Frightful Reads Friday: My Best Friend’s Exorcism Review & Friendship Horror

Source: Fantastic Fiction

Some friendships last forever. Others go straight to hell.

Grady Hendrix’s My Best Friend’s Exorcism isn’t just a horror novel — it’s a love letter to the 1980s, a bittersweet coming-of-age story, and a heart-wrenching exploration of what it means to stand by someone when they’re at their worst. Packed with neon nostalgia, dark humour, and genuine scares, this is possession horror with a pulse.

In this my best friend’s exorcism review, we dive into why Grady Hendrix’s My Best Friend’s Exorcism isn’t just a horror novel — it’s a love letter to the 1980s, a bittersweet coming-of-age story, and a heart-wrenching exploration of what it means to stand by someone when they’re at their worst. Packed with neon nostalgia, dark humour, and genuine scares, this is possession horror with a pulse.

My Best Friend’s Exorcism Review – A Spoiler-Free Synopsis

Abby and Gretchen have been best friends since fourth grade. They’ve survived bad perms, heartbreak, and high school drama — but nothing could prepare them for what happens after a strange night out by the lake in 1988.

Gretchen comes back… different. She’s moody, withdrawn, and oddly cruel. Her behaviour grows more disturbing with each passing day. Abby starts to suspect that something far darker is at play — something not entirely human.

In My Best Friend’s Exorcism, Hendrix takes readers on a ride that’s equal parts chilling and tender, showing how the bonds of friendship can be tested by forces beyond our understanding.

Why My Best Friend’s Exorcism Stands Out in Possession Horror

This isn’t just another possession story — it’s one with heart. While there are demonic antics, shocking set pieces, and moments of true dread, the emotional core lies in Abby’s unwavering determination to save her best friend.

Hendrix perfectly captures the cultural mood of the 1980s — mall culture, mixtapes, roller rinks, Aqua Net hairspray — all set against the backdrop of the real-world Satanic Panic. The bright, sugary aesthetic of the decade only makes the horror hit harder when it arrives.

The Horror Factor in My Best Friend’s Exorcism

• Possession with Personality: Hendrix injects sly humour and pop-culture winks into the demonic set pieces, making the scares memorable.

• Friendship as a Weapon: Abby’s loyalty becomes the ultimate exorcism tool, lending emotional weight to every terrifying moment.

• Cultural Nostalgia: Fans of Stranger Things and Jennifer’s Body will love the mix of retro charm and supernatural danger.

Reasons You’ll Love (and Fear) My Best Friend’s Exorcism

• Perfect for readers who want more than just jump scares — this is horror that makes you care.

• The humour keeps the darkness from becoming overwhelming, creating a highly bingeable read.

• The ending is a gut punch — bittersweet, hopeful, and unsettling all at once.

Who Should Read My Best Friend’s Exorcism

• Fans of Stranger Things, Jennifer’s Body, or Heathers.

• Horror readers who enjoy a strong emotional core in their stories.

• Anyone looking for a possession novel that doesn’t follow the typical religious-exorcist template.

Join the Conversation – Your Take on My Best Friend’s Exorcism

If your best friend was possessed, how far would you go to save them?

My Best Friend’s Exorcism blends nostalgic fun with supernatural horror in a way only Grady Hendrix can deliver. It’s laugh-out-loud funny one moment and deeply unsettling the next, all while reminding us that some bonds are worth fighting for — even against hell itself.

Whether you came for the 1980s vibes, the possession plot, or Hendrix’s trademark dark humour, you’ll leave with a story that lingers long after the final page.