Lot Lizards

Ray Garton's "Lot Lizards" plunges readers into a nightmarish underworld lurking in the shadows of American truck stops. A trucker named Bill Ketter encounters more than he bargained for in his search for temporary solace, discovering that the "lot lizard" he seeks is, in fact, a vampire. Ensnared against his will, Bill is thrust into a world of undead predators controlled by the repulsive Carsey Brothers. As he's forced to follow them to a new hunting ground, Bill confronts his past when he encounters his ex-wife and children. He must then battle the vampires and their ancient leader to protect his teenaged son. "Lot Lizards" earns its place among Ray Garton's best works due to its masterful blend of contemporary horror, gruesome violence, and adult themes. Garton expertly crafts a claustrophobic atmosphere within the confined setting of the truck stop, maintaining a relentless pace that keeps the action taut and suspenseful. The novel showcases Garton's talent for creating memorable and terrifying villains, while exploring themes of desperation, redemption, and the lengths a parent will go to protect their child, even after becoming a monster himself. "Lot Lizards" is a prime example of Garton's ability to deliver visceral and thought-provoking horror that lingers long after the final page.