Here is the opinion of Dark Heart, one of my best friends.: "Ah, here is finally a book written by Steve Jackson! Since The Tragic Galaxy, he hadn't written anything... Perhaps because he was saving himself for this book, which, along with The Creature of Chaos, is one of the best books in the series. At least in terms of the background and the overall atmosphere it exudes. This book is special; it's the only one in the series set "in the present day" (well, rather in the 80s, the time when the book was written) and in our world. After a prologue that could serve as the synopsis of a worthy horror film, we discover the House of Hell. Its interior appearance doesn't bode well, but once inside, we are quite surprised by the decor and the calm that reigns there. Moreover, the Count of Brume who welcomes us is very friendly. The beginning is rather quiet, but we can easily sense that this place hides some danger. In terms of rules, since we embody an ordinary civilian, we have no weapons, and our skill is reduced by 3 points (but don’t worry, you’ll find several weapons during your journey). However, the fights are not numerous; if you find the right path-which is really not easy (even impossible on the first read)-you'll only face half a dozen enemies at most, and they're not very strong. As you’ve guessed, the main difficulty doesn't lie in the battles, but in the complexity of the path you need to take, as many of them will lead to your demise or scare you to death... because yes, you can die of fear! This "skill" is an excellent idea from the author and fits very well with the book's aspect. If you reach your maximum fear points, previously determined, your heart gives out and you die! On the one hand, it’s great, but on the other, it prevents you from exploring all the rooms in the House, which is unfortunate because they contain some great moments, as interesting as they are surprising. Even though I don’t want to mention them (it would spoil the surprise), there are quite a few memorable moments. Moreover, the rooms are superbly described, and the writing style is really very good-you feel like you’re there. However, the illustrations are really not nice, but I must say that, oddly enough, they fit perfectly with this kind of story! Note that this book is one of the hardest in the series. Finding the right path requires the reader's ingenuity, but even the most skilled will need several attempts to find where the only weapon capable of killing the Master is hidden. Because not only will you have to find the password but also the location of the weapon. And to know the exact location, you’ll also need to speak to the right person and have discovered their name during your search. In short, as you’ve understood, the mission seems quite difficult, and it is! The last paragraph is good, and it reminds you of what you've been searching for since the beginning of your adventure! This little passage made me smile because, after all the difficulties the hero has gone through during his journey, he still isn’t ready to return home! In summary, an almost perfect book in terms of atmosphere-both gripping and captivating, worthy of a real horror movie-whose complex adventure will cause you a lot of trouble (the book is far from linear; several paths will be available to you, and several will lead to your downfall). The battles are rather rare, but that's not what makes the book strong-it's the well-conducted narrative. The prologue is beautiful, as is the atmosphere, which is very well captured. It’s a pity that the illustrations don’t match the quality of the book, preventing it from getting the highest score. In short, a book to read several times and to keep in the place of honor among Choose Your Own Adventure books."
There are numerous references to horror films in this book: first of all, the house is identical to the Bates Residence with floor and interior balcony from the film "Psychosis" by Alfred Hitchcok (1960), which was itself even inspired by the painting “House by the Railroad” by Edward Hopper (1925) and the Addams Family mansion (1964). The progression in the house is akin to "Resident Evil" before its time, with an oppressive atmosphere reminiscent of Clive Baker's novels. In the cellar, the prisoners in the dungeon are reminiscent of "The Village of the Damned" (1960), the animated scenes are reminiscent of an episode of "Wild Wild West" in which there is a question of immortality . Lord Kelnor's purple dress is inspired by that of Count Galba in "The Ghost of Nero", a supernatural episode of the American series "Au Coeur du Temps" ("The Time Tunnel", 1966). The Kriss, the Malay dagger, has a cousin of a knife of Indian origin: the Kouthar ("see Tintin and the Cigars of the Pharaoh" 1934). The bats that fly away, the Vampire who flees from a clove of garlic are all borrowings from the "Dracula" films (six feature films between 1931 and 1979), the poltergeist and the furniture that moves magically found in "Poltergeist" (1982) and even the ferocious Giant Danes resemble a horrific version of the friendly Scoobidoo (1969). Finally, the final fire of the haunted mansion is a deliberate reminiscence of the film "The Fall of the House of Usher" (1960), based on Edgar Poe's fantasy short story published in 1839.
Love all these references! I must admit, though, I think Kelnor's outfit is more influenced by Hammer films like The Devil Rides Out. And the dogs in the cellar remind me more of those that attack Gregory Peck and David Warner in The Omen!
Yep, this one is definitely the GOAT. I must have died in this house umpteen times. Usually in the kitchen i recall. Eventually my brother discovered the Kris knife and won the wretched thing so i could at least get some vicarious sense of achievement!
I wonder just how many people completed this book half by accident! The most obscure bit, which I forgot to mention, is knowing just when to turn back ten paragraphs and discover the secret passage under the stairs. Took me umpteen goes to work that one out.
400: the English text says: "From a safe distance, you watch the fire destroy the house. A fitting end, you think, for a house of hell." However, the French version ads: "But where the hell are you going to find a garage open at this time of night?"
Loved this book as a kid. I remember copying the title font (dripping blood) for a school project and was told off by my teacher... (I did the same with Talisman of Death (lightning bolts) and got similar results, my primary school teachers was not a FF fan obvs). Your vids are great Michael, making me seriously consider re-purchasing a couple of the books. 👍
Thanks, Simon! If you're going to re-buy just one, this would be my choice. Or maybe Appointment With Fear, also by Steve. Pity about your teachers! No imagination, some people.
Dear Michael, if "House of Hell" is a Fighting Fantasy Book that I discovered late when I was 26 in October 2003, it is certainly the one that has had the greatest impact on me since 1986 when I read books including you are the hero! First of all, as a Frenchman, I am very happy to realize that a British reader like you asked the same question as me: in which country does the adventure take place? Are we in Britain, as the Drumer family dating back to the 16th century suggests? Or in the United States, as indicated by the Louisiana style of the wooden house (an abundant and inexpensive material in North America). In the intro it talks about Mingleford garage but according to my internet research Mingleford is a power station located north of Brisbane.... in Australia! In the Original Version, Brandy is offered to the hunchback Sheikou; in the French version, it is Cognac, an alcoholic drink from the French town of the same name.
I love the idea that, Mingleford aside, it could be France! Or Germany or Austria... I like that Jackson keeps that kind of detail vague. In my head, it's happening in a remote part of England, but who knows?
@@michaelbartlettfilm Pardon mais "Le Manoir de l'Enfer" ne peut pas se dérouler en France. Nous n'avons aucune commune du nom de Mingleford et les prénoms Franklin, Kelnor et Margaret sont typiquement britanniques! La maison entièrement construite en bois rappelle les Etats-Unis (l'époque de Tom Sawyer).
Classic Steve Jackson, not sure if you have read them but if you love gamebook horror, then I recommend the Cluster of Echoes series by Victoria Hancox
I continue to enjoy your Fighting Fantasy retrospective even though I haven't had any experience with gamebooks. I love the artwork. And your description of "House of Hell" is a lot of fun (as always). As you were describing the story, flashes from various short stories and old television shows flickered through my mind, starting with an episode of "Midsomer Murders" (in which Joyce Barnaby was driving on a stormy night and was certain that she hit someone, but when she stopped and looked, no one was there), then "The Hospice" by Robert Aickman (in which Lucas Maybury got lost and ended up staying the night in a strange inn that did not have a telephone and which was filled with odd people and strange goings-on), and so on (scenes from episodes of "Night Gallery," Boris Karloff's "Thriller," and the like). Very entertaining!
I'm stoked that you know The Hospice, one of Aickman's best stories. I've just bought the first season of Night Gallery on Blu-Ray. I've never watched it before, so I'm hoping there's something half as good as House of Hell on it!
@@michaelbartlettfilm "Night Gallery" has some great episodes, and some that are less so. I think you will enjoy it overall. Regarding "The Hospice," I like it quite a bit, but I like "The Same Dog" better. I enjoyed your video in which you read "The Same Dog." After seeing it, I got an audiobook of Aickman's short stories and have really enjoyed it. So you actually introduced me to his writings. 👍
I agree. This is a masterpiece. I've even heard people suggest that the mansion could be in Europe e.g Germany or France because you are served brandy or coffee and duck, if I remember right. The use of subtext is masterful as you say; where are the cars etc? Implies that the house got its occupants there by other means such as summoning or kidnapping. What a knockout ending as well: the butler did it! I regret that I don't have a copy; I read it when I was 11 by borrowing it from a library.
The bit with the meal kills me. Only Steve Jackson would make your choice of menu a crucial step in the gameplay! And I can't help following my stomach with the selection, rather than my judgement...
Another book I never had as a kid but picked up around 10 years ago from a charity shop. I've got the modern cover (the one with Franklins turning into the demon) but I much prefer the original cover art........ Anyway, a briliant book and yet another fab review from yourself...... Great stuff.
Have you read "House of Horrors", the amateur gamebook written by the Italian Gaetano Abbondanza in 2003? I strongly advise you to print it, as I did in 2004! It is a prequel to Steve Jackson's book, with a similar plot taking place in Northern Italy with Count Pravemi whose name is mentioned in a letter. The two works are complementary and we find several characters!
This one is quite expensive here in Hungary. A friend borrowed mine years ago, but she hasn't given it back yet. The book was probably a nod to the Hammer films and those 70s satanic horror flicks.
Just reading it through for this video, I got totally lost! I had to go online to remind me of the correct route. Testament to Jackson's sneaky, labyrinthine mind!
Here is the opinion of Dark Heart, one of my best friends.: "Ah, here is finally a book written by Steve Jackson! Since The Tragic Galaxy, he hadn't written anything... Perhaps because he was saving himself for this book, which, along with The Creature of Chaos, is one of the best books in the series. At least in terms of the background and the overall atmosphere it exudes. This book is special; it's the only one in the series set "in the present day" (well, rather in the 80s, the time when the book was written) and in our world. After a prologue that could serve as the synopsis of a worthy horror film, we discover the House of Hell. Its interior appearance doesn't bode well, but once inside, we are quite surprised by the decor and the calm that reigns there. Moreover, the Count of Brume who welcomes us is very friendly. The beginning is rather quiet, but we can easily sense that this place hides some danger. In terms of rules, since we embody an ordinary civilian, we have no weapons, and our skill is reduced by 3 points (but don’t worry, you’ll find several weapons during your journey). However, the fights are not numerous; if you find the right path-which is really not easy (even impossible on the first read)-you'll only face half a dozen enemies at most, and they're not very strong. As you’ve guessed, the main difficulty doesn't lie in the battles, but in the complexity of the path you need to take, as many of them will lead to your demise or scare you to death... because yes, you can die of fear! This "skill" is an excellent idea from the author and fits very well with the book's aspect. If you reach your maximum fear points, previously determined, your heart gives out and you die! On the one hand, it’s great, but on the other, it prevents you from exploring all the rooms in the House, which is unfortunate because they contain some great moments, as interesting as they are surprising. Even though I don’t want to mention them (it would spoil the surprise), there are quite a few memorable moments. Moreover, the rooms are superbly described, and the writing style is really very good-you feel like you’re there. However, the illustrations are really not nice, but I must say that, oddly enough, they fit perfectly with this kind of story! Note that this book is one of the hardest in the series. Finding the right path requires the reader's ingenuity, but even the most skilled will need several attempts to find where the only weapon capable of killing the Master is hidden. Because not only will you have to find the password but also the location of the weapon. And to know the exact location, you’ll also need to speak to the right person and have discovered their name during your search. In short, as you’ve understood, the mission seems quite difficult, and it is! The last paragraph is good, and it reminds you of what you've been searching for since the beginning of your adventure! This little passage made me smile because, after all the difficulties the hero has gone through during his journey, he still isn’t ready to return home!
In summary, an almost perfect book in terms of atmosphere-both gripping and captivating, worthy of a real horror movie-whose complex adventure will cause you a lot of trouble (the book is far from linear; several paths will be available to you, and several will lead to your downfall). The battles are rather rare, but that's not what makes the book strong-it's the well-conducted narrative. The prologue is beautiful, as is the atmosphere, which is very well captured. It’s a pity that the illustrations don’t match the quality of the book, preventing it from getting the highest score. In short, a book to read several times and to keep in the place of honor among Choose Your Own Adventure books."
Great review - thanks for posting!
@@michaelbartlettfilm The author lives in French Switzerland.
