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Nachtstürm Castle: A Gothic Austen Novel
Moonlight! Castles! Ghosts! Storms! Secret trap doors! Suicide! Grave yards! Mistaken Identities! Carriage accidents! Gypsies! Hauntings! A kidnapping! Purloined letters! A duel! Swooning! Wild Pursuits! Demonic possession! A disputed inheritance! Three romances! A ransacking! Ancient curses! A stolen will and testament! Dank subterranean passageways!
Multi-talented Emily C. A. Snyder has managed to pack the above list (and more) into Nachtstürm Castle, a sophisticated Gothic fantasy sequel, taking up the further adventures of Henry and Catherine Tilney where our divine Miss Austen finished the last lines of Northanger Abbey.
- Jeffrey B Ward
Austenprose.com
An original sequel to Jane Austen’s Northanger Abbey, Nachtstürm Castle whisks the reader and its heroine away to the border countries in the Austrian Alps, where adventure, mistaken identities, lost heirs, and terrifying butlers lurk. Catherine Tilney had settled in for a quiet, respectable, distinctly non-Gothic English life in the countryside with her husband, the Reverend Henry Tilney. Unfortunately, a quiet, respectable, distinctly non-Gothic life had not settled itself for her.
Multi-talented Emily C. A. Snyder has managed to pack the above list (and more) into Nachtstürm Castle, a sophisticated Gothic fantasy sequel, taking up the further adventures of Henry and Catherine Tilney where our divine Miss Austen finished the last lines of Northanger Abbey.
- Jeffrey B Ward
Austenprose.com
An original sequel to Jane Austen’s Northanger Abbey, Nachtstürm Castle whisks the reader and its heroine away to the border countries in the Austrian Alps, where adventure, mistaken identities, lost heirs, and terrifying butlers lurk. Catherine Tilney had settled in for a quiet, respectable, distinctly non-Gothic English life in the countryside with her husband, the Reverend Henry Tilney. Unfortunately, a quiet, respectable, distinctly non-Gothic life had not settled itself for her.
First published January 1, 2009
About the author
Emily C.A. Snyder
19 books43 followersEmily C. A. Snyder has been inventing stories since she was old enough to babble, and writing them down since she was old enough to dictate. A prolific writer, Snyder is the author of The Twelve Kingdoms series from Arx Publishing, LLC, as well as several Austenesque novels, including Nachtsturm Castle: A Gothic Austen Satire.
The premiere international scholar on writing new verse drama, she is the author of "Cupid and Psyche ~ A New Play in Blank Verse" which played to sold-out houses during its initial New York City run for Valentine's 2014. An internationally produced and published playwright, her work has been performed from Christchurch, New Zealand to Dublin, Ireland, touring several times throughout the continental United States. Her plays are available through Playscripts, Inc.
She is the Artistic Director and Co-Founder of Turn to Flesh Productions (TTF), which produces new plays with modern themes written in classical styles in New York City. TTF has a second mission to promote true, good, beautiful and vibrant roles for women on-stage and off.
Snyder holds an MA in Theatre Education from Emerson College, Boston, MA and a BA in Literature and Drama from Franciscan University of Steubenville, OH. She studied screenwriting in Hollywood, CA with the ActOne program, and studied verse drama with the Theatre-in-England/Shakespeare School in London and Stratford-upon-Avon, England, under the direction of Vivien Heilbron and Bernard Lloyd. She is a member of the Dramatists Guild, and currently lives in New York City.
Despite her biography, she is not overly fond of cats.
The premiere international scholar on writing new verse drama, she is the author of "Cupid and Psyche ~ A New Play in Blank Verse" which played to sold-out houses during its initial New York City run for Valentine's 2014. An internationally produced and published playwright, her work has been performed from Christchurch, New Zealand to Dublin, Ireland, touring several times throughout the continental United States. Her plays are available through Playscripts, Inc.
She is the Artistic Director and Co-Founder of Turn to Flesh Productions (TTF), which produces new plays with modern themes written in classical styles in New York City. TTF has a second mission to promote true, good, beautiful and vibrant roles for women on-stage and off.
Snyder holds an MA in Theatre Education from Emerson College, Boston, MA and a BA in Literature and Drama from Franciscan University of Steubenville, OH. She studied screenwriting in Hollywood, CA with the ActOne program, and studied verse drama with the Theatre-in-England/Shakespeare School in London and Stratford-upon-Avon, England, under the direction of Vivien Heilbron and Bernard Lloyd. She is a member of the Dramatists Guild, and currently lives in New York City.
Despite her biography, she is not overly fond of cats.
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
March 5, 2011
Gather your wits about you, dear readers, and be on the lookout for secret passageways, ghostly apparitions, mysterious pieces of furniture, and all things Gothic!
While traveling through France, on their tour of “Mrs. Radcliffe's country,” Reverend Henry Tilney and his new bride accept an invitation to stay in Nachtstürm Castle, located near the Austrian Alps. Upon arrival, they find Nachtstürm Castle to be a dark and decrepit old castle that is run by queer and questionable servants and framed with twisted mountains and steep cliffs. Sounds perfect, doesn't it? I wonder what our hero and heroine will do when in the midst of a real Gothic adventure...
What a delight it is to once again be in the company of Henry and Catherine and to see them so accurately rendered! Our hero still has his habit of teasing and provoking his beloved, and enjoys fabricating thrilling tales to tease or frightening his wife. However, due to past (ahem) misadventures, our heroine has come to the realization that her life is not a Radcliffian romance and usually does not fall for Henry's ploys. In fact, even though she truly is surrounded by mystery and mayhem in this novel, Catherine often believes it all to be contrived and merely the orchestrations of her husband! Talk about ironic! I simply loved Ms. Snyder's representation of Henry and Catherine! Their playfulness and teasing was fun to witness, and their tenderness and affection towards each other was most gratifying.
To continue reading, go to: http://janeaustenreviews.blogspot.com...
While traveling through France, on their tour of “Mrs. Radcliffe's country,” Reverend Henry Tilney and his new bride accept an invitation to stay in Nachtstürm Castle, located near the Austrian Alps. Upon arrival, they find Nachtstürm Castle to be a dark and decrepit old castle that is run by queer and questionable servants and framed with twisted mountains and steep cliffs. Sounds perfect, doesn't it? I wonder what our hero and heroine will do when in the midst of a real Gothic adventure...
