Review: A Fitting Third Book For A Great Triology
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 03 7, 2014
This is the third book in The Triple Alliance Trilogy, part of several books in this pre-Mesoamerican Saga. The emphasis shifts from the characters of the past to the offspring, who began to emerge as dominant characters in the prior book, The Sword. In Below the Highlands, three of the Highlander’s children step into the spotlight to push the story forward.Coatl is the golden boy. He’s been to the best of schools, received the best of training, runs faster, and has greater strength than his peers. He also is the star ball player.Ocelotl is Coatl’s wilder twin, having spent the past several years in the Highlands where his father grew up. He is the most like his father, already an established scout, a developing artist, and a fierce warrior.Citlalli is the twins’ sister, a spirited young woman who expresses her opinion and stands up for what she believes.The three siblings have been separated, but unite unexpectedly in Tenochtitlan .  Coatl arrives with the Texcoco players to participate in a ball game against the talented Tenochtitlan team.  Citlalli attends the game as a spectator. Ocelotl arrives from the Highland, unaware his twin brother and beloved sister are in area.Ocelotl establishes himself as the star of the game, but immediately lands himself in trouble after an enticing girl in the market catches his eye. The twins dive deeper and deeper into trouble, initially because of Coatl’s attraction to the market girl. They uncover a plot by some of the local religious and market leaders to murder the emperor and Tlacaelel, the head advisor to the emperor, and one of the Highlander’s best friends.Great intrigue follows as the plot unfolds. The Highlander’s siblings exhibit their father’s spirit and resolve. They’re brave and resourceful, and take on each challenge in a manner that would make their father proud.I read this last book in the series much like somebody blessed to be on an extended vacation, and does not want it to end. While most the characters of the past don’t make an appearance in this book, their footprints are everywhere.Ms. Saadia appears uncertain if this is the last book in the series. My guess is other books will emerge, as the storyline possibilities are endless. For what it’s worth, my vote is for more books following the Highlander’s kids. Perhaps Mixtli and the youngest brother can step forward in the next book (s)?This pre-Mesoamerican Saga would make a great series for HBO or Showtime.