Ranking All 6 Appearances of Holly Gibney in Stephen King Novels

Holly Gibney, the intriguing character created by Stephen King, has graced the pages of six different novels, with the highly anticipated seventh, Never Flinch, set to release in 2025. Dubbed as an anti-Randall Flagg, Holly has emerged as a steadfast force for good throughout King’s expansive universe. Although opinions on her character vary among fans, King’s affection for her is evident, as she has become a pivotal part of his storytelling.

Publication History of Holly Gibney

Title	Release Date
mr. Mercedes	August 9, 2014
Finders Keepers	June 2, 2015
End of Watch	June 7, 2016
The Outsider	January 12, 2020
If It Bleeds	April 21, 2020
Holly	September 5, 2023
Never Flinch	May 27, 2025

6. Finders Keepers (2015)

In Finders Keepers, the second installment of the Bill Hodges trilogy, Holly Gibney firmly establishes herself within Stephen King’s literary universe. However, despite its merits, this book ranks lower mainly because it serves as a middle piece, lacking the depth of a captivating introduction or a significant culmination. Holly’s character evolves as she bonds with Bill Hodges, yet this growth, while enjoyable, makes her journey feel less impactful compared to other tales.

5. The Outsider (2020)

The Outsider introduces readers to a different side of Holly as she navigates a world separate from her mentor, Bill Hodges. Although the supernatural elements might seem unexpectedly jarring, this novel marks a significant step for Holly, showcasing her growth in unfamiliar social landscapes. The narrative’s uneven aspects place it a notch below many of its predecessors, but it serves as an essential transition into her upcoming stories.

4. If It Bleeds (2020)

The novella If It Bleeds positions Holly as the main protagonist for the first time, allowing her character to step into a leadership role. The narrative is refreshing, showcasing her as she rallies her allies against a formidable antagonist. Nevertheless, due to its shorter format, the development of Holly’s character is somewhat limited and bears resemblances to her previous challenges.

3. End of Watch (2016)

As the closing chapter of the Bill Hodges trilogy, End of Watch balances action and emotional depth, revealing the strength of the father-daughter-like bond that develops between Bill and Holly throughout the series. This culmination allows Holly to shine as a co-protagonist, bringing forth significant growth and a well-rounded character development that resonates with readers.

2. Mr. Mercedes (2014)

Despite not being the strongest entry overall, Mr. Mercedes holds a special place as Holly Gibney’s first appearance. King departs from his trend of depicting female characters, offering a unique personality in Holly—marked by her anxieties and vulnerabilities. The glimpses of her potential in this initial setup lay the groundwork for future developments.

1. Holly (2023)

The latest release, Holly, stands out as the most compelling portrayal of the character to date. As her first complete narrative, Holly’s journey explores both her present triumphs and a deeper understanding of her past. This novel not only reflects on her growth but also consolidates her place as a formidable character in King’s vast oeuvre.

Source & Images