True Rating: 4.5/5
I loved this book. It blends history and fantasy together to create this incredible read.
Ximena Rojas has been the real Condesa's decoy since she was 8 years old. She and those in her keep, are Illustrians, removed from power when the Llacsan tribe revolted and gained control of the land. The new Llacsan King Atoc wants to solidify his power by marrying the Illustrian heiress, the Condesa. It is then Ximena's duty to travel to the palace and try to do what she can to overthrow Atoc, all while keeping her real identity secret.
Reasons I loved this book:
1. The history!
Bolivian history is not my forté. But I knew enough going into this story to see the parallels. Ibañez did a fabulous job of adding fantasy elements and bringing this story to life.
2. The magical aspects!
The Illustrian's and Llacsan's have special gifts that manifest in different ways. Ximena has the power to weave using moonlight. The real Condesa can read the constellations to predict the future. King Atoc has the power to create earthquakes. It makes for a very entertaining read.
3. The writing!
Lots of spanish words sprinkled around! Ahhh my heart! They blended seamlessly with this beautiful book. Plus all the traditional food mentioned! Love, love, love. Way to bring an underepresented culture in literature forward!!!
4. The cover!
It's gorgeous! And designed by the author herself. Each element depicted actually relates to the story!
In conclusion, I hope there's a sequel because I absolutely loved this book! I need more!!!
I loved this book. It blends history and fantasy together to create this incredible read.
Ximena Rojas has been the real Condesa's decoy since she was 8 years old. She and those in her keep, are Illustrians, removed from power when the Llacsan tribe revolted and gained control of the land. The new Llacsan King Atoc wants to solidify his power by marrying the Illustrian heiress, the Condesa. It is then Ximena's duty to travel to the palace and try to do what she can to overthrow Atoc, all while keeping her real identity secret.
Reasons I loved this book:
1. The history!
Bolivian history is not my forté. But I knew enough going into this story to see the parallels. Ibañez did a fabulous job of adding fantasy elements and bringing this story to life.
2. The magical aspects!
The Illustrian's and Llacsan's have special gifts that manifest in different ways. Ximena has the power to weave using moonlight. The real Condesa can read the constellations to predict the future. King Atoc has the power to create earthquakes. It makes for a very entertaining read.
3. The writing!
Lots of spanish words sprinkled around! Ahhh my heart! They blended seamlessly with this beautiful book. Plus all the traditional food mentioned! Love, love, love. Way to bring an underepresented culture in literature forward!!!
4. The cover!
It's gorgeous! And designed by the author herself. Each element depicted actually relates to the story!
In conclusion, I hope there's a sequel because I absolutely loved this book! I need more!!!