“The Wood” is a horror novel written by Guy N. Smith, first published in 1985. It is known for its atmospheric setting, suspenseful storytelling, and exploration of supernatural themes.
Plot Summary
“The Wood” centers around the mysterious and foreboding Blackwood, a dense and ancient forest that looms over the small English village of Melchester. The protagonist, often an outsider or a local resident drawn into the mystery, becomes entangled in the dark secrets and malevolent forces that lurk within the depths of the wood.
As the narrative unfolds, the villagers are plagued by a series of strange occurrences and inexplicable phenomena that seem to emanate from the heart of the forest. These manifestations of evil, ranging from unexplained disappearances to terrifying apparitions, instill fear and paranoia among the villagers as they grapple with forces beyond their comprehension.
Amidst the chaos and terror, the protagonist must confront their own fears and doubts as they delve deeper into the mysteries of the wood. Along the way, they encounter a cast of eccentric characters, including skeptical authorities, superstitious locals, and individuals with their own dark agendas.
As the tension mounts and the supernatural occurrences escalate, the protagonist must unravel the truth behind the sinister forces that haunt the wood and confront the ancient evil that threatens to consume them and the entire village.
Themes and Style
- Supernatural Horror: “The Wood” explores themes of the supernatural, including ghosts, malevolent spirits, and ancient curses that haunt the forest and its inhabitants.
- Atmospheric Setting: Smith’s vivid descriptions of the Blackwood create a foreboding and atmospheric backdrop for the story, enhancing the sense of dread and suspense.
- Mystery and Intrigue: The novel is characterized by its mystery and intrigue, as the protagonist delves into the dark secrets of the wood and uncovers the truth behind the supernatural forces that haunt its residents.
- Psychological Suspense: Smith creates tension and suspense through psychological means, tapping into the fears and anxieties of the characters as they confront the unknown and the inexplicable.
Reception
“The Wood” received positive reviews from fans of Guy N. Smith and horror enthusiasts. Readers praised the novel for its atmospheric setting, suspenseful plot, and memorable characters. The blend of supernatural horror, mystery, and psychological suspense resonated with audiences, making it a popular choice among fans of the genre.
Legacy
“The Wood” remains a beloved entry in Guy N. Smith’s extensive bibliography, showcasing his talent for crafting chilling and suspenseful horror tales. Its exploration of supernatural themes and its atmospheric storytelling continue to captivate readers, cementing its status as a classic in the realm of horror fiction.
Such woodlands are beautiful, twisted oaks several hundred years old, lichen, wildflowers etc. But they are also eerie. What took place here in the distant past? The mind boggles – devil worship, human sacrifice, obscene orgies? Who knows?
One wood which plays havoc with my imagination is Wistman’s Wood’ on Dartmoor. Google it and see for yourself. Conan Doyle stayed in the area to research material for his famous ‘Hound of the Baskervilles’ and I have no doubt that Wistman’s Wood was a major source of inspiration. It is said to be haunted and locals avoid it after night. Most certainly I would not care to venture there after dark.
So, in 1985 I wrote ‘The Wood’ (New English Library). “With the mist came figures from the past, lurching, reaching out to clutch and choke and smother…”
The book was highly successful. The first edition is recognizable by its title in green, reprints were mauve. Front cover blurb: ‘The Living died but the Dead lived on.’ The skeletal figure portrayed on the cover sends shivers down your spine.
“The Wood” was also published in the USA and Poland. It is one of my own favourites. Writing it was a scary experience!
Guy N. Smith
Ancient woodlands have always fascinated me. This began with Hopwas Wood, directly behind my family home, from a very early age when my grandfather used to take me for walks there. This was the location of that World War II bomb crater which filled up with water and its surface was thick with algae. Years later it became ‘The Sucking Pit’ in my second novel.
Such woodlands are beautiful, twisted oaks several hundred years old, lichen, wildflowers etc. But they are also eerie. What took place here in the distant past? The mind boggles – devil worship, human sacrifice, obscene orgies? Who knows?
One wood which plays havoc with my imagination is Wistman’s Wood’ on Dartmoor. Google it and see for yourself. Conan Doyle stayed in the area to research material for his famous ‘Hound of the Baskervilles’ and I have no doubt that Wistman’s Wood was a major source of inspiration. It is said to be haunted and locals avoid it after night. Most certainly I would not care to venture there after dark.
So, in 1985 I wrote ‘The Wood’ (New English Library). “With the mist came figures from the past, lurching, reaching out to clutch and choke and smother…”
The book was highly successful. The first edition is recognizable by its title in green, reprints were mauve. Front cover blurb: ‘The Living died but the Dead lived on.’ The skeletal figure portrayed on the cover sends shivers down your spine.
“The Wood” was also published in the USA and Poland. It is one of my own favourites. Writing it was a scary experience!
Guy N. Smith