Joseph Sheridan Le Fanu's Carmilla is a pioneering vampire novella that predates Dracula, telling the story of a young woman's encounter with a mysterious female vampire. Published in 1872, the work explores themes of desire, identity, and the uncanny through a Gothic lens that challenged Victorian sensibilities. Le Fanu creates a narrative that is both horror story and psychological exploration, examining the complex dynamics of female relationships and forbidden attraction.

WHY WE PICKED IT: Because Le Fanu understood that the most terrifying monsters are the ones we're drawn to. Carmilla remains startlingly modern in its exploration of desire that can't be named, proving that Gothic horror has always been about what society refuses to acknowledge.

DETAILS: • Author: Joseph Sheridan Le Fanu • Publisher: Lanternfish Press • Format: Paperback • Publication Date: November 26, 2019 • ISBN: 9781941360385 • Ships direct from distributor in 3–7 business days