10 Feb Book Review: Mexican Gothic by Silvia Moreno-Garcia

I recently picked up Mexican Gothic by Silvia Moreno-Garcia, intrigued by its promise of blending gothic horror with 1950s Mexican settings. As someone who loves character-driven stories with a touch of the supernatural, I was eager to dive into this one.

What’s it about?

Set in 1950s Mexico, the story follows Noemí Taboada, a glamorous and headstrong socialite from Mexico City. Her life of parties and suitors takes a sharp turn when she receives a distressing letter from her newlywed cousin, Catalina. Catalina’s letter is filled with ominous claims about her new husband, Virgil Doyle, and the eerie mansion they reside in, called High Place. Concerned for her cousin’s well-being, Noemí travels to the remote town of El Triunfo to investigate.

Upon arrival, Noemí is struck by the decaying grandeur of High Place and the peculiar behavior of its inhabitants. The Doyle family, of English descent, is led by the patriarch Howard Doyle, whose obsession with eugenics and purity is unsettling. Virgil, Catalina’s husband, is both alluring and menacing, while his sister, Florence, enforces the house’s strict rules with an iron fist. The only ally Noemí finds is Francis, Florence’s shy and gentle son, who hints at the dark secrets lurking within the mansion.

As days pass, Noemí experiences vivid nightmares and strange occurrences that blur the line between reality and hallucination. The house seems to exert a malevolent influence, and Catalina’s health deteriorates under mysterious circumstances. Determined to uncover the truth, Noemí delves into the family’s history and discovers a legacy of violence, madness, and a connection to a peculiar fungus that permeates the house.

The narrative weaves themes of colonialism, patriarchy, and the clash between modernity and tradition. Noemí’s journey is not just a battle against external horrors but also an exploration of her own identity and the societal expectations placed upon her.

What This Chick Thinks

Diving into Mexican Gothic, I was immediately captivated by Moreno-Garcia’s lush and evocative prose. The atmosphere is thick with tension, and the detailed descriptions make High Place come alive as a character in its own right. The blend of gothic elements with Mexican folklore offers a fresh take on the genre, setting it apart from traditional European gothic tales.

Noemí is a compelling protagonist—her wit, determination, and vulnerability make her journey engaging. Her evolution from a carefree socialite to a woman confronting unspeakable horrors is both believable and poignant. The supporting characters are well-crafted, each adding depth to the story’s intricate web.

However, some plot developments felt a bit predictable, and certain horror elements leaned more towards the grotesque than the suspenseful, which might not appeal to all readers. Despite these minor quibbles, the novel’s strengths far outweigh its shortcomings.

Final Thoughts

Mexican Gothic is a haunting and immersive read that masterfully blends horror with social commentary. Silvia Moreno-Garcia has crafted a story that lingers long after the final page, making it a must-read for fans of gothic fiction and those seeking something refreshingly different. I’d rate it an 8.5 out of 10 for its originality, atmosphere, and compelling characters.

Try it if you like:

• “Rebecca” by Daphne du Maurier
  A classic gothic tale of a young bride, a mysterious mansion, and the lingering presence of the past.
• “The Haunting of Hill House” by Shirley Jackson
  A chilling story of a group of people confronting the horrors within a haunted mansion.
• “The Silent Companions” by Laura Purcell
  A suspenseful gothic novel featuring a creepy estate and eerie wooden figures.