As a teen in the 1980’s, the first two “Hellraiser” films were among my favorites. And yet it took me decades to get around to the source novel.

“The Hellbound Heart” does not disappoint. Despite going into it knowing the plot inside and out, it had me on the edge of my seat the whole time – not because of any major differences between the book and film, but simply because of how well written it is, and how effective the narration is.

It’s just such a creepy story. You want to turn away, and yet you don’t. You’re drawn in. And at the end, you want more. It’s almost as if we the readers are Frank, and the book is Lemarchand’s Box…only we don’t end up bloody and skinless, which is a definite plus.

I also recommend seeking out the full cast British audio drama adaptation from the folks at Bafflegab. It follows the book much closer than the film does.