WOVEN IN MOONLIGHT is one of my most anticipated 2020 reads. The first two chapters expertly set the scene where a political coup has forced the previously ruling Illustrians into exile and a precarious situation. The Illustrians are on the brink of starvation and face constant threats from the Llacasans. Ximena is the surviving condesa's (ruler) decoy and worries about her people.
I really love the world-building Ibañez does in just 25 pages! We learn that the Illustrians have magical gifts centered around La Luna (the moon). Our protagonist Ximena can weave using moonlight to create moondust which has similar properties to melatonin. The stakes are raised considerably when the Llacasan ruler demands the hand of the condesa. It seems like the plot is headed towards a politically-arranged marriage. My only complaint is that the book isn't out yet!
I love that Ibañez brings in elements from Latinx culture - the Spanish language, weaving, foods, and more. The cover, which she illustrated, is beautiful and this excerpt has made me even more excited to read the book.
I really love the world-building Ibañez does in just 25 pages! We learn that the Illustrians have magical gifts centered around La Luna (the moon). Our protagonist Ximena can weave using moonlight to create moondust which has similar properties to melatonin. The stakes are raised considerably when the Llacasan ruler demands the hand of the condesa. It seems like the plot is headed towards a politically-arranged marriage. My only complaint is that the book isn't out yet!
I love that Ibañez brings in elements from Latinx culture - the Spanish language, weaving, foods, and more. The cover, which she illustrated, is beautiful and this excerpt has made me even more excited to read the book.