Honest Book Reviews by Namsu

Hideaway (1995) (R)

Phantoms (1998) (R)

The Servants Of Twilight (1991) (R)

By the Light of the Moon Summary

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By the Light of the Moon Review

Dean Koontz, Action, Adventure, Conspiracy, Fiction, Horror, Literature, Mystery, Psychic, Psychological, Suspense, Thriller

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:

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

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

Mr. Murder (1998) (R)

Hideaway (1995) (R)

Phantoms (1998) (R)

The Servants Of Twilight (1991) (R)

https://rebrand.ly/False-Memory-Kindle

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False Memory Review

Dean Koontz, Contemporary, Crime, Fiction, Horror, Literature, Psychological, Romance, Supernatural, Suspense, Thriller

False Memory

Published: 1999

Author: Dean Koontz

Genre: Contemporary, Crime, Fiction, Horror, Literature, Psychological, Romance, Supernatural, Suspense, Thriller

Check the summary of this book here:

False Memory Summary

The Review

False Memory is a book written by Dean Koontz that was published in 1999. Koontz's characters are well fleshed out, sound real, and relate extremely well with me and my own perspectives of life. His characters have heart and are lovable, yet the evil lurking, as in real life, frequently comes at you with a grin; such a lethal weapon. This big gem of a story was no exception, and I quite loved it.

It doesn't concern me that his novels have happy endings, even though they don't always feel like they would play out nicely in real life, and you think, "That would never happen, in real life, they'd be alone, dead, or destitute!"

Because, except for in actual situations, where happy endings are frequently denied, in the mythical realm where the protagonists of books exist, you have the ability to change that. But for many of us, these narratives and happy endings have even nourished us and given us that glimmer of hope we've always needed.

The Audiobook was recorded by American actor Stephen Lang, and I really like Lang's portrayal of Dr. Ahriman.

False Memory was initially published by Cemetery Dance Publications as a limited edition hardback in two editions:

-1- A limited edition of 698 signed, numbered, and slip-cased copies signed by Dean Koontz and Phil Parks, who designed the Cemetery Dance editions' images.

-2- A lettered edition of 52 signed, lettered, and tray-cased copies, with Dean Koontz and Phil Parks also signing.

Fighting the horrible mind-control tricks of a sociopathic narcissist villain with heart and faith, the couple and their four-legged pal uncover evidence of a sinister goal and meet new valiant friends. Survival is the ultimate goal of the game. In the end, though, faith, friendship, and bravery show to be real and triumphant.

Koontz, as always, constructs a superb narrative with an outlandish antagonist and ordinary people with the passion to oppose him. The writing is engaging and well written, the narrative is intriguing, and the characters are compelling.

If you've never read anything by this author (Dean Koontz) before, this is one of the first novels you should read because it sets the tone and expectations for all future works by the author.

It is a story of how powerful mental influence can be, and it is a fascinating read. I can't and won't summarize it since it would ruin the experience of reading it, so I'll just say it's a fantastic read, and if you've never read any of Koontz's stories, this is a terrific one to start with.

I was surprised when my reader friends informed me they didn't enjoy the book or gave it a negative recommendation. I don't see how someone could give this book a negative rating and call it sluggish. I had no idea what novel they were reading.

This novel is surprising, horrifying, and stomach-churning at times, but it is never sluggish. Wonderful characters, an incredible idea, great humanity, and the worst of humanity. Very beautifully written. It's startling. I really suggest it, so don't listen to or read anything that says it's bad. Yes, it is mature and not suitable for children, but it is still a nice book and narrative.

Dean Koontz is unquestionably a prolific and astute writer. He doesn't claim to be a brilliant writer; he is popular because he is an entertainment based writer, and "False Memory," despite its implausibilities, loopholes, and apparently unending sequences, is a damn fine read.

The characters of Dusty, Martie, Skeet and Fig Newton are quite appealing, and readers should sympathize with their terrible situation. Also, in a little but significant supporting part, Susan Jagger is a wonderfully sympathetic character.

