Certainly! "The Story of the Goblins Who Stole a Sexton" is a short story written by Charles Dickens as part of his collection titled "The Pickwick Papers." The narrative follows Gabriel Grub, a grumpy and ill-tempered sexton (grave digger) in a small village. Gabriel despises Christmas and all its festivities, choosing instead to revel in his solitude.

One Christmas Eve, while digging a grave in the churchyard, Gabriel encounters a group of goblins who emerge from the ground. The goblins, led by their king, force Gabriel to join them in their underworld festivities. In this fantastical realm, Gabriel witnesses scenes from his past and present, highlighting his callous behavior and the impact it has had on those around him.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Charlotte Riddell, born Charlotte Cowan in 1832, was a prolific and accomplished British writer during the Victorian era. She was recognized for her contributions to the literary landscape, particularly in the genres of Gothic fiction and supernatural tales.

Riddell began her writing career in the mid-19th century, initially publishing under the pseudonym F. G. Trafford. Her early works demonstrated a keen interest in the mysterious and the macabre, drawing inspiration from the popular Gothic tradition of the time. One of her notable early works is "The Moors and the Fens," a collection of supernatural tales published in 1879.

However, it was under her own name that Riddell gained widespread recognition. Her most well-known works include novels such as "George Geith of Fen Court" (1864) and "The Race for Wealth" (1865). These novels explored themes of finance, social class, and the changing landscape of Victorian society.

Riddell's literary career was not limited to novels; she was also a prolific short story writer. Her short stories often delved into the eerie and uncanny, earning her a reputation as a skilled writer of ghost stories. Notable collections of her short stories include "Weird Stories" (1882) and "The Uninhabited House" (1875).

Beyond her success as a writer, Charlotte Riddell faced the challenges of being a woman in a male-dominated literary world. Despite these obstacles, she managed to establish herself as a respected author and editor. Riddell's contributions to the literary landscape of her time were acknowledged, and she became a notable figure in the Victorian literary scene.

In addition to her writing, Riddell was involved in editorial work. She co-edited the St. James's Magazine, demonstrating her commitment to fostering literary talent and contributing to the cultural discourse of the era.

Charlotte Riddell's literary career spanned several decades, and her works continue to be studied and appreciated by scholars of Victorian literature. Her exploration of the supernatural, combined with astute observations of society, has left a lasting legacy in the realm of 19th-century British literature.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Edmund Gill Swain, born on the 19th of February 1861 in Stockport, Cheshire, was a respected English cleric and author known for his contributions to the ghost story genre. Educated at Manchester Grammar School and Emmanuel College, Cambridge, Swain pursued Natural Sciences. Ordained as a deacon in 1885 and a priest in 1886 at Rochester, he served as a curate in Camberwell before assuming the role of chaplain at King's College, Cambridge, alongside the notable scholar and author M. R. James. The two shared living quarters within the college, fostering a collegial relationship that extended beyond their professional roles. Swain's duties included teaching at the college's choir school, showcasing his multifaceted engagement in academic life. His literary legacy reached a notable point with the 1912 publication of "The Stoneground Ghost Tales," a collection that demonstrated his skill in the supernatural and positioned him as an early imitator of James, leaving a lasting imprint on the genre.

Within the collection, "Bone to His Bone" stands out as a quietly intriguing narrative. Set on a Christmas Eve, the story follows Reverend Bachtel, seeking matches in the dark, only to encounter a mysterious book on gardening. This spectral tome, once owned by a long-departed rector, subtly guides him to a specific spot in the garden. The unfolding events, marked by an understated approach to bibliomancy, reflect Swain's ability to handle hauntings without sensationalism. "Bone to His Bone" quietly underscores Swain's finesse, blending a touch of gentle humor with the supernatural, presenting a nuanced exploration of the ghostly that avoids overstatement.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dorothy Kathleen Broster, known by her pen name D.K. Broster, stands as a notable but often overlooked figure in literature, recognized for her exceptional talent in crafting short horror stories. Despite her relative obscurity in contemporary discussions, her contributions to the genre, particularly with works like "Couching at the Door," showcase her prowess in weaving tales of the supernatural.

"Couching at the Door," although reprinted numerous times, may not be considered her magnum opus by some. Instead, stories like "Clairvoyance," "The Window," and "From the Abyss" are hailed as hidden gems, overlooked yet deserving of greater recognition. These tales, according to enthusiasts, have stood the test of time, maintaining their eerie allure even in the present day.

Born in England in 1877, D.K. Broster led a multifaceted life. Her experiences as a Red Cross nurse during World War I added depth to her writing, and she gained acclaim for her historical novels. However, it is her foray into the supernatural short story genre that captivates readers seeking tales of the macabre.

