THE FALL OF THE HOUSE OF USHER

It has been many years since I first read The The Fall of the House of Usher by Edgar Allan Poe, so decided to read the short story again recently.

I love the creepily Gothic atmosphere Poe builds in the book, the foreboding gloom of the old house and its surroundings.

The story unfolds with the unnamed narrator receiving an invitation from an old friend, Roderick Usher, asking him for help in coping with his unknown illness. The all pervading atmosphere of sorrow, secrets, the seemingly premature entombment of Roderick's sister, and a storm breaking over the house, all add to the decaying melancholy that grips the very fabric of the building and its inhabitants.
Gradually the tale of the doomed Usher family unfolds into an intense climax. A great short story and well worth the read.

The story has been made into a number of films over the years, and probably the most famous version starring Vincent Price. IMDB.

Poe's own life was troubled in many ways, and he died at the young age of 40 in mysterious circumstances. You can read about him, his life and work at the link Edgar Allan Poe. And more here about The Fall of the House of Usher.

EMILY'S EVIL GHOST

My book Emily's Evil Ghost is also available now on Audible.

It's about a young man, Tom Roberts, who has been aware from childhood that mysterious events once occurred at his grandfather's remote country house, but has no idea of exactly what happened there. Years later, when he spends a short break at the property, the horrifying past comes vividly to life, as ghosts rise from their graves to reveal deeply buried family secrets.

US Audible link: Viewbook
UK Audible link: Viewbook
Amazon link: Viewbook

As the New Year begins, hope it's a good one for all, and that we'll see that wretched Covid virus sent packing.