Forever Odd
Published: 2005
Author: Dean Koontz
Genre: Action, Fantasy, Fiction, Ghost, Humor, Psychic, Psychological, Psychology, Suspense, Thriller
Book 2 of 7: Odd Thomas
Check the summary of this book here:
The Review
Dean Koontz's novel Forever Odd is the sequel to Odd Thomas. The story picks up six months after the events of Odd Thomas. This is an excellent continuation of the story, and I am confident that all readers will eagerly await the subsequent installments. The narrative mechanics, which are always a strength for Koontz, are excellent, as are the characterizations, which are vivid and well-drawn.
Koontz understands how to transform dramatic and hazardous circumstances into page-turners. The Odd Thomas series, on the other hand, is almost totally dependent on how you feel about the main character and if he is likable and consistent. This second book in the series achieves this quite effectively for the most part, and I have no reservations in recommending it, as well as the series as a whole.
Dean Koontz's writing has moved from tense horror fiction to something considerably larger at some point in his career. The literary elite may disagree, but this reader would confidently compare a page from this book to a page from any of today's critically renowned literary literature and argue that the accuracy of word choice and poetry of expression would more than hold its own. So would the book's philosophical material, notably his case for envy as man's original sin, as well as Odd's therapeutic power of passivity and steadfast honesty in the face of extreme emotional agony.
The flipside of Koontz's growth is that admirers of his earlier work may believe that Forever Odd's increased attention on character and subject comes at the price of narrative, intricacy, and general creepiness.
While the narrative of this work should have been better explored, the terror octane is undeniably strong.
Indeed, the earthquake and fire-ravaged Indian casino that serves as the background for most of the novel evokes a degree of terror comparable to Stephen King's hotel in The Shining. And the spooks that haunt it, whether alive, dead or undead, would hold their own against the residents of Mr. King's Overlook Hotel.
So, if you want to be afraid but not feel guilty about it, Forever Odd and its first part Odd Thomas will serve you just as well as anything since Edgar Allan Poe.
After seeing the film Odd Thomas, which I truly loved, I decided to extend my delight by reading the novels. The main character is endearing. He was presented in the film as someone I'd like to get to know better. He is a down-to-earth, uncomplicated young man with exceptional abilities that he grudgingly employs.
I would strongly advise you to see the film in order to acquire a decent sense of the main character. I really hope there would be another Odd Thomas film, but in the meanwhile, there are numerous more novels in the series to enjoy.
But I still believe that you should think of both mediums as separate things in order to experience them as they should be.
The novel's events take place over the course of one action-packed day, during which Odd risks several perils to assist a friend.
I do not believe this book is as wonderful as Koontz's first novel in this series, Odd Thomas; nevertheless, I did like it quite a bit, which does not imply that this book is just acceptable since it is fantastic, but it is not a blockbuster if compared to the first book.
The first novel exposes the reader to a colorful ensemble of people. The eccentric residents of Odd's community are what made the novel so enjoyable, and the narrative was intricate and cryptic, giving the required tension.
It was so action-packed that if it had been dragged out, it would have been really long, but the author chose to keep it tight, which is sort of great in that respect, even if I wanted more out of this story.
You never know what Odd will get himself into. This one starts on the first page. I was taken aback by how soon I was exposed to the primary plot.
I was also intrigued by how the sequel would be different without Stormy. I don't think I've really recovered from the conclusion of Book one. However, there were some wonderful nods to their connection.
Even though I want Odd to develop and be able to move on, I'd like to hear about her in the following novels as well.
This is without a doubt one of my favorite series, which I have finished and still want more of. It's terrifying, but it's also entertaining. You've gotten an excellent blend. In addition, you receive Dean Koontz's writing. There's nothing to complain about.
I can't help but add another wonderful series, even though they're completely different but I'm sure dedicated readers would enjoy: the Percy Jackson series by Rick Riordan.
If you like Koontz's first Odd Thomas book, you must continue reading. Odd's second adventure is relentless, as a good page-turner should be.
Koontz tells a really grim story with amazing comedy and wit, so there is never a dull moment, and you simply keep reading to see what happens to Odd next.
Final Thoughts
In simple words this book was fantastic. The story's flow was excellent, and it maintained my attention throughout. Dean Koontz has always been a favorite of mine, and this novel does not disappoint.
In simple words, Forever Odd is wonderful, however, I felt the first book was a little better since I couldn't put it down. However, once I got far into it, I couldn't put it down either. I rushed out and bought Brother Odd as soon as I completed this, so it is definitely worth the read.
This novel, on the other hand, concentrates almost entirely on Odd, who is alone for large portions of the narration. The narrative is less enigmatic and more of an action-packed adventure.
The villain was a little more fascinating than the antagonists in the first part, but the total entertainment value has been reduced because Odd's incredibly interesting companions have receded into the background.
The narration's tone is another facet of this book that will either please or irritate readers. Odd brutally mocks the politically correct establishment's holy cows in the narrative. These are the enjoyable sections if you think above the reality and enjoy this as a fantasy novel.
The book is really well written and has excellent illustrations in terms of word choice. The main character, which was nicely developed in the previous novel, is even more developed in this one.
I appreciate reading stories in which the main character or characters appear in almost all of them. They become like long-lost friends. A must read book and series for Koontz fans and I recommend it to non fans as well.
Synopsis
“NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER
I see dead people. But then, by God, I do something about it. Odd Thomas never asked for his special ability. He’s just an ordinary guy trying to live a quiet life in the small desert town of Pico Mundo. Yet he feels an obligation to do right by his otherworldly confidants, and that’s why he’s won hearts on both sides of the divide between life and death. But when a childhood friend disappears, Odd discovers something worse than a dead body and embarks on a heart-stopping battle of will and wits with an enemy of exceptional cunning. In the hours to come there can be no innocent bystanders, and every sacrifice can tip the balance between despair and hope.
You’re invited on an unforgettable journey through a world of terror and transcendence to wonders beyond imagining. And you can have no better guide than Odd Thomas.”
Useful Search Related Words & Keywords
Dead People, Looking Forward, Main Character, Page Turner, Pico Mundo, Psychic Magnetism, Second Book, Story Line, Thomas Series
Rating: 90/100
Recommended: 100/100 Yes.
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