Virtual Strangers, the debut novel by Irish-born author Sam Canning, who relocated to Scotland, is a refreshingly modern rom-com. It blends the charm of historic Edinburgh with the relatable frenzy of everyday life and the now-common reality of remote work.
Ada, disillusioned by a London heartbreak, returns to her Edinburgh roots. Determined to be her own boss, she launches a public relations agency. Tired of the home office monotony, she rents a desk at a charming café with a dedicated workspace. This is where she meets Fraser, and they strike up a supportive working partnership, sharing the table and their professional struggles.
After work, Ada harbours a passion for Agatha Christie mysteries and on a dedicated online forum, she engages in lively discussions with a fellow enthusiast known only as Myster-E.
Ada‘s character was so believable, it was easy to connect with her. Faced with a failed relationship, she boldly ditches her job, embraces the comfort of her mother’s home, and leverages her skills to become her own boss. Yet, Ada remains relatable. She’s not one for weekday power dressing, avoids late-afternoon coffee for fear of sleepless nights, and cherishes the occasional weekend spent lounging at home instead of exploring.
While some of her choices may not resonate universally, her journey and the challenges she encounters feel true to life. Her world perfectly captures the unpredictable nature of life, where moments of calm can seamlessly transition into chaotic whirlwinds.
However, a glimpse into Fraser‘s perspective, perhaps through a bonus chapter, would have enriched the story by providing more depth to his character. Similarly, delving deeper into Myster-E‘s online interactions could have further enhanced the narrative.
The supporting characters are equally well-rounded and believable. Ada‘s mother finds solace in “Midsomer Murders” reruns, Neal embodies the quintessential Scottish love for hiking, and her best friend Amal presents a façade of a perfect life that slowly crumbles. The portrayal of Amal‘s situation, particularly the raw and emotional argument with Ada, left me deeply moved. It’s a rare feat for a book to evoke such strong emotions in me, and this scene, along with the one between Ada and her mother, did just that.
Living in Edinburgh myself, I especially enjoyed the vivid portrayal of the city. The familiar streets and local customs woven into Ada‘s life added a delightful layer of authenticity. While Canning‘s prose remains smooth and accessible, the occasional sprinkling of Scottish expressions elicited a smile in me.
Virtual Strangers is a heart-warming exploration of love, not just romantic but also personal growth. It fosters a connection with the characters, leaving you invested in their journeys and rooting for their success.
It’s Scotland. Everything’s a fifteen-minute walk from a castle.
