James Patterson Decides To Scrap ‘The Murder of Stephen King’ Book

James Patterson has had second thoughts about publishing his new book, The Murder of Stephen King.

James Patterson Nixes Stephen King Book

Patterson’s The Murder of Stephen King, which he co-wrote with Derek Nikitas, will not be released on Nov. 1 as planned.

“My book is a positive portrayal of a fictional character, and, spoiler alert, the main character is not actually murdered,” Patterson said in a statement, explaining his decision. “Nevertheless, I do not want to cause Stephen King or his family any discomfort. Out of respect for them, I have decided not to publish The Murder of Stephen King.”

The plot of The Murder of Stephen King follows a character who is a Stephen King fanatic. The psychotic fan sets out to re-create murders from King’s horror books, and intends to culminate his mission by killing King himself.

James Patterson Bio: In His Own Words

Incidentally, while Patterson has claimed to be a fan of King’s work, King doesn’t think much of Patterson’s. In 2009, King called him a “a terrible writer” in an interview with the U.K. Guardian.

Replacing The Murder of Stephen King on the Nov. 1 release date will be Taking The Titanic, Patterson’s book about a band of thieves on the ill-fated ship.