The Stone, the Cipher, and the Shadows: John Bellairs's Johnny Dixon in a Mystery Paperback – 8 Aug. 2023

There's nothing nicer than reading a new book by a favourite author, and it's usually never the same, even if a series continues when such authors pass away. But Brad Strickland might as well be channelling John Bellairs, the way he keeps the characters so true to the Bellairs originals. This book has the same building sense of menace, the same beloved character quirks, and the same satisfying and exciting climaxes. I've never seen a writer continue a series so faithfully and with such spot-on nuances that make his books feel like the real deal. Thoroughly enjoyed this. Magical, sinister, funny, and just perfect.

This book was excellent! Brad has big shoes to fill, as he was originally hired to finish Bellairs' unfinished manuscripts and create from his story ideas after his passing in the 1990s. While there is a difference in their styles that longtime fans will notice, Brad still manages to write compelling fiction in the same tradition, that still feels "Bellairsian". I am beyond thrilled to see a new story with Johnny, Fergie, and Professor Childermass, and I feel like the flu pandemic backdrop attempted to show the importance of public health measures, especially in the wake of COVID-19. The story itself is compelling, building up the sense of mystery and bringing the details together with an unexpected twist in the end. Definitely a worthy read!

It arrived quickly in good condition.

I have been a fan of John Bellaires books for years. Brad Strickland completed a number of John Bellaires books after his death. I don't know if "The Stone, Cipher and the Shadows" was another uncompleted book, or a new one completely from Mr. Strictland. The book is great and continues the"Johnny Dixon" series. I did not know that this book was scheduled for release and what a treat it is. I hope there are more to come.

I was super excited to see a new book in the Bellair's universe after so many years without one. It was surprising to see one, and with little to no fanfare either. I read it as soon as I got it in one sitting and was a little disappointed. There were an number of spelling errors that should have been caught during proofing, such as luck being spelt as lck. Spoilers below.Overall, the story wasn't as fleshed out as it typically is in Strickland's works. There is a definite disconnect between the first 2/3rds and the last third. Nowhere does the reporter come across as malicious until he is revealed in the climax as the villian behind the shadow figures. The flu aspect of the story could be better integrated into the plot, instead of as a way to introduce a new character into the universe. Halfway through the book, the Professor starts calling Johnny, John Michael, which threw me for a loop. The story comes across as disjointed and feels rushed and incomplete. The fact that Ashburn had been studying the matter since his 20s, while the kids were able to figure the answer out by only looking at two books was unbelievable, especially since he led them to the first book. The break-in at Ashburn's house served no purpose other than to make Johnny nervous and was never explained. Father Higgens' role with the Latin version of the text on the lantern didnt make sense either, since the community that the story revolved around was not Catholic. The story is still a workable concept that I'd love to see re-released later as a more finished version. Brad, if you're interested, I'd love to talk with you further on ways to further this story. I am a big fan of your work and know this isn't typical for you.