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Lighthouse Lovers #3
To Be Loved
Two strangers, one summer house & a little bit of unexpected love.
Norah:
I really wish everyone would stop looking at me like my husband died. It’s been over a year and while it hurts, I’m happy to be getting back to myself. My job at the bookstore, my reading and my nights alone are what keep me going. When Alana asks if I mind her friend staying with me for the summer, of course I say yes. I mean this house is big enough to fit a library. I just don’t expect her to be the first person I’m attracted to since my husband.
Gemma:
When my college best friend asks me to be her maid of honor, I’m honored. She offers me a place to stay, as long as I don’t mind a roommate for the summer. She doesn’t mention how beautiful Norah is. What starts as awkward roommate interaction, soon begins to be the best part of my week. That is, until she tells me she’s carrying her dead husband’s baby.
I don’t know what to think, but I’m afraid I’m already falling in love with her.
To Be Loved is a small town, Femme/Femme, Roommates to lovers, Not Her baby, Forced Proximity, slow burn spicy romance. To Be Loved is book 3 in the Lighthouse Lovers series and can be read as a complete standalone.
Norah:
I really wish everyone would stop looking at me like my husband died. It’s been over a year and while it hurts, I’m happy to be getting back to myself. My job at the bookstore, my reading and my nights alone are what keep me going. When Alana asks if I mind her friend staying with me for the summer, of course I say yes. I mean this house is big enough to fit a library. I just don’t expect her to be the first person I’m attracted to since my husband.
Gemma:
When my college best friend asks me to be her maid of honor, I’m honored. She offers me a place to stay, as long as I don’t mind a roommate for the summer. She doesn’t mention how beautiful Norah is. What starts as awkward roommate interaction, soon begins to be the best part of my week. That is, until she tells me she’s carrying her dead husband’s baby.
I don’t know what to think, but I’m afraid I’m already falling in love with her.
To Be Loved is a small town, Femme/Femme, Roommates to lovers, Not Her baby, Forced Proximity, slow burn spicy romance. To Be Loved is book 3 in the Lighthouse Lovers series and can be read as a complete standalone.
202 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 24, 2024
20 people are currently reading
100 people want to read
About the author
Shannon O'Connor
64 books854 followersShannon O’Connor is a twenty something, bisexual, self published poet of several books and counting. O’Connor enjoys life’s simple pleasures: coffee, reading, traveling, and spending time with her new baby. O’Connor is continuously working on new poetry projects, book reviews, and more, while also diving into motherhood. She loves supporting local indie authors & shops as much as possible.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
November 12, 2024
Go back for a visit to the lovely town of Lovers. Book three tells the story of Norah and Gemma. It’s a toaster oven, single mom to be, small town romance. Trigger warning: this story contains grief over the loss of a spouse.
I received an advance copy from Booksirens for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Norah is one of Alana’s friends who are in town for her wedding. Norah is staying in one of the guesthouses on Alana’s family estate. She has lost her husband Finn and is grieving the life she should have been building with him. Before he died they were about to start IVF treatment, but due to Finn’s unexpected death the embryos went into the freezer. Now, almost two years later, Norah is ready make their wish come true even though Finn isn’t there to witness it anymore. When the date of the wedding is getting closer, Alana’s maid of honor Gemma needs a place to stay and becomes Norah’s roommate in the huge guesthouse. Gemma is a very unexpected presence in her life, one that becomes more important by the day.
Gemma is used to moving a lot. As a traveling nurse she hops from one temporary job to the next. This summer Gemma arrives in Lovers for her best friend’s wedding. She secures a job at the local hospital and the bride to be, Alana, puts her up in one of the major guest houses her family owns. Her temporary roommate Norah is great. In fact, the more time Gemma spends with her, the more Gemma starts to develop a huge crush on the beautiful redhead. It can’t go anywhere of course because Norah is straight and still grieving, right?
There are some problems with continuity in this story. That’s the reason I gave only three stars. For instance, the scenes with the baby and when Norah feels it in her belly. She feels it kick for the first time and then a few chapters later she says she hasn’t felt it yet. There is one instance where the POV changes in the middle of a paragraph. And another mistake is with the experience level of Norah in the bedroom. She seems to get a first taste twice. Things like that are distracting and take away from the enjoyment of the story. That being said, the story itself is pretty good!
Grief is always a heavy topic. Having a character dealing with the loss of a loved one takes a special kind of care. Norah’s grief is described with a lot of love and honesty. I loved her relationship with Finn’s parents and especially the way Gemma is so respectful about her feelings and her relationship with Finn.
Gemma is a big woman, she calls herself fat, but I always feel uncomfortable describing someone like that. What is incredible though is that, where in a lot of stories being overweight is an issue, Gemma is truly confident and happy in her own skin. To Norah Gemma is gorgeous and extremely sexy. It’s very nice reading about characters that aren’t skinny twigs with no physical ‘flaws’. It makes these women so much more real and likable.
