The ghosts of Sleath

by James Herbert
The ghosts of Sleath cover
Good Books rating 3.38
Crime, Mystery, Thriller/Suspense
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Paperback • £9.99
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Technical
  • ID: 10874
  • Added: 2026-02-06
  • Updated: 2026-02-22
  • ISBN: 9780007375332
  • Publisher: HarperCollins UK
  • Published: 2010-06-24
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 4

When investigator David Ash is sent to the idyllic village of Sleath in the Chiltern Hills, he expects to find a simple case of mass hysteria. Instead, he uncovers a community gripped by fear, terrorized by ghosts from the village's ancient history. As Ash digs deeper, he realizes that the hauntings are not just figments of imagination but something far more sinister./n/nThe novel blends historical intrigue with supernatural suspense, as Ash races against time to unravel the mysteries of Sleath's past before the ghosts claim more victims. The picturesque setting contrasts sharply with the chilling events, creating a gripping atmosphere that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.

Reviews
DLS Reviews · 2026-02-18
fantastic 4.50

The book is a thoroughly engrossing tale of intense paranormal horror that sets a fast and brutish pace from the start.

This reviewer found 'The Ghosts of Sleath' to be a thoroughly engrossing tale of intense paranormal horror. The story sets a fast and brutish pace from the very beginning, drawing the reader in immediately. The reviewer praises the book for its ability to maintain a high level of tension and suspense throughout, making it a gripping read. The paranormal elements are well-executed, adding to the overall intensity of the story.

Quick quotes

    Herbert's 'The Ghosts Of Sleath' is a thoroughly engrossing tale of intense paranormal horror

    Sets down a fast and brutish pace from the very start

    A gripping read

The Storygraph · 2026-02-06
disappointing 2.00

The ending is unsatisfactory, rushed, and unoriginal, lacking the depth expected from a seasoned horror author.

The reviewer found the ending of the book to be quite unsatisfactory, rushed, and unoriginal. They express disappointment that it didn't meet the standards they expected from a consolidated horror author. The reviewer feels that the conclusion was hastily put together, which detracted from the overall reading experience. Despite this, they acknowledge that the book has its moments, but the ending leaves much to be desired.

Quick quotes

    I found the ending to be quite unsatisfactory, rushed and unoriginal

    As if written not by a consolidated horror author, but rather someone who'd just started

    It's a bit of a letdown

Always Reading · 2017-10-15
great 4.00

The book is a dark, supernatural read with complex characters and ghosts. It's not for the faint-hearted.

The reviewer suggests that if you're not easily triggered and enjoy dark, supernatural reads with complex characters and a few ghosts, you will love this book. They highlight the depth of the characters and the intense atmosphere created by Herbert. The reviewer also notes that the book is not for the faint-hearted, as it delves into some disturbing themes. Overall, they give it a high rating, indicating a strong recommendation for fans of the genre.

Quick quotes

    If you aren't easily triggered and like a dark, supernatural read with complex characters and a ghost or two you will love this book

    Herbert's talent for graphic descriptions is evident

    This book is not for the faint-hearted

Lynn's Books · 2013-03-22
good 3.00

The book is a mix of ghost and horror story, but it lacks uniqueness. The pacing is fast and engaging.

The reviewer admits to being glad they read this book, as it combines elements of ghost and horror stories. They note that while the pacing is fast and engaging, the story itself isn't particularly unique. The reviewer appreciates the blend of genres but feels that the plot could have been more original. Overall, it's a solid read for fans of the horror genre, but it doesn't stand out as particularly groundbreaking.

Quick quotes

    I must admit that I'm glad I read this.

    It's not all particularly unique and I guess it's a combination of ghost and horror story mixed in.

    It's a fast paced read.

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