The greatest horror ever written in the English language. Those who like their literature flowery and baroque; this is not for them. It is straightforward prose and for this reason, many simply cannot bear it out. The reader will find a knowledge of history and true-crime nearly indispensable for a full grasp of the themes and suggestions. To pull-off this monstrosity, Machen had to leave the seams visible, and detractors are all too quick to point out the faults of the story. Lovecraft's favourite horror, King's favourite horror; does any more need to be said? The astute reader is left wondering how much of the tale is actually true, with Machen making vague reference to some of the 19th Century's more horrific crimes.