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Aztec
The Mexican bestseller - one of history's most extraordinary stories
Yucatan, 1519: Consumed with ambition, Hernan Cortes sails from Cuba to explore the coast of the lands to the west. He takes prisoner a young Mayan princess, Malinali, whose father has been murdered by the Mexica on the orders of their emperor, Montezuma. She hungers for revenge.
Their journey to the heart of ancient Mexico and the eventual conquest of the Aztec nation is one of the most astonishing and tragic stories in history. Cortes has his conquest and Malinali has her revenge – but neither of them could foresee the cost for the country – or for themselves.
Feathered Serpent stayed on the Mexican bestseller lists for four months. It has also been published as Aztec.
Yucatan, 1519: Consumed with ambition, Hernan Cortes sails from Cuba to explore the coast of the lands to the west. He takes prisoner a young Mayan princess, Malinali, whose father has been murdered by the Mexica on the orders of their emperor, Montezuma. She hungers for revenge.
Their journey to the heart of ancient Mexico and the eventual conquest of the Aztec nation is one of the most astonishing and tragic stories in history. Cortes has his conquest and Malinali has her revenge – but neither of them could foresee the cost for the country – or for themselves.
Feathered Serpent stayed on the Mexican bestseller lists for four months. It has also been published as Aztec.
Unknown Binding
First published January 1, 1996
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About the author
Colin Falconer
69 books737 followersColin Falconer writes fast-paced historical adventures that sweep readers across centuries and continents, from the battlefields of Rome to the intrigues of forgotten empires. His novels blend action, danger, and unforgettable characters in richly imagined worlds.
Born in London, Colin now lives in Australia with his wife and their cocker spaniels. Click FOLLOW for updates on new releases, or join his mailing list for exclusive offers.
Born in London, Colin now lives in Australia with his wife and their cocker spaniels. Click FOLLOW for updates on new releases, or join his mailing list for exclusive offers.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 98 reviews
October 25, 2014
As author of "The Last Toltec King" and a trained historian from the Mexican National University (UNAM), I approached the novel "Aztec" by Colin Falconer with a highly critical eye. Though, after all was said and done, I found myself pleasantly surprised. Well researched with attention to historical detail, "Aztec" is a visually rich re-telling of legendary, heroic exploits, devastating treacheries, a brutal clash of cultures, and the human struggle for survival in a world filled with greed, lust, and revenge.
In 1519, Spanish conquistador Hernan Cortes led an expedition into the heart of Mexico, which ultimately caused the demise of the Aztec empire and brought large portions of the New World under Spanish rule. The novel "Aztec" is the story of Hernan Cortes and his march to Tenochtitlan, the Aztec capital, as seen through the eyes of the woman Malinali. Also known through history as Doña Marina and/or La Malinche, Malinali is gifted to the Spaniards early in their expedition, and because of her intelligence and knowledge of languages, she becomes Cortes' interpreter as well as his paramour.
As a reader who is coming from an academic point of view, I much appreciated the author's historical subtleties that must have taken place between two, so very different cultures. I find I just have to share this, one of my favorite scenes from the book. I don't think it's a spoiler, being such a small snippet of text;
***
My Lord sits astride his great warhorse at the crest of a hill. He takes a magical charm from the pocket of his long-sleeved doublet. Our Mexica guides murmur among themselves, pointing.
I clutch at the stirrups of the beast, no longer afraid of its size, its smell. "Our guides would like to know what is in the box you are looking at."
"It is a compass," he says, and shows it to me. "The needle always points to the north. This way I can judge in which direction we are headed."
It is a ridiculous answer and one I cannot repeat to men of position and intelligence. I turn back to our Mexica guides. "It is a mirror for looking into the future," I tell them. "It can also read men's minds."
The Mexica stare at Cortes and their eyes go wide.
***
I found author Colin Falconer's ability to surmise such historically relevant reactions on the part of the characters to be quite plausible. More simply put, the author "gets it" that Native Americans were living in the Stone Age (based on their weapons and tools) when the first Europeans arrived and naturally would have responded to Europeans and their advanced civilization in ways they, themselves could understand.
I believe the audience that would most appreciate the novel "Aztec" would be fans of both historical fiction as well as non-fiction history of Ancient Mexico.
I've noticed that readers who love this genre tend to be divided over the difficult, Nahuatl terminology. When an author uses too many Nahuatl names and terms, there are those who get frustrated. They want to be able to follow the storyline without the hindrances of mind-boggling words like "Tlahuizcalpantecuhtli" that take five times to sound out and a glossary at the end to comprehend. At the other side of the field of fans is the sock-it-to-me crowd that craves to be intellectually challenged at every turn. These are the readers who put the book down so they can "Google it."
"Aztec" by Colin Falconer is not filled up with difficult Nahuatl terms which makes it perfect for anyone looking for an accessible, unencumbered story from this time period.
One criticism that stands out beyond measure for "Aztec" is the poor quality of editing. It is obvious that author Colin Falconer put a great deal of research and effort into his narrative, and for this he deserves a highly qualified editor. I would like to see Mr. Falconer's future editions properly edited, so that the quality of his writing is commensurate with the level of his research and story telling.
Despite this lack of attention to detail, I highly recommend that you read "Aztec!" You might think you know how the story ends, but do you really know how it all came to pass? Unimaginable things happened, and if you read Colin Falconer's "Aztec" I guarantee you'll feel like you were there to see it all.
