Ash

Prolific British horror novelist Herbert unquestionably knows his way around a haunted house, but despite a careful setup, this novel dissipates its promise amid too many characters and plot threads. Returning after 2007’s Haunted, parapsychologist David Ash investigates malevolent spirit activity at Comraith Castle, a retreat/prison catering to well-connected social pariahs and run by a shadowy elite cabal. A particularly dangerous inmate kept in the castle dungeon psychically channels evil upwards into the other guests, among them an African dictator, incestuous twins, Nazi war criminals, and a corrupt financier. This intriguing premise leads to gripping moments, but never to a sustained sense of horror, losing its way with unnecessary sideshows that include Comraith’s leering head nurse, the vicious pack of wildcats stalking the grounds, a guilt-ridden former IRA member, and a disabled assassin plotting revenge. As the literally explosive conclusion winds down, readers may find themselves sighing more in relief than in satisfaction. Agent: Anthony Goff, David Higham Associates. (Dec.)