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Wide Open #3
Strange Country
The third novel in the sequence that includes Wide Open and Deep Down, Strange Country will be published on May 27, 2014.
In Strange Country, Hallie is settling into life in Taylor County, South Dakota. She’s survived a trip to the underworld and she has a ranch to run, and she’s waiting, not very patiently, for the other shoe to drop. Death will return. He always does. And Hallie knows that this time could be the final meeting she dreads.
Meanwhile, deputy Boyd Davies gets a late night call to investigate a prowler. An hour later, a woman is dead, shot and killed by a bullet from a high-powered rifle. It soon becomes clear that the killing is far from over, that ever small town has its secrets, and that Taylor County’s secrets are stranger than most.
Coming home isn’t easy. When you combine your home coming with harbingers, ghosts, strange magic and Death, it can be downright deadly
In Strange Country, Hallie is settling into life in Taylor County, South Dakota. She’s survived a trip to the underworld and she has a ranch to run, and she’s waiting, not very patiently, for the other shoe to drop. Death will return. He always does. And Hallie knows that this time could be the final meeting she dreads.
Meanwhile, deputy Boyd Davies gets a late night call to investigate a prowler. An hour later, a woman is dead, shot and killed by a bullet from a high-powered rifle. It soon becomes clear that the killing is far from over, that ever small town has its secrets, and that Taylor County’s secrets are stranger than most.
Coming home isn’t easy. When you combine your home coming with harbingers, ghosts, strange magic and Death, it can be downright deadly
336 pages, Hardcover
First published May 27, 2014
6 people are currently reading
162 people want to read
About the author
Deborah Coates
22 books71 followersI grew up on a farm in western New York. I currently live in central Iowa. I work in IT by day and train dogs and write books by night. I live with a Rottweiler, a German Pinscher and a lot of books.
I am a fan of flyover country, wide open spaces, weather, books, working dogs, gutsy heroines and steadfast heroes.
My first novel, Wide Open, was published by Tor on March 13, 2012. My second novel Deep Down is out March 5, 2013.
I am a fan of flyover country, wide open spaces, weather, books, working dogs, gutsy heroines and steadfast heroes.
My first novel, Wide Open, was published by Tor on March 13, 2012. My second novel Deep Down is out March 5, 2013.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
June 12, 2014
OH NO!! The Burrito of Sadness has engulfed 2014! Strange Country is the end of another awesome series...will the sadness ever end??
I asked Deborah Coates whether Strange Country is the end of Hallie's and Boyd's adventures, and she graciously replied, "Yes." So, I am currently rolled up burrito-style in my blankie with my teddie bear, typing this review and quietly mourning.
Strange Country should not be read as a stand alone. Although some explanations are offered, the relationship between Hallie and Boyd, and the interactions with Ole (hysterical) and Laddie are better appreciated if Wide Open and Deep Down are read first. As a veterinarian, I was especially touched by the scenes with the horses and dogs. I have seen these books categorized as mysteries, but that label does not do justice to the supernatural elements of this trilogy. Contemporary, or urban, fantasy is much more appropriate, although there is nothing urban about Prairie City.
Story lines are concluded, questions are answered, and a satisfactory ending is achieved. Now to read the three books in a row...
I asked Deborah Coates whether Strange Country is the end of Hallie's and Boyd's adventures, and she graciously replied, "Yes." So, I am currently rolled up burrito-style in my blankie with my teddie bear, typing this review and quietly mourning.
Strange Country should not be read as a stand alone. Although some explanations are offered, the relationship between Hallie and Boyd, and the interactions with Ole (hysterical) and Laddie are better appreciated if Wide Open and Deep Down are read first. As a veterinarian, I was especially touched by the scenes with the horses and dogs. I have seen these books categorized as mysteries, but that label does not do justice to the supernatural elements of this trilogy. Contemporary, or urban, fantasy is much more appropriate, although there is nothing urban about Prairie City.
Story lines are concluded, questions are answered, and a satisfactory ending is achieved. Now to read the three books in a row...
July 11, 2014
Strange Country is a supernatural murder mystery with horror undertones. As a veteran of the war in Afghanistan, Hallie Michaels brings some interesting skills to bear in her odd situation in West Prarie City. Death has asked her to replace him, she has died and yet come back alive, and she has proven herself capable of dealing with unearthly dangers. But now someone with a plain old gun is causing murder and mayhem. I love how Hallie taps into her military skills to deal with danger as well as with her fear. However, the story is not bogged down by her military past. It is as if that were a separate life altogether, and the memory of those survival skills drive her. That is really where Coates excels: She evokes the complexities of emotions, uncertainties, and even the denials that we tell ourselves in our inner monologue. And Coates does this all through her mastery of language. Strange Country is not only suspenseful and eerie, but beautiful as well...a sheer pleasure.
July 29, 2014
Strange Country is the final book in Deborah Coates rural fantasy trilogy. In the final installment all the threads all pulled together leaving readers with a satisfying conclusion, although I wouldn't be opposed to further books featuring Hallie and Boyd. Ultimately, this book is hauntingly written, showcasing a barren landscape in an exceptionally vivid way. Strange Country is not action-packed, but does it ever leave an impression.
The third book follows the events of Deep Down. Hallie has saved Boyd from the under; however, it came at the expense of his life. Boyd had to die and come back, and it's put a strain on their relationship. Boyd doesn't remember dying and he'd rather not. Adding further complication is Hallie's offer from Death. Death, having spared Hallie in Afghanistan, feels that Hallie owes a debt, and he'd like Hallie to take his place in the under. Hallie's afraid of having to make that decision since she's finally come to terms with the fact that she wants to stay, she wants to live and set down roots. At the same time, Hallie recognizes that if it comes down to staying and saving the world, she's going to help people because that's just what she does. This is the other element that's causing some strain in her and Boyd's relationship. However, it's not this conflict that propels Strange Country, but rather the death of several people who messed with magic when they should have left it alone.What I really liked about Strange Country was the author's decision to include Boyd Davies point of view in the narrative. In the previous two books, the story has been told exclusively from Hallie Michaels perspective. While I'm not sure this abrupt change-up always works in other series, it made sense for Strange Country as it served to bring two divergent plot lines neatly together.
What I liked about having Boyd's perspective in Strange Country was that readers are treated to how he sees Hallie and, for me, this helped me understand her as a character. With Coates writing style I feel almost detached from the characters and their emotions, and I think that works really well with her novels, but I liked that Boyd's point of view helped to bridge that gap. For example, Boyd reflects on his relationship with Hallie and what that means:
I loved those moments where both Boyd and Hallie reflected on their relationship. Coates rambling style brought something new to their relationship, gave it a more realistic feeling. And through Boyd I felt that I came to have a better understanding of Hallie and her actions and motivations. Boyd obviously sees something in Hallie, he sees the way she always needs to act and think about the consequences later. Boyd and Hallie never really express all that much emotion about one another, but what is conveyed seems so big despite the lack of words. Emotions in this book are always restrained, but that doesn't mean that they are not there or don't figure into Hallie and Boyd's decisions. They relationship is a subtle one and I liked how it unfolded.
The way that the author includes magic in Strange Country is also worth noting. Again, this "magic" packs such a punch not because it's overt, but rather it's the subtle and matter-of-fact way it's included in this novel that made it all the more powerful. Not only do Hallie and Boyd have to content with magical stones but also with Death's offer for Hallie - for her to take his place in the under. When I write that out it sounds so strange, but when you read this book, these elements seem like such a natural and effortless inclusion in the book. Coates' descriptions of the fantastic elements of her story are never showy, they just are. The tone the author sets permeates the entire novel. Coates' characters and world flow together perfectly.
Strange Country signals the end of the author's trilogy, and I have to say I'm disappointed to be finished with Hallie and Boyd. I loved that this trilogy was so different from the usual stuff that I read. Generally, I gravitate to the happy and light books and this series was just not the case, but it worked for me. I do see a potential for the author to continue the series; however, with the end of Strange Country further books are certainly not needed. I will definitely be recommending this series to others, and I even think there is a strong argument that this will also appeal to readers outside the fantasy genre. Strange Country was much more than a fantasy novel; it was a well crafted story that includes the fantastic so subtly that I think you can safely recommend this to a much wider audience. Anyone who enjoys books set in a small town with a mystery element will find this book readable.
Similar reads on my blog.
The third book follows the events of Deep Down. Hallie has saved Boyd from the under; however, it came at the expense of his life. Boyd had to die and come back, and it's put a strain on their relationship. Boyd doesn't remember dying and he'd rather not. Adding further complication is Hallie's offer from Death. Death, having spared Hallie in Afghanistan, feels that Hallie owes a debt, and he'd like Hallie to take his place in the under. Hallie's afraid of having to make that decision since she's finally come to terms with the fact that she wants to stay, she wants to live and set down roots. At the same time, Hallie recognizes that if it comes down to staying and saving the world, she's going to help people because that's just what she does. This is the other element that's causing some strain in her and Boyd's relationship. However, it's not this conflict that propels Strange Country, but rather the death of several people who messed with magic when they should have left it alone.What I really liked about Strange Country was the author's decision to include Boyd Davies point of view in the narrative. In the previous two books, the story has been told exclusively from Hallie Michaels perspective. While I'm not sure this abrupt change-up always works in other series, it made sense for Strange Country as it served to bring two divergent plot lines neatly together.
What I liked about having Boyd's perspective in Strange Country was that readers are treated to how he sees Hallie and, for me, this helped me understand her as a character. With Coates writing style I feel almost detached from the characters and their emotions, and I think that works really well with her novels, but I liked that Boyd's point of view helped to bridge that gap. For example, Boyd reflects on his relationship with Hallie and what that means:
When he first met Hallie - which hadn't been that long ago, but seemed like a lifetime, like he'd always known her or been waiting to meet her - it had been clear that she didn't need anyone. It had also been clear that she could use help, whether she knew it or not, and he'd done his best to deliver. She'd appreciated it, but she didn't look for it. Over the last few months, they'd achieved an understanding about whom to talk to and whom to look for in a crowd, and whom to call when something happened. In a way, last night felt like they were back where they'd begun. He was pretty sure that if a challenge came along, say, this afternoon, Hallie would do her damnedest to keep him away from it. Not because she didn't trust him or believe that he could help. Not even - he didn't think - because she wanted to protect him, though she probably did; he knew he wanted to protect her.
She wouldn't keep it from him because she didn't trust him. She'd do it because she didn't trust herself. (p. 140)
I loved those moments where both Boyd and Hallie reflected on their relationship. Coates rambling style brought something new to their relationship, gave it a more realistic feeling. And through Boyd I felt that I came to have a better understanding of Hallie and her actions and motivations. Boyd obviously sees something in Hallie, he sees the way she always needs to act and think about the consequences later. Boyd and Hallie never really express all that much emotion about one another, but what is conveyed seems so big despite the lack of words. Emotions in this book are always restrained, but that doesn't mean that they are not there or don't figure into Hallie and Boyd's decisions. They relationship is a subtle one and I liked how it unfolded.
The way that the author includes magic in Strange Country is also worth noting. Again, this "magic" packs such a punch not because it's overt, but rather it's the subtle and matter-of-fact way it's included in this novel that made it all the more powerful. Not only do Hallie and Boyd have to content with magical stones but also with Death's offer for Hallie - for her to take his place in the under. When I write that out it sounds so strange, but when you read this book, these elements seem like such a natural and effortless inclusion in the book. Coates' descriptions of the fantastic elements of her story are never showy, they just are. The tone the author sets permeates the entire novel. Coates' characters and world flow together perfectly.
Strange Country signals the end of the author's trilogy, and I have to say I'm disappointed to be finished with Hallie and Boyd. I loved that this trilogy was so different from the usual stuff that I read. Generally, I gravitate to the happy and light books and this series was just not the case, but it worked for me. I do see a potential for the author to continue the series; however, with the end of Strange Country further books are certainly not needed. I will definitely be recommending this series to others, and I even think there is a strong argument that this will also appeal to readers outside the fantasy genre. Strange Country was much more than a fantasy novel; it was a well crafted story that includes the fantastic so subtly that I think you can safely recommend this to a much wider audience. Anyone who enjoys books set in a small town with a mystery element will find this book readable.
Similar reads on my blog.
September 1, 2016
http://www.mybookishways.com/2014/06/...
It’s 3am when sheriff’s deputy Boyd Davies gets a call about a possible prowler. When he arrives at the woman’s house he makes sure that the house is clear of intruders, and they talk a bit. The woman knows that Boyd has certain talents, and asks for his help, albeit in a vague way. Even though Boyd has an odd feeling about the situation, he realizes that there’s really nothing for him to do, and starts to leave. Unease soon turns to shock, though. As Boyd and the woman stand on the front porch, Boyd can only watch in horror as a single shot from an assassin’s high powered rifle hits the woman in the head, killing her instantly.
If you’re caught up with this series, then you know what Hallie Michaels has been through, and she’s still a little on edge from a certain risky decision she made in order to save the man she loves, which happens to be Boyd Davies. As Boyd starts his own investigation into the shooting, Hallie is having problems of her own. Someone is leaving notes just outside the hex ring around her property, saying things like “It’s time to face your fear” and a set of map coordinates, and phone calls of the same nature. Hallie thinks this is odd, because if Hallie is anything, it’s someone that has no problem facing her fears. In fact, when there’s a problem, she runs headlong into it. Since actually dying while in the service in Irag, she’s been able to see ghosts, and she’s also been asked, by Death himself, for a “favor” of sorts. He’s going to want an answer soon, but Hallie doesn’t really think the notes and calls have anything to do with Death, so this is just another strange thing add to her growing list of worries.
As Boyd digs deeper into the murder investigation, he comes across stones that seem to be able to store magic, and when the body count begins to grow, he must find out what links the dead and of course, why someone would want them dead to begin with.
Hallie would like nothing more than to spend some quiet time with Boyd, and enjoy the ranch (complete with horses) that she recently inherited. It isn’t much, but she loves it like she loves the wide open skies of West Prairie City, South Dakota. However, the mysterious notes and a visit (and unusual request) from a blast from Hallie’s recent past will keep her plenty busy, as well as helping Boyd get to the bottom of the recent murders and of course, the magic stones.
When I start a Hallie Michaels book, I know that it won’t be long before I’m entranced by Hallie’s quiet strength and the wonderful world that Deborah Coates has created with this series. These books satisfy my love for mystery, and the liberal addition of ghosts, reapers, and the like, is like icing on a particularly tasty cupcake. Hallie’s rather charming “canine” companion, who she calls Maker, is ever present and provides help in its usual cryptic way (it’s a harbinger, and for some reason chooses to stick around, which Hallie finds that she’s more than ok with), and underscoring the decidedly creepy events is Hallie’s very real desire to settle down and make a life in WPC, hopefully with Boyd, and she’ll do just about anything to make that happen. I love this subtle series, rich with magical realism and the beauty of the Midwest, and if you haven’t discovered Hallie and her friends, I urge you to get a hold of all three books, and hunker down, because they’re addictive. I’m hoping that Deborah Coates has more plans for this series, because I’ll be the first in line for the next book.
It’s 3am when sheriff’s deputy Boyd Davies gets a call about a possible prowler. When he arrives at the woman’s house he makes sure that the house is clear of intruders, and they talk a bit. The woman knows that Boyd has certain talents, and asks for his help, albeit in a vague way. Even though Boyd has an odd feeling about the situation, he realizes that there’s really nothing for him to do, and starts to leave. Unease soon turns to shock, though. As Boyd and the woman stand on the front porch, Boyd can only watch in horror as a single shot from an assassin’s high powered rifle hits the woman in the head, killing her instantly.
If you’re caught up with this series, then you know what Hallie Michaels has been through, and she’s still a little on edge from a certain risky decision she made in order to save the man she loves, which happens to be Boyd Davies. As Boyd starts his own investigation into the shooting, Hallie is having problems of her own. Someone is leaving notes just outside the hex ring around her property, saying things like “It’s time to face your fear” and a set of map coordinates, and phone calls of the same nature. Hallie thinks this is odd, because if Hallie is anything, it’s someone that has no problem facing her fears. In fact, when there’s a problem, she runs headlong into it. Since actually dying while in the service in Irag, she’s been able to see ghosts, and she’s also been asked, by Death himself, for a “favor” of sorts. He’s going to want an answer soon, but Hallie doesn’t really think the notes and calls have anything to do with Death, so this is just another strange thing add to her growing list of worries.
As Boyd digs deeper into the murder investigation, he comes across stones that seem to be able to store magic, and when the body count begins to grow, he must find out what links the dead and of course, why someone would want them dead to begin with.
Hallie would like nothing more than to spend some quiet time with Boyd, and enjoy the ranch (complete with horses) that she recently inherited. It isn’t much, but she loves it like she loves the wide open skies of West Prairie City, South Dakota. However, the mysterious notes and a visit (and unusual request) from a blast from Hallie’s recent past will keep her plenty busy, as well as helping Boyd get to the bottom of the recent murders and of course, the magic stones.
When I start a Hallie Michaels book, I know that it won’t be long before I’m entranced by Hallie’s quiet strength and the wonderful world that Deborah Coates has created with this series. These books satisfy my love for mystery, and the liberal addition of ghosts, reapers, and the like, is like icing on a particularly tasty cupcake. Hallie’s rather charming “canine” companion, who she calls Maker, is ever present and provides help in its usual cryptic way (it’s a harbinger, and for some reason chooses to stick around, which Hallie finds that she’s more than ok with), and underscoring the decidedly creepy events is Hallie’s very real desire to settle down and make a life in WPC, hopefully with Boyd, and she’ll do just about anything to make that happen. I love this subtle series, rich with magical realism and the beauty of the Midwest, and if you haven’t discovered Hallie and her friends, I urge you to get a hold of all three books, and hunker down, because they’re addictive. I’m hoping that Deborah Coates has more plans for this series, because I’ll be the first in line for the next book.
June 4, 2014
I've read the other 2 books in the trilogy and I was so happy when I got this one for review. I've enjoyed the other books and I needed the conclusion that would wrap up everything. I did get that in this installment.
My favorite aspects of this trilogy are the paranormal aspects. The author is very descriptive which will enthrall some and for others it will slow the book down. When the paranormal aspects are in play, you will praise the author for bringing it so visually to you. For the more "mundane" aspects, it is up to your tastes really. I do tend to like more descriptive language as long as it doesn't bog too much down and although I felt it slowed things down considerably here, I still found myself flying through the pages.
This book is also less paranormal than the last book. The paranormal aspects seem to be inserted with the mystery surrounding the small community. While the solution was paranormal in nature, it also seemed to fit within a contemporary theme. In other words, it was paranormal and yet taking the paranormal out, it would fit in a contemporary murder mystery.
I give this book 4 stars. I feel it was a good ending to the trilogy. I even gave the first 2 to my mother (who likes mysteries) and she enjoyed these as well. I recommend it to those that like something different and for those that like paranormal mixed with their mystery.
My favorite aspects of this trilogy are the paranormal aspects. The author is very descriptive which will enthrall some and for others it will slow the book down. When the paranormal aspects are in play, you will praise the author for bringing it so visually to you. For the more "mundane" aspects, it is up to your tastes really. I do tend to like more descriptive language as long as it doesn't bog too much down and although I felt it slowed things down considerably here, I still found myself flying through the pages.
This book is also less paranormal than the last book. The paranormal aspects seem to be inserted with the mystery surrounding the small community. While the solution was paranormal in nature, it also seemed to fit within a contemporary theme. In other words, it was paranormal and yet taking the paranormal out, it would fit in a contemporary murder mystery.
I give this book 4 stars. I feel it was a good ending to the trilogy. I even gave the first 2 to my mother (who likes mysteries) and she enjoyed these as well. I recommend it to those that like something different and for those that like paranormal mixed with their mystery.
July 13, 2014
3.5/5
Mon avis en Français
My English review
I did not know anything about the series before reading this third and final volume. It is often easier to get into paranormal thrillers without looking at the order of the books than with fantasy novels. And yes, this is actually the case here! Even if we continue a story already begun earlier, I think it is not very complicated to easily get into the volume. But, even if it’s true that some events are recalled, as always I think it would be easier for the reader to try the first and second book before.
So we find our heroes Hallie and Boyd in the middle of a story that will completely mess up their lives. Indeed, while Boyd is patroling one night, he receives a call but while he doesn’t see anything suspicious at the young woman’s house, she finds herself shot. A race against the clock will begin for them as they try to understand what happened to stop the murderer before he starts again. But everyone seems to keep secrets, which does not help the investigation a bit in fact. If we also add ghosts, magic stones, a rather strange power, and Death, we have many things to do! Yes, you read right, even Death! Because it seems that he wants Hallie to take his place, even if she is not really of that opinion. Our two heroes have to team up to find out what is happening, trying to know if the supernatural world has an impact to the case or not. But in addition to this investigation, we also follow the stories of the secondary characters who will have a great impact throughout the chapters.
The author in this novel mixes many things and I admit that I was surprised by some aspects, including the late revelations as the identity of the culprit that I did not expect at all. The mixture of fantasy and thriller is very well done, even if it is true that I am still full of questions about these stones with extraordinary powers. Hallie and Boyd face many problems, although some join, others must be taken care separately. Their relationship seems rather odd but it is true and it was always interesting to see them together, trying to show what they feel without actually managing to do it. There is no romance in this book if that’s what you want, but a couple who is trying to support the other in a rather clumsy way and who is trying to move forward despite the obstacles.
The ideas found here are really interesting, but it’s true that some things are a little fuzzy for me. However, it is impossible for me to tell if it’s because I have not read the first volumes or if this is normal. In any case I had a good time with the story and I was curious to witness the resolution of the investigation and to uncover all the secrets!
Mon avis en Français
My English review
I did not know anything about the series before reading this third and final volume. It is often easier to get into paranormal thrillers without looking at the order of the books than with fantasy novels. And yes, this is actually the case here! Even if we continue a story already begun earlier, I think it is not very complicated to easily get into the volume. But, even if it’s true that some events are recalled, as always I think it would be easier for the reader to try the first and second book before.
So we find our heroes Hallie and Boyd in the middle of a story that will completely mess up their lives. Indeed, while Boyd is patroling one night, he receives a call but while he doesn’t see anything suspicious at the young woman’s house, she finds herself shot. A race against the clock will begin for them as they try to understand what happened to stop the murderer before he starts again. But everyone seems to keep secrets, which does not help the investigation a bit in fact. If we also add ghosts, magic stones, a rather strange power, and Death, we have many things to do! Yes, you read right, even Death! Because it seems that he wants Hallie to take his place, even if she is not really of that opinion. Our two heroes have to team up to find out what is happening, trying to know if the supernatural world has an impact to the case or not. But in addition to this investigation, we also follow the stories of the secondary characters who will have a great impact throughout the chapters.
The author in this novel mixes many things and I admit that I was surprised by some aspects, including the late revelations as the identity of the culprit that I did not expect at all. The mixture of fantasy and thriller is very well done, even if it is true that I am still full of questions about these stones with extraordinary powers. Hallie and Boyd face many problems, although some join, others must be taken care separately. Their relationship seems rather odd but it is true and it was always interesting to see them together, trying to show what they feel without actually managing to do it. There is no romance in this book if that’s what you want, but a couple who is trying to support the other in a rather clumsy way and who is trying to move forward despite the obstacles.
The ideas found here are really interesting, but it’s true that some things are a little fuzzy for me. However, it is impossible for me to tell if it’s because I have not read the first volumes or if this is normal. In any case I had a good time with the story and I was curious to witness the resolution of the investigation and to uncover all the secrets!
October 7, 2017
8/3/17: I read these for a quick read and got that. I got a little bored by the end of this one for some reason, but it was nice to finish and I'm ready to move on!
7/2/14: Maybe it's because it was the last one that I read, but I think I liked this one best of the three. I feel like I was actually able to connect with the characters this time! I don't know if that's because I was on both sides of the perspective or what, but this one worked more for me.
I totally thought it wrapped up poorly - again. WAY too easy and over way too quickly. We, the readers, didn't even really get to see what happened, but heard about it afterwards. I didn't like that at all. This happened elsewhere in the book as well - something happens and you kind of aren't in on it and then it's over. I understand that "what happens" might not be essential to the story, but if you're going to go into it, then we deserve a little bit of an explanation. Characters - even minor ones - can't just disappear. In my opinion.
Again, I have issues with these books but they are quick easy mostly enjoyable reads.
7/2/14: Maybe it's because it was the last one that I read, but I think I liked this one best of the three. I feel like I was actually able to connect with the characters this time! I don't know if that's because I was on both sides of the perspective or what, but this one worked more for me.
I totally thought it wrapped up poorly - again. WAY too easy and over way too quickly. We, the readers, didn't even really get to see what happened, but heard about it afterwards. I didn't like that at all. This happened elsewhere in the book as well - something happens and you kind of aren't in on it and then it's over. I understand that "what happens" might not be essential to the story, but if you're going to go into it, then we deserve a little bit of an explanation. Characters - even minor ones - can't just disappear. In my opinion.
Again, I have issues with these books but they are quick easy mostly enjoyable reads.
May 8, 2017
A satisfying ending for an entertaining trilogy. I liked that the setting was rural vs. urban and liked the characters.
January 17, 2016
I first discovered Deborah Coates with
Wide Open
, the first book in this series, and fell in love with her descriptions. Coates can create atmosphere like no one else I've ever read, and Hallie and Boyd are wonderful, stubborn, human characters in their own right. It might sound a little silly, but for fictional people I am weirdly proud of how far those two have come in the previous two books.
So - all of this is to say that I've been looking forward to Strange Country for about a year now, and had a lot of high expectations. And even so, at the start of this novel I was still totally blown out of the water: The first two chapters from Boyd's point of view are absolutely perfect. After so much time spent in Hallie's head, it's a pleasure to see all the small details of a scene from a different perspective; and here I just have to stop to quote this bit, because it's everything I love about these books and this character, captured in a single moment:
Unfortunately - and as much as I hate to say it... it feels like the rest of Strange Country is all downhill from the peak of these first two chapters. Goodness knows there were plenty of loose ends to tie up from the previous books, and at least the plot this time is slightly more coherent - but the problem is that it feels like it's about all the wrong things.
For instance: We're told, explicitly, several times, that the characters have changed after at the end of Deep Down . That's fine, and totally understandable! But where in previous books Hallie and Boyd would've talked about their concerns, and eventually struggled towards a solution together - and that's part of why they make a fabulous team! - Strange Country they... just kind of ignore it, and then action gets busy and the issue is fumbled and then basically dropped.
It almost feels like there's an extra half of the book missing, really, because this happens to a ton of different plotlines.
I loved the first two books in this series fiercely; they're flawed in plot but deep in heart. But with this final book, I was hoping for more. I wanted to see Hallie and Boyd tackle the mysteries of their world together - not alone on separate missions. I wanted to see Hallie growing new roots in her community, discovering fellow magic-sensitives and building her own "army" at home - not isolated and slowly losing the few friends she was already making. I wanted to see Boyd struggling to reconcile his feelings of duty vs. the need for discovering magic-related information that could help Hallie - but no luck there, either.
If it were just the first two chapters alone, I'd say four stars, easily. If we had a whole book from Boyd'd point of view, I'd be overjoyed! But ultimately, I feel there are just too many missed opportunities, and too many loose ends left unexplained, to merit anything more than a 3. Still - I'll be keeping an eye out for more of Coates' work in the future, and in the meantime, I can always go re-read the first two books again...
So - all of this is to say that I've been looking forward to Strange Country for about a year now, and had a lot of high expectations. And even so, at the start of this novel I was still totally blown out of the water: The first two chapters from Boyd's point of view are absolutely perfect. After so much time spent in Hallie's head, it's a pleasure to see all the small details of a scene from a different perspective; and here I just have to stop to quote this bit, because it's everything I love about these books and this character, captured in a single moment:
He drove out of West Prairie City and headed south. He’d swing down past the ranch, though he’d already been that way earlier. It pulled at him, that ranch, so that he always knew where it was in relation to where he was, like magnetic north or homing pigeons.
Three cars passed him on the long loop, enough traffic so at this hour—three in the morning in the middle of the week—he watched them close. A cold dry wind blew out of the northwest. A tumbleweed bounced onto the road, hit the side of the car with a hollow scratch, and was gone somewhere behind him. A half mile later, he slowed to turn back onto the county road, no lights out here other than the stars and his own headlights. There was something ahead, a shadow in the twilight at the edge of his high beams. He slowed. Coyote. Another one. He tapped the brakes. Light from the coyote’s eyes reflected straight back at him, sharp and otherworldly. It trotted toward him along the road. When it drew parallel to the car, it turned its head and seemed to look directly at him before it angled across the old pavement and disappeared back into the night and the prairie.
Boyd idled his car. A vast nothingness surrounded him. Darkness and grass, wind and cold. He put his foot back on the gas, put a hand up to check the set of his collar, smooth the flap of his shirt pocket, brush nonexistent dust from the yoke of the steering wheel—so automatic, he barely noticed that he did it.
He felt a familiar tug as he passed the end of the drive up to Hallie’s ranch, like something real, like a wire. He didn’t answer it. It was past three, he was on duty, and he wasn’t that guy. The one who signed in, picked up his car, then drove home to sleep a few hours when he was supposed to be on patrol. He would never be that guy. Though he’d met guys like that—one or two—in the five years he’d been a police officer, met them at out-of-town trainings where they bragged in the bar after class. He didn’t understand—understood the pull, but didn’t understand—couldn’t—the dereliction. Because it was a promise, not to the job, but to the people in the towns and on the ranches. A promise that he would be where he said he was and that he would be ready. People said he was a Boy Scout, all honor and duty and service.
And he was.
So, there wasn’t any question when he passed Hallie’s drive that he would drive past.
Unfortunately - and as much as I hate to say it... it feels like the rest of Strange Country is all downhill from the peak of these first two chapters. Goodness knows there were plenty of loose ends to tie up from the previous books, and at least the plot this time is slightly more coherent - but the problem is that it feels like it's about all the wrong things.
For instance: We're told, explicitly, several times, that the characters have changed after at the end of Deep Down . That's fine, and totally understandable! But where in previous books Hallie and Boyd would've talked about their concerns, and eventually struggled towards a solution together - and that's part of why they make a fabulous team! - Strange Country they... just kind of ignore it, and then action gets busy and the issue is fumbled and then basically dropped.
It almost feels like there's an extra half of the book missing, really, because this happens to a ton of different plotlines.
I loved the first two books in this series fiercely; they're flawed in plot but deep in heart. But with this final book, I was hoping for more. I wanted to see Hallie and Boyd tackle the mysteries of their world together - not alone on separate missions. I wanted to see Hallie growing new roots in her community, discovering fellow magic-sensitives and building her own "army" at home - not isolated and slowly losing the few friends she was already making. I wanted to see Boyd struggling to reconcile his feelings of duty vs. the need for discovering magic-related information that could help Hallie - but no luck there, either.
If it were just the first two chapters alone, I'd say four stars, easily. If we had a whole book from Boyd'd point of view, I'd be overjoyed! But ultimately, I feel there are just too many missed opportunities, and too many loose ends left unexplained, to merit anything more than a 3. Still - I'll be keeping an eye out for more of Coates' work in the future, and in the meantime, I can always go re-read the first two books again...
June 28, 2024
This is the third book in the series. Hallie is trying to settle back into life in her hometown after the epic events of the first two books. Her relationship with Boyd is still a bit uncertain and she has guilt over what has happened in the past- events that Boyd does not remember but could irretrievably damage their relationship. She knows that the time will come when Death comes knocking again and she is dreading it. Things begin to get strange again when Boyd is called to a home to check out a potential prowler and the woman who calls him is shot and killed by a sniper. In the investigation, they find an old dead body and a number of strange stones. These stones lead to a past where deadly magic was forged and led to the events of the prior books. Hallie and Boyd know things are coming to a potentially deadly conclusion and we see events progressing from both points of view. It was a satisfying end to the series.
February 12, 2020
Some books...and this is one, I get to the end and I'm satisfied the reader took me on a journey. The characters are believable in an unbelievable tale. The settings make sense, and the ending befits the book. So why not a five out of five?
Two reasons, one...its part of a trilogy; and while it does ok as a stand alone read, I think it would have been an easier read with the first two already read.
Secondly, and without giving anything away...two parts of the story that seem pivotal to me were left out. Not that it changed the overall story but disappointed that they were not included because it would have added to the book and showed off the writers skill a bit more.
Overall, it's a good read and I'd definitely buy another Coates book, which for me is always the best indication that a book was good.
Two reasons, one...its part of a trilogy; and while it does ok as a stand alone read, I think it would have been an easier read with the first two already read.
Secondly, and without giving anything away...two parts of the story that seem pivotal to me were left out. Not that it changed the overall story but disappointed that they were not included because it would have added to the book and showed off the writers skill a bit more.
Overall, it's a good read and I'd definitely buy another Coates book, which for me is always the best indication that a book was good.
December 6, 2021
Huston we have confirmation, over, that p did get in that v, over. We can all go home, over.
Overall, these second two books were just ok. They totally lacked the immediacy of the first one, and the underworld-building wasn’t that interesting to me. It was sorta overexplain-y. I missed the mysterious silent ghosts (the talking dog could have been worse I guess)
Overall, these second two books were just ok. They totally lacked the immediacy of the first one, and the underworld-building wasn’t that interesting to me. It was sorta overexplain-y. I missed the mysterious silent ghosts (the talking dog could have been worse I guess)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 22, 2018
I loved this book! The characters are well-developed and the storyline is interesting. Maker is a great character and I was happy to see him again in here. This is a nice conclusion to the series. Very much worth the read
October 31, 2017
It wasn't bad. I enjoyed the characters. The plot was entertaining enough. The protagonist feeling like the weight of the world is on her shoulders was maybe over done but it fit the story.
December 30, 2019
Extremely atmospheric, a haunted rural noir thriller. Slow, suspenseful build.
August 4, 2014
In the Taylor County series, Deborah Coates has blended a wide-open prairie landscape, eerie magic, and great characters to create a memorable rural fantasy. She has said that Strange Country is the final book in the series.
Hallie Michaels has moved into the Pabahar place and finds herself staying inside its protections more often than she cares to admit. She knows one day there will be another reckoning with Death, and she’s in no rush to have that conversation. But cryptic messages start showing up, telling her the time to face her fear is approaching.
Meanwhile, Deputy Boyd Davies — Hallie’s maybe-boyfriend — responds to a call about a prowler only to have the woman shot dead by a sniper right in front of him. When the police comb her house, they find an older body and some unusual stones. A mystery unfolds involving several local citizens and a conflict that began decades before.
This is one of those series where you can say the characters feel like old friends, and it’s not just a platitude. I really feel like I’ve gotten to know these people over the course of the trilogy and it was a joy to “see” them again. There’s a dinner-party scene early in the book that is just beautiful in the way it brings together most of Hallie’s loved ones into one place, highlighting her development since book one when she felt so alone and out of step. There’s also a sweet love scene that makes it clear how important Boyd has become to her. One might sometimes wish for the characters to talk about their feelings a little more on-page, but that’s just not the way these stoic characters are — you have to read between the lines, and watch their actions. Coates has a warm touch, too, with the scenes involving dogs; there are several canines in the book (both natural and supernatural) and they’re all wonderful.
The eventual resolution of the plotlines occurs a bit too much off-screen, which detracts from the impact some. And, too, the magical elements don’t feel like they reach a peak in this final book, as one might expect. In hindsight, it feels like they peaked in book two.
That said, maybe that’s part of the point. The series isn’t really about the “epicness” of the magic but about character and place, and Coates delivers on those two fronts in spades throughout all three books. I’m sad that there will be no more in this series; Taylor County feels big enough to hold more stories, and I’ll miss Hallie and Boyd something terrible.
But as Ole reflects, the murder rate is starting to get noticeable. And Deborah Coates does what all writers want to do: she leaves us wanting more.
www.fantasyliterature.com
Hallie Michaels has moved into the Pabahar place and finds herself staying inside its protections more often than she cares to admit. She knows one day there will be another reckoning with Death, and she’s in no rush to have that conversation. But cryptic messages start showing up, telling her the time to face her fear is approaching.
Meanwhile, Deputy Boyd Davies — Hallie’s maybe-boyfriend — responds to a call about a prowler only to have the woman shot dead by a sniper right in front of him. When the police comb her house, they find an older body and some unusual stones. A mystery unfolds involving several local citizens and a conflict that began decades before.
This is one of those series where you can say the characters feel like old friends, and it’s not just a platitude. I really feel like I’ve gotten to know these people over the course of the trilogy and it was a joy to “see” them again. There’s a dinner-party scene early in the book that is just beautiful in the way it brings together most of Hallie’s loved ones into one place, highlighting her development since book one when she felt so alone and out of step. There’s also a sweet love scene that makes it clear how important Boyd has become to her. One might sometimes wish for the characters to talk about their feelings a little more on-page, but that’s just not the way these stoic characters are — you have to read between the lines, and watch their actions. Coates has a warm touch, too, with the scenes involving dogs; there are several canines in the book (both natural and supernatural) and they’re all wonderful.
The eventual resolution of the plotlines occurs a bit too much off-screen, which detracts from the impact some. And, too, the magical elements don’t feel like they reach a peak in this final book, as one might expect. In hindsight, it feels like they peaked in book two.
That said, maybe that’s part of the point. The series isn’t really about the “epicness” of the magic but about character and place, and Coates delivers on those two fronts in spades throughout all three books. I’m sad that there will be no more in this series; Taylor County feels big enough to hold more stories, and I’ll miss Hallie and Boyd something terrible.
But as Ole reflects, the murder rate is starting to get noticeable. And Deborah Coates does what all writers want to do: she leaves us wanting more.
www.fantasyliterature.com
December 18, 2014
I don't know how it's taken me until the third book to pinpoint what is so annoying about this series, but I've finally got it down! I was halfway through when I just became too frustrated with the story and writing to fully continue, so I skimmed the rest and read the end and realized I missed nooooothing from the plot. A character is shot. That's all that happens in the 150 pages I skimmed. Anyway, my issue with the writing: it's trying much too hard to be casual yet dramatic all at once. Almost every time a character speaks, the author has to describe and THEN explain that character's tone or real meaning. As if the character's words and the "she said lazily" following it doesn't explain that the character is feeling lazy. OR sometimes the afterwards explanation is just some omniscient know-it-all who is explaining what the character is REALLY saying. For example, page 134:
"It's an official police investigation," he repeated. Like, I can't do this now, can't come up with anything else to say.
There are countless times when the author throws a "like what he really meant was..." after a character speaks and it becomes exhausting. Always a 'like' thrown in there... sometimes multiple likes, to explain numerous different ways. Trying to pack hidden meaning or angsty midwest attitude into every uttered word. Another ridiculous excerpt, page 157:
"I know," Beth said. "It doesn't mean I'll stop looking."
"Good luck," Hallie said.
"Yeah."
Yeah.
[chapter ends]
I did not include that extra 'yeah' at the end, and no one spoke it. It was actually written there. Maybe I'm being nitpicky but COME ON. Is that ridiculousness necessary?
There are several other things that bothered me about the book... all of which could have just been solved by a good editor. The dragging of the plot and the endless repetition or summarizing of events that have already occurred (which adds to the issue of a dragging plot). There are also numerous errors within the text (a character named "Cross" is called "Crooks" at one point)... I know those mistakes are editorial, but they're still very annoying.
I realize now the reason I stuck with the series for as long as I did is that the books have a very good sense of place. The land the characters are living on is almost a character itself, and the descriptions of it are beautiful. It just wasn't enough to hold back my frustration with the superfluous and dramatic dialogue and dialogue explanations.
"It's an official police investigation," he repeated. Like, I can't do this now, can't come up with anything else to say.
There are countless times when the author throws a "like what he really meant was..." after a character speaks and it becomes exhausting. Always a 'like' thrown in there... sometimes multiple likes, to explain numerous different ways. Trying to pack hidden meaning or angsty midwest attitude into every uttered word. Another ridiculous excerpt, page 157:
"I know," Beth said. "It doesn't mean I'll stop looking."
