Mist of Midnight by Sandra Byrd
Simon & Schuster, 2015
Reviewed by Diana Flowers
5 stars~
Secrets Amongst The Mist!
In Mist of Midnight, author Sandra Byrd has written a haunting Gothic romance set in Victorian England—of a mansion mysteriously shrouded by shadowy mists, and secrets as entangled as the overgrown vines surrounding it.
Rebecca Ravenshaw returns from India to claim her family estate in England after the death of her missionary parents. Less than a year earlier, an impostor had taken over her estate and her identity. The fake Miss Ravenshaw had died shortly thereafter, and was hastily buried amongst the ever rising mists surrounding Headbourne House at midnight. Rebecca finds her home and investments have been taken over by the darkly handsome, Captain Luke Whitfield. As Rebecca seeks to prove her identity, she finds herself deeply attracted to Luke. However, she does not trust his intentions and wonders if she could possibly meet the same demise as her impostor. Does Luke want her inheritance or her love...and who was the first "Rebecca" and exactly how did she die?
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| Ex-Missionary To India, Rebecca Hennas Her Hands For The Ball |
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| Sea Green Sari Rebecca Wears To The Ball |
Even if you aren't a fan of Jane Eyre or Wuthering Heights (which I am!), you're sure to love this Gothic novel; swathed in mystery and romance, moonlight picnics and luxurious balls— not to mention the exotic aura of India throughout. This is my first novel by author Sandra Byrd and I loved every single page of it! Rebecca is a thoroughly likeable heroine and Captain Whitfield, a deeply complex hero with many a secret and very swoon worthy indeed. With just enough chilling apprehension to raise a few goose bumps and the hair on the back of your neck as well, be sure and order your copy of this satisfying read today!
I am almost finished with this book and I can tell you it's one that's hard to put down! Luke is one very complex character who I'm not sure what to think of him just yet...I'm sure by the very end of the book, the mystery surrounding him will be resolved for me. And I love both those pictures of Rebecca's Indian costume and Henna, she must have been absolutely stunning at the ball! I mean, I read that already and had a picture in mind, but these photos bring it to life :-) Thanks for your review, I agree with all points!
ReplyDeleteI've also commented on Tuesday's post (review of Undercover Bride)
teamob4 (at) gmail (dot) com
TRIXI, isn't this book just one of the best you have read this year? I love how the author doesn't reveal anything until the conclusion. I thought I had it all figured out -- girl, was I wrong. I has to use my imagination with the pics. Lol Thanks for sharing!!
DeleteI await new historical fiction writings by Sandra Byrd. Love the depth of her telling. I have read the three stories in her Ladies in Waiting series and Mist of Midnight, book 1 in the Daughters of Hampshire series. Two more coming to look forward to. If there were more than five-star ratings, I would give them for her novels. So intriguing as Truth is revealed. I wonder if there will be a returning of someone looking for the first "Rebecca." Someone who knew the real Rebecca well. Thank you for reviewing this author's great storytelling. I, too, commented on the first section, Tuesday ~ Noela's review. Appreciate Overcoming with God ~ in my own life too! Kathleen ~ Lane Hill House lanehillhouse[at]centurylink[dot]net
ReplyDeleteThank you, KATHLEEN! We appreciate you as well! I, too, am wondering about the second book. Wondering if Rebecca will be in it at all...you know how that goes. This is the first novel I have read by Sandra Byrd but I'm hooked! Thx for sharing, Kathleen!
DeleteKathleen, that's a novel idea! About the possibility of someone coming to try to find the first "Rebecca" (hint hint Sandra, lol) , now you have me intrigued! I think that would make for a wonderful story ;-) Just an update: I have finally finished this book...and WOW...what an ending! Diana, I agree with you. Here I thought I had it figured out and...wham....it changes! Yes, definitely one of the best books I've read so far this year! A very satisfying end indeed, Sandra.......
