http://www.gothicromanceforum.com/ Thu, 24 Jul 2008 08:10:53 -0700 MyBB http://www.gothicromanceforum.com/showthread.php?tid=215 Wed, 23 Jul 2008 16:07:38 -0700 http://www.gothicromanceforum.com/showthread.php?tid=215
Please take a look!

Some material has been posted there I've not shared here.

Thank you! :D]]>
Please take a look!

Some material has been posted there I've not shared here.

Thank you! :D]]> http://www.gothicromanceforum.com/showthread.php?tid=214 Tue, 22 Jul 2008 08:39:24 -0700 http://www.gothicromanceforum.com/showthread.php?tid=214
[A scanned photo of cover]:

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2279/1814...12ce_o.jpg

It's my 1st Ross novel and it was a BLAST. It was GoThic to a T. :D

Supernatural elements. Mysterious and unexpected deaths. Menacing and malicious human machinations. Twists and turns. Fog, rain, gloom.

It's 1900 on Elm Island, a tiny island in the Atlantic Ocean a few miles from the Nova Scotia coast. Lucy Ashton is the 22-year-old hieress to "Satan's Rock": A vast and haunted castle-like mansion (built up by her paternal grandfather) on the site named for the intrepid and cruel pirate who founded the original fortress there: Black Satan.

He left supposed treasure chests filled with gold and jewels buried somewhere on Elm Island, and likely within the maze of confusing and treacherous tunnels beneath the original fortress called "Satan's Rock." Before abandoning the island and his treasure, Black Satan allegedly pronounced a curse on all who would try to find his treasure.

Despite the curse, dozens of fortune hunters have come to the island on aggressive digging expeditions. All have met with disaster and death.

Lucy's family, the Ashtons, have refused to seek the treasure. They believe because of this they've been kept safe.

Now Lucy's father is deceased. Her mother, Cynthia, has remarried a hateful and hard-drinking man named Theodore Hastings. When the latest expedition to find Black Satan's gold meets in certain untimely deaths, Edward Roper returns from Halifax, Nova Scotia. He and Lucy are in love. And soon their love becomes strained as Edward makes a life-altering decision which puts him at odds with Lucy's nasty stepfather, Theodore Hastings.

Trouble and heartache abound.

And in the midst of all this comes Simon Crowe. Aside from Lucy, he is *the* most interesting character in the novel imo. I was particularly curious to see where he fit into the story...and I wasn't disappointed.

Loved this novel. It was fast-paced and very suspenseful and chock full of genuine Gothic aura.

The cast of characters as I visualized them:

Lucy Ashton: Wynona Ryder [age 22]
Cynthia Ashton-Hastings: Barbara Hershey [age 51]
Theodore Hastings: Jack Cassidy [age 49]
Edward Roper: Ewan MacGregor [age 23]
William Roper: Walter Barnes [age 55]
Jacob Greer: John Malkovich [age 42]
Simon Crowe: He's beyond portrayal by a human actor, lol! :P]]>
[A scanned photo of cover]:

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2279/1814...12ce_o.jpg

It's my 1st Ross novel and it was a BLAST. It was GoThic to a T. :D

Supernatural elements. Mysterious and unexpected deaths. Menacing and malicious human machinations. Twists and turns. Fog, rain, gloom.

It's 1900 on Elm Island, a tiny island in the Atlantic Ocean a few miles from the Nova Scotia coast. Lucy Ashton is the 22-year-old hieress to "Satan's Rock": A vast and haunted castle-like mansion (built up by her paternal grandfather) on the site named for the intrepid and cruel pirate who founded the original fortress there: Black Satan.

He left supposed treasure chests filled with gold and jewels buried somewhere on Elm Island, and likely within the maze of confusing and treacherous tunnels beneath the original fortress called "Satan's Rock." Before abandoning the island and his treasure, Black Satan allegedly pronounced a curse on all who would try to find his treasure.

Despite the curse, dozens of fortune hunters have come to the island on aggressive digging expeditions. All have met with disaster and death.

Lucy's family, the Ashtons, have refused to seek the treasure. They believe because of this they've been kept safe.

Now Lucy's father is deceased. Her mother, Cynthia, has remarried a hateful and hard-drinking man named Theodore Hastings. When the latest expedition to find Black Satan's gold meets in certain untimely deaths, Edward Roper returns from Halifax, Nova Scotia. He and Lucy are in love. And soon their love becomes strained as Edward makes a life-altering decision which puts him at odds with Lucy's nasty stepfather, Theodore Hastings.

Trouble and heartache abound.

And in the midst of all this comes Simon Crowe. Aside from Lucy, he is *the* most interesting character in the novel imo. I was particularly curious to see where he fit into the story...and I wasn't disappointed.

Loved this novel. It was fast-paced and very suspenseful and chock full of genuine Gothic aura.

The cast of characters as I visualized them:

Lucy Ashton: Wynona Ryder [age 22]
Cynthia Ashton-Hastings: Barbara Hershey [age 51]
Theodore Hastings: Jack Cassidy [age 49]
Edward Roper: Ewan MacGregor [age 23]
William Roper: Walter Barnes [age 55]
Jacob Greer: John Malkovich [age 42]
Simon Crowe: He's beyond portrayal by a human actor, lol! :P]]> http://www.gothicromanceforum.com/showthread.php?tid=213 Sat, 19 Jul 2008 16:06:45 -0700 http://www.gothicromanceforum.com/showthread.php?tid=213 http://www.gothicromanceforum.com/showthread.php?tid=212 Thu, 10 Jul 2008 15:27:21 -0700 http://www.gothicromanceforum.com/showthread.php?tid=212
Here is the synopsis:

"On her wedding day, Evelyn Bevington was left literally standing at the altar when her childhood sweetheart, Jerry Davis, ran off with another woman. Though that was three years ago, still "that woman" was the last person Evelyn expected to come calling on her. But luxury-loving Leila Davis needed a favor - specifically, she needed money and offered to sell an exquisitely carved old ivory chess set. Evelyn bought it, thinking it would make the perfect gift for friends she was planning to visit on Guam. That night she had another caller who came unannounced through the back door and left her unconscious from a blow on the head. It was the first of a series of frightening incidents that Evelyn thought she left behind when she boarded a plane for Hawaii, the first stop on her scheduled trip. But halfway across the world she discovered she was being followed - and terror became her traveling companion..."

This could only muster a "C" for me.]]>
Here is the synopsis:

"On her wedding day, Evelyn Bevington was left literally standing at the altar when her childhood sweetheart, Jerry Davis, ran off with another woman. Though that was three years ago, still "that woman" was the last person Evelyn expected to come calling on her. But luxury-loving Leila Davis needed a favor - specifically, she needed money and offered to sell an exquisitely carved old ivory chess set. Evelyn bought it, thinking it would make the perfect gift for friends she was planning to visit on Guam. That night she had another caller who came unannounced through the back door and left her unconscious from a blow on the head. It was the first of a series of frightening incidents that Evelyn thought she left behind when she boarded a plane for Hawaii, the first stop on her scheduled trip. But halfway across the world she discovered she was being followed - and terror became her traveling companion..."

This could only muster a "C" for me.]]> http://www.gothicromanceforum.com/showthread.php?tid=211 Thu, 10 Jul 2008 15:13:49 -0700 http://www.gothicromanceforum.com/showthread.php?tid=211
In order not to spoil the story, I will just quote the synopsis on the book:

"Lovely heiress Kate Marlowe never hesitated to help a friend in need, and she was quick to take up the cause of a young woman who had been married, got with child, and then abandoned by the future Lord Ledstonborough. With the infant in her arms, Kate went to the Ledstonborough estate to confront the father and force him to recognize his heir. But the father was not there. Instead, the dark ancestral house of Ledstonborough was filled with malevolent, grasping people, each intent on securing the lordly title for himself. Kate began to fear for the child's life - especially with the appearance of the "Veiled Lady," a spectral figure who walked the halls only when an heir to the title was soon to die!"

It deserves a "B" for fun.]]>
In order not to spoil the story, I will just quote the synopsis on the book:

"Lovely heiress Kate Marlowe never hesitated to help a friend in need, and she was quick to take up the cause of a young woman who had been married, got with child, and then abandoned by the future Lord Ledstonborough. With the infant in her arms, Kate went to the Ledstonborough estate to confront the father and force him to recognize his heir. But the father was not there. Instead, the dark ancestral house of Ledstonborough was filled with malevolent, grasping people, each intent on securing the lordly title for himself. Kate began to fear for the child's life - especially with the appearance of the "Veiled Lady," a spectral figure who walked the halls only when an heir to the title was soon to die!"

It deserves a "B" for fun.]]> http://www.gothicromanceforum.com/showthread.php?tid=210 Mon, 07 Jul 2008 20:18:39 -0700 http://www.gothicromanceforum.com/showthread.php?tid=210
The 1st story is Hounds of Hell by Virginia Coffman [ironically it was one of her other titles I was searching for, which is how I came across this Double Gothic]; the 2nd story is Carnaby Curse by Daoma Winston. Both copyrighted 1967.



I'm hoping to discover other Double Gothics. :cool:]]>
The 1st story is Hounds of Hell by Virginia Coffman [ironically it was one of her other titles I was searching for, which is how I came across this Double Gothic]; the 2nd story is Carnaby Curse by Daoma Winston. Both copyrighted 1967.



I'm hoping to discover other Double Gothics. :cool:]]> http://www.gothicromanceforum.com/showthread.php?tid=209 Mon, 07 Jul 2008 20:11:29 -0700 http://www.gothicromanceforum.com/showthread.php?tid=209
It should be converted into a full-color/length graphic novel. This novel was meant to be seen -- not just merely read.

It's a straightforward and entertaining story, filled with unexpected twists. And for once I'm unsure how to summarize it without giving any spoilers! But here goes: Lilia Henderson is an American in Scotland, having just received her doctorate in English Literature. She's en route to London [though still in the Scottish Highlands] when a rainstorm forces her off the road. She cannot read the sign post through the rain-streaked window, but decides -- or rather is compelled to -- follow the secondary road despite her better judgment. She finally decides to stop, shuts off the car, gets out and takes a smoke while enjoying the stunning stormy panorama around her. When she decides to leave and get back to the main road, Lilia discovers her car won't start. She then spies two stone markers in the near distance...and decides, despite a haunting inner warning, to check the markers out.

And then everything changes for Lilia.

A short while later she kills a man [Nebiros] who has unjustly killed someone she loves [Anson, with whom I also fell in love; what a prince of a man!]. Nebiros' master, Gyres, swears revenge. He is a 500-year-old sorcerer whose Master is the Prince of Darkness himself. But Gyres has a very interesting secret which, ironically, he himself is unaware of...and part of that secret ultimately [well -- read the book! ;) ].

My only complaint with the story occurred in Chapter Fifteen, when suddenly Lilia's father, Will, is being called "Ned" -- all throughout the chapter! :( Ned is Lilia's uncle, and was only previously mentioned in passing. I can't believe the author herself would make such a goof. In the same chapter Clarence, Lilia's betrothed, is also called "Ned"! :-\ Some of those typesetters and proofreaders sure fall asleep on the job...

Anyway, an excellent story. In this post-The Exorcist/Hellraiser world the novel's scenes and descriptions of black magic and nefarious doings sometimes seems a bit corny...however, the author pulled some very unique tricks out of her hat in the telling.

The edition I found was Manor Books, 1976. The cover art is ... lacking. I have mail ordered the original 1968 Lancer Books Inc. edition and hope its cover art is as worthy as the story!

The cast of characters as I visualized them:

Lilia Henderson: Susan Dey [age 22]
Will Henderson: Sam Neill [age 45]
Anson Henderson: Orlando Bloom [age 21]
Gyres: Ralph Fiennes [age 33]
Clarence: Leonardo DiCaprio [age 22]
Endor: Kim Bassinger [age 35]
Ann: Kirsten Dunst [age 16]]]>
It should be converted into a full-color/length graphic novel. This novel was meant to be seen -- not just merely read.

It's a straightforward and entertaining story, filled with unexpected twists. And for once I'm unsure how to summarize it without giving any spoilers! But here goes: Lilia Henderson is an American in Scotland, having just received her doctorate in English Literature. She's en route to London [though still in the Scottish Highlands] when a rainstorm forces her off the road. She cannot read the sign post through the rain-streaked window, but decides -- or rather is compelled to -- follow the secondary road despite her better judgment. She finally decides to stop, shuts off the car, gets out and takes a smoke while enjoying the stunning stormy panorama around her. When she decides to leave and get back to the main road, Lilia discovers her car won't start. She then spies two stone markers in the near distance...and decides, despite a haunting inner warning, to check the markers out.

And then everything changes for Lilia.

