Since she is only 16 years old, she must follow the guidance of a Grand Council, composed of her grandparents, older cousin Chancellor Esteban, and a new friend, Naomi Turner.

Elena also looks to her little sister, Isabel, her friends, wizard Mateo, and Royal Guard lieutenant, Gabe, a spirit animal named Zuzo, and a trio of magical flying creatures called Jaquins for guidance and support.

At the end of the season, Elena learns from Quita Moz of the Sunbird Oracles that she will soon be facing a darkness and will be tested on her bravery and leadership; if she fails, she will never become queen.

In the second season, Elena spends time preparing for her test while simultaneously facing Victor and Carla Delgado, who have teamed up with Shuriki, who has her powers restored.

She spends the season preparing for her coronation as queen, learning to control her emotion magic, and facing down the Delgados' wicked matriarch, Ash.

The series' creator and executive producer Craig Gerber said: "It was very important to us that, since we were doing a show with a kingdom inspired by Latin American culture, that we get that right.

Emily Ashby of Common Sense Media described the series protagonist, Elena, as a "spunky Latina-inspired princess" and said she is an "excellent role model".

She said that while a few scenes might be "scary for youngsters" there are strong themes of "friendship, family relationships...honesty, fairness, and kindness" and called the series funny and heartwarming.