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The Whisky Widow
From the bestselling award-winning author of The Good Wife of Bath comes this rollicking historical adventure that celebrates the art of whisky distilling, the defiant spirit of the Scottish Highlanders and a woman's fearless quest.
1780 Scottish Highlands
In every glass of whisky lies a small act of rebellion...
When Greer MacAlister's despised husband dies, she and her young daughter Fen find themselves in a remote whisky smuggling community in the heart of the Highlands. Here, illicit whisky making is a means of survival in a Scotland under occupation by the British, decades after the disastrous Battle of Culloden. The villagers are suspicious of the widow, but when Greer tricks excise officers away from their illegal stills with a courageous and daring act, they warm to her.
But the excise men are out for revenge, smuggling is a dangerous business, and whisky - a drink that has long ignited passions, songs, stories and danger - is at the rebellious heart of it all. Greer and Fen have no choice but to fight for the life they want.
This rollicking story of bravery, adventure, love and murder brings alive the Scottish Highlands of long ago. It is a poem to the art of whisky distilling and a world now lost to us, as well as a eulogy for those who were forced to leave it.
1780 Scottish Highlands
In every glass of whisky lies a small act of rebellion...
When Greer MacAlister's despised husband dies, she and her young daughter Fen find themselves in a remote whisky smuggling community in the heart of the Highlands. Here, illicit whisky making is a means of survival in a Scotland under occupation by the British, decades after the disastrous Battle of Culloden. The villagers are suspicious of the widow, but when Greer tricks excise officers away from their illegal stills with a courageous and daring act, they warm to her.
But the excise men are out for revenge, smuggling is a dangerous business, and whisky - a drink that has long ignited passions, songs, stories and danger - is at the rebellious heart of it all. Greer and Fen have no choice but to fight for the life they want.
This rollicking story of bravery, adventure, love and murder brings alive the Scottish Highlands of long ago. It is a poem to the art of whisky distilling and a world now lost to us, as well as a eulogy for those who were forced to leave it.
529 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 2, 2025
55 people are currently reading
893 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 91 reviews
June 5, 2025
1780, Scotland. After her nasty husband dies Greer MacAlister becomes Tam Gordon’s housekeeper and she and her deaf daughter Fen leave Edinburgh and move to his remote Highland village. Greer tries her best to fit in and make friends but they don’t like outsiders or people with an impairment like Fen, and the crofters all speak Gaelic and not English.
Here illegal whisky is made, stills are hidden everywhere and it’s smuggled out, sold and it’s very dangerous. Whisky is an everyday drink, it practically runs through Highlanders veins and they refer to it as “water of life.” The residents of Glasglen worry a newcomer like Greer could dob them into the British who occupy and patrol the area and their livelihood and stills being destroyed and menfolk locked up.
Greer and Fen have to find a way to be part of the community, to be seen as not the enemy, and are on their side. Greer’s a woman who lived in a man’s world, she certainly looked outside of the box for solutions to hers and the villager’s problems and misfortunes.
I received a copy of The Whisky Widow from NetGalley and Harlequin Australia in exchange for an honest review. Karen Brooks portrays what it was like to live in the Scottish Highlands at the time, the lairds and the British made a hard life harder. I could tell Ms Brooks knows Scotland well and did extensive research for latest historical fiction novel and it holds a special place in her heart.
An action and adventure narrative full of interesting and hilarious characters, about whisky distilling and how important it was, courage and bravery, conflict and betrayal, family and community, defiance and survival, not giving up and overcoming obstacles. Tam Gordon's my new hero and move over William Wallace!
I savoured every page of The Whisky Widow, my Mam is Sottish and I loved reading about her homeland and my heritage and how the Scots thought it was their god given right to make, drink and sell whisky and it was.
Karen Brooks latest book is a credit to her in so many ways, five stars from me and I highly recommend.
Here illegal whisky is made, stills are hidden everywhere and it’s smuggled out, sold and it’s very dangerous. Whisky is an everyday drink, it practically runs through Highlanders veins and they refer to it as “water of life.” The residents of Glasglen worry a newcomer like Greer could dob them into the British who occupy and patrol the area and their livelihood and stills being destroyed and menfolk locked up.
