Reviewed by Rabia Tanveer for Readers' Favorite

Children of Kings by E. S. Ramirez is a fascinating historical fiction story set in 1813, Peru, during a tumultuous time in the region. The story follows Juana Azurduy as she struggles daily to protect and feed her family. She lives a tough life as a farmer, doing back-breaking work each day before fulfilling her duties as a wife and mother. However, this Herculean task pales compared to what fate has in store for her and her family. With the Revolutionary Wars inching closer to their land, Juana knows it is only a matter of time before all hell breaks loose. Her fear becomes a reality when strife with a Spanish commander destroys everything, and Juana has to pack up and run away with her children to survive. However, even as she hides her children, she fights for what is right, and she fights the authorities head-on.

I’ll be honest; I don’t have enough knowledge about the South American Revolutionary wars and their impact on the lives of people of the region. However, Children of Kings is a great educator that informs and entertains us. I am in love with Juana and the tenacious approach she takes in life. She is the go-getter, the problem-solver, and the person you look up to in times of trouble. In short, Juana is a leader, and the characters in this story know that. I love how no one looks down upon her or questions her authority just because she is a woman, not even her father. Some may call her relationship with her husband Lucero passive, but I call it a partnership. There is mutual respect there, and Lucero supports even the most dangerous ideas she has. The narrative style is combative, but it flows beautifully. E. S. Ramirez creates pictures with words, which made it easy for me to imagine what was happening. The ending is fitting and perfect for a powerful, commanding character like Juana. This is the type of book that wins awards and accolades.