Cusp of Night

Hode's Hill #1

by Mae Clair

The truth hides in dark places . . .

Recently settled in Hode’s Hill, Pennsylvania, Maya Sinclair is enthralled by the town’s folklore, especially the legend about a centuries-old monster. A devil-like creature with uncanny abilities responsible for several horrific murders, the Fiend has evolved into the stuff of urban myth. But the past lives again when Maya witnesses an assault during the annual “Fiend Fest.” The victim is developer Leland Hode, patriarch of the town’s most powerful family, and he was attacked by someone dressed like the Fiend.

Compelled to discover who is behind the attack and why, Maya uncovers a shortlist of enemies of the Hode clan. The mystery deepens when she finds the journal of a late nineteenth-century spiritualist who once lived in Maya’s house—a woman whose ghost may still linger. Known as the Blue Lady of Hode’s Hill due to a genetic condition, Lucinda Glass vanished without a trace and was believed to be one of the Fiend’s tragic victims. The disappearance of a young couple, combined with more sightings of the monster, trigger Maya to join forces with Leland’s son Collin. But the closer she gets to the truth, the closer she comes to a hidden world of twisted secrets, insanity, and evil that refuses to die . . .

Genres: Mystery, Paranormal, Thriller, Horror, Fantasy, Suspense, Supernatural

232 pages, Kindle Edition

First published June 12, 2018

About the author

A member of the International Thriller Writers, Mae Clair is also a founding member and contributor to the award-winning writing blog, Story Empire. Her preferred genre is mystery/suspense, though she flavors her plots with elements of urban legend and folklore.

Mae is married to to her high school sweetheart, lives in Pennsylvania and is passionate about cryptozoology, old photographs, a good Maine lobster tail, and cats. Sign-up for her newsletter at https://maeclair.com/newsletter

You an also discover more about Mae on her website and blog at MaeClair.com

Finally, follow Mae on BookBub for more bookish recommendations and reviews: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/mae-c...

Reviews

[James · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cusp of Night is the first book in the Hode's Hill series by Mae Clair. I found the book on someone's blog and thought the concept sounded intriguing, so I bought a copy recently. It falls within a few genres, including historical fiction, paranormal, and mystery suspense. It was a great intro the author's style and voice, and I definitely plan to continue reading this series.

In the current period, Maya Sinclair had an accident where she was technically dead for 2 minutes and 22 seconds. During that time, something happened to her, but she's not sure what the impact will be. One hundred years ago, a monster known as the Fiend killed several people in Hode Hill. A famous blue-skinned medium was one of the victims, as was her assistant and one of their clients. This story is told in alternating chapters, covering both perspectives. In modern times, Hode's Hill celebrates the history of the Fiend, not because it was an evil monster but because it made the town semi-famous. During this year's celebration, a new Fiend seems to rise... how and why is it happening again over a hundred years later? Why is Maya now waking up at 2:22 every morning?

This book was a wonderful surprise. I expected it to be well-written and interesting, but it fully captivated my attention. I read a third before bed last night and finished the rest this morning. It is the kind of book that keeps your mind wandering and processing, as there are genealogical puzzles, explored beliefs on mysticism and psychic powers, and a bit of romance and historical points of interest. Clair has woven a tightly knit mystery with spiderweb stories that beckon to come together... and come together they do!

As a story, it was complex yet methodically told. I enjoyed figuring out all the connections, discovering who was telling the truth and who lied to protect a secret. When the major bombshells dropped, I was surprised. I figured out a few but not all. That's a good sign, an author who can distract you with a few smaller revelations to grenade-toss the bigger one. In terms of writing style, it's quite strong and blended well. All Clair's descriptions transport you to the scene, whether it's lighting gas lamps in ~1900 or viewing a modern seance with Ouija boards.

One of my favorite aspects of this book lurks within the tone... it is dark and chilling yet comforting. Quite an uncommon balance, and it helped drive the story forward. As we learn what happened in the past, visiting murder scenes and journal entries, a murky and gloomy tone accompanies us. Ethereal and spooky in a non-traditional manner... how was this monster created? Why do only some people have blue skin? Who is good and who is evil?

The end comes quickly, and it leaves a hint of what might come next in the second book in the series. I found a new author I really enjoyed reading... and highly recommend her to you.

[Dianne · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Fiend is as much a part of the lore of Hode’s Hill, Pennsylvania as the Hode family is, itself. Newcomer Maya Sinclair becomes caught up in the mystery of the serial killer who terrorized the town in the late nineteenth century, but she never thought she would witness its evil return. The past has come back with a vengeance as Leland Hode is viciously assaulted by the Fiend and Maya comes on the gruesome scene on her walk home alone, late at night. Has the Fiend returned? Has it ever left? Monstrous in size, powerful and deadly, terror reigns once again and Maya will discover that perhaps it is more than mere coincidence that she moved to Hode’s Hill.

Every powerful family has their enemies, and the Hodes are no exception, but as Maya digs deeper into the past, she uncovers the mystery of the Blue Lady, a powerful and sought-after spiritualist, believed to be the first tragic victim of the Fiend. Who was the Blue Lady with the heartbreaking life and dark secrets? Was she a monster or a woman plagued by an affliction that left her open and starving for any attention she could find? She once lived in Maya’s house and the answers may lie in the walls that witnessed so much…if only walls could talk…

Mae Clair takes us on a twisted journey through time and back in her latest mesmerizing read, CUSP OF NIGHT. The feel of the 1890’s comes to life, with its dark secrets, heinous betrayals and the jarring inner pain of a woman used for the very differences that forced her to grow up labeled a freak and a monster. What drives Maya to unearth the past with such obsessive fervor? Has Maya’s own past created a connection beyond the veil of death? One man is determined to help her, and together they will learn the nightmare called the Fiend is very much alive…was it ever dead?

Absolutely one of Mae Clair’s best paranormal mysteries to date! I could feel the change in eras, the emotions, I found my own monsters in so many of these characters and had to ask myself, who were the real victims? Deviously dark, this tale unfolds like a coiled snake ready to strike at any time and through it all, the webs that are woven grow into a barbed tapestry of suspense.

Too many riveting, entangled events to dismiss, you may find yourself dreaming of waking at 2:22 am a little cold and no longer alone…Fabulous reading intrigue from an author who knows her craft!

I received a complimentary ARC edition from Kensington Books/Lyrical Underground! My review is voluntary.

Series: Hode's Hill - Book 1
Publisher: Lyrical Underground (June 12, 2018)
Publication Date: June 12, 2018
Genre: Mystery | Thriller | Suspense
Number of Pages: 250
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews, Giveaways, Fabulous Book News: http://tometender.blogspot.com

[Julie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Maya Sinclair is recovering from a nearly fatal car accident. She was dead for more than two minutes, but resuscitated by medical staff. She remembers flitting images, or at least the feeling, of being in the Aether. It was like a holding ground for spirits who would be returning to earth. Maya goes to Hode Hill, PA to spend time with a friend and recover from her physical and mental ordeal. She gets sucked into local lore and gossip almost immediately. The Hode family has run things in Hode Hill for generations, much to the annoyance of some. A secretive research facility on the outskirts of town is tied to at least one death. And, every year the town has a festival formed around local folklore about The Fiend, a murderous, supernatural devil-like creature that murdered several Hode Hill residents in the 1890s. Maya discovers the history revolves around Lucinda Glass, a medium with blue-toned skin, who was killed by The Fiend. When sightings of the monster begin anew in Hode Hill and ghosts haunt the brownstone she's renting, Maya starts delving deeper into the Hode Hill legends.

OMG -- I love this book! I am a sucker for creepy, supernatural horror, and this story just sucked me right in. I couldn't stop reading! The story switches point of view, alternating between Maya in the present day and Lucinda Glass more than 100 years ago. Usually I'm not much of a fan of POV jumps, but for this story it worked perfectly. I am happy to discover this is the first book of a series. The second book, End of Day, is coming out in January 2019! This is the kind of horror that I love to read -- Halloween-y type creepy stories and not gore fests. The monster does attack people in this story, but there are no graphic descriptions of severed limbs or spurting blood. I am happy to discover that another series, Point Pleasant, centered around the Mothman legend. I think I have found the first series I'm going to start reading for Halloween prep this year! I can get myself into the mood of the fall season early this year! Woot! I will most definitely be reading more by this author.

**I voluntarily read a review copy of this book from Kensington via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.**

[Sherry Fundin · Rating 4 out of 5]

The truth may hide in dark places, but Maya WILL go there!

Mae Clair is one of my go to authors and she did not disappoint in this riveting supernatural thriller that takes us from the present to the past and back again.

More missing people and more monster sightings has Maya Sinclair determined to find answers to the mystery. She teams up with Collin Leland and he takes her places she never would have went on her own.

The danger is very real, but th
at will never stop Maya from seeking the answers and doing what is necessary to stop the monster.

I love when urban legends come to life on the pages and the mystery keeps me guessing. Where the dark and unknown keep me on the edge of my seat, wondering…WHY? WHO? It is not always apparent in Mae Clair’s novels who is the bad ‘guy’ and who is the good ‘guy’. In Cusp of Night, there is plenty of blame to go around and plenty of emotion wrung from me as I read along, sometimes shocked, sometimes disgusted, and sometimes down right pissed off.

I voluntarily reviewed a free copy of Cusp of Night by Mae Clair.

See more at fundinmental

[Maranda · Rating 5 out of 5]

CUSP is the Turning Point of one period to the next. Clair visits the life of a nineteenth century spiritualist known as the Blue Lady. Fear is realized and life secrets are revealed when Maya Sinclair, a modern day librarian comes to live in the abode once inhabited by the Blue Lady now long dead. Hode's Hill Pennsylvania has its history shadowed by murders committed by THE FIEND. Haunted telling by Clair of what happens when the Fiend returns to kill and a spirit reaches out to Maya for closure. Anxious to see where this series will go. No cliff hangers just a spell binding read. "A copy of this book was provided by Kensington Books via Netgalley with no requirements for a review. Comments here are my honest opinion." THIS AUTHOR DOES GREAT PLOT AND CHARACTERS!!

[Jacqui · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Mae Clair's Cusp of Night (Lyrical Press 2018), Book 1 in her Hode's Hill series, Maya Sinclair takes a job doing library research in a town she has never lived in, moving to a home managed by the town's namesake, Hode Development. What she does know is she loves research, is drawn to the small-town nature of Hode's Hill, and is eager to see where it all leads. It doesn't take long to find out that the town is known more than anything for gory killings committed at the turn of the century that involved a fiend and a woman with blue skin--a spiritualist known as the Blue Lady of Hode’s Hill. What Maya doesn't realize until later is that the Blue Lady not only lived in the house Mae now rents but held her seances there. On the night the town holds what it calls Fiend Fest to celebrate this strange creature, the town's patriarch, Leland Hode, is attacked and Maya is witness to the assault. Following that, she encounters strange occurrences in her new house that convince her it is haunted. She forces the young leader of Hode Development, Collin Hode, to face the haunting with her--after all, it is his house--and everything takes off from there. As she digs more into the mystery around the Blue Lady and the rumors swirling around her death, whatever happened back in the 1890s seems to transcend time and be part of the present day world around Maya and Hode's Hill.

Sounds pretty scary? Yes, but not the typical horror story. In fact, I'd call it more of a monster story than horror as Maya faces down a creature who seems as scary as any monster her brain can conjure up and impervious to death. The events come at readers fast with a host of fascinating and multilayered characters well-positioned to people the entire series. As one of Clair's characters says in the story:

"It's time to get your ghost on."

I will definitely be reading more of this series.

[Joyce · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 and 1 / 2 stars

This book switches back and forth between the late 1890’s and the present. In the 1890’s it tells the story of Lucinda “Lucy” Glass, a spiritualist and who is a woman with an unfortunate affliction and Maya Sinclair who in the present day is a reference librarian.

In 1900 Charlotte Hode was on her way to see her spiritualist, Lucinda Glass, also known as The Blue Lady. It was very dark and foggy. When she got to Ms. Glass’ home she discovered she was ill. Returning home, she is attacked and killed. The flashbacks tell the story of Lucinda.

Maya Sinclair a recent settler of Hode’s Hill, Pennsylvania attends her first fiend Festival. Many people dress up like what they imagine the Fiend must have looked like and compete in a contest to see who makes the best Fiend. The Fiend dates from the early twentieth century and murdered several people in horrifying ways while dressed in a truly scary costume.

Later following the festival in the present day, Leland Hode is attacked in an alley by a huge creature. Maya happens upon him and sees the creature. He is unconscious in the hospital. More people are attacked. Fear spreads through the town.

Collin Hode, son of the wealthy patriarch Leland is positive that his father is hiding something. Maya’s home is being visited by strange occurrences. Beset by paranormal-like happening in the house, Maya asks Collin to stay over. The occurrences always begin at 2:22 am. When Collin witnesses what’s going on, he and Maya team up to discover just what is happening in the little town. When Collin and Maya find Lucinda glass’ journal behind a hole in the wall they made to trace the odd noises and such, Maya is fascinated.

When they get together to compare notes, Collin drops a bombshell into the conversation. It all makes sense now. Why Lucinda wants Maya to “find him.” Why the murders and attacks have been taking place. They need to speak to Detective David Gregg and tell him the truth.

In an exciting and revealing conclusion, all is revealed. What a good story!

I liked Collin and Maya and their friends. This book has plenty of twists to get the reader’s mind going. It was brilliant. The characters were well-drawn. Although the book has a touch of the paranormal, I very much enjoyed that it wasn’t overdone. It is well written and plotted. It reads seamlessly and in a linear fashion. Lucinda’s life is fascinating, as is the Hode family history. Maya and Collin make a very good pair – and not too bad as amateur detectives. I would like to see more of them in the future. It has just the right amount of drama and tension. There was sufficient background information given on all the major players, especially Maya, Collin and poor tortured Lucinda, but it did not intrude on the story at all. It added to the richness of it.

I want to thank NetGalley and Kensington Books/Lyrical Underground for forwarding to me a copy of this absolutely wonderful and exciting book for me to read, enjoy and review.

[Carmen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Erie, suspenseful, sometimes sad, Cusp of Night held my interest up to the last page and remained with me long after I finished it.
The spine-tingling essence of the plot is thoroughly enjoyable. From the very beginning, the author, Mae Clair, sets the scene for a fascinating, intriguing story.
Maya Sinclair’s arrival in Hode’s Hill, a small community, triggers a chain of events that both frightens and bewilders her. You never know what secrets people in a small town try to hide.
The Hodes are rich and content. But, as the saying goes, “Money does not always bring happiness.” Lies and ugly secrets are well guarded behind the façade of a happy family.
I am a believer of psychic ability so this book was for me. Nothing happens without a reason. It is as if Lucinda has called Maya to come to Hode’s Hill to help her. The day Maya comes, people in Hode’s Hill celebrate the Fiend, a legendary creature, a kind of monster that took many lives.
Will Collin discover who is the liar in his family? Can Maya manage to master her fright and continue living in a house that is undoubtedly spooked? Is there any connection between Lady Glass and someone in Hode’s Hill? Who is responsible for the horrendous crimes and attacks that frighten the community? Is the Fiend real? Only reading the novel you can find the answer to all these questions.
The author's writing was so good I felt as if I were right in the story--I could visualize everything as it happened. There are no grammar errors or any other errors. Well written and structurally sound, Cusp of Night moves with really quick action. I couldn't wait to continue reading, after having struggled to put the book away to deal with everyday life for a while.
There was no foul language or explicit sex scenes in this story, which is so refreshing. Shows you that good stories can be told and hold your interests without sex and profanity.
The characters are well developed, they show a strong sense of battling with a conscience, making them markedly human in the process.
I enjoyed the intrigue and the plot kept me guessing. A good thriller for anyone who likes to try to figure things out.
All in all a great read! Tell everyone you know and who enjoys drama, intrigue and paranormal thrillers to read Mae Clair’s books

[Jan Sikes · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have loved every book I've read, by Mae Clair, and Cusp of Night is no exception. I loved how Mae created two dual timelines and she was able to take me seamlessly from one to the other. I also admire Mae for her historical accuracy. I had never heard of blue-skinned people but discovered their existence through this book. My heart broke for the blue-skinned woman in Mae's book, Lucinda Glass. She only wanted to be loved and cherished as any normal woman would. But, the circumstances that surrounded her life made it impossible. She was used and discarded. But, her dabbling in mediumship turned her into an uncontrollable monster that created a myth and legend. All of this was in the 1800s. The way the author brought the story into modern day Hode's Hill, Pennsylvania, and the twists and turns the plot took was nothing short of brilliant. I kept trying to guess the outcome and solve the mystery as I read, but it wasn't until the very end of the book that it all came to a satisfying climactic conclusion. If you love a good mystery with plenty of action and drama all based around a local myth and monster, you'll love this new book from Mae Clair! Well-written and brilliant storyline.

[Teri · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story has everything that intrigues me - ghosts, mediums, seances, buried secrets.  And that cover!  I've read several other books by this author, and couldn't wait to dive into this new series.

The timelines blend seamlessly in this intricately plotted supernatural mystery, and the gradual reveal of Lucinda's life is both fascinating and heartbreaking.  Maya is also a compelling protagonist, and I enjoyed her reaction upon realizing she wasn't the only resident in her house - entirely believable.  A well-drawn supporting cast rounds out the character list, but don't go making assumptions while reading - not everything is what it appears on the surface, and characters may surprise you.      

There are a few chilling moments in the novel that gave this horror lover warm fuzzies.  I also loved that one of the characters was reading Salem's Lot (one of my fav King books) at 2 am in the morning while waiting for a supernatural event to occur or not occur.  I could totally be friends with this person.   

If you're a fan of supernatural mystery/suspense, you can't go wrong with this series, and I'm excited to see what the next book brings.  

[Harmony Kent · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cusp of Night is a supernatural suspense that keeps you intrigued all the way from beginning to end. I love the timeline switches between modern day and the late 1800s, which were written seamlessly and are easy to follow. It is obvious how in-depth the author’s research was, and Mae Clair manages to build this into the story and educate the reader without appearing to do so at all, producing an effortless and entertaining read. I loved the blue lady and the two main characters. Every character, major and minor, was written true to life and came alive from the page. I look forward to reading the second book in the Hode’s Hill series and have pre-ordered End of Day already. While this is book 1 of a planned series, it is a fantastic stand-alone read and a book I highly recommend.

[Judith Post · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book! The research on spiritualism...and how mediums tricked "sitters"...was remarkable. The story was seeped in a dark, eerie tone and the mystery was solid. The characters felt real. I gladly followed Maya and Collin as they struggled to find answers. I enjoy paranormal and mysteries, and this book combined both really well. I highly recomment this!

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, this was fantastic! Having already been a huge fan of Mae, I admit I went into this with tremendous expectations, all of which were exceeded. However, I must admit that in the beginning, I did get a little confused about who was who regarding the names of various family members and their roles in the community - but my confusion did not last long. As typical with Mae Clair, after introductions were made and a small bit of backstory was provided, a roller-coaster ride of mystery, suspense, paranormal activity, questions, doubts, and revelations began. Blended within this story are legends of a blue-skinned and enormous monster, a blue-skinned fraud of a medium, the death of a newborn, missing people, murdered people, ghosts, creepy rocking chairs, and so much more. I assure you that after reading this, you will dread the idea of seeing the time 2:22 on a clock, especially if it's a cold night!

I instantly liked and connected with main character Maya, although I quickly determined that she should have a side-job as a private investigator/detective along with her librarian position. Collin Hode had me guessing initially, but I soon came to adore him also, especially when I felt like the friendship between him and Maya was strengthening. But, as typical with Mae Clair, romance is the least of her worries in her novels and instead, she focuses on slowly unwrapping a package for her readers that is full of questions, surprises, moments where you think you have it all figured out, but then brings on another twist. 

Cusp of Night is a unique mystery/suspense/paranormal novel in that it has a set of main characters in present day, as well as, main characters from the late 1800's to the early 1900's. However, don't worry about any confusion because these different characters from different time periods simply increase the depth of this story. All of the unique elements and stories within the story are relevant and not overly embellished, but instead, they are unique, addictive, and creepy. If you are already familiar with Mae's masterful storytelling, then I assure you that Cusp of Night will not disappoint. If you have not yet had the pleasure of being sucked into one of Mae's novels, then you are missing out! I simply cannot find enough words of praise for this novel, this new series, and Mae Clair as an author. 

**Many thanks to Mae Clair, NetGalley, and the publisher for providing a copy of this ARC in exchange for my honest review!

[Staci Troilo · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you’re reading a novel that’s thick with atmosphere, rife with lore, fraught with tension, and chock full of characters you adore or despise, there’s a good chance you’re reading a novel by Mae Clair. This novel, CUSP OF NIGHT, ticks all of the boxes. And then some.

Maya Sinclair is a perfect heroine. She’s flawed, but in a likable way, and is the perfect vehicle to carry the contemporary timeline in this novel. I loved learning the history of the town—and the histories of spiritualism and freak genetic disorders—through her perspective. Her cohort in this story is Collin Hode. He’s an enigmatic town figure, a perfect blend of stoic, rational, honorable, and open-minded. His character arc kept me on the edge of my seat. And now I have a book crush on him. I really hope we see more of him in later novels in this series. The other town characters are just as vibrant—some I despise, others I love. The cast is rich and varied and more than capable of carrying the plot.

The historical timeline is equally riveting. I learned so much history in such a short space, and I did so without noticing because I was utterly enthralled. The characters in the past are as compelling and interesting as those in the present timeline.

And speaking of two timelines, Clair merged them beautifully. The threads combined in a perfect yet unexpected way. I was on the edge of my seat throughout, and the climax was swift and satisfying.

Clair has a way with language that’s unparalleled, and she uses her sizeable talents to depict worlds that are so vivid, the settings become characters in their own right. I didn’t ‘read’ about these places. I was there. It was literally like I was walking through my hometown. And I loved it.

This story offers something for everyone—mystery, romance, suspense, history, paranormal entities, medical anomalies—all tied up in an expertly-crafted bow. This is one book you don’t want to miss.

[Robbie Cheadle · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first book I have read by Mae Clair and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Maya Sinclair has recently moved to Hode's Hill to restart her life following a terrible car accident. Maya was clinically dead for 2 minutes and 22 seconds and found this time when her soul resided in the Aether, Heaven's waiting room, very traumatic. She has obtained a great job at the local library and found the perfect place to live for an affordable price. She also has a close friend who lives in the town and life is looking good.

Life has a tendency to go haywire and Maya has not been in town long when she attends a local festival celebrating an interesting and horrific creature from the town's past called the fiend. While at the festival, Maya gets an introduction to some of the tensions and problems between different personalities in the town. During her walk home after the festival, she comes across the wealthiest man in town being attacked in an alleyway but a huge, monster-like creature. These two events set Maya off on a strange journey to discover exactly what is going on in the town. In order to answer some of her questions, she is forced to research the town's frightening history and also face the reality of her time in the Aether and what happened there.

I enjoyed Maya's character and how she evolved and matured over the course of the book. The hint of romance between Maya and Colin Hode was also a pleasant distraction. The author clearly did thorough research on seances and mediums during the 19th century and I found the information on this topic to be very interesting. Lady Glass was a fascinating and troubled personality who enabled the author to introduce some clever twists and turns to the plot.

[Bonnye Reed · Rating 5 out of 5]

GAB Cusp of Night is the first of the Hode's Hill Mystery/Thrillers by Mae Clair, and though it establishes a grounding for those books that follow, it is completely stand alone. Hode's Hill, Pennsylvania is a very small town even today, and Cusp of Night is set in two time periods, beginning April 9, 1900, and a following tale set in the present day. The generations of several families bridge these times, and carry the tale with them.

And it is an exciting story, filled with mysteries and monsters and things that go bump in the night. Nice people - good people and those that - aren't. I very much enjoyed this novel, and can't wait to read the next installment. Mae Clair is an author I can heartily recommend to friends and family.

I received a free electronic copy of this historical novel from Mae Clair and Kensington Books in exchange for an honest review. Thank you all for sharing your hard work with me.

[Anita Dawes · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Equal parts monster and fallen angel…”
I knew when I read the blurb that I had to read the first book in Mae Clair’s new series, Cusp of Night and I wasn’t disappointed.
It is an unusual story, beautifully written, dripping with a chilling mystery that draws you into the dark world of spiritualism and myth. Mae Clair skilfully blends and intertwines the chapters, connecting the reader to the 1900’s and the present day and the mysteries of both.
I especially loved the way the mysteries from the past begin to resonate with the present circumstances, leading the hero, Maya Sinclair into the paranormal discovery of an evil that somehow can live forever.
Why would an evil entity visit the present, dragging tragedy and horror with it?
This is the mystery that Maya needs to solve, as disaster begins to strike the people around her. Would she be able to solve the mystery and discover the truth behind the legend?
The tension had me chewing my nails, and then the unexpected sadness had me reaching for a box of tissues, but I thoroughly enjoyed every word.
Already described as “unique, addictive and creepy…” this new series promises to be a best seller and I can highly recommend Cusp of Night to anyone who loves a haunting and formidable story…

[Deborah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Opening with a grisly murder in the 19th century, first victim of the serial killer dubbed ‘the Fiend’, this entrancing tale then skips to the present day to introduce us to Maya Sinclair, a young woman seeking a fresh start following a traumatic accident that left her dead for over 2 minutes before being revived. Her first social engagement in her new town of Hode’s Hill finds her at the annual Fiend Festival, which takes an unsettling turn when she discovers a man who has been attacked by a gruesome-looking figure.
The two tales are told alongside each other, the historical one jumping back to start at the beginning with the origin and rise of the renowned medium, Lucinda Glass, and the strange events that unfold in Maya’s life when it transpires her new home was where Lucinda apparently met her end. And Lucinda isn’t quite finished with life yet…
This is the first of Clair’s books for me, but it won’t be the last. Her writing is exquisitely detailed, bringing fresh visuals to every scene. Her characters are so well drawn you feel you could walk up to them in the street and hold a conversation with them. The intertwining stories keep that edge-of-the-seat need to continue reading, even when you know you should really get on with your working day, and the conclusion is satisfying and complete.
I was a little reluctant to read this at the beginning because of the horror tag I’d seen attached to it, but nothing was too horrific or frightening, merely suspenseful, and I’m very glad I gave into my friends’ encouragement. I have already purchased and begun book #2 in the series.
Highly recommended for fans of suspense and mystery, with a fairly hefty dose of ghosts/paranormal thrown in.

[Jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

*I received this book as part of a blog tour. All opinions are my own.*

I loved the back and forth between present day and the past. It was a thrilling journey as you learned piece by piece what happened to Lucinda Glass, and how it effected the present reality of all the characters.

I was on the edge of my seat for the majority of this story. You always feel like you're going to get an answer, and then the author gives you half an answer and another question. It was never boring, and it was completely unpredictable. When I finished the book, I was in shock at just how well everything fell into place.

I enjoyed out main character, Maya. She has a kind heart, and she is willing to dig deep into the past to help everyone she can. She is a compelling female lead, who is able to fend for herself, and that is a great quality to have. I also enjoyed reading Collin's character. He seemed to have a bad habit of locking his feelings away, and it was great to see his development as he learned to let Maya in.

Overall, I really loved this story. It was tense, thrilling and mysterious. I wasn't able to guess what was going on, and I loved the writing quality. It felt authentic and possible.

[Debbie Peterson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have received an ARC from NetGalley, and my oh my...

What a wondrous beginning to a brand new series by gifted author, Mae Clair!

Having recently moved to Hode’s Hill, Pennsylvania, Maya Sinclair gets more than just the bargain she received on her new home. You know that lovely old idiom, “if these walls could talk?” Well, in their own unique way, Maya’s walls really do. Cusp of Night treats us to legends, phantoms, family secrets, and ghosts—all wrapped around a little known historical fact involving people with blue skin…

Unsettling circumstances draw Collin Hode, ancestor of the town’s namesake, along with some of Maya’s trusted friends into the mysterious events that begin with the “Fiend Festival.” Events that must be unraveled layer by layer, with the help of a ghost from the past.

Evident in all of her books, Mae Clair has a talent for painting magnificent pictures with the stroke of her pen. It isn’t at all difficult to become one with the characters and follow them on their journey. So, grab a copy of this book, settle in, and make yourself comfortable. Shivers and suspense make this story an edge-of-your-seat page turner that you won’t want to miss!

[Joan Hall · Rating 5 out of 5]

It’s not often that I find an author whose work I enjoy so much that I will automatically buy each new release. Such is the case with Mae Clair. When I learned she was starting the Hode’s Hill Series, I eagerly looked forward to reading the first book. Cusp of Night did not disappoint.

Clair weaves two parallel storylines—one from the past, another from the present—into one compelling story that will keep you on the edge of your seat. She blends mystery and suspense with history and the paranormal with a little romance thrown in.

I highly recommend Cusp of Night. As you might have guessed, I’ve already preordered the second book of the series.

[Valen · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book was alright plot wise, but honestly the characters had little to no personality. I couldn’t really look at any characters and describe them, other than the basic details that really didn't explain why they would act one way or another. I also feel like it was very loosely connected in general and more foreshadowing could have been done. 3/5 Stars - Great concept, but characters really need some work.

[Vashti Quiroz-Vega · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great book! I was intrigued with the story from beginning to end. I can’t wait to read the other two books in the series. I highly recommend this book.

[N.A. Granger · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book, one in the Hode’s Hill series by Mae Claire. It had all the things that make for a good mystery – a historical basis, an unknown murderous entity, a psychic, a touch of paranormal, a growing romantic relationship and great story telling. What’s not to like? It was a perfect summer beach read, only I read it on a boat circumnavigating Iceland…
The story opens in 1900 with a dead-of-rainy-night visit by society woman Charlette Hode to a renowned spiritualist, Lucinda Glass, on whom she has come to depend. She’s been warned that the Fiend – a killer with seemingly supernatural abilities to kill and disappear – may be about, but she pays no mind…
In the present day, Maya Sinclair, recently recovered from a car accident during which she was dead for two minutes, settles in to an old house in Hode’s Hill, Pennsylvania. She soon discovers the house was once owned by the renowned psychic Lucinda Glass, who was called the Blue Lady because of her blue-hued skin and who was killed by the Fiend. When sightings of a strange creature occur at the time of the annual ‘Fiend Fest’ and Maya begins to experience strange happenings in her house, she can’t help but try to learn more of the history of Hode’s Hill and the Blue Lady. She soon meets the son of the current Hode patriarch, who believes her account of the mysterious events in her house, and she also learns of a secret research facility located outside the town.
I won’t say more because I want to leave other readers to the delight and chills of the story. Who was the Fiend? Has it returned to life or is it a more modern version of the legend?
Mae Claire has crafted a gem of a creepy thriller about supernatural occurrences and a centuries-old monster. She creates the perfect turn-of- the- century ambience, and I liked the alternating point of view from the 20th century Lucinda Glass and the modern-day Maya. The author clearly did researched spiritualists, who were so popular in Lucinda’s time, which lends authenticity top that aspect of the book.
The tale, while chilling, is not gory. There is no lurid blood-letting, and Maya and her friend Ivy are authentic characters. The author lays out the clues to the mystery in an agonizing precision – so I had to read faster – and I loved the way the twists and turns in the story came together at the end. A perfect paranormal cozy!
I’m anxious to read the next in the Hode’s Hill series.

[Colleen Chesebro · Rating 5 out of 5]

After surviving a car accident that nearly killed her, Maya Sinclair moves to Hodes Hill, Pennsylvania. She decides to rent an old brownstone close to where Charlotte Hode was murdered over a century ago.

Maya is still haunted by the time she spent in the Aether, hovering between life and death in a reality where souls with unfinished business lingered. Now, she finds her perceptions altered, opening the doors to her own clairvoyance.
It doesn’t take long for the house to connect with its new occupant. When the clock reaches, 2:22 am known as the cusp of night, terrifying noises explode from the walls of the house. Eventually, Maya recognizes a figure from the Aether… what could it mean?

In a city where the people refuse to let go of the past, the night of the annually celebrated Fiend Festival finally arrives. The townsfolk dress up in costumes to resemble the terrifying creature that murdered Charlotte Hode all those years before. However, this year is different. Something is out there, and it‘s killed again!

It turns out that Hode’s Hill sponsored the spiritualist movement of the Nineteenth century in the form of the Blue Lady, a blue-skinned spiritualist who perpetrated a scam against unsuspecting townsfolk. Now, she uses Maya’s sensitivity to the Aether to carry out her task.

Clair skillfully incorporates the tragic story of Lucy Strick, the Blue Lady, with that of Maya Sinclair bringing the past into the future in a story that was so riveting I couldn’t it put this book down.

The author also displays a rare command over language that’s unique. Her vivid descriptions and settings put me in the story, as if I’d experienced the events myself. I’ll never look at my watch at 2:22 am again!

Maya Sinclair is the type of heroine I like the most. She’s flawed, but in a way that makes her seem multidimensional and very human. This town is full of characters, which makes the story even more realistic. The Hode family contains some despicable figures, but Collin Hode teams up with Maya to help solve the mystery of the blue lady.

If I could give this book a rating over five stars, I would. I rarely say that, but this series is exceptional. I’m already reading the second book (End of Day) in the series and have purchased the third book, (Eventide) as well.

If you love mystery and suspense with a healthy helping of the paranormal, you won’t want to miss this series.

[Tessa Talks Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jumping into paranormal suspense is a significant leap for me. I don’t like horror. I don’t get a thrill from being scared. So I was a bit nervous starting Cusp of Night. What if it is too scary? Gives me nightmares? Or worse?

Cusp of Night is an incredible read. It is suspenseful but never once even steps a toe over the line into horror. Did I get chills and goosebumps? You bet I did and more than once. But I was never scared and never once hid under the covers.

What I loved

I loved the characters – all of them, even the more nefarious ones. My favorite character, however, is Maya, the main character. If I were a character in the novel, I would be Maya. Healthily skeptical but open to possibilities, she is mostly concerned with getting to the bottom of the mystery and stopping the murderer. She has gumption when she needs it but is never foolhardy. And, as an aside, she works at the local library - with books – enough said.

The story keeps you on the edge of your seat, whether you are back in time or in the present. Both storylines are compelling, captivated my undivided attention, and worked seamlessly to tell the tale. Sometimes having two different but related storylines intertwining can be confusing, but in Cusp of Night, it balances out well and makes perfect sense.

I love the use of the little known blood disorder, Methemoglobinemia, that causes people who have it to appear blue. I enjoy learning about oddities that I might have never heard of otherwise, and it provided an intriguing layer to the story that brought it full circle at the end.

The setting is both familiar and eerie at the same time. I love the small-town setting with all of its everyday small-town drama. The eeriness of the night works perfectly in this story, and it is an eeriness that you can only experience in a place where everything shuts down for the evening.

To Read or Not to Read
Be prepared to take on all three books in the series because you won’t be able to stop after book one. You will, without a doubt, want to read them back-to-back.

[John Maberry · Rating 5 out of 5]

It’s the first book in a trilogy. I have the second loaded on my tablet. I’ll be getting to that soon and the third will follow. It’s a well-written book with well-developed characters. It covers lots of writing territory, not all of which I typically read, but I’m glad I extended myself. The Goodreads blurb lists these genres:
• Mystery
• Paranormal
• Thriller
• Suspense
• Supernatural
• Fantasy horror
• And more

The opening confused me. A woman traveling in a carriage along a street with gas-fueled lamps lighting the way on a foggy night. On April 9, 1900, Edison’s electric street lights hadn’t extended to Hode’s Hill, Pennsylvania. The trip to Lady Glass, a spiritualist, didn’t end well for Charlotte Hode. A member of the family that began developing the town during the 18th century.

A few pages later, we’re in the present day. That's when we're introduced to Maya Sinclair, a librarian from the big city who has relocated to Hode’s Hill. She rents a brownstone with much history—including a ghost. That won’t be immediately obvious, but her nightmare-disturbed sleep brings her to the problems of the ancestors of the current neighbors and townspeople. Sinclair has her own history—who came back from a brief death caused by a traffic accident. That made connections with the deceased an unwelcome experience.

There were mysterious deaths in the past—and in the present. Sinclair and the panoply of characters she interacts with eventually solve some of the unexplained issues. In the meantime, the town continues its “Fiend Fest”—the festival in which those so inclined dress up and make up in the monster’s guise that killed people long ago. Lots to explore here. If you like half of those genres, you’ll enjoy this book because Mae Clair brings them to life—and death.

[D. Peach · Rating 5 out of 5]

An old traffic accident left Maya Sinclair briefly dead and wandering in the Aether. Now, fully recovered and newly settled in the town of Hode’s Hill, that experience makes her the perfect person to solve some centuries-old mysteries that are entwined with a present-day haunting, murder, and manhunt.

Hode’s Hill is a place where the spiritualist movement of the 19th century was present in the form of the Blue Lady, a blue-skinned spiritualist who, for the most part, ran a sophisticated scam. Though long dead, the Blue Lady, Lucinda Glass, has some things to set right, and she will use Maya’s sensitivity to the Aether to accomplish her task.

The plot is complex and jam-packed with a lot of different things going on, including some red herrings and twists. Clair does a marvelous job of laying out clues and keeping all the elements progressing until they come together at the end. The multiple threads held my interest and kept the book’s pace chugging along.

One aspect of the story-construction that I thoroughly enjoyed was the time jumps. The narrative alternated between present day events and Lucinda’s accounts of her life. Lucinda’s story was “experienced” by Maya when she entered trancelike states. The characters are well-developed, varied, and realistic. Maya, Lucinda, and Collin Hode are the stars, and Clair took great care to make them real people with full personalities and inner emotional worlds.

Descriptions were meticulous and painted vivid pictures. It’s clear that Clair did her homework on the spiritualist movement and her knowledge shines through in the details. Cusp of Night struck me as part cozy mystery and part occult-thriller. Yes, there is a monster and an evil entity! Highly entertaining!

[Balroop Singh · Rating 5 out of 5]

‘Cusp of Night’ by Mae Clair gripped me right in the beginning with Charlotte’s walk through the rain, the mention of Fiend and the mystery that deepens with each page as the echoes of footsteps reverberate through your heart; the view of Chinkwe river sets the tone of a riveting tale of Lady Glass, the mysterious blue lady who claimed to be a spiritualist. The description of surroundings is vivid and exotic, Mae’s style of writing is enchanting and her adroit merging of past and present so engaging that it would leave you spellbound!

I wouldn’t stay a day in such a house but Maya pushes all her fears aside; is determined to discover the story of Lucinda Glass and continues to dig deeper, stunned by the revelations she stumbles across. Clair’s stories focus on characters and this one is no exception. Superbly crafted, Lucinda towers above all characters despite her weaknesses; the emotional upheavals that she had to overcome have been drawn well. Maya Sinclair is just a medium to embellish the persona of the blue woman who craved to live a normal life. Collin has his own reasons to assist her in unraveling the mysteries connected with “The Fiend.”

The story also reiterates the fact that it’s not fair to judge a person by his or her reputation. Despite exquisite mysteries, this is a fascinating story that comments on hypocritical relationships and their effect on people who consider you dear. Whether it is Simon or Leland Hode, Althea or Dante – each one carries a subtle message for humanity.

[Jessica Bronder · Rating 5 out of 5]

Maya Sinclair has just moved to Hode’s Hill, PA and has discovered the town is rich in history. The first being a creature called the Fiend that has a history of brutally killing people. The town folk dress up in what they think the Fiend would look like and have a festival to celebrate it. On Maya’s first Fiend Festival she witnesses the attack of Leland Hode. Maya decides to look into this attack and find out who the attacker really is.

At the same time Maya has strange, paranormal like occurrences happening in her house at 2:22 am. When she looks into this she learns that The Blue Lady, Lucinda Glass. Lucy was afflicted with an illness that made her an outcast and freak. But it was her dabbling in the paranormal that made her special. When Maya and Leland’s son Collin discover Lucy’s journal, they learn that much more is happening in Hode’s Hill than they thought.

I really enjoyed this story. It is the first book I have read from Mae Clair but it won’t be my last. I easy got into the story and was very curious about both the Fiend and Lucy. My heart did break for her and all that she goes through. Maya and Collin are a great couple and amateur sleuths.

This story has a great paranormal twist to keep it interesting along with great mystery that had me guessing until the end. I can’t wait to read more about Hode’s Hill and other stories from Mae Clair.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. I voluntarily chose to read and post an honest review.