Silver Nitrate by Silvia Moreno-Garcia Book Review

Silver Nitrate by Silvia Moreno-Garcia

Review

Moreno-Garcia once again hypnotizes readers as she weaves a tale of sorcery, Nazi's, and magic into her new book Silver Nitrate. Montserrat is a sound engineer struggling in a man's world while her best friend Tristán, an actor looking to rise back into the spotlight, only seems to talk to her when he needs something. When Tristán tells her about an opportunity to work with a popular cult horror director, Montserrat agrees, but soon, they both realize the project isn't as straight forward as promised. Now, they must figure out a way to survive a hungry evil.

Montserrat is a brilliant character. She throws away old stereotypes of females in distress and stars as her own leading lady. Independent and brave, Monsterrat perfectly counters Tristán's tenative and fearful approach to the growing threat. Combined, the pair complement each other while serving a dash of romantic tension. But while they're relationship tumbles in the friend-zone, horrors come to life, and they must work together to find a solution. Their paring is well crafted and readers will cheer for their success.

While some readers may find the beginning chapters just a tad slow paced, they will quickly relish in the mystery behind the silver-nitrate film and the cult associated with it. Horror pops out of the shadows at the perfect moments startling fans of thrills and frights! Readers who enjoy sorcery, the occult, and a dollop of romance will enjoy this book.

Thank you to NetGalley for my free ARC!

The Haunting of Alejandra by V. Castro Book Review

The Haunting of Alejandra by V. Castro

Five Star Review

Castro weaves a haunting tale of motherhood that reaches through the pages, grips reader’s hearts, and squeezes tight. Alejandra is a stay-at-home mother whose identity has gotten lost in the shuffle of daily mundane activities. Her condescending husband is no help as Alejandra spirals into a deep depression and begins seeing haunting visions. Desperate to fight her way out of the darkness, she consults a therapist and together, they dig into Alejandra’s Mexican heritage to search for a way to combat the growing ghostly threat. It’s up to Alejandro to face her demons in order to survive.

Castro’s masterful horror takes readers through generations of Mexican women’s lives and the struggles they endured. Each point-of-view digs into the women’s sorrow, but it also shines a light on their love for their children and a strong connection with their heritage. Alejandra is relatable; she loves her children but feels the heaviness and loneliness of being a mother. Her search for identity mirrors reality, and Alejandra’s strength transcends the page and provides inspiration for those also hurting.

The haunting story of La Llorona (a tragic tale of a mother who drowned her children) intertwines with the characters and plot using a fresh and compelling perspective. Horror elements terrify thanks to Castro’s visceral descriptions. Heavy themes of family, resilience, and motherhood saturate the pages and leave the reader wanting more. Those looking for an emotional journey of self-discovery will devour this expertly crafted horror.

Readers who enjoyed Nightbitch by Rachel Yoder and Full Immersion by Gemma Amor will enjoy the deep emotional journey of The Haunting of Alejandra. Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC.