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Strange Series #1
Relatively Strange (Strange Series): A Roller-Coaster Of A Psi-Fi Thriller
1950s, London, England. A baby girl was born - that was me. My parents had no inkling I was different. Naturally, neither did I, and it was quite a while before it dawned on me that nobody else saw and heard as I did.
Luckily my family were on the paranoid side , and as they came to understand more about what I was and what I could do, paranoia proved politic. Taking everything into account, I think we managed well, and it wasn’t anybody’s fault that things took a turn for the dangerous before heading for life-threatening. After all, you have to learn to take the rough with the smooth.
* * *
Another Roller-Coaster of a Psi-Fi Thriller in the Strange Series. Perfect for fans of Stephen King and Janet Evanovich.
Luckily my family were on the paranoid side , and as they came to understand more about what I was and what I could do, paranoia proved politic. Taking everything into account, I think we managed well, and it wasn’t anybody’s fault that things took a turn for the dangerous before heading for life-threatening. After all, you have to learn to take the rough with the smooth.
* * *
Another Roller-Coaster of a Psi-Fi Thriller in the Strange Series. Perfect for fans of Stephen King and Janet Evanovich.
294 pages, Hardcover
First published November 26, 2013
105 people are currently reading
192 people want to read
About the author
Marilyn Messik
37 books28 followersMarilyn was a regular feature and fiction writer for national magazines when her children were small. She set up her first business from home, selling toys, books and party goods, before opening first one shop then another. When she sold both shops, she moved into the world of travel, focusing on B & B’s and Country Inns in New England, USA. Her advisory, planning and booking service flourished and she concurrently launched a publishing company, producing annual, full-colour accommodation guides to the areas.
In 2007 she set up a copywriting consultancy, to help businesses shape their messages to optimum effect. She’s blogged for The Telegraph online; published the Vintage Ladies Collection; written four Business Books and four Paranormal Thrillers.
She’s been married to her very patient husband for more years than he deserves, and they have two children, five grandchildren and, somewhat to their surprise, several granddogs.
In 2007 she set up a copywriting consultancy, to help businesses shape their messages to optimum effect. She’s blogged for The Telegraph online; published the Vintage Ladies Collection; written four Business Books and four Paranormal Thrillers.
She’s been married to her very patient husband for more years than he deserves, and they have two children, five grandchildren and, somewhat to their surprise, several granddogs.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 134 reviews
May 23, 2016
After reading the first few words of this story, I knew I was going to love it.
“I was five when I discovered I could fly, sixteen when I killed a man. Both events were unsettling in their own way.”
Relatively Strange is a fascinating story about growing up when you’re somewhat different to most of those around you. Enriched with some wonderfully quirky characters, this story made me think of Mary Poppins as a child and The Worst Witch.
I loved the style of writing and the way the descriptions completely sucked me into the story. I loved the humour that had me repeatedly giggling away to myself. That didn’t make me look strange at all.
“One way and another I didn’t know whether I was Arthur, Martha or an iced tea cake.”
I felt the story became more serious as it progressed, which I also loved. Having studied psychology at A’ Level and university, I found parts of the story fascinating, and it made me think about the extremes some psychologists went to for their research.
Although there is action and excitement in the story, for me personally I think the strength of this book is the focus on human nature. The differences between individuals. That it is okay to be different. The value of knowing the difference between right and wrong. Choosing to do good with the personal strengths we each have. I think every reader could benefit from being reminded of the power and influence we each hold as individuals, and the importance of making the right choices.
“We tried,” she said softly, “Never to forget that for every man or woman who sinks to untold levels of wickedness, depravity and sheer inhumanity there are others who rise equally in the opposite direction.”
“To harm is so easy, to heal, a different thing altogether.”
I highly recommend this to fans of both adult and young adult fiction, those who like their books to be a little unusual, and those who are driven by great characters.
I won a signed copy of this book via THE Book Club on Facebook over a year ago, and I’m ashamed to say it has taken me this long to read it. I’m sure the main reason was the whole ‘Oh my goodness, it’s a physically book, and having had a Kindle for three years, I’ve forgotten how to change pages or use a real life bookmark’. Thankfully I managed to face this daunting challenge head on and enjoy this great book. I’m really looking forward to reading the second book, Even Stranger, and I’m certain I won’t be waiting a year to read that one.
Before I go, while on the subject of things being strange, a reference to ‘red herrings’ in this book made me think of how books never actually explained what a red herring was. I had never heard the word ‘herring’ before, so for some reason, as a young girl, if I ever read it in a book, I pictured quite a large bird with bright red feathers (and still do, but shhh, other people don’t need to know that do they, so let’s keep that between us).
“I was five when I discovered I could fly, sixteen when I killed a man. Both events were unsettling in their own way.”
Relatively Strange is a fascinating story about growing up when you’re somewhat different to most of those around you. Enriched with some wonderfully quirky characters, this story made me think of Mary Poppins as a child and The Worst Witch.
I loved the style of writing and the way the descriptions completely sucked me into the story. I loved the humour that had me repeatedly giggling away to myself. That didn’t make me look strange at all.
“One way and another I didn’t know whether I was Arthur, Martha or an iced tea cake.”
