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The Midnight Stars Saga #2
When Stars Rise at Midnight: The Midnight Stars Saga, Book 2
Falling in love was the last thing they wanted. Can they resist their feelings to protect the ones they care about?
Estelle
After the trauma of my family’s abandonment and the forced adoption of my baby, I find solace in New York City, living in a fine apartment, thanks to my benefactor, Percival Bancroft. He asks for nothing in return except for one thing—dinner once a week. All would be well if it weren’t for my growing feelings for the kind man who rescued me from a life on the streets. He is not mine to love, as he belongs to another.
Percival
This is not the life I wanted, but it’s the one I have, and I must make the best of it. Thankfully, I have Estelle safely tucked away in an apartment in the city. If only I hadn’t fallen in love with her, all would be well. With my wife committed to an insane asylum with no hope of recovery, there is no chance for love in my life.
Listen to part two of USA Today bestselling author Tess Thompson’s Midnight Stars Saga, a clean and wholesome American historical romance, for this rags-to-riches tale of forbidden love.
Estelle
After the trauma of my family’s abandonment and the forced adoption of my baby, I find solace in New York City, living in a fine apartment, thanks to my benefactor, Percival Bancroft. He asks for nothing in return except for one thing—dinner once a week. All would be well if it weren’t for my growing feelings for the kind man who rescued me from a life on the streets. He is not mine to love, as he belongs to another.
Percival
This is not the life I wanted, but it’s the one I have, and I must make the best of it. Thankfully, I have Estelle safely tucked away in an apartment in the city. If only I hadn’t fallen in love with her, all would be well. With my wife committed to an insane asylum with no hope of recovery, there is no chance for love in my life.
Listen to part two of USA Today bestselling author Tess Thompson’s Midnight Stars Saga, a clean and wholesome American historical romance, for this rags-to-riches tale of forbidden love.
- GenresHistorical Fiction
Audible Audio
First published August 28, 2024
200 people are currently reading
64 people want to read
About the author
Tess Thompson
110 books1,735 followersTess Thompson Romance...hometowns and heartstrings.
Tess Thompson is the USA Today Bestselling and award-winning author of contemporary and historical Romantic Women’s Fiction with over 60 published titles. When asked to describe her books, she could never figure out what to say that would perfectly sum them up until she landed on, Hometowns and Heartstrings.
She’s married to her prince, Best Husband Ever, and is the mother of their blended family of four kids and five cats. Best Husband Ever is seventeen months younger, which qualifies Tess as a Cougar, a title she wears proudly. Her Bonus Sons are young adults with pretty hair and big brains like their dad. Daughters, better known as Princess One and Two, are teenagers who make their mama proud because they’re kind. They’re also smart, but a mother shouldn’t brag.
Tess loves lazy afternoons watching football, hanging out on the back patio with Best Husband Ever, reading in bed, binge-watching television series, red wine, strong coffee and walks on crisp autumn days. She laughs a little too loudly, never knows what to make for dinner, looks ridiculous kickboxing in an attempt to combat her muffin top, and always complains about the
rain even though she chose to live in Seattle.
She’s proud to have grown up in a small town like the ones in her novels. After graduating from the University of Southern California Drama School, she had hopes of becoming an actress but was called instead to writing fiction. She’s grateful to spend most days in her office matchmaking her characters while her favorite cat Mittens (shhh…don’t tell the others) sleeps on the desk.
She adores hearing from readers, so don’t hesitate to say hello or sign up for her newsletter:
http://tesswrites.com/. You’ll receive an ebook copy of her novella, The Santa Trial, for your
efforts.
Much to her father’s horror, you can find her everywhere on social media.
BookBub: http://bit.ly/2esOcrn
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorTessTh...
Goodreads: http://bit.ly/2vClTfX
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/tesswrites
Twitter: https://twitter.com/tesswrites
Instagram: https://instagram.com/tessielouwrites
Please note: Tess is not affiliated with the writing duo of Charlene Tess and Judi Thompson.
Tess Thompson is the USA Today Bestselling and award-winning author of contemporary and historical Romantic Women’s Fiction with over 60 published titles. When asked to describe her books, she could never figure out what to say that would perfectly sum them up until she landed on, Hometowns and Heartstrings.
