Title: Plague of Flies: Revolt of the Spirits, 1846
Author: Laurel Anne Hill
Publisher: Sand Hill Review Press
ISBN: 978-1949534207
Pages: 252
Genre: Teen & Young Adult / Magical Realism
Reviewed by: Christina Avina
Hollywood Book Reviews
The need to help others and protect those we love and care for is an inherit trait that most people share with one another. Putting aside the natural instinct to protect oneself, the call to forge ahead against all rocky terrain along the path of life and find a means of protecting our loved ones from the dangers and troubles of this world is something we can all attest to. For some, that means putting aside our dreams and passions to do what is right in the face of adversity. For others, that calling takes on a more pivotal role, putting ourselves into the path of true danger in an effort to save the ones we love most, even if it costs us everything.
In author Laurel Anne Hill’s Plague of Flies: Revolt of the Spirits, 1846, the author explores this level of sacrifice through the protagonist, Catalina Delgado. A young woman during 1846 in Alta California, the future she has held of wrangling cattle and marrying the man of her dreams come crashing down around her when the Bear Flaggers of the United States declare war with Mexico. With one family friend already imprisoned and others murdered, her family falls into the crosshairs of this deadly conflict. Discovering shocking secrets regarding her parentage and her destiny, Catalina must shed the last remnants of her reputation amongst the people and her family, as well as the dreams she’s held onto for so long, in order to find a way to save those she cares for the most from certain doom.
The world-building and character development of this book are just absolutely wonderful. The setting of the Mexico side of the border in Nineteenth century Mexico was an inspired choice, giving a unique perspective in history which is rarely is ever shown. The cultural differences even amongst the Hispanic people and Native Americans, both in behavior and social status, was so fascinating to read about, and did a great job of balancing out the angst and drama that is to be expected from a YA read. The protagonist is a strong and brilliant character, and has a steady and amazing character arc which shows her growth and resilience in the face of untold dangers. Her yearning for spiritual growth and desire to help her family are balanced by the uncertainty and shock of new discoveries about her heritage.
This is the perfect read for those who enjoy YA historical fiction and magical realism reads. The unique setting and atmosphere the author chose, as well as the close cultural examination of the cast of characters, gave such a fantastic perspective that enhanced the tension and drama of the narrative overall. The inclusion of historical figures like John C. Fremont added some depth to the character’s struggles, while the romantic pursuits of the main character in the face of overwhelming odds will speak to the romantic within us all.
Gripping, heart-pounding, and emotional, yet engaging storytelling at its finest, author Laurel Anne Hill’s Plague of Flies: Revolt of the Spirits, 1846 is a must-read YA Historical Fiction and Magical Realism read. The phenomenal writing the author presents and brilliant imagery brings this bright landscape to life keeps the story flowing smoothly, while a heartwarming protagonist will keep readers invested until the book’s final pages.