Books matching: isolating and dark setting
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- #1
Save:Gorgeously written and deeply unsettling, "The Dumb House" is a dark, philosophical, and unforgettable story that will appeal to lovers of literary horror and boundary-pushing fiction - but it's definitely not for everyone.
'The Dumb House' by John Burnside is a dark and disturbing novel that explores the themes of language, human nature, and the complexities of the soul. The story follows Luke, a reclusive man conducting experiments to see if children can develop language without exposure to it. The narrative delves into Luke's twisted character, his unusual upbringing, and his depraved activities, all while questioning the essence of communication and its role in shaping thoughts and souls. The book is written in a dreamy and poetic style, drawing readers into a chilling yet compelling tale of moral incomprehensibility.
No one could say it was my choice to kill the twins, any more than it was my decision to bring them into the world. Each of these events was an inevitability, one thread in the fabric of what might be...1997•213 pages - #2
Save:A masterclass in existential and atmospheric horror, best read in doses. Haunting, poetic, and uniquely nightmarish - but definitely not comfort fiction.
Teatro Grottesco by Thomas Ligotti is a collection of short stories that delve into themes of pure pessimistic nihilism, loneliness, isolation, and the annihilation of existence. Ligotti's writing style is described as dense, precise, and full of ambiguity, creating a sense of existence as a nightmare. The stories in this collection distort perceptions of everyday life, leaving behind a sense of creeping dread and surreal melancholy.
We were living in a rented house, neither the first nor the last of a long succession of such places that the family inhabited throughout my childhood years. It was shortly after we had moved into thi...2006•315 pages - #3
Save:A moody, lyrical night walk through Tokyo – mysterious, beautifully written, and perfect for readers who love atmosphere over action. Not Murakami's weirdest or deepest, but a great introduction or a quick dip into his dreamlike world.
After Dark by Haruki Murakami is a novel that unfolds over the course of one night in Tokyo, where the lives of various characters intersect in intriguing ways. The story follows a 19-year-old college student named Mari who chooses to stay out all night, leading to unexpected encounters and situations. Through alternating chapters, the narrative also delves into the life of Mari's sister, Eri, who remains in a mysterious sleep. Murakami's writing style is described as dreamlike, with elements of magical realism that create a sense of detachment and introspection among the characters.
Through the eyes of a high-flying night bird, we take in the scene from midair. In our broad sweep, the city looks like a single gigantic creature—or more like a single collective entity created by ma...2004•260 pages - #4
Save:A fast, chilling, and emotionally charged novella - perfect if you want a visceral horror experience in one sitting, especially if you’re intrigued (or horrified) by complex mother-daughter relationships.
This Is Where We Talk Things Out by Caitlin Marceau is a gripping novella about a woman named Miller and her troubled relationship with her estranged mother, Sylvie. The plot centers around a weekend trip to an isolated cabin, where Miller intends to mend the broken ties with her mother. However, things take a dark turn as the cabin is filled with unsettling reminders of Miller's childhood and Sylvie exhibits increasingly concerning behavior, revealing her narcissistic tendencies and obsession with the past. The story is laden with eerie moments that escalate into a tense and disturbing atmosphere, reminiscent of horror classics like Misery.
The writing style of Marceau is praised for its smooth pacing and vivid descriptions, making the chilling setting come alive. Many readers find the dynamics between the characters to be both relatable and anxiety-inducing, thanks to the realistic portrayal of their complex relationship. Though some anticipate the story's twists, they still find it engaging and packed with emotional intensity. Overall, This Is Where We Talk Things Out delivers a deep exploration of familial trauma and psychological horror in a concise format that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.
August 2022 - #5
Save:An eerie, original spin on the colony-on-an-alien-world tale that doubles as a clever study of human society. Not for everyone, but if you love thoughtful sci-fi that lingers after the last page, give it a try.
'Dark Eden' by Chris Beckett is a science fiction novel set on a planet where it is constantly dark, illuminated only by natural sources like glowing flora and fauna. The story follows a colony of humans, descendants of stranded astronauts, who are divided between traditionalists waiting for rescue from Earth and young individuals seeking to explore and adapt to their harsh environment. The narrative provides a nuanced exploration of motivations and conflicts within the colony, focusing on themes of survival, adaptation, and societal change.
The book presents a unique and intriguing world-building concept, depicting a society rooted in tradition and religious fanaticism, struggling with dwindling resources and the need for change. The plot unfolds with a mix of individual voices, showcasing shades of grey in characters' motives and actions, adding depth to the conflict between the old ways and the push for progress. Beckett's writing style, though initially challenging for some readers, immerses them in the dark and mysterious atmosphere of the alien planet, creating a compelling backdrop for the characters' struggles and decisions.
Hmmph, hmmph, hmmph, went the trees all around us, pumping and pumping hot sap from under ground. Hmmmmmmm, went forest. And from over Peckhamway came the sound of axes from Batwing group. They were s...2012•453 pages - #6
Save:A one-of-a-kind, haunting read: bizarre, prophetic, and deeply unsettling. If you crave moody, thought-provoking horror that lingers long after you close the book, this is worth your time.
