The Hacienda by Isabel Cañas is a 2022 suspense novel that follows Beatriz Hernández Valenzuela, a Mestiza woman who marries Rodolfo Solórzano for security but discovers their new home, Hacienda San Isidro, is haunted. With the help of Padre Andrés, a priest hiding a secret, Beatriz battles supernatural forces, confronting her traumatic past and the house's vengeful spirit. The book contains depictions of sexual assault, sexual exploitation, racism, colorism, graphic violence, and gore.

Isabel Cañas's The Hacienda garners acclaim for its lush, gothic atmosphere and immersive historical setting. Critics praise the book's suspenseful plot and strong characterizations. However, some find the pacing uneven and the narrative occasionally predictable. Overall, it is seen as a compelling read that balances romance and supernatural intrigue effectively.

Lovers of gothic horror and historical fiction will find The Hacienda by Isabel Cañas captivating. Perfect for fans of Silvia Moreno-Garcia's Mexican Gothic and Shirley Jackson's The Haunting of Hill House, this novel blends supernatural elements with post-Revolutionary Mexican history in an eerie, atmospheric setting.

Mysterious / Dark / Unnerving / Suspenseful / Romantic

**Beatriz Hernández Valenzuela**  
The protagonist who navigates her family's legacy and personal struggles within the confines of the haunted San Isidro. Her journey is marked by her efforts to combat societal prejudices and secure a future for herself and her family.

**Padre Andrés**  
A complex character who struggles between his faith and cultural heritage, providing spiritual support to inhabitants of Apan while exploring his identity. He maintains a significant relationship with Beatriz, intertwining their paths.

**Juana**  
The antagonist who seeks to maintain control over the hacienda and her inheritance, often demonstrating power dynamics rooted in colonial authority. Her role in the story involves tension and conflict due to her actions toward other characters.

**Rodolfo Solórzano**  
Beatriz’s husband and the powerful patrón of San Isidro, characterized by his privileged background and contradictory progressive views. His behavior and ambitions impact those around him, particularly Beatriz and Andrés.

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