This was my first Stephen King horror novel. (I know, I'm ashamed of me too.) This was both exactly what I expected and more horrifying than I could have imagined, and I would not recommend to those with weak stomachs. That being said, it was a fascinating exploration of what the mind and the body can endure, and how cruel a person can be. King did an amazing job of blending sheer terror with even-keeled moments that made the novel read like a hot day with occasional gusts of air; not enough to keep you cool, but enough to keep you outside.