51 pages • 1 hour read
We Have Always Lived in the Castle
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Book Brief
146
Novel • Fiction
New England • 1960s
1962
Adult
16-18 years
920L
Super Short Summary
We Have Always Lived in the Castle by Shirley Jackson follows Mary Katherine "Merricat" Blackwood and her sister Constance, who live in isolation following a family tragedy involving arsenic poisoning. Their secluded life is disrupted by the arrival of their cousin Charles, leading to conflict and further calamity. The novella explores themes of family, isolation, and societal judgment. Includes themes of murder.
Mysterious
Unnerving
Dark
Melancholic
Contemplative
Reviews & Readership
257,933 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Shirley Jackson's We Have Always Lived in the Castle is widely praised for its gripping atmosphere and rich character development, particularly the protagonist, Merricat. The novel's gothic elements and psychological depth are frequently highlighted. Some readers, however, find the pacing slow. Overall, it's regarded as a captivating and eerie read.
Who Should Read We Have Always Lived in the Castle?
Fans of gothic fiction and psychological thrillers will relish We Have Always Lived in the Castle by Shirley Jackson. If you appreciate the eerie atmospheres of The Haunting of Hill House or the unsettling family dynamics in Rebecca, this captivating story of isolation and dark secrets is for you.
257,933 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Constance Blackwood
Constance Blackwood
Merricat's older sister by ten years, who takes on the domestic responsibilities in Blackwood Manor. Despite being acquitted of a significant crime, she continues to be viewed with suspicion by the village.
Julian Blackwood
Julian Blackwood
The elderly uncle of Merricat and Constance, who survived a family tragedy and remains preoccupied with its details. He is cared for by his nieces while reliving past events through his ongoing investigations.
Charles Blackwood
Charles Blackwood
A 34-year-old cousin who visits Blackwood Manor with an interest in the family fortune. His presence disrupts the existing household dynamics and he is portrayed through Merricat's critical perspective.
146
Novel • Fiction
New England • 1960s
1962
Adult
16-18 years
920L
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