I have always been drawn to different genres of books from mystery to non-fiction, romance to horror.  Some just grab your attention and never let go.  I just finished a fantastic book, Odd Thomas.

Odd Thomas by Dean Koontz is not a regular run of the mill horror story. An unassuming desert town in California is home to many likeable and believable characters.  The lead character, Odd (not Todd) is a twenty-year-old fry cook who sees dead people.  With the dead’s aid, he helps the local law enforcers solve crimes and thwart criminals.

During our first encounter with Odd, or “Oddie” as he is lovingly called by some of his friends, is warned by ghosts (including Elvis) that something horrific will happen in a few days.  He meets an angry strange man who tries to do him bodily harm. Black shadowy creatures appear in droves leading him to believe his psychic senses.  With the help of his girlfriend, the chief of police, and the ghost of Elvis, he fights evil presenses lurking around his small town.

Odd Thomas is a very likeable character.  He is quick witted and polite, attempting to hide his psychic abilities.  The pace of the book is quick, leading the reader on an exciting roller coaster ride.  Koontz occasionally adds asides to pop culture.    Mystery, suspense, and humor abound in this book, continuing in the sequels Forever Odd, Brother Odd, and Odd Hours.