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She of Strangeness
Karel has been kidnapped into an unwanted marriage. Worse yet, she finds herself in a society where brutality toward captive women is the accepted norm. This puts a severe strain on Karel’s belief that it is her duty to remain objective, abide by any and all local customs, learn as much as she can and never pass judgment. It is small comfort when Mari, her co-wife and co-captive, tells her that Sang, the husband they now share, is less cruel than most. Mari also lets slip that some of the captive women try to run away, and Karel happily accepts that as another custom she’s entitled to follow.
Karel’s first attempt at escape ends in recapture, and her punishment is very severe and very public. Can she regain the courage to try again? If she does, can she succeed?
260 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 18, 2014
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
July 31, 2026
This is a really well written book, the details in the writing easily took me into the story. Great character and story development that left me wanting more. This is my first time reading this author and I'm so happy that I chose to read and review the book. I recommend making sure you have some time along with a comfortable place to stay for quite a while as you shall not want to stop reading once you start.
Did Not Finish
March 14, 2026I just couldn't get through it. the writing was horrible
October 7, 2019
Great story
5 stars for originality of plot, world-building, and (my favorite part) the creation of a special language/ phrasing—different and special enough to be part of this unique world, but also clearly understandable, clever, and not overbearing. The author uses distinctive descriptors in painting and explaining this world that, while fiction here, has been unfortunately all too real for too many on our planet.
5 stars for originality of plot, world-building, and (my favorite part) the creation of a special language/ phrasing—different and special enough to be part of this unique world, but also clearly understandable, clever, and not overbearing. The author uses distinctive descriptors in painting and explaining this world that, while fiction here, has been unfortunately all too real for too many on our planet.
July 9, 2021
This book was … something entirely different for starters. I thoroughly enjoyed the plot however I found it a bit tiring to read because of the special language (you’ll understand what I mean when you read it). Other than that, it was a very original story and quite the read
July 21, 2021
An exciting story full of interesting events, it has a deep meaning that expresses the current issues in a different way. It is truly an inspiring story.
May 18, 2023
Great Story!
"She of Strangeness" takes readers on a gripping journey through a society where brutality towards captive women is the norm. Karel, the protagonist, finds herself in an unwanted marriage and must navigate the challenges of remaining objective while facing the harsh customs and violence around her. The book explores themes of captivity, societal norms, and the struggle to maintain one's values in an unfamiliar and harsh environment.
The author skillfully portrays Karel's internal struggle to reconcile her duty to abide by local customs with her own sense of justice. Karel's strong sense of justice and empathy for others, particularly the mistreated captive women, adds depth to her character and makes her journey all the more compelling.
The story is filled with tension and suspense as Karel's relationships with other characters, such as Mari and Sang, evolve. The exploration of different customs, the dynamics between characters, and the challenges faced by Karel provide ample material for intriguing plot developments and moral dilemmas.
The writing style is evocative and descriptive, effectively immersing readers in the world of the story. The author expertly captures the emotions and experiences of the characters, making their struggles feel palpable and relatable. The dialogue is engaging and reveals the complexities of the characters' relationships and motivations.
One notable aspect of the book is the exploration of gender roles and power dynamics. The society depicted in the story is deeply patriarchal, and the treatment of captive women highlights the systemic brutality and inequality they face. Through Karel's perspective, readers are prompted to question societal norms and the importance of challenging oppressive systems.
Overall, this book is a compelling and thought-provoking novel that tackles important themes within a captivating narrative. The book's engaging plot, well-developed characters, and exploration of societal norms make it a worthwhile read for those interested in thought-provoking speculative fiction.
"She of Strangeness" takes readers on a gripping journey through a society where brutality towards captive women is the norm. Karel, the protagonist, finds herself in an unwanted marriage and must navigate the challenges of remaining objective while facing the harsh customs and violence around her. The book explores themes of captivity, societal norms, and the struggle to maintain one's values in an unfamiliar and harsh environment.
The author skillfully portrays Karel's internal struggle to reconcile her duty to abide by local customs with her own sense of justice. Karel's strong sense of justice and empathy for others, particularly the mistreated captive women, adds depth to her character and makes her journey all the more compelling.
The story is filled with tension and suspense as Karel's relationships with other characters, such as Mari and Sang, evolve. The exploration of different customs, the dynamics between characters, and the challenges faced by Karel provide ample material for intriguing plot developments and moral dilemmas.
The writing style is evocative and descriptive, effectively immersing readers in the world of the story. The author expertly captures the emotions and experiences of the characters, making their struggles feel palpable and relatable. The dialogue is engaging and reveals the complexities of the characters' relationships and motivations.
One notable aspect of the book is the exploration of gender roles and power dynamics. The society depicted in the story is deeply patriarchal, and the treatment of captive women highlights the systemic brutality and inequality they face. Through Karel's perspective, readers are prompted to question societal norms and the importance of challenging oppressive systems.
Overall, this book is a compelling and thought-provoking novel that tackles important themes within a captivating narrative. The book's engaging plot, well-developed characters, and exploration of societal norms make it a worthwhile read for those interested in thought-provoking speculative fiction.
August 14, 2021
This was a decent read. The most difficult part for me in this book, like for many others was the language. The author used their own "Special" language in the book, which honestly was quite challenging to read, and the main reason it took me a long while to finish this book.
However, apart from the language, I couldn't really find any bad remarks in the book. The plot is incredible, the main character Karla is interpreted very well. This book just takes you inside an awesome story, which once you enter, is hard to leave.
I had a good time reading it, but don't recommend this book to new aspiring readers, since the language is pretty tough. Took me, a regular reader some getting used to..
In the end, I'd like to thank BookTasters for hooking me up with yet another awesome read. These guys are the real deal!
However, apart from the language, I couldn't really find any bad remarks in the book. The plot is incredible, the main character Karla is interpreted very well. This book just takes you inside an awesome story, which once you enter, is hard to leave.
I had a good time reading it, but don't recommend this book to new aspiring readers, since the language is pretty tough. Took me, a regular reader some getting used to..
In the end, I'd like to thank BookTasters for hooking me up with yet another awesome read. These guys are the real deal!
July 11, 2021
"She of Strangeness."
The prowess of imagination hides some junction of language which may or may not confuse the reader. Somewhere around the corner, the flickering language will take you in misery, where the reader will yearn to understand some irregular phrases. There is nothing that light editing will not change. The novel has the characteristics of a masterpiece... But it's just rough around the edges in terms of language.
To sum it up I would say the base story is really a worth read. But you need to really put yourself while understanding the phrases. I really love how the author has created his own language and terms. He has put a lot of hard work into it. But sometimes while reading I got lost who is who.
So I would give this story 3 out of 5 stars.
The prowess of imagination hides some junction of language which may or may not confuse the reader. Somewhere around the corner, the flickering language will take you in misery, where the reader will yearn to understand some irregular phrases. There is nothing that light editing will not change. The novel has the characteristics of a masterpiece... But it's just rough around the edges in terms of language.
To sum it up I would say the base story is really a worth read. But you need to really put yourself while understanding the phrases. I really love how the author has created his own language and terms. He has put a lot of hard work into it. But sometimes while reading I got lost who is who.
So I would give this story 3 out of 5 stars.
August 5, 2021
Actually this is a hard reading for me. English is not my mother tongue. But I never see that as a difficulty because I've already used to read book in English.
But, this book have their own language - still in English - but with strange structure and it made me difficult to connect the story. At first I was confused by the background, not expecting to use the background of outer space and other planets in this book.
For the story actually it's pretty good and I like Karla, the main character, she is brave and clever. If only this book use "normal" language maybe I can love it and can finish the book faster. But it really hard for me. Kudos to the writer who can make his own language. This must be really hard!
But, this book have their own language - still in English - but with strange structure and it made me difficult to connect the story. At first I was confused by the background, not expecting to use the background of outer space and other planets in this book.
For the story actually it's pretty good and I like Karla, the main character, she is brave and clever. If only this book use "normal" language maybe I can love it and can finish the book faster. But it really hard for me. Kudos to the writer who can make his own language. This must be really hard!
January 30, 2026
Jones has created an intricate environment with three groups of people interacting as little as possible, while being somewhat interdependent. And two other groups that are apart from them. The first is the scouts from Earth, visiting promising planets, seeking intelligent life. The other is an indigenous lifeform that knows of the first three but is largely unknown and thoroughly misunderstood by the other four groups.
The book is not always easy to read, as the three groups on planet speak a devolved English, akin to Russell Hoban's amazing work Riddley Walker. It took me a while to get into the swing of their verbiage. I am curious about what happens to these people and this world, but there is as yet no promise of a second book.
The book is not always easy to read, as the three groups on planet speak a devolved English, akin to Russell Hoban's amazing work Riddley Walker. It took me a while to get into the swing of their verbiage. I am curious about what happens to these people and this world, but there is as yet no promise of a second book.
September 8, 2021
I found She of Strangeness a little hard to follow. Perhaps it was because I'm not precisely fond with such fantasy. Nevertheless, I need to remark how interesting it was to challenge myself with the way language was used.
The characters are very well constructed, although I found some exagerated performances and a few cliche's. The plot is good, but not great.
What I loved the most was not the plot, but the calling for tolerance and resilience I found on its pages. Perhaps I would like to read it again, someday.
The characters are very well constructed, although I found some exagerated performances and a few cliche's. The plot is good, but not great.
What I loved the most was not the plot, but the calling for tolerance and resilience I found on its pages. Perhaps I would like to read it again, someday.
January 21, 2026
She of Strangeness is a deeply moving and unsettling novel that stays with you long after finishing. Karel is a fascinating protagonist whose struggle between cultural objectivity and personal survival feels painfully real. The worldbuilding is harsh yet believable, and the emotional tension is constant. The relationship between Karel and Mari adds warmth and complexity in an otherwise brutal setting. This is a courageous, thought provoking story about resilience, autonomy, and the cost of hope.
February 20, 2026
A scifi adventure
Not a book I typically read this one is interesting for sure
Karel is a solider but she would say she's more a diplomatic sort of envoy and when she's on a mission that ends up with her stranded, well it begins an unusual if life changing journey for her.
This book takes you into a world of plot twist, mind games, it's thought provoking and at the heart of it a single character that you connect with once you learn who she is.
This author is a first time read for me but so good!
Not a book I typically read this one is interesting for sure
Karel is a solider but she would say she's more a diplomatic sort of envoy and when she's on a mission that ends up with her stranded, well it begins an unusual if life changing journey for her.
This book takes you into a world of plot twist, mind games, it's thought provoking and at the heart of it a single character that you connect with once you learn who she is.
This author is a first time read for me but so good!
April 16, 2026
I went into this book not knowing what the story would be about. Boy, what a read! First off, I normally do not read books about space travel or aliens. This book was definitely a learning experience. The verbal conversations were very difficult to understand so I was right there with Karel when trying to understand this foreign language. Thank goodness the author was good at describing body language and the reactions of the people. As I read further I began to translate the language more easily. I felt this book was entertaining and eye opening to a genre I have not read before.
August 8, 2025
This story hooked me from the very first chapter and never let go. Karel, an Interstellar Scout trained for diplomacy and objectivity, faces the ultimate test of her skills when a supposed first contact mission turns into a perilous entanglement with a long lost human colony. The worldbuilding is sharp and immersive, presenting a fascinating social structure split into three tribes each with its own customs, conflicts, and moral dilemmas.
