"The Return of the Soul" by Robert Smythe Hichens is a captivating tale that blends elements of mystery, romance, and supernatural intrigue. The story follows a young woman named Aline, who becomes the vessel for a wandering soul seeking to reclaim its rightful body.

Hichens skillfully weaves a complex narrative that delves into themes of fate, love, and the afterlife. The character development is masterfully done, with Aline's internal struggles and moral dilemmas adding depth to the plot. The author's vivid descriptions paint a vivid picture of turn-of-the-century London and the exotic locales that Aline finds herself in.

The pacing of the book is steady, with twists and turns that keep the reader engaged until the very end. The atmospheric setting and eerie undertones create a sense of suspense and unease that adds to the overall sense of mystery.

Overall, "The Return of the Soul" is a beautifully written and thought-provoking novel that will appeal to fans of gothic fiction and supernatural thrillers. Hichens' prose is evocative and lyrical, drawing the reader into a world where the boundaries between the living and the dead blur. Highly recommended for those looking for a compelling read that will linger in the mind long after the final page is turned.

Book Description:
Can the soul of the dead come back to haunt the one who was responsible for its death? What would happen if the responsible one did not believe it could be so, and yet was in love with the returned soul? The Return of the Soul is a horror story of a man who is visited by the returning soul of a deceased, and who has some very perplexing issues to deal with upon that return. (Introduction by Roger Melin)