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Scottish Romances #4
A Christmas Wish on Arran
A Christmas to remember.
When Beth Ferguson’s dream of a career in journalism in London ends in tatters, she’s offered a new start as the local reporter on the Isle of Arran.
The only problem? Returning to the place she first met Callum. Her first love. And the man who broke her heart.
It’s been 25 years since ‘that day’. Surely he’s no longer there.
But Callum is still in Arran. Still gorgeous. Still making Beth’s heart flutter.
Despite the time apart, the more they try to ignore their chemistry, the more it reignites the flame between them.
As the close-knit island prepares for Christmas, Beth reconnects with Arran’s magic. But it’s Callum who pulls at her heartstrings. And when tragedy strikes, it’s Callum who shows Beth that time and distance can’t change what the heart really wants.
Can the magic of Christmas give Beth and Callum the second chance they need?
When Beth Ferguson’s dream of a career in journalism in London ends in tatters, she’s offered a new start as the local reporter on the Isle of Arran.
The only problem? Returning to the place she first met Callum. Her first love. And the man who broke her heart.
It’s been 25 years since ‘that day’. Surely he’s no longer there.
But Callum is still in Arran. Still gorgeous. Still making Beth’s heart flutter.
Despite the time apart, the more they try to ignore their chemistry, the more it reignites the flame between them.
As the close-knit island prepares for Christmas, Beth reconnects with Arran’s magic. But it’s Callum who pulls at her heartstrings. And when tragedy strikes, it’s Callum who shows Beth that time and distance can’t change what the heart really wants.
Can the magic of Christmas give Beth and Callum the second chance they need?
271 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 15, 2024
219 people are currently reading
167 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews
September 28, 2024
I received a free copy of, A Christmas Wish on Arran, by Ellie Henderson, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Beth left her home in Arran, 25 years ago to start a new, but know she is back, after losing her job in London. Beth's first love still lives in Arran, is she over the man who broke her heart? This was a sweet read, I enjoyed the characters and setting.
October 28, 2024
If you're looking for cozy and sweet, look no further. I don't mind cozy and sweet, but I did struggle a bit with this one, simply because it was a bit far fetched. The first half of the book they hadn't even interacted, and when they did and you learned their story, it just felt like...really? I know his dad passed, and that is traumatic, but who doesn't call their girlfriend or woman they love or whatever she was to him? It just didn't help me believe they really had this deep connection.
Overall it wasn't bad, but it wasn't great. Cozy, characters are all pretty easy to like, and the love story is very pure and sweet.
Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC!
Overall it wasn't bad, but it wasn't great. Cozy, characters are all pretty easy to like, and the love story is very pure and sweet.
Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 7, 2024
Thank you to Joffe Books and Ellie Henderson for granting me a Netgalley digital arc of A Christmas Wish on Arran. As it’s a festive story, it seems like the right time of year for a read and review.
A Christmas Wish on Arran is a cozy romance full of festive fun and heartwarming romance that’s perfect for ushering in the season with feel-good vibes and the season’s magic. The storytelling is layered, weaving journeys of self-discovery, healing, and romance to tell Beth and Callum’s story, and the plot is full of surprises. The characters are rich, vibrant souls with big hearts full of kindness and generosity, and they form a lovely, close-knit community on the Isle of Arran that makes me want to go live there. I loved that this romance featured dual POV and focused on the main characters who were in their 40s.
Ellie Henderson is a beautiful wordsmith who can paint a vivid, rich, and attractive picture of Scotland with her words. She captures the ambiance and atmosphere of Arran’s enchanting ancient landscape: warm, small community vibe and Scotland’s tendency for wild weather perfectly.
The romance is a very slow burn as Calum and Beth tiptoe around each other within their small island community – only with some sneaky old lady matchmaking and old friends to nudge them in the right direction do they take the plunge to reconnect. Beth and Callum’s chemistry reignites slowly as they come back into each other’s lives and find their feelings during times of hardship. They support one another in difficult moments, which beautifully mirrors their character journeys and development.
A perfect snowy festive read with oodles of charm and a cute, heart-warming second chance romance that will bring a smile to even the most hardened bah humbug out there. I’d recommend curling up with your favourite festive beverage, snuggly blanket, and roaring fire (or playing one on a device) to escape the winter gloom and the December hustle and bustle.
A Christmas Wish on Arran is a cozy romance full of festive fun and heartwarming romance that’s perfect for ushering in the season with feel-good vibes and the season’s magic. The storytelling is layered, weaving journeys of self-discovery, healing, and romance to tell Beth and Callum’s story, and the plot is full of surprises. The characters are rich, vibrant souls with big hearts full of kindness and generosity, and they form a lovely, close-knit community on the Isle of Arran that makes me want to go live there. I loved that this romance featured dual POV and focused on the main characters who were in their 40s.
Ellie Henderson is a beautiful wordsmith who can paint a vivid, rich, and attractive picture of Scotland with her words. She captures the ambiance and atmosphere of Arran’s enchanting ancient landscape: warm, small community vibe and Scotland’s tendency for wild weather perfectly.
The romance is a very slow burn as Calum and Beth tiptoe around each other within their small island community – only with some sneaky old lady matchmaking and old friends to nudge them in the right direction do they take the plunge to reconnect. Beth and Callum’s chemistry reignites slowly as they come back into each other’s lives and find their feelings during times of hardship. They support one another in difficult moments, which beautifully mirrors their character journeys and development.
A perfect snowy festive read with oodles of charm and a cute, heart-warming second chance romance that will bring a smile to even the most hardened bah humbug out there. I’d recommend curling up with your favourite festive beverage, snuggly blanket, and roaring fire (or playing one on a device) to escape the winter gloom and the December hustle and bustle.
November 25, 2024
So, I read this without realising it was #4 in the series, which explains why a lot of the background characters weren't super fleshed out (they were MCs from previous books) so I can't fault the book for that, but even so I was not impressed.
This book suffers from one issue above all others. It tells rather than shows, at every step of the way an inordinate amount of time is spent around minutiae that tugs you out of the story. For example, at one point the FMC is in the pub and having a glass of wine and midway through some dialogue it pauses to say she took another sip of the Malbec. And... I was thinking "ooh is that important?" It was not and was never mentioned again. And the book is full of moments like this that are superfluous and you think might set something up, or be narratively relevant, and then.. they aren't.
This weakness of telling over showing is at its worst when it comes to the premise of the book. The following are not spoilers. This is a romance, so we know there will be a HEA. The prologue sets up that our FMC moved to London when she was 21 and was deeply in-love with the MMC (who loved her back) who never showed at the agreed meeting point and so she had to go without him. The book is set 25 years later when she has moved back to the island for a life direction change and a job and they meet again. Cute! But, to go from there to HEA we *know* they're going to have to reconcile. There must be some reason he ditched her, maybe a misunderstanding we aren't privy to or outside context information, because you can't have a cozy romance where one of the leads is actually a horrible person. This is all acceptable foreknowledge; I was aware of all this going in and still wanted to read it. But also, I expect more than just a conversation clearing things up and then a resolution.
When I read a book I want to see some conflicts and then see them resolved somehow. Are they even sure they still love each other after all this time? Are there things getting in the way? MMC has a daughter now, what if daughter doesn't like FMC. What if daughter *does* like her and gets in the way? Maybe there's a subplot around the daughter and growing up as a teenager in a single parent household? These are all interesting questions I would have loved to read about... and they never happen. The book sets up one key conflict, the premise, and has no others. As soon as it's resolved the whole thing just kind of fizzles out, and because it is the only real conflict in the book, the main characters don't actually reunite until after the halfway point! The story just has nowhere to go once they do meet because there's only the one conflict and both our MCs have no obstacles preventing a relationship other than not having met.
Arran itself sounds lovely, and the setting was generally very fleshed out and nicely done, but otherwise, I felt like the story just fell flat because it just had no meat on its bones.
This book suffers from one issue above all others. It tells rather than shows, at every step of the way an inordinate amount of time is spent around minutiae that tugs you out of the story. For example, at one point the FMC is in the pub and having a glass of wine and midway through some dialogue it pauses to say she took another sip of the Malbec. And... I was thinking "ooh is that important?" It was not and was never mentioned again. And the book is full of moments like this that are superfluous and you think might set something up, or be narratively relevant, and then.. they aren't.
This weakness of telling over showing is at its worst when it comes to the premise of the book. The following are not spoilers. This is a romance, so we know there will be a HEA. The prologue sets up that our FMC moved to London when she was 21 and was deeply in-love with the MMC (who loved her back) who never showed at the agreed meeting point and so she had to go without him. The book is set 25 years later when she has moved back to the island for a life direction change and a job and they meet again. Cute! But, to go from there to HEA we *know* they're going to have to reconcile. There must be some reason he ditched her, maybe a misunderstanding we aren't privy to or outside context information, because you can't have a cozy romance where one of the leads is actually a horrible person. This is all acceptable foreknowledge; I was aware of all this going in and still wanted to read it. But also, I expect more than just a conversation clearing things up and then a resolution.
When I read a book I want to see some conflicts and then see them resolved somehow. Are they even sure they still love each other after all this time? Are there things getting in the way? MMC has a daughter now, what if daughter doesn't like FMC. What if daughter *does* like her and gets in the way? Maybe there's a subplot around the daughter and growing up as a teenager in a single parent household? These are all interesting questions I would have loved to read about... and they never happen. The book sets up one key conflict, the premise, and has no others. As soon as it's resolved the whole thing just kind of fizzles out, and because it is the only real conflict in the book, the main characters don't actually reunite until after the halfway point! The story just has nowhere to go once they do meet because there's only the one conflict and both our MCs have no obstacles preventing a relationship other than not having met.
Arran itself sounds lovely, and the setting was generally very fleshed out and nicely done, but otherwise, I felt like the story just fell flat because it just had no meat on its bones.
September 23, 2024
Beth is out of options. Her grand plan for her life hasn’t quite worked out the way she expected and her meteoric success in journalism has become a damp squib in the dying embers of London’s Fleet Street demise. Working at a coffee shop wasn’t exactly how she saw things going and just when you think things couldn’t get any worse, they do. A chance email, though, sets her back on a path that might not take her to interview the rich and famous, but will take her to the beautiful and atmospheric Arran just as winter approaches. With its new challenges and old faces, Beth realises she’s where her heart wants to be.
I really liked the fact that this books driving force is about rekindling friendships with people Beth has known before whilst making new ones hesitantly at first as anyone would moving to a “new” place and starting a new job, and before long knowing more than a few of the inhabitants whose daily lives she comes in contact with.
I don’t normally read “pure” romance (I prefer mine with a bit of mystery, murder or mayhem, or even all three) and I have to say I didn’t want to put this down. The story woven pulls together the lives of Beth and Callum, once separated by things beyond their control, in a realistic and warm fashion never once straying into twee. It feels more real than fiction although the way Beth got her car and also managed to keep her breakfast down on her first rough ferry crossing were a little far fetched, I really did feel like I was there on the island working at the paper alongside them.
Read this with a cosy blanket and a mug of hot chocolate and you’ll have the perfect afternoon.
I really liked the fact that this books driving force is about rekindling friendships with people Beth has known before whilst making new ones hesitantly at first as anyone would moving to a “new” place and starting a new job, and before long knowing more than a few of the inhabitants whose daily lives she comes in contact with.
I don’t normally read “pure” romance (I prefer mine with a bit of mystery, murder or mayhem, or even all three) and I have to say I didn’t want to put this down. The story woven pulls together the lives of Beth and Callum, once separated by things beyond their control, in a realistic and warm fashion never once straying into twee. It feels more real than fiction although the way Beth got her car and also managed to keep her breakfast down on her first rough ferry crossing were a little far fetched, I really did feel like I was there on the island working at the paper alongside them.
Read this with a cosy blanket and a mug of hot chocolate and you’ll have the perfect afternoon.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 28, 2024
4.5 rounded up. A Christmas Wish on Arran is the 4th book in the Scottish Romances series, but they can be read in any order or as standalone stories. In this book, Beth Ferguson is offered a job at the local paper on the isle of Arran. She leaves London, where she has suffered several losses and returns to a place where she was happy as a teen, before getting her big break in London. She also left behind her first love, Callum, 25 years earlier. She settles in nicely on the island and at the paper, but when she finds out that Callum is still on the island living with his teenage daughter, those old feelings begin to bloom again.
I enjoyed this story a lot. Beth is a woman who is taken advantage of in London and is afraid to tell anyone, including her father what happened. She heads to Arran, much closer to home, to lick her wounds and start again. She doesn't know what has happened in Callum's life. Why didn't he meet her at the train station as he had promised? Is he married? Callum is a wonderful male MC. He is caring and a bit self-sacrificing. He has secrets, at least from Beth, that he must share if he wants his feelings for Beth to go anywhere. There are some characters from the other books that I have read in the series that make an appearance and it was nice to see them again. This is a slow burn second chance romance that was delightful to read. The lovely setting of the Isle of Arran adds to the story and someday, I hope to visit it. Ellie Henderson has penned another lovely visit to Arran with a fun story, great relatable characters, some drama, and just enough festive activities and cheer to make this an enjoyable Christmas read.
I enjoyed this story a lot. Beth is a woman who is taken advantage of in London and is afraid to tell anyone, including her father what happened. She heads to Arran, much closer to home, to lick her wounds and start again. She doesn't know what has happened in Callum's life. Why didn't he meet her at the train station as he had promised? Is he married? Callum is a wonderful male MC. He is caring and a bit self-sacrificing. He has secrets, at least from Beth, that he must share if he wants his feelings for Beth to go anywhere. There are some characters from the other books that I have read in the series that make an appearance and it was nice to see them again. This is a slow burn second chance romance that was delightful to read. The lovely setting of the Isle of Arran adds to the story and someday, I hope to visit it. Ellie Henderson has penned another lovely visit to Arran with a fun story, great relatable characters, some drama, and just enough festive activities and cheer to make this an enjoyable Christmas read.
October 17, 2024
A Christmas Wish on Arran by Ellie Henderson is a well contrived story, easy reading, and enjoyable for any time of year, not just Christmas. The main characters are mature, hard-working, easy to like and believable. The supporting characters are all very – well – supporting. Even the teenagers!
The story starts with Elizabeth and Callum planning to go to London together after finishing their degrees, in order to follow their career dreams and make a life together. Callum does not turn up when they planned to start this adventure together, so Elizabeth goes by herself. For professional reasons she changes her name to Beth, makes a huge success of her career as a reporter, travels the world, has a lovely London apartment to live in, then meets catastrophe 20 years later with a downturn in her career and a disastrous boyfriend.
Serendipity strikes for Beth with a position opening at the local Newspaper on the Isle of Arran which is where Beth was brought up and is home to her. Of course when she arrives she finds Callum there, but she still hurts from his deserting her and their plans together when they were young, and he has teenager Daisy depending on him now. So there can be no instant reconciliation.
Ellie Henderson has very cleverly developed the history of the two thwarted lovers catching up with each other’s past few years gradually throughout the book in conversations and flash-backs, so we can relate to and eventually forgive both of them for not trying harder to find each other in the intervening years – as indeed and of course they eventually can forgive each other. This book is well written, the various personalities brought to life, there is plenty of peripheral action to keep the reader involved in what could have been (but is not) a rather bland story.
Do Beth and Callum end up back together again? I will not spoil the ending! But this is a happy book, a “Christmas Spirit and some snowflakes settle everything“ book.
I very much enjoyed reading this book.
The story starts with Elizabeth and Callum planning to go to London together after finishing their degrees, in order to follow their career dreams and make a life together. Callum does not turn up when they planned to start this adventure together, so Elizabeth goes by herself. For professional reasons she changes her name to Beth, makes a huge success of her career as a reporter, travels the world, has a lovely London apartment to live in, then meets catastrophe 20 years later with a downturn in her career and a disastrous boyfriend.
Serendipity strikes for Beth with a position opening at the local Newspaper on the Isle of Arran which is where Beth was brought up and is home to her. Of course when she arrives she finds Callum there, but she still hurts from his deserting her and their plans together when they were young, and he has teenager Daisy depending on him now. So there can be no instant reconciliation.
Ellie Henderson has very cleverly developed the history of the two thwarted lovers catching up with each other’s past few years gradually throughout the book in conversations and flash-backs, so we can relate to and eventually forgive both of them for not trying harder to find each other in the intervening years – as indeed and of course they eventually can forgive each other. This book is well written, the various personalities brought to life, there is plenty of peripheral action to keep the reader involved in what could have been (but is not) a rather bland story.
Do Beth and Callum end up back together again? I will not spoil the ending! But this is a happy book, a “Christmas Spirit and some snowflakes settle everything“ book.
I very much enjoyed reading this book.
October 24, 2024
I received an e-ARC of this book thanks to Joffe Books in exchange for an honest review, and I was absolutely delighted to be returning to Ellie Henderson's gorgeous Arran community. Although it is one of a series, this is a stand-alone novel. Life has dealt Beth a double blow in work and love, and she needs a place to reset herself. Returning to the Isle of Arran with a job as a local reporter is just what she needs to regain her confidence. Her heart was broken there years ago, but her first love can't possibly still be around - can he? But yes, Callum is still living there, and life hasn't been that kind to him either ...
It's great to have some main characters with some life experience behind them. There is no hand-wringing angst here, just a gentle slow rekindling of their attraction. But real life does keep getting in their way - will they be able to find a way back to one another?
There were some surprises for me in the story that follows. There are some twists and turns which I didn't see coming and which adds depth to the book and the characters. It really kept me reading to see how it was all going to come together. As always, the author has created a wonderful cast of characters, some of them returning from her other books. They are all well-rounded and believable - I especially love Masie and Margaret with their not-so-subtle matchmaking.
I put down the book with a warm, satisfied feeling. Although ostensibly a Christmas book, this is a heartwarming feel-good read, guaranteed to make you smile anytime of the year.
It's great to have some main characters with some life experience behind them. There is no hand-wringing angst here, just a gentle slow rekindling of their attraction. But real life does keep getting in their way - will they be able to find a way back to one another?
There were some surprises for me in the story that follows. There are some twists and turns which I didn't see coming and which adds depth to the book and the characters. It really kept me reading to see how it was all going to come together. As always, the author has created a wonderful cast of characters, some of them returning from her other books. They are all well-rounded and believable - I especially love Masie and Margaret with their not-so-subtle matchmaking.
I put down the book with a warm, satisfied feeling. Although ostensibly a Christmas book, this is a heartwarming feel-good read, guaranteed to make you smile anytime of the year.
December 4, 2024
I hadn’t realised when I picked up this book that it was part of a series of stories set on the Scottish Isle of Arran but whilst I suspect that there are reappearing characters in each of the books, not knowing much about their back story didn’t detract from the delight of spending time on Arran with Beth and Callum.
Beth is newly returned to Scotland after spending much of her adult life in London. Her arrival on Arran as the new reporter on the local newspaper allows her to take stock of her life, leaving her troubles behind and starting afresh in a place which is familiar as she spent some of her teenage years on the island, working and falling in love. When Beth accidentally bumps into Callum, now a grown up version of the boy she loved twenty-five years ago. However, Beth is torn between guarding her secrets or allowing life to offer her and Callum a second chance at happiness. This is such a lovely story as not only does the beautiful Isle of Arran comes alive but we also get to spend time with a lovely array of characters who bring a real heartwarming empathy to this delightful will they, won’t they story. The coziness of living in a small town comes to life and shows how supportive small communities can be when people need help.
Wonderfully festive, with oodles of charm, and a heartwarming love story at its heart, A Christmas Wish on Arran had everything I wanted from a festive read. It’s as comforting as a delicious hot chocolate sprinkled with cream and marshmallows and is perfect escapism from the Christmas rush.
September 27, 2024
3.5 ⭐
(I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review)
I had a lovely time reading this! Beth is a little bit lost in life and finds her way back to the island of Arran off the west coast of Scotland, an island she spent time on when she was much younger. Here, she starts afresh and ends up running into ex from 15 years ago, Callum.
I loved the layers of the story: both protagonists were much more developed than just being each other's romantic interests. I liked that for a romance, the romance wasn't the biggest focus for most of the story. In addition, the side characters were well developed, with the teenage characters were believable and enjoyable to read. Being Scottish, I think the location really appealed to me but you definitely don't need to have knowledge of Scotland or Arran to enjoy it.
That being said, a couple of the plot points made me think "oh, is that it?", especially after a lot of build up to "why did Callum ghost Beth 15 years ago?". In addition, it definitely felt like more of an autumn into winter vibe, with the Christmas vibe only hitting towards the very end.
I really enjoyed this read overall! I was rooting for the characters and it's a great cosy story for this time of year ✨
(I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review)
I had a lovely time reading this! Beth is a little bit lost in life and finds her way back to the island of Arran off the west coast of Scotland, an island she spent time on when she was much younger. Here, she starts afresh and ends up running into ex from 15 years ago, Callum.
I loved the layers of the story: both protagonists were much more developed than just being each other's romantic interests. I liked that for a romance, the romance wasn't the biggest focus for most of the story. In addition, the side characters were well developed, with the teenage characters were believable and enjoyable to read. Being Scottish, I think the location really appealed to me but you definitely don't need to have knowledge of Scotland or Arran to enjoy it.
That being said, a couple of the plot points made me think "oh, is that it?", especially after a lot of build up to "why did Callum ghost Beth 15 years ago?". In addition, it definitely felt like more of an autumn into winter vibe, with the Christmas vibe only hitting towards the very end.
I really enjoyed this read overall! I was rooting for the characters and it's a great cosy story for this time of year ✨
October 25, 2024
25 years ago, Elizabeth and Callum had big plans, but then Callum let Elizabeth down and she ended up leaving Arran behind her and using the shortened version of her name – Beth.
So A Christmas Wish on Arran is a second chance romance, but what makes this one is the ages of our couple. It’s rare to get one that’s more mature and it made a very refreshing change. The reason behind the break-up is solid as well… and has repercussions for Callum in particular, but also for Beth as the two reconnect.
I loved Beth. I rooted for her to get her man and her happy ending. I wasn’t keen on Callum at first, but once the reasoning for him ghosting Beth was revealed, I could forgive him.
The setting is cosy, with a lovely community, and it really draws the reader in. This was my first “trip” to Arran and I fell in love with it all. I really must read the rest of the series! It being the fourth book didn’t spoil my reading experience in the slightest.
Quick note: there are some sad elements to the storyline that related to side characters, so go carefully if illness or loss of loved ones could be difficult for you to read. However, this is a delightful, festive read and I’m really glad for the chance to review it.
So A Christmas Wish on Arran is a second chance romance, but what makes this one is the ages of our couple. It’s rare to get one that’s more mature and it made a very refreshing change. The reason behind the break-up is solid as well… and has repercussions for Callum in particular, but also for Beth as the two reconnect.
I loved Beth. I rooted for her to get her man and her happy ending. I wasn’t keen on Callum at first, but once the reasoning for him ghosting Beth was revealed, I could forgive him.
The setting is cosy, with a lovely community, and it really draws the reader in. This was my first “trip” to Arran and I fell in love with it all. I really must read the rest of the series! It being the fourth book didn’t spoil my reading experience in the slightest.
Quick note: there are some sad elements to the storyline that related to side characters, so go carefully if illness or loss of loved ones could be difficult for you to read. However, this is a delightful, festive read and I’m really glad for the chance to review it.
November 4, 2024
A Christmas Wish on Arran, by Elllie Henderson, is the story of journalist Beth Ferguson and the circuitous route over a couple of decades as she travels from Arran and Edinburgh to a career in London traveling the world in search of the story, to the downfall of such things with Covid, and to returning to her roots as she was first offered a job at the Isle of Arran newspaper before ever heading to London.
As Beth reconnects with former friend Kirsty and makes friends with her publisher Jim’s wife Fiona, she settles in to her new home. Being only a ferry ride from her elderly father is a bonus. But the advances made by the local hotel manager are unwelcome and the discovery that Callum Thompson, the man who broke her heart so long ago, creates an angst for Beth to deal with. The fact that the teenage girl, Daisy, that Beth is working with on the high school newspaper is Callum’s ward only adds to the confusion of the tale.
This lovely story brings not only the people of this lovely island to the public but also brings the island to the reader. I very much enjoyed this book and I do recommend it!
As Beth reconnects with former friend Kirsty and makes friends with her publisher Jim’s wife Fiona, she settles in to her new home. Being only a ferry ride from her elderly father is a bonus. But the advances made by the local hotel manager are unwelcome and the discovery that Callum Thompson, the man who broke her heart so long ago, creates an angst for Beth to deal with. The fact that the teenage girl, Daisy, that Beth is working with on the high school newspaper is Callum’s ward only adds to the confusion of the tale.
This lovely story brings not only the people of this lovely island to the public but also brings the island to the reader. I very much enjoyed this book and I do recommend it!
October 16, 2024
Beth is out of options. Her grand plan for her life hasn’t quite worked out the way she expected and her meteoric success in journalism has become a damp squib in the dying embers of London’s Fleet Street demise. Working at a coffee shop wasn’t exactly how she saw things going and just when you think things couldn’t get any worse, they do. A chance email, though, sets her back on a path that might not take her to interview the rich and famous, but will take her to the beautiful and atmospheric Arran just as winter approaches. With its new challenges and old faces, Beth realises she’s where her heart wants to be.
I really liked the fact that this books driving force is about rekindling friendships with people Beth has known before whilst making new ones hesitantly at first as anyone would moving to a “new” place and starting a new job, and before long knowing more than a few of the inhabitants whose daily lives she comes in contact with.
I don’t normally read “pure” romance (I prefer mine with a bit of mystery, murder or mayhem, or even all three) and I have to say I didn’t want to put this down. The story woven pulls together the lives of Beth and Callum, once separated by things beyond their control, in a realistic and warm fashion never once straying into twee. It feels more real than fiction although the way Beth got her car and also managed to keep her breakfast down on her first rough ferry crossing were a little far fetched, I really did feel like I was there on the island working at the paper alongside them.
Read this with a cosy blanket and a mug of hot chocolate and you’ll have the perfect afternoon.
I really liked the fact that this books driving force is about rekindling friendships with people Beth has known before whilst making new ones hesitantly at first as anyone would moving to a “new” place and starting a new job, and before long knowing more than a few of the inhabitants whose daily lives she comes in contact with.
I don’t normally read “pure” romance (I prefer mine with a bit of mystery, murder or mayhem, or even all three) and I have to say I didn’t want to put this down. The story woven pulls together the lives of Beth and Callum, once separated by things beyond their control, in a realistic and warm fashion never once straying into twee. It feels more real than fiction although the way Beth got her car and also managed to keep her breakfast down on her first rough ferry crossing were a little far fetched, I really did feel like I was there on the island working at the paper alongside them.
Read this with a cosy blanket and a mug of hot chocolate and you’ll have the perfect afternoon.
October 22, 2024
I have never been to Scotland but am ready to pack my bags right now. The Isle of Arran sounds so exciting, and the descriptions are breathtaking.
This is the type of book once you start it nothing else around you exist until it's completed. I just got lost in it and had to know how it'd end.
Festively fun and heartwarming. I love the characters and seeing their character development as the story went along.
Full of surprises, from did that really happen to how can that be possible moments. I loved everything about this book. I so love a warm family-oriented Christmas story it warms the heart so much.
A bit of a scare brings a family even closer together and I loved seeing this.
Can a past heartbreak be explained away? Anything is possible during this magical time of Christmas when misunderstandings are healed, and love is the healing balm.
Beautiful, I so loved this and recommend it to all! A read again Christmas story.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.
This is the type of book once you start it nothing else around you exist until it's completed. I just got lost in it and had to know how it'd end.
Festively fun and heartwarming. I love the characters and seeing their character development as the story went along.
Full of surprises, from did that really happen to how can that be possible moments. I loved everything about this book. I so love a warm family-oriented Christmas story it warms the heart so much.
A bit of a scare brings a family even closer together and I loved seeing this.
Can a past heartbreak be explained away? Anything is possible during this magical time of Christmas when misunderstandings are healed, and love is the healing balm.
Beautiful, I so loved this and recommend it to all! A read again Christmas story.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.
October 22, 2024
Oh we all need a warm and cosy second chance romance to pull on those festive heartstring, don't we? I know it was just what I needed, especially when it is a wonderfully written, Scottish based romance. Yay, for the Isle of Arran! It is a stunning place in real life, so it is even more wonderful to get to celebrate it in a book, especially a festive book.
I really loved our two main characters. They were both so much fun to get to know. It was especially nice to get to know Beth, and her backstory. We have all experienced that first major heartbreak and remember how we felt we could never face them again. The author really portrayed that well and did an even better job sharing the feeling of what it was like to realize those warm feelings were very much still there, even after all this time.
The story was fun and had a lovely level of excitement and romance, but still very realistic, as they warmed to each other slowly and tried hard to fight the feelings, as we all would. It was a great read for sure.
I really loved our two main characters. They were both so much fun to get to know. It was especially nice to get to know Beth, and her backstory. We have all experienced that first major heartbreak and remember how we felt we could never face them again. The author really portrayed that well and did an even better job sharing the feeling of what it was like to realize those warm feelings were very much still there, even after all this time.
The story was fun and had a lovely level of excitement and romance, but still very realistic, as they warmed to each other slowly and tried hard to fight the feelings, as we all would. It was a great read for sure.
November 12, 2024
25 years ago Lizzie and Callum agreed to meet at the train station, that is if Callum really wanted to go with Lizzie to London to start their lives and careers together, but he never shows. Lizzie, now known as Beth, has a faltering career as a journalist in London has a second chance to return to Arran for work. Will things work out unlike last time?
This book is definitely that of a Hallmark movie! If you want safe Christmas tropes set on a small Scottish island this book is perfect! Easy, quick and full of largely expected twists, with a few unexpected ones to actually keep you somewhat on your toes! I loved that this was about an older couple than you normally see in a lot of popular romances with the main characters being in their 40s and getting a second shot at love together! So if like me, you love a Hallmark Christmas style movie (because it’s always a safe “new” watch) this is perfect for you! And yes despite this being a series it works perfectly fine as a standalone!
Thanks to NetGalley and Choc Lit and Joffe Books for this ARC!
3.5⭐️
This book is definitely that of a Hallmark movie! If you want safe Christmas tropes set on a small Scottish island this book is perfect! Easy, quick and full of largely expected twists, with a few unexpected ones to actually keep you somewhat on your toes! I loved that this was about an older couple than you normally see in a lot of popular romances with the main characters being in their 40s and getting a second shot at love together! So if like me, you love a Hallmark Christmas style movie (because it’s always a safe “new” watch) this is perfect for you! And yes despite this being a series it works perfectly fine as a standalone!
Thanks to NetGalley and Choc Lit and Joffe Books for this ARC!
3.5⭐️
October 2, 2024
An easy read, set in November/ December but not super Christmassy.
Definitely my favourite from this author so far.
I would have loved a bit more romance- the 2 main characters don’t really reconnect until quite far through the book, and we never get to see much of their relationship rekindle or progress, but I enjoyed the rest of the story before it and found myself wanting to keep picking it back up. Beth was an easy character to warm to, as was Callum. I’d have loved to see them filling each other in on the past 25 years too as we really only learned about this through conversations with other characters.
There are some very sad elements to the storyline (relating to side characters) so go carefully if illness/ loss of loved ones may be difficult for you to read.
Thank you to the author and NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Definitely my favourite from this author so far.
I would have loved a bit more romance- the 2 main characters don’t really reconnect until quite far through the book, and we never get to see much of their relationship rekindle or progress, but I enjoyed the rest of the story before it and found myself wanting to keep picking it back up. Beth was an easy character to warm to, as was Callum. I’d have loved to see them filling each other in on the past 25 years too as we really only learned about this through conversations with other characters.
There are some very sad elements to the storyline (relating to side characters) so go carefully if illness/ loss of loved ones may be difficult for you to read.
Thank you to the author and NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
October 24, 2024
Beth Ferguson is struggling in London, her journalistic career is in tatters and in desperation she crawls back to the Isle of Arran where she is offered the post of local reporter.
But Arran holds memories for her too, her first and consuming love, Callum was from there and he broke her 25 years before.
But surely after all this time he wouldn't still be there and have moved on like her?
Correction, he IS still there and so are all the old feelings.
Things have changed for both of them but how long can they hide from each other in such a small community and can they keep their feelings in check...?
Aww this was such a sweet romance, I cared for and was cheering for the characters all through.
A perfect, Christmas feel good read for the festive season.
Never read this author before but love her work going on this novel.
But Arran holds memories for her too, her first and consuming love, Callum was from there and he broke her 25 years before.
But surely after all this time he wouldn't still be there and have moved on like her?
Correction, he IS still there and so are all the old feelings.
Things have changed for both of them but how long can they hide from each other in such a small community and can they keep their feelings in check...?
Aww this was such a sweet romance, I cared for and was cheering for the characters all through.
A perfect, Christmas feel good read for the festive season.
Never read this author before but love her work going on this novel.
October 10, 2024
This is a cozy book, but it was not quite the kind of story I expected. I expected a lot more direct interactions between the two main characters. Half of the book is literally learning about the two people separately.
*Mild Spoilers*
You are told (not shown) how they met when they were young. Then, the main character's didn't even set eyes on each other until 40% into the book. They didn't have a serious interaction until 75% in! Even when they do finally talk, very little is shown on the page, so I was still left wondering why they had such a connection years ago.
Some people may enjoy this formula, but it's not for me.
Thank you NetGalley for giving me access to an eARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
*Mild Spoilers*
You are told (not shown) how they met when they were young. Then, the main character's didn't even set eyes on each other until 40% into the book. They didn't have a serious interaction until 75% in! Even when they do finally talk, very little is shown on the page, so I was still left wondering why they had such a connection years ago.
Some people may enjoy this formula, but it's not for me.
Thank you NetGalley for giving me access to an eARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 24, 2024
The perfect cozy read you need this winter...
Beth left Scotland to return to Arran, where she hasn't been for more than 20 years, Arran is where Beth spent her holidays working in a local hotel, mixing with the local community, and one in particular person that goes by the name of Callum who lets say had broken her heart badly but has he moved on?
Beth was adamant she would never meet him again, even when she started her new role in the local newspaper.
Little did she know that Callum is still living there and they clearly have unfinished business to attend to, but will Beth learn to trust him again or will she let him go?
A must read for the winter season, wrap up in a cozy blanket and head off to Arran!
Beth left Scotland to return to Arran, where she hasn't been for more than 20 years, Arran is where Beth spent her holidays working in a local hotel, mixing with the local community, and one in particular person that goes by the name of Callum who lets say had broken her heart badly but has he moved on?
Beth was adamant she would never meet him again, even when she started her new role in the local newspaper.
Little did she know that Callum is still living there and they clearly have unfinished business to attend to, but will Beth learn to trust him again or will she let him go?
A must read for the winter season, wrap up in a cozy blanket and head off to Arran!
October 27, 2024
I'm reviewing this as part of a tour with Hygge Book Tours.
When I first started reading, something about the protagonist, Beth, went straight to my heart, and I felt an instant connection with her. Reading on, I realised that she reminded me a little of myself.
I quickly warmed to the characters as well, and felt very much at home with them. The chapters were short, so this was easily readable and comforting. I enjoyed relaxing with it as an evening read.
This book had a festive flavour, but I think it would be a heartwarming read for any time of the year. It made me smile, but there were also some tearjerker moments, and it was lovely to read.
Thank you to Hygge Book Tours, and to the author and publisher, for the opportunity to read and review this.
When I first started reading, something about the protagonist, Beth, went straight to my heart, and I felt an instant connection with her. Reading on, I realised that she reminded me a little of myself.
I quickly warmed to the characters as well, and felt very much at home with them. The chapters were short, so this was easily readable and comforting. I enjoyed relaxing with it as an evening read.
This book had a festive flavour, but I think it would be a heartwarming read for any time of the year. It made me smile, but there were also some tearjerker moments, and it was lovely to read.
Thank you to Hygge Book Tours, and to the author and publisher, for the opportunity to read and review this.
September 19, 2024
As a reader who always likes to see characters meeting again (and, of course, falling in love again) after years apart, I particularly enjoyed this new visit to Arran. Beth and Callum missed out on so many years together for a reason that wasn't either of them's fault, it makes it even better to see them reunited by the end.
Also, those like me who have read the author's other books set on the same island will recognise a few characters - but don't worry if you haven't met them yet: this story works perfectly by itself, and it won't be too late to find out afterwards who appeared in a previous book or two.
I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Also, those like me who have read the author's other books set on the same island will recognise a few characters - but don't worry if you haven't met them yet: this story works perfectly by itself, and it won't be too late to find out afterwards who appeared in a previous book or two.
I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
October 16, 2024
A Lovely Book
25 years after she left Scotland to work in London, Beth is returning to Arran, an island she had spent her student holidays working in an hotel, mixing with the local teenagers, particularly Callum, the man who broke her heart, but surely he would have moved on years ago, Beth was sure there would be no chance of meeting him again when she started her new job on the local paper. Fate can play tricks on you however, and Callum is still living there and it seems they have unfinished business, but can Beth learn to trust him again? This is a lovely book which I really enjoyed.
25 years after she left Scotland to work in London, Beth is returning to Arran, an island she had spent her student holidays working in an hotel, mixing with the local teenagers, particularly Callum, the man who broke her heart, but surely he would have moved on years ago, Beth was sure there would be no chance of meeting him again when she started her new job on the local paper. Fate can play tricks on you however, and Callum is still living there and it seems they have unfinished business, but can Beth learn to trust him again? This is a lovely book which I really enjoyed.
September 24, 2024
I was so grateful to receive this as an ARC. This was such a beautiful and heartwarming story of Beth and Callum's second chance at love. There's some assumptions made, a few well-meaning elderly ladies playing at match-making, and plenty of wonderful familial support. The pacing of the reveals for the story were done well with keeping the reader engaged, but not frustrated. I am definitely wanting to read the rest of the stories that take place on this dreamy (okay, very Scottish weather) island!
October 27, 2024
I enjoyed this delightful story of missed chances and revived memories for Beth and Callum when she decides to return to Arran.
As the close-knit island prepares for Christmas, Beth reconnects with Arran’s magic. But it’s Callum who pulls at her heartstrings. And when tragedy strikes, it’s Callum who shows Beth that time and distance can’t change what the heart really wants. Can the magic of Christmas give Beth and Callum the second chance they need?
A festive romance perfect for a wintry afternoon.
As the close-knit island prepares for Christmas, Beth reconnects with Arran’s magic. But it’s Callum who pulls at her heartstrings. And when tragedy strikes, it’s Callum who shows Beth that time and distance can’t change what the heart really wants. Can the magic of Christmas give Beth and Callum the second chance they need?
A festive romance perfect for a wintry afternoon.
December 6, 2024
This is the first book that I’ve read by this author, but I’m a sucker for a an illustrated cover, and being from Scotland myself I like to read books set here. This was a sweet, easy reading book. Typically what you would expect for a Christmas read. The editing let it down and stopped me giving more stars. The first 50% of the book was slow going, but once Beth and Callum got to know each other again it was more interesting and I read the last 50% more quickly. All in all, it was an okay read.
September 19, 2024
Es un libro ligero, rápido de leer, entretenido y con HEA asegurado.
Le faltó profundizar más en las vidas de Beth y Callum durante los 25 años de separación, me hubiera gustado ver cómo fue cuando él tuvo que dejarla ir, los viajes de ella e incluso saber un poco sobre sus parejas y como fue el último año antes de reencontrarse.
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Le faltó profundizar más en las vidas de Beth y Callum durante los 25 años de separación, me hubiera gustado ver cómo fue cuando él tuvo que dejarla ir, los viajes de ella e incluso saber un poco sobre sus parejas y como fue el último año antes de reencontrarse.
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
September 29, 2024
A heartwarming contemporary romance set on a Scottish isle about second chances, second chances at life and love. Although part of a series, I had no problem reading as a stand-alone even though this one was the first I've read by this author. It's a quick and easy read with likeable characters in a gorgeous setting. The island communities and the residents are welcoming and comforting. A sweet and uplifting story for a rainy or wintry day.
Publisher Review Copy
Publisher Review Copy
October 24, 2024
The setting of this book is perfect for a Christmas read, such a beautiful place and real community feel shone through in the story. Beth and Callum were both wonderfully written, and well-rounded characters, both inside and outside the romance. This was a really easy, heartwarming read, perfect for cozying up with through the winter months. Although it was the fourth in a series, it absolutely can be read as a standalone too!
October 25, 2024
A Christmas wish on Arran by Ellie Henderson.
Scottish Romances Book 4.
This was a lovely read. I loved the cover and blurb. I got into the story straight away. I loved the characters Beth, Callum, Daisy, Edie, Jim, Freya, Kirsty, and more. This was a lovely feel-good read. I read this in two sittings. I couldn't put it down. I loved how helpful they all were, especially Kirsty and Edie. I do hope there is more to come. I would recommend this book.
Scottish Romances Book 4.
This was a lovely read. I loved the cover and blurb. I got into the story straight away. I loved the characters Beth, Callum, Daisy, Edie, Jim, Freya, Kirsty, and more. This was a lovely feel-good read. I read this in two sittings. I couldn't put it down. I loved how helpful they all were, especially Kirsty and Edie. I do hope there is more to come. I would recommend this book.
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