Books matching: quiet haunting novel
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- #1
'The Lake' by Banana Yoshimoto is a quiet and haunting novel that delves into the lives of two individuals, Chihiro and Nakajima, who form an unlikely bond. Through subtle and delicate storytelling, the author explores their past traumas and struggles, portraying a deep connection between the characters. The narrative unfolds gently, focusing on character emotions rather than a driven plot, set against the backdrop of a mysterious and engaging romance.
I kept waking up and then, relieved that she hadn’t stopped breathing, going back to sleep. The floor was dustier than you’d expect in a hospital, and I lay staring at a ball of lint that was always i... - #2
'The House Next Door' by Anne Rivers Siddons is a haunting tale of a malevolent house that brings out the worst in its inhabitants. Set in a suburban Atlanta neighborhood, the story follows the Kennedy family and their neighbors as they witness mysterious and horrifying events unfold in the modern house next door. As families come and go, tragedy strikes each one, leading Colquitt and Walter Kennedy to uncover the evil force dwelling within the walls of the house. Written in a suspenseful and eerie style, the book explores themes of fear, unease, and the consequences of living near a house that seems to feed on the people around it.
The narrative is filled with tension and a sense of escalating eerieness, drawing readers in with its atmospheric horror elements. Through the eyes of the characters, readers experience the chilling effects of the haunted house, where deepest desires manifest and nightmares come true. Siddons' skillful writing captures the psychological terror of the situation, keeping readers on edge and anxious as they navigate the malevolent forces at play in 'The House Next Door.'
CLAIRE SWANSON from two doors up was the first one to tell me about the Harralson house. She and Roger have lived in the yellow Dutch colonial for years, far longer than we’ve been in ours. Claire is ... - #3
'You Should Have Left' by Daniel Kehlmann is a horror novella that follows an unnamed screenwriter who takes his wife and young daughter to an isolated Airbnb in the mountains to work on his screenplay. As the narrator's journal entries progress, he begins to experience strange and unsettling events in the house, leading to a slow descent into darkness and madness. The story unfolds through a mix of eerie occurrences, psychological tension, and a creeping sense of unease, all culminating in a unique and unexpected ending that leaves readers questioning reality.
The book is narrated in a journal entry format, providing a first-person perspective that immerses readers into the protagonist's deteriorating mental state and the eerie atmosphere of the isolated mountain house. Through a blend of mundane details, supernatural elements, and subtle hints of horror, 'You Should Have Left' weaves a tale of psychological suspense and existential dread, exploring themes of isolation, paranoia, and the blurred lines between reality and imagination.
Jana and Ella are riding a tandem bike along a country road. The sun is shining, the stalks are swaying, cheerful music. Ella at the helm, Jana spreads her arms. Close-up: She blinks happily into the ... - #4
'On Chesil Beach' by Ian McEwan is a poignant and intimate portrayal of a newlywed couple, Edward and Florence, on their wedding night in 1962. The book delves into the complexities of their relationship, exploring themes of miscommunication, fear, and societal expectations. Through a series of memories and unfolding events, the author captures the emotional turmoil and struggles of the characters as they navigate their feelings and confront their past traumas. The writing style is described as beautiful, evocative, and deeply affecting, showcasing McEwan's ability to delve into the minds of ordinary people and depict their innermost thoughts and emotions with precision.
They were young, educated, and both virgins on this, their wedding night, and they lived in a time when a conversation about sexual difficulties was plainly impossible. But it is never easy. They had ... - #5
Watch Over Me by Nina LaCour is a haunting and emotional story about Mila, an eighteen-year-old who has aged out of the foster care system and takes a job teaching at an isolated farm on the Northern California coast. The farm is run by a couple who have adopted numerous foster children and employ interns, all of whom have experienced trauma. The story delves into themes of loss, grief, healing, and acceptance, with ghosts both literal and metaphorical playing a significant role in the narrative. The book alternates between Mila's past and present, creating an eerie and atmospheric setting that adds depth to the storytelling.
Mila's journey of self-discovery and healing is beautifully portrayed through the atmospheric writing style of Nina LaCour. The author skillfully weaves together elements of magical realism, gothic traditions, and found family dynamics to create a poignant allegory about overcoming past traumas. The book explores themes of personal growth, friendship, and facing one's inner demons in a way that resonates with readers of all ages.
ON THE MORNING OF MY INTERVIEW I slept until eight, went downstairs to the kitchen, and poured myself the last of the coffee. I stood at the counter, watching out the window as I sipped, and then push... - #6
'Revolutionary Road' by Richard Yates is a poignant portrayal of a young married couple, Frank and April Wheeler, living in the suburbs in the early 1960s. The book delves into the struggles and disillusionment of the couple, as they grapple with unfulfilled dreams, marital discord, and societal pressures. The narrative captures the essence of the time, showcasing the realistic struggles of the characters and the slow unraveling of their hopes and aspirations. Through subtle and honest storytelling, Yates skillfully explores themes of existential despair, failed aspirations, and the complexities of human relationships, creating a timeless and thought-provoking piece of fiction.
The writing style in 'Revolutionary Road' is highly praised for its raw honesty, emotional depth, and impeccable character development. Readers appreciate Yates' ability to create vivid and relatable characters, whose inner turmoil and conflicts resonate with authenticity. The book offers a stark portrayal of suburban life in the 1950s, highlighting the facade of conformity and the underlying discontentment that lurks beneath the surface. With a compelling narrative that unfolds with emotional intensity, 'Revolutionary Road' presents a powerful commentary on the struggles of marriage, identity, and the pursuit of happiness in a stifling societal framework.
THE FINAL DYING SOUNDS of their dress rehearsal left the Laurel Players with nothing to do but stand there, silent and helpless, blinking out over the footlights of an empty auditorium. They hardly da...