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    Mist of Midnight: A Novel
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    Mist of Midnight: A Novel
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    Mist of Midnight: A Novel
    Ebook401 pages6 hours

    Mist of Midnight: A Novel

    By Sandra Byrd

    4.5/5

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    Currently unavailable

    Currently unavailable

    About this ebook

    In the first of a brand-new series set in Victorian England, a young woman returns home from India after the death of her family to discover her identity and inheritance are challenged by the man who holds her future in his hands.

    Rebecca Ravenshaw, daughter of missionaries, spent most of her life in India. Following the death of her family in the Indian Mutiny, Rebecca returns to claim her family estate in Hampshire, England. Upon her return, people are surprised to see her...and highly suspicious. Less than a year earlier, an imposter had arrived with an Indian servant and assumed not only Rebecca's name, but her home and incomes.

    That pretender died within months of her arrival; the servant fled to London as the young woman was hastily buried at midnight. The locals believe that perhaps she, Rebecca, is the real imposter. Her home and her father's investments reverted to a distant relative, the darkly charming Captain Luke Whitfield, who quickly took over. Against her best intentions, Rebecca begins to fall in love with Luke, but she is forced to question his motives—does he love her or does he just want Headbourne House? If Luke is simply after the property, as everyone suspects, will she suffer a similar fate as the first “Rebecca”?

    A captivating Gothic love story set against a backdrop of intrigue and danger, Mist of Midnight will leave you breathless.
    LanguageEnglish
    PublisherHoward Books
    Release dateMar 10, 2015
    ISBN9781476717876
    Unavailable
    Mist of Midnight: A Novel

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    Reviews for Mist of Midnight

