'Age of Aztec' by James Lovegrove

The concept of this series may alienate certain readers, based as it is on the fantastic notion that mythical gods have become real, functioning entities. In the case of Age of Aztec (the fourth book in the series), the Aztec gods have arrived on Earth to implement their frankly bloodthirsty rule on the human race.

Ziggarauts have been built, human sacrifices are regularly performed and divine will is imposed with a cruel efficiency. Yet, in Britain, a masked man known as 'The Conquistador' is daring to challenge this omnipotence. In everday life, this man is Stuart Reston, chief executive of a major company and very much an establishment figure. He is a man whose vigalante quest is a way of dealing with his grief over the premature death of his wife and son.

On his tail is a young, determined police officer by the name of Mal Vaughn, who buries her guilt over her brother's death in alcohol and empty one night stands. The two of them enjoy a symbiotic relationship at first as Mal finds that her career, and indeed, her life are dependant on her ability to aprehend 'The Conquistador'.

This particular relationship develops predictably enough via an attempt at overthrowing the Aztec Pantheon. There are a few interesting minor characters thrown in by Lovegrove to liven up the journey - watch out in particular for a sexually repressed Colonel who takes out his frustration on the protagonists through a carefree attitude towards physical violence.

Lovegrove has constructed a fun thriller, with some interesting slants on ideas of divine rule between the fight scenes - some of which are so riddled with nasty mutilations that it is difficult to read them without wincing.

The high concept fantasy of Gods ruling Earth in the flesh is really just a thin cloak for James Lovegrove's usual themes of power, wealth and the corrupting influence thereof. Yet, it is interesting to note that the heroes of his books are often very wealthy themselves.

Indeed, Stuart Reston, a chief executive no less, is something of a Bruce Wayne figure and one sequence from the first part owes a heavy debt to The Dark Knight. His feckless, arrogant exterior hides a man stricken with anger at the gods for the loss of his young family.

Nevertheless, Lovegrove makes far more time for Mal Vaughn - a tough if imbalanced character who comes to the fore whenever fate deals her a difficult hand. She is a strong woman, yet full of insecurities which she hides from those under her command.

This novel is another volume in what is proving to be an immensely readable fantasy series. Despite a slightly jarring and abrupt change in the narrative when the action switches from Britain to Mexico, it is a thoroughly enjoyable ride. I would recommend Age of Aztec and its predecessors, especially for anyone with even a passing interest in mythology.

Disclaimer: I do not own the rights to the picture used in this blog entry and will remove it at the request of the rights holder.