Ratings: 5 Stars
Genre: Historical Fiction
ASIN: B00LXQUGKE
File Size: 1526 KB
ISBN-10: 1499382375
ISBN-13: 978- 1499382372
Pages: 306

For me, the first chapter of Blood of Toma by Lauren Lee Merewether was hard to read because of the strange indigenous names in ancient Mexico. I am so glad that I continued to read this amazing story. It is well written, has in-depth character development, and a strong female protagonist.

The High Priestess Tomatzin (Toma) witnesses betrayal, the killing for her father, captivity by men she believes are the silver gods, one of which (Arrio) she falls in love with, the manipulation by a man she called uncle, the conflicts between her culture and the Conquistadores, the power struggle between the three large cities of ancient Mexico.

Toma learns the language of the Conquistadores and understands that in the quest for gold the Spaniards are men who use the native wars to capture more gold and eliminate the natives.

Toma must choose between helping her people, her newfound love, and the desire to revenge her father’s death. What will she do?

Ms. Merewether’s talent lies in painting vivid scenes. I could visualize the Mexican jungle, the indigenous cities with all the gold and gems, and the adornments of Toma as the goddess Coatlicue.

If you like reading about ancient cultures, coming of age, identity struggle, love, and revenge, then this is a book you won’t want to miss. I highly recommend Blook of Toma.