“Demons” is a horror novel by Guy N. Smith, published in 1987. It’s one of Smith’s earlier works in the horror genre, known for its blend of supernatural elements, suspense, and grisly imagery.
Plot Summary
In 1987, Guy N. Smith revisited the eerie landscape of Turbury in his sequel to the acclaimed ‘Deathbell’, titled ‘Demons’. This follow-up, published by Arrow, emerged amidst a flurry of other releases from Smith, including ‘Thirst II: The Plague’, ‘Alligators’, and ‘Bloodshow’.
The tale picks up a decade after the events of ‘Deathbell’, with the cursed artifact once again looming over the desolate village. The reckless actions of local thugs lead to a resurgence of the malevolent bell’s influence, triggering a series of gruesome events that drag the remaining inhabitants of Turbury into a nightmare.
As the village resurfaces from beneath the waters of a planned reservoir, the deathbell’s tolls unleash madness and violence upon those who remain. From the terrifying transformation of local farmer Frankie Thomas to the arrival of unwitting hippies drawn to Turbury’s dark allure, the narrative unfolds with moments of chilling darkness and classic pulp horror violence.
While ‘Demons’ captures the unsettling power of the deathbell and delivers eerie descriptions of its effects on the unsuspecting, the pacing of the novel falters, with a fractured storyline that struggles to maintain momentum until the final chapters. Despite this, Smith’s skillful characterization adds depth to the narrative, though the swift development of certain relationships feels rushed and implausible.
Nevertheless, ‘Demons’ culminates in a dramatic and conclusive finale, wrapping up the Deathbell series with a satisfying resolution. However, the chosen title and cover illustration may confuse readers, as demons do not feature prominently in the storyline.
Overall, ‘Demons’ offers an enjoyable read for fans of pulp horror, with its blend of over-the-top action, dark horror, and gruesome violence. While not as fast-paced as some of Smith’s other works, it serves as a suitable sequel to the chilling tale of ‘Deathbell’.
Themes and Style
- Supernatural Horror: “Demons” explores themes of the supernatural, with demonic entities serving as the central antagonists of the story.
- Psychological Terror: The novel is characterized by its psychological depth and exploration of the protagonist’s inner demons, as he grapples with his own fears and vulnerabilities.
- Gothic Atmosphere: Smith creates a dark and atmospheric setting, with the secluded mansion serving as a sinister backdrop for the unfolding horrors.
Reception
“Demons” received generally positive reviews from readers and critics, who praised its atmospheric setting, gripping plot, and memorable characters. The novel’s blend of supernatural horror and psychological terror resonated with audiences, making it a standout entry in Smith’s bibliography.
Author Background
Guy N. Smith (1939-2020) was a British author known primarily for his horror fiction. With over 100 novels to his name, Smith’s works often feature elements of the supernatural, the macabre, and the grotesque. He gained widespread recognition for his “Crabs” series, which became a cult classic among horror enthusiasts.
Legacy
“Demons” remains a classic example of Guy N. Smith’s talent for crafting chilling and atmospheric horror narratives. While it may not be as well-known as some of his other works, it offers readers a compelling journey into the realm of supernatural terror, showcasing Smith’s ability to create suspenseful and unsettling storytelling.