Publisher's Synopsis
In the late 15th century, fifty years before Pizarro conquers the better part of South America, the Incas are slowly expanding their empire to the north (into modern-day Ecuador). Through war or peaceful submission, it matters little to the Inca how they assimilate the tribes and cultures they encounter; for those they conquer, however, it matters greatly. Submission means being subject to the Incan practice of "mitma", which separates and relocates conquered families throughout the Empire, ensuring full assimilation without rebellion. Choosing war means facing the most prolific army in South American history. Chaxi, a young tribesman adopted by the Cañari people as an infant, discovers the Incas are preparing to invade his homeland. Trained as both a healer and a hunter, Chaxi's skills are put to the test, but not in any way he had envisioned. While defending his tribe, Chaxi develops a spy ring within Inca held territory and plots a daring mission designed to change the course of the war. The plot is discovered and Chaxi is taken hostage after attempting to assassinate the Inca General. While coming to terms with his new fate as a hostage within the royal house, Chaxi learns a secret that could change everything. Follow Chaxi as he faces war, and navigates the challenges of loyalty, self-discovery, and political intrigue within the royal house of the Incas.
