Books matching: folklore and suspense
43 result(s)
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- #1
Save:The Nesting by C.J. Cooke is a psychological thriller steeped in rich Norwegian folklore, blending real-world drama with fairytale-esque supernatural elements. The story follows Lexi, who assumes the identity of a professional nanny and gets a job with a family in Norway, only to uncover secrets and face mysterious forces that threaten the children she is tasked to protect. The narrative weaves between past and present, exploring themes of consequences, nature, and family dynamics against the backdrop of a remote forest location in Norway.
The book is described as a mix of mystery, old Norse tales, ghosts, horror, and Gothic vibes, creating a chilling and atmospheric setting that keeps readers engaged. The author, C.J. Cooke, skillfully incorporates vivid imagery, local superstitions, and suspenseful twists that add depth to the plot, making it a compelling read for those who enjoy dark and foreboding narratives.
- #2
Save:The Beast of Barcroft by Bill Schweigart is a 'creature horror' novel that brings back the tradition of horror from the 1970s and 1980s, reminiscent of authors like Graham Masterton and James Herbert. The story follows Ben McKelvie, who moves to the suburban neighborhood of Barcroft only to discover a Native American mythological demon beast terrorizing the area. As the attacks escalate, Ben teams up with a curator from the Smithsonian's National Zoo and a self-styled cryptozoologist to uncover the sinister truth behind the killings and stop the Beast of Barcroft.
The writing style of The Beast of Barcroft is described as clear, interesting, and engaging with plenty of action, chills, and suspense. Readers found the book to be a page-turner that keeps them absorbed, with a good pace, well-developed characters, and a mysterious and menacing monster that adds to the entertainment value of the story.
Ben McKelvie watched a survival show on cable from his couch in Arlington, where the host, with an enthusiasm bordering on mania, was trekking across the Serengeti. The host stopped and unzipped his p... - #3
Save:The Curse of Crow Hollow by Billy Coffey is a dark and intricate tale set in a small town filled with superstition and fear. The story follows a group of teenagers whose actions lead to a series of sinister events, uncovering the deep-rooted secrets and mysteries of the community. Through a blend of folklore, suspense, and unexpected twists, Coffey delves into the themes of good versus evil, forgiveness versus consequences, and the exploration of humanity's darker aspects.
Come on out that sun and tell me hello. Devilish out, ain’t it? Hard to believe only a few months back, me an everybody else’s pining for summer. Now here I sit, wishing the leaves’d hurry up and turn... - #4
Save:The Twelve Days of Murder by Andreina Cordani is a twisty thriller set in a snow-covered Scottish mansion, where a group of unlikable characters from a university murder mystery club reunite for one last event. This Agatha Christie-esque tale unfolds in a dual timeline, allowing readers to experience the past and present from different points of view while piecing together the mystery of who is behind the murders. The clever integration of the Twelve Days of Christmas theme adds a festive twist to the suspenseful narrative, keeping readers engaged with numerous red herrings and unexpected plot twists.
The writing style is characterized by an atmospheric and suspenseful tone, immersing readers in the chilling setting and the complex dynamics among the characters. Although some felt the multitude of characters was initially confusing and detracted from their connection to the story, the overall execution is seen as well-crafted and enjoyable. The book offers a satisfying mystery with a dash of gore, perfect for those looking for a dark yet festive read during the holiday season.
- #5
Save:'Coyote Rage' by Owl Goingback is a horror-filled novel that seamlessly blends Native American folklore with modern suspense. The story follows Luther Watie, the last human on the Great Council in the spirit world, who must thwart Coyote's evil plan to eliminate human representation. With well-drawn characters, including the trickster god Coyote, the novel takes the reader on a thrilling journey through two worlds - the Turtle world of modern society and the spirit world of the ancients, where animals rule.
