Becca Reviews: The Outsider by Stephen King

I'll start this review by saying that I realised I had actually watched the TV series adaptations of this a few chapters in. Luckily for me (maybe) I have little to no memory of any film or TV series I have ever seen so the plot was not spoiled for me!

The story starts with the dramatic, unusual (as in not at all by the book) arrest of the beloved community member, Terry Maitland. Terry has lived in the area forever, coaches multiple youth sports teams and is known and loved by all. So, why were there several eyewitness statements claiming he was covered in blood after 'helping' a young boy, Frank Peterson, after his bike broke?

I will big try not to give away any spoilers!

This is a classic tale of your word against mine. In this case, it is first of all eyewitness statements against character witness statements, who would believe that loving family man Terry Maitland could commit such an atrocious crime (he was accused of brutally abusing and killing a young boy)? As the investigation continues Terry claims he wasn't even in town at the time of the murder, but how could he have been in two places at once? Now, that is the question.

This is the first Stephen King book I have read and I thoroughly enjoyed it! (Seems appropriate after visiting my friend in Maine back in May!) I initially wanted to read Holly but after some research, I learned that there were other books in the series (unofficial series) that I should read first. Now, this is SK we're talking about so of course it was a 'good book' right? Well, I've actually heard a lot of mixed reviews. Folks tend to lean towards enjoying some of his less popular novels. From what friends have said don't start with Misery or Carrie (he didn't even like this one at first!) but head for books like The Stand or the Bill Hodges/Holly Gibney series - which is exactly what I intend to do.

It seems menial to judge SK's writing BUT, although it was dialogue and detail-heavy the plot remained pacey and super captivating. Thinking about it there was a lot of to-ing and fro-ing but it never felt like it, the story always felt as though it was driving forward. I enjoyed the supernatural element, it was just enough that it remained believable - the universe IS a big place you know... The characters, of course, are the stars of the show, fully formed and very convincing, you just want to learn more and more about them. On the topic of horror, I think it was the spookiest book I've read because the horror felt so possible, so close and just believable enough. What is scarier a demon or ghost, or a man breaking into your house at 4 am (whilst all the doors are locked)? I know my answer.

Review coming soon for If It Bleeds!

Read: 04/01/2025

Published: 24/09/2024

ISBN: 9781501180989

Price: £10.11 (GBP)