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The Rise of the Aztecs #2
Crossing Worlds
With the crushing defeat resulting in the conquest of the beautiful Texcoco, fleeing into the Highlands seemed like their only option.
Before giving it much thought, Kuini takes his highborn Acolhua friend, the heir to Texcoco throne, to his homeland, to hide in the safety of the mountains, while counting on the help of his people.
But the enmity between the two nations goes back generations, and while both youths are ready to face the consequences of their deed, neither are prepared for the way Kuini’s family gets into trouble on account of them.
Before giving it much thought, Kuini takes his highborn Acolhua friend, the heir to Texcoco throne, to his homeland, to hide in the safety of the mountains, while counting on the help of his people.
But the enmity between the two nations goes back generations, and while both youths are ready to face the consequences of their deed, neither are prepared for the way Kuini’s family gets into trouble on account of them.
200 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 2, 2012
31 people are currently reading
300 people want to read
About the author
Zoe Saadia
32 books332 followersZoe Saadia is the author of several novels of pre-Columbian Americas. From the architects of the Aztec Empire to the founders of the Iroquois Great League, from the towering pyramids of the Mexican Valley to the longhouses of the Great Lakes, her novels bring long-forgotten history, cultures and people to life, tracing pivotal events that brought about the greatness of North and Mesoamerica.
Having researched various pre-contact cultures of this continent for more than a decade, she is convinced that it's a shame that such a large part of history was completely overlooked, by historical fiction most of all. Both Americas had an extremely rich, diverse, fascinating history long before this continent came in contact with the rest of the world.
So her professional motto is set. America has not been 'discovered', not yet. Maybe not ever :-)
Having researched various pre-contact cultures of this continent for more than a decade, she is convinced that it's a shame that such a large part of history was completely overlooked, by historical fiction most of all. Both Americas had an extremely rich, diverse, fascinating history long before this continent came in contact with the rest of the world.
So her professional motto is set. America has not been 'discovered', not yet. Maybe not ever :-)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
June 1, 2015
Crossing Worlds is the second book in The Rise of the Aztecs series and consolidates Zoe Saadia’s skill as the creator of a world that is both thrilling and believable. A world in which readers can fully immerse themselves.
Crossing Worlds picks up the story of Kuini and Coyotl, two years on from The Highlander. The boys are now seventeen years old and have honed their skills as warriors whilst battling the Tepanecs, who have invaded Coyotl’s homeland and killed his Emperor father. Exiled from the Lowlands, Coyotl is forced to take refuge with Kuini’s estranged family in the Highlands.
Much as I enjoyed The Highlander, I enjoyed Crossing Worlds even more. I suppose this is inevitable as we get to know the characters and their stories more fully. Kuini and Coyotl are as different as can be and should be natural enemies and yet their friendship is deep and enduring. Ironically, both of them seem to have been born into the wrong world as Kuini loves the life of a warrior which is more in keeping with the Lowlands, while Coyotl prefers the gentle pace of life of the Highlands. Unfortunately, neither has the luxury of choosing their own destiny as events conspire to dictate their choices.
Saadia’s love of history is once again clearly demonstrated as she highlights the politics, not only between the different communities but within Kuini’s village, where his war leader father faces attacks on his position from all sides. At the same time, he is trying to encourage a new alliance with their traditional enemy the Lowlanders, in order to stand up to the more aggressive and powerful Tepanecs.
One of the themes I particularly enjoyed is the way Saadia explores the dynamic between father and son. Kuini left his village after discovering his father’s heritage but during the course of the novel he is forced to acknowledge that he misjudged him. Kuini’s father stands by his son in the face of much criticism about his friendship with a Lowlander. He recognises his son’s potential as a warrior and leader and sees a lot of himself in Kuini.
I also liked the way that Saadia develops the representation of women in a very male dominated world. Kuini’s mother is the main priestess and a great healer but she has to publically defer to men, even though in private her husband respects and listens to her opinions. I loved the character of Dehe, a strong independent girl who, shunned by the villagers, lives by herself in the woods. Dehe, like Kuini’s mother is a great healer and Saadia hints at her potential to play an important role in the future stories.
