A Distinguished Collection of Dark Tales


Book Description

The knife was in reaching distance near my right foot. The hilt was in the air towards the ceiling. How is it I could be insane when it is my own intellect that allows my understanding and articulation of the savage and diabolical? Who could be writing this piece, and whom was I listening to? Was it at length my own imagination? They are notoriously motivated to have the title doctor, a prefix in front of their name, like honorable sir, doesn't allow them contentment. Is this the reason (doctor, master, prince) a man puts forth his hand to the plow? Whose words are in my mouth? With a flair for the grisly and macabre, Wayne Fabiano welcomes readers to his banquet of dread. The winemaker whose secret ingredient requires murder, the preacher whose sins will surely find him out, and the madman who hatches a perfect plan to escape the asylum: these characters and more populate this collection that simultaneously fascinates and horrifies. As the characters slowly spiral into insanity, the reader cannot help but be drawn into their world of bloodshed, madness, and death. Wayne is clearly familiar with the gothic horror tradition, which he channels here. A Distinguished Collection of Dark Tales will have you sitting on the edge of your seat, leaving the light on at night, and questioning your own assumptions of reality and sanity.




Dark Tales


Book Description

For the first time in one volume, a collection of Shirley Jackson’s scariest stories, with a foreword by PEN/Hemingway Award winner Ottessa Moshfegh After the publication of her short story “The Lottery” in the New Yorker in 1948 received an unprecedented amount of attention, Shirley Jackson was quickly established as a master horror storyteller. This collection of classic and newly reprinted stories provides readers with more of her unsettling, dark tales, including the “The Possibility of Evil” and “The Summer People.” In these deliciously dark stories, the daily commute turns into a nightmarish game of hide and seek, the loving wife hides homicidal thoughts and the concerned citizen might just be an infamous serial killer. In the haunting world of Shirley Jackson, nothing is as it seems and nowhere is safe, from the city streets to the crumbling country pile, and from the small-town apartment to the dark, dark woods. There’s something sinister in suburbia. For more than seventy years, Penguin has been the leading publisher of classic literature in the English-speaking world. With more than 1,700 titles, Penguin Classics represents a global bookshelf of the best works throughout history and across genres and disciplines. Readers trust the series to provide authoritative texts enhanced by introductions and notes by distinguished scholars and contemporary authors, as well as up-to-date translations by award-winning translators.




A Tale Dark & Grimm


Book Description

In this mischievous and utterly original debut, Hansel and Gretel walk out of their own story and into eight other classic Grimm-inspired tales. As readers follow the siblings through a forest brimming with menacing foes, they learn the true story behind (and beyond) the bread crumbs, edible houses, and outwitted witches. Fairy tales have never been more irreverent or subversive as Hansel and Gretel learn to take charge of their destinies and become the clever architects of their own happily ever after.




DARK TALES (With Original Illustrations)


Book Description

This carefully edited collection has been designed and formatted to the highest digital standards and adjusted for readability on all devices. Excerpts: "I am afraid this ghost story will bear a very faded aspect when transferred to paper. Whatever effect it had on you, or whatever charm it retains in your memory, is, perhaps, to be attributed to the favorable circumstances under which it was originally told.” (The Ghost of Doctor Harris) "The aspect of the venerable mansion has always affected me like a human countenance, bearing the traces not merely of outward storm and sunshine, but expressive also, of the long lapse of mortal life, and accompanying vicissitudes that have passed within.” (The House of the Seven Gables) American novelist and short story writer Nathaniel Hawthorne's (1804-1864) writing centers on New England, many works featuring moral allegories with a Puritan inspiration. His fiction works are considered to be part of the Romantic movement and, more specifically, Dark romanticism. His themes often centre on the inherent evil and sin of humanity, and his works often have moral messages and deep psychological complexity. Contents: Introduction: Biography of Nathaniel Hawthorne The House of the Seven Gables (A Novel) The Minister's Black Veil The Hollow of the Three Hills The White Old Maid Dr. Heidegger's Experiment The Birth-mark Young Goodman Brown Rappaccini's Daughter Roger Malvin's Burial The Artist of the Beautiful John Inglefield's Thanksgiving Wives of the Dead An Old Woman's Tale Antique Ring Graves and Goblins The Ghost of Doctor Harris Apparitions




Dark Tales: Collected Gothic Novels and Stories (Illustrated)


