What do you think?
Rate this book
Paola Santiago #3
Paola Santiago and the Sanctuary of Shadows
Best-selling author Rick Riordan presents Tehlor Kay Mejia's third chilling story based on Mexican folklore. This time Paola Santiago faces El Cucuy, aka the Boogeyman.
"Paola Santiago is a whip-smart Latina who dares to explore the shadows between folklore and middle-school friendship. A thrilling adventure."--Nina Moreno, author of Don't Date Rosa Santos
Paola Santiago has recently returned from Oregon, where she defeated the Hitchhiker ghost and saved her father from the vengeful spirit that was possessing him. The poor girl deserves a rest! But first she has to rescue Dante from the void, where he’s been imprisoned by some unknown force. Even though Dante has turned against Pao, she can’t just leave him there--they’ve been friends for too long.
Paola’s prophetic dreams seem to have dried up, so she has to find other ways to locate a new rift where she can enter the void. Signs point to Texas--but how is she going to get there from Arizona? It just so happens that Emma’s new group of politically active friends, the Rainbow Rogues, are planning a field trip to San Antonio. It’s the perfect ruse for Paola, if she can stand being with the judgmental girls for that many days. . . .
Relying on her wits, training from the Ninos de la Luz, and the emotional support of her best friend Emma, Pao makes it into the void. Once there she must face down not just one but two enemies: El Cucuy, the bogeyman . . . and someone even scarier who looks a lot like Pao herself.
This third exciting journey into Mexican folklore has our lovable, intrepid protagonist making discoveries both wonderous and fearsome.
Complete your middle grade fantasy collection with:
Rick Riordan Presents: Paola Santiago and the River of Tears by Tehlor Kay Mejia
Rick Riordan Presents: Paola Santiago and the Forest of Nightmares by Tehlor Kay Mejia
Rick Riordan Presents: The Last Fallen Star by Graci Kim
Rick Riordan Presents: City of the Plague God by Sarwat Chadda
Rick Riordan Presents: Race to the Sun by Rebecca Roanhorse
"Paola Santiago is a whip-smart Latina who dares to explore the shadows between folklore and middle-school friendship. A thrilling adventure."--Nina Moreno, author of Don't Date Rosa Santos
Paola Santiago has recently returned from Oregon, where she defeated the Hitchhiker ghost and saved her father from the vengeful spirit that was possessing him. The poor girl deserves a rest! But first she has to rescue Dante from the void, where he’s been imprisoned by some unknown force. Even though Dante has turned against Pao, she can’t just leave him there--they’ve been friends for too long.
Paola’s prophetic dreams seem to have dried up, so she has to find other ways to locate a new rift where she can enter the void. Signs point to Texas--but how is she going to get there from Arizona? It just so happens that Emma’s new group of politically active friends, the Rainbow Rogues, are planning a field trip to San Antonio. It’s the perfect ruse for Paola, if she can stand being with the judgmental girls for that many days. . . .
Relying on her wits, training from the Ninos de la Luz, and the emotional support of her best friend Emma, Pao makes it into the void. Once there she must face down not just one but two enemies: El Cucuy, the bogeyman . . . and someone even scarier who looks a lot like Pao herself.
This third exciting journey into Mexican folklore has our lovable, intrepid protagonist making discoveries both wonderous and fearsome.
Complete your middle grade fantasy collection with:
Rick Riordan Presents: Paola Santiago and the River of Tears by Tehlor Kay Mejia
Rick Riordan Presents: Paola Santiago and the Forest of Nightmares by Tehlor Kay Mejia
Rick Riordan Presents: The Last Fallen Star by Graci Kim
Rick Riordan Presents: City of the Plague God by Sarwat Chadda
Rick Riordan Presents: Race to the Sun by Rebecca Roanhorse
Unknown Binding
First published August 2, 2022
25 people are currently reading
1309 people want to read
About the author
Tehlor Kay Mejia
21 books1,181 followersTEHLOR KAY MEJIA (he/him) is a bestselling and award winning author of books for all ages.
His debut young adult novel, WE SET THE DARK ON FIRE, received six starred reviews, as well as the Oregon Spirit Book Award for debut fiction, and the Neukom Institute Literary Arts Award runner up honor for debut speculative fiction. It has been featured on Seventeen, Cosmopolitan, and O by Oprah Magazine’s best books lists, and was a 2019 book of the year selection by Kirkus and School Library Journal.
Tehlor’s debut middle grade novel, PAOLA SANTIAGO AND THE RIVER OF TEARS, was published by the Rick Riordan Presents imprint at Disney/Hyperion. It received four starred reviews, and was named Amazon’s best book of 2020 in the 9-12 age range.
Tehlor strives to create stories which showcase the importance of community, radical inclusion, and abolitionist values. He lives with his child, wife, and two dogs in his home state of Oregon, and is active on Instagram @tehlorkay.
His debut young adult novel, WE SET THE DARK ON FIRE, received six starred reviews, as well as the Oregon Spirit Book Award for debut fiction, and the Neukom Institute Literary Arts Award runner up honor for debut speculative fiction. It has been featured on Seventeen, Cosmopolitan, and O by Oprah Magazine’s best books lists, and was a 2019 book of the year selection by Kirkus and School Library Journal.
Tehlor’s debut middle grade novel, PAOLA SANTIAGO AND THE RIVER OF TEARS, was published by the Rick Riordan Presents imprint at Disney/Hyperion. It received four starred reviews, and was named Amazon’s best book of 2020 in the 9-12 age range.
Tehlor strives to create stories which showcase the importance of community, radical inclusion, and abolitionist values. He lives with his child, wife, and two dogs in his home state of Oregon, and is active on Instagram @tehlorkay.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews
August 16, 2022
You can read my full review on my blog, The Bookwyrm's Den, here.
I received copy in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.
Overall
The third Paola Santiago book! What can I even say to preface this? Except maybe that I can’t believe we’ve hit the end of this series already. D: Where has the time gone? Our little Paola is all grown up. Okay, well, probably not that one, but still. So much growth. When I saw that this book was releasing, I was excited, but also a little sad to see this series come to an end! I was racking my brain trying to decide which Mexican folklore would be used in this book ahead of time, and when I saw that it was El Cucuy, I was super excited! Because who wouldn’t want to take on the bogeyman?! Let the fun begin!
Paola Santiago and the Sanctuary of Shadows is the action-packed, heartfelt conclusion to this series, where Mexican folklore takes a terrifying turn, and Paola has to come to grips with all the trauma she’s suffered.
The last installment of this series was every bit as action-packed as the rest of the series, with plenty of dangerous situations, strategy, and fighting. What this book does slightly differently is also cram a ton of emotion into the scenes, as Paola attempts to come to grips with her emotional trauma, generational trauma, and the continued danger that threatens the world. While I enjoyed this book, I didn’t find the conclusion of the series entirely satisfying, mostly because of the convenient explanations for everything, but also partly because of how hard it pushes what I would consider an unhealthy forgiveness narrative. Still, I’m excited to see what Tehlor Kay Mejia will come up with next, and I can’t wait to read her future work!
My Thoughts
- After everything that’s happened in the previous books, Paola is struggling with an abundance trauma, as one might expect. Trauma? Paola? Psst, can’t imagine whyyyy, now can we? She’s only literally been to hell and back. No biggie! In truth, Paola’s been through more than anyone could expect a 13-year-old to quickly bounce back from, so I really appreciate the way Mejia addresses her struggle to return to some semblance of normality. Especially considering how difficult it is for her, jumping at shadows and seeing monsters around every corner.
As if the trauma she carries from her (mis)adventures isn’t enough, Paola also has plenty of generational trauma to go around. Finding our you’re La Llorana’s granddaughter will do that to you. Something about your grandmother literally murdering her children and then trying to murder you tends to wreak havoc with one’s sense of self. So it makes sense that Paola has some pretty big emotions to work through.
