40 pages 1 hour read

Stephen King

Dolores Claiborne

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1992

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

Dolores Claiborne recounts the life of Dolores, a housekeeper for the wealthy Vera Donovan, and her tumultuous experiences with an abusive husband whom she eventually kills, framed within a police interrogation regarding Vera’s death. This psychological thriller by Stephen King explores themes of revenge, family, and the resilient bonds between women. The story includes depictions of sexual and physical abuse, as well as alcohol abuse, racism, incest, and violence.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Dolores Claiborne by Stephen King is a gripping psychological thriller praised for its strong characterization and unique narrative style. Critics commend King's ability to delve into the complexities of the protagonist. However, some find the dialect-heavy writing challenging. Overall, it's a compelling read with minor pacing issues.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Dolores Claiborne?

A reader who would enjoy Dolores Claiborne by Stephen King is likely to appreciate psychological thrillers with strong character development and a suspenseful narrative. Fans of Gillian Flynn's Gone Girl or Paula Hawkins' The Girl on the Train will find the intricate plot and compelling storytelling appealing.

RecommendedReading Age

18+years

Lexile Level

1150L

Book Details

Genre

Horror / Thriller / Suspense Fiction

Mystery / Crime Fiction

Psychological Fiction

Themes

Relationships: Marriage

Society: Class

Identity: Gender

Topics

Trauma / Abuse / Violence