Christmas by the Lighthouse

Summer is floored when her husband announces he wants a separation. Confused and heart broken, she flees to seaside Jersey for 6 months where she’s shocked to discover that being on her own isn’t as difficult as she thought it would be. She’s starting to enjoy herself when she meets Jude, a kind and gentle man dealing with heartbreak of his own. The two are drawn together and Summer begins to wonder if they might have a future together when disaster threatens

I absolutely love Christmas stories and this definitely satisfied my need for a Christmas romance. Highly recommend.

⭐️Book Review ⭐️
Christmas by the Lighthouse by Rebecca Boxall
4/5 Stars

**I received this book as an ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.**

Holiday love stories are some of my favorite romance novels to read. This story did not disappoint. It was a quick read and put a new spin on Christmas in July when I was reading in the 85 degree heat in Chicago this afternoon! Loved the cover and drew me in instantly.

Summer is a journalist and seems to find the good in everything all the time. This may be the first time she can’t. Summer is devastated when her husband wants to ‘take a break’ from their marriage. So she leaves quickly to the Jersey shore for the six months he’s requested.

Summer settles into her life at the beach, enjoys herself and this life alone. Enter Jude. Jude is kind, caring, gentle and carrying his own devastating heartbreak. When they spend time together, problems melt away.

Could Summer and Jude have a future together? Can they weather another disaster together?

A perfect Christmas story, full of emotions and heartwarming.
I loved the cast of the characters, the atmosphere and the setting.
Highly recommended!
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine.

i really liked the two main characters Jude and Summer. After giving up teaching Jude finds himself in a job he doesn't enjoy and his life changes dramatically when he hands in his notice. Summer is the wife of a headmaster and is devastated when her husband wants a six month break in their marriage. She moves to Jersey and starts to enjoy the single life when an incident at the airport throws Summer and Jude together. Summer is a kind and caring person who helps Jude through a difficulty few months.

This book is beautifully written with love, sadness and new beginnings. I enjoyed it from the first page to the last. This is the first book I have read by Rebecca Boxall but I can't wait to read more.

This was such a delightful read!

This novel involves two people - Summer and Jude - who are a bit adrift after devastating news for each of them. The story is told in alternating points of view alternating from Summer to Jude and back again. I really enjoyed this detail as often these kinds of novels are only told from the heroine's POV so it was a nice change to also 'hear' the hero's POV as well.

The part that doesn't sell for me is this book as a Christmas Novel. Sure, Christmas happens during the novel but if you're looking for a sweet book with Christmas being the featured part of the story this isn't it. I know it's weird but there's times that I go on Christmas book binges so this would have slightly annoyed me had I bought it banking on it being about the Christmas season. Definitely does not take away form the novel in the least but I wanted to put this disclaimer out there just in case.

Overall this was a very quickly paced novel that while a slight bit predictable was still intriguing enough to keep me tuned in. I adore both Summer and Jude and would read further novels that involved them!

Thank you to NetGalley and Amazon Publishing UK for the eARC copy of the novel in exchange for my honest review.

This book has it all. You can feel the sand beneath your feet as you walk on the Jersey beach. About finding yourself in life no matter what it takes. Sadness, love, and happiness and a great Christmas story. What more could you want.

Loved the character's of Summer and Jude,a light romantic novel,can they overcome disaster to find true love.

A quick, entertaining read, despite featuring a wounded hero with very serious issues, “Christmas at the Lighthouse” balances between a light, humorous tone, helped by a nurturing, optimistic heroine and the Jersey Island getaway setting, and darker, more dramatic tones, due to said looming ticking clock.
Perhaps Jude’s earlier indifference felt a bit odd, but I liked watching him shake the monotony of a “beige existence” and easily fall for Summer, the right heroine, at the right place and time.
There were a lot of secondary characters strategically making the romantic couple’s life so much easier, and their HEA includes not a miracle cure but a credible treatment, even if some questions remain kindly unaddressed.

An emotional read, the story of Summer and Jude

They meet when she is on a break - her husbands choice. Summer moves to Jersey for 6 months and after a switched suitcase incident meets Jude. They soon fall for each other, but he is ill with not long left to live.

This is the first book I've read for this author and I immediately got into the book from the very first page and this is an author I'll be reading again I truly love this story..
I was totally Blown Away by Seth deciding he needed 6 months separation because he needed to find himself I mean who does that in a marriage I guess that's just life so summer goes and lives on the Beach.
And then there's Jude who works at the bank and he gets a really bad headache one day worse than he's ever had and he has to go to the doctor to find out what the results are but I don't want to tell more about this book because it's that good and I think everyone should read it I found this book to be really amazing and one I absolutely could not put down I know a lot of people say that about books but that is true about this story.... I would like to thank the author for writing this book it was a wonderful story so pick up your copy when it comes out and give it a read the author did a wonderful job..
I absolutely Loved this Book..Thank you...

I loved this book and the tear jerker of a twist that keeps you hooked. I really hope there is a second part.

This is a well written book that holds your attention. It is a tearjerker so have a box of tissue close. Thank you Amazon Publishing UK via NetGalley for the ARC copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.

