62 pages • 2 hours read
Later
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Book Brief
248
Novel • Fiction
New York • 2000s
2021
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
In Later, young Jamie Conklin grapples with adult challenges due to his ability to see and communicate with ghosts. His gift provides critical information to his mother, Tia, while attracting the dangerous interests of her girlfriend, Liz, a corrupt cop. As Jamie uses his ability to prevent disasters, he also confronts the sinister, lingering spirit of a serial bomber who defies the usual limitations of the deceased and poses an ongoing threat. The book addresses incest, death by suicide, a suicide attempt, and child death, with problematic conflations of mental health conditions and criminality.
Mysterious
Dark
Suspenseful
Emotional
Reviews & Readership
168,098 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Stephen King's Later is praised for its gripping narrative and well-developed characters. Critics appreciate the blend of crime and supernatural elements, highlighting King's unique storytelling. However, some reviewers find the plot predictable and the ending underwhelming. Overall, Later is noted for engaging prose but falls short for those seeking a twist-filled thriller.
Who Should Read Later?
A reader who enjoys Later by Stephen King is likely fond of supernatural elements mixed with a crime thriller narrative. Fans of The Sixth Sense and Stephen King's own The Institute will appreciate the mystery, suspense, and young protagonist in Later. They revel in dark twists and character-driven plots.
168,098 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Tia Conklin
Tia Conklin
Jamie's overprotective mother, who struggles with balancing her protective instincts with the challenges posed by her son's supernatural ability.
Elizabeth “Liz” Dutton
Elizabeth “Liz” Dutton
A complex figure who transitions from a supportive role in Jamie’s life to one involving conflict, as her personal struggles begin to affect those around her.
Kenneth Therriault (“Thumper”)/The Deadlight
Kenneth Therriault (“Thumper”)/The Deadlight
A serial bomber who becomes embroiled in supernatural horror elements, complicating the typical adversarial role found in crime stories.
Uncle Harry Conklin
Uncle Harry Conklin
A largely absent figure in Jamie's life due to early onset Alzheimer’s, yet he symbolizes familial connections and personal challenges.
Professor Marty Burkett
Professor Marty Burkett
An academic who provides Jamie with crucial knowledge and mentorship, aiding his understanding of his supernatural encounters.
248
Novel • Fiction
New York • 2000s
2021
Adult
18+ years
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