I felt the story became more serious as it progressed, which I also loved. Having studied psychology at A’ Level and university, I found parts of the story fascinating, and it made me think about the extremes some psychologists went to for their research.
Although there is action and excitement in the story, for me personally I think the strength of this book is the focus on human nature. The differences between individuals. That it is okay to be different. The value of knowing the difference between right and wrong. Choosing to do good with the personal strengths we each have. I think every reader could benefit from being reminded of the power and influence we each hold as individuals, and the importance of making the right choices.
“We tried,” she said softly, “Never to forget that for every man or woman who sinks to untold levels of wickedness, depravity and sheer inhumanity there are others who rise equally in the opposite direction.”
“To harm is so easy, to heal, a different thing altogether.”
I highly recommend this to fans of both adult and young adult fiction, those who like their books to be a little unusual, and those who are driven by great characters.
I won a signed copy of this book via THE Book Club on Facebook over a year ago, and I’m ashamed to say it has taken me this long to read it. I’m sure the main reason was the whole ‘Oh my goodness, it’s a physically book, and having had a Kindle for three years, I’ve forgotten how to change pages or use a real life bookmark’. Thankfully I managed to face this daunting challenge head on and enjoy this great book. I’m really looking forward to reading the second book, Even Stranger, and I’m certain I won’t be waiting a year to read that one.
Before I go, while on the subject of things being strange, a reference to ‘red herrings’ in this book made me think of how books never actually explained what a red herring was. I had never heard the word ‘herring’ before, so for some reason, as a young girl, if I ever read it in a book, I pictured quite a large bird with bright red feathers (and still do, but shhh, other people don’t need to know that do they, so let’s keep that between us).
January 26, 2016
This book totally took me out of my comfort zone.
So in all honestly, why did I read it?
I am a sucker for a great cover and one that catches my eye [yep, I'm shallow]
But the blurb enticed me.
I am so glad that I dared to tip my toe into the water of a book that I may have turned away from because, I thoroughly enjoyed it. I think the author Merilyn Messik writes so well its believable and you come to accept everything about it.
Stella has these abilities to do things that others of the 'norm' cannot.
I thought....hmmm
But you know what, what is the norm? What is acceptable and what is not?
Don't we all have some things in our life that others do not accept and find odd about us?
Well, this is Stella. And each of us are unique, so is Stella.
We see how Stella had to adjust at times to "fit in" and become "acceptable" to others in her walk of life.
Haven't we all got to do that at times, some of us don't have to think about it, but if you did stop and think, I bet there were occasions when you did have to adjust.
Stella meets many trials along the way and none worse that facing a head on medical experiment.
Stella comes from good Jewish stock. She has many abilities, such as psychokinesis ( to be able to move objects just using her mind]
I couldn't help thinking of that TV Programme years ago called Bewitched.
The part that was played in it [ok she was a 'nice witch'] but she had powers to do certain things, sometimes for the good and sometimes because she just got upset. Stella at times came across like this with a great sense of humour which had times made me chuckle.
There are sad times, happy times and amusing times and some very trialing times for Stella within the pages of this read.
I found this wonderfully strange......but at the same time, acceptable.
*My thanks to the author"
So in all honestly, why did I read it?
I am a sucker for a great cover and one that catches my eye [yep, I'm shallow]
But the blurb enticed me.
I am so glad that I dared to tip my toe into the water of a book that I may have turned away from because, I thoroughly enjoyed it. I think the author Merilyn Messik writes so well its believable and you come to accept everything about it.
Stella has these abilities to do things that others of the 'norm' cannot.
I thought....hmmm
But you know what, what is the norm? What is acceptable and what is not?
Don't we all have some things in our life that others do not accept and find odd about us?
Well, this is Stella. And each of us are unique, so is Stella.
We see how Stella had to adjust at times to "fit in" and become "acceptable" to others in her walk of life.
Haven't we all got to do that at times, some of us don't have to think about it, but if you did stop and think, I bet there were occasions when you did have to adjust.
Stella meets many trials along the way and none worse that facing a head on medical experiment.
Stella comes from good Jewish stock. She has many abilities, such as psychokinesis ( to be able to move objects just using her mind]
I couldn't help thinking of that TV Programme years ago called Bewitched.
The part that was played in it [ok she was a 'nice witch'] but she had powers to do certain things, sometimes for the good and sometimes because she just got upset. Stella at times came across like this with a great sense of humour which had times made me chuckle.
There are sad times, happy times and amusing times and some very trialing times for Stella within the pages of this read.
I found this wonderfully strange......but at the same time, acceptable.
*My thanks to the author"
February 15, 2017
Relatively Strange is basically relatively strange! I am not sure where to categorise this odd book, but with a wonderfully dark and self depreciating, typically Jewish sarcastic humour running through out it certainly tickled me. Meet Stella a young Jewish girl with extraordinary powers of mind reading, levitation, telekinesis plus a wicked sense of humour. Follow her from her earliest memories when she accidentally flew to her strange and eventful teenage years. A wonderfully strange book and I hope the author is writing a follow up. Definitely recommend
February 14, 2017
OHMIDAYS! OHMIDAYS! What a book! I have laughed out loud, I have wept with sorrow and run the gamut of every emotion in between. I love Stella, weirdly wonderful Stella and her marvellous, accepting family. The book is so clever and Stella is so believable that at one stage I found myself thinking, "maybe, if I just let go, I could fly". It genuinely felt like I was reading her diary. I want Stella to be my friend, I want her parents to come over for dinner. Even the more sinister characters of the Peacock sisters and Glory are heart warming and so lovable, and as for Ed, love him! The paradoxically named Miss Merry and the dreaded doctor are so vile and villainous that I was in awe of the will power of Stella and her friends not to do something unimaginable to them. That is what is at the core of this book, kindness, love, warmth and faith, despite so many examples to the contrary, in one's fellow man. What a fabulous book! 5 happy, bubbly stars
November 1, 2019
Relatively Strange by Marlyn Messik.
"I was five when I discovered I could fly, sixteen when I killed a man. Both events were unsettling in their own way"
Wow. Absolutely fantastic read.
CNPID.
I loved the story and the characters.
I loved Stella.
She was my favourite character.
I loved Ruth too.
Wow. Didn't expect that.
This story just gets better and better.
Had me gripped from start to finish.
Wow.
I loved the ending too. Can't wait to read more.
This is a must read and I would highly recommend this book.
Definitely worth more than 5 *.
"I was five when I discovered I could fly, sixteen when I killed a man. Both events were unsettling in their own way"
Wow. Absolutely fantastic read.
CNPID.
I loved the story and the characters.
I loved Stella.
She was my favourite character.
I loved Ruth too.
Wow. Didn't expect that.
This story just gets better and better.
Had me gripped from start to finish.
Wow.
I loved the ending too. Can't wait to read more.
This is a must read and I would highly recommend this book.
Definitely worth more than 5 *.
June 2, 2016
Thank you to TBC for my arc in return for a honest review.
As soon as I read the blurb I knew I would enjoy this book.
Stella is a girl with ' Strange' power's..power of levitation, telekinesis and a strong wit and a brilliant sense of humour.
This book made me chuckle and kept me on the edge of my seat...quirky book that will make you smile.
As soon as I read the blurb I knew I would enjoy this book.
Stella is a girl with ' Strange' power's..power of levitation, telekinesis and a strong wit and a brilliant sense of humour.
This book made me chuckle and kept me on the edge of my seat...quirky book that will make you smile.
October 17, 2019
Wow! Just Wow!
With so many people raving about this book I just wasn't sure what to expect but I think I was expecting to be let down. This was not the case! This went beyond my expectations.
The first line of the book "I was five when I discovered I could fly, sixteen when I killed a man. Both events were unsettling in their own way." had me intrigued straight away. I couldn't put it down and had it finished in two days.
Marilyn Messik done such a wonderful job writing this that it came to life for me and made it so believable I just wanted to know what happens to the main character Stella. It is written from her point of view and she is particularly interesting as she has some amazing abilities in the form of mind reading, telekinesis, fire starting and levitation (which she called flying) but is also a great personality. I just love her sense of humour.
It follows her life from earliest memories until she starts working and I was gripped every second. Some of her story was very dark and had some very disturbing moments where at other times I just had to laugh out loud at Stella's actions and thoughts and the way they were described.
I am not sure I could put this book into a category of who should read this as personally after finishing early hours of this morning I want to recommend to all to give this a read. I will be on the look out for more by this author as this was first one I had tried but if the rest are even close to as well written I can't wait for more.
With so many people raving about this book I just wasn't sure what to expect but I think I was expecting to be let down. This was not the case! This went beyond my expectations.
The first line of the book "I was five when I discovered I could fly, sixteen when I killed a man. Both events were unsettling in their own way." had me intrigued straight away. I couldn't put it down and had it finished in two days.
Marilyn Messik done such a wonderful job writing this that it came to life for me and made it so believable I just wanted to know what happens to the main character Stella. It is written from her point of view and she is particularly interesting as she has some amazing abilities in the form of mind reading, telekinesis, fire starting and levitation (which she called flying) but is also a great personality. I just love her sense of humour.
It follows her life from earliest memories until she starts working and I was gripped every second. Some of her story was very dark and had some very disturbing moments where at other times I just had to laugh out loud at Stella's actions and thoughts and the way they were described.
I am not sure I could put this book into a category of who should read this as personally after finishing early hours of this morning I want to recommend to all to give this a read. I will be on the look out for more by this author as this was first one I had tried but if the rest are even close to as well written I can't wait for more.
November 17, 2019
This is a very different book but in a good way :)
The story is told from the london area which i know quiet well so i knew some of the places :)
Stella is from a Jewish family and discovers she can fly wish i could lol.
The book is written from stellas point of view she has a sense of humour to which made me laugh..But it was terrifying in other parts of the story....
This is book one of 3 books.....I enjoyed the book greatly well written ......
The story is told from the london area which i know quiet well so i knew some of the places :)
Stella is from a Jewish family and discovers she can fly wish i could lol.
The book is written from stellas point of view she has a sense of humour to which made me laugh..But it was terrifying in other parts of the story....
This is book one of 3 books.....I enjoyed the book greatly well written ......
May 20, 2016
I loved this book. Its a real page turner and I was hooked from the beginning. I laughed and was also on the edge of my seat throughout this book. Great characters and beautifully written. Definitely a must read.
January 21, 2020
A captivating blend of the everyday and extraordinary. 4/5 stars.
This review was originally posted on my book blog.
I’m not sure I’ve ever come across such a perfect book title! And that’s possibly because I haven’t read anything quite like Relatively Strange before. I struggle to describe it, but I think the best I can do is to use a Marvel analogy (and I appreciate I may lose those of you who have no interest in superhero comics or movies, sorry!). Imagine an X-Men character with all their amazing powers, born into a “normal” London-based family in the 1950s, wrote an amusing, highly-personal memoir covering episodes from the first twenty-something years of their life. That’s close to what you get in this book, although it still doesn’t do it justice!
As you might imagine, the discovery and fledgling use of her powers in Stella’s childhood means that she has many amusing and original anecdotes (casually flying off the ground at a large family gathering, for example) which are imparted in a convincing voice which is calm and amused, the tone of someone looking back on an eventful life with the benefit of maturity.
However, while these more comical anecdotes bring levity in the narrative, there are also several more dramatic, serious interludes as Stella is recruited for duties more befitting an X-Man. I don’t want to spoil the plot, so safe to say that her powers also come in useful to fight dark forces, resulting in some gripping, suspenseful episodes.
It’s this combination of the familiar (in both its senses, as many of the funnier moments come from events which have occurred with members of Stella’s vividly-described, wonderful extended family) and the extraordinary, which makes Relatively Strange so varied and readable, with the differences in tone and shade held together by the consistency and clarity of Stella’s first-person voice.
I’m very pleased this is part of a trilogy, as I felt Stella was just getting started on her journey as the book came to a close. I look forward to reading about what she gets up to next.
Overall: if you’re looking for something completely different, a unique combination of extraordinary drama and comic mundanity, the supernatural and banal, I urge you to give Relatively Strange a try.
This review was originally posted on my book blog.
I’m not sure I’ve ever come across such a perfect book title! And that’s possibly because I haven’t read anything quite like Relatively Strange before. I struggle to describe it, but I think the best I can do is to use a Marvel analogy (and I appreciate I may lose those of you who have no interest in superhero comics or movies, sorry!). Imagine an X-Men character with all their amazing powers, born into a “normal” London-based family in the 1950s, wrote an amusing, highly-personal memoir covering episodes from the first twenty-something years of their life. That’s close to what you get in this book, although it still doesn’t do it justice!
As you might imagine, the discovery and fledgling use of her powers in Stella’s childhood means that she has many amusing and original anecdotes (casually flying off the ground at a large family gathering, for example) which are imparted in a convincing voice which is calm and amused, the tone of someone looking back on an eventful life with the benefit of maturity.
However, while these more comical anecdotes bring levity in the narrative, there are also several more dramatic, serious interludes as Stella is recruited for duties more befitting an X-Man. I don’t want to spoil the plot, so safe to say that her powers also come in useful to fight dark forces, resulting in some gripping, suspenseful episodes.
It’s this combination of the familiar (in both its senses, as many of the funnier moments come from events which have occurred with members of Stella’s vividly-described, wonderful extended family) and the extraordinary, which makes Relatively Strange so varied and readable, with the differences in tone and shade held together by the consistency and clarity of Stella’s first-person voice.
I’m very pleased this is part of a trilogy, as I felt Stella was just getting started on her journey as the book came to a close. I look forward to reading about what she gets up to next.
Overall: if you’re looking for something completely different, a unique combination of extraordinary drama and comic mundanity, the supernatural and banal, I urge you to give Relatively Strange a try.
April 3, 2022
The story centered on Stella who was born with psychokineses, telephathy and levitation abilities. As she grew up she learned how to work and control it to the detriment of her parents who preferred for her to untap it and appear normal to other people. Later on in life, she was conflicted over whether to use it for the benefit of others or keep it dormant. This lead her to meeting similarly gifted individuals with psi powers Glory, Ruth and Rachel Peacock and Ed who further helped develop her skills. The style of writing was quirky and humorous at best. It was hard not to laugh at the eccentricities of Stella's relatives. The characters were well developed. The denouement left something to be desired and was less ideal in my own humble opinion. When Stella was working as a secretary, she had the opportunity to assist a colleague. I felt the ending left the reader hanging in dry air. The storyline from Chapters 50-52 was kind of unfinished in the sense that the reader was left to formulate her own conclusion about Stella's internal struggles. I would have enjoyed it better if at the end, the writer would have at least demonstrated explicitly that Stella was able to come in terms with her psi abilities.
November 12, 2019
Where to begin?
First, thank you Voracious Readers and Marilyn Messik for the ARC.
I always tend to go for thrillers or romcom books (when a break from the doom and gloom is needed), so this was a nice change of pace.
I really liked the main character and was really able to relate to her (obviously not talking about her "gifted" nature) and her coping mechanisms.
We all wished (or let's say we did) we could fly, move things from afar, or read minds, but what it would also means is secrecy, risks, and ambitious people studying (read: torturing) you in the name of science. The later being thoroughly showed in the book.
All in all, I really enjoyed reading it and can only recommend you reading it.
((The only issue I have is not knowing more about what happens to the side characters (in particular Sam, and Ed) - part 2 maybe?))
First, thank you Voracious Readers and Marilyn Messik for the ARC.
I always tend to go for thrillers or romcom books (when a break from the doom and gloom is needed), so this was a nice change of pace.
I really liked the main character and was really able to relate to her (obviously not talking about her "gifted" nature) and her coping mechanisms.
We all wished (or let's say we did) we could fly, move things from afar, or read minds, but what it would also means is secrecy, risks, and ambitious people studying (read: torturing) you in the name of science. The later being thoroughly showed in the book.
All in all, I really enjoyed reading it and can only recommend you reading it.
((The only issue I have is not knowing more about what happens to the side characters (in particular Sam, and Ed) - part 2 maybe?))
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 15, 2020
Relatively Strange by Marilyn Messik is a delightful read. The prose is exquisite, the storyline unique, and the tension keeps rising. Written in the first person, Stella, the protagonist, tells us what it was like growing up “strange” in a world of normals. She needed to learn to control her psi powers and keeps her strangeness to herself and immediate family.
When her friend’s father tries to kill the friend and mother, Stella reacts using her strange abilities. The consequence triggers the equivalent of a psychic scream which others with the ability hear and approach her to help them save a six-year-old. At that point, the story intensifies and becomes the roller-coaster psi-fi thriller it purports to be.
If you enjoy paranormal thrillers, don’t miss this one. If you are like me, you won’t want to miss the next books in the Strange Series.
When her friend’s father tries to kill the friend and mother, Stella reacts using her strange abilities. The consequence triggers the equivalent of a psychic scream which others with the ability hear and approach her to help them save a six-year-old. At that point, the story intensifies and becomes the roller-coaster psi-fi thriller it purports to be.
If you enjoy paranormal thrillers, don’t miss this one. If you are like me, you won’t want to miss the next books in the Strange Series.
November 12, 2019
This is a unique, captivating story about Stella, and is unlike anything I have ever read.
The story follows the journey of Stella, a young Jewish girl who finds that she has 'strange' abilities /talents which grow and adapt and it looks at how these abilities affect not only Stella but those around her.
There are many humorous moments but the mood grows darker and takes a serious tone as we move through the story.
The writer shows her talent throughout with beautiful prose and incredibly well written, complex, believable characters.
I am not sure what genre to place this book but if you are looking for a quirky, unique, incredibly well written book then look no further!!
I can't wait to read the next one!!
The story follows the journey of Stella, a young Jewish girl who finds that she has 'strange' abilities /talents which grow and adapt and it looks at how these abilities affect not only Stella but those around her.
There are many humorous moments but the mood grows darker and takes a serious tone as we move through the story.
The writer shows her talent throughout with beautiful prose and incredibly well written, complex, believable characters.
I am not sure what genre to place this book but if you are looking for a quirky, unique, incredibly well written book then look no further!!
I can't wait to read the next one!!
January 22, 2021
My first DNF. Usually I have a hard time giving up on a book even if I really want to but this one was just too difficult. I don't think I even read enough to say it was a bad book but maybe it just really wasn't for me. It sounded interesting enough at first but I just could not get into it once I started reading. I was having to force myself so hard that it just wasn't worth it. Perhaps the book would have gotten better later on but it just took too much effort for me to keep going.
May 25, 2016
Growing up has its difficulties for everyone and it is tricky to know whats normal if you're not! Stella, certainly has no hesitation filing herself in the unusual drawer, but its only when she discovers she is not unique that, what up until now has merely cause some extraordinary blips in an ordinary life, acquires a whole new dimension. Forced to haul in resources she didn't know she possessed, she is thrust into the violence of a situation for which nothing could have prepared her, face to face with the stark reality of medical experimentation and its horrifying consequences.
In a world of uncertainties though, one thing is beyond doubt... This hero stuff just isn't her. Normal, or as near as damn it, is what she is after and if that means smothering her instincts, building her shielding and adjusting her expectations well, so be it. At least she will know, should she slip off the wagon occasionally it will be through her own choice, not chance and to suit herself.
I awarded Relatively Strange five stars as I really enjoyed reading it and it was exactly what the title suggests RELATIVELY STRANGE! I dived into a whole new world while reading this story and would highly recommend it to you all, especially if you enjoy a great mystery, fantasy and suspense story! I WAS HOOKED! This story is well written, easy to read, gripping, addictive and will make you keep reading to the end. I cannot wait to dive into the follow on (Even stranger, review to follow later). It was one of those books I didn't want to finish but had to finish at the same time! If you want to treat yourself to one book, this should be it or put it on your wishlist! I'm not giving any spoilers or much away about this story as I want YOU (the readers) to find out about it for yourself, you will not be disappointed I wasn't. Finally, I would like to thank Marilyn for letting me review her story in exchange for the book... I cannot wait to get started with the second story.
Enjoy, I did!
In a world of uncertainties though, one thing is beyond doubt... This hero stuff just isn't her. Normal, or as near as damn it, is what she is after and if that means smothering her instincts, building her shielding and adjusting her expectations well, so be it. At least she will know, should she slip off the wagon occasionally it will be through her own choice, not chance and to suit herself.
I awarded Relatively Strange five stars as I really enjoyed reading it and it was exactly what the title suggests RELATIVELY STRANGE! I dived into a whole new world while reading this story and would highly recommend it to you all, especially if you enjoy a great mystery, fantasy and suspense story! I WAS HOOKED! This story is well written, easy to read, gripping, addictive and will make you keep reading to the end. I cannot wait to dive into the follow on (Even stranger, review to follow later). It was one of those books I didn't want to finish but had to finish at the same time! If you want to treat yourself to one book, this should be it or put it on your wishlist! I'm not giving any spoilers or much away about this story as I want YOU (the readers) to find out about it for yourself, you will not be disappointed I wasn't. Finally, I would like to thank Marilyn for letting me review her story in exchange for the book... I cannot wait to get started with the second story.
Enjoy, I did!
May 3, 2014
Relatively Strange is the fascinating tale of Stella, who uses the term "Strange" to categorize her extraordinary abilities. Stella, who lives in 1960's England, is telekinetic, pyrokinetic, can levitate, read minds and do quite a few other impossible things. Much of this story is about how Stella navigates a normal life while being something other than normal herself. There are encounters with others like herself, as well as a nefarious group of "medical" people who have no morals or ethics whatsoever.
I found the historical background of Stella's family to be interesting. A post-WWII, post-Holocaust Jewish family trying very hard to continue to be perceived as normal despite their daughter's differences. This was a subtle reminder that not too far in the past, any "otherness" was an offense, punishable by death. And yet, they accept her, for the most part, as different, but not wrong or bad.
It was, in fact, the great compassion of many of the wildly fascinating characters in this book that kept my attention. It was a great deal of fun to read. I would recommend it to all readers.
ARC provided by NetGalley
I found the historical background of Stella's family to be interesting. A post-WWII, post-Holocaust Jewish family trying very hard to continue to be perceived as normal despite their daughter's differences. This was a subtle reminder that not too far in the past, any "otherness" was an offense, punishable by death. And yet, they accept her, for the most part, as different, but not wrong or bad.
It was, in fact, the great compassion of many of the wildly fascinating characters in this book that kept my attention. It was a great deal of fun to read. I would recommend it to all readers.
ARC provided by NetGalley
May 31, 2016
I have to admit that when I first saw the blurb for this book, I was half expecting a fairly light read about characters with paranormal abilities, the usual sort of 13+ teen angst with a bit of romance thrown in.
How wrong could I be? This is an extremely well written, richly drawn novel which can be read on all sorts of different levels.
It's an unusual style of writing but one which I enjoyed very much. There is a slow build up of the plot, allowing the reader to simply enjoy the beautiful prose, but when the action really kicks in it subjects you to a real roller coaster of emotions.
This is not the sort of book that you can just pick up for a few minutes, it takes concentration but it is well worth the effort. With a wicked sense of humour and a real insight into the the way society can deal with anyone who is different, the author has created a captivating page turner and I look forward to the second instalment.
Thank you to The Book Club and Marilyn for letting me have arc's for this and the second book.
How wrong could I be? This is an extremely well written, richly drawn novel which can be read on all sorts of different levels.
It's an unusual style of writing but one which I enjoyed very much. There is a slow build up of the plot, allowing the reader to simply enjoy the beautiful prose, but when the action really kicks in it subjects you to a real roller coaster of emotions.
This is not the sort of book that you can just pick up for a few minutes, it takes concentration but it is well worth the effort. With a wicked sense of humour and a real insight into the the way society can deal with anyone who is different, the author has created a captivating page turner and I look forward to the second instalment.
Thank you to The Book Club and Marilyn for letting me have arc's for this and the second book.
May 27, 2016
When I was a young girl, I used to dream about having powers like Stella's, and would imagine myself being able to read minds, move objects without touching them, and being able to fly up, bionic woman stylee, onto the roofs of tall buildings. However; I suspect I would have found, just as Stella does, that having these powers is not at all what it's cracked up to be. I loved Stella. Her sense of humour is very similar to my own, and I laughed out loud at some of her antics. But then the story deepened and took on a more serious note, as Stella was called upon to use her powers in a horrifying and complex situation involving medical experimentation. As well as Stella, there are some other fabulous characters in this book, including the quirky, exotic Glory, and Ed, who I absolutely loved.
Thank you so much to Helen Boyce at TBConFB for allowing me the privilege of this ARC.
Thank you so much to Helen Boyce at TBConFB for allowing me the privilege of this ARC.
May 31, 2016
I received an ARC of this book from TBC in an exchange for an honest review, many thanks to TBC and the author.
If I could give 4.5 stars then I would! What I loved about this book is that it had the essence of a young adult book, magic, paranormal, even superhero-esque. However the difference is that the author gripped these concepts and dragged them firmly into an adult world, with a dark feel and complex characters. I was addicted to finding more and more out about Stella's abilities and really enjoyed reading about the different stages in her life.
In my opinion, this could have easily been made into two books or made longer, and I definitely would not have got bored with more detail at each event, or delving deeper into the other characters as they were equally as intriguing. I'm just glad there's a second book to follow! A completely original and darkly captivating read.
If I could give 4.5 stars then I would! What I loved about this book is that it had the essence of a young adult book, magic, paranormal, even superhero-esque. However the difference is that the author gripped these concepts and dragged them firmly into an adult world, with a dark feel and complex characters. I was addicted to finding more and more out about Stella's abilities and really enjoyed reading about the different stages in her life.
