The Lantern

by Louis Ethan

Jack thought that starting university would be just what he needed to escape the demons of his past. It was his new chance at life after moving back into his childhood home, but life doesn’t always go according to plan. When Jack tries to overcome the damage left in his ex’s wake, his first day at university couldn’t go any worse.

With a major project looming, struggling with Kyle, his project partner, who he can hardly hear and the mystery man of his dreams to find, Jack’s starting to think University wasn’t the right option after all.

With spicy scenarios, miscommunication and a whole lot of partying, will Jack make it to his second year unscathed or will his heart yet again be torn in two?

202 pages, Paperback

Published July 7, 2025

Reviews

[C.M. Daniels · Rating 5 out of 5]

What struck me most about 'The Lantern' was how authentic it came across. The characters behaved and spoke realistically and felt like people I might bump into on Canal Street on a Friday night. The two main side characters had their own lives and motivation and didn't simply serve the purpose of cheerleading the main characters or furthering the plot. Similarly, the narrative and relationships didn't necessarily follow the usual path of a romance novel, but instead took a more meandering and genuine-feeling route to the HEA.

This is Louis Ethan's first novel, and his humour and wit shines through the internal monologue of the flawed but ultimately kind and honest main character, Jack. Ethan deals sensitively with the topic of mental illness and presents it in a sympathetic light, without appearing at all preachy.

'The Lantern' has that urban, gritty-but-fun feeling that's almost reminiscent of a Russell T Davies drama or a particularly good Hollyoaks Late special (do they still make those? I'm showing my age I think). The credibility comes - in my opinion - from the author and his own lived experience as a gay man. And it is this that makes it stand out from typical MM romance.

I am very much looking forward to the next novel - which I believe will feature Ben's story; not least to see if I correctly guessed the identity of his paramour!

[Shauna Adams · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a spicy enemies-to-lovers, mm university romance, twists, suspense and even contains a scorching tryst in a dark room🌶

Miscommunication leads to misunderstanding and that's how strangers become enemies-at least that's how Jack and Kyle started.

I loved the tension and suspense throughout this story. It was at times heartbreaking, but then it puts you right back together.

The friendship between Jack and Ben was so adorable-One of those ride or die relationships. I can't wait for Ben's story 😍

[J D W · Rating 4 out of 5]

"The Lantern" is a fun and spicy new m/m romp from U.K. author Louis Ethan.

Though there were times when I didn't understand some of the protagonist Jack's decisions or actions (he has BPD), I was still able to follow along and root for him and his academic goals.

Along the way, Jack has some steamy encounters and crushes he can't deny (even if he tries). The main cast includes Jack's best mate, Ben, and Jack's loving, supportive mum. (I wish I had a best mate like Benny!)

I look forward to reading Jack and Ben's further adventures and other literary works by Mr. Ethan.

[Matt O'Reilly · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Lantern by Louis Ethan is a thrilling ride from start to finish! Packed full of suspense and just the right amount of spice, it hooks you early and keeps you turning pages late into the night. The story is rich, spicy, and full of unexpected twists that had me guessing until the very end. If you want a book where you love and hate some of the characters, this is the book for you. I kind of wish my own university experience were a little like this. Highly recommended!

[Madalyn George · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book kept me guessing while painting a warm world of family, friends and college life.

Conflicts of class, lots of miscommunication and a little bit of masquerading are framed by a sensitive presentation of mental illness.

I'm looking forward to finding out what Ben was up to while his best friend was finding his HEA.

[Mia Sanchez · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kyle is so freaking cute!!!! And sexy 👀

Jack and Kyle had amazing chemistry!! The spice was *chef's kiss*.

It was a quiet yet interesting read. I can't wait to read Ben's story though. He stole my heart 🫶

[Ashish Rastogi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Angsty and Hot.
An MC with mental health issues and a lot of baggage. Someone you would love to hate. The side characters are delightful. High on the spice index.