This book is creepy, eerie and terrifying- great for the Halloween season. If you want a sneak peak into the novel, check out my Pinterest page for pictures of 1950’s vintage fashion, the setting of El Triunfo and more. Link above.

by Silvia Moreno-Garcia
narrated by: Frankie Corzo
El Triunfo, Mexico, present time, Gothic Horror

Book Review

Young, beautiful debutante Noemi is a sophisticated 22 year old in 1950’s Mexico City. She does what she wants skimming the edge of society’s expectations. At the bequest of her father, Noemi travels to the countryside in response to a letter from her newlywed cousin, Catalina, begging for help in disordered ramblings. There she finds an entire estate imported from England and dropped into the Mexican countryside- servants, doctors and all. Ill kept and melancholic, the estate is large, silent and candle lit. Like the home, Mexican Gothic is refreshingly true to the dark gothic tone.

The book was Eerie. Dark. Disgusting. Repulsively weird but utterly fascinating. There was instant intrigue with deep believable characters rushing the story along.

I did find Moreno-Garcia to be repetitive in some descriptive ways. There were so many snakes, mushrooms and bees.

Overall, the book was entertaining and perfect for a Halloween thrill.

Nerdy Fact

Hulu will be featuring a drama series based on Mexican Gothic.

Audiobook Review

Frankie Corzo gave a lulling audio performance. This was my first time listening to this narrator. Her reading was airy, breezy and yet magnified the heart racing moments. Corzo’s voice fit the protagonist Noemi perfectly and yet was distinct enough to differentiate between the characters. The accents were on point but not overwhelming. The pace could have been slightly faster, but she was lively and kept me captivated.

RECIPE

Gourmet Mushroom Quesadilla

Warm Black Bean & Chickpea Dip

Warm Black Bean and Chickpea Dip recipe inspired by the book Mexican Gothic — Like the book, it’s dark and moody with a surprise kick of heat at the end.

If you are planning on reading or have recently read this book, I recommend checking out my Mexican Gothic Pinterest board- especially the vintage fashion. It’s stunning!

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The Nerdy Gourmet

Hi friends!! I’m Jenni, The Nerdy Gourmet. I love books and I love food. Combining the two with a splash of travel has become my passion. I am a self taught cook/baker and I believe that everyone can cook from scratch! I’m here with recipes and Nerdy Tips to help along the way.
I review books, mostly ‘read’ via audio, and I create recipes inspired by the story lines. Sometimes if I am deeply moved by a story, I will travel and try my best to experience the book- and bring you along via my blog! I provide all the photographs and content for the Nerdy Gourmet (unless otherwise noted).

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