Vampires of El Norte by Isabel Cañas
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Book Overview:
Vampires of El Norte by Isabel Cañas is a sweeping novel depicting the agonizing battle over land at the 1840s Texas-Mexico border with supernatural forces playing a part in threatening their way of life. This story begins with Nena the ranchero’s daughter and Nèstor a vaquero and their fledgling love for each other. During a late-night excursion, Nena is attacked by a monstrous creature, and Nèstor desperate to get help rushes her back to the ranchero with an unresponsive Nena to get aid. Thinking she’s dead and wanting to avoid trouble with her father he flees into the night.
Years later Nèstor returns to the ranchero to fend off the attacks of the Anglo settlers seeking to claim their land and expand their territory. It’s then he comes face to face with Nena the woman he believed was dead and realizes his grave error. Though he tries desperately to right his wrong and explain why he left Nena is enraged and refuses to hear him out.
In addition to the increasing threat from the Anglo settlers from the north, there’s a dark danger that stalks them. Nena and Nèstor must put aside their differences and unite to combat the evil forces threatening their livelihood.
My Review:
I’m not going to beat around the bush here I found this story to be simply amazing. I enjoyed every minute of reading this tale and believe I’ve found a new favorite author I’m so appreciative of her work. The main elements that made this story work for me were the prose, beautiful characterization, sweeping romance, opulent themes, and horrifying supernatural elements.
Let’s talk about how this story was beautifully written the prose was so rich and descriptive with tangible analogies that created a superb gothic atmosphere. From the opening scene, the foreboding and dread were palpable and thick. This made it super easy for me to become immersed in this story.
Additionally, the development of the characters was exquisite. Nena was my favorite and had such a beautiful character arc. She started as a dutiful rancheros daughter resigned to following the rules set forth by the current societal structure to safeguard the home she loved so dearly. Over a short time, she grew and evolved as a person and I really appreciated watching this beautiful transformation.
Also, the romance between Nèstor and Nena had me in a chokehold. I was so invested in what would happen between them! While I understood Nèstor’s reasons for leaving that night I also felt Nena’s pain over being abandoned and the rage she felt. But their chemistry was undeniable. I didn’t expect to read a horror book and experience such a breathtaking romance but I’m here for it!
Another lovely element was the deeper theme found in this story exploring colonization. The author’s choice to juxtapose the invasion of the Anglo settlers with the rising threat of the vampires was excellent. It was clear that she felt the Anglo settlers were similar to the vampires in their actions and pursuit of the ranchero’s land causing similar devastation and harm with their horrific behavior.
And when it comes to the supernatural elements they were tastefully interwoven into this story increasing the unsettling feelings of dread, fear, and unease regarding the safety of the rancheros and vaqueros. Furthermore, the little twist introduced in the story created a darker more sinister element to the events that were transpiring upping the ante.
Finally, the conclusion to this tale was perfection. Cañas crafted a satisfying ending full of action and epic character arcs. I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough.
This book was an experience of epic proportions and I really enjoyed Cañas’s ability to weave such a rich and immersive tale full of rich history, vampire lore, complex characters, and a beautiful romance. I’m super excited to read The Hacienda and explore more of her work. Definitely a new favorite author.
To learn more about the books I chose to celebrate the spooky season read My October TBR 2024: 5 Star Predictions
