I noticed that Donald Wandrei mentions liking James Hogg's "Confessions of a Justified Sinner," in a letter to Lovecraft. Lovecraft in turn seemed eager to read the book in response to Wanderei's positive review. However, I can't find any indication that Lovecraft ever actually read it. In any case, even if Lovecraft doesn't have anything to say about it, I'm wondering if anyone else has read it, and has an opinion.

Excellent book. I would not hesitate to list it among the dozen best 19th century novels of the supernatural.

Jim

Thanks Jim, I'll take your word for it and give the book a try in the next few months.

I'd second the recommendation. Hogg's book is an impressive piece, whether seen in the light of supernatural or psychological fiction; either way, it has an intense air of weirdness and oppression which reminds me at times of the best portions of Brown's Wieland, though it is much more consistent than the latter, I'd say. It's a brief book, as well, so you'd not be investing a great deal of time if it turns out not to be to your taste....

You are welcome. I have the Penguin and Everyman editions, which are both excellent; but I see that there are now quite a few more editions than there were when I first read the book. I imagine the Oxford and some of the others are also excellent.

Jim