The Seventh Sun - ⭐️⭐️⭐️

-

I have to admit, I was brought in by all the Aztec and Mayan richness that this debut novel exuded. And although there were parts I adored (the culture, the mythology, the writing) there were also parts I did not enjoy as much (the characters, the plot for about 3/4’s). However I did appreciate the pros more than the cons.

I am always fascinated with a book so full of mythology and teachings that I get swept up in all that extravagant lore, Lani does this so very well which makes The Seventh Sun for the most part a joy to read. However, apart from Ahkin, my love for the characters wears a little thin. I found the first half to be monotonous and predictable whereas the second half is where the plot truly grows and I think displays Lani’s imagination in the best way.

Overall it was an enjoyable read and I shall certainly be getting myself a physical copy when this book is released. I love how Lani has delved into this Aztec mythology with a fantastical twist, it is certainly something for a debut novel and totally worth a read.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the e-arc of this highly anticipated and original book!

I first saw THE SEVENTH SUN on Instagram reposted by another Blackstone author. I am a huge follower of this publishing company because they churn out some really unique stories. This book was no different.

When the young prince is declared king after his parent's death, he immediately sends out word to find a bride for he cannot officially be crowned without a queen by his side. Enter Mayana, daughter of a lord. She's sent to the palace to compete with other girls to win the prince's heart. But this isn't a SELECTION type contest. This is gritty and violent and Mayana thinks she doesn't have the heart for it but soon realizes that she may have a shot, lies to the prince and carries on a love affair with him. This doesn't bode well with the other girls and others within the court alike. Corruption wriggles underfoot like a snake and Mayana has to figure out where her loyalties lie.

I loved the Mayan history and mythology in this book. It is something we don't see too often. Mayana was a heroine to root for. The writing was excellent and kept me engaged.

A few things I didn't like was that I wanted more on the other girls. They were introduced and then fell into the background. I wanted more girl power, perhaps. Another thing was almost instant-love. I understand authors only have a certain number of pages to get their point across but this one seemed oh so quick. These things were minor though and did not affect my rating too much.

Overall, I liked this book and I will read the second for sure. I had a great time reading it and that is what matters most to me.

Recommended: Yes!
For a fantastic Mayan-esque fantasy, for a ripe and unique world of belief and gods, for anyone who wants to imagine more about the world in the movie The Road to El Dorado

Thoughts:
I have noticed that I don't read much with Central or South American styles or themes to it. However, The Road to El Dorado is one of my favorite movies, and I couldn't help but be reminded of that fact as I was reading descriptions of huge towering golden temples with countless steps, of lush jungles where panthers stalk, and of blood sacrifices that allow the demigods to wield incredible magic. And so, perhaps it's not that surprising that I somewhat fell in love with this world. 😍

Complex belief systems, especially when coupled with gods and myths, always suck me in. I loved learning the lore of this world, and the absolutely gorgeous setting didn't hurt either! I wanted to know more about the other princesses, particularly the storm princess, as several hints were dropped but never built upon.

The story felt a bit rushed to me around the middle. Mayana being chosen after a day and a half, with two interactions directly with Ahkin that consisted of him coming to spy on her while she's swimming naked, and him coming to make out with her and try to get her naked again. That's a bit of a generalization, but honestly the romance and draw between them felt very weak and unconvincing. THAT IS, until we got to the last few chapters and learned some very important details. Honestly the way it was all tied together towards the end resolved most of the issues I had been having, because it was so well done and so EXCITING. I can't wait to read the next one, but unfortunately, I'll have to.

Some questions for the author:
- Does menstrual blood count for the sacrifices? Are the women just mad powerful for a week each month? Or is that just discreetly not a thing for these women?

- Do they have any blood-based diseases? Because those people were definitely sharing knives and I'm thinking there's no way that's sterile.

Yes… this is what I think about.

Thanks to NetGalley and Blackstone Publishing for a free advanced copy in exchange for an honest review!

This book has an unique supernatural world that I enjoyed reading about. A well-plotted and interesting story moves along the action and makes it a fast read you won't want to put down.

This book was beautiful. I felt for the main characters and I was rooting for them the entire time. I also love how the world was inspired by the Aztec and Mayan traditions. It was a very enjoyable read.

This was the perfect mix between The Selection and ancient Aztec/Maya/Inca mythology. I loved it from the beginning to the end, with one slight exception.

We have Prince Ahkin, whose father, the emperor of the Chicome has just died unexpectedly, and who must now become emperor himself, choose a bride among several royal daughters and deal with the empire's looming war. On the other side, we have Mayana (I LOVE that name !), one of the royal daughters sent to Prince Ahkin, capable of mastering water and possessing quite a strong mind.

Mayana must take part in several trials to hope to become the Chicome's next empress. If she fails, she dies.
Among all that, some political plots blossom , the enemies of the empire taking advantage of the death of the emperor.

The whole book is set in an ancient Aztec etc... like world. I don't think I have read one before, and what a shame it is. I really loved that setting, and even though I'm sure all the traditions depicted in the book are not all real, it was like diving in a parallel ancient world reminding me a lot of Tomb Raider.

All in all, the trials for a prince trope reminded me of The Selection series by Kiera Cass, and I had loved that specific trope. Mayana was really a loveable character, and I thought she handled the competition really well. Of course, competition means competitors. And if there are competitors, there's jealousy, and where there's jealousy, there's a mean girl.

Yes, it was probably expected with that trope, but I was disappointed by how cliché this was. We have that one girl who really dislikes Mayana because she's great, and who does everything in her power to put Mayana in tricky positions. That was just overdone in my opinion.

However, the cliché aspect of things is the only thing I disliked about the book. My guilty pleasure is reading about royalty falling in love, so I awwww-ed while reading all the cute moments between Ahkin and Mayana (which is a lot in the book) so I was more than happy with the book.

The rythm of the story flowed nicely, nothing was rushed, and it introduced quite smoothly a deeper plot for the following book. I don't know how many sequels there will be, but I know I'll probably make sure to read them. I definitely want more of Ahkin and Mayana, and the cliffhanger the book leaves us with is so gripping I can't do anything else than wait impatiently for the next book !

Beautifully written, designed and executed book. The synopsis drew me in immediately and the cultural aspects kept pushing the envelope with world building. There was one certain trope that kept it from being a 5 star read for me but loved this book!!! Thankyou so much for approving me to review it!! Exciting, adventurous and romantic book. Looking forward fo getting a hard copy as well.

In this engaging story, every single detail is a delicious addition to a unique plot. Though full of nostalgia, this book offers an original story about a strong princess. I was hooked very early on as I read about a setting that was vivid and came enticingly to life with its beautiful cultural descriptions. The world that is built by Forbes is exceptional and you are sure to find yourself immediately immersed in the world as you follow characters throughout a wonderful adventure. The appeal in this story is parallel to the magic created by the mythological worlds of Percy Jackson and other creatures. I believe this book was inspired by Aztec and Mayan beliefs, which are naturally interesting and fantasy driven. This story is sure to be an enjoyable read that will appeal to a wide variety of readers sure to find it easy to devour upon first beginning to read.

Six daughters vie to become Empress of the Chicome people in a competition only one will survive. Rich in imagination and romance, and based on the legends and history of the Aztec and Maya people,
The emperor of Chicome has died, leaving his son Ahkin to take over as emperor and to raise the sun each day. Through studying the skies and the sun setting earlier and earlier each day, hints of chaos looming over his nation. He also cannot fully inherit the title of emperor until he chooses a noble wife, one is of descendant of one gods who are continually worshiped for the sacrifices to keep the Chicome people alive.
Mayana is one of six noble daughters presented to him as a possible wife. Those who are not chosen will be sacrificed to the gods. Mayana, is descended from the water goddess, she must prove her worth, before Ahkin will except her hand in marriage. Mayana, harbors a secret, her beliefs differs from that of the people.Prince Ahkin, is struggling under the weight of the position he has been thrust into. Even though his royal blood controls the power of the sun, he’s now responsible for the lives of all the Chicome people. And despite all Ahkin’s efforts, the sun is fading–and the end of the world may be at hand.
Loved the twists and turns, the setting, and the ending leaves me wanting book 2 now!

This book was received as an ARC from Blackstone Publishing in exchange for an honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own.

