Review: The Beekeeper Next Door by Danielle Thorne

About the Book

Title: The Beekeeper Next Door

Author: Danielle Thorne

Publisher: Love Inspired

Release Date: June 25, 2024

Genre: Christian Romance, Inspirational Romance

Facing his fear

Could give him the family he’s always wanted.

Returning to his hometown to clean up his late parents’ home, professor Heath Underwood has no intention of making his stay permanent. Especially when he discovers his neighbor is a beekeeper. But avoiding widow Ali Harding proves difficult when her eight-year-old son bonds with him and his dog. As Heath spends more time with them, his fear of bees—and heartbreak—could stand in the way of his happily-ever-after…

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads |Amazon |Barnes & Noble |BookBub

My Review

5 stars

Danielle Thorne weaves a beautiful, heartwarming story about conquering fears and giving love a second chance.

I get super excited about stories that are unique, sweet, romantic, and when I learn something. This novel has all of that plus a loveable little boy and a dog! Thank you, Danielle Thorne!

Ali is the beekeeper next door and her initial reaction to the new neighbor cutting down the wire fence between their properties could have destroyed a chance at friendship or more. Except, she strives to live out her faith and seeks peace with Heath.

Heath has returned home for the summer to fix up his late mother’s home that he inherited. Deathly afraid of bees (and for good cause), he struggles with his neighbor’s apiary so close to his family home.

I loved the way the author set up the tension over bees, while educating both Heath and the reader on the value, safety, and importance of bees. I find myself a little less scared of them than before. 😊

The romance develops slowly and remains clean and sweet throughout the novel. Fans of inspirational romance, Christian romance, and clean & wholesome romance will enjoy this book.

Romance: Passing mention of hand holding and attraction. Light kissing late in the book.

Faith: Both characters learn to rely on God. The spiritual arc for Heath is very relatable for those who have felt disappointed by life and pin it on God.

Disclaimer: I requested and received an advanced copy of this book courtesy of Just Read Tours. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.

About the Author

Danielle Thorne writes happily-ever-afters set in the South for Harlequin Love Inspired. A graduate of BYU-Idaho, she also writes stories about Regency ladies, pirates, and not-so-distressed damsels from her home south of Atlanta. Free time is filled with documentaries, too much yard work, and not enough travel. When not writing wholesome romances, Danielle hangs out with friends or chases cats. She enjoys the outdoors and serving in her church and community. Danielle's been married to the same fellow for thirty years, has four sons, two daughters-in-law, twin grandbabies, and she loves them more than life.