Joseph Thomas Sheridan Le Fanu (1814 – 1873) was an Irish writer known for his contribution to the gothic horror genre. Born in Dublin to a literary family, he became one of the leading ghost story writers of the nineteenth century, often blending Irish folklore with the supernatural. Le Fanu's most famous novella, 'Carmilla' (1872), has been a significant influence on vampire literature, predating Bram Stoker's 'Dracula' by over two decades. 'Carmilla' introduces a female vampire and explores themes of sexuality and the uncanny, which was rare at the time. Le Fanu's work typically features elements of mystery and terror, often leveraging the anxieties of his era, including societal change and scientific skepticism. His literary style is marked by a slow and steady build-up of suspense, leading to a climactic reveal that addresses both the supernatural and psychological aspects of his narratives. Le Fanu's other notable works include 'Uncle Silas' (1864) and 'In a Glass Darkly' (1872), which is a collection of tales delving into the eerie and spectral. His contributions have sealed his reputation as a seminal figure in horror writing, impacting both contemporaries and subsequent generations of writers in the genre.