“Snakes” is a horror novel by Guy N. Smith, first published in 1978. It’s one of Smith’s standalone works, known for its blend of suspense, action, and visceral horror centered around the theme of deadly snakes.
Plot Summary
In “Snakes,” the protagonist finds himself facing a terrifying ordeal when a plague of deadly snakes descends upon a remote English village. As the venomous serpents begin to strike with deadly precision, panic grips the community, and the death toll rises steadily.
The protagonist, along with a group of villagers and outsiders, must band together to survive the onslaught of the deadly snakes. As they struggle to fend off the relentless attacks, tensions rise, and trust becomes scarce.
With each passing day, the survivors must confront not only the physical threat posed by the snakes but also the darker impulses lurking within themselves. As fear and paranoia take hold, alliances are tested, and betrayals are revealed, leading to a desperate fight for survival against an enemy that seems unstoppable.
Themes and Style
- Survival Horror: “Snakes” explores themes of survival, fear, and human nature under extreme duress, as the characters grapple with the deadly threat of the snakes and the psychological toll it takes on them.
- Action and Suspense: The novel is characterized by its fast-paced action sequences and suspenseful encounters with the deadly snakes, keeping readers on the edge of their seats throughout.
- Environmental Horror: Smith taps into primal fears with the idea of nature turning against humanity in the form of a plague of deadly snakes, adding a visceral and terrifying element to the story.
Reception
“Snakes” received generally positive reviews from readers and critics, who praised its suspenseful plot, visceral horror, and relentless pacing. The novel’s blend of action, suspense, and environmental horror resonated with audiences, making it a memorable 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 ability to craft thrilling and suspenseful horror narratives.
Legacy
“Snakes” remains a standout example of Smith’s talent for creating gripping and suspenseful horror stories. Its exploration of primal fears and survival instincts continues to captivate readers, cementing its place as a classic in the genre of environmental horror.