Reviewed by Pikasho Deka for Readers' Favorite

Engross yourself in a world of magic and wonder with Gaia and the Mystery of Kukulkan. Written by Aniko Brang and Nancy Saros, the story follows a thirteen-year-old snake teen named Gaia who lives in a den with her family in Moon Meadow. Ever since she was a kid, Gaia and her friends were forbidden to go to the rock tower of Kukulkan. However, after Moon Meadow's Grand Wizard Mandihar takes Gaia's brother, Pharaoh, under his wing to enact his nefarious plans, Gaia and best friend Lucima set off for the Kukulkan tower. After encountering the legendary HOXD, Gaia somehow returns home, only to discover Mandihar and his army have launched an attack on Kukulkan. Suddenly, Gaia finds herself amid a terrible battle that puts the lives of those she cares about in grave danger.

Gaia and the Mystery of Kukulkan is the perfect book for young adult readers who love stories featuring extraordinary creatures, creative worldbuilding, and lots of magic. The world that authors Aniko Brang and Nancy Saros have built feels authentic and immersive. Full of mystery, adventure, and thrills, the narrative is thoroughly engaging, and you don't want to put the book down before finishing it. But it's the characters who will win your heart. Brang and Saros have crafted some relatable and likable characters you can't help but adore. Gaia, Lucima, and Kimba were my favorites from the bunch. The last few pages are action-packed, enhancing the stakes and making you root for our heroes to make it out alive. I thoroughly enjoyed the book and hope to read a sequel one day.