She’s married to her prince, Best Husband Ever, and is the mother of their blended family of four kids and five cats. Best Husband Ever is seventeen months younger, which qualifies Tess as a Cougar, a title she wears proudly. Her Bonus Sons are young adults with pretty hair and big brains like their dad. Daughters, better known as Princess One and Two, are teenagers who make their mama proud because they’re kind. They’re also smart, but a mother shouldn’t brag.
Tess loves lazy afternoons watching football, hanging out on the back patio with Best Husband Ever, reading in bed, binge-watching television series, red wine, strong coffee and walks on crisp autumn days. She laughs a little too loudly, never knows what to make for dinner, looks ridiculous kickboxing in an attempt to combat her muffin top, and always complains about the
rain even though she chose to live in Seattle.
She’s proud to have grown up in a small town like the ones in her novels. After graduating from the University of Southern California Drama School, she had hopes of becoming an actress but was called instead to writing fiction. She’s grateful to spend most days in her office matchmaking her characters while her favorite cat Mittens (shhh…don’t tell the others) sleeps on the desk.
She adores hearing from readers, so don’t hesitate to say hello or sign up for her newsletter:
http://tesswrites.com/. You’ll receive an ebook copy of her novella, The Santa Trial, for your
efforts.
Much to her father’s horror, you can find her everywhere on social media.
BookBub: http://bit.ly/2esOcrn
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorTessTh...
Goodreads: http://bit.ly/2vClTfX
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/tesswrites
Twitter: https://twitter.com/tesswrites
Instagram: https://instagram.com/tessielouwrites
Please note: Tess is not affiliated with the writing duo of Charlene Tess and Judi Thompson.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 85 reviews
September 5, 2024
Tess Thompson couldn't write a bad book even if she tried! That being said, When the Stars Rise at Midnight was one of her best! The characters are real, the story is full of surprises, twists and turns, and the ending was perfect. Both books in this series are page turners, and I highly recommend them!
October 10, 2024
Fun, quick read
Satisfying sequel!! I received the first one in a Goodreads giveaway and had to find the conclusion. It did not disappoint!
Satisfying sequel!! I received the first one in a Goodreads giveaway and had to find the conclusion. It did not disappoint!
August 30, 2024
Tess Thompson, thank you so much for this uplifting book, When Stars Rise at Midnight, Part Two of The Midnight Stars Saga Book. When we last saw Estelle and Percy I had used up a box of tissues and not for happy tears. Estelle’s outlook on the future says it all: “Pining for a man married to another was an endless ache, a combination of guilt, self-hatred, and longing that threatened to smother me each and every day. Regardless, Percival and I had agreed that we could not act on our feelings. To do so would hurt too many people. Worse, it would be a betrayal of his marriage vows, taken before God. Neither of us could be that selfish, even though I wished more than anything he could be by my side.” Heart-wrenchingly hopeless. Estelle wouldn’t have to be reduced to a life of shame, they would still see each other and be friends, but within the iron boundaries of society. I wanted to rail against the horribly cruel and restrictive rules, how just the tiniest hint of impropriety – whether justified or not – could ruin a person, especially a woman and I thought: this is the Twentieth Century, not the Regency Era. It’s the 1920s, the Roaring Twenties, for heaven’s sake, but it doesn’t matter. The rules of the upper crust in New York City are unbendable, at least in the public eye. What goes on behind closed door is another story, but Estelle and Percy have strong moral codes and will not give in, do not give in, even behind those closed doors. It’s pure and it’s admirable, but as the reader you just want them to be happy, want for their hurting to stop, see how they are truly meant for each other and wish for that to somehow be possible. For Estelle, Percy, Clara and Mrs. Bradford to be the happy, content family they deserve to be.
We already met most of the players in the first book, and most of them are still as deplorable as ever. Estelle’s mother shut out Estelle and her twin sister Mauve after the death of their little brother. She preferred Mauve, never stood up for Estelle, was never a comforting mother, never on her side, even when Estelle was banished as if she were dead. Grief over her lost son might account for some of that, but Estelle feels her own similar grief. And even if she was unaware of Estelle’s father’s true business and didn’t necessarily actively take his side, tacit withdrawal was enough. She was not the mother Estelle needed. Until maybe she was
Estelle’s father has always been demanding, cruel, unyielding, and she’s only recently discovered he’s a murdering mobster, with the death of Estelle’s fiancé on his hands and a connection to Percy’s wife’s family that seems to destroy any chance they have at even a friendship.
What more tragedy could possibly befall Estelle? Read on and you’ll find out.
Percy’s wife Mary is mentally ill, violent and dangerous and had to be confined to an asylum several years ago. Percy is a man, with all a man’s needs and wants, desires and jealousies but with a sense of honor and a determination to not be the cruel and uncaring man his father was that overrides all those other emotions. He is a married man; he meant his vows when he took them and he intends to keep them, even if there is no chance his wife’s condition will improve, even if it means he has no chance for future happiness. He will not be like his father. But Mary’s brother Simon is not content with that, particularly after the connection between his and Estelle’s families becomes known. He causes Estelle to leave the Bradford house and does not approve of Percy providing an apartment for her, even if they truly are just friends. He suspects her motives and wants to destroy her and her family.
When Stars Rise at Midnight is nerve-wracking. The tension rises and the suspense and fear wind tighter and tighter. Mysterious people show up seemingly around every corner, threats and attacks are made, everyone is on edge and afraid, deaths occur. Even more secrets are revealed. Can there ever be even a small amount of happiness for Estelle and Percy and his family, or will they even survive? Author Thompson as always does a masterful job of balancing the sweet and romantic and charming with the crude and ruthless and dangerous. You cannot turn the pages fast enough; you think you know who is responsible. You’re wrong, and you think you know who’s responsible again. A thriller, a romance, a tale of those times and of what people will do to survive. Engrossing and completely satisfying.
Thanks to author Tess Thompson for providing an advance copy of When Stars Rise at Midnight, the second book in the Midnight Stars Saga as part of her review crew. I thoroughly enjoyed it as I do all of Thompson’s books, recommend it without hesitation, and am grateful that this time the smiles outnumbered the tears. I voluntarily leave this review; all opinions are my own.
We already met most of the players in the first book, and most of them are still as deplorable as ever. Estelle’s mother shut out Estelle and her twin sister Mauve after the death of their little brother. She preferred Mauve, never stood up for Estelle, was never a comforting mother, never on her side, even when Estelle was banished as if she were dead. Grief over her lost son might account for some of that, but Estelle feels her own similar grief. And even if she was unaware of Estelle’s father’s true business and didn’t necessarily actively take his side, tacit withdrawal was enough. She was not the mother Estelle needed. Until maybe she was
Estelle’s father has always been demanding, cruel, unyielding, and she’s only recently discovered he’s a murdering mobster, with the death of Estelle’s fiancé on his hands and a connection to Percy’s wife’s family that seems to destroy any chance they have at even a friendship.
What more tragedy could possibly befall Estelle? Read on and you’ll find out.
Percy’s wife Mary is mentally ill, violent and dangerous and had to be confined to an asylum several years ago. Percy is a man, with all a man’s needs and wants, desires and jealousies but with a sense of honor and a determination to not be the cruel and uncaring man his father was that overrides all those other emotions. He is a married man; he meant his vows when he took them and he intends to keep them, even if there is no chance his wife’s condition will improve, even if it means he has no chance for future happiness. He will not be like his father. But Mary’s brother Simon is not content with that, particularly after the connection between his and Estelle’s families becomes known. He causes Estelle to leave the Bradford house and does not approve of Percy providing an apartment for her, even if they truly are just friends. He suspects her motives and wants to destroy her and her family.
When Stars Rise at Midnight is nerve-wracking. The tension rises and the suspense and fear wind tighter and tighter. Mysterious people show up seemingly around every corner, threats and attacks are made, everyone is on edge and afraid, deaths occur. Even more secrets are revealed. Can there ever be even a small amount of happiness for Estelle and Percy and his family, or will they even survive? Author Thompson as always does a masterful job of balancing the sweet and romantic and charming with the crude and ruthless and dangerous. You cannot turn the pages fast enough; you think you know who is responsible. You’re wrong, and you think you know who’s responsible again. A thriller, a romance, a tale of those times and of what people will do to survive. Engrossing and completely satisfying.
Thanks to author Tess Thompson for providing an advance copy of When Stars Rise at Midnight, the second book in the Midnight Stars Saga as part of her review crew. I thoroughly enjoyed it as I do all of Thompson’s books, recommend it without hesitation, and am grateful that this time the smiles outnumbered the tears. I voluntarily leave this review; all opinions are my own.
August 30, 2024
This was truly an amazing read, the second opus in "The Midnight Stars Saga". Again the author takes us back to spend time with Estelle and Percival. We climb into Christmas of 1922, and meet with the lovely characters from the previous book. It's nice to be back with them again and to follow Estelle's and Percival's continued story. Estelle is living safely in an apartment that she had been helped to have. A way to be safe from dangers that could arise at any moment. As the story unravels Estelle finds out more about the dark history of her side of the family. At the same time there is still family issues that need their attention in Percival's family. Estelle goes from one struggle to another and some of it is really nail-biting moments. Estelle finds that Percival's family care more and more about her even if there are situations that are compromising. This is a story of second chances for both the main characters, it does however take time to really happen. It also has a part crime solving and investigations that take time, at some part it is even heartbreaking. I loved the ending of this story and I was really happy to finish this book too. The author Tess Thompson did it again with the best storytelling!
I'm grateful to have read this book and can definitely recommend it.
Thanks Charlotte N
I'm grateful to have read this book and can definitely recommend it.
Thanks Charlotte N
September 30, 2024
Midnight Stars Saga Book 2
I was given an advanced reader copy of this book and I am so very happy I got to read it early. I could hardly wait for this book to come out and Stella’s story to continue. I was not disappointed. This new series by Tess really has the reader on the edge of their seat. So many twists and turns.
The continued love story between Percy and Stella has you wishing so many times for their happy ending. I absolutely love Mrs Bancroft. She is the Mother and Grandmother that just makes you feel seen and loved no matter what. Reminds me of my own Grandmother. Th e bind between Perceval and Clara just melts my heart. He is such a protective loving father and she is such a smart, sweet little girl who truly adores the adults around her. She wishes for Stella to be her mother and for them to live happily ever after. I wish that as well for all of them.
I couldn’t believe what happened to poor Mary and who did it. In the end though we find out the truth. Poor Stella has to live with all of the horrible things her Father has done and the the things that happened because of him. I hope one day she can put it all behind her and live happily ever after.
I highly recommend this series to anyone who likes a love story along with some tragedy and suspense. I will be waiting on pins and needles for book three.
I was given an advanced reader copy of this book and I am so very happy I got to read it early. I could hardly wait for this book to come out and Stella’s story to continue. I was not disappointed. This new series by Tess really has the reader on the edge of their seat. So many twists and turns.
The continued love story between Percy and Stella has you wishing so many times for their happy ending. I absolutely love Mrs Bancroft. She is the Mother and Grandmother that just makes you feel seen and loved no matter what. Reminds me of my own Grandmother. Th e bind between Perceval and Clara just melts my heart. He is such a protective loving father and she is such a smart, sweet little girl who truly adores the adults around her. She wishes for Stella to be her mother and for them to live happily ever after. I wish that as well for all of them.
I couldn’t believe what happened to poor Mary and who did it. In the end though we find out the truth. Poor Stella has to live with all of the horrible things her Father has done and the the things that happened because of him. I hope one day she can put it all behind her and live happily ever after.
I highly recommend this series to anyone who likes a love story along with some tragedy and suspense. I will be waiting on pins and needles for book three.
November 28, 2024
I'm so glad I didn't need to wait a long time for this sequel! As I am always saying, Tess Thompson is one of the only authors of historical fiction that I will devour again and again. I almost think her historical fiction is now stronger than her contemporaries. And this series is now my favorite.
The first installment ended on what Tess called a cliffhanger. To me, it was just a natural pause point, because it was a huge turning point in the story. This one has both heartbreak and heart filling as Estelle and Percival continue to battle their hearts' true desires as she continues to pull herself out of the trenches and he persists in helping her. Throw in a murder mystery and some unexpected plot twists, and I guarantee an engrossing read. I am just so in love with all of these characters and felt some echoes of Jane Eyre, one of my all-time favorite stories. (This is one of Tess's other strong points: you feel echoes of your classic favorites, but she makes the stories all her own.)
I will definitely be rereading this series.
I received a requested review copy via Bookfunnel. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The first installment ended on what Tess called a cliffhanger. To me, it was just a natural pause point, because it was a huge turning point in the story. This one has both heartbreak and heart filling as Estelle and Percival continue to battle their hearts' true desires as she continues to pull herself out of the trenches and he persists in helping her. Throw in a murder mystery and some unexpected plot twists, and I guarantee an engrossing read. I am just so in love with all of these characters and felt some echoes of Jane Eyre, one of my all-time favorite stories. (This is one of Tess's other strong points: you feel echoes of your classic favorites, but she makes the stories all her own.)
I will definitely be rereading this series.
I received a requested review copy via Bookfunnel. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 11, 2024
Wonderful end to this two part book. Stella and Percival continue their agreement to remain friends, respecting the fact that Percival is married. Percival provides Stella an apartment with staff in exchange for nights where they share dinner. Others don’t believe their relationship is platonic. Once again Stella’s father and his business dealings rise up to haunt the couple. When tragedy strikes Percival’s wife, suspicious are raised and Stella suffers.
She soon learns that a mother’s love is priceless as her mother makes a sacrifice to benefit Stella. The truth comes to light about the tragedy of Mary, Percival’s wife.
Will Stella and Percival ever have a future? Will Stella’s father’s business dealings be revealed?
Twists and turns will surprise the reader.
Thank you to the author for this ARC. This review is my honest opinion.
She soon learns that a mother’s love is priceless as her mother makes a sacrifice to benefit Stella. The truth comes to light about the tragedy of Mary, Percival’s wife.
Will Stella and Percival ever have a future? Will Stella’s father’s business dealings be revealed?
Twists and turns will surprise the reader.
Thank you to the author for this ARC. This review is my honest opinion.
August 30, 2024
Author Tess Thompson has done it again with When Stars Rise at Midnight, a sequel to When Stars Fall at Midnight. Her historical saga set in the 1920’s has everything you could want in a story: heartbreak, family tragedy, mafia mayhem, a suspected murder and love. It is the story of Estelle Sullivan and Percival Bancroft and their families and gives you a great insight into life in the 1920’s in New York City. The book is a page turner, full of twists and surprises right up to the very end. I would suggest you read book 1, When Stars Fall at Midnight, to get the full background although you do not need to read it as the sequel gives you a synopsis of book 1.
I was given an ARC copy of these books to review a this is my unsolicited opinion….you will love it!
I was given an ARC copy of these books to review a this is my unsolicited opinion….you will love it!
September 10, 2024
Oh wow! At the end of book one, I couldn't see an honorable way forward for Estelle and Percival, so I have been eagerly waiting for this book and it did not disappoint. There are lots of twists and turns, and ups and downs, as well as some happy moments with Percival's family and Estelle's dog. You have to read all the way to the end for the full revelation of the facts.
It was interesting to see more of Estelle's mother and father, who were just shadowy figures who created the tragedy in the first book. And I was so frustrated for Estelle and Percival, who were living chaste lives, but who were constantly being doubted and criticized about the living situation. This story and the characters will grip you, so make plans to have the time to read it once you pick it up.
It was interesting to see more of Estelle's mother and father, who were just shadowy figures who created the tragedy in the first book. And I was so frustrated for Estelle and Percival, who were living chaste lives, but who were constantly being doubted and criticized about the living situation. This story and the characters will grip you, so make plans to have the time to read it once you pick it up.
September 2, 2024
The second book in The Midnight Stars series by Tess Thompson.
This is a good story of desire that must be ignored due to the vows Percival took at his wedding even though his wife is in a mental hospital for the rest of her life.
Estelle has another new name, she’s now Mrs. Wainwright, a widow lady, the Bancrofts are providing a home and staff for in exchange for friendship only and dinner on Saturday.
Dr Bancroft’s, Percival, wife is in a mental facility but he takes his vows very seriously.
Men start following the females in his life. Has Estelle’s mobster father returned to cause trouble?
*I received this as an ARC reader and am leaving my unbiased review.
This is a good story of desire that must be ignored due to the vows Percival took at his wedding even though his wife is in a mental hospital for the rest of her life.
Estelle has another new name, she’s now Mrs. Wainwright, a widow lady, the Bancrofts are providing a home and staff for in exchange for friendship only and dinner on Saturday.
Dr Bancroft’s, Percival, wife is in a mental facility but he takes his vows very seriously.
Men start following the females in his life. Has Estelle’s mobster father returned to cause trouble?
*I received this as an ARC reader and am leaving my unbiased review.
September 4, 2024
A continuation of the story of Stella (Estelle) and Percival. But this can be read without the first one and still enjoy the story. Despite caring for each other, there are twists and turns to keep them apart. I love the interactions and how much they care for each other. Both have gone through so many issues separately. But they pull together, despite being lambasted from several sides for being friends. Percival has a wife who is in a home for the mentally impaired but he remains loyal to his wife. There are a lot of twists and turns, sometimes danger but these two get though it. I generally don’t do historical stories, but this one grabbed me. And I may have to try another one.
September 10, 2024
Tess Thompson, with this book you have me aghast . A real good story that I could grasp . Estelle , having found solace in New York City living in a fine apartment thanks to her benefactor Percival Bancroft…..All he requires is she joins in for dinner once per week. He belongs to another but she’s fallen in love. Percy is laden with burden as his wife is committed to an asylum for the insane with no hope of recovery , he sure hopes of all that is holy , that the woman he dreams of could one day be his love.. . Brilliant read! Good characters too. If in this position , what would you do? It makes you ponder. Excellent storytelling.
September 13, 2024
I was so thrilled to be part of Estelle’s life again in Booke 2 of “The Midnight Stars” series.
Book two takes us further into Stella and Percival’s lives. I loved being taken back to Stella’s childhood home, meeting her parents and discovering the true love a mother can bring - although tragic. Stella and Percy’s lives have been intertwined since they were children but only discovered these hidden secrets when they were older.
This book gave me every emotion and enough drama that I couldn’t put it down - often reading though the night. While it has a beautiful ending, I’m really hoping there is Book 3 and the sisters may reunite one day ❤️❤️
Book two takes us further into Stella and Percival’s lives. I loved being taken back to Stella’s childhood home, meeting her parents and discovering the true love a mother can bring - although tragic. Stella and Percy’s lives have been intertwined since they were children but only discovered these hidden secrets when they were older.
This book gave me every emotion and enough drama that I couldn’t put it down - often reading though the night. While it has a beautiful ending, I’m really hoping there is Book 3 and the sisters may reunite one day ❤️❤️
September 23, 2024
When Stars Rise at Midnight Part 2 is the perfect finale for the Midnight Stars book series. The storyline picked right up where Book 1 left off and continued to flow seamlessly throughout. The reader gains in-depth knowledge of the people that were introduced in the first book as well as learning more about their deceit, ignorance of specific individuals and their beliefs. This action-packed novel is one that is difficult to put down. I highly recommend it to all but only to those that have read Book 1 first. Thank you to 4Kids5Cats Publishing for an early review copy at my request. All thoughts are my own and freely shared.
January 29, 2025
A satisfying continuation…
I knew that book 2 would answer some of my questions, but I did not expect the turmoil that was falsely created. Once the foundation was laid, another major turn of events occurred. The stories flowed nicely and there was enough of a mystery to keep me interested. The relationship between mothers and daughters usually are complex and this book was no exception. Daughter’s and father’s often have positive relationships. Not so much in this story. Stella is a warm and strong character. I look forward to her resolving the last piece of her anguish in Book 3.
I knew that book 2 would answer some of my questions, but I did not expect the turmoil that was falsely created. Once the foundation was laid, another major turn of events occurred. The stories flowed nicely and there was enough of a mystery to keep me interested. The relationship between mothers and daughters usually are complex and this book was no exception. Daughter’s and father’s often have positive relationships. Not so much in this story. Stella is a warm and strong character. I look forward to her resolving the last piece of her anguish in Book 3.
January 29, 2025
A satisfying continuation…
Reviewed in the United States on January 29, 2025
I knew that book 2 would answer some of my questions, but I did not expect the turmoil that was falsely created. Once the foundation was laid, another major turn of events occurred. The stories flowed nicely and there was enough of a mystery to keep me interested. The relationship between mothers and daughters usually are complex and this book was no exception. Daughter’s and father’s often have positive relationships. Not so much in this story. Stella is a warm and strong character. I look forward to her resolving the last piece of her anguish in Book 3.
Reviewed in the United States on January 29, 2025
I knew that book 2 would answer some of my questions, but I did not expect the turmoil that was falsely created. Once the foundation was laid, another major turn of events occurred. The stories flowed nicely and there was enough of a mystery to keep me interested. The relationship between mothers and daughters usually are complex and this book was no exception. Daughter’s and father’s often have positive relationships. Not so much in this story. Stella is a warm and strong character. I look forward to her resolving the last piece of her anguish in Book 3.
August 29, 2024
Another great book that is the conclusion of Percival and Estelle’s story. This story had me so intrigued I couldn’t put it down once I started, so many twists and turns and surprises in the pages of this story. Percival and Estelle had to go through so much tragedy that was heartbreaking. I loved the characters, little Clara is a sweetie, Percival is so loving and kind, Estelle is so strong and caring. They make such a beautiful little family. This book is heartbreaking as well as heartwarming. Great read!
August 31, 2024
I loved Part 2 of Estelle and Percival’s story. These star-crossed lovers live in the 1920s when life is hard, and women have few opportunities. They both have big hearts and high moral standards but are faced with many challenges such as family ties to organized crime and debilitating mental illness but after sad events and intrigue, they manage to get their happily ever after. If you are looking for a historical novel that makes you feel like you are a part of the 1920s with interesting plots and twists, then you will enjoy reading this book.
September 2, 2024
In Part 2 of this series Estelle and Percy's story continues. Just when they think this are getting into a normal routine. both families discover some horrible things that have happened in the past. As they come to terms with mafia ties, Percy's wife turns up dead at the asylum she has been living at for the past 6 years. Will Estelle and Percys ever get their happily ever after? I am sure you will find yourself reading into the night to see where the story goes. There are definitely some twists in this story.
September 2, 2024
When Stars Rise at Midnight is a fantastic conclusion to the Midnight Stars Saga. I love Percival and Estelle so much. Percy is so caring and you feel for him as he struggles with his feelings for Stella. Stella is so strong. She is a survivor of everything thrown at her. I love the slow build in this period piece. I love the connection Stella forms with Percy's daughter and mother. This is such a sweet read. I could not get enough of this one. If you haven't read the first book yet you need to binge read both now. Go one click this now.
September 3, 2024
An absolutely excellent read by all means though heart-wrenching to no end. All the feels and emotions involved while reading this amazing second part of Midnight Stars saga.
A lot of sad and hardship filled moments but with hope for the better future always comes from the pages of this story written by a talented author that keeps us on the edge of what could happen in the next chapter. This was the really unputabledown kind of book.
Estelle and Percival’s path to the finding their future together was paved with hardships and grief but so inspiring. Loved it immensely!
A lot of sad and hardship filled moments but with hope for the better future always comes from the pages of this story written by a talented author that keeps us on the edge of what could happen in the next chapter. This was the really unputabledown kind of book.
Estelle and Percival’s path to the finding their future together was paved with hardships and grief but so inspiring. Loved it immensely!
September 5, 2024
Tess Thompson writes books that brings the reader in heart and soul. Her stories are always the ones that leave us wanting more.
Tess Thompsons books pulls on the heart strings. In a good way.
A wonderful story.
About a girl, named Estelle her family tossed her away. Now to make a life on her own. Sometimes good things happen to good people. And sometimes the past creaps up.
A perfect story. I absolutely loved the ending
Thank you tess.
I suggest this author to many friends and family. Several have now become big fans as well.
Tess Thompsons books pulls on the heart strings. In a good way.
A wonderful story.
About a girl, named Estelle her family tossed her away. Now to make a life on her own. Sometimes good things happen to good people. And sometimes the past creaps up.
A perfect story. I absolutely loved the ending
Thank you tess.
I suggest this author to many friends and family. Several have now become big fans as well.
September 7, 2024
I re-read When Stars Fall at Midnight to bring myself up to date before reading this book. It was like reading one longer book. So good! I couldn't put it down! Anything by this author is worth your time to read. I am thankful to be allowed to read an ARC.
Estelle thought after her Connie was killed, and she gave her baby away, she had no reason to live. Percival rescued her, helped her body to heal and helped her heart to heal. But he was married already. They had no future... But...
Read it and see what happens.
Estelle thought after her Connie was killed, and she gave her baby away, she had no reason to live. Percival rescued her, helped her body to heal and helped her heart to heal. But he was married already. They had no future... But...
Read it and see what happens.
September 10, 2024
Tess Thompson spins the conclusion of the Midnight Stars Saga into a thriller, with lots of twists and turns before Stella and Percival can act on the love they found (but denied themselves) in Part 1. The wait is worth it! Tension rises when mysterious people show up in Stars Rise at Midnight with threats and attacks putting everyone on edge. Secrets are revealed, but not before deaths occur. A tale of the times (1920s) and what people will do to survive, this is a saga I will enjoy reading again.
September 11, 2024
Book one of this series ended on a major cliffhanger. I was so excited to read book two. That being said, I don't think it is essential to have read book one, but a lot of things won't make total sense if you don't read book one.
The story moves incredibly fast in this book and it grabs the reader. There were a few times I wanted to put the book down due to feeling so sorry for the characters and what they were experiencing.
As always with this author, she leaves you with a happy ending and cheerfulness that lifts your mood for the next day or so - so needed in today's world.
The story moves incredibly fast in this book and it grabs the reader. There were a few times I wanted to put the book down due to feeling so sorry for the characters and what they were experiencing.
As always with this author, she leaves you with a happy ending and cheerfulness that lifts your mood for the next day or so - so needed in today's world.
September 15, 2024
just loved book 1 in this series and book 2 is as good if not better.
The story of Estelle and Percival had me hooked. The unhappiness that Estelle suffered at the hands of her father and his criminal dealings led to a lot of terrible happenings affecting both her and Percival's life.
Mrs Bancroft was a saving grace and also young Clara, Percival's daughter to his poor wife Mary.
Tess has such a fabulous way of telling stories and I cannot wait for the next. I'm reading the recent crescent moon book which again is a page turner.
Thank you Tess for brightening our dreary uk days. 😀
The story of Estelle and Percival had me hooked. The unhappiness that Estelle suffered at the hands of her father and his criminal dealings led to a lot of terrible happenings affecting both her and Percival's life.
Mrs Bancroft was a saving grace and also young Clara, Percival's daughter to his poor wife Mary.
Tess has such a fabulous way of telling stories and I cannot wait for the next. I'm reading the recent crescent moon book which again is a page turner.
Thank you Tess for brightening our dreary uk days. 😀
September 1, 2024
An excellent read! It was heart warming to read the next step in the lives of Estelle and Percival. Estelle had given birth to her daughter, having to give her to her sister to take care of as she was unwed. Percival is a Dr who saw she was in distress and convinced her to let him take care of her so she could recover. Life in the 1920's was very different for women. An intriguing story of crime that caused a lot of grief for those on the edges.
September 1, 2024
This is book two of the story about Estelle and Percival. I always enjoy historical fiction and romance written by Tess Thompson. The stories are always interesting with well developed characters. They are full of drama and serious topics without ever being too dark. When Stars Rise At Midnight is a mix of heartbreak, grief, romance and family drama.
Thank you Tess Thompson for an advanced readers copy in exchange for my honest review.
Thank you Tess Thompson for an advanced readers copy in exchange for my honest review.
September 3, 2024
Estelle has been through many hard times that don’t seem to be ending anytime soon. Percy is the sweetest man and is so loyal to his wife who’s in an asylum. After his wife Mary & Stella’s mom have both passed away. Stella and Percy are able to marry and be a family with his daughter Clara and their daughter Emmaline and another on the way. I love the story on Stella and Percy.
I received a free copy of this book am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book am voluntarily leaving a review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 3, 2024
When Stars Rise at Midnight is the continuation of When Stars Fall at Midnight. Estelle and Percival are so clearly in love, and both of them are so deserving of love, but life has dealt both of them bad hands. There were so many outside forces keeping them apart. I enjoyed the element of mystery surrounding their family connection, it definitely kept me engaged in the story. Their HEA was so worth the wait.
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