History and folklore intertwine in this YA gothic fiction book!
When Minerva’s brothers left her behind with their abusive father and hateful stepmother, Minerva knows she has to save herself. She finds a job with a rich older woman, Senora Encarcion, who grumbles about the president and current politics. After the president is killed in the rebellion, Minerva and her employer move to a manor called the House of Gardenias. Minerva doesn’t feel safe though. She feels something ominous around her and knows in her heart that something dark has happened in this huge house. After she sees a dark figure take the life from Senora, Minerva is terrified.
Likes/dislikes: The prose flows beautifully through its descriptions of the background of Minerva’s daily life. Senora Encarnacion imparts wisdom on Minerva with patience and kindness to help her become stronger and smarter in the ways of life. Ygnacio’s story intrigued me and I enjoyed reading about his background. Told in two points of view by Minerva and Ygnacio. I enjoyed the spooky atmosphere the author created.
Language: R for 14 swears and 8 f-words.
Mature content: PG for off page trysts.
Violence: PG-13 for bloody deaths.
Ethnicity: Minerva has brown skin. The viceroy and the rich family Minerva works for have pale skin.
