For her entire life, Cecilia Pino has been raised around the mysterious world of Santeria. The Cuban-American girl, affectionately known as Sky, has faced far too many troubles for someone her age-and the struggles aren't just physical, but spiritual as well. As the granddaughter of the most recognized Santera, in Havana, Cuba, it is no wonder that spirits are always going out of their way to communicate with her-although she considers it less of a blessing and more of a curse. Sky, is known for her naturally free-spirited and mischievous personality, but her home situation has left her broken. Her mother Lucia is controlling, taking out her frustrations on her through violent beatings well into her adolescence. But now, Lucia is married to a police officer named Andre, and the abuse stops. Still, Sky is haunted by the events of her earlier childhood, and as a teenager realizes she is harboring an undeniable feeling of resentment toward both her mother and new stepfather. In order to cope, she spends time wandering some of the rougher neighborhoods of Boston against the advice of Andre, and in doing so, finds trouble. She makes a close-knit group of friends, and even comes across some who share the same traditions she has. After discovering the gift of dreams and becoming a 911 operator, Sky is finally in a place where she can say things are turning around. But a family scandal suddenly threatens to shatter the very foundation that took years to build, and a disappearance leaves her abandoned and hurt. Alone, she finds herself without any real sense of direction-until she gets wind of some information that just might lead her where she needs to go. But how much is she willing to risk fixing something that may not ever have been completely right in the first place? Enthralling and drama-filled from beginning to end, Broken Voodoo Doll combines the supernatural and physical realms for a unique tale involving struggle, redemption, fate, and the power of dreams. It is one injured girl's journey through a childhood fraught with abuse into eventual self-discovery, and her effort to pick up the pieces along the way. Peppered with glimpses of authentic Santeria practice, this dark and unusual piece of fiction is a must read for anyone who has faced their own difficulties in life, those looking for a captivating thriller, or anyone who is enchanted by the fascinating pursuits of real-life magical practices.
About the Author: I am the author of the dark suspense novel Broken Voodoo Doll, One Sky One Soul, as well as its upcoming sequel, A Rayless Mind. I prefer my stories to stand on their own, leaving my personal history unknown.