A review by the_literary_cat
The Masque of the Red Death by Edgar Allan Poe

challenging dark medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Strong character development? N/A
• Loveable characters? N/A
• Diverse cast of characters? N/A
• Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A

3.5

This short story collection contains seven of Poe’s short stories, including ‘The House of the Fall of Usher’ and titular ‘The Masque of the Red Death’. Just like other 19th century horror stories, Poe’s short stories aren’t really scary or mysterious, but Poe was very good with creating an eerie atmosphere and that’s what makes these stories enjoyable. However, the writing style is very poetic and descriptive, and that didn’t always click with me. I liked some of these stories better than others, and ‘The Black Cat’ and ‘The Fall of the House of Usher’ were definitely my favourites.