Saadia ends her novel at the point where Kuini, Coyotl and Dehe are about to leave the Highlands and ensures that we are desperate to follow their adventures in the next instalment. Saadia’s prowess as a writer is clear in the way she captures and maintains our interest with the twists and turns of the plot. At the same time, however, she provides a very human face to this period in history ensuring that we engage with the events and the implications they have on many lives.
If you like a series in which you can become fully absorbed then I recommend this one wholeheartedly. Crossing Worlds could be enjoyed as a standalone but nothing beats reading the series in order to fully get to know the characters. Meanwhile, I can’t wait to read The Emperor’s Second Wife, which is the next book in the series.
Crossing Worlds picks up the story of Kuini and Coyotl, two years on from The Highlander. The boys are now seventeen years old and have honed their skills as warriors whilst battling the Tepanecs, who have invaded Coyotl’s homeland and killed his Emperor father. Exiled from the Lowlands, Coyotl is forced to take refuge with Kuini’s estranged family in the Highlands.
Much as I enjoyed The Highlander, I enjoyed Crossing Worlds even more. I suppose this is inevitable as we get to know the characters and their stories more fully. Kuini and Coyotl are as different as can be and should be natural enemies and yet their friendship is deep and enduring. Ironically, both of them seem to have been born into the wrong world as Kuini loves the life of a warrior which is more in keeping with the Lowlands, while Coyotl prefers the gentle pace of life of the Highlands. Unfortunately, neither has the luxury of choosing their own destiny as events conspire to dictate their choices.
Saadia’s love of history is once again clearly demonstrated as she highlights the politics, not only between the different communities but within Kuini’s village, where his war leader father faces attacks on his position from all sides. At the same time, he is trying to encourage a new alliance with their traditional enemy the Lowlanders, in order to stand up to the more aggressive and powerful Tepanecs.
One of the themes I particularly enjoyed is the way Saadia explores the dynamic between father and son. Kuini left his village after discovering his father’s heritage but during the course of the novel he is forced to acknowledge that he misjudged him. Kuini’s father stands by his son in the face of much criticism about his friendship with a Lowlander. He recognises his son’s potential as a warrior and leader and sees a lot of himself in Kuini.
I also liked the way that Saadia develops the representation of women in a very male dominated world. Kuini’s mother is the main priestess and a great healer but she has to publically defer to men, even though in private her husband respects and listens to her opinions. I loved the character of Dehe, a strong independent girl who, shunned by the villagers, lives by herself in the woods. Dehe, like Kuini’s mother is a great healer and Saadia hints at her potential to play an important role in the future stories.
Saadia ends her novel at the point where Kuini, Coyotl and Dehe are about to leave the Highlands and ensures that we are desperate to follow their adventures in the next instalment. Saadia’s prowess as a writer is clear in the way she captures and maintains our interest with the twists and turns of the plot. At the same time, however, she provides a very human face to this period in history ensuring that we engage with the events and the implications they have on many lives.
If you like a series in which you can become fully absorbed then I recommend this one wholeheartedly. Crossing Worlds could be enjoyed as a standalone but nothing beats reading the series in order to fully get to know the characters. Meanwhile, I can’t wait to read The Emperor’s Second Wife, which is the next book in the series.
January 24, 2013
Again Zoe Saadia has crafted an incredible tale of this ancient time against the cultural and political intrigue of the Highlanders. Her writing paints a picture that lights the imagination and my only regret is that the epilogue comes too soon. Have already started the next in series.
January 29, 2013
I am truly enjoying this series about the rise of the Aztec empire. I am looking forward to reading the rest of the series. Ms Saadia does a fantastic job of bring the characters alive. There is a strong message in these stories about the bond of friendship, that continues through the ages. Looking forward to book #3...
November 1, 2014
A great read with some likeable characters. The historical setting makes these books stand out for me.
February 25, 2013
If you love historical fiction or have a fascination with pre-Columbus Mexico, this book and series is a must read. Crossing Worlds is the second book in the Rise of the Aztec Series. In the first, The Highlander, the story was about a highlander's curiosity and eventual settling with the lowlanders. He was both fascinated and frustrated by their ways, and often landed in trouble. Crossing Worlds picks up two years after The Highlander ends, with a role reversal between two unlikely best friends who come from competing hostile tribes, both very different in their fortunes and customs.
One of the friends, a lowlander, is a would-be emperor, but ends up on the run when his people lose a war with the current superpower tribe in the region. His highlander friend takes him to the highlands where he is a refugee for a couple of years. Many of the highlanders hate him because he comes from a warring tribe. Part of this magnificent story is about overcoming bigotries, with much the rest about a leader being perceptive enough to see the bigger picture when those around him cannot.
The Highlander and the Lowlander being best friends under the circumstances would be much like an Israeli and Palestinian becoming best friends today, or a black man and a white man during the days of slavery in the United States. It is an extraordinary friendship that Zoe Saadia wrote perfectly in The Highlander and has done so again here in Crossing Worlds.
The first two books in The Rise of the Aztec series is full of adventure, danger, romance, thrills, great characters, deception, clever females, strong males and backstabbing antagonists. Both books kept me engaged during the entire read.
Having read The Highlander and Crossing Worlds in this series, I look forward to The Emperor's Second Wife, which along with the fourth book is already on my Kindle. I love great historical fiction and this series certainly qualifies. Zoe Saadia is an excellent writer and her books are well-crafted.
One of the friends, a lowlander, is a would-be emperor, but ends up on the run when his people lose a war with the current superpower tribe in the region. His highlander friend takes him to the highlands where he is a refugee for a couple of years. Many of the highlanders hate him because he comes from a warring tribe. Part of this magnificent story is about overcoming bigotries, with much the rest about a leader being perceptive enough to see the bigger picture when those around him cannot.
The Highlander and the Lowlander being best friends under the circumstances would be much like an Israeli and Palestinian becoming best friends today, or a black man and a white man during the days of slavery in the United States. It is an extraordinary friendship that Zoe Saadia wrote perfectly in The Highlander and has done so again here in Crossing Worlds.
The first two books in The Rise of the Aztec series is full of adventure, danger, romance, thrills, great characters, deception, clever females, strong males and backstabbing antagonists. Both books kept me engaged during the entire read.
Having read The Highlander and Crossing Worlds in this series, I look forward to The Emperor's Second Wife, which along with the fourth book is already on my Kindle. I love great historical fiction and this series certainly qualifies. Zoe Saadia is an excellent writer and her books are well-crafted.
June 5, 2016
Following on from The Highlander, Crossing Worlds continues the adventures of Kuini and Coyotl, friends from distinctly different backgrounds. Disillusioned with what he considered his father’s deception, Kuini left his homeland angry and estranged from his family. The boys have spent the last two years as warriors, fighting the enemies of Coyotl’s people. He and Coyotl are nevertheless forced to return to Huexotzinco when the Lowlanders are defeated in battle and the Emperor, Coyotl’s father, is killed.
Coyotl’s presence is not received well by certain parties in Huexotzinco, and only tolerated because he is a friend of the War Leader’s son. But the two nations have been enemies for generations and dissension brings matters to a head. The War Leader can see the benefits of an alliance with the Acolhua people, between them they have a good chance of defeating the Tepanecs. So Kuini’s appeal to help Coyotl return as Emperor has the backing of his father.
I love how Kuini and Coyotl have grown, still retaining the mischievousness and friendship of their youth despite the years of fighting and becoming seasoned warriors. Kuini and his father gain greater understanding of, and respect for, each other. Political and cultural intrigue surrounds them all, drawing in Dehe, a self-sufficient refugee who lives on the fringes of Huexotzinco after falling foul of Mino, the priestess of Itzpapalotl, who is also Kuini’s mother. She becomes involved after overhearing a conspiracy against Coyotl and Kuini, with the intent of undermining the credibility of the War Leader.
As with all her books, Zoe Saadia weaves together intriguing, well researched historical facts and fiction into a fascinating, realistic and dramatic story which brings Mesoamerica and it’s peoples vividly to life. The storytelling flows smoothly allowing a glimpse into long ago times. Wonderfully developed and engaging characters draw attention to the role of each personality, new and old, in moving the story forward, and also demonstrate the differences and conflicts between and within the communities.
