In a world where literature often struggles to authentically represent Latine experiences and magical realism, Raquel Vasquez Gilliland’s Lightning in Her Hands emerges as a refreshing storm of representation, romance, and raw emotion. This second installment in the Wild Magic series proves that sometimes the most powerful magic lies not in supernatural abilities, but in learning to love oneself.
The Story’s Heart
Teal Flores carries a weight heavier than the storms she unconsciously summons—a broken gift of weather control and a soul fragment stolen by her mother when she was just a child. When she needs a date for her ex’s wedding, she turns to her childhood best friend Carter Velasquez, who happens to need a wife to secure his inheritance. What starts as a marriage of convenience evolves into a journey of self-discovery, healing, and unexpected love.
Strengths that Shine
Authentic Voice and Cultural Representation
- Rich portrayal of Latine family dynamics
- Natural integration of Spanish language and cultural elements
- Complex family relationships that feel genuine and lived-in
Character Development
- Teal’s journey from self-doubt to self-acceptance is beautifully crafted
- Strong supporting cast, especially the sisters Sage and Sky
- Realistic portrayal of mental health struggles (bipolar disorder)
World Building
- Seamless blend of magical realism with contemporary setting
- Unique take on hereditary magic and gifts
- Vivid descriptions of weather phenomena tied to emotions
Writing Style
Gilliland’s prose is as dynamic as her protagonist’s weather-controlling abilities. She masterfully weaves poetic descriptions with sharp dialogue, creating a reading experience that feels both magical and grounded. The author’s background as a poet shines through in her metaphorical language and atmospheric descriptions.
Romance That Weather Any Storm
The love story between Teal and Carter is both sweet and spicy, with their chemistry building naturally despite their initial reservations. Their journey from childhood friends to lovers feels authentic, though some readers might find the pacing of their relationship development slightly rushed in places.
Areas for Growth
While the novel largely succeeds in its aims, there are a few elements that could have been strengthened:
- The antagonist (Teal’s mother) could have been more fully developed
- Some plot points feel resolved too easily
- Secondary conflicts sometimes get lost in the main narrative
Mental Health Representation
One of the novel’s greatest strengths is its honest portrayal of living with bipolar disorder. Teal’s struggles are handled with sensitivity and authenticity, avoiding common stereotypes while showing both the challenges and the possibility of managing mental health with support and understanding.
Cultural Magic
The integration of Latine culture and magical realism feels natural and respectful, avoiding the common pitfall of exoticization. The magic system, tied to family lineage and emotional truth, creates an interesting commentary on generational trauma and healing.
Comparative Analysis
While Lightning in Her Hands stands strong on its own, readers familiar with the first book in the series, Witch of Wild Things, will appreciate the continued world-building and character development. The novel sits comfortably alongside works like Isabel Cañas’s The Hacienda and Zoraida Córdova’s Brooklyn Brujas series, though with its own unique voice.
Technical Elements
- Pacing: Generally well-maintained, though some sections feel rushed
- Dialogue: Natural and engaging, with effective code-switching
- Point of View: Strong first-person narration that keeps readers invested
- World-building: Consistent and immersive
Final Verdict
Lightning in Her Hands is a good read for its innovative blend of romance, magical realism, and mental health representation. While there are some areas that could be strengthened, the novel’s strengths far outweigh its weaknesses.
Reader Recommendations
This book is perfect for:
- Fans of magical realism
- Readers seeking authentic Latine representation
- Romance lovers who enjoy complex family dynamics
- Those interested in mental health representation in fiction
Looking Forward
Gilliland’s growth as an author is evident in this second installment of the Wild Magic series. Her unique voice and ability to blend cultural elements with contemporary romance suggests exciting possibilities for future works.
Conclusion
Lightning in Her Hands proves that romance novels can be both entertaining and meaningful, addressing serious themes while maintaining the joy and hope that make the genre beloved. While not perfect, it’s a significant contribution to the growing body of diverse romance literature, offering representation that feels both authentic and magical.
For readers seeking a romance that goes beyond traditional tropes while maintaining the comfort of familiar elements, Lightning in Her Hands offers a storm worth weathering. Just like its protagonist, the novel shows that sometimes the most powerful magic comes from learning to accept and love oneself, lightning and all.