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Lighthouse Beach
From New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Shelley Noble comes a heartrending and uplifting novel about friendship, love, and what we’re willing to sacrifice for our dreams.
What was supposed to be an idyllic wedding leads to an unexpected journey of self-discovery…
When Lillo Gray pulls up to Kennebunkport’s most exclusive hotel wearing a borrowed dress and driving a borrowed VW van, she knows she’s made a big mistake. She’s not even sure why Jessica Parker invited her to her posh wedding. They haven’t seen each other since they were unhappy fourteen-year-old girls at fat camp. And now they’re from two completely different worlds. There’s no way Lillo fits in the rarefied circles Jessica travels in.
Jess isn’t sure she’s ready to go through with this wedding, but she’s been too busy making everyone else happy to think about what she wants. But when she and her two closest friends, Allie and Diana, along with Lillo, discover her fiancé with his pants down in the hotel parking lot, she’s humiliated…and slightly relieved. In a rush to escape her crumbling life, Jess, Allie, and Diana pile into Lillo’s beat-up old van and head up the coast to Lighthouse Island. Once there, she hopes to figure out the next chapter in her life.
Nursing broken hearts and broken dreams, four lost women embark on a journey to find their way back into happiness with new love, friendship, and the healing power of Lighthouse Beach.
What was supposed to be an idyllic wedding leads to an unexpected journey of self-discovery…
When Lillo Gray pulls up to Kennebunkport’s most exclusive hotel wearing a borrowed dress and driving a borrowed VW van, she knows she’s made a big mistake. She’s not even sure why Jessica Parker invited her to her posh wedding. They haven’t seen each other since they were unhappy fourteen-year-old girls at fat camp. And now they’re from two completely different worlds. There’s no way Lillo fits in the rarefied circles Jessica travels in.
Jess isn’t sure she’s ready to go through with this wedding, but she’s been too busy making everyone else happy to think about what she wants. But when she and her two closest friends, Allie and Diana, along with Lillo, discover her fiancé with his pants down in the hotel parking lot, she’s humiliated…and slightly relieved. In a rush to escape her crumbling life, Jess, Allie, and Diana pile into Lillo’s beat-up old van and head up the coast to Lighthouse Island. Once there, she hopes to figure out the next chapter in her life.
Nursing broken hearts and broken dreams, four lost women embark on a journey to find their way back into happiness with new love, friendship, and the healing power of Lighthouse Beach.
400 pages, ebook
First published May 29, 2018
687 people are currently reading
5694 people want to read
About the author
Shelley Noble
31 books1,225 followersShelley Noble is a multi published fiction author whose books have been translated into seven languages. She writes women’s fiction as Shelley Noble and is also the author of several amateur sleuth mystery series, written as Shelley Freydont.
A former professional dancer and choreographer, she most recently worked on the films, Mona Lisa Smile and The Game Plan. She also consults on various dance and theatre projects, most recently the world premiere of a full length Tom Sawyer ballet commissioned by Kansas City Ballet.
Shelley is a member of Sisters-in-Crime, Mystery Writers of America, Romance Writers of America, and Liberty States Fiction Writers.
She lives near the New Jersey shore. In her spare time she loves to discover new beaches and indulge her passion for lighthouses and boardwalks with vintage carousels.
A former professional dancer and choreographer, she most recently worked on the films, Mona Lisa Smile and The Game Plan. She also consults on various dance and theatre projects, most recently the world premiere of a full length Tom Sawyer ballet commissioned by Kansas City Ballet.
Shelley is a member of Sisters-in-Crime, Mystery Writers of America, Romance Writers of America, and Liberty States Fiction Writers.
She lives near the New Jersey shore. In her spare time she loves to discover new beaches and indulge her passion for lighthouses and boardwalks with vintage carousels.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 207 reviews
June 4, 2018
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review as part of a TLC Book Tour.
This was a great beach read about 4 women who flee from a wedding and head to Lighthouse Beach. There’s a little bit of everything: romance, friendship, self-discovery, and secret pasts.
The best part of the book was the setting of Lighthouse Beach and the role that it played in their lives. Lighthouse beach felt like a character and that gave the book that special something. You could feel the power of Lighthouse Beach through the pages.
I liked the 4 main characters and their story arcs, however, I definitely felt that Allie got the short end of the stick. Her character didn’t get the same level of attention that the other 3 received. Especially in the first half of the book, Allie was there but her presence wasn’t really known. More could have been done with her. At times her character felt like an afterthought.
One of the characters in this book is a biker doctor (appropriately nicknamed “Doc Harley”) which I found to be such an interesting combination. I’ve never seen that in a book before and I really liked that. You see bikers in books, but never one who is also a respected doctor.
The ending leaves you wanting a bit more, but I was glad it was left more open-ended. It felt natural since the book took place over a span of just 1 week. I would love to see a sequel and what happened afterwards. Perhaps a return to Lighthouse Beach (*hint hint* to the author) could happen.
Overall, if you’re looking to start off your summer with a beach read, then look no further than Lighthouse Beach.
This was a great beach read about 4 women who flee from a wedding and head to Lighthouse Beach. There’s a little bit of everything: romance, friendship, self-discovery, and secret pasts.
The best part of the book was the setting of Lighthouse Beach and the role that it played in their lives. Lighthouse beach felt like a character and that gave the book that special something. You could feel the power of Lighthouse Beach through the pages.
I liked the 4 main characters and their story arcs, however, I definitely felt that Allie got the short end of the stick. Her character didn’t get the same level of attention that the other 3 received. Especially in the first half of the book, Allie was there but her presence wasn’t really known. More could have been done with her. At times her character felt like an afterthought.
One of the characters in this book is a biker doctor (appropriately nicknamed “Doc Harley”) which I found to be such an interesting combination. I’ve never seen that in a book before and I really liked that. You see bikers in books, but never one who is also a respected doctor.
The ending leaves you wanting a bit more, but I was glad it was left more open-ended. It felt natural since the book took place over a span of just 1 week. I would love to see a sequel and what happened afterwards. Perhaps a return to Lighthouse Beach (*hint hint* to the author) could happen.
Overall, if you’re looking to start off your summer with a beach read, then look no further than Lighthouse Beach.
May 31, 2018
The Lighthouse Beach reunites Lillo Gray and her friend Jessica Parker after years apart. Jess has invited Lillo to her wedding. Lillo and Jess met when they were teenagers. Jess was sent to fat camp by her horrible parents despite not being fat. Now, the same parents are forcing her to marry a not-so-nice guy. Between Lillo and Jessica's two college friends, Diana and Allie, they'll steal the bride away and drive towards Lillo's town, Lighthouse Island.
Once they get there, we start learning about these four women and who they are. Diana, the CEO of her own company, twice divorced and a love for horses and maybe the Vet in town. Allie, and the loss she has suffered. Can she love again? Then, there is Jess, the bride-to-be who didn't know how to stop her father from offering her for a marriage she had no desire to be part of. Last, there's Lillo who's hiding the events that made her stop practicing the job she grew up wanting more than anything else.
There were parts of the Lighthouse Beach that were too predictable for my taste but others kept my attention. I love the feel of a small town. Everyone knows everyone and there's no way to keep them out of your life but when push comes to shove, a community comes together to help when it's most needed.
It took me a while to warm up to Lillo. She was wallowing in so much guilt. She was terrified of having the other women learn anything about her. Half of the time, she thought about kicking them out of her home. She also didn't communicate well with the people who cared about her and her future.
I love how Jess was able to stand up for herself when she needed too. In part, she was able to do it because she had the unconditional help from her friends.
I wish Allie's storyline had more to it. I felt her predicament was glossed over. I wanted to see more of her and Nando together.
I will say that in my opinion, the Lighthouse Beach was missing more in the romance department. It was also missing an epiloge. I would've love to see what the future held for these four women.
Cliffhanger: No
3/5 Fangs
A complimentary copy was provided by Harper Collins in exchange for an honest review.
MrsLeif's Two Fangs About It | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram
September 27, 2023
Three and a half stars
Lillo Gray wonders why after years of silence, having last see each other as unhappy fifteen year olds at fat camp, Jess Parker has invited Lillo to her posh wedding. With her borrowed dress and borrowed battered VW van, Lillo has nothing in common with the rich, privileged people Jess knows. Jess already has her doubts about the marriage her parents are urging her to make. But she seems to be powerless to stand up to them. Until she comes across her intended in the hotel parking lot having sex with another woman. Humiliated, Jess wants nothing more than to flee. Afraid Jess will back down as she always does and still go ahead with the wedding, Lillo and Jess’s close friends Allie and Diana escape with the runaway bride in the borrowed VW and head towards Lighthouse Beach. And so four women, each with their own issues, embark on a journey of self discovery to find what really matters.
This is the second book I have read recently where a friend from the past steps in to rescue their friend from controlling, manipulative parents. As the story progresses secrets and past hurts emerge and new relationships are formed, some decidedly unexpected.
All four women are interesting as are Ian, the vet and Ned Hartley, the biker doctor. Mac, a local and protector of the lighthouse is another interesting character. I liked the way the community banded together to help each other and the setting was great. The setting is great. For whatever reason this Aussie loves books about Maine. An enjoyable read.
Lillo Gray wonders why after years of silence, having last see each other as unhappy fifteen year olds at fat camp, Jess Parker has invited Lillo to her posh wedding. With her borrowed dress and borrowed battered VW van, Lillo has nothing in common with the rich, privileged people Jess knows. Jess already has her doubts about the marriage her parents are urging her to make. But she seems to be powerless to stand up to them. Until she comes across her intended in the hotel parking lot having sex with another woman. Humiliated, Jess wants nothing more than to flee. Afraid Jess will back down as she always does and still go ahead with the wedding, Lillo and Jess’s close friends Allie and Diana escape with the runaway bride in the borrowed VW and head towards Lighthouse Beach. And so four women, each with their own issues, embark on a journey of self discovery to find what really matters.
This is the second book I have read recently where a friend from the past steps in to rescue their friend from controlling, manipulative parents. As the story progresses secrets and past hurts emerge and new relationships are formed, some decidedly unexpected.
All four women are interesting as are Ian, the vet and Ned Hartley, the biker doctor. Mac, a local and protector of the lighthouse is another interesting character. I liked the way the community banded together to help each other and the setting was great. The setting is great. For whatever reason this Aussie loves books about Maine. An enjoyable read.
June 23, 2018
Lillo Gray never thought that instead of attending the wedding of an old friend, she is instead driving the bride, and two of the bride's friends home to Lighthouse Beach, in a borrowed VW van. Then again, discovering the husband-to-be in a delicate situation is a very good reason for anyone getting cold feet. And, Jessica Parker, the runaway bride, wasn't even sure about the marriage in the first place... although her parents think that she is overreacting and she should still marry the bastard. So, off in the night they go, not telling anyone, especially not Jessica's parents...
READ THE REST OF THE REVIEW OVER AT FRESH FICTION!
READ THE REST OF THE REVIEW OVER AT FRESH FICTION!
July 1, 2020
Great beach/vacation read. I would love to visit Maine someday if I could. Felt a bit long and that’s why I gave it 3 stars.
March 23, 2019
Dollycas’s Thoughts
Lillo Gray arrives at the fancy wedding of a childhood friend Jess in a borrowed old VW van and a dress she borrowed from another friend. She knows she shouldn’t have come, she is never going to fit in with these people. She is totally surprised when the bride welcomes her with open arms and drags her off to meet 2 more friends avoiding the festivities planned by her parents.
When they meet Allie and Diana for a few drinks Lillo learns that Jess really doesn’t want to get married and that she is just doing it to make her parents happy. When the group returns to the hotel they see the groom in the parking lot in a very comprising position. Broken and humiliated Jess has had enough. The girls quickly hatch a plan to save their friend. A girl’s road trip! The pack a few things and climb into the VW and take off up the coast. Back to the place where Lillo and Jess met, somewhere they hope no one will find them, Lighthouse Beach.
Books like this one give me a glorious “Calgon take me away” escape.
This story is about four women and Lighthouse Beach and those that inhabit or visit it. They thought taking Jess there she would rediscover the strong woman she was in college but it did so much more. The discovered something about themselves and their visit changed the lives of others too.
Lighthouse Beach is a small coastal town that has basically been forgotten since the lighthouse was retired. The former tourist town is just hanging on. People have to travel to larger towns and work two or three jobs just to survive. This leaves some children mostly unsupervised and free to cause trouble. The residents try to help each other out but the needed resources just aren’t available. There is a visiting group of doctor’s and handyman that comes to town periodically. This group becomes part of the fabric of Lighthouse Beach. A fabric that stretches to welcome Allie and Diana and welcome back Jess almost effortlessly.
This story takes place over the course of a week. It seems longer because so much happens. The pacing is perfect. It is a very hard book to put down. The characters lives unfold comfortably allowing the readers to become completely engaged and feel for them. While there is a romantic undertone this story is so much more. Friendship, support, understanding, bring these characters together. Little by little secrets are revealed, wounds are opened and soothed. A true community spirit can be felt.
Ms. Noble has written a story I won’t soon forget. She hasn’t tied things up all nicely with a bow at the end either leaving the reader to wonder a bit about the future at Lighthouse Beach and the people we met there. A breath of fresh air, energizing, hopeful story that I really and truly enjoyed. It was most certainly a Perfect Escape!
Lillo Gray arrives at the fancy wedding of a childhood friend Jess in a borrowed old VW van and a dress she borrowed from another friend. She knows she shouldn’t have come, she is never going to fit in with these people. She is totally surprised when the bride welcomes her with open arms and drags her off to meet 2 more friends avoiding the festivities planned by her parents.
When they meet Allie and Diana for a few drinks Lillo learns that Jess really doesn’t want to get married and that she is just doing it to make her parents happy. When the group returns to the hotel they see the groom in the parking lot in a very comprising position. Broken and humiliated Jess has had enough. The girls quickly hatch a plan to save their friend. A girl’s road trip! The pack a few things and climb into the VW and take off up the coast. Back to the place where Lillo and Jess met, somewhere they hope no one will find them, Lighthouse Beach.
Books like this one give me a glorious “Calgon take me away” escape.
This story is about four women and Lighthouse Beach and those that inhabit or visit it. They thought taking Jess there she would rediscover the strong woman she was in college but it did so much more. The discovered something about themselves and their visit changed the lives of others too.
Lighthouse Beach is a small coastal town that has basically been forgotten since the lighthouse was retired. The former tourist town is just hanging on. People have to travel to larger towns and work two or three jobs just to survive. This leaves some children mostly unsupervised and free to cause trouble. The residents try to help each other out but the needed resources just aren’t available. There is a visiting group of doctor’s and handyman that comes to town periodically. This group becomes part of the fabric of Lighthouse Beach. A fabric that stretches to welcome Allie and Diana and welcome back Jess almost effortlessly.
This story takes place over the course of a week. It seems longer because so much happens. The pacing is perfect. It is a very hard book to put down. The characters lives unfold comfortably allowing the readers to become completely engaged and feel for them. While there is a romantic undertone this story is so much more. Friendship, support, understanding, bring these characters together. Little by little secrets are revealed, wounds are opened and soothed. A true community spirit can be felt.
Ms. Noble has written a story I won’t soon forget. She hasn’t tied things up all nicely with a bow at the end either leaving the reader to wonder a bit about the future at Lighthouse Beach and the people we met there. A breath of fresh air, energizing, hopeful story that I really and truly enjoyed. It was most certainly a Perfect Escape!
June 8, 2018
For this review and others visit Carlene Inspired.
We've all heard of the runaway bride, but this time she's accompanied by her three best friends and the loneliness they all find they have in common. Lillo, Jess, Diana and Allie take off on an impromptu road trip to Lighthouse Beach, where fond memories still live for Jess, but haunt Lillo as she tries to escape her own losses. What's meant to be a beach escape to help Jess turns into an escape that changes each of the women.
Lighthouse Beach, by Shelley Noble, features a large cast of main characters and a handful of secondary, each taking turns with the novel focusing on their personal battles. Lillo, Jess, Diana, and Allie weren't all friends in the start, but by the end they've trusted one another with matters of the heart and learned to rely on others to carry them through high tide times. Then there's Mac, the wise lighthouse keeper, and the biker doctors, as handsome, smart, and rugged as they sound. The women are unique, their friendship formed as youth and still strong in the present despite their living distances apart and in careers as opposite as they come. Lighthouse Beach, with a role as large as a character, makes the women find a way to embrace themselves and each other in a way that they weren't able to when apart. Together, with sand between their toes and the Maine rain drizzling down, they discover a way to embrace what they truly want and find ways to let go of the past they've each held onto. Of course, the small town charm and the docs help things along.
Lighthouse Beach is, exactly as described, a women's lit beach read. It's lengthy and complex with an overarching storyline of friendship. There's a bit of romance, humor, heartache, and self growth, everything a chick lit lover seeks out in their reads. As the four women find their way we are left with the power of Lighthouse Beach, aware that the imprint it left on Jess and Lillo as youth is the same left on them today. Shelley Noble delivers a heartfelt story that makes for a perfect beach read with Lighthouse Beach.
ARC provided.
We've all heard of the runaway bride, but this time she's accompanied by her three best friends and the loneliness they all find they have in common. Lillo, Jess, Diana and Allie take off on an impromptu road trip to Lighthouse Beach, where fond memories still live for Jess, but haunt Lillo as she tries to escape her own losses. What's meant to be a beach escape to help Jess turns into an escape that changes each of the women.
Lighthouse Beach, by Shelley Noble, features a large cast of main characters and a handful of secondary, each taking turns with the novel focusing on their personal battles. Lillo, Jess, Diana, and Allie weren't all friends in the start, but by the end they've trusted one another with matters of the heart and learned to rely on others to carry them through high tide times. Then there's Mac, the wise lighthouse keeper, and the biker doctors, as handsome, smart, and rugged as they sound. The women are unique, their friendship formed as youth and still strong in the present despite their living distances apart and in careers as opposite as they come. Lighthouse Beach, with a role as large as a character, makes the women find a way to embrace themselves and each other in a way that they weren't able to when apart. Together, with sand between their toes and the Maine rain drizzling down, they discover a way to embrace what they truly want and find ways to let go of the past they've each held onto. Of course, the small town charm and the docs help things along.
Lighthouse Beach is, exactly as described, a women's lit beach read. It's lengthy and complex with an overarching storyline of friendship. There's a bit of romance, humor, heartache, and self growth, everything a chick lit lover seeks out in their reads. As the four women find their way we are left with the power of Lighthouse Beach, aware that the imprint it left on Jess and Lillo as youth is the same left on them today. Shelley Noble delivers a heartfelt story that makes for a perfect beach read with Lighthouse Beach.
ARC provided.
July 11, 2018
Four women trying to reclaim their lives... Lilli, Jess, Diana and Allie each have major hurdles to leap. This book makes them and the folks of Lighthouse Beach come to life. I hope there is a sequel. I want to know what happens next.
May 27, 2018
Thanks to TLC Book Tours and the publisher for this free review copy!
A canceled wedding + an impromptu road trip + a seaside town + a group of 4 women just trying to figure life out ~ this is a recipe for a light, enjoyable read for fans of women's fiction and romance stories. The setting is delightful and I loved the descriptions of the town and the various characters who live there.
I gave this a 3 star rating simply because of the wording used to describe various things regarding eating disorders and differently-abled individuals ~ they were not glaring, but these are areas I'm highly sensitive to, so my rating reflects that.
A canceled wedding + an impromptu road trip + a seaside town + a group of 4 women just trying to figure life out ~ this is a recipe for a light, enjoyable read for fans of women's fiction and romance stories. The setting is delightful and I loved the descriptions of the town and the various characters who live there.
I gave this a 3 star rating simply because of the wording used to describe various things regarding eating disorders and differently-abled individuals ~ they were not glaring, but these are areas I'm highly sensitive to, so my rating reflects that.
January 12, 2019
I've been wanting to read this book since it came out! In 2018 I started reading a bit more Women's Fiction, which has been a genre I neglect, and found I really enjoyed the stories. I love seeing a character's journey and growth and how they often center around friendships or family.LIGHTHOUSE BEACH is all about friendships. It's told in multiple POV but I would there's one main protagonist of this story which is Lillo Gray. Her family used to run a "fat camp" when she was a kid and she made a strong friendship and connection with one of the rich attendees, Jessica Parker. They haven't spoken for many years until she gets an invite to Jessica's wedding and decides to attend. But things quickly explode when right before the wedding, Lillo, Jessica and Jessica's college friends Diana and Allie find the groom cheating on Jessica. So they all run away and decide to hide out in Lillo's small town.
I think each of these women have their own issues to work through and this small town has a way of helping them see how to leave their past behind. I really enjoyed seeing that and how the bonds of friendship helped each of the women deal with those issues and have the strength to face them head on.
