What Moves the Dead

Fantasy retelling (with shades of sci-fi) of the classic gothic horror story The Fall of the House of Usher, it follows the ex-soldier Alex Easton who goes to visit the Usher siblings, Roderick and Madeline, after receiving a letter from Madeline claiming she's dying. 
I absolutely loved this short novel. The author did an amazing job creating a creepy and unsettling atmosphere typical of gothic horror. I loved how the author expanded the novel with a fantasy twist in the world building but also the scientific precision in describing the characteristics and effects of fungi as a disease. The themes of gender identity and sexism in society and medical practice were explored too, adding another layer to the story.  I loved the non-binary/trans protagonist and I can't wait to read more of their adventures.  The side characters were also compelling especially Argus, Alex's personal servant , and the mycologist Eugenia Potter. 
 Reading the author's note at the end, T. Kingfisher mentions ‘Mexican Gothic' by Silvia Moreno Garcia, another gothic horror tale that uses the same themes and narrative elements. I absolutely loved that book too, so if you're interested in this type of story I totally recommend reading both novels. 
An incredibly original and well written retelling of a classic gothic horror, I'm looking forward to read more books by T. Kingfisher.