Revival by Stephen King

5 stars

But who is screenwriting our lives? Fate or coincidence?

 

Although Stephen King is a favourite in the heart of many readers, Revival is the first book I have read by him.

 

I plan to read more.

 

When Reverend Jacobs faces a life-altering obstacle, it changes him. He stops preaching religion and the word of God and invests his time in the alchemy of electricity.

 

Jacobs uses electricity to heal people of disease and sees his work as good, but by the time deadly side effects from his treatments are evident, it is too late to put an end to his alchemy — he is too infatuated.

 

I have never read writing quite like King’s. His description of events and characters are detailed and clear.

 

He effectively tells a story over 60 plus years yet it does not feel rushed.

 

He does a good job of starting and finishing each character’s story, even if they are supporting roles and writes in a way that evokes emotion — from fear, to humour, to sadness and frustration.

 

His writing makes you feel it all.

 

This is the most twisted, wicked novel I have read. The story was not scary but I do not want to get into detail because there are many surprising and disturbing elements – ones that gave me nightmares.

 

Do not read this book before bed.

 

Give yourself at least 30 free minutes before your head hits the pillow.

 

I recommend this novel for ages 16 plus who enjoy genres of suspense, horror and paranormal.

 

But writing is a wonderful and terrible thing. It opens deep wells of memory that were previously capped.