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Chavez Ravine Stories #1
The Monsters of Chavez Ravine
Before Dodger Stadium, dark forces terrorized Chavez Ravine
Los Angeles, 1952. When her father is attacked under mysterious circumstances, 22-year-old Trini Duran must return home to Chavez Ravine, a neighborhood mostly abandoned after the government sent letters to residents demanding that they leave.
Only two hundred stubborn holdouts remain.
While the Mexican American community fights to save their homes, they face a new threat that is even harder to combat than the politicians who want them gone.
Trini discovers the city and the supernatural have joined forces against her old neighborhood—monstrous creatures emerge at night, terrorizing the holdouts.
Trini, a handsome community organizer, a healer with dubious skills and a ragtag group of fighters, take up arms against the elusive enemy.
But to stop the demon invasion, Trini must decide how far she’s willing to go to save the place she once left behind.
Los Angeles, 1952. When her father is attacked under mysterious circumstances, 22-year-old Trini Duran must return home to Chavez Ravine, a neighborhood mostly abandoned after the government sent letters to residents demanding that they leave.
Only two hundred stubborn holdouts remain.
While the Mexican American community fights to save their homes, they face a new threat that is even harder to combat than the politicians who want them gone.
Trini discovers the city and the supernatural have joined forces against her old neighborhood—monstrous creatures emerge at night, terrorizing the holdouts.
Trini, a handsome community organizer, a healer with dubious skills and a ragtag group of fighters, take up arms against the elusive enemy.
But to stop the demon invasion, Trini must decide how far she’s willing to go to save the place she once left behind.
160 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 5, 2021
76 people are currently reading
362 people want to read
About the author
Debra Castaneda
25 books295 followersDebra Castaneda is an award-winning author of urban fantasy and dark fiction based on the central coast of California.
Her works include Barely Magic, the first book in the Maddy Madrigal Mysteries series of urban fantasy novels; The Spore Queen, The Devil’s Shallows, The Root Witch, The Copper Man, Circus at Devil’s Landing, and A Dark and Rising Tide, which comprise the Dark Earth Rising series of standalone novels, and The Monsters of Chavez Ravine, an International Latino Book Awards gold medal winner.
Debra loves writing character-driven stories about people who experience scary or magical things, and how they react when confronted with the unexpected. She’s committed to representing Latinas and Latinos in her books.
For inspiration, she draws from her experience as a TV and radio journalist, and as a third-generation Mexican American
Debra now lives on the central coast of California with her husband. She enjoys rediscovering the Mexican dishes of her childhood and texting her two daughters about her latest binge-watch.
~Subscribe to her newsletter for the occasional giveaway and the latest news at www.debracastaneda.com;
~Stay in touch with her at: @castanedawrites on Facebook & @castanedawrites on Instagram .
Her works include Barely Magic, the first book in the Maddy Madrigal Mysteries series of urban fantasy novels; The Spore Queen, The Devil’s Shallows, The Root Witch, The Copper Man, Circus at Devil’s Landing, and A Dark and Rising Tide, which comprise the Dark Earth Rising series of standalone novels, and The Monsters of Chavez Ravine, an International Latino Book Awards gold medal winner.
Debra loves writing character-driven stories about people who experience scary or magical things, and how they react when confronted with the unexpected. She’s committed to representing Latinas and Latinos in her books.
For inspiration, she draws from her experience as a TV and radio journalist, and as a third-generation Mexican American
Debra now lives on the central coast of California with her husband. She enjoys rediscovering the Mexican dishes of her childhood and texting her two daughters about her latest binge-watch.
~Subscribe to her newsletter for the occasional giveaway and the latest news at www.debracastaneda.com;
~Stay in touch with her at: @castanedawrites on Facebook & @castanedawrites on Instagram .
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
March 20, 2021
The Monsters of Chavez Ravine
by Debra Castaneda
Second Rodeo Books
Set in the 1950's, there is a small town of about 200 hold outs that won't be bullied or bought out by the corrupt government. They are burning the vacated homes, bulldozing them down, and making life miserable for the few families left. It's a Mexican American town and calling the cops just gets the residents arrested. Prejudice is well known here.
Trini moved out from this town to one closer to a college so she can someday get away. But is called back to Chavez Ravine due to her father's health. He had a heart attack. Someone is attacking and scaring the village people. She has to quit her job and move back to run the store and care for her father.
An old friend, now very handsome and a community support worker, helps her. They battle the creatures and find they are not dressed up people! How they deal with this, fight them and the corrupt government, and stop the creatures is very exciting and unique.
