Author
Joseph Sheridan Le Fanu
1814-1873
Joseph Sheridan Le Fanu (1814-1873) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by Joseph Sheridan Le Fanu
Carmilla
"Carmilla" by Joseph Sheridan Le Fanu is a Gothic novella published in 1872. A foundational work of vampire literature that predated "Dracula" by 25 years, it tells the story of young Laura, who lives in an isolated Austrian castle. When the enigmatic Carmilla arrives after a carriage accident, the two girls form an intense friendship marked by romantic advances and unsettling mysteries. As young women in nearby towns begin dying from an unknown illness, Laura experiences disturbing nightmares and her health mysteriously declines.
Uncle Silas: A Tale of Bartram-Haugh
"Uncle Silas: A Tale of Bartram-Haugh" by Joseph Sheridan Le Fanu is a Victorian Gothic mystery-thriller novel published in 1864. Young heiress Maud Ruthyn finds herself orphaned and placed under the guardianship of her mysterious uncle Silas, whose reputation was darkened by a suspicious death at his isolated mansion, Bartram-Haugh. As strange events unfold and escape becomes impossible, Maud must navigate a web of sinister relatives, suspicious servants, and the frightening realization that her inheritance may put her life in danger.
The House by the Church-Yard
"The House by the Church-Yard" by Joseph Sheridan Le Fanu is a novel published in 1863 that combines mystery and historical fiction. Set in an 18th-century Irish village, the story begins when a skull bearing strange injuries is unearthed in a churchyard, sparking investigation into interconnected crimes and murders. Mervyn returns to Chapelizod to clear his wrongly convicted father's name, uncovering dark secrets involving mysterious figures and long-buried truths. Le Fanu weaves Gothic suspense with vivid portraits of Irish rural life, creating a haunting tale that influenced later writers.
The Cock and Anchor
"The Cock and Anchor" by Joseph Sheridan Le Fanu is a historical novel written in the mid-19th century. The story unfolds in old Dublin City and revolves around characters navigating the complexities of love, loyalty, and peril during a time of political unrest. Central to the narrative is Edmond O'Connor, a young gentleman whose adventures and encounters set the stage for broader themes of fidelity and honor in a changing world. At the start of the novel, readers are introduced to the titular inn, “The Cock and Anchor,” symbolizing a warm refuge amid the harshness of a stormy autumn night in Dublin. Edmond O’Connor arrives at the inn, having just escaped a near-robbery on his journey, seeking supper and comfort. He soon finds himself engaged in conversation with another traveler, whose mysterious presence hints at darker elements at play. As the night progresses, O’Connor’s backstory and connections are hinted at, particularly his ties to the soldier Richard O’Connor and the troubling past that may intertwine with the present. The initial chapters set a tone of suspense and intrigue, foreshadowing the challenges O'Connor will face in both love and allegiance.
The Purcell Papers — Volume 3
"The Purcell Papers — Volume 3" by Joseph Sheridan Le Fanu is a collection of short stories written in the late 19th century, renowned for weaving elements of the supernatural and psychological suspense. This volume is part of a multi-volume series associated with the fictional legacy of Father Francis Purcell, who narrates tales rich in Irish folklore, personal intrigue, and moral complexities. The characters are often drawn from rural Ireland, involving their struggles, superstitions, and sometimes supernatural encounters — a reflection of the times and the culture within which Le Fanu wrote. The opening of this volume introduces the story of Jim Sulivan, a character beleaguered by his volatile marriage to the beautiful but tempestuous Nell Gorman. Following a series of comical yet violent quarrels brought on by Nell's fierce temper, Jim finds himself roaming the snowy landscape late at night, leading to misunderstandings and misadventures, including the mistaken identification of a corpse. As Jim's story unfolds, the narrative juxtaposes humor and tragedy through Neill's rapid transition from widowhood to remarriage, ultimately weaving together themes of love, jealousy, and the humorous complexity of rural Irish life. The blend of both the mundane and the macabre sets the tone for the rest of the collection, inviting readers into a world where supernatural elements subtly influence everyday human dramas.