Aside from the mistakes in this story (that really should have been noticed by an editor), I really like this series. All stories are relatively short, easy reads and entertaining. All three also have a pretty good spice level. To Be Loved might not be my favorite of the series, but it’s still a good way to spend a few hours. Can’t wait to see which character’s story we’ll get next!
I received an advance copy from Booksirens for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Norah is one of Alana’s friends who are in town for her wedding. Norah is staying in one of the guesthouses on Alana’s family estate. She has lost her husband Finn and is grieving the life she should have been building with him. Before he died they were about to start IVF treatment, but due to Finn’s unexpected death the embryos went into the freezer. Now, almost two years later, Norah is ready make their wish come true even though Finn isn’t there to witness it anymore. When the date of the wedding is getting closer, Alana’s maid of honor Gemma needs a place to stay and becomes Norah’s roommate in the huge guesthouse. Gemma is a very unexpected presence in her life, one that becomes more important by the day.
Gemma is used to moving a lot. As a traveling nurse she hops from one temporary job to the next. This summer Gemma arrives in Lovers for her best friend’s wedding. She secures a job at the local hospital and the bride to be, Alana, puts her up in one of the major guest houses her family owns. Her temporary roommate Norah is great. In fact, the more time Gemma spends with her, the more Gemma starts to develop a huge crush on the beautiful redhead. It can’t go anywhere of course because Norah is straight and still grieving, right?
There are some problems with continuity in this story. That’s the reason I gave only three stars. For instance, the scenes with the baby and when Norah feels it in her belly. She feels it kick for the first time and then a few chapters later she says she hasn’t felt it yet. There is one instance where the POV changes in the middle of a paragraph. And another mistake is with the experience level of Norah in the bedroom. She seems to get a first taste twice. Things like that are distracting and take away from the enjoyment of the story. That being said, the story itself is pretty good!
Grief is always a heavy topic. Having a character dealing with the loss of a loved one takes a special kind of care. Norah’s grief is described with a lot of love and honesty. I loved her relationship with Finn’s parents and especially the way Gemma is so respectful about her feelings and her relationship with Finn.
Gemma is a big woman, she calls herself fat, but I always feel uncomfortable describing someone like that. What is incredible though is that, where in a lot of stories being overweight is an issue, Gemma is truly confident and happy in her own skin. To Norah Gemma is gorgeous and extremely sexy. It’s very nice reading about characters that aren’t skinny twigs with no physical ‘flaws’. It makes these women so much more real and likable.
Aside from the mistakes in this story (that really should have been noticed by an editor), I really like this series. All stories are relatively short, easy reads and entertaining. All three also have a pretty good spice level. To Be Loved might not be my favorite of the series, but it’s still a good way to spend a few hours. Can’t wait to see which character’s story we’ll get next!
December 27, 2024
This is book three-of-five of the Lighthouse Lovers series and the most important thing I can say is read these books in order! It is a really clever approach to a big story, broken down into five interconnecting pieces. The downside is that I don’t think you can get full and proper enjoyment from these novels unless you have all of them to read, all together.
My Rating: "C+"
GoodReads: 3-stars
I liked this novel, and this series so far. This entry tackled some heavier and more serious topics and did so very well. The protagonists were cute together and I liked their overall dynamic. I have been waiting for these two since the first novel and am glad that we got to them! This novel/series isn’t my favorite thing I have read (you can tell by the rating) however at the same time I will 100% be reading the next two novels so that is certainly an endorsement there. These novels are entertaining, and I want to know what else happens next!
Highlights:
-The protagonists, particularly Gemma, were very supportive and sweet with each other. I liked their relationship, particularly the beginning stages. Reading buddies for the win!
-This novel handled a certain character’s sexuality and journey of self-discovery very well. It read as genuine, and it was written with sensitivity. I think this part of the novel was some great representation all-around.
-Plenty of good emotions here. Happy-to-sad, everything was represented, and this novel certainly wasn’t one-note.
-Great handling of grief and addressing the dynamic of moving on with new relationships in the wake of the death of a spouse. This entire topic was handled very well, and with a great amount of sensitivity. I hate it when “getting over them” is put forward as the correct and proper main goal.
Nitpicks:
-This novel is obviously part of a series (which I have read) but it doesn’t sufficiently stand on its own. Maybe this is just my opinion, but you should be able to read each novel in a series on their own without feeling too lost or confused. I found that this novel wouldn’t work without not only reading the prior two, but having them fresh in your mind (not just the general idea). There were a lot of references to scenes that didn’t take place in this novel that left me confused because I didn’t remember exactly what happened, and the timelines of each novel don’t align very easily either. For example, in one of the other ones there was the bachelorette party that seemed to pup up out of nowhere, and in this one they discussed planning it but we never got to see it (because we already did I guess?). It feels disjointed. Some characters also pop up from the other novels without being introduced in this one, once again leaving me confused as to who they are and how they fit into the story. I am loving the overall series but disliking the fragmented way that I am reading it. This would work better if it was a giant franken-novel, but I realize that isn’t practical.
-Piggybacking off the above point: I like how this is one big story broken down into five novels that are all interconnected, but something about the execution is hitting me the wrong way. I read these first three novels very close together, yet I am still having a lot of trouble keeping the timelines straight; who knows what, what has taken place at any given time from the other novels, etc. At times I was annoyed that characters didn’t know things which I have already seen them learn in the other novels. Each novel also seems to end at a somewhat random point. For this novel it didn’t seem to be a good ending point for the overall plot (because we are not at the end obviously) but also for this novels sub-plot (I assume we will see more of them in future novels). The author might as well have ended with “To Be Continued” because there wasn’t really an ending here.
-The writing just didn’t quite do it for me. I like the plot, and lots of scenes were delightful, but there was also a lot of telling-not-showing or very plain descriptions of characters going through the mundane motions of their days (that didn’t contribute to the story or do much else in my opinion).
Nitpicks (that didn’t affect my rating at all, especially as this is an ARC that is subject to change):
-Ok, so it might just be me, but I have never seen a spicy scene describe things as sounding like “stirring mac n cheese”. I have heard teenage boys say this, but never read it like this. Took me right out of that scene!
-Switched narrator POV halfway through the final chapter without warning. This was so jarring it was funny. I assume it will be fixed for the final novel.
-Various errors, like in one scene a physical book turns into a kindle in the next paragraph. Once again, I assume this will be fixed.
-I feel extra nitpicky here and depending on the next novels I might have to revise this, but that extra bonus scene that you only get by signing up for a newsletter was far to important to leave out of the main novel. The idea that someone with a physical copy wouldn’t get to see that epilogue is wild.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
My Rating: "C+"
GoodReads: 3-stars
I liked this novel, and this series so far. This entry tackled some heavier and more serious topics and did so very well. The protagonists were cute together and I liked their overall dynamic. I have been waiting for these two since the first novel and am glad that we got to them! This novel/series isn’t my favorite thing I have read (you can tell by the rating) however at the same time I will 100% be reading the next two novels so that is certainly an endorsement there. These novels are entertaining, and I want to know what else happens next!
Highlights:
-The protagonists, particularly Gemma, were very supportive and sweet with each other. I liked their relationship, particularly the beginning stages. Reading buddies for the win!
-This novel handled a certain character’s sexuality and journey of self-discovery very well. It read as genuine, and it was written with sensitivity. I think this part of the novel was some great representation all-around.
-Plenty of good emotions here. Happy-to-sad, everything was represented, and this novel certainly wasn’t one-note.
-Great handling of grief and addressing the dynamic of moving on with new relationships in the wake of the death of a spouse. This entire topic was handled very well, and with a great amount of sensitivity. I hate it when “getting over them” is put forward as the correct and proper main goal.
Nitpicks:
-This novel is obviously part of a series (which I have read) but it doesn’t sufficiently stand on its own. Maybe this is just my opinion, but you should be able to read each novel in a series on their own without feeling too lost or confused. I found that this novel wouldn’t work without not only reading the prior two, but having them fresh in your mind (not just the general idea). There were a lot of references to scenes that didn’t take place in this novel that left me confused because I didn’t remember exactly what happened, and the timelines of each novel don’t align very easily either. For example, in one of the other ones there was the bachelorette party that seemed to pup up out of nowhere, and in this one they discussed planning it but we never got to see it (because we already did I guess?). It feels disjointed. Some characters also pop up from the other novels without being introduced in this one, once again leaving me confused as to who they are and how they fit into the story. I am loving the overall series but disliking the fragmented way that I am reading it. This would work better if it was a giant franken-novel, but I realize that isn’t practical.
-Piggybacking off the above point: I like how this is one big story broken down into five novels that are all interconnected, but something about the execution is hitting me the wrong way. I read these first three novels very close together, yet I am still having a lot of trouble keeping the timelines straight; who knows what, what has taken place at any given time from the other novels, etc. At times I was annoyed that characters didn’t know things which I have already seen them learn in the other novels. Each novel also seems to end at a somewhat random point. For this novel it didn’t seem to be a good ending point for the overall plot (because we are not at the end obviously) but also for this novels sub-plot (I assume we will see more of them in future novels). The author might as well have ended with “To Be Continued” because there wasn’t really an ending here.
-The writing just didn’t quite do it for me. I like the plot, and lots of scenes were delightful, but there was also a lot of telling-not-showing or very plain descriptions of characters going through the mundane motions of their days (that didn’t contribute to the story or do much else in my opinion).
Nitpicks (that didn’t affect my rating at all, especially as this is an ARC that is subject to change):
-Ok, so it might just be me, but I have never seen a spicy scene describe things as sounding like “stirring mac n cheese”. I have heard teenage boys say this, but never read it like this. Took me right out of that scene!
-Switched narrator POV halfway through the final chapter without warning. This was so jarring it was funny. I assume it will be fixed for the final novel.
-Various errors, like in one scene a physical book turns into a kindle in the next paragraph. Once again, I assume this will be fixed.
-I feel extra nitpicky here and depending on the next novels I might have to revise this, but that extra bonus scene that you only get by signing up for a newsletter was far to important to leave out of the main novel. The idea that someone with a physical copy wouldn’t get to see that epilogue is wild.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 3, 2024
Norah and Gemma's story is delightful. I appreciate a well-executed 'toaster-oven' trope, and this one is executed exceptionally well. The plot is straightforward and easy to follow, and I found the character development to be engaging. The book, as a whole, is entertaining throughout.
I greatly enjoyed the character of Norah. I found her journey through pregnancy and the development of her feelings for Gemma to be particularly compelling.
I always appreciate when there is a plus-size female character in literature, and this particular book effectively portrays the beauty of being a plus-size woman. Gemma exudes confidence in her own skin, and rightfully so. Her character is chill and easygoing.
This book is quite enjoyable and I would highly recommend it.
By the way, do not forget to read the bonus scene as well. 👌
Star rating. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice rating. 🔥🔥🔥🔥
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
I greatly enjoyed the character of Norah. I found her journey through pregnancy and the development of her feelings for Gemma to be particularly compelling.
I always appreciate when there is a plus-size female character in literature, and this particular book effectively portrays the beauty of being a plus-size woman. Gemma exudes confidence in her own skin, and rightfully so. Her character is chill and easygoing.
This book is quite enjoyable and I would highly recommend it.
By the way, do not forget to read the bonus scene as well. 👌
Star rating. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice rating. 🔥🔥🔥🔥
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
March 31, 2025
To Be Loved is the third installment in the Lighthouse Lovers series.
Gemma moves to Lovers, Maine for the summer to fulfill maid of honor duties and help plan her friend’s wedding. Gemma moves into her friend’s vacation home where Norah, a beautiful redhead, resides. Norah lost her husband in an accident over a year ago. She’s grieving and trying to find her new normal as a widow. When Gemma moves in, things start looking up and she makes a friend. Norah had always believed herself to be straight until she developed a crush on Gemma. Little does she know that it’s not one-sided.
I loved that O’Connor successfully balanced love and grief. My heart broke for Norah, but I also loved how patient and supportive Gemma was with her. It was low angst, heartwarming, and there was definitely spice. It was a good read and I recommend it.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Gemma moves to Lovers, Maine for the summer to fulfill maid of honor duties and help plan her friend’s wedding. Gemma moves into her friend’s vacation home where Norah, a beautiful redhead, resides. Norah lost her husband in an accident over a year ago. She’s grieving and trying to find her new normal as a widow. When Gemma moves in, things start looking up and she makes a friend. Norah had always believed herself to be straight until she developed a crush on Gemma. Little does she know that it’s not one-sided.
I loved that O’Connor successfully balanced love and grief. My heart broke for Norah, but I also loved how patient and supportive Gemma was with her. It was low angst, heartwarming, and there was definitely spice. It was a good read and I recommend it.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 26, 2024
Another enchanting story to add to the big picture told in five books I believe. It’s a cool way to tell a story for sure! These are not standalone stories. Not really. By itself, I’d say this story was lacking in parts, consistency, continuity, maybe even in the development of their relationship (which is actually a slow burn?! lol) But truly, if you have been reading from the beginning, each story follows the same timeline and interconnects throughout. So those missing pieces aren’t really missing. We have been teased with them in each book so far. I’m loving it and can’t wait for the next one!!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 21, 2024
This was so sweet. I Have wanted to read about Norah and Gemmas story since the last instalment of the Lovers series. Shannon covers the topic of grief, moving on and Norah discovering her sexuality delicately. It was a joy to watch these two characters go from roommate's to more, the inclusion of mama perry was so heartwarming. Norah's pregnancy and her concerns led to an argument but Gemma did exactly what she said she would. I love the friendships in this series so much and cannot wait for the next book.
November 5, 2024
Out of the Series I feel like connected with Gemma and Norah the most. The growth in their relationship felt the most natural and I loved seeing them learn to navigate grieve and hope together. Definitely worth investing in reading about these two.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 22, 2024
To Be Loved by Shannon O'Connor is the 3rd book in her sapphic small-town romance series Lighthouse lovers all of which can be read as standalones.
To be Loved involves Gemma, a nurse who moves between hospitals and is working in the area so she can be a Maid of Honour at Alana’s wedding.
To this end Alana arranges for Gemma to stay with Nora, a widow who is getting over the death of her husband about a year ago.
In addition to this Nora has just found out she is pregnant from IVF which she paused when her husband became ill.
To Be Loved by Shannon O'Connor is a sweet, sentimental spicy romance that was a real delight to read.
Firstly we have Norah, a women who is still struggling to to get over the death of her husband, who she had been with since school,
Then we have Gemma, a nurse who is being asked by her mother when she is going to settle down, rather than move from hospital to hospital for work.
To be Loved is split is almost split into two, as once Gemma and Norah get together it does become a spicy romance..
The first half however is almost a slow burn romance, if a story of 193 pages with the couple together for about 50% of the time could be.
However the way that Shannon O’cooner deals with Norah who is coming to terms with being pregnant and discovering her sexuality. In addition to the way Gemma dealt with these two issues.
Seemed to be done with such sensitivity that made the whole novel feel more of a sweet/ spicy romance, rather than a spicy romance with an element of sweetness.
This was particularly emphasised in the way Norah and Gemma connected over reading, spending time together in one room reading and talking about books, which seemed natural rather than forced.
While To be loved can be read as a standalone, if you go on to read other books in the lighthouse series, as the books take place in the same time scale, there are minor spoilers from previous books.
However reading them in order the stories give you a little clue to future books.
All this is to say is I can highly recommend To Be Loved by Shannon O'Connor the 3rd book in the LightHouse series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
November 1, 2024
Spice Level: 2/5 somewhere between Open Door and Explicit Open Door
I received To Be Loved as an ARC from BookSirens and the Author Shannon O’Connor in return for my truthful review.
TW: Death, Pregnancy, Fertility Treatments
Norah is still getting over the death of her husband Finn when the whirlwind that is Gemma comes into her life. Gemma is a traveling nurse who comes into town because her (and Norah’s) friend is getting married. Norah and Gemma become roommates and get to know each other more because Gemma’s original living arrangements fell through. Norah and Finn had plans to have a baby and were working on fertility treatments before he passed away and Norah plans to continue with the in-vitro fertilization. Norah finds herself through her sexual awakening but is Gemma the one to stay and be a family?
This book was an okay read for me. It ended a little weird for me because, for me, this book was about life, there weren’t any tropes or suspense but the book was left on a cliffhanger. I also know I received an ARC so there will be some issues with spelling and things that are easy for me to overlook. This book tends to skip and have continuity issues. For instance, one of the epilogues was to be from the PoV of Gemma. However, not even halfway through the chapter, the PoV switched to Norah. It would be different if that happened throughout the book but each chapter was character related. There were some other glaring issues like that, that kind of took me out of the experience. If these things don’t bother you, by all means, pick it up. It is a sweet story with a little spice.
I received To Be Loved as an ARC from BookSirens and the Author Shannon O’Connor in return for my truthful review.
TW: Death, Pregnancy, Fertility Treatments
Norah is still getting over the death of her husband Finn when the whirlwind that is Gemma comes into her life. Gemma is a traveling nurse who comes into town because her (and Norah’s) friend is getting married. Norah and Gemma become roommates and get to know each other more because Gemma’s original living arrangements fell through. Norah and Finn had plans to have a baby and were working on fertility treatments before he passed away and Norah plans to continue with the in-vitro fertilization. Norah finds herself through her sexual awakening but is Gemma the one to stay and be a family?
This book was an okay read for me. It ended a little weird for me because, for me, this book was about life, there weren’t any tropes or suspense but the book was left on a cliffhanger. I also know I received an ARC so there will be some issues with spelling and things that are easy for me to overlook. This book tends to skip and have continuity issues. For instance, one of the epilogues was to be from the PoV of Gemma. However, not even halfway through the chapter, the PoV switched to Norah. It would be different if that happened throughout the book but each chapter was character related. There were some other glaring issues like that, that kind of took me out of the experience. If these things don’t bother you, by all means, pick it up. It is a sweet story with a little spice.
July 21, 2025
To Be Loved by Shannon O'Connor is the third installment in the Lighthouse Lovers series. The series is best read in its entirety and in order. The narratives are intertwined and include many recurring characters within the friend group, making it confusing, and spoiler-y to read otherwise.
I appreciate the gentle way grief is explored, and also the maturity of the main characters. They are supportive and kind and make a wonderful couple.
Norah works at a bookstore and is an avid reader. She is pregnant with her deceased husband's child. Gemma is a nurse and on temporary assignment at the hospital while in town for Alana's wedding. The two become roommates and experience an immediate attraction, despite Norah never having previously been attracted to women. They spend time reading together, which is a nice detail.
They are sweet together and the relationship is satisfying. Gemma is a proud plus-sized woman, and I appreciate the body positivity. There are lovely steamy scenes between the two.
While I enjoyed the story overall, the writing needs a bit of cleanup, and there is too much telling instead of showing.
I have found this entire series to be very entertaining, even if not especially memorable.
I recommend this book and series for quick, feel-good happily-ever-afters.
#bookstore #readingbuddies #nurse #plussizeMC #femme/femme #prenancy #pregnancysex #roommatestolovers #series #smalltown #Maine #coastaltown #foundfamily #supportivefamily #grief #epilogue #HEA
I received this free ARC from BookSirens. This is my honest opinion.
I appreciate the gentle way grief is explored, and also the maturity of the main characters. They are supportive and kind and make a wonderful couple.
Norah works at a bookstore and is an avid reader. She is pregnant with her deceased husband's child. Gemma is a nurse and on temporary assignment at the hospital while in town for Alana's wedding. The two become roommates and experience an immediate attraction, despite Norah never having previously been attracted to women. They spend time reading together, which is a nice detail.
They are sweet together and the relationship is satisfying. Gemma is a proud plus-sized woman, and I appreciate the body positivity. There are lovely steamy scenes between the two.
While I enjoyed the story overall, the writing needs a bit of cleanup, and there is too much telling instead of showing.
I have found this entire series to be very entertaining, even if not especially memorable.
I recommend this book and series for quick, feel-good happily-ever-afters.
#bookstore #readingbuddies #nurse #plussizeMC #femme/femme #prenancy #pregnancysex #roommatestolovers #series #smalltown #Maine #coastaltown #foundfamily #supportivefamily #grief #epilogue #HEA
I received this free ARC from BookSirens. This is my honest opinion.
October 31, 2024
Whenever Shannon releases a new book, it’s a cause for excitement, as she consistently brings her characters to life in such a vivid way. To Be Loved is no exception. From the very beginning, the chemistry between the characters is palpable. Shannon masterfully conveys that instant, intangible connection, and her skillful writing ensures the reader feels it right along with them.
Our main character, Norah, carries a profound backstory—she’s been through a lot before this story even begins. Shannon handles Norah’s history with sensitivity, honoring her experiences without allowing the plot to become solely about loss and moving forward. Instead, the story focuses on two people who share a powerful connection and the journey they embark on to explore where it might lead.
Adding to the depth of the narrative is Gemma, whose presence brings a sense of calm to Norah amidst her emotional struggles. Gemma truly lives up to her name, becoming Norah’s anchor in a storm of emotions, and their bond adds another layer of warmth to the story.
One of the joys of Shannon’s series is that they often feature characters previously mentioned in passing, allowing readers to delve into new perspectives while exploring a familiar world. Though I hadn’t read the other books in the series, I found To Be Loved fully enjoyable as a standalone story—a testament to Shannon’s talent for creating an immersive, self-contained narrative. Well done, Shannon!
Our main character, Norah, carries a profound backstory—she’s been through a lot before this story even begins. Shannon handles Norah’s history with sensitivity, honoring her experiences without allowing the plot to become solely about loss and moving forward. Instead, the story focuses on two people who share a powerful connection and the journey they embark on to explore where it might lead.
Adding to the depth of the narrative is Gemma, whose presence brings a sense of calm to Norah amidst her emotional struggles. Gemma truly lives up to her name, becoming Norah’s anchor in a storm of emotions, and their bond adds another layer of warmth to the story.
One of the joys of Shannon’s series is that they often feature characters previously mentioned in passing, allowing readers to delve into new perspectives while exploring a familiar world. Though I hadn’t read the other books in the series, I found To Be Loved fully enjoyable as a standalone story—a testament to Shannon’s talent for creating an immersive, self-contained narrative. Well done, Shannon!
March 30, 2025
First, I really appreciated the respect given to Norah and Finn's relationship. Finn isn't her ex husband, he is her husband who died. She still loves him with her whole heart. I always think romance books featuring a widow(er) need to show that respect and acknowledge that their love story ended because someone died, not because the love ended.
That is especially needed in this story because Norah is pregnant. They were in the process of IVF when Finn suddenly died. Even though he was gone, Norah decided to continue with the implantation a year after he died.
Second, this story is about finding love again. Norah has her pan-awakening when she meets Gemma. Norah had this amazing love at first sight moment with Finn, and she never really noticed if others were attractive. When she meets Gemma, she has a similar reaction. She never really considered anyone other than Finn attractive until Gemma.
Gemma moves to Lovers, Maine for the summer to be in her best friend's wedding. She is a traveling nurse, so she contracts with the local hospital. She moves in with Norah at her friend's family vacation home. Norah and Gemma bond over reading. They build a friendship that develops into love.
There are some editing pieces that stood out from time to time, like conversations that pretty much already happened or asking a question about something that was already discussed or happened when they both were there. But those weren't super glaring.
That is especially needed in this story because Norah is pregnant. They were in the process of IVF when Finn suddenly died. Even though he was gone, Norah decided to continue with the implantation a year after he died.
Second, this story is about finding love again. Norah has her pan-awakening when she meets Gemma. Norah had this amazing love at first sight moment with Finn, and she never really noticed if others were attractive. When she meets Gemma, she has a similar reaction. She never really considered anyone other than Finn attractive until Gemma.
Gemma moves to Lovers, Maine for the summer to be in her best friend's wedding. She is a traveling nurse, so she contracts with the local hospital. She moves in with Norah at her friend's family vacation home. Norah and Gemma bond over reading. They build a friendship that develops into love.
There are some editing pieces that stood out from time to time, like conversations that pretty much already happened or asking a question about something that was already discussed or happened when they both were there. But those weren't super glaring.
January 3, 2025
I am not even sure how to even start this review because it was just incredibly special in so many ways. Even though this book is only around 200 pages, it felt like the pacing was perfect and you still get amazing character development and a phenomenal story that has you smiling, laughing, crying and then sometimes needing to fan yourself off. The stories of Norah and her grief and start of a new journey in her life, and the addition of a Gemma into her life felt so natural and the way their friendship and relationship slowly progressed was nothing short of perfect. I loved the openness between them, the way they communicated, how raw their care and acceptance for each other was. I loved that they respected where each other was with both life and experience with sexuality etc, whilst also adding the difficulties of overcoming grief, bringing a new life into the world and navigating friendships and family. It was just captured so well. I can’t fault it. ALSO, the fact that they bonded over reading and those shared moments together every night. Oh melt my heart. I loved it from cover to cover and I just want more of them.
Things I loved:
Sapphic relationship (pansexual woman and lesbian woman)
Pansexual awakening!! (I don’t see this rep nearly enough!)
Plus size rep!
Forced Proximity
Love after death
Pregnancy done well
Things I loved:
Sapphic relationship (pansexual woman and lesbian woman)
Pansexual awakening!! (I don’t see this rep nearly enough!)
Plus size rep!
Forced Proximity
Love after death
Pregnancy done well
November 3, 2024
Okay, this is a cute quick read but… I can’t actually explain why it just missed the mark slightly for me. Which is entirely unhelpful and I’m sorry!
One quote I hated was:
‘My thumb stays on her clit, stroking small circles in her wetness. I could hear the sounds of the strap sliding in and out of her. It was like when you mixed fresh Mac n cheese in a pot. Wet and delicious.’ -I’m sorry but this gave me the ick so bad!!
I’m not sure if it’s just me and because I wasn’t in the mood for this genre when I got my arc?? It’s entirely possible!
I like the way Norahs bi awakening is discussed and the way she thinks through it all! And I really like Gemma’s character being curvy and a nurse, I think I would have just liked a bit more character development but that’s kinda hard with short stories!
And a little more into Finns accident ? It takes most of the book to find out it was a car accident that killed him, I also think it would have been good to see the scenes we’ve already seen in their own books from Norah and Gemma’s perspective? Like when she tells Ryleigh and Heather about her pregnancy!
So overall it was a decent read but could be improved…
*arc review*
One quote I hated was:
‘My thumb stays on her clit, stroking small circles in her wetness. I could hear the sounds of the strap sliding in and out of her. It was like when you mixed fresh Mac n cheese in a pot. Wet and delicious.’ -I’m sorry but this gave me the ick so bad!!
I’m not sure if it’s just me and because I wasn’t in the mood for this genre when I got my arc?? It’s entirely possible!
I like the way Norahs bi awakening is discussed and the way she thinks through it all! And I really like Gemma’s character being curvy and a nurse, I think I would have just liked a bit more character development but that’s kinda hard with short stories!
And a little more into Finns accident ? It takes most of the book to find out it was a car accident that killed him, I also think it would have been good to see the scenes we’ve already seen in their own books from Norah and Gemma’s perspective? Like when she tells Ryleigh and Heather about her pregnancy!
So overall it was a decent read but could be improved…
*arc review*
May 4, 2025
To Be Loved is the third book in the Lighthouse Lovers series, and a bit more serious than the others. Norah, widowed but (unbeknownst to almost anyone else) pregnant through IVF with her husband's baby, is rooming for the summer with Gemma, a traveling nurse and her best friend's college roommate. The two develop a friendship and very quickly start crushing on each other, but Norah is confused by her feelings and is still struggling with grief over the loss of her husband.
Both of the women are really lovely, and Gemma is so gentle with and understanding of Norah. If only we could all find someone like her. I did find this installment to be a bit more dependent on having read the previous books, and there were some grammatical errors that will hopefully be fixed, but overall I really enjoyed it.
I received a free ARC from BookSirens, but my review is unbiased and left voluntarily.
Both of the women are really lovely, and Gemma is so gentle with and understanding of Norah. If only we could all find someone like her. I did find this installment to be a bit more dependent on having read the previous books, and there were some grammatical errors that will hopefully be fixed, but overall I really enjoyed it.
I received a free ARC from BookSirens, but my review is unbiased and left voluntarily.
October 30, 2024
What an amazing story! Such a page turner! The question is, is there love after a loss? Wait til you find out. From the time Norah and Gemma meet til the end, their friendship just grows.
Gemma is in town for a friend’s wedding. She’s also got a job at the hospital for a few months. She’s staying with Norah who is living there and who is a friend also. Norah works at a bookstore. Their friendship takes off from there. They get along great. They both love to read, and most nights just hang out reading on their kindles. Norah is keeping something though from Gemma. When she tells her, how will she react? Will this put a stop to what could possibly be happening between them? Wait til you find out. After all, Norah has never been with a woman. The end is amazing and I can’t wait to find out what happens in the next book.
Gemma is in town for a friend’s wedding. She’s also got a job at the hospital for a few months. She’s staying with Norah who is living there and who is a friend also. Norah works at a bookstore. Their friendship takes off from there. They get along great. They both love to read, and most nights just hang out reading on their kindles. Norah is keeping something though from Gemma. When she tells her, how will she react? Will this put a stop to what could possibly be happening between them? Wait til you find out. After all, Norah has never been with a woman. The end is amazing and I can’t wait to find out what happens in the next book.
November 10, 2024
Awe that was sucha cute. I love the 3rd book in series where we get to find out about Noah, one of Alana’s bffs who lost her husband about a year ago & is having his baby through IVF. Than you have Gemma who is Alana’s bestie from uni who moved in with Noah at one of Alana’s beach house for the summer until Alana’s wedding.