The writing style in 'Coyote Rage' is described as quick-paced, compelling, and suspenseful. Readers praise Owl Goingback's ability to create genuine fear and convey true horror, making the book a page-turner that keeps readers engaged until the final sentence. The novel is a mix of horror, action, and fantasy, offering a unique and enjoyable reading experience that showcases the author's talent in blending folklore with modern storytelling.
- #6
Save:'Red Winter' by Dan Smith is a historical fiction novel set in rural Russia during the Russian Civil War. The story follows Kolya, a former Red Army soldier who deserts his unit to return home and search for his missing family. As Kolya navigates the wintry landscape, he encounters mysterious characters, faces his past, and delves into the dark folklore of Koschei, The Deathless One. The book is praised for its descriptive writing style that immerses readers in the haunting atmosphere of post-revolutionary Russia, capturing the hardships and struggles of the characters during that tumultuous time.
‘You think they’re hiding from us?’ I spoke to my brother. ‘Or do you think . . . ?’ I stared at the back of his head and let my words trail away. ‘I promised to get you home, Alek. Look.’ I raised my... - #7
Save:Starve Acre by Andrew Michael Hurley follows Richard and Juliette Willoughby as they grapple with the grief of losing their young son, Ewan. Moving to an inherited home in the Moors, they encounter an insular and superstitious community while dealing with their own sorrow and the supernatural events surrounding their property. The narrative weaves between past and present, slowly revealing the eerie secrets of Starve Acre and the mysterious forces at play, culminating in a shocking conclusion that leaves readers haunted.
- #8
Save:The Haunting of Hill House by Shirley Jackson is a classic horror novel that tells the story of four individuals invited to investigate the paranormal occurrences at Hill House. As they delve into the mysteries of the house, strange phenomena begin to unfold, leading to a growing sense of disassociation from reality and genuine horror. The narrative is a meditation on isolation, fear, and desperation, particularly focusing on the protagonist Eleanor's psychological journey as she navigates the haunting presence of Hill House.
No live organism can continue for long to exist sanely under conditions of absolute reality; even larks and katydids are supposed, by some, to dream. Hill House, not sane, stood by itself against its ... - #9
Save:'The Mere Wife' by Maria Dahvana Headley is a modern retelling of Beowulf set in the American suburbs, focusing on the lives of Dana Mills, a shell-shocked veteran living in a mountain with her son Gren, and Willa Herot, a privileged suburbanite dealing with her son Dylan's imaginary friend. The book explores themes of motherhood, female relationships, class divide, and the consequences of human actions, all while incorporating elements of surrealism and clever wordplay. The plot unfolds with intense psychological drama, blood-soaked storylines, and a lyrical writing style that captures the essence of the original Beowulf tale while adding a modern twist.
Listen. Long after the end of everything is supposed to have occurred, long after apocalypses have been calculated by cults and calendared by computers, long after the world has ceased believing in mi... - #10The Book Woman of Troublesome CreekBook 1 in the series:The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek
Save:In 1936, deep in the woods of eastern Kentucky, lives Cussy Carter, a 19-year-old member of the historical Pack Horse Library Project, who is also known as a Blue due to her blue skin. The book follows Cussy's journey as she delivers books to the impoverished hill people of Eastern Kentucky, facing prejudices and challenges along the way. The novel sheds light on race, poverty, and the love of literature, offering a unique perspective on what it means to be an outcast in society.
The story is told in the first person by Cussy, also known as Bluet, as she navigates through the challenges of being a pack horse librarian, dealing with poverty, hunger, and the coal mining industry in the mountains of Kentucky. The book delves into the historical context of the Pack Horse Librarians and the Blue People, intertwining their stories to create a compelling narrative that explores themes of prejudice, poverty, and resilience in the face of adversity.
Satisfied, Pa carried it out of our one-room log house and onto the hand-hewn porch. He was hopeful. Hoping 1936 was the year his only daughter, nineteen-year-old Cussy Mary Carter, would get herself ...
