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4.5*

I absolutely loved Jenni Keer’s previous book, No 23 Burlington Square. At The Stroke of Midnight is another historical fiction story. Set in 1923. 19 year old Pearl Glenham lives in Suffolk with her rather strict widowed father Raymond and doesn’t have much of a life � she is basically at his beck and call and is treated more like a servant than a daughter. When an invite from a mysterious Mr Badgerwood (which is really more of a summons than a friendly invitation) arrives for Raymond to attend Highcliffe House her father is insistent they must travel. Pearl however has misgivings about the whole weekend � and she is quite right to.

If the previous book had a ‘Sliding Doors� feel then this one has ‘Groundhog Day� vibes. There is clearly a mystery and much secrecy surrounding Highcliffe House and its previous inhabitants and unusual events around a mercury clock (a clepsydra) lead Pearl to living the same day, every day. With characters that are not all as they seem and who mostly seem to be hiding something, Pearl must turn investigator to find out how to stop this never ending spiral that she finds herself caught in.

There are not many likeable characters here which range from the lecherous to the arrogant, the exception being Pearl and Ellery (her Highcliffe accomplice � there was great chemistry between these two) but Pearl shows an unexpected maturity in her quest to solve a long standing mystery and also attempts to break free from the restricted life she has with her father showing a playful side that is ready for new adventures. She is rather obsessed with clocks and timepieces, each one being set to 4 minutes past 10 � the reason why will become clear in the story. Her lack of a social life makes her awkward with company however her love of swimming and the freedom it gives her is like a balm for her soul. I loved the vivid descriptions of the Dorset coast setting with the forbidding Highcliffe House being a character in its own right.

At the Stroke of Midnight has elements of murder and mystery with a touch of magical realism. Pearl was undoubtedly the star of the story and her transition from a socially awkward young girl was marvellous to see. I enjoyed this book very much, I did initially wonder if the repetition would bother me but this was managed so well and I was totally invested in the story throughout. Jenni Keer is a superb writer and I have no hesitation in recommending this one.