There's a touch of romance in this book as well. I wanted a little more of a resolution on that front in this book because I felt as some was left hanging in the end to be continued. So the ending left me just a tad dissatisfied on that front.
Overall, I really enjoyed this story. It's definitely a feel good book and I'll be on the look out for more from this author.
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May 30, 2018
Friendship and fun. Lighthouse Beach is easy to put down and pick up again with a sweetness that makes this a perfect book for summer.
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September 10, 2018
This just went in too many directions. There were too many weird random unfinished stories, and it didn't feel realistic at ALL. Will likely not give this author another try.
July 22, 2018
When Jess asks Lillo to come to her wedding Lillo is surprised, because they haven’t spoken in years. The wedding is at a fancy hotel with many guests, but the bride doesn’t seem to be happy. After a terrible incident Lillo and Jess’s friends Allie and Diana decide it’s time to get out of there and save Jess from a future with a man who doesn’t love her and will never make her happy. They take Lillo’s borrowed bartered car and drive to Lighthouse Island. Jess and her friends want to stay with Lillo, who isn’t used to company anymore. Can Lillo handle having guests for a few days and will she have anything in common with three rich women who are used to a lot more luxury than she can offer them?
While Lillo tries to be a good host a lot of hurt from the past comes to the surface. Jess’s parents have always been demanding and cold and it’s time for her to choose her own future, but will she be able to? Allie hasn’t been happy in a long time, can she find back a part of herself that she thought she’d lost forever on Lighthouse Beach? Diana is a free spirit, she knows what she wants and who she wants to spend her time with. What will happen when she meets a complex and wounded man who makes her heart beat faster? Lillo is traumatized, but isn’t inclined to share her problems with anyone, will her new best friends be able to make a difference in her life? Can Lighthouse Beach heal the four friends and give them a better perspective on what their futures should look like?
Lighthouse Beach is a beautiful story about friendship, hopes, dreams and making the right choices. Lillo is a sweet and generous woman. She’s broken-hearted, but she’s there for Jess when she needs her. I loved that she steps out of her comfort zone over and over again to be there for her friend. Jess’s confidence needs a boost, she has to learn to stand up for herself and getting her out of the life she’s used to is the only way to save her. She needs three strong friends to change her views and it was interesting to see how she learns to believe in herself. Diana has plenty of confidence and her lively spirit makes everyone come out of their shell, I loved her fierceness and outspokenness. She’s decisive, which Allie could also use, because of the difficult situation she’s in. Together they are stronger than apart and that is the biggest strength of Lighthouse Beach. Each friend has something to give to the other and that’s a fabulous idea for a story.
Shelley Noble has a fantastic heartwarming writing style. I was captivated by Lighthouse Beach from beginning to end. I couldn’t put it down, each page brings something new and interesting. I enjoyed every surprising twist and turn. The story is filled with soul searching and support, which is something I liked a lot. Lighthouse Beach is a wonderful hopeful story with a gorgeous setting, Lighthouse Island and its regular visitors and inhabits are incredibly fascinating. I loved reading about this magical healing place, it’s the perfect setting for a mesmerizing story about life, love and friendship. Lighthouse Beach put a big smile on my face, I highly recommend this amazing book.
While Lillo tries to be a good host a lot of hurt from the past comes to the surface. Jess’s parents have always been demanding and cold and it’s time for her to choose her own future, but will she be able to? Allie hasn’t been happy in a long time, can she find back a part of herself that she thought she’d lost forever on Lighthouse Beach? Diana is a free spirit, she knows what she wants and who she wants to spend her time with. What will happen when she meets a complex and wounded man who makes her heart beat faster? Lillo is traumatized, but isn’t inclined to share her problems with anyone, will her new best friends be able to make a difference in her life? Can Lighthouse Beach heal the four friends and give them a better perspective on what their futures should look like?
Lighthouse Beach is a beautiful story about friendship, hopes, dreams and making the right choices. Lillo is a sweet and generous woman. She’s broken-hearted, but she’s there for Jess when she needs her. I loved that she steps out of her comfort zone over and over again to be there for her friend. Jess’s confidence needs a boost, she has to learn to stand up for herself and getting her out of the life she’s used to is the only way to save her. She needs three strong friends to change her views and it was interesting to see how she learns to believe in herself. Diana has plenty of confidence and her lively spirit makes everyone come out of their shell, I loved her fierceness and outspokenness. She’s decisive, which Allie could also use, because of the difficult situation she’s in. Together they are stronger than apart and that is the biggest strength of Lighthouse Beach. Each friend has something to give to the other and that’s a fabulous idea for a story.
Shelley Noble has a fantastic heartwarming writing style. I was captivated by Lighthouse Beach from beginning to end. I couldn’t put it down, each page brings something new and interesting. I enjoyed every surprising twist and turn. The story is filled with soul searching and support, which is something I liked a lot. Lighthouse Beach is a wonderful hopeful story with a gorgeous setting, Lighthouse Island and its regular visitors and inhabits are incredibly fascinating. I loved reading about this magical healing place, it’s the perfect setting for a mesmerizing story about life, love and friendship. Lighthouse Beach put a big smile on my face, I highly recommend this amazing book.
June 14, 2018
Thanks to William Morrow and TLC Book Tours for the free copy in exchange for my honest review.
This was my second outing with Shelley Noble, and while this isn't my typical genre, these are the perfect books to have in between all of the psychological thrillers and horror novels. LIGHTHOUSE BEACH is perfect for those looking for a beach read this summer and to have something lighter thrown into their TBR.
Shelley Noble does a great job setting the scene and really pulling the reader into the book with the characters. Lighthouse Beach plays such an important role for all the women in the story and it almost felt like another character in its own right. All of the characters have a very authentic and genuine feel to them - someone you can relate to and empathize with. This is a great story of self-discovery and shows how strong friendships can truly be. I felt that all the characters had a great development throughout the novel and you really get a feel of who they are and how their pasts shaped them.
If you're looking for a great light beach read or are a fan of Shelley Noble, then make sure you find this one for the summer!
I give this 4/5 stars
This was my second outing with Shelley Noble, and while this isn't my typical genre, these are the perfect books to have in between all of the psychological thrillers and horror novels. LIGHTHOUSE BEACH is perfect for those looking for a beach read this summer and to have something lighter thrown into their TBR.
Shelley Noble does a great job setting the scene and really pulling the reader into the book with the characters. Lighthouse Beach plays such an important role for all the women in the story and it almost felt like another character in its own right. All of the characters have a very authentic and genuine feel to them - someone you can relate to and empathize with. This is a great story of self-discovery and shows how strong friendships can truly be. I felt that all the characters had a great development throughout the novel and you really get a feel of who they are and how their pasts shaped them.
If you're looking for a great light beach read or are a fan of Shelley Noble, then make sure you find this one for the summer!
I give this 4/5 stars
May 19, 2018
I received a copy from the publisher (via NetGalley) in exchange for an honest review!
What I say: Lighthouse Beach is many things. It's sweet, inspirational, happy, sad and fun all at once.
Focusing on love and friendship, it tells the story or stories of Jess, Lillo, Allie and Diana, oh and of course a wedding (ish)! We see numerous secrets uncovered along the way, a certain revelation threw me for a loop, whilst others made me smile (not sure what that says about me).
I kept asking myself what I'd do if I were in a situation like Lillo, Allie and Diana. I'm not sure I'd manage to put my point across in such spectacular fashion!
Oh Jess. I wanted her to stand up for herself. I'm sure numerous women find themselves in a similar situation to her in terms of family expectations (well sort of). Hopefully they'd stop anything they don't really want before things reach this far though...
Despite the beginning it has a great holiday read vibe and I'd like to know what happens next on Lighthouse Island.
3.5 - 4 Stars in my Sky!
March 25, 2022
Very predictable, poor character development.. some parts very more cringey rather than funny.. idk, easy read, but would not necessarily recommend to a friend
May 29, 2018
Jess’ wedding is her chance to catch up with friends, celebrate and enjoy her next chapter at the exclusive Kennebunkport hotel. Bringing in her friends Diana and Allie, and reconnecting with a friend from her fat-camp stay, Lillo, gives Jess a reason to forget her doubts and move on. Yet, nothing is as simple as all that – Lillo is wondering why, after all these years, she and Jess would have anything in common, particularly when she knows that she couldn’t possibly ‘keep up’ to the affluence displayed here – in fact, she barely cobbled together everything to come. And then there’s Jess’ friends Diana and Allie: they know the Jess of today, and probably have more in common with her than she ever could, even after an unhappy summer together when they were fourteen.
Diana and Allie are sure that their college-friend Jess is making a HUGE mistake, and although they’ve tried, in many ways, to make the point – they will be there to support her in her choice – even the wrong one. In fact, the only people who don’t think this marriage is not one to succeed are Jess’ parents – even the groom isn’t committed. Well, he is committed to doing things his own way when he’s discovered, pants down, in the parking lot. Relieved that they have a reason to run, the ladies head off in the van Lillo brought and travel to Lighthouse Island, to spend some girl time and help Jess recover from the hurt.
Lyrical, lovely and fresh: stories are told and the women share their struggles, dreams and even secrets – certain of support and acceptance in this small group. Each woman brings her own needs and issues into the story: and their personalities all allow for connections to be built with one another and within a ‘girl power’ sort of group that is supportive, helpful and above all, honest. A lovely story that adds layers and nuance as each story is revealed and the connections are being built between them. This is a friends group that everyone could build, with the right intentions, and perhaps this book will give some pointers into doing just that.
I received a paperback copy of the title from the publisher for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Review first appeared at I am, Indeed
Diana and Allie are sure that their college-friend Jess is making a HUGE mistake, and although they’ve tried, in many ways, to make the point – they will be there to support her in her choice – even the wrong one. In fact, the only people who don’t think this marriage is not one to succeed are Jess’ parents – even the groom isn’t committed. Well, he is committed to doing things his own way when he’s discovered, pants down, in the parking lot. Relieved that they have a reason to run, the ladies head off in the van Lillo brought and travel to Lighthouse Island, to spend some girl time and help Jess recover from the hurt.
Lyrical, lovely and fresh: stories are told and the women share their struggles, dreams and even secrets – certain of support and acceptance in this small group. Each woman brings her own needs and issues into the story: and their personalities all allow for connections to be built with one another and within a ‘girl power’ sort of group that is supportive, helpful and above all, honest. A lovely story that adds layers and nuance as each story is revealed and the connections are being built between them. This is a friends group that everyone could build, with the right intentions, and perhaps this book will give some pointers into doing just that.
I received a paperback copy of the title from the publisher for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Review first appeared at I am, Indeed
May 30, 2018
~~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads ~~
This is a really, really good read. It is a nice chunky length and leaves you satisfied but also wanting more, in the way that you can make some happy assumptions, but still hanker for certainty - I would definitely read a follow up if one were offered!
We meet a wide cast of characters, but concentrate mainly on an unlikely quartet of women. They have all come together for a wedding that doesn't happen, and over the course of a week make some huge discoveries about themselves and each other. I loved how some things come out like a geyser, and others trickle out and in the end just cannot be kept quiet. We get an amazing introduction to the town and its inhabitants, most especially Mac, her lighthouse, and the visiting help. Threads about children, changes, poverty feed in and provide a backdrop to the excess wielded as a weapon by Mr Parker.
I think this would make an awesome beach read, but would be just as good read curled up in the warm. Maine clearly veers more for the cold, wet and wild weather! It is a book full of emotion, secrets and hopes. It is not a romance per se, but has its foundations in love, respect and care for one another, which is just as valuable a story to be told.
This is a really, really good read. It is a nice chunky length and leaves you satisfied but also wanting more, in the way that you can make some happy assumptions, but still hanker for certainty - I would definitely read a follow up if one were offered!
We meet a wide cast of characters, but concentrate mainly on an unlikely quartet of women. They have all come together for a wedding that doesn't happen, and over the course of a week make some huge discoveries about themselves and each other. I loved how some things come out like a geyser, and others trickle out and in the end just cannot be kept quiet. We get an amazing introduction to the town and its inhabitants, most especially Mac, her lighthouse, and the visiting help. Threads about children, changes, poverty feed in and provide a backdrop to the excess wielded as a weapon by Mr Parker.
I think this would make an awesome beach read, but would be just as good read curled up in the warm. Maine clearly veers more for the cold, wet and wild weather! It is a book full of emotion, secrets and hopes. It is not a romance per se, but has its foundations in love, respect and care for one another, which is just as valuable a story to be told.
October 25, 2020
I love women’s books where when the story ends you want to stand up and celebrate the power of women. Lighthouse Beach by Shelley Noble was one of those books! I loved the story and felt that each of the main characters made the book even more enjoyable. That fact that it was set in Maine - to me - made it even better.
Lillo was invited to a marriage of an old friend. She ends up on a road trip with the ex bride, Jess and two others, Diana and Allie. Each woman is running from something - not that they all realize it. The story lines and the fabulous characters in the book were awesome. Down East practical Mainers who knew how to hardscrabble for a living. I loved the wonder of each of the women as truths came to them. The land, the sea, and the lighthouse were all part of the landscape that allowed them to see within themselves.
Lighthouse Beach by Shelley Noble is a great book to read.
Lillo was invited to a marriage of an old friend. She ends up on a road trip with the ex bride, Jess and two others, Diana and Allie. Each woman is running from something - not that they all realize it. The story lines and the fabulous characters in the book were awesome. Down East practical Mainers who knew how to hardscrabble for a living. I loved the wonder of each of the women as truths came to them. The land, the sea, and the lighthouse were all part of the landscape that allowed them to see within themselves.
Lighthouse Beach by Shelley Noble is a great book to read.
January 31, 2022
This book was a bit hard to get through. It was kind of like what Diana said about Ian… intriguing…for me it was just to know how it ended. I skip some text just to get through it. I didn’t like the over use of the language…felt it was unnecessary or the way the author made sleeping around seem casual..degrading towards women. Also why would threatening Tommy Clayton, a minor and who is also the towns bully with bodily harm…hmmm that just didn’t sit well with me. I get it to protect Bobby but call the law.
I loved the town and how they rallied around to help each other, the part timers who rode into town to help. With a few changes this would be a great book.
I loved the town and how they rallied around to help each other, the part timers who rode into town to help. With a few changes this would be a great book.
August 4, 2021
I usually love Shelley Noble's books! I don't know why.... but this latest book just missed the mark. It was slow and I felt no connection to any of the characters.
February 27, 2022
A good story about friends, family and a town that sticks together to help their residents.
Well worth reading.
Well worth reading.
July 30, 2018
Good summer read
March 5, 2020
This book was amazing.
May 10, 2018
I won this book through a Goodreads giveaway. I always enjoy books where the characters go through some sort of self discovery and this book has plenty of that! The characters are well developed with lots of background history making them who they are in the story. This book could easily have a part two. Would love to know what happens next! Certainly a great book to take to the beach this summer.
May 18, 2018
Won this book through Goodreads Giveaway. 3 women attend the wedding of a mutual friend and runaway with the bride before the nuptials. All 4 women have a story and on Lighthouse Island they help each other face whatever is holding them back.
May 4, 2018
Was a fast read filled with characters I liked. A little pat , but that is what one expects in this type of read. I found it to be enjoyable, well written and mostly would enjoy seeing what happens to all the characters next. I also would be interested in the back stories of some of the characters, what led them to the person they are now.
March 2, 2025
Visit Lighthouse Beach and you'll never be the same according to a notice at the entrance to the town. For a group of friends that certainly seems to ring true. Lighthouse Beach is set in Maine in a small town that is sort of dying. No longer can the fishermen find the kind of work they once had.
Lilla has come back to live here, once her parents had a camp but they sold it to fund her education at medical school. So why is she wasting away on Lighthouse Beach? Mystery number one! After being invited to Jessica's disastrous wedding, she ends up with three visitors. I thought these three women would be rich snobs but that was really quite the opposite. They all fit into Lilla's small cottage and adjust well to a week at the beach.
Jessica had come to Lilla's parents' camp so has known Lilla for a long time. She doesn't seem to have much of a backbone when it comes to her terrible parents and her ghastly father. Jessica has had to weather rich, manipulative, judgemental parents. It's left her with issues! Well to be honest many of the characters have issues. Allie has lost her husband and has a five year old waiting for her at home. Diana has had two divorces. They are all intelligent, gifted and mostly successful women.
As well in this town there is Mac, growing old but still wanting to watch over the lighthouse. And Dr. Clancy who wants to watch over Mac. Doc (Ned) rides into town every so often to provide medical care with Dr. Clancy. As well there is Ian the vet... yes you guessed it, he has issues too!
Much happens in a week, the background to Lilla and Ian especially is revealed, and the anguish and guilt they experience. As I read on I see how Lilla and Jessica have both in a way experienced similar consequences to each other of other people's behavior.
I loved the final chapters of the book as the action heated up and stands were made. Life issued a challenge and those challenges were taken up.
The story left me a little dissatisfied. I wanted to know more about Allie. Where to for Lillie and Jessica and Diana. Yes I could finish off their stories in the way I'd like for them in my imagination. However... surely there has to be another book in there somewhere from Shelley Noble about them.
Lilla has come back to live here, once her parents had a camp but they sold it to fund her education at medical school. So why is she wasting away on Lighthouse Beach? Mystery number one! After being invited to Jessica's disastrous wedding, she ends up with three visitors. I thought these three women would be rich snobs but that was really quite the opposite. They all fit into Lilla's small cottage and adjust well to a week at the beach.
Jessica had come to Lilla's parents' camp so has known Lilla for a long time. She doesn't seem to have much of a backbone when it comes to her terrible parents and her ghastly father. Jessica has had to weather rich, manipulative, judgemental parents. It's left her with issues! Well to be honest many of the characters have issues. Allie has lost her husband and has a five year old waiting for her at home. Diana has had two divorces. They are all intelligent, gifted and mostly successful women.
As well in this town there is Mac, growing old but still wanting to watch over the lighthouse. And Dr. Clancy who wants to watch over Mac. Doc (Ned) rides into town every so often to provide medical care with Dr. Clancy. As well there is Ian the vet... yes you guessed it, he has issues too!
Much happens in a week, the background to Lilla and Ian especially is revealed, and the anguish and guilt they experience. As I read on I see how Lilla and Jessica have both in a way experienced similar consequences to each other of other people's behavior.
I loved the final chapters of the book as the action heated up and stands were made. Life issued a challenge and those challenges were taken up.
The story left me a little dissatisfied. I wanted to know more about Allie. Where to for Lillie and Jessica and Diana. Yes I could finish off their stories in the way I'd like for them in my imagination. However... surely there has to be another book in there somewhere from Shelley Noble about them.
March 21, 2018
When 3 women attend the wedding of a friend, little did they know that within 24 hours, everything would have changed! But that is exactly what happened to Lillo, Jess, Allie, and Diana.
I have to say, that when I started out reading Lighthouse Beach, I thought it was going to be a funny, light-hearted book, but it is more than that! It's inspiring, funny, heartbreaking, confidence building story about new and old friendships, hidden pasts, secret, passion, and community, and that is truly what it feels like when you read it, like your apart of its community.
So let's get to the basics, the story is a new approach to adult sisterhood; the writing has that melodic rhythm, which draws you in, and you never want to let it go. I'm hoping that the author doesn't leave the story there, that this book is just the beginning for Lillo, Jess, Allie, and Diana, and whether or not the town slogan of "Once you visit Lighthouse Beach, Life will never be the same" is true for this quartet.
I give Lighthouse Beach 5 stars
I have to say, that when I started out reading Lighthouse Beach, I thought it was going to be a funny, light-hearted book, but it is more than that! It's inspiring, funny, heartbreaking, confidence building story about new and old friendships, hidden pasts, secret, passion, and community, and that is truly what it feels like when you read it, like your apart of its community.
So let's get to the basics, the story is a new approach to adult sisterhood; the writing has that melodic rhythm, which draws you in, and you never want to let it go. I'm hoping that the author doesn't leave the story there, that this book is just the beginning for Lillo, Jess, Allie, and Diana, and whether or not the town slogan of "Once you visit Lighthouse Beach, Life will never be the same" is true for this quartet.
I give Lighthouse Beach 5 stars
January 31, 2018
This was a wonderful story of 5 women finding their way. Lillo is heading to Jess's wedding. She hasn't seen Jess since they were together in fat camp during their teens. Jess is marrying the man her family has hand picked for her. Diana and Allie are college friends of Jess and are sure Jess is making a mistake. When Jess and her friends catch the groom to be in a car with a waitress they hightail it away to Lighthouse Beach and Lillo's small cottage. The girls come under the wing of Mac, the woman to mans the lighthouse and has her own problems. These five ladies help each other and solve several problems within the small beach community. Great read, nice romance and a lovely setting where I'd love to live.
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