title: Barbacoa
author: Orrantia, Erik
description: Professor Diego and his team have made a potentially world-shaking discovery at their archeological site in Central Mexico― two Aztec skeletons lovingly interred. As they begin to examine the remains, the story of an ancient mystery couple begins to unfold. In pre-Columbian Mexico, a young Aztec warrior called Metzín cannot understand the strange attraction he feels for Tototli, a quiet slave owned by his family. Torn between familial duty and love for his “little bird,” Metzín becomes the target of a sadistic bully, both at school and on the battlefield. In the present, Diego and his assistant, Gerardo, dare to start a romance amid the conflicting forces of their families, religion, society, and work. With funding for their project in jeopardy, they must balance love with social disapproval and solve the mystery of the intertwined Aztec skeletons. And for Metzín―as war draws near, he must choose his destiny. Will he prove himself on the field of honor, or stay behind with his love? It is a more dangerous choice than Metzín realizes. Unbeknownst to him, forces beyond his control are gathering. It will be all he can do to survive the coming storm―and hold on to his love.