The Castle of Otranto is regarded as the first gothic novel as it merges medievalism and terror in a style that has endured ever since. The aesthetics of the book shaped modern-day gothic books, films, art, music and the goth subculture. The book begins on the wedding-day of his sickly son Conrad and princess Isabella. Shortly before the wedding, however, Conrad is crushed to death by a gigantic helmet that falls on him from above. This inexplicable event is particularly ominous in light o...

HORACE WALPOLE was the youngest son of Sir Robert Walpole, the great statesman, who died Earl of Orford. He was born in 1717, the year in which his father resigned office, remaining in opposition for almost three years before his return to a long tenure of power. Horace Walpole was educated at Eton, where he formed a school friendship with Thomas Gray, who was but a few months older. In 1739 Gray was travelling-companion with Walpole in France and Italy until they differed and parted; but ...

"The Castle of Otranto" tells the story of Manfred, the lord of the Castle of Otranto, who seeks to maintain his family's lineage and power. When his son Conrad dies mysteriously on his wedding day, Manfred becomes obsessed with producing a male heir to secure his dynasty. He is willing to go to extreme lengths, including defying societal and moral conventions, to achieve his goal.The novel is characterized by its eerie atmosphere, supernatural occurrences, and elements of suspense and hor...

Originally published in 1906 as one volume, Camping and Woodcraft was expanded into a two-volume edition in 1916 and 1917. Ranked sixth among the ten best-selling sporting books of all time, Camping and Woodcraft remains a classic for campers and a veritable outdoor enthusiast’s bible. This manual reflects Horace Kephart’s practical knowledge and covers, in depth, any problem that campers might confront. Kephart lived in the Great Smoky Mountains and spent most of his tim...

The Castle of Otranto is a book by Horace Walpole first published in 1764 and generally regarded as the first gothic novel. In the second edition, Walpole applied the word 'Gothic' to the novel in the subtitle – "A Gothic Story". The novel merged medievalism and terror in a style that has endured ever since. The aesthetic of the book has shaped modern-day gothic books, films, art, music and the goth subculture.The novel initiated a literary genre which would become extremely popular...

"Our Southern Highlanders" by Horace Kephart is a captivating exploration of the life and culture of the Appalachian people in the Southern Highlands. Kephart, an outdoor enthusiast and writer, immerses himself in the rugged beauty of the region, capturing the essence of its landscapes and the resilience of its inhabitants. Through vivid descriptions and personal anecdotes, he paints a picture of a world that is both enchanting and challenging, revealing the deep connection between the peo...

My life has always been one move away from falling apart, and the latest eviction notice proved it. Roderick blocked the hallway with those broad shoulders of his and told me we were not going anywhere without a fight.Down in the storage rooms his instructions came low and firm, telling me exactly where to stand and how high to reach while his hand stayed firm at my waist. Each time I obeyed I felt the tattoo on my wrist like a reminder of every place I had left behind, yet I staye...

Horrifying supernatural visitations, long-dreaded curses, and barbarous murders, Horace Walpole’s revered The Castle of Otranto is the founding gothic novel, launching one of the most popular literary genres.When the heir of Otranto is mysteriously murdered, his Machiavellian father, Manfred, schemes to marry his late-son’s fiancé in a bid to keep the castle and continue his family line. As he attempts to coerce the young girl, Isabella, an ancient curse t...

Gothic Classics: 60+ Books in One Volume is a captivating exploration of the Gothic literary tradition, showcasing a rich tapestry of themes such as the supernatural, psychological terror, and the sublime. This comprehensive collection presents an eclectic range of literary styles that span haunting tales of mystery and horror, each contributing uniquely to the overarching genre. With standout pieces that transport the reader through eerie landscapes and delve into the shadows of the human...

Black Mask, the greatest American detective magazine of all time is back with an all-new story by the creator of Doc Savage, Lester Dent. Also featuring classic hard-boiled detective stories by Horace McCoy, Wyatt Blassingame, Day Keene, Herbert Koehl, Kent Richards, Stephen McBarron, Dwight V. Babcock, Hugh B. Cave, and Edgar Franklin, all from the golden age of pulp fiction. With vintage brush illustrations by Arthur Rodman Bowker, as well as a previously-unpublished in...

Special Illustrated Edition: Dive into the Gothic Abyss with Exclusive ContentIllustrated Edition: Immerse yourself in the visual spectacle with 15 enchanting illustrations that breathe life into the gothic tales of Otranto.Enhanced Reading Experience: Accompanied by a succinct summary to enrich your journey through the dark corridors of Walpole’s imagination.Meet the Cast: A detailed ch...

From the eerie corridors of ancient strongholds to the depths of ancestral secrets, The Castle of Otranto and The Old English Baron are captivating works of classic horror with significant influence in the history of gothic fiction.Esteemed and highly influential, Horace Walpole's The Castle of Otranto (1764) was England's first gothic horror novel, but when Clara Reeve rewrote the story as The Old English Baron (1778) over thirt...