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Firefly Summer #2
The Lake House
Not yet published
Expected 26 May 26Second chances, surprising revelations, and sweet, unexpected love go hand-in-hand in the tiny lakeside town at the heart of this charming series from New York Times bestselling author Lori Foster.
When Pixie Nolan first came to Bramble, Kentucky, the abandoned and desperate young single mother found hope, healing, and a fresh start. With the loving support of her best friends—Marlow Heddings and her handsome Marine husband, Cort—Pixie is now happily raising her toddler son in a cozy cottage, managing Marlow’s thriving boutique, and designing firefly logo t-shirts that are selling like hotcakes. The past is behind her, and life is good.
She never expected to make an electrifying connection with a summer renter, a retired Navy SEAL with his own complicated past . . .
A rugged warrior with scars both seen and unseen, Brogan Rafferty arrives with an adorable baby girl in tow and settles into the lake house next door. And while he’s a stunning addition to the gorgeous scenery, it’s his caring devotion that captures Pixie’s heart—the way he gently snuggles away the precious infant’s cries, or swoops Pixie’s delighted little boy high in the air with his tattooed, muscular arms.
But it’s no coincidence that Brogan has found Pixie, and his startling revelations make it clear she’s the key to healing old regrets and building new dreams. And when a hostile stranger turns up with shocking accusations against Bramble’s new hometown hero, Pixie must put her own fears and heartbreak away for good—and learn what it truly means to trust.
When Pixie Nolan first came to Bramble, Kentucky, the abandoned and desperate young single mother found hope, healing, and a fresh start. With the loving support of her best friends—Marlow Heddings and her handsome Marine husband, Cort—Pixie is now happily raising her toddler son in a cozy cottage, managing Marlow’s thriving boutique, and designing firefly logo t-shirts that are selling like hotcakes. The past is behind her, and life is good.
She never expected to make an electrifying connection with a summer renter, a retired Navy SEAL with his own complicated past . . .
A rugged warrior with scars both seen and unseen, Brogan Rafferty arrives with an adorable baby girl in tow and settles into the lake house next door. And while he’s a stunning addition to the gorgeous scenery, it’s his caring devotion that captures Pixie’s heart—the way he gently snuggles away the precious infant’s cries, or swoops Pixie’s delighted little boy high in the air with his tattooed, muscular arms.
But it’s no coincidence that Brogan has found Pixie, and his startling revelations make it clear she’s the key to healing old regrets and building new dreams. And when a hostile stranger turns up with shocking accusations against Bramble’s new hometown hero, Pixie must put her own fears and heartbreak away for good—and learn what it truly means to trust.
400 pages, Paperback
Expected publication May 26, 2026
7 people are currently reading
290 people want to read
About the author
Lori Foster
424 books11.7k followersSince first publishing in January 1996, Lori Foster has become a USA Today, Publisher’s Weekly and New York Times bestselling author. Lori has published through a variety of houses, including Kensington, St. Martin’s, Harlequin, Silhouette, Samhain, and Berkley/Jove. She is currently published with HQN.
Lori hosts a very special annual “Reader & Author” event in West Chester, Ohio. Proceeds from the event have benefited many worthy causes, including the Hamilton County YWCA Battered Women’s Shelter, the Animal Adoption Foundation, The Conductive Learning Center for children with spina bifida and cerebral palsy, and The One Way Farm, Children’s Home.
Each year Lori donates all proceeds from one book to charity. You can see the benefit romance books here: http://lorifoster.com/benefit-books/
Career Highlights
•In 2001, Lori received the prestigious Romantic Times “Career Achievement Award” for Series Romantic Fantasy.
•In 2002, Lori’s book Too Much Temptation was the top-selling romance title for Amazon books.
•In 2003, Say No To Joe was the second “Bestselling Original Contemporary” romance title for Waldenbooks.
•In 2004, Lori Foster was a clue in the New York Times crossword puzzle.
•In 2004, The Secret Life of Bryan was the “Bestselling Original Contemporary” romance title for the BGI group.
•In 2005, Lori received the prestigious Romantic Times “Career Achievement Award” for Contemporary Romance.
•In 2006, Jude’s Law was the “Bestselling Romantic Comedy” romance title for the BGI group.
•In 2007, Lori launched a new “urban fantasy” series under the name L.L. Foster. See more on her “dark side” at www.llfoster.com.
•In 2007, Causing Havoc was among Amazon’s Top Ten Editor’s picks in Romance.
•In 2008, Hard to Handle made #2 on The New York Times.
•In 2009, Servant: The Acceptance was Amazon’s #1 Editors’ Pick in Romance.
•In 2010, Lori was a clue in the USA Today Quick Cross puzzle.
Lori hosts a very special annual “Reader & Author” event in West Chester, Ohio. Proceeds from the event have benefited many worthy causes, including the Hamilton County YWCA Battered Women’s Shelter, the Animal Adoption Foundation, The Conductive Learning Center for children with spina bifida and cerebral palsy, and The One Way Farm, Children’s Home.
Each year Lori donates all proceeds from one book to charity. You can see the benefit romance books here: http://lorifoster.com/benefit-books/
Career Highlights
•In 2001, Lori received the prestigious Romantic Times “Career Achievement Award” for Series Romantic Fantasy.
•In 2002, Lori’s book Too Much Temptation was the top-selling romance title for Amazon books.
•In 2003, Say No To Joe was the second “Bestselling Original Contemporary” romance title for Waldenbooks.
•In 2004, Lori Foster was a clue in the New York Times crossword puzzle.
•In 2004, The Secret Life of Bryan was the “Bestselling Original Contemporary” romance title for the BGI group.
•In 2005, Lori received the prestigious Romantic Times “Career Achievement Award” for Contemporary Romance.
•In 2006, Jude’s Law was the “Bestselling Romantic Comedy” romance title for the BGI group.
•In 2007, Lori launched a new “urban fantasy” series under the name L.L. Foster. See more on her “dark side” at www.llfoster.com.
•In 2007, Causing Havoc was among Amazon’s Top Ten Editor’s picks in Romance.
•In 2008, Hard to Handle made #2 on The New York Times.
•In 2009, Servant: The Acceptance was Amazon’s #1 Editors’ Pick in Romance.
•In 2010, Lori was a clue in the USA Today Quick Cross puzzle.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews
January 17, 2026
Foster delivers a quietly addictive read, blending emotional depth, romantic tension, and a strong sense of place into a story that’s both comforting and compelling.
The atmosphere is immersive from the start: serene on the surface, yet charged with unspoken history and longing underneath.
Foster’s characters feel authentic and layered, their connections unfolding with a natural ease that makes every interaction matter.
The pacing is smooth and confident, allowing relationships and emotional stakes to develop without ever feeling rushed.
Warm, engaging, and deeply satisfying, this is the kind of novel that pulls you in gently and leaves a lasting impression.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for a temporary e-ARC!
The atmosphere is immersive from the start: serene on the surface, yet charged with unspoken history and longing underneath.
Foster’s characters feel authentic and layered, their connections unfolding with a natural ease that makes every interaction matter.
The pacing is smooth and confident, allowing relationships and emotional stakes to develop without ever feeling rushed.
Warm, engaging, and deeply satisfying, this is the kind of novel that pulls you in gently and leaves a lasting impression.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for a temporary e-ARC!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
For the first time in a long time Pixie Nolan is happy, she's found a home in Bramble, Kentucky, has a job she loves, and a group of friends who are there for her everyday. Her life couldn't get any better... or, well maybe it could!
The Lake House is an emotional page-turner that is destined to warm your heart and leave you perfectly content. In this one we meet a mother who has seen the worst life has to offer, but has been lucky enough to discover the best of it too. Her new life in Kentucky is something she is quite proud of, she has friends who have helped her find her way and given her a chance at a life she never thought she have. They support her and her son and make them feel like they are truly meant to be there, to be part of their little community.
It's the perfect place to raise her little boy and give him the life she never had. She doesn't think she could be any happier... then she meets him, the handsome neighbor who stole her heart even before she met him. Seeing him with his baby girl completely melted her heart, and made her think things she never thought she would again. Love has been the furthest thing from her mind, but now she's thinking why not?
Returning to Bramble, Kentucky was something I was truly looking forward to, as soon as I read the synopsis for this book I just knew I was in for a truly special escape and boy was I right. Ms. Foster really created something wonderful between the pages here. It was emotional and romantic, full of joyful moments that made me smile, and had just a touch of mystery to keep my eyes glued to the pages! Highly recommend!
I requested an advanced copy of this title from the publisher and I am voluntarily leaving my honest and unbiased opinion.
The Lake House is an emotional page-turner that is destined to warm your heart and leave you perfectly content. In this one we meet a mother who has seen the worst life has to offer, but has been lucky enough to discover the best of it too. Her new life in Kentucky is something she is quite proud of, she has friends who have helped her find her way and given her a chance at a life she never thought she have. They support her and her son and make them feel like they are truly meant to be there, to be part of their little community.
It's the perfect place to raise her little boy and give him the life she never had. She doesn't think she could be any happier... then she meets him, the handsome neighbor who stole her heart even before she met him. Seeing him with his baby girl completely melted her heart, and made her think things she never thought she would again. Love has been the furthest thing from her mind, but now she's thinking why not?
Returning to Bramble, Kentucky was something I was truly looking forward to, as soon as I read the synopsis for this book I just knew I was in for a truly special escape and boy was I right. Ms. Foster really created something wonderful between the pages here. It was emotional and romantic, full of joyful moments that made me smile, and had just a touch of mystery to keep my eyes glued to the pages! Highly recommend!
I requested an advanced copy of this title from the publisher and I am voluntarily leaving my honest and unbiased opinion.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
How is it that small children, and babies, “know” good people before adults do? I love their trust and honesty and Ms. Foster gets these two babies spot on!
Brogan Rafferty has had a very rough go of it. Not until he found a family with his SEAL brothers did his life start to seem…good? And then catastrophe. He’s had to move on in life when he becomes guardian to his step-sister’s baby girl, Shayna Raye – or Sugar as he calls her. To me, she’s become his focus and reason to live each day. And they adore one another. He travels to Bramble, Kentucky ostensibly to “get away from life’s drama”, but he’s really here to meet Pixie Nolan, who has her own story to tell.
Pixie has had it rough – just as hard as Brogan in most ways – but she fell into her own found family when she herself showed up in Bramble. And she has a little one of her own, Andy, who is the light of her life. Shayna and Andy are a hoot! They don’t talk yet but they communicate in a language all their own. They are priceless. Cort and Marlow Easton are Shayna’s and Andy’s found family, Brogan’s landlords, and protectors of all. I’ve loved Marlow’s strength and intelligence, and Cort’s protectiveness (from their book/story) and they, along with the townsfolk, make the visit to Bramble extra special. I love how everyone pulls together. Of course, they could just be nosy but it’s all good!
