The book powerfully explores real-life horrors such as cartel violence, systemic racism, and childhood illness, delivering a gripping emotional impact beyond its supernatural elements.
Kate finds 'The Devil Takes You Home' to be a deeply affecting narrative that goes beyond supernatural horror to focus on very real and devastating issues like cartel violence, systemic racism, and the trauma of a child’s illness. She was particularly moved by the depiction of grief and rage experienced by the protagonist after the loss of his daughter, noting how these elements added a meaningful emotional depth that made some parts hard to read but ultimately purposeful. The story’s portrayal of violence and despair is not gratuitous but feels essential to the novel’s themes and character development. Kate also appreciates how the author balances the supernatural with harsh reality, using the latter to ground the story’s emotional resonance. The novel’s nightmarish encounters and the protagonist’s transformation leave a lasting impression, making it a compelling read for fans of gritty, intense narratives that do not shy away from difficult subject matter.
Quick quotes
Iglesias doesn’t put too much focus on the magical or otherworldly terrors, but he lasers in on the very real terrors of cartel violence, systemic racism, torture, and childhood illness and brings out so much dread and devastation.
I found myself having to put the book down after a particularly devastating moment, but it always feels like there is a purpose and meaning behind the most devastating beats.
Iglesias also knows how to capture the rage and trauma and grief that Mario is feeling after his family is ripped asunder by his daughter Anita’s illness.