I finished reading Darker Than You Think one night last week on the bus home from work. Gollancz reprinted it in 2003 as number 38 in their “Fantasy Masterworks” series. I'm not entirely sure if it truly qualifies as a masterwork or not, but it's definitely one of the best books I've read recently.

I haven't delved deeply into the realm of werewolf fiction, but I'm fairly certain this isn't a typical example of that sub-genre within horror or dark fantasy. It also doesn't neatly fit into the urban fantasy genre. While it's true that in the world of the novel, most people don't believe in werewolves, which is a common trait in urban fantasy, this novel doesn't really present werewolves as strictly supernatural.

Just like the vampires in Poppy Z. Brite’s Lost Souls, the werewolves in Darker than You Think are depicted as a separate species of intelligent life living among us regular humans.

At least that's one perspective presented in the novel. Another is that the supposed lycanthropy is actually one man's descent into paranoia and depression.

The main character, Will Barbee, isn't sure which to believe, and Williamson does an outstanding job of keeping the reader equally uncertain. Given the amount of sf/horror/dark fantasy on my reading list, I was inclined to believe a supernatural explanation and more than willing to accept an alternate species, but I was never quite sure where the novel was headed.

Overall, I thought Darker Than You Think was excellent. It's well worth reading, even 60+ years after its original book publication (70+ years after the publication of the magazine version in Unknown Fantasy Fiction, December 1940).

For some reason, I haven't read much (if any) Williamson before this. I find that somewhat surprising since his work has been around for a long time (his first story was published in 1928 and his last novel in 2005). He wrote in genres that I tend to read extensively, namely Science Fiction and Fantasy, and he was highly respected in both genres. In 1976, he was the second author named a Grand Master of Science Fiction by the SFWA, and in 1994, he received a World Fantasy Award for Lifetime Achievement.

I hope Darker Than You Think isn't atypical of his work as I'm looking forward to reading more of his books.

Read as part of the Retro Hugo Voters' Packet - although it was disqualified as a nominee:

The finalist “Darker Than You Think” by Jack Williamson was mistakenly categorized as a novelette. In fact, the story is a novella, but it didn't receive enough nominations to be a finalist as a novella.

Personally, I'd firmly state that this is definitely an actual novel. The pacing and structure of the story give it that distinct feel. It's really not that short, either.

Wait... ah-ha!

“Darker Than You Think by Jack Williamson, originally a novelette, was expanded into novel length and published by Fantasy Press in 1948. The short version was published in Unknown in 1940.”

I'm pretty certain that I actually read the 1948 novel-length version. (Because it just kept not-ending. It didn't really drag on, but I initially thought I was reading a short piece, and I clearly wasn't...)

Either way, I firmly believe this would've made a great 1970's or 1960's horror film. It would fit comfortably on the shelf next to classics like The Wicker Man and Rosemary's Baby.

Journalist Will Barbee is excitedly ready to meet the returning members of an expedition to far-off lands. He's confident that he'll obtain the scoop on whatever their discoveries were, as it just so happens that he was college friends with the researchers. However, while waiting for them to meet the press, he finds himself next to a young woman, April Bell. She introduces herself as a budding journalist and is eager for him to give her professional tips. Barbee experiences an intense mix of attraction and a mysterious repulsion regarding the young woman. The press conference unfortunately ends up being prevented due to a shocking tragedy - and Barbee's feelings toward April begin to include a suspicion that she might somehow be guilty of a terrible crime. That doesn't stop him from asking her out to dinner, though.

As events unfold and progress, we gradually learn that whatever ancient secrets or artifacts were discovered on the expedition may pose a threat to a modern cult of witches or other supernatural beings. Against his will, Barbee is irresistibly drawn into these diabolical doings...

Not bad; I'm glad I read it.

I wouldn't have voted for it to win a Hugo, however, mainly because it leans more towards the horror genre rather than pure speculative fiction.

Considered a classic of the genre, the book delves deep into the captivating idea of shapeshifters. It explores the various aspects and implications of this concept, taking the reader on a journey through a world where individuals have the ability to transform their physical forms. The author masterfully weaves together a narrative that not only showcases the power and mystery of shapeshifters but also examines the psychological and emotional toll that such a gift or curse can have on those who possess it. Through vivid descriptions and engaging characters, the book brings the idea of shapeshifters to life, making it a must-read for fans of the genre. Whether you are intrigued by the idea of transformation or simply enjoy a well-written story, this book is sure to satisfy.

Early on in the story, the writing seemed a bit awkward and clumsy. There was an overabundance of phrases that were repeated quite often. However, fortunately, as the narrative progressed, it managed to smooth out a little bit.

This was indeed an interesting tale. It was about a secret race of shape-shifters who were supposedly aiming for world domination. But, in reality, there was very little evidence or sign of that. I truly did enjoy the rather novel approach that Williamson took when it came to the creatures' shape-changing abilities. It was quite unique and captivating.

Nevertheless, I felt that the story was somewhat let down by the actions of the protagonist. The protagonist's actions seemed quite unlikely and he was a somewhat deplorable character. Despite this, overall, it was still an entertaining slice of hokum that managed to hold my attention and keep me engaged throughout.

This book, which delves into a race of people (or perhaps creatures?) endowed with astral traveling abilities, presents a truly fantastic plot. The writing is characterized by a frenetic pace and a pulpy feel that propels the storytelling forward with great energy. I was completely enamored by it. However, for me at least, there was a weak spot, and that was the protagonist. Will Barbee is supposed to be a sharp-witted, small-town reporter with a tenacious drive to get to the heart of any story. In reality, he is about as sharp as a blunt egg.

To be honest, this so-called super reporter finds himself in a situation where he engages in numerous unspeakable acts during his bouts of astral traveling. Each time he wakes up, he procrastinates and drinks himself into a stupor. Even when it becomes blatantly obvious that people are dying in horrible ways, he still stubbornly refuses to accept the truth of his situation.

Even after Mr. Slackjaw finally comes to terms with the truth about who the Queen Evil-Bitch is, he still acts to protect her and her despicable actions.

Honestly, I absolutely adored the plot, the pace, and the pulp feel of this novel. But it was severely let down by the ineptitude of the protagonist. Nevertheless, it remains an intriguing read that keeps the reader engaged from start to finish.

While some of the writing and references are a bit dated now,

it's also a truly fantastic picture of the era. This work should have been filmed in the 40s in black and white,呈现出经典的黑色电影风格。

Williamson's writing does get a little cliched in certain places (at least to someone reading it in 2012).

However, the archeological and anthropological details, along with the psychiatric theories, add credibility to the story.

Despite the presence of fantastical and mythological elements, these aspects make the narrative more engaging and believable.

It's as if Williamson has managed to blend the old with the new, creating a unique and captivating tale that still holds some interest even after all these years.

Good God Almighty! This is truly a great book!

From the moment I picked it up, I was completely captivated. The story unfolds in the most enchanting way, drawing me in with its vivid characters and thrilling plot.

The author's writing style is both engaging and descriptive, making it easy for me to imagine every scene and feel the emotions of the characters.

Each chapter leaves me on the edge of my seat, eager to turn the page and find out what happens next.

I can't recommend this book highly enough. It's a must-read for anyone who loves a good story!

Seeing this, I knew right away that April Bell was a huge Rock 'n' Roll fan. It was quite obvious that she had been ceremoniously singing along to some of her favorite songs. The lyrics "Ride the tiger, You can see his stripes but you know he's clean. Oh don't you see what I mean" by Dio from "Holy Diver" added a touch of mystery. I held out on purchasing "Darker Than You Think" for years until I could find the one with the captivating cover pictured above. A naked red-haired witch riding a huge golden sabre-toothed tiger against a backdrop of brilliantly hued blues and greens. And this is considered a werewolf novel, though it would be better defined as a book of lycanthropy and witchcraft.

I first became aware of this book after reading the precursor novella, "Wolves of Darkness", in a fantasy anthology titled "Echoes Of Valor III", edited by Karl Edward Wagner. It contained very entertaining short stories by many of the best authors who contributed to the pulp era magazines of the '30's. "Wolves of Darkness" by Jack Williamson first appeared in the 1932 January edition of "Strange Tales" magazine, a competitor to the better known "Weird Tales" magazine of sci-fi and fantasy stories.

