Porch Lights

By: Dorothea Benton Frank

Narrated by: Robin Miles

When Jimmy McMullen, a fireman with the NYFD, is killed in the line of duty, his wife, Jackie, and 10-year-old son, Charlie, are devastated. Charlie idolized his dad, and now the outgoing, curious boy has become quiet and reserved. Trusting in the healing power of family, Jackie decides to return to her childhood home on Sullivan's Island.

Awaiting them is Annie Britt, the family matriarch who has kept the porch lights on to welcome them home. Captivated by the island's alluring natural charms and inspired by colorful Lowcountry lore, mother, daughter, and grandson will share a memorable, illuminating summer. Told in Annie and Jackie's alternating voices, and filled with Dorothea Benton Frank's charming wit, indelible poignancy, and hallmark themes, Porch Lights is a triumph from "the queen of Southern fiction" (Charlotte Observer).

©2012 Dorothea Benton Frank (P)2012 HarperCollins Publisher

everything low country

Sullivan's Island is my all time DBF favorite, but Porch Lights is just as sweet! Being southern myself, I appreciate all the details referring to the south. The accents can be a bit much, but overall was a great listen!

I want to live in Sullivans Island

When I first started reading the story I thought it was going to be boring, but it was anything but boring. I fell in love with the characters, the family, and of course Sullivans Island. “Porch Lights” is another beautifully written book by Dorothea Benton.

Another WINNER!!!!!!!!!!!

What did you love best about Porch Lights?

The descriptions of the Island life, made me miss living there. The story line was done exceptionally well, DBF does not disappoint in any way. I love the inclusion of so much history told in true southern story teller fashion. I couldn’t stop listening. A very moving story with out any sappiness.

Who was your favorite character and why?

Loved Annie and Deb's friendship. The gift of a true friend was warmly presented.

What aspect of Robin Miles’s performance would you have changed?

The Narrator would leave character and would speak in an accent that wasn't southern for sure. It was only slightly annoying. I would not seek her out in future books.

My Second Listen

I've just finished Porch Lights for the second time. I love the setting on the porch at the beach and the story!

Dorthea Benton, frank never disappoints

Another great book by Dorothea Benton Frank. Good story about family, friends and the south. When you’re looking for a good read, you can’t go wrong with her books.

Very Enjoyable

Absolutely loved listening to this story...funny sweet and and sad st times..each character brought something special to this story..
thsnk-you Ms. Frank for another lovely story.

Thoroughly enjoyed this book

Another winner by DBF! Good story, laughs, tears, more laughs, and simply an easy, fun, and sweet read. Sometimes, Jackie seemed to lapse into her mother’s voice, but it wasn’t something I wanted to knock off a star. Thoroughly enjoyed.

Enjoyable although predictable

I have been a fan of Dorothea Benton Frank for a long time and this book was just as delightful as her other books. Although the plot is predictable, it was an entertaining read, leaving the reader with a good feeling throughout the book. I have to give it a thumbs up. Thanks for another good read.

Drama, Mixed with Sarcasm...I Loved It.

Would you listen to Porch Lights again? Why?

Yes, this is one of the few books I have listened to that I would listen to again. I loved the characters, the description of the scenery and narrator. I was smiling all the way to work each day.

What did you like best about this story?

Ann's sarcastic attitude, mixed with her proper Southern style.

Which character – as performed by Robin Miles – was your favorite?

The cat's mother.

If you could rename Porch Lights, what would you call it?

I would rename it. Porch Lights is perfect.

Any additional comments?

I can't wait to hear other books read by Robin Miles.

Fantastic

great story. makes me want to read Edgar Allan Poe. dorothea is always and forever my favorite author.