Review of Death in the Cards by Mia P. Manansala
I literally squealed with delight when I got my hands on Mia P. Manansala’s young adult debut, Death in the Cards! Having devoured every word of her Tita Rosie’s Kitchen Mystery series, I dove into this book with sky-high expectations—expectations that were met and then some! From the very first page, this story entwined itself around my heart, weaving together themes of family, the supernatural, and a nail-biting mystery that felt absolutely magical.
Meet Danika Dizon, a remarkable teen with a spirit as fierce as her intellect. I found myself wishing she could be my best friend! Danika’s strong ties to her family and her love for tarot cards set the stage for a riveting adventure. The plot kicks off with what seems like an innocuous card reading, but when the ominous death card appears, it foreshadows the heart-stopping mystery that follows—a client vanishing without a trace. What I adored was how seamlessly her parents’ detective instincts flowed into her journey; you can truly feel the weight of her heritage as she channels their energy to seek answers.
The pacing of Death in the Cards is spot-on. I stayed up way too late, gripping my pillow as the twists and turns unfolded. Each revelation about the missing girl’s secret life caught me off-guard, and they felt as tangible as Danika’s emotions. Additionally, the clever way tarot readings were integrated into the narrative wasn’t just decorative; they added layers of intrigue and meaning that made me question everything. The cards almost felt like characters themselves, whispering secrets and prophecies that sent shivers down my spine.
Mia P. Manansala has this incredible gift for bringing characters to life in vivid detail. I felt as if I were right beside Danika, piecing together clues while desperately trying to stay ahead of danger. Her prose felt intimate, allowing me to hear the characters’ voices and feel their fears as if they were my own. This isn’t merely a mystery; it’s a heartfelt adventure that had my heart racing and my mind spinning with endless theories.
If you’re already a fan of Manansala, you’re in for an absolute treat! And if this is your first time diving into her work, you’re about to meet your new favorite YA detective. This book is akin to your favorite snack—totally addictive and impossible to put down.
Death in the Cards appeals not just to mystery lovers but also to anyone who appreciates stories rich in heart and soul—infused with a dash of supernatural intrigue. If you’re seeking a thoughtful, thrilling read that explores family bonds and the journey of self-discovery, then do yourself a favor and grab this book immediately. Your next favorite detective awaits!
Many thanks to NetGalley and Random House Children’s | Delacorte Press for sharing this YA debut arc with me in exchange for my honest thoughts. I can’t wait to hear what you all think!