What a delight it is to once again be in the company of Henry and Catherine and to see them so accurately rendered! Our hero still has his habit of teasing and provoking his beloved, and enjoys fabricating thrilling tales to tease or frightening his wife. However, due to past (ahem) misadventures, our heroine has come to the realization that her life is not a Radcliffian romance and usually does not fall for Henry's ploys. In fact, even though she truly is surrounded by mystery and mayhem in this novel, Catherine often believes it all to be contrived and merely the orchestrations of her husband! Talk about ironic! I simply loved Ms. Snyder's representation of Henry and Catherine! Their playfulness and teasing was fun to witness, and their tenderness and affection towards each other was most gratifying.
To continue reading, go to: http://janeaustenreviews.blogspot.com...
July 12, 2015
Northanger Abbey was a fun, laugh at itself story with an engaging young heroine and one of the most light-hearted and mischievous, but sensible heroes ever written. Not many retellings, variations, and sequels have been written about it so when I do come across one, I am eager to read it. This was a fun sequel that unapologetically admits to the reader that it plans to laugh at itself and invites the reader to join right in.
Henry and Catherine Tilney have settled into their young marriage and things are going along nicely, but Henry, very much in love with his wife, wants to give her something special. They never had a wedding trip so Henry plans for them to tour Europe, but specifically places that would appeal to an imaginative gothic romance-loving woman.
Catherine enjoys their honeymoon and is touched when their journey takes them to a forbidding castle with mysterious and odd residents. The castle comes right out of a gothic horror as does the secrets it holds. Catherine is convinced that Henry arranged this atmosphere and the mystery just for her even though at times, Henry doesn't seem to know any more than she does about the goings on. Could their adventure be truly dangerous and very much the real thing?
As I mentioned, this story isn't meant to be taken seriously with its gothic horrors and accompanying mystery tale. As such, I had to just sit back and enjoy what came next in this mischievous romp. My favorite part was that I got to spend more time with Henry and Catherine as a married pair. The author did a fantastic job of capturing the tone of Jane Austen's work and her characters. This story struck the right tone in action, dialogue, and setting for what would happen if Henry and Catherine were dropped into the middle of one of Catherine's favorite novels.
All in all, it was straight up amusement and a fun tribute to Jane Austen's Northanger Abbey. Austenesque fans should definitely give this one a go.
Henry and Catherine Tilney have settled into their young marriage and things are going along nicely, but Henry, very much in love with his wife, wants to give her something special. They never had a wedding trip so Henry plans for them to tour Europe, but specifically places that would appeal to an imaginative gothic romance-loving woman.
Catherine enjoys their honeymoon and is touched when their journey takes them to a forbidding castle with mysterious and odd residents. The castle comes right out of a gothic horror as does the secrets it holds. Catherine is convinced that Henry arranged this atmosphere and the mystery just for her even though at times, Henry doesn't seem to know any more than she does about the goings on. Could their adventure be truly dangerous and very much the real thing?
As I mentioned, this story isn't meant to be taken seriously with its gothic horrors and accompanying mystery tale. As such, I had to just sit back and enjoy what came next in this mischievous romp. My favorite part was that I got to spend more time with Henry and Catherine as a married pair. The author did a fantastic job of capturing the tone of Jane Austen's work and her characters. This story struck the right tone in action, dialogue, and setting for what would happen if Henry and Catherine were dropped into the middle of one of Catherine's favorite novels.
All in all, it was straight up amusement and a fun tribute to Jane Austen's Northanger Abbey. Austenesque fans should definitely give this one a go.
December 14, 2017
I give up. I made it to 64% and I'm not going any further. And what REALLY bothers me is I'm not certain I can identify why it just doesn't hold my interest. I pick it up, read a page or two, find my mind wandering and not really following the story, so I move on to something else. I've been doing that for about a month, and I'm not even 2/3rds of the way through.
Both Catherine and Henry seem about the way I would expect them to be after they marry. There are spooky coincidences and components that should have me wondering what's going to happen next. But I'm not. I just want to be done with this book. And now I've decided I am, even though I haven't finished reading it.
The author actually does a creditable job of copying Jane Austen's "parody voice" from Northanger Abby. I suspect that maybe that's the problem. Jane Austen doesn't use that tone throughout all of her book. Most of NA is in Jane Austen's own writing style, with a few passages in one section poking fun at the Ann Radcliffes of her era. This book is missing that playfulness and wink-wink at the reader.
I don't like rating it so low when the story itself, as much of it as I've read, is honestly mysterious and intriguing, and the writing is technically very good and appropriate to the era and subject matter. But when I'm SO bored despite being so far into the book where there's a whole lot of stuff happening, I can't give it more than 2 stars.
Both Catherine and Henry seem about the way I would expect them to be after they marry. There are spooky coincidences and components that should have me wondering what's going to happen next. But I'm not. I just want to be done with this book. And now I've decided I am, even though I haven't finished reading it.
The author actually does a creditable job of copying Jane Austen's "parody voice" from Northanger Abby. I suspect that maybe that's the problem. Jane Austen doesn't use that tone throughout all of her book. Most of NA is in Jane Austen's own writing style, with a few passages in one section poking fun at the Ann Radcliffes of her era. This book is missing that playfulness and wink-wink at the reader.
I don't like rating it so low when the story itself, as much of it as I've read, is honestly mysterious and intriguing, and the writing is technically very good and appropriate to the era and subject matter. But when I'm SO bored despite being so far into the book where there's a whole lot of stuff happening, I can't give it more than 2 stars.
November 10, 2017
3.5 stars
Interesting.
The Reverent Henry Tilney decides to finally take his bride, Catherine nee: Moreland, on a bridal trip/"honeymoon" while she is certain, (as he does often tease her about her love of Gothic novels), that he has arranged a journey into the pages of Udolpho.
As events, planned or happenstance, occur Catherine does at one point think that it would have taken a huge amount of planning and resources to have so many mysterious and dark events and strange, even off-setting, characters play out the novel's outlandish premise. But then she goes into denial and reverts to her first impression; this is all part of Henry's charm in his desire to please her.
But this book gives the reader a look at the history of the castle's family, their servants and the town folk who live nearby or serve in roles that interconnect with the daily events for the castle's inhabitants.
