Books matching: dark gothic tale
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- #1
Save:'One Dark Window' in the 'Shepherd King' series by Rachel Gillig is an enchanting, dark, gothic tale about Elspeth, a girl with a big secret - an infection that gave her magic but comes with a price. Elspeth is pulled into a treasonous plot against the king to gather all the Twelve Cards of Magic gifted by the Spirit of the Wood to undo a blight on her kingdom. The story unfolds with Elspeth navigating the political landscape, dealing with a monster in her head, and falling in love while trying to save their kingdom. The writing style is described as rhythmic, captivating, enchanting, and immersive, drawing readers into a world filled with riddles, mystery, and magic.
The plot twists, including a big unexpected twist at the end, keep readers on the edge of their seats, with bone-chilling poems and jaw-dropping moments that drive home the storyline. The unique magic system, the atmospheric vibes, and the complex characters like Elspeth and Ravyn Yew add depth to the story, creating a lush gothic Romantasy that captivates readers and leaves them eagerly awaiting the next installment.
- #2
Save:The Death of Mrs. Westaway by Ruth Ware follows the story of Harriet Westaway, also known as Hal, who receives a letter about an inheritance from her grandmother, Hester Westaway, a woman she never knew existed. Desperate for money, Hal decides to attend the funeral and reading of the will, only to uncover a web of family secrets and mysteries that she must navigate. As she delves deeper into the Westaway family, Hal finds herself in danger and must untangle the truth about her parentage amidst a backdrop of isolation, deception, and dark revelations.
Ruth Ware's writing in The Death of Mrs. Westaway is described as engrossing, gothic, and suspenseful, reminiscent of classics like Rebecca. The book combines elements of family turmoil, long-buried secrets, and a brooding Cornish mansion, all wrapped up in a twisty mystery that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. With a compelling protagonist, shifty characters, and a questionable will, Ware's storytelling style draws readers in and immerses them in a modern take on the classic gothic mystery genre.
The girl leaned, rather than walked, into the wind, clutching the damp package of fish and chips grimly under one arm even as the gale plucked at the paper, trying to unravel the parcel and send the c... - #3
Save:'The Haunting of Alaizabel Cray' by Chris Wooding is a dark and gothic tale set in an alternate Victorian London overrun by supernatural creatures. The story follows Thaniel Fox, a wych hunter, as he encounters Alaizabel Cray, a young girl possessed by an ancient wych named Thatch. Together with a ragtag group of allies, they set out to uncover and thwart the sinister plans of the Fraternity, a powerful coven aiming to unleash a devastating apocalypse upon London and the world. The narrative is filled with suspense, horror, and intricate world-building, blending elements of fantasy, horror, and steampunk in a captivating and chilling manner.
- #4
Save:In "North and South" by Elizabeth Gaskell, the story follows Margaret Hale as she transitions from London society to the industrial town of Milton. The book explores the conflict between the needs of the working class and the factory owners during a strike, with a focus on the Industrial Revolution. The novel delves into themes of integrity, social commentary, and the growth of characters like Margaret and Mr. Thornton as they navigate societal expectations and personal beliefs. Gaskell's writing style is praised for its detailed depiction of life in the fictional town of Milton and its sympathetic portrayal of both the mill owners and the workers.
But, as Margaret half suspected, Edith had fallen asleep. She lay curled up on the sofa in the back drawing room in Harley Street, looking very lovely in her white muslin and blue ribbons. If Titania ... - #5
Save:'The Scarlet Letter' by Nathaniel Hawthorne is a classic novel set in Puritan New England during the 17th century. The story revolves around Hester Prynne, an adulteress who is forced to wear a scarlet letter 'A' on her dress as a symbol of her sin. The narrative delves into the consequences of adultery on the lives of Hester, her daughter Pearl, Reverend Arthur Dimmesdale, and Roger Chillingworth. The book explores themes of morality, guilt, sin, and redemption against the backdrop of a society obsessed with morals. Hawthorne's prose is described as beautiful and the book is considered a work of art due to its compelling portrayal of human frailty and sorrow.
