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The Lighthouse Brides Collection
Visit heroic beacons along the shores of Florida, Oregon, Massachusetts, Texas, North Carolina, and Wisconsin, where their light keepers work tirelessly and long for love. Immerse yourself in the beauty and danger of lighthouse history as six romances bring together adventurous—but lonely—souls. Penned by an exclusive selection of Christian fiction authors—including DiAnn Mills—this collection of stories will become a cherished favorite.
When Love Awaits by Lynn A. Coleman
Phantom of My Heart by DiAnn Mills
A Beacon in the Storm by Andrea Boesharr
Safe Harbor by Paige Winship Dooly
Whispers Across the Blue by DiAnn Mills
A Time to Love by Sally Laity
When Love Awaits by Lynn A. Coleman
Phantom of My Heart by DiAnn Mills
A Beacon in the Storm by Andrea Boesharr
Safe Harbor by Paige Winship Dooly
Whispers Across the Blue by DiAnn Mills
A Time to Love by Sally Laity
400 pages, Paperback
First published October 1, 2013
39 people are currently reading
422 people want to read
About the author
DiAnn Mills
129 books1,976 followersDiAnn Mills is a bestselling author who invites her readers to step into stories where suspense meets adventure and romance warms the heart. Known for crafting unforgettable characters tangled in unpredictable plots, DiAnn believes every breath we take unfolds a story waiting to be told—so why not make it thrilling?
Her novels have consistently landed on bestseller lists including CBA, ECPA, and Publishers Weekly, and have won prestigious awards such as the Christy, Selah, Golden Scroll, Inspirational Readers’ Choice, and Carol awards.
DiAnn is a founding board member of American Christian Fiction Writers and Conference Advisor for the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers. She actively participates in Advanced Writers and Speakers Association, Mystery Writers of America, the Jerry Jenkins Writers Guild, International Thriller Writers, Outliers Writing University, and The Christian Pen. DiAnn passionately invests in helping fellow authors succeed through mentoring, book coaching, and editing. She travels nationwide speaking and teaching engaging writing workshops.
A proud coffee snob who roasts her own beans, DiAnn also enjoys diving into good books, experimenting in the kitchen, and unabashedly spoiling her grandchildren—whom she insists are the smartest kids in the universe. She and her husband make their home under the sunny skies of Houston, Texas.
Connect with DiAnn online for behind-the-scenes glimpses, writing tips, and lively discussions on any of the following social media platforms:
Website: https://diannmills.com/
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/diann...
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/diannmills
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/diannmillsa...
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/diannmills/
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/diannmills/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/diannmills
X: https://twitter.com/diannmills
Her novels have consistently landed on bestseller lists including CBA, ECPA, and Publishers Weekly, and have won prestigious awards such as the Christy, Selah, Golden Scroll, Inspirational Readers’ Choice, and Carol awards.
DiAnn is a founding board member of American Christian Fiction Writers and Conference Advisor for the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers. She actively participates in Advanced Writers and Speakers Association, Mystery Writers of America, the Jerry Jenkins Writers Guild, International Thriller Writers, Outliers Writing University, and The Christian Pen. DiAnn passionately invests in helping fellow authors succeed through mentoring, book coaching, and editing. She travels nationwide speaking and teaching engaging writing workshops.
A proud coffee snob who roasts her own beans, DiAnn also enjoys diving into good books, experimenting in the kitchen, and unabashedly spoiling her grandchildren—whom she insists are the smartest kids in the universe. She and her husband make their home under the sunny skies of Houston, Texas.
Connect with DiAnn online for behind-the-scenes glimpses, writing tips, and lively discussions on any of the following social media platforms:
Website: https://diannmills.com/
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/diann...
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/diannmills
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/diannmillsa...
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/diannmills/
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/diannmills/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/diannmills
X: https://twitter.com/diannmills
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
February 15, 2017
by Andrea Renee Cox
The Lighthouse Brides Collection is a delightful group of novellas that touched my heart at every turn. It was especially neat to read about different lighthouses after visiting a couple of lighthouses on a recent family vacation. It was easier for me to picture it, since I had climbed up the stairs of a lighthouse and seen the detached home. But even if I had not, these authors did a beautiful job of describing the settings and characters... making me feel like I was right there in the scenes myself. I can hardly wait to read the next collection of novellas in my to-be-read stack!
The Lighthouse Brides Collection is a delightful group of novellas that touched my heart at every turn. It was especially neat to read about different lighthouses after visiting a couple of lighthouses on a recent family vacation. It was easier for me to picture it, since I had climbed up the stairs of a lighthouse and seen the detached home. But even if I had not, these authors did a beautiful job of describing the settings and characters... making me feel like I was right there in the scenes myself. I can hardly wait to read the next collection of novellas in my to-be-read stack!
March 5, 2021
Four hundred page book with six stories inside.
Brief synopses:
When Love Awaits, by Lynn Coleman ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Ocracoke, NC 1825
Main characters:
Fiona and Ian
Fiona believed she was called to be lighthouse keeper. She was used to solitude so when Ian kept hanging around chatting with her father for hours each night, she was more than a little peeved.
Ian fell hard for Fiona but she never gave him a moment's notice...that is until a hurricane beat up the island and her parents weren’t there. She realized she could use some company and perhaps a little help. Things changed literally overnight.
The change in Fiona's heart was a bit unbelievable. She didn’t like him at all and within a day she was in love with him 🤨. But it was all sweet and very clean.
Phantom of My Heart, by DiAnn Mills ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Summer 1845, Massachusetts
Main characters:
Lynette and McNair
After Lynette's family was killed in a boating accident, her life was forever altered. The villagers thought she was a bit odd. Her grief was too evident for anyone to feel comfortable with her.
Then a new lighthouse keeper was hired, which meant she would need to leave. But things didn’t turn out quite that way.
Someone was spreading tales and turning public tide against her to the point that she was being blamed for killing her family.
The phantom the story mentioned was someone Lynette didn’t like at all, in fact she blamed him for her family's death. So why it’s called "Phantom of her Heart", baffles me.
Beacon in the Storm, by Andrea Boeshaar ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Wisconsin, 1868
Main characters:
Amanda and Cade
Amanda and her mother loved their life as lighthouse keepers. But her mother became seriously ill and death was imminent. To survive and keep her home meant she'd be in for a fight to keep the position.
Captain Cade Danfield and his sweet daughter, Jenny, stayed a few days at the lighthouse after a storm ran his schooner aground.
Cade and Amanda developed a friendship that was quite fun.
The ending was sweet, I just wish it had turned out differently. To say what that might have been would give away part of the story.
Safe Harbor, by Paige Winship Dooly ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
From Ireland to Florida, 1883
Main characters:
Regan and Ian
Children: Keera and Johnny
Regan and her daughter were washed ashore in Florida after an unpleasant voyage from Ireland.
The lighthouse keeper and his son found them, taking them to his granny to tend to Regan's wound and nurture her back to health.
Loved the friendship between the children, and the adults as well.
Very sweet, very short story.
Whispers Across the Blue, by DiAnn Mills ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Galveston, Texas, 1875
Main characters:
Julie and Mason
Jule Portier and Mason Channing had true love. Their wedding was to take place after Mason's up-coming two month cargo voyage. Jule always fears his trips.
Mason wanted his mother to love her as much as he did, but Jule's social status as a lighthouse keeper's daughter was so too far below the Channings that Mrs. Channing couldn’t accept her.
What a good story! I enjoyed this one a lot. Lovely faith messages all the way through.
A Time to Love, by Sally Laity ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Oregon, Summer 1898
Main characters: Eden and Dane
Dane took his brother's captain position after his brother drowned, which left Dane's sister-in-law and four children with debts and no income. WithDane captaining his brother's boat he would be able to pay the debts and provide for the family until she ever married again.
After Eden's husband died, she took on her husband’s co-lighthouse keeper position with the previous partner.
Sadly her husband had been the controlling type so she rarely met folks from town, and certainly never met ship captains. But when a captain coming into port by waved at her, then showed up to deliver a package, well, it wasn’t too long before she and Dane became good friends.
All in all, this book with six stories made for a good read. Maybe not enough character development, but the stories were short, so it’s to be expected.
Brief synopses:
When Love Awaits, by Lynn Coleman ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Ocracoke, NC 1825
Main characters:
Fiona and Ian
Fiona believed she was called to be lighthouse keeper. She was used to solitude so when Ian kept hanging around chatting with her father for hours each night, she was more than a little peeved.
Ian fell hard for Fiona but she never gave him a moment's notice...that is until a hurricane beat up the island and her parents weren’t there. She realized she could use some company and perhaps a little help. Things changed literally overnight.
The change in Fiona's heart was a bit unbelievable. She didn’t like him at all and within a day she was in love with him 🤨. But it was all sweet and very clean.
Phantom of My Heart, by DiAnn Mills ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Summer 1845, Massachusetts
Main characters:
Lynette and McNair
After Lynette's family was killed in a boating accident, her life was forever altered. The villagers thought she was a bit odd. Her grief was too evident for anyone to feel comfortable with her.
Then a new lighthouse keeper was hired, which meant she would need to leave. But things didn’t turn out quite that way.
Someone was spreading tales and turning public tide against her to the point that she was being blamed for killing her family.
The phantom the story mentioned was someone Lynette didn’t like at all, in fact she blamed him for her family's death. So why it’s called "Phantom of her Heart", baffles me.
Beacon in the Storm, by Andrea Boeshaar ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Wisconsin, 1868
Main characters:
Amanda and Cade
Amanda and her mother loved their life as lighthouse keepers. But her mother became seriously ill and death was imminent. To survive and keep her home meant she'd be in for a fight to keep the position.
Captain Cade Danfield and his sweet daughter, Jenny, stayed a few days at the lighthouse after a storm ran his schooner aground.
Cade and Amanda developed a friendship that was quite fun.
The ending was sweet, I just wish it had turned out differently. To say what that might have been would give away part of the story.
Safe Harbor, by Paige Winship Dooly ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
From Ireland to Florida, 1883
Main characters:
Regan and Ian
Children: Keera and Johnny
Regan and her daughter were washed ashore in Florida after an unpleasant voyage from Ireland.
The lighthouse keeper and his son found them, taking them to his granny to tend to Regan's wound and nurture her back to health.
Loved the friendship between the children, and the adults as well.
Very sweet, very short story.
Whispers Across the Blue, by DiAnn Mills ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Galveston, Texas, 1875
Main characters:
Julie and Mason
Jule Portier and Mason Channing had true love. Their wedding was to take place after Mason's up-coming two month cargo voyage. Jule always fears his trips.
Mason wanted his mother to love her as much as he did, but Jule's social status as a lighthouse keeper's daughter was so too far below the Channings that Mrs. Channing couldn’t accept her.
What a good story! I enjoyed this one a lot. Lovely faith messages all the way through.
A Time to Love, by Sally Laity ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Oregon, Summer 1898
Main characters: Eden and Dane
Dane took his brother's captain position after his brother drowned, which left Dane's sister-in-law and four children with debts and no income. WithDane captaining his brother's boat he would be able to pay the debts and provide for the family until she ever married again.
After Eden's husband died, she took on her husband’s co-lighthouse keeper position with the previous partner.
Sadly her husband had been the controlling type so she rarely met folks from town, and certainly never met ship captains. But when a captain coming into port by waved at her, then showed up to deliver a package, well, it wasn’t too long before she and Dane became good friends.
All in all, this book with six stories made for a good read. Maybe not enough character development, but the stories were short, so it’s to be expected.
February 7, 2015
The Lighthouse Brides Collection -6 authors short stories
I enjoyed reading the stories by these authors on Lighthouse keepers, ships,captains and ports along the way.
The women -the men and a few children made for great reading. We learn as we read and we get to see many places we would not otherwise see. If you like things nautical, the sea and Lighthouses you are going to love each and every story put into this collection...I did.
I enjoyed reading the stories by these authors on Lighthouse keepers, ships,captains and ports along the way.
The women -the men and a few children made for great reading. We learn as we read and we get to see many places we would not otherwise see. If you like things nautical, the sea and Lighthouses you are going to love each and every story put into this collection...I did.
June 24, 2019
This compilation of stories was my favorite so far. The characters were realistic and heartfelt. The stories captivated my attention. Lighthouses rule!
August 12, 2020
This is a job I don't think I could handle, not only is it hard but it's pretty lonely too. These are six very enjoyable stories that let you know even though it's a hard life, the lighthouse keepers love what they do and have true dedication as well as faith in God.
October 5, 2018
The problem with reading a book filled with many different stories is that you then have to give that one book an overall rating. In my opinion, some of the stories deserved more than 3 stars and some deserved less. This collection would be great for those who are into predictable romance.
When Love Awaits- I simply couldn't get into this story and it was all because of the leading Scottish male character. Every single time I had to read a passage where he was talking, all I could think about was a pirate. It wasn't painted as an attractive character and he even goes so far as to get married in a kilt (the story explains why but still). It was just not a story for me.
Phantom of My Heart- the description of what this story was supposed to be does not match whatsoever. This was disappointing to me because I was expecting one type of story and seemingly got the opposite. I did enjoy the little bit of suspense that was in this particular story and there were a couple twists that made it less predictable. Despite that though, this story rubbed me the wrong way because of some of the things that were said about grief, that I believe to be both inconsiderate and inaccurate.
Beacon in the Storm- This was a good story overall, perhaps the best one in this collection. I was left unsettled with the ending though. What becomes of the lighthouse?!?! You can't focus on the lighthouse for most of the story and then just leave it hanging like that.
Safe Harbor- Really great story and most certainly would be in competition for the best one in this collection. I adored the banter between the main characters. I immediately fell in love with the entire family and felt myself rooting for them from the very beginning. Well done!
Whispers Across the Blue- This was also a pretty good story overall. It wasn't the predictable boy meets girl and they fall in love and get married. Instead, this couple was already together and they had to face different obstacles. It was a nice break up of monotony in this collection.
A Time to Love-Not the best but certainly not the worst! Overall predictable story BUT that's the theme of this collection and most likely if you are reading it, you already know that!
When Love Awaits- I simply couldn't get into this story and it was all because of the leading Scottish male character. Every single time I had to read a passage where he was talking, all I could think about was a pirate. It wasn't painted as an attractive character and he even goes so far as to get married in a kilt (the story explains why but still). It was just not a story for me.
Phantom of My Heart- the description of what this story was supposed to be does not match whatsoever. This was disappointing to me because I was expecting one type of story and seemingly got the opposite. I did enjoy the little bit of suspense that was in this particular story and there were a couple twists that made it less predictable. Despite that though, this story rubbed me the wrong way because of some of the things that were said about grief, that I believe to be both inconsiderate and inaccurate.
Beacon in the Storm- This was a good story overall, perhaps the best one in this collection. I was left unsettled with the ending though. What becomes of the lighthouse?!?! You can't focus on the lighthouse for most of the story and then just leave it hanging like that.
Safe Harbor- Really great story and most certainly would be in competition for the best one in this collection. I adored the banter between the main characters. I immediately fell in love with the entire family and felt myself rooting for them from the very beginning. Well done!
Whispers Across the Blue- This was also a pretty good story overall. It wasn't the predictable boy meets girl and they fall in love and get married. Instead, this couple was already together and they had to face different obstacles. It was a nice break up of monotony in this collection.
A Time to Love-Not the best but certainly not the worst! Overall predictable story BUT that's the theme of this collection and most likely if you are reading it, you already know that!
August 6, 2020
A collection of stories that were scattered across the country, set in diff lighthouses. They did all have the same basic storyline. Usually a damsel in at least a bit of distress and the handsome man who comes to her rescue. I do never tire of those tried and true romance storylines. They had interesting characters and for such a short story each author did a good job (for me) of letting you know the characters - characteristics, fears and dreams. I greatly enjoyed it.
March 13, 2018
If you like lighthouses and historical romance, you'll like this book. The stories are well written and well developed. I think they are different enough to be enjoyed. The life of a lighthouse keeper was one of solitude, and women were rarely put in charge. But this book adds a slant to that life that is to be embraced.
February 23, 2018
My favorite novellas were probably the last four: A Beacon in the Storm, Safe Harbor, Whispers across the Blue, and A Time to Love. I enjoyed the characters in these four more than I did in the other two.
December 3, 2018
I liked some of these stories better than others, but overall, I enjoyed the collection. I haven't read a lot of stories set at lighthouse, so I found those details very interesting. These stories were very sweet. I always enjoy Barbour Publishing's novella collections, and this was no exception.
April 10, 2019
I loved this collection of stories. The stories are long enough to be entertaining but not so long they are boring. The descriptive words lead to believable surroundings & characters & their conversations. This collection could be read by anyone!
June 22, 2021
The stories in this book are simply amazing!! Has great history and of course great romance. From rescuing damsels in distress to a woman feeling unworthy because of past mistakes this book is great for encouragement and entertainment!!
July 15, 2018
I always enjoy these collections. They make for light reads in between the main ones I do
February 24, 2019
I read the six stories in this book at my leisure between other books I was reading. All six romances involved historic lighthouses. Good Christian stories are a pleasure to read!
April 20, 2020
Great stories
Stories are well written and totally enjoyable! Love the lighthouse settings of the book as I dearly love lighthouses myself!
Stories are well written and totally enjoyable! Love the lighthouse settings of the book as I dearly love lighthouses myself!
April 17, 2021
These authors did a magnificent job! Every story was delightful and I wouldn't be able to pick a favorite. It was impossible to put down until I would reach the end of a story.
July 4, 2022
Delightful collection of stories about lighthouse keepers and love. Enjoyed them all.
October 7, 2022
Easy read. Enjoyable
July 22, 2023
This was a better book than I thought it would be, the 6 stories were good!
October 27, 2024
Sweet stories.
March 2, 2017
One star. Unrealistic. Uninspiring. Uncreative. 'A Beacon in the Storm' was the best one, and even then, it was extremely predictable, immediately obvious who she is going to fall in love with before they even meet. And they always fall in love within a few days. Unrealistic 'romance.' Never got to know the characters, and they were kind of always the same as the one in the last book, they were all so PERFECT it was kind of aggravating. The guys were always 'handsome and kind' the ladies were always 'beautiful and sweet'. So not real life at all. And the story lines were pretty similar.
Not my kind of book. I will give it credit for the nice cover, and the time out into writing them.
Not my kind of book. I will give it credit for the nice cover, and the time out into writing them.
February 23, 2015
The Lighthouse Brides Collection
6 historic religious romances around lighthouse stations, 5 different authors.
When Love Awaits By Lynn Holman
1825 NC lighthouse. This one should be a good one, I can recall a Nicholas Sparks book about how one tends for a B&B during a hurricane on the outer banks.
Phoena is alone on the island and her parents are on the mainland for supplies. The hurricane is on its way and she knows what precautions she has to do.
She prays to God for safety for all as she goes about her chores. Love hearing of all the different lenses she needs to keep clean.
Love hearing of the wild ponies. Ian Duncan comes to visit and lend his knowledge and help. She wants to prove she can take care of the lighthouse herself and he keeps offering his help.
He goes to keep her company and they share the eye of the storm and compare it with passages from the Bible. She thinks her calling is at the light stations...
.
Phantom of My Heart by Diane Mills
1845 Bird Island, MA is haunted by one who died there. He finds poetry, flowers, etc now and hopes to find the woman of his dreams. He prays often.
.
A Beacon in the Storm by Andrea Bashhart
Amanda Lewis, North Point Light, MI light and she and her mother can't care for it longer and a man wants to do it now.
A ships captain shipwrecks and they spend the night with a crew member. The captain is staying on land now and confides in Amanda of his past wife and how he raises Jenny.
She tells Gabe she has to be married then she will retain the job of lightkeeper. Gabe and Jenny are interested in her ...She watches Jenny after school and he agrees to attend the hearing for her commission...
.
Safe Harbor by Paige Winship Doolee
Ian Morgan prays for a small boat, FL lighthouse.
Regan Steward and her daughter wash up on his shores.
He has many memories and never wants to leave the shore, he hears her with the kids and tells them of shopping in the city and misunderstandings happen.
They do continue to talk not only about God but their future lifes.
.
Whispers Across The Blue by Diane Mills
1875 Oliver Point, TX, Jewel hears her intended say it's his last ship voyage til their wedding.
Mason just has one more shipment to deliver. He wants his fathers approval and hopes to have his own shipment center one day.
He takes many risks when he sails. She doesn't like the control his father has over him but God has his own control.
.
A Time to Love by Sally Layatee
Cochille Light in Oregon, Rathcliff Rock
Eden is a recent widower and she takes over the care of the lighthouse with her 4year old son Christian. They also have a housekeeper. Sherman is one that helps when he doesn't have an emergency.
She meets the captain who sails by and he also has delivered supplies to them.
Dan has lost his brother and makes sure his wife and kids have all they need. In his travels he picks up items for Eden and her son, religious themed.
I received this book from Net Galley in exchange for my honest review.
6 historic religious romances around lighthouse stations, 5 different authors.
When Love Awaits By Lynn Holman
1825 NC lighthouse. This one should be a good one, I can recall a Nicholas Sparks book about how one tends for a B&B during a hurricane on the outer banks.
Phoena is alone on the island and her parents are on the mainland for supplies. The hurricane is on its way and she knows what precautions she has to do.
She prays to God for safety for all as she goes about her chores. Love hearing of all the different lenses she needs to keep clean.
Love hearing of the wild ponies. Ian Duncan comes to visit and lend his knowledge and help. She wants to prove she can take care of the lighthouse herself and he keeps offering his help.
He goes to keep her company and they share the eye of the storm and compare it with passages from the Bible. She thinks her calling is at the light stations...
.
Phantom of My Heart by Diane Mills
1845 Bird Island, MA is haunted by one who died there. He finds poetry, flowers, etc now and hopes to find the woman of his dreams. He prays often.
.
A Beacon in the Storm by Andrea Bashhart
Amanda Lewis, North Point Light, MI light and she and her mother can't care for it longer and a man wants to do it now.
A ships captain shipwrecks and they spend the night with a crew member. The captain is staying on land now and confides in Amanda of his past wife and how he raises Jenny.
She tells Gabe she has to be married then she will retain the job of lightkeeper. Gabe and Jenny are interested in her ...She watches Jenny after school and he agrees to attend the hearing for her commission...
.
Safe Harbor by Paige Winship Doolee
Ian Morgan prays for a small boat, FL lighthouse.
Regan Steward and her daughter wash up on his shores.
He has many memories and never wants to leave the shore, he hears her with the kids and tells them of shopping in the city and misunderstandings happen.
They do continue to talk not only about God but their future lifes.
.
Whispers Across The Blue by Diane Mills
1875 Oliver Point, TX, Jewel hears her intended say it's his last ship voyage til their wedding.
Mason just has one more shipment to deliver. He wants his fathers approval and hopes to have his own shipment center one day.
He takes many risks when he sails. She doesn't like the control his father has over him but God has his own control.
.
A Time to Love by Sally Layatee
Cochille Light in Oregon, Rathcliff Rock
Eden is a recent widower and she takes over the care of the lighthouse with her 4year old son Christian. They also have a housekeeper. Sherman is one that helps when he doesn't have an emergency.
She meets the captain who sails by and he also has delivered supplies to them.
Dan has lost his brother and makes sure his wife and kids have all they need. In his travels he picks up items for Eden and her son, religious themed.
I received this book from Net Galley in exchange for my honest review.
August 27, 2018
When Love Awaits by Lynn A. Coleman
When Love Awaits is a sweet romance with a bit of natural disaster suspense. Fiona is a sweet girl that hides behind an abrasive personality and Ian is an open Christ-centered man who's in love with her. It was an interesting read but I didn't enjoy it because he was too set on her without really knowing her, plus it was a bit steamier than I prefer. It just didn't work for me.
B
16+
Ocracroke Island, North Carolina, 1825
Phantom of My Heart by DiAnn Mills
I LOVED Phantom of My Heart. This was a fun but suspenseful tale of romance and evil. A change from the usual, not steamy, but romantic and looking for God's will.
A
16+
Bird Island Massachusetts 1845
A Beacon in the Storm by Andrea Boesharr
I really enjoyed A Beacon in the Storm. This was a sweet romance. I loved the characters and the slow fun pace of the romance.
A
16+
Nov 1868, North Point Light, Milwaukee Wisconsin
Safe Harbor by Paige Winship Dooly
Safe Harbor is an amazing novella. I absolutely loved the plot, characters, and scenery. It so intrigued me, I looked it up and learned more about its history and imagined the story taking place as I perused.
A
16+
St. Mark's Lighthouse Forgotten Coast Florida 1883
Whispers Across the Blue by DiAnn Mills
My absolute favorite passage (Psalm 121) is featured in Whispers Across the Blue, so how could I not love it?
Reliance on God and humility are two of the greatest lessons in this sweet romance. It's a terrific novella and absolutely one that should go on your read list even if you don't read the rest of this set.
A
16+
1875 Bolivar Point, Galveston Texas
A Time to Love by Sally Laity
This was a much more emotional and less light tale. I enjoyed it, but not.
C
16+
1898 Coquille River Light, Brandon Oregon
When Love Awaits is a sweet romance with a bit of natural disaster suspense. Fiona is a sweet girl that hides behind an abrasive personality and Ian is an open Christ-centered man who's in love with her. It was an interesting read but I didn't enjoy it because he was too set on her without really knowing her, plus it was a bit steamier than I prefer. It just didn't work for me.
B
16+
Ocracroke Island, North Carolina, 1825
Phantom of My Heart by DiAnn Mills
I LOVED Phantom of My Heart. This was a fun but suspenseful tale of romance and evil. A change from the usual, not steamy, but romantic and looking for God's will.
A
16+
Bird Island Massachusetts 1845
A Beacon in the Storm by Andrea Boesharr
I really enjoyed A Beacon in the Storm. This was a sweet romance. I loved the characters and the slow fun pace of the romance.
A
16+
Nov 1868, North Point Light, Milwaukee Wisconsin
Safe Harbor by Paige Winship Dooly
Safe Harbor is an amazing novella. I absolutely loved the plot, characters, and scenery. It so intrigued me, I looked it up and learned more about its history and imagined the story taking place as I perused.
A
16+
St. Mark's Lighthouse Forgotten Coast Florida 1883
Whispers Across the Blue by DiAnn Mills
My absolute favorite passage (Psalm 121) is featured in Whispers Across the Blue, so how could I not love it?
Reliance on God and humility are two of the greatest lessons in this sweet romance. It's a terrific novella and absolutely one that should go on your read list even if you don't read the rest of this set.
A
16+
1875 Bolivar Point, Galveston Texas
A Time to Love by Sally Laity
This was a much more emotional and less light tale. I enjoyed it, but not.
C
16+
1898 Coquille River Light, Brandon Oregon
October 9, 2013
MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK
Another wonderful Brides Collection from Barbour Books. This one is The Lighthouse Brides Collection, with combines six stories from six awesome authors. Each story setting is at one of six historical American lighthouses, a romantic setting indeed! The stories in this edition are:
When Love Awaits by Lynn A. Coleman
Phantom of My Heart by DiAnn Mills
A Beacon in the Storm by Andrea Boesharr
Safe Harbor by Paige WInship Dooly
Whispers Across the Blue by DiAnn Mills
A Time to Love by Sally Laity
Since I love lighthouses, I enjoyed reading about the setting of each of these lighthouses. The details of the area was interesting and the romance was heartwarming for each in its own way! I really don’t want to pick a favorite, because they all had something special that I enjoyed and appreciated. A Couple of these authors were new to me, and I always enjoy meeting new authors. The main thing I like about these collections is that I can pick up the book and read just one story because they are not connected, you don’t have to read the entire book at one time.
The Lighthouse Brides Collection not only gives you wonderful heartwarming stories, you are getting an awesome book to display in your home. The inside and outside of the front and back covers are more than beautiful and I love the ragged pages. This is a high quality book so it would also make a wonderful gift for someone special. I really encourage you to pick up a copy for your entertainment. If you don’t have time for full books, this is an awesome alternative for you.
I received this book from the publisher Barbour Books to read and review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 55
January 25, 2020
I picked up this book on a whim, and was drawn to both the topic and unabashedly the cover as well. Having been familiar with a couple of the authors before, I figured it would be an interesting book to try. As an historical fiction novel woven with spirituality, it was an engaging, light-hearted, and interested book, and I wasn't disappointed! Each author's novella was somewhat different in style, yet they all blended together harmoniously.
As far as lighthouses go, I've always admired their stately beauty along the Eastern seaboard, and many of my favorite books and movies have lighthouses in them. So when I had the chance to read short stories that take place in historic light stations, I was intrigued. The work it took to maintain them, the lives of the men and women who did so, and what it meant to the seafarers who used their light to guide them to safety was fascinating. I liked that within each story, there were strong feminine characters whose backgrounds and locales were vastly different, and yet they all faced similar societal issues for the time period, which happens to be about 20-30 days before the era in which I'm currently writing in my own series of books. When I'm not writing, I love to surround myself with other works of fiction that help unclutter my mind, while giving me food for thought. This collection was just the diversion I needed!
As far as lighthouses go, I've always admired their stately beauty along the Eastern seaboard, and many of my favorite books and movies have lighthouses in them. So when I had the chance to read short stories that take place in historic light stations, I was intrigued. The work it took to maintain them, the lives of the men and women who did so, and what it meant to the seafarers who used their light to guide them to safety was fascinating. I liked that within each story, there were strong feminine characters whose backgrounds and locales were vastly different, and yet they all faced similar societal issues for the time period, which happens to be about 20-30 days before the era in which I'm currently writing in my own series of books. When I'm not writing, I love to surround myself with other works of fiction that help unclutter my mind, while giving me food for thought. This collection was just the diversion I needed!
September 22, 2013
I liked the stories in this compilation. Normally when I pick up a book with multiple stories I expect them to be at least partially related. That is not the case here, which is mentioned in the complete title...
Anyway, I love lighthouses and that is part of the reason I wanted to read this one. The men and women who tended lighthouses were made from some strong stuff. I think that the second story was my favorite. It was interesting to see how Lynette dealt with her grief, and the mystery of the "ghost" was unexpected.
Each couple had a strong enough connection as to be believable which can be difficult given the short story format. I found something to love about each story and was happy to have read this collection.
I received an ARC via Netgalley in return for an honest review.
Anyway, I love lighthouses and that is part of the reason I wanted to read this one. The men and women who tended lighthouses were made from some strong stuff. I think that the second story was my favorite. It was interesting to see how Lynette dealt with her grief, and the mystery of the "ghost" was unexpected.
Each couple had a strong enough connection as to be believable which can be difficult given the short story format. I found something to love about each story and was happy to have read this collection.
I received an ARC via Netgalley in return for an honest review.
October 25, 2013
Lighthouse Brides Collection
These 6-in-1 historical romances made me long for ocean and the calming sound of waves rushing to the beach. Each of these stories had very fragile and yet very strong women fighting the elements and the hardships of this world to bring a beacon of light to the dear lonely sailors stuck out there on the water. This collection is a perfect mix of mystery, comedy, drama, suspense and a whole emotional rollercoaster. I really liked each story the dilemma these woman were stuck in and their “prince on a white boat” coming to save them. I loved how Authors managed to spin a short story into such an active and not rushing love story. Get it, read it, and have fun sailing from lighthouse to lighthouse.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book from Barbour Publishing, through NetGalley, in exchange for my honest opinion.
These 6-in-1 historical romances made me long for ocean and the calming sound of waves rushing to the beach. Each of these stories had very fragile and yet very strong women fighting the elements and the hardships of this world to bring a beacon of light to the dear lonely sailors stuck out there on the water. This collection is a perfect mix of mystery, comedy, drama, suspense and a whole emotional rollercoaster. I really liked each story the dilemma these woman were stuck in and their “prince on a white boat” coming to save them. I loved how Authors managed to spin a short story into such an active and not rushing love story. Get it, read it, and have fun sailing from lighthouse to lighthouse.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book from Barbour Publishing, through NetGalley, in exchange for my honest opinion.
January 12, 2014
My Thoughts On The Book: Since I love lighthouses and have always wanted to be a volunteer lighthouse keeper, I thought I would enjoy reading about the setting of each of these lighthouses. The details in each story of the area were interesting and the romance was heartwarming for each in its own way! I have to admit that the Lighthouse Brides Collection was disappointing in that each author seemed to just abruptly end the story and none of them seemed complete to me.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book from Barbour Publishing and Net Galley.com. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book from Barbour Publishing and Net Galley.com. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*
April 15, 2015
This book took me waaaay too long to read. I purchased this through a book club because I LOVE lighthouses and thought that I would enjoy stories about the lives (and loves) of the lighthouse keepers. That was not the case. I don't know if it is because it was an anthology, and therefore, each contributing author was given a set guideline and number of pages/words, but none of the stories seemed "fleshed out" enough and basically, it was the same story, told over again, just in different locales. Also, the fact that all of the stories were set in the 1800s didn't really appeal to me. I understand that setting the stories in that time period made them historically correct, but it also made them kind of boring. Just my opinion. I passed the book on to my (73 yo) mother. Maybe she will enjoy it more.
August 28, 2013
My thoughts:
A great collection for stories and lighthouses. I enjoyed all the stories they were remarkably well done. I can not pinpoint one I like over the others as I loved them all. We knew woman could be lighthouse keepers too back in the day and find romance. That was the best part about some of these stories. Women had a more active role than just sitting back and having the men take care of them.
Thank you to NetGalley for allowing me to read this book for an honest review.
A great collection for stories and lighthouses. I enjoyed all the stories they were remarkably well done. I can not pinpoint one I like over the others as I loved them all. We knew woman could be lighthouse keepers too back in the day and find romance. That was the best part about some of these stories. Women had a more active role than just sitting back and having the men take care of them.
Thank you to NetGalley for allowing me to read this book for an honest review.
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