The novel was nominated for several awards, including the Locus Award and Prêmio LeBlanc.

A nightmare descends upon the town of Flint, Oklahoma, where the violated body of an eleven-year-old boy is discovered, brutally murdered in the town park. An indescribable crime that shakes the local law enforcement to its core as the worst crime anyone there has ever witnessed. Equally astonishing is the identity of the prime suspect: Terry Maitland, one of Flint's most famous citizens, a Little League baseball coach, English teacher, husband, and devoted father.

Detective Ralph Anderson, who once coached Maitland's son, orders an extremely public and quick arrest. With multiple eyewitnesses and irrefutable evidence, their case seems airtight. Until the investigation broadens and new horrifying details begin to emerge.

Terry Maitland seems like a nice guy, but does he hide another face? When the truth is revealed, it will shock you as only Stephen King can weave.

The novel has been adapted into a miniseries produced by HBO starring Ben Mendelsohn.