Bungay Castle

To understand the origins of Gothic horror, this story is a must. When first published it must have been considered a frightening book. How far we have come. However, the plot and characters spin a tale of human mystery that lends much to the imagination. Is there a derelict imprisoned in the castle's subterranean passages? Was that a ghost floating through the antechamber? Will the maiden survive the terrors of her heart and mind?

I'm always on the look out for a good classic. Borders, B&N all have their small collections of classics but I've been through them all several times. Finally, something new, and old! Bungay Castle is a great read. Set in British feudal times,though really reads as if it could be any time in the 18th or 19th centuries, brother and sister, Edmond and Rosaline defy their father's wishes by chosing to explore the dungeons of the old Castle which is their home. Joined by their good friend Madeline who is a guest at the castle for some R&R (she lives at the local convent), they discover a prisoner, in the dungeons - a young and noble prisoner. Who is he, who put him there and what does it mean to Edmond and Rosaline? This book has romance, adventure, arranged marriage, ghosts and family secrets. Surprisingly it has alot of humor as well; cross dressing, practical jokes and unusual pets. I was surprised at how very progressive the female characters are. Elizabeth Bonhote must have been a bit of a feminist in her time. There are a few spots where the reading is difficult, though I figured out it was Bonhote's attempt at writing the local dialect. That too can give you a laugh. All in all very entertaining. I give it five stars.