By the Light of the Moon Review

By the Light of the Moon

Published: 2002

Author: Dean Koontz

Genre: Action, Adventure, Conspiracy, Fiction, Horror, Literature, Mystery, Psychic, Psychological, Suspense, Thriller

Check the summary of this book here:

By the Light of the Moon Summary

The Review

Dean Koontz's novel By the Light of the Moon is a best-selling novel. The story explores the ethical applications of nanotechnology, the desire to do the right thing, and genetic rewiring. 

I read this book after a few years when it first came out years ago and had forgotten about it. As a consequence, it appeared like I was reading a new novel, and I was eager to get started.

This time, I really enjoyed it, and the fact that I'd read it before didn't take away from the shocks. That's one advantage of forgetting a book and reading a lot; if you read a book after a long time, all these stories become muddled, but that doesn't mean I'm forgetful or have a memory issue.

I adored the characters in this novel, as well as the bizarre plot. Koontz has a gift for making the impossible seem plausible. His writing is lyrical as usual, but it didn't irritate me too much this time.

I just sat back and listened to the narrative because of the hectic schedule, I relied heavily on the audio version this time. The narration on Audible is outstanding. I was sucked into the plot from the first page, and I believe this is due in part to Dean Koontz's ability to build convincing and complicated characters that I care about.

By the Light of the Moon was one of those unexpected and beautiful reads. The "surprise" was never exactly figuring out the doctor's motivation, particularly why he first chose Dylan and Shep to continue on his "life's work." 

The relationship becomes clearer as more information is disclosed. Dylan, Shep, and Jillian, the three main protagonists, have all been injected with a mysterious substance that has a distinct effect on each of them. Working together, the three are able to devise tactics to escape being apprehended by the "state men" who want to obtain this serum.

Koontz begins his tale with a genuine North by Northwest atmosphere, as his characters appear to be in the wrong location at the wrong time. In the novel's last pages, an intriguing story twist takes a surprising turn that will catch most readers off guard, and Koontz rips the wrong location at the wrong moment into something wholly different.

I tried to think of something I didn't enjoy about this narrative, but I couldn't come up with anything. And, having grown up around a few handicapped people and now being a friend of several fantastic autistic friends, I don't think I've ever seen the pain, frustration, and wonder of the condition so inhibited. I'll read it again next year, or whenever I'm ready, which will most likely be soon.

When I was a youngster, we used to play with two brothers who were unusual to us yet we allowed them to play with us. Kids nicknamed them Goo and Goo-Goo, but I never found out who was who since I only called them friend or brother because I was embarrassed to call them with that disrespectful term. 

After all, that is all they could say when they attempted to communicate. They never spoke, only made noises and used bizarre hand signals. 

My father advised me to be extremely kind and gentle to these kids and to never get upset, even if they did strange things. They did some crazy stuff, but it wasn't dangerous like when they shook hands, they would suddenly bring their foot up instead of hand to shake your hand, and I realized it wasn't them who discovered this crazy style, but rather some bullies who did it to them and then they started doing it to other kids. 

They were brothers with a large age difference, they constantly had spit hanging out of their mouths, and they hobbled a little, but they were decent kids who could play football with us and were extremely effective at it even with the limp. 

I believe they had mild polio and a severe form of autism, yet I never saw them sad. They were constantly smiling, except when bullies attempted to make fun of them, but the bullies had no clue I was the bully of bullies and would beat the heck out of them. 

I was extremely pleased with these two brothers when I saw them beating one of the bullies one day. I hurried to help, but by then the bully had fled. When they spotted me, they saluted me like soldiers and pointed at me, explaining that I was the one who inspired them to do it, and they were overjoyed. They then began crying and hugging me. 

It was an enriching experience for me. I'm not sure how they are now because I haven't gone to that neighborhood in a long time, but I hope they are still okay and happy. I'm not sure why I started including this incident, but it felt fantastic to talk about. Let us return to the review...

This book does not live up to Odd Thomas' high standards, but it is an interesting read that I am confident the majority of readers will appreciate.

Shep is autistic, yet his "skill" appears to be the most extraordinary and spectacular of the three, a true gift. 

Jillian, who had been a complete stranger to Dylan and Shep until that bizarre night when they were drugged, becomes a true member of the "team." She has incredible compassion for Shep and his autistic mannerisms. 

Furthermore, Koontz does an excellent job of researching autism and demonstrating what it must be like to live with and care for an autistic close relative. 

Shep develops and evolves as he welcomes Jillian as part of the "family," but he is not "cured" of his autism. His talent boosts his self-esteem and allows him to overcome his shyness in order to aid the other two.

To be honest, I find his works really entertaining. By the Light of the Moon easily ranks among his finest works, although, as previously said, it is not on Odd Thomas's level. The only disappointment I had after finishing the book was that it had come to an end.

Dean Koontz's patchwork of the story takes a new approach. Instead of switching back and forth between story strands like he did in Strangers and Mr. Murder, Koontz largely sticks with his three primary characters once they are introduced. As has become customary with Koontz, his latest novel is only a few days long.

Final Thoughts

Dean Koontz's distinctiveness, as always, made me wonder, "What's going on?" Then, eventually, he did it again!!! Thank you, Dean Koontz, for taking up so much of my time, which I will never regret because it was never wasted and provided me with pure mental pleasure.

Koontz has a unique knack for injecting comedy into his suspense-filled chapters, particularly through the character of Shep O'Conner. Shep, the unique character, is easily comparable to Tom (M-O-O-N spells Tom) from Stephen King's The Stand. Both personalities are really endearing and far more than they appear to be.

These three characters are easily among the most endearing and distinctive characters in the Koontz world. 

Despite the nonstop action and length of time that comprise the story's backdrop, Koontz manages to let the characters to grow and become three-dimensional.

This is also one of the few Koontz books without a lovable creature. I appreciated the tension of believing and I understood the doctor's motivations, only to discover that Koontz adds more to the plot right up to the finish.

I suggest this to all Koontz lovers and for those who haven't tried Koontz yet, this is a fantastic place to start. Koontz is a writer who explores characters' inner strength and their conviction in humanity's decency.

The goon team that pursues Shep, Dylan, and Jillian never develops as characters since they are always a menace in the background. 

Normally, Koontz enjoys getting inside the brains of his nasty characters and revealing their illnesses. With the exception of the terrifying Dr. Frankenstein, he mostly avoids doing so.

Those who have yet to experience the Koontz universe could not have asked for a finer introduction. By the Light of the Moon is a work of art, a masterful weaving of tension and comedic relief.

Synopsis

“Dean Koontz has surpassed his longtime reputation as “America’s most popular suspense novelist” (Rolling Stone) to become one of the most celebrated and successful writers of our time. Reviewers hail his boundless originality, his art, his unparalleled ability to create highly textured, riveting drama, at once viscerally familiar and utterly unique.

Author of one #1 New York Times bestseller after another, Koontz is at the pinnacle of his powers, spinning mysteries and miracles, enthralling tales that speak directly to today’s readers, balm for the heart and fire for the mind. In this stunning new novel, he delivers a tour de force of dark suspense and brilliant revelation that has all the Koontz trademarks: adventure, chills, riddles, humor, heartbreak, an unforgettable cast of characters, and a climax that will leave you clamoring for more.

Dylan O’Connor is a gifted young artist just trying to do the right thing in life. He’s on his way to an arts festival in Santa Fe when he stops to get a room for himself and his twenty-year-old autistic brother, Shep. But in a nightmarish instant, Dylan is attacked by a mysterious “doctor,” injected with a strange substance, and told that he is now a carrier of something that will either kill him...or transform his life in the most remarkable way. Then he is told that he must flee--before the doctor’s enemies hunt him down for the secret circulating through his body. No one can help him, the doctor says, not even the police.

Stunned, disbelieving, Dylan is turned loose to run for his life...and straight into an adventure that will turn the next twenty-four hours into an odyssey of terror, mystery--and wondrous discovery. It is a journey that begins when Dylan and Shep’s path intersects with that of Jillian Jackson. Before that evening Jilly was a beautiful comedian whose biggest worry was whether she would ever find a decent man. Now she too is a carrier. And even as Dylan tries to convince her that they’ll be safer sticking together, cold-eyed men in a threatening pack of black Suburbans approach, only seconds before Jilly’s classic Coupe DeVille explodes into thin air.

Now the three are on the run together, but with no idea whom they’re running from--or why. Meanwhile Shep has begun exhibiting increasingly disturbing behavior. And whatever it is that’s coursing through their bodies seems to have plunged them into one waking nightmare after another. Seized by sinister premonitions, they find themselves inexplicably drawn to crime scenes--just minutes before the crimes take place.

What this unfathomable power is, how they can use it to stop the evil erupting all around them, and why they have been chosen are only parts of a puzzle that reaches back into the tragic past and the dark secrets they all share: secrets of madness, pain, and untimely death. Perhaps the answer lies in the eerie, enigmatic messages that Shep, with precious time running out, begins to repeat, about an entity who does his work “by the light of the moon.”

By the Light of the Moon is a novel of heart-stopping suspense and transcendent beauty, of how evil can destroy us and love can redeem us--a masterwork of the imagination in which the surprises come page after page and the spell of sublime storytelling triumphs throughout.

BONUS: This edition contains an excerpt from Dean Koontz's The City.”

Useful Search Related Words & Keywords

Autistic Brother, Away From Heaven, Brother Shep, Corner Of His Eye, Door Away, Jillian Jackson, Koontz Books, Light Of The Moon, Mad Scientist, Main Characters

Rating: 90/100

Recommended: 100/100 Yes.

Buy the Kindle Version Here

https://rebrand.ly/By-the-Light-of-the-Moon-Kindle

Free With Free Audible Trial

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Mr. Murder (1998) (R)

https://rebrand.ly/Mr-Murder-1998-R

Hideaway (1995) (R)

https://rebrand.ly/Hideaway-1995-R

Phantoms (1998) (R)

https://rebrand.ly/Phantoms-1998-R

The Servants Of Twilight (1991) (R)

https://rebrand.ly/The-Servants-Of-Twilight-1991-R

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One Door Away from Heaven Review

One Door Away from Heaven

Published: 2001

Author: Dean Koontz

Genre: Action, Adventure, Conspiracy, Fiction, First Contact, Literary, Literature, Mystery, Psychological, Science Fiction, Supernatural, Suspense, Thriller

Check the summary of this book here:

One Door Away from Heaven Summary

The Review

Dean Koontz's work One Door Away From Heaven is a best-selling novel. Koontz has woven the tales of a super-intelligent handicapped girl living with a drug-addicted mother and evil Step Father, a down-on-her-luck woman living next door with her eccentric Aunt Gen, a hardened and grief-stricken PI and his elegant client, and, of course, a shape-shifting Alien hell bent on healing the World.

This tail is woven by Koontz's incomparable descriptive language, which at times resembles poetry. His abiding affection for his late Golden Retriever appears as a reoccurring topic of the spiritual relationship between people and their dogs. Despite being slightly less intelligent than humans, dogs retain an innocence that allows them to sense our Creator's Playful Presence.

All of this sets the stage for a dramatic struggle between Good and Evil. Even though I was reading this work for the second time, I found it just as exciting. I wholeheartedly suggest this for a pleasurable experience.

Even though I am an unflinching admirer of Dean Koontz and everything he has done, one of my all-time favorite Dean Koontz novels is still "Watchers," and another that may be too much for casual readers is "From the Corner of His Eye."

I have digital editions and audio versions of practically all of the books I buy, but I still enjoy turning pages, smelling the paper, and touching a book. When reading in bed, I want to feel the weight of the book, which reminds me to stay alert or the book will smack me in the face. And I know that having the book in hand would make it a lot simpler to revisit certain favorites.

I remembered why it's one of my all-time favorite stories. I fell in love with the main and supporting protagonists once more.

The main character in the narrative is a little child who is endearing from the start. He's in grave danger, and when I reread portions of it, I find myself holding my breath. I still grin and feel hopeful when he presents himself in his natural form.

The issue is that science fiction has always been my favorite reading genre. I took a risk by departing from that genre, and Mr. Koontz guided me. 

Thank goodness he's written so many novels, because I'll never let go, and I've evolved a lot over time, and I adore practically all the types and genres except straight porn or phony filler sequences that are worthless and aren't a real part of a plot.

Wonderful tale. The characters are believable and sympathetic. Leilani, who is nine years old, is extremely powerful and intellectual. Her mother is the vilest slime you can think of. And her stepfather is a psychopath. The folks she meets, Mickey and Geneva, are exceedingly good-hearted and sincere, despite their poverty. 

The alien explains "good" and assists, Leilani. However, there are alien horrors that must be avoided at all costs. Dean Koontz at his finest. The language and descriptions are so beautiful that you can't help but have a revelation.

I thoroughly loved this Koontz thriller. It alternated chapters between four characters: a ten-year-old boy whose mother was murdered and who is now alone and on the run; a nine-or ten-year-old girl with a drug addict mother and an evil stepfather; a young woman determined to save the girl from an evil fate; and a private detective who appears at the beginning and then reappears near the end. I enjoyed the characters, didn't mind the alternative chapters, and thought the action was exciting and well-paced.

I think there was too much unnecessary description, which some readers may simply skim over, but I still enjoyed it and don't think skimming it is necessary, and a lot of amusing and likable comedy, but again, someone with a lot of exposure to this type of writing may find it overdone. Nonetheless, it was a pleasant read.

If I hadn't read this book, I would have assumed that it was bad based on the opinions of my reader friends, but that was not the case, and I recommend that everyone read it. Don't let others discourage you from purchasing and reading this fantastic novel. 

Such endearing characters, and it immediately plunges you into an enormous journey! Curtis at the truck stop counter made me laugh out loud, and it's very difficult to get me to smile, much alone laugh out loud. I've never encountered a Koontz novel that was unreadable.

I'd want to express that I'm not sure what to say about this book! It has left me speechless. It's one of the greatest books I've read in a long time. It was fantastic. It's one of those novels that you don't want to finish and despise when it does. Then you'll go back and read it again. 

The characters are so real that you find yourself identifying with them. Curtis is fleeing from beings bent on destroying our Earth. Curtis has been dispatched to save us, and they are pursuing him throughout the nation. 

The FBI then becomes involved since they are looking for the drug cartels. Curtis must keep moving to avoid being caught. 

The last twenty minutes of this book are like racing down a steep slope with your brake lines severed. You can practically hear the clock ticking, resulting in a whizzing conclusion. Plenty of tension, plenty of intrinsic comedy, maybe a little too descriptive for some readers' liking.

Final Thoughts

This is a gorgeous, exhilarating, incredibly incisive picture of the horrifying reality of evil, and frequently a quite hilarious book. 

Those of us who are paralyzed have a special reason to appreciate this book and to thank Mr. Koontz for writing it. It's difficult for me to beat the character of Einstein in "Watchers," but I believe Mr. Koontz almost succeeds with his creation of Leilani. 

I'm not sure I'd want to know somebody who didn't enjoy this book. But don't judge me if I discuss these two characters since they are both amazing to me, even if they aren't the same; I'm simply comparing the writing from both works.

Although this book is a little older than some, it is a fantastic Sci-Fi action drama. There are no spoilers here, so simply pick it up. This book's characters are unrivaled. If you like Dean Koontz, you'll appreciate this. 

In all of his novels, he has a terrific way of uplifting the neglected and forgotten, but he truly outdoes himself here. In our stories, we admire heroic dogs, and no one does it better than Dean Koontz.

I could never give this tale justice since there are so many individuals involved. If you're a Dean Koontz fan and haven't read it, you're losing out on one of his greatest. It gives you a wonderful sensation and offers you hope for the future. 

He's a master of words. I sometimes have to look up the definition; therefore I've enhanced my vocabulary, as practically all of his novels do.

Synopsis

This synopsis is from the Audiobook version

“In a dusty trailer park on the far edge of the California dream, Michelina wants to change the direction of her troubled life but can't find her way. When a new family settles into the rental trailer next door, Micky meets the young girl who will change her forever.

Despite her deformed left leg and withered left hand, nine-year-old Leilani Klonk radiates a buoyant and indomitable spirit that inspires Micky. Beneath Leilani's effervescence, however, Micky comes to sense a quiet desperation that the girl dares not express. Leilani's mother is little more than a child herself, and her stepfather, Preston Maddoc, is educated but threatening. Slowly, ever more troubling details emerge in Leilani's conversations with Micky. Most chilling is Micky's discovery that Leilani had an older brother, also disabled, who vanished after Maddoc took him into the woods one night and is now "gone to the stars".

While the child-protection bureaucracy gives Micky the runaround, the Maddoc family slips away into the night. So Micky sets out across America to find them: for the first time living for something bigger than herself. One Door Away from Heaven is an incandescent mix of suspense and humor, fear and wonder, a story of redemption and timeless wisdom that will have listeners cheering.”

Useful Search Related Words & Keywords

Aunt Geneva, Away From Heaven, Corner Of His Eye, Curtis Hammond, Door Away, False Memory, Koontz Books, Leilani Klonk, Old Yeller, Preston Maddoc

Rating: 90/100
Recommended: 100/100 Yes.

Buy the Kindle Version Here
https://rebrand.ly/One-Door-Away-from-Heaven-Kindle

Free With Free Audible Trial
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Mr. Murder (1998) (R)
https://rebrand.ly/Mr-Murder-1998-R

Hideaway (1995) (R)
https://rebrand.ly/Hideaway-1995-R

Phantoms (1998) (R)
https://rebrand.ly/Phantoms-1998-R

The Servants Of Twilight (1991) (R)
https://rebrand.ly/The-Servants-Of-Twilight-1991-R

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Dark Rivers of the Heart Review

Dark Rivers of the Heart

Published: 1994

Author: Dean Koontz

Genre: Conspiracy, Espionage, Fiction, Ghost, Horror, Literature, Political, Spy, Supernatural, Suspense, Technothriller, Thriller

Check the summary of this book here:

Dark Rivers of the Heart Summary

The Review

Dean Koontz's novel Dark Rivers of the Heart is an espionage thriller. No one can match Koontz's ability to build great characters, from horribly flawed yet unapologetically entirely decent to sophisticated and unthinkably wicked, and to design for them intriguing scenarios that are both absolutely ridiculous and terrifyingly plausible. And no one can match Koontz's command of the discourse. This work exemplifies his mastery of the art, and, as has been his custom, contains a dog as a complete character. For me, if I don't encounter a dog in a Dean Koontz work, I believe it's incomplete, another thing I mentioned is that he is unrivaled… it is not entirely accurate if you are including other greats such as Stephen King.

In this book, Koontz focuses on one of our greatest threats: the world's growing fascist governments, particularly at the federal level, but to a lesser extent at other levels. The more authority governments give themselves, the more appealing "service" becomes to bad people, and the more power these terrible individuals wield over innocent people, the less appealing "service" becomes to good people. 

Over the last few years, the government's attention has shifted from predators to those who resist the government's growing authority. Murderers sentenced to life in jail without the possibility of parole have been freed by the same "authorities" who aggressively arrest company owners for refusing to obey and bankrupting themselves at the government's whim. Almost everything Koontz prophesied has come true. This book was astonishingly foresighted.

I read this many years ago, but a few years after it was published in 1994, and it has stood the test of time well. Remember, this was written when we were only finding Windows 95 and computer technology was just getting started, so considering what Koontz had to deal with, I'd think he did an excellent job.

This big brother is watching story begins with a fortuitous encounter between a guy and a woman at a bar and leads the reader on a journey to hell and back. Dean Koontz gives us one of his best thrillers, only this time there's no supernatural element, just a great story of conspiracy and greed with a little romance. 

From power-mad secret governmental agencies run by insane killers to two people and a dog in a pedal to the metal flight across the country to avoid capture and certain death. This work clearly displays what Koontz can achieve with a genre other than horror. 

Go ahead and read it if you haven't already. And if you've previously read it and appreciated it, you might want to read it again in light of today's social networking media-crazed world. 

His most recent novels, according to some, have not lived up to this standard. But I think he was and still is a terrific writer, and all of his works are enjoyable to read.

I loved the extensively researched facts, which ranged from L.A.'s gum trees to high-tech monitoring tactics and computer hacking. 

I particularly like Koontz's brilliance in connecting the past and present and employing dream sequences in an un-clumsy manner. Any backstory that was inserted was captivating rather than ponderous. And I'm a sucker for conspiracies, so the shadow government worked for me. He made it credible and terrifying.

One of my all-time favorite novels. Intrigue, advanced tech (for the period), espionage, stealth, and pursuit all contribute to a fascinating narrative. I wish Koontz will write more like this, maybe with modern, super-tech in mind. The technology described in the book was not even available at the time it was published. This is one of his few non-mystical or otherworldly novels.

This was a thrilling ride that I thoroughly liked. The finale had some delicious justice, but it left things a little jumbled. I hoped Koontz had flipped the script on the assassin and let the monster murder the creator. If you've read the book, you'll understand what I mean. 

The irony would have been delightful, and I was sorry that he didn't pull the trigger. Also, Valerie makes a point of saying she'll have to kill whoever is chasing her, yet that encounter never occurs in the novel. I was duped into thinking it would appear near the conclusion of the novel and was disappointed when it didn't. But that's all I'll say to protect new readers from spoilers.

Overall, I loved the narrative, although I wish the ending had been a little more neat and gratifying. It may have been different if Koontz had done things differently.

Despite the fact that this novel is profoundly dark, terrifying, and so beautifully described that it frequently seems to represent current events, Dean Koontz manages to nurture hope for a better future. It was difficult to put down the book to go about my daily activities, but finishing the novel was well worth the effort.

Final Thoughts

One of my favorite author's is Dean Koontz. This is without a doubt one of his greatest novels, right up there with "Watchers." It's fast-paced, with an engaging and thought-provoking plot about a corrupt government that's probably closer to the truth than any of us like to think about too hard. 

By the end of this fantastic adventure, you'll feel like you know the characters personally. Mr. Koontz, you've done it again and again! I wish I had your enthusiasm for life. Please do not slow down and continue to publish books.

Dark Rivers of the Heart released many years ago, depicts the social and political attitudes of 2015 and many years following. In comparison to Dan Brown's Digital Fortress, which examines the impact of technology on society, Koontz strikes all the appropriate notes with the location and people in this novel. 

As with most of Koontz's works, he strikes a balance between descriptive mood and action. Dark Rivers of the Heart is a fantastic work in its genre.

Check it out if you're looking for a well-researched novel with rounded characters, a gripping narrative with beautifully interwoven strands of past and present, and a great dog who eventually gets his day to be a hero.

Everyone gushes over the Watchers and other stories, and deservedly so. But Dark Rivers of the Heart is maybe one of my favorites. It is one of his larger works, and it incorporates more underground government agency material than others. 

The struggle of the main characters is prominent, and you are cheering for them to catch up to each other. Their adversary is the most powerful and merciless undercover government spy you'll ever read about, with infinite finance and human resources to fulfill his goals. Not to add his terrible peculiarities/hobbies as a warped personality. Dark Rivers of the Heart is highly recommended.

Synopsis

“BONUS: This edition contains an excerpt from Dean Koontz's The City.

A man and a woman meet by chance in a bar. Suddenly they are fleeing the long arm of a clandestine and increasingly powerful renegade government agency -- the woman hunted for the information she possesses, the man mistaken as her comrade in a burgeoning resistance movement.

The architect of the chase is a man of uncommon madness and cruelty -- ruthless, possibly psychotic, and equipped with a vast technological arsenal. He is the brazen face of an insidiously fascistic future. And he is virtually unstoppable. But he has never before come up against the likes of his current quarry. Both of them are survivors of singularly horrific pasts. Both have long been emboldened by their experiences to fight with reckless courage for their own freedom. Now they are plunged into a struggle for the freedom of their country, and for the sanctity of their own lives.

Dark Rivers of the Heart is an electrifying thriller that steers us along the razor edge of a familiar, terrifying reality.”

Useful Search Related Words & Keywords

Asset Forfeiture, Dark Rivers, Edge Of Your Seat, Forfeiture Laws, Government Agency, Koontz Books, Roy Miro, Spencer Grant, Valerie Keene, Years Ago

Rating: 90/100

Recommended: 100/100 Yes.

Buy the Kindle Version Here

https://rebrand.ly/Dark-Rivers-of-the-Heart-Kindle

Free With Free Audible Trial

https://rebrand.ly/Dark-Rivers-of-the-Heart-Audible

Mr. Murder (1998) (R)

https://rebrand.ly/Mr-Murder-1998-R

Hideaway (1995) (R)

https://rebrand.ly/Hideaway-1995-R

Phantoms (1998) (R)

https://rebrand.ly/Phantoms-1998-R

The Servants Of Twilight (1991) (R)

https://rebrand.ly/The-Servants-Of-Twilight-1991-R

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Strangers Review

Strangers

Published: 1986

Author: Dean Koontz

Genre: American, Conspiracy, Depression, Fiction, First Contact, Horror, Literary, Mental Health, Psychological, Science Fiction, Superhero, Suspense, Teen, Thriller, Young Adult

Check the summary of this book here:

Strangers Summary

The Review

Strangers is a novel written by Dean Koontz that was nominated for a World Fantasy Award for Best Novel (1987). Best Novel nominee for the British Fantasy Award (1987). In 2018, it was revealed that a Strangers adaptation is in the works at Fox for a one-hour drama written by Criminal Minds creator Jeff Davis. Fox and Sony Pictures Television are collaborating on the project. But I'm not sure if it's been made or not; please let me know if it's already on the air.

I read this book for the first time in high school and had no idea who Dean Koontz was, but it had such an impression on me that anytime I thought of this author, this was the first book I remembered and the one of his many that I would label my favorite. It was well-written enough that it stuck with me and took me a long time to read a second time, but I always kept a copy on hand in case I needed to. It's because I'm a voracious reader and try not to sell any of my books unless they're really crap or I'm not interested in them.

I'm still impressed by the amazement, wonder, and hopefulness this book inspires in me, and after reading Koontz's newly added afterword, I understand why: this was his first passion project, and it shows. Dean Koontz is a major favorite of mine, and I've been reading his books for a long time. I was already aware of his concepts after learning that the films Demon Seed and Fun House were partially based on his writings.

I liked how he effectively combined a wide range of character styles. Eventually, he leaves us with the eternal quandary of religious belief against atheism – and here I disagree with a few friend readers. Is there a God who is bigger than we can imagine? Or... does the Universe sort of run itself and there is no such thing as a Creator?

One of my new discoveries in this book was his tributes to fellow writers Tim Powers, James Blalock, and Stephen King. Knowing he is friends with and used to be writing partner with Powers and Blalock makes these tributes to them especially endearing, plus they are all favorites of mine, and I hope that because he mentioned them, more people discovered these other, equally talented writers as well. I will always have a copy of this book in my collection and read it with great pleasure.

I know that some of Koontz's works are not enjoyed by all readers for various reasons, but in my view, it is all about the hype, and even if his books are fantastic, people expect greatness all the time, which is impossible. 

But this novel had me completely engrossed. As is often the case, Koontz begins with amazing speed, great ideas, and likable, well-rounded characters, only to lose momentum and imagination near the end, and it is essentially the same thing that readers are confused about because it is great, but to readers, it feels bad or not good enough because it was this great author who was supposed to give thousand-star story every time. This is without a doubt one of his greatest books. But it is only my view.

The plot was fast-paced and a great page-turner. The characters' backstories were wonderfully fleshed out and made you care about what happened to them. I truly liked this book till the finish.

Colonel Falkirk played the stereotypical nasty guy. He was the book's Snidely Whiplash, all wooden and two-dimensional. He was so ludicrous and out of control that I couldn't imagine anyone would have listened to him or followed him in any manner.

I had the impression that Koontz wrote a lengthy novel and then his editor told him, "It's too long, tie it up." Because the finish seemed a little abrupt for me, but it is something I usually always think of with amazing stories.

For non-readers, the book is rather extensive and begins by explaining the recent back-story of each individual in the book who begins suffering panic episodes, as well as what those terrors are and how they try to deal with them.

The first half of the novel is extremely riveting, with the reader hanging on every "page" to see how the protagonists deal with their life-destroying terrors.

The second part of the novel focuses on the events that surround each character as they are all unconsciously brought together where this trip began, and what occurs as they gradually piece together the circumstances of that incident.

The book is excellent, and it is one of Dean Koontz's finer works.

Final Thoughts

I only had the paperback and hardcover versions of this book, but I now have the kindle and audible versions as well, as I do with all of my favorite novels and writers' works. 

A terrific early fiction from Dean Koontz that has nothing to do with mass murderers or tracking homicides... I get much too much of it by watching television.

This is a really well-written and edited narrative about many strangers who are eventually bonded by the sharing of a life-changing incident... You should read it if you haven't already. If you've already read it, enjoy the pleasure of reliving a terrific narrative.

This was a great case of reading for me. The tension was so intense that I couldn't put the book down. I was wondering how he was going to tie all those ties and people together at the end, but he did.

This is science fiction, which I enjoy when it's excellent. I liked this one because of the happy conclusion. Koontz has a remarkable flair for characterization and writes better than many award winners, but that will never be acknowledged in the realm of high literature!! 

His manner is effortless. And, unlike many of my reading friends, I did not find the book to be overly long. Yes, the author went on and on in certain places, but it was still nice.

It is so brilliantly written, and the characters are so realistic, that I feel as if they are old friends with whom I like spending time now and then! 

I know Mr. Koontz doesn't write sequels unless they are planned from the start, but I would be first in line to buy a Strangers sequel! I'd like to know what happens to Dom and Ginger, Jack, Jorga and Marcie, Brendan and Parker, and so on. What are George and Rita's reactions? 

If the government cooperates in the release of information, or if they continue to try to maintain the secret, (and what is their justification for their treatment of US citizens!) Oh, there's so much I'd like to know!

Synopsis

““The plot twists ingeniously...an engaging, often chilling book.”—The New York Times Book Review

A writer in California. A doctor in Boston. A motel owner and his employee in Nevada. A priest in Chicago. A robber in New York. A little girl in Las Vegas. They’re a handful of people from across the country, living through eerie variations of the same nightmare.

A dark memory is calling out to them. And soon they will be drawn together, deep in the heart of a sprawling desert, where the terrifying truth awaits...”

Useful Search Related Words & Keywords

Character Development, Edge Of Your Seat, Ever Read, Hard To Put, Highly Recommend, Koontz Books, Main Characters, Page Turner, Tranquility Motel

Rating: 90/100

Recommended: 100/100 Yes.

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Phantoms (1998) (R)

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The Servants Of Twilight (1991) (R)

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Seize the Night Review

Seize the Night

Published: 1998

Author: Dean Koontz

Genre: Conspiracy, Contemporary, Fiction, Ghost, Horror, Kidnapping, Literature, Medical, Mystery, Supernatural, Suspense, Time Travel, Thriller

Book 2 of 3: Moonlight Bay

Check the summary of this book here:

Seize the Night Summary

The Review

Seize the Night is a novel written by best-selling novelist Dean Koontz. It is the second book of the Moonlight Bay Trilogy, which follows Christopher Snow, who suffers from the uncommon but real-world disease XP (Xeroderma Pigmentosum). Fear Nothing is the first book in the series, and Ride the Storm is the third, with a publishing date yet to be determined.

Cemetery Dance Publications originally offered Seize the Night in two limited edition hardback editions, each with a distinct front cover artwork.

Dean Koontz has his own style, usually substituting tension-filled drama for narrative or character advancement, but his writing is so fascinating that page-turning just takes over.

Dean Koontz's novels are always a safe bet. He employs the most unexpected heroes and makes reading a delight. But still, I'm looking forward to the third chapter of Moonlight Bay.

The following few sentences are about the book, but I also included information on my experience with the audio version because, due to time constraints, I had to listen to it first. 

Dean Koontz's heroes are whole once more - witty, intelligent, and willing to go the extra mile for each other no matter how terrifying it is. The issue is that if you're listening to these books on the audio version, Koontz spends much too much time catching you up on the history from Fear Nothing. 

I fast-forwarded multiple times and screamed several times, "What about Orson!" because he is one of my favourite fictional dogs. But don't worry, everything works out as it should and it's a fantastic story... I want more!

As again, the visuals and Koontz's ability to keep you on the edge of your seat are superb, and the reader Keith Szarabajka, who may not "sound" right at first, is flawless. 

The idea of the novel is original, as it was in the first book in the series, I enjoyed the characters, and the sections that really advance the storyline are excellent. I probably wouldn't have made it to the last 150 pages or so if I hadn't listened to the entire book in the vehicle on Audible.

One of the greatest books I've read by Koontz, and he's one of my favorites as well. This novel, rich in exotic landscapes and thought-provoking conversation, explores what can happen when man progressively interferes with the natural order of existence. Man's inhumanity in the name of science is addressed extensively and provocatively in the Koontz tradition, with underlying humor and forbearance.

This was an excellent read for me. The characters from Fear Nothing return in this novel, along with some new ones. Mungojerrie, the cat from Fear Nothing, plays a greater part in this novel, which pleased me. 

However, I have a word of caution for anyone who is going to read this book. This was supposed to be a trilogy, and as I got to the end of Seize the Night, it was clear that there was more to come. 

The problem is that this was released a long time ago, and Mr. Koontz has yet to write the third book in this series. But, as usual, I am hopeful that he will write it soon, and perhaps if all of the readers let him know that we want the next part, he will do it a little faster.

With Linguistics, his writing sense of humor, and his choice of the phrase It's no wonder that he's one of the most well-known authors in his field. Years ago, I "found" his works with From the Corner of His Eye and subsequently The Watchers, which remain my favorites. 

In Book two of Seize the Night, I saw a reference to The Watchers. Mr. Koontz, we all hope you will continue with additional novels in this series. I'm sure many others share my sentiments, as do many of my friends. Also, as a dog lover, I like the fact that you include dogs in so many of your works.

Final Thoughts

I know everyone likes Odd Thomas, and I do, too, but these two books, Fear Nothing and Seize the Night, are unquestionably among Koontz's greatest. 

I confess that the characters are a touch shaky but in a nice manner. Unlike in much of his work, there is a feeling of optimism and resilience in the face of an inconceivable and terrifying future that shines through and makes you care about these unexpected heroes. 

The Frankenstein component, I believe, is what truly distinguishes it and makes it a terrific read. The bad people are indeed terrible, yet you can't help but pity them and regard them as victims as those they damage.

This novel made me laugh, weep, and want to read more. Yes, the author is unnecessarily detailed at times, and it appears like he is attempting to outdo himself with brilliant or profound life remarks. 

The plot, on the other hand, was a roller coaster that would not let me off. And the finish.... the ending was well worth the wait.

The novel struck me as quite typical of Koontz. I love his writing, sense of humor, and awareness of what is right and wrong. 

As I said in my earlier review of the first part of this book, the character in this novel looks to share many of Odd Thomas' personality characteristics. Koontz is gifted at building likable and compelling characters. That became very evident to me after reading the majority of the other authors.

A good book with an engaging narrative and excellent chapters - a suitable follow-up to Fear Nothing. Some readers may find the explanatory and philosophical verbiage a little too much, but more intellectual readers will undoubtedly appreciate it.

Dean Koontz strikes again. The novel quickly drew my interest. Because it was the second book, it answered some of the questions raised in the first. It's a book that combines a thinking game with a story. I can't wait to read the last installment of this series!

What a wonderful book it is. Similar to the Odd Thomas style, yet distinct enough that you soon warm to the main character - and his extremely intelligent dog! 

Both volumes in this series are fantastic (Fear Nothing and Seize the Night). I only hope Dean Koontz would finish the third book in the series. 

I've heard it's in the works, but there's no word on when it'll be released. And I apologize to the readers for grumbling about the third book not being published over and again, but there is a reason, and once you read both novels, you will understand why I am saying this, and I am sure you will too.

Synopsis

“BONUS: This edition contains an excerpt from Dean Koontz's The City.

There are no rules in the dark, no place to feel safe, no escape from the shadows. But to save the day, you must...Seize the Night.

At no time does Moonlight Bay look more beautiful than at night. Yet it is precisely then that the secluded little town reveals its menace. Now children are disappearing. From their homes. From the streets. And there's nothing their families can do about it. Because in Moonlight Bay, the police work their hardest to conceal crimes and silence victims. No matter what happens in the night, their job is to ensure that nothing disturbs the peace and quiet of Moonlight Bay....

Christopher Snow isn't afraid of the dark. Forced to live in the shadows because of a rare genetic disorder, he knows the night world better than anyone. He believes the lost children are still alive and that their disappearance is connected to the town's most carefully kept, most ominous secret—a secret only he can uncover, a secret that will force him to confront an adversary at one with the most dangerous darkness of all. The darkness inside the human heart.”

Useful Search Related Words & Keywords

Christopher Snow, Fort Wyvern, Military Base, Moonlight Bay, Sequel To Fear, Surfer Lingo, Years Ago

Rating: 90/100

Recommended: 100/100 Yes.

Buy the Kindle Version Here

https://rebrand.ly/Seize-the-Night-Kindle

Free With Free Audible Trial

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Fear Nothing Review

Fear Nothing

Published: 1998

Author: Dean Koontz

Genre: Conspiracy, Contemporary, Espionage, Fiction, Genetic Engineering, Ghost, Horror, Literature, Medical, Occult, Psychological, Rural, Science Fiction, Small Town, Suspense, Technothrillers, Thriller

Book 1 of 3: Moonlight Bay

Check the summary of this book here:

Fear Nothing Summary

The Review

Fear Nothing is a novel written by best-selling novelist Dean Koontz. The book is the first of what is said to be a three-part series of books titled the Moonlight Bay Trilogy, which stars Christopher Snow, who suffers from the uncommon (but genuine) disease XP (Xeroderma Pigmentosum). Seize the Night, the second installment in the trilogy, was released in 1999. The publishing date for the third book, Ride the Storm, has yet to be determined. At the time of writing this review (28, April 2022), there is no information about the third book in this series, but I will alert you as soon as I discover more about the date or the book. Fear Nothing is a spiritual successor to Koontz's 1987 novel Watchers in various aspects.

This book is a hidden gem in Dean Koontz's incredible library. You'll enjoy this if you've read any of the Odd Thomas series. 

Christopher Snow appears to be the template for Odd Thomas - both are seemingly ordinary young men with one distinguishing feature that sets them apart. Both live in tiny towns and have only a few close friends who genuinely understand them. Both are lured into situations over which they have little control and must do whatever it takes to defend themselves and their loved ones.

This is a fantastic novel with a fantastic tale and fantastic characters. Orson deserves special note since he dominates every scene he's in and, in my opinion, is the book's star. 

I must repeat that I have yet to encounter an author who can make a dog such a vital component of a story as Dean Koontz can.

I enjoy novels about strange events and mysteries, and this one had both. It was a little sluggish in places, but once it got going, it kept my attention till the finish. There were many twists and turns, yet it was simple to follow.

I'm disappointed that Mr. Koontz didn't write the third book in this series until now because I adore the characters. It's a fantastic narrative, but more than that, it's a story about characters that, although being fake, seem very, very real. 

Dean Koontz is a genius at building characters who crawl their way into your heart and become a part of it. This novel and its sequel, Seize the Night, are both fantastic. This novel and its sole sequel are highly recommended to everyone who appreciates a nice read and a hot cup of tea on a wet day.

Dean Koontz has always been a fantastic writer, and this novel illustrates his ability to merge authentic physical locations with real occurrences, laying the groundwork for the storyline and making every component feel real and true. 

Then, as the narrative develops, seemingly unbelievable events take on an organic and authentic feel. My only regret was the ending—I need the next book to be finished right away since the state of suspense in which I am currently leaves me desperate for closure! But don't worry, these are my thoughts from the first time I read this book, and the second book is already available for purchase.

This narrative takes hold in Moonlight Bay, California, another little town on the coast rather than the desert-like Pico Mundo. Christopher has a unique skin ailment that only permits him to walk out at night. As a result, he can see in practically complete darkness. But he doesn't have Odd's ability to see the dead.

If you enjoy it, you should buy the sequel, Seize the Night. Frankenstein series which was to be a TV miniseries, so it was apparent there'd be more than one, and Odd Thomas, these are the only books that Koontz connected together. In other words, he made a multi-book series out of these volumes.

Christopher is a gentleman who is a staunch supporter of the good and a despiser of evil. He is bombarded by the latter. It's a science fiction thriller, but it's not too far out there. The Andromeda Strain by Michael Crichton is a novel that is similar to this one.

Dean Koontz's work is one of my favorites for several reasons, one of which is that he is able to take the technology and science we have right now one step too far to depict what may happen if we allow ourselves to be governed by greed, fear, or warmongers. 

He always manages to instill moral principles and morality in his hero, giving you faith that good will eventually win over evil. And don't forget that the dogs in his novels are great, and I adore them as well.

It's a unique yet interesting story with unusual personalities. Another thing I admire about Koontz is the extent to which he researches his characters. This brings the character to life, and you get the impression that you are hearing the story from the character himself, rather than the author.

Final Thoughts

This novel just blew me away. Christopher Snow, Orson, Sasha, and Bobby are fantastic characters, and I'm re-reading their exploits because I have a feeling the third Christopher Snow novel may be out sooner than we think, and I need to catch up. I sincerely hope that what I just said becomes a reality very soon.

I really like the characters in this one. Although the main character, Christopher Snow, has a similar voice to Odd Thomas, he is still a charming figure. And this one doesn't have your typical, predictable finish. It was fantastic! If you like Koontz, you'll want to grab this one. However, if he isn't, it's a great place to start. Excellent thriller with a sci-fi twist. I've mentioned it several times in this review, and I'll say it again: I love this book; it offered a lot of thought-provoking concepts for me. Friendship is something that we all wish we had with our friends.

This novel has so much intrigue and action that I couldn't put it down! Unfortunately, the finale was a little anticlimactic, and there were a few aspects that weren't thoroughly explored like, what was in the attic? What happened to the briefcase? I was curious. The reference to the novel Watchers was fantastic. Overall, another fantastic Dean Koontz novel!

There aren't many writers that can construct characters or conversation as well as Koontz. Actually, suspense and storyline are nearly the same. Especially in the narrative - Koontz is a master at constructing dangers that are both world-threatening and very intimate. This book is similar, and it's a great read. It works on all levels. It comes highly recommended.

Synopsis

“Fear, compassion, evil, courage, hope, wonder, the exquisite terror of not knowing what will happen on the next page to characters you care about deeply—these are the marvels that Dean Koontz weaves into the unique tapestry of every novel. His storytelling talents have earned him the devotion of fans around the world, making him one of the most popular authors of our time, with more than 200 million copies of his books sold worldwide.

Christopher Snow is different from all the other residents of Moonlight Bay, different from anyone you've ever met. For Christopher Snow has made his peace with a very rare genetic disorder shared by only one thousand other Americans, a disorder that leaves him dangerously vulnerable to light. His life is filled with the fascinating rituals of one who must embrace the dark. He knows the night as no one else ever will, ever can—the mystery, the beauty, the many terrors, and the eerie, silken rhythms of the night—for it is only at night that he is free.

Until the night he witnesses a series of disturbing incidents that sweep him into a violent mystery only he can solve, a mystery that will force him to rise above all fears and confront the many-layered strangeness of Moonlight Bay and its residents.

Once again drawing daringly from several genres, Dean Koontz has created a narrative that is a thriller, a mystery, a wild adventure, a novel of friendship, a rousing story of triumph over severe physical limitations, and a haunting cautionary tale.

This ebook edition contains a special preview of Dean Koontz’s The Silent Corner.”

Useful Search Related Words & Keywords

Christopher Snow, Keith Szarabajka, Koontz Books, Moonlight Bay, Page Turner, Stephen King, Takes Place

Rating: 90/100

Recommended: 100/100 Yes.

Buy the Kindle Version Here

https://rebrand.ly/Fear-Nothing-Kindle

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