Book Review: Mexican Gothic

By Silvia Moreno-Garcia 

4 Stars 

Mexican Gothic by Silvia Moreno-Garcia is a captivating and spooky novel that takes you on a journey into a world of secrets and eerie vibes. This book, set in 1950s Mexico, adds a unique twist to the Gothic horror genre by mixing in Mexican culture, history, and folklore. The story is all about Noemí Taboada, a smart and fearless young woman who travels to a creepy old mansion called the High Place in the Mexican countryside. She's responding to a strange letter from her cousin, Catalina, who's in trouble. The High Place is a gloomy place filled with dark family secrets and a pretty scary guy named Virgil Doyle. 

Noemí is determined to uncover the truth about Catalina's condition and the house's spooky history. Moreno-Garcia's writing is beautiful. She paints vivid pictures with her words and creates a creepy atmosphere that keeps you hooked. The mansion itself becomes a character, with its creepy hallways and gloomy history. The author captures the tension and unease perfectly, making you want to keep reading. The characters are well-drawn and interesting. Noemí's transformation from a regular city girl to a brave investigator is a great part of the story. The other characters, like the mysterious Francis, the seemingly mean Florence, and the sick Catalina, all add layers to the plot. This book explores ideas about power, colonialism, and the role of women in society as Noemí deals with both supernatural and real-life horrors in the High Place. These ideas give the book depth and make it more than just a regular scary story.  

Mexican Gothic is a well-written and thrilling book that transports you to a world of mystery and spookiness. Silvia Moreno-Garcia's mix of gothic horror and Mexican culture makes it a must-read for horror fans. With its descriptive writing, interesting characters, and plot that keeps you guessing, this book will give you chills long after you finish it. 

Reviewed by Fahad 

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