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448
Novel • Fiction
Yucatán Peninsula • 19th century
2022
Del Rey
Adult
16+ years
The Daughter of Doctor Moreau by Silvia Moreno-Garcia is set in 19th-century Mexico and follows Carlota, the daughter of Doctor Moreau, who lives in isolation on a remote estate where her father conducts experiments creating human-animal hybrids. The novel intertwines themes of desire, colonialism, and power as Carlota navigates complex relationships, including with her father's assistant Montgomery and Eduardo, the son of a wealthy patron. This book contains references to alcohol addiction, physical violence, and suicidal ideation.
Mysterious
Dark
Contemplative
Emotional
Melancholic
36,571 ratings
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The Daughter of Doctor Moreau by Silvia Moreno-Garcia offers an intriguing, gothic reimagining filled with lush prose and vibrant settings. Critics appreciate the character depth and thematic resonance, though some find the pacing uneven. While the novel's atmosphere captivates, its narrative structure occasionally lacks cohesion. Overall, it's a compelling read.
Readers who savor gothic fiction with lush, atmospheric settings will be engrossed by Silvia Moreno-Garcia’s The Daughter of Doctor Moreau. Comparable to H.G. Wells’s The Island of Doctor Moreau and Mary Shelley's Frankenstein, this novel appeals to fans of historical reimaginings laced with elements of science fiction and suspense.
36,571 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Montgomery Laughton
The other protagonist, Montgomery Laughton provides a worldly counterpoint to Carlota's innocence. He has a traumatic past and develops a complicated relationship with Carlota while staying at Yaxaktun.
Doctor Moreau
A morally ambiguous character and father of Carlota, Doctor Moreau is an innovative scientist whose experiments with hybrids are central to the plot. He is both protective and controlling in his relationship with Carlota.
Eduardo Lizalde
The son of a wealthy planter, Eduardo Lizalde is a handsome young man who becomes infatuated with Carlota. His arrogance and entitlement often drive his actions and perspective towards Carlota.
Hernando Lizalde
A powerful Mexican landowner, Hernando Lizalde owns the Yaxaktun estate and views the hybrids as potential labor resources. His pragmatic and ruthless pursuit of wealth and power underscores his antagonistic role in the story.
448
Novel • Fiction
Yucatán Peninsula • 19th century
2022
Del Rey
Adult
16+ years
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