On Virginia’s Eastern Shore, Edith, a knowledgeable healer spends her day working with herbs and taking care of her home and husband. Soon, strange things start to manifest and she is convinced that she has invited the Devil into her home. Centuries later, Claire returns to her childhood home to care for her sick father and believes that something is beneath the floorboards. Perhaps something from the past is trying to make itself known…
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Turn Off the Light follows two characters, Edith in the 1600s and Claire in the present day, whose lives intertwine in unexpected ways. I’ve always been drawn to the idea that time isn’t strictly linear, that the past, present, and future may be unfolding simultaneously, and it was fascinating to read a novel that leans into that concept.
While the structure might seem confusing or hard to grasp at first, the author truly excels at guiding readers through it. The pacing is strong and each shift in perspective feels intentional and clear. My only critique is the title. It didn’t quite resonate with me or feel fully reflective of the story’s depth and theme. Other than that, this was a captivating read that will stay with me long after.
This was my first 5-star rating in a very long time and I highly recommend it to all book lovers. Even though this story falls within the horror genre, it isn’t especially gory or scary, so if the premise intrigues you, I believe you could still enjoy it even if you don’t typically gravitate towards horror. Thanks to Mulholland Books and Netgalley for this ARC in exchange for my honest review. Get your copy on Amazon today.
Turn Off the Light by Jacquie Walters
Genre: Horror, Mystery/Thriller
Pages: 336
Rating: 5/5
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I do enjoy horror and mystery, and this book sounds quite intriguing. Also, it is great to hear you rated it 5 stars!
It’s my first 5 star read in a long time, so I was thrilled! Thanks for reading Karalee!
Ahh this sounds like the perfect blend of horror and heart, especially with that time-bending twist. Adding this to my TBR immediately because I love a spooky vibe that isn’t too gory but still lingers in your mind long after you finish.
I hope you love it as much as I do! Thanks for reading Candice.
What a compelling premise — the idea of two timelines converging across centuries is fascinating. I love that the author handles the dual narrative with clear pacing rather than letting it become disorienting. It’s also refreshing to hear that a horror novel doesn’t rely on gore to be effective. Adding this to my TBR immediately!
It was executed beautifully. I hope you enjoy it!
This is an intriguing plot. I’ll definitely add this to my TBR.
I hope you enjoy it Lux!
Thank you for this review. I find the concept of time travel fascinating, so that makes the premise of this book an easy win for me. It’s so very interesting to think about how the past can shape the present, sometimes in unexpected ways.
It was so cool and unlike anything I’ve ever read before. I hope you get a chance to check it out Heidi!
The story has an interesting premise. Reading your review makes me want to read it. Thank you for sharing.
PS: I’ve been blocked by X. But I still want to keep in touch with my fellow bloggers. So if I commented on your post, please know that I also have a new post to share. Tq.
Oh no, I hope it gets sorted out! Thanks for reading!
This sounds like an interesting read! Lovely review Winnie.
Thank you Jodie!