Gothic fiction has a proud tradition of asking questions which challenge the status quo. It can hold a mirror up to society, and force us to re-evaluate how we're treating others, especially marginalised identities. In honour of pride month, here are 6 cracking queer gothic novels that are sure to give you chills.
The Iliac Crest by Christina Rivera Garza, Sarah Booker (translator)
Strange (in the best sense of the word) and incredibly thought-provoking, Garza’s novel is full of mystery and intrigue. On a dark and stormy night, an unnamed narrator receives two unexpected female visitors: a former lover, and a complete stranger. They tell him that they know his greatest secret: that he is, in fact, a woman. The narrator desperately tries to defend his masculinity. As the strange interrogation carries on, the narrator finds himself slipping into a haunted past– (maybe his own). Masterfully, this book explores and challenges gender binaries.
The Confessions of Frannie Langton by Sara Collins
It’s true– we have recommended this gothic romance a few times– but it’s just so good and deserves a revisit. Set in 19th century London, Frannie Langton is on trial for murder. Though she can’t remember the events of the horrible night, it seems unthinkable to Frannie that she could kill the woman she so dearly loved. In her prison cell, she begins to piece together events that led to the tragic mystery. We follow Frannie's journey from a Jamaican plantation all the way to the Mayfair mansion of the celebrated scientist George Benham and his beautiful wife, Madame Marguerite Benham (whom she allegedly murdered).
Our Wives Under the Sea by Julia Armfield
Ever thought of going on a deep-sea dive? You may not come back quite the same. That was the case for Leah, who returns from a deep-sea dive that ended in catastrophe. Her wife Miri. who has been waiting anxiously at home, sees a change in Leah and knows that something is wrong. Beautifully written, strange and grotesque– but always powerful– this is a touching modern gothic.
Summer Sons by Lee Mandelo
If you’re into character-driven novels with complex relationships, this might just be the one for you. Eddie and Andrew are practically attached at the hip, until Eddie goes off to study at Vanderbilt. Andrew has plans to join him six months later- but it never happens. He apparently commits suicide, though Eddie isn’t entirely convinced. While Eddie searches for answers, dark secrets begin to emerge- and he is haunted by a bleeding phantom who won’t give him peace. This gothic novel explores masculinity, queer relationships, and institutional racism in academia.
Sorrowland by Rivers Solomon
In this gothic techno-thriller, Vern- a black, albino intersex woman- escapes from a cult. She finds refuge in a forest where she gives birth to twins. There she hunts and gathers to keep them alive. She is haunted by a traumatic past, and the threat of capture. But something incredible happens: she gains incredible strength and power while her body goes through a sort of metamorphosis. A heartbreaking and moving story that explores marginalised identities in the American context.
Carmilla by Sheridan Le Fanu
The gothic novel which predates Dracula is a tour de force. Some call it the original vampire story. It’s about a young isolated woman and her encounter with Carmilla- beautiful and mysterious. Full of intrigue, twists and turns, this gothic romance is a classic that’s well worth a read.
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