The couple does interact in a manner which tells the reader that the Tilneys are happy in their marriage. The background for the castle's heirs is not as happy and one servant has his foot in dark realms as well as in his role at Nachtstürm Castle.
While this is a sequel it really has little romance but a great deal of plotting and maneuvering by one "master" to plan and order his descendants to do as he wants...or else.
Interesting.
The Reverent Henry Tilney decides to finally take his bride, Catherine nee: Moreland, on a bridal trip/"honeymoon" while she is certain, (as he does often tease her about her love of Gothic novels), that he has arranged a journey into the pages of Udolpho.
As events, planned or happenstance, occur Catherine does at one point think that it would have taken a huge amount of planning and resources to have so many mysterious and dark events and strange, even off-setting, characters play out the novel's outlandish premise. But then she goes into denial and reverts to her first impression; this is all part of Henry's charm in his desire to please her.
But this book gives the reader a look at the history of the castle's family, their servants and the town folk who live nearby or serve in roles that interconnect with the daily events for the castle's inhabitants.
The couple does interact in a manner which tells the reader that the Tilneys are happy in their marriage. The background for the castle's heirs is not as happy and one servant has his foot in dark realms as well as in his role at Nachtstürm Castle.
While this is a sequel it really has little romance but a great deal of plotting and maneuvering by one "master" to plan and order his descendants to do as he wants...or else.
March 28, 2020
This sequel does a delightful job of continuing Northanger Abbey. Henry Tilney is the same droll charmer we loved in the original, and watching him and Catherine tease each other and banter is adorable. And they're so in love!
The story is suitably twisty and turny, playing with Gothic conventions.
Snyder's exposition is also wonderfully witty in the spirit of Austen. "[I]n her fancy, Henry’s many–caped greatcoat swirled in a graceful drape away from his body, whereas in reality, the wind blew against him, slapping the greatcoat about our hero like an untidy cocoon."
Highly recommended for Austen lovers!
The story is suitably twisty and turny, playing with Gothic conventions.
Snyder's exposition is also wonderfully witty in the spirit of Austen. "[I]n her fancy, Henry’s many–caped greatcoat swirled in a graceful drape away from his body, whereas in reality, the wind blew against him, slapping the greatcoat about our hero like an untidy cocoon."
Highly recommended for Austen lovers!
October 25, 2015
This book takes place approximately a year after Northanger Abbey. Henry convinces Catherine to finally take a honeymoon, and visit the country of the astounding Mrs. Radcliffe. At first they stop in Paris, and while at the opera they meet a couple who offers to let them stay at their castle in the Alps. The thought of a castle in the Alps is just gothic and intriguing enough to entice Catherine (Henry had arranged it before-hand, so he didn't need any enticing). From there the mystery, and adventure ensues.
I had a hard time getting through this book. The plot was good and intriguing, but the writing style, and how the story was structured just didn't flow. I don't like when authors insert themselves into the story that much. It breaks the rhythm, and tears me out of the world they are trying to create. I like to get swept up, and it is hard to do that when the author would spout off about this or that, or comment on something totally irrelevant.
I had a hard time getting through this book. The plot was good and intriguing, but the writing style, and how the story was structured just didn't flow. I don't like when authors insert themselves into the story that much. It breaks the rhythm, and tears me out of the world they are trying to create. I like to get swept up, and it is hard to do that when the author would spout off about this or that, or comment on something totally irrelevant.
January 11, 2020
Audio listening to this creative satire of Jane Austen's Northanger Abbey .
October 25, 2011
Nachtstürm Castle by Emily C. A. Snyder is a book one should read in the middle of winter, curled up in front of a roaring fire—preferably with one’s favorite hot drink close at hand. I however read it in the middle of summer, out on the patio at work, with a large bottle of cold water close at hand. Whenever and wherever read, this Gothic sequel to Northanger Abbey is a delightful novella.
Our tale begins approximately a year after Henry and Catherine’s wedding. Henry suggests they take an Ann Radcliffe pilgrimage, visiting the locales in the South of France and Italy that authoress favored. The reader might be surprised when Catherine at first hesitates, but she is holding true to her decision to be a rational creature. In the end, however, Henry wins the point and they leave on holiday.
While in Paris, they meet up with both a gypsy—whom Catherine is dreadfully disappointed in—and another Englishman. This gentleman, the Baron of Branning (and Brandenburg) suggests the Tilneys might enjoy a stay at his recently inherited castle in the Alps. Catherine again debates with herself, but she finally acquiesces, largely under the belief that Henry has arranged the entire thing.
And here, dear reader, is one of the most charming and mysterious aspects of this story: even after reading the entire book, I am not sure exactly how much Henry arranged, and how much was fate.
The mystery truly begins when the couple arrives at Nachtstürm Castle. Entirely against their will (unless Henry is behind it?), they are swept into a tale of mistaken identity and stolen birthright, with an enemy so horrid he might even be truly evil. Oh yes, reader–here, Catherine will find monsters enough to satisfy all her most lurid imaginings, and to cure her husband of any desire to tease her over them.
Nachtstürm Castle was a delight to read. Snyder dances a fine line, weaving a tale of truly Gothic proportions while still maintaining something like the tongue in cheek humor Jane Austen used in mocking those same novels.
In Northanger Abbey, Jane Austen, by presenting us with an heroine who sees murder around every corner, shows us how very ridiculous those Gothic notions are. In Nachtstürm Castle, Emily C.A. Snyder, by presenting us with an heroine determined to be perfectly sensible, shows us how terrifyingly real monsters are.
Our tale begins approximately a year after Henry and Catherine’s wedding. Henry suggests they take an Ann Radcliffe pilgrimage, visiting the locales in the South of France and Italy that authoress favored. The reader might be surprised when Catherine at first hesitates, but she is holding true to her decision to be a rational creature. In the end, however, Henry wins the point and they leave on holiday.
While in Paris, they meet up with both a gypsy—whom Catherine is dreadfully disappointed in—and another Englishman. This gentleman, the Baron of Branning (and Brandenburg) suggests the Tilneys might enjoy a stay at his recently inherited castle in the Alps. Catherine again debates with herself, but she finally acquiesces, largely under the belief that Henry has arranged the entire thing.
And here, dear reader, is one of the most charming and mysterious aspects of this story: even after reading the entire book, I am not sure exactly how much Henry arranged, and how much was fate.
