Finders Keepers
by Stephen King
A stolen collection of notebooks containing an iconic author's unpublished work becomes the obsession of multiple people across decades, with deadly consequences.
Spoiler Warning
This review may contain spoilers. Read at your own discretion if you haven't finished the book yet.
The Power of Stories
Finders Keepers is the second book in the Bill Hodges trilogy, exploring the dangerous power of literary obsession.
The Story
In 1978, a deranged fan murders reclusive author John Rothstein and steals his cache of unpublished notebooks. Decades later, a teenager named Pete discovers the hidden notebooks and their contents change his life. Meanwhile, the original thief is released from prison and wants his treasure back. Bill Hodges and Holly Gibney find themselves pulled into the hunt.
What Works
Literary Love Letter
King clearly has strong feelings about obsessive fandom and authorship.
Pete Saubers
A sympathetic protagonist caught in an impossible situation.
Morris Bellamy
A terrifying portrait of toxic fandom taken to extremes.
Dual Timeline
Past and present weave together skillfully.
Holly Gibney
Her continued development is wonderful.
Considerations
Hodges Takes a Backseat
Less focus on the main trio than expected.
Slower Burn
Takes time to bring all storylines together.
Final Thoughts
Finders Keepers is a love letter to the power of fiction, wrapped in a tense thriller. The exploration of what stories mean to readers gives it unexpected depth.
Rating: 4.0/5
Best for: Book lovers, fans of Mr. Mercedes, and readers who appreciate meta-commentary on literature
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