Book Review: These Vengeful Wishes by Vanessa Montalban
Sometimes, a book just jumps out at you—its cover, its title, and even the tantalizing synopsis whispering secrets you can’t resist. That’s what happened with These Vengeful Wishes. Vanessa Montalban’s enchanting blend of supernatural intrigue and personal exploration pulled me into a world where whispers could wield power, and wishes came with strings attached.
At the heart of this captivating YA fantasy is Ceci, a character so relatable that I felt her anger, confusion, and vulnerability right down to my core. Having just navigated the tumultuous waters of her stepfather’s arrest, Ceci is uprooted from a privileged life in Miami to settle into the strange town of Santa Aguas. It’s a world away from her comfortable existence, blooming with urban legends, especially the ghostly myth of La Cegua—a spirit more than just lore to the townsfolk. Montalban beautifully contrasts Ceci’s struggles with her new reality against the vibrant, eerie backdrop of Santa Aguas, a setting almost as alive as the characters within it.
I found the exploration of themes like the whispers of abuse—“Abuse isn’t always loud or physical”—resonated deeply, often reflecting discomforting truths about the nature of desire and consequence. Ceci’s journey into discovering her family’s dark connections to La Cegua and the curse surrounding it forces her to reckon with her own wishes. Herein lies the emotional core of the novel; the exploration of what it means to grapple with one’s identity amidst chaos is subtle yet poignant.
The writing itself is a masterclass in atmosphere. Montalban’s lyrical prose envelops you, painting Santa Aguas with strokes of magic and mystery that feel almost tangible. Pacing-wise, the book grabs you from the first page, and the stakes heighten as Ceci delves deeper into the supernatural realm. The narrative unfolds with a brisk momentum, each twist carefully laid out, enticing readers to turn the pages faster.
The relationship Ceci cultivates with her best friend Jamie provides a refreshing contrast to the book’s darker elements. The interactions are filled with humor and warmth, grounding the story amid the horrors that unfold. Plus, the moments of levity serve as a reminder that while the supernatural may loom large, actual human connections matter most.
One standout aspect of These Vengeful Wishes is its core message that often echoes through dark folktales: be careful what you wish for. As Ceci confronts the consequences of her desires, I found myself reflecting on my own aspirations and their potential repercussions. Montalban skillfully depicts this tension, making it a profound and engaging read.
For anyone who enjoys richly layered narratives that intertwine horror, magic, and coming-of-age elements, These Vengeful Wishes is a must-read. It’s a breath of fresh air in the YA fantasy genre, perfect for those wanting to explore how folklore can mirror real-life struggles. I was captivated and left pondering the nature of wishes long after I turned the final page.
If you’re diving into a folklore-infused world with deep emotional resonance, definitely mark February 4th on your calendars for this gem’s official release. A heartfelt thank you to Edelweiss+ and Zando Young Readers for sharing an eARC with me—I can’t wait to see what else Vanessa Montalban has in store for us!
Discover more about These Vengeful Wishes on GoodReads >>