The mystery truly begins when the couple arrives at Nachtstürm Castle. Entirely against their will (unless Henry is behind it?), they are swept into a tale of mistaken identity and stolen birthright, with an enemy so horrid he might even be truly evil. Oh yes, reader–here, Catherine will find monsters enough to satisfy all her most lurid imaginings, and to cure her husband of any desire to tease her over them.
Nachtstürm Castle was a delight to read. Snyder dances a fine line, weaving a tale of truly Gothic proportions while still maintaining something like the tongue in cheek humor Jane Austen used in mocking those same novels.
In Northanger Abbey, Jane Austen, by presenting us with an heroine who sees murder around every corner, shows us how very ridiculous those Gothic notions are. In Nachtstürm Castle, Emily C.A. Snyder, by presenting us with an heroine determined to be perfectly sensible, shows us how terrifyingly real monsters are.
May 30, 2012
I think this is a very quaint nice fun read. Northanger Abbey was an ok read in my opinion, but a very fast and fun read. This novel is done very much like Jane's. The author talks to the reader at varies times and is witty with her remarks. I loved how she depicted both Henry and Catherine Tilney. Very true to the originals. This is a mystery which begins in England with Henry wanting to take Catherine on the Honeymoon they never had. He wants to take her to the continent to a "Radcliffe type Castle" so that his Catherine can enjoy her mysteries by stomping thru a real castle from her novels. But things don't always go as expected and they end up in thier own dark mystery which they have to solve. It was difinitely very diverting and I did enjoy it very much. I definitely recomend this book. The only reson I rated a 3 is that it is not my favorite characters of Jane Austen. If you loved Northanger Abbey I think you would rate it much higher. Posibly a 4 or 5 star!!!
September 26, 2009
I've never read an Austen sequel before, and I have to say I loved this one. It was light and entertaining, yet also suspenseful--Ann Radcliffe would be proud. Emily Snyder definitely got the right tone and characterization for Austen's creations, Catherine and Henry Tilney. Northanger Abby is one of my favorites, so it was quite nice to see these two characters alive and well again (well, for the most part…).
May 6, 2018
This is for the audio-book version.
I am a huge Jane Austen fan. I have read all of her books multiple times. Northanger Abbey has one of the best male characters that Austen writes. This book is a perfect sequel to Northanger Abbey. It is written in the same style with similar humor and remains faithful to the characters. Allow me to give you some quotes to illustrate, "Alas, if an author is allowed two alases in a chapter"; "This is the shortest chapter containing only 144 words"; The tongue-in-cheek style continues throughout the book. It is simply delightful.
The plot in this book is more substantial than in the original Northanger Abbey. Henry takes his bride to a real Gothic castle for a belated honeymoon. Spoofing the original satire, Catherine believes that Henry has arranged for all the terror they encounter so she does not believe that she is really in danger. This makes for both some genuinely eerie and genuinely humorous scenes. The couple must solve the mysteries that the castle contains. Who is this woman that looks exactly like Catherine? What is the curse that seems to afflict all the former barons? The story is suspenseful, intriguing, and funny. The narrator does an excellent job of performing the characters and setting the mood. I will check out all the books of both the author and the narrator. Well done. I was given this free review copy of this audio-book at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
I am a huge Jane Austen fan. I have read all of her books multiple times. Northanger Abbey has one of the best male characters that Austen writes. This book is a perfect sequel to Northanger Abbey. It is written in the same style with similar humor and remains faithful to the characters. Allow me to give you some quotes to illustrate, "Alas, if an author is allowed two alases in a chapter"; "This is the shortest chapter containing only 144 words"; The tongue-in-cheek style continues throughout the book. It is simply delightful.
The plot in this book is more substantial than in the original Northanger Abbey. Henry takes his bride to a real Gothic castle for a belated honeymoon. Spoofing the original satire, Catherine believes that Henry has arranged for all the terror they encounter so she does not believe that she is really in danger. This makes for both some genuinely eerie and genuinely humorous scenes. The couple must solve the mysteries that the castle contains. Who is this woman that looks exactly like Catherine? What is the curse that seems to afflict all the former barons? The story is suspenseful, intriguing, and funny. The narrator does an excellent job of performing the characters and setting the mood. I will check out all the books of both the author and the narrator. Well done. I was given this free review copy of this audio-book at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
December 28, 2017
I was gifted this book in audio format in order to write an honest review.
I DNF'd it. The book started off strong, it was a bit slow but once i got into it- the story was engaging. (it is a bit over 5 hours long in audio) with about 2 hours left something happened- i don't know what and then i was just confused. i tried to rewind, figure to what was going on but there were characters that i didn't remember hearing before and i was just totally lost. i had to stop.
i think if you are a huge austin fan- and in particular a fan of Northanger abbey (which i thought i was but i guess not) you might do better with this than i did. it has a very JA feel to it. it is well written, clean, just not for me.
the narration is super great. great pace and inflection. the narrator is top notch.
would i try another book by this author- sure- i'm just not a gothic fan i think- though i was enjoying the mystery until i got lost- would i listen to this narrator again- definitely!
I DNF'd it. The book started off strong, it was a bit slow but once i got into it- the story was engaging. (it is a bit over 5 hours long in audio) with about 2 hours left something happened- i don't know what and then i was just confused. i tried to rewind, figure to what was going on but there were characters that i didn't remember hearing before and i was just totally lost. i had to stop.
i think if you are a huge austin fan- and in particular a fan of Northanger abbey (which i thought i was but i guess not) you might do better with this than i did. it has a very JA feel to it. it is well written, clean, just not for me.
the narration is super great. great pace and inflection. the narrator is top notch.
would i try another book by this author- sure- i'm just not a gothic fan i think- though i was enjoying the mystery until i got lost- would i listen to this narrator again- definitely!
October 5, 2020
Fun Creepy Gothic Austin Sequel
I love all the Jane Austen books but have to admit it has been a while since I've read Northanger Abbey. This is a sequel to that story. It started a tad slow and then quickly hit all levels of creepiness for me. Little tip don't read it late at night like I did.... that was a bit mistake for me, it took me forever to go to sleep. However, I am a bit of a wimp when it comes to horror or scary movies and books - I tend to avoid them. This wasn't in the horror genre but definitely in the creepy ghost haunting, thriller, and mystery genre. The narrator does a great job and overall I thought it was a fun daytime read. 😉 Give this one a try it you like the Jane Austen spin off books.
—I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
I love all the Jane Austen books but have to admit it has been a while since I've read Northanger Abbey. This is a sequel to that story. It started a tad slow and then quickly hit all levels of creepiness for me. Little tip don't read it late at night like I did.... that was a bit mistake for me, it took me forever to go to sleep. However, I am a bit of a wimp when it comes to horror or scary movies and books - I tend to avoid them. This wasn't in the horror genre but definitely in the creepy ghost haunting, thriller, and mystery genre. The narrator does a great job and overall I thought it was a fun daytime read. 😉 Give this one a try it you like the Jane Austen spin off books.
—I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
November 19, 2012
Dop•pel•gäng•er [daw-puh l-geng-er] –noun A ghostly double or counterpart of a living person.
Catherine turned.
Had she caught a bit of moonlight in the room? For there before our heroine stood within the secret door one of HERSELVES, bedecked in the stiff panniered satins of a previous age. The figure beckoned, light glinting off and through her rings and all-too-familiar necklace. The sweet mouth opened perhaps for no stranger purpose than to draw breath, except that our heroine seemed to hear whispered all about her “veni.” What could she have done? She was a heroine, and with that came certain obligations. So, picking up her skirts, Catherine followed.
Moonlight! Castles! Ghosts! Storms! Secret trap doors! Suicide! Grave yards! Mistaken Identities! Carriage accidents! Gypsies! Hauntings! A kidnapping! Purloined letters! A duel! Swooning! Wild Pursuits! Demonic possession! A disputed inheritance! Three romances! A ransacking! Ancient curses! A stolen will and testament! Dank subterranean passageways!
Multi-talented Emily C. A. Snyder has managed to pack the above list (and more) into a 139 page sophisticated Gothic fantasy sequel, taking up the further adventures of Henry and Catherine Tilney where our divine Miss Austen finished the last lines of Northanger Abbey.
Beginning in the quiet shelter of Woodston, we find the newly-weds continuing to “fun” each other over their past escapades with Gothic tales, especially Radcliffe’s Udolpho, Catherine’s over-active imagination inside Northanger Abbey, and Henry’s loving provocation of her naivete’.
A Honeymoon to the continent is proposed by the Reverend, particularly to the Apennines of Italy, the setting for Udolpho. While in Paris, they are befriended by a Robert Wiltford, Baron of Branning and his wife, who own a castle in the mountains of Austria near Switzerland and Italy. The ancient castle’s name? Why “Nachtsturm,” of course. The Baron offers to let the castle to the Tilneys for their honeymoon. But, before we continue, crucial questions must be pondered. Is our hero, Henry, really THAT clever? Is our Heroine, Catherine, really THAT gullible? Why the questions? Because the mysterious plot pivots around Catherine’s inability to determine whether her scheming husband is staging their every activity in advance or if indeed what befalls them is totally beyond their control.
The exchange in Paris:
“Nachtsturm Castle,” he repeated, grinning boyishly. “What a perfectly dreadful name. Well, it mayn’t be the Apennines, but I hope it shall suffice?” “Of course, my love. What a fortunate coincidence!” Catherine agreed with a smile and a gentle touch. For she was assured now, as she had only suspected before, that there was nothing coincidental at all when Henry Tilney was concerned.
Ms Snyder employs all of the classic Gothic props as from the very moment of their arrival they find themselves embroiled in the middle of a power struggle over the rightful ownership of Nachtsturm Castle. Nothing is quite as it seems and for a time even the Reverend and Mrs. Tinley doubt each other’s motives as they are caught up in the wild intrigue. And just who or what is Edric, the elderly steward of Nachtsturm, who seems to hold all within his sphere captive by a malevolent power?
After some particularly unnerving events involving poor Catherine in and around the castle:
There could be no doubt in her mind now that her adventures in Nachtsturm Castle were not, after all, Henry’s careful planning. The certainty had been growing within her since the previous night’s escapade – only now formalized in the wake of Henry’s inability to answer her questions. She reeled from the thought!
Ms Snyder’s Henry is handsome, clever, witty, protective, and recklessly heroic at times. Marriage must be agreeing mightily with Catherine because she is in full bloom, admired by all who encounter her as a winsome young beauty. And, trusting that her Henry may be planning thrills for her amusement, she takes courageous chances at times. The banter between these two is charming and sweet with an undercurrent of playful sensuality that is characteristic of two people who are daily growing more madly in love with each other.
Early on, a teasing and amorous Henry steers his lovely bride towards the bedroom with this:
“That Woodston shall be haunted ‘til life be brought again,” Henry had replied, taking his wife’s hand and leading her with his shoulders a-slump, resignation in his voice, and a twinkle in his eye. I’m afraid, my dear, that the parish must be peopled!”
This is not a sedate Austenesque sequel but a harrowing thriller that requires of the reader a certain level of concentration and diligence to not get lost in the multiplicity of characters, dates, places, and events. Being written by an academician, (which I am not) I was sent scurrying for my dictionary more than once and with dialogue in French, German, and Italian, I was thankful to have studied Latin. This Novella should be…no…MUST be read-through a second time. On my re-read, morsels of enlightenment, sometimes as seemingly insignificant as a single word or short phrase, were revealed that greatly enhanced my understanding and pleasure regarding the convoluted mystery of Nachtsturm Castle.
This reviewer cannot remember reading a novella, or any other work of this length, that had within its pages so much to offer the fancier of Gothic fiction. Read it after dark with your back to the wall and facing a locked door!
Catherine turned.
Had she caught a bit of moonlight in the room? For there before our heroine stood within the secret door one of HERSELVES, bedecked in the stiff panniered satins of a previous age. The figure beckoned, light glinting off and through her rings and all-too-familiar necklace. The sweet mouth opened perhaps for no stranger purpose than to draw breath, except that our heroine seemed to hear whispered all about her “veni.” What could she have done? She was a heroine, and with that came certain obligations. So, picking up her skirts, Catherine followed.
Moonlight! Castles! Ghosts! Storms! Secret trap doors! Suicide! Grave yards! Mistaken Identities! Carriage accidents! Gypsies! Hauntings! A kidnapping! Purloined letters! A duel! Swooning! Wild Pursuits! Demonic possession! A disputed inheritance! Three romances! A ransacking! Ancient curses! A stolen will and testament! Dank subterranean passageways!
