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The Midnight of Eights Paperback – October 28, 2024
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Nelan Michaels docks at Plymouth after sailing around the world aboard the Golden Hind. He seeks only to master his mystical powers – the mark of the salamander, that mysterious spirit of fire – and reunite with his beloved Eleanor.
After delivering a message to Francis Walsingham, he’s recruited into the service of the Queen’s spymaster, where his astral abilities help him to predict and thwart future plots against the realm.
But in 1588, the Spanish Armada threatens England’s shores.
So how could the fledgling navy of a small, misty isle on the edge of mainland Europe repulse the greatest fleet in the world?
Was the Queen right when she claimed it was divine intervention, saying, ‘He blew with His winds, and they were scattered!’?
- Print length288 pages
- LanguageEnglish
- PublisherThe Book Guild
- Publication dateOctober 28, 2024
- Dimensions8.5 x 5.43 x 0.79 inches
- ISBN-101835740332
- ISBN-13978-1835740330
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Product details
- Publisher : The Book Guild
- Publication date : October 28, 2024
- Language : English
- Print length : 288 pages
- ISBN-10 : 1835740332
- ISBN-13 : 978-1835740330
- Item Weight : 13 ounces
- Dimensions : 8.5 x 5.43 x 0.79 inches
- Best Sellers Rank: #179,972 in Historical Fiction (Books)
- Customer Reviews:
About the author

JUSTIN NEWLAND’s novels represent an innovative blend of genres from historical adventure to supernatural thriller and magical realism. His stories explore the themes of war and religion, and speculate on the human’s spiritual place in the universe.
Undeterred by the award of a Doctorate in Mathematics from Imperial College, London, he conceived his debut novel, The Genes of Isis (Matador, 2018), an epic fantasy set under Ancient Egyptian skies.
The historical thriller, The Old Dragon’s Head (Matador, 2018), is set in Ming Dynasty China in the shadows of the Great Wall.
The Coronation (Matador, 2019) was another historical adventure and speculates on the genesis of the most important event in the modern world – the Industrial Revolution.
The Abdication (Matador, 2021) is a mystery thriller in which a young woman confronts her faith in a higher purpose and what it means to abdicate that faith.
The Mark of the Salamander (Book Guild, 2023) is the first in a two-book series, The Island of Angels. Set in the Elizabethan era, it’s an epic tale of England’s coming of age.
His work in progress is the second in the series, The Midnight of Eights, the charting of the uncanny coincidences that led to the repulse of the Spanish Armada.
Author, speaker and broadcaster, Justin appears on LitFest panels, gives talks to historical associations and libraries and enjoys giving radio interviews and making podcasts.
Born three days before the end of 1953, he lives with his partner in plain sight of the Mendip Hills in Somerset, England.
Customer reviews
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- Alis PageReviewed in the United Kingdom on January 24, 2025
5.0 out of 5 stars A captivating and beautiful historical novel
The Midnight of Eights by Justin Newland is a historical novel set in the late 1500s and the second book in The Island of Angels series. First off, I have to mention the book cover — it’s absolutely stunning! The design is so atmospheric, with rich images and colours that really pop. It’s emotive and completely drew me in.
On to the book from the very beginning, it felt like I was reconnecting with old friends. Familiar names and places sprang back to life, which was a treat since I’ve read the first book, The Mark of the Salamander. That said, you don’t need to have read it to enjoy this one, but I do think it adds a little extra depth if you have.
I absolutely adore Newland’s writing style. It flows so naturally, even though the story is set in such a different time period. The little excerpts of astrology woven into the narrative add a fascinating layer of authenticity and bring the 1500s to life in a unique way. It’s clear he’s done his research, and it’s such a joy to read.
One thing I really appreciated was the structure. The chapters are fairly short, which is perfect for someone like me who likes to read in little bursts but hates stopping midway through a chapter. And can we talk about the chapter titles? They’re brilliant. Each one gives a little hint of what’s to come and raises the profile of the chapter itself. It’s a small touch, but it made the experience even more enjoyable.
As a fan of historical fiction, this book was right up my street. The story, the characters, and the way it’s all tied to its time period make it a fascinating and entertaining read. Newland has a real talent for bringing history to life.
In conclusion, The Midnight of Eights is a captivating and beautifully written novel. It’s perfect for anyone who loves historical fiction, especially if you’re intrigued by astrology and the Renaissance era. Whether you’re new to the series or already a fan, this book is sure to delight. I’m already looking forward to what Justin Newland has in store for us next!