The Lake House

Firefly Summer #2

by Lori Foster

Second 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.

Genres: Romance, Contemporary, Contemporary Romance, Fiction, Found Family, Summer Reads, Family

337 pages, Paperback

First published May 26, 2026

About the author

Since 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.

Reviews

[Wendy · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Lake House is the second book in Lori Foster's "Firefly Summer" series but can certainly be read as a standalone.
Pixie Nolan an abandoned and desperate young single mother found hope and healing in Bramble, Kentucky. She has made a fresh start with the support of her dear friends and never expected to make an instant connection with a retired Navy SEAL with his own complicated past.
A feel good novel of unexpected love and second chances.

Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for an arc of this novel in exchange for my honest review.

[Terry · Rating 4 out of 5]

A sweet romance about second chances. This story takes place in a small town by a lake in Kentucky. I loved the characters and the sense of community that the small town evoked.

[Gina · Rating 5 out of 5]

An enjoyable second chance at romance in a small town. I loved how Lori Foster brings together two people who were not looking for love. This is the story of Pixie, Brogan, Pixie’s son, Andy, and Brogan’s cute niece, Shayna. It’s so cute how Andy quickly gets attached to Shayna and for good reasons. I like it when Lori brings back people from the previous book in the series. I’m so loving this series! You never disappoint Lori!!!

[Abbie Withrow · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a great book. I won it in a giveaway on Goodreads, I didn’t realize it was book two of a series but that was completely okay. Book one is now on my TBR list lol !
It was a great summer read. When I realized it was based in a small Kentucky town I was all in. But the writing has a way of hooking you in and keeping you reading! It covers some serious topics yet does so in a soft way and it has a way of keeping a positive perspective through all the though times.

[Vickie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Pixie Nolan is a single mom living her best life in the little town of Bramble and leaning heavily on her best friend Marlow and Marlow’s husband Cort to support her. When a stranger rents the lake house next to her, she is enchanted by his good looks but really loves the baby girl that he is the guardian for. Pixie and Brogan bond over their single parenthood and find out that they have a great deal in common. In fact, Brogan is guarding a secret that makes them even closer than Pixie knows. With a vindictive stepmother visiting Bramble to try to cause havoc for Brogan, Marlow, Cort and Pixie circle around Brogan and support him like the military hero veteran that he is. The characters were well-developed, relatable and lovable. The plot was fast-paced with a few surprises and a lot of character-based drama. This is a book that begs to be read in one setting because it is so hard to put down. I was completely invested in everyone finding their happily ever after, especially the cutie-pie kids.
I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions expressed are my own.

[Darcy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This one drew me in right away. I liked Brogan, wondered about his mission in Bramble, so glad that it turned out to be a good thing. The way that he and Pixie connected from the start was great! While it took a bit for Brogan to come clean with Pixie about things, she took it well. I think the time they spent together helped, she knew he was a good man. When Pixie got an up close look at what Brogan had dealt with in the past, it seemed to spur her on to fully accept what Brogan told her and see it as a positive thing.

I loved the ending, loved how Brogan got to see the town fully accept him and think so great of him, something that up to now had been lacking in his life. Better was that with this new start came Pixie and Andy, their little family of 4 perfect!

[Shari Summers · Rating 2 out of 5]

I didn't realize when I picked up The Lake House that it was the second book in a series, and I do wonder if reading the first book would have helped me connect more deeply with the story and characters.

There were definitely things I enjoyed. Pixie and Brogan were both likable characters, and I appreciated the sense of community and friendship that ran throughout the book. There were also several story elements that had a lot of potential and could have been especially compelling if they had been developed a bit further.

For me, though, the pacing felt uneven. Some parts of the story seemed repetitive, and I found myself wishing certain plot points had been explored in more depth. The romance also felt a little rushed, and some of the dialogue between the main characters came across as somewhat awkward or cheesy, making it difficult for me to fully invest in their relationship.

Overall, this was an okay read for me. While it didn't completely hold my attention, I liked the characters enough to finish the book, and I'm still curious about the first installment in the series. I've heard many readers feel the story is more fully developed there, so I may go back and give it a try sometime. If you enjoy small-town romances with themes of healing, friendship, and second chances, this one may work better for you than it did for me.

Thank you, NetGalley, for a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ – Loved it! Would reread… if my TBR wasn’t out of control. Highly recommend!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ – Great read! Really enjoyed it and would recommend.
⭐️⭐️⭐️ – Good read! Glad I picked it up.
⭐️⭐️ – Just okay. Didn’t love it, didn’t hate it.
⭐️ – Not for me. Wouldn’t recommend.

[Wanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great beach read! A loving and uplifting small town romance with kindness at every turn. some quirky characters that come in and out of Pixie and Brogans life will make you smile with all its cuteness. Thank you Goodreads and Kensington Publishing for this ARC book.

[The Bookish Narwhal · Rating 5 out of 5]

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!

[Barbara Selman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you Netgalley for this wonderful early copy for my honest review. I just love everything Lori Fosters books but the Lake House is one of my favorites of hers. It grabbed me from the very beginning. There were some secrets revealed and I certainly didn’t see it coming. You will love Brogan and Pixies story and I loved being along on their journey along with their two precious baby’s. Pixie and Brogan both have quite the past that no one wants but together they learn to become each others best friend and even more. But most of all they figure out how to move forward and support one another through it all and it’s a lot. You won’t want to put his book down as you will want to know what happens next and when the end comes……you will want more. Don’t miss this special heartfelt book and be sure to have your tissue ready.

[Kimberly · Rating 4 out of 5]

Everything is calm on the surface, but underneath? Secrets, second chances, and one emotionally guarded Navy SEAL with a baby are about to flip an entire small town upside down—and I was not emotionally prepared. The Lake House by Lori Foster quietly wrecked me in that slow, sneaky way where you don’t realize you’re attached until it’s too late. Published by Kensington Publishing—huge thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the gifted ARC.

This story doesn’t come in loud—it settles in. It’s that gentle, layered kind of romance that builds through trust, through shared glances, through showing up when it matters. Pixie Nolan is no longer the woman who arrived in Bramble broken and desperate—she’s rebuilding, raising her son Andy, working, creating, and finally starting to believe she deserves something steady. And then Brogan Rafferty shows up next door with his baby niece Shayna and a past that feels like it’s breathing down his neck.

And listen… I love a broody, protective man as much as the next reader—but Brogan? He’s not just broody. He’s carrying grief, guilt, responsibility… and still somehow shows up with this quiet, steady tenderness that makes you trust him before you even mean to. The way he cares for Shayna? The way he instinctively protects Pixie and Andy without overstepping? Yeah… that’s the kind of emotional slow burn that hits different.

What really got me, though, was how real this felt. There’s no over-the-top drama, no unnecessary chaos—just two people who have every reason to hold back… choosing not to. And the kids? Andy and Shayna completely own this story. Their little bond, the way Andy proudly calls her “my baby,” the way their worlds start to blend without anyone forcing it—it’s soft in the best way, like watching something right fall into place.

And then there’s Bramble itself—the kind of town that feels like a character. A little nosy, a lot loyal, and always ready to circle the wagons when one of their own is threatened. Because yes… there’s a thread of tension running underneath it all. Brogan didn’t just land here by accident, and when the truth starts to surface, it doesn’t explode into chaos—it deepens everything. It forces honesty. It tests trust. And somehow… it makes the connection stronger instead of breaking it.

“At some point, you have to stop surviving and start living.”

That line didn’t just hit—it lingered. Because that’s what this story is really about. Not just falling in love, but allowing yourself to believe you deserve a life that feels safe, steady… and maybe even a little bit beautiful.

This is for the reader who doesn’t need high drama to feel invested. The one who loves found family, quiet healing, single parents figuring it out one day at a time, and a romance that feels earned instead of rushed. If you like your love stories wrapped in warmth with just enough emotional weight to make it stick—this one delivers.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

A solid 4-star read for me—comforting, heartfelt, and the kind of story you sink into when you want to feel something real without completely falling apart.

So tell me—are you picking the peaceful small-town life with a second chance at love… or are you still chasing the chaos? 👀

#TheLakeHouse #LoriFoster #FireflySummer #ContemporaryRomance #SmallTownRomance #FoundFamily #SingleParentRomance #SlowBurnRomance #Bookstagram #ARCReview #NetGalleyReads #RomanceReaders #CozyReads #EmotionalReads #MustReadRomance

[Kat ~ Forever Book Lover ♥ · Rating 5 out of 5]

★★★★★

Returning to Bramble, Kentucky felt a little like coming home.

After meeting Pixie Nolan in The Guest Cottage, I was excited to see her get her own story, and Lori Foster did not disappoint. The Lake House is a heartfelt romance filled with healing, found family, second chances, and the kind of emotional connection that develops naturally and feels completely earned.

Pixie has worked hard to rebuild her life and create a safe, happy future for herself and her son, Andy. She is stronger than she realizes, but her past still lingers beneath the surface. When retired Navy SEAL Brogan Rafferty arrives next door with his infant niece Shayna, neither of them is looking for love. Yet their connection grows through shared responsibilities, trust, and a genuine understanding of what it means to carry emotional scars while still hoping for something better.

One of my favorite aspects of this story was the children. Andy and Shayna are not simply side characters—they become the heart of the story in many ways. Watching their bond develop added warmth, humor, and emotional depth to every interaction between Pixie and Brogan.

Brogan was exactly the kind of hero I love reading about. Protective without being overbearing, strong yet vulnerable, and completely devoted to the little girl depending on him. His quiet tenderness made him impossible not to root for.

One of my favorite quotes from the book was:

“You’re everything good that I never imagined in my life. I want this life, with you in it.”

That line perfectly captures the emotional heart of this story. The Lake House is about more than romance—it is about learning to trust, accepting that you deserve happiness, and finding family in unexpected places.

The small-town setting, supportive community, lovable characters, and emotional depth made this a wonderful reading experience. If you enjoy small-town romance, found family, protective heroes, and stories about healing and second chances, I highly recommend this one.

Thank you to Kensington Publishing and NetGalley for providing an advance review copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

To read the full review and more, come visit me at Forever Book Lover.

[Cathy Geha · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Lake House by Lori Foster
Firefly Summer #2

~ Family can be a blessing or a curse ~ sometimes people who come into our lives can become a close-knit group that is the closets “family” of all ~

What I liked:
* Brogan Rafferty: retired Navy SEAL, single parent of infant niece (Shayna Raye), difficult childhood, joined military young, dealing with survivor’s guilt, strong, inteeligent, aware, safety & protection oriented, loves his niece, has a plan that includes Pixie and her son
* Pixie Nolan: single mother of Andy, manager of a boutique, creative, artistic, empathetic, good friend, supportive, positive, loving mother, responsible, honest, settling into her new stronger identity in Bramble, arrived in the series in book one, attracted to Brogan
* Andy Nolan: Shayna’s son, biological father was a philanderer now deceased, claims Shayna as “My Baby”
* Shayna: infant, assigned Brogan as her guardian, daughter of Brogan’s deceased half-sister Connie, provides impetus for Brogan’s visit to Bramble Kentucky
* Watching the interactions between Brogan and Pixie and seeing their relationship grow
* The love that abounded in this story: between friends, community, parents and their children, couples, and those that were soon to be couples
* The way Brogan stepped into warrior-protector-rescue mode more than once in the story
* Being reminded of a summer on a lake where my sister could have been Benny and how lucky Benny was while others in his situation have not been
* The small-town community feeling that is there for one another
* The open honest mature communication between Pixie and Brogan and also they way they communicated with the children
* The side romance that might be brewing between officer Flynn and Ellen (Benny’s mother)
* Wondering if perhaps Erin will star in the next book of the series
* All of it really except…

What I didn’t like:
* Thinking about how difficult the lives of both Brogan and Pixie were in the past

Did I like this book? Yes
Would I read more by this author? Definitely

Thank you to the author, NetGalley, and Kensington Books for the ARC – This is my honest review.
5 Stars

[Donna Repsher · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Lake House, by Lori Foster, marks my first visit to small town of Bramble, Kentucky, the second novel in her Firefly Summer series, the first being her novel, The Guest House, which I've not yet read, so the characters in this advanced reader copy of the novel from Netgalley, are all new to me, and what wonderful characters they are, and what a charming, addictive, lovely, and heartwarming second chance .novel this is. It get 5 stars from this reviewer.

We first meet Brogan Rafferty, a former, wounded Navy SEAL, filled with guilt at the loss of his teammates and who is mourning the death of his estranged half-sister, Connie, who named him as guardian in her will. He on his way to Bramble, where he's rented the titular lake house for the summer, bringing with him his 2-month-old niece, Shayna, and regretting that it took 2 months for him to recover from his injuries and be located by Connie's lawyer.

Bramble is a picture perfect small town, and waiting on the doorstep of the tiny house he's rented is Pixie Nolan, a petite blonde, and a friend of the owner, who couldn't be there to pass along the key. She's a single mother, raising her 14-month-old son, Andy, and, who we later learn comes from a broken home and a backstory not dissimilar to Brogan's. She's immediately taken with tiny Shayna, and it's clear that's the attraction between herself and Brogan is mutual, although unstated early on.

What follows is as sweet and charming a second chance novel as you're likely to find, as these two characters slowly get acquainted and slowly bond over the love, care, and protection of their two adorable babies, and where Brogan, as Pixie clearly did in the previous novel, finally finds the home and sense of belonging he's never before experienced outside of his former and deceased SEAL team brotherhood and just a warning, the road to their HEA ending is not without incident or challenges, but those challenges only bring them closer. Quite simply The Lake House is a wonderful read that I'm happy to recommend.

As previously stated, my thanks to Netgalley and Kensington for an advance reader copy of this novel. The opinions stated herein are my own.

[Carma · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Lake House, by Lori Foster, is the second novel in the Firefly Summer series. We stop again in the small Kentucky town of Bramble, where everything feels and seems picture perfect, but we all know looks can sometimes be deceiving. People struggling behind the scenes or even right out in public eye, you gravitate towards it. Or sometimes you run full steam in the other direction. Either way you handle Bramble, you will quickly find your place and way through.

Pixie Nolan is a single mom who has been trying to rebuild herself slowly into the woman she needs to become. Her growth page to page had me cheering for her, and for Andy, to finally have the family circle they need and deserve. Pixie hasn’t had an easy life but she doesn’t let it define her, she makes each moment count for her and her child.

Brogan Rafferty is a former Navy SEAL, wounded in more ways than one and angry at the world. Guilt should be his middle name at this point, guilt over losing his teammates, guilt over losing his sister, guilt finding out it took months for him to recover and months for his sister’s lawyer to find him and award custody of his niece Shayna to him.

Brogan arrives in Bramble and finds Pixie, who gives him the key to the rental he found for the summer. The two of them start a slow, sweet second chance at life friendship to romance, which doesn’t happen without a few more challenges along the way. When Pixie finds out Brogan didn’t arrive in town by accident, it threatens the very foundation they started building. The small town of Bramble, Kentucky is just what these two people need, and it provides them with a way to begin again and forge their new paths towards strength, rebirth and family.

The Lake House is the perfect summer read, it stands alone in the series but character cross over is always part of series stories. I would highly recommend you pick up book one, The Guest Cottage, meet Marlow and Cort and be swept away by Bramble once more. This story had so many wonderful quotes woven throughout but one that stood out was “At some point, you have to stop surviving and start living”. That hit deep at this stage of my own life.

[Sandy S · Rating 4 out of 5]

THE LAKE HOUSE is the second instalment in Lori Foster’s contemporary, adult FIREFLY SUMMER romance series focusing on the people of Bramble, Kentucky. This is former US Navy SEAL and single father Brogan Rafferty, and twenty-one year old, single mother and boutique manager Joanna ‘ Pixie’ Nolan’s story line. THE LAKE HOUSE can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty but I recommend reading book one THE GUEST COTTAGE for back story and cohesion. Pixie was first introduced in book one.

