Title: The Lost Guardian
Author: Natalia Hernandez
Publication Date: October 6, 2026
Publisher: Entangled: Red Tower Books
Format Read: Kindle e-ARC
Genre: Romance, Fantasy
Something not too many people in the bookish world know about me is that my first marriage was to a Mexican man, and I lived for a year in Ciudad Juárez, Chihuahua, Mexico. We have one daughter, Annie. My mother was also a high school Spanish teacher and traveled fairly extensively to Spain and Latin America long before I was born. I ought to share the pictures sometime. All of these factors made me tell the publisher, “Yes, yes, yes!” when I was offered this title for review. I’m so happy I did because I absolutely loved The Lost Guardian by Natalia Hernandez.
The story begins in Los Angeles, where Santiago Rios works in a museum, not-so-secretly yearning to be part of an archaeological expedition. It starts off quickly, with Santiago learning of his grandfather’s passing and his last wish to be buried in Peru. The catch, though? His family is tasked with guarding the tomb of Atahualpa, the final Incan emperor. His grandfather’s ashes must be scattered there to prevent a curse from taking out a huge chunk of the population. Further catch? There’s a rumor that Atahualpa’s still-undiscovered tomb contains unbelievable riches, and tomb raiders are on the hunt for it. Santiago and the beautiful Ali race through the Andes to find the tomb before the raiders. Naturally, they grow close over the course of the adventure.
This story was one heck of an adventure based on the true history of Atahualpa. Hernandez did a beautiful job of blending facts with fantastical touches of magic. Although the story is told from Santiago’s perspective, he and Ali are both complex individuals who jump off the page. I was rooting for their story from the get-go. I did struggle a bit with Ali later on, but I count that as a commendation to the author’s writing. I was just super invested in Santiago’s journey and well-being. The spice developed slowly, and there was one open-door scene that remained respectful in its wording.
The Lost Guardian explores family legacy, cultural heritage, trust, and Santiago’s growing confidence as he follows his grandfather’s final wish. The writing is accessible and conversational, with clear dialogue and straightforward descriptions that keep the adventure moving while leaving room for the romance.
This book was the blast I didn’t know I needed. I highly recommend The Lost Guardian to readers who enjoy a blend of truth and myth.
Nerd Rating: 🤓🤓🤓🤓🤓— One heck of an adventure!
Click here to learn more about Natalia Hernandez and The Lost Guardian.
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I read a digital copy made available by Entangled: Red Tower Books through NetGalley, and this review reflects my honest opinion.
I’m reading this one right now and am enjoying it so far! That’s so cool you lived in Mexico!
I’m so glad to hear you’re enjoying it too! Living in Mexico was a real learning experience. I learned so much that year!