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Night Falls on Predicament Avenue
In 1910, Effie James is living a dream for two. Her younger sister is harboring a secret that has left timid Effie determined to fulfill her daring sister's grand plan of seeking out adventure in their small Iowa town. When a British gentleman arrives, disrupting their peace with efforts to find the wife many claim lived her final days at the now abandoned house at 322 Predicament Avenue, Effie is thrust into intrigue she couldn't have prepared for. But what she finds inside will forever link her to the scandal staining the house's walls and to a woman whose secrets promise a curse.
A century later, Norah Richman is living out her late-twin's dream of running their great aunt's bed-and-breakfast on Predicament Avenue--a place Norah believes nothing good can come out of after her sister's abduction and murder thirteen years ago. Her first guest is a crime historian and podcaster, and Norah resolves to stay far away from the charming and enigmatic man--until another guest is found dead. As they dig deeper, something sinister unfurls that will reveal an ominous unknown far greater than the possibility of death itself.
A century later, Norah Richman is living out her late-twin's dream of running their great aunt's bed-and-breakfast on Predicament Avenue--a place Norah believes nothing good can come out of after her sister's abduction and murder thirteen years ago. Her first guest is a crime historian and podcaster, and Norah resolves to stay far away from the charming and enigmatic man--until another guest is found dead. As they dig deeper, something sinister unfurls that will reveal an ominous unknown far greater than the possibility of death itself.
368 pages, Paperback
First published April 9, 2024
About the author
Jaime Jo Wright
18 books1,813 followersDaphne du Maurier and Christy Award-Winning author, Jaime Jo Wright resides in the hills of Wisconsin writing suspenseful, mysteries stained with history's secrets. Jaime lives in dreamland, exists in reality, and invites you to join her adventures at jaimewrightbooks.com!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 174 reviews
April 9, 2024
Happy New Release!
Night Falls on Predicament Avenue is a Masterfully- Powerful Read... creepy and ghostly mystery is filled with suspense and gothic elements. I love every word of it. Jaime Jo Wright's attention to detail is evident in every scene, exquisitely written with Captivating --vivid descriptions and a tangible atmosphere.
“I can hear the darkness.”
This captivating Christian Historical-Contemporary Fiction story unfolds in two timelines and includes some spooky scenes. The setting is my favorite part of the book, and both heroines from each period struggle with fear and grief. The story's theme is overcoming fear, learning to live, and moving on.
“We’re afraid of death in part because we’re afraid of the grief that follows. Death is momentary, but grief is what’s left behind"
1910 Effie's sister witnesses a horrible crime that turns the town upside down.
Present-Norah is fulfilling her late twin's dream by managing their great aunt's bed-and-breakfast on Predicament Avenue, a place Norah believes nothing good can come out of after her sister's abduction and murder thirteen years ago.
Two murders, separated by two centuries, occurred in the same house in a small town. and how everything is connected. Wright skillfully brings to light the fears and how they can shape our path if we allow them to... The story illustrates also how giving in to fear can corrupt our minds, leading to destruction. “Fear steals our joy and is the agony of those with no hope. It will not define us. Fear is the enemy we will defeat.”
A gripping tale of mystery, Faith, a bit of romance, and lots of suspenseful scenes that will keep you intrigued until the end. My last thoughts: I loved The House on Foster Hill which remains my favorite book. Night Falls on Predicament Avenue had me guessing up to the reveal...This book it's hard to compare it to anything else...If you're a fan of mystery-crime podcasts, I highly recommend this one.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Night Falls on Predicament Avenue is a Masterfully- Powerful Read... creepy and ghostly mystery is filled with suspense and gothic elements. I love every word of it. Jaime Jo Wright's attention to detail is evident in every scene, exquisitely written with Captivating --vivid descriptions and a tangible atmosphere.
“I can hear the darkness.”
This captivating Christian Historical-Contemporary Fiction story unfolds in two timelines and includes some spooky scenes. The setting is my favorite part of the book, and both heroines from each period struggle with fear and grief. The story's theme is overcoming fear, learning to live, and moving on.
“We’re afraid of death in part because we’re afraid of the grief that follows. Death is momentary, but grief is what’s left behind"
1910 Effie's sister witnesses a horrible crime that turns the town upside down.
Present-Norah is fulfilling her late twin's dream by managing their great aunt's bed-and-breakfast on Predicament Avenue, a place Norah believes nothing good can come out of after her sister's abduction and murder thirteen years ago.
Two murders, separated by two centuries, occurred in the same house in a small town. and how everything is connected. Wright skillfully brings to light the fears and how they can shape our path if we allow them to... The story illustrates also how giving in to fear can corrupt our minds, leading to destruction. “Fear steals our joy and is the agony of those with no hope. It will not define us. Fear is the enemy we will defeat.”
A gripping tale of mystery, Faith, a bit of romance, and lots of suspenseful scenes that will keep you intrigued until the end. My last thoughts: I loved The House on Foster Hill which remains my favorite book. Night Falls on Predicament Avenue had me guessing up to the reveal...This book it's hard to compare it to anything else...If you're a fan of mystery-crime podcasts, I highly recommend this one.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
January 15, 2024
4.5/5
I finished this book in just two sittings (and would have devoured it in one had it not been too late to keep reading, haha!). So good. The author has a way of keeping me on the edge of my seat and having me turn page after page until there are none left to turn. Few books (or authors, for that matter) invest me as much as Wright does, and that's why she's one of my top favorite auto-buy authors.
While this book wasn't one of my "top" favorites of hers, it was still such a good read (top two reads by her are "The Lost Boys of Barlowe Theater" and "On the Cliffs of Foxglove Manor"). Each timeline presented compelling reads, and I was so invested in the story and curious to see how everything unfolded and connected. Two murders, one home, one small town, two centuries apart. Connection? You'll have to read and find out ;)
The anxiety rep in the story was one of my favorite aspects of it. As someone who has struggled with anxiety for years now, it always means a lot to me to see characters struggling in a relatable way but also slowly overcoming those struggles one step at a time.
As always, Jaime Jo Wright developed a compelling story full of faith, page-turner scenes, and real characters. And that teaser at the end of the book for her fall 2024 release?! I. Can't. Wait.
Night Falls on Predicament Avenue is a gripping, powerful read, and I’d absolutely recommend it! Thank you to NetGalley and the author for an eARC of Night Falls on Predicament Avenue. A positive review was not required, only my honest opinion. All thoughts are expressly my own.
I finished this book in just two sittings (and would have devoured it in one had it not been too late to keep reading, haha!). So good. The author has a way of keeping me on the edge of my seat and having me turn page after page until there are none left to turn. Few books (or authors, for that matter) invest me as much as Wright does, and that's why she's one of my top favorite auto-buy authors.
While this book wasn't one of my "top" favorites of hers, it was still such a good read (top two reads by her are "The Lost Boys of Barlowe Theater" and "On the Cliffs of Foxglove Manor"). Each timeline presented compelling reads, and I was so invested in the story and curious to see how everything unfolded and connected. Two murders, one home, one small town, two centuries apart. Connection? You'll have to read and find out ;)
The anxiety rep in the story was one of my favorite aspects of it. As someone who has struggled with anxiety for years now, it always means a lot to me to see characters struggling in a relatable way but also slowly overcoming those struggles one step at a time.
As always, Jaime Jo Wright developed a compelling story full of faith, page-turner scenes, and real characters. And that teaser at the end of the book for her fall 2024 release?! I. Can't. Wait.
Night Falls on Predicament Avenue is a gripping, powerful read, and I’d absolutely recommend it! Thank you to NetGalley and the author for an eARC of Night Falls on Predicament Avenue. A positive review was not required, only my honest opinion. All thoughts are expressly my own.
April 9, 2024
“Death had been a guest here at Predicament Avenue for decades, and it was clear that Death wasn’t ready to check out quite yet.”
Wright seems to have the perfect recipe for a gothic-inspired mystery! She’s mixed together 1 address (322 Predicament Avenue) with 1 small town (Shepherd, Iowa). Then set it 2 centuries apart (1901 and present day) and sprinkled in 3 murders (Isabelle Addington, Naomi Richman, and Walter Miller) and dusted it lightly with a dash of ‘faith’.
