https://discord.com/invite/eTZuVZXycX https://www.facebook.com/Book.Reviews.by.Namsu https://www.instagram.com/namsu_corp https://www.pinterest.com/namsucorps https://www.reddit.com/r/Book_Reviews_by_Namsu https://alltop.com/my/Namsu https://twitter.com/NamsuCorp https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_pSnAi4ji3dx8HWMpHmYBQ

Showing posts with label Supernatural. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Supernatural. Show all posts

Winter Moon Review

Dean Koontz, Aaron Wolfe, Alien Invasion, Crime, Family Life, Fiction, Ghost, Horror, Literature, Paranormal, Rural, Small Town, Supernatural, Suspense, Thriller, Zombie

Winter Moon

Published: 1975 (as Invasion) - 1994 (as Winter Moon)
Author: Dean Koontz (Written as Aaron Wolfe)
Genre: Alien Invasion, Crime, Family Life, Fiction, Ghost, Horror, Literature, Paranormal, Rural, Small Town, Supernatural, Suspense, Thriller, Zombie

Check the summary of this book here:


The Review

Dean Koontz's 1975 horror-thriller Invasion was initially published under the pen name Aaron Wolfe. Koontz reissued the book under the title Winter Moon in 1994, with additions and improvements. Winter Moon is the current title under which the book may be purchased.

The Winter Moon is broken into two halves. Chapters one through thirteen are included in Part One: The City of the Dying Day. Chapters fourteen through twenty-two form Part Two: The Land of the Winter Moon.

I honestly forgot I was reading Dean Koontz and thought it was a Stephen King novel because it reads nearly exactly as if King wrote it, and if someone discovers a copy without the cover and information that it was written by Koontz, that person will undoubtedly assume it was a King novel. That should be enough to convey what was going on in this work, as well as how fascinating and bizarre the story must be. A fantastic present for Dean Koontz and Stephen King followers.

Winter Moon was a fantastic book for me. I think it was a brilliant idea to alter the title from Invasion to Winter Moon because the story takes place in the winter. 

Koontz alternates between writing supernatural horror fiction and thrillers. This is unquestionably among the former. 

The writing is excellent, as always. The characters are nicely developed, and I didn't mind moving between scenes in Los Angeles and those in Montana in the first half of the novel. I knew the characters in both areas would ultimately interact because they weaved a fantastic plot. The second part of the novel combined the two storylines into a single engrossing conflict between good and monster evil.

One of the moments where one character opens the door and sees a familiar person standing in front can be a heart attack triggering moment for the character as well as the reader or audience if it was a movie. But I'm not going to say anything else about it except that I enjoyed it.

A metropolitan street in Los Angeles is transformed into a fiery Armageddon. A weird entity invades a woodland in a remote part of Montana. Neither the living nor the dead are safe when these events collide and spiral out of control.

The plot is compelling, and the dialogue and descriptions are as we've come to expect from this author, but it's tough to suspend disbelief in some of the creature's otherworldly features and skills. In several places, I also thought it was overly gruesome. For Koontz lovers, it's still an interesting narrative that's definitely worth reading.

I've heard some of my reader friends complain that it's a book with unbelievable things happening in it, and they didn't enjoy it because of that, and I've merely informed them by saying... Yes, it is difficult to believe what is occurring in many instances, but remember that this is a fantasy and fiction book, so if you got it without understanding what genre it is, it is your fault, so just have fun reading or gift it to someone who likes this type of material.

The primary characters, Jack and his family, are quite endearing. They are storing people, and I found myself reading their ideas and feeling the same way about things in life. 

Koontz is a fantastic writer whose words evoke the ultimate terror of the unknown. I admired the child's ingenuity yet lamented the loss of innocence.

Eduardo is an elderly guy who lives alone on Quatermass ranch, distant from any towns or people, and he discovers strange things. Animals acting strangely around him, dirt and odor in his home, terrifying pulsing, and noises that become stronger and stronger.

I think it can be difficult to read at night, especially if you are alone, as the old guy was, and I practically had to remind myself to breathe as he continued uncovering things. After all, it was a good read, another good novel from Koontz.

It can be frightening, as I indicated earlier about the lonely old guy and not reading the book at night, so keep the lights on if you dare to read such passages.

I wish the conclusion was a little longer and the book had a few dozen more pages, but at least the author gave some kind of hint that if he wants, he can write a sequel to it, but I'm still waiting after all these years.

I can make a connection between this book and another, but just in the backdrop of this narrative and not actually related. If you like Stephen King's The Tommyknockers, you will most likely enjoy this. The novel is quite entertaining. It was another of the King's works that I enjoyed, so I'm sure you'll enjoy this old classic as well. It was also about a form of invasion, so just try it and watch the movie, which was also not bad.


Final Thoughts

I enjoy Dean Koontz's writings, and one of the themes in many of his novels is the interconnectedness of individuals, a sense of belonging to a larger picture. He draws strangers together to fight evil and defend what is good and true. This book's strongest feature is its sense of interconnectivity. 

In more than one way, the McGarvey family is linked to Eduardo Fernandez. Fernandez's son died in the line of duty but had enormous regard and affection for McGarvey, and Fernandez himself maintains the link. 

Eduardo's generosity allows the McGarveys to fight evil with Eduardo even though he is not physically present with them.

I really like this book and wanted to give it a perfect score, but I couldn't since it appears to take heavily from previous works, notably Phantoms, which may lead many of my readers to believe I'm prejudiced. 

As a result, it is rather formulaic. I still had a great time with it and couldn't put it down. Another thing that can be mentioned about this topic is that it is a book that can obtain full marks if you are not an ardent reader and have never read novels that are comparable to it, particularly Dean Koontz's own works and Stephen King's books. So have fun and marvel at this lovely gem.

This story begins with what could be described as a conventional police action thriller. The injuries, healing, and escape from the hazards of life in a large metropolis with numerous difficulties seemed reassuring. At first, I was skeptical about how well this novel would go.

The good fortune of being given a home in the woods of a distant state appeared ideal. Unfortunately, obtaining a windfall is not always as beneficial as it appears. Things might undoubtedly become much worse, but as the situation worsens, an unexpected avenue to escape the misery emerges.

This novel really lived up to my expectations, which was a good thing. I highly suggest this book.


Synopsis

“"Koontz is brilliant in the creation of his characters and in building tension."
CHICAGO SUN-TIMES

In Los Angeles, a hot Hollywood director, high on PCP, turns a city street into a fiery apocalypse. Heroic LAPD officer Jac McGarvey is badly wounded and will not walk for months. His wife and his child are left to fend for themselves against both criminals that control an increasingly violent city and the dead director's cult of fanatic fans.

In a lonely corner of Montana, Eduardo Fernandez, the father of McGarvey's murdered partner, witnesses a strange nocturnal sight. The stand of pines outside his house suddenly glows with eerie amber light, and Fernandez senses a watcher in the winter woods. As the seasons change, the very creatures of the forest seem in league with a mysterious presence. Fernandez is caught up in a series of chilling incidents that escalate toward a confronation that could rob him of his sanity or his life--or both.

As events careen out of control, the McGarvey family is drawn to Fernandez's Montana ranch. In that isolated place they discover their destiny in a terrifying and fiercely suspenseful encounter with a hostile, utterly ruthless, and enigmatic enemy, from which neither the living nor the dead are safe.

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


Useful Search Related Words & Keywords

Good Read, Half Of The Book, Jack McGarvey, Keeps You Turning, Koontz Books, Los Angeles, Page Turner, Police Officer, Years Ago


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)

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
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.
Help me grow into a global force: https://www.patreon.com/namsu
Support with crypto coins/tokens: https://cointr.ee/namsu
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

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)

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
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.
Help me grow into a global force: https://www.patreon.com/namsu
Support with crypto coins/tokens: https://cointr.ee/namsu
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

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)

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
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.
Help me grow into a global force: https://www.patreon.com/namsu
Support with crypto coins/tokens: https://cointr.ee/namsu
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

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)

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
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.
Help me grow into a global force: https://www.patreon.com/namsu
Support with crypto coins/tokens: https://cointr.ee/namsu
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Lightning Review

Dean Koontz, Contemporary, Crime, Fiction, Horror, Literary, Literature, Science Fiction, Supernatural, Suspense, Thriller, Time Travel

Lightning

Published: 1988
Author: Dean Koontz
Genre: Contemporary, Crime, Fiction, Horror, Literary, Literature, Science Fiction, Supernatural, Suspense, Thriller, Time Travel

Check the summary of this book here:


The Review

Dean Koontz's book Lightning was published in 1988. A new Afterword by the author discusses editorial dynamics in a 2003 edition. A storm hit the night Laura Shane was born, and the weather was unusual in a way that people would remember for years. The blond-haired man who emerged out of nowhere to save Laura from catastrophe was even more mysterious. And I had a feeling it will be a time travel novel that I will enjoy because I am a sucker for everything "time travel."

Dean Koontz's work with his Odd Thomas series was fantastic, and I thoroughly appreciated those works. Lightning shares several of the same qualities of that series, including outstanding characters, a tight, fast-paced storyline, edge-of-your-seat intensity, and, mercifully, a happy ending. 

In fact, the suspense was often so intense that I had to put the book down for a few moments to collect my breath. Even though one of my favorite characters died, this book was everything I love about this genre. I won't say who died or why, but I believe this story had a happy conclusion for me, which may not be the case for other readers because it is a decision that each reader has.

Here's a breakdown of how time travel works in this novel; I loved some of the concepts, but I don't want to see that type of difficult system in genuine time travel. I believe it is and will be feasible to time travel in some form, and I am confident it is still occurring. If you study and investigate a little, you will discover numerous incidents that will verify my point. Try searching or Googling "Mandela Effect" and you'll be shocked by what you find.

The Nazi time machine is described in the novel as looking like a tunnel; when the necessary mathematical calculations are performed, the machine is set, and the traveler walks inside and vanishes, reappearing with some degree of precision at the physical and temporal place chosen. To make time travel operate, there are a lot of unique elements and physics.

The fictitious world lends credence to the argument that nature will not allow a contradiction, even meeting oneself, to exist. Furthermore, time can only be traveled towards the future to avoid the "Back to the Future" syndrome of preventing one's own existence by previous deeds. 

The energy utilized to travel across time affects the natural environment upon arriving at the desired period and location, resulting in tremendous inexplicable lightning storms (thus the title of the book). The return from the future to the present does not result in a lightning storm.

Regardless of how long the traveler spends at his destination, he will have spent precisely 11 minutes (Something similar was used in Stephen King's 11/22/63, but I do not consider it a copy or stolen idea) when he returns to his own time stream (through a push-button mechanism often disguised in a belt buckle). 

Changes done at one moment in time will have an effect on all future occurrences originating from that timeline; nevertheless, only the traveler will be aware that anything has changed because his own past has not been affected. 

As previously established, a time traveler cannot return to a temporal location he has already visited (even if it is to a different physical location), because he will technically still be there, creating a contradiction.

Now, regarding that thinking cap: there is one part of this book that made me believe that I should be taking notes from time to time, and that aspect is time travel and the physics that allow it to happen, according to this author. To be honest, I had to reread a number of portions to ensure that I understood everything. This is not a critique; rather, it is a beautiful aspect of a really pleasant work. I'd rather do some rereading to comprehend anything than rush through something that resembles literary fluff.

Another thing I did was read the author's Afterword at the conclusion of the book. I loved his insights into the writer's world and the types of against-the-grain efforts he frequently had to do to publish works that pleased both him and his fans. 

Not all novels can easily get high stars, ratings, or points, but I felt this book to be worth every point on every point. 

Chris, DannyLaura, Stefan, and Thelma are all characters I grew to care about, and I admire Mr. Koontz's efforts in developing them. If you read the evaluations, you'll notice that I admire your perseverance in sticking to your convictions and writing the kinds of novels you enjoy.

This tale piques your interest right away and continues to surprise you throughout the journey. What a fantastic book, full of adventure, mystery, and tension, as well as terrific comedy that readers will not only enjoy but also appreciate. The plot takes an unexpected turn that you won't soon forget.

It was incredibly thrilling for me. There's amazing scientific complexity mixed in with various romantic narratives, humor and sarcasm, and Dean Koontz's unique ability to explain things so beautifully that you can imagine the sights in your head almost as if they were movies. I can't recommend this book enough. You will be surprised, riveted, and hooked the entire time.


Final Thoughts

This is a lighthearted and engaging tale with a unique take on the time-travel genre. Dean Koontz immerses us in Laura Shane's world. We observe that someone continues intruding in her life at critical junctures. We have no clue why or how this happened. Finally, we discover that her mystery benefactor is not from our era, but his real location is a great surprise.

This is also an alternate history novel. Ironically, this book was published in 1989, thus events a few years later and the demise of the Soviet Union would reveal history reverting to the pattern with which he concludes this book.

This was a very interesting novel that was well worth the money, as Koontz is always. His stories are often more complex than you think. I've now finished all of his series and have been rewarded with his quick wit, superb story-telling, and works that I will read again and again. Loved returning to "Lightning," pick it up. Excellent reading!

Dean Koontz demonstrates his command of his distinct genre of literature once more. This time, the protagonist is a woman, and sadly there is no dog in this novel. His point of view is constantly new and fascinating. Suspenseful and fascinating, this novel is recommended for Koontz aficionados and anyone interested in trying his work for the first time.


Synopsis

“#1 New York Times bestselling author Dean Koontz’s brilliantly thrilling novel of suspense.

In the midst of a raging blizzard, lightning struck on the night Laura Shane was born. And a mysterious blond-haired stranger showed up just in time to save her from dying.

Years later, in the wake of another storm, Laura will be saved again. For someone is watching over her. Is he the guardian angel he seems? The devil in disguise? Or the master of a haunting destiny beyond all time and space?

“A gripping novel…fast-paced and satisfying.”—People”


Useful Search Related Words & Keywords

Edge Of Your Seat, Guardian Angel, Koontz Books, Laura Shane, Page Turner, Twists And Turns, Years Ago


Rating: 95/100
Recommended: 100/100 Yes.

Buy the Kindle Version Here

Free With Free Audible Trial

Phantoms (1998) (R)

The Servants Of Twilight (1991) (R)

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
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.
Help me grow into a global force: https://www.patreon.com/namsu
Support with crypto coins/tokens: https://cointr.ee/namsu
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

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 DarkfallWatchers, 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)

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
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.
Help me grow into a global force: https://www.patreon.com/namsu
Support with crypto coins/tokens: https://cointr.ee/namsu
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Twilight Eyes Review

Dean Koontz, American, Crime, Fiction, Ghost, Horror, Literature, Psychic, Shape Shifter, Supernatural, Thriller

Twilight Eyes

Published: 1987
Author: Dean Koontz
Genre: American, Crime, Fiction, Ghost, Horror, Literature, Psychic, Shape Shifter, Supernatural, Thriller

Check the summary of this book here:


The Review

Twilight Eyes is a novel written by Dean Koontz that was first published in 1985 by Land of Enchantment and then extended in 1987 by Berkley. Throughout the novel, a character known only as "Slim MacKenzie" used his psychic abilities to pursue Goblins, a type of creature that appears to be capable of impersonating humans.

I am a huge Dean Koontz fan, and I truly mean it since I have read practically all of his works, as well as those of Stephen King, Anne Rice, and many other greats. I've read some really good and some really bad novels, but I've never read a bad novel by any of the great authors I've just mentioned or many others that I did not. Yes, it's true that sometimes a story or two can feel bad even if it isn't because readers expect a perfect experience every time, which is humanly impossible to provide.

This book is fantastic!! I generally read novels more than once but owing to time restrictions, I just finished it for the third time in audio format. I enjoy these characters, the setting, and the story, which never gets old. I'd love to see this made into a picture, but I'm glad Mr. Koontz turned down those who didn't want to create the story as it is. Maybe it can still happen... the current "IT" adaptation by Stephen King was wonderful and so faithful to the original novel, so I have confidence!

I've grown so accustomed to Dean Koontz in recent years; his newer work, in my opinion, leaves a lot to be desired and is unduly sanctimonious to boot. I have a stronger fondness for his early work, particularly Twilight Eyes

This is one of those rare novels that I can revisit every few years and like it just as much as the first time I read it. It distinguishes out from the majority of Koontz's writing, mostly because he avoids most of the hallmarks that he brings to practically everything he writes.

The majority of Koontz's books are set in California, feature protagonists in their thirties, a dog, particularly a Golden Retriever, which Koontz appears to believe is the most noble being in the animal kingdom, and a psychopathic human villain whose point of view is elaborately depicted, with extensive justification for his atrocious acts. 

Instead of Koontz's usual thirty-somethings, the hero and heroine in this story are just out of their twenties, and the action takes place on the east coast, mostly in the Pennsylvania coal-mining region. 

Not only does the action take place outside of Koontz's preferred southern California setting, but it is also set in the past: the early 1960s, most likely due to the impossibility of having a freak show in this carnival if it had been set in the 1980s when such attractions were no longer considered socially acceptable. 

One of his hallmarks that he does use here is the "heroine with the tragic childhood," as well as the "patient and understanding hero who helps the heroine overcome her traumatic background." Nonetheless, these traits are less heavy-handed than in some of his earlier writings, and he's not quite as sanctimonious as he became later in his career.

The story itself is intriguing, with the teenaged hero sensing the presence of beings he refers to as "goblins," who can perfectly disguise themselves as ordinary humans but are filled with hatred and loathing of humanity, and derive their sole pleasure from the anguish and suffering they inflict on the ordinary humans around them. 

After killing one of them in his hometown, the main character flees to join a traveling carnival, eternally cutting himself off from "straight" society and forcing him to forge a life for himself among the carnies. This eventually comes in handy for him throughout his war against the goblins.

The carnival atmosphere also helps to distinguish this novel from Koontz's normal fare and makes it intriguing in its own right. The reason for the presence of the goblins is scientific rather than magical, and even though it is extremely unlikely, one can easily suspend disbelief and enjoy the narrative. Overall, I suggest it as one of Koontz's most odd and amusing stories.

This book was published in two distinct editions. The original hardcover publication only included the first half of the narrative. The whole text was published in paperback for the first time in America. The hardcover was initially produced in a limited edition with four variants:
-1- Trade Hardcover
-2- Collector's Edition - # 1 through 50
-3- Signature Edition - # 51 through 250
-4- Lettered Edition - 24 copies marked A through Y

The trade hardback was released without the patterned leatherette slipcase that accompanied the numerous autographed versions. 

The Signature Edition, Collector's Edition, and Lettered Edition all have a limitation page signed by Dean Koontz and illustrator Phil Parks. 

The Collector's Edition was the same as the Signature Edition save for a special inscription by Koontz and an original drawing by Parks. Koontz, Parks, and publisher Christopher shared the 24-copy Lettered Edition.


Final Thoughts

This is a thrilling rollercoaster ride. Dean Koontz transforms the ills of reality into demon monsters from our dreams, displaying the basic frailty of the human condition. 

He transmits the light and power of our better selves in his stories without leaving out our flaws, providing relief from the realities of our existence. 

You can almost imagine yourself in the scenario from his descriptions. As always, I enjoy his works' mystical elements. This one was no different. The narrative was fantastic.

Twilight Eyes was the first of numerous books by Koontz that I read. I came across the book in an antique and used book store, and the cover immediately drew my interest. After becoming a Koontz fan, I discovered that the author has been interested in carnivals since boyhood, and it shows in this novel. 

The plot revolves around Slim MacKenzie, a young man with the talent of Twilight Eyes. The novel draws you into the lives of a carnie and a youngster who sees what few can, the actual identity of those who live on Earth. 

After the first chapter, Koontz pulls you straight into the plot, something he excels at. The carnival and its characters are "rich" and authentic. You can smell the cotton candy and feel the dust from the carnival pathways in your lungs. 

The "Demons" are also well shown, and the excitement of conflicts between Slim and these terrible things is high. 

The plot progresses at a leisurely and steady pace, and while the finale may have been better, this is still one of my favorite Koontz novels to date. 

If you enjoy carnivals as I do or want to go into Dean Koontz's universe, I definitely recommend this book.

Twilight Eyes, Lightning, Darkfall, Odd Thomas series, and The Bad Place are among a few of my personal favorites. Twilight Eyes' narrative premise is not only intriguing but it is also thought stimulating. 

Twilight Eyes is highly recommended. There are some sections of the work that are vividly and nearly visually explicit. Simply read it, and I'm confident you'll appreciate it.


Synopsis

“In this chilling thriller from #1 New York Times bestselling author Dean Koontz, the carnival is coming to town—and it's like nothing you've ever seen.

Slim MacKenzie is no ordinary man. With eyes the color of twilight, he’s been blessed with a psychic gift: premonitions. He’s also been cursed, for Slim can see the monsters hiding among us, feeding on our suffering...

And when Slim joins a traveling carnival seeking sanctuary, what he’ll find is a hunting ground—with humanity as the prey.”


Useful Search Related Words & Keywords

Ability To See, Highly Recommend, Joel Tuck, Koontz At His Best, Koontz Books, Second Half, Slim Mackenzie, Stephen King, Years Ago, Young Man


Rating: 95/100
Recommended: 100/100 Yes.

Buy the Kindle Version Here

Free With Free Audible Trial

Phantoms (1998) (R)

The Servants Of Twilight (1991) (R)

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
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.
Help me grow into a global force: https://www.patreon.com/namsu
Support with crypto coins/tokens: https://cointr.ee/namsu
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Follow This Blog