"Good luck," Hallie said.
"Yeah."
Yeah.
[chapter ends]
I did not include that extra 'yeah' at the end, and no one spoke it. It was actually written there. Maybe I'm being nitpicky but COME ON. Is that ridiculousness necessary?
There are several other things that bothered me about the book... all of which could have just been solved by a good editor. The dragging of the plot and the endless repetition or summarizing of events that have already occurred (which adds to the issue of a dragging plot). There are also numerous errors within the text (a character named "Cross" is called "Crooks" at one point)... I know those mistakes are editorial, but they're still very annoying.
I realize now the reason I stuck with the series for as long as I did is that the books have a very good sense of place. The land the characters are living on is almost a character itself, and the descriptions of it are beautiful. It just wasn't enough to hold back my frustration with the superfluous and dramatic dialogue and dialogue explanations.
October 9, 2015
From book 1 Wide Open to book 2 Deep Down and now in book 3 Strange Country I have been pleased with the steady pace, the character development, the mysteries that are solved and the bits of romance that flow through each book.
Leaving behind Taylor County South Dakota with it's far reaching vistas of wide open spaces, and once again Hallie Michaels home, was not quite the wrench that was afraid it would be after spending the past week learning about the inhabitants.
Strange Country neatly completed the trilogy while at the same time leaving one wanting more, which is in my opinion good storytelling by the author.
Not going to be everyone's cup of tea but the fact that this was a contemporary fantasy without the normal "smoke and mirrors" that I associate with most of my paranormal genre reading made it perfect for me to lose myself in for a few days.
Leaving behind Taylor County South Dakota with it's far reaching vistas of wide open spaces, and once again Hallie Michaels home, was not quite the wrench that was afraid it would be after spending the past week learning about the inhabitants.
Strange Country neatly completed the trilogy while at the same time leaving one wanting more, which is in my opinion good storytelling by the author.
Not going to be everyone's cup of tea but the fact that this was a contemporary fantasy without the normal "smoke and mirrors" that I associate with most of my paranormal genre reading made it perfect for me to lose myself in for a few days.
December 10, 2014
I love this series. The protagonist is an actual well-rounded "strong female character" in the best sense of the word... She's skilled, independent, actually has other female friends, doesn't leap into a relationship just so the book can get sexy, etc etc etc.
On the other hand, while reading this third book, I kept getting caught up on how repetitive the language could be. Did I not notice it as much in the first two books, or did it start with this one? Was it a conscious choice by the author, or something that slipped past the editor? I don't know, but it could be very distracting.
Strange Country expands upon the interesting mythology and cast of characters established in the first two books. I really like how this series takes a lot of the tropes found in "urban fantasy" and sets them out in rural ranch country instead. Vast, sweeping prairies and the eeriness of the badlands are a nice change from skyscrapers and night clubs.
On the other hand, while reading this third book, I kept getting caught up on how repetitive the language could be. Did I not notice it as much in the first two books, or did it start with this one? Was it a conscious choice by the author, or something that slipped past the editor? I don't know, but it could be very distracting.
Strange Country expands upon the interesting mythology and cast of characters established in the first two books. I really like how this series takes a lot of the tropes found in "urban fantasy" and sets them out in rural ranch country instead. Vast, sweeping prairies and the eeriness of the badlands are a nice change from skyscrapers and night clubs.
July 28, 2014
This one seemed a lot more cohesive than the last one - which seems to be the way with series, you start with a great one, the second one stumbles a bit, but by the 3rd the author tends to get their footing (at least, for a good series, if the 3rd still falls flat, it might be time to throw in the towel). Deborah Coates definitely found her footing with this 3rd installment to the Hallie Michaels story - I love how things are starting to come together for Hallie. Coates' voice is, as always, amazing and lends a real sense of place to the story - I cannot get over how spacious her storytelling feels. I really hope there's another one in the works.
July 31, 2014
Deborah Coates has really hit her stride. Her storytelling and mythology are tight, and the (always slight, even in Wide Open) unevenness of a debut/sophomore author has smoothed out. This is likely to be one of my favorite books of 2014, and I'm excited to see what she does next, in the Hallie Michaels storyline or otherwise.
unexamined
December 18, 2015Made it to page 102 (end of the tenth chapter, just less than a third of the way through the book), but I picked this up not knowing it was (according to other reviews?) the third and final book of a trilogy. The writing's lovely and the characters are sympathetic, but I just feel like I'm missing too much. Going to set this one down.
July 29, 2014
Third in the Wide Open series, another satisfyingly dark contemporary fantasy featuring an admirable Afghan war hero and her deputy confronting Death and fighting dark magics in the Badlands of South Dakota.
November 28, 2014
Enjoyed the last of the trilogy but the author should take note that there's this thing called a phone car charger. There should never be a time that cell phones should be out of charge when the characters drive so much.
December 1, 2015
I just love Deborah Coates's spare, Spartan writing style. It is so evocative of the place that I can feel the South Dakota wind as I read. I was a bit dissapointed in the showdown, which fizzled rather then banged, but everything else- top notch.
July 9, 2015
Best of the three, but Hallie's thought process is much more interesting than her conversation. Her trademark, yeah, ok, shit and jesus return to this book. That is about the diversity of her speech.
October 5, 2016
Eerie and echoing, vivid descriptions and dialogue, I always savor a Deborah Coates novel. I didn't want to put it down, and I didn't want it to end. The climax was undercut, but the emotional resolution picked it up and carried me to a satisfying ending.
August 22, 2014
I really enjoyed this book. I do wish there was further detail in "battle" in the end. Other than that it was great read!
August 17, 2014
Reviewed by Kelly: http://www.fantasyliterature.com/revi...
November 27, 2014
I really like this series, it's different.
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