Books Like Mexican Gothic

This genre-blending gothic novel weaves together horror, history, and queer love across time. In 1902, three students at Brookhants School for Girls die under mysterious circumstances. Over a century later, a film adaptation of a book about the tragedy reignites interest—and perhaps the curse. The narrative jumps between past and present, unraveling secrets, obsession, and eerie deaths. With dark humor, metafictional flair, and lush prose, Plain Bad Heroines is a feminist, queer horror epic. It’s a celebration of storytelling, sapphic romance, and the sinister delights of the gothic tradition.

Daphne du Maurier’s Rebecca is a psychological gothic novel centered on a young, unnamed narrator who marries the wealthy widower Maxim de Winter. Upon moving to his estate, Manderley, she finds herself haunted by the memory of his charismatic first wife, Rebecca. As secrets unravel, themes of identity, obsession, and deception emerge. With suspenseful pacing and atmospheric writing, the novel explores the power dynamics in relationships and the lingering grip of the past. It remains a masterwork of romantic suspense.

Shirley Jackson's 'The Haunting of Hill House' is a timeless classic in the horror genre that delves into the psychological complexity of fear and the supernatural. The novel follows four characters who set out to investigate the eerie history of Hill House, only to encounter terror beyond their wildest imaginations. Through masterful storytelling, Jackson weaves a tale of suspense, mystery, and the blurred lines between reality and the paranormal. The intricate dynamics between the characters and the sinister atmosphere of Hill House create a chilling narrative that lingers long after the final page. A must-read for fans of psychological horror and Gothic fiction.

In Caitlin Starling's gothic horror novel, 'The Death of Jane Lawrence,' readers are drawn into a dark and atmospheric tale of love, secrets, and the supernatural. The story follows Jane Lawrence, a bride-to-be who becomes embroiled in a haunting mystery involving her enigmatic husband, his eerie estate, and the sinister forces that lurk within. As Jane unravels the chilling truths hidden within the walls of her new home, she must confront her deepest fears and make unimaginable choices. With its gripping plot, eerie ambiance, and strong character development, Starling weaves a captivating narrative that will keep readers on the edge of their seats.

In Laura Purcell's chilling gothic novel, 'The Silent Companions,' readers are transported to a remote estate filled with dark secrets and ominous occurrences. Set in the 19th century, the story revolves around Elsie, a recently widowed young woman who discovers a mysterious painted wooden figure called a 'silent companion.' As Elsie delves deeper into the history of the house, she unravels a haunting tale of madness, betrayal, and supernatural forces. Purcell masterfully weaves together elements of psychological suspense, ghostly apparitions, and historical intrigue, keeping readers on edge until the heart-stopping conclusion. 'The Silent Companions' is a gripping tale that will leave you enthralled and haunted long after the final page.

In Cherie Priest's 'The Family Plot,' readers are taken on a thrilling journey through the world of haunted houses and family secrets. The story follows Chuck Dutton and his team as they begin salvaging valuable fixtures from a dilapidated southern mansion, only to uncover dark supernatural forces lurking within its walls. As the crew members face increasingly sinister occurrences, they must confront their fears and unravel the mysteries of the house's past. Priest expertly weaves together elements of horror, suspense, and family drama in this gripping tale that keeps readers on the edge of their seats until the very end.

In Alexis Henderson's 'House of Hunger', readers are plunged into a dark and atmospheric world where magic and vengeance intertwine. The story follows protagonist Lacey, who confronts her deep-rooted demons in a desperate quest for power and revenge. Set in a haunting Southern Gothic setting, the book delves into themes of trauma, family, and the legacy of oppression. Henderson's vivid prose and intricate world-building create a gripping narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. 'House of Hunger' is a chilling tale that combines horror and fantasy to explore the depths of human darkness.

In 'Catherine House' by Elisabeth Thomas, readers are drawn into the mysterious and dark world of an elite university where students trade their freedom for intellectual pursuit. The novel delves into themes of power, isolation, ambition, and the sacrifices one makes in pursuit of knowledge. As Ines, the protagonist, uncovers the unsettling secrets of Catherine House, she becomes entangled in a web of intrigue and danger that challenges her perceptions of reality. Thomas weaves a captivating narrative that keeps readers on edge, questioning the price of excellence. 'Catherine House' is a haunting and atmospheric debut that lingers in the mind long after the final page.