Note: Thank you to NetGalley, Storm Publishing, and author Kate Hewitt for the advanced reader copy of this book. What follows is my unbiased review of the book.

I’ve read several of Kate Hewitt’s books, which mostly seem to be historical fiction. In the case of The Midnight Hour, it’s the second book in a series about a future that doesn’t seem all that impossible at the current time. While I didn’t know all of the details from the first book, I do think I would have enjoyed reading it, and it would have made some things in The Midnight Hour easier to understand.

The Midnight Hour picks up immediately after some horrible events that ended the first book. Alex and her husband, Daniel, have survived a nuclear holocaust with their family by staying at a remote cabin in Ontario that her parents owned. Roving gangs found them there, and after a fight, they went running for their lives. Worried about exposure to radiation, they are trying to make it to a rumored military base near Buffalo. While traveling, they come across two armed men in a monster truck blocking the road. They kill the men and take the truck.

While camping in a secluded section of a provincial park, they meet up with another family who is headed towards a colony they heard of at an abandoned military base north of where they are. With few other options, they decide to try it out as well.

Both Alex and Daniel are trying to resolve the trauma they feel due to all they have been through. The marriage had been fractured due to Daniel’s lies, but at this point, they need each other to survive. Alex feels guilty for killing the two men as they discover they likely weren’t part of the roving gangs but more likely trying to help people. It’s a brutal world out there, and she did what she thought she needed to do. Her oldest son, Sam, seems disgusted that his mother killed a man in cold blood. Their relationship seems fractured as well.

The book also flashes back to Daniel’s trip to bring their son back from college, which lasted several months. There are events from then that he is still trying to cope with as well. He hasn’t told anyone what happened and will take the secret to the grave.

Living in a post-nuclear world has been romanticized in some ways, thanks to films like Mad Max. Some people have grown to believe that it would be “fun” to lead that sort of existence. They see themselves as heroes just waiting for a disaster to happen to elevate them to greatness. Unfortunately, the devil is in the details. The Midnight Hour helps show what surviving in this post-apocalyptic world is really like. It’s not all fun and games, nor is it easy just to survive. Doing the right thing can get you killed, but if everyone stopped doing it, humans would eventually die off, just killing each other in the aftermath.

I had a hard time liking Alex. Maybe that’s how the author wanted it. She has good reasons to struggle in her relationship with Daniel, and maybe some of that is what’s leaving her restless in the world. The North Bay Survival and Resettlement Center, where they end up, is safe after everything they’ve dealt with. Are there problems there? Of course, but there’s also a sense of security. There were times the family was close to starving, and here they are provided with shelter, safety, food, and a society. Nothing is holding them there if they want to leave, and despite all of this, Alex is questioning whether they should stay there for the winter. The winter. In Canada. After a nuclear holocaust. I wanted to smack her. This is a time when just surviving is an accomplishment, and yet she seems to be dreaming of “finding herself” and “being a part of something bigger.” Sometimes, when you’re a parent and responsible for others, you have to suck it up and this would be one of those times.

Will there be a third book? It seems like there could be, although some things seem to be resolved at the end of The Midnight Hour. This post-nuclear world has many possibilities, and I feel like Hewitt created a very interesting setting that would allow society to redevelop. I would have preferred to have read the first book in the series, The Last Stars in the Sky, before reading this, so if that’s an option and you’re interested, I suggest you take it. The series definitely seems worth the time to read it.

Kate Hewitt's book "The Midnight Hour" is a worthy continuation of the "Lost Lake" series, and picks up where the first part left off. If you haven't read "The Last Stars In The Sky", it's definitely worth starting with it to get the full story of the Walker family.

Once again, this book takes you on an emotionally charged, yet captivating journey through a world dominated by devastation and uncertainty. All the challenges of life after a nuclear disaster – food shortages, the threat of radiation and lack of trust – are presented with realism and raw honesty. Alex Walker and his family struggle to stay alive as they face new responsibilities and difficult choices.

One of the novel's greatest strengths is that it does not idealise survival: the characters do not always make the right decisions, and this makes the story all the more believable. Kate Hewitt shows not only the depths of loss and pain, but also the power of human endurance. The family's fate is complex, painful and uplifting at the same time – every decision they make carries weight, and that's what really gripped me.

This book is not only a post-apocalyptic story, but also a moving human drama. For a long time after reading it, I kept asking myself: what would happen if all this became reality? "The Midnight Hour" is not only an excellent sequel, but a story that makes you think deeply.

The Midnight Hour was fast paced, well written and gripping. Family relationships were tested and explored. Survival skills were everyone’s main focus and concern. It was hard to trust anyone that was not familiar or known. Choices had to be made and they didn’t always result in the right decision. The Midnight Hour explored the themes of family, survival, hope, fear, losses and uncertainty. Once again, Kate Hewitt left us with another cliff hanger. I can’t wait to read the next book in the Lost Lake series to discover what will happen next. Kate Hewitt once again showed off her talent as a masterful storyteller. I continue to be amazed at the skill and versatility with which Kate Hewitt writes. She has a book for whatever mood I find myself in at that moment.

