In Silvia Moreno-Garcia’s Mexican Gothic, Noemí Taboada, a socialite from 1950s Mexico City, travels to El Triunfo to save her cousin Catalina from the Doyle family, English silver barons linked to a sentient fungus that grants immortality to their patriarch, Howard Doyle. Set in a haunted, declining estate, Noemí encounters resistance from the family while uncovering their dark history and supernatural secrets. The book addresses themes of sexual violence.

Silvia Moreno-Garcia's Mexican Gothic is praised for its atmospheric setting, compelling protagonist, and proficient blend of Gothic horror and Mexican culture. Critics appreciate its rich descriptive language and haunting storyline. However, some reviews highlight a slow plot development and predictability in certain twists. Overall, it offers a fresh take on classic horror.

Ideal for fans of psychological horror and gothic fiction, readers who enjoyed Rebecca by Daphne du Maurier or The Haunting of Hill House by Shirley Jackson will appreciate Silvia Moreno-Garcia's Mexican Gothic. Its eerie atmosphere, compelling protagonist, and rich historical context cater to those who love a blend of suspense and supernatural elements.

Mysterious / Dark / Unnerving / Suspenseful / Melancholic

**Noemí Taboada**  
The protagonist of the novel, _Mexican Gothic_, Noemí starts as a discontent socialite eager to prove her capabilities and pursue an academic degree. She relies on her socialite skills but faces life-threatening challenges at High Place that lead to a significant personal transformation.

**Francis Doyle**  
Francis Doyle is the pale, ineffectual son of Florence, resigned to his life in the Doyle house. He gradually learns to make decisions and rebel against the rigid structure at High Place, influenced by Noemí.

**Howard Doyle**  
Howard Doyle is an ancient figure over 300 years old, trapped in an 80-year-old body. He embodies racism, lechery, and sexism and represents the worst aspects of colonialism and imperialism.

**Virgil Doyle**  
Virgil is the predatory heir of the Doyle family. Handsome and forceful, he represents the oppressive elements in the novel. His outward charm masks his self-interest and cruelty.

**Catalina**  
Catalina is Noemí’s cousin, initially portrayed as disturbed and depressed. Gradually, she takes an active role in resisting the Doyles’ control, ultimately subverting traditional gender roles.

**Marta Duval**  
A healer in Mexican folk medicine, Marta provides Noemí with tools to counter the Doyles' influence. She serves as a key figure in helping Noemí understand and resist the gloom.

**Ruth Doyle**  
Ruth, a spectral figure in the novel, refuses to comply with the oppressive Doyle practices and helps Noemí escape. Her actions highlight a refusal to be complicit in family atrocities.

**Florence Doyle**  
Florence is Howard’s niece and Francis’s mother. Grim and disapproving, she embraces the Doyle family’s racist and sexist beliefs, prioritizing the family's legacy over her immediate family.

- Silvia Moreno-Garcia, the author of Mexican Gothic, has stated in interviews that she was inspired by gothic novels and horror movies when creating the eerie atmosphere and chilling setting of the story.
- Mexican Gothic won the 2020 Bram Stoker Award for Best Novel, showcasing its impact and popularity within the horror and gothic fiction genres.
- The novel is set in the 1950s and features a mix of gothic elements and Mexican culture, blending traditional horror with rich cultural settings and themes.

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