H.G. Wells’ classic sci-fi novel, THE ISLAND OF DOCTOR MOREAU, took on the ethical problems of experimentation, vivisection in particular. It has inspired filmmakers and writers for over a hundred years to also consider scientific responsibility and morality. Silvia Moreno-Garcia is the latest author to take Wells’ characters to new places in her book, THE DAUGHTER OF DOCTOR MOREAU.

Carlota Moreau is the only child of Dr. Moreau, who has settled in Mexico to conduct his work. He is involved in the creation of human-animal hybrids, ostensibly to build a workforce for his patron, Hernando Lizalde. Due to the nature of his work, Dr. Moreau and Carlota are fairly isolated in the dense jungle of the Yucatán and far from the society of the capital. Yaxaktun, the former sugar mill where they live, is owned by Lizalde. Ramona tends to the hacienda, but otherwise Carlota grows up there with just her father and the hybrids he has created.

"With her well-crafted gothic style, Moreno-Garcia draws readers into the lush setting and asks them to think carefully about the morality of experimentation, the damage wrought by colonization, and the unpredictable fancies of the heart."

Carlota is particularly close to Lupe and Cachito, with whom she has shared adventures most of her life. She is a lovely, dreamy girl, haphazardly educated by her stern, narcissistic and brilliant father. She’s 14 when Lizalde brings a new mayordomo to Yaxaktun to help keep the place running. Montgomery Laughton is an Englishman but has lived abroad for many years. From Cuba to Belize and now Mexico, Montgomery has tried to outrun heartache with no success, instead drowning his sorrows in alcohol. Working for Lizalde helps him pay off his debts, and life with the Moreau duo suits his solitary and sorrowful habits. Carlota, her father, Ramona, the hybrids and Montgomery all live together in this mostly secret world for six years before things start falling apart.

Lupe and some of the other hybrids, many of whom are aging rapidly and in pain, have begun to dream about leaving. They whisper among themselves about joining the legendary Maya rebel, Juan Cumux, who is rumored to travel close to Yaxaktun. Lupe wants Carlota to join her, but Carlota cannot imagine life elsewhere. This all would be enough of a challenge, but then come visitors who test Carlota’s loyalties and are sure to destroy her peace.

Carlota and Eduardo fall in love at first sight. However, their dreams for the future are very different, and neither will easily come to fruition. As they court each other, Montgomery begins to feel a surprising attraction to Carlota and a growing protectiveness over her. Tensions between him, the Lizaldes and Dr. Moreau grow into conflict fueled by money, love, and a desire for power and control.

With her well-crafted gothic style, Moreno-Garcia draws readers into the lush setting and asks them to think carefully about the morality of experimentation, the damage wrought by colonization, and the unpredictable fancies of the heart. From the European racism toward the Maya people, to the horrific work of Dr. Moreau, and the ways in which women are vulnerable to misogyny and violence, the author infuses her romantic vision with deadly serious themes and topics. The result is an entertaining and thoughtful tale --- a page-turner that is both creepy and fanciful, and always smart.