The Beekeeper Next Door

by Danielle Thorne

Facing his fear

Could give him the family he’s always wanted.

Returning to his hometown to clean up his late parents’ home, professor Heath Underwood has no intention of making his stay permanent. Especially when he discovers his neighbor is a beekeeper. But avoiding widow Ali Harding proves difficult when her eight-year-old son bonds with him and his dog. As Heath spends more time with them, his fear of bees—and heartbreak—could stand in the way of his happily-ever-after…

Genres: Contemporary

272 pages, Mass Market Paperback

Published June 25, 2024

About the author

Danielle Thorne is a Publishers Weekly bestselling author of inspirational small town romance. She also writes historical romance and YA non-fiction. A graduate of BYU-Idaho and Ricks College, she has over twenty-five years of experience in her wordcraft. Danielle lives south of Atlanta, Georgia, with family, friends and felines. Find out more about her and her books at daniellethorne.com.

Reviews

[Sheila · Rating 3 out of 5]

Nice read.

[DevotedToHope · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you're seeking a heartwarming tale that combines the sweetness of honey and Christian faith, then The Beekeeper Next Door by Danielle Thorne should be on your reading list. Picture this: a college professor with a phobia of bees returning to his childhood home, only to find his new neighbor is a widow who spends her days tending to those very creatures. Oh, the divine sense of humor!

This novel beautifully stitches together themes of second chances, overcoming fears, and rediscovering faith. Thorne has woven a narrative that's as rich and textured as the golden honey flowing from Ali Harding's hives. Each page buzzes with the trials and triumphs of life, reminding us that even in the face of our greatest fears, God has a plan that’s sweeter than we could ever imagine.

Ali Harding, our resilient beekeeper, and her young son Charlie, embody the essence of perseverance and faith. As a single mom trying to make ends meet with her honey business, she exemplifies resilience and grace. Her realization that "God had come through. Again. She suddenly felt ashamed for doubting Him," is a strong reminder to trust God and His plan without hesitation, holding onto unshakeable, dependable faith. Her interactions with Heath are a dance of tentative trust and budding friendship, illustrating that sometimes the help we need is right next door, even if we’re too stubborn to see it.

Heath Underwood, on the other hand, brings a humorous twist to the tale. Imagine trying to fix up your late parents’ home while dodging bees left and right. It’s a recipe for some delightful misadventures! His interactions with Ali and Charlie slowly peel back the layers of his heart, revealing a man who, despite his fears, learns to embrace the unexpected turns life takes. One of the most poignant lessons comes when he realizes, "Just because you aren’t giving back full-time to everyone, everywhere, doesn’t make you any less worthy of help than someone who can. It’s okay to receive. You don’t always have to be the giver."

The book glimmers with moments of spiritual reflection and growth, underscored by a subtle yet powerful message of hope. Ali’s declaration, "All this time I thought my only purpose was to raise my son and survive, but I know God sent me here for more than that. Something better. He knew what I needed better than I did," captures the essence of faith in God’s plan—an ever-present thread throughout the story.

In the realm of character-driven plots, Thorne doesn’t just stop at the human protagonists. Trooper, Heath’s faithful dog, and Charlie form an adorable duo, adding layers of charm and levity. Their bond mirrors the healing process happening between Heath and Ali, reinforcing the idea that love and companionship often come from the most unexpected sources.

The Beekeeper Next Door is a delightful romp through a rural Georgian town, where beekeeping is a metaphor for the sweetness of life that can emerge from our fears and past hurts. So, whether you’re intrigued by the ins and outs of apiary life or you’re just in the mood for a story filled with faith, family, and a sweet romance, this book is a hive of inspiration waiting to be explored. And remember, even if the buzz of bees makes you nervous, trust in the journey God has laid out. It just might lead you to your own sweet, honey-filled happily-ever-after.

