Review Detail

In Labyrinth Lost, Zoraida Cordova introduces a Brooklyn full of magic and mayhem, and a family of brujas that will charm and delight readers. Alejandra "Alex" Mortiz hates her magic, and her upcoming Deathday celebrations only add to the anxiety. I loved Alex's voice--it was engaging and witty, and so very smart. She's a girl who's figuring out who she wants to be, and who she wants by her side while she grows up.

Following Alex, we land in Los Lagos in search of her family, and Cordova's worldbuilding comes into full force here. Latin American magic flows through each new part of Los Lagos, the Deos (gods), and Alex's own encantrix powers. Cordova keeps the plot moving beautifully through Alex's wry, determined commentary. The conflict itself feels organic, mirroring Alex's inner confusion and fears, and giving her a chance to decide what kind of bruja she wants to be. Nova, the mysterious brujo guiding Alex, might be the weakest part of the story, though you do get the sense that Cordova might have more in store for him.

Labyrinth Lost is a journey worth taking, a story built by love and history and heritage in all the best ways. Zoraida Cordova has written a book much needed for Latinx and non-Latinx readers alike, and which will fuel imaginations for years to come.