L'épouvante by Maurice Level
If you think horror needs blood and gore to work, Maurice Level's 'L'épouvante' (which translates to 'The Terror' or 'The Dread') is here to prove you wrong. Written over a century ago, this French short story strips fear down to its bare, nervous bones.
The Story
A man lies awake in his bed at night. The house is quiet, but then he hears it: a faint, persistent scratching sound coming from the room next door. The room is supposed to be empty. As he listens, frozen, the noise continues—methodical, unexplained. He is utterly alone, armed with nothing but his own thoughts. The story follows his internal battle as he swings between rational explanations and sheer panic. Every creak of the house becomes a threat, and the simple act of waiting becomes unbearable. Does he investigate the sound and face what might be there, or does he stay put, a prisoner to his own mounting dread?
Why You Should Read It
What's brilliant about this story is how Level makes inaction so incredibly tense. There's no grand chase, just a man and his racing mind. He captures that universal, middle-of-the-night fear perfectly—the way ordinary shadows become sinister when you're scared. It’s a reminder that the most powerful horror lives in the anticipation, in the questions we ask ourselves in the dark. The character isn't a hero; he's just like us, vulnerable and imagining the worst.
Final Verdict
This is a must-read for fans of quiet, psychological horror. If you love the creeping dread in stories by Edgar Allan Poe or the slow-burn tension of modern authors like Shirley Jackson, you'll find a kindred spirit in Maurice Level. It's also perfect for anyone who wants a quick, potent dose of suspense—you can read it in one sitting, but the feeling it creates will linger. Just maybe not right before bed.
You are viewing a work that belongs to the global public domain. It is available for public use and education.
Mason Nguyen
1 month agoI stumbled upon this title and the content flows smoothly from one chapter to the next. A true masterpiece.
Andrew Sanchez
2 months agoI came across this while browsing and the plot twists are genuinely surprising. Highly recommended.
Logan Lopez
1 year agoIf you enjoy this genre, the atmosphere created is totally immersive. Don't hesitate to start reading.