Stephen King’s Enthusiastic Endorsement of This Wild Thriller Book Highlights the Need for Its TV Adaptation

Among the noteworthy critiques of contemporary literature, Riley Sager’s 2019 thriller, Lock Every Door, stands out, particularly praising its suspenseful narrative. The plot revolves around Jules, a struggling woman who takes a job as a professional “apartment sitter”for affluent residents of the enigmatic Bartholomew apartment building. As Jules establishes a close friendship with fellow apartment sitter Ingrid, who bears a resemblance to her deceased sister, unsettling revelations begin to surface. Ingrid suggests that the Bartholomew conceals dark secrets, and after her sudden disappearance, Jules must confront the chilling realities hidden within the building’s walls. The book culminates in a shocking twist that elevates the entire reading experience.

Stephen King’s Endorsement of Lock Every Door by Riley Sager

A Gripping Page-Turner

Stephen King surrounded by open books — Image Credit: SR Image Editors

In Stephen King’s own words regarding Lock Every Door: “Looking for a suspense novel that will keep you up until way past midnight? Look no further than Lock Every Door, by Riley Sager.”This sentiment absolutely resonates. Sager’s gripping narrative quickly ascended to bestseller status upon its release in 2019, garnering acclaim for its chilling atmosphere and the rising tide of dread as Jules delves deeper into the Bartholomew’s enigma.

The setting of the Bartholomew itself contributes significantly to the novel’s eerie intensity, evolving into a character parallel to the infamous Overlook Hotel from King’s The Shining. Although it primarily fits within the mystery and psychological thriller genres, the unsettling tone imbues a subtle horror element that captivates readers. It’s the perfect thriller to lose oneself in, easily consumed in a single day if you dare not set it down.

The Unbelievable Premise of Lock Every Door: A Promising TV Adaptation

Themes Resonate with Today’s Societal Context

The excitement surrounding Lock Every Door is amplified by its adaptation into a television series by Paramount. Although initial plans were set five years ago and progress appears stagnant, the delays are not unusual in the current entertainment landscape, thanks to disruptions from the Covid pandemic and subsequent strikes faced by writers and actors. This is promising news; while all of Sager’s works are engaging, Lock Every Door stands out as the most suitable material for a compelling TV series, particularly in 2025.

Currently, mystery narratives are particularly popular, especially those incorporating bizarre twists, and Lock Every Door is no exception. Without revealing too much, the novel’s unexpected conclusion has elicited mixed reactions, yet it aligns perfectly with the appetite of TV audiences for unpredictable storytelling. Themes of the wealthy committing heinous acts while eluding accountability are increasingly relevant, echoing the sentiments of today’s viewers. The desire to see justice served is a narrative thread that resonates strongly due to ongoing societal discussions. Stephen King undoubtedly recognized the potential of this story five years ago, and one can only hope that the adaptation comes to fruition in the near future.

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