Stephen King's Duma Key masterfully blends horror and suspense with rich character development and evocative prose. Praised for its intricate plot and vivid descriptions, readers find it both compelling and haunting. However, some critique its length and pacing. Overall, it's a potent mix of psychological intrigue and supernatural elements that captivates.

Readers who relish psychological horror blended with elements of supernatural mystery, akin to Stephen King's Bag of Bones or Peter Straub's Ghost Story, will thoroughly enjoy Duma Key. Ideal for those captivated by deeply flawed protagonists and atmospheric tension, it offers a haunting exploration of art, trauma, and recovery.

In Stephen King's Duma Key, after a life-altering accident, Edgar Freemantle relocates to a Florida island where he discovers his paintings possess eerie, supernatural powers. Befriending locals Jerome Wireman and Elizabeth Eastlake, Edgar uncovers a malevolent force linked to Elizabeth's past, compelling him to face the dark entity and stop its destructive influence. The novel includes themes of psychological terror, loss, and violence.

Mysterious / Emotional / Dark / Suspenseful / Contemplative

- Duma Key was first published in hardcover by Scribner on January 22, 2008, marking Stephen King's return to writing after a brief hiatus following health issues.
- The novel was conceptualized during King's recovery from a car accident in 1999, as he channeled his own experiences with trauma and healing into the story.
- Duma Key was adapted into an audiobook read by John Slattery, known for his role on the television series Mad Men.

**Edgar Freemantle**  
A 50-year-old protagonist and narrator who, after a traumatic accident results in serious injuries, moves to Florida and discovers the therapeutic power of painting.

**Elizabeth Eastlake**  
A 90-year-old woman with a unique presence and history who uses a wheelchair and has a mysterious and significant connection to the supernatural forces in the story.

**Jerome Wireman**  
A handsome and wise secondary character, distinguished by his humor and allusions, who works for Elizabeth and forms a deep friendship with Edgar.

**Perse**  
The novel's main antagonist, an ancient malevolent supernatural being with a penchant for controlling artists and unleashing chaos.

**Nan Melda**  
Elizabeth’s caring nanny from the 1920s, whose knowledge and intuition about supernatural matters play a crucial role in the story.

**Jack Cantori**  
A young college student who assists Edgar in his life in Florida and becomes an important ally in combating evil forces.

**Ilse Freemantle**  
Edgar's loving and empathetic younger daughter, who shares a close bond with him and is notable for her caring nature.

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Duma Key Summary

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Duma Key Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Interlude 1-Chapter 4

Duma Key Interlude 1-Chapter 4 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 5-9

Duma Key Chapters 5-9 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 10-13

Duma Key Chapters 10-13 Summary & Analysis

Interlude 8-Chapter 17

Duma Key Interlude 8-Chapter 17 Summary & Analysis

Chapter 18-Interlude 12

Duma Key Chapter 18-Interlude 12 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

Duma Key Character Analysis

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