A short while later she kills a man [Nebiros] who has unjustly killed someone she loves [Anson, with whom I also fell in love; what a prince of a man!]. Nebiros' master, Gyres, swears revenge. He is a 500-year-old sorcerer whose Master is the Prince of Darkness himself. But Gyres has a very interesting secret which, ironically, he himself is unaware of...and part of that secret ultimately [well -- read the book! ;) ].

My only complaint with the story occurred in Chapter Fifteen, when suddenly Lilia's father, Will, is being called "Ned" -- all throughout the chapter! :( Ned is Lilia's uncle, and was only previously mentioned in passing. I can't believe the author herself would make such a goof. In the same chapter Clarence, Lilia's betrothed, is also called "Ned"! :-\ Some of those typesetters and proofreaders sure fall asleep on the job...

Anyway, an excellent story. In this post-The Exorcist/Hellraiser world the novel's scenes and descriptions of black magic and nefarious doings sometimes seems a bit corny...however, the author pulled some very unique tricks out of her hat in the telling.

The edition I found was Manor Books, 1976. The cover art is ... lacking. I have mail ordered the original 1968 Lancer Books Inc. edition and hope its cover art is as worthy as the story!

The cast of characters as I visualized them:

Lilia Henderson: Susan Dey [age 22]
Will Henderson: Sam Neill [age 45]
Anson Henderson: Orlando Bloom [age 21]
Gyres: Ralph Fiennes [age 33]
Clarence: Leonardo DiCaprio [age 22]
Endor: Kim Bassinger [age 35]
Ann: Kirsten Dunst [age 16]]]> http://www.gothicromanceforum.com/showthread.php?tid=208 Wed, 02 Jul 2008 08:48:22 -0700 http://www.gothicromanceforum.com/showthread.php?tid=208
Mixed thoughts on the story itself. It's well crafted. Characters are strong. Nurse Nancy Bronson is enjoyable.

I don't understand how it rates as a "Gothic," however. Barclay Manor is well-polished, modern, opulent. The story focuses more on interpersonal/social difficulties -- particularly as regards romantic rivals -- than anything else. :-\ The romances blow up far too fast; there are two serious marriage proposals which occur within the space of a few weeks[?!]. The basic mood of the novel is catiness (a serious negative with me). The women in the story just don't like each other, with the exception of Lavinia Barclay (the elderly millionaire widow) and Nurse Nancy.

The only "nod" to Gothic imo would be the unbelievable "sudden day out" Nurse Nancy has with Greg to the home of Washington Irving. Their being fans of Sleepy Hollow, site-seeing Irving's home and "the old Dutch Church" and nearby cemetery are the only spooky happenings. And of course there's Mrs. Barclay seemingly menaced by people who might profit from her placement in an institution. We are wondering throughout the novel if she's truly okay (aside from being manipulated and medicated) or if she is truly ill and an unpredictable danger. That element is left unknown until the end.

The mention of "loco weed" was funny. :D

The author has a rich storytelling style. I just wish her focus would have been different. I couldn't hardly visualize the characters, except that Mrs. Barclay would be portrayed by Harriet MacGibbon (age 63), John Ferguson by Jack Nicholson (age 40), and Nurse Nancy by Barbara Feldon (age 27).]]>
Mixed thoughts on the story itself. It's well crafted. Characters are strong. Nurse Nancy Bronson is enjoyable.

I don't understand how it rates as a "Gothic," however. Barclay Manor is well-polished, modern, opulent. The story focuses more on interpersonal/social difficulties -- particularly as regards romantic rivals -- than anything else. :-\ The romances blow up far too fast; there are two serious marriage proposals which occur within the space of a few weeks[?!]. The basic mood of the novel is catiness (a serious negative with me). The women in the story just don't like each other, with the exception of Lavinia Barclay (the elderly millionaire widow) and Nurse Nancy.

The only "nod" to Gothic imo would be the unbelievable "sudden day out" Nurse Nancy has with Greg to the home of Washington Irving. Their being fans of Sleepy Hollow, site-seeing Irving's home and "the old Dutch Church" and nearby cemetery are the only spooky happenings. And of course there's Mrs. Barclay seemingly menaced by people who might profit from her placement in an institution. We are wondering throughout the novel if she's truly okay (aside from being manipulated and medicated) or if she is truly ill and an unpredictable danger. That element is left unknown until the end.

The mention of "loco weed" was funny. :D

The author has a rich storytelling style. I just wish her focus would have been different. I couldn't hardly visualize the characters, except that Mrs. Barclay would be portrayed by Harriet MacGibbon (age 63), John Ferguson by Jack Nicholson (age 40), and Nurse Nancy by Barbara Feldon (age 27).]]> http://www.gothicromanceforum.com/showthread.php?tid=207 Sun, 29 Jun 2008 15:41:32 -0700 http://www.gothicromanceforum.com/showthread.php?tid=207
It is about an artist who is invited to a New England coast town to recuperate from an illness. While there, he becomes involved in the lives of the people of the community. When a murder occurs, he finds himself caught up in the middle of it.

While it may not be a true Gothic romance, I felt this was a very good book. I'd give it an "A".]]>
It is about an artist who is invited to a New England coast town to recuperate from an illness. While there, he becomes involved in the lives of the people of the community. When a murder occurs, he finds himself caught up in the middle of it.

While it may not be a true Gothic romance, I felt this was a very good book. I'd give it an "A".]]> http://www.gothicromanceforum.com/showthread.php?tid=206 Sun, 29 Jun 2008 15:31:55 -0700 http://www.gothicromanceforum.com/showthread.php?tid=206
Our heroine in this story is Freya, who goes to Norway for a summer job and ends up staying on by accident. However, it was manipulated for her to stay. During that time, she begins to uncover the mystery of her past, a past she did not know existed. The story revolves around events that occurred during WWII and the resolution depended on solving the mystery of some hidden treasure from the war.

Overall, the story was pretty good. I didn't like the fact that our heroine falls in love with a perfect stranger on sight and remains completely faithful to her memory of him. I just felt that romance was rushed. I'd give this a "B+" as well.]]>
Our heroine in this story is Freya, who goes to Norway for a summer job and ends up staying on by accident. However, it was manipulated for her to stay. During that time, she begins to uncover the mystery of her past, a past she did not know existed. The story revolves around events that occurred during WWII and the resolution depended on solving the mystery of some hidden treasure from the war.

Overall, the story was pretty good. I didn't like the fact that our heroine falls in love with a perfect stranger on sight and remains completely faithful to her memory of him. I just felt that romance was rushed. I'd give this a "B+" as well.]]> http://www.gothicromanceforum.com/showthread.php?tid=205 Sun, 29 Jun 2008 15:24:01 -0700 http://www.gothicromanceforum.com/showthread.php?tid=205
I enjoyed this one for several reasons. First, it was historical. It takes place in New York at the turn of the 20th century. Secondly, the characters are not stiff or too stereotyped. There were actually two heroines in this one. Although I could guess who were the "bad guys" in this one, there were a few surprises as well.

I'll give this one an "A".]]>
I enjoyed this one for several reasons. First, it was historical. It takes place in New York at the turn of the 20th century. Secondly, the characters are not stiff or too stereotyped. There were actually two heroines in this one. Although I could guess who were the "bad guys" in this one, there were a few surprises as well.

I'll give this one an "A".]]> http://www.gothicromanceforum.com/showthread.php?tid=204 Sun, 29 Jun 2008 15:07:27 -0700 http://www.gothicromanceforum.com/showthread.php?tid=204
This seemed to me a very typical historical British Gothic romance, not superbly told, but it was well-done for me. The romance is there without being overwhelming. You might say the hero is somewhat an alpha male but I didn't care. I didn't like any of the alternatives in this one.

I'd give this one a "B+".]]>
This seemed to me a very typical historical British Gothic romance, not superbly told, but it was well-done for me. The romance is there without being overwhelming. You might say the hero is somewhat an alpha male but I didn't care. I didn't like any of the alternatives in this one.

I'd give this one a "B+".]]> http://www.gothicromanceforum.com/showthread.php?tid=203 Sun, 29 Jun 2008 14:57:33 -0700 http://www.gothicromanceforum.com/showthread.php?tid=203
The story essentially is about a young woman who returns to Ireland after seven years in the US. She had left after breaking up with her fiance, and now returns for her aunt's funeral. She encounters danger as she amateurishly investigates her aunt's death.

Even in my limited experience, this story seemed like a very amateur Gothic romance. There was too much detail on minor (I mean, minuscule) elements, such as the heroine's clothing. It's as if she was obsessed with her looks. Then more important things are just rushed through. The ending was very rushed.

