In the realm of literature, certain narratives possess an uncanny ability to intertwine and resonate with each other despite their distinct origins and settings. Silvia Moreno-Garcia's "Mexican Gothic" and T. Kingfisher's "What Moves the Dead" exemplify this phenomenon, offering readers a haunting journey into the depths of horror and the supernatural. But one thing that I'm seeing consistently is a recurring theme of mushrooms in horror. Mexican Gothic Vs What Moves The Dead had the most similarities but there were other books I could've included.
We'll start with the basics
Title: What Moves The Dead
Genre: Horror
Audience: Adult
Page Count: 176
Author: T. Kingfisher
ISBN: 978-1250830753
Publisher: Tor Nightfire
Series: Sworn Soldier Book 1 of 2
Title: Mexican Gothic
Genre: Horror
Audience: Adult
Page Count: 320
Author: Silvia Moreno-Garcia
ISBN: 978-0525620785
Publisher: Del Rey
The similarities
Atmospheric Settings
Both "Mexican Gothic" and "What Moves the Dead" transport readers to atmospheric settings that serve as integral components of their respective narratives. Moreno-Garcia's novel unfolds against the backdrop of a decaying mansion in rural Mexico, where dark secrets lurk within the walls and mist-shrouded forests conceal untold horrors. Similarly, Kingfisher's tale immerses readers in the eerie tranquility of a family hunting lodge, nestled deep within the cold and damp forests of Gallacia. In both cases, the settings become characters in their own right, evoking a sense of dread and foreboding that permeates every page.
Exploration of Ancestral Secrets
At the heart of both narratives lies the exploration of ancestral secrets that have been buried beneath layers of time and deception. In "Mexican Gothic," protagonist Noemí Taboada uncovers the dark history of the Doyle family, whose legacy is intertwined with colonialism, eugenics, and forbidden rituals. Similarly, in "What Moves the Dead," protagonist Alex Easton confronts the hidden truths of their family's past, delving into the mysteries of their ancestral home and the malevolent forces that dwell within. As they peel back the layers of deception, both characters are forced to confront the sins of their forebears and the lingering echoes of past atrocities.
Confrontation with Sinister Forces
Both novels feature protagonists who must confront sinister forces that threaten to consume them and their loved ones. In "Mexican Gothic," Noemí finds herself ensnared in the web of the Doyle family's dark secrets, facing off against malevolent spirits and eldritch horrors that seek to claim her soul. Similarly, in "What Moves the Dead," Alex grapples with the malevolent presence that haunts their family's hunting lodge, battling against forces beyond their comprehension. As they struggle to unravel the mysteries that surround them, both protagonists are forced to confront their deepest fears and darkest desires in a desperate bid for survival.
Role of Mushrooms
A key factor in both narratives is the presence of mushrooms, which serve as harbingers of doom and catalysts for supernatural occurrences. In "Mexican Gothic," Noemí encounters hallucinogenic mushrooms growing within the walls of the Doyle mansion, their presence signaling the sinister influence that permeates the estate. Similarly, in "What Moves the Dead," mushrooms play a central role in the supernatural events that unfold within the family hunting lodge, their sentient nature serving as a chilling reminder of the malevolent forces at work. Through their use of mushrooms, both Moreno-Garcia and Kingfisher weave a sense of eerie dread and otherworldly menace into their narratives, further immersing readers in the chilling atmosphere of their respective tales.
Mexican Gothic Vs What Moves The Dead
With the new consistent theme in horror I do hope a new idea comes around before this theme gets tired. THAT BEING SAID, I loved each one. Though having the same theme in every new book is not something I'm looking for, I am mainly looking for a good story. So as long as they continue to be good stories, for now, I will keep reading mushroom books.
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