For my last Horror Book Review for October, I am reviewing a book that I am actually a little bit sheepish to admit that I enjoyed, The Traveling Vampire Show by Richard Laymon.

I am sheepish because it is the kind of book that almost anyone would, or probably should, find offensive. It is gory, graphic, and filled with over-the top sexism. But having said that, it did win the 2001 Bram Stoker Horror Award.

Plot Summary:

Three horny teenage friends, Dwight, Rusty, and Slim, embark on a thrilling adventure. Drawn by mysterious flyers advertising an exotic vampire show, they venture into the woods to catch a glimpse of the rumored “world’s only living captive vampire.” However, their plans take a detour when a surprise encounter with a menacing dog sends them scattering.

While Dwight’s sister-in-law, Lee, buys tickets to the show for the group, the teens find themselves separated and navigating their own individual challenges. As they reunite and finally attend the vampire performance, they uncover a sinister plot lurking beneath the surface of the thrilling spectacle.

Beyond the supernatural elements, the book delves into the complexities of teenage life, exploring themes of friendship, sexuality, and self-discovery.

On the continuum of Gothic to Horror, Laymon’s books live on the far end of the spectrum. They are filled with gore, violence, and sex. The redeeming feature is that Laymon is a very good writer. An excellent writer at times. That is why I end up reading him.

Here is an Amazon link to the book: