'The Elementals' by Michael McDowell is a Southern Gothic horror novel set on an isolated spit of land on the Gulf of Mexico, where two families vacation in the stifling Alabama summers. The story revolves around the mysterious Third House, being slowly engulfed by a sand dune, harboring something sinister. The author masterfully creates a suspenseful and disturbing atmosphere during the sweltering Southern summer, with a blend of eerie occurrences and dysfunctional family dynamics. Characters like Luker, India, and Odessa bring depth to the story, while the unsettling buildup leads to a chilling climax that leaves readers on edge.
The narrative of 'The Elementals' gradually introduces readers to the characters and their relationships, drawing them into a world where supernatural elements slowly creep up on them. McDowell's writing style is described as atmospheric, creepy, and unsettling, with a focus on creating a unique blend of Southern Gothic horror. The novel explores themes of family ties, mysterious occurrences, and the haunting presence of the Third House, making it a gripping and immersive read that keeps readers engaged till the end.
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Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings
Content warnings include themes around death, grief, alcoholism, and troubled family dynamics.
From The Publisher:
"Surely one of the most terrifying novels ever written." - Poppy Z. Brite
"Beyond any trace of doubt, one of the best writers of horror in this or any other country." - Peter Straub
"Readers of weak constitution should beware " - Publishers Weekly
"McDowell has a flair for the gruesome." - Washington Post
After a bizarre and disturbing incident at the funeral of matriarch Marian Savage, the McCray and Savage families look forward to a restful and relaxing summer at Beldame, on Alabama's Gulf Coast, where three Victorian houses loom over the shimmering beach. Two of the houses are habitable, while the third is slowly and mysteriously being buried beneath an enormous dune of blindingly white sand. But though long uninhabited, the third house is not empty. Inside, something deadly lies in wait. Something that has terrified Dauphin Savage and Luker McCray since they were boys and which still haunts their nightmares. Something horrific that may be responsible for several terrible and unexplained deaths years earlier - and is now ready to kill again . . .
Ratings (42)
Incredible (5) | |
Loved It (12) | |
Liked It (18) | |
It Was OK (4) | |
Did Not Like (3) |
Reader Stats (163):
Read It (41) | |
Want To Read (83) | |
Did Not Finish (3) | |
Not Interested (36) |
2 comment(s)
(3.5 stars) Listened to audiobook w/hubby
Michael McDowell never wrote a bad book. They are all—hand to God—perfect. The Elementals is your doorway to joy. Read the Dark Water series next and bless my name every time you think back on what a great read it was.
What can you read after
The Elementals?
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