'Salem's Lot - Review/Critique

So I finally read my first Steven King novel. I've always heard great things about this books, so I've been meaning to read one. 

First off let me tell you the book I read: 'Salem's Lot. It was his second novel that he published. It was recommended by a friend and the reviews on the back made it sound really intriguing. 

No offense to the people that love this book but I just could not get into it. I had a hard time getting pulled into the book. I found that it was way too wordy. By that I mean that he had too much description. Granted I know that description is great but too much is hard to keep your reader intrigued. There were certain parts where he would describe the routine of the town and people in it or of their customs. (Again I know that this is good but I felt there was too much and that some of it could have been left out without hurting the story.)

I will admit that there were some parts that were really good. Those parts are the only reason I finished the book. I did want to know what happened at the end but at times I felt that it was not worth the effort to read what happened in between. 

I have often thought about his books because I love the mysterious and scary aspect that I have always heard about. However, 'Salem's Lot did not live up to the reputation that this author has. I am not sure if it is because it was only his second novel or if this is truly how his stories are written. If the latter is the case, then I cannot see myself reading more of his novels.  

My finally comments are to everybody out there that have read this book or others by Steven King. Did you like this one? Would you recommend a different book for a better experience? 

I look forward to hearing your responses. I would love to know any book recommendations that anybody might have. I love all kinds of books and I'm always looking for a good read!