Review Detail

I enjoyed this book way more than I thought I was going to. I've been loving these Spanish/Puerto Rican/Cuban stories so much lately - and this one has been the best so far! Our story covers 3 Bruja's whose stories are interconnected throughout two timelines. Delfi and Lela are twins during the "current" timeline (I say current because it's 2016 when it takes place but its 2023) and then Anita from the past. I loved the way the stories intertwined and just the magic behind everything. This book was so rich in culture and I just drunk it all in. I tend to read my books before bed (since it's really the only time I have) and I found myself counting down the minutes until I could curl up in bed and continue this story. Although, I figured out every twist and reveal there was in the book - it was still executed so well. I remember seeing a thing saying "Latin writers don't have to translate for you" and it's true but Vanessa - thank you for doing so. It was done in such a smooth way. There wasn't a direct translation for every Spanish phrase but it was woven into the story. It helps understand what was said without disrupting the flow. I love when Spanish phrases are still used throughout the book but the subtle translation does help a non-Spanish speaker, like myself, understand what is being said.

I loved these characters so much. Delfi and Lela were twins but their personalities are complete opposites. They compliment each other and it's clear how much they rely on each other. I was a little worried starting the book that the three point of views was going to be too much but it was perfect. Each side of this story needed to be told and I'm glad we got each. Delfi was definitely the more outward confident of the two. Embracing her magic faster and being more vocal about how she felt. Lela was more reserved but she had just as much gusto. As soon as she became more involved in her magic and learned that it was okay to accept it - she became confident in herself and it was amazing to see her grow. And then Anita had the biggest struggle. She was the heir to the organization that was not a good organization. I'm so glad that her story was told as well.

Overall, A Tall Dark Trouble by Vanessa Montalban is going to be the bruja story you need for this fall season - and every season. I absolutely loved this story and the way it was told. The interconnecting timelines was a definite must in order to understand everything. I loved the rich culture that was introduced in this book making it even that much better. Each character was so well written and so different in their own way. I highly recommend this book for anyone who loves strong witches, family values, and murder mystery!