Multi-talented Emily C. A. Snyder has managed to pack the above list (and more) into a 139 page sophisticated Gothic fantasy sequel, taking up the further adventures of Henry and Catherine Tilney where our divine Miss Austen finished the last lines of Northanger Abbey.
Beginning in the quiet shelter of Woodston, we find the newly-weds continuing to “fun” each other over their past escapades with Gothic tales, especially Radcliffe’s Udolpho, Catherine’s over-active imagination inside Northanger Abbey, and Henry’s loving provocation of her naivete’.
A Honeymoon to the continent is proposed by the Reverend, particularly to the Apennines of Italy, the setting for Udolpho. While in Paris, they are befriended by a Robert Wiltford, Baron of Branning and his wife, who own a castle in the mountains of Austria near Switzerland and Italy. The ancient castle’s name? Why “Nachtsturm,” of course. The Baron offers to let the castle to the Tilneys for their honeymoon. But, before we continue, crucial questions must be pondered. Is our hero, Henry, really THAT clever? Is our Heroine, Catherine, really THAT gullible? Why the questions? Because the mysterious plot pivots around Catherine’s inability to determine whether her scheming husband is staging their every activity in advance or if indeed what befalls them is totally beyond their control.
The exchange in Paris:
“Nachtsturm Castle,” he repeated, grinning boyishly. “What a perfectly dreadful name. Well, it mayn’t be the Apennines, but I hope it shall suffice?” “Of course, my love. What a fortunate coincidence!” Catherine agreed with a smile and a gentle touch. For she was assured now, as she had only suspected before, that there was nothing coincidental at all when Henry Tilney was concerned.
Ms Snyder employs all of the classic Gothic props as from the very moment of their arrival they find themselves embroiled in the middle of a power struggle over the rightful ownership of Nachtsturm Castle. Nothing is quite as it seems and for a time even the Reverend and Mrs. Tinley doubt each other’s motives as they are caught up in the wild intrigue. And just who or what is Edric, the elderly steward of Nachtsturm, who seems to hold all within his sphere captive by a malevolent power?
After some particularly unnerving events involving poor Catherine in and around the castle:
There could be no doubt in her mind now that her adventures in Nachtsturm Castle were not, after all, Henry’s careful planning. The certainty had been growing within her since the previous night’s escapade – only now formalized in the wake of Henry’s inability to answer her questions. She reeled from the thought!
Ms Snyder’s Henry is handsome, clever, witty, protective, and recklessly heroic at times. Marriage must be agreeing mightily with Catherine because she is in full bloom, admired by all who encounter her as a winsome young beauty. And, trusting that her Henry may be planning thrills for her amusement, she takes courageous chances at times. The banter between these two is charming and sweet with an undercurrent of playful sensuality that is characteristic of two people who are daily growing more madly in love with each other.
Early on, a teasing and amorous Henry steers his lovely bride towards the bedroom with this:
“That Woodston shall be haunted ‘til life be brought again,” Henry had replied, taking his wife’s hand and leading her with his shoulders a-slump, resignation in his voice, and a twinkle in his eye. I’m afraid, my dear, that the parish must be peopled!”
This is not a sedate Austenesque sequel but a harrowing thriller that requires of the reader a certain level of concentration and diligence to not get lost in the multiplicity of characters, dates, places, and events. Being written by an academician, (which I am not) I was sent scurrying for my dictionary more than once and with dialogue in French, German, and Italian, I was thankful to have studied Latin. This Novella should be…no…MUST be read-through a second time. On my re-read, morsels of enlightenment, sometimes as seemingly insignificant as a single word or short phrase, were revealed that greatly enhanced my understanding and pleasure regarding the convoluted mystery of Nachtsturm Castle.
This reviewer cannot remember reading a novella, or any other work of this length, that had within its pages so much to offer the fancier of Gothic fiction. Read it after dark with your back to the wall and facing a locked door!
June 27, 2018
The description said a combination of gothic and Jane Austen - sounded like a no-brainer of something I would like. Unfortunately, this just wasn't as good as I hoped. I did not finish this.
The story was well-written, and the characters were likable, but even with the story having suspense, the tone and the feeling was flat for me. I was bored and the story just did not hold my attention.
I got as far as chapter 15 before I realized I just wasn't into this book, and gave up. Just not a good fit for me.
The story was well-written, and the characters were likable, but even with the story having suspense, the tone and the feeling was flat for me. I was bored and the story just did not hold my attention.
I got as far as chapter 15 before I realized I just wasn't into this book, and gave up. Just not a good fit for me.
December 4, 2017
Treat for an Austen junkie
Author nails the Austen language and the Gothic melodrama styles, in a way that most would-be imitators would envy. And her own style is distinct and lovely too. If you love Northanger Abbey, you will gobble this up.
Author nails the Austen language and the Gothic melodrama styles, in a way that most would-be imitators would envy. And her own style is distinct and lovely too. If you love Northanger Abbey, you will gobble this up.
March 2, 2018
In this Northanger Abbey sequel Catherine and Henry Tilney set off on a tour of Europe and visit Nachtsturm Castle where they have their own Gothic adventure. Or as Catherine believes a play set up by her loving husband.
An enjoyable read.
An enjoyable read.
July 20, 2018
I was very excited for this book but was disappointed by the character portrayal of Catherine, and the weird interlude that was misplaced and seemingly out of time.
July 16, 2022
Oh my gosh. I forgot how much FUN this is. This is my favorite sequel and fanfic ever. Utterly BRILLIANT in execution and tone.
Catherine and Henry have been married for about a year when Henry convinces Catherine to go on a trip through Mrs. Radcliffe's country. Catherine is perfectly content to stay home but eventually gives in to Henry and they leave. In Paris they receive and invitation from an English couple to visit their castle in the Alps and they make their way to this castle. Well, this castle has a horrid history to it and everyone there calls Catherine Donna Fortuna when they see her. What could be the meaning of this? And who is that woman in the portrait who looks so much like Catherine?
