Book Review: My Best Friend’s Exorcism by Grady Hendrix

What if the most terrifying thing isn’t a demon possession, but the strain it puts on your closest friendship? My Best Friend’s Exorcism by Grady Hendrix explores the power of loyalty, trust, and love through a chilling yet heartwarming 1980s horror story.

What is My Best Friend’s Exorcism by Grady Hendrix about?

My Best Friend’s Exorcism by Grady Hendrix is a coming-of-age horror novel set in the 1980s that explores the intense bond between two best friends as they face supernatural possession and personal struggles. Blending nostalgic pop culture with raw emotion and dark humor, the book highlights the power of loyalty and the complexities of growing up.

Nostalgic Aesthetic & Character Bond

Reading My Best Friend’s Exorcism took me back to a world filled with Barbie perfume, scratch-and-sniff stickers, and glitter—an era when roller skating parties and E.T. fueled every kid’s imagination. The book’s thickly layered ’80s vibe isn’t just a backdrop; it spills from every page like a bottle of spilled lip gloss. Yet, what truly captured me wasn’t just the E.T.-themed roller rink or the nostalgic 80’s music scattered throughout, but the genuine bond between Abby Rivers and Gretchen. Their friendship begins at a lonely 10th birthday party where only Gretchen shows up and grows into a unique, Madonna-loving, scrunchie-wearing alliance—sweetly described as “Dearly but not Queerly.” Despite Abby’s boring life, difficult parents, and struggles at school, she finds strength by guarding herself, closing her door quickly to avoid the “poison gas” of her home. Exorcising Fake Love with My Best Friend adds heartfelt depth to a simple yet unforgettable story about choosing yourself and standing firm even when the world tries to pull you down.

The Power of Female Friendship

One of the most moving aspects of My Best Friend’s Exorcism is its deep understanding of female friendship at its most loyal and soulmate-like. Having had close friends since high school, I could truly feel the weight of Abby and Gretchen’s connection—the shared memories, joys, and fierce trust that pushes you to save someone even when they’re trapped by darkness or demon possession. Hendrix captures the emotional storm of that “raging bitch” phase common in such stories, but with raw honesty that makes it painfully real. Through trauma, doubt, and battle against the unbelievable, the story highlights that survival alone isn’t enough; the fight for the people we love is what truly matters. The real power lies not in the supernatural horror, but in two female friends holding tight through the messy, beautiful chaos of growing up—anchors in a terrifying storm.

Female Characters and Dark Humor

Grady Hendrix’s female characters stand out in his 1980s-inspired catalog as strong, complex, and well-rounded—qualities often missing in the genre. Unlike many male authors, Hendrix gives his girls rich interior lives and varied interests, blending dark themes with sharp humor, reminiscent of Stranger Things and the Madonna soundtrack of the era. This mix of pop culture, horror, and heartfelt friendship perfectly captures the chaos of high school life with a twist that keeps readers hooked. What makes My Best Friend’s Exorcism so special is how Hendrix balances moments of demonic possession with the real struggles young women face. His narrative’s proverbial knife cuts through clichés to reveal a story full of grotesque, seismic, and emotionally deep scenes. As someone who has read many books in this genre, I find Hendrix’s work refreshingly entertaining, well-developed, and genuinely moving—a true standout.

Conclusion

My Best Friend’s Exorcism is more than just a supernatural horror story. It’s a nostalgic trip to the 80s wrapped in a heartfelt exploration of friendship, identity, and survival.

Grady Hendrix masterfully blends humor, horror, and emotional depth to create a story that lingers long after the last page. If you love stories about strong female bonds and coming-of-age challenges set against a vividly realized era, this book is a must-read.