Title: Wilderness
Author: Dean Koontz
First published September 29, 2013
30 pages, Kindle Edition
Rating: 3.86
Overview
Discover the enigmatic world of Addison Goodheart in Dean Koontz’s thrilling novel, Wilderness. Born in isolation, Addison has always been a mystery to those around him, including himself.
Hidden away in the deep forest, he finds solace among the wildlife and peace in the quiet of the woods. But when his life takes a drastic turn, Addison is forced to confront his deepest fears and unravel the secrets of his past.
With twists and turns at every corner, Wilderness is a gripping tale of mystery, suspense, and self-discovery.
About the Author
Dean Ray Koontz is a renowned writer, highly regarded for his ability to captivate readers with his suspenseful and thrilling stories that delve into the depths of human nature. Critically acclaimed and loved by millions of readers worldwide, Dean has become one of the most celebrated and successful writers of our time.
With numerous #1 New York Times bestsellers to his name, Dean resides in sunny Southern California with his wife, Gerda, and their beloved golden retriever, Elsa. He is also fondly reminded of his past dogs, Trixie and Anna, whose spirits live on.
Stay connected with Dean and his writing through his Facebook page, Twitter handle, and personal website at DeanKoontz.com.
Editoral Review
In “Wilderness,” Dean Koontz is in top form, exploring themes of redemption, identity, and the limits of human endurance. Published in 2013, this novel exemplifies his unique voice in the thriller genre, balancing nail-biting suspense with philosophical musings and even moments of humor.
With vivid descriptions of the natural world and a cast of memorable characters, Koontz creates a world that is both grounded in reality and filled with surreal possibilities. The plot of “Wilderness” revolves around a man named Addison Goodheart, who has spent his entire life in hiding due to his physical appearance.
Addison is covered head to toe in hair, earning him the nickname “the Monster” by those who encounter him. Despite this, Addison is a kind and intelligent man, with a deep sense of empathy for others.
When Addison stumbles upon a family in desperate need of help while exploring the wilderness, he willingly puts himself in danger to save them. At its core, “Wilderness” is a story about the human capacity for good and evil, and the choices we make in the face of adversity.
Koontz explores these themes through the lens of the natural world, showing the power and beauty of nature, as well as its often violent and unforgiving side. The setting of the novel, a remote mountainous region, adds to the sense of isolation and danger that the characters face.
Koontz’s writing style is both lyrical and suspenseful. He has a gift for creating tension and suspense without relying on cheap thrills or unrealistic plot twists.
His characters are well-drawn and feel fully realized, with their own distinct voices and motivations. Addison is a particularly compelling protagonist, with his struggle to find a place in the world despite his appearance serving as a metaphor for the human need to belong.
While “Wilderness” is a strong novel overall, it does have a few limitations. The pacing can feel slow at times, with long periods of introspection and description interspersed with action.
Additionally, some readers may find Koontz’s exploration of dark themes unsettling, as the violence can be quite graphic in places. Overall, “Wilderness” is a must-read for fans of the thriller genre.
It showcases Koontz’s unique voice and storytelling abilities, while also delving into deeper themes of humanity and morality. The novel would appeal to readers who enjoy both action-packed scenes and philosophical musings.
While it may not be for everyone, those who give it a chance are sure to be rewarded with a captivating and thought-provoking read.