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After Elspeth's death from leukemia, her twin nieces, Julia and Valentina, move into her flat in London where Elspeth herself is trapped as a ghost. They take up with the other residents including Elsepth's boyfriend, Robert, downstairs, and Martin, gripped by OCD upstairs. Everyone begins to come undone. The characters are completely engaging but what kept me reading was the deft handling of the plot twists and turns and the teases the author hands out that hint at Elspeth's secret, the reason she's estranged from her identical twin sister for more than 20 years. The story immerses the reader into the lives of a family and their friends that include two sets of identical twins. Most of the action takes place in London near Highgate Cemetery where we meet very English characters who are juxtaposed with the American twins who have been brought up in the United States.
If you liked Her Fearful Symmetry, here are the top 100 books to read next:
- #1
'The Canterville Ghost' by Oscar Wilde is a humorous and charming story about an American family, the Otis family, who moves into a haunted English house. The ghost of the house, Sir Simon, tries to scare the family but fails as they are not afraid of him. Instead, the family turns the tables on the ghost and starts playing tricks on him. The story explores themes of humor, satire, and the clash between American practicality and British traditions, all written in Wilde's witty and engaging style.
The plot revolves around the interactions between the Canterville ghost, Sir Simon, and the Otis family, showcasing how the family's unconventional approach to dealing with the ghost leads to comedic and heartwarming moments. Oscar Wilde's writing style in this novella combines humor, social commentary, and a touch of sentimentality, creating a light-hearted yet thought-provoking narrative that challenges traditional ghost story tropes and offers a fresh perspective on the supernatural.
When Mr. Hiram B. Otis, the American Minister, bought Canterville Chase, every one told him he was doing a very foolish thing, as there was no doubt at all that the place was haunted. Indeed, Lord Can... - #2
'Sleep Pale Sister' by Joanne Harris is a gothic novel set in Victorian England, telling the story of a painter, Henry Chester, who marries his favorite model, Effie. The book explores themes of lust, drugs, madness, revenge, and murder, with a narrative that is described as dreamlike and murky. The plot unfolds through the perspectives of various characters, revealing dark secrets, obsessions, and a chilling high gothic tale.
DON’T LOOK AT me that way – I can’t bear it! You’re thinking how much I have changed. You see the young man in the picture, his clear, pale brow, curling dark hair, his untroubled eyes – and you wonde... - #3
"The Evil Seed" by Joanne M. Harris is a debut novel that delves into the world of vampires with a gothic aura and slow creeping suspense. The story is filled with intricate and interesting characters, eerie creepiness, and a clever mixing of viewpoints. Despite being a vampire story, the book is described as beautifully written and complex, with a time frame between two stories that is handled well. The narrative shifts from past to present, creating an atmosphere that is extremely menacing and explicit in its violence and gore.
The plot of "The Evil Seed" revolves around Alice, the protagonist, who experiences odd and clumsy plot devices that showcase the author's youth in writing. The story unfolds with mysterious phone calls, unexpected visits, and eerie occurrences that keep the reader on edge. Despite some flaws in the writing style, the book captures a haunting atmosphere, wondrous dream-like horror, and an ending that leaves readers questioning reality.
- #4
'The Time Traveler's Wife' by Audrey Niffenegger is a unique love story that intertwines the lives of Henry, a man who involuntarily travels through time, and Clare, his wife who meets him at different stages of his life. The narrative is structured around their meetings in both real time and time travel, creating a complex yet emotionally engaging storyline. The author skillfully explores themes of love, loss, and relationships through the lens of time travel, offering a mix of romance and science fiction elements. Readers are taken on a journey through different timelines, experiencing the joys and sorrows that come with the challenges of time travel.
The writing style of 'The Time Traveler's Wife' is praised for its emotional depth and intricate storytelling. The novel alternates between the perspectives of Henry and Clare, providing insight into their thoughts and feelings as they navigate the complexities of their unusual relationship. The author's ability to capture the essence of love and longing, along with vivid descriptions of Chicago and the characters' emotional journeys, immerses readers in a world where time is fluid and love transcends all boundaries.
Clare: The first time it happens Henry is away. It's the eighth week of the pregnancy. The baby is the size of a plum, has a face and hands and a beating heart. It is early evening, early summer, and ... - #5
The Ghosts of Thorwald Place by Helen Power is a gripping paranormal mystery that follows the story of Rachel, a ghost trapped in the building where she was brutally murdered. Through her perspective, readers uncover the dark secrets and mysteries of her neighbors, as well as her own past leading up to her death. The novel seamlessly weaves between the present and the past, keeping readers on the edge of their seats as they delve deeper into the eerie and intriguing world of Thorwald Place.
