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A Tall Dark Trouble
Practical Magic meets Erika L. Sanchez in this dazzling YA fantasy about a Cuban American family of brujas who get entangled in love, magic, and murder, alternating between 1980s Cuba and present-day Miami.
Twin sisters Ofelia and Delfi know better than to get involved with magic. Their Mami has seen to that. After all, it was magic that cursed their family, turning love into a poison. Romance is off the table for the Sanchez women. They’ve seen the curse take hold enough times to know how that road ends. And yet. Sometimes a girl catches feelings and just can’t help herself.
When Ofelia and Delfi begin having premonitions of a series of murders, the sisters know it is time to embrace their magical inheritance to get to the bottom of the mystery and save innocent lives. Teaming up with their best friend Ethan and with brooding detective-in-training Andres, the sisters set out to learn the truth. They just need to make sure Mami doesn’t find out what they’re up to.
Meanwhile, in 1980 Cuba, Anita struggles with a different magical conflict. Her mother, Mama Orti, is a bruja who belongs to a secret coven of elders and Anita knows she will be forced to join the coven herself one day. She sees no escape, though the thought of staying and letting this future claim her is terrifying. Ofelia, Delfi, and Anita’s stories collide as each woman steps into her power and embraces who she truly is, refusing to be subdued by any person, coven, or curse.
In this stunning YA contemporary fantasy, debut author Vanessa Montalban explores the interlocking struggles of three generations of women in one family. An unputdownable debut for anyone who roots for magic, sisterhood, and love.
Twin sisters Ofelia and Delfi know better than to get involved with magic. Their Mami has seen to that. After all, it was magic that cursed their family, turning love into a poison. Romance is off the table for the Sanchez women. They’ve seen the curse take hold enough times to know how that road ends. And yet. Sometimes a girl catches feelings and just can’t help herself.
When Ofelia and Delfi begin having premonitions of a series of murders, the sisters know it is time to embrace their magical inheritance to get to the bottom of the mystery and save innocent lives. Teaming up with their best friend Ethan and with brooding detective-in-training Andres, the sisters set out to learn the truth. They just need to make sure Mami doesn’t find out what they’re up to.
Meanwhile, in 1980 Cuba, Anita struggles with a different magical conflict. Her mother, Mama Orti, is a bruja who belongs to a secret coven of elders and Anita knows she will be forced to join the coven herself one day. She sees no escape, though the thought of staying and letting this future claim her is terrifying. Ofelia, Delfi, and Anita’s stories collide as each woman steps into her power and embraces who she truly is, refusing to be subdued by any person, coven, or curse.
In this stunning YA contemporary fantasy, debut author Vanessa Montalban explores the interlocking struggles of three generations of women in one family. An unputdownable debut for anyone who roots for magic, sisterhood, and love.
376 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 29, 2023
26 people are currently reading
13805 people want to read
About the author
Vanessa Montalban
3 books159 followersVanessa Montalban channels her wanderlust for far-off worlds into writing young adult fantasy and thrillers, including A Tall Dark Trouble, winner of the Florida Book Awards in the YA category, and These Vengeful Wishes. She’s a first-generation college graduate from the University of Central Florida with bylines in Reactor Magazine, Crime Reads, and Diabolical Plots. Her newest novel Midnight's Vicious Toll is coming Summer 2027 with Penguin Random House.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 115 reviews
January 7, 2023
This story lingered in my mind for years. A constant, steady companion. I really love it. I hope you do too.
August 16, 2022
Ofelia and Delfi may be twins, but their personalities are like two sides of a coin. When their plans to use their bruja magic to earn a few bucks telling fortunes over the summer turns sour, strange happenings in their neighborhood leave them no choice but to investigate. Could the dark forces have something to do with their family history in Cuba? It's up to them to find out--and stop it.
From page one, you'll fall in love with these sisters and their synergy. Spot-on family and sibling humor, swoony love interests, and creepy chills. This book has it all. I loved it!
From page one, you'll fall in love with these sisters and their synergy. Spot-on family and sibling humor, swoony love interests, and creepy chills. This book has it all. I loved it!
September 12, 2023
A Tall Dark Trouble is such a delightful book to read. It’s described and categorized as a contemporary YA fantasy/fiction novel with a little magical realism thrown in. I’m going to have to disagree with this categorization. First, it’s definitely fiction. There’s also a little fantasy. However, it is certainly not magical realism. It is much more of a paranormal book that has both contemporary as well as historical fiction. It’s also educational, which honestly might be my favorite part about it.
One of the qualms I have about religion (Yes, I dare say religion in this book review) is that it tends to focus on a more monotheistic belief system and the differing sections of said belief system. There usually is very little mention of other belief systems, and when they are mentioned, they are either presented incorrectly or as an opposing belief to the current popular belief system. For example, If I said Voodoo, what is the very first thing that comes to mind? More than likely it’s either curses or the vision of “witch doctor.” But what else do you know? What else do I know?
In A Tall Dark Trouble, Vanessa Montalban blends the story of a Cuban-American immigrant family into a tale of struggle to triumph over past traumas all the while giving both a history lesson on Cuba’s political past and an education on the different cultural and religious practices in Cuba and among Cuban culture. We are introduced to the world of the Sanchez sisters. Identical twins Delfi and Lela are recent highschool graduates who live in Miami with their mother. It is a household of financial struggles as well as emotional and mental struggles. Delfi and Lela are witches or brujas, and they keep this secret from their single mother. Why? Probably because their mother is single and doing everything she can to keep the family together since their father is no longer in the picture. (You will get no spoilers out of me.) But, it’s probably also because she is a heavy church-goer and doesn’t want her daughters to be involved in anything related to Santeria or other magical practices. Because of this, Delfi and Lela have to learn about their magical abilities on their own. And, because they have to learn, we get to learn all about Santeria and Regla de Ocha-Ifa with them.
The Sanchez sisters are having visions, and what they see disturbs them. Lela fears the visions and wants to shut them off completely. Delfi, however, wants to dive head in. they are identical physically, and in their love for their mother and themselves. But, that is where the similarity stops. While Lela is the quiet, sheepish little cute nerd, Delfi is the bold, outspoken ‘It” girl. They couldn’t be more opposite and completely identifiable from one another. And, this makes them completely lovable. You have no choice but to root for them. Throughout the entire novel Delfi consistently pushes Lela to try and learn how to get a better hold of their abilities while Lela just wants to take a hard pass. It’s completely adorable.
However, they are not the only characters in this book that are truly worthy of your love and affection and/or even maybe some strong dislike. The author does a great job with character development. None of the side characters really feel like archetypes. They are each in turn given depth to their character and how they became who they are. Some of the more intriguing characters are Mama Orti and Dona Aura.
This book is paced phenomenally. There were no times when I felt that the plot lulled or was rushed. The climax and ending were both evenly paced and the conclusion gave just enough to end the story without going on and on forever. After reading, I was left with a feeling of closure for all the characters involved. It has a happy ending but not a perfectly happy ending. It made sense and matched the feel of the rest of the book.
There were a few small issues that I had with the book. And, when i say few, i mean a very small few. There were some points where information was thrown in and didn’t seem to connect with any other parts of the story. For instance, in the conclusion to the story, Delfi mentions that she loves dancing and can now get back to it. I have no recollection of reading that anywhere throughout the book. I could be wrong, but I didn’t remember it while reading. There were a few other instances like this as well.
Also, I don’t understand the title. Usually, a tall, dark anything is a man. If that’s the case, what man are we referring to? Gilberto, Rafa, Ethan, or Andres? Or, are the Sanchez women the tall, dark trouble? Or is it the magic or the spirits? If it refers to romance, I feel like the title doesn’t really represent the book. Is there romance in it? Yes, but it isn’t the central theme that I picked up on while reading. Sisterhood and family bonding was the main theme that I saw while reading. It’s even a little bit of coming-of-age story and into your personal power more than a romance.
This is a great book. It’s a great positive and educational book that can serve as a great pallet cleanser or energy cleanser. I would definitely recommend reading this book after a hard-hitting book to reset your aura or anytime you just need some familial love and positivity in your life. The witch vibes are strong.
5/5
Thank you to Vanessa Montalban for providing me with this ARC. I leave this review voluntarily.
One of the qualms I have about religion (Yes, I dare say religion in this book review) is that it tends to focus on a more monotheistic belief system and the differing sections of said belief system. There usually is very little mention of other belief systems, and when they are mentioned, they are either presented incorrectly or as an opposing belief to the current popular belief system. For example, If I said Voodoo, what is the very first thing that comes to mind? More than likely it’s either curses or the vision of “witch doctor.” But what else do you know? What else do I know?
In A Tall Dark Trouble, Vanessa Montalban blends the story of a Cuban-American immigrant family into a tale of struggle to triumph over past traumas all the while giving both a history lesson on Cuba’s political past and an education on the different cultural and religious practices in Cuba and among Cuban culture. We are introduced to the world of the Sanchez sisters. Identical twins Delfi and Lela are recent highschool graduates who live in Miami with their mother. It is a household of financial struggles as well as emotional and mental struggles. Delfi and Lela are witches or brujas, and they keep this secret from their single mother. Why? Probably because their mother is single and doing everything she can to keep the family together since their father is no longer in the picture. (You will get no spoilers out of me.) But, it’s probably also because she is a heavy church-goer and doesn’t want her daughters to be involved in anything related to Santeria or other magical practices. Because of this, Delfi and Lela have to learn about their magical abilities on their own. And, because they have to learn, we get to learn all about Santeria and Regla de Ocha-Ifa with them.
The Sanchez sisters are having visions, and what they see disturbs them. Lela fears the visions and wants to shut them off completely. Delfi, however, wants to dive head in. they are identical physically, and in their love for their mother and themselves. But, that is where the similarity stops. While Lela is the quiet, sheepish little cute nerd, Delfi is the bold, outspoken ‘It” girl. They couldn’t be more opposite and completely identifiable from one another. And, this makes them completely lovable. You have no choice but to root for them. Throughout the entire novel Delfi consistently pushes Lela to try and learn how to get a better hold of their abilities while Lela just wants to take a hard pass. It’s completely adorable.
However, they are not the only characters in this book that are truly worthy of your love and affection and/or even maybe some strong dislike. The author does a great job with character development. None of the side characters really feel like archetypes. They are each in turn given depth to their character and how they became who they are. Some of the more intriguing characters are Mama Orti and Dona Aura.
This book is paced phenomenally. There were no times when I felt that the plot lulled or was rushed. The climax and ending were both evenly paced and the conclusion gave just enough to end the story without going on and on forever. After reading, I was left with a feeling of closure for all the characters involved. It has a happy ending but not a perfectly happy ending. It made sense and matched the feel of the rest of the book.
There were a few small issues that I had with the book. And, when i say few, i mean a very small few. There were some points where information was thrown in and didn’t seem to connect with any other parts of the story. For instance, in the conclusion to the story, Delfi mentions that she loves dancing and can now get back to it. I have no recollection of reading that anywhere throughout the book. I could be wrong, but I didn’t remember it while reading. There were a few other instances like this as well.
Also, I don’t understand the title. Usually, a tall, dark anything is a man. If that’s the case, what man are we referring to? Gilberto, Rafa, Ethan, or Andres? Or, are the Sanchez women the tall, dark trouble? Or is it the magic or the spirits? If it refers to romance, I feel like the title doesn’t really represent the book. Is there romance in it? Yes, but it isn’t the central theme that I picked up on while reading. Sisterhood and family bonding was the main theme that I saw while reading. It’s even a little bit of coming-of-age story and into your personal power more than a romance.
This is a great book. It’s a great positive and educational book that can serve as a great pallet cleanser or energy cleanser. I would definitely recommend reading this book after a hard-hitting book to reset your aura or anytime you just need some familial love and positivity in your life. The witch vibes are strong.
5/5
Thank you to Vanessa Montalban for providing me with this ARC. I leave this review voluntarily.
August 1, 2023
A TALL DARK TROUBLE was a fun and magical story that follows Cuban twins, Delfi and Ofelia, who are planning to spend their summer telling fortunes using their (forbidden) bruja magic. Strange things start happening, their magic isn’t working as it should, and the girls suspect that something in their past may be causing their magic to suffer. With the story’s dual timelines, readers are taken from present-day Miami and transported to 1980s Cuba, where the girls Cuban and family history is explored, and together they work to figure out what happened in the past that’s affecting their present.
This was such a fun story from start to finish. I adored the sisters’ family dynamic and how despite being twins, they couldn’t have been more different. I enjoyed learning about the girls family history and I loved how readers get a little history lesson on Cuba in the 80s. There’s also a bit of romance thrown in along with some thrills and chills, which all blended together to make one fantastic debut. 4.5 stars. Many thanks to @zandoyr and @turnthepagetours for gifting a copy of the book for the tour!
This was such a fun story from start to finish. I adored the sisters’ family dynamic and how despite being twins, they couldn’t have been more different. I enjoyed learning about the girls family history and I loved how readers get a little history lesson on Cuba in the 80s. There’s also a bit of romance thrown in along with some thrills and chills, which all blended together to make one fantastic debut. 4.5 stars. Many thanks to @zandoyr and @turnthepagetours for gifting a copy of the book for the tour!
Want to read
August 22, 2023A Latinx Practical Magic? About Cuban American psychics in Miami uncovering a murderous brujo cult? Practical Magic was my comfort movie for so many years growing up. I love love loved the spooky magical energy and women being badasses who rediscover their magic and their sisterhood. I am so excited to see a book inspired by such a comfort movie!!!
August 24, 2023
Pick up this book ASAP! It’s perfecto for Latinx Spooky Season 🖤💀
I adore this story so much that I got a little emotional reading it because of all the drama, mystery, suspense, Spanglish, found family, loyalty, ugh sisterhood! I LOVED IT ALL
Dual Timeline and multiple POVs set in Cuba 1980 - Miami 2016, ( with a lot of Cuban history but please don’t forget this is fiction, not everything has to match to dates of past events)
Delfi and Lela who are twins sisters born from a strong lineage of Santeras were my absolute favorite characters, I love them both on their own way..
What an incredible murder mystery filled with Magia 🖤
I adore this story so much that I got a little emotional reading it because of all the drama, mystery, suspense, Spanglish, found family, loyalty, ugh sisterhood! I LOVED IT ALL
Dual Timeline and multiple POVs set in Cuba 1980 - Miami 2016, ( with a lot of Cuban history but please don’t forget this is fiction, not everything has to match to dates of past events)
Delfi and Lela who are twins sisters born from a strong lineage of Santeras were my absolute favorite characters, I love them both on their own way..
What an incredible murder mystery filled with Magia 🖤
April 3, 2023
I haven’t read a fantasy YA in a long time and this was a great one to break that streak. The multiple timeslines/POVs kept me gripped.
June 7, 2023
For fans of magical fantasy set in interesting locations, this is a book for you. I loved following Ofelia and Delfi through their journey of discovery, as well as learning more about Cuba and it’s culture and history.
The book is fantasy with a dual timeline, between modern day Florida and 1980s Cuba.
One thing that jarred me slightly - and I may be incorrect, so please do correct me if I am!! - is that the present day timeline appeared to be set in around 2016. However, it’s mentioned a few times that El Comandante (aka Castro) is still alive, which is true, but he was only leader until 2008 from what I could tell, so I was a little confused at some historical details.
The Spanish throughout was fairly well done, although I wonder if it may be a little tricky with some words that aren’t really explained with context/translated for any non Spanish speaking readers.
Don’t get me wrong, I did love this book and definitely recommend it! I really enjoyed the historical timeline set in Cuba, and I learned a lot about that part of history, with a bonus magical flair. I was also wildly proud of myself for having an inkling about the ‘twist’ that came at the end 👀 pero qué sorpresa
If you’re interested in Cuba, historical fantasy, or dual timeline novels, this is one you should have on your tbr!
[I received an ARC of A Tall Dark Trouble thanks to NetGalley and the publisher. All opinions are, as always, my own]
The book is fantasy with a dual timeline, between modern day Florida and 1980s Cuba.
One thing that jarred me slightly - and I may be incorrect, so please do correct me if I am!! - is that the present day timeline appeared to be set in around 2016. However, it’s mentioned a few times that El Comandante (aka Castro) is still alive, which is true, but he was only leader until 2008 from what I could tell, so I was a little confused at some historical details.
The Spanish throughout was fairly well done, although I wonder if it may be a little tricky with some words that aren’t really explained with context/translated for any non Spanish speaking readers.
Don’t get me wrong, I did love this book and definitely recommend it! I really enjoyed the historical timeline set in Cuba, and I learned a lot about that part of history, with a bonus magical flair. I was also wildly proud of myself for having an inkling about the ‘twist’ that came at the end 👀 pero qué sorpresa
If you’re interested in Cuba, historical fantasy, or dual timeline novels, this is one you should have on your tbr!
[I received an ARC of A Tall Dark Trouble thanks to NetGalley and the publisher. All opinions are, as always, my own]
October 28, 2024
I was so invested in learning more about Delfi, Lela and Anita’s stories and in finding out how they intersect. It left me wanting to know more about Cuban history and my Cuban roots. Just like that first morning sip of Cuban coffee, I absolutely loved this YA Fantasy debut and Rebecca Soler’s authentic delivery really made it sing.
Thank you to Hear Our Voices Tours, Vanessa Montalban and Zando Young Readers for the opportunity to listen to the audiobook of A Tall Dark Trouble. This is my honest review.
You can check out some of my favorite quotes from the book HERE.
Thank you to Hear Our Voices Tours, Vanessa Montalban and Zando Young Readers for the opportunity to listen to the audiobook of A Tall Dark Trouble. This is my honest review.
You can check out some of my favorite quotes from the book HERE.
May 26, 2023
Loved it. I couldn't put it down until the end....
![Profile Image for julia ☆ [owls reads].](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1636739475i%2F5520447._UX200_CR0%2C0%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
May 21, 2024
Really liked the magic here and the sisters' relationship! The plot regarding the main mystery with the murders was also pretty well written and engaging. My problem was that I had a bit of difficulty telling the POVs apart and the split narrative in the past timeline interrupted the flow of the main story for me.
October 16, 2024
This story sucked me in and had me in trance with all the twists and turns it made. Then to find out that everything connects to the twins mom 🤯. I’m glad we got to see the mom pov because it definitely made this book a full circle moment.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 27, 2023
In 2016 Miami, twins Defli and Lela have been followed by malicious magic and a love curse their entire lives, leading to them trying to suppress the magic that lives within them. But when they start having visions of murders that have yet to happen, they realize that it’s time to embrace their magic in order to help save innocent lives. Alongside their best friend Ethan and detective-in-training Andres, the sisters set out to figure out how to control their magic and stop their visions from coming true.
In 1980 Cuba, Anita is also struggling with her magic in a different way. She was raised by her mother, the head of a secret magical cult, and uses her abilities to whisper to spirits - not to save herself, but to help those who her mother’s cult have injured. As the days tick toward Anita’s initiation, she makes secret plans to find her way out of Cuba and away from her mother’s clutches.
I don’t think I have the words to explain how much I loved this book. It was a bit slow going at the beginning as I got to know the characters and get into the groove of the different POVs and the jump between timelines, but once it got going, it never stopped. Montalban brings to life a story that on its surface is a bit of a fantasy murder mystery, but also weaves in the beauty of sisterhood and familial love with a bit of magic and romance tossed in.
The way each of the girls (Delfi, Lela, and Anita) grow into their own and learn the power of their inner strength and magic develops slowly throughout and is one of the things that ties the two timelines together so seamlessly. They have each struggled to come to terms with what has happened in their lives and what they can and cannot control. But each is able to move forward and find something that feels better for them with the help of the people and relationships around them. As the story progresses and more and more is revealed in both timelines, we are taken on a journey that feels incredibly grounded despite the fantasy elements weaved in.
It is clear that Montalban put a lot of love and care into creating this story and weaving in bits of the very real struggle of growing up multicultural with the fantasy elements. Real life can be hard to swallow and by providing a contemporary fantasy space to present some historical events, Montalban teaches the reader in a way that makes us want to learn more rather than run and hide from the ugly truths.
Disclaimer: I received an advanced copy of this book from the publisher for free and have voluntarily written this review.
In 1980 Cuba, Anita is also struggling with her magic in a different way. She was raised by her mother, the head of a secret magical cult, and uses her abilities to whisper to spirits - not to save herself, but to help those who her mother’s cult have injured. As the days tick toward Anita’s initiation, she makes secret plans to find her way out of Cuba and away from her mother’s clutches.
I don’t think I have the words to explain how much I loved this book. It was a bit slow going at the beginning as I got to know the characters and get into the groove of the different POVs and the jump between timelines, but once it got going, it never stopped. Montalban brings to life a story that on its surface is a bit of a fantasy murder mystery, but also weaves in the beauty of sisterhood and familial love with a bit of magic and romance tossed in.
The way each of the girls (Delfi, Lela, and Anita) grow into their own and learn the power of their inner strength and magic develops slowly throughout and is one of the things that ties the two timelines together so seamlessly. They have each struggled to come to terms with what has happened in their lives and what they can and cannot control. But each is able to move forward and find something that feels better for them with the help of the people and relationships around them. As the story progresses and more and more is revealed in both timelines, we are taken on a journey that feels incredibly grounded despite the fantasy elements weaved in.
It is clear that Montalban put a lot of love and care into creating this story and weaving in bits of the very real struggle of growing up multicultural with the fantasy elements. Real life can be hard to swallow and by providing a contemporary fantasy space to present some historical events, Montalban teaches the reader in a way that makes us want to learn more rather than run and hide from the ugly truths.
Disclaimer: I received an advanced copy of this book from the publisher for free and have voluntarily written this review.
August 7, 2023
a tall dark trouble was a captivating read that had all the enchanting elements i look for in a fantasy book, magic, mystery, family drama, a little romance, murder! the story follows twin sisters lela and delfi in modern-day miami, and anita in 1980s cuba under castro's rule.
the twins have been warned to avoid magic due to a family curse that dooms any romantic love for the sanchez women. but when they start having visions of murders, they decide to use their magical abilities to uncover the truth and save lives of fellow witches. and in the past, anita has found herself heir to her mother's powerful coven, a role she is unwilling to accept. while the twins had distinct personalities, i found anita's pov more engaging and her connection to the twins intriguing. none of the romance was at the center of the plot and neither of the romantic interests were particularly...interesting to me anyway.
each of the three women discovers her strengths and learns to embrace her power and identity, standing strong against curses and covens that try to hold them back. this debut YA fantasy delves into the challenges faced by three generations of women and seamlessly weaves afro-cuban folklore into its contemporary setting. one thing that could have been improved though are the concepts and terms in spanish that were left here and there without any explanation, they may confuse readers. overall, a great read for those who love stories of magic, strong women, and the power of sisterhood
thanks to netgalley and zando projects for this uncorrected proof!
the twins have been warned to avoid magic due to a family curse that dooms any romantic love for the sanchez women. but when they start having visions of murders, they decide to use their magical abilities to uncover the truth and save lives of fellow witches. and in the past, anita has found herself heir to her mother's powerful coven, a role she is unwilling to accept. while the twins had distinct personalities, i found anita's pov more engaging and her connection to the twins intriguing. none of the romance was at the center of the plot and neither of the romantic interests were particularly...interesting to me anyway.
each of the three women discovers her strengths and learns to embrace her power and identity, standing strong against curses and covens that try to hold them back. this debut YA fantasy delves into the challenges faced by three generations of women and seamlessly weaves afro-cuban folklore into its contemporary setting. one thing that could have been improved though are the concepts and terms in spanish that were left here and there without any explanation, they may confuse readers. overall, a great read for those who love stories of magic, strong women, and the power of sisterhood
thanks to netgalley and zando projects for this uncorrected proof!
October 4, 2023
A Tall Dark Trouble by Vanessa Montalban
I just finished this fantastic book! I started this book last month but because my mental health highjacked my September I didn’t finish it as fast as I would have lol. If you know me irl you know that I’ve been talking about this book and recommending it before I even finished. This book has everything without it being too much!
If you are looking for a Latinx witch/cult vibe this October then you need to add this book to your TBR this month!
This story is about this Cuban American brujas that live in Miami. They are trying to figure out their own powers while trying to solve/uncover a murderous brujo cult. There’s a dual timeline between modern day and 1980s Cuba. A couple of povs. I loved these twin sisters so much and their family dynamic. They are so different from one another. I was able to figure out who was who on the cover based on their personality lol. I loved the history lesson when it came to Cuba in the 80s and how the author sprinkled some brujas in there. I will ofcourse post the synopsis because I’ll just spill the beans if I go any further.
This book is Vanessa’s Montalban first baby and I cannot wait for more!
What To Expect:
🔮 Fantasy
🔮 YA
🔮Romance
🔮 Mystery
🔮 Brujas
🔮 Curses
I just finished this fantastic book! I started this book last month but because my mental health highjacked my September I didn’t finish it as fast as I would have lol. If you know me irl you know that I’ve been talking about this book and recommending it before I even finished. This book has everything without it being too much!
If you are looking for a Latinx witch/cult vibe this October then you need to add this book to your TBR this month!
This story is about this Cuban American brujas that live in Miami. They are trying to figure out their own powers while trying to solve/uncover a murderous brujo cult. There’s a dual timeline between modern day and 1980s Cuba. A couple of povs. I loved these twin sisters so much and their family dynamic. They are so different from one another. I was able to figure out who was who on the cover based on their personality lol. I loved the history lesson when it came to Cuba in the 80s and how the author sprinkled some brujas in there. I will ofcourse post the synopsis because I’ll just spill the beans if I go any further.
This book is Vanessa’s Montalban first baby and I cannot wait for more!
What To Expect:
🔮 Fantasy
🔮 YA
🔮Romance
🔮 Mystery
🔮 Brujas
🔮 Curses
August 14, 2023
DFN 48%: I swear I gave it a go, but I reckon this book isn't my cup of tea.
Upon reading the synopsis of this book, it piqued my interest so much that I was eagerly anticipating its release, and I was thrilled when I got approved for the ARC. However, I was left disappointed and unable to connect with any of the characters.
The twins Lela and Delfi Sánchez knew very little about magic due to their mother's prohibition. Moreover, they grapple with the mystery of their past, not understanding why their mother fled and why they're under a family curse: anyone who romantically loves them will be ruined.
I believe it could be intriguing for those who are just starting to read fantasy and don't want an overly complex world. In my opinion, there were a few details lacking both in the setting and in getting to know the characters' personalities. I'm not sure if this was just my experience, but while reading, I felt that the plot wasn't moving forward, and that was quite frustrating.
Upon reading the synopsis of this book, it piqued my interest so much that I was eagerly anticipating its release, and I was thrilled when I got approved for the ARC. However, I was left disappointed and unable to connect with any of the characters.
The twins Lela and Delfi Sánchez knew very little about magic due to their mother's prohibition. Moreover, they grapple with the mystery of their past, not understanding why their mother fled and why they're under a family curse: anyone who romantically loves them will be ruined.
I believe it could be intriguing for those who are just starting to read fantasy and don't want an overly complex world. In my opinion, there were a few details lacking both in the setting and in getting to know the characters' personalities. I'm not sure if this was just my experience, but while reading, I felt that the plot wasn't moving forward, and that was quite frustrating.
January 24, 2024
Wow! I love a story about finding your strength, connecting with your past, and forging a new trail. Ofelia and Delfi, twins with emerging psychic abilities at odds with their mother’s strict religious practices, are haunted by recurring visions of dark magic and violence. When evidence suggests that those visions are a warning, they feel compelled to use their gifts to help save those in danger. But getting mixed into the drama reveals disturbing truths about their mother and the life she left behind when she escaped Cuba. Their adventure kept me at the edge of my seat with a fantastic rhythm of danger, revelations, and palpable emotions. I love the way several magical practices unique to Latinx cultures are represented throughout the novel. I’ve seen this referenced as Practical Magic meets I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter. While I love Practical Magic, I would say this falls more in line with the energy in Aiden Thomas’s Cemetery Boys, and that’s a high compliment!
