Books matching: hauntings and curses
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- #1
Save:This is classic Kristen Ashley: heart, heat, slow-burn feels and a dash of ghostly intrigue. If you’re up for a swoony, emotional romance with a gothic mansion backdrop, add this to your list!
"Sommersgate House" in the series "Ghosts and Reincarnation" by Kristen Ashley follows the story of Julia Fairfax and Douglas Ashton, who are brought together to care for three children after a tragic accident. Julia, having moved from the US to the UK to fulfill her brother's final wishes, finds herself sharing custody of the children with the cold and emotionally distant Douglas. As they navigate their shared responsibilities and the paranormal elements of the house, a slow-burning romance develops between Julia and Douglas, leading to a heartwarming tale of love and family. is praised for its blend of romance, tragedy, and supernatural elements, creating a captivating and emotionally engaging story that keeps readers hooked until the satisfying conclusion.
That morning Mrs. Kilpatrick had a case of nerves. Mrs. K knew that there was still the possibility that this morning’s imminent arrival would get cold feet. That Julia Fairfax would decide, at the la...2011•468 pages - #2
Save:Hauntingly beautiful and wrapped in the quiet frost of fairy tales, "Winter Rose" is for those who want to get lost in gorgeous prose and wintry enchantment rather than a tightly plotted adventure.
'Winter Rose' by Patricia A. McKillip is a beautifully written fantasy novel that weaves a tale of two sisters, Rois and Laurel, whose lives are changed by the return of Corbet Lynn to his ancestral home. The story unfolds with rumors of a curse on the Lynn family, leading to a romance between Laurel and Corbet, while Rois becomes obsessed with uncovering the truth behind the curse. McKillip's writing style is described as dreamy, lyrical, and rich in imagery, blurring the lines between reality and fantasy, creating a mysterious and enchanting atmosphere throughout the book.
The plot of 'Winter Rose' revolves around themes of love, family relationships, the harshness of winter, and the pain of longing for something unattainable. McKillip's unique wordsmithery and evocative storytelling transport the reader into a world where nature is imbued with magic, and the characters grapple with mysteries and secrets that blur the boundaries between dreams and reality. The book delves into the complexities of human emotions, the allure of the supernatural, and the power of storytelling to captivate and enchant.
I was kneeling at the well; I had just lifted water to my lips. The well was one of the wood’s secrets: a deep spring as clear as light, hidden under an overhang of dark stones down which the brier ro...1996•275 pages A beautifully written, deeply unsettling collection that blends folklore, horror, and social commentary - a perfect pick for readers craving literary chills and thoughtful unease.
"The Dangers of Smoking in Bed: Stories" by Mariana Enriquez is a collection of twelve short stories that explore supernatural themes with a social conscience. Set mostly in the impoverished barrios of Buenos Aires, the stories are told from the perspective of sad, lonely, or disturbed female protagonists. The writing style is described as beautiful, unsettling, and profound, with a mix of horror, magical realism, and feminist themes.
The plots of the stories range from a woman haunted by a decomposing baby to young women trying to contact the spirits of disappeared friends and relatives. The book delves into themes of ghosts, curses, mutilation, and psychological horror, presenting old horror tropes in a fresh and new way. The stories are rich in detail, vivid, and often disturbing, leaving a lasting impact on the reader.
My grandma didn’t like the rain, and before the first drops fell, when the sky grew dark, she would go out to the backyard with bottles and bury them halfway, with the whole neck underground; she beli...January 2021•194 pages- #4
Save:A moody, often chilling collection that shows a shadowy side of Gaskell’s skill. Not all stories are hits, but if you love Victorian Gothic with a blend of supernatural menace and social commentary, it’s well worth a read - best enjoyed in small doses on a blustery night!
Gothic Tales by Elizabeth Gaskell is a collection of short stories and novellas that delve into Gothic themes such as disappearances, curses, witches, and ancestral sins haunting younger generations. The stories are a blend of supernatural elements like ghosts and doppelgangers, along with explorations of the twisted side of human nature, set in eerie and chilling atmospheres. Gaskell's writing style is described as suspenseful, historical, and containing a great deal of detail presented in a lively manner.
The book offers a mix of horror and social commentary, exploring themes of witchcraft, hauntings, and societal evils with an atmospheric and enthralling tone. Readers appreciate the well-developed and effectively spooky tales that are a refreshing departure from modern horror stories, providing a glimpse into Victorian supernatural fiction through Gaskell's masterful storytelling.
I am not in the habit of seeing the Household Words regularly; but a friend, who lately sent me some of the back numbers, recommended me to read ‘all the papers relating to the Detective and Protectiv...2000•418 pages - #5
Save:A solid, chilling debut that shakes up haunted house conventions - atmospheric, creative, and thoughtful. Might not be the scariest read, but it’s haunting in all the right ways. Worth picking up, especially if you’re after something different in the genre.
The Spite House by Johnny Compton is a gripping tale that follows the Ross family as they seek refuge in a haunted house, desperate for money, a place to stay, and anonymity. The tension in the story builds as the family faces ghosts, secrets, and fear, all while navigating ulterior motives from the creepy old lady who owns the house and the looming presence of the man who built the house out of spite. Through multiple points of view, the author weaves a narrative that delves into generational curses, the depths of a father's love, and the chilling reality of being haunted in a town where ghosts are an everyday occurrence.
