ARC Review: The Manchineel

By Jessica Carrasquillo

Started: 11 / 17

Finished: 11 / 18

Hello besties!

This review is special because I received The Manchineel as an Advance Reader Copy (ARC) in exchange for an honest review. This book will officially launch January 16. 

Back Jacket Synopsis: Welcome to the glittering heart of Los Angeles, where dreams are nurtured and crushed, and where "The Manchineel" unfolds a gripping, psychological thriller that explores the captivating beauty and ominous shadows of nature. 

Meet Elyse Santiago, a magnetic beauty who finds a new life far from her roots in the sultry, Miami mangroves. With an irresistible online presence, her mesmerizing videos peel back the layers of nature's raw allure and its unforgiving brutality. Yet, beneath her innocent exterior, she carries concealed scars and is haunted by the voice of a man she believed she had silenced forever. 

As her closest friend Stella prepares to embark on a life-altering journey, Elyse grapples with the harsh realities of survival in a city that demands everything. Amid this turmoil, she crosses paths with Ben—an imposing, charismatic attorney renowned for his formidable presence and business acumen. Boundaries blur as they navigate the treacherous terrain between love and loyalty, revenge and justice, survival and damnation. 

A sinister plot unfolds that will challenge your understanding of trust and the lengths to which people will go to protect their darkest secrets. 

Nikki’s Review: Once I started I couldn't put it down and finished the book in less than 24 hours! I am from Southern California so I loved reading a book set in Los Angeles, and the characters even drove through my hometown of Lancaster which I enjoyed. 

I found both of the main characters, Elyse and Ben, to be quite likable despite the wild ride they went through in the story. Just when I thought it couldn't get any crazier, it did! The stakes kept rising and rising and in its own twisted way, showed the magic of love, friendship, and loyalty. 

This book brings the reader's morals into question as the main characters navigate some difficult situations and end up making life altering decisions. Some of the subject matter might not be for everyone (there is abuse, adultery, and murder) so make sure you are comfortable with those things before diving into this story. 

I found the author’s writing to be top notch which is probably why I was able to read it so quickly. It had so many hilarious, heartfelt, and quotable moments. I absolutely loved the way that the author wove botany into the story. It was fresh and offered a unique element of foreshadowing. 

Great quotes from the book: 

“Nature is brutal, isn't it? It’s impolite. It takes what it wants, and it doesn't ask permission. Given the option to shrink or thrive, it will choose to thrive no matter the cost.” 

“A girl can dream. Some people take virtual tours of mansions they’ll never afford on Zillow. Elyse fantasizes about interesting ways to kill Ben’s wife. Everyone is different.” 

“Movie” Rating: R for adult content and themes 

Overall Recommendation: The blurb from GoodReads says it perfectly: The Manchineel tackles controversial themes with sensitivity and insight. Within its pages, readers will find realistic characters grappling with moral dilemmas, blurring the lines between right and wrong. If that is something you are intrigued by, you will enjoy this book! 

Pre Order The Manchineel now using this link

Disclaimer: *Our reviews are solely our opinions and not swayed by any outside factors. The reviews are for fun and not meant to be taken as a professional book endorsement, review, or advice. 

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ARC Review: The Stricken by Morgan Shamy