In sixteenth-century Mexico, a fearless young woman strives to uncover the secrets her mother kept as the last Aztec empress in a sweeping historical epic by the author of Daughter of Fire.
“THE OTHER MOCTEZUMA GIRLS tells a moving and eye-opening tale of family, loss, and the consequences of colonialism that will leave the reader wanting even more.” –Booklist
“Folklore and supernatural touches blend with carefully researched history, resulting in an immersive, gripping tale about reclaiming identity piece by aching piece. Exquisite prose, pulse-pounding adventure, a lost empire, evocative setting details, and dynamic characters blend together to create a story that will leave an indelible mark on those who dare to follow Isabel’s path. Highly recommended.” – Historical Novels Review, Editors’ Choice
“Impressively original, featuring deftly crafted characters and an inherently fascinating, multifaceted storyline, ‘The Other Moctezuma Girls’ by novelist Sofia Robleda will hold an immense attraction to readers with an interest in novels that are a blending of magical realism and indigenous themed historical fiction. Certain to be an extraordinarily enduring popular pick.” – Midwest Book Review
“Overflowing with suspense and heart-wrenching emotions, Robleda weaves a riveting drama that’s a love letter to the beauty and depth of Mexican history.” –Liana de la Rosa, USA Today bestselling author
Following her stunning debut Daughter of Fire (2024), Mexican writer Sofia Robleda is back with another beautifully written and captivating tale that is her love letter to her native country. THE OTHER MOCTEZUMA GIRLS (Amazon Crossing; February 24, 2026) tells the story of Tecuichpoch, the last empress of the Mexica, through the eyes of her rebellious daughter, Isabel, who embarks on a transcendental journey through the valley of Mexico, to piece together the truths her mother kept secret in order to survive the Spanish conquest. It’s the first time a Mexican woman has written about this queen, and that her story is being brought to an English audience.
Tenochtitlan, 1551. Thirty years after the Spanish Conquest destroyed everything she loved, the last Aztec empress has passed and left behind a pristine yet tenuous legacy for her children. As her last will and testament is read out, her daughter Isabel suspects that another account of her mother’s life may exist, hidden away chapter by chapter in the Valley of Mexico. Following each clue, Isabel is determined to find out who her mother really was and to discover the secrets she buried in order to survive.
Joined by her siblings and a handsome young cook named Juan, the party embarks on a perilous journey to piece together the past―a journey that will force them to brave the brutal viceroyal court, face fearsome legends in mystical chinampas, and trek through desert, fire, and snow. As Isabel’s feelings for Juan grow, she confronts everything she thought she knew about her Spanish father, her empress mother, and herself. From the tunnels of ancient pyramids to the summit of an active volcano, Isabel will meet every challenge to fulfill an epic quest for the truth.
THE OTHER MOCTEZUMA GIRLS is the perfect blend of great storytelling, memorable and diverse characters, and a fantastic historical adventure that will leave you breathless!
To celebrate the release of THE OTHER MOCTEZUMA GIRLS, we are hosting a virtual book tour that begins February 23rd and lasts through the month of March featuring these amazing influencers who will share reviews, spotlights, and giveaways. We hope you will follow along:
Monday, February 23 – @booksandcoffeemx
Tuesday, February 24 – @lovemybooks2020
Wednesday, February 25 – @aneedleinmybookstack
Thursday, February 26 – @cassies_books_reviews
Thursday, February 26 – @katsbibliotheca
Friday, February 27 – @reading_is_my_remedy
Monday, March 2 – @marisolreadsbooks
Monday, March 2 – @carla_is_reading
Tuesday, March 3 – @coffeeandcuentos
Wednesday, March 4 – @bookalong
Wednesday, March 4 – @pocketsized_pageturner
Thursday, March 5 – @danish_mustardreads
Friday, March 6 – @laurensbookvibes
Friday, March 6 – @redreviews4you
Sunday, March 8 – @2manybooks2littletime
Monday, March 9 – @nissa_the_bookworm
Tuesday, March 10 – @bookgirlbrown_reviews
Wednesday, March 11 – @subakka.bookstuff
Thursday, March 12 – @juliarachellebooks
Thursday, March 12 –@booksnbikram
Friday, March 13 – @purrfectpages
Saturday, March 14 – @quilted.reads
Sunday, March 15 – @wutheringvines
Monday, March 16 – @mary.mary_library
Tuesday, March 17 – @wbtbreviews
Wednesday, March 18 – @sarahs.bookish.reviews
Wednesday, March 18 – @love_my_dane_dolly
Thursday, March 19 – @welovebigbooksandwecannotlie
Friday, March 20 – @gwendalyn_books_
Sunday, March 22 – @karens_library
Monday, March 23 – @dealingwithbooks
Tuesday, March 24 – @lexijava
Wednesday, March 25 – @books_onmymind
Wednesday, March 25 – @rebekahdolmat
Thursday, March 26 – @thepageladies
Friday, March 27 – @totahllybooked
