Silvia Moreno-Garcia’s 2016 urban fantasy novel, Certain Dark Things, blends Aztec mythology with a noir-infused vampire narrative set in Mexico City. The story follows Atl, a young woman vampire seeking passage to South America, and Domingo, a street kid drawn into her world. Their paths intertwine against a backdrop of dangerous vampire politics and the gritty realities of urban life.
The novel’s significance lies in its unique cultural perspective, offering a fresh take on vampire lore by incorporating indigenous mythology and a non-European setting. Its exploration of themes such as social inequality, survival, and the search for belonging resonates with readers. Furthermore, the work contributes to a broader movement in speculative fiction toward greater diversity and representation. Its critical acclaim and popularity helped solidify Moreno-Garcia’s position as a prominent voice in the genre.