Told from dual omniscient third person perspectives (Pixie and Brogan) THE LAKE HOUSE follows in the wake of the arrival of Brogan Rafferty to Bramble Kentucky. After his last mission went all to h*ll, Brogan never expected to discover he was about to become a father in the aftermath of even more devastating news. Moving to Bramble, Kentucky Brogan found solace and help in the guise of his neighbor Pixie Nolan, the woman with whom Brogan will fall in love but Brogan is keeping secrets, and those secrets will change the direction of Pixie’s life.

The world building reveals the heart breaking backstories for our story line couple but none more so than for Brogan Rafferty. Believing he left his past behind, Brogan begins to settle with the help of our story line heroine, help he may lose when he reveals the truth.

The relationship between Brogan and Pixie is one of immediate attraction. Neighbors to friends to lovers in the wake of mutual circumstances, and even closer ties is about to become entangled when the past returns, threatening any chance for a happily ever after. There are no $ex scenes, everything is implied and fades to black.

The secondary and supporting characters are energetic and animated. We are introduced to attorney Erin, as well as the return of Cort Easton and Marlowe Heddings (The Guest Cottage), and several townsfolk.

THE LAKE HOUSE is a story of secrets and lies, betrayal and greed, family and friendships, acceptance and love. The character driven premise is inviting and sensitive; the romance is subtle; the characters are desperate and determined.

copy supplied for review

[Katrina · Rating 5 out of 5]

The people of Bramble continue to shine as the heart of this series, embodying the true meaning of community—steadfast, supportive, and always ready to lift one another up. Returning to this world felt like coming home, especially because I was thrilled to spend more time with Pixie and her son, Andy. They completely won me over in the previous book, and this story deepened my affection for them even more.

Pixie Nolan’s journey has been one of resilience and quiet strength. She’s overcome so much, and seeing her finally surrounded by the home, friends, and family she deserves is incredibly rewarding. Her growth since her introduction is remarkable—she’s thriving in Bramble, and it’s beautiful to witness.

Brogan, on the other hand, enters the story weighed down by loss and uncertainty. Becoming guardian to his sister’s baby girl, Shayna, gives him a new sense of purpose, but also a new set of fears. His decision to travel to Bramble—hoping to connect Shayna with more family after seeing her bond with Andy—sets the stage for a summer that changes everything. Shayna is the light that pulls Brogan forward, and their relationship is tender and deeply moving.

Neither Pixie nor Brogan planned on opening their hearts again, let alone to each other. But life in Bramble has a way of nudging people toward the connections they need most. Their chemistry is sweet, their vulnerabilities feel real, and the family drama that complicates their path adds just enough tension to keep the pages turning. The question becomes whether they’re willing to risk their hard‑won stability for the chance at something extraordinary—maybe even the ultimate fantasy.

This story is a perfect feel‑good read, full of warmth, healing, and the kind of love that grows from trust and community.

I voluntarily read an advanced copy of this book.

[Anne · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Lake House by Lori Foster — A Review
If you're looking for a romance that wraps around you like a warm blanket on a rainy afternoon, The Lake House is exactly that book.

Lori Foster takes us back to the charming little lakeside town of Bramble, Kentucky, and honestly? I never wanted to leave. This is Book 2 in the Firefly Summer series, and while it works as a standalone, I'd recommend grabbing The Guest Cottage first — you'll love seeing familiar faces woven through the story.

Our heroine, Pixie Nolan, is a single mom who arrived in Bramble broken and desperate, and has slowly rebuilt herself into someone strong, capable, and surrounded by a found family who truly loves her. Watching her growth from where she started to where she stands in this book is genuinely moving. She's the kind of woman you root for from page one.

Then Brogan Rafferty rolls into town — a retired Navy SEAL with a precious baby girl, a brooding presence, and more emotional baggage than he'd ever admit. But here's the thing about Brogan: underneath all that tough exterior is a man who is tender. The way he cares for that baby girl, and the way he sees Pixie for who she truly is, makes him completely irresistible.

Foster does something I love — she doesn't rush them. This romance unfolds slowly and naturally, letting the trust build the way real feelings do. There's warmth, there's tension, there's a little bit of mystery, and when the story picks up pace in the second half, you won't be putting this book down.

If you love small-town charm, strong women who've been through the fire, protective (but not overbearing) heroes, and adorable babies stealing every scene they're in — this one is for you. It's the kind of story that reminds you that second chances are real and that love can find you even when you've stopped looking.

Lori Foster, you've done it again. 🌟

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brogan is a former Navy Seal who is now responsible for his older sister’s daughter following his sister’s death. He has no idea how to raise a baby but he knows that Shayna is now the most important person in his life. That’s how he ends up in the lake house in Bramble. Pixie used to live in the lake house but has moved to the house next door with her young son because she needed more space. Brogan didn’t think he’d be attracted to his new neighbor and Pixie had sworn off men but life has a funny way sometimes. Can these 4 people somehow make a family together?
Brogan is likeable. He struggles with memories of the teammates he lost while still in the Navy. He loves his niece, Shayna, more than he ever thought he could love anyone. He misses his half-sister and wishes he had been able to spend more time with her before she died. He had a tough upbringing but against the odds he ended up a good man with a big heart. His one big issue in life is that his stepmother hates him because he is the product of an affair his father had with his mother. Pixie is content to raise her son, Andy, by herself. She was raised by parents who were addicts and then an aunt who loved her. She has a good job now and is able to use her art in her work so she is satisfied. The people of the town of Bramble love her and she plans to call it her home. 14-month-old, Andy, is a big part of this story. He is just learning to talk, and he adds a cuteness to the story that was really nice.
This story takes place in the small town of Bramble, Kentucky. You don’t get to become a resident unless everyone in town approves of you. This book was a nice, happy read without a lot of angst. I would recommend it to anyone looking for a book with very little tension. I will read more from this author in the future.

[Misty (Reds Romance & Mystery Reviews) · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

[Jewlsbookblog · Rating 4 out of 5]

Brogan Rafferty has been struggling with loss-friends, family, and hope. When a bundle of news arrives and kickstarts the rusty heart he thought he’d buried, Brogan finds a reason to keep moving and heads to the lake to hopefully find what he’s looking for. Except, he wasn’t planning on falling for a woman named Pixie, nor getting wrapped up in a fantasy…or could this be his new reality?… of found family.

Pixie Nolan has come so far from the broken shell we first met in The Guest Cottage. Her very large heart of gold has found a home in Bramble, Kentucky. With her son Andy, a slew of found family, and town full of friends, she is thriving and living her best life. Meeting her new summer neighbors d his adorable baby girl, Shayna, makes her realize she is missing something…but is she willing to take a risk and go for what she’s always wanted?

I was thrilled to see more of Pixie and her son Andy! Pixie stole the show in the previous book so it was a joy to see how far she’d come since then. Andy was a sweetheart and it was cute how he kept claiming Shayna and “my baby”. Brogan’s first few pages was heart melting to picture- 6’5 guy, gently bouncing a little bitty baby- cue the heart emojis! Super sweet. He was also really great with Andy and Shayna. For someone who also wanted to fly under the radar, he epically failed because, well, I don’t. think he could help himself from being him.

The Lake House was a very cute read. There is a very slow- burning romance between Pixie and Brogan and some family drama that pops up for Brogan to handle. Overall, perfect for a feel-good beach read.

I voluntarily read an advanced copy of this book from Netgalley/Kensington Publishing. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Gale · Rating 5 out of 5]

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…

[Michelle N. · Rating 5 out of 5]

We head back to the tiny town of Bramble, Kentucky for the second book in the Firefly Summer series. The Lake House picks up after The Guest Cottage but it is a stand alone novel. We met Pixie Nolan in the first book in the series but The Lake House is her story. Pixie is finally standing on her own and doing well. She is taking care of her son, working at a successful business with her best friend, Marlow, and has the support of the town of Bramble. Pixie was not prepared for her reaction to retired Navy Seal, Brogan Rafferty, when he came to rent the lake house for the summer with his infant daughter. New dad, Brogan is out of his element and learning as he goes but he is determined to give his baby girl the best life.
Pixie and Brogan find friendship and support with each other as single parents of young children. Their attraction is evident but they are both cautious about taking the next step. Pixie’s heart has been broken before and Brogan has secrets he needs to share. When Brogan’s past catches up with him, they realize how much they mean to each other.
This is a sweet love story. I enjoyed the book and it tied in quite a bit with The Guest Cottage. There was a lot of the story line tied into the children in the book so that might not be something all readers are interested in. It is expected in a story about two single parents falling in love. Lori Foster writes wonderful characters with unique personalities in all of her books. This series has introduced us to a town of fun and interesting characters that add to the charm of the story. I was thrilled to see Pixie get her own happy ending because she definitely deserves it.

[Cassie’s Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

This heartwarming small-town romance is filled with second chances, healing, friendship, and a swoon-worthy love story that left me smiling from beginning to end.
Pixie Nolan's journey is one of resilience and hope. After overcoming a difficult past and building a beautiful life for herself and her young son in Bramble, Kentucky, she's finally found stability and happiness. Watching her open her heart again was both emotional and rewarding.
Enter Brogan Rafferty—a retired Navy SEAL with a tender heart, a complicated past, and an adorable baby girl. While his rugged exterior may catch everyone's attention, it's his devotion, kindness, and protective nature that truly make him irresistible. The chemistry between Pixie and Brogan is undeniable, and their relationship develops in a way that feels genuine, sweet, and deeply emotional.
What I loved most was the strong sense of community. Bramble feels like a place you'd want to visit, filled with supportive friendships, lovable characters, and the kind of small-town charm that makes every page cozy and inviting. The story balances romance with deeper themes of trust, forgiveness, family, and healing from past wounds.
The emotional moments hit just right, and the added mystery surrounding Brogan's arrival and the accusations against him kept the story engaging beyond the romance. By the end, I was completely invested in these characters and their happily-ever-after.
📚 Rating: 5/5 Stars
A sweet, heartfelt romance filled with lovable characters, small-town charm, emotional healing, and a beautiful reminder that sometimes the best things in life arrive when you least expect them.

[Missi Martin (Stockwell) · Rating 5 out of 5]

You probably fell in love with Lor Foster's first book in the series, The Guest Cottage, because I know I did. Well get ready because the second book in the Firefly Summer series, The Lake House, is going to knock your socks off !!

Just real quick ... In The Guest Cottage we met Pixie when she was lost and severely down in life. But Marlow and Cort picked her up and helped her become a strong independent woman and great mom to her son Andy.

Now in The Lake House, Pixie and Andy are doing great !! She is working and taking care of Andy and has become a part of the town of Bramble where they take care of each other.

Then Brogan enters .... He is renting the guest cottage which is now vacant since Pixie moved into the lake house. Because Marlow and Cort are on vacation, Pixie is in charge of getting him settled. She instantly is drawn to him and who she believes to be his infant daughter, Shayna. And even though Brogan is there to heal himself and take care of Shayna, he does have a hidden agenda which includes Pixie and Andy.

Unfortunately, Brogan had hope to ease into getting to know Pixie and Andy and allowing them to get to know him and Shayna but the secret from his past has other plans so he dives right in and hopes Pixie will be there when it all comes to the surface.

Readers will be drawn into the story instantly and you will not want to stop reading. You will love the characters, the town, the friendships, relationships and even the little bit of drama. I'm pretty sure you will want to move there after reading these stories but sorry, you have to get in line behind me ....

[Voyage · Rating 5 out of 5]

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!

[Misty · Rating 5 out of 5]

We meet Pixie, she is a young single mother who is doing the best she can. She is happy and healthy for the first time in years. When she came to Bramble she had an infant, she was sick, and she needed help. What she was not expecting, was the wife of the man who fathered her child to accept her and become family. She also was not expecting to fit in and meet the man of her dreams.

Brogan has been through a lot; his mother wasn’t the best and his father left. He had a half-sister, who he didn’t find out about until she tracked him down. He was a SEAL, he was recovering from a mission that went bad, when he got the call about his niece. Now, he has one of the most important jobs, raising her. He came to Bramble at the request of his sister, and we are in for so many surprises.

