Top 8 Victorian Gothic Novels You Must Read
Book RaiderStep into the shadows, dear reader, as we embark on a dark and mesmerizing journey back to the Victorian era; an age of bristling moustaches, bone-crushing corsets, and some eerily captivating literature. Forget the Instagram-friendly minimalism of our era. Victorian gothic novels are your healthy dose of over-the-top drama, labyrinths of psychological terror and opulent descriptions that you, faithful reader, must absolutely savor.
We're talking fog-filled graveyards, crumbling castles haunted by the ghosts of the past, damsels locked in towers (sadly, no dragons, though)...basically all the deliciously melodramatic tropes that make you want to curl up in a plush armchair with a blanket and a cup of piping hot tea. So, dust off your monocle and straighten your waistcoat. We’re about to dive into ten of the best Victorian gothic novels that you simply can't die without reading (preferably with the lights on).
The Essex Serpent
by Sarah Perry
Why The Essex Serpent is on this list: What's more Victorian Gothic than a mythological sea serpent and a headstrong widow juggling exploration with superstition? Top hats off to Perry. She encapsulates the era and genre perfectly.
The Essex Serpent unfurls in the 1890s, introducing us to Cora Seaborne, a recent widow with a sharp mind and open heart. Instead of mourning, Cora is more thrilled by the chance to break free from London and hunt for fossils in Essex, where a local legend about a serpent has everyone in knots. With a huge cast of characters, this novel blends scientific discovery with supernatural dread in a distinctly Victorian way. It's like a charmingly dark love letter to curiosity and friendship.
What readers like: Readers rave about Perry's exquisite writing style, the depth of her characters, and her skill at creating a palpable sense of atmosphere. It’s not the kind of novel that will jump-scare you out of your armchair, but it produces a slow-burn dread that will keep you thinking. People also love that Perry’s twisting story isn’t afraid to challenge the norms of the Victorian era, bringing a freshness to the genre. It’s like a cup of Earl Grey tea with a dash of absinthe — familiar, yet unnervingly thrilling.
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The Crimson Petal and the White
by Michel Faber
Why The Crimson Petal and the White is on this list: If you're a fan of the gritty drama and elaborate storytelling emblematic of the Victorian Gothic genre, this book is a must read. It's packed with intricate plot twists, macabre undertones and a chilling romantic narrative that mirrors the tumultuous, and often perilous, social dynamics of the Victorian era.
Set in the heart of 1870s London, the story follows a genius yet world-weary prostitute named Sugar who ascends from the grimy underbelly of Victorian society to become a powerful woman of substance. As she navigates through the twisted hierarchy of the London elite, she gets embroiled in a bizarre love triangle that threatens to blur the lines between love, lust, loyalty and obsession.
What readers like: Readers are generally thrilled by Michel Faber's attention to detail, authentic depiction of the era, and the exquisite character development- Sugar in particular. Plus, the wickedly smart and darkly humorous writing style engages readers, leaving them eagerly turning pages to know what's next.
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The Shadow the Wind
by Carlos Ruiz Zafon
Why The Shadow the Wind is on this list: Although it's not technically Victorian era, 'The Shadow of the Wind' embodies the rich atmospheric setting, intricacies and dark romance found in the core of Victorian Gothic literature.
This riveting narrative intertwines a story of love, revenge and mystery in Catalonia's post-war era. The young Daniel Sempere picks a book titled 'The Shadow of the Wind' written by Julian Carax from the Cemetery of Forgotten Books, and quickly becomes entranced by the novel. However, his fascination turns into trepidation when he learns that someone has been systematically burning every single copy of Carax's books.
What readers like: Readers love the spiraling mystery, a little touch of magical realism and a hauntingly beautiful storytelling. The book's bleak settings give it a gloomy but alluring aura, attracting readers who enjoy a little Victorian-era-inspired cloudiness in their stories.
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The Ghost Writer
by John Harwood
Why The Ghost Writer is on this list: A delicious collage of classic Victorian Gothic elements - the haunted house, the séances, the spiritualists, the dark secrets, and yes, the chilling ghost tales - The Ghost Writer is a true representative of the genre.
The novel revolves around a young Australian lad, Gerard Freeman, who stumbles upon a haunting, century-old manuscript filled with spooky ghost stories. As Gerard delves deeper, he discovers an unsettling tie between the stories and his own life. Intricately woven with layers of spine-tingling suspense, the plot spins a web of past sins and ancient mysteries.
