Discover books similar to "The Ghost Stories of Edith Wharton"

Henry James

The Turn of the Screw

If you enjoyed the ghostly tales of Edith Wharton, you might like Henry James's 'The Turn of the Screw'. This novella tells the chilling story of a governess who believes that the children in her care are being haunted by malevolent spirits. Like Wharton, James masterfully builds tension and suspense, leaving readers questioning the reality of the supernatural events depicted.

Henry James

Washington Square

For fans of Wharton's psychological insights, Henry James's 'Washington Square' is a great choice. This novel explores the complex relationship between a young woman and her controlling father, who disapproves of her suitor. James, like Wharton, delves deep into the human psyche, revealing the power dynamics and hidden emotions that drive his characters' actions.

Shirley Jackson

The Haunting of Hill House

If you're looking for a truly terrifying ghost story, Shirley Jackson's 'The Haunting of Hill House' is a must-read. This novel tells the story of a group of researchers who investigate a haunted house, only to find themselves tormented by supernatural forces. Jackson's writing is atmospheric and chilling, creating a sense of dread that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

Shirley Jackson

We Have Always Lived in the Castle

For fans of Wharton's exploration of social class and family dynamics, Shirley Jackson's 'We Have Always Lived in the Castle' is a great choice. This novel tells the story of a wealthy family who are shunned by their community after a tragic accident. The novel explores the tensions between the family members, as well as their complex relationship with the outside world.

Charlotte Perkins Gilman

The Yellow Wallpaper

If you enjoyed the feminist themes in Wharton's work, you might like Charlotte Perkins Gilman's 'The Yellow Wallpaper'. This novella tells the story of a woman who is confined to a room with yellow wallpaper, which she becomes increasingly obsessed with. The story is a powerful exploration of gender, mental health, and the limitations placed on women in society.

Henry James

The Aspern Papers

For fans of Wharton's interest in the intersection of art and life, Henry James's 'The Aspern Papers' is a great choice. This novella tells the story of a man who becomes obsessed with obtaining the letters of a dead poet, which are held by the poet's former lover. The novel explores the lengths to which people will go to possess art, and the consequences of their actions.

Edith Wharton

The House of Mirth

If you enjoyed the social commentary in Wharton's ghost stories, you might like 'The House of Mirth', one of her most famous novels. This novel tells the story of Lily Bart, a wealthy socialite who struggles to maintain her status in New York society. The novel is a powerful exploration of gender, class, and the social pressures faced by women in the early 20th century.

Edith Wharton

The Age of Innocence

For fans of Wharton's exploration of social class and family dynamics, 'The Age of Innocence' is a must-read. This novel tells the story of a wealthy lawyer who becomes engaged to a respectable young woman, only to fall in love with her unconventional cousin. The novel is a powerful exploration of the constraints placed on individuals by society, and the sacrifices required to maintain one's status.

Daphne du Maurier

Rebecca

If you enjoyed the gothic atmosphere and psychological tension in Wharton's ghost stories, you might like 'Rebecca', a classic novel of suspense. This novel tells the story of a young woman who marries a wealthy widower, only to find herself haunted by the memory of his first wife, Rebecca. The novel is a powerful exploration of identity, memory, and the power of the past to shape the present.

Charlotte Bronte

Jane Eyre

For fans of Wharton's exploration of gender and power dynamics, 'Jane Eyre' is a classic novel that explores these themes in a different historical context. This novel tells the story of a young woman who becomes a governess for a wealthy man, only to discover that he is hiding a dark secret. The novel is a powerful exploration of gender, class, and the struggle for independence and self-determination.