Amulet of Ixchel: Cora Price, The Heart & Treasure Series, Book 18

Romance, Action & adventure, Historical fiction, Suspense, and Fantasy

Every Silver Gravity story centres women with agency.

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Some secrets are written in stone. Some are written in blood.

Professor Jake Harrington has built his career on cracking codes that have eluded scholars for centuries. When the brilliant but unconventional American historian discovers a series of glyphs that could reveal the location of the mythical Amulet of Ixchel, a Mayan artifact said to grant its wielder the power to commune with the gods, he knows he's close to the discovery of a lifetime. But the dense jungles of Guatemala hold dangers beyond academic ridicule, and Jake soon realizes that some secrets were never meant to be uncovered.

Izel Cocom walks between two worlds. Descended from the ancient Maya and raised on stories of her ancestors' mystical past, she serves as a guide to tourists and researchers navigating the magnificent ruins of Tikal. Her deep connection to her heritage gives her insights that science can't explain—visions and intuitions that locals whisper are gifts from the gods themselves. When tremors begin to shake the earth and the nearby volcano stirs to life after centuries of slumber, Izel knows it's no coincidence that a foreign professor has arrived asking questions about the forbidden amulet.

Reluctantly joining forces, Jake and Izel venture deeper into the misty jungles and ancient temples than any expedition has dared before. As they decipher complex glyphs and follow cryptic clues, they're hunted by ruthless treasure seekers who believe the amulet's power can be wielded for modern gain. With each step, the rumbling volcano grows more ominous, as if the very earth is trying to prevent them from reaching their goal.

For Jake, who has always found refuge in historical facts rather than faith, Izel's spiritual connection to the past challenges everything he believes. For Izel, who has vowed to protect her ancestors' secrets, the attraction to a man who would expose them to the world feels like its own kind of betrayal. Yet as they face temple traps, treacherous cenotes, and their own conflicting beliefs, an undeniable connection grows between them, one as unpredictable and powerful as the awakening volcano.

When ancient prophecy and modern danger collide, Jake and Izel must choose between the pursuit of knowledge, loyalty to their beliefs, and a chance at a love that crosses centuries of understanding.

Will they find the amulet before the volcano claims them all?

Perfect for fans who crave adventure steeped in ancient mystery, "Mists of the Maya" delivers heart-pounding suspense and passionate romance against the lush backdrop of Guatemala's most magnificent ruins. This standalone novel in Cora Price's Heart & Treasure series continues her signature blend of archaeological intrigue, cultural depth, and love stories that transcend both time and belief.

The Heart & Treasure Series — Action-Adventure Romance

The Heart & Treasure Series by Cora Price blends globe-spanning adventure, historical mystery, and heartfelt romance in an action-packed saga where relics of legend hold as much danger as the desire they ignite.

Join archaeologists, explorers, warriors, and rogues as they chase ancient artefacts across lost temples, secret deserts, and forgotten cities. Along the way, passion and peril intertwine — proving that love can be the greatest treasure of all.

Each novel stands alone as an exciting action-adventure and a romantic journey, perfect for readers who enjoy:

Romantic escapades woven into epic quests
Exotic locations and ancient mysteries
High-stakes action and emotional depth
Heroic characters whose courage is matched only by their hearts

Whether deciphering cryptic relics or defying merciless rivals, these stories deliver heart-pounding action and unforgettable love at every turn.

What Kind of Action Romance Is This?

This series is best described as romantic action-adventure combining:

High-octane treasure hunts
Ancient myths, relics, and lost civilisations
Exotic, international locations
Strong, capable heroines and magnetic heroes
Romance forged under extreme pressure

If you love stories where Indiana Jones–style adventure meets passionate, page-turning romance, this series is written for you.

If You Love Adventure Romance, Treasure Hunts, or Globetrotting Love Stories…

Readers often compare the Heart & Treasure Series to:

Indiana Jones (archaeological adventure and danger)
Tomb Raider / Lara Croft (bold heroines and relic quests)
Romantic adventure novels where love grows in the midst of peril

These books are perfect for readers who want action, mystery, and romance in equal measure — without sacrificing emotional payoff or thrilling stakes.

Story Tropes & Reader Appeal

This series features many reader-favourite tropes, including:

High-stakes treasure hunts
Ancient artefacts with world-changing power
Enemies-to-lovers or reluctant allies
Forced proximity in dangerous settings
Passion ignited during quests and escapes
Strong heroines who match their partners in courage and intellect

Is This Book For You?

This series is ideal if you love:

Romance with real action and danger
Adventure stories set in exotic locations
Archaeology, myth, and historical mystery
Strong female leads and compelling romantic tension

You’ll especially love this book if you enjoy romance that unfolds amid ancient secrets, perilous journeys, and unforgettable discoveries.

Do I Need to Read the Series in Order?

Each Heart & Treasure novel works as a standalone romantic adventure with its own central quest and love story.

Reading the series in order enhances the experience, allowing you to spot recurring themes, shared mythology, and the wider world of relics and legends that connects the books.

According to the Series Reading Order:

Sun God’s Heart
Eye of Ra
Elephant Tusk of the Savannah King
Sword of Shogun
Emerald of Eldorado
Norse Runestone
Flute of Genghis Khan
Jade of the Heavenly Maiden
Trident of Poseidon
Opal of Dreams
Scarab of Isis
Emerald Quill of the Alhambra
Stone Spirit of the Anasazi
Torch of Kukulkan
Mask of Casanova
Emerald of the Sea Serpent
Horn of the Iceman
Orchid of Eternal Life
Amulet of Ixchel
Chalice of the Templars
Crescent of the Nile
Eye of Shiva
Scarab of Isis

About Cora Price

Cora Price writes romantic action-adventure fiction that blends ancient history, myth, and high-stakes quests with sweeping romance.

Her stories feature bold heroines, magnetic heroes, and unforgettable settings, delivering adventures where love is tested by danger — and treasure is never just gold.