What do you think?
Rate this book
The Rev. Clare Fergusson & Russ Van Alstyne Mysteries #10
At Midnight Comes the Cry
New York Times bestseller Julia Spencer-Fleming returns to her beloved Clare Fergusson/Russ Van Alstyne mystery series
It’s Christmas time in Millers Kill, and Reverend Clare Fergusson and her husband Russ van Alstyne - newly resigned from his position as chief of police – plan to enjoy it with their baby boy. On their visiting Santa, decorating the tree, and attending the church Christmas pageant. But when a beloved holiday parade is crashed by white supremacists, Clare and Russ find themselves sucked into a parallel world of militias, machinations and murder.
Meanwhile, single mom and officer Hadley Knox has her hands full juggling her kids and her police work. She doesn’t want to worry about her former partner – and sometimes lover – Kevin Flynn, but when he takes leave from the Syracuse PD and disappears, she can’t help her growing panic that something has gone very wrong.
Novice lawyer Joy Zhào is keeping secrets from her superiors at the state Attorney General’s Office. She knows they wouldn’t condone her off-the-books investigation, but she’s convinced a threatening alt-right conspiracy is brewing – and catching the perpetrators could jump start her career.
NYS Forest Ranger Paul Terrance is looking for his uncle, a veteran of the park service gone inexplicably missing. He doesn’t think much of an ex-cop and out-of-town officer showing up in his patch of the woods, but he’s heard the disturbing rumors of dangerous men in the mountains.
In New York Times Julia Spencer-Fleming's latest novel, as Christmas approaches, these five people will discover their suspicions hang on a single twisting thread, leading to the forbidding High Peaks of the Adirondacks. As the December days shorten and the nights grow long, a disparate group of would-be heroes need to unwind a murderous plot before time runs out.
It’s Christmas time in Millers Kill, and Reverend Clare Fergusson and her husband Russ van Alstyne - newly resigned from his position as chief of police – plan to enjoy it with their baby boy. On their visiting Santa, decorating the tree, and attending the church Christmas pageant. But when a beloved holiday parade is crashed by white supremacists, Clare and Russ find themselves sucked into a parallel world of militias, machinations and murder.
Meanwhile, single mom and officer Hadley Knox has her hands full juggling her kids and her police work. She doesn’t want to worry about her former partner – and sometimes lover – Kevin Flynn, but when he takes leave from the Syracuse PD and disappears, she can’t help her growing panic that something has gone very wrong.
Novice lawyer Joy Zhào is keeping secrets from her superiors at the state Attorney General’s Office. She knows they wouldn’t condone her off-the-books investigation, but she’s convinced a threatening alt-right conspiracy is brewing – and catching the perpetrators could jump start her career.
NYS Forest Ranger Paul Terrance is looking for his uncle, a veteran of the park service gone inexplicably missing. He doesn’t think much of an ex-cop and out-of-town officer showing up in his patch of the woods, but he’s heard the disturbing rumors of dangerous men in the mountains.
In New York Times Julia Spencer-Fleming's latest novel, as Christmas approaches, these five people will discover their suspicions hang on a single twisting thread, leading to the forbidding High Peaks of the Adirondacks. As the December days shorten and the nights grow long, a disparate group of would-be heroes need to unwind a murderous plot before time runs out.
320 pages, Hardcover
First published November 18, 2025
310 people are currently reading
12105 people want to read
About the author
Julia Spencer-Fleming
27 books1,890 followersWednesday, September 7
Work-In-Progress Wednesday at my Reader Space. We're up to the fifth part of the second chapter of my eighth book, which has some numerological meaning, I'm sure. http://bit.ly/p2QwJa
Work-In-Progress Wednesday at my Reader Space. We're up to the fifth part of the second chapter of my eighth book, which has some numerological meaning, I'm sure. http://bit.ly/p2QwJa
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 280 reviews
November 3, 2025
If you’re looking for a suspenseful crime thriller set in rural up-state New York, then
At Midnight Comes the Cry
by Julia Spencer-Fleming is a book to consider reading. It features Reverend Clare Fergusson and her husband Russ Van Alstyne. It’s Christmas time and the couple plan to enjoy their eight-month-old son Ethan’s first Christmas. However, when a holiday parade is crashed by those who are racist and believe immigrants are taking jobs from others, Clare and Russ are pulled into a world of militias, murder, and plots.
Meanwhile, single mom and police officer Hadley Knox is juggling her two children, her grandfather, and her job. She’s also worried about her former partner, who has taken a leave of absence from his Syracuse police department job and has disappeared for two months. Additionally, new lawyer Joy Zhao is keeping secrets from her superiors at the state Attorney General’s office with an off-the-books investigation and New York State Forest Ranger Terrance is looking for his uncle, a veteran of the park service, who has gone missing. How these events collide makes for a suspenseful thriller.
Clare is a former military helicopter pilot and combat medic. She is now in the National Guard and an Episcopalian priest and married to Russ, former military and recently retired police chief in their small town. While this is the first book I have read in the series, it worked for me. However, there are references to events in prior books. For the full character development and background, I believe the series is best read in order.
This well-written novel has multiple layers to it and a few twists. However, the pacing was a little slow in the middle. The characterization is good and there’s a good mix of the individuals’ personal lives and the investigations. Real-world issues were incorporated into the story that added an extra layer of apprehension. The epilogue wrapped up most threads well, but there was one lingering one that I wanted resolution on that I didn’t get. Perhaps it will be in the next book. Themes include racism, murder, domestic violence, childcare, family, and community.
Overall, this is a gripping story with strong main characters, excellent world-building, and emotional moments. I’m looking forward to reading more books in this series.
St. Martin’s Press – Minotaur Books and Julia Spencer-Fleming provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own. The publication date is currently set for November 18, 2025.
---------------------------------------
My 4.05 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon.
Meanwhile, single mom and police officer Hadley Knox is juggling her two children, her grandfather, and her job. She’s also worried about her former partner, who has taken a leave of absence from his Syracuse police department job and has disappeared for two months. Additionally, new lawyer Joy Zhao is keeping secrets from her superiors at the state Attorney General’s office with an off-the-books investigation and New York State Forest Ranger Terrance is looking for his uncle, a veteran of the park service, who has gone missing. How these events collide makes for a suspenseful thriller.
Clare is a former military helicopter pilot and combat medic. She is now in the National Guard and an Episcopalian priest and married to Russ, former military and recently retired police chief in their small town. While this is the first book I have read in the series, it worked for me. However, there are references to events in prior books. For the full character development and background, I believe the series is best read in order.
This well-written novel has multiple layers to it and a few twists. However, the pacing was a little slow in the middle. The characterization is good and there’s a good mix of the individuals’ personal lives and the investigations. Real-world issues were incorporated into the story that added an extra layer of apprehension. The epilogue wrapped up most threads well, but there was one lingering one that I wanted resolution on that I didn’t get. Perhaps it will be in the next book. Themes include racism, murder, domestic violence, childcare, family, and community.
Overall, this is a gripping story with strong main characters, excellent world-building, and emotional moments. I’m looking forward to reading more books in this series.
St. Martin’s Press – Minotaur Books and Julia Spencer-Fleming provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own. The publication date is currently set for November 18, 2025.
