Books matching: haunting and terrifying story
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The Rime of the Ancient Mariner by Samuel Taylor Coleridge is a classic poem that tells a haunting and terrifying story of a mariner who faces the consequences of killing an albatross. The poem delves into themes of thoughtlessness, doom, despoiling the earth, and the sanctity of life, all presented in a refined and eloquent writing style. Coleridge weaves a tale of horror and power unleashed when a single mistake is made against the spirit world, creating images as scary as any modern movie and leaving the reader with a chilling and thought-provoking experience.
I Ye Clouds! that far above me float and pause, Whose pathless march no mortal may controul! Ye Ocean-Waves! that, wheresoe’er ye roll, Yield homage only to eternal laws! Ye Woods! that listen to the ...- #2
Set in a creepy Victorian-era estate, "The Silent Companions" follows Elsie Bainbridge, a young widow who discovers eerie wooden figures that seem to have a life of their own. As Elsie delves into the secrets of the house, she uncovers a history of supernatural occurrences and dark mysteries spanning centuries. The narrative shifts between different time periods, weaving a tale of suspense, horror, and family secrets that keep the reader on edge. Laura Purcell's writing style is described as atmospheric, vivid, and slow-burning, creating a sense of unease and tension throughout the book.
The new doctor took her by surprise. Not that there was anything unusual in his arrival – doctors came and went often enough. But this one was young. New to the profession, as well as the place. There... - #3
'Bag of Bones' by Stephen King is a haunting tale that weaves together elements of a ghost story, a love story, and a whodunit murder mystery. The story follows writer Mike Noonan as he uncovers secrets about his late wife and becomes entangled in a mysterious history of murders in a small town. The novel is praised for its blend of supernatural happenings, self-discovery, and suspenseful storytelling that keeps readers captivated until the very end.
On a very hot day in August of 1994, my wife told me she was going down to the Derry Rite Aid to pick up a refill on her sinus medicine prescription—this is stuff you can buy over the counter these da... - #4
'Haunted' by Chuck Palahniuk is a collection of short stories woven together by a central narrative. The book follows 23 aspiring authors who are locked away in a writer's retreat to find their muse. As they stay longer, their stories become more revealing and disturbing, leading them to descend into madness. The stories range from wild and crazy accounts, including graphic and grotesque elements, to a central focus on the entertainment-driven culture. Palahniuk's writing style is described as wicked brilliant, engaging, and horrifying, with a unique blend of humor and darkness that captivates readers.
The book is structured in a Canterbury Tales format, with each participant having a nickname and sharing a poem and a story. The narrative explores themes of depravity, insanity, desperation, and other vices typical of the author. The stories are blackly humorous, macabre, and at times shocking, challenging readers to consider the darker aspects of humanity while showcasing Palahniuk's ability to craft compelling and disturbing narratives.
When the bus pulls to the corner where Comrade Snarky had agreed to wait, she stands there in an army-surplus flak jacket—dark olive-green—and baggy camouflage pants, the cuffs rolled up to show infan... - #5
Readers found 'When the Reckoning Comes' to be a haunting and complex story that blends elements of horror, ghost stories, and social justice. The novel follows Mira, who returns to her childhood friends Jesse and Celine for a wedding at a restored plantation house, leading to a reckoning with the past and present horrors of slavery. The writing style is described as suspenseful, engaging, and thought-provoking, with a focus on the importance of confronting historical truths and honoring sacrifices.
AFTER, PEOPLE HAD asked Mira what she saw. After the arrest, followed by his release, for months afterward, people would ask, classmates at school, strangers even, whenever she found herself alone, th... - #6
"Nightmare House" by Douglas Clegg follows the story of Ethan Gravesend who inherits his grandfather's mansion, Harrow House, and delves into the dark secrets hidden within its walls. The novel is described as a haunted house story filled with family secrets, nightmares, and supernatural horrors. The writing style is praised for its ability to create a creepy and suspenseful atmosphere, with shifting points of view that keep the story engaging and mysterious. The plot unfolds as Ethan uncovers the terrifying truths about his past and the chilling mysteries surrounding the house and its previous inhabitants.
