One week from today we’ll be binge-reading our very own copy of Paola Santiago and the River of Tears! This spooky thriller based on the legend of La Llorona goes on sale August 4, and the more we learn about the characters, the more excited we get.

Case in point: Ondina. As we’re sure you’ve gathered from the illustration, there’s something eerie about this girl, from her green glowing eyes to her vintage gothic dress. And while she may look antique, or at least a little tired, she’s also feisty and fierce! She challenges Paola to take brave action with an unimpressed sarcasm that sounds almost too much like Paola’s subconscious. But Ondina is no voice in our hero’s head. She’s the real snarky deal!

Meet Ondina!