Cemetery Dance Summary

Artistic interpretation of themes and motifs of the book Cemetery Dance by Douglas Preston
One-line Summary:

In “Cemetery Dance,” a thrilling horror novel by Douglas Preston and Lincoln Child, a journalist investigates a mysterious death at a remote mining town and uncovers a dark secret that threatens his own life.

The Sinister Mining Town:

Journalist William Smithback travels to the small mining town of Roaring Fork, Colorado, to investigate the strange death of a local man, Tony Pickett. As Smithback delves deeper into the case, he discovers that Roaring Fork holds a dark secret. The town is plagued by a series of unexplained deaths, and the residents live in constant fear. The atmosphere is eerie, with a sense of impending doom lurking around every corner. Smithback’s investigation takes him through abandoned mines, decrepit buildings, and encounters with suspicious locals who seem determined to keep the truth hidden. The authors skillfully build tension and suspense, keeping readers on the edge of their seats as they unravel the mysteries of Roaring Fork.

The Supernatural Element:

As Smithback digs deeper into the town’s history, he uncovers a connection to an ancient Native American legend. The legend tells of a vengeful spirit known as the Wendigo, a creature that possesses humans and drives them to commit horrifying acts. The authors expertly blend elements of horror, suspense, and Native American folklore, creating a chilling atmosphere that permeates the entire story. As Smithback uncovers more about the Wendigo and its connection to Roaring Fork, he realizes that he may be in grave danger himself. The supernatural element adds an extra layer of terror to the already gripping narrative, making “Cemetery Dance” a truly spine-tingling read.

A Race Against Time:

As Smithback gets closer to the truth, he becomes the target of those who want to keep the town’s secrets buried. He finds himself in a race against time to expose the truth and escape with his life. The authors skillfully build suspense, with each chapter ratcheting up the tension and leaving readers eager to know what happens next. Smithback’s determination to uncover the truth, despite the dangers he faces, makes him a compelling protagonist. Readers will find themselves rooting for him as he navigates the treacherous landscape of Roaring Fork.

Key Takeaways:
  • The power of ancient legends and folklore to shape the present
  • The lengths people will go to protect their secrets
  • The thin line between reality and the supernatural

“In Roaring Fork, the past was never really past. It was always present, lurking just beneath the surface, waiting to be awakened.” – Douglas Preston and Lincoln Child, Cemetery Dance

In “Cemetery Dance,” Preston and Child deliver a gripping and chilling horror novel that combines elements of mystery, supernatural terror, and Native American folklore. With its atmospheric setting, compelling characters, and relentless suspense, this book will keep readers hooked from beginning to end. The authors’ masterful storytelling and ability to create a sense of dread make “Cemetery Dance” a must-read for fans of the horror genre. So, grab a copy, turn off the lights, and prepare to be captivated by the dark secrets of Roaring Fork.

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