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Showing posts with label Psychological. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Psychological. Show all posts

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:


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

Mr. Murder (1998) (R)

Hideaway (1995) (R)

Phantoms (1998) (R)

The Servants Of Twilight (1991) (R)

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Mr. Murder Review

Dean Koontz, Fiction, Genetic Engineering, Ghost, Mystery, Psychological, Science Fiction, Supernatural, Suspense, Thriller

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:


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

Free With Free Audible Trial

Mr. Murder (1998) (R)

Hideaway (1995) (R)

Phantoms (1998) (R)

The Servants Of Twilight (1991) (R)

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Dragon Tears Review

Dean Koontz, Animal, Contemporary, Fiction, Ghost, Literature, Mystery, Psychological, Supernatural, Suspense, Thriller

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:


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

Free With Free Audible Trial

Hideaway (1995) (R)

Phantoms (1998) (R)

The Servants Of Twilight (1991) (R)

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Any kind of support, even a simple 'like, thumbs up or a small comment' is enough and helps me grow, create and freely do more stuff and work on projects for the benefit of many.
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Cold Fire Review

Dean Koontz, American, Contemporary, Fantasy, Fiction, Ghost, Horror, Literature, Psychic, Psychological, Romantic, Science Fiction, Supernatural, Suspense, Thriller

Cold Fire

Published: 1991
Author: Dean Koontz
Genre: American, Contemporary, Fantasy, Fiction, Ghost, Horror, Literature, Psychic, Psychological, Romance, Science Fiction, Supernatural, Suspense, Thriller

Check the summary of this book here:


The Review

Dean Koontz wrote the best-selling novel Cold Fire in 1991. Some would argue that the narrative is bad since this is a newer and softer Dean Koontz, but I like him! This is the story of a guy who is compelled to save several people by an unexplainable psychic conversation. He gives up all to follow what he believes are Godly communications. A reporter is interested when he arrives at one of his rescues. She attempts to interview him but receives no substantive responses. She uses her vacation time to look into him and how he knows where to go and who to help. Their lives become intertwined, and she urges him to look into psychic connections and why they choose some individuals over others. Both are taken aback by the answer.

The rich story unravels in delectable tangles of mystery, keeping your interest throughout. No one (that I am aware of) writes a book about strange supernatural phenomena as well as Dean Koontz. 

His writings are so well-written and convincing that you almost believe there must be some aspect of reality in what he wrote, and you wonder whether he has ever encountered similar occurrences in his personal life or the lives of individuals he knows.

Koontz at his finest once more. His stories are a great delight to escape into, juggling suspense, science fiction, romance, and the occult. In his writings, there are no sluggish rides. He manages to seize your throat and hurtle you as quickly as you can flip the pages. I realize some of these things are repeated in one review and virtually all of his book reviews because he is that amazing.

I love good heroes, and this one fits the bill. I liked Jim Ironheart and would want to see a sequel where he and Holly become a powerful team. I saw Jim as a knight in sparkling armor riding on a sleek motorbike rather than a white horse, since he was modern and bright, and he learned all types of martial arts and read books about all faiths throughout the world.

Holly was single and in her thirties, with a straight head on her shoulders and a cool attitude without trying too hard, and even though you know throughout the book that Jim doesn't want any distractions as we read about how he saves some lives, it was obvious that them coming together would make for more interesting reading.

As we meet Jim, we learn that he is haunted by something horrible that haunts his nightmares and warns him of The Enemy's impending arrival. 

When Holly wants to learn everything she can about him, she becomes stuck in his nightmares, forcing her to investigate his odd predictions and terrible dreams in order to rescue both of their lives.

Things go from amazing to bizarre in the middle of the book. You have no idea where the ending will lead you. Personally, I was pleased with the finish; it was wonderful while being out of the norm.

I liked that I didn't know what was going to happen next and that I couldn't predict the finale, which is unusual for me. 

I enjoy it when a writer or actor breaks the boundaries, both in books and in films! For example my favorite Harrison Ford film is the one in which he plays the evil guy! 

I'm not sure why people are so obsessed with deadlines. How much more enjoyable would the experience be if the author, painter, or whatever the case may be, did not have a deadline and could take their time perfecting their work? Consider some of the finest (or at least stunning) works that did not adhere to any timeline. The Sistine Chapel or China's Great Wall? What miracles could some of these great individuals do if they had unlimited resources and no time limitations?

According to Koontz in the afterword to a 2004 paperback reissue, he and an unknown filmmaker independently adapted the book into a screenplay. They then pitched the concept to several studios. Koontz was surprised that every CEO had the same idea: make the fictitious aliens in Ironheart's life story real. The project was never completed because they couldn't find someone who would support the script as-is and not demand revisions. Koontz is absolutely correct in his Afterword; one minor alteration in the screenplay would have given the film a D+ at best! Hopefully, someone out there understands this and steps forward to develop a film based on the book's tale. It was an enjoyable read.

This book was really nicely written in my opinion. It gets going quickly and holds me interested throughout. I've read practically all of Dean Koontz's works, and just a couple have ever disappointed me in technical ways, otherwise, all of them are great. This had several unexpected twists and turns, which I quite loved. 

If you're a Dean Koontz fan or haven't read one of his books yet, this is a terrific introduction to his writing and great works.


Final Thoughts

I don't believe Cold Fire was much better or worse than other Koontz faves like Intensity or Watchers, but it was certainly entertaining! The author is able to blend the realm of reality with pure science fiction while still creating a plausible plot.

I appreciate how Koontz gets you like the characters and builds up the tale so you think you know what's going on, but then he deftly twists it around and nothing is as it appears. Then he makes you fear that the characters you care about won't make it out alive. I can't put it down because I adore it.

As stated in the first paragraph of this review, the novel is about two people: Jim Ironheart, who is mysteriously warned of impending accidents, and Holly Thorne, a reporter who had an experience with him and couldn't get him out of her head.

From the first page, Jim was a strong but brilliant and lovable figure who saved lives and captured female hearts. In a nice sense, it's unsettling. Mental instability is conveyed in a bizarre yet convincing way. A fantastic investigation of the power of the human imagination!

It's a real page-turner. Great idea, plot, suspense, and overall excellence. It's fantastic. I wholeheartedly suggest this book.


Synopsis

“A man on a mission must come to terms with his forgotten past in this gripping thriller from #1 New York Times bestselling author Dean Koontz.

In Portland, he saved a young boy from a drunk driver. In Boston, he rescued a child from an underground explosion. In Houston, he disarmed a man who was trying to shoot his own wife. Reporter Holly Thorne was intrigued by this strange quiet savior named Jim Ironheart. She was even falling in love with him. But what power compelled an ordinary man to save twelve lives in three months? What visions haunted his dreams? And why did he whisper in his sleep: There is an Enemy. It is coming. It’ll kill us all...?”


Useful Search Related Words & Keywords

Character Development, Great Read, Highly Recommend, Holly Thorne, Jim And Holly, Jim Ironheart, Koontz Books, Koontz Novels, Odd Thomas, Page Turner, Stephen King


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

Buy the Kindle Version Here

Free With Free Audible Trial

Phantoms (1998) (R)

The Servants Of Twilight (1991) (R)

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Strangers Review

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

Strangers

Published: 1986
Author: Dean Koontz
Genre: American, Conspiracy, Depression, Fiction, First Contact, Horror, Literary, Mental Health, Psychological, Science Fiction, Superhero, Suspense, Teen, Thriller, Young Adult

Check the summary of this book here:


The Review

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


Final Thoughts

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


Synopsis

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

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

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


Useful Search Related Words & Keywords

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


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

Buy the Kindle Version Here

Free With Free Audible Trial

Phantoms (1998) (R)

The Servants Of Twilight (1991) (R)

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The Door to December Review

Dean Koontz, Richard Paige, Contemporary, Fiction, Genetic Engineering, Horror, Kidnapping, Literature, Psychological, Science Fiction, Supernatural, Teen, Thriller, Young Adult

The Door to December

Published: 1985
Author: Dean Koontz (Written as Richard Paige)
Genre: Contemporary, Fiction, Genetic Engineering, Horror, Kidnapping, Literature, Psychological, Science Fiction, Supernatural, Teen, Thriller, Young Adult

Check the summary of this book here:


The Review

Dean Koontz's work The Door to December was first published under the pen name Richard Paige. This is one of Koontz's earliest works, and it has the same fire and thrill as the others. A gripping novel that keeps you guessing about who the horrible culprit is and why this little girl is desired by such a strange variety of individuals. It reminds me of why I've always enjoyed this master of suspense's works.

All of this is already mentioned on the book cover, so I don't consider this a spoiler. Melanie is a nine-year-old girl who was kidnapped by her father when she was three years old. Her father and his collaborators had utilized her for psychological study, particularly in the domain of the unconscious. 

Her father's companions were brutally killed, and her mother Janet, a detective, Dan Haldane, and Earl from a security group are doing everything they can to keep the child safe. 

Because of what was done to her and her mother, she is kind of autistic and a child psychiatrist is working with her to attempt to reverse the damage. 

What is this enigmatic power that is murdering Melanie's abusers and might endanger her as well? How are these heinous crimes taking place, given that the bodies look to be smashed to pieces? There is no weapon at the murder sites, and no clues have been found. 

Dan is determined to keep the mother and girl safe at any cost. Suspense builds throughout, as it does in most Koontz stories, and the answers appear to be something the reader cannot comprehend. 

As is often the case, the primary character is intriguing and, in this case, entertaining. And, as is often the case with my favorites, it takes actual concepts just a foot over the line into the sci-fi realm.

I really liked this book when I read it a long time ago, and I still like it when I read it again. With the release of the new Netflix Original Series "Stranger Things," I felt driven to revisit the book. It's obvious where the series' creators drew their inspiration for the main heroine and her talents.

The Door to December accelerates into every twist and bend like a racing engine. You want to stop reading but can't. You're glued to each page while clinging to your seat. The characters are either likable or despised, and you can tell who you're cheering for straight away. A fantastic book to read on a wet weekend in the mountains or on a lengthy trip. You will not be let down.

I adore Dean Koontz and his thought-provoking works of late. I read this one a long time ago and recently returned to it since it's been so long that I can't remember what happened and I can't write a review without knowing what was in the book. 

I've always liked Koontz's detailed writing, but his works have grown a touch out of hand in the last few years. There is such a thing as overdoing it with the descriptive end of a book, and he's been doing it a lot recently! It does not imply that he is no longer creating wonderful stories; rather, certain readers may not appreciate a lot of description. I don't like it if it's not done correctly, and the good news is that Dean Koontz does it wonderfully. Just read Darkfall, Watchers, Whispers, Phantoms, and his other early hits to see what I mean.

As with nearly all other Dean Koontz works, I just have one complaint: I don't want the books to finish, and even if a book is huge, it feels short at the end.

Koontz is the most learned and insightful author of any popular novelist into the human psyche. He is a guy of wit, confidence in mankind, and dare I say, popularity? A brilliant occult student... the type of intellect that makes the reader believe the unbelievable.

I've read practically all of his books and have been completely hooked by them all. This book seems to outperform all others! Intense, wonderful page-turner, and how he makes it so easy to believe everything is genuine.

When reading or listening to this book at night, leave the light on. Dean Koontz is a brilliant author, and I truly thank him.

As usual, Dean Koontz has produced a masterpiece that is difficult to put down and undermines my attempts to cure my Insomnia. It's not just words; I can't sleep because I am always reading or writing, and when I sleep, I start composing new stories in my sleep and wake up. I believe I was born for this kind of stuff since it doesn't bother me because I can stay up longer and do more if I'm not sleeping. If you haven't read his book Lightning, it's a must-read and my all-time favorite; and that's saying a lot coming from someone who reads a lot of novels.

The protagonists in The Door to December were interesting, and I appreciated the story. There is no dog in this novel, which I missed because Dean Koontz's greatest works usually appeared to have a lovely dog as one of the protagonists. Even if some of the content is disturbing, I would strongly suggest this book.


Final Thoughts

This is one of Dean Koontz's first books that I read. I think I appreciated it more now than I did before because I now have my brother's children at home, and I can actually identify with the characters more than I did before since the children adore me, and I can understand the love between us. 

This novel will appeal to fans of Koontz. If you enjoy sci-fi thrillers, you'll enjoy this book. Even though I knew how it ended, I couldn't put the book down once I started reading it.

This book was fantastic. It's an earlier title that Dean Koontz previously published under a different pen name. I thoroughly loved the book! The only drawback was that I figured out the ending near the end, but even knowing that, I still loved the book and would definitely suggest it.

Dean Koontz provides again another fantastic narrative with tremendous character development. He takes you from the start and pulls you into the story. It's about conspiracy, money, crazy scientists gone bad, innocence taken, and a possible romance.

Dark, gruesome, and frightening. This was a challenging book to read. It involves child abuse and sadomasochism, which may make it difficult to read for some, but it is a fantastic novel. Parts of it are also graphic but still recommended.


Synopsis

“#1 New York Times bestselling author Dean Koontz takes readers into the darkest recesses of the human mind—and into the tempest of a father's obsession.

A call in the middle of the night summoned psychiatrist Laura McCaffrey out into the rain-swept streets of Los Angeles. The police had found her husband-beaten to death. But what of her daughter, Melanie, whom he had kidnapped six years earlier? At the brutal murder scene, the police lead Laura into her husband's makeshift lab—and open the door to a rising tide of terror that has trapped Melanie in its midst...”


Useful Search Related Words & Keywords

Brutally Murdered, Dan Haldane, Edge Of Your Seat, Even Though, Good Read, Great Book, Koontz Books, Little Girl, Page Turner, Six Years, Story Line, Year Old, Years Ago


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

Buy the Kindle Version Here

Free With Free Audible Trial

Phantoms (1998) (R)

The Servants Of Twilight (1991) (R)

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The House of Thunder Review

Dean Koontz, Leigh Nichols, Contemporary, Fiction, Ghost, Horror, Literary, Literature, Suspense, Thriller

The House of Thunder

Published: 1982
Author: Dean Koontz (Written as Leigh Nichols)
Genre: Contemporary, Fiction, Ghost, Horror, Literary, Literature, Psychological, Suspense, Thriller

Check the summary of this book here:


The Review

The House of Thunder is a novel written by best-selling novelist Dean Koontz that was first published under the pen name Leigh Nichols. Few authors write as well as Dean Koontz and Stephen King about unexplained supernatural phenomena. These novels are so well-written and convincing that you almost believe there must be some element of reality in what the author wrote, and you wonder whether he has ever encountered similar occurrences in his personal life or the lives of individuals he knows.

I just forgot about it the first time I purchased it, and I've had this book on my shelf for years and hadn't gotten around to reading it until I realized I hadn't. Yes, it may happen to many avid readers who buy books in bulk, and sometimes a book by a renowned author is pushed to the back or overlooked, as happened with this book. But, at the very least, I was gripped from the start and thoroughly loved every minute of this psychological thriller.

There are some passages of this book that will make your mouth dry and your spine coil with anxiety, and these parts are enough to earn this book excellent marks and recommendations. 

A well-executed film can get a large number of admirers, but I found no film adaptation of this book, or I missed it, and I would be grateful if anybody knows and tells me anything about this issue, since there is no film adaptation of this book to my knowledge.

A gripping story with several twists and turns. When the final storyline is revealed, it is far from what was anticipated. To avoid giving away the ending, suffice it to say it is rather shocking. Dean Koontz is at his best, and the reason he is regarded as a great storyteller.

This novel has some surprising twists and turns. I mean, seriously messed up!! You'll notice things that aren't quite right as you read, but you'll never guess who the evil person is.

If you're seeking for a book that will keep you on the edge of your seat and won't let you put it down. That's what it is!

From start to finish, this is a non-stop thriller. Dean Koontz has created another masterpiece.

Even having a juvenile style, the author's work is effective. A fantastic story! Koontz at his very best! The plot flows well and quickly, keeping you flipping pages late into the night! Author's previous tale-telling is exemplified here.