In a Glass Darkly, v. 1/3
"In a Glass Darkly, v. 1/3" by Joseph Sheridan Le Fanu is a collection of stories published in 1872. Presented as case files from occult detective Dr. Martin Hesselius, these five Gothic tales explore psychological terror and supernatural mysteries. From a clergyman haunted by a demonic monkey to a sea captain stalked by a sinister dwarf, each story delves into dark encounters. The collection includes "Carmilla," a pioneering vampire tale that predated Bram Stoker's "Dracula" by twenty-five years and influenced vampire literature for generations.
The Purcell Papers — Volume 1
"The Purcell Papers — Volume 1" by Joseph Sheridan Le Fanu is a collection of stories written during the mid-19th century. The work presents a series of narratives that explore themes of the supernatural, mystery, and the complexities of human emotion, drawing on Irish folklore and traditions. The initial tales are likely to feature intriguing characters such as parish priest Francis Purcell, who serves as a collector of local legends and is central to the telling of these stories. The opening of this collection introduces readers to the life and legacy of Joseph Sheridan Le Fanu through a detailed memoir that chronicles his early years, influences, and rise as a notable figure in Gothic fiction. Following this, the first story, "The Ghost and the Bone-setter," begins with Purcell discovering an engaging tale filled with rich Irish superstitions. This narrative hints at a blend of humor and horror, emphasizing the Irish cultural context through character dialogue and storytelling style. Academic interest in the collection may revolve around its depictions of the supernatural and the intricate interplay of folklore within the narratives, allowing readers to appreciate the social and historical implications embedded in Le Fanu's work.
The Purcell Papers — Volume 2
"The Purcell Papers — Volume 2" by Joseph Sheridan Le Fanu is a collection of Gothic stories written during the late 19th century. This volume continues to explore themes of mystery, suspense, and the supernatural, engaging readers with tales that intertwine the personal lives of various characters with haunting histories and dark secrets. At the start of this volume, the story "Passage in the Secret History of an Irish Countess" unfolds through the reflections of a woman recounting her early life and family dramas, particularly focusing on her father's mysterious past and the shadow of a murder that loomed over them. The narrative introduces Lady Margaret and hints at an impending danger as she navigates relationships with her uncle, Sir Arthur, and her cousin, Edward. As the tale progresses, various layers of family intrigue, social expectations, and potential villainy begin to emerge, setting the stage for a captivating exploration of morality and the human psyche intertwined with sinister gothic elements.
Checkmate
"Checkmate" by Joseph Sheridan Le Fanu is a novel likely written in the late 19th century. The story is set against a backdrop of an old family estate, Mortlake Hall, and introduces a cast of intriguing characters, notably Mr. Longcluse, a mysterious and somewhat sinister figure whose affections are captured by the beautiful Alice Arden. The narrative explores themes of love, jealousy, and the complexities of social relationships, alongside an air of suspense that hints at darker undertones. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Mortlake Hall, an imposing and melancholic estate, where Lady May Penrose engages in a lively conversation with the beautiful Alice Arden and her charming brother, Richard. However, the atmosphere shifts with the entrance of Mr. Longcluse, whose unsettling presence evokes curiosity and suspicion among the others. As they discuss recent events, including a shocking murder of a child in Thames Street, Mr. Longcluse's intriguing demeanor and mysterious background come into focus. The opening chapters set the stage for a narrative woven with secrets, desires, and the tension that arises as the characters navigate their intertwined fates.
