The Sunlit Ruins: An Old Gods Story

The Sunlit Ruins focuses on two Mexican American teen cousins who don't get along, but have to work together when they stumble upon magical creatures and deities, and get chased around Mexico City.

I really enjoyed Ada and Miry's journey. They are trying to figure out who they are and how to fit in when they are both split between two cultures. The two girls are often at odds with each other as they try to identify with different sides of themselves. I loved that we got to see from the perspectives of both Ada and Miry because we as readers get to see them feeling like they are falling short while the other one is perfect.

I loved the character moments between the two cousins, especially as they started sharing more of themselves and their insecurities with each other. They start to realize that they are both struggling with similar things.

That said, they argue a lot about petty things. It did get a little tiring, especially after the midpoint of the story when I thought they had made up. I guess it is realistic that there would be some left over arguing while they try to rebuild their relationship.

I also loved the adventure the characters had to go on, and the ways they tried to solve the puzzles. I especially loved when they were trying to figure out what was happening to them and searching the internet only to turn up AO3 fanfic. It was a fun nod to the fact that they are experiencing things usually only found in stories.

The magic was very unique and had consequences for using it. Both girls had to figure out how to use their magic and how to replenish it while trying to track down clues and survive the many obstacles along the way. The girls are going on a quest of self discovery while they are learning about the past in this fast paced adventure.

I found the ending very satisfying. As a consequence of the magic, Ada and Miry are forced to make sacrifices that will continue to affect them after the pages of this book are closed.