"Demon of the Gibbet" by Fitz-James O'Brien is a gripping tale of revenge, betrayal, and redemption set in the aftermath of the French Revolution. The story follows a young man named Jules, who seeks to avenge the murder of his father at the hands of the notorious pirate Captain Daumesnil. As Jules embarks on his quest for vengeance, he is forced to confront the dark forces that lurk within his own soul.

O'Brien's writing is atmospheric and evocative, drawing the reader into the shadowy world of 18th century France. The characters are complex and multifaceted, with their own motivations and desires that drive the plot forward. The pacing is brisk and relentless, keeping the reader on the edge of their seat until the very end.

One of the standout elements of the story is the portrayal of the titular Demon of the Gibbet, a malevolent spirit that haunts the French countryside and plays a pivotal role in the protagonist's journey. O'Brien does an excellent job of weaving together elements of horror, suspense, and folklore to create a truly chilling antagonist.

Overall, "Demon of the Gibbet" is a thrilling and immersive read that will appeal to fans of historical fiction, horror, and adventure. O'Brien's skillful storytelling and vivid prose make this a book that is sure to linger in the reader's mind long after the final page has been turned.

Book Description:
LibriVox volunteers bring you 12 recordings of The Demon of the Gibbet by Fitz-James O'Brien. This was the Fortnightly Poetry project for February 10, 2013.Fitz James O'Brien was an Irish-born American writer, some of whose work is often considered a forerunner of today's science fiction. After emigrating to the United States in 1852 he contibuted numerous articles in prose and verse to Harpers Magazine, Vanity Fair and Atlantic Monthly. He died IN April 1862 from severe wounds suffered in the American Civil War.