Christmas by The Lighthouse by Rebecca Boxall a five-star read that will light up your life. I loved the alternating POV of this story, Summer and Jude both had great sides to them, they are both such complex characters, but they bring the story and the setting of Jersey to life. I was right there with Summer when her husband devastates her, you feel her pain and anguish. As well as Jude his story is a hard one at times, but you need to find that one as you read. I love a good Christmas story, and even though this isn’t truly a Christmas story, it just happens to be set at Christmas really, it still has enough of the sparkle to make it great.

Wow, this is quite the journey of Jude and Summer. Summer's husband Seth tells her he wants a 6-month break from their marriage and she decides to go to Jersey for the six months because her aunt has a cottage there. She doesn't understand the reason why her husband all of a sudden wants a break but stays positive. They agree not to contact each other for the six months. After arriving in Jersey she discovers she took the wrong suitcase at the airport. Jude, who has just learned he has a brain tumor and was given a year to live also had the wrong suitcase. His friend was a reporter and she reported on the story and Summer say it on the news. The two get together to exchange suitcases but discover an instant attraction to each other. Jude was looking for a place to stay by the sea and Summer invited him to live with her.
They start working on Jude's bucket list. The book shares their adventures, the things they learn and the ups and downs, and twist and turns of their lives. This is the first book I have read by this author but I am going to check out her other books because I enjoyed this one so much. Knowing this one was Christmas by the Lighthouse, I hoped that things would work out for Summer and Jude and there would be a miracle. But I am not saying if it happened because this book is a wonderful book to read and I want you to enjoy it as much as I did. I think telling you if it happened or not would take away from the experience of reading it yourself. so grab the book and enjoy the reading. Thank you, NetGalley for the ARC.

Heartbreaking, yet tender passion flows like a river in this book with easy to relate to characters that make you undoubtedly say, what if this was me? What would I do? Lyrical, rhythmic plot gives this story a 5/5 stars from me for allowing to me to think of the what if’s that we often don’t ponder in this life.

Summer has been married to Seth for over 20 years. They have twins Luke and Levi then Seth decides he wants a 6 month break which is devastating for Summer. She goes to Jersey where she meets. Jude. Jude feels his life is boring and he can't get out of a rut. He then is given devastating news.

What a lovely quick read devoured in one sitting!
This book chronicles the lives of Jude and summer, Jude’s husband surprises her with the news that he wants a six month break from their marriage so she decamps to her aunts cottage in jersey,Jude is stuck in a dead end job and bored with life in general when he gets devastating life changing news. Unexpectedly their paths cross and what could be a depressing difficult time for them both turns into a magical time of discovery,love and happiness! Despite a few ups and downs along the way this books delivers a delightful happy ever after ending a perfect feel good read that I would highly recommend.
Thank you net galley for this advance copy

Beautiful book, I absolutely loved this title, so much that I had to buy the other book in the series! Such a lovely story!

A perfect Christmassy story that is heartwarming and very well written. Really enjoyed it but beware it is most definitely a tear jerker!

A powerfully, poignant tale of finding yourself. I'm tempted to say "in light of circumstances", but it would perhaps be more honest to say "because of circumstances." Summer and Jude both find themselves in a unique opportunity to redefine who they are and who they want to be be going forward. An emotional story of finding the one you love and stopping at nothing to achieve your happy ever after. A new to me author and I was delighted at taking the chance. I didn't necessarily get the warm, fuzzy, Christmas vibe many Christmas stories provide, but I did get a satisfying, overall clean, love story with a beautiful backdrop and characters who pulled me in from page one.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

What an easy, feel good book to read. A hugely random meeting between summer and Jude in Jersey turns into a beautiful love story. Jude is suddenly having to embrace every minute of his life following life changing news. However the random meeting of summer, who is taking a marriage break, leads to a deep relationship and grasping living life to the full.
A really l9vely read that is not too Christmasy and can be read at any time of the year.

Even though I read this book in July, the Christmas theme was not overwhelming and did not hinder my reading in the middle of summer. Although the story begins with sadness and brokenness, you will begin to feel the joy and warmth of the story as you keep reading. I wasn't really sure what to expect and I was pleasantly surprised by the beauty in the midst of the sad. It's an overall clean romance but just to note, one of the characters is still married and in a broken marriage while embarking on another relationship. There are a few twists in the story that I wasn't expecting. Overall, I enjoyed this quick read that isn't really about Christmas at all.  

If you are looking for a Christmas read, this would probably not be the one for you. But, if you are a Nicholas Sparks fan, you will enjoy this read anytime of year.

This is an entertaining book but lacked depth.
The pace of the book was good but the writing style was average- nothing special
The characters lacked depth and were not easy to engage with.
An ok book

If you like books that have little to no conflict and everything resolves relatively easily, you'll enjoy this book. Unfortunately, that isn't for me. I knew this would be a light, fluffy book since I only chose it for the Christmas theme but only about 2% of this book takes place during Christmas, so I found the title slightly misleading. I didn't particularly enjoy any of the characters, but the setting was nice and made me want to visit. It's heavy on the mushy romance, but mostly just completely and totally unbelievable. Jude has an inoperable brain tumor, Summer's husband wants a marital break. They both end up confusing their luggage at the airport and this is what brings them together. I did enjoy that idea for a meeting, but other than that this was just too much happy romance that felt entirely too convenient for me. But if you read books so that you're not challenged and just want a happy ending, then you'll really enjoy this!

