Holly by Stephen King
Read Time:3 Minute, 40 Second
When Penny Dahl seeks Finders Keepers detective agency’s help to find her missing daughter, Holly hesitates due to personal challenges. Her partner is battling Covid, her mother just passed away, and she’s supposed to be on leave. However, Penny’s desperation compels Holly to take the case. Nearby, Professors Rodney and Emily Harris appear to be a typical elderly couple, but they hide a sinister secret linked to Bonnie’s disappearance. Uncovering their malevolent plot becomes a daunting task for Holly, as the cunning and ruthless professors test her formidable skills in Stephen King’s chilling new masterpiece.
Book review of Holly
Before delving into my review of Stephen King’s latest novel, “Holly,” it’s crucial to highlight some trigger warnings for potential readers. The story touches on sensitive topics such as homophobia, the COVID-19 pandemic, cannibalism, politics, racism, sexual harassment, rape, abortion, cancer, Alzheimer’s Disease, and school shootings. If any of these themes are triggering for you, it might be best to steer clear of this book.
Now, onto the book itself. Stephen King, now in his mid-70s, continues to produce high-quality novels, a testament to his enduring talent. Despite any personal reservations about his political views and COVID-related themes, King’s impact on the horror genre is undeniable. He’s been crafting captivating stories for over five decades, and his creative prowess remains undiminished.
As for the trigger warnings mentioned earlier, they didn’t detract from my enjoyment of the book. King skillfully weaves a multi-layered narrative filled with subtle references to pop culture, including nods to “The Princess Bride,” “Blood Red Sky,” “Freddy Krueger,” “Carrie,” and “The Haunting of Hill House.” These references added depth to the story, particularly for fans of King’s extensive body of work.
The novel’s introduction is a wild ride, with King injecting a grotesque twist that elicited a range of facial expressions from this reader. It was a joy to revisit Holly Gibney, a beloved character, and witness her character development. Exploring Holly’s backstory and her evolution was a highlight, providing a deeper understanding of her complex personality. Holly’s handling of grief, juxtaposed with her investigative endeavors, is both engrossing and relatable. It reminds us that even the strongest and most enigmatic individuals are not immune to the impact of loss.
The suspense in “Holly” is relentless, and King masterfully incorporates updates on Jerome and Barbara, offering a satisfying connection to his previous works. This underscores the importance of reading the five novels that precede “Holly” to fully appreciate the depth of the characters and their journeys.
The climax and ending are nothing short of fantastic, with formidable antagonists and a gratifying resolution that leaves readers cheering.
Final verdict
While some may find it polarizing due to its contemporary themes, “Holly” by Stephen King is a gripping, dark, and realistic tale. Holly’s evolution as a character is both impressive and relatable, making her one of King’s most memorable creations. This novel is a must-read for horror enthusiasts, as it offers a thought-provoking and chilling experience that will stay with you long after you’ve turned the final page.
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
 | Publisher : Scribner (September 5, 2023) Language : English Hardcover : 464 pages ISBN-10 : 1668016133 ISBN-13 : 978-1668016138 Item Weight : 1.48 pounds Dimensions : 6.13 x 1.7 x 9.25 inches |
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