The Wyvern mystery
"The Wyvern Mystery" by Joseph Sheridan Le Fanu is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story unfolds around the young character Alice Maybell, who is preparing to return to her home at Wyvern after visiting her aunt, grappling with love and family dynamics within the ancestral estate. The narrative hints at underlying tensions involving Alice’s relationships with the enigmatic Squire Fairfield and her circumstances that evoke both romance and mystery. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Alice Maybell, a pretty yet troubled young woman, as she bids farewell to her aunt before embarking on her journey home. Her mixed emotions are evident through her interactions, particularly her concern about the Squire’s disposition. Alice exhibits an unspoken anxiety about her life at Wyvern, with her thoughts lingering on someone named Ry, suggesting a romantic entanglement that complicates her situation. Additionally, the arrival of Squire Fairfield's sons puts Alice in a complex position, setting the stage for a tale that encompasses passion, secrecy, and the apprehensions of a young woman navigating her world and the expectations placed upon her. The opening chapters lay the groundwork for the unfolding mystery surrounding her relationships and the dynamics of the estate.
The Room in the Dragon Volant
"The Room in the Dragon Volant" by Joseph Sheridan Le Fanu is a novel likely written in the mid-19th century. This tale weaves mystery and romance through the adventures of the protagonist, Richard Beckett, a young English gentleman who finds himself embroiled in unexpected intrigue while traveling in post-Napoleonic Europe. As he journeys from Brussels to Paris, Beckett encounters a captivating yet enigmatic lady shrouded in mystery, hinting at deeper, potentially perilous connections. At the start of the novel, Richard Beckett is introduced as a spirited young man recently come into a substantial inheritance. As he travels towards Paris, he encounters a distressed carriage containing a veiled lady and her elderly companion. Despite his efforts to assist, her identity remains elusive, which only intensifies his fascination. Shortly thereafter, Beckett checks into the Belle Étoile inn, where he becomes increasingly aware of the tensions surrounding the mysterious Count and Countess de St. Alyre. The atmosphere thickens further with the introduction of Colonel Gaillarde, whose violent outburst foreshadows darker events to come. The opening chapters paint a vivid picture of intrigue, potential danger, and the beguiling nature of love, setting the stage for the unfolding drama.
J. S. Le Fanu's Ghostly Tales, Volume 1
"J. S. Le Fanu's Ghostly Tales, Volume 1" by Joseph Sheridan Le Fanu is a collection of ghost stories written during the early to mid-19th century, a period known for its fascination with the supernatural, particularly in Victorian literature. This collection features two main tales: "Schalken the Painter" and "An Account of Some Strange Disturbances in Aungier Street," which explore themes of love, loss, and the haunting presence of the past. The likely topics revolve around eerie occurrences and unsettling atmospheres that reflect the complexities of human emotions and the thin veil between the living and the dead. In "Schalken the Painter," the story follows a young artist, Godfrey Schalken, who falls in love with Rose Velderkaust, the niece of his master, Gerard Douw. As Schalken pursues his artistic career, he is unexpectedly confronted by a mysterious suitor, Minheer Vanderhausen, who wishes to marry Rose. The tale takes a dark turn as Vanderhausen's true nature is revealed, leading to tragic consequences for both Rose and Schalken. Meanwhile, "An Account of Some Strange Disturbances in Aungier Street" recounts the experiences of two medical students who encounter unsettling occurrences in their dilapidated residence, including ghostly apparitions and an unsettling presence linked to the former occupant who committed suicide. Both stories intertwine elements of mystery and horror, gripping the reader with their haunting narratives and chilling atmospheres.
A Stable for Nightmares; or, Weird Tales
"A Stable for Nightmares; or, Weird Tales" by J. Sheridan Le Fanu and Sir Charles Young is a collection of ghost stories written in the late 19th century. The work delves into supernatural themes, featuring eerie tales filled with unusual characters and unsettling events. Each story unveils a new aspect of the uncanny, ranging from haunted locations to ghostly encounters, capturing the reader's imagination and sense of dread. The opening of the book introduces a character who is traveling to a deserted estate, Barwyke Hall, to settle a property matter for two wealthy heirs. As he journeys through the picturesque yet unsettling landscape of Lancashire, he encounters an innkeeper who hints at local legends surrounding the house. Upon arriving, the narrator finds Barwyke Hall neglected and shadowed by a dark lake that recalls ominous childhood stories. The tension heightens as he hears tales of the long-deceased owner and an unsettling figure known as "Dickon the Devil," whose strange behavior and connection to the estate evoke a sense of foreboding that sets the tone for the chilling narratives to follow.
