Do you even have enough brain space to absorb yet another new pantheon of outrageous gods? You might not have the choice. . . With The Storm Runner right around the corner, it’s time to meet the Maya.

Here’s our best effort to explain them using the gods you already know, love, and loathe.

Ah-Puch

(pronounced Ah-POOCH)

The skeletal god of death, AKA the Stinking One. Similar to the Greek Titan Kronos and villains before him, Ah-Puch carries a violent grudge against other gods and is consumed with the desire to bring about their destruction. You’d think, after centuries of reflection, these guys would learn to let things go, but noooo.

Ixkik

(pronounced Sh-KEEK)

Goddess of the Blood Moon. Unlike many other divine moms, Ixkik had a direct hand in raising her sons, Jun’ajpu (HOON-ah-POOH) and Xb’alamkej (sh-bah-lam-KEH). They grew up to be two of the greatest champions in Maya history. The Hero Twins could give Aru Shah’s Pandavas a run for their money.

Hurakan

(pronounced Hoor-ah-KAHN)

The god of wind, storm, and fire, and one of the two creator gods. Like Hephaestus on Mt Olympus, Hurakan is something of a craftsman. He’s actually responsible for designing the human body, although it did take him four tries before he was satisfied. And because he wasn’t quite happy with tentacles, you have thumbs!

K’ukumatz

(pronounced Koo-koo-MATS)

The other (some say cooler) creator god. K’ukumatz shared his valuable knowledge with humans many years ago before eventually returning to the sea. Please don’t tell Poseidon he’s there; Ol’ Barnacle Beard would lose his mind if he found out an even more powerful god was currently residing in his domain.

Nakon

(pronounced Nah-CONE)

The god of war. Big, burly dude who is never seen without his leather jacket and motorcycle boots. Loves a good fight and is known to be aggressive toward chosen heroes and demigods. Hey, wait a second. . .  Where have we heard this before?

Dying to learn more? Be sure to pick The Storm Runner by J. C. Cervantes, on sale 9/18!