Northern Twilight

The Highlands #5

by Samantha Young

She’s the girl he left behind. He’s the boy she tried to forget. But after seven years apart, one passionately reckless night will tie them together forever …

As teenagers, Callie Ironside and Lewis Adair were inseparable. So much so, Lewis still can’t work out where it all went horribly wrong, or why he’s spent the last seven years in London away from the love of his life.

Callie knows exactly where it all went wrong and while she tried to move on—learning pastry techniques in Paris and dating French men—returning home to Ardnoch to work in her mother’s bakery only reminds her of the future she lost with Lewis.

But when a visit to London brings them unexpectedly together, the passion, pain and animosity between them leads to a one-night stand. For Lewis, it’s the beginning of winning Callie and his life in Ardnoch back. For Callie, it’s a mistake that’s shaken up the devastating heartbreak she fought hard to forget. However, Lewis is determined to fight for her, and proves it when their night together results in more than just unresolved feelings.

As they come to grips with impending parenthood and the mistakes they’ve both made, Callie and Lewis will not only have to decide to fight for a love that has endured so many years apart, but a mysterious adversary who seems intent on destroying the future they’re building together.

Genres: Romance, Second Chance, Contemporary Romance, Friends To Lovers, Romantic Suspense, Contemporary, Small Town Romance

354 pages, Kindle Edition

First published August 8, 2024

About the author

Samantha is a New York Times, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal bestselling author and a Goodreads Choice Awards Nominee. Samantha has written over 60 books and is published in 31 countries. She writes emotional and angsty romance, often set where she resides—in her beloved home country Scotland. Samantha splits her time between her family, writing and chasing after two very mischievous cavapoos.

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Reviews

[Lilyya ♡ · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars

“I love you. always have. always will.”

I have a profound affinity for second-gen stories, and I was delighted to revisit the picturesque Highlands setting with ‘Northern Twilight’. the narrative revolves around Callie and Lewis, two childhood friends who morphed their relationship into more by their 16th birthday only to reach a breaking point by the end of their highschool journey. seven years later, they met again carrying a baggage of unresolved emotions and lingering heartache. as they navigate their interactions, the tension builds, culminating in a fiery night that sets the stage for a second chance at love that Callie is not especially prone to. however, when Lewis returns to their home town, it becomes clear that nothing can entrave his resolve to reclaim what they once shared.

I was thoroughly under the spell of the poignant romance of Callie and Lewis, whose bittersweet tale of rekindled love was an emotional roller coaster. what struck me as particularly noteworthy was the author's deliberate choice to avoid the trope of the 'womanizing male character' between Callie and Lewis's breakup. Instead, Lewis is painted as a romantic at heart, so deeply enamored with his first love that he finds himself unable to move on. i honestly think that this nuanced portrayal adds depth to his character, making him a more lovable and sympathetic figure. Callie, on the other hand, is a comforting and endearing protagonist, personified with her highs and lows that are deeply relatable, i found myself rooting for her throughout the storytelling. i think i might have found a new favorite book by Samantha Young in this read. their story is to phrase it simply: memorable.

many thanks to Valentine PR for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Rachel L · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars

More and more brain candy for me.

Second chance romance between an architect and a baker with a smidge of mystery thrown in? I got to turn off my brain and have a good time.

That being said this would have been 4 stars if it wasn't so predictable.

[Em (semi-hiatus) · Rating 1 out of 5]

Rating it one star is generous. The heroine is defined entirely by the hero and lacks depth and growth. She’s so naive that she refuses to explore future opportunities, like a frog in a well or a big fish in a small pond. She breaks up with the hero for wanting to consider advancing his career. Prior to their relationship, the hero was so “in love” with her that he made out with another girl. The plot rehashes the author’s previous works, using trauma as a plot twist and a crutch for poorly developed characters. Neither of them has any personality. Even after their breakup, the heroine remains pathetic and whiny; instead of addressing/working on her self-esteem, daddy issues, and other problems. She simply whines, moans, and projects her insecurities onto the hero. The hero is equally pitiful and pathetic. When they reconnected after eight years, he had the nerve to say that if the heroine didn’t want him ogling her, she shouldn’t have dressed or worn shoes like that. Is that supposed to be sexy? On top of that, he used old and likely expired condoms for their ONS, which led to their so-called accidental pregnancy. During it, when they give their relationship another try, she wants to take things slow but gets angry when the hero agrees and follows that pace. You just can’t win with this clown of a heroine. Every bit of progress in their relationship is driven by circumstances that force them into a corner, not by their own free will or readiness.

[Jessica · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars

Such a great angsty second chance romance!!!

In the beginning, we know these two were madly in love as teens, but life happened and they went their separate ways. Now, they're both back in their home town after seven years and spend a night together before realizing they're both back for good and will have to be around each other. There was so much angst in this one because they both still cared so deeply for one another, but they were still hurt over what had happened in their past.

This does have surprise pregnancy, so they are both forced to acknowledge past mistakes and feelings now that a child is on the way. The family in here was great and I just love this world and the highlands setting so much!

I couldn't recommend this series enough!!

[Jenn (The Book Refuge) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excuse me, I can't talk right now, I'm lost in Scotland and I don't want to come back.

Now, being lost there isn't anything new for me as it's one of my favorite settings for a romance. There's just something about it. Samantha Young and the narrators do such a great job of putting me right there and I was thriving!

This type of Second Chance romance has possibilities for all kinds of pitfalls and once the whole picture for the original break up comes into view... I won't pretend I wasn't a bit nervous. Because Lewis was pretty much perfect for me and I didn't know if Callie was gonna pull off her end of relationship for me. Yet, I find myself so pleasantly surprised.

There was just something about their misunderstanding that, while frustrating, did feel very real. I can see where it went wrong and their age and inexperience and fear got the better of them. However, there was a journey they needed to both go on and they would not be who they are now without it.

