Black House

"Black House" is a horror novel by Stephen King and Peter Straub, first published in 2001. The story takes place in French Landing, a small town in Wisconsin, and follows the investigation of a serial killer who preys on children. The lead investigator, Jack Sawyer, is a retired LAPD detective who has moved to French Landing to start a new life. Sawyer has a psychic ability to see through the eyes of others, which he uses to help solve crimes.

As Sawyer investigates the murders, he discovers that the killer is not human but a supernatural entity known as "The Fisherman." The Fisherman feeds on the life force of children and has been active in French Landing for decades. Sawyer also learns that there is a parallel world called the Territories, which is connected to our world by a mysterious black house. The Fisherman is using the black house as a gateway to travel between the two worlds and commit his atrocities.

Sawyer enlists the help of a group of locals, including a retired navy captain and a psychic woman, to stop The Fisherman. They venture into the Territories, where they encounter various monsters and obstacles. They eventually reach the black house and confront The Fisherman in a climactic battle.

The novel explores themes of good vs. evil, the power of imagination, and the importance of facing one's fears. It also touches on the idea of parallel universes and the concept of the afterlife. The writing style is typical of King and Straub, with vivid descriptions and a focus on character development.

In conclusion, "Black House" is a gripping horror novel that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. With its blend of supernatural elements, suspenseful plot, and engaging characters, it is a must-read for fans of Stephen King and Peter Straub. The book has received positive reviews and has been praised for its imaginative storyline and well-crafted prose.