Featuring five works of short gothic fiction, Curious, If True delivers peculiar stories that incite spine-chilling reactions. Depicting a classic ghost tale, The Old Nurse’s Story follows a nurse named Hester as she tells a group of children about her ancestry. The Poor Clare, depicts an intriguing narrative as a pragmatic lawyer uses his position to investigate the records and history of strange women said to have supernatural abilities. . Primarily told through a letter, The Grey Woman follows a young woman named Anna who was rushed into a terrible marriage. Soon Anna discovers how horrible her husband is proving the doubts she had before the she was pressured into the union. When his murderous rage makes Anna a target, her handmaid, Amante rushes to her safety. On the run and in disguise, Anna and Amante work together to outsmart and overcome Anna’s abusive and violent husband. Depicting a change of scene, Lois the Witch features a compelling and unexpected narrative set during the Salem Witch Trials. Following a woman accused of witchcraft, Lois the Witch tells a dark tale that leaves readers on the edge of their seats. Finally, the title piece, Curious, If True reexamines fairy tales and folk lore with a mysterious and dark lens, answering the question—what happens after “happily ever after”?

First each published separately between the years of 1852-1861, the short works of fiction within Curious, If True can be read as stand-alone pieces while still working together to create a chilling tone and mood. Typically known for her biographies and Victorian fiction depicting homelife, Elizabeth Cleghorn Gaskell breaks from her mold to deliver these delightfully spooky stories. With intricate prose, strong characterization, and compelling plots, Gaskell proves that her merit extends across many genres, and that her work remains to be applicable even to modern audiences.

Now presented in an easy-to-read font and featuring a stunning new cover design, this edition of Elizabeth Cleghorn Gaskell’s Curious, If True, is catered to modern readers, updating the classic to be accessible and conformed to contemporary standards while preserving the original genius of the work.