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Camila Núñez's Year of Disasters
Cuban-American Camila Nuñez has always been afraid of the future. Maybe it's because her mami seems to make worrying about her a full-time job or because she’s uncomfortable in her own skin. But whatever the cause, she can’t seem to shake her anxiety and panic attacks. So when Camila's best friend gives her a tarot card reading for her birthday, she believes it when the cards portend terrible things to come. As the year unfolds, the cards seem to be spot on—is her papi having an affair? Will her best friend’s love life tank their friendship? Is her new, nonbinary love interest going to break her heart like the girl in Miami did?Whether she likes it or not, Camila is forced to reckon with all the ways her fear about the future is ruining her life, and what it will really take to get back on track.
352 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2025
5 people are currently reading
2631 people want to read
About the author
Miriam Zoila Pérez
5 books29 followersMiriam Zoila Pérez is an award-winning queer Cuban writer and activist. Their work, which mostly looks at the intersections of race, health and gender, is motivated by a desire to understand how the world shapes our bodies, and to explore all the many solutions that already exist for some of our biggest problems, but simply don’t get the attention they deserve.
Their debut young adult fiction novel, Camila Núñez’s Year of Disasters, will be published by Page Street YA in 2025. They will also be publishing a non-fiction book with their podcast co-host Verónica Bayetti Flores, Muévelo, published by Running Press.
Their writing has appeared in the New York Times, The Guardian and Colorlines, among other outlets. Pérez’s work has appeared in a number of anthologies, including the NYT Bestselling anthology, Not That Bad, edited by Roxane Gay. Pérez’s 2016 TED Talk How Racism is Harming Pregnant Women–and What Can Help, has been viewed over a million times. Pérez is the author of the self-published Radical Doula Guide: A Political Primer for Full-Spectrum Pregnancy and Childbirth Support.
Their debut young adult fiction novel, Camila Núñez’s Year of Disasters, will be published by Page Street YA in 2025. They will also be publishing a non-fiction book with their podcast co-host Verónica Bayetti Flores, Muévelo, published by Running Press.
Their writing has appeared in the New York Times, The Guardian and Colorlines, among other outlets. Pérez’s work has appeared in a number of anthologies, including the NYT Bestselling anthology, Not That Bad, edited by Roxane Gay. Pérez’s 2016 TED Talk How Racism is Harming Pregnant Women–and What Can Help, has been viewed over a million times. Pérez is the author of the self-published Radical Doula Guide: A Political Primer for Full-Spectrum Pregnancy and Childbirth Support.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
March 17, 2025
The narrative that explores the intricate web of anxiety, identity, and cultural heritage through the eyes of Cuban-American teen Camila Núñez. From the outset, Camila’s struggle with panic attacks and her deep-seated fears—largely influenced by her overprotective mami—set the tone for a story that resonates with anyone who has ever felt overwhelmed by the uncertainties of the future. The intersection of magical realism and real-life challenges makes for a poignant exploration of how our fears can shape our realities.
The vivid portrayal of Cuban culture enriches the story and provides an engaging backdrop. Through descriptions of food, holiday traditions, and familial bonds, Perez offers a glimpse into Camila's rich heritage, enhancing the emotional stakes of her journey. This cultural depth not only adds authenticity but also serves to educate readers unfamiliar with these traditions.
With themes surrounding anxiety, plus-size representation, a nonbinary love interest, and positive depictions of therapy, Perez crafts a narrative that champions diversity and inclusivity. This holistic portrayal encourages readers to embrace their identities while navigating the complexities of adolescence.
The book tackles heavy themes, including fatphobia, dysmorphia, and homophobia, it does so with a sense of hope and optimism. Camila's journey is not just about facing the fears that threaten to overwhelm her, but also about recognizing the strength within herself to shape a narrative that defies the doom foretold by the cards.
Despite all this positive, it was too long and I felt like the plot itself didn't justify the length. 3.75.
The vivid portrayal of Cuban culture enriches the story and provides an engaging backdrop. Through descriptions of food, holiday traditions, and familial bonds, Perez offers a glimpse into Camila's rich heritage, enhancing the emotional stakes of her journey. This cultural depth not only adds authenticity but also serves to educate readers unfamiliar with these traditions.
With themes surrounding anxiety, plus-size representation, a nonbinary love interest, and positive depictions of therapy, Perez crafts a narrative that champions diversity and inclusivity. This holistic portrayal encourages readers to embrace their identities while navigating the complexities of adolescence.
The book tackles heavy themes, including fatphobia, dysmorphia, and homophobia, it does so with a sense of hope and optimism. Camila's journey is not just about facing the fears that threaten to overwhelm her, but also about recognizing the strength within herself to shape a narrative that defies the doom foretold by the cards.
Despite all this positive, it was too long and I felt like the plot itself didn't justify the length. 3.75.
