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The Midnight Stars Saga #3
When Stars Dream at Midnight
Unveiled truths. Unrequited love. A world torn apart.
Mireille
When war threatened Europe, my parents sent me from our vineyard in France to safety in America, where I found a new life, with friends who become family. But even in a land untouched by the bombs, the shadows of war loomed over my heart. As secrets from my past emerge and the world around me is torn apart, I must confront the grief of loss, the weight of duty, and the delicate balance between love and loyalty.
Peter
I’ve always stood in the background—quiet, loyal, and resigned to love a woman I could never have. While her heart belonged to my best friend, mine was hers, a silent devotion that I buried beneath duty and the horrors of war. When tragedy sends me home, scarred and broken, I don’t expect to find healing in the life I left behind. But as grief turns into something deeper, I must decide if I have the courage to face a future shaped by love, hope, and loss.
The third installment in the Midnight Stars Saga follows Mireille Perrin, the baby Estelle entrusted to her twin sister Mauve in When Stars Fall at Midnight. Now grown and navigating the heartache of war, Mireille’s journey will unearth family truths, test her resilience, and challenge her heart in ways she never expected.
In this American Historical romance, Tess Thompson delivers a heartwarming, sweeping family saga filled with long- buried family secrets, unspoken desires, and characters torn between love and duty. A clean wartime that explores the power of second chances and healing nature of love is perfect for fans of 1940s historical fiction and WWII love stories. This sweet, inspirational tale will tug at heartstrings while reminding readers of the enduring resilience of the human spirit.
Mireille
When war threatened Europe, my parents sent me from our vineyard in France to safety in America, where I found a new life, with friends who become family. But even in a land untouched by the bombs, the shadows of war loomed over my heart. As secrets from my past emerge and the world around me is torn apart, I must confront the grief of loss, the weight of duty, and the delicate balance between love and loyalty.
Peter
I’ve always stood in the background—quiet, loyal, and resigned to love a woman I could never have. While her heart belonged to my best friend, mine was hers, a silent devotion that I buried beneath duty and the horrors of war. When tragedy sends me home, scarred and broken, I don’t expect to find healing in the life I left behind. But as grief turns into something deeper, I must decide if I have the courage to face a future shaped by love, hope, and loss.
The third installment in the Midnight Stars Saga follows Mireille Perrin, the baby Estelle entrusted to her twin sister Mauve in When Stars Fall at Midnight. Now grown and navigating the heartache of war, Mireille’s journey will unearth family truths, test her resilience, and challenge her heart in ways she never expected.
In this American Historical romance, Tess Thompson delivers a heartwarming, sweeping family saga filled with long- buried family secrets, unspoken desires, and characters torn between love and duty. A clean wartime that explores the power of second chances and healing nature of love is perfect for fans of 1940s historical fiction and WWII love stories. This sweet, inspirational tale will tug at heartstrings while reminding readers of the enduring resilience of the human spirit.
302 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 23, 2025
148 people are currently reading
53 people want to read
About the author
Tess Thompson
119 books1,734 followersTess Thompson Romance...hometowns and heartstrings.
Tess Thompson is the USA Today Bestselling and award-winning author of contemporary and historical Romantic Women’s Fiction with over 60 published titles. When asked to describe her books, she could never figure out what to say that would perfectly sum them up until she landed on, Hometowns and Heartstrings.
She’s married to her prince, Best Husband Ever, and is the mother of their blended family of four kids and five cats. Best Husband Ever is seventeen months younger, which qualifies Tess as a Cougar, a title she wears proudly. Her Bonus Sons are young adults with pretty hair and big brains like their dad. Daughters, better known as Princess One and Two, are teenagers who make their mama proud because they’re kind. They’re also smart, but a mother shouldn’t brag.
Tess loves lazy afternoons watching football, hanging out on the back patio with Best Husband Ever, reading in bed, binge-watching television series, red wine, strong coffee and walks on crisp autumn days. She laughs a little too loudly, never knows what to make for dinner, looks ridiculous kickboxing in an attempt to combat her muffin top, and always complains about the
rain even though she chose to live in Seattle.
She’s proud to have grown up in a small town like the ones in her novels. After graduating from the University of Southern California Drama School, she had hopes of becoming an actress but was called instead to writing fiction. She’s grateful to spend most days in her office matchmaking her characters while her favorite cat Mittens (shhh…don’t tell the others) sleeps on the desk.
She adores hearing from readers, so don’t hesitate to say hello or sign up for her newsletter:
http://tesswrites.com/. You’ll receive an ebook copy of her novella, The Santa Trial, for your
efforts.
Much to her father’s horror, you can find her everywhere on social media.
BookBub: http://bit.ly/2esOcrn
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorTessTh...
Goodreads: http://bit.ly/2vClTfX
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/tesswrites
Twitter: https://twitter.com/tesswrites
Instagram: https://instagram.com/tessielouwrites
Please note: Tess is not affiliated with the writing duo of Charlene Tess and Judi Thompson.
Tess Thompson is the USA Today Bestselling and award-winning author of contemporary and historical Romantic Women’s Fiction with over 60 published titles. When asked to describe her books, she could never figure out what to say that would perfectly sum them up until she landed on, Hometowns and Heartstrings.
She’s married to her prince, Best Husband Ever, and is the mother of their blended family of four kids and five cats. Best Husband Ever is seventeen months younger, which qualifies Tess as a Cougar, a title she wears proudly. Her Bonus Sons are young adults with pretty hair and big brains like their dad. Daughters, better known as Princess One and Two, are teenagers who make their mama proud because they’re kind. They’re also smart, but a mother shouldn’t brag.
Tess loves lazy afternoons watching football, hanging out on the back patio with Best Husband Ever, reading in bed, binge-watching television series, red wine, strong coffee and walks on crisp autumn days. She laughs a little too loudly, never knows what to make for dinner, looks ridiculous kickboxing in an attempt to combat her muffin top, and always complains about the
rain even though she chose to live in Seattle.
She’s proud to have grown up in a small town like the ones in her novels. After graduating from the University of Southern California Drama School, she had hopes of becoming an actress but was called instead to writing fiction. She’s grateful to spend most days in her office matchmaking her characters while her favorite cat Mittens (shhh…don’t tell the others) sleeps on the desk.
She adores hearing from readers, so don’t hesitate to say hello or sign up for her newsletter:
http://tesswrites.com/. You’ll receive an ebook copy of her novella, The Santa Trial, for your
efforts.
Much to her father’s horror, you can find her everywhere on social media.
BookBub: http://bit.ly/2esOcrn
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorTessTh...
Goodreads: http://bit.ly/2vClTfX
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/tesswrites
Twitter: https://twitter.com/tesswrites
Instagram: https://instagram.com/tessielouwrites
Please note: Tess is not affiliated with the writing duo of Charlene Tess and Judi Thompson.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews
January 26, 2025
I was lucky to read an advanced reader copy of this book. I will definitely be purchasing this book to read over and over again. This series is written so beautifully by Tess Thompson. She shows was s there is always light and love through hardships and trails.
Book three of the midnight stars saga tells us the story of Mireille. If you started this series in the begging, Mireille is the baby that was given away by her Mother at a time when she felt she had no choice. Mireille grew u in a very loving home raised by her biological mothers twin sister and her husband. At the age of 16 when the war in Germany stated, she was sent to a boarding school in America to keep her safe. Luckily Mireille became fast friends with her roommate Betsy and was welcomed into Betsy’s family.
As always Tess writes in a way that we immediately feel connected to the characters in the story. Due to he war and all of the dark and heart wrenching sadness, you will need a few tissues to wipe away tears. Poor Mireille he’s through some unimaginable moments as do some of the other characters in this story. Thankfully Mireille gets a happy ending when she meets her birth mother and more family. Her worlds come together and allow her to move forward with hope for the future.
I look forward to the next book and hope Betsy gets her happy ending as well. This last sentence of the book means so much and I truly wish everyone who reads this story feels this as strongly as I do. The world absolutely needs us to always remember this. “ It was our only job, really. Loving one another so fiercely that evil could not make us bitter or despairing. For with love comes light”
Book three of the midnight stars saga tells us the story of Mireille. If you started this series in the begging, Mireille is the baby that was given away by her Mother at a time when she felt she had no choice. Mireille grew u in a very loving home raised by her biological mothers twin sister and her husband. At the age of 16 when the war in Germany stated, she was sent to a boarding school in America to keep her safe. Luckily Mireille became fast friends with her roommate Betsy and was welcomed into Betsy’s family.
As always Tess writes in a way that we immediately feel connected to the characters in the story. Due to he war and all of the dark and heart wrenching sadness, you will need a few tissues to wipe away tears. Poor Mireille he’s through some unimaginable moments as do some of the other characters in this story. Thankfully Mireille gets a happy ending when she meets her birth mother and more family. Her worlds come together and allow her to move forward with hope for the future.
I look forward to the next book and hope Betsy gets her happy ending as well. This last sentence of the book means so much and I truly wish everyone who reads this story feels this as strongly as I do. The world absolutely needs us to always remember this. “ It was our only job, really. Loving one another so fiercely that evil could not make us bitter or despairing. For with love comes light”
February 2, 2025
Book Details
When stars dream at midnight. Tess Thompson What an amazing story. This series is simply amazing. Wow, this is so good.There are happy tears sad tears. Love and loss and so much oh, so much more. I didn't want this book to end, but i'm so happy.It ended like it did. Mireille, So young to be sent across the world to a new family, because the war has broken out, soon to learn so many secrets from the family in the past, but only good things to come. Family friendship, love, and so so much more. What a beautiful story. Simply love this story.This series is amazing. Thank you Tess .
