Review of The Encanto’s Curse by Melissa de la Cruz
There’s something deeply magnetic about the blend of fantasy and romance, especially when infused with rich cultural elements and character complexities. The Encanto’s Curse, the sequel to The Encanto’s Daughter, certainly fits that bill, drawing me in with its vibrant narrative and compelling characters. I received an ARC from the publisher in exchange for an honest review, and I’m thrilled to share my thoughts on this enchanting continuation of MJ’s journey.
Picking up several months after the events of the first book, we find our protagonist MJ still grappling with her emotions for Lucas, who is now engaged to Amador. This love triangle is the heart of the story, but it’s entwined with darker themes as a malevolent manananggal begins to attack MJ’s kingdom, stripping her of her magic. The stakes are high, and Melissa de la Cruz masterfully navigates MJ’s internal struggles, making her feelings of jealousy and longing relatable. I could empathize with MJ’s attempts to seek solace in Qian, Nix’s older brother, as she wrestles with her unattainable love.
One of the highlights of this installment is the development of Amador’s character. In the first book, she appeared as merely a mean girl, but here, we delve deeper into her motivations and the difficult home life that shapes her actions. As she grapples with her own issues, particularly her tumultuous relationship with her mother, I found myself reflecting on the complexities of teenage life, where everyone is fighting their own battles, often unseen. The nuance added to her character added depth to the narrative and shifted my perspective, showcasing Cruz’s deft ability to layer complexity into her characters.
The pacing in The Encanto’s Curse is a whirlwind, but thanks to Cruz’s skillful writing, I never felt lost. Each chapter pulses with energy, propelling the reader forward while still pausing just enough for poignant moments of reflection. The voice in the narrative is engaging, making it easy to lose myself in the story’s rhythms. As I read, I appreciated how some details were fleshed out while others were kept brisk, allowing me to focus on the core emotional threads.
A particularly memorable aspect for me was the seamless weaving of Filipino folklore throughout the story, enriching the fantasy elements while grounding them in cultural heritage. This cultural layering added an authenticity that elevated the narrative, and I found myself immersed not only in MJ’s journey but also in the vibrant world that Cruz has built.
In conclusion, The Encanto’s Curse is a must-read for fans of the first book, as well as for those who appreciate YA fantasy that defies the typical romance conventions. It’s a beautiful exploration of love, identity, and the pressures of adolescence, wrapped in a captivating narrative. My reading experience left me with much to ponder, especially regarding the nature of love and personal growth. If you’re looking for a story that combines heartfelt emotions with thrilling fantasy elements, this book is calling your name.
Discover more about The Encanto’s Curse (The Encanto’s Daughter, #2) on GoodReads >>