Brian J. Showers has produced a treasure trove of wondrous details about parts of Dublin that are linked to three nineteenth century Gothic writers: Charles Maturin, Joseph Sheridan Le Fanu and Bram Stoker. This volume gives the reader biographical information, historical anecdotes and some spine chilling facts about the three authors and the city in which they lived. One can also sample their fiction, as each author related part includes a piece of their work.

The bulk of the material is contained in three sections, one for each of the Gothic authors. Each starts with an introduction to the author’s life, then carries on with discussions on locations where the author lived, worked, studied, and, in the case of Le Fanu, where he rests in peace. (It appears the resting place of Charles Maturin is a much more moot point.) He also includes directions to the locations involved and there are local area maps interspersed with the text to help the reader find their way. Clear, well presented photographs of many of the key locations and landmarks are included and add to the character of the book.

To complete each section Brian has included a sample of the subject’s work for the reader’s delight, and fright. These stories are illustrated, in good character, with fitting illustrations prepared by Duane Spurlock.

The fourth section, “Dublin Directory”, contains lots of useful contact information for tourists to help them organise excursions and to ensure they can have access to the locations they wish to visit.

Don’t forget to read the “Endnotes” which contain some fascinating facts. I’m sure any Dubliner will find something there that they didn’t know about their own city.

Showers’ research has been extensive and thorough. He has presented a detailed bibliography of his research which is not only a testament to the time and effort he invested in this book, but is also a great starting point for anyone who wishes to study the subject matter further.

This book is not only a “must read” for visitors to Dublin and students of the Gothic or macabre, but also for any resident of the city who wishes to find out a little more about where they live, its dark past and its literary heritage. ( )