This may be a tremendous delight for Koontz fans and even people who have never heard of him if that's even conceivable. This is one of his older works, which I like; his glory days in tale world were something to savor. 

When things start to emerge in The House of Thunder, I adore how it truly screws with the reader's psyche. I read this story many years ago and it becomes great and spooky and brings in the thrills. I still remember this story warmly, even after so many years, and I just listened to the audio version; perhaps I'll read it again sometime, but not soon.

I've always enjoyed Dean Koontz's books, and it's possible that I've grown accustomed to his wonderful descriptive writing style and riveting "impossible to put down" tension. 

However, I was underwhelmed with The House Of Thunder until I realized that Koontz had initially released it in 1982 under the pen name Leigh Nichols. So, while it is still a decent read for one of his earlier works, I would want to see him rewrite it with his more mature writing style all these years later.

This is a scary narrative, a proper thriller that builds gradually to create suspense and impact. I appreciated how nothing was obvious, even to me as an avid reader; the author kept me wondering until the very end.

Now, I wasn't a big lover of the conclusion, but that's just my opinion and has nothing to do with how the narrative was written or anything. I planned the tale to continue on the same path, but it altered, which some may like and some will dislike. I didn't care for it, but I can understand why others might.

I've always enjoyed stories that are completed with a big 'twist.' This one just blew my mind. I really recommend that everyone read this one.


Final Thoughts

I can't believe I overlooked this earlier Dean Koontz novel! However, it still reads quite nicely. I've revisited a number of his other novels from the 1980s, and they're much more antiquated now that he gets so technical in his writing. This one, on the other hand, had me wondering till the very end! Excellent.

It took a moment to get into the book, and it appears like Koontz had a page restriction or something on this one since he completed it so quickly, despite the fact that it is not a small book, and I remembered The Mask because this book gave me the same feeling when I finished reading it. 

In a nutshell, I thought it was too short. I won't give anything away, but if you've read Koontz's Key to Midnight, you'll notice numerous parallels to this work.

I loved it and would suggest it to lovers of Dean Koontz. This one appealed to me since it is a true story.

This is a sleep dunker, something I read all night and continued reading the next day in a foggy vision because I was exhausted but happy and reworking the tale in my brain. So, if you want to remain up till 3 a.m., go ahead.

You're continuously trying to figure out what's going on and, if she isn't insane, who is behind it. Of course, I'm not going to ruin the surprise by revealing anything. 

That being said, I can honestly say that I did not anticipate the perpetrator to be who he was. I was hesitant at first because the first paragraph directly beneath "Chapter 1" was "The year was 1980 - an ancient period, so long ago and far away...", but I can honestly say that I liked the book and hope that anybody who enjoys thrillers and mysteries does as well!

Would I suggest The House Of Thunder? Yes, but not to introduce you to Koontz. It's an excellent novel with some great scary moments. 

I suggest it to long-time Koontz fans. It was nice to have only one character's point of view and a less detailed description, like in The Voice Of The Night.


Synopsis

“In a cavern called The House of Thunder, Susan Thornton watched in terror as her lover died a brutal death in a college hazing. And in the following four years, the four young men who participated in that grim fraternity rite likewise died violently. Or did they?

Twelve years later, Susan wakes in a hospital bed. Apparently involved in a fatal accident, she is suffering from amnesia. She does't remember who she is or why she is there. All she knows is that her convalescence is unfolding into a fearful nightmare - and that the faces that surround her, pretending loving care, are those of the four men involved in that murder years ago.

Have the dead come back to life? Or has Susan plunged into the abyss of madness? With the help of her neuro-surgeon, Susan desperately clings to her sanity while fighting to uncover who or what could be stalking her.”


Useful Search Related Words & Keywords

Car Accident, Cold War, Ever Read, Leigh Nichols, Susan Thornton, Susan Thorton, Twists And Turns, Wakes Up In A Hospital, Years Ago


Rating: 85/100
Recommended: 100/100 Yes.

Free With Free Audible Trial

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