The book is a unique blend of ghost story, murder mystery, and detective narrative, offering a fresh and captivating take on the genre. The author, Helen Power, skillfully crafts a suspenseful plot filled with twists and turns, intricate character dynamics, and a haunting atmosphere that lingers long after the final page is turned. Readers are taken on a thrilling journey alongside Rachel as she navigates the afterlife, unravels the mysteries surrounding her death, and uncovers the hidden truths of those around her.
I frown. It’s not uncommon for callers to make grand, sweeping statements about murder or conspiracies and then recant moments later. But there’s something different about this caller. There’s somethi... - #6
'The Parent Trap' by Erich Kastner is a classic children's novel that tells the story of two identical twin girls, Luise Palfy and Lottie Körner, who discover their true relationship at a German girls' summer camp after being separated when their parents divorced. The book follows the twins as they switch places to reunite with their respective parents, leading to heartwarming and adventurous moments. The writing style of the book is described as lovely and sweet, making it an engaging read for children and adults alike.
The book 'The Parent Trap' inspired the hit Disney film and its remake, with readers mentioning how the story differs from the movies but still captivates audiences with its charming narrative and sweet illustrations. Despite some criticisms of the translation into English, the book is commended for its timeless storytelling and the way it captures the essence of childhood innocence and sibling bonds.
- #7
'Sparrow Hill Road' by Seanan McGuire follows the adventures of Rose Marshall, a hitchhiker ghost who died on her prom night. The book is a collection of stories about Rose's afterlife, where she tries to save people and outwit the man who killed her. The narrative weaves through different types of ghosts, non-human beings, and the hauntingly beautiful American highway. The writing style is described as touching, melancholic, and lyrical, capturing the essence of ghostly tales with a mix of sadness and poignancy.
Where do urban legends really come from? Everyone knows the one about the girl who asks for a ride home; the one who turns out to have been dead all along. But where did she come from? Who was she? An... - #8
"The Ghost and Mrs. Muir" by R.A. Dick is a charming and heartwarming story about a young widow named Lucy Muir who decides to take charge of her life by moving into Gull Cottage, despite the objections of those around her. The titular ghost, Captain Gregg, initially disapproves of Lucy's presence but eventually forms a close friendship with her, offering advice and support as she navigates through life, love, and independence. The story follows Lucy's journey of self-discovery, empowerment, and resilience, intertwined with the unique bond she shares with the ghost of Captain Gregg.
The narrative style of the book is described as quick, easy, and engaging, with a focus on character development and the evolving relationship between Lucy and Captain Gregg. The story highlights themes of independence, friendship, and personal growth, set against the backdrop of a haunted cottage by the sea. Readers appreciate the simplicity and charm of the storytelling, as well as the timeless quality of the characters and their interactions throughout the decades.
Mrs. Muir was a little woman. Every one was agreed upon that point. Where others were merely referred to as Mrs. Brown and Mrs. Smith, she was invariably spoken of as “little Mrs. Muir” or “dear littl... 'Himself' by Jess Kidd is a captivating blend of magical realism, mystery, and dark comedy set in the small Irish village of Mulderrig. The story follows Mahony, a charming young man with the ability to communicate with the dead, as he returns to his birthplace to uncover the truth about his mother's disappearance. Alongside a cast of quirky characters, both living and dead, Mahony navigates through secrets, murder, and dark moments, all while embracing the enchanting and humorous writing style of Jess Kidd.
For Mulderrig is a place like no other. Here the colours are a little bit brighter and the sky is a little bit wider. Here the trees are as old as the mountains and a clear river runs into the sea. Pe...- #10
Rooms by Lauren Oliver is a ghost story with a unique twist, where the ghosts become part of the house and observe the living occupants. The book follows the Walker family as they gather in their old house after the death of the patriarch, Richard Walker. The narrative weaves between the perspectives of both the living family members and the ghosts haunting the house, revealing family secrets, unresolved issues, and the complexities of human emotions.
Minna is changed, but she is still Minna: the tangle of long hair, now lightened; the haughty curves of her cheekbones; the eyes, vivid, ocean colored. She is just as beautiful as ever—maybe even more...