Great suspense, supernatural creatures, plot, characters, world building, and social issues are described extremely well! I felt I knew each character personally by the end of the book! The heartfelt issues Trini and the people there are also very much an issue today!
I want to thank the publisher and NetGalley for letting me read this awesome book!
by Debra Castaneda
Second Rodeo Books
Set in the 1950's, there is a small town of about 200 hold outs that won't be bullied or bought out by the corrupt government. They are burning the vacated homes, bulldozing them down, and making life miserable for the few families left. It's a Mexican American town and calling the cops just gets the residents arrested. Prejudice is well known here.
Trini moved out from this town to one closer to a college so she can someday get away. But is called back to Chavez Ravine due to her father's health. He had a heart attack. Someone is attacking and scaring the village people. She has to quit her job and move back to run the store and care for her father.
An old friend, now very handsome and a community support worker, helps her. They battle the creatures and find they are not dressed up people! How they deal with this, fight them and the corrupt government, and stop the creatures is very exciting and unique.
Great suspense, supernatural creatures, plot, characters, world building, and social issues are described extremely well! I felt I knew each character personally by the end of the book! The heartfelt issues Trini and the people there are also very much an issue today!
I want to thank the publisher and NetGalley for letting me read this awesome book!
July 6, 2021
Many Southern Californian's know the name "Chavez Ravine" as the stadium where the Dodgers play baseball & not much else... and that was what drew ME to this title initially. A quite interesting and somewhat fictional look at 1950's L.A. before the "Boys in Blue" came, when the Latinx community was being run out of their homes by "eminent domain" in the name of progress and gentrification - it's also a timely and fun read! The "monsters" in question are rather bizarre, but that this novella is actually based on very real, historical events is also sad. It is so important to tell the stories of the past - lest we forget them. Highly recommend to all.
April 11, 2023
This was a short book, based on the real history of the people of Chavez Ravine being forced out of their homes by the government.
It’s got romance, drama and monsters. It also has a writing style that I just couldn’t enjoy. That happens sometimes. I’m sure other readers, especially YA’s might like this one.
It’s got romance, drama and monsters. It also has a writing style that I just couldn’t enjoy. That happens sometimes. I’m sure other readers, especially YA’s might like this one.
March 18, 2021
The story of Chavez Revine is a powerful and painful one. Castaneda captures the horror experienced by the displaced communities of Chavez Ravine by making this a horror story where the monsters are real. Most people in Los Angeles know what the result of the displacement was but I would have like a note at the end of the book explaining Dodger stadium.
The narrative in the story moves very fast. That worked for me. I would have liked more development of the love story but that was a minor issue. It is really amazing when we consider how long we have really been dealing with racism and the problems of gentrification in this country. It is these themes that make the story so relevant today.
* I read a free copy of this book through NetGalley.
The narrative in the story moves very fast. That worked for me. I would have liked more development of the love story but that was a minor issue. It is really amazing when we consider how long we have really been dealing with racism and the problems of gentrification in this country. It is these themes that make the story so relevant today.
* I read a free copy of this book through NetGalley.
April 30, 2021
I received an ARC of this book for free from BookSirens.
A big thank you to them and the author.
Debra Castaneda delivers a well-thought, well-written, thought-provoking novella. The story might take place in 1952 and be inspired by past events, it might be fantasy, but it's still very relevant to this day when you look at what happens.
We're introduced to Trini Duran, whom I loved from the very start. Politicians want to clear Chavez Ravine of all the habitants and Trini's father is one who still refuses to abandon his home. The Duran family received the Housing Authority's eviction two years ago, and her mother died shortly after. Trini stayed for a year with her father, but eventually moved out despite her father's protests. Her brother and herself told him he should agree to sell to the city, but he won't hear a word of it. A city with Mexicans Americans, with politicians buying the homes of the people who have lived there forever to build "low-income housing". Sounds familiar?
What was interesting from the start is that I could understand both point of views. Salvio Duran wouldn't give in and that made him someone I could admire, but his daughter Trini just wanted to live in peace, to study, and what was the point on holding on to Chavez Ravine when it was already a done deal? Why did people still believe the city would ever listen to them? By what right do people said she abandoned her father and should worry much about him? She's done what she could for him, and his only wish for her it so abandon her books and marry. She's tired and wants this whole thing to be done and over with, to be able to move on, which is understandable. So while they have their differences, both in personality, wishes and beliefs, both point of views are understandable and it isn't the bad father and the good daughter, or the good father and the bad daughter.
