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Kentucky Midnight #2

Darkness Draws Near

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Life’s worth fighting for …

When Mellie Rivers takes in a young mom, she knows there’s risk involved—both from the government and from her own inadequacies.

Working as a missionary and a mechanic is already a challenge, but now Friedrich Wolf faces an unknown threat—a threat he must stop before he loses all too much.

Friedrich and Mellie will have to fight for life … even as darkness draws near.

289 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 7, 2022

23 people want to read

About the author

Kristina Hall

19 books429 followers
Kristina Hall is a sinner saved by grace who seeks to glorify God with her words. She is a homeschool graduate and holds a degree in accounting. When she’s not writing, she enjoys reading, arm wrestling, lifting weights, and playing the violin.

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Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews
Profile Image for Kaytlin Phillips.
Author 18 books255 followers
September 15, 2022
Oh, wow! That was soooo good! Wow!

Characters:
Mellie and Friedrich are the cutest couple! I love the slow progression of the relationship, the easy bantering and how they both want the best for each other!
Jess and Mellie are so fun together and just like what actually having sisters is like!
Audra was a nice addition and the three of them making fun of romance books was really quite funny! Lol...and so true!

Plot:
As always plenty of suspense and action. Beautiful themes of God's faithfulness and care over us. Just super good!

Romance:
One or two forehead and cheek kisses. Hand holding and mentions of liking each other. It's really awesome to just watch the relationship unfold...and as I've said the banter is great!

Language:
N/A

Overall:
I really enjoyed the second installment of the Kentucky Midnight Series! I cannot wait for the next book and eek! This was just so so so so so good!

I received a ARC of this book but was not required to leave a review. Thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own. :)
Profile Image for Judith McNees.
Author 7 books70 followers
September 14, 2022
Okay, I'm probably delirious as I write this review because I stayed up way too late finishing this novel. As always, Kristina got my heart pounding, and the suspense, especially in about the last 60 pages or so, compelled me to keep reading.Who needs sleep anyway?

I was super happy that the romance started to develop a little further than in book 1. I do think their cautious relationship works for the things Mellie and Friedrich have been through. My romantic heart wants them to throw caution to the wind, but these aren't the kind of characters who will do that, unless it means risking their life.

Friedrich. Oh Friedrich. I hope he kinda gets a grip in book 3, because I had a lot of moments where I wanted to shake him this time around. It was an interesting dynamic that his and Mellie's insecurities kind of played off of each other. I'm still waiting on my HEA romance ending *gives Kristina doe eyes* but at least I got my HFN.

Despite my wanting to shake him moments, I really connected with Friedrich's survivor guilt. I don't want to say much more about that, but when you read it, you'll know. It really does make you question everything.

I received this book free from the publisher/author. The opinions I have expressed are my own, and I was not required to write a review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255. 
Profile Image for Abby Burrus.
Author 2 books101 followers
December 19, 2022
Here we are, more dystopian, suspense, and definitely more romance!

It’s rare that I say this about a book where romance is only part of the main course / more of a side thing, but honestly, I think the romance might’ve been my favorite part of it all. Mellie and Friedrich are just so average and I just really enjoy watching them fumble through their relationship together, while at the same time growing closer to one another. I also enjoy the fact that the fumbling is realistic and not based on a whole bunch of fabricated drama and misunderstandings. MILD SPOILER:
Aubra (the young mother mentioned in the blurb) definitely added a new twist. Just going to put it right out there, this book (and the person writing this review right here) are pro-life. If you can’t handle that, go ahead and leave.

As for plot, I didn’t like it as much as book 1 in this series, but it definitely kept things on edge. Karl is a PAIN. He just will not go away *wrinkles nose*. And of course he would be the particular source of all the angst and suspense in this particular book, which I’m sure he is quite proud of.
Oh, how could I nearly forget to mention that the switching between 1st and 3rd person is so cool! I meant to say that in my review of Midnight Will Come. Now, the switching could be jerky, but it’s not, Kristina pulls it off so that it’s fluid and it just really works for this story.
So overall, a good romance / dystopian / suspense novel. Whatever it may have lacked plot wise for me, I think it made up for it in the romance department 😉 .

I was given a free copy of this book for honest review. All opinions are my own. Thank you so much Kristina for letting me read this book despite my terribly late reviews! I look forward to the conclusion of this series, Shadows Close In.
If you want to read the full, extended review of this book, click here to read it on my blog.

Until the next review,
Abby

Profile Image for Katja Labonté.
Author 31 books348 followers
September 5, 2024
3 stars. I don’t really know what I think of this book…? For some reason, it fell a little flat for me, and I’m not sure why, because there’s nothing wrong with the story itself. Setting—exactly the same as the first book. Writing style—also same. Once more I loved Mellie’s sarcasm, although oddly enough I felt there was less this time around?? Characters—everyone was the same as ever, except Friedrich and Mellie did some slight growth. Audra was a great character, and I loved having her around—hope to see more of her in book 3! And Stacy, Larry, and the Conners were fun additions. Frankly, I missed Karl—he’s just such a donkey but he brings out so much humour from the others.

Plot-wise, I have the idea that it was much less exciting than book one, and I honestly don’t know why. I think it was the lack of suspense. There wasn’t the constant, overhanging threat that book one provided, so apparently I must have disconnected with the perilous situation. The plot wasn’t even similar to book one, which was good—I truly have no idea why I was expecting it to be so similar. Finally, I enjoyed seeing a romance blossom, and I loved the whole angle with Curt. I don’t remember the message of the story, but I remember it was good, so… yeah. I also loved the staunch pro-life aspect.

This is a pathetic review and I apologize to everyone concerned, and I reiterate I do NOT know why I am so apathetic about this sequel. I have no complaints; this has nothing to do with the book or author; I just… wasn’t in the mood or something?? But I plan to reread it someday and hopefully (very probably) I will enjoy it more then.

A Favourite Quote: “Maybe ... instead of worrying about being happy, you could concentrate on being thankful.”
A Favourite Humorous Quote:“I’m sorry.” He fought for a smile. “You slashed my tires? Think I’m a Nazi?”
Jess stepped up beside Mellie and hooked her arm through hers. “You’re not looking at this right. She drives a Mercedes Benz. BMWs are well beneath her. Therefore ...”
“Yeah, it’s making sense now.”
Mellie smirked. “Yep. That’s me. BMW vandal. I should have a business card made up. Then I’m going to start training Audra in my ways ...” She glanced over her shoulder at the girl slipping up behind her. “Then you’ll have two of us to worry about.”
Not that he needed more to worry about.


*I received a complimentary copy of this book for promotional purposes. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.*
Profile Image for Madisyn Carlin.
Author 30 books378 followers
April 21, 2023
It's been over a year since the events in Midnight Will Come, and maybe, just maybe, Mellie Rivers is catching a break. Well, aside from an unexpected patient, that is. And that potential threat. At least she has her resident Stubborn German nearby for protection, and her sister at hand so she won't starve off the food Mellie reduces to charcoal.

Life proves it's not on her side, however, and soon Mellie finds herself enduring circumstances no one envies.

***
PLOT
I know this is a dystopian book, but it's also quite suspenseful, as well. I'll need a short break before venturing to Book Three because my heart simply cannot handle everything these darling characters go through. So, in short, the plot will keep you---literally---on the edge of your seat.

SETTING
Darkness Draws Near takes place in Kentucky. Hall makes it easy to visualize yourself there with the characters.

CHARACTERS
Mellie is a dear, as always. Her humor is similar to my own---verging on slightly insane, definitely dry, and a tad wacky. It made me laugh many a time, which was a nice reprieve from the constant worry that the good guys wouldn't survive.

Friedrich is great too. I really like how human he is. He has his insecurities, fears, and flaws like the rest of us. He's genuine, and is a good example of an everyday Christian.

The supporting cast were solid as well---either solidly good like Jess and Audra or solidly despicable like a certain Sir Needs a Punch or a particular cluster of ne'er-do-wells.

FAITH
Typical to Hall, there is so much faith packed within these pages. Characters learn that, no matter how dire and dark their circumstances, God will always be there. His Light can neither be muffled nor extinguished.

Characters pray, attend church, read the Bible, and discuss faith and the sanctity of life.

VIOLENCE
There is some violence, but it's tastefully handled. Characters are beaten up, shot, shot at, smacked around, kidnapped, threatened with torture and death, and there are mentions of riots, destruction, and an unnamed character being brutally treated before perishing. Characters are forced to shoot in self-defense.

ROMANCE
The romance is pure, sweet, and awkward. It made me laugh, Mellie's denial of not liking a Certain Someone.

OTHER
This book tackles abortion and pro-life. Hall takes an unapologetic stance on portraying how sacred life is and how an unborn baby is still human. It should encourage any true Christian to continue standing strong for the unborn.

To those who are easily offended: this is not the book for you. Liberalism and forced government mandates and overtures are portrayed as the evil they are. So, if you dislike faith, true science, and the reality of the potential evil that could easily overtake our United States, don't read this book.

CONCLUSION
This review is long overdue, and for that I ardently apologize.

Darkness Draws Near is a whopper. Not in length, but in content. It challenges the reader to ask themselves what they would do if in Mellie's and Friedrich's positions; if our faith would suffer or strengthen; and what we'd sacrifice to protect truth and life. A thousand standing ovations to Hall for being bold in proclaiming the truth.

Dystopian is a genre often both dissed and dismissed, but I believe we need Christian Dystopian. Not only to warn of us of what could be if we become lax in defending the values our country was built on, but to provide hope that, even in the hardest of times, God will neither leave nor forsake us.

Well done, Hall. After I've recovered from the numerous near-heart attacks, I'll move on to Book Three.

I received an ARC of this book from the author. The opinions expressed are my own.
Profile Image for Vanessa Hall.
Author 6 books163 followers
November 29, 2022
Disclosure: I received this book free from the publisher/author. The opinions I have expressed are my own, and I was not required to write a positive review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

What a powerful second installment into this series! I loved the first book, and now I think I've found a new favorite in the series. Talk about action and truth and wonderful characters and a suspenseful plot ... this is a book you won't want to miss.

Characters: Let's just start this by saying I adore Mellie. She is so real-life, and her reactions are the best! Comedic characters aren't usually main characters, but Mellie brings that lighter side out throughout the entire book. But not in a cheesy, stupid way, either, which is so well-done. And then there's Friedrich. My poor Friedrich, flawed and doubting though he is, I still love him. I personally enjoy those very flawed, struggling characters, and Friedrich is one of those. He doesn't have his entire life together -not even close - but he still has the capability to be quite heroic even if he does have struggles. (And he was quite heroic, let me tell you that.) And though his arc in this book wasn't exactly a positive one, it was relatable and made me think. And the side characters - Audra. I just loved that girl. She wasn't the cliche, hateful girl who wanted to get an abortion. No, she was like most girls who end up getting abortion, having been manipulated and basically forced toward murdering her child. But I really enjoyed her character (and she sounded like such a teenager/early adult.) And Jess, of course - what a perfect sister for Mellie. Then there was Dr. Benton, the Yorks, and the whole crew ... don't even get me started on Curt. Let's just say there were many wonderful side characters that added depth to the story.

Setting/Plot/Writing Style: Once again, the setting of eastern KY was so cool. I haven't read many books set there, but I know from experience how beautiful yet struggling that area is. And then the plot ... I really liked the subplots that wove through the story along with the main plot. Quite suspenseful, especially there at the end. And the writing style - perfect for this book. Mellie's POV is just epic.

Theme: A huge part of this book was about being pro-life and what that looks like practically. I loved how Mellie and Jess cared for Audra and her baby despite the risks and problems associated with helping her. And Friedrich's side of the story ... wow, that was heartbreaking but definitely a cause for thought. So much truth in here and reminders to live for the Lord every day.

Overall, I so enjoyed this book, and I can't wait to see the last book in the series. If you're looking for a romantic suspense with strong morals and lots of action, don't look any further!

Profile Image for Lilly.
156 reviews17 followers
December 11, 2022
All in all a great book.
My favourite character was definitely Audra. I loved the element she added to the book and she had an awesome character arc.
The writing style and setting, as with the first book, I greatly enjoyed.

