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 Customer Reviews
wow - compulsively readable and addictive, 01 Jul 2008
wow
this book is utterly brilliant - unbelievably well written - completely gripping and compulsively readable.
i will be honest that i didn't expect great things after the slightly disappointing Gunslinger, but this 2nd volume in King's Magnum Opus just takes the piss. it is a million miles better than number 1. and has made me a Dark Tower fan in seconds.
it is basically three doors and a story of drawing sidekicks out of them for the enigmatic hero Roland. These characters are amazing and colorful, the world's they come from and the scenes they get embroiled in are readable and gripping. King crafts characters better than most any other writer i know and this is no exception - the intros to every character are huge - and even minor characters get their entire life related to the reader.
its immensely satisfying - i found myself getting through about 150 pages of it in one sitting - it really was an up-all-nighter - the parallel world's and situations are just amazing to read.
King has done himself proud - and after this blinder of a novel i have high high hopes for this epic tale. if the rest of the series is even half as good as this one - it'll be an epic of unrivalled quality.
10/10 - its going straight in my top books - and hopefully if the series lives up it, has guaranteed a place for the whole Dark Tower tale :D
best in show, 05 Apr 2008
this is the best dark tower book - excellent pace, a gripping page turner.
it could almost be a standalone novel (almost) and has the most unique identity of all seven books.
The Drawing of the Three, 01 Apr 2008
It was inevitable that King wouldn't be able to keep up the dreamlike storytelling style that made "Gunslinger", the first in the Dark Tower series, so great. But of course he never intended to, he wanted to thoroughly open up the world that he had only just begun to describe in the first book.
The "Drawing of the Three" brings together the group of travellers that accompany Roland, the gunslinger, on his quest for the Dark Tower. From Roland's world we peer into others, including our own, and from them come to know a group of expertly realised characters in the form of Eddie, Odetta and Jake, all of which become so very real throughout the series that the books are not simply compulsive, but self-driven to the extent that you're worried they'll carry on without you if you ever put them down.
The opening is brilliant. When the story branches and we come to know the new characters, the "three", it gets even better. And, as King is so well at doing, the different threads come together in a manner that makes this second book so difficult to put down.
If you read the first book and wonder if you want to pick up the second, perhaps unsure of the route King is taking in this genre, or intimidated by the size of the sequels, don't hesitate. Pick up the second. If by the end you don't immediately want to pick up the third book, I'll eat my hat. If I owned one.
Roland of Gilead looks for companions for his quest ..., 28 Aug 2007
No quest should be made alone. Every hero gets companions brought to him by the fate and the quest of the Dark Tower is no exception. Roland of Gilead, the last gunslinger of the fast dying world needs to find three companions who were predestined for him - and if he fails, his quest will also fail. But the fate tips often the balance against the hero and Roland starts this challenge with a very serious handicap. No more details will be provided but this book is possibly the most upsetting (in the good sense of the world) in the whole series. The feeling of emergency and the run against the clock is described by Stephen King in a masterly way - as well as the suffering of the main hero, who really pays for every step forward with his blood, especially when trying to bring to his world the first of the companions, who is also possibly the most unlikely.... This book also has great humour moments, especially Roland's comments on our world. It is not frequent to find such a good and exciting read.
three doors and three companions?, 14 Jun 2007
this is king's secon visit to mid-world, the land of the last gunslinger roland deschain. it immediatly picks up where the first book left off, on the beach near the ruins.
this book centres on three doors that appear on this beach, through which another world and time awaits. as well as a prospective companion behind each door.
a great book that carries on the story at a great pace.
bring on the wastelands
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Mist, The
Usually dispatched within 1-2 business days
*Best price found from Amazon Marketplace seller
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*Amazon: £0.51
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Customer Reviews
wow - compulsively readable and addictive, 01 Jul 2008
wow
this book is utterly brilliant - unbelievably well written - completely gripping and compulsively readable.
i will be honest that i didn't expect great things after the slightly disappointing Gunslinger, but this 2nd volume in King's Magnum Opus just takes the piss. it is a million miles better than number 1. and has made me a Dark Tower fan in seconds.
it is basically three doors and a story of drawing sidekicks out of them for the enigmatic hero Roland. These characters are amazing and colorful, the world's they come from and the scenes they get embroiled in are readable and gripping. King crafts characters better than most any other writer i know and this is no exception - the intros to every character are huge - and even minor characters get their entire life related to the reader.
its immensely satisfying - i found myself getting through about 150 pages of it in one sitting - it really was an up-all-nighter - the parallel world's and situations are just amazing to read.
King has done himself proud - and after this blinder of a novel i have high high hopes for this epic tale. if the rest of the series is even half as good as this one - it'll be an epic of unrivalled quality.
10/10 - its going straight in my top books - and hopefully if the series lives up it, has guaranteed a place for the whole Dark Tower tale :D
best in show, 05 Apr 2008
this is the best dark tower book - excellent pace, a gripping page turner.
it could almost be a standalone novel (almost) and has the most unique identity of all seven books.
The Drawing of the Three, 01 Apr 2008
It was inevitable that King wouldn't be able to keep up the dreamlike storytelling style that made "Gunslinger", the first in the Dark Tower series, so great. But of course he never intended to, he wanted to thoroughly open up the world that he had only just begun to describe in the first book.
The "Drawing of the Three" brings together the group of travellers that accompany Roland, the gunslinger, on his quest for the Dark Tower. From Roland's world we peer into others, including our own, and from them come to know a group of expertly realised characters in the form of Eddie, Odetta and Jake, all of which become so very real throughout the series that the books are not simply compulsive, but self-driven to the extent that you're worried they'll carry on without you if you ever put them down.
The opening is brilliant. When the story branches and we come to know the new characters, the "three", it gets even better. And, as King is so well at doing, the different threads come together in a manner that makes this second book so difficult to put down.
If you read the first book and wonder if you want to pick up the second, perhaps unsure of the route King is taking in this genre, or intimidated by the size of the sequels, don't hesitate. Pick up the second. If by the end you don't immediately want to pick up the third book, I'll eat my hat. If I owned one.
Roland of Gilead looks for companions for his quest ..., 28 Aug 2007
No quest should be made alone. Every hero gets companions brought to him by the fate and the quest of the Dark Tower is no exception. Roland of Gilead, the last gunslinger of the fast dying world needs to find three companions who were predestined for him - and if he fails, his quest will also fail. But the fate tips often the balance against the hero and Roland starts this challenge with a very serious handicap. No more details will be provided but this book is possibly the most upsetting (in the good sense of the world) in the whole series. The feeling of emergency and the run against the clock is described by Stephen King in a masterly way - as well as the suffering of the main hero, who really pays for every step forward with his blood, especially when trying to bring to his world the first of the companions, who is also possibly the most unlikely.... This book also has great humour moments, especially Roland's comments on our world. It is not frequent to find such a good and exciting read.
three doors and three companions?, 14 Jun 2007
this is king's secon visit to mid-world, the land of the last gunslinger roland deschain. it immediatly picks up where the first book left off, on the beach near the ruins.
this book centres on three doors that appear on this beach, through which another world and time awaits. as well as a prospective companion behind each door.
a great book that carries on the story at a great pace.
bring on the wastelands
Very Readable Horror-Now a Movie., 05 Sep 2008
I read this on a long train ride and it certainly helped to pass the time. People under pressure in a base under seige is always a good bet for an absorbing drama. This 'novella' also shows how people react; bringing out the best and worst in them. Mrs Carmody is a particularly monstrous creation, rivalling anything outside the supermarket. Not sure about the ending though, but you will have to read this to make your own mind up. There is a motion picture of this book now, which I am looking forward to seeing (apparently with a different ending.) A recommended read.
The Mist, 27 Jun 2008
I really enjoyed the book with the people being traped in the Supermarket. I am going to order the movie at Christmas time. It's a bit like the movie Terror in the Mall only instead of water trapping them it is the Mist. The old woman in the book seemed crazy going on about death and saying it's death out there. If the book was excellent I can't wait to see the film when I get it.
I give this book 5 stars!
Good story - Buy Skeleton Crew., 08 Jun 2008
Just a short note to say this story is available in the book 'Skeleton Crew', which is much better value for money. Stephen King is a master of the horror novel, but a lot of his short story collections are highly underrated.
brilliant, 24 Apr 2008
one of my favourite books ever. dead short, but brilliant. if you can get it cheap, it's well worth a read... 5 stars
The Mist, 05 Nov 2007
'The Mist' is a novella written by Stephen King, first published in a collection called Dark Forces and then again in another collection called Skeleton Crew. Now re-released as a stand-alone novel to tie-in with the new movie due out at the end of the year.
The story mainly follows lead character David and his young son Billy as their town is overtaken my a mysterious fog after a serious storm. The man and his son are then trapped in a local supermarket when unearthly creatures begin taking over the small town and killing it's residents.
This is a great short story and one of the best that I've read from Mr King, focussing more on the characters rather than just full-on horror and gore. Once I started reading this I couldn't put it down. There's a couple of silly bits in it that could have been left out but overall it is a great read and one that I would recommend to any fan of King or the horror/sci-fi genre in general. There's also many likenesses to films, books and even games such as The Fog, Silent Hill, War of the Worlds and even some of Stephen King's own later novels. My only complaint is the cop-out ending which just leaves the reader guessing and with a story like this I really felt like I needed some closure. Still, a good, entertaining and suspense-filled thriller that makes me look forward to the movie.
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Customer Reviews
wow - compulsively readable and addictive, 01 Jul 2008
wow
this book is utterly brilliant - unbelievably well written - completely gripping and compulsively readable.
i will be honest that i didn't expect great things after the slightly disappointing Gunslinger, but this 2nd volume in King's Magnum Opus just takes the piss. it is a million miles better than number 1. and has made me a Dark Tower fan in seconds.
it is basically three doors and a story of drawing sidekicks out of them for the enigmatic hero Roland. These characters are amazing and colorful, the world's they come from and the scenes they get embroiled in are readable and gripping. King crafts characters better than most any other writer i know and this is no exception - the intros to every character are huge - and even minor characters get their entire life related to the reader.
its immensely satisfying - i found myself getting through about 150 pages of it in one sitting - it really was an up-all-nighter - the parallel world's and situations are just amazing to read.
King has done himself proud - and after this blinder of a novel i have high high hopes for this epic tale. if the rest of the series is even half as good as this one - it'll be an epic of unrivalled quality.
10/10 - its going straight in my top books - and hopefully if the series lives up it, has guaranteed a place for the whole Dark Tower tale :D
best in show, 05 Apr 2008
this is the best dark tower book - excellent pace, a gripping page turner.
it could almost be a standalone novel (almost) and has the most unique identity of all seven books.
The Drawing of the Three, 01 Apr 2008
It was inevitable that King wouldn't be able to keep up the dreamlike storytelling style that made "Gunslinger", the first in the Dark Tower series, so great. But of course he never intended to, he wanted to thoroughly open up the world that he had only just begun to describe in the first book.
The "Drawing of the Three" brings together the group of travellers that accompany Roland, the gunslinger, on his quest for the Dark Tower. From Roland's world we peer into others, including our own, and from them come to know a group of expertly realised characters in the form of Eddie, Odetta and Jake, all of which become so very real throughout the series that the books are not simply compulsive, but self-driven to the extent that you're worried they'll carry on without you if you ever put them down.
The opening is brilliant. When the story branches and we come to know the new characters, the "three", it gets even better. And, as King is so well at doing, the different threads come together in a manner that makes this second book so difficult to put down.
If you read the first book and wonder if you want to pick up the second, perhaps unsure of the route King is taking in this genre, or intimidated by the size of the sequels, don't hesitate. Pick up the second. If by the end you don't immediately want to pick up the third book, I'll eat my hat. If I owned one.
Roland of Gilead looks for companions for his quest ..., 28 Aug 2007
No quest should be made alone. Every hero gets companions brought to him by the fate and the quest of the Dark Tower is no exception. Roland of Gilead, the last gunslinger of the fast dying world needs to find three companions who were predestined for him - and if he fails, his quest will also fail. But the fate tips often the balance against the hero and Roland starts this challenge with a very serious handicap. No more details will be provided but this book is possibly the most upsetting (in the good sense of the world) in the whole series. The feeling of emergency and the run against the clock is described by Stephen King in a masterly way - as well as the suffering of the main hero, who really pays for every step forward with his blood, especially when trying to bring to his world the first of the companions, who is also possibly the most unlikely.... This book also has great humour moments, especially Roland's comments on our world. It is not frequent to find such a good and exciting read.
three doors and three companions?, 14 Jun 2007
this is king's secon visit to mid-world, the land of the last gunslinger roland deschain. it immediatly picks up where the first book left off, on the beach near the ruins.
this book centres on three doors that appear on this beach, through which another world and time awaits. as well as a prospective companion behind each door.
a great book that carries on the story at a great pace.
bring on the wastelands
Very Readable Horror-Now a Movie., 05 Sep 2008
I read this on a long train ride and it certainly helped to pass the time. People under pressure in a base under seige is always a good bet for an absorbing drama. This 'novella' also shows how people react; bringing out the best and worst in them. Mrs Carmody is a particularly monstrous creation, rivalling anything outside the supermarket. Not sure about the ending though, but you will have to read this to make your own mind up. There is a motion picture of this book now, which I am looking forward to seeing (apparently with a different ending.) A recommended read.
The Mist, 27 Jun 2008
I really enjoyed the book with the people being traped in the Supermarket. I am going to order the movie at Christmas time. It's a bit like the movie Terror in the Mall only instead of water trapping them it is the Mist. The old woman in the book seemed crazy going on about death and saying it's death out there. If the book was excellent I can't wait to see the film when I get it.
I give this book 5 stars!
Good story - Buy Skeleton Crew., 08 Jun 2008
Just a short note to say this story is available in the book 'Skeleton Crew', which is much better value for money. Stephen King is a master of the horror novel, but a lot of his short story collections are highly underrated.
brilliant, 24 Apr 2008
one of my favourite books ever. dead short, but brilliant. if you can get it cheap, it's well worth a read... 5 stars
The Mist, 05 Nov 2007
'The Mist' is a novella written by Stephen King, first published in a collection called Dark Forces and then again in another collection called Skeleton Crew. Now re-released as a stand-alone novel to tie-in with the new movie due out at the end of the year.
The story mainly follows lead character David and his young son Billy as their town is overtaken my a mysterious fog after a serious storm. The man and his son are then trapped in a local supermarket when unearthly creatures begin taking over the small town and killing it's residents.
This is a great short story and one of the best that I've read from Mr King, focussing more on the characters rather than just full-on horror and gore. Once I started reading this I couldn't put it down. There's a couple of silly bits in it that could have been left out but overall it is a great read and one that I would recommend to any fan of King or the horror/sci-fi genre in general. There's also many likenesses to films, books and even games such as The Fog, Silent Hill, War of the Worlds and even some of Stephen King's own later novels. My only complaint is the cop-out ending which just leaves the reader guessing and with a story like this I really felt like I needed some closure. Still, a good, entertaining and suspense-filled thriller that makes me look forward to the movie.
Wolves of the Calla, 01 Apr 2008
And we're back on track! After the massive flashback segment in "Wizard and Glass" the real story of the series begins to drive forward once more, picking up soon after the conclusion of book four.
This story is a little different from previous instalments. The journey towards the elusive Dark Tower slows as the team, King's own "fellowship", stop to help a town that anticipates a violent and devastating attack from the "wolves", a group of almost-men who may kill or abduct their children. There are many secrets in this book, all of which are revealed satisfactorily, and many of the mysteries surrounding Roland's world are also uncovered - although there are just as many new questions as there are answers.
The writing is, as ever, great; the dialogue particularly brings such clarity to this aspect of King's complex series that you don't feel you're reading fantasy, which, as a writer of the genre myself, can often get bogged down in the narrative. King lightens the novel where it needs light, and darkens the novel when the various truths are revealed. Speaking of light and revelations, we see the protagonist Roland in an entirely new light, adding yet another layer to the full rounded character and his companions. It's wonderful and heart-breaking to see our beloved characters in this way, who by now feel like family.
Do we want Roland to succeed? Always. Do we want him to succeed at the expense of his companions, who are also our friends? There are new aspects of the Dark Tower, its substance and purpose, that almost make us think "maybe they aren't all that important after all ..."
Don't miss it. It's a series back on track after a minor slowdown, and it is so intriguing that you'll still be thinking about it weeks later.
Suspense of plots yet to come, 17 Dec 2007
As fantasy worlds go, the parallel earth of the "Dark tower" is unique and refreshing.
The book contains some five minutes of wonderfully written action and some fascinating characters. You can glimpse the true genius of the author throughout the book. Sadly Steven King uses over 400 of 611 pages to build suspense of plots yet to come, in the next instalments of the series. Longwinded is a description that leaps to my mind.
Reading the book is like arduously digging for gold, you find minute nuggets on the way that suggests it's worth your time. When you finally strike gold it's a nice brilliant lump, but you are left with the notion that the grind was not worth the effort.
If you are in need of instant gratification this book is not for you.
OMG!, 26 Sep 2007
Loved it!!!!! I found it hard to believe how brilliantly this was pulled off! Im not a huge Tephen KIng fan but alfter reading this (iv only read this one in the Dard Tower series) i went out and got all the others.
But this one is the best in the series.
Its the most griping book i'v ever read, most good books i read i have to stop reading alfter about 150 pages coz i useally start getting disstracted but this book i read about 500 pages of it (in about three and a half hours) then i HAD to put it down coz i needed to go to have dinner but i started reading it again straught alfter.
This is THE best book in the world along side: BEC by Darren Shan, and Silence of the Lambs by Thomas Harris.
The Plot Thickens, 18 Jul 2007
The key theme of this book is very strong so it is easy to keep track of the direction in which you are going. There are some bad guys and they needed to be dealt with and at the end of the day they will be. The side issues though are what makes the book interesting, the further development of the 'you exist because I think your think' theme, the rapid development of Roland's and Jake's characters, the scene setting for the next book and the tying together of loose ends from previous books, all these go towards making TWOC an enjoyable read. However, there are failings, certain characters play pivotal roles but they are not developed beyond the bare minimum necessary to carry the story. In contrast there is a certain amount of wastage going over old ground; TDT books are not intended to be read on there own so repetition from previous books is pointless. Luckily he does not fall into the trap of repeating huge swathes of the previous novels (ala Jean Auel), but there is sufficient to be annoying. All in all, not as good as WaG, but still very good indeed.
magnificent 4?, 14 Jun 2007
this book is king back to his best, a fast paced story that reeks of the magnificent seven. basically the ka-tet are hired by a village that is being attacked by wolves, which look like Dr. Doom on horseback and throw harry potter sneetches.
a great book that has plenty of action and a few twists. for me the last great book in the series before king starts to play god, literally.
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Coraline
Usually dispatched within 1-2 business days
*Best price found from Amazon Marketplace seller
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*Amazon: £1.08
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Product Description
Despite being mostly known for his fantastical graphic novels and adult fiction, Neil Gaiman's first book for children is everything that you would expect from such a massive imagination as his. It's special and wonderful and very weird indeed. Described by some as the new Alice in Wonderland, Coraline is actually more bizarre than that, much more frightening and its modest length definitely adds to the book's undiluted potency. Shortly after moving into an old house with strange tenants above and below, Coraline discovers a big, carved, brown wooden door at the far corner of the drawing room. And it is locked. Curiosity runs riot in Coraline's mind and she unlocks the door to see what lies behind it. Disappointingly, it opens onto a brick wall. Days later, after exploring the rest of the house and garden, Coraline returns to the same mysterious door and opens it again. This time, however, there is a dark hallway in front of her. Stepping inside, the place beyond has an eerie familiarity about it. The carpet and wallpaper are the same as in her flat. The picture hanging on the wall is the same. Almost. Strangest of all, her mum and dad are there too. Only they have buttons for eyes and seem more possessive than normal. It's a twisted version of her world that is familiar, and yet sinister. And matters get even more surreal for Coraline when her "other" parents seem reluctant to let her leave. Her attempted escape from this nightmare alternative reality sees Coraline experience a chilling series of ever more bizarre encounters. Some are plainly odd, others disturbingly spooky and together they combine to form an immensely readable story. It's like all the best bits of the Goosebumps books condensed into 160 pages. A unique reading experience guaranteed. (Ages 10 and over)--John McLay
Customer Reviews
wow - compulsively readable and addictive, 01 Jul 2008
wow
this book is utterly brilliant - unbelievably well written - completely gripping and compulsively readable.
i will be honest that i didn't expect great things after the slightly disappointing Gunslinger, but this 2nd volume in King's Magnum Opus just takes the piss. it is a million miles better than number 1. and has made me a Dark Tower fan in seconds.
it is basically three doors and a story of drawing sidekicks out of them for the enigmatic hero Roland. These characters are amazing and colorful, the world's they come from and the scenes they get embroiled in are readable and gripping. King crafts characters better than most any other writer i know and this is no exception - the intros to every character are huge - and even minor characters get their entire life related to the reader.
its immensely satisfying - i found myself getting through about 150 pages of it in one sitting - it really was an up-all-nighter - the parallel world's and situations are just amazing to read.
King has done himself proud - and after this blinder of a novel i have high high hopes for this epic tale. if the rest of the series is even half as good as this one - it'll be an epic of unrivalled quality.
10/10 - its going straight in my top books - and hopefully if the series lives up it, has guaranteed a place for the whole Dark Tower tale :D
best in show, 05 Apr 2008
this is the best dark tower book - excellent pace, a gripping page turner.
it could almost be a standalone novel (almost) and has the most unique identity of all seven books.
The Drawing of the Three, 01 Apr 2008
It was inevitable that King wouldn't be able to keep up the dreamlike storytelling style that made "Gunslinger", the first in the Dark Tower series, so great. But of course he never intended to, he wanted to thoroughly open up the world that he had only just begun to describe in the first book.
The "Drawing of the Three" brings together the group of travellers that accompany Roland, the gunslinger, on his quest for the Dark Tower. From Roland's world we peer into others, including our own, and from them come to know a group of expertly realised characters in the form of Eddie, Odetta and Jake, all of which become so very real throughout the series that the books are not simply compulsive, but self-driven to the extent that you're worried they'll carry on without you if you ever put them down.
The opening is brilliant. When the story branches and we come to know the new characters, the "three", it gets even better. And, as King is so well at doing, the different threads come together in a manner that makes this second book so difficult to put down.
If you read the first book and wonder if you want to pick up the second, perhaps unsure of the route King is taking in this genre, or intimidated by the size of the sequels, don't hesitate. Pick up the second. If by the end you don't immediately want to pick up the third book, I'll eat my hat. If I owned one.
Roland of Gilead looks for companions for his quest ..., 28 Aug 2007
No quest should be made alone. Every hero gets companions brought to him by the fate and the quest of the Dark Tower is no exception. Roland of Gilead, the last gunslinger of the fast dying world needs to find three companions who were predestined for him - and if he fails, his quest will also fail. But the fate tips often the balance against the hero and Roland starts this challenge with a very serious handicap. No more details will be provided but this book is possibly the most upsetting (in the good sense of the world) in the whole series. The feeling of emergency and the run against the clock is described by Stephen King in a masterly way - as well as the suffering of the main hero, who really pays for every step forward with his blood, especially when trying to bring to his world the first of the companions, who is also possibly the most unlikely.... This book also has great humour moments, especially Roland's comments on our world. It is not frequent to find such a good and exciting read.
three doors and three companions?, 14 Jun 2007
this is king's secon visit to mid-world, the land of the last gunslinger roland deschain. it immediatly picks up where the first book left off, on the beach near the ruins.
this book centres on three doors that appear on this beach, through which another world and time awaits. as well as a prospective companion behind each door.
a great book that carries on the story at a great pace.
bring on the wastelands
Very Readable Horror-Now a Movie., 05 Sep 2008
I read this on a long train ride and it certainly helped to pass the time. People under pressure in a base under seige is always a good bet for an absorbing drama. This 'novella' also shows how people react; bringing out the best and worst in them. Mrs Carmody is a particularly monstrous creation, rivalling anything outside the supermarket. Not sure about the ending though, but you will have to read this to make your own mind up. There is a motion picture of this book now, which I am looking forward to seeing (apparently with a different ending.) A recommended read.
The Mist, 27 Jun 2008
I really enjoyed the book with the people being traped in the Supermarket. I am going to order the movie at Christmas time. It's a bit like the movie Terror in the Mall only instead of water trapping them it is the Mist. The old woman in the book seemed crazy going on about death and saying it's death out there. If the book was excellent I can't wait to see the film when I get it.
I give this book 5 stars!
Good story - Buy Skeleton Crew., 08 Jun 2008
Just a short note to say this story is available in the book 'Skeleton Crew', which is much better value for money. Stephen King is a master of the horror novel, but a lot of his short story collections are highly underrated.
brilliant, 24 Apr 2008
one of my favourite books ever. dead short, but brilliant. if you can get it cheap, it's well worth a read... 5 stars
The Mist, 05 Nov 2007
'The Mist' is a novella written by Stephen King, first published in a collection called Dark Forces and then again in another collection called Skeleton Crew. Now re-released as a stand-alone novel to tie-in with the new movie due out at the end of the year.
The story mainly follows lead character David and his young son Billy as their town is overtaken my a mysterious fog after a serious storm. The man and his son are then trapped in a local supermarket when unearthly creatures begin taking over the small town and killing it's residents.
This is a great short story and one of the best that I've read from Mr King, focussing more on the characters rather than just full-on horror and gore. Once I started reading this I couldn't put it down. There's a couple of silly bits in it that could have been left out but overall it is a great read and one that I would recommend to any fan of King or the horror/sci-fi genre in general. There's also many likenesses to films, books and even games such as The Fog, Silent Hill, War of the Worlds and even some of Stephen King's own later novels. My only complaint is the cop-out ending which just leaves the reader guessing and with a story like this I really felt like I needed some closure. Still, a good, entertaining and suspense-filled thriller that makes me look forward to the movie.
Wolves of the Calla, 01 Apr 2008
And we're back on track! After the massive flashback segment in "Wizard and Glass" the real story of the series begins to drive forward once more, picking up soon after the conclusion of book four.
This story is a little different from previous instalments. The journey towards the elusive Dark Tower slows as the team, King's own "fellowship", stop to help a town that anticipates a violent and devastating attack from the "wolves", a group of almost-men who may kill or abduct their children. There are many secrets in this book, all of which are revealed satisfactorily, and many of the mysteries surrounding Roland's world are also uncovered - although there are just as many new questions as there are answers.
The writing is, as ever, great; the dialogue particularly brings such clarity to this aspect of King's complex series that you don't feel you're reading fantasy, which, as a writer of the genre myself, can often get bogged down in the narrative. King lightens the novel where it needs light, and darkens the novel when the various truths are revealed. Speaking of light and revelations, we see the protagonist Roland in an entirely new light, adding yet another layer to the full rounded character and his companions. It's wonderful and heart-breaking to see our beloved characters in this way, who by now feel like family.
Do we want Roland to succeed? Always. Do we want him to succeed at the expense of his companions, who are also our friends? There are new aspects of the Dark Tower, its substance and purpose, that almost make us think "maybe they aren't all that important after all ..."
Don't miss it. It's a series back on track after a minor slowdown, and it is so intriguing that you'll still be thinking about it weeks later.
Suspense of plots yet to come, 17 Dec 2007
As fantasy worlds go, the parallel earth of the "Dark tower" is unique and refreshing.
The book contains some five minutes of wonderfully written action and some fascinating characters. You can glimpse the true genius of the author throughout the book. Sadly Steven King uses over 400 of 611 pages to build suspense of plots yet to come, in the next instalments of the series. Longwinded is a description that leaps to my mind.
Reading the book is like arduously digging for gold, you find minute nuggets on the way that suggests it's worth your time. When you finally strike gold it's a nice brilliant lump, but you are left with the notion that the grind was not worth the effort.
If you are in need of instant gratification this book is not for you.
OMG!, 26 Sep 2007
Loved it!!!!! I found it hard to believe how brilliantly this was pulled off! Im not a huge Tephen KIng fan but alfter reading this (iv only read this one in the Dard Tower series) i went out and got all the others.
But this one is the best in the series.
Its the most griping book i'v ever read, most good books i read i have to stop reading alfter about 150 pages coz i useally start getting disstracted but this book i read about 500 pages of it (in about three and a half hours) then i HAD to put it down coz i needed to go to have dinner but i started reading it again straught alfter.
This is THE best book in the world along side: BEC by Darren Shan, and Silence of the Lambs by Thomas Harris.
The Plot Thickens, 18 Jul 2007
The key theme of this book is very strong so it is easy to keep track of the direction in which you are going. There are some bad guys and they needed to be dealt with and at the end of the day they will be. The side issues though are what makes the book interesting, the further development of the 'you exist because I think your think' theme, the rapid development of Roland's and Jake's characters, the scene setting for the next book and the tying together of loose ends from previous books, all these go towards making TWOC an enjoyable read. However, there are failings, certain characters play pivotal roles but they are not developed beyond the bare minimum necessary to carry the story. In contrast there is a certain amount of wastage going over old ground; TDT books are not intended to be read on there own so repetition from previous books is pointless. Luckily he does not fall into the trap of repeating huge swathes of the previous novels (ala Jean Auel), but there is sufficient to be annoying. All in all, not as good as WaG, but still very good indeed.
magnificent 4?, 14 Jun 2007
this book is king back to his best, a fast paced story that reeks of the magnificent seven. basically the ka-tet are hired by a village that is being attacked by wolves, which look like Dr. Doom on horseback and throw harry potter sneetches.
a great book that has plenty of action and a few twists. for me the last great book in the series before king starts to play god, literally.
Love dark fairy tales, 16 Sep 2008
I love dark fairy tales and Neil Gaiman doesn't disappoint. Simple yet meaningful, suitable for all to dive into as deep as you dare.
Courtesy of Teens Read Too, 12 Sep 2008
This version of CORALINE is a graphic novel adaptation of the novel penned by Neil Gaiman.
The story follows a common theme in his works of the naive, yet determined, everyman who stumbles into an alternate reality.
The protagonist in this story arises in the form of a young girl named Coraline.
I found the dialogue to be smartly written and the narrative engaging. The artwork, while typical comic fare, set the visual mood quite well.
I greatly enjoyed this story. I found the characters likeable and believable in the context of the story, which in and of itself seemed to me to be an odd metaphor for "growing up."
I cannot recommend this enough to fans of Neil Gaiman's work or to someone looking for something just a little bit different.
Reviewed by: Breia "The Brain" Brickey
wacky,weird and wonderful, 05 Sep 2008
strangely weird but excitingly good. coraline is a short but intense story with so many suprises throughout the chapters. I would put it in my top 10 I could not put down. with a great story line I would recommend it to children over the age of nine as in parts it can be quite scary!!!!!
Kish (aged 10yrs)
Very enjoyable, 13 Aug 2008
I picked this up when it appeared on my son's reading list for school. I must say children now have such a better range of fiction than they did when I was at school. I could not put it down. It's very creepy and highly enjoyable.
Very Inventive!, 17 Jul 2008
I am a confirmed Neil Gaiman fan and so had no qualms about picking up this book - even though it is more for younger readers - and I wasn't disappointed! I thought it worked hard to build up quirky characters and a genuinely creepy atmosphere. In fact, the description of the Other Mother was enough to give me nightmares - and I'm in my twenties! Enjoyable for readers of all ages, though perhaps a little too scary for some small children.
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The Dark Tower
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Stephen King;
2006-07-31;
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Usually dispatched within 1-2 business days
*Best price found from Amazon Marketplace seller
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*Amazon: £1.67
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Customer Reviews
wow - compulsively readable and addictive, 01 Jul 2008
wow
this book is utterly brilliant - unbelievably well written - completely gripping and compulsively readable.
i will be honest that i didn't expect great things after the slightly disappointing Gunslinger, but this 2nd volume in King's Magnum Opus just takes the piss. it is a million miles better than number 1. and has made me a Dark Tower fan in seconds.
it is basically three doors and a story of drawing sidekicks out of them for the enigmatic hero Roland. These characters are amazing and colorful, the world's they come from and the scenes they get embroiled in are readable and gripping. King crafts characters better than most any other writer i know and this is no exception - the intros to every character are huge - and even minor characters get their entire life related to the reader.
its immensely satisfying - i found myself getting through about 150 pages of it in one sitting - it really was an up-all-nighter - the parallel world's and situations are just amazing to read.
King has done himself proud - and after this blinder of a novel i have high high hopes for this epic tale. if the rest of the series is even half as good as this one - it'll be an epic of unrivalled quality.
10/10 - its going straight in my top books - and hopefully if the series lives up it, has guaranteed a place for the whole Dark Tower tale :D
best in show, 05 Apr 2008
this is the best dark tower book - excellent pace, a gripping page turner.
it could almost be a standalone novel (almost) and has the most unique identity of all seven books.
The Drawing of the Three, 01 Apr 2008
It was inevitable that King wouldn't be able to keep up the dreamlike storytelling style that made "Gunslinger", the first in the Dark Tower series, so great. But of course he never intended to, he wanted to thoroughly open up the world that he had only just begun to describe in the first book.
The "Drawing of the Three" brings together the group of travellers that accompany Roland, the gunslinger, on his quest for the Dark Tower. From Roland's world we peer into others, including our own, and from them come to know a group of expertly realised characters in the form of Eddie, Odetta and Jake, all of which become so very real throughout the series that the books are not simply compulsive, but self-driven to the extent that you're worried they'll carry on without you if you ever put them down.
The opening is brilliant. When the story branches and we come to know the new characters, the "three", it gets even better. And, as King is so well at doing, the different threads come together in a manner that makes this second book so difficult to put down.
If you read the first book and wonder if you want to pick up the second, perhaps unsure of the route King is taking in this genre, or intimidated by the size of the sequels, don't hesitate. Pick up the second. If by the end you don't immediately want to pick up the third book, I'll eat my hat. If I owned one.
Roland of Gilead looks for companions for his quest ..., 28 Aug 2007
No quest should be made alone. Every hero gets companions brought to him by the fate and the quest of the Dark Tower is no exception. Roland of Gilead, the last gunslinger of the fast dying world needs to find three companions who were predestined for him - and if he fails, his quest will also fail. But the fate tips often the balance against the hero and Roland starts this challenge with a very serious handicap. No more details will be provided but this book is possibly the most upsetting (in the good sense of the world) in the whole series. The feeling of emergency and the run against the clock is described by Stephen King in a masterly way - as well as the suffering of the main hero, who really pays for every step forward with his blood, especially when trying to bring to his world the first of the companions, who is also possibly the most unlikely.... This book also has great humour moments, especially Roland's comments on our world. It is not frequent to find such a good and exciting read.
three doors and three companions?, 14 Jun 2007
this is king's secon visit to mid-world, the land of the last gunslinger roland deschain. it immediatly picks up where the first book left off, on the beach near the ruins.
this book centres on three doors that appear on this beach, through which another world and time awaits. as well as a prospective companion behind each door.
a great book that carries on the story at a great pace.
bring on the wastelands
Very Readable Horror-Now a Movie., 05 Sep 2008
I read this on a long train ride and it certainly helped to pass the time. People under pressure in a base under seige is always a good bet for an absorbing drama. This 'novella' also shows how people react; bringing out the best and worst in them. Mrs Carmody is a particularly monstrous creation, rivalling anything outside the supermarket. Not sure about the ending though, but you will have to read this to make your own mind up. There is a motion picture of this book now, which I am looking forward to seeing (apparently with a different ending.) A recommended read.
The Mist, 27 Jun 2008
I really enjoyed the book with the people being traped in the Supermarket. I am going to order the movie at Christmas time. It's a bit like the movie Terror in the Mall only instead of water trapping them it is the Mist. The old woman in the book seemed crazy going on about death and saying it's death out there. If the book was excellent I can't wait to see the film when I get it.
I give this book 5 stars!
Good story - Buy Skeleton Crew., 08 Jun 2008
Just a short note to say this story is available in the book 'Skeleton Crew', which is much better value for money. Stephen King is a master of the horror novel, but a lot of his short story collections are highly underrated.
brilliant, 24 Apr 2008
one of my favourite books ever. dead short, but brilliant. if you can get it cheap, it's well worth a read... 5 stars
The Mist, 05 Nov 2007
'The Mist' is a novella written by Stephen King, first published in a collection called Dark Forces and then again in another collection called Skeleton Crew. Now re-released as a stand-alone novel to tie-in with the new movie due out at the end of the year.
The story mainly follows lead character David and his young son Billy as their town is overtaken my a mysterious fog after a serious storm. The man and his son are then trapped in a local supermarket when unearthly creatures begin taking over the small town and killing it's residents.
This is a great short story and one of the best that I've read from Mr King, focussing more on the characters rather than just full-on horror and gore. Once I started reading this I couldn't put it down. There's a couple of silly bits in it that could have been left out but overall it is a great read and one that I would recommend to any fan of King or the horror/sci-fi genre in general. There's also many likenesses to films, books and even games such as The Fog, Silent Hill, War of the Worlds and even some of Stephen King's own later novels. My only complaint is the cop-out ending which just leaves the reader guessing and with a story like this I really felt like I needed some closure. Still, a good, entertaining and suspense-filled thriller that makes me look forward to the movie.
Wolves of the Calla, 01 Apr 2008
And we're back on track! After the massive flashback segment in "Wizard and Glass" the real story of the series begins to drive forward once more, picking up soon after the conclusion of book four.
This story is a little different from previous instalments. The journey towards the elusive Dark Tower slows as the team, King's own "fellowship", stop to help a town that anticipates a violent and devastating attack from the "wolves", a group of almost-men who may kill or abduct their children. There are many secrets in this book, all of which are revealed satisfactorily, and many of the mysteries surrounding Roland's world are also uncovered - although there are just as many new questions as there are answers.
The writing is, as ever, great; the dialogue particularly brings such clarity to this aspect of King's complex series that you don't feel you're reading fantasy, which, as a writer of the genre myself, can often get bogged down in the narrative. King lightens the novel where it needs light, and darkens the novel when the various truths are revealed. Speaking of light and revelations, we see the protagonist Roland in an entirely new light, adding yet another layer to the full rounded character and his companions. It's wonderful and heart-breaking to see our beloved characters in this way, who by now feel like family.
Do we want Roland to succeed? Always. Do we want him to succeed at the expense of his companions, who are also our friends? There are new aspects of the Dark Tower, its substance and purpose, that almost make us think "maybe they aren't all that important after all ..."
Don't miss it. It's a series back on track after a minor slowdown, and it is so intriguing that you'll still be thinking about it weeks later.
Suspense of plots yet to come, 17 Dec 2007
As fantasy worlds go, the parallel earth of the "Dark tower" is unique and refreshing.
The book contains some five minutes of wonderfully written action and some fascinating characters. You can glimpse the true genius of the author throughout the book. Sadly Steven King uses over 400 of 611 pages to build suspense of plots yet to come, in the next instalments of the series. Longwinded is a description that leaps to my mind.
Reading the book is like arduously digging for gold, you find minute nuggets on the way that suggests it's worth your time. When you finally strike gold it's a nice brilliant lump, but you are left with the notion that the grind was not worth the effort.
If you are in need of instant gratification this book is not for you.
OMG!, 26 Sep 2007
Loved it!!!!! I found it hard to believe how brilliantly this was pulled off! Im not a huge Tephen KIng fan but alfter reading this (iv only read this one in the Dard Tower series) i went out and got all the others.
But this one is the best in the series.
Its the most griping book i'v ever read, most good books i read i have to stop reading alfter about 150 pages coz i useally start getting disstracted but this book i read about 500 pages of it (in about three and a half hours) then i HAD to put it down coz i needed to go to have dinner but i started reading it again straught alfter.
This is THE best book in the world along side: BEC by Darren Shan, and Silence of the Lambs by Thomas Harris.
The Plot Thickens, 18 Jul 2007
The key theme of this book is very strong so it is easy to keep track of the direction in which you are going. There are some bad guys and they needed to be dealt with and at the end of the day they will be. The side issues though are what makes the book interesting, the further development of the 'you exist because I think your think' theme, the rapid development of Roland's and Jake's characters, the scene setting for the next book and the tying together of loose ends from previous books, all these go towards making TWOC an enjoyable read. However, there are failings, certain characters play pivotal roles but they are not developed beyond the bare minimum necessary to carry the story. In contrast there is a certain amount of wastage going over old ground; TDT books are not intended to be read on there own so repetition from previous books is pointless. Luckily he does not fall into the trap of repeating huge swathes of the previous novels (ala Jean Auel), but there is sufficient to be annoying. All in all, not as good as WaG, but still very good indeed.
magnificent 4?, 14 Jun 2007
this book is king back to his best, a fast paced story that reeks of the magnificent seven. basically the ka-tet are hired by a village that is being attacked by wolves, which look like Dr. Doom on horseback and throw harry potter sneetches.
a great book that has plenty of action and a few twists. for me the last great book in the series before king starts to play god, literally.
Love dark fairy tales, 16 Sep 2008
I love dark fairy tales and Neil Gaiman doesn't disappoint. Simple yet meaningful, suitable for all to dive into as deep as you dare.
Courtesy of Teens Read Too, 12 Sep 2008
This version of CORALINE is a graphic novel adaptation of the novel penned by Neil Gaiman.
The story follows a common theme in his works of the naive, yet determined, everyman who stumbles into an alternate reality.
The protagonist in this story arises in the form of a young girl named Coraline.
I found the dialogue to be smartly written and the narrative engaging. The artwork, while typical comic fare, set the visual mood quite well.
I greatly enjoyed this story. I found the characters likeable and believable in the context of the story, which in and of itself seemed to me to be an odd metaphor for "growing up."
I cannot recommend this enough to fans of Neil Gaiman's work or to someone looking for something just a little bit different.
Reviewed by: Breia "The Brain" Brickey
wacky,weird and wonderful, 05 Sep 2008
strangely weird but excitingly good. coraline is a short but intense story with so many suprises throughout the chapters. I would put it in my top 10 I could not put down. with a great story line I would recommend it to children over the age of nine as in parts it can be quite scary!!!!!
Kish (aged 10yrs)
Very enjoyable, 13 Aug 2008
I picked this up when it appeared on my son's reading list for school. I must say children now have such a better range of fiction than they did when I was at school. I could not put it down. It's very creepy and highly enjoyable.
Very Inventive!, 17 Jul 2008
I am a confirmed Neil Gaiman fan and so had no qualms about picking up this book - even though it is more for younger readers - and I wasn't disappointed! I thought it worked hard to build up quirky characters and a genuinely creepy atmosphere. In fact, the description of the Other Mother was enough to give me nightmares - and I'm in my twenties! Enjoyable for readers of all ages, though perhaps a little too scary for some small children.
not with a bang but a whimper, 11 Sep 2008
Stephen King is one of the great story-tellers of the twentieth century, but he has always had difficulties with endings (think of the farce of the Stand, or the pathetic conclusion of It). It was with some trepidation, therefore, that I approached this final volume of the series. Before even starting it I thought I just hope he doesn't....But that was exactly what he did. The ending is the most predictacle and the weakest one imaginable. Please, if you have enjoyed the first six novels, don't read this one. It will just leave a bad taste in your mouth, and the feeling you have been wasting your time.
Gutted!, 14 Jul 2008
I'm still at a loss as to how people have given this book 5 stars. I've now read the whole series from start to finish and have to say, that the first 4 (possibly 5) are excellent books. Song of Susannah and the Dark Tower have completely ruined what could have been Kings crowning glory. Kings ridiculous sub-plots, pathetic villains and non-emotive deaths for the members of the ka-tet are criminal!
KING!, 31 May 2008
Genius in the writing, King knew what he was doing from book 1. The ending is not the doom as everyone sees it.
Do not waste your money, 16 May 2008
King should cover himself in ashes and hide away in the darkest corner of his dark tower to dare publish such absolute crap.
Just Magic, 24 Mar 2008
I have waited 30 years to read the conclusions to the Gunslinger, and was overwhelmed by the quality of the final episodes. I will re-read when my
daughter has finished her re-reading of this amazing story.
This deserves 10 stars. A must read!
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Customer Reviews
wow - compulsively readable and addictive, 01 Jul 2008
wow
this book is utterly brilliant - unbelievably well written - completely gripping and compulsively readable.
i will be honest that i didn't expect great things after the slightly disappointing Gunslinger, but this 2nd volume in King's Magnum Opus just takes the piss. it is a million miles better than number 1. and has made me a Dark Tower fan in seconds.
it is basically three doors and a story of drawing sidekicks out of them for the enigmatic hero Roland. These characters are amazing and colorful, the world's they come from and the scenes they get embroiled in are readable and gripping. King crafts characters better than most any other writer i know and this is no exception - the intros to every character are huge - and even minor characters get their entire life related to the reader.
its immensely satisfying - i found myself getting through about 150 pages of it in one sitting - it really was an up-all-nighter - the parallel world's and situations are just amazing to read.
King has done himself proud - and after this blinder of a novel i have high high hopes for this epic tale. if the rest of the series is even half as good as this one - it'll be an epic of unrivalled quality.
10/10 - its going straight in my top books - and hopefully if the series lives up it, has guaranteed a place for the whole Dark Tower tale :D
best in show, 05 Apr 2008
this is the best dark tower book - excellent pace, a gripping page turner.
it could almost be a standalone novel (almost) and has the most unique identity of all seven books.
The Drawing of the Three, 01 Apr 2008
It was inevitable that King wouldn't be able to keep up the dreamlike storytelling style that made "Gunslinger", the first in the Dark Tower series, so great. But of course he never intended to, he wanted to thoroughly open up the world that he had only just begun to describe in the first book.
The "Drawing of the Three" brings together the group of travellers that accompany Roland, the gunslinger, on his quest for the Dark Tower. From Roland's world we peer into others, including our own, and from them come to know a group of expertly realised characters in the form of Eddie, Odetta and Jake, all of which become so very real throughout the series that the books are not simply compulsive, but self-driven to the extent that you're worried they'll carry on without you if you ever put them down.
The opening is brilliant. When the story branches and we come to know the new characters, the "three", it gets even better. And, as King is so well at doing, the different threads come together in a manner that makes this second book so difficult to put down.
If you read the first book and wonder if you want to pick up the second, perhaps unsure of the route King is taking in this genre, or intimidated by the size of the sequels, don't hesitate. Pick up the second. If by the end you don't immediately want to pick up the third book, I'll eat my hat. If I owned one.
Roland of Gilead looks for companions for his quest ..., 28 Aug 2007
No quest should be made alone. Every hero gets companions brought to him by the fate and the quest of the Dark Tower is no exception. Roland of Gilead, the last gunslinger of the fast dying world needs to find three companions who were predestined for him - and if he fails, his quest will also fail. But the fate tips often the balance against the hero and Roland starts this challenge with a very serious handicap. No more details will be provided but this book is possibly the most upsetting (in the good sense of the world) in the whole series. The feeling of emergency and the run against the clock is described by Stephen King in a masterly way - as well as the suffering of the main hero, who really pays for every step forward with his blood, especially when trying to bring to his world the first of the companions, who is also possibly the most unlikely.... This book also has great humour moments, especially Roland's comments on our world. It is not frequent to find such a good and exciting read.
three doors and three companions?, 14 Jun 2007
this is king's secon visit to mid-world, the land of the last gunslinger roland deschain. it immediatly picks up where the first book left off, on the beach near the ruins.
this book centres on three doors that appear on this beach, through which another world and time awaits. as well as a prospective companion behind each door.
a great book that carries on the story at a great pace.
bring on the wastelands
Very Readable Horror-Now a Movie., 05 Sep 2008
I read this on a long train ride and it certainly helped to pass the time. People under pressure in a base under seige is always a good bet for an absorbing drama. This 'novella' also shows how people react; bringing out the best and worst in them. Mrs Carmody is a particularly monstrous creation, rivalling anything outside the supermarket. Not sure about the ending though, but you will have to read this to make your own mind up. There is a motion picture of this book now, which I am looking forward to seeing (apparently with a different ending.) A recommended read.
The Mist, 27 Jun 2008
I really enjoyed the book with the people being traped in the Supermarket. I am going to order the movie at Christmas time. It's a bit like the movie Terror in the Mall only instead of water trapping them it is the Mist. The old woman in the book seemed crazy going on about death and saying it's death out there. If the book was excellent I can't wait to see the film when I get it.
I give this book 5 stars!
Good story - Buy Skeleton Crew., 08 Jun 2008
Just a short note to say this story is available in the book 'Skeleton Crew', which is much better value for money. Stephen King is a master of the horror novel, but a lot of his short story collections are highly underrated.
brilliant, 24 Apr 2008
one of my favourite books ever. dead short, but brilliant. if you can get it cheap, it's well worth a read... 5 stars
The Mist, 05 Nov 2007
'The Mist' is a novella written by Stephen King, first published in a collection called Dark Forces and then again in another collection called Skeleton Crew. Now re-released as a stand-alone novel to tie-in with the new movie due out at the end of the year.
The story mainly follows lead character David and his young son Billy as their town is overtaken my a mysterious fog after a serious storm. The man and his son are then trapped in a local supermarket when unearthly creatures begin taking over the small town and killing it's residents.
This is a great short story and one of the best that I've read from Mr King, focussing more on the characters rather than just full-on horror and gore. Once I started reading this I couldn't put it down. There's a couple of silly bits in it that could have been left out but overall it is a great read and one that I would recommend to any fan of King or the horror/sci-fi genre in general. There's also many likenesses to films, books and even games such as The Fog, Silent Hill, War of the Worlds and even some of Stephen King's own later novels. My only complaint is the cop-out ending which just leaves the reader guessing and with a story like this I really felt like I needed some closure. Still, a good, entertaining and suspense-filled thriller that makes me look forward to the movie.
Wolves of the Calla, 01 Apr 2008
And we're back on track! After the massive flashback segment in "Wizard and Glass" the real story of the series begins to drive forward once more, picking up soon after the conclusion of book four.
This story is a little different from previous instalments. The journey towards the elusive Dark Tower slows as the team, King's own "fellowship", stop to help a town that anticipates a violent and devastating attack from the "wolves", a group of almost-men who may kill or abduct their children. There are many secrets in this book, all of which are revealed satisfactorily, and many of the mysteries surrounding Roland's world are also uncovered - although there are just as many new questions as there are answers.
The writing is, as ever, great; the dialogue particularly brings such clarity to this aspect of King's complex series that you don't feel you're reading fantasy, which, as a writer of the genre myself, can often get bogged down in the narrative. King lightens the novel where it needs light, and darkens the novel when the various truths are revealed. Speaking of light and revelations, we see the protagonist Roland in an entirely new light, adding yet another layer to the full rounded character and his companions. It's wonderful and heart-breaking to see our beloved characters in this way, who by now feel like family.
Do we want Roland to succeed? Always. Do we want him to succeed at the expense of his companions, who are also our friends? There are new aspects of the Dark Tower, its substance and purpose, that almost make us think "maybe they aren't all that important after all ..."
Don't miss it. It's a series back on track after a minor slowdown, and it is so intriguing that you'll still be thinking about it weeks later.
Suspense of plots yet to come, 17 Dec 2007
As fantasy worlds go, the parallel earth of the "Dark tower" is unique and refreshing.
The book contains some five minutes of wonderfully written action and some fascinating characters. You can glimpse the true genius of the author throughout the book. Sadly Steven King uses over 400 of 611 pages to build suspense of plots yet to come, in the next instalments of the series. Longwinded is a description that leaps to my mind.
Reading the book is like arduously digging for gold, you find minute nuggets on the way that suggests it's worth your time. When you finally strike gold it's a nice brilliant lump, but you are left with the notion that the grind was not worth the effort.
If you are in need of instant gratification this book is not for you.
OMG!, 26 Sep 2007
Loved it!!!!! I found it hard to believe how brilliantly this was pulled off! Im not a huge Tephen KIng fan but alfter reading this (iv only read this one in the Dard Tower series) i went out and got all the others.
But this one is the best in the series.
Its the most griping book i'v ever read, most good books i read i have to stop reading alfter about 150 pages coz i useally start getting disstracted but this book i read about 500 pages of it (in about three and a half hours) then i HAD to put it down coz i needed to go to have dinner but i started reading it again straught alfter.
This is THE best book in the world along side: BEC by Darren Shan, and Silence of the Lambs by Thomas Harris.
The Plot Thickens, 18 Jul 2007
The key theme of this book is very strong so it is easy to keep track of the direction in which you are going. There are some bad guys and they needed to be dealt with and at the end of the day they will be. The side issues though are what makes the book interesting, the further development of the 'you exist because I think your think' theme, the rapid development of Roland's and Jake's characters, the scene setting for the next book and the tying together of loose ends from previous books, all these go towards making TWOC an enjoyable read. However, there are failings, certain characters play pivotal roles but they are not developed beyond the bare minimum necessary to carry the story. In contrast there is a certain amount of wastage going over old ground; TDT books are not intended to be read on there own so repetition from previous books is pointless. Luckily he does not fall into the trap of repeating huge swathes of the previous novels (ala Jean Auel), but there is sufficient to be annoying. All in all, not as good as WaG, but still very good indeed.
magnificent 4?, 14 Jun 2007
this book is king back to his best, a fast paced story that reeks of the magnificent seven. basically the ka-tet are hired by a village that is being attacked by wolves, which look like Dr. Doom on horseback and throw harry potter sneetches.
a great book that has plenty of action and a few twists. for me the last great book in the series before king starts to play god, literally.
Love dark fairy tales, 16 Sep 2008
I love dark fairy tales and Neil Gaiman doesn't disappoint. Simple yet meaningful, suitable for all to dive into as deep as you dare.
Courtesy of Teens Read Too, 12 Sep 2008
This version of CORALINE is a graphic novel adaptation of the novel penned by Neil Gaiman.
The story follows a common theme in his works of the naive, yet determined, everyman who stumbles into an alternate reality.
The protagonist in this story arises in the form of a young girl named Coraline.
I found the dialogue to be smartly written and the narrative engaging. The artwork, while typical comic fare, set the visual mood quite well.
I greatly enjoyed this story. I found the characters likeable and believable in the context of the story, which in and of itself seemed to me to be an odd metaphor for "growing up."
I cannot recommend this enough to fans of Neil Gaiman's work or to someone looking for something just a little bit different.
Reviewed by: Breia "The Brain" Brickey
wacky,weird and wonderful, 05 Sep 2008
strangely weird but excitingly good. coraline is a short but intense story with so many suprises throughout the chapters. I would put it in my top 10 I could not put down. with a great story line I would recommend it to children over the age of nine as in parts it can be quite scary!!!!!
Kish (aged 10yrs)
Very enjoyable, 13 Aug 2008
I picked this up when it appeared on my son's reading list for school. I must say children now have such a better range of fiction than they did when I was at school. I could not put it down. It's very creepy and highly enjoyable.
Very Inventive!, 17 Jul 2008
I am a confirmed Neil Gaiman fan and so had no qualms about picking up this book - even though it is more for younger readers - and I wasn't disappointed! I thought it worked hard to build up quirky characters and a genuinely creepy atmosphere. In fact, the description of the Other Mother was enough to give me nightmares - and I'm in my twenties! Enjoyable for readers of all ages, though perhaps a little too scary for some small children.
not with a bang but a whimper, 11 Sep 2008
Stephen King is one of the great story-tellers of the twentieth century, but he has always had difficulties with endings (think of the farce of the Stand, or the pathetic conclusion of It). It was with some trepidation, therefore, that I approached this final volume of the series. Before even starting it I thought I just hope he doesn't....But that was exactly what he did. The ending is the most predictacle and the weakest one imaginable. Please, if you have enjoyed the first six novels, don't read this one. It will just leave a bad taste in your mouth, and the feeling you have been wasting your time.
Gutted!, 14 Jul 2008
I'm still at a loss as to how people have given this book 5 stars. I've now read the whole series from start to finish and have to say, that the first 4 (possibly 5) are excellent books. Song of Susannah and the Dark Tower have completely ruined what could have been Kings crowning glory. Kings ridiculous sub-plots, pathetic villains and non-emotive deaths for the members of the ka-tet are criminal!
KING!, 31 May 2008
Genius in the writing, King knew what he was doing from book 1. The ending is not the doom as everyone sees it.
Do not waste your money, 16 May 2008
King should cover himself in ashes and hide away in the darkest corner of his dark tower to dare publish such absolute crap.
Just Magic, 24 Mar 2008
I have waited 30 years to read the conclusions to the Gunslinger, and was overwhelmed by the quality of the final episodes. I will re-read when my
daughter has finished her re-reading of this amazing story.
This deserves 10 stars. A must read!
One of the best books I have read, 23 Sep 2008
This book was amazing. I loved everything about it, how Anne Rice writes, how the characters develop and Louis is just so nice! For a vampire.
I had seen the movie before I read this book, but the movie is nothing compared to the book. You actually feel as if you are going through Louis life with him as its so detailed. I am now reading the sequel The Vampire Lestat, and would highly recomend that book also, as you will see why Lestat is the way he is in 'Interview'.
But would def read this again and recomend anyone to read this, not just vampire lovers.
Louis! Louis!, 28 Jun 2008
I can't express how much I loved this book! I felt that Louis and Lestat were incredible characters. The emotion in this book is breathtaking and I am just about to start the next one. I will definitely be recommending this book to anyone who hasn't read it. 5 stars!
How I hate this book, 27 May 2008
I started this book in the early 90's and didn't get more than three or four chapters in before I gave up. I found it at the back of a cupboard and decided to give it another go. I still hated it, found it very dry and boring. I was determined though that this time it would not beat me and I would finish it. It took me two weeks but I made myself get to the end, I was so happy when it was over.
I will never read this book again.
ONE OF THE BEST BOOKS I'VE EVER READ, 02 Apr 2008
I was always curious about the Vampire Chronicles set of books for years but never actually picked one up and read it. I had seen the films - Interview With The Vampire and Queen Of The Damned, which I had enjoyed.
Well when I saw Interview With The Vampire in a charity shop I had to buy it there and then. On the plus side they where selling it cheap which added to the buy on impulse.
This first novel in The Vampire Chronicles centers around four very different yet almost equally fascinating vampires. The story is that of Louis, a wealthy eighteenth century Louisiana plantation owner who became a vampire in the depths of his despair over his brother's suicide. Lestat, the inscrutable force that hovers above every page of the tale, made Louis a vampire for basically economic reasons; he wanted the wealth that Louis possessed, but he also wanted a companion. Narcissistic and vain, the dapper Lestat does not teach his creation what it means to be a vampire, does not share the secrets he claims to know, does not even help Louis through the soul-shattering change that comes about when the body dies so that it may live eternally. Louis stays with Lestat only because, so far as he knows, there are no other vampires to whom he can turn for help and instruction. His distaste for Lestat grows over the years, however, and in order to keep Louis by his side, Lestat takes a young girl whom Louis had fed upon during a period of emotional turbulence and makes of her a vampire, knowing that Louis could never abandon the child. It is the story of Claudia, doomed to a most tragic life of immortality trapped inside the body of a little girl, that makes this book so powerful in my eyes. Lestat is of course fascinating, Louis is the epitome of tragedy and a fountain of knowledge by way of his questioning, eternally sad nature, but Claudia's story is an unbearably exquisite one. She accepts her vampire nature with some ease, being too young to really ever remember her human childhood, but the growth of Claudia the vampire woman inside the body of Claudia the child is a beautifully painful thing to watch. When she manages to separate Louis and herself from Lestat to go searching for other vampires in Central Europe and eventually Paris, giving dramatic voice to both her love for and hatred of Louis, the door to the dungeons of utter tragedy are thrown asunder. The introduction of the four hundred year old vampire Armand in the second half of the book gives us yet another unique vampire soul to ponder, but Armand at his most vivid pales in comparison to Claudia at her most unprepossessing.
In the end, we are left with Louis and his story, which is full of unanswerable questions. Even the meaning and lesson he tries to express about his miserable existence utterly fail in their influence it has upon the boy chosen to hear his extraordinary story. Literature really provides no better character study of the emotional meaning of vampirism than Louis, however. He became a creature of the night only out of despair, and his development as a new creature on earth proceeded without any instruction whatsoever from the cold Lestat. Thus, he questions everything about his new nature, desperately longing for a mentor. He does not relish the taking of human life, and the thought of creating another creature like himself is anathema to him. He sees vampirism as a curse, eternally wondering if he is indeed a child of Satan doomed to an immortal yet cursed life. The source of his moral suffering is his inability to really give up his human nature, and this causes him a long, long life of torment and pain. Never before had the moral, spiritual, and philosophical nature of the vampire been explored in such depth as that found in this exquisitely beautiful novel, and that is one of the primary reasons why it rivals Stoker in terms of its beauty and resonates with an emotionally hypnotic power that is unmatched in the long tradition of vampire literature.
I know it doesn't sound exciting but it's one hell of a read and because of this book I have become a huge fan and decided to look for and buy the rest. Anne said "it originally started as a short story and I just built upon it and it became a novel which got published" *
These vampires are not the cold hearted killing machines (well Lestat is) that we are used to seeing in films and magazines, these vampires have emotional feeling and Louis is constantly battling with what he has become and his longing for others which are like him upon which he begins a search for them. This book is breath taking and I found it hard to put it down for the night for me to sleep. I would recommend you pick yourself a copy up and see what all the hype is about.
I saw the sequel to it named The Vampire Lestat in a charity shop the week later so I bought that too.
I enjoyed the film but I found in the film with timing restrains they had left a lot out that is in the book so I found the book a lot better then the film - and the screenplay was written by Anne Rice too.
So please pick yourself up a copy and begin to read one of the greatest books ever written and hopefully you will find yourself enjoying it then looking for the rest like I did.
Thank you for reading my review
(* is a quote I took from an interview Anne Rice had about Interview With The Vampire on the special features on the Interview With The Vampire film dvd)
Disappointing, 14 Jan 2008
After reading the rave reviews on this site, I feel compelled to disagree with its superfluous praise.
I concede that this is an important vampire book and that the movie was absolutely brilliant, but in no way is the book superior to the movie. Anne Rice's tone is dull and monotonous to the point of banality. Overall, I found it painfully boring after watching the movie. Even the movie had a better ending than the book.
Serious readers of fiction won't be impressed with this book, and should rather read the classic, Dracula, for those interested in vampires.
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Customer Reviews
wow - compulsively readable and addictive, 01 Jul 2008
wow
this book is utterly brilliant - unbelievably well written - completely gripping and compulsively readable.
i will be honest that i didn't expect great things after the slightly disappointing Gunslinger, but this 2nd volume in King's Magnum Opus just takes the piss. it is a million miles better than number 1. and has made me a Dark Tower fan in seconds.
it is basically three doors and a story of drawing sidekicks out of them for the enigmatic hero Roland. These characters are amazing and colorful, the world's they come from and the scenes they get embroiled in are readable and gripping. King crafts characters better than most any other writer i know and this is no exception - the intros to every character are huge - and even minor characters get their entire life related to the reader.
its immensely satisfying - i found myself getting through about 150 pages of it in one sitting - it really was an up-all-nighter - the parallel world's and situations are just amazing to read.
King has done himself proud - and after this blinder of a novel i have high high hopes for this epic tale. if the rest of the series is even half as good as this one - it'll be an epic of unrivalled quality.
10/10 - its going straight in my top books - and hopefully if the series lives up it, has guaranteed a place for the whole Dark Tower tale :D
best in show, 05 Apr 2008
this is the best dark tower book - excellent pace, a gripping page turner.
it could almost be a standalone novel (almost) and has the most unique identity of all seven books.
The Drawing of the Three, 01 Apr 2008
It was inevitable that King wouldn't be able to keep up the dreamlike storytelling style that made "Gunslinger", the first in the Dark Tower series, so great. But of course he never intended to, he wanted to thoroughly open up the world that he had only just begun to describe in the first book.
The "Drawing of the Three" brings together the group of travellers that accompany Roland, the gunslinger, on his quest for the Dark Tower. From Roland's world we peer into others, including our own, and from them come to know a group of expertly realised characters in the form of Eddie, Odetta and Jake, all of which become so very real throughout the series that the books are not simply compulsive, but self-driven to the extent that you're worried they'll carry on without you if you ever put them down.
The opening is brilliant. When the story branches and we come to know the new characters, the "three", it gets even better. And, as King is so well at doing, the different threads come together in a manner that makes this second book so difficult to put down.
If you read the first book and wonder if you want to pick up the second, perhaps unsure of the route King is taking in this genre, or intimidated by the size of the sequels, don't hesitate. Pick up the second. If by the end you don't immediately want to pick up the third book, I'll eat my hat. If I owned one.
Roland of Gilead looks for companions for his quest ..., 28 Aug 2007
No quest should be made alone. Every hero gets companions brought to him by the fate and the quest of the Dark Tower is no exception. Roland of Gilead, the last gunslinger of the fast dying world needs to find three companions who were predestined for him - and if he fails, his quest will also fail. But the fate tips often the balance against the hero and Roland starts this challenge with a very serious handicap. No more details will be provided but this book is possibly the most upsetting (in the good sense of the world) in the whole series. The feeling of emergency and the run against the clock is described by Stephen King in a masterly way - as well as the suffering of the main hero, who really pays for every step forward with his blood, especially when trying to bring to his world the first of the companions, who is also possibly the most unlikely.... This book also has great humour moments, especially Roland's comments on our world. It is not frequent to find such a good and exciting read.
three doors and three companions?, 14 Jun 2007
this is king's secon visit to mid-world, the land of the last gunslinger roland deschain. it immediatly picks up where the first book left off, on the beach near the ruins.
this book centres on three doors that appear on this beach, through which another world and time awaits. as well as a prospective companion behind each door.
a great book that carries on the story at a great pace.
bring on the wastelands
Very Readable Horror-Now a Movie., 05 Sep 2008
I read this on a long train ride and it certainly helped to pass the time. People under pressure in a base under seige is always a good bet for an absorbing drama. This 'novella' also shows how people react; bringing out the best and worst in them. Mrs Carmody is a particularly monstrous creation, rivalling anything outside the supermarket. Not sure about the ending though, but you will have to read this to make your own mind up. There is a motion picture of this book now, which I am looking forward to seeing (apparently with a different ending.) A recommended read.
The Mist, 27 Jun 2008
I really enjoyed the book with the people being traped in the Supermarket. I am going to order the movie at Christmas time. It's a bit like the movie Terror in the Mall only instead of water trapping them it is the Mist. The old woman in the book seemed crazy going on about death and saying it's death out there. If the book was excellent I can't wait to see the film when I get it.
I give this book 5 stars!
Good story - Buy Skeleton Crew., 08 Jun 2008
Just a short note to say this story is available in the book 'Skeleton Crew', which is much better value for money. Stephen King is a master of the horror novel, but a lot of his short story collections are highly underrated.
brilliant, 24 Apr 2008
one of my favourite books ever. dead short, but brilliant. if you can get it cheap, it's well worth a read... 5 stars
The Mist, 05 Nov 2007
'The Mist' is a novella written by Stephen King, first published in a collection called Dark Forces and then again in another collection called Skeleton Crew. Now re-released as a stand-alone novel to tie-in with the new movie due out at the end of the year.
The story mainly follows lead character David and his young son Billy as their town is overtaken my a mysterious fog after a serious storm. The man and his son are then trapped in a local supermarket when unearthly creatures begin taking over the small town and killing it's residents.
This is a great short story and one of the best that I've read from Mr King, focussing more on the characters rather than just full-on horror and gore. Once I started reading this I couldn't put it down. There's a couple of silly bits in it that could have been left out but overall it is a great read and one that I would recommend to any fan of King or the horror/sci-fi genre in general. There's also many likenesses to films, books and even games such as The Fog, Silent Hill, War of the Worlds and even some of Stephen King's own later novels. My only complaint is the cop-out ending which just leaves the reader guessing and with a story like this I really felt like I needed some closure. Still, a good, entertaining and suspense-filled thriller that makes me look forward to the movie.
Wolves of the Calla, 01 Apr 2008
And we're back on track! After the massive flashback segment in "Wizard and Glass" the real story of the series begins to drive forward once more, picking up soon after the conclusion of book four.
This story is a little different from previous instalments. The journey towards the elusive Dark Tower slows as the team, King's own "fellowship", stop to help a town that anticipates a violent and devastating attack from the "wolves", a group of almost-men who may kill or abduct their children. There are many secrets in this book, all of which are revealed satisfactorily, and many of the mysteries surrounding Roland's world are also uncovered - although there are just as many new questions as there are answers.
The writing is, as ever, great; the dialogue particularly brings such clarity to this aspect of King's complex series that you don't feel you're reading fantasy, which, as a writer of the genre myself, can often get bogged down in the narrative. King lightens the novel where it needs light, and darkens the novel when the various truths are revealed. Speaking of light and revelations, we see the protagonist Roland in an entirely new light, adding yet another layer to the full rounded character and his companions. It's wonderful and heart-breaking to see our beloved characters in this way, who by now feel like family.
Do we want Roland to succeed? Always. Do we want him to succeed at the expense of his companions, who are also our friends? There are new aspects of the Dark Tower, its substance and purpose, that almost make us think "maybe they aren't all that important after all ..."
Don't miss it. It's a series back on track after a minor slowdown, and it is so intriguing that you'll still be thinking about it weeks later.
Suspense of plots yet to come, 17 Dec 2007
As fantasy worlds go, the parallel earth of the "Dark tower" is unique and refreshing.
The book contains some five minutes of wonderfully written action and some fascinating characters. You can glimpse the true genius of the author throughout the book. Sadly Steven King uses over 400 of 611 pages to build suspense of plots yet to come, in the next instalments of the series. Longwinded is a description that leaps to my mind.
Reading the book is like arduously digging for gold, you find minute nuggets on the way that suggests it's worth your time. When you finally strike gold it's a nice brilliant lump, but you are left with the notion that the grind was not worth the effort.
If you are in need of instant gratification this book is not for you.
OMG!, 26 Sep 2007
Loved it!!!!! I found it hard to believe how brilliantly this was pulled off! Im not a huge Tephen KIng fan but alfter reading this (iv only read this one in the Dard Tower series) i went out and got all the others.
But this one is the best in the series.
Its the most griping book i'v ever read, most good books i read i have to stop reading alfter about 150 pages coz i useally start getting disstracted but this book i read about 500 pages of it (in about three and a half hours) then i HAD to put it down coz i needed to go to have dinner but i started reading it again straught alfter.
This is THE best book in the world along side: BEC by Darren Shan, and Silence of the Lambs by Thomas Harris.
The Plot Thickens, 18 Jul 2007
The key theme of this book is very strong so it is easy to keep track of the direction in which you are going. There are some bad guys and they needed to be dealt with and at the end of the day they will be. The side issues though are what makes the book interesting, the further development of the 'you exist because I think your think' theme, the rapid development of Roland's and Jake's characters, the scene setting for the next book and the tying together of loose ends from previous books, all these go towards making TWOC an enjoyable read. However, there are failings, certain characters play pivotal roles but they are not developed beyond the bare minimum necessary to carry the story. In contrast there is a certain amount of wastage going over old ground; TDT books are not intended to be read on there own so repetition from previous books is pointless. Luckily he does not fall into the trap of repeating huge swathes of the previous novels (ala Jean Auel), but there is sufficient to be annoying. All in all, not as good as WaG, but still very good indeed.
magnificent 4?, 14 Jun 2007
this book is king back to his best, a fast paced story that reeks of the magnificent seven. basically the ka-tet are hired by a village that is being attacked by wolves, which look like Dr. Doom on horseback and throw harry potter sneetches.
a great book that has plenty of action and a few twists. for me the last great book in the series before king starts to play god, literally.
Love dark fairy tales, 16 Sep 2008
I love dark fairy tales and Neil Gaiman doesn't disappoint. Simple yet meaningful, suitable for all to dive into as deep as you dare.
Courtesy of Teens Read Too, 12 Sep 2008
This version of CORALINE is a graphic novel adaptation of the novel penned by Neil Gaiman.
The story follows a common theme in his works of the naive, yet determined, everyman who stumbles into an alternate reality.
The protagonist in this story arises in the form of a young girl named Coraline.
I found the dialogue to be smartly written and the narrative engaging. The artwork, while typical comic fare, set the vi | | |