Stranger Things: Darkness on the Edge of Town: An Official Stranger Things Novel

I have been obsessed with Stranger Things since its premier. Since its release, I have collected much of what has been released in the Extended Universe series. This includes the comic books from Dark Horse and the novel series. After the release of Gwenda Bond's excellent "Suspicious Minds" prequel novel, I was ecstatic to find a second novel centered around my favorite character -- Jim Hopper -- that explores his past which was only scratched at in the series. Now, having seen the third season of Stranger Things, this novel is all the more wonderful, heartbreaking, and meaningful.The television show brought us the 80's and Reagan era; "Suspicious Minds" brought us back to the late 60's/early 70's Nixon and Vietnam era; and now, "Darkness on the Edge of Town" brings us to the late 70's Jimmy Carter era. And what better place to explore than late 70's New York City. A time when the city was on the brink of utter collapse. Author Adam Christopher brilliantly exposes the reader to this world that is the complete opposite of 1980's Hawkins, Indiana. He had me hooked from the very first pages as he brings the characters of Jim Hopper, and his family, back to life and into a whole new adventure that completely captivated me.The story follows Hopper on a mission to uncover the secret to a series of murders, which eventually leads him to discovering a greater, sinister and "stranger" plot going on. The story is engrossing and gritty. Whereas the television show focuses more on the supernatural and science-fiction genres, this novel is crime and mystery novel in every sense of the word yet it compliments the show perfectly. In doing so, Christopher also manages to introduce us to some brilliant new characters such as Jim Hopper's partner, Detective Rosario Delgado who I absolutely fell in love with. Her banter with Hopper is hilarious, fun, and engaging. Her storyline is excellent and she brings a great fire to the story. Can she become a character in Season 4 of the show, please??What I loved the most about the novel, however, was its structure. The book begins by putting us in a place of comfort and familiarity -- with Hopper celebrating his first Christmas with his new daughter, Jane, or Eleven as we've come to know her. Throughout the book, the story intercuts between this setting and with 1977 New York City as Hopper reveals the secrets of his past to Eleven. Christopher brilliantly establishes the terrific relationship between Hopper and El that completely compliments what we saw in Season 2, and eventually season 3. The attention to detail Christopher has committed to in the novel is seen all throughout.This is an absolutely brilliant must-read for any fan of Stranger Things. The story is captivating, the characters are fun to spend time with, and it expands upon the Stranger Things mythology brilliantly.

This is a good story but aside from every so often reminding you that Hopper is telling this story to El, you’d never know it had a link to Stranger Things. It is Hopper’s past as a cop in New York City. But there are no references to what happens during the TV series. And all of this could or couldn’t have happened, no effect on his life in the TV series. Again, good stand-alone story, but no value added to enhance Stranger Things.

Adam Christopher has taken the character of Jim Hopper and given his past a good story, a satisfying story, and the story that helps Eleven understand him better.

Book came in good condition, so no complaints there. However, the book wasn't the best. It was told very well as it takes place in 1984 (immediately after Season 2) and is told as Hopper telling El a story of his days in New York in 1977. I really enjoyed the book for the majority of it but was disappointed with the ending and thought it felt rushed. Also, without trying to spoil anything, Hopper talks in the beginning about giving El Hungry Hungry Hippos for Christmas because his daughter, Sara, used to love the game, and the book ends on Christmas Day in 1977 with Sara opening a present under the tree...it clearly should've been Hungry Hungry Hippos to tie the story together again but, SPOILER, it wasn't. I'm still a little salty about that. But if you like the tv series I think this is a good add on, not great, but still a fun read.

A well-written book that does a great job telling Hoppers back story, as a homicide detective in NYC. Definitely, check this one out if you are a fan of Stanger Things.

All around good purchase

Wonderfully well written. Some authors have trouble capturing the personality of an existing movie/tv character, that is not the case here. Great story, great background.

I loved this back story to one of my favorite characters in the show. Definitely recommend reading if you love ST.

This is a must read for any Stranger Things fan. This story tells the backstory of Hopper and his family prior to the events in the TV series. It's kinda like a detective novel. My 12-year old son is an avid fan of the series. He does not read very much aside from graphic novels but he could not put this book down! Great for a reluctant reader. The writing style is good, but not stellar. Probably written with adults in mind, but easily accessible for a competent younger reader. Recommended.

Muy buen libro

A mia figlia piace molto e vedo che lo legge anche con facilità

Sehr gut

SUPERB