The Stats

Title: The Daughter of Doctor Moreau

Author: Silvia Moreno-Garcia

Narrated By: Gisela Chípe

Publisher:  Del Rey (19 July 2022)

Time: 11 Hours 39 Mins

Genre: General Fiction (Adult), Horror, Mystery Thriller, Science Fiction

Trigger Warnings: Animal Cruelty, Violence, Body Horror, Substance Abuse, Psychological Abuse, Colonialism

Read if you like: Mexican Gothic, The Silence of the Girls

Rating: 4 out of 5 Stars

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duffRUNStough May 2023 TBR List

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The Review

Silvia Moreno-Garcia’s “The Daughter of Doctor Moreau” is a stunning blend of historical drama, science fiction, and gothic horror that transports readers to the lush jungles of nineteenth-century Mexico. Drawing inspiration from H.G. Well’s timeless classic, Moreno-Garcia weaves a narrative that is both faithful to the original and refreshingly innovative.

Set against the backdrop of the Yucatán peninsula during a time of conflict and upheaval, the story follows Carlota Moreau, the only daughter of the enigmatic Doctor Moreau. Raised in isolation on a remote estate, Carlota grapples with her father’s dark secrets and the mysteries surrounding his scientific experiments. When the arrival of unexpected guests disrupts the fragile balance of their world, Carlota’s quest for truth leads her down a path of discovery and danger.

Moreno-Garcia’s prose is richly atmospheric, evoking the sights, sounds, and smells of the Mexican jungle with vivid detail. The characters leap off the page, each one layered and complex, from the melancholic overseer Montgomery Laughton to the charismatic Eduardo Lizalde. Through dual narrators Carlota and Montgomery, the author explores themes of identity, morality, and the blurred lines between humanity and monstrosity.

What sets “The Daughter of Doctor Moreau” apart is its seamless integration of historical events and social commentary. Against the backdrop of the caste war in the Yucatán, Moreno-Garcia examines issues of colonization, class, and exploitation, adding depth and resonance to the narrative. The novel’s exploration of power dynamics and the consequences of scientific hubris feels both timely and timeless.

With its gripping plot, compelling characters, and thought-provoking themes, “The Daughter of Doctor Moreau” is a must-read for fans of speculative fiction and historical drama alike. Silvia Moreno-Garcia once again proves herself to be a master storyteller, breathing new life into a classic tale while delivering a wholly original and unforgettable reading experience. Highly recommended.

Short Review (AKA TLDR)

“The Daughter of Doctor Moreau” by Silvia Moreno-Garcia is a captivating blend of historical drama, science fiction, and gothic horror. Set in nineteenth-century Mexico, the story revolves around Carlota Moreau, the daughter of the mysterious Doctor Moreau. The narrative unfolds amidst conflict in the Yucatán peninsula, delving into dark family secrets and scientific experiments. Through richly atmospheric prose and compelling characters, the novel explores themes of identity, morality, and the blurred lines between humanity and monstrosity. It also seamlessly integrates historical events and social commentary, examining issues of colonization, class, and exploitation. With its gripping plot and thought-provoking themes, this book is a must-read for fans of speculative fiction and historical drama, showcasing Moreno-Garcia’s skill as a master storyteller.