horror guideHorror Guide to Massachusetts
David Goudsward and Scott Goudsward
Post Mortem Press
ISBN-13: 978-0692238813
June 2014; $15.30 pb

Reviewed by Elaine Pascale

Geography riddle: in which state can you find killer sharks, vampires, black widows (the women, not the arachnids), the original Ouija board, and, of course, witches? It’s not really a riddle since the answer is found both in the title and within the pages of Horror Guide to Massachusetts.  The Guide combines fact, fiction and fable and is mind boggling in its thoroughness.  Alphabetized by location, the Guide explains each and every connection between cities/sites and horror history.  Massachusetts’ rich literary backstory is highlighted, as well as connections to television shows and movies.  Some offerings are more fantastic than horrific (for example, the movie “Splash”), yet that illustrates the depth the guide plumbs as well as the gems it uncovers.  The Guide is simultaneously painstakingly detailed and widely comprehensive. It is also chock full of love for the state and its proclivity for ghouls, gangsters, and ancient graveyards.

The Goudsward brothers know a thing or two about horror and are familiar names themselves within the Commonwealth. Their goal was to create a resource that inspires a researcher to look up an old story or film. While not a beach read, Horror Guide to Massachusetts is a useful tool for those interested in The Bay State, and stories thereof.  It would also serve well as an impetus for a highly competitive trivia game (best played amongst NEHW members, I suspect).  This book would make a wonderful gift for the horror connoisseur, and an even better weapon to use against that know-it-all New Englander in your life.

About Elaine Pascale

Elaine Pascale had been writing her entire life. She lives on Cape Cod with her husband, son and daughter. Her writing has been published in several magazines and anthologies. She is the author of Blood Lights, and If Nothing Else, Eve, We’ve Enjoyed the Fruit. Elaine enjoys a robust full moon, chocolate, and collecting cats.

Pin It on Pinterest

Share This