I blogged about how just being part of the online bookish community comes with a fear of whether you’re reading books for the hype or for interest, and a few people pointed out that we can get really good book recommendations from the bookish community. Well, this is one book that I read because of all the amazing things I heard about it, and I was definitely not disappointed.

Set in the 1950s Mexico, Mexican Gothic follows socialite Noemi as she tries to save her cousin Catalina from her strange husband and his family. Noemi is a fascinating character, both a rich socialite who loves parties and a girl who chafes at the restrictions placed upon her. When her father makes her a deal – find out what’s going on with her cousin Catalin and she can go to University – she leaves her glittering life in Mexico City to head to a house in the Mexican Countryside named High Place.

Like the title says, this is a Gothic tale. Thankfully, I have read a few gothic novels (like The Mysteries of Uldopho by Ann Radcliffe), so I was somewhat prepared. The descriptions are lush, the atmosphere slowly gets creepier and creepier, and the story is extremely dramatic. I mean, the crazy dreams, the stifling house rules, and the sexist and racist head of the house? Definitely something that belongs in a Gothic novel.

As for characters, Noemi was a great protagonist. While she isn’t immune to the effects of the house, Noemi is strong enough to fight against them. I liked that her interest in going to University is established right at the start of the book, so later on, it’s believable that she can parry the patriach’s disgusting views on genetics. I hope her father let her study Anthropology like she wants to after the events in this book.

I completely see why this had so much hype. It’s an excellent book: extremely creepy with a strong female protagonist. I enjoyed this a lot and I look forward to reading Gods of Jade and Shadow, which is also by this author.

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