#10 – The Dark Half

Plot

Thad Beaumont is a writer, and for a dozen years he has secretly published violent bestsellers under the name of George Stark. But Thad is a healthier and happier man now, the father of infant twins, and starting to write as himself again. He no longer needs George Stark and so, with nationwide publicity, the pseudonym is retired. But George Stark won’t go willingly.

Review

The Dark Half was written by King in direct response to the findings that he was also Richard Bachman.  Not that King was trying to hide that fact, but after it was universally known, King released The Dark Half.

The premise is very dark – right up there with Pet Sematary – and one that would make for a difficult re-read.  What would happen if the pseudonym an author uses for selling novels manifests itself into a human form?  And what if that manifestation was angry when you stopped writing under that pseudonym? 

The comparisons between Bachman and George Stark (the pseudonym) are too numerous to name, but once the story started rolling, I forgot all about Bachman.  George Stark is dark, brutal, and unforgiving.  But he’s also made Thad Beaumont a great and respected author.  That duality adds to the complex character development that takes place in The Dark Half.

This novel also has some comparisons to The Outsider.  When George starts his murder spree, he leaves behind Thad’s fingerprints.  As a result, Thad becomes the prime suspect.  It takes multiple conversations with Sherriff Pangborn (a nice callback from Needful Things) to convince him otherwise.

In looking at my rankings, The Dark Half is the highest rated pure horror novel on this list.  It sits inside the Top Ten because of the intricate character development, the intense and dark plot, and the thrilling climax.  A fantastic read from start to finish.  

Details

Pages: 515

Dates Read: January – February 2021

Quote: “You’re dead, George. You just don’t have the sense to lie down.”

Best Part: My wife – who is terrified of birds – would not like the climax. On the other hand, I thought it was brilliant.

Hint for #9: Those with mental problems and are at risk to others, may be admitted here.

 

Until next time, peace be the journey.