Brogan and Pixie and the kids make a perfect family. Their journey to that HEA is sometimes rough and hard but the rewards are perfect for these four. Loved this story! Loved being back in Bramble. And loved Brogan and Pixie and Shayna and Andy and Marlow and Cort…
Brogan Rafferty has had a very rough go of it. Not until he found a family with his SEAL brothers did his life start to seem…good? And then catastrophe. He’s had to move on in life when he becomes guardian to his step-sister’s baby girl, Shayna Raye – or Sugar as he calls her. To me, she’s become his focus and reason to live each day. And they adore one another. He travels to Bramble, Kentucky ostensibly to “get away from life’s drama”, but he’s really here to meet Pixie Nolan, who has her own story to tell.
Pixie has had it rough – just as hard as Brogan in most ways – but she fell into her own found family when she herself showed up in Bramble. And she has a little one of her own, Andy, who is the light of her life. Shayna and Andy are a hoot! They don’t talk yet but they communicate in a language all their own. They are priceless. Cort and Marlow Easton are Shayna’s and Andy’s found family, Brogan’s landlords, and protectors of all. I’ve loved Marlow’s strength and intelligence, and Cort’s protectiveness (from their book/story) and they, along with the townsfolk, make the visit to Bramble extra special. I love how everyone pulls together. Of course, they could just be nosy but it’s all good!
Brogan and Pixie and the kids make a perfect family. Their journey to that HEA is sometimes rough and hard but the rewards are perfect for these four. Loved this story! Loved being back in Bramble. And loved Brogan and Pixie and Shayna and Andy and Marlow and Cort…
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I absolutely loved the first book in the Firefly Summer series, 'The Guest Cottage', so there was no doubt in my mind that I'd love 'The Lake House' just as much — and I did! (Both books can be read as standalones, but you'll probably want to read the other book as soon as you're done with the first!) It was a joy to discover this second tome on Netgalley, as I'd read the 'The Guest Cottage' just a few months previously and still had the characters fresh in mind. I saved this book for a long, long, 12-hour train journey, and I didn't see the time go by — this book is a sweet, contemporary, feel-good romance to savour. There is no angst, no lack of communication, no fake drama, just two characters — Pixie and Brogan — who fall in love with each other and learn to rely on each other.
A special highlight was the central place that the two babies (that Pixie and Brogan care for) had in this book. The little ones were depicted in a very realistic way and were central to the intrigue, even beyond their initial "purpose" (i.e. the reason Pixie and Brogan meet) — the babies were present "day in and day out" in the book, two little creatures that attracted most of their guardian's attentions, rather than being an afterthought that pops up at convenient times the way it happens in other romances.
I love the way the author writes, it's very fluid, enjoyable, natural. I hope she continues this series (perhaps with the single mom and the policeman mentioned in this book?). One can hope!
A special highlight was the central place that the two babies (that Pixie and Brogan care for) had in this book. The little ones were depicted in a very realistic way and were central to the intrigue, even beyond their initial "purpose" (i.e. the reason Pixie and Brogan meet) — the babies were present "day in and day out" in the book, two little creatures that attracted most of their guardian's attentions, rather than being an afterthought that pops up at convenient times the way it happens in other romances.
I love the way the author writes, it's very fluid, enjoyable, natural. I hope she continues this series (perhaps with the single mom and the policeman mentioned in this book?). One can hope!
Review of advance copy received from Author
We are back in Bramble…and I couldn’t be happier. This time we are finding a happily ever after for Pixie. We meet her in the last book. Pixie was a young single mother doing the best she could. When she came to Bramble she was scared but knew it was her last resort. She was definitely not expecting to fit in as well as she has…and to make life long friends….and to meet the man of her dreams. Brogan has been through a lot. Parents that were anything but good parents. Being a SEAL and seeing things no one should ever see. Now he is renting a lake house in Bramble and has the most important job he has ever had…raising a child. When he came to Bramble he had a few secrets and boy oh boy were we in for a surprise…and I was Here for it. This is a well layered read that sucked me in at page one and never let me go. This is a sweet story about family….blood or found family. A story about standing up for what you believe in. Most of all this is a story about falling in love when you least expect it and figuring everything else out as you go. These characters had great depth and told a heck of a story. These characters had been through a lot separately and were finally where they belonged…with each other. This series is addictive. The characters all have larger than life personalities and are truly there for each other…no matter what. I’m so ready and excited to see what this author brings us next.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Pixie Nolan found happiness in her new life in Bramble, Kentucky, raising her young son, Andy, working in her best friend’s thriving boutique, and designing t-shirts and other items in her spare time. After her disastrous last relationship, she’s sworn off men for a while. However, she can’t help but be attracted to the handsome man renting the cottage next door.
Brogan Rafferty came to Bramble with one purpose. His goal was to remain unnoticed, accomplish his mission, and leave town. What he didn’t expect to find was a caring community, new friends, and love, but that’s exactly what he found. He’s drawn to Pixie from the start, loves seeing her with her young son, and the way she interacts with his infant niece, Shayna, who he’s now raising as his own.
Pixie and Brogan spend a lot of time getting to know each other and, in spite of wanting to remain under the radar, he finds the community welcomes him. He’s become a local hero in their eyes. When he reveals his purpose for coming to Bramble to Pixie, he isn’t expecting her reaction but is overjoyed with it. Then trouble comes calling.
I loved this story! I would love to see Brogan’s friend, Erin. be the next to find happiness in Bramble.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Brogan Rafferty came to Bramble with one purpose. His goal was to remain unnoticed, accomplish his mission, and leave town. What he didn’t expect to find was a caring community, new friends, and love, but that’s exactly what he found. He’s drawn to Pixie from the start, loves seeing her with her young son, and the way she interacts with his infant niece, Shayna, who he’s now raising as his own.
Pixie and Brogan spend a lot of time getting to know each other and, in spite of wanting to remain under the radar, he finds the community welcomes him. He’s become a local hero in their eyes. When he reveals his purpose for coming to Bramble to Pixie, he isn’t expecting her reaction but is overjoyed with it. Then trouble comes calling.
I loved this story! I would love to see Brogan’s friend, Erin. be the next to find happiness in Bramble.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
February 9, 2026
THE LAKE HOUSE by Lori Foster
Release Date May 26, 2026
Brogan Rafferty had a very rough upbringing. He didn’t feel like he was part of a family until he became a navy Seal and considered his team to be his brothers. After losing his whole team and being injured himself, he could find no good reason to go on. Until he gets the shocking news that he has a niece that is in need of him as a guardian.
Pixie has her own sad past. She came to Bramble Kentucky with her infant son, and she couldn’t have arrived in worse condition. She was alone and very ill. Cort and Marlow Easton took Shayna under their wing helped her get healthy and gave her a job. Now they are a part of her family.
There is a depth to the story that is so intriguing. Imagine being at your lowest point and the only person you can turn to is the wife of the man that you slept with. And then comes the gorgeous man with his little girl, and you instantly have a connection with him. And your son Andy also loves that baby girl and he keeps saying “My Baby”.
#tissues needed
#strong friend/family bonds
#cutest kids ever
I love this one so much that I could actually see this being made into a movie. I absolutely loved the first installment The Guest Cottage. But this one I absolutely could not put down!
Please give me a movie or a miniseries!
Thank you Lori Foster for another AMAZING read!
Release Date May 26, 2026
Brogan Rafferty had a very rough upbringing. He didn’t feel like he was part of a family until he became a navy Seal and considered his team to be his brothers. After losing his whole team and being injured himself, he could find no good reason to go on. Until he gets the shocking news that he has a niece that is in need of him as a guardian.
Pixie has her own sad past. She came to Bramble Kentucky with her infant son, and she couldn’t have arrived in worse condition. She was alone and very ill. Cort and Marlow Easton took Shayna under their wing helped her get healthy and gave her a job. Now they are a part of her family.
There is a depth to the story that is so intriguing. Imagine being at your lowest point and the only person you can turn to is the wife of the man that you slept with. And then comes the gorgeous man with his little girl, and you instantly have a connection with him. And your son Andy also loves that baby girl and he keeps saying “My Baby”.
#tissues needed
#strong friend/family bonds
#cutest kids ever
I love this one so much that I could actually see this being made into a movie. I absolutely loved the first installment The Guest Cottage. But this one I absolutely could not put down!
Please give me a movie or a miniseries!
Thank you Lori Foster for another AMAZING read!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
It was good to get back to Bramble, Kentucky, and connect with Pixie, Cort, and Marlow. This installment focuses on Pixie and her son, Andy. Pixie’s life changes when Brogan Rafferty arrives to rent one of Cort’s lakeside properties.
I loved Brogan’s character! It’s not often we read about a single man caring for a baby or with such an interesting backstory. Brogan arrives looking for a fresh start. He’s survived being an emancipated youth, Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL training, an ambush, and life-threatening injuries on assignment in North Africa, and now, he's solely responsible for a tiny life.
I appreciated a focus on our capacity for love and acceptance, on giving each other a sense of community, of deepening roots, and on gaining a real sense of ‘home’, but I’ll remember this one mostly for the idea that good people still exist and fate helps us find them when we need them.
The twist in this one was FANTASTIC!
If you enjoy second chances and characters who do the right thing and genuinely care for and help others, this one is a wonderful read. I would add that you must like children and want to read about young children to appreciate this one fully.
⚠️ two instances of swearing, closed-door fade to black romance
I loved Brogan’s character! It’s not often we read about a single man caring for a baby or with such an interesting backstory. Brogan arrives looking for a fresh start. He’s survived being an emancipated youth, Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL training, an ambush, and life-threatening injuries on assignment in North Africa, and now, he's solely responsible for a tiny life.
I appreciated a focus on our capacity for love and acceptance, on giving each other a sense of community, of deepening roots, and on gaining a real sense of ‘home’, but I’ll remember this one mostly for the idea that good people still exist and fate helps us find them when we need them.
The twist in this one was FANTASTIC!
If you enjoy second chances and characters who do the right thing and genuinely care for and help others, this one is a wonderful read. I would add that you must like children and want to read about young children to appreciate this one fully.
⚠️ two instances of swearing, closed-door fade to black romance
Review of advance copy received from Author
This story is about Pixie and Brogan. If you read the other book in this series, you will remember Pixie - and if you haven’t (while I recommend it!) this book gives you the necessary back story so you won’t feel confused. Pixie is a single mom who is thriving in Bramble, Kentucky with her son. She is running a boutique for Marlow (who is married to Cort from the first book) and helping with a rental cottage while Marlow and Cort are out of town. Doing that, she meets Brogan Rafferty, a retired Navy SEAL with a complicated past who is learning to care for his niece.
There are other reasons Brogan is in town, and I won’t spoil them, but it makes for a wonderful story as he and Pixie get to know each other and open up about their painful pasts. Add in some crazy relatives of Brogan’s and you get a sweet romance with just a hint of suspense. The town of Bramble and its citizens are also like a third character in this book painting a scene of a small town I’d love to visit! Overall, a great story and I can’t wait to see where the series goes next!
I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy of this book. This is my true and honest opinion.
There are other reasons Brogan is in town, and I won’t spoil them, but it makes for a wonderful story as he and Pixie get to know each other and open up about their painful pasts. Add in some crazy relatives of Brogan’s and you get a sweet romance with just a hint of suspense. The town of Bramble and its citizens are also like a third character in this book painting a scene of a small town I’d love to visit! Overall, a great story and I can’t wait to see where the series goes next!
I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy of this book. This is my true and honest opinion.
January 5, 2026
This is a feel good book. If you read The Guest Cottage then you have met the people of Bramble, Kentucky. We met Pixie in The Guest Cottage where she was a scared, alone, sick new mother who needed help and had no one to turn to, and made a decision to ask her baby’s daddy’s widow, Marlow for help. As they became a family she understood what love, understanding and forgiveness meant. When Brogan showed up to rent the lake house Pixie was enchanted and intrigued, not just with Brogan but with Shayna also. As they got to know each other and got closer, Brogan came clean about why he was there after Shayna’s grandmother came and confronted Pixie about the whereabouts of Brogan. As Pixie fell harder for the two of them, Brogan continued to show Bramble and the surrounding communities why he is the man he is as he helps in different emergencies. As Brogan and Pixie continue to grow closer and form their family, Colt and Marlow also bring Brogan and Shayna into their family. It is hard not to love these characters and the families they have made.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This is the second book set in the charming small town of Bramble, Kentucky—a place overflowing with heart and community. Brogan arrives in Bramble carrying the weight of responsibility and love for his baby daughter, renting a quiet lake house in hopes of finding some peace. Nearby lives Pixie, a devoted single mom raising her toddler son, and from the moment they meet, the connection between them is powerful and impossible to ignore.
As Brogan becomes woven into the fabric of the town, he repeatedly steps in to protect and help others, earning the trust and affection of the people around him. What begins as a temporary stop slowly starts to feel like home. With two guarded hearts and two young children at the center of their lives, Brogan and Pixie must decide whether taking a risk on love is worth changing everything. Their journey is tender, emotional, and filled with the hope that sometimes the place you least expect can become the home—and happily ever after—you’ve been searching for.
As Brogan becomes woven into the fabric of the town, he repeatedly steps in to protect and help others, earning the trust and affection of the people around him. What begins as a temporary stop slowly starts to feel like home. With two guarded hearts and two young children at the center of their lives, Brogan and Pixie must decide whether taking a risk on love is worth changing everything. Their journey is tender, emotional, and filled with the hope that sometimes the place you least expect can become the home—and happily ever after—you’ve been searching for.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A secret. A connection. A forever after.
That's what this longstanding, prominent romance author delivers in "The Lake House".
Pixie and Brogan may be apart in years but their respective experiences pull them together.
Author showcases this in a slow, steady buildup to their romance. Their initial physical attraction takes a back seat to the mutual admiration each discovers as they witness either large acts of heroism or smaller ones with daily interactions.
Where the author shines though is in the tender moments with the little ones featured in the story. Descriptions of Josh and "Sugar" are so well done, the reader easily can picture them. What they say, how the act, will only endear them as much as the romantic duo of Pixie and Brogan.
This is a sequel but can be easily read as a standalone..
#TheLakeHouse #NetGalley
This ARC was provided by the publisher, Kensington Publishing | Kensington, via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
That's what this longstanding, prominent romance author delivers in "The Lake House".
Pixie and Brogan may be apart in years but their respective experiences pull them together.
Author showcases this in a slow, steady buildup to their romance. Their initial physical attraction takes a back seat to the mutual admiration each discovers as they witness either large acts of heroism or smaller ones with daily interactions.
Where the author shines though is in the tender moments with the little ones featured in the story. Descriptions of Josh and "Sugar" are so well done, the reader easily can picture them. What they say, how the act, will only endear them as much as the romantic duo of Pixie and Brogan.
This is a sequel but can be easily read as a standalone..
#TheLakeHouse #NetGalley
This ARC was provided by the publisher, Kensington Publishing | Kensington, via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
January 21, 2026
My Thoughts
A year later has brought so many positive changes in the lives of both Pixie Nolan and her now toddler son Andy.
The scared young single mother has regained her full strength, her confidence in herself as a mom and has finally realized their new life is almost perfect.
Pixie is contentedly settled into her home life and work routine when Brogan Rafferty rents The Lake House next door for the summer and both he and his adorable infant start stirring up wants and desires that are both scary and also long overdue.
Small lakeside town of Bramble Kentucky once again works its particular "magic".
Just as smooth and easily captivating a read for me as its predecessor, only this time with added charm via an infant and a toddlers’ interactions throughout.
The best kind of second chance/new beginnings story to enjoy from start to finish.
[EArc from Netgalley]
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Oh my gosh, I so enjoy this series.
This book is a sweet second chance beach read.
Pixie is adorable and I love the backbone of steel she tries to hide. Not only is she a great person, she's a caring friend and a loving mom and her heart is so big.
Andy is a hoot! That little one kept everyone on their toes and only added to the cuteness of this story.
Brogan was a puzzle at first. It was hard to tell if his secret was going to blow everyone's world up or just change things up. Brogan and his niece stole the story. His love and compassion for that sweet baby girl stole my heart too. The way he tries to stay in the background and not be noticed was so funny even as he rushed to help those in need. And the fact that he has a heart as big as he is just made him all the more sexy and yummy.
Pixie and Brogan are beginning their real story and I know it will be epic!
Thank you for the opportunity to read and review this book.
This book is a sweet second chance beach read.
Pixie is adorable and I love the backbone of steel she tries to hide. Not only is she a great person, she's a caring friend and a loving mom and her heart is so big.
Andy is a hoot! That little one kept everyone on their toes and only added to the cuteness of this story.
Brogan was a puzzle at first. It was hard to tell if his secret was going to blow everyone's world up or just change things up. Brogan and his niece stole the story. His love and compassion for that sweet baby girl stole my heart too. The way he tries to stay in the background and not be noticed was so funny even as he rushed to help those in need. And the fact that he has a heart as big as he is just made him all the more sexy and yummy.
Pixie and Brogan are beginning their real story and I know it will be epic!
Thank you for the opportunity to read and review this book.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The Lake House is the next installment in Lori Foster’s Firefly Summer series, and much like the previous book, it delivers an easy, straightforward romance that’s perfect when you want something low-stress and familiar. This one does bring a bit more drama to the table, which adds some needed excitement and raises the stakes more than the first book.
That said, there are stretches where the pacing slows way down, and a few scenes feel like they linger longer than necessary, dragging the story a bit. While the romance is sweet and comfortable, it doesn’t always maintain momentum.
I do recommend reading the previous book in the series first, as it provides helpful background on the characters and the foundation of the story, making this installment more enjoyable overall.
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
That said, there are stretches where the pacing slows way down, and a few scenes feel like they linger longer than necessary, dragging the story a bit. While the romance is sweet and comfortable, it doesn’t always maintain momentum.
I do recommend reading the previous book in the series first, as it provides helpful background on the characters and the foundation of the story, making this installment more enjoyable overall.
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book, given to me by Kensington Publishing via Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
“The Lake House”, by Lori Foster, is a heartwarming read featuring two guarded but very caring, honest people and the adorable babies who will captivate everyone.
I loved the honesty and the natural way Brogan and Pixie fall in love and how the babies are a fundamental part of the process.
Watching them spend time, doing things together and enjoying each other’s company and the little ones is delightful.
There’s a lot of ugliness, pain and sad things happening now or in the characters’ past but there’s also so much love, affection, kindness and tenderness flowing in the story.
Even though there’s a lot of melodrama I liked that overall it is external and both leads are grounded people.
The domesticity and the caring for the babies is cute.
I appreciated the small-town atmosphere.
I felt the story drags at times and could be shortened.
“The Lake House”, by Lori Foster, is a heartwarming read featuring two guarded but very caring, honest people and the adorable babies who will captivate everyone.
I loved the honesty and the natural way Brogan and Pixie fall in love and how the babies are a fundamental part of the process.
Watching them spend time, doing things together and enjoying each other’s company and the little ones is delightful.
There’s a lot of ugliness, pain and sad things happening now or in the characters’ past but there’s also so much love, affection, kindness and tenderness flowing in the story.
Even though there’s a lot of melodrama I liked that overall it is external and both leads are grounded people.
The domesticity and the caring for the babies is cute.
I appreciated the small-town atmosphere.
I felt the story drags at times and could be shortened.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
If you have read the first Firefly Summer book, you get to know Pixie and her son, Andy, pretty well. So, I'm thrilled the author chose her for The Lake House.
I loved getting back into this small town world with all their quirky but caring townsfolk, and I couldn't be happier with her match. Brogan was darn near perfect in every way. I loved how protective and kind he was. The way he stepped up to care for his half sister's baby will melt your heart. He just had this teeny tiny issue of believing he wasn't the good person everyone saw that he was. Good thing Pixie and the many people who come into his life in the town of Bramble teach him otherwise.
This was a sweet love story much like the first book in the series and I will happily read more if the author so chooses to continue writing and expanding the Firefly Summer series.
I loved getting back into this small town world with all their quirky but caring townsfolk, and I couldn't be happier with her match. Brogan was darn near perfect in every way. I loved how protective and kind he was. The way he stepped up to care for his half sister's baby will melt your heart. He just had this teeny tiny issue of believing he wasn't the good person everyone saw that he was. Good thing Pixie and the many people who come into his life in the town of Bramble teach him otherwise.
This was a sweet love story much like the first book in the series and I will happily read more if the author so chooses to continue writing and expanding the Firefly Summer series.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
3.5 stars
I really enjoyed the second part of this series and finished it in record time—it only took me a couple of days to read it all. For those of us who aren’t native English speakers, it’s easy to follow and generally doesn’t use words or expressions that are hard to understand from the context.
The story itself is very sweet, and the interaction with the children and the other characters is truly heartwarming. That said, as with the first part, I found it a bit too short. I think a deeper development in some areas—without falling into repetition, of course—would improve the overall result of the book.