Compton's writing style in The Spite House is captivating and thought-provoking, drawing readers in quickly with deep fear and a unique take on the haunted house genre. The book offers a fresh perspective by focusing on the complexities of family dynamics, the concept of generational curses, and the unexpected twists that keep the reader engaged from beginning to end.
February 2023•268 pages - #6
Save:A chilling, emotionally resonant horror novella with real bite - perfect for those drawn to cursed media, psychological darkness, and 90s nostalgia. Approach with care if tough topics hit close to home.
"Scanlines" by Todd Keisling is a dark tale that delves into themes of suicide, depression, and the haunting consequences of watching a disturbing video. The story follows a group of teenage boys who come across a haunting video clip online, leading to a descent into madness as they are haunted by the image of a dead congressman. The writing style is described as beautifully written and sensitive to the topic of depression, with the author incorporating personal insights into the narrative. The plot revolves around the characters' struggle to understand the eerie events unfolding around them, creating a sense of suspense and unease throughout the book.
I’ve read Danny’s suicide note six times, hoping that maybe I can will its truth into lies. It’s a joke, a big prank he and Jordan have pulled on me, one that’s lasted twenty years and any moment now...May 2021•132 pages - #7
Save:A stylish mix of occult mystery and classic horror vibes with rich cultural flavor - great for film buffs and fans of slow-building supernatural tales, but might feel too slow or not scary enough for some.
'Silver Nitrate' by Silvia Moreno-Garcia is a horror novel that follows Montserrat, a talented sound editor in the film industry in Mexico City, who is left out of the boys' club dominating the field. The story unfolds as she navigates her unrequited love for her best friend Tristan and delves into the world of magic and occult history, intertwined with the film industry. The narrative incorporates elements of horror, cults, and the behind-the-scenes aspects of old-school horror movies, culminating in a tale of supernatural suspense that combines occult practices, gothic horror, and the film industry.
The plot of 'Silver Nitrate' takes a slow burn approach, gradually building up the atmosphere and character development before introducing supernatural elements. The writing style is described as subtle, detailed, and authentic, with references to historical events and horror icons like Aleister Crowley and classic horror films. The story explores themes of unrequited love, friendship, magic, and the consequences of delving into forces beyond one's understanding.
July 2023•328 pages - #8
Save:A fast-paced, imaginative ghost story packed with creepy visuals, rock and roll flair, and surprising emotional depth. Not the scariest out there, but a great pick for horror fans looking for new voices and memorable characters.
"Heart-Shaped Box" by Joe Hill follows the story of aging rockstar Judas Coyne who purchases a haunted suit online, unknowingly acquiring a vengeful ghost along with it. The book delves into themes of ghosts, malevolent spirits, and the consequences of one's past actions. The plot is filled with suspense and eerie moments, keeping readers engaged as the story unfolds. Hill's writing style is described as well-crafted, suspenseful, and full of vivid descriptions that create a chilling atmosphere throughout the book.
He had framed sketches of the Seven Dwarfs on the wall of his studio, in between his platinum records. John Wayne Gacy had drawn them while he was in jail and sent them to him. Gacy liked golden-age D...October 2000•479 pages - #9
Save:A smart, unique blend of crime, psychological horror, and unsettling suspense - ‘Ring’ is a must for fans of thoughtful thrillers and anyone seeking a different flavor of horror. Don’t expect a movie clone; embrace the slow-burn tension and you’ll be thoroughly rewarded.
Ring by Koji Suzuki weaves a tense narrative filled with supernatural elements and detective work. The plot centers around journalist Asakawa, who discovers a mysterious video that predicts death after seven days of viewing. He embarks on a gripping investigation, which leads him to eerie connections between several fatalities, including that of his niece. The story builds with a suspenseful atmosphere that keeps readers on edge, as they follow Asakawa and his friend Ryuji piecing together a dark mystery surrounding the vengeful spirit Sadako.
Suzuki's writing style combines elements of thriller and detective fiction, often leaving horror lurking in the background. The narrative slows at times to explore philosophical concepts, creating a tension that enhances the overall eeriness. Asakawa's character development is notable, making readers empathize with his struggles and doubts. Though some may find certain plot elements unlogical, the compelling prose and thoughtful reflections will draw readers into the chilling tale of Ring.
282 pages - #10
Save:Atmospheric, creepy, and clever - a meta-mystery that blurs reality and fiction, complete with interactive flourishes. Not for the impatient or those needing hard answers, but perfect for noir lovers and the eternally curious. Just don’t expect to sleep easy after reading!
'Night Film' by Marisha Pessl is a psychological thriller that delves into the mysterious death of Ashley Cordova, daughter of famous filmmaker Stanislas Cordova. The story follows journalist Scott McGrath as he investigates Ashley's apparent suicide, leading him into the dark world of the occult, magic, and the underbelly of New York City. The book weaves a complex narrative filled with twists and turns, incorporating elements of horror and suspense, keeping the reader engaged throughout its over 600 pages.
The writing style of 'Night Film' is described as intense, colorful, and intriguing, with a dark and atmospheric tone that adds to the overall suspense of the story. The book includes multimedia elements such as photos, newspaper clippings, and online content, enhancing the reader's experience and creating a sense of immersion in the world of Stanislas Cordova's films and mysteries.
A large chandelier showered golden light on the crowd as I surveyed the party in the bronze mirror over the mantel. I was startled to spot someone I barely recognized: myself. Blue button-down, sports...August 2013•623 pages
