The sequel that probably wasn't needed but glad we got.

Dan is all grown up now. After the events of the hotel things have changed, maybe even for the worst. Through his teenage and adult years Dan developed a nasty little habit of drinking. Similar to his papa this drinking problem causes a lot of pain for people. Soon into the story we see what happens when a drunk loser version of Dan does to another family that leaves him scared.

At the same time we focus on a group of...well let's just say not humans, as they are on a trail of blood and destruction by taking the life from people who can use the shining. That's right, the power that Danny had in the first book? Other kids have it too. And these creatures, who look all too human, want it and the only way to have it is to kill.

This is really a story of recovering. A huge focus is on Dan trying to make right after years of doing terrible things. Mostly to himself but others as well. A way to make up for what he's done basically. He meets a young girl, Abra, who also has the power of the shining, but even stronger than Dan. And the leader of the group of creatures who kill, Rose, wants her bad. This becomes a cat and mouse game, but Dan won't let it go that easy.

It's a different style of horror. More of a thriller than the original being more of a decent of a man into darkness turned vicious killer/abuser. The idea is different enough yet it still feels like a true sequel. And while it goes more supernatural root with the powers, it somehow still feels grounded and works for this story/universe.

I do think it takes a bit to get there. I was unsure how I felt about the villains, and while I came to enjoy them in the second half, they were the least interesting part in the first half.

Overall though a damn fine sequel to one of my favorite Stephen King Novels. A 4 out of 5.