An Aztec Mystery

As a book junkie, you know that I'm always on the lookout for new authors to try. Last month, I stumbled upon Aliette de Bodard. Her debut, Servant of the Underworld, was released October 26 and the sequel, Harbinger of the Storm, is due out Jan 25.

de Bodard is just one of the authors picked up by the still very young Angry Robot press, a company that's been releasing some fantastic genre fiction in both the UK and here in the States. I found this press release describing her fateful meet with the Angry Robot folks. Fancy that luck!

In Servant of the Underworld, first in the Obsidian and Blood series, Acatl, a high priest of the dead, is asked to intervene in a missing persons investigation. The suspect is his brother and the victim his rumored mistress. The scene itself is covered in blood, but there is no body. As Acatl digs deeper, using magic as well as his keen observation skills, he becomes convinced that the woman is still alive, but can he find her soon enough to prevent his brother's conviction and death?

Servant begins as any normal detective book -- but in an ancient Aztec setting. Fantasy elements become stronger as the plot moves forward, making it truly a unique blend of genres. de Bodard's research into Aztec beliefs and culture seems to be on-point as well. It's a really fascinating book and I can't wait to read the next installment. A completely original tale, an excellent debut, and another win for Angry Robot in my book. I definitely recommend seeking out a copy if you're a fan of fantasy and/or historical mysteries.