Carmilla: Classic Illustrated Book by Sherdian Le Fanu

by J. Sheridan Le Fanu

Discover the chilling gothic vampire classic that inspired Dracula—Carmilla by Sheridan Le Fanu. First published in 1872, Carmilla is one of the earliest and most influential vampire novels ever written. Set in a remote castle in the forests of Styria, this haunting tale follows a young woman named Laura whose peaceful life is forever altered by the arrival of the enigmatic and beautiful Carmilla. As a sinister bond forms between them, Laura begins to experience terrifying dreams, unexplained illness, and a creeping sense of dread—leading to a shocking and unforgettable revelation.

More than just a supernatural thriller, Carmilla is a masterclass in gothic horror, psychological suspense, and atmospheric storytelling. Sheridan Le Fanu weaves eerie landscapes, forbidden desire, and creeping dread into a vampire narrative that predates Bram Stoker’s Dracula by over two decades. With its themes of female friendship, seduction, and the supernatural, Carmilla broke boundaries in its time and remains a cornerstone of vampire literature and LGBTQ+ gothic fiction.

This beautifully written novella is essential reading for fans of classic horror, vampire fiction, and gothic literature. Whether you're a student of 19th-century supernatural fiction or a lover of dark, romantic horror, Carmilla delivers mystery, terror, and emotional depth in equal measure. Perfect for readers of Edgar Allan Poe, Mary Shelley, and Bram Stoker, this enduring tale of darkness and desire belongs on every gothic horror bookshelf.

146 pages, Paperback

Published May 11, 2025

About the author

Joseph Thomas Sheridan Le Fanu was an Irish writer of Gothic tales and mystery novels. He was the leading ghost-story writer of the nineteenth century and was central to the development of the genre in the Victorian era. M.R. James described Le Fanu as "absolutely in the first rank as a writer of ghost stories". Three of his best-known works are Uncle Silas, Carmilla and The House by the Churchyard.

Reviews

[Paul Shrimpton · Rating 2 out of 5]

An okay read, average at best.