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Lighthouse Lane #2
The Hero Next Door
Heroes can be hard to find—
but sometimes they’re closer than you think.
Police detective Justin Clay is on Nantucket for one reason, and one reason only—to regroup, reevaluate, and decompress. He is not in the market for a relationship. Neither is tearoom owner Heather Anderson. But when Justin comes to her aid during a dicey situation, and as they become better acquainted, she can’t help but wonder…could her new neighbor be the exception to her rule—and a man worth loving?
Publishers Weekly bestselling author Irene Hannon, described as “a master of character development” by Library Journal , takes readers back to Nantucket in a story that once again demonstrates the power of love to transform lives.
but sometimes they’re closer than you think.
Police detective Justin Clay is on Nantucket for one reason, and one reason only—to regroup, reevaluate, and decompress. He is not in the market for a relationship. Neither is tearoom owner Heather Anderson. But when Justin comes to her aid during a dicey situation, and as they become better acquainted, she can’t help but wonder…could her new neighbor be the exception to her rule—and a man worth loving?
Publishers Weekly bestselling author Irene Hannon, described as “a master of character development” by Library Journal , takes readers back to Nantucket in a story that once again demonstrates the power of love to transform lives.
232 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2009
199 people are currently reading
477 people want to read
About the author
Irene Hannon
121 books3,009 followersIrene Hannon, who writes both contemporary romance and romantic suspense, is the author of more than 65 novels. Her books have been honored with three coveted RITA awards from Romance Writers of America (the “Oscar” of romance fiction) and she is a member of that organization's elite Hall of Fame. She has also received a Career Achievement award from RT Book Reviews for her entire body of work. Other awards for individual books include National Readers' Choice, HOLT Medallion, Daphne du Maurier, Retailers Choice, Booksellers' Best, and Reviewers' Choice from RT Book Reviews. She is also a two-time Christy award finalist.
Millions of her books have been sold worldwide, and her novels have been translated into multiple languages.
A former corporate communications executive with a Fortune 500 company, Irene now writes full time. To learn more about Irene and her books, visit www.irenehannon.com.
Millions of her books have been sold worldwide, and her novels have been translated into multiple languages.
A former corporate communications executive with a Fortune 500 company, Irene now writes full time. To learn more about Irene and her books, visit www.irenehannon.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
January 30, 2022
I had a rough week. So rough, that I actually reached for this *wanting* sunshine and puffy clouds and luvv. And I expected to be disgusted with it (because, well. Luv Inspired doesn't usually score high, let's face it). But to my surprise, this one's a keeper.
Not because I like the characters - I think I'd hate them in real life. No-nonsense (megalomaniac) cop and hoity-toity tearoom owner are typically NOT my style. They weren't endearing people. And not because of the plot: cop dealing with guilt, tearoom owner with a dad grudge. And not because of the writing - it didn't suck me in, and as with all Luv, Inspired you don't feel romance tingles to your heart, let alone to your toes.
It was the simple fact that the author asked, 'What needs to happen in order for you to forgive'? That one question MADE the book. Most chrischun writers are all about God's love and mercy and us being forgiving, but it never asks the questions that actually facilitate that. It just irrationally expects you to put yourself in hurtful places over and over with no sense of preservation. That drives me crazy.
But every once in a while, an author manages to get it right. Forget the subplots of his brother and her nephew. Nevermind the fact that this uber-Gawdly hero who carries a Bible even to the BEACH has no qualms with falling for a non-believer. Nevermind that the Nantucket PD wouldn't allow his trauma anywhere NEAR their force, friend or not. And nevermind the hardened con wouldn't say "how can you keep loving me?" ((<< general lack of realism in christian novels.)) Nevermind ALL of that - she asked the question.
And that made ALL the difference.
Not because I like the characters - I think I'd hate them in real life. No-nonsense (megalomaniac) cop and hoity-toity tearoom owner are typically NOT my style. They weren't endearing people. And not because of the plot: cop dealing with guilt, tearoom owner with a dad grudge. And not because of the writing - it didn't suck me in, and as with all Luv, Inspired you don't feel romance tingles to your heart, let alone to your toes.
It was the simple fact that the author asked, 'What needs to happen in order for you to forgive'? That one question MADE the book. Most chrischun writers are all about God's love and mercy and us being forgiving, but it never asks the questions that actually facilitate that. It just irrationally expects you to put yourself in hurtful places over and over with no sense of preservation. That drives me crazy.
But every once in a while, an author manages to get it right. Forget the subplots of his brother and her nephew. Nevermind the fact that this uber-Gawdly hero who carries a Bible even to the BEACH has no qualms with falling for a non-believer. Nevermind that the Nantucket PD wouldn't allow his trauma anywhere NEAR their force, friend or not. And nevermind the hardened con wouldn't say "how can you keep loving me?" ((<< general lack of realism in christian novels.)) Nevermind ALL of that - she asked the question.
And that made ALL the difference.
October 26, 2018
Let's see, you've got the tearoom owner who doesn't trust her own judgement of men because infidelity seems to surround the women in her family. You've got the big city cop who blames himself for his failure to raise his brother properly and for getting two of his colleagues killed during a drug bust. And you've got the teenage nephew of the tearoom owner who's upset and mad that his parents have split up and is determined to take it out on whoever is around.
At this point, I'll agree with one of my friends who recently noted that the "teenager who's acting out" has become a too often used character in this genre. I'm also getting a bit tired of the "I like you but there's no way I could be romantically involved with you because . . ." theme that many books in this genre use and carry on a bit too long, probably for the sake of the page count.
I usually enjoy Irene Hannon as an author but perhaps not so much her Love Inspired books as her other books. I did like J.C. as a character overall. He's loyal to those he loves and responsible and trying to do a good job at his job. He's got a conscience--otherwise he wouldn't be so upset by thinking he caused the death of two of his colleagues. Yes, he has his faults, but he's a good man.
I didn't like that Heather seems to have inherited the need for control and order from her mother as well as the stubborn streak. Her family history and these traits contribute to the estrangement from her father. I was glad to see God soften that as well as softening Nathan's heart toward his siblings.
I did read the first book in this series also, though it isn't necessary to have read that one to be able to understand this one.
At this point, I'll agree with one of my friends who recently noted that the "teenager who's acting out" has become a too often used character in this genre. I'm also getting a bit tired of the "I like you but there's no way I could be romantically involved with you because . . ." theme that many books in this genre use and carry on a bit too long, probably for the sake of the page count.
I usually enjoy Irene Hannon as an author but perhaps not so much her Love Inspired books as her other books. I did like J.C. as a character overall. He's loyal to those he loves and responsible and trying to do a good job at his job. He's got a conscience--otherwise he wouldn't be so upset by thinking he caused the death of two of his colleagues. Yes, he has his faults, but he's a good man.
I didn't like that Heather seems to have inherited the need for control and order from her mother as well as the stubborn streak. Her family history and these traits contribute to the estrangement from her father. I was glad to see God soften that as well as softening Nathan's heart toward his siblings.
I did read the first book in this series also, though it isn't necessary to have read that one to be able to understand this one.
July 15, 2025
So refreshing! I loved this story of a traumatized undercover cop who's basically just a really good guy. And the tea shop owner who has family issues. The issues of redemption, forgiveness, and a willingness to both see the truth and give God a chance were wonderful. This isn't preachy at all. It just includes the daily goings on of people who go to church because they want to.
And Therese Plummer - she is always amazing. One of my favorites.
And Therese Plummer - she is always amazing. One of my favorites.
September 29, 2012
Irene Hannon is masterful at presenting the inner struggles of the hero and heroine and how they overcome all obstacles to a happily-ever-after.
January 6, 2013
I've been enjoying the books by Irene Hannon that I've read so far. This is the second book in the Lighthouse series. I like the setting on the island.
November 5, 2021
I'm a fan of Irene Hannon however I struggled to finish this book. This is the second book in the Lighthouse Lane series and I have to question the women who live on Nantucket Island. Like the first book Heather lives in a box and doesn't want anyone else in to change things. Her way is the right and only way.
Heather agrees to have her sister's 13 year old son move in with her because he is getting in trouble and her sister can't control him. WOW! Heather has no experience with raising a child and yet her sister asks her to take this on because she can't handle it. What about having the boy move in with his father for the 3 weeks instead of Heather?
