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A historical novel about the conquistador
Cortés and the Aztec princess Malintzín, by a “stunning” (New
York Times Book Review) writer.
Night of Sorrows plunges readers into the
conflicting New Worlds of the mysterious Malintzín, born as
an Aztec princess and sold as a slave, and her dashing and
ruthless lover-master, conquistador Hernán Cortés. As they
march through the Empire of the Sun to the shimmering island
metropolis, Tenochtítlan (Mexico City), Cortés advances his
cause by winning friends through Machiavellian conniving and
confronting enemies in merciless battle. We witness the volatile
dynamics and multifarious intrigues of the commander and his
temperamental compadres, and weather the heartbreaking inner
odyssey of Malintzín. Set at the twilight of the Aztec empire—April
1519 through the night of sorrows, la noche triste, June 30,
1520—Night of Sorrows explores the nature of slavery and imperialism,
prostitution, friendship, feminine identity, and the macho
ideal. Combining historical and fictional characters, Frances
Sherwood’s new novel is the story of a spectacular clash of
traditions, imbued with her characteristic humor and bringing
to life the colors, smells, and sounds of Mexico.
Frances Sherwood teaches at Notre
Dame University in South Bend, Indiana. She has written a
book of stories and three previous novels, including Vindication
and The Book of Splendor.
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