The first thing to notice about Hell’s Shadows is the sophisticated style translated through a simplistic choice of words. Dean Klein, the author, has no intentions of confusing his readers. Instead, he wants to tell them a tale of horror, within a fashion that will leave them bound till the end. Klein really got the tone right from the start by keeping it clean, yet effective. What could have been just another story based on a haunted house is now a vivid depiction that causes strange chills.
It follows the lives of Gil and Robin Turner, a happily married couple. She comes from money and he is used to the middle class lifestyle. Despite their differences the relationship is very deep and loving. Gil’s new job as the plant manager in Carson Creek, NC, sees them buying a house that is known for its horrific history. Against the advice from their realtor they go through with the purchase. The reason they bought the house was because something within Parsons Knoll had strangely ‘called’ to Robin while she and Gil were returning to the realtor’s office, causing her to nearly faint. Robin has no idea what just happened to her or why. She is a sensitive person who feels the emotions and pains of others…and in this case she unconsciously feels a cry for help – to come to the house – to stay – from something undead in the house though she is consciously unaware of this as well. The bond between the spirit and Robin is strong, particularly at first, so much so she strangely insists to Gil she must have the house. Gil does not understand at all this obsession with the old house, especially given its derelict condition, never mind its reputation.
From the get-go strange things begin to happen as they enter the property, but Robin is convincingly content on moving in. All the while Gil harbors a constant fear of why his wife is so determined. To make matters worse, the house is only the center of a wide circle. It has fed from the ground and the surrounding area since the 19th century, the site of a shocking ghastly evil. After making a horrific discovery in the well situated in the backyard, Gil starts to believe that Robin was meant to be there.
It’s easy to see why this book has received critical acclaim and five star reviews so far. As mentioned earlier, it’s the combination of sophistication and simplicity that speaks to a great audience. The overall pace is relatively comfortable, but the plot doesn’t take long to unfold. There is also an obvious professional touch in Klein’s style with a somewhat old-school feel. From a personal point of view, the experience of reading the book closely resembles the atmosphere of watching a movie like Children of the Corn.
One of the most interesting aspects has to be Klein’s choice to reveal a lot of information and clues so early in the story. Unfortunately, these can’t be mentioned without spoiling the plot a little, but readers will quickly recognize bits and pieces that are typically saved for the end. Even though it initiates some concern regarding future twists and turns, the reader will still be pleasantly surprised. The sheer depth of the story brings about other chills, which make up for the low-key sense of mystery in the beginning. The keen reader will pick up on Klein’s insertion of some mystery with the description of the house as provided by the Turner’s realtor to Gil and Robin.
In terms of taste, it’s not going to be every horror fan’s dream. In fact, Klein admits Hell’s Shadows was written for a female audience. Make no mistake, the book has all the characteristics of a talented writer with many creative ideas, but it is obvious that a female audience will find it more interesting. This is definitely a credit to Klein who managed to successfully tap into an area of horror rarely explored. It is obviously further demonstrated by the tone, style and pace that is more suited for patient readers who love small detail. There is a steady build up with several small climaxes so-to-speak, although some of the vivid information Klein shares may sometimes seem unnecessary to some readers. For example, the way Robin makes tea. But noting that this book was written with women in mind can justify the level of detail.
Ultimately it comes down to personal opinion, but from an objective perspective, Klein has done a great job focusing in on his target audience. That being said, men should not shy away from Hell’s Shadows as a lot of thinking went into giving new life to an old concept and there is no questioning his ability to pen down his vision.
Reviewed by Damnetha Jules
Damnetha is a staff writer, horror book and movie critic.
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