A Dash of Trouble

Leonora "Leo" Logroño discovers that the women in her family are brujas - Mexican witches who practice magic through baking. When she sees her mother and sisters secretly using spells in their family bakery, Leo becomes determined to learn magic herself, despite being told she's too young. Leo attempts to master bruja magic on her own by sneaking spells from her family's recipe book and practicing in secret. Her efforts to help friends and family through magic lead to complications at school and in the bakery, forcing her to navigate increasingly complex situations. The story follows Leo's journey of self-discovery as she learns about her heritage and what it means to be part of a bruja family. Set against the backdrop of her close-knit Mexican-American community in Texas, the novel incorporates cultural traditions and family dynamics. This middle-grade novel explores themes of growing up, family bonds, and finding one's place while balancing tradition with individual identity. Through Leo's experiences, the story examines the responsibilities that come with both power and family traditions.

Readers describe this middle-grade novel as a warm family story that blends Mexican culture, magic, and baking. Many highlight the authentic representation of Mexican-American family dynamics and traditions. Liked: - Strong sister relationships and family bonds - Integration of Spanish words and phrases - Detailed descriptions of Mexican baking - Age-appropriate magical elements - Protagonist Leo's determination and growth Disliked: - Some found the pacing slow in the first third - A few readers wanted more depth to the magic system - Several mentioned Leo's rule-breaking could set a poor example Ratings: Goodreads: 4.1/5 (2,800+ ratings) Amazon: 4.7/5 (280+ ratings) Reader comments: "Perfect blend of family, food, and magic" - Goodreads reviewer "The Spanish terminology felt natural and wasn't over-explained" - Amazon reviewer "Would have liked more consequences for Leo's actions" - School Library Journal reader review

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🌟 Author Anna Meriano grew up in Houston, Texas, the same city where the story is set, and draws from her Mexican-American heritage to create authentic cultural details. 🍪 The book features real Mexican recipes that readers can try at home, including traditional Mexican wedding cookies called polvorones. ✨ The story weaves together actual Mexican folk magic traditions with fictional elements, particularly focusing on brujería (witchcraft) practiced through baking. 🎂 Love Sugar Magic is a five-book series, with A Dash of Trouble being the first installment, following young Leo Logroño as she discovers her family's magical heritage. 🌺 The book's bakery, Amor y Azúcar, was partially inspired by the author's memories of El Bolillo, a famous Mexican bakery in Houston.