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A review by mikekaz
The Beast House by Richard Laymon
3.5
This book was first published in 1986 and there are aspects of the novel that hold up pretty nicely. Then there are parts that are incredibly simple or cringe worthy or just laughable. The series of events that bring our main characters to the town of Malcasa Point range from searching for love to searching for money. Once they arrive, it doesn't take long before the action starts and people are dying.
Things I liked: the mystery and fate of the beast; it was explained nicely and worked well, covering for events in this book and the prequel beast house book. Also setting up the sequels. The pacing and action was pure Laymon, engrossing and a quick fun read. Things that didn't hold up well: Tyler's love story; too sappy and too innocent when compared to today. The reactions to the bloody mannequins; it's not turn of the 20th century. The involvement of the marines during the entire police procedures; I know they needed to be involved in the action but no way would that fly today. Overall, not one of Laymon's better works but take it for what it is, something written back in the early 80s and you'll enjoy it.
Things I liked: the mystery and fate of the beast; it was explained nicely and worked well, covering for events in this book and the prequel beast house book. Also setting up the sequels. The pacing and action was pure Laymon, engrossing and a quick fun read. Things that didn't hold up well: Tyler's love story; too sappy and too innocent when compared to today. The reactions to the bloody mannequins; it's not turn of the 20th century. The involvement of the marines during the entire police procedures; I know they needed to be involved in the action but no way would that fly today. Overall, not one of Laymon's better works but take it for what it is, something written back in the early 80s and you'll enjoy it.