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Lighthouse Cove #1

Lighthouse Promises (The Lighthouse Cove Series - Book 1

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Find your way back to love in Lighthouse Cove

When Addy Miles flees the chaos of New York City for the quiet shores of her childhood home in Lighthouse Cove, she hopes to heal her bruised heart. But her return is anything but peaceful.

The town’s beloved lighthouse, a beacon of her youth, faces demolition to make way for a luxury hotel—a plan spearheaded by the mayor, who once harbored a crush on her.

Determined to save the lighthouse, Addy rallies the "Alpha Girls," a group of childhood friends, to preserve the town's history.

As they launch a passionate community campaign, Addy finds an unexpected ally in Carter Hanes, a charming contractor whose presence in Lighthouse Cove stirs more than just civic duty. As they work together, sparks fly, revealing a chemistry that cannot be ignored.

Addy must navigate old flames, new romances, and the murky waters of small-town politics. In the process, she discovers that saving the lighthouse might also mean rekindling the light within herself.

Amidst community picnics, late-night dances under the stars, and the pull of the past, Addy and Carter find themselves drawn not just to the cause, but to each other.

Will the lighthouse—and an unexpected second chance at love—be the beacon Addy needs, or will the town's dark undercurrents pull her plans and her heart under?

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Published June 24, 2024

133 people are currently reading
25 people want to read

About the author

Kel Summers

43 books80 followers
Kel Summers writes clean women’s fiction romance books with a focus on later-in-life and second chance love. Her writing captures the essence of hope, self-discovery, and growth, resonating deeply with readers who appreciate stories of love and new beginnings.

Her personal journey, fueled by her own struggles and heart-breaking loss, led her to leave behind her life in Georgia and venture to the peaceful shores of the Florida Keys. It was there that she found solace, inspiration, and the courage to pursue her lifelong dream of becoming an author.

With her toes in the sand, a pen in her hand and her faithful and furry canine companion Ivy by her side, she creates tales of love, resilience, and the power of second chances. Through her books, Kel offers readers a chance to escape into beautiful and peaceful coastal settings, where her characters experience personal growth, rekindle lost passions and find love when they least expect it.

Kel Summers’ books resonate with readers seeking heartwarming stories that transport them to the beach, where love and new beginnings flourish. Her clean and uplifting romances capture the beauty of later-in-life love and the profound impact it can have on one’s life. With each new release, Kel continues to captivate readers and remind them that, no matter the challenges faced, there is always an opportunity for healing and a chance at finding true happiness.

Discover the healing power of second chances and the magic of love in Kel Summers’ later-in-life and second chance clean romances.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
Profile Image for Gwen Chester.
560 reviews8 followers
June 23, 2024
This is a beautiful story of how Addy Miles and Carter Hanes met and how fate played a hand in their lives and brought them together. Addy was married to Winston Miles a very successful New York lawyer. Then out of the blue they got a divorce because he wanted to marry his secretary Ashley and he was twice her age. He asked Addy to be out of the house where she had lived for over 20 years by the end of the month. From the divorce she got the family home where she had grown up and alimony all due to the prenup she had signed years ago.

So here she was only about a mile from her home in Lighthouse Cove, Connecticut sitting in the rented Black Porsche on the side of the road with a flat tire. She had no idea how to change it and her cell phone was dead. Now what did she do? After a while someone pulled their truck in behind her and ask could he help. Him being a stranger she told him no and he proceeded on his way. Not too long later a friend that she had gone to school with stopped and they called a wrecker driver to help. Now she was on her way again. Upon pulling into the drive, she saw that someone was already there. He introduced himself as Carter Hanes and he was the same guy that had stopped to help her. He had rented the house for the past 10 years and that is why he was here. She called her real estate agent and there had been a mix up, the receptionist had forgotten to tell her not to rent the property out this year. She would just have to pay him back and send him on his way. When she found out he had paid for the entire season she realized she did not have enough money to pay him back. They decided to live there in the same house until she could work something out.

Not too long after she arrived, she got wind that the town's beloved lighthouse is going to be demolished to make way for a luxury hotel. That is if the mayor gets his way. Determined to save the lighthouse, Addy calls on a group of childhood friends to preserve the town's history. The group is called the Alpha Girls, and we have to save this landmark. As they launch a passionate community campaign, Addy finds an unexpected ally in Carter. He is a contractor and very knowledgeable in helping them. As they grow closer working on the campaign sparks seem to fly and they grow closer. It is as if saving the lighthouse is rekindling her spirit as well.

What is going to happen? Will they save the lighthouse and all of the years of history? Will Carter and Addy get closer? Will anything become of the friendship? This great book holds all of the answers, check it out.

I am part of the ARC team for Kel Summers and will be glad to review this great book.
1,424 reviews12 followers
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July 15, 2024
When Addy Miles flees the chaos of New York City for the quiet shores of her childhood home in Lighthouse Cove, she hopes to heal her bruised heart. But her return is anything but peaceful.

The town’s beloved lighthouse, a beacon of her youth, faces demolition to make way for a luxury hotel—a plan spearheaded by the mayor, who once harbored a crush on her.

Determined to save the lighthouse, Addy rallies the "Alpha Girls," a group of childhood friends, to preserve the town's history.

As they launch a passionate community campaign, Addy finds an unexpected ally in Carter Hanes, a charming contractor whose presence in Lighthouse Cove stirs more than just civic duty. As they work together, sparks fly, revealing a chemistry that cannot be ignored.

This contemporary small town later-in life second chance romance that is clean and wholesome, sweet, a beach read, women's fiction romance, is page-turning with exceptional world-building that is magnificent sunrises and sunsets that are vibrantly painted across the sky, saving the lighthouse might rekindle the light within herself, suspense, mystery, action, adventure, love, new life, navigating old flames, new romances, murky waters of small-town politics, will the town's dark undercurrent pull her plans and her heart under? To find out, I recommend reading this book by an extraordinary author who knows how to captivate her readers' hearts and attention with lighthouse promises and a second chance women's fiction romance that is sure to transport readers into a heartfelt world that is romantic and unforgettable.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
346 reviews4 followers
June 24, 2024
Is a sweet second chance, small town romance.
Some of the lines I really like ----- Over the years that followed, Nathanial gave Isabelle many children, and their descendants are still part of the Lighthouse Cove community today. Their story of love, hope, and resilience is woven into the fabric of the town’s rich history. On beautiful, sunny days, it is said that you can hear the laughter of Nathanial and Isabelle in the breeze coming in off the ocean, a testament to their enduring love that lights up even the darkest of storms, guiding lost souls seeking their way back home. ----- - --But you won't know unless you try, right? The hardest tasks are often the most worthwhile." ----- "The planet of 'get your teenager out of the house in time for school.' It's a small planet with thousands of teenage girls, packed into one body, living in your house and constantly plotting to disrupt your life." ----- The lighthouse was more than just a building, it was a symbol of hope to these women who had lost so much. It was a testament to their shared past and their vision for the future of Lighthouse Cove. -----
I loved Addy and Carter's story. I can't wait to read her next book. I received a free ARC and this is honest opinion.
385 reviews4 followers
June 27, 2024
This book is an interesting contemporary romance that combines personal growth with community spirit.

The plot revolves around Addy Miles, a divorced socialite who returns to her quaint hometown of Lighthouse Cove.

Determined to rebuild her life, she spearheads a mission to save the town’s historic lighthouse.

The characters are well-developed and relatable.

The author’s style is vivid and immersive, particularly in her descriptions of the picturesque Lighthouse Cove and the majestic lighthouse.

However, the pacing in the middle sections can feel slow and some transitions between scenes could be smoother.

Overall, “Lighthouse Promises” is a heartfelt story of resilience and renewal. Readers who enjoy romance intertwined with personal and community redemption will find this book rewarding. Its rich character development and evocative setting make it a worthwhile read.
1,160 reviews26 followers
March 9, 2025
I want to say that I truly enjoyed this book and loved the characters. This is the story of Cristena and how she finally gets to say goodbye to her husband. During the covid pandemic, Cristena's husband died of a heart attack. Now four years later she is able have a celebration of life ceremony. But its ruined by the mayor filing an injunction of EPA violation. S the Reverand Oliver Fenwick offers his church for the dinner. Now the Alpha Girls are set to battle the mayor and this ploy to stop them saving the lighthouse. Cristena and Oliver seem to be growing closer til a rumor starts about his being fired from his last post. Can Cristena and the Alpha Girls come up with a solution to save the lighthouse? Will Cristena and Oliver find that their growing attraction continuing?
3,339 reviews17 followers
July 14, 2024
Lighthouse Promises, Book One, introduces the Lighthouse Cove Series characters, Addy and Carter, and her school friends including Brit, Dani, Eliza, and Christena who decide to commit to a community project of restoring the old lighthouse. Addy arrives from New York City following her recent divorce to stay in her deceased parents home, however, Carter, a single parent and carpenter, has a lease for the summer to stay in the house since there was an error at the rental agency, This well written book has amazing characters and a great plot which will continue in the next book of the series, Shadows of the Past.
1,160 reviews26 followers
March 10, 2025
I love this series each book is a complete story of one of the Alpha Girls with the backstory of saving the lighthouse. In this book, Dani is trying to come to grips with the end of her relationship with a doctor at the hospital she works at. She is also dealing with helping save the lighthouse. This brings her into contact with Tom, the environmental attorney helping them. Sparks seem to fly between them but each have a past that they have to deal with. Can Dani and Tom come together? Will the Mayor win in getting the lighthouse away from the Alpha Girls and build luxury apartments on the land?
945 reviews8 followers
July 9, 2024
New beginnings

A superb first book in a great new series! I love the determination of recently divorced Addy as she returns home and undertakes a huge lighthouse project with her school friends and the handsome contractor, Carter. Not an easy task when fighting against a project the current mayor wants to undertake. A touch of romance adds to this great story. I highly recommend this book and series.

I read this book as part of an advance reader team and am voluntarily reviewing the book.
Profile Image for Malgorzata.
362 reviews9 followers
June 27, 2024
I enjoy reading this book which is set in the small town Lighthouse Cove. Abby, one of the main characters, came back to the town after long time and found out that her house was rented even if it shouldn't be. Now she is forced to share her flat with a stranger, with a Carter. Abby and her friends had idea to save local lighthouse which might be destroyed. But would they be successful, fighting against mayor?
Book is short with quick pace, and authentic characters.
Profile Image for ABurch74.
416 reviews2 followers
June 20, 2024
This author has rapidly become one of my favorite authors. If you like sweet romance stories with slightly more mature characters, you will not be disappointed with books by this author. This was another promising beginning chapter in a new series. I look forward to the remaining steps of the journey.

I received an advanced copy. This review is my honest opinion and is left voluntarily.
982 reviews33 followers
June 23, 2024
Lighthouse Promises, the first book in the Lighthouse Cove series, is the perfect summer story. It’s got small town charm, a strong girlfriend support group, a sprinkling of romance, and a dash of intrigue. It’s the kind of book I can’t help but smile while I’m reading it. It’s sweet. It’s tender. It’s a welcome summer read.
Profile Image for Barbara .
5,644 reviews25 followers
June 25, 2024
This sweet beach romance book reminds me of a really good Hallmark movie. In fact, I hope that this upcoming series is a Hallmark movie someday how cool that would be. It's a fun and easy read with a great storyline and ending plus it was so enjoyable to read because it was interesting and kept my attention. Keep writing great books Kel. I am a new fan of yours.
Profile Image for Jacqueline Johnston Cotton.
2,083 reviews36 followers
July 14, 2024
A sweet and heartwarming story with wonderful characters. There is heart and head healing from a recent divorce and move, a "save the lighthouse" project and potential new romance brewing. This is the beginning of a great series. It's sure to keep my interest to the very end. The wait for the next book has already been too long. Happy reading!!!
Profile Image for Dianna Peck.
119 reviews3 followers
September 23, 2024
Awesome story

Well written story about life changes. Mid life changes can have awesome rewards and positive vibes. Learning to pick one's self up and move forward isn't always easy but can lead to positive outcomes. Highly recommend this book and author. Looking forward to reading each book in this series.
1,201 reviews
October 9, 2024
This is an entertaining, romantic, short story that is fun to read. The characters are well written, and the storyline is interesting as their romance progresses to a stronger bond. I enjoyed this book.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Monica Benbow.
56 reviews
June 30, 2024
Great fun book! Looking forward to the continuation of the series. Lots of characters to find stories for!
355 reviews8 followers
June 24, 2024
An excellent clean romance. Addy's husband of over 20 years divorces her for a much younger woman and due to a pre-nuptial agreement she is left with basically nothing except the house her parents left her in Lighthouse Cove. She leaves New York City for her old home and immediately gets involved with her old high-school friends in a project to save the old Lighthouse that faces demolition. This story is great with some twists and turns and of course some later-in-life second chance love with a HEA. This book hooked me from the beginning and I look forward to the next book in this series to see where it goes. I received this as an ARC and this is my own opinion. Thank you Kel Summers for this opportunity. I am thankful to be on your team.
1,424 reviews12 followers
August 19, 2024
When the future of Lighthouse Cove's beloved historical landmark hangs in the balance, a small town rallies against the forces of greed to preserve its heritage and secure its future. But when heartbreak and betrayal loom over their most passionate defenders, can they find the strength to fight not just for the land but for their own second chances?

This contemporary later in life small town, second chance women's fiction romance is page-turning with exceptional world-building that is magnificent with sunrises and sunsets vibrantly painted across the skies, and characters that are strong, independent, captivating, resilient, and realistic. Their journey is enthralling with heartache and happiness, as Dani Thompson, a dedicated counselor, has always called Lighthouse Cove home, this is where she helps those grappling with chronic illnesses find peace. A lucrative development proposal threatens to transform the tranquil community into a bustling tourist hotspot, Dani and the 'Alpha Girls'-a determined group of local women-must navigate the treacherous waters of a small-town politics to uphold the town's values and lifestyle.

Tom Green, an environmental lawyer with a knack for navigating legal storms and a hidden desire for Dani gets caught up in the crossfire. Discover the power fo the community, the pain of heartbreak, and the redemption found in fighting for what matters in this compelling tale of love and perseverance, drama, heartfelt emotions that will leave readers in need of Kleenex/Puffs to wipe the tears threatening to escape down their cheeks, action, adventure, and more. I recommend reading this book by an extraordinary author who knows how to captivate her readers' hearts and attention with heartache and happiness and a clean wholesome romance that is sure to transport readers into a world of love and second chance romance that is wild and unforgettable.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Gwen Chester.
560 reviews8 followers
August 9, 2024
In book 4 of the series and the final book we are still arguing over the lighthouse, but it is looking more promising that the Alpha Girls are going to win this one and get to restore the lighthouse so that this landmark and piece of history is there for many more years to come. The major is still not happy with the decision that the courts have come too. A lot more townspeople are fighting to keep the lighthouse now.

We also have a sweet little relationship in the making. Dani Thompson, a dedicated counselor at the hospital and she works with people who are fighting with chronic illnesses. It is her job to help them find peace. This has got to be a very hard but rewarding job. Dani and Tom Green have started seeing each other. Dani is still scared and not wanting to get hurt but she is learning to just enjoy the time they have together and not worry about what might not happen. Tom is an environmental lawyer that is help the Alpha Girls with the case. He has a knack for navigating legal storms and he has a little crush on Dani.

As we come to the end of another series of books we can wish Lighthouse Cove the best of luck. I have enjoyed meeting the Alpha Girls and my time spent in Lighthouse Cove. Now it is time to close up the beach house and return to the city. I am going to miss the beach, but I know Kel is our beach girl and she will find us another beach to visit and wrap us up in a whole new series.

I am part of the ARC team for Kel Summers and will be happy to leave my review.
1,424 reviews12 followers
August 15, 2024
In the quaint oceanside town of Lighthouse Cove, the past and future are about to collide.

Cristena Lane thought she had settled into a peaceful life after the death of her husband. As an active member of the local church and a leading figure in the community-driven effort to save the historic Lighthouse Cove lighthouse, she believed she had found her purpose. But when a government investigation threatens to unearth more than just environmental concerns, Cristena finds herself caught in a storm of controversy that could wash away everything she holds dear.

This contemporary clean & wholesome later-in-life, second chance small town romance that is women's fiction, best friend fiction, divorce fiction, with exceptional world-building with picturesque sunrises and sunsets that are vibrantly painted across the sky, and characters that are captivating and realistic. Their journey is enthralling as they they embark upon a future of forever with Reverend Oliver, the compassionate troubled pastor who is Cristena's source of personal turmoil and a pillar in her life, heartfelt emotions, drama, action, adventure, and more. I recommend reading this book by an extraordinary author who knows how to captivate her reader's hearts and attention with the future of forever and a small town second chance romance that is sure to transport readers into a world that is mysterious and unforgettable with the uncertainty of tomorrow.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Gwen Chester.
560 reviews8 followers
July 23, 2024
The Alpha Girls are still trying to keep the lighthouse. And the Mayor is still behind the problems with them releasing the ashes of Cristena's late husband at the lighthouse.

And we have another storm brewing. There is a rumor of Reverend Oliver Fenwick being let go from his previous church due to inappropriate behavior. What does that mean for the new friendship between Cristena and Oliver? She is on his side and believes that he did not do anything that would warrant him being fired. What did happen at Oliver's old job?

Cristena has feeling for the minister at times they have been more than just feelings of friendship. He has been a rock for her to lean on since the death of her husband. They have a friendship that could blossom into more, or could it?

Guess we will have to wait and see what this next book brings to find out everything. Will the minister and Cristena's friendship become something more? Will we get a new mayor soon? Will the Alpha Girls win their battle and save the lighthouse?

I am part of the ARC team for Kel Summers and will be glad to leave my review.
385 reviews4 followers
August 8, 2024
This short novel is a touching and engaging story that delves deep into themes of community, resilience, and personal growth.

The characters are well-developed, with Dani Thompson standing out as a relatable and inspiring protagonist.

Her strengthening relationship with Tom Green adds an interesting romantic subplot that complements the main storyline.

However, the novel occasionally suffers from pacing issues, for example, during detailed legal explanations, which slow the narrative.

There also occurred instances of info dumping and telling rather than showing.

Overall, “Heartache & Happiness” is a delightful read for those who enjoy romance intertwined with community-driven drama.

Fans of character-driven stories will appreciate the emotional depth and the uplifting message of fighting for what matters.

Recommended for readers seeking a heartwarming and inspirational tale.
355 reviews8 followers
July 15, 2024
The third book in this series continues the story of the Alpha Girls attempt to save the historic Rocky Shoals Lighthouse in their hometown of Lighthouse Cove. This story features Cristena, one of the five ladies involved in trying to preserve and renovate the lighthouse and Oliver Fenwick, pastor of a local church where Cristena is a congregant. And, of course, John Leonardo, the Mayor continues with his agenda. Like the previous two, this book has intrigue and suspense, but still no resolution to the lighthouse problem. I am looking forward to the next installment. I like that Kel does not make you wait too long before releasing the next one. I received this book as an ARC and this is my honest opinion. Thank you, Kel Summers for the opportunity to be on your team.
39 reviews
July 23, 2024
I loved the third book in the Lighthouse Cove series. This edition focuses on the struggles and triumphs of Christena, one of the Alpha Girls, endeavoring to save the local Lighthouse from demolition, and to save Lighthouse Cove from municipal corruption. Christena also deals with coming to terms with her deceased husband, and the new stirrings she feels for a local Pastor who supports the group’s efforts to save the Lighthouse. Kel Summers does a nice job of mixing a bit of suspense and mystery in between the lines of romance. Will Christena and her friends be successful in their efforts, and will she be able to form a platonic friendship with the Pastor? You’ll have to read and find out! You won’t regret it.💜🫶🏼
Profile Image for Beverly.
35 reviews1 follower
July 31, 2024
The Alpla girls are relentless on saving the lighthouse and that’s there ultimate goal but after spreading ashes and the constant conflict from the mayor the EPA gets involved…After losing her husband Randy Cristena leans on the support of pastor Oliver Fenwick but rumors about his leaving his current church arise and as sparks start igniting can Cristena and Oliver overcome the rumors and see if they can go from friendship to a possible relationship?This was such a good read hats off to the author well done 👍.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Malgorzata.
362 reviews9 followers
August 12, 2024
All Alpha girls actively participate in the fight to preserve the local lighthouse as a historical monument. This time attention is focused on Dani, and Tom, a lawyer working girl's case. After both of them started to meet more often, Dani thought there was something between them, but one event shadders her illusions. Was she imagining Tom's interest or was it sincere, and one event was only a misunderstanding?

I enjoyed reading this book, and watching how the story develops from the beginning. The plot is interesting and the characters are authentic and likable.
346 reviews4 followers
August 13, 2024
Is a sweet latter in life, small town romance with a HEA.
Some of the lines I really like ----- keep your head where your feet are because you never know what tomorrow will bring." -----"Does a leopard change his spots?" ----- Each positive change is a step towards better health," -----
What will the tide bring in for a woman who has always been the anchor for others? Who's the Mystery Woman? What's Andre up to? These and other questions will all be answered.
I loved Dani and Tom's story and I'm sure you will too. I can't wait to read her next book.
355 reviews8 followers
August 7, 2024
The 4th Lighthouse Cove book continues the story of the 5 friends trying to save the lighthouse in their little town from being torn down and replaced by luxury condos. The five ladies all very close and have different things going on in their lives that are addressed in the various stories. I look forward to the next segment. As usual, Kel Summers is an excellent author whose books always grab my attention. I received this as an ARC and this is my honest opinion. Thank you, Kel Summers.
Profile Image for Tami Willard.
2,219 reviews14 followers
February 3, 2025
Each book centers around a different couple, however there's a strong storyline that weaves throughout the series. Reading in order is highly recommended. She's been burned before. Falling for the lawyer could be dangerous for her heart. They are still fighting against the mayor over the lighthouse. What will the EPA investigator recommend? How does the townspeople react? Who will win in the end?.

I received a copy of this book from the author. Review voluntarily given.
Profile Image for Jacqueline Johnston Cotton.
2,083 reviews36 followers
August 8, 2024
A heartwarming story full of intrigue, romance, drama, mystery and suspense. I love the beautiful setting and small town charm. Saving the lighthouse is still a concern as is maybe being more than friends for Cristena and Reverand Oliver. The characters are realistic and the story flows so well. It's an easy read that will hold your interest to the end. I can't wait for more of this series.

I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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