The Horror Expert

A novel written in the early 1960s. The story revolves around Helen Lathrup, a complex woman who navigates a world filled with psychological intrigue, obsession, and terror, pulling those around her into a dark spiral of violence and fear. Her interests in horror literature and films suggest that her own life may mirror the unsettling narratives that she consumes. At the start of the novel, readers are introduced to Helen Lathrup, who is portrayed as a striking yet unsettling figure, deeply intrigued by violent and disturbing aspects of life. Her impatience and frustration are palpable as she navigates through a rain-washed New York City morning, leading her to her editorial office, where she is unexpectedly confronted with a life-threatening situation. The tension escalates dramatically as an intruder with a gun enters her office, culminating in a shocking act of violence. This early sequence sets the tone for a gripping psychological thriller that explores themes of obsession, morality, and the human psyche's darker inclinations.