Mystery lovers, get ready to dive into a thrilling and suspenseful masterpiece! "A Hush at Midnight" by Marlene M. Bell is a gripping whodunit that will keep you glued to its pages from start to finish. With its rich characters, dark twists, and vivid Texas setting, this adult mystery novel (18+) is a must-read for fans of suspenseful fiction. Published by Ewephoric Publishing and sponsored by iRead Book Tours, this October 2024 release introduces us to Laura Harris, a celebrity chef thrust into a deadly mystery after the shocking murder of her mentor.
Plus, there’s more to enjoy beyond the book! Be sure to check out the author’s guest post, "The Advantages of Writing in Multiple Genres," where Marlene shares insightful advice for writers considering exploring new literary territory. It’s a must-read for anyone curious about branching out into different genres!
Also, iRead Book Tours and author Marlene M. Bell are hosting a fantastic giveaway—don’t miss your chance to win a copy of this captivating mystery!
The Advantages of Writing in Multiple Genres
A HUSH AT MIDNIGHT – Marlene M. Bell
When I first began to publish, I had no idea how intricate and complicated the process would be to develop a professional product in print. Our 4H club had asked me to write a little book on how to raise sheep—which I eventually did over a two-year period. At that time, I wrote for families and people who knew us in the club. Friends and family are forgiving and supportive, and they gave me a false sense of security about my abilities to explain what I’d learned over twenty years with sheep. Writing is easy and so much fun! I say that now as I’m laughing…
The sheep book and my love of sheep was a joy to write, I’ll admit. A primer to learn the art of writing fiction—it was not. My book adviser through Book Surge, (Amazon’s publishing company at the time,) expressed surprise at my switch from non-fiction to genre fiction. Actually, he was shocked. His reaction seemed odd to me at the time.
It wasn’t until I waded deep into the fiction process, that I understood my advisor’s gasp on the other end of the phone. The literary pool I’d fallen into had water way over my head. The research and years of looking into the various genres was arduous, and the harsh critiques I’d received from literary agents in online bootcamps were brutal to my self-esteem. Writing is hard. It’s that simple. Writing fiction takes a certain knack and the ability to create endlessly. All the while, following rules authors are expected to follow for their readers depending upon the genre.
Ten years later, in 2018, Stolen Obsession came out in paperback. What a proud moment for me. Finally, I had a finished my first novel, one that had morphed from a single volume into a carefully planned series. The Annalisse adventures I write about include an antique-loving amateur sleuth who can’t seem to keep herself out of mischief and killers who want to do the couple harm. The books cross into different countries and subtly slide into various genres. The cross-genres happened accidentally—but situations emerge for a reason.
Writing the first four books in the Annalisse series has taken me from romantic suspense, thriller, and suspense, to romantic mystery. Mostly in international settings. Having a couple begin their dating experience while traveling exotic lands takes readers to places most of us won’t ever visit in a lifetime. By writing in different genres with characters who’ve become friends to my readers has given me the freedom to explore each genre without learning new main character backgrounds—while keeping the focus on the protagonist and her love interest, Alec Zavos. Should I decide to begin a new series with the detective from my original books, I will already have experience with what readers expect in each new category and theme of work. Some readers want to hear more from Annalisse and Alec’s detective friend, Bill Drake!
I wrote the children’s book, Mia and Nattie: One Great Team in 2020 after we lost the sheep that had become part of our family. The story is based on true events and learning experiences we had with the only bottle lamb my husband and I ever raised in the laundry room. They were heartwarming experiences I felt needed exploring in the public square. A picture book for children to teach the heartfelt life-lessons we had with Natalie, our horned Dorset ewe.
Thank you Madelen for this wonderful advice, be sure to check out her book "A Hush at Midnight" and my review below. There is also a giveaway!
What Makes "A Hush at Midnight" Stand Out?
🌟 A Riveting Plot
The story starts with a bang—literally, with the discovery of a gruesome murder—and doesn’t let up. Laura’s pursuit of the truth is gripping, with chilling threats, hidden motives, and breadcrumb clues that will keep readers on the edge of their seats.
🌟 Complex Characters
Laura Harris is a wonderfully fleshed-out protagonist. She’s strong, determined, and deeply relatable as she grapples with her grief and the overwhelming danger she faces. The supporting cast adds depth and intrigue, with suspects that are as enigmatic as they are suspicious.
🌟 Atmospheric Setting
The small Texas town of Stenburg is brought to life with Marlene M. Bell’s descriptive writing. From the sprawling estates to the ominous crime scenes, the setting adds a haunting layer to the story.
Why I Loved This Book
Unputdownable Mystery: I was hooked from the first page! The suspenseful pacing and intricate clues made this book impossible to put down.
Twists and Turns: Just when I thought I had it figured out, Bell delivered another surprise. Every twist felt earned and added to the excitement.
Strong Protagonist: Laura’s journey from grief to resolve was inspiring, and I found myself rooting for her every step of the way.
Emotional Impact: Beyond the thrills, the book explores themes of loss, trust, and resilience in a way that resonated deeply.
My Only Complaint?
It ended too soon! I devoured this book in a week, and I’m already wishing there was a sequel.
Final Verdict
If you’re a fan of atmospheric mysteries with strong heroines, chilling twists, and vivid storytelling, A Hush at Midnight is for you. I can’t recommend this book enough—it’s a solid 5/5 stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐.
Marlene M. Bell has crafted a thrilling tale that will leave you breathless and eagerly awaiting her next novel.
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