Books matching: fear of the unknown
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- #1
In the book 'Bird Box' by Josh Malerman, the story revolves around a post-apocalyptic world where mysterious creatures drive people to madness and violence upon sight. The main character, Malorie, is pregnant and seeks refuge with other survivors in a safe house, where all windows are covered, and going outside requires being blindfolded. The narrative unfolds in two timelines - the past, focusing on Malorie's time in the safe house and raising her children, and the present, as she navigates down a river in search of a safe haven. The writing style is described as weird, bizarre, but entertaining, interweaving past and present seamlessly to create a suspenseful and gripping tale.
Her hands are damp. She is trembling. She taps her toe nervously on the cracked tile floor. It is early; the sun is probably only peeking above the horizon. She watches its meagre light turn the heavy... - #2
'Dagon' by H.P. Lovecraft is a short story that serves as a great starting point for readers interested in exploring Lovecraft's works. It is described as a tale that packs a punch in just a few pages, giving readers a good insight into Lovecraft's writing style and handling of horror. The story revolves around a sailor who finds himself stranded on a desolate island, encountering horrifying and ominous landscapes with beautiful flowing language. 'Dagon' is known for its brevity, originality, and its ability to evoke fear of the unknown and giant creatures, capturing the essence of Lovecraft's macabre horror.
I am writing this under an appreciable mental strain, since by tonight I shall be no more. Penniless, and at the end of my supply of the drug which alone makes life endurable, I can bear the torture n... - #3
Remembering Babylon by David Malouf is a powerful and beautifully rendered novel that delves into the collision of cultures in 19th century Australia. The story follows Gemmy Fairley, a white man who grew up among Aborigines after being cast ashore on an Australian beach. The novel explores themes of identity, fear, compassion, and the complexities of human relationships. Malouf's poetic writing style immerses the reader in the harsh realities of nature and the emotional depths of the characters, creating a vivid and thought-provoking narrative that challenges societal norms and prejudices.
- #4
'Songs of a Dead Dreamer' by Thomas Ligotti is a collection of horror stories that delve into the eerie and unsettling aspects of the genre. The book showcases Ligotti's unique writing style, which is described as poetic and atmospheric, creating a sense of dread and unease throughout the stories. The plots often revolve around bizarre and surreal scenarios, blurring the lines between reality and nightmare.
- #5
The Beast in the Cave is a short story by H.P. Lovecraft, written when he was just 15 years old. The plot revolves around a man who gets lost in an underground cave, surrounded by darkness and haunted by an unseen creature. This experience creates a sense of fear and foreboding, as the narrator grapples with the terror of the unknown, leading to a cliffhanger ending that leaves readers in suspense about the true nature of the beast.
Lovecraft's writing style is characterized by its psychological depth and atmospheric tension. He builds a palpable fear throughout the story, effectively using descriptive language to convey the oppressive darkness of the cave. The narrative is straightforward yet powerful, focusing on existential themes and the dread of the unknown, making it a compelling piece for both new and seasoned readers of Lovecraft.
The horrible conclusion which had been gradually obtruding itself upon my confused and reluctant mind was now an awful certainty. I was lost, completely, hopelessly lost in the vast and labyrinthine r... - #6
'Sphere' by Michael Crichton is a science fiction thriller that follows a team of scientists investigating an unidentified spacecraft at the bottom of the Pacific Ocean. The book explores themes of psychological drama, scientific exploration, and the power of human imagination. As the team delves deeper into the mystery, they encounter unexpected challenges and face the consequences of their discoveries, leading to a gripping and suspenseful narrative. Crichton's writing style combines detailed scientific explanations with plot twists and page-turning suspense, keeping readers engaged throughout the story.
FOR A LONG TIME the horizon had been a monotonous flat blue line separating the Pacific Ocean from the sky. The Navy helicopter raced forward, flying low, near the waves. Despite the noise and the thu... - #7
"At the Mountains of Madness" is a novella written by H.P. Lovecraft in the early 1930s, set in Antarctica during that time period. The story follows a scientific expedition from Miskatonic University that uncovers an ancient, prehistoric city and the horrifying beings that once inhabited it. Lovecraft's writing style is described as florid and descriptive, pulling the reader towards each dreadful revelation with references to common myths and places in his other works.
I am forced into speech because men of science have refused to follow my advice without knowing why. It is altogether against my will that I tell my reasons for opposing this contemplated invasion of ... 'The Complete Works of H.P. Lovecraft' is a comprehensive collection of horror short stories, novels, juvenilia, collaborations, and ghost writings by H.P. Lovecraft. The book is praised for its completeness, including all the short stories and coauthored works, making it a valuable collection for both new readers and die-hard fans. The writing style of Lovecraft is described as classic horror fiction and fantasy, with stories that are both charming and occasionally creepy, filled with over-the-top descriptions and bizarre scenes. However, the book also addresses the problematic aspects of Lovecraft's writing, such as racism and xenophobia, which are evident in some of his works.
- #9
Dark Matter is a haunting ghost story set in the Arctic, following Jack's journal entries as he joins an expedition to a remote uninhabited area named Gruhuken. As Jack faces isolation and darkness during the Arctic winter, he begins to witness disturbing occurrences, building tension and fear among the characters. The book explores themes of loneliness, paranoia, and the unexplained, creating a chilling atmosphere that keeps readers engaged.
The writing style of Dark Matter is atmospheric and suspenseful, drawing readers into the desolate Arctic setting and the psychological turmoil of the characters. Michelle Paver skillfully weaves a slow-burning narrative that delves into the depths of despair and the human need for companionship, while also incorporating elements of folklore and ghostly encounters to create a gripping tale of survival and fear.
I can’t spend a year in the Arctic with that lot. They arrange to ‘meet for a drink’,then give me a grilling,and make it pretty clear what they think of a grammar-school boy with a London degree. Tomo... - #10
'The Willows' by Algernon Blackwood is a classic horror story published in 1907, known for its slow buildup of dread and atmospheric setting. The plot follows two companions on a canoeing trip down the Danube River who camp on a small island surrounded by willow trees. As they experience strange and unsettling events, the story delves into psychological horror, emphasizing the power of nature and the unknown. Blackwood's writing style is praised for its simplicity yet powerful conveyance of mystery, making the reader feel a sense of impending doom throughout the narrative. The book is described as a masterful example of horror fiction that evokes fear without relying on gore or explicit violence.
After leaving Vienna, and long before you come to Budapest, the Danube enters a region of singular loneliness and desolation, where its waters spread away on all sides regardless of a main channel, an...