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This fantasy adventure based on a popular webcomic introduces a mythical world of gods and monsters overlaid on the historical backdrop of the Triple Alliance in the final days of pre-Columbian Mesoamerica.

The book opens on a forbidden ritual performed under cover of darkness, as orbs of light rise and summon a Child of Darkness against the backdrop of the first days of colonial expansion in Mesoamerica and reign of the Triple Alliance between Tenochtitlan, Tetzcoco, and Tlacopan. Meanwhile, Itzcacalotl, an ambitious, 17-year-old would-be Mexica warrior, wanders from his group into the jungle where a murder of crows brings magical transformation. Elsewhere, 15-year-old Donaji prepares to leave her Zapotec home on a quest to find her long-lost father with help from a quechquemitl, a poncholike garment, imbued with the spirit of a god. A wrong turn puts Donaji in Itzcacalotl’s way, and they are able to join forces on the quest to find Donaji’s father, though the path is fraught with supernatural dangers. But how the dark creature from the ritual ties into their journey remains shrouded. Alert readers will know that Spanish invaders lie on the horizon, leaving them eager for the next installment. Graphic novel fans will appreciate how the colorful, manga-inspired illustrations dramatically bring the Mesoamerican setting to life, and history buffs will enjoy the footnote factoids sprinkled throughout.

An enticing, fast-paced series opener.