The Twenty Days of Turin by Giorgio De Maria is a dark and atmospheric novel that mirrors society in the twenty-first century, combining elements of horror, magical realism, isolation, paranoia, and monsters. The story revolves around an abandoned library in Turin, where citizens deposit their diaries and thoughts, leading to shared psychotic insomnia and a disturbing connection between the library, the writers, and the evil forces unleashed in the city. As the narrative unfolds, the book delves into themes of urban living, history, identity, and the consequences of baring one's soul to the public.
IN A FAR-FLUNG CORNER of northwestern Italy, girdled by industrial haze, flanked by a crescent of jagged Alps, stands Turin, grandiose necropolis of a town. Baroque palaces, shaded neoclassical arcade...1977•224 pages - #7
Save:A haunting, quietly intense classic where atmosphere, inner turmoil, and cultural friction take center stage - best for readers who enjoy moody, character-focused storytelling.
Black Narcissus by Rumer Godden is a tale set in the Himalayas where a group of Anglican nuns strive to establish a school and dispensary in a former palace of the General's harem. The novel explores the challenges faced by the nuns as they are haunted both physically and spiritually by the grandeur of the mountains and the cultural differences they encounter. The book delves into the clash of cultures, the psychological effects of their pious living, and the dark desires that surface among the nuns as they struggle to impose their beliefs in a remote and exotic location.
The story follows Sister Clodagh and her fellow sisters as they navigate the complexities of their new environment, dealing with local traditions, superstitions, and their own internal conflicts. The narrative is rich in imagery, portraying the majestic Himalayan landscape and the interactions between the nuns and the inhabitants of the region. As the nuns face challenges and tragedies, the novel explores themes of forbidden passions, cultural clashes, and the inevitable consequences of trying to impose Western ideals in a foreign land.
Last year it had been called St Saviour’s School, but, when the Brotherhood left after only staying five months, it lapsed into the Palace again. The natives had never called it anything else; they ha...January 1939•283 pages - #8
Save:A smart, atmospheric mystery for lovers of richly written, traditional detective novels. Not a quick read, but a satisfying one if you appreciate literary style and intricate plotting.
In Death in Holy Orders by P.D. James, readers are taken to a small seminary on the English coast where the murder of a seminary student sets off a chain of events, leading to multiple deaths and a complex investigation conducted by Inspector Adam Dalgliesh. The novel delves into the intricate lives of the students, teaching clergy, and staff at the seminary, each with their own intrigues and secrets, while offering a glimpse into the introspective and poetic nature of Dalgliesh. With a gripping plot, detailed character development, and a setting that adds depth to the story, the book takes readers on a journey through a murder mystery that unfolds against the backdrop of ecclesiastical waters and dark undercurrents of society.
Father Martin said, “Writing it down as if it were fiction, as if you were standing outside yourself, watching it happen, remembering what you did, what you felt, as if it were all happening to someon... - #9
Save:A haunting, atmospheric gothic mystery with a delightfully odd narrator - Florence & Giles is clever and memorable, but its peculiar style and vague ending may leave you more puzzled than satisfied.
"Florence & Giles" by John Harding is a gothic novel set in the 1890s, narrated by a 12-year-old girl named Florence who lives in a large mansion with her younger brother Giles and their servants. The story revolves around Florence's fear of the governess, Miss Taylor, whom she suspects of being a supernatural being with ill intentions towards Giles. The book is a reimagining of Henry James' "The Turn of the Screw," with a unique writing style that includes Florence's own vocabulary and narration. As the plot unfolds, dark secrets, family mysteries, and eerie occurrences add to the tension and atmosphere of the story, keeping readers engaged till the unexpected twist at the end.
It is a curious story I have to tell, one not easily absorbed and understood, so it is fortunate I have the words for the task. If I say so myself, who probably shouldn’t, for a girl my age I am very...2010•272 pages - #10
Save:Brutal, addictive, and not for the faint of heart - this is a wickedly twisted, slow-burn academy romance perfect for those who like their stories gritty and their antiheroes darker than night.
"Kings of Quarantine" in the series "Brutal Boys of Everlake Prep" by Caroline Peckham is a dark and twisted story set in an academy where Tatum, the protagonist, is targeted by the ruthless Night Keepers who bully her to extremes. The plot revolves around Tatum being cornered into taking the Night Bond, leading to her soul being controlled by the Night Keepers. The story unfolds through alternating POVs of Tatum and the boys, showcasing their power struggles and Tatum's resilience amidst the brutal treatment. As Tatum navigates the challenges of the academy, she forms alliances and plots against the Night Keepers, ultimately leading to a dramatic turn of events involving a deadly virus and a fight for survival.
The writing style of the book is described as well-done, pulling readers in from the beginning to the end. Despite the darker themes and twisted characters, Tatum's strength and determination shine through, adding depth to the narrative. The slow burn development of relationships and tension, along with unexpected twists and turns, contribute to a captivating and immersive reading experience.
I lay still in the ice white, eight hundred thread count organic cotton sheets that surrounded me and fought the urge to grind my teeth to dust as I waited for six am to tick the fuck around. This was...April 2020•610 pages
