Highlands Homecoming

Highlands Christmas Romance #3

by Amy Quick Parrish

What if hitting rock bottom sparks your greatest adventure?

In the heartwarming third installment of the Highlands Christmas Romance series, Melissa Mackenzie is on the verge of fulfilling her dream of owning a charming Scottish home. Just as she celebrates signing the final paperwork, her soon-to-be ex-husband, Dave, disrupts her plans by demanding his half of the property in their divorce. To complicate matters further, Melissa's blossoming romance with Colin, who happens to be Dave's attorney, adds a twist to her already tangled life.

As the January chill falls over the Highlands, Melissa finds solace in helping her friend Lindsay prepare for the grand opening of a new inn in Inverness, just in time for a festive Burns Supper. Meanwhile, Colin navigates his own family drama as his father falls for Margaret, a vivacious real estate agent.

With love, loyalty, and the spirit of the Highlands at stake, Melissa and Colin must find a way to balance their personal and professional lives, proving that sometimes, the best gifts come wrapped in the most unexpected packages. Cozy up with Highlands Homecoming for a heartwarming tale filled with romance, friendship, and the magic of Scotland.

Genres: Romance, Christmas, Holiday, Scotland

130 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 3, 2024

About the author

Amy Quick Parrish is the author of sweet Christmas romances Highlands Christmas and Highlands New Year as well as young adult novels Into Dust, Into the Storm, and The Frequency. Born and raised in Michigan, she now lives in the Boston area with a wonderful husband and son and a lovely gray cat. When she's not busy crafting compelling screenplays or novels, you can find her watching Michigan football or on a quest to find the perfect taco. To stay updated on Amy Quick Parrish's latest works and adventures, you can follow her on Instagram, Facebook or join her mailing list at www.amyquickparrish.com

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Reviews

[BONNIE SMITH · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've joked lately that I'm in my Novella Era. Sometimes you just need to plop down with a little book you can knock off quickly, and last night it was the HIGHLANDS HOMECOMING for me.

This is the "rock bottom" tale of Melissa Mackenzie. Soon to be divorced, she has dreamed of owning her own place in Scotland- and it's coming true!! What could go wrong?? Well her soon to be ex has decide he wants half the new Scottish home in the divorce.

Devasted, Melissa bides her time helping friends open their Inn in Iverness and having heated, sexy banter with Colin- her new flame. That should be a plus right?? Oh wait Colin has connections to the ex that make things difficult- along with his own personal baggage. This is a story full of friendship and holiday moments.

Something about this gave me Gilmore Girls vibes (could be the opening of an Inn playing a large role in story) but I loved every single page. It's only 130ish pages and moved so quick and gave me ALL the feels.
If you're in a slump, cant commit to a full length holiday read or just love all things Scottish- give this one a try. It is the 3rd in a series, although a small blurb in the beginning gets you right where you need to be, no worries!

Thank you to Goodreads Giveaways and author Amy Quick Parish for a chance to read this wee sweet tale.

[Kylie ve · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you haven’t read the first two books you won’t have to worry because the author kindly put a short summary of them in this book! The characters in this book were adorable and I loved them! The plot was fun and easy to read! Very cute and would definitely recommend!

[linda hole · Rating 3 out of 5]

It was a Quick and sweet read, with new beginnings and a lovestory a good book for the christmasseason

[Shaylah · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Highlands Homecoming" was a fun, enjoyable, and super quick holiday story by Amy Quick Parrish.

This was book three in her Highlands Christmas and Highlands New Year book series. If you still need to remember a bit about books one and two or have yet to read them, Parrish provides a link to the ebooks, or you can read a quick summary of each book for free to get you up to speed with the characters.

The author did a fantastic job covering much ground within this novella without sacrificing the details, emotions, and plot. The budding romance between Melissa and Colin is very romantic and sweet (no spice), and I absolutely loved the inclusion of Scottish history, food, and culture. Burns Night was especially interesting as they shared their favorite Robert Burns poems and enjoyed their Burns Supper of haggis at MacAlister Inn.

I look forward to additional upcoming books in her Highlands Christmas series!

Thank you, #NetGalley, #AmyQuickParrish, and #FlyingCactusPublishing, for the ARC in exchange for my honest review. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. #HighlandsHomecoming

[Mel | Hot Plots and One Shots · Rating 4 out of 5]

Overall: ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ /5
Cover: ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ /5
Characters: ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ /5
Plot: ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ /5
Writing: ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️/5

Thank you to Amy Quick Parrish and Flying cactus publishing for an ARC c-book of this work!

If you haven't read the first two books, do not fret my wee Lass! Amy Quick Parrish has you covered with a short summary of the first two novels in this series! Though, the characters all seem delightful, so I'll probably pick them up!

I found the plot to be engaging and fun! I love a good revenge plan, divorcee finding her womanly power and sticking it to her manipulative ex husband--suck it, Dave!except Dave. Suck it, Dave!)!! The friendships represented in the story were meaningful and so heartwarming. This book felt like a warm cup of coco after playing in the snow all day. I just adored it.

[Stacey · Rating 4 out of 5]

Before reading this story I hadn't read the first two books so I was happy the author gave a quick summary of each so I knew what the past stories entailed. This was a really sweet quick romance read that took place the majority of time in Scotland. It almost was too quick of a story and I would have loved to enjoy the main characters a bit more and the development of their pending love for each other but it was sweet nonetheless. Definitely recommend!

Thanks to NetGalley, Amy Quick Parrish and Flying Cactus publishing for allowing me to review this ARC!

[Carolyn White · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this series of Christmas books based in Scotland. Only made me want to visit Scotland even more. These books read very fast and were such cute stories. I wish there was another book in this series to continue the main character, Melissa’s story. For a quick, enjoyable holiday read, I recommend these stories.

[Kristy Chown · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you Amy Quick Parrish and Netgalley for the ARC!

I will say that I did not read the first two book in the series first, BUT I do not want that to detract anyone from reading the book, as it is a joy as a stand alone too!
I had been reading a lot of darker, heavier books leading into Halloween month, and this book was a much-needed departure into a lighter mood and feeling for me.
The book begins with our main character Melissa going through a lot of changes, both good and bad - finalizing a divorce, getting over the mental trauma of dealing with her ex, enheriting a home in Scotland (!!!), meeting the potential man of her dreams, moving from the US to Scotland...

A lot of this book reads like what you'd see on a Hallmark holiday movie, which I LOVE. You have funny, cheeky support characters, a loving and perky best friend, you have other character romance development happening...
Melissa is trying to move on and carve a new life for herself with this gift a home in the Highlands she inherited from a distant relative. Her skeavy ex Dave wants to try and steal the home from under her feet before their divorce is completely finalized. Dave sees Colin (his lawyer) with Melissa and aims to use this to get what he wants.
Amid the plot development are cozy scenes with friends and family, enjoying the winter season, descriptions of beautiful Scotland and its people, food, etc.
As someone who's been to Scotland 5 times and is a little obsessed, this would be my dream! This is a story that can sink into you like a cozy blanket in just a few sittings. Perfect for a cold, or rainy day, with quiet music on and a cup of coffee. I can't wait to read more of her work!

[Kelly Jarvis · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sometimes, you need a sweet romance to escape from holiday stress, and Amy Quick Parish’s Highlands Christmas Romance trilogy is the perfect thing to satisfy your craving. Sold separately or as standalone novellas, the books follow the adventures of a woman named Melissa who finds out her husband wants a divorce just as the holiday season begins. The first book, Highlands Christmas: Wishes Come True takes Melissa to Scotland where she falls in love with her cheating husband’s divorce lawyer. The second book, Highlands New Year sees Melissa’s best friend Caitlin hop across the pond to begin a romantic relationship of her own. In the third installment, Highlands Homecoming, the characters all return to Boston to face challenges and make decisions about their futures.

The Highlands Christmas series is filled with references to Scottish folklore and holiday customs. As readers witness Melissa’s movements through physical and emotional landscapes, they are treated to descriptions of places like Loch Ness and told about Scottish Christmas and Hogmanay traditions. If you enjoy Celtic legends, men in kilts, or Scottish cuisine, you will delight in these light-hearted novellas. Each one is a quick read, perfect to enjoy between holiday parties and activities. The narratives unfold much like you expect them to, and like a Hallmark Christmas movie, each book will leave you with a lingering sense of the joys that come from the love of the holiday season. After picking up the first installment on a whim, I was happy to read the sequels each year to help set a sweet, wintry tone for my Christmas and New Year’s celebrations.

Thank you to NetGalley for a free copy of the book in exchange for a fair review.

[Julie B · Rating 4 out of 5]

Highlands Homecoming is like a warm cup of tea on a chilly winter day—cozy, comforting, and brimming with charm. This third installment in the Highlands Christmas Romance series sweeps readers away to the picturesque Scottish Highlands for a delightful story of second chances, love, and finding your place in the world.

Melissa Mackenzie's dream of starting fresh in her cozy Scottish home hits a major roadblock when her ex-husband, Dave, swoops in with demands, but Melissa’s resilience and determination make her journey so satisfying to follow. Throw in her budding romance with Colin—Dave’s attorney, no less—and things get adorably complicated. The mix of romantic tension and lighthearted drama keeps the pages turning, all while painting a vivid picture of life in the Highlands.

Colin, meanwhile, is a dreamboat with his own set of challenges, balancing his career with his father’s sweet yet chaotic new relationship. The interplay between Melissa and Colin is filled with tender moments, laughter, and just enough drama to keep things interesting without ever feeling heavy.

The backdrop of the Highlands, complete with preparations for a festive Burns Supper, adds a sprinkle of magic to the story. From quaint inns to rolling landscapes, it’s easy to get lost in the cozy atmosphere. And with its themes of friendship, community, and unexpected gifts, this book feels like a love letter to starting over and finding joy in life’s twists and turns.

If you’re looking for a feel-good romance filled with humor, heart, and a touch of Scottish magic, Highlands Homecoming is the perfect read to cozy up with.

[Lily · Rating 3 out of 5]

In the third novel in this cozy Highlands Christmas Romance series, readers follow Melissa Mackenzie as she works to own a Scottish home until her almost-ex-husband Dave decides to demand his half of the property (which would include her new house) in the divorce. And besides that, Melissa is currently dating Colin, Dave’s divorce attorney, which adds a whole new level of drama. Occupying herself with her friend Lindsay’s inn opening and working on her relationship with Colin (who is dealing with his own family drama), Melissa must put in her share of work to balance her personal and professional lives with Colin’s to get her happy ending. The characters are the absolute stars of the novel, and the new conflicts and drama really tests Colin and Melissa’s relationship and their individual strengths of character in some fantastic ways. The cozy wintery setting and Burns Supper really sets the atmosphere for this novel, and readers will particularly enjoy the magical settings that Parrish has brought to life. An incredible continuation of this cozy romance series, readers will love this latest instalment for Melissa’s growth and changes since book one and for the continuation of the series’ charming, magical, romantic tone.

Thanks to NetGalley and Flying Cactus Publishing for the advance copy.

[Asheley T. · Rating 4 out of 5]

The third part in this novella trilogy takes place just after the Christmas and New Year of the previous two installments, and finds Melissa’s divorce finally official—or is it? Her ex-husband Dave (who is rotten to the core) stirs up trouble where her inherited Scottish estate is concerned. Melissa’s old and new friends rally to protect her interests. And the characters that I’ve grown to love have some big life changes. There’s a lot of Boston in this one, as well as Scotland. Some of the characters’ loose ends are tied up, but honestly I feel like there is enough open that the series really could keep going. I wish I knew a little more about each of the couples at the conclusion of this trilogy, especially Melissa and Colin. If the author chose to continue these stories, I would keep reading them.

They’re quick and easy, they’re festive, and they’re a lot of fun. There is no stress here. These are exactly the type of holiday stories I like to read by the light of my Christmas tree, with my blanket, warm socks, and my pups snuggled beside of me.

I chose to read these novellas back-to-back-to-back for my own personal #christmasinjuly challenge, because they help me feel a little cooler while the NC summer is so hot outside.

Many thanks to the author and Flying Cactus Publishing, who allowed me to read a digital copy of this book via NetGalley.

[Kim Anne · Rating 3 out of 5]

Highlands Homecoming in the third book in the Highland Christmas Romance series and it is such a cozy read! It was my first book of this series, but it was no problem, because the author provided a short summary of the other two books. After reading this one, I am excited to also read the other books.

The plot centers around Melissa, the new owner of a home in Scotland, who has to deal with her soon-to-be ex-husband Dave and at the same time trying to build a new life in Scotland with her boyfriend Colin. There is a lot at stake and all characters are trying to find their ways in these complicated matters.

Although it is a short story, what I liked was that the author spend a little bit of time on some Scottish history. That made you really feel like you were in the Scottish Highlands going on a journey with the characters.

I highly recommend to put this series on you Christmas TBR! It is a perfect little pallet cleanser for in between two books.

Many thanks to NetGalley, Flying Cactus Publishing and Amy Quick Parrish sharing this ARC in exchange for my honest review.

[Bookish · Rating 3 out of 5]

Highlands Homecoming is a cute short story set during the holiday season that bounces between Scotland and Boston.

I appreciated that the author had a brief summary at the beginning for those of us (myself included) who did not read the first novella. That said, I would actually recommend reading the first story prior to this one, as there were times I felt a bit in the dark about some details.

Perhaps it was because I didn't read the first novella to have all the background information, but the romance between Melissa and Colin seemed to move at an unrealistically fast pace. I know this is supposed to be a lighthearted romance, but it still felt a bit rushed IMO.

My favorite parts of the story involved the tidbits about Scottish culture and history, as well as the lovely description of the Highlands during the winter season. I didn't know anything about Burns Night prior to reading this, and it made the novella more nuanced and interesting to me.

Overall, I would recommend this read if you are looking for a quick & cozy holiday romance with a unique setting! Thank you to NetGalley and Flying Cactus Publishing for an ARC in exchange for my review.

[Jennifer Whalen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cute Christmas/winter story! Love the Boston >> Scotland setting and the way the author incorporated the Scottish tradition of a Burns dinner, it made me want to throw one myself! Or better yet, Travel to Scotland for one.

I appreciate that the author included a brief synopsis of the previous two books to catch up the reader in case you missed the previous books. This is the third book in the installment and while you can read this as a stand alone, the book features a couple that had been introduced in book 1 and their romance slowly progresses over the course of the first two books (along with side romance plot lines) so you might want to read those books as well.


Dave was the absolute worst, and he made it easy to root for Melissa & Colin. I would call this book more closed door than clean since there is a few instances of swearing and a clear implication of physical intimacy between the characters before marriage.

Thank you to Net Galley and the author for the advanced copy of this book

[Becca · Rating 4 out of 5]

There are truly no words for how much I adore this author!! I have read her first two books in this series, but the fact that she is so kind that she went as far as to put a summary of both in the beginning of this book? So appreciated and needed!! Like truly, Amy, if you ever read this - PLEASE continue to do this... I, like most from what I've seen, read and then tend to struggle with remembering what I just read, so having a summary is just the best.

The characters in this book/series are adorable, kind, funny, and just beautifully written. This is truly a fun and fast read with fantastic pacing (especially for a novella!) - it packed a punch but nothing ever felt like it was being cut short. The budding romance was so sweet, and I truly loved the moments of celebrating the Scottish life - so well done. Burns night is amazing and I truly want to witness that one day.

I look forward to reading more from Amy in the future!

Thank you to NetGalley, Amy Quick Parrish, and Flying Cactus Publishing for this arc in exchange for my honest review.

[Cole Chartier · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to Amy Quick Parrish, Flying Cactus Publishing and NetGalley for an eARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

This was the 3rd book in this series but the first I had read. The author did a wonderful job of giving a quick blurb at the beginning of the book to quickly catch readers up on what happened in the first two books. This made for a seamless dive into the third book without much confusion on what was happening.

I quite enjoyed the entire story, as a short story (just over 100 pages), it was well thought out and executed. Moving quickly enough to move the story along and not losing the important details along the way. The inclusion of Scottish culture was wonderful! It was so nice to learn a little something while reading a cozy romance without it feeling dry and "info dumpy".

I look forward to reading the first two novels in this series as well as any new work this author puts out in the future.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Highlands Homecoming by Amy Quick Parrish is the third novella in the Highlands Christmas Romance series. It features all of the same characters as the first two books, I love that because their stories continue and I get to know more about their lives. Even though this is part of a series, you don’t have to have read the first two books as the author gives a synopsis of what previously happened, although I would definitely recommend reading and enjoying them all. This one is a sweet story with a gorgeous setting of the Scottish Highlands that has me all the more excited to visit Scotland sometime soon. Thanks to Flying Cactus Publishing and NetGalley for eARC. All opinions shared are influenced by nothing other than my own reading experience.

[Juli · Rating 5 out of 5]

This collection is the ultimate winter warmer and a gift to readers who love cozy, heartfelt holiday romance! A massive thank you is extended to NetGalley for the advanced reading copy (eARC) of Highlands Christmas Books 1-3. The Lit Whisperer's analysis finds that this trilogy earns a full, resounding 5 stars for its sheer charm and festive cheer. Each of the three stories in the book is a perfect dose of holiday magic, delivering charming characters and satisfying romantic arcs against the beautiful, snowy backdrop of the Scottish Highlands. These are the definition of cozy Christmas stories: full of warmth, community spirit, and beautiful 'love, snow, home' vibes. This collection is a must-have for binge-reading during the holidays!
​Follow me for more reviews @TheLitWhisperer.

[☆Laura☆ · Rating 3 out of 5]

Es una historia corta y rápida de leer, con un final feliz asegurado.

Este es el tercer libro de Highlands Christmas Romance, y por fin se revela qué pasará con Melissa y Colin: ¿terminarán juntos o la distancia los separará?

Se confirma que lo mejor que pudo hacer ella fue pedir el divorcio a ese tipejo.



Spoilers ⚠️ ⚠️
No entendí la inclusión de la cena con la ex; no aportó nada, ni bueno ni malo, solo generó unos segundos de tensión para el lector y luego se ignoró por completo em tema. Lo mínimo que esperaba era que él mencionara a Melissa.


Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Abbie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Melissa is finalizing her divorce when her soon to be ex-husband Dave causes chaos. He’s suddenly decided he wants half of Melissa’s house in Scotland. To add to the drama, Melissa has recently started a romance with her ex-husband’s attorney, Colin.

There were a lot of things happening in this story. There was Melissa and Dave’s divorce, Melissa and Colin’s romance, Lindsay’s opening of the new inn, Colin’s father’s romance and injury…it was just a lot for a novella. Overall the romance was cute and I did enjoy the Scottish history that was included.

Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC.

[Tayler · Rating 3 out of 5]

★★★☆☆

Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Highlands Homecoming didn't quite hit the mark for me. While it wasn't a bad book by any means, it didn't leave a lasting impression either. The story was solid, but it didn't quite captivate me or stand out from other books in the genre. The characters and the setting were enjoyable enough, but there wasn't anything particularly unique or memorable about them.

I think this book will appeal to fans of historical romance or Highland-themed stories, but for me, it didn't make the list of top favorites. It was a decent read, but not one I would rush to recommend.

3 stars—It was okay, just not for me.

[Beatrice Tibaldini · Rating 4 out of 5]

Highland Homecoming is the perfect book for anyone who, after Halloween, already feels the Christmas spirit settling over their town. I started this book knowing it would be a gentle read, not too long but captivating with its sweet atmosphere and calm style. Although it’s the third book in a series, there’s no issue with understanding, as it briefly recaps what happened previously.

In my opinion, it delivers what it promises: a warm companion for a few hours, where emotions take the lead, letting you escape into a world of fantasy. Recommended as a Christmas gift for incurable romantics.

[Sally · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a cute story. Dave and Melissa are going through a divorce, and Melissa starts dating Dave's lawyer. Melissa inherits a house in Scotland and moves there, while Dave tries to claim the house in the divorce. While in Scotland, they celebrate Burns Supper a holiday dedicated to the late poet, Robert Burns. I didn't know anything about this Scottish tradition, and I really liked learning about it. Interesting and quick read.

Thank you to NetGalley and Flying Cactus Publishing for allowing me to read and review this ARC.

[Haddy • haddyreadshere · Rating 4 out of 5]

This (book 3) is my favourite of the trilogy.!

It was exciting, tense, and a beautiful way to wrap up the story. I love that some minor characters had a chance to shine, and they didn’t take away from the main plot. There were a few moments I didn’t expect, which made the book even more engaging. I’m also really glad it ended the way it did.

All in all, this trilogy is a feel-good series perfect for anyone looking to relax and read something sweet. I think the author did a great job, and I’d definitely recommend it.

[Holly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Melissa has shipped all of her belongings, and is ready to head back to her new home in Loch Ness. Hoping for the fresh start she desperately needs, the last thing she expected was her ex-husband Dave trying to forge the divorce papers to get his hands on Greenhill House. This was my favourite book of the series. With more Scottish traditions, some unexpected twists and a surprise romance, it was the perfect end to the Highlands Trilogy. This series is cozy, romantic and light-hearted. It is definitely worth reading.

[Alyssa Rizor · Rating 4 out of 5]

Let me just say that it was the perfect balance of sweet & funny. It is book three in the Highland Christmas Romance series, the author gives you an amazing recap of the first two books before you dive in. This book is a novella but it didn’t feel like it because of how much happened in this book. Would definitely recommend to anyone who is looking for a fast paced easy read.
Thank you Netgallery for the opportunity to read this ARC

[Sara · Rating 2 out of 5]

The third installment in Melissa's adventures of divorce and new beginnings in a new country with a new found family. Cute, but the writing is not the best; very basic and telling you everything that was already obvious. I like these kind of holiday romances because they are cute and cheeses and usually predictable, but this was cheesy and predictable in a bland and sometimes annoying way. Still finished the series for the whimsical fun holiday romance of it all.

[Rachel Stansel · Rating 3 out of 5]

A short novel tying up some loose ends from the previous stories. Definitely only a good read if you read those. The premise was tenuous at best, which irked me, but I did enjoy seeing how these stories end.

Full disclosure - I received a copy of the book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love that these novellas feel like the old times when you'd get a bit of a story every month of so. This chapter of the story however was a bit stressful! I did not need more of the ex-husband. (But I did trust the author to give me a happy/satisfying end, and it was delivered.)


(I received an early copy for review)