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. ( )

It was hard for me to get into this book, the book was very slow starting but I know that it's because there was so much back story and world explaining to do, I'm hoping that her future books won't have to cover all of that again and will just get right into the story. Once it got going it had a great story line, but it worries me that the rest of the books could have the same "find the girl" theme which would get old. ( )

I just started reading Laymon this past year. I have only read 3 books, but this is by far my favorite of what I have read. The story was compelling. The characters were interesting. There were plenty of bad guys to hate, and several good guys to root for. I liked the mythology behind the Beast House. I wish I had read the Cellar first, but I wasn't able to find a copy locally. The story was plenty creepy and also exciting. The beast was unique and the book was not like others I have read. Definitely recommend this one.

the only thing that really bugged me was the discovery that the beast had a mouth in his penis. WTF? ( )

Deliciously creepy! I love all of Laymon's books and this is no exception. If you're not a fan of violent horror then this isn't for you but if you do......well, then what are you waiting for? Get reading! ( )

Being that I’m a really big fan of Richard Laymon, I wanted to like this book. Unfortunately, it did not deliver. In the story a group of people come across a tourist attraction in Malcase Point where an old building has was figures commemorating the victims of the Beast, a victim living in the cellar. The visitors don’t necessarily believe in the Beast, but in the process they are targeted as victims. Without going into too much detail that would spoil things, the plot line is fairly preposterous. It’s hard to take things seriously because no aspect of the plot is remotely believable. The concept is bad, and the execution is even worse. In addition, the characters are neither realistic or likeable. I have not read any other books in this series, so perhaps I am missing out on some background information. Generally speaking, Richard Laymon is a brilliant writer that I would highly recommend, but this novel is one to skip.

Carl Alves – author of Blood Street ( )