An atmospheric and mysterious regency tale with an intriguing premise. We have an interesting cast of characters in a sanitarium setting. Amelia, our leading lady, is one such character. She has a strange affliction and the doctor who has been treating her puts her in his will with a curious condition. As the tale unfolds, there is murder and more plot twists.

**Thank you to the publisher and Net Galley in exchange of an honest review. **

Young widow Amelia has found a home at Moorington Cross, a mesmeric hospital, where the owner has cared for her like a daughter. Then Mr. Cluett gives her news that will change her life: he is terminally ill, but he's going to leave Moorington Cross to her in his will, on the condition that she marry one of the two gentlemen he has picked out within thirty days of his death. She'll be provided for, but only under those extremely specific circumstances.

After meeting the two men, Amelia is confused as to the reason Mr. Cluett would have chosen either one of them for them for her to marry. But she never has the chance to ask him, and an investigation commences to discover which of Moorington Cross's residents murdered him. The clock is also ticking on a decision that Amelia is loathe to make.

This novel combines Gothic mystery with many layers. There's Amelia's pressing decision and the courtship that must commence even with grief and uncertainty swirling in the air. There's the helpful solicitor that Amelia is intensely attracted to, but he's not one of her candidates. There are questions about the hospital staff and cottages in the woods and Mr. Cluett's deceased family. I couldn't put the book down and thoroughly enjoyed it. It's my favorite Abigail Wilson novel to date!

If you enjoy multi-layered historical mysteries, this is one I highly recommend.

I received my copy of the book from NetGalley. All thoughts in this review are my own.

Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with a free copy in exchange for an honest review.

I absolutely adore regency romances and I was thrilled that Twilight at Mooring Cross reached all of my expectations. The mystery element kept me turning the pages and when I thought I had everything figured out, the author turned it around. For me, that is the sign of an incredible mystery.

The cast of characters were fleshed out to a distinguishable extent. I felt like I knew the characters each time they came into the scene. The author did a fantastic job of creating such distinguishing personalities of each of the characters.

The only issues I had with Twilight at Mooring Cross were the excessive plot twists in the last two chapters and the predictable romance. If the plot twists had have been more spread out towards the end - even over the last four or five chapters - it wouldn’t have been so much for the reader to try to understand in their own minds when solving the mystery.

In Twilight at Moorington Cross, Amelia Pembroke is a patient at Cluett’s Mesmeric Hospital where she’s being treated for a sleep disorder. Amelia has been at Dr. Cluett’s hospital for nearly two years, and although she has seen no improvement in her condition, she and Dr. Cluett have become good friends. Amelia is shocked, though, when she finds out that Dr. Cluett has changed his will to make her his main beneficiary, but upon his death, she will only inherit if she marries one of two men he has designated. She’s even more shocked when Dr. Cluett turns up dead. With the help of Dr. Cluett’s solicitor, Ewan Hawkins, Amelia is determined to find out how he was killed even as she must try to decide which man man to marry. But what if one of them is a murderer? And what if she has already fallen in love with someone else?

Twilight at Moorington Cross kept me guessing. There are plenty of plot twists and unexpected turns. I really liked the chemistry between Amelia and Ewan. It had a nice slow build, but it was so emotional and so strong. And I loved how the author tied the characters into the story of The Masquerade at Middlecrest Abbey and gave a clearer picture of Lord Torrington’s first wife. I also think just the setting, a mesmeric hospital, is an interesting historical backdrop for this story. I wasn’t familiar with mesmerism and mesmeric hospitals, so I had to look that up and do a little side reading. I always enjoy when authors include little pieces of history that have been largely overlooked, so I can learn something new and interesting. Overall, this author continues to bring well-written, well-thought out mysterious romances, characters with depth and heart, and plot twists that will keep you guessing. I look forward to whatever she has coming next.

*I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

What readers need to understand about Abigail Wilson books is that they are gothic and sometimes dark, there usually is a mystery and many many layers to it. If there is any romance, it is sweet and mild, perhaps kissing involved but that's it.
I have read this author many times and I've either completely fallen into the story and loved it or couldn't get into it and was meh. This book left me in between oddly. I liked the mystery and felt it was done very well with many twists and turns.
But some parts didn't make much sense to me, especially why the doctor would leave this bizarre will request to a patient. And then why Amelia felt compelled to go along with the stipulations when she clearly felt for someone else.
There isn't anything much with character development most times in Wilson's books, it is simply the story here and now. I can understand that but in this case, it needed backstory, it needed character development otherwise, it came off a bit flat and not much in the way of likable characters because they are so shallow.

I would encourage readers to read this with an open mind, taking it for what it is, not what they want it to be. It is a slow read and you do have to pay attention in most cases because there are so many layers to it. But the mystery story here is what makes the read worth it in my opinion.
I received an advanced copy in exchange for my review.

This story had way more twist than I was expecting and I am okay with that. While I did not necessarily love either of the suitors or their way of courting, it definitely lent itself to the story. The romance was sweet and built on core principles and communication which is always nice to see. But those twist and turns in the end. While I did see some of them coming, I did not see them working out how they did. I enjoyed the twist and turns and the romance of this story.

This has mystery to the max. The storyline kept me guessing all the way until the end. I was completely shocked to find out who the murderer was and how the character fooled everyone. I would have loved to know from Mr. Hawkins point of view though.
3.5 stars.

"I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own."

Twilight at Moorington Cross is an enthralling Regency mystery, set apart by its intriguing premise and endearing romance. The unique premise of this book easily pulled me in - while the mystery piqued my curiosity and kept me guessing, the forbidden love aspect to the romance left me wondering how the heroine and hero would get their HEA and just rooting for them to get there.

I absolutely adored the romance in this book! Ewan Hawkins was a kind, charming, protective, and intelligent hero. His moments of vulnerability with Amelia really just stole my heart and made me swoon. Amelia was a great heroine too - empathetic, insightful, and capable. I loved that they complemented each other very well - both in their personalities and shared experiences. I also really enjoyed the banter between the two, and the growth of their friendship into a sweet and tender love.

I have to admit that the mesmerism aspect of this novel wasn't my favorite and I wish it wasn't included altogether. However, while it's essential to the plot, it didn't go too far into an off-putting place for me.

Overall, I really enjoyed Twilight at Moorington Cross.

*I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.

An English Gothic Regency Romance revolves around Cluett's Messmeric Hospital in the Cluett family home of Moorington Cross. Mr.Cluett has made out his last will and testament leaving his patient, Mrs. Amelia Pembroke, as his beneficiary. In order to inherit, she must marry one of the two gentlemen listed in the will within thirty days of his death. Otherwise the bulk of the money will go to another hospital in France. But the murder of Mr. Cluett raises more question than answers when Amelia and Mr. Cluett's lawyer, Ewen Hawkins, think it's murder. What they do not have is proof. A dangerous closed off east wing of the house, secret passages and a missing piece of paper. Shadows in the night, murder and attempted murder. Who is Henry? And a complex ending that will leave your mind reeling!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.

Oooh, this was a fun read. It's been a while since I read a good mystery, and this absolutely fit the bill!

I was expecting a faith element given the publisher; that wasn't really present here, but it was still a really good read, and clean content-wise. I really knew nothing about the time period or mesmerism, and learned a lot about both!

Well done (and now that I know Hawkins shows up in another book by the author, I'll be sure to check it out! Loved his character!).

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Atmospheric setting, characters with secrets, a dark shadowy deed at the heart, and a heroine who slowly begins to feel her own acute danger as she seeks to find the truth and her own road to happiness. An irresistible combo and just what I was looking for in this second outing with author Abigail Wilson’s Regency era gothic-styled romantic suspense that had me shivering with anticipation.

The Widowed Amelia Pembroke Introduced
“It was entirely possible that I spent more time lying on the floor of Cluett’s Mesmeric Hospital than standing upon it.” Loc 38
For two years, she has lived in relative peace under the treatment of kind Mr. Cluett and his taciturn nurse with two other live-in patients. They have become more than fellow sufferers, but a family of sorts.
Then, one day, Mr. Cluett shares the contents of his new will and everything changes for her. Mr. Cluett knows her fears about marriage and yet he puts a proviso in his will that if she is to inherit Moorington Cross and his wealth then she must wed one of two men Cluett has chosen as eligible and she must do it within thirty days of his death.
Enter Mr. Hawkins the solicitor who represents her deceased husband’s firm and is now her legal advisor. He irritates and attracts her at the same time. Is he truly on her side?
“I gave myself a mental shake. I’d survived one intolerable guardian after another and then a violent husband. I could certainly keep this far-too-handsome Mr. Hawkins at arm’s length. Besides, he had no intentions where I was concerned. There was no mistaking that. I was merely a problem that needed solving.” Loc 659

Death Comes Calling
After a poor first meeting with her would-be suitors, Amelia is woken by fellow patient, Mrs. Fitzroy’s screams to discover that her doctor and kind friend is dead and it might not have been natural. Death is not a stranger to Moorington Cross as she soon learns when it is whispered about the house of the Cluett family curse and there is no sense of safety within its walls.
Amelia is told to trust no one, but she has to because she needs to discover the truth even while agonizing over a cold man who maintains a distance and makes it clear that her wellbeing is not his top interest or a smarmy one who has a bad reputation in London society. She goes with her instinct about the one man she cannot choose and secretly wishes were an option.
“I couldn’t help but think how easily I had put my faith in Mr. Hawkins, even after Mrs. Fitzroy cautioned me in the same manner. Yet for some reason, doing so felt right. My muscles relaxed. There was something about him, a well-crafted believability, like worn leather –pliable yet strong. He was nothing like my late husband, who had wormed his way into my life on a life.” Loc 715

