Awarding the novel five stars, this is the review written by Julie, Whispering Stories…

‘The Silver Lining’ is the fourth book in the Silveries series from the pen of British-based author, Angela Dandy. We return to Magnolia Court and slip effortlessly back into the lives of the well-loved residents. A recent bereavement amongst their number has resulted in a new arrival in the form of Penny, who brings with her a no-nonsense attitude and a fierce determination, making her a good fit for her new surroundings.

We then travel to Bucharest as a seemingly unrelated plot starts to develop. Readers of the Silveries will be taken out of their comfort zone as the harrowing story of Elena develops. The two worlds collide in an unlikely and chaotic way, plunging the plucky Magnolia gang and Penny in particular, into a dilemma which will prove to be far more dangerous than any of them can possibly imagine.

The story is written in the third person and the past tense with the action being seen from the perspectives of several different protagonists. We explore the backstories of the main Romanian characters and this gives us insight into their actions but elicits little sympathy or empathy. There is a good balance between description and dialogue with a steady pace throughout the story.

I confess to hoping for a slightly different ending but all loose ends were neatly tied and Angela Dandy has created an absorbing story. Whilst this book is part of a series, each stands alone. It is probably helpful to start with the first book, just to become familiar with all the names of the residents of Magnolia Court. However, in this instalment, the setting is a backdrop rather than the main focus of the tale.

As with her other books, ‘The Silver Lining’ is a tale of good versus evil. I very much enjoyed the story and wonder if Angela Dandy will allow us to again drop in to the wonderful world she has created at Magnolia Court? I award five well-deserved stars.