Love in the Light: A Musical Novel

This book made me really desire the best for the main characters and that they would see their relationship develop into a wonderful love story. The setting in the lighthouse lends a unique and picturesque place for them to share their feelings. Their interaction with memorable side-characters helped to move the story along. Moments of tension with their boisterous boss cause concerns for their personal and professional lives which culminate in an exciting finale to the novel. The character development captures the feeling of young love and the hope that one could have in their own life. It's a gentle, yet dynamic, novel that is extremely enjoyable. The music and songs are delightful and enhance the story.

Love in the light is an endearing novel that cleverly includes music and songs throughout that draws you into a beautiful love story. Luke created characters with layers and vulnerabilities that unfolded before our eyes woven into a thoughtfully written story.

Defiant to the darkness in our daily life, “love in the light” is a beautiful debut novel that’s really in a class of its own the original composition music has the story dancing off the page. I found it incredibly heartwarming and moving, the characters have their internal battles to conquer and you’ll find yourself rooting for them and getting hooked on each characters unique voice. It’s one of the best displays I’ve seen of a neurodivergent character and how their style of thinking is a strength that grows with the acceptance and love they discover in this book.

Love in the Light by Luke McQuillan is unlike anything I have ever read before. It is a masterpiece of immersive storytelling that bridges the gap between literature and Broadway/movie musicals. When two men share a lighthouse as company housing through their employer, what starts as uncertainty and doubt gives way to a meaningful relationship that fosters self-acceptance, healing, and the forging of chosen familial bonds. Set against the backdrop of the thirties, when being queer could land you in prison or a sanitarium, Love in the Light shines a spotlight on the indomitable human spirit and power of love. It is a feel-good narrative that is so desperately needed in our current era. McQuallin's debut novel is lovingly crafted; evoking the awe and wonder of old-school musicals of the golden age of the silver screen. It is a grand and sweeping tale, punctuated by stellar songwriting and composition that brilliantly mimics the MGM era of musical greats. Yes, there are songs in this book, and McQuallin is not one to rest on his laurels. Instead of simply writing out lyrics when the cast of memorable characters burst into song, he has taken the extra step to write, compose, and perform the songs which you can listen to via links peppered throughout the story. Those familiar with the author's social media accounts will undoubtedly find the "casting" of one particular character very familiar. The music is timed perfectly so that there are musical interludes when reading…

The beginning of the New Deal era in the book and in the writing/music combo. The sensory details pull the reader in as Alfred experiences his own new deal. Love. He's not sure what is happening, but cannot fight the attraction to the recluse lighthouse keeper. James has been hurt before and is afraid to trust anyone with his heart. The alternating points-of-view between Alfred and James allow the reader to understand each character's feelings, while they are kept in the dark searching for the light. The characters and plot are well-developed, but the highlight of the novel is the music. What a treat to read the beautiful prose and listen to the original songs performed by the author. Luke McQuillan is an amazing writer and a talented singer. Don't pass up this one-of-a-kind musical novel that gives the reader a cinematic experience.