A Complex and Twisting Plot
Amelia’s focus is divided between partnering Mr. Hawkins to investigate Mr. Cluett’s murder and the mysteries at Moorington Cross and figure out which of her suitors would be the lesser of two evils, so to speak. Progress is slow on both fronts, but steadily, they learn little bits here and there that seem unrelated at first. I had several ‘why’ questions and wondered if they would ever get answered, but then, in the end, the pieces finally fit together. They learn they must be getting closer when Amelia barely avoids her own murder. The end comes in a heart-in-the throat climax and multiple shocking reveals. Even the denouement provides a startling surprise.

Added Layers to the Characters
As I read this one, I was struck by several unique features and particularly in regard to her main characters. The author gave the heroine a sleeping disorder disability and made her an orphan and subject to the Regency’s version of the foster care system- past from unwilling and uninterested guardian to the next as well as always fearing she would be locked away in an institution like Bedlam for her issue. In the end her abusive husband, put her in the private home. With none of these does she have any control and it must have been terrifying in the extreme so that no wonder she found a private treatment hospital converted from a family estate to be a shelter and home.
Mr. Hawkins could match her with the disability of a deformed hand, abandoned by his mother to a London workhouse and known as an illegitimate baby. He has some inkling of what it is to be ostracized, but also dependent on others while forced to take care of himself when no one else is there. The turning point in the story came in an intimate moment between the pair.
“Show you?” His hand stilled as his face blanched white. “I…I won’t if you’d prefer not to see it. I’m just basking in a rather glorious revelation. You, Mrs. Pembroke, may be the first person I’ve ever met who understands me.” A smile crossed his face. “I find myself intrigued and strangely empowered by the discovery. I only thought that since I’ve seen one of your [sleeping] spells, it is only fair you see an intimate piece of me as well.” Loc 2330
Concluding Remarks
In summation, Twilight at Moorington Cross mixed Regency manners with Gothic Suspense rather well and boldly addressed social and cultural elements of the period. My second outing with Abigail Wilson’s books was a triumph and I think those who enjoy romantic historical mysteries will find this one mesmerizing.

Review soon to be published on my Blog. May I request that the publisher please approve all future requests on the correct account?

The year is 1819 and Abigail Wilson is a patient at Cluett's Mesmeric Hospital. The young widow has suffered from a mysterious illness that causes sleeping spells since she was a child, and was sent to the hospital when her abusive late husband learned of her illness. Having been starved for attention and friendship, she quickly befriends the other patients and even Mr. Cluett. However, she's shocked when Mr. Cluett reveals that his will has changed and everything he owns will now belong to her upon his death. There's just one catch: she has to marry one of the men he has chosen for her within 30 days of his death. And when Mr. Cluett is suddenly found dead in his bedchamber, Abigail has to choose. But first? She'll need the help of Cluett's solicitor, Mr. Hawkins if anyone is to discover what really happened to the doctor.

From stories that don't quite add up to the odd man living in the woods to events that nearly cost Abigail her life, Twilight at Moorington Cross was the kind to keep the reader up long past their bedtime . Despite my suspicions, I was completely shocked when I learned who was behind all the strange and devious happenings. I also thoroughly enjoyed both Abigail and Ewan's characters, and loved seeing Abigail learn her worth. However, I really struggled with the mesmerism aspect. I realize that it was a common practice back then, but would have preferred to not see it in a Christian novel. To be fair to the author, this is something I should have noticed before agreeing to read an early copy of this book. Aside from that, I found the plot well rounded and exciting, and the characters strong and believable.

*I received a complimentary copy of Twilight at Moorington Cross through the publisher and NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own. My positive review is not required.

"Heavens, something about Mr. Hawkins was so maddeningly charming when he knew he’d got the upper hand—his rueful smile, his winsome movements—a tug on his jacket here, an arm propped just so."

While [book:In the Shadow of Croft Towers is still my favorite book by Abigail Wilson, I enjoyed Twilight at Moorington Cross more than her previous two books.

Thanks to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson FICTION for the ARC.

Not sure this one was as good as some of Wilson's earlier novels. The premise was interesting--in order to inherit Mr. Cluett's property, the heroine (Amelia) must choose between two suitors (who are chosen for her). The solicitor (Ewan) who helps with the will is present when the information about the choice is given to Amelia. Then Mr. Cluett dies and Amelia must make a choice within 30 days (instead of having time to get to know the two men. Amelia feels a responsibility towards her fellow patients in the mesmeric "hospital" where she has resided for the past couple of years--they have all become friends. I kept reading to see how Wilson would resolve Amelia's dilemma, but I really didn't care that much what she decided. The story was pretty slow moving until the last few pages when everything happened at once. There were some twists at the end, but I had actually figured out the murderer--just not the motive. All in all just 3 stars, I think.

The plot was compelling with some elements that made the story feel unique, but also pleasantly predictable at the same time. The murder mystery kept the story moving and I do so enjoy when I think I have it figured out but I am wrong at the end. I loved Amelia and Ewan’s love story and how their unfortunate pasts made them well-fit for each other. The ending was very happily-ever-after and a bit too convenient but sometimes that can be nice to live in a world where that happens, if only for a little bit.

A very minor complaint, but by the end there were a lot of descriptions of objects and people being illuminated “by the moonlight” (enough so that I noticed) and that could have used a little more editing.

Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for the eArc in exchange for an honest review.

Regency Era novels are one of my favorite ways to escape reality. This murder mystery by Abigail Wilson really hit the spot. It had great characters, a swoony romance, and who-done-it mystery that kept me guessing until the end. If you love mystery and romance you will enjoy Twilight at Moorington Cross. Highly recommended!

I received a copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher for the purpose of review.

Twilight at Moorington Cross is mystery and romance in a gothic historical setting. The very odd circumstances for Amelia Pembroke make for a compelling tale. She is the heir to Cluett’s Mesmeric Hospital, but will only inherit if she marries one of two equally undesirable men. Amelia also has a mysterious illness that no one understands.

Ewan Hawkins is the solicitor who is present when Dr. Cluett, dies. The ensuing story is a combination of a questionable death, a conditional inheritance, Amelia, Ewan, the possible husbands and the hospital residents who are also Amelia’s friends.

Amelia and Ewan spend time together in order to determine Amelia’s best option. But that just brings them closer together as Amelia learns she is not keen on either possible husband. In the seemingly impossible situation, they also discover a strange resident in one of the hospital’s out buildings and all the while, they suspect that Dr. Cluett’s death was not natural.

The setting of a big house that has closed off wings and creepy secret passageways give the story a gothic feel, as does the odd resident. Eerie is another word to describe the feeling invoked by the mystery. This book has atmosphere to spare.

Twilight at Moorington Cross is lightly connected to the Abigail Wilson’s Masquerade at Middlecrest Abbey. This book features a heroine who wants to maintain some control over her life in a time when women did not have many such rights. An engaging hero who feels she deserves that control means Amelia will have a happy ending. I am always pleased to read one of Abigail Wilson’s books.

Through Netgalley, the publisher provided a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

Amelia Pembroke hasn’t had an easy life, in fact it’s been one bad thing after the next. Losing her parents, being shuffled around to various guardians and then her late husband who was not the man he appeared to be. She’s only found a sense of home and family at Cluett’s Mesmeric Hospital. A place her husband had her commuted to for her sleeping disorder. Years later she’s a widow and still in residence at Cluett’s. Thinking fondly of her and understanding her situation Mr. Cluett informs her that upon his death she will inherit most of his estate the catch being that she has to marry one of the two men he’s chosen within 30 days of his death. Never mind that upon meeting these men she isn’t quite impressed with them and they are only mildly interested in her. What could Mr. Cluett have been thinking? Naturally because life is strange the man she ends up falling for is Mr. Hawkins the solicitor hired to handle the changes to Mr Cluett’s will. The other problem of course being that only hours after the announcement of the will stipulations Mr. Cluett is found dead. And it appears to be murder. But who would want to kill him? Why? And is there any truth to the alleged curse on his family?

With Mr. Hawkin’s help Amelia works to uncover the mystery of what happened and who is responsible. It’s a good read, typical historical romance mystery situation. I remember Mr. Hawkins from a previous book so I was more familiar with his background that Amelia had been in the beginning. I will pretty much read anything written by the author it did not disappoint. Looking forward to reading more of her work.

Twilight at Moorington Cross has many elements of a classic whodunnit with a slow burn romance that dominates portions of the story. The mystery was enjoyable and unpredictable. The romance had a slow build and was beautifully written. I enjoyed the slightly eerie atmosphere of Moorington Cross, which contributed to the overall suspense of the story. As mentioned earlier, the perpetrator will not jump out at you for most of the novel. However, I found that so many unpredictable components were thrown in right at the end, which felt as though they came out of nowhere. While I appreciated the unforeseen elements themselves, I would have preferred a buildup that began earlier in the plot. Despite this, Twilight at Moorington Cross remains an interesting mystery with a beautiful romance to boot.

I received a complimentary copy of theirs book. Opinions expressed are entirely my own.