THE CELLAR by Richard Laymon

(out of 4)

THE SALT ON THE RIM: In light of the fact that Leisure Books is releasing the entire BEAST HOUSE trilogy by Richard Laymon (this is the first time the entire trilogy's been in print in the U.S. in mass market), I was extremely excited to get my copies of THE CELLAR (book 1) and THE BEAST HOUSE (book 2).

Let me set the record straight. Richard Laymon is a horror god. All should fall on their knees and praise at his altar.

THE LIME: THE CELLAR is the first novel Richard Laymon published. It descended upon the literary world in 1980 around the same time that Jack Ketchum's OFF SEASON did and both novels were unique in taking the "down and dirty" approach to horror. These novels were absolutely horrific. THE CELLAR, specifically, is a truly uncomfortable read because not only does it involve such monsters as "The Beast" but it deals with such real-life monsters as pedophile rapists, not something that curls up to your nerves in a good way.

Laymon's narrative eye does not shy away from the uncomfortable situations he depicts, either. There are many scenes in this novel that are not for the faint of heart so any aspiring readers whose ages end in "teen" should do well to most likely steer clear of it. As for the rest of us, I'd say that if you're not frightened by the "boogeyman" aspect of THE CELLAR, then the final page will stop your beating heart for sure.

THE TEQUILA: THE CELLAR is a graphic, fast-paced read that will raise the hairs on every bit of you (including your knuckles). I was able to devour THE CELLAR in one sitting under the thatched hut roof, even with a margarita in one hand and the occasional dip in the pool.

Laymon fans, you won't be disappointed. If Richard Laymon's a name you don't recognize, readers. Shame on you. There's a reason that the horror genre continues to survive (even with the complete and utter crap that one usually finds out there): Richard Laymon is that reason.

-Jack