Book Review: The Midnight Feast by Lucy Foley

A Chilling Retreat with a Few Flaws: A Review of Lucy Foley's The Midnight Feast

Rating: ★★★☆☆ 

Lucy Foley's The Midnight Feast is a chilling tale set in a secluded manor, promising a suspenseful and atmospheric read. While the novel certainly delivers on atmosphere, its multiple perspectives and fragmented narrative can sometimes hinder the overall flow.

The story unfolds through the eyes of four distinct characters: Francesca, the enigmatic owner; Owen, her architect husband; Bella, a mysterious guest; and Eddie, a local hired hand. While this approach offers a multifaceted view of the events, it can also feel disjointed, as the narrative frequently shifts between timelines and perspectives.

Foley's writing style is elegant and evocative, painting a vivid picture of the isolated setting and its eerie undertones. The author skillfully weaves together elements of psychological thriller and gothic horror, creating a sense of unease and suspense. However, the fragmented structure can sometimes disrupt the momentum of the story, making it difficult to fully engage with the characters and their motivations.

One of the novel's strengths lies in its exploration of themes of guilt, revenge, and the dark secrets that can lurk beneath a seemingly perfect facade. Foley delves into the psychological complexities of her characters, revealing their vulnerabilities and hidden desires. However, the multiple perspectives can sometimes make it challenging to fully empathize with any one character, as the narrative frequently shifts focus.

The setting of the secluded manor, with its isolated location and eerie atmosphere, adds to the overall suspense of the novel. Foley's descriptions of the manor's decaying grandeur and the surrounding wilderness create a sense of foreboding and dread. However, the fragmented structure can sometimes dilute the impact of the setting, I was constantly being pulled between different characters and timelines.

While the novel's ending is satisfying, it may not be as shocking or unexpected as some readers might hope. The pacing of the story can also be uneven, with some sections feeling slow and deliberate, while others move too quickly.

Despite these criticisms, The Midnight Feast is a well-crafted novel that will appeal to fans of atmospheric thrillers. While it may not be Foley's strongest work, it is still a worthwhile read for those seeking a chilling and suspenseful experience.

If you are interested in the book:

** Link: https://amzn.to/4hYnhhW **