Trauma is something that authors tend to shy away from, especially fantasy and adventure authors, because adventures are a lot less fun when you’re honest about the ways they affect and change the heroes. Which made me appreciate Mejia’s inclusion of Paola’s struggle all the more, because one doesn’t go through the things Paola does without being changed.
- The emotions in this book are so hardcore and on point as Paola grapples with how to move forward from everything that’s happened to her in the series so far. Paola has come a long way from the first book. She’s gained some things (like her father), but also lost many others (like her best friend and her childhood innocence). It’s easy to forget, though, that she’s still only thirteen, especially when considering all the things she’s done and been through. So yeah, there are some pretty big emotions in this book as Paola grapples with what everything means with her life.
It isn’t all just where she’s been and what she’s done, either. Paola is at that critical age where she’s still trying to figure out herself. The people around her like Emma and the Rogues seem so self-assured and confident in who they are, whereas Paola is really just a hot mess wandering around in a meat suit. She struggles a lot with deciding who she is and who she wants to be on many fronts, including who she wants to be with.
I’ll admit that I didn’t love the little baby, budding romance in this, since it felt a bit shoehorned into everything, unnecessary, and a bit awkward (to me at least) in its sudden appearance. However, that pretty much describes and fits the MO of a 13-year-old, so that tracks. What I loved most about it, though, is the way Mejia gives permission for Paola (and, by extension, young readers) to take the time to decide who they are through trial and error, rather than having everything figured out.
- As much as I’ve enjoyed the Niños in the previous book, Pao’s new, unexpected (and often unwanted) squad of the Rogues is a bit of a breath of fresh air, if I’m honest. That’s not to say that the Niños don’t make an appearance, because they do. Obviously. It wouldn’t be a Paola book without them, now would it? That being said, though, the bulk of the support in this book is provided by the Rogues. Yes, Emma’s Rogues. You know, the super woke group hellbent on fighting misogyny and racism and determined to save the Earth whether other people like it or not? Yeah, that group.
The Rogues are . . . well, a hot mess. They’re certainly no Niños. They’re essentially what would happen if you gave me a sharp farming implement and told me that evil phantoms were invading our world. It’s messy, it’s chaotic, and it’s also highly likely that someone will lose an eye. But hey, it works. In previous books, it’s easy to forget how young the Niños are because of their advanced training and community, but the Rogues have none of that to fall back on. They’re just honest-to-goodness kids trying to do the right thing and being woefully unprepared and in over their heads. And if that’s not the most honest, relatable thing in any adventure book, I don’t know what is.
- Though Paola’s always been a bit hardheaded and stubborn to a fault, she’s learning what it really means to stand her ground and lead others when she’s uncertain and doesn’t always have the answers . . . especially when those around her think they do and try to shut her down. Let’s be real: we all know how frustrating it is to have your opinion dismissed, let alone being dismissed entirely. Speaking up when people are trying to shut you down and tell you your place is hard. It doesn’t always get easier as you get older, either. So I definitely appreciated all the scenes where Paola needed to stand her ground and have faith in her own convictions.
Now, is Paola always right? Ha! No, of course not. She’s not always the leader the people around her need, but that’s okay. She’s thirteen. But that doesn’t mean she can’t contribute, as she constantly needs to remind the people around her. Being 13 is not a reason to dismiss her opinions entirely, but Paola is finding out that she first needs to believe in herself before anyone else will believe in her.
Sticking Points
- The ending is okay, as far as endings go, buuuut . . . I didn’t love it? This is obviously an incredibly personal thing, so your mileage will vary! For me, though, the ending to this trilogy (which I’ve thoroughly enjoyed) fell kind of flat and felt rushed and oddly convenient (in a not-at-all-convenient sort of way). I loved Paola’s journey (both physical and emotional), and there’s so many heartfelt scenes in this book. However, I just didn’t love the climax and all the final “explanations”. Not gonna lie, I’m also a bit sad to see this series go, because the folklore in it has been so much fun. You know, in a creepy, slightly terrifying sort of way.
I also feel like something needs to be said about the difference between healthy forgiveness and toxic relationships, because I’ve been seeing this more and more in fiction, especially middle grade. Not everybody needs to be forgiven. Not everyone deserves to be forgiven. Fiction needs to stop normalizing the idea that no one is beyond forgiveness, no matter what they do, because it’s such an incredibly unhealthy narrative. That’s all I’ll say with regards to that to avoid spoilers, but I would caution readers that may have struggled to free themselves from toxic relationships that this may be a trigger.
I received copy in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.
Overall
The third Paola Santiago book! What can I even say to preface this? Except maybe that I can’t believe we’ve hit the end of this series already. D: Where has the time gone? Our little Paola is all grown up. Okay, well, probably not that one, but still. So much growth. When I saw that this book was releasing, I was excited, but also a little sad to see this series come to an end! I was racking my brain trying to decide which Mexican folklore would be used in this book ahead of time, and when I saw that it was El Cucuy, I was super excited! Because who wouldn’t want to take on the bogeyman?! Let the fun begin!
Paola Santiago and the Sanctuary of Shadows is the action-packed, heartfelt conclusion to this series, where Mexican folklore takes a terrifying turn, and Paola has to come to grips with all the trauma she’s suffered.
The last installment of this series was every bit as action-packed as the rest of the series, with plenty of dangerous situations, strategy, and fighting. What this book does slightly differently is also cram a ton of emotion into the scenes, as Paola attempts to come to grips with her emotional trauma, generational trauma, and the continued danger that threatens the world. While I enjoyed this book, I didn’t find the conclusion of the series entirely satisfying, mostly because of the convenient explanations for everything, but also partly because of how hard it pushes what I would consider an unhealthy forgiveness narrative. Still, I’m excited to see what Tehlor Kay Mejia will come up with next, and I can’t wait to read her future work!
My Thoughts
- After everything that’s happened in the previous books, Paola is struggling with an abundance trauma, as one might expect. Trauma? Paola? Psst, can’t imagine whyyyy, now can we? She’s only literally been to hell and back. No biggie! In truth, Paola’s been through more than anyone could expect a 13-year-old to quickly bounce back from, so I really appreciate the way Mejia addresses her struggle to return to some semblance of normality. Especially considering how difficult it is for her, jumping at shadows and seeing monsters around every corner.
As if the trauma she carries from her (mis)adventures isn’t enough, Paola also has plenty of generational trauma to go around. Finding our you’re La Llorana’s granddaughter will do that to you. Something about your grandmother literally murdering her children and then trying to murder you tends to wreak havoc with one’s sense of self. So it makes sense that Paola has some pretty big emotions to work through.
Trauma is something that authors tend to shy away from, especially fantasy and adventure authors, because adventures are a lot less fun when you’re honest about the ways they affect and change the heroes. Which made me appreciate Mejia’s inclusion of Paola’s struggle all the more, because one doesn’t go through the things Paola does without being changed.
- The emotions in this book are so hardcore and on point as Paola grapples with how to move forward from everything that’s happened to her in the series so far. Paola has come a long way from the first book. She’s gained some things (like her father), but also lost many others (like her best friend and her childhood innocence). It’s easy to forget, though, that she’s still only thirteen, especially when considering all the things she’s done and been through. So yeah, there are some pretty big emotions in this book as Paola grapples with what everything means with her life.
It isn’t all just where she’s been and what she’s done, either. Paola is at that critical age where she’s still trying to figure out herself. The people around her like Emma and the Rogues seem so self-assured and confident in who they are, whereas Paola is really just a hot mess wandering around in a meat suit. She struggles a lot with deciding who she is and who she wants to be on many fronts, including who she wants to be with.
I’ll admit that I didn’t love the little baby, budding romance in this, since it felt a bit shoehorned into everything, unnecessary, and a bit awkward (to me at least) in its sudden appearance. However, that pretty much describes and fits the MO of a 13-year-old, so that tracks. What I loved most about it, though, is the way Mejia gives permission for Paola (and, by extension, young readers) to take the time to decide who they are through trial and error, rather than having everything figured out.
- As much as I’ve enjoyed the Niños in the previous book, Pao’s new, unexpected (and often unwanted) squad of the Rogues is a bit of a breath of fresh air, if I’m honest. That’s not to say that the Niños don’t make an appearance, because they do. Obviously. It wouldn’t be a Paola book without them, now would it? That being said, though, the bulk of the support in this book is provided by the Rogues. Yes, Emma’s Rogues. You know, the super woke group hellbent on fighting misogyny and racism and determined to save the Earth whether other people like it or not? Yeah, that group.
The Rogues are . . . well, a hot mess. They’re certainly no Niños. They’re essentially what would happen if you gave me a sharp farming implement and told me that evil phantoms were invading our world. It’s messy, it’s chaotic, and it’s also highly likely that someone will lose an eye. But hey, it works. In previous books, it’s easy to forget how young the Niños are because of their advanced training and community, but the Rogues have none of that to fall back on. They’re just honest-to-goodness kids trying to do the right thing and being woefully unprepared and in over their heads. And if that’s not the most honest, relatable thing in any adventure book, I don’t know what is.
- Though Paola’s always been a bit hardheaded and stubborn to a fault, she’s learning what it really means to stand her ground and lead others when she’s uncertain and doesn’t always have the answers . . . especially when those around her think they do and try to shut her down. Let’s be real: we all know how frustrating it is to have your opinion dismissed, let alone being dismissed entirely. Speaking up when people are trying to shut you down and tell you your place is hard. It doesn’t always get easier as you get older, either. So I definitely appreciated all the scenes where Paola needed to stand her ground and have faith in her own convictions.
Now, is Paola always right? Ha! No, of course not. She’s not always the leader the people around her need, but that’s okay. She’s thirteen. But that doesn’t mean she can’t contribute, as she constantly needs to remind the people around her. Being 13 is not a reason to dismiss her opinions entirely, but Paola is finding out that she first needs to believe in herself before anyone else will believe in her.
Sticking Points
- The ending is okay, as far as endings go, buuuut . . . I didn’t love it? This is obviously an incredibly personal thing, so your mileage will vary! For me, though, the ending to this trilogy (which I’ve thoroughly enjoyed) fell kind of flat and felt rushed and oddly convenient (in a not-at-all-convenient sort of way). I loved Paola’s journey (both physical and emotional), and there’s so many heartfelt scenes in this book. However, I just didn’t love the climax and all the final “explanations”. Not gonna lie, I’m also a bit sad to see this series go, because the folklore in it has been so much fun. You know, in a creepy, slightly terrifying sort of way.
I also feel like something needs to be said about the difference between healthy forgiveness and toxic relationships, because I’ve been seeing this more and more in fiction, especially middle grade. Not everybody needs to be forgiven. Not everyone deserves to be forgiven. Fiction needs to stop normalizing the idea that no one is beyond forgiveness, no matter what they do, because it’s such an incredibly unhealthy narrative. That’s all I’ll say with regards to that to avoid spoilers, but I would caution readers that may have struggled to free themselves from toxic relationships that this may be a trigger.
September 1, 2022
Good ending to the series. This was an interesting series, not one of my top RRP series so far, but it was still interesting to learn more cultures/mythologies from around the world.
September 17, 2023
This was so good and a phenomenal conclusion to the trilogy! I love how the author manages to write for middle-grade and teens but still includes real world issues. The ending was really good, and the character progression was spot on! Definitely worth reading! 5 stars
October 23, 2022
An ok conclusion to this trilogy and I do like that the story does focus a bit on the relationship between Paola and her returning father and how they both love each other but not to sure how to act with each other just yet. Otherwise it is just ok.
September 26, 2022
Not a fan of Paola, but I did like señora Mata, and robin's parents, and Paola's dog. The rest I can do without.
I love the power of the magnifying glass. I'm sad for Dante.
I love the power of the magnifying glass. I'm sad for Dante.
August 13, 2023
This was a solid ending to the trilogy and I really enjoyed it. I'd rather keep this spoiler free because that's how I read it and I appreciated that I had to guess about what might be going on and what might be the antidote to fear (I loved the answer).
Paola is a girl with a good heart but who's a hot mess. It doesn't help that the adults in her life treat her like she's four, but she is also impulsive and usually jumps in headfirst without thinking about potential consequences. This is ironic given that she is also really smart and can usually figure things out faster than the adults around her. That's not to say she exercises good judgment, but one of the themes that kept cropping up was that the adults really needed to learn to communicate with their kids a bit better. But all of that was in keeping with the other theme which that fear causes you to make unwise choices.
The budding romance was a bit awkward throughout, but I think it worked because that's where Paola was in her development. I liked that the author gave her space to be uncertain, and that she didn't rush even the end just to give them a happily ever after.
I also liked that Paola's relationship with Beto was challenging, even as she knew they loved each other. If you had an absent father who suddenly shows up and it turns out he was being controlled by an evil spirit the whole time he was gone, and you manage to defeat said evil spirit, but now you have to figure out how to be father and daughter? I appreciated how this was handled.
The other big theme in this book was the effect of trauma, both personal and generational. I like that it was talked about throughout the book, although Paola handled it by basically avoiding it, while others in her community approached it in different ways. I liked that Emma and Paola acknowledged it was there, but Emma in her quiet way (so opposite to her personality) knew to not push and to just support her and be there when/if she was ready to talk about it. I liked how therapy was talked about at the end and that it wasn't a magic pill or a quick process, but something that would take a long time to work through.
Something that I wasn't 100% comfortable with was that Paola felt she had to be okay with was being able to forgive people who had caused her pain, for example, Franco. She even felt like she had to give El Cucuy a chance at the end, and I'm not so sure about that. I mean, in an idealized world, yeah, maybe. But sometimes, especially in our real world, some things are unforgivable, at least in this life. This may be a minor quibble, but it did stand out for me and there were many times when Paola basically decide that she was the same as them. I think eventually it came to her that her choices made her good or bad and that she was not good or bad. And that she was good because she could continue choosing to do good things. This whole thing is a bit murky for me, and it's something I'll have to think about.
Overall, I really enjoyed this one and am looking forward to reading more by this author.
Paola is a girl with a good heart but who's a hot mess. It doesn't help that the adults in her life treat her like she's four, but she is also impulsive and usually jumps in headfirst without thinking about potential consequences. This is ironic given that she is also really smart and can usually figure things out faster than the adults around her. That's not to say she exercises good judgment, but one of the themes that kept cropping up was that the adults really needed to learn to communicate with their kids a bit better. But all of that was in keeping with the other theme which that fear causes you to make unwise choices.
The budding romance was a bit awkward throughout, but I think it worked because that's where Paola was in her development. I liked that the author gave her space to be uncertain, and that she didn't rush even the end just to give them a happily ever after.
I also liked that Paola's relationship with Beto was challenging, even as she knew they loved each other. If you had an absent father who suddenly shows up and it turns out he was being controlled by an evil spirit the whole time he was gone, and you manage to defeat said evil spirit, but now you have to figure out how to be father and daughter? I appreciated how this was handled.
The other big theme in this book was the effect of trauma, both personal and generational. I like that it was talked about throughout the book, although Paola handled it by basically avoiding it, while others in her community approached it in different ways. I liked that Emma and Paola acknowledged it was there, but Emma in her quiet way (so opposite to her personality) knew to not push and to just support her and be there when/if she was ready to talk about it. I liked how therapy was talked about at the end and that it wasn't a magic pill or a quick process, but something that would take a long time to work through.
Something that I wasn't 100% comfortable with was that Paola felt she had to be okay with was being able to forgive people who had caused her pain, for example, Franco. She even felt like she had to give El Cucuy a chance at the end, and I'm not so sure about that. I mean, in an idealized world, yeah, maybe. But sometimes, especially in our real world, some things are unforgivable, at least in this life. This may be a minor quibble, but it did stand out for me and there were many times when Paola basically decide that she was the same as them. I think eventually it came to her that her choices made her good or bad and that she was not good or bad. And that she was good because she could continue choosing to do good things. This whole thing is a bit murky for me, and it's something I'll have to think about.
Overall, I really enjoyed this one and am looking forward to reading more by this author.
September 19, 2024
A great conclusion! I love Pao as a protagonist and while there are clear morals throughout her story, I loved learning them with her and only felt lectures when characters were going on a well intended tangents.
I really hope the TV show stays in development and am eager to try Mejia's other books in the future!!
I really hope the TV show stays in development and am eager to try Mejia's other books in the future!!
September 2, 2022
A sweet and quite moving finish to this Mexican-American trilogy.
I may have cried a little when the answer to how to beat fear wasn’t one true hero, or one true love.
I may have cried a little when the answer to how to beat fear wasn’t one true hero, or one true love.
July 4, 2024
such a good finish to the series!! the plot twists were amazingly written and i genuinely did not see them coming, sad to see it come to an end honestly.
loved the series and sincerely enjoyed learning about mexican mythology throughout the books :)
loved the series and sincerely enjoyed learning about mexican mythology throughout the books :)
October 12, 2025
Really enjoyed this series. This book was the hardest to read because of how annoying the Rainbow Rogue's are in here. The new characters I could barely stand because I've met those types of personalities IRL and I stay away from them.
Story progressed slowly IMO but that's probably because I could barely get past the camp storyline in the beginning due to how annoying the characters were with the LGBT storyline. It felt forced to have Pao be almost outed by Kit, and that this was sort of sprung onto Pao's character when the first book had nothing of this. The second book kind of did, but this third book felt so agenda pushed and ruined the storyline for me, it ended up not feeling like the same series in the beginning.
The middle and end kind of got better, Franco was so annoying and should have been explained about more, rather than his random death towards the end.
I wish we had more of Dante and Pao; I did like Pao and Emma's vibe towards the end of the book, it felt more laid back and natural. I cried at the end of the book bc it gave Coco vibes and was really special.
This book series was dear to my heart bc I see myself in Pao through so many ways, but I wish authors in general focused more on community storylines rather than individual characters. I wish we got more of the Nińos de la Luz, more of Dante and Pao, more of Dante's abuela and Pao's mom, Bruto, etc.
Not just new storyline = all old characters are gone. It should be an expansion of the past, present, and future. Not a disappearance and brush over of it.
Story progressed slowly IMO but that's probably because I could barely get past the camp storyline in the beginning due to how annoying the characters were with the LGBT storyline. It felt forced to have Pao be almost outed by Kit, and that this was sort of sprung onto Pao's character when the first book had nothing of this. The second book kind of did, but this third book felt so agenda pushed and ruined the storyline for me, it ended up not feeling like the same series in the beginning.
The middle and end kind of got better, Franco was so annoying and should have been explained about more, rather than his random death towards the end.
I wish we had more of Dante and Pao; I did like Pao and Emma's vibe towards the end of the book, it felt more laid back and natural. I cried at the end of the book bc it gave Coco vibes and was really special.
This book series was dear to my heart bc I see myself in Pao through so many ways, but I wish authors in general focused more on community storylines rather than individual characters. I wish we got more of the Nińos de la Luz, more of Dante and Pao, more of Dante's abuela and Pao's mom, Bruto, etc.
Not just new storyline = all old characters are gone. It should be an expansion of the past, present, and future. Not a disappearance and brush over of it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 11, 2022
Loved the plot, the villain and how everything got solved. However… having Paola suddenly loving her best friend Emma was too much of a stretch for me.
There’s a clear build-up throughout the previous books of Paola’s relationship with Dante. Suddenly, the boy is kidnapped and tortured, and is then found both physically and psychologically broken, and she suddenly loves Emma, because he’s not who he used to be. And this love happens out of nowhere. It’s like the boy becomes unavailable and she suddenly falls for the person who is helping her, in a matter of pages. It was far too forced in my view. I love a good couple, but with substance, not out of the blue. And then make Dante almost her brother?? After everything and their chemistry?? It had no sense to me.
There’s a clear build-up throughout the previous books of Paola’s relationship with Dante. Suddenly, the boy is kidnapped and tortured, and is then found both physically and psychologically broken, and she suddenly loves Emma, because he’s not who he used to be. And this love happens out of nowhere. It’s like the boy becomes unavailable and she suddenly falls for the person who is helping her, in a matter of pages. It was far too forced in my view. I love a good couple, but with substance, not out of the blue. And then make Dante almost her brother?? After everything and their chemistry?? It had no sense to me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 6, 2022
Contrite and agenda-pushing
By far the worst book of the series. So bad I'm glad it's over. It's nothing but contrite agenda pushing nonsense that depicts every male as incompetent and every single female as a lesbian. The Rogues are an embarrassing exploit of what it sounds like the author "thinks a woke person" would say. Seriously, I loved these books until this installment took a 180 and just loaded it full of propaganda until it was so dripping with it that the actual storyline was lost.
By far the worst book of the series. So bad I'm glad it's over. It's nothing but contrite agenda pushing nonsense that depicts every male as incompetent and every single female as a lesbian. The Rogues are an embarrassing exploit of what it sounds like the author "thinks a woke person" would say. Seriously, I loved these books until this installment took a 180 and just loaded it full of propaganda until it was so dripping with it that the actual storyline was lost.
November 20, 2022
So this book was almost amazing. Everything about it from pao's frustrations with her parents to the way Dante betrayed her is great. Except for the fact that pao starts questioning her sexuality, because someone keeps calling her straight girl. We never get any hints that pao could possibly be interested in girls, it just feels so random. And Emma out of literally anyone? Idk man. Besides that, the book is great. it's sad that it's also the last.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 9, 2025
This was different than the other two books. It was super preachy. I understand wanting to introduce the issues and bias our society faces today to the new generation but I object to the beating-you-over-the-head style Mejia used. The dialogue was not realistic and was eye rolling and cringy. I wanted more of the supernatural aspects that seemed to be pushed back in the story.
August 30, 2022
I just don't enjoy this series as much as the other Rick Riordan presents I don't know what it is about it that's just like I could take it or leave it.
November 20, 2022
That was a disappointing ending to a series that had such a GREAT start.
June 7, 2023
2.5 stars. The end brought it up a bit but this book really dragged through the middle third unfortunately
August 15, 2022
RATING:
4 STARS
After the events of the last book, Paola Santiago and the Forest of Nightmares, Paola is reeling from major revelations and the loss of Dante (who is now stuck in the void). The adults in Pao’s life want to keep her out of the action, but she’s determined to save her friend no matter the cost. Now, in the final book in the series, Paola Santiago and the Sanctuary of Shadows, Pao makes another journey to rescue Dante from the clutches of El Cucuy (and finds herself in the process).
The folklore is incorporated into the story well, and I love getting to see the various figures out of Mexican myth and legend make an appearance. El Cucuy, the lord of nightmares and fear, is a truly imposing figure. He’s the most powerful fantasma in history, and he’s planning on destroying the world. Given that he is such a mysterious being, it was fun to unravel the mystery of how to defeat him at the same time Pao did. Ms. Mejia did a great job with painting the picture of whatever setting the characters were in; both the physical scene and the mood were evident in the imagery she used.