---------------------------------------
My 4.05 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon.
November 21, 2025
It’s so hard to know that this is the series finale of a book I’ve been reading for years. While Fleming has been writing it since the early 2000s, I discovered it twenty years later when the world fell apart, and I needed to escape to something far from daily life. This series and these characters that now feel like family were just what I needed, and as a result, I feel such a strong connection to Clare, Russ, Hadley, Kevin, and the rest of the gang.
Although I did not want to say goodbye, I cannot envision a better final chapter to the story, nor a better (and more timely) police case for the team to get to the bottom of. Jarring to see current headlines pop up within the story, Spencer Fleming, as she always does, tackles the hot-button issues with the nuanced delicacy required to showcase the importance and urgency of them to the fabric of our society.
And alas, without spoiling the ultimate outcomes, I think long time readers will feel satisfied with where these beloved characters are in their lives as we close the final chapter.
🎧 I chose to do an immersive read, using both audio and print. After originally reading the series with my eyes, I took an alternate route: rereading with my ears. And though both are fantastic, I prefer print/ebook over audio. Narrator Suzanne Toren is terrific, but because I had already established these characters in my mind’s eye, her voice (of Clare) wasn’t quite what I had envisioned. That said, her narration quickly grew on me, and if you have not read the series yet, I think you cannot go wrong regardless of format.
Read if you like:
▪️comfort series
▪️engaging and relatable characters
▪️cozy thrillers,
▪️social commentary
▪️romance subplot
▪️small town life
Thank you Minotaur Books and Macmillan Audio for the gifted copies.
A huge thank you to Minotaur Books for the advanced copies of my most anticipated book of 2025.
Although I did not want to say goodbye, I cannot envision a better final chapter to the story, nor a better (and more timely) police case for the team to get to the bottom of. Jarring to see current headlines pop up within the story, Spencer Fleming, as she always does, tackles the hot-button issues with the nuanced delicacy required to showcase the importance and urgency of them to the fabric of our society.
And alas, without spoiling the ultimate outcomes, I think long time readers will feel satisfied with where these beloved characters are in their lives as we close the final chapter.
🎧 I chose to do an immersive read, using both audio and print. After originally reading the series with my eyes, I took an alternate route: rereading with my ears. And though both are fantastic, I prefer print/ebook over audio. Narrator Suzanne Toren is terrific, but because I had already established these characters in my mind’s eye, her voice (of Clare) wasn’t quite what I had envisioned. That said, her narration quickly grew on me, and if you have not read the series yet, I think you cannot go wrong regardless of format.
Read if you like:
▪️comfort series
▪️engaging and relatable characters
▪️cozy thrillers,
▪️social commentary
▪️romance subplot
▪️small town life
Thank you Minotaur Books and Macmillan Audio for the gifted copies.
A huge thank you to Minotaur Books for the advanced copies of my most anticipated book of 2025.
December 7, 2025
I am notorious for picking up a book without reading much about it and was surprised that not only is this the 10th book in a series (that didn’t matter), but also that the author tackles some pretty “hot button” issues currently facing society, including those of political extremists and religion. Set during the Christmas season in upstate New York, this story is both thrilling and chilling, full of twists, wonderful characters, and intricate mysteries.
There are multiple characters and I did find it tricky at times to keep track of who is who, but it is a buckle-up-for-the-ride kind of story. Full of action/danger, murder, nefarious villains (fascist militia), family, romance, helping others, and more, my attention was held and I almost wanted to cover my eyes at times.
Clare, the FMC, is a reverend, so religion is mentioned frequently, and there is also some language (including strong) and some violence (not graphic).
Content: some violence; moments of danger/peril; language; romance
*I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
There are multiple characters and I did find it tricky at times to keep track of who is who, but it is a buckle-up-for-the-ride kind of story. Full of action/danger, murder, nefarious villains (fascist militia), family, romance, helping others, and more, my attention was held and I almost wanted to cover my eyes at times.
Clare, the FMC, is a reverend, so religion is mentioned frequently, and there is also some language (including strong) and some violence (not graphic).
Content: some violence; moments of danger/peril; language; romance
*I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
November 5, 2025
Special thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a free, electronic ARC of this novel received in exchange for an honest review.
Expected publication date: November 18, 2025
“At Midnight Comes the Cry” is the tenth novel in the Reverend Clare Fergusson and Russ Van Alstyne mystery series of novels by Julia Spencer-Fleming. In this installment, Christmas comes to Millers Kill and Clare and her husband, former police chief Russ, look forward to the first holiday season with their infant son. When a group of white supremacists crash the Christmas parade, both Clare and Russ are drawn back into action into a world of hate, conspiracy and murder. Police officer Hadley Knox adds to the couple’s workload when she reveals that her partner, and sometimes lover, police officer Kevin Flynn, has gone missing during an undercover operation and may very well be behind enemy lines in the white supremacist camp. The three, along with young lawyer Joy Zhao and forest ranger Paul Terrance, join forces to infiltrate the camp and take them down, all while locating Kevin and keeping the community safe.
“Cry” is an intense read, especially for a storyline that takes place over the Christmas holidays. There is a lot of hate, subtle political themes, and religious undertones (which makes sense as Clare is a reverend), so, if you have a strong opinion on any of these, I recommend leaving this novel behind, as it will no doubt raise some tempers, and cause some fiery conversations. If you do jump into this novel, it won’t disappoint on the mystery front and it is most definitely full of high-octane drama and action.
There are a lot of narrators in this one, as Clare, Russ, Joy and Paul take over the plot at different points throughout the novel. There are also a lot of background characters who don’t take centre stage, but they are important enough to know, so readers should keep track of them. I found this difficult at first, especially with characters who have similar positions in the police force, but I was able to differentiate between them enough to make sense of the plot.
Spencer-Fleming is a new author for me and “Cry” was the first novel I’ve read in the Fergusson/Van Alstyne series of novels. I would’ve really liked to read the other nine novels in the series, as I definitely felt left behind and that I was missing some key character development points, which no doubt I was seeing as “Cry” is the tenth novel. There were no chapters per se, as the story had sections, but the novel was delineated by asterisks, so readers did have the oppourtunity for breaks.
“Cry” is tense, emotional, suspenseful and action-packed, but I found it challenging to tell similar characters apart. Readers of the previous novels in this series will no doubt find “Cry” far more engaging than I did.
Expected publication date: November 18, 2025
“At Midnight Comes the Cry” is the tenth novel in the Reverend Clare Fergusson and Russ Van Alstyne mystery series of novels by Julia Spencer-Fleming. In this installment, Christmas comes to Millers Kill and Clare and her husband, former police chief Russ, look forward to the first holiday season with their infant son. When a group of white supremacists crash the Christmas parade, both Clare and Russ are drawn back into action into a world of hate, conspiracy and murder. Police officer Hadley Knox adds to the couple’s workload when she reveals that her partner, and sometimes lover, police officer Kevin Flynn, has gone missing during an undercover operation and may very well be behind enemy lines in the white supremacist camp. The three, along with young lawyer Joy Zhao and forest ranger Paul Terrance, join forces to infiltrate the camp and take them down, all while locating Kevin and keeping the community safe.
