A friend said this is Phantom of the Opera meets Scooby Doo and that nails the vibe of this book. This book is a fantastic balance between spooky scary and a true mystery that deals with morality and how we should treat others.

I am a sucker for a well done dual timeline, and I think this one balances the storylines so well as the mystery weave in and out of time.

This book is a Christian book and although not heavy on the faith themes, I like that Jaime Jo Wright has a made a space for spooky reads in this market.

Content Note: loss of children, loss of loved ones, kidnapping, forced institutionalization, scary/paranormal content

Thanks to Bethany House Fiction for the gifted book. All opinions are my own.

The Barlowe Theater has been a magnet for supernatural legends & lore since its' opening at the turn of the century. Many of the stories are pure fables - but some of them have an element of truth. Kit Boyd comes face-to-face with this ghostly mystery when her best friend disappears on a ghost hunting expedition at the Barlowe. The owners think the disappearance is a stunt to bring notoriety to the historic theater, but Kit knows her friend would never fake their own disappearance for publicity - and fears the worst. An unlikely partnership is formed between Kit and the paranormal team to search for clues, both natural & unnatural, that may help find their friend. However, as they dig deeper, more strange events begin to unfold that cause the team to wonder if this disappearance extends beyond the reaches of the Barlowe Theater.

In 1915, Greta Mercy attends the illustrious Barlowe theater with her friends and finds that the experience is far from grand. Greta observes a baby being thrown off of the upper balcony by its' mother during the performance - but no one else in the theater saw it happen. While working with the police to clarify what happened, Greta's young brother and his friends disappear - inside Barlowe Theater. These events are too extraordinary not to be connected, especially if the legends of the new theater are true.

Can Greta and Kit find their loved ones and will they be alive within the confines of the haunted Barlowe Theater? Read on to find out....

This was a really awesome book! I could not put it down! Jaime Jo Wright never disappoints with her novels and this is no exception! Thank you so much LibraryThing Early Reviewers for the advanced copy! I eagerly await the next novel from this very talented artist!

“The Lost Boys of Barlowe Theater” is a dual timeline suspenseful ride. I loved the atmosphere it created as I read through the pages and felt like I was with Greta as she looked for her brother in 1915 in the basement of the theater. I felt like I could feel Kit’s frustration as she tried to prove ghost sitings impossible while she tried to find her missing friend. I always love how Jaime wraps up her stories in the end and tucks all the questions to bed in a nice cozy blanket. She always leaves me with a satisfied feeling and this book was no different!

*I was given a copy of this book by the publisher. All of my opinions are my own.

Wow! Another fab Jaime Jo wright novel.
I had to wonder how she’d pull this one off!
This one had all the feels of a ghost story (and to be honest - I really don't care for ghost stories. at all!!) but I knew that JJW would somehow make it all work out.
This story is full of mystery, illusions, smoke and mirrors. It is hard to know what is real and what is only perceived.
Both timelines were intriguing, although I think I liked the modern day one the best.
Kit is absolutely horrified when her dear friend Maddie disappears from the Barlowe theater. She knew the theater had a history of such things, but really?! Now?! What is going on? She is determined to get to the bottom of it.
The more she digs, the more dangerous her own life becomes. Why is she seemingly the target of it all?

Yes, Jaime Jo Wright has done it again - written another masterpiece, amazing characters, intriguing setting, and so much more!

Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review, and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

Filled with atmospheric and haunting details mixed with a dual-time mystery all I can say is Jamie Jo has done it again!

I’ve come to associate creepy atmospheric writing with Wright’s books and I can only assume that’s how she likes it. And when something’s not broke you definitely shouldn’t fix it!

This story had some lovely, creepy moments, but always with the underlying tension between what it’s like to trust in the Lord and yet the things the world tries to convince you of.

The mysteries were complex but not overly so, and I really enjoyed the romance. I think the only thing I had a hard time with was Kit. She kind of drove me up the wall :/ I hate to say it, but there were time’s she made extremely foolish decisions that almost seemed unbelievable but I appreciated the author’s note at the end that explained the abandonment issues that come with being adopted as a child and what I struggled with could have just been things that don’t make sense to me, but would to someone in that situation.

I can always recommend Jamie Jo’s books and would happily do so with this one. While there is mention of spiritualists etc. it’s handled in a great way that does not sensationalize anything and always brings us back to the truth.

My rating: 4.5*

—
Thanks to Netgalley for this advanced copy. All opinions are my own.

I generally enjoy dual timeline stories and this was no exception. The characters were dynamic and Greta was amazing. I loved everyone and every moment.

Thank you to NetGalley for this ARC. All opinions expressed are my own.

The Lost Boys of Barlowe Theater is the first book by Jamie Jo Wright that I have read, and it will not be the last. Wright crafts an atmospheric dual timeline mystery surrounding a local theater. The characters and story drew me in from the beginning and kept me reading to determine if I had solved the mystery correctly. The Lost Boys of Barlowe Theater will appeal to readers who enjoy suspenseful mysteries with a faith filled message. Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and the publisher for my advanced review copy. All opinions and thoughts are my own.

The Lost Boys of Barlowe Theater by Jaime Jo Wright is a wholly engrossing work of dual historical fiction. The research that this author puts into her novels is truly outstanding and it shows it what feels like effortless settings and characters throughout this book. I love this author’s ability to tell captivating stories with realistic characters. And she never fails to terrify me at times! Based on real historical places and legends, this is Jaime Jo’s storytelling at its best. I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher with no obligations. These opinions are entirely my own.

Another thriller and chiller from the master of dual time mysteries! I don't know how JJW keeps coming up with these stories but I'm glad she does! Always a thrill ride!

Synopsis: In this dual timeline novel, Greta Mercy is disturbed by haunting appearances in a theater in 1915. Unable to shake the memories, Greta is believed to be on the brink of insanity. So when her brother disappears in the theater, Greta’s story is held in question. As best friend of a modern day ghost hunter, Kit Boyd is equally as disturbed when her friend disappears inside the theater on a filming mission. In an attempt to find her friend, Kit embarks on a journey that takes her through the past to discover the truth of the present.

Analysis: Jaime Jo Wright is a new to me author, and with this book, I won’t be able to get enough! Every page kept me wanting more. Phantom of the Opera meets Scooby Doo in The Lost Boys of Barlowe Theater. It’s the perfect blend of spooky and mystery that also dives into serious human topics such as the unsaid caste system and helping the poor. Jaime Jo provides a unique Christian perspective on a world often left untouched.

This might just be Jaime Jo Wright’s best book yet. I tend to say this about the last several of her books, but she does get better with each novel!

In 1915, Barlowe Theater was under construction and takes the life of Greta Mercy’s oldest brother. Greta has been left in charge of her siblings after the death of her parents. Now her youngest brother has gone missing after he and friends break into Barlowe theater and Greta must work with the local police to find the secrets of the theater.

Decades later Kit Boyd is now dealing with her own problems with Barlowe Theater when her best friend disappears while they are filming an episode of a ghost-hunters show. Evan Fisher is the skeptic that tries to disprove the ghost-hunter and he joins in with Kit to help solve the secrets of Barlowe Theater and they quickly become close as they try to solve the mysteries that have plagued her hometown.

Man, just when I think Jaime Jo Wright can’t get any better, she comes out with another hit that is hard to put down and gives me chills long into the night. The back-and-forth mystery and the way it all came together at the end gave me goosebumps. Wright has become a favorite of mine with her time-slip novels and the spooky stories that are free of gore or any foul language. It is so rare to find a book that is clean and not filled with anything questionable, especially when dealing with ghosts and things of that nature. I would recommend this book to anyone that is looking for a spooky mystery that is clean and without any material that is unsavory. One of the few books I wish I could give more than 5 stars.

I received a complimentary copy of this title from the publisher. The views and opinions expressed within are my own.

The Lost Boys of Barlowe Theater is a very atmospheric book, Jaime Jo Wright does such a great job writing atmosphere. I love it when authors can do that. I was more partial to the historical timeline in this book, the present day timeline had more of an insta-love scenario that I'm not usually a fan of.

WOW!! What an absolutely THRILLING tale! Jaime Jo Wright has such a talent for crafting spooky stories with plenty of mystery and intrigue perfectly balanced with touching faith elements and light romance.

“The Lost Boys of Barlowe Theater” is a story that will stick with me for a long time. The two timelines we follow span the course of a century, and both FMCs touched my heart in a super special way❤️ In the 1800s we follow Greta Mercy, an impoverished young woman charged with the care of her younger brothers after the deaths of her parents a few years prior. When the local haunted theater takes yet another one of her brothers, Greta is tasked with uncovering the mysteries behind this spooky theater to bring her brother home!!

In present day we follow Kit Boyd, a young woman with a fondness for insects & a passion for helping those less fortunate. When Kit’s altruistic friend, Madison, tries to save a local historic theater from being demolished by her money-minded grandfather, Kit hesitantly agrees to help her friend by starring in a “Ghost Hunters”-esque TV show. Hoping to draw more attention to the theater’s historic value, Madison & Kit venture deep into the basement of the theater to investigate the myths surrounding the haunted building. Local legends start proving to be true when Madison suddenly disappears within the halls of Barlowe theater… Will Kit ever find out the truth behind her friend’s disappearance??😱

Overall, I HIGHLY enjoyed this eerie mystery! It’s perfect for fall & spooky season!! The narrators on the audiobook were superb!

Read if you enjoy…
❤️ Dual timelines
❤️ Ghost stories
❤️ Mysteries
❤️ Historical settings
❤️ Faith elements
❤️ Adoption representation

🚨CW: clean historical fiction with no language & just kisses

Wow, I had a really hard time putting this book down and stayed up way too late two nights in a row to finish it! Once again, this talented author takes you on a journey where you find yourself questioning if ghosts are real or what the answer to the supernatural events will be! I loved the suspense in the novel and was truly surprised at the twists and turns. I also love how this author tackles some very real and raw themes and is not afraid to be vulnerable in her writing. She writes about adoption and acceptance with great depth that made it easy for me to feel the emotions of the characters in her writing. I really liked how the spiritual truths were just part of the characters development and did not feel forceful or preachy in nature. Her writing is truly a gift! This is the type of book where characters and themes sit with you for months after finishing because the novel is so well written. I could go on and on about what I loved about this novel but suffice it to say it is well worth the read and highly recommended! I cannot wait to read her next book!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. Opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.

The Lost Boys of Barlowe Theater is just what I would expect from Jaime Jo Wright's novels. It was fabulous and I highly recommend it. Five stars.

As someone who typically gravitates towards a different genre, I approached "The Lost Boys of Barlowe Theater" with an open mind, intrigued by the promise of a gripping mystery set against the backdrop of a haunted theater. While the book undoubtedly delivered on its suspenseful premise, I feel my personal taste impacted my overall enjoyment.

The narrative, split between two timelines, weaves a complex web of ghostly secrets, disappearances, and a looming evil that haunts the Barlowe Theater. The author adeptly captures the eerie atmosphere and builds tension throughout, making it a compelling read for enthusiasts of supernatural mysteries.

The main characters, Greta Mercy and Kit Boyd, are well-developed and relatable, each driven by their own motivations to uncover the mysteries surrounding the theater. The unlikely partnership between Kit and the skeptical ghost-hunting host, Evan Fisher, adds an interesting dynamic to the story. I found myself enjoying Greta's story more than Kit's, as I so longed for her to find Leo, her missing brother. The ending for Kit was disappointing as she discovered that sometimes the ones you trust the most will take advantage of your friendship.

My 3.5 star rating stems from my personal preference for genres outside the supernatural thriller domain. While the story kept me engaged, I found myself less invested in the paranormal aspects and somewhat annoyed that a psychic was part of the story. This is more a matter of personal taste rather than a flaw in the storytelling itself. With that said, Jaime Jo Wright is a fabulous story teller and kept me guessing all the way to the end, and I do plan to read more of her books because of her ability to craft a story which I could not put down.

In conclusion, "The Lost Boys of Barlowe Theater" is a well-crafted thriller. Fans of ghostly mysteries will likely find it to be a captivating and chilling read, even if, as in my case, it's not your usual cup of tea.

Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book w/ no expectations/requests for a positive review.

Barlowe Theater stole Greta Mercy’s eldest brother during its construction. So when her younger brother vanishes within its walls after the final hammer has been silenced, Greta vows not to let the place rip another loved one from her life. With the help of a local police officer and some friends, Greta will descend to the very depths of Barlowe Theater to unravel its ghostly secrets.

Decades have passed, but ghouls still haunt the theater’s darkened tunnels. Any doubts of this fact evaporate when Kit Boyd’s best friend goes missing while leading a tour for a ghost-hunting television show. Desperate that her friend’s disappearance not become another on a long list of unexplainable occurrences, Kit has no alternative but to join forces with the show’s co-host and skeptic Evan Fischer.

Ghostly appearances and mind-bending happenings weave an eerie tale within the pages of The Lost Boys of Barlowe Theater. Known for her Scooby-Doo-like resolutions, this is one story that will have readers questioning if Jaime Jo Wright has crafted a mystery even she can’t explain.

After ten books, several of which I’ve read numerous times, one would think I could figure out the villains by now. If nothing else, I should at least know how the author’s brain works, right? Wrong! Sure, I uncover a twist here and there, a potential motive, even a culprit or two but without fail, she shocks me. For that reason, when I read The Lost Boys of Barlowe Theater, I suspected EVERY. SINGLE. CHARACTER. Okay, every single character … except one. I’m sure you know where this is going. Despite knowing better, I never doubted him/her for a second. It didn’t even cross my mind to doubt him/her. You can imagine the very real, very loud gasp that erupted from my throat when his/her true nature came to light.

I recommend this novel to readers who enjoy rich storyworlds, deep characterization, and eerie mysteries. New and old fans alike won’t be disappointed.

Addicting! I could not put it down. Sometimes I actually dread starting what might be a book outside of my comfort zone, but you guys, this is SO good. Jamie Jo Wright is masterful with both timelines in this story. I LOVED it, and could not stop turning pages.

The mystery in both timelines was excellent! In the 1915 timeline, poverty and powerlessness plays a big part in the story. In the Present Day timeline, we learn about how children who have been adopted even in loving homes, can suffer from insecurity. Both timelines have have questions, trials, and injustices, while working towards resolutions and peace. "The flames would come, and they would test you. There was no getting around a trial."

"Someone who saw value and precious worth in the people society too easily ignored. The human family was diverse, with broken people in every category . . . People were what mattered most. Not buildings. Not even history. The here. The now. The souls whom God let cross Kit's path to be impacted today so that in the future, their legacy would speak of healing and not brokenness. Of God and not a world alienated from its Creator, who wildly loved all people."

I HIGHLY recommend The Lost Boys of Barlowe Theater, it's SO good!

Thank you to the publisher and Net Galley for allowing me to read an ebook. I hope to add this to my keeper shelf someday!

The Lost Boys of Barlowe Theater
by Jaime Jo Wright
Pub Date 10 Oct 2023
Bethany House,Bethany House Publishers
Christian| Romance


Bethany House Publishers and Netgalley have provided me with a copy of The Lost Boys of Barlowe Theater for review:


Rather than bringing beauty, it steals life. Do the ghosts of Barlowe Theater intend to ensnare them all?




During the construction of Barlowe Theater, Greta Mercy's eldest brother was killed. In 1915, the completed theater appears every bit as deadly as it did then. After Greta's younger brother goes missing after breaking into the theater, she seeks out the assistance of a local police officer in order to uncover the theater's ghostly secrets. In order to save her family, Greta decides she must uncover the evil that haunts the theater in order to end its threat.


During a ghost walk at the Barlowe Theater, Kit Boyd's best friend disappears, and old stories of mysterious disappearances and ghoulish happenings are revived. Evan Fisher, a television ghost-hunting host and skeptic, joins Kit in his quest to uncover the truth about the theater's history. Kit reluctantly agrees to work with him in order to locate her missing friend. Kit is determined to end the curse that has marked the theater and their hometown for the last century as the theater's curse unravels her life.

I give The Lost Boys of Barlowe Theater five out of five stars!

Jaime Jo Wright is a master at a dual timeline suspense! From the construction of the Barlowe theatre in 1915 to present day, the author takes you on a suspenseful journey inside the depths of the theatre. The theatre has a history of tragedy and individuals that mysteriously disappear. From a sister who searches for her lost younger brother to a present-day disappearance during a ghost walk, the author leads you through the mysterious maze that is part of the dark side of the historical theatre.
The author has written nine other books and I have read and thoroughly enjoyed each and every one. I highly recommend any of her novels and they are all completely stand alone. One thing I really appreciate about the author is the fact that she is very clear about which timeline you are reading about and you are never left puzzling about which era you are reading about.
I purchased a copy of this book from Baker Book House and I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 Code of Federal Regulations, Part 255, Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.