Charles Noblitt of Andersgate

by Holly Ducarte

Charles Noblitt is brought into Andersgate Asylum by his mother, who can no longer care for his many needs when her husband gets ill with a blood disorder. At first, Charles does not take to the place very well. Hijinks with a smelly bog, slithering snakes, and orange peels ensues. After years go by, Charles grows a friendship to his doctor and a comfort in his new home. But when change is on the horizon once again, he will become the stuff that legends are made of. At over 6500 words, this quirky, gothic tale set in the 1900s in England is sure to capture your intrigue and maybe even your heart.

27 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 31, 2024

About the author

Holly is the author of soulful poetry and meaningful creative fiction stories with atmospheric settings and complex, relatable characters.

Her works have been published as paperbacks, hard covers, e-books, showcased in magazines, newspapers, various online sites, and highly applauded over Wattpad. To date, she's received two poetry awards and a nomination for an award in literature for Black Worm; a short story.

Holly is an old soul with plenty more tales to tell.
Aside from the author life, she enjoys the comfort of a good book, shopping in antique stores, junk journaling, watercolour painting, meeting other writers and readers on Instagram, going for walks outside, spending time with loved ones, binging fave movies and tv shows, a variety of music, shameless dancing, good food with tea or coffee, and growing in the Christian faith.

Holly currently resides in a modest lake town with her husband, daughter, and two cats by the names of Lulu and Dela.

Reviews

[Holly Ducarte · Rating 5 out of 5]

Author Review: I adored writing Charles. All the shenanigans made me chuckle and the depth of friendship between him and his doctor warmed my soul. This was a story that was written during a creative writing course challenge that blossomed into something so much more. An asylum tale of heart, woe, and humour, Charles Noblitt of Andersgate awaits for you to meet him.

[Mandy J · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amusing and poetic

With descriptions as creative as Ray Bradbury and a story that resembles Edgar Allen Poe, you're sure to enjoy this read. I really did. I chuckled at parts and was enthralled throughout. I wanted more, but alas that's what a good story does!

[Nix Damon · Rating 5 out of 5]

This short story was a treat! I've always enjoyed Ducarte's narrative voice! She manages to wrap whimsy with reality in a fantastical braid that is both pleasing and curious.

This brief foray into an asylum was bright and buoyant with a respectful nod to the darker realities behind typical asylum conditions of the early1900's.

Charles Noblitt was a succinct and interesting read, and the characters sparkled like gems in their setting.

[Ian Coomber · Rating 5 out of 5]

Creates a great a vivid atmosphere you can really picture, with a great central character that leaves you wanting more.