I’ve been trying not to sign up for any more reading challenges, but I knew I’d have to make an exception for the R.I.P. challenge. This was my favourite of all the challenges I participated in last year and I’ve been looking forward to taking part again this year. If you’re interested in joining in too, please see the R.I.P. VI blog post at Stainless Steel Droppings!
There are several different levels (or perils) to choose from and I’m signing up for Peril the First. This means reading four books that could be classified as:
Mystery.
Suspense.
Thriller.
Dark Fantasy.
Gothic.
Horror.
Supernatural.
I’ve listed below some of the books I’m thinking about reading. I’m not expecting to read all of these and it’s also possible that I’ll decide to read some other books that aren’t on my list.
Frankenstein by Mary Shelley – I was meaning to read this for R.I.P last year but didn’t have time. I’m making it a priority for this year as it’s one of those books I feel I really should have read before now.
A Red Herring Without Mustard by Alan Bradley – I enjoyed the first two books in the Flavia de Luce series and am hoping the third one will be just as good.
The Phantom of the Opera by Gaston Leroux – I’ve seen very mixed opinions of this book, so I think it’s time I tried it for myself.
The Quarry by Johan Theorin – This is the third in a series of spooky Swedish crime novels. I loved the first two so I’ve been looking forward to this one.
The White Devil by Justin Evans – I noticed this book appearing on a lot of American blogs a few months ago and I’ll finally get a chance to read it now that it’s being published in the UK.
Uncle Silas by Joseph Sheridan Le Fanu – I read some of Le Fanu’s short stories earlier in the year and can’t wait to read this gothic novel.
We Have Always Lived in the Castle by Shirley Jackson – Another book I can’t believe I still haven’t read!
Florence and Giles by John Harding – I hadn’t even heard of this book until recently. It’s described as a gothic thriller and sounds like something I would love.
Awakening by S.J. Bolton – I loved her first book, Sacrifice, and immediately bought two more of her books but haven’t had a chance to read them yet. I could either read this one or Blood Harvest.
Have you read any of these? What are you reading for this year’s RIP?
She Reads Novels 
Great list! I have seen The White Devil around a lot too and it has intrigued me.
I can’t wait to read The White Devil. I’m glad it’s finally being published here so I can have a chance to read it!
I’m going to have to check out Uncle Silas. I love anything with the word ‘gothic’ in it.
I hope we both enjoy Uncle Silas. I don’t know much about it except that it’s a gothic novel!
This looks fun. I love gothic novels and am always looking for an excuse to read more!
I love gothic novels too. They’re particularly atmospheric at this time of year.
Great to have you in on the challenge, and a great list of books there. I personally really enjoyed The Phantom of the Opera. I’ve seen mixed reviews as well, but it was a win for me.
We Have Always Lived in the Castle is great too as is A Red Herring Without Mustard. I’m such a huge fan of the Flavia de Luce books and am so excited that a new one comes out in November.
Thanks, Carl. I’m glad to hear you enjoyed The Phantom of the Opera – I hope I like it too. And I definitely want to read A Red Herring Without Mustard before the fourth book comes out, if possible.
Hurray – I have managed to avoid all challenges this year so far but I love this one. I really want to read Uncle Silas too so hopefully I’ll get round to that one. I have so many crime books and ones that would fit into the horror and gothic genres too. I haven’t heard of Florence & Giles but I’m off to check it out right now )
Have fun!
I have a lot of other books that would fit those genres too but I tried to narrow the pile down to a more realistic number!
i haven’t read We Have always lived in this castle either so don’t feel bad lol.. so many books so little time! I think RIP is going to be a good one this year!
It’s good to know I’m not the only who hasn’t read it. And yes, I’m sure it’s going to be a lot of fun this year!
Ooh, the White Devil will make a fantastic read for RIP! You have so many good selections on your list. 😀
I think I remember reading your review of it, Amanda. I’m glad you think it’s a good choice for RIP!
We Have Always Lived in the Castle was a great book. I believe I read it last year.
I’ve heard so many people say they loved it, I knew I’d have to try it myself eventually! I’m glad you thought it was a great book – I’m really looking forward to it now.
Yes!!!! Frankenstein and The Phantom of the Opera are excellent!!
Here is mine
I can’t believe I haven’t read Frankenstein yet. I’m definitely hoping to find time for both that one and The Phantom of the Opera.
I love Jackson’s writings, I am going to reread The Haunting of Hill House.
I haven’t read that one either, but it sounds like another great choice for RIP.
You have great selection there. I want to read the Phantom too but I have seen too many movies of that already
I actually haven’t seen any movie versions, so I’m looking forward to reading the book!