March 22, 2025
4.5 ⭐️
🌈 Rainbow Ratings:
Representation: 9
Atmosphere: 8
Intrigue: 8
Narrative: 9
Build-up: 8
Originality: 8
Wow Factor: 9
Camila Núñez is just trying to make it through her sixteenth year, but when a tarot reading predicts disaster, she starts seeing doom everywhere she turns. Between first love, messy friendships, family drama, and her own anxieties, Camila has A LOT on her plate. But maybe, just maybe, she can learn how to embrace the unknown instead of fearing it.
From the very first page, I felt this book in my soul. As a former queer anxious girl (okay, still anxious, just older), I saw so much of myself in Camila—her overactive mind, her deep care for others, and the way she carried burdens that weren’t hers to hold. I truly could relate to the chaos of it all, and let me tell you, I have had that exact conversation with a counselor about taking on everyone else’s troubles.
Camila’s journey through first love, family tensions, and the all-consuming worry about what comes next felt so real and so deeply personal. The tarot card reading that sends her spiraling? Yeah, I’d have believed it too. But what makes this story shine isn’t just the anxiety—it’s the tenderness woven through it. The way Camila learns to navigate fear, friendships, and the messy uncertainty of growing up. It’s a reminder that even in the midst of chaos, there’s room for joy, love, and learning to let go.
This book made me feel seen in a way I wasn’t expecting, and I absolutely recommend it—especially to the queer, anxious kids who need a little reassurance that they’re not alone. 💛
🌈 Rainbow Ratings:
Representation: 9
Atmosphere: 8
Intrigue: 8
Narrative: 9
Build-up: 8
Originality: 8
Wow Factor: 9
Camila Núñez is just trying to make it through her sixteenth year, but when a tarot reading predicts disaster, she starts seeing doom everywhere she turns. Between first love, messy friendships, family drama, and her own anxieties, Camila has A LOT on her plate. But maybe, just maybe, she can learn how to embrace the unknown instead of fearing it.
From the very first page, I felt this book in my soul. As a former queer anxious girl (okay, still anxious, just older), I saw so much of myself in Camila—her overactive mind, her deep care for others, and the way she carried burdens that weren’t hers to hold. I truly could relate to the chaos of it all, and let me tell you, I have had that exact conversation with a counselor about taking on everyone else’s troubles.
Camila’s journey through first love, family tensions, and the all-consuming worry about what comes next felt so real and so deeply personal. The tarot card reading that sends her spiraling? Yeah, I’d have believed it too. But what makes this story shine isn’t just the anxiety—it’s the tenderness woven through it. The way Camila learns to navigate fear, friendships, and the messy uncertainty of growing up. It’s a reminder that even in the midst of chaos, there’s room for joy, love, and learning to let go.
This book made me feel seen in a way I wasn’t expecting, and I absolutely recommend it—especially to the queer, anxious kids who need a little reassurance that they’re not alone. 💛
March 16, 2025
While I went into this book thinking it was a YA romance, I was pleasantly surprised by the fact that it follows a teen navigating toxic relationships and dating in high school, with a focus on her life, not her romances.
Firstly, I really enjoyed following the life of the main character Camila. I thought she was very enjoyable to read about, and being in her mind felt like a perfect encapsulation of what it's like to be a teen with crushes. I also loved her best friend Cindy, and I thought she was an amazing supporting character.
However, I felt that considering the length of the book, it doesn't follow that many major plot points, and I would have loved to see a bit more intrigue regarding that. The ending also fell a bit flat for me, and felt a bit underwhelming. Thankfully though, the enjoyable characters did make up for the somewhat lack of major plot.
While this book was enjoyable, I wouldn't say I wholeheartedly recommend this to everyone, just because I personally found it a little bit boring. Although, if you're specifically looking for a YA contemporary that focuses on the mundanity on teenage life, then I would recommend this more.
A huge thank you to Page Street Publishing and Miriam Zoila Perez for a copy of this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Firstly, I really enjoyed following the life of the main character Camila. I thought she was very enjoyable to read about, and being in her mind felt like a perfect encapsulation of what it's like to be a teen with crushes. I also loved her best friend Cindy, and I thought she was an amazing supporting character.
However, I felt that considering the length of the book, it doesn't follow that many major plot points, and I would have loved to see a bit more intrigue regarding that. The ending also fell a bit flat for me, and felt a bit underwhelming. Thankfully though, the enjoyable characters did make up for the somewhat lack of major plot.
While this book was enjoyable, I wouldn't say I wholeheartedly recommend this to everyone, just because I personally found it a little bit boring. Although, if you're specifically looking for a YA contemporary that focuses on the mundanity on teenage life, then I would recommend this more.
A huge thank you to Page Street Publishing and Miriam Zoila Perez for a copy of this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
February 3, 2025
3.5
What I enjoyed:
- Anxiety rep
- Fat rep
- Nonbinary love interest (Devon was fantastic!)
- Cuban culture and feeling out of touch with it
- All sorts of queer rep
- Supportive family
- Positive therapy rep
- The dogs!
What I didn't love:
- The entire first storyline with Sonia. Yes, it set the tone for Camila's insecurity, but it felt like an entire other plot.
- The writing style. It's fine. Not fantastic, but not horrible.
- The whole Harry Potter bit. I hate HP references in queer books, even though I get what the author was trying to do.
- The obsession with the tarot reading without actually researching what tarot was. Camilla could have challenged her anxiety a bit better like she would have learned to do in therapy if she even did a cursory Google search on tarot.
- The judgemental attitude about polyamory. It was challenged and potentially resolved by the end, but I would have liked to see a little more growth from Camilla about it.
There are so many things I would have loved about this book, but the detractors really affected it. It's a solid addition to queer YA shelves with teens being a bit messy and self-centered.
Thank you to NetGalley and publisher for the opportunity to read and review.
What I enjoyed:
- Anxiety rep
- Fat rep
- Nonbinary love interest (Devon was fantastic!)
- Cuban culture and feeling out of touch with it
- All sorts of queer rep
- Supportive family
- Positive therapy rep
- The dogs!
What I didn't love:
- The entire first storyline with Sonia. Yes, it set the tone for Camila's insecurity, but it felt like an entire other plot.
- The writing style. It's fine. Not fantastic, but not horrible.
- The whole Harry Potter bit. I hate HP references in queer books, even though I get what the author was trying to do.
- The obsession with the tarot reading without actually researching what tarot was. Camilla could have challenged her anxiety a bit better like she would have learned to do in therapy if she even did a cursory Google search on tarot.
- The judgemental attitude about polyamory. It was challenged and potentially resolved by the end, but I would have liked to see a little more growth from Camilla about it.
There are so many things I would have loved about this book, but the detractors really affected it. It's a solid addition to queer YA shelves with teens being a bit messy and self-centered.
Thank you to NetGalley and publisher for the opportunity to read and review.
March 24, 2025
Thank you, Page Street publishing and Colored Pages Book Tours, for the gifted copy.
This novel is an awesome look at life as a teenager, coming of age in the midst of angst, young love, toxic relationships, identity exploration, uncertainty about the future, and anxiety. We meet Camilla, as she interacts with her family and their rich Cuban heritage, al the while feeling bogged down by her overactive mind. She has a lot of anxiety and insecurities about herself, and the experience of dating as a teenager does not make it easier. Coupled with a sometimes messy friendship and an uncertainty about her extended family accepting her sexuality, Camilla is spiraling.
I truly enjoyed this story and the various representations that were given voice. One of my favorite aspects was the therapy sessions that Camilla engaged to address her feelings and learning to manage her anxiety. I love that this book wasn't a fairytale, but rather, it addressed a lot of realistic situations/ issues and gave healthy responses. I loved that Camilla was able to learn and grow from her experiences, and everything was not magically fixed by the end of the novel. The characters felt like real people, and I think this is a book that teens can enjoy while seeing themselves and learning a thing or two.
This novel is an awesome look at life as a teenager, coming of age in the midst of angst, young love, toxic relationships, identity exploration, uncertainty about the future, and anxiety. We meet Camilla, as she interacts with her family and their rich Cuban heritage, al the while feeling bogged down by her overactive mind. She has a lot of anxiety and insecurities about herself, and the experience of dating as a teenager does not make it easier. Coupled with a sometimes messy friendship and an uncertainty about her extended family accepting her sexuality, Camilla is spiraling.
I truly enjoyed this story and the various representations that were given voice. One of my favorite aspects was the therapy sessions that Camilla engaged to address her feelings and learning to manage her anxiety. I love that this book wasn't a fairytale, but rather, it addressed a lot of realistic situations/ issues and gave healthy responses. I loved that Camilla was able to learn and grow from her experiences, and everything was not magically fixed by the end of the novel. The characters felt like real people, and I think this is a book that teens can enjoy while seeing themselves and learning a thing or two.
May 31, 2025
I really enjoyed Camilas story, it’s really honest and raw.
Her anxiety, identity, and experiences are some of the main themes throughout this book. I really loved how Camila’s anxiety was portrayed.
The author touched upon so many points as to how anxiety impacts everyday life and how it can manifest in different ways. Camilas experience is so valid, and I found myself relating my own high school experience with anxiety.
One of my favorite things about this book is that despite Camilas anxiety she isn’t afraid to get back up. From the beginning of the book to the very end, you experience her growth and watch her become more confident in herself.
You find yourself at times questioning Camilas anxiety and the way it manifests. Some could get annoyed and call it irrational but that’s exactly how it is. Anxiety is chaotic and manifests in strange ways in which one might not understand.
The queer and Cuban rep was really good!! Camilas journey in understanding queerness outside of her own sexuality was amazing and I wish that we could see this more often! The coexistence of these 2 parts of her identity shine right through this novel which made me enjoy it even more.
Camila, you will always be loved by me!
Her anxiety, identity, and experiences are some of the main themes throughout this book. I really loved how Camila’s anxiety was portrayed.
The author touched upon so many points as to how anxiety impacts everyday life and how it can manifest in different ways. Camilas experience is so valid, and I found myself relating my own high school experience with anxiety.