I have never read a book so intense and to categorized it as a historic fairy tale and be violently intense. The best way to describe this book as if Red Queen and Kingdom of Ash meshed together in the Aztec/Mayan times and all the sisters had to win the heart of the king or else they die. I was screaming with excitement due to complete shock and I could not put this book down because I have never felt this intense of an experience like I ever had before. All of my internal organs froze with excitement and I almost lost my breath because I could not get enough of this book. This book is different from the rest and I know our teen book club will love it and go crazy for it.

We will consider adding this title to our YA collection at our library. That is why we give this book 5 stars.

The Seventh Sun sounds amazing. I'm really excited to read it at a later date. Hopefully before publication. 🤞 I've tried starting it a few times lately, and it's just a bit 'much' for right now. It's heavy on the Fantasy and the world-building and I while I love that at times, I'm not in the headspace for it currently.

*Thank you so much to Blackstone Publishing for approving me for this title. Thank you for your and your consideration.*

Brilliant fantasy based on Mayan/ Aztec mythology and history. I really enjoyed this fast paced and intriguing tale, set in a well imagined world with an engaging MC. Not a massive fan of the romance but it didn’t bother me as much as insta love has done in other books in the genre. This is definitely a bit different. Highly recommend.

There have been 6 apocalypses, 6 suns that have died and were brought back alive by sacrifice of the gods. The seventh sun has been in the sky for hundreds of years, but the days grow shorter... But that might be the least of prince Ahkin’s worries, as his father has suddenly passed away and his mother joined him, and he is crowned emperor. And the emperor must have a wife... 6 princesses, all descendants of one specific god, are summoned, and one will become the empress, the other six will be sacrificed in a ritual to bless the marriage.

I have to say, I know this book deals with sacrifice as it’s based on the Mayan/South American culture, and I wasn’t keen on that aspect. The book starts rather unpleasant with the death of the emperor, but mostly the ritual that his wife must join him and commit suicide, and it was described quite graphic, and tbh I wanted to put the book down at that point because it was horrific, and as it was a bit brushed over I assumed it was gonna get worse. But as it was an ARC, I read on and I do not regret that.

I absolutely love that this is such a different culture! It’s a fresh breath of air and the legend and worldbuilding spoke to me. The magic system is very intruiging, as you need to shed blood to be able to perform magic, and it can only be done when you’re a descendant of a god (there’s light, water, fire, wind, animals and plants). The religion is also very elaborate and full of rules that help give people stability (but at what cost?). The golden city is described so inspired I really wanted to see it for real... AND THAT PLOTTWIST. I definitely didn’t see it coming.

It also was quite an addictive read, partly because it’s such a different setting, partly because of the writing style that you just keep turning pages. I even tried to read during cooking, which is not recommended. There is so much going on, so much tension and interesting side characters and impeding doom... and I really felt for all the 6 princesses. It’s kinda the Bachelor in Hunger Games style, all knew only the victor would live. They all had different coping mechanisms, and it was heartbreaking, yet I would have liked to see it being explored more. When you know you’ll live two weeks tops of course you want to win, but I think there would be more bonding and less cattiness tbh. And resentment to the prince, I know I would silently hate him surely, at least at the beginning, but Mayana, the MC, takes one look at him and is swooned despite her 5/6th chance of a death sentence going on.

That is one of the bigger issues I have with this book: instalove. Sure, there isn’t room for more development because of the time frame, but even so they fell in love in a day. I wished we’d had more conversations, and I did like when everyone around them eyerolled at their instalove, as I eyerolled along. But it’s a really sweet romance. And Ahkin is a catch, he’s introverted and intelligent, but his introspective character is amazing and when he opens up he becomes a whole other person instead the person he’s supposed to be - which I loved to see. He’s trying so hard to do the right thing but it doesn’t always work that way.

The other issue I have is of course the sacrifices. I am with Mayana on this one, because it made me nauseous. So many animal sacrifices, it was too much for me, especially one special case that left me crying.

Ok, back to what I love. Mayana. She’s an empath and she feels so many things, and I loved being inside her head. She has love for anyone, and proofs that you don’t need to be a fighter to be a badass woman (though she definitely can be that too, if need arises, she’s a hufflepuff at heart). It’s always great to read about a strong woman with clear convictions that go against society, and still stands strong and hands out kindness to everyone, that’s the kind of strength I like and am drawn to.

