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Sons of Vigilance #2
Beau on the Bayou
A romantic suspense that showcases beauty found in the midst of struggle.
Laurelin Dedeaux Holt’s deep roots and robust family legacy serve her well on the day her world comes crashing down. She needs the tenacity of a Mississippi live oak when her husband’s secret life leaves her a widow and single mother. After months of picking up the pieces, Laurelin finds unexpected hope for her future, but Ethan’s enemies have other plans for her.
Rian Flynn’s singular focus is building his career—until the day Laurelin Holt blows into his life with her cynical humor and spellbinding eyes. Soon he must face his own buried fears with vigilance and determination as he treads the murky waters surrounding this rebel disguised as a Southern belle.
With vengeful drug lords, a faceless serial killer, and the ghosts of Laurelin’s past lurking in the shadows of the Gulf Coast, will Rian and Laurelin grow stronger together or be ripped apart by trouble as relentless as galeforce winds?
Laurelin Dedeaux Holt’s deep roots and robust family legacy serve her well on the day her world comes crashing down. She needs the tenacity of a Mississippi live oak when her husband’s secret life leaves her a widow and single mother. After months of picking up the pieces, Laurelin finds unexpected hope for her future, but Ethan’s enemies have other plans for her.
Rian Flynn’s singular focus is building his career—until the day Laurelin Holt blows into his life with her cynical humor and spellbinding eyes. Soon he must face his own buried fears with vigilance and determination as he treads the murky waters surrounding this rebel disguised as a Southern belle.
With vengeful drug lords, a faceless serial killer, and the ghosts of Laurelin’s past lurking in the shadows of the Gulf Coast, will Rian and Laurelin grow stronger together or be ripped apart by trouble as relentless as galeforce winds?
311 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 8, 2024
8 people are currently reading
86 people want to read
About the author
Hannah Hood Lucero
10 books98 followersHANNAH HOOD LUCERO is a wife, mom of three, Army veteran, and self-proclaimed word-slinger. While it is the brackish waters of the Mississippi Sound that flow through her veins, western North Carolina holds her heart. Her love for storytelling is the fruit of a lifetime of cultivation in the vibrant cultures of the Gulf Coast and the Blue Ridge Mountains. She currently resides in South Mississippi with her husband and three children on their ten-acre homestead. They have one dog, thirteen chickens, and at least fifty species of mosquitos, depending on the month of the year. When she isn’t in the garden, at the stove, or homeschooling, she can be found at her computer—just follow the sound of frenetic typing. Her motto is, “Draft, edit, read, repeat.”
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
January 15, 2024
Another good book by Hannah Hood Lucero that gives you a romance mixed with suspense and the grace of God.
January 8, 2024
I loved the characters in this book! The dynamic between Laurelin and Rian was so sweet, and I loved how he encouraged her and admired her strength even while she worked through bitterness over the trauma of her past. Both of their character arcs were very strong; I loved their growth and how it tied in with their walk with God. The side characters were also well-rounded and interesting in their own right.
The setting of an old Antebellum mansion added mystery and flavor to the story. And the danger and disaster brought on by the drug dealers kept me turning pages. Although I'm usually a historical fiction reader, Lucero is roping me in to contemporary romantic suspense a little more with each book of this series. Her courageous yet tender male heroes and strong yet feminine heroines, clear Gospel-centered messages, and page-turning action make her an author I am sure to follow for years to come.
The setting of an old Antebellum mansion added mystery and flavor to the story. And the danger and disaster brought on by the drug dealers kept me turning pages. Although I'm usually a historical fiction reader, Lucero is roping me in to contemporary romantic suspense a little more with each book of this series. Her courageous yet tender male heroes and strong yet feminine heroines, clear Gospel-centered messages, and page-turning action make her an author I am sure to follow for years to come.
December 22, 2023
Beau on the Bayou continues the thrilling family saga of the Flynn brothers in another gripping romantic suspense. Rife with family secrets, betrayals, and Southern charm, Hannah Hood Lucero will have you flying through the pages.
June 25, 2024
The beginning of this book had me on the edge of my seat and the unexpected twists and turns kept me right there! No spoilers, but there were some things I definitely did not see coming! Another great addition to the Sons of Vigilance series.
February 18, 2024
Another edge-of-your-seat read from Hannah Hood Lucero! From the very beginning, she places the question of who can be trusted. Just when you think someone’s good, they make you doubt it, but then later doubt your doubt. Laurelin and Riann were so great together and I truly enjoyed the relationship they had with Laurelin’s son and all the family. There were several characters I was curious to know more at the end and I’m hoping they’ll come back in future novels.
January 24, 2024
The author graciously sent me an ARC to read. I thank her so so much for the opportunity to read about Laurelin and Rian.
I have my new favorite leading lady: Laurelin. She is a firecracker with a very disturbing past, and I love her character growth in this story!! And Rian? Swoon. The man has his flaws, but so many wonderful strengths including his love for God and his father-like love for Joe.
There is insta-attraction, BUT it was done really really well. The characters had a realistic timeline for falling in love. I wish I could forget this story so I could reread it again!!!
The mystery in the novel also drew me in and had a tight grip on me. What was Ethan's deal? And who is trailing Laurelin? And will slimy Davis get over the past?
The Cajun French was a nice touch. I grew up in Louisiana; even though Beau takes place in Mississippi, there were so many things that hearkened back to my childhood. Lucero did her research.
I am so glad that Beau on the Bayou is my first finished novel of 2024. I cannot wait to learn more about the Flynn brothers!!!! Give this a chance and read it!!!
I have my new favorite leading lady: Laurelin. She is a firecracker with a very disturbing past, and I love her character growth in this story!! And Rian? Swoon. The man has his flaws, but so many wonderful strengths including his love for God and his father-like love for Joe.
There is insta-attraction, BUT it was done really really well. The characters had a realistic timeline for falling in love. I wish I could forget this story so I could reread it again!!!
The mystery in the novel also drew me in and had a tight grip on me. What was Ethan's deal? And who is trailing Laurelin? And will slimy Davis get over the past?
The Cajun French was a nice touch. I grew up in Louisiana; even though Beau takes place in Mississippi, there were so many things that hearkened back to my childhood. Lucero did her research.
I am so glad that Beau on the Bayou is my first finished novel of 2024. I cannot wait to learn more about the Flynn brothers!!!! Give this a chance and read it!!!
February 29, 2024
I loved every minute of this book! I adore an instant attraction and romance and Hood pulled it off flawlessly! The tension was perfect, faith elements strong and realistic, and action just right to keep me in the edge of my seat. I’m diving into the next Flynn brothers novel asap!
January 10, 2024
Beau on the Bayou
From a bridge in Houston to the banks of the Mississippi Gulf Coast, Beau on the Bayou takes Laurelin Dedeaux Holt on a journey of grief, betrayal, and loss of faith in God. But her strong Cajun roots give her the stamina to hope that things can eventually turn around when she meets Rian Flynn, who is dealing with ghosts from the past himself. In Beau on the Bayou, Hannah Hood Lucero beautifully creates a story of healing, redemption, and a God who never fails.
From a bridge in Houston to the banks of the Mississippi Gulf Coast, Beau on the Bayou takes Laurelin Dedeaux Holt on a journey of grief, betrayal, and loss of faith in God. But her strong Cajun roots give her the stamina to hope that things can eventually turn around when she meets Rian Flynn, who is dealing with ghosts from the past himself. In Beau on the Bayou, Hannah Hood Lucero beautifully creates a story of healing, redemption, and a God who never fails.
January 4, 2026
Hannah Hood Lucero’s Sons of Vigilance series is about five brothers and is filled with action, romance, and witty banter. Beau on the Bayou, the second installment, follows Rian and his budding relationship with Laurelin, a young widowed mom. Think Irish engineer who doesn’t date with a bitter, rough and tumble southern belle who is mad at God. Now add in an old Mississippi house and a drug trafficking ring and you’ve got the makings of Beau on the Bayou.
I liked Beau in the Bayou one more than Already in the Kudzu because the romantic parts were more well-placed and less awkward. Laurelin’s struggle with her faith is realistic as is her coming back to Jesus. I loved seeing how Rian prays for her when he doesn’t know what else to do. That’s a lesson a lot of us need to learn: we aren’t in control but know the One who is so praying should be the first course of action. There is a plot twist that I didn’t see coming that kept me turning the pages well into the night.
I haven’t cried when reading a book in a while, but my emotions ran the gamut in the first two books of this series. I’ve snorted in laughter and have had tears streaming down my face. My favorite parts were 100% when the Flynn family gathers together. Their family dynamic is just so entertaining. The way the Flynns and the other families in this series love and support each other is what a Christ-centered family should look like.
I’m already almost a quarter of the way through the third book and can’t wait to share!!!! Be sure to add this series to your TBR.
I liked Beau in the Bayou one more than Already in the Kudzu because the romantic parts were more well-placed and less awkward. Laurelin’s struggle with her faith is realistic as is her coming back to Jesus. I loved seeing how Rian prays for her when he doesn’t know what else to do. That’s a lesson a lot of us need to learn: we aren’t in control but know the One who is so praying should be the first course of action. There is a plot twist that I didn’t see coming that kept me turning the pages well into the night.
I haven’t cried when reading a book in a while, but my emotions ran the gamut in the first two books of this series. I’ve snorted in laughter and have had tears streaming down my face. My favorite parts were 100% when the Flynn family gathers together. Their family dynamic is just so entertaining. The way the Flynns and the other families in this series love and support each other is what a Christ-centered family should look like.
I’m already almost a quarter of the way through the third book and can’t wait to share!!!! Be sure to add this series to your TBR.
January 28, 2025
*deep sigh* i love this series so much!
The high highs and low lows. The author does an amazing job of teleporting the audience right into the thick, meaty emotions that come from dealing with serious peril, fear, and trauma. Even though I can’t relate to the level of difficulties the characters face, their emotions are described so well, i am transported flawlessly and on the edge of my seat crying and rejoicing and empathizing as they battle things like feeling like a man/husband when you aren’t able to protect someone, and bitterness when you feel like God has forgotten or forsaken you.
I love the no nonsense, brutal honesty, total transparency of Laurelin and the gentle thoughtfulness and protectiveness of Rian. And how they each have a weakness for each other (dimples and lip biting haha). And the supportive, unconditional love of healthy family relationships are soo good!!
I will definitely need to buy every single one of these books in the series. I love this family and how the demons they face are different and yet they are there to support their brothers and their soon to be sisters-in-laws.
The high highs and low lows. The author does an amazing job of teleporting the audience right into the thick, meaty emotions that come from dealing with serious peril, fear, and trauma. Even though I can’t relate to the level of difficulties the characters face, their emotions are described so well, i am transported flawlessly and on the edge of my seat crying and rejoicing and empathizing as they battle things like feeling like a man/husband when you aren’t able to protect someone, and bitterness when you feel like God has forgotten or forsaken you.
I love the no nonsense, brutal honesty, total transparency of Laurelin and the gentle thoughtfulness and protectiveness of Rian. And how they each have a weakness for each other (dimples and lip biting haha). And the supportive, unconditional love of healthy family relationships are soo good!!
I will definitely need to buy every single one of these books in the series. I love this family and how the demons they face are different and yet they are there to support their brothers and their soon to be sisters-in-laws.
December 26, 2023
The second in Lucero’s Sons of Vigilance series does not disappoint! The second book starts with heart stopping suspense that leads to a story of tragedy and triumph over bitterness and defeat through faith restored. Woven into the novel are unexpected twists and turns. Lucero keeps you guessing who the good guys are and who are the bad guys.
The depiction of cryptic deep south roots and established old money snobbery brings many emotions, most of which leave you laughing and rooting for the main characters.
The characters suffer from many of the same issues that we all face- anger, hurt, betrayal and failure. But the resolution of those issues is eventually made through sensitivity of the characters to the faith in which they were raised.
Beau on the Bayou is another 5-star romantic suspense read.
I was given an advanced copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
The depiction of cryptic deep south roots and established old money snobbery brings many emotions, most of which leave you laughing and rooting for the main characters.
The characters suffer from many of the same issues that we all face- anger, hurt, betrayal and failure. But the resolution of those issues is eventually made through sensitivity of the characters to the faith in which they were raised.
Beau on the Bayou is another 5-star romantic suspense read.
I was given an advanced copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
March 2, 2024
I loved the first book in this series, and the second did not disappoint! This story had a sweet insta love romance element between two characters who each had baggage to overcome, and the romance arc was compelling and enjoyable. Lucero writes believable insta love you can get behind and cheer for as a reader.
This book follows through on family dynamics she set up in the first book and they just get better as you go. There's an exciting thriller arc with some mystery elements, a few surprises along the way that keep the pages turning, and beautiful faith arcs and elements.
Can't wait for all the books in this series!
This book follows through on family dynamics she set up in the first book and they just get better as you go. There's an exciting thriller arc with some mystery elements, a few surprises along the way that keep the pages turning, and beautiful faith arcs and elements.
Can't wait for all the books in this series!
June 7, 2024
I really wanted to like this book more than I did. I just could not connect with the main character. I understand what the author was trying to achieve with her character, but it was way too over the top and exaggerated for me. I didn't like her character at all and found her to be annoying and melodramatic. I also feel as if there was far too much packed into the last couple chapters in the book. The author felt it necessary to go back and put a neat bow on every little loose end left and there was way too much happening at once. Just not my cup of tea, but based on other reviews, it seems there are plenty out there that would disagree with me.
August 27, 2024
Gritty. Suspenseful. Romantic. And filled with Snark (looking at you Lauralin). This is where Lucero books shine. Flawed characters finding love despite hardship and centering that relationship on Christ.
Rian is her best MMC yet, with his understanding and patience toward Lauralin. While Lauralin is broken with a facade of wit and strength, I enjoyed her character's faith and personal arc.
Excited for the next Flynn Bro novel
Rian is her best MMC yet, with his understanding and patience toward Lauralin. While Lauralin is broken with a facade of wit and strength, I enjoyed her character's faith and personal arc.
Excited for the next Flynn Bro novel
December 22, 2023
Hannah Hood Lucero is at it again, gripping you from first page to last. Laurelin and Rian will have you laughing, crying and and gasping with this page turner of a suspense. You’ll find it hard to put down Beau on the Bayou once you start it.
I had the privilege of reading an advance copy of Beau on the Bayou, all comments are my own.
I had the privilege of reading an advance copy of Beau on the Bayou, all comments are my own.
February 5, 2024
Hannah Hood Lucero delivers again! Rian and Laurelin's story takes the reader on an emotional roller coaster with Lucero's trademark swoony romance, realistic and loveable characters, hilarious banter, and a powerful faith message. This time, she added intriguing mystery and history to the mix, guaranteeing a read that will draw you in from page one.
Can't wait for book 3!
Can't wait for book 3!
March 4, 2024
"Pain shot through her stomach, reminding her of all that loving Ethan Holt had cost her - all that God had taken. She grabbed the Bible and sent it flying to the same spot on the wall before succumbing to the soul-crushing, anguish that engulfed her with more force and finality than the Buffalo Bayou."
From the very first chapter, this book takes you on a wild ride as you try to determine who can be trusted. That was definitely Laurelin's problem - she trusted her husband and that did not end well for him and almost for her. She certainly did not plan on being a single mom.
Rian is known as the steady one of his brothers. But when a young widow needs his help, he knows that he can step up. Can the two of them figure out what is happening on the bayou?
This is such a great book. Perfect combination of suspense with a bit of romance. Laurelin has a feisty personality that adds such life to the book. Rian is so supportive of her. I love all of the family dynamics. And the romance is sweetly intense as the two were not looking for each other.
After all of her experiences, Laurelin has some serious bitterness. Watching her process this is an important element in the book as she learns to trust again. Trying to determine who to trust is challenging. So many unexpected parts kept me guessing.
This book could be read as a stand-alone, but I am glad that I read the other book first. I couldn't put this book down. So glad that it was available on Kindle Unlimited.
From the very first chapter, this book takes you on a wild ride as you try to determine who can be trusted. That was definitely Laurelin's problem - she trusted her husband and that did not end well for him and almost for her. She certainly did not plan on being a single mom.
Rian is known as the steady one of his brothers. But when a young widow needs his help, he knows that he can step up. Can the two of them figure out what is happening on the bayou?
This is such a great book. Perfect combination of suspense with a bit of romance. Laurelin has a feisty personality that adds such life to the book. Rian is so supportive of her. I love all of the family dynamics. And the romance is sweetly intense as the two were not looking for each other.
After all of her experiences, Laurelin has some serious bitterness. Watching her process this is an important element in the book as she learns to trust again. Trying to determine who to trust is challenging. So many unexpected parts kept me guessing.
This book could be read as a stand-alone, but I am glad that I read the other book first. I couldn't put this book down. So glad that it was available on Kindle Unlimited.
February 29, 2024
couldn’t put it down
I loved every minute of this book! I adore an instant attraction and romance and Hood pulled it off flawlessly! The tension was perfect, faith elements strong and realistic, and action just right to keep me in the edge of my seat. I’m diving into the next Flynn brothers novel asap!
I loved every minute of this book! I adore an instant attraction and romance and Hood pulled it off flawlessly! The tension was perfect, faith elements strong and realistic, and action just right to keep me in the edge of my seat. I’m diving into the next Flynn brothers novel asap!
April 25, 2024
Awesome read. I am glad I ran onto this author. The first book was really good, but this second one was even better. Great plot, and more of the Flynn family. A lot of drama, suspense, and humor. And a few surprises. The author kept me guessing as to who the bad guys were, and I was wrong a couple of times.
Rian and Laurelin were great and likable characters, and I loved their story.
Rian and Laurelin were great and likable characters, and I loved their story.
January 13, 2025
Excellent book
What you'll find inside:
-Christian romantic suspense
-Stand alone story line
- Military man
- Widowed single mom
What I loved:
-Redemption and growth
- Family support
-“Naomi thought God had brought her back to her home empty. But what she didn’t realize was that she had left her home full of herself,
What you'll find inside:
-Christian romantic suspense
-Stand alone story line
- Military man
- Widowed single mom
What I loved:
-Redemption and growth
- Family support
-“Naomi thought God had brought her back to her home empty. But what she didn’t realize was that she had left her home full of herself,
December 22, 2023
This has been my favorite book to read this year. As soon as I read a preview I was hooked and couldn’t wait to read the remaining. I love Ri’s story I wish the book didn’t end I wanted to see more of their future!
August 12, 2024
3.5⭐️s. Good suspense and I liked the banter between Luarelin and Rian. I liked Laurelin’s character a lot with how bold and brazen she was. The romance between seemed to move oddly quickly, and some of the spiritual elements felt a little over the top at times - a little over-spiritualized maybe - but I liked the concepts and struggles both characters fought thru.
November 6, 2024
It's an easy, enjoyable read, there's depth to the characters' personalities, and it didn't feel like clichés, although since it's a series, the basic events were quite similar to the first part, so it wasn't that exciting and/or new
October 22, 2025
Excuse me while I hyperventilate at the utter FANTASTICNESS of this story. As someone who lives mighty close to the whereabouts of this book, it was so cool to see it come to life through Hannah’s eyes. Rian was perfect. Laurelin was a hoot. The plot was gold. Hannah crushes the game again.
October 1, 2024
I couldn’t read this book fast enough! Everything I love in one book! Highly recommend!
November 6, 2024
I love the Sons of Vigilance series! Hannah always integrates faith into the stories which is a great thing.
November 6, 2023
Wow...this book took me for a ride. The first chapter had my heart racing and I'll admit, I was freaking out just a bit wondering what the author had in store for the characters. There are so many twists throughout this book, but I absolutely loved Laurelin & Rian. They have amazing banter which had me laughing and helped give some light-hearted moments in a heavier, suspenseful book. The faith themes are woven in throughout and I loved how the author portrayed a Christian who had been through so much that they were struggling to even believe anymore. Their faith wasn't easy. They had to fight for it and I think that is so true to life.
These Flynn brothers are wonderful and I can't wait to read the next in the series!
*I received an ARC. All opinions are my own.
These Flynn brothers are wonderful and I can't wait to read the next in the series!
*I received an ARC. All opinions are my own.
February 13, 2025
This series is great. It has so much that I love: romance, suspense, strong families, danger and a little mystery, banter and character development. I’m enjoying it very much!
May 9, 2024
I'm loving the Flynn brothers and the entire family! SO happy to have found another great Christian suspense! :)
November 5, 2024
Amazing book
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews