I do not typically read YA but I am a huge horror fan. I enjoyed the use of the specific cultural elements. The romance was the least interesting part of the book. Thank you to MetGalley and the publisher for a copy.

A unique perspective on Haitian culture and zonbi(zombi) folklore told in this immersive young adult novel.
You can feel the seething anger and disparity of Brielle while she struggles to deal with being surrounded by the upper-class white elite and her mother's healthcare shortcomings.

A great read! 4 out of 5 🌟

It’s a breath of fresh air to read something so unique and immersive. Unfortunately (no, not actually), The Summer I Ate the Rich also evokes frustration, irritation, anger, and disappointment—feelings I found myself sharing with Brielle and her mother. It makes cheering them on and celebrating their wins that much more powerful.

Brielle and her mother, Valentine, exist in different worlds from each other. Where Valentine divides her heart between the United States and Haiti, Brielle divides hers between pleasing her mom and being true to herself. This duo provides such a dynamic view into power imbalances, healthcare’s shortcomings, and the detached lives of the elite. But the all-powerful, unfeeling rich in this book don’t stand a chance against Brielle’s desire for revenge.

On top of all that intrigue and emotion, we’re also gifted with a glimpse into Haitian culture and zonbi (zombie) lore. Maika and Maritza combine truth with fiction in a way that makes me wonder how many zombies may be walking amongst us…

A fascinating horror story about wealth, generational trauma, and medical disparity. Plus, an ending that I never expected! Haitian American Brielle dreams of being a chef, but her mother stopped believed in dreams long ago. She came to this country hoping for a better life for Brielle, but the death of her second husband, low-paying jobs and debilitating chronic pain mean the family can't make ends meet. Plus, there's the fact that Brielle's a zonbi (zombie) and her mother fears what that means for her future. The Summer I Ate the Rich is a horror story where Brielle's hopes are constantly dashed, but mysteriously replaced with opportunity. As Brielle navigates her summer, she'll lean into her powers to get what she needs and more.