Everyone in Shepherd agrees that 322 Predicament Avenue is haunted. It’s the “strangest and most mysterious place in the entire small Iowa town.” To two girls, Eupehmia ‘Effie’ and Polly James, the old farmhouse holds allure. The decision to follow through on a bold sister’s dare changes everything for the James siblings. Haunted houses and dares go hand in hand, don’t they?!
In the present day, Norah Richman has inherited her Aunt Eleanor’s farmhouse on Predicament Avenue. Struggling with anxiety and deep in grief with her twin sister’s death, Norah is uncertain what to do with her inheritance. Upholding her sister’s dream to open it as a Bed & Breakfast, Norah welcomes her first guest, Sebastian Blaine who arrives expecting a ghostly experience. He’s a true crime podcaster and digs into the house’s history on ‘Cold, Dead, But Never Buried’. When a second guest dies, Norah fears the house’s past is catching up with its present.
I thought this was a perfect balance of suspense, mystery and faith. I appreciated the focus on the sisterly bond, anxiety, grief and loneliness, as well as the exploration on how we face our fear.
“We’re afraid of death in part because we’re afraid of the grief that follows. Death is momentary, but grief is what’s left behind.”
I was gifted this copy by Bethany House and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
Wright seems to have the perfect recipe for a gothic-inspired mystery! She’s mixed together 1 address (322 Predicament Avenue) with 1 small town (Shepherd, Iowa). Then set it 2 centuries apart (1901 and present day) and sprinkled in 3 murders (Isabelle Addington, Naomi Richman, and Walter Miller) and dusted it lightly with a dash of ‘faith’.
Everyone in Shepherd agrees that 322 Predicament Avenue is haunted. It’s the “strangest and most mysterious place in the entire small Iowa town.” To two girls, Eupehmia ‘Effie’ and Polly James, the old farmhouse holds allure. The decision to follow through on a bold sister’s dare changes everything for the James siblings. Haunted houses and dares go hand in hand, don’t they?!
In the present day, Norah Richman has inherited her Aunt Eleanor’s farmhouse on Predicament Avenue. Struggling with anxiety and deep in grief with her twin sister’s death, Norah is uncertain what to do with her inheritance. Upholding her sister’s dream to open it as a Bed & Breakfast, Norah welcomes her first guest, Sebastian Blaine who arrives expecting a ghostly experience. He’s a true crime podcaster and digs into the house’s history on ‘Cold, Dead, But Never Buried’. When a second guest dies, Norah fears the house’s past is catching up with its present.
I thought this was a perfect balance of suspense, mystery and faith. I appreciated the focus on the sisterly bond, anxiety, grief and loneliness, as well as the exploration on how we face our fear.
“We’re afraid of death in part because we’re afraid of the grief that follows. Death is momentary, but grief is what’s left behind.”
I was gifted this copy by Bethany House and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
March 19, 2024
*Death had been a guest here at Perdicament Avenue for decades, and it was clear that Death was not ready to check out just yet.*
Mystery in a small town with only two murders in its long history. And they both have connections to the same house, an old dilapidated manor house brought back as a Bed and Breakfast, shrouded in spooky tales. Norah Richman has grown up in the house but has no love for it since her sister was murdered and the killer never found. A famous podcaster, Sebastian Blaine,comes to research the first murder and Norah agrees to help him just to put an end to all the speculation, for the body of Isabelle Addington was never discovered.
The author captures the atmosphere of the 1910 setting and poses believable explanations for the lack of information on the first murder and its victim. Likewise, she slips into the present with unexpected events that satisfy our quest for resolution. Throughout the book, we see how fear affects different people. But as Polly speaks about her faith in her Creator, she will not let fear win. “Fear steals our joy and is the agony of those with no hope. It will not define us. Fear is the enemy we will defeat.”
Another winner from the Queen of Creepy.
*A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Bethany House through Interviews and Reviews and through NetGalley. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.*
Mystery in a small town with only two murders in its long history. And they both have connections to the same house, an old dilapidated manor house brought back as a Bed and Breakfast, shrouded in spooky tales. Norah Richman has grown up in the house but has no love for it since her sister was murdered and the killer never found. A famous podcaster, Sebastian Blaine,comes to research the first murder and Norah agrees to help him just to put an end to all the speculation, for the body of Isabelle Addington was never discovered.
The author captures the atmosphere of the 1910 setting and poses believable explanations for the lack of information on the first murder and its victim. Likewise, she slips into the present with unexpected events that satisfy our quest for resolution. Throughout the book, we see how fear affects different people. But as Polly speaks about her faith in her Creator, she will not let fear win. “Fear steals our joy and is the agony of those with no hope. It will not define us. Fear is the enemy we will defeat.”
Another winner from the Queen of Creepy.
*A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Bethany House through Interviews and Reviews and through NetGalley. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.*
May 6, 2024
Did I binge read two Jaime Jo Wright books this quiet, grey Sunday afternoon? Yes, and I have no regrets!
Atmosphere & brilliant twists are two of Jaime’s writing charms—she’s truly a queen. You can feel the chilliness & foreboding, and I never saw those end twists coming.
I enjoyed having the contemporary timeline set between 30-somethings. The dynamics were mature but relatable regardless of age. And I really just loved Nora & Sebastian (& Harper!). The historical romance angle was borderline risky in my opinion, as **SPOILERS** Anderson was posing as a married man and had interest in Effie even before it’s been revealed his actual wife has been dead for a year already. **END SPOILERS**
The themes were especially poignant and timely. Living in fear feels safe, but it’s a prison of its own kind. It’s time to let go and live in hope.
Atmosphere & brilliant twists are two of Jaime’s writing charms—she’s truly a queen. You can feel the chilliness & foreboding, and I never saw those end twists coming.
I enjoyed having the contemporary timeline set between 30-somethings. The dynamics were mature but relatable regardless of age. And I really just loved Nora & Sebastian (& Harper!). The historical romance angle was borderline risky in my opinion, as **SPOILERS** Anderson was posing as a married man and had interest in Effie even before it’s been revealed his actual wife has been dead for a year already. **END SPOILERS**
The themes were especially poignant and timely. Living in fear feels safe, but it’s a prison of its own kind. It’s time to let go and live in hope.
April 26, 2024
I think the reason this author’s books are so popular are because they are based on fear. A childhood fear, that we still have a fascination with though we may not admit it to ourselves. In reading these books we can explore this fear in a way but through a safe medium, a book. It’s a book we can completely get lost in as we enter this world of creepiness and whatever the author wants to convey to us but safely at any time, we can leave it.
With a dual timeline we find ourselves volleying between 1910 and modern times. Rumors can destroy or accentuate something. With rumors still running amuck about the house on Predicament Avenue that started over one hundred years ago the curious among us still gather. Rumors are usually started by something being true and adding on to it, an embellishment of sorts until it gets out of hand and can become dangerous.
A purported murder of a woman taking place long ago has the curious gathering. Is Predicament Avenue haunted or is it just the eerie descriptions messing with our mind?
The characters were exactly as the author wanted them set up to be, The unknown is in full force in this book and if you listen closely, you will hear the dead whispering a message to you.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.
With a dual timeline we find ourselves volleying between 1910 and modern times. Rumors can destroy or accentuate something. With rumors still running amuck about the house on Predicament Avenue that started over one hundred years ago the curious among us still gather. Rumors are usually started by something being true and adding on to it, an embellishment of sorts until it gets out of hand and can become dangerous.
A purported murder of a woman taking place long ago has the curious gathering. Is Predicament Avenue haunted or is it just the eerie descriptions messing with our mind?
The characters were exactly as the author wanted them set up to be, The unknown is in full force in this book and if you listen closely, you will hear the dead whispering a message to you.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.
April 10, 2024
“Death had been a guest here at Predicament Avenue for decades, and it was clear that Death wasn’t ready to check out quite yet.”
I have said it before and I will undoubtedly say it again (in fact, I’m getting ready to right now) – Jaime Jo Wright is a master at writing delicious creepy, twisty plots that always end up surprising me. No matter that I know beyond a shadow of a doubt that she will stay true to Scripture and Scooby Doo (iykyk), I can rarely figure out the ‘reasonable explanation’ ahead of time.
Night Falls on Predicament Avenue takes readers to 1901 and present day Iowa, as a true crime podcaster researches a century-old cold case mystery. The fact that he’s staying in the supposedly-haunted farmhouse owned by the sister of the small town’s only other murder victim amps up the suspenseful tension quite nicely. And the fact that he’s got a very swoony British accent amps up the romantic tension because yes I am that shallow. I really enjoyed – and appreciated – the way Sebastian (the swoony British podcaster i was just talking about) understands Norah’s anxiety and really seems to ‘get’ her. I thought Wright wrote Norah’s anxiety with empathetic insight and accuracy, and I am very glad that this is getting more of a spotlight in fiction lately. Especially in fiction that spreads hope. The 1901 timeline has its own swoony Brit – Anderson – and another stronger-than-she-realizes heroine in Effie James. I so admired how she rose to the occasion and exhibited more bravery than she would admit to having.
"The house at 322 Predicament Avenue held secrets, and they were screaming out to be revealed."
I loved both timelines equally in this book (usually I gravitate toward one or the other), and I was completely engrossed in the mystery of who killed Isabelle (if she was, in fact, killed), how it might connect to the more recent murder of Naomi Richman (if it does), and WHO is haunting the house on Predicament Avenue (if such a thing is possible). I was not expecting any of the twists that Wright so cleverly wove into this story – even when I was blatantly looking for them – and I thought the way the timelines end up being connected was brilliantly done. There’s absolutely no way I could have put this book down before I finished it, not even for a total solar eclipse (which I found appropriate considering the title). I was hanging on every word and fully immersed in rural Iowa and that secret-filled farmhouse and loving all the delicious tension.
Bottom Line: Night Falls on Predicament Avenue is another fabulously engrossing read from the master of dual timeline creepy stories, Jaime Jo Wright. The four main characters came effortlessly to life, holding me captive to their puzzling mysteries and complex layers – Sebastian and Norah in the present day and Effie and Anderson in the 1901 timeline. The questions and suspicions swirling around that old house on Predicament Avenue kept me on the edge of my seat, as did the occasional vignettes from someone we only know as “Her” for the majority of the story. Was she Isabelle … or Naomi… or someone altogether different? I HAD NO IDEA lol and so I kept reading, turning the pages as fast as I could but also trying to savor the expert storytelling and delightfully spooky atmosphere. The exploration of fear and grief is also particularly poignant and well-written. If you haven’t yet read a Jaime Jo Wright, this is a great place to start!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
I have said it before and I will undoubtedly say it again (in fact, I’m getting ready to right now) – Jaime Jo Wright is a master at writing delicious creepy, twisty plots that always end up surprising me. No matter that I know beyond a shadow of a doubt that she will stay true to Scripture and Scooby Doo (iykyk), I can rarely figure out the ‘reasonable explanation’ ahead of time.
Night Falls on Predicament Avenue takes readers to 1901 and present day Iowa, as a true crime podcaster researches a century-old cold case mystery. The fact that he’s staying in the supposedly-haunted farmhouse owned by the sister of the small town’s only other murder victim amps up the suspenseful tension quite nicely. And the fact that he’s got a very swoony British accent amps up the romantic tension because yes I am that shallow. I really enjoyed – and appreciated – the way Sebastian (the swoony British podcaster i was just talking about) understands Norah’s anxiety and really seems to ‘get’ her. I thought Wright wrote Norah’s anxiety with empathetic insight and accuracy, and I am very glad that this is getting more of a spotlight in fiction lately. Especially in fiction that spreads hope. The 1901 timeline has its own swoony Brit – Anderson – and another stronger-than-she-realizes heroine in Effie James. I so admired how she rose to the occasion and exhibited more bravery than she would admit to having.
"The house at 322 Predicament Avenue held secrets, and they were screaming out to be revealed."
I loved both timelines equally in this book (usually I gravitate toward one or the other), and I was completely engrossed in the mystery of who killed Isabelle (if she was, in fact, killed), how it might connect to the more recent murder of Naomi Richman (if it does), and WHO is haunting the house on Predicament Avenue (if such a thing is possible). I was not expecting any of the twists that Wright so cleverly wove into this story – even when I was blatantly looking for them – and I thought the way the timelines end up being connected was brilliantly done. There’s absolutely no way I could have put this book down before I finished it, not even for a total solar eclipse (which I found appropriate considering the title). I was hanging on every word and fully immersed in rural Iowa and that secret-filled farmhouse and loving all the delicious tension.
Bottom Line: Night Falls on Predicament Avenue is another fabulously engrossing read from the master of dual timeline creepy stories, Jaime Jo Wright. The four main characters came effortlessly to life, holding me captive to their puzzling mysteries and complex layers – Sebastian and Norah in the present day and Effie and Anderson in the 1901 timeline. The questions and suspicions swirling around that old house on Predicament Avenue kept me on the edge of my seat, as did the occasional vignettes from someone we only know as “Her” for the majority of the story. Was she Isabelle … or Naomi… or someone altogether different? I HAD NO IDEA lol and so I kept reading, turning the pages as fast as I could but also trying to savor the expert storytelling and delightfully spooky atmosphere. The exploration of fear and grief is also particularly poignant and well-written. If you haven’t yet read a Jaime Jo Wright, this is a great place to start!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
April 12, 2024
Norah struggles to run the bed and breakfast on 322 Predicament Avenue, a dream of her sister Naomi’s, whose murder still haunts her, thirteen years later. But that’s not the only murder to occur at the old farmhouse. True-crime podcaster, Sebastian Blaine shows up at the B & B to feature the murder of Isabelle Addington, a woman who was murdered over a hundred years earlier at 322 Predicament Avenue. Norah fears his podcast will drudge up her sister’s unsolved case and all the crippling memories with it. However, as details come to light, Norah realizes there are things she didn’t know, casting what she thought was true in doubt. With Sebastian’s help Norah digs deeper to find the truth.
Over a hundred years earlier in 1901, Effie and her sister Polly stumble upon a grisly scene taking place at 322 Predicament Avenue, and at first no one believes them. Soon after a Mr. Anderson seeks Effie out after hearing about the event and proclaims the murdered woman must be his wife, Isabelle Addington. They search for clues together, and it seems they are getting close to the truth as Effie and Polly narrowly escape harm.
Night Falls on Predicament Avenue was an engrossing mystery, but the pace was slow at first and took a bit to get into. From the start there was an atmospheric, spooky vibe and I wondered if the danger was from supernatural or real-life threats. You’ll have to read it to find out! There’s also a bit of romance for both Effie and Norah, but it wasn’t front and center. The story ramps up in suspense chapter by chapter and ends in an exciting and satisfying conclusion!
A copy was kindly provided by Bethany House Publishers via Austenprose PR in exchange for an honest review.
Over a hundred years earlier in 1901, Effie and her sister Polly stumble upon a grisly scene taking place at 322 Predicament Avenue, and at first no one believes them. Soon after a Mr. Anderson seeks Effie out after hearing about the event and proclaims the murdered woman must be his wife, Isabelle Addington. They search for clues together, and it seems they are getting close to the truth as Effie and Polly narrowly escape harm.
Night Falls on Predicament Avenue was an engrossing mystery, but the pace was slow at first and took a bit to get into. From the start there was an atmospheric, spooky vibe and I wondered if the danger was from supernatural or real-life threats. You’ll have to read it to find out! There’s also a bit of romance for both Effie and Norah, but it wasn’t front and center. The story ramps up in suspense chapter by chapter and ends in an exciting and satisfying conclusion!
A copy was kindly provided by Bethany House Publishers via Austenprose PR in exchange for an honest review.
April 3, 2024
Another great dual timeline mystery by Jaime Jo Wright! I'm uncertain if this one felt less creepy or if I'm just getting used to it, but I didn't have an issue reading this one after dark like I did some of her others, but that did not make it any less good. The creepy old house made for a setting that was almost a character in and of itself in both timelines. It was a bit of a twist for the house to be run-down in the historic timeline, but refurbished in the modern day timeline. Both timelines had a smarmy British hero, a small-town timid heroine and an unsolved murder associated with 322 Predicament Avenue. I thoroughly enjoyed the mystery elements of both story lines as suspense has always been my first love in reading, but I also thoroughly enjoyed the character development. There is, of course, a minor romance element that comes through in both timelines, but it is not in the forefront, so those of us who prefer the suspense to the romance are happy with that balance. However, those who need some romance in their suspense can be assured that there is some within these pages as well. This author handles the topic of grief like a pro and that was a pretty common theme in this particular storyline, as was the topic of fear. The faith thread was a bit more subtle, but when it showed up, it was solid. All in all, if you enjoy a good murder mystery, this is one I'd heartily recommend. Special thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for an advance e-copy of this book. I was under no obligation to provide a review and the thoughts contained herein are my own.
March 20, 2024
Night Falls on Predicament Avenue by Jaime Jo Wright is a gripping tale of mystery, faith, and redemption that will keep readers enthralled until the end.
Set against the backdrop of the ominous 322 Predicament Avenue, Wright crafts a narrative that seamlessly weaves together two timelines - one in 1901 and the other in the present day. Both timelines are intricately connected by the haunting presence of the old farmhouse, shrouded in rumors of ghostly apparitions and unsolved murders.
In the past, Polly and Effie's innocent act of daring sets off a chain of events that will reverberate through the decades, while in the present, Norah tries to unravel the mysteries surrounding her family's tragic past.
Wright's writing style is nothing short of mesmerizing, drawing readers in with its evocative descriptions and palpable sense of atmosphere. The suspenseful plot keeps you on the edge of your seat, eagerly turning pages to uncover the truth behind the chilling events unfolding at Predicament Avenue.
What sets Night Falls on Predicament Avenue apart is Wright's skillful exploration of faith and hope amidst the darkness. Through her characters' struggles and triumphs, she delivers a powerful message of resilience and the enduring strength found in God's grace.
The characters themselves are beautifully drawn, each with their own compelling arcs and motivations. From Norah's crippling fear to Effie's unwavering courage, Wright imbues her characters with depth and complexity, making them feel like old friends by the end of the novel.
Night Falls on Predicament Avenue is a masterfully crafted journey depicted as a relentless battle against the fear of death, the suffocating weight of grief, and the daunting task of reclaiming life's vibrant essence. With each twist and turn of the narrative, every character is thrust into the turbulent currents, their struggles shaping their paths with raw intensity and unyielding determination that will appeal to fans of mystery, suspense, and Christian fiction alike. With its richly drawn characters, atmospheric setting, and thought-provoking themes, this is a novel that will stay with you long after you have turned the final page. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a captivating and meaningful read. An essential suggestion and heartfelt recommendation: Take time to read the Author’s Note!
I received a digital copy of Night Falls on Predicament Avenue via Celebrate Lit Publicity Group through NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review in any way or for any reason. This is my honest and unbiased review. My thoughts and opinions expressed in this book review are my own. My review focuses on the excellent writing and story’s content, ensuring transparency and reliability.
Set against the backdrop of the ominous 322 Predicament Avenue, Wright crafts a narrative that seamlessly weaves together two timelines - one in 1901 and the other in the present day. Both timelines are intricately connected by the haunting presence of the old farmhouse, shrouded in rumors of ghostly apparitions and unsolved murders.
In the past, Polly and Effie's innocent act of daring sets off a chain of events that will reverberate through the decades, while in the present, Norah tries to unravel the mysteries surrounding her family's tragic past.
Wright's writing style is nothing short of mesmerizing, drawing readers in with its evocative descriptions and palpable sense of atmosphere. The suspenseful plot keeps you on the edge of your seat, eagerly turning pages to uncover the truth behind the chilling events unfolding at Predicament Avenue.
What sets Night Falls on Predicament Avenue apart is Wright's skillful exploration of faith and hope amidst the darkness. Through her characters' struggles and triumphs, she delivers a powerful message of resilience and the enduring strength found in God's grace.
The characters themselves are beautifully drawn, each with their own compelling arcs and motivations. From Norah's crippling fear to Effie's unwavering courage, Wright imbues her characters with depth and complexity, making them feel like old friends by the end of the novel.
Night Falls on Predicament Avenue is a masterfully crafted journey depicted as a relentless battle against the fear of death, the suffocating weight of grief, and the daunting task of reclaiming life's vibrant essence. With each twist and turn of the narrative, every character is thrust into the turbulent currents, their struggles shaping their paths with raw intensity and unyielding determination that will appeal to fans of mystery, suspense, and Christian fiction alike. With its richly drawn characters, atmospheric setting, and thought-provoking themes, this is a novel that will stay with you long after you have turned the final page. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a captivating and meaningful read. An essential suggestion and heartfelt recommendation: Take time to read the Author’s Note!
I received a digital copy of Night Falls on Predicament Avenue via Celebrate Lit Publicity Group through NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review in any way or for any reason. This is my honest and unbiased review. My thoughts and opinions expressed in this book review are my own. My review focuses on the excellent writing and story’s content, ensuring transparency and reliability.
April 10, 2024
Of course I loved it!! This novel kept me on the edge of my seat from the very first page until the very last page. Spooky and suspenseful, the book takes many twists and turns that are unexpected. And while initially things seem supernatural, the truth is soon revealed to be very logical. I loved how once again this talented author starts two seemingly unrelated stories separated by time and slowly reveals secrets that link details together across centuries. I also really like how this author is not afraid to dive deep into real struggles with her characters, and the demons that Effie and Norah struggle against are no exception. Grief, love, faith are all explored in such rich ways that make the characters come alive. Did I stay up too late to finish this book, and flinch at every nighttime noise outside my window? Yes! Was it all worth it? Also, yes! I highly recommend this novel!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. Opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. Opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
April 11, 2024
I received a complimentary copy for review purposes; opinions expressed are honest and mine alone.
“…in the dying, new life sprang forth. It was the bittersweet reality that for some purposes God allowed to exist-
until He made all things new.” (Effie’s thinking near the end)
Two timelines, two sisters, two brothers and two murders all come together in the tiny town of Shepherd, Iowa centering around an haunted old house at 322 Predicament Avenue. Author, Jamie Jo Wright, is methodical with how she peels back the many layers of this complex story. There are many characters and lots of threads to follow; even the most innocuous details turn out to be keys to the plot.
In all honesty, I was frustrated by the early pacing. More action and progress would have been welcomed. There was too much repetition - even between the timelines, which were over 100 years apart. If that was supposed to enhance the creepy factor, it was lost on me. Thankfully, by the 35% mark, the pace picks up and pages are turning without any cares.
Besides trying to solve family mysteries/murders, the primary characters are dealing with significant emotional or psychological issues. Wright provides some general information about how to deal with them, some Biblical insights and allows the characters to experience growth over the course of their journey. In no way is this a happy, happy, joy, joy story. It’s more realistic in its fictional context. That element earned this book an additional star and my interest in reading her other offerings📚
Read and Reviewed from a NetGalley eARC, with thanks
“…in the dying, new life sprang forth. It was the bittersweet reality that for some purposes God allowed to exist-
until He made all things new.” (Effie’s thinking near the end)
Two timelines, two sisters, two brothers and two murders all come together in the tiny town of Shepherd, Iowa centering around an haunted old house at 322 Predicament Avenue. Author, Jamie Jo Wright, is methodical with how she peels back the many layers of this complex story. There are many characters and lots of threads to follow; even the most innocuous details turn out to be keys to the plot.
In all honesty, I was frustrated by the early pacing. More action and progress would have been welcomed. There was too much repetition - even between the timelines, which were over 100 years apart. If that was supposed to enhance the creepy factor, it was lost on me. Thankfully, by the 35% mark, the pace picks up and pages are turning without any cares.
Besides trying to solve family mysteries/murders, the primary characters are dealing with significant emotional or psychological issues. Wright provides some general information about how to deal with them, some Biblical insights and allows the characters to experience growth over the course of their journey. In no way is this a happy, happy, joy, joy story. It’s more realistic in its fictional context. That element earned this book an additional star and my interest in reading her other offerings📚
Read and Reviewed from a NetGalley eARC, with thanks
April 23, 2024
I really enjoyed "The Curse of Misty Wayfair" when I read it last year, so I was very much looking forward to this release and I'm happy to report that I absolutely ate it up. It's a story about grief and fear and life and death, but at its heart are Effie and Norah, two women both dealing with different facets of losing a sister. The split-time aspect had me pinning imaginary string to an imaginary corkboard, trying to piece together the puzzle of Isabelle Addington and 322 Predicament Avenue. The faith aspect was so well done. And credit where credit is due, I was genuinely spooked a few times, and the ending caught me totally by surprise (I mean, I kinda called it, but I was suspicious of EVERYBODY so I don't think I can really say I guessed 🤣)
It easily gets 5 stars from me, and I can't wait to read more from this author!
**I received a copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley. A positive review was not required. All opinions are my own.**
It easily gets 5 stars from me, and I can't wait to read more from this author!
**I received a copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley. A positive review was not required. All opinions are my own.**
April 22, 2024
3.5 stars. It's not my favorite of hers. It started out great, but I really didn't like how either time line played out. The reason for the murder in the modern timeline was just weird.
February 25, 2024
“Death had been a guest here at Predicament Avenue for decades, and it was clear that Death wasn’t ready to check out quite yet.”
“I have dug the pit of my own grave and am simply waiting to be placed inside of it. It will happen soon. When night falls on Predicament Avenue.”
“We’re afraid of death in part because we’re afraid of the grief that follows. Death is momentary, but grief is what’s left behind. The remnants of every memory, every moment, every emotion. Grief is all the unspoken words that will never be said, the lost I-love-you’s, and the emptiness of the shadows they leave behind. Grief is a demon that stalks us.”
Another great book by Jaime Jo Wright. I am always in awe at the quality of her books. They always bring layers of creepiness, suspense, and faith elements. In Night Falls On Predicament Avenue, grief, loss, and hope are major themes and Wright masterfully handles them in both timelines. This is a book where I equally liked both timelines and the parallels between the two were excellent.
The mystery and suspense were well done. But maybe for the first time in a Jaime Jo Wright book, I guessed both timelines! Usually both timelines trick me so I must have been lucky this time. I did find the endings both satisfying.
I received this book free from publisher Bethany House and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
“I have dug the pit of my own grave and am simply waiting to be placed inside of it. It will happen soon. When night falls on Predicament Avenue.”
“We’re afraid of death in part because we’re afraid of the grief that follows. Death is momentary, but grief is what’s left behind. The remnants of every memory, every moment, every emotion. Grief is all the unspoken words that will never be said, the lost I-love-you’s, and the emptiness of the shadows they leave behind. Grief is a demon that stalks us.”
Another great book by Jaime Jo Wright. I am always in awe at the quality of her books. They always bring layers of creepiness, suspense, and faith elements. In Night Falls On Predicament Avenue, grief, loss, and hope are major themes and Wright masterfully handles them in both timelines. This is a book where I equally liked both timelines and the parallels between the two were excellent.
The mystery and suspense were well done. But maybe for the first time in a Jaime Jo Wright book, I guessed both timelines! Usually both timelines trick me so I must have been lucky this time. I did find the endings both satisfying.
I received this book free from publisher Bethany House and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
March 30, 2024
Oh my gosh, I completely ignored by long to-do list so I could finish this brilliant dual timeline story infused with page-turning mystery, debilitating fear, and ultimately precious hope.
In this story, the reader encounters two unsolved murders a century apart in the same town with ties to 322 Predicament Avenue. The more I read, the more I found myself suspecting just about everyone! The author does an amazing job creating the characters in this story, and making them real, and flawed like all human beings. I absolutely loved this captivating mystery that kept me turning pages, and the lessons learned throughout.
"And when the night falls, those who sleep can choose to fear, or hope, turn away or believe, rebel or reconcile. Because in the end, that's what life really is. The moments before we are face-to-face with God, and He enacts justice or grace. I fear the first, but truly in spite of my sins, I believe He offers the second, even if I am almost too lake in asking."
Night Falls on Predicament Avenue is a gripping, powerful read, and I highly recommend it!
Thank you to the publisher and Net Galley for allowing me to read an early copy. All opinions are my own.
In this story, the reader encounters two unsolved murders a century apart in the same town with ties to 322 Predicament Avenue. The more I read, the more I found myself suspecting just about everyone! The author does an amazing job creating the characters in this story, and making them real, and flawed like all human beings. I absolutely loved this captivating mystery that kept me turning pages, and the lessons learned throughout.
"And when the night falls, those who sleep can choose to fear, or hope, turn away or believe, rebel or reconcile. Because in the end, that's what life really is. The moments before we are face-to-face with God, and He enacts justice or grace. I fear the first, but truly in spite of my sins, I believe He offers the second, even if I am almost too lake in asking."
Night Falls on Predicament Avenue is a gripping, powerful read, and I highly recommend it!
Thank you to the publisher and Net Galley for allowing me to read an early copy. All opinions are my own.
May 9, 2024
I don't even know where to begin with this. First off, if you can, buddy read this. This was hands down the best buddy read I've ever done as the twisty, creepy plot kept me guessing and properly freaked out and needing to know how everything was going to be resolved. As always, this author masterfully weaves together two wildly connected timelines into one dark, yet surprisingly hopeful, gothic novel. Night Falls definitely has a darker, heavier vibe than the other books I've read by this author, but it made the element of hope shine even brighter. We can all either surrender to hope or fear. Fear is at the root of every act of evil or hurt, yet by God's grace, we can choose to pursue hope, life, freedom, and joy. Hope, no matter how seemingly elusive, can always be found and chased after towards brighter tomorrows through God's love and sacrifice, no matter how dark our pasts. A great representation for grief and anxiety, with chilling twists and characters we can all see ourselves in, and the choice we have to either let fear trap us or to receive God's strength, this spooky yet hopeful story will stay with me for a long time. ❤❤❤❤❤
March 24, 2024
Another thrilling dual time line crime mystery from Jaime Jo Wright. In the early 1900s Effie's sister witnesses a horrible crime that turns the town upside down. In Present day, in the same house on Preicament Ave that the crime was committed, Norah is trying to make her bed and breakfast afloat when tragedy strikes. What follows is spooky, spine tingling, and page turning as both women are trying to understand the danger that is close by. What took my breath away wasn't just the mystery. It was the themes of healing from grief and the HOPE that was found at the end. The author always says that she wants to leave her readers with hope and light at the end of her books and she does. One particular quote got me,
"How do you find such peace? The adventures you wished to had?"
"I have so many adventures coming. Who said they stop when a soul goes to heaven?"
4.5 stars
I received a complimentary copy from Netgalley. All opinions are my own.
"How do you find such peace? The adventures you wished to had?"
"I have so many adventures coming. Who said they stop when a soul goes to heaven?"
4.5 stars
I received a complimentary copy from Netgalley. All opinions are my own.
December 28, 2023
What a story! Excellent writing that made the hairs stand up on the back of my neck throughout this novel.
Split timeline that was written very well but I'm going to say I loved Effie's and Polly's story best as it is historical. My favorite thing of course.
A wonderful mystery that kept me guessing until almost the end in both timelines. Nora's especially shocked me. I was left open mouthed I couldn't say a word. But, as this quote I'm sharing with y'all says you never really know what when where why and when a person is thinking about or going through to trigger them into doing something evil.
“Those folks lived life and then died—who knows what they saw and had to suffer through? We can’t be afraid to live just ’cause we’re afraid of dyin’. Seems to me we’d be better off seekin’ out the truth of it.”
Ralph sure is full of wisdom isn't he? I decided that I liked him after all.
I'm glad that he was there for comfort.
Friends, God is also here for comfort.
Live. Hope. Believe. Surrender is all God is asking.
This book didn't let me put it down until Norah and Effie had told their stories.
I really loved this novel.
What made me most happy to see in this novel was the author's notes because she talked about God.
Don't be afraid to live and love. Fear is the culprit. Fear makes people do evil.
Wright has done another amazing novel. I eagerly await the next one.
I will still say Echoes among the Stones is my very favorite. This book is right up there with that one.
5 stars for an awesome read once again by Jaime Jo Wright. Please keep them coming!
I highly recommend.
My thanks to Netgalley and Bethany House for a copy of this book.
I was NOT required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Split timeline that was written very well but I'm going to say I loved Effie's and Polly's story best as it is historical. My favorite thing of course.
A wonderful mystery that kept me guessing until almost the end in both timelines. Nora's especially shocked me. I was left open mouthed I couldn't say a word. But, as this quote I'm sharing with y'all says you never really know what when where why and when a person is thinking about or going through to trigger them into doing something evil.
“Those folks lived life and then died—who knows what they saw and had to suffer through? We can’t be afraid to live just ’cause we’re afraid of dyin’. Seems to me we’d be better off seekin’ out the truth of it.”
Ralph sure is full of wisdom isn't he? I decided that I liked him after all.
I'm glad that he was there for comfort.
Friends, God is also here for comfort.
Live. Hope. Believe. Surrender is all God is asking.
This book didn't let me put it down until Norah and Effie had told their stories.
I really loved this novel.
What made me most happy to see in this novel was the author's notes because she talked about God.
Don't be afraid to live and love. Fear is the culprit. Fear makes people do evil.
Wright has done another amazing novel. I eagerly await the next one.
I will still say Echoes among the Stones is my very favorite. This book is right up there with that one.
5 stars for an awesome read once again by Jaime Jo Wright. Please keep them coming!
I highly recommend.
My thanks to Netgalley and Bethany House for a copy of this book.
I was NOT required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
April 21, 2024
“…A person’s life, no matter how short or how long, how peaceful or how turbulent, how adventurous or how tragic, is not wasted. Not when you have hope. It might be a tiny pinprick of light in a world of darkness, but it’s there all the same.”
Another fantastic gothic delight from Jaimie Jo Wright! I have to admit that I count down the days until her next book because I know I’ll be thoroughly entertained, inspired, and spooked. Night Falls on Predicament Avenue is an eerie thrill ride but also a triumph of hope over fear. In this mysterious dual time period story, two sisters a century apart have to live with the aftermath of what happened on 322 Predicament Avenue.
Shepherd, Iowa, 1901 Effie James accompanies her adventurous sister Polly on a dare to peek inside the creepy abandoned house at 322 Predicament Avenue. When Polly peers through the window, she witnesses a murder that leaves her in a weakened state, unable to speak. Effie, who heard the screams, is dumbfounded when no murder victim is found. When a handsome British gentleman arrives and claims it was his wife that was murdered, he and Effie embark on a mission to find the truth of what happened that night.
Modern Day, Norah Richman is doing her best to live her life after her twin sister’s terrible murder 13 years previous. Despite her anxiety and grief, Norah fulfill’s her twin’s dream of running a bed and breakfast out of the home she inherited from her aunt at 322 Predicament Avenue. Growing up on the ghost stories her aunt told surrounding the house, she’s trying to survive her own nightmare. When one of her houseguests dies, she relies on the charming British historian and host of a true crime podcast who’s also staying at the bed and breakfast to help her unravel the truth of what took place at 322 Predicament Avenue in the distant past and 13 years ago.
Jaime Jo Wright is the queen of spooky gothic romances and I absolutely adored the stories in both time periods. The mysteries kept me guessing with several suspects in each story. Effie & Norah were such sympathetic characters. Both had to grow and overcome their fears in order to bring the truth to light. I also enjoyed the chilling narration from the mysterious “Her” sprinkled throughout. I could honestly feel the fear rolling off the pages that each character experienced, however I loved the overall message that hope and faith conquer fear.
Though there’s a lot of suspense, I loved the romances in both stories. The author gave us not one, but two swoony British heroes. Anderson is the Englishman whom Effie falls for and I loved the way he believed in her and helped her through her grief. I also loved Sebastian Blaine. He’s a bit of a free spirit who learns from Norah the importance of being there for those you love.
This is definitely one gothic romance fans won’t want to miss! Highly recommend! I received an advanced complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own and voluntarily provided. 4.5-5 stars!
Another fantastic gothic delight from Jaimie Jo Wright! I have to admit that I count down the days until her next book because I know I’ll be thoroughly entertained, inspired, and spooked. Night Falls on Predicament Avenue is an eerie thrill ride but also a triumph of hope over fear. In this mysterious dual time period story, two sisters a century apart have to live with the aftermath of what happened on 322 Predicament Avenue.
Shepherd, Iowa, 1901 Effie James accompanies her adventurous sister Polly on a dare to peek inside the creepy abandoned house at 322 Predicament Avenue. When Polly peers through the window, she witnesses a murder that leaves her in a weakened state, unable to speak. Effie, who heard the screams, is dumbfounded when no murder victim is found. When a handsome British gentleman arrives and claims it was his wife that was murdered, he and Effie embark on a mission to find the truth of what happened that night.
Modern Day, Norah Richman is doing her best to live her life after her twin sister’s terrible murder 13 years previous. Despite her anxiety and grief, Norah fulfill’s her twin’s dream of running a bed and breakfast out of the home she inherited from her aunt at 322 Predicament Avenue. Growing up on the ghost stories her aunt told surrounding the house, she’s trying to survive her own nightmare. When one of her houseguests dies, she relies on the charming British historian and host of a true crime podcast who’s also staying at the bed and breakfast to help her unravel the truth of what took place at 322 Predicament Avenue in the distant past and 13 years ago.
Jaime Jo Wright is the queen of spooky gothic romances and I absolutely adored the stories in both time periods. The mysteries kept me guessing with several suspects in each story. Effie & Norah were such sympathetic characters. Both had to grow and overcome their fears in order to bring the truth to light. I also enjoyed the chilling narration from the mysterious “Her” sprinkled throughout. I could honestly feel the fear rolling off the pages that each character experienced, however I loved the overall message that hope and faith conquer fear.
Though there’s a lot of suspense, I loved the romances in both stories. The author gave us not one, but two swoony British heroes. Anderson is the Englishman whom Effie falls for and I loved the way he believed in her and helped her through her grief. I also loved Sebastian Blaine. He’s a bit of a free spirit who learns from Norah the importance of being there for those you love.
This is definitely one gothic romance fans won’t want to miss! Highly recommend! I received an advanced complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own and voluntarily provided. 4.5-5 stars!
May 10, 2024
1910, Effie James won’t rest until her younger sister is safe. After witnessing a murder Effie’s sister, Polly, was left mute but the killer can’t take the chance she’ll talk. Effie is trying to prove what Polly saw was real when a British gentleman, Mr. Anderson, interrupts her investigation with his own. He’s looking for his wife, Isabelle Addington, who was last seen at the same place Polly witnessed a murder, 322 Predicament Avenue. Effie finds what she’s looking for when a room in the house shows blood on the walls. Effie doesn’t know it yet but she will forever be linked to a scandal at 322 Predicament Avenue where one woman’s secrets seem to curse anyone who wants to expose them. A century later, Norah Richman is doing her best to get a handle on her social anxiety and her grief. She’s in charge of running her late great-aunt’s B&B on 322 Predicament Avenue. Norah has no love for this place but a sense of obligation to her murdered sister’s dream keeps her there. Crime historian podcaster, Sebastian Blaine, is staying at the B&B to investigate the houses’s claim to fame. A guest dies suddenly linking the haunting of Isabelle Addington. Norah and Sebastian work together to uncover the century-old curse that still threatens death.
Shrouded in mystery the suspense grows as the book progresses connecting two women a century apart who are searching for answers. The dual timeline follows Effie and Norah on their separate quests to unmask a killer. Effie risks everything to save her sister and her investigation leads her to an unthinkable scheme that will stay with the house at 322 Predicament Avenue forever. She has help from the elusive Mr.Anderson who’s hiding more than one secret while searching for his missing wife. Norah is still grieving the loss of her sister while trying to overcome her anxiety. A death at the B&B brings the past back to the surface. Teaming with Sebastian, Norah helps dig into the case of Isabelle Addington who seems to still be haunting the house. A reluctant Norah also searches for answers on her sister’s murder. An unexpected surprise is revealed to Norah and leads her to the horrific truth of a killer with a twisted sense of mercy. There’s a third point of view known only as “the woman” who has small excerpts woven into the story and remains a mystery until all is revealed. The author kept the fog of uncertainty hanging over the story and the smoke in mirrors secrets that hover on the edge of what seems to be a haunting. If you’re one of those readers who skips the author’s note I highly recommend reading it as the author eloquently writes of grief, loss, hope, and finding faith in the hardest of times.
Shrouded in mystery the suspense grows as the book progresses connecting two women a century apart who are searching for answers. The dual timeline follows Effie and Norah on their separate quests to unmask a killer. Effie risks everything to save her sister and her investigation leads her to an unthinkable scheme that will stay with the house at 322 Predicament Avenue forever. She has help from the elusive Mr.Anderson who’s hiding more than one secret while searching for his missing wife. Norah is still grieving the loss of her sister while trying to overcome her anxiety. A death at the B&B brings the past back to the surface. Teaming with Sebastian, Norah helps dig into the case of Isabelle Addington who seems to still be haunting the house. A reluctant Norah also searches for answers on her sister’s murder. An unexpected surprise is revealed to Norah and leads her to the horrific truth of a killer with a twisted sense of mercy. There’s a third point of view known only as “the woman” who has small excerpts woven into the story and remains a mystery until all is revealed. The author kept the fog of uncertainty hanging over the story and the smoke in mirrors secrets that hover on the edge of what seems to be a haunting. If you’re one of those readers who skips the author’s note I highly recommend reading it as the author eloquently writes of grief, loss, hope, and finding faith in the hardest of times.
April 8, 2024
Night Falls on Predicament Avenue by Jaime Jo Wright is another time-slip novel where something happens inside a house. From the first chapter, Wright magically opens the mystery with two girls looking into a spooky house and then one screaming. From there, Wright takes readers through a crazy whirl of hunting for clues in the past and the present. Death has hit Wright hard when she wrote this book, so I can totally relate to the feelings that “Her” is having. I lost my Daddy 8 plus years ago, and it still hurts. Coming to terms with death is not easy. When anyone loses someone close to them, the pain does not go away, we just learn to live every day without that person. I believe this story was Wright’s way of trying to face the grief that death has gifted to her. This is the main reason I believe Wright’s characters are the strongest aspect of her novel. She dug deep into her own hurt and dragged into the characters and made them feel her pain. Similarly, the plot was moving and addictive. I enjoyed the story and couldn’t wait to see who the killer was in both time periods. Overall, Night Falls on Predicament Avenue by Jaime Jo Wright explores the pain of losing someone with a murder mystery to guide the plot forward. I really enjoyed the story.
I received a complimentary copy of Night Falls on Predicament Avenue by Jaime Jo Wright from Bethany House Publishing, but the opinions stated are all my own.
I received a complimentary copy of Night Falls on Predicament Avenue by Jaime Jo Wright from Bethany House Publishing, but the opinions stated are all my own.
May 4, 2024
honestly not sure with this one. I really liked the story and plot, and of course this one has the typical Jaime Jo creep factor. But the execution of the story really needed to be edited over a few more times and honestly I think this story would have benefitted from more time spent on it. It felt rushed, clunky in certain spots, and there are so many plot holes where I'm wondering what happened. This just doesn't feel like the Jaime Jo writing I've become used to.
Also, the historical romance was totally inappropriate. By the time the issue resolved itself so that the relationship could be seen as appropriate, a relationship was already fully established. It took too long and too much invested in the story to get there.
Also, the historical romance was totally inappropriate. By the time the issue resolved itself so that the relationship could be seen as appropriate, a relationship was already fully established. It took too long and too much invested in the story to get there.
March 16, 2024
Jaime Jo Wright proves once again that she is queen of suspense in this dual timeline mystery. With expert plot pacing, Ms. Wright skillfully parcels out clues in both storylines, keeping her readers engaged from the first page to the last. Two unexplained murders occurring a hundred years apart have given the house at 322 Predicament Avenue a creepy reputation.
While I guessed at the identity of the villain in one of the storylines, I was taken by surprise by the other. I love how Ms. Wright builds the suspense equally between both stories. While I enjoyed both, I was quickly drawn to Norah. Hoping she would be able to overcome the overwhelming grief and fear that continue to haunt her.
While I can always count on the author to pen a great mystery filled with gothic creepiness, I also count on the subtle faith elements woven throughout. While this story is definitely tainted with tragedy and grief, it also has a strong message of hope. Eagerly awaiting the next book!
***I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley and the author/publisher. I was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
While I guessed at the identity of the villain in one of the storylines, I was taken by surprise by the other. I love how Ms. Wright builds the suspense equally between both stories. While I enjoyed both, I was quickly drawn to Norah. Hoping she would be able to overcome the overwhelming grief and fear that continue to haunt her.
While I can always count on the author to pen a great mystery filled with gothic creepiness, I also count on the subtle faith elements woven throughout. While this story is definitely tainted with tragedy and grief, it also has a strong message of hope. Eagerly awaiting the next book!
***I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley and the author/publisher. I was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
April 25, 2024
A farmhouse in smalltown Iowa with a history of death and vanishing. If ghosts walk, they walk there the locals know and two women separated by more than a century are connected to the house by death. A deeper connection slowly surfaces as the danger grows more acute on Predicament Avenue.
I have seen a few titles from Jaime Jo Wright release and they caught my attention, but the timing was always bad for picking them up at the time. Finally, I was able to fit one in and now I’m regretting not clearing space when I encountered those past releases. Night Falls on Predicament Avenue had a fabulous and chilling gothic atmosphere from the first pages and kept up that intensity throughout the book that followed two different timelines: Effie in 1910 and Norah in the present. I was further gratified to learn that Norah’s struggle with anxiety were respectfully providing strong mental health representation.
Usually, I gravitate toward the historical end of a dual timeline story and that was somewhat true in this one because the historical end had a well written 1910 backdrop. However, it was not a big difference gap because the author put parallels into Effie and Norah’s story so that history seemed to be repeating itself though both women had different personalities and general circumstances.
Effie was investigating the woman’s death with the British widower and Norah was investigating the ghostly history of her B&B with a British true crime podcaster staying as her guest. Though this was wonderfully chilling putting it in the gothic genre, this was mystery not horror and the plot had the dealing with grief and anxiety through their Faith giving it that hopeful personal growth element, too. I had suspicions for both time lines, but nah, I was well and far off so the big reveal particularly in Norah’s timeline got me good.
In summary, I found Night Falls on Predicament Avenue and the ‘haunted’ house dual timeline mystery a superb reading experience. Off I go to add Jaime Jo Wright’s backlist to my staggering TBR pile. Recommended for those who enjoy gothic split time mysteries and inspirational fiction.
I rec’d an eARC via NetGalley from Austenprose to read in exchange for an honest review.
My full review will post at Books of My Heart on Apr 10, 2024 for the Austenprose Tour.
I have seen a few titles from Jaime Jo Wright release and they caught my attention, but the timing was always bad for picking them up at the time. Finally, I was able to fit one in and now I’m regretting not clearing space when I encountered those past releases. Night Falls on Predicament Avenue had a fabulous and chilling gothic atmosphere from the first pages and kept up that intensity throughout the book that followed two different timelines: Effie in 1910 and Norah in the present. I was further gratified to learn that Norah’s struggle with anxiety were respectfully providing strong mental health representation.
Usually, I gravitate toward the historical end of a dual timeline story and that was somewhat true in this one because the historical end had a well written 1910 backdrop. However, it was not a big difference gap because the author put parallels into Effie and Norah’s story so that history seemed to be repeating itself though both women had different personalities and general circumstances.
Effie was investigating the woman’s death with the British widower and Norah was investigating the ghostly history of her B&B with a British true crime podcaster staying as her guest. Though this was wonderfully chilling putting it in the gothic genre, this was mystery not horror and the plot had the dealing with grief and anxiety through their Faith giving it that hopeful personal growth element, too. I had suspicions for both time lines, but nah, I was well and far off so the big reveal particularly in Norah’s timeline got me good.
In summary, I found Night Falls on Predicament Avenue and the ‘haunted’ house dual timeline mystery a superb reading experience. Off I go to add Jaime Jo Wright’s backlist to my staggering TBR pile. Recommended for those who enjoy gothic split time mysteries and inspirational fiction.
I rec’d an eARC via NetGalley from Austenprose to read in exchange for an honest review.
My full review will post at Books of My Heart on Apr 10, 2024 for the Austenprose Tour.
January 2, 2024
What a way to start the new year! Jaime Jo Wright does not disappoint. I was sure I had it all figured out, but no she proves me wrong.
A haunting, a missing body and a dead sister all make for the perfect read for this weekend.
Straight up mystery with a chill Wright’s books a just plain and simply a good read.
A haunting, a missing body and a dead sister all make for the perfect read for this weekend.
Straight up mystery with a chill Wright’s books a just plain and simply a good read.
April 27, 2024
BOOK REVIEW - Night Falls on Predicament Avenue - Jaime Jo Wright - 5/5 Stars
THE STORY
I have no idea how Jaime Jo Wright comes up with these stories but each one is just soooo good (hint they're all favourites) but this one is my current favouritest! The mystery, the suspense, she knows just when to end a chapter leaving you hungry for more. I've read every single one of her books in less than 3 days as I just can't put them down. The problem with mysteries is I can't talk much about the storyline without spoilers. I'll just say this one is more spine-tingling than usual. And also as a fan of true crime, I can oft forget these are not just entertaining stories but real life with real people suffering trauma from the aftermath, so I found reading from the perspective of the victim's family a good reminder.
THE ROMANCE
Jamie Jo Wright's books are not romances but they always have just enough in them to satisfy romance lovers like myself. I liked both couples but especially loved Effie and Mr Anderson, the last chapter makes their slow burn worth it!
THE TRUTHS
Fear is a big theme in this story. While the fear I've felt may not quite to the same degree as the MCs, what we can both agree on is that fear steals our hope and eternal perspective. It makes us focus on our current seemingly hopeless circumstances and tells us they will never change so why move forward. It makes us forget this life isn't all that there is, that we have an eternal one ahead us. One without fear, pain or sadness, a life where we will be free from the burdens of this world. Fear freezes us, hope keeps us moving toward the better future God has promised us.
THE STORY
I have no idea how Jaime Jo Wright comes up with these stories but each one is just soooo good (hint they're all favourites) but this one is my current favouritest! The mystery, the suspense, she knows just when to end a chapter leaving you hungry for more. I've read every single one of her books in less than 3 days as I just can't put them down. The problem with mysteries is I can't talk much about the storyline without spoilers. I'll just say this one is more spine-tingling than usual. And also as a fan of true crime, I can oft forget these are not just entertaining stories but real life with real people suffering trauma from the aftermath, so I found reading from the perspective of the victim's family a good reminder.
THE ROMANCE
Jamie Jo Wright's books are not romances but they always have just enough in them to satisfy romance lovers like myself. I liked both couples but especially loved Effie and Mr Anderson, the last chapter makes their slow burn worth it!
THE TRUTHS
Fear is a big theme in this story. While the fear I've felt may not quite to the same degree as the MCs, what we can both agree on is that fear steals our hope and eternal perspective. It makes us focus on our current seemingly hopeless circumstances and tells us they will never change so why move forward. It makes us forget this life isn't all that there is, that we have an eternal one ahead us. One without fear, pain or sadness, a life where we will be free from the burdens of this world. Fear freezes us, hope keeps us moving toward the better future God has promised us.
April 15, 2024
"Fear steals our joy and is the agony of those with no hope. It will not define us. Fear is the enemy we will defeat."
Ah, it's another deliciously delightful murder mystery and ghost story from Jaime Jo Wright. This book is less eerie and frightful than her previous books and has more romance (yes, you heard me right). It also addresses grief and fear and has excellent observations on how we can approach both potentially crippling emotions.
Effie's 1901 third person voice is loyal, loving, and proper yet when her younger sister's health and reputation are on the line, she breaks out of her predictable self and goes hunting for truth. Norah's present day third person voice is fearful, anxiety-ridden, and completely trapped in the past that she cannot live in the present. Effie and Norah are connected by the house on 322 Predicament Avenue and their dual timeline story of murder, betrayal, and discovery of self is an unforgettable one. Though Anderson in 1901 and Sebastian in the present time do not have their own perspectives in the story, the author weaves their characters and backstories impeccably into the women's lives that they still feel like main characters. Their relationships are fragile yet deep on a soul-connecting level and their romance is tentative, quite tender and amazingly sweet.
It's another must-read from Jaime Jo Wright. I don't know how she does it, but her books just keep getting better and better! I received a complimentary copy courtesy of Bethany House via Celebrate Lit Tours and was under no obligation to post a positive review. All opinions are my own.
Ah, it's another deliciously delightful murder mystery and ghost story from Jaime Jo Wright. This book is less eerie and frightful than her previous books and has more romance (yes, you heard me right). It also addresses grief and fear and has excellent observations on how we can approach both potentially crippling emotions.
Effie's 1901 third person voice is loyal, loving, and proper yet when her younger sister's health and reputation are on the line, she breaks out of her predictable self and goes hunting for truth. Norah's present day third person voice is fearful, anxiety-ridden, and completely trapped in the past that she cannot live in the present. Effie and Norah are connected by the house on 322 Predicament Avenue and their dual timeline story of murder, betrayal, and discovery of self is an unforgettable one. Though Anderson in 1901 and Sebastian in the present time do not have their own perspectives in the story, the author weaves their characters and backstories impeccably into the women's lives that they still feel like main characters. Their relationships are fragile yet deep on a soul-connecting level and their romance is tentative, quite tender and amazingly sweet.
It's another must-read from Jaime Jo Wright. I don't know how she does it, but her books just keep getting better and better! I received a complimentary copy courtesy of Bethany House via Celebrate Lit Tours and was under no obligation to post a positive review. All opinions are my own.
April 9, 2024
I'm a huge fan of Jaime Jo Wright's book since I read THE PREMONITION AT WITHERS FARM around two years ago. Her stories are unique because they are horrific (in the best way) and thrilling but also Christian Fiction. I feel like this allows me to recommend these books to everyone who loves reading, no matter if they usually read CF or not.
NIGHT FALLS ON PREDICAMENT AVENUE, once again, fits the bill for a quality story from Wright. Like all of her novels, there were two timelines.
One of the POVs was Norah, an identical twin who lost her sister 13 years prior, and the other was Effie, whose sister is on the edge of death. Norah (present) lived in the B&B that her sister always dreamed about, but she was stuck somewhere between living in the present and being stuck in the past. I enjoyed watching her story progress as she welcomed more people into her heart and got to the root of her sister's death. She had a lot to learn about the person she used to be and the person she wanted to become. Wright did a great job looking at grief and how far it will follow a person.
Effie, in the past, doesn't fit society's ideas on how a woman should act. That, mixed with her interest in the new Englishman in town, made her prone to gossip. So much of what I could say about this section of the book would give spoilers, but I enjoyed how Wright tied everything of the past together with the events of the present. It spoke to societal ideas and how, even back then, money speaks.
A wonderful book that kept me engaged and intrigued!
NIGHT FALLS ON PREDICAMENT AVENUE, once again, fits the bill for a quality story from Wright. Like all of her novels, there were two timelines.
One of the POVs was Norah, an identical twin who lost her sister 13 years prior, and the other was Effie, whose sister is on the edge of death. Norah (present) lived in the B&B that her sister always dreamed about, but she was stuck somewhere between living in the present and being stuck in the past. I enjoyed watching her story progress as she welcomed more people into her heart and got to the root of her sister's death. She had a lot to learn about the person she used to be and the person she wanted to become. Wright did a great job looking at grief and how far it will follow a person.
Effie, in the past, doesn't fit society's ideas on how a woman should act. That, mixed with her interest in the new Englishman in town, made her prone to gossip. So much of what I could say about this section of the book would give spoilers, but I enjoyed how Wright tied everything of the past together with the events of the present. It spoke to societal ideas and how, even back then, money speaks.
A wonderful book that kept me engaged and intrigued!
April 15, 2024
My goodness but this was the perfect read for a rainy weekend! I had a lovely time curling up under a warm blanket, sipping iced coffee and diving into this fascinating story of murder, secrets and mystery. The dual timeline with alternating chapters is so very well written, and clearly Jaime is gifted at crafting such an intriguing story. Her books are ones that you absolutely must read from start to finish with as few breaks as possible, because you won’t be able to stand not knowing what happens next. This particular book showcases her talent for writing suspense but she also delves into the personal side of death -the loss, grief, pain, and brokenness that come with it. Along with this, there comes healing, hope and a renewed sense of self when the time is taken to forgive and let go of the past. I cannot tell you enough how much I hope you will grab a copy of this marvelous story so you can go on such a great journey with Effie, Anderson, Norah and Sebastian. This will definitely be a book that keeps a place on my favorites shelf.
I received this complimentary copy from the Author via AustenProse. I am not required by anyone to write a positive review and the opinions expressed herein are entirely my own.
I received this complimentary copy from the Author via AustenProse. I am not required by anyone to write a positive review and the opinions expressed herein are entirely my own.
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