In my opinion, this could have easily been made into two books or made longer, and I definitely would not have got bored with more detail at each event, or delving deeper into the other characters as they were equally as intriguing. I'm just glad there's a second book to follow! A completely original and darkly captivating read.
June 1, 2016
Thanks to TBC for my copy of this book in exchange for my review.
I was initially drawn to this book due to its cover alone - i like an air of mystery. I soon found out this is not my usual genre and I am not sure what category it actually fits into - it is relatively a bit strange! ha ha - but in a good way!
This tells the story of Stella - a girl who can do things that are not normal - she sees things, is able to move things, can fly. She soon realises however this is not all it is cracked up to be. This is definately not just a book about magic - it is way more than that. It is about growing up - but growing up being VERY different to everyone else. This book has some lovely humourous moments as well as the story becomming more serious as you move through the book. Take yourself out of your comfort zone and give this book a try!
I was initially drawn to this book due to its cover alone - i like an air of mystery. I soon found out this is not my usual genre and I am not sure what category it actually fits into - it is relatively a bit strange! ha ha - but in a good way!
This tells the story of Stella - a girl who can do things that are not normal - she sees things, is able to move things, can fly. She soon realises however this is not all it is cracked up to be. This is definately not just a book about magic - it is way more than that. It is about growing up - but growing up being VERY different to everyone else. This book has some lovely humourous moments as well as the story becomming more serious as you move through the book. Take yourself out of your comfort zone and give this book a try!
June 2, 2016
I'm not sure what I expected from Relatively Strange but I can tell you what it's not - it's not a piece of fluff book about a silly teenager with 'magic' powers (not that there's anything wrong with that). It deals with Stella being 'strange', how she deals with it and how her family deals with it and what she does when other people intrude into her life.
Marilyn Messik has created book full of believable characters who react in a realistic way and puts them into unreal situations. I feel a great deal of empathy for Stella and there were two instances in the story that moved me to tears as I felt so involved in the story.
I'm really looking forward to reading the next book in the series Even Stranger.
I was lucky enough to receive a free copy of this book from TBC on Facebook in exchange for my honest review and I'm glad I did.
Marilyn Messik has created book full of believable characters who react in a realistic way and puts them into unreal situations. I feel a great deal of empathy for Stella and there were two instances in the story that moved me to tears as I felt so involved in the story.
I'm really looking forward to reading the next book in the series Even Stranger.
I was lucky enough to receive a free copy of this book from TBC on Facebook in exchange for my honest review and I'm glad I did.
November 4, 2019
A really great read; a well-plotted novel with some great characters, especially the North London Jewish family Stella grew up in. The psi abilities she developed as a child offer the possibility of a scientific explanation but Marilyn Messik doesn't take a science fiction approach. Instead she explores Stella's strange talents in terms of the difficulty of behaving normally and also looks at the dark side of medical research.
Relatively Strange is very well written with some sentences worth rereading simply to enjoy the beautiful use of language again. It's not a difficult read, not a literary novel, and has many laugh-aloud moments. I wanted the story to continue but was surprised when it did so - moving along to begin another episode. Then I found out there are already a further 2 novels continuing Stella's strange story. Brilliant!
Relatively Strange is very well written with some sentences worth rereading simply to enjoy the beautiful use of language again. It's not a difficult read, not a literary novel, and has many laugh-aloud moments. I wanted the story to continue but was surprised when it did so - moving along to begin another episode. Then I found out there are already a further 2 novels continuing Stella's strange story. Brilliant!
May 20, 2016
Thank you to The Book Club and Marilyn Messik for the copy.
"It was clear I was different, but I was brought up to believe it was only that. Not better, not worse, just not exactly the same" this is how Stella describes herself - as being strange. This story was not about finding a murder or solving a puzzle. This was the story of Stella as told by her and how her abilities affected her and those around her. Marilyn has a unique way of telling Stella's story. I loved the writing style and when I finished I wanted more. I don't know how to classify this story but if you are looking for something Strange then this is it I am sure you will love Stella.
"It was clear I was different, but I was brought up to believe it was only that. Not better, not worse, just not exactly the same" this is how Stella describes herself - as being strange. This story was not about finding a murder or solving a puzzle. This was the story of Stella as told by her and how her abilities affected her and those around her. Marilyn has a unique way of telling Stella's story. I loved the writing style and when I finished I wanted more. I don't know how to classify this story but if you are looking for something Strange then this is it I am sure you will love Stella.
July 28, 2015
What a brilliant unique book. I couldn't put it down and loved all the references to familiar places near where I live. It's a well-written and well-plotted novel and is very dark yet also humorous. Stella has certain 'unusual' abilities that are largely ignored/tolerated by her parents. But when these gifts (e.g. flying, moving objects with her mind) are suspected by others, her life becomes more complicated. Relatively Strange is more than just a book about magic, as it follows Stella's journey from child to adolescent in a very bizarre world.
May 31, 2016
This book took me a while to get into, but once I was in, l was hooked. I am a child of the seventies and the description of the P.E. lesson took me straight back to my Primary school days. I felt a connection with Stella, the main character, and I wanted her to find her way. Once I was fully immersed in this tale I became of the mindset, 'just one more chapter', which led to less sleep. I, for one, cannot wait to start the next in the series. Thoroughly enjoyed this tale and highly recommend it.
May 21, 2016
not my usual genre so was out of my comfort zone reading this and so glad i have. it didnt grasp me in the first few pages ( not understanding jewish culture doesnt help ) but i perservered and the story blew me away. just the perfect amount of twists and turns to keep you guessing. loved how the author described the scenes, i actually felt like i was looking into a room or down a corrider. the characters are indepth and i love the humour throughout the book. carnt wait to start the next one
May 15, 2016
Thank you to The Book Club for the free copy in exchange for an honest review.
Well this book is certainly strange! It is very different to the books that I usually read but the plot is not the highlight here, the prose is. It really is beautifully written.
I look forward to the sequel! :)
Well this book is certainly strange! It is very different to the books that I usually read but the plot is not the highlight here, the prose is. It really is beautifully written.
I look forward to the sequel! :)
May 23, 2016
Not my normal read, and was slightly out my comfort zone but pleased i read this book! I'm not familiar with Jewish culture and history but I really enjoyed this read. thank you to THE book club and also Marilyn Messik for the chance
November 7, 2019
Relatively Strange is perhaps the strangest book I have ever read; Strange by name and Strange by nature indeed. Stella is such an amazing character and the way that this book is written from Stella's birth makes you feel like you've known her your whole life.
Stella is a child of the 1950's and I was shocked to discover that her school days weren't very different from mine in the 1970's. For pity's sake, for how many years did children suffer the boiled cabbage lunches and frog spawn tapioca and jam pudding I felt very nostalgic reading about PE lessons in the school hall with the bars along the walls and the pointless throwing of the coloured bean bags. Of course, I hated PE and would have much rather been reading a book than doing roly polies on the mat but it did bring back some long forgotten, although not so fond, memories.
I loved Stella's Grandma and her Grandma's sisters. I don't think it happens so much these days but many of my Dad's aunts used to mouth their words so that young ears couldn't hear. The only problem was that nobody else could understand what they were saying either unless they were proficient in exaggerated lip reading. The whole family dynamic and Stella's place in the family was very interesting to read and I loved how a lot of her family were blind to her abilities. She couldn't possibly have flown up that tree so she must have climbed it!
When Stella's abilities become known, everything gets more sinister with the evil Doctor Dreck experimenting on gifted children. Someone has to stop him before it's too late and Stella joins forces with a motley crew of gifted people who have a plan to rescue Dreck's latest patient. It felt a bit like X-Men as Stella is trained for her mission and her fearlessness and bravery is quite astounding.
I bet a lot of people have wished that they could read someone's mind, when you wonder what someone is thinking or how they feel about you. Well Stella has that gift and it's not all its cracked up to be, that's for sure. It's actually quite sobering to realise that you really don't want to hear someone else's thoughts. It's hardly surprising really if you consider how often you have negative thoughts about yourself, but it's always more hurtful hearing it from someone else. Although there's nothing wrong with being different, it's perhaps good to be normal.
Written with such amazing humour and warmth, Relatively Strange is a very unusual, nostalgic and thought-provoking book. I am delighted to see that Stella's story continues in Even Stranger and I look forward to picking up with her where we left off.
I chose to read an ARC and this is my honest and unbiased opinion.
Stella is a child of the 1950's and I was shocked to discover that her school days weren't very different from mine in the 1970's. For pity's sake, for how many years did children suffer the boiled cabbage lunches and frog spawn tapioca and jam pudding I felt very nostalgic reading about PE lessons in the school hall with the bars along the walls and the pointless throwing of the coloured bean bags. Of course, I hated PE and would have much rather been reading a book than doing roly polies on the mat but it did bring back some long forgotten, although not so fond, memories.
I loved Stella's Grandma and her Grandma's sisters. I don't think it happens so much these days but many of my Dad's aunts used to mouth their words so that young ears couldn't hear. The only problem was that nobody else could understand what they were saying either unless they were proficient in exaggerated lip reading. The whole family dynamic and Stella's place in the family was very interesting to read and I loved how a lot of her family were blind to her abilities. She couldn't possibly have flown up that tree so she must have climbed it!
When Stella's abilities become known, everything gets more sinister with the evil Doctor Dreck experimenting on gifted children. Someone has to stop him before it's too late and Stella joins forces with a motley crew of gifted people who have a plan to rescue Dreck's latest patient. It felt a bit like X-Men as Stella is trained for her mission and her fearlessness and bravery is quite astounding.
I bet a lot of people have wished that they could read someone's mind, when you wonder what someone is thinking or how they feel about you. Well Stella has that gift and it's not all its cracked up to be, that's for sure. It's actually quite sobering to realise that you really don't want to hear someone else's thoughts. It's hardly surprising really if you consider how often you have negative thoughts about yourself, but it's always more hurtful hearing it from someone else. Although there's nothing wrong with being different, it's perhaps good to be normal.
Written with such amazing humour and warmth, Relatively Strange is a very unusual, nostalgic and thought-provoking book. I am delighted to see that Stella's story continues in Even Stranger and I look forward to picking up with her where we left off.
I chose to read an ARC and this is my honest and unbiased opinion.
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