Wait for Me: A Coastal Magical Realism Time Travel Romance

by Lauren Flynn

Love doesn’t end. It waits.

A time-travel romance set on the rugged coast of Nova Scotia, Canada.

- small town romance
- grumpy x sunshine
- magical realism
- star-crossed lovers
- protective hero
- 90s nostalgia
- emotional + spicy

Lucy Brooks moves to the quiet coastal town of Pleasant Cove, determined to prove that she’s capable of building a life on her own terms.

When she discovers a rundown lighthouse along the rugged Nova Scotia shoreline, something strange begins to happen. Each time she steps inside, she finds herself face to face with Dylan Hart.

The guarded lighthouse keeper is stubbornly attractive… but he doesn’t even know what Wi-Fi is. Living alone at Killick Point, he spends his days looking out onto the sea and watching the waves crash against the cliffs below. Hard as she tries to resist, Lucy finds herself drawn back to the lighthouse… and to Dylan.

But something isn’t right. Every time Lucy walks through that door, she isn’t stepping into the present; she’s stepping into 1993. And according to the town’s history, a storm is coming. One that will take Dylan’s life.

As their bond deepens into something neither of them can ignore, Lucy tries to rewrite the past. But will their love survive a ticking clock as everything around them starts to crumble?

314 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 21, 2026

Reviews

[Heather Laushway · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you Lauren for sending me an ARC copy to read.


This book has all the 🌶️🌶️🌶️ and set in beautiful NS!

Being from NS this book brought lots of nostalgia for me! The setting was perfect, Dylan’s story hit home (don’t stand on the black rocks) and the time travel was a lovely concept. I truly enjoyed reading this book. Makes me want to go home and visit a lighthouse 🌊

Also - would love the recipe for the pumpkin spice creamer. That would be a cute addition at the end of the book :)

Now, to read her other books!

[Laurana Yasinski · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5*

Thank you to Lauren Flynn for sending me an advanced copy of this book!

I first found Lauren Flynn on TikTok, and was excited to have found a local romance author! Even more so since her last book is based where I live, and features a fictional version of my favourite coffee shop! So when she posted looking for ARC readers I knew I had to sign up!

I basically went into this story blind, and really loved the story concept from the jump. A time travelling lighthouse? Sign me up! It reminded me a bit of the movie The Lake House, which I adored (reminder: watch this movie again soon!). I liked Lucy and Dylan’s first meeting a lot, and both of them being left flabbergasted and frustrated was so realistic. As soon as I read that the lighthouse keeper from 1993 had died and the one Lucy visited had been condemned for years, I was HOOKED. It was a little bit predictable at times, but let’s be real; what romance novel isn’t when you read them all the time?

I enjoyed the characters, but Lucy drove me crazy at times. I know she is supposed to have had a privileged and spoiled upbringing, but she seriously didn’t know how to make a pot of coffee? Or has never gone to a fair (looking at you, Carp Fair)? She’s never had cotton candy?? Was she spoiled or sheltered? I liked Iris a lot. I would love to read the story between her and Grant, even if it has a tragic ending.

I think this was a really great small-town romance, and loved that it featured the East Coast of Canada. I look forward to what Lauren Flynn has to offer us next!

[emilie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story was absolutely adorable! I especially loved that it was set in Canada 🇨🇦

I really loved Lucy! Even though she could be a little clumsy at her job, she was determined to keep learning and build a life of her own instead of relying on her parents. I also admired how brave she was when she decided to visit the mysterious man at the lighthouse. She wasn't afraid to go back, despite everything that could have happened.

I also really liked Dylan and his laid-back personality. He could have panicked the first time he saw Lucy, but instead, he simply found the whole situation unusual and was intrigued by her. As the story went on, he proved to be incredibly patient, calm, kind, and respectful. In short, he's pretty much the perfect book boyfriend!

I couldn't stop wondering how everything would come together, and the ending definitely didn't disappoint. It was emotional, satisfying, and brought just the right amount of intensity to the story. It was the perfect way to wrap up such a sweet and heartwarming romance!

[Kierstin Fox · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was sooo stinkin cute! It was so hard to put it down because I just needed to know how it was going to end 🥹❤️

[Vanessa Symington · Rating 5 out of 5]

In short:
This. Book. Is. So. Freaking. BEAUTIFUL... I LOVED IT SO MUCH. An absolute must read for the summer.

Seriously though, Lauren Flynn has proven once again that she just knows how to write wonderfully spicy hallmark-vibe books SO FREAKING WELL...

Wait for me is a wonderfully emotional and magical read. I went into this one completely blind and was BLOWN AWAY. If you want a book that will transport you and captivate your heart, then this is one to read.

With a story that paints a picture of a small costal town, a lighthouse that transports you to a different time, and star-crossed grumpy x sunshine lovers, I devoured every page while wrapped up in the magical realism. Lucy and Dylan have such a unique relationship. It is fun and spicy but also managed to repeatedly punch me in the heart (and I loved every moment of it).

[Amanda Rae · Rating 5 out of 5]

Not only was this my first ARC read, this was also my first time reading a book by Laren Flynn. I am so incredibly happy I had a gut feeling (😏 funny how we should listen to those more) I would like it and bought her other two books.

This stories brings you back to those summer memories on the east coast. I was hooked from the first grumpy banter session. So many moments had me trying to keep from laughing too hard (did not want to wake my baby up from a contact nap because that would mean my reading would be over till bedtime.😆). I was also left on the edge of my seat numerous times wondering if I will be left heart broken at the end. The emotional investment was real with this one and I felt for Lucy numerous times.
Not only was this my first ARC read, this was also my first time reading a book by Laren Flynn. I am so incredibly happy I had a gut feeling (😏 funny how we should listen to those more) I would like it and bought her other two books.

This stories brings you back to those summer memories on the east coast. I was hooked from the first grumpy banter session. So many moments had me trying to keep from laughing too hard (did not want to wake my baby up from a contact nap because that would mean my reading would be over till bedtime.😆). I was also left on the edge of my seat numerous times wondering if I will be left heart broken at the end. The emotional investment was real with this one and I felt for Lucy numerous times.

[aprilkslittlelibrary · Rating 4 out of 5]

*4.5 ✨ rounded down to a 4

What a magical and feel-good story! This one had me smiling and laughing from page one, and I quickly became invested in Lucy and Dylan’s story. 🌊⏳☕️💖🎡

Set in a beautiful small town in Nova Scotia, Canada, we meet our FMC, Lucy, who escapes to the east coast to prove to herself and her parents that she can survive and thrive on her own and leave her lavish lifestyle behind. From coffee screwups to car issues to sad-girl dinners, Lucy could use a dose of magic. Little does she know, it might just be on the other side of a lighthouse’s red door…

I absolutely adored Lucy and Dylan’s relationship, and their ability to sit in comfortable silence together was so sweet. They were each other’s safe haven and accepted and loved each other exactly as they were. This story also features really great side characters who are integral to the plot, including Lucy’s best friend Priya and a mysterious older lady, Iris, who may have more in common with Lucy than she thinks.

Quintessentially Canadian, with some Taylor Swift mentions sprinkled in for good measure, I had a great time reading this one. If you’re looking for your next favourite time-travel read with a grumpy x sunshine duo and 90s nostalgic vibes, I highly recommend checking this one out!

Thank you Lauren Flynn for the digital ARC via Book Funnel! 🫶🏻

[Maria (bookedwithkoulou) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Looking for romance perfection? Then read Wait for Me by Lauren Flynn! You will swoon, cheer and be delighted by this spicy yet magical story. This story hooks you from the start and refuses to let go.

Thank you Lauren Flynn for sharing this ARC. I feel so lucky to have gotten an advanced copy! I loved everything about this story and I was a little sad when it ended cause I wanted a little bit more time with Lucy and Dylan! 

Book releases on July 21, 2026.

Lucy is done with her privileged life and is determined to build something of her own. She trades Ontario for a quiet Nova Scotia coastal town, where she discovers a lighthouse with a touch of magic and Dylan, the grumpy but sexy lighthouse keeper who lives there. From the time she meets him their chemistry is electric. You’ll be cheering for them through every spark, twist, and moment of magic. But can their relationship survive the test of time?

This book is romance perfection. Flynn creates a world that feels both enchantingly whimsical and deeply real. You’ll laugh, swoon, worry, and fall completely in love with these characters.

Read this book if you like

💖 Time travel, magic and whimsy

💖 Grumpy MMC 

💖 Sunshine FMC

💖 Canadian setting

💖 Spicy 🔥🔥 

💖 90s nostalgia

[Bianka Bastien · Rating 5 out of 5]

🌊 Beautiful Nova Scotia setting
⏳ Time-travel/magical realism
💙 Star-crossed lovers
🌶️ Spicy romance
😭 Emotional ending that will have you reaching for tissues

I don’t even know where to start with this book. From the very first chapters, I was completely pulled into Lucy and Dylan’s story. The magical realism was woven into the romance so naturally that I found myself forgetting they weren’t living in the same timeline.

The coastal setting was absolutely stunning and felt like a character of its own. Lauren Flynn has such a way of making you feel like you’re right there, watching the waves and experiencing every emotion alongside the characters.

Lucy and Dylan completely stole my heart. Their connection was beautiful, heartbreaking, and full of hope. The chemistry between them was incredible, and the emotional moments hit just as hard as the romantic ones.

This book made me smile, stressed me out, and left me emotional by the end. If you love romance with a touch of magic, unforgettable characters, and a story that stays with you long after you finish, I highly recommend picking this one up.

[Elizabeth R · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lucy starts a new life in a small town in the maritimes, living with her best friend and working as a barista. When her curiosity leads her to explore an abandoned lighthouse, the handsome but grumpy guy she meets steals her heart. The only problem? He’s in 1993.

Lucy is giving Rachel Green from FRIENDS. She’s a trust fund baby who leaves her posh life to try to prove she can be independent. With her best friend vouching for her to secure a job at the coffee shop, Lucy ekes out a living but constantly disappoints her boss. She’s starting life over with no idea what she’s doing and feeling like a failure.

Dylan is a grumpy lighthouse worker with a haunted past. He’s giving Luke from Gilmore Girls in the best way. The way he gradually softens towards Lucy made me squeal and kick my feet.

The east coast vibes in this story are totally on point. I felt like I was there, smelling brine in the wind and cozying up with a coffee while seagulls yelp in the background. And this story made me hungry? Be prepared to start craving fish tacos.

If you love grumpy/sunshine with 90s nostalgia, nautical vibes and a splash of time travel then you need to read this immediately.

[Any · Rating 4 out of 5]

Honestly, I forgot the first time that Lucy and Dylan weren’t living on the same timeline before she mentioned it. It’s the first book I read that is happening in Nova Scotia. I was so young when I went there that I didn’t have many memories, but with the description in the novel, it was easy to imagine it.

Hard to choose between the two protagonists, however I would say that Lucy deserves first place. Not only because she left everything, she knew she needed to get a life where she would live on her own, but she went through a complicated relationship with Dylan. I can’t tell you much, but don't forget your tissues if you want to read the book.

As for Dylan, he has a heart of gold. I think I haven’t been touched by a character since a long time. Please note that there are a lot of spicy scenes between him and Lucy. I liked it in general. I was also into tears in the end.

My favorite is still For the Story, but this one was a roller coaster, and I enjoyed most of it.

[Ghalz · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to Lauren Flynn for giving me access to this ARC 🩷

Rating : ⭐️⭐️⭐️,75/5 (rounded up to 4)

I genuinely don't know what to say. This was my first magical realism book and it was a special experience. At first, I felt like it isn't what I'd like to read but fast forward, I got more into it and I got submerged into the world.

The book is set in Nova Scotia, Canada. The story of Dylan and Lucy was actually so special and also so complicated in a way where they could have lost each other so easily 🥹❤️‍🩹 not because they didn't love each other enough but because of what happens in the past. I bawled my eyes out like a baby while reading the last 20% 😭 The screen got blurry and I haven't cried over a book in this way since I started Keeping 13 🥲 I almost crashed out thinking they weren't having a HEA.

I'm so happy I discovered Lauren Flynn, especially since she's a local author from where I am which makes me so excited at the idea of being to meet her one day 💗

[Gabrielle · Rating 5 out of 5]

​I am completely speechless. Wait for Me is a breathtakingly beautiful novel. This is the third book I’ve read by this author, and she is an unbelievable talent. 🤍

​Set against the stunning backdrop of a lighthouse on the East Coast of Canada, this book captures the magic of the coast perfectly. It features a nostalgic '90s feel, a seamless time-travel element, and a deeply moving love story that kept me completely captivated.

​The pacing at the end was spectacular; I was on the edge of my seat for the entire last hour of reading! It wrapped up with the most beautiful happy ending that left me with a full heart.

​If you want a story with nostalgia, magic, and a romance that transcends time, do yourself a favor and pick up Wait for Me. It is an unforgettable read!

​Thank you to the author for providing an Advanced Reader Copy 🤍

[Melissa T · Rating 5 out of 5]

Okay, I will say this right now, Lauren Flynn has become one of my absolutely FAVOURITE authors.
This is my third book by her and each one has been absolutely amazing, cute, fun and heartwarming. Her writing style is fantastic!

This story has some magic to it, which I thought brought such a fun side to this story. The characters are fantastic and loveable. The setting is perfect (Canadian East Coast - what's not to love?!). The story was easy to follow and definitely made my heart melt. I found myself hooked from the first chapter and to be honest? I was kind of sad when it ended. Yes, the story wraps up nicely but I wanted their story to continue forever.

I cannot wait to buy this book when it comes out. I was lucky enough to receive this ARC for free thanks to Lauren and this was my honest review - when it comes out, definitely check it out!!!

[Abigayle · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC Review
When I saw the cover for this book I knew I had to read it and it did not disappoint. There were so many things I loved about this book. The star crossed lovers, Canadian setting, and the genuine love that you can tell was put in the pages. You could feel the characters emotions while you were reading. I wanted to be there to experience their dates and try their amazing coffee. You could also feel their pain and fear. I often found myself rooting for the characters and celebrating their wins with them. The characters stayed true to themselves while still growing. I felt the spicey scenes also flowed well with the plot and were genuine moments for Lucy and Dylan. I really enjoyed this story and the continuing theme of how patient and willing to wait true love it.

[Terri McCarrell · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wait For Me was a 3.75 stars for me. I found it a fun and quick read. If you love a cozy paranormal with time travel, this will be another one you'll enjoy!

The beginning of the book was a little hard for me to get into, as the FMC just seemed to immature for my taste. I'm glad I pushed through that though, because the book ended up being an enjoyable read.

This is definitely an insta love trope. I enjoyed the side characters, but the story itself is pretty surface level. If you expect a quick, light read, this should suit you just fine! A little time travel (not too far back) is always a good time.

[Trudy G · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this book as an arc read from the author and thoroughly enjoyed it! Imagine my surprise when I realized it was based in a small town in NS, which is where I’m from.

It has romance, spice (just the right amount), angst and heartache- had me in all the feels! Dylan and Lucy’s story was grumpy / sunshine and revolved around a lighthouse that included time travel, which I usually don’t care for - but this story had me hooked and needing to know what was going to happen!

Highly recommend as a nice light, refreshing summer romance read - great choice for the beach, pool or whatever your happy reading place is.

[Ashleigh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lauren heard us beg: “Give us Ashley Poston magical realism, but make it Canadian East coast, with a handsome lighthouse keeper, and a FMC chasing a new life to find herself. “
And she knocked it out of the park!

The Canadian mannerisms made the story extra cozy, and had me envisioning myself curled up infront of the wood stove of the lighthouse.
The romance was well paced, adorable, and steamy in all the right places.

I enjoyed every minute of this amazing story and couldn’t put it down racing to find out how their story would end.
I can’t wait to dive into Lauren’s other books!

*Warning, may cause cravings for pumpkin spice lattes.*

[Valerie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a fun dip into magical realism. Bringing together some of my favourite things: Canada’s East Coast, Taylor Swift and the 90s!

Lauren’s writing is so descriptive you can see, smell and taste based on her storytelling. I can smell Dylan’s soap and the salt air 😉.

While I’m a spicy fan, I think we could have skipped a couple of the scenes, but they aren’t cringey like some other books out there.

I love the small town feel of Lauren’s books and this should absolutely be on your late Summer/Fall TBR.

[Delaney C · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lauren Flynn does it again! I don’t know how but everything she writes is ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ for me! Wait For Me takes place on the coast of Nova Scotia where Lucy finds out the Lighthouse might have some magic to it. That Lighthouse comes with Dylan the grumpy lighthouse keeper. They aren’t from the same year or even the same decade! But maybe with a little magic and a whole lot of love they just might be able to make things work!

[Brandi Colley · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an ARC of this book & was very intrigued with the storyline. It is very different from any other romance I have read. While I wasn't initially sure what to think in the beginning of the book, I quickly became invested in Lucy & Dylan's story and the outcome. While I do wish there was more of a slow burn to their relationship, I loved the time travel aspect and how their love story enfolded! Can't wait to read more from this author.

[Rachelle Fisher]

I am lost for words. Wait For Me had me in tears, laughing, engaged, and in love with the characters. I love everything about this book. The pace is perfect. The world-building made me feel as if I were at the lighthouse. Dylan and Lucy are one of my new favourite book couples. You fall in love with them at the beginning. I remember reading and waiting for them to finally notice what year they were in and who the man in the lighthouse was. This book had me hooked from first few sentences.

[Rachelle Wilson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Author Lauren Flynn has done it again! What an amazing book! I read the whole thing in one day it was so good I could not put it down! The mystery of why Lucy keeps going to the light house and the mysteries shocks/buzzing she gets in her fingers when she reaches for the door makes you want to know what the heck is happening from the beginning :) July 21st I suggest you get your hands on a copy of this book read it and share it with your friends!

[Katie Lacroix · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC review: Another fantastic book by Lauren Flynn!

The entire story was so fun to follow along - I wish I could read it for the first time all over again! I was on the edge of my seat most of this book, excited to see what would happen next! The way Lauren Flynn told this love story was so captivating. I would have loved to try that pumpkin spice creamer recipe. I’m looking forward till Lauren’s next book release🩷

[Chelsea Greer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've read every book by Lauren and by far this Story is my favorite ❤️
She knows how to hit you in the feels with her writing and will make you fall in love with every character she's ever written everytime!

Thank you so much for giving me the chance with the ARC!

I can't wait to see what's next!

[Sarah Barry · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved this small town costal romance. The time travelling was an interesting concept and I absolutely fell in love with Dylan and Lucy. I couldn’t put the book down! Between the time travelling and them trying to save Dylan from his disastrous end I was on pins and needles. Need to try the pumpkin spice creamer recipe now. This book gave all the feels.

[BorderBrewBooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

​A wave of so many different emotions—from hopeful, sad, and happy, to steamy, dreadful, and full of anticipation! Lauren has you hanging on her every word. It's a "one-sitting" kind of book. I wasn't sure at first, but I'm very happy I continued reading. Wait for Me is a fantastic summer read to enjoy out on the deck, on the boat, or just curled up on the couch.

[Lauren Flynn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you everyone for taking a chance on my coastal magical realism romance set in the beautiful Nova Scotia, Canada! <3

[Tracy Doherty · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lucy and Dylan's story had me from page one. Set in nova Scotia in a light house. Need i say more. I was rooting for them to make it to 2025.

[☆Laura☆ · Rating 3 out of 5]

Pensé que terminaría mal después de la escena de la demolición.