I also think that the way the author shows us the past was very well done. I'm not a big fan of too many flashbacks in a Second Chance... I don't want to spend too much time in the past and watching them break. However, I think there was a bit of that and then we focused on the future.

Also, this is an Accidental Pregnancy and it is one of my favorite kinds. With a hero who is SO in from the jump. That's all I'll say. It was adorable though. With both of them ready to take on this new adventure together.

Finally, Lewis ya'll. LEWIS!!!! He has so many things I adore in a hero. He had me swooning so many times. Ahhhh! I can't wait for you to experience him.

The narration from Shane East and Zara Hampton-Brown, in full Scottish Brogue is absolutely delightful. I listened to this all in one sitting. I couldn't stop. They made it so addicting. Highly recommend the audio version.

5 stars
3 on the spice scale

*Thank you to Must Love Audio and the Author for an ALC of this title.*

[Syndi · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have confession to make. I actually did not want to read Northern Twilight. I wanted to skip Lewis and Callie's story. Because I did not like the characters on previous book.

But Miss Young proves me wrong. This book is sweet. So sweet and cheesy and I do like my romance to be cheesy. Both Lewis and Callie proves I was wrong about them. They are adorable.

4 stars

[MELISSA *Mel Reader* · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 Stars!
(ARC provided by author)

Callie Ironside moved to a small village in the Scottish Highlands when she was ten years old, and it’s felt like home ever since. Her best friend turned high school sweetheart Lewis Adair was the love of her life. She was sure he would be a big part of her future, and then her entire world fell apart when he broke her heart. She’s spent the last three years in Paris perfecting her passion of creating decadent desserts, and now it’s time to return home to work with her mum in their bakery. Being back in Ardnoch reminded her of her ex. Then an unexpected trip to London has them crossing paths again. It’s been seven years, but their attraction is still just as strong. They share one unforgettable night together, but that’s all it can ever be. Then her entire life is changed in an instant, and the guy who was once the most important person in her life is back in her orbit.

Lewis Adair is a twenty five year old bachelor who’s accomplished everything he set out to do in London. When he runs into the girl he left behind, he realizes he wants another chance. It was always so effortless and easy between them, and she still felt perfect in his arms. He was a man with regrets, and determined to win her back. He’s prepared to fight for Callie, but can he convince her he can still be her forever love?

Northern Twilight by Samantha Young is the fifth book in the Highlands series. It’s an emotional, swoony, small town, first loves, surprise pregnancy, friends to lovers romance about family, friendship, beautiful connections and second chances. I have loved watching these characters relationship evolve and Lewis and Callie all grown up are pure fire. I hope we get Eilidh’s story next! <333



***NOW AVAILABLE***
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CJ2N7NDV?...

[Bookphenomena (Micky) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Headlines:
Second generation
First loves, forever love
Unexpected family

Callie and Lewis were not new to fans of the Adair-Highlands series but now we got to see them as adults. Told mostly in the now but with some past chapters when they were 17/18 years old, we got to find out about why their first love crashed and burned. In the now, these two still longed for one another but to some degree, they were in denial about that to themselves.

The angst in this story was spot on, tension abounded but eased at times, the chemistry was so good and my favourite scene was after Eilidh’s wrap party, oh my 🔥🔥. Seeing these two back in Ardmoch and Callie at her wee cakery (I just want to visit and sample) brought that sense of home. I especially enjoyed seeing the parents back in this story, how they’d evolved in their lives, their relationships with their adult children.

The suspense had a good balance with the rest of the plot and didn’t come from the direction I thought. I was shouting into the screen, I could see something bad coming. The surprise part of the plot was lovely and I enjoyed seeing the character navigating challenges.

I would very much like to live in Lewis’ house, the setting, the location…yes please!

I'm not ready for this series to come to an end. I’m not sure how many we have to go but I think Eilidh must be next and I like who I think her coupling will be. I love the comfort and happiness I get from reading this series and I have no chill reading them.

Thank you to the author for the review copy; my opinion is unaffected by the provision of an arc.

[Christi (christireadsalot) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Northern Twilight is the 5th book in the Highlands series from Samantha Young and I’ve loved this entire series so much! This one is a small town, first love, childhood sweethearts, friends to lovers turned enemies to lovers, second chance, and accidental pregnancy (after a one night stand)!

This book has pretty much all of my favorite tropes! And I really loved that it’s a 2nd generation story too! The heroine’s mom’s book was Beyond the Thistles (book 1 in this series) and the hero’s parents have a book in the Adair series. Callie and Lewis grew up around one another and fell in love, but their young love ended and now it’s 7 years later! This is very much an “it’s always been you” story, both have lived life apart but have always thought of one another. Now they’re back in the same town and end up sharing a hot night together!

I loved seeing the flashbacks, it really helped show the bond these two have! Plus her relationship with her mom was the best. Both of their families appearances was so much fun, especially since it was a 2nd gen story! I was just swept up with this couple, their second chance, how all-in he was after finding out they’re pregnant, and seeing all their families’ appearances!

This is just such a solid series and I really recommend on audio especially for the fabulous Scotland vibes. Audiobook is narrated by Shane East and Zara Hampton-Brown! I received an audio ALC, all thoughts in this review are my own.

[Alba and Her Secrets..♥ · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 'Always only ever you' Stars!
ARC provided via Valentine PR in exchange for an honest review.


For anyone who has been following the Adairs and the two book series around them and the highlands, we all have been waiting for this story for a while. Lewis and Callie are all grown up now and it’s time for these two to find their way back to each other. As always, Samantha Young delivers another wonderful addition to her newest series, this time with a love story that has been highly anticipated by her fans, including myself.

So, Northern Twilight is the fifth installment in Young’s The Highlands series and, as I said, it tells the story of Callie Ironside and Lewis Adair. Going back and forth between past and present, we discover their intense connection starting with an adorable friendship, an unforgettable first love and also their first heartbreak. Seven years go by and now, after seeing each other again, Callie and Lewis’s story leads to a passionate night that happens to turn into a surprise pregnancy. Lewis is now more than decided to get his Callie back and he will stop at nothing, even when mysterious things start to happen around them.

“I’ve missed you so much, mo chridhe.”
Her light breathing was the only answer.
“But I won’t need to miss you anymore,” I promised, determination filling me.

This book just has so many of my favorite troupes, including second chance romance. It also happens to be a second generation and surprise pregnancy one so I am not mad about it. As mentioned, we all have been waiting for these two to get their story told and Samantha did not fail delivering it. As the other books in the series, it gets emotional, steamy, with a little bit of suspense and a whole lot of interactions with the characters we all love. I just loved seeing the development of Lewis and Callie’s story, their past and present and how that turns into an unbreakable bond. I do have to say I wish it didn’t take as long for them to resolve their past issues but I also understand why it took a while for both of them to find their way back to each other.

Once he’s gazed upon her, a man is forever changed.

Therefore, I am rating Northern Twilight with 4 STARS. We finally got the happy ever after for Lewis and Callie and Samantha did a very good job with their love story. I really enjoyed seeing and reading about their past and present and how Samantha narrated their love story after seven years apart and a whole lot of heartbreak. I do hope the next book is about Eilidh and Fyfe, all those teases about them have me so excited to see if they end up together!

[Monica P. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sometimes certain books come around that just grip and suck you in from the very beginning and you just don’t want to let go. This is one of them, when I tell you that I haven’t read a kindle book this fast in awhile, I mean it. But just the first 70% alone I read in one sitting. That’s huge!

The tension, the romance, the surprises, the second gen, it was all so perfect! I didn’t think something would top Through the Glen for me in this series and boy was I wrong. Sam outdid herself with Northern Twilight! Callie and Lewis were just perfection together! The emotional maturity we see happening from when they were young to how they are now was so well written. I’m so ready for all these next gen books by Sam! The building up she did for the next book was so good and I can’t wait!

Thank you so much Sam for the arc :)

[✰ Bianca ✰ BJ's Book Blog ✰ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Callie + Lewis

Second Generation here we come!
Callie and Lewis have been in love since they were kids.
But seven years ago they broke up and now hate each other.
They still love each other - obviously - but of course it won't be easy to fight for that love while hating each other and with Lewis living in London and Callie back home in Ardnoch.
But one night at his sister's party changes everything...

══════════════════




The next book in Sam's Highland series! This time we jump ahead in time a bit. Lewis and Callie are all grown up! He's an architect in London and she's back home from Paris to work in her mom's bakery!
We go back in time a few times to see how they got together and how they broke up.
But mostly we watch them fall back in love and dealing with being back home. Back home with all the Adairs and old friends and enemies...and all the things.
And like in all the Adair and Highland books we have this tiny suspensy mystery in here too.

From the covers to the final words ... Sam's Scotland books are just beautiful!
Callie and Lewis got on my nerves a tiny bit here and there for being too immature. Just talk to each other ... jeez!
But I loved reading this. It was so sweet and sexy and adorable and funny and we got to see ALL the people again.
Can't wait to see what will happen with Eilidh in the next book! Forever the Highlands

NORTHERN TWLILIGHT was another beautiful book in the Highland Series!
Sweet and funny and sexy and just adorable!
Run to your nearest bookdealer for your own grown-up Lewis - this one is MINE!

⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
CLICK >HERE< TO BUY THE BOOK
if you can’t click on the buy-links below!


💜 💜

[Joana (joanasbookshelf) · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars
This book is everything I needed!! Samantha Young did it again. She's truly incredible and I won't stop recommending her books.
This is the 5th book in The Highlands series but I 100% recommend you reading The Adair series (MMC parents story is there!!! and you get to see baby Lewis) and also read the entire The Highlands series (book 1 is the FMC mom's story).
Northern Twilight is a "it was always you", small town, friends to lovers to strangers to lovers, second chance with accidental pregnancy (after a spicy one night stand).
Lewis and Callie are so incredible and so well written, especially because you've met them before, that I could feel that they are real people.
I loved absolutely everything about this book and I will continue to rave about it to everyone.

If you haven't read any book by Samantha Young, this is your sign to do it!!!!

Thank you Samantha Young and Valentine PR for the ARC.

[aleerless · Rating 4 out of 5]

kinda expected more, but it still hits though

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

The author has done it again, I know that every time I start one of her books I’m going to get a five star read but somehow I’m always a little surprised when it happens?! Haha I don’t even know but you guys, this was SO good! I wasn’t sure how weird it would be to have Callie & Lewis all grown up but I shouldn’t have worried for a second because the author did an amazing job with their story. The time spent in flashbacks from when they were dating as teenagers was adorable and showed just how much history these two have, it made the stakes that much higher as adults and I was so invested in their HEA. Their lifelong relationship made their connection so intense and special and that translated to their passion so freaking well. Seeing their families together so much in this one was adorable and then the author always manages to add some crazy action and tension to up the stakes even higher making this yet another super well rounded installment to one of my very favorite series!

[Quinn's Quippy Quotes · Rating 4 out of 5]

I feel like I've said this with every review for this series, but I just can't get enough of this world! I had sent up a fleeting prayer that we could someday get a Callie and Lewis story, but I never thought that it would come true. Apparently, I have some pull up there :)

Ever since there was any allusion that Callie and Lewis were smitten with each other, I KNEW that I was going to need to see how that would play out. Of course with them being so young, and it being written by Sam, I knew that it wouldn't come without some heartbreak. But have no fear, Sam will have all those Sarah's clutching their pearls in no time. This is your warning, this is definitely NSFW.

These two never lost their steam factor. They weren't a spark, or a flame. Not even an explosion. These two were hot magma erupting from the most violent volcano on Earth. And I would go down in that hell storm again to watch this couple come back together again.

With that said, there is a bit of a cheese factor with this one, so I suggest getting some crackers and wine to go with it, because I still adored it. I'm a sucker for characters getting their perfect ending.

As always, Sam has a way of making me beg for the next one. And I think it's going to be the perfect ending to an amazing series!

[Anna · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really do love me some romantic suspense novels!! Especially when they’re written by Samantha young! This series has been so great and this book, the 5th installment in the highland series, was no less exciting. God I wanna go visit Scotland so bad after reading these books…the way SY writes makes you actually crave it because it feels like you’re already there!!

Callie & Lewis were end game, or so everyone thought. Years after splitting up, these two get reunited and everything gets twisted and turned around. Will these two stand the test of time or are they just not meant to be?!

I will say, I love the families in this series!! Callie’s mom & dad are the freaking BEST! I wish I had a relationship like Callie does with her mom 😭😭😭 they make my heart happy! The only thing I’m grateful for is that I don’t live in a small town bc damn some of these people suck!!

Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Book type: audio (and omfg Shane east &

Tropes:
Second chance
It’s always been you
Surprise baby
Small town
First love
Childhood sweethearts

[Clarissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Callie and Lewis gave great second chance romance! If you read the Adair series then you met these two as kids so it is really exciting to see how their story unfolds in their mid twenties. The story intercuts a few scenes from childhood or their teens when their romance first blossomed to help explain what went wrong. This was unputdownable because each page made me want to keep reading. From the very start I found myself rooting for Callie and Lewis and annoyed by anything that got in their way. This is one of those couples that has to be together. Samantha Young writes this genre extremely well and I can't wait to see which Adair is next to fall.

Callie is a powerful character. She is self assured, independent, physically strong, and also needs more than anything to be loved in a way that is unquestionable. She is soft and vulnerable and also fierce. If you read her mother's book you know her backstory and if you didn't, that is ok because this book covers a lot of it.

Lewis Adair is the prodigal son, he followed in his father's footsteps to become an architect. He's lived through heartbreak and early tragedy and grown into a confident determined man. I love seeing him set his sights on his goal and not giving up.

-- Second gen characters
-- second chance romance
-- childhood sweethearts
-- surprise pregnancy
-- dirty talking MMC
-- it's always been you
-- small town
-- it's always been you
-- fist love
-- childhood sweethearts
-- friends-lovers-enemies-lovers
-- one night stand

[Viv “BookVixen” Gutierrez · Rating 1 out of 5]

Another dumpster fire of dog shit trying pass itself off as a romance!

[AJ · Rating 4 out of 5]

“I know what I want now. I want you, here, for the rest of my life.”

4.5 stars

The fifth book in The Highlands series, this is a second-generation story and a beautiful second chance romance for Lewis and Callie.

Lewis the son of Thane Adair from There with You (Adair Family, #2), and Callie is the daughter of Sloane from Beyond the Thistles (The Highlands, #1). We saw them as children in their parents’ books as they became the best of friends, and as they grew, that friendship turned into soul-deep love, until it heartbreakingly fell apart. Now, it’s seven years later, Lewis is living in London and Callie has just returned to the Highlands after spending 3 years studying in Paris. They are unexpectedly reunited on a night out in London, old passions ignite, and they share an electrifying night together before Callie returns home in the morning,. It’s then that Lewis decides it’s time for him to finally come home and claim his girl.

Aaahh, I love a second chance romance, and they’re childhood sweethearts, so I was in heaven! I already loved little Lewis and little Callie, and seeing them together as teenagers and so in love in flashbacks had me quickly invested in them as a couple.

“I love you,” I whispered.
He sighed and leaned his forehead against mine. “Never stop, he pleaded hoarsely. “Because I’ll never stop loving you.”

Their break-up was nasty, and there’s so much hurt between them. Callie has held on to her anger all these years, but Lewis never let go and still pines for his first love, and wants nothing more than to win her back. He has a battle on his hands to get past Callie’s defences, but she has been left shaken from their night together and he is determined and shamelessly in love (be still my heart), and he has no intention of letting her get away from him again.

“Don’t you dare go all caveman on me, Lewis Adair. I am not some thing to be stolen. I belong only to me.”
“And me.” He pounded his fist passionately against his chest.
I’d never seen him so agitated. Not even when we’d broken up.
A shiver skated down my spine at the blazing look in his eyes.
“As I belong to you.”

It all becomes more complicated when Callie learns that she’s pregnant from their night together. Finally forced to confront Lewis, their past, and their still-strong feelings for each other, everything begins to change for these two, and I was right on board watching them finally start to make their way back to each other.

“Everything is going to change.”
“Not everything,” he promised. “Not the way I love you.”
I let out a shuddering breath. “I have always loved you too. Always only ever you.”

There is a touch of mystery/suspense which, in my opinion, doesn’t really add much to the story, but it doesn’t detract either, it’s just there. I’m here for the romance, and this is a beautiful, sweet, sexy and swoony love story for two people who are so meant to be.

We get to see a bit of progression for the couples from earlier books in this series, as well as the whole extended Adair clan, and God, I love them! The scene with them all together had me laughing out loud, and I love their banter and how close they all are. Lewis’ younger sister Eilidh has also come a long way since we met her as a child, and looks to be the focus of the next book in the series – I’m calling it right now and predict a brother’s best friend romance, and I cannot wait to get my hands on that one!

I loved this book. It’s a sweet story with lots of heart, and such a gorgeous read.

4.5 stars.

An Advanced Review Copy was generously provided by the author for an honest review.

[BookishRaquel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Star Rating: 5/5 ⭐
Heat Rating: 3/5 🌶️
Audiobook: 5/5 🎧

What to Expect:
- Childhood Sweethearts
- First Love
- Friends to Lovers to Enemies to Lovers
- One Night Stand
- Surprise Pregnancy
- Second Chance Romance
- Romantic Suspense
- Small Town Romance
- Meaningful Tattoos

Northern Twilight is the fifth book in the Highlands series. It is the first book I've read or listened to by Samantha Young, and I am honestly kicking myself for not reading her work sooner. I was completely invested in Lewis and Callie's story and could not put this one down. This is one of the best second-chance romance books I've read. Lewis and Callie took me on an emotional journey. Their story broke me and put me back together again.

Lewis and Callie grew up together, and despite spending years apart, they still had a deep-rooted connection. When an unexpected visit to London brings them together, they allow their emotions to take over and share a steamy night together. Although Callie felt their night together was a mistake and tried to bury her feelings for Lewis, their love for each other was undeniable. That night together changed everything, forcing them to face their feelings for each other and decide how to approach life as parents together. Lewis and Callie truly never stopped loving each other, and their journey back to each other was beautiful. Lewis was completely devoted to Callie and did everything he could to care for and protect her.

I absolutely loved being in Ardnoch and getting to know Lewis and Callie. I loved their banter and their delicious spicy moments. I enjoyed the strong family bonds and friendships. Northern Twilight is well-written and has amazing characters. This is the perfect second-chance romance story with a little suspense. I can't wait to read more by Samantha Young.

NARRATION:
Shane East and Zara Hampton-Brown gave phenomenal performances. THE ACCENTS! My goodness! They were so good! This audiobook is on my list of the most entertaining listens of the year. Shane and Zara brought the characters to life, and I felt every single emotion. This audiobook fed my soul, and I highly recommend listening to this story. Kudos to Shane, Zara, and Lyric Audiobooks for this amazing production!

Thanks to Samantha Young, Must Love Audio, and Lyric Audiobooks for the gifted audiobook. Opinions expressed are my own.

[Shannon · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was provided both an audio and print ARC of this book via the author, all opinions are by own.

This book like all of the other books in the series does read as a complete standalone, however it does feature characters that we have gotten to know over the course of the series. Callie and Lewis were children in previous installments when we met their parents, now they are all grown up and we learn how they went from best friends as kids to high school sweethearts to not speaking to one another.

Lewis and Callie both left Ardnoch after high school. Lewis moved to London for university and is beginning his career as an architect. He is beginning to feel the pull to move back home and be closer to his family, but he is still heartbroken over losing Callie. She's recently moved back home to work at her mother's bakery after a stint in Paris studying pastry arts. Callie was adamant she never wanted to leave Scotland and their small town, so naturally Lewis is confused by her actions and their breakup. When they run into each other in London, all of those unresolved feelings come rushing back and they both let emotion and passion lead them.

As with the other books set in Ardnoch this has a bit of a suspense element to it. It doesn't overtake the main romance plot between Lewis and Callie as they navigate getting to know one another again, but strange things keep happening to them that threaten to upend their happiness. I really enjoyed getting to know Lewis and Callie as adults. I thought it was a nice creative touch that this was told in both the present and the past. We get to know them both as teenagers when their romantic relationship was developing and as it fell apart and we get to know them as adults as they start dating again and re-establishing their relationship and navigate the things that tore them apart in the first place. Callie has to deal with the emotional trauma from her past as well as all of the local gossips wanting to stir up drama for her and her family. Fortunately she has a strong support system, and she and Lewis slowly ease their way back to what they once had only better. This has a good amount of spice and was a great second chance romance!

[♡︎ Kesa Subban ♡︎ · Rating 5 out of 5]

ꍏꋪꏳ ꋪꏂ꒦ꀤꏂꅐ
𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨 - 𝖫𝖾𝗐𝗂𝗌
𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐞 - 𝖢𝖺𝗅𝗅𝗂𝖾
5 𝘔𝘺 𝘏𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘵 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐬
𝐎𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐎𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐨𝐧

𝘕𝘰𝘳𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘯 𝘛𝘸𝘪𝘭𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘉𝘺 𝘚𝘢𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘵𝘩𝘢 𝘠𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘨

♾️⭐

Callie and Lewis, we read about them in the previous books in this series, read about their friendship and love. And knowing that this was a second chance, I couldn't wait to know what could have happened.

This is the fifth book in the highland series and second gen, and Samantha didn't disappoint.

Being a professional baker and architect are Callie and Lewis's respective dreams, they just never realised they will accomplish them apart.

The past chapters gave you an insight into their young love, friendship and pain..it honestly had me in tears.

𝗢𝗻𝗲 𝗰𝗼𝗻𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗿𝗵𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗱. 𝗧𝗵𝗮𝘁'𝘀 𝘄𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗯𝗿𝗼𝗸𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗺.

The present had you feeling the pain, anger, love and longing they still had for each other.

Lewis and Callie tried..."tried" to move on, and be happy, it just wasn't possible when the only time they felt at peace and whole was when they had each other, and when they met after seven freaking long years...the emotions you guys!!!

And their reunion 😜 in London. Let me just say the emotions and undeniable chemistry between them it just burst into flames here...and the spicy scenes 🥵🌶️

After Lewis and Callie's night in London, Lewis grasps onto that little hope and leaves the life he has in London and heads back home to fight for his woman.

And Callie is afraid to give Lewis her heart again and just wants to leave the past in the past...( while also being 100% jealous of the fact that he might move on).

But its Lewis we are talking about! And thats just not gonna happen!

....I absolutely loved how much Lewis loved Callie, and even though he did have a little anger with everything that happened between them, he never...not freaking once doubted his love for her.