They start of as room mates who have a lot in common due to reading & their connection just grows as their journey into a relationship happens.
I can’t wait to see how their HEA goes, but first Noah will finally tell her other friends about her & Gemma after Alana’s wedding.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
They start of as room mates who have a lot in common due to reading & their connection just grows as their journey into a relationship happens.
I can’t wait to see how their HEA goes, but first Noah will finally tell her other friends about her & Gemma after Alana’s wedding.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 18, 2024
What a great story by Shannon O'Connor. This is my first book by this author and I will definitely check out her other books. I was rooting for Norah and Gemma right from the start and their chemistry was immediate even though it was a slow burn. The story is heartfelt and the ability to overcome life's obstacles and be happy (HEA).
The end is amazing and I can’t wait to find out what happens in the next book. Fingers crossed
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The end is amazing and I can’t wait to find out what happens in the next book. Fingers crossed
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 22, 2025
"Exceptionally Well-Written"
"Powerful Message"
Norah has suffered great loss. Her soulmate love of her life has left this world leaving her completely devastated and empty. There is one more part of him left and she does what she can to become a mom. During her journey she meets the most unlikely compainon in Gemma. Could she truly ever be happy after the loss she has suffered. Wonderfully written romance!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
"A powerful exploration of Love & Loss!"
"Powerful Message"
Norah has suffered great loss. Her soulmate love of her life has left this world leaving her completely devastated and empty. There is one more part of him left and she does what she can to become a mom. During her journey she meets the most unlikely compainon in Gemma. Could she truly ever be happy after the loss she has suffered. Wonderfully written romance!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
"A powerful exploration of Love & Loss!"
November 6, 2024
Another great story by Shannon O’Connor. Norah and Gemma were wonderful characters and Norah’s past story is very telling of her character and the type of person she is. The friendship between the two is very real and also defines them in their relationship. All of Shannon’s books are very poignant especially when it comes to the character’s sexuality and this book certainly delved into some more serious moments. I loved it and am looking forward to reading more in this series.
December 1, 2024
This is the third book in the Lighthouse Lovers series and the one I have been waiting for, and Shannon did not disappoint. I really wanted to know Norah and Gemma’s story from the very first book. The love, patience, and support that Gemma shows Norah is so sweet and hot. We get the chance to visit with the other characters from the previous books, which I always enjoy. I received an advanced review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 16, 2025
The story was very cute and the angst gave it a real life vibe. I really enjoyed watching these two slowly fall in love while dealing with real world issues.
The only reason that I didn't give this a higher star review was that it seemed to be missing a chapter (at least the ARC version) and their were a few plot holes that made it hard to read the last few chapters.
Other than that, I loved it!
The only reason that I didn't give this a higher star review was that it seemed to be missing a chapter (at least the ARC version) and their were a few plot holes that made it hard to read the last few chapters.
Other than that, I loved it!
October 22, 2024
I enjoyed this book a lot. I found it interesting that Norah found love twice in her life. The way her interest in Gemma was depicted made perfect sense. I loved that Gemma was such a steady presence and really understood Norah and Norah's first love Finn. I feel that this group of friends are definitely people that I would love to hang out with. I am looking forward to more.
October 23, 2024
Another great read in this series.
I am waiting to see what happens next and what happens with the wedding and the rest of Norah's pregnancy. I would also like to know how everyone reacts to the secret relationship between Norah and Gemma. Loved the book and the progression of their growing feelings.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I am waiting to see what happens next and what happens with the wedding and the rest of Norah's pregnancy. I would also like to know how everyone reacts to the secret relationship between Norah and Gemma. Loved the book and the progression of their growing feelings.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 30, 2024
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. This book was so good. At first I was like friends to lovers, but it is so much more. I hope there will be a continuation because I just need to know what is in the future for Gemma and Norah. It is well worth the read.
December 20, 2024
Norah and Gemma become roommates. Norah works in the bookshop, and Gemma is a travel nurse. I found the story wonderful and loving as each woman got over their fears and lack of trust and begin a relationship. I recommend this book for all who like a wonderful spicy romance. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 26, 2024
Wow phenomenal I loved the storyline the main characters were exceptional with the in depth description of grief and how it effect her and the other woman was a complete angel with so many layers to them it's a beautiful love story definitely must read congratulations
October 26, 2024
This is a great story of how the human spirit will survive if you allow yourself to look for the best. Gemma and Norah have great chemistry and I loved how quick and easy the read is even woth the triggers mentioned for some readers.
January 14, 2025
This was a cute, feel-good romantic story that danced around some more difficult topics. I appreciated the dual narration and character development.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 20, 2025
Norah's Tale
Norah's situation was introduced in the earlier books of the series (especially book 2) however this is *her* story.
It has plenty of fun bits but is very moving indeed in places.
Very well written and an excellent book.
Norah's situation was introduced in the earlier books of the series (especially book 2) however this is *her* story.
It has plenty of fun bits but is very moving indeed in places.
Very well written and an excellent book.
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