Happy Latinx/Hispanic Heritage Month! Every year from September 15th through October 15th, we celebrate the cultures and histories of those whose ancestors came from Mexico, Spain, the Caribbean, and Central & South America. Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Nicaragua, & Honduras celebrate their independence on September 15th which marks the start of the month-long celebration.
Being able to celebrate my heritage means so much to me. Growing up, I never had the confidence to fully embrace my Mexican culture. I grew up in a predominantly white community so yes, I was considered the Mexican friend but I couldn’t speak Spanish so I always felt like a fraud. As an adult though, I’ve been learning so much about who I am, where I come from, and really owning my roots. It feels great. Without further ado, here are some of my favorite works of dark fiction by Latinx authors.
Latinx Dark Fictions Authors You Don't Want to Miss
I’m going to start by sharing a few authors that I love so much I couldn’t narrow down which books to feature so you’re getting more than one book recommendation from each.
Mariana Enriquez
Mariana Enriquez is an author and journalist from Argentina. Enriquez has written many short story collections as well as novels but only a few have been translated into English. If you enjoy stories that are disturbing and thought-provoking, you do not want to skip out on Enriquez.
The Dangers of Smoking in Bed was my introduction to Enriquez’ work and I was blown away. Her writing is so haunting and elegant, I honestly loved everything about it.
Things We Lost in the Fire is a collection that had been on my radar for a very long time and I cannot believe it took me so long to pick this book up! I have regrets! These stories will satisfy the horror-hungry hearts.
Our Share of Night is Enriquez's first FULL novel being translated to English. It will be released in February in the United States. It’s coming in at almost 700 pages!! If you’re a fan of her short works, you’ll understand how exciting this is.
V. Castro
V. Castro is a Mexican American author who is originally from Texas and now resides in the United Kingdom. Castro is literally changing the Latinx GAME. I swear every time I turn around, she’s got another new exciting announcement. SLAY!
Goddess of Filth made me fall head over heels in love with Castro’s writing. Goddess of Filth combines all of my favorite things: friendship, brujas, and possession and turns them into the most wonderful little book.
Queen of the Cicadas is such a haunting and atmospheric read that combines a Mexican urban legend with disturbing horror elements. It’s important, it’s relevant and it’s SCARY.
Out of Aztlan is a NEW short story collection coming out in December from Creature Publishing. I seriously cannot wait.
Silvia Moreno-Garcia
Silvia Moreno-Garcia a Mexican author who resides in Canada. SMG writes in so many different genres, you can’t put her writing in a genre box. Her writing is so beautiful though that it doesn’t really matter to me what “genre” one of her books is, I’ll read it.
Mexican Gothic—the first book I read by SMG and an instant favorite. I mean read this quote: “A woman who is not liked is a bitch, and a bitch can hardly do anything: all avenues are closed to her.” RELATABLE. A haunted house with gothic vibes set in Mexico? Instabuy.
Certain Dark Things is a neo-noir take on the vampire trope. “Vampires, humans, cops, and criminals collide in the dark streets of Mexico City.” I’m sure nothing can go wrong.
Specific Recommendations of Dark Fiction by Latinx Authors
Tender Is the Flesh
Tender is the Flesh by Agustina Bazterrica is my favorite book to recommend. Hearing people’s reactions is literally my favorite thing ever. I mean it’s about a man who works in a processing plant... a human processing plant…
The Hacienda
The Hacienda by Isabel Cañas is definitely going to be in my top 10 reads of 2022. When I say I’m OBSESSED. It’s a little bit Mexican Gothic, a little bit Haunting of Hill House, and all set in the aftermath of the Mexican War. Perrrrfection.
Crime Scene
Crime Scene by Cynthia Pelayo is a collection of poetry but not just ANY collection of poetry. Each poem builds upon the poem before it and we piece together the case of a missing girl. Ugh, it’s just brilliant.
Itza
Itza by Rios de la Luz is a magical and witchy little book that is so underrated. It’s a shame! If you love books that examine grief and family dynamics infused with magic and witchiness, you must read this.
Fever Dream
Fever Dream by Samantha Schweblin is exactly what the title suggests—a freaking fever dream. Most of the time I had no idea what was happening but I loved every second of it.
COMING SOON! A few soon-to-be-released books by Latinx authors that should be on your radar:
Loteria
Coming January 2023.
Piñata
Coming March 14, 2023.
The Haunting of Alejandra
Coming April 18, 2023.