The nephew moves in with Heather and right away gives her a hard time. After the incident with the tea cups he would have been on his way home. When Heather sees his room she demands that he clean it up and that there will be no eating in the room. Shortly after that she brings the kid muffins and milk to his room in hopes of reaching him. Hello, really??
Moving on to her father. Heather did not talk to her father for 20 years because of her parents divorce. She did not know what actually took place between her parents but blamed her father for everything that happened. She was extremely judgmental and unforgiving which gives you an idea of what kind of person she is.
I was not a fan of Heather however I loved JC. He was so good not only to Heather but to his brother and sister.
Being a fan of IH I checked out the three books in the series so there is one more to go. Here's hoping the third book is better than the first two.
Heather agrees to have her sister's 13 year old son move in with her because he is getting in trouble and her sister can't control him. WOW! Heather has no experience with raising a child and yet her sister asks her to take this on because she can't handle it. What about having the boy move in with his father for the 3 weeks instead of Heather?
The nephew moves in with Heather and right away gives her a hard time. After the incident with the tea cups he would have been on his way home. When Heather sees his room she demands that he clean it up and that there will be no eating in the room. Shortly after that she brings the kid muffins and milk to his room in hopes of reaching him. Hello, really??
Moving on to her father. Heather did not talk to her father for 20 years because of her parents divorce. She did not know what actually took place between her parents but blamed her father for everything that happened. She was extremely judgmental and unforgiving which gives you an idea of what kind of person she is.
I was not a fan of Heather however I loved JC. He was so good not only to Heather but to his brother and sister.
Being a fan of IH I checked out the three books in the series so there is one more to go. Here's hoping the third book is better than the first two.
June 13, 2023
3.5 stars
"As best as he could calculate, his foray into the world of afternoon tea had cost him close to two dollars a bite."
Arriving in Nantucket with an appetite, Justin Clay was pleased to see that the house beside his small rental appeared to be a restaurant. Well it was, and then again it wasn't. Filled to the brim with women enjoying fancy finger sandwiches and tiny dessert bites, the most memorable thing about the experience(before he headed to a local burger joint for some real food) was meeting the lovely Heather Anderson, the tea room (so, that was what it was called) owner.
Shaking hands with the handsome Chicago police detective had given Heather a jolt . . . . . of . . . dare she define it as attraction? This was the man her neighbor had mentioned being in their cottage for the next three months? As if the day time introduction wasn't enough to give her heartbeat an uptick, then their unexpected evening investigation into a suspicious rattle in her back yard, trash cans, and feral cats would seal the deal. Heather had no way of knowing that God had sent the very person whom she would need the most . . . right next door.
What a delightful community of characters whose lives intersect across the backyards of life!
"All bitterness, fury, anger, shouting and reviling must be removed from you, along with all malice. Be kind to one another, compassionate, forgiving one another as God has forgiven you in Christ." Ephesians 4:31,32
"As best as he could calculate, his foray into the world of afternoon tea had cost him close to two dollars a bite."
Arriving in Nantucket with an appetite, Justin Clay was pleased to see that the house beside his small rental appeared to be a restaurant. Well it was, and then again it wasn't. Filled to the brim with women enjoying fancy finger sandwiches and tiny dessert bites, the most memorable thing about the experience(before he headed to a local burger joint for some real food) was meeting the lovely Heather Anderson, the tea room (so, that was what it was called) owner.
Shaking hands with the handsome Chicago police detective had given Heather a jolt . . . . . of . . . dare she define it as attraction? This was the man her neighbor had mentioned being in their cottage for the next three months? As if the day time introduction wasn't enough to give her heartbeat an uptick, then their unexpected evening investigation into a suspicious rattle in her back yard, trash cans, and feral cats would seal the deal. Heather had no way of knowing that God had sent the very person whom she would need the most . . . right next door.
What a delightful community of characters whose lives intersect across the backyards of life!
"All bitterness, fury, anger, shouting and reviling must be removed from you, along with all malice. Be kind to one another, compassionate, forgiving one another as God has forgiven you in Christ." Ephesians 4:31,32
November 15, 2018
Content: clean, Christian, mild kissing, references to a drug bust gone bad and two cops killed.
I didn't really love/connect with the characters that much. They weren't overly irritating, but neither were they overly endearing. The story was a bit "ho-hum" and the Christian elements were a bit overdone, even though I do love elements of faith.
With that said, the main redeeming quality that saved the book for me were the questions raised in relation to accepting responsibility for one's own part in a marriage. It always takes two. It's important to realize your shortcomings and mistakes and own them, even if they weren't as bad or as serious as your partner's. One person's major indiscretion does not nullify your mistakes, but neither does it lessen the gravity of the other. Both parties own a share, but not necessarily equal shares.
I love when an author can ask tough questions and get me to think deeply about them. Extra star for that.
I didn't really love/connect with the characters that much. They weren't overly irritating, but neither were they overly endearing. The story was a bit "ho-hum" and the Christian elements were a bit overdone, even though I do love elements of faith.
With that said, the main redeeming quality that saved the book for me were the questions raised in relation to accepting responsibility for one's own part in a marriage. It always takes two. It's important to realize your shortcomings and mistakes and own them, even if they weren't as bad or as serious as your partner's. One person's major indiscretion does not nullify your mistakes, but neither does it lessen the gravity of the other. Both parties own a share, but not necessarily equal shares.
I love when an author can ask tough questions and get me to think deeply about them. Extra star for that.
February 26, 2025
Cop Never Takes Bribe
The second book in the Lighthouse Lane series is an absolute gem, filled with heartwarming moments and swoon-worthy scenes. From the relatable characters to the powerful theme of forgiveness, this story captivates from beginning to end.
One of the standout moments is the proposal, which will leave readers swooning—it's sweet, emotional, and incredibly well-written. The characters feel like real people with flaws, making their growth and journey all the more meaningful. The way the author explores the theme of forgiveness is particularly touching, reminding us that we should never give up on others, just as God never gives up on us.
This book is a beautiful exploration of love, second chances, and redemption. If you enjoy faith-based romance with deep emotional themes, this book is a must-read. The author weaves an inspiring message of hope, making it a truly uplifting experience.
The second book in the Lighthouse Lane series is an absolute gem, filled with heartwarming moments and swoon-worthy scenes. From the relatable characters to the powerful theme of forgiveness, this story captivates from beginning to end.
One of the standout moments is the proposal, which will leave readers swooning—it's sweet, emotional, and incredibly well-written. The characters feel like real people with flaws, making their growth and journey all the more meaningful. The way the author explores the theme of forgiveness is particularly touching, reminding us that we should never give up on others, just as God never gives up on us.
This book is a beautiful exploration of love, second chances, and redemption. If you enjoy faith-based romance with deep emotional themes, this book is a must-read. The author weaves an inspiring message of hope, making it a truly uplifting experience.
July 10, 2024
The Hero Next Door
This is a wonderful book of hope, trust and forgiveness. When Police detective Justin Clay lands on Nantucket for a temporary summer assignment he could not have imagined the turn his future would take. Meeting the tearoom owner Heather Anderson brought a spark into his dark life. They both have difficult pasts that caused them to not be looking for a relationship or settle down for any reason. Until a need arose where Heather needed his help and guidance. Be sure to read this inspirational story.
This is a wonderful book of hope, trust and forgiveness. When Police detective Justin Clay lands on Nantucket for a temporary summer assignment he could not have imagined the turn his future would take. Meeting the tearoom owner Heather Anderson brought a spark into his dark life. They both have difficult pasts that caused them to not be looking for a relationship or settle down for any reason. Until a need arose where Heather needed his help and guidance. Be sure to read this inspirational story.
October 3, 2017
The Lighthouse Lane matchmaker strikes again! This time, the local teahouse owner finds love with a cop on leave from a big city, bad situation. Heather has no trust in men and Justin is in despair over his family and his job.
Edith has arranged for JC to stay nearby and he and Heather can't help but run into each other. Add in one troubled teenager, another troubled sibling and an estranged dad and there are a lot of ties that need to be reinforced. It happens, though.
Edith has arranged for JC to stay nearby and he and Heather can't help but run into each other. Add in one troubled teenager, another troubled sibling and an estranged dad and there are a lot of ties that need to be reinforced. It happens, though.
September 22, 2024
This was ok, but a bit more religious than I usually like. But it wasn't that thick.
This is a romance on an island between a big city cop and a tea room owner. It follows the script of romance books, the meeting where both are smitten and then have conflict based on fear of falling in love with each other. Stir in the bad-tempered teenager who really needs some TLC and you have the mix.
Love is in the AIR!!!!
3.4 stars
Happy Reading!
This is a romance on an island between a big city cop and a tea room owner. It follows the script of romance books, the meeting where both are smitten and then have conflict based on fear of falling in love with each other. Stir in the bad-tempered teenager who really needs some TLC and you have the mix.
Love is in the AIR!!!!
3.4 stars
Happy Reading!
August 1, 2018
this edition came from the ebook library. Trying to read as much Irene's books as I can. Heather and JC's story in Lighthouse Lane series. Enjoyed the story. Duty and responsibility call do they take it on. Throw them back when being difficult. Secondary character Edith is meddlesome but out of love.
May 28, 2019
Good story. I only wish so many of these didn’t have Christians falling for unbelievers. In real life, that rarely works out. More importantly, it violates a biblical command. I do appreciate a clean love story and extra interests with the family dynamic/plot twist. It’s well written.
January 5, 2022
Chicago cop Justin Clay is on leave if asbence and vacationing in Nantucket trying to find answers only God can answer. Heather Anderson is a tea shop owner who lives next door. They got tons of chemistry but both live shy until Heather's trouble nephew comes to town and it just may take Heather and J. C. Working together to help her nephew.
September 6, 2024
Really love the second book in this series, Justin and Heather's story was lovely and they both really suited each other. I loved the way they supported each other to assist Heather's nethew and also the way they started to overcome there own pasts. Again there was a lovely Christian element to the story. Looking forward to Marcie and Nathon's stories.
August 6, 2017
Loving this series. A bit different from a beloved romantic suspense, but the internal struggles are real. There is tension in the story, but it isn't there for long. For me it's a nice change compared to what I normally read.
January 21, 2022
It's about forgiveness and reconciliation
It was good to see how the author broke down the barriers around Heather's heart. There were a lot of loose ends tied up (I only wanted to see the ring).
It was good to see how the author broke down the barriers around Heather's heart. There were a lot of loose ends tied up (I only wanted to see the ring).
August 31, 2024
En hyggelig og underholdende roman, uden de store overraskelser. Han er fremmed og hun har en thesalon. Lækker fyr - smuk kvinde. Så må man gætte sig til resten!
Med min favorit oplæser Therese Plummer.
Med min favorit oplæser Therese Plummer.
October 28, 2024
Irene’s stories are always heartwarming and fun and it’s my goal to catch up on all her backlist books. This had a really good storyline and relatable characters. Enjoyed this reissued story from Irene.
November 28, 2019
Always a Satisfying Read
I can always depend on Ms. Hannon to craft a story that rugs at the heart strings and buoys my faith.
I can always depend on Ms. Hannon to craft a story that rugs at the heart strings and buoys my faith.
March 16, 2020
Good read ! ❤
September 10, 2020
another surprisingly sweet book by irene hammon. Very much enjoyed it though this was a little darker than the last book i read by her. Still it is one i recommend and will read again
October 14, 2020
Good clean romantic story
Even when I know the inevitable outcome, the side stories bring the characters to life.
Grab a copy to read for yourself!
Even when I know the inevitable outcome, the side stories bring the characters to life.
Grab a copy to read for yourself!
March 17, 2021
Again you have written a great book. Could not put it down.
September 12, 2022
Not a five star read because it tires to justify cheating
June 28, 2023
Good story. Enjoyable. Disappointed that characters from book one were not more involved in this book.
August 5, 2023
I enjoyed reading this book. Great characters and setting. I liked the insights on forgiveness and on not giving up on those you love.
October 23, 2023
Llvely story
Just an easy read story of love hope and overcoming difficult circumstances. The chzra were well chosen and very strong people. Nice ending too
Just an easy read story of love hope and overcoming difficult circumstances. The chzra were well chosen and very strong people. Nice ending too
Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews