Are There Books Similar To The Curse Of Penryth Hall?

If you loved the gothic vibes and mystery of 'The Curse of Penryth Hall,' you're in for a treat because there’s a whole world of books that scratch that same itch. One that immediately comes to mind is 'The Death of Mrs. Westaway' by Ruth Ware. It’s got that eerie, atmospheric setting, a protagonist who’s drawn into a web of secrets, and a family mystery that unravels in the most satisfying way. Ware’s writing really nails the gothic tone, with crumbling mansions and unsettling family dynamics that feel like they could’ve been ripped straight from 'Penryth Hall.' I devoured it in one sitting because the tension just never lets up.

Another fantastic pick is 'The Silent Companions' by Laura Purcell. This one leans even harder into the supernatural, with creepy wooden figures that might—or might not—be moving on their own. The pacing is slower, but it builds this incredible sense of dread that lingers long after you’ve finished. Purcell’s attention to historical detail and her ability to weave folklore into the narrative reminded me a lot of the way 'Penryth Hall' plays with legends and local superstitions. Plus, the dual timelines add this extra layer of mystery that keeps you guessing until the very end.

For something with a bit more of a romantic gothic feel, 'Mexican Gothic' by Silvia Moreno-Garcia is a must-read. It’s set in a decaying mansion in 1950s Mexico, and the protagonist, Noemí, is this sharp, headstrong woman who’s investigating her cousin’s disturbing letters. The vibes are immaculate—think oppressive heat, eerie whispers, and a house that feels like it’s alive. Moreno-Garcia’s prose is lush and immersive, and the way she blends classic gothic tropes with fresh cultural perspectives makes it stand out. It’s got that same blend of mystery and horror that made 'Penryth Hall' so compelling.

If you’re open to something a little older but equally gripping, 'Rebecca' by Daphne du Maurier is the quintessential gothic novel. The unnamed narrator, the haunting presence of the first wife, Rebecca, and the brooding Manderley estate all create this suffocating atmosphere of secrets and lies. It’s a slower burn, but the psychological tension is unmatched. I reread it every few years and always find something new to love about it. It’s one of those books that makes you feel like you’re walking through fog—everything’s a little unclear, but in the best way possible.

Lastly, 'The Lighthouse Witches' by C.J. Cooke might appeal if you enjoyed the folklore elements in 'Penryth Hall.' It’s a mix of historical and contemporary timelines, centered around a lighthouse where strange things keep happening. The way Cooke plays with witch trials and local legends gives it this rich, eerie texture. It’s not as straightforwardly gothic as the others, but the mood is spot-on, and the twists are genuinely surprising. I love how it balances family drama with supernatural horror—it’s the kind of book that stays with you.