A Touch of Moonlight: A Novel

Dive into the enchanting world of Yaffa S. Santos' "A Touch of Moonlight: A Novel," a captivating blend of magical realism, romance, and cultural exploration that will leave you spellbound. Following the success of "A Taste of Sage," Santos delivers another heartwarming and engaging tale that resonates with themes of identity, family, and finding your place in the world. Meet Larimar Cintrn, a vibrant and relatable young woman juggling the pressures of corporate life, familial responsibilities, and a secret that sets her apart from everyone she knows. By day, she's a driven brand manager for Beacon Caf, a rapidly expanding bakery chain in New York City. By night, or rather, on full moons, she transforms into a ciguapa a creature of Dominican folklore with strikingly long hair and feet that face backward. This dual existence leaves Larimar feeling like an outsider, struggling to reconcile her heritage with her love for '90s punk rock and the modern world. Larimar's life takes an unexpected turn when her best friend introduces her to Ray, a charming bakery owner who shares her passion for punk music. Ray's independent bakery, Borrachitos, is a haven of authentic flavors and community spirit. Could Ray be the one who finally accepts Larimar for who she truly is, ciguapa and all? However, fate throws a wrench into their budding romance. Beacon Caf is expanding, and Larimar is tasked with overseeing the opening of a new location in New Jersey. The catch? It's directly across the street from Ray's beloved Borrachitos. Torn between her career aspirations and her growing feelings for Ray, Larimar faces a moral dilemma. Will she prioritize her corporate ambitions, potentially jeopardizing Ray's livelihood, or will she find a way to protect his business and nurture their connection? As the grand opening of Beacon Caf looms, Larimar finds herself caught in a web of secrets and conflicting loyalties. She must decide whether to reveal her true identity as a ciguapa and risk everything she's worked for, or continue to hide her magical nature and potentially lose the chance at true love and self-acceptance. "A Touch of Moonlight" is more than just a romance; it's a vibrant celebration of Dominican heritage, family bonds, and the courage to embrace one's unique identity. Santos masterfully weaves together elements of magical realism, cultural traditions, and contemporary issues, creating a story that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. Expect witty banter, poignant moments, and a satisfying exploration of what it truly means to be yourself. Readers who enjoyed "A Taste of Sage," as well as fans of authors like Sarah Addison Allen and Adriana Herrera, will find themselves captivated by this enchanting and uplifting novel. This feel-good story is a perfect blend of Romantic Comedy and fantasy with unforgettable characters and relatable themes, that will leave you wanting more. 'A Touch of Moonlight' explores the complexities of identity, the importance of community, and the power of embracing one's true self, even when it means defying expectations. The book is receiving praise for its authentic representation of Dominican culture and its exploration of universal themes of belonging and self-discovery. Prepare to be swept away by Larimar's journey of self-discovery and the magic that unfolds when she finally embraces her true self.