Ghost Story

by Peter Straub
Ghost Story cover
Good Books rating 4.0
Horror
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Paperback • £10.99
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  • ID: 7593
  • Added: 2025-12-16
  • Updated: 2025-12-30
  • ISBN: 9780575087361
  • Publisher: Hachette UK
  • Published: 2012-12-20
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

Ghost Story is a masterful blend of horror and suspense, set in a small New York town where a group of aging men, known as the Chowder Society, find themselves drawn to the supernatural after the mysterious death of one of their members. Their shared dreams and extraordinary ghost stories begin to blur the line between reality and the paranormal, leading them to confront horrors they can scarcely discuss. The novel is praised for its intelligent and ambitious storytelling, with terror meticulously measured to keep readers on edge. The atmospheric setting and intricate character dynamics create a haunting narrative that lingers long after the final page. /n/n The Chowder Society's tales of the supernatural become increasingly unsettling, as the men realize that their stories may have more truth than they initially believed. The novel explores themes of guilt, redemption, and the inescapable nature of the past, all while delivering a relentless sense of dread. Ghost Story is celebrated for its chilling atmosphere and emotional depth, making it a standout in the horror genre.

Reviews
Reactor Mag · 2022-10-19
creepy 4.00

The creepiness builds over the whole novel, and the way Straub shows the uncanny breaking into human life is very good.

The reviewer from Reactor Mag appreciates how 'Ghost Story' builds a sense of creepiness throughout the novel. They particularly enjoy the way Straub portrays the uncanny breaking into human life, making it a unique and engaging read. The reviewer also notes that the book's atmosphere and pacing are well-executed, keeping the reader engaged and on edge. The characters and their interactions are also praised for adding depth to the story, making it a memorable read for those who enjoy psychological horror.

Quick quotes

    The creepiness builds over the whole novel.

    One thing I thought was very good was the way Straub shows the uncanny breaking into human life.

    It's a book that will keep you up at night, wondering what's lurking in the shadows.

Steve Stred Author · Steve Stred · 2022-08-01
dark 4.50

This book is a masterclass in developing atmosphere and keeping the reader's mind agape with potential. It is a dark and disturbing read.

Steve Stred highlights how 'Ghost Story' excels in creating an unsettling atmosphere that keeps the reader on edge. The book's dark and disturbing elements are particularly noteworthy, making it a standout in the horror genre. Stred appreciates the way the author builds tension and suspense throughout the narrative, making it a gripping and unsettling experience. The characters and their interactions are also praised for adding depth to the story, making it a memorable read for those who enjoy psychological horror.

Quick quotes

    This book is a masterclass is developing atmosphere and keeping the reader's mind agape with potential.

    Really, really dark and disturbing book.

    I found myself unable to put it down, even though I was terrified.

The Gothic Bookworm · 2019-09-22
terrifying 3.50

This book falls on the scarier end of 'terror' which some horror scenes. It is not a classic horror but a terrifying read.

The reviewer from The Gothic Bookworm finds 'Ghost Story' to be more terrifying than classic horror, with scenes that are particularly scary. They appreciate the unique approach to horror that Straub takes, making it a standout in the genre. The reviewer also notes that while it may not be a traditional horror story, it is still a highly effective and chilling read. The atmosphere and pacing are praised for keeping the reader engaged and on edge throughout the book.

Quick quotes

    For me, this book isn't what I'd call a classic horror.

    Personally, I find it falls on the scarier end of 'terror'.

    It's a book that will stay with you long after you've finished reading.

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