The Light on Horn Island

Author: Valerie Fraser Luesse
Genre: Contemporary Fiction
Pages: 320
Release Date: April 29, 2025
Publisher: Revell

Just when her life comes crumbling down, she discovers secrets that could shape her future--and heal her past.

When Edie Gardner's life in New York falls apart, her grandmother Adele "Punk" Cheramie coaxes her back to tiny Bayou du Chêne, Mississippi. Edie spent many happy summers there, a stone's throw from untamed Horn Island, where she once found love. Can she now demystify the island's strange new light?

Punk and her colorful friends introduce Edie to the Trove, a fascinating gallery and antique shop. Like Horn Island's light, The Trove has appeared out of nowhere. Its proprietor, with a gift for discerning his customers' needs, gives Edie a Victorian parlor game that asks players a series of personal questions, which is harmless fun at first. But Edie and her grandmother's circle find that the game has a way of uncovering secrets, including a heartbreak that has haunted one of the women for decades. Banding together, this Southern sisterhood is determined to find answers that will bring healing, hope, and happiness--and maybe explain the transcendent illumination of a wild and windswept barrier island.

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Reviewer: Ewurabena Wilson

“We all need light to guide us in our darkest moments.”

One word sums up Valerie Fraser Luesse’s latest novel-vibrancy. This is a carefully researched and very well-written novel. I enjoyed reading it, there was never a dull moment. The author knew when to add a character without losing the plot of the story. Valerie Fraser Luesse, you are a story weaver, and I am pleased to have read such an exceptional work from you.

Edie Gardner is a twenty-something woman who is grieving the loss of her best friend, Leni. She leaves New York City behind to spend time with her grandmother, Adele ‘Punk’ Cheramie. It is at Punk’s place that God sends her ‘beams of light’ to draw her out of her darkness. 

Readers will meet the mysterious Jason Toussaint, Coco, Sugar and Cookie, Charlotte, and a long-lost love of Edie. The Light on Horn Island is set thirty years after the devastating hurricane Camille. Valerie Fraser Luesse blends this incident along with that of Edie’s grief to deliver a story which demonstrates that darkness can never overcome light.

I had a great time visualizing all the dishes described in the novel. I sure would like to visit Punk at her bayou and allow her to indulge me in her culinary skills. I strongly recommend this novel to anyone looking for a good book to read. 

I received a complimentary copy courtesy of Bethany House through NetGalley and Interviews & Reviews for my honest opinion.

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Reviewer: Elizabeth Eckmeyer

This story sure put me in the mood for summer and the beach! Edie grew up in Mississippi, but when her and her best friend decided to move to New York City to further their education and career, she never looked back. When a tragedy happens, she runs home to her grandmother Punk in Biloxi, Mississippi. 

Punk is a cool grandmother, and her friends, whom Edie calls ten points, are thick as thieves. Each one has a story to tell about their past. At present, they are as active as ever, enjoying their time watching the ocean.  

Charlotte comes home after going through a life change. As she heals, her past comes to haunt her when Edie is given a gift by a shop owner—a game. The group of women learn more about each other and their pasts. This is a story about self-discovery and how to carry on when life gets difficult. I truly recommend it! 

A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Revell Publishers through Interviews & Reviews via NetGalley. All opinions are mine alone.

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Reviewer: Lori Parrish

I finished this book in the wee hours of the morning. What a fantastic story! I was mesmerized from the very beginning until the end.

I loved each and every character, but I think my favorite ones were Norah and Charley. I loved their strength and will to help them through their journey. 

The author has offered love, faith, hope and, most of all, friendship. Best of all, her Southern charm. 

There is a bit of mystery that kept me turning the pages, too.

This is my favorite book by this author. She has left my heart feeling full and satisfied. Five stars for a job well done! 

I highly recommend it. 

I thank Revell for a copy of this book, which I received through Interviews & Reviews via NetGalley.

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