DeleteTRIXI, thanks for coming back! Yeah, what an ending, huh? I have a great idea! I think you and KATHLEEN should put your heads together and write your own novel! You guys have some great ideas. I think Sandra has already started writing it (since it comes out this winter, I think), so your ideas for the second book may not work. We'll see what she has up her sleeve. ;)
DeleteYou know, this was the first book by Sandra Byrd that I've read. Loved it...and your review. I got to relive that biblio thrill as I read it. LOL One of those books that still leaves you with a shiver of delight even months after you've read it.
ReplyDeleteThank you, KAV! Your awesome review convinced me to read this, as I had also never read any of Sandra Byrd's books before. Simply an amazing book and yes, still shivering. Lol Looking forward to Book Two, aren't you?
DeleteOoh I got chills just reading your review! Not only because the book sounds so completely enticing and thrilling, but because your review is just simply stunning as always!! Definitely sounds like a must-read!
ReplyDeleteOh, NOELA. You always make my day with your kind words. You MAY have the chills from KAV's comment above about shivering. Lol Thank you, my sweet cohort, and be sure to read this one IF you ever climb out of that overflowing pile of TBRs!! ;)
DeleteGreat review Diana! I haven't seen much in the goth genre. This sounds like a great read. I commented on both posts :)
ReplyDeleteSANDY, thank you! Sandra writes them like no other!
DeleteDiana, I enjoyed your fantastic review! I've been wanting to read this one for quite some time. Thank you also for the beautiful pictures. The henna is gorgeous.
ReplyDeleteThank you, CARYL! I love the henna, too, although I'm sure Rebecca's was quite different but alluring nonetheless. Put this one at the top of your wishlist, CARYL, and thx so much for sharing!!
DeleteThank you so much, Diana, for your enthusiasm and this terrific review. What an amazing way to start my work day!! Kathleen, I love reading your reviews of each and every book, and look forward to sending them to you as much, I'll bet, as you look forward to receiving them. Trixi - I think our man will make you happy in the end. :) I'd love to invite you all to sign up for my newsletter at www.sandrabyrd.com so I can let you know when Book 2 is out!
ReplyDeleteIt was so much fun writing this review, SANDRA! Will hop over and sign up! Excited about Book 2!
DeleteI've just been reading some old Gothic romances, so this sounds quite appealing at the moment! I'll definitely have to look it up.
ReplyDeleteAnd I did comment on Undercover Bride. Thanks for the giveaway!
Hi, RACHAEL! This one sounds definitely up your alley! I hope you get the chance to read it ASAP!
DeleteI read this book a few months ago and really enjoyed it. It reminded me of reading Daphne Du Maurier, Phyllis Whitney, and Victoria Holt novels years ago. It has just the right mix of romance and suspense.
ReplyDeleteI also commented on Noela's review of Undercover Bride earlier this week.
Thx for sharing, PAM! It is a wonderful mixture of something for everyone, it seems!
DeleteOhhh, I'd love to read this one. I do enjoy reading different genre's and this is one I do like! I really enjoyed the review..
ReplyDeleteI did post yesterday on that wonderful Maggie the Pinkerton detective, I love her story :)
dkstevensne AToutlookDOtco M
Thank you, DEANNA! This is an intriguing story and the mists make it even more mysterious! Good luck!
DeleteThank you Diana for this wonderful review. This book sounds so excellent and I would love, love, love to win this book. I love Victorian suspense and romance. I was an avid fan of Victoria Holt for this reason and I sure would love to find out what happens as the story unfolds. I am grateful for the chance to enter this wonderful contest. Hoping!
ReplyDeleteMary Lou K flowersmarylou85(at)gmail(dot)com
So good to see you here, MARY LOU! I'm sure you will enjoy this one as much as I. The book isn't being given away, HOWEVER if you win the $10 Amazon gift card, you can buy the book with that and only owe another $1.00. You can't beat that with a stick! :)
DeleteSweet, I enjoyed Jane Eyre and traveled to India. Plus I'm always intrigued by new genres to read, Goth being one of those. Thank you for the review!
