Juhana reviewed Doomed Romances by Mary Shelley
Love is the devil
4 stars
Love can be scary in itself, so it's probably not surprising that in horror that is often an element in stories. Vampires in particular being often the object of tainted love, which this collection of short stories also features.
Content-wise not a bad selection, although not what I expected initially. The stories are more or less commentary of contemporary issues and fears revolving love lives. Some of the stories were, however, quite dated; mere academic curiosities as it were. So in conclusion, a mixed bag.
Some highlights:
- Carmilla: Le Fanu's famous sapphic vampire novella set the tone for Stoker's Dracula, and while I've read it before, the text is a joy to read.
- One Remained Behind: a student dabbles in the dark arts to find fame and fortune, but is bound to a phantom bride. Marjorie Bowen's story features some classic deal-with-the-devil twists.
- The Lady of the House …
Love can be scary in itself, so it's probably not surprising that in horror that is often an element in stories. Vampires in particular being often the object of tainted love, which this collection of short stories also features.
Content-wise not a bad selection, although not what I expected initially. The stories are more or less commentary of contemporary issues and fears revolving love lives. Some of the stories were, however, quite dated; mere academic curiosities as it were. So in conclusion, a mixed bag.
Some highlights:
- Carmilla: Le Fanu's famous sapphic vampire novella set the tone for Stoker's Dracula, and while I've read it before, the text is a joy to read.
- One Remained Behind: a student dabbles in the dark arts to find fame and fortune, but is bound to a phantom bride. Marjorie Bowen's story features some classic deal-with-the-devil twists.
- The Lady of the House of Love: Angela Carter's vampiric retelling of sleeping beauty is delicious in content and form.