Holly by Stephen King

*** Review ***

Stephen King’s latest offering, Holly, is a gripping and chilling addition to his repertoire, featuring the resilient and resourceful Holly Gibney in a spine-tingling narrative. The story unfolds in the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic, weaving a tale that is both horrifyingly supernatural and deeply rooted in the realities of our time.

The novel marks Holly Gibney’s triumphant return as the lead protagonist, a character who has undergone a remarkable evolution since her introduction in Mr. Mercedes. In Holly, she stands alone against a pair of wicked adversaries in a small midwestern town, grappling with personal losses, the specter of a pandemic, and an unsettling mystery.

The narrative kicks off with Penny Dahl desperately seeking Holly’s help to locate her missing daughter. Holly, grappling with personal turmoil including the recent death of her mother and her partner Pete’s battle with Covid, is initially hesitant. However, something in Penny’s voice compels her to take on the case, setting the stage for a series of gruesome discoveries.

The antagonists, Professors Rodney and Emily Harris, present a facade of respectability as retired academics, but their well-kept home harbors a sinister secret. King masterfully crafts the suspense, making it nearly impossible for Holly to unravel the depraved truth. The novel delves into themes of aging, death, and the unexpected faces of evil, culminating in a dark and twisted climax.

As a reader who skipped a few installments in the Holly Gibney series, Holly proves accessible as a stand-alone novel. The year 2021, marked by the pandemic’s grip, adds a layer of realism to the narrative, with Holly’s partner Pete dealing with Covid despite being vaccinated, and her mother succumbing to the virus due to vaccine refusal.

The characters, especially the elderly professors, are classic King villains — cunning, patient, and ruthlessly twisted. King’s ability to create a sense of horror is palpable, and there were moments when the narrative left me genuinely grossed out. The contrast between the cozy mystery and the unsettling horror elements is a testament to King’s storytelling versatility.

Holly Gibney emerges as a captivating main character, her strength and resourcefulness shining through as she navigates the bizarre and horrifying events following her mother’s passing. Her journey, post-tragedy, is a testament to King’s skill in portraying complex emotions and personal growth amid a dark investigation.

The novel’s underlying theme of grief adds depth to the narrative. King peels back the layers of Holly’s character, providing insights into her backstory and evolution. Familiar faces like Jerome and Barbara make appearances, contributing to the narrative’s richness and catering to fans of the series.

The culmination of the narrative crescends into a truly fantastic climax, marked by the emergence of pure evil antagonists and Holly’s extraordinary adeptness in navigating and resolving the tense situation. The concluding moments serve as a testament to the remarkable growth and unwavering strength exhibited by Holly’s character throughout the story. The precision and authenticity of the ending mirror the nuanced development of Holly, providing readers with a deeply satisfying resolution and leaving them eagerly anticipating the prospect of delving further into her future adventures.

Addressing the inclusion of real-world elements, such as Covid-19, politics, and other sensitive topics, King’s integration is seamless, enhancing the narrative rather than detracting from it. The trigger warnings provided are a necessary heads-up for readers, preparing them for the unsettling journey ahead.

For those critical of the political references, it’s important to recognize King’s consistent incorporation of real-world issues in his fiction. Holly stands as a testament to this approach, blending crime-mystery and horror genres seamlessly while providing a commentary on contemporary issues.

While some may find the frequent mention of Covid and related topics distracting, it serves as a reflection of the times and adds a layer of authenticity to the narrative. King’s personal opinions, though subtly woven into the story, don’t overshadow the thriller and mystery elements that make his novels gripping.

In conclusion, Holly is a standout crime-horror novel that combines the best elements of both genres. King’s storytelling prowess, coupled with the enigmatic Holly Gibney, creates an enthralling experience. Despite the divisive real-world references, the novel’s depth, suspense, and horror make it a must-read for fans of the genre. As a fan, I’m left hoping for more of Holly’s adventures in the years to come. Highly recommended for those who crave a dark and masterfully crafted narrative.