The Aztec people have been conquered and a bloody revolt of the Indians put down. The former Aztec Empire is now a colony called New Spain in which the Indians are enslaved to great estates that are actually feudal domains. The Spanish lords rule as kings, treating Indian men as work animals and Indian women as their personal property. In this colourful and exciting era of swords and cloaks, upheaval and revolution, a young beggar boy, in whose blood runs that of both Spanish and Aztec royalty, must claim his birthright. From the torrid streets of the City of the Dead along the Veracruz Coast to the ageless glory of Seville in Old Spain, Cristo the Bastard connives, fights, and loves as he seeks the truthwithout knowing that he will be the founder of a proud new people. As we follow the loves and adventures of Cristo and experience the colorful splendor and barbarism of the era, a vanished culture is brought to life in all its magnificence.
This comes from someone who historically has a tough time finishing books, and when I do, it often takes a good month to finish something of this length. My first introduction to Jennings was through, "Aztec", and I thought that was the best book I had ever read. I also read, "Aztec Autumn", and, while I thought it was a great book too, it didn't have me as hooked as the first. I was surprised and disappointed to read that this book, "Aztec Blood", was a colaboration, but I'm so glad I didn't let it stop me from reading it because the story was a fabulous adventure. Yes, it became predictable at some points, but the friendship formed between the two Knights Errant, Cristo and Mateo, kept me constantly entertained. The ties to Cervantes', "Don Quixote", were extremely amusing. More of a storyline versus the great history of the first two books, but a very entertaining storyline indeed. A little unbelievable at times? Yes, but I think that was the intent when telling a tale of great knights! I finished it in less than a week - new record for me!
Nearly as good as Aztec, Just as enjoyable
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 23 years ago
This is a great read. It is exciting and enjoyable. To me, it seems true to the style of the late Mr. Jennings. I read Aztec weeks ago, and felt compelled to see what happened next. I read the 2nd book, Aztec Autumn, and I thought it wasn't nearly as good as the 1st. The 3rd (and, I assume, final) installment makes up for the less interesting 2nd novel. I highly recommend this book. Even if you don't read the 1st two, this one can stand on it's own. Read it!
Aztec Blood captured my attention right away.
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 23 years ago
Aztec Blood captured my attention right away. It held my interest from beginning to end. Adventure: Keeps a person thinking what is going to happen to Cristo next.Description: Fantastic. From the flicking candle in the Viceroy's dungeon cell. To a magician he witnessed in the moonlight. This book leaves the reader feeling as though they have actually witnessed the events.If I didn't know better I would think Gary Jennings was still alive and writing novels. Congratulations to the writer who picked up where Jennings left off. Aztec Blood: A great book to read.
The early history of Mexico comes alive
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 23 years ago
There seems to be a trend in book publishing these days in which unfinished manuscripts by deceased, well-known authors are finished by others and then published under the famous name. I've read several of these types of books, with varying degrees of interest. This last book from Gary Jennings, and another, unknown writer, is definitely one of the better collaborations. It captures extremely well the essense of Mr. Jennings' writing, so that there is a terrifice story line, and action aplenty! The background and history is given as well as can be done without diverting attention from the tale, and the knowledge inserted is, for the most part, not intrusive. I do wonder, however, what the finished product would have been like had Mr. Jennings managed to complete it all on his own. Make no mistake, though, I really liked the book, and am sorry that no others will be forthcoming from Mr. Jennings. His death is a loss to all of his fans, among which I number myself.
A great finish to the "Aztec" books
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 23 years ago
This is definitely a "swashbuckling" adventure! I loved it as much as the first book Aztec.Some readers have been turned off by the fact that Gary Jennings didn't actually write this book. It is kind of obvious at times, too. But, who cares! I loved the first two books and could read twenty more about the "One World". I don't care if Harry Potter writes a new Aztec book. If it's good fun, it's good fun. Just read it!
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