While Hispanic countries share a common conquest by Spain, they have all developed rich and wholly unique cultures in the centuries that have followed. We’ve collected a list of five phenomenal fantasy novels that draw inspiration from across continents and highlight the rich diversity of Hispanic mythologies.
Sun of Blood and Ruin by Mariely Lares
It’s the sixteenth century in New Spain, and Spanish conquerors have decimated the lands. Mystical creatures that used to thrive have become mere rumors, indigenous landmarks have been leveled, and witchcraft is a crime punishable by death.
No one suspects that Leonora de las Casas Tlazohtzin, the prim and proper Lady betrothed to the heir to the Spanish throne, and Pantera, the magic-wielding swordswoman who brazenly challenges the tyranny of the Spanish rule are the same person. Her ruse – and her abilities – are exceptional, and there’s almost nothing that can stop her. Almost.
Predicted by a seer to die an early death and forced by an ancient prophecy to decide whether to give up her dual life or fight to her end to protect her people, she must find the courage – and the wisdom – to decide for herself.
Reclaim the Stars: 17 Tales Across Realms & Space by Various Authors
From alternate timelines to the magical present to tales of the moon and stars, Reclaim the Stars is a vibrant collection of short stories spanning the Latin American diaspora from Argentina to the Caribbean. Fight for justice during battles in space, travel through swamps that whisper secrets, commune with mermaids, and let ghosts send shivers down your spine as you join brilliant critically acclaimed authors like Zoraida Córdova and Vita Ayala as well as authors making their debut.
Nocturna by Maya Motayne
Finn Voy has learned to wield her magic as her deadliest weapon and her greatest disguise. She hasn’t seen her own face in years. And as a talented faceshifter, that’s just fine with her. But when her plans are thrown awry when she gets captured by the powerful leader of an organized crime ring, she’s faced with an impossible task. She must either steal a powerful relic from Castellan’s palace or lose her magic forever.
Prince Alfehr found himself heir to the Castellan throne after his beloved older brother was murdered, and he couldn’t shake the feeling that he would never be able to fill his shoes. As grief rips him apart and he obsesses over finding any possible way to return his brother to him, he finds himself growing far too intimate with forbidden magic.
When Finn and Alfie are thrust into each others’ orbits and accidentally awaken a devastating, ancient force with the power to destroy the world, they find Castellan’s fate in their hands. The unlikely pair must do everything they can to vanquish the power they’ve unlocked – and face their darkest fears along the way.
Labyrinth Lost by Zoraida Córdova
Alex is the most powerful bruja in her family. But ever since her father was stolen by magic, she’s resented and loathed her abilities. She’s fervently prepared for her deathday, as it’s the only chance she’ll have to rid herself of the magic she so hates. But when her ceremonial curse backfires, and her family disappears into thin air, she must seek help in the unlikeliest of places.
Nova is a brujo with goals he’s not keen to share, but he’s willing to help Alex for his own reasons. As the pair travels to rescue Alex’s family, their paths may find themselves in opposition. They must travel to the in-between land of Los Lagos, a strange place of mystery and confusion. As the pair explores Los Lagos, Alex uncovers secrets that will change everything.
Gods of Jade and Shadow by Silvia Moreno-Garcia
Cassiopea dreams of more than cleaning her grandfather’s musty mansion. She dreams of a life far from her small town where she can forge her own path. But she has no plan, no means, and no support. But when she finds a mysterious box in her grandfather’s bedroom and opens it, everything changes.
She’s unintentionally freed the spirit of the Mayan god of death. And he needs her help. He asks for her assistance in stealing the throne back from his brother, who betrayed him. If she fails, she’s dead. But if she succeeds, her wildest dreams could become her reality.
Accompanied by a terrifying god she can’t help but be drawn to, Cassiopeia embarks on a journey that will take her from the rainforests to neon lights to the depths of the Mayan underworld.
Whether you’re looking for extraterrestrial battles across space and time or wish to awaken the gods of legend, one of these books will surely find its home on your TBR.
Looking for more global folklore? Click here for a list of fantasy stories drawn from cultures around the world!
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