In addition to the pieces of lore built into the story, I also enjoyed how Ms. Mejia wove some social commentary into the book. First of all, everyone can see Pao’s been through a lot over the course of the series. It’s no surprise she has PTSD; the revelation that La Llorona is her grandmother certainly hasn’t helped things. Mejia really emphasized how this kind of trauma is not something that goes away overnight, and I think that’s something readers of all ages need to be reminded of. There have also been some changes in Pao’s family on a less supernatural level. Now that Pao’s father is back, he doesn’t want her to have to deal with monsters. It’s understandable as an adult that he wants to keep her safe, but it’s also understandable how Pao gets frustrated that he doesn’t seem to acknowledge her accomplishments from the previous books (which include saving him from the previously mentioned murderous grandmother). This comes full circle towards the end of the story, and it was encouraging to see the adults recognize Pao’s leadership.
One theme I’ve noticed throughout all of the Rick Riordan Presents books is the strength of the middle schoolers leading the story. It’s a reminder that children are always more capable than most adults give them credit for. My favorite quote was, “Why does the fight between good and evil so often rely on a middle schooler getting ahold of a bus ticket without parental supervision?” Paola is not the only ‘child’ who pulls their weight in this story; Emma and the Rainbow Rogues help Pao on the first leg of her journey, and she later rallies the Ninos de la Luz in defense of their home. Outside of Pao, Emma was my favorite young character (Senora Mata is still my favorite adult - talk about a plot twist there). She’s a great ally, and a bright light in the series to contrast some of the darkness that Pao and Dante internalize. Pao and Emma’s relationship does undergo some strain in this book, but ultimately it ends up developing into a bit more by the end of the story.
I enjoyed listening to Frankie Corzo narrate this audiobook (she has been the narrator for all three books). Frankie really brought the characters to life and nailed the tone of the story.
Overall, this was a perfect ending to the Paola Santiago trilogy. It’s currently in development to be produced as a television series with Eva Longoria at Disney, so I’m excited to see the characters hit the big screen. If a tale filled with mythology and folklore that blends elements of the horror and fantasy genres sounds like something you would enjoy, go check out the series today!
Thank you to the author, Disney Books, the Rick Riordan Presents team, and Jaime at Rockstar Book Tours for providing me with a complimentary review copy of the book. I appreciate the opportunity to read and review Paola Santiago and the Sanctuary of Shadows immensely. Please note - I voluntarily read and reviewed the book. All opinions expressed in the review are my own and not influenced in any way.
After the events of the last book, Paola Santiago and the Forest of Nightmares, Paola is reeling from major revelations and the loss of Dante (who is now stuck in the void). The adults in Pao’s life want to keep her out of the action, but she’s determined to save her friend no matter the cost. Now, in the final book in the series, Paola Santiago and the Sanctuary of Shadows, Pao makes another journey to rescue Dante from the clutches of El Cucuy (and finds herself in the process).
The folklore is incorporated into the story well, and I love getting to see the various figures out of Mexican myth and legend make an appearance. El Cucuy, the lord of nightmares and fear, is a truly imposing figure. He’s the most powerful fantasma in history, and he’s planning on destroying the world. Given that he is such a mysterious being, it was fun to unravel the mystery of how to defeat him at the same time Pao did. Ms. Mejia did a great job with painting the picture of whatever setting the characters were in; both the physical scene and the mood were evident in the imagery she used.
In addition to the pieces of lore built into the story, I also enjoyed how Ms. Mejia wove some social commentary into the book. First of all, everyone can see Pao’s been through a lot over the course of the series. It’s no surprise she has PTSD; the revelation that La Llorona is her grandmother certainly hasn’t helped things. Mejia really emphasized how this kind of trauma is not something that goes away overnight, and I think that’s something readers of all ages need to be reminded of. There have also been some changes in Pao’s family on a less supernatural level. Now that Pao’s father is back, he doesn’t want her to have to deal with monsters. It’s understandable as an adult that he wants to keep her safe, but it’s also understandable how Pao gets frustrated that he doesn’t seem to acknowledge her accomplishments from the previous books (which include saving him from the previously mentioned murderous grandmother). This comes full circle towards the end of the story, and it was encouraging to see the adults recognize Pao’s leadership.
One theme I’ve noticed throughout all of the Rick Riordan Presents books is the strength of the middle schoolers leading the story. It’s a reminder that children are always more capable than most adults give them credit for. My favorite quote was, “Why does the fight between good and evil so often rely on a middle schooler getting ahold of a bus ticket without parental supervision?” Paola is not the only ‘child’ who pulls their weight in this story; Emma and the Rainbow Rogues help Pao on the first leg of her journey, and she later rallies the Ninos de la Luz in defense of their home. Outside of Pao, Emma was my favorite young character (Senora Mata is still my favorite adult - talk about a plot twist there). She’s a great ally, and a bright light in the series to contrast some of the darkness that Pao and Dante internalize. Pao and Emma’s relationship does undergo some strain in this book, but ultimately it ends up developing into a bit more by the end of the story.
I enjoyed listening to Frankie Corzo narrate this audiobook (she has been the narrator for all three books). Frankie really brought the characters to life and nailed the tone of the story.
Overall, this was a perfect ending to the Paola Santiago trilogy. It’s currently in development to be produced as a television series with Eva Longoria at Disney, so I’m excited to see the characters hit the big screen. If a tale filled with mythology and folklore that blends elements of the horror and fantasy genres sounds like something you would enjoy, go check out the series today!
Thank you to the author, Disney Books, the Rick Riordan Presents team, and Jaime at Rockstar Book Tours for providing me with a complimentary review copy of the book. I appreciate the opportunity to read and review Paola Santiago and the Sanctuary of Shadows immensely. Please note - I voluntarily read and reviewed the book. All opinions expressed in the review are my own and not influenced in any way.
December 13, 2022
After the emotional roller-coaster that was the second of Paola’s adventures, I was bracing for another crazy ride. While not as intense as the Forest of Nightmares, it was still a creepy and fun story.
Almost a year after saving her father and stopping another void related disaster, Paola has never felt more frustrated. Despite her best efforts, Paola has not been able to find a way back into the void to save Dante. To make matters even more frustrating, her father and Francis have shut her out of any void related business and Paola’s dream visions have stopped working. When Paola finds out Emma and her group the Rainbow Rouges are headed to a place where a void entrance is located, Paola jumps on the chance. Not knowing that her trip with Emma will change everything and put them up against the most dangerous foe they have had to face, the legendary Boogieman El Cucuy.
The focus of this adventure forces Paola not only to overcome her self-doubt, but to also decide who is she as a person. Throughout the last two books, Paola has had to deal with what others think of her due to her heritage from both the how society has viewed her and her connection to the void. Fear and the process to overcome it are front and center.
Paola is also figuring out who she is through her relationship with her best friend Emma. Unlike the last two adventures, Emma is by Paola’s side and is able to join Paola on the field instead of being kidnapped or being stuck at home. By having her with Paola, we get to see character development that shows a side of Emma that admires Paola in a way that I hadn’t seen coming. Due to what Paola and Emma have been through up to this point, it felt like the next phase for them. Which in turn made for some funny, and important conversations about not being boxed into something because of what society views as normal.
While we don’t get a lot of new characters, the ones that show up add to the story. Kit from the Rainbow Rouges for instance was a nice addition as she was bossy but handy when it came to battling what came from the void. Paola’s father also added a lot to the story, as he is trying to help Paola combat the forces from the void while also attempting to give her a normal life that he feels he ruined.
