A horror book inspired by the "atmospheric" Malvern Hills could be the next American Psycho according to reviewers.

At Night, White Bracken is Gareth Wood's third novel and is partly inspired by the wild trails around the hills.

The book has already received high praise from reviewers who compare it to the Bret Easton Ellis novel and Stephen King's works.

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Since moving to Malvern in 2019, Wood has been inspired by the scenery.

He said: "I have long had a desire to produce a fantasy horror story driven by working-class, inner-city characters.

"So much fantasy horror contains grandiose, traditional settings but I felt that a story emanating from my own background would feel more tangible, and more real.

"I also wanted the novel to expose both the ugliness and danger of toxic masculinity."

The book, published by Stairwell Books this month, follows the story of working-class characters Danny, Cooper, and Hickey, who encounter a supernatural force.

Their journey unfolds from a dark cityscape to a haunted countryside.

Mr Wood added: "Although it's set in the north, these scenes were very much inspired by the woodlands, trails and quarries I've explored around Malvern.

"This area is incredibly atmospheric."

The official launch will take place on Thursday, November 14 at The Weavers of Malvern pub on Church Street.