The Hacienda

Book Review: The Hacienda by Isabel Cañas

Rating: 4.5 stars out of 5

The Hacienda by Isabel Cañas is a debut supernatural suspense novel that combines the elements of Mexican Gothic and Rebecca. Set in the aftermath of the Mexican War of Independence, the story revolves around Beatriz, who, after the execution of her father and the destruction of her home, seeks security and stability in a marriage proposal from the enigmatic Don Rodolfo Solórzano. Determined to have a home again, Beatriz moves into Hacienda San Isidro, which turns out to be far from the sanctuary she had envisioned.

As Don Rodolfo returns to work in the capital, Beatriz finds herself plagued by visions and voices that invade her sleep. The weight of invisible eyes follows her every move, and strange occurrences within the hacienda intensify her sense of unease. Beatriz's fears are dismissed by Rodolfo's sister, Juana, but her refusal to enter the house at night raises further suspicion. The cook's use of copal incense and the presence of mysterious symbols add to the growing mystery surrounding the first Doña Solórzano. With no one willing to help her, Beatriz turns to Padre Andrés, a young priest with extraordinary abilities, who becomes her ally in battling the malevolent force haunting the hacienda.

One of the standout aspects of The Hacienda is the author's exceptional writing skills, particularly considering this is her debut novel. The prose is captivating and creates an eerie atmosphere that permeates throughout the narrative. Cañas skillfully balances the pacing, ensuring that the story maintains a steady momentum while building suspense and anticipation. The book is replete with gothic, creepy vibes that make it an ideal choice for the “spooky” season.

The plot of The Hacienda is richly woven with historical elements, adding depth and authenticity to the story. The blend of supernatural elements with the aftermath of the Mexican War of Independence provides a unique backdrop for the haunting experiences faced by Beatriz. The suspense is palpable, keeping readers engaged and eager to unravel the mysteries surrounding the hacienda.

The characters in The Hacienda are intriguing and well-developed. Beatriz and Padre Andrés serve as strong leads, each bringing their own strengths and vulnerabilities to the story. Beatriz's determination to uncover the truth and her resilience in the face of danger make her a compelling protagonist. Padre Andrés adds an additional layer of complexity with his forbidden attraction to Beatriz and his reliance on his witchcraft skills to combat the malevolent presence.

While The Hacienda is an enthralling read, it fell slightly short in its ending, which left me wanting more closure and resolution. This minor drawback prevented me from awarding it a full 5-star rating. However, despite this, The Hacienda remains a captivating and chilling novel, showcasing Isabel Cañas' talent as an author.

In conclusion, The Hacienda by Isabel Cañas is a gripping supernatural suspense novel that successfully merges historical elements with eerie atmospheres. With exceptional writing, well-paced storytelling, and intriguing characters, this debut novel proves Cañas' potential as a rising author in the genre. While the ending might leave readers craving more resolution, it does not diminish the overall quality of this captivating read. I highly recommend The Hacienda to those seeking a suspenseful and atmospheric tale that will keep them hooked until the very end.

ARC Via NetGalley