This is a story that moves from darkness to hope—a tale of resilience. Through a legacy of death, ghosts, prohibition, post-WWII struggles, family drama, and mental health challenges, the author weaves a narrative of determination and the power to overcome the past. The long-hidden tale of Marian Arnold is finally brought to light in this novel, crafted with both skill and heart.

The highlight of the novel is its atmospheric setting—a creepy house with a gruesome past that feels almost alive. Both in the past and present timelines, a cast of vivid characters leaps off the pages to share their intertwined stories. Jamie Jo Wright proves once again that she is a master storyteller, expertly balancing dark, spine-chilling moments with glimmers of hope rooted in faith. Her handling of mental health themes is both sensitive and impressive, adding depth and realism to the narrative.

The dual timeline structure works well, offering variety. When Marian’s story occasionally lags—she can feel fragile and unaware of her circumstances—the switch to Remy and Elton brings renewed energy and brightness to the narrative. In the end, Marian’s journey of self-discovery, supported by friends and her faith in the Lord, inspires hope. She chooses to rise above what others believe about her, forging her path forward.

Jamie Jo Wright’s impressive body of work, including over 18 novels with glowing reviews, reflects her ability to captivate readers. While the pacing of this book takes significant time to pick up, once it does, it becomes hard to put down. Wright’s talent for suspense is undeniable, and she handles even grim or unsettling topics with care and sophistication.

This book delivers two profound messages. First, it reminds us that no matter who we are or the challenges we face, we are deeply wanted—especially by God, who created us for a purpose. Second, it underscores the empowering truth that we can break free from the traumas of the past and build a brighter future for ourselves and future generations.

If you’re easily frightened, consider reading this book in the daylight! But for those who enjoy a story that delves into the shadows to uncover the light, this novel is a must-read.

Review of an Advance Reading Copy Provided by the Publisher

Content Analysis:

Profanity/Language: None

Violence/Gore: A man lost his leg in the war; mention of a serial killer and the floor stained with a woman’s blood; a man is found hung to death, descriptive but not gory or bloody; a woman is found dead; multiple mentions of 2 people being killed in a fire; including a mother; dead animal bones are found in a drawer and a vehicle, it’s a death threat; somebody suggests a woman would be better off dead because nobody cared about her; a woman is found dead with scratches and strangulation marks; a man tries to kill a woman; a woman who was found dead in a pool of blood; arson that kills 3 people; a woman remembers that as a child, if she didn’t obey, she would be slapped or yelled at.

Sex/Nudity: A very passionate kiss between a man and a woman; a single woman is pregnant.

Mature Subject Matter:

Ghosts that talk, war, amputated leg, ethnic discrimination, suicide, melanoma, death of parents, foster care system, orphan, a stalker, prohibition, PTSD, nightmares, mental health issues, reincarnation (souls into butterflies), hearing voices from the dead, arson, mental health disorders, child out of wedlock.

Alcohol/Drug Use:

Several people drink alcohol after prohibition; a woman remembers how her mother was passed out and couldn’t escape a fire.