A review by chapters_and_pages
Misery by Stephen King

challenging dark tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? No
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

My god, I mean this in the best way possible, but Stephen King is a twisted, twisted man… 😅

Paul Sheldon is a successful author and has finally finished the series that made him famous. Now he’s looking forward to doing some real writing. With a finished manuscript, Paul sets off on what he assumes will be a normal car journey. He couldn’t be more wrong. The next thing Paul knows, he’s in a strange room, with catastrophic injuries, rescued by Annie Wilkes. The good news? Annie is a nurse and has the medical knowledge and equipment Paul needs. The bad news? Annie is Paul’s biggest fan, and she’s not happy about the ending of his latest book…

This book is honestly a mindfuck… the way Stephen King is able to write these complex and evil characters so convincingly is just mind blowing, honestly. 

This book primarily features just two characters and in some cases, that could result in the book being a little boring but Paul and Annie were both so interesting and crazy to read about. From Annie’s abusive and torturous behaviour, to Paul somehow finding the strength and resilience to endure his months of agony, it honestly messes with your head. 

Overall, this isn’t a book I can necessarily say I enjoyed, just based on the subject matter, but I couldn’t put it down  and would highly recommend if you’re looking for something to make you question the state of humanity… 😅
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