ReplyDeleteWow, LAURA! This book sounds right up your alley then. India -- how exciting! Tossed your name in my cyberhat! ;)
DeleteI do enjoy a Gothic tale. This sounds marvellous.
ReplyDeleteTotally marvelous, MARY!! Good luck in the giveaway! Hugs!
DeleteThe review sold me. This will be on my to read list!
ReplyDeleteTAMMY, welcome to OWG! I'm so glad my review persuaded you to read this awesome book! Thank you for commenting and good luck!
DeleteBy your review and the above comments, this book is a must read. Thank you for sharing!
ReplyDeletemauback55 at gmail dot com
It absolutely is, MELANIE! Be sure to put it at the top of your wishlist!! :)
DeleteWOW!! A fabulous review, Diana - thank you!! A Gothic novel normally isn't one of my faves, however, your review of "Mist of Midnight"- along with it's story line and suspense - have definitely captured my interest!!
ReplyDeleteThank you, BONNIE! It was and wasn't all I thought it would be. I thought it would be all dark, but there was humorous interplay between the characters, balls, and fun playing croquet on the lawns. An excellent read with something for everyone!
DeleteI'm familiar with Sandra, but I've never had the privilege of reading any of her books. This one sounds absolutely thrilling! Perhaps this will be my first introduction to her work. Thank you for the amazing review! ~Blessings, Sandi
ReplyDeleteSANDI! It is sooo good to see you here! This is my first "Sandra" book, but it certainly won't be my last. She is quite the writer and I believe you'll love this one! You're welcome, Sandi, and sending blessings right back your way!
DeleteHi Diana, Loved your review. I have this book in my books to read. You make it sound good. I've never knew really what the Goth genre is. I could sure make good use of the gift card tho. Hope all of my OWG ladies are doing well. I was offline for several days for a family reunion and celebrating my brother's 90th birthday. It was so wonderful. So many there that I haven't seen in so long.. Some so unexpected. GOD answered the prayers that my brother and I would be well that weekend. We were both fine. PTL. One cousin I knew only on Facebook, was there. He was the son of my daddy's brother who was always away after I was big enough to remember. Then I finally met him only once when my grandparents were old and ill. This cousin was raised in Hawaii. Was so thrilled he was there. Only 7 of my grands and greats were not there. Was so happy. Got bunches of pictures from FB too with so many taking pictures. It lasted 3 1/2 days. :) Great memories were made. GOD bless you all.
ReplyDeleteMaxie > mac262(at)me(dot)com <
Happy Birthday to your brother, MAXIE! Wow, 90 years old! What a blessing and sounds like a fun time was had by all. I'm so glad you felt well enough to go! This was a fantastic book...be sure to move it up to the top of your TBR pile, MAXIE.
DeleteI've been intrigued by this book since I first saw the cover. I'm a huge Gothic fan so put my name in the hat. That way if I win, I can buy it ;)
ReplyDeleteThat's right, ANNE! :) I love Gothic, too, and this one sure takes the cake! Tossed your name in my cyberhat here. ;)
DeleteMist of Midnight sounds like a book you can't put down, I love the mysterious impostor! It has such atmosphere right from the title to your great review. :)
ReplyDeleteworthy2bpraised at gmail dot com
MERRY! It's been awhile! Thank you for sharing and for your kind words! I just loved the whole aura surrounding this book, and although it is Gothic suspense there is plenty of room for balls, picnics, and festivities! A great read!
DeleteVery interested in this one. Please enter me.
ReplyDeleteWelcome to OWG, MEDIEVAL GIRL! Good luck in the giveaway!
DeleteIt's been way too long since I've read Sandra Byrd. How exciting. Thanks for sharing! <3
ReplyDeleteThis is my first book by Sandra Byrd, MOMMALISA, but definitely not my last! Good luck in the drawing!
DeleteYes I've had weeks like that. God always comes through, even if it's not how we'd have liked.
ReplyDeleteSounds very intriguing. What a situation Rebecca has come back to!
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