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Nick LaBounty Series #1
Aztec Odyssey: Historical Action Adventure
A treasure lost to time, a string of stolen artifacts, and one archaeologist determined to expose the truth.
The year is 1521, and Tenochtitlán burns. Wracked by plague and war, the majestic Aztec empire begins to crumble. As their beloved capital city falls to the ruthless Spaniards and hordes of vengeful tribes, the Aztecs make a last-ditch attempt to secretly save their heritage before it’s lost to the sands of time forever.
Meanwhile in the modern day, a string of high-profile robberies lays waste to archaeological sites and museums across Mesoamerica, overshadowed by a brewing nationalistic fervor which threatens to topple already fragile countries. Rumors say the artifacts hold the secret to a legendary myth—The Seven Cities of Cibola—which has concealed countless treasures for centuries.
Faced with unraveling the mysteries of both the present and the past, aspiring archaeologist Nick LaBounty embarks on a dangerous mission to solve a long-held family mystery and discover the truth behind the stolen artifacts.
He soon finds his fate irreversibly entangled with a civilization from over five hundred years ago. But time is running out, and the future of both a fabulous treasure—and all Central America—teeters precariously in the balance.
The year is 1521, and Tenochtitlán burns. Wracked by plague and war, the majestic Aztec empire begins to crumble. As their beloved capital city falls to the ruthless Spaniards and hordes of vengeful tribes, the Aztecs make a last-ditch attempt to secretly save their heritage before it’s lost to the sands of time forever.
Meanwhile in the modern day, a string of high-profile robberies lays waste to archaeological sites and museums across Mesoamerica, overshadowed by a brewing nationalistic fervor which threatens to topple already fragile countries. Rumors say the artifacts hold the secret to a legendary myth—The Seven Cities of Cibola—which has concealed countless treasures for centuries.
Faced with unraveling the mysteries of both the present and the past, aspiring archaeologist Nick LaBounty embarks on a dangerous mission to solve a long-held family mystery and discover the truth behind the stolen artifacts.
He soon finds his fate irreversibly entangled with a civilization from over five hundred years ago. But time is running out, and the future of both a fabulous treasure—and all Central America—teeters precariously in the balance.
426 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 16, 2020
972 people are currently reading
392 people want to read
About the author
Jay C. LaBarge
4 books15 followersArcheological Action-Adventure author Jay LaBarge expertly blends unsolved historical mysteries with plausible, real-world outcomes. In page-turning fashion, he immerses readers in the ancient past and turbulent present. Journey along with everyman Nick LaBounty as he attempts to unravel long-held secrets and myths through keen insight, good science, and a touch of luck.
A businessman by profession but historian by passion, Jay and his wife Sandy raised their daughters Ashley and Kara in Central New York, with frequent trips to his childhood home in the Adirondack Mountains. He continues to pursue his love of ancient and world history by traveling with his wife to historically significant destinations both domestically and abroad.
A businessman by profession but historian by passion, Jay and his wife Sandy raised their daughters Ashley and Kara in Central New York, with frequent trips to his childhood home in the Adirondack Mountains. He continues to pursue his love of ancient and world history by traveling with his wife to historically significant destinations both domestically and abroad.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
September 26, 2021
Powerful. Spellbounding. Intriguing. Wow!
What research went into this book! A father dies but the sons are suspicious. The family vacations as boys take on a new meaning. I learned more about Mesoamerica reading this novel than ever before.
This is a mystery upon mystery. I was hooked from the first and stayed that way to the end. If you find Navajo novels interesting, you'll love this book. If you like archeology based books, you'll love this book. The history of the Aztecs and the invasion of th he Spaniards are seamlessly woven into this story.
I did report several text errors... The kind not easily found with a spellchecker...such as insure when it should be ensure, two words instead of one such as fore bearers instead of forebearers. None reduce the story even a little bit.
The characters are beautifully written. The scenes and settings remind me of Louis Lamour who accurately described the settings in his Westerns because he had been there. I feel that Mr. LaBarge did the same.
I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK.
What research went into this book! A father dies but the sons are suspicious. The family vacations as boys take on a new meaning. I learned more about Mesoamerica reading this novel than ever before.
This is a mystery upon mystery. I was hooked from the first and stayed that way to the end. If you find Navajo novels interesting, you'll love this book. If you like archeology based books, you'll love this book. The history of the Aztecs and the invasion of th he Spaniards are seamlessly woven into this story.
I did report several text errors... The kind not easily found with a spellchecker...such as insure when it should be ensure, two words instead of one such as fore bearers instead of forebearers. None reduce the story even a little bit.
The characters are beautifully written. The scenes and settings remind me of Louis Lamour who accurately described the settings in his Westerns because he had been there. I feel that Mr. LaBarge did the same.
I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK.
January 4, 2025
This is a fascinating story. Nick's father searched the Southwest for years, seeking Aztek materials. Then he dies, in suspicious circumstances. Nick sets out to find what Dad sought, along the way linking up with a Najaho woman, Soba, who speaks many languages. In Mexico a drug lord intent on rebuilding Aztek power, accumulates masks, jewels and other found objects. Naturally Nick and the druggies will collide. Paralleling this story is the quest of a group of Aztek in the 16th century to evade the Spanish conquering forces and save items which will record their history. This story is picked up at the end of the book as well.
I liked the story and learned a lot about the Spanish invasion of Mexico and incursions into the Southest. At times I felt the presentation could be trimmed a bit. But it kept me focused and anxious to learn what would happen.
I liked the story and learned a lot about the Spanish invasion of Mexico and incursions into the Southest. At times I felt the presentation could be trimmed a bit. But it kept me focused and anxious to learn what would happen.
November 22, 2022
Wallk the long hidden path to find The Aztecs
A mighty tale of a Grandiose People who sacrificed people to appease their Angry God and took a long ewalk to hide everything from the Spaniards and to preserve their existence. They lived and mattered. The story was inspiring if just a story, but it reminds us that every succeeding group will be remembered for what they accomplished and passed on. I loved this tale told in 2 very different times with two Similar leaders. And the end, a surprise saves many lives, while the people remember those who lived and died today and many centuries ago.
A mighty tale of a Grandiose People who sacrificed people to appease their Angry God and took a long ewalk to hide everything from the Spaniards and to preserve their existence. They lived and mattered. The story was inspiring if just a story, but it reminds us that every succeeding group will be remembered for what they accomplished and passed on. I loved this tale told in 2 very different times with two Similar leaders. And the end, a surprise saves many lives, while the people remember those who lived and died today and many centuries ago.
December 8, 2022
Performance: ***
Story: **
Nick, a presumed archeologist in Mesoamerican migrations (an apparent excuse to info dump historical tid-bits for the reader but little else) with his new indigenous girlfriend investigates the death of his treasure hunter dad. A big bad drug runner dreams of restoring the Aztec empire beyond its historical boundaries. A legendary Aztec treasure, long hidden from Conquistadors … this story has all of the elements for a fun and interesting diversion ...
I did NOT expect the drama (I was hoping for something more like a Cussler action story). The historical POV was mostly as expected, with a little moral preaching that was a blatant appeal to emotion, but over all pretty decent if you don’t mind revisionist history. The current day POV (the bulk of the story) was a frat party drama that was totally unexpected and didn’t really appeal to me much. Not only was there way too much trivial detail and pointless dialogue … which made the story drag significantly (hard to skim over these as an audiobook, but you can tune out a bit). Seriously … we don’t need all of that background for each character dumped on us all at once (and we def don’t need you to repeat it later). I suppose that could be somewhat expected in what amounts to an origin story for the main protagonist, but there are enough tropes throw in that the story comes across as a mechanical paint-by-the-numbers piece that was interesting, but lacked any plot tension to really pull the reader/listener into it.
I was given this free advance review/listener copy (ARC) audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
#AztecOdyssey #FreeAudiobookCodes #KindleUnlimited
Story: **
Nick, a presumed archeologist in Mesoamerican migrations (an apparent excuse to info dump historical tid-bits for the reader but little else) with his new indigenous girlfriend investigates the death of his treasure hunter dad. A big bad drug runner dreams of restoring the Aztec empire beyond its historical boundaries. A legendary Aztec treasure, long hidden from Conquistadors … this story has all of the elements for a fun and interesting diversion ...
I did NOT expect the drama (I was hoping for something more like a Cussler action story). The historical POV was mostly as expected, with a little moral preaching that was a blatant appeal to emotion, but over all pretty decent if you don’t mind revisionist history. The current day POV (the bulk of the story) was a frat party drama that was totally unexpected and didn’t really appeal to me much. Not only was there way too much trivial detail and pointless dialogue … which made the story drag significantly (hard to skim over these as an audiobook, but you can tune out a bit). Seriously … we don’t need all of that background for each character dumped on us all at once (and we def don’t need you to repeat it later). I suppose that could be somewhat expected in what amounts to an origin story for the main protagonist, but there are enough tropes throw in that the story comes across as a mechanical paint-by-the-numbers piece that was interesting, but lacked any plot tension to really pull the reader/listener into it.
I was given this free advance review/listener copy (ARC) audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
#AztecOdyssey #FreeAudiobookCodes #KindleUnlimited
July 22, 2023
What an incredible story!
I loved the interweaving of the two narratives with the only surviving son of Montezuma 500 years ago setting out to save his Aztec heritage and legacy from the Spaniards, and the one set in the present where an aspiring archeologist is compelled by his family history to find what was hidden.
I felt so conflicted reading how one half of my ancestors subjugated and destroyed the culture and civilization of the other half of my ancestors. So much death and destruction was overwhelming and disheartening.
I would love for this story to be true, that the Aztecs were able to save their treasure from the greedy Spaniards.
I loved the interweaving of the two narratives with the only surviving son of Montezuma 500 years ago setting out to save his Aztec heritage and legacy from the Spaniards, and the one set in the present where an aspiring archeologist is compelled by his family history to find what was hidden.
I felt so conflicted reading how one half of my ancestors subjugated and destroyed the culture and civilization of the other half of my ancestors. So much death and destruction was overwhelming and disheartening.
I would love for this story to be true, that the Aztecs were able to save their treasure from the greedy Spaniards.
April 28, 2021
There are many theories about the lives and subsequent demise of the Aztec people. This writing stays within the reasonable boundaries of all the popular theories and injects a little extra with the introduction of Nick and his brother. Good read. Very well projected and not too outlandish. I usually do not read novels, but occasionally I come across something that peeks my interest and I’m glad I did read it. Try it and I feel it will not disappoint anyone.
June 23, 2022
an unexpected gem
I don’t know why I selected this book, what drew me to it , but I am certainly glad it did. The history and story are so exquisitely intertwined, the characters so well written you feel like your walking the trail right along with them. An epic tale connected thru the centuries connecting the characters past and present to a wonderful climactic end.
Labarge certainly has a gift!
I don’t know why I selected this book, what drew me to it , but I am certainly glad it did. The history and story are so exquisitely intertwined, the characters so well written you feel like your walking the trail right along with them. An epic tale connected thru the centuries connecting the characters past and present to a wonderful climactic end.
Labarge certainly has a gift!
July 5, 2024
Great storyteller. Great odyssey.
With my family descendants of the Mayflower, I knew that many civilizations existed and thrived well before that landing, and brought with it changes and devastations. This story helps bring one of them to life in a great story…while showing that the change, and yes, devastation still continue! A sobering engrossing adventure and a joy to read.
With my family descendants of the Mayflower, I knew that many civilizations existed and thrived well before that landing, and brought with it changes and devastations. This story helps bring one of them to life in a great story…while showing that the change, and yes, devastation still continue! A sobering engrossing adventure and a joy to read.
June 27, 2025
Aztec Odyssey: Historical Action Adventure (Nick LaBounty Series Book 1). by Jay C. LaBarge, Kindle Edition
"...religions are like ice cream, they come in lots of flavors that are all good, so who could choose one over another?" p. 18
"Why is it you believe your gods alone to be the only gods? Why do you seek to force your beliefs on anyone that doesn't match yours? Can't different peoples, who grew from this earth in different places and different ways, have their own beliefs that help them make sense of their own worlds, to deal with it in their own ways? p. 57-57
The year is 1521, and Tenochtitlán burns. Wracked by plague and war, the majestic Aztec empire begins to crumble. As their beloved capital city falls to the ruthless Hernán Cortéz and hordes of vengeful tribes, the Aztecs make a last-ditch attempt to secretly save their heritage before it’s lost to the sands of time forever. Asupacaci, Montezuma's third son, is on a quest to save the Aztec heritage and treasure. He leads a caravan of warriors and Spanish prisoners out north to bury the Aztec treasure alongside their history. This is a last-ditch attempt to secretly save their heritage before it’s lost to the sands of time forever.
Meanwhile in the modern day, a string of high-profile robberies lays waste to archaeological sites and museums across Mesoamerica, overshadowed by a brewing nationalistic fervor which threatens to topple already fragile Mexico. Rumors say the artifacts hold the secret to a legendary myth - The Seven Cities of Cibola - which has concealed countless treasures for centuries.
