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A review by 2treads
Ballad & Dagger by Daniel José Older
hopeful
mysterious
sad
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.5
—"la mentors mata al mentiroso." The lie kills the liar.
Older's story practically vibrates with music, culture, and identity. Living in a piece of modern Bronx, the people of San Madrigal hold tightly to their traditions of story, religion, and language. So when the opportunity arises to go back home, tensions rise and threaten to split the community apart.
What drew me in was Mateo, awkward, shy, and intensely talented with music; his relationship with his aunt(s), friends, and the complexities of who his people are and their continued survival in a world not attuned to their magic.
He was able to keep the momentum and mystery that surrounds the destruction of their island and the ways in which a return or arising can be achieved. But there exists dark forces that seek to use the powers and kinds of our heroes for their own goals.
Older's story practically vibrates with music, culture, and identity. Living in a piece of modern Bronx, the people of San Madrigal hold tightly to their traditions of story, religion, and language. So when the opportunity arises to go back home, tensions rise and threaten to split the community apart.
What drew me in was Mateo, awkward, shy, and intensely talented with music; his relationship with his aunt(s), friends, and the complexities of who his people are and their continued survival in a world not attuned to their magic.
He was able to keep the momentum and mystery that surrounds the destruction of their island and the ways in which a return or arising can be achieved. But there exists dark forces that seek to use the powers and kinds of our heroes for their own goals.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Death, Violence, Blood, and Murder