“Thirst II: The Plague” is a horror novel by Guy N. Smith, published in 1976. It is the sequel to Smith’s earlier novel “Thirst,” continuing the story of vampire terror in a rural English setting.
Plot Summary
In “Thirst II: The Plague,” the village of Leppington continues to reel from the aftermath of the vampire Count Karl von Bach’s reign of terror. However, the horrors are far from over as a new threat emerges. The residents of Leppington find themselves facing a deadly plague that ravages the village, spreading like wildfire and claiming countless lives.
Amidst the chaos and despair, the protagonist, often a survivor from the first novel or a new character drawn into the nightmare, must confront the sinister forces behind the plague. As the bodies pile up and the village descends into madness, the protagonist must uncover the truth behind the outbreak and find a way to stop it before it’s too late.
The narrative follows the protagonist’s desperate struggle for survival as they navigate the horrors of the plague-stricken village, confronting the undead and other malevolent forces that threaten to consume them. Along the way, they encounter other survivors, each with their own stories of loss, tragedy, and resilience in the face of overwhelming odds.
Themes and Style
- Continuation of Vampire Horror: “Thirst II: The Plague” continues the themes of vampire horror introduced in the first novel, exploring the consequences of the vampire’s actions and the ongoing struggle against the forces of darkness.
- Epidemic Horror: The novel incorporates elements of epidemic horror, as the village grapples with the deadly plague that threatens to wipe out the entire population.
- Survival and Desperation: Smith’s narrative delves into themes of survival and desperation as the protagonist fights to stay alive in the face of overwhelming adversity.
- Exploration of Evil: “Thirst II: The Plague” also explores the nature of evil and the lengths to which individuals will go to survive, even at the cost of their own humanity.
Reception
“Thirst II: The Plague” received positive reviews from fans of Guy N. Smith and horror enthusiasts. Readers praised the novel for its suspenseful plot, atmospheric setting, and memorable characters. The continuation of the vampire horror and the introduction of the epidemic theme resonated with audiences, making it a popular choice among fans of the genre.
Legacy
“Thirst II: The Plague” remains a beloved instalment in Guy N. Smith’s extensive bibliography, further expanding the world of vampire terror and epidemic horror. Its exploration of survival, desperation, and the nature of evil continues to captivate readers, cementing its status as a classic in the realm of horror fiction.