'If you read only one novel this Summer, make it this one' (Daily Mail). THE OUTSIDER is a compelling and chilling suspense novel, which will delight all readers of King's crime thrillers, including the Hodges trilogy.
Holly Gibney Series
The series follows investigator Holly Gibney, who evolves from an unassuming helper into a tough, meticulous, and unyielding professional. In ordinary American towns (such as Flint City), she uncovers crimes that look rational on the surface but carry a darker, hard-to-explain underside. King builds suspense through small details, witness accounts, and Holly’s ability to endure where others back off. It’s a blend of crime and horror about how easily the “normal” world can fracture—and how costly the truth can be.
Recommended Reading Order
News people have a saying: 'If it bleeds, it leads'. And a bomb at Albert Macready Middle School is guaranteed to lead any bulletin. Holly Gibney of the Finders Keepers detective agency is working on the case of a missing dog - and on her own need to be more assertive - when she sees the footage on TV. But when she tunes in again, to the late-night report, she realises something is not quite right about the correspondent who was first on the scene. So begins 'If It Bleeds', a stand-alone sequel to the No. 1 bestselling THE OUTSIDER featuring the incomparable Holly on her first solo case - and also the riveting title story in Stephen King's brilliant new collection. Dancing alongside are three more wonderful long stories from this 'formidably versatile author' (The Sunday Times) - 'Mr Harrigan's Phone', 'The Life of Chuck' and 'Rat'. All four display the richness of King's storytelling with grace, humour, horror and breathtaking suspense. A fascinating Author's Note gives us a wonderful insight into the origin of each story and the writer's unparalleled imagination.
Holly Gibney, one of Stephen King’s most compelling characters, returns to solve the gruesome truth behind multiple disappearances in a midwestern town. Having evolved from a shy recluse to a savvy private detective, Holly now faces a daunting challenge alone. When Penny Dahl reaches out to the Finders Keepers detective agency for help in locating her missing daughter, Holly is hesitant. With her partner Pete sidelined by Covid and her complicated family situation weighing on her, she contemplates taking a leave. However, Penny’s desperate plea compels her to accept the case. Just blocks from where Bonnie Dahl vanished, Professors Rodney and Emily Harris appear to be the epitome of respectable, devoted octogenarians. Yet, beneath their polished exterior lies a dark secret hidden in the basement of their book-lined home, potentially linked to Bonnie’s disappearance. The professors are cunning, patient, and ruthless, making it nearly impossible for Holly to uncover their sinister activities. To confront these twisted adversaries, Holly must harness all her formidable skills in this chilling new masterwork from King.