Something Strange and Deadly by Susan Dennard

How did I get the book?
I bought it.

Genre: Steampunk / Horror

First Impression: Beautiful.

Additional: And the best reply to a Zombie threat goes to Eleanor: “And if I ever get my way, I’ll personally feed you to my mother.”

Synopsis: The year is 1876, and there’s something strange and deadly loose in Philadelphia…
Eleanor Fitt has a lot to worry about. Her brother has gone missing, her family has fallen on hard times, and her mother is determined to marry her off to any rich young man who walks by. But this is nothing compared to what she’s just read in the newspaper— The Dead are rising in Philadelphia.
And then, in a frightening attack, a zombie delivers a letter to Eleanor…from her brother.
Whoever is controlling the Dead army has taken her brother as well. If Eleanor is going to find him, she’ll have to venture into the lab of the notorious Spirit-Hunters, who protect the city from supernatural forces. But as Eleanor spends more time with the Spirit-Hunters, including their maddeningly stubborn yet handsome inventor, Daniel, the situation becomes dire. And now, not only is her reputation on the line, but her very life may hang in the balance.

200words (or less) review: So I expected to like Something Strange and Deadly I wasn’t expecting to LOVE it. Like seriously bouncing around the room with excitement LOVE IT!

The majority to of the credit goes to Eleanor Fitt who I adore. She’s strong, intelligent and has the best comebacks for any situation. Add to that the beautifully descriptive narration, a scheming mother reminiscent of Pride & Prejudice, the Spirit-Hunters (incl Daniel who is one of very few love interests I’ve ever gotten flustered about) and Zombies. Where can you go wrong?

Probably in a lot of places but Susan Dennard never does. Something Strange and Deadly is exciting, funny and inventive. From the opening page you are in the middle of the action, you have a mystery to solve, someone to rescue and Miss Fitt as your guide.

There was no way I was going to put this book down until I turned the last page.

Recommend it?

Sunshine Star

If you would like a personalised signed copy of Something Strange and Deadly you can order it here.  Although it looks like that’s only open to the US.