The pacing was good despite Paola’s journey with Emma and the rouges being shorter than I anticipated. Just like the last book, creatures and foes from the void appear in the real world, but Paola’s experience with them and the void is very limited. With this book being the final entry in the trilogy, I had hoped for some more foes that could have challenged Paola. The same goes for Paola’s encounters with El Cucuy. I enjoyed how the author pulled everything together at the end with El Cucuy, even if a few parts are mentioned and not fully explained. If the book had been longer, we could have had a lengthier journey that would have expanded Paola’s development with both Emma and the rouges as well as her allies and foes. I enjoyed the adventure; I just feel like there was more room for it to grow. Especially since the ending, while sweet and interesting, felt rushed. Overall, the Sanctuary of Shadows was a touching ending to Paola’s trilogy. If the author ever had a fitting idea for another adventure for Paola someday, I would be all for it!
Almost a year after saving her father and stopping another void related disaster, Paola has never felt more frustrated. Despite her best efforts, Paola has not been able to find a way back into the void to save Dante. To make matters even more frustrating, her father and Francis have shut her out of any void related business and Paola’s dream visions have stopped working. When Paola finds out Emma and her group the Rainbow Rouges are headed to a place where a void entrance is located, Paola jumps on the chance. Not knowing that her trip with Emma will change everything and put them up against the most dangerous foe they have had to face, the legendary Boogieman El Cucuy.
The focus of this adventure forces Paola not only to overcome her self-doubt, but to also decide who is she as a person. Throughout the last two books, Paola has had to deal with what others think of her due to her heritage from both the how society has viewed her and her connection to the void. Fear and the process to overcome it are front and center.
Paola is also figuring out who she is through her relationship with her best friend Emma. Unlike the last two adventures, Emma is by Paola’s side and is able to join Paola on the field instead of being kidnapped or being stuck at home. By having her with Paola, we get to see character development that shows a side of Emma that admires Paola in a way that I hadn’t seen coming. Due to what Paola and Emma have been through up to this point, it felt like the next phase for them. Which in turn made for some funny, and important conversations about not being boxed into something because of what society views as normal.
While we don’t get a lot of new characters, the ones that show up add to the story. Kit from the Rainbow Rouges for instance was a nice addition as she was bossy but handy when it came to battling what came from the void. Paola’s father also added a lot to the story, as he is trying to help Paola combat the forces from the void while also attempting to give her a normal life that he feels he ruined.
The pacing was good despite Paola’s journey with Emma and the rouges being shorter than I anticipated. Just like the last book, creatures and foes from the void appear in the real world, but Paola’s experience with them and the void is very limited. With this book being the final entry in the trilogy, I had hoped for some more foes that could have challenged Paola. The same goes for Paola’s encounters with El Cucuy. I enjoyed how the author pulled everything together at the end with El Cucuy, even if a few parts are mentioned and not fully explained. If the book had been longer, we could have had a lengthier journey that would have expanded Paola’s development with both Emma and the rouges as well as her allies and foes. I enjoyed the adventure; I just feel like there was more room for it to grow. Especially since the ending, while sweet and interesting, felt rushed. Overall, the Sanctuary of Shadows was a touching ending to Paola’s trilogy. If the author ever had a fitting idea for another adventure for Paola someday, I would be all for it!
August 8, 2022
Note: This is the final book in the Paola Santiago series so this will not be an in-depth review.
When I found out that the third and final book was coming out in the Paola Santiago series, I immediately asked my mom to buy it (She works at my local public library!!!) and when it came in, I started reading it as soon as possibly could, i.e., as soon as I wrapped up the book I was reading at the time. This book wraps up the story of Paola Santiago as they struggle to close the void between the living and the dead and finally, put the spirits to rest once and for all.
As with most middle-grade books, the most important thing is the themes and lessons that are portrayed are the most important part of the book and reading experience. In this one, there is a discussion about the juxtaposition between heroism and villainy and how one must accept their legacy (whether it be personal, familial, or societal) in order to get full acceptance and become a well-rounded individual. This is especially true for our main character, Paola Santiago, as she must not only accept her magical background, which I won’t spoil, but also her identity as a child of immigrants, particularly a group of immigrants that tend to be deeply victimized and vilified.
One of the things that I personally liked about this book is that it didn’t spare any punches when it comes to the messages and themes. I have said this repeatedly: young readers don’t need or enjoy authors that baby them or think that they can’t handle big ideas or themes, especially since young readers tend to be smarter or more mature than their peers due to benefits that reading give them. Because I know this and because I was one of these young readers at one point, I will always applaud authors who also understand and go the extra mile to make their narrative complex and engaging.
All in all, this was a great conclusion to a series that I enjoyed overall, and I look forward to seeing what Mejia writes next. 5 stars!!!!!
When I found out that the third and final book was coming out in the Paola Santiago series, I immediately asked my mom to buy it (She works at my local public library!!!) and when it came in, I started reading it as soon as possibly could, i.e., as soon as I wrapped up the book I was reading at the time. This book wraps up the story of Paola Santiago as they struggle to close the void between the living and the dead and finally, put the spirits to rest once and for all.
As with most middle-grade books, the most important thing is the themes and lessons that are portrayed are the most important part of the book and reading experience. In this one, there is a discussion about the juxtaposition between heroism and villainy and how one must accept their legacy (whether it be personal, familial, or societal) in order to get full acceptance and become a well-rounded individual. This is especially true for our main character, Paola Santiago, as she must not only accept her magical background, which I won’t spoil, but also her identity as a child of immigrants, particularly a group of immigrants that tend to be deeply victimized and vilified.
One of the things that I personally liked about this book is that it didn’t spare any punches when it comes to the messages and themes. I have said this repeatedly: young readers don’t need or enjoy authors that baby them or think that they can’t handle big ideas or themes, especially since young readers tend to be smarter or more mature than their peers due to benefits that reading give them. Because I know this and because I was one of these young readers at one point, I will always applaud authors who also understand and go the extra mile to make their narrative complex and engaging.
All in all, this was a great conclusion to a series that I enjoyed overall, and I look forward to seeing what Mejia writes next. 5 stars!!!!!
November 20, 2022
💚👻👩🏽🌑🌟PAOLA SANTIAGO AND THE SANCTUARY OF SHADOWS💚👻👩🏽🌑🌟
Paola Santiago wants nothing more than to save her best friend Dante. Ever since the traumatizing and exhausting experiences Pao has been through, she hasn't been able to re-connect with the void or her prophetic dreams. Struggling with her emotions and anxiety, Paola spends time with Emma and the Rainbow Rogues. Yet she feels like she can't fit in with them, but is extremely confused about her new feelings. Pao explores her sexuality, while struggling with the burden upon her shoulders. She misses Dante, yet things get more complicated with clones and the rift between the void and the human world thinning. The conclusion to the trilogy.
The last installment in the trilogy lets the plot-driven aspect take a backseat. I enjoyed how it focused more on Paola's trauma. Too often, middle-grade fantasy shy's away from trauma after traumatic events. Paola is an intelligent, caring, and head-strong protagonist. Seeing her crumble and how trauma is affecting every part of her day was something that I liked. The effects of past events affected our protagonist and the heroine's journey was no easy one.
Paola explores her sexuality, something that happened quite suddenly but reflects the changes in our lives as we grow. I like how this became a focal point of the story and she branched out towards more friends. Emma is a character who I find to be very consistent and I enjoy. The trajectory of the story went in a direction I didn't particularly like or hate.
I enjoyed the ending although it wasn't the one that I would have wanted. Going through this adventure was fun. I really liked Dance and Pao's relationship and I'm glad that after everything they went through, they couldn't instantly get to how they used to be. It showed how, over time, friendships can change.
✅PLOT
✅PLOT TWISTS
✅CHARACTERS
Paola Santiago wants nothing more than to save her best friend Dante. Ever since the traumatizing and exhausting experiences Pao has been through, she hasn't been able to re-connect with the void or her prophetic dreams. Struggling with her emotions and anxiety, Paola spends time with Emma and the Rainbow Rogues. Yet she feels like she can't fit in with them, but is extremely confused about her new feelings. Pao explores her sexuality, while struggling with the burden upon her shoulders. She misses Dante, yet things get more complicated with clones and the rift between the void and the human world thinning. The conclusion to the trilogy.
The last installment in the trilogy lets the plot-driven aspect take a backseat. I enjoyed how it focused more on Paola's trauma. Too often, middle-grade fantasy shy's away from trauma after traumatic events. Paola is an intelligent, caring, and head-strong protagonist. Seeing her crumble and how trauma is affecting every part of her day was something that I liked. The effects of past events affected our protagonist and the heroine's journey was no easy one.
Paola explores her sexuality, something that happened quite suddenly but reflects the changes in our lives as we grow. I like how this became a focal point of the story and she branched out towards more friends. Emma is a character who I find to be very consistent and I enjoy. The trajectory of the story went in a direction I didn't particularly like or hate.
I enjoyed the ending although it wasn't the one that I would have wanted. Going through this adventure was fun. I really liked Dance and Pao's relationship and I'm glad that after everything they went through, they couldn't instantly get to how they used to be. It showed how, over time, friendships can change.
✅PLOT
✅PLOT TWISTS
✅CHARACTERS
November 16, 2022
Well, this third installment of Paola Santiago series makes me feel a lot of things.
Packed not only with thrilling actions but also roller coaster EMOTIONS.
It explored the nightmare itself. The pain and despair. Despite the name, El Cucuy, the monster under your bed wasn't a laughing tale at all. Pao need not only her wits to win, but also a strong heart in which she won't be succumbed to fight her worst nightmare. For a 13yo girl, she was brave beyond reasons.
What I like:
- The feelings described and how Pao dealt with them. Her character development. She grows without really losing herself (if that make sense). Still quick witted and stubborn, Pao waved her way throughout this adventure with a bunch of more emotions and feelings.
-The appearance of Emma and the open-minded gangs, The Rogue, was a nice additional touch.
- Pao and Dante's dynamics. I love how it ended between them. The fraternity which was built since book 1 paid off. Their interaction was always intense, and that's what make it good.
- The community value 💜 we call them 'gotong royong' here. Checkin on with your neighbour, friends, and move as a team.
Things I guess could be better:
- I always love how Pao and Emma friendship works. However, the chemistry was lacking if you put them in a romantic feeling. It was just so sudden, and I saw that this book tried very hard to made it believable(?)
- DANTE. I'd love to see his POV really. For someone with that complicated characters, for everything he had to endure, the traumas, and his past. Everything. Even after what happened in the book, I guess that could be more.
- The ending felt a bit rush and there are so much to take in. I dont understand how the magic worked for that particular occurance.
All and all, I like it a lot. I love the series, and I dont think I'd be able to shut up about this book in the near future
💜💜💜
Packed not only with thrilling actions but also roller coaster EMOTIONS.
It explored the nightmare itself. The pain and despair. Despite the name, El Cucuy, the monster under your bed wasn't a laughing tale at all. Pao need not only her wits to win, but also a strong heart in which she won't be succumbed to fight her worst nightmare. For a 13yo girl, she was brave beyond reasons.
What I like:
- The feelings described and how Pao dealt with them. Her character development. She grows without really losing herself (if that make sense). Still quick witted and stubborn, Pao waved her way throughout this adventure with a bunch of more emotions and feelings.
-The appearance of Emma and the open-minded gangs, The Rogue, was a nice additional touch.
- Pao and Dante's dynamics. I love how it ended between them. The fraternity which was built since book 1 paid off. Their interaction was always intense, and that's what make it good.
- The community value 💜 we call them 'gotong royong' here. Checkin on with your neighbour, friends, and move as a team.
Things I guess could be better:
- I always love how Pao and Emma friendship works. However, the chemistry was lacking if you put them in a romantic feeling. It was just so sudden, and I saw that this book tried very hard to made it believable(?)
- DANTE. I'd love to see his POV really. For someone with that complicated characters, for everything he had to endure, the traumas, and his past. Everything. Even after what happened in the book, I guess that could be more.
- The ending felt a bit rush and there are so much to take in. I dont understand how the magic worked for that particular occurance.
All and all, I like it a lot. I love the series, and I dont think I'd be able to shut up about this book in the near future
💜💜💜
April 29, 2024
Great end to a great series.
The author does a pretty good job of transmitting the fear that El Cucuy causes, a villain that certainly has more presence than the antagonist of the previous books.
I also love the Rainbow Rogues! Kit is the funniest character in the series, and I'll die on this hill. The Niños, while significantly less present, are also great (with the exception of Franco, who became increasingly more annoying as the book progressed).
But, I feel like the series relies too heavily on the whole forgiveness thing, even when the actions are just inexcusable. The Cucuy ends up with little to no punishment, and Franco, to a lesser extent, is also absolved of his behavior just because of what happens to him later in the book.
Regardless, I still enjoyed the series, and I would 100% read a spinoff or an extra if it were ever to be released (especially of Dante or Naomi; they still have tons of potential).
P.S. I don't care what anyone says, Pao and Emma are adorable, the girlfriends ever 💕💕 (I wish Mejia had delved into their relationship more in the previous books though).
P.S. 2 The plot twist was crazy, only for that I rank this book higher than its predecessors.
The author does a pretty good job of transmitting the fear that El Cucuy causes, a villain that certainly has more presence than the antagonist of the previous books.
I also love the Rainbow Rogues! Kit is the funniest character in the series, and I'll die on this hill. The Niños, while significantly less present, are also great (with the exception of Franco, who became increasingly more annoying as the book progressed).
But, I feel like the series relies too heavily on the whole forgiveness thing, even when the actions are just inexcusable. The Cucuy ends up with little to no punishment, and Franco, to a lesser extent, is also absolved of his behavior just because of what happens to him later in the book.
Regardless, I still enjoyed the series, and I would 100% read a spinoff or an extra if it were ever to be released (especially of Dante or Naomi; they still have tons of potential).
P.S. I don't care what anyone says, Pao and Emma are adorable, the girlfriends ever 💕💕 (I wish Mejia had delved into their relationship more in the previous books though).
P.S. 2 The plot twist was crazy, only for that I rank this book higher than its predecessors.
September 11, 2022
I can’t figure out what they did with the spoilers warning. So, if you don’t want spoilers, don’t read this review any more!
Interesting that I finished this on 9/11, because this story is ultimately about what made us able to survive that tragedy: the power of community. Paola is determined to somehow save Dante. Which means going through the portal again and somehow fighting the terror there. But it also means comprehending just what is the power of the evil there. Refusing to join a group of people, however that group coalesced, is evil and will only lead to more evil. I got to tell you this book swept me up and carried me away and I was completely involved in it! Highly recommended. More of a 4.5 that a 4 star title. Why isn’t it a 5 star? Maybe because the end of the fantasy was literally the end of fantasy for the characters. The one rule you shouldn’t break in fantasy is to say that it was all a fantasy! That is what ruined the movie version of The Wizard of Oz. The author did it for a reason, to make her point about the value and need for community, a very Hispanic value. Definitely read this trilogy in order or it won’t make sense. But do read it!
Interesting that I finished this on 9/11, because this story is ultimately about what made us able to survive that tragedy: the power of community. Paola is determined to somehow save Dante. Which means going through the portal again and somehow fighting the terror there. But it also means comprehending just what is the power of the evil there. Refusing to join a group of people, however that group coalesced, is evil and will only lead to more evil. I got to tell you this book swept me up and carried me away and I was completely involved in it! Highly recommended. More of a 4.5 that a 4 star title. Why isn’t it a 5 star? Maybe because the end of the fantasy was literally the end of fantasy for the characters. The one rule you shouldn’t break in fantasy is to say that it was all a fantasy! That is what ruined the movie version of The Wizard of Oz. The author did it for a reason, to make her point about the value and need for community, a very Hispanic value. Definitely read this trilogy in order or it won’t make sense. But do read it!
