Psycho House

With the novel Psycho House author Robert Bloch created a trilogy that closed with a typically witty examination of the obsession America has with its serial killer 'heroes'. Norman Bates has been quite dead for years, the insane killer from the previous novel is safely tucked away in an asylum, and the infamous Bates house and motel is set to become a wax museum that recreates the gruesome details of the crimes committed there. Too bad a teenaged trespasser has just been stabbed to death on the property. With all the usual suspects accounted for who can be killing now, and why? Geared more for fans of the novels than the films, this is recommended to old fashioned Bloch fans. Those looking for thrills with a harsher edge should look elsewhere.

There was no beating Psycho. Psycho II came close with the "is Norman dead or not" clause. Psycho House says, "Yes, Norman's dead, but try telling Norman that." Even after the death of Robert Bloch, Norman Bates still lives on. Psycho House shows us that. It shows us that even if the body of a person is no more, his legend lives on forever. An Excellent novel with a few loose strings that now, since it's creator has died, only our imaginations are left to fix.

I bought this little gem about five years ago, I've read it 15 times and it still gives me goose bumps. Bloch weaves a mystery filled tale with stunning ease. With red herrings abound, Bloch grips you from page one and never lets go. A terrific book. Buy it, you won't be sorry. It's all the more relevant following Bloch's death.