When an eleven-year-old boy is found murdered in a town park, reliable eyewitnesses undeniably point to the town's popular Little League coach, Terry Maitland, as the culprit. DNA evidence and fingerprints confirm the crime was committed by this well-loved family man. Horrified by the brutal killing, Detective Ralph Anderson, whose own son was once coached by Maitland, orders the suspect to be arrested in a public spectacle. But Maitland has an alibi. And further research confirms he was indeed out of town that day. As Anderson and the District Attorney trace the clues, the investigation expands from Ohio to Texas. And as horrifying answers begin to emerge, so King's propulsive story of almost unbearable suspense kicks into high gear. Terry Maitland seems like a nice guy but there is one rock-hard fact, as unassailable as gravity: a man cannot be in two places at the same time. Can he?
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
If it bleeds
- 384 pages
- 14 hours of reading
The No.1 Sunday Times bestseller featuring the story 'The Life of Chuck', adapted for film by Mike Flanagan, starring Tom Hiddleston and winner of the People's Choice Award at the Toronto Film Festival. 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 there is something 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, a resourceful character from Stephen King's previous works, returns to confront the chilling truth behind multiple disappearances in a midwestern town. Initially a shy recluse, Holly has evolved into a savvy private detective. In this new narrative, she faces a daunting challenge alone when Penny Dahl reaches out to the Finders Keepers detective agency for help in locating her missing daughter. Despite her reluctance—due to her partner's illness, her mother's recent death, and her planned leave—Holly cannot ignore Penny's desperate plea. The investigation leads her to Professors Rodney and Emily Harris, seemingly respectable octogenarians living just blocks from where Bonnie Dahl vanished. However, beneath their polished exterior lies a dark secret hidden in their basement, potentially linked to the disappearance. The professors are cunning, patient, and ruthless, making it nearly impossible for Holly to uncover their sinister activities. As she delves deeper into the mystery, Holly must leverage all her skills to outsmart the twisted professors in this gripping tale, showcasing her determination and resilience in the face of evil.