What began as a routine lunch in a bustling commercial complex ended in horror—and left a beloved voice in Brazil’s literary scene silenced.
The literary community is mourning the death of Taís Bruna de Castro, a beloved book influencer who was fatally stabbed at just 36 years old. The crime unfolded during lunchtime on Monday, June 2. Taís was dining in the food court of the “Beco Fino” commercial complex, where she also worked as a travel agent.
It was here, amid the clatter of trays and quiet conversations, that the attack took place. The suspect, Cláudio Elizeu, 40, worked as a cleaning assistant in the same complex. Surveillance footage captured the chilling moment he approached her in silence.
Witnesses say he stabbed her without warning. The forensic report later revealed she suffered more than 20 stab wounds. After the attack, Elizeu stormed an office in the building, causing further destruction by smashing furniture, windows, and doors. He later turned himself in and was taken into custody. Police classified the case as femicide.
According to the Military Police, Elizeu confessed that he was angry because Taís did not respond to his advances. He also expressed frustration over being reassigned to a different work location by management. Authorities confirmed that there was no relationship between the victim and the suspect.
Taís Bruna de Castro had built a modest yet loyal following online. Her Instagram page, “Leitora Fashion,” had nearly 8,000 followers who turned to her for book reviews and reading recommendations. Her passion for literature was evident in each post, reflecting her quiet dedication to sharing stories.
Now, the community she nurtured mourns a voice silenced too soon. Her death leaves a void both online and off, in the very place she lived and worked. In the days following the tragedy, Taís’ family took to her Instagram page to share a message of gratitude and grief.
They thanked followers for their support and honored the woman behind “Leitora Fashion.” “This week, our dear Taís Bruna, the owner of this account, left us in a very sad and almost unbelievable way,” the post began.
They recalled how much joy the page brought her. Sharing book reviews. Recommending new reads. Engaging with fellow readers. It wasn’t just content — it was her passion. “Leitora Fashion was one of her greatest joys,” the post read. “Talking about literature, recommending new books, and chatting with you all here made her days happier.”
The family described her as sweet and joyful, someone whose presence brightened every room. “Her smile, her sweetness, and all the joy she always spread will remain forever in our hearts.” They closed the message with a note of eternal love: “Taís, we will love you forever.”
Her followers responded with hundreds of comments—condolences, memories, and shared sorrow. A digital community, united in grief, now carries her memory forward.
