Subject
Psychics -- Fiction Books
Best books
Algernon Blackwood
John Silence, Physician Extraordinary
"John Silence, Physician Extraordinary" by Algernon Blackwood is a collection of supernatural tales written in the early 20th century. The narrative revolves around Dr. John Silence, a unique physician who specializes in psychical afflictions and offers his unconventional healing methods to those suffering from mysterious emotional states. His cases often involve elements of the occult, exploring the deeper realms of the human psyche and the supernatural. The opening portion introduces Dr. Silence as he engages in a conversation with a Swedish lady, Mrs. Sivendson, regarding a case that intrigues him—a young author named Felix Pender, who has suddenly lost his sense of humor and is plagued by an inexplicable terror. The doctor learns about Pender's haunting experiences, which began after an experiment with a drug that has connected him with dark, psychical forces. This leads Silence to the conclusion that he must investigate this curious affliction further, setting the stage for a deeper exploration into psychical invasions and the potential dangers that lurk beyond the veil of ordinary perception.
Algernon Blackwood
Three John Silence Stories
"Three John Silence Stories" by Algernon Blackwood is a collection of supernatural fiction written in the early 20th century. This volume features the eccentric Dr. John Silence, a psychic doctor with an extraordinary understanding of the human spirit and its afflictions. The stories delve into the realms of the unknown and the occurrences of psychical invasions, exploring how Dr. Silence employs his unique talents to help those afflicted by unexplainable phenomena. The opening of "A Psychical Invasion," the first story in the collection, introduces Dr. John Silence as he converses with a Swedish lady named Mrs. Sivendson, who seeks his assistance with a peculiar case involving a humorist, Felix Pender. Pender, once a talented writer of comedies, has suddenly lost his gift for humor and is plagued by an overwhelming sense of fear that he cannot articulate. As Mrs. Sivendson recounts Pender's strange experiences, Silence learns that the author believes a malevolent presence is haunting him, stifling his creativity and replacing his joy with dread. Intrigued, Dr. Silence prepares to meet Pender and investigate the source of this psychological turmoil, setting the stage for a remarkable exploration of psychic disturbances and the unseen forces at play in our lives.
John Ames Mitchell
Amos Judd
"Amos Judd" by John Ames Mitchell is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story begins with the arrival of three foreigners—two men and a boy—in a small American village, Daleford, where they seek out a man named Josiah Judd. The narrative hints at themes of cultural contrasts and the complexities of identity, particularly through the character of the boy, who is set to become intertwined with the lives of the locals. The opening of "Amos Judd" introduces us to the village of Daleford and lays the groundwork for the central relationships that will develop throughout the novel. As the strangers arrive, they exhibit an air of mystery, particularly the young boy who is revealed to be under the care of Mr. Judd, leading to speculation about his origins. A letter from Mr. Judd's brother in India reveals that the boy's life is in danger, introducing elements of suspense. The villagers, particularly Mr. Judd, are drawn into a web of intrigue involving wealth, foreign connections, and the challenge of understanding a child from a vastly different culture. As the scene unfolds, we witness the juxtaposition of the boy's dignified demeanor with the simple, rustic lives of the village, setting the stage for both conflict and connection.
May Sinclair
The Flaw in the Crystal
"The Flaw in the Crystal" by May Sinclair is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around Agatha Verrall and her complex relationship with Rodney Lanyon, who faces the challenges of a troubled marriage. The novel explores themes of love, mental illness, and a mysterious gift that Agatha possesses, enabling her to influence the well-being of others, particularly Rodney. At the start of the book, we find Rodney Lanyon contemplating his secret weekends with Agatha, which serve as an escape from the torment of his wife, Bella, who suffers from severe mental distress. Agatha reflects on her ability to help Rodney cope with his situation, and as we delve into their relationship, it becomes evident that their bond is not only emotional but also touches on deeper, almost supernatural elements. As Agatha prepares for Rodney’s arrival, she battles with her own desires and the growing implications of her powers, setting the stage for the complexities that unfold amidst the backdrop of isolation in the English countryside.
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