Dive into the heart-pounding chaos of Iain Rob Wright’s Hell on Earth series, where demonic portals rip open the fabric of reality, unleashing an apocalypse that’s as terrifying as it is gripping. This horror saga blends visceral thrills with deeply human stories, following diverse characters—like a Coast Guard captain, a photojournalist, and a washed-up pop star—as they fight to survive a world overrun by demons. If you love apocalyptic tales with a demonic twist, this series will keep you up all night!
With its global scope and relentless pace, Hell on Earth stands out in the horror genre, drawing comparisons to Stephen King’s The Stand and Max Brooks’ World War Z. Wright’s knack for crafting relatable characters and unpredictable twists makes this series a must-read for fans of horror and post-apocalyptic fiction.
How Hell on Earth Began
Iain Rob Wright, a prolific British horror author, launched Hell on Earth with The Gates in 2015, inspired by his love for epic apocalyptic narratives and classic horror. After years of writing claustrophobic thrillers like ASBO, Wright aimed for a grander scale, weaving a global catastrophe sparked by mysterious black stones that open gateways to Hell. His goal? To create a series that’s both a blood-soaked rollercoaster and a poignant exploration of human resilience.
Self-publishing gave Wright the freedom to experiment, and his dedication paid off—Hell on Earth became a bestseller, praised for its fresh take on the apocalypse. Wright’s personal journey, from a struggling phone salesman to a horror chart mainstay, mirrors the series’ theme of defying overwhelming odds.
The Heart of Hell on Earth
The series kicks off with The Gates, where black stones appear worldwide, unleashing demons that slaughter indiscriminately. Coast Guard captain Guy Granger sails across a chaotic Atlantic to find his kids, while journalist Mina Magar documents horrors on London’s Oxford Street, and fading pop star Rick Bastion fights for survival. Legion, the second book, shifts perspectives to new characters, deepening the lore of the demonic invasion. Extinction ramps up the stakes as survivors band together, and Rebirth, the sixth and final book, delivers a climactic battle between humanity and the ultimate evil, Crimolok.
Wright’s series thrives on themes of survival, sacrifice, and hope amidst despair. Unlike zombie-driven apocalypses, Hell on Earth pits humans against demons and fallen angels, blending cosmic horror with gritty, ground-level perspectives. The global setting—spanning the U.S., England, and beyond—creates a sprawling yet intimate narrative, with characters like Vamps, a modern-day hero, stealing readers’ hearts. Wright’s fast-paced style and vivid imagery make every page a gut-punch, earning praise for its emotional depth and relentless action.
Why Hell on Earth Resonates
Hell on Earth has carved a niche in horror for its bold departure from zombie tropes, offering a demonic apocalypse that’s both epic and personal. Fans rave about its addictive quality, with reviews calling it “the horror equivalent of Game of Thrones” for its twists and diverse cast. The series’ exploration of human defiance against insurmountable evil resonates deeply, especially in times of uncertainty, making it a timeless tale of courage.
Wright’s ability to end the series on a high note with Rebirth has cemented its legacy, with readers comparing it to A.R. Wise’s Deadlocked for its satisfying conclusion. For horror fans, Hell on Earth is a thrilling, emotional journey that lingers long after the final page.
- Publication Years: 2015–2020
- Number of Books: 6 (plus a novella, Tar)
- Genres: Horror, Apocalyptic, Science Fiction
Grab The Gates and plunge into Hell on Earth’s chilling world of demons and defiance—you won’t be able to put it down!