Down a Dark Hall
by Lois Duncan
Kit Gordy is sent to a boarding school where she and other students develop new talents, channeling spirits of historical figures. She tries to escape before the bond becomes permanent.
Tropes & Themes
About This Book
Kit Gordy, a sixteen-year-old girl, is sent to the secluded Blackwood Boarding School after her mother's remarriage. The imposing mansion exudes a foreboding atmosphere, and Kit is disturbed to find her room locks only from the outside. She meets the other students—Lynda, Ruth, and Sandy—each exhibiting newfound talents: Lynda's exceptional painting, Ruth's mathematical prowess, and Sandy's poetic abilities.
As the girls delve into their mysterious abilities, they discover that Madame Duret, the school's headmistress, is channeling the spirits of deceased artists, scientists, and musicians through them. Kit realizes that if they don't escape before Christmas, the psychic bonds will become permanent, trapping their souls. The tension escalates as the girls confront the dark forces within Blackwood, leading to a suspenseful and intense struggle for their freedom.
What Readers Say
Readers appreciate the book's eerie atmosphere and suspenseful mood. Many praise Lois Duncan's writing for its vivid descriptions and engaging narrative. Fans note the novel's emotional impact, evoking a sense of unease and tension. Some readers criticize the pacing, feeling it slows down in the middle sections. Ideal for fans of classic gothic horror seeking a quick, atmospheric read.
