Friday 5 June 2020

Stranger Still (Strange Series Book 3) - Marilyn Messik


Telepathy, along with sundry other odd abilities, have landed Stella more than once, in situations at best controversial, at worst life-threatening. But she’s always known; you have to fight your own corner as best you can, no point beating yourself up about it.

Now though, times have changed, different priorities. She’s married, with a baby on the way and a flourishing business. She simply has to deal with a couple of worrying issues and then all should be smooth sailing.

But, isn't it a fact; just when you think you’ve got all your ducks in a row, life can turn right around and bite you on the bottom?


What did I think?

I've really been enjoying the Strange Series so the third book, Stranger Still barely hit the doormat before I'd scooped it up and started reading.  I do think you have to read this series in sequential order as Stranger Still, although hugely entertaining in its own right, won't make as much sense as a standalone.  For anyone new to the series, or a refresher for established fans, Marilyn Messik has very kindly included a cast of characters at the beginning.  I love little extra touches like this.

So in this third outing, we find newly married main character Stella in grave danger in the prologue.  I wasn't too worried as there hasn't been a sticky situation she hasn't yet got herself out of, however, as I continued to read the tension and danger seemed to mount.  Just what has Stella got caught up in this time?  Whatever it is, it had my heart in my mouth at times.  I think that not only because I have read the earlier books but because Marilyn Messik has created such an unusual and unforgettable character in Stella, I feel as if I know Stella personally so I was really worried for her and her friends.  Especially as Stranger Still has a darker feel to it than the other books.

Not only are the characters unique, but Marilyn Messik's style of writing is one of a kind.  Marilyn has a wonderfully dry sense of humour that adds depth to her quirky characters and she also has a knack for finishing her chapters with oodles of suspense which ensure you need to read 'just one more chapter' until there are no more left. 

With the usual 'strange' cast of characters, Stranger Still is another brilliant instalment in the exceptional Strange Series.  I thought Stranger Still was the conclusion to a trilogy but I was delighted to read in the acknowledgements that there are more adventures to come.  Uniquely different and strange with a capital S, I've loved all three books and I heartily recommend this series.

I chose to read an ARC and this is my honest and unbiased opinion.

My rating:

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