The Hacienda: a haunting thriller and supernatural mystery

The Hacienda by Isabel Cañas is a supernatural suspense story set in the aftermath of the Mexican War of Independence (1810-1821) in a remote village, a sinister haunted house and a young woman left to defend herself. After her father is executed and her home destroyed, Beatriz is left at the mercy of family. When Don Rodolfo Solórzano proposes, she immediately says yes. The promise of a home and security for her and her mother is too good to pass up despite the circulating rumors about his first wife’s death. However, Hacienda San Isidro is not the sanctuary she was hoping for and while Rodolfo works in the capital, she is plagued with visions and voices at night. Despite her concerns being brushed aside, she knows something is wrong with the house. Beatriz turns to a young priest, Padre Andres, who is familiar with the house and its history, for help. Together, can they fight the malevolent spirit and return peace to Hacienda San Isidro? 

Billed as Mexican Gothic (2020) meets Rebecca (1938), which I have not yet read either, The Hacienda is a haunting thriller which hooks the readers on a journey of a supernatural mystery that leaves them gasping for breath! As I read, I was reminded of Shirley Jackson’s The House on Haunted Hill (1959), as the house is a character in itself. After reading the author’s notes, I can see why I got that vibe as Ms.Cañas was paying homage to Shirley Jackson who was known for her horror and mystery stories. While I am not usually a fan of horror stories, The Hacienda is a mix of gothic horror with historical commentary of what people will be to gain and keep power. It is a story of resilience and resistance. I cheered for Beatriz and Andres as they battled this evil spirit and turned each page with anticipation. Ms. Cañas created such a mood and atmosphere that it was hard to put down! I highly recommend The Hacienda. 

The Hacienda is hardcover, eBook, and audiobook