Silvia Moreno-Garcia’s latest novel is inspired by H.G. Wells’s The Island of Doctor Moreau, a 1986 science-fiction classic about a scientist on a remote island who turns animals into strange, beastly almost-humans. In this reimagined iteration—which takes place in Mexico—the mad scientist’s daughter, Carlota, begins asking questions and uncovering the truth about his creations. The deeply atmospheric novel blends horror, science fiction, and historical events, successfully whisking readers to the Yucatan peninsula. —Angela Haupt