This was an intense read. A mix of classic fairy tale and modern darkness, with a stalwart hero to lead the way. While it had truly horrific moments, the story was more deeply rooted myth and magic, good and evil, and the battle we all fight within. Not a quick read, but one with beautiful imagery, strong themes, and a robust cast of characters of all stripes. King‘s prose is really compelling, and his characters boldly drawn. Plus, the dog lives!