In previous years, I’ve taken Blogtober as an opportunity to highlight some books in horror subgenres (or horror related genres) that I’ve really liked. I had a look, and couldn’t find if I’ve done Gothic – it’s possible I have, but it seemed like a good chance to highlight some of my 5 star gothic reads anyway.
Five 5-Star Gothic Reads
We Have Always Lived in the Castle
Shirley Jackson
Format: Audiobook
Published: September 21st, 1962
Age: Adult
Review
This wonderfully atmospheric book really gets under your skin. There’s a strong mystery surrounding Merricat and her remaining family, and initially it’s like peering through a fog as you try to work things out, but they unfold really well, and Jackson’s prose is suitably unnerving.
Mexican Gothic
Silvia Moreno-Garcia
Format: Audiobook
Published: June 30th, 2020
Age: Adult
Review
I loved this – I really love seeing more gothic coming from outside England & the US, and Moreno-Garcia does a great job with it here. Set in 1950s Mexico, it feels different while retaining many of the ‘trappings’ of the Gothic that place it firmly alongside the subgenre as a whole.
Welsh Gothic
Jane Aaron
Format: Hardback
Published: May 15th, 2013
Age: Adult
Review
I adored this book – an excellent guide to how gothic literature has involved in Wales, as well as gothic literature about Wales. A really interesting dive into the subgenre.
The Monster Collection
Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley, Bram Stoker, Robert Louis Stevenson
Format: Audiobook
Published: October 24th, 2017
Age: Adult
Review
I really like revisiting books in different formats, though at the time I read this I hadn’t read Frankenstein, but had read the other two. The narrators do such a brilliant job with the material. And of course, these are some of the most well known gothic tales, though three distinct, unique stories. A great way to experience these classics of the genre.
Gallant
Victoria Schwab
Format: Paperback
Published: March 1st, 2022
Age: Young Adult
Review
I loved this book! I adore Schwab as a writer anyway, and this gothic horror blends in the fantasy really well, as well as fully making Gallant a real, breathing character within the book. It’s something I love seeing in gothic when done well, and the way Olivia moves through the story, uncovering secrets, draws you along with her.
Are you a fan of the gothic? What are some of your favourite gothic novels? Or does your preference lean towards other types of horror? Do let me know – I’d love to hear from you!
Unwrapping Words 