Paperbacks from Hell

Author Grady Hendrix
Narrator Timothy Andrés Pabon
Publisher Blackstone Publishing
Run Time 5 hours and 39 minutes
Format Audio
Genre Horror and supernatural fiction, Humour collections and anthologies, Literary studies: c 1900 to c 2000, Literary studies: fiction, novelists and prose writers.

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What to expect

Take a tour through the horror paperback novels of two iconic decades … if you dare. Hear shocking plot summaries that invoke devil worship, satanic children, and haunted real estate! Horror author and vintage paperback book collector Grady Hendrix offers killer commentary and witty insight on these trashy thrillers that tried so hard to be the next Exorcist or Rosemary’s Baby.

Complete with story summaries and artist and author profiles, this unforgettable volume dishes on familiar authors like V. C. Andrews and R. L. Stine, plus many more who’ve faded into obscurity. Also included are recommendations for which of these forgotten treasures are well worth your reading time and which should stay buried.

Critics Review

“[A] pure, demented delight.”

New York Times Book Review

“A nostalgic treat.”

Playboy

“Paperbacks from Hell is as funny as it is engaging.”

Washington Post

“The book is a true appreciation of the genre.”

Los Angeles Times

“Horror fiction is alive and well, and Paperbacks from Hell is a grand, affectionate, and informative celebration of the genre.”

New York Journal of Books

“It’s a gorgeous, lurid deep-dive into horror’s heyday and a must-read for any self-respecting horror fan.”

Tor.com

“Hendrix offers thoughtful and compelling discussions of these novels and articulates their enduring appeal. Biographies of authors (some still famous and some lost to the decades) are also provided. While serving as a fine resource for readers—especially those searching for the books of their youth or wanting to pick up ones they missed—this guide is also a joy owing to Hendrix’s infectious enthusiasm.”

Library Journal (starred review)

“Like some malevolent force in one of his beloved novels, Hendrix’s geeky enthusiasm is infectious.”

Publishers Weekly

“Grady Hendrix has written a hugely entertaining, lightning-paced, and knowledgeable history. I love it!”

Mick Garris, creator of Masters of Horror

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