Books matching: gothic mansion setting
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- #1
The Sundial by Shirley Jackson is a dark and witty novel that follows the Halloran family and their eccentric group of companions as they prepare for the end of the world. After a vision from deceased family members, the characters stockpile supplies, burn books, and confine themselves in their mansion, all under the imperious leadership of Orianna Halloran. The story unfolds with a mix of humor and tension, satirizing class pretensions and exploring the dynamics of a dysfunctional family in the face of an impending apocalypse. Jackson's writing style is described as perfect, with not a word wasted, as she weaves a tale that blurs the lines between reality and magic, creating a sense of creepiness and suspense throughout the narrative.
After the funeral they came back to the house, now indisputably Mrs. Halloran’s. They stood uneasily, without any certainty, in the large lovely entrance hall, and watched Mrs. Halloran go into the ri... - #2
A Lesson in Thorns by Sierra Simone is a dark and mysterious erotic novel that follows six interconnected characters tied to Thornchapel, a church with secrets and ritualistic purposes. The story is told through multiple perspectives, blending first-person POV with splashes of third-person POV, adding to the mystery and emotional depth of the narrative. The atmospheric writing style creates a gothic and alluring setting in Thornchapel, where the characters navigate their desires and relationships in a complex and engaging manner.
First, there was the escape, which wasn’t an escape at all, really. The adults were busy with whatever it was that kept them cloistered and murmuring in the library, and the children were otherwise un... - #3
"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... - #4
Ivy Leavold, a 19-year-old girl left destitute after her brother's death, finds herself welcomed into the dark and mysterious world of Julian Markham, her estranged cousin's widower. As Ivy navigates her new life at Markham Hall, she is drawn to the darkness that haunts the mansion and its enigmatic master. The story unfolds with a mix of historical romance and gothic elements, exploring themes of forbidden desires, power dynamics, and hidden secrets. The writing style is described as engaging, fast-paced, and filled with sexual tension, making it a captivating read that keeps readers hooked until the very end.
The clatter of hooves and wheels on the road prevented me from answering. Instead, I continued to watch the landscape roll by outside, thick woods and shallow vales punctuated by narrow streams and lo... - #5
'The Hawkline Monster' by Richard Brautigan is a surreal and odd novel that blends elements of gothic and western storytelling. The story follows two guns for hire, Greer and Cameron, as they are hired by an Indian girl named Magic Child to kill a monster in an old house in Eastern Oregon at the start of the 20th century. The mansion, known as Hawkline Manor, is built over ice caves and holds a dark secret involving a malevolent and supernatural force that plays games with reality. Brautigan's writing style is described as whimsical, quirky, and unique, with a touch of humor and surrealism that keeps readers engaged.
“How do we figure into this?” Greer said. “Why didn’t you go for the marshal and have him come out here and take a look into this? He seems to be a good man and he has a lot of interest in one of you.... - #6
'Sweet Agony' by Charlotte Stein is a unique romance novel that follows the story of Molly, a girl from a hard knock family who becomes a housekeeper for Cyrian Harcroft, a reclusive man living in a gothic house. The book delves into the relationship between Molly and Cyrian, exploring themes of trust, self-worth, and mutual understanding. The narrative is described as quirky, with a mix of erotic scenes, dom sub dynamics, and a touch of Beauty and the Beast retelling.
The writing style of 'Sweet Agony' is noted for its gushy and genuine voice of the protagonist, Molly. The story is told mainly from Molly's point of view, providing insights into her thoughts and emotions as she navigates her feelings for Cyrian and discovers his vulnerabilities beneath his stoic exterior. The book is praised for its unconventional plot, engaging dialogue between the characters, and the titillating exploration of restraint and intimacy.
The advert says ‘Seeking Housekeeper’, which I guess sounds innocent enough. Even the other stuff underneath is only pretty weird, rather than very. It just asks for excellent tea-making skills, and n... - #7
Black Light by Elizabeth Hand is a genre-transcending novel that delves into the world of sheltered and privileged teenagers in the 1970s, exploring themes of difference, love, and refusal to conform. The writing style is described as lush, slightly psychedelic, and meandering through myth and modernity, with a plot that revolves around a struggle between order and chaos, where the main character is asked to choose sides but refuses to do so. The story is set at a mysterious Halloween party in a gothic mansion, where the protagonist, Charlotte Lit Moylan, undergoes a transformative journey from adolescence to adulthood.
MY MOTHER CLAIMED TO have been on the set of Darkness Visible when Axel Kern fired a revolver into the air, not to goad his actors but out of frustration with a scriptgirl who repeatedly handed him th... - #8
'Stolen Heir' by Sophie Lark is a dark mafia romance that follows the enemies to lovers trope, intertwined with elements of a beauty and the beast retelling. The story revolves around Mikolaj, a dangerous and hot mafia heir who finds himself drawn to Nessa, the innocent and sheltered youngest member of the Griffin Irish Mafia family. As their relationship develops, readers are taken on a journey filled with gritty, tender, and suspenseful moments, showcasing the growth of both characters in the midst of a dangerous underworld.
The writing style of Sophie Lark in 'Stolen Heir' is described as addicting, captivating, and beautifully crafted by readers. The multiple points of view allow for a deeper exploration of the characters' emotions and motivations, enhancing the readers' connection to the story. Through a mix of angst, romance, and suspense, the book delves into themes of loss, revenge, and unexpected love, creating a captivating narrative that keeps readers engaged from start to finish.
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Brutal Birthright ) - #9
'Magnificence' by Lydia Millet revolves around Susan, a woman who inherits a mansion filled with taxidermy after her husband's death, leading her on a journey of self-discovery and introspection. The plot intricately weaves themes of love, loss, aging, moving on, and the mystery of everyday life. The writing style is described as magnificent, with witty observations on male behavior, realistic yet absurdist elements, and a unique blend of humor and depth that keeps readers engaged.
It was a stricken love, but still love. It was the kind of love that gazed up at you from the bare white flood of your headlights—a wide-eyed love with the meekness of grass-eaters. Soft fur, pink ton... - #10
'The Puzzle Master' by Danielle Trussoni follows the story of Mike Brink, a puzzle master with acquired savant syndrome, who is summoned to a women's prison to help solve a mysterious puzzle drawn by a detainee named Jess Price. Jess, a former successful author, is accused of murdering her boyfriend while house sitting a Gothic mansion. As Mike delves deeper into the puzzle and Jess's enigmatic silence, he uncovers a complex web of secrets involving psychic malevolence, creepy doll collections, and modern-day Jewish mysticism. The book seamlessly weaves together elements of mystery, suspense, and psychological intrigue, keeping readers on the edge of their seats as they navigate through hidden rooms, golems in Prague, and ethereal romances.
The writing style of 'The Puzzle Master' is praised for its excellent storytelling, engaging plot, and multidimensional characters. The author, Danielle Trussoni, skillfully incorporates research and philosophical questions into the narrative, offering readers a thought-provoking experience that can be enjoyed on multiple levels - as an action thriller, an educational text, or a philosophical treatise. The book is described as a page-turner that seamlessly blends elements of suspense, mysticism, and psychological depth, making it a compelling read for fans of the genre.