The success and popularity of "Wolves of Darkness" inspired Jack Williamson to revisit his theme with a different cast of characters and new story in "Darker Than You Think", which first appeared in the December 1940 edition of "Unknown" magazine, later expanded and published in novel form in 1948. The story follows newspaper journalist Will Barbee as he meets the beautiful and alluring April Bell while awaiting the landing of his former Archaeology Professor. When the Professor collapses dead on the spot, Will and April are brought together to find and determine what the mysterious ancient box contains and its ties to someone or something called "The Child Of Night".

"Darker Than You Think" reads more like a noir detective novel from the 30's than anything else, though it is, and should be, considered a fantasy book. With true horror in its pages that leave impressions hard to shake, and an interwoven great occult theory that really stuck with me, it has continued to collect great critical acclaim and fanfare over the years. It has won many accolades from renowned writers in different fields of writing and has been praised as one of the greatest werewolf novels in print. For those not familiar with pulp or serial writing, be aware of a few repeat phrases or overused words. However, the multiple award-winning cover artist, David G. Klein, also did some fine memorable black & white interior illustrations that enhance the reading pleasure greatly. Highly recommended!!!!!

The promise that was set forth at the beginning of this story wasn't fully realized. However, it still managed to be a fairly good read.

My sense of disappointment might be a bit more intense compared to others. The main reason for this is that I had been eagerly anticipating a traditional werewolf story. Instead, what I got was more along the lines of an urban shapeshifter story.

Full review: http://susimetsa.blogspot.fi/2015/12/...

It seems that the author had a different vision in mind when creating this tale. While it had its moments of interest, it didn't quite meet the expectations I had based on the initial setup.

Perhaps if I had gone into it with a different mindset, I might have enjoyed it more. Nevertheless, it's still a story that has its own unique charm and could appeal to those who are fans of the urban shapeshifter genre.

Overall, it's a decent effort, but it just didn't quite hit the mark for me.

An interesting story unfolds where the "were" creatures are not solely limited to wolves.

Indeed, they are portrayed as dark and in a state of conflict with humans.

We witness a weak man who finds himself caught between the allure of a beautiful new woman he has just met and the long-standing friendships of those on the side of good.

The question at stake? Oh - it's nothing less than the fate of all humanity!

Since Halloween is just a week away, this story served as a bit of seasonal reading for me, and it was enjoyable enough.

It had elements that kept me engaged, from the mysterious nature of the "were" beings to the internal struggle of the protagonist.

The idea that the actions of this one man could potentially impact the entire human race added an extra layer of excitement and tension to the narrative.

Overall, it was a fun and engaging read that was perfect for the spooky season.

A Truly Enjoyable Weird Fiction of the 1940s

In the 1940s, there emerged a captivating story that delved into a secret prehistory of the human race. It presented a fascinating concept where a race of witches, werewolves, and vampires existed. Their bloodlines became intermixed within modern humanity, creating a mysterious and potentially dangerous situation. The story hinted at the possibility that this ancient race might be rising again, adding an element of excitement and anticipation. This piece was truly great, with its unique blend of supernatural elements and historical intrigue. It was a worthy addition to Gary Gygax's Appendix N, a collection of influential works that inspired generations of gamers and fantasy enthusiasts. The vivid descriptions and engaging plot made it a must-read for anyone interested in the weird and wonderful world of fiction.

I picked this up years ago at a used bookstore, likely because of its exuberant back-cover blurb: "perhaps the finest novel about werewolves ever published!" This year's "read 12 grandmasters in 2012" challenge has finally brought it to the top of the TBR pile. And while I'm not sure if it's the best, it's definitely a refreshingly unique take on lycanthropy.
Will Barbee is an alcoholic newspaper writer reporting on the return of an expedition from the far east. They arrive with a mysteriously heavy locked box and a discovery that will change the world, if only one of them can stay alive long enough to tell it. A more complete summary would be overly spoilery, and a large part of the fun (and horror) of this story is the unexpected angles in the plot turns.
Like many 50+ year old novels, this one comes off a little dated. People generally don't dress up for dinner anymore, and the idea of keeping your secretary-mistress in a swank apartment-hotel seems like the seedy side of a black and white Donna Reed era. The prose is often a little too restrained and mannered. In a way, it's about spiraling into madness, and I think the horror would have been more immediately visceral if it was written a bit messier. That being said, the plot itself and the science (science! in a werewolf novel!) were utterly fresh and accessible.

Huge bonus points for the bleak ending that avoids the reluctant hero's triumphant cliche. Cool!!