After there sudden death of his father, Albert (Al) LaBounty, and faced with unravelling the mysteries of both the present and the past, archaeologist Nick LaBounty embarks on a dangerous mission to solve a long-held family mystery and discover the truth behind the stolen artifacts.
Along the way he meets his soulmate - Soba (Altsoba) and her wolf/dog, Nanook. Soba is a Navajo linguist expert and key to helping decipher the Aztec and Navajo clues that are left by Nick's father. Nick is subjected to a peyote ritual where he visualizes how his father was killed for clues that were stolen by Mexican drug cartel kingpin, Eztli (Esteban) Gonzalez, and were hidden in the one journal that they stole from Al's cabin.
He soon finds his fate irreversibly entangled with a civilization from over five hundred years ago. But time is running out, and the future of both a fabulous treasure - and all Central America - teeters precariously in the balance. Will he able to solve the clues before he loses his soulmate and his own life?
A treasure lost to time, a string of stolen artifacts, and one archaeologist determined to expose the truth.
This dual timed narration - the sixteenth century Aztecs, and the present time - is narrated from the third person point of view. Vivid characters, an amazing, well researched plot, make this a fast paced, fascinating book. It reads easily and its hard to put down. I loved the book and recommend it to anyone who enjoys a historical fiction thriller!
"...religions are like ice cream, they come in lots of flavors that are all good, so who could choose one over another?" p. 18
"Why is it you believe your gods alone to be the only gods? Why do you seek to force your beliefs on anyone that doesn't match yours? Can't different peoples, who grew from this earth in different places and different ways, have their own beliefs that help them make sense of their own worlds, to deal with it in their own ways? p. 57-57
The year is 1521, and Tenochtitlán burns. Wracked by plague and war, the majestic Aztec empire begins to crumble. As their beloved capital city falls to the ruthless Hernán Cortéz and hordes of vengeful tribes, the Aztecs make a last-ditch attempt to secretly save their heritage before it’s lost to the sands of time forever. Asupacaci, Montezuma's third son, is on a quest to save the Aztec heritage and treasure. He leads a caravan of warriors and Spanish prisoners out north to bury the Aztec treasure alongside their history. This is a last-ditch attempt to secretly save their heritage before it’s lost to the sands of time forever.
Meanwhile in the modern day, a string of high-profile robberies lays waste to archaeological sites and museums across Mesoamerica, overshadowed by a brewing nationalistic fervor which threatens to topple already fragile Mexico. Rumors say the artifacts hold the secret to a legendary myth - The Seven Cities of Cibola - which has concealed countless treasures for centuries.
After there sudden death of his father, Albert (Al) LaBounty, and faced with unravelling the mysteries of both the present and the past, archaeologist Nick LaBounty embarks on a dangerous mission to solve a long-held family mystery and discover the truth behind the stolen artifacts.
Along the way he meets his soulmate - Soba (Altsoba) and her wolf/dog, Nanook. Soba is a Navajo linguist expert and key to helping decipher the Aztec and Navajo clues that are left by Nick's father. Nick is subjected to a peyote ritual where he visualizes how his father was killed for clues that were stolen by Mexican drug cartel kingpin, Eztli (Esteban) Gonzalez, and were hidden in the one journal that they stole from Al's cabin.
He soon finds his fate irreversibly entangled with a civilization from over five hundred years ago. But time is running out, and the future of both a fabulous treasure - and all Central America - teeters precariously in the balance. Will he able to solve the clues before he loses his soulmate and his own life?
A treasure lost to time, a string of stolen artifacts, and one archaeologist determined to expose the truth.
This dual timed narration - the sixteenth century Aztecs, and the present time - is narrated from the third person point of view. Vivid characters, an amazing, well researched plot, make this a fast paced, fascinating book. It reads easily and its hard to put down. I loved the book and recommend it to anyone who enjoys a historical fiction thriller!
January 26, 2026
What It’s About
Aztec Odyssey blends two powerful timelines: the brutal history of the Spanish conquistadors and the devastating impact their arrival had on the native population, alongside a modern storyline that exposes the reach, influence, and violence of today’s drug cartels. The book moves between past and present to show how cycles of exploitation, greed, and power continue to echo through time.
Review
I found Aztec Odyssey a genuinely interesting and engaging read. The historical sections offer a vivid and often sobering insight into the arrival of the conquistadors and the tragic consequences for the indigenous people. It doesn’t shy away from the brutality or the cultural destruction, and that honesty gives the story real weight.
What makes the book even more compelling is how it connects those historical injustices to the present day. The modern storyline shines a light on the threat of the drug trade and the way cartels infiltrate communities, governments, and everyday life. The parallel between past and present — two different forms of domination and exploitation — is handled with surprising clarity.
The writing flows smoothly, and the mix of historical fact with contemporary issues creates a strong, layered narrative. There’s just the right balance of mystery, suspense, and action to keep you fully absorbed until the end. The characters are well portrayed too — realistic, detailed enough to feel human, but without revealing too much too soon. They support the story rather than overshadow it.
Overall, it’s a captivating blend of history and modern tension, with a storyline that feels both educational and thrilling.
My Rating
- Plot – 4 out of 5 stars
A strong, well‑structured story that connects past and present in a meaningful way.
- Character Development – 4 out of 5 stars
Believable, well‑drawn characters who feel grounded without giving away the twists.
- Themes & Message – 4 out of 5 stars
A powerful look at exploitation across centuries — from conquest to cartels.
- Writing Style – 4 out of 5 stars
Smooth, engaging, and well‑paced.
- Enjoyment – 4 out of 5 stars
A gripping, informative read with plenty of suspense.
- Overall – 4 out of 5 stars
A well‑written, absorbing story that blends history and modern danger into a compelling adventure.
Recommended For
Readers who enjoy historical fiction with modern parallels, action‑driven plots, and stories that explore the darker sides of power, greed, and cultural impact.
Aztec Odyssey blends two powerful timelines: the brutal history of the Spanish conquistadors and the devastating impact their arrival had on the native population, alongside a modern storyline that exposes the reach, influence, and violence of today’s drug cartels. The book moves between past and present to show how cycles of exploitation, greed, and power continue to echo through time.
Review
I found Aztec Odyssey a genuinely interesting and engaging read. The historical sections offer a vivid and often sobering insight into the arrival of the conquistadors and the tragic consequences for the indigenous people. It doesn’t shy away from the brutality or the cultural destruction, and that honesty gives the story real weight.
What makes the book even more compelling is how it connects those historical injustices to the present day. The modern storyline shines a light on the threat of the drug trade and the way cartels infiltrate communities, governments, and everyday life. The parallel between past and present — two different forms of domination and exploitation — is handled with surprising clarity.
The writing flows smoothly, and the mix of historical fact with contemporary issues creates a strong, layered narrative. There’s just the right balance of mystery, suspense, and action to keep you fully absorbed until the end. The characters are well portrayed too — realistic, detailed enough to feel human, but without revealing too much too soon. They support the story rather than overshadow it.
Overall, it’s a captivating blend of history and modern tension, with a storyline that feels both educational and thrilling.
My Rating
- Plot – 4 out of 5 stars
A strong, well‑structured story that connects past and present in a meaningful way.
- Character Development – 4 out of 5 stars
Believable, well‑drawn characters who feel grounded without giving away the twists.
- Themes & Message – 4 out of 5 stars
A powerful look at exploitation across centuries — from conquest to cartels.
- Writing Style – 4 out of 5 stars
Smooth, engaging, and well‑paced.
- Enjoyment – 4 out of 5 stars
A gripping, informative read with plenty of suspense.
- Overall – 4 out of 5 stars
A well‑written, absorbing story that blends history and modern danger into a compelling adventure.
Recommended For
Readers who enjoy historical fiction with modern parallels, action‑driven plots, and stories that explore the darker sides of power, greed, and cultural impact.
July 13, 2021
Aztec Odyssey: Historical Action-Adventure (Nick LaBounty Series Book 1), my first read from author Jay C. LaBarge Outstanding fiction, well-written with characters & a plot you can buy into with unexpected twists & turns. I look forward to the next book he writes. I HAVE FOUND A NEW OUTSTANDING AUTHOR and it looks like a new series as well! Reminiscent of the historical fiction of Blair Howard or Kate Mosse. “I received a free Kindle copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review." The gifting of this book did not affect my opinion of it. (RIP Marley January 20, 2014 - July 24, 2018).
February 3, 2026
Nick LaBounty finds his dad dead in ice in Michigan, law enforcement says an accident, Nick thinks otherwise. Nick and his brother charlie used to go on trips with their family looking for ancient indian/aztec artifacts. Nick goes and investigates and discovers that his dad was in fact murdered. He hooks up with Soba, and they end up in Colorado, NM, Mexico, etc following in the footsteps of Montezuma. Ultimately they find that one of the biggest honchos of a mexican cartel is hoarding ancient indian/aztec relics and was responsible for Nick's father's death. Decent story. the first part of the book covered Montezuma running from the Spanish and cortez, interesting.
June 15, 2022
Rating this book was a tough call. It was interesting but I found it slow moving. I found it heavy on talk and light on action. The main characters kind of meandered around Mexico and the southwest for most of the book. I liked the parts that took place in the 1500's but the parts dealing with the modern times, not so much. All that said, the final gambit or climax was pretty engaging. There were several surprises which almost made up for the slow build. Will I read the next book in the series? Maybe. Maybe not.
November 7, 2025
Aztec Odyssey had an intriguing premise that combined historical action-adventure with a modern archaeological mystery. However, I found it difficult to get past the numerous Aztec names and locations, mainly because I struggled with pronouncing them correctly. This sometimes made the reading experience feel a bit cumbersome and slowed my immersion in the story. That said, the book was not bad—well researched and with interesting characters—but overall, it felt average for me. If you're a fan of history and archaeology, you might enjoy it more than I did, but for me, it was just an okay read.
July 6, 2025
Five Star Story
I rarely give a novel five stars, but "Aztec Odyssey" is very worthy of that rating. Mr. LaBarge crafted an interesting tale. The initial part of the book dragged a bit as the author worked to get the historical background of the book woven into the story.
Once through that history-heavy section, you will ride along as the protagonists move their way through the plot. You will be harnessed to the adventure as the plot unfolds.
I rarely give a novel five stars, but "Aztec Odyssey" is very worthy of that rating. Mr. LaBarge crafted an interesting tale. The initial part of the book dragged a bit as the author worked to get the historical background of the book woven into the story.
Once through that history-heavy section, you will ride along as the protagonists move their way through the plot. You will be harnessed to the adventure as the plot unfolds.
July 18, 2025
This is the 1st book I've read by LaBarge and is definitely going to be the last. He needs a good editor or ANYBODY who understands punctuation! It started out OK with the description of a possible ancient Aztec movement north to what became the South West US. Somewhere during the trip, he totally lost his writing ability. The story was OK but, as I've already said, the punctuation in his writing totally spoiled all of it for me.
August 20, 2025
Transfixing
An absolutely engrossing and transfixing story of the history of the great Aztec dynasty and the invasion and destruction by the Spaniards in an attempt to wipe the tribes from the earth, whilst pillaging as much gold as they could , in their greed, take from these proud people. A totally engrossing story of the more modern day adventures to discover the true story and trace the marvellous history and magnificent artefacts which were left behind hidden.
An absolutely engrossing and transfixing story of the history of the great Aztec dynasty and the invasion and destruction by the Spaniards in an attempt to wipe the tribes from the earth, whilst pillaging as much gold as they could , in their greed, take from these proud people. A totally engrossing story of the more modern day adventures to discover the true story and trace the marvellous history and magnificent artefacts which were left behind hidden.
February 6, 2026
Not going to read the rest of the series. This one spent way too many words on the minutiae of the daily life of its protagonist, Nick, and his pursuit of his girlfriend. The story could have stayed on the journey to preserve the Aztec heritage from the destruction of the Spanish conquistadors. It would have been a richer historical account than the abbreviated one presented. Truly an opportunity lost.
February 13, 2021
Excellent Blend of history and current discovery
The blend of Aztec history with archeology was well done and made a riveting read. Not sure if the discoveries are real but it seems like they could be. Makes you want to follow the trails. There was suspense and romance blended in adding to a riveting story. Looking forward to the next in the series.
The blend of Aztec history with archeology was well done and made a riveting read. Not sure if the discoveries are real but it seems like they could be. Makes you want to follow the trails. There was suspense and romance blended in adding to a riveting story. Looking forward to the next in the series.
January 5, 2022
An excellent book, right in my archaeology/adventure wheelhouse.
Lots of Raider of the Lost Ark type adventure.
Terrific characters and wonderful historical insight into the plight of the Aztecs at the hands of Spanish conquerors.
The only think that kept it from getting 5 stars was the the first 30% of the book was a slow go...then it took off.
