Wylding Hall is a modern gothic novel. Set in a remote English manor, the story follows the members of a 1970s British folk rock band, who are sent to Wylding Hall to record their new album. However, what begins as a creative escape soon turns into a chilling tale of mystery and tragedy.
What happened to the enigmatic Julian? Years later those who survive are gathered to recall the events at Wylding Hall. The novel is told in a series of interviews with the band members and others involved in the recording process, years after the events. Bringing in the doubt of unreliable memories, this format adds layers to the story as each character provides their perspective on what happened during that fateful summer. Carrying the reader along with the evolving the conversational dialogue it makes for an easy and fun read for a short novel.
One of the strengths of “Wylding Hall” is its atmospheric setting. The old manor, surrounded by ancient woods and steeped in history, becomes a character in itself, imbued with a sense of foreboding and secrets waiting to be uncovered. Hand’s paints a vivid picture of the eerie beauty of Wylding Hall and its surroundings, pulling the reader in.
With folklore intertwined with the events this adds yet another layer to the intrigue and depth. Strange occurrences, unexplained phenomena, and glimpses of spectral figures create an unsettling atmosphere that keeps the reader guessing until the final pages. The blending of folk music with elements of horror and folklore creates a unique and compelling narrative that will appeal to fans of both genres.
Character development is another strong point in “Wylding Hall.” Each band member is distinct, with their own quirks, ambitions, and secrets. As tensions rise and the supernatural forces at Wylding Hall exert their influence, the dynamics between the characters shift, revealing hidden depths and conflicts.
Much like many gothic novels the eerie atmosphere and intrigue are the strong parts of the story. If you are looking for more chills and thrills you may be left wanting. If you like a neatly wound up storyline you will also be left wanting. But if you’d like a moody modern gothic this will fit the bill perfectly. If you have the chance the audiobook by Blackstone is well worth a listen. The voice actors did a great job of bringing the book to life.
Overall, “Wylding Hall” is a haunting blend of music, mystery, and the supernatural. Elizabeth Hand’s skillful storytelling and prose create a haunting narrative that lingers. Fans of atmospheric horror and folklore-inspired tales will find much to enjoy in this chillingly captivating novel.
Uncanny Lounge 
Leave a comment