Greetings, creatives!
I’m excited to share my thoughts in a book review on A Hush at Midnight, author Marlene Bell’s latest novel and a mystery!
Just a few days ago, Marlene joined me here on the blog for an interview, and I was fascinated to learn how her life and experiences added depth to the characters and settings in this book. If you haven’t seen our conversation yet, it’s worth a read—her insights add a new perspective, especially on the novel’s sensory-rich descriptions and complex characters.
"The setting feels almost like a character in its own right, with Bell’s artist’s eye capturing the details and atmosphere of small-town Texas. "
Set in the richly described East Texas, A Hush at Midnight pulls readers into the world of Laura Harris, a chef-turned-sleuth whose pursuit of answers in her mentor’s murder uncovers dark secrets.
The setting feels almost like a character in its own right, with Bell’s artist’s eye capturing the details and atmosphere of small-town Texas. You can tell the author has a deep connection to this place, which brings authenticity and texture to the story, enhancing its suspenseful undertones.
Bell weaves in these threads with skill, creating a layered story that has a bit of everything: suspense, romance, and family dynamics. Each of these elements is thoughtfully handled, adding richness and depth without ever feeling overwhelming.
Laura’s life is filled with complexity and connection, from her family ties to her budding romance with the estate lawyer, who supports her as she navigates this dangerous investigation. This relationship adds a warm layer to the story, balancing the darker aspects with a touch of romance. And, of course, for animal lovers, Laura’s loyal corgi, Moonie, brings lighthearted moments to the narrative.
"Laura’s life is filled with complexity and connection, from her family ties to her budding romance with the estate lawyer, who supports her as she navigates this dangerous investigation."
One of the quieter yet compelling aspects of Laura’s life is her close relationship with her father. Following her mother’s recent passing, Laura feels compelled to stay close to him, grounding her in the area even as she’s pulled into the dangerous mystery surrounding her mentor’s death. This family connection adds a relatable layer to Laura’s character, showing the strength she draws from her father’s presence as she navigates her life in Texas.
Another interesting element is the dynamic between Laura and the other characters, especially her mentor, Hattie, the other women in the book (and there are a few!), and her ex, Lucas. Lucas isn’t the “villain” of the story per se, but he introduces a tension that adds complexity to Laura’s life (and the story!). All of the characters bring color to the narrative and add layers to the unfolding mystery.
While at its core, this is a murder mystery, A Hush at Midnight also explores themes of privilege and inheritance. Laura’s decision about what to do with the legacy her mentor left her is both satisfying and thought-provoking, a satisfying and though-provoking way to bring things together in the end.
"A Hush at Midnight is a cozy yet suspenseful read that’s perfect for fans of character-driven mysteries."
Overall, A Hush at Midnight is a cozy yet suspenseful read that’s perfect for fans of character-driven mysteries. If you enjoy a story with layers, atmosphere, and a dash of romance, this one may be just what you’re looking for!
You can purchase a copy of Marlene Bell's A Hush at Midnight on Amazon or BookBub. And be sure to add A Hush at Midnight to your GoodReads reading list!
Have a book you think I should read and review? Let me know! It might be the next title featured on my blog!
Happy reading and writing!
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