Cemetery Boys

In Cemetery Boys by Aiden Thomas, Yadriel, a determined young trans boy from a traditional Latinx family, is on a mission to prove himself as a true brujo. The journey begins when his family struggles to accept his gender identity, pushing Yadriel to take matters into his own hands. Partnered with his spirited cousin and best friend, Maritza, Yadriel performs an unauthorised ritual to summon the ghost of his murdered cousin in the hopes of setting him free and proving his worth.

However, things take an unexpected turn when the ritual instead summons Julian Diaz, the enigmatic bad boy of Yadriel's school. Far from being a compliant spirit, Julian is adamant about solving the mystery of his own untimely demise and tying up loose ends before he can rest in peace. Despite his initial reservations, Yadriel agrees to help Julian, realising that their goals are intertwined.

As the duo delves deeper into the puzzle of Julian's death, they encounter a series of thrilling and poignant experiences that challenge both their perceptions and their hearts. Along the way, Yadriel grapples with his burgeoning feelings for Julian, discovering that the real journey may be one of the soul and the heart, one where letting go becomes more difficult than he ever imagined.

Thomas weaves a compelling narrative filled with magic, mystery, and romance, exploring themes of identity, acceptance, and the binding power of family and love. Cemetery Boys is not just a ghost story, but a celebration of the beauty and complexity of human relationships, sprinkled with Latinx culture and rich folklore.

This heart-wrenching and pulse-pounding urban fantasy is a must-read for fans of supernatural tales, offering both diversity and a fresh perspective on traditional gender roles within a culturally immersive setting. Dive into Yadriel and Julian's world and discover a story that transcends life and death, blending magic with the everyday struggles of discovering one’s true self.