Book: Cemetery Boys: Espíritu by Aiden Thomas
Reviewed by Maggie Hayes
Rating: 5/5
Cemetery Boys: Espíritu by Aiden Thomas
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
Aiden Thomas masterfully blends magical lore and Latinx tradition, crafting a story rich in world-building and character development. I often struggle to visualize as I read, but I could picture Julian and Yadriel fighting the shadows so clearly; the writing was just descriptive enough without becoming overwhelming.
I love the pivot to Julian as the main character. He is torn between Yadriel and the brujx community and his friends and family, from whom he must keep his death and newfound ability to communicate with the dead a secret. His inner turmoil broke my heart. He is so young (only sixteen!) to be dealing with such a heavy burden. Add in the dark spots, hallucinations, and shadows that seem to be speaking to him, and Julian is GOING. THROUGH. IT.
I also liked the continued exploration of Yadriel's place within the brujx community through the introduction of Angel, a nonbinary brujx. Angel's ready acceptance by their círculo is a great juxtaposition to Yadriel's own journey. As a parent, I was particularly interested in the line Enrique (Yadriel's father) has to walk between letting Yadriel help and keeping him safe from the growing danger around them.
Ultimately, this is a story about family and the friends who become your family. Julian and Yadriel's relationship has linked their families together, and I loved seeing everyone work together to protect each other. The connection between Julian and Yadriel, especially the way they have become each other's safe place, warmed my heart. For a YA book, their relationship felt realistic and appropriately sweet (shared kisses only).
I think Cemetery Boys: Espíritu is an excellent follow-up to the stellar original. I love how it builds upon the events of the first book while still feeling fresh and giving Julian's story room to shine.
Thank you to the author, Feiwel & Friends, and NetGalley for providing an ARC.