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Tempest at Annabel's Lighthouse
In 1874, a battered woman awakens atop a forgotten gravesite by Lake Superior. Identified only by the locket around her neck inscribed with the name Rebecca, she seeks refuge with an elderly lighthouse keeper named Edgar. But as Rebecca struggles to remember who she is, she finds herself haunted by the lingering memories of Annabel, a mysterious woman who perished in the unforgiving waves of Lake Superior years earlier. With the spirit of Annabel seemingly reawakened, and an unknown adversary on the hunt to silence Rebecca once and for all, there is more at stake than just reclaiming her own memories. Rebecca must reclaim Annabel's as well.
In the present day, author and researcher Shea Radclyffe escapes to the lighthouse outside a historic mining town in Michigan, seeking clarity about her failing marriage. Instantly drawn to the lighthouse's landlord, Shea contends with the vengeful legend of Annabel's ghost and a superstitious community that has buried the secrets surrounding a decade-old murder. As the secrets harbored around Annabel's lighthouse unravel, Shea must navigate a fight of torn loyalty, self-discovery, and the haunting forces of love and a vengeance that should have drowned a century before.
An acclaimed "expert in her element" (Booklist), Jaime Jo Wright once again delivers a bone-chilling dual-time suspense novel that will leave readers turning the pages all night long.
In the present day, author and researcher Shea Radclyffe escapes to the lighthouse outside a historic mining town in Michigan, seeking clarity about her failing marriage. Instantly drawn to the lighthouse's landlord, Shea contends with the vengeful legend of Annabel's ghost and a superstitious community that has buried the secrets surrounding a decade-old murder. As the secrets harbored around Annabel's lighthouse unravel, Shea must navigate a fight of torn loyalty, self-discovery, and the haunting forces of love and a vengeance that should have drowned a century before.
An acclaimed "expert in her element" (Booklist), Jaime Jo Wright once again delivers a bone-chilling dual-time suspense novel that will leave readers turning the pages all night long.
343 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 1, 2025
64 people are currently reading
5211 people want to read
About the author
Jaime Jo Wright
29 books2,374 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 200 reviews
November 13, 2025
Tempest at Annabel's Lighthouse by Jaime Jo Wright
4 Stars
Another great autumnal read from Jaime Jo Wright! A very haunting book starting out on the shores of Lake Superior into a dual timeline mystery to present day......a very emotionally charged book. The ending TOOK ME OUT. I did NOT see that coming. We follow Rebecca who is a battered woman in 1874 who wakes up with no idea of her past. Then we follow Shea in modern day who is an author seeking refuge from her crumbling marriage. Both women find themselves drawn to the isolated lighthouse with a lingering presence of Annabel.
This had a theme of gothic suspense because you have a tie in with Edgar Allen Poe as it's inspired by Edgar Allen Poe's haunting poem of Annabel Lee. I loved that because I knew nothing of Edgar Allen Poe and it caused me to research a bit about the history of that poem.
I can't say a ton because I don't want to spoil anything, but wow, what an ending.
Trigger warning: suicide mentions, harassment, semi-detailed violence, abuse and death.
4 Stars
Another great autumnal read from Jaime Jo Wright! A very haunting book starting out on the shores of Lake Superior into a dual timeline mystery to present day......a very emotionally charged book. The ending TOOK ME OUT. I did NOT see that coming. We follow Rebecca who is a battered woman in 1874 who wakes up with no idea of her past. Then we follow Shea in modern day who is an author seeking refuge from her crumbling marriage. Both women find themselves drawn to the isolated lighthouse with a lingering presence of Annabel.
This had a theme of gothic suspense because you have a tie in with Edgar Allen Poe as it's inspired by Edgar Allen Poe's haunting poem of Annabel Lee. I loved that because I knew nothing of Edgar Allen Poe and it caused me to research a bit about the history of that poem.
I can't say a ton because I don't want to spoil anything, but wow, what an ending.
Trigger warning: suicide mentions, harassment, semi-detailed violence, abuse and death.
April 29, 2025
loved that ending!
Trigger warning:
mention of suicide
Trigger warning:
mention of suicide
February 24, 2025
Writer Jaime Jo is an expert at taking the reader to the edge and then walking them back. Each time she makes me argue with the book, "ghosts are not real" with the characters asking, "Are you sure." Which makes for a book I hate to lay down when it is time to do things like going to work or anything else actually.
I love spending time with Wright's characters because of the shiver factor. They are characters I want to know and yet not really because some of them are creepy.
I don't recommend reading this one in a light house as there is sure to be a squeaky stair to keep you awake. No matter where you read, you will want to have the light on.
I love spending time with Wright's characters because of the shiver factor. They are characters I want to know and yet not really because some of them are creepy.
I don't recommend reading this one in a light house as there is sure to be a squeaky stair to keep you awake. No matter where you read, you will want to have the light on.