October 21, 2024
Ofelia and Delfi aren't supposed to get involved with magic. Their family is cursed. Cursed with a love curse. No one can fall in love in their family. It always ends badly. The sisters start having premonitions of murders and feel helpless when they do nothing. They decide that they have to get to the bottom of the murders and maybe they will learn more about their own family. I love that this story was two different timelines and multiple points of view. It all flowed really smoothly. I was never confused as to what part of the story I was reading. This book was so good. I loved the found family feel.
September 21, 2023
I am so annoyed with myself for not reading this sooner!! I absolute loved this book from start to finish. I loved the witchy vibes, the characters, the multiple POVs, the mystery aspect to it and learning more about Cuban history and culture. I could not put this book down but at the same time I didn’t want it to end. This was honestly a perfect witchy read for me, I absolutely adored it and HIGHLY recommend it to anyone who loves witches. I now have to buy the finished copy of it because I need this book in my collection. Thank you NetGalley for giving me this e-arc.
June 27, 2023
This book was very enjoyable and kept my interest. It read really fast. The characters were interesting and relatable. The story was very compelling and engaging involving witches and cults. The story does deal with Cuba in the 1980s but it is very intergraded with the story. Overall, I really enjoyed this book! I was given this arc from NetGalley, Zando Projects, and Vanessa Montalban for an honest review.
December 28, 2023
I love this world.
This story is incredible and I have enjoyed every word. Lela and Delfi and Anita are remarkable leads in a story that combines culture, love, family, politics, and most importantly, magic. My heart jumped and raced and broke along with the characters thanks to the authors incredible voice. This was just beautiful. Read it!
This story is incredible and I have enjoyed every word. Lela and Delfi and Anita are remarkable leads in a story that combines culture, love, family, politics, and most importantly, magic. My heart jumped and raced and broke along with the characters thanks to the authors incredible voice. This was just beautiful. Read it!
May 26, 2023
I couldn’t put this down! The bond between the sisters and the development of the rest of the characters made me obsessed with this ! Can’t wait to see what comes next by this writer !!
October 31, 2024
Vanessa Montalban’s "A Tall Dark Trouble" is a captivating and unexpected young adult novel that both thrills and moves its readers. The story shifts between the mysterious Cuba of 1980 and the present day, blending this historical backdrop with an original setting filled with magic and witchcraft. The result is an immersive reading experience that sparks the imagination while offering thought-provoking themes.
The novel unfolds through three perspectives, adding depth and intrigue. In the present, we follow sisters Ofelia and Delfi as they discover their magical powers and try to interpret their visions. This journey brings them face-to-face with danger and mystery, but luckily, they can rely on the support of their friends. Meanwhile, in 1980s Cuba, we witness Anita’s story, a young girl desperate to escape the confines of her repressive community. Montalban masterfully conveys the desperation and tension in Anita’s story, creating a compelling link between past and present that adds layers to the narrative.
The novel has dark, mystical elements that contribute to a rich, almost tangible atmosphere. While some scenes can feel eerie, the author strikes a balance, making it accessible even for readers who aren’t typically drawn to horror. The clever plot twist is both unexpected and well-crafted, adding to the suspense that pervades the story.
The writing is smooth and engaging, making it easy to keep reading as curiosity builds. She captures her characters’ emotions beautifully—particularly Anita’s longing and the sisters’ uncertain yet exhilarating journey. The moving ending is a satisfying conclusion that leaves a lasting impression. "A Tall Dark Trouble" is a must-read for fans of historical fiction with a touch of magic and mystery, and it certainly leaves us eager for "These Vengeful Wishes," which will be the next book by Vanessa Montalban.
The novel unfolds through three perspectives, adding depth and intrigue. In the present, we follow sisters Ofelia and Delfi as they discover their magical powers and try to interpret their visions. This journey brings them face-to-face with danger and mystery, but luckily, they can rely on the support of their friends. Meanwhile, in 1980s Cuba, we witness Anita’s story, a young girl desperate to escape the confines of her repressive community. Montalban masterfully conveys the desperation and tension in Anita’s story, creating a compelling link between past and present that adds layers to the narrative.
The novel has dark, mystical elements that contribute to a rich, almost tangible atmosphere. While some scenes can feel eerie, the author strikes a balance, making it accessible even for readers who aren’t typically drawn to horror. The clever plot twist is both unexpected and well-crafted, adding to the suspense that pervades the story.
The writing is smooth and engaging, making it easy to keep reading as curiosity builds. She captures her characters’ emotions beautifully—particularly Anita’s longing and the sisters’ uncertain yet exhilarating journey. The moving ending is a satisfying conclusion that leaves a lasting impression. "A Tall Dark Trouble" is a must-read for fans of historical fiction with a touch of magic and mystery, and it certainly leaves us eager for "These Vengeful Wishes," which will be the next book by Vanessa Montalban.
October 19, 2023
3.5 ⭐️
September 14, 2023
I wanted to like this so much more.
October 26, 2024
I’m excited to be participating in this Audio Book tour and to share my review today: 𝐀 𝐓𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐃𝐚𝐫𝐤 𝐓𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐛𝐥𝐞 by 𝑽𝒂𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒔𝒂 𝑴𝒐𝒏𝒕𝒂𝒍𝒃𝒂𝒏
In short: I loved this book. I was so entertained I couldn’t stop listening until I was done and my head was spinning.
My thoughts in detail:
I always enjoy a dual timeline and a multiple POV story. In this one we get both, in the contemporary timeline we get Lela & Delfi and their different personalities and thoughts about their magical powers.
As they work not only to solve a mystery brought on by their visions, but as they both grapple with how they feel about their family history.
The past timeline, we meet Anita, and her dramatic life under the hard watch of her mother, the leader of the main Santera group that watches over the acuban dictator.
The MCs were very well developed, each having their distinct personalities, but the closeness in the sisters, the love, trust, is perfect and so relatable. No matter the differences, the sisters never once stop looking after the other, and I love that they both open up to each other and actually are able to talk and solve their problems.
I enjoyed the past timeline and the Anita arc very much. Living in Cuba in the 80s and the situations she goes through in the story and how we finally put her piece in the puzzle towards the end was very satisfying.
Also, getting immersed in the customs and lore of the Santería practice was fascinating.
I really loved the narration of the audiobook. I think it was done very well.
This one is great for those who love:
- Afro-Caribbean culture
- Generational family drama
- dual timeline
- Multiple POV
- Paranormal and magica elements
- Sprinkle of mystery and romance
Overall, I think this was a fantastic debut novel and it puts the author on my radar for her future work.
Thanks to @hearourvoicestours and author @vvmomtalban for the gifted audiobook.
In short: I loved this book. I was so entertained I couldn’t stop listening until I was done and my head was spinning.
My thoughts in detail:
I always enjoy a dual timeline and a multiple POV story. In this one we get both, in the contemporary timeline we get Lela & Delfi and their different personalities and thoughts about their magical powers.
As they work not only to solve a mystery brought on by their visions, but as they both grapple with how they feel about their family history.
The past timeline, we meet Anita, and her dramatic life under the hard watch of her mother, the leader of the main Santera group that watches over the acuban dictator.
The MCs were very well developed, each having their distinct personalities, but the closeness in the sisters, the love, trust, is perfect and so relatable. No matter the differences, the sisters never once stop looking after the other, and I love that they both open up to each other and actually are able to talk and solve their problems.
I enjoyed the past timeline and the Anita arc very much. Living in Cuba in the 80s and the situations she goes through in the story and how we finally put her piece in the puzzle towards the end was very satisfying.
Also, getting immersed in the customs and lore of the Santería practice was fascinating.
I really loved the narration of the audiobook. I think it was done very well.
This one is great for those who love:
- Afro-Caribbean culture
- Generational family drama
- dual timeline
- Multiple POV
- Paranormal and magica elements
- Sprinkle of mystery and romance
Overall, I think this was a fantastic debut novel and it puts the author on my radar for her future work.
Thanks to @hearourvoicestours and author @vvmomtalban for the gifted audiobook.
October 24, 2024
I loved this book! The plot, the characters, the dual timelines all worked for me. I've read books with dual timelines that fall flat because there's definitely one main timeline. The other is too weak and the information should have been incorporated differently. But that's not the case here. Both plotlines felt critical and came together beautifully.
I also think the character work was really well done. Lela and Delfi have similar values but really different personalities. Lela is more careful and never breaks rules while Delfi is more impulsive and pushes boundaries. They complement each other perfectly. And I'm a little bit in love with their mother. She suffered so much but persevered. She is resilient and her character arc was so satisfying.
I listened to the audiobook and I have a few thoughts on it. The story is told from alternating POVs between Lela, Delfi, and Anita. I could always tell when I was in Anita's POV but occasionally got mixed up between Lela and Delfi. It says at the beginning of each chapter whose POV it is but I just didn't always catch it. But other than that I think the narration was fantastic, and I stayed immersed in the story. For an audiobook with a single narrator, I think this was really well done.
Overall, I think this was a stunning debut novel and I will definitely be picking up Vanessa's next book! I received a free copy of the audiobook from the author as part of an IG tour but my opinions are my own.
I also think the character work was really well done. Lela and Delfi have similar values but really different personalities. Lela is more careful and never breaks rules while Delfi is more impulsive and pushes boundaries. They complement each other perfectly. And I'm a little bit in love with their mother. She suffered so much but persevered. She is resilient and her character arc was so satisfying.
I listened to the audiobook and I have a few thoughts on it. The story is told from alternating POVs between Lela, Delfi, and Anita. I could always tell when I was in Anita's POV but occasionally got mixed up between Lela and Delfi. It says at the beginning of each chapter whose POV it is but I just didn't always catch it. But other than that I think the narration was fantastic, and I stayed immersed in the story. For an audiobook with a single narrator, I think this was really well done.
Overall, I think this was a stunning debut novel and I will definitely be picking up Vanessa's next book! I received a free copy of the audiobook from the author as part of an IG tour but my opinions are my own.
September 1, 2023
I enjoyed this book way more than I thought I was going to. I've been loving these Spanish/Puerto Rican/Cuban stories so much lately - and this one has been the best so far! Our story covers 3 Bruja's who's stories are interconnected throughout two timelines. Delfi and Lela are twins during the "current" timeline (I say current because it's 2016 when it takes place but its 2023) and then Anita from the past. I loved the way the stories intertwined and just the magic behind everything. This book was so rich in culture and I just drunk it all in. I tend to read my books before bed (since it's really the only time I have) and I found myself counting down the minutes until I could curl up in bed and continue this story. Although, I figured out every twist and reveal there was in the book - it was still executed so well. I remember seeing a thing saying "Latin writers don't have to translate for you" and it's true but Vanessa - thank you for doing so. It was done in such a smooth way. There wasn't a direct translation for every Spanish phrase but it was woven into the story. It helps understand what was said without disrupting the flow. I love when Spanish phrases are still used throughout the book but the subtle translation does help a non-Spanish speaker, like myself, understand what is being said.
I loved these characters so much. Delfi and Lela were twins but their personalities are complete opposites. They compliment each other and it's clear how much they rely on each other. I was a little worried starting the book that the three point of views was going to be too much but it was perfect. Each side of this story needed to be told and I'm glad we got each. Delfi was definitely the more outward confident of the two. Embracing her magic faster and being more vocal about how she felt. Lela was more reserved but she had just as much gusto. As soon as she became more involved in her magic and learned that it was okay to accept it - she became confident in herself and it was amazing to see her grow. And then Anita had the biggest struggle. She was the heir to the organization that was not a good organization. I'm so glad that her story was told as well.
Overall, A Tall Dark Trouble by Vanessa Montalban is going to be the bruja story you need for this fall season - and every season. I absolutely loved this story and the way it was told. The interconnecting timelines was a definite must in order to understand everything. I loved the rich culture that was introduced in this book making it even that much better. Each character was so well written and so different in their own way. I highly recommend this book for anyone who loves strong witches, family values, and murder mystery!
I loved these characters so much. Delfi and Lela were twins but their personalities are complete opposites. They compliment each other and it's clear how much they rely on each other. I was a little worried starting the book that the three point of views was going to be too much but it was perfect. Each side of this story needed to be told and I'm glad we got each. Delfi was definitely the more outward confident of the two. Embracing her magic faster and being more vocal about how she felt. Lela was more reserved but she had just as much gusto. As soon as she became more involved in her magic and learned that it was okay to accept it - she became confident in herself and it was amazing to see her grow. And then Anita had the biggest struggle. She was the heir to the organization that was not a good organization. I'm so glad that her story was told as well.
Overall, A Tall Dark Trouble by Vanessa Montalban is going to be the bruja story you need for this fall season - and every season. I absolutely loved this story and the way it was told. The interconnecting timelines was a definite must in order to understand everything. I loved the rich culture that was introduced in this book making it even that much better. Each character was so well written and so different in their own way. I highly recommend this book for anyone who loves strong witches, family values, and murder mystery!
October 1, 2023
I saw this recommended on Instagram by a creator that always has fantastic recommendations... and this one definitely did not disappoint.
I listened to this book on audio and I enjoyed it but I wish I had a physical copy as well (will be purchasing one) because there is a significant amount of Spanish spoken throughout the book. I would love to translate what is said so I have that in the story. It didn't take away from the story at all because the majority of it was translated but that is just something I like to do if another language is spoken in a story.
The story follows twin girls who live in Miami. They are bruja's and are learning about their powers, but their mom does not want them getting involved in any magic- at all. Their ancestors are from Cuba and were part of a group of bruja's that were in service to Fidel Castro during his reign.
Their family is cursed- any man that falls in love with them slowly goes mad. There is a hinting that something happened with a boy that fell in love with one of the twins but it never says exactly what happens.
The timeline of the past and the current story was interesting and I liked that this story stayed true to some of the history of what happened in Cuba. The twins relationship with their mother was complex and I like how it was resolved in the end.
Also Ethan was so sweet.
Overall I highly recommend this book and I cannot wait to get my hands on a physical copy of it. I am looking forward to more books from this author and this was a fantastic debut novel.
I listened to this book on audio and I enjoyed it but I wish I had a physical copy as well (will be purchasing one) because there is a significant amount of Spanish spoken throughout the book. I would love to translate what is said so I have that in the story. It didn't take away from the story at all because the majority of it was translated but that is just something I like to do if another language is spoken in a story.
The story follows twin girls who live in Miami. They are bruja's and are learning about their powers, but their mom does not want them getting involved in any magic- at all. Their ancestors are from Cuba and were part of a group of bruja's that were in service to Fidel Castro during his reign.
Their family is cursed- any man that falls in love with them slowly goes mad. There is a hinting that something happened with a boy that fell in love with one of the twins but it never says exactly what happens.
The timeline of the past and the current story was interesting and I liked that this story stayed true to some of the history of what happened in Cuba. The twins relationship with their mother was complex and I like how it was resolved in the end.
Also Ethan was so sweet.
Overall I highly recommend this book and I cannot wait to get my hands on a physical copy of it. I am looking forward to more books from this author and this was a fantastic debut novel.
March 21, 2023
Two twin witches share visions of a woman who later turns up dead. They decide it’s time to finally learn what their powers can really do … but that means ignoring their mother’s warnings. Meanwhile, in the past, a girl who seems likely to be one of their ancestors is also reckoning with her powers and the corrupt government that wants to wield her to its own ends.
DNF @ 18%
I tried, but I just couldn’t get into it! Not only does the concept fail to stand out among the other witchy YA titles that have come out in the past year or so, but the execution is also blah. I felt no attachment to any of the characters I probably should’ve. Like, the twins are literally clutching their chests over Idaly and I’m over here wondering why I’m supposed to care about her when she has no agency, no wants, and no sense of what she cares about. Like, Ofelia is swooning over Ethan and I’m over here wondering what he looks like and when his personality is supposed to kick in.
The cover will catch eyes, and I’m still happy to recommend it to teens who ask for witches or Latinx fantasy. But my honest opinion is that this book is forgettable. I wish the inside was as good as the cover!
Thank you to NetGalley for providing early access in exchange for an honest review.
DNF @ 18%
I tried, but I just couldn’t get into it! Not only does the concept fail to stand out among the other witchy YA titles that have come out in the past year or so, but the execution is also blah. I felt no attachment to any of the characters I probably should’ve. Like, the twins are literally clutching their chests over Idaly and I’m over here wondering why I’m supposed to care about her when she has no agency, no wants, and no sense of what she cares about. Like, Ofelia is swooning over Ethan and I’m over here wondering what he looks like and when his personality is supposed to kick in.
The cover will catch eyes, and I’m still happy to recommend it to teens who ask for witches or Latinx fantasy. But my honest opinion is that this book is forgettable. I wish the inside was as good as the cover!
Thank you to NetGalley for providing early access in exchange for an honest review.
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