Greer and Fen have to find a way to be part of the community, to be seen as not the enemy, and are on their side. Greer’s a woman who lived in a man’s world, she certainly looked outside of the box for solutions to hers and the villager’s problems and misfortunes.
I received a copy of The Whisky Widow from NetGalley and Harlequin Australia in exchange for an honest review. Karen Brooks portrays what it was like to live in the Scottish Highlands at the time, the lairds and the British made a hard life harder. I could tell Ms Brooks knows Scotland well and did extensive research for latest historical fiction novel and it holds a special place in her heart.
An action and adventure narrative full of interesting and hilarious characters, about whisky distilling and how important it was, courage and bravery, conflict and betrayal, family and community, defiance and survival, not giving up and overcoming obstacles. Tam Gordon's my new hero and move over William Wallace!
I savoured every page of The Whisky Widow, my Mam is Sottish and I loved reading about her homeland and my heritage and how the Scots thought it was their god given right to make, drink and sell whisky and it was.
Karen Brooks latest book is a credit to her in so many ways, five stars from me and I highly recommend.
July 5, 2025
Set in the 1780's in the Scottish Highlands where we meet Greer MacAlister and her deaf daughter, Fen. Greer's husband has died and, believing there is outstanding pay for her to collect, they travel north and end up in a small village where the law is ignored when it comes to the distilling of whisky. Times were very hard especially for a widow with no income but she is lucky enough to meet Tam Gordon, a whisky smuggler, and become his housekeeper.
The story is good and there are some very tense moments. The characters are appealing especially Fen who has her own individual hardships to overcome. There is a great deal of factual history included which is all interesting. I enjoyed the book but felt it was a little too long drawn out at over 500 pages.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
The story is good and there are some very tense moments. The characters are appealing especially Fen who has her own individual hardships to overcome. There is a great deal of factual history included which is all interesting. I enjoyed the book but felt it was a little too long drawn out at over 500 pages.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
July 6, 2025
A great romp through the 18th century Scottish highlands, with an awesome protagonist, a whiff of smooth spirit and a sprinkle of romance. I loved it!
It's the early 1780s and Mrs Greer Reed takes her deaf daughter Fen, and leaves Edinburgh under a cloud. The pair travels to the highland town of Montrose in the hope of collecting some money owed to them. It should be straightforward, but an entirely unexpected obstacle sees them stranded in a hostile town without the means to leave. Greer takes the chance of throwing herself on the mercy of a gentleman acquaintance who had shown her some kindness, and before she knows it, she and Fen are travelling to the tiny village of Glasglen to take on the role of housekeeper to Mr Tamhas Gordon - whisky smuggler. She's promised him a year, but if her unfriendly reception at Glasglen is anything to go by, it's going to be a very long 12 months.
Once again Karen Brooks has written a totally immersive historical fiction, this time set in the milieu of illicit quasi-domestic whisky distilling. It has some unexpected twists and turns along with many memorable characters. I particularly enjoyed the focus on 'fingertalking', an early iteration of sign language, that is key to the plot. Brooks is fast becoming a safe bet author for me, and I'm happy to recommend this book.
With thanks to NetGalley and Harlequin Australia for an eARC to read and review.
It's the early 1780s and Mrs Greer Reed takes her deaf daughter Fen, and leaves Edinburgh under a cloud. The pair travels to the highland town of Montrose in the hope of collecting some money owed to them. It should be straightforward, but an entirely unexpected obstacle sees them stranded in a hostile town without the means to leave. Greer takes the chance of throwing herself on the mercy of a gentleman acquaintance who had shown her some kindness, and before she knows it, she and Fen are travelling to the tiny village of Glasglen to take on the role of housekeeper to Mr Tamhas Gordon - whisky smuggler. She's promised him a year, but if her unfriendly reception at Glasglen is anything to go by, it's going to be a very long 12 months.
Once again Karen Brooks has written a totally immersive historical fiction, this time set in the milieu of illicit quasi-domestic whisky distilling. It has some unexpected twists and turns along with many memorable characters. I particularly enjoyed the focus on 'fingertalking', an early iteration of sign language, that is key to the plot. Brooks is fast becoming a safe bet author for me, and I'm happy to recommend this book.
With thanks to NetGalley and Harlequin Australia for an eARC to read and review.