It has Gothic vibes and plays with tropes and has the humorous tone that doesn't take itself too seriously. It's wonderful. Catherine is under the impression (delusion, rather) that Henry has gone to great lengths to put together a grand Gothic adventure for her and has nary a doubt about it. Even at the worst of times. It's so delightful and hilarious. There are plenty of references to Northanger Abbey, and even a bit to other works. Henry is wonderful 💗 He is my favorite Austen hero and I think the authoress did him justice. I love how the book breaks narrative at a particularly exciting part for something different, but related, and how that part really does feel like an authentic part of a Gothic novel of the time.
I love it and if you love Northanger Abbey, please give this a try. It's wonderful 🥰
"A rollicking good time!"
Original Review
I personally loved this book- I feel like the author was smiling as she wrote it. There were parts that had me giggling. One of the big things that kept me giggling was Catherine (of course!) and her thinking that Henry has arranged this whole affair for her amusement. And because she thinks that, she just enters the secret passageway and brings nothing for a light whatsoever! Anyway, the tone was similar to Jane Austen and the story highly amusing. I desperately want to read The Mysteries of Udolpho now! I did before, but now I so want to but that will have to wait until school is out!
I love Northanger Abbey and Henry and this continuation of Henry and Catherine's story is delightful. Some of this book I didn't really process, like when characters spoke in a different language, and some of the vocabulary (there was one word in particular that I can't recall at this moment what it was, but it was very unfamiliar to me) so this book will need a second perusal and probably a third. And a fourth! It really was a lot of fun to read and if you like Northanger Abbey and gothic lit in general, pick this up because it is a lot of fun, and perhaps ridiculous at some points. I had an issue at one part where a particularly exciting event is taking place and all of a sudden we are interrupted with a different, yet relevant, narration. But I quickly got over this, smiled, and read because what else could I do?
I only wish I had a physical copy of this book because I would love to put it next to Northanger Abbey on my shelf.
Catherine and Henry have been married for about a year when Henry convinces Catherine to go on a trip through Mrs. Radcliffe's country. Catherine is perfectly content to stay home but eventually gives in to Henry and they leave. In Paris they receive and invitation from an English couple to visit their castle in the Alps and they make their way to this castle. Well, this castle has a horrid history to it and everyone there calls Catherine Donna Fortuna when they see her. What could be the meaning of this? And who is that woman in the portrait who looks so much like Catherine?
It has Gothic vibes and plays with tropes and has the humorous tone that doesn't take itself too seriously. It's wonderful. Catherine is under the impression (delusion, rather) that Henry has gone to great lengths to put together a grand Gothic adventure for her and has nary a doubt about it. Even at the worst of times. It's so delightful and hilarious. There are plenty of references to Northanger Abbey, and even a bit to other works. Henry is wonderful 💗 He is my favorite Austen hero and I think the authoress did him justice. I love how the book breaks narrative at a particularly exciting part for something different, but related, and how that part really does feel like an authentic part of a Gothic novel of the time.
I love it and if you love Northanger Abbey, please give this a try. It's wonderful 🥰
"A rollicking good time!"
Original Review
I personally loved this book- I feel like the author was smiling as she wrote it. There were parts that had me giggling. One of the big things that kept me giggling was Catherine (of course!) and her thinking that Henry has arranged this whole affair for her amusement. And because she thinks that, she just enters the secret passageway and brings nothing for a light whatsoever! Anyway, the tone was similar to Jane Austen and the story highly amusing. I desperately want to read The Mysteries of Udolpho now! I did before, but now I so want to but that will have to wait until school is out!
I love Northanger Abbey and Henry and this continuation of Henry and Catherine's story is delightful. Some of this book I didn't really process, like when characters spoke in a different language, and some of the vocabulary (there was one word in particular that I can't recall at this moment what it was, but it was very unfamiliar to me) so this book will need a second perusal and probably a third. And a fourth! It really was a lot of fun to read and if you like Northanger Abbey and gothic lit in general, pick this up because it is a lot of fun, and perhaps ridiculous at some points. I had an issue at one part where a particularly exciting event is taking place and all of a sudden we are interrupted with a different, yet relevant, narration. But I quickly got over this, smiled, and read because what else could I do?
I only wish I had a physical copy of this book because I would love to put it next to Northanger Abbey on my shelf.
March 4, 2011
This book was a delight!
I have recently found my way to Jane Austen sequels and recently reread Northanger Abbey by Jane Austen. I fell in love with Henry Tilney and Catherine Moreland and I was curious if there were any sequels available. Northanger Abbey sequels are few and in-between it appears and Pride and Prejudice sequels seem to rule the day. When I found Emily Snyder’s sequel to Northanger Abbey it was much anticipation that I immediately purchased it and eagerly awaited its arrival on my door step. Once it was here I could not put it down.
Miss Snyder maintains the spirit and tongue-and-cheek-parody of Jane Austen’s original Northanger Abbey. Austen originally wrote Northanger Abbey as a parody of the popular gothic novels of Ann Radcliffe. The romp the Miss Snyder takes us on in her sequel is a true delight. I found myself laughing out loud on many occasions.
In Nachtstürm Castle it seems Henry and Catherine have not had the opportunity to go on a honeymoon and so as a present to his bride Henry takes Catherine on a tour of the places that Radcliffe spoke of in her novels. Henry Tilney loves to tease is wife and I’ll admit a scene in the opening sequence made me wonder if this book was going to be ridiculous. However, that scene and what it represents was carried throughout the book and by the end I realized that the gothic genre is ridiculous. I admit to having read Radcliffe myself and I can attest to the ridiculousness of her novels on occasion. Besides, Austen was trying to create a parody which Miss Snyder has continued beautifully.
Catherine Moreland is still a doe eyed, naive young woman. She is finally given the chance to act the part of a Gothic heroine when she and Henry are invited to stay at the mysterious Nachtstürm Castle which is situated Austria. She gets a mysterious castle, hidden passageways, strange happenings and most importantly an aloof, ghost like, servant who wants nothing more than for the intruders to leave the castle. Catherine in her innocence cannot resist the mystery and finds herself in some scrapes.
Henry is not immune to the gothic adventures at all. He is drawn into the mystery and perhaps my favorite part was the dramatic rescue towards the end of the novel. There was something so amusing and sexy about Henry Tilney riding a horse in true gothic fashion in order to rescue his bride. True to form Henry found amusement in social situations and even in Catherine’s naive sensibilities.
