Horror Aficionados discussion

So, I read the first one in this series and got half way through the second. Honestly, I can't stand Koontz's style of writing--it's too cheesy for me (I know I could get flamed for this, but just my thoughts). Anyways, I do like the story line here. Has anyone read them all the way through? Do you think it's worth the time investment? The second book started dragging for me and so I decided to give it a rest. Anyone have the same experience? Other thoughts?

David wrote: "So, I read the first one in this series and got half way through the second. Honestly, I can't stand Koontz's style of writing--it's too cheesy for me (I know I could get flamed for this, but just ..."

Exactly the same for me.
I read the first book and was kind of intrigued but got maybe halfway thru the second and gave up. I have no thought of continuing the series.

I've read it all the way through. But I like Koontz, so I think I'm biased. I really thought the series was an interesting modern 'take' on the old Frankenstein story. Victor is devious and genius, and crazy as hell. The 'monster' is thoughtful and powerful and sympathetic. But if you don't like Koontz... then I'm not sure if you'll like the series.

I liked this series from Koontz. I loved Koontz as a kid but got pretty much bored with his work as I grew older. His writing does sometimes seem tired and cookie cutter. The Frankenstein books I thought were much better than his recent stand alone novels. I like the Odd Thomas series too but have had the latest one on my shelf for a while and just can't get motivated to start it.

I loved the Frankenstein series but I am biased as well since Koontz is my favorite author. Although I do think the series gets better especially if you haven't met Jocko.

Tracy wrote: "I loved the Frankenstein series but I am biased as well since Koontz is my favorite author. Although I do think the series gets better especially if you haven't met Jocko."

HA HA! I forgot about Jocko. Great character! Super funny..

I have the whole series but haven't gotten around to them yet...but I do remember in between the lapse of some years before he finished the last few novels, fans were clamoring for a new one...

Yeah I agree with most of you guys...the second book lags tremendously and I had to put it aside around the halfway mark and take a little break. It's still intriguing, but it's a whole lot of set up and no payoff so far. I have faith that it will improve, but I just need a little break at the moment haha.

And while I like Koontz's style, I can certainly understand any complaints one would have with him. He is a little cookie-cutter, but I feel that he is very strong when writing in first person. Odd Thomas and Life Expectancy stand out in my mind especially. His first person narrative really draws you in. He's often witty, clever and the prose flows excellently.

For me, it just depends on what kind of story Koontz is trying to tell. The Frankenstein books are very choppy, bouncing back and forth constantly with tons of characters. Not neccesarily a bad thing, just a different kind of format. His first person stuff really draws me in, esp Life Expectancy.

I've read all 5..they're pretty good, worth the read.
I think it hurt the series when the last 3 took so long coming out after the first 2...
Jocko is an awesome character :) u can't help but love'm :D
Watchers, Whispers, &
The Bad Place are my favorite from Koontz

I read the first two and liked them. Then during the long period where the third one never came out, I just lost interest.
I have loved Koontz for a long time, but somewhere in the last 5-10 years that love has faded to like. Whoever mentioned the cookie cutter plots has hit the nail on the head, IMO. You have a good guy. You have a bad guy. You have a GREAT dog. Good guy wins. The end.
I do admit a fondness for Odd Thomas though I am a book or two behind.

I liked the 1st & 2nd in the Odd Thomas series the 3rd & 4th were meh...
haven't read the 5th yet..i'll get around to it but i'm not in too big a hurry..

I read it was originally concieved as a TV Series. I would have watched it.