Read mainly because I would like to see the play (and upcoming film), The Woman in Black has been one of my rare forays into ghostly fiction.
This well known and popular story revolves around a young solicitor, Arthur Kipps, who is sent to a small town on the east coast of England to attend the funeral of an elderly widow. While tending to the deceased's affairs, Kipps decides to stay in her home, the secluded Eel Marsh house, accessible only at low tide. There he is subject to the hauntings associated with the area...the sounds of a horse and cart, the screams of a drowning child and himself sees the apparition of the infamous Woman in Black.
I really enjoyed this tense and atmospheric gothic tale. I really felt for the young and naive Arthur Kipps, a man who is determined to do his job well and impress his boss, thus making a good life for himself and the woman he loves. I won't ruin the story for anyone who does not already know it - all I will say is, although this feels like a simple ghost story, it still surprised me! Hill masters the simplicity of horror and tension so much that I barely noticed I was on the edge of my seat until I allowed myself to breathe again!
I've heard nothing but good things about the stage play, which I hope to see this year if its still on. And now I am curious about the forthcoming film, starring...Daniel Radcliffe of all people! I am a latecomer to this type of thriller fiction - can you recommend any other titles?
Other blog reviews:
A Striped Armchair
Book Gazing
Melody's Reading Corner
Things Mean A Lot
Sunday, February 20, 2011
The Woman in Black - Susan Hill
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7 comments:
The atmosphere was pretty much perfect, wasn't it? I'd also love to see the stage adaptation.
Oh, I saw this play maybe 10 years ago. It was wonderful! The only play I've ever seen where audience members actually screamed in fright. Teehee! Very atmospheric.
Nymeth - Apparently they are taking tickets for up til December this year ;)
Darla - Ooh you have me excited now!
This review has me super excited to read this book! After I'm through I'm sure my mother would love it too...just have soooo many books on my plate at the moment but this is definately on my list!
http://desertfurwheat.blogspot.com/
Cassie - I know what its like to have such a long list of books to get through! I hope you enjoy this one ;)
This is a lovely review of a book that I read and loved too! I agree, scary and deliciously atmospheric. One of the best ghost stories that I've read, ever. It still haunts me to this day. I hope you get tickets to the play, and please let us know how it is!!
Susa - will do ;)
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