Wolves of the Calla (2003) (edit title/settings)

• Rated 5 stars

“The fifth book in this series seems to divide fans. Many people found this to be a boring diversion from the main plot, but I think this is the best book in the series by far. A straightforward Western, the tet find themselves in Calla Bryn Sturgis, a small town whose occupants are plagued once per generation by horsemen they call the Wolves. During their raids, many children of the Calla are stolen and returned later "ruined" - their intelligence and memories stolen and their lifespans shortened by decades. Desperate to save their children, the people of the town turn to Roland and his tet for aid. Much of the book is devoted to their plans for the Wolves' invasion, although Father Callahan (from 'Salems Lot) and his backstory are also introduced. It's difficult for me to pinpoint exactly why I like this book best. Perhaps it is just my weakness for Westerns, but I think the story is a good one, perhaps one of the most tightly written I've ever read from King, and the character development is wonderful.”

• Rated 5 stars

“What a great book. It was a little slow to start, but I think mainly the setting of the story was the reason. The gunslingers show that they too are as competent as Roland, Cuthbert, and Alain were in Wizard and Glass. You get a similar feel - things just come together. It's just another stop on the way to the Tower, so enjoy the ride!”