But what took two stars was that I have to say Mellie and Friedrich’s characters, who I wanted to love as much as in the first book, I just couldn’t get invested into their characters. It seemed like the whole book was spent with the two of them giving themselves pep talks, ignoring any advice they are given, and then doing things that seemed irrational. And second, the plot. It just wasn’t grabbing my attention and it was hard to focus on what was going on and was very easy for me to predict what would happen from start to finish.

Note: I received a copy of this book free from the author. I was not required to write a positive review.
1,019 reviews33 followers
September 28, 2022
Mellie knows she's courting trouble when she convinces a young girl not to get an abortion and takes her in to care for her, but she's convinced that life is more important to God than obeying a law against refusing abortion. Friedrich's work as missionary and mechanic keeps him busy, but as threats against him begin to escalate and affect others, he starts to question his role as a missionary. Is he doing any good? And is his presence putting those around him in danger? As both Mellie and Friedrich face dangers, they are forced to examine their beliefs and decide how much they're willing to risk to follow God...

An interesting addition to the series - a bit more action and less 'in the characters' heads' than the first book, which I felt was an improvement, but there's still plenty that they have to conquer in themselves, which makes for some thought-provoking content. We're not in the sort of world that this book portrays yet, but it's not hard to see that things could head that direction, so it's interesting to see a possible future. I enjoyed watching Mellie and Friedrich gradually edge closer to each other, and hope they'll finally find their feet in the concluding book of the trilogy! All in all, though not my favourite of this author's series, this is still a thought-provoking read and I'm interested to see how the trilogy finishes in the third book.

Note that I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review and this is my considered opinion of the book.
Profile Image for Rebecca Trump.
Author 1 book78 followers
September 30, 2022
Darkness Draws Near by Kristina Hall, book 2 in her Kentucky Midnight series, was intense in her usual suspenseful writing. In this series, she has added in a tender romance I find adorable. Yet I’m sitting on the edge of my seat, occasionally letting out a gasp at unexpected dangers on the next page. I highly recommend this book. Bring on book 3!!
Profile Image for Sarah Ryder.
1,074 reviews248 followers
October 24, 2022
*sigh* I hate to say I disliked this book but…I did, and I wish I didn’t. 😔

The plot made NO SENSE to me and didn’t feel like it had a set direction? It was more like a bunch of random events fit together somehow and that was that? I was disappointed this author’s usual stellar suspense seemed to be missing this time as well. Or that was just me which is highly possible, lol.

The other thing was the characters annoyed the heck out of me. ALL of them made stupid choices that didn’t make ANY sense and if I had to listen to the main characters go over and over and OVER again in their heads about all their complaints and failures they did little to nothing to fix or change I was gonna pull my hair out. They were just so FRUSTRATING and NOT in a good way.

I honestly really, really wanted to like this book, but I honestly really, really didn’t and after trying four of this author’s books, I just don’t think they’re for me. 😔

(Thanks so much Kristina for letting me read your book! I’m so sorry I didn’t like it, but I wish you all the best in your continued writing and publishing journey!)


‼️Content‼️

TRIGGER WARNING: a guy commits suicide by drug overdose (not shown)

Violence: a guy tried to slice a character’s neck (not shown); injuries and blood (not detailed); a character is beaten up (not shown); in the past a character shot two guys on self-defense (not detailed); guns are pointed at characters; characters shoot and are shot and shot at (not detailed)

Sexual: kisses on the cheek

Drug/Alcohol: a guy commits suicide by drug overdose (not shown)

Other: a character wants to get an abortion (is convinced not to); vandalism to a car and house; rioting; characters are chained/tied up; characters are harassed and arrested by the government; a character is kidnapped; death and grief; a character has PTSD

***Note: I received a free copy of the book from the author. All thoughts and opinions are most assuredly my own, and I wasn’t required to write a positive review. If I was, I wouldn’t have read it. 😜***
12.7k reviews190 followers
October 11, 2022
Nellie once again is bound to help even if it puts her in danger. Together she and Fredich work together. Excellent as always.
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