Picture a Mexican-American storyteller weaving spine-chilling tales that pulse with cultural vibrancy—meet V. Castro! A two-time Bram Stoker Award-nominated author, Castro has carved a unique niche in horror, fantasy, and science fiction, blending Mexican folklore with supernatural thrills. From her haunting novel The Haunting of Alejandra to her gripping Aliens: Vasquez, she’s redefining genre fiction with Latinx narratives that resonate worldwide.
Born in San Antonio, Texas, and now calling the UK home, Castro’s journey as a full-time mother and writer is as compelling as her stories. Her work doesn’t just scare—it celebrates heritage, challenges stereotypes, and amplifies marginalized voices, making her a trailblazer in modern literature.
The Making of V. Castro
Violet Castro grew up in San Antonio, immersed in the eerie allure of Mexican folklore and Texas urban legends. As a child, she penned ghost stories, her imagination sparked by tales of La Llorona and Chupacabra. After earning a Bachelor of Science in Political Science and History from Drexel University, personal challenges and a vivid dream in 2016 ignited her writing career. What began as a therapeutic outlet became a mission to craft authentic Latinx stories, filling a gap in horror and sci-fi where diverse voices were scarce.
V. Castro’s Unforgettable Stories
Castro’s bibliography is a thrilling tapestry of horror, erotic horror, and science fiction, each work infused with her Mexican-American heritage. The Haunting of Alejandra (2023) reimagines La Llorona, following a mother unraveling her family’s dark secrets to confront a spectral force. Aliens: Vasquez (2022) expands the Aliens universe, delving into PFC Jenette Vasquez’s origins with a Chicana lens, earning praise for its authenticity. Goddess of Filth (2021) blends Aztec mythology with possession horror, showcasing Castro’s knack for cultural depth. Meanwhile, The Queen of the Cicadas (2021) merges urban legend with visceral storytelling, lauded as “hideously beautiful” by critics.
Her style is raw, atmospheric, and unapologetic, weaving pre-Columbian myths, social commentary, and complex Latina characters. Castro plays with stereotypes, reclaiming narratives to portray Latinx figures as fully human—heroes, not just victims. Her stories pulse with emotion, drawing readers into worlds where the supernatural mirrors real-world struggles.
Why V. Castro Matters
V. Castro’s impact transcends her page-turning plots. As a Latinx literary advocate and co-founder of Fright Girl Summer, she champions marginalized voices, pushing for inclusivity in a genre long dominated by white male perspectives. Her work inspires a new wave of writers, proving that horror can be a vessel for cultural identity and empowerment. By centering Latinx experiences, Castro is reshaping gothic and speculative fiction, earning her a devoted following and critical acclaim.
In a world craving diverse stories, Castro’s voice is a beacon, illuminating the power of heritage through the lens of the uncanny. Her influence is only growing, with upcoming works like Immortal Pleasures set to captivate readers further.
About V. Castro
- Born: San Antonio, Texas, to Mexican-American parents
- Key Works: The Haunting of Alejandra, Aliens: Vasquez, Goddess of Filth, The Queen of the Cicadas
- Awards: Two-time Bram Stoker Award nominee
- Current Home: United Kingdom, with frequent US visits
Ready for a scare that’s rich with culture? Snag The Haunting of Alejandra and dive into V. Castro’s thrilling world of horror!