When stars dream at midnight. Tess Thompson What an amazing story. This series is simply amazing. Wow, this is so good.There are happy tears sad tears. Love and loss and so much oh, so much more. I didn't want this book to end, but i'm so happy.It ended like it did. Mireille, So young to be sent across the world to a new family, because the war has broken out, soon to learn so many secrets from the family in the past, but only good things to come. Family friendship, love, and so so much more. What a beautiful story. Simply love this story.This series is amazing. Thank you Tess .
February 12, 2025
Every time I feel like I have read Tess Thompson's best historical book, she brings me another one like this. I have a new favorite. And as I am always saying with her books, I'm surprised because I am typically NOT a fan of historical romances.
Granted, this one takes place during WWII, which is one of my favorite time periods in history to study. I cannot imagine living during that time, watching families get ripped apart and humanity disappearing into evil. I am intrigued by the strength of those who resisted and persisted. This saga builds upon the first two installments, which were the story of Mireille's birth mother, yet somehow grips me even tighter. It also begs to be turned into a miniseries on a streaming platform.
Mireille was raised by her bio mom's twin sister in the south of France. [You'll want to read the first two books to better understand Stella's story, but it isn't necessary to appreciate this book.] And now she is returning to America, to stay safe as Hitler starts to take over France. Her father is Jewish, thus making her family a particular target.
This poor girl is completely uprooted from the vineyard that she has known and loved her whole life and transplanted onto a foreign land. She is fortunate to land a benevolent roommate at school who adopts her into the family, thus setting Mireille on her crash course of love and resistance during one of the most trying times in our history.
She will love and lose and love some more. Her path doesn't go on a straight line, instead meandering a bit to find its way to the ending you are waiting for. I felt like I was standing by her side as she went through every experience. I faced her fears, embraced her challenges, and loved all of her loves. I rejoiced in her happiness and cried alongside her in her grief.
Dare I hope for more in this world?
Well done, yet again, Ms. Thompson!
Granted, this one takes place during WWII, which is one of my favorite time periods in history to study. I cannot imagine living during that time, watching families get ripped apart and humanity disappearing into evil. I am intrigued by the strength of those who resisted and persisted. This saga builds upon the first two installments, which were the story of Mireille's birth mother, yet somehow grips me even tighter. It also begs to be turned into a miniseries on a streaming platform.
Mireille was raised by her bio mom's twin sister in the south of France. [You'll want to read the first two books to better understand Stella's story, but it isn't necessary to appreciate this book.] And now she is returning to America, to stay safe as Hitler starts to take over France. Her father is Jewish, thus making her family a particular target.
This poor girl is completely uprooted from the vineyard that she has known and loved her whole life and transplanted onto a foreign land. She is fortunate to land a benevolent roommate at school who adopts her into the family, thus setting Mireille on her crash course of love and resistance during one of the most trying times in our history.
She will love and lose and love some more. Her path doesn't go on a straight line, instead meandering a bit to find its way to the ending you are waiting for. I felt like I was standing by her side as she went through every experience. I faced her fears, embraced her challenges, and loved all of her loves. I rejoiced in her happiness and cried alongside her in her grief.
Dare I hope for more in this world?
Well done, yet again, Ms. Thompson!
January 29, 2025
In When Stars Dream at Midnight author Tess Thompson continues the Midnight Stars Saga, moving the timeline forward and telling the story of Mireille Perrin. The story begins in France in 1938 as Mireille, age 16, is being sent to a girls’ boarding school in America. Hitler’s reign of terror and destruction is increasing in Europe and it looks like France will be next. Mireille is heartbroken to leave her parents Pierre and Mauve, their vineyard and wonderful, love-filled life but her parents are adamant. It’s a difficult transition, but the school is good, most of the girls and staff are welcoming and Mireille immediately meets Betsy, who will become a lifelong friend.
Author Thompson expertly takes us through the next several years of Mireille’s life: the horrors of the war, her uncertainty about the fate of her parents and her fear that she will never see them again and most of all her acceptance as an extended member of Betsy’s family and matters of the heart that fill her with joy and sadness.
As always, Thompson weaves together new characters from this book and those we have already met with great joy, tragedy and everyday events that demonstrate the power of love and the importance of family. Old faces pop up, family mysteries are solved, surprising things happen, hearts are broken and then they are mended. A Tess Thompson book is always a roller-coaster ride of emotion, showing life as it really is and immersing the reader into the story. You feel everything, but at the end of the book you always feel happiness and peace.
I was given an advance copy of When Stars Dream at Midnight by the author. It is a wonderful continuation of an excellent story, and I recommend it without hesitation. I voluntarily leave this review; all opinions are my own.
Author Thompson expertly takes us through the next several years of Mireille’s life: the horrors of the war, her uncertainty about the fate of her parents and her fear that she will never see them again and most of all her acceptance as an extended member of Betsy’s family and matters of the heart that fill her with joy and sadness.
As always, Thompson weaves together new characters from this book and those we have already met with great joy, tragedy and everyday events that demonstrate the power of love and the importance of family. Old faces pop up, family mysteries are solved, surprising things happen, hearts are broken and then they are mended. A Tess Thompson book is always a roller-coaster ride of emotion, showing life as it really is and immersing the reader into the story. You feel everything, but at the end of the book you always feel happiness and peace.
I was given an advance copy of When Stars Dream at Midnight by the author. It is a wonderful continuation of an excellent story, and I recommend it without hesitation. I voluntarily leave this review; all opinions are my own.
January 27, 2025
When Stars Dream At Midnight
By: Tess Thompson
5 Stars
In the first couple of books of this series, we vagly hear of Mireille, Constantine, and Stella's daughter,who was given to her twin to raise. Well, this is her story, and what a story it was. A young girl of only 16, Mireille, is sent to America to save her from the war. While leaving her parents is hard, she makes a life for herself in America. School, friends, marriage, loss. This is her story.
Wow. I don't think Tess has a bad book in her. I'm pretty sure every time I read a new book, I say this, but this was the best one yet. The story of Mireille, Betsy, Peter, George, and so many others was filled with hope, love, loss, tragedy, renewal, and hope. Mireille, at such a young age, faces so much. It is hard not to love this story. It is hard not to feel this story. It was emotional yet magic. It was tragic yet beautiful. By the end, I was in love and aww of the scenery and the story and the characters. It will captivate you while also breaking your heart, but by the end, you will be in complete shock and probably bawling like a baby. I know I was. This story was so many things, but in one word, it was amazing. I can't wait to read more. If I do say so myself, Betsy needs her story.
Stormi Ellis
Boundless Book Reviews
By: Tess Thompson
5 Stars
In the first couple of books of this series, we vagly hear of Mireille, Constantine, and Stella's daughter,who was given to her twin to raise. Well, this is her story, and what a story it was. A young girl of only 16, Mireille, is sent to America to save her from the war. While leaving her parents is hard, she makes a life for herself in America. School, friends, marriage, loss. This is her story.
Wow. I don't think Tess has a bad book in her. I'm pretty sure every time I read a new book, I say this, but this was the best one yet. The story of Mireille, Betsy, Peter, George, and so many others was filled with hope, love, loss, tragedy, renewal, and hope. Mireille, at such a young age, faces so much. It is hard not to love this story. It is hard not to feel this story. It was emotional yet magic. It was tragic yet beautiful. By the end, I was in love and aww of the scenery and the story and the characters. It will captivate you while also breaking your heart, but by the end, you will be in complete shock and probably bawling like a baby. I know I was. This story was so many things, but in one word, it was amazing. I can't wait to read more. If I do say so myself, Betsy needs her story.
Stormi Ellis
Boundless Book Reviews
January 26, 2025
When Stars Dream at Midnight is a wonderful read. I loved this one so much. This is a clean historical romance filled with a lot of heart and healing. This is Mireille's book. She is growing and the world is headed into World War 2. Once living in France with her parents she is sent for her safety to the states. I love her courage and her heart. She embraces her new friends as they take her in as family. Betsy is a delight and you feel the pull Mireille has with Peter and George. You get why Mireille follows her heart and chooses who she chooses. Your heart goes out to everyone especially Peter and George as the war rages on. Both men are doing their own part in different locations. Betsy and Mireille do their own part state side. This will stir up plenty of emotions as Mireille faces several losses and some truths about her life come out. Mireille is so strong and brave as she takes the steps to get to know her family she never knew about. I love how everything comes together. With the heartache there is so much beauty and love sprinkled through out. If you haven't read the first 2 books in the Midnight Stars Saga you need to. I love this series so much. Tess Thompson has this beautiful way with her words. Go one click this now.
January 29, 2025
This book hooked me right from the start with young Murielle being sent to America by her parents to escape the horrors of WWII in France. Her boarding school roommate Betsy becomes her best friend and Betsy’s family envelops her with their love and support. Going home with Betsy for Thanksgiving, Murielle meets Betsy’s brother Peter and his best friend George, who has also become a part of this wonderful family after losing his parents at a young age. Betsy & George are both life of the party big personalities, while Murielle & Peter are quiet introspective thinkers. But it’s George who wins Murielle’s heart while Peter stands by to watch his friend marry the woman he loves. When both men enlist in the Navy & ship off to Europe, we can only hope they come home safely. But that is not meant to be. George is killed and Peter comes home with serious injuries after surviving a bombing where his English bride is killed. Can Peter and Murielle put the pieces of their hearts back together to find some happiness? The characters and descriptions in this story are just so vivid, I loved every minute of it even through my tears.