Book Description

Nathaniel Hawthorne's 'Dark Tales: Collected Gothic Novels and Stories' is a captivating compilation of haunting tales that delve into the dark depths of human nature. Written with a distinctively atmospheric and moody style, Hawthorne's work explores themes of guilt, sin, and the supernatural, creating an eerie and chilling ambiance for readers. The collection includes iconic works such as 'The House of the Seven Gables' and 'The Minister's Black Veil', showcasing Hawthorne's mastery of the Gothic genre and his ability to craft intricate and suspenseful narratives. Nathaniel Hawthorne, a prominent American writer of the 19th century, was known for his exploration of moral and psychological themes in his works. As a descendant of Puritan settlers, Hawthorne's background greatly influenced his writing, particularly his exploration of the dark side of human nature and the consequences of sin and guilt. 'Dark Tales' reflects Hawthorne's fascination with the complexities of the human psyche and the dualities of good and evil. For readers who enjoy immersive and thought-provoking Gothic literature, Nathaniel Hawthorne's 'Dark Tales' is a must-read. With its compelling narratives, rich symbolism, and haunting themes, this collection offers a glimpse into the dark and mysterious world of one of America's greatest literary figures.




The Birthmark (Psychological Thriller): A Dark Romantic Story on Obsession with Human Perfection From the Renowned American Author of "The Scarlet Letter", "The House with the Seven Gables" & "Twice-Told Tales" (Including Biography)


Book Description

This carefully crafted ebook: "The Birthmark (Psychological Thriller)" is formatted for your eReader with a functional and detailed table of contents. Excerpt: "One day, very soon after their marriage, Aylmer sat gazing at his wife with a trouble in his countenance that grew stronger until he spoke. "Georgiana," said he, "has it never occurred to you that the mark upon your cheek might be removed?" (The Birthmark) The Birthmark deals with the husband's deeply negative obsession of his wife's outer appearances and what does that entail for these two young couples. The birthmark represents various things throughout the story. Two of the main representations are imperfection and mortality. American novelist and short story writer Nathaniel Hawthorne's (1804-1864) writing centers on New England, many works featuring moral allegories with a Puritan inspiration. Hawthorne has also written a few poems which many people are not aware of. His works are considered to be part of the Romantic movement and, more specifically, Dark romanticism. His themes often centre on the inherent evil and sin of humanity, and his works often have moral messages and deep psychological complexity.




The Horror Beyond Life's Edge: 560+ Macabre Classics, Supernatural Mysteries & Dark Tales


Book Description

The Horror Beyond Life's Edge: 560+ Macabre Classics, Supernatural Mysteries & Dark Tales is a literary journey that transcends the commonplace, delving into the realms of the macabre, the supernatural, and the darkly mysterious. This anthology boasts a collection that spans a broad spectrum of literary styles, from gothic horror and eerie ghost stories to unsettling tales of the uncanny and supernatural investigations. The diversity and significance of the works included cannot be overstated, featuring standout pieces from the Victorian era to the early twentieth century, encapsulating the evolution of horror and mystery in literature. The anthology serves as a conduit to explore the depths of human fears, anxieties, and the unknown through a compendium of narratives that challenge the boundaries of imagination and reality. The contributing authors and editors of this collection represent a pantheon of literary giants, each bringing their unique voice and perspective to the overarching theme. From the psychological terror of Edgar Allan Poe to the cosmic horror of H.P. Lovecraft; from the gothic romance of the Brontë sisters to the social critiques of Charles Dickens and the pioneering science fiction of H.G. Wells; these authors collectively contribute to the rich tapestry of horror and supernatural literature. The anthology aligns with various historical, cultural, and literary movements, enriching the readers understanding by offering a myriad of lenses through which to view the complexities of fear, the supernatural, and the human condition. The Horror Beyond Life's Edge: 560+ Macabre Classics, Supernatural Mysteries & Dark Tales is an indispensable volume for readers seeking to immerse themselves in the breadth and depth of gothic, horror, and supernatural literature. This anthology offers a unique opportunity to explore a multiplicity of perspectives, themes, and narratives within a single tome. It is a call to readers to delve into the abyss of the macabre, to confront the shadows lurking at the edges of life, and to explore the diversity of human expression found in the confrontation with the unknown. For scholars, enthusiasts, and casual readers alike, this collection stands as a monumental testament to the enduring power and appeal of the horror and mystery genre.