Green Tea; Mr. Justice Harbottle
"Green Tea; Mr. Justice Harbottle" by Joseph Sheridan Le Fanu is a collection of supernatural tales written in the late 19th century. The stories delve into themes of psychological horror and the occult, presenting cases that intertwine spiritual phenomena with medical insights, as narrated by the character Dr. Martin Hesselius, who serves as the primary observer and chronicler of the events surrounding affected individuals, including figures like the Rev. Mr. Jennings and the titular Mr. Justice Harbottle. At the start of "Green Tea," we are introduced to Martin Hesselius, a physician who refrains from practicing medicine due to health issues. He recounts his admiration for Dr. Hesselius, presenting a case involving the Rev. Mr. Jennings—a man plagued by mysterious health episodes and an ominous presence in the form of a spectral monkey that seems tied to his feelings of dread. The narrative unfolds with Jennings's descent into despair as he grapples with his unwelcome companion, leading to serious spiritual dilemmas and a search for answers. The opening sets a chilling tone, highlighting the intersection of mental health, supernatural occurrences, and moral quandaries that Le Fanu expertly weaves throughout the work.
The Watcher, and other weird stories
"The Watcher and Other Weird Stories" by J. Sheridan Le Fanu is a collection of supernatural tales written in the late 19th century. The stories often delve into themes of mystery and the uncanny, with a focus on the psychological impacts of fear and the unknown. This volume promises to immerse readers in eerie narratives and unsettling situations, set against the backdrop of societal norms and personal anxieties prevalent during the time. At the start of "The Watcher," we are introduced to Captain James Barton, a naval officer who has returned to Dublin after a commendable service. Initially portrayed as reserved and logical, Barton's life begins to unravel as he experiences a haunting presence that follows him at night, accompanied by strange sounds that seem to echo his every step. As he grapples with these unsettling occurrences, he receives ominous letters warning him of danger, hinting at a connection to his past. The opening captures Barton’s gradual descent into paranoia and fear, setting the stage for a gripping exploration of his psychological torment and the potential supernatural forces at play.
Wylder's Hand
"Wylder's Hand" by Joseph Sheridan Le Fanu is a novel written during the mid-19th century. The story unfolds with the protagonist, Charles de Cresseron, as he journeys to Gylingden while carrying a letter from Mark Wylder, hinting at a complex interplay of family relations and an impending marriage. The narrative is characterized by its rich descriptions of the English countryside and a focus on the entangled lineage of Wylders and Brandons, which sets the stage for themes of madness, inheritance, and the intricacies of interpersonal relationships. The opening of "Wylder's Hand" introduces us to Charles de Cresseron as he reflects upon his past while driving through Gylingden. He encounters memories of his childhood, particularly connected to the Brandon family, which are laced with a sense of nostalgia and foreboding. The letter from Mark Wylder reveals his recent inheritance and his plans to marry Dorcas Brandon, stirring apprehension in Charles as he remembers the intertwined histories of their families. As Charles arrives at Brandon Hall, the dynamics between characters become clear, highlighting the complexities at play, including the impending marriage and potential conflicts that could arise from it. This opening sets a tone of mystery and tension, inviting the reader to delve deeper into the unfolding drama.
In a Glass Darkly, v. 3/3
"In a Glass Darkly, v. 3/3" by Joseph Sheridan Le Fanu is a collection of stories published in 1872. Presented as papers from occult detective Dr. Martin Hesselius, these five Gothic tales explore supernatural horror and mystery. A clergyman is haunted by a phantom monkey. A sea captain faces a sinister dwarf stalker. A cruel judge receives otherworldly justice. An Englishman falls into a deadly trap in France. And in "Carmilla," one of literature's earliest vampire stories, a female predator stalks her victim in Austria.
Guy Deverell, v. 2 of 2
"Guy Deverell, v. 2 of 2" by Joseph Sheridan Le Fanu is a novel written in the late 19th century. The book follows the complex character of Guy Deverell, intersecting his fate with that of various other intriguing figures, such as Lady Alice Redcliffe and Monsieur Varbarriere, as they navigate themes of mystery, family secrets, and the supernatural. At the start of the narrative, we are introduced to Lady Alice and the Bishop as they discuss the late Sir Harry Marlowe’s last wishes regarding a red box containing a secret of significant importance. This conversation highlights Lady Alice's mounting concerns over her missing son, Guy, while the sinister figure of Monsieur Varbarriere looms in the background, hinting at his intricate involvement in the unfolding drama. As she grapples with her fears and the potential significance of the mysterious box, tension rises, foreshadowing deeper revelations connected to family secrets and personal tragedies that will soon entangle them all. The opening thus sets a tone rife with suspense and intrigue, preparing the reader for a tale rich with generational conflict and hidden motives.
Willing to Die: A Novel
"Willing to Die: A Novel" by Joseph Sheridan Le Fanu is a fiction work written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around Ethel Ware, a woman reflecting on her past experiences, particularly surrounding her family dynamics and the introduction of significant figures into her life, such as a mysterious governess and the ominous stranger Mr. Droqville. The narrative promises a blend of personal introspection and the unveiling of secrets that may affect Ethel's life moving forward. The opening of the novel introduces Ethel Ware as she describes her life and thoughts candidly, establishing her contemplative nature. We learn about her childhood experiences, particularly a haunting encounter that forms a lasting impression. Ethel's present-day life at Malory is characterized by the arrival of a new governess, Laura Grey, and a peculiar neighbor, Mr. Carmel, who brings both intrigue and a hint of foreboding. Their interactions set the stage for the unfolding drama, with Ethel displaying a strong will against external pressures, particularly the unsettling presence of Mr. Droqville. The chapter lays the groundwork for deeper themes of authority, independence, and the complexities of human relationships that will likely develop as the narrative progresses.
Guy Deverell, v. 1 of 2
"Guy Deverell, v. 1 of 2" by Joseph Sheridan Le Fanu is a gothic novel written in the mid-19th century. The story focuses on Sir Jekyl Marlowe, a baronet with a vast estate, who becomes intrigued and unsettled by a young gentleman named Guy Strangways, whose striking resemblance to a long-dead relative raises unsettling memories and suspicions. The tale unfolds in a richly atmospheric setting, suggestive of mystery and the supernatural. At the start of the novel, Sir Jekyl is introduced at the Plough Inn, where his jovial demeanor betrays underlying disturbances as he encounters the handsome stranger. The narrative quickly shifts between his casual interactions with the innkeeper and the sudden shift in his mood upon seeing Strangways. His curiosity intensifies, leading him to seek Strangways out; simultaneously, the story hints at a darker history involving the Deverell family and an ominous green chamber in his manor. This opening effectively establishes a tension between the light-hearted surface of Sir Jekyl's life and the darker undertones of familial duty and eerie coincidences that are central to the unfolding mystery.
In a Glass Darkly, v. 2/3
"In a Glass Darkly, v. 2/3" by Joseph Sheridan Le Fanu is a collection of stories first published in 1872. This volume presents tales from the case files of occult detective Dr. Martin Hesselius, exploring supernatural terror and psychological horror. A clergyman haunted by a phantom monkey, a sea captain stalked by a sinister dwarf, a corrupt judge facing otherworldly vengeance—each story delves into mysteries where reality blurs with nightmare. The collection includes "Carmilla," a groundbreaking vampire tale that predated "Dracula" by twenty-five years.
J. S. Le Fanu's Ghostly Tales, Volume 2
"J. S. Le Fanu's Ghostly Tales, Volume 2" by Joseph Sheridan Le Fanu is a collection of supernatural stories written during the mid-19th century, primarily in the Victorian era. This volume includes "An Authentic Narrative of a Haunted House" and "Ultor De Lacy: A Legend of Cappercullen." The anthology explores themes of haunting and the unexplained, delving into eerie atmospheres and spectral manifestations that captivate the reader's imagination. In "An Authentic Narrative of a Haunted House," an unnamed narrator recounts the unsettling experiences of a family who moves into a seemingly modern house on the sea-coast, only to encounter strange apparitions and phenomena that challenge their understanding of reality. The tale unfolds with a series of ghostly encounters, including a tall, ghostly figure perceived by the narrator's wife, sightings by their staff, and even distressing sounds during the night. The narrative builds a sense of dread and curiosity, culminating in a treasure found in the garden that hints at a dark history tied to the location. Meanwhile, "Ultor De Lacy" tells the story of a young Irish nobleman entangled in political strife, leading him and his daughters to face supernatural occurrences linked to their family's tragic past. Together, these stories capture the essence of ghostly hauntings woven into the fabric of the characters' lives, showcasing Le Fanu's talent for blending horror with deep emotional and historical undercurrents.
Madam Crowl's Ghost and the Dead Sexton
"Madam Crowl's Ghost and The Dead Sexton" by Joseph Sheridan Le Fanu is a collection of supernatural tales that first appeared in the early 1870s, during a time when Gothic fiction was gaining popularity in the literary scene. These stories delve into themes of the macabre and the unknown, exploring the interactions of the living with unsettling spectral figures. The collection is indicative of the Victorian era's fascination with ghost stories and the supernatural. In "Madam Crowl's Ghost," the narrative follows a young girl, who recounts her experiences with the enigmatic and reportedly malevolent Dame Crowl, an elderly woman rumored to be connected to the disappearance of her stepson. As the young nursemaid witnesses strange occurrences and encounters the ghostly figure of Dame Crowl, the lines between reality and the supernatural begin to blur. In "The Dead Sexton," the tale revolves around the mysterious death of Toby Crooke, the town's sexton, who dies under suspicious circumstances that hint at a dark history. The twist culminates with the revelation of his nefarious intentions to rob the church, ultimately leading to tragic consequences. Both stories weave together elements of suspense, moral lessons, and the inevitability of fate, making this collection a captivating exploration of ghostly folklore.
J. S. Le Fanu's Ghostly Tales, Volume 3 The Haunted Baronet (1871)
"J. S. Le Fanu's Ghostly Tales, Volume 3" by Joseph Sheridan Le Fanu is a collection of ghost stories likely written in the late 19th century. This volume, opening with "The Haunted Baronet," sets the stage in the picturesque village of Golden Friars, shrouded in mystery and supernatural occurrences, particularly revolving around the troubled lives of local inhabitants and the secrets they harbor. The opening portion introduces readers to the charming yet eerie setting of Golden Friars, primarily featuring the George and Dragon inn, where a group of local patrons discusses the impending return of Sir Bale Mardykes, a man linked to a tragic past involving a drowned woman and her child. The narratives unravel the intertwining fates of Sir Bale, Philip Feltram—an illegitimate descendant of a lost noble lineage—and unsettling tales of ghostly apparitions connected to the lake nearby. As the story progresses, feelings of dread and foreboding linger, setting in motion a series of events that will clash with the ghostly past that haunts both the characters and the landscape, hinting toward themes of guilt, retribution, and the supernatural's infiltration into daily life.