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Stranger Times #5
Ring the Bells:
Not yet published
Expected 10 Feb 26Christmas. It’s the most magical time of the year, but nobody ever said that was a good thing . . .
When a well-meaning book group turned witches coven attempt to perform a ritual of peace, they get a whole load of anything but. Meet Zalas, a chaos-loving old god who is the reason a university librarian apparently slaughtered the rest of her book group. The Stranger Times is hot on his trail, but it's hard to track down a being that can pass from person to person just by touch. And contact with this demonic visitor leaves his unwitting hosts bewildered and, more often than not, covered in blood. The team are trying to track him down and also trace the mysterious book that was used inadvertently to summon him. It seems the book group were unwitting patsies, but who would benefit by unleashing a force of sheer chaos?
Mind you it's not exactly plain sailing for Zalas. The modern world's proving tricky to navigate. Back in the good old days, all he needed to do was demonstrate his capacity for spectacular violence and followers would flock to him. Now everybody runs away screaming.
Like all gods, to thrive and survive he needs believers, but people don’t seem to believe in anything anymore. And as he passes from host to host he can’t find any faith to latch onto unti, that is, he meets Barry Fearns, a down-on-his-luck Santa Claus at Wonderama, the disastrous ‘Christmas experience’ that's coming soon to a consumer affairs TV programme near you. Thanks to Zalas, it's transformed into a magical place where dreams really do come true. Because children are the last true believers and Zalas has found a way into their little hearts. Returning home, they find all their Christmas wishes granted – from unicorns and dinosaurs to grandad visiting, even though he died last year . . .
As Zalas’ power grows and grows, the Founders struggle to contain the alarming amount of magic spewing forth into the world and Banecroft and the Stranger Times gang are in a race against time. Because on Christmas eve, when the bells toll, Zalas will gather his followers unto him and when he does, he'll be unstoppable.
Someone is coming to town and he certainly isn’t jolly. Can The Stranger Times crew save not just Christmas but possibly the entire world as well?
The reviewers loved Relight My
'McDonnell's world is transgressively hilarious, grimly banal and beguilingly warm. Of course there's a story that the intrepid journalists of The Stranger Times have to tease grave-robbing, cryogenics, a very angry witch, and a washed-up indie legend looking for a lost album, but the real joy lies in the pitfalls and pratfalls of getting there.' DAILY MAIL
'An absolute riot of a read.' DAILY EXPRESS
'Laugh-out-loud funny and full of colourful characters.' DAILY MIRROR
'It’s no secret that here at SciFi Towers we’re massive fans of the Stranger Times series by C. K. McDonnell.' SciFiNOW
'I loved the dry and embedded humour of this book, it's the stuff of life . . . the whole thing is great fun.' SFCROSWNEST
'Relight My Fire is perhaps the best since the original.
When a well-meaning book group turned witches coven attempt to perform a ritual of peace, they get a whole load of anything but. Meet Zalas, a chaos-loving old god who is the reason a university librarian apparently slaughtered the rest of her book group. The Stranger Times is hot on his trail, but it's hard to track down a being that can pass from person to person just by touch. And contact with this demonic visitor leaves his unwitting hosts bewildered and, more often than not, covered in blood. The team are trying to track him down and also trace the mysterious book that was used inadvertently to summon him. It seems the book group were unwitting patsies, but who would benefit by unleashing a force of sheer chaos?
Mind you it's not exactly plain sailing for Zalas. The modern world's proving tricky to navigate. Back in the good old days, all he needed to do was demonstrate his capacity for spectacular violence and followers would flock to him. Now everybody runs away screaming.
Like all gods, to thrive and survive he needs believers, but people don’t seem to believe in anything anymore. And as he passes from host to host he can’t find any faith to latch onto unti, that is, he meets Barry Fearns, a down-on-his-luck Santa Claus at Wonderama, the disastrous ‘Christmas experience’ that's coming soon to a consumer affairs TV programme near you. Thanks to Zalas, it's transformed into a magical place where dreams really do come true. Because children are the last true believers and Zalas has found a way into their little hearts. Returning home, they find all their Christmas wishes granted – from unicorns and dinosaurs to grandad visiting, even though he died last year . . .
As Zalas’ power grows and grows, the Founders struggle to contain the alarming amount of magic spewing forth into the world and Banecroft and the Stranger Times gang are in a race against time. Because on Christmas eve, when the bells toll, Zalas will gather his followers unto him and when he does, he'll be unstoppable.
Someone is coming to town and he certainly isn’t jolly. Can The Stranger Times crew save not just Christmas but possibly the entire world as well?
The reviewers loved Relight My
'McDonnell's world is transgressively hilarious, grimly banal and beguilingly warm. Of course there's a story that the intrepid journalists of The Stranger Times have to tease grave-robbing, cryogenics, a very angry witch, and a washed-up indie legend looking for a lost album, but the real joy lies in the pitfalls and pratfalls of getting there.' DAILY MAIL
'An absolute riot of a read.' DAILY EXPRESS
'Laugh-out-loud funny and full of colourful characters.' DAILY MIRROR
'It’s no secret that here at SciFi Towers we’re massive fans of the Stranger Times series by C. K. McDonnell.' SciFiNOW
'I loved the dry and embedded humour of this book, it's the stuff of life . . . the whole thing is great fun.' SFCROSWNEST
'Relight My Fire is perhaps the best since the original.
400 pages, Hardcover
First published October 9, 2025
544 people are currently reading
843 people want to read
About the author
C.K. McDonnell
13 books635 followersA pseudonym for Caimh McDonnell.
Irishman Caimh McDonnell is a former professional stand-up comedian and TV writer who now concentrates all of his energies on writing books. Born in Limerick and raised in Dublin, he has taken the hop across the water and calls Manchester his home.
His TV writing work has seen him work on some of the biggest topical comedy shows on British TV, such as the The Sarah Millican Television Programme, Mock the Week and Have I Got News for You. His work as a children’s TV writer earned him a BAFTA nomination for the CBBC animated series ‘Pet Squad’ which he created.
Irishman Caimh McDonnell is a former professional stand-up comedian and TV writer who now concentrates all of his energies on writing books. Born in Limerick and raised in Dublin, he has taken the hop across the water and calls Manchester his home.
His TV writing work has seen him work on some of the biggest topical comedy shows on British TV, such as the The Sarah Millican Television Programme, Mock the Week and Have I Got News for You. His work as a children’s TV writer earned him a BAFTA nomination for the CBBC animated series ‘Pet Squad’ which he created.
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December 8, 2025An immensely entertaining urban fantasy in which an old blood god returns to earth in the guise of Santa. Santa, Satan, whatever. It's book 5 in an ongoing series: the lore is worn lightly but I probably wouldn't start here as a newbie. However, if you dropped off, come back, lol. There are some absolutely cracking lines, very funny, some lovely character notes (our MCs are such a pack of losers, it's great) and good helpings of both heart and horror. Anyone who likes urban fantasy should get into this series.
October 13, 2025
4.5 stars
It was always going to be difficult to beat Relight My Fire and Ring The Bells isn't far off that gold standard. I'm putting it down to the fact that I'm not a huge fan of Christmas in general.
Thankfully it was far more about power mad forgotten gods, Bancroft's drinking, a little so-and-so (kept it clean for Grace's sake) called Clint, Brian the Ghoul, Sturgess' little friend, John Moore, a delightful psychopath called Xander along with some dodgy looking reindeer, Cristiano Ronaldo and a Santa-loving no-hoper called Neil. (I've not even mentioned how many Waynes are in it).
The plot is wonderfully simple - ancient god put of power called back from another realm uses any means he can to take over the world and ruin Christmas for the kiddies along the way. So, nothing too crazy as usual.
We also learn about Manny and what a storyline that is. I'm still a little cross with the white-haired Irish man for making me quite emotional for quite a lot of the book.
Great to have new characters - Doctor Black and to have others - ie Margot - play more of a part. I love both but I really love Margot. She reminds me of Molly from Rivers of London (yes, I love her too).
I know it's rude to mention other books in a review but since I know there are MCM and Bunny books on the horizon plus a Dublin Trlogy tv series (keeping the fingers crossed we get it in the UK as well as Eire) I can't expect Mr McD to produce another Stranger Times again next year - but I really hope he doesn't leave it too long.
It was always going to be difficult to beat Relight My Fire and Ring The Bells isn't far off that gold standard. I'm putting it down to the fact that I'm not a huge fan of Christmas in general.
Thankfully it was far more about power mad forgotten gods, Bancroft's drinking, a little so-and-so (kept it clean for Grace's sake) called Clint, Brian the Ghoul, Sturgess' little friend, John Moore, a delightful psychopath called Xander along with some dodgy looking reindeer, Cristiano Ronaldo and a Santa-loving no-hoper called Neil. (I've not even mentioned how many Waynes are in it).
The plot is wonderfully simple - ancient god put of power called back from another realm uses any means he can to take over the world and ruin Christmas for the kiddies along the way. So, nothing too crazy as usual.
We also learn about Manny and what a storyline that is. I'm still a little cross with the white-haired Irish man for making me quite emotional for quite a lot of the book.
Great to have new characters - Doctor Black and to have others - ie Margot - play more of a part. I love both but I really love Margot. She reminds me of Molly from Rivers of London (yes, I love her too).
I know it's rude to mention other books in a review but since I know there are MCM and Bunny books on the horizon plus a Dublin Trlogy tv series (keeping the fingers crossed we get it in the UK as well as Eire) I can't expect Mr McD to produce another Stranger Times again next year - but I really hope he doesn't leave it too long.
December 7, 2025
With higher stakes, even more weirdness and an emotionally compelling edge to our characters that had me glued to my seat; the fifth instalment of the Stranger Times series well and truly stole my heart!
We once again follow the staff of The Stranger Times (which now includes Brian the Ghoul) who are just trying to get through the festive season (and enjoy their first ever staff Christmas party) without too much hassle. So naturally, they’re roped into helping solve a triple murder that leads them to a demonic, godlike entity, hellbent on vengeance against humanity.
Though, not before acquiring a fanbase big enough to rival Taylor Swift’s (thanks to the professional Santa said entity has managed to possess.)
This was definitely the wildest and most chaotic instalment of the series to date, and I genuinely enjoyed every second. The humour was (as usual) sharply witty and a little dark, but it was the emotional complexity into our characters, namely Manny (and how he came to reside in The Stranger Times offices) that really made this a standout for me.
Manny’s story was so intriguing but a little sad too, and I admit did have me tearing up a few times whilst reading (so do please keep some tissues handy.)
Stella’s reaction to his story adds even more nuance, as it gave us the chance to delve a little more into her own struggles surrounding her past and identity, (and made me love her even more.)
Plot-wise, this was very TV Christmas special: full of whimsy and anticipated character team ups that had me fully invested in all the antics taking place (especially Ox’s feud with a teenager and Grace’s plans to sober up Banecroft.) But there were some bittersweet feelings in the mix too, and definitely gave the feeling that the series will be coming to its end very shortly.
Overall, a fab continuation to the series (but I honestly don’t know what I’ll do once it ends)
Also, thank you soo much to Bantam UK for the proof
We once again follow the staff of The Stranger Times (which now includes Brian the Ghoul) who are just trying to get through the festive season (and enjoy their first ever staff Christmas party) without too much hassle. So naturally, they’re roped into helping solve a triple murder that leads them to a demonic, godlike entity, hellbent on vengeance against humanity.
Though, not before acquiring a fanbase big enough to rival Taylor Swift’s (thanks to the professional Santa said entity has managed to possess.)
This was definitely the wildest and most chaotic instalment of the series to date, and I genuinely enjoyed every second. The humour was (as usual) sharply witty and a little dark, but it was the emotional complexity into our characters, namely Manny (and how he came to reside in The Stranger Times offices) that really made this a standout for me.
Manny’s story was so intriguing but a little sad too, and I admit did have me tearing up a few times whilst reading (so do please keep some tissues handy.)
Stella’s reaction to his story adds even more nuance, as it gave us the chance to delve a little more into her own struggles surrounding her past and identity, (and made me love her even more.)
Plot-wise, this was very TV Christmas special: full of whimsy and anticipated character team ups that had me fully invested in all the antics taking place (especially Ox’s feud with a teenager and Grace’s plans to sober up Banecroft.) But there were some bittersweet feelings in the mix too, and definitely gave the feeling that the series will be coming to its end very shortly.
Overall, a fab continuation to the series (but I honestly don’t know what I’ll do once it ends)
Also, thank you soo much to Bantam UK for the proof
November 3, 2025
Ring the Bells is the fifth book in the Stranger Times series, darkly humorous urban fantasy set in an alternate version of modern day Manchester. This is one where you probably do need to have read the earlier books to follow what’s going on, as both the character dynamics and world building are complex and quite different to the usual for this genre. This one has our team of misfit journalists investigating a horrific multiple murder in the run up to Christmas while saddled with the tween office-boy from hell.
When a coven of librarians accidentally release body-stealing Old God Zalas into the world, they don’t live long enough to regret it. Zalas gains power from belief, so what better person to take over than Father Christmas - even if this particular Santa is a down-on-his-luck department store version. Unfortunately, when children’s Christmas wishes start coming true, chaos ensues. Deputy editor Hannah and her reluctant friendly policeman Tom must find out what’s going on, and stay ahead of the evil power-hungry Founders, to save Manchester - and quite possibly the world.
This series is lots of fun because instead of the standard UF tropes - vampires, werewolves and the like, you have a motley crew of humans bumbling about in a world they don’t fully understand. It’s like a paranormal version of Slow Horses, including the slovenly foul mouthed leader and mismatched but ultimately loyal team who always get the job done in spite of their own incompetence. The magical community, known as The Folk, keep having to get involved, if only to keep their existence quiet, but they have their own internal conflicts to worry about. Meanwhile we learn Manny’s sad backstory, but many other mysteries remain. It felt a bit long and the ending was perhaps a little too easy after all the build-up, but I still enjoyed the ride. Roll on the next one!
Thanks to NetGalley and Transworld for the ARC. Ring the Bells is available now.
When a coven of librarians accidentally release body-stealing Old God Zalas into the world, they don’t live long enough to regret it. Zalas gains power from belief, so what better person to take over than Father Christmas - even if this particular Santa is a down-on-his-luck department store version. Unfortunately, when children’s Christmas wishes start coming true, chaos ensues. Deputy editor Hannah and her reluctant friendly policeman Tom must find out what’s going on, and stay ahead of the evil power-hungry Founders, to save Manchester - and quite possibly the world.
This series is lots of fun because instead of the standard UF tropes - vampires, werewolves and the like, you have a motley crew of humans bumbling about in a world they don’t fully understand. It’s like a paranormal version of Slow Horses, including the slovenly foul mouthed leader and mismatched but ultimately loyal team who always get the job done in spite of their own incompetence. The magical community, known as The Folk, keep having to get involved, if only to keep their existence quiet, but they have their own internal conflicts to worry about. Meanwhile we learn Manny’s sad backstory, but many other mysteries remain. It felt a bit long and the ending was perhaps a little too easy after all the build-up, but I still enjoyed the ride. Roll on the next one!
Thanks to NetGalley and Transworld for the ARC. Ring the Bells is available now.
October 19, 2025
Weakest one so far. Nothing much really happens and many characters appear only for small moments and don't do much. Older ones are now being replaced by new unnecesary characters and we haven't move not even an inch in older plots that will keep appearing through the rest of the series.
November 21, 2025
A bit more mayhem in this fifth installment of "Stranger Times." An evil 'god' is released by wanna be witches. Said god requires believers to gain power. Said god takes on a Santa Claus actor as host. Bizarre things happen. Given the author, humorous things of course. And we learn more about our printing press operator who is forever watched over by an angel. Possessed is more like it.
Urban fantasy filled with one liners and things to ponder. There is one, one liner, I'd love to quote, but while I laughed, some might find it offensive. Such is the nature of C. K. McDonnell.
Fun times in Manchester, England.
Urban fantasy filled with one liners and things to ponder. There is one, one liner, I'd love to quote, but while I laughed, some might find it offensive. Such is the nature of C. K. McDonnell.
Fun times in Manchester, England.
November 28, 2025
A winter wonderland of whacky yet heartfelt urban fantasy. Not my favourite in the series but still a treat.
December 13, 2025
Ring the Bells (Stranger Times, #5) by C.K. McDonnell
This fifth book in the series is just as weird, chaotic, sweary, and wildly entertaining as the ones before it, and it opens with a very gruesome murder to set the tone straight away. The Stranger Times crew are still a glorious mess of incompetence, bad decisions, and questionable life choices, and by now I am deeply attached to every last one of these strange little weirdos. Adding Christmas to that mix was always going to be dangerous, and unsurprisingly, it all goes very wrong very quickly.
If you work at The Stranger Times, Christmas is not about peace, calm, or goodwill. It is about avoiding the next possible apocalypse, dealing with hackers, ancient gods, and an alarming amount of bodily fluids, and picking up bits of backstory along the way. There is a lot happening here, including more insight into some familiar characters, and yes, even the backstory of our favourite stoned Caribbean Rastafarian. Festive cheer, Stranger Times style.
At the centre of the chaos is an old god who thrives on disorder and bloodshed and is having a very hard time adjusting to the modern world. Turns out spectacular violence does not build a loyal following the way it used to. The idea of faith, belief, and why children might be the last true believers is both ridiculous and clever, and the whole Santa themed disaster spirals exactly as far out of control as you would expect.
I would still recommend starting with book one if you can, simply because the characters and running jokes are half the fun. That said, if what you want right now is an urban fantasy Christmas book with swearing, booze, demons, and zero cosy vibes, you can read this on its own. You will miss some context, and some side characters will feel extra strange, but honestly, that is kind of on brand.
Humour is always subjective, and I am sure some people will find this kind of comedy cheap or annoying. I could personally do with a little less fart humour. But overall, I absolutely love these books precisely because they lean into the nonsense. The jokes are often low hanging, the characters are terrible at almost everything, and watching a bunch of deeply unqualified people try to save the world is endlessly entertaining.
This is a loud, messy, foul mouthed Christmas story about belief, chaos, and doing the right thing despite being spectacularly bad at it. Not festive in a warm and fuzzy way, but perfect if you like your Christmas reads weird, irreverent, and just a little bit unhinged.
This fifth book in the series is just as weird, chaotic, sweary, and wildly entertaining as the ones before it, and it opens with a very gruesome murder to set the tone straight away. The Stranger Times crew are still a glorious mess of incompetence, bad decisions, and questionable life choices, and by now I am deeply attached to every last one of these strange little weirdos. Adding Christmas to that mix was always going to be dangerous, and unsurprisingly, it all goes very wrong very quickly.
If you work at The Stranger Times, Christmas is not about peace, calm, or goodwill. It is about avoiding the next possible apocalypse, dealing with hackers, ancient gods, and an alarming amount of bodily fluids, and picking up bits of backstory along the way. There is a lot happening here, including more insight into some familiar characters, and yes, even the backstory of our favourite stoned Caribbean Rastafarian. Festive cheer, Stranger Times style.
At the centre of the chaos is an old god who thrives on disorder and bloodshed and is having a very hard time adjusting to the modern world. Turns out spectacular violence does not build a loyal following the way it used to. The idea of faith, belief, and why children might be the last true believers is both ridiculous and clever, and the whole Santa themed disaster spirals exactly as far out of control as you would expect.
I would still recommend starting with book one if you can, simply because the characters and running jokes are half the fun. That said, if what you want right now is an urban fantasy Christmas book with swearing, booze, demons, and zero cosy vibes, you can read this on its own. You will miss some context, and some side characters will feel extra strange, but honestly, that is kind of on brand.
Humour is always subjective, and I am sure some people will find this kind of comedy cheap or annoying. I could personally do with a little less fart humour. But overall, I absolutely love these books precisely because they lean into the nonsense. The jokes are often low hanging, the characters are terrible at almost everything, and watching a bunch of deeply unqualified people try to save the world is endlessly entertaining.
This is a loud, messy, foul mouthed Christmas story about belief, chaos, and doing the right thing despite being spectacularly bad at it. Not festive in a warm and fuzzy way, but perfect if you like your Christmas reads weird, irreverent, and just a little bit unhinged.
December 26, 2025
Ring the Bells knüpft nahtlos an die Stranger Times-Reihe an. Dieser fünfte Band spielt zur Weihnachtszeit, doch statt besinnlicher Idylle sorgt ein von einem Buchclub heraufbeschworener Gott namens Zalas für Chaos, während das Team der Stranger Times nicht nur Weihnachten, sondern gleich die ganze Welt retten muss.
😈
Die Handlung ist temporeich, voller Wendungen, witziger Einfälle, schwarzem Humor und übernatürlichem Wahnsinn. Gleichzeitig gelingt es dem Autor, ernstere Themen einzuflechten, etwa indem beispielsweise die Vergangenheit eines Teammitglieds beleuchtet wird.
🥺
Die bereits bekannten und lieb gewonnenen Charaktere sind herrlich skurril, exzentrisch und chaotisch. Ich finde deren Wortgefechte urkomisch.
😅
Die britische Wochenzeitung „The Stranger Times“ befasst sich mit allerlei mysteriösen Ereignissen und Phänomenen wie beispielsweise Geistererscheinungen und Ufosichtungen. Sie ist DIE Anlaufstelle für Unerklärtes und Unerklärliches. Sehr unterhaltsam sind ebenfalls die Zeitungsartikel, die zwischendurch „eingestreut“ werden und die meistens eigentlich völlig sinnfrei sind. Diese verleihen dem Buch allerdings noch zusätzlich Pepp und Kuriosität.
❤️
😈
Die Handlung ist temporeich, voller Wendungen, witziger Einfälle, schwarzem Humor und übernatürlichem Wahnsinn. Gleichzeitig gelingt es dem Autor, ernstere Themen einzuflechten, etwa indem beispielsweise die Vergangenheit eines Teammitglieds beleuchtet wird.
🥺
Die bereits bekannten und lieb gewonnenen Charaktere sind herrlich skurril, exzentrisch und chaotisch. Ich finde deren Wortgefechte urkomisch.
😅
Die britische Wochenzeitung „The Stranger Times“ befasst sich mit allerlei mysteriösen Ereignissen und Phänomenen wie beispielsweise Geistererscheinungen und Ufosichtungen. Sie ist DIE Anlaufstelle für Unerklärtes und Unerklärliches. Sehr unterhaltsam sind ebenfalls die Zeitungsartikel, die zwischendurch „eingestreut“ werden und die meistens eigentlich völlig sinnfrei sind. Diese verleihen dem Buch allerdings noch zusätzlich Pepp und Kuriosität.
❤️
November 17, 2025
Caimh McDonnell has too many brilliant ideas, and I need the books to come faster! Ring the Bells was a long wait, but completely worth it.
This is a deep dive into the Stranger Times world, and I have to admit, it's getting complicated. The number of characters and intertwined fantasy plots are frankly confusing, even for someone who has read the whole series. Usually, that's a dealbreaker for me, but I remain in total awe of McDonnell's imagination—he manages to make the confusion captivating.
There are many sub-plots, including one about Manny that felt a boring, but that was a sad one.
Must-listen on audio! Brendan MacDonald's narration was perfect, and the hilarious news snippets were a highlight.
This is a deep dive into the Stranger Times world, and I have to admit, it's getting complicated. The number of characters and intertwined fantasy plots are frankly confusing, even for someone who has read the whole series. Usually, that's a dealbreaker for me, but I remain in total awe of McDonnell's imagination—he manages to make the confusion captivating.
There are many sub-plots, including one about Manny that felt a boring, but that was a sad one.
Must-listen on audio! Brendan MacDonald's narration was perfect, and the hilarious news snippets were a highlight.
October 12, 2025
A Christmas-y-ish The Stranger Times novel, do I need to say more?
It's just as weird and funny and bonkers as you probably imagined it to be, and then some.
It's just as weird and funny and bonkers as you probably imagined it to be, and then some.
December 12, 2025
Yet another absolute banger by McDonnell. This series is such a warm hug, the characters are beautifully written, I love how there's so many twists and turns, and the ever-expansive world building is so engaging and intriguing. They're also consistently the funniest books I've ever read, with each one making me burst out loud with laughter.
November 10, 2025
Best one yet. Funniest and saddest, all in one package. An amazing series.
November 14, 2025
От этой части слегка ощущение филлера, в котором не то чтобы много всего происходит, но в длинных сериях это случается, написано все еще хорошо.
October 16, 2025
Should have called it Wayne's World.
October 24, 2025
Ring The Bells by C.K. McDonnell published October 9th with Bantam. Described as a ‘funny and festive new paranormal mystery…the fifth book in the award-winning, critically acclaimed and laugh-out-loud funny The Stranger Times series.’
I am thoroughly enjoying this wacky and fun series from C.K. (Caimh) McDonnell. As many of you already know I am a huge fan of Caimh’s writing having discovered his mighty way with wit and words via his Bunny McGarry books. I think it’s fair to say that Caimh has almost a cultish following of devoted fans at this point, myself included, who appreciate and enjoy his sense of humour and his wonderful cast of characters across all his writing.
Ring the Bells is the latest addition to The Stranger Times series which is set in Manchester with the ex-Fleet Street, alcoholic and generally obnoxious Vincent Banecroft at the helm. In the run up to the festive season the team behind The Stranger Times newspaper are against the clock to get the latest edition ready for print when disaster strikes. A hacker has shut down their computer system causing near ructions in the office as none of the team are especially qualified in IT.
Meanwhile a supernatural occurrence at a book club meeting in a library has ended in carnage with three dead and some weird signage left behind that no one is capable of deciphering. A savage scene awaits the investigation team but with no logical reason for what they see, it soon becomes clear that it might just be beyond their remit. DI Tom Sturgess has become, unwittingly, the lead investigator for anything bizarre that occurs in the Greater Manchester area so after surveying the devastation at the library he has to look to the The Stranger Times for assistance.
It appears a portal of some sort has been opened and something otherworldly and intent on vanquishing humanity has been released so the odds of surviving this one are pretty slim for all the team involved. Meanwhile there are additional strange happenings within their own office walls as an unexpected story breaks in the most unorthodox fashion.
Ring the Bells continues in the same manner as the previous four books with its fantastical and entertaining plot. High-energy and so much fun, it’s packed with unhinged personalities, freakish (yet completely normal for The Stranger Times) incidents, unconventional work practices and offbeat relationships. C.K. McDonnell has developed a series that offers the complete distraction that many of us are looking for today. His pure wit, and his ability to create such a motley crew of lovable oddballs is very much the appeal of these books. Humorous, yet also very smart, Ring the Bells just proves that this series is really top-class entertainment and one I will continue to recommend. Bravo Caimh!
I am thoroughly enjoying this wacky and fun series from C.K. (Caimh) McDonnell. As many of you already know I am a huge fan of Caimh’s writing having discovered his mighty way with wit and words via his Bunny McGarry books. I think it’s fair to say that Caimh has almost a cultish following of devoted fans at this point, myself included, who appreciate and enjoy his sense of humour and his wonderful cast of characters across all his writing.
Ring the Bells is the latest addition to The Stranger Times series which is set in Manchester with the ex-Fleet Street, alcoholic and generally obnoxious Vincent Banecroft at the helm. In the run up to the festive season the team behind The Stranger Times newspaper are against the clock to get the latest edition ready for print when disaster strikes. A hacker has shut down their computer system causing near ructions in the office as none of the team are especially qualified in IT.
Meanwhile a supernatural occurrence at a book club meeting in a library has ended in carnage with three dead and some weird signage left behind that no one is capable of deciphering. A savage scene awaits the investigation team but with no logical reason for what they see, it soon becomes clear that it might just be beyond their remit. DI Tom Sturgess has become, unwittingly, the lead investigator for anything bizarre that occurs in the Greater Manchester area so after surveying the devastation at the library he has to look to the The Stranger Times for assistance.
It appears a portal of some sort has been opened and something otherworldly and intent on vanquishing humanity has been released so the odds of surviving this one are pretty slim for all the team involved. Meanwhile there are additional strange happenings within their own office walls as an unexpected story breaks in the most unorthodox fashion.
Ring the Bells continues in the same manner as the previous four books with its fantastical and entertaining plot. High-energy and so much fun, it’s packed with unhinged personalities, freakish (yet completely normal for The Stranger Times) incidents, unconventional work practices and offbeat relationships. C.K. McDonnell has developed a series that offers the complete distraction that many of us are looking for today. His pure wit, and his ability to create such a motley crew of lovable oddballs is very much the appeal of these books. Humorous, yet also very smart, Ring the Bells just proves that this series is really top-class entertainment and one I will continue to recommend. Bravo Caimh!
September 21, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and Bantam Press for this ARC!
“Ring the Bells” is the fifth book in the “Stranger Times” book series, which tells us of the staff of the “Stranger Times” newspaper, based in Manchester and telling the stories no other newspaper wants to tell you: Those of the supernatural, of unexplained phenomena, of unknown flying objects in the sky. In this specific instalment we join the crew around Christmas-time, as they have to deal with an ancient demon which was accidentally let loose by a well-meaning coven of witches. Said demon, Zalas, attempts to gain power through his believers by becoming the only one that still inspires true belief, at least in children – Santa Claus. Can they stop him before he ruins Christmas for everyone and takes over the world?
While it would probably be possible to read this book without having read the others first, I honestly wouldn’t recommend it, and why would you want to deprive yourself of the joy of spending four other books with this lovable cast before you arrive here?
I devoured the previous four instalments of this series within a few days, and when I saw that this one was up on NetGalley I had to request it. And despite being in a reading slump, I also devoured this book the second my request got approved.
This entire series is what you should find when you look up the word “Fun” in the dictionary. Dry humour, a ridiculous premise that is perfectly executed, a lovable cast of over the top characters, all balanced out by many sincere and heartfelt moments.
I really enjoyed the high-stakes premise of this book, although I do wish I had read it during winter rather than during summer. Despite the unfitting weather I still had a fantastic time, with ridiculous and funny moments balanced by a lot of moments which reminded you why you so love and care for these characters.
I truly think these books are for everyone, and I hope you will give them a shot!
“Ring the Bells” is the fifth book in the “Stranger Times” book series, which tells us of the staff of the “Stranger Times” newspaper, based in Manchester and telling the stories no other newspaper wants to tell you: Those of the supernatural, of unexplained phenomena, of unknown flying objects in the sky. In this specific instalment we join the crew around Christmas-time, as they have to deal with an ancient demon which was accidentally let loose by a well-meaning coven of witches. Said demon, Zalas, attempts to gain power through his believers by becoming the only one that still inspires true belief, at least in children – Santa Claus. Can they stop him before he ruins Christmas for everyone and takes over the world?
While it would probably be possible to read this book without having read the others first, I honestly wouldn’t recommend it, and why would you want to deprive yourself of the joy of spending four other books with this lovable cast before you arrive here?
I devoured the previous four instalments of this series within a few days, and when I saw that this one was up on NetGalley I had to request it. And despite being in a reading slump, I also devoured this book the second my request got approved.
This entire series is what you should find when you look up the word “Fun” in the dictionary. Dry humour, a ridiculous premise that is perfectly executed, a lovable cast of over the top characters, all balanced out by many sincere and heartfelt moments.
I really enjoyed the high-stakes premise of this book, although I do wish I had read it during winter rather than during summer. Despite the unfitting weather I still had a fantastic time, with ridiculous and funny moments balanced by a lot of moments which reminded you why you so love and care for these characters.
I truly think these books are for everyone, and I hope you will give them a shot!
December 19, 2025
3.5 stars
All in all, a good instalment in the series, but not my favourite, so far.
I found it just a bit too uneven for my taste. At times I felt like I was watching a stand-up comedy act and it had high and low points. The highs are really good, but
The social commentary was however on point and sharp as always.
I will laugh about a T-Rex stomping a Tesla for quite a while, let's put it that way. 😏
I liked the character development that flashed by in-between the rather busy, over-the-top plot.
It felt rather sad that Manny (finally) got a proper story 😅
But then again, the cast is suffering just a little bit from being very crammed and some people seem to stand out more clearly than others. Even if the author tries hard to give them all some space, I feel like there are certainly some favourites.
Banecroft (my favourite) and Stella (2nd favourite) are both doing some pretty kickass climbing on the character developing ladder. While Hannah has fallen behind a bit, and Grace has not had even a trace-amount of character development since book 1. 😆
Either way: The Big Bad twins lurking in the background do promise a big showdown, sooner or later. By now, I know I will stick around until we get there, no matter what (unless we're talking about 15+ books - then I might get a bit tired, to be honest). 🤪
All in all, a good instalment in the series, but not my favourite, so far.
I found it just a bit too uneven for my taste. At times I felt like I was watching a stand-up comedy act and it had high and low points. The highs are really good, but
The social commentary was however on point and sharp as always.
I will laugh about a T-Rex stomping a Tesla for quite a while, let's put it that way. 😏
I liked the character development that flashed by in-between the rather busy, over-the-top plot.
It felt rather sad that Manny (finally) got a proper story 😅
But then again, the cast is suffering just a little bit from being very crammed and some people seem to stand out more clearly than others. Even if the author tries hard to give them all some space, I feel like there are certainly some favourites.
Banecroft (my favourite) and Stella (2nd favourite) are both doing some pretty kickass climbing on the character developing ladder. While Hannah has fallen behind a bit, and Grace has not had even a trace-amount of character development since book 1. 😆
Either way: The Big Bad twins lurking in the background do promise a big showdown, sooner or later. By now, I know I will stick around until we get there, no matter what (unless we're talking about 15+ books - then I might get a bit tired, to be honest). 🤪
November 30, 2025
Weihnachtswahnsinn der besonderen Art
Mit „Ring the Bells“ erscheint bereits der 5. Band der Stranger Times Reihe und auch diesmal gelingt es Autor C.K.McDonnell problemlos eine außergewöhnliche, wie auch unterhaltsame Geschichte zu erzählen ohne das sich der Reiz abnutzt. Gerade jetzt in der Vorweihnachtszeit macht dieses schaurig skurrile Weihnachtsspecial wirklich großen Spaß. Für Neueinsteiger ist das Mitkommen aber wahrscheinlich etwas schwierig, denn es gibt wirklich sehr viele Erzählstränge mit bekannten, aber auch einigen neuen Figuren. Die Handlung ist dabei recht ausgewogen zwischen persönlichen Belangen des liebgewonnenen Redaktionsteams und der neuen heraufziehenden Gefahr. Erstmals schlägt der Autor auch ernstere Töne an und schafft es mit nur wenigen Szenen sehr bewegende Kriegserfahrungen zu schildern. Der Schreibstil ist vollgepackt mit witzigen Details und jeder Menge satirischem Humor, wobei mir der Text diesmal etwas pointierter und weniger platt erschien. Erstaunlicherweise gelingt es gleichzeitig den Zauber der Weihnachtszeit, zusammen mit der zunehmenden Ausrichtung auf Konsum darzustellen. Gerade zum Ende hin wird es dann aber nochmal richtig verrückt und sehr amüsant. Für Fans der Reihe ist „Ring the Bells“ also ein absolutes Must-Read, welches ich gerne weiterempfehlen kann!
Mit „Ring the Bells“ erscheint bereits der 5. Band der Stranger Times Reihe und auch diesmal gelingt es Autor C.K.McDonnell problemlos eine außergewöhnliche, wie auch unterhaltsame Geschichte zu erzählen ohne das sich der Reiz abnutzt. Gerade jetzt in der Vorweihnachtszeit macht dieses schaurig skurrile Weihnachtsspecial wirklich großen Spaß. Für Neueinsteiger ist das Mitkommen aber wahrscheinlich etwas schwierig, denn es gibt wirklich sehr viele Erzählstränge mit bekannten, aber auch einigen neuen Figuren. Die Handlung ist dabei recht ausgewogen zwischen persönlichen Belangen des liebgewonnenen Redaktionsteams und der neuen heraufziehenden Gefahr. Erstmals schlägt der Autor auch ernstere Töne an und schafft es mit nur wenigen Szenen sehr bewegende Kriegserfahrungen zu schildern. Der Schreibstil ist vollgepackt mit witzigen Details und jeder Menge satirischem Humor, wobei mir der Text diesmal etwas pointierter und weniger platt erschien. Erstaunlicherweise gelingt es gleichzeitig den Zauber der Weihnachtszeit, zusammen mit der zunehmenden Ausrichtung auf Konsum darzustellen. Gerade zum Ende hin wird es dann aber nochmal richtig verrückt und sehr amüsant. Für Fans der Reihe ist „Ring the Bells“ also ein absolutes Must-Read, welches ich gerne weiterempfehlen kann!
September 21, 2025
Ring the Bells is book 5 in the Stranger Times series. I recommend you read them from book 1 so that you get the crews back stories.
It's Christmas at the Stranger Times office, and the crew are going through the edits before printing the final edition of the season when the computers are hit with a virus.
Meanwhile, on the other side of Manchester, a well-meaning book group turned witches coven are performing a ritual of peace when they unwittingly summon Zalas a God of chaos.
I love this series of books. Urban horror fantasy that is full of dry humour and hilarious characters.
This is a fabulous Christmas romp, with a mall Santa possessed by an ancient chaos god.... Let the chaos begin.
If you haven't read these, I recommend you do.
Thank you, NetGalley and Publishers, for the ARC.
It's Christmas at the Stranger Times office, and the crew are going through the edits before printing the final edition of the season when the computers are hit with a virus.
Meanwhile, on the other side of Manchester, a well-meaning book group turned witches coven are performing a ritual of peace when they unwittingly summon Zalas a God of chaos.
I love this series of books. Urban horror fantasy that is full of dry humour and hilarious characters.
This is a fabulous Christmas romp, with a mall Santa possessed by an ancient chaos god.... Let the chaos begin.
If you haven't read these, I recommend you do.
Thank you, NetGalley and Publishers, for the ARC.
December 7, 2025
Ding Dong - der Weihnachtsmann ist da. Und dies in göttlicher Form, denn Zalas schert fleißig neue Anhänger um sich.
Dass in Manchester stets kuriose Dinge vor sich gehen ist seit 4 Bänden nichts neues für den Leser. Aber so ein verrücktes Winterwunderland wie hier - damit hätte keiner gerechnet.
C.K. McDonnell hat wieder abgeliefert mit seinem typisch schwarzhumorigen, subtil sarkastischen Schreibstil.