I loved how so many surprises were wrapped up in this story. I felt like we were constantly peeling back layers. This story pulled me in and didn’t let me go. Brogan and Pixie’s story was sweet, and about found family, forgiveness, and finding the person that just fit in your life. These characters had difficult pasts, and I loved how they helped each other heal. Through it all, I believe that they found where they were supposed to be. I also loved Bramble’s way of accepting people into their community. These characters have big personalities, and I loved how they always jumped in to help one another. I am loving this series, and I cannot wait to go back to Bramble.

Received ARC from author for honest review.

[Yvonne Cruz · Rating 5 out of 5]

We are back in Bramble, KY where this time, Pixie Nolan and Brogan Rafferty get their story.
Pixie and her sweet little boy Andy, came to town searching for help from a woman when Pixie was at her lowest, physically and emotionally. Nowadays, that woman, Marlow has become not only her boss but also her best friend. Both Pixie and her adorable little boy Andy are thriving.
Brogan Rafferty and Shayna, an adorable two month baby girl, have arrived not only to rent for the summer the Lake House owned by Marlow and her husband Cort, but also with the intent of meeting Pixie and her son.
In no time, Andy is enchanted not only by Brogan, but especially Shayna. whom he tells everyone she’s “my baby”. The meeting was intentional on Brogan’s part, but the feelings between the four of them were unexpected and wonderful to “watch”.
Even with all the ups and downs, disappointments and revelations, this story is filled with heart. The physically and emotionally wounded warrior finds forgiveness, love , hope, peace, quiet and a second chance in life, and Pixie finds the meaning of love when she least expected.
This story is also a reminder that the experiences one has as a child, will in fact affect the adult we become.
Once again, this talented author delivers a thought provoking and wonderful story.
I was entrusted a copy of this book by Netgalley. The opinions expressed are solely my own.

[Jan Fore · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Lake House
Lori Foster
May 26, 2026

In Bramble, Kentucky, a beautiful little 1 bedroom home sits by the lake. Near by is a bigger home that Cort bought to house his mother and himself when he came to visit on-leave from the Marines. He felt better knowing she was well cared for in this small, friendly town. Since then the Lake House was home to friends and family as needed while visiting. At times he would rent the small bungalow. When he returned to Bramble permanently he began cleaning and refurbishing all of the homes he had purchased. In this story Pixie is preparing for a renter. As Cort and his wife, Marlow are out of town she will greet Brogan Rafferty upon his arrival. When he arrives she is surprised to find him with the van doors open busily changing a baby's diaper. As she discovers, he has adopted his sister’s infant, Shayna. When Connie had passed away suddenly, he left the Navy.
The Lake House will be published by Kensington Publishing Corp. on May 26,2026. Foster allowed me to read and review her latest novel via her publishing crew and NetGalley.
This sequel to the Guest Cottage follows the incredible line of characters and towns folk. Readers will find that this next installment gives more information on Cort and Marlow’s story and introduces us to Brogan and his niece, Sugar. Upon his first meeting with Pixie we knew something wonderful would happen. It is a delight to read about their romance and their children. Do enjoy!

[Sharon Grow · Rating 5 out of 5]

A second lovely visit to Bramble, Kentucky. If, you have not read the first book, The Guest Cottage, you will have no problem following this story, but the first book was just as heartwarming and lovely as this one. Joanna “Pixie” Nolan, and her young son Andy, have become permanent residents of this charming town. Bramble is a closed community that although visitors are welcome, the current home and business owners were the only full-time residents. Pixie arrived shortly after her son Andy was born. She had nowhere else to go and her now dear friend, Marlowe, welcomed her. Pixie is designing for and working at Marlowe’s store. When former SEAL Brogan Rafferty arrives in town, he has his young daughter, Shayna with him (or as Andy calls her, “my baby”). Brogan has a reason for arriving in town and his interest in Pixie and Andy. He still mourns the loss of his sister and the men that he served with, but his care and concern for Pixie, and her son, is genuine. How will she react to his original reason for coming to town? He didn’t count on falling in love with her, and Andy, but is there any chance for them as a family? When someone from his past arrives, intending to make trouble, will he and Pixie join forces to protect their promising relationship? A truly, lovely second book in this series. Will there be more visits to this amazing and loving town…I sure hope so! I received an advance review copy at no cost and without obligation for an honest review. (paytonpuppy)