Honest Book Reviews by Namsu

The Dark Half (1993) (R)

The Green Mile (1999) (16+)

Salem’s Lot (1979) (G)

https://rebrand.ly/Salems-Lot-The-Miniseries-2004-NR

Salem’s Lot: The Miniseries (2004) (NR)

The Dark Tower 8 Book Boxed Set (Paperback)

https://rebrand.ly/Dark-Tower-8-Book-Boxed-Set-Paperback

The Dark Tower (2017) (PG-13)

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Blaze Review

Stephen King, American, Classics, Fiction, Horror, Kidnapping, Literary, Literature, Mystery, Psychological, Suspense, Suspense, Thriller

Blaze

Published: 12, June 2007

Author: Stephen King

Genre: American, Classics, Fiction, Horror, Kidnapping, Literary, Literature, Mystery, Psychological, Suspense, Thriller

Check the summary of this book here:

Blaze Summary

The Review

Stephen King's work Blaze was published under the alias Richard Bachman. On his website, Stephen King stated that he "discovered it" in an attic. It was written before Carrie, according to the afterword of Different Seasons. The first manuscript of the novel was sent to Doubleday publishers at the same time as Salem's Lot; the latter was chosen as his second novel, and Blaze was relegated to a trunk novel.

Stephen King reworked the manuscript, removing much of what he saw as the original text's over-sentimentality, and offered the book for publishing in 2007. Memory, a short tale initially published in 2006 and incorporated into Duma Key by the author, is also included in the collection.

It's difficult to have high expectations for a book that begins with the author admitting in "Disclosure" that he has no feelings for his own work and has discarded the original hardcopy.

In my perspective, the "Disclosure" is essentially a part of the tale and helps to generate excitement, and I enjoyed reading it even if it does make you reconsider the novel after reading it.

However, I think Blaze is a fantastic book. It immediately draws you in with its compassionately sluggish main character and drags you along to the inevitable conclusion.

The author always understands what works and what doesn't in his books, and he's right that this book's flashbacks are its strongest feature. They had a clear sweetness that I like, even when they occasionally drift into Near-Upton Sinclair-Esque melodrama.

If we're being honest, they're a touch clichéd, but author has always been a master of the little aspects of spirit and humanity. That's on a full show right now.

In this work, author does a fantastic job of making you appreciate someone who is doing something he knows is wrong. Blaze is the ultimate pulling on your heartstrings huge stupid person — Actually, he's the original John Coffey in my mind.

Blaze is a clever youngster who had his brain scrambled by a drunk, abusive father and now stands a gigantic 6'7". He is a small-time con artist whose partner dies just before their big final score, and Blaze must carry on alone, with the assistance of his partner's spirit.

Blaze thinks he's outsmarting everyone, but he's clearly building a trail that will lead directly back to him, so you almost have to shake your head in compassion. The unraveling of his crime is as predictable as his reaction to the items he has taken.

Blaze's tragic increasing attachment for the infant he kidnaps is almost funny in its melodrama, yet you can't help but be affected by it. That's all down to author's skill to make you care about such a situation and the person involved.

Stephen King's Blaze is a plain, almost romantic novel, and I thoroughly enjoyed every nostalgic bit of it.

This is a short book with an excellent narrative. It was written in the 1970s, but Stephen King refused to publish it because he didn't think it was a decent story. You come to know the characters and experience a sense of intimacy with them, as you do in all Stephen King books.

This one is the same, and you'll find yourself rooting for the bad guy since he'll remind you of John Coffey from The Green Mile, as I mentioned before.

If you like Of Mice and Men, this is a terrific Stephen King novel to read. Both involve a couple of guys attempting to make ends meet, one of which is the smarter of the two, and the other is this 6'7" gentle giant who isn't that bright owing to his father's beatings as a child.

This does not, in my opinion, belong in the Richard Bachman vault, but it was a good read with a sentimental crime fiction flavor rather than suspense, thrills, or terror. A must-read for Stephen King fans and serious collectors, but not one I'd suggest if you're looking for his best horror stories.

Although the author is well renowned for his horror novels, his non-horror works are equally as outstanding. Billy Summers comes to mind, as does this older book.

Blaze, like Billy Summers, is about a criminal, a damaged individual who commits evil acts but whom you can't help but like since the amazing author portrays him sympathetically.

We are reminded that there is a huge range of tones between black and white. Blaze, the titular character, is lost in the mists of time. He's a con artist, yet he's likable. He commits atrocities, but one can't help but feel sad for him. I believe his life might have turned out quite differently if he had a better start in life if his father hadn't pushed him down a flight of stairs and harmed his brain.

But, like the rest of us, Blaze can't change his history. He's a victim of circumstance who is eking out a living the best he can.

Stephen King's writing style astounds me, and his ability to make any scenario appear genuine. I had to tell myself that Blaze is a fictional character, and I don't have to feel sorry for him. But I adore it when I feel so strongly about a character that it's nearly difficult to believe they're not a real person.

If you're a fan of Stephen King or simply enjoy a well-told narrative, you should read this one. You won't be scared, but you'll most likely love it.

Final Thoughts

Stephen King's stories are usually dripping with bleak reality. I've always believed that's one of the reasons he's been so successful. One of his specialties is bringing the horror genre out of the gothic castles and into the American breakfast table and it always seems to work.

This narrative is really no different in that it depicts a tragic situation that, hopefully, most of us will never have to face. It was fantastic!

This narrative has the same relatively similar tone as every previous novel Stephen King has written as Richard Bachman, with the exception of Thinner.

With the lengthy, Lisey's Narrative being the last Stephen King novel released before this one, the compact, brutal storytelling is a wonderful surprise. This work might easily be categorized as the fifth in The Bachman Books.

The tone is almost identical to that of Road Work and Rage. This is a definite winner if you enjoy either of those. I believe King mentions "Of Mice and Men" as a source of inspiration somewhere in the preface, and the influence is undeniable. However, there is a definite Stephen King spin to it.

You owe it to yourself to take up this book if you like the old stuff.

Synopsis

“Master storyteller Stephen King (writing as Richard Bachman) presents this gripping and remarkable New York Times bestselling crime novel about a damaged young man who embarks on an ill-advised kidnapping plot—a work as taut and riveting as anything he has ever written.

Once upon a time, a fellow named Richard Bachman wrote Blaze on an Olivetti typewriter, then turned the machine over to Stephen King, who used it to write Carrie. Bachman died in 1985 (“cancer of the pseudonym”), but this last gripping Bachman novel resurfaced after being hidden away for decades—an unforgettable crime story tinged with sadness and suspense.

Clayton Blaisdell, Jr., was always a small-time delinquent. None too bright either, thanks to the beatings he got as a kid. Then Blaze met George Rackley, a seasoned pro with a hundred cons and one big idea. The kidnapping should go off without a hitch, with George as the brains behind their dangerous scheme. But there's only one problem: by the time the deal goes down, Blaze's partner in crime is dead. Or is he?”

Useful Search Related Words & Keywords

Bachman Books, Bad Guy, Character Development, Clayton Blaisdell, Dent In His Forehead, Duma Key, Even Though, Highly Recommend, Main Character, Mice And Men, Trunk Novel

Rating: 90/100

Recommended: 90/100 Yes.

Buy the Kindle Version Here

Free With Free Audible Trial

https://rebrand.ly/Blaze-Audible

Thinner (1996) (R)

https://rebrand.ly/Thinner-1996-R

The Running Man (1987) (R)

The Dark Half (1993) (R)

The Green Mile (1999) (16+)

Salem’s Lot (1979) (G)

https://rebrand.ly/Salems-Lot-The-Miniseries-2004-NR

Salem’s Lot: The Miniseries (2004) (NR)

The Dark Tower 8 Book Boxed Set (Paperback)

https://rebrand.ly/Dark-Tower-8-Book-Boxed-Set-Paperback

The Dark Tower (2017) (PG-13)

Compare Kindle E-readers on one page

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Thinner Review

Stephen King, Richard Bachman, American, Classics, Drama, Fiction, Horror, Literature, Media Tie-In, Supernatural, Thriller

Thinner

Published: 19, November 1984

Author: Stephen King

Genre: American, Classics, Drama, Fiction, Horror, Literature, Media Tie-In, Supernatural, Thriller

Check the summary of this book here:

Thinner Summary

The Review

Thinner is a Stephen King horror thriller written under the pen name Richard Bachman. The plot revolves around lawyer Billy Halleck, who ends up killing a Romani lady crossing the street in a car accident but avoids legal punishment due to his connections. Billy Halleck, on the other hand, is cursed by the woman's father, who makes him lose weight uncontrollably. I'm freely revealing the plot because it's listed on the back of the book, so it's not a spoiler in my opinion, and the same goes for some of the things I mentioned under Final Thoughts at the conclusion of this review.

Following an annual medical inspection, Stephen King, who was overweight at the time of the novel's composition, conceived the novel's outline.

Stephen King was at his most creative in the 1970s and 1980s. He was, without a question, the King of the literary world at the time. Thinner is from this epoch. That, of course, means that this novel is fantastic!

I read it once before, and I just completed listening to the audio version. The narrative is just as compelling today as it was then. Wonderful characters, tremendous plot, great prowess, and a fantastic finish! I really suggest this book; whether you read it, listen to it or both!

While reading Thinner, I had a lot of fun and experienced a lot of different emotions. It's another of my all-time favorite Stephen King works, written under the pen name Richard Bachman.

It stands among Misery, The Stand, The Shining, and The Running Man in my opinion. I mean, I had a great time. I purchased it in hardcover, then the Kindle edition, and then the audiobook.

The ominous soundtrack played between chapters added to the unsettling effect of the audiobook. Unlike many audiobook soundtracks, it enhanced the story's atmosphere rather than detracting from it.

I usually read or listen to many novels at once; alternating between them depending on my mood, but this was not the case with Thinner.

In my spare time, I read and listened to it all the way through, eventually staying up too late one night to finish it. All three times I've read or listened to it, it's been the same.

The plot appealed to me more than the plots of previous Stephen King works. He left a lot to the imagination, including the whole detail of what transpired the night of the disaster, which kept me guessing.

I also didn't see the finale coming or guess it. With a less talented writer, I usually figure who the bad people are, who's going to get it, who's going to win or lose, and so on halfway through, if not a quarter of the way through, but not with Thinner.

I honestly wanted Billy Halleck to be in more pain than he already was. I was basically with Taduz Lemke, the father of the unlucky dead lady, and I thought the same thing in real life.

Yes, it was the mistake of the lady who died, since she essentially rushed in front of the car. So it's a mistake on both sides, but still I didn't care for Billy Halleck. I'm not shocked by how I felt while reading the book since Stephen King's writing style is so fantastic, and he clearly wants the readers to despise Billy Halleck or be undecided about how to feel about him and the circumstance he was in.

The characters were among Stephen King's most memorable. Thinner is an outstanding illustration of his ability to create real individuals with true motivations, virtues, and weaknesses.

Each character was believable in every way, from their habits to their conversation to their actions. In fact, I didn't feel like I was reading characters at all; instead, I felt like I was watching portrayals of real people doing real things.

The conclusion came as a shock. It wasn't a happy conclusion, but then again, they aren't often in real life. All of my friends and reading groups with whom I discussed the novel were enthusiastic.

Some people experienced problems with this novel, and they were all unhappy with the finale. Okay, let's just say this narrative isn't for you if you want your books to have happy endings.

I thought it was reasonable, though not pleasant. People are forced to live with the repercussions of their decisions but those decisions might have a negative impact on others.

Readers may have noticed that I didn’t talk about the movie adaptation of this novel, the reason is that I don’t recall the full movie except for some scenes because I watched it a long time ago and can’t pinpoint the difference between the movie and the novel, but one thing that I remember is that my cousins were on Billy’s side for some reason so maybe it was twisted into making him the hero.

And what I remember is that the movie was almost as it was in the novel but some details are different in some parts except for the ending because the ending is the same and some details relating to the wife of Billy.

One of the most stunning aspects of the film was the creepy makeup of Taduz Lemke, performed by Michael Constantine, which was almost precisely as I envisioned him while reading the novel.

I encourage readers to write comments and email me about the film so that I may edit this section of the review. I'll try to watch the movie again if I have the time, so I can fix the problem myself if necessary.

Thinner was an unexpected and really entertaining book for me, and one of Stephen King's best as Richard Bachman.

Final Thoughts

Stephen King has always astonished me with his fertile imagination; how does he come up with ideas like a rabid dog holding a family hostage, as in Cujo, or a haunted automobile, as in Christine?

With Thinner, the Stephen King's deranged imagination runs wild as he conjures up a scenario about what it would be like if an overweight guy was cursed with losing weight at an alarming pace and if he could discover a method to reverse the curse or whether he would waste away. This is the core of this work; it is not classically written, yet it is nevertheless a page-turner due to the well-conceived tale.

If you're a voracious reader like me, you might have found parallels between Thinner and Dark Melody of Madness, a short novel by Cornell Woolrich published in 1935. Woolrich's novel likewise has a guy condemned to die in agony — except this time it's a voodoo spell rather than a gypsy curse. But I wouldn't call it a knockoff.

As with all Stephen King works, this one moves quickly as we see Billy Halleck, a humdrum Connecticut lawyer, lose a lot of weight after his trial for hitting and killing a gypsy lady is completed.

Halleck's sole explanation for the weight reduction is the acts of the gypsy lady's father, who caressed Halleck's face and muttered the phrase "thinner" in his ear as he went on at the end of the trial.

When Billy's weight loss becomes worrying, he concludes that the curse is genuine and decides to face the gypsy and convince him to remove the curse...the ensuing chase and denouement become more of a psychological game than a physically gruesome narrative.