The antagonist was not really an antagonist to me as she tries to save her own skin desperately, though she does have a mean streak. I’m not a fan of the catfight trope (for lack of a better word), and I think the antagonist was described too many times as having animalistic traits, it was a bit too much. Plus animals are cute.

Sooo this review is a bit of a roller coaster. There were some issues for me, but overall I really, really enjoyed this fast and addictive read. If I need to compare it, I think this is a bit like the Selection, but with higher stakes and more feels. And an ending that’ll make you wish for book 2 immediately..

Ok so I happen to love prehistoric fiction and fantasy. Those are me sweet spots and this novel hit both of them with beautiful imagery to boot. It did get a little to YA romancy for me but I’m old so... I think the kids are going to love it though. 15-year-old me probably would have reread this a thousand times.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for the free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. My opinion was not affected by the free book.

At first I wasn't considering this book, but I figured why not try it, and I'm glad I sent in the request. Honestly, it does tick a lot of familiar boxes in the fantasy/alternate history category, but I like that it focused on a culture that isn't often explored. I don't know a lot about Aztec/Maya beliefs and culture, but I could feel its influence all over this book. I'll talk about this more when I get into what I liked, since I leave the positives to later.

One of the big negatives in this book is character inconsistency. Particularly with the prince. In the beginning, characters comment about how serious-minded he is, how dour and grim, how logical. Yet he almost never acts that way. He's constantly teasing and playing with his sister or lamenting over how he lost that playful teasing with his friend, acting with his heart around Mayana and being very physical with her, and being so naively trusting he instantly believes someone when they say it's the will of the gods. Other characters act pretty inconsistent too, like Coatl being inappropriate and teasing to Mayana and then all of a sudden shifty and closed off. While there is a reason for this, it feels odd why he would act teasing in that first scene only to change behaviors a scene later. Also, why is Mayana the only princess that is being targeted and bullied? Seems like her friend Yemania at least would be another target, but it's only ever Mayana.

Do I even really need to talk about the romance in this? It's yet another case of telling us rather than showing, of these two clearly just in lust with each other with little snippets of understanding. They don't talk much about anything but decide they're falling in love because they're both attractive, I guess. Multiple POV's can either be a strength or weakness and in this case I think it could've been a strength, because all of the other princesses were interesting and I would've loved getting their perspectives and having their characters fleshed out more. It might've helped convince me Mayana was the best choice, who knows. And then of course we have a "liar reveal" plot that drags on where I wanted to roll my eyes and bang my head against something.

I think what I liked most about this book was the examination of religious ritual, and how men trying to control their fates can come in opposition to the divine. There's question on the necessity of sacrifice and suffering and how a person can truly honor the gods. True these are fictional gods, but I saw a lot of parallels with real religions and spiritual beliefs. I don't see that very often in YA, especially with the main character still believing in and loving the gods. I also found it really interesting that everyone saw Mayana's aversion to animal sacrifice as selfish, heretical, and weak. Stuff like this is perfect for book club discussion.

I also liked the other princesses, for what we got to see if them. It's a shame more isn't done, because all of their stories seem super interesting. I don't hold out much hope of them being fleshed out in future sequels, but maybe if this series gets popular enough the author will write a novella for them or something.

Overall, this was a solid start. I like the world and some of the ideas explored here. I am definitely going to read the sequel when it comes out to see where the story goes from here.

**Disclaimer: I was given a free e-book in exchange for an honest review from NetGalley.**

Title The Seventh Sun

Author Lani Forbes

Release Date February 18, 2020

Description from Amazon

Thrust into leadership upon the death of his emperor father, young Prince Ahkin feels completely unready for his new position. Though his royal blood controls the power of the sun, he’s now responsible for the lives of all the Chicome people. And despite all Ahkin’s efforts, the sun is fading–and the end of the world may be at hand.

For Mayana, the only daughter of the Chicome family whose blood controls the power of water, the old emperor’s death may mean that she is next. Prince Ahkin must be married before he can ascend the throne, and Mayana is one of six noble daughters presented to him as a possible wife. Those who are not chosen will be sacrificed to the gods.

