Review: Richard Matheson would like it
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 08 22, 2013
I liked this because it was not just a rehashing of the original story but brought something new to the table. With that said it was still true to the original in tone.This novella is based on Hell House by Richard Matheson. It is a prequel which gives an early view of Belasco House and the power which was gathered within it's walls.Emeric Belasco was a depraved man who built his house as playground for those who were willing to participate in all manner of perversion and depravity. When everyone died within its walls his body was not among them but the evil lived on. In 1931 an investigation as launched that resulted in the death of all involved. In 1940 another attempt was made to investigate Hell House, this is their story. Dr's Rand and Graham are there to prove that ghosts do not exist, they have brought three others as well. There is Grace Lauter, a mental medium who wishes to prove that her ex-fiance did not commit murder in Hell House in 1931. Benjamin Fischer, a 15 year old physical medium who wishes to shed his moniker as 'Ghost Boy' but has not been allowed to truly grow up. And finally there is Professor Fenley a friend of Ben's mother and a dedicated spiritualist. What they find in Belasco House is stronger and more terrifying than anything they could have imagined.An enjoyable and quick read for fans of Richard Matheson. This story can also be found in 'He is Legend' edited by Christopher Conlon.