La Morada

La Morada means a dwelling, a land holding, a ranch or hacienda, a deep purple which is referred in the story that takes place in Mexico. Two first cousins make a pact that the survivor will inherit all lands owned if a "mayorazgo", a male child, is not born, a Spanish custom. One cousin is married to a very possessive and unyielding wife whose purpose is to have her son become the mayorazgo for both families. Trouble begins when an accident occurs and a female child is born to one family with no hope of ever providing a male heir. Secretly baby Luisa is brought up as Luis doing the things a boy does. "Luis" is instructed in fencing and becomes the best in her class. This is important when she takes part in conflicts. But having a male heir or not, a plot is planned to ruin the estate of Luis' father. Night skirmishes, lies as to whom is to blame, constant fighting by shady characters and a murder keeps the reader entertained and wondering about the end. The author's description of the early life and customs in New Spain adds good insight to the story.