A throng of bearded men, in sad-colored garments and gray, steeple-crowned hats, intermixed with women, some wearing hoods, and others bareheaded, was assembled in front of a wooden edifice, the door ... - #6
Save:In 'The Wolf Gift' by Anne Rice, readers are introduced to Reuben Golding, a reporter who undergoes a miraculous transformation after a savage attack. He becomes a werewolf and is filled with a restless need to wander at night. The book is a modern take on werewolf lore, set in Northern California, with elements of romance and supernatural intrigue. Anne Rice's writing style is described as beautifully descriptive, capturing the scenery and mood of the story in a unique and engaging way. The narrative delves into philosophical ponderings, adding depth to the characters and the overall plot.
REUBEN WAS A TALL MAN, well over six feet, with brown curly hair and deep-set blue eyes. “Sunshine Boy” was his nickname and he hated it; so he tended to repress what the world called an irresistible ... - #7
Save:'Tithe' by Holly Black follows the story of Kaye, a rebellious teenager who finds herself entangled in the world of faeries after moving back to her grandmother's house. As Kaye interacts with various faeries, she becomes embroiled in a battle between two factions of the fae. The book explores themes of identity, loyalty, and the blurred lines between good and evil in the faerie realm. The writing style is described as dark and modern, with a focus on urban fantasy elements and intricate world-building that delves into the complexities of faerie politics.
The old merry-go-round building had been semi-abandoned for years. Angelic lead faces, surrounded by rays of hair, divided the broken panes. The entire front of it was windowed, revealing the dirt flo... - #8
Save:In an old mansion in the heart of Barcelona, a young man named David Martin, an aspiring writer, receives a mysterious letter from a French editor, promising literary stardom if he fulfills just one task. As David delves into a pact that questions his values and beliefs, he faces debilitating headaches and a grim diagnosis. The story unfolds with elements of mystery, dark secrets, and a touch of magical realism, set against the backdrop of a gothic Barcelona in the early 20th century.
David's journey is filled with intrigue, romance, and tragedy as he navigates through a narrative woven with sinister characters, unexpected twists, and vividly described scenes of terror. As he grapples with the offer from a mysterious publisher, David finds himself entangled in a web of deception, murder, and the shadows surrounding his haunting mansion. The book explores themes of temptation, redemption, and the blurred lines between good and evil, all while immersing the reader in a labyrinthian thriller set in a dark, gothic Barcelona.
A writer never forgets the first time he accepted a few coins or a word of praise in exchange for a story. He will never forget the sweet poison of vanity in his blood, and the belief that, if he succ... - #9
Save:Igni Ferroque, the second book in the Tennebrose series by Ashlyn Drewek, delves into the complex and dark relationship between Phelan, a pious necromancer, and Remiel, a demon Prince of Hell. The book explores their intertwined paths filled with physical and mental struggles, toxic codependency, and a slow-burn romance that burns as hot as hellfire. The plot is filled with twists and turns, non-con elements, and a deliciously dark storyline that challenges the concepts of sin and salvation.
The writing style in Igni Ferroque is described as sublime, transporting readers to a world of dark magic and demonic forces. The pacing is intense, leaving readers on the edge of their seats with every turn of the page. The dynamic between the main characters, Phelan and Remiel, is both hilarious and heartwarming, with their banter and chemistry sparking off the page.
(Also, see 28 recommendations for the series Tennebrose ) - #10
Save:In "Interview with the Vampire," readers are introduced to Louis, a vampire who opens up about his origins, nature, and experiences to a young journalist in New Orleans. The book offers a fresh and innovative look at vampires and their lore, exploring themes of immortality, love, loneliness, and existential musings. The narrative style draws readers into a world of vampirism that Anne Rice vividly recreates, making it hard to believe it's fantasy, and leaving a lasting impact on those who delve into the story.
The book delves into the emotional elements of vampirism, portraying the struggles and complexities of being a vampire without romanticizing the experience. Through the eyes of Louis, readers get a glimpse into a world where the act of being a vampire is not idealized, but rather depicted as an intense emotional crisis that surpasses human struggles. The characters, including Louis, Lestat, and Claudia, are brought to life in a mesmerizing and realistic manner, making the reader live with them until the end of the journey.
ISEE…” said the vampire thoughtfully, and slowly he walked across the room towards the window. For a long time he stood there against the dim light from Divisadero Street and the passing beams of traf...
