Anyone who knows me, knows I am a huge fan of Stephen King. As such, I’ve reviewed every book of his that I’ve read. I haven’t loved every one. I have found value in every one. That being said, “Never Flinch” is not one of my favorites.

The primary characters in this tale of suspense don’t pop off the page as many of his other characters have. This is particularly apparent because three of the characters have been featured in earlier King tales. Holly Gibney was a vibrant character alongside Bill Hodges in the Mr. Mercedes trilogy. Quirky, anxiety ridden, and socially awkward, she was a delight as she navigated her way through situations that challenged her.

While much of Holly’s character was less engaging in the two novels and one novella that followed, her persona lacks the degree of intensity as those earlier stories.

Two other characters making repeat appearances are Jerome and Barbara Robinson. While their sibling relationship in the early books is clearly defined, it lacks substance in “Never Flinch”. Watching each one step away from careers they both loved to become enmeshed in two distinct crime sprees just doesn’t gel for me. In addition, Holly’s decision to take on a role as a bodyguard seems far out of her comfort zone. Granted, she’s matured a lot. She’s accomplished things she would never have imagined. This final step and her behavior is almost like reading about a different character.

“Never Flinch” has good bones. Slow at the beginning, it does pick up momentum in later chapters. The antagonists have a significant measure of hope. Their motivations could be more pronounced. In fact, this could have been two books. They each have a fascinating story to share.

I’ve read other reviews of the book on Amazon. Several are disturbed by King airing his political views through the mouths of his characters. That is one thing I appreciate. By doing this he elevates his story to the level of Charles Dickens and other authors who have captured the mood of the times in which their stories take place. To appreciate some stories the lodestone of historical significance gives the reader a better sense of the world where the action takes place.