8th&up 
 Magic is an integral part of the Mortiz family, and it is considered an honor when a child is old enough to fully embrace their talents. Alex, on the other hand, has been dreading the day when she celebrates her Deathday and must completely accept the powers that she's been hiding. She wants no part of her magical legacy- to her mind being a bruja, or witch, brings nothing but pain and trouble. 
 When Alex attempts to deny her inheritance, her efforts backfire and her entire family suffers the consequences. With the guidance of a boy she doesn't fully trust, Alex will be forced to rely on the powers she never wanted in order to bring her family safely home. 
 Cordova has created a magical world with elements of Greek mythology, Mexican spiritual culture, and her own unique flare. Alex is a sympathetic character with growing pains that will resonate with most teens- even those of the non-magical variety. Cordova's portrayal of Alex's multi-layered connection with both her female friend Rishi and the secretive brujo boy Nova comes across as authentic and meaningful to the story and Alexa's character development. This is the first in a proposed series, and readers will eagerly await their next meeting with the Brooklyn Brujas. 
 This ARC was obtained at BEA16, in exchange for an honest review.