A review by lulu_reads_books
The Waves Take You Home by María Alejandra Barrios Vélez

In "The Waves Take You Home," author María Alejandra Barrios Vélez crafts a heartfelt story that explores the interplay between family, heritage, and self-discovery, set against the vibrant backdrop of Colombia’s Caribbean coast.

The story follows protagonist Violeta Sanoguera who is torn between the life she built in New York City and her ancestral roots in Colombia. When her grandmother passes away, Violeta returns home, haunted by her grandmother’s ghost. She discovers that she is the heir to the family restaurant—a place she was once advised to flee. As Violeta grapples with her past, she embarks on a transformative journey of healing and understanding.

Barrios Vélez’s prose is evocative, capturing the essence of Colombian street food, culture, and the Caribbean sea. The novel delves into themes of love, identity, and the ties that bind us to our origins. The ghostly presence of Abuela adds a magical realism element, infusing the narrative with both nostalgia and hope.

The Waves Take You Home is a captivating debut that celebrates the strength of women, the power of memory, and the beauty of homecoming, as it weaves together a story of love, loss, and the resilience of its characters. This novel is a must-read for fans of Gabriel García Márquez and those who appreciate richly textured storytelling.