About the Book:
Title: Raiders of the Lost Heart
Author: Jo Segura
Page Length: 368
Publication Date: Dec. 5, 2023
Publisher: Berkley
Synopsis: Rival archaeologists must team up on a secret Aztec expedition, or it could leave their careers—and hearts—in ruins.
Archaeologist Dr. Socorro “Corrie” Mejía has a bone to pick. Literally.
It’s been Corrie’s life goal to lead an expedition deep into the Mexican jungle in search of the long-lost remains of her ancestor, Chimalli, an ancient warrior of the Aztec empire. But when she is invited to join an all-expenses-paid dig to do just that, Corrie is sure it’s too good to be true…and she’s right.
As the world-renowned expert on Chimalli, by rights Corrie should be leading the expedition, not sharing the glory with her disgustingly handsome nemesis. But Dr. Ford Matthews has been finding new ways to best her since they were in grad school. Ford certainly isn’t thrilled either—with his life in shambles, the last thing he needs is a reminder of their rocky past.
But as the dig begins, it becomes clear they’ll need to work together when they realize a thief is lurking around their campsite, forcing the pair to keep their discoveries—and lingering attraction—under wraps. With money-hungry artifact smugglers, the Mexican authorities, and the lies between them closing in, there’s only one way this all ends—explosively.
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My Review:
This is such a fun and sexy story! It has a fresh and interesting premise, danger, adventure, and intrigue, and a fun rivals-to-lovers romance.
Corrie has total Lara Croft vibes. A badass archeologist, she is one of the best in her field, as is Ford, who is most definitely named after the actor who played Indiana Jones. They both have interesting backstories, and they also have a history together. Rivals to lovers romances are one of my faves, so I loved the chemistry, bickering, and banter between these two. They also have an opposites-attract dynamic that works really well. Both characters are brilliant, and the tension between them is so well done. It’s a great blend of comical, exasperating, and steamy.
I love all the fun pop culture references and the discussions about archeology and their specific dig. I also like that the story talks about the sexism, double standards, and gender and racial biases that Corrie faces in her field. Corrie spent much of her career trying to prove there was more to her than her voluptuous body, and as a Latina female, she hasn’t had all of the advantages as Ford, who fits the mold in this male-dominated world. These themes are relevant and realistic, and I think a lot of readers will find them relatable.
With the vivid and captivating setting and a fun and adventurous plot, the story is so engaging, and the mystery behind possible theft and deceit on their site adds to the tension. It’s a fun read and a great debut novel from Jo Segura! I can’t wait to read more by the author, and I wouldn’t be surprised if this book became a series. It definitely leaves open some possibilities, and I would love to see how Corrie and Ford’s story and adventures continue!
Special thanks to NetGalley and Berkley Books for providing me with a copy of the book. All thoughts are my own.
Rating:
Favorite Parts:
- The romance.
- The setting.
Favorite Line:
The only thing that’s worse than a liar is one who tries to convince you the lie was for your own good.
Tropes:
- rivals to lovers
- forced proximity
- opposites attract
- only one tent
This romance wasn’t on my radar, but it is now! It sounds so fun! Great review!
I have to admit, I was sucked in by that cover. SO gorgeous! lol But the story is good too!
This was such a fun story! Glad you enjoyed it too!