What do you think?
Rate this book
Whisper Lake #3
Can't Fight the Moonlight
Justin Blackwood can't remember a time when he believed in the magic of anything, least of all love. A cynical businessman, who grew up in a broken home, he guards his heart with every breath he takes. His job has taken him all over the world and roots are the last thing he wants...until he meets a beautiful innkeeper in Whisper Lake.
Warm-hearted, free-spirited Lizzie Cole wants it all—the dream job of running her own inn and a man who wants to settle down. Despite a previous romantic setback, she still believes in happily ever after and her perfect soulmate. She just has to find him. While the dark-haired man with the shockingly blue eyes makes her heart beat faster, Justin Blackwood is the last man who should leave her breathless. He's her complete opposite and they don't want the same things.
But when a lunar eclipse throws Whisper Lake into darkness, Lizzie and Justin find themselves struggling to fight the moonlight and a love that could change their lives—if they're willing to take the risk.
Warm-hearted, free-spirited Lizzie Cole wants it all—the dream job of running her own inn and a man who wants to settle down. Despite a previous romantic setback, she still believes in happily ever after and her perfect soulmate. She just has to find him. While the dark-haired man with the shockingly blue eyes makes her heart beat faster, Justin Blackwood is the last man who should leave her breathless. He's her complete opposite and they don't want the same things.
But when a lunar eclipse throws Whisper Lake into darkness, Lizzie and Justin find themselves struggling to fight the moonlight and a love that could change their lives—if they're willing to take the risk.
284 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 28, 2020
997 people are currently reading
414 people want to read
About the author
Barbara Freethy
155 books2,697 followersBarbara's love of writing developed out of a love of reading. Growing up in an all-boy neighborhood, she spent quite a bit of time reading through her mother's large library, many of which were romantic novels. After graduating from the University of California at Santa Barbara, she went into Public Relations, but soon discovered that writing was her true passion.
Barbara was traditionally published for many years, then formed her own publishing company FOG CITY PUBLISHING in 2011 and has since sold over 10 million books! She has published 75 novels ranging from mystery thrillers to romantic suspense and contemporary romance.
Her book SUMMER SECRETS was a #1 New York Times bestseller! And twenty-five other novels have also appeared on the New York Times and USA Today Bestseller Lists. She is currently writing two ongoing series, a contemporary romance series set in Whisper Lake and a romantic suspense series: Off The Grid: FBI Series. She is also known for her bestselling Callaway Family Series, which offers up fourteen books and two novellas.
When Barbara isn't writing or publishing, which isn't very often these days, she is playing tennis, hanging out with friends and family in beautiful Lake Tahoe or reading books!
For a complete list of her books, visit her website!
Barbara was traditionally published for many years, then formed her own publishing company FOG CITY PUBLISHING in 2011 and has since sold over 10 million books! She has published 75 novels ranging from mystery thrillers to romantic suspense and contemporary romance.
Her book SUMMER SECRETS was a #1 New York Times bestseller! And twenty-five other novels have also appeared on the New York Times and USA Today Bestseller Lists. She is currently writing two ongoing series, a contemporary romance series set in Whisper Lake and a romantic suspense series: Off The Grid: FBI Series. She is also known for her bestselling Callaway Family Series, which offers up fourteen books and two novellas.
When Barbara isn't writing or publishing, which isn't very often these days, she is playing tennis, hanging out with friends and family in beautiful Lake Tahoe or reading books!
For a complete list of her books, visit her website!
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 127 reviews
April 26, 2020
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I am a fan of this author and this story did not disappoint. This is the third installment of the Whisper Lake series and while this can be read as a standalone, it is also nice to reconnect with favorite characters in the series.
Justin is wound up tight and is focused on his business and the success he is carving out for himself. He commits to meet his grandparents vow renewal at Whisper Lake, but is stressed because his business needs him. His first day is interrupted by an accident with Lizzie, the owner of the Inn, he is staying at. She is eager to help him and upon realizing how stressed he is, she is determined to make this visit a nice relaxing vacation.
There meeting creates a spark and they are attracted to one another. They affirm early on that if they act on their attraction, they must have their eyes wide open because Justin will return home after the ceremony. But as they get to know one another, something bigger is happening that neither is prepared for. Secrets are revealed which makes each more vulnerable and question whether they can have a future together.
This book was difficult to put down. I love how this author has you buckled up for a fun ride from the first chapter and you are enjoying the experience. Love the Whisper Lake series and look forward to more.
I am a fan of this author and this story did not disappoint. This is the third installment of the Whisper Lake series and while this can be read as a standalone, it is also nice to reconnect with favorite characters in the series.
Justin is wound up tight and is focused on his business and the success he is carving out for himself. He commits to meet his grandparents vow renewal at Whisper Lake, but is stressed because his business needs him. His first day is interrupted by an accident with Lizzie, the owner of the Inn, he is staying at. She is eager to help him and upon realizing how stressed he is, she is determined to make this visit a nice relaxing vacation.
There meeting creates a spark and they are attracted to one another. They affirm early on that if they act on their attraction, they must have their eyes wide open because Justin will return home after the ceremony. But as they get to know one another, something bigger is happening that neither is prepared for. Secrets are revealed which makes each more vulnerable and question whether they can have a future together.
This book was difficult to put down. I love how this author has you buckled up for a fun ride from the first chapter and you are enjoying the experience. Love the Whisper Lake series and look forward to more.
April 28, 2020
Justin and Lizzie’s story was so engaging and fun!! Watching wound up Justin slowly loosen up and let down his walls was wonderful. Justin’s take no prisoners character was clearly still hurting after the pain of his childhood. Lizzie was happy and joyful, but struggled with feeling as if she was failing at her dream. Watching them find their way to each other was so engrossing, I wanted more!! I can’t wait for the next book in the series.
April 28, 2020
Another Whisper Lake favorite. Barbara has created a town and community that leaves you wanting to return over and over again. It must be the Whisper of the lake. Or the amazing stories that surround it. Or maybe the great group of friends that make up the magical town. All I know is that I can never get enough. Lizzie owns a small Inn that treats its guests like family. Justin works way too much but, has come to Whisper Lake to help his grandparents celebrate their renewal of vows. Lizzie is a bright light that is always on the go looking on the bright side of life. The complete opposite of Justin. But, after a crash beginning, they might just find a happy middle and ending.
April 24, 2020
Lizzie is such a happy, helpful, loving person. Her character came across the pages and made me want to be around her and visit her Inn. You can see by the way she has repeat business that her Inn wouldn’t be as booked up if it wasn’t for her. I loved how she tried to bring Justin out of his grumpiness and all business. I felt bad about Justin’s childhood, but was so happy that he had his grandparents. He has some wonderful grandparents. It was so obvious how Justin’s grandmother was trying to push Lizzie and Justin together. I was glad to see Lizzie get Justin to stop some and relax. There were also some wonderful couples that came to the Inn with fascinating stories. I enjoyed the book and encourage you to read it. I was given a copy and voluntarily wrote a review.
April 23, 2020
Can’t Fight the Moonlight shows a less edgy side of
talented author, Barbara Freethy. This is a sweet romantic story about an innkeeper and a businessman, both driven to succeed. He wants a fling; she is a forever kind of girl. Part of a series, the author continues to introduce readers to the inhabitants of Whisper Lake. Totally different and moving at a slower pace than Ms. Freethy’s adrenaline inducing romantic suspense novels, the book is no less engaging and enjoyable. The focus is on family, relationships and self discovery within the context of a small town with a lot to offer and well defined characters that draw readers into the unfolding story. I voluntarily reviewed an advance copy of this book. Most highly recommend.
talented author, Barbara Freethy. This is a sweet romantic story about an innkeeper and a businessman, both driven to succeed. He wants a fling; she is a forever kind of girl. Part of a series, the author continues to introduce readers to the inhabitants of Whisper Lake. Totally different and moving at a slower pace than Ms. Freethy’s adrenaline inducing romantic suspense novels, the book is no less engaging and enjoyable. The focus is on family, relationships and self discovery within the context of a small town with a lot to offer and well defined characters that draw readers into the unfolding story. I voluntarily reviewed an advance copy of this book. Most highly recommend.
April 28, 2020
“ Lizzie can be a force of nature, I sometimes wind up in places I never expected to be when she’s involved “
Welcome back to Whisper Lake a beautiful town where everyone is family.
Justin is just there at his grandmothers insistence for his grandparents vow renewal. Justin is all work and no play, he demands the most out of himself, never takes a vacation or a day off
Lizzie is the owner of the Inn with big plans and a big heart. She believes in forever!
Justin and Lizzie may be my favorite characters
I love Barbara Freethy books and this is one not to miss !
Welcome back to Whisper Lake a beautiful town where everyone is family.
Justin is just there at his grandmothers insistence for his grandparents vow renewal. Justin is all work and no play, he demands the most out of himself, never takes a vacation or a day off
Lizzie is the owner of the Inn with big plans and a big heart. She believes in forever!
Justin and Lizzie may be my favorite characters
I love Barbara Freethy books and this is one not to miss !
April 25, 2020
This was such a beautiful story between Lizzie, the owner of The Firefly Inn at Whisper Lake, and Justin, the owner of a robotics company. Justin has focused all his time and energy on his company, not taking time to enjoy life at all. And that’s just the way he likes it. Until he arrives in Whisper Lake to attend a vow renewal for his grandparents. A slight accident has Justin learning how to slow down and enjoy life. Of course, the sweet, optimistic Inn owner may have something to do with that!
Barbara Freethy has such a wonderful way with words. She transports you to a world filled with true love and lasting friendships. As you read you can’t help but feel like you’re a part of it. The characters in her stories all have such vibrant personalities that you really feel like you know them. This story truly touched a place in my heart. I found myself rooting for Lizzie and Justin! I can’t wait for the next installment in the Whisper Lake series! While this book is part of a series, it can be read as a standalone.
Barbara Freethy has such a wonderful way with words. She transports you to a world filled with true love and lasting friendships. As you read you can’t help but feel like you’re a part of it. The characters in her stories all have such vibrant personalities that you really feel like you know them. This story truly touched a place in my heart. I found myself rooting for Lizzie and Justin! I can’t wait for the next installment in the Whisper Lake series! While this book is part of a series, it can be read as a standalone.
April 24, 2020
I have yet to be disappointed when I pick up a Barbara Freethy book. CAN’T FIGHT THE MOONLIGHT has so much to love: two strong protagonists who are surprised to find out they share a drive to succeed in their businesses. What separates them are the size of their dreams.
Justin thrives on the challenge of growing a global company; Lizzie is happy in her own slice of paradise in Whisper Lake, Colorado. Add in meddling grandparents and childhood trauma that influences how they each react to their present and you’ve got a delightful tale of two souls who can’t see they are destined for each other.
CAN’T FIGHT THE MOONLIGHT is Book 3 of Freethy’s Whisper Lake series (a total of 6 titles are planned). This is an easy title to jump into the series. I’ve read all of them and now want to go back and re-read the first two titles to remember all of the details.
Note: I received an ARC in return for an honest review.
Justin thrives on the challenge of growing a global company; Lizzie is happy in her own slice of paradise in Whisper Lake, Colorado. Add in meddling grandparents and childhood trauma that influences how they each react to their present and you’ve got a delightful tale of two souls who can’t see they are destined for each other.
CAN’T FIGHT THE MOONLIGHT is Book 3 of Freethy’s Whisper Lake series (a total of 6 titles are planned). This is an easy title to jump into the series. I’ve read all of them and now want to go back and re-read the first two titles to remember all of the details.
Note: I received an ARC in return for an honest review.
April 22, 2020
Whisper Lake continues to extend its magic to all those who come to it's shores. This time it's Justin that falls under its spell when he meets innkeeper Lizzie. Lizzie is beautiful, upbeat, and a gregarious people pleaser...everything Justin doesn't have time for. He is all business with his eye fixed on the next big deal. His grandparents ask him to come for the ceremony at the inn to renew their vows on their 57th Anniversary and he can't turn them down. This puts him in a collision course with Lizzie...literally. He and Lizzie are oil and water at first. They are attracted to each other immediately, the chemistry between them is hard to ignore. But Justin's not looking for love and Lizzie doesn't do flings. I love how Barbara Freethy doesn't force the romance in her stories...it occurs naturally and organically....oh yeah...there's also a lunar eclipse and a romantic reunion 10 years in the making....and a ghost in the attic!!! This book is truly a joy to read.
Thank you Barbara Freethy for the opportunity to read and review an early copy of Can't Fight the Moonlight.
Thank you Barbara Freethy for the opportunity to read and review an early copy of Can't Fight the Moonlight.
April 25, 2020
This is a great return to Whisper Lake (or makes a great first trip to those new to this series). This is the story of Lizzie and Justin. Both are following their career dreams, both are trying to prove themselves worthy (mostly to themselves), and both harbor secrets that they are afraid to share. Because of that, both have created walls around their hearts and avoid seeking out love. But the chemistry and attraction between them are real, and with the magic of Whisper Lake, good friends, and family, they both wonder if maybe it isn't worth taking a chance. There is plenty of emotion, a few laughs, a few tears, and a heartwarming story that make this a must-read. I always look forward to my next read from Barbara Freethy and this one does not disappoint!
April 28, 2020
I always enjoy a return to Whisper Lake, and Can’t Fight the Moonlight is no exception. Both Justin and Lizzie are workaholics determined to see their businesses succeed, only Justin is succeeding at the expense of his personal life, while Lizzie is failing due to her kindhearted nature. They force each other to see some hard truths and to face them head on.
This book has it all—some laughs, some tears, some drama, and, of course, romance. You’re always guaranteed a happy-ever-after from this author, but it’s the emotional journey she takes the characters on that make it well worth the ride. I can’t wait to see what she has in store for the rest of the series.
**I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC provided by the author**
This book has it all—some laughs, some tears, some drama, and, of course, romance. You’re always guaranteed a happy-ever-after from this author, but it’s the emotional journey she takes the characters on that make it well worth the ride. I can’t wait to see what she has in store for the rest of the series.
**I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC provided by the author**
April 28, 2020
Justin is a workaholic who has agreed to attend his Grandparents renewal of their wedding vows. His Grandparents stepped in to raise him when his parents weren’t around. Lizzie runs the inn where they are staying. Sparks fly but because of his past he isn’t interested in a long term relationship. Lizzie and Justin are total opposites. Can they reach a common ground? This is a story about a family that has split apart and needs to heal, and a sweet romance. It is set in the small town of Whisper Lake and there is a a great cast of characters. This book is part of a series but could stand alone.
April 24, 2020
This series just get better and better. This was a touching story with heartache, family estrangement, a ghost or two, a wedding and a love reconciliation. And that is just the people staying at the inn.
When Justin agreed to attend his grandparents vow renewal he didn’t expect to meet the vibrant Lizzie. Justin, a workaholic, who can’t remember the last time he wasn’t working is forced to slowdown and get to know Lizzie the inn owner for the sake of his grandparents, and before you know it he is not sure that he wants to leave, then he gets a nasty surprise that puts his and Lizzie’s romance on ice. Will they be able to get over the hurdles and find love?
When Justin agreed to attend his grandparents vow renewal he didn’t expect to meet the vibrant Lizzie. Justin, a workaholic, who can’t remember the last time he wasn’t working is forced to slowdown and get to know Lizzie the inn owner for the sake of his grandparents, and before you know it he is not sure that he wants to leave, then he gets a nasty surprise that puts his and Lizzie’s romance on ice. Will they be able to get over the hurdles and find love?
April 25, 2020
I loved this book, there was intrigue and romance and anger for a lost loved one, there was a mystery as always, I found myself getting involved with each character, loved Lizzie and Justin’s journey, the twists and turns, only one raunchy bit this time, and the intrigue of would they find a way or say farewell, couldn’t put it down totally hooked, the only thing I was shocked about it sort of came to an abrupt end, I was expecting a bit more but loved it as always, another great read Barbara, can’t wait for the next one
April 24, 2020
What an emotional story! I absolutely love the Whisper Lake crew and the calming effect it appears to have on people. The relationships of the family and friends of Whisper Lake are heart warming. Justin and Lizzie are so similar with their career driven minds. Justin with a closed up heart and Lizzie with her open and generous heart that these two can't help but be drawn together. These two have instant chemistry that just increased as they spend more time together.
Looking forward to reading more of the Whisper Lake series.
Looking forward to reading more of the Whisper Lake series.
April 28, 2020
Can’t Fight the Moonlight (Whisper Lake #3) by: Barbara Freethy
Emotional, unpredictable, irresistible, unforgettable. Freethy ties the heart in knots with Can't Fight the Moonlight. Justin and Lizzie are as haunting as the town they call home. Different yet the same, life is about to teach two lost souls, how unpredictable love can be. Sexy takes a simplistic dive into a complicated journey and provides the perfect getaway for a heart.
Emotional, unpredictable, irresistible, unforgettable. Freethy ties the heart in knots with Can't Fight the Moonlight. Justin and Lizzie are as haunting as the town they call home. Different yet the same, life is about to teach two lost souls, how unpredictable love can be. Sexy takes a simplistic dive into a complicated journey and provides the perfect getaway for a heart.
May 7, 2020
ARC for honest review with no compensation
Can’t Fight the Moonlight is book 3 in the Whisper Lake series by Barbara Freethy. Welcome back to Whisper Lake..
Justin Blackwood and Lizzie Cole complete opposites, who meet when he comes to Whisper Lake to attend his grandparents vow renewal celebration.
What happens next…sparks fly, secrets, lunar eclipse and finding a happily ever after or not? Only time will tell....
Can’t Fight the Moonlight is book 3 in the Whisper Lake series by Barbara Freethy. Welcome back to Whisper Lake..
Justin Blackwood and Lizzie Cole complete opposites, who meet when he comes to Whisper Lake to attend his grandparents vow renewal celebration.
What happens next…sparks fly, secrets, lunar eclipse and finding a happily ever after or not? Only time will tell....
April 28, 2020
I have just finished this book and WOW! Such an emotional book. The characters of Justin and Lizzie were so well written, with so much depth, there were scenes in this book that gave me a lump in my throat. I don’t want to ruin it but the scene in the attic was so powerful and moving. I have been a fan of Ms Freethy’s for awhile, and her books are always filled with well written characters, but, hand on heart I honestly think Justin might be my favourite character she has ever created. The pain, vulnerability and stoic nature was so real, and honestly, there could have been no one more perfect for him than Lizzie Cole, a women who as a massive heart, who wants to please everyone, but is in desperate need of support for her struggling Inn.
Catching up with old friends and meeting new ones, Whisper Lake has a way of bringing people together and allowing them breathing space to heal.
Absolutely loved this book...and can’t wait for the next one
Catching up with old friends and meeting new ones, Whisper Lake has a way of bringing people together and allowing them breathing space to heal.
Absolutely loved this book...and can’t wait for the next one
April 23, 2020
Barbara Freethy’s new book “Can’t Fight the Moonlight” is a lovely romantic story about Justin, a workaholic and Lizzie, the inn keeper he meets when he arrives to attend his grandparents’ marriage renewal ceremony in Whisper Lake. A well written and touching story, you can never go wrong with a book by Ms. Freethy. I loved this one a lot and especially enjoyed reading about the people I had already met in the Whisper Lake series. Highly recommend this one who likes books that bring out warm feelings and happy tears.
April 23, 2020
This is such a good book!
Justin, is on his way the Whisper Lake,
for his grandparents wedding renewal.
He really should be in London.
Lizzie, has been the owner of the inn
for the past two years. It something
she has always dreamed of doing.
I truly enjoyed reading it!
It's a engaging & moving story.
Everything you want in a true romance.
Justin ❤ Lizzie, steal your heart
from the very first pages to the last.
Must Read Story!!
Justin, is on his way the Whisper Lake,
for his grandparents wedding renewal.
He really should be in London.
Lizzie, has been the owner of the inn
for the past two years. It something
she has always dreamed of doing.
I truly enjoyed reading it!
It's a engaging & moving story.
Everything you want in a true romance.
Justin ❤ Lizzie, steal your heart
from the very first pages to the last.
Must Read Story!!
April 25, 2020
Can't Fight the Moonlight is a book about second chances throughout the story. I will read the first two in the Whisper Lake series to get more background, then reread this story. I enjoyed the characters and the closeness of family and look forward to the next book.
April 29, 2020
This is a fantastic addition to this series! I love visiting whisper lake and it’s residents and have to say this latest story had me shedding a few tears , laughing a few laughs and will make your visit well worth it! Love, family, trust, tragedy and romance, I loved Justin and Lizzie’s story, loved seeing old friends as well as meeting new ones! Absolutely fabulous!
April 23, 2020
Great book! I want to live in Whisper Lake! Lizzie owns an inn and has a run in with a sexy handsome workaholic man-Justin. She finds out that he is staying at her inn. They know that there are secrets but will they be able to share them and move past them? And the things the guest and friends do-a ghost? A 10 real relationship? Family drama?
April 23, 2020
And once again Barbara Freethy delivers an amazing story with such wonderful characters and story lines. Justin and Lizzy each have a strong work ethic and feel they have to give their all to the job. Thankfully they grow to realize there is so much more. Getting re-acquainted with friends and family from earlier books is always fun.
April 25, 2020
I’m always guaranteed to read a warm wonderful book from Barbara. Lizzie and Justin’s story draws you in and makes you feel part of the town. I love the Whisper Lake group, I’m looking forward to reading the next one in the series, hopefully Adams story. A great read.
May 25, 2020
3 1/2.
May 25, 2020
Whisper Lake is definitely a place you want to visit, Justin and Lizzie’s story was so sweet! I can’t wait for the next book!
August 15, 2023
shocked by how much i ate this book up!!
April 24, 2020
Another great read in this series. Lots of drama, romance and family interaction. Lizzie is a struggling B&B owner sacrifices for giving her clients whatever they want. Justin is a work alcoholic who has no emotions to give to anyone due to his childhood and his loss. He is only at the B&B because of his grandparents wedding anniversary and renewal of their wedding vows.
April 23, 2020
A beautiful story about 2 people learning to really live life. There are so many different emotions Barbara brings out in her readers. A truly feel good book. Looking forward to the next book in the series.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 127 reviews