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Just After Midnight
From the New York Times bestselling author of Pay It Forward comes an uplifting and poignant novel about friendship, trust, and facing your fears.
No longer tolerating her husband's borderline abuse, Faith escapes to her parents' California beach house to plan her next move. She never dreamed her new chapter would involve befriending Sarah, a fourteen-year-old on the run from her father and reeling from her mother's sudden and suspicious death.
While Sarah's grandmother scrambles to get custody, Faith is charged with spiriting the girl away on a journey that will restore her hope: Sarah implores Faith to take her to Falkner's Midnight Sun, the prized black mare that her father sold out from under her. Sarah shares an unbreakable bond with Midnight and can't bear to be apart from her. Throughout the sweltering summer, as they follow Midnight from show to show, Sarah comes to terms with what she witnessed on the terrible night her mother died.
But the journey is far from over. Faith must learn the value of trusting her instincts - and realize that the key to her future, and Sarah's, is in her hands.
No longer tolerating her husband's borderline abuse, Faith escapes to her parents' California beach house to plan her next move. She never dreamed her new chapter would involve befriending Sarah, a fourteen-year-old on the run from her father and reeling from her mother's sudden and suspicious death.
While Sarah's grandmother scrambles to get custody, Faith is charged with spiriting the girl away on a journey that will restore her hope: Sarah implores Faith to take her to Falkner's Midnight Sun, the prized black mare that her father sold out from under her. Sarah shares an unbreakable bond with Midnight and can't bear to be apart from her. Throughout the sweltering summer, as they follow Midnight from show to show, Sarah comes to terms with what she witnessed on the terrible night her mother died.
But the journey is far from over. Faith must learn the value of trusting her instincts - and realize that the key to her future, and Sarah's, is in her hands.
Audible Audio
First published December 4, 2018
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About the author
Catherine Ryan Hyde
72 books6,187 followersCatherine Ryan Hyde is the author of more than 50 published and forthcoming books.
She is co-author, with publishing industry blogger Anne R. Allen, of How to be a Writer in the E-Age: a Self-Help Guide.
Her bestselling 1999 novel Pay It Forward was made into a major Warner Brothers motion picture. It was chosen by the American Library Association for its Best Books for Young Adults list, and translated into more than two dozen languages for distribution in over 30 countries. Simon & Schuster released a special 15th anniversary edition in December of ’14.
Pay It Forward: Young Readers Edition, an age-appropriate edited edition of the original novel, was released by Simon & Schuster in August of ‘14. It is suitable for children as young as eight.
You can learn much more about Catherine at www.catherineryanhyde.com
She is co-author, with publishing industry blogger Anne R. Allen, of How to be a Writer in the E-Age: a Self-Help Guide.
Her bestselling 1999 novel Pay It Forward was made into a major Warner Brothers motion picture. It was chosen by the American Library Association for its Best Books for Young Adults list, and translated into more than two dozen languages for distribution in over 30 countries. Simon & Schuster released a special 15th anniversary edition in December of ’14.
Pay It Forward: Young Readers Edition, an age-appropriate edited edition of the original novel, was released by Simon & Schuster in August of ‘14. It is suitable for children as young as eight.
You can learn much more about Catherine at www.catherineryanhyde.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 725 reviews
January 20, 2022
Faith’s escape to her parents’ beach house had been one born of desperation. She had finally left Robert and his belligerence, his domineering and cruel behaviour. Now she wanted to make plans for her future. The day Faith met fourteen-year-old Sarah, she was saddened by the look in her eyes, the obvious desolation in her manner. Sarah’s grandmother had taken Sarah to their beach house to give the girl a chance to heal, while Sarah’s grandmother tried to gain custody. Two weeks prior her mother had died, and she didn’t want to see or be with her father.
A plan was hatched, and Faith and Sarah left the beach for places unknown, while custody access continued to be debated. Falkner’s Midnight Sun had been Sarah’s beloved horse since she was just a small child. Their bond had to be seen to be believed. But Sarah’s father had sold Midnight and her devastation was heartbreaking to see. All Sarah wanted to do was to go to one of the local shows where she was sure Midnight would be. Gradually, as Faith and Sarah followed Midnight around the country, Sarah made an important decision. But would the results be what she wanted? And what would be the outcome for Faith?
Just Before Midnight is another outstanding and poignant novel by Catherine Ryan Hyde – an author I can’t find fault with. Words fail me with Just Before Midnight – it was a pleasure to read, and it’ll stay with me for some time to come. Remarkable characters showing courage in the face of adversity; this novel is about friendship, love and trust, and what happens when what you fear the most, isn’t as fearful as you thought, once you’d faced it. Highly recommended.
A plan was hatched, and Faith and Sarah left the beach for places unknown, while custody access continued to be debated. Falkner’s Midnight Sun had been Sarah’s beloved horse since she was just a small child. Their bond had to be seen to be believed. But Sarah’s father had sold Midnight and her devastation was heartbreaking to see. All Sarah wanted to do was to go to one of the local shows where she was sure Midnight would be. Gradually, as Faith and Sarah followed Midnight around the country, Sarah made an important decision. But would the results be what she wanted? And what would be the outcome for Faith?
Just Before Midnight is another outstanding and poignant novel by Catherine Ryan Hyde – an author I can’t find fault with. Words fail me with Just Before Midnight – it was a pleasure to read, and it’ll stay with me for some time to come. Remarkable characters showing courage in the face of adversity; this novel is about friendship, love and trust, and what happens when what you fear the most, isn’t as fearful as you thought, once you’d faced it. Highly recommended.
November 3, 2018
I swear there is no other author who writes about unlikely friendships quite as authentically as CRH does, many of her novels showcase new relationships between a young person and someone older but each new book sheds light on various themes and issues making them unique. I don’t often use the term page turner in WF but her books really are, once you enter the world she creates it’s hard to step back into reality.
This follows Faith, a woman who just left her husband and Sarah a young teenager whose mother just died. All of CRH’s books are perfect for animal lovers, but if you love horses this is a must read. The entire book centers on Sarah’s magical relationship with her horse Midnight and it highlights the special bond between human and animal. It was really beautiful and as Faith helps Sarah through her grief and pain she finds her own inner strength that she didn’t even realize that she possessed.
This one gave me all the feels, it was an emotional read with plenty of highs and lows. Per usual, my faith in humanity was restored by the end. It’s full of memorable characters and amazing life lessons but it’s not so heavy as to be depressing. Another solid read from one of my favorite authors!
Just After Midnight in three words: Tender, Uplifting and Moving.
This follows Faith, a woman who just left her husband and Sarah a young teenager whose mother just died. All of CRH’s books are perfect for animal lovers, but if you love horses this is a must read. The entire book centers on Sarah’s magical relationship with her horse Midnight and it highlights the special bond between human and animal. It was really beautiful and as Faith helps Sarah through her grief and pain she finds her own inner strength that she didn’t even realize that she possessed.
This one gave me all the feels, it was an emotional read with plenty of highs and lows. Per usual, my faith in humanity was restored by the end. It’s full of memorable characters and amazing life lessons but it’s not so heavy as to be depressing. Another solid read from one of my favorite authors!
Just After Midnight in three words: Tender, Uplifting and Moving.
January 15, 2021
Faith can no longer tolerate the behavior of her husband, so she decides to escape to her parents beach house in California. She needs space and time to sort out her future. This is where Faith befriends a fourteen-year-old girl called Sarah. Faith quickly learns that Sarah is at risk from her father after her mother's death.
Faith and Sarah both suffered a loss and it didn't take them long to bond quickly, although it was an unlikely friendship.
Just After Midnight is a beautifully written novel by Catherine Ryan Hyde about friendship, love and family. This is the first book I’ve read by this author and it won’t be my last. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and have no hesitation in recommending it to anyone who is looking for their next read.
With thanks to Netgalley for my digital copy to read and review.
Faith and Sarah both suffered a loss and it didn't take them long to bond quickly, although it was an unlikely friendship.
Just After Midnight is a beautifully written novel by Catherine Ryan Hyde about friendship, love and family. This is the first book I’ve read by this author and it won’t be my last. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and have no hesitation in recommending it to anyone who is looking for their next read.
With thanks to Netgalley for my digital copy to read and review.
July 26, 2025
An interesting story about Frances who has just left her very unpleasant, overbearing husband, and a girl she meets called Sarah who has just lost her mother and is about to have to give up her much loved horse, Midnight. It is a tear jerker from the start and does not let up right to the end.
It is a tale of friendship and courage and being true to yourself. The story pulls the reader right in at the beginning and there is no way you could not finish it - you just have to find out what happens. Maybe the characters are a teeny bit too good to be true (and that does include Midnight), but that is the way of these books and they certainly know how to pull at your heart strings.
It is a tale of friendship and courage and being true to yourself. The story pulls the reader right in at the beginning and there is no way you could not finish it - you just have to find out what happens. Maybe the characters are a teeny bit too good to be true (and that does include Midnight), but that is the way of these books and they certainly know how to pull at your heart strings.
April 8, 2020
Just after Midnight is a novel by American author, Catherine Ryan Hyde. The Bolinda audio version is performed by Kate Rudd (who speaks clearly, if sometimes a little stiffly). When Faith finds herself at a Dressage show with a volatile fourteen-year-old girl in her care, it serves several purposes: Faith has filed for divorce and is avoiding anywhere her husband might be looking for her; Sarah is grieving the sudden and recent loss of her mother. The girl’s father, from whom her grandmother, Constance, is trying to gain custody from, is unlikely to intuit their current location.
Sarah is grieving, too, the loss of her beloved black mare, Falkner’s Midnight Sun, sold by her father to John Wintermeier shortly after her mother’s death. Wintermeier intends to sell Midnight, and cautiously welcomes Sarah’s presence, as her close bond with the spirited mare makes her the ideal person to show the mare to prospective buyers. But for Sarah, it’s a double-edged sword: her proximity to Midnight ensures the mare’s best performance, but that may garner a sale, removing her access to the horse she loves more than anything in the world.
At the tail end of a summer of horse shows, Sarah reveals something to Faith about her mother’s death, something explosive. This, just as they learn that Midnight has been sold. And while Faith really has enough problems of her own, she is surprised to realise that she cares enough about this often-prickly teen to face a certain challenging situation she’s been avoiding.
Ryan Hyde is highly skilled at creating characters the reader will care about and be ready to invest in. There are no stereotypes or cardboard cut-outs here: everyone has some depth, even the less likeable ones. Sarah is a troubled teen for good reason, but still manages to make some mature and insightful observations; Faith shows more kindness and patience than might be expected of a stranger; but all exhibit very human flaws, for all their admirable qualities. Fans of this author’s work will not be disappointed: this is a brilliant read.
Sarah is grieving, too, the loss of her beloved black mare, Falkner’s Midnight Sun, sold by her father to John Wintermeier shortly after her mother’s death. Wintermeier intends to sell Midnight, and cautiously welcomes Sarah’s presence, as her close bond with the spirited mare makes her the ideal person to show the mare to prospective buyers. But for Sarah, it’s a double-edged sword: her proximity to Midnight ensures the mare’s best performance, but that may garner a sale, removing her access to the horse she loves more than anything in the world.
At the tail end of a summer of horse shows, Sarah reveals something to Faith about her mother’s death, something explosive. This, just as they learn that Midnight has been sold. And while Faith really has enough problems of her own, she is surprised to realise that she cares enough about this often-prickly teen to face a certain challenging situation she’s been avoiding.
Ryan Hyde is highly skilled at creating characters the reader will care about and be ready to invest in. There are no stereotypes or cardboard cut-outs here: everyone has some depth, even the less likeable ones. Sarah is a troubled teen for good reason, but still manages to make some mature and insightful observations; Faith shows more kindness and patience than might be expected of a stranger; but all exhibit very human flaws, for all their admirable qualities. Fans of this author’s work will not be disappointed: this is a brilliant read.
October 2, 2021
A huge disappointment from a favourite author. Seemed like a book more suitable for young adults. Hated the constant reference to “the girl” instead of using the girls name.
November 30, 2018
Rating: 5 stars
Okay, I’ll admit it. I’m a late-comer to author Catherine Ryan Hyde. I’ve only read three or four of her previous books, but they have all been high-quality reads. This book extends that track record with me. It features a friendship between Faith and Sarah. It’s a bit of a murder mystery; a coming-of-age story; a woman leaving an abusive relationship story; and glimpse into the business of horse dressage. Whew, from that description, you’d think it would be all over the place, but Ryan Hyde exercised her writing chops skillfully and produced a book that moved all these elements along seamlessly.
As the book opens, middle-aged Faith meets 14 year-old Sarah on the beach in front of the house that Faith is temporarily staying at. Sarah and her Grandmother are at their rented beach because Sarah’s mother recently died. Her Grandmother brought her to the beach to try to get over some of the heartbreak, and to spirit her away from her father. Faith has left her abusive husband with just the clothes on her back, and is trying to figure out what to do with the next part of her life.
Faith strikes up a conversation with Sarah which leads Faith to meet Sarah’s grandmother, Constance. Over the course of a few days, the bond between the three of the ladies grows as Faith learns that Sarah is also trying to process the sale of her beloved horse, Midnight, who was sold by her father just days after her mother died. The double blow has made Sarah retreat into a shell where she barely eats, or communicates with anyone. When Sarah’s father figures out that Sarah and her grandmother are at the beach, Constance implores Faith to take Sarah away for a few days to keep her away from her Dad. Faith reluctantly agrees, and the buddy-road-trip part of the story starts. Sarah convinces Faith to drive out to a Dressage show where her beloved horse, Midnight is being shown by her new owner. From there Faith and Sarah spend the sweltering summer together in various California stables and farms as they follow Midnight from one owner to another.
Okay, that’s enough of the plot. You can read most of the plot outline on the book blurb anyway. What this book does a wonderful job at is illustrating how much we can learn if we sometimes step out in faith, and trust that others are willing to extend themselves to help in a tough situation; that family isn’t solely based on blood; that animals can have profound impacts on our lives; that moving forward on a new path isn’t easy, but can be very empowering. Come to think of it, a lot of this book is about empowerment. Sarah found the inner-strength to stand up to her father. Faith felt empowered to stand up to her estranged husband, in order to help Sarah.
I was a bit horse mad as an adolescent girl, so I could easily relate to Sarah’s devotion to her horse. But I don’t think that you’d need to have any experiences with horses to still relate to Sarah and Midnight’s connection. I enjoyed learning more about what is involved in training a Dressage horse, and the Dressage show circuit. I cried a tear (yes, I’ll admit it) towards the end because the story was just so expertly told. It pulled me in, and made me care. Isn’t that just about the highest praise you can give a book? Catherine Ryan Hyde has produced another showstopper here.
I originally thought I'd give this book 4 stars, but it's really stayed with me over the last couple of weeks since I finished the book. I keep thinking about Faith and Sarah, and remember the emotional tugs their story produced, so I've changed the rating to 5 stars.
‘Thank-You’ to NetGalley; the publisher, Lake Union Press; and the author, Catherine Ryan Hyde; for providing a free e-ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Okay, I’ll admit it. I’m a late-comer to author Catherine Ryan Hyde. I’ve only read three or four of her previous books, but they have all been high-quality reads. This book extends that track record with me. It features a friendship between Faith and Sarah. It’s a bit of a murder mystery; a coming-of-age story; a woman leaving an abusive relationship story; and glimpse into the business of horse dressage. Whew, from that description, you’d think it would be all over the place, but Ryan Hyde exercised her writing chops skillfully and produced a book that moved all these elements along seamlessly.
As the book opens, middle-aged Faith meets 14 year-old Sarah on the beach in front of the house that Faith is temporarily staying at. Sarah and her Grandmother are at their rented beach because Sarah’s mother recently died. Her Grandmother brought her to the beach to try to get over some of the heartbreak, and to spirit her away from her father. Faith has left her abusive husband with just the clothes on her back, and is trying to figure out what to do with the next part of her life.
Faith strikes up a conversation with Sarah which leads Faith to meet Sarah’s grandmother, Constance. Over the course of a few days, the bond between the three of the ladies grows as Faith learns that Sarah is also trying to process the sale of her beloved horse, Midnight, who was sold by her father just days after her mother died. The double blow has made Sarah retreat into a shell where she barely eats, or communicates with anyone. When Sarah’s father figures out that Sarah and her grandmother are at the beach, Constance implores Faith to take Sarah away for a few days to keep her away from her Dad. Faith reluctantly agrees, and the buddy-road-trip part of the story starts. Sarah convinces Faith to drive out to a Dressage show where her beloved horse, Midnight is being shown by her new owner. From there Faith and Sarah spend the sweltering summer together in various California stables and farms as they follow Midnight from one owner to another.
Okay, that’s enough of the plot. You can read most of the plot outline on the book blurb anyway. What this book does a wonderful job at is illustrating how much we can learn if we sometimes step out in faith, and trust that others are willing to extend themselves to help in a tough situation; that family isn’t solely based on blood; that animals can have profound impacts on our lives; that moving forward on a new path isn’t easy, but can be very empowering. Come to think of it, a lot of this book is about empowerment. Sarah found the inner-strength to stand up to her father. Faith felt empowered to stand up to her estranged husband, in order to help Sarah.
I was a bit horse mad as an adolescent girl, so I could easily relate to Sarah’s devotion to her horse. But I don’t think that you’d need to have any experiences with horses to still relate to Sarah and Midnight’s connection. I enjoyed learning more about what is involved in training a Dressage horse, and the Dressage show circuit. I cried a tear (yes, I’ll admit it) towards the end because the story was just so expertly told. It pulled me in, and made me care. Isn’t that just about the highest praise you can give a book? Catherine Ryan Hyde has produced another showstopper here.
I originally thought I'd give this book 4 stars, but it's really stayed with me over the last couple of weeks since I finished the book. I keep thinking about Faith and Sarah, and remember the emotional tugs their story produced, so I've changed the rating to 5 stars.
‘Thank-You’ to NetGalley; the publisher, Lake Union Press; and the author, Catherine Ryan Hyde; for providing a free e-ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
November 3, 2018
Thank you Netgalley and Lake Union Publishing for the ARC.
They meet on the beach: Faith, in the proces of divorcing her mentally abusive husband, and Sarah, a 14 year old who accuses her father of the death of her mother. In the months that follow the woman track Sarah's horse, put on the market by her father to pay off his gambling debts. The horsewhispering is very soothing in the turmoil of events.
This book reads like a breeze, at the same time dealing with fear, safety and security, caring for others and coming out strong. Although the end is predictable from the start, Just After Midnight is a painfully beautiful story with a good balance between hope and despair.
They meet on the beach: Faith, in the proces of divorcing her mentally abusive husband, and Sarah, a 14 year old who accuses her father of the death of her mother. In the months that follow the woman track Sarah's horse, put on the market by her father to pay off his gambling debts. The horsewhispering is very soothing in the turmoil of events.
This book reads like a breeze, at the same time dealing with fear, safety and security, caring for others and coming out strong. Although the end is predictable from the start, Just After Midnight is a painfully beautiful story with a good balance between hope and despair.
December 9, 2018
Disappointing
Although her books are very formulaic and close to YA fiction , I have been a fan of Ms. Hyde and have read eight of her books. Perhaps it is because of the repetitive formula of each of her books that I have not really liked this one . Perhaps it is just that I have read so many of them . Or perhaps it is characteristics of this particular book as well as the difficult-to-believe aspects of her formula that makes it my least favorite . But I think, on top of those factors, there were features of this book that I found annoying . Ms. Hyde's formula is that an adult, often an older adult, takes a teenager or more than one teenager , for a period of time , often on a road trip . Both of the characters has issues that they need to work out and they manage to do it together . The difficulty in that formula is the fact that the adult is either nearly or totally a stranger to the child . She attempts to explain the fact that other adults closer to the child allow this stranger to take the child away for a period of time . Usually there is a somewhat compelling reason and the responsible adults in the child's life are unwilling or unsuitable to exercise much guidance and control . But in this case the adults in the child's life , or at least one adult , is responsible and capable . But nonetheless she allows her granddaughter to go off with someone they have just met. I just cannot accept that that would happen in the situation . And there was one feature of the writing style that totally annoyed me . Instead of calling the girl in the story by her name the author kept calling her "the girl" . Ugh! I should probably get this book a 2 rating but because I've been a fan of Ms. Hyde's I just couldn't do that .
Although her books are very formulaic and close to YA fiction , I have been a fan of Ms. Hyde and have read eight of her books. Perhaps it is because of the repetitive formula of each of her books that I have not really liked this one . Perhaps it is just that I have read so many of them . Or perhaps it is characteristics of this particular book as well as the difficult-to-believe aspects of her formula that makes it my least favorite . But I think, on top of those factors, there were features of this book that I found annoying . Ms. Hyde's formula is that an adult, often an older adult, takes a teenager or more than one teenager , for a period of time , often on a road trip . Both of the characters has issues that they need to work out and they manage to do it together . The difficulty in that formula is the fact that the adult is either nearly or totally a stranger to the child . She attempts to explain the fact that other adults closer to the child allow this stranger to take the child away for a period of time . Usually there is a somewhat compelling reason and the responsible adults in the child's life are unwilling or unsuitable to exercise much guidance and control . But in this case the adults in the child's life , or at least one adult , is responsible and capable . But nonetheless she allows her granddaughter to go off with someone they have just met. I just cannot accept that that would happen in the situation . And there was one feature of the writing style that totally annoyed me . Instead of calling the girl in the story by her name the author kept calling her "the girl" . Ugh! I should probably get this book a 2 rating but because I've been a fan of Ms. Hyde's I just couldn't do that .
October 11, 2025
4.5 stars.
I find this author is reliably great. It’s always so hard to put down her books, and they call to me often throughout the day. Thankfully shes also pretty prolific!
Sarah is 14 and has just lost her mother in quite difficult circumstances. Her father then decides to sell her horse, with whom she has an incredible bond. Needless to say, Sarah is heartbroken, and goes to be with her grandmother (her mom’s mother).
Faith has just left a difficult marriage and wants to go somewhere her husband won’t come looking for her.
The magic begins when these two cross paths where they both choose to run, which is the beach. They slowly begin to put their lives back together, by leaning on each other.
I find this author is reliably great. It’s always so hard to put down her books, and they call to me often throughout the day. Thankfully shes also pretty prolific!
Sarah is 14 and has just lost her mother in quite difficult circumstances. Her father then decides to sell her horse, with whom she has an incredible bond. Needless to say, Sarah is heartbroken, and goes to be with her grandmother (her mom’s mother).
Faith has just left a difficult marriage and wants to go somewhere her husband won’t come looking for her.
The magic begins when these two cross paths where they both choose to run, which is the beach. They slowly begin to put their lives back together, by leaning on each other.
September 25, 2023
I think very often in life we do something important for someone else for no better reason than that they need us to. And really, when you think about it . . . what more reason is needed?
Trigger Warning: Discussion of Suicide and Murder
Just After Midnight is about a woman(Faith) leaving a controlling husband, a teenage girl(Sarah) grappling with what she witnessed on the night of her mother's death, and a horse named Midnight. Once again, Catherine Ryan Hyde creates a contemporary drama involving multiple generations of people that kept me engaged and cheering for them all.
Having read a great deal of CRH's titles I am a bit mystified that no streaming service has decided that they should turn her stories into great films or limited series. But maybe that is already happening and I just don't know it yet.
Let me also assure all future readers, that nothing bad happens to Midnight.
Goodreads review published 25/09/23
Trigger Warning: Discussion of Suicide and Murder
Just After Midnight is about a woman(Faith) leaving a controlling husband, a teenage girl(Sarah) grappling with what she witnessed on the night of her mother's death, and a horse named Midnight. Once again, Catherine Ryan Hyde creates a contemporary drama involving multiple generations of people that kept me engaged and cheering for them all.
Having read a great deal of CRH's titles I am a bit mystified that no streaming service has decided that they should turn her stories into great films or limited series. But maybe that is already happening and I just don't know it yet.
Let me also assure all future readers, that nothing bad happens to Midnight.
Goodreads review published 25/09/23
January 28, 2019
This is a beautiful story about an unlikely friendship. Faith and Sarah are both dealing with significant trauma when they find each other, bonding through their struggles. Unfortunately, this was too horse topic heavy and I found my eyes glazing over often. For someone who knows nothing about horses, the jargon and technical wording was lost on me and detracted from the story. I almost gave in and put the book down at the beginning. I’m glad I pushed through to see this friendship develop but it was much too horse centric for me. Thank you @amazonpublishing for the advance reader in exchange for my honest review.
August 20, 2018
I received a free ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an unbiased review.
Just After Midnight will appeal to young adults who are transitioning to adult novels. The plot is quite uncomplicated with just hints of betrayal and fear. The major character, Faith, is leaving a bad marriage behind; although she states numerous times that her husband never hit her, there is enough of an underlying threat that she must keep her present location unknown to him. She wants out of her marriage to the point where she is willing to abandon any financial stake in their savings and home.
Teenage Sarah, meanwhile, has recently lost her mother to a supposed suicide and is in the throes of grief. These two are drawn together since neither feels completely safe nor completely free. Sarah not only grieves for her mother but also for the abrupt sale of her mare, Midnight. Her father sold the horse very soon after the death of Sarah's mom. His blindness to his daughter's needs is just one aspect of his selfish personality.
The unlikely relationship of a teen girl and a total stranger strains credulity. Constance, Sarah's grandmother who is fighting for custody, allows Faith and Sarah to leave for parts unknown since the women fear Sarah's father. (No way. Can we all just say "Amber Alert?") But, the possible legal entanglements never enter Faith's mind as she journeys with Sarah toward peace and strength, self-empowerment and acceptance.
Just After Midnight will appeal to young adults who are transitioning to adult novels. The plot is quite uncomplicated with just hints of betrayal and fear. The major character, Faith, is leaving a bad marriage behind; although she states numerous times that her husband never hit her, there is enough of an underlying threat that she must keep her present location unknown to him. She wants out of her marriage to the point where she is willing to abandon any financial stake in their savings and home.
Teenage Sarah, meanwhile, has recently lost her mother to a supposed suicide and is in the throes of grief. These two are drawn together since neither feels completely safe nor completely free. Sarah not only grieves for her mother but also for the abrupt sale of her mare, Midnight. Her father sold the horse very soon after the death of Sarah's mom. His blindness to his daughter's needs is just one aspect of his selfish personality.
The unlikely relationship of a teen girl and a total stranger strains credulity. Constance, Sarah's grandmother who is fighting for custody, allows Faith and Sarah to leave for parts unknown since the women fear Sarah's father. (No way. Can we all just say "Amber Alert?") But, the possible legal entanglements never enter Faith's mind as she journeys with Sarah toward peace and strength, self-empowerment and acceptance.
December 17, 2018
#FirstLine ~ Faith stood in line to buy two chicken soft tacos from the food truck serviced that weekend's dressage show.
Catherine Ryan Hyde is a genius in story telling. Her stories are a perfect blend of emotions, complex characters that you instantly love and a strong main plot with other beautiful side stories. She takes and blends it all together and creates magic. I loved how much I felt connected to this story and the characters within it. I felt everything right along with the characters because they were so perfectly developed. I adored this book and I highly recommend it!
Catherine Ryan Hyde is a genius in story telling. Her stories are a perfect blend of emotions, complex characters that you instantly love and a strong main plot with other beautiful side stories. She takes and blends it all together and creates magic. I loved how much I felt connected to this story and the characters within it. I felt everything right along with the characters because they were so perfectly developed. I adored this book and I highly recommend it!
October 11, 2020
A pretty good book, but a bit too long on the descriptions and too much about horses for me to really enjoy.
Felt like a YA book.
Felt like a YA book.
August 30, 2020
Enjoyable read, once you accept that dressage is actually a thing that consumes people's lives. Another older woman, younger lost teen, both looking for something that seems unlikely to happen, but of course as with all her books, good things come to those who persevere.
I have to say the structure of this novel, starting in the middle, going back to earlier, then coming to just before the story starts, was a bit disconcerting. But in the end, all is good, through thick and thin. Some likeable and not so likeable characters, but all part of the journey. Midnight is a horse, a dressage horse, who one cannot help but like, although we don't get to really know him.
Nice read anyway.
I have to say the structure of this novel, starting in the middle, going back to earlier, then coming to just before the story starts, was a bit disconcerting. But in the end, all is good, through thick and thin. Some likeable and not so likeable characters, but all part of the journey. Midnight is a horse, a dressage horse, who one cannot help but like, although we don't get to really know him.
Nice read anyway.
October 14, 2018
I received this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Get your tissues ready because you will do the ugly cry. Sarah and Faith are both suffering for two very different reasons. They find a way to save each other through some of the worse heartbreak. This is a great book and a powerful story.
November 13, 2019
Beautiful story. I love everything I’ve read by this author. This book is great; very emotional, but great. I love the plot and the characters.
October 27, 2019
No longer tolerating her husband’s borderline abuse, Faith escapes to her parents’ California beach house to plan her next move. She never dreamed her new chapter would involve befriend-ing Sarah, a fourteen-year-old on the run from her father and reeling from her mother’s sudden and suspicious death.
While Sarah’s grandmother scrambles to get custody, Faith is charged with spiriting the girl away on a journey that will restore her hope: Sarah implores Faith to take her to Falkner’s Midnight Sun, the prized black mare that her father sold out from under her. Sarah shares an unbreakable bond with Midnight and can’t bear to be apart from her. Throughout the sweltering summer, as they follow Midnight from show to show, Sarah comes to terms with what she witnessed on the terrible night her mother died.
But the journey is far from over. Faith must learn the value of trusting her instincts—and realize that the key to her future, and Sarah’s, is in her hands.
My Thoughts: As I began reading Just After Midnight, I was not quite sure if I would enjoy the journey. I was fascinated by what could happen for Faith as she moved on from a bad marriage. Her beach retreat intrigued me, and then I enjoyed the bond that started developing between Faith and the teenage girl Sarah.
The horse parts felt a little boring at first, but then I was able to focus on the relationship building between Faith and Sarah, and how helping the young girl move on in her life was a great gift for Faith, too. She now had a reason to go on, and by paying it forward for young Sarah she gave herself the gift of a new beginning. A book that I no longer could stop reading. 4.5 stars.
While Sarah’s grandmother scrambles to get custody, Faith is charged with spiriting the girl away on a journey that will restore her hope: Sarah implores Faith to take her to Falkner’s Midnight Sun, the prized black mare that her father sold out from under her. Sarah shares an unbreakable bond with Midnight and can’t bear to be apart from her. Throughout the sweltering summer, as they follow Midnight from show to show, Sarah comes to terms with what she witnessed on the terrible night her mother died.
But the journey is far from over. Faith must learn the value of trusting her instincts—and realize that the key to her future, and Sarah’s, is in her hands.
My Thoughts: As I began reading Just After Midnight, I was not quite sure if I would enjoy the journey. I was fascinated by what could happen for Faith as she moved on from a bad marriage. Her beach retreat intrigued me, and then I enjoyed the bond that started developing between Faith and the teenage girl Sarah.
The horse parts felt a little boring at first, but then I was able to focus on the relationship building between Faith and Sarah, and how helping the young girl move on in her life was a great gift for Faith, too. She now had a reason to go on, and by paying it forward for young Sarah she gave herself the gift of a new beginning. A book that I no longer could stop reading. 4.5 stars.
June 20, 2021
Having no particular knowledge of, or, interest in horses, I have had this novel on my Kindle for several years and am only now getting to it. I have to say, this novel will make a horse lover of everyone. Mostly though, this is a well written story of two people trying to get through some extremely difficult circumstances… together.
Set in a stiflingly hot California summer, the story follows Faith and Sarah on their interlude between trauma and starting over. Faith, who is in her late thirties and childless, takes Sarah into her life in a way that is equal parts motherly and friendly. Faith empathizes with Sarah in a way no one else can at just the right time in Sarah’s life to form a meaningful and long lasting connection.
As during part of the story the two main protagonists are living in an unused horse stall, I learned a lot about horses and the proprietorial lingo of ‘dressage‘.
Fresh starts, learning to trust your own instincts, self knowledge, having empathy for other people, and the kindness of strangers are the themes running throughout this story.
This is a novel that will be highly appreciated by readers who enjoy a good ‘overcoming adversity’ story as well as those who are interested in the equestrian world and animal lovers of every persuasion. Recommended!
Set in a stiflingly hot California summer, the story follows Faith and Sarah on their interlude between trauma and starting over. Faith, who is in her late thirties and childless, takes Sarah into her life in a way that is equal parts motherly and friendly. Faith empathizes with Sarah in a way no one else can at just the right time in Sarah’s life to form a meaningful and long lasting connection.
As during part of the story the two main protagonists are living in an unused horse stall, I learned a lot about horses and the proprietorial lingo of ‘dressage‘.
Fresh starts, learning to trust your own instincts, self knowledge, having empathy for other people, and the kindness of strangers are the themes running throughout this story.
This is a novel that will be highly appreciated by readers who enjoy a good ‘overcoming adversity’ story as well as those who are interested in the equestrian world and animal lovers of every persuasion. Recommended!
November 22, 2018
4.5 well deserved stars!!
Catherine Ryan Hyde is a very prolific author. I've only read a couple of her titles. But I want it known that I have thoroughly enjoyed all of them - Just After Midnight not being an exception.
We start with one of our main characters, Faith, looking out the window at her dad's beach house, which she arrived to the day before after leaving her husband. She goes out on the beach and talks to this young girl for a few minutes before the girl runs off. She notices what house she runs to. A while later she walks to the beach and meets Constance, who turns out to be the young girl (Sarah)'s grandmother. A few days later Faith is taking Sarah with her to a self-defense class, and realizes they're being followed. She confonts the follower after she drops Sarah off and sees him again at the grocery store. He plays it off, and he tries to worm his way in - but of course, he's not what he seems. Suddenly, Faith and Sarah are on the run, bound together by fate, secrets, and a horse named, you guessed it, Midnight.
I really like books where I feel like I'm learning with the characters, and this book definitely qualified - through the book Faith and I learned a lot about the care and training of horses. We met a lot of interesting people and toured a lot of the West coast. And, of course, I was very pleased with the ending. This book gets 4.5 stars only because it got a little bogged down in technical details in some spots (but I'm rounding up to 5 because the writing was superb). I can't wait to read another CRH book!
Catherine Ryan Hyde is a very prolific author. I've only read a couple of her titles. But I want it known that I have thoroughly enjoyed all of them - Just After Midnight not being an exception.
We start with one of our main characters, Faith, looking out the window at her dad's beach house, which she arrived to the day before after leaving her husband. She goes out on the beach and talks to this young girl for a few minutes before the girl runs off. She notices what house she runs to. A while later she walks to the beach and meets Constance, who turns out to be the young girl (Sarah)'s grandmother. A few days later Faith is taking Sarah with her to a self-defense class, and realizes they're being followed. She confonts the follower after she drops Sarah off and sees him again at the grocery store. He plays it off, and he tries to worm his way in - but of course, he's not what he seems. Suddenly, Faith and Sarah are on the run, bound together by fate, secrets, and a horse named, you guessed it, Midnight.
I really like books where I feel like I'm learning with the characters, and this book definitely qualified - through the book Faith and I learned a lot about the care and training of horses. We met a lot of interesting people and toured a lot of the West coast. And, of course, I was very pleased with the ending. This book gets 4.5 stars only because it got a little bogged down in technical details in some spots (but I'm rounding up to 5 because the writing was superb). I can't wait to read another CRH book!
February 28, 2020
Great book and story as everything I've read by Catherine Ryan Just after midnight is not the exception.
A story full of emotions and a rollercoaster of not knowing what will happen. after leaving her husband Faith has decided to start a new life after all the fear she has felt for a lot of years. she embarks on a journey not knowing where she is heading or what life has for her but soon she sill meet people that will change her life forever and seething so different for the first time.
Faith didn't know she was about to become a "foster mom" or something similar, she has a lot of love to give and share but her previous life made her a little scared or aware of being more careful when giving your heart away.
Sarah is a teenager that feels a lot without her mom and the only beautiful creature that made her feel alive.. her horse midnight. she feels like nothing is worth fighting anymore, she feels alone and so out of place, but life and a beautiful stranger will help her regain everything she lost especially her hope and faith.
This was a good story, I felt so much for Faith and Sarah, they both really suffer so much and it was about time life gave them a second chance a new life and a new happiness to look forward too.
A story full of emotions and a rollercoaster of not knowing what will happen. after leaving her husband Faith has decided to start a new life after all the fear she has felt for a lot of years. she embarks on a journey not knowing where she is heading or what life has for her but soon she sill meet people that will change her life forever and seething so different for the first time.
Faith didn't know she was about to become a "foster mom" or something similar, she has a lot of love to give and share but her previous life made her a little scared or aware of being more careful when giving your heart away.
Sarah is a teenager that feels a lot without her mom and the only beautiful creature that made her feel alive.. her horse midnight. she feels like nothing is worth fighting anymore, she feels alone and so out of place, but life and a beautiful stranger will help her regain everything she lost especially her hope and faith.
This was a good story, I felt so much for Faith and Sarah, they both really suffer so much and it was about time life gave them a second chance a new life and a new happiness to look forward too.
December 7, 2018
I always enjoy books by Catherine Ryan Hyde. She knows how to weave a story that will capture your heart and keep you turning pages. This one is no different. It’s a very touching story of a girl and her horse. How they were separated and how it affected them both. The world of horses is a beautiful one and it was good to read a story that told so much about showing horses. Told so much about the bond between the horse and the owner.
Sarah lost her mother to suspicious circumstances and she is pretty sure she knows exactly what happened the night her mother died. Also right after losing her mom, her dad sold her horse Midnight. She was so devastated that she could not eat or do much of anything. She was staying with her grandmother at the beach when she meets Faith. Faith was there hiding from her abusive soon to be ex husband. She is more than just mentally abusive. He has touched her so that in my opinion makes him physically abusive also. Together Sarah and Faith will go on a trip of self examination. Getting to know themselves and each other. Friends, one older and one a child of 14.