November 21, 2025
Whisky, whiskey and bourbon? Do you know the difference?
Whisky - Scotland
Whiskey - Ireland and America
Bourbon - whiskey made from corn
We meet Greer MacAllister. (Greer, is my maiden name :) A widow, looking to make her way on her own with her young daughter, Fen, they find themselves in a rugged part of rural Scotland. Smuggling is the game, in order to provide for their families.
The story was very well done. A great historical fiction book about the Scottish culture and the art of making whisky. Women played such an important role in the past. Women were the homemakers but also aided in the of making and brewing whisky and ultimately, the trade of it- where it be legally or illegally. This was a very authentic Scottish read. The words, the Gaelic, the history. My mum's Scottish hometown was mentioned, as was my dads. My birth place of Auld Reekie (Edinburgh) also had some honorable mentions.
Their is a glossary in the back of the book which will help with some of the dialogue. The author also included some notes which were so interesting on why she wrote this book. The truth to some of the characters at play and the history within the book was described in vivid detail.
I read, The Lady Brewer of London, two years ago. I loved this read also. KB books are not short but I say, pour yourself a wee dram and toast SLAINTE. And then continue to read for many hours.
Whisky - Scotland
Whiskey - Ireland and America
Bourbon - whiskey made from corn
We meet Greer MacAllister. (Greer, is my maiden name :) A widow, looking to make her way on her own with her young daughter, Fen, they find themselves in a rugged part of rural Scotland. Smuggling is the game, in order to provide for their families.
The story was very well done. A great historical fiction book about the Scottish culture and the art of making whisky. Women played such an important role in the past. Women were the homemakers but also aided in the of making and brewing whisky and ultimately, the trade of it- where it be legally or illegally. This was a very authentic Scottish read. The words, the Gaelic, the history. My mum's Scottish hometown was mentioned, as was my dads. My birth place of Auld Reekie (Edinburgh) also had some honorable mentions.
Their is a glossary in the back of the book which will help with some of the dialogue. The author also included some notes which were so interesting on why she wrote this book. The truth to some of the characters at play and the history within the book was described in vivid detail.
I read, The Lady Brewer of London, two years ago. I loved this read also. KB books are not short but I say, pour yourself a wee dram and toast SLAINTE. And then continue to read for many hours.
July 24, 2025
I enjoyed being transported to 1780 Scottish Highlands! I didn’t know about the (illegal) whiskey distilling the Highland Clans depended on to pay the high taxes and to barter with, in order for villages to meagerly survive. This story has courageous women who are deeply loving and loyal to their family and to the people in their village, through the harshest experiences. The male characters are just what I expect from strong Scottish clans men, they are fiercely loyal and would fight to their death to protect those they love.
I don’t usually care for audio books but since I’m knitting a blanket and can’t read at the same time I gave this a try. (Plus, the book is not available in US yet.) I’m so happy I did! The story was historical fiction at its best and the descriptive prose so vivid. I am picky about narrators voices. This narrator, Annabelle Tudor had the loveliest lilt to her Scottish accent. Beautifully executed.
I don’t usually care for audio books but since I’m knitting a blanket and can’t read at the same time I gave this a try. (Plus, the book is not available in US yet.) I’m so happy I did! The story was historical fiction at its best and the descriptive prose so vivid. I am picky about narrators voices. This narrator, Annabelle Tudor had the loveliest lilt to her Scottish accent. Beautifully executed.
August 19, 2025
Big thanks to Harlequin for sending us a copy to read and review.
Meal do naidheachd Karen you have fooking done it again with this detailed and brilliant story.
Only a talent and powerful story teller can bring history alive and transport a reader to a foreign land so seamlessly and realistically.
The sounds, smells, hardship and tenacity of the highland folk tickled the senses as we were whisked away to the Highlands of Scotland.
Greer MacAlistair and her deaf bairn, Fen find themselves in Glasglen.
A village in the Scottish Highlands where strangers are treated suspiciously.
Misfortune and trickery surround her husband’s untimely death.
Proving her loyalty and her cleverness with the demanding Excise collectors she slowly becomes one of the fold.
The intrigue of finger talking with her daughter invited a new skill to the village and one that helped them out of a few times under duress.
A broken barrier that allowed Fen feel included and valued.
