Choose Wisely

The Bad Weather Friend by Dean Koontz is an exciting contemporary suspense that I read in just two sittings – pausing only to sleep! This is the author’s latest offering but was the first novel that I had read by him – and what a treat it turned out to be.

The lead character’s story reminded me of the story of Job in the Bible. He is a very credible lead character and incredibly nice, not a mean bone in his body. He is also loyal to his friends.

We see how our upbringing molds us. The lead character, Benny, has been shaped by adversity. His early years saw him meet many questionable adults but he retains his integrity and ‘niceness’ (for want of a better word).

At school and in present day, Benny is one of the three musketeers. There seems to be protection in threes.

Do not judge by size and appearance. The bad weather friend looks intimidating (and he is, to the evil people) but beneath his exterior beats a heart that is loyal.

There is the question of trust. We are asked to trust, not blindly but wisely. “They wouldn’t listen to me… They had free will.” If we do not choose wisely, our downfall will surely follow.

I loved the literary device that Dean Koontz uses, of talking to the reader in an aside. We feel drawn into his world and his confidence.

I thoroughly enjoyed The Bad Weather Friend and am looking forward to reading much more from Dean Koontz. There are certainly many best sellers to choose from.

JULIA WILSON