The Outsider by Stephen King

From the Back Cover

“An eleven-year-old boy’s violated corpse is found in a town park. Eyewitnesses and fingerprints point unmistakably to one of Flint City’s most popular citizens. He is Terry Maitland, Little League coach, English teacher, husband, and father of two girls. Detective Ralph Anderson, whose son Maitland once coached, orders a quick and very public arrest. Maitland has an alibi, but Anderson and the district attorney soon add DNA evidence to go with the fingerprints and witnesses. Their case seems ironclad.

As the investigation expands and horrifying answers begin to emerge, King’s propulsive story kicks into high gear, generating strong tension and almost unbearable suspense. Terry Maitland seems like a nice guy, but is he wearing another face? When the answer comes, it will shock you as only Stephen King can.”

My Thoughts

Stephen King never ceases to amaze me with his story-telling mastery. The Outsider is tightly plotted with deeply layered characters. There is, of course, an element of horror in the book. However, the first half is an intriguing mystery which will have you wondering who committed the horrific crime.

If you’re squeamish, this isn’t the book for you. But if you’re a King fan or can handle dark suspense, you won’t be disappointed.

BTW – I listened to the audio version of the book. The reader was Will Patton and he was excellent.