Unlocking Secrets: A Review of Death in the Cards by Mia P. Manansala
I don’t think I can adequately express the sheer joy I felt when I finally got my hands on Death in the Cards, Mia P. Manansala’s young adult debut. After reveling in her delightful Tita Rosie’s Kitchen Mystery series, my expectations for this book were sky-high—and let me tell you, it did not disappoint! From the moment I opened the cover, I was whisked away into a world that beautifully intertwines family dynamics, the supernatural, and a nail-biting mystery.
At the center of this captivating tale is Danika Dizon, a spirited teen who immediately stole my heart. She feels wonderfully relatable—combining intelligence with a fierce determination that just makes you root for her. Armed with tarot cards, Danika embarks on an unexpected journey when a seemingly innocuous reading reveals the ominous death card, coinciding with the mysterious disappearance of a client. As she channels her detective lineage, every twist and turn kept me on edge, staying up way too late, gasping at each revelation.
The plot unfolds like an intricate tapestry woven with family bonds and the complex shadows of secret lives. Manansala has an extraordinary talent for bringing her characters to life; I could almost hear their laughter and feel their tension. As Danika navigates the labyrinth of clues, I found myself alongside her, piecing together the puzzle. The authenticity in her relationships—especially with her family—adds so much depth, making the stakes feel even higher.
One of the standout features of Death in the Cards is how seamlessly the tarot readings are woven into the narrative. They don’t just serve as a plot device; instead, they add an eerie layer of haunting imagination that added to the overall atmosphere. I loved how each card read not just forward-facing but echoed back to the characters’ inner struggles and truths. It’s a clever narrative technique that enriched my reading experience, making me pause and reflect on the multiple meanings shrouded in every turn of the card.
My favorite moment in the book—without giving too much away—involves one of Danika’s readings that takes an unexpected twist. I won’t spoil it, but let’s just say it sent chills down my spine! Moments like these showcased Manansala’s ability to blend heart-pounding suspense with a sprinkle of the supernatural.
If you’re a fan of YA mysteries that are deeply rooted in emotion and family, Death in the Cards will feel like a warm hug on a chilly day—addictive in its pacing and completely immersive. I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone willing to step into the shoes of a clever detective with a knack for tarot. Whether you’re a longtime follower of Manansala or a newcomer in search of a spellbinding story, this book promises to leave you enchanted and craving more.
Thank you, NetGalley and Random House Children’s | Delacorte Press, for allowing me the opportunity to experience this delightful arc in exchange for my honest thoughts. What a journey it has been!
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