There are numerous references to horror films in this book: first of all, the house is identical to the Bates Residence with floor and interior balcony from the film "Psychosis" by Alfred Hitchcok (1960), which was itself even inspired by the painting “House by the Railroad” by Edward Hopper (1925) and the Addams Family mansion (1964). The progression in the house is akin to "Resident Evil" before its time, with an oppressive atmosphere reminiscent of Clive Baker's novels. In the cellar, the prisoners in the dungeon are reminiscent of "The Village of the Damned" (1960), the animated scenes are reminiscent of an episode of "Wild Wild West" in which there is a question of immortality . Lord Kelnor's purple dress is inspired by that of Count Galba in "The Ghost of Nero", a supernatural episode of the American series "Au Coeur du Temps" ("The Time Tunnel", 1966). The Kriss, the Malay dagger, has a cousin of a knife of Indian origin: the Kouthar ("see Tintin and the Cigars of the Pharaoh" 1934). The bats that fly away, the Vampire who flees from a clove of garlic are all borrowings from the "Dracula" films (six feature films between 1931 and 1979), the poltergeist and the furniture that moves magically found in "Poltergeist" (1982) and even the ferocious Giant Danes resemble a horrific version of the friendly Scoobidoo (1969). Finally, the final fire of the haunted mansion is a deliberate reminiscence of the film "The Fall of the House of Usher" (1960), based on Edgar Poe's fantasy short story published in 1839.
Love all these references! I must admit, though, I think Kelnor's outfit is more influenced by Hammer films like The Devil Rides Out. And the dogs in the cellar remind me more of those that attack Gregory Peck and David Warner in The Omen!
Psychosis is the little known prequel wherein Norman spends the entire movie on his psychiatrists couch
Yep, this one is definitely the GOAT. I must have died in this house umpteen times. Usually in the kitchen i recall.
Eventually my brother discovered the Kris knife and won the wretched thing so i could at least get some vicarious sense of achievement!
I wonder just how many people completed this book half by accident! The most obscure bit, which I forgot to mention, is knowing just when to turn back ten paragraphs and discover the secret passage under the stairs. Took me umpteen goes to work that one out.
400: the English text says: "From a safe distance, you watch the fire destroy the house. A fitting end, you think, for a house of hell." However, the French version ads: "But where the hell are you going to find a garage open at this time of night?"
Ha, ha, that's brilliant!
@@michaelbartlettfilm Then the title of the introduction "Background" is changed to "A terrible storm". The French like overtranslations.
Loved this book as a kid. I remember copying the title font (dripping blood) for a school project and was told off by my teacher... (I did the same with Talisman of Death (lightning bolts) and got similar results, my primary school teachers was not a FF fan obvs). Your vids are great Michael, making me seriously consider re-purchasing a couple of the books. 👍
Thanks, Simon! If you're going to re-buy just one, this would be my choice. Or maybe Appointment With Fear, also by Steve. Pity about your teachers! No imagination, some people.
An enjoyable video, thanks for posting. Brings back great memories. I loved this book back in the day. Bloody hard to complete.
Thanks, Nick!
Another lovely trip down memory lane, into a bizarre house, and through the mirror. Thanks Mike. 👍 I remember accumulating too many fear points.
Yeah, if not in the game, reading it in real life! Wonderful fun. Thanks, Steve!
Excellent review - keep em coming!
Dear Michael, if "House of Hell" is a Fighting Fantasy Book that I discovered late when I was 26 in October 2003, it is certainly the one that has had the greatest impact on me since 1986 when I read books including you are the hero! First of all, as a Frenchman, I am very happy to realize that a British reader like you asked the same question as me: in which country does the adventure take place? Are we in Britain, as the Drumer family dating back to the 16th century suggests? Or in the United States, as indicated by the Louisiana style of the wooden house (an abundant and inexpensive material in North America). In the intro it talks about Mingleford garage but according to my internet research Mingleford is a power station located north of Brisbane.... in Australia! In the Original Version, Brandy is offered to the hunchback Sheikou; in the French version, it is Cognac, an alcoholic drink from the French town of the same name.
I love the idea that, Mingleford aside, it could be France! Or Germany or Austria... I like that Jackson keeps that kind of detail vague. In my head, it's happening in a remote part of England, but who knows?
@@michaelbartlettfilm Pardon mais "Le Manoir de l'Enfer" ne peut pas se dérouler en France. Nous n'avons aucune commune du nom de Mingleford et les prénoms Franklin, Kelnor et Margaret sont typiquement britanniques! La maison entièrement construite en bois rappelle les Etats-Unis (l'époque de Tom Sawyer).
@@reality75 C'est vrai, mais quel dommage! Just think, tonight, you could be driving home, suddenly your engine dies...
Classic Steve Jackson, not sure if you have read them but if you love gamebook horror, then I recommend the Cluster of Echoes series by Victoria Hancox
I continue to enjoy your Fighting Fantasy retrospective even though I haven't had any experience with gamebooks. I love the artwork. And your description of "House of Hell" is a lot of fun (as always). As you were describing the story, flashes from various short stories and old television shows flickered through my mind, starting with an episode of "Midsomer Murders" (in which Joyce Barnaby was driving on a stormy night and was certain that she hit someone, but when she stopped and looked, no one was there), then "The Hospice" by Robert Aickman (in which Lucas Maybury got lost and ended up staying the night in a strange inn that did not have a telephone and which was filled with odd people and strange goings-on), and so on (scenes from episodes of "Night Gallery," Boris Karloff's "Thriller," and the like). Very entertaining!
I'm stoked that you know The Hospice, one of Aickman's best stories. I've just bought the first season of Night Gallery on Blu-Ray. I've never watched it before, so I'm hoping there's something half as good as House of Hell on it!
@@michaelbartlettfilm "Night Gallery" has some great episodes, and some that are less so. I think you will enjoy it overall. Regarding "The Hospice," I like it quite a bit, but I like "The Same Dog" better. I enjoyed your video in which you read "The Same Dog." After seeing it, I got an audiobook of Aickman's short stories and have really enjoyed it. So you actually introduced me to his writings. 👍
@@julieborel3043 The Same Dog is fantastic, isn't it? Quite cruel, but so memorable.
@@michaelbartlettfilm Yes! Do you plan to make another video this winter of you reading a spooky/macabre tale?
@@julieborel3043 Definitely! It's a tradition!
I agree. This is a masterpiece. I've even heard people suggest that the mansion could be in Europe e.g Germany or France because you are served brandy or coffee and duck, if I remember right. The use of subtext is masterful as you say; where are the cars etc? Implies that the house got its occupants there by other means such as summoning or kidnapping. What a knockout ending as well: the butler did it! I regret that I don't have a copy; I read it when I was 11 by borrowing it from a library.
The bit with the meal kills me. Only Steve Jackson would make your choice of menu a crucial step in the gameplay! And I can't help following my stomach with the selection, rather than my judgement...
Another book I never had as a kid but picked up around 10 years ago from a charity shop. I've got the modern cover (the one with Franklins turning into the demon) but I much prefer the original cover art........ Anyway, a briliant book and yet another fab review from yourself...... Great stuff.
Thanks, Milthy! The new cover is fantastic, but it's out of kilter mood-wise with the book itself. It also spoils the ending!
Have you read "House of Horrors", the amateur gamebook written by the Italian Gaetano Abbondanza in 2003? I strongly advise you to print it, as I did in 2004! It is a prequel to Steve Jackson's book, with a similar plot taking place in Northern Italy with Count Pravemi whose name is mentioned in a letter. The two works are complementary and we find several characters!
I haven't but I'll definitely seek it out now! Merci!
@@michaelbartlettfilm You shall enjoy it! According to me, it is one of the best amateur gamebooks!
@@michaelbartlettfilm Who is the woman inside your medallion? Your wife?
@@reality75 I wish!! It's Monica Vitti, the Italian actress, who made films with Antonioni in the 60s.
Great book (although i didnt like it initially), its very difficult and you have to follow a fairly rigid path if you want beat it.
It's brutal. Maybe the hardest of the lot. But worth it.
This one is quite expensive here in Hungary. A friend borrowed mine years ago, but she hasn't given it back yet. The book was probably a nod to the Hammer films and those 70s satanic horror flicks.
@@Nightbreed24 you need to get it back off your friend! It’s a classic!
Can you do the review of Talisman of Death asap? Your view is so different from any other reader.
Coming soon! Double review with Space Assassin.
@@michaelbartlettfilm Que la Mère de Toutes Choses vous bénisse!
Trying to map this game was extremely frustrating and turned me off….but the setting/story is so fantastic. Love/hate this book.
@@SignalHunter79 i gave up mapping it
Just reading it through for this video, I got totally lost! I had to go online to remind me of the correct route. Testament to Jackson's sneaky, labyrinthine mind!
Il existe une carte détaillée dans les sites français. Vous plairait-il que je vous la procure?
You should play this book with us live on youtube
I'd be too worried I'd mess it up!
@@michaelbartlettfilm No fear!