One of my favorite things about this book is that despite Camilas anxiety she isn’t afraid to get back up. From the beginning of the book to the very end, you experience her growth and watch her become more confident in herself.
You find yourself at times questioning Camilas anxiety and the way it manifests. Some could get annoyed and call it irrational but that’s exactly how it is. Anxiety is chaotic and manifests in strange ways in which one might not understand.
The queer and Cuban rep was really good!! Camilas journey in understanding queerness outside of her own sexuality was amazing and I wish that we could see this more often! The coexistence of these 2 parts of her identity shine right through this novel which made me enjoy it even more.
Camila, you will always be loved by me!
March 22, 2025
This was such a beautiful narrative about a queer teenager and her sexuality, identity, and heritage as a Cuban American. I went into this book thinking it would be a romance, and while there is romance, it’s definitely not the focus.
Camila was so relatable. Her anxiety, tendency to assume the worst about every situation, and inability to believe the good things in her life are real… all hit hard for me, personally. I used to be exactly like that in high school, and though I’ve somewhat learned to change, I’m still kinda like that, too.
This book is about Camila’s growth. All her relationships see changes as Camila herself changes. Her own views and insecurities about her body and image see changes. She explores her sexuality and romantic relationships. She has ups and downs with her friends and family. I loved seeing how Camila’s mindset and confidence changed throughout the story.
I enjoyed the integration of Camila’s culture throughout this book. The Spanish dialogue was sometimes a bit confusing, but nothing a bit translating couldn’t fix 😁. As someone who took Spanish in high school, I felt so proud every time I understood something on my own.
My favorite character was Camila’s abuelita. She was always so loving and caring towards Camila, and I especially loved their moments toward the end of the book.
This book was an emotional rollercoaster, but I loved all the ups and downs and how the story concluded.
Thank you so much to Colored Pages Book Tours, the author, and the publisher for having me on this tour and for the gifted copy! All opinions are my own.
Camila was so relatable. Her anxiety, tendency to assume the worst about every situation, and inability to believe the good things in her life are real… all hit hard for me, personally. I used to be exactly like that in high school, and though I’ve somewhat learned to change, I’m still kinda like that, too.
This book is about Camila’s growth. All her relationships see changes as Camila herself changes. Her own views and insecurities about her body and image see changes. She explores her sexuality and romantic relationships. She has ups and downs with her friends and family. I loved seeing how Camila’s mindset and confidence changed throughout the story.
I enjoyed the integration of Camila’s culture throughout this book. The Spanish dialogue was sometimes a bit confusing, but nothing a bit translating couldn’t fix 😁. As someone who took Spanish in high school, I felt so proud every time I understood something on my own.
My favorite character was Camila’s abuelita. She was always so loving and caring towards Camila, and I especially loved their moments toward the end of the book.
This book was an emotional rollercoaster, but I loved all the ups and downs and how the story concluded.
Thank you so much to Colored Pages Book Tours, the author, and the publisher for having me on this tour and for the gifted copy! All opinions are my own.
March 29, 2025
“My mind raced as I tried to decide what to do next.”
Camila Núñez's Year of Disasters is a pure YA novel –really meant for its audience. Even though I’m neither Cuban or American, I wish I had such books as a teen, as I would have felt seen on several levels. This story isn’t a romance, but more like a woman fiction, in which we see the MC grow and learn.
I particularly liked the queer and the anxiety representation. I also loved that she is comfortable with her culture, as it’s often not the case in YA novels, and that her challenges are quite different. Camila’s intrusive thoughts that wake her up are so reliable, as is her constant questioning of what she does, says, or the intentions of the people she interacts with… and all the problems it leads to. The end was perfect in this regard, and a great balance for a teenager IMO. It show how much she grew between her 16th and 17th birthday, but also the whole remaining path that opens before her.
In one world, I truly believe that this story can be a great companion for teens facing similar challenges.
Thank you to the author, PageStreet Publishing and ColoredPages PR for the eARC via NetGalley. My opinions are my own.
Camila Núñez's Year of Disasters is a pure YA novel –really meant for its audience. Even though I’m neither Cuban or American, I wish I had such books as a teen, as I would have felt seen on several levels. This story isn’t a romance, but more like a woman fiction, in which we see the MC grow and learn.
I particularly liked the queer and the anxiety representation. I also loved that she is comfortable with her culture, as it’s often not the case in YA novels, and that her challenges are quite different. Camila’s intrusive thoughts that wake her up are so reliable, as is her constant questioning of what she does, says, or the intentions of the people she interacts with… and all the problems it leads to. The end was perfect in this regard, and a great balance for a teenager IMO. It show how much she grew between her 16th and 17th birthday, but also the whole remaining path that opens before her.
In one world, I truly believe that this story can be a great companion for teens facing similar challenges.
Thank you to the author, PageStreet Publishing and ColoredPages PR for the eARC via NetGalley. My opinions are my own.
May 7, 2025
So many aspects of this book I had never read before—in any book, much less a young adult novel! It felt so good to finally have representation for different experiences of love and navigating family, and to know that young people can now have access to this too! This was a book I needed as a young kid and I’m excited now to be able to gift it to nieces and nephews so they can have more ideas of possibilities available to them as they navigate friendship, family conflict, mental health, and more.
February 27, 2025
On Camila’s birthday she receives a deck of tarot cards from her best friend Cindy, who thinks it will provide light-hearted fun. Instead the four cards they draw to predict anxious Camila’s next year all seem to predict difficulty and sadness. As a summer romance while visiting her Cuban family in Florida ends painfully, her parents seem to be drifting apart, a lovely new relationship is strained by Camila’s constant fear that it will end, and Camila has a friend breakup with Cindy, Camila can’t shake the thought that the tarot reading was a sort of curse. Counseling, meditation camp, and time with her abuela help Camila gain some perspective as she learns that her anxiety can be a trigger to tell herself a good rather than a sad story. Lots of great Cuban culture provides a strong setting and many readers will identify with Camila’s mental health struggles. EARC from Edelweiss.
February 21, 2025
I received an ARC of Camila Núñez’s Year of Disasters through the Goodreads giveaways, so a big thank you to the publishers for providing this copy! This book was a wonderful read! It reminded me of a 2000-2010’s Disney Channel movie in the best way!
The plot itself was paced really well! I never felt like it was moving too slowly or two quickly. I do wish the tarot cards were a bit more prevalent, but I think it’s good that the plot didn’t revolve around them too much.
The thing I liked most about this book was the connection I felt with Camila and her anxiety, especially looking back to when I was 16. She has a lot of similar thoughts to what I had in high school, and it was nice to reflect on it. I also really enjoyed the descriptions of Cuban culture, something I know very little about! Reading about the different food and holiday traditions made the story more engaging, and it made me feel like I was learning more as I read.
Overall, it was a really sweet and simple story. It never got too complicated, even with the multiple themes it covered. Camila’s experience with anxiety relating to various relationships, coming out to family members, and how she views her body were all very well connected and did not feel overwhelming. I really felt connected to her through my own experiences in high school. I really recommend this book for an easy and engaging read (I read it in only two days)!!
The plot itself was paced really well! I never felt like it was moving too slowly or two quickly. I do wish the tarot cards were a bit more prevalent, but I think it’s good that the plot didn’t revolve around them too much.
The thing I liked most about this book was the connection I felt with Camila and her anxiety, especially looking back to when I was 16. She has a lot of similar thoughts to what I had in high school, and it was nice to reflect on it. I also really enjoyed the descriptions of Cuban culture, something I know very little about! Reading about the different food and holiday traditions made the story more engaging, and it made me feel like I was learning more as I read.
Overall, it was a really sweet and simple story. It never got too complicated, even with the multiple themes it covered. Camila’s experience with anxiety relating to various relationships, coming out to family members, and how she views her body were all very well connected and did not feel overwhelming. I really felt connected to her through my own experiences in high school. I really recommend this book for an easy and engaging read (I read it in only two days)!!
Read
February 11, 2025A YA coming-of-age journey for one sapphic girl over the course of a year.
🔮
Cuban-American Camila spends her summers in Miami with her abuela. This year she’s fifteen and almost ready to come out to her cousin. When she ends up dating a girl named Sonia who breaks her heart, Camila heads back to North Carolina for the start of her junior year. On Camila’s sixteenth birthday her best friend gets her a tarot deck that portends terrible things to come. Throughout the school year Camila discovers things can always get worse. Is she manifesting these things or are the cards right?
✨
The representation is fantastic in this young adult book. We have anxiety rep, plus size rep, nonbinary love interest with a sapphic FMC, positive therapy rep, Cuban culture and an overall supportive family. This title releases March 25! Thanks @prhaudio for the ALC. All opinions are my own.
CW: fatphobia, dysmorphia, toxic relationship, homophobia
Had so much potential, but I just didn’t like too many things throughout for it to be a good read for me.
🔮
Cuban-American Camila spends her summers in Miami with her abuela. This year she’s fifteen and almost ready to come out to her cousin. When she ends up dating a girl named Sonia who breaks her heart, Camila heads back to North Carolina for the start of her junior year. On Camila’s sixteenth birthday her best friend gets her a tarot deck that portends terrible things to come. Throughout the school year Camila discovers things can always get worse. Is she manifesting these things or are the cards right?
✨
The representation is fantastic in this young adult book. We have anxiety rep, plus size rep, nonbinary love interest with a sapphic FMC, positive therapy rep, Cuban culture and an overall supportive family. This title releases March 25! Thanks @prhaudio for the ALC. All opinions are my own.
CW: fatphobia, dysmorphia, toxic relationship, homophobia
Had so much potential, but I just didn’t like too many things throughout for it to be a good read for me.
April 17, 2025
This book was absolutely beautiful. As someone who struggles with anxiety and has difficulty explaining how it feels, this book was the perfect representation. It was also really cool that i could understand all the miami references lol. I usually only like murder mysteries, so to say that this book is amazing, ITS AMAZING!!!!
