This is exactly what I did. I refused to read it for years as though it's not the usual kind of plot I read and I'm not putting myself through a book that size that I wont enjoy. I read it for the first time last year and I was hooked from the start. Its absolutely one of my favourite all time books. I havent read East of Eden yet, its sitting on my 'must read' list and I keep avoiding it. I should have learned my lesson, I must read it soon.

Funny how pre-conceived expectations can end up being so different from the reality. Glad you gave the book a chance and fell in love with it yourself. Also, thanks for your recommendation; I picked up East of Eden from my local B&N yesterday. :-)