February 17, 2026
She of Strangeness by John Sheldon Jones is a smart, character driven sci-fi adventure that blends first contact intrigue with deep moral questions. Karel’s journey as an interstellar scout is both gripping and emotionally layered, especially as cultural clashes and survival challenges unfold. The world building is imaginative, the pacing is tight, and the themes of intelligence, compassion, and resilience linger long after the final page. A truly memorable read for thoughtful sci-fi fans.
April 29, 2026
Honestly, She of Strangeness was such a unique read. I expected a normal sci-fi story, but it had so much more emotion and depth than I thought. Karel’s journey felt real, especially with the grief and survival parts, and the whole story kept me hooked. I also liked how the characters weren’t just simple “good” or “bad” people—they felt human. The world-building was really interesting too. Definitely a book that stays on your mind after finishing it.
May 15, 2026
She of Strangeness by J Sheldon Jones - This book differed substantially from my usual literary choices. The most daunting aspect for me was the distinctive language utilized throughout the narrative. The language posed a challenge, slowing my progress and preventing me from finishing the book promptly. Nevertheless, the story merits attention, but the language may discourage certain readers. I awarded three stars, mainly owing to the language.
August 28, 2021
A fair read, out of my reading genre but if you read it with an open mind you will get to appreciate the writers creativity. A unique language is used which is good for creative writers to broaden the scope, but the language sometimes makes a reader lost. Otherwise it's a fair book, I will rate it 3/5!
February 23, 2026
I really love this sci-fi fiction it was a very good read. I really like how the story grabs your attention, and kept you pretty strong held through the whole thing. I love how the world was built up the characters all blended beautifully. Overall it was an absolutely amazing book I was very grateful for the opportunity to read this book and look forward to reading the rest of the series.
March 21, 2026
I keep telling myself not to ever DNF a book. But unfortunately this is one of those that I just can't get through. I made it 40% before I decided that I had to stop.
The characters are very hard to relate to and the language that is spoken is so terrible, it's hard to keep up. Please know that this is my opinion. This book just didn't work for me.
The characters are very hard to relate to and the language that is spoken is so terrible, it's hard to keep up. Please know that this is my opinion. This book just didn't work for me.
January 17, 2026
A smart, thought-provoking sci-fi story that blends first contact, cultural conflict, and survival with real tension. The world-building is sharp, the moral dilemmas feel authentic, and Karel is a compelling, capable lead. A gripping and original take on alien contact and human nature.
February 17, 2026
Absolutely gripping. Karel’s journey made me rethink what survival really means. After discussing this at today’s book club event, I realized just how deep the themes of cultural conflict and personal agency go. A powerful read.
February 17, 2026
I loved this book from start to finish. The worldbuilding was rich, and the moral complexities of Karel’s choices stayed with me long after reading. Perfect for book club conversation, and today’s discussion proved it.
February 17, 2026
This was my first sci fi novel that truly felt literary. The emotional depth and thought provoking questions raised made today’s event engaging and memorable. A standout novel that I will recommend again and again.
February 17, 2026
I really enjoyed this story and the unique perspective on captivity and morality. A few pacing spots felt slow for me, but the character development and today’s thoughtful discussion made it well worth the read.
February 17, 2026
Strong concept and compelling protagonist. I found some worldbuilding details a bit dense, yet the emotional core of the story carried me through. Great choice for readers who enjoy books that spark conversation.
February 17, 2026
A bold and interesting novel with a vivid setting. While a couple of plot arcs could have been smoother, the ethical questions it raises led to an excellent discussion at today’s event, which made the experience even more rewarding.
February 17, 2026
I found the exploration of cultural norms, captivity, and resistance fascinating. The moral questions raised about observation vs. action really stayed with me. Some parts were hard to follow, but overall it’s an unforgettable read
February 17, 2026
“A brilliantly original sci-fi adventure the world-building is immersive, and the author’s creation of a unique language and cultural system makes this story unforgettable. I was completely drawn into Karel’s journey from the very first page.”
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews