“Night of the Werewolf” is a horror novel by Guy N. Smith, first published in 1984. It is part of Smith’s “Werewolf” series, which explores the classic theme of lycanthropy—humans transforming into werewolves—and its terrifying consequences.
Plot Summary
Guy N. Smith delivers an excellent werewolf tale in his signature style, blending fast-paced narrative with rich, engaging characters. As is typical of Smith’s work, the story flows effortlessly, eschewing extraneous detail to maintain a taut, gripping pace. The characters are introduced swiftly yet effectively, ensuring the reader is immediately drawn into their world.
The heroes—a seasoned werewolf hunter and a young married couple—are particularly compelling, their personal struggles and bravery adding depth to the relentless terror they face. Smith’s depiction of the werewolf is truly terrifying, adhering closely to traditional folklore to create a monster that is both fearsome and utterly unsympathetic.
Each chapter introduces a new twist, keeping the reader on edge as the plot hurtles towards a breathless climax. Smith’s storytelling is reminiscent of classic horror cinema, and one can’t help but imagine this tale as a great Hammer film, with its atmospheric tension and vivid, dramatic confrontations.
For fans of werewolf lore and horror fiction, this novel is a definite must-read. Smith’s ability to blend traditional horror elements with engaging storytelling makes this book a standout in the genre. Every page turns with a sense of impending dread, making it impossible to put down until the final, thrilling conclusion. Highly recommended for all werewolf aficionados and horror enthusiasts.
Themes and Style
- Werewolf Horror: “Night of the Werewolf” explores the classic theme of lycanthropy, with the werewolf serving as the central antagonist of the story.
- Atmospheric Setting: Smith creates a dark and foreboding atmosphere within the English village, with its mist-shrouded moors and shadowy forests adding to the sense of dread and unease experienced by the characters.
- Action and Suspense: The novel is characterised by its fast-paced action sequences and suspenseful encounters with the werewolf, keeping readers on the edge of their seats throughout.
Reception
“Night of the Werewolf” received generally positive reviews from readers and critics, who praised its atmospheric setting, gripping plot, and memorable characters. The novel’s blend of horror and suspense 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 featured elements of the supernatural, the macabre, and the grotesque. He gained widespread recognition for his “Werewolf” series, which became a cult classic among horror enthusiasts.
Legacy
“Night of the Werewolf” remains a beloved installment in Smith’s “Werewolf” series, offering fans of supernatural horror another thrilling and chilling adventure. The novel’s enduring popularity speaks to Smith’s ability to craft compelling narratives that blend horror, suspense, and action in equal measure.
Night of the Werewolf
152 King Crabs Nachtmahl (Night of the Crabs)
309 Die Todesvogel (Bats out of Hell)
318 Die Killer-Krebse (Killer Crabs)
332 Das Schleim-Monster (The Slime Beast)
336 Die Ruckkehr des Werwolfs (Return of the Werewolf)
375 Die Geburt der Krebse (origin of the Crabs)
421 Die Todesgloche (Deathbell)
These were in magazine format and today are highly collectable, commanding high prices.
Always with an eye to new markets, both at home and overseas, I contacted Erich Pabel and enquired if they would be interested in an original novel by myself. They replied within a week, “yes please, but it has to be a werewolf novel.”
Fair enough, so I wrote ‘Night of the Werewolf’. This is in no way connected to my Werewolf trilogy (New English Library), instead a one-off. The latter were set around my home on the Shropshire/Welsh border so this time I chose Scotland as the location.
It was published as No.186 in the series and entitled ‘Der Ruf des Werwolfs’.
Shortly after publication Erich Pabel wrote to me to inform me that before they could pay me they needed written proof from a UK Income Tax inspector to the effect that I would be liable for tax in my own country.
So I made an appointment to meet an Inland Revenue official. I was kept waiting for the best part of an hour and then this staid, humourless inspector turned up. I presented him with the publishers’ letter and my contract. He read them and then regarded me with what I can only describe as suspicion. Was I pulling a fast one? What had werewolves to do with payment from Germany? Maybe he thought it was some kind of money laundering fraud!
Anyway, after numerous questions, the answers to which seemed to satisfy him, he signed the German tax document. I think by this time he thought I was some kind of nut case but quite harmless!
Years later ‘Night of the Werewolf’ was serialised in my fan magazine ‘Graveyard Rendezvous’ and the book is now published in English by Black Hill Books.
Guy N. Smith