An illegal whisky trade, murder, brazen plans and a twist are aligned with the power of love, acceptance and sheer grit.
A stunning cover is just the start in an epic story that will entertain and allow you to be part of the story.
Every detail is woven into this amazing tale and the Scottish brogue is loud and clear.
The endurance of life and the beauty of love shine through the harsh and brutal weather they thrived in.
Meal do naidheachd Karen you have fooking done it again with this detailed and brilliant story.
Only a talent and powerful story teller can bring history alive and transport a reader to a foreign land so seamlessly and realistically.
The sounds, smells, hardship and tenacity of the highland folk tickled the senses as we were whisked away to the Highlands of Scotland.
Greer MacAlistair and her deaf bairn, Fen find themselves in Glasglen.
A village in the Scottish Highlands where strangers are treated suspiciously.
Misfortune and trickery surround her husband’s untimely death.
Proving her loyalty and her cleverness with the demanding Excise collectors she slowly becomes one of the fold.
The intrigue of finger talking with her daughter invited a new skill to the village and one that helped them out of a few times under duress.
A broken barrier that allowed Fen feel included and valued.
An illegal whisky trade, murder, brazen plans and a twist are aligned with the power of love, acceptance and sheer grit.
A stunning cover is just the start in an epic story that will entertain and allow you to be part of the story.
Every detail is woven into this amazing tale and the Scottish brogue is loud and clear.
The endurance of life and the beauty of love shine through the harsh and brutal weather they thrived in.
September 10, 2025
I thoroughly enjoyed this atmospheric historical fiction tale, set in the Scottish Highlands in 1780.
I was immersed in the story and really enjoyed the adventure, the bravery of Greer, Fen and many of the Scottish Highlanders, the details of the illicit whisky making, as well as the authentic language and pronunciation - nae, ye've, och, aye, yer, naught - as it really added to the story.
‘Women have always been a part of whiskey history, they just never received the credit.’
I loved the author's note and am looking forward to reading more from Tasmanian author Karen Brooks, including her back catalogue
This was another memorable buddy read with the lovely @the.travellingbibliophile.
I was immersed in the story and really enjoyed the adventure, the bravery of Greer, Fen and many of the Scottish Highlanders, the details of the illicit whisky making, as well as the authentic language and pronunciation - nae, ye've, och, aye, yer, naught - as it really added to the story.
‘Women have always been a part of whiskey history, they just never received the credit.’
I loved the author's note and am looking forward to reading more from Tasmanian author Karen Brooks, including her back catalogue
This was another memorable buddy read with the lovely @the.travellingbibliophile.
June 5, 2025
Nobody but Karen Brooks could write such a riveting and rollicking historical masterpiece like The Whiskey Widow! Brimming with detail, suspense, surprise, drama, emotion and intrigue, my head was spinning from all the clever twists and turns and unexpected plot directions. I never saw many of them coming! I was on the edge of my seat flipping the pages as fast as I could into the wee hours of the night. This complex tale certainly fired my imagination from start to finish. I was completely invested at all levels and my heart raced more than once! Other times I shed tears in the sad and tragic moments. It was easy to get invested in the well-developed characters’ lives. I felt their pain, loss, heartbreak and disappointment. And sympathised in their struggles against injustice. But also cheered at their special victories.
Set in 1780, The Whisky Widow, covers a tumultuous period of Scottish history. Whiskey and the Scots go hand in hand. There are lots of emotional connections and associations, too. It was a risky and dangerous venture to be making, smuggling and trading this fiery liquid. The Scots often fought hard for freedom to do what they loved and to choose their own livelihood. Conditions were poor and everyone struggled. But the excise officers often proved vengeful and murder and framing of the innocent were common occurrences. Sometimes these acts were fuelled by jealousy and greed and a means to cut the competition.
The dislike of the Highlanders by the English comes through loudly but also there were battles within the close knit community. Distrust of those coming into their circle, was common. When Greer moves into Glasglen with her daughter, she finds out quickly the locals don’t trust her. It seems for a while no matter what she does to contribute to the community, many members will not change their minds. Or not until something horrible happens and she is put in an unexpected position. Even then it is an uphill battle but once her strengths take centre stage and she fires up with gusto, they begin to take notice. Her journey to gaining respect may have been a challenging one, but she eventually achieves success. Some like Tam, (a character I adored and is proven to be her equal) admire her for her skills and determination and ability to overcome the odds.
