The Turn of Midnight by Minette Walters
From Goodreads
As the year 1349 approaches, the Black Death continues its devastating course across England. In Dorseteshire, the quarantined people of Develish question whether they are the only survivors.
Guided by their beloved young mistress, Lady Anne, they wait, knowing that when their dwindling stores are finally gone they will have no choice but to leave. But where will they find safety in the desolate wasteland outside?
One man has the courage to find out.
Thaddeus Thurkell, a free-thinking, educated serf, strikes out in search of supplies and news. A compelling leader, he and his companions quickly throw off the shackles of serfdom and set their minds to ensuring Develish’s future – and freedom for its people.
But what use is freedom that cannot be gained lawfully? When Lady Anne and Thaddeus conceive an audacious plan to secure her people’s independence, neither foresees the life-threatening struggle over power, money and religion that follows…
ASIN: B07CMKNVW2 Publisher: Allen & Unwin Publication date: October 4th 2018 Pages: 472
Review
This book completes the duology about the black plague written by Minette Walters. As with the first one I listened to this on audio and really enjoyed the experience. The Turn of Midnight follows on from where The Last Hours finished. One bit of advice I have is that it would be best to read this book soon after you finished the first book or you may forget the premise of the story.
The character development in this book was strong and compelling. Lady Anne was, for the time period, a really formidable , compassionate, and strong woman. She was also educated which added to her uniqueness for the time. However, her being educated allowed her to save her people from the plague when townships around them were dying really fast.
Thaddeus Thurkell, although young, behaved and carried himself as though he was much older. It seemed like there was a simmering romance between him and Lady Anne.
Lady Anne wasn’t put off by men who didn’t recognise her authority. She was really able to hold her own with grace and aplomb.
Minette Walters also described the political and religious influence of the time and how this affected people’s understanding of what the plague was doing. There was a lot of belief that the people had done something wrong to be punished this way.
I really enjoyed this author’s writing style, and how she managed to draw her reader’s into the story and keep them there. I look forward to reading more of her work in the future.
Recommend for: Adults Rating: 5 stars
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