This is the first book by Stephen King that I ever read back in the 1970's and I still feel that it is just about his best.

Picture a holocaust brought about by the escape of a lethal, otherwise secret, virus from a Military Laboratory. Only a few immune people survive, from all walks of life, good and bad in character. They all dream of a "dark man" who wishes to eradicate all forms of humanity except for his chosen. Some also dream of a "dark skinned woman" somewhere in the South who can help them and destroy the evil.

This is the story of both factions coming together and the ultimate "fight" between good and evil.

I cannot praise this book enough for its characters, descriptions (although for some they might be rather too gory at times) and the whole concept of the plot. The way that the pandemic is described and the people who survive is memorable. The "dark man" is very fearful and his associates also.

The characters all have their own distinct personalities and are believable, to the extent that you become carried away by their stories. Each person compliments the next. The plot is superb and moves at a rapid pace which you are unable to put down. It leads to a lot of late night reading!

The ending is the only criticism I can make... It comes too soon!!!!