"Couching at the Door" (1933) unfolds the unsettling narrative of a poet haunted by a mysterious fur boa, a spectre from his past misdeeds. The story delves into the psychological realm, employing dream imagery to enhance the eerie atmosphere. The protagonist's desperate attempts to transfer this spectral presence to another add a layer of suspense and intrigue.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hugh and Margaret Grainger rent a lovely old house near a golf course. At the bottom of the garden is a mysterious, well-kept thatched cottage that appears unoccupied. 

However, a visitor senses a strange presence within and occasionally sees lights or figures inside. Margaret, fascinated with communicating via planchette, starts receiving odd messages from an entity calling himself "the gardener." 

He announces a desire to enter the main house, catapulting the Graingers into disturbing events. 

The empty cottage is not so empty after all, and the gardener's unseen presence brings terror to the once-idyllic home. 

Through the planchette, Margaret has unlocked a portal between worlds, allowing a malevolent spirit access into the realm of the living. Now the Graingers must confront the implications of meddling with forces beyond their understanding.

I was sent the anthology The Dead of Winter

https://profilebooks.com/work/the-dead-of-winter/

By profile books. The Gardener by E F Benson is one of ten classic winter ghost stories in that anthology edited by Cecily Gayford. 

Thanks to Profile Books for the copy they sent me.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Adrian Christopher Synnot Cole, the celebrated British author, was born in Plymouth, England, on July 22, 1949. His early years were shaped by a family sojourn in Malaya due to his father's military service, which instilled in him a passion for the fantasy and science fiction genres. Influenced by literary classics like Tarzan and King Solomon's Mines, as well as cinematic marvels such as "Earth versus the Flying Saucers" and the original "Classics Illustrated War of the Worlds," and the works of Algernon Blackwood, Lovecraft, and Dennis Wheatley, he developed a deep-rooted love for the extraordinary.

Adrian Cole's literary journey began when he discovered "The Lord of the Rings" while working in a public library in Birmingham. This masterpiece inspired him to craft his own epic, the "Dream Lords" trilogy. His writing career expanded to encompass ghost stories, horror, and fantasy, leading to the publication of four novels in England. Notably, his captivating tales received recognition in prestigious collections, and his editorial talents shone through in curations. Beyond his literary pursuits, he held various professional roles, including that of a librarian and an educational administrator.

Among his many literary contributions, one particularly intriguing story, "The Horror Under Penmire" (1974), stands out. In this chilling tale, the protagonist, Phil, embarks on a quest to locate the mythical town of Penmire in remote Cornwall, following a plea for help from his friend Roy. However, upon his arrival, he finds Roy missing, and the locals deny any knowledge of his whereabouts. Unfazed, Phil stumbles upon Roy's mysterious notations, one of which alludes to the ominous name "Dagon," a reference that resonates profoundly with fans of H.P. Lovecraft's work. This narrative weaves a web of suspense and Lovecraftian intrigue, adding another layer to Adrian Cole's multifaceted literary career.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Arthur Erskine Ellis, born on October 1, 1902, in Bangalore, British India, was a distinguished British biologist and author known for his remarkable contributions in two distinct realms. On the one hand, he was a dedicated scientist who left a lasting legacy in the field of malacology, particularly in the study of non-marine mollusks. His extensive body of work in this area, including numerous publications, established him as an authority in British non-marine malacology. From 1919 to 1961, he also demonstrated his passion for botany by contributing specimens of spermatophytes to various herbariums in Britain. His scientific pursuits reflected his deep appreciation for the natural world and his commitment to preserving its biodiversity.

On the other hand, Arthur Erskine Ellis showcased his creative talents as an author, specializing in ghost stories. Notably, one of his notable works, "The Haunted Haven," delves into the supernatural with a chilling narrative set in Ticlas Haven, a fishing village off St. Brides Bay. This story revolves around three surly brothers who commit a heinous act – drowning their parsimonious uncle during a storm at sea in the hopes of inheriting his fortune. However, their plan takes a sinister turn as, within three months of the murder, each brother meets a tragic end. Subsequently, their vengeful, zombie-like spectres terrorize the villagers by embarking on eerie, ghostly journeys in their wrecked fishing smack after dark. The village doctor and innkeeper are compelled to intervene and put an end to the ghostly capers, but the spectres, resentful of interference, continue to haunt the South Haven, creating a chilling and suspenseful tale that is a testament to Ellis's prowess as a writer in the realm of the supernatural.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Oscar Wilde (1854-1900) was a renowned Irish playwright, poet, and author known for his exceptional wit, flamboyant style, and profound contributions to late 19th-century literature. Born in Dublin, Wilde attended Oxford University and soon established himself as a prominent figure in London's literary and social circles. His works, including "The Picture of Dorian Gray" and "The Importance of Being Earnest," are celebrated for their clever dialogue, social satire, and exploration of the human condition. Wilde's unique blend of comedy, satire, and poignant commentary on Victorian society made him one of the most influential figures of his time. Unfortunately, his career took a tragic turn when he was convicted of "gross indecency" for his homosexuality, leading to his imprisonment and eventual death in Paris.

