Montezuma and Cortes by Paul Mc Mahon

Montezuma and Cortés is a historical fiction novel, whose subject matter concerns momentous events that took place in 16th century Mexico. It features many enigmatic characters, including Balam, the narrator, a man of mixed white and Native Indian blood. Balam relates the story of how his master enables Hernando Cortés to gather a crew, and how they all sail away from Cuba, landing in Mexico. Cortés and his fellow Spaniards, seeking gold, aim to move inland. But the King of the Mexica, Montezuma, as well as his tribe and others, stand in the way of Cortés and his band of ruthless followers. Balam’s personal challenge concerns his relationship with an Indian girl who is fatally tied to both Cortés and an Indian prince. Balam suffers the dilemma of whether to help the Indians or whether to play a part in bringing about their doom

Review

I thought Montezuma and Cortés was a very exciting read. There’s a wide range of strange and compelling characters, and, while their names are difficult at times to remember, there’s a helpful character list at the beginning of the book. The names of the Mexican tribes also present a small problem, but these are listed too. Plus, there’s a caption at the top of each paragraph that clues the reader in as to where the action currently is, as well as hinting about what’s next to come. The entire story, the journey from Cuba, the landing, the initial settlement and subjugation of the coastal tribes, on to reaching and finally taking Tenochtitlan, are all well portrayed. And the plight of the Indians and sorrow of their circumstances is conveyed with skill, as is the ultimate situation of Cortés. The complexity of the character of Montezuma is also presented in a well-balanced way.

I found the beginning of the book to be particularly impressive, and the rest of the story as a whole to be a fully engrossing read. From chapter to chapter, and even paragraph to paragraph, it more than held my interest, keeping me riveted throughout. One has to keep in mind that the subject matter is history mixed with fiction – mainly contained in its subplots - but the overall narrative, which broadly outlines the facts, vividly brings the conquest to life. A most enjoyable read!