Forever Odd Review

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:

Forever Odd Summary

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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Odd Thomas Review

Odd Thomas

Published: 2003

Author: Dean Koontz

Genre: Action, Crime, Espionage, Fiction, Ghost, Horror, Murder, Occult, Psychic, Suspense, Thriller

Book 1 of 7: Odd Thomas

Check the summary of this book here:

Odd Thomas Summary

The Review

Dean Koontz's novel Odd Thomas is a thriller. The title is derived from the main character, Odd Thomas, a twenty-year-old short-order cook. The book, which got positive reviews and acclaim from reviewers, went on to become a New York Times bestseller. Following the popularity of the novel, Koontz wrote six sequels: Forever Odd (2005), Brother Odd (2006), Odd Hours (2008), Odd Apocalypse (2012), and Deeply Odd (2013). Saint Odd (2015), the concluding novel in the series, was released on January 13, 2015. 

Three graphic novel prequels have also been released: In Odd We Trust, Odd Is On Our Side and House of Odd. 

In the graphic novel's postscript, Koontz notes, "God willing, there will be six Odd Thomas novels." Odd Interlude, a special Odd Thomas Adventure short novel, was released on December 26, 2012, and Odd Thomas: You Are Destined to Be Together Forever was released on December 9, 2014. 

Dean Koontz praised the film, saying, "It is so wonderful that I am whacked flat by happiness." So I'm not going to comment on it, but it wasn't a bad film adaptation of Dean Koontz's novel.

Strange in name and odd in talents, the titular character is Odd. A twenty-year-old short-order fry cook who has the gift or misfortune of seeing the dead. He resides in Pico Mundo, a tiny California desert hamlet that translates as "top of the world." 

At first, I assumed our hero's name was Thomas, and Odd was an accurate description of him. 

In the first several chapters, he immediately dispels this myth. Odd is the moniker given to him, and despite his boring employment and lowly surroundings, our poor MC's life has been anything but simple. 

This narrative appears to be a slice of what Odd has been through since infancy, but his current journey threatens to ruin all he loves most.

In most stories when the main character possesses a remarkable ability, he or she is seldom, if ever, believed. 

Odd has a great support network and many friends, including the chief of police, which I admire. Police officers are generally the last people to fall for such nonsense, but Chief Porter does. He's like Odd's father, something our young hero obviously needs. Odd doesn't have to face the weight of his skill on his own. It's not a fully hidden ability; it's just an ability.

People who know him not only accept that he has it, but also trust him with it, and his friends are as diverse as they are: Viola and her daughters Nicolina and Levanna, Terry his boss with her Elvis obsession, his landlady Rosalia Sanchez, who asks him every day if she is visible, the previously mentioned Chief Porter and his wife Karla, Little Ozzie, who is probably the biggest man in town, and, of course, Stormy Llewellyn. While they have no idea what he is capable of, they all recognize that he is Odd.

He exemplifies the theme of hiding power in simple settings, in which we frequently see the orphan or foundling who was abandoned or hidden in order to conceal and protect who they are and what they have. 

Odd is also quite courteous, which I appreciated, especially coming from a young person who is frequently and tritely characterized as rude. He addresses everyone as "sir" or "ma'am," and he shows no disrespect to anyone.

Odd's skills show themselves as a tiny girl named Penny Kalisto, which immediately draws you in. Even if the dead never speak to him, they have a way of making themselves known.

The ones that remain are there for a reason, and Odd believes it is his responsibility to figure out what that reason is. His ability to see the dead isn't his only one, but I won't tell you what it is.

Despite the fact that I figured out the key twist well before the last chapter, I still gave this story high points and immediately began reading the following novel, Forever Odd, as soon as I was able to purchase it, and then the next and the next until I finished the series. 

As I previously stated, the movie is not horrible, but it is recommended that you watch it after reading the book and solely watch it as a movie rather than as an adaptation so that you may appreciate both media equally.

Odd Thomas's melancholy is palpable. It is the root of every phrase and hides between each word. If we don't allow ourselves to hope, we won't be able to persevere.

Many readers have a curious issue with Dean Koontz's works, which is his closing up all loose ends at the conclusion, and I am surprised that many people don't want that... on the other hand, many people have an issue with Stephen King for not tying up many ends and even leaving the plot open-ended. 

What is wrong with these readers, and what do they want? I am a fan of both of these excellent authors, and I enjoy both of their ending methods because they make you think. Comment and share your ideas on this topic so that we may discuss it further.

Final Thoughts

The protagonist is complex and realistic. The plot is pretty brilliant. This sentence appears in practically every review of a great author's work, but it is accurate, and that phrase is... Once I started reading it, I couldn't put it down. 

 Please be advised that there are some unsettling and violent situations in this book and this book is not suitable for youngsters or early teens.

Where the film pays justice to the novel, this delves further into Odd's thoughts and feelings because it is told by him and tells us about his past. 

Odd Thomas has the capacity to sense "the lingering dead," and using this and other abilities, he finds a coming calamity and tries everything he can to avert it. 

The story's conclusion comes on strong and quick, and it's a page-turner. Even if this book isn't for everyone, it's a novel that anybody might appreciate. 

I'm glad the book has a conclusion and that the reader isn't obligated to read the rest of the series. 

However, there are certain questions that will be answered in the coming novels, and I am confident that readers will like them.

Odd Thomas is unquestionably one of Dean Koontz's best-written novels. The narrator's voice is great, and the narrative flows beautifully. 

The finale contains a fantastic emotional surprise that will leave the reader speechless. This is a fantastic read! Dean Koontz, thank you.

Synopsis

“Meet Odd Thomas, the unassuming young hero of Dean Koontz’s dazzling New York Times bestseller, a gallant sentinel at the crossroads of life and death who offers up his heart in these pages and will forever capture yours.

“The dead don’t talk. I don’t know why.” But they do try to communicate, with a short-order cook in a small desert town serving as their reluctant confidant. Sometimes the silent souls who seek out Odd want justice. Occasionally their otherworldly tips help him prevent a crime. But this time it’s different.

A stranger comes to Pico Mundo, accompanied by a horde of hyena-like shades who herald an imminent catastrophe. Aided by his soul mate, Stormy Llewellyn, and an unlikely community of allies that includes the King of Rock ’n’ Roll, Odd will race against time to thwart the gathering evil. His account of these shattering hours, in which past and present, fate and destiny, converge, is a testament by which to live—an unforgettable fable for our time destined to rank among Dean Koontz’s most enduring works.”

Useful Search Related Words & Keywords

Addison Timlin, Anton Yelchin, Dead People, Fry Cook, Fungus Man, Highly Recommend, Howard Kaplan, John Baldecchi, Looking Forward, Nico Tortorella, Patton Oswalt, Pico Mundo, Rlj Entertainment, Sees Dead, Sixth Sense, Stephen Sommers, Thomas Series, Well Written, Willem Dafoe, Young Man

Rating: 95/100

Recommended: 100/100 Yes.

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Odd Thomas (2014) (16+)

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Frankenstein: The Dead Town Review

Frankenstein: The Dead Town

Published: 24, May 2011

Author: Dean Koontz

Genre: American, Fiction, Ghost, Horror, Literature, Supernatural, Suspense, Thriller

Book 05 of 05: Frankenstein

Check the summary of this book here:

Frankenstein: The Dead Town Summary

The Review

The Dead Town is the fifth and last novel in Dean Koontz's Frankenstein series, and I hope he writes more for it because it is one of my favorites and is based on one of my favorite characters, Frankenstein by Mary Shelley. The book debuted at number one on the New York Times Paperback Bestseller list. Charnel House also released special lettered and numbered hardback copies.

I was saddened by the end of this book since I had previously predicted that it would be the series finale, and that is exactly what occurred, but I am still hoping that a new book in this series will be released eventually.

The Dead Town was a good read. Koontz's ability to bring characters to life is what keeps me going back for more. Carson and Michael are as sharp as ever. Erika and Jocko's eccentricities continue to amuse. 

In this novel, Deucalion excels. And Victor Immaculate, who was only briefly seen earlier, demonstrates the mentality of ultimate power and extreme arrogance that characterizes him. 

A lot of secondary characters got a lot of action, which has both good and negative qualities but isn't a horrible plot.

I've always associated with the monster in Mary Shelley's Frankenstein since I was a child. I was curious to learn more about him. Not his creator, who I believed was arrogant in creating him and then neglectful in equipping the creature for the environment he was to live in. 

Dean Koontz's figure, Deucalion, fully answers my question: What happened to the creature? In the fifth and last book in his series, we find Deucalion, Carson, and Michael Maddison in Rainbow Falls, Montana, on the hunt for Victor Frankenstein's clone, Victor Immaculate, who is hell-bent on destroying humanity. The plot continues from where book four, Lost Souls, left off.

Erika and Jocko are also present in the plot, although not in the thick of the action. Jocko is a big part of the comedy. 

Mr. Lyss, the reprobate vagabond who has taken in Nummy, a mentally challenged young guy, has some very humorous lines to offer as well. 

That's not to suggest the plot isn't intriguing; it is. The viciousness of Victor Immaculate's Communitarians, the copies that are placed in place of people who are slain, and his Builders, the nanotechnology monsters who consume the bodies and generate new builders, keep the suspense tense, and the terror element is equally strong.

This Frankenstein book series was fantastic. I've liked them since the beginning, and all I ask is that Koontz continues writing more, although I must admit that the third novel Dead And Alive may be my least favorite of these five since it had me wait so long for the fourth novel Lost Souls, but it was just as wonderful as the rest of the series.

And once again, Koontz manages to combine pressure and fear with humor—however, I have no idea how he does it because nobody else seems to be able to do it unless we forget about Stephen King, and I am shocked that I always talk about him shamelessly whenever I talk about great writing and amazing authors, regardless of what others think of him.

The characters arrive after the tension, dread, and humor! I adore thrillers for the sheer pleasure of reading them. However, many of them include characters with less-than-ideal characteristics. There are more sorts than persons.

However, Koontz not only builds personalities with complexity, but I also care about them. If you don't like Jocko, well, I can't think of anyone who doesn't enjoy Jocko.

Now, let's talk about this book in detail. Koontz manages to deviate rationally from his original point once again. The most recent batch of clones is riddled with flaws, much like the first, but in different ways. They can't tell the difference between a little issue that has to be addressed and a significant one that might derail all of their goals.

Dean Koontz hasn't written a terrible novel yet. He doesn't even reach the level of Okay or So So writing. This, like all of the Frankenstein novels, is a must-read. 

The novel deals with technology, the value of the soul, and the human experience, and, as usual, Koontz sprinkles his verbal pearls throughout. 

One of the most rewarding aspects of reading a Koontz novel is coming across a flawless, linguistic pearl, a bright piece of language, finely polished and achingly beautiful. Koontz has weaved threads of various lives and the tales behind them into a wonderfully written book that I read in three sittings the day it arrived and am already planning to revisit or listen to the series soon.

This series will both touch your heart and terrify the heck out of you. The plot moves quickly in Koontz's trademark way. 

He makes you flip the pages at breakneck speed and keeps you reading late into the night. I doubt one of the characters will return, but you never know... when you can turn and appear wherever and anytime you choose... I hope I could perfect that one myself. The best in the series! Mr. Dean Koontz, thank you for being the great crafter of words that you are.

Final Thoughts

Those who know and love Koontz will find that this novel meets if not exceeds, their expectations. 

For those who are just becoming acquainted, there is a lot of purchasing and reading ahead of you. 

Koontz is one of the best wordsmiths working in fiction today, and all of his works are must-reads.

I felt that some people might not like the style of this book and the way it felt rushed in some cases; I believe the author was planning another book but changed his mind and just finished the story in this volume; however, this could just be my idea and the author simply felt it was enough for now for this story, and he may return to this amazing story and make readers like me happy soon.

And a word on the new Victor, who appears to be a cross between Dawkins and a current Western flirting with different Asian ideologies. 

Why, why, why doesn't anyone else note how bluntly Koontz portrays the modern culture and the present lunacy of Western civilization? I thought the newest Victor, whom we met in the last Frankenstein novel, was fantastic as well. 

A being without a soul. It's almost like a caricature of how many new atheists depict themselves as Mr. Spock without a trace of compassion.

You'll find yourself cheering for the Rainbow Falls residents who have opted to oppose their invaders. The death toll will be great in the end, but their determination to prevail will never waver. Very motivating!

Dean Koontz's tremendously imaginative mind has produced yet another fantastic novel.

Synopsis

“Dean Koontz’s enthralling Frankenstein series has redefined the classic legend of infernal ambition and harrowing retribution for a new century and a new age. Now the master of suspense delivers an unforgettable novel that is at once a thrilling adventure in itself and a mesmerizing conclusion to his saga of the modern monsters among us.

FRANKENSTEIN: THE DEAD TOWN

The war against humanity is raging. As the small town of Rainbow Falls, Montana, comes under siege, scattered survivors come together to weather the onslaught of the creatures set loose upon the world. As they ready for battle against overwhelming odds, they will learn the full scope of Victor Frankenstein’s nihilistic plan to remake the future—and the terrifying reach of his shadowy, powerful supporters.

Now the good will make their last, best stand. In a climax that will shatter every expectation, their destinies and the fate of humanity hang in the balance.

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

Useful Search Related Words & Keywords

Carson And Michael, Frankenstein Series, Good Read, Last Book, New Orleans, Odd Thomas, Rainbow Falls, Really Enjoyed, Victor Immaculate, Whole Series

Rating: 95/100

Recommended: 100/100 Yes.

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