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A review by ashlightgrayson
Gods of Jade and Shadow by Silvia Moreno-Garcia
adventurous
emotional
medium-paced
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
This was my first time reading something by Moreno-García and it was a great choice. The book transports you to early 20th century Mexico and has incredibly immersive Mayan mythology that she makes her own. "Machismo" culture (present even today in Latinx culture) is a consistent theme in the book. We see as the main character, Cassiopea, despite being born in a culture that restricts women 's roles and place in society in many way, is able to overcome the expectations society sets for her. She is a strong, rebellious, and interesting female character that plays a key role in driving the events of the plot. She consistently serves as a tool that challenges the world view of other characters and therefore makes the other characters question their decisions and even influences them. She seems to be a representation of how women can have power and influence even in a society where they are looked down upon by others. This book has an ending that really leaves you pensive, and those are my favorite kinds of endings. The stakes were high in the story from beginning to end which really helped keep me engaged as well. I can't wait to pick up another book by this author, but if you haven't yet, this is a great place to start.