Review: Love, maturity and political intrigue
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 06 28, 2013
June 27, 2013A Review by Anthony T. Riggio of The Emperor's Second Wife (The Rise of the Aztecs series book III) by Zoe SaadiaThis is the fourth book I have read by Zoe Saadia and her stories have seemed to grow on me and I enjoyed this third book somewhat more and have rated it accordingly, with four stars.I must confess, however, I failed to read her Crossing Worlds and consequently struggled to figure what had happened to all the characters from the first book in this series, mea culpa.As I was reading book 3, I had an idea that may be helpful to Zoe in her future writings. Because the names of the characters and the conflicting town/kingdoms to read are so difficult to keep track of (perhaps, my fault in failing to read book two) a glossary or listing of names with their respective roles in the trilogy "plus", would be most helpful to the reader.  Additionally, a map of the separate kingdoms would provide a perspective for those needing the visual reinforcement.I offer this suggestion to invite future readers and not let them be floundering trying to remember names and places, especially for a reader like me that may go through three or four books in a week.The Emperor's Second Wife is not only a continuation of an epic tale but one of the romance between two growing and maturing characters. I have to say the romantic encounters are done with respect and dignity and are quite moving for the reader. Zoe Saadia has truly analyzed the main characters in such a way that the reader is drawn in to the fabric of the story.  I have to say, that there was some confusion to me of the Chief Warlord and the old (uncle) Warlords as well as some of Kuini's newer comrades/antagonists. This is where a reference list would be most helpful.The Emperor's second wife, Iztac has become a most intriguing character and her role in the confronting the First wife is fascinating.  They may, in fact be cut from the same cloth as both are very intelligent, wise, ambitious and yet cruel; both are devoted to the boy emperor.I am not sure a trilogy will suffice to complete the saga of these characters and the ultimate formation of the Aztec kingdom.  I sure would like to know what happens to the "Highlands".I recommend this series to lovers of history and well developed characters and story lines but caution that they should be read in proper sequence.