SOLVED. Adult Sci Fi/ Fantasy - Man goes back to his hometown but it is being controlled by an evil child who can alter reality. Published in 1960s? Spoiler ahead.

[Kris]

Helen, around what year did you read this book?

What is the man's job? Why does he return home? Location/ country?

I removed the spoiler from the header -- "they are ultimately saved by a cosmic goddess".

Authors mentioned: Philip K. Dick and John Wyndham.

[David]

Sure!

I would have bet on Dean Koontz myself.

[David]

I always love more PKD's histories to read.

The Cosmic Puppets by Philip K. Dick for the link.