Love in the Scottish Christmas Village

Escape to Scotland #5

by Beatrice Bradshaw

Just once. No strings. That was the deal.
Photographer Trish never planned to hook up with her best friend’s boyfriend’s friend in the linen closet. But that’s exactly what happens during the opening party of Marla’s castle in the Scottish Highlands. Trish leaves with two thoughts. Number don’t look back. Number too bad we were interrupted.

Now winter has rolled in, and Marla invites Trish back to capture her castle’s holiday charm. Trish jumps at the chance – definitely not because she can’t stop thinking about Jack, the rugged single dad who made the shelves rattle and her knees melt.

For Jack, life’s about his three kids, dealing with his ex-wife, and keeping things easy. Relationships? Hard pass. But with Trish back in Kilcranach, that one-night stand turns into daily run-ins, shared smiles, and an attraction he can’t ignore – or act on. The last thing this postman needs is a distraction during the Christmas rush. Or to go viral with a sexy Santa photo.

She’s a nerdy perfectionist with big dreams. He’s a commitment-phobic small-town postie. As December’s festivities push them together, they're finding their one-night deal might be the worst-kept secret in Scotland. And they’re falling faster than the snowflakes.

But can they risk their hearts on a love that was never supposed to happen?

Love in the Scottish Christmas Village is a short and sizzling holiday romance with a quirky small-town community, Christmas magic, and enough heat to melt the Highland frost.

Genres: Christmas, Scotland, Romance

258 pages, Paperback

Published December 4, 2024

About the author

Beatrice Bradshaw crafts spicy contemporary romances set across Scotland – whisking readers away to glens and windswept coastlines without the need for a plane ticket!

Reviews

[Tarrah · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a cute book, but I wish we had more of the characters' backstories. They both had interesting issues in their past, and it would have been interesting to explore more of those, maybe through flashbacks?

Also, don't put candy canes in pH balanced locations in your body, that way there be yeast infections on the horizon.




I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Madison Rusnell · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5⭐️
3🌶️

Beatrice describes the area around them so beautifully that it makes me even more sad that I've never been to Scotland. This whole book made me homesick for a place I've never been. The storyline itself I kinda felt was a little bit dragged out but it was still very good. A good read for this time of year! Also, there are candy cane shenanigans, and if that's not a good reason to read a book then I don't know what is!

[Devon Knick · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was my least favorite out of the series. I think both main characters had too much self loathing for me and I dont think their chemistry was that great. It was still a fun read. I was just disappointed after loving the other books.

[Jane litherland · Rating 5 out of 5]

Photographer Trish starts this story off and it’s immersive already “The Edinburgh Christmas Market sprawled across East Princes Street Gardens, a kaleidoscope that begged to be captured through her lens.Not the glitz, but the grit.” Doesn’t sound half bad does it? I love how Beatrice Bradshaw writes her awesome books . Involved and taken on a journey are we so pleasantly ,yet there’s the grit of real life shining through.There’s feisty and there’s Trish , she’s had enough of this! She insists .Her move to Edinburgh from London though was vital , to keep her sane , close enough to her friend Marla and away from Marc her beau for ten years until an amicable split six months or so, I think was it ago? But how she feels that he’s moved on , well it’s hard to take in she’d rather not have the chance to see that romance! Marla has invited Trish back to capture her castle’s charm. Trish thinks what’s the harm? Especially as she can’t help thinking about Jack….Her mind already sends her back to those moments…Jack is a postman , he keeps on running into the gorgeous Trish, shared smiles and looks so beguiling too remembering that kiss…but no he can’t go there he’s got too much to do . Like Santa with his sack so heavy , Jack the postman is so busy he can’t even stop for a bevy?! But with a bevy of beauty such as she is , it’s soon very hard to resist . “ ‘Fuck. Trish. Don’t kiss me like that.’ ‘What… Like what?’ ‘So fucking sweet.’ ‘Jack…’ ‘I know. You’re leaving soon. I’m a mess. Our friends… This is a bad idea ‘ “The worst.’ ‘A disaster.But you want this.’ ‘Do I? And…what makes you so sure?’ ‘Because I can see it in your eyes.The same hunger that’s been eating me alive since that day.’ ‘Yes… But this is crazy,’ Crazy it may be . For each other ,it’s plain to see. Spicy and sweet , talking of which …Candy Canes should come with a government sexual health warning …don’t they make you itch? …hmmm maybe there’s something to these sweet treats after all , they certainly had a free for all . A ball ! Don’t knock it till you’ve tried it I suppose. Their secret may be out . Do they scream and shout with fervour or disappear for another year? Their love was never meant to be ,but when you have sweet fantasies that come true , what you gonna do? This Scottish village has found a new couple of lovers to walk down lover’s lane ,I foresee. Because their sweet love is heavenly. A spice lover’s dream , ecstasy! Beatrice Bradshaw’s supreme at writing this wit and charm and sexy stuff thats sublime every time , I for one can’t get enough of it. Storytelling is fantastic and oomph, it’s got a lot. I can’t wait for book six already. Just enough time to get my tingling nerves steady . This book sure is heady and it’s neat , it’s packed with cute and lovey dovey and hmmmm heat.

[Mo Chapter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love in the Scottish Christmas Village is is the fifth book in Beatrice Bradshaw’s Escape to Scotland series, and it’s a delightful festive treat!
Returning to the charming village of Kilcranach in the Scottish Highlands felt like reuniting with an old friend – even though I’ve only read the first book so far. While I still have three other installments to catch up on, this one stands perfectly on its own. That said, I can’t wait to dive into the escapades I’ve missed!
This time, the spotlight is on Jack, the rugged local postman and single dad, and Trish, a photographer visiting from Edinburgh. The two had previously shared a steamy encounter in a linen closet (a scene I now need to revisit in an earlier book). Though they agreed it was a one-time thing – he has his hands full with his kids and avoids serious relationships, while she dreams of traveling the world as a photographer – their undeniable chemistry lingers when Trish returns to Kilcranach for the holidays. Their journey from “friends-without-benefits” to undeniable lovers is filled with wit, passion, and plenty of sizzle. The push-and-pull between Jack’s commitment-averse practicality and Trish’s wanderlust adds depth to their fiery romance. Be prepared for some spicy scenes!
The story is thoroughly engaging, blending steamy moments with heartwarming scenes and laugh-out-loud humor. Bradshaw masterfully captures the festive magic of the season, painting the Highlands as a snow-dusted wonderland brimming with small-town charm. Kilcranach itself feels as warm and inviting as the villagers and the relationships that blossom there.
With its quirky small-town community, touches of Christmas magic, and enough heat to melt any Highland frost, Love in the Scottish Christmas Village is a quick-read, sizzling festive romance that will leave you smiling. So grab yourself a copy, get cozy, and read on—this is the perfect seasonal escape!

[ReadIntoWonderland · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.75 stars

If you are looking for a nice short holiday story that isn't so aggressively Christmas, this is the book for you. It was a wonderful time to read with the perfect blend of wholesome and steamy moments. I found it to be incredibly heartwarming from cover to cover. It was the perfect ay to wrap up this series in a full circle moment.

The banter in this one was so good! Beatrice truly never disappoints with the quips between her characters. The lighthearted teasing will always be my favorite.

Can I take a moment to share my appreciation for the giant Christmas tree scene? It was purely hilarious and perfectly done. It genuinely made me pause reading just to laugh.

One of my favorite aspects of this book is how the MCs actually communicate with each other. They act like mature adults and take the time to communicate about how they are feeling and share any concerns they have. Healthy relationships like Trish and Jack's need to be in books more often.

I also want to take a moment to applaud Beatrice for including LGBTQ+ side characters once again. This natural inclusion is exactly what I hope for as a queer person reading a MF romance.

This book does contain spicy scenes that contribute to the plot. If that is not your thing, I do not recommend this series.

Overall, I highly recommend this one for people that don't like too much holiday madness but still want to feel seasonal. It was a really sweet time that was perfectly crafted for a good time.

I received this book as an arc from the author. My review is honest and voluntary.

[Emma · Rating 5 out of 5]

Postman romance. Who knew that could be a thing? Well, Beatrice Bradshaw did, and once again she delivers on the steamy, small town heartwarming front with this tale of sexy single dad postie, Jack, and unassuming photographer Trish.

So, Trish’s tale is one that could happen to any of us, or maybe we hope it could. She has a one night stand in the linen closet at her friend’s party with postman, Jack, but the goods are not quite delivered, so to speak. Without a “sorry you were out” card to claim what she is owed, Trish heads back to Kilcranach. Okay, she goes back for other reasons, but the temptation to hook up with hot under the blue collar postman, Jack, is waved right under her nose again. But are there too many complications?

Trish and Jack are an adorable couple with complex problems who you will be rooting for as they navigate the difficulties of his single dad/irascible ex situation and her work commitments and low self-belief.

The setting of Kilcranach is a star in itself and wouldn’t we all just love to live there with its colourful cast of characters, vibrant nightlife (lively pub) and heart melting delivery worker?

The love scenes are smoking hot yet still tasteful. Jack has a wee bit of a mouth on him, a fine sized package and cares which way is up, so Trish and the reader are in for a good time.

Pick up Love in the Scottish Christmas Village, post haste, and, through Beatrice Bradshaw’s spellbinding writing, get first class delivery to the Highlands of Scotland and all its beauty, splendour and romance.

[Ashley · Rating 5 out of 5]

An absolutely delightful read - Beatrice once again engulfs us in a charming Scottish village where we can watch two hurt people find their way to happiness again. I was lucky enough to beta read this one and I will start with this:

The. Candy. Cane. Scene. Phew. Y'all are not ready.

You get the charm of re-centering yourself in the country after a needed escape from the city, you have a fantastic single dad doing his absolute best to show his kids and his ex that he can do fatherhood and do it well.. some of our previous delightful side characters make a reappearance and there are some delightful Santa Shenanigans.

Beatrice absolutely wins at writing characters who have flaws that are reflective of real life experiences and traumas. Discussions of questioning a career and your whole life in your 30's, being a single parent desperate to live up to the high standards you place on yourself, and wearing a persona to the world at large that hides the hurt and tenderness you feel at being disappointed in yourself.

You're going to get so much more from this story than simply reading a fun, spicy romance in a perfect holiday setting. You're going to see a beautiful story between two people unfold as they work to find their sparks in themselves again.

[Coffeenbooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

- Single father

- Small town romance

- Friend of a friend

- One night encounter

- Friends without benefits

- Snowed in

I absolutely love this series! This is the 5th book in the Escape to Scotland series and may be my favorite!

Featuring single father postie Jack and freelance photographer Trish, this story is mainly about feelings of self worth. After Jack's marriage ends, he becomes the king of casual encounters. Trish, fresh from a failed relationship, is questioning that she has the necessary skills to become a full time photographer. She takes up her friend Marla's request to take photos of the Kilcranach castle, even though she and Jack had a interrupted encounter in the closet during a party… after which she totally ghosted him.

Jack is a bit nervous that he is still thinking about Trish after the encounter. Maybe it wasn't as casual as he thought? But with Trish's friend Marla being the girlfriend of Jack's best friend Niall, he vows to keep his distance from Trish. Which is proving more difficult than he thought….

I adored how Jack and Trish interact with each other and build up the other. True, they are tearing themselves down at first while doing that, but the fact that they truly see each other made this a memorable book.

[Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the fifth book in this series and we return to Kilcranach. When Marla rings Trish to help with the festive events, she packs up without a second thought. What is there to keep her in Edinburgh no different than leaving London and her ex behind. She still didn't feelnas belonged anywhere, maybe time with her best friend could help. Although if she was to be honest maybe seeing Jack again was an added bonus. Although a one night nearly encounter didn't mean anything or did it, but she wasn't going to admit anything. Jack is a divorced postman with three kids who he fought to have equal custody off, and yes ok he's a ladies man as long as its not in his own village and there was never a second time. But when he bumps into Trish whilst delivering the mail quite literally ending up on top of each other, he realises once wasn't enough. This is a brilliant read, with laugh out loud moments and small village community. Can these two let down the walls they have or will they just hide behind the friends they keep saying they are. I must admit some of the scottish words took a bit of getting used too but I loved this book.

[Corinne Rodrigues · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's a sweet Christmas romance set in the charming Scottish village of Kilcranach. Trish, a driven photographer and rugged single dad have a one-time sexual encounter when she visited the village.

When Trish goes back to Kilcranach for a work assignment, Trish and Jack's unresolved feelings flare up unexpectedly, leaving them both unprepared for the consequences.

The protagonist, Trish, is delightfully nerdy and determined; her artistic eye and perfectionism add layers to her character. The conflict between her aspirations and her feelings for Jack makes her struggles relatable. Meanwhile, Jack is a hero with wonderful complexity. The emotional distance he keeps, stemming from his devotion to his three children and reluctance to be vulnerable, is both understandable and appealing.

An authentic and satisfying romance blossoms from their crackling chemistry, fueled by witty banter, stolen moments, and vulnerability.

The charming and humorous village folk complement the magical, festive backdrop of Scotland.

If you love slow-burn romances and holiday cheer, this book will bring a smile to your face and a longing for a cozy Highland winter.

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

🎁Conflicted Jack was the star of this holiday romance!😍

4.5🌟 stars
Plenty of great facets to this story, such as:

-Scottish Highlands, small-town setting;

-all the Christmas cheer and feels, with blankets of snow and a castle festooned with all the trappings;

-two lead characters with self confidence issues; and

- good balance of romantic and steamy moments.

But, by far, my favorite element was divorced father Jack and his three children. Jack was such a tragically endearing character. His rough childhood, his fear of losing custody of Junior, Beth and Phil, his steady but far from lucrative job as a local postman. This is a guy who feels overwhelmed and inferior when it comes to relationships. I was particularly moved by him, especially when he measures himself against Trish and rates himself not good enough.

I have not yet read the first Escape to Scotland novel that featured Marla, Trish's BFF, and the event where Jack and Trish first met. I intend to, but not having read it first didn't in any way detract from my enjoyment here.

[Lyn Brownlie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sexy, fun and a perfect Christmas story
I loved this gorgeous story from start to finish.
Both Trish and Jack were overcoming bad relationships and definitely had their own issues to face, but they could not fight their undeniable attraction to each other.
With lots of steam and plenty of sexual banter, this story was fun.
Jack definitely had the right words and moves to bring Trish out of her shell and it was a delight to read.
Add in a Sexy Santa, the people of the village, three gorgeous children and time spent in a Scottish castle and this story comes alive with Christmas cheer and the possibility of new love.
If only they can be brave, open up and discuss what is best for the two of them before it’s too late.
Can they both get their happily ever after?
I love Beatrice’s writing style, her words flow beautifully and it’s so easy to imagine you’re right there alongside these characters.
As mentioned earlier, a delight to read.

[Lita · Rating 5 out of 5]

Trish and Jack are the impossible love story that this author somehow wove into a beautiful happily ever after. Though the page number is low, Beatrice somehow packed in a heaping amount of romance and spice while not sacrificing the overarching story. Jack does not fit your typical single dad trope but rather brings a refreshing and more realistic look that comes with the struggles and considerations required of putting family first. Trish does not "need a man" to be worthy, but Jack's unending support and encouragement to pursue her dreams gives her the push in the direction she never knew she needed. I loved that this book was a quick read without sacrificing any of the story. I cannot wait for Beatrice's next story!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Sorina · Rating 4 out of 5]

Trish and Jack’s story is great for the holidays. It is a short, quick read with Christmas feels in a Scottish small town.
Trish is a photographer and Jack is a postman that also plays Santa during the holidays.
The chemistry between them is palpable and I enjoyed their banter. Both have self confidence issues and think a relationship would be a bad idea.

The story is engaging, really funny (even the swearing is hilarious) and there is a balance between plot and spice.
Jack is a single dad with 3 children and tries his best to keep the custody. I liked that everyone helps him and act like family.
For Trish, the community from the Scottish small town also became a family, one that appreciates her and her talent.

I received a digital copy of the book from the author and Booksirens. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[Ineta · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it from the first page. And I was so happy to have it. I am fan of Beatrice Bradshaw and her Escape to Scotland series. I love her writing style and story lines.
Loved Jack and Trish, Scotland's Sexiest Santa and his personal paparazzi. She came to Kilcranach for a story, instead she found something much bigger. And lost it in the same breath. They both had been hurted before and the idea of being hurt again make them run. From their feelings, from each other. Again and again. And he has commitment issues, 3 kids, but she - her big dreams. How can it go together?
Spicy, snowy, full of festive magic, cozy romance, loved community and all characters. just amazing reading, perfect for Christmas time!
Received a copy from the Author and this is my honest review.

[Kristie Wagner · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a sweet, sweeping romance. After a chance encounter, Trish and Jack still think about each other. But when they're back in the same place they find it hard to resist....whatever is between them. Even though it could never work, because after her visit she'll be gone. Right?

Watching Trish and Jack find not only each other but themselves was such a heartwarming journey. I loved the flirty banter and the normalness of these two. It was so nice to see them just be themselves. Sometimes, things seem too good to be true, but maybe with a little bit of holiday magic, we can have them anyway.

[52kaosangel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Like all of Beatrice Bradshaw's other books in this series, I absolutely loved this one.

It was well written, full of laughs, as well as heart-warming and tear-jerker moments. I loved going back to Scotland and following the story of Trish and Jack, both of whom are fighting their own fears and end up pushing each other away. But I love that that they both see the other person as they truly are and both are able to feel most at ease when they are with each other.
Definitely one of my new favourite authors and I cannot wait for what she writes next!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Sara M · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved loved loved Love in the Scottish Christmas Village! Beatrice Bradshaw started her Escape to Scotland series in the small Highland village of Kilcranach and now we are back – and I couldn’t be happier. Both Jack and Trish – our two main characters this time around - have a lot of baggage but they also have so much chemistry that everyone can see that their ‘friends-without-benefits’ arrangement is doomed from the start. What follows is a fun and festive holiday read with sizzling and steamy moments blended in with some Scottish magic – pure perfection, if you ask me!

[Camilla Hansen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Quite a good Christmas book which totally got me in the mood to move to Scotland, again! (As have all the Escape to Scotland books done for me – ha-ha). Quick and good read. I liked the plot, and it drew me in quite quickly. Who doesn’t love a hot Scottish man – who’s also a great dad?! The candy cane scene was a bit weird (even for me), but the rest of the spicy scenes – loved! It’s a spicy book full of holiday magic in perfect time for a Christmas-read!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Sherry · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed Jack and Trish's story, they weren't looking for anything but a good time but what they got was so much more. Trish appreciated life in a small town compared to the big city, the people were so much more friendly and honest. Jack finally grows up, Trish makes him want to be more, even though he is perfect in her eyes. I liked all the emotion in this very entertaining Christmas story.

[Fleur]

I enjoyed the push/pull between Trish and Jack especially as you know they are both perfect for each other and just need to listen to their hearts instead of their silly brains lol especially when the spice these two have together is off the charts. This is the perfect fun festive read with the perfect mix of spice ;)

[Suze82 · Rating 4 out of 5]

what else can I ask for?
Scotland, Christmas, second chances, a single dad - when the time and place is right, who has a chance to fight love? Thank you Beatrice for another entertaining read, Trish and Jack and their shenanigans made my day.

[Amber Lighty · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m so happy I read this book, it was the perfect cozy yet spicy book for the holiday season! Beautiful writing and had all the great rom-com features I love: single dad, family drama, second chance meeting and was heartwarming to the very last page!

[Dulce Perez · Rating 5 out of 5]

Trish finds herself in a situation where she has to see her one time hook up almost daily ! A sexy postie goes viral these two have a lot of maturing to do in this spicy book

[Donna McEachran · Rating 5 out of 5]

Last book in the series...and what a cracker! Love Jack and Trish and the drama of them being together. The self doubts and questions of worthiness are really sad...but, jeez, they are hot together!

[Ashley Treder · Rating 2 out of 5]

Not my vibe. Story kind of jumped around awkwardly and I’m not into a “single dad” with three kids kind of story. Wouldn’t recommend.