Gothic Literature Book Reviews

  The Kirk, the Deil and the Grue Atween by Barbara Stevenson, published by Luna Press Publishing, 2026. This is a non-fiction book, exploring what makes Scottish Gothic fiction. The subgenre of Scottish Gothic fiction can be traced back to the beginning of the nineteenth century, with authors such as James Hogg and Walter Scott. Throughout the intervening years authors have expanded the subgenre, and modern writers, whilst adhering to traditional Gothic tropes, aim to forge new pathways. This book takes specific features of Gothic fiction and explores how they have been adapted to suit a Scottish tradition. It also looks at specifically Scottish tropes which feature in Gothic writing, such as the Reformation of the church in Scotland, and the interference of King James VI in the infamous witch trials. The Scottish landscape and its role in providing an isolated backdrop is looked at. Edinburgh, a 'mad god's dream'  according to the poet Hugh McDiarmid, is given a chapter o...

We Have Always Lived in the Castle by Shirley Jackson, first published in the USA by Viking Press in 1962. This is a short novel/novella about mental illness, social pressures and isolation. Mary Katherine Blackwood, known as Merricat, lives in the family's large house in an unnamed New England town, with her elder sister, Constance, and her invalid uncle. Six years previously, her mother, father, brother and an aunt died from arsenic poisoning. The arsenic was in the sugar bowl. Constance was arrested, but acquitted. The townsfolk, however, believe she was guilty and only got off because the family were rich and influential. Since the trial, Constance has not ventured from the house and its garden, devoting her life to looking after Merricat and her uncle and spending most of the time cooking. The story is told from the viewpoint of Merricat, who was twelve when the murders occurred. She was not at the table as she had been sent to her room for misbehaviour. She is now eighteen, ...