February 7, 2025
What a wonderful book. This is the third in the series where we now meet Mireille the daughter who was brought up in France by Mauve, Estelle's sister and her husband. She had a loving family and idyllic childhood and being the only child was adored by her parents.
Sadly when Mirielle was 18 years old and the Nazis invaded France, her parents decided to send her to America far away from the war. Although Estelle lived there, Mauve and Pierre decided to send her to school where she met Betsy Westbrook who became her best friend and Ally. She was welcomed by Betsy's family who treated her like a daughter.
Peter and George were also in the family and Mirielle fell madly in love with George and formed a lasting friendship with Peter. The boys volunteered to join the war effort and the family were bereft at their leaving.
My heart broke for Mirielle when she lost her husband and parents. I was reading as tears filled my eyes.
This is a wonderful book, brilliantly written in Tess's usual way and I never wanted it to end. I'm not sure if there's a No 4 but I look forward to Tess's next book. Thankyou.
Sadly when Mirielle was 18 years old and the Nazis invaded France, her parents decided to send her to America far away from the war. Although Estelle lived there, Mauve and Pierre decided to send her to school where she met Betsy Westbrook who became her best friend and Ally. She was welcomed by Betsy's family who treated her like a daughter.
Peter and George were also in the family and Mirielle fell madly in love with George and formed a lasting friendship with Peter. The boys volunteered to join the war effort and the family were bereft at their leaving.
My heart broke for Mirielle when she lost her husband and parents. I was reading as tears filled my eyes.
This is a wonderful book, brilliantly written in Tess's usual way and I never wanted it to end. I'm not sure if there's a No 4 but I look forward to Tess's next book. Thankyou.
January 31, 2025
I didn’t know I needed this book until I read it. I was hoping we would get an update on the sister’s life, as well as the daughter from the previous books, but this was better than expected. Mireille had been living with her mom and dad but gets sent home to the states when Hitler starts his reign of terror. She meets a schoolmate and becomes entwined with her family. My only issue is the fact that I didn’t agree with what happened between her, Peter and his best friend. While it did add an extra layer of heartbreak for everyone involved, I wondered if Peter was given the short end of the stick one too many times.
When both Peter and his friend get called to help in the war, no one knows what will happen. I appreciated the growth of Mireille and my heart was broken more than once in this book. Whether both men come back, how everyone moves on, and the big secret that Mireille discovers all have huge ramifications.
I really enjoyed this book, and I hope her best friend gets a HEA all her own. I received an ARC and this is my honest, voluntary review.
When both Peter and his friend get called to help in the war, no one knows what will happen. I appreciated the growth of Mireille and my heart was broken more than once in this book. Whether both men come back, how everyone moves on, and the big secret that Mireille discovers all have huge ramifications.
I really enjoyed this book, and I hope her best friend gets a HEA all her own. I received an ARC and this is my honest, voluntary review.
January 24, 2025
Oh my! The anticipation of holding the third book in the series and finally learning more about Mirelle after all the years that have passed. The agony of knowing about the devastation that is coming to France in the Second World War, and wondering how her family will fare. The joy of reading about their love stories and then reading about the sorrowful losses the family faces during the war years. Finally, a full blending of all the families that have loved and been loved by Mirelle. This is a wonderful, heart-stirring book that shows the triumph of the human spirit, and that there's always room for more love.
I recommend this book. If you have the chance, buy it. It is a standalone, but you will really be invested in the story if you read the first two books in the series before reading this one. I received an ARC of this book and I am writing this review because it is a wonderful book.
I recommend this book. If you have the chance, buy it. It is a standalone, but you will really be invested in the story if you read the first two books in the series before reading this one. I received an ARC of this book and I am writing this review because it is a wonderful book.
January 29, 2025
What an amazing book to read it's the third in the Midnight Stars Saga. This book, the characters and the story told is very captivating. The story is set partly in France and then mainly in America, it is about Mireille Perrin who's been living on a wine farm with her family. When the war is a threat Mireille is sent off to America to be safe. In America Mireille meets new people a friend of her mother who takes her in. The life changes being in the Garner Academy, Mireille's new friend Betsy. The story telling has it's twist and turns, Mireille is part of many happenings and along the road she meets friends that will be important to her. Peter, George and many more. It is also time for new beginnings and the definition of family is maybe not what could be expected.
The book also gives more details and the better picture as it continues as it is the third book in the series. It gives answers you may have had after reading the first two books in the series.
I can definitely recommend this read, sitting in a comfy couch or sofa with that nice warm drink of your choice.
I'm grateful to have read this book!
Charlotte N
The book also gives more details and the better picture as it continues as it is the third book in the series. It gives answers you may have had after reading the first two books in the series.
I can definitely recommend this read, sitting in a comfy couch or sofa with that nice warm drink of your choice.
I'm grateful to have read this book!