The story begins a year after Trini moved out to Los Angeles, near Chavez Ravine, and she's convinced to visit her father again. Here, she learns that things have been getting worse for those refusing to leave... but not only because of the brutal actions and threats by men who want them to leave. There's something else at work at Chavez Ravine, and Trini and the others will be in danger from those monsters. But whose monsters are we referring to? Which threat is the biggest here? Who is the greatest evil? And will Trini fight for her home too?
The cast of characters is very good, each one of them adding something to the story. I really loved some of them, although Trini remains my favorite. The writing and pacing of this novella is really engaging and there's no time to get bored. Once I started reading, I had to finish. This was more than fantasy or horror, it was a gripping, emotional read because of how real it felt - and for good reasons like I already mentioned.
For those who like me aren't familiar with some words used, there's a glossary at the end. Although I didn't use it as I could figure it out, it's very thoughtful of the author as I've read books in the past that would have needed a glossary.
Overall, I cannot find one flaw to this novella. The only reason I'm not giving it five stars is because, as the people who follow me obviously noticed, I only have five stars to a book I know has become one of my new favorites ever. Those four stars still mean I loved this brilliant novella and I highly recommend that everyone mark its release on April 5th.
The Monsters of Chavez Ravine will be released on April 5, 2021.
A big thank you to them and the author.
Debra Castaneda delivers a well-thought, well-written, thought-provoking novella. The story might take place in 1952 and be inspired by past events, it might be fantasy, but it's still very relevant to this day when you look at what happens.
We're introduced to Trini Duran, whom I loved from the very start. Politicians want to clear Chavez Ravine of all the habitants and Trini's father is one who still refuses to abandon his home. The Duran family received the Housing Authority's eviction two years ago, and her mother died shortly after. Trini stayed for a year with her father, but eventually moved out despite her father's protests. Her brother and herself told him he should agree to sell to the city, but he won't hear a word of it. A city with Mexicans Americans, with politicians buying the homes of the people who have lived there forever to build "low-income housing". Sounds familiar?
What was interesting from the start is that I could understand both point of views. Salvio Duran wouldn't give in and that made him someone I could admire, but his daughter Trini just wanted to live in peace, to study, and what was the point on holding on to Chavez Ravine when it was already a done deal? Why did people still believe the city would ever listen to them? By what right do people said she abandoned her father and should worry much about him? She's done what she could for him, and his only wish for her it so abandon her books and marry. She's tired and wants this whole thing to be done and over with, to be able to move on, which is understandable. So while they have their differences, both in personality, wishes and beliefs, both point of views are understandable and it isn't the bad father and the good daughter, or the good father and the bad daughter.
The story begins a year after Trini moved out to Los Angeles, near Chavez Ravine, and she's convinced to visit her father again. Here, she learns that things have been getting worse for those refusing to leave... but not only because of the brutal actions and threats by men who want them to leave. There's something else at work at Chavez Ravine, and Trini and the others will be in danger from those monsters. But whose monsters are we referring to? Which threat is the biggest here? Who is the greatest evil? And will Trini fight for her home too?
The cast of characters is very good, each one of them adding something to the story. I really loved some of them, although Trini remains my favorite. The writing and pacing of this novella is really engaging and there's no time to get bored. Once I started reading, I had to finish. This was more than fantasy or horror, it was a gripping, emotional read because of how real it felt - and for good reasons like I already mentioned.
For those who like me aren't familiar with some words used, there's a glossary at the end. Although I didn't use it as I could figure it out, it's very thoughtful of the author as I've read books in the past that would have needed a glossary.
Overall, I cannot find one flaw to this novella. The only reason I'm not giving it five stars is because, as the people who follow me obviously noticed, I only have five stars to a book I know has become one of my new favorites ever. Those four stars still mean I loved this brilliant novella and I highly recommend that everyone mark its release on April 5th.
The Monsters of Chavez Ravine will be released on April 5, 2021.
March 6, 2021
Wow! What a great story! Really deep cultural and historical background which I find especially enlightening in light of events of 2020 and into 2021 of racism, profiling, and brutality.
1952 Los Angeles: the city powers determine to clear out the three Hispanic neighborhoods in Chavez Ravine, families who've lived there quietly and productively are bought out by rule of Eminent Domain and find they cannot afford to buy residences elsewhere.
But bulldozers and fire trucks are by far not the biggest danger: the Ravine is under midnight attack by ghosts and demons, summoned by a powerful covert spellcaster who will not scruple to attain his goals and that means emptying Chavez Ravine of people by any means.
1952 Los Angeles: the city powers determine to clear out the three Hispanic neighborhoods in Chavez Ravine, families who've lived there quietly and productively are bought out by rule of Eminent Domain and find they cannot afford to buy residences elsewhere.
