Play Book Tag discussion

This supernatural thriller is a masterfully blending of Gothic horror, historical fiction, and psychological suspense. This haunting novel is set in the silver mining region of Zacatecas, Mexico, in 1765. The titualar protagonist and her family hope to escape a plague by isolating themselves near their silver mine in the moutains of central Mexico. She is currently engaged to Carlos, a friend, but neither one is motivated by love to marry. Carlos seeks that family's wealth and power, while Alba seeks the freedom that marriage will offer. After Alba enters the silver mine responding to an infant's cry, her insuing behaviors are inexplicable. Only Elías, a cousin of Alba’s fiancé, seems to understand what is happening to her--she may be possessed by an ancient and malevolent spirit. Elías promises her that he will exorcise the occupying demon.

The story's narration is told by two alternating voices, Alba's and Elías's. The characters' motivation are realistic and the interplay between the two primary characters is what drives the plot. The setting's atmosphere is claustrophobic and tense, with the sense of dread building gradually as the story unfolds. I'm finding myself increasingly drawn to Latin horror novels, such as Silvia Moreno-Garcia. If you are drawn to this author, I would recommend Isabel Cañas. Both will make you keep the lights on late into the night.