Forever Odd

I generally like Koontz's writing and storytelling ability and have since I first read him more than 25 years ago, but this story reminds me why I haven't read anything of his in a while.

Over the years, with increasing occurrence and harsher wording, he has indulged more and more in presenting his own brand of faith or belief and political leanings as the only right way while constantly denigrating any other view with sarcasm and as something to be mocked. The balance in his storytelling keeps tipping more and more in that direction and it seems to permeate more of the story with each one he writes. I come away from the experience feeling like I've been lectured to by a paternal presence who insists I listen to his viewpoint.

This is not an argument against diversity of opinion and presentation, but is exactly the opposite. Presenting divergent views in a reasoned and balanced manner is what is missing. I wholeheartedly believe that most fiction writers present, especially their main character, with their own core beliefs. That is natural. But the best writers can temper that and present other characters in the story with opposing views in a sane and equitable manner.

If it weren't for that constant and underlying harping by the author through his narrative and character exposition, this would be a much more enjoyable reading experience because the story is good and the characters, especially Odd, have an interesting basis.