There are numerous cultural references in The Whisky Widow that stood out to me. One is the co-existence of Christian and ancient customs and how that played out in the Highlanders’ lives. A second are the mentioned conflicts that existed among the Scots. Plus the surprising prejudice and distrust between the Highlanders and Lowlanders. These points are seen in The Whisky Widow in substantial measures. I also marvelled at Karen’s expert use of the local language giving the dialogue authenticity. And the detailed descriptions of the Scottish surrounds are so explicit they provide a true immersive experience. I was fully transported to the historical setting that placed me in the heart of the action making me feel part of the scenes.
In the end, this is a story about courage, a resilient smart woman leading those she loves to victory. She fights through the betrayal, brings together the uncooperative, gets out of some tight corners through clever thinking and persuasive speech, knows how to manipulate the manipulators and transforms those around her. Greer is a bold woman to be admired and her strength shines like a beacon. Motivated by her honest passion for beloved Tam and her daughter, Fen, and care for her community—she ploughs ahead like a steamroller. Although many locals initially did not want to know her, she proves her worth and turns opinions around. An absolute stunning novel that should not be missed. Full of history, mystery and mayhem! 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thanks to HQ Fiction and Netgalley for the ARC.
Set in 1780, The Whisky Widow, covers a tumultuous period of Scottish history. Whiskey and the Scots go hand in hand. There are lots of emotional connections and associations, too. It was a risky and dangerous venture to be making, smuggling and trading this fiery liquid. The Scots often fought hard for freedom to do what they loved and to choose their own livelihood. Conditions were poor and everyone struggled. But the excise officers often proved vengeful and murder and framing of the innocent were common occurrences. Sometimes these acts were fuelled by jealousy and greed and a means to cut the competition.
The dislike of the Highlanders by the English comes through loudly but also there were battles within the close knit community. Distrust of those coming into their circle, was common. When Greer moves into Glasglen with her daughter, she finds out quickly the locals don’t trust her. It seems for a while no matter what she does to contribute to the community, many members will not change their minds. Or not until something horrible happens and she is put in an unexpected position. Even then it is an uphill battle but once her strengths take centre stage and she fires up with gusto, they begin to take notice. Her journey to gaining respect may have been a challenging one, but she eventually achieves success. Some like Tam, (a character I adored and is proven to be her equal) admire her for her skills and determination and ability to overcome the odds.
There are numerous cultural references in The Whisky Widow that stood out to me. One is the co-existence of Christian and ancient customs and how that played out in the Highlanders’ lives. A second are the mentioned conflicts that existed among the Scots. Plus the surprising prejudice and distrust between the Highlanders and Lowlanders. These points are seen in The Whisky Widow in substantial measures. I also marvelled at Karen’s expert use of the local language giving the dialogue authenticity. And the detailed descriptions of the Scottish surrounds are so explicit they provide a true immersive experience. I was fully transported to the historical setting that placed me in the heart of the action making me feel part of the scenes.
In the end, this is a story about courage, a resilient smart woman leading those she loves to victory. She fights through the betrayal, brings together the uncooperative, gets out of some tight corners through clever thinking and persuasive speech, knows how to manipulate the manipulators and transforms those around her. Greer is a bold woman to be admired and her strength shines like a beacon. Motivated by her honest passion for beloved Tam and her daughter, Fen, and care for her community—she ploughs ahead like a steamroller. Although many locals initially did not want to know her, she proves her worth and turns opinions around. An absolute stunning novel that should not be missed. Full of history, mystery and mayhem! 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thanks to HQ Fiction and Netgalley for the ARC.
December 15, 2025
Scotland, 1780. Greer MacAlister receives word that her husband, an excise man, has died. She and her daughter Fenella (Fen) travel from Edinburgh to Montrose to collect money owed to him. But the money is gone, and Greer and Fen are treated as outcasts. Desperate, Greer offers to work as housekeeper for Tam Gordon in the remote village he calls home. Illicit whisky making provides the means of survival for this small community, still feeling the effects of the Jacobite defeat at Culloden in 1746. The victorious, red-coated British patrol the area and make a difficult life more challenging. Initially viewed with suspicion, as lowland incomers, Greer and Fen become important members of the community.
