Book Review: The Darkest Evening Of The Year by Dean Koontz

‘The Darkest Evening Of The Year’, was written by Dean Koontz and published in 2007. It follows the story of Amy Redwing and her partner Brian McCarthy, who rescue and golden retriever called Nickie from a drunk, violent and abusive owner. The presence of this particular golden retriever seems to send long buried traumas and fears bubbling up to the surface.

I found Amy’s character very compelling, her love for dogs is immeasurable. I loved her because I saw myself in her. If I had a copious amount of money, I too would use it funding shelters and rescues for abandoned and abused dogs. When we follow her character we see her as a free spirit, unburdened and ready and raring to seek adventure, just like her beloved retrievers. She has a strong will and faith. I enjoyed seeing the world through her eyes as she peeled back her walls and offered her secrets to Brian, who in turn does the same.

I never considered a story of dogs in this context would bring me to tears, but I was very emotional when Amy recounted tales of her own dogs and the value of their kindness and love. I love dogs, and have been brought to tears by many a film about dogs, such as ‘Marley and Me’ or ‘Turner and Hooch’ but until now, books about dogs lacked the same feelings of vitality that cinema incapsulates so well. To me, it was the language that made these fictional golden retrievers feel like they could be my neighbour’s dogs.

The way the threads of their stories weave together pique your curiosity throughout the story and evoke strong feelings of disgust, rage and sadness. It certainly was a book that kept you reeling and feeling. I really enjoyed reading this story, it was fast paced, exhilarating, and kept me guessing. I can’t wait to read more of Koontz’s work in the future.