“Return of the Werewolf” is a horror novel by Guy N. Smith, first published in 1977. It’s part of Smith’s “Werewolf” series, known for its blend of suspense, action, and supernatural elements revolving around lycanthropy—humans transforming into werewolves.
Plot Summary
The Black Hill werewolf, Philip Owen, has been dead for a year, and the region has enjoyed a year of peace and normalcy. But that peace is shattered when a series of brutal maulings begins anew, eerily reminiscent of Owen’s reign of terror. To add to the growing fear, Philip Owen’s body has mysteriously disappeared from his grave, casting a dark shadow over the community once more.
Gordon Hall, the seasoned hunter who brought Owen to justice a year ago, is called back to the Black Hill to assist in the investigation. As he delves into the case, Hall discovers that Owen’s grave has been desecrated, and the exhumation of his body is just the beginning of a new nightmare. The realization hits hard: a new werewolf is on the loose, and it is more ferocious and elusive than ever before.
Hall, with his intimate knowledge of the original werewolf and his hunting prowess, becomes the community’s best hope. He teams up with local authorities and delves into the eerie folklore and recent strange occurrences that hint at the new werewolf’s origins. The tension mounts as Hall tracks the beast, piecing together clues that lead him into the darkest corners of Black Hill’s forests and the deepest fears of its residents.
The novel masterfully blends suspense and horror, keeping readers on the edge of their seats as Hall’s pursuit of the werewolf intensifies. The atmosphere of dread is palpable, with each chapter heightening the sense of impending doom. Hall must confront not only the physical threat of the werewolf but also the psychological terror that comes with facing a seemingly unstoppable force of nature.
As the full moon rises and the werewolf’s attacks become more frequent and savage, Hall races against time to uncover the truth behind the new werewolf’s identity and to stop the creature before it can claim more victims. The stakes are higher than ever, and the cost of failure could be catastrophic.
This thrilling tale of horror and suspense is a gripping follow-up to the original story of the Black Hill werewolf, delivering a chilling and action-packed narrative that will haunt readers long after they turn the final page.
Themes and Style
- Werewolf Horror: “Return 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 countryside, with its mist-shrouded moors and isolated villages adding to the sense of dread and unease experienced by the characters.
- Action and Suspense: The novel is characterized by its fast-paced action sequences and suspenseful encounters with the werewolf, keeping readers on the edge of their seats throughout.
Reception
“Return 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
“Return 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.