For those living underground, or maybe in a mountain range of Antarctica, H.P. Lovecraft has been one of the most influential horror writers. Joe R. Lansdale is one of the writers who have drawn inspiration from Lovecraft’s science-fictional horror style and creatures. In the Mad Mountains is a collection of eight spine-tingling tales of esoteric mythos. Lansdale’s writing style is nothing like Lovecraft’s, other than using the unknown to send chills down your spine. Lansdale uses more wit in his writings while channeling other greats of literature. Lansdale’s writings are also easier to read than those of Lovecraft.

Lansdale pulls much of his inspiration from the darker sides of Americana for his macabre tales, from a midnight visit to the “crossroads” to mysterious and evil islands in the middle of the river. Some of Lansdale’s beloved characters from other writings show up in this collection. One does not have to be a fan of Lovecraft to enjoy this book, but it doesn’t hurt. But fans of Lansdale’s other fiction and anyone who believes in the otherworldly being of dark and dread will find terror In the Mad Mountains.