Can one develop feelings for the man you swore to see hanged? That’s just what Rebecca fears she has done in this Gothic Regency romance. After her brother’s mysterious death, Rebecca Hunter vows to expose the man she believes responsible: Mr. Lewis Browning—known by the locals as the Midnight Devil and by Rebecca as her new guardian.Summoned to his reclusive country estate to await her London … his reclusive country estate to await her London season, Rebecca plans her own secret investigation among the darkened corridors of the mysterious Greybourne Hall. Yet Lewis Browning is not as she once imagined, and his motivation is horribly unclear. Recurrent nightmares and Rebecca’s restless feelings are further complicated by the shadow of her mother’s prior descent into madness and wondering if she, too, will follow the same heartbreaking path.
Even as midnight rides, strange injuries, and further murders lead back to Mr. Browning, Rebecca can’t ignore the subtle turn of her heart. Has she fallen for the man she swore would pay for her brother’s death? And moreover, can she trust him with her uncertain future?
Praise for Abigail Wilson
“A wonderfully suspicious cast of characters, intriguing clues, and lush backdrop that readers can easily get lost in.” —Historical Novels Review of Midnight on the River Grey
“In the Shadow of Croft Towers is everything I love in a novel: a classic gothic feel, a regency setting, a mysterious hero . . . and secrets abounding!” —Dawn Crandall, award-winning author of the Everstone Chronicles series
“Enough jaw-dropping plot twists to give readers whiplash.” —Hope by the Book, Bookmarked review of In the Shadow of Croft Towers
“Shades of Gothic romance in a portrait of Regency England . . . if Jane Austen ever met Jane Eyre, it would be at Croft Towers!” —Kristy Cambron, author of Castle on the Rise, of In the Shadow of Croft Towers
“Blending the unputdownable Regency flair of Georgette Heyer with the intricate plotting of Julie Klassen, Wilson not only places herself competently amidst beloved authors but carves out a unique place of her own.” —Rachel McMillan, author of the Van Buren and DeLuca Mysteries
“Beautifully written, suspenseful, and satisfyingly romantic.” —Jennifer Beckstrand, author of Home on Huckleberry Hill
This sweet Regency romance is a standalone novel. Book length: approximately 90,000 words. Includes a reading group guide.
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Abigail Wilson has solidified her spot as one of my top-10, must-read, favorite storytellers. Her books are excellent. They are captivating and highly engaging. They are the stories you read well past bedtime. Midnight on the River Grey, Ms. Wilson’s second novel, is no exception. This book is SO good! If you are a fan of Regency and/or Gothic literature, you have to read this book. Ms. Wilson has taken all of the facets of both genres and beautifully weaved them into a unique, new story that 100% kept me up well into the night. The characters are very well written. Each has relatable qualities and motivations that lure the reader into a sense of security, but there is also superb tension that makes the reader feel that characters are definitely not who they seem. I loved this aspect as it kept me on my toes constantly. In addition, the romance is well written and develops realistically over the course of the story. I cheered for Rebecca and Lewis the whole time. All in all, Midnight on the River Grey is a must-read novel that I highly recommend.
There is so much to love about Midnight on the River Grey. The Gothic characteristics alone make this novel one of the funnest books I’ve read this year. There’s a dark, spooky castle, a decrepit dower house, a creepy bridge, storms, madness, and mystery. It’s glorious! But my most favorite aspect to this novel is the relationship between Rebecca and Lewis. Actually, my favorite thing is how Lewis sees Rebecca for who she really is. I also love the moment when Rebecca realizes that out of every relationship she’s ever had — her parents, her brother, her aunt, etc. — Lewis is the first and only relationship where she is an equal and she is loved because she is Rebecca, warts and all. Those of you who follow my blog know that the swooniest thing a hero can do is really see his heroine. Being seen for who you are and loved anyway is a true gift, and Ms. Wilson writes the relationship between Rebecca and Lewis spectacularly.
Midnight on the River Grey is a wonderful novel. I’m so, so glad that I took the opportunity to escape into this fantastic story. If you are a fan of well-written, highly engaging stories, Regency Romances, and/or Gothic literature then Midnight on the River Grey is the novel for you.
I purchased a review copy of this novel in paperback from Baker Book House in June 2020 in order to review. In no way has this influenced my review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.
As a longtime fan of Gothic novels, I have been pleased to see several Christian authors begin to offer books in that genre. I’m not certain why I find those dark and mysterious books so intriguing but I do love them. Abigail Wilson is a fairly new author whose two books I’ve read fit into that genre very well.
Midnight on the River Grey features young Rebecca Hunter whose brother died under mysterious circumstances. Forced to live with her guardian, Lewis Browning who she believes is responsible for the death, Rebecca is determined to prove his guilt. As most readers know, things are not always as they seem and Rebecca may have a difficult finding the proof she needs. And is it possible that she may change her feelings toward her guardian?
I enjoyed this book immensely with its dark and brooding atmosphere, danger and secrets around every corner, and Rebecca’s own personal fears. The romance was not unexpected but welcome all the same. All-in-all this book was a satisfying experience and I would definitely read more by this author.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by Amazon Vine. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.
I absolutely loved this story by Abigail Wilson! If you love Gothic romances similar to what author Victoria Holt wrote then you definitely don’t want to miss reading Midnight on the River Grey. Abigail Wilson gives you plenty of murder and mystery along with romance and love that will delight you for hours while reading this wonderful story.
Rebecca Hunter is summoned to Greybourne Hall after her brother dies under mysterious circumstances, but when she gets there she doesn’t know who to trust. She soon finds out that the only one she can trust is Mr. Lewis Browning known as the Midnight Devil to the locals.
I’m looking forward to reading more wonderful stories by this author in the future.
I was given an ARC from the author/publisher. All conclusions are mine and mine alone.
Another engaging regency romance from Abigail Wilson. I loved the slightly gothic feel of the story. The setting is almost a character in and of itself. I really enjoyed envisioning Graythorne Hall and its surroundings. Rebecca Hunter’s family has all passed away and she and her aunt must go live with her guardian. Lewis Browning’s reputation is in dire straights when two deaths, one being Rebecca’s brother, occur within 9 months on his property. The townspeople think he’s had something to do with them, so they steer clear. When Rebecca moves in, she’s convinced that her brothers death wasn’t accidental, but she needs help to discover what truly happened. This story line is engaging and quite enjoyable! I’m looking forward to seeing what Ms. Wilson brings us next!
I received a copy of this story through NetGalley and the publisher. A positive review was not required. All opinions expressed are my own.
This is my first time to read an Abigail Wilson book. I liked her writing style and the plot a lot. She has a way of describing scenes that makes you feel as though you are there. She describes the old house in a way that you can feel how creepy it is. Also when the main character, Rebecca, is walking into a dangerous situation you just want to get her by the arm and drag her away. The isweet romance between her and her guardian, Lewis is done in good taste and doesn’t just take over the story. I love a good Regency Era book and this one is filled with mystery and a surprise ending. I recommend it highly. This was a complimentary copy from the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.
She can’t trust anyone….or can she trust him?
I’ve been interested in this author since her debut novel came out awhile back. I really liked the idea of merging Regency era historical romance with romantic suspense. When I saw the blurb for this book, Midnight On The River Grey, I was even more intrigued.
Needless to say, Abigail Wilson more than exceeded my expectations with this book. Midnight On The River Grey reads less like a second book and more like a tenth or…. Not every author can pull off a first person narrative but but Abigail Wilson did so with true skill. I was totally involved with Rebecca’s story, from her painful past to her precarious present to her potentially tragic future.
I loved the wonderfully chilling Gothic overtones to the mystery/suspense. You just can’t beat reading about dark passages, family betrayal, midnight riders, mysterious murders, shadowed by madness. You can’t beat it, especially on a dark night, all alone in the living room with only a single light on…
(I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are entirely my own.)
I’ve come to love stories set in Jane Austen time period England, and this book is a great addition to that genre. The story is told in first person and has a gothic feel to it thanks to the large estate and crumbling mansion. The heroine is determined to find justice, and the hero is misunderstood and appealing. A great combination of characters, plot, and setting. Warning: this book is haunting and the heroine will pull you deeply into her world. I was immediately sucked in and struggled to leave until the story ended.
Another stellar read from Abigail Wilson! Written from first person perspective of main character Rebecca, the book has intrigue and danger of 1811 England shrouded in foreboding, chill-inducing Gothic-like mystery, deliciously crisp and witty dialogue, deeply layered and rich characters, a sweet and tender romance, and a plot that twists and turns to make it an incredible historical romantic suspense. From the prologue, Rebecca’s plight will draw you into her heart and thoughts and this bold, loyal, outspoken, intelligent, determined young woman will captivate you as she grows and matures despite the secrecy surrounding her new home at Greybourne Hall and her painful past.
Rebecca, having survived her parents’ and her beloved brother’s deaths, has no choice but to move to her guardian’s estate of Greybourne Hall with her widowed aunt. She’s determined to find out the exact circumstances of her brother’s death near Greybourne Hall. Her guardian, Lewis Browning, is young, handsome, and charitable though quite stand-offish at first and has many secrets that begin to unfold page by page. As each secret and puzzle piece to the masterful plot is revealed, you’ll be mesmerized and will likely finish the book in one sitting like I did.
I received a copy of the book from Thomas Nelson via Celebrate Lit Tours and was under no obligation to post a positive review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.
Wilson has skillfully created an atmosphere in which mystery thrives. I immediately liked her heroine and enjoyed her journey to discover who she could truly trust. The developing romance grabbed my heart’s attention as I wanted her to make the right choice. As the mystery unfolded, I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough. The added touches of humor were perfectly timed and only added to this engrossing tale. I am certainly glad that I discovered this new author and I am looking forward to reading more of her work! I was given a copy of this book by the publisher. All opinions are my own.
I find it nearly impossible to start a book by Abigail Wilson and NOT finish it the same day. I love her mixture of mystery, romance, and gothic intrigue. Her stories are always super clean (nothing more than a passionate kiss or two), and the twisting, unpredictable plots keep me on the edge of my seat. Just enough danger and suspense, but no graphic violence or anything else to make me uncomfortable. If you enjoy historical romance that’s a bit less “fluffy” and bit more gritty/real/suspenseful, you should definitely try one of her books!
I’m happy to have discovered this author. It’s a nice bit of escape. I’m not usually much of a mystery & suspense reader but I will keep coming back to read her stories. I think she does these both well. I thought the book intriguing and kept me hooked. I thought the twist and wrap up of the plot at the end was nice & I didn’t see it coming. I liked the epilogue & thought it wrapped things up well. A couple of characters I felt were not really explored well so it left me a little confused. The cousin Ellen seemed thrown in. I would have liked to a bit more of the neighbor the h was trying to be married off to.
I’ve enjoyed other books by this author, but this one is my favorite. I confess, I swallowed it whole. I love nothing more than a clean regency with just the right amount of mystery and a romance that grows organically. Looking forward to her next release!
I don’t know when I have enjoyed reading a novel more! Abigail Wilson is a new author find for me and she will be on TBR pile from now on. Really loved this book. Enjoyed the banter and push/pull relationship of the main characters from start to finish. —Lisa Carter, author of Under a Turquoise Sky
Clean gothic romance with a murder mystery as well. Very good narration on the audiobook! Interesting characters, great romance, and a very intriguing mystery.
Midnight on the River Grey by Abigail Wilson is a gothic tale set in England in 1811. It is full of mystery and intrigue and tracks movements of spies in and around Greybourne Hall in the countryside.
Rebecca Hunter, ward of Mr. Lewis Browning, has learned of her brother’s demise and must depart London with her Aunt Jo for her guardian’s country estate.
Just what happened at midnight on the bridge over the River Grey? Rebecca means to find a clue to her brother’s death. The house and it’s inhabitants hold many secrets. Is her guardian who he seems?
This is a first class mystery in a dark time in England’s history, deliciously told by a relatively new voice from a Christian World View. The faith thread is very subtle but the themes of good versus evil and forgiveness are there. Ms. Wilson has a good grasp of the time period, customs and romance surrounding the events during Napoleon’s era.
I recommend this book to fans of clean historical mysteries.
*I won this book in a contest. All opinions are my own.*
I was at the edge of my seat with this story. A real page-turner. I loved how the author kept it real and wove many aspects of life into her life. Follow this author. You won’t be sorry you did.
Having heard wonderful things about Wilson’s debut novel, I, of course, leaped at the chance to nab a copy of Midnight on the River Grey. And I’m so glad I did! From page one, this book drew me right into the story and I did not want to put it down.
Wilson has a beautiful writing style that fits the time period so perfectly and drew me right into the story. Everything down to the characters’ dialogue is so perfectly accurate, although there were a few instances of dialogue that I felt were too modern. The plot was intriguing and kept me on my toes, guessing as to how the story would end. Although I did surmise the ending ahead of time, that didn’t take away from the enjoyment of the story for me.
I loved each of the characters as well, but I have to say, they felt rather flat to me. I feel like more depth could have been added and made the story that much better. While they were good characters, and I enjoyed their story, they could have been better characters with a little more fleshing out.
All in all, I very much enjoyed this intriguing Regency novel and look forward to reading more by this talented author! If this is only her second book and it’s already this good, I look forward to reading even more excellent works! I highly recommend checking this book out! You won’t regret it.
FTC Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley. A positive review was not required. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.
In her sophomore book, Abigail Wilson continues to be a force to be reckoned with. I love the gothic feel to her Regency Romance and how it keeps you on the edge of your seat quickly turning pages. Her books show originality and have a lyrical tone that keeps the pace moving. Darkened hallways, a vast estate, candles, midnight riders, and a hero that you can imagine making your heart beat faster all cumulate for an incredible read. Trying to figure out who she can trust and the mysterious happenings, Rebecca Hunter shows great strength and bravery. She is curious, determined, and great at putting pieces together to form the big picture. I definitely recommend putting this on your must read list.
I won a copy of this book and am so thankful I did. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.
Abigail Wilson is a fresh voice in the historical romance genre and I enjoyed every minute reading Midnight on the River Grey. With a style reflective of the gothic romances of Victoria Holt and the Regency romances of Georgette Heyer, the author has captured the atmospheric feel of the era. Just picture Rebecca’s first sighting of Greybourne Hall, the country estate of Lewis Browning …
Years of history and neglect had left a steady hush throughout Greybourne Hall. Almost as if the soul of the house had left it long ago and what remained was a hollow shell.
Rebecca is a strong and spunky heroine who reluctantly agrees to move to Greybourne Hall. Believing that Lewis is responsible for her brother’s death, she also realizes that this move presents her with the opportunity to learn more about the events leading up to his death. But in a story where nothing is quite as it seems, Rebecca struggles with the difference between the Lewis she believes him to be and the Lewis she encounters daily. There’s great chemistry between these two and I loved the way their relationship builds. Lewis has become one of my favorite fictional heroes.
The author also knows how to deliver on the unexpected. Twists and turns abound. Rebecca is determined not to marry because of her mother’s mental illness, but is there something she doesn’t know about its cause? And is the brother she lovingly remembers from childhood all that she thought he was? I loved how things are slowly revealed in this fast-paced page turner as Lewis and Rebecca grow closer. Two secondary characters also add much richness – Rebecca’s Aunt Jo and an English springer spaniel named Sophie.
I greatly enjoyed Midnight on the River Grey and look forward to more stories from the pen of Abigail Wilson.
Recommended.
I received a copy of this book through Celebrate Lit. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
I could not put this book down. From the setting, the descriptions and the eery feelings, to the subtly written love story, the mystery, and the unexpected surprises, Abigail Wilson has proven she is a force to be reckoned with in the historical fiction world. I had to keep reminding myself that this is only her second novel – that’s how good she writes! You are immediately sucked into not only the story line, but the setting itself. Wilson immerses you in the thick of it, and it almost feels like you’ve stepped in a time machine. Each scene vividly plays out in your mind. There are a few that will make the hairs on your arm stand, and yet they are not written so gory that you have to skip over it. I can’t even describe it – it’s just really good!
I think the thing that intrigued me most about this book was Lewis Browning’s character. Was he a bad guy? Was he a good guy? Who was he? The whole story I tried answering these questions, and little by little Wilson gives you the pieces you are looking for to answer them. There was such mystery behind him – which I love in a hero by the way. I was slightly intimidated by him at first, but as I kept reading and the pages kept turning, I found myself enjoying his character so much. You certainly cannot judge a book (or character) by it’s cover, as was the case in Browning.
I found Rebecca to be fun to read too. She was head strong, and didn’t appear to be afraid of putting herself out there in the middle of the mystery. She wanted to find answers, no matter the cost. I kind of can see a little of myself in her. I think I’d be willing to just go out there and search for clues too, although not at night in the dark. I mean, let’s be serious ;). I loved the fact that she didn’t just automatically swoon over Browning. Kudos to Wilson because I expected it and it didn’t happen. Instead she really took the time to get to know him, as much as she could anyways – kind of hard to do when he’s never around.
You find all the answers you’re looking for by the time you reach the end, and yet I still found myself wanting more. This is one of those books that you don’t want to end because you have been so involved with the characters that you’re not quite ready to say goodbye. Even so, I had a smile on my face, sighed a big sigh, and put it on my bookshelf to read again in the future when I’m feeling a bit nostalgic. I cannot wait to see what Ms. Wilson brings us next!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.