“Cry” is an intense read, especially for a storyline that takes place over the Christmas holidays. There is a lot of hate, subtle political themes, and religious undertones (which makes sense as Clare is a reverend), so, if you have a strong opinion on any of these, I recommend leaving this novel behind, as it will no doubt raise some tempers, and cause some fiery conversations. If you do jump into this novel, it won’t disappoint on the mystery front and it is most definitely full of high-octane drama and action.
There are a lot of narrators in this one, as Clare, Russ, Joy and Paul take over the plot at different points throughout the novel. There are also a lot of background characters who don’t take centre stage, but they are important enough to know, so readers should keep track of them. I found this difficult at first, especially with characters who have similar positions in the police force, but I was able to differentiate between them enough to make sense of the plot.
Spencer-Fleming is a new author for me and “Cry” was the first novel I’ve read in the Fergusson/Van Alstyne series of novels. I would’ve really liked to read the other nine novels in the series, as I definitely felt left behind and that I was missing some key character development points, which no doubt I was seeing as “Cry” is the tenth novel. There were no chapters per se, as the story had sections, but the novel was delineated by asterisks, so readers did have the oppourtunity for breaks.
“Cry” is tense, emotional, suspenseful and action-packed, but I found it challenging to tell similar characters apart. Readers of the previous novels in this series will no doubt find “Cry” far more engaging than I did.
December 4, 2025
This is the 10th book in Julia Spencer-Fleming's "Rev. Clare Fergusson & Russ Van Alstyne Mysteries" series and I have loved them all.
Set during the Christmas season mayhem begins at the Christmas Parade where there is a white supremacist float and the members are handing out leaflets among the crowd. Horrific events begin to unfold and a murderous plot needs to be unwound before time runs out.
I loved revisiting all of the characters I am familiar with as well as getting to know new ones added to the story.
Excellent writing, riveting suspense - an excellent story!
Thank you Julia Spencer-Fleming for such a wonderful series!
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press/Minotaur Books for an arc of this novel in exchange for my honest review.
Set during the Christmas season mayhem begins at the Christmas Parade where there is a white supremacist float and the members are handing out leaflets among the crowd. Horrific events begin to unfold and a murderous plot needs to be unwound before time runs out.
I loved revisiting all of the characters I am familiar with as well as getting to know new ones added to the story.
Excellent writing, riveting suspense - an excellent story!
Thank you Julia Spencer-Fleming for such a wonderful series!
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press/Minotaur Books for an arc of this novel in exchange for my honest review.
December 12, 2025
Thanks to NetGalley and St Martin's Press (Minotaur Books) for this much appreciated ARC. The cover is beautiful and eye-catching., and implies the story will be a cosy, Christmas-time mystery. It addresses current issues of political extremists, with added problems of hate, conspiracy, immigration, missing people,domestic violence, religion, and murder. This is book number 10 in the series, and the first I have read. I felt I missed important character development and background, which would have been more engaging if I had read the previous books.
Clare Fergusson had a diverse character arc. She is presently an Episcopalian priest and member of the National Guard. She had been a helicopter pilot in a combat zone. I found her to be more credible as a daring pilot, and had to keep reminding myself that she was now a religious minister. I wanted to know more about her personal development and her relationship with retired police chief, Russ Van Alstyne who is now her husband. I would have felt more connected with the characters if I had read earlier books in the series.The storyline has plenty of drama, action, and suspense, and multiple characters whom the reader must attend closely to the complex plot. The story felt overlong but compelling, well-written, emotional, and with tension throughout.
Clare and Russ have a small son, Ethan, and are looking forward to the various activities in their small town of Millers Kill in upstate NY. The annual Christmas parade was spoiled by a float conaining racists attempting to distribute their messages of hate to the crowds.
There is fear that these white supremicists are engaged in an extreme right wing conspiracy against minorities and immigrants. Adding to the threat, police officer Hadley Knox, is worried about her former partner, Kevin Flynn. He has vanished after two months with the Syracuse police department. Has he been working undercover among the racist group?
Forrerst Ranger, Paul, reports that a veteran of the park service is missing.
Joy Zhao is assigned to the state attorney office. She involves herself with the possible extreme right-wing fascist threat, which is against her duties.
This was a satisfying thriller that would be more engaging for those who read some previous books in the series.
Clare Fergusson had a diverse character arc. She is presently an Episcopalian priest and member of the National Guard. She had been a helicopter pilot in a combat zone. I found her to be more credible as a daring pilot, and had to keep reminding myself that she was now a religious minister. I wanted to know more about her personal development and her relationship with retired police chief, Russ Van Alstyne who is now her husband. I would have felt more connected with the characters if I had read earlier books in the series.The storyline has plenty of drama, action, and suspense, and multiple characters whom the reader must attend closely to the complex plot. The story felt overlong but compelling, well-written, emotional, and with tension throughout.
Clare and Russ have a small son, Ethan, and are looking forward to the various activities in their small town of Millers Kill in upstate NY. The annual Christmas parade was spoiled by a float conaining racists attempting to distribute their messages of hate to the crowds.
There is fear that these white supremicists are engaged in an extreme right wing conspiracy against minorities and immigrants. Adding to the threat, police officer Hadley Knox, is worried about her former partner, Kevin Flynn. He has vanished after two months with the Syracuse police department. Has he been working undercover among the racist group?
Forrerst Ranger, Paul, reports that a veteran of the park service is missing.
Joy Zhao is assigned to the state attorney office. She involves herself with the possible extreme right-wing fascist threat, which is against her duties.
This was a satisfying thriller that would be more engaging for those who read some previous books in the series.
November 11, 2025
4.5
thank you NetGalley for the advanced readers copy!
WOW this was such a perfect cozy, small town mystery/thriller. when I requested this book, it was purely off the vibes and the storyline. I was worried when I looked it up on GR and saw that it was the tenth book in a series. let me tell you: you do NOT have to read the rest of the series to understand this one. Julia does a fabulous job of explaining who people are/the setting in a way that I don't think would at all annoy readers who have read the whole series (which makes sense since the last book came out five years ago!!).
I was hooked literally 10% in and fell in love with Millers Kill. despite being fine reading this book without the rest of the series, I will be reading the rest of the books this next year because it truly was that good
thank you NetGalley for the advanced readers copy!
WOW this was such a perfect cozy, small town mystery/thriller. when I requested this book, it was purely off the vibes and the storyline. I was worried when I looked it up on GR and saw that it was the tenth book in a series. let me tell you: you do NOT have to read the rest of the series to understand this one. Julia does a fabulous job of explaining who people are/the setting in a way that I don't think would at all annoy readers who have read the whole series (which makes sense since the last book came out five years ago!!).
I was hooked literally 10% in and fell in love with Millers Kill. despite being fine reading this book without the rest of the series, I will be reading the rest of the books this next year because it truly was that good
September 6, 2025
I didn't think we would get any more books in this series about Fergusson and Van Alstyne by Julia Spencer-Fleming. I was so glad to see that there is a new book about this unconventional duo. It is another small town setting but with some really big issues and it is wonderfully written as always. I can always tell when it's a good author because of the speed I go through the book. If the language is not very good it takes me longer to read and I take more pauses. If it wasn't for need of food and sleep I would have read this one in one sitting. I love the characters and setting. I must thank Minotaur Books and Edelweiss for giving me an advance copy. The rest of you will have to wait until November 18th.
January 11, 2026
At Midnight Comes the Cry
by Julia Spencer-Fleming is her 10th in the series where she has an engaging husband-wife detective-ish team - Clare Fergusson who is an Episcopal priest, and Russ Van Alstyne who had previously been the chief of police in Millers Kill (a fictional town in the Adirondack Mountains). This was also my first read of this author and this series. So I'm out of order.
However, I was able to stay up with the from-here-to-there happenings of this narrative. There are many characters who lean in and chat a bit, referring to things everyone in the room seems to know, but it wasn't any more displacing than when one meets new folks for the first time. It wasn't off-putting.
As the cover and title indicate, this is a tale told around winter holidays, and mixes a variety of religions, Christmas and Hanukkah. This is definitely told from a Christian perspective, with prayers and scriptures popping up at the proper times. (If one insists on murderous fiction, guidance will be offered for free, along with hot beverages and bakery goods.)
I'm in, and have already put #1 on hold. Who doesn't need a new series to read?
*A sincere thank you to Julia Spencer-Fleming, Macmillan Audio, and NetGalley for an ARC to read and review independently.* #AtMidnightComestheCry #NetGalley 26|52:39a
However, I was able to stay up with the from-here-to-there happenings of this narrative. There are many characters who lean in and chat a bit, referring to things everyone in the room seems to know, but it wasn't any more displacing than when one meets new folks for the first time. It wasn't off-putting.
As the cover and title indicate, this is a tale told around winter holidays, and mixes a variety of religions, Christmas and Hanukkah. This is definitely told from a Christian perspective, with prayers and scriptures popping up at the proper times. (If one insists on murderous fiction, guidance will be offered for free, along with hot beverages and bakery goods.)
I'm in, and have already put #1 on hold. Who doesn't need a new series to read?
*A sincere thank you to Julia Spencer-Fleming, Macmillan Audio, and NetGalley for an ARC to read and review independently.* #AtMidnightComestheCry #NetGalley 26|52:39a
November 20, 2025
*4.5 stars rounded up. This mystery-suspense thriller has everything: murder, action, mayhem, evil bad guys (fascist militia men), love, romance, family, religion, all set in the joyful holiday season. I've always enjoyed this series and these remarkable characters and now this latest one ranks as my favorite.
Many thanks to the author and publisher for providing me with an arc of this new novel via NetGalley. My review is voluntary and the opinions expressed are my own.
Many thanks to the author and publisher for providing me with an arc of this new novel via NetGalley. My review is voluntary and the opinions expressed are my own.
December 18, 2025
It's more a 3,5 stars because the last part was tiring. While I recognize that the author was meticulous in details and admire her work, it was tiring.
I adore Clare, how she's such a good person, determined to help whatever the circumstances are. She's determined, resourceful, not easily scared and so much funny. It was a pleasure to see her again, and Russ, in this new book.
Unfortunately, the theme of this book is very real and present in our days: white supremacists groups, racism, prejudice, hate...
The last chapter was such a gift, I adored it.
I adore Clare, how she's such a good person, determined to help whatever the circumstances are. She's determined, resourceful, not easily scared and so much funny. It was a pleasure to see her again, and Russ, in this new book.
Unfortunately, the theme of this book is very real and present in our days: white supremacists groups, racism, prejudice, hate...
The last chapter was such a gift, I adored it.
August 21, 2025
I received a free copy of, At Midnight Comes the Cry, by Julia Spencer-Fleming, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. This book is set in Millers Kill during the Christmas season, and a lot is going on, not all good. This is not a warm and fuzzy Christmas read at all. This was a good read.
September 24, 2025
My first experience with an exceptionally well written thriller featuring an unconventional team that evidently has been around for a while. Clare, a former police officer and helicopter pilot stationed in Iraq now an Episcopal priest and her partner Russ, retired police chief, along with their baby Ethan. Apparently they've moved to upper state New York and find themselves up against a nest of white supremacists. Very impressive descriptions of action set pieces as well as character development across the board.
November 16, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
At Midnight Comes The Cry
Author: Julia Fleming-Spencer
Source: Netgalley
Publication Date: Nov. 18, 2025
As a practicing Anglican parishioner, I enjoy following this series featuring our lead protagonist Clare, the priest, and her retired police husband Russ. This is a series of books, and they’re all good, with just the right blend of solving crimes, helping people, helping church members, and trying to bring their community together. I like that it is a more mature couple, and they have a new baby, and both have a military background, which makes for some interesting situations. This book was excellent and dealt with a malicious style group that sought to sow chaos in their community. Always enjoyable, and I love this one set during the Advent season.
#atmidnightcomesthecry #crime #crimesolving #racism #batterspouse #militia #missingpoliceofficers #life #love #community #family @netgalley @juliaflemingspencer @minotaur
I received a complimentary copy of this book. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own. Thank you to the publisher, Netgalley, and the author for the opportunity to read this novel.
At Midnight Comes The Cry
Author: Julia Fleming-Spencer
Source: Netgalley
Publication Date: Nov. 18, 2025
As a practicing Anglican parishioner, I enjoy following this series featuring our lead protagonist Clare, the priest, and her retired police husband Russ. This is a series of books, and they’re all good, with just the right blend of solving crimes, helping people, helping church members, and trying to bring their community together. I like that it is a more mature couple, and they have a new baby, and both have a military background, which makes for some interesting situations. This book was excellent and dealt with a malicious style group that sought to sow chaos in their community. Always enjoyable, and I love this one set during the Advent season.
#atmidnightcomesthecry #crime #crimesolving #racism #batterspouse #militia #missingpoliceofficers #life #love #community #family @netgalley @juliaflemingspencer @minotaur
I received a complimentary copy of this book. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own. Thank you to the publisher, Netgalley, and the author for the opportunity to read this novel.
October 19, 2025
Millers Kill Reverend Clare Ferguson and husband Russ Van Alstyne, recently retired as police chief, and both military veterans, attend a Christmas parade when a white supremacist participant and others’ response to him escalates into a fight that Russ breaks up. Clare reaches out to the man’s wife, and the couple soon find themselves in danger as they investigate a local militia.
This is the tenth in a series; I have read only one prior installment. This would work as a stand alone.
The writing is well-crafted, and the story engaging. Spencer-Fleming effectively captures the essence of small-town upstate New York. In referring to the supporting characters, the author frequently alternates between using their first and last names; initially, I had to pay close attention to distinguish who was who. When the manhunt moves outdoors and the militia is being tracked, there is a lot of run on detail and I found myself skimming a bit.
Despite these minor issues, the topic of the story is important and timely. It’s also a bit frightening because it reflects reality.
Thanks to @NetGalley and @StMartinsPress @Minotaur_Books for the DRC.
This is the tenth in a series; I have read only one prior installment. This would work as a stand alone.
The writing is well-crafted, and the story engaging. Spencer-Fleming effectively captures the essence of small-town upstate New York. In referring to the supporting characters, the author frequently alternates between using their first and last names; initially, I had to pay close attention to distinguish who was who. When the manhunt moves outdoors and the militia is being tracked, there is a lot of run on detail and I found myself skimming a bit.
Despite these minor issues, the topic of the story is important and timely. It’s also a bit frightening because it reflects reality.
Thanks to @NetGalley and @StMartinsPress @Minotaur_Books for the DRC.
November 13, 2025
I believe this is the first I’ve read by this author, and wow, it was intense!!
There are multiple MAIN characters, and they each have their own flaws as well as wonderful attributes… but, it seems like they should NOT be working together on this particular project. And yet, here they are, and it seems like the entire world is IN THEIR HANDS!!
We have a very recently retired Chief Of Police, as well as his wife, a Priest, and their baby boy.
Then we have a young female police officer who is in search of her old partner who seems to have gone off the grid.. and no one, not even his parents, have heard from him for months!
Then we have an Indian Park Ranger who is in search of his missing Uncle. He’s also a Park Ranger with many years on the job… and when he’s been missing for about a day, the nephew starts to worry…
Add to this that there seems to be a huge uprising of White Supremacists in this small, really upstate NY town that’s out in the boondocks… and, well, we seem to have a recipe for disaster…
There’s also a young, female, Asian Lawyer in the mix, who’s friends with the Priest…
This is a fast-paced, nail-biting story that will keep you glued your seat, and the pages!!
4 1/2 stars for me, happily rounded up to 5!! 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
#AtMidnightComesTheCry by @JuliaSpencerFleming and narrated beautifully by (an Angela Lansbury double, imo….) @SuzanneToren.
*** This one has NOT BEEN RELEASED YET, please look 👀 for it in a few days on 11/18/25!! ***
Thanks so much to @NetGalley and @MacmillanAudio for an ALC of the audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
You can find my reviews on: Goodreads,
Instagram: @BookReviews_with_emsr and/or
My Facebook Book Club: Book Reviews With Elaine
Thanks so much for reading! And if you ‘liked’ my review, please share with your friends, & click ‘LIKE’ below… And, let me know YOUR thoughts if you read it!! 📚⭐️
There are multiple MAIN characters, and they each have their own flaws as well as wonderful attributes… but, it seems like they should NOT be working together on this particular project. And yet, here they are, and it seems like the entire world is IN THEIR HANDS!!
We have a very recently retired Chief Of Police, as well as his wife, a Priest, and their baby boy.
Then we have a young female police officer who is in search of her old partner who seems to have gone off the grid.. and no one, not even his parents, have heard from him for months!
Then we have an Indian Park Ranger who is in search of his missing Uncle. He’s also a Park Ranger with many years on the job… and when he’s been missing for about a day, the nephew starts to worry…
Add to this that there seems to be a huge uprising of White Supremacists in this small, really upstate NY town that’s out in the boondocks… and, well, we seem to have a recipe for disaster…
There’s also a young, female, Asian Lawyer in the mix, who’s friends with the Priest…
This is a fast-paced, nail-biting story that will keep you glued your seat, and the pages!!
4 1/2 stars for me, happily rounded up to 5!! 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
#AtMidnightComesTheCry by @JuliaSpencerFleming and narrated beautifully by (an Angela Lansbury double, imo….) @SuzanneToren.
*** This one has NOT BEEN RELEASED YET, please look 👀 for it in a few days on 11/18/25!! ***
Thanks so much to @NetGalley and @MacmillanAudio for an ALC of the audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
You can find my reviews on: Goodreads,
Instagram: @BookReviews_with_emsr and/or
My Facebook Book Club: Book Reviews With Elaine
Thanks so much for reading! And if you ‘liked’ my review, please share with your friends, & click ‘LIKE’ below… And, let me know YOUR thoughts if you read it!! 📚⭐️
October 9, 2025
I started this series with the tenth book. I think each one focuses on a different story, in which Reverend Clare and her husband Russ undertake a dangerous mission.
While Clare focuses on Tina, a young mother with an abusive husband, her husband, Russ, and police officer Hadley Knox investigate the disappearance of a fellow officer. Both cases point to a militia group forming in the area. This isn't how Clare and Russ planned to spend their first Christmas with their son.
I really liked Clare. I hadn't read the previous books in this series, but she surprised me at every turn. She's not only a loving mother and supportive wife, but also a caring person who did everything in her power to rescue a young mother and her daughter from an abusive relationship. She's a pastor who cares for her parishioners, a brave former pilot who served in Afghanistan, and a woman with a sense of humor.
An interesting small town mystery with a priest and a cop in the lead roles.
I recommend reading this series in order so you don't miss out on the personal lives of Clare Fergusson and Russ Van Alstyne.
While Clare focuses on Tina, a young mother with an abusive husband, her husband, Russ, and police officer Hadley Knox investigate the disappearance of a fellow officer. Both cases point to a militia group forming in the area. This isn't how Clare and Russ planned to spend their first Christmas with their son.
I really liked Clare. I hadn't read the previous books in this series, but she surprised me at every turn. She's not only a loving mother and supportive wife, but also a caring person who did everything in her power to rescue a young mother and her daughter from an abusive relationship. She's a pastor who cares for her parishioners, a brave former pilot who served in Afghanistan, and a woman with a sense of humor.
An interesting small town mystery with a priest and a cop in the lead roles.
I recommend reading this series in order so you don't miss out on the personal lives of Clare Fergusson and Russ Van Alstyne.
November 16, 2025
Many thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for an ARC of this novel.
It’s hard to believe that this is already the tenth in the author’s beloved Rev. Clare Fergusson and Russ Van Alstyne mystery series. I can’t say that I’ve read each installment, and, although the author does provide a bit of backstory for the leading characters and their actions in the current adventure, I would not recommend this book as a starting point. This is especially the case if you want to understand Clare, Russ, and how they got together.
The Fergusson-Van Alstynes, as book 10 begins, have just celebrated their first anniversary, and have a beautiful eight month old baby, Ethan. They live in upper New York State, in the rural town of Millers Kills. Despite the name, it is considered a snug and cozy, perfectly safe little place to settle and raise a family. Clare and Russ and baby are a snug and cozy little family. Or so most would assume, given that she’s an Episcopal priest and he’s the now-retired former Chief of Police. They share a background in the armed forces, and were both deployed to Iraq, where Clare was a helicopter pilot.
Now that they have a baby, they want nothing so much as to live a ‘normal’ quiet life. The Christmas season is about to begin, and they are looking forward to the kick-off Lighted Tractor Parade. The fun is immediately tempered by the participation of white supremacists promoting their cause with their own tractor, banners and leaflets. They are immediately drawn in to break up a fight. Clare, performing her duty as local pastor, tries to mediate. She arranges to meet socially with two of the supremacist women, figuring that, as a wife and mother, as well as a pastor, she could lead them to see their error.
While Clare is occupied ostensibly doing her job, Russ is trying to adjust to his recent, not exactly voluntary, retirement. Although he swears he’s left policing behind him, he jumps enthusiastically into a case involving two former MKPF colleagues. Hadley Knox, anxious about the seeming disappearance of Kevin Flynn, an undercover cop and sometime lover, seeks Russ’s help to find him. approaches him for help in finding their colleague and her sometimes lover, Flynn. Looking for information, they locate Flynn’s assistant, the young lawyer/federal agent Joy (Yixin) Zhao. She tells them what they were tasked to do: find the big players among the disparate groups planning to rid the US of the immigrants (especially Jews) they resent. And how, when the mission was suddenly aborted, she and Flynn continued it on their own.
Clare’s ‘work’ with the women and Hadley and Russ’s mission to find Flynn converge over the murder of an Indigenous State Park Ranger in the Adirondack Mountains. His nephew, Paul Terrance, also a ranger, joins forces with them to find him. They do, but too late. Meanwhile, they haven’t found Flynn or any militia leaders, but Clare is getting closer.
The story becomes increasingly dark and intense as the storylines converge and it becomes evident that these people are not merely making a point about their right to presumed right to power just for being white and American-born. Did Flynn meet his fate at the hands of the groups he was attempting to infiltrate? Who killed the elderly Ranger who had patrolled the Adirondacks since childhood without encountering violence? Are these social outliers disturbed enough to plan a serious terrorist attack? Is Clare’s embedding herself within the wives’ circle endangering them all?
Julia Spencer-Fleming is a skilled writer who can juggle half a dozen leading characters and a complicated plot with style. I did find myself occasionally confused when names and last names were inconsistently used, and, being Canadian, I didn’t recognize some of the agency and police acronyms. One that everyone will recognize is ICE, whose policies are increasingly terroristic themselves. That’s where this book really hits home: it’s no cozy Christmas story but a white knuckle, all too real ride.
It’s hard to believe that this is already the tenth in the author’s beloved Rev. Clare Fergusson and Russ Van Alstyne mystery series. I can’t say that I’ve read each installment, and, although the author does provide a bit of backstory for the leading characters and their actions in the current adventure, I would not recommend this book as a starting point. This is especially the case if you want to understand Clare, Russ, and how they got together.
The Fergusson-Van Alstynes, as book 10 begins, have just celebrated their first anniversary, and have a beautiful eight month old baby, Ethan. They live in upper New York State, in the rural town of Millers Kills. Despite the name, it is considered a snug and cozy, perfectly safe little place to settle and raise a family. Clare and Russ and baby are a snug and cozy little family. Or so most would assume, given that she’s an Episcopal priest and he’s the now-retired former Chief of Police. They share a background in the armed forces, and were both deployed to Iraq, where Clare was a helicopter pilot.
Now that they have a baby, they want nothing so much as to live a ‘normal’ quiet life. The Christmas season is about to begin, and they are looking forward to the kick-off Lighted Tractor Parade. The fun is immediately tempered by the participation of white supremacists promoting their cause with their own tractor, banners and leaflets. They are immediately drawn in to break up a fight. Clare, performing her duty as local pastor, tries to mediate. She arranges to meet socially with two of the supremacist women, figuring that, as a wife and mother, as well as a pastor, she could lead them to see their error.
While Clare is occupied ostensibly doing her job, Russ is trying to adjust to his recent, not exactly voluntary, retirement. Although he swears he’s left policing behind him, he jumps enthusiastically into a case involving two former MKPF colleagues. Hadley Knox, anxious about the seeming disappearance of Kevin Flynn, an undercover cop and sometime lover, seeks Russ’s help to find him. approaches him for help in finding their colleague and her sometimes lover, Flynn. Looking for information, they locate Flynn’s assistant, the young lawyer/federal agent Joy (Yixin) Zhao. She tells them what they were tasked to do: find the big players among the disparate groups planning to rid the US of the immigrants (especially Jews) they resent. And how, when the mission was suddenly aborted, she and Flynn continued it on their own.
Clare’s ‘work’ with the women and Hadley and Russ’s mission to find Flynn converge over the murder of an Indigenous State Park Ranger in the Adirondack Mountains. His nephew, Paul Terrance, also a ranger, joins forces with them to find him. They do, but too late. Meanwhile, they haven’t found Flynn or any militia leaders, but Clare is getting closer.
The story becomes increasingly dark and intense as the storylines converge and it becomes evident that these people are not merely making a point about their right to presumed right to power just for being white and American-born. Did Flynn meet his fate at the hands of the groups he was attempting to infiltrate? Who killed the elderly Ranger who had patrolled the Adirondacks since childhood without encountering violence? Are these social outliers disturbed enough to plan a serious terrorist attack? Is Clare’s embedding herself within the wives’ circle endangering them all?
Julia Spencer-Fleming is a skilled writer who can juggle half a dozen leading characters and a complicated plot with style. I did find myself occasionally confused when names and last names were inconsistently used, and, being Canadian, I didn’t recognize some of the agency and police acronyms. One that everyone will recognize is ICE, whose policies are increasingly terroristic themselves. That’s where this book really hits home: it’s no cozy Christmas story but a white knuckle, all too real ride.
September 6, 2025
Not a warm and fuzzy Christmas read!
When a series features as main characters a police chief and a female Episcopal priest who has served as an Army Blackhawk pilot in a combat zone, readers know this is not going to be your typical “thriller” novel. It is better described as a mainstream series whose plots center on police situations and procedures. I have read and enjoyed a number of the books.
The setting in the small town of Millers Kill in upstate New York is nicely drawn as always.
The best part of the series, though, is the characters. Now husband and wife, Claire and Russ have interesting personal connections by virtue of the small-town atmosphere and their careers in law enforcement and clerical service. Both their personalities and those of the people around them and their relationships are nicely portrayed and make this a very credible cast. Russ and Claire’s own “cast of characters” has recently been expanded even further as a result of the arrival of their son Ethan, and the joys and frustrations of parenthood are fun to read.
It took a while for the plot to develop, and for me the story line was the weakest part of the book. The book description alerts readers that a group of right-wing white supremacists are putting a damper on the town’s upcoming Christmas holiday celebrations, so I was expecting perhaps something a little worse than a disgruntled relative knocking off Aunt Jane for the inheritance, but the violence and nastiness went beyond what I expected and included things like physical and sexual spousal abuse. It seriously affected my personal enjoyment of the book to the extent that I considered not finishing it, but readers less sensitive than I are likely to find it well done.
Since I enjoyed a number of earlier books in the series quite a bit, I will be on the lookout for future instalments, but I hope appropriate warnings will be provided for the squeamish like me.
I received an advance review copy of this book from NetGalley and Minotaur Books.
When a series features as main characters a police chief and a female Episcopal priest who has served as an Army Blackhawk pilot in a combat zone, readers know this is not going to be your typical “thriller” novel. It is better described as a mainstream series whose plots center on police situations and procedures. I have read and enjoyed a number of the books.
The setting in the small town of Millers Kill in upstate New York is nicely drawn as always.
The best part of the series, though, is the characters. Now husband and wife, Claire and Russ have interesting personal connections by virtue of the small-town atmosphere and their careers in law enforcement and clerical service. Both their personalities and those of the people around them and their relationships are nicely portrayed and make this a very credible cast. Russ and Claire’s own “cast of characters” has recently been expanded even further as a result of the arrival of their son Ethan, and the joys and frustrations of parenthood are fun to read.
