Informative, a bit slow paced and combative toward a prior historiography but I enjoyed it quite a bit.

A really solid read on the Aztecs/Mexica, I especially liked the timeline of the book, and her examination of Nahuatl sources. This book is sound for an academic read, but also well-written, imaginative and really accessible for any reader curious about the Aztecs and how we study about them.

Since reading The Prince and the Coyote I've been really itching to delve into more Aztec/Mexica/Chalca history. Man did this book meet my knowledge seeking heart. Townsend makes this history both sweeping and deeply personal, sharing the stories of how Mesoamerican civilization affected the entire world and the stories of its select individuals. It's moving, it's shocking, it's fascinating, and if you're looking to broaden your historical horizons I highly recommend the audiobook. It was really helpful in getting my ear used to the proper pronunciation of all the people and place names. UGH THIS WAS JUST REALLY COOL 4.5 stars

The first two-thirds of this book are not particularly unique, this story has been told a number of times but she tells it well as a good overview for the uninitiated. Where Townsend succeeds the most in both content and setting herself apart from others is that she talks about the continuation of the people and their attempts to retain their history.