The Mayan

by David Alvarez, Maggie Clement (Illustrator), Erika Alvarez (Editor)

The Mayan is a historical novel set in the Yucatan in the late 10th century and details the decline and fall of the Mayan empire at the hands of the violent Toltecs. The story is seen through the eyes of Chicchan, a Mayan physician who, on the eve of his execution at the Sacred Well, remembers the complex and inexorable conquest of his people and their way of life, recalling as well as his own pivotal role in their defense and ultimate destruction. Chicchan’s story is at once both personal and worldly, as his adventures and associations allow him to witness and participate in the major events leading to his people’s demise. The reader meets a panorama of powerful figures whose swift, violent means of ascent define the mysterious yet allegorical tale of the Maya. While historical, the story has a contemporary resonance, as the same factors that led to the Mayan’s decay and destruction are cautionary symptoms for every advanced civilization today.

551 pages, Kindle Edition

First published August 3, 2015

Reviews

[Thomas A. · Rating 2 out of 5]

I finished it

This book is a wannabe of Gary Jennings' terrific book "Aztec". The author uses all the accurate place and ruler names, but is not up to the task of an engaging tale. The story is so convoluted and repetitive that it never has the flow necessary to a good read.
In addition, the Kindle book is chock full of editing errors. I did finish it, but mostly because I paid for it.

[Unisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brilliant account of historical context within a spellbinding narrative

I really enjoyed this book. A must read for anyone interested in the Mayan history.

The only criticism I have is the lack of editorial oversight. I must have submitted 20 spelling corrections and grammatical changes. It really detracts from a brilliant book!

[Susana Lopez · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Mayan

It’s interesting to read about how these people lived. It makes me want to continue reading about ancient Mexico. I do recommend this book.

[serena debesa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent!

As a lover of history and historical fiction this was an excellent combination of both. A very easy read filled with rich detail. I would love to see more from the author and to find out that he is a world history teacher here in Florida couldn't have pleased me more. This book gave a vivid account of Mayan life culture religion and society with rich fast passed story telling.. A must read for anyone fascinated with Mesoamerican history.

[Aritra · Rating 3 out of 5]

Reasonable read. I enjoyed the historical side of the novel more than the writing style. However, the plot was reasonably good, and I was satisfied. There were some differences from other books regards the Toltecs, but I suppose that is understandable given how little we know about that time period. I would recommend it as a read.