The conclusion is unexpected and "classic" Stephen King...as in much of the author's writing, the least expected consequence is the one that follows, leaving the reader surprised.

This is a fantastic summer light read for most fans of psychological thrillers. It's an easy book that passes by quickly.

Synopsis

“The “extraordinary” (Booklist) novel of a cursed man’s quest to find the source of his nightmare and to reverse it before he becomes…nothing at all. This #1 New York Times bestseller from Stephen King, writing as Richard Bachman, “pulsates with evil…[and] will have you on the edge of your seat” (Publishers Weekly).

“You can’t do anything… It’s gone too far. You understand, Halleck? Too…far.

Attorney Billy Halleck seriously enjoys living his life of upper-class excess. He’s got it all—an expensive home in Connecticut, a loving family…and fifty extra pounds that his doctor repeatedly warns will be the death of him. Then, in a moment of carelessness, Halleck commits vehicular manslaughter when he strikes a jaywalking old woman crossing the street. But Halleck has some powerful local connections, and gets off with a slap on the wrist…much to the fury of the woman’s mysterious and ancient father, who exacts revenge with a single word: “Thinner.” Now a terrified Halleck finds the weight once so difficult to shed dropping effortlessly—and rapidly—by the week. Soon there will be nothing left of Billy Halleck…unless he can somehow locate the source of his living nightmare and reverse what’s happened to him before he utterly wastes away…”

Useful Search Related Words & Keywords

Alarming Rate, Billy Halleck, Even Though, Gypsy Curse, Gypsy Woman, Highly Recommend, Joe Mantegna, King At His Best, Lucinda Jenney, Main Character, Old Gypsy, Pen Name, Robert John Burke, Tom Holland, Weight Loss, Word Thinner

Rating: 90/100

Recommended: 90/100 Yes.

Buy the Kindle Version Here

Free With Free Audible Trial

https://rebrand.ly/Thinner-Audible

Thinner (1996) (R)

https://rebrand.ly/Thinner-1996-R

The Running Man (1987) (R)

The Dark Half (1993) (R)

The Green Mile (1999) (16+)

Salem’s Lot (1979) (G)

https://rebrand.ly/Salems-Lot-The-Miniseries-2004-NR

Salem’s Lot: The Miniseries (2004) (NR)

The Dark Tower 8 Book Boxed Set (Paperback)

https://rebrand.ly/Dark-Tower-8-Book-Boxed-Set-Paperback

The Dark Tower (2017) (PG-13)

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The Regulators Review

Stephen King, American, Fantasy, Fiction, Ghost, Horror, Literature, Paranormal, Supernatural, Suspense, Thriller, Urban

The Regulators

Published: 24, September 1996

Author: Stephen King

Genre: American, Fantasy, Fiction, Ghost, Horror, Literature, Paranormal, Supernatural, Suspense, Thriller, Urban

Check the summary of this book here:

The Regulators Summary

The Review

Stephen King's work The Regulators was written under the alias Richard Bachman. It was released in 1996, along with its "mirror novel," Desperation. The two novels depict parallel universes in relation to one another, with most of the people from one story appearing in the other's reality, but under different circumstances. Furthermore, when the hardcover first editions of each novel are placed side by side, they form a full painting, and on the back of each cover is a glimpse at the cover of the book on the other side.

Stephen King had already "killed off" Bachman after the alias was widely revealed around the time of the publishing of Bachman's novel Thinner in 1984. However, according to the book's jacket and a tongue-in-cheek preface by the book's editor, Bachman had written this 1996 work years before, but the manuscript had just recently been discovered in a trunk by his widow.

As always, the author provides just the right amount of tension and backstory. You only receive enough information to keep you reading.

I've seen a lot of criticism for this book, and the major reason is because of Stephen King's detractors who dislike him because of his views, as well as those who read Desperation before reading this book.

If you like the author and aren't seeking for literary greatness, just a fun fast-paced read, this is the book for you.

I really don't have any issues with this narrative, which begins on what looks to be any typical day in an Ohio suburb, except that on this day, the people awoke in the Twilight Zone, but I don't think any episode of the Twilight Zone could be as brutal or horrific.

The author describes the setting so brilliantly in this narrative that you can almost hear the chirping birds yourself. That is, until the first bullet blasts out...

Tak, in my opinion, is nothing compared to the Crimson King of the Dark Tower series or the renowned Randall Flagg from The Stand; he was simply a tiny pervert with a taste for chocolate milk and Chef Boyardee. But the destruction wrought by it made me sad and enraged.

Though Stephen King does not explicitly declare it in "The Regulators," it is linked to "The Dark Tower" in some way, as are all of his writings. Tak, the malevolent monster, speaks in the same dialect as the can-toi in "The Dark Tower."

I also feel that the Tower's appearance on that specific Earth is mentioned at the conclusion, and there's a strong suggestion that Tak originates from the same place beyond the world as Pennywise/It and the Crimson King.

In fact, the end of "The Regulators" helped me understand something that happened at the end of "The Dark Tower." I wish I had the opportunity to ask Stephen King if my assumptions about these relationships are correct!

I felt bad for everybody connected, especially the kids. However, I am conflicted about the outcome of this narrative. The way it finished makes you wonder why this narrative went on for so long.

When the reality about why toy vehicles were out to harm them was eventually exposed, the threat was easily handled. It's no surprise that a specific character only joins the other characters in the last 20% of the novel. There was no other way for this narrative to conclude than the way it did.

I previously indicated that I read Desperation before reading this book, and if you have, you should be aware of a problem. This novel will strike you as strangely familiar, and not in a good way.

I propose placing some books and time between the two to reduce your inclination to despise it right away because of the recasting of people in whole new settings, with new personalities and families.

Desperation is my favorite of the two, although it might be because I read it first. It's not that I despise this book; in fact, I adore it. The main difference for me was that I felt the characters in Desperation to be a little more realistic; they are extremely similar to characters the author has used in previous works.

The beginning was thrilling, the middle was just what a middle is, but the conclusion was thrilling as well. It was a very traditional (for Stephen King as Richard Bachman) horror story, complete with the usual (once again usual for Stephen King) gore.

However, a number of the characters were well-drawn and the type you'd like to see make it to the conclusion.

As is generally often the case, there was a twist in the end. I didn't mind that the tale rambled a little. Anyway, if you enjoy King, or in this instance Bachman, you'll probably like this.

Some of the stuff I didn't like, but I reminded myself that it is a horror novel with a monster in it, similar to IT, and I began to feel a little more at ease.

Final Thoughts

This is one of those novels if you appreciate Stephen King's writings that make you wonder where he got the idea from when you read them. It's fast-paced, gory, and you know you're reading one of his stories when you finish it.

I read this immediately after finishing "Desperation," which was an unbelievably good novel. The Regulators include some of the characters from Desperation, which I thought was a clever twist.

The first few chapters of The Regulators have you hooked and you won't be able to put it down. The plot twists, turns, and shocks are excellent.

While reading this, you were transported to an "other" universe. The author has a fantastic imagination, which he utilized to its full potential in this novel. You have the impression that you are actually on Poplar Street!!!

I like the parallel tale with the same people from Desperation as well as Tak, the same quack villain.

If you enjoy classic Stephen King stories, you'll enjoy this one. I read this after finishing Bag of Bones, and it made me melancholy. This is why I fell in love with The King.

I'm sure many people like the new King, which is also great. I like it as well, but keep the gore coming! The Regulators had enough of it, and as long as you don't take this narrative too seriously, I think you'll find it amusing, to say the least. "The Regulators" is a vivid, inventive, and nasty story.

Synopsis

“Master storyteller Stephen King presents the classic, terrifying New York Times bestseller of those caught between the surreal forces of good versus evil in a small suburban Ohio town.

“The red van rolls past…humming and glinting. …Things are happening fast now, although no one on Poplar Street realizes it yet.”

It’s a gorgeous midsummer afternoon along Poplar Street in the peaceful suburbia of Wentwort, Ohio, where life is as pleasant as you ever dreamed it could be. But that’s all about to end in blaze of gunfire and sudden violence, forever shattering the tranquility and the good times here. For the physical makeup of Poplar Street itself is now being transformed into a surreal landscape straight out of the active imagination of the innocent and vulnerable Seth Garin—an autistic boy who’s been exposed to and possessed by a horrific, otherworldly force of evil, one with sadistic and murderous intent and who is willing to use whatever means necessary to grow ever stronger.”

Useful Search Related Words & Keywords

Character Development, Dark Tower, Journal Entries, Many Characters, Pen Name, Power Rangers, Read Desperation, Takes Place, Years Ago

Rating: 90/100

Recommended: 100/100 Yes.

Buy the Kindle Version Here

Free With Free Audible Trial

https://rebrand.ly/The-Regulators-Audible

The Running Man (1987) (R)

The Dark Half (1993) (R)

The Green Mile (1999) (16+)

Salem’s Lot (1979) (G)

https://rebrand.ly/Salems-Lot-The-Miniseries-2004-NR

Salem’s Lot: The Miniseries (2004) (NR)

The Dark Tower 8 Book Boxed Set (Paperback)

https://rebrand.ly/Dark-Tower-8-Book-Boxed-Set-Paperback

The Dark Tower (2017) (PG-13)

Compare Kindle E-readers on one page

https://rebrand.ly/The-Running-Man-Kindle

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The Running Man Review

Stephen King, Richard Bachman, Action, Adventure, American, Dystopian, Fiction, Horror, Literature, Media Tie-In, Science Fiction, Survival, Suspense

The Running Man

Published: 1982

Author: Stephen King

Genre: Action, Adventure, American, Dystopian, Fiction, Horror, Literature, Media Tie-In, Science Fiction, Survival, Suspense

Check the summary of this book here:

The Running Man Summary

The Review

Stephen King's dystopian thriller novel The Running Man was initially released in 1982 as a paperback original under the alias Richard Bachman. It was included in the omnibus The Bachman Books in 1985. The story is set in the dystopian United States in 2025 when the country's economy is in shambles and global violence is on the rise.

The plot follows protagonist Ben Richards as he competes in the reality program The Running Man, in which participants are free to travel anywhere in the globe but are pursued by members of the public who can earn a large reward if they kill him.

Anyone who thinks Stephen King isn't a serious writer with anything to say about our times should sit down and read this book. This novel transcends all of his signature features, such as his ingenuity, the freshness of his writing, and the accessibility of his form.

There is true moral and cultural understanding here, as well as a genuine social awareness. It's a credit to how brilliant a writer he is that he can speak in this manner while conveying what is consistently a riveting, engrossing story. Both as a suspense story and as science fiction with a purpose, the novel succeeds.

The book is divided into 101 chapters and is organized in a "countdown" structure. The first chapter is named "Minus 100 and Counting...” with the numbers dropping until the last chapter is labeled "Minus 000 and Counting" or simply "000" in a few editions. The chapters are divided into the amount of time he has left, making you feel like you're racing against the clock as you read.

Stephen King takes the reader on a deadly search for survival by Richards and professional hunters, with every civilian posing as a potential game show snitch. Richards may be welcomed into the government machine if he is ready to sell his soul to those who want him dead in this gripping drama.

The book differs from the screenplay for the film of the same name; this Richards is an anti-hero who was shaped as much by society as by his rage at the gigantic colossus of a state.

In 1987, five years after the book's publication, The Running Man was loosely made into a film of the same name. Only the main premise of the violent program and a few names were kept in the adaption.

Richards was played by Arnold Schwarzenegger in the film. Later, the film was adapted into a video game that was distributed on a variety of home computer systems.

A new cinematic version of the novel is in the works, directed by Edgar Wright and written by Michael Bacall.

Both the book and the movie were fantastic in my opinion, despite the fact that they are only loosely connected.

So, if you've watched the movie but haven't read the book, do so and don't think about it while you're reading it, but you can envision Arnold Schwarzenegger as Richards while reading the book, and I'm sure you'll enjoy the book as much as you enjoyed the movie, even though they aren't the same.

One of Stephen King's masterpieces that is largely underappreciated. Most people, I believe, will overlook this since they have watched the film of the same name.

But that's where the resemblances end. The book is far superior to the film (as is customary!) The novel is a fast-paced thriller with a lot of action. It's one of those novels you don't want to end and can’t put down. It's such a quick read that you could easily finish it in one day.

This is why I enjoy Stephen King's work. He creates a character you care about in a dire circumstance, yet one that everyone can relate to. Then, over the following several hundred pages, he offers you every reason in the book why things aren't going well for your favorite character.

But you can't give up on your character; he's the one you want to succeed. So you continue to read. And, in the end, your person is incredible that he is, on top, the winner. That is why I enjoy Stephen King's work. Because the underdog always triumphs.

Without reading the inner cover, you can tell that this was a very early Stephen King work published under his Richard Bachman identity. It is nicely written and does meander a little, but there is no supernatural aspect for which the author is famous.

The book's concept is quite similar to the now-popular Hunger Games series. I realize it's only a concept, but it's the granddaddy of that series and many others.

Final Thoughts

The first time I saw the film was with my father, who enjoyed it as much as I did, and who believed that the authors must have created this character specifically for Arnold Schwarzenegger and that the film itself was made for him.

My father and I had no idea that the book's Richards was almost as tall as the movie version, but that was it when it came to the resemblance because he was underfed and only 165 pounds, whereas Arnold Schwarzenegger as Richards is a big guy with huge muscles because he's simply Arnold Schwarzenegger, but I still imagined him as Richards while reading the book.

We had seen the movie many times over the years, and I had grown up watching and rooting for Arnold Schwarzenegger portraying "The Butcher of Bakersfield" squaring off against hunters like Jesse The Body Ventura long before either was a governor, so I knew what to expect.

But I was pleasantly delighted to discover how unique the book was in so many ways. It's a fast-paced, exciting plot with a massively bigger scale than a typical action film from the 1980s. Naturally, Ben Richards seemed to have a strong Austrian accent as I read along.

It's not like the movie, which is one of my personal favorites. Who doesn't enjoy The Running Man? Finally, I finished the book. Obtaining this book gave a whole new and unique perspective.

It's like seeing a new version of The Running Man for the first time; it's just as good, maybe even better, yet it's not the same at all. And the finale was fantastic.

One of Stephen King's better books, in my opinion. I give it my highest recommendation.

Synopsis

“A desperate man attempts to win a reality TV game where the only objective is to stay alive in this #1 national bestseller from Stephen King, writing as Richard Bachman.

It was the ultimate death game in a nightmare future America. The year is 2025 and reality TV has grown to the point where people are willing to wager their lives for a chance at a billion-dollar jackpot. Ben Richards is desperate—he needs money to treat his daughter’s illness. His last chance is entering a game show called The Running Man where the goal is to avoid capture by Hunters who are employed to kill him. Surviving this month-long chase is another issue when everyone else on the planet is watching—and willing to turn him in for the reward.

Each night all Americans tune in to watch. So far, the record for survival is only eight days. Can Ben Richards beat the brutal odds, beat the rigged game, beat the entire savage system? He’s betting his life that he can…

With an introduction by Stephen King on “The Importance of Being Bachman,” The Running Man is a terrifying novel about the eternal fight of good versus evil.”

Useful Search Related Words & Keywords

Arnold Schwarzenegger, Bachman Books, Ben Richards, Fast Paced, Game Shows, Gives Away, Hunger Games, Long Walk, Main Character, Maria Conchita Alonso, Paul Michael Glaser, Yaphet Kotto

Rating: 90/100

Recommended: 100/100 Yes.

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The Running Man (1987) (R)

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If It Bleeds Review

Stephen King, American, Anthologies, Fiction, Horror, Literature, Short Stories, Supernatural, Suspense, Thriller

If It Bleeds

Published: 21, April 2020

Author: Stephen King

Genre: American, Anthologies, Fiction, Horror, Literature, Short Stories, Supernatural, Suspense, Thriller

Check the summary of this book here:

If It Bleeds Summary

The Review

If It Bleeds is a collection of four Stephen King stories that have never been published before. These stories or novellas are written in a variety of moods and styles, and each one is well worth reading. If It Bleeds, The Life of Chuck, Rat, and Mr. Harrigan's Phone are the titles of the stories in the book.

I noticed something new in the Stephen King books, and it's politics. I'm OK with it, but I'm concerned about the fans who are beginning to resent him for including politics in his stories.

It makes no difference whether he is telling the truth or not; people will believe what they want to believe. As a result, half of the readers are likely to agree with him, while the other half will constantly disagree.

For me, I'm in the center, and I just read these novels as fiction, even if something from real life is contained; I only think of it as fiction and entertainment, so I just read them for pleasure and to pass the time.

When reading books by any author, I recommend that all readers do the same and just have fun instead of thinking about real life, even if you read the name of a genuine person or a narrative about someone you know in real life.

Let's forget about reality and politics and focus on the four stories in this book.

Mr. Harrigan's phone is the first entry. The plot unfolds like a classic Tales from the Darkside episode or an old EC comic book. The author writes about a youngster who works part-time for an older guy in a tiny town.

Stephen King excels at writing about adolescents. He appears to have a thorough understanding of them. It's a melancholy coming-of-age ghost story told from the perspective of a first-person protagonist.

I'll also admit that I like first-person narratives, and several of my favorite Stephen King pieces, such as 11/22/63, Bag of Bones, and Revival, are written in this style.

The novel has the feel of vintage Stephen King, which is a phrase I hesitate to use since late in his career, the author has written some of his most riveting fiction, and it could easily be placed alongside Different Seasons or Four Past Midnight. This story was engrossing from beginning to end.

It's tightly wrapped and finishes with a button because it appears to be an amazing rebranding of Gwendy's Button Box.

I appreciated The Life Of Chuck, the second tale in the anthology, which was certainly my favorite.

What begins as an apocalyptic tale quickly transforms into one of author's most sincere and beautiful tales.

It discusses all of the possible worlds that we have in our heads. Based on what I've seen from many book clubs and Stephen King fans across all social media channels, I can see why The Life Of Chuck is everyone's favorite.

When Stephen King's writing becomes more literary, he usually produces a fantastic story. The story is told in three acts and in reverse order. It made me feel like it was 11/22/63, and it had an impact on my heart and spirit.

After some consideration, I believe it is also "my favorite" from this collection, despite the fact that saying so feels odd. This one was the most inventive, and I think it's the one I like best as a writer. It's inspiring to see author's ability to keep innovating after nearly 50 years.

The title tale, If It Bleeds, continues Stephen King's recent fascination in combining crime with the supernatural. It's a direct sequel to The Outsider, which was a brilliant novel in its own right and was masterfully adapted as an HBO limited series.

Stephen King brings back Holly Gibney from the Bill Hodges trilogy, and her character is one of my favorites. This chapter reintroduces a lot of her backstory from her time in Mr. Mercedes and The Outsider, as well as a number of old individuals, including my personal favorite, Jerome.

Overall, it was a thrilling and entertaining novel. Since her debut in Mr. Mercedes, Holly Gibney has split Stephen King fans, and I've always been in the pro-Holly side.

Perhaps it's because I see attributes in her that I see in some of my closest friends, and perhaps in myself, but I think it's largely because she is strong and resilient while yet displaying undeniable empathy.

Rat was also a favorite of mine. It had its moments and a few lines that I particularly enjoyed. It was a worthwhile read that kept my attention throughout.

It's about an author who goes on a self-imposed writing retreat to finish his first work but ends up making a bad bargain.

It is a retelling of the traditional Faustian story, which the author has addressed in a number of stories throughout the course of his career.

A tale called "Fair Extension" appears in his earlier novella collection, Full Dark, No Stars, and depicts a guy who displays no remorse for the disastrous deal he strikes.

In "Rat," the protagonist is unsure whether the agreement was fully accomplished, if he truly intended it, or if he is going insane. This is plainly Stephen King having a good time, and it's a pleasant, if slightly disconcerting, read.

Final Thoughts

In various ways, I enjoyed all four novellas. The Life of Chuck is a catastrophic story with a twist, while Mr. Harrigan's Phone is a great account of an odd relationship that lasts to the grave and beyond.

Rat is about creation and inspiration, and it's reminiscent of those old fairy stories about wishes fulfilled with unpleasant consequences.

If It Bleeds is the greatest of the four, since it stars Holly Gibney, Jerome Robinson, and Barbara Robinson, three characters that were originally featured in Stephen King's Bill Hodges trilogy of supernatural crime stories.

Gibney and the Robinsons are really likable characters who I am confident will return many times.

Any one of these four stories would be worth the full price of the book, so having them all in one compilation is a great steal and a one-of-a-kind gift.

This book really engulfed me in characters and an environment that I can perfectly picture and feel as if I were there.

Even from Stephen King, this collection of short narratives knits together in a way I've never seen before. If you haven't read his prior novel, The Outsider, you should do so before diving into this one. If you don't, you'll miss out on a significant portion of this intertwined short narrative. Amazing masterpiece by one of the greatest authors of all time.

All of the stories had a hint of the otherworldly, which I didn't mind at all. The book was a short read, and I would suggest it to both Stephen King aficionados and new readers who are considering giving him a try.

I relish any chance to learn more about Stephen King's writing process and perspectives. In most of his collections, we get a forward or an author's note, and If It Bleeds is no exception.

These four stories were a blast, and I can't wait to read them again soon.

Synopsis

“From #1 New York Times bestselling author, legendary storyteller, and master of short fiction Stephen King comes an extraordinary collection of four new and compelling novellas—Mr. Harrigan’s Phone, The Life of Chuck, Rat, and the title story If It Bleeds—each pulling you into intriguing and frightening places.

The novella is a form King has returned to over and over again in the course of his amazing career, and many have been made into iconic films, including “The Body” (Stand By Me) and “Rita Hayworth and Shawshank Redemption” (Shawshank Redemption). Like Four Past Midnight, Different Seasons, and most recently Full Dark, No Stars, If It Bleeds is a uniquely satisfying collection of longer short fiction by an incomparably gifted writer.”

Useful Search Related Words & Keywords

Bill Hodges, Collection Of Short, Harrigans Phone, Harringtons Phone, Highly Recommend, Hodges Trilogy, Holly Gibney, Life Of Chuck, Really Enjoyed, Sequel To The Outsider, Title Story

Rating: 90/100

Recommended: 90/100 Yes.

Buy the Kindle Version Here

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The Dark Half (1993) (R)

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https://rebrand.ly/Salems-Lot-The-Miniseries-2004-NR

Salem’s Lot: The Miniseries (2004) (NR)

The Dark Tower 8 Book Boxed Set (Paperback)

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The Dark Tower (2017) (PG-13)

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