A review by rbharath
The Midnight Man by Caroline Mitchell

mysterious relaxing medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.0

This is an ideal book to relax with. 

1994, Slayton Town, the Middletons have moved into Blackhall Manor. One night Susan hears gunshots at home. Her mother asks her to hide in the wardrobe. She hears her mother’s anguished voice say “Not my little girl”. Many shots are fired and Susan realises with horror that most of her family – brother Robin and mother are probably dead. She hears her dad’s voice and a shot is also fired through the wardrobe door. The police arrives and Susan is moved to hospital in a critical condition. The verdict – her dad shot the entire family and then turned the gun on himself. Susan is in coma for a long time before making a recovery. 

2019, Sarah is in the police force but has been on leave for a year for mental health reasons after being in trauma following her husband David’s death. The rest of the force is not welcoming of her joining back. Four girls play a game at the Blackhall Manor, which is unoccupied and maintained by an agency. One of the girls – Angelica is found dead. Sarah gets drawn into the case, bringing back nightmares of the past. She also receives a mocking letter. There seems to be a link to events of the past. 

 

The story keeps up the tension right till the end. There are several characters – all unique & well developed, which keeps you guessing on who the murderer could be. The descriptions of Blackhall Manor are good – conjuring a spooky feel. The tie-in with the past is good. I found the track with respect to Susan’s husband David to be poorly written and distracting. The motivation for the murders & revelation of the culprit has a touch of sensationalism. 

 

A great entertainer!