A review by irina_sky
The Outsider by Stephen King

dark mysterious sad tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

3.5

The Outsider by Stephen King offers a compelling mix of mystery and horror, drawing readers into a chilling narrative. I appreciated the character descriptions. King excels in creating vivid, relatable characters that enhance the story's emotional depth. The last part of the story was particularly satisfying, providing a thrilling conclusion that tied up loose ends effectively. 

(UNpopular opinion) However, I felt that much of the narrative lacked the excitement I hoped for, with slower pacing that occasionally dulled the tension.(for me, at least) The pacing slowed significantly after the initial setup, leading to a drawn-out second half that diminished the suspense built earlier. 

Overall, while "The Outsider" showcases King's talent for character development and culminates in an impressive conclusion, it suffers from a sluggish middle that keeps it from being a standout in his oeuvre. I would rate it 3.5 stars.