Cell

by Stephen King
Cell cover
Good Books rating 3.5
Dystopian/Post-Apocalyptic
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Paperback • £10.99
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  • ID: 4963
  • Added: 2025-10-22
  • Updated: 2025-10-24
  • ISBN: 9781501122248
  • Publisher: Simon and Schuster
  • Published: 2016-06-21
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

In 'Cell,' a sudden and inexplicable pulse from an unknown source transforms all cell phone users into homicidal maniacs, plunging the world into chaos. Only a small group of people who were not using their phones at the time of the pulse, known as 'normies,' are left to navigate the deadly new world and find a way to stop the rampage. /n/n The novel explores the terrifying consequences of technology gone awry and the struggle for survival in a world where communication devices have turned against their users. As the 'normies' band together, they must uncover the source of the pulse and find a way to reverse its effects before it's too late.

Reviews
Booklytical · 2024-02-07
disappointing 2.00

The story felt lacking compared to other works by King, leaving the reviewer disappointed and uninterested in finishing it. The pacing and character development were not up to par.

This reviewer was quite disappointed with 'Cell', finding it lacking in comparison to other works by Stephen King. They felt that the story was not engaging enough and struggled to finish it. The pacing was slow, and the character development was not as strong as in King's other novels. They found the premise interesting but felt that the execution fell short of expectations, making it a less satisfying read overall.

Quick quotes

    Compared to King's other works I've enjoyed, the story felt somewhat lacking, leaving me disappointed and uninterested in even finishing it.

    The pacing was slow, and the character development was not as strong as in King's other novels.

    The premise was interesting, but the execution fell short of expectations.

ScienceFiction.com · 2020-11-06
thrilling 4.00

The book is engaging and provides a lot of content for its length, though it may not be as expansive as some of King's other works. The pacing and action keep the reader hooked.

This reviewer found 'Cell' to be a solid read that doesn't disappoint in terms of action and suspense. They appreciate that, despite not being one of King's longest works, it still packs a punch. The characters are well-developed, and the new world they inhabit is both scary and intriguing. However, they note that it might not reach the same level of depth as some of King's more monumental works. Overall, it's a thrilling ride that fans of King's style will enjoy.

Quick quotes

    While not as monstrously-huge as many of King's written works, at 355 pages 'Cell' still gives the reader plenty of bang for its buck.

    The pacing is fast, and the action is relentless, making it a quick and engaging read.

    The characters are solid, and the new world that they are in is scary and hard to determine.

The Independent · Alan Parker · 2006-02-12
gripping 4.50

The ending is devastating and ranks among King's most frightening conclusions. The story is gripping and keeps the reader on the edge of their seat.

Alan Parker highlights the devastating ending of 'Cell', comparing it to some of King's most chilling conclusions. They found the story to be gripping and intense, with a level of suspense that keeps the reader engaged throughout. The characters and their struggles are portrayed in a way that makes the reader deeply invested in the outcome. Parker praises King's ability to create a sense of dread and uncertainty that lingers long after the last page.

Quick quotes

    Cell has a devastating ending that is as good as his most frightening conclusion to date: that of Pet Sematary.

    The story is gripping and keeps the reader on the edge of their seat.

    The characters and their struggles are portrayed in a way that makes the reader deeply invested in the outcome.

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