Stephen King returns with “You Like It Darker,” a collection of twelve stories that delve into the shadowy recesses of the human psyche. This anthology explores themes of fate, mortality, luck, and the mysterious folds of reality where anything can happen. With a rating of 4.3 on Goodreads, it has garnered significant praise, though not without its criticisms.
The diversity in “You Like It Darker” is striking. Each story takes you on a unique journey into different facets of darkness. For instance, “Two Talented Bastids” uncovers the hidden origins of its protagonists’ extraordinary abilities, while “Danny Coughlin’s Bad Dream” turns a psychic flash into a cataclysmic event. The sequel to “Cujo,” “Rattlesnakes,” brings readers back to familiar territory with a fresh twist, and “The Dreamers” transports us to eerie corners of the universe through the eyes of a Vietnam vet.
The reception of this collection is mixed. The book opens with some weaker stories that feel more like PG-rated pseudo-thrillers rather than the gritty darkness expected from a title like “You Like It Darker.” The expectation of encountering the “old King” – the one who masterfully terrified us in his prime – is not fully met, as some stories exhibit a more subdued tone. Despite these criticisms, even the less impactful stories maintain a quality that keeps the collection above average.
King’s prowess in the short story format truly shines. He excels at delivering spine-chilling thrills in just a few pages. The stories are not just scary but also thought-provoking, lingering in the mind long after the last page is turned. His ability to create new, captivating tales within familiar settings is a testament to his mastery of the craft.
King proves he’s still a master of short fiction in his sterling seventh collection… This remarkably assured collection will thrill the author’s fans. —Publishers Weekly
However, there are issues with the physical production of the book. Thin pages with text bleed-through and awkward font choices for letters like “d” and “b” detract from the reading experience. Additionally, there are some sloppy editing oversights, including inconsistencies and anachronisms, which are uncharacteristic for a writer of King’s stature.
Despite these drawbacks, “You Like It Darker” remains a compelling read for fans of Stephen King and lovers of the horror genre. Each story offers a distinct flavor of darkness, from subtle psychological thrills to outright horror. While not every story hits the mark, the collection as a whole showcases King’s undiminished talent for storytelling. It is a testament to his enduring ability to captivate and unsettle his readers. Though some stories may not reach the heights of his most iconic works, the collection as a whole is a rich tapestry of dark tales that will satisfy long-time fans and newcomers alike. If you are looking to escape into the darker corners of the human experience, this anthology is well worth your time. Just be prepared for a few bumps along the way.