Part adventure, part romance, part tribute to a past now long gone, this is the story of courage, the challenges of family, and of justice. I am drawn into this story, with its smattering of Gaelic, with its mix of superstitious and supernatural beliefs and reminders of increasing hardship, resulting in an exodus from the highlands.
Yes, I loved this story. It took me back into a lifestyle and history some of my ancestors were part of, before leaving Scotland in the mid-19th century. Ms Brooks brings people and place to life.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
Part adventure, part romance, part tribute to a past now long gone, this is the story of courage, the challenges of family, and of justice. I am drawn into this story, with its smattering of Gaelic, with its mix of superstitious and supernatural beliefs and reminders of increasing hardship, resulting in an exodus from the highlands.
Yes, I loved this story. It took me back into a lifestyle and history some of my ancestors were part of, before leaving Scotland in the mid-19th century. Ms Brooks brings people and place to life.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
September 2, 2025
The Whisky Widow by Karen Brooks is set in the Scottish Highlands of the 1780's. It will keep you reading 📚 up into the wee small hours of a dark winter night 🌙 or until the early hours of a spring morning when the 'light' befalls on the pages of your book 📖 and the 'frost' has melted from your window 🪟.
In every glass of whisky is an act of rebellion and you'll certainly hear all about it in this book 📖 and so much more.
At the start of every chapter is a beautifully illustrated whisky barrel significant to the story.
It's a hell of a read! 📚 Enormous, to be precise.
I recommend reading it in sections and the parts said in the book 📖 as this way you'll evaporate and digest the full story of The Whisky Widow to your heart's content.
It took me almost a whole week to read it ~ so give yourself plenty of time ⏲️.
You'll learn all about whisky and the significance of the barrels and storage and a few of the Scottish Highland traditions.
Home 🏡 is where heart ❤️ is... in The Whisky Widow by Karen Brooks.
In every glass of whisky is an act of rebellion and you'll certainly hear all about it in this book 📖 and so much more.
At the start of every chapter is a beautifully illustrated whisky barrel significant to the story.
It's a hell of a read! 📚 Enormous, to be precise.
I recommend reading it in sections and the parts said in the book 📖 as this way you'll evaporate and digest the full story of The Whisky Widow to your heart's content.
It took me almost a whole week to read it ~ so give yourself plenty of time ⏲️.
You'll learn all about whisky and the significance of the barrels and storage and a few of the Scottish Highland traditions.
Home 🏡 is where heart ❤️ is... in The Whisky Widow by Karen Brooks.
October 31, 2025
A solid 4 I think, very interesting story about the history of whiskey distillery in the highlands of Scotland. An interesting side story about early form of sign language.
July 27, 2025
The Whisky Widow is a wonderful historical fiction set in 1780s Scotland. Greer MacAlister and her young daughter Fen leave Edinburgh and find themselves alone and almost penniless, in the port town of Montrose. After an uncomfortable encounter with the locals Greer and her deaf daughter accept the help of Tam Gordon, a mysterious gentleman. Greer and Fen travel to the isolated village of Glasglen where Greer becomes Tam’s housekeeper however, the local Highlanders are suspicious of any incomers, due to their involvement in the illegal whisky trade. Greer’s life becomes complicated, and danger lurks as she becomes involved with whisky smugglers, the unforgiving British Red Coats, strange local traditions, and the harsh environment of the Scottish Highlands. This is another thoroughly researched novel by Karen Brooks, and I highly recommend it. Thank you to Good Reading magazine for my proof copy.
May 11, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️¾ (4.75/5) eARC provided by Netgalley
Karen Brooks continues to cement her place as one of my favorite historical fiction authors with The Whiskey Widow. Her ability to craft compelling, multidimensional female protagonists is on full display here, and once again she delivers a rich, layered story full of heart, resilience, and emotional depth.
While I won’t repeat the blurb, what stood out to me was Greer’s journey through stigma, betrayal, and the challenge of rebuilding a life as an outsider in a tight-knit community. The inclusion of her deaf daughter added a unique and touching element, and I especially appreciated the way Brooks explores not just romance, but also the complexities of friendships and mother-daughter bonds.
