Some things, according to Cody McCall, are worth risking a spanking. For example, sneaking out with friends after dark to check out a traveling show that's happening just outside of town. Strange things, the signs promise. Miracles. Grotesques. Exotic attractions and mysterious magic. Not that they would be allowed to see this performance, because the parents, the preacher and the school teacher do not approve of it. But how often do you get such a chance? Quiet and tranquil, Silver River, a once-prosperous town experiencing a boom that's slowly fading, doesn't have much to offer. Of course it's worth risking a spanking. Is it worth risking life and limb, and maybe something else? Is it worth the risk of being torn to pieces by ravenous, inhuman beasts? Was it worth crossing paths with these strange, silent sectarians from the high mountain valley? Is it worth the fire, bloodshed, horror and death? Because something far worse than your average traveling show has come to town, and one thing is certain: those who survive, if any, will never forget The Night the Silver River Turned Red