Review: Cemetery Boys by Aiden Thomas

My feelings for this book are too big to put into words properly. This is certainly in my top 5 of 2020, and I am sure it will become a standby I re-read time and time again.

Cemetery Boys is the story of Yadriel, a 15-year-old brujo whose family does not fully accept his status as such because he is trans. Yadriel and his cousin Maritza (who I would 10000% read a novel about) set out to prove Yadriel is a true brujo by having him summon a spirit and help him pass to the other side. Problem is there is unfinished business keeping the spirit, Julian, tethered to life. Hijinks ensue.

This book made me cry 13 times. I am not completely sure about that count because there were just times I was just continuously crying over multiple pages. But I wrote crying/still crying/sobbing in my book 13 times. They weren't all sad tears; some were just an abundance of emotions that had no choice but to exit my body as tears. Happiness, sadness, relief, joy, frustration, you will be reveling in all of these emotions while you read this story.

The only negative I can think of is that I was 100% sure who was up to the villainous behavior before the book's first 1/3 was over. This was not an actual problem, it in no way affected my emotional journey through this story, which is what you really want from fiction. I will be reading Aiden Thomas's future books, no question. They will be one of my favorites.

This book was just such a fun time. The plot builds beautifully; the information revealed throughout the book is just at such an enjoyable pace. The characters in the book are totally a stand out feature. The rich emotional lives of so many are displayed in such a raw and impactful way. If you can leave this book, not loving multiple people, we are very different. Especially Maritza.

The romance in this book is so heartbreaking and sweet and fun. Yadriel and Julian compliment each other so well. I don't even care that the whole book is over just a few days; this romance is so very good. I particularly love how immediately accepting of any and all personal details Julian is, and not just with Yadriel, he just hears what people say about themselves and believes them. Such a good character trait.

I gave this book five stars on Goodreads and The StoryGraph. Basically, I want everyone to read this book. It is a queer paranormal romance/adventure/mystery. If you want a fun book that will dehydrate you through your tear ducts, then get thee to the bookstore (or your local library).