Only one girl can become Ahkin’s bride. Mayana and Ahkin feel an immediate connection, but the gods themselves may be against them. Both recognize that the ancient rites of blood that keep the gods appeased may be harming the Chicome more than they help. As a bloodred comet and the fading sun bring a growing sense of dread, only two young people may hope to change their world.

Initial Thoughts

I saw this book on GoodReads a while back while browsing 2020 YA releases and it sounded so cool. I studied a lot of Meso-American history throughout my many years studying Spanish and American history and I have always loved it. (I was also always terrible at pronouncing the names.) I applied for this book a few weeks ago and was surprised to see that it was just sitting in my NetGalley queue the other day. (I think I accidentally turned off my email alerts for new books.) Despite the fact that I have several other titles already in my queue, I had to start this one right away.

Some Things I Liked

History and culture. I love that this is a fictionalized version of Meso-American history. I haven’t read too much about it in fantasy books. I loved this unique take on the gods, rituals, and culture of a people that I have studied a decent amount about from a historical point of view.
Animals. I loved that one of the main characters was driven by her love of animals throughout the story. I feel like YA and fantasy books often forget about animals. Someone is riding a horse in one scene, and then it’s just gone, forgotten about and never to return to the story. This book was so thoughtful about the role of animals and I loved the way everything came full circle in the end.
Banter and sass. This story had all of the wit and phenomenal conversations that I would expect from one of my recency romance / murder mysteries. I loved the banter between Ahkin and Mayana and even Mayana’s exchanges with Yemenia were fun. Mayana was a witty and fun character to read about and I can’t wait to see more of her story.

Series Value

This book ends on a bit of a cliffhanger. But, despite what I usually say about hating cliffhangers, I like the direction this took. The first arc of the story is over and we’re starting something new. I liked the openness of the ending in that we can now still have two storylines. I am interested to see new characters introduced on one front and to see the way the remaining characters interact in the other.

Final Thoughts

I really enjoyed this book. I read it relatively quickly (in under a week) and would definitely both purchase a finished copy for myself and recommend it to a friend. This is a series I’d stick with and I think there is a ton of potential here.

Lastly, I just need to point out that I am all about those Dante’s Inferno vibes. I can’t wait to see where that storyline goes.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Recommendations for Further Reading

Gods of Jade and Sorrow by Silvia Moreno-Garcia – while the time settings are different between these books, both stories focus on Meso-American culture and are about the struggles between gods and mortals.
The Selection by Kiera Cass – one of the main elements of this book is that Prince Ahkin has to choose an empress from one of six eligible princesses. If that part of the story appealed to you, definitely check out The Selection series by Kiera Cass.
Shadow of the Fox by Julie Kagawa – if you liked the secrets that Mayana kept and the journey to save the world from demons elements of The Seventh Sun check out this series by Julie Kagawa. Book three is coming out in March 2020.

The Seventh Sun was an unique and enjoyable reading based on Maya and Aztec mythology. In fact, what I loved most was the worldbuilding (the author did a lot of research), which was fascinating and very detailed. I also adored the story in general and there were some unexpected twists I didn't see coming. The only thing I didn't like very much was the romance, too insta-lovey. They barely knew each other and in two weeks they already declared themselves. Too rushed for my liking. But if you love this kind of romance, then you're going to fully love it because, in the end, the book was worth reading!

I'd like to start by saying that I love that this book is inspired by Aztec/Mayan beliefs; it was a refreshing take on typical YA fantasy stories. However, as this is not material I am incredibly familiar with, I did find some of this book challenging to engage with and understand. I found myself googling things often to make sure I wasn't missing references that might be important later in the story. The writing of this was nice; I liked the characters. The bridal selection and tests reminded me vaguely of The Selection and other stories, particularly since there was the catty girl trope included. The defiance between the two girls was never fully explained, but was left mostly up to reader and character interpretations. Overall, this was a unique read for the genre.

This book kept me interesting in the plot throughout the entire thing. I really enjoyed this book and will keep an eye out for this authors books in the future. I will be recommend this book to my friends and purchasing it for my library.