A Fast-paced Historical Novel!

Midnight Blue is a plot-driven historical novel written by a popular Dutch writer, Simone van der Vlugt. The writer is new to English-speaking readers and is well-established (in Dutch) in several genres. In this novel, Ms. van der Vlugt makes good use of her experience writing crime novels - the pace is fast and the story engaging.

I particularly enjoyed watching the main character, Catrin, grow from an impulsive girl with a vague dream into a confident and independent woman. She is practical at every turn, yet she eventually risks her own health and safety to help two young strangers. Despite Catrin being haunted by some of her choices, she follows her intuition throughout. Aided by luck and a keen ability to compromise, she ultimately makes a few brave and unconventional decisions that lead to her happy ending.

Ms. Vlugt’s extensive knowledge of 17th century Holland comes through in every detail, from the arduous requirements of traveling from one area of the country to another, to the food staples, the daily routines, and the incredible events of the time and place. I much enjoyed her descriptions of the harbor in Amsterdam and of the various modes of water transportation. My compliments to the author on her extensive research. Every essential detail was spot on.

Overall, I think Midnight Blue is a great read and an apt introduction to Holland’s Golden Age. Well done!