"The Canterville Ghost" is a classic novella penned by Oscar Wilde, first published in 1887. This humorous and haunting tale tells the story of the Otis family, Americans who move into Canterville Chase, a grand old English manor said to be haunted by Sir Simon, a ghost from centuries past. The novella is an exemplary demonstration of Wilde's wit and comedic genius, as he contrasts American pragmatism with British aristocracy and tradition. Wilde's sharp observations and clever humor in "The Canterville Ghost" provide a refreshing take on the traditional ghost story genre, injecting it with a delightful blend of satire and hilarity.

Published during Wilde's literary peak, the novella garnered critical acclaim for its innovation and wit, positioning it as a unique departure from the conventional ghost stories of its era. Its humorous exploration of the clash between the Old World and the New World captivated readers. While it did not receive as much attention as some of Wilde's other works, "The Canterville Ghost" remains a cherished piece of literature and a testament to his enduring influence on the literary world.

New Patreon Request

Buzzsprout - Let's get your podcast launched! 
Start for FREE

Visit us here: www.ghostpod.org
Buy me a coffee if you're glad I do this: https://ko-fi.com/tonywalker
If you really want to help me, become a Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/barcud
Music by The Heartwood Institute: https://bit.ly/somecomeback

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Joseph Payne Brennan (1918-1990) was an American writer renowned for his contributions to horror, fantasy, and science fiction. Born in Bridgeport, Connecticut, he nurtured his passion for writing from a young age and later pursued his love for literature at Yale University. Brennan's career as a librarian and researcher allowed him to immerse himself in the world of storytelling. In the 1950s and 1960s, he made a significant impact in the speculative fiction realm with his supernatural and psychologically gripping tales.

Brennan was a prolific writer, known for his association with the Cthulhu Mythos, a shared universe created by H.P. Lovecraft and others. His works, such as "The Slime," "Levitation," and "The Feaster from Afar," showcased his mastery of eerie atmospheres and profound understanding of the human psyche. As an editor, he co-founded the influential magazine "Macabre" and also pursued his talents in poetry. Even after his passing in 1990, Joseph Payne Brennan's legacy endures, as his vivid storytelling and terrifying narratives continue to captivate and inspire fans of horror and fantasy literature.

New Patreon Request

Buzzsprout - Let's get your podcast launched! 
Start for FREE

Visit us here: www.ghostpod.org
Buy me a coffee if you're glad I do this: https://ko-fi.com/tonywalker
If you really want to help me, become a Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/barcud
Music by The Heartwood Institute: https://bit.ly/somecomeback

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Robert Silverberg, born in Brooklyn, New York, on January 15, 1935, is a highly esteemed author known for his significant contributions to the world of speculative fiction. With a career spanning several decades, Silverberg's journey into the literary world began in his early teenage years when he started submitting stories to science fiction magazines. He graduated from Columbia University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in English Literature in 1956, all while crafting stories that would earn him recognition as the "best new writer" with his first Hugo Award that same year. Notably, Silverberg's prolific output during the 1950s and 1960s, with an average of five published stories per month, established him as a prominent figure in the genre.

However, in the late 1950s, Silverberg diversified his writing efforts to other genres due to changes in the science fiction market. This period saw him prolifically producing works under various pseudonyms, including a substantial collection of erotic novels published as "Don Elliott." His transition to exploring more literary themes began in the 1960s, a shift marked by his association with the "New Wave" movement and a renewed focus on character development and social depth. Later in his life, after experiencing personal challenges, he retired from writing in 1975 but returned with renewed vigor in 1980 with the acclaimed "Lord Valentine's Castle." In 2005, he received the prestigious title of SFWA Grand Master from the Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America, cementing his legacy in the genre.

During this period, Silverberg produced a string of critically acclaimed novels, including "To Open the Sky," "Downward to the Earth," "To Live Again," "The World Inside," and "Dying Inside." These works showcased his ability to merge profound themes with gripping narratives and garnered him multiple Hugo and Nebula Award nominations and wins. His return to writing in 1980 with "Lord Valentine's Castle" marked the beginning of the beloved Majipoor series, known for its intricate world-building and rich character development.

New Patreon Request

Buzzsprout - Let's get your podcast launched! 
Start for FREE

Visit us here: www.ghostpod.org
Buy me a coffee if you're glad I do this: https://ko-fi.com/tonywalker
If you really want to help me, become a Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/barcud
Music by The Heartwood Institute: https://bit.ly/somecomeback

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices