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BEFORE THE LIGHTS GO OUT
LOVE IS BLIND.
SOME THINGS ARE BEST LEFT UNSEEN.
For photographer Reagan Dunkel, sight is everything. But a life built behind a lens is shattered by a devastating a hereditary condition destined to steal her vision—and her young daughter’s. As this frightening new reality sets in, her husband Fynn’s business trip to their native Germany is met with an unsettling silence, leaving Reagan isolated with her fears.
A chilling discovery hidden within her own photographs reveals a darkness far more immediate than her failing sight. The past she thought she knew was a carefully framed lie.
Driven by a mother’s fierce instinct, she flees with her daughter to the familiar streets of Hamburg, seeking answers and refuge. But the familiar port city conceals old ghosts and waking nightmares, forcing Reagan to unravel a sinister truth before the light vanishes for good.
The latest genre-bending page-turner by award-winning author JAFE DANBURY is a riveting Christmastime thriller you won't soon forget. Experience ALL "the feels" within the pages of what might just be his best novel yet!
BEFORE THE LIGHTS GO OUT 🎄 This Christmas! 🎄
JafeDanbury.com
Linktr.ee/JafeDanbury
SOME THINGS ARE BEST LEFT UNSEEN.
For photographer Reagan Dunkel, sight is everything. But a life built behind a lens is shattered by a devastating a hereditary condition destined to steal her vision—and her young daughter’s. As this frightening new reality sets in, her husband Fynn’s business trip to their native Germany is met with an unsettling silence, leaving Reagan isolated with her fears.
A chilling discovery hidden within her own photographs reveals a darkness far more immediate than her failing sight. The past she thought she knew was a carefully framed lie.
Driven by a mother’s fierce instinct, she flees with her daughter to the familiar streets of Hamburg, seeking answers and refuge. But the familiar port city conceals old ghosts and waking nightmares, forcing Reagan to unravel a sinister truth before the light vanishes for good.
The latest genre-bending page-turner by award-winning author JAFE DANBURY is a riveting Christmastime thriller you won't soon forget. Experience ALL "the feels" within the pages of what might just be his best novel yet!
BEFORE THE LIGHTS GO OUT 🎄 This Christmas! 🎄
JafeDanbury.com
Linktr.ee/JafeDanbury
394 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 20, 2025
9 people are currently reading
682 people want to read
About the author
Jafe Danbury
5 books398 followersJafe Danbury hails from the trenches of the Hollywood production scene, where he spent decades as a camera operator, director of photography, and director. He has also worked as a teacher and is a decorated U.S. Navy veteran.
He enjoys noodling on the guitar, long road trips, likes his bacon crispy, and loves a good dive bar––especially if it happens to have a twenty-two-foot shuffleboard table. He prefers a leisurely walk to running, unless being chased by a clown with a chainsaw.
Jafe and his lovely bride currently reside in central California and are working on their exit plan. Their children consist of several rescue dogs and a wacky cockatoo, or two.
He is the author of five riveting suspense thrillers.
His latest, BEFORE THE LIGHTS GO OUT, is
both pulse-pounding and heartwarming, and is a noteworthy Christmastime thriller that will keep you turning the pages as it delivers "all the feels!" This riveting, genre-bending standalone thriller was released December 20th, and some are calling it Jafe's best yet.
Here's the Readers' Favorite ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ review:
"The novel highlights themes of motherly love, betrayal, resilience, and, finally, spiritual awakening as Reagan learns to find the light in the darkness. The narrative moves quickly as Reagan discovers the truth about her husband, and it culminates in a cinematic showdown.
Jafe Danbury excels at creating vivid sensory details: the smell of the Hamburg fish market, the taste of German pastries, and the texture of rope lighting guides in a dark house. I look forward to seeing Before the Lights Go Out adapted for the screen.
Danbury has crafted a compelling protagonist in Reagan Dunkel and well-written supporting characters. The mother-daughter dynamic is the heart of the novel, and the friendship with Ames is written in its purest sense: one of loyalty, support, and banter."
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Mimie Odigwe for Readers' Favorite
SO MUCH FOREVER, is an incendiary Book 3 in the award-winning Phoenix Series, and it was recently named WINNER of the coveted BookFest Award!
❌, Book 2 in the series, is the riveting follow-up to the critically-acclaimed novel, LEAVING PHOENIX.
His debut novel, THE OTHER CHEEK, was awarded a Finalist Medal for "Best First Novel" at the 2020 Next Generation Indie Book Awards. It is based on the author's true story.
Check out the author's Linktree here:
https://linktr.ee/JafeDanbury ✍️
He enjoys noodling on the guitar, long road trips, likes his bacon crispy, and loves a good dive bar––especially if it happens to have a twenty-two-foot shuffleboard table. He prefers a leisurely walk to running, unless being chased by a clown with a chainsaw.
Jafe and his lovely bride currently reside in central California and are working on their exit plan. Their children consist of several rescue dogs and a wacky cockatoo, or two.
He is the author of five riveting suspense thrillers.
His latest, BEFORE THE LIGHTS GO OUT, is
both pulse-pounding and heartwarming, and is a noteworthy Christmastime thriller that will keep you turning the pages as it delivers "all the feels!" This riveting, genre-bending standalone thriller was released December 20th, and some are calling it Jafe's best yet.
Here's the Readers' Favorite ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ review:
"The novel highlights themes of motherly love, betrayal, resilience, and, finally, spiritual awakening as Reagan learns to find the light in the darkness. The narrative moves quickly as Reagan discovers the truth about her husband, and it culminates in a cinematic showdown.
Jafe Danbury excels at creating vivid sensory details: the smell of the Hamburg fish market, the taste of German pastries, and the texture of rope lighting guides in a dark house. I look forward to seeing Before the Lights Go Out adapted for the screen.
Danbury has crafted a compelling protagonist in Reagan Dunkel and well-written supporting characters. The mother-daughter dynamic is the heart of the novel, and the friendship with Ames is written in its purest sense: one of loyalty, support, and banter."
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Mimie Odigwe for Readers' Favorite
SO MUCH FOREVER, is an incendiary Book 3 in the award-winning Phoenix Series, and it was recently named WINNER of the coveted BookFest Award!
❌, Book 2 in the series, is the riveting follow-up to the critically-acclaimed novel, LEAVING PHOENIX.
His debut novel, THE OTHER CHEEK, was awarded a Finalist Medal for "Best First Novel" at the 2020 Next Generation Indie Book Awards. It is based on the author's true story.
Check out the author's Linktree here:
https://linktr.ee/JafeDanbury ✍️
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
December 21, 2025
Jafe Danbury’s talent was a major blind spot for me until now! Before the Lights Go Out was my first Danbury book, and I really had no idea what to expect. What I ended up experiencing was a suspenseful high-stakes cinematic thriller—raw, deeply emotional, and served with splashes of genuine love and humor.
I’m no longer keeping the blinders on to your brilliance, Mr. Danbury. I’m happy this was my first book—it’s special and unforgettable. I’d be remiss not to mention that I love the surprise left at the end of the book for readers. I’ve already ‘tuned’ into that!
***Many thanks to Jafe Danbury for the advance reader copy. All opinions expressed are my own.***
I’m no longer keeping the blinders on to your brilliance, Mr. Danbury. I’m happy this was my first book—it’s special and unforgettable. I’d be remiss not to mention that I love the surprise left at the end of the book for readers. I’ve already ‘tuned’ into that!
***Many thanks to Jafe Danbury for the advance reader copy. All opinions expressed are my own.***
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book is a haunting yet emotionally charged novel. It is a slow burn that blends psychological suspense with family drama. Through the lens of photographer Reagan, the story explores what it means to see, truly see, when sight itself is slowly slipping away.
Reagan is a beautifully layered character. Her identity is rooted in her vision, making her hereditary diagnosis all the more devastating, not only for herself but for her young daughter Steffi. The author takes time to build Reagan’s inner world, allowing readers to sit with her fear, denial, and fierce resolve and that is what gives this story such an emotional weight.
The mother/daughter bond is at the heart of this novel. Their relationship is tender, raw, and yet very powerfully motivating and very deeply human. Reagan’s love for her daughter Steffi fuels every decision she makes, transforming fear into action.
This mystery unfolds gradually, with tension simmering beneath the surface when a chilling discovery hidden in Reagan’s own photographs is discovered. Taking her back in time where the past she thought she had, starts to unravel, blurring the line between perception and truth. As the narrative shifts to Hamburg, the familiar becomes ominous, and long buried family secrets rise to the surface. The city itself pulls at Reagans memories, reveals shadows, and unresolved history.
Family secrets are revealed with restraint and is done so masterfully without taking from the heart of the story. Watching Reagan unravel a carefully set up illusion while battling her own challenges with her vision takes the story to a whole other level. Watching her dismantle it piece by piece is both unsettling and compelling all at once.
This book is an intense and emotionally charged story about legacy, truth, and the lengths a mother will go to protect her child. The slow burn pays off with a gripping conclusion that lingers long after the final page, reminding readers that even as light fades, love and truth can still illuminate the darkest corners.
This story left me with all the feels, in the true Jafe Danbury style that I have come to love so much! Run and grab your copy today!
Reagan is a beautifully layered character. Her identity is rooted in her vision, making her hereditary diagnosis all the more devastating, not only for herself but for her young daughter Steffi. The author takes time to build Reagan’s inner world, allowing readers to sit with her fear, denial, and fierce resolve and that is what gives this story such an emotional weight.
The mother/daughter bond is at the heart of this novel. Their relationship is tender, raw, and yet very powerfully motivating and very deeply human. Reagan’s love for her daughter Steffi fuels every decision she makes, transforming fear into action.
This mystery unfolds gradually, with tension simmering beneath the surface when a chilling discovery hidden in Reagan’s own photographs is discovered. Taking her back in time where the past she thought she had, starts to unravel, blurring the line between perception and truth. As the narrative shifts to Hamburg, the familiar becomes ominous, and long buried family secrets rise to the surface. The city itself pulls at Reagans memories, reveals shadows, and unresolved history.
Family secrets are revealed with restraint and is done so masterfully without taking from the heart of the story. Watching Reagan unravel a carefully set up illusion while battling her own challenges with her vision takes the story to a whole other level. Watching her dismantle it piece by piece is both unsettling and compelling all at once.
This book is an intense and emotionally charged story about legacy, truth, and the lengths a mother will go to protect her child. The slow burn pays off with a gripping conclusion that lingers long after the final page, reminding readers that even as light fades, love and truth can still illuminate the darkest corners.
This story left me with all the feels, in the true Jafe Danbury style that I have come to love so much! Run and grab your copy today!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Reagan and her daughter Steffie are home alone after Reagan’s husband and Steffie’s stepdad, Fynn, goes on a business trip to Germany. A recent diagnosis that is affecting Reagan’s health and will affect Steffie’s also, leaves them both devastated. The fact that Fynn is not checking in with his family very often is making matters worse.
Reagan decides that she and her daughter should visit Germany to surprise her husband. As we follow their journey, we realize that something sinister is going on with Fynn.
This book was amazing. It is in my top five of 2025 books.
You will not be able to put this book down. It was a pulse pounding book that is not to be missed.
I’m looking forward to Jafe’s next book. He has quickly become one of my very favorite authors
Reagan decides that she and her daughter should visit Germany to surprise her husband. As we follow their journey, we realize that something sinister is going on with Fynn.
This book was amazing. It is in my top five of 2025 books.
You will not be able to put this book down. It was a pulse pounding book that is not to be missed.
I’m looking forward to Jafe’s next book. He has quickly become one of my very favorite authors
February 2, 2026
BOOK REVIEW- With Before the Lights Go Out, Jafe Danbury delivers a suspense novel that operates on both the nerves and the heart. This is a story that understands tension isn’t only born from danger—but from time running out. When photographer Reagan Dunkel learns that she and her daughter share a rare condition that will eventually steal their vision, the threat feels intimate, relentless, and terrifyingly inevitable.
What begins as a personal reckoning quickly fractures into something far more sinister. Fragments of the past surface through Reagan’s own work, forcing her to question everything she thought she knew about her marriage, her safety, and the people closest to her. The novel’s menace is patient and psychological, building steadily rather than relying on shock alone.
Danbury’s depiction of Germany during the Christmas season adds an unexpected richness to the narrative. The setting provides contrast rather than comfort—familiar streets and traditions become places of unease, where beauty and danger quietly coexist. This cultural texture elevates the story, grounding the suspense in a world that feels lived-in and authentic.
What truly distinguishes Before the Lights Go Out is its emotional urgency. At its core, this is a mother’s race against forces she can’t fully see, both literally and figuratively. With sharp pacing, immersive atmosphere, and a lingering sense of dread, Danbury crafts a thriller that stays with you—long after the final page fades to black.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED 👏
What begins as a personal reckoning quickly fractures into something far more sinister. Fragments of the past surface through Reagan’s own work, forcing her to question everything she thought she knew about her marriage, her safety, and the people closest to her. The novel’s menace is patient and psychological, building steadily rather than relying on shock alone.
Danbury’s depiction of Germany during the Christmas season adds an unexpected richness to the narrative. The setting provides contrast rather than comfort—familiar streets and traditions become places of unease, where beauty and danger quietly coexist. This cultural texture elevates the story, grounding the suspense in a world that feels lived-in and authentic.
What truly distinguishes Before the Lights Go Out is its emotional urgency. At its core, this is a mother’s race against forces she can’t fully see, both literally and figuratively. With sharp pacing, immersive atmosphere, and a lingering sense of dread, Danbury crafts a thriller that stays with you—long after the final page fades to black.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED 👏
January 24, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 Stars
I met Jafe Danbury years ago in an indie author Facebook group, and he is genuinely one of the sweetest authors out there. He has been an auto-buy author for me ever since. I’ve read every single one of his books, so when I had the chance to read Before the Lights Go Out, I jumped on it without hesitation and it did not disappoint.
Steffi and Reagan are incredibly strong, amazing women. Their resilience and growth really stood out to me, and I loved watching them navigate everything thrown their way. And Amethyst? Hands down the best friend every girl deserves to have. Loyal, fierce, and exactly the kind of character you want in your corner.
Now, the two main MMCs… I wanted to punch them from the very first page and I mean that in the best way possible. One thing Jafe Danbury does exceptionally well is writing villains you love to hate. They get under your skin immediately and make every moment more intense. You just want to smack them, and that’s what makes them so effective.
This book pulled me in from the start and reminded me exactly why Jafe Danbury remains an auto-buy author for me. If you love strong female characters, unforgettable friendships, and villains that make your blood boil, this book is absolutely worth your time.
Highly recommend. 💜📚 @jafedanbury
I met Jafe Danbury years ago in an indie author Facebook group, and he is genuinely one of the sweetest authors out there. He has been an auto-buy author for me ever since. I’ve read every single one of his books, so when I had the chance to read Before the Lights Go Out, I jumped on it without hesitation and it did not disappoint.
Steffi and Reagan are incredibly strong, amazing women. Their resilience and growth really stood out to me, and I loved watching them navigate everything thrown their way. And Amethyst? Hands down the best friend every girl deserves to have. Loyal, fierce, and exactly the kind of character you want in your corner.
Now, the two main MMCs… I wanted to punch them from the very first page and I mean that in the best way possible. One thing Jafe Danbury does exceptionally well is writing villains you love to hate. They get under your skin immediately and make every moment more intense. You just want to smack them, and that’s what makes them so effective.
This book pulled me in from the start and reminded me exactly why Jafe Danbury remains an auto-buy author for me. If you love strong female characters, unforgettable friendships, and villains that make your blood boil, this book is absolutely worth your time.
Highly recommend. 💜📚 @jafedanbury
February 13, 2026
Where to start ? Brilliant and has you not wanting to put the book down,!
Jafe Danbury delivers a memorable story of coming to terms with a irreversible affliction to her eye's , that not only afflicts our main heroine Reagan a talented photographer, wife and MOM, but her teen daughter Steffi as well, And lets not forget ,Present but Absent husband Flynn, with a shady agenda at play . And can we talk about amazing Twinny to Regan's best friend Amethyst a dear favorite of mine to be honest , because behind any great leading lady is a quirky , strong confident supporter and dearest friend.
When she goes through some old photo prints on her computer she finds evidence of fowl play involving the death of her dear parents and more evidence surfaces and questions rise and before "Light go out" completely she is driven to find out the answers to all her questions, even if that means leaving there home in the Pacific Northwest , Washington State and boarding an international flight to her homeland , in Germany , and the be notes to Her and Steffi do they find themselves fighting for there lives in pursuit of answers .
Grab your copy TODAY!!! :)
Jafe Danbury delivers a memorable story of coming to terms with a irreversible affliction to her eye's , that not only afflicts our main heroine Reagan a talented photographer, wife and MOM, but her teen daughter Steffi as well, And lets not forget ,Present but Absent husband Flynn, with a shady agenda at play . And can we talk about amazing Twinny to Regan's best friend Amethyst a dear favorite of mine to be honest , because behind any great leading lady is a quirky , strong confident supporter and dearest friend.
When she goes through some old photo prints on her computer she finds evidence of fowl play involving the death of her dear parents and more evidence surfaces and questions rise and before "Light go out" completely she is driven to find out the answers to all her questions, even if that means leaving there home in the Pacific Northwest , Washington State and boarding an international flight to her homeland , in Germany , and the be notes to Her and Steffi do they find themselves fighting for there lives in pursuit of answers .
Grab your copy TODAY!!! :)
December 8, 2025
Lies, deceits, and betrayals- another Jafe Danbury excellent book!
Reagan has just discovered that she has an eye disease, and is on her way to blindness. What’s worse is that the condition is hereditary, and her 15 year old daughter has early symptoms as well. With her husband in Germany on a business trip, Reagan and her daughter embark on a Christmas vacation to Germany as well.
At the same time, Reagan’s husband has planned a takeover of the Reagan’s business, started by Reagan’s late parents. What he plans is downright diabolical .
Most of the fast moving action takes place in Germany, with snow storms , kidnapping and shootouts!
This book is a wild ride.
Jafe has written an action packed story, providing a quick read that the reader can’t put down!
Sprinkled in are Jafe’s favorite songs, and very relatable current products, and foods, that all homes should have!!
Kudos on Danbury book #5! It’s a 5 star winner!
Reagan has just discovered that she has an eye disease, and is on her way to blindness. What’s worse is that the condition is hereditary, and her 15 year old daughter has early symptoms as well. With her husband in Germany on a business trip, Reagan and her daughter embark on a Christmas vacation to Germany as well.
At the same time, Reagan’s husband has planned a takeover of the Reagan’s business, started by Reagan’s late parents. What he plans is downright diabolical .
Most of the fast moving action takes place in Germany, with snow storms , kidnapping and shootouts!
This book is a wild ride.
Jafe has written an action packed story, providing a quick read that the reader can’t put down!
Sprinkled in are Jafe’s favorite songs, and very relatable current products, and foods, that all homes should have!!
Kudos on Danbury book #5! It’s a 5 star winner!
December 23, 2025
Before the Lights Go Out is a fast-paced, emotionally charged thriller that kept me on the edge of my seat from start to finish. This story had me in a chokehold and didn’t let go until the final page, with tension that builds relentlessly throughout.
Reagan is a strong and compelling protagonist who faces overwhelming challenges with courage and determination. As a parent of a young adult daughter, the relationship between Reagan and Steffi deeply resonated with me. It felt authentic and tender, adding a heartfelt layer to the suspense, with a little humor sprinkled in at just the right moments. That emotional connection made the story not only thrilling but genuinely moving.
Set against a chilling backdrop, Before the Lights Go Out is a gripping exploration of motherhood, trust, and the devastating truths we sometimes fail to see. This was a powerful, unforgettable read that will stay with you long after it ends.
Reagan is a strong and compelling protagonist who faces overwhelming challenges with courage and determination. As a parent of a young adult daughter, the relationship between Reagan and Steffi deeply resonated with me. It felt authentic and tender, adding a heartfelt layer to the suspense, with a little humor sprinkled in at just the right moments. That emotional connection made the story not only thrilling but genuinely moving.
Set against a chilling backdrop, Before the Lights Go Out is a gripping exploration of motherhood, trust, and the devastating truths we sometimes fail to see. This was a powerful, unforgettable read that will stay with you long after it ends.
Review of advance copy received from Author
From Seattle to Germany this Christmas thriller will have you turning pages so fast.
Jafe has a way of drawing you into the story and not letting you go. The character development was outstanding. Reagan and Steffi will live in my heart forever. Fynn not so much...lol. The description of Germany has me wanting to go even more.
Please be sure to read the authors notes... Jafe puts an amazing amount of time researching his topics in this book. And it definitely shows in this fabulous story.
You have to listen to Reagan's play list on Spotify.... One of my favorite Etta James ( I'd rather go blind)
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0B1...
Gut gemacht, mein Freund!
Danke Jafe for letting me read this thrilling book.
p.s This is in my top 5 this year.
Jafe has a way of drawing you into the story and not letting you go. The character development was outstanding. Reagan and Steffi will live in my heart forever. Fynn not so much...lol. The description of Germany has me wanting to go even more.
Please be sure to read the authors notes... Jafe puts an amazing amount of time researching his topics in this book. And it definitely shows in this fabulous story.
You have to listen to Reagan's play list on Spotify.... One of my favorite Etta James ( I'd rather go blind)
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0B1...
Gut gemacht, mein Freund!
Danke Jafe for letting me read this thrilling book.
p.s This is in my top 5 this year.
December 15, 2025
I’m still so thrilled to have received an ARC of Before the Lights Go Out! Something I love about Jafe Danbury’s writing is that the characters feel like real people who you may know in your day to day life instead of cookie cutter tropes. Reagan is your average mom just doing her best for her daughter, and that alone makes her so lovable and real. I also loved being transported to Germany for a large part of the story. It was apparent Danbury spent a lot of time on his research, even down to one character’s prosthetic legs. Danbury’s works need to be talked about more! I continue to love every book of his I read.
December 14, 2025
Before The Lights Go Out
Reagan, a photographer, is shattered by her medical diagnosis that will steal her sight and that of her daughter’s.
Reagan flees, alone, with her daughter, to Hamburg seeking answers after spotting an eerie darkness in one of her photographs. She needs to find out the evil truth before her lights go out.
Filled with danger, suspense and will keep you on the edge of your seat!!
This is an unforgettable story with amazing characters. I could not put this book down. A must-read!
Reagan, a photographer, is shattered by her medical diagnosis that will steal her sight and that of her daughter’s.
Reagan flees, alone, with her daughter, to Hamburg seeking answers after spotting an eerie darkness in one of her photographs. She needs to find out the evil truth before her lights go out.
Filled with danger, suspense and will keep you on the edge of your seat!!
This is an unforgettable story with amazing characters. I could not put this book down. A must-read!
December 22, 2025
An Unexpected Christmas Gift
I had no clue as I anticipated this release that it would wind its way into a Christmas miracle.
When German emigrant, Reagan finally accepts her daunting diagnosis, coupled with the revelation that her teenage daughter would likely suffer the same fate, she takes her bestie's advice and plans a quick holiday to her homeland with her, hoping to share the beauty of Germany at Christmas.
Unfortunately, her traitorous husband has other plans that may destroy her livelihood as well as their lives.
I could not put this one down!
I had no clue as I anticipated this release that it would wind its way into a Christmas miracle.
When German emigrant, Reagan finally accepts her daunting diagnosis, coupled with the revelation that her teenage daughter would likely suffer the same fate, she takes her bestie's advice and plans a quick holiday to her homeland with her, hoping to share the beauty of Germany at Christmas.
Unfortunately, her traitorous husband has other plans that may destroy her livelihood as well as their lives.
I could not put this one down!
December 27, 2025
Before the Lights Go Out is a tense, atmospheric read that keeps you on the edge of your seat, constantly wondering what will happen next. Jafe Danbury does a great job building suspense while grounding the story in strong emotional depth. The characters feel real, and the stakes feel personal. The author also explains Reagan’s eye disease, retinitis pigmentosa, in a way that is clear and easy to understand without feeling overwhelming or clinical. The story lingers after the final page, making it both memorable and impactful.
Thank you, Jafe, for allowing me the opportunity to be an ARC reader and enjoying this story early. Danke!
Thank you, Jafe, for allowing me the opportunity to be an ARC reader and enjoying this story early. Danke!
December 10, 2025
I have read every book that this author has written and I’ve been following him since day one. All his books are just so amazing but this book took me by surprise. It’s so different from his other books and I love the direction that this book went in. It was so unexpected and had me on the edge of my seat the whole time. It had mystery, intrigue and jaw dropping suspense. This is an author to follow because he gets better and better with each book he writes. I can’t recommend him enough.
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
I am a loyal Danbury fan who just adores his Phoenix series books. With that being said, I did not think that series could be topped. So wrong! Before the Lights Go Out is intense. It is so full of drama, trauma, and twists I read the whole book in two sittings. Regan and her daughter Steffi move to the US from Germany so Regan can pursue her photography career. The rest of her family still resides in Germany and own a local fish market. Regan's husband is not a nice man or father. He does some really shady stuff while managing her company. You can't believe what he does! Mr. Danbury does an excellent job of moving between these two countries and adding in a dash of German lore and lingo. This was such a suspenseful read I found myself skipping over words just so I could find out what happens next! What you think will happen, will not happen. Nail biting, edge of your seat action throughout the whole book. But, spoiler alert, the ending will have you in tears. Not saying another word, no more spoilers, but you have GOT to read this book!!!
December 19, 2025
Truly enjoyed the storyline behind this thriller. I appreciated the research that went into the MC’s diagnosis and experiences throughout the narrative. It really put the reader into the challenging perspective of degenerative eye diseases. I also enjoyed the use of German dialect throughout. It was a fun change of pace between characters. Overall, a great book!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 22, 2026
This book was extremely well written, and it took me on a wild ride I wasn't expecting. Raegan was just an engaging main character, and I felt for her every step of the way...just like we were besties. I love a good thriller, and this checked all the boxes.
I'll definitely be reading more from this author in the future!
I'll definitely be reading more from this author in the future!
December 27, 2025
This is my first Jafe Danbury book, but it definitely won't be my last. This book was equal parts thriller and family drama. At the heart of it is a mother and daughters relationship and how love can "see" you through anything.
This book brought out all kinds of emotions in me, from anger to sadness, joy to fear and everything in between. I couldn't put it down.
This book brought out all kinds of emotions in me, from anger to sadness, joy to fear and everything in between. I couldn't put it down.
January 11, 2026
Another fabulous book by my favorite author. It grabs you on page 1 and keeps you turning pages as quickly as possible. The twists and turns are unbelievable as are the descriptions of the locations throughout the book. I have read it twice because it is soooo very interesting and well written!
February 2, 2026
See No Evil
I was hooked on 'Before the Lights Go Out' from the get-go, and I'm not just saying that because I'm a sucker for a good thriller. The story's got it all - intrigue, deception, and a villain so evil, you'll love to hate him. Flynn's the name, and double-crossing's his game. But what really got me invested was the relationship between Reagan and her daughter Steffi. Also Ames and Reagan's bond - They're like family, and their struggles feel heartbreakingly real. And let's not forget the plot twists - I did not see that German fish market twist coming!
I was hooked on 'Before the Lights Go Out' from the get-go, and I'm not just saying that because I'm a sucker for a good thriller. The story's got it all - intrigue, deception, and a villain so evil, you'll love to hate him. Flynn's the name, and double-crossing's his game. But what really got me invested was the relationship between Reagan and her daughter Steffi. Also Ames and Reagan's bond - They're like family, and their struggles feel heartbreakingly real. And let's not forget the plot twists - I did not see that German fish market twist coming!
December 28, 2025
WOW!! Another must read from Danbury. The characters are awesome, the plot is good and he keeps you on the edge the entire time. Jafe Danbury delivers AGAIN!!!
December 25, 2025
Excellent
Loved this book! Not just twists & turns. Jafe Danbury tells a great story. Really enjoyed the changes in setting & learning some of what I guess are some of his personal experiences. I was pleasantly surprised to have a visit from a special friend that is near & dear to the hearts of anyone that follows Danbury. I’ve read every book he’s written, enjoy following him on Facebook & encourage anyone reading my review to do the same.
Loved this book! Not just twists & turns. Jafe Danbury tells a great story. Really enjoyed the changes in setting & learning some of what I guess are some of his personal experiences. I was pleasantly surprised to have a visit from a special friend that is near & dear to the hearts of anyone that follows Danbury. I’ve read every book he’s written, enjoy following him on Facebook & encourage anyone reading my review to do the same.
January 9, 2026
rounding down from 4.2 stars
This was a slow burn for me. It was obvious as to what was going on and what would happen. Around the 65-70% mark the pacing picked up and new characters were introduced. I really enjoyed the book from that point on!
This was a slow burn for me. It was obvious as to what was going on and what would happen. Around the 65-70% mark the pacing picked up and new characters were introduced. I really enjoyed the book from that point on!
January 8, 2026
A real page turner
I read this book in one sitting. To say I was on the edge of my seat is an understatement. The characters are well written and the plot was unusual and kept me guessing. This is the first book I have read by this author, but certainly not the last.
I read this book in one sitting. To say I was on the edge of my seat is an understatement. The characters are well written and the plot was unusual and kept me guessing. This is the first book I have read by this author, but certainly not the last.
January 25, 2026
Danke schön, Jafe for putting your book in my hands! This book was so good, I forgot I was reading a book! I’m convinced Jafe is incapable of writing a bad book! In which I’ve read all his books!
December 22, 2025
Jafe never disappoints his readers. This is another great book! He weaves a great story full of suspense that also makes you fall in love with his amazing main characters!
Jafe is truly a master at making his main characters come alive in a way that you feel like you actually know them.
Our FMC, Reagan, is forced to deal with a major medical diagnosis for herself and her daughter. Meanwhile, her husband who is in Germany dealing with her family's business, goes silent. As the story unravels, Reagan and her daughter are put into dangerous situations. How will they make it through?
I became so invested that I couldn't wait to see what would happen next.
Grab this book and fall in love with Jafe's wonderful characters and storytelling ability.
Jafe is truly a master at making his main characters come alive in a way that you feel like you actually know them.
Our FMC, Reagan, is forced to deal with a major medical diagnosis for herself and her daughter. Meanwhile, her husband who is in Germany dealing with her family's business, goes silent. As the story unravels, Reagan and her daughter are put into dangerous situations. How will they make it through?
I became so invested that I couldn't wait to see what would happen next.
Grab this book and fall in love with Jafe's wonderful characters and storytelling ability.
December 20, 2025
What a story! This dark Christmas thriller pulled me in from the very first page and refused to let go. It’s tense, chilling, and endlessly suspenseful — the kind of book you think you’ll read in small doses, but end up devouring in one sitting. I couldn’t put it down. Danbury delivers a gripping, atmospheric tale that perfectly blends holiday cheer with lurking dread. If you love twisty, unsettling Christmas thrillers, this one is a must-read.
January 15, 2026
In Jafe Danbury’s psychological domestic thriller, "Before the Lights Go Out," I found myself pulled into a world where every moment mattered more than ever. As a photographer, Reagan Dunkel’s life revolves around sight, capturing the world through her lens. However, her world is turned upside down when she receives a devastating diagnosis—a hereditary condition that threatens to take away her vision and that of her young daughter, Stephani (Steffi). This premise alone had me hooked, setting the stage for an intense and emotional journey.
Reagan’s best friend, Amethyst (Ames), urges her to seize the opportunity to take Steffi to Germany for Christmas “before the lights go out.” This trip was meant to be a cherished memory, but soon became a crucible of fear and revelation. As her husband Fynn’s business trip turns out to be what Reagan least expected, she finds herself isolated, grappling with her own fears and the unsettling secrets that begin to unravel around her. The tension mounts when Ames is mistakenly attacked in the States, forcing Reagan to confront the very fabric of her reality to protect those she loves most, especially Steffi.
Following Reagan and Steffi through their life-altering experiences felt incredibly authentic. Their relationship is portrayed with depth and sincerity, making it easy for me to root for them. The bond between Reagan and Ames also stood out as realistic and flawed, adding to the story’s emotional weight. The characters are multi-layered, with hidden motives and secrets that propel the plot forward. While the primary characters are well-crafted, I wish the secondary characters had been more fully developed, as they lacked the same depth, which occasionally took away from the overall suspense, in my opinion.
Jafe Danbury’s signature slow burn is evident throughout, but this time with a pace that painstakingly builds almost over halfway through. Although the story took its time to pick up, the sudden bursts of psychological tension kept me engaged. While many of the twists were foreseeable to me, I can’t be certain if this was an intentional move by the author. The action sequences were gripping, and once they started, I couldn’t tear myself away. The ending was satisfying, tying up the loose ends and leaving me with a sense of closure, and the ending lyrics that were included were not lost on me.
While "Before the Lights Go Out" may not surpass some of Danbury’s other works in my personal ranking, it still delivers a compelling read that kept me turning the pages. If you’re looking for a slow-burning, domestic thriller that combines emotional depth with suspenseful storytelling, this is a book you won’t want to miss. Dive into the mystery and discover what lies beneath the surface before the lights go out.
Reagan’s best friend, Amethyst (Ames), urges her to seize the opportunity to take Steffi to Germany for Christmas “before the lights go out.” This trip was meant to be a cherished memory, but soon became a crucible of fear and revelation. As her husband Fynn’s business trip turns out to be what Reagan least expected, she finds herself isolated, grappling with her own fears and the unsettling secrets that begin to unravel around her. The tension mounts when Ames is mistakenly attacked in the States, forcing Reagan to confront the very fabric of her reality to protect those she loves most, especially Steffi.
Following Reagan and Steffi through their life-altering experiences felt incredibly authentic. Their relationship is portrayed with depth and sincerity, making it easy for me to root for them. The bond between Reagan and Ames also stood out as realistic and flawed, adding to the story’s emotional weight. The characters are multi-layered, with hidden motives and secrets that propel the plot forward. While the primary characters are well-crafted, I wish the secondary characters had been more fully developed, as they lacked the same depth, which occasionally took away from the overall suspense, in my opinion.
Jafe Danbury’s signature slow burn is evident throughout, but this time with a pace that painstakingly builds almost over halfway through. Although the story took its time to pick up, the sudden bursts of psychological tension kept me engaged. While many of the twists were foreseeable to me, I can’t be certain if this was an intentional move by the author. The action sequences were gripping, and once they started, I couldn’t tear myself away. The ending was satisfying, tying up the loose ends and leaving me with a sense of closure, and the ending lyrics that were included were not lost on me.
While "Before the Lights Go Out" may not surpass some of Danbury’s other works in my personal ranking, it still delivers a compelling read that kept me turning the pages. If you’re looking for a slow-burning, domestic thriller that combines emotional depth with suspenseful storytelling, this is a book you won’t want to miss. Dive into the mystery and discover what lies beneath the surface before the lights go out.
December 29, 2025
Before the Lights Go Out is a darkly immersive thriller that pulls the reader into a world where certainty slowly collapses and fear creeps in through the smallest cracks. Jafe Danbury takes a familiar foundation—family, love, and home—and steadily strips away its safety, replacing it with suspicion and unease. The pacing is deliberate yet gripping, allowing tension to build naturally while maintaining a constant sense that something is profoundly wrong beneath the surface.
Reagan Dunkel is a strikingly complex protagonist whose profession as a photographer adds powerful symbolism to the story. Her diagnosis of a hereditary condition that will eventually steal her sight is devastating, especially because it threatens her young daughter as well. Danbury captures Reagan’s emotional journey with realism, from disbelief and denial to quiet panic and fierce resolve. Her struggle feels deeply personal, and her strength emerges not from fearlessness, but from her refusal to abandon her role as a mother.
The emotional center of the novel lies in the relationship between Reagan and her daughter Steffi. Their bond is portrayed with warmth and vulnerability, making their shared moments feel intimate and sincere. Reagan’s protectiveness is instinctive and relentless, and her love for Steffi gives the story its moral compass. These moments of connection add weight to the suspense, reminding the reader what is truly at stake as danger closes in.
The mystery itself unfolds with unsettling precision. The discovery hidden within Reagan’s photographs is both disturbing and symbolic, challenging the idea that seeing is the same as knowing. As Reagan flees to Hamburg in search of answers, the setting takes on a haunting presence of its own. Familiar streets and family ties become sources of dread, and long-buried secrets surface in ways that feel both inevitable and shocking. The city becomes a reflection of Reagan’s fractured understanding of her own past.
What ultimately makes Before the Lights Go Out so compelling is its balance of psychological tension and emotional depth. The revelations are layered and carefully timed, allowing the story to maintain its suspense without losing its heart. Watching Reagan piece together the truth while battling both external threats and her own failing vision is gripping and unsettling. This novel is not just a thriller, but a powerful exploration of motherhood, trust, and the terrifying consequences of truths left unseen, leaving a lasting impression long after the final page.
Reagan Dunkel is a strikingly complex protagonist whose profession as a photographer adds powerful symbolism to the story. Her diagnosis of a hereditary condition that will eventually steal her sight is devastating, especially because it threatens her young daughter as well. Danbury captures Reagan’s emotional journey with realism, from disbelief and denial to quiet panic and fierce resolve. Her struggle feels deeply personal, and her strength emerges not from fearlessness, but from her refusal to abandon her role as a mother.
The emotional center of the novel lies in the relationship between Reagan and her daughter Steffi. Their bond is portrayed with warmth and vulnerability, making their shared moments feel intimate and sincere. Reagan’s protectiveness is instinctive and relentless, and her love for Steffi gives the story its moral compass. These moments of connection add weight to the suspense, reminding the reader what is truly at stake as danger closes in.
The mystery itself unfolds with unsettling precision. The discovery hidden within Reagan’s photographs is both disturbing and symbolic, challenging the idea that seeing is the same as knowing. As Reagan flees to Hamburg in search of answers, the setting takes on a haunting presence of its own. Familiar streets and family ties become sources of dread, and long-buried secrets surface in ways that feel both inevitable and shocking. The city becomes a reflection of Reagan’s fractured understanding of her own past.
What ultimately makes Before the Lights Go Out so compelling is its balance of psychological tension and emotional depth. The revelations are layered and carefully timed, allowing the story to maintain its suspense without losing its heart. Watching Reagan piece together the truth while battling both external threats and her own failing vision is gripping and unsettling. This novel is not just a thriller, but a powerful exploration of motherhood, trust, and the terrifying consequences of truths left unseen, leaving a lasting impression long after the final page.
February 7, 2026
Before the Lights Go Out by Jafe Danbury
Rating:5/5
Review:
👉This book is a gripping psychological thriller that unfolds with a quiet intensity and steadily tightens its hold on the reader. The novel opens with a deeply unsettling premise, as photographer Reagan Dunkel is forced to confront a hereditary condition that will eventually rob both her and her young daughter of their sight. This revelation alone is enough to ground the story in fear and vulnerability, but Danbury uses it as the foundation for a much darker and more complex narrative.
👉As Reagan struggles to process her diagnosis, the sudden absence of her husband, Fynn, introduces an atmosphere of uncertainty and mistrust. His unexplained silence becomes a constant presence in the story, amplifying Reagan’s isolation and emotional strain. When disturbing details begin to surface within Reagan’s own photographs, the novel takes a chilling turn, suggesting that the danger she faces is not only physical but deeply rooted in her past. The slow unraveling of these truths is handled with careful pacing, allowing suspense to build organically.
👉The shift in setting to Germany adds both depth and unease to the story. Hamburg is depicted as a place of familiarity tinged with menace, especially during the Christmas season, when warmth and tradition stand in stark contrast to the darkness Reagan is uncovering. Danbury’s attention to atmosphere transforms the city into a living part of the narrative, one that holds memories, secrets, and threats in equal measure.
👉What gives the novel its emotional weight is the powerful portrayal of motherhood. Reagan’s determination to protect her daughter drives every decision she makes, lending urgency and humanity to the suspense. The impending loss of sight becomes more than a medical condition; it is a ticking clock that sharpens every moment and heightens every risk. This emotional core keeps the story grounded even as the mystery grows more disturbing.
👉In the end, Before the Lights Go Out succeeds as both a tense thriller and a deeply human story.
Happy reading 😊
Rating:5/5
Review:
👉This book is a gripping psychological thriller that unfolds with a quiet intensity and steadily tightens its hold on the reader. The novel opens with a deeply unsettling premise, as photographer Reagan Dunkel is forced to confront a hereditary condition that will eventually rob both her and her young daughter of their sight. This revelation alone is enough to ground the story in fear and vulnerability, but Danbury uses it as the foundation for a much darker and more complex narrative.
👉As Reagan struggles to process her diagnosis, the sudden absence of her husband, Fynn, introduces an atmosphere of uncertainty and mistrust. His unexplained silence becomes a constant presence in the story, amplifying Reagan’s isolation and emotional strain. When disturbing details begin to surface within Reagan’s own photographs, the novel takes a chilling turn, suggesting that the danger she faces is not only physical but deeply rooted in her past. The slow unraveling of these truths is handled with careful pacing, allowing suspense to build organically.
👉The shift in setting to Germany adds both depth and unease to the story. Hamburg is depicted as a place of familiarity tinged with menace, especially during the Christmas season, when warmth and tradition stand in stark contrast to the darkness Reagan is uncovering. Danbury’s attention to atmosphere transforms the city into a living part of the narrative, one that holds memories, secrets, and threats in equal measure.
👉What gives the novel its emotional weight is the powerful portrayal of motherhood. Reagan’s determination to protect her daughter drives every decision she makes, lending urgency and humanity to the suspense. The impending loss of sight becomes more than a medical condition; it is a ticking clock that sharpens every moment and heightens every risk. This emotional core keeps the story grounded even as the mystery grows more disturbing.
👉In the end, Before the Lights Go Out succeeds as both a tense thriller and a deeply human story.
Happy reading 😊
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