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

https://rebrand.ly/By-the-Light-of-the-Moon-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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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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Mr. Murder Review

Mr. Murder

Published: 1993

Author: Dean Koontz

Genre: Fiction, Genetic Engineering, Ghost, Horror, Mystery, Psychological, Science Fiction, Supernatural, Suspense, Thriller

Check the summary of this book here:

Mr. Murder Summary

The Review

Mr. Murder is a horror novel written by best-selling novelist Dean Koontz. This is one of the finest thrillers by Dean Koontz. He resurrects his interest in genetic engineering to create a really terrifying adversary, but one for whom you almost feel sad. The characters are an extremely likable family with two wonderful children. The narrative proceeds at an almost breakneck rate. There are no dull moments. The finale is a little obvious in that "there's no other way out," but it's still pleasant. I am certain you'll enjoy it if you read it.

The narrative and realistic tale were what I like most about this book. The characters were fantastic. Koontz has always been good at inventing memorable characters.

When reading, the readers may think to themselves, "This is an exciting book. The plot twists and turns, and every time I think I've figured it out, I worry whether my assumptions are hasty. I still have about eighty pages to read, so I may be surprised, but this Koontz adventure is the best ever!" I think you get the idea of what I'm trying to say. I'm not going to say anything else because I want everyone who reads it to have as much enjoyment as I did.

I'm not sure why so many of my reader friends disliked the book! Koontz was ahead of his time when he wrote this in 1993. The plot is fantastic and just gets better as the narrative progresses. 

Prepare for a story with many twists and turns. It's incredible how he puts you inside the mind of a murderer. As the tale progresses, you begin to doubt your own morals. A dynamic conclusion will leave you guessing about how everything will play out. It's a fantastic read!

While reading this book, I had the feeling that I had read it before, but I couldn't recall the story as I was progressing, and then I realized it was a new story but I was confusing it with some stories that Stephen King wrote, and even some of its style was like a few more of Dean Koontz's own stories, but don't worry it is not a copy and it is not a mixture of many stories either. 

Another item that sprang to mind was the 2001 film Replicant, starring Jean-Claude Van Damme, which had some cloning and other small elements that reminded me of it. But it is the only link between these two mediums.

I believe that happened to me because I read a lot and have read so many books from the same genres, which sometimes confuses my cerebral microprocessor, and I am sure many enthusiastic readers have to cope with the same scenario again and again. 

Yes, individuals like me can give you the whole narrative of a movie from start to finish, and we can even create novels because of that amazing memory bank in our heads.

It's been a lot of pleasure exploring Dean Koontz's previous reads during the last few weeks. I'm still a long way from the latest novel, and I'm actually relieved that I have many other wonderful books to hold me over till his next one comes out.

Mr. Koontz is a superb writer who creates realistic scenarios with the nuance of a single word here and there. His mind can dream up the finest storylines, blending mystery, intrigue, and fear.

I'm going to add some content in the next few lines that is essentially from the book's synopsis, so I don't consider it a spoiler.

The Dean Koontz School of Writing is evident in "Mr. Murder." It's a well-written novel about an author and his clone. Neither the writer nor the clone is aware of the other until the doppelganger’s wiring malfunctions and he comes to claim the novelist's family and life. 

Clones do not appear spontaneously, as we all know; they must be created by a large and evil Network intent on creating a super-soldier. 

Things didn't go well for this clone since he wasn't supposed to be formed from the novelist's DNA. It's comforting to know that God is still in the details, even for the multi-cultural, super-rich, super-powerful terrible men.

Following the release of Mr. Murder, Koontz sold the picture rights to Savoy Pictures. The adaptation was slated to be released in 1996 as a big-budget theatrical film starring Bruce Willis as Marty Stillwater and directed by Uli Edel. This version, however, was never completed.

Due to the failure of the feature film, the rights to the idea were sold to a new production firm, which developed it as a miniseries on a considerably lesser budget. 

Dick Lowry directed this adaption based on a teleplay by Stephen Tolkin. Stephen Baldwin portrayed Marty Stillwater, Julie Warner portrayed Paige Stillwater, Thomas Haden Church portrayed Drew Oslett Jr., and James Coburn portrayed Drew Oslett, Sr., a character not in the novel. 

It first aired in New Zealand on September 21, 1998, and then on ABC in the United States on April 26 and 29, 1999.

The characters in this novel, like in his others, are interesting and surprising. The villains are genuinely terrible, while the heroes are inspirational. This book will captivate you from beginning to end, and you will not be able to put it down.

Final Thoughts

Dean Koontz is beginning to give me the sense that he can make even the most banal things in life exciting. Not that the book is dull, but his writing style makes some of the book's more routine facts more engaging. 

There is an implausible premise that is vitally fundamental to the tale, as it is in many of his writings. This, to me, is what makes it more exciting since it goes beyond your typical thriller novel.

Nothing against females, but I had to mention this, and it also goes in the opposite direction since the heroes are the same and make excellent boyfriends or husbands. Koontz appears to model the romantic female interest character after the cliché of the flawless, supporting, bright, overly capable, and gorgeous woman. 

I don't mind it, but is it really feasible to find someone like that in real life every time a person falls in love? Perhaps all of the heroes in these tales are really lucky.

And in this narrative, he pulls this character even further into silliness. The main character's psychologist wife turns out to be G.I. Jane as well, with no explanation other than that she had had some training. 

She is not only all of the aforementioned things, but she is also extremely tactical and competent with weaponry. She approached issues with the knowledge and skill of a Navy Seal, and she was essentially the family's defender. 

Realistically, handling a shotgun might be intimidating for anybody who hasn't shot one before, yet she handles it like Rambo despite the vast difference in size and expertise. 

Simply put, it is a novel and not a real-life situation, so have fun and don't put too much pressure on your brain, but one thing I can understand is that even if you don't know how to use a weapon or have never fought, if your family and loved ones are in danger, you will undoubtedly become a killing machine, so think of this as what is happening in this novel. If you can disregard it, it's a fairly decent story with a nice surprise at the end.

Synopsis

“#1 New York Times bestselling author Dean Koontz delivers a gripping novel of a man accused of stealing not just someone’s identity, but his entire life...

A big house. A beautiful wife. Two happy and healthy children. It’s a nice life that writer Martin Stillwater has made for himself. But he can’t shake this feeling of impending disaster.

One bad moment on an otherwise fine day has put Marty on a collision course with a killer—a man with a mere shadow of an identity who is desperately searching for something more...

Martin’s home. Martin’s family. Martin’s life.”

Useful Search Related Words & Keywords

Ann Kindberg, Bill Smitrovich, Brittney Lee Harvey, Bruce Willis, Character Development, Dan Lauria, Dark Half, Dark Rivers, Dean R. Koontz, Debbie Smith, Dennis Creaghan, Dick Lowry, Don Hood, Don Mcmanus, Doug Mchenry, Edge Of Your Seat, George Jackson, James Coburn, Julie Warner, K Callan, Kaley Cuoco, Koontz Books, Martin Stillwater, Marty Stillwater, Rivers Of The Heart, Stephen Baldwin, Stephen Tolkin, Thomas Haden Church

Rating: 90/100

Recommended: 100/100 Yes.

Buy the Kindle Version Here

https://rebrand.ly/Mr-Murder-Kindle

Free With Free Audible Trial

https://rebrand.ly/Mr-Murder-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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Dragon Tears Review

Dragon Tears

Published: 1993

Author: Dean Koontz

Genre: Animal, Contemporary, Fiction, Ghost, Literature, Mystery, Psychological, Supernatural, Suspense, Thriller

Check the summary of this book here:

Dragon Tears Summary

The Review

Dean Koontz's Dragon Tears is a paranormal/horror book. It is another fantastic adventure, complete with mystery, thrills, tension, and yet another fantastic dog to add to the excitement! I believe the two main characters deserve a series, with the other characters getting their own book! 

The first sentence establishes the tone: "Tuesday was a wonderful California day, full of sunshine and hope until Harry Lyon had to kill someone at lunch." The story follows the happenings of various seemingly unrelated people and how one day becomes worse and worse, concluding in a tragic predicament. With genuine creatures and magic to contend with, everyone is physically and psychologically exhausted. For Copywrite reasons, here the quoted words are not precisely as they were in the book.

This tale moves quickly and delves into new realms of wonder and dread. Dean Koontz is a fantastic storyteller who exploits the compassion of a few individuals as well as the immense propensity for cruelty and violence in the majority of humanity on the planet. 

Many individuals have experienced things that have no rational explanation, and many readers will recognize the coldness of intuition and "knowing" things without proof or instruction, but rather "felt in the belly" foreboding. 

We must always pay attention to our bodies' intuitions and sensations. Not everything, like tick tock, can be satisfactorily described using logic and reason.

Another enjoyable read that is classic Koontz. Exactly as good as Watchers, Lightning, or Intensity, in my opinion, but a really enjoyable read. 

I especially enjoyed being in a dog's head. I'm not sure whether that's how the inner psychology of the canine mind works, but it was a wonderful way to explore the cosmos through the eyes of a dog. 

Mr. Koontz, thank you for your continued greatness in your writing, and as always, I was delighted to see a dog in his story since it is like his trademark, and I adore it when he uses it. The sections when he writes from the dog's point of view are unique, engaging, and thoroughly enjoyable. Dean Koontz writes with a poet's heart, a deliciously crazy poet's heart.

This came as a surprise during my quest to read all of Dean Koontz's works. It is a Koontz novel from beginning to end. The characters in this novel were engaging. Bryan's persona intrigued me as a fascinating psychopath. His scenario with the blue eyeballs was so bizarre and weird that I had to look at the bigger picture. The entire incident played vivid visuals in my head, riveting, repulsive, and terrifying me at the same time. 

Dean Koontz, who are you really and how do you envision and write about perversions like this? Please, whatever you do with this magic, don't put a stop to it. Bryan's craziness combined with magical abilities was, in my opinion, one of your greatest characters.

A superb storyline with many plots that keep the reader wondering. But in a few situations, it was a little longer than it should have been which may be exhausting. But persevere; it will be worthwhile. If you enjoy criminal fiction, sci-fi, and a little romance, you'll enjoy this novel. This is one of those novels that stay with you for a long time after you finish it.

Here, Koontz's creativity shines brightly. His works are in the "could something like this actually occur to anyone" category, and if I could, I would award this book 200 points (as if it mattered).

Koontz is in a league of his own and that is why Koontz is one of my favorite authors, and I own nearly all of his works. I hope he writes indefinitely.

I read this story a few years ago. One of Dean Koontz's challenges is that he is such a successful author that a comfortable public knows there will always be another Koontz novel soon enough. Several years later, I found myself recalling the dog's narrative voice again and again. 

We all know that Koontz adores dogs, and most of his stories include golden retrievers. Regardless, the book's dog narrator sections are highly intriguing and difficult to forget. I was motivated to research the book's title since I own every book he's ever written, but remembering what occurred in which book is difficult. 

So I had to remove a number of books from my collection and run internet searches to acquire the name because the title of this book is completely different from what I was looking for. Still a fantastic book to recommend to fans and new readers alike.

Final Thoughts

This book was fantastic and not as horrible as many of my friends imagined it would be, but it was right up there with the very best! It includes a supernatural element; a lot of tension, really well-developed characters, one of his regular whacky and insane characters, and yes don't forget the dog! 

Dean Koontz's creativity runs wild in this one, making it one of his greatest works! As with most of his novels, revealing too much about what occurs spoils the enjoyment for the reader. So I'm not going to tell you anything else. 

However, it is absolutely worth reading!!! I realize people say it isn't one of Koontz's finest works, but it is at the top and definitely on top of other books in the same genre.

This one was packed with storyline twists and shocks that I did not see coming. Fast-paced, with excellent character development and a compelling narrative. As is nearly often the case with Dean Koontz novels and his developed characters, the characters that grow on you!

I agree that the title is absurd. A dysfunctional family is a recurring theme in Mr. Koontz's books. But not as dysfunctional as our own families. Above and beyond. Even shocking. Now, this is a treasure trove. Choose one. That gets old for me as a fan. However, I enjoyed the plot. I wholeheartedly endorse it. And seeing through the Dog's eyes is both amusing and ideal.

I'm a major Dean Koontz fan, but this novel took me a while to get into. It appeared to be coloring an image for a long period. It was flowing smoothly by the second to the third chapter. I enjoyed the action and the typical riveting drama; good vs. evil. If you're a fan, I don't think you'll be disappointed.

Synopsis

“A cop races against time to prevent his own death in this heart-pounding thriller from #1 New York Times bestselling author Dean Koontz.

Harry Lyon is a rational man, a cop who refuses to let his job harden his soul. His partner urges him to surrender to the chaos of life. But Harry believes in order and reason. Then one fateful day, he's forced to shoot a man—and a homeless stranger with bloodshot eyes utters the haunting words that challenge Harry Lyon’s sanity...

“Ticktock, ticktock. You'll be dead in sixteen hours...Dead by dawn...Dead by dawn...Dead by dawn...””

Useful Search Related Words & Keywords

Bad Guy, Bad Place, Dead By Dawn, Edge Of My Seat, Fast Paced, Great Read, Harry And Connie, Harry Lyon, Koontz Books, Point Of View, Serial Killer, Ticktock

Rating: 90/100

Recommended: 100/100 Yes.

Buy the Kindle Version Here

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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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The Bad Place Review

The Bad Place

Published: 1990

Author: Dean Koontz

Genre: Contemporary, Fiction, Horror, Literature, Mystery, Psychic, Suspense, Thriller

Check the summary of this book here:

The Bad Place Summary

The Review

Dean Koontz's horror book The Bad Place contains elements of horror, suspense, and mystery and is portrayed in part as a spin on the private eye narrative. Leave it to Dean Koontz to come up with new and unusual settings for his stories. This is one of those quick and simple readings. Koontz keeps his half of the agreement by always keeping the reader intrigued and wanting to know more. Mini mysteries and questions keep springing up, and you want to know the solutions. He introduces characters that you want to get to know and identify with. Both personally and socially.

In this story, the Dakotas are pitted against the Pollards. Koontz gets to touch on an aspect of biology that I have rarely seen in other stories with the Pollards. But I'm not going to say anything about it here. 

The Dakotas symbolize the poor American family attempting to live a relatively normal existence, particularly for Julie's brother, who also has his own biological condition, Down's syndrome. 

Within the numerous interwoven riddles brought on by brother Frank Pollard, the individuals all become entangled. Frank awakens in an alley, unsure of how he got there or who he is.

This is a fun book to read. Mr. Koontz, in my opinion, has surpassed many other authors as the finest horror, science fiction, and thriller writer living today. I admire Mr. Koontz's efforts to both educate and frighten his audience. Many times while reading his works, he inspires a frisson of enthusiasm. Some of his writings are on par with ancient literature. "The Taking" is my favorite of his books among many others. But I enjoy all of his work and have a library full of his Hardback, Paperback, Audiobook, and Kindle or digital copies. What a delight he provides to the reader who seeks an escape from the stresses of the world.

I'm a huge Dean Koontz fan who enjoys novels about vampires and other supernatural creatures. In my perspective, the true hero of this book is a young man with Down's syndrome. 

The primary protagonists are a married couple who are saving money for their "dream." The wicked man is absolutely terrifying; as is his ill, horrible, sick family (their mother is to blame). I'm an animal lover, and I didn't enjoy the cats being used as psychological demons.

If you're the queasy kind, skip this story. This was a roller coaster trip that was both unsettling and horrifying at points. Similar to a Stephen King book. I really enjoyed this book but I am basically immune to being queasy.

I really enjoy this one, especially the superbly created, super creepy twin girls. I'm curious if the primary characters, husband, and wife private investigators Bobby and Julie, were named after Bobby Troup and Julie London.

There is never a dull minute in this novel. I believe that would make an excellent film. It contains nice guys and an enticing, yet terrifying, the tiny family of evil guys who are more than dysfunctional. There's action, love, mystery, sci-fi, and horror... so you never go overboard. It did come to an end soon, but I doubt I would have appreciated it any other way.

Warner Bros. obtained film rights to The Bad Place in 1990, according to Koontz in the Afterword of a 2004 paperback release. Don Johnson and his wife Melanie Griffith sought for the roles of Bobby and Julie Dakota. The screenplay was written by Koontz, and it generated a lot of talk within the studio until the then-studio boss judged it unclear, but the studio refused to sell the script back to Koontz.

Chuck Russell was hired to helm the picture in 1991, while Richard Jefferies wrote the screenplay. Lee Rich Productions would have produced the movie. However, Jefferies quit the project after three drafts, claiming "burnout." Andrew Wolk was hired as a writer after he left. This variant was likewise never realized.

It was written and took place in the early 1990s, and so much has changed since then that the reader is occasionally jarred by the thought "use your mobile phone!!" But Mr. Koontz is such a fantastic writer that he just takes you on great trips with his equally amazing and captivating characters, who keep you going because you have to know what happens to them. If you like Dean Koontz, you should read this book since it's a bizarre yet interesting novel.

Final Thoughts

This is one of those rare books that you hope never ends. It is quite tough to put down. From start to finish, it was thrilling. 

I've yet to read a Dean Koontz novel that I didn't appreciate. It's the unsettling twist of strangeness that keeps you guessing how things will end out. There is never a dull page in this book, which is packed with captivating, loveable, and disgusting characters. But that is how practically all of this author's works are meant to be.

Do you need a good retreat as well as a moderate challenge? Pick up this book. It is remarkable in that the notion is so realistic, but could this happen? Thank you, Dean, for another amazing experience.

It's basically a classic Dean Koontz novel. He writes a fantastic tale that combines suspense, science fiction, horror, and a touch of romance. From start to finish, action. I've read nearly all of his works, and this is up there with Watchers, Lightning, Phantoms, and Strangers as one of his greatest. It's a little more than 400 pages long, but I couldn't put it down. I finished it in three days since I was reading many other novels at the same time, but I dedicated the majority of the third day and night to it. It is most definitely worth your and my time to read this book.

I love a good Dean Koontz novel. I find his writing style to be riveting and nail-biting, while yet being simple to read with few dull passages. This novel has a few unexpected twists and turns; you hardly know what to anticipate or where the characters would probably finish. I suggest it to everyone who likes scary literature as well as fast-paced tales.

It contains a lot of violence and sexual perversity, thus it's not appropriate for younger readers. But, in any case, it was an excellent read for me. If you can withstand the brutality, I strongly suggest this book.

Synopsis

“#1 New York Times bestselling author Dean Koontz delivers terrifying thrills in this novel about a man caught in a never-ending nightmare.

Frank Pollard is afraid to fall asleep. Every morning he awakes, he discovers something strange—like blood on his hands—a bizarre mystery that tortures his soul. Two investigators have been hired to follow the haunted man. But only one person—a young man with Down's syndrome—can imagine where their journeys might end. That terrible place from which no one ever returns...”

Useful Search Related Words & Keywords

Bad Place, Bobby And Julie, Downs Syndrome, Ever Read, Frank Pollard, Great Book, Julie Dakota, Koontz Books, Roller Coaster, Years Ago

Rating: 95/100

Recommended: 100/100 Yes.

Buy the Kindle Version Here

https://rebrand.ly/The-Bad-Place-Kindle

Free With Free Audible Trial

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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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The Servants of Twilight Review

The Servants Of Twilight

Published: 1984

Author: Dean Koontz (Wrote as Leigh Nichols)

Genre: Contemporary, Cult, Fiction, Horror, Literature, Mystery, Suspense, Thriller

Check the summary of this book here:

The Servants Of Twilight Summary

The Review

The Servants of Twilight is a novel by thriller writer Dean Koontz, first published in 1984 under the pen name Leigh Nichols. The initial title was simply Twilight. The narrative of the novel centers around a single mother who is persecuted by members of a religious cult whose leader believes the woman's son is the Antichrist. In 1991, a movie adaptation was released.

I often remark that as a Dean Koontz fan, I've read practically all of his works. Despite the fact that it was one of his earlier ones I simply had to have it!

It's a short read by Koontz standards, but it's amusing and thought-provoking all the way through. It was first published under one of Koontz's numerous aliases, "Leigh Nichols," before being re-released in 2011 under his own identity and with an afterword from him.

This novel is a good sociological experiment in terms of "what may happen" in a circumstance like this.

It's a terrifying look into the world of religious extremists and how they may wield absolute authority over their followers. It dives into the core of mankind and calls into question the very deeds that one considers to be right. 

This is seen not only from the "good folks," but also from the villains point of view. You can see why they're doing this and feel a little sorry for "Mother Grace," but not enough to lose sight of who you're rooting for in this novel.

The middle of the narrative was thrilling. The characters were in terrible situations, sometimes for so long that it was difficult to believe they would live.

The characters are well-rounded and not overly numerous, and everyone contributes to the plot in their own unique manner. At moments, Koontz has us wondering, "Who is truly right?" and I believe that is one of the book's attractions. Although the plot is at times obvious, the question "Who is truly on the right team?" creeps into the subconscious mind.

The novel hooked me from the first few pages and took me on a rollercoaster journey to its thrilling climax. It demonstrates Koontz's earlier writing style, which I much prefer to his more recent novels.

I just re-read (mainly listened to) this book, wondering if the passage of time and contemporary technology would cause it to deteriorate; it did not. Its narrative is still a possibility, if not exacerbated by the advance in technology and cell phones. These things would make locating any innocent (or a criminal) person quite straightforward nowadays.

And, certainly, a nutcase might still concentrate on a highly empathetic child or person and easily find deluded followers who could be persuaded to go on a 'holy' mission to murder the child or person. So, in today's reality, I found this novel much scarier.

After the novel became an international bestseller, a television film adaptation of The Servants of Twilight was produced in 1991. The film was directed by Jeffrey Obrow and starred Jarrett Lennon as Joey, Belinda Bauer as Chris, Bruce Greenwood as Charlie Harrison, and cult favorite Grace Zabriskie as Grace Spivey, also known as Mother Grace, the charismatic leader of a fanatical religious cult known as the Church of the Twilight. When it was released, the picture received a slew of negative reviews and failed to create an impression. Most nations, including the United States, have the film available on DVD.

There is, indeed, a Golden Retriever in the novel. Dean Koontz virtually always sneaks one into one of his novels! That makes it even more incredible for me because I am an animal lover, particularly our furry loyal pals with wagging tails.

Now there is something that is and is not a part of this book, and because a portion of it has something to do with it, I realized this is a fantastic opportunity to discuss it here... I was irritated when Joey fed chocolate to his dog in the story. 

Isn't it common knowledge that chocolate is poisonous to dogs? The author was quite reckless in unwittingly pushing other children to feed chocolate to their pets. On the other side, I believe the author was attempting to illustrate that this is simply an innocent child who is unaware of how deadly chocolate is to dogs. 

So, once again, we must tell and teach our children not to unintentionally feed poisonous substances to dogs or other animals, and it is a good idea to teach them what is good and what is not for whatever pet you have for the animal's protection.

Final Thoughts

Once again, one of Koontz's earliest pieces feels new and exciting. Koontz's insights into the emotional and psychological ramifications of childhood trauma are what struck me the most about this book. He dives into this as though he had firsthand knowledge! 

He has incredible understanding and empathy for his characters. I particularly enjoy the child/adult interaction that develops here; it's amusing, clever, and tragic. In a nutshell, a good novel!

Though I enjoy Dean Koontz's works, this one had a little issue in that the romance developed a little too rapidly for my tastes, but in line with the story pacing. I, too, would have liked more searching for the boy's absent father than was presented. The author never really explained the leak, blaming it on the whacko's psychic abilities. It would have been creepier if it had been the receptionist or another person, in my opinion.

I am a free-spirited person who understands that love may happen at any moment and with anybody, and I don't really care what others do until I am involved or dragged into it or someone is in danger, but what follows is what many readers may say about the love and romance in this work... You've probably heard about the myth of love at first sight. It was true love at first sight. So when two of the main characters fell "in love" on their first meeting, I had to scoff. I was expecting something more conventional.

One of the twists at the end was practically always insight, and I believe virtually every reader will guess it long before it occurs, but I won't say what it is for the avoidance of spoilers.

One mystery was how Spivey was able to track her quarry so swiftly and successfully. Was she actually prophetic? I was counting on a tracking device attached to the dog's collar and was astonished Charlie hadn't considered it. Also, does Joey possess any psychic abilities? This was merely alluded to. However, readers may learn all of this while reading the book.

When I came close to the end of the narrative, I just had to continue reading, even though I was exhausted and sleepy. I don't want to ruin anything for anyone who hasn't read the book yet, so all I can say is that I strongly advise everyone to read it.

Synopsis

““Koontz is brilliant.” –Chicago Sun-Times

An ordinary parking lot in southern California. Christine Scavello and her six-year-old son are accosted by a strange old woman.

"I know who you are," the woman snaps at the boy. "I know what you are."

A scream, a threat—and then a grotesque act of violence. Suddenly Christine's pride and joy, her only son, is targeted by a group of religious fanatics. They've branded him the Antichrist. They want to kill him. And they are everywhere…”

Useful Search Related Words & Keywords

Al White, Belinda Bauer, Bruce Greenwood, Bruce Locke, Carel Struycken, Dale Dye, Dante D'andre, Dudu Mkhiz, Edge Of Your Seat, Fast Paced, Grace Spivey, Grace Zabriskie, Jack Kehoe, James Harper, Jarrett Lennon, Jeffrey Obrow, Jillian McWhirter, Kelli Maroney, Koontz Books, Lionsgate, Little Boy, Odd Thomas, Old Woman, Page Turner, Patrick Massett, Religious Cult, Richard Bradford, Russel Lunday, Venetia Stevenson

Rating: 90/100

Recommended: 100/100 Yes.

Buy the Kindle Version Here

https://rebrand.ly/The-Servants-Of-Twilight-Kindle

Free With Free Audible Trial

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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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