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Clara is caught in a game of Loteria played by Life and Death themselves. Every time one of the players gets a character on their card the story changes for better or worse. If Life wins the game Clara survives, if Death wins, she takes Clara. Clara is unaware that this is happening all she knows is she needs to save Esteban from the man in the red suit.

This book was cute but it was very dark. It reminded me of the book of life mixed in with some Encanto. Clara is very determined and loves her family but feels left out because she does not feel as extraordinary as them. When her little cousin disappears one night after a tragedy, she embarks on an adventure that could change her life forever. She encounters characters that will only help her in exchange for something, a forest that is alive, and magic at every corner.

I feel like it was a little darker than I expected for a middle grade, but it also shows a lot of character. Clara must face tough decisions and also come to realize that not everything in life is free. She must believe in herself and overcome adversities.

I received this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

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