Beth

Listening to this book is definitely an investment of time. However, unlike others, I was captivated by the story. It did end a little abruptly but I am not put off by a less than tidy ending. It ends with a new beginning implied. I hope Cronin continues in a new book with the rest of the story. I can see the next title as "The War." If you think of it in terms as a continuing story, the book ends at the only place it could.

Yes... I will admit that in the very beginning, it was challenging to adjust to a new narrator. I'm sure a lot of people like me had Harry Dresden firmly entrenched in our minds as Spike but with dark hair and taller. The image just worked. Spike was always getting himself in hot water just like Harry. However, I did adjust to the reader and was able to relax and enjoy the story. As usual, it is a very well written tale about our resident Chicago wizard. Although I was sad at first, I liked the way Jim Butcher developed the character of Molly. Karen was a very minor part of this book. She definitely had an important role but I look forward to further development of her character in the future. As always the character of Butters did not fail to bring a smile and a laugh. Maggie and Mouse ended up just where I wanted them to be. It will be interesting to see what character traits she will inherit from her mother. Well done Jim Butcher! Now get cracking on the next book!

As usual, King is an extraordinary writer and storyteller. I would have to say he is one of my favorite authors. I get so wrapped up in his books I lose all track of time. I read "Needful Things" straight through without stopping - even called in sick so I could finish it. However, the reoccurring theme in three of the stories left me feeling a little... uncomfortable. If I had known 75% of the stories would be centered around (don't want to be a spoiler so you know what I mean) I probably would not have read them. Believe me, it would take something very wrong to keep me from reading a book by Stephen King. It left me wondering what was on his mind when he wrote the stories. By the time I got to "Good Marriage," I was feeling a little sick. The statement King makes at the end is like he is justifying writing about this subject matter. This time Mr King, I'm not buying. In the future, I will be more cautious before buying his books.

Only haflway through. Good book so far. Feels like a book written for teenagers.

I have listened to this book once and have started over at the beginning. For many years I have suffered from chronic depression. After many doctors, medications, group support and counseling, the message I have gotten is to keep taking my medicine....that depression cannot be cured but we can teach you how to cope with it. I have really never been made to feel like I could be healed from my illness. Suddenly, I feel like I have awoken from a coma. After listening to this book I have a flowering hope that depression is not something I have to cope with for the rest of my life. The message Dr Dyer shares in his speech is spiritual, uplifting and enlightening.

I loved this story. The narrator was an excellent choice for the audio book. The smokey gravely voice fit for an old rock star from humble beginnings. I could clearly visualize all the characters from his voice. I was hooked into the story early on. Many times I looked to see how much story time was left. I thought it must be coming to a close because the author did such a great job building the suspense. Hill portrayed surreal scenes in such a way that made me not want to put my feet on the floor until I checked under the bed! The ending of the book was a surprise. I did not expect the story would have such tender scenes at the end. I really dislike movies/stories that make me cry... but I admit I liked how this story turned out.
I will definitely be going back for other books from this author.