Once, one can suppose, there was some innocence here, on this land, but my research has shown that the earth from which the stones were taken was bloody ground, that not a window—not a piece of glass—...
(Also, see 46 recommendations for the series Harrow House ) - #7
Apartment 16 by Adam Nevill is a horror novel that follows the intertwined stories of an American girl inheriting an apartment in an affluent part of London and a struggling artist who works as the night porter in the same building. Strange events and visions plague the inhabitants of the building, linked to a previous resident's dark past. As the characters uncover the building's unsettling history and face demonic forces, they are drawn into a chilling and suspenseful narrative that blurs the lines between reality and the occult. The writing style mixes elements of horror, mystery, and the supernatural, creating a creepy atmosphere that keeps readers on edge throughout the book.
Swept up the concrete stairs by the bustle and rush of people about her, she emerged with her backpack onto the sidewalk. She’d been on the subway for so long the steely light smarted against the back... - #8
Mexican Gothic by Silvia Moreno-Garcia is a gothic mystery set in Mexico in the 1950s, following the story of a young socialite named Noemi Taboada. Noemi receives a troubling letter from her cousin who recently married into the Doyle family and is unwell. She travels to the family's eerie mansion, High Place, where she encounters strange inhabitants and begins to unravel the mysteries surrounding her cousin's illness. The book combines elements of classic gothic romance, a haunted house mystery, and explores themes of colonialism and horror in a unique setting.
The writing style of Mexican Gothic is described as atmospheric and immersive, drawing readers into the cold and haunted environment of the mansion. The plot unfolds with suspenseful pacing, blending Victorian sensibilities with creepy and grotesque elements like mushrooms, mysterious dreams, and family secrets. The protagonist, Noemi, is highlighted as a strong and brave heroine who must navigate the dark secrets of High Place to save her cousin and herself, making for a gripping and eerie tale.
The parties at the Tuñóns’ house always ended unquestionably late, and since the hosts enjoyed costume parties in particular, it was not unusual to see Chinas Poblanas with their folkloric skirts and ... - #9
'Still Missing' by Chevy Stevens is a psychological thriller that follows the story of Annie, a realtor who is abducted during an open house and held captive for a year. The narrative is presented through Annie's therapy sessions, where she recounts the horrors she endured and her struggles to readjust to normal life after escaping. The book delves into the psychological impact of captivity, the manipulation by the abductor, and the journey towards healing and recovery. The plot includes unexpected twists and turns, keeping readers engaged with its suspenseful and gripping storytelling style.
The writing in 'Still Missing' is described as haunting and heart-wrenching, with readers praising the author's ability to evoke strong emotions and create a chilling atmosphere. The use of first-person narration adds authenticity to Annie's voice, allowing readers to empathize with her trauma and resilience. The book explores themes of survival, fear, trust, and the aftermath of a traumatic experience, offering a compelling and intense reading experience that delves into the darkest corners of the human psyche.
You know, Doc, you’re not the first shrink I’ve seen since I got back. The one my family doctor recommended right after I came home was a real prize. The guy actually tried to act like he didn’t know ... - #10
"Sweetheart, Sweetheart" by Bernard Taylor follows the story of David Warwick, who returns to England after the sudden deaths of his twin brother Colin and Colin's wife. As David investigates the circumstances surrounding their deaths, he inherits their cottage and moves in with his fiancee. However, he soon starts feeling a mysterious presence in the cottage, leading to a chilling ghost story with elements of madness, murder, and betrayal. The writing style is described as English, understated, and creepy, with a focus on creating a sense of foreboding and developing a chilling atmosphere that keeps readers on edge.
As I lie here in the short-cropped grass with my eyes just half open a butterfly alights on the carved angel’s head. It stays only a few seconds—its wings opening and closing—then takes off, flutterin...