February 12, 2025
Thank you to Bethany House and Jaime Jo Wright for this #gifted book!*
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Title: Tempest at Annabel’s Lighthouse
Author: Jaime Jo Wright
Genre: Mystery/Suspense
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Synopsis: Just outside the quiet town of Silvertown, Michigan, Annabel’s lighthouse has become something of legend and lore. Some would even venture to say it’s haunted. As a nonfiction author, Shea is intrigued by the mystery and history surrounding the lighthouse. She books a trip to the supposedly haunted location in the name of research and escaping what feels like a failing marriage. The history she begins to uncover reveals that Annabel’s ghost has a story to tell. Perhaps love isn’t always what it seems. Can Shea fill in the gaps of Annabel’s past, find peace in her present, and foresee hope in her future?
Analysis: Jaime Jo Wright brings the perfect Agatha Christie type mystery in this dual timeline suspense novel. She really has mastered creepy without being horror, and I absolutely loved it! The setting here of the lighthouse is different than you probably think of lighthouses and provides the perfect setting for a mystery of love and loss. The plot will have you flying through the pages and rushing to find whodunnit in the end. And the characters will grip your heart as they look at the deeper questions of who they are and what love really is. Perhaps the thing I love most about Jaime’s books is that they end with the light shining bright. Just like the lighthouse in this story, Jaime shines brilliantly with the hope and love we can find in truth even in the darkness.
Star Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
*I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Title: Tempest at Annabel’s Lighthouse
Author: Jaime Jo Wright
Genre: Mystery/Suspense
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Synopsis: Just outside the quiet town of Silvertown, Michigan, Annabel’s lighthouse has become something of legend and lore. Some would even venture to say it’s haunted. As a nonfiction author, Shea is intrigued by the mystery and history surrounding the lighthouse. She books a trip to the supposedly haunted location in the name of research and escaping what feels like a failing marriage. The history she begins to uncover reveals that Annabel’s ghost has a story to tell. Perhaps love isn’t always what it seems. Can Shea fill in the gaps of Annabel’s past, find peace in her present, and foresee hope in her future?
Analysis: Jaime Jo Wright brings the perfect Agatha Christie type mystery in this dual timeline suspense novel. She really has mastered creepy without being horror, and I absolutely loved it! The setting here of the lighthouse is different than you probably think of lighthouses and provides the perfect setting for a mystery of love and loss. The plot will have you flying through the pages and rushing to find whodunnit in the end. And the characters will grip your heart as they look at the deeper questions of who they are and what love really is. Perhaps the thing I love most about Jaime’s books is that they end with the light shining bright. Just like the lighthouse in this story, Jaime shines brilliantly with the hope and love we can find in truth even in the darkness.
Star Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
*I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
June 2, 2025
Inspired by Edgar Allen Poe's haunting poem of Annabel Lee, Jaime Jo Wright has penned a cautionary tale of greed, obsession, and the havoc wrought by selfish hearts.
In this dual time novel, the Mistress of the Macabre takes readers on a harrowing stroll along the tempestuous shores of Lake Superior, Michigan's Porcupine Mountains looming in the distance, while she recounts the mysterious history of an eerie lighthouse shrouded in ghostly lore.
Weaving the suspenseful anticipation of an oncoming storm and the emotional tumult of a raging downpour, Wright is sure to keep readers entranced until her story's jaw-dropping conclusion.
If you're fascinated by thunderstorms and unsolved mysteries, board up and brace yourself for the Tempest at Annabel's Lighthouse!
In this dual time novel, the Mistress of the Macabre takes readers on a harrowing stroll along the tempestuous shores of Lake Superior, Michigan's Porcupine Mountains looming in the distance, while she recounts the mysterious history of an eerie lighthouse shrouded in ghostly lore.
Weaving the suspenseful anticipation of an oncoming storm and the emotional tumult of a raging downpour, Wright is sure to keep readers entranced until her story's jaw-dropping conclusion.
If you're fascinated by thunderstorms and unsolved mysteries, board up and brace yourself for the Tempest at Annabel's Lighthouse!
April 17, 2025
Oh my… definitely my new favorite JJW book. Easily the best book I’ve read all year. Wow oh wow…
April 9, 2025
I have no idea how to write a review for this book. How do you review a book that has profoundly touched you? A book that has made you look at yourself through a not so nice lens?
I am Shea. But I'm also Pete. I suppose all of us are to a point...
And oh, goodness. I'm not reviewing the book.
The book deeply touched me. The thread from the past as well as the present. Emotions ran deep, the storylines were impeccable, and your mouth *may* even fall open.
This is how a book should be written.
~I was given a complimentary copy of this book. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.~
I am Shea. But I'm also Pete. I suppose all of us are to a point...
And oh, goodness. I'm not reviewing the book.
The book deeply touched me. The thread from the past as well as the present. Emotions ran deep, the storylines were impeccable, and your mouth *may* even fall open.
This is how a book should be written.
~I was given a complimentary copy of this book. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.~
November 22, 2025
Who else but Jaime Jo Wright could write such a suspenseful ghost story as Tempest at Annabel’s Lighthouse inspired quite obviously by Edgar Allen Poe’s moving and mysterious love poem Annabel Lee? Who, indeed? I wasn’t sure about this one when I first started reading, thinking maybe Ms. Wright had finally let me down, but I should also know by now that it is impossible for the woman to write a stinker. Rich and detailed, Tempest is a constantly changing story set in the rugged Upper Peninsula of Michigan along a storm-tossed lake, and though some details were obvious from the beginning (at least to me), it was the slow unfolding of the story that was most enjoyable, not the revealing of the secrets dispersed throughout. Although, unless I missed it, Ms. Wright did leave some questions unanswered, in the same vein as Edgar Allen Poe did himself with his original poem. And that is okay. We all need a little unanswered mysteries in our lives! A thoroughly enjoyable read. Highly recommended!
April 5, 2025
4.5 stars, rounded up for Goodreads
My Quick Takes:
- 4.5/5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
- Language 🤐 none
- Spice ❤️🔥 none
- Content 🤔 struggling marriage, murder, abuse, past child abuse
Jaime Jo Wright weaves a tale filled with lore and legend threading through to modern day. Set in a small town that won’t give up its secrets (in the past or present) the reader is left guessing as the strings slowly unravel.
I really enjoyed the dual timeline of modern day and past 1800’s mining town. The treasure hunting boom was a fun aspect of the story. I always appreciate a redemption arc and love that Wright’s novels continue to carry that theme, along with very light faith themes.
While I’m not familiar with Edgar Allan Poe’s poem “Annabel Lee” I liked the added quotes and inspiration Wright drew from the poem and included throughout the narrative.
My Quick Takes:
- 4.5/5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
- Language 🤐 none
- Spice ❤️🔥 none
- Content 🤔 struggling marriage, murder, abuse, past child abuse
Jaime Jo Wright weaves a tale filled with lore and legend threading through to modern day. Set in a small town that won’t give up its secrets (in the past or present) the reader is left guessing as the strings slowly unravel.
I really enjoyed the dual timeline of modern day and past 1800’s mining town. The treasure hunting boom was a fun aspect of the story. I always appreciate a redemption arc and love that Wright’s novels continue to carry that theme, along with very light faith themes.
While I’m not familiar with Edgar Allan Poe’s poem “Annabel Lee” I liked the added quotes and inspiration Wright drew from the poem and included throughout the narrative.
March 31, 2025
Shea Raddclyffe journeyed to the Upper Peninsula of Michigan on the shores of Lake Superior to stay at lighthouse whose history is steeped in legend. She is researching a book and delves into the mysterious background of Annabel and her lighthouse. She is also seeking to put distance between her and her husband Pete, and contemplating why they have grown apart.
The more she digs into the details, the more mysterious it gets, especially when she discovers information about a lady named Rebecca that nobody wants to talk about. Information that leads to a recent mysterious death and subsequent danger for Shae and Pete.
The author seamlessly weaves two timelines together with poetic language that causes the reader to think on relationships and the consequences of selfish actions. But she also points to selfless love and commitment.
“Sometimes steady was comforting.
Sometimes mundane was reliable
Sometimes always-there was the most romantic thing anyone could ever be for someone.”
This was an absolutely stunning novel that had me mesmerized by the legend of Annabel and the danger surrounding Shea as she took a closer look at the mystery.
*A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Bethany House through Interviews and Reviews. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.*
The more she digs into the details, the more mysterious it gets, especially when she discovers information about a lady named Rebecca that nobody wants to talk about. Information that leads to a recent mysterious death and subsequent danger for Shae and Pete.
The author seamlessly weaves two timelines together with poetic language that causes the reader to think on relationships and the consequences of selfish actions. But she also points to selfless love and commitment.
“Sometimes steady was comforting.
Sometimes mundane was reliable
Sometimes always-there was the most romantic thing anyone could ever be for someone.”
This was an absolutely stunning novel that had me mesmerized by the legend of Annabel and the danger surrounding Shea as she took a closer look at the mystery.
*A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Bethany House through Interviews and Reviews. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.*
April 29, 2025
“She was here. At Annabel’s Lighthouse. The infamous haunted lighthouse of Silvertown.”
“Let Annabel lie in peace, for pity’s sake. She’s already a tempest that can’t be silenced.”
“Horror can erase love. It can make love drown beneath its weight…Sometimes love has to be rescued, and sometimes it’s simply too late.”
Another winner from Jaime Jo Wright. I’m not sure how she writes 2 great books a year, but I am glad she does. Sometimes her books start off as a slow burn that goes full flame about halfway through the book; Tempest At Annabel’s Lighthouse, however, delivers from the first page and never looks back. I devoured the pages and I thought it was one of her most readable books. Not sure if that is true or if I was in such a reading slump that this book easily pulled me out of it.
The characters in this book were certainly interesting. Rebecca in the past timeline with amnesia had a great storyline in the lighthouse with lighthouse keepers Edgar and Abel. And Shea in the present timeline as a writer in the lighthouse owned by Holt was also interesting as she explored the lighthouse’s and area’s history. I also appreciated the storyline with her quiet husband Pete and thought it felt almost too realistic!
This is a great mystery. As I often do with books like these, I guessed part of it while a nice chunk of it was a great surprise. Highly recommend this book and looking forward to the next Jaime Jo Wright book!
“Let Annabel lie in peace, for pity’s sake. She’s already a tempest that can’t be silenced.”
“Horror can erase love. It can make love drown beneath its weight…Sometimes love has to be rescued, and sometimes it’s simply too late.”
Another winner from Jaime Jo Wright. I’m not sure how she writes 2 great books a year, but I am glad she does. Sometimes her books start off as a slow burn that goes full flame about halfway through the book; Tempest At Annabel’s Lighthouse, however, delivers from the first page and never looks back. I devoured the pages and I thought it was one of her most readable books. Not sure if that is true or if I was in such a reading slump that this book easily pulled me out of it.
The characters in this book were certainly interesting. Rebecca in the past timeline with amnesia had a great storyline in the lighthouse with lighthouse keepers Edgar and Abel. And Shea in the present timeline as a writer in the lighthouse owned by Holt was also interesting as she explored the lighthouse’s and area’s history. I also appreciated the storyline with her quiet husband Pete and thought it felt almost too realistic!
This is a great mystery. As I often do with books like these, I guessed part of it while a nice chunk of it was a great surprise. Highly recommend this book and looking forward to the next Jaime Jo Wright book!
August 4, 2025
A gothic mystery filled with surprises.
I think this one had one of the most twisty endings in Jaime Jo Wright's books. I loved the setting of the lighthouse and the mysterious goings on. The historical time period was my favorite but I really enjoyed the romance in the contemporary timeline.
The character of Pete was a great point of view of the quiet man showing love by actions instead of words. Shea and Pete's relationship and how they had to learn each other's love language had me falling in love with them.
*thank you to the publisher for a complimentary copy. All thoughts are my own.
I think this one had one of the most twisty endings in Jaime Jo Wright's books. I loved the setting of the lighthouse and the mysterious goings on. The historical time period was my favorite but I really enjoyed the romance in the contemporary timeline.
The character of Pete was a great point of view of the quiet man showing love by actions instead of words. Shea and Pete's relationship and how they had to learn each other's love language had me falling in love with them.
*thank you to the publisher for a complimentary copy. All thoughts are my own.
July 27, 2025
This was an intriguing story as I kept going back to it when I could as I was curious. The suspence and tangly situations had me wondering who and what was behind it all. I wanted to know a wee bit more about the historical couple; what their child was and who sired who etc I was surprised by a "who" at the end which is probably how it should be; with readers trying to guess.
My favourite aspect however was the reconciling and restoration of a couple....their heartfelt talks with communication/realizations in a sense made me feel so pleased even though I know yes, it's fiction! A great story as usual with this author.
My favourite aspect however was the reconciling and restoration of a couple....their heartfelt talks with communication/realizations in a sense made me feel so pleased even though I know yes, it's fiction! A great story as usual with this author.
Want to read
July 19, 2024Can't wait to get my hands on and read this!
Here is the publisher pre-order link where this book is 40% off w/free shipping:
https://bakerbookhouse.com/products/5...
Here is the publisher pre-order link where this book is 40% off w/free shipping:
https://bakerbookhouse.com/products/5...
April 8, 2025
Loved every page.
August 21, 2025
Gah, this was so good! My favorite book by this author. I loved the lighthouse setting, the mystery, the haunting tones. And that ending.....what???
This book was perfection!
This book was perfection!
Read
April 14, 2025rtc this one was really dark
April 11, 2025
OVERALL STAR RATING: 5/5
CLEAN RATING: 5/5
If you haven’t tried out a Jaime Jo Wright book yet, what are you waiting for!? This woman is a MASTER at her craft. Every single book will blow your mind. Hauntingly atmospheric, riveting dual timeline plots, and reveals at the end that will always make your jaw drop. I never see what’s coming and I just love that her stories keep me guessing from start to finish. I can’t even compare her to any other author out there. She’s in a class all on her own.
In 1874 a woman by the name of Rebecca wakes up battered and bruised, lying atop a gravestone without any memory of who she is. She winds up being cared for by keepers of the nearby lighthouse on Lake Superior. There are stories of the mysterious Annabel who died in the lake years before and who is said to still haunt the area. Rebecca’s journey of putting back together the puzzle pieces of her past, while simultaneously grappling with the lore of Annabel’s ghost will have you immediately absorbed in the story.
In the present-day timeline, author Shea Radclyffe travels off to the historic lighthouse to research her next book. She immediately begins hearing and “experiencing” the legend of Annabel’s ghost. There are layers upon layers of secrets rooted in Annabel’s family and disappearance. She has so much to unravel and discover within the history of the lighthouse and the landlord that is still there – all while trying to navigate the reality of her crumbling marriage. When her husband, Pete, unexpectedly shows up at the lighthouse one day, it’s almost too much for Shea to handle. The realistic nature of their marriage struggles was not something you too often read about in books like this. I loved the way it really put a microscope on the topic. It will certainly cause you to pause and reflect on your life and think about what improvements you can make in your own personal relationships.
As these stories always go…there’s not much more I can say without giving away spoilers. If you’re up for a hauntingly mysterious novel that’s full of sorrow, pain, but also beauty and hope, then this one is for you.
*For more reviews and bookish content, be sure to follow me on Instagram @aliciasbooksanctuary
CLEAN RATING: 5/5
If you haven’t tried out a Jaime Jo Wright book yet, what are you waiting for!? This woman is a MASTER at her craft. Every single book will blow your mind. Hauntingly atmospheric, riveting dual timeline plots, and reveals at the end that will always make your jaw drop. I never see what’s coming and I just love that her stories keep me guessing from start to finish. I can’t even compare her to any other author out there. She’s in a class all on her own.
In 1874 a woman by the name of Rebecca wakes up battered and bruised, lying atop a gravestone without any memory of who she is. She winds up being cared for by keepers of the nearby lighthouse on Lake Superior. There are stories of the mysterious Annabel who died in the lake years before and who is said to still haunt the area. Rebecca’s journey of putting back together the puzzle pieces of her past, while simultaneously grappling with the lore of Annabel’s ghost will have you immediately absorbed in the story.
In the present-day timeline, author Shea Radclyffe travels off to the historic lighthouse to research her next book. She immediately begins hearing and “experiencing” the legend of Annabel’s ghost. There are layers upon layers of secrets rooted in Annabel’s family and disappearance. She has so much to unravel and discover within the history of the lighthouse and the landlord that is still there – all while trying to navigate the reality of her crumbling marriage. When her husband, Pete, unexpectedly shows up at the lighthouse one day, it’s almost too much for Shea to handle. The realistic nature of their marriage struggles was not something you too often read about in books like this. I loved the way it really put a microscope on the topic. It will certainly cause you to pause and reflect on your life and think about what improvements you can make in your own personal relationships.
As these stories always go…there’s not much more I can say without giving away spoilers. If you’re up for a hauntingly mysterious novel that’s full of sorrow, pain, but also beauty and hope, then this one is for you.
*For more reviews and bookish content, be sure to follow me on Instagram @aliciasbooksanctuary
October 2, 2025
It took me a while to get my hands on this, and when I finally started it, I had to exercise extreme self control to not read through the night and just finish it.
There are deliciously creepy moments, of course. A great dual-timeline mystery.
I was pleasantly surprised by Shea’s story. I’m trying to decide what to say that won’t be spoilers. The message, while not intrinsically spiritual, was a good one for our modern world. I honestly didn’t expect it to pan out like it did.
There is one scene that makes me hesitate whether this is clean or not, as it goes through the actions of a rape (non-explicitly, but still). It would be an easy scene to skip, as it’s evident when she remembers and that part is in italics.
There are deliciously creepy moments, of course. A great dual-timeline mystery.
I was pleasantly surprised by Shea’s story. I’m trying to decide what to say that won’t be spoilers. The message, while not intrinsically spiritual, was a good one for our modern world. I honestly didn’t expect it to pan out like it did.
There is one scene that makes me hesitate whether this is clean or not, as it goes through the actions of a rape (non-explicitly, but still). It would be an easy scene to skip, as it’s evident when she remembers and that part is in italics.
November 25, 2025
Tempest at Annabel's Lighthouse is one of those books that is hard to review. So, I am just going to give my incoherent thoughts.
fast-paced
suspenseful
three timelines (sort of)
Shea didn't appreciate her husband
enjoyed Rebecca's timeline most
Shea did have character growth
huh, didn't see that coming
fast-paced
suspenseful
three timelines (sort of)
Shea didn't appreciate her husband
enjoyed Rebecca's timeline most
Shea did have character growth
huh, didn't see that coming
April 23, 2025
Jaime never disappoints! She’s a master of storytelling and one of my writing heroes! I was in a reading slump this last week, and then I cracked this gem open and finished it in a few hours.
It’s moody and atmospheric in a classic JJW way. The nods to Edgar Allan Poe and Annabel Lee were perfectly eerie and a proper amount of spooky. Some readers said it felt darker than other JJW books… I didn’t feel that way personally. There was some dark parts of the storylines, but nothing that didn’t feel par for the course.
This is Jaime’s second book featuring a romance between a married couple whose marriage is on the rocks. And she does it so well. It’s raw and real and healing and hope-filled. The way she writes romance is one of my favourite things about her writing!
In short, this was 5⭐️ perfection, I will absolutely be pre-ordering her next book because I have no chill (haha), and if you want a spooky spring mystery with heart-healing moments about love—the steady staying kind that lasts longer than butterflies—this is the book for you!
Content: a woman is attacked by men in a forest and abused (nondescript); tasteful, vague mentions of marital intimacy
It’s moody and atmospheric in a classic JJW way. The nods to Edgar Allan Poe and Annabel Lee were perfectly eerie and a proper amount of spooky. Some readers said it felt darker than other JJW books… I didn’t feel that way personally. There was some dark parts of the storylines, but nothing that didn’t feel par for the course.
This is Jaime’s second book featuring a romance between a married couple whose marriage is on the rocks. And she does it so well. It’s raw and real and healing and hope-filled. The way she writes romance is one of my favourite things about her writing!
In short, this was 5⭐️ perfection, I will absolutely be pre-ordering her next book because I have no chill (haha), and if you want a spooky spring mystery with heart-healing moments about love—the steady staying kind that lasts longer than butterflies—this is the book for you!
Content: a woman is attacked by men in a forest and abused (nondescript); tasteful, vague mentions of marital intimacy
April 13, 2025
If I could give this book 10 stars I would. I finished this book almost a week ago and I still can't find the words to describe how much this book impacted me. This book is written about love, the different kinds of love and also how difficult love can be to navigate.
Who am I ? Shea, Pete or Edgar?
This book made me examine my own love life between my spouse, friends and my family.
This book will not ever be moving from my shelf. It's a permanent fixture on my shelf. I will reread this book to remind what love is, and that we all are worthy to be loved. Thank you Jaime from the bottom of my heart ❤️
Who am I ? Shea, Pete or Edgar?
This book made me examine my own love life between my spouse, friends and my family.
This book will not ever be moving from my shelf. It's a permanent fixture on my shelf. I will reread this book to remind what love is, and that we all are worthy to be loved. Thank you Jaime from the bottom of my heart ❤️
April 21, 2025
How do I review a book that took me on two journeys? Ones where women separated by over 100 years come to learn what true love truly is?
Shae...oh sweet but selfish Shae. You had me hooked into your story while still thinking "this woman only cares about herself and tries justifying it time and time again." The journey she took with her husband who was estranged but only by emotion. I loved their story and the way their marriage renewed.
Rebecca...you poor soul with no memory of who you are or who you were running from. The way you struggled to remember anything important in your life. Anything to piece together the small fragments of your past. And the whole truth...my heart broke for you, for all you were put through. For all you lost. But then the fulfillment of seeing what you gained in the wake of your losses.
This book was absolutely stunning, amazing, lyrical in some ways, but to the point in others. The setting was incredible, the details of each scene, the way characters were wrapped in lure, traditions, while trying to balance what actually is reality.
If you're looking for a book with light but meaningful romance--romance that is more than roses and whispering sweet nothings...read this book. If you're looking for a book to pull you out of a reading slump (like me), read this book.
If you are a reader...read this book.
If you aren't a reader...this book will make a reader out of you.
Both faith elements and romance elements are lighter in this book but still done incredibly well.
RATINGS:
💋
✝️✝️✝️
*Thank you to the publisher for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.*
Shae...oh sweet but selfish Shae. You had me hooked into your story while still thinking "this woman only cares about herself and tries justifying it time and time again." The journey she took with her husband who was estranged but only by emotion. I loved their story and the way their marriage renewed.
Rebecca...you poor soul with no memory of who you are or who you were running from. The way you struggled to remember anything important in your life. Anything to piece together the small fragments of your past. And the whole truth...my heart broke for you, for all you were put through. For all you lost. But then the fulfillment of seeing what you gained in the wake of your losses.
This book was absolutely stunning, amazing, lyrical in some ways, but to the point in others. The setting was incredible, the details of each scene, the way characters were wrapped in lure, traditions, while trying to balance what actually is reality.
If you're looking for a book with light but meaningful romance--romance that is more than roses and whispering sweet nothings...read this book. If you're looking for a book to pull you out of a reading slump (like me), read this book.
If you are a reader...read this book.
If you aren't a reader...this book will make a reader out of you.
Both faith elements and romance elements are lighter in this book but still done incredibly well.
RATINGS:
💋
✝️✝️✝️
*Thank you to the publisher for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.*
June 21, 2025
Very well written dual time story. Full of suspense and intrigue with wonderful characters. A very satisfying conclusion. Clean (mention of suicide).
May 24, 2025
Another great dual timeline suspense novel from Jaime Jo Wright! Based loosely on the poem Annabel Lee by Edgar Allen Poe, this story tells the haunting tale of Annabel, who died in 1852. The dual timelines follow Rebecca in 1874 and Shea in modern times, as they find refuge from the world at the lighthouse that is placed where Annabel died. This story had all of the elements you typically find in a Jaime Jo Wright novel - a ghostly creep factor, a mystery that spans the ages, and heroes and heroines that are a little bit broken as they find themselves in the story. The romance element in this one was a bit more subtle than her other books, but still present and I enjoyed that piece a bit more. The heroines were both a bit unlikable at first, though not enough to turn me off from the story. Both of them grew throughout the story, though. I enjoyed the mystery element and how it played into 2 timelines 150 years apart. And the faith thread, though subtle, was present as well. All in all, this was an enjoyable story and one I can easily recommend to fans of dual timelines, mystery and suspense.
September 29, 2025
Actual rating: 4.5 stars
Tempest at Annabel’s Lighthouse is the third book I’ve read from Jaime Jo Wright, and it just might be my favorite. This is due in no small part to it owing some of its inspiration to Edgar Allan Poe’s “Annabel Lee,” which has been one of my favorite poems since I was too young to know much poetry. My Pawpaw recited it all the time, and I can still hear it in his voice whenever I read it. Which meant that I heard him the entire time I was reading this book, as every few chapters were headed by a line from the poem. It’s not often that my personal history adds something to the timbre and tone of a fictional story, so this was a pretty fascinating experience for me.
In this split-time narrative, we are following two main perspective characters, with a tertiary perspective weaving through the story periodically. In the present day we follow Shea, a nonfiction author who pens deep dives into the histories and legends of obscure places. Her newest story idea takes her to the infamous Annabel’s Lighthouse, which can now be rented out as an AirB&B. But she has a secondary reason for this trip; Shea’s marriage has grown past comfortable into bland, and she’s tired of feeling trapped by it. Through her we see that you can grow so comfortable with the familiar that you can no longer see its value. This trip is a dry run for a separation from her husband. Of course, nothing is ever as it seems in this kind of story. The lore behind Annabel’s Lighthouse has teeth. Even 150 years after finding her way to an early grave, Annabel doesn’t seem to like people meddling in her affairs.
In 1874 we follow Rebecca, a woman fighting through trauma-induced amnesia. She finds solace and safety in the lighthouse, but its residents seem to be harboring secrets. Secrets that could tell Rebecca who she is and why she’s being hunted. Both she and Shea feel caged, entrapped by their circumstances, though in radically different ways. Rebecca’s situation is much more deadly.
And then we have brief glimpses into the mind of our tertiary perspective character: the eponymous Annabel, in the throes of dying in 1852. The terse, almost poetic interludes from Annabel add so much atmosphere. They're instrumental to the creepy vibe of the story. I had a certain small theory from the beginning, based solely off of a couple of names and my great love of Poe in general and the poem "Annabel Lee" in particular. My theory proved correct, which was a fun little addition for me. And through Annabel and the legends surrounding her, we face an important question: how does your life effect the lives of others, even generations later?
The way Wright tells a story is incredibly compelling, especially in the balance she strikes between perspectives and their time in history. One of my favorite elements of this particular book, outside of my obvious love of all things Poe, was actually her commentary on marriage. While I thoroughly enjoyed the story, these words of wisdom on topics like what makes a good marriage and how to appreciate your spouse for who they truly are instead of who you want them to be were very insightful. These are issues not often broached in fiction, especially in more suspenseful stories like this one.
I had such a great time with this book. I love Wright’s ability to take a spooky, seemingly supernatural story and unmask it, showing the characters and the readers alongside them the truth behind the superstitions. I will say that the ending of the modern plot line felt a bit anticlimactic, but that actually served Shea’s story well. Wright is quickly becoming a go-to author for me, one who scratches a very particular itch in my readerly brain. If you’re looking for spooky, gothic stories that are clean and showcase how the Light dispels the darkness, I highly recommend any of her work, and this book in particular.
Below are some of my favorite quotes from the book, collected mostly for the benefit of my future self. If you’d rather encounter them for yourself in the book, thanks for reading this far! If you want a taste of Wright’s prose before committing to a full novel, you’re welcome to keep reading.
Tempest at Annabel’s Lighthouse is the third book I’ve read from Jaime Jo Wright, and it just might be my favorite. This is due in no small part to it owing some of its inspiration to Edgar Allan Poe’s “Annabel Lee,” which has been one of my favorite poems since I was too young to know much poetry. My Pawpaw recited it all the time, and I can still hear it in his voice whenever I read it. Which meant that I heard him the entire time I was reading this book, as every few chapters were headed by a line from the poem. It’s not often that my personal history adds something to the timbre and tone of a fictional story, so this was a pretty fascinating experience for me.
In this split-time narrative, we are following two main perspective characters, with a tertiary perspective weaving through the story periodically. In the present day we follow Shea, a nonfiction author who pens deep dives into the histories and legends of obscure places. Her newest story idea takes her to the infamous Annabel’s Lighthouse, which can now be rented out as an AirB&B. But she has a secondary reason for this trip; Shea’s marriage has grown past comfortable into bland, and she’s tired of feeling trapped by it. Through her we see that you can grow so comfortable with the familiar that you can no longer see its value. This trip is a dry run for a separation from her husband. Of course, nothing is ever as it seems in this kind of story. The lore behind Annabel’s Lighthouse has teeth. Even 150 years after finding her way to an early grave, Annabel doesn’t seem to like people meddling in her affairs.
In 1874 we follow Rebecca, a woman fighting through trauma-induced amnesia. She finds solace and safety in the lighthouse, but its residents seem to be harboring secrets. Secrets that could tell Rebecca who she is and why she’s being hunted. Both she and Shea feel caged, entrapped by their circumstances, though in radically different ways. Rebecca’s situation is much more deadly.
And then we have brief glimpses into the mind of our tertiary perspective character: the eponymous Annabel, in the throes of dying in 1852. The terse, almost poetic interludes from Annabel add so much atmosphere. They're instrumental to the creepy vibe of the story. I had a certain small theory from the beginning, based solely off of a couple of names and my great love of Poe in general and the poem "Annabel Lee" in particular. My theory proved correct, which was a fun little addition for me. And through Annabel and the legends surrounding her, we face an important question: how does your life effect the lives of others, even generations later?
The way Wright tells a story is incredibly compelling, especially in the balance she strikes between perspectives and their time in history. One of my favorite elements of this particular book, outside of my obvious love of all things Poe, was actually her commentary on marriage. While I thoroughly enjoyed the story, these words of wisdom on topics like what makes a good marriage and how to appreciate your spouse for who they truly are instead of who you want them to be were very insightful. These are issues not often broached in fiction, especially in more suspenseful stories like this one.
I had such a great time with this book. I love Wright’s ability to take a spooky, seemingly supernatural story and unmask it, showing the characters and the readers alongside them the truth behind the superstitions. I will say that the ending of the modern plot line felt a bit anticlimactic, but that actually served Shea’s story well. Wright is quickly becoming a go-to author for me, one who scratches a very particular itch in my readerly brain. If you’re looking for spooky, gothic stories that are clean and showcase how the Light dispels the darkness, I highly recommend any of her work, and this book in particular.
Below are some of my favorite quotes from the book, collected mostly for the benefit of my future self. If you’d rather encounter them for yourself in the book, thanks for reading this far! If you want a taste of Wright’s prose before committing to a full novel, you’re welcome to keep reading.
"There was comfort in the familiar, but there was danger too. It meant settling for mediocrity."
"Love—true love—required humility and sacrifice. That was the long and short of it. Romance ebbed and flowed like the waves outside the lighthouse, and yet love for another carried through the storm. It shone like a light across the tempest, and it beckoned the loved one home to safety."
"Love protected, it trusted, it hoped.
And always, no matter the personal cost, it persevered."
"Shea didn’t believe in ghosts, but she did believe in lore and in telling the stories of the ones whose lives had been captured in ways that made them ghostly.
Annabel had a story.
Shea planned to unravel it, and then she would write it. And when Shea was done, Annabel would no longer be a ghost, but a human who had lived and died, plagued by the same tempestuous waters of love that Shea herself was attempting to navigate."
"Stories must come from somewhere, even if they’re not all true.”
"What are memories if they are only to be lost, and what is the lost unless it has potential to once again be found?”
“Does anyone know the truth about anyone’s story? Life is just a busted-up vessel, its pieces floating to shore. Years later, folks try to patch them together, but the life’s story is never what it really was. The only one who can retell it truthfully is the one who lived it. When you die, Rebecca, the truth dies with you. All that’s left is speculation.”
"She’d been raised to believe that marriage was forever, that vows were sacred, that faith was the fabric of one’s life. Now she was realizing that her dreams were tired of being ignored, her vows had become a prison, and faith was nice but only when it worked."
"Why was happiness and feeling cherished as elusive as Annabel’s ghost?"
“I love the water. I love the lake. I love the roar of the waves, the unbridled power. It reminds me of God. So gentle one day, so far beyond our comprehension the next. I don’t think He should be questioned flippantly.”
“Horror can erase love. It can make love drown beneath its weight...Sometimes love has to be rescued, and sometimes it’s simply too late.”
"I made my vows, and I shall keep them.
Even in death we shall not part."
“Why would I make you larger than you are, larger than you’re capable of being? That’s not fair to you. To have expectations of you that you can’t fulfill? Why would I do that? ... Stupid love songs and stories—they put ideas in people’s heads that are unrealistic. Hang the moon, swim the ocean, go to the ends of the earth. Am I supposed to make you my god? Am I supposed to worship you? How would that be kind to you…?”
April 17, 2025
Tempest at Annabel’s Lighthouse was so good!! I had high hopes for this book. The cover is so pretty and I love lighthouses! The story was really good and very intriguing. There was so many twists and turns to the story and it really kept me guessing.
Also, I have been to a “haunted” lighthouse before so that made it even more exciting for me!
Also, I have been to a “haunted” lighthouse before so that made it even more exciting for me!
April 13, 2025
I enjoyed listening to this book. Jaime Jo Wright writes an amazing dual timeline fictional story surrounding the mysterious Annabel Lee, of Poe’s poem. In current day, Shea is researching the story and mysterious things and ghostly sightings happen while she is warned off by everybody! Who can she trust? In the past, a story is spun of Annabel’s daughter with traumatic amnesia and the family and loves of Annabel. Very suspenseful and full of mystery and danger and surprises. Amazing!
May 11, 2025
My first from the author and it won’t be the last! Wright wrote so many twists and turns in this story spanning through various timelines that made a need in me to know what happened. The progression of pieces of information being revealed to get the whole truth of what happened kept giving gasping moments until the VERY LAST WORD - literally!!
Read it!
Read it!
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