Holly

Bought as a gift for my wife as Stephen King is her favourite author. She loved the book being based around Holly, initially a secondary character from previous books. In true Stephen King style the story was fast paced, didn't disappoint and kept you wanting to go back for more.

Product came without any damage! I love this book so much!

Stephen King's "Holly" is a literary gem that masterfully weaves suspense into its narrative, keeping readers on the edge of their seats from start to finish. This novella not only showcases King's storytelling prowess but also exhibits a remarkable sense of pacing that contributes to the overall gripping experience. The suspense in "Holly" is palpable from the very beginning, drawing readers into a world of mystery and intrigue. King skillfully introduces and develops characters, gradually unraveling a plot that is as enigmatic as it is captivating. The air of tension is maintained throughout, creating a sense of anticipation that makes it difficult to put the book down. What sets "Holly" apart is its exceptional pacing. The narrative unfolds with a rhythmic cadence, carefully dosing out revelations and twists at just the right moments. The story progresses seamlessly, and each chapter leaves you hungry for more. King's ability to maintain this pace without sacrificing depth or nuance is a testament to his mastery of the craft. The novella's brevity doesn't compromise its impact; instead, it heightens the intensity, making every page count. King's prose is both engaging and evocative, immersing the reader in the world he has crafted. The characters are well-drawn, and their development contributes to the overall sense of urgency and suspense. In conclusion, "Holly" is a testament to Stephen King's ability to create a gripping narrative with an impeccable sense of pacing. If you're a fan of suspenseful tales that keep you guessing until the very end, "Holly" is a must-read. King once again proves why he is a master of the genre, delivering a novella that lingers in the mind long after the final page is turned.

I am fascinated to read this book after buying back on 2023 and kept it in my TBR for 2 years almost. No doubt with the plot being twisted and exciting just like King's signature style...it's creepy and insane.. Serial killings...yes you got it right! After conquering horror..he recently stepped into crime thrillers..and winning it

perfetto

It had been a few years since I had read a Stephen King book although I devoured them in my teenage years. This one had been getting good coverage so I thought I would try it. I admire that he is still writing novels after so many years. I hadn't realised that Holly Gibney had appeared in previous books but hoped it wouldn't matter (and it doesn't). This was first published in 2023. There are 429 pages with chapters labelled by their date, then each being split into smaller sections. Most of the action is in 2021 but we are frequently taken back to dates during the previous decade. There is a feeling of safety with Stephen King - he's an experienced author and every detail is perfect. I had expected more of a horror novel but was delighted that this book is firmly set in the crime genre. 2021 is a really interesting setting, socially and politically. The US is polarised by the rise of Donald Trump, splitting up friends and families. Covid is well established with a new strain threatening to escalate and differing personal reactions causing more divisions. Throw in some missing people and this book has great potential. There is a definite sense of stepping into Holly's life and having to catch up with her back story. The author makes sure throughout the book that any new reader gradually gets to understand Holly. The pandemic gives a background ripe for rumour and suspicion. Stephen King takes full advantage of the complete confusion that so many were experiencing at the time. Holly is at her mother's funeral when we first meet her - they had a complicated relationship and the reader is allowed to pick through it with Holly as she processes her grief. The descriptions of Holly's feelings about her smoking habit are particularly well written and must be from the author's own experience. I'm not a smoker but almost wanted a cigarette as I read about her complete enjoyment regardless of the negatives. There are two options with a crime novel - identify the perpetrators for the reader at the start then watch the investigator find them or allow the reader to work it out as the detective does. Here, we see the killers early on through a parallel timeline that gradually catches up with the present day (July 21). This creates a tension making the reader encourage Holly and celebrate with her as she gets close to solving the crimes. There is no doubt that Holly will be in danger at some point but you have to have faith that she can beat such a vulnerable couple - can't she??! I was really impressed with every element of this book and am going to buy a few more of the authors recent books. I took my time to read this and got the best out of the story. The ending was as I expected and I was screaming at Holly to call the police which shows my level of engagement. I've definitely got a renewed respect for Stephen King and was particularly interested to read his author's note.

Livre à couverture rigide bleue avec le nom de l'auteur et le titre sur la tranche. Autour de l'ouvrage, un papier qui donne exactement l'image de la description du livre à l'heure où j'écris ces mots. (EDIT : effectivement, King montre clairement ses couleurs politiques et son avis à propos du Covid mais peut-on reprocher à un auteur d'avoir son avis si son personnage lui-même en a un ?) Les histoires de Stephen King m'accrochent facilement mais celle-là... Deux jours pour un lecteur lent en étant trop souvent dérangé durant mes temps de lecture et j'ai trouvé que l'histoire était facile à reprendre. Le rythme est soutenu et va crescendo. A vous de juger et bonne lecture !