Are you a fan of horror and suspense novels? If so, then you’ve probably heard of John Saul, one of the most prolific and renowned authors in the genre. With over 30 books published, Saul has a fascinating career spanning more than four decades. In this article, we’ll explore some of his best works and why you should add them to your reading list.
Before delving into his works, let’s take a brief look at the man behind the books. Born in Pasadena, California, on February 25, 1942, John Saul was raised in Whittier and attended Whittier High School. He went on to study at Antioch College in Ohio before enrolling at the University of Montana.
Early Life and Influences
Saul’s early years were spent immersed in literature. He cites Edgar Allan Poe and H.P. Lovecraft as early inspirations that ignited his interest in the horror genre. Additionally, he was influenced by classic horror films like Dracula and Frankenstein, which he watched as a child.
As a young boy, Saul was fascinated by the macabre and the supernatural. He would often spend hours reading books about ghosts, witches, and other creatures of the night. His love for horror only grew stronger as he got older, and he began to experiment with writing his own stories.
One of Saul’s earliest works was a short story about a haunted house that he wrote when he was just 12 years old. The story was so well-received by his family and friends that it inspired him to continue writing.
A Look at His Writing Style
Saul’s writing style is characterized by vivid descriptions, cliffhangers, and an ability to create a sense of tension that keeps the reader on the edge of their seat. He has a knack for creating hauntingly realistic characters, whether good or evil. One of the hallmarks of his work is the interplay between the supernatural and the mundane, which creates a perfect balance between reality and fantasy.
Saul’s writing is often described as cinematic, with scenes that play out like a movie in the reader’s mind. He has a talent for creating vivid, atmospheric settings that transport the reader into the world of the story.
In addition to his horror novels, Saul has also written several young adult book and even a few romance novels under a pseudonym. His versatility as a writer is a testament to his skill and dedication to his craft.
Awards and Accolades
Over the course of his career, Saul has earned numerous awards and accolades, including a Bram Stoker Award for lifetime achievement in 2003. He has been compared to Stephen King and Dean Koontz, but his unique voice and perspective have distinguished him from his contemporaries.
Saul’s books have been translated into more than 20 languages and have sold millions of copies worldwide. His fans appreciate his ability to scare them while also making them think about deeper themes like the nature of evil and the power of the human spirit.
Despite his success, Saul remains humble and dedicated to his craft. He continues to write and inspire a new generation of horror writers and readers.
Top 5 John Saul Books to Start With
If you’re a fan of horror and suspense, then you’re probably already familiar with John Saul. With over 30 novels to his name, Saul is a master of the genre, known for his ability to create chilling, thought-provoking stories that stick with you long after you’ve finished reading. Now that we’ve established a bit of background on the author let’s explore five of his best works that you should start with.
Suffer the Children
This classic novel tells the story of a small town plagued by a mysterious illness that only affects children. With no cure in sight, the parents must make a harrowing choice to save their offspring. But as they soon discover, the cure may be worse than the disease. The novel explores themes of sacrifice, morality, and the lengths parents will go to protect their children. Dark, chilling, and thought-provoking, it’s a must-read for fans of horror and suspense.
Set in rural Maine, the novel follows a young Catholic schoolteacher who discovers that a secret cult has taken root in the community. As she attempts to learn more about the cult’s practices, she is drawn into a web of terrifying conspiracy and violence. The novel is an excellent example of Saul’s ability to blend religious themes with the horror genre. It’s a tense, atmospheric read that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
This book tells the tale of a family who moves to a small town in Colorado, only to find that a strange force is at work. Mysterious disappearances, bizarre weather patterns, and unexplained phenomena all add up to a deeply unsettling reading experience. Fans of supernatural horror will find much to enjoy in this suspenseful and eerie novel. The book is also notable for its vivid descriptions of the Colorado landscape, which adds to the overall sense of unease.
In this novel, a man returns to his hometown after years of living abroad, only to find that the community is hiding a dark secret. As he delves deeper into the town’s history, he uncovers a web of lies, violence, and corruption. The novel is a masterful blend of psychological horror and suspense, and readers will be on the edge of their seats from the first page to the last. It’s also a haunting exploration of the power of memory and the ways in which the past can come back to haunt us.
A young child is plagued by threatening, unknown voices that no one else can hear. As she struggles to make sense of the terrifying events around her, an investigative journalist begins to unravel a string of unsolved child murders in the town. The novel is a taut, well-paced page-turner that will keep you guessing until the very end. It’s also a haunting exploration of the ways in which trauma can shape our lives, and the lengths we’ll go to protect the ones we love.
So there you have it, five of John Saul’s best works to get you started. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer to the genre, these books are sure to keep you up at night.
Exploring John Saul’s Horror and Suspense Novels
John Saul is a master of horror and suspense, having written over 30 novels that have captivated readers with their rich characters, thrilling plot twists, and haunting imagery. His works have been translated into 25 languages and have sold millions of copies worldwide. Here are five more standout novels that you should add to your reading list.
