The Stranger Diaries is about Clare Cassidy, who works for the English department at Talgarth High- the historic home of R.M. Holland, author of The Stranger. Clare can scarcely believe it when her close friend and colleague, Ella, is murdered. Perhaps the most salient clue is an eerie literary portent found on her body which reads, “Hell is empty.”
As shockwaves ripple throughout the school, Clare becomes increasingly alarmed when she discovers someone has been leaving unsettling messages in her diary. Could it be the murderer? If so, what do they want with Clare? Detective Harbinder Kaur investigates!
The Stranger Diaries is a topical and accessible murder mystery. It didn’t make a particularly strong impression on me- for better or for worse- but it did manage to keep me guessing throughout. I’d say the book is more plot-centric overall and it has the advantage of being compulsively readable. The author alternates between multiple points of view; DS Kaur was easily the most likable and entertaining character of the bunch with her trademark sardonic wit.
While not particularly atmospheric, The Stranger Diaries does have a brisk pace about it and I appreciated the gothic elements. I suppose I wish Griffiths just leaned into them a little more. The book does not dwell on the darker elements, making The Stranger Diaries a solid choice for readers who prefer their mysteries more on the cozy side rather than stabby and psychological.
My Rating: 3.5/5 Stars
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