Coyotl’s presence is not received well by certain parties in Huexotzinco, and only tolerated because he is a friend of the War Leader’s son. But the two nations have been enemies for generations and dissension brings matters to a head. The War Leader can see the benefits of an alliance with the Acolhua people, between them they have a good chance of defeating the Tepanecs. So Kuini’s appeal to help Coyotl return as Emperor has the backing of his father.
I love how Kuini and Coyotl have grown, still retaining the mischievousness and friendship of their youth despite the years of fighting and becoming seasoned warriors. Kuini and his father gain greater understanding of, and respect for, each other. Political and cultural intrigue surrounds them all, drawing in Dehe, a self-sufficient refugee who lives on the fringes of Huexotzinco after falling foul of Mino, the priestess of Itzpapalotl, who is also Kuini’s mother. She becomes involved after overhearing a conspiracy against Coyotl and Kuini, with the intent of undermining the credibility of the War Leader.
As with all her books, Zoe Saadia weaves together intriguing, well researched historical facts and fiction into a fascinating, realistic and dramatic story which brings Mesoamerica and it’s peoples vividly to life. The storytelling flows smoothly allowing a glimpse into long ago times. Wonderfully developed and engaging characters draw attention to the role of each personality, new and old, in moving the story forward, and also demonstrate the differences and conflicts between and within the communities.
January 28, 2013
Crossing Worlds by Zoe Saadia is the second installment of The Rise of the Aztecs series. This is an excellent historical novel dealing with the post classic period of Mesoamerican history in central Mexico.
Crossing Worlds, along with Book - The Highlander, held my attention and kept me gasping for more. The author did an excellent job of continuing the story she had started with Book 1. The action and adventure is none stop and the storyline is well defined. I found it easy to put myself into the story and follow along. Each twist and turn into the story added more excitement as the plot thickens.
By continuing the adventures of the main characters from the first book it is easy to follow them as they grow and mature into young men and warriors. With the author’s writing style it is easy to identify with the characters , sharing their thoughts and emotions.
If you loved The Highlander, you will not be disappointed with Crossing Worlds by Zoe Saadia. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and cannot wait to read more of the continuing adventures of the heroes.
I highly recommend this book to all readers.
[Please note: I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.]
Crossing Worlds, along with Book - The Highlander, held my attention and kept me gasping for more. The author did an excellent job of continuing the story she had started with Book 1. The action and adventure is none stop and the storyline is well defined. I found it easy to put myself into the story and follow along. Each twist and turn into the story added more excitement as the plot thickens.
By continuing the adventures of the main characters from the first book it is easy to follow them as they grow and mature into young men and warriors. With the author’s writing style it is easy to identify with the characters , sharing their thoughts and emotions.
If you loved The Highlander, you will not be disappointed with Crossing Worlds by Zoe Saadia. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and cannot wait to read more of the continuing adventures of the heroes.
I highly recommend this book to all readers.
[Please note: I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.]
February 11, 2013
The second book of this series starts up in the aftermath of the events that ended the first book, and very quickly and effectively introduces the backdrop for the book and the new characters the new environment brings. She does a fantastic job of showing the roll each of the new characters, as well as developing their personalities quite effectively. The story gets you caught up on the new lives of the central characters Kuini and Coyotl.
The author is able to insert that simmering flame of "uh-oh" very subtly into the opening events of the story line while not distracting from building the new surroundings and characters. Throughout the story, the lives and personality traits of each of the characters weave into and out of each scene and event with a tremendous amount of flow and synchronicity.
As I expected, she kept me wrapped around the finger of the book throughout the story. Never once did I find myself not reading further in anticipation of the next page, nor did a day pass while reading this that I did not find myself reflecting on the events of pages past.
Another incredible piece of storytelling by the author...book 3 of the series will be read in short order and after great anticipation.
The author is able to insert that simmering flame of "uh-oh" very subtly into the opening events of the story line while not distracting from building the new surroundings and characters. Throughout the story, the lives and personality traits of each of the characters weave into and out of each scene and event with a tremendous amount of flow and synchronicity.
