Step into the wonderfully weird world of The Stranger Times, where Manchester’s darkest corners pulse with paranormal mysteries and laugh-out-loud humor! Written by C.K. McDonnell, this urban fantasy series follows the chaotic staff of a newspaper dedicated to reporting the bizarre—think vampires, werewolves, and magical mayhem. With its sharp wit and lovable misfits, The Stranger Times is a thrilling ride for fans of Terry Pratchett and Ben Aaronovitch.
At its heart, the series centers on Hannah Willis, a new assistant editor who stumbles into a world where the tabloid’s wildest stories are shockingly real. From dark magicians to homicidal cherubs, The Stranger Times blends crime, comedy, and the supernatural into a delightful concoction that’s as addictive as a Manchester pub’s best pint.
How The Stranger Times Began
C.K. McDonnell, the pen name of Irish author Caimh McDonnell, crafted The Stranger Times as a love letter to his adopted hometown of Manchester. A former stand-up comedian and TV writer, McDonnell infused his debut paranormal series with the same dark humor that made his Dublin Trilogy a hit. Inspired by tabloid journalism and urban legends, he imagined a newspaper where the outrageous headlines—like possessed Santas or ghostly nightclubs—are true. Launched in 2021, the series quickly gained a cult following for its quirky premise and fast-paced storytelling.
The Heart of The Stranger Times
The series kicks off with The Stranger Times (2021), where Hannah Willis joins the paper and uncovers a grisly murder tied to a dark magician’s schemes. This Charming Man (2022) dives deeper, with vampires popping up in Manchester and the team grappling with magical chaos. Love Will Tear Us Apart (2023) explores love and loss as editor Vincent Banecroft confronts his wife’s mysterious return from the dead. Relight My Fire (2024) adds nostalgic flair with grave-robbing and a washed-up indie rocker, while Ring the Bells (2025) tackles a Christmas apocalypse.
Themes of found family, resilience, and embracing the absurd shine through, set against Manchester’s gritty, magical backdrop. McDonnell’s style—think rapid-fire banter and satirical newspaper snippets—gives the series a unique voice. Whether it’s Hannah’s sarcastic quips or Banecroft’s foul-mouthed rants, the characters’ chemistry drives the narrative, making each book a hilarious yet heartfelt adventure.
Why The Stranger Times Resonates
The Stranger Times has carved a niche in urban fantasy, blending paranormal thrills with social commentary on truth and journalism. Its diverse, flawed characters resonate with readers, earning praise for their depth and humor. The series’ British Fantasy Award for Best Audio in 2023 highlights its immersive storytelling, especially in audiobook form. Fans on Goodreads and Amazon rave about its Pratchett-esque wit, with many calling it a refreshing antidote to formulaic fantasy.
By celebrating Manchester’s eccentric spirit, McDonnell has created a world where the weird feels wonderfully real. The series’ growing fanbase and TV option underscore its cultural ripple, proving that truth, as The Stranger Times suggests, is often stranger than fiction.
- Publication Years: 2021–2025
- Number of Books: 5 (plus a forthcoming sixth, He Ain’t Heavy)
- Awards: 2023 British Fantasy Award for Best Audio
Grab The Stranger Times and dive into a world of paranormal hilarity and heart—your next favorite read awaits!