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384
Novel • Fiction
Mexico • 1920s
2019
Adult
15+ years
Gods of Jade and Shadow by Silvia Moreno-Garcia is a fantasy novel set in 1920s Mexico, intertwined with Mayan mythology. It follows Casiopea Tun, an 18-year-old girl who discovers the bones of Hun-Kamé, the Mayan God of Death, and inadvertently resurrects him. Together, they embark on a journey to reclaim his throne in the Underworld, experiencing challenges, growing closer, and confronting Hun-Kamé's mortal brother, Vucub-Kamé.
Adventurous
Fantastical
Mysterious
Bittersweet
Emotional
76,132 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Silvia Moreno-Garcia's Gods of Jade and Shadow is lauded for its rich folklore, compelling characters, and enchanting prose. Critics highlight the vivid depiction of 1920s Mexico, though some note occasional pacing issues. Its blend of myth and history captivates many, making it a unique and memorable narrative despite minor structural flaws.
Readers who cherish mythological retellings entwined with historical contexts will relish Gods of Jade and Shadow by Silvia Moreno-Garcia. Fans of Neil Gaiman's American Gods and Madeline Miller's Circe are likely to find the blend of fantasy and Mexican folklore captivating and immersive.
76,132 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Hun-Kamé
Hun-Kamé is the Lord of Xibalba, the kingdom of the Underworld, and serves as the fairy-tale archetypal handsome prince in *Gods of Jade and Shadow*. His character is marked by arrogance due to his power and immortality, but his relationship with Casiopea transforms him, giving him a perspective on humanity and love. He does not fit the traditional prince role as he is freed by Casiopea and must work with her to achieve their goals.
Vucub-Kamé
Vucub-Kamé is the antagonist of *Gods of Jade and Shadow*, characterized as a selfish creature with a tendency for vengeance. He entraps his brother Hun-Kamé, setting the story's main conflict. As Hun-Kamé’s narrative double, Vucub-Kamé represents resistance to change and holds onto old, brutal traditions. His character explores themes of power and survival.
Martín Leyva
Martín Leyva is Casiopea’s cousin and an antagonist in *Gods of Jade and Shadow*. He embodies the patriarchal system and wields power over Casiopea due to societal norms rather than personal merit. His journey illustrates the dismantling of perceived power as he confronts his lack of authentic strength and courage.
Loray
Loray is a demon featured in *Gods of Jade and Shadow*, residing in Mérida with a guise of a polished upper-class individual. He represents self-interest, showing willingness to switch allegiances based on outcomes. Loray’s ambiguous morality contrasts with Casiopea’s strong ethical stance.
Xtabay
Xtabay is a figure from Mayan mythology present in *Gods of Jade and Shadow*. She is a demon who leaves her forest home at Vucub-Kamé’s request, guarding one of Hun-Kamé’s pieces. Her selective memory highlights themes of identity and transformation, focusing on the aspects of herself she chooses to retain.
Cirilo Leyva
Cirilo Leyva, Casiopea’s grandfather, serves as a secondary antagonist in *Gods of Jade and Shadow*. Described as cruel and oppressive, his actions are driven by a sense of inadequacy. He collaborates with Vucub-Kamé in hopes of securing a better life for himself, highlighting themes of desperation and ambition.
Aníbal Zavala
Aníbal Zavala is a sorcerer aiding Vucub-Kamé in *Gods of Jade and Shadow*. His character symbolizes loyalty and the spread of false information. Enthralled by Vucub-Kamé’s power, Zavala supports actions that could have detrimental effects, illustrating how allegiance can blind one to consequences.
Casiopea’s Parents
In *Gods of Jade and Shadow*, Casiopea’s father and mother symbolize opposing influences on her identity. Her father, who died before the story begins, is romanticized by Casiopea as a symbol of defiance, while her mother represents the oppressive circumstances Casiopea aims to escape from. These influences shape her journey toward freedom.
384
Novel • Fiction
Mexico • 1920s
2019
Adult
15+ years
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