February 27, 2025
Camila tells her story with quick-paced, matter-of-fact narration that lets readers see the inner workings of her anxiety as she navigates friendships, family, and romance in ways that are relatable, heartwarming, and humorous at times. Readers get a clear and complete view of Camila, and I found myself cheering her on through her year of disasters! The book features lots of representation that could be great for young readers, but for some of the characters, it leans too heavily on stereotypes.
Thanks to NetGalley and Page Street Publishing for the e-ARC.
Thanks to NetGalley and Page Street Publishing for the e-ARC.
December 20, 2024
it had potential but i just couldn't find my will to read it
March 16, 2025
CAMILA NUÑEZ'S YEAR OF DISASTERS follows camila who has always struggled with anxiety, and a tarot reading warning of upcoming disasters doesn’t help. as family drama, friendship issues, and a new crush stir up her fears, camila must confront how her anxiety is holding her back, and what it will take to move forward.
it's called her year of disasters and, honestly, our girl goes through it. camila, a queer cuban teenager, is navigating anxiety (sometimes to the point of not being able to get out of bed), toxic relationships, body image issues, family struggles, and all the messiness that comes with being a teenager trying to figure themselves out.
first off, the anxiety representation? spot on. there were moments when i had to pause because i’ve had those exact same thoughts. it felt raw and real in a way that i think will resonate with a lot of readers.
this book also doesn’t shy away from showing toxic relationships and gaslighting in a way that’s age-appropriate but still hits hard. relationships are not always fun, and it's so important for teens to see these dynamics handled realistically. plus, it highlights body image struggles that so many teens (and adults tbh) deal with, and it does so with a lot of care.
one of my favorite parts was seeing camila and her best friend so deeply connected to their local queer community. it was seriously heartwarming and added a layer of hope and support that balanced out some of the heavier moments.
by the way, there was so much delicious cuban food described in this book! i need a plate of pastelitos asap!
now, while I’m rating this book highly, i wouldn’t say it’s for everyone. this is definitely for teens or readers who enjoy a true YA coming-of-age story. camila and her friends are young teens who act like young teens. so if that’s not your vibe, fair warning. but if you’re looking for something that feels real, messy, and hopeful (with queer rep and cuban culture!), this one’s worth picking up.
thank you so much to netgalley and page street YA for the eARC in exchange for an honest review.
it's called her year of disasters and, honestly, our girl goes through it. camila, a queer cuban teenager, is navigating anxiety (sometimes to the point of not being able to get out of bed), toxic relationships, body image issues, family struggles, and all the messiness that comes with being a teenager trying to figure themselves out.
first off, the anxiety representation? spot on. there were moments when i had to pause because i’ve had those exact same thoughts. it felt raw and real in a way that i think will resonate with a lot of readers.
this book also doesn’t shy away from showing toxic relationships and gaslighting in a way that’s age-appropriate but still hits hard. relationships are not always fun, and it's so important for teens to see these dynamics handled realistically. plus, it highlights body image struggles that so many teens (and adults tbh) deal with, and it does so with a lot of care.
one of my favorite parts was seeing camila and her best friend so deeply connected to their local queer community. it was seriously heartwarming and added a layer of hope and support that balanced out some of the heavier moments.
by the way, there was so much delicious cuban food described in this book! i need a plate of pastelitos asap!
now, while I’m rating this book highly, i wouldn’t say it’s for everyone. this is definitely for teens or readers who enjoy a true YA coming-of-age story. camila and her friends are young teens who act like young teens. so if that’s not your vibe, fair warning. but if you’re looking for something that feels real, messy, and hopeful (with queer rep and cuban culture!), this one’s worth picking up.
thank you so much to netgalley and page street YA for the eARC in exchange for an honest review.
March 18, 2025
Review of Camila Núñez's Year of Disasters by Miriam Zoila Pérez
Thank you to Page Street YA and Colored Pages Book Tours for providing me with a physical ARC. All opinions are my own.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4 out of 5 stars)
I really liked Camila as a character, and I especially appreciated how her anxiety was portrayed—it felt deeply authentic and relatable. The Cuban heritage woven into the story added so much richness, making it feel deeply personal and grounded. The way fatphobia was explored, particularly how it was generationally passed down from Camila’s grandmother to her mother to her, felt incredibly realistic and hit me hard in the feels.
The LGBTQIA+ representation was another highlight of the book. It was refreshing to see a story that included a nuanced conversation around polyamory in addition to queer identities. The romance elements were engaging, and I loved seeing Camila navigate her feelings and relationships, though the story as a whole leaned more into literary fiction than a traditional romance.
That being said, I felt like the plot itself was a little thin. The pacing was fine, but it often felt like we were meandering toward the conclusion rather than moving with a clear direction. The tarot cards, which were a major selling point in the blurb and on the cover, weren’t actually featured as much as I expected. While they did trigger a lot of Camila’s anxiety, they didn’t feel like the driving force I thought they would be.
