I was initially drawn to The Wish Collector because it’s set in New Orleans, where I live, and weaves in historical and unique aspects of the city. A local legend of cursed souls from an 1800s love story turned tragedy brings two strangers together. Clara is intrigued by the local legend and visits the location said to be haunted by a scorned lover to make a wish. She meets Jonah, the wish collector and monster behind the wall, and finds him trapped in his guilt, fear, and self imposed prison. This story is a sweet reminder that we are our own worst critics and we should all try to see ourselves through the eyes of those that love us most.