The House on Foster Hill

I really liked this book. Lots of suspense and thrilling moments. I really liked the mystery...both present day and in the past and how the two are linked together. I didn't mind the back-and-forth chapters between the present and the past. There were times, however, when I had to stop and think about which time period I was reading. But other than that, it flowed really well. I have to say that the pieces of the puzzle slowly came together. While you might suspect who was doing what, you're not certain until the very end. And the mystery from both time periods is revealed at the end. So you're left wondering through the whole book. That's something I really like in a mystery! I will definitely be reading more of this author's books.

How does a reader categorize this book? Mystery, suspense, psychological thriller, dual-timeline, a hint of romance, or perhaps it's a bit of all of these combined? Whatever you want to call it, Wright is brilliant in the telling of it! Her descriptions are crisp, fresh, and snap with life. Phrases I don't often see authors use to describe things painted a vivid picture in my mind. For a debut novel, it reads as a seasoned best seller! Each chapter hooked me on a high until I was breathless to find out what happens next. I could not turn pages fast enough. The House on Foster Hill connects two women a hundred years apart as they strive to unravel the mystery surrounding it. Will it give up its secrets easily, or will it want to keep them buried like the women Ivy writes about in her “death diary”? Each clue found seems random at first, but the pieces slowly knit together like a crochet needle fashioning a scarf. But someone or something fights to keep playing mind games with Ivy & Kaine. Creepy much? Definitely sent shivers tickling up my spine and made me wonder why exactly it mattered to find the history buried deep within it walls. When swirling script is found written on a copy of Great Escapes within the house, it fleshes out a woman named Gabreilla—murdered at the hands of a madman. Ivy follows clues with the help of an old childhood friend while Kaine digs deeper in her family history to fill in the holes left centuries ago. There's also the underlying desire for hope in both women's hearts, hope that seems much too far away to grasp. But is it?? Through her death, Gabreilla teaches that hope doesn't come from within but without, as witnessed by this line: “My eyes see beyond today, beyond my circumstances in a world jaded and scarred by sin. I see into Heaven. And it is beautiful. And it is good. It is my future. There is no despair in eternity, in God's presence, in His perfection. There is only hope. He is my hope. “ When I read that it slammed into me, temporarily taking my breath away! What a brilliant way to describe how to keep our eyes on the One who can give us hope beyond where we are. Beyond anything we will encounter in this life. Authors who remind me of God's promises in the pages of their stories are those who I love the most. Not only will they provide an escape from life in printed words, but who satiate our souls with Truth. I found many such lines that deeply touched me and still linger well after I've finished. Wright is now on my automatic-read authors and I will highly endorse her books to others. Her next novels are already on my “must-read-now” list! Other favorite lines: “That was why Gabriella was so compelling. Her story had sucked Kaine in. Gabriella was someone who truly grabbed hold of God's hand when life threw curveballs. No. Not even curveballs. Fireballs, really. What life attempted to destroy, God only made stronger. Gabriella's strength reflected her story. “ “Someday I will see His face and all of this will wash away. What will I leave behind? What will my legacy leave? I choose hope. ~Gabriella” “Gabriella was definitely held at that house against her will, based on what we've read in her writings that we found at the house,” Grant finished. “The amazing thing is, whoever she was, she had faith that could move mountains. She saw hope where most women would see abandonment.” “See?” Joy poked her fork in Kaine's direction. “Hope isn't a waste of time, sweetie. You've got to cling to

A good debut book from this author. I like the way it was written giving equal time to the two timeframes. However, it did start off very slow for me, and I almost didn't finish it. But I decided to continue on and was glad I did. It finally picked up its pace and had some interesting twists in the story. I would definitely read future books by this author.

My first book by Jamie Jo Wright. Be ready because it’s good! Scary but not too..creepy which I love. Love the descriptions of the House on Foster Hill and the way things of old were found. Murder and mystery with a dual story line that intersects with the people and the House. A little romance in midst of it all too. Be ready for the unexpected twist and turns that happens. Will the murders be solved or will they come to a dead end? Ha! You will have to read the book to find out. I bought the ebook when it was on sale because I didn’t know if I would like it much, but...Oh Me! I loved it! I found a new to me author.

Excellent book from a debut author. This is a dual timeline book, which is a 50/50 shot for me. Wright included an excellent amount of each story line before switching time frames, which allowed me to be drawn into the story, and able to feel like both timelines were moving at a great pace. Wonderful, realistic mystery, and I will definitely pursue additional books by Wright.

Excellent read! I was hooked frim the beginning. Really enjoyed the transitions between Ivy's past story to Kaine's present-day story. Can't wait for Jaime's next book to be released!

If you've ever made a rash decision out of fear you'll be able to relate to Kaine Prescott. She's experienced a series of events that have led up to her choice to flee to a new start. Her husband recently died and Kaine is convinced he was murdered and the murderer is now stalking her. Sight unseen she buy a house in her grandfathers hometown. She should have done a little more homework before writing the check. The term money pit it an understatement. The house is in such pitiful shape that she can't even stay there until she does some repairs . . . starting with adding a front door. Running from her problems doesn't seem to be working. She thinks her husband's killer has followed her and the house itself holds a mystery from the past. I enjoyed this debut novel from Jaime Jo Wright. It is a romantic suspense so there's a hunky guy involved but that relationship doesn't take anything away from the mystery and intrigue. I loved Kaine's tenacity in the face of mounting adversity. Most women would pack their bags but Kaine put on her big girl panties and faced it. If The House on Foster Hill is any indication of Ms. Wright's skill we're in for a treat with her forthcoming novels. I recommend this book to anyone that's ever been in over their head with a home improvement project, scared out of their wits by something out of their control, or just plain loves a suspenseful story. This one is a delight with two different storylines that converge into one. I received a copy of this book to facilitate my review.

The House on Foster Hill is a page-turning read! I love dual time period novels, and this intriguing tale kept me riveted in both the past and the present. From the well-crafted characters to the intricate plot, I delighted in this outstanding debut novel. Jaime Jo Wright is an author to follow, and I can’t wait for her next release! I received a complimentary copy of this book. No review was required, and all thoughts expressed are my own.

I am a very picky reader. I don't give good reviews to books I don't like.... AND I LOVED THIS ONE! The House on Foster Hill was a great time slip read with two stories intertwined. I love the way Jaime gets you invested with both sets of characters. As you get to know each of their stories, you fall in love with them all. Since they are all interconnected in the end, it's good that you have a friendship with both sets of characters. I have to also say how much I appreciated a character with DS who was included in the story. It was great to read about Megan and her hardworking, sweet personality. I have several friends and a family member with DS, and the author did a great job of not limiting Megan's efforts to help the contemporary characters in their refurbishing of Foster Hill House. Individuals with DS are honestly some of the most hardworking people I've ever met. Thank you, Jaime.

I was curious about this book and was not sure if I liked it. I persevered to discover intrigue, suspense, and romance. The further I read, I grew to care about the characters and their dilemmas. The House on Foster Hill contains two story lines about the same home from different periods, the present and the 1800s. Kaine seriously seeks a new beginning but finds the home she purchased, sight unseen, a dilapidated money pit. It seems her past has followed her across the country and danger lurks in her new surroundings. Will this be her home or should she abandon her refurbishing plans? Ivy finds a dead girl on the Foster Hill property. What can she do to solve the murder mystery and the obscure home? Who wants her to stop investigating? Are there unknown secrets to uncover? ~I received a copy from Net Galley. I was not compensated for this review. All thoughts are my own.

Oh my lanta! I feel like I have been through the wringer and back on this one. In a very fantastic way! The very first pages suck you in and take you along for a mysterious and spine-tingling ride. The characters are so endearing and very well thought out. They have become family to me and I couldn’t help but feel their pain, fears and joys while reading their story. The emotions and struggles of both Ivy and Kaine, in their respective eras, are perfectly done to reach your heart. Grant and Joel are swoon-worthy heroes who know how to take care of their women. There are no words to describe the house and all its intricacies! I could picture every nook and cranny, step and board that has a part in this gothic-like tale. So deep and detailed it was easy to get lost in the pages. The issue that surrounds this story is a real struggle in our society today and this author touches on it perfectly with seriousness. I did not find the dual timelines confusing at all – I thought this author did it rather well compared to some I have read. This is a new author who is going to go far and become a well-loved spot on my bookshelf. I was given this book and was not required to give any sort of positive review. I voluntarily have.

Kaine Prescott needed a break. The stress of her job counselling (rescuing?) abused women was taking its toll, and creating interesting life experiences with the men from whom they were rescued. Including threats, intimidation, psychological warfare and physical confrontations. Buying a house, sight unseen, based on the recommendation of a friend of a friend, probably wasn’t a good way to begin. And when she finds out that her family has a “history” with the dark mansion, she begins to question her sanity. And yet Kaine finds herself waking up to faith. Waking up to hope. Waking up to the realization that God is more than just a name in a book that she hasn’t opened in a long time. And by the time the last chapter has been written, the reader is going to come to the same realization. Travelling through time is possible. It’s also exhausting, and emotionally draining. And it’s one of the most effective means of ensuring that you have a totally captive audience. Brava, Jaime Jo Wright! You’ve succeeded. While I’ve read books that have employed this formula before, I’ve never seen it articulated so effectively, or so seamlessly. This is a large book, close to 400 pages. However, every page, every paragraph, contributes to the flow of the story. Soon, you will ask yourself, “Am I reading . . . or am I experiencing events along with the other characters?” One other detail worth mentioning . . . the house is a character, as well. And the house grows and develops much as the other characters in the story. I’ve always found such details to be the trademark of some of the most excellent literature. This is Jaime Jo Wright’s debut novel . . . and I’m looking forward to many more stories from this gifted author. I received this book in exchange for my honest review. 5 stars for a story that will hold you until the very last page.

This was a great read. It was one of those stories that pulled me right in and dared me to walk away. I didn’t take that dare. It was suspenseful and gripping. It surprised me and grabbed my emotions. It had descriptions that pulled me so far into the story that I didn’t even remember that I am a reader who skips over descriptions that are more than one line. It was that good. Full review is at my website. I received this book in a giveaway. I was not required to give a review. All of the opinions I have expressed are my own.

In her debut, dual timeline novel, Jaime Jo Wright offers page-turning suspense that keeps readers engaged across both storylines. Highly recommend this for anyone who wants a rich, engrossing read!

The House on Foster Hill, Jaime Jo Wright’s debut novel, is a riveting twist on the gothic novel, and it’s deliciously intense! The dual timelines add to the intensity, and the writing is vivid and multi-dimensional. The layers in both eras, centered around the abandoned house and an old book, are skillfully drawn and powerfully connected. What I loved most of all is how Ivy’s story connects with Kaine’s. Not just as it relates to their mutual connection to each other & to Foster Hill House but in the way they both inadvertently are affected by – and end up championing – the same cause. It’s something very close to my own heart, and I really appreciated that the author chose this underlying theme. Yes, it’s gritty and raw and emotional sometimes, but it doesn’t hang so heavy over the plot that you feel suffocated by it. It’s presented with lots of grace, not to take the edge off the pain so as to minimize the heartbreak… but to remind us Whose holy heart breaks over it too. And despite the horrors connected to the house, despite the horrors that Kaine herself has witnessed, a voice from the past gently speaks hope into the darkness: “I choose to believe… I know God’s presence here. Even in darkness, He is here… Someday I will see His face and all of this will wash away… I choose hope.” And we can’t forget the main character of this novel – the house itself. Wright does such a phenomenal job of setting the scene with delicious descriptors like, “Cavernous windows opened in a silent scream on the face of the Gothic house tilted on the crest of Foster Hill. Its gables towered as if to mock her, and balconies curved in permanent, evil grins.” You will want to devour this in one sitting, if possible, because once this house – and Wright’s effective mood-setting – gets a hold of you, you won’t be able to put it down. Bottom Line: The House on Foster Hill is a stunning debut from Jaime Jo Wright! Its gothic feel and intriguing characters wrap around the reader like an old quilt, begging them to read this novel while curled up near a warm fire. The dual timelines are handled with skill, seamlessly connected and yet distinct. Both Ivy and Kaine are relatable and compelling heroines, while Joel and Grant nicely complement their respective female counterparts. (Joel grew on me faster than Grant but I ended up really liking both of them.) Grace and hope permeate these pages, even in the middle of the intense suspense and the darkness that has cloaked Foster Hill for too long. If you’re a fan of Carrie Stuart Parks, Sandra Boyd, or Mike Nappa, you need to read The House on Foster Hill. (I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)

I received this book from Bethany House Publishers for an honest review and oh my goodness I found this SO entertaining. I honestly haven't read a mystery type book in awhile that I couldn't put down. I loved the two different (interconnecting) stories. I wanted to know what happened to Ivy, I wanted to know what was going to happen to Kaine. I also loved that the romances weren't too romantic and that there was a belief that one could overcome any obstacle if they had hope and faith. This was truly mesmerizing.

It’s 1906 and Ivy Thorpe stumbles onto an investigation of an unidentified young woman found in a tree on the grounds of the spooky house on Foster Hill. Ivy’s gentle spirit forms a bond with this woman and tries desperately to find out what happened to her and her lost baby while dealing with the loss of her own brother. She works with Detective Joel Cunningham to figure out exactly what went on in the deserted house. However, will she find herself in the clutches of evil if she’s not careful? In present day, Kaine Prescott purchases a fixer-upper. However, when she arrives at her new home, she discovers something unimaginable. An eerie house surrounded by a mysterious past and Kaine struggles to comprehend that it’s now hers. To top it off, it seems like her past has followed her and her stalker is around every corner. With the help of Grant Jesse, she looks into the mystery of Foster Hill House. Are her and Ivy’s pasts intertwined? And will the mystery surrounding both catch up with her before it’s too late? The House on Foster Hill is a Gothic delight! It grabbed me from page one and held me in its clutches until the very last page. Ms. Wright is an excellent storyteller and this debut novel proves it. I loved the time switching from 1906 and Ivy to present day and Kaine. The connections between the two were intriguing. The plot is solid and will keep the reader turning the pages to find out what happens next. This novel has a little bit of everything—romance, intrigue, and suspense. The imagery used throughout was superb. To picture the haunted mansion with its creaky stairs, old pictures of family members who eyes follow you, secret doors, and a piano that had recently been played. These descriptions places the reader right into the mansion and you find yourself holding your breath as you creep around the next corner. The characters jump off the page and resonate with the reader. Well done! I loved this debut novel and can’t wait for the next installment in the series. I give The House on Foster Hill five haunted houses. It’s one book you may want to read with the light on! **Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. in exchange for my honest review.

I really enjoyed this book It was a little more thriller than mystery and while Wright alluded to deep, dark evil, it wasn't with graphic or explicit details. The sense of evil was there yet it wasn't scary enough that I couldn't go to sleep. Now I did wake up in the middle of the night and pick it back up to see what was going to happen next so there was definitely suspense that drew me into the story. The story shifts between Kaine, a California widow who is running from a stalker that nobody else believes actually exists, and Ivy, her great-great-grandmother who is caught up in the middle of the murder of a mysterious woman back in the 1800's. The book unfolds by shifting between the time lines and Kaine's and Ivy's points-of-view. I thought this structure lended itself very well to the story and the way the separate mysteries intertwined and even built on each other was really interesting. The villain was a complete surprise and masterfully handled One thing I really enjoyed was the way Wright shed light on the very serious issue of human trafficking. This is not a new plight that women and children have faced in recent decades; it continues to exist and as a society we tend to turn our eyes away from it, as if ignoring it will make it go away. I received an eARC copy of this book from the publisher. Here is my honest review.