Ben Mears has returned to Jerusalem’s Lot in hopes that exploring the history of the Marsten House, an old mansion long the subject of rumor and speculation, will help him cast out his personal devils and provide inspiration for his new book. But when two young boys venture into the woods, and only one returns alive, Mears begins to realize that something sinister is at work—in fact, his hometown … hometown is under siege from forces of darkness far beyond his imagination. And only he, with a small group of allies, can hope to contain the evil that is growing within the borders of this small New England town.
With this, his second novel, Stephen King established himself as an indisputable master of American horror, able to transform the old conceits of the genre into something fresh and all the more frightening for taking place in a familiar, idyllic locale.
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King’s first novel, and still one of his best.
My favorite book by S. King.
This was the first Stephen King Book I ever read. Haven’t stopped reading his books sonce
A tier, solid A. Amazing atmosphere. The mystery aspect kept you on your toes throughout most of the book. Could not put the book down. Incredible town development. Many chilling scenes that will stay with me.
one of my favorite Stephen King books
Disjointed and a disappointment.
Upon re-reading SALEM’S LOT for what has to be the 4th or 5th time, I have changed my mind on my initial review and rating. I always thought 4 Stars was more than enough, but as I get older, and as my experience with the world increases, I seem to be picking out a bit more of the terror that King spun throughout his story.
I first read the book when I was 12 years old. I locked my windows for weeks after. Today, I am 46 years old. And just as when I was 12, I still wanted to sleep with the lights on. That is the best way I can sum up my appreciation for the novel.
I’m 46 now and the book made sure that my inner 12 year old kept my bare foot from escaping the covers in the dead of night all over again. He’s not getting a lot of sleep lately, and I love it.
one of king’s best
I loved the read-to-easy style of this King novel, as opposed to some of his later works. It was self-contained and not of a larger, interdimensional scope. The characters were engaging and the story progressed in a way that you could figure from the start. A fun read for any fans of the genre!
one of the scariest books ever
just okay
My first Stephen King book I ever read and I am hooked.
Scary!!
Why is this, after almost half a century, still one of the finest vampire novels ever? I think it’s because (for me at least) it takes all the tropes of my childhood and makes them tangible. A profound influence on my own career.
Very scary book. I wouldn’t read it at night.
One of the scariest books I have ever read.
I read this book in when it came out in 1975. I still feel it is one of the best horror stories written. “Salem’s Lot” and “The Shining”. Classic must read horror stories!
For me, the first third of the book, bored me. After that, it ramped up and was very good. Straker freaked me out.
I’m reading Salem’s Lot for the third time, and I’m sucked in once again. If you like horror, you will like this book.
Another Amazing read by the awesome Mr.King I never get tired of reading his books! this is another page-turning must-read book!