Review of Death in the Cards by Mia P. Manansala
When I first stumbled across Death in the Cards by Mia P. Manansala, I felt an immediate tug at my heartstrings—the blend of mystery, coming-of-age themes, and a touch of tarot magic sounded too intriguing to resist. As someone who has always been fascinated by the supernatural, and also adores heartfelt YA narratives, I was excited to dive into Danika Dizon’s world. Little did I know that this debut would not only captivate me but also resonate deeply with my own journey of self-discovery.
At the heart of the story is Danika, a fiercely loyal and wonderfully relatable high school junior. Between her role as a receptionist at her mother’s private investigation agency, her budding skills in tarot card reading for her classmates, and her dreams of becoming a detective, we follow her as she navigates both the complexities of adolescence and a thrilling mystery. Things take a dark turn when a stranger seeking a reading vanishes shortly after, setting Danika on a path brimming with danger and self-discovery.
What struck me most about this book is how Manansala weaves Filipino culture seamlessly into the narrative. From mouthwatering references to traditional foods to the practice of Kali, the martial art, each detail adds layers of authenticity that make Danika’s story pop with vibrancy. It’s refreshing to see a protagonist whose background is as rich and colorful as her aspirations.
One standout aspect of the writing is the interplay of the tarot theme within the plot. The cards aren’t just whimsical elements; they are pivotal to Danika’s character growth and the unfolding mystery. It’s fascinating how they guide her decisions and reflect her emotional state. You can feel the stakes rising with each drawn card, bringing a unique twist to the traditional mystery genre.
While the pacing has its moments, particularly a few slow spots in the middle, the gripping beginning followed by a fast-paced conclusion more than compensates for it. I found myself completely invested in Danika’s journey, especially as the narrative reached its climax, with twists that kept me guessing. And the romance—ah, the love triangle between Danika, Gaby, and Alex—was delightful. It managed to be authentic and sweet without overshadowing the main storyline, adding just the right touch of youthful heartache and excitement.
The ending felt satisfying yet tantalizingly open, leaving me eager for Danika’s next adventure. It left me with the feeling that there are more mysteries to unravel and more facets of her character to explore.
Overall, Death in the Cards is a triumph in YA literature that skillfully tackles themes of family loyalty, self-discovery, and the complexities of growing up. I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys a captivating mystery paired with a heartfelt coming-of-age story, especially those who are looking to see their own experiences reflected in a nuanced and meaningful way.
This delightful read reminded me of the power of storytelling to bridge cultures and foster connection, and I can’t wait to see where Danika’s journey takes her next!