Set in nineteenth-century Mexico, this novel is both historical and science fiction.
Carlota Moreau is a teenager who lives on the Yucatan peninsula in 1871 with her father, ostensibly a doctor, and a collection of hybrid animals that he has scientifically created. The large and beautiful estate where they live their secluded lives is owned by a wealthy family, the Lizaldes. As patrons of Dr. Moreau, the family controls the coffers and are owners of the hybrids -- part human, part animal. Everything is perfect in Carlota's eyes until she meets the owner's handsome son, Eduardo Lizalde. As secrets long buried are revealed, simmering passion and rebellion create a sequence of events that change everything.
The premise is based loosely on the H.G. Wells novel published in 1896 but the setting has been altered which also affects the action and theme of this book. I loved the details the author presented about the home they've named Yaxaktun. The characters were an interesting lot, but I was hoping for more of the science fiction aspect about the hybrids. The narrative shifts in point of view between Carlota as she grows into womanhood and the overseer of the property, Montgomery Laughton. At times that made the story seem repetitive. There were times when local conflicts and other historically relevant events could have been included to flesh out the tale, but it all seemed a bit superficial. It seemed that the deep plunge into the whys and hows was just not made so we are left with only a vague understanding of Carlota. I just wanted more depth in characterization and more about the vivisection. In any event, it was a quick and interesting read.
Thank you to NetGalley and Del Ray for this e-book ARC to read and review.
This is a standalone and is not part of any series.
Genre - historical fiction (Mexico late 1800s), science fiction, romance
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