The Blackstone Chronicles
The Blackstone Chronicles is a series of six novellas that takes place in a fictitious asylum. Each novella is connected by an overarching narrative that explores themes like guilt, fear, and darkness. The series is often compared to the works of classic horror writers like Poe and Lovecraft, but with a fresh and modern take on their themes.
The first novella, An Eye for an Eye, introduces us to Oliver Metcalf, a man who has just inherited the Blackstone Asylum. As he explores the abandoned building, he discovers a series of journals written by former patients. Each journal tells a different story of the horrors that took place within the walls of the asylum. From there, the series takes us on a journey through the dark and twisted history of Blackstone.
The Presence
The Presence is a spine-chilling novel that tells the story of a young family who moves to a remote island to get away from their stressful lives. However, they soon discover that the island is home to an ancient evil that threatens to destroy them all. The novel is rich with symbolism and is a suspenseful, atmospheric read that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
The island itself is a character in its own right, with its dark forests, rocky cliffs, and unpredictable weather. The family’s isolation on the island only adds to the sense of dread and unease that permeates the novel. As the family’s situation becomes more and more dire, they must confront the evil that lurks in the shadows and fight for their survival.
The Right Hand of Evil
The Right Hand of Evil is set in a small town in New England and tells the story of a troubled young boy who is haunted by the malevolent spirit of his grandfather. As the boy’s behavior becomes increasingly erratic, it becomes clear that the evil that took hold of his grandfather has now latched onto him. This dark and unsettling tale is sure to satisfy fans of supernatural horror.
The novel explores themes of family, legacy, and the dark secrets that can be passed down from generation to generation. The town itself is also a character, with its decaying buildings, abandoned factories, and eerie forests. As the boy’s condition worsens, the town becomes increasingly hostile towards him, leading to a tense and terrifying climax.
In the Dark of the Night
In the Dark of the Night is a novel about a young woman who discovers that a strange and powerful force is at work in her small town. She must uncover the truth behind the mysterious occurrences before it’s too late. The novel is a masterclass in pacing, gradually building tension until it reaches a satisfying, terrifying climax.
The town is a character in its own right, with its creaky old houses, overgrown gardens, and dark, twisting alleys. The protagonist’s investigation takes her deep into the town’s history, uncovering long-buried secrets and forgotten tragedies. As she gets closer to the truth, she realizes that the force she’s up against is more powerful than she ever could have imagined.
House of Reckoning
House of Reckoning is the story of a teenage girl who is sent to a special school for troubled youth. However, the school is not what it seems, and the students soon find themselves trapped in a web of horror and danger. This is a twisty, suspenseful read that will keep you guessing until the very end.
The school itself is a character, with its imposing architecture, labyrinthine corridors, and ominous atmosphere. The protagonist must navigate the school’s dark secrets and hidden agendas in order to survive. As she uncovers the truth about the school, she realizes that the danger she’s in is far greater than she ever could have imagined.
Overall, John Saul’s novels are a must-read for fans of horror and suspense. His vivid characters, intricate plots, and haunting imagery will stay with you long after you’ve finished reading.
Conclusion
John Saul is one of the most talented horror writers working today, and his works are a must-read for fans of the genre. From his early beginnings to his modern-day classics, Saul’s novels are ripe with suspense, horror, and vivid characters.
We’ve explored some of the best works by this master of horror, but there are plenty more to enjoy. So, whether you’re a seasoned fan or just discovering his works, don’t hesitate to dive into the twisted and terrifying world of John Saul.
FAQs
What has John Saul written?
John Saul is best known for his work in the horror and suspense genres. His best titles include The Presence, The Manhattan Hunt Club, The Devil’s Labyrinth, and House of Reckoning.
What awards has John Saul received?
His work has been included in the New York Times bestseller list and he has won numerous smaller awards for his work. However, in June this year, he is set to receive the Bram Stoker award for his work in horror.
What is John Saul doing now?
John Saul now lives between Seattle, the San Juan Islands, and Hawaii with his partner. He has been with his partner for 43 years who has contributed to several of Saul’s novels.
Eddison Monroe, born 1990 in Portland, Oregon, is an accomplished and celebrated female writer and independent author. The youngest of three siblings, Eddison's passion for storytelling began during her childhood as she entertained her family with vivid tales and fantastical characters. Her nurturing environment and the encouragement of her parents, both educators, played a crucial role in shaping her literary aspirations.
Eddison's writing often explores themes of self-discovery, relationships, and the complexities of human emotions. Her works are characterized by their lyrical prose, intricate world-building, and strong, multidimensional female characters.
A strong advocate for independent publishing, Eddison frequently conducts workshops and seminars to guide budding writers in navigating the world of self-publishing. She also serves as a mentor for aspiring authors, providing them with the knowledge and tools to pursue their dreams.