I received a digital copy of The Beekeeper Next Door from JustRead Publicity Tours LLC and the publisher. I am not required to write a positive review in any way or for any reason. My honest and unbiased opinions expressed in this book review are my own. My review focuses on the writing style, the pacing, and the story’s content, ensuring transparency and reliability.

[Karen Baney · Rating 5 out of 5]

Danielle Thorne weaves a beautiful, heartwarming story about conquering fears and giving love a second chance.

I get super excited about stories that are unique, sweet, romantic, and when I learn something. This novel has all of that plus a loveable little boy and a dog! Thank you, Danielle Thorne!

Ali is the beekeeper next door and her initial reaction to the new neighbor cutting down the wire fence between their properties could have destroyed a chance at friendship or more. Except, she strives to live out her faith and seeks peace with Heath.

Heath has returned home for the summer to fix up his late mother’s home that he inherited. Deathly afraid of bees (and for good cause), he struggles with his neighbor’s apiary so close to his family home.

I loved the way the author set up the tension over bees, while educating both Heath and the reader on the value, safety, and importance of bees. I find myself a little less scared of them than before. 😊

The romance develops slowly and remains clean and sweet throughout the novel. Fans of inspirational romance, Christian romance, and clean & wholesome romance will enjoy this book.

Romance: Passing mention of hand holding and attraction. Light kissing late in the book.
Faith: Both characters learn to rely on God. The spiritual arc for Heath is very relatable for those who have felt disappointed by life and pin it on God.

I received an advanced copy of this book courtesy of the publisher through Just Read Tours. All opinions are my own.

[Hallie (Hallie Reads)]

“facing his fears could give him the family he’s always wanted.”⁣
⁣
heath returns to town to clean out his childhood house. when he makes the mistake of removing the eyesore of a fence, he finds himself at odds with his beekeeping neighbor. to make matters worse, he’s terrified of bees, but ali can’t afford to give them up. ⁣
⁣
of course, as they continue to cross paths, they realize they may not have to be enemies (especially since her son bonded so quickly with his dog)—but neither heath nor ali is ready for romance…⁣
⁣
the beekeeper next door (danielle thorne + love inspired) is a sweet, sweet story (i mean, there’s plenty of honey, after all). it’s full of summer vibes and outdoorsy moments, and there is plenty of fun to be had within its pages. it’s not without its serious moments, though, as both heath and ali have past baggage to let go, and i enjoyed seeing their growth over the many obstacles.⁣
⁣
it’s a quick read, but will surely warm the hearts of interested contemporary-romance readers.⁣

(i received a complimentary copy from the publisher. i was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions i have expressed are my own.)⁣

[Brittany · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story really captured my attention and I had trouble setting the book down. I ended up reading it in one day!

I love that this is the first book in a new collection of stories set in Lagrasse, Georgia. I am excited to see what comes next for side characters from this book in future stories and that we will probably get to catch up with Heath, Ali, and Charlie in future books, as well.

Heath and Ali started out as almost enemies as they faced off against each other with a fence dispute and Heath’s learning that Ali was a beekeeper. Fortunately, these two were good communicators and were both genuinely nice and caring people who tried to work through things. They had some setbacks at times in the novel, though, when Heath allowed his fear of the bees to cause him to react badly or make statements tied to that fear without having all of the information.

Their friendship to more relationship was very sweet and it was fun to see these two have a chance at happiness together. Charlie and Heath built a good connection in the story, too. Heath was definitely a positive influence in Charlie’s life from the moment they met.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...

[Jennie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an enjoyable book about a woman who has a little boy, and her husband has died four years ago. She is now a beekeeper trying tomake ends meet. Money is tight and when the son of her deceased neighbor moves in and removes her fence separating their two properties she is furious. They bicker back-and-forth even though he falls in love with her and her little boy. It takes a while for everybody to figure out their feelings, but it is a happy ending.

[Holly Bleggi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thought this story was cute. I liked how Heath and Ali had a difficult time at first but as they learned to work together, they realized what a great team they make. I also loved how sweet Charlie was and that he was what helped to bring them together. I also liked seeing both Ali and Heath learn to deal with fears and traumas of the past in order to move forward and to have a happy life. I really enjoyed reading this story and seeing Heath and Ali’s romance develop. I also liked how sensitive the author was to the topic of losing loved ones and how she showed how important it is to remember them but not let the memory keep us from living.

I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors.  A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.

[Felicia Moore · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very good book!

[Heather Pickett · Rating 5 out of 5]

Author Danielle Thorne takes us on a hopeful journey to the little town of LaGrasse, Georgia. Widow Ali Harding and her young son have been there for a couple years now, but while Ali is quick to lend a hand to those in need, she won’t ask for help herself. This fledgling beekeeper believes her lot in life is to go it alone.
Heath Underwood moves back next door - temporarily - to his (inherited) childhood home. The divorced college professor needs to clean it out and fix it up. What else needs cleaning out and fixing up? Heath’s heart, which he’s ensured is closed. But like Jeremiah 29:11 says, “For I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord…”. Could the instant love between Ali’s son and Heath’s dog start a bridge of friendship between them…and maybe more? You’ll want to find out in The Beekeeper Next Door, plus it has my favorite, an epilogue!
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but my opinion is entirely my own.

[Michelle Fritz PA · Rating 4 out of 5]

Second chance romance plays out beautifully between these two wounded souls. Add in a precocious dog, a strong-willed child, small town charm, and watch the antics take place.

When a professor moves in who's deathly afraid of bees and discovers that his neighbor is a bee keeper, you just know that conflict is on the way.

In a back and forth pattern of remorseful longing and hesitation to begin again, this is clearly a family in the making. Neither main character wants help, but that's exactly what they need. Watching them choose joy and a new beginning is exactly what was promised.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and was under no obligation to post a review. The opinions expressed are my own.

[Marie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you in advance to the author, Danielle Thorne, for providing a complimentary review copy through JustRead Publicity Tours. A positive review was not required nor requested, and all words are my own.

I’ve actually read one book by the author, and have another on my TBR stack which is never-ending.

And, after reading a few lackluster books (one I’m still trying to draft a review for), it was refreshing to get back to books that I thoroughly enjoyed.

That said …

I absolutely love the Love Inspired line. It’s my second favorite behind the Love Inspired Suspense. Most of the books are pretty formulaic – the leads are troubled, they have certain things in their past, and they have to overcome some hurdles in order to be together.

But, despite that – each story is unique, as is the author who tells the stories. And, the characters are just as unique.

Thorne has an interesting story right off – a beekeeper. And, let’s be honest – some of us are afraid of bees. If anyone has seen the 1991 movie, My Girl, anything “bee” related can be traumatizing. I’ve only seen snippets of that movie, and what I’ve seen – it hits ya in the feels. So, it’s easy to sympathize – if not empathize – with Heath over his bee concern 🫣

Thorne introduces readers to:

🐝 Ali
👦🏻 Charlie
👨🏻‍🏫 Heath
🐕 Trooper
🛒 Tam

Most books have content or topics that might be triggering for some readers. This one includes a swarm of bees attacking Heath when he was younger, a wasp swarm attacking bee hives, and a motorcycle death (before the story). There is also a reference to Heath’s mother being a hoarder.

Thorne starts off the story with Ali hearing a barking dog, which belongs to her neighbor’s son. Turns out her neighbor had died and her son Heath is in charge of cleaning up the place. But, he’s tearing down the fence so his dog, Trooper, doesn’t get hurt. However, a new fence isn’t in his budget. It’s needed to protect crops and hives. Ali is hoping her bees can become a primary source of income for her and her son.

At the mention of “hives”, Heath grows uneasy (remember what I said about the movie). He remembers his own bad incident with bees. A fence won’t keep them on her side though. And, that adds to Heath’s woes.

Charlie not only likes Heath’s dog, Trooper, but he enjoys hanging out with the teacher. He also discovers a tire swing and a treehouse, which isn’t safe for several reasons.

Ali is desperate to erect a fence between the properties, especially after Trooper gets stung, which is not the only problem she’ll have with the dog. Setting boundaries between her and her neighbor is also difficult, especially as they’re seemingly drawn to each other. Even her cousin, “Tam” (short for Tamara) can see the attraction.

However, Heath has been stung before – in more than one way – and all Ali wants to do is be the best mother to her son, as well as make up for all the promises his father made before his untimely death.

Heath, learns in his cleaning, that it takes a village to clean up; Ali learns that lesson as well during a tragedy involving her bees. For her, LaGrasse has become a home; for Heath, it is beginning to feel like home.

The Beekeeper Next Door is a sweet and delightful faith over fear story. It is endearing and emotional.

I absolutely loved this little read except for a few tense moments. I was drawn right in and except for some “life stuff”, I couldn’t hardly put it down. It had great pacing – didn’t feel rushed or even slug along. The short chapters (for the line) were an added bonus. There wasn’t too much to dislike except my usual pet peeve of lack of communication between the two principles, as well as some “repetitiveness” about their issues. And, I had a feeling this was going to be my kind of book from the premise. I absolutely loved the reference to Piggly Wiggly. Some might remember the store from the 1989 movie Steel Magnolias. My mother said during the time she spent in Dallas, Texas (especially when I was born), she used to shop at one.

It was also a bit challenging because I felt for Heath and understood where he was coming from regarding the bees. He was only there temporarily (isn’t that always how it starts). Yet, Ali was there first – it was her second chance – and it was her income.

I definitely empathized with Heath when it came to cleaning out the house and his parents’ “collections”. Like his father, I also collected “trading cards” up until about 2018 – only they’re NASCAR cards. Some cards go back to 1988. I also collect other things – model cars, journals, and pens – just to name a few things of interest to me. And, it is interesting to think about where the collections will end up upon our passing, especially if we don’t have kids, or the kids aren’t as attached to the items as we are.

I’m also in the middle of decluttering, and having to make some decisions for my mom’s stuff (along with my own). While she is still living at home, there is some stuff she has that is no longer practical to keep. We’ve also been discussing the “future” which will eventually transition into a group home or some kind of nursing facility for her. That means she won’t be able to have all her “stuff” with her.

Speaking of kids, it was absolutely sweet how well Heath and Charlie got along however, it did cause some problems for Ali. Not only was Charlie seeming to mind Heath more, but Ali was concerned how Charlie was going to be once Heath went back home to Alabama. Thorne didn’t shy away from the realities of borrowing and credit, as well as other real-life issues.

There was a slight bit of confusion – for me – when Ali refers to taking out an unsecured loan for her business, however she then states she used her home as collateral (pg. 117). According to MyCreditUnion.gov, “unsecured loans do not use property as collateral” (https://mycreditunion.gov/life-events...). However, despite that hiccup – loans, secured or otherwise – are definitely stressful. It isn’t about being irresponsible, but life tends to happen. The reality is the same for most people – having to choose what expenses are more important and even prioritizing among them. It’s worse when it involves children. Their birthdays and holidays add additional stress, and many families don’t have a community to lean on or step up to help.

In the end, the cute friends – or rather neighbors – to more is certainly sweeter than honey, and pollinates the soul with love and good vibes. It is as endearing as it is emotional. It was also a great way to learn about the smallest little farmers and how much they contribute to the food chain.

This wasn’t the first book I’d read about bees, but it was one of the first where I learned how invasive and destructive wasps are to bee colonies.

Since this is distributed by the Christian line from Harlequin, there are going to be elements of the faith demonstrated. The themes in this book are mild, but the reader will not feel as though they’re being preached to.

This is the first book in a new series, so readers will get to revisit some of the characters and places again in LaGrasse, Georgia. Which I am eagerly awaiting.

Fans of the author and genre are sure to enjoy this read.

[Tammy Lunsford - Escape to Books By Tammy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Professor Heath Underwood is in town for one thing only and that is to clean up his parents' home so that he can rent it. He wants to clean up and get out town. All those good intentions come to a halt when he meets his next door neighbor, Ali Harding.

Ali Harding is a widow with a young son. She moved to LaGrasse, Georgia for a fresh start for her and her son. She is a beekeeper.

Heath and Ali's first meeting is filled with lots of emotions from both sides. Ali is protective of her property and what she is trying to build for her and her son. His fear of bees makes him more than a little snarky. Ali is puzzled by his reaction to her and her bees, and she is also angry that he has cut her fence to free his dog. Both Ali and Heath make assumptions about one another without having all of the facts.

Both Heath and Ali have built walls around themselves and their hearts that are miles high. You realize that it is a defense mechanism for both parties, but the boundaries they have put around themselves make the possibility of even just a friendship almost impossible.

These characters were multi-faceted. As I learned more about their stories, I understood some of their fears. Both Ali and Heath were stubborn about accepting help from others. I think they were both prideful for different reasons. Ali wants to make it on her own just to prove that she can. Heath was embarrassed by the state of his parents' home. He is a numbers guy and everything has its place. Structure and discipline are his best friends. He is appalled when he sees the inside of his parents' home.

Ali's young son, Charlie, and Heath's dog, Trooper, were like a soothing balm to these two main characters. Even though Charlie is very young, he was almost a mediator for these two just because of his innocent love of life. Trooper and Charlie brought a lot of joy to the story. Faith over fear plays a big role in this story, as well as putting aside fear to help those you care about. This story left a mark on my heart and a smile on my face.

Thank you JustRead Publicity Tours and the author for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Emma · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Beekeeper Next Door by Danielle Thorne
An Uplifting Inspirational Romance
Facing his fear
Could give him the family he’s always wanted.
Returning to his hometown to clean up his late parents’ home, professor Heath Underwood has no intention of making his stay permanent. Especially when he discovers his neighbor is a beekeeper. But avoiding widow Ali Harding proves difficult when her eight-year-old son bonds with him and his dog. As Heath spends more time with them, his fear of bees—and heartbreak—could stand in the way of his happily-ever-after…
this is professor Heath Underwood's story.
this Ali Harding's story
Ali Harding paid no mind to the barking dog in the distance when she walked out of the back door with a toolbox in one hand and a bottle of water in the other. The new beehives were still in their packages waiting to be assembled not far from the active colonies, and it was a warm, sunny day—the perfect time to work in west Georgia’s unpredictable spring weather. The dog woofed again, and Ali squinted toward the Underwood property. Instead of an excited fur ball, she saw a man with wire cutters bent over her droopy chain-link fence. Ali dropped her things to the ground and watched. Mrs. Underwood had passed away last year and didn’t have a dog.
“Hello?” She mustered a patient smile. “Um, hi. I’m Ali Harding, and this is my land.” The man brushed his chest with an old glove. “Heath Underwood. I guess I’m your neighbor.” “I didn’t know the property was sold.” Heath’s smile flinched. “It didn’t. My mother passed away six months ago, and I’m getting the place cleaned up.” “You must be Ms. Margo’s son,” said Ali as it came together.
I recommend this book.
The Beekeeper Next Door by Danielle Thorne is a 5 star book.
I am looking forward to reading more books by Danielle Thorne .
I received a complimentary copy of the book and was under no obligation to post a review. The opinions are my own.

[June Jacobs · Rating 5 out of 5]

This unique story is filled with realistic characters overcoming past fears and trauma, learning to forgive, and much more . . .

The author has done a wonderful job with her character and setting development in this inspirational romance story set in a rural town in west Georgia. She includes a lot of interesting information about the essentials of beekeeping which I appreciated because I like to learn something new in every book I read.

Ali Harding and her young son Charlie moved to their property from Columbus in an effort to build a life after the death of her husband and Charlie's father a few years earlier. She is trying to build up her apiary so she can sell the honey she harvests to make a living for her small family.

Ali's next door neighbor, Heath Underwood, is an Accounting professor at Auburn University in neighboring Alabama who has returned to his family farm after his mother's death. The Underwood property is in very bad condition, and Heath is juggling the repairs and clean-up while teaching online summer courses remotely.

Heath's dog, Trooper, is the star of the show in many of the scenes. The energetic, intuitive canine becomes young Charlie's constant companion which leads to a lot of interaction between the two adults—interaction that neither Ali nor Heath is comfortable with at the beginning of the story because of their past experiences in romance.

Through a series of mishaps and nerve-racking events, Ali and Heath are able to move forward from the negativity tying them to the past . . . Fans of this genre will enjoy observing the personal growth all three main characters experience in this tale. The book is completely clean in language and content.

I received a copy of this book from the author through JustRead Publicity Tours. All of my thoughts and opinions shared here are solely my own.

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[Christi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love a good, inspirational story and this novel is as sweet as the honey from Ali’s apiary.

I knew when I read the title that there would be bee talk, but I felt actual angst with this novel! Heath facing his fear of bees was nerve wracking for me, as I too have a few of bees (I’m actually allergic to wasps), so his fears being projected on the pages was triggering for me, and I couldn’t empathize more. In saying that, I learned a lot more in this novel about bees than I had previously known, and it’s made me wonder if I too should start trying to face more of my own fears.

The flow is nice and laid back and I was able to jump in and out of the book seamlessly. I felt like I truly knew the characters and felt all the feels right along with them.

All of the scenes with Heath and little Charlie are what really won my heart. There are simple gestures towards one another throughout the story that clearly show that these two share an undeniable bond. It never ceased to put a smile on my face and brightened my heart to see it.

*I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher through JustRead Tours. All views and opinions expressed are completely honest, and my own.

[Kendra Neal · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoy Christian Romance books and LOVE Inspired Brand is a WONDERFUL series of Books. I enjoy that they are short and easy reads. The Beekeeper Next Door by Danielle Thorne is the latest book that I have read.

I truly enjoyed this book from the very first page. Heath Underwood is back home for what he believes is only a short time. He wants to clean the house his parents lived in before their death to sell it and then return to his job as a University Professor. Ali Harding is a Widowed, Single Mom and a BeeKeeper who lives next door to Heath's parents house. Heath has a fear of bees and is a bit frustrated when he is getting swarms of bees in the yard. I really LOVE how Heath and Ali friendship grows when Ali introduces herself to Heath. Heath also grows attached to Ali's 8yr old son Charlie. I LOVE how the author also explains the art of BeeKeeping and Honey making throughout the book. The book is one about allowing God's plan rather then our plan, friendships, romance and trust and overcoming fears. I HIGHLY recommend this book for anyone who enjoys Christian Romance books! WONDERFUL BOOK!

[Summer · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked this couple together, I liked the way they interract. I appreciated that their neighborly feud had substance to it, there were legit grievances not just bickering for the sake of setting up a hate-to-love trope, and though they have heated disagreements, they’re mature enough and reasonable enough to acknowledge when they’ve handled something wrong and they try to make amends, try to compromise. Those scenes gave you the sense that this is the sort of couple who would have the tools to stand the test of time, which to be honest isn’t necessarily something I always buy into when I reach the end of a romance novel, especially lately.

The beekeeper in the title is what most drew me to this one and that turned out to be every bit as interesting as I’d hoped. I enjoyed learning about that line of work and the research was nicely woven in rather than ever feeling info-dumpy, and I thought this did an especially good job of showing the challenges financial and otherwise of launching a small agricultural business, that, and a child who isn’t always perfectly behaved gave this a nice touch of reality.

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Beekeeper Next Door by Danielle Thorne is a wonderful sweet novel of two people who have put up walls to keep people out just to discover together they can break those walls down. I loved reading about Ali and Heath's story along with Heath's instant connection with her 8 year old son Charlie. Beekeeping is so fascinating to me and I learned a few things about beekeeping that I didn't know. My hubby swears once he retires he wants to get some land and an apiary. Now, I just might agree with him. It's not as scary as I assumed. I also really loved the small town they lived in especially the bakery which sounds like they make the most delicious desserts EVER! It had a sweet epilogue which brought a few tears to my eyes. It was a sweet clean story and I'm really hoping we get more stories in this wonderful town with all the other characters. I was given a copy, but all opinions are my very own.

[Heather · Rating 4 out of 5]

Heath and Ali are such opposites in "The Beekeeper Next Door" by Danielle Thorne. Ali the beekeeper is a widow with a young son, struggling to get her small business to grow. Heath, a professor, just lost his mom and is cleaning up her house and property to rent and he is scared to death of bees. I liked how the author used various circumstances to bring these two together. There are great supporting characters and the son is just adorable!

The premise of a beekeeper selling her products in her cousin's small store and at a local farmers market make this one a great summer read! As with most Love Inspired books, this one is a quick sweet read and is everything you'd want in one of these books.

Thank you to Harlequin Books and Netgalley for the opportunity to review this ARC. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Karla Cook · Rating 4 out of 5]

As a beekeeper myself, I was interested in reading The Beekeeper Next Door by Danielle Thorne. The story is a perfect porch read for summer!

Single mom Ali keeps bees and raises a garden as a source of income for herself and her 8-year-old son. She has taken out a loan to try to get her business off the ground, so finances are tight. It doesn't help that new neighbor Heath comes along and takes down a fence that helps protect the hives from straying wildlife and dogs. His dog, to be specific. But Ali's son loves the dog and the dilapidated treehouse on Heath's property, which is more easily accessible now that the fence is down. Needless to say, conflicts ensue, and sparks fly. It was interesting to see them work out their differences by the end of the book.

Disclosure: I voluntarily received a complimentary copy from the author. All views expressed are my own.

[Vicky Sluiter · Rating 4 out of 5]

Author Danielle Thorne writes a heartwarming story of second chances and hope.

I enjoyed characters Ali and Heath. Both are dealing with hurts from the past and trying to move ahead into the future. On their own. But God brings together a beekeeper, a numbers guy who is scared of bees, and a little boy named Charlie who wants a dad and a dog. Specifically Trooper. Along with a repaired tree house.

Thorne’s story contained just the right amount of tension to keep me reading, with hope that something lasting can be built. While both main characters unhappily choose to go their own way. If you enjoy contemporary, faith filled fiction, then I recommend The Beekeeper Next Door.

I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.

[Lori R · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book made me want to live in Lagrasse, Georgia where the community bonds together to help each other.  I was fascinated learning about Ali Harding's bee hives and the products she made from honey.  I liked that she was given a surprise second chance when Heath arrived to clean out his parent's house next door.  It was fun to see how Ali's son bonded with Heath and his dog Trooper.  It was also amusing how Heath feared the bees.  I look forward to reading more sweet, inspiring books with wonderful characters living in Lagrasse.This is the first book I have read by this author and I look forward to reading more books!  I received an advance copy of this book and I willingly chose to write an honest review.

[Tara Robinson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this sweet, heartwarming story full of love, second chances, hope, faith, and family. Ms. Thorne grabbed my attention at the beginning of the story and kept me entertained till the end. I couldn't put it down. When Heath Underwood returns home to clean up his late parents home to rent out, he learns that his neighbor, Ali Harding is a beekeeper. Heath went through a past trauma in his life, that makes him skittish of bees. I loved the wonderful characters. Eight year old Charlie and K-9 Trooper are my favorites. A must read!! I was given a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.

[Amanda H · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a sweet, heartwarming story of a pair of neighbors who find love in the most unlikely of places. Ali and Heath get off to a rocky start when she is unaware of the place next door having been sold, and finds a strange man and a dog on her land. I can imagine being wary, if I were in her shoes! As Ali and her son get to know their new neighbor, they find out that things don't always go as you plan. I enjoyed the themes of second chances with this story! I also enjoyed the homestead feeling. I could relate to Heath and his dislike of being stung. The author worked that into the themes nicely.
I received this book from Just Read. This is my honest review.

[Elaine Applebury · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a sweet heartwarming story of second chances. This is the first of a new series located in Lagrasse, Georgia, and what a great start! Ms. Thorne has good characters and storyline. I’m looking forward to the next book!
Accounting professor Heath Underwood returns to his childhood home to clean out his deceased parents’ house. He has no intention of staying, especially when he discovers that his neighbor raises honey bees!
Ali Harding is a young widow with a 7 yr old son trying for a new start by raising bees and selling her honey products. When her son, Charlie, bonds with Heath and his rascally dog, Trooper, what can she do to protect Charlie’s heart?

[Jeanette Durkin · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a wonderful book from beginning to end! I find beekeeping very interesting and I love honey! The setting is very serene, and I find small town life idealyic!

The characters are relatable and easy to like! Ali is amazing! She's a single mother running her own small business. She's someone to admire! Heath is a hunk! I respect his fear of bees, and I liked that he tried hard to overcome that fear. Charlie is my favorite! Such a cute, precocious little boy!

The love story is sweet. I liked how Ali and Heath started out kind of rocky, and then their love grew slowly. The ending was perfect!

Danielle Thorne is a new author to me, but I'll definitely be reading more of her books!!

[Dann Hurlbert · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Beekeeper Next Door is a clean and apprehensive romance; it’s also a casual stroll through small town life, where two adults with grown-up issues, like balancing finances and following their hearts, are trying to start anew. The back cover synopsis is concise and enticing, pulling readers in beautifully: “Facing his fear…Could give him the family he’s always wanted.” Simultaneously, the cover image makes a beeline toward the story’s foregone conclusion. We do know it’ll be a happy ending; Danielle Thomas’ bio indicates she writes happily-ever-afters. She’s good at it.  She weaves in a handful of well-written insights or descriptions, too.  Here are a couple:

“She glanced down at a finger and twisted an invisible ring.  With a jolt, Heath suspected she was widowed.”

“. . . [He] grabbed a trash bag to start on the coat closet.  When he opened it, a musty cloud of memories disguised as cedar and dust made his nose itch.”

If you enjoy the emotion of relationships intertwined with haunting memories and have a tendency to second-and-third-guess your own romantic instincts, this will be right up your alley. The Beekeeper Next Door is a sweet and comfortable read for those with an aversion to being stung by shocking surprises or terrifying twists.

[Jacqueline Johnston Cotton · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love second chance romances and stories that inspire and move you forward. This book was so enjoyable, fun and inspirational. The strong characters were realistic and heartwarming. Ali and Heath were each so guarded and from past loss and hurt neither was willing to risk their heart. There were conflicts but also a lot of humor and love always wins. A well written, charming and easy to read storyline that tugs at the heartstrings. Everyone will enjoy this uplifting romantic story.

[Lisa H · Rating 4 out of 5]

The thing you fear most...

The universe has an ironic sense of humor. Heath has an unhealthy (but reasonable) fear of bees.
Ironically, his neighbor, single mother, Ali is a beekeeper. That's cool, we need more beekeepers in this fragile world. His dog and her son bond, and while there is little to no romance in this book, as it stays squeaky clean.

[Erralee Hendrian · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ali and Heath both want to be independent and don't want to accept help which is totally relatable; it can be hard to accept help. The characters became better people as the story goes which is something I like to see in a story as well. The bee facts are interesting and it is neat to get a glimpse into a beekeeper's life. I really enjoyed reading this story.