All of this is handled with Evans' considerable skill so that it never is reduced to a being a comic book novel. Evans has done her research well, though I did question how Magee could have museum artifacts in his home, especially ones made of human remains. Magee is, however, working for the museum, and they offered him the privilege of showcasing some of their wares while he does teaching seminars for them at his house. Still, the question of human remains persists. Those of Native Americans are always returned to their tribes. But in this case, the remains are supposed to be Mayan and, obviously, no country has come forth to have them returned.

Despite that question, The Sixth World had it all for me, except maybe a map to follow. (I love map mysteries!) But clues were still there, everywhere. Though the ending is left somewhat open for the other two books to fill in, the most important loose ends are tied up neatly. The second book, Trial in Jade: The Mayan Return, is out and will be reviewed next month. But the third offering, Kingdome Come: The Mayan Answer, will be out in 2009.

Margaret Evans has a real winner in this series. She is a remarkable writer, skilled in plotting an intricate mystery / thriller like this. She also draws intriguing, true-to-life characters, no matter how exotic they may be. Run out and grab a copy of The Sixth World. You won't be able to put it down!