by Stephen King
First published 1996
In the dusty Nevada town of Desperation, a maniacal sheriff preys on unsuspecting travelers. As his captives fight to escape, they uncover an ancient evil lurking beneath the town. Guided by a young boy who speaks to God, they must confront this demonic force before it destroys them all.
Genres: suspense, horror, supernatural, thriller
Vibes: atmospheric, dark, suspenseful
Tropes: chosen-one, good-vs-evil
Setting: Nevada, Desperation, China Pit, Interstate 50, New York City, Wentworth, Ohio, Lake Tahoe
Period: 20th century
624 pages · Paperback · Scribner
Content warnings: violence