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Under the Northern Lights

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Lose yourself in this absolutely heartwarming read, perfect for fans of Debbie Macomber, Susan Mallery, and Annie Rains.

Freelance wildlife photographer Aurora Daniels gets an unexpected job opportunity in Alaska. It sounds like the perfect assignment. She might even catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights she was named after. Except the location of her almost-honeymoon is the one place she’d rather not go.

Giving up one dream, however, doesn’t mean she has to give up on all of them, so Aurora accepts the assignment.

When a mudslide brought on by the rainy season causes Aurora to miss her flight back to Seattle, Gage Weston, a handsome floatplane pilot, comes to her rescue. He flies her to his family’s island resort for the night. Then, she’s sure to catch the next flight out.

Right?

An uplifting escape that will have you longing to jump on a plane in search of your own adventure. Look no further if you’re searching for a feel-good, small-town, cozy romance!

252 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 26, 2025

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About the author

Lindsey Brookes

17 books147 followers
Romance author Lindsey Brookes grew up reading romance novels. She penned her first romance, a historical, at the age of seventeen. From there she went on to join Romance Writers of America where she learned the ins and outs of the publishing business and ways to hone her craft. She switched to writing contemporary romance and has finalled in/or won more than 75 RWA chapter sponsored contests with over a dozen different manuscripts. She is also a three time RWA Golden Heart finalist as well as a past American Title III finalist. She's married to her childhood sweetheart, her hero, with whom she has two beautiful daughters.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
Profile Image for Literary Redhead.
2,905 reviews714 followers
August 4, 2025
That cover grabbed me! And the lovely romantic tale between Aurora Daniels, a freelance wildlife photographer named after the Northern Lights, and Gage Weston, a hunky floatplane pilot, captured my heart. When he rescues her during a mudslide that cancels her flight home to Seattle, the magic between them begins. Aaaaaaaaaah!
Profile Image for Caroline’s Page~Turners.
612 reviews17 followers
August 25, 2025
Aurora Daniels, named after the Aurora Borealis, receives an extraordinary job assignment in Alaska. This once-in-a-lifetime opportunity allows her to witness the breathtaking Northern Lights, a phenomenon she has never seen in person.

Gage Weston, a floatplane pilot, rescues Aurora when she misses her return flight to Seattle. His family owns an island resort, where they take her in for the night until she can catch the next flight to Seattle. As the Northern Lights dance in the sky, Gage stirs up feelings in Aurora that she has long suppressed. Could her dream assignment lead her to the man of her dreams?

Lindsey Brookes’ heartwarming and uplifting novel, “Under The Northern Lights,” transports readers to a magical world. With her vivid descriptions, the author captures the essence of the Northern Lights, making it a truly unforgettable experience.

Returning to Alaska through the pages of a book is always a comforting and nostalgic experience. The characters of Aurora and Gage, along with the enchanting island resort owned by Gage’s family, create a captivating atmosphere. I highly recommend this enchanting escape to Alaska.
Profile Image for Madisan Black.
4 reviews
October 18, 2025
Under the Northern Lights was the perfect cozy, cutesy, fall read! I loved that this love story is based in Alaska 💙🗻
Profile Image for Chris.
654 reviews18 followers
August 5, 2025
★★★☆☆ (3.5 stars - I'm sitting on the fence like Aurora probably sits on a log to get the perfect nature shot)

Disclaimer: I received this ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review, and honestly? Here we go.

Lindsey Brookes has done it again, folks. And by "it," I mean she's given us another heroine who just happens to be a nature photographer. At this point, I'm starting to wonder if there's some sort of romance novel character generator that only has three settings: "Aurora," "nature photographer," and "inexplicably good at capturing the perfect sunset despite being emotionally damaged."

