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The Rev. Clare Fergusson & Russ Van Alstyne Mysteries #10
At Midnight Comes the Cry
Lenght: 12h 20min
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.
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.
12 pages, Audible Audio
First published November 18, 2025
About the author
Julia Spencer-Fleming
18 books1,940 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
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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.
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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.
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My 4.05 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon.
August 26, 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 11, 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 26, 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.
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
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.
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 10, 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
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.
June 29, 2026
Too much buildup in the story for nothing to happen
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.
May 25, 2026
This is the most American read I have ever read. The slang, the characters, topics - literally everything. The plot didn’t flow easily. Main idea was about a group of people trying to catch a white supremacist militia group that are planning something sinister. It wasn’t unique and a lot of times it was cringe. Sometimes it wasn’t clear what or where the chapter is happening.
May 16, 2026
I’ve been enjoying this series since it started in 2003, and was happy to have another opportunity to spend time with the Reverend Claire and the other characters in this intelligent series.
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.
December 27, 2025
What a delight to read a Clare Fergusson/Russ van Alstyne mystery again. It is the 10th in a series and I’ve heard murmurs that this is the final book in the series. I really enjoyed this novel. The characters were well drawn and spirited, and the main topic was about white supremacy groups. The ending was happy and because of that, I am happy.
March 23, 2026
At Midnight Comes the Cry is one of those books that reminds you why long-running mystery series can be so rewarding when they’re done well. Julia Spencer-Fleming brings Clare Fergusson and Russ Van Alstyne back for a Christmas-set mystery in Millers Kill, with the story revolving around a holiday season disrupted by white supremacist activity and a larger violent plot. It’s the tenth book in the Clare Fergusson/Russ Van Alstyne series, published in November 2025.
What I liked most here is that this isn’t just a crime novel trying to be “topical” for effect. It actually feels grounded, tense, and emotionally serious. The festive setting gives the book that slightly eerie contrast I always enjoy in winter mysteries: Christmas lights, family moments, community traditions… and, underneath all that, fear, anger, and very real danger. That combination works incredibly well.
And as usual with this series, the real strength is the characters. Clare and Russ already come with a lot of history, and this book benefits from that. Their relationship, their sense of duty, and the emotional weight they carry give the story much more depth than a straightforward procedural. It’s the kind of mystery where you keep turning the pages not just to find out what happens, but because you care about the people caught up in it.
That said, I do think this is very much a series book. You can probably follow the plot without having read the earlier novels, but I suspect it lands harder if you already know these characters and everything they’ve been through. This doesn’t feel like the place to start.
Overall, I’d say this is a strong, thoughtful, and darker-than-it-looks mystery, with enough suspense to keep things moving and enough heart to make it stick. Not remotely a cozy Christmas read, despite the setting, but definitely a satisfying one.
What I liked most here is that this isn’t just a crime novel trying to be “topical” for effect. It actually feels grounded, tense, and emotionally serious. The festive setting gives the book that slightly eerie contrast I always enjoy in winter mysteries: Christmas lights, family moments, community traditions… and, underneath all that, fear, anger, and very real danger. That combination works incredibly well.
And as usual with this series, the real strength is the characters. Clare and Russ already come with a lot of history, and this book benefits from that. Their relationship, their sense of duty, and the emotional weight they carry give the story much more depth than a straightforward procedural. It’s the kind of mystery where you keep turning the pages not just to find out what happens, but because you care about the people caught up in it.
That said, I do think this is very much a series book. You can probably follow the plot without having read the earlier novels, but I suspect it lands harder if you already know these characters and everything they’ve been through. This doesn’t feel like the place to start.
Overall, I’d say this is a strong, thoughtful, and darker-than-it-looks mystery, with enough suspense to keep things moving and enough heart to make it stick. Not remotely a cozy Christmas read, despite the setting, but definitely a satisfying one.
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!! 📚⭐️
April 17, 2026
This is a good mystery and the writer is really good, and I understood what was going on, but I would have definitely enjoyed it even more if I was already familiar with the characters. The main people were just so interesting and likeable. The place and weather were well drawn and I felt like I was stepping into the scene.
The narration was really good. I hope I read more in this series. Thanks to NetGalley for letting me read this
This is a review of the audiobook.
The narration was really good. I hope I read more in this series. Thanks to NetGalley for letting me read this
This is a review of the audiobook.
January 28, 2026
Stayed up late to finish this one. Not only does she tackle some quite current themes, Fleming continues to write great characters, and relationships, making this book a quite satisfying read. And now I want to start the whole series all over again.
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.
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.
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.
April 17, 2026
I've enjoyed all the books in this series up to this point, but this one left me flat. I didn't care for the plot, in which I found it hard to stay interested, and the conclusion seemed drawn out and then ended in a rush. I think part of the problem is the extremely long span between the last three books in this series - 2013, 2020 and 2025. Maybe it's just me, but I prefer books that come out every year or two. When there's a span of 5 to 7 years (as is the case here), I've forgotten about the prior book and it's hard to get interested in the characters again.
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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.
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 25, 2026
I’ve loved this series, and hate to see it end if that is true, but I’m satisfied at some of the closure in this most recent book.
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