Jaime Jo Wright, you are such a brilliant writer!
It is always a constant battle when it comes to deciding on whether to read Jaime Jo Wright’s novels or not. I start reading her novels with trepidation. Once I am done, however, I am asking myself which novel of hers should I read next.
Jaime Jo Wright’s novels are always riveting, and Specters in the Glass House is no exception. Set in dual times, the novel revolves around a house in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Müllerian Manor and the evil churning from the house. In 1921, an orphaned Marian Arnold moves to the remaining property of her father’s fallen legacy. What is meant to be a place of respite ends up being a place of secrets, whispers, and murder.
In present times, Mullerian Manor is now occupied by Elton Floyd, a biographer and his young research assistant, Remy Crenshaw. What is meant to be a simple task of writing about Marian Arnold ends up being one of murder, whispers, and shocking discoveries.
I enjoyed reading this novel. The writer has done an excellent work of blending mental health, fear, romance, prejudice, and family secrets into a thought-provoking novel. I do not know what fascination Jaime Jo Wright has with death as this book, like her other writings dances with the theme of death. I loved the romance between the main characters and the men in their lives. Overall, a great book to read.
I will highly recommend this book to the fans of Jaime Jo Wright, and to anyone out there who is tired of living in fear.
I received a complimentary copy courtesy of Bethany House through NetGalley and Interviews & Reviews for my honest opinion.

“Death was a fashionable thing. But admitting to others that you saw the dead regularly? That was not.”

I don't usually start with trigger warnings and I definitely don't want this to sound negative in any way, but due to the nature of this story I think it's only fair that certain readers know this book deals with mental health (namely, schizophrenia). Jaime Jo Wright deals very delicately on this topic, yet true to her style she also draws the reader right into the hearts and minds of her characters. Therefore, some scenes may be unsettling for some readers.

Alright disclaimer aside, this is my new favourite JJWright book. Hands down she is *the* author to tackle these kinds of topics and she always does so with so much grace and understanding. I have never personally met someone with schizophrenia, but Marian and this book truly bring to life an understanding of what used to be such a widely misunderstood disorder. Mental health often comes with stigma and Marian Arnold, heiress to a failing empire, was not shielded from that. That is, once she finally understands it herself.

Specters in the Glass House is a raw and beautiful and complex story that gripped me from the moment I picked it up. It is a beautiful reminder that while sin has tarnished this earthly world and our circumstances may be bleak, God makes no mistakes when He creates every human life.

“You have to choose to believe that when your world is shuttered and dark with unknown dangers, life is still worth fighting through. That God sees into it even when you don’t. That you’ll come out the other side with purpose.”

I will admit, this book is creepy. I read it in one sitting because I was too spooked to put it away without knowing how it ended. I don't know if I'll be able to look at a butterfly the same way again!

Like I said earlier, this is my new favourite. This book is so complex and its' characters so colourful. I highly recommend to anyone who loves a good thriller or murder mystery.

Content Notes:

- aside from the topic of mental health, this book also deals with a serial killer and his method of killing - strangulation. One chapter in particular, chapter 30, is definitely disturbing.
- other topics of importance: foster care + PTSD, & illegal drinking (during Prohibition)

I always enjoy this author’s work (with only a couple of exceptions) and this one was not a disappointment! Since Jaime Jo Wright has more than a dozen novels published, I’d say this one reminded me most of The Cliffs above Foxglove Manor.
As usual, it’s a dual timeline novel, with one part set in the 1920s during Prohibition and one part set in the present day. I found the details about the social and economic impact of Prohibition in some parts of the United States interesting.

As with some of Ms Wright’s other books, this one dives into matters surrounding mental health, but I think it is done very sympathetically here. Felix, the hero from the 1920s timeline has a limb difference and what would now be recognized as PTSD from the First World war, and Marian’s mother seems to have struggled with post-Natal depression or schizophrenia. At that time, such conditions were misunderstood and feared, playing into the plot about a serial killer.

Even in the part that’s set today, the book raises some relevant questions. I think one part said that even though we claim to be destigmatizing mental health it is still treated as some kind of entertainment in the media, and people who have many conditions are treated negatively.
The ending was unexpected and genuinely sweet. Sometimes it feels contrived but not in this case. If you want to get into this author’s work you can start with any book, but this is one of those I’d recommend.

Thanks to Bethany House for approving me for this title. This did not influence my opinions which are entirely my own and freely provided.

Always a favorite author, Jaime Jo Wright delivers a perfectly mysterious, deliciously suspenseful new release!

