Anacaona, a poem and song composer is raised along with Behechio, to become a ruler of their people, the Xaraguá (part of modern day Haiti). She is popular among her people, and is also called “Golden Flower.” The Xaraguá, as well as the tribes around them are known as the Taíno, which in their language mean "noble and good." The Xaraguá live in harmony and treat each other as well as other tribes with respect. But when the Kalinas, a fierce group from another area attack and raid the Xaraguás and others near them, she asks permission from the ruler of the Xaraguás, Matunherí, to train warriors for protection. But soon Anacaona will see that there are more dangers out there besides the Kalinas.

After her coming of age ceremony, the cacique (ruler) of Maguana, Caonabó, expresses his interest in marrying her. Should she accept? Being a ruler and being the wife of a ruler are two different things. Anacaona has feelings for Caonabó, but is she willing to leave her beloved Xaraguá? Anacaona chooses to marry Caonabó, leaving the leadership of the Xaraguá to Behechio. Anacaona must adjust to life in Maguana; she is happy with her new life, and soon has a daughter which Anacana and her husband names Higuamota.

Just as everything seems to be going smoothly, there is news of “pale men” in another region. Are they threats or just spirits? Whoever they are, the lives of the Taíno people are changed forever. When these “pale men” frighten Taíno people with “lightening sticks” and demand more and more gold, Anacaona, Caonabó, and Manicaotex take action. Anacaona, Caonabó, Manicaotex and their warriors must use wits to defeat the “pale men” who have superior technology and weapons. But will they succeed? And if they do, how long will their victory last? Can Anacaona and the Taíno people avoid the “pale men” for long? Read this Royal Diary to find out!

The Royal Diaries: Anacaona, was pretty good and quite interesting. It gives readers a snapshot of life in Haiti before the 1500’s. Anacaona is a brave, compassionate, and strong figure that her people admire. The author does a good job bringing this part of Anacaona’s life alive. If you liked other books in The Royal Diaries series, you may enjoy this one. However, this addition to the Royal Diaries series has some violence and graphical scenes—I wouldn’t recommend it to younger readers.