Gods of Jade and Shadow

Set against the vibrant backdrop of 1920s Mexico during the Jazz Age, Silvia Moreno-Garcia's "Gods of Jade and Shadow" introduces Casiopea Tun, a young woman trapped by her humble circumstances and the demands of her wealthy grandfather. Daydreaming of a life beyond her dusty Yucatán town, Casiopea's fate takes a dramatic turn when she discovers a mysterious wooden box. Upon opening it, she accidentally frees Hun-Kamé, the Mayan god of death, whose fractured spirit needs her aid to reclaim his throne from his treacherous brother. Bound by a magical curse that links their lives, Casiopea embarks on a perilous cross-country odyssey. From the lush jungles to the bustling streets of Mexico City and the terrifying depths of the Mayan underworld, she must navigate ancient magic, dangerous rivals, and her own burgeoning independence. This enchanting, dark fairy tale weaves Mexican folklore, historical detail, and a touch of slow-burn romance into a captivating journey of self-discovery and destiny.