Midnight Is the Darkest Hour

Bonnie & Clyde

I have to admit, this book marks a significant upturn in my reading experience. Being a discerning critic when it comes to thrillers and spooky tales, I can confidently assert that “Midnight Is the Darkest Hour” by Ashley Winstead shines as a remarkable 5-star read. I devoured all 12 hours of this audiobook within a mere three days, and I've been enthusiastically recommending it to my book-loving colleagues and friends who savor the authentic essence of true crime in their literature. Allow me to paint a vivid picture of this outstanding narrative.

Step into the intriguing world of Bottom Springs, Louisiana, a place where religiosity reigns supreme and where the devil and the mythical Low Man inspire equal trepidation among the townsfolk. Here, the daughter of a devoted pastor and the offspring of a sinner share an unbreakable bond forged by love and shared blood. When a battered skull is discovered in the swamp, adorned with enigmatic symbols etched onto the surrounding trees, the town's well-concealed secrets and underlying ugliness are poised to explode into the light.

This book, my friends, was an unexpected delight! I can't quite put my finger on what I anticipated, but it certainly wasn't this stunning, dark Southern Gothic tale, interwoven with a sinister undercurrent that flows through its entrancing prose. While it may not be a rapid-paced, twisty thriller, its deliberate pacing is the perfect accompaniment to this enthralling exploration of religious fanaticism, hypocrisy, power struggles, and misogyny, all threaded with a long-buried murder mystery. Ashley Winstead has excelled in infusing feminist themes into her narratives, and this offering stands as proof of her remarkable talent.

Experiencing this story in audiobook format elevated my enjoyment to another level. Narrator Sarah Welborn brings the characters, particularly Ruth and the town of Bottom Springs, to life with remarkable finesse. Her accent and rhythm contribute to the haunting ambiance, making me feel completely immersed in the narrative.

I extend my heartfelt gratitude to NetGalley and Tantor Audio for granting me the privilege of delving into this audiobook ahead of its release.