Strangers in Time by David Baldacci

Mr Baldacci is well known for writing stories and characters in sets of four, five or even six instalments if there is sufficient material to carry forward. Whilst this reader usually embraces such methodology, occasionally it is highly refreshing to pick up a new work with the forewarned knowledge that is a sole novel. In theory, knowing it will not have a sequel, assumes the author will have to work hard to create his meaningful characters, create a strong plot and sub-plots, throw in a good mystery (and two more won’t hurt) then wrap it all up tidily and satisfactorily.

Strangers in Time may just have achieved those goals. Set in WWII London during the German bombings, there are three main characters whose lives will come together at a crucial point. 13 year old Charlie from the East End, 16 year old Molly from Chelsea and the mysterious widower Ignatius Oliver who lives above his eclectic bookshop in Covent Garden, all have lost people during the War and all are searching for answers. To make matters worse, Charlie is running from the police, Molly is trying to aid him and Iggy is hiding a mysterious current and previous secret.

Mr Baldacci’s stories have often been dismissed as ‘airport fiction’ but truth be told, it is more like good holiday fiction. Easy to read, engrossing thanks to good characters, plausible plots and sub-plots and, when set against well researched world history, a pleasure to read.

Reviewed by Belinda Coombs
Murder and Crime Reading Group