Julie Black
Author, "The Last Toltec King"
In 1519, Spanish conquistador Hernan Cortes led an expedition into the heart of Mexico, which ultimately caused the demise of the Aztec empire and brought large portions of the New World under Spanish rule. The novel "Aztec" is the story of Hernan Cortes and his march to Tenochtitlan, the Aztec capital, as seen through the eyes of the woman Malinali. Also known through history as Doña Marina and/or La Malinche, Malinali is gifted to the Spaniards early in their expedition, and because of her intelligence and knowledge of languages, she becomes Cortes' interpreter as well as his paramour.
As a reader who is coming from an academic point of view, I much appreciated the author's historical subtleties that must have taken place between two, so very different cultures. I find I just have to share this, one of my favorite scenes from the book. I don't think it's a spoiler, being such a small snippet of text;
***
My Lord sits astride his great warhorse at the crest of a hill. He takes a magical charm from the pocket of his long-sleeved doublet. Our Mexica guides murmur among themselves, pointing.
I clutch at the stirrups of the beast, no longer afraid of its size, its smell. "Our guides would like to know what is in the box you are looking at."
"It is a compass," he says, and shows it to me. "The needle always points to the north. This way I can judge in which direction we are headed."
It is a ridiculous answer and one I cannot repeat to men of position and intelligence. I turn back to our Mexica guides. "It is a mirror for looking into the future," I tell them. "It can also read men's minds."
The Mexica stare at Cortes and their eyes go wide.
***
I found author Colin Falconer's ability to surmise such historically relevant reactions on the part of the characters to be quite plausible. More simply put, the author "gets it" that Native Americans were living in the Stone Age (based on their weapons and tools) when the first Europeans arrived and naturally would have responded to Europeans and their advanced civilization in ways they, themselves could understand.
I believe the audience that would most appreciate the novel "Aztec" would be fans of both historical fiction as well as non-fiction history of Ancient Mexico.
I've noticed that readers who love this genre tend to be divided over the difficult, Nahuatl terminology. When an author uses too many Nahuatl names and terms, there are those who get frustrated. They want to be able to follow the storyline without the hindrances of mind-boggling words like "Tlahuizcalpantecuhtli" that take five times to sound out and a glossary at the end to comprehend. At the other side of the field of fans is the sock-it-to-me crowd that craves to be intellectually challenged at every turn. These are the readers who put the book down so they can "Google it."
"Aztec" by Colin Falconer is not filled up with difficult Nahuatl terms which makes it perfect for anyone looking for an accessible, unencumbered story from this time period.
One criticism that stands out beyond measure for "Aztec" is the poor quality of editing. It is obvious that author Colin Falconer put a great deal of research and effort into his narrative, and for this he deserves a highly qualified editor. I would like to see Mr. Falconer's future editions properly edited, so that the quality of his writing is commensurate with the level of his research and story telling.
Despite this lack of attention to detail, I highly recommend that you read "Aztec!" You might think you know how the story ends, but do you really know how it all came to pass? Unimaginable things happened, and if you read Colin Falconer's "Aztec" I guarantee you'll feel like you were there to see it all.
Julie Black
Author, "The Last Toltec King"
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January 19, 2022Henüz bir lise öğrencisiyken okuduğum bu kitap; okumalarım arasında "Popüler Kitaplar" kategorisinde en çok beğendiklerimden birisi diyebilirim. Kralın Kervanları ve Baudolino ile aynı dönemde okuduğum üç tarihi kitaptan ilkiydi. Üçü de sevdiğim kitaplar oldular.
Bu kitap her şeyden önce bir "tarih kitabı" değil; tarihi olayları kurguyla harmanlamış bir "tarihi roman". Bu nedenle anlatılanlara belge gözüyle bakmadan okumamak lazım. Bununla birlikte, Azteklerin başlarına gelen akıbette ne derece sorumlu olduğu tartışılır "burnu havadalıkları"nı bu kitapta güzel anlatmış yazar. Aynı zamanda, Aztek kültürüne dair bilgiler de öğretiyor okura.
Tarihin en büyük katliamlarından birini nispeten pembe bir örtü altında izlesek de; kitabın akıcılığı, olayların ilginçliği ile insanda merak uyandıran bir kitap olduğu tartışılmaz. Tarihi kitaplara ilgi duyanların okuması gerektiğini düşünüyorum.
Bu kitap her şeyden önce bir "tarih kitabı" değil; tarihi olayları kurguyla harmanlamış bir "tarihi roman". Bu nedenle anlatılanlara belge gözüyle bakmadan okumamak lazım. Bununla birlikte, Azteklerin başlarına gelen akıbette ne derece sorumlu olduğu tartışılır "burnu havadalıkları"nı bu kitapta güzel anlatmış yazar. Aynı zamanda, Aztek kültürüne dair bilgiler de öğretiyor okura.
Tarihin en büyük katliamlarından birini nispeten pembe bir örtü altında izlesek de; kitabın akıcılığı, olayların ilginçliği ile insanda merak uyandıran bir kitap olduğu tartışılmaz. Tarihi kitaplara ilgi duyanların okuması gerektiğini düşünüyorum.
July 18, 2013
Five hundred years ago, the Spanish Conquistadores defeated the mighty Aztec empire. It is a story we all know well, but there is one aspect of it that is largely unknown outside Mexico: that Cortés could not have prevailed without the help of his interpreter and mistress, a native Mexican woman, Malinali. Known as La Malinche, today she is both reviled as a traitor to, and revered as the mother of, the Mexican people.
Colin Falconer has taken this complex and contradictory woman as his central character. Although known as a writer of thrillers, Falconer here demonstrates that he is a writer of fine prose and deep insight. What is most striking about this novel is the way Falconer enters into the minds and world view of his characters, especially the native Mexicans. Through them we observe from the inside a clash of cultures that leads to inevitable tragedy.
The question generally posed by history is how a ragtag band of Spanish treasure seekers could have so easily defeated a strong and warlike nation like the Aztecs. Books like Guns, Germs and Steel (by Jared Diamond) can tell us about the external factors that may have contributed, but what were the people involved thinking, what motivated them to act as they did, what influenced them to make the decisions they made? We are pretty familiar with what motivated Cortés and the Spaniards: a lust for gold and glory, thinly disguised behind religious fervour. But what made Malinali decide to collaborate in the conquest of her country? What made Motecuhzoma, the Aztec King, capitulate so easily?
These are questions that science and history cannot easily answer, but fiction can. Through fiction we can enter not only into the minds and hearts of these people, but also see the world through their eyes. We come to understand their system of beliefs, the paradigm through which they interpret the events around them and come to their decisions. And we come to see that there are a myriad of pressures which influence events – the political, the religious and the personal. This is especially true of Falconer’s portrayal of Malinali.
After cutting a swathe through the coastal tribes, the Spaniards are offered appeasing gifts, including women. Among them is Malinali who has been taken as a slave by the Aztecs after they killed her father. She is fascinated by Cortés, whom she believes to be the incarnation of her beloved father’s totem god, Feathered Serpent. Malinali has been raised to believe that one day Feathered Serpent will return from across the seas to deliver her people from the hated Aztecs and that when he does, she will be his chosen companion. Through Cortés Malinali believes she can fulfil her destiny and take her revenge.
Although we know the outcome of these events, in its exploration of the human heart, this novel keeps us spellbound. Falconer has created an honest, engrossing, complex world populated by people we come to know intimately. I cannot recommend it too highly.
Colin Falconer has taken this complex and contradictory woman as his central character. Although known as a writer of thrillers, Falconer here demonstrates that he is a writer of fine prose and deep insight. What is most striking about this novel is the way Falconer enters into the minds and world view of his characters, especially the native Mexicans. Through them we observe from the inside a clash of cultures that leads to inevitable tragedy.
The question generally posed by history is how a ragtag band of Spanish treasure seekers could have so easily defeated a strong and warlike nation like the Aztecs. Books like Guns, Germs and Steel (by Jared Diamond) can tell us about the external factors that may have contributed, but what were the people involved thinking, what motivated them to act as they did, what influenced them to make the decisions they made? We are pretty familiar with what motivated Cortés and the Spaniards: a lust for gold and glory, thinly disguised behind religious fervour. But what made Malinali decide to collaborate in the conquest of her country? What made Motecuhzoma, the Aztec King, capitulate so easily?
These are questions that science and history cannot easily answer, but fiction can. Through fiction we can enter not only into the minds and hearts of these people, but also see the world through their eyes. We come to understand their system of beliefs, the paradigm through which they interpret the events around them and come to their decisions. And we come to see that there are a myriad of pressures which influence events – the political, the religious and the personal. This is especially true of Falconer’s portrayal of Malinali.
After cutting a swathe through the coastal tribes, the Spaniards are offered appeasing gifts, including women. Among them is Malinali who has been taken as a slave by the Aztecs after they killed her father. She is fascinated by Cortés, whom she believes to be the incarnation of her beloved father’s totem god, Feathered Serpent. Malinali has been raised to believe that one day Feathered Serpent will return from across the seas to deliver her people from the hated Aztecs and that when he does, she will be his chosen companion. Through Cortés Malinali believes she can fulfil her destiny and take her revenge.
Although we know the outcome of these events, in its exploration of the human heart, this novel keeps us spellbound. Falconer has created an honest, engrossing, complex world populated by people we come to know intimately. I cannot recommend it too highly.
December 31, 2023
Solid. Colin Falconer is great at culture crashes. Especially showing how one is seen as/remembered as being 'less than' because history is written by victors. Losing doesn't mean bad, doesn't mean a lack of rich, valuable culture.
Loved the story arcs here: the higher the raise in power, the quicker the descent into madness. Perceived deities and fervent following. Conquest. Tyrrany. This was a dark book.
What does this in is that it was very hard to root for any of these characters. Dark, dark shades of gray here. The madness, near-blind obedience, and ferverous following made for an inability to connect. Still, though, a fun angle on a rarely talked about moment in history.
Second Falconer book I have read, and not my last
Loved the story arcs here: the higher the raise in power, the quicker the descent into madness. Perceived deities and fervent following. Conquest. Tyrrany. This was a dark book.
What does this in is that it was very hard to root for any of these characters. Dark, dark shades of gray here. The madness, near-blind obedience, and ferverous following made for an inability to connect. Still, though, a fun angle on a rarely talked about moment in history.
Second Falconer book I have read, and not my last
April 28, 2025
Great book. Fascinating history, which apparently is accurately portrayed.
October 23, 2024
The book was too long and at times boring. The mechanics of good writing were fine. A few errors did not interrupt the reading flow. There was not a great deal of background on Cortes, so his character was not clearly defined. That is not the fault of the author. Through his lover, Malinali, a naturale of some Aztec descent, the story of Montezuma and Mexico City was told. She was a delightfully deceiving interpreter between the Spaniards and different Indian tribes. She and Cortes saw that their destinies were intertwined from the moment they met. The Spaniards were in Mexico to convert the natives to Christianity and to stop the practice of human sacrifices. The natives thought Cortes was a supreme god returned to rule. Malinali encouraged the latter belief creating all kinds of confusion. Montezuma even gave his throne to Cortes thinking he was a god. Cortes had to fight the natives several times, but Malinali told him the secret to winning those battles where the Spaniards were greatly outnumbered. Without her, Mexico's history may have taken a different tack. Behind every great man .... I wanted more background about the kind of warriors the Spanish were. Cortes' conquest started in 1520. Cuba was already a settled Spanish colony. The Spanish did not waste any time claiming their territories in the new world. I have mentioned the parts of the book that really interested me. I believe each reader will take away something different after reading the book. I have found that to be true in reading other books by this author.
Thank you, Mr. Falconer, for another good read.
I kept putting this book aside because everytime I starting reading it some injury would come upon my person. After breaking my other foot and having an unrelated emergency surgery, I determined to finish the book. To my delight, the author weaved his writing magic, but tread lightly and read carefully, fellow readers.
Thank you, Mr. Falconer, for another good read.
I kept putting this book aside because everytime I starting reading it some injury would come upon my person. After breaking my other foot and having an unrelated emergency surgery, I determined to finish the book. To my delight, the author weaved his writing magic, but tread lightly and read carefully, fellow readers.
September 21, 2015
The conquistadors fancied themselves saviours, bringing Christianity to a pagan world. When their results proved too unsavoury to accept in this light, they became reviled as monsters, destroying a vulnerable ancient civilization. They were neither. And they were both.
Colin Falconer has presented a balanced, realistic narrative, showing all involved in a more sensitive and much more probable light. There was incredible brutality on both sides, but the fascinating story is relieved by sensitivity, bravery, fierce loyalty, self-doubt and deep affection.
Cortes himself is much more complex than he is elsewhere portrayed, and the complex Malinali embodies the enigma that had to result when two passionate belief systems collided.
This well-researched book should be read by anyone who wishes to have a rounded view of a painfully dramatic period in world history.
But maybe you’re just looking for a good story. Well, it’s that too, so enjoy!
Colin Falconer has presented a balanced, realistic narrative, showing all involved in a more sensitive and much more probable light. There was incredible brutality on both sides, but the fascinating story is relieved by sensitivity, bravery, fierce loyalty, self-doubt and deep affection.
Cortes himself is much more complex than he is elsewhere portrayed, and the complex Malinali embodies the enigma that had to result when two passionate belief systems collided.
This well-researched book should be read by anyone who wishes to have a rounded view of a painfully dramatic period in world history.
But maybe you’re just looking for a good story. Well, it’s that too, so enjoy!
December 4, 2020
I enjoyed this book and learnt a lot regarding the Spanish Conquest of Mexico. The Spaniards were amazingly ruthless as were the native Indian tribes.
The one fault that I must mention is that the book needs more proof reading done to it. There were too many to call the book polished but not enough to distract from the story.
The one fault that I must mention is that the book needs more proof reading done to it. There were too many to call the book polished but not enough to distract from the story.
May 17, 2022
Cuando empecé este libro no sabía muy bien lo que iba a encontrar. Narra la historia del conquistador Hernán Cortés en el continente americano.
Cómo logró superarlos y vencerlos en diversas batallas a pesar de estar en minoría militar. Su inteligencia era abrumadora, así como sus tejemanejes políticos.
Creo que sí Moctezuma, el gran rey de los Mexicas, no fuese tan supersticioso, la historia habría sido muy diferente a lo que hemos estudiado en el colegio.
Cómo logró superarlos y vencerlos en diversas batallas a pesar de estar en minoría militar. Su inteligencia era abrumadora, así como sus tejemanejes políticos.
Creo que sí Moctezuma, el gran rey de los Mexicas, no fuese tan supersticioso, la historia habría sido muy diferente a lo que hemos estudiado en el colegio.
July 27, 2024
Se me ha hecho interminable, me ha resultado bastante repetitivo y era painfully obvious que estaba escrito por un hombre (ew).
May 10, 2012
The story of Hernan Cortes invasion and conquest of the Mexica natives was an enthralling story told by several narrators, with Cortes and Malinali as the main narrators. This is primarily Malinali's (commonly named Malinche) story and her perspective is useful to understand why she did what she did.
I enjoyed the way this book was written but it did take a little readjustment in the beginning, especially with the different points of view. It does work, especially since the headings list who is telling the story. This provided for a 360 degree view of the characters motives.
Settings are vivid, descriptive, and in keeping with the landscape, customs, and clothing of the times. The lush imagery and authentic dialogue places one into the setting and consequently gives an understanding of the motives for the main characters. Although some of the imagery is gruesome, it is necessary to tell the story.
The themes of religion,culture, oppression, ambition, greed, good, evil and love are all explored. The historical facts are accurate, as well as the use of the native language, description of dress, customs, music, and food.
This book would make for a fascinating screenplay and movie.
I enjoyed the way this book was written but it did take a little readjustment in the beginning, especially with the different points of view. It does work, especially since the headings list who is telling the story. This provided for a 360 degree view of the characters motives.
Settings are vivid, descriptive, and in keeping with the landscape, customs, and clothing of the times. The lush imagery and authentic dialogue places one into the setting and consequently gives an understanding of the motives for the main characters. Although some of the imagery is gruesome, it is necessary to tell the story.
The themes of religion,culture, oppression, ambition, greed, good, evil and love are all explored. The historical facts are accurate, as well as the use of the native language, description of dress, customs, music, and food.
This book would make for a fascinating screenplay and movie.
February 11, 2018
This book was terribly boring and the description was entirely misleading. The description led you to believe it was an exiting book following a female heroin. If did no such thing, it read as a poorly portrayed text book. I could t even finish it.
February 16, 2016
Awesomely realistic! Colin Falconer writes another powerful novel about historical Mexico.
