I loved it. To me it felt like a down-home return to form for some vintage 'townie' King. One of my recent faves.
Under the Dome is one of my favorites too. Big Jim Rennie is (IMO) King's scariest villain. Right up there with Rainbird from Firestarter.I think I'll read it again, then. The first time I was rushing through it because it was on a waiting list plus I found myself grimacing through the abundant Republican bashing. Now, I think I could overlook that. I will say it was a fun and exciting read. You're right about the return to his vintage roots.