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Dean Koontz

Wilderness

Quick Answer

Read "Wilderness" as the 10th book in the Standalone Novels, Novellas, and Collections sequence. This follows the recommended publication order to preserve character development.

Sequence Warning

⚠️ Do NOT read before "Frankenstein: The Complete 5-Book Collection" (Book 9)

❓ Can I skip this book?
❌ No — Required

This book is essential to the core narrative and character development.

Verdict Insight: As the 10th installment, this volume is critical for following the central narrative progression and plot development.

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2013
A chilling short story prequel to Dean Koontz's forthcoming full-length novel, INNOCENCE. Addison Goodheart is only eight years old, but he already knows he is not like other people. Addison Goodheart is a mystery even to himself. He was born in an isolated home surrounded by a deep forest, seeing no one but his mother, who barely accepts him. She is haunted by private demons and keeps many secrets - none of which she dreads more than the young son who adores her. Only in the woods, among the wildlife, is Addison truly welcome. Only there can he be at peace. Until the day he first knows terror, the day when his life changes radically and forever...
Next Recommended Book

Odd Thomas: You Are Destined to Be Together Forever (Short Story)

Book #11 of 19 in Series

Complete Series Reading Order

Publication Order

Preserves character reveals and plot twists exactly as the author intended.

Chronological Order

May spoil surprises but improves timeline clarity for deep lore fans.

Order Confidence

Medium Confidence

Why this order?

Our team of curators analyzes publication history, author interviews, and internal narrative continuity to establish the definitive reading sequence. This ensures zero spoilers and maximum narrative impact.

Why This Order Is Confusing

Many reading lists for Standalone Novels, Novellas, and Collections conflict because early publishers often labeled short story collections as standalone novels, or rearranged internal chronologies for marketing. This guide follows original author intent and narrative continuity to settle the debate for good.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I skip reading Wilderness?

This book is essential to the core narrative and character development.

Can I read Wilderness before Frankenstein: The Complete 5-Book Collection?

No. We recommend reading Frankenstein: The Complete 5-Book Collection first. Wilderness is the 10th book in the series and follows the core narrative established in earlier volumes.

Is Wilderness required reading for the Standalone Novels, Novellas, and Collections?

Yes, it is a core installment in the series reading order and contains critical character development and plot progression.

What comes after Wilderness in the reading order?

The next recommended book after Wilderness is Odd Thomas: You Are Destined to Be Together Forever (Short Story) (Book #11).