In any case, it’s definitely worth reading, and if there’s a third part, I’ll certainly continue with the series.
Thanks to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for the advanced copy of the book.
I really enjoyed the second part of this series and finished it in record time—it only took me a couple of days to read it all. For those of us who aren’t native English speakers, it’s easy to follow and generally doesn’t use words or expressions that are hard to understand from the context.
The story itself is very sweet, and the interaction with the children and the other characters is truly heartwarming. That said, as with the first part, I found it a bit too short. I think a deeper development in some areas—without falling into repetition, of course—would improve the overall result of the book.
In any case, it’s definitely worth reading, and if there’s a third part, I’ll certainly continue with the series.
Thanks to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for the advanced copy of the book.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I loved The Lake House by Lori Foster! It is the second book in the Firefly Summer series. The first book was The Guest Cottage. I loved it just as much as the second! Each can be read as a stand-alone.
The setting, as in the first book, is in Bramble, Kentucky. It is a small town with close-knit residents. Pixie Nolan and Brogan Rafferty each are trying to overcome their issues from childhood as well as deal with their own child and related issues that come with the responsibility. There are many twists and turns as you learn how and why they end up in Bramble, Kentucky.
I love second-chance romances because they are so heart-warming. I read The Lake House in two days because I could not put it down.
If Lori decides to add another book in this series, I will absolutely read it!
The setting, as in the first book, is in Bramble, Kentucky. It is a small town with close-knit residents. Pixie Nolan and Brogan Rafferty each are trying to overcome their issues from childhood as well as deal with their own child and related issues that come with the responsibility. There are many twists and turns as you learn how and why they end up in Bramble, Kentucky.
I love second-chance romances because they are so heart-warming. I read The Lake House in two days because I could not put it down.
If Lori decides to add another book in this series, I will absolutely read it!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Review for The Lake House
*Spoilers*
When Brogan Rafferty goes to Bramble Kentucky with his infant niece Shayna so to meet Pixie Nolan he finds out Pixie is more than he expected her to be.
Brogan goes to Bramble to meet Pixie because he wants his niece Shayna to have the family he never had. Pixie turns out to be everything he expected and more. What he didn't expect was his attraction to Pixie. Or to fall in love with her.
Pixie swore off men after an ill-fated affair left her pregnant and alone. She came to Bramble to ask for help with her infant son Andy from her late former lover's widow and found a family she never expected. She also found her self respect and self worth. A year later her resolve is tested by Brogan.
As the summer goes by, love blossoms and secrets are revealed. Brogan and Pixie find their happily ever after and a ready made family.
*Spoilers*
When Brogan Rafferty goes to Bramble Kentucky with his infant niece Shayna so to meet Pixie Nolan he finds out Pixie is more than he expected her to be.
Brogan goes to Bramble to meet Pixie because he wants his niece Shayna to have the family he never had. Pixie turns out to be everything he expected and more. What he didn't expect was his attraction to Pixie. Or to fall in love with her.
Pixie swore off men after an ill-fated affair left her pregnant and alone. She came to Bramble to ask for help with her infant son Andy from her late former lover's widow and found a family she never expected. She also found her self respect and self worth. A year later her resolve is tested by Brogan.
As the summer goes by, love blossoms and secrets are revealed. Brogan and Pixie find their happily ever after and a ready made family.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I loved returning to Bramble,KY. & reuniting with Pixie & her 14 month old son Andy. She was featured in book #1 The Guest Cottage. Sick & with a newborn,she made her way to Margo (her baby daddy’s wife) who took her in,treated her like family & helped her make a new life for her & her son. She’s now the manager for the store that Margo owns & she is also a freelance designer. Retired Navy Seal Brogan Rafferty’s team was ambushed in North Africa & after losing fellow Seal brothers,he learns his half sister has passed & he has guardianship of her infant daughter Shayna/Sugar. He rents a lake house from Margo & her second husband Cort for the summer…..Brogan has good intentions for landing in town & it involves both babies. Make sure you grab a copy of this 5 ⭐️ feel good book & find out how it plays out 💞 Thank you Lori Foster for entertaining us with your wonderful stories.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This story leaves you with the warm fuzzy feelings deep in your heart. Brogan has lost everyone important to him and has hit rock bottom. His sister brings him back with the important task of raising her baby daughter Shayna. He goes to Bramble to unite shayna with her half brother Andy. But first he has to go through a very protective mother, Pixie and her friends Marlow and Cort. Brogan struggles with his secret and self worth throughout the story as he saves lives, helps the people of the town in their time of need and fights his evil stepmother.
This story would make a fantastic action movie. The description and mannerism of Andy were spot on. I enjoyed his baby actions and talk. The secondary characters all had their own story to tell and Ms Foster weaved them all together for us to enjoy. I highly recommend this book to anyone needing a well rounded read.
This story would make a fantastic action movie. The description and mannerism of Andy were spot on. I enjoyed his baby actions and talk. The secondary characters all had their own story to tell and Ms Foster weaved them all together for us to enjoy. I highly recommend this book to anyone needing a well rounded read.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Pixie Nolan is a single mother raising her little boy. She arrived in Bramble, Kentucky sick and needing help. She lives near her best friend Marlow and her husband Cort, who despite their past, took her in and helped her. Brogan Rafferty arrives with a baby girl and rents the lake house for the summer. Brogan is a former SEAL and was injured and retired. Brogan specifically rented the house near Pixie so he could get to know her and get close to her. But then someone from Brogan’s past shows up and starts telling tales. Brogan and Pixie learn to trust each other and to love again.
This was such a sweet, funny, and a little sexy story. Both have been hurt in the past. Secrets are being hidden. A little boy who is the cutest thing.
* VOLUNTARILY READ AND REVIEWED FOR NETGALLEY *
This was such a sweet, funny, and a little sexy story. Both have been hurt in the past. Secrets are being hidden. A little boy who is the cutest thing.
* VOLUNTARILY READ AND REVIEWED FOR NETGALLEY *
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A very welcome return to the lovely little town of Bramble.
I read the first book in this series and loved it, and this one had that same feeling throughout. This is Pixie's story, who was a new addition to Bramble in the last book. She's found her feet and has settled down well into the town with her young son, but the addition of Brogan arriving to rent the nearby house, along with his baby 'daughter' throws Pixie slightly, as they are immediately attracted to one another, but Brogan has secrets he's hiding from Pixie which is why he's arrived in Bramble.
Another great addition to this lovely series. Real feel good books with a bit of drama to keep things interesting with nuisance relatives!
I read the first book in this series and loved it, and this one had that same feeling throughout. This is Pixie's story, who was a new addition to Bramble in the last book. She's found her feet and has settled down well into the town with her young son, but the addition of Brogan arriving to rent the nearby house, along with his baby 'daughter' throws Pixie slightly, as they are immediately attracted to one another, but Brogan has secrets he's hiding from Pixie which is why he's arrived in Bramble.
Another great addition to this lovely series. Real feel good books with a bit of drama to keep things interesting with nuisance relatives!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Bramble is a place that welcomes and heals which Brogan experiences first hand. Brogan came to Bramble to meet Pixie and her son, Andy, and have them meet Shayna, his niece. Brogan and Pixie had a lot in common but they also provided the other with things they needed and missed having in their lives-comfort, acceptance and security. Andy was so sweet with Shayna and their bond was instantaneous. It was nice to see how Marlowe, Colt and the whole town took to Brogan and it was both heart breaking and heart affirming to watch him learn to accept their gratitude and acceptance. This one has all the feels and made my heart happy. Enjoy!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This story is likely to be my last one for 2025 and it's a really good one.
Set by the lake in Kentucky, this small town is quite the community of caring people.
Brogan arrives for a few months and settles into a rental on the lake with a baby. Pixie close by with her toddler. He's an inactive SEAL with scars both physical and mental and he arrived with a purpose. As it comes to light Pixie is there for him.
His heroic acts in town have already endeared him to the community and when trouble comes the whole town will stand by him.
If you love second chances, small towns and good people you'll love this story too.
Set by the lake in Kentucky, this small town is quite the community of caring people.
Brogan arrives for a few months and settles into a rental on the lake with a baby. Pixie close by with her toddler. He's an inactive SEAL with scars both physical and mental and he arrived with a purpose. As it comes to light Pixie is there for him.
His heroic acts in town have already endeared him to the community and when trouble comes the whole town will stand by him.
If you love second chances, small towns and good people you'll love this story too.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
We're back in the small and friendly town of Bramble and visiting with Marlow, Cort and Pixie again. My heart hurt for both Marlow and Pixie in the first book where Marlow knew her husband had cheated on her and that Pixie found out she was the other woman. Now they are best friends and Pixie has the most adorable little boy Andy. Brogan is new to town with his baby niece and traveled to Bramble with a purpose. He is a former Navy Seal that got out after being injured but still has the protective instincts and becomes a local hero. I loved how accepting people in Bramble are, how friendly and the sense of community. The response to the twist warmed my heart.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The Lake House is an emotional and heartwarming story of redemption, hope, the power of the love of family (in many cases, “found” family), and being open to change. I loved this story of Pixie and Brogan and their adorable children, watching as they both learned to let go of past hurts and open themselves to the positive changes and people that life brought to them. I only wish I could visit the idyllic community of Bramble and spend real time with its many characters. I certainly hope we are more visits to Bramble in future books. I highly recommend both this book and the first Firefly Summer book, The Guest Cottage.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The Lake House is a great second book in the series. It is an easy read. It talks about real world insecurities and problems. At touches on grief and guilt and moving on. It is a very touching and heart warming book.
Brogan has been fighting battles his whole life. He has never had anyone to back him up until he found his military Brothers. Bramble is a place he just doesnt understand but desperately wants to be a part of.
Pixie had a rough go of it when she first came to Bramble but now she is part of who they are. She is just the one too stand at Brogans side and be the Family is has always wanted.
Brogan has been fighting battles his whole life. He has never had anyone to back him up until he found his military Brothers. Bramble is a place he just doesnt understand but desperately wants to be a part of.
Pixie had a rough go of it when she first came to Bramble but now she is part of who they are. She is just the one too stand at Brogans side and be the Family is has always wanted.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The Lake House is Pixie’s and Brogan’s story. Pixie has become an independent young mother, getting a second chance in Bramble, KY. Brogan rents the Lake House to start fresh with his infant niece after becoming her guardian when his half-sister is killed. This is a heartwarming story of second chances, learning to forgive one’s self, the importance of family, and embracing the future. This is book 2 in a Firefly Summer. It can be read as a standalone but I highly recommend both books in the series. The development of the characters is wonderful and getting to know everyone brings the entire community alive.
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