Charlotte N
February 1, 2025
A heart wrenching story of life, love and second chances during WWII. The parents of Mireilla who lived in France had to made the heartbreaking decision to send their beloved 16 year old daughter to America for her safety before the war broke out. She is sent to a boarding school and meets Betsy who becomes the sister of her heart. And every chance they got they would stay with Betsy family who welcome Mireilla as a second daughter. Along with Peter, Betsy brother and his friend George who was also adopted into the family, the four became fast friends. But Mireilla and George fell in love and once she was of age they married. Unfortunately two days later both George and Peter shipped out, the Americans have joined the battle.
I was moved by their story and the heart ships that families lived through. Definitely a page turner and even though it’s book #3 in the series, it can be read as a standalone. Once again Tess has written a winner. #WhenStarsDreamatMidnight
I was moved by their story and the heart ships that families lived through. Definitely a page turner and even though it’s book #3 in the series, it can be read as a standalone. Once again Tess has written a winner. #WhenStarsDreamatMidnight
February 3, 2025
What a lovely book. This is the third in this series and I would recommend that you do read at least the first one to give yourself a better understanding to Mireille's background story and the events surrounding her birth and how she ended up in France.
I loved how the characters developed and how Mireille adjusted to her new life in America. I often wonder how many marriages were performed prior to the men shipping off to war and how many of the husbands actually returned. It is quite something reading about real-life events even though details are fictionalised as you kind of have an idea of what will likely happen.
As in all Ms Thompson's books, she leaves you with a satisying end and resolution for at least a couple of the characters. I am pleased to hear that there will be more in this series.
I loved how the characters developed and how Mireille adjusted to her new life in America. I often wonder how many marriages were performed prior to the men shipping off to war and how many of the husbands actually returned. It is quite something reading about real-life events even though details are fictionalised as you kind of have an idea of what will likely happen.
As in all Ms Thompson's books, she leaves you with a satisying end and resolution for at least a couple of the characters. I am pleased to hear that there will be more in this series.
January 23, 2025
“ Love is the only way through the darkness”
Mireille is being sent to the states by her parents, France is no longer safe from Hitler.
We join her as she meets her best friend Betsy and the whole Westbrook family, including Betsy’s, brother Peter and their friend George, who has been raised by the Westbrooks since his parents passed , These people become extremely important to Mireille.
Peter and George are called to war and nothing will ever be the same.
While this is the third book in the series, it is Mireille who we meet before she is even born in book one.
Family secrets are revealed and nothing will ever be the same.
I cannot stress enough that you definitely need tissues for this one.
I absolutely adored this book
Mireille is being sent to the states by her parents, France is no longer safe from Hitler.
We join her as she meets her best friend Betsy and the whole Westbrook family, including Betsy’s, brother Peter and their friend George, who has been raised by the Westbrooks since his parents passed , These people become extremely important to Mireille.
Peter and George are called to war and nothing will ever be the same.
While this is the third book in the series, it is Mireille who we meet before she is even born in book one.
Family secrets are revealed and nothing will ever be the same.
I cannot stress enough that you definitely need tissues for this one.
I absolutely adored this book
January 24, 2025
Third book in The Midnight Stars Saga by Tess Thompson.
This book begins in 1938 France. Mireille is sixteen and being sent to America because her grandmother was Jewish, even though she converted to Catholicism.
Betsy is her new roommate and soon to be best friend at the new school.
Betsy invites her home for Thanksgiving where she meets Peter, Betsy’s brother and George their orphaned friend who lives with them.
Mireille knows there’s something she doesn’t know about her birth, but is content with the unconditional love of her parents.
A chance meeting while Christmas shopping opens an opportunity for future magic.
*I received this as an ARC reader and am leaving my unbiased review.
This book begins in 1938 France. Mireille is sixteen and being sent to America because her grandmother was Jewish, even though she converted to Catholicism.
Betsy is her new roommate and soon to be best friend at the new school.
Betsy invites her home for Thanksgiving where she meets Peter, Betsy’s brother and George their orphaned friend who lives with them.
Mireille knows there’s something she doesn’t know about her birth, but is content with the unconditional love of her parents.
A chance meeting while Christmas shopping opens an opportunity for future magic.
*I received this as an ARC reader and am leaving my unbiased review.
January 26, 2025
Mireille was sent from France to the US by her parents (her mother was American) in 1938 because they knew war was coming and wanted to keep her safe. She was lucky when she arrived at the boarding school and promptly made friends with Betsy Westbrook. The bond between Mireille, Betsy and her family was strong as you read about the next seven years of their lives through the good times, the bad and secrets in Mireille’s family that are finally revealed.
This is the third book in the series but you actually can read it as a stand alone. The only things you need are time to read from beginning to end and some tissues. The way Tess is able to capture your attention with her words is amazing. Can’t wait to see what her next book will be like.
This is the third book in the series but you actually can read it as a stand alone. The only things you need are time to read from beginning to end and some tissues. The way Tess is able to capture your attention with her words is amazing. Can’t wait to see what her next book will be like.
January 28, 2025
This is one of the best series by Tess Thompson. I would suggest that you read them in order:
When Stars Fall at Midnight
When Stars Rise at Midnight
When Stars Dream at Midnight
This 3rd saga is about Mireille, a 16 year old who is sent to America by herself to get away from the war raging in Europe. She arrives at a boarding school and is assigned to share a room with Betsy Westbrook. They become fast friends. Mireille goes home on Thanksgiving with Betsy and meets her family who immediately take her under their wings. She meets Peter, the brother and George whose parents have died and who now lives with the Westbrooks. It is a beautiful, touching, historical story that follows the lives of this group, but ultimately is connected to both of the first two sagas. You will laugh, cry, hold your breath….run through so many different emotions all blended with actual history and you won’t want to put the book down. Just an excellent storyline.
When Stars Fall at Midnight
When Stars Rise at Midnight
When Stars Dream at Midnight
This 3rd saga is about Mireille, a 16 year old who is sent to America by herself to get away from the war raging in Europe. She arrives at a boarding school and is assigned to share a room with Betsy Westbrook. They become fast friends. Mireille goes home on Thanksgiving with Betsy and meets her family who immediately take her under their wings. She meets Peter, the brother and George whose parents have died and who now lives with the Westbrooks. It is a beautiful, touching, historical story that follows the lives of this group, but ultimately is connected to both of the first two sagas. You will laugh, cry, hold your breath….run through so many different emotions all blended with actual history and you won’t want to put the book down. Just an excellent storyline.
January 29, 2025
Wartime romance and second chances
This was a bit tough to read as it always happens when such a devastating situation as a war occurs and its destruction impacts people’s lives turning them upside down and causing chaos.
Losses, tragedy, grief, guilt and unrequited love are not anything that is ever really understood how it affects people and how they cope with it.
I loved the general story line and the great characters and their wonderful relationships and all that but the part of WWII was where I was really struggling with as it only seemed from a very narrow perspective of American knowledge and seemed a bit unrealistic from what it really was.
That’s just my opinion though the whole story was great.
This was a bit tough to read as it always happens when such a devastating situation as a war occurs and its destruction impacts people’s lives turning them upside down and causing chaos.
Losses, tragedy, grief, guilt and unrequited love are not anything that is ever really understood how it affects people and how they cope with it.
I loved the general story line and the great characters and their wonderful relationships and all that but the part of WWII was where I was really struggling with as it only seemed from a very narrow perspective of American knowledge and seemed a bit unrealistic from what it really was.
That’s just my opinion though the whole story was great.
February 4, 2025
When Stars Dream At Midnight is a book that grabs you and does not let go. It takes place in the 1930's right around WW2, which is a huge bonus!
Mireille is an only child of modest means who lands in America from France, not by her choice. She is forced to made do. As she thinks that her life is going well, the truth about her past comes full force into her face and throws her for a loop.
Peter is a college man of privileged means but has always felt that he was a shadow to his best friend. Even to his own parents who he feels prefer George over him. He goes off to the war where his life changes for the good and the bad only to find himself reeling from what life throws at him.
Can these 2 find healing in the aftermath of these events?
Mireille is an only child of modest means who lands in America from France, not by her choice. She is forced to made do. As she thinks that her life is going well, the truth about her past comes full force into her face and throws her for a loop.
Peter is a college man of privileged means but has always felt that he was a shadow to his best friend. Even to his own parents who he feels prefer George over him. He goes off to the war where his life changes for the good and the bad only to find himself reeling from what life throws at him.
Can these 2 find healing in the aftermath of these events?
January 24, 2025
I could not put this one down. Mireille was sent to America to a boarding school to escape the war in Germany. While in the boarding school she befriends a girls named Betsy and they become best friends. Over the years she falls in love with Betsy’s brothers friend George and Betsy’s family takes Mireille in as family. Betsy’s brother Peter also befriends Mireille but resists to act on his feelings for her since Mireille ends up falling for George instead of Peter.
After years of the war and Mireille and Peter going different ways their lives change and end up finding comfort in each other after bother suffering loses. The ending to this one was perfect.
Sarah
After years of the war and Mireille and Peter going different ways their lives change and end up finding comfort in each other after bother suffering loses. The ending to this one was perfect.
Sarah
January 30, 2025
This third book was my favorite. The author did an excellent job of moving the story forward, without too much unnecessary detail. Instead of rehashing a story line or even expanding on we already knew, the story focused on the third generation. The strength and bond of family or a family chosen vs not born into, is very strong. The character were memorable and their stories compelling. Love, loss, rebuilding and trusting yourself to do the right thing, all come into play. Without a spoiler, the ending is very satisfying. Some parts were obvious, but the last few pages tie things together very well.
January 31, 2025
I didn't really expect this standalone, HEA story to be such an emotional read, so consider this your warning!
This romantic epic travels from Italy to America and 1930's to 1940's. From the very beginning this story had a hold of me, with characters that you just don't see anymore, and is well written with attention paid to the details to make this story feel authentic to it's time in history.
I don't know if I can really say that I enjoyed this story - it was a fantastic read but there was so much sadness and while I'm glad that Mireille and Peter got their HEA, there was definitely a lot else happening in this story.
This romantic epic travels from Italy to America and 1930's to 1940's. From the very beginning this story had a hold of me, with characters that you just don't see anymore, and is well written with attention paid to the details to make this story feel authentic to it's time in history.
I don't know if I can really say that I enjoyed this story - it was a fantastic read but there was so much sadness and while I'm glad that Mireille and Peter got their HEA, there was definitely a lot else happening in this story.
February 4, 2025
Such a beautiful story of love found, lost and then rebuilding. A story of Mirielle sent to the United States to escape the horrors of the war. Mirielle instantly connects to Betsy, her roommate. Betsy’s family embraces Mirielle and treats her as a daughter. As time passes Mirielle falls in love and marry. Both Betsy and Mirielle find jobs to support the war efforts.
Much loss and devastation results from the war. Can broken hearts be mended? A secret from Mirielle’s past threatens everything she loves and holds dear. This book covers a long span of time with history included.
Thank you to the author for this ARC. This review is my honest opinion
Much loss and devastation results from the war. Can broken hearts be mended? A secret from Mirielle’s past threatens everything she loves and holds dear. This book covers a long span of time with history included.
Thank you to the author for this ARC. This review is my honest opinion
April 15, 2025
Tess Thompson brings her characters to life in such realistic and unforgettable ways. This is book three of the series, but you don't need to read the others first. Mirielle was born in the US, but raised in France until her parents send her back to the US to avoid the brewing war. Sheltered by her private school and the wealth of friends she meets there, Mirielle grows up knowing nothing of her American roots. But WWII tears her world apart. In this clean romance, she finds a second chance for love and family in a sensitively told story that will pull your heartstrings.
Thanks to the author for the advance copy. I really enjoyed it.
Thanks to the author for the advance copy. I really enjoyed it.
January 23, 2025
This story is set just as World War II was starting in Europe. Mireille was a girl just 16 years old, sent to a boarding school in the US for her safety. The story takes place over the next 7 years, following Mireille, her family and friends through the trials and tribulations of life during the war. The reader gets to experience the joys and heartbreak of her life and those around her. Tess has created a wonderful story in a not so wonderful time and it was a pleasure to read. I highly recommend!
January 25, 2025
This book is about Estelle daughter who she had when young and single,and gave her away to her twin sister and husband who then went to live in France ,when war started they sent her to America to be safe ,at school she met a new friend and her brother Peter who loved her for years and his friend George who she later married ,George died during the was and also peters English wife ,she later found out about her real parents and met Estelle and sisters who all knew about her ,she later married Peter and had a lovely family another great book in this series
January 25, 2025
Grab some tissue, you'll need it. This is a novel that touches your soul. When we aren't paying attention evil can happen out of nowhere as demonstrated as this story unfolds. We see what hate can do when it goes unchecked and the lives it alters forever. This story takes us on a journey of broken pieces being put back together. It reminds us there is room in the human heart for many loves and that love can change darkness into light. This is a story I will read again and again. I highly recommend this book.
February 10, 2025
I was disappointed. I thought the book to be clichéd, predictable and mawkish. I found it too easy to predict from early on in the book how it would turn out, including those who would die. The characters were portrayed in a way that was relatively simplistic and trite. Because the story jumped from one major event to another over a period of years, the lives of these people emphasized the highly emotional points of these periods, making the story mawkish–we saw only very brief portrayals of what these people lives were when they were not suffering highs or lows.
February 11, 2025
Going through the trials and joys of the characters kept me wanting more. I loved how Mireille was able to share her grief with those around her and her realization that it lifted a burden for all of them. We often feel as though sharing grief will drown us in it but it will instead be a shared burden and a lightening of the spirit. Found family is almost more amazing than biological relations. Mireille's found family was instrumental in her survival and brought her love she could never have imagined.
February 15, 2025
This is a fascinating and emotional book. War is never a pleasant subject, but Ms. Thompson gives you a realistic peek into a few lives and how they were affected. The uncertainty and the fear when loved ones left to serve. Mireille and Peter’s story took a bit of time to get to a happy ending, but what a journey it was! A fantastic book that I highly recommend!
I received an advance copy of this book from the author, however, I voluntarily wrote an honest review. All opinions are strictly my own.
I received an advance copy of this book from the author, however, I voluntarily wrote an honest review. All opinions are strictly my own.
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