A Constellation of Roses by Miranda Asebedo
I received a complimentary ARC from the publisher, courtesy of Edelweiss, in exchange for an honest review.
A Constellation of Roses Summary
Ever since her troubled mother abandoned her, Trix McCabe has preferred to stay on the move. But when she lands with her long-lost relatives, there’s something special about the McCabe women, something almost magical about their mysterious talents that reminds Trix of her own ability to steal things without anyone noticing, and almost makes her want to stay put for once. Her aunt’s pies seem to cure all ills, her great-aunt’s palm-reading never misses the mark, and her cousin’s ability to uncover a person’s deepest secrets by simply touching them is uncanny. Before long, Trix feels like she might finally belong with this special group of women in this tiny town in Kansas. But when her past comes back to haunt her, she’ll have to decide whether to take a chance on this new life . . . or keep running from the one she’s always known.
Book Details
A Constellation of Roses by Miranda Asebedo
Published November 5th 2019 by HarperTeen
Young Adult Fiction / Magical Realism
Hardcover, 336 pages
My Rating: 4 Stars
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Review
A Constellation of Roses by Miranda Asebedo is a heartwarming YA story set in a delightful, small Kansas town featuring the magical McCabe women. A dusting of magic and a vibrant town set the atmosphere for this whimsical tale.
The story focuses on Trix McCabe, a young teen with a knack for pick-pocketing, who finds her way back to her roots and the McCabe women who show her the real meaning of family.
A Constellation of Roses is the second novel by Miranda Asebedo and companion to her debut novel, The Deepest Roots.
Both novels feature strong female bonds and lovely writing that feels magical yet grounded as Asebedo touches on tough issues.
Having read both novels, I can definitely say that I’m a fan now. The way she weaves into her stories positive female relationships, real issues teen’s face, all wrapped up in a vibrant and magical setting — make for a wonderful reading experience with just the right amount of feels.
Trix is flawed but relatable protagonists living on her own after her mom disappears one night. After she gets caught stealing, she finds herself sent off to live with some aunts she never knew about.
The McCabe women all have rare abilities that the town-folk knows about and accepts. From pies that cure all ills and palm-reading that is never off-mark, to the ability to touch a person and reveal their deepest secrets—Trix finds out her own unique gifts are all part of her heritage.
Trust, family, friendship and the meaning of home mix with just the right touch of magic. There is even a sweet romance that blooms in the background and secondary characters that add humor and warmth to the story.
In the End
A great reading choice for readers who enjoy magical realism, strong female bonds and a focus on family relations. A Constellation of Roses is another fantastic read by Miranda Asebedo and I’m definitely looking forward to more.