Mariely Lares’ Sun of Blood and Ruin offers a colorful jaunt through sixteenth-century New Spain, where history and magic dance together in a high-stakes game of identity and rebellion. Leonora de las Casas Tlazohtzin, a noblewoman by day and a masked vigilante named Pantera by night, takes center stage as she fights Spanish oppression with a dash of magical flair.

The novel opens with a prophecy twist that puts the 2012 doomsday hype to shame, blending Zorro-style heroics with a fresh, gender-bent twist. Lares’ world-building is so detailed, you might feel like you’ve been magically transported to the era, minus the risk of conquistador encounters.

Leonora’s internal struggle between societal expectations and personal beliefs makes her a standout character. Her looming prophecy of an early death in battle adds a layer of tension as she debates whether to unmask herself or continue her covert crusade. The supporting cast is well-rounded, bringing additional depth and flavor to the story.

While Lares’ prose is smooth and engaging, the novel occasionally stumbles when the dual storylines, the Spanish conquest and the Mesoamerican prophecy, collide. Despite these minor disruptions, the individual threads are compelling and enrich the overall narrative.

One of the novel’s notable achievements is its challenge to the traditional Eurocentric narrative of the Aztec Empire’s fall. Lares offers a fresh perspective that highlights indigenous resistance and resilience, providing a welcome change from the usual historical accounts.

The "enemies to lovers" subplot adds an extra twist of tension, giving Leonora’s journey an added layer of complexity.

In summary, Sun of Blood and Ruin is a well-crafted blend of historical fiction, fantasy, and romance. While it may not linger long in your memory, Mariely Lares delivers an engaging and thought-provoking read that’s worth experiencing, even if it doesn’t leave a lasting impression.