January 6, 2023
Dante is gone. Paola’s best and oldest friend is now trapped, a world away, and what’s worse, Paola can’t rescue him. Or, more like, she’s not allowed to. Now that her father is back, Paola’s usual life has been turned upside down. Her mother used to be easygoing, but with Paola’s dad around, suddenly she’s not allowed to go on epic journeys and save Dante, even though Paola is certain that she’s the only one who can. Has everyone forgotten who saved the world last time?
Paola can’t help but doubt herself, though. Ever since it was revealed that her dad is actually la Llorona’s son, making the spirit Paola’s grandmother, Paola wonders when her evil side will rear its ugly head. Or, when evil will rear its head at all. She can’t help but jump at every sound, peer at every shadow. Could it be that she’s losing her edge?
To read my full review, visit my blog here: https://stephsstoryspace.wordpress.co...
Paola can’t help but doubt herself, though. Ever since it was revealed that her dad is actually la Llorona’s son, making the spirit Paola’s grandmother, Paola wonders when her evil side will rear its ugly head. Or, when evil will rear its head at all. She can’t help but jump at every sound, peer at every shadow. Could it be that she’s losing her edge?
To read my full review, visit my blog here: https://stephsstoryspace.wordpress.co...
April 12, 2023
4/5 stars
Characters: the character development was *chef's kiss*. I loved the way we were able to see Pao's development throughout the book, as well as seeing her come into her identity and legacies. I will say that some of the things were quite repetitive, but overall the characters were pretty good.
Writing/Plot: so at the beginning of the book everything was super boring imo. The Plot was just going in circles, but then when I got about 200 pages in I was very invested. I was reading whenever I had a chance, and it ended up being a really great book. I wish some more things were explained bc there's a few different plot points that were introduced towards the end that I think could've been explained better, but overall it was a pretty good end to the trilogy.
I definitely would recommend this series if you're looking for a fast and easy series to read, and if you like different stories about mythology and folktales!
Characters: the character development was *chef's kiss*. I loved the way we were able to see Pao's development throughout the book, as well as seeing her come into her identity and legacies. I will say that some of the things were quite repetitive, but overall the characters were pretty good.
Writing/Plot: so at the beginning of the book everything was super boring imo. The Plot was just going in circles, but then when I got about 200 pages in I was very invested. I was reading whenever I had a chance, and it ended up being a really great book. I wish some more things were explained bc there's a few different plot points that were introduced towards the end that I think could've been explained better, but overall it was a pretty good end to the trilogy.
I definitely would recommend this series if you're looking for a fast and easy series to read, and if you like different stories about mythology and folktales!
June 30, 2025
4 stars ⭐️
Exciting supernatural elements!
Paola continues to evolve and grow as a character, especially as she faces her emotions and the consequences of past choices. Her inner conflict felt real.
I enjoyed the emotional arcs, the way the story handles grief, guilt and growing up. However, some emotional beats around trauma and self worth were repeated enough for me to feel kind of bored with it.
The incorporation of Mexican folklore and supernatural lore remains such a strong point. Occasionally, the supernatural rules or the world elements felt underdeveloped, which made it harder to fully immerse myself in the stakes.
Some parts dragged a bit, especially in the middle. The story had action, but some parts felt more introspective than necessary for the plot.
Overall, this is a solid continuation and ending of Pao’s journey. It’s heartfelt, culturally rich and emotionally honest. The narrative sometimes leans too much into introspection at the expense of pacing though.
Exciting supernatural elements!
Paola continues to evolve and grow as a character, especially as she faces her emotions and the consequences of past choices. Her inner conflict felt real.
I enjoyed the emotional arcs, the way the story handles grief, guilt and growing up. However, some emotional beats around trauma and self worth were repeated enough for me to feel kind of bored with it.
The incorporation of Mexican folklore and supernatural lore remains such a strong point. Occasionally, the supernatural rules or the world elements felt underdeveloped, which made it harder to fully immerse myself in the stakes.
Some parts dragged a bit, especially in the middle. The story had action, but some parts felt more introspective than necessary for the plot.
Overall, this is a solid continuation and ending of Pao’s journey. It’s heartfelt, culturally rich and emotionally honest. The narrative sometimes leans too much into introspection at the expense of pacing though.
August 26, 2025
This was a good conclusion to the trilogy. A lot happened. I appreciated that nobody pretended Paola was just supposed to be okay mentally or emotionally after everything she had been through. Well, nobody except Paola. But the defensiveness was understandable and eventually she came to terms with it in a healthy way.
There were a few revelations I was not expecting. There were also a few things that happened simply because someone made a silly, selfish decision that usually wouldn't have been a big deal, if not for the stakes we were dealing with.
I wish we'd gotten to learn more about the aftermath. Even so, it was a solid conclusion. The characters do their best in extraordinary situations, and build community to overcome seemingly impossible odds. The lesson that nobody can get by alone, but blood isn't the only thing that matters is very true and I appreciated it. It was a good series.
There were a few revelations I was not expecting. There were also a few things that happened simply because someone made a silly, selfish decision that usually wouldn't have been a big deal, if not for the stakes we were dealing with.
I wish we'd gotten to learn more about the aftermath. Even so, it was a solid conclusion. The characters do their best in extraordinary situations, and build community to overcome seemingly impossible odds. The lesson that nobody can get by alone, but blood isn't the only thing that matters is very true and I appreciated it. It was a good series.
October 2, 2022
This book was... excellent. The very threads of time and the universe(s) are threatened, and it all starts out with a (more or less) simple quest to free Dante! The adventures that happen, characters introduced, secrets uncovered, and sacrifices made all happen in only one book! This book was way more than I expected. (In a good way.)
It's nice to have an LGTBQIA+ main character who handles it like real-life. Pao's insecurities add much to this book series, allowing us to connect with and understand her. How do authors master their kid characters talking exactly like kids do now?! It's amazing the level of depth and seriousness there is while still having humor. How this book included so much - and was so incredible - is beyond me.
It's nice to have an LGTBQIA+ main character who handles it like real-life. Pao's insecurities add much to this book series, allowing us to connect with and understand her. How do authors master their kid characters talking exactly like kids do now?! It's amazing the level of depth and seriousness there is while still having humor. How this book included so much - and was so incredible - is beyond me.
September 1, 2022
3.5 stars / 6.29 on CAWPILE
I thought this was a pretty solid ending to this series. The characters all developed well and were left in a place that felt natural and didn’t leave me wanting. To be honest I wasn’t as impressed with the villain this time as I was the first two books, but that’s okay bc to me at least the real villain felt more like Pao’s insecurities and vulnerabilities.
However, the whole “Señora Mata being Paola from the future” thing? Not a fan. That’s just plain weird. I know time travel was touched on in the second book so it’s not like it was completely out of left field, but it still raises a lot of ick in me so I gotta say it’s a no from me.
I thought this was a pretty solid ending to this series. The characters all developed well and were left in a place that felt natural and didn’t leave me wanting. To be honest I wasn’t as impressed with the villain this time as I was the first two books, but that’s okay bc to me at least the real villain felt more like Pao’s insecurities and vulnerabilities.
However, the whole “Señora Mata being Paola from the future” thing? Not a fan. That’s just plain weird. I know time travel was touched on in the second book so it’s not like it was completely out of left field, but it still raises a lot of ick in me so I gotta say it’s a no from me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews