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The Glory of Light

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He’s had everything handed to him. She built her life from nothing.

From growing up on the treacherous streets of New Orleans to being captured by terrorists in Syria, there’s not much Iris Sullivan hasn’t faced in her twenty-six years. When a mysterious operative asks for her help countering a growing threat on the home front, Iris heads to unfamiliar circles in the all-too-familiar city that shattered her carefree childhood and built her unconquerable spirit.

Barrett Jones was the life of the party until news of his twin brother’s death upended his picture-perfect life. Junior year at Tulane and an intriguing new classmate offer a distraction from his grief until Barrett discovers his own connection to the scandals and secrets surrounding Jonny’s death. Can he unravel the web of lies that destroyed his brother before it ensnares the woman he loves as well?

Will the darkness of the past destroy Iris and Barrett’s future, or will they breach their differences and fight together for the light of truth that can set them free?

322 pages, Paperback

Published October 25, 2024

6 people are currently reading
118 people want to read

About the author

Hannah Hood Lucero

10 books98 followers
HANNAH HOOD LUCERO is a wife, mom of three, Army veteran, and self-proclaimed word-slinger. While it is the brackish waters of the Mississippi Sound that flow through her veins, western North Carolina holds her heart. Her love for storytelling is the fruit of a lifetime of cultivation in the vibrant cultures of the Gulf Coast and the Blue Ridge Mountains. She currently resides in South Mississippi with her husband and three children on their ten-acre homestead. They have one dog, thirteen chickens, and at least fifty species of mosquitos, depending on the month of the year. When she isn’t in the garden, at the stove, or homeschooling, she can be found at her computer—just follow the sound of frenetic typing. Her motto is, “Draft, edit, read, repeat.”

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
Profile Image for JJ Samie Myles.
Author 7 books29 followers
August 7, 2024
WHOA!!! If only I could give this book more than 5 stars! Months after reading it, I still find myself thinking about it.

Let's start off with the characters. Iris is tough as nails yet beautifully vulnerable, and Barrett is his own kind of bold and has a heart of gold. Their different personalities and contrasting experiences (plus reversed age gap) make for the perfect dynamic. What a couple!

The plot mirrors what's happening in our real world, and has nail-biting twists and turns. You think you have it all figured out, but then realize you don't. At all!
The suspense/thrill is perfection, and the humor and banter made me laugh out loud. Thanks, Walters. Haha

What won't let me go, though, is the faith element. Truth is beautifully woven into the story and perfectly displays the glory of God's light and grace. Super thought-provoking and just wow!

The Glory of Light is hands down one of the best books I've ever read!!
1 review
November 11, 2024
I’m a huge book worm and I LOVE to read. I only read Christian fiction. Most of the new shows on amazon and Netflix are so full of trash and I’d much rather read a book anyway. I stumbled across Hannah Hood Lucero from some other Christian authors I follow on Instagram and I have loved all of her books. I got the privilege of being on her ARC team for her upcoming book, The Glory of Light and man was it good! This book was full of action, suspense, twists and turns, a swoon worthy romance story and all of the Christian values I’m all about. Iris is a tough as nails marine who becomes weak in all the right ways for Barrett. Since this book doesn’t release until November 10th that gives you some time to read her other books so you’re familiar with a surprise character that shows up in this book.
Profile Image for Sara Hickman.
395 reviews9 followers
January 16, 2026
“The darkness declares the glory of light.”

Another home run by Hannah Hood Lucero with The Glory of Light, a military romantic suspense. Set in New Orleans, devil dog Iris goes undercover to find out who is radicalizing Tulane University students. As a child from the foster care system and underground fighter, she has the advantage of connections to the less than savory players in New Orleans.

Barrett has been raised with a silver spoon, but his life is turned upside down when his twin brother Jonny is killed, resulting in unthinkable rumors.

Iris and Barrett are thrown together with a mutual acquaintance and being in the same Middle Eastern class. As they grow closer, they encounter danger at every turn and don’t know who to trust. Will the past and present converge to destroy their future?

One thing I’m loving about Lucero’s books is how her characters cross novels. Things make so much more sense the more books of hers that I read. The Avenger (our favorite Uncle Conor) even shows up in this novel 🥹

After you read The Glory of Light, you’ll want to read The Missionary and the Marine in Every Life Treasured (three novellas about the sanctity of life). You won’t regret it!
Profile Image for Carrie Cotten.
Author 9 books401 followers
November 10, 2024
This book! So good! Action, angst, faith, romance all perfectly blended into the most excellent un-put-downable package.

We would expect nothing less from Lucero, who has established herself as a master of modern military storytelling. They just keep getting better and better
Profile Image for Stefanie Ann.
82 reviews8 followers
December 29, 2024


Oh my goodness!!! What a ride. This is a must read for all. I love how relevant it is the what’s going on today in the world. Serious guys drop your books and pick this one up. It’s a rollercoaster of awesomeness!!!
Profile Image for Erica.
415 reviews16 followers
October 14, 2024
Let me start by saying I received an ARC of this book. This is a Christian Romantic Suspense book. The main characters are Barrett and Iris. Barrett is a college student while Iris is in the Marines. Iris takes on an undercover job as a student when see reconnects with her old foster brother and meets Barrett. This book had me go through all of the emotions. It was like I was on a rollercoaster. I didn’t know who the bad guys were and when I found out I was surprised. My heart broke for Barrett and Iris when I found out about his brother dying and how. The side characters were amazing. I love suspense in a book and this had the perfect amount of it and romance. This book reminds you that God is always with you. You may be in a dark place but He will guide you to the light if you let him. Nobody is too far gone to be saved. It may be hard to move on from the past and forgive but with God you can. I will be rereading this book.
Profile Image for Gretchen Garrison.
Author 3 books30 followers
July 6, 2024
"One day, I'm going to be just like you. As soon as I turn eighteen (or seventeen if my parents will sign for it), and I'm going to be an Army Ranger. I already memorized the Soldier's Creed. I can't wait to serve my country. As T.S. Eliot put it, "The darkness declares the glory of light." You are shining light into dark places. I will, too, I swear it on my life. Sincerely Jonny Jones, age fourteen. P.S. I'll be praying for you!"

While serving in the Marines overseas, Iris faces an incredibly difficult situation. She makes choices that she deeply regrets. But she did not feel like she has options. So when she is given an out, she decides to returns to the States to fight the terrorism battle in a different way.

Iris reconnects with many people from her past. Trying to figure out the truth is challenging. But when one of her choices hits close to home, she wonders if she can ever recover or find forgiveness. What battle is she fighting? Is winning even possible?

This book is unexpected in so many ways. Literally it took my breath away. I appreciated the originality and all of the unexpected elements. This is a military thriller with an added element of romance. Faith definitely plays an important role in the plot as well. The book is beautifully blended into such an enjoyable read.

I did read an early copy of this book. I definitely want to read and review it. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Victoria.
207 reviews4 followers
January 4, 2026
An engaging military romance that had some twists and turns along the way. I felt at times I wanted more depth to parts of the story or for the story to linger a bit longer so to really feel the emotional struggles of a character, but it was a fast-paced read so things naturally progressed quicker than I’m used to (so that’s not to knock the book just a personal preference). Either way, I was engaged from the very beginning and surprised along the way by how a few things turned out. What I loved the most was the overall theme of forgiveness (both giving and accepting) and shining the light of Jesus into this dark world. It was beautifully articulated. Overall good read!
Profile Image for Jennifer Hunt.
Author 11 books195 followers
November 2, 2024
Luceros most action-packed book to date, Glory of Light kept me turning pages and constantly surprised. From the realistic NOLA setting to the wounded-but-still-fighting main characters, this story packs a powerful punch!
Profile Image for funkelbunt.liest.
350 reviews5 followers
November 13, 2024
Glory of the Light is a book full of action and suspense that kept me on the edge of my seat.

Especially the flashbacks and how the different parts of the story came together was done extremely well. I felt the danger and even though I knew how some things would end I still was anxious to read on and sometimes hoping it might turn out differently because of all the heartache.

The Christian message of this book is strong and it shows beautifully that no one is too far gone for His love and forgiveness.

I especially loved the story about Barrett's brother, the one person connecting everything.

Even though she is my namesake it was a bit difficult for me to connect with Iris. She is a young woman plagued by guilt and doubts but in other situations almost over confident and someone who is maybe a bit too perfect..?
The romance part was honestly not my favorite aspect of the book, but the rest of the book more than made up for that.

The fast paced action scenes, the palpable suspense and the deep faith messages made this book a wonderful read where everything fitted perfectly together in the end and where the character’s journeys point to Jesus and His redeeming love.

* Thank you to the author for letting me read an advanced copy of this book. I leave this review voluntarily and the expressed opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Megan Short.
Author 15 books40 followers
December 16, 2024
If I could give this book more than five stars, I would. A friend recommended this book when I asked for a list of favourite romances of 2024. Wow! I had no idea it would become one of my top five as well. I loved everything about this story.

First, the detailed, realistic characterization. Every character is carefully drawn, with deep, realistic flaws and redeeming qualities. The characters themselves are likeable and the hero and heroine make a great couple. The back stories are carefully woven into the story, and set the scene for the major conflicts.

Next, the intricate plot. The plot threads together seamlessly, even though it is big—lots of subplots and threads to be woven into the story. All skillfully done. With incredibly well-researched war zone and civilian settings, I felt like I was in the story with the characters.

Then there's the message. This is a contemporary thriller, with all the complications of the Middle East, and a truly hopeful resolution. While the message is clearly siding on the Israel/American side of righteousness, this is done without apology, and with Christ’s love at the centre.

If you are looking for a clean, fast-paced military romantic suspense/thriller, look no further. You won’t be disappointed.
135 reviews4 followers
July 6, 2024
The Glory of Light is riveting fiction that reads like current events – possible, plausible and altogether believable. This is a fast paced, edge-of-your seat, action packed read by Lucero. This book reminds me of novels by William G. Boykin and Tom Morrisey.

Iris has fought all her life - from the streets of New Orleans as a kid, to Syria as a Marine, and back to the Tulane Campus as a student bent on shedding light on a current evil that is infiltrating the campus. With renewed faith, justice and right run in her veins.
Barrett Jones has led what most would call a charmed life. A rich kid. But not really. Things are not always the way they seem. Barrett’s life has recently imploded and returned him to a renewed faith in the God of his childhood.
Together can Iris and Barrett blend their diverse backgrounds into a solid team to bring the glory of light into a world full of darkness? Will it rip them apart or join them into a dynamic and strong force for Truth.
A novel full of faith and trust in the One True God through harrowing experiences that would melt those with less faith.
Profile Image for Karen.
59 reviews3 followers
August 22, 2025
First things first—make sure you read the forward at the beginning. It sounds like the beginning of the book, but it’s not. Then, read the author’s note at the end—what a cool tie-in like I’ve never read before.

This story was so intriguing! There’s a lot going on within the pages. Capture by terrorists, Marine camaraderie (I love reading books about the tight bonds between these soldiers), building tensions and cross purposes between the military, CIA, and FBI, mixed in with protests at universities and underground MMA fighting in the underbelly of New Orleans. This book will keep you on tenterhooks the whole way through. Who will you trust, and how far will you go to maintain freedom?

I loved the high tension and suspense. There was plenty of romance, and I liked that little reverse age gap between the 2 main characters. There was a good faith arc that helped keep everything in a higher perspective.

This story absolutely felt like it was pulled straight out of current events, which only adds to the strength of the narrative. There’s a lot of character growth as well. I’ll definitely be looking for more from this author.
Profile Image for Kim Griffin.
Author 7 books57 followers
November 10, 2024
The Glory of Light by Hannah Hood Lucero is Christian Romantic Military Suspense that had me on the edge of my seat from page one. Be warned, it is intense and features some violence, but the darkness makes the faith shine bright.

Most of the story is set in New Orleans, the perfect place to feature a battle between dark and light. Iris is in the military and asked to serve her country by returning to her hometown of NOLA—the place that hardened her as a child. While there she meets Barrett, a student at Tulane whose twin brother’s death changed the way he looked at life.

Meanwhile the past tangles with the present, foes masquerade as friends, and lies and truth are indiscernible. Danger lurks everywhere, leaving Iris and Barrett to make hard choices.

This book is filled with action, twists, turns, and romance, but it’s the faith message that rises above it all pointing to Jesus. This amazing story is worth your time!
Profile Image for Hannah.
51 reviews8 followers
November 24, 2024
Another Lucero book I couldn’t put down. Lots of twists and suspenseful moments in this one. Beautiful and relatable faith arcs. Loved the title quote tie in and the themes of light shining in darkness.

Since I know there are varying levels of preference with these things, I will say that this one had some more intense violence mentioned— nothing over the top graphic but detailed enough to see the true darkness and gravity of the situation. Also felt more romance focused in that it was less of a slow burn than some of her other books and had more page time devoted to their instant attraction and developing relationship. All “clean” and God-honoring in their relationship but just prevalent. Some readers will eat it up and some readers will prefer less romance talk, so just throwing that out there. 🙃
1,171 reviews6 followers
August 14, 2024
LOVED this book!! Iris meets Barrett when she's asked to work undercover at Tulane. Iris thinks she's met Barrett before, or seen him somewhere, but can't figure it out. As time goes on, and they spend more time together, Iris remembers more of what happened to her in Syria. When the puzzle pieces start fitting for both Iris and Barrett, will the pieces pull them together, or shove them apart? I love how Iris and Barrett both grow in their faith, and share their faith with others. Love how Iris also makes her connection with Silas again, and how things develop between her and Silas's adoptive parents.

I received a complimentary copy of this book, was not required to leave a review, and the opinion expressed is my own.
Profile Image for Mark.
2,505 reviews52 followers
November 11, 2024
This was an amazing read. I loved her Sons of Vigilance Series, but she may have topped those books with this one. Maybe. They were pretty awesome.

This was a book where you didn't know for sure who the good guys were and weren't. There were a few surprises along the way in that regard. Barrett and Iris were awesome main characters....very different, yet made for each other. It was kind of unusual for the female to be so much older than the guy - 6 years - but it worked.

And I so saw coming the tie between Barrett's twin brother and Iris, and what had happened.

And man what an exciting book. Terrorists, CIA agents, a lot of bad guys, and a lot of good guys. Besides Iris and Barrett, there was also Barrertt's best friend and Iris' foster brother Silas. He was one of many great characters in this book.

Iris was a different kind of female character. Fighter, marine...while Barrett was a rich kid in a fraternity...but a rich Christian kid in a fraternity.

It is refreshing when a Christian author doesn't shy away from Christian content, and this author does not.

Not an exaggeration to say this book was awesome. I totally enjoyed it.
Profile Image for Drew.
Author 24 books418 followers
December 21, 2025
Lucero has written one of the BEST books of our time. The Glory of Light will stick with me for years to come, and I know it’ll be one I read again and again. It’s not the banter, the romance, or the heart gripping moments that make this story amazing, though they certainly contribute. It’s the fact that Lucero uses this novel as a mirror to our society. She doesn’t hold back in a honest, analytical, and historical view of the reality of the Islamic religion and the implications of it in the world. She takes the readers to the deepest, darkest spiritual battles and then blasts them open with the Light of Jesus Christ. The Glory of Light is a must-read piece of literature of our time.
Profile Image for Laken.
47 reviews
December 3, 2024
This is my favorite Hannah Hood Lucero book yet!!! The faith arc in this novel is amazing. The romance is fantastic. And the twists and turns!!! And the topics discussed are vitally important for our time. The Glory of Light kept me awake until I forced myself to put the kindle down. As soon as I woke up, I reached for my Kindle again.

Do yourself a favor and read The Glory of Light. You won't regret it.
Profile Image for Jenni Moeller.
358 reviews
May 11, 2025
This was a little more detailed with violence than her previous novels, but I still thoroughly enjoyed the military suspense and of course, the romance :) I really hope Hannah Hood Lucero will write stories for the supporting characters in this novel!! Iris has a wonderful bunch of guys in her corner and I'd love to see them each have their own story :) OH!! And Conner Flynn! Thanks for that fun connection! :D
1 review
November 17, 2024
Another amazing book from Lucero that captures your attention from the first page. An amazing read from start to finish with all the twists and turns you would expect from a good book. I love that faith and Christian values dominate her books. This one is no different. It’s just the type of reading material needed to ignite the fire in a Christian’s heart.
126 reviews3 followers
September 11, 2025
Riveting!

Im a sucker for a military romance! This was my first Hannah Hood Lucero book and I am a new fan! This story was beautifully written and so captivating! I couldn’t put it down!! Loved the balance of suspense and romance. Now I’m off to find more of Hannah’s books to devour! Highly recommend
494 reviews1 follower
March 3, 2025
Don’t give very many 5 stars, but this one was so good. Great plot, lots of tension, interesting characters, and a strong Christian message. Ms. Lucero is a new author to me but I will definitely look for more of her writing.
Profile Image for Phyllis (Avid Reader).
193 reviews1 follower
December 27, 2025
Fast paced, lots of unexpected things happening, interesting characters . . . all great!

My hesitation in not giving this 5 stars was two things, both of which may just be a "me" thing. First, I felt there was a bit more physical interaction than I would have preferred. Nothing inappropriate, just a bit MUCH for my taste. Second, I thought . . . I have to be careful because I don't want to give a spoiler . . . a certain character was extremely quick to forgive someone else, which seemed a bit unrealistic to me. Of course I think forgiveness was appropriate - it just came too quickly in my opinion.

4.5 stars and I highly recommend it!
Profile Image for Latisha Sexton.
Author 11 books424 followers
November 12, 2024
The Glory of Light is a must-read political and military suspense that will keep you up late at night as you eagerly try to decipher what’s true and what’s a deception. The characters suck you in from the very beginning with their strength and vulnerabilities. Ms. Lucero has done her research to deliver high-stakes action, political intrigue, and a tender romance all while bringing to light deep faith lessons. I highly recommend this book to readers who enjoy action-packed military suspense.
Profile Image for Beth.
105 reviews8 followers
November 2, 2024
WOW!! This book is amazing Hannah has done it again.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews

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