John

This isn't our favorite genre, but Stephen King himself, as well his fictional Duma Key are seasonal neighbors of ours, so we couldn't wait to spot references to local spots and personalities. Our ears were offended by potty mouths of all characters, and the "F" word often used repeatedly in the same sentence, even in affectionate exchanges between father and college age daughter. She's engaged to a divinity student. Give me a break!

Also, the protagonist's lengthy descriptions of his pain, symptoms, treatment, and medications following a grievous accident could have been greatly condensed. Yes, his injuries are key. But too much belly-aching puts off the trademark King creepiness and horror way too long. Perhaps an abridged version would remedy this problem.

I guess true fans will love this one. But I think the movie will at least be more scenic, because this place really is paradise, even with Stepen King's house on the secluded north end of one of our islands.

This book will disappoint those seeking historical fiction, an atmospheric New York yarn, and/or an opera connection. It's a interminable melodrama that goes on and on like the Energizer bunny.