With a captivating dual-timeline featuring both past and present, Wright wrapped me up in the emotional, perplexing murders of Mullerian Manor during the time of Prohibition and current day, unfolding this story one layer at a time. As residents encounter the puzzling history of the home, Wright weaves a tale of tragedy, family and faith.

With brilliantly crafted characters, Wright tugged on my heartstrings while simultaneously giving me goosebumps, enticing me with murder in a manor shrouded in mystery. There are interwoven, delicately-handled threads of life in foster care, loss, mental illness and loneliness, as well as a hint of love and romance which I loved! This book was everything I've come to know and love about Wright's books and it's a definite recommendation from me!

*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. All thoughts are my own and I was not required to post a positive review.

Jaime Jo Wright has quickly become one of my favorite authors. I can always count on her for a well-crafted story that stays with me long after I finish reading.

The dual timelines, one set in 1921 during Prohibition and the other in the present, are easy to follow. This novel blends family drama with mystery, romance, and a touch of the supernatural. There were moments that sent chills down my spine as I questioned what was real and what wasn't. This story plays tricks on the mind, just like it does with its characters. The "Butterfly Butcher" is a key figure in both timelines, adding a haunting atmosphere to the story.

Wright also tackles mental health issues with empathy and care. She portrays these struggles realistically, showing how they impact both the individual and their loved ones. The mysteries in each timeline deliver surprising twists while still providing satisfying resolutions.

Specters in the Glass House will keep you on the edge of your seat, eager for more from this talented author.

Another suspenseful must read by a talented author! I am always amazed at the masterful way the author weaves two seemingly completely different storylines together. I seriously cannot read fast enough as the plots begin to converge in the most delightful way! I had such a hard time putting down the book as I wanted to know the ends of both of the stories; the suspense was killing me! The dark twists in this story are complimented by the hope that emerges by the end. I also always appreciate how this author is not afraid to tackle the heavier topics in history and in current times; in this case, foster care, mental illness, and the need for acceptance. The depth to which she explores these topics is so well done. I will never stop reading Jaime Jo Wright’s books for each one has been so good! Highly recommended!

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

In this dual timeline, Marian Arnold, a brewery heiress whose family lost everything due to Prohibition, is determined to discover the secrets behind her mysterious mother’s death. In the present day, Remy Crenshaw is a research assistant to famous author Elton Floyd, and they are housed in the summer home that formerly belonged to Marion Arnold and her mother before her.

Exciting, action packed, and a captivating read!

You should read this is you enjoy, dual timelines, dual POV, mental health advocacy, romance, haunted house vibes.

Thank you to the publisher and Net galley for the ARC!

Another slightly creepy Jaime Jo Wright book, and I finally had time to read it! (from start to finish - in basically one setting!!)
Two timelines, but I liked the contemporary one best.
Remy has been hired as a research assistant for a famous novelist, one who writes true crime stories. But...she has to go stay at one of the creepiest places ever - where the Butterfly Butcher killed various individuals, and was never caught.
There is so much going on, it sure feels like a real ghost story.
But, as always, JJW has a way of making it all make sense when you finally get to the end.
I won't say I didn't get creeped out though!
Exciting, action packed, and a captivating read!
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

I have loved all the books by this author that I’ve read. I loved the setting and vibes from this story. And those twists!

Read this one if you like dual timeline suspense, spooky and mysterious reads.

3.5 stars. This was mostly good, but it was hard to like Marian, when she was so weak and oblivious to things going on in her life. It wasn't until the very end that she grew/changed, so her chapters were sometimes slow and repetitive. Still, there was enough in that timeline necessary to the other story that I kept reading it. And Remy's POV was more compelling, with more going on, so it kept the pace from getting too slow for too long. I liked the rest of the characters, though I would have liked Elton developed a bit better, especially by the end. I would definitely try more by this author.

Loved this story! Jaime Jo Wright tells a heartbreaking tale filled with murder, specters and shadows in the dark. She does a great job at sharing the story of two women separated by time who find themselves in similar situations. I loved the connections and how the story wrapped up at the very end. I never would have guessed what was going on, and only Jaime Jo Wright can twist a story to make your mind twist in every which way.

*trigger warning for mental illness.

*thank you to Bethany House and #NetGalley for a complimentary copy of this book to read. All thoughts are my own.

“It is all right to be afraid…“It’s what we do with that fear that’s important. What we allow it to shape us into.”

Specters in the Glass House by Jaime Jo Wright carries some heavier themes than some of her other books. In this dual timeline, Marian Arnold, a brewery heiress whose family lost everything due to Prohibition,is determined to discover the secrets behind her mysterious mother’s death. In the present day, Remy Crenshaw is a research assistant to famous author Elton Floyd, and they are housed in the summer home that formerly belonged to Marion Arnold and her mother before her.

Ghosts, alcohol, hearing voices, murders and near murders, beautiful butterflies used for nefarious purposes, a resurgence of the Butterfly Butcher years after he went quiet, lends to a great spooky atmosphere. An undertone of need is created in some of the characters as we see abject fear, a need for acceptance unfulfilled, a foster child who is seen in only a stereo-typical, negative way.

Fortunately, Wright also includes Hope in her stories. When Remy asks if her faith is just blindly acceptance, Abigail replies “Not blind. No. Just belief. Belief in the evidence God has given us of His existence. Belief in the personal experiences I’ve already had—the blessings. Belief that, in the end, He will make all things good.”

I found it quite interesting in reading the prologue and author’s notes that the author mentions the Frederick Meijer Gardens butterfly house in Grand Rapids. Having been there, the picture o the front of the book took me there immediately. It is interesting how Jamie Jo Wright can take something so beautiful ( a butterfly house) and use it as a thing of evil and fear. But isn’t that exactly what the enemy does so often in our lives? Things that should be beautiful turn into things that destroy us.

I don’t think I‘ve ever been caught off guard by Wright’s sense of humor before. I just don’t remember it poking its head up at crazy, desperate times. Just a pinch, like salt in a cookie recipe. Enough to off-set the heavy Gothic vibes. With the amount of heebie- jeebies that Wright’s words can produce, the humor is a welcome mini-reprieve before the next big scare.

I am still mulling over the issues some of the characters present. These issues keep them from being accepted in society in the historical story, yet I have to wonder how much more acceptance and understanding is typically offered in today’s society.

I received a copy of the book from the author and publisher through NetGalley. I also bought my own copy for the keeper shelf. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.

Notable Quotables:

“Ambrose tapped Remy’s shoulder just over her heart. “And there’s a lot of good in there. I think it’s been protected. I think God has something bigger for you in mind.” Remy looked down at her hands in her lap. “I don’t know how to find it.” Ambrose was quiet for a moment, and then she answered, “He finds you, Remy. In the chaos, He finds you.””

“You’re richer for the pain, for the fear. In its twisted agony, God makes it so that life becomes deeper, more meaningful, and you can look into your future and hear the voices of the generations to come and ask yourself, What will I leave behind for them? Fear?… Or faith?” Felix took a sip of his water, then breathed deeply. “I chose faith—even though I’m still very much afraid most days.”

“Sometimes coffee really was all a person had to make the bad feel a little bit better.”

“Yes. Death was a fashionable thing. But admitting to others that you saw the dead regularly?That was not.”

Every time, y’all. Every. Single. Time, I pick up a Jaime Jo Wright book I say to myself optimistically, “This time, Carrie. THIS time you’re going to figure it out before she reveals the secrets.” Spoiler alert – I failed again while reading Specters in the Glass House, and I loved every minute of it! Because I love a book that surprises me. I remain in awe of Wright’s talent in telling a dynamic and atmospheric story that so completely immerses me in the setting and the secrets that I cannot possibly put it down until I’ve reached the last word.

The plot in both timelines – 1920s and present day – centers around a manor with a disturbing history. In fact, the longer we linger there, the more deliciously creepy the eccentric house becomes no matter whether we’re in the past or present iteration. Rooms no one else knows about. People no one else sees. Whispers no one else hears. Dead butterflies left to mark the bodies of those whose lives were taken from them. Who can be trusted? With each layer uncovered of Marian’s story (the events we see from her own perspective as well as what we learn from Remy’s present day research), I fully embraced the gothic ‘ghost story’ feel and let my mind whir with possibilities… even as I knew there would be a logical explanation that would at once stun me and make everything make sense. And it did. And I loved it.

Bottom Line: Ohhhhhhh Specters in the Glass House by Jaime Jo Wright is the perfect read for this time of year – spooky and haunting and suspenseful. The manor setting, complete with its glass house of butterflies, adds all sorts of shivery vibes in the 1920s and in the present day – the perfect place for a tale like this to be told. Remy, Tate, Marian, Felix, and the endearingly gruff Elton easily grabbed my affection and further cemented my investment in this story, even though… ok, I still wasn’t sure I could let my guard down around any of them because this is not my first Jaime Jo Wright book, y’all. But I did always know this for certain – you will find them all just as captivating as I did. There’s actually still so much I want to gush about, but I’m trying to be sooooo careful not to spoil the thrill of discovery for you. Suffice it to say, though, that Jaime Jo Wright continues to write brilliantly and from a heart of compassion as she entertains us, yes, but also as she explores the nuanced intricacies of life and, in so doing, shines a beautiful light into the darkness.

(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book

What a gripping tale! This dual timeline was masterfully woven into a story I could not put down! The characters are real, and relatable, the mystery is addicting, and the story is inspirational. Kudos to Author Jaime Jo Wright for another edge-of-your-seat, creepy, yet hopeful story!

"You are wanted" is an important theme in this story of dysfunctional family dynamics, mental illness, and loving people. I absolutely loved while things were happening in real time during the prohibition, the people in the present day were trying to figure it all out. Both timelines kept me guessing!

Thank you to the publisher and Net galley for allowing me to read an early copy. All opinions are my own.

Jaime Jo Wright is back with her best yet! She continues to fascinate me with her ability to craft the most amazing and touching stories.

After both of her parents pass away, Marian Arnold returns to her childhood home and her mother’s butterfly house. In 1921, prohibition shut down her family’s brewing empire and left Marian with very little. Shortly after she returns home, Marian starts having nightmares and wonders if she is going crazy as dead butterflies appear along with a dead body in the butterfly house. Marian finds solace in her childhood friend Felix who is also dealing with ghosts from his past. Together they must work past the ghosts and butterflies to find a future.

In the present-day timeline, Remy Shaw is a researcher coming to help an elderly biographer looking into the murders and mystery behind Marian Arnold and all that happened at the manor. One of Marian’s decedents shows up at the manor wanting to make sure the story is told correctly. But mystery and danger haven’t strayed far from the manor and yet another generation might be in for more than can take.

Jaime Jo Wright gets better with each novel and this newest one is no exception. I have loved all of her books but this one was by far the best. When you think of butterflies, the next step is not serial killers and ghosts. The dual timeline is something Wright has just about perfected after so many books and she does it better than almost anyone else. It doesn’t matter if it is the past or present timeline, I found myself connected with the characters and the storyline. Usually, a story with a historical timeline is not my “cup of tea” but when Wright is creating the story I know I’m going to connect with the story and characters. If I can connect with characters, then I am hooked into the story till the end. This is the kind of story that is perfect timing coming out right around Halloween. I would recommend this story to readers that love a little spooky with their romantic suspense but also just a fantastic story with great characters.

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

Unfortunately, I DNF'd this novel about 10% into the book. I'm not the biggest fan of books taking place in a historical time period such as the 1920's, so maybe that's just my own personal issue, but there wasn't enough to keep me hooked in the first few chapters to want to invest more of my time into it. For the right audience, this book would likely be a hit, but personally, I'm just not into this type of work. :(

I believe this was my first book I’ve read by Jaime and it most definitely will not be my last! I loved how this story played out and how we got to see the dual timelines flip back and forth with the same characters involved. I also love that Marian’s great great grandson was included in the present day timeline within the mysterious case. There were surprises I didn’t even guess, which I ADORE that aspect in any suspenseful novel, and I loved the feel I got of seeing the light through the darkness.

This gothic suspense story was entertaining and inspiring albeit eerie and ominous I found the lessons in it thought provoking. I’m pulled toward writing thats poetic and atmospheric and Wright certainly succeeded in gripping my attention. The familial drama and instances where the characters trauma bonded was so well done. Showcasing them struggling to have faith regardless of fear truly spoke to me. I loved the inclusion of the “ You are wanted” affirmation I feel that so many of us deserve to hear that or be reminded of that notion more. Overall, a solid gothic story with interesting characters and a strong faith message.

Read this is you enjoy,
Dual Timelines
Dual POV
Gothic stories set in October
Mental Health advocacy

Thank you @jaimejowright @bethanyhousefiction @austenprose for the gifted copies for the tour.

Jaime Jo Wright will forever be one of my favorite authors--she knows how to write stories that give you goosebumps and move you emotionally in unexpected ways. Specters in the Glass House was both of those things, and I especially loved the disability rep in the story.

While I didn't really love the present day timeline for various reasons, the past timeline was really engaging and I really connected with the characters and was invested in the mystery aspect of the story.

4/5 from me!

I know I can never go wrong with a Jaime Jo Wright book, and this one was no exception. I loved the mystery and thriller aspects of the book and was quickly absorbed by the story. As always, Wright writes a book that is based on Christian ideals and yet also has ghosts, monsters, and things that creep in the night. It is, of course, all explained at the end, and I love how she does it!