What readers like: Fans appreciate the gripping narrative that seamlessly blends reality and the supernatural, keeping them on edge. The atmospheric settings plunge readers into a creepy Victoriana while Harwood's eloquent storytelling calls for almost compulsory page-turning. It's a delectable treat for those who love a good scare with a dash of mystery.
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Fingersmith
by Sarah Waters
Why Fingersmith is on this list: For all of you Victorian Gothic fans, 'Fingersmith' is an absolute must-read. Sarah Waters intricately combines elements of the macabre, ambiguous identities, and mystery, all set in the gloomy backdrop of Victorian England.
'Fingersmith' is an electrifying tale of deceit, laced with unexpected turns. This book takes you on the journey of two young women, Sue and Maud, both caught in a web of thievery and con-artistry. As the plot unfolds, secrets untangle, identities blur, and what seemed straightforward is anything but.
What readers like: Readers absolutely adore the dark, atmospheric setting and the plot twists that keep you awake well past midnight. Most mention that the vivid and complex characters stick with you, even after finishing the book. Plus, the masterful storytelling of Sarah Waters will transport you straight into Gothic Victorian England - minus the uncomfortable corset, of course.
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The Thirteenth Tale
by Diane Setterfield
Why The Thirteenth Tale is on this list: It's got everything you'd expect from a good Victorian Gothic novel, and then some. Think dark family secrets, brooding atmosphere, haunted houses, and twins – because who doesn't love the spooky twin trope?
The Thirteenth Tale is a modern take on the Victorian Gothic genre where literature's favorite enfant terrible, Vida Winter, decides to finally spill her life story. But, just like a Russian nesting doll, within that story, there's another story. And within that story, you guessed it, there's another story. This intriguing narrative revels in the eerieness of the past and the unraveling of deep-seated secrets.
What readers like: Apart from the beautiful writing, readers have fallen in love with Setterfield's multi-layered storytelling. The mystery and suspense keep readers hooked right until the end, where all is revealed in an unexpected twist. And of course, let's not forget the trademark Gothic creepiness that makes one want to read this book with a flashlight under the blanket.
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The Silent Companions
by Laura Purcell
Why The Silent Companions is on this list: The Silent Companions perfectly embodies the atmospheric and bone-chilling charm of Victorian Gothic novels. With its creaky haunted house, eerie companions, and bittersweet gloom of th-century England – it's like having a chat with the ghost of Queen Victoria herself.
Our protagonist Elsie, pregnant and recently widowed, is sent to her husband's decrepit country estate to deliver her baby. Imagine her surprise when she encounters 'the companions', wooden figures that resemble people she knows... a bit too closely. As the story unfolds, these silent figures reveal more than Elsie ever bargained for. Expect many a sleepless night as you journey through twisted madness, the haunt of shadows, and intimidating history.
What readers like: Readers relish the blend of gothic horror with a whisper of mystery. They adore the wonderfully old-school, spooky elements that eventually build up to a wicked crescendo of suspense. Laura Purcell's artful storytelling has the power to keep you clutching the book until wee hours. Oh, let's not forget the plot twists - imagine the ‘aha moment’ when you discover the cat in the microwave...but wait, they didn’t have microwaves in Victorian times... go figure!
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The Historian
by Elizabeth Kostova
Why The Historian is on this list: Even though The Historian isn't strictly a Victorian Gothic novel since it was published in 2005, it is heavily influenced by Victorian Gothic themes and styles. Mixing folklore and history, it dives deep into the dark, twisted tales of Dracula, that legendary character who has been chilling the spines of readers since the Victorian era.
The Historian is a breathtaking journey across continents and through time, as a young woman digs deep into her family's dark history. From the Netherlands to Istanbul, she uncovers the unsettling truth about her father's past and the legendary vampire count. This book is so atmospheric and hauntingly beautiful; it's bound to grab you and refuse to let go until the very last page.
What readers like: Fans rave about Kostova's ability to weave a deeply layered story that crosses generations, adding a touch of historical conspiracy to the mix. The book's meticulous historical details will thrill any history buff, while her rich, evocative descriptions of places keep armchair travelers nicely entertained. And, of course, the darker and spookier elements offer an appealing indulgence for any Gothic fiction lover.
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