A delightfully enjoyable tale of love found. Heartbreaking in places but warm and uplifting in others.
The characters are easy to like, there is not a bad bone between them. This is a book to make you wonder about the fates and just what could be. In its own way a modern day fairy tale.

Received an advanced copy from NetGalley for a fair review.

The story starts off with two characters whose individual lives are in a bit of decline. Their paths cross in a lovely meet-cute way. They have a wonderful love story. A very quaint lovely read.

I was looking for more “Christmas”. When I chose to read this book I was hoping for a Hallmark Christmas type novel, however the Christmas feel was lacking.

Lovely feel good read. It was well written and flowed well. I enjoyed it very much. The plot was good and interesting. Hard to put down

A book with an unusual storyline: a sweet tale of love, loss, and illness. I did enjoy reading this book but was bracing myself for an unhappy ending throughout. Won’t spoil things by saying whether or not that happened. Not very Christmassy although Christmas did feature,

Summer headed to Jersey to stay in Aunt Sylvie’s cottage “Mandla” after the shock announcement by her husband of twenty years, Seth, who wanted a six-month break from their marriage. Summer realized she felt relief, not grief and her twin sons weren’t surprised as they’d been able to see Summer wasn’t happy. The view from the cottage was magnificent; the Corbière Lighthouse sparkled in the sunlight. She felt she could be happy there for the six months she was staying.

Jude had been working in a dead-end job for the past four years since being stabbed by a student at the school he’d taught in. His normal workday changed when he received devastating news – after a few days he resigned from his job, determined to enjoy life while he could. Then, through a set of circumstances, Summer and Jude met, and it wasn’t long before their lives changed. Summer encouraged Jude to work through the bucket list he’d recently written; they grew close, walking together, watching sunsets by the lighthouse, being in the moment. And then there was Prinny, the dog they rescued that no one else wanted. But could their happiness last?

Christmas by the Lighthouse by Rebecca Boxall is a heartwarming, delightful story of hope, love and loss – and taking chances. Prinny the labrador was adorable while both Seth and Summer were great characters. I’ve only read one previously by this author but have two others waiting in the wing which I’m pleased about. Exceptionally well written, I have no hesitation in recommending Christmas by the Lighthouse highly.

With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.

My goodness, this was such a lovely book!

Jude and Summer meet, the most unlikely of pairings ensues, but somehow it just works and a charming story is woven around the two of them. Don't get me wrong, it has its moments when you just want to yell at the characters to stop being stupid or you wish things were different, but that is the beauty of this book. Romantic without being soppy; heartfelt and spontaneous were also words I would apply to it. It has me thinking a great deal about what is important in life, that's for sure.

As well as the main characters, the secondary characters were also beautifully written; I particularly liked the descriptions of Helena from Jude's work, and bombastic Dennis. I could visualise all of them, this author has a great gift for describing her characters very well indeed.

Highly recommended book.

5 stars from me.

Thank you to NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing.

The story itself is emotional, but the telling stays clear of sentimentality. Two very unlike people meet at a low time for each of them and forge an immediate bond that circumstances dictate will be temporary. As expectations change, fears and responsibilities pull them apart. I liked that we were given enough backstory for each of the lead characters before they met to enjoy the plot driven character development that is spread throughout the story.
I requested and voluntarily read an advanced review copy provided by Netgalley and I offer my honest opinion in response.

Thank you for the opportunity to read this book! I thoroughly enjoyed it and can’t wait to follow along with more stories in this town.

Is there anything better than a perfect Christmas romance? Loved this one! Highly recommend!

Many thanks to Netgalley, the author, and the publisher. All opinions are my own.

This was a heartwarming story of love, grief, loss, hope and enjoying each day to the fullest. I loved the characters and found myself pulling for them throughout the book. The story was a reminder to me of what is important in my life.
Many thanks to Amazon Publishing UK and to NetGalley for providing me with a galley in exchange for my honest opinion.

Christmas by the Lighthouse by Rebecca Boxall is a beautiful love story. Sometimes when people separate from others good things happen to make them find someone else that is special. A miracle occurs with this story. This Christmas story could be read year round read.

Thanks to netgalley for an early copy in return for an honest review
First time reading this Author and thoroughly enjoyed this FANTASTIC book
The title made sense in the end. A warm inviting atmospheric story NEVER give up on your dreams when life gets hard
I just utterly loved this OUTSTANDING book and can highly recommend.

Summer is living a pretty normal, busy life with her husband Seth and their 2 grown up children. When out of the blue Seth decides they need a 6 month break from their marriage! Summer is shocked but soon see’s it as a chance to break away from the norm and make the most of some time alone. She decides to spend her 6 months at her Aunts cottage in Jersey. This is where unexpectedly her paths cross with Jude. Jude has been stuck in a job he doesn’t really like, no partner, no kids etc... However after receiving some devastating news he decides it’s time to live a little, so meeting Summer comes just at the right and kind of the wrong time!
The book takes you on the journey of their beautiful relationship as it develops quite quickly and will have you routing for them as a couple. But what happens at the end of the 6 month break? Will Summers love for Jude still be strong or will she discover old feelings for Seth and return home?

I devoured this book in one weekend! What a lovely (emotional at times) romance novel. I found it so easy to read and hard to put down. The setting for this book is just perfect. I’ve not been to the Channel Islands but lived on the Isles of Scilly for 3 years so it was really easy for me to imagine how beautiful Jersey must be. This would be perfect to read this winter whilst curled up by the fire.

Thank you to Net Galley, Rebecca Boxall & Amazon Publishing for the ARC of this book 📖

Book Description-
Happy-go-lucky journalist Summer has always managed to focus on the silver lining. But nothing in her life has prepared her for her husband Seth’s recent revelation: he wants a six-month break from their marriage.

Determined to stay positive, Summer decamps to Jersey to spend six months by the sea, where every passing week makes Seth more of a distant memory. Then she meets sweet, charming Jude, whose life seems to be on permanent hold even before he receives devastating news of his own. To both of them, their chance encounter feels like fate, and with Summer’s encouragement Jude embarks on a bucket list of experiences that seem to bond them for life.

When they’re together, the world is alive with possibilities, but as Christmas approaches, their time is running out in more ways than one. Will they return to the lives they left behind – or take a chance on an unknown future?

Happy-go-lucky journalist Summer has always managed to focus on the silver lining. But nothing in her life has prepared her for her husband Seth’s recent revelation: he wants a six-month break from their marriage.

Determined to stay positive, Summer decamps to Jersey to spend six months by the sea, where every passing week makes Seth more of a distant memory. Then she meets sweet, charming Jude, whose life seems to be on permanent hold even before he receives devastating news of his own. To both of them, their chance encounter feels like fate, and with Summer’s encouragement Jude embarks on a bucket list of experiences that seem to bond them for life.

When they’re together, the world is alive with possibilities, but as Christmas approaches, their time is running out in more ways than one. Will they return to the lives they left behind – or take a chance on an unknown future?

Story full of love and romance which makes it perfect Christmas read.

Up front, this isn't really a Christmas novel but it's a lovely story. Summer's on a 6 month break with Seth, her husband of 20 years. She's also surprised to discover that this doesn't bother her that much. A chance mistake with suitcases brings her in contact with Jude, who's just been diagnosed with a brain tumor and given not long to live. This doesn't start as a romance but rather a story of two friends who work their way through one's bucket list. There's not big drama and there's lot of chuckle spots. There's also no easy answers. Thanks to net galley for the ARC. A good read.

Thanks to netgalley for a chance to read this book.

When Summers husband asks for a six-month break from their marriage she takes herself to Jersey to stay in her aunts cottage by the sea. She meets Jude after taking the wrong suitcase at the airport. Jude has just been diagnosed with a terminal brain tumour and has just a year to live.
Read this book to find out what happens to them both.

My first time reading a book by this author and it certainly won’t be the last. What a brilliant book, couldn’t put it down had to keep reading to find out what happened.

I have never read a book by this author. I liked the description and the cover so I requested it on Netgalley and was pleasantly surprised when they allowed me to read it. These are my opinions.

The description was of starting over or adjusting positively to change. I found it uplifting. I like how the two main characters meet, adapt to their changing life and find a positive outlook on circumstances. No one likes to be adrift as Christmas approaches but it does happen. I’m glad this really didn’t dwell on lonely people working through the Christmas holiday. It was about working through life.

It was different then what I normally read but I enjoyed it none the less.

I recommend this book as an uplifting change of life story.

CHRISTMAS BY THE LIGHTHOUSE is a story that will take you on an emotional rollercoaster ride from devastation to utter joy, and everything in-between as well. The basics of the story can be found in the Cover Description, yet although that will tempt you, and have you picking up this book what you don’t find there are the emotions, the strength of two people who have had their worlds tilted and now need to re-think, readjust to a far different reality than they once knew.

Because I do not want to give much away I will say that I found myself asking questions throughout the reading of Summer’s and Jude’s story. “What would I do?” “How would I react?” “Can it be possible to find true happiness in the middle of heartache?” You will think throughout CHRISTMAS BY THE LIGHTHOUSE and will come up with your own unique reactions as to what you would do in similar circumstances.

The story itself is endearing, if at times heartbreaking. The writing flowed for me and I easily found myself in a world that has drastically changed without my consent. I liked Summer and Jude both as a couple and individually. Of course, there are bumps in the road but they handled those things in a realistic way. I adored a pup that no one seems to want except for this couple, and finding that forever home for human and canine is the absolute best feeling possible. There is a solution that was believable for me, and that “believable” is important in my acceptance of what these two people are facing individually and as a couple. I enjoyed myself in this world and would not hesitate to recommend CHRISTMAS BY THE LIGHTHOUSE as a Christmas Romance or a story that could be relevant at any time of the year.

*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*

I really enjoyed this book. It is set in the beautiful west coast ofJersey. It starts with a man not living a whole life, just work, eat, sleep and repeat, we can all relate to that.
Then with the usual deft twists of the plot, things turn around and he has everything to live for.
Then with another twist he now has everything to lose.
This is a beautiful story of life, love and not giving up. You never know when something good is just around the corner or when the reverse might happen too. The characters and place are all well described and I read the book in two sittings because I couldn’t wait to know what happens in the end. (Spoiler alert) Rest assured further plot twists leave everything on a good footing at the end.

Summer has always put her husband first, so she's completely unprepared when he asked for a six-month break from their marriage. Even so, she embraces the newfound time to herself by hopping off to Jersey for a relaxing vacation by the sea. However, after a luggage mix-up, she meets the utterly charming Jude, who's also processing his own shocking news. Yet their chance meeting might be the best thing that's ever happened to them, as soon they're off creating memories to last a lifetime.

Author Rebecca Boxall has crafted a profoundly heartwarming story. Both Summer and Jude are introduced at their lowest points: Summer is on a break from her husband and Jude has been diagnosed with a terminal brain tumor. They're both seeking the same thing: relief— from mundane jobs, family drama, and an overwhelming sense of the ordinary. And while the circumstances that propel them to meet might skew to the extreme, this basic driving force is relatable. Fortunately, they find comfort in each other, and the result is an adventure that takes them from one excitement to the next.

Even with such heavy subject matter, Boxall manages to keep the story relatively light. She doesn't gloss over the hardships her characters face, but rather, her focus is on comfort. Summer talks about her crumbling relationship and Jude talks about treatment and his acceptance of the inevitable end. However, they don't dwell, and instead are spurred toward the fun and pleasant parts of life. And with an enchanting seaside town for a backdrop, there are plenty of activities to enjoy. The result is a book that feels like just as much an escape as the one Summer and Jude look for.

Of course, it helps that they're a winning pair. Instantly taken with each other thanks to Summer's honest and open style, they embrace in a seemingly-natural alliance. And whether they're cracking Jude's bucket list or simply having dinner together, they feel completely natural and fully realized. As such, there are occasional hiccups, and Boxall expertly finds ways of producing mendable fractures between the two as they grow together.

Ultimately, rich characters, numerous adventures, and a focus on the beautiful within the tragic all combine for an uplifting read.

Loved this story. It had my emotions going all over the place because as I was reading, I felt like I was right there with them. The characters are wonderful, well most of them. Everyone has some flaws and some issues they either don’t know how to handle, or just need to find a way to work through them. You’ll see courage, despair, hope, love, just about any emotion you can think of and it all comes together so well. You’ll also see all sorts of personalities, which makes reading this very enjoyable. I received this book from NetGalley, but my opinion is my own.

Where should I begin with this book? First off, the title can be misleading. Only three chapters (if I'm not mistaken) are set during Christmas. And when I read/hear Christmas at the Lighthouse, I'm expecting a book that will, at least, spend a considerable amount of time during Christmas. But after reading the book, I understand the reason behind it, I just don't think it is strong enough.

The book centres around two characters: June and Summer. Each of them has their own problems to deal with. Summer sees her 20-years marriage on the line when her husband asks for a break. And June receives some really bad news regarding his health. Both of them have quite distinguished lives, and they are forced to meet up by chance. As soon as they meet, they feel an attraction for each other becoming immediately close.

When I went to this book, I was expecting a cheesy-hallmark-movie kind of story. And I came out slightly disappointed. Even though it's a lighthearted romance and even a bit cheesy, the romance happened too fast. I would enjoy this book way more if both characters took the time to know each other first and become close friends before taking the relationship into the sheets.

Of them both, Summer was the character that I disliked the most. Her ideas didn't exactly match her actions creating more drama that wasn't needed. The rushed relationship with June is an example of that. It's not supposed to be payback against Seth, she even says it's not. But, in the end, her choices speak otherwise.

Even though I had my problems with the decisions that were made for the story, it still grabbed my attention. I read this book cover to cover, and it wasn't a bother to pick it up again. I was intrigued to see what would happen next. How everything was going to end. And even if this wasn't the Christmas story I was hoping for, it was a story about emotional support, friendship, loyalty, next chances, and life.

Loved this book. Great characters, easy read, uplifting, funny, romantic and charming. A really nice story that is the perfect escapist read.

Jude lives Jersey in a job he hates a lonely life and hes never been in love.
Summer lives with her husband Seth in England for more than 20 years, wityh adult twin boys, when Seth asks for a break in their marrige Summer goes to her aunts in Jersey.
Before he meets Summer, Jude is diagnosed with a grade 4 Glioblastoma brain tumour, which is inoperable in the uk,
Ok so I dont want to give too much of the book away, I wish there had been a tyrigger warning on this for me anyway, I thought a cute fluffy xmas book, its not all that,
My dad died 2 years ago from a glioblastoma tumour and tis book brought everything back, but in saying that the author gave a true account, my dad was only given 2 months so he couldnt do his bucket list, but it was fun reading about Judes.
I am glad I read this book and although it was hard for me to read in places this book was fantastic, well done Rebecca you nailed it.

Two identical suitcases. One belongs to Summer, a woman who is fleeing from England to the island of Jersey to recover from the shock that her husband has asked for a "six month break in their marriage." The other belongs to Jude, a man who is coping with devastating news of his own -- he's been diagnosed with a brain tumor. When each reaches their destination on Jersey, they realize that they have the wrong suitcase and the search for the rightful owners brings them together. Each person immediately feels an affinity for the other, as if their souls know they are both searching for answers that will help them cope with their tragedies. A relationship develops as they work together to help Jude accomplish the things on his bucket list before he dies.

My only disappointment (a minor one) about the book: the title seems to indicate that it takes place entirely during Christmas, but that isn't quite true. In fact, the transformation that Summer and Jude experience probably couldn't be realistically accomplished during the short 3-4 week holiday period.

The story is filled with a mixture of sadness, hope, reconciliation, and eventually happiness. (Because every good romance deserves an HEA, right?) I enjoyed it and recommend you check it out if you're looking for an inspiring, second chance book!

This book made me sad...IDK why! Not sad in a bad way...just thoughtful and sad...

**OMG! I cannot believe that these reviews haven't been done! I am so sorry they are so late!!!**

“Christmas by the Lighthouse” by Rebecca Boxall really has little to do with Christmas. The story focuses on the disintegrating marriage of the main character, the illness of her lover, and their efforts to start a new life together. (I guess the idea of getting married before having a baby together is an old-fashioned idea, right? Maybe I am just showing my age here, since I think morals must be different now.)

I did not really like any of the main characters. I thought they were shallow and self-centered for the most part. The way the main characters found each other was the most interesting part of the story, no spoiler here for future readers. Christian readers will probably find sufficient offensive ideas (atheism, immorality) so may want to avoid this novel altogether.

I received this book from the publisher and from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed here are entirely my own.

Challenged Romance. This book did an excellent job of following the standard tropes while making it seem like that might not happen - at least for someone who had never read this author before. The particular challenges this couple face could be considered insurmountable, but the author does a great job of showing the couple come together through the challenges, rather than fall apart because of them. Excellent work, and very much recommended.

This book is the perfect feel good holiday read. You know how the story is going to end up, but enjoy the ride! I enjoy these heartfelt books during the holidays and this one was extremely well written.

Not realistic in the slightest. Some big issues are covered here, which are all resolved far too quickly. The title is misleading too. Not much of the story is set round Christmas time, so if you're looking for a Christmassy read, this isn't it. I found Jude very childish at times, although this was explained by his lack of relationship history. I liked Summer, and the supporting characters were all entertaining. This could be a spoiler, but Summer getting accidentally pregnant I found to be a bit of a yawn fest. I liked the fact they rescued a dog, but question whether this could happen in the space of an hour. Lovely descriptions, and it was interesting the way Summer and Jude met. There could have been more depth though - things got sorted out far too easily. That said it did hold my attention throughout and it is a 'nice' if somewhat unrealistic read.

What happens when your husband ask for a break and you travel to your Aunts cottage. Well of course you pick up the wrong luggage. When you arrange to pick it up after a gentleman's friend has wrote a story and put it on the news. What you don't know is the this gentleman has been given bad news and is trying to figure out what to do with it. Summer and Jude set out on adventures together and find themselves in love. They work together to go through Jude's short bucket list. Both have fears for the future as Jude doesn't think he has a chance of one with his diagnosis. Summer doesn't think she will return to her old life. With support from friends and family they see things changing for the better. At the end of they day life will throw them a few curves and then it will even out.

I was pleased to receive an advance copy of Christmas by the Lighthouse. I was interested in reading this book because I enjoy Christmas and lighthouses. This is not a Christmas book in the sense I enjoy. It is a novel of two people who are struggling with their lives, come together and fall in love. The book didn't hook me, yet I pressed on to the finish, thinking that I would eventually get into the story but I did not. This is not to say it is written poorly but rather, I am not the targeted audience. Had this book been written with a different title I probably would not have requested to read it for review.

I love Christmas-themed novels, but I was a teeny bit disappointed that this book didn’t make much mention of Christmas.

Summer and Jude had never met until they’re both heading to Jersey – from different directions – and end up accidentally taking each other’s suitcases.

Having lost both my parents to cancer, I find it difficult to read books where a character has been diagnosed with some form of it. I know that serious subjects sometimes have to be covered, but it would be useful to have some kind of warning/mention in the blurb.

It’s a nice, well-written book and if you’re not fazed by the subject of serious illness, then you’ll enjoy it.

Thank you to NetGalley and Amazon Publishing for an advance reader copy in return for an honest review.

This would be a good read for someone else but not me I love Christmas like most others. But not all in other countries

Journalist Summer is shocked when her husband Seth wants a six-month break from their marriage. Summer moves to Jersey to spend six months by sea. There she meets Jude who has just received the devastating news that he has only one year to live. Their chance encounter due to the mixup of their luggage feels like fate.

Author Rebecca Boxall has created an emotional and heartwarming story. Even with such a tough subject, she was able to create a lighthearted love story with focus on the beautiful aspects of life.

I always find it difficult to read books with sad endings, I crave HEAs. And thanks to the author for the way she ended Summer and Jude's story. And thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an ARC of this book.

I really enjoyed reading this book, an emotional novel at times. I will definitely read another by Rebecca Boxall as I found it well-written and fun.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for letting me read this in exchange for a review. I will be putting this review on Amazon.

movies, even magazine articles. i love christmas! this book was just plain silly. bad. a woman embarking on a bucket list when her husband decides he wants six months off from their marriage . the only word i can think of is silly. not even lighthearted just silly. needless to say i was disappointed in this book and do not recommend it to anyone . thank you for providing the chance to read this however i look forward two more interesting stories in the future i really don’t know what else to say but i need to have 100 words and there aren’t 100 words to say. thank you again. i was hoping this was a festive christmas tale but it was not

The was an ok read for me but I was sort of disappointed in Summer, the main character in the story. She is shocked when her husband wants a 6 month break from their marriage. They are empty nesters and she moves to Jersey to look at the situation. She meets Jude who has a potentially deadly tumor and encourages him to fulfill his bucket list. I don't want to give the story away so I won't go into too much detail. I received a copy of this ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review.

Not a light read, heavy subject matter but so well written that it is wonderful. It a story of marriage, life expectations and disappointments. It is also of hope and dreams.

What a wonderful book! I loved the story which flowed along so nicely and having recently visited Jersey, reminded me of this special island. I was so hoping for a happy ending for the wonderful Summer & Jude, as I became emotionally attached to them..... did that happen? I’m not going to say as I wouldn’t want to spoil anyone else’s enjoyment of the book! You’ll just have to read it yourself to find out - but I would recommend that you download and read it soon,,,,,,,!!

My only criticism would be that I was expecting a Christmas story and really the only mention of Christmas is that that is where the story ends - on Christmas Eve. Still, a thoroughly enjoyable read which I would recommend to everyone.

Thank you to the publishers & NetGalley for the opportunity to review this book.

This was an adorable story. Not totally christmassy since the story takes place over an 18 month period, but a solid romance read. I very quickly fell in love with Summer. Jude was an interesting character.

Hmm... can you like a book but at the same time not like it? I’m not even sure why I don’t like it except it seemed so far fetched it was ridiculous. If you put that aside it was a sweet love story.

I found the title very misleading. Christmas played a very minor role in the story. By the title, I would have thought it would be rampant throughout.

In my opinion, read as a book not to take seriously and one as a relaxing read. I give it 4 stars because I liked the story just not the delivery and the outlandishness of it.

I received a complimentary copy from the publisher, Amazon Publishing UK, through NetGalley. Any and all opinions expressed in the above review are entirely my own.

I was looking forward to this book as part of my Christmas reading. Unfortunately I got about 1/4 of the way through and found that I was feeling sad reading it so did not continue. It is more than likely a personal thing and others' will enjoy reading it but I got stuck and couldn't continue.

This was a really good story, but not Christmassy in the sense of a Hallmark move. I loved the characters and their journey. I would recommend this any time, not just for Christmas.

This was a charming read, set on a beautiful island that has made me want to visit.
Summer has a shock when her husband tells her he wants to take a break for 6 months. She decides to stay in her aunts cottage in Jersey. She meets Jude when their suitcases get mixed up at the airport. He is such a lovely character and they quickly become friends spending time together.
You are wondering whether this fledging relationship will blossom into something more or whether Summer will be yearning to see her husband as soon as the 6 month break are over.
I really enjoyed this book and will seek out more by Rebecca Boxall

Romance filled with emotion and feel good feelings. A lovely book for the festive season. Thank you to Netgalley and the publishers for letting me review this book.

After 20 years of marriage and two children together Summer is amazed when her husband Seth announces he wants to take a break of 6 months from their marriage. She travels to Jersey to stay in her aunts house and en route gets her suitcase mixed up with another passengers. She meets Jude to exchange cases and a friendship begins which develops into something more. Jude himself is reeling from some bad new he has received and together they decide to enjoy their time in Jersey, short lived as it may be.
This is a lovely story, light hearted, warm and with an array of lovely characters. I really enjoyed reading it during the madness of Christmas time.

Charming book with likeable characters and a warm story. Really enjoyed reading this and loved the tale of Summer finding herself after Seth’s bombshell. Evocative settings and believable situations make this a wonderful book - realistic yet aspirational!

Each year I anxiously wait for Rebecca Boxall's holiday books. Her writing is exquisite and I'm transported away to coastal British towns where I truly wish I could spend my holidays. This year, however, I was a bit disappointed. Okay, a lot disappointed. Try as I might, I could not relate to the characters or the story line. I suspect that it was more my own fault than that of the author's but this was not the holiday story for me this year.

I'm not to sure how realistic this book is but I like it because of it's simplistic difference from other books. I enjoyed reading a different take on things.
Very enjoyable plot I'll definitely be reading more by this author.

Published September 12th 2019 by Lake Union Publishing.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.

Well, I knew that even though I liked another book written by this author it wasn't exactly high literature, but this one was a complete hit and miss for me.


Starting with the fact that (and here comes a bit of spoiler, sorry, but I can't simply go by it) there's not even a remote of warning about the theme cancer. And I know. I'm a doctor. I shouldn't care. But, you know, when you start to read a book as a distraction from your real life, and then a character has the exact same type of cancer that your beloved aunt died of just months before, you're not exactly happy with the fact that it all came without a warning.


So I started this book with - symbolically - throwing it away just after the first couple of (rather short) chapters.


Then I got back to it the following day, because I was ready to read it forward then.


And after I cooled down I realized that my personal feelings are not at all the only things that I found not okay with this story.


First of all, it kind of downplays the cancer storyline. I mean, it is basically the main storyline, but... it's just too easy. It doesn't work that way. (Maybe with some types, but definitely not this one.) I felt like this was a pseudo-part of the story, because it need something to complicate things, something to make the story a story, but somehow it seemed false. I know this book was supposed to be a light-hearted thing, and that's probably why the serious stuff was all downplayed, but this way I simply couldn't take it seriously anymore. I couldn't believe anything that happened.


In fact, I felt like this book was a collection of all cheesy, overused hollywood romcom clichés. Terminal illness, check. Character realizes they have never lived before, check. Wanting to start to live life to the fullest and creating a bucket list, check. Terminal illness miraculously healed, check. Couple in a boring, dysfunctional twenty-year marriage with kids having fun at college going on a 'break' instead of divorce, check. Excentric hippy parents running around crazy, check. Running home in the rain together, check. The 'who's the father' drama, check. Stuck in a place for hours together, check. Insta love, check. Airport mix-up stuff, check. Getting a rescue dog together, even though nothing's stable in our lives, check. Moving together instantly, and needing no time to accustom to the arrangment, check. I feel like I could continue this list forever.


Oh, and overall unnaturally too much sunset included.


The characters were relatively interesting, though. The problem is, I couldn't really appreciate them, when their story was so utterly fantasyless.

Christmas by the light house is a lovely story and the first I have read by this author.
I was first intrigued by the cover and the word Christmas in the title but soon found that I would love it for more reasons once I started reading it.
This book has it all emotions wise but is written in a way that you can enjoy the bad as well as the good. I will be hunting out more by this author for sure.

This was a sweet little romance. It was a quick read and was a bit depressing at times, but overall I enjoyed Summer and Jude's story. Their six week relationship and adventure trying to live all they can.

While the storyline was intriguing and the plot unusual, I did not care for the characters at all and I found I had to force myself to read this book. This simply was not the book for me.

I was unable to read and review the book by the publishing date due to other commitments. I will update the review immediately upon completion of the book. Thank you NetGalley and publisher.

A great read. This is a new suthor and the picture enticed me in....we have a couple who hqve a 6 month due to June wanting a break so his wife takes off... to Jersey . Obviously, is one of rhose predictable plots that she meets someone but is he the man she needs.
A great book, great location, you felt like you was there. Tou could feel the story pulling you in. Brilliantly wrote.

This is a perfect book for the holiday season, packed with Christmas love and cheer. I truly enjoyed reading this book because it upped my mood and spirits and helped me remember the reason and magic of the holiday season. I would highly recommend adding this book to your holiday reading list; it is like reading a Hallmark movie!

Summer has always put her husband and children first, so she's taken by surprise when he asks for a six-month break from their marriage. She takes advantage of her freedom and heads off to Jersey, to her aunt's cottage for time by the sea. A mix-up with her luggage brings her together with Jude. Jude, has had his own rough road and is trying to heal mentally from an attack by a student. It has been awhile, but he is still playing it safe, until he receives some news of his own that his totally unprepared for. Now, Summer and Jude are enjoying their time together and creating memories to last for as long as they are around.

Rebecca Boxall has written a beautiful, heartwarming story. Both Summer and Jude are dealing with some serious issues, Summer on a break from her husband and Jude having been diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumor. They're both seeking relief, comfort and some excitement to take them away from their normal, ordinary lives. Even though the issues they are dealing with are quite heavy and sad, the author has managed to keep this story relatively light. They talk about their situations, but they are more concerned with making the most of their lives that summer, having fun and fulfilling Jude's bucket list. I really loved these characters. Summer is open and honest and ready to embrace life. Jude has a good sense of humour considering what he is dealing with and is accepting of whatever life has in store for him. They make a great couple and complement each other well. All does not go according to plan and you will have to read this one to find out what happens and how Rebecca Boxall brings this story to an uplifting ending

If I’m honest I don’t want to read a Christmas book which starts off miserable. This year has had too much of that already.

Didn’t like this as much as the other books by this author - just found the story was a bit too far fetched.

A lovely romantic Christmas story in a perfect setting and as always with this author the characters draw you in from the beginning and you are rooting for them to have a happy ending

Most of the book was set in the summer months, so the title of this book has absolutely nothing to do with the content of this book; which is disappointing as it's three days before Christmas and there is nothing Christmassy about this book at all.
Also, this book really wasn't for me. It was like a Hallmark movie, but a really mediocre Hallmark movie. There was so much crammed into this book, that it's difficult to know where to start. Firstly, Summer puts up no fight whatsoever when her husband suggests that they take a break from their marriage. She ends up in Jersey where she meets Seth.
One afternoon, Seth who is in a dead-end job, has a nasty headache and is swiftly diagnosed with a terminal brain tumour within the space of a few hours. He and Summer meet and fall in love, but he is dying after all. The reader then has to endure chapter after chapter of Jude's bucket list with Summer by his side. After six months, Jude finally has a hospital appointment and lo and behold there is a miracle doctor in Canada who can operate on his once inoperable brain tumour. Seth travels to Canada for this miracle operation whilst Summer stays in Jersey. Once he is back, Seth tells Summer that he would like to have a baby with her. Summer doesn't want a baby as she already has 20 year old twins (who Seth hasn't met as yet.) Cue Seth's man tantrum, where he gets up and leaves and tell Summer to go back to her husband via a hand written note.
Summer does go back to her husband but eventually leaves him again after discovering that he and her best friend Tilly have had a five year affair under her nose. Also, Summer is pregnant. Who is the father of the baby? I didn't hold my breath.

I love a good rom-com, but this book, sadly was not what I had hoped for based on the description. I was hoping this was a Christmas story, but it isn't. I also was annoyed with the main character as she basically let her husband walk all over her, just can't get on board with that.