Carmilla by Joseph Sheridan Le Fanu

Experience the chilling gothic tale that predates Dracula, presented in a beautifully designed Little Clothbound Classics edition by Coralie Bickford-Smith. This Victorian novella explores themes of forbidden desire and the supernatural, offering a unique perspective on vampire lore.

The story follows Laura, who lives a secluded life in an Austrian castle. Her solitude is broken by the arrival of the mysterious and captivating Carmilla, a guest who quickly becomes Laura's confidante. As their bond deepens, unsettling events begin to unfold, and the once-safe forest surrounding the castle takes on a sinister aura.

Sheridan Le Fanu's groundbreaking work, first published in the 19th century, is recognized as the first vampire novella. It laid the groundwork for future literary explorations of female and lesbian vampires, delving into the dark interplay between sexuality and mortality. This edition ensures the enduring allure of Carmilla remains as potent today as it was upon its initial release.

Key Features:

• A seminal work of gothic literature and the first vampire novella.
• Explores themes of sapphic desire and the supernatural.
• Designed by Coralie Bickford-Smith for the Little Clothbound Classics series.
• Features the original text by Joseph Sheridan Le Fanu.

Specifications:

• Author: Joseph Sheridan Le Fanu
• Publisher: Penguin Classics
• Binding: Hardcover
• Language: English
• Page Count: 144 pages
• Dimensions: 11.7 x 1.5 x 16.8 cm
• Weight: 500 g
• Release Date: September 24, 2026
• ISBN-10: 0241820235
• ISBN-13: 978-0241820230
• EAN: 9780241820230

This classic edition of Carmilla is a must-have for enthusiasts of Victorian literature, gothic horror, and early vampire fiction.