New Delhi

Author Satyajit Sarna's new novel, "Redtooth", blends Himalayan folklore, horror and suspense.

Written in vivid prose that sweeps readers into the mountains, the chilling folk horror story, published by Simon & Schuster India, is scheduled to hit the stands on August 7.

"When the sun goes down in the mountains, everything feels like it might be possible. You step out of your tent in the wilderness at night and immediately experience an ancient sense of the vast and unknown world. These were my nightmares, now they are yours," said the author in a statement.

Set in Sikkim's Himalayas, the story follows a diverse group of novice trekkers heading to Goecha La in early winter, each carrying personal hopes and hidden burdens.

Guided by Manish, a trek leader haunted by his own past, they journey into the shadow of Khangchendzonga, where the line between the physical and spirit worlds begins to blur.

"As the air thins, so does their grip on reality. Secrets come to light and the tensions between them thicken. When the weather turns for the worse, they seek refuge in a mountain hut. Then, they meet a stranger," reads the description of the book.

For celebrated author and naturalist Stephen Alter, the "absolutely terrifying" "Redtooth" will shatter the illusions of all those who think of the mountains as a "serene and bucolic landscape".

"While the Himalaya are full of stories about evil spirits and ghosts, as Satyajit Sarna reveals, the most dangerous demons lie within ourselves.

"Supplemental oxygen is recommended while reading this book," said Alter, who has authored over 20 books of fiction and non-fiction on the Himalayas, jungles, and wild heritage of India.

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Sarna's previously authored books include "The Angel’s Share" and "The Profane".