I'd have to give this one a "C-", mostly because it did not drag, at least. It doesn't seem to contribute much to the Gothic romance, but I guess it didn't detract too much, either.]]>
The story essentially is about a young woman who returns to Ireland after seven years in the US. She had left after breaking up with her fiance, and now returns for her aunt's funeral. She encounters danger as she amateurishly investigates her aunt's death.

Even in my limited experience, this story seemed like a very amateur Gothic romance. There was too much detail on minor (I mean, minuscule) elements, such as the heroine's clothing. It's as if she was obsessed with her looks. Then more important things are just rushed through. The ending was very rushed.

I'd have to give this one a "C-", mostly because it did not drag, at least. It doesn't seem to contribute much to the Gothic romance, but I guess it didn't detract too much, either.]]> http://www.gothicromanceforum.com/showthread.php?tid=202 Sun, 29 Jun 2008 14:50:17 -0700 http://www.gothicromanceforum.com/showthread.php?tid=202 http://www.gothicromanceforum.com/showthread.php?tid=201 Sun, 29 Jun 2008 12:16:54 -0700 http://www.gothicromanceforum.com/showthread.php?tid=201
Would this fit with the forum?]]>
Would this fit with the forum?]]> http://www.gothicromanceforum.com/showthread.php?tid=200 Sat, 28 Jun 2008 19:34:29 -0700 http://www.gothicromanceforum.com/showthread.php?tid=200
English professor Karen Holloway is an expert in Gothic literature. She finds a "lost masterpiece" of a 19th century writer named Ismene. The book is written in the Gothic tradition, but the author is a mystery. Karen tries to unmask the writer, but finds herself in the middle of a ghost story from old Virginia.

Here's the good stuff....

1. First and foremost, I learned A LOT about Gothic romance and literature. Karen Holloway is a professor and Michaels laces the story with a lot of information and literary analysis. This is really why I'm going as high as an A-.

2. Michaels is a feminist writer and she has a definite issue with how women writers have been overlooked by academia. She is a very strong advocate for their writing and it comes through in this book.

3. Great quotes in the beginning of each chapter.

4. The guy Karen falls for is the guy I wanted her to fall for.

5. Michaels writes some very eerie scenes. Great ghost writer.

What was bad....

1. Barbara Michaels should NOT write humor. Sometimes she tries to be funny, but the writing just seems corny to me.

2. There can be too much of a good thing. Sometimes the feminism is a little over the top, where she's hitting you over the head with her point. I get it okay!

3. Karen's adventures with her friends sometimes reminded me of a Nancy Drew caper where she had to hook up with her "chums."

4. The romance only really lasted about a page! Pah!

But the good way overshadowed the bad, and I would recommend this for sure.]]>
English professor Karen Holloway is an expert in Gothic literature. She finds a "lost masterpiece" of a 19th century writer named Ismene. The book is written in the Gothic tradition, but the author is a mystery. Karen tries to unmask the writer, but finds herself in the middle of a ghost story from old Virginia.

Here's the good stuff....

1. First and foremost, I learned A LOT about Gothic romance and literature. Karen Holloway is a professor and Michaels laces the story with a lot of information and literary analysis. This is really why I'm going as high as an A-.

2. Michaels is a feminist writer and she has a definite issue with how women writers have been overlooked by academia. She is a very strong advocate for their writing and it comes through in this book.

3. Great quotes in the beginning of each chapter.

4. The guy Karen falls for is the guy I wanted her to fall for.

5. Michaels writes some very eerie scenes. Great ghost writer.

What was bad....

1. Barbara Michaels should NOT write humor. Sometimes she tries to be funny, but the writing just seems corny to me.

2. There can be too much of a good thing. Sometimes the feminism is a little over the top, where she's hitting you over the head with her point. I get it okay!

3. Karen's adventures with her friends sometimes reminded me of a Nancy Drew caper where she had to hook up with her "chums."

4. The romance only really lasted about a page! Pah!

But the good way overshadowed the bad, and I would recommend this for sure.]]> http://www.gothicromanceforum.com/showthread.php?tid=199 Sat, 28 Jun 2008 14:36:42 -0700 http://www.gothicromanceforum.com/showthread.php?tid=199
The heroines are the resourceful, intelligent, kindly, capable, efficient types of women I grew up admiring and trying to emulate.

The stories are gender equitable and fair [towards men] as well. That's another plus.

After years of having my feminine self-ideal and identity eroded somewhat (as it turns out, more than I'd realized; due to a series of unpleasant circumstances), these novels and their worthy heroines are re-strengthening/replenishing my feminine self-ideal and identity. :)

If I may indulge a bit: Girl power!! :D]]>
The heroines are the resourceful, intelligent, kindly, capable, efficient types of women I grew up admiring and trying to emulate.

The stories are gender equitable and fair [towards men] as well. That's another plus.

After years of having my feminine self-ideal and identity eroded somewhat (as it turns out, more than I'd realized; due to a series of unpleasant circumstances), these novels and their worthy heroines are re-strengthening/replenishing my feminine self-ideal and identity. :)

If I may indulge a bit: Girl power!! :D]]> http://www.gothicromanceforum.com/showthread.php?tid=197 Fri, 27 Jun 2008 08:00:20 -0700 http://www.gothicromanceforum.com/showthread.php?tid=197
This novel is on par with Stephen King's The Shining and Ira Levin's Rosemary's Baby, imo.

Gwen Carroll is a young journalist residing in Toronto, Ontario. She's suffered a couple of tragic losses in her life and is determined to be socially isolated. She's not bitter, but simply doesn't want to experience the pain of tragic loss again. And so she's safely esconced inside her private walls ... until the night she hears a woman screaming for help down her apartment hallway. There's a scuffle; a man is trying to forcibly take the crying child from her mother. Gwen hurries to help the woman. Gwen recognizes the woman as involved in investigating psychic activity; Gwen has recently been in the same company exploring the alleged hauntings of a nearby opulent estate, Nine Oaks. The group of would-be ghost busters is led by the handsome and charming Prof. Robert Wildfield, with whom Gwen is soon smitten.

Gwen quickly grows curious about Nonnie Richards and her dangerous situation, especially as a little girl [Laura] is involved. She is torn between fiercely maintaining her privacy and "don't get involved" sentiments versus reaching out.

It doesn't take long for Gwen to decide the right thing to do is involve herself. Maude (a now-deceased foster mother and spiritual mentor) wouldn't expect anything less from Gwen.

And so Nonnie Richards and Laura move into Gwen's apartment. The man who attempted to steal Laura away continues with stalking Nonnie's apartment and trying to break in.

Just when it seems Nonnie and Laura are off to live with a wealthy and caring uncle at the nearby secure Lion's Head estate, Gwen is unexpectedly swept back into their lives.

And then the action really starts.

The story is fast (yet smoothly) paced, characterization is strong, the descriptions unfold in the mind's eye like a movie. Gwen is a true heroine. She's brave, intelligent, conscientious, caring. Someone I'd definitely want at MY back in a dangerous situation.

A major strong point is the author leaves you guessing until the very end (with one notable exception) who the good versus bad guys are, as peripheral characters go. I had a hunch about two of them...and was proven wrong.

Keys of Hell is a true page-turner and a delight.

The cast of characters as I visualized them [drawing from quite an assortment of actors/-tresses through the years; they simply came into my mind's eye as these actors]:

Gwen Carroll: Mia Farrow [age 24]
Nonnie Richards: Liv Tyler [age 24] (was especially fun visualizing her with hair/clothing of the era; she's so beautiful)
Prof. Robert Wildfield: Harrison Ford [age 32]
Ben Potter: Fred MacMurray [age 55]
Mrs. Heaslip: Clarice Blackburn [age 50]
Nicolas Dessaix: David Selby [age 30]
Mrs. Thornby: Emmaline Henry [age 45]]]>
This novel is on par with Stephen King's The Shining and Ira Levin's Rosemary's Baby, imo.

Gwen Carroll is a young journalist residing in Toronto, Ontario. She's suffered a couple of tragic losses in her life and is determined to be socially isolated. She's not bitter, but simply doesn't want to experience the pain of tragic loss again. And so she's safely esconced inside her private walls ... until the night she hears a woman screaming for help down her apartment hallway. There's a scuffle; a man is trying to forcibly take the crying child from her mother. Gwen hurries to help the woman. Gwen recognizes the woman as involved in investigating psychic activity; Gwen has recently been in the same company exploring the alleged hauntings of a nearby opulent estate, Nine Oaks. The group of would-be ghost busters is led by the handsome and charming Prof. Robert Wildfield, with whom Gwen is soon smitten.

Gwen quickly grows curious about Nonnie Richards and her dangerous situation, especially as a little girl [Laura] is involved. She is torn between fiercely maintaining her privacy and "don't get involved" sentiments versus reaching out.

It doesn't take long for Gwen to decide the right thing to do is involve herself. Maude (a now-deceased foster mother and spiritual mentor) wouldn't expect anything less from Gwen.

And so Nonnie Richards and Laura move into Gwen's apartment. The man who attempted to steal Laura away continues with stalking Nonnie's apartment and trying to break in.

Just when it seems Nonnie and Laura are off to live with a wealthy and caring uncle at the nearby secure Lion's Head estate, Gwen is unexpectedly swept back into their lives.

And then the action really starts.

The story is fast (yet smoothly) paced, characterization is strong, the descriptions unfold in the mind's eye like a movie. Gwen is a true heroine. She's brave, intelligent, conscientious, caring. Someone I'd definitely want at MY back in a dangerous situation.

A major strong point is the author leaves you guessing until the very end (with one notable exception) who the good versus bad guys are, as peripheral characters go. I had a hunch about two of them...and was proven wrong.

Keys of Hell is a true page-turner and a delight.

The cast of characters as I visualized them [drawing from quite an assortment of actors/-tresses through the years; they simply came into my mind's eye as these actors]:

Gwen Carroll: Mia Farrow [age 24]
Nonnie Richards: Liv Tyler [age 24] (was especially fun visualizing her with hair/clothing of the era; she's so beautiful)
Prof. Robert Wildfield: Harrison Ford [age 32]
Ben Potter: Fred MacMurray [age 55]
Mrs. Heaslip: Clarice Blackburn [age 50]
Nicolas Dessaix: David Selby [age 30]
Mrs. Thornby: Emmaline Henry [age 45]]]> http://www.gothicromanceforum.com/showthread.php?tid=196 Sat, 21 Jun 2008 12:39:14 -0700 http://www.gothicromanceforum.com/showthread.php?tid=196
One was The Mark of the Rope by Miriam Lynch. Later looked over each book more carefully; more closely examined the cover art, re-read the back description, etc. True bibliophiles understand. ;)

Anyway, in the middle of this novel I find a huge splotch of what looks like very old blood. :( It wasn't coffee; hopefully was it soda. But it was soaked clean through two pages, and onto a 3rd. I've known blood stains on paper to do that. :( And the edges of these pages were smooth and flat; not wrinkled like water will do. I like being creeped out by these novels, but not like that.

I tossed the book and ordered another copy via alibris.com.

Anyone else here have an "unpleasant surprise in a book" story to share?]]>
One was The Mark of the Rope by Miriam Lynch. Later looked over each book more carefully; more closely examined the cover art, re-read the back description, etc. True bibliophiles understand. ;)

Anyway, in the middle of this novel I find a huge splotch of what looks like very old blood. :( It wasn't coffee; hopefully was it soda. But it was soaked clean through two pages, and onto a 3rd. I've known blood stains on paper to do that. :( And the edges of these pages were smooth and flat; not wrinkled like water will do. I like being creeped out by these novels, but not like that.

I tossed the book and ordered another copy via alibris.com.

Anyone else here have an "unpleasant surprise in a book" story to share?]]> http://www.gothicromanceforum.com/showthread.php?tid=195 Thu, 19 Jun 2008 08:14:34 -0700 http://www.gothicromanceforum.com/showthread.php?tid=195
I was born in 1965 and my parents became anti-social in the early '70s, so there was no "let's have coffee at 8 PM" with friends at our home.

Last evening while reading the current novel (will review it when finished), sure enough the heroine prepares coffee (and toast) before turning in for the night.

Characters always brewing up a pot of coffee whether it's morning or mid-afternoon or late evening. Caffeine past 6 PM?? Not for me. But it's cool in the stories. :cool:

It's a nice social graces touch. Social graces are, at least in this area, mostly dead. Many of these stories are bringing back certain memories of when people were more willingly connected. I miss those days...]]>
I was born in 1965 and my parents became anti-social in the early '70s, so there was no "let's have coffee at 8 PM" with friends at our home.

Last evening while reading the current novel (will review it when finished), sure enough the heroine prepares coffee (and toast) before turning in for the night.

Characters always brewing up a pot of coffee whether it's morning or mid-afternoon or late evening. Caffeine past 6 PM?? Not for me. But it's cool in the stories. :cool:

It's a nice social graces touch. Social graces are, at least in this area, mostly dead. Many of these stories are bringing back certain memories of when people were more willingly connected. I miss those days...]]>