The Sci-Fi Movie Guide


Book Description

From the trashy to the epic, from the classics to today's blockbusters, this cinefile’s guidebook reviews nearly 1,000 of the biggest, baddest, and brightest from every age and genre of cinematic science fiction! Once upon a time, science fiction was only in the future. It was the stuff of drive-ins and cheap double-bills. Then, with the ever-increasing rush of new, society-altering technologies, science fiction pushed its way to the present, and it busted out of the genre ghetto of science fiction and barged its way into the mainstream. What used to be mere fantasy (trips to the moon? Wristwatch radios? Supercomputers capable of learning?) are now everyday reality. Whether nostalgic for the future or fast-forwarding to the present, The Sci-Fi Movie Guide: The Universe of Film from Alien to Zardoz covers the broad and widening range of science-fiction movies. You’ll find more than just Star Wars, Star Trek, and Transformers, with reviews on many overlooked and under-appreciated gems and genres, such as ... Monsters! Pacific Rim, Godzilla, The Thing, Creature from the Black Lagoon Superheroes: Thor, Iron Man, X-Men, The Amazing Spider-man, Superman Dystopias: THX 1138, 1984, The Hunger Games Avant-garde masterpieces: Solaris, 2001, Brazil, The Man Who Fell to Earth Time travel: 12 Monkeys, The Time Machine, Time Bandits, Back to the Future Post-apocalyptic action: The Road Warrior, I Am Legend, Terminator Salvation Comedy: Dark Star, Mars Attacks!, Dr. Strangelove, The Adventures of Buckaroo Banzai Across the Eighth Dimension, Mystery Science Theater 3000 Aliens! The Day the Earth Stood Still, Close Encounters of the Third Kind, Contact, Invasion of the Body Snatchers, Signs Mad scientists! Frankenstein, The Invisible Man, The Abominable Dr. Phibes Shoot-em-ups: Aliens, Universal Soldier, Starship Troopers What the...?: Battlefield Earth, Prayer of the Rollerboys, Repo: The Genetic Opera, Tank Girl, The 10th Victim Animation: WALL-E, Akira, Ghost in the Shell Small budgets, big ideas: Donnie Darko, Primer, Sound of My Voice, Computer Chess Neglected greats: Things to Come, Children of Men Epics: Metropolis, Blade Runner, Cloud Atlas and many, many more categories and movies!! In addition to the nearly one thousand science fiction film reviews, this guide includes fascinating and fun Top-10 lists and sidebars that are designed to lead fans to similar titles they might not have known about. The Sci-Fi Movie Guide: The Universe of Film from Alien to Zardoz will help ensure that you will never again have to worry about what to watch next. Useful both as a handy resource or a fun romp through the film world of science fiction. It also includes a helpful bibliography and an extensive index, adding to its usefulness.




Silver Birch, Blood Moon


Book Description

Winner of the World Fantasy Award: New twists on classic fairy tales from Neil Gaiman, Patricia Briggs, Robin McKinley, Caitlín R. Kiernan, and more. Long ago, when we were children, our dreams were inspired by the fairy tales we heard at our mothers’ and grandmothers’ knees—stories of princesses and princes and witches and wondrous enchantments, by the Brothers Grimm and Hans Christian Andersen, and from the pages of 1001 Arabian Nights. But, as World Fantasy Award–winning editors Ellen Datlow and Terri Windling remind us, these stories were often tamed and sanitized versions. The originals were frequently darker—and in Silver Birch, Blood Moon, they turn darker still. Twenty-one modern Grimms and Andersens—masterful storytellers including Neil Gaiman, Nancy Kress, and Tanith Lee—now reinvent beloved bedtime stories for our time. The Sea Witch gets her say, relating the story of “The Little Mermaid” from her own point of view. “Thumbelina” becomes a tale of creeping horror, while a delightfully naughty spin is put on “The Emperor’s New Clothes.” Author Caitlín R. Kiernan transports Snow White to a dark, gritty, industrial urban setting, and Patricia Briggs details “The Price” of dealing with a royal and unrepentantly evil Rumpelstiltskin. Rich, provocative, and unabashedly adult, each of these tales is a modern treasure, reminding us that wishes have consequences and not all genies have our best interests at heart.




EDGAR ALLAN POE: 72 Short Stories and Novels & 80+ Poems; Including Essays, Letters & Biography (Illustrated)


Book Description

Edgar Allan Poe's collection of 72 short stories, novels, and over 80 poems, along with essays, letters, and biography, offers a comprehensive insight into the mind of this renowned American literary figure. Poe's unique blend of macabre themes, psychological depth, and intricate symbolism sets him apart as a pioneer of Gothic fiction and a master of the short story form. His hauntingly beautiful prose and melancholic tone create a sense of unease and suspense that captivates readers from start to finish. This illustrated edition allows readers to fully immerse themselves in Poe's world, appreciating both the words on the page and the visual depictions that accompany them. Edgar Allan Poe's personal struggles, including the loss of loved ones and battles with alcoholism, heavily influenced his writing and added a profound depth to his exploration of themes such as death, love, and madness. His ability to craft intricate plots and memorable characters reflects his keen understanding of human psychology and his fascination with the darker aspects of human nature. I highly recommend Edgar Allan Poe's collection to readers who appreciate gothic literature, psychological depth, and masterful storytelling. This comprehensive volume showcases Poe's diverse talents and offers a unique glimpse into the mind of one of America's most celebrated literary figures.