Strange Attractors by Ana K. Wrenn is a superbly written novel. It was not at all what I expected to read when I picked this story, but I’m so glad I got the chance to read it.
The book is about Dr. Sonja J. Storey, a professor at Western Highlands State University (WHSU). She has worked there for a number of years, and has risen, or more precisely clawed her way to nearly the top of her department. Her goal has almost been reached, but then the threatening notes, emails, and shadowy figures stalking her begin. Someone means Sonja harm, and who is this new professor, Dr. Crystal Byrd? Does she have something to do with the threats, or is it someone from Sonja’s past?
As I mentioned above, this is truly an amazing story. It is definitely a character-driven novel, which is my favorite read, but I must admit, I did not like Sonja to begin with. She is an ice queen, but she actually goes beyond that, and is really unlikeable, at least at the beginning. What kept me reading were the glimpses I got of the real person behind the mask she showed the world. No, not a mask but a sturdily constructed wall around her. This wall took years to build and will not be easily breached. It takes a lot of love, patience, and empathy to even attempt it. That’s where Crystal comes in. The author created a great pairing with these two characters. Crystal is just the right person to stand up to Sonja and hopefully melt her heart. The threats to Sonja add mystery to an already riveting tale and the romance helps to soften some of the darkness in this story.
This is not a lighthearted novel, but it is one I’m very glad I had the chance to read. You really should read this book. I highly recommend it.
I received an ARC from Ylva Publishing for an honest review.
Rainbow Reflections 