It had been years, they were young when everything happened and he was not going to let that stop him from being with Callie.

The tattoos 😍

Loved how the little suspense was weaved into this one, and figured out who it revolved around pretty quickly 🙈

𝐒𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬

Walker 🔥 this man you guys!!!

💯% loved catching up with the previous couples.

Eilidh & Fyfe ????? Shew, I need their book!

𝐅𝐚𝐯𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐞 𝐐𝐮𝐨𝐭𝐞

“𝑨𝒍𝒘𝒂𝒚𝒔 𝒐𝒏𝒍𝒚 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝒚𝒐𝒖.” -𝓛𝒆𝒘𝒊𝒔 & 𝓒𝒂𝒍𝒍𝒊𝒆

𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬
𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨 ✏️📐♥️✏️📐
𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐞 🥐🍰💋🥐🍰
𝐂𝐡𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐲 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
𝐒𝐩𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐋𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥 🥵🌶️🥵
𝐏𝐥𝐨𝐭 📚📚📚📚📚
𝐄𝐦𝐨𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐋𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥 💧💧💧

[Jess - Reader of Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

Northern Twilight by Samantha Young 💙
The Highlands, Book 5
Interconnected Standalone

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
♾️♾️♾️♾️♾️
Adult • Romance
ARC Review
353 pages
🗓️ August 8

💙 second chance
🧁 childhood friends
💙 second generation
🧁 first love, forever love
💙 dash of suspense

📌“I’ve missed you so much, mo chridhe. But I won’t need to miss you anymore.”

📌“You have so much to lose when you have everything.”

📌 “Always only ever you.”

Samantha Young might have wrote a dedication saying, “For my cousin Clare. Love you lots.” But what I read was, “For Jess, who manifested this book.”

[also, my autocorrect changed that to “forget Jess” and I’m considering never speaking to my phone ever again 😒]

When they were kids I thought “wouldn’t that be cute. I hope she does a next generation.” Then they got “older kids” and I said, “oh she must do a second gen with these two.” Next time we saw Callie and Lewis they were teenagers and in love. And I was going crazy, rainbows coming out of my ears while my eyes threw heart-shaped confetti. Until it hit me: it’s going to be second chance, isn’t it?! And poof. I was gone.

Because second chance is my romance love language. Because second chance pulls at my heartstrings. Because second chance is what keeps me up until 1am knowing d*mn well I need to be up at 5am. Because there’s something special about messing up, about life messing up, about losing and feeling it in every bone and then find a way to fix it. There’s something validating and hopeful about being missed and missing. About being tethered to another through distance and time.

And in case you were wondering, that was Northern Twilight to me. They tell you to find North when you’re lost. And I think I did. 🖤

Lewis and Callie were just like I dreamed they would be.

[Renee (aredheadwithbedhead) · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Don’t flirt with me.” “I’m not. I’m merely observing and speaking a truth. You grew up sexy, Callie Ironside.”

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 🌶️🌶️🌶️

𝗧𝗛𝗜𝗦 𝗶𝘀 𝗵𝗼𝘄 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝘄𝗿𝗶𝘁𝗲 𝗮 𝘀𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗱 𝗰𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗿𝗼𝗺𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲!! 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻 Samantha Young has smashed out of the park again with this incredibly touching second chance story between childhood sweethearts Callie & Lewis. Having followed the Highlands and The Adair Family series, it was such a treat to revisit all the Ardnoch characters and family members through the eyes of Callie and Lewis all grown up, and experience their second chance at love and the start of their family together.

The dual timeline of the book was perfectly done, offering teasing glimpses into their past until the moment of their childhood heartbreak. And let me tell you, I teared up it was so powerful when it happened 🥺 Then to jump back into the present and be treated to the 𝗕𝗘𝗦𝗧 𝗥𝗘𝗨𝗡𝗜𝗢𝗡 𝗦𝗣𝗜𝗖𝗘 I’ve ever read was utter perfection!! 🥵🥵🥵 Flirty, dominant, possessive, tattooed, long haired Lewis Adair.. my drool was seriously showing.

Callie Ironside also proved to be the badass heroine we all need in our lives! Their accidental pregnancy was done exceptionally well and with low angst, just making me melt even more for these two. What an incredible addition to the series!

[Lisa Mandina · Rating 5 out of 5]

I adored the little friendship/love story that started with Lewis and Callie as kids in their parents’ books, so I was extremely excited to read this one! We got some of the sweet stories from their past when they were teenagers, and then we found out that they had of course broken up and things weren’t good between them now. When the two of them meet up for the first time since they broke up, things get pretty tense, and then later intense, as they let their drinking help them get physical again.

Callie of course runs away before Lewis wakes up, and goes back home. Things seem perfect at home, her mom is like her best friend and she loves working at the bakery with her. Soon though, the small town atmosphere makes itself known with the gossip and how people are saying things behind her back. I kind of felt for her a bit, even made me think of myself as a bit of a mooch with how my parents have always been there for me as well.

Lewis is all grown up and not at all what I would have expected from what we knew of him in the books when he was a kid. He’s a tattooed motorcycle riding architect. Okay, so the architect bit wasn’t a surprise, lol. But he wants Callie back, and decides to give up on his London job and take his father’s offer to come work at the firm back in Ardnoch so he can be close to her and figure out a way to get her back.

As the blurb says, their one night together leads to a surprise pregnancy. Although the fact that he knew the condoms in his wallet were old and thought about that made me figure that was coming, because I hadn’t read the whole blurb before reading this. I just always know I’ll read this author’s books, so I don’t bother with the blurb other than maybe to see who the characters are and if I know them from other books. I did like how the two used the pregnancy to get to know each other and did find their way back to each other.

Like the other books in the series there was some danger and suspense from bad people. I kind of clued in to what was being looked for when Callie’s house got broken into based on another bit in the story that seemed like we got some random info. Maybe I just read too much and notice all that now. I do like however, that this type of story means we don’t usually get the third act breakup that I don’t care for, and so that made this book lovely as well.

I’m pretty sure all the characters from both this series as well as the one it branched off of were mentioned or showed up at some point in the story. While I’ve enjoyed all the books, they’re not ones I reread like with the author’s On Dublin Street series, so a few names were kind of run together for me. But I still liked getting to see them. A few small details I loved were the “In My Baking Era” t-shirt she had, since I have a similar one that says “In My Librarian Era.” And, one of Callie’s favorite snacks was Irn-Bru, the soda I discovered and fell in love with when I visited Scotland last summer. Also now that I’ve been there, some of the details about when they visited Edinburgh stuck out to me since I’ve been there and recognized what they talked about.

Anyway, this will now probably be my favorite in the series, and I’m excited for the next one, since I’m guessing it will be about Lewis’s little sister Eilidh.

My review was first posted on Lisa Loves Literature.

[Cheech · Rating 2 out of 5]

This just wasn’t it for me. I typically love her books, but this was bad. Callie was annoying and whiney to me and Lewis was fine but the chemistry was blah and him getting a TATTOO of Callie's face?? Imagine breaking up with someone and then finding out years later your FACE is on their body super visible… heebie jeebies. The best friend sucked and Callie makes up with her immediately, but she cut out Lewis for 7 years due to overhearing one conversation with a friend out of context where he wasn't 100 percent about his future? Don’t even get me started on the street fight with the villager neighbors all just hanging out in their homes watching a preggo brawl with two men? Maybe I’m crabby, maybe this was ridiculous. Only saving grace was finishing it up on audio and the Scottish accents 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

*ARC Given to Blog for Honest Review*

5 “Callie’s Wee Cakery” “mo chridhe” “Always only ever you” Review

I. Absolutely. 1000000000%. Cannot. I cannot put into proper words how much I was looking forward to this book. This book…has been one of my most unexpected anticipated reads ever. I wanted it but I didn’t dare hope for it - so the second Samantha let it slip that it was actually happening…well I’m pretty sure my heart will never recover from that moment. I’ve loved Lewis from the moment we met him way at the beginning of The Adair Family Series (specifically There With You because that’s where we meet his dad and really learn a lot about his backstory) but it flared up anew with the spin off, The Highland Series - again mainly with Beyond the Thistles because that’s Callie’s moms book but the other books leading up to Northern Twilight only add to the excitement because we get to see tiny glimpses of Callie and Lewis - which are LITERALLY everythingggggg. So…million dollar question, do you have to read the other books in the Adair Family Series ( Here With Me , There With You , Always You , Be With Me , and Only You ) and the Highlands Series ( Beyond the Thistles , Among the Heather , Through the Glen and Skies Over Caledonia ) order to read Northern Twilight - short answer, I highly recommend reading There With You and Beyond the Thistles just so you understand both Lewis and Callie’s history, which is exceedingly helpful to understanding their characters - it’s not a deal breaker if you don’t because (as usual) Samantha does a fantastic job of explaining everything so there is no confusion - but that would be my recommendation. Now…because I’m a series whore and I LOVE both of these series something fierce, of course I highly recommend reading both the Adair Family and Highland Series ASAP because they are phenomenal and one of my fav series ever - the writing is wonderful, the characters are astounding and it’s the best blend of romance and suspense that I’ve ever read.

Callie Ironside…my fierce and fiery little bad ass. I feel like I’ve come full circle with Callie…since we met her back in Only You and then getting to know her and her moms full story in Beyond the Thistles to now getting her story, it just feels like a complete journey with her and it brings so much joy and warmth to me heart. It’s not an experience you get to have very often with a character and only endears me even more to her. Callie is a lot of things…strong in soooo many ways…smart, creative, giving and kind. After all she had been through, she didn’t let the negative take over her life and her mindset. If anything I think it made her more thankful for the life she has - the life she and her mom fought so hard to have. I have adored every version of Callie that I’ve had the pleasure of knowing and it’s clear to see why a certain Adair can’t stop loving her either.

‘“Not everything and everyone is your responsibility.”
“I know that.” He flashed me a boyish grin that made my belly flutter. “Just the people I love.” His smile died, and he clasped my face in his hand, his thumb brushing my cheek. “I’d do anything for you.”
It was official. I was ruined. Lewis Adair made all other boys my age pale in comparison.’

Lewis Adair…I think if you wanted the visual definition of the word Himbo, it would probably be Lewis. He has the tatt’s, he's tall, dark and menacing with the man bun and beard, rides motorcycle’s - you get the picture. But deep down, to his core - the dude is allllll softy and with a heart of gold to boot. Lewis has always been older than his age…he’s carried the weight of the world on his shoulders, a typical Adair man…broody on the outside, sensitive on the inside. But while he has changed physically (loooooved the man bun and beard - yum!), he is still the big, sweet teddy bear on the inside. And as much as he might have wished he changed…his heart has still only ever belonged to one woman.

“Everything is going to change.”
“Not everything,” he promised. “Not the way I love you.”
I let out a shuddering breath. “I have always loved you too. Always only ever you.”

Callie and Lewis are…true love at its finest. I’ve been obsessed with them before I even knew they were going to have a book so it took very little to have me googly eyed and just in pure bliss over loving these too. I appreciated the way Samantha told their story - giving us flashbacks of their past while also continuing their story in the present. I was really trying to piece together what could have broken them up…it wasn’t what I expected but it made sense given who Callie and Lewis were. The whole situation was frustrating because I did agree with both of them but it also made sense given their ages and while it hurt, I can’t say it wasn’t what was best for both of them…to try and live apart to know for certain that their love really could last. They might have been separated for 7 years but it didn’t feel like any time had passed at all - they were the same Callie and Lew, just a little older and hopefully wiser. Lewis was just as protective over Callie as he was when he was a boy and Callie still acted like he hung the moon (which…for her, he would have). It was fun watching them relearn each other and see the similarities and differences…it was almost like falling in love again.

“Totally inappropriate. You’re here with your pregnant girlfriend.”
I didn’t hear anything else but “pregnant girlfriend.” I grinned.
Callie glowered. “Oh, you like that?”
“The pregnant girlfriend part, aye. Didn’t know we were calling each other boyfriend and girlfriend.”
Her eyes widened as she realized what she’d let slip. “Well, I mean, we’re d-dating⁠—”
I cut her off with a quick kiss. “I’m your boyfriend.”
“Aye?”
“Aye.”
A smile tugged at her lips, giving her away even as she shrugged casually. “Cool.”
I chuckled. “Cool.”

Samantha Young gets me every time. Every single time - and I can’t even say I’m surprised about it any more but I don’t love it any less. This family and series has grown roots into my heart and brain and I really don’t want to think about having to move onto something else after Elidh’s book, which is the last planned one (for now *fingers crossed*). Everything about what Samantha has created with the Adairs and Ardnoch is to a T what I love about series books period. The fact that I still get to see Lachlan and Robyn from Here with Me, the book that started it all, and their children just makes my feels turn to mush and I get heart eyes because I love seeing how far all of these characters have come…seeing their journeys even through the perspective of someone else is all I could ever want and I love that Samantha is giving us that glimpse. I will always look forward to whatever Samantha’s lovely brain decides to cook up next but Ardnoch will forever be something I treasure.

‘“I love you, Lewis. I love you so much.”
“I love you too. Always have. Always will.”
“Always only ever you,” she repeated words she’d said to me weeks ago.’

I always look forward to Samantha’s endings because they’re just so good. With Northern Twilight I didn’t even see it coming - it completely snuck up on me and that was both the good and bad news. It wasn’t rushed…everything was wonderful…I loved it, just hated that it was over. I know Elidh’s book, Forever the Highlands is the next and final book for The Highlands Series and. I. Am. Dying. Sooooooo many Easter eggs dropped on El’s and I cannot wait to get into that girls head and figure out what is going on with her. Plus, after getting the synopsis and meeting Fyfe in Northern Twilight, goodness gracious I’m going to need to start preparing for her book now! #TakeMeToArdnoch

[Ramona Popescu · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really don't have to repeat myself, but I think it's imperative for you to know that nobody writes a story about family as Samantha does. She managed to transpire so many feelings through her stories, that you feel part of a group, you belong to somebody who embraces your emotions and accepts you for who you are. This is the Samantha effect and you cannot convince me otherwise.

This is the 5th book from the "The Highlands" series, a romantic series based in Scotland, where you get to live all these beautiful stories which will make your heart full again. As I've told you before, this is a spin-off from the original series "The Adair Family". I am always amazed about the speed of writing that Samantha has because she is releasing up to 3 books per year and nails them every time.

This is the story of Lewis Adair and Callie Ironside, 2 best friends from childhood, who fell in love from a tender age and never stopped doing so. This is not a surprise for us, because their story was in development a long time ago, but Samantha prepared us for what is about to happen. Well, she prepared us for the love story, but for everything.

Callie is back from her 3-year culinary school in Paris and she wants to be involved professionally in her mother's bakery. She is not with Lewis anymore because they had a fight at 18 year old and Lewis left for London. Since then, the vibe has been very strange between them, but the love was still showing. The wounds are deep, they blame each other for decisions taken as kids and therefore, a lot of pent-up frustrations are in the middle of their romance. Reunited at a party, Lewis and Callie get closer and everything in combination with alcohol is much more intense, therefore things happen. But some actions have consequences and you will find them in the story because I don't want to spoil them.

Why 4 stars? Because I hate unhappy people who stay that way due to communication issues. I think this is what happened to Lewis and Callie and their communication skills were their enemy. They lost so many years because they didn't have the courage to settle things and besides that, were not mature enough to rekindle a connection that was visibly there. As the plot progressed, I found in them the maturity I needed, even if it came along a little forced by the circumstances.

I liked Lewis more than I liked Callie, because he seemed more mature and more aware of the reality between them, more eager to fight, being in the same time a gentleman but also a lover. This combination was very "Adair-like" and I think Samantha has a type for these men because she keeps on introducing them into the books, ruining us readers of other heroes to come.

The story introduced a very interesting secondary character by the name of Fyfe, Lewis's best friend, and Samantha is tormenting us, because he will get his own book, out December 5, 2024. Is it Winter yet?

For more reviews, please check out www.ramonismeramo.com

[Madison Rusnell · Rating 5 out of 5]

5⭐️
3🌶️

I don't like second chance or flash backs but my queen KNOCKED IT OUT OF THE PARK!!! Not that I'm surprised even a little bit! This book was absolutely fantastic. I really appreciated Callie's development because at first I was like hmmm she was kinda the problem for a hot minute. Not a major problem! But like, a wee one. I also wish Lewis got his head out of his ass way sooner but like then there wouldn't really be a book so... lol. Also Carrianne?? All I'm saying is I was like 👀👀 almost the whole book, she surprised me and not in the way you would think. Overall a fantastic read that I highly recommend!! This is a standalone in the series technically, as all her books are, but this is second generation and I highly recommend you at least read There With Me for Lewis's parent's story (that's my favourite novel by Samantha) and Beyond The Thistles for Callie's parent's story. But I also just recommend you read all of the Adair family series and all of the Highlands because they're so damn good you guys!

Northern Twilight comes out on August 8th and y'all better RUN to go get your copy!