Martie takes her agoraphobic friend Susan to the extraordinary Dr. Mark Ahriman at the start of the novel. Martie soon discovers her own phobia: autophobia, or dread of oneself. That one will knock your socks off. Although the moments in which Martie races through the home looking for any potential weapon are a touch too protracted and overblown, they do demonstrate the extent of her anxiety.

Koontz unveils the villain early in the novel, and even though you know what's going on, you don't get all the gruesome details until a showdown with Dusty's parents late in the book.

And the villain of this story is one of Mr. Koontz's most heinous creations. What's more, Koontz doesn't try to make us feel sorry for the guy because of his awful background.

Neither does Koontz leave any loose ends in this one. After completing Peter Straub's "Mr. X," that's certainly refreshing. Mr. Koontz has learned over the course of his great writing career that you must finally delight your readers; terrify them, confuse them, but don't leave them suspended in the air with ridiculous literary antics. Mr. Koontz, congratulations on "False Memory." It's one of your finest pieces!

Final Thoughts

I've seen in this author's writings that not all of the characters receive what they deserve. Like in real life, the innocent suffer at times, while the guilty thrive.

What I adore about his heroes is how absolutely dedicated and faithful they are to each other and their pets.

I won't tell anything about the narrative because it's difficult and a little out there. I found it interesting and engrossing, despite the fact that it is quite unlikely (I hope and wish hard!) It was full of black humor, which I love; in fact, reading a well-written book of pure fiction like this may teach you something since you may need a dictionary.

Suspense, mystery, and uncertainty might be stressful at times, but it all came together at the end, middle, and beginning with twists, surprises, and shocks that I never saw coming, and the ending was rewarding.

Yes, there were moments when the author went on and on and on about something, but once you got through it, it all made sense.

The characters, well, not all of them, are described so clearly and endearingly that I was dragged into their worlds and lives. Dean Koontz's depictions were so lifelike that I fell in love with these individuals, well, not everyone. This is a fantastic book on so many levels.

Warning... Spoiler in this paragraph... This is an excellent suspense book. A psychiatrist manipulates numerous people through hypnosis to do anything he wants (Koontz will reveal this early in the book). Suicide, sex, murder, chasing, and other such activities

The book might be a little monotonous at first because every other chapter is about a husband and wife. Keep your calm; the book will strike you.

The only criticism I have for this work is that it might have been shorter for new readers and even avid ones at some times. Sometimes I feel that some of the characters' speech or actions were unnecessary. However, the premise, narrative, and action make it a really enjoyable read.

Synopsis

“NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER

No fan of Dean Koontz or of psychological suspense will want to miss this extraordinary novel of the human mind’s capacity to torment—and destroy—itself.

It’s a fear more paralyzing than falling. More terrifying than absolute darkness. More horrifying than anything you can imagine. It’s the one fear you cannot escape no matter where you run . . . no matter where you hide.

It’s the fear of yourself. It’s real. It can happen to you. And facing it can be deadly.

False Memory . . . Fear for your mind.

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

Useful Search Related Words & Keywords

Best Friend, Fear Nothing, Friend Susan, Main Characters, Manchurian Candidate, Martie And Dusty, Mind Control, Seize The Night, Stephen King, Twists And Turns

Rating: 90/100

Recommended: 100/100 Yes.

Buy the Kindle Version Here

Free With Free Audible Trial

https://rebrand.ly/False-Memory-Audible

Mr. Murder (1998) (R)

Hideaway (1995) (R)

Phantoms (1998) (R)

The Servants Of Twilight (1991) (R)

https://rebrand.ly/Sole-Survivor-Kindle

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Sole Survivor Review

Dean Koontz, Assassination, Fiction, Ghost, Horror, Media Tie-In, Occult, Psychological, Science Fiction, Supernatural, Suspense, Thriller

Sole Survivor

Published: 1997

Author: Dean Koontz

Genre: Assassination, Fiction, Ghost, Horror, Media Tie-In, Occult, Psychological, Science Fiction, Supernatural, Suspense, Thriller

Check the summary of this book here:

Sole Survivor Summary

The Review

Dean Koontz's best-selling novel Sole Survivor is about a lady named Rose who is being hunted by a firm called Teknologik. It was made into the film Sole Survivor in 2000. But I haven't been able to discover a genuine connection for the movie where the general public can obtain it without delay or any other difficulty, and as soon as I do, I'll share it here. Keep an eye on this post and this section of the post for any updates.

I read this book a long time ago, but apparently only the words. I heard and saw them this time. Dean Koontz is a writer who is as optimistic as they come. I suppose the last time I read it, it was when I was extremely busy and definitely read it before sleeping while in the bed on a wintery chilly night, which is why I was so thrilled to reread it again as a new book because I had no memory of it.

This book did not let me down. I really suggest it. Right up there with "Watchers." I hope you appreciate it as much as I did.

I've read practically every book Dean Koontz has published, and I've observed in recent years that he's abandoned themes centered on paranormal phenomena (Whispers, Strangers, etc.) in favor of a more typical character plot. This book is an interesting combination.

In Sole Survivor, Mr. Koontz has created a well-crafted and written page-turner. A routine airplane crashes in Colorado with no plausible cause. As you look further, you'll discover a government involvement in which evil is aiming to exterminate good.

Because he lost his family in the catastrophe, the protagonist is deeply invested in discovering the truth.

The novel does slow down around halfway through before revving up again. Once it happens, it's a winner all the way to the end.

Just two items that need to be fixed. - One - Airframes are not constructed of steel. – Second - No mention was made of the other accident fatalities in a proper way. However, as a novel, it is excellent, and any tiny errors or inaccuracies may be overlooked because it is fiction, not reality.

I frequently turn to Koontz for a wonderfully crisp, fulfilling book that has mystery, horror, the excitement of a good pursuit, a probable supernatural narrative line, and, of course, fantastic characters, as well as the creature that may die for love and loyalty, the dog.

I like the imaginative analogies and caricatures that Koontz employs in his writings. I adore his depictions of animals in his books since I am an animal lover.

Sole Survivor was intriguing from the start; a father mourning his deceased family embarks on a startling journey for truth as his life takes an unexpected turn.

Joe Carpenter is being followed by individuals who appear to have a bevy of surveillance technology a year after his wife and kids meet an unfortunate end on a trip that should have been a walk of joy.

I was completely caught in once I started reading this, Joe wallowed in pity and agony, sure there was a lot of that, but it made the narrative genuine, it let me feel what he felt, it placed me in his shoes and made the solution that much more vital to get to.

In the end, the narrative descended into the weird, but I loved it; it was interesting, and I appreciated learning the truth behind the tragedy. This was difficult to put down once I started reading it, and I had a fantastic time reading it; another terrific read from Koontz, with plenty more to come.

I prefer a more realistic evil villain than some of his other stories; therefore this one spoke to me. It kept me captivated, but not so compelling that I was frightened to turn out the lights at night. Because while it is not a real horror story, the suspense and action will make you sweat in certain circumstances. It's a page-turner with twists and turns that keep you on the edge of your seat.

If you are new to the author or wish to resume reading him after a lengthy break, this book is a fantastic place to start. The action never stopped and had me guessing till the very end.

The only thing that can turn you off is the extra descriptive prose, but I don't believe they're all that horrible if done correctly. Aside from it being a little annoying at times, I truly loved the tale and the characters. It's well worth reading.

Once again, I must say that I actually enjoyed the protagonists and the development of the story with good human insight, and as always, I'm sorry it was over so quickly and left me wanting more.

I wish a sequel would be great, but it's never going to occur like many other great stories by the author, but I still hope he will publish the sequels someday.

Final Thoughts

One of my favorite novels of all time, and one of Dean Koontz's greatest. This narrative has a unique blend of horror, science fiction, and spirituality that you won't find in many books.

I liked trying to figure out what was going on, being kept on the edge of my seat throughout the book, the detailed descriptions of the characters' surroundings or thoughts, and simply completely enjoying the "journey" from beginning to conclusion.

I suggest this book to anyone who likes science fiction or horror, as it contains elements of both. In fact, I believe the writers of Stranger Things stole a lot of concepts from this novel. Perhaps this is why I enjoy that series as well.

While hunting for the bizarre, strange, or supernatural I couldn't stop reading since it was so moving and enlightening. Characters are well-developed, believable people with tormented souls. This novel is ideal for Koontz fans and everyone who enjoys a thriller with a supernatural edge.

The plot was interesting and had me turning the pages. The characters are fascinating, and the plot moves quickly without becoming tedious. For a while, I thought the last 50 or so pages were going to let me down, but Dean Koontz pulled it off pretty beautifully. I can't say much more without giving too much away, so I'll just recommend that you read it for yourself.

Synopsis

“A catastrophic, unexplainable plane crash leaves three hundred and thirty dead -- no survivors. Among the victims are the wife and two daughters of Joe Carpenter, a Los Angeles Post crime reporter.

A year after the crash, still gripped by an almost paralyzing grief, Joe encounters a woman named Rose, who claims to have survived the crash. She holds out the possibility of a secret that will bring Joe peace of mind. But before he can ask any questions, she slips away.

Driven now by rage (have the authorities withheld information?) and a hope almost as unbearable as his grief (if there is one survivor, are there others?), Joe sets out to find the mysterious woman. His search immediately leads him into the path of a powerful and shadowy organization hell-bent on stopping Rose before she can reveal what she knows about the crash.

Sole Survivor unfolds at a heart-stopping pace, as a desperate chase and a shattering emotional odyssey lead Joe to a truth that will force him to reassess everything he thought he knew about life and death -- a truth that, given the chance, will rock the world and redefine the destiny of humanity.

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

Useful Search Related Words & Keywords

Billy Zane, Christine Willes, Dan Joffre, Edge Of Your Seat, Fast Paced, Glenn Morshower, Gloria Reuben, Isabella Hofmann, Joe Carpenter, John C. McGinley, Koontz Books, Loved Ones, Main Character, Mitchell Kosterman, Page Turner, Plane Crash, Rachel Victoria, Susan Bain, Wally Dalton, Wife And Children

Rating: 90/100

Recommended: 100/100 Yes.

Buy the Kindle Version Here

Free With Free Audible Trial

https://rebrand.ly/Sole-Survivor-Audible

Mr. Murder (1998) (R)

Hideaway (1995) (R)

Phantoms (1998) (R)

The Servants Of Twilight (1991) (R)

https://rebrand.ly/Ticktock-Kindle

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Ticktock Review

Dean Koontz, American, Fiction, Horror, Humor, Literature, Suspense, Thriller

Ticktock

Published: July 1996

Author: Dean Koontz

Genre: American, Fiction, Horror, Humor, Literature, Suspense, Thriller

Check the summary of this book here:

Ticktock Summary

The Review

Ticktock is a novel by Dean Koontz that deviates dramatically from his usual genre: after a traditional horror introduction, the tone of the tale shifts to screwball comedy, with the humor increasing progressively until the finish. The subplot involving protagonist Tommy Phan's attempt to reconcile his family's strong grasp on their Vietnamese heritage with his personal ambition to be totally American is crucial to story development.

I've read and re-read this book several times since its first publication years ago, and it never fails to keep me on the tip of my seat. It's thrilling, funny, and magical, and each time I read it, I discover something new. It is still one of my all-time favorite of Dean Koontz's novels.

Unlike much of Koontz's writing, this is a screwball comedy/horror novel in which the "funny" progressively surpasses the terror. Serious themes of pagan magic and family disputes between ancestral Vietnamese tradition and the "American Dream" are offset by madcap humor reminiscent of 1930s classics like "Bringing Up Baby."

In the Afterword, Koontz states that he wrote the novel partly as a relief from the darker aspects of his work, particularly Dark Rivers of the Heart, and partly for the challenge of writing a good screwball comedy, and he truly succeeded in making something that made me grin, and it is really difficult to make me smile, much alone laugh out loud. However, he was successful on a few occasions to do that also.

I've been a Koontz fan for years, and just hearing his name is enough to get me to buy a book. I approached Ticktock with the same mentality.

This isn't your usual Koontz tale. It contains some magical themes and a few stressful sequences, but it's a lot lighter and (I must add) more comic than any of his previous works I've read.

Tommy is a fantastic character, a Vietnamese-American struggling novelist attempting to get through each day before being drawn into circumstances beyond his comprehension or control. He's the quintessential everyday hero with such a charming demeanor that you can't help but cheer for him.

Odd Thomas is one of my favorite Dean Koontz novels. I appreciate how he humanizes every one of the characters I've read so far. I like how they are silly but cool, with just the right amount of mystery about them.

I don't usually read romance novels, but I appreciate love tales like this one. Honestly, I don't think this was all about the doll in the first place. I enjoyed the narrative that Tommy and Del presented. Koontz, in my opinion, is a hopeless romantic, and many of his leads are suggestive of his earlier writings. Of course, all writers eventually return to their earlier work.

In any case, I definitely suggest this book. If you can get beyond the ridiculousness of the doll, you get a fantastic love tale; I really like how he incorporates E.T. references. I enjoy how he's not afraid to go in any direction when discussing something spiritual, biblical, or unknown.

Take a look for yourself, and you'll see that it's not quite as horrible as some claim. I've explained in length later in the review why some readers didn't appreciate the book, despite its greatness. Just read the beginning of "Final Thoughts" to understand what I mean.

I adored both mothers and Deliverance's character design. The narrative and ultimate reveal were so unique, inventive, ridiculous, thrilling, amusing, and dramatic.

The beginning can be a little slow due to the long explanations and the usual detailed stuff that the author does, so just keep up for about twenty-five pages in the start and you won't be able to stop reading, basically, when Del enters the story, she injects it with high octane fuel that makes our brain run super fast as well as the words on the pages.

I adored the characters and the plot. I was heartbroken when the narrative ended and still miss the characters as I write this review. I was anticipating for further novels that told about Tommy and Deliverance's exploits and those of their families, but I'm still waiting.

Final Thoughts

Yes, a handful of my reader friends and other readers did not enjoy it, and I discovered two reasons for this. One reason is that they are just racists, and the second is that we have high expectations of particular authors, and we want them to write what we want rather than what they want.

This is an excellent use of your time. Is it frightening? Not at all. Is it a light read that will keep you entertained? Definitely.

The intensity remained, but the humorous relief had me flipping pages late into the night. If you like this genre, I highly suggest it! "Dark Rivers of the Heart" is one of my ultimate favorites; this came close, but for very different reasons!

I've been a Dean Koontz fan for a very long time. Phantoms and Watchers are a few of starter novels that I can recommend, and sure, you may attempt many more if you've never read him before, but some of his books can be complex and may cause you to stop at the first book, so start with higher-rated books to acclimate to his style.

This one was ideal. I liked each character and appreciated the backstory if it was provided. This novel made me want to delve into their exploits, wishing the book didn't end, as it always does with Koontz works, and grateful that my imagination refused to image the rag doll rat speedy demon thing.

Once again, I must advise horror-thriller enthusiasts not to buy this book expecting it to be like many other Koontz works. It's a terrific narrative, but it's not what you'd expect from him.

The characters are one of the nicest aspects of this narrative; the way they respond to one another is amusing, and I found myself smiling as I read some of the exchanges. I liked how Koontz injected some levity into the 'bad drama' that is hunting them. Which was the story's magic.

The ending was cliché, but it was still entertaining. I prefer scientific explanations of how things work in a novel. This one was more Sci-Fi, certainly, but it was still adequate.

Synopsis

“Tommy Phan is a 30-year-old Vietnamese-American detective and novelist living in Southern California, and a chaser of the American Dream. He drives home his brand-new Corvette one day to discover a strange doll on his doorstep. It's a rag doll made entirely of white cloth, with no face or hair or clothes. Where the eyes should be, there are two crossed stitches of black thread. Five sets of crossed black stitches mark the mouth, and another pair form an X over the heart.

He brings it into the house. That night, he hears an odd little popping sound and looks up to see the crossed stitches over the doll's heart breaking apart. When he picks up the doll, he feels something pulsing in its chest. Another thread unravels to reveal a reptilian green eye --and not a doll's eye, because it blinks.

Tommy Phan pursues the thing as it scrambles away into his house -- and then is pursued by it as it evolves from a terrifying and vicious minikin into a hulking and formidable opponent bent on killing him.

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

Useful Search Related Words & Keywords

Deliverance Payne, Edge Of My Seat, Fast Paced, Highly Recommend, Koontz Books, Page Turner, Rag Doll, Really Enjoyed, Screwball Comedy, Tick Tock, Tommy Phan, Years Ago

Rating: 90/100

Recommended: 100/100 Yes.

Buy the Kindle Version Here

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https://rebrand.ly/Ticktock-Audible

Mr. Murder (1998) (R)

Hideaway (1995) (R)

Phantoms (1998) (R)

The Servants Of Twilight (1991) (R)

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Icebound Review

Dean Koontz, David Axton, Adventure, American, Assassination, Contemporary, Fiction, Horror, Literature, Psychological, Science Fiction, Suspense, Teen, Terrorism, Thriller, Young Adult

Icebound

Published: 1995

Author: Dean Koontz (Written as David Axton)

Genre: Adventure, American, Assassination, Contemporary, Fiction, Horror, Literature, Psychological, Science Fiction, Suspense, Teen, Terrorism, Thriller, Young Adult

Check the summary of this book here:

Icebound Summary

The Review

Dean Koontz is the author of the best-selling novel Icebound. The novel was first published in 1976 under the alias David Axton by Koontz, and then was rewritten and re-released in 1995 as Icebound. Definitely not you’re typical Dean Koontz, but what an amazing, emotionally evocative read! Believe me, you will feel chilled while reading it. Trapped, freezing, on the point of calamity, with a psychopath in your midst—it doesn't get any more gripping than this. I ended up eating it in a few days without realizing it. Thank you for republishing these novels and sharing them with us, Mr. Koontz!

Icebound is a well-written, captivating thriller that is considerably different from Koontz's other writings. A murder mystery, sort of, although the suspense is the main focus of this novel.

Will they all escape alive? There are no paranormal or supernatural aspects in this book, so if you're expecting them because it's a Koontz novel, you'll be disappointed. However, it remains a fascinating narrative. It's well worth reading.

It is not a horror novel, but you will be terrified. It's an action-packed, dramatic thriller about a group of scientists who become stranded on a drifting iceberg. A massive winter blizzard prohibits ship or plane rescue, and of course, one of the scientists is a crazy killer, but which one? Very engaging book with a thrilling conclusion that keeps you on the edge of your seat.

The men's stories, particularly the submarine captain's, make you care about the conclusion. Although Koontz is humble enough in his Afterword to downplay his technological detail in comparison to a Tom Clancy, I felt like I was there! I enjoy underwater experiences, and this is among the greatest.

The vivid description of what it must be like to labor in such a harsh environment is noteworthy. The descriptions of the arctic and the weather are fantastic. Even the death sequence in which one man drowns is so realistic that I could vividly understand what it was like to die this way.

In addition to the inherent dangers they encounter, there is one warped mind among them who is hell-bent on murder. This part of the narrative is also really nicely done.

In summary, I should have mentioned it earlier! I have nothing negative to say about this narrative or writing style. Because it was so captivating, I read it at breakneck speed. I wholeheartedly suggest this book to everyone who appreciates a technothriller, not only Koontz aficionados.

If you're solely searching for a supernatural horror narrative, this isn't it. But if you like Koontz's enormous creativity and want to read an intriguing thriller go ahead and read it!

In many cases, I decide not to read books that show you the idea that someone is trapped on a cliff, a ship, or any other plot device that feels like it will be in one room or a small space but don't be fooled because some of the greatest stories that I read were kind of like this, and I am fortunate that I read this and those stories even if I don't want to read this kind of story.

I recall a game that has nothing to do with this book or narrative but serves as an illustration of what I mean.

My brother bought me The Room, a game from the Silent Hill game universe, and at first, I thought it was just a game where you are stuck in a room, but once I started playing it, I realized it is basically a whole city that is connected with the room and you travel around it, and I fell in love with it in a matter of hours.

The same thing happened to me when reading this book, as well as many others with the similar backdrop of a concept being too little or not extensible in our thoughts. However, it is enormous in actuality.

The reason for this is because we, as readers, think with our own brains and decide not to read the book, but in actuality, the author constructed a vast world in that short space, which we never read and therefore miss out on wonderful and amazing time that we might spend reading that book.

This book's suspense will keep your heart pounding! The twists, turns, and perils that these people face will leave you breathless!

If you didn't read Dean Koontz's Icebound when it first came out, you're losing out on a fantastic read! Suspense!! Good old-fashioned, nail-biting, page-turning, heart-pounding suspense!!

I enjoyed every minute of it. So much suspense, and just when I thought I figured out who the evil guy was, I was proven wrong. I'm generally correct. However, I thoroughly loved this. Excellent work.

There are no extremely scientific topics in this work. There are no monsters. There is no hulking psychopath on the loose. However, it was a fantastic novel. I had a great time. I, for one, dislike reading the same type of book again and again. Anyone who is on the verge of reading this should do so. You will not be let down.

Final Thoughts

I was a Stephen King fan and was always concerned about what I would do if I ran out of his novels, but I got lucky and discovered Dean Koontz. The good news is that they write similarly, with minor differences in style and genre, so I have twice as many books to read, which is a fantastic find for me. I discovered a few more writers, although they are not the same as these two, but I appreciate them as well.

As with practically all of his works, I'm on my second or third reading of this one and it's even better the second time around!! So different from his earlier novels, yet so similar in suspense, wording, and readability!!!

Even for one of his early initial reads, this is incredible. He is a fantastic writer who draws you into the tale quickly and creates characters you like straight away!

Koontz is an exceptional writer, and this early novel, revised by the author, exemplifies his incredible talent. Few writers are capable of combining thrilling adventure and narrative with superb characterization. This is what Koontz excels at.

This is a pure technothriller. There is never a boring time in the action, and it is all extremely well done. I might add that it's a very plausible situation.

Once again, a terrific thriller in which, unlike most of Dean Koontz's other works, there are no boogeymen or otherworldly elements. It's a survival thriller that won't let up. Whether you enjoy Koontz's previous works or not, this one is not to be missed. It comes highly recommended.

Synopsis

“The arctic night is endless. The fear is numbing. Screams freeze in the throat. Death arrives in shades of white. And cold-blooded murder seems right at home.

Conducting a strange and urgent experiment on the Arctic icefield, a team of scientists has planted sixty powerful explosive charges that will detonate at midnight. Before they can withdraw to the safety of their base camp, a shattering tidal wave breaks loose the ice on which they are working. Now they are hopelessly marooned on an iceberg during a violent winter storm. The bombs beneath them are buried irretrievably deep . . . and ticking. And they discover that one of them is an assassin with a mission of his own.”

Useful Search Related Words & Keywords

David Axton, Edge Of Your Seat, Even Though, Fast Paced, Group Of Scientists, Harry And Rita, Koontz Books, Russian Submarine, Stranded On An Iceberg, Tom Clancy, Well Written

Rating: 90/100

Recommended: 100/100 Yes.

Buy the Kindle Version Here

Free With Free Audible Trial

https://rebrand.ly/Icebound-Audible

Mr. Murder (1998) (R)

Hideaway (1995) (R)

Phantoms (1998) (R)

The Servants Of Twilight (1991) (R)