But bulldozers and fire trucks are by far not the biggest danger: the Ravine is under midnight attack by ghosts and demons, summoned by a powerful covert spellcaster who will not scruple to attain his goals and that means emptying Chavez Ravine of people by any means.
May 3, 2021
Only Debra Castaneda could’ve written a book like this. Set in a real place where real people faced racial and political injustice, Castaneda magnifies their trauma with a supernatural element that surprised me with how believable it felt. The protagonist, 22-year old Trini Duran, is a hero for the ages as she inspires her community to fight for their survival, against all odds. This book cost me several hours sleep. I could not go to bed without knowing what happened next. Fast-paced, and well-written, this book is the perfect summer read!
March 24, 2021
I always enjoy finding a new book by an author I haven't discovered. I was pleasantly surprised to learn this book is based on a real location with somewhat real events (without the paranormal twist). Trini is the main character who returns home to the neighborhood she grew up in to help her ailing father. Things have changed and the city of Los Angeles is trying to tear down Chavez Ravine to make room for new developments. However, the 200 or so remaining residents refuse to sell and will fight to keep their homes. The citizens find themselves in a supernatural battle with creatures who appear in the night time hours. Who will win this war?
I thoroughly enjoyed this well-written novella. It was fast-moving story of love, loyalty, fear and monsters. Without explicit sexual encounters and excessive gore, I believe this could be considered a YA supernatural urban book. A thriller for most ages.
As I don't feel I am qualified to make many criticisms, I will discuss a few things I noticed. Off the start, I was a little overwhelmed with the large cast of characters. As the story progressed, I did understand the importance of their role in the story. I also struggled a little with the Mexican terminology. As I had a digital ARC, I didn't see the glossary until I finished the novel. This took away a little of the momentum for me as I had to stop to try and figure out what the author was trying to convey. Lastly, I felt there were too many references to the racism experienced by the Chavez Ravine residents and how "corrupt" the police were. After the first few references, I understood how difficult it must have been to be Mexican in LA during the early 50s. In my humble opinion, the dozen or more references was a little overkill.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I thoroughly enjoyed this well-written novella. It was fast-moving story of love, loyalty, fear and monsters. Without explicit sexual encounters and excessive gore, I believe this could be considered a YA supernatural urban book. A thriller for most ages.
As I don't feel I am qualified to make many criticisms, I will discuss a few things I noticed. Off the start, I was a little overwhelmed with the large cast of characters. As the story progressed, I did understand the importance of their role in the story. I also struggled a little with the Mexican terminology. As I had a digital ARC, I didn't see the glossary until I finished the novel. This took away a little of the momentum for me as I had to stop to try and figure out what the author was trying to convey. Lastly, I felt there were too many references to the racism experienced by the Chavez Ravine residents and how "corrupt" the police were. After the first few references, I understood how difficult it must have been to be Mexican in LA during the early 50s. In my humble opinion, the dozen or more references was a little overkill.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 10, 2021
The Monsters of Chavez Ravine is a really great story. It is about monsters and culture and eminent domain evictions of Mexican Americans. It weaves in history and legends into an engaging story about a group of holdouts in a place called Chavez Ravine. They are refusing to be bought out and suddenly some really weird and scary stuff starts happening. The monsters were freaky which was great, the characters were well-written, and the setting was really interesting. The author obviously knows what she is talking about and really has a way with words. I could not put it down and read it in one sitting. Fantastic story.
April 6, 2021
I'll say from the start that Trini was my favorite character. She was dead set on living her own life but she went back home to take care of her father. The storyline is interesting and it keeps you on your toes. I loved the supernatural creatures and the 50's vive that just seemed to ooze out. There are social issues portrayed in the book that just make it seem that much more realistic. I absolutely recommend this book for a good thrill!
December 11, 2024
This is my first Debra Castaneda book and I'm so happy to have got the chance to listen to this! The narrator was absolutely wonderful.
Residents of Chavez Ravine, a small place near Los Angeles are being forced to leave even though they don't want to. But when the residents are refusing to leave, strange things start to happen. Is it tactics from the government or is it the Devil at hand?
I absolutely loved this! What a great story, I can't wait to read/listen to the next one.
Residents of Chavez Ravine, a small place near Los Angeles are being forced to leave even though they don't want to. But when the residents are refusing to leave, strange things start to happen. Is it tactics from the government or is it the Devil at hand?
I absolutely loved this! What a great story, I can't wait to read/listen to the next one.
August 30, 2025
Set in the 1950s, this book blends history and horror in a way that feels surprisingly modern. I really enjoyed the story and appreciated the historical elements. It’s powerful and disheartening to see how marginalized communities were treated then and to recognize how those injustices still echo today. While the buildup was strong and engaging, the pacing seemed a little off and the ending felt rushed. There didn’t seem to be any real climax to the story in my opinion.
July 6, 2021
I grew up in Southern California so our family always cheered for the LA Dodgers, I had heard stories about how the land was stolen from the people living in Chavez Ravine, now I know the whole story, this novel is about family, neighbors and friendships, after reading this book which I loved I will continue to cheer for the LA Dodgers.
May 21, 2023
This is a great & quick read. Loved the supernatural element with bits of Latinx culture added in, which made this all the more of a special read. Being labeled a “traitor” by a community you grew up in- and later left- was small but impactful and opens up a conversation of wanting better vs alienation of the people who saw you grow up.
May 6, 2021
The Monsters of Chavez Ravine is an urban fantasy novella about the events surrounding the “the battle of Chavez Ravine” which occurred in the 1950s & 1960s.
I had to read into this a little as I was not familiar with the events. In brief, Los Angeles’ Chavez Ravine, was an area mostly populated by Mexican-Americans. The government wanted to acquire the land and they essentially forced the entire population of Chavez Ravine out of their homes... because they wanted to build a stadium.
I really enjoyed this story. We follow Trini Duran, a young woman who has left Chavez ravine to move to the city when she is called home. Whist back in Chavez Ravine, Trini realises that there are a lot of strange things going on, some of which are very frightening.
This book has a bit of everything and I read it in one sitting because the plot was so enjoyable. The story has elements of fantasy/horror such as monsters, demons, ghosts and witchcraft which I loved. The horror is quite tame though (not too frightening or graphic) and would be great for anyone wanting to get started in the genre.
I liked the characters individually, but loved the sense of belonging and the culture within the community. There is also a really sweet romance, which I adored. My favourite part of this book was the social commentary, and the way that the author showed the community coming together to fight injustice.
I will certainly be doing further reading into the true events surrounding the battle of Chavez Ravine in the future.
I highly recommend The Monsters of Chavez Ravine to anyone who likes stories about communities standing together to fight injustice, with a few monsters and demons thrown in.
I’d like to thank Netgalley and Debra Castaneda for providing me with an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review.
I had to read into this a little as I was not familiar with the events. In brief, Los Angeles’ Chavez Ravine, was an area mostly populated by Mexican-Americans. The government wanted to acquire the land and they essentially forced the entire population of Chavez Ravine out of their homes... because they wanted to build a stadium.
I really enjoyed this story. We follow Trini Duran, a young woman who has left Chavez ravine to move to the city when she is called home. Whist back in Chavez Ravine, Trini realises that there are a lot of strange things going on, some of which are very frightening.
This book has a bit of everything and I read it in one sitting because the plot was so enjoyable. The story has elements of fantasy/horror such as monsters, demons, ghosts and witchcraft which I loved. The horror is quite tame though (not too frightening or graphic) and would be great for anyone wanting to get started in the genre.
I liked the characters individually, but loved the sense of belonging and the culture within the community. There is also a really sweet romance, which I adored. My favourite part of this book was the social commentary, and the way that the author showed the community coming together to fight injustice.
I will certainly be doing further reading into the true events surrounding the battle of Chavez Ravine in the future.
I highly recommend The Monsters of Chavez Ravine to anyone who likes stories about communities standing together to fight injustice, with a few monsters and demons thrown in.
I’d like to thank Netgalley and Debra Castaneda for providing me with an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review.
March 26, 2021
In the 1950s, the citizens of Chavez Ravine are trying desperately to keep their land from the clutches of the City of Los Angeles. Some citizens have taken low buyouts, but those that remain are steadfast in their resistance. Trini Duran is one who has moved on, but her father remains in Chavez Ravine, determined to die where he was born.
As whispers of strange happenings reach Trini, she returns to the Palo Verde neighborhood and soon learns that someone - or something- with stop at nothing to move the citizens from the land.
This is such a great story! Trini’s struggle with escaping her hometown, and then returning is something that a lot of us can identify with. She finds that she still has very strong ties to the community and that it will always be a part of her identity.
Castaneda also tackles issues of racism that are still prevalent with low-income primarily minority communities today. The City uses excuses that the houses are rundown and the roads are unpaved as a reason to push the citizens out, when the City itself denied improvements to the community.
I really enjoyed this book, and I look forward to reading more from Debra Castaneda!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
As whispers of strange happenings reach Trini, she returns to the Palo Verde neighborhood and soon learns that someone - or something- with stop at nothing to move the citizens from the land.