    4.5/5

    59 ratings12 reviews

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    • 4/5
      Where I got the book: purchased on Amazon. I know Sandra Byrd personally. An IRL book club read.I’d only read one of Sandra Byrd’s Tudor historicals (To Die For) in the past. I didn’t read the series, not being a big Tudor fan (although my oldest daughter IS a big Tudor fan and has read the lot). But now she’s diving into Victorian gothics, she’s got my full attention. I’m starting to think of Byrd’s books as “romance-plus”—there’s a strong romantic arc but there’s a whole lot more going on under the hood.The plot of this one is nicely twisty. Rebecca Ravenshaw’s parents, missionaries in India where Rebecca grew up, have been killed in the Mutiny. Rebecca’s brother died years before, so Rebecca’s only hope of avoiding destitution is to lay claim to the family mansion. Which turns out to be inhabited by a distant cousin, Luke Whitfield, but that’s only the start of Rebecca’s problems. Jaws drop when she turns up, because this is the second time a young woman claiming to be Rebecca Ravenshaw has claimed the estate, and the first claimant is dead.Mix in a dubious new friend, an even more dubious French maid, a cat who seems strangely attached to the room where the previous Rebecca died, and a countryside persistently wreathed in mist, and throw in the classic gothic am-I-losing-my-mind? ploy, and the fun can begin. In addition the heroine must do some serious pondering about her position as a single woman of wealth who will lose the whole lot to her husband the moment she marries, and encounter difficulties adjusting to England after a lifetime spent absorbing Indian culture. Layers of plot, which Byrd does a good job of keeping in hand on the whole (although I don’t think the cat’s behavior was ever sufficiently explained). I like having more to think about than the romance, although even that was nicely played against a background of English snobbery about inherited wealth and position, power and appearance. I found the ending to be satisfying, and if you follow my reviews you’ll know that endings often disappoint me so it made a nice change that the Big Reveals were pretty good reveals. To talk about the two things I didn’t like in the ending would involve spoilers, and they’re definitely a case of YMMV so I’ll keep quiet about them. Byrd is a Christian writer so there were references to the Bible and prayer and so on, but since Rebecca is a missionaries’ daughter you’d expect some religion. I don’t think any non-Christian readers are going to be thrown by any of it—indeed, some Christian readers may think Byrd doesn’t go far enough. Dare I say damned if you do . . . ?Being English myself, I’ve always got my ears pricked for turns of phrase and references that don’t sound quite English enough, especially when it comes to the Victorians. There were some faint echoes of the American idea of England in there, but not so much that they bothered me. In the first 60-70 pages I sometimes found the language a little stilted, but by the end of the novel Byrd seemed to have thoroughly found her rhythm and besides, I was so absorbed in the story I probably forgot to notice.All in all a sound read that should please anyone who’s fond of the gothic end of the romance field. I’ll be back to read further books in this series.
    • 5/5
      It would be horrible to have lost your whole family and then for everyone to think you weren't who you said you were. Rebecca has this happen. It would be awful. This book has great romance and intrigue. Is anyone who they say they are. Is anyone telling the truth? I did not want to put this book down. So kept my interest. I received a copy of this book from the author for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.
    • 5/5
      Reminds me of Jane Eyre and Victoria Holt. It was a splendid story !
    • 4/5
      I knew from the description going in that this novel had some Gothic elements, but unfortunately, its presence is a lot heavier than originally anticipated. I was again reminded why I’m not a big fan of the Gothic genre. The fumbling sleuthing of our heroine and the overly gloomy atmosphere all show their ugly heads. If the setting had been moved to the Moors of northern Yorkshire, I wouldn't be that surprised. But that being said, there are elements to the novel that save it from the scrapheap for me.I have to give the author kudos for her research, historical details, and the balance she achieves between them and actual storytelling. The India parts were the most enjoyable for me. Seeing how the events of the Mutiny influenced Rebecca’s outlook on life and her faith made the story richer for me. I also liked how she held onto parts of her Indian background, incorporating aspects of that culture she grew up with into her own personality and still enjoying a love for the culture despite the hurt that country did her. The relationship between Rebecca and Luke made the novel for me. It’s alternately sweet and mysterious, though the mystery part sometimes took too heavy a part in the storytelling for this non-Gothic liking reader. Yet, these two individuals seem made for each other. Their interactions strolling through gardens and picnicking under moonlight made for a very romantic atmosphere that helped to balance out the overwhelming gloomy parts a bit. The relationship starts out slow and builds over time, which I liked. It becomes based on mutual respect, despite the cloud of suspicion over Rebecca in the circumstances in which she emerges in England again. I liked that.Once you get past the Gothic stuff, this novel is very enjoyable. The central relationship makes the novel, bringing the reader to a very satisfying level, romance-wise. The author’s attention to detail and research shows through, evenly balanced and interwoven with the overarching story. I could overlook the blundering sleuthing and eye-rolling melodrama in this one. It’s still an enjoyable read I think others will like as well.Note: Book received for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review via NetGalley.
