Conclusion.
Nicely wrapped up at the end, as one might predict of a Koontz novel. No big surprises, but closure on all but the most trivial questions that remained to be answered. The "how it came about" and the "why it unfolded this way" cleverly linked. And the Horror all explained away - all but eclipsed by the resolution of the Mystery.
One odd twist is the fact that the hero commits what is usually seen as a very unherioc act in order to Save The Universe. Bailey essentially carries out an unprovoked execution of the "bad guy" out of hand. How many stories can get away with that?! Once it is established that the scientist that brought the end of the world about; and feels no remorse and would do it all again; Bailey simply pulls a gun and blows him away. The usual plot device here would be that the bad guy tries to kill him first, or tries to go for the hero's gun. Something to force the issue. You have to wonder what DK is saying here, that he doesn't include the device. Simply that it's overused or trite? Is this something the editor(s) asked for?
After the climax, the characters go on with their lives and we get a glimpse of how that goes for some of them, presuming that we have become attached to them and actually care. But more importantly, some "clean up" is effected, including the fatal auto "accident" of the partner of the bad guy, who might - just might - be able to reproduce the results without him.
Not quite as satisfying an ending as many of his works, but mercifully short.
Overall, a good addition to Dean Koontz's works, and an indication that, after some 70 novels, he hasn't gone stale, no, not even close. It should keep his fans (including this one!) coming back for more.
The book club choice for May is Amy Tan's The Hundred Secret Senses. The first quarter will take us up to Part II very nicely. Enjoy!
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