The Graveside Bride
A rhyming gothic ghost story about a solicitor haunted by a vengeful spirit.
Angela Goldsmith presents The Graveside Bride, a short story published in 2021 that blends the styles of Edgar Allan Poe, Wilkie Collins, and Charles Dickens. The narrative follows Mr. Lawrence Pinchpenny, a lowly solicitor at a prominent London law firm during the year 1874. His existence unravels on a dark night when he encounters the ghostly apparition known as The Woman in Grey. This spectre, identified as the Graveside Bride, invades his dreams with malicious intent. The spirit seeks to force Pinchpenny to experience intense guilt, regret, and despair. Her primary motivation appears to be revenge for a sorrowful tale from her past, though the text leaves questions about his specific role in her misfortune unanswered. The author structures this gothic tale of woe using verse rather than standard prose, creating a rhythm that echoes Poe's famous poem. The work examines themes of haunting and retribution within a Victorian setting. Readers who enjoy atmospheric mystery and poetic horror will find this text engaging. Those seeking fast-paced action or non-fiction historical analysis may find the slow, rhyming descent into despair less appealing. The volume also includes a preview of the next novel by Goldsmith, titled MR BONE JANGLES.
The story is set in London during 1874, drawing directly on the Gothic tradition of the period. It aligns with the literary heritage of Wilkie Collins and Charles Dickens, reflecting the era's fascination with spectral visitations and moral reckoning.
📝 Description: The Graveside Bride
💎 Our verdict on The Graveside Bride
📖 Why choose it
Why this book is worth reading
Readers who appreciate atmospheric mystery and poetic horror will find this text engaging due to its unique structural approach. The narrative employs verse rather than standard prose, creating a rhythmic descent into despair that echoes the style of Edgar Allan Poe. This format appeals to those who enjoy slow-burning tension over fast-paced action or non-fiction historical analysis. The story offers a deep dive into themes of haunting and retribution within a Victorian setting, providing an immersive experience for fans of gothic ghost stories. It is ideal for audiences seeking a blend of psychological unease and literary homage, rather than conventional plot-driven horror.
⭐ Reader reviews
Reader rating
The Graveside Bride successfully merges the stylistic elements of Poe, Collins, and Dickens into a cohesive short story format. By utilizing verse, Goldsmith creates a haunting rhythm that enhances the gothic tone, making the specter's presence feel both immediate and timeless. The focus on Mr. Pinchpenny’s psychological deterioration offers a compelling study in guilt and regret. While the slow pace may deter those seeking quick thrills, it suits readers who prefer atmospheric depth. The inclusion of a preview for MR BONE JANGLES adds value for dedicated followers. It is a strong entry for collections focused on poetic horror and Victorian ghost lore.
📖 Read on the blog
✍️ More books by this author Angela Goldsmith
🏛 Books from this publisher Independently Published
You might also like
See more →
Have a question about this item?
Ask about the edition, condition, delivery or anything else — we reply by email or phone, usually within a day.
