I hadn’t been able to make it to the last two meetings of my mystery book group due to schedule conflicts so I was definitely looking forward to the discussion last week. We met to discuss Mr. Mercedes by Stephen King. Aside from discussing the story, which we all thought was engaging although not necessarily a mystery, we also talked about King’s writing style and books. I’ve read some of his earlier works, like Cujo, Pet Sematary, etc. but after I read The Tommyknockers I stopped reading King.
So my overall thoughts on Mr. Mercedes were that it had good pacing, a good set up and a couple of characters I quite liked. But, there were a couple of scenes that I just found disturbing. I guess I would recommend this if you are a Stephen King fan. If you like more cozy type mysteries you’ve been warned. Would I pick up another of his books. Sure, and while I hope it doesn’t take me 20 years to do so again, I don’t think I’ll be running out anytime soon for another one.
Next month we’ll be reading The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins. I just ordered this one because I looked on my libraries website and there are 96 holds on that book. Yikes. I know this is the book of the moment and I’m afraid I’m already feeling a bit negative about it. Hopefully it won’t disappoint. Now the book I’m really looking forward to reading is Sidney Chambers and the Shadow of Death by James Runcie. That is our September choice.
So now to move on to a true mystery, I picked up The Ghost Fields by Elly Griffiths. I’m getting closer to the end and as usual Elly Griffiths does not disappoint. What about you, what mysteries are you reading?
Wow on the 96 holds. But it sounds great. Enjoy it.
I’ve bee thinking about reading Mr. Mercedes ever since it won an Edgar. Who would have thought it? Stephen King and an Edgar. Will be interested in what you think about The Girl On The Train. Not surprised there are that many holds. It’s certainly been the ‘it’ book for a while. And I’ll also be interested in hearing what you think about the Granchester book. I’ve been thinking about reading that series.
I’m really curious about The Ghost Fields and will be anxious to hear your final thoughts on it. I haven’t read too many Stephen King books–enough to know he’s a good storyteller and has a very approachable writing style. His books have been hit and miss with me overall. I want to love his work, but he doesn’t exactly write the types of books I am drawn to.
I’ve been enjoying the audio version of Girl on the Train, although I admit I am kind of wondering when it will end–it feels like it’s going on and on. Of course, that could be me because I’m such a slow audiobook listener.
The Girl on The Train kept me turning pages almost frantically; I was very swept up in the story. I found it better than Gone Girl by far, yet I must say I was disappointed with both of the endings. I wish I could be at your discussion for The Girl on The Train…and, I suspect we’re members of the same library. Ours never has what I want, or if I do find a book in its system there are 9,000 holds on it. As you mentioned. 😉
I haven’t read a King book in a long while. His books are usually a hit or miss to me. That said, I’ve one or two of his books on my shelf and I’m waiting for the mood to strike.
I thought The Girl on the Train was a good psychological thriller. A page-turner but I felt the ending was a bit let down but still, I enjoyed reading it.
I’m looking forward to hearing your thoughts on The Ghost Fields. Sounds interesting!
Oh, I’m interested in the James Runcie book–I may be in the mood for a good cozy!
Hi Iliana. That sounds like a fun book group. I’m a big King fan and want to read Mr. Mercedes eventually. If I just read his books, I’d be busy for quite a while. He has written so many. I’m actually reading 11/22/63 right now and at about 300 pages in or so.
I’ve heard nothing but good things about The Girl on the Train, enjoy! Hope you are having a nice summer 🙂
The holds list for Girl on the Train hasn’t dwindled at all since the book was released! I just checked and found there are only three people ahead of me right now – I reserved it ages ago!
Haven’t read any Stephen King books yet though I keep meaning to. Maybe someday.