A Stranger Came Ashore

By Mollie Hunter

Rating: 4 1/4 stars

Reviewed by Noelle

On a dark and stormy night, a stranger washes ashore from a shipwreck to the Shetland Islands. The Henderson family answers the knock on their door to meet Finn Learson, a handsome young man who is the only survivor of the wreck. Everyone is soon charmed by Finn, but 12 year old Robbie and his grandfather, Old Da, seem suspicious of him. Where did he get that piece of gold? And what about that small secret smile? And why does he want Robbie to keep away from the caves in the voe where the seals are? And why are his grandfather's last words to not trust Finn? Finally, when Elspeth, Robbie's sister, seems to fall under Finn's spell, Robbie knows it is time to take action. For if what he suspects is true, Elspeth's very life is in danger, and only one man may be able to help save her. This is a story filled with suspense, legend and superstition on islands steeped with it. Readers will be captivated by this quick-moving and unusual tale laced with magic and menace. A great story!