There are many obstacles in their path for a while but they overcome so much. They become stronger then either things possible. Especially Faith. She is able to confront her ex and demand what is rightfully hers. Faith still has a lot to learn and trust if one of the big things for her. She’s lost faith in almost everything and everyone. But with her grandmother and Faith she can be ok again.
The bond of friendship is strong. Strong between a woman who is helping and caring for a young girl who feels she has lost everything. Together they will have many ups and downs but in the end they will always have each other.
This is such a good book. You will learn a lot about horses and friendships.
Thank you to NetGalley, Lake Union and Catherine Ryan Hyde for a copy of this in exchange for my honest opinion. This is my opinion of a wonderful story.
A 5 star book that anyone that believes in bonds, love and friendships should read. Not a love story, just a story of love that truly knows no bounds...
Sarah lost her mother to suspicious circumstances and she is pretty sure she knows exactly what happened the night her mother died. Also right after losing her mom, her dad sold her horse Midnight. She was so devastated that she could not eat or do much of anything. She was staying with her grandmother at the beach when she meets Faith. Faith was there hiding from her abusive soon to be ex husband. She is more than just mentally abusive. He has touched her so that in my opinion makes him physically abusive also. Together Sarah and Faith will go on a trip of self examination. Getting to know themselves and each other. Friends, one older and one a child of 14.
There are many obstacles in their path for a while but they overcome so much. They become stronger then either things possible. Especially Faith. She is able to confront her ex and demand what is rightfully hers. Faith still has a lot to learn and trust if one of the big things for her. She’s lost faith in almost everything and everyone. But with her grandmother and Faith she can be ok again.
The bond of friendship is strong. Strong between a woman who is helping and caring for a young girl who feels she has lost everything. Together they will have many ups and downs but in the end they will always have each other.
This is such a good book. You will learn a lot about horses and friendships.
Thank you to NetGalley, Lake Union and Catherine Ryan Hyde for a copy of this in exchange for my honest opinion. This is my opinion of a wonderful story.
A 5 star book that anyone that believes in bonds, love and friendships should read. Not a love story, just a story of love that truly knows no bounds...
January 1, 2019
I received an advanced readers digital copy of this book from Lake Union Publishing through NetGalley in exchange for my honest review and unbiased opinion. A positive review was not required.
I love books by Catherine Ryan Hyde, they never fail to move and entertain me. Just After Midnight was no exception. The writing was stellar, the plot grabbed me from the first page. I loved the characters. true
The story left me with all the feel goods and shows true friendship can come in many forms. I fully recommend reading this one, but with tissue in hand.
I love books by Catherine Ryan Hyde, they never fail to move and entertain me. Just After Midnight was no exception. The writing was stellar, the plot grabbed me from the first page. I loved the characters. true
The story left me with all the feel goods and shows true friendship can come in many forms. I fully recommend reading this one, but with tissue in hand.
October 27, 2018
Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC in exchange for a review.
This book was a little better than ok to me. I figured out the end way before I got to it. Not a book I would choose to read a second time. I did not really have a hard time reading it but was ready to get done with it the whole time because I know I have better books waiting for me.
This book was a little better than ok to me. I figured out the end way before I got to it. Not a book I would choose to read a second time. I did not really have a hard time reading it but was ready to get done with it the whole time because I know I have better books waiting for me.
December 10, 2019
I think any animal lover would adore this book, or anyone who enjoys reading emotional stories. I'm glad I read this.
May 28, 2022
What a tear jerker! Loved it!
March 18, 2020
A good read.
December 23, 2018
I’m a sucker for a good horse story, and I’ve read several books by this author (some good, some not so good). This was just OK - 2.5 stars. It was sweet, but unrealistic. It’s really nice that a complete stranger would put her life on hold to help a sad teenager. But would a grandmother really let her 14 year old granddaughter spend the summer with a total stranger? Good enough that I was able to finish reading it, but nothing notable to make me recommend it to others.
October 2, 2018
I am a fan of Catherine Ryan Hyde, having read 8 of her books. They are all different, but usually have a theme of a young person who is helped by someone more mature. This book carries forward that theme very well.
Set in the horse culture of Southern California, this book focuses on the relationship between a young teenaged girl and her horse. A child prodigy in dressage, Sarah loses her horse Midnight when the mare is sold by her father. Although a potential champion, Midnight will not perform for anyone else. Faith, a total stranger, takes Sarah under her wing and leads her through a crisis in her life. The book deals with loss at several levels: the loss of the child’s mother and her horse, the loss of Faith ‘s marriage and her loss of faith in men. The book is a reminder of how women are mistreated by men in our culture.
I read the book in one day, which is usually an indication that I will like a book. This is not my favorite book by CRH, but it ranks in the top 3.
Thanks to Lakewood Publishers and NetGalley for providing a prepublication copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Set in the horse culture of Southern California, this book focuses on the relationship between a young teenaged girl and her horse. A child prodigy in dressage, Sarah loses her horse Midnight when the mare is sold by her father. Although a potential champion, Midnight will not perform for anyone else. Faith, a total stranger, takes Sarah under her wing and leads her through a crisis in her life. The book deals with loss at several levels: the loss of the child’s mother and her horse, the loss of Faith ‘s marriage and her loss of faith in men. The book is a reminder of how women are mistreated by men in our culture.
I read the book in one day, which is usually an indication that I will like a book. This is not my favorite book by CRH, but it ranks in the top 3.
Thanks to Lakewood Publishers and NetGalley for providing a prepublication copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
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