Weihnachtsstimmung ist hier vorprogrammiert. Winterzauber, wahre Gläubige, herzzerreißende Familiengeschichten und der übliche Stress der Vorweihnachtszeit. Und dies gepaart mit einer würzigen Prise Chaos. Perfekt!
Wie kein zweiter schafft es McDonnell die vielen Handlungsstränge, welche bereits in den Vorbänden geschaffen wurden, weiter zu verflechten.
Und wenn man diese bunte Truppe nun so lange schon begleitet, sind diese einem bereits arg ans Herz gewachsen. Besonders Banecroft, welchem man seine derben Beleidigungen gar nicht wegdenken möchte. (Auch wenn er sich weiterhin langsam zu einem leichten Softie entwickelt – Pfui Teufel!)
Auch hier wurden neue Figuren eingeführt bzw. wurden intensiver beleuchtet. Ich liebte jeden Auftritt von John Mor!
Einziger kleiner Kritikpunkt: Durch die Fülle an Personen, blieben viele bestehende Charaktere etwas blass bzw. eindimensional. Zu diesen hat man kaum etwas Neues erfahren.
Aber das ist meckern auf hohem Niveau, denn das war wieder ein ganz großes (Weihnachts-) Fest beim Lesen!
Dass in Manchester stets kuriose Dinge vor sich gehen ist seit 4 Bänden nichts neues für den Leser. Aber so ein verrücktes Winterwunderland wie hier - damit hätte keiner gerechnet.
C.K. McDonnell hat wieder abgeliefert mit seinem typisch schwarzhumorigen, subtil sarkastischen Schreibstil.
Weihnachtsstimmung ist hier vorprogrammiert. Winterzauber, wahre Gläubige, herzzerreißende Familiengeschichten und der übliche Stress der Vorweihnachtszeit. Und dies gepaart mit einer würzigen Prise Chaos. Perfekt!
Wie kein zweiter schafft es McDonnell die vielen Handlungsstränge, welche bereits in den Vorbänden geschaffen wurden, weiter zu verflechten.
Und wenn man diese bunte Truppe nun so lange schon begleitet, sind diese einem bereits arg ans Herz gewachsen. Besonders Banecroft, welchem man seine derben Beleidigungen gar nicht wegdenken möchte. (Auch wenn er sich weiterhin langsam zu einem leichten Softie entwickelt – Pfui Teufel!)
Auch hier wurden neue Figuren eingeführt bzw. wurden intensiver beleuchtet. Ich liebte jeden Auftritt von John Mor!
Einziger kleiner Kritikpunkt: Durch die Fülle an Personen, blieben viele bestehende Charaktere etwas blass bzw. eindimensional. Zu diesen hat man kaum etwas Neues erfahren.
Aber das ist meckern auf hohem Niveau, denn das war wieder ein ganz großes (Weihnachts-) Fest beim Lesen!
December 15, 2025
Much like the previous entries, this is a fun ride filled with embarrassingly laugh in public comedic moments. I welled up at the end, after some significant broader character developments
My only minor gripe is that by fitting in all of the different story threads, the pace is a little uneven, and the main plot feels a little neglected. In many ways, this feels like one of the episodes where a main plot is the structure needed to hang off the more important character or wider arc developments
My only minor gripe is that by fitting in all of the different story threads, the pace is a little uneven, and the main plot feels a little neglected. In many ways, this feels like one of the episodes where a main plot is the structure needed to hang off the more important character or wider arc developments
September 26, 2025
Another weird and wonderful romp of an adventure with The Stranger Times gang. Grace and Ox take the kids to see Santa, what could possibly go wrong with festive cheer? A librarian’s book club explodes after a demonically bad book choice. Stella contracts an infection that’s a nightmare to get rid of. All with the comedic prose and fast paced wit of the previous books this is a great Christmas themed addition to the series.
November 20, 2025
I just love this series so much! I enjoyed this part of it to no end, and must admit that this kind of intelligent entertainment came at just the right time for me. I was really in need of a few good laughs, and this book provides more than a few. This time, we also get a moving backstory for Manny, what a treat! Looking forward to the next one, may it present itself as soon as possible!
December 4, 2025
This book was so much fun! As always it took me a few chapters to adjust to the writing style and fall back in love with the characters. After that it was just fast paced shenanigans that had me smiling and laughing out loud. As always it left me wanting more and anticipating the next book in the series.
December 20, 2025
Christmas is nearly here, but then there’s a triple murder, someone hacks into the Stranger Times and, oh yes, an evil God has ventured back into this dimension. Just an ordinary day for the Stranger Times team. Can they stop a Christmas apocalypse?
Another bonkers and fun story from the Stranger Times team.
Another bonkers and fun story from the Stranger Times team.
December 25, 2025
This was one of my favorite books of this series
I love that at this point I know the characters so well its like dipping in and seeing what craziness they are up to this week. The characters in this are great they're so real they fly off the page. The ending was very sad but up until that part I was laughing my way through this and just having a great time reading
I love that at this point I know the characters so well its like dipping in and seeing what craziness they are up to this week. The characters in this are great they're so real they fly off the page. The ending was very sad but up until that part I was laughing my way through this and just having a great time reading
October 11, 2025
I love the Stranger Times series, it’s fun, with good characters and really weird goings on. Alongside Jodi Taylor these are my go to fantasy reads.
November 12, 2025
A brillant installment in what is quickly becoming my favourite urban fantasy series. I can’t remember the last time a book made me cry and laugh as much as this did. Well done, Caimh, you bastard.
December 29, 2025
I don't know if this is because I haven't read any of the other Stranger Times books but this one wasn't for me.
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