When it comes to creating memorable characters, Liz Nugent is a genius. Her characters may not always be likeable, but you will remember them. The main character in STRANGE SALLY DIAMOND captured my interest immediately. Sally is an adult, socially awkward woman living with her widowed father. Sally would rather pretend to be deaf than interact with others. There are no shades of gray with Sally. She takes comments from others quite literally.
Her elderly father would joke with her about putting his body out with the trash when he died. When he dies from natural causes, Sally put his body in their garbage incinerator. When her actions are discovered, Sally comes under the scrutiny of the police and the press. She discovers things about her past that had been hidden from her. To say that Sally's early years were traumatic would be an understatement. It is wonderful to see Sally's world expand as she begins to build friendships in her community.
Unfortunately news of Sally's existence attracts others from her dark past. I was totally invested into the exploration of Sally's life and those wanting to be a part of her world. STRANGE SALLY DIAMOND is a gripping read. Thanks to @SimonSchusterCA for an advance copy.

Liz Nugent has quickly become one of my favourite author the past few years and she has truly outdone herself with Strange Sally Diamond!
The story kicks off with Sally putting her fathers deceased body out with the weekly garbage just as he had always jokingly told her to do. You see, Sally's a little different due to a traumatic childhood that she remembers nothing about. From the the story lets us get to know Sally more, and also explore another timeline with another character that helps to put together all the pieces of Sally's puzzled life.
The book kept me on the edge of my seat and I finished it in less than a day. The characters was wonderfully written and the story is so compelling as it deals with topics such as family, relationships, trauma and the ties that bind.

Please find my spoiler free youtube review attached.