Monsters and a daemon
Couldn’t resist using the archaic spelling of demon. My copy of Frankenstein used “daemon” and so shall I.
October’s books were purposefully chosen with spookiness in mind.
Book 1: Endless Night by Agatha Christie
There’s definitely a monster in this murder mystery.
Published in 1967, Endless Night took Dame Agatha only six weeks to write (usually it was twice that time or more). She was, in this case, a speed daemon.
Book 2: Wuthering Heights by Emily Brontë
This classic is a re-read for me. The third time, I believe. I wonder if up till now I’ve read abridged versions. This time around felt more horrifying than I remember from sixth grade and a post-college book club read.
It’s so well written, but what a bunch of miserable folk! The illnesses are endless and not always of the physical kind.
Book 3: Frankenstein by Mary Shelley
Confession time: Never read this before. Regarding film versions, I’ve only seen Young Frankenstein.
Frankstein is the scientist. He’s a bit of a monster, too. His creation doesn’t even get a name; he’s referred to mostly as a creature, monster, and daemon.
Although I was relieved to finish this gothic tale, I’m glad to have read it at last.
Book 4: Nobody’s Girl by Virginia Roberts Giuffre
Four words: Release the Epstein Files.
This is a true horror tale. And it’s not over yet. There’s so much in this book that hasn’t been covered in the news. Shame on the disgusting monsters who continue to get away with trafficking. And shame on those who protect them.
Book 5: The Shakespeare Thefts by Eric Rasmussen
Farmer Gary brought this home from his latest trip to the implement dealer, with a “quick detour” to a bookstore. I got sticky fingers and made it my final book of the month.
The Shakespeare Thefts is a compellation of stories about the author’s team of sleuths, who set out a decade earlier to track down every original copy of William Shakespeare’s work, known as the First Folios. Their search uncovers all sorts of bad actors, careless collectors, and even a monster or two.
Happy Halloween!
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