Miss Snyder has written a great addition to Austen sequels and a wonderful sequel to Northanger Abbey. I almost enjoyed her sequel to Northanger Abbey better than the original. Almost. The only bad thing I have to say about this book is that it ended.
I have recently found my way to Jane Austen sequels and recently reread Northanger Abbey by Jane Austen. I fell in love with Henry Tilney and Catherine Moreland and I was curious if there were any sequels available. Northanger Abbey sequels are few and in-between it appears and Pride and Prejudice sequels seem to rule the day. When I found Emily Snyder’s sequel to Northanger Abbey it was much anticipation that I immediately purchased it and eagerly awaited its arrival on my door step. Once it was here I could not put it down.
Miss Snyder maintains the spirit and tongue-and-cheek-parody of Jane Austen’s original Northanger Abbey. Austen originally wrote Northanger Abbey as a parody of the popular gothic novels of Ann Radcliffe. The romp the Miss Snyder takes us on in her sequel is a true delight. I found myself laughing out loud on many occasions.
In Nachtstürm Castle it seems Henry and Catherine have not had the opportunity to go on a honeymoon and so as a present to his bride Henry takes Catherine on a tour of the places that Radcliffe spoke of in her novels. Henry Tilney loves to tease is wife and I’ll admit a scene in the opening sequence made me wonder if this book was going to be ridiculous. However, that scene and what it represents was carried throughout the book and by the end I realized that the gothic genre is ridiculous. I admit to having read Radcliffe myself and I can attest to the ridiculousness of her novels on occasion. Besides, Austen was trying to create a parody which Miss Snyder has continued beautifully.
Catherine Moreland is still a doe eyed, naive young woman. She is finally given the chance to act the part of a Gothic heroine when she and Henry are invited to stay at the mysterious Nachtstürm Castle which is situated Austria. She gets a mysterious castle, hidden passageways, strange happenings and most importantly an aloof, ghost like, servant who wants nothing more than for the intruders to leave the castle. Catherine in her innocence cannot resist the mystery and finds herself in some scrapes.
Henry is not immune to the gothic adventures at all. He is drawn into the mystery and perhaps my favorite part was the dramatic rescue towards the end of the novel. There was something so amusing and sexy about Henry Tilney riding a horse in true gothic fashion in order to rescue his bride. True to form Henry found amusement in social situations and even in Catherine’s naive sensibilities.
Miss Snyder has written a great addition to Austen sequels and a wonderful sequel to Northanger Abbey. I almost enjoyed her sequel to Northanger Abbey better than the original. Almost. The only bad thing I have to say about this book is that it ended.
November 22, 2012
I feel bad giving this 3 stars...but as I got so confused and had to start over again, I can't give it 4. Even though I thought Catherine and Henry delightfully portrayed, the story itself had a few problems. The action could get a little clunky and that whole "I loved my master but not his son" made no sense until very late in the book. If you read it, you will see what I mean. However, I felt a real sense of affection for this as I went along, I think the gothic nature of the story, the excellent setting and the humor made up for most of the problems. It's very funny and has a light tone and enjoys poking fun at its hero and heroine, much as Jane did in her original. I don't want to give too much away, but at the end, when Catherine is convinced their adventures were all Henry's handiwork... I just couldn't quite buy that. Why did she suddenly think that? That threw me a little out of the story. However - if you are a Jane-ite or an Austen-ite, or whatever you may call yourself,and as long as you aren't one of those who think the continuations of Jane's stories are an encroachment, rather than able to embrace the opine that imitation is the utmost form of flattery, I recommend this book. And is that not the best thing you can say about a book?
June 18, 2011
I wanted to like this book—I really did. But, I never got drawn into the story and I thought it was kind of boring and ridiculous. I know the plot was meant to be a parody of the gothic novel, but I didn't think it was very funny. I loved The Mysteries of Udolpho and There Must Be Murder, but I didn't like this book. I thought Edric was way over-the-top and the Will/Lucia/Fortuna story didn't interest me at all. I also thought it was really unnecessary for Will to kiss Catherine, even if he did it by mistake. My favorite parts of the book were the scenes with just Henry and Catherine; the whole gothic part really bored me. I haven't seen anything less than 5-star reviews, so I'm disappointed I didn't enjoy the book more. 2 1/2 stars.
February 4, 2017
Ever since I finished reading Northanger Abbey I wanted a sequel story. When I found out about this book I was eager to get my hands on it. A Gothic sequel to Northanger Abbey YES PLEASE!!
It took me years to get a copy of it and now that I read through it, all I have to say is that -although extremely well written and witty it felt a bit low for me. I did like it unfortunately I can't say I loved it ( like I wish I had).
Yes there is romance. Yes there is ghost and other gothic themes that Northanger Abbey felt short off. Yes it capture ( in a sense) the characters quite well.
But the story drag on a bit too long. The ending was unsatisfying and so slapped on. The climax barely lasted 4 pages and it was over. It was a bit confusing and there was a lot of unnessary things added to the story.
Still the story isn't that bad for a sequel to a novel written years ago.
It took me years to get a copy of it and now that I read through it, all I have to say is that -although extremely well written and witty it felt a bit low for me. I did like it unfortunately I can't say I loved it ( like I wish I had).
Yes there is romance. Yes there is ghost and other gothic themes that Northanger Abbey felt short off. Yes it capture ( in a sense) the characters quite well.
But the story drag on a bit too long. The ending was unsatisfying and so slapped on. The climax barely lasted 4 pages and it was over. It was a bit confusing and there was a lot of unnessary things added to the story.
Still the story isn't that bad for a sequel to a novel written years ago.
May 10, 2012
What a delightful little novella! I was quite surprised at the author's ability to channel Jane Austen's wit in this continuing parody of a heroine too caught up in all things "gothic". Henry Tilney was quite as delightful in this sequel as he was in the original Northanger Abbey.
I would definitely recommend this if you are diverted by "the absurd"!
I would definitely recommend this if you are diverted by "the absurd"!
February 1, 2012
Great sequel to Northanger Abbey. I loved how it felt Gothic but still had that humor element that I loved in NA. I really want to read Ann Radcliffe now.
December 29, 2012
Not great literature, but an entertaining sequel to Jane Austen's Northanger Abbey in a similar mock-gothic vein.
May 24, 2013
This was a fun enough read, rather tongue in cheek and self referential, which could well be in keeping with the 'prequel', as I haven't read it.
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