Don't get me wrong—the characters are undeniably cute. They have that puppy-dog-in-a-Christmas-sweater kind of charm that makes you go "aww" even when they're making questionable life decisions. But I can't help but notice we're working with the same character template here. It's like romance novel Mad Libs: "[Female protagonist] is a talented [nature photographer] who travels to [remote location] and meets [tall, dark, and mysteriously handsome man with probable flannel collection]."

Speaking of our mysterious male lead—because of course he's tall, dark, and handsome—I'm convinced there's a secret romance hero factory somewhere churning out these guys. They all have the same mysterious past, the same brooding stare, and the same inexplicable ability to look devastatingly attractive while chopping wood or fixing something mechanical. Where do they find these men? Are they grown in a lab? Is there a specialized dating app called "Brood-r"?

The Northern Lights setting is gorgeous, though I suspect Aurora will somehow manage to photograph them in a way that's never been done before, because that's what nature photographers do in romance novels—they're not just good, they're revolutionary artists who see the world differently. Meanwhile, the rest of us can barely get our phone cameras to focus on our lunch.
The plot moves along at a pleasant pace, like a scenic train ride where you know exactly where you're going but the view is nice enough that you don't mind the predictability. There are moments of genuine charm and the kind of banter that makes you smile despite yourself. The romantic tension builds appropriately, though I did find myself wondering if these two attractive people have ever considered that maybe, just maybe, they should try actually talking to each other about their feelings instead of having seventeen different misunderstandings that could be resolved with one honest conversation.

But here's the thing—even though I can practically predict every plot point, I still found myself rooting for them. It's comfort food in book form, like a warm blanket that happens to have attractive people on it.

The Verdict: "Under the Northern Lights" is a perfectly serviceable romance that hits all the expected notes. If you're looking for groundbreaking literature, keep looking. If you want a cozy read with cute characters and predictable but satisfying romance, you've found your book. Just don't expect Aurora to suddenly pivot to portrait photography; nature is the only acceptable artistic calling for romance heroines named Aurora.

Recommended for: Anyone who enjoys their romance with a side of beautiful scenery and doesn't mind that they've essentially read this same character before. Also, people who aren't bothered by the fact that only one type of woman exists in the romance universe: the sensitive artist with a camera and commitment issues.

Will I read the next Lindsey Brookes book? Probably.
Profile Image for Happily Ever After Romance.
1,002 reviews27 followers
August 25, 2025
Reviewed at Happily Ever After Romance

Under the Northern Lights is the type of slow-burning romance that I fall in love with. Aurora and Gage are career/business-focused people who shouldn’t really work as a couple, yet they do in the best ways possible. The beauty of the Alaskan setting, the Northern Lights, and the wildlife are almost an additional character in this story, as they are also given loving care.

Aurora is in Alaska for a photography assignment, while the beauty of this land intrigues her, often leaving her breathless, the reality of a mudslide will give her a different experience of nature at its worst. She’s missed the last flight out, and now stranded, will need to trust in the kindness of strangers… like Gage.

I enjoyed this story so much. It’s a quick read, yet it delivered a story that touched my heart, entertained me, and kept my interest throughout. Gage, as the owner of a fishing resort, will offer a place for the night until she can catch another flight out… but one night turns into several as sparks fly and hearts are engaged. But city girl vs wilderness boy, their lives, their careers are vastly different, especially location-wise. Taking the risk of falling in love just might be worth trying to figure out those pesky details. I liked this couple, both individually and together, and loved Gage’s meddlesome, amazing family. If you love a cozy romance with a couple who have issues but can work them out together, then you’d enjoy Under the Northern Lights by Lindsey Brookes. I sincerely hope this turns into a series, for there are other people I’d love to know more about.

