This is the fifth in a series of reviews of books read while under the California Stay-at-Home Order (which commenced March 20, 2020). 

I read this book the first week of lockdown, which made me feel a whole lot better. I mean, I might be stuck inside, but I’m not as bad off as Paul! 

The book begins with a shock. I was so surprised by the severity of the first event, but it did a wonderful job setting the tone for the rest of the novel. 

I spent a huge amount of time reading and grimacing. The first few times I made the face, my daughter looked at me concerned and asked if I was okay. After a few times, she’d look at me and say, “Oh, right, the book.” Every time I thought I’d hit the worst part, something new and grotesque happened. 

I hate horror films, but can enjoy horror novels; my husband is the other way around. It was interesting to compare the events of the film to the novel. As I described the scenes, my husband looked horrified. Apparently the book takes things way further than the movie is able. The only negative (for me) were the “Misery” chapters – I don’t feel like they added anything to the plot. 

I highly recommend Misery to anyone who enjoys the creepy-crawly feeling off having their stomach flip. 

*Spoilers* Personally, the scene with the police officer and the lawnmower really stuck with me. That, and the thumb birthday candle. *shivers* Okay, had to get that out of my system

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Find Misery by Stephen King on Amazon