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Rayne Hall
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Writing Gothic Fiction: Learn to Thrill Readers with Passion and Suspense (Writer's Craft) Kindle Edition

by Rayne Hall (Author) Format: Kindle Edition
4.7 4.7 out of 5 stars 98 ratings
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Romantic and creepy, passionate and thrilling, Gothic fiction grabs readers and makes their hearts thud with excited suspense.

This is the genre of dark secrets, forbidden loves and illicit passions, of ancient curses and evil crimes. Brooding heroes, wealthy eccentrics, obsessed scientists and corrupt priests come to live in these tales, often joined by a ghost, werewolf, vampire or supernatural hound.

Stories are set in gloomy old houses and spooky mansions. Picture wild, windswept landscapes, s0mbre clouds and torrential rain. Stolen jewels, vile murders, an unexpected inheritance, bigamy, madness, illicit love and dangerous inventions keep the readers glued to the pages.

Gothic is one of the oldest fiction genres, with classic masterpieces like Wuthering Heights, Jane Eyre, Frankenstein, Dracula, Rebecca and The Fall of the House of Usher. In the 21st century, they are represented many Thrillers and Romance novels on current bestseller lists.

The most successful works of literature blend Gothic with other genres - especially Romance, Horror and Thriller - with the Gothic elements ratcheting up tension and enveloping the reader in suspense.

So you want to try your hand at writing a Gothic story? Maybe you have a draft novel in another genre that needs more passion and thrills? I'll be your guide, showing you step by step how to craft a Gothic tale.

This book is for experienced writers who want to add to their toolkit. If you're new to the craft of fiction writing, you can still enjoy this book and pick up useful techniques, but writers who've already mastered the basics of their craft will benefit most.

Are you ready to delve into the mystery and excitement of the Gothic tale? Let's open the portal the old mansion. Can you hear the hinges squeal? Duck under the cobwebs, and mind that trap door under your feet. Take a few steps on the threadbare crimson carpet while I light a candle to show you the way.
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  1. Part of series
    Writer's Craft
  2. Print length
    184 pages
  3. Language
    English
  4. Publication date
    September 10, 2019
  5. File size
    2.9 MB
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Writer's Craft
Writer's Craft
Bundle price: Kindle price
$14.97
Bundle price: Kindle price
$22.95
Bundle price: Kindle price
$47.90
Bundle price: Kindle price
$175.62
By placing your order, you're purchasing a license to the content and you agree to the Kindle Store Terms of Use.

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Product details

  • ASIN ‏ : ‎ B07VV357Y6
  • Publication date ‏ : ‎ September 10, 2019
  • Language ‏ : ‎ English
  • File size ‏ : ‎ 2.9 MB
  • Text-to-Speech ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • Screen Reader ‏ : ‎ Supported
  • Enhanced typesetting ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • X-Ray ‏ : ‎ Not Enabled
  • Word Wise ‏ : ‎ Not Enabled
  • Print length ‏ : ‎ 184 pages
  • Customer Reviews:
    4.7 4.7 out of 5 stars 98 ratings

About the author

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Rayne Hall

Rayne Hall

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Rayne Hall MA is the author of over 100 books, mostly Dark Fantasy and Gothic Horror, e.g. The Bride’s Curse: Bulgarian Gothic Ghost and Horror Stories. She is also the acclaimed editor of Gothic, Fantasy and Horror anthologies (e.g. Among the Headstones: Creepy Tales from the Graveyard) and author of the bestselling Writer’s Craft series for advanced-level writers, including and the bestselling Writer’s Craft series e.g. Writing Gothic Fiction Writing Scary Scenes, Writing Vivid Settings, Writing Vivid Dialogue, Writing Vivid Characters, Writing Deep Point of View.

Born and raised in Germany, Rayne Hall has lived in China, Mongolia, Nepal and Britain. Now she resides in a village in Bulgaria, where men perform the annual demon dance, ghosts and sirens beckon, and abandoned decaying houses hold memories of a glorious past.

Her lucky black rescue cat Sulu often accompanies her when she explores spooky derelict buildings. He delights in walking across shattered roof tiles, scratching charred timbers and sniffing at long-abandoned hearths. He even senses the presence of ghosts… but that’s another story.

Rayne has worked as an investigative journalist, development aid worker, museum guide, apple picker, tarot reader, adult education teacher, belly dancer, magazine editor, publishing manager and more, and now writes full time.

Customer reviews

4.7 out of 5 stars
98 global ratings

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Customers say

Customers find the book easy to understand and follow, with clear explanations and examples. They describe it as a wonderful resource for writers of Gothic and suspense books. The advice is helpful and inspiring, with practical examples that add richness to writing. Readers appreciate the author's focus on specific areas of writing, which adds depth and unique flavor to their work.

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Ease of useAuthor biographyAdvice levelWriting style
7 customers mention "Ease of use"7 positive0 negative

Customers find the book easy to understand and follow, with clear explanations and examples. It leads them through the process step-by-step, identifying ticks in an interesting and accessible manner. The presentation is clear and straightforward, with exercises in each chapter to help apply what they read. Readers appreciate the detailed information, lists of titles to get started, and clear citations.

"...a slice of her knowledge and shared it in an interesting and accessible manner. “..." Read more

"...that makes a Gothic fiction novel tick is explained in an easy-to-understand way...." Read more

"...fantasy, paranormal, horror or mystery tale, this book leads you through the process, step-by-step, of identifying the set-pieces of a "traditional..." Read more

"...to appreciate Gothic fiction as a reader, and Hall lists plenty of titles to get you started...." Read more

5 customers mention "Author biography"5 positive0 negative

Customers appreciate the author's biography. They find it a useful resource for writers and readers of Gothic and suspenseful books. The book includes one of the author's own stories, as well as clear explanations and examples from other authors. Readers also appreciate the suggestions for ideas to include in novels or short stories. Overall, it is described as an interesting and accessible read.

"...Rayne Hall has taken a slice of her knowledge and shared it in an interesting and accessible manner. “..." Read more

"...I loved her tips on genre-crossing (Gothic with other literary genres) and completely agree that doing so adds a unique flavor and richness to one's..." Read more

"...I like that Hall not only suggests ideas to include in your novel or short story, but also advises when to hold back, so your writing project won’t..." Read more

"...The book is very easy to follow, with clear explanations and examples of well-authors...." Read more

4 customers mention "Advice level"4 positive0 negative

Customers find the book helpful with valuable advice and practical tips. They say it helps them organize their ideas and is inspiring.

"...I am new to creative writing and this book helped me put together all of the ideas I had floating around aimlessly in a word document...." Read more

"...If you like literary technique books that are fun to read and loaded with practical and inspiring tips, BUY THIS BOOK ASAP!" Read more

"Helpful, Actionable..." Read more

"Incredibly helpful!..." Read more

4 customers mention "Writing style"4 positive0 negative

Customers appreciate the writing style. They find it focused on a specific area of writing, adding a unique flavor and richness to their writing. The book provides text examples and writing craft tips on how to evoke them. It covers not just writing but also challenges, pitfalls, and rewards of writing in this genre.

"...They are always focused on a specific area of writing and are suggested in this book as aids for those who feel their skills could be positively..." Read more

"...One of my favorite things about this book is that she doesn't just cover writing...." Read more

"...and completely agree that doing so adds a unique flavor and richness to one's writing...." Read more

"...to just about every prominent aspect of gothic fiction, several text examples for each, plus writing craft tips on how to evoke them to the..." Read more

Top reviews from the United States

  • Dee Arr
    5.0 out of 5 stars Another Book For Your Writing Shelf!
    Reviewed in the United States on September 11, 2019
    Verified Purchase
    Once again, author Rayne Hall has taken a slice of her knowledge and shared it in an interesting and accessible manner. “Writing Gothic Fiction” presents the challenges, pitfalls, and rewards of writing a book or a short story in this genre.

    Ms. Hall offers a few cautions up front, letting us know that her target audience for this book are experienced writers seeking to add to their skills (although she does add that anyone can pick up some useful techniques). We are also told that the tips in this book are not “rules” but aids to improve every author’s individual talents.

    The book then launches into 27 chapters of usable knowledge. Ms. Hall explains the genre of gothic fiction while encouraging you to consider blending it with other genres you might already be comfortable writing. Other chapters describe every aspect one could think of, ranging from setting to standard character types to how different POVs can shape the eventual shape of your book. Each chapter also contains a hint of WHAT NOT TO DO, always followed by exercises designed to get your hands dirty by practicing what you have just learned.

    Some folks new to Rayne Hall’s books might be put off by her suggestions to seek out other books she has written. Having read several of her other offerings (and some she recommends in this book), I encourage everyone to seriously consider taking a look at these books. They are always focused on a specific area of writing and are suggested in this book as aids for those who feel their skills could be positively affected with further study. For those interested in this genre, “Writing Gothic Fiction” is a solid addition to your writing shelf. Five stars.
    6 people found this helpful
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  • florencia gianinetto
    5.0 out of 5 stars Exactly what I needed!
    Reviewed in the United States on October 27, 2019
    Verified Purchase
    I am aspiring to write a Gothic Fiction novel so I was thrilled at the release of Rayne Hall's new book! I am new to creative writing and this book helped me put together all of the ideas I had floating around aimlessly in a word document. Every element that makes a Gothic fiction novel tick is explained in an easy-to-understand way.

    One of my favorite things about this book is that she doesn't just cover writing. She includes invaluable insider tips throughout the book about what the entire process encompasses. The author encourages readers to do research online, actually go out and visit places, and don't make the sun set or rise in the wrong direction. These tips may seem small but can easily be overlooked. There is a set of assignments at the end of every chapter where you can apply your newly gained knowledge to your writing.

    After reading this book, I feel confident and pointed in the right direction. Thank you Rayne Hall!
    2 people found this helpful
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  • Jessica A
    4.0 out of 5 stars A Helpful Guide To Gothic Fiction
    Reviewed in the United States on May 26, 2020
    I love a good spooky gothic book, from the content to the stereotypical lady in a gauzy dress fleeing on the cover, so I decided to try reading about writing one.

