Synopses & Reviews
When Alan Hammerstun inherits a quaint ranch house in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, he and his wife Heather seize the opportunity to leave New York and the haunting aftermath of two miscarriages. Eager to start over in the rural North Carolina town, they hope this new beginning will be the antidote to Heathers severe depression. For a time everything seems perfect. Too perfect, in fact. The neighbors are all young, handsome, healthy, and friendly. While surveying his new property, Alan finds a dirt path through the forest designated by stone markers carved with strange symbols, which culminates in a grassy clearing. One night Alan dreams the path ends at the foot of a lake and dives in; when he awakes gritty with lake grime and improved health and strength, he wonders if it could cure Heathers depression and infertility as well. When the townspeople warn Alan of the lakes powers, he must decide if the communitys secret is a nightmare or a miracle.
Review
“A thrilling edge-of-your-seat ride that should not be missed. Don't let the title fool you; it is less about a mountain and more about life in general. If you love thrillers that keep you guessing, this is a must read.” —Suspense magazine on The Ascent
Review
“Malfi's lyrical prose and sensitive approach only heighten his tale's emotional impact, and the final turn of events is both surprising and expertly set up.” —Publishers Weekly on Floating Staircase
Review
"Malfi deftly maintains the tension and engrossing atmosphere of horror by stepping up the pace and frequency of bizarre events . . . as Alan spins out of control." —Publishers Weekly
About the Author
Ronald Malfi is the author of The Ascent, The Fall of Never, The Nature of Monsters, Shamrock Alley, Via Dolorosa, and Floating Staircase, which was nominated for the 2011 Bram Stoker Award for Best Novel and won the 2012 IPPY National Gold Medal for Horror. He lives in Arnold, Maryland.