Ann Radcliffe's The Romance of the Forest

A timeless gothic romance of mystery, danger, and suspense. This horror classic examines the tensions between hedonism and honour through Ann Radcliffe’s masterfully atmospheric prose.

First published in 1791, this captivating novel is set against the background of the isolated French countryside while the shadow of the country’s ongoing revolution looms. When virtuous Adeline is forced to seek refuge in the depths of the forest with Monsieur Pierre de la Motte, his wife, and his two servants, the group find themselves hiding in the ruins of an abandoned abbey. Soon, they suspect they might not be alone as storms shroud the sky and entangled tales of forbidden love and law evasion echo through the eerie halls.

This volume is part of the Mothers of the Macabre series, celebrating the gothic horror masterpieces of pioneering women writers who played a pivotal role in shaping and advancing the genre. With its vivid descriptions, atmospheric settings, and compelling characters, The Romance of the Forest exemplifies why Radcliffe remains a prolific influence in the gothic genre.