As I expected, she kept me wrapped around the finger of the book throughout the story. Never once did I find myself not reading further in anticipation of the next page, nor did a day pass while reading this that I did not find myself reflecting on the events of pages past.
Another incredible piece of storytelling by the author...book 3 of the series will be read in short order and after great anticipation.
October 11, 2013
Crossing Worlds continues the saga of the turbulent times in Pre-Comlumbian Mexico and two young men born of different worlds, Kiuni the Highlander, son of the Chief War Leader of Huexotzinco and Nezahualcoyotl (Coyotl) the son of the Acolhua Emperor of Texcoco. Set against the backdrop of historical facts and the Tepanec Empire ruled by Tezozomoc, the story is skillfully woven with characters so believable that you are transported to that ancient time and become immersed in the tale. Here you will meet for the first time the young Tlacaelel, destined to become the Chief Warlord of Tenochtitlan and chief architect of the Aztec Empire, as well as his older brother, Itzcoatl, destined to become the first Emperor of the Aztec Empire. Coyotl, Tlacaelel, and Itzcoatl are all very real, historic figures, but it is Zoe's skill that makes them live again.
There is something for every reader in this book. Conflict, battle, intrigue, old animosity, new found love, romance, warmth, and, yes, even humor. Through her characters, Zoe Saadia makes the world of Meso-America before the European arrival live once more. Like great potato chips, you can't stop at one... you'll hunger for more. Lucky for her readers, the saga continues with The Emperor's Second Wife.
There is something for every reader in this book. Conflict, battle, intrigue, old animosity, new found love, romance, warmth, and, yes, even humor. Through her characters, Zoe Saadia makes the world of Meso-America before the European arrival live once more. Like great potato chips, you can't stop at one... you'll hunger for more. Lucky for her readers, the saga continues with The Emperor's Second Wife.
October 4, 2012
This book is a window into the world of two Boys Coyotyl and Kuini ,17yr olds who have fled a disastrous war .They hope Kuini's Father(warlord) will help restore Coyotyl to his throne. Unfortunately the two nations are lifelong enemies .The boys deflect problems caused by their inability to adjust ,Tricky relationships threaten both young men and politics drive them into desperate situations.Then decisions are forced upon them and they must take action..the surprising solution of one young girl on their behalf left me gasping..in-shock I would swim an Ocean to read this story:-)It amazes me that this action.. Romance.mystery is all done constrained by historical facts.We are left to realize that history was not just names and dates that political ambitions destroyed lives..not unlike todat
November 27, 2012
Zoe did not disappoint me on the second book of the series, quite the contrary. Her characters develop and she keeps on scetching them the way I like so much - in colourful layers that avoid the black and white so many authors tend to. You get to know certain characters that only played a minor role in the previous book, better; other that played a major role before and most certainly will in the next one, are kept in touch with throughout the book in subtle ways. The storyline keeps it's flow, keeping you interested and wanting to learn more more about these nations, almost completly lost in the mists of time. As far as I'm concerned I will most certainly follow the story as it moves along.
June 11, 2014
The consequences of war lead to some strange situations as the heir to the throne is forced to flee and live with people who hate him, and only his friend and his friend's powerful father can save him. A spell binding read!
October 14, 2013
Part of a four book series filled with excitement and in depth historical facts. Loved it!
November 8, 2017
Crossing Worlds is not my first read from author Saadia. It is part of the Aztec series. I love her stories as I am most interested in Aztec culture even though this is a fictional account.We revisit Kuini and Coyotl again as they are older now and taking on a whole new adventure amidst intense pressure from tribal nations. There is such an enduring friendship here it warms my heart as these young friends are immersed in a tumultuous battle of ancient tribal ways. This would fit as a great young adult read or excellent for all age groups.
June 3, 2021
Pure Zoe Saadia. She is the queen of captivating her audience and showing the increadible world of the past. I love the small details about everyday life of the people that she smuggles in her chapters. I adore the language, the vocabulary she puts in their mouth. And I'm absolutely enchanted by how she portrays the mindset of these people. Go read it!
September 26, 2021
The story continues. It adds interest to to the era and enriches the the history of the Aztecs. The only fault is mine , as I had trouble with the names I was not use to reading.
November 2, 2014
“Crossing Worlds” is the rise of the Aztecs. It is set in the pre-Aztec central Mexican area. The author has done extensive research of the Aztecs and the other groups that existed in the area during the same time.
Zoe Saadia has done a great job with this book. It is very well written. Her characters are very interesting, intriguing and very believable. The story is exciting and deeply affecting.
I loved the previous books and I am more intrigued each time I get a new book by Zoe Saadia. “Crossing Worlds” is the first book in the second series and the saga continues making each page even more interesting. I followed the boys that took refuge in the highlands and I was utterly intrigued.
This is an author that you need to follow if you love history, mystery and excitement
Zoe Saadia has done a great job with this book. It is very well written. Her characters are very interesting, intriguing and very believable. The story is exciting and deeply affecting.
I loved the previous books and I am more intrigued each time I get a new book by Zoe Saadia. “Crossing Worlds” is the first book in the second series and the saga continues making each page even more interesting. I followed the boys that took refuge in the highlands and I was utterly intrigued.
This is an author that you need to follow if you love history, mystery and excitement
November 2, 2014
I was so fascinated by Zoe's first book in this series, "The Highlander," that I had to get this one, "Crossing Worlds." This is historical fiction at its finest. Set in Mesoamerica in what is now known as Mexico, this offers a refreshing twist to this genre. With this book, once again, I have been entertained with a engaging read dealing with a great story line and plot. Full of action and adventure, it's an interesting story has we get to watch as the two young men become warriors. While this book picks up where Highlander left off, this is a complete story and is a stand-alone book for those who might be starting the series here. So for fans of historical fiction, dive into a great series, this one delivers.
November 1, 2014
I loved this book! This novel has everything: romance, adventure, suspense. Zoe Saadia has a way with words and created an excellent historical world in central Mexico with amazing characters. If you like action and adventure that is non-stop, you can't pass this one up! It's an excellent Aztec series and looking forward to her next one! Highly recommend! I was given this copy by the author in exchange for an honest review.
November 4, 2014
Zoe Saadia continues to enthrall readers with Book 2 in her "Rise of the Aztecs" series, "Crossing Worlds. Our hero is not a Scottish Highlander, but an Aztec prince, Kuini. Learn about the Aztecs while enjoying this finely-wrought tale of Kuini and his highborn Acolhua friend, heir to the Texococo throne. Politics and passion meet in a mesmerizing story of high adventure in Aztec times.
Highly recommended
Highly recommended
November 9, 2017
Zoe Saadia continues to enthrall readers with Book 2 in her "Rise of the Aztecs" series, "Crossing Worlds. Our hero is not a Scottish Highlander, but an Aztec prince, Kuini. Learn about the Aztecs while enjoying this finely-wrought tale of Kuini and his highborn Acolhua friend, heir to the Texococo throne. Politics and passion meet in a mesmerizing story of high adventure in Aztec times.
Highly recommended
Highly recommended
November 6, 2014
Zoe Saadia continues to amaze. Her absolute love of this subject matter springs eternal from the pages of her work and envelops you with everything it has. This series in particular is the ultimate magical carpet ride through history.
November 9, 2014
I loved the first book, so I was thrilled to find the second. It is so rare to read about this time in history, and the author transports you there so you feel like you are experiencing the drama with the characters. Great story with plenty of emotions and twists. Highly recommend!
May 21, 2013
Great sequel to the Highlander. Loved the newly introduced characters adn the development of the old ones
May 21, 2013
Another good read. The troubles are deepening, and so are the depth of the characters
August 13, 2014
good series, books to-re-read
November 8, 2014
I really enjoy this series. On to the third...
November 4, 2014
A well-written sequel which follows on from 'The Highlander'. If you are a fan of historical fiction, then this one is for you. You will not be disappointed!
November 8, 2014
Truly unique book series. I never been so excited to read the following books. This is a must.
November 11, 2017
Crossing Worlds (The Rise of the Aztecs #2)
by Zoe Saadia
An exceptional story with with wonderful detail.
Epic adventure and a great followup to Book 1.
by Zoe Saadia
An exceptional story with with wonderful detail.
Epic adventure and a great followup to Book 1.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews