A Novel (The Daughters of Hampshire) - Mist of Midnight

I received the book from the publisher for an honest review.

An excellent tale of loss, betrayal and trusting as one woman tries to claim back her identity and heritage.
Rebecca Ravenshaw had an horrific experience in India and had lost her parents during the Rebellion. When she finally stepped foot on English soil she thought that everything was good. But, once she arrived at Headbourne, her family estate, she realized that it would not be the case.
Not only was there an imposter, that stole her identity but also a suicide and a lot of mystery surrounding the Indian maid that disappeared. Every where she turned she walked into ill mannered people that mistrusted her and ostracized her, but this woman had some backbone that the aristocrats and servants had to recognize. They tested her on a few occasion but at the end Capt Whitfield came to her rescue. But with that the mystery to her imposter deepened. Who was she? Where was her maid? Was she murdered or did she in fact commit suicide?
With so many people around her, each with there own agenda, it was hard to find the truth, and yes the truth was shocking. Betrayal from so called friends had off balance her a few times but only her faith and a guardian angel kept her on track.
I must admit I loved the captain's character, wrapped in so many secrets of his own, his role couldn't be underestimated. He rose with each challenge posed to him, a real gentleman that saw past Rebecca's outward attire, the woman she really was. Enjoying her love for India, her beautiful stories and making way for her shortcomings. I loved the manner the author brought in the rich culture of India with the English culture, making it unique and beautiful.
It is a moving story, written with the greatest of love. The characters were believable, each strong in their own right, supporting Rebecca's character, making the story very interesting.
Ms.Byrd knows her audience and how to keep their attention throughout this Gothic love story that takes you back to the Rebellion of India in 1857 to the very English country side where you are judged by what you have and your name instead of the person you are.

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 f​irst 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. 4/5

This book was given to me free of charge and without compensation by the publisher in return for an honest review.

Okay -- seriously -- if you read only one book this year make sure it is this one. Yes, I think I really mean that! Because this is beyond incredible. Hello -- Gothic romance at it's absolute best. Be still my Victoria Holt loving heart! Just thinking about this story sends me into a near swoon of spine-tingling, toe-curling ecstasy!

Exquisite details create the classic dark ambiance of this genre. Just the name, Rebecca Ravenshaw screams Gothic heroine, doesn't it? And an enigmatic Captain, usurper of all that is hers. Hero or villain or something in between? Then there's the mystery -- questions Rebecca asks that no one will answer. Meddling servants. Two-faced friends. Distrustful locals. A bleak shroud of danger that hangs over Rebecca page after page.

The characterization and historical aspects are sublime. Such incredible details, from mannerisms to the whole upstairs downstairs vibe and, of course, the social proprieties of the day. It all just thrilled me right down to my toes. Still does. And, someone hand me a paper bag to hyperventilate in, Mist of Midnight is the first of a new series entitled Daughters of Hampshire but -- sob -- they are being released one a year so we have to wait until 2016 when Bride of Poseidon comes out. I might just have to read this one a couple of times over to get me through until then.

In case you missed it -- I loved this book!!!! And highly recommend it!!!!

Mist of Midnight is steeped in mystery and intrigue. Rebecca discovers that she has lost everything dear to her. She is not only left impoverished, but fearful. Who can she trust? Her distant cousin, Captain Luke has taken over Rebecca's property, and a strange imposter has stolen her identity.

Her family's manor house is depicted as dark and mysterious, with wings closed off and doors locked. The characters in this story are secretive, unfriendly and mysterious. Alone and still in mourning for her family, Rebecca's life is at the mercy of her host, Captain Luke who demonstrates a romantic interest in her while it appears that he is quite flirtatious with other women in his life.

Possible murder is implicated in the death of her imposter, and mysterious activities on the grounds at the manor sharpen Rebecca's wariness. Descriptive and penned with depth and creativity as well as mystique, this novel captured my attention to the end. I highly recommend this well-told Gothic mystery romance!

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher through Wynn-Wynn Media in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own, and no monetary compensation was received for this review.

Mist of Midnight
Sandra Byrd
Howard Books /Simon and Schuster, Mar 10 2015, $14.99
ISBN: 9781476717869

In 1858, Rebecca Ravenshaw grieves the loss of her missionary parents Sir Charles and Constance Ravenshaw killed during a Mutiny. Accompanied by her newly hired chaperone Mrs. MacAlister, she leaves Bombay to return to her homeland England for the first time in two decades. A couple of months later in England, Rebecca meets with her father’s solicitor Walter Hightower, but he and others think she is a cruel charlatan as the real Rebecca recently committed suicide at the family estate Headbourne; even her companion doubts who she is. She also learns that a stranger Captain Luke Whitfield has taken residence at her family estate.

Highmore interrogates her and says the London Missionary Society will send someone in a few months to prove the preposterous imposter’s claim is false. Whitfield allows Rebecca to stay at Headbourne until he assumes her scam is exposed. The staff treats her with contempt and incidents targeting Rebecca begin happening. Falling in love with her host who she fears might have killed the fake and soon her too, the beleaguered Rebecca turns to the Lord and her late mom for comfort and guidance.

Mist of Midnight is an exhilarating Gothic romantic suspense. The impact on the three-dimensional heroine by the identity theft is brilliantly executed as Sandra Byrd authors a taut Victorian thriller.

Harriet Klausner

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, reasonings and resolve. I do like Mrs Ross, her chaperone. Clear headed and empathetic her role is not to be dismissed.

From page one, readers will be entranced with Sandra Byrd’s Mist of Midnight. It is a spine-tingling Victorian England gothic mystery that readers will absolutely not want to put down. Filled with excitement and continual plot twists, readers will be pulled into this well-written, fascinating and intriguing tale of gothic mystery and romance. This is the type of novel that will suck you in, as you become attached to the various characters, but have continual confusion of who is good and who is bad and who to trust or not. Readers will become breathless, holding on to the edges of their seats, in anticipation of what will happen next. I would recommend this novel to readers that enjoy historical gothic romance novels.

Series: Daughters of Hampshire
Genre: historical, mystery, romance, gothic, Victorian, Christian
Publisher: Howard Books
Publication date: March 10, 2015
Number of pages: 374

Content Rating: PG, suspense
Book Rating: 5 stars

Other books in the series:
2-Bride of a Distant Isle
3-A Lady in Disguise (coming in 2017)

A review copy of this book was provided by the author.

Mist of Midnight is the first book in The Daughters of Hampshire series and I loved it! I had the privilege of reading Sandra Byrd's series, Women in Waiting and they were awesome. So when I saw this latest one I had to request it and I am glad I did! As a fan of Historical Fiction, this book did not disappoint. Sandra Byrd writes with authority on Missionary life, India in 1858, England in 1858, the state of world during the 1800's, the faith and religions of these places at this time, and how estates worked at this time. I enjoyed all of the characters in this book, they were well written and very real. I have to say that my favorite character is Rebecca Ravenshaw. Her integrity and her perseverance were just amazing and she relied on her faith to help her through all of these troubled times. She was a kind person who was not out for revenge but wanted to lay to rest whomever this impersonator was. Just a beautiful character. I found myself immersed completely in this book and had a very difficult time putting it down. This book is well written and it really keeps you guessing until the end. I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Christian Historical Fiction, you will not be disappointed. I give this book 5 STARS.

I received this book from Howard Books for no charge in exchange for my honest review of this book.

Gothic romances are a departure from the usual books that I read, but I must say I really enjoyed it! For me, the attraction factor of this story was the exotic upbringing of Rebecca Ravenshaw. She is the daughter of English missionaries doing God's Work in India. The India Rebellion of 1857 leaves her an orphan, so she returns to England.She is met with suspicious reception from the staff of her old family home Headbourne House. Someone claiming to be her had already been there and died mysteriously! She struggles to convince everyone that she is the real Rebecca Ravenshaw, including the potential love interest Captain Luke Whitfield. This is one of the best parts of the story- Rebecca attempting to convince others of her legitimacy. The other excellent facets of the story are the constant intrigue, infusion of East Indian culture, and the lovely chemistry between Luke and Rebecca. The mystery is slow-paced for me because I'm used to mysteries where dead bodies turn up at a regular rate and detective work is fast paced. Otherwise, I enjoyed this novel!

Rebecca Ravenshaw has lived in India since she was four years old, and now is returning to England after the tragic death of her missionary parents. What she finds when she come to her family’s estate is that no one believes she is whom she says. They believe that the real Rebecca lies in a grave on the estate, seems that everyone loved the imposter.
Now how do you prove whom you are when you left at four, how much would you remember, and how many people that knew your parents are still around? There is a new master of the estate, having had the property pass to him as the next in line to inherit. Luke Whitfield has embraced the property and is doing some much-needed repairs.
When Rebecca arrived Luke comes with the constable to meet her, like everyone else he believes her to be an imposter, and wonder how she could be playing such a cruel joke.
This story has it all, including possible murder, romance, imposters, and a bit of old fashioned gold digging. A really good look at the Victorian England, and the people who embraced the era, and we find out who becomes the winner.
I received this book through the Publisher Howard Books and Net Galley, and was not required to give a positive review.

“Um, I forgot”- isn’t this a response that mom’s constantly hear from their darling cherubs who perhaps didn’t complete their list of chores? Well I have to say, after reading Sandra Byrd’s captivating Gothic Romance novel Mist of Midnight, that was my response- “Um, I forgot how much I love a great Gothic Romance novel!, especially when penned by the hugely talented Sandra Byrd who weaves the historical parts of the novel into the story seamlessly . It just adds to the enjoyment for the reader and lends some authenticity to the time period of the story. (Read the author’s notes in the back of the book- so fascinating!)

Mist of Midnight hits that perfect balance in the story between , that sort of dark Gothic mystery where things “go bump in the night” and a delightful romance that springs up between the two characters. We have the lovely Rebecca Ravenshaw, a child of missionaries who lost her whole family overseas in India to both illness as well as the Rebellion that took place there. She is now tired and heartbroken and is coming home to England to take up residence in her family’s estate Headbourne House in Hampshire England. One slight problem is that she discovers that there was an impostor who had come to Headbourne House just previous to her, posing as “Rebecca Ravenshaw” and claiming her inheritance as well as her home. She then died under suspicious circumstances. So when she, the real Rebecca Ravenshaw, shows up, the town is skeptical ,as many haven’t seen her since she was a little girl. In residence in Headbourne House, is the very handsome Captain Luke Whitfield who is a distant relative next in line to inherit Headbourne House with the supposed death of Rebecca Ravenshaw. Luke is everything that the perfect gothic hero needs to be, as he is completely swoonworthy, but has that edge to him where you wonder exactly what his secrets might be- (think Mr Rochester in Jane Eyre)- is he a good romantic hero or is he going to murder you in your sleep? This keeps Rebecca, and the reader, off balance throughout the story right till the end as the mystery of what happened at Headbourne House with the impostor comes to light.

Also in all good gothic tales the residence, or House, is almost always like a character unto itself within the story as there is usually some mystery within the house and Mist of Midnight does not disappoint in that respect either with mysterious messages showing up on the walls and rooms that are locked up where Rebecca cannot enter, letters hidden in the attic, etc. Sandra Byrd knows her stuff and I was completely engaged in this story from the beginning until the end (which was delightful by the way.) I would never give away an ending, but I will say that there was an especially endearing little twist that I was not expecting at the end that I thought was very charming and fun to read.

All in all, a really wonderful read and I was delighted to see that the author just mentioned via social media that she had finished the second book in this series and all I can say is – “sign me up, I’m in “ and this time, there will be no forgetting how much I loved this book and how I am thoroughly anticipating the next one!

5 stars

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.

I absolutely loved this book!
Superb gothic intrigue and atmospheric suspense. Just enough said to cause me to question then read on to discover more. I would begin to relax about a character only to confront another action or conversation that proved them false. Or not...? Was anyone who they said they were?
Emotions and senses fully alert to decipher truth from deceptions mixed with danger.
And was Rebecca's romantic interest truly interested in her? or the manor...?

Fascinating detailed historical life of both England and India, Ms Byrd's writing is richly researched, knowledgeable of the Victorian period and descriptive.
A winning combo that made for an engrossing read. First in a series, MIST OF MIDNIGHT has definitely whet my appetite for Daughters of Hampshire continuations.

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.

Anyone who loves the Gothic romances of days gone by (think Victoria Holt, etc) is going to drool all over this evocative, atmospheric .(and dare I say "mist-filled"?) romance, taking place in the Victorian age. With lovely, haunting detail, this talented author has created a story that is both haunting and sublime. Mysterious and lovely with tension underlying even the most romantic scenes, Mist of Midnight is that "something different" you've been looking for from an inspirational romance publisher! Don't miss it!
(I received an advance copy of the novel for the purpose of giving an honest review.)

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

Learning history painlessly through the characters in a story is always a joy to me, IF I trust the author.
Sandra Byrd does an excellent job of weaving real events into this intriguing story with plenty of tidbits to delight her reader.
Her use of language transports you to the era.
There are plenty of twists, sure to keep you turning the pages long past midnight as it did me.
Whether you’re familiar with her work or are discovering it for the first time, you’ll enjoy Mist of Midnight.
(Be certain to enrich yourself by reading the author's notes. I cheated and read them first. For me, it made the story even more alive.)

Mist of Midnight
Daughters of Hampshire
By Sandra Byrd

Mist of Midnight is truly vintage Gothic romance and one you won't want to put down! A delightfully chilling book filled with intrigue and danger and a mystery woven throughout.

Rebecca Ravenshaw is the sole heir to her family's estate, or so she thought. Returning to England following the death of her parents Rebecca is shocked to learn that a young woman impersonating her has been installed in her home (as her!). Worse the young woman died in a suspicious manner and the estate has been turned over to a distant cousin, a Captain Whitfield.

With no one to verify her identity, Rebecca is unable to lay claim to her home or her inheritance. Her knowledge of her parents work as missionaries in India is her only hope, but it could take months to validate her.

More puzzling is the identity of the young woman who took advantage of the Indian Mutiny from which Rebecca barely escaped and which claimed the lives of her parents. How did this impostor know enough to fool those around her. And even more troubling how did the young woman die? Was it natural causes or was it foul play as has been suggested and implied? And what role did Captain Whitfield play in the entire situation?

Mist at Midnight is the perfect way to spend the waning hours of the night - mystery, betrayal, intrigue all wrapped in the possibility of romance. Sandra Byrd has woven yet another masterful tale drawing upon historical fact, her ability to craft fiction and to create characters that have both depth and dimension.

I am excited to see what comes next in this series that has captured my attention with this first offering. Fans of Victoria Holt and Phyllis Whitney will enjoy this Victorian era Gothic romance, And fans of clean romance will enjoy this book with no need to blush.

I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher Howard Books in exchange for my honest review.

I finished Mist of Midnight on a rainy Saturday evening two weeks ago. The amazing story has stayed with me. The narrative was so engaging I felt like I was in a dream that I didn't want to end. The killer opening followed by the unfolding of wonderful characters had me hooked from the first page to the last. The primary character (Rebecca Ravenshaw) is full of surprises as the beautiful sense of longing develops within all the converging story lines. Poetic metaphors, delightful insights into human nature and it's many conflicting emotions are woven throughout this first of three Daughters of Hampshire series by Sandra Byrd. The gorgeous languish of it has a 'Jane Eyre' feel---though utterly unique from the Charlotte Bronte story. I enjoyed Mist of Midnight completely, and highly recommend this inspiring wonderfully written book.

I really enjoyed this book. This was a devilishly spooky Gothic read complete with a smart heroine, a brooding hero, mysterious death and secrets set in Victorian England. The setting, the crumbling estate, is atmospheric and full of wonderful secondary characters. The death mystery and the attraction between Rebecca and Luke create great tension and so I was racing thru the pages because I wanted to find out the answer to the mystery and all the secrets. This book is the first in the series and I can't wait for the second book to come out

I must say, this is my favorite Sandra Byrd novel yet. The plot was refreshingly unique, the pace exhilarating, the dialogue perfect, and the characters decidedly true to life. I couldn't wait to read "Mist of Midnight" each night before going to bed, and like a box of chocolates, I could never resist reading just one chapter. It was such an addictive read, in fact, that I jokingly thought it should carry a warning label that it can cause insomnia if read too late at night! Joking aside, as for the Christian theme relevant to the era in which the story was told, I was impressed with how deftly Sandra addressed flaws inherent in 19th century mission work without detracting at all from the overall good that missionaries accomplished. An ideal blend of mystery, romance, history, drama and intrigue, I wouldn't hesitate to share this book with anyone. Even better, I would LOVE to see it made into a movie!

ended up reading this novel while on vacation at the beach. Hooray! It was fantastic in every way that a Gothic novel can be. This was such a page turner that I found myself staying up way past bedtime to read it. Isn't that the true mark of a great book? In the book Rebecca Ravenshaw returns from India to her homeland of England only to find that someone impersonated her in order to steal her inheritance. The pretender ended up dying before her arrival but Rebecca finds herself untangling webs of lies for months.

This was a fabulous read!  Delightfully rich, and full of mystery, suspense, and romance!  This captivating gothic love story kept me guessing until the end!  Every time I put this book down, I'd sneak back to read a few more pages.  Fabulous attention to details and descriptions of characters, places, and what a romance!  I lost myself in this enthralling tale! I love Sandra Byrd's historical fiction novels, but this one by far is my favorite yet!!  Great, great book, I am sad to see it end!!

The characters are easy to connect with in Byrd's lasts Historical read. It is not your same old historical read, it has some depth and a little twist you don't see in most books in this genre. Hint Hint it has to do with identity theft.
This was a good rainy day weekend read. You are sure to get wrapped up in it.
I gave this book 4 stars. I recommend this book for fans of Jane Eyre
I was given a copy of this book by Wynn Wynn Media for my honest review.

This is classic Victorian Gothic at its best. This story is haunting and completely engrossing. Along with Rebecca Ravenshaw, I was transported from India to Victorian England, where Rebecca is thrust into the care of Captain Luke Whitfield. Sandra Byrd is a master of layered storytelling that left me eagerly awaiting the next installment of this series.

Thank you to the publisher, Howard Books, who furnished an ARC of this book for my honest opinion, which this certainly is.

Captivating from paragraph one, Mist of Midnight had me seeing a couple midnights I had no intention of staying up for.

Written in a shrouded gothic tone, Mist of Midnight starts with the return of Rebecca Ravenshaw to her family estate. Now, this is a return that is already fragile as Rebecca is coming home from India where the rest of her family perished. She is a virtual stranger to England. When she arrives at her estate she discovers it occupied and that her arrival is met with suspicion. It seems that Rebecca Ravenshaw had already claimed the property and died a tragic not-to-be-talked about death. As days go on, Rebecca uncovers more puzzles and bizarre behaviors, even from the only one she begins to trust, Luke Whitfield, the man in line to inherit should Rebecca prove to be an imposter or show up dead.

Loved this. So dark and broody and outright creepy in places. My historical itch was fully scratched with the social shunning of Rebecca and the calculating folks who watched and waited for her to fail at her endeavor. The twists and turns in this tale offer up a great story in the process. If you love historicals and tense, rich writing with deep characterization you have to give this one a deeper look.

Mist of Midnight was an enjoyable read. The main characters, Rebecca and Luke were likable and had chemistry. The storyline was interesting and the story flowed nicely. I only wish there was more dialogue between Rebecca and Luke. Towards the middle of the book, it became a real page turner, and I had a difficult time putting this book down. I also liked the Scriptures throughout the book and how it pertained to Rebecca.

Sandra’s newest novel is one of those rare stories you won’t be able to rush through. Instead, I wanted to savor each chapter while sipping a cup of tea & getting better acquainted with my new “friend” Rebecca Ravenshaw. Only one other story has ever captured my attention in this unique fashion. What makes Rebecca so mesmerizing? She’s an English lady by birth but was brought up in Indian by her missionary parents. She’s ladylike yet also exotic, proper & unconventional, mourning but hopeful, witty & reserved, trusting yet wise, privileged but compassionate. The delightful layers of Rebecca’s personality revealed a depth of character every Christian woman should aspire to. Then there’s Captain Whitfield who I desperately longed to believe in, but along with Rebecca, wasn’t sure I should. Dashing yet dangerous, the story kept me guessing about this charming, handsome stranger who seemed wonderful but might also be a murderer. Then there's the delightful but curious Mrs. Ross who I adored! Sandra filled this Gothic romance with captivating characters, mystery, intrigue, rich historical details, & many heart-pounding scenes. My mind spun trying to figure out what really happened. Yet, Sandra’s expertise at weaving hints so subtly into the story kept me guessing. In the end, this master storyteller brings all the threads together to create a beautiful & soul-satisfying tapestry. I can’t wait for the next story in this new Daughters of Hampshire series.

Mist of Midnight is a fabulous book! I was captivated from the very first page. I enjoyed the mystery that surrounded the plot. Once the mystery was solved, I could not believe the twist. The characters are engaging, the setting was great, the plot was again fabulous.
I recommend this book and look froward to book 2 of the series.
5 stars.
I received this book from Howard Books in exchange for my honest opinion which was given.

I thoroughly enjoyed this novel! Sandra writes the most awesome stories and this is different from what she usually writes!
what I loved about it, the mystery and suspense! It was a page turner from the beginning to end!
I didn't want to write what the book was about so I went on how I felt about the book.
In some places of the book actually made the hairs stand up on the back of my neck
Usually also, I could figure out the mystery before I finished the book!
Sandra certainly kept me on my toes this time!
Thank you Sandra for a wonderful novel! I can't wait to read your next book!

Not what I expected, but well done. I enjoyed the "gothic mystery", the story kept me guessing and the history of missionary life in India was fascinating. I was going to give four stars but after reading the author's note at the end of the story, I liked it even more. Advanced copy courtesy of the publishers at Net Galley for review.

Mist of Midnight by Sandar Byrd is a mystery with just enough romance to make you sigh. I loved the idea of impersonation, how could one prove one's identity in Victorian England? The twists and turns of plot, where you never know for sure who is good and who is evil keeps one reading long after a normal bedtime. I also enjoyed the various romantic threads woven into the mystery. The only reason this was a 4-star novel instead of a 5- star novel for me was that it was first person.I am not fond of books written in the first person narrative. Otherwise, it was a truly delightful book.

I was given this book by the author for review purposes but was in no way required to leave a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

From the moment you open this book, until you read the last page, this book draws you in. The authors use of history, cultures, and romance paints such imagery that the last words come upon you fast! Unlike other books, the ending leaves you satisfied and fascinated. This is a story of trials, adventure, and love that is worth the read!

I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Victorian mystery/romance. Rebecca Ravenshaw attempts to reclaim her family home which, in her absence, has fallen into disrepair...and into the hands of a handsome but mysterious relative. Author Sandra Byrd weaves an intricate and satisfying plot full of intrigue, atmosphere, and romantic tension. I loved it, and I can't wait for more in this series!

Having survived the Indian mutiny of 1858 which killed her parents, Miss Rebecca Ravenshaw returns to her family home in England only to discover that the property has been awarded to a distant relative … and that she is the second Miss Rebecca Ravenshaw who has arrived to claim the property.

She comes to an agreement with Captain Whitfield, who generously allows her to stay in the house until her claim can be proved—or disproved. Rebecca knows who she is, so this leaves a mystery: who was the imposter, and how did she know so much about the Ravenshaw family that she was able to pass herself off as Rebecca. How did she die … and is Rebecca safe in this strange environment where she has no friends?

I liked Rebecca. Growing up as a missionary child in India meant she wasn’t as sheltered or naïve as many ladies, although she still managed to make a couple of errors of judgement (virtually compulsory for gothic romance). The story is written entirely in the first person, something I’m seeing more and more of in historical fiction. I know some readers don’t like first person, but I do, and Rebecca is a sufficiently strong character that she can carry the story.

My complaint with Mist of Midnight is an issue of basic theology (which, for Christian fiction, is a pretty big complaint). Romans 5:8 (NIV) says:
“While we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.”
God didn’t wait for us to repent and confess our sins in order to forgive us: He died first, in the hope we would repent and ask for forgiveness. This is also illustrated by Jesus when He tells the story of the Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11-32), where the father forgives the son before the son repents and asks forgiveness.

Yet in Mist of Midnight, Rebecca says, “Scripture requires repentance before forgiveness can be offered.” I disagree, and while this doesn’t affect the story and didn’t affect my enjoyment of the story (which I enjoyed a lot), it misrepresents the gospel in a way that would make me uncomfortable recommending this book, especially to a non-Christian.

Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for providing a free ebook for review.

Jane Austen and Daphne du Maurier walk into a bar... No, not really...

A gothic romance novel with a mysterious twist, set in the early Victorian era.

Our heroine comes back home to England from India, where she grew up as the daughter of missionaries. Her house has been taken over by someone else and her identity ursurped by an imposter, who has died in the meantime.

Who was the imposter, how did she truly die, what is the involvement of the man who has taken over her house? Servants that mistrust her, town people that don't believe her, locked doors and other strange happenings set the scene.

Sounds like a story with a fair bit of tension and suspense. But the plot ambled along at a sedate pace and I kept wanting to push the insecure and naive heroine along to do something and get a grip on the situation.

The story was interesting enough to keep me going, but especially around the middle there was a serious lull.

The love interest stayed fairly one-dimensional, as did most side characters.

The story only really picked up for me in the last third of the book. I wish the first two-thirds of the book had been as lively and animated as that last third. Here the characters actually started to become people that I could connect with and there was a a story that I cared about.

The plot is pretty good and the book is well written, but it could have done with more... not sure what, exactly. Just more. More heart-felt emotion, characters with more depth, a bit more drama and angst.

I liked the book well enough and I would maybe even get the next book in the series, if the blurb sounded interesting.

Free advance reading copy, in exchange for a review, thank you very much!

Mist of Midnight tastefully marries English missionary history with Gothic fiction.

Miss Rebecca Ravenshaw, daughter of independently wealthy missionaries to South India, returns to England after the death of her family to learn a young woman claimed her family estate a year earlier, then died of mysterious causes. As Rebecca seeks to prove her identity, her heart is drawn to dashing Captain Luke Whitfield, a distant relative in line to inherit her family's home. But can she trust him? The death of her impersonator and claim on her family estate not only make him suspect of foul play, but even his relations question his integrity.

Yet, “nothing is as it seems,” Rebecca is reminded by an inner voice. And for the skeptic of Gothic romance, the same voice cautions: "You can’t judge a book by its cover," or in this case, by its genre.

Sandra expertly constructs her gothic tale, while rewarding the reader with rich history of English life in the 1800s and with endearing vignettes of missionary life in India, complete with its foreign ways and heartwarming relationships.

Like other historical fiction written by Sandra, she tells the “what if” story adjacent to the popular account. "What if” missionaries had a daughter and she was left without means for her care and security? How would she survive? How would the 1800s English system treat her return? But Sandra's book is more than historical fiction, it’s about faith. For the missionary's daughter, life goes on after her parents’ great sacrifice, and so does God’s faithfulness to each new generation.

If you've read her Tudor series—To Die for, Roses Have Thorns, and The Secret Keeper—you'll love Mist of Midnight.

Having read and enjoyed Sandra Byrd's French Twist series, the genre of this book was totally different but equally as enjoyable to read! The whole book is written so beautifully that I found myself wanting to read the "conversations" between characters out loud! Full of suspense, lovely "scenery" and details of the customs and dress of that time, the book to me is a classical masterpiece in the same category as "Wurthering Heights" and "Jane Eyre." Each character is so fully developed that you are eager to understand the reason why they are the way they are, rather good or bad; and Sandra goes into great detail to answer every question. Fans of Jane Austen and the Bronte sisters will definitely love this book! The Author's notes at the end of the book are very interesting also; very informative of the origins of some the characters and facts about the subject the book is based upon. I LOVED the book and am looking forward to reading the 2nd book in the series "Bride of a Distant Isle.

Sandra Byrd masterfully weaves a Gothic tale of romance and suspicion. Her characters are superb. I was fully immersed in the story from beginning to end. I am looking forward to reading more of Sandra Byrd's stories. I highly recommend Mist of Midnight.

Thank you Sandra Byrd for giving me a free Kindle copy in exchange for my honest review.

In another wonderfully nuanced Victorian-era mystery, Sandra Byrd brings us the story of Rebecca Ravenshaw, a daughter of missionaries slain in the Indian Mutiny. Saved by a kind Indian servant, Rebecca survives to return to England and claim her inheritance. She is shocked to find that someone has already returned to England claiming to be her and taking up her inheritance, only to die under mysterious circumstances that most believe covers a murder. The imposter’s Indian servant has disappeared, adding fuel to the mystery.

Rebecca finds herself insulted, belittled, and ignored by the gentry and servants alike as they assume that she is the imposter. Can she prove her identity? Will she survive to take up her inheritance? Or does death await and her inheritance lie spent?

Adding to the story is the kind behavior of the current resident and inheritor of Rebecca’s estate, Captain Luke Whitfield, who needs her property to meet his own agenda. But Captain Whitfield is the person who hurriedly buried the false Rebecca at midnight and who keeps the room where she died locked and its contents and story hidden.

Many are not who they seem and Rebecca must decide who to trust and what to risk as she strives to prove her own identity and keep her own corpse from joining that of the false heiress.

Mist of Midnight is another wonderful Victorian romance/mystery by Sandra Byrd wrapped around snippets of India’s history with Britain, Rebecca is a strong female character more than able to stand on her own as she navigates the perilous web of society and class while investigating the mystery of her predecessor’s murder. The character- and world-building are believable and immersive, and I love the language is suitable for the period without being a bother or descending into modern vernacular. The story is a nice match for the period with just enough reflection and action to keep it well-paced and a mystery that is suitably mysterious unraveling through the pages until the last thread is tied off.

While Rebecca lives by her Christian faith and it is an integral part of the story, what I love about these Daughters of Hampshire books is that Byrd weaves each woman’s religion and belief in God into the story so tactfully and unobtrusively that it’s pleasing and matches the character, rather than blasting the reader. I am greatly annoyed and quickly discard books where religion and scripture are a disruptive and annoying intrusion slamming the reader about the head, rather than an integral part of a character’s life. It’s even worse if the overt religion does not match the moral fiber and actions of the character. There is no chance of that here. Byrd has such a deft touch with Christianity that it is both more believable and integral to the heroine’s character. The whole Christian element is done with such finesse and tact that I think even non-believers will find it consistent with the characters, true to the actors’ era, and not “preaching” or in-your-face offensive. A very fun aspect of each heroine’s faith is the Touched by an Angel element in each book.

Highly recommended for those who enjoy historical, Victorian, or Regency romances, clean romance, gothic novels, skillful mysteries, and nuanced storytelling.