September 11, 2021
Si me permitiesen poner una imagen para describir este libro sin duda elegiría ese meme en el que podemos ver un dibujo de un caballo en que la parte de atrás está muy bien hecha con su sombreado y la forma perfecta, mientras que la parte de delante podría ser cualquier animal dibujado por un niño. Y es que el libro es justo así, tiene un inicio espectacular, con muy buena ambientación en la que no solo nos ofrece descripciones visuales, sino también olfatorias y auditorias, lo que consigue hacer que te sientas como en la selva del Yucatán, sin embargo tanto el relato como la ambientación van perdiendo fuerza a medida que avanza la historia, con descripciones que se limitan a decir "era muy bonito" lo que es sinónimo de "me da pereza describirlo".
Y no solo es eso, sino que tirando hacia el final nos encontramos detalles que no sabemos de dónde han salido y tampoco tienen continuación, además de saltos muy bruscos en la historia, lo que me hace sospechar que ha habido algunos tijeretazos por parte del editor que no han sido bien pulidos a posteriori. Me da pena porque el libro tenía muy buenas intenciones.
Sin embargo, gracias a este libro he podido conocer mejor esta parte de la historia universal que tenía un poco desubicada en mi conocimiento. Claro está que este libro es ✨ficción✨ y no me lo he tomado como un libro de historia, sin embargo se nota que el escritor se ha documentado bien y el contexto que nos ofrece me ha permitido ubicarme en esa época y darme los detalles suficiente para entenderlo un poco mejor al buscar información adicional al respecto (y algún spoiler me he comido al buscar la página de wikipedia de los protagonistas).
La historia principal... qué decir... tengo mis dudas de que realmente fuese así la relación de La Malinche con Hernán Cortés pero, como he comentado, no deja de ser una ✨ficción✨ y la he disfrutado como tal. Una novela fácil de las que apetecen en verano.
A modo de curiosidad, este libro lo tenía por casa y es el que más tiempo llevaba en mi lista de "Want to read" aquí en Goodreads (desde 2017) solamente por el color chillón de su portada (en la foto no se aprecia lo chillón que es), pero el hecho de que fuera novela histórica siempre me tiraba para atrás cuando lo tenía en la mano.
---
TLDR: 3/5 estrellas por la buena ambientación y el contexto histórico, pero historia normalilla y mal ejecutado el final. Hace mucho que lo quería leer.
Y no solo es eso, sino que tirando hacia el final nos encontramos detalles que no sabemos de dónde han salido y tampoco tienen continuación, además de saltos muy bruscos en la historia, lo que me hace sospechar que ha habido algunos tijeretazos por parte del editor que no han sido bien pulidos a posteriori. Me da pena porque el libro tenía muy buenas intenciones.
Sin embargo, gracias a este libro he podido conocer mejor esta parte de la historia universal que tenía un poco desubicada en mi conocimiento. Claro está que este libro es ✨ficción✨ y no me lo he tomado como un libro de historia, sin embargo se nota que el escritor se ha documentado bien y el contexto que nos ofrece me ha permitido ubicarme en esa época y darme los detalles suficiente para entenderlo un poco mejor al buscar información adicional al respecto (y algún spoiler me he comido al buscar la página de wikipedia de los protagonistas).
La historia principal... qué decir... tengo mis dudas de que realmente fuese así la relación de La Malinche con Hernán Cortés pero, como he comentado, no deja de ser una ✨ficción✨ y la he disfrutado como tal. Una novela fácil de las que apetecen en verano.
A modo de curiosidad, este libro lo tenía por casa y es el que más tiempo llevaba en mi lista de "Want to read" aquí en Goodreads (desde 2017) solamente por el color chillón de su portada (en la foto no se aprecia lo chillón que es), pero el hecho de que fuera novela histórica siempre me tiraba para atrás cuando lo tenía en la mano.
---
TLDR: 3/5 estrellas por la buena ambientación y el contexto histórico, pero historia normalilla y mal ejecutado el final. Hace mucho que lo quería leer.
December 1, 2017
"AZTEC: the most extraordinary love story never told" - the Spanish conquest of Middle America
Many of us will know the story of the Spaniard Cortes who with a very small army conquered the Aztec Empire in Mexico. Some of you will know that he had a mistress who translated for him
This is mainly the story of her although we get to know Cortes, the emperor and a Mayan girl and her Spanish master / lover as well.
Even when you know the history of the conquest by Cortes I like the way the writer tries to explain why the Aztects lost against such a small army:
- They had never seen horses;
- According to a religious story one of the gods would come back from over the sea (I was thinking "earlier explorer, probably Christian" as according to legend he was against the human sacrifices) so people thought Cortes might be that god;
- The extreme hatred the Aztec invaders had forged with the other tribes who happily joined the Spanish;
- An emperor who is too hesitant to act.
Cortes his Indian lover really hates the Aztecs (seems we have the name wrong. They were called Mexica. In the book her father was killed by the Aztecs and she as a princess was sold by her mother as a slave to the Mayans. She sees Cortes for most of the story as a God but starts to have doubts at the end.
Some things in the book seem a bit free with the historical truth like when the emperor dies. But well that kept it interesting for someone who knew the general story. Although I am now wondering if I am mixing things up with the conquest of the Inca's.
Some of the secondary people are interesting too. The man who lived for many years as a slave amongst the Mayans and has troubles adjusting to his own Spanish countryman. The Mayan friends of Dona Maria who is given to another Spanish conqueror who really falls in love with her.
One thing I think is a glitch. How can a Mayan girl survive during a siege amidst people whose language she does not speak and who will know she was with the invaders?
All in all an interesting read for the historical side of the story. I somehow did not get a connection with Dona Maria nor with Cortes.
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Many of us will know the story of the Spaniard Cortes who with a very small army conquered the Aztec Empire in Mexico. Some of you will know that he had a mistress who translated for him
This is mainly the story of her although we get to know Cortes, the emperor and a Mayan girl and her Spanish master / lover as well.
Even when you know the history of the conquest by Cortes I like the way the writer tries to explain why the Aztects lost against such a small army:
- They had never seen horses;
- According to a religious story one of the gods would come back from over the sea (I was thinking "earlier explorer, probably Christian" as according to legend he was against the human sacrifices) so people thought Cortes might be that god;
- The extreme hatred the Aztec invaders had forged with the other tribes who happily joined the Spanish;
- An emperor who is too hesitant to act.
Cortes his Indian lover really hates the Aztecs (seems we have the name wrong. They were called Mexica. In the book her father was killed by the Aztecs and she as a princess was sold by her mother as a slave to the Mayans. She sees Cortes for most of the story as a God but starts to have doubts at the end.
Some things in the book seem a bit free with the historical truth like when the emperor dies. But well that kept it interesting for someone who knew the general story. Although I am now wondering if I am mixing things up with the conquest of the Inca's.
Some of the secondary people are interesting too. The man who lived for many years as a slave amongst the Mayans and has troubles adjusting to his own Spanish countryman. The Mayan friends of Dona Maria who is given to another Spanish conqueror who really falls in love with her.
One thing I think is a glitch. How can a Mayan girl survive during a siege amidst people whose language she does not speak and who will know she was with the invaders?
All in all an interesting read for the historical side of the story. I somehow did not get a connection with Dona Maria nor with Cortes.
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October 12, 2021
Painala, lângă Coatzacoalcos.
A pornit în beznă, ascultând sunetele propriei sale înmormântări.
Era al Optulea Ceas al Nopţii, când apar fantomele şi demoni fără cap îi urmăresc pe călătorii singuratici. Malinali zăcea legată, cu mâinile la spate, pe podeaua colibei. Coşuri de răchită cu păstăi de vanilie, aşezate unele peste altele, lângă pereţi, răspândeau un miros dulceag, înecăcios în cameră.
O bufniţă îşi întoarse capul mare şi o privi de pe grinda de cedru sculptată de deasupra capului ei. Ochii galbeni clipeau încet. Era un semn rău; bufniţa fusese trimisă de Zeul Umbrelor, Mitlantecutli, s-o anunţe că o aşteaptă.
Şi mama vrea să mă trimită din lumea aceasta fără să-mi dea măcar bani, să-mi plătesc trecerea pe tărâmul umbrelor…
A încercat din nou să se elibereze, dar cureaua îi tăia încheieturile. A început să plângă.
Mama ei voia s-o ştie moartă.
A închis ochii să asculte cântecele de doliu, bubuitul conchelor, tunetul tobelor huehuetl şi şuieratul fluierelor. A auzit pe cineva strigând-o pe nume şi apoi a răsunat trosnetul flăcărilor. Altcineva se înnegrea şi se prăjea pe rug în locul ei.
Geamătul Vântului de Est o consola. În clipa ei de cumpănă, Şarpele cu Pene, Zeul Înţelepciunii veghea asupra ei.
Auzea şoapte şi paşi afară, lângă colibă. Deschise din nou ochii să studieze umbrele.
A văzut sclipirea torţei de pin când au intrat. Erau trei. Îi cunoştea: negustori de sclavi din Xicallanco. Fuseseră în sat de multe ori; tatăl ei îi tratase întotdeauna cu dispreţ. Unul din ei îşi pierduse un ochi şi carnea rozalie din jurul cicatricei semăna cu unsoarea rece.
Torţele le umbreau feţele.
― Uite-o, a spus bărbatul cu un ochi.
A încercat să ţipe, dar căluşul o sufoca. Unul din ei a râs, iar cel cu un ochi i-a spus să tacă. Dar nu era nevoie, se gândea Mali. Chiar dacă ar fi urlat în gura mare tot n-ar fi auzit-o nimeni. Tobele de doliu astupau orice zgomot.
Au ridicat-o uşor şi au scos-o din colibă în beznă. Vântul gemea din nou. Şarpele cu Pene era furios.
A pornit în beznă, ascultând sunetele propriei sale înmormântări.
Era al Optulea Ceas al Nopţii, când apar fantomele şi demoni fără cap îi urmăresc pe călătorii singuratici. Malinali zăcea legată, cu mâinile la spate, pe podeaua colibei. Coşuri de răchită cu păstăi de vanilie, aşezate unele peste altele, lângă pereţi, răspândeau un miros dulceag, înecăcios în cameră.
O bufniţă îşi întoarse capul mare şi o privi de pe grinda de cedru sculptată de deasupra capului ei. Ochii galbeni clipeau încet. Era un semn rău; bufniţa fusese trimisă de Zeul Umbrelor, Mitlantecutli, s-o anunţe că o aşteaptă.
Şi mama vrea să mă trimită din lumea aceasta fără să-mi dea măcar bani, să-mi plătesc trecerea pe tărâmul umbrelor…
A încercat din nou să se elibereze, dar cureaua îi tăia încheieturile. A început să plângă.
Mama ei voia s-o ştie moartă.
A închis ochii să asculte cântecele de doliu, bubuitul conchelor, tunetul tobelor huehuetl şi şuieratul fluierelor. A auzit pe cineva strigând-o pe nume şi apoi a răsunat trosnetul flăcărilor. Altcineva se înnegrea şi se prăjea pe rug în locul ei.
Geamătul Vântului de Est o consola. În clipa ei de cumpănă, Şarpele cu Pene, Zeul Înţelepciunii veghea asupra ei.
Auzea şoapte şi paşi afară, lângă colibă. Deschise din nou ochii să studieze umbrele.
A văzut sclipirea torţei de pin când au intrat. Erau trei. Îi cunoştea: negustori de sclavi din Xicallanco. Fuseseră în sat de multe ori; tatăl ei îi tratase întotdeauna cu dispreţ. Unul din ei îşi pierduse un ochi şi carnea rozalie din jurul cicatricei semăna cu unsoarea rece.
Torţele le umbreau feţele.
― Uite-o, a spus bărbatul cu un ochi.
A încercat să ţipe, dar căluşul o sufoca. Unul din ei a râs, iar cel cu un ochi i-a spus să tacă. Dar nu era nevoie, se gândea Mali. Chiar dacă ar fi urlat în gura mare tot n-ar fi auzit-o nimeni. Tobele de doliu astupau orice zgomot.
Au ridicat-o uşor şi au scos-o din colibă în beznă. Vântul gemea din nou. Şarpele cu Pene era furios.
January 8, 2022
La princesa azteca de Colin Falconer es una novela histórica sobre la conquista de México que es probable que no conozcáis. Yo tampoco la hubiese leído sino fuese porque era un requisito de la asignatura de Historia Moderna de mi primer año de carrera. Cuando la leí, ya había dejado atrás mi etapa de novelas históricas y no he vuelto a ella salvo en contadas ocasiones. Pero me sirve de excusa para hablar del profesor que impartía aquella asignatura y que además era coordinador de mi carrera. La primera impresión que aquel señor daba a chavales como yo, en aquel momento de 17 años, sin ser él un hombre mayor, era de ser estricto en exceso, casi obsesivo compulsivo (nadie podia decir nada si él no lo autorizaba, nadie podía beber ni un sorbo de agua y si alguien intentaba entrar en clase después de que él lo hubiese hecho, era mejor que se volviese al bar) y duro. Después tmb descubrimos o, por lo menos, lo descubrí yo, que era justo, dialogante y que, tras ese muro que al principio parecía impermeable, se colaba la intención de enseñar de la mejor manera posible, sin concesiones y poniendo nosotros de nuestra parte.
Guardo muy buen recuerdo de esa y otras asignaturas que impartió. Y, de hecho, curioso, guardo los libros que hube de comprar para complementarlas.
Este me encantó, a pesar de estar yo alejado de la novela histórica y descubrí a la Malinche, costumbres extrañas de otro mundo y otra perspectiva mas allá de lo estudiado hasta el momento.
J.A.P espero que todo esté yendo muy bien.
Guardo muy buen recuerdo de esa y otras asignaturas que impartió. Y, de hecho, curioso, guardo los libros que hube de comprar para complementarlas.
Este me encantó, a pesar de estar yo alejado de la novela histórica y descubrí a la Malinche, costumbres extrañas de otro mundo y otra perspectiva mas allá de lo estudiado hasta el momento.
J.A.P espero que todo esté yendo muy bien.
June 23, 2022
I am very sad to say that I only give this book two stars. I loved the other 5 books I read by Colin Falconer but I just could not get into these characters. I hated every one of the Spanish characters , especially Cortes. Thats not really Falconer's fault. I just hated what the Spanish did to these people. Falconer's writing is still really good here but I just didnt like the people that it was about. I didnt like many of the Mayan characters either. I was frustrated with their decisions . It seemed that everyone in this book was nasty and out for themselves. The only reason I even gave it 2 stars is because Falconer still wrote it very well.
I dont think I have to love every character in ever book but, the people in this book made me very angry. I have given great ratings to books that had some vicious villains that I disliked, BUT they were villains that had flair or a tragic story. In this book I just found most of the Spanish to be horrible people and many of the Mayans were just as bad. I wanted to like this book so much. I dragged myself through the entire novel.
Oh well.. on to another Colin Falconer book. I am sure it will be great!
I dont think I have to love every character in ever book but, the people in this book made me very angry. I have given great ratings to books that had some vicious villains that I disliked, BUT they were villains that had flair or a tragic story. In this book I just found most of the Spanish to be horrible people and many of the Mayans were just as bad. I wanted to like this book so much. I dragged myself through the entire novel.
Oh well.. on to another Colin Falconer book. I am sure it will be great!
January 22, 2020
Another great historical fiction book by Colin Falconer
I enjoy historical fiction and Colin Falconer will transport you to the time period like hardly anyone else. I started reading Falconer with ”Harem, ” and this is the second book I have read by him. Obviously, it is historical fiction so the storyline between characters is surmised, however, the time period is brought to life with detailed descriptions of the surroundings, the food, the way people lived and filled to the brim with so much history I find myself consulting the encyclopedia, Wikipedia, and researching historical facts to refresh my memory on subjects while I am reading these stories. If you like historical fiction with some side stories thrown in you will enjoy this Author.
I enjoy historical fiction and Colin Falconer will transport you to the time period like hardly anyone else. I started reading Falconer with ”Harem, ” and this is the second book I have read by him. Obviously, it is historical fiction so the storyline between characters is surmised, however, the time period is brought to life with detailed descriptions of the surroundings, the food, the way people lived and filled to the brim with so much history I find myself consulting the encyclopedia, Wikipedia, and researching historical facts to refresh my memory on subjects while I am reading these stories. If you like historical fiction with some side stories thrown in you will enjoy this Author.
April 7, 2024
Well Done, Indeed.
Not an area of history (geographically) I know much about. Therefore, to have it covered so articulately in this tale was a real enjoyment. Look, this is ‘Top Class’ writing. All aspects of the book are of the very, VERY highest order. Bravo, and please keep these historical masterpieces pumping out each year; maybe something from each British Isles land (as separate titles), something each from the World Wars, American Revolution, Civil War and Modern Day U.S? (I simply cannot find enough of these books to read as I read everything available over last 2 months!)
Not an area of history (geographically) I know much about. Therefore, to have it covered so articulately in this tale was a real enjoyment. Look, this is ‘Top Class’ writing. All aspects of the book are of the very, VERY highest order. Bravo, and please keep these historical masterpieces pumping out each year; maybe something from each British Isles land (as separate titles), something each from the World Wars, American Revolution, Civil War and Modern Day U.S? (I simply cannot find enough of these books to read as I read everything available over last 2 months!)
February 15, 2020
Gods and Fate and High Drama
Enthralling tale of Hernan Cortes, The Spanish conquistador who conquered the Aztecs, and the native woman, Malinali, who translated for him and became his mistress. Fascinating portrait of Cortes, his ambition and the bloody battles he won against tremendous odds, and the woman, hell-bent on vengeance for the murder of her father, who believed him to be a god. As with all Colin Falconer's historical novels, it has completely immersed me in a magical world I am sad to leave behind. Beautiful and savage.
Enthralling tale of Hernan Cortes, The Spanish conquistador who conquered the Aztecs, and the native woman, Malinali, who translated for him and became his mistress. Fascinating portrait of Cortes, his ambition and the bloody battles he won against tremendous odds, and the woman, hell-bent on vengeance for the murder of her father, who believed him to be a god. As with all Colin Falconer's historical novels, it has completely immersed me in a magical world I am sad to leave behind. Beautiful and savage.
October 27, 2018
I know this book by its revised title: Aztec: The Story of Cortes and Malinche. I found the story of Cortes fascinating, although not as strong as two of Falconer's other books: The Silk Road or The Unkillable Kitty O'Kane. Cortes' first conquest Mexico City was unknown to me. How Cortes reconquered the city after barely escaping with his life is a true miracle. The story lags and crawls at the end, however, and the ending is sad, though historically accurate.
November 11, 2018
Great Reading
I enjoy reading this book as well as the other 2 books of Colin Falconer, as always I learn much more about Hernan Cortéz and La Malinche. Very interesting and sad at the same time, for me the Spaniards had a great privilege to know the Aztec civilization and they destroyed it!! Well that's history!! I invite you to read this great book so you can travel in time to the City of Tenochtitlán , México in 1519.
Bravo Colin Falconer
I enjoy reading this book as well as the other 2 books of Colin Falconer, as always I learn much more about Hernan Cortéz and La Malinche. Very interesting and sad at the same time, for me the Spaniards had a great privilege to know the Aztec civilization and they destroyed it!! Well that's history!! I invite you to read this great book so you can travel in time to the City of Tenochtitlán , México in 1519.
Bravo Colin Falconer
May 10, 2022
Another history lesson
It took me a while to get through this story, however once I was into it I couldn't put it down. Storyline is Spaniards v heathen tribes. Very graphic in parts but well written that you felt as though you were fighting along side of them. The Spanish greed for gold and converting the 'heathens' to the Catholic religion is very descriptive and sometimes brutal.
It took me a while to get through this story, however once I was into it I couldn't put it down. Storyline is Spaniards v heathen tribes. Very graphic in parts but well written that you felt as though you were fighting along side of them. The Spanish greed for gold and converting the 'heathens' to the Catholic religion is very descriptive and sometimes brutal.
October 24, 2022
La recreación del primer viaje de los españoles al interior de México, dando un especial protagonismo a la Melinche, no sólo como traductora y amante de Hernán Cortés, sino también como el cerebro que más influirá en el conquistador, que será parte imprescindible y que determinará el desarrollo de los hechos. Todo ello, siguiendo una secuencia histórica absolutamente fiel. Interesante, pero quizá le falta algo de emoción.
January 5, 2025
Definitely an interesting book, but I just didn’t love the writing style. I feel like Falconer took too much liberty and jumped to so many conclusions that the book felt way more fiction and less historical. I will say, i did enjoy how the story was offered in short tid bits that alternated character perspectives. Plus, this book has me inspired to learn more about Cortes/Malinali, which I’m sure was one of the author’s main goals when writing!
March 2, 2017
3.5* I didn't love this and never felt swept into the story, but I thought it did a perfectly adequate job. The changing points of view could be confusing, but they did add to the story. A map and longer author's note would have been helpful. The events covered were certainly horrible and the author did not shy away from them.
August 5, 2017
Aztec - an exciting story about the conquest of South American territories by the Spanish conquerors. It made me wish to read more and do some additional research about this subject. I really liked it and Colin Falconer, in my opinion, did not betray his style of writing; alert, exciting, without the possibility of anticipating what will happen next.
October 10, 2020
AZTEC
I enjoyed the historical aspect of this novel, the invasion, the way people lived, their beliefs, their dressage & Malinali’s role.
I really enjoy the way Colin writes his chapters, titled either by a person or a place 😊 although I was a bit overwhelmed with the varied names and places at times. An interesting read and I would recommend it.
I enjoyed the historical aspect of this novel, the invasion, the way people lived, their beliefs, their dressage & Malinali’s role.
I really enjoy the way Colin writes his chapters, titled either by a person or a place 😊 although I was a bit overwhelmed with the varied names and places at times. An interesting read and I would recommend it.
April 26, 2022
Sometimes you just need a good historical fiction novel to distract you from the world and this book was a good one for the job. I especially enjoyed that it was not the typical portrayal of the Mexican Conquest, and that it explained the much darker side of Cortes that people typically forget about. And the fact that La Malinche Marina was the main character made it even better.
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