Title: The Black Cat and the Ghoul
Author: Keith Gouveia
First published January 1, 1984
146 pages, Paperback
ISBN: 9781940761060 (ISBN10: 1940761069)
Rating: 3.9
Overview
In The Black Cat and the Ghoul, Keith Gouveia takes us on a spine-chilling journey through the darkest corners of the human psyche. Inspired by Edgar Allan Poe’s classic short story, The Black Cat, Gouveia introduces us to John Mohr, a convicted killer who is sentenced to death.
But as fate would have it, John’s story doesn’t end there. A chance encounter with a mysterious visitor transforms him into something otherworldly, and he becomes the harbinger of death itself.
Will John embrace his newfound power, or will he succumb to the darkness that now consumes him? This gripping tale of horror is accompanied by two bonus poems and two short stories, including Poe’s own The Tell-Tale Heart.
Brace yourself for a journey into the shadows with The Black Cat and the Ghoul.
Editoral Review
The Black Cat and the Ghoul is a gripping horror novel by Keith Gouveia, first published on January 1, 1984. Gouveia is a prolific writer of horror fiction, with a distinct writing style that emphasizes the eerie and supernatural.
The plot of The Black Cat and the Ghoul follows a man named Ben, who moves into an old farmhouse with his wife and daughter. As they begin to explore the property, they discover a dark history surrounding the previous owner, and a terrifying creature that haunts the land.
Gouveia’s writing is captivating, with vivid descriptions that bring the haunting atmosphere to life. One of the strengths of the book is Gouveia’s ability to create compelling and nuanced characters.
Ben, the protagonist, is a complex figure, struggling with his own past traumas and the weight of responsibility as a husband and father. His wife and daughter are also well-developed, with their own fears and motivations.
The supporting characters, including the previous owner of the farmhouse and a group of local townspeople, are also richly drawn. The setting of The Black Cat and the Ghoul is another standout element of the book.
Gouveia’s descriptions of the old farmhouse and the surrounding landscape are hauntingly beautiful, lending a sense of atmosphere and place to the story. The historical and cultural significance of the book is also noteworthy, as it explores themes of grief, trauma, and the cycles of violence that can haunt families and communities.
While The Black Cat and the Ghoul is undoubtedly a strong entry in the horror genre, it does have a few limitations. The pacing of the book can be slow at times, particularly in the early chapters, and some readers may find the ending somewhat predictable.
Nevertheless, these shortcomings do not detract from the overall quality of the book. In conclusion, The Black Cat and the Ghoul is a well-crafted horror novel that should appeal to fans of the genre.
Gouveia’s skillful characterization and haunting descriptions of place make for a compelling and immersive reading experience. With its themes of trauma, violence, and the power of family ties, the book also speaks to contemporary issues and concerns.
Overall, The Black Cat and the Ghoul is a must-read for horror fans looking for a chilling and evocative story. The Washington Post gives The Black Cat and the Ghoul four out of five stars.