I finally saw Crimson Peak—yes, I know I’m three weeks late to the party—and I could write a book about how much I loved it. While it’s true that I am a big fan of leading man Tom Hiddleston, my love affair with this sweeping film has more to do with its genre and script. Director and writer Guillermo del Toro created a haunting gothic romance influenced by classic gothic literature. Funnily enough, I’m a big fan of gothic lit.

But first things first: if you are looking for a run-of-the-mill horror or paranormal film, this is not the movie for you. While compromised of terrifying themes, the movie itself is not scary. This is not a ghost story, but, true to gothic form, a story with ghosts in it. If you are a fan of gothic fiction, suspense, or period pieces, then read on, dear friend.