    Overall, I found this to be helpful. The author talks tropes and other aspects of the genre, often giving examples from famous books/authors (side note: it's nice to have a writing book giving examples that aren't just from their own writing). Sometimes it's a bit repetitive, especially if you're reading it in a sitting or two, but most of the advice seems solid.

    It's a solid book, and it's not like there are a lot of other writing books on the gothic genre, so if you're looking for one, this may be your best option.
    3 people found this helpful
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  • Anna Erishkigal
    5.0 out of 5 stars Put the "Goth" into Gothic fiction
    Reviewed in the United States on October 11, 2019
    Verified Purchase
    Whether you're a fan of 19th-century Gothic romance, or would simply like to add a bit of "mood" to your contemporary romantic, fantasy, paranormal, horror or mystery tale, this book leads you through the process, step-by-step, of identifying the set-pieces of a "traditional" Gothic novel, and then evaluating when (if) those same set pieces can be successfully used to enhance your novel.

    What's nice about this book is that it cites lots of (mostly out-of-copyright) historical examples of Gothic fiction to accentuate each Gothic "set piece" so that you can see how each block builds upon the other set pieces to build a "Gothic atmosphere." The problem with many writing books is the author is limited (due to copyright reasons) to either only quote their own fiction (which you might not have read), or to quote obscure examples which aren't very helpful, but in this case, Jane Eyre, Wuthering Heights, and Edgar Allen Poe are all available for free on Project Gutenberg if you wish to read more on how to apply the skill, while examples such as The Haunting of Hill House have enjoyed a modern resurgence so that most readers will be familiar with the example.

    I will definitely be referring back to this book often to add a bit of "Gothic atmosphere" to my latest work-in-progress! Recommend!
    2 people found this helpful
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  • Scarlett Red
    5.0 out of 5 stars This Book is a Wonderful Resource for Writers of Gothic AND Suspense Books!
    Reviewed in the United States on November 17, 2020
    Verified Purchase
    I bought Rayne Hall's "Writing Gothic Fiction: Learn to Thrill Readers with Passion and Suspense" to get some tips on how to create effective atmospheric and memorable descriptions in my writing. Wow--I learned this and so much more!

    She does a wonderful job at explaining how to best describe weather, which I was fairly weak at prior to reading the book. I loved her tips on genre-crossing (Gothic with other literary genres) and completely agree that doing so adds a unique flavor and richness to one's writing. My biggest writing flaw for years has been rushing through the moments in my writing that have the most dramatic impact (e.g. the Climax, as well as other critical plot points.) Ms. Hall does an AMAZING job in illustrating how to slow down during these crucial moments and how to pack the biggest emotional punch at these times.

    I loved this book so much that I bought several more of her books, and I can't wait to read them. If you like literary technique books that are fun to read and loaded with practical and inspiring tips, BUY THIS BOOK ASAP!
    One person found this helpful
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Top reviews from other countries

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  • Phillip Thomas
    5.0 out of 5 stars Excellent aid for aspiring writers
    Reviewed in the United Kingdom on September 13, 2021
    Verified Purchase
    I am currently starting my new series of horror short stories, novellas and novels. The first novel is all but done, and the second well under way. However, I knew that I needed professional help to hone them. I ordered this book as soon as I saw it. It was so helpful that I read it in one sitting. I have subsequently read it several time, highlighting those elements most appropriate to my writing. It was so good that I have purchased most of Rayne Hall's book, and am finding them excellent aids for the aspiring writer.
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  • MT
    5.0 out of 5 stars Práctico
    Reviewed in Spain on March 1, 2021
    Verified Purchase
    Es un libro práctico que no se anda por las ramas. Me ha gustado mucho y creo que será útil.
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  • Mim
    5.0 out of 5 stars Very helpful and inspiring
    Reviewed in Germany on October 1, 2019
    Verified Purchase
    When Rayne Hall announced in her newsletter that she's writing a new book about gothic fiction for her Writer's Craft series, I got very excited. I always wanted to write gothic fiction, but didn't find a good writer's guide about this genre. Now it's released - and I loved it.

    Rayne Hall teaches how to write good gothic fiction with the help of lots of examples of classic masterpieces. You learn how to use the "hero's journey" to outline your gothic story, what tropes to use to create suspense and what elements are typical for this genre.

    I found the book very helpful and inspiring. While reading it, I jotted down lots of ideas for my first own gothic story. I highly recommend this book to (advanced) writers to improve their skills.
    One person found this helpful
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  • Loves to read
    5.0 out of 5 stars Great reference book
    Reviewed in Australia on July 7, 2023
    Verified Purchase
    I learned a lot about gothic fiction. I liked the examples, too.
    I didn't realise how complex gothic fiction is.
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  • Jeremy Roberts
    4.0 out of 5 stars Very interesting book about Gothic Fiction
    Reviewed in Canada on April 21, 2023
    Verified Purchase
    I found this book very interesting. As an aspiring gothic fiction writer, it had everything I wanted to learn about approaching such a vast genre. I found the chapter about combining other genres with the gothic to be especially fun. Thank you!
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