Overall, this is a solid YA literary fiction read with romance elements, and I think it will resonate deeply with readers who appreciate stories about identity, mental health, and navigating complicated family dynamics.
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July 17, 2025
Camila Núñez's Year of Disasters by Miriam Zoila Pérez is such an interesting book because it doesn't necessarily follow traditional elements of "good" literature - there really isn't an overarching plot (unless you consider "a year in the life" to be a plot) and there's a not insignificant amount of telling rather than showing. That being said, I don't think this book really needs any of this. The author successfully follows anxiety-ridden Camila as she experiences her first relationship(s), interacts with friends, and deals with family-related issues. As a queer book, CNYD successfully avoids most tropes - Camila is comfortable with her sexuality and so is everyone else she encounters; instead, the book focuses on (toxic) relationships, which is a topic that we don't really see covered in most YA queer literature. I also find it fascinating that this is a rare YA novel that includes polyamorous relationships (not on the part of the protagonist), and the author deftly examines gender and sexuality with aplomb.
To be clear, I did struggle a bit to understand what the book was trying to achieve when I first began reading, once I began to understand that it is (more or less) a slice-of-life novel written (though not explicitly) in the style of a diary, the book really started to work for me. I find this to be a very strong book and I highly recommend it.
To be clear, I did struggle a bit to understand what the book was trying to achieve when I first began reading, once I began to understand that it is (more or less) a slice-of-life novel written (though not explicitly) in the style of a diary, the book really started to work for me. I find this to be a very strong book and I highly recommend it.
March 27, 2025
Rating: 4/5 Stars
Thank you to Colored Pages Book Tours, Page Street YA, and NetGalley for access to this e-ARC. I ended up reading the physical copy given to me for an honest review.
I thought this was a very good queer BIPOC story and was interested from start to finish. I could relate a lot to what Camila went through with her anxiety and self-image issues, as someone who's experienced both since childhood. It was amazing seeing her progress throughout the book, and I genuinely like how the author ended it. I learned a lot about Cuban culture, and want to start doing my own research now about as many different cultures I can, and try to learn more about the LGBTQ+ community in each culture. It was helpful that the author explained a lot of different aspects of Cuban culture throughout the novel. Overall, I do genuinely recommend this cute but tenderhearted and sometimes tearful YA QTBIPOC romance.
Thank you to Colored Pages Book Tours, Page Street YA, and NetGalley for access to this e-ARC. I ended up reading the physical copy given to me for an honest review.
I thought this was a very good queer BIPOC story and was interested from start to finish. I could relate a lot to what Camila went through with her anxiety and self-image issues, as someone who's experienced both since childhood. It was amazing seeing her progress throughout the book, and I genuinely like how the author ended it. I learned a lot about Cuban culture, and want to start doing my own research now about as many different cultures I can, and try to learn more about the LGBTQ+ community in each culture. It was helpful that the author explained a lot of different aspects of Cuban culture throughout the novel. Overall, I do genuinely recommend this cute but tenderhearted and sometimes tearful YA QTBIPOC romance.
March 17, 2025
A strong YA fiction debut about a year in the life of Camila, an anxious, fat, queer Cuban American teen as she navigates coming out to her extended family, new romantic relationships, friendships and the dissolution of her own parent's marriage.
I thought Camila's mental health (anxiety and panic attacks were really well done and she sees a therapist to help her manage it). The book also has fantastic and diverse queer characters (Camila's main love interest in the book is a biracial trans/nonbinary individual, her best friend is poly and is dating someone with multiple partners and it turns out her father is also bisexual).
Great on audio narrated by Yenni Ann and highly recommended for fans of authors like Laura Taylor Namey, Alexis Castellanos or Jessica Parra. Many thanks to @prhaudio for a complimentary ALC in exchange for my honest review.
I thought Camila's mental health (anxiety and panic attacks were really well done and she sees a therapist to help her manage it). The book also has fantastic and diverse queer characters (Camila's main love interest in the book is a biracial trans/nonbinary individual, her best friend is poly and is dating someone with multiple partners and it turns out her father is also bisexual).
Great on audio narrated by Yenni Ann and highly recommended for fans of authors like Laura Taylor Namey, Alexis Castellanos or Jessica Parra. Many thanks to @prhaudio for a complimentary ALC in exchange for my honest review.
March 29, 2025
Camila is a determined and sincere young girl who learns a lot about herself and those around her. Her best friend, Cindy, gives her tarot cards for her sixteenth birthday, and thus begins her year of learning and growth. Maybe most importantly, Camila explores and learns about relationships: some work out, some don’t, sometimes a lot involved in them is beyond one’s control, and, all relationships take effort and offer opportunities to learn and grow.
I enjoyed the strong characters, especially Camila. She was likeable and seemed sincere. She enthusiastically shared bits and pieces of her Cuban heritage with us, and having just been there myself, I enjoyed the cultural elements such as food and family dynamics, and the limited use of Spanish.
This book was exactly what I wanted to read. It has a good message, is well-written, and full of likeable characters.