*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley, and I sincerely thank the author or publishing house for their trust. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
Profile Image for Carla.
7,924 reviews185 followers
November 28, 2025
Aurora Daniels, named after the Aurora Borealis, receives a job assignment in Alaska that she can't turn down. Even though she and her ex were supposed to go to Alaska on their honeymoon, she still accepts. This is chance to finally see the Northern Lights. When a mudslide causes her to miss her flight home to Seattle, she is saved by floatplane pilot, Gage Weston. Gage's family owns an island resort, so he takes her there to stay the night before catching another flight the next day. Still not seeing the Northern Lights, Aurora decides to stay a few more days. While she is there, Gage takes her around the area and shows her the many wonders of the area. His family are warm and inviting and Aurora quickly feels like part of the family. You can't spend time in a secluded area and go on picnics to see whales and other Arctic animals without developing feelings toward one another, can you?

Lindsey Brookes story is delightful. It is like taking a trip to Alaska and seeing the various animals in nature as well as the amazing Northern Lights. The characters in this book were wonderful. Gage's family are realistic and relatable. The issues they are dealing with regarding the family business are very timely, with big companies building resorts and taking business away from smaller family businesses. Aurora had some issues she was dealing with, not wanting to jump into another relationship after breaking off her engagement, but she was finding Gage and his family hard to resist. She couldn't let herself fall for him and she was vying for job with a travel magazine which would have her traveling all over the world. Gage had already had one "city girl" leave him when she couldn't live on an island in Alaska. Can these two overcome those issues to realize they were perfect for one another. I enjoyed this sweet story about family, friendship and romance, all set in a wonderful location.
Profile Image for Lilli.
33 reviews
August 15, 2025
3.5 stars

I received this book for free from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

Cozy, scenic romance of unexpected connection in the Alaskan wild.

Aurora Daniels, a freelance wildlife photographer named after the natural wonder she longs to see, travels to Alaska for a job and perhaps a chance to catch the elusive northern lights. But when a mudslide delays her return flight, fate intervenes. Gage Weston—a charming floatplane pilot—comes to her rescue, flying her to his family’s remote island resort for the night. What should be a quick overnight stop blossoms into an uplifting escape filled with adventure, warmth, and unexpected sparks.

What I Enjoyed:
- Easy to read, just-right length: a cozy romance that flows effortlessly and never overstays its welcome.
- Gage = book boyfriend material: he’s dependable, kind-hearted, and instantly easy to root for. I totally see why Aurora falls for him.
- Comfortable clichés that work: the plot is predictable, sure but that’s part of the genre’s charm, and I enjoyed the familiarity.
- Purely enjoyable: even with the obvious beats, the read was thoroughly pleasant and left me feeling warm.

What Didn’t Stand Out:
- It leans into familiar storytelling so whilst I enjoyed reading this book I cannot say it is memorable, but not every read needs to be.

Final Thoughts
If you're in the mood for a light, scenic romance, especially one set against an Alaskan backdrop, Under the Northern Lights delivers. It’s a gentle read with swoon-worthy moments and calm, heartwarming pacing. Sometimes, predictable is exactly what we need and this book delivers it beautifully.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Tammy Lunsford - Escape to Books By Tammy.
2,232 reviews78 followers
August 19, 2025
Magical is the first word that comes to mind when I think about this book and how to write my review.

Aurora Daniels is a free lance wildlife photographer who is in Alaska hoping to get the perfect shot so she land her dream job. When she gets stuck in Alaska after missing her flight, floatplane pilot, Gage Weston, offers her a place to stay at his family's island resort. She is immediately enchanted with the scenery. Aurora is not a high dollar resort kind of girl. She enjoys communing with nature, so this is the perfect place to spend the evening.

Gage Weston is just trying to save his family's business before some other big business swallows them up.

Both characters have their dreams that need to be fulfilled. They can't let a silly thing like love derail their future plans. Or can they?

This was one of those feel good books that are a nice change of pace, especially after reading a thriller. The descriptions of the breathtaking scenery made me want to visit Alaska. All of the characters were incredibly likable and fun to get to know. The Weston family truly loved one another and cared about others, and it showed in the way they ran their business. There were also some really funny moments as well to balance out the story. I have no problem giving this one a solid five stars.

Thank you to Harpeth Road and NetGalley for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Erin.
25 reviews
August 28, 2025
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ (3/5)

Under the Northern Lights is a cute and cozy romance set in Alaska, leaning heavily into the lodge-y and nature vibes of the last American frontier. The main characters, Aurora and Gage, are clearly smitten with each other from the outset, but carry their own baggage that keeps them from ever really connecting. Very cute "love at first sight" vibes between the two of them that pair perfectly with the chilly setting.

I loved the family inclusion in this book, focusing on how Gage is clearly a man who adores his family, and they adore him. Similarly, one of Aurora's driving motivations is her love and admiration for her parents and their relationship. This is something a lot of romance books get wrong, so that was very refreshing to see incorporated as not only a character building point but, in some ways, an important plot driver.

That said, I did feel this book lacked any real conflict. While both characters came in with some prior relationship baggage, they also both clearly stated they recognized why those relationships had failed and that it was for the best. The "will they won't they" felt a little forced at times, leading to repetitive statements of motivation (i.e. "but my career!" or "but the lodge!") that never really saw much development, until an ending where the resolution felt a bit rushed.

Overall, extremely sweet and feel-good with all of the warm and fuzzies. 😊

Thank you NetGalley and BooksGoSocial for the ARC!
Profile Image for Kelly Powell.
355 reviews8 followers
August 15, 2025
Thanks to Net Galley and BooksGoSocial for this ARC.

A Heartwarming Alaskan Escape

If you’re in the mood for a feel-good, cozy romance with a breathtaking backdrop, this heartwarming read will sweep you off your feet. Alaska has always been on my bucket list, and this story made me feel like I was already there! From stunning landscapes to unforgettable wildlife encounters; bears, moose, and majestic eagles, every detail pulled me deeper into the setting. Alaska feels like a character itself: wild, beautiful, and alive in every scene.

The chemistry between Aurora and Gage is tender, believable, and a refreshingly slow-burn. The author beautifully captures the push and pull between vulnerability and courage, especially when two people with complicated pasts are offered a glimpse of something new. Though I usually read stories with on-page heat, the emotional depth here was more than enough.

Gage’s family is so welcoming, it’s impossible not to fall in love with them too.

Uplifting and emotionally resonant, this novel is more than just a romance, it’s a journey of self-discovery and the quiet beauty of starting over. Whether you're curled up with a blanket or dreaming of your next getaway, this book is the perfect companion.
Profile Image for Chai Book aur Charcha.
256 reviews3 followers
August 25, 2025
UNDER THE NORTHERN LIGHTS
-Lindsey Brookes


Aurora Daniels
Gage Weston


Under the Northern lights is a cozy, charming, witty, slow burn romance that you would want to devour when you are cuddle up in your bed under your softest blanket with a hot beverage of your choice.

Aurora a freelancer wildlife photographer (named after the nature's miracle her parents fall in love under) is on an assignment in Alaska hoping to get a perfect shot that will land her dream job at the one of the top magazines. But when she gets stuck there due to a mudslide she is offered a place to stay by Gage at his family's island resort she accepts it gladly ( in the hope to get a glimpse of the northern lights)

Struggling to save his family's business before its taken over by the big sharks for money Gage is all focused and got no time for distractions. But when he sees Aurora in her element and so mesmerized by the nature, the raw beauty, the wildlife and the place he calls home, he couldn't help but fall for her.

But with both having their dreams and duty to be fulfilled will they give their love a chance, especially when they both have got their hearts broken recently?


This one is a light book with a soothing pace and clean romance that will serve as a perfect pallet cleanser between your heavy reads with such a breathtaking backdrop that will sweep you off your feet and make you plan your next trip to Alaska. Also Gage's family is so much warm and fun with the bickering between the siblings and the warm and cozy hugs from the parents.


If you are in the mood of a light, cozy romance set in the scenic beauty of Alaskan wilderness this should be your pick. A little predictable but with a charm you can't resist.



Toodles








Profile Image for Katrinalee.
438 reviews6 followers
August 24, 2025
Under the Northern Lights is a charming, wholesome, cozy romance with the kind of predictability readers purposely choose. Two people from different locations who are super-focused on their careers cross paths and find themselves falling in love. It's not exactly a slow burn. More like a slow warming. Being immersed in the postcard-perfect Alaskan wilderness is lovely. But I had a hard time caring about the story. 

When I think of a rescue from a mud slide in Alaska I think of something more exciting than a dripping wet meet-cute in a diner. My expectations weren't quite met. It really was a lovely meet-cute. And who wouldn't want to be swept up by a ruggedly handsome and thoughtful man who bundles you into his float plane to fly to his family's fishing camp on an Alaskan island? Gage is the perfect book boyfriend, albeit quite narrow-minded about “city women.” Aurora is a bit too maudlin for my preferences, yet likable enough. 

This book is perfect for a cozy afternoon of light reading. Kudos to the beautiful cover art.

Thank you to NetGalley for and advance copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Profile Image for Samantha.
121 reviews4 followers
September 8, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and BooksGoSocial for this ARC of Under the Northern Lights by Lindsey Brookes! This book is a cute, easy to read romance, that's perfect for anyone looking for an escape. You'll definitely be left wanting to take a trip out to visit Alaska. I think that speaks to how well Lindsey Brookes wrote this setting!

This is a cozy and charming romance that I definitely recommend to anyone who wants a book that won't surprise you too much, but instead will be the comfortable romantic story that leaves you feeling better than when you started. Aurora Daniels and Gage Weston are a sweet couple with believable chemistry. I loved Gage's family as well, and their role in his life. I think this book is perfect for people who want a romance without too much conflict. There really wasn't actually that much at all. Aurora and Gage have things they have to deal with, but they figure out how to deal with them well enough. Overall, just a feel-good story!

This is the first book by Lindsey Brookes that I've ever read, but I'll absolutely be checking out more of her work because this was such a well done story!
73 reviews
August 4, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️:

Such a cute read! This book was short and sweet while being easy to read! I managed to get through it in a few hours.

I strongly believe that Aurora and Gage deserve the world and I love that they eventually came to their senses regarding each other. Everyone could see they were meant to be and that they were intially denying their feelings. I did appreciate how neither one tried to convince the other to give up their dream/life to be with the other. They were both very self-aware characters and it was refreshing to read!

I love the setting in Alaska and the remote location, I feel like big cities are the main setting in books nowadays so this was a very nice change. Aurora got to see her moose!

There were times the dialogue felt a bit awkward between characters but I still really enjoyed reading this story!

I definitely hope we see a series continuation that may or may not be between Gage’s brother and Aurora’s friend! I’d love to come back to Alaska for that book!

Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Bisi Miyebi.
88 reviews2 followers
August 13, 2025
I got the ARC from NetGalley and fell in love with the cover immediately 🥰. Thank you NetGalley 😘. Here goes my review…

Under The Northern Lights sets out to deliver a heartwarming romance framed by a picturesque setting. Lindsey Brookes’ writing is light and easy to follow, making it accessible for readers seeking a straightforward, low-stakes love story.

However, while the novel captures moments of charm, it lacks the depth and narrative tension that often keep romance readers invested. The storyline unfolds predictably and doesn’t quite offer the emotional layers or plot turns that could elevate it beyond surface-level sweetness. The dialogue and romantic exchanges, though well-meaning, lean heavily on familiar tropes, which may not appeal to readers looking for something fresh or dynamic in the genre.

This is a book best suited for those who enjoy gentle, uncomplicated romances and are content with a light, cozy read without much drama or intrigue. For readers seeking a more engaging or richly woven romantic journey, it may feel a little too safe.

I rate it a 6 out of 10
Profile Image for Rosa DA.
58 reviews
August 12, 2025
Aurora is a wildlife photographer that takes a work trip to Alaska after a failed engagement. Aurora misses her flight back home due to a mudslide, and Gage, a floatplane pilot and owner of a fishing resort, takes her to his family resort in Conley Island, Alaska. Aurora and Gage have an instant chemistry. What should have been a one night stay, turns into a week stay where Aurora discovers the magic of this little island in Alaska, bonds with his family and falls in love with Gage.

Under the Northern lights is a heartwarming story that feels like a Hallmark Christmas movie. It is a predictable happily ever after story that uplifts you while reading it. It has great supporting characters and stunning descriptions of Alaska that will make you want to book a trip there. I hope Lindsey Brookes makes this book a series and writes a second book about Reed.

Thanks NetGalley and Harpeth Road for sending this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Lynn.
566 reviews3 followers
August 26, 2025
Aurora Daniels is in Alaska. It’s been her dream to photograph the beautiful place her parents met and fell in love. If she can capture just the right photos it could mean a job offer that she has only dreamed about. When she finds herself delayed because of a storm, she finds herself in a dreamy little cottage surrounded by the Weston family on a small island. As she tours the island with the rugged Gage Weston, her photographs take on a new meaning and soon Aurora is faced with a decision.

I adored this novel by Lindsey Brooks. The characters were so lovable and her description of Alaska felt like I was there myself. The story flowed so seamlessly and I found it hard to put it down wanting to follow Aurora and Gage on their next adventure. My thanks to Harpeth Road publishing, the author Lindsey Brooks who graciously gifted me an advanced copy which I read and reviewed voluntarily. Grab a blanket and curl up with this feel good cozy romance set in beautiful Alaska.
Profile Image for MJ Hitchener.
27 reviews1 follower
August 30, 2025
What an emotional rollercoaster. I can’t even begin to explain the feelings I’ve gone through with this book. I’ve laughed, I’ve cried, I’ve sat reading this with the biggest grin on my face.

Though it seemed like quite a short story compared to others I’ve read it was full of comedy, romance, adventure and nostalgia.

I’ve fallen in love.. I’m just obsessed. Just reading it made me feel like I’d been transported there and that I was living on the island it’s set on. It was the perfect romance story and makes you realise that dreams can come true and sometimes you just need to follow your heart.

I had to give this 5* just for how it made me feel, it reminded me of the times I used to spend with my family and I know just how short life is so reading this was really close to home for me in a lot of ways.
Profile Image for Gigi Glass.
203 reviews
August 30, 2025
A short, sweet romance that made me want to move to Alaska. There was clearly so much love in this story, love of romance, family, and the wilderness which really jumped off the page. The focus on the wilderness and the mutual love of the Alaskan wild made the insta love between the two MCs more believable. Opposites can sometimes attract but often having a mutual love and respect for each others’ passions can make the strongest foundation. I also really loved how Aurora’s zest for life and the wilds made Gage newly appreciate some of the beauty he previously took for granted. It was a short and light story but I still enjoyed it. Only main note was sometimes POV switching got a bit wonky, I’m not sure if that was edited out for final publish.


Thank you Harpeth Road Press for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Aleshia Chalklen.
135 reviews3 followers
August 13, 2025
ARC REVIEW: ARC received from Netgalley

Everything in life happens for a reason, whether it be good, bad or downright ugly. Sometimes life can throw you a curve ball and in the next instant create the opportunity for a new path.

Our leading lady experiences a little bit of an unorthodox meet cute with a floatplane pilot and two worlds collide in the nicest of ways. Cue some Alaskan hospitality and the connection grows.

This cute romance is perfect if you're looking for something with cosy vibes and something that makes you feel all warm and gooey on the inside. Was it a little predictable yea.....but who cares, it was everything it needed to be. Also perfect for those who prefer their spice to be tension filled as opposed to smut.
1,520 reviews10 followers
August 22, 2025
Under the Northern Lights by Lindsey Brookes is a lovely novel. This book’s description said it was good for fans of Debbie Macomber and I agree. It is hard to find quality, sweet romances like this today. I loved the novel and the setting in Alaska. I picked up this book because I was traveling in Alaska. I’m so glad that I did. This author is new to me but I look forward to reading more of her works in the future. This book is beautifully written with realistic family dynamics and gorgeous setting descriptions that are well balanced and do not overwhelm the plot line. Great novel overall. I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher with no obligations. These opinions are entirely my own.
Profile Image for Terri.
2,482 reviews52 followers
August 26, 2025
4.5 stars. Aurora and Gage are attracted to each other but have little chance of a future together. Aurora is seeking her dream job as a nature photographer, which will require extensive travel, and Gage is trying to save his family's fishing resort on an Alaskan island. Aurora loves everything about where Gage lives, including his family.

If you need to escape to a different place for a while, this may be the perfect book for you. It provides a slow burn romance and descriptions of amazing sights and wildlife in Alaska. The author did a great job of describing places and things to make you feel like you are seeing them in person. I really enjoyed the escapism provided by the story.

Thanks to Books Go Social for the digital copy. All thoughts are my own.
Profile Image for Elizabeth.
1,028 reviews25 followers
August 31, 2025
This story made me want to pack a bag and take a trip to Alaska! At first, the cover totally grabbed me in! With what should have been her honeymoon, Aurora finds herself on a photography job which hasn't gone to plan. After missing her flight back to Seattle, Aurora is offered a room at an island resort by a local floatplane pilot. Gage and his family were so sweet and welcoming to Aurora and showing her their little island home. Lindsey Brookes was detailed with her descriptions of the setting and it felt as if I was watching it come alive on the page. I loved Aurora and Gage's growing relationship, along with having their own personal growth. Thank you to Harpeth Road for an advanced copy! All thoughts and opinions are my own!
Profile Image for lin.
66 reviews
September 20, 2025
I was born and raised in Alaska and every time I see a romance book set in Alaska I know I have to read it! Thank you, NetGalley, for the opportunity of reading Under the Northern Lights as an eARC in exchange for my honest review.

The author, Lindsey Brookes, did an excellent job writing about the Southeast Alaska setting. I immediately felt transported to Juneau. What didn't work well for me was the romance between Aurora and Gage.

This is a squeaky clean light romance novel. I usually prefer a little bit of spice, but I also enjoy sweet and swoony romance novels. Keywords - SWEET and SWOONY. I honestly didn't feel any swoon between Aurora and Gage, in fact there were a couple cringe-worthy moments. He gave her rain boots to wear that were so huge and clunky that he had to give her a piggy back ride to the main lodge? CRINGE. Their first kiss was in vicinity of his entire family? Not romantic at all. It was like these main characters were preteens.

Also, the fact that Gage's ex was from Anchorage but couldn't hack it more than 3 days on the island is absolutely insane to me. I think the author could have come up with a better excuse. It would have made more sense if this ex wasn't even from Alaska. Aurora was pretty pitiful and opened up her emotional baggage right from the get go.

The well-written Alaska setting and Gage's family relationships were the wins for me in this novel. If you're looking for a low stakes romance novel and want to be mentally transported to Alaska, you'll probably enjoy it.
Profile Image for Liralen.
3,509 reviews298 followers
August 23, 2025
Sometimes an opportunity presents itself, and you just have to take it. For Aurora in Under the Northern Lights, that's a trip to Alaska...and then a detour off the beaten path to visit a fishing retreat. For me, though, it was that I saw several "northern lights" books in short succession...and decided that I had to read them all. This is the first, with two or three yet to come.

This makes for what I think of as a bread-and-butter romance—straightforward, not super complex, a quick read that doesn't require too much brainpower. (Not a criticism...we all need some cotton candy for the brain sometimes!) It's a little saccharine for my tastes (uses of the word "sweet": 18), with hero and heroine both immediately falling for each other and unhesitatingly opening up about sore spots in their lives, but I appreciated that the primary conflict was external, with both characters interested but knowing that geographical distance is a real and practical impediment. There are a lot of elements that romance readers will be familiar with (loving/meddling family that is way too vocal with their opinions; heroine whose primary flaw is that she's clumsy...actually, not even clumsy, she just trips a couple of times), but the setting is used to a satisfying degree.

There's room left in the book for other characters to have romances in future books—something with intentional series potential, I think! If there are further books, I'd like to see the characters work a bit harder to pass the Bechdel test; they technically do here, but as far as I'm concerned, if something passes the Bechdel test on a technicality then it hasn't actually passed. But it's always nice to see romance in which it's all basically good people who are doing their best to figure it out, including doing their best to communicate. A nice quick read for a summer afternoon.

Thanks to the author and publisher for providing a review copy through NetGalley.
Profile Image for Anne.
693 reviews30 followers
August 13, 2025
Aurora is a wildlife photographer who gets opportunities to take pictures for magazines. Currently, she is in Alaska taking pictures for the magazine of her dreams. After taking a tour to capture the pictures she is looking for, she misses her flight due to the weather. The tour guide takes her to a friend’s restaurant to warm up. Aurora meets Gage. Will this blossom into something more?

This heart-warming story will take you on an adventure in Alaska. It’s a quick read that will give you warm fuzzy feelings with a happy ending! A great book to read with a cup of tea!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
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145 reviews2 followers
October 5, 2025
I am conveniently back in the land of northern lights itself and have finished reading Under the Northern Lights by Lindsey Brookes.

This was a heartwarming, happily-ever-after romance story of an award-winning wildlife photographer who meets her rugged, wild, bush pilot Alaska match during an assignment that took an unexpected turn.

This book was like your G rated The Simple Wild type of closed-door romance with its cheesy, Hallmark-like vibes. But, one thing is for sure, you will fall in love with Alaska and find yourself wanting to book a quiet reading retreat in a remote cozy cabin!

🙏Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for a gifted advanced electronic copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Ms Zou.
259 reviews
July 31, 2025
I was so excited when I saw this book pop up. Alaskan romances are some of my absolute favorites to read, and this one was incredibly good! Aurora is a wildlife photographer on an assignment in Alaska when she meets Gage, a fishing retreat owner. He is immediately intrigued by her, and she follows later. The small town, cozy vibes of this story are amazing and the ending definitely made me tear up. Beautiful story!
Thank you to Netgalley and BooksGoSocial for the opportunity to read this e-arc.
Profile Image for Laura.
511 reviews16 followers
August 4, 2025
If you are looking for a cozy fall romance this book definitely hits all the marks.

Freelance Aurora Daniels is on the trip of a lifetime to Alaska on assignment for the job of her dreams. She runs into Gage Weston, a float plane pilot trying to save his families fishing retreat. The story that ensues is sweet and heartfelt. I loved all of the characters in this book. Each person in Gage's family really made you fall in love with them and the descriptions of the Alaskan wilderness made you want to be there.

Thank you so much to Netgalley and BooksGoSocial for the ARC.
Profile Image for Emily Anne.
284 reviews4 followers
August 12, 2025
This is a sweet romance that doesn't get any spicier than kisses and sometimes that's just the speed a person wants. Both main characters are the rugged outdoor type and if I was picturing a specific rugged outdoorsman in my mind while reading, you can't blame me. The writer did a good job of making Alaska seem romantic. I also particularly liked the ending as it was exactly the one I was hoping for. The book takes between 8-12 hours to read depending on speed. I received a free digital ARC to review.
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