Book 2 in the lost lake series and this book is brilliant, grips you from the first page hard to put down once you start.

In the second part of this apocalyptic story, Alex, Daniel and their children are fleeing an attack from backwood terrorists. Alex has set fire to the cottage where they have been staying since the nuclear holocaust, to prevent the terrorists from taking it. During the attack, Kerry and Justine, two of their group were killed and Alex now has responsibility for Phoebe, Justine’s four-year-old daughter.
The story in part two of the Lost Lake trilogy is split between past and present: the group’s current journey, surviving and coping with day to day dangers and challenges as they search for a friendly settlement to join, and Daniel’s experiences from his time away in the previous book. He was absent for seven months before he eventually returned with their 19 yr old son Sam, who had been back in the US at college. His experiences have been harrowing to say the least.
In the present, the group discover that safety sometimes brings with it as much danger as travelling the road independently. There is also a family tragedy, which comes as a consequence of this new world they now inhabit. By the time The Midnight Hour has come to its conclusion, the group has made a decision on what happens next, opening the door to the third and final part of the series.
This has been an exceptional series. The author has created a very realistic world following a global nuclear war. It’s scary and totally believable, with every veneer of civilized behaviour stripped away, although there are still pockets of humanity and kindness to be found.
I look forward to reading the third and final part of the trilogy which will be published in early 2026.

I would like to thank Storm Publishing, the author and Netgalley for an ARC of The Midnight Hours in exchange for an honest review.

The Midnight Hour is a gripping and emotional rollercoaster This sequel pulls you back into the chaotic, post-apocalyptic world, and the story of survival and family hits hard. As a mother trying to protect her children in an unforgiving world, I couldn't help but be drawn into the narrator’s struggle, their desperation, and the constant uncertainty of what tomorrow holds.

The emotional depth is powerful—especially when it comes to the narrator’s reflections on the loss, the broken promises, and the overwhelming weight of trying to create a sense of safety for her daughters. The writing beautifully captures the haunting quiet of a destroyed world, and the characters feel real in their pain, fear, and love for each other.

What I appreciated most was how the story didn’t shy away from the hard truths of survival, and it left me questioning how far I'd go to protect the ones I love. The pacing is steady, though sometimes the tone can be a bit heavy, which made it harder to get through in one sitting. Still, the emotional payoff is worth it, and the book leaves you craving more. This is a must-read for anyone who enjoys raw, character-driven post-apocalyptic fiction with real stakes.

I loved the first book. This was slightly harder going at points but nonetheless gripping. The post apocalyptic setting is more developed this time and is reminiscent of similar themes.

I have to admit that with all the things that are going on in the world right now, I wasn't sure I was in the right frame of mind to read this book and it is the reason it has taken me several weeks to finish it. However, I enjoyed the first book so I braced myself and started reading this one! It didn't disappoint.

Alex, Daniel and their family are on the run again and they have no idea where they are going or what to do next. This book explores what happens once the initial events of an apocalypse are over and done with - what's next?

There are plenty of challenges ahead and some of them cannot be imagined, when they are making their escape from the cottage.

I would recommend reading the books in order, just so you get the full picture, although I think this book could be read as a standalone, too, at a pinch.

The constant sense of dread which hung over the first book wasn't as present in this one, which was just as well, really!

I give it 4.5 stars.

Thank you to NetGalley and Storm Publishing.

I stumbled upon the first book in this series this past summer and absolutely loved it! So I was quite looking forward to the sequel. And there is a lot to this book that I really enjoyed - even loved. But there were a few parts I felt like I just wanted a bit more.

I loved that The Midnight Hour picks up right after the first book, so you are immediately brought back to the intense journey to find safety. I think what drew me Alex, Daniel and their family is the need to survive by any and all means. How they learn to survive with new skills and the mentally challenging decisions they have to make. I appreciated learning more about Daniel and Sam's journey to find their family. I also loved the last part of the book, with the cottages. While many emotional and tough moments, I found it to have somewhat full circle moments.

I think the parts that I wanted more from was the NBSRC - it was set up to be a place that challenges your thinking on survival, resilience and society as a whole. And it started off great, but I kept waiting for something a bit more sinister. haha - maybe that's more a reflection on me. So while the start to that storyline was intriguing, it ended just a little flat for me. I really enjoyed the time at the cottages but again, could have read a little more on how the group aligned and worked together.

Overall though, I enjoyed reading this. It's a good follow up to the amazing first book. And I'm looking forward to reading the 3rd installment in this series. Thank you so much for letting me read this early (well in my case a bit late) But as I share on my platform, my Mom life took over!

I absolutely loved the first book in this series and this sequel did not disappoint. Such a fascinating subject and it really does make you think if something so tragic as a nuclear attack were ti happen how would life be. I really really hope there will be a 3rd book. Fantastic writing by a very clever author.

bookscoffeebrews Book Review: THE MIDNGHT HOUR
(Lost Lake2)
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Author: Kate Hewitt @katehewitt1
Publisher: Storm Publishing @stormbooks_co
Thankyou @netgalley for my ARC.

The Midnight Hour, the sequel to The Last Stars in the
Sky, offers a gripping narrative that delves into the
resilience of humanity in the face of catastrophic
change. Picking up where the first book left off, the
story explores a world where fear, greed, and violence
have become pervasive, yet the human spirit remains
unbroken. Alex and Daniel Walker's determination to
safeguard their loved ones - Sam, Mattie, Ruby,
Phoebe, and Kyle - serves as a powerful testament to
the bonds of family and community. As they navigate
this treacherous new world, they must confront the
uncertainties of radiation poisoning, trust issues, and
moral dilemmas, all while holding onto hope and the
promise of a better future. Kate Hewitt's masterful
storytelling weaves a tale that is both
thought-provoking and emotionally resonant, leaving
readers eagerly anticipating the next installment in the
Lost Lake series. With its uplifting themes of resilience,
family, and hope, The Midnight Hour is a must-read
for anyone looking for a story that will inspire and
empower.

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I read 1/4 of this book and felt it wasn’t for me

It was well written

Thank you to Netgalley and Storm Publishing

A dystopian post nuclear adventure that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

I went ahead and read the first book which I really enjoyed. In this second instalment I found myself yearning for the narrative to return to them as “pioneers” however, I can see why we took this journey and deep dive into the post nuclear politics of sequels intend to be written.

I enjoyed the coming of age aspects seen with Maddie and Kyle.

One thing that I found frustrating was the repeated asking of “what do we do now?” Each time this line came up I thought of Reece Witherspoon’s frustration with the line and agree that action or dialogue towards a solutions would have been better in some instances.

I look forward to what comes next for Alex, we were left on a good cliff hanger and I have a good feeling for book 3.

I really like the premise of this story. I’m not sure if reading book one first would have been better for me to follow and understand. It was an easy read!

Kate Hewitt is a MUST READ author for me! But now I know to have the tissues ready for her books. This is the second book in the “Lost Lake Series". This book follows Alex and her family after the nuclear holocaust. She is trying her best to hold it together for her children. Family survival and love is the center of this book.
I can’t wait for the next book in the series! Many thanks to the author, Bookouture and NetGalley for a complimentary copy of the book. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.

The Midnight Hour was the sequel to The Last Stars in the Sky by Kate Hewitt. It picked up right where the first one ended. The world was no longer as it once had been. People had turned greedy, scared and sometimes quite violent. Fear lurked among those that had survived. What would they find or not find? Were they in danger of radiation poisoning? No one knew for sure. Alex and Daniel Walker knew one thing. They needed to find a safe place for Sam, Mattie and Ruby, their biological children and for Phoebe and Kyle who were their responsibilities now as well. What would this new world be like for them? Could they survive? All of their resolves would be tested.

The Midnight Hour was fast paced, well written and gripping. Family relationships were tested and explored. Survival skills were everyone’s main focus and concern. It was hard to trust anyone that was not familiar or known. Choices had to be made and they didn’t always result in the right decision. The Midnight Hour explored the themes of family, survival, hope, fear, losses and uncertainty. Once again, Kate Hewitt left us with another cliff hanger. I can’t wait to read the next book in the Lost Lake series to discover what will happen next. Kate Hewitt once again showed off her talent as a masterful storyteller. I highly recommend this book.

Thank you to Storm Publishing for allowing me to read The Midnight Hour (Lost Lake #2) by Kate Hewitt through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Thank you to Netgalley and Storm Publishing for an early copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I loved this book and I read it in one day. I had to take breaks because I did cry in parts. I would recommend this book.

The Midnight Hour by Kate Hewitt is the 2nd book in this beautifully written Lost Lake series. This series has just took my breath away from the beginning till the end, and Wow! what a cliff hanging ending it had!!! Nooooooo.

Kate has written it from her heart and I loved reading this book. It's full of warmth but, be warned you will need tissues and lots of them. The Midnight Hour was one of the best books I’ve read this year so far. I couldn’t put this one down I did not want it to end...But, then I find this with all Kate's books.

Highly recommend and don't forget your tissues.

Big thank you to Thank you to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for my ARC.

When I started reading the first book in the series: (The Last Star in the Sky), I thought this isn't my typical read. I am so glad I stuck with it though. Although not in my typical genre, I loved it and wished it would have gone on linger. Well my wish was granted when The Midnight Hour came along.

This one is just as gripping, disturbing, frightening and heartfelt as the first. I love that it picked up right where the first left off. I do not know if there will be another book in the series. I am satisfied with how this one ended, but would welcome another book as well. I just want to know more about this family and their lives after a nuclear disaster.

Thanks to netgalley and Storm Publishing for the arc.

This is book 2 in the lost lake series by Kate Hewitt. This book follows Alex and her family and starts 7 months after a nuclear holocaust that changed their lives and the world. Family survival and love is paramount to this novel.
Can’t wait for the next one in the series …