Olathe Public Library- GoodReads Branch discussion

Granted, I listened to the audio versions of both these books. Even the audio version of these massive novels is intimidating, particularly for "Under the Dome" by Stephen King - 30 discs!
King fans aren't likely to be disappointed, although I wouldn't put this one on the classics list with books like "The Stand." The premise is intriguing...a entire town mysteriously trapped under a transparent dome, not unlike insects trapped in a jar for observation. Besides the climatic effects, the residents must deal with the evil that dwells among them. I would have liked more on the origins of the dome, but the drama was enough to keep me intrigued to the end. As with other King novels, expect a certain amount of gore and graphic violence. But then, Stephen King isn't an author likely to appeal to the squeamish.
A much gentler but more conflicted approach is "The Swan Thieves" by Elizabeth Kostova. Kostova had a best seller with her previous novel, "This Historian," another hefty read. This one is similar in length, and includes the fine characterizations and good writing of "The Historian," but no vampires this time around. Instead an acclaimed American artist struggling with an obsession, and the cast of characters around him who help tell his story. My favorite elements were there details of the painterly life of artists. It truly made me want to go buy brushes and paints and pursue my muse. "The Swan Thieves" would be a good one to recommend to those with an interest in art and art history.