This is such a great story! Trini’s struggle with escaping her hometown, and then returning is something that a lot of us can identify with. She finds that she still has very strong ties to the community and that it will always be a part of her identity.
Castaneda also tackles issues of racism that are still prevalent with low-income primarily minority communities today. The City uses excuses that the houses are rundown and the roads are unpaved as a reason to push the citizens out, when the City itself denied improvements to the community.
I really enjoyed this book, and I look forward to reading more from Debra Castaneda!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 13, 2021
This was a phenomenal take on history. The author wove real life events, fictional characters and the supernatural seamlessly. I received an ARC of this book for an honest review.
The monsters, human and otherwise, were terrifying. The subtle play on witchcraft was an interesting twist and one of my favorite characters Lencha, the curandera, was so elegantly written.
I’m not typically a fan of romance, but I found the developing relationship between the two main characters, Trini and Bobby, to be so genuine. It was awkward and strange just like a real budding romance.
For me this story was all about the characters. I truly cared about the future of Chavez Ravine and its residents. I’d love to see more stories involving these same characters!
The monsters, human and otherwise, were terrifying. The subtle play on witchcraft was an interesting twist and one of my favorite characters Lencha, the curandera, was so elegantly written.
I’m not typically a fan of romance, but I found the developing relationship between the two main characters, Trini and Bobby, to be so genuine. It was awkward and strange just like a real budding romance.
For me this story was all about the characters. I truly cared about the future of Chavez Ravine and its residents. I’d love to see more stories involving these same characters!
March 29, 2021
☆☆☆½
eARC kindly provided by booksirens.com.
The Monsters of Chavez Ravine was an entertaining story filled with a little bit of everything. There was suspense, supernatural elements, a hint of romance and a dash of action.
I really enjoyed the story. It was written quite simply which made it very easy to read. I felt compelled to keep reading because I was always wanting to know what would happen next.
If I had to say anything critical, it would be that there were a lot of convenient explanations for getting the characters out of trouble, which did not get very flushed out in the story.
Other than that it was a very entertaining read that makes me want to check out more by the author.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
eARC kindly provided by booksirens.com.
The Monsters of Chavez Ravine was an entertaining story filled with a little bit of everything. There was suspense, supernatural elements, a hint of romance and a dash of action.
I really enjoyed the story. It was written quite simply which made it very easy to read. I felt compelled to keep reading because I was always wanting to know what would happen next.
If I had to say anything critical, it would be that there were a lot of convenient explanations for getting the characters out of trouble, which did not get very flushed out in the story.
Other than that it was a very entertaining read that makes me want to check out more by the author.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 3, 2021
A nice short, fast-paced Urban Fantasy novel. Really appreciated the Latinx setting, which is something somewhat rare in fantasy novels. Had a satisfying conclusion. Will definitely keep an eye out for this author and read more of her works.
March 28, 2021
Great story with a strong female character who doesn't disappoint. While Trina struggles to gain independence from what she considers an old way of life, she is drawn back to her roots when her father becomes ill, and she realizes there are evil forces terrorizing her father and the old neighborhood. A group of politicians are trying to force the Mexican Americans from their homes to make way for a new low income housing development, which I thought was rather ironic considering the description of the current homes and run down conditions in which the families were living. In addition to inadequate payments for several families, there also appears to be a sinister supernatural threat that has been unleashed on the few remaining families who have said no to selling and leaving - and among those is Trina's dad (who also runs a local grocery market). There are numerous cultural and historical references throughout the book which add to the storyline. And yes, there are supernatural forces at work that are dangerous and downright mean and nasty. Racism, police brutality, unyielding political powers, love, and supernatural elements come together in an entertaining story. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 30, 2021
I enjoyed this but felt it would have benefited from being longer, that way things could have developed more slowly and with more detail – which I think was needed in some parts.
The overarching plot and the characters themselves were well written and I really liked Trini and how her perceptions and attitudes changed over the course of the story. I could also picture the locations well and felt like I was walking down the streets with her.
My main issue was that the discovery of the reason for the events seemed anticlimactic and rushed. In one scene the residents go to investigate and immediately identify the source of their trouble – I felt this could have been a longer process with more evidence and searching required. Also I thought the justification for why was quite weak given the serious outcomes the actions resulted in.
However, the story within Chavez Ravine was great. The interactions between the characters in the community, the monsters themselves, the hunting, and the ending were all thoroughly entertaining. I will continue to follow Debra and eagerly await her new releases.
*I received a complimentary copy of the e-book from the author and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
The overarching plot and the characters themselves were well written and I really liked Trini and how her perceptions and attitudes changed over the course of the story. I could also picture the locations well and felt like I was walking down the streets with her.
My main issue was that the discovery of the reason for the events seemed anticlimactic and rushed. In one scene the residents go to investigate and immediately identify the source of their trouble – I felt this could have been a longer process with more evidence and searching required. Also I thought the justification for why was quite weak given the serious outcomes the actions resulted in.
However, the story within Chavez Ravine was great. The interactions between the characters in the community, the monsters themselves, the hunting, and the ending were all thoroughly entertaining. I will continue to follow Debra and eagerly await her new releases.
*I received a complimentary copy of the e-book from the author and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
August 24, 2024
Monsters - the supernatural AND the human kind - are preying on a dying community, scaring the locals into leaving the area so new construction can rise. Trini is back to look after her ailing father and little by little learns how frightened the local residents are. There are only about two hundred left and that number gets lower and lower every day. While the basics of the story are based on real history, Debra Castaneda adds horror elements to make this into a compelling, gritty tale. Trini is incredibly prickly, she thought she'd left it all behind and is considered a traitor by some in the community. Now, understanding the extent of the challenge she and her allies face, she must decide how much she is willing to sacrifice to defeat evil. This book takes place in the 1950s, but it could easily be today, as police brutality, racism and violence still have a hold in our society.
August 10, 2024
Set in 1952 Los Angeles, specifically Chavez Ravine, this is a supernatural with some horror novella about the evils of demons and the evils of greed and power in politics. Very well written with likable and relatable characters. Yes, there were a lot of characters but they were unique and well rounded. I appreciated that the author took a personal story, a historical event and gave it a unique, supernatural twist. Myself being from Los Angeles, the story's location caught my attention. Plus kudos on the glossary at the end for the Spanglish spoken by the characters. Spanglish speaker myself, I didn't need it but I think it's helpful for those who don't. And the Afterword on the historical portion of the story was another welcoming and helpful addition. I definitely plan on reading more from this author.
March 22, 2021
Found this in the Read Now section of Netgalley. What a lucky find! Thanks to the author, publisher and Netgalley for letting me check it out.
I've read a lot of not so enjoyable books, lately, so this was refreshing. I had a hard time putting it down. It's a fairly quick read, so, if, unlike me, you don't start it after midnight, you probably won't have to.
Start to finish, it was a satisfying read. Well-developed, likable characters and a compelling plot that successfully blends the supernatural with all too real social issues that we are still struggling with, 60 some years later. Gentrification was the big one, forcing people out of their homes because there is money to be made off the land, but also the way Mexican Americans are treated by those in authority.
It almost read like a movie. Great pacing, lots of action, some heartfelt moments, some tragedy, a romance side plot that, shockingly, doesn't feel forced, and a satisfying ending.
I really enjoyed it.
I've read a lot of not so enjoyable books, lately, so this was refreshing. I had a hard time putting it down. It's a fairly quick read, so, if, unlike me, you don't start it after midnight, you probably won't have to.
Start to finish, it was a satisfying read. Well-developed, likable characters and a compelling plot that successfully blends the supernatural with all too real social issues that we are still struggling with, 60 some years later. Gentrification was the big one, forcing people out of their homes because there is money to be made off the land, but also the way Mexican Americans are treated by those in authority.
It almost read like a movie. Great pacing, lots of action, some heartfelt moments, some tragedy, a romance side plot that, shockingly, doesn't feel forced, and a satisfying ending.
I really enjoyed it.
April 22, 2022
I’m familiar with the sad history of L.A.’s Chavez Ravine, which is now the location of Dodger Stadium. It was once home to Mexican American families (including my mother’s) before they were driven out and, finally, evicted by the city. Castaneda puts a scary spin on the story by having the holdouts in the ravine haunted almost nightly by supernatural beasts. The small remaining community bands together to fight these attackers.
Castaneda’s novella is a creative way to tell the story of Chavez Ravine. The novella is not so much scary, but it is entertaining. More importantly, it depicts a closely knit community that comes together to defend its turf. It’s filled with well-drawn characters and a spirit of hope and determination. This would make a terrific film.
Castaneda’s novella is a creative way to tell the story of Chavez Ravine. The novella is not so much scary, but it is entertaining. More importantly, it depicts a closely knit community that comes together to defend its turf. It’s filled with well-drawn characters and a spirit of hope and determination. This would make a terrific film.
September 27, 2022
Quick read
I became interested in the era and plight of Hispanics being forced out of their Los Angelo’s neighborhoods when I saw a “Penny Dreadful” show on Showtime. I can’t remember how I went from that show to finding this author and her books, but I’m glad I found them. It’s always ad to see neighborhoods go, something bittersweet even when residents are happy to “sell up”. It’s very sad when they are forced to leave, and I admire the courage it takes to hold out.
This book is a quick read, not a long story, plus it moves along quite quickly. It has a nice pace, a nice love story, and a lot of feel-good family moments against a backdrop of supernatural land-wars. I nice change of pace for me. I’m off to the next book in the series: “The Night Lady”.
I became interested in the era and plight of Hispanics being forced out of their Los Angelo’s neighborhoods when I saw a “Penny Dreadful” show on Showtime. I can’t remember how I went from that show to finding this author and her books, but I’m glad I found them. It’s always ad to see neighborhoods go, something bittersweet even when residents are happy to “sell up”. It’s very sad when they are forced to leave, and I admire the courage it takes to hold out.
This book is a quick read, not a long story, plus it moves along quite quickly. It has a nice pace, a nice love story, and a lot of feel-good family moments against a backdrop of supernatural land-wars. I nice change of pace for me. I’m off to the next book in the series: “The Night Lady”.
April 14, 2024
History, humor, and suspense lurk beneath a veil spun with supernatural lore.
Unaware of the history of Chavez Ravine I embarked on this informative journey, delighted by Debra Castaneda’s organic voice.
It kicked off with a short tribute by the author: “To my family, who once called Palo Verde home.” With a shiver of anticipation, I dived into chapter 1 and didn’t come up for air until my flight landed—I was halfway through the story by then.
I finished this gem on the return flight home. After reading the last page, I couldn’t help myself, so I set a google calendar reminder for Autumn 2052. You can bet I will be checking SoCal news for any reports of strange happenings at, or near, Dodger Stadium (wink).
Unaware of the history of Chavez Ravine I embarked on this informative journey, delighted by Debra Castaneda’s organic voice.
It kicked off with a short tribute by the author: “To my family, who once called Palo Verde home.” With a shiver of anticipation, I dived into chapter 1 and didn’t come up for air until my flight landed—I was halfway through the story by then.
I finished this gem on the return flight home. After reading the last page, I couldn’t help myself, so I set a google calendar reminder for Autumn 2052. You can bet I will be checking SoCal news for any reports of strange happenings at, or near, Dodger Stadium (wink).
July 19, 2024
So first off I’m picky about narrators and Elena Rey did a phenomenal job with this book. Secondly, I’m having some feelings about Chavez Ravine after reading this story that almost distracted me from the fictional horror. It’s like two horror stories in one, a true horror of the gentrification of the Chavez Ravine area of LA and then the monsters called into terrorize the residents.
Debra does a great job of succinctly making you grasp the tragedy of the removal of the residents from their homes while also writing the horror of the monsters summoned to scare them away.
I’m not doing this novel justice in this review because it really is an emotional and gripping read, but go grab a copy and see for yourself.
Debra does a great job of succinctly making you grasp the tragedy of the removal of the residents from their homes while also writing the horror of the monsters summoned to scare them away.
I’m not doing this novel justice in this review because it really is an emotional and gripping read, but go grab a copy and see for yourself.
March 12, 2021
This book is an interesting glimpse into the past of a small community near Los Angeles. Fighting to keep their homes and lives Trini and her neighbors realize their enemy is not just the city and its politicians, but something much more sinister.
I loved that it's happening in the fifties and the author did a great job to bring that past to life. Characters are very interesting, relatable, with a strong belief that doing the right thing will help them win. The scenery from a time gone by is really helpful in completing the mystic feel of the book. Trina's secret love story is just adding to the depth of the novel and bringing some light at the end of the tunnel.
I loved that it's happening in the fifties and the author did a great job to bring that past to life. Characters are very interesting, relatable, with a strong belief that doing the right thing will help them win. The scenery from a time gone by is really helpful in completing the mystic feel of the book. Trina's secret love story is just adding to the depth of the novel and bringing some light at the end of the tunnel.
March 29, 2021
I received an ARC of The Monsters of Chavez Ravine from the author. This isn't my usual genre but I'm so glad that I accepted this story, I loved it so much. It has so much action and is so captivating that it is impossible to put down, I had to figure out what was happening. Trini is an amazing character who is so strong. She uses this strength, along with her unique group, to try and save their community. There were a few Spanish words throughout the story and I enjoyed trying to figure out what they meant using the context clues in the story. Then I would check the glossary at the back of the book to make sure I was correct. I look forward to reading more of this author's books.
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