It took a while for the plot to develop, and for me the story line was the weakest part of the book. The book description alerts readers that a group of right-wing white supremacists are putting a damper on the town’s upcoming Christmas holiday celebrations, so I was expecting perhaps something a little worse than a disgruntled relative knocking off Aunt Jane for the inheritance, but the violence and nastiness went beyond what I expected and included things like physical and sexual spousal abuse. It seriously affected my personal enjoyment of the book to the extent that I considered not finishing it, but readers less sensitive than I are likely to find it well done.
Since I enjoyed a number of earlier books in the series quite a bit, I will be on the lookout for future instalments, but I hope appropriate warnings will be provided for the squeamish like me.
I received an advance review copy of this book from NetGalley and Minotaur Books.
January 11, 2026
This is the 10th (and maybe final?) book in the excellent mystery series featuring Rev Clare Fergusson - an Episcopalian priest and former Blackhawk pilot and her husband, former police chief Russ Van Alstyne. It's the beginning of Advent, white supremacism had reared its ugly head at a Christmas parade in the small town of Miller's Kill, NY. A former officer on Russ' team has gone missing, possibly while working undercover. Plot ensues and as the Christmas season progresses, it is clear that evil exists simultaneously with good. This was an excellent, fast-paced mystery/thriller - although the topic is hitting way too close to home this week. This is a series I have loved and I was so happy to get at least one more installment with the characters.
January 12, 2026
I loved this book. It was wonderful to be back with Clare and Russ in Millers Kill and St. Albans. I especially loved the region the story is based on. It is familiar to me and my family. I could picture the scenery so clearly. The story was another excellent written thriller/mystery by Julia Spencer-Fleming. I am sad it is the last one in the series. I will now share this book with family so we can all chat about it!
Read
January 3, 2026First 📖 of 2026!
I really like this series though this one made me a bit sad with how realistic and present the anti semitism and white nationalism was. I like how familiar the Glens Falls Albany and Lake placid places are.
I really like this series though this one made me a bit sad with how realistic and present the anti semitism and white nationalism was. I like how familiar the Glens Falls Albany and Lake placid places are.
December 28, 2025
DNF: too political even for me as a progressive liberal. Very much in your face and I’m trying to avoid that in my fiction.
January 6, 2026
My husband introduced me to this series years ago, and I was thrilled for this new one as it's been a few years since the last. As good as ever!!
January 4, 2026
Latest Clare Ferguson/ Russ Van Alstyne murder book does not disappoint! Could not put down!
January 3, 2026
Searching for white supremacist terrorists in the Adirondacks.
June 17, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review the new book in Julia Spencer-Fleming's great Rev. Clare Fergusson & Russ Van Alstyne Mysteries series. This is number 10 in the series, and comes five years after "Hid From Our Eyes". But she hasn't missed a beat, as we're right back with Clare and Russ (and their son Ethan) in the town of Millers Kill.
Russ has now been (forcibly) retired, but as always itching for action, so when one of his former deputies suddenly drops from site - after having been undercover with white supremacists - he happily joins with Hadley Knox, picking up a Park Ranger along the way, and ends up himself in the world of militias and white supremacy.
Meanwhile, Clare - preparing for Christmas as it fast approaches - also becomes entangled in that world, along with an young lawyer from the Attorney General's office, who is investigating off the books.
And what they all begin to uncover could lead to an absolutely horrific terrorist attack so close to two major religious events - Hannukah and Christmas.
I have read and loved all of the previous books in this series, and liked this one just as much. Although I did spend an inordinate amount of time screaming ' don't do that'! (Much like in horror movies where the unwitting teen ends up the victim of a serial killer/vampire/zombie).
You don't have to have read all of the previous books in the series - but it wouldn't hurt. Recommended.
Russ has now been (forcibly) retired, but as always itching for action, so when one of his former deputies suddenly drops from site - after having been undercover with white supremacists - he happily joins with Hadley Knox, picking up a Park Ranger along the way, and ends up himself in the world of militias and white supremacy.
Meanwhile, Clare - preparing for Christmas as it fast approaches - also becomes entangled in that world, along with an young lawyer from the Attorney General's office, who is investigating off the books.
And what they all begin to uncover could lead to an absolutely horrific terrorist attack so close to two major religious events - Hannukah and Christmas.
I have read and loved all of the previous books in this series, and liked this one just as much. Although I did spend an inordinate amount of time screaming ' don't do that'! (Much like in horror movies where the unwitting teen ends up the victim of a serial killer/vampire/zombie).
You don't have to have read all of the previous books in the series - but it wouldn't hurt. Recommended.
July 8, 2025
I am thrilled to be reading another installment in the Clare Fergusson/Russ Van Alstyne series—and set during Christmas. Russ and Clare are married with an infant, Ethan. Russ has recently retired from the Millers Kill police force. The family is at an annual holiday parade, which was hijacked by a white supremacy group spreading leaflets among the crowd.
Meanwhile Hadley Knox continues on the police force, but is worried about her former partner, Kevin Flynn, whom no one has heard from in months, including his current employer, the Syracuse PD. Hadley and Russ start making inquiries and meet Yixin Zhao, a newbie in the state Attorney General’s office. Zhao tells them that she and Flynn had been working on an anti-extremist task force which was disbanding. She believes Flynn continued his undercover role on his own.
During a search off the grid in the Adirondacks, Russ stumbles into the supremacists’ training camp. Although busy with liturgical duties during Advent, Clare manages to befriend a wife of a supremacist, bonding of course over their babies. The novel is organized by the four Sundays of Advent. As the weeks unfold, the friends realize the militia group is planning a massive terrorist attack, but where? And when?
I loved catching up with the recurring characters in the series. I hope to see more of the young attorney, Yixin Zhao, and Forest Ranger Paul Terrance in future books. I appreciate the author’s efforts to humanize a few of the supremacists and examine reasons why that path attracts some followers.
Meanwhile Hadley Knox continues on the police force, but is worried about her former partner, Kevin Flynn, whom no one has heard from in months, including his current employer, the Syracuse PD. Hadley and Russ start making inquiries and meet Yixin Zhao, a newbie in the state Attorney General’s office. Zhao tells them that she and Flynn had been working on an anti-extremist task force which was disbanding. She believes Flynn continued his undercover role on his own.
During a search off the grid in the Adirondacks, Russ stumbles into the supremacists’ training camp. Although busy with liturgical duties during Advent, Clare manages to befriend a wife of a supremacist, bonding of course over their babies. The novel is organized by the four Sundays of Advent. As the weeks unfold, the friends realize the militia group is planning a massive terrorist attack, but where? And when?
I loved catching up with the recurring characters in the series. I hope to see more of the young attorney, Yixin Zhao, and Forest Ranger Paul Terrance in future books. I appreciate the author’s efforts to humanize a few of the supremacists and examine reasons why that path attracts some followers.
June 29, 2025
My first thought upon finishing At Midnight Comes the Cry was that I wanted to go back to the first page and read it again. It has been 5 years since Julia Spencer-Fleming last published a book in her Miller's Kill series and I was wondering if this new book would retain the author's gift of dialog and sense of place that her previous 9 novels had. It did and she has. It was great to be back with Army pilot/Episcopal priest Claire, former police chief Russ, and so many other characters I have come to feel I know personally. As always there is a social issue at the core; this time the problem of the rise of a self proclaimed malitia intent on causing harm to Jews and immigrants. At times this book reads like a thriller, lots of action and a few moments of impulsive probably not the best decision making.
I can only hope this is not the end of the series but the lack of Mrs. Spencer-Flemimg's usual cliff hanger leaves me wondering. Regardless, if you have not read this series start at the beginning and read them all. They are that good!
I can only hope this is not the end of the series but the lack of Mrs. Spencer-Flemimg's usual cliff hanger leaves me wondering. Regardless, if you have not read this series start at the beginning and read them all. They are that good!
December 12, 2025
📚At Midnight Comes The Cry
✍🏻Julia Spencer-Fleming
Blurb:
New York Times bestseller Julia Spencer-Fleming returns to her beloved Clare Fergusson/Russ Van Alstyne mystery series
It’s Christmas time in Millers Kill, and Reverend Clare Fergusson and her husband Russ van Alstyne - newly resigned from his position as chief of police – plan to enjoy it with their baby boy. On their visiting Santa, decorating the tree, and attending the church Christmas pageant. But when a beloved holiday parade is crashed by white supremacists, Clare and Russ find themselves sucked into a parallel world of militias, machinations and murder.
Meanwhile, single mom and officer Hadley Knox has her hands full juggling her kids and her police work. She doesn’t want to worry about her former partner – and sometimes lover – Kevin Flynn, but when he takes leave from the Syracuse PD and disappears, she can’t help her growing panic that something has gone very wrong.
Novice lawyer Joy Zhào is keeping secrets from her superiors at the state Attorney General’s Office. She knows they wouldn’t condone her off-the-books investigation, but she’s convinced a threatening alt-right conspiracy is brewing – and catching the perpetrators could jump start her career.
NYS Forest Ranger Paul Terrance is looking for his uncle, a veteran of the park service gone inexplicably missing. He doesn’t think much of an ex-cop and out-of-town officer showing up in his patch of the woods, but he’s heard the disturbing rumors of dangerous men in the mountains.
In New York Times Julia Spencer-Fleming's latest novel, as Christmas approaches, these five people will discover their suspicions hang on a single twisting thread, leading to the forbidding High Peaks of the Adirondacks. As the December days shorten and the nights grow long, a disparate group of would-be heroes need to unwind a murderous plot before time runs out.
My Thoughts:
Russ should be easing into retirement. Clare just wants to help a young mother. Instead, husband and wife find themselves tangled with the same violent, racist militia for two very different reasons. When their paths collide, they’re suddenly racing to stop a deadly plot before it explodes.Claire and Russ are at a holiday parade where one of the floats is put on by white supremacists. Claire actually reaches out to one of the couples. Meanwhile, Kevin Flynn has gone MIA after his undercover job was axed and Russ uses his time now that he’s retired to try and track him down. Hadley Knox helps Russ with the search.. Clare took the high road and befriended the woman from the float. She made a lunch date at their home and convinced Russ to be pleasant. He discovered, much to his surprise, that he enjoyed himself and liked these people very much. While there they met a man who would feature prominently in his future as he and Clare both got involved, albeit in different ways, with these people.
A frightening book, in that people like these exist and are determined to win, at any cost. Danger loomed. Clare’s involvement was with an abused woman and her child while, Russ’s was more in the nitty gritty of violence. It took some investigating and some quick thinking, but this odd couple, who very much fit together, managed to infiltrate and work on solving problems. At Midnight Comes the Cry was such a satisfying read, start to finish
Thanks NetGalley, Minotaur Books and Author Julia Spencer-Fleming for the advanced copy of "At Midnight Comes the Cry" I am leaving my voluntary review in appreciation.
#NetGalley
#MinotaurBooks
#JuliaSpencer-Fleming
#AtMidnightComestheCry
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
⚠️Trigger Warnings: Racism, Religion, Terrorism, and Domestic violence
✍🏻Julia Spencer-Fleming
Blurb:
New York Times bestseller Julia Spencer-Fleming returns to her beloved Clare Fergusson/Russ Van Alstyne mystery series
It’s Christmas time in Millers Kill, and Reverend Clare Fergusson and her husband Russ van Alstyne - newly resigned from his position as chief of police – plan to enjoy it with their baby boy. On their visiting Santa, decorating the tree, and attending the church Christmas pageant. But when a beloved holiday parade is crashed by white supremacists, Clare and Russ find themselves sucked into a parallel world of militias, machinations and murder.
Meanwhile, single mom and officer Hadley Knox has her hands full juggling her kids and her police work. She doesn’t want to worry about her former partner – and sometimes lover – Kevin Flynn, but when he takes leave from the Syracuse PD and disappears, she can’t help her growing panic that something has gone very wrong.
Novice lawyer Joy Zhào is keeping secrets from her superiors at the state Attorney General’s Office. She knows they wouldn’t condone her off-the-books investigation, but she’s convinced a threatening alt-right conspiracy is brewing – and catching the perpetrators could jump start her career.
NYS Forest Ranger Paul Terrance is looking for his uncle, a veteran of the park service gone inexplicably missing. He doesn’t think much of an ex-cop and out-of-town officer showing up in his patch of the woods, but he’s heard the disturbing rumors of dangerous men in the mountains.
In New York Times Julia Spencer-Fleming's latest novel, as Christmas approaches, these five people will discover their suspicions hang on a single twisting thread, leading to the forbidding High Peaks of the Adirondacks. As the December days shorten and the nights grow long, a disparate group of would-be heroes need to unwind a murderous plot before time runs out.
My Thoughts:
Russ should be easing into retirement. Clare just wants to help a young mother. Instead, husband and wife find themselves tangled with the same violent, racist militia for two very different reasons. When their paths collide, they’re suddenly racing to stop a deadly plot before it explodes.Claire and Russ are at a holiday parade where one of the floats is put on by white supremacists. Claire actually reaches out to one of the couples. Meanwhile, Kevin Flynn has gone MIA after his undercover job was axed and Russ uses his time now that he’s retired to try and track him down. Hadley Knox helps Russ with the search.. Clare took the high road and befriended the woman from the float. She made a lunch date at their home and convinced Russ to be pleasant. He discovered, much to his surprise, that he enjoyed himself and liked these people very much. While there they met a man who would feature prominently in his future as he and Clare both got involved, albeit in different ways, with these people.
A frightening book, in that people like these exist and are determined to win, at any cost. Danger loomed. Clare’s involvement was with an abused woman and her child while, Russ’s was more in the nitty gritty of violence. It took some investigating and some quick thinking, but this odd couple, who very much fit together, managed to infiltrate and work on solving problems. At Midnight Comes the Cry was such a satisfying read, start to finish
Thanks NetGalley, Minotaur Books and Author Julia Spencer-Fleming for the advanced copy of "At Midnight Comes the Cry" I am leaving my voluntary review in appreciation.
#NetGalley
#MinotaurBooks
#JuliaSpencer-Fleming
#AtMidnightComestheCry
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
⚠️Trigger Warnings: Racism, Religion, Terrorism, and Domestic violence
Displaying 1 - 30 of 280 reviews