    • 4/5
      Returning to her family estate after twenty years in India and the loss of her missionary parents in The Mutiny, Rebecca Ravenshaw doesn’t expect to discover an imposter has not only preceded her but also passed away, leaving a mystery in her wake.Now Rebecca must prove her claim and adjust alone and friendless to what feels like a foreign land rather than home. There are obvious differences in MIST OF MIDNIGHT and the Gothic’s I’ve read in the past. MIST OF MIDNIGHT doesn’t have the dark, oppressive, air of foreboding they all had in common. Rebecca’s movements are less restricted also. Rather than being confined to an isolated manor house or small village with few characters, MIST OF MIDNIGHT has Rebecca visiting the large village of Winchester to shop and see to errands, attending functions and balls, hosting picnics, being called on and making calls, and even venturing to London. In addition to these differences, there was no point where I believed Rebecca’s life was truly in peril; her well being and security perhaps but never her life. However, there is a lack of certainty regarding who is trustworthy. Who’s a friend and who’s a foe? I questioned each characters actions, honor, and possible motive(s). The central mystery involves Rebecca’s impersonator and her death. Who was this woman? How did she manage to arrive and lay claim to Headbourne and Rebecca’s monies before Rebecca could even obtain safe passage from India after the Mutiny? What happened to the woman’s Indian maid? Was her death truly self murder or did someone remove her for their own self serving reasons? There are whispers and obvious snubs surrounding Luke, Captain Whitfield, dating from the imposter’s death and burial. As a distant relative her death benefited him greatly. Is he what he appears or does his friendly, thoughtful exterior hide sinister motives? Is Miss Delia Dainley’s offer of friendship and assistance genuine or are there strings attached? What about Rebecca’s French ladies maid, Michelene, who also served the imposter? What secrets is she hiding? The servants are borderline insubordinate with Rebecca excluding Landreth. What’s behind their manner? A plethora of questions for inquiring minds.The defined, realistic characterizations are enhanced by Ms. Byrd’s incorporation of India, its culture, languages, and history into MIST OF MIDNIGHT. Its inclusion adds depth and historical interest, rounding out the story nicely. As to the ending (not the epilogue) I’m still of two minds. I’d classify MIST OF MIDNIGHT as light gothic with strong historical element and authentic (formalized) romance. Nice change of pace from recent reads so I’m definitely on board for the next book in the series.Reviewed for Miss Ivy’s Book Nook Take II, Manic Readers, & Novels Alive TV
    • 4/5
      I found myself quite engaged with plot and characters, so much so I swept through this wonderful book in a matter of hours, the suspense and mystery working hand in hand holding my attention and curiosity.The gripping plot took me by surprise. Along with Rebecca discerning the culprit of who actually was the identity theft wasn’t easy, I was pleasantly surprised when the thief was discovered. Byrd provides enough twists and turns to add interest only fueling the mystery aspect. The romance element was well done, the tension builds as Rebecca and Luke tip toe around each other uncertain of each other’s true character as they attempt to ignore the undeniable mutual chemistry. Lots to keep your interest high as the story unravels. I wish there was a tad more ‘horror’ however, what was provided was entertaining.Of course I took to Rebecca instantly. A strong young woman, independent and determined to prove her identity. Considering her loss and unfortunate circumstances she holds her own and isn’t deterred by others disbelief. Cautious, prudent, careful with trusting, she guards herself well, very self aware especially regarding her feelings towards Luke. An intelligent young woman with plenty of self discipline and restraint.Byrd paints a wonderful setting of England and India. Her descriptions allow both locations to come alive. Weaving both settings into the narrative was well done adding texture and further interest.Byrd deftly threads faith throughout the narrative with delicacy and appropriateness. Given Rebecca’s family background of missionaries her insertions were well placed giving plausibility to entire narrative.A delightful read capturing your attention from the start, full of mystery, no doubt you will be enthralled until the very end.
    • 4/5
      Paradise lost ...A mysterious romance with a touch of the Gothic. Rebecca Ravenshaw left England as a child 20 years ago, bound for India with her well to do missionary parents. She is one of a handful who survived the Indian Mutiny. After harrowing months and harrowing dreams, with her family dead, her life destroyed, she returns to England to her family home, to take up her life and claim her Hampshire estate, her inheritance and her place in society. Her arrival elicits consternation and disbelief. A young woman claiming to be her had convinced the family solicitors that she, the imposter, was Rebecca. The young woman has since died under suspicious and terrible circumstances. For Rebecca, the shock of having her identity stolen, of being left in limbo with an uncertain future, feed into and highlight her tragic past. Having suffered terribly, Rebecca finds herself cast into a society that withholds itself. Here she is, without support or true evidence of who she is with people who disinclined to believe her. Not only that, but a distant cousin has been named heir and has taken over her holdings, Captain Luke Whitfield, a troubled man who has his own set of secrets. Whom can she trust? Rebecca must wait for evidence of who she is to come from India, bide her time and try to solve the mystery of who the young woman is who impersonated her.Nicely written, the biblical quotes highlight Rebecca's inner fear, discussions and reasonings. I do like Mrs Ross, her chaperone. Clear headed and empathetic her role is not to be dismissed.A NetGalley ARC
    • 5/5
      Wednesday, March 4, 2015New Novel by Sandra Byrd! Mist of Midnight, © 2015Daughters of Hampshire, Book OneI await new historical fiction writings by Sandra Byrd. Love the depth of her telling!Arriving after long travel and weariness, Rebecca Ravenshaw is met with open ridicule and contempt. Rebecca Ravenshaw, indeed! Miss Ravenshaw was buried at Headbourne House estate. Who is there to prove her identity?How can it be? Homecoming in the dark of night and circumstance as an uninvited stranger?My home stolen, twice. My mother and father departed and my life in India. My brother, Peter, to cholera years earlier. Despair; would it ever depart? My life as a daughter of missionaries vanished, swiftly fleeting. In an instant I am propelled forward to vague memories of being at Headbourne House in earlier days.Consequences not of my own making, laid out before me. Timing, perhaps, how could it have been avoided? The time lapse of escaping to come home. How do you leave the home you've known, to come home? A viable question.The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you.Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.--Deuteronomy 31:8As the story unfolds, I am wondering if there is a clue remaining from twenty years earlier ~ in storage ~ massive building that it is! Her identity must be reckoned with to free her to live fully.This is a wonderful author. I enjoy her books. So in-depth and consuming as you turn the page to continue their day. Flawlessly beyond a frivolous thought, you will be entertained and surprised, as real life comes upon us. I highly recommend her stories. Completely captivating and well-written, in time period and activity. Meaningful, as Truth prevails.***Thank you to author Sandra Byrd and to Howard Books for this Advance Reading Copy for review as part of the CBA Blog Tour. This review was written in my own words. No other compensation was received.***
    • 4/5
      Was this woman the "real" Miss Ravenshaw or was the Miss Ravenshaw that was at Headbourne House a few weeks ago the "real" Miss Ravenshaw.Rebecca Ravenshaw arrived with her chaperone from India after her parents were killed in an uprising and she was the only one in the family that had survived. Miss Ravenshaw had no place to go but back to her family mansion in England. When she arrived, everyone was shocked beyond belief.How can this be Miss Ravenshaw when she committed suicide not more than a few weeks ago and is buried in the estate's cemetery. Is this Miss Ravenshaw the imposter or was the first Miss Ravenshaw the imposter? Was the first Miss Ravenshaw murdered for her inheritance? Will the current Miss Ravenshaw have the same fate?MIST OF MIDNIGHT has a hint of sinister to it. None of the characters can be trusted especially her cousin Captain Luke Whitfield. As the days go on, though, Rebecca falls in love with Luke and he seems to return the affection, but is he simply pretending to have affection for Rebecca? Is he the one who killed the imposter so he could inherit the family mansion? Will he also murder Rebecca for the family mansion?We the readers will be taken into English society and attend balls and mingle with the English aristocrats as we try to figure out who is genuine, who is an imposter, and who is only out for money.MIST OF MIDNIGHT dragged a bit at the beginning, but the mystery and intrigue kept me going. As mist covers the estate grounds at night, it adds suspense, questions, jealousy, and finally love. 4/5This book was given to me free of charge and without compensation by the publisher in return for an honest review.
    • 5/5
      kept me on the edge the whole time never could figure it out . Very well written enjoyed every minute of it. keep up the good work .
    • 5/5
      Reminds me of Jane Eyre and Victoria Holt. It was a splendid story !
    • 5/5
      Back when I was in high school, there were a lot of authors that I read, like Victoria Holt, Barbara Michaels, Mary Stewart and Phylis Whitney. Loved them all. These stories by these forgotten authors always helped me get a release from my life as a unloved teen. I always felt a kindred spirit to the heroines in the stories. Mists of Midnight reminds me of these stories about women who are often in dangerous situations and men who are mysterious.I have read Sandra Byrd's Historical novels and really enjoyed them all. Mist of Midnight is the first in in the Daughters of Hampshire series. Victorian Era is  often described as highly moralistic, straitlaced language and behaviour and that is reflected in this book. You won't find any naughty language or situations but what you will find is a hint of the heroine, Rebecca Ravenshaw's, life growing up in India and when she arrives in Hampshire England. What she finds upon arrival is that someone had taken over her life and now Rebecca has to do what she can to prove she is who she says she is, especially to the man who resides in her family home, Captain Luke Whitfield. Mystery abounds as Rebecca delves further into who the woman was that impersonated her and why. Some things she finds out about Captain Luke Whitfield has her wondering if he is really who he appears to be or is there something more sinister about him. I believe that if you are looking for a book that has all the elements of a good story, mystery, romance and danger, then you should definitely pick up a copy of this first in a series. You will not be disappointed at all.