'Salem's Lot

by Stephen King
'Salem's Lot cover
Good Books rating 3.81
Horror
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Paperback • £12.99 Hardback • £20.00
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Technical
  • ID: 7597
  • Added: 2025-12-16
  • Updated: 2026-02-03
  • ISBN: 9798217007134
  • Publisher: Random House
  • Published: 2024-12-24
  • Formats: 2
  • Reviews: 4

Ben Mears, a writer seeking inspiration, returns to Jerusalem’s Lot, a small New England town, to explore the history of the Marsten House. His hopes for a peaceful retreat are shattered when two young boys venture into the woods, and only one returns alive. Mears begins to uncover a sinister presence that threatens the entire town. /n/n With his second novel, Stephen King masterfully blends classic horror elements with a contemporary setting, creating a terrifying narrative that transcends traditional horror tropes. The story delves into the psychological and emotional turmoil of the characters as they face an unimaginable evil.

Reviews
Reddit - r/horrorlit · u/unknown · 2026-01-15
great 4.00

The book is praised for its beautiful job of building tension and dread throughout its slow start. It is considered one of King's favorites.

This Reddit user highly recommends 'Salem's Lot, particularly for its ability to build tension and dread effectively. They acknowledge that the beginning is slow, but the payoff is worth it. The reviewer appreciates the way King develops the characters and the atmosphere of the town, making it a compelling read. The horror elements are well-executed, and the reviewer finds it to be one of King's best works. The discussion in the comments section also highlights the book's strengths and the various interpretations readers have of its themes and characters.

Quick quotes

    It does a really beautiful job of building tension and dread throughout the (admittedly) slow beginning.

    One of my faves from King.

    The atmosphere and character development make it a compelling read.

Fantasy Faction · 2025-12-16
excellent 4.00

The pacing is excellent, building tension gradually until the bleak conclusion. Certain scenes are particularly memorable and chilling.

This reviewer praises the pacing of the novel, noting how King masterfully increases the tension throughout the story. They highlight specific scenes that are particularly effective in creating a sense of dread and unease. The bleak conclusion is mentioned as a standout feature, leaving a lasting impression. Overall, the review suggests that the novel is a gripping and atmospheric read, with moments that stay with the reader long after finishing.

Quick quotes

    The pacing of 'Salem's Lot is very good indeed, and King skilfully increases the tension notch by notch until the bleak conclusion.

    Certain scenes, including a particularly chilling moment, are sure to stick with readers.

    King's ability to build atmosphere and dread is on full display in this novel.

Not Sarah Connor Writes · 2024-10-11
compelling 3.75

It's a slow burn story about a town and its people, focusing on the evil that comes to it. The novel is more about the town and its residents than just a vampire story.

This reviewer highlights that 'Salem's Lot is not just a typical vampire novel but a slow-burning story about a town and its people. They appreciate the focus on the town and its residents, which adds depth to the narrative. The reviewer notes that the evil that comes to the town is a central theme, making the story more about the community's response to the threat than just a vampire tale. This perspective adds a unique layer to the novel, making it a compelling read for those interested in character-driven horror.

Quick quotes

    But 'Salem's Lot isn't a vampire novel for the whole book. It's a slow burn of a story about a town, it's people, and the evil that comes to it.

    The novel is more about the town and its residents than just a vampire story.

    The focus on the town and its residents adds depth to the narrative.

The Guardian · 2012-06-11
entertaining 3.50

While not the greatest vampire novel ever written, it provides a lot of entertainment. The story is engaging and keeps the reader invested.

The reviewer acknowledges that while 'Salem's Lot may not be the greatest vampire novel, it certainly delivers a lot of entertainment. They appreciate the engaging nature of the story, which keeps the reader invested from start to finish. The review suggests that the novel is a fun and thrilling read, with elements that make it stand out in the vampire genre. The reviewer's enthusiasm for the book is evident, making it a compelling recommendation for fans of horror and vampire stories.

Quick quotes

    You care. I can't reasonably claim this is the greatest vampire novel ever written, but it certainly provides the most outright entertainment.

    The story is engaging and keeps the reader invested.

    It's a fun and thrilling read with elements that make it stand out.

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