Hoping to read more in the series.
Lots of Raider of the Lost Ark type adventure.
Terrific characters and wonderful historical insight into the plight of the Aztecs at the hands of Spanish conquerors.
The only think that kept it from getting 5 stars was the the first 30% of the book was a slow go...then it took off.
Hoping to read more in the series.
January 8, 2023
A definite must read!
Wow,this book was amazing. It made my imagination fly. I laughed and finished with tears for those lost, hating the atrocities of those who stamped out history. The characters come alive, and the story has losses and wins. I am looking forward to the next book.
Wow,this book was amazing. It made my imagination fly. I laughed and finished with tears for those lost, hating the atrocities of those who stamped out history. The characters come alive, and the story has losses and wins. I am looking forward to the next book.
January 19, 2025
Excellent read!
I enjoyed this book very much. I liked how the main characters were developed over the course of the story, but didn't affect the pacing. I thought the dual story lines were a good way to provide even more depth to the story. This book definitely kept my interest and I would recommend this to anyone who enjoys historically related adventures.
I enjoyed this book very much. I liked how the main characters were developed over the course of the story, but didn't affect the pacing. I thought the dual story lines were a good way to provide even more depth to the story. This book definitely kept my interest and I would recommend this to anyone who enjoys historically related adventures.
June 25, 2025
All the detail needed to follow the clues
Worked an archeology site at Grasshopper in Arizona. Understand what you experience when you uncover a piece of the past and try to figure out how and why its there, and the people who used it and why did they leave. So many questions, so you just keep looking for the answers.
Worked an archeology site at Grasshopper in Arizona. Understand what you experience when you uncover a piece of the past and try to figure out how and why its there, and the people who used it and why did they leave. So many questions, so you just keep looking for the answers.
August 18, 2025
Part 1 was interesting it switched between the present day and the Aztec empire in the 1500's. The rest of the book aside from the epilogue is set in the present day, and more drama, too much drinking in bars, at times it was students out partying , the book was too long at times reparative and unintersting.
January 4, 2026
History or fiction?
This is an amazing take on history and will keep you entertained throughout. This is an inspiring book that speaks of determination when the odds are against you. Interesting! History or fiction? Regardless, it is very thought provoking and takes you back to another time and, essentially, another world.
This is an amazing take on history and will keep you entertained throughout. This is an inspiring book that speaks of determination when the odds are against you. Interesting! History or fiction? Regardless, it is very thought provoking and takes you back to another time and, essentially, another world.
July 20, 2021
Amazing
Well written story about the Aztec empire and imaginative details about how their leaders may have travelled north to hide their treasures and history. Present day archeologists and treasure hunters are searching for it and many people die. Great read
Well written story about the Aztec empire and imaginative details about how their leaders may have travelled north to hide their treasures and history. Present day archeologists and treasure hunters are searching for it and many people die. Great read
October 27, 2021
If Only….
The author has captured the dream of archeologists, the ‘meeting of two worlds’ as well as impact of greed. From beginning to end you will need to keep reading to find out if success is good or evil.
The author has captured the dream of archeologists, the ‘meeting of two worlds’ as well as impact of greed. From beginning to end you will need to keep reading to find out if success is good or evil.
November 7, 2021
Loved it!
There's nothing like a great quest to warm your heart on a cold night. Thoroughly enjoyed this book, well written and researched. I even shed a few tears for a couple of favorite characters.
There's nothing like a great quest to warm your heart on a cold night. Thoroughly enjoyed this book, well written and researched. I even shed a few tears for a couple of favorite characters.
January 10, 2022
Great book!
Long interest in the conflict between Indian and the Europeans. Being part Abanaki, with a degree in Anthropology. This was an engrossing read. Very well researched, best book I have read lately, and I read a lot of books. Looking forward to next in series!
Long interest in the conflict between Indian and the Europeans. Being part Abanaki, with a degree in Anthropology. This was an engrossing read. Very well researched, best book I have read lately, and I read a lot of books. Looking forward to next in series!
July 15, 2022
Super, super story
I liked the entire story. It held my attention from page one and found U hated when it ended. I would recommend this to anyone who enjoys adventure stories. I look forward to The next book by Mr LaBarge.
I liked the entire story. It held my attention from page one and found U hated when it ended. I would recommend this to anyone who enjoys adventure stories. I look forward to The next book by Mr LaBarge.
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