I enjoyed the strong characters, especially Camila. She was likeable and seemed sincere. She enthusiastically shared bits and pieces of her Cuban heritage with us, and having just been there myself, I enjoyed the cultural elements such as food and family dynamics, and the limited use of Spanish.
This book was exactly what I wanted to read. It has a good message, is well-written, and full of likeable characters.
March 14, 2025
Gaslighting - done so well, shifting the focus and accountability. Expert level.
Recovering from an unhealthy relationship - being transparent in the hope of recovery but also raising awareness of unacceptable behavior, support structure, etc.
Dating as a queer teen - who can you be honest with, how will your family react, educating your family of queer everything. Lack of visibility, queer people to talk safety and healthy relationships. Focusing on mainstream traditions and information - rather than queer, reality and safety.
Therapy - yes, all of the therapy.
This book has so much to offer and fell flat of its potential.
Recovering from an unhealthy relationship - being transparent in the hope of recovery but also raising awareness of unacceptable behavior, support structure, etc.
Dating as a queer teen - who can you be honest with, how will your family react, educating your family of queer everything. Lack of visibility, queer people to talk safety and healthy relationships. Focusing on mainstream traditions and information - rather than queer, reality and safety.
Therapy - yes, all of the therapy.
This book has so much to offer and fell flat of its potential.
March 20, 2025
Rounded up to 4! Thank you to the author for a physical copy of the book in exchange for an honest review!
I would definitely recommend this read. I appreciated all the different minority representations from LGBTQIA+ rep, Latinx rep, and someone with an anxiety disorder. I think the author did a great job as well portraying toxic/abusive relationships in your teens including gaslighting, which I feel is, unfortunately, a big issue. I think this is a great read for both teenagers, young adults, and adults. It didn’t feel too young where I felt out of touch reading it as an adult and I know the different aspects of this book would be helpful for a teen to read.
I would definitely recommend this read. I appreciated all the different minority representations from LGBTQIA+ rep, Latinx rep, and someone with an anxiety disorder. I think the author did a great job as well portraying toxic/abusive relationships in your teens including gaslighting, which I feel is, unfortunately, a big issue. I think this is a great read for both teenagers, young adults, and adults. It didn’t feel too young where I felt out of touch reading it as an adult and I know the different aspects of this book would be helpful for a teen to read.
May 14, 2025
So fun to read a book where I’m related to the author and understood so many of the references.
What really was eye opening in this book was how annoyed I got at the amount of times she talks about not feeling comfortable in certain clothing or insecure next to others with seemingly perfect bodies, but I was only annoyed because that is exactly how I am too. Just like Camila it is a thought in my head probably at least once every five minutes which is indeed annoying and a cycle I hope to end.
Beautiful story<3
What really was eye opening in this book was how annoyed I got at the amount of times she talks about not feeling comfortable in certain clothing or insecure next to others with seemingly perfect bodies, but I was only annoyed because that is exactly how I am too. Just like Camila it is a thought in my head probably at least once every five minutes which is indeed annoying and a cycle I hope to end.
Beautiful story<3
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 18, 2025
I enjoyed this book a lot because the main character is not always doing the right thing. She suffers from anxiety a lot and that ruins part of her relationships but the stress comes from the many changes in her life from social anxiety, racism, bullying, lack of confidence, body shape, parents' relationship unstable, coming out to family, superstitions. My fav character is her abuela, and I liked that the end is realistic and not all wins.
March 22, 2025
👧🏻reviews: what a fantastic and fun book to read. Camila is all of us dealing with anxiety, fear, pain and friendship while hoping for a miracle. Also, I love how the story went for the tarot cards to seek answers. Do you believe in “reading” and asking for assistance? This one simply gives a good explanation and idea of what Camila is thinking and why she agonizes over things. Great book, a little of realistic fiction and more.
March 27, 2025
i won an advanced reader's copy of this book in a goodreads giveaway in exchange for an honest review.
i think camila núñez offers a very authentic voice for a middle-of-high-school coming of age novel. i'm certainly past the target demographic, but the conflict in camila's life is very realistic to what a high schooler would be dealing with, and they're certainly things that high schoolers would be fretting about.
i think camila núñez offers a very authentic voice for a middle-of-high-school coming of age novel. i'm certainly past the target demographic, but the conflict in camila's life is very realistic to what a high schooler would be dealing with, and they're certainly things that high schoolers would be fretting about.
March 26, 2025
Camila's is a story of disasters and heartbreak, but it's also a story about friendship, love, and healing. Also, it has excellent anxiety rep, family drama for days, and dogs, so it's basically a dream book.
Congrats to Miriam on their amazing debut!
Congrats to Miriam on their amazing debut!
April 12, 2025
Too many detractors unfortunately
May 2, 2025
3.5 stars rounded up.
this book did a really good job taking teens seriously. it didn't grip me emotionally, but i am glad that it is out there.
this book did a really good job taking teens seriously. it didn't grip me emotionally, but i am glad that it is out there.
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