The pacing is excellent, and I found the setting and insights into the world of whiskey-making both fascinating and well-researched. There’s humor, heartbreak, and so many emotional twists—it’s the kind of story that stays with you.
I highly recommend The Whiskey Widow to fans of historical fiction. It’s a gripping adventure with a strong emotional core. My only reason for not giving it a full 5 stars is that The Good Wife of Bath still holds the top spot in my heart.
Karen Brooks continues to cement her place as one of my favorite historical fiction authors with The Whiskey Widow. Her ability to craft compelling, multidimensional female protagonists is on full display here, and once again she delivers a rich, layered story full of heart, resilience, and emotional depth.
While I won’t repeat the blurb, what stood out to me was Greer’s journey through stigma, betrayal, and the challenge of rebuilding a life as an outsider in a tight-knit community. The inclusion of her deaf daughter added a unique and touching element, and I especially appreciated the way Brooks explores not just romance, but also the complexities of friendships and mother-daughter bonds.
The pacing is excellent, and I found the setting and insights into the world of whiskey-making both fascinating and well-researched. There’s humor, heartbreak, and so many emotional twists—it’s the kind of story that stays with you.
I highly recommend The Whiskey Widow to fans of historical fiction. It’s a gripping adventure with a strong emotional core. My only reason for not giving it a full 5 stars is that The Good Wife of Bath still holds the top spot in my heart.
August 20, 2025
Why oh why have I not read Karen Brooks before.
I do own a couple of her books so will need to get to them as soon as I can!
I do own a couple of her books so will need to get to them as soon as I can!
July 13, 2025
this was a beautiful book. so deeply loving and joyous and fantastic. as a scot, it was so great to see the culture and love of the scottish highlands at the front of this book. it was such a warm and inviting novel. I love love loved Greer and Tam, as well as Fen. It was such great representation for her in the book, also like WOMEN! How good are they! God this book was a masterpiece!
June 25, 2025
I’m in two minds on this book. It’s a very interesting period of history and the research the author has done really shows with a lot of excellent, visceral detail. It’s very slow to start which is a good thing, allowing it to take time to properly establish the characters and set the scene. When the action really sets in is around page 300 which makes for a crazy mad dash to fit in all the plot before the end. Points off also for the glossary which omits about 75% of the words I tried to look up! Still I was definitely intrigued and interested in spending time with Greer and Fen and I enjoyed the latter half of the book immensely.
October 1, 2025
I was disappointed with this book. There was some lovely imagery and there was some clear references to historical research. The author is clearly enthusiastic about Scottish highland history and culture as an outsider looking in. However, the main character is very much a Mary Sue. There is little to no character development from the first chapter to the last. She refers often to how she changed and developed off screen, before the book starts, but she is not developed or changed by the events of the book. Greer magically knows more about birthing than an experienced traditional midwife - who likely apprenticed for a years before becoming a solo practitioner - because she attended 3 births on the lowlands. In reality, birthing stools were in use in the Highlands yet this is an unknown concept in the book and Greer saves the day. A quick Google and a bit of respect for traditional midwives would go a long way. Greer teaches sign and can somehow get a group of people proficient in it (enough so they can communicate complex concepts in extremely poorly lit jail cells without guards noticing?) yet fails to gain even rudimentary fluency in Gaelic in the same amount of time. The people around her conveniently speak English even when not speaking to her or when under extreme duress (ie birthing, escaping, stabbing and being stabbed) in spite of Gaelic being their mother tongue and the dominant language in the community. I get that writing for an English speaking audience makes this hard but there are conventions (such as printing Gaelic spoken bits in English but in italics to indicate the character speaks Gaelic) that make this challenge surmountable. Greer breaks social norms in a closed community on the regular and makes few accommodations or adaptations to what is essentially a foreign culture yet all those who resist this or question her are either won over relatively quickly and easily or are depicted as backward and ignorant. Greer is the “saviour” and the foreign culture she is saving is either fetishised as mysterious and alluring, depicted as quaint and “superstitious” or is shown as backwards and ignorant. There was an unintentional lack of respect shown to historical Highlanders that was deeply disappointing. Greer ends up being a one dimensional character with unlikely resolutions to problems (why on earth didn’t her “dead” husband just destroy the papers she handed over? Why didn’t anyone go to The Folly and arrest Tam again after the escape? Why did no editor ask these questions??). If you want an adventure story and are able to suspend disbelief as well as being ok with colonised depictions of Highland culture this is a fine enough book. Unfortunately, it didn’t hit the mark for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 8, 2025
I do enjoy a historical setting, and a story that sweeps you along with intrigue and well rounded characters. Thanks to publisher for ARC.
June 23, 2025
Received an uncorrected pre release through Good Reading magazine. Thanks to Harper Collins … review coming soon.
September 13, 2025
What a fabulous story! I loved the Scottish setting and turn of phrase in the 1700s. The mix of history, whisky lore and adventure kept the pages turning. A strong 4.5 stars.
September 26, 2025
A great listen, good to hear the Scottish accent to get the feel of the story.
I’ll b looking for more of Karen’s books
I’ll b looking for more of Karen’s books
August 7, 2025
I loved being immersed in the Scottish Highlands! Like any good period drama, I also learned a lot about what life would be like living in such times, so physically demanding and at the whim of authorities.
July 20, 2025
The Whisky Widow - Karen Brooks
From the lovely hand drawn map at the beginning to the very last page, this book had me enthralled.
It is a meticulously researched depiction of what it would have been like to live in the Scottish Highlands during the 1780s. The importance of whisky to the Highlanders, not just to drink, but to use to trade and bribe was very interesting. Also the detail in which they distilled it to make the perfect spirit. It also explores the rivalry between the Highlanders, Lowlanders and Sassenach.
It is a story of rich characters. Greer is an admirable woman and I loved the relationship she had with her daughter Fen who is deaf. She is fiercely protective of her refusing to allow her disability to define her or hold her back. On the contrary, the use of sign language and willingness of the others to be taught, not only allowed Fen to be enveloped by the community but also added another armour to the villages artillery. Tam takes Greer by surprise, with his gentlemanly and non conformist ways.
This is a wonderfully romantic adventure written with heart.
I also enjoyed the use of the Gaelic language and appreciated the glossary at the back of the book.
4.8⭐️'s
From the lovely hand drawn map at the beginning to the very last page, this book had me enthralled.
It is a meticulously researched depiction of what it would have been like to live in the Scottish Highlands during the 1780s. The importance of whisky to the Highlanders, not just to drink, but to use to trade and bribe was very interesting. Also the detail in which they distilled it to make the perfect spirit. It also explores the rivalry between the Highlanders, Lowlanders and Sassenach.
It is a story of rich characters. Greer is an admirable woman and I loved the relationship she had with her daughter Fen who is deaf. She is fiercely protective of her refusing to allow her disability to define her or hold her back. On the contrary, the use of sign language and willingness of the others to be taught, not only allowed Fen to be enveloped by the community but also added another armour to the villages artillery. Tam takes Greer by surprise, with his gentlemanly and non conformist ways.
This is a wonderfully romantic adventure written with heart.
I also enjoyed the use of the Gaelic language and appreciated the glossary at the back of the book.
4.8⭐️'s
September 2, 2025
Audiobook. Gave it a try - nup - not for me
August 4, 2025
What a fabulous read…thoroughly enjoyed!!
If you loved The Last Hours & The Turn of Midnight by Minette Walters and the Outlander series by Dianna Gabaldon, then you will especially love The Whiskey Widow.
This book gives you all the emotions, which in my opinion is a huge part of what makes a 5 star book. Intrigue, joy, laughter, anger, passion, terror and more.
It’s set in 1780 in the highlands of Scotland. It follows the story of Greer and her bodhar (deaf) daughter Fen, from the Scottish lowlands to the unexpected and inhospitable Glasglen in the highlands.
Illicit whiskey making, smuggling, red coats, heartache, romance, history and lots of drama, are excellently weaved into this novel. Fabulously written characters, the good, bad and the horrid.
There’s plenty of Gaelic used throughout which just adds to the charm of the story. The words seemed quite logical and easy to interpret, but for those who stumble, there’s a glossary at the end of the book.
This is the second Karen Brooks novel I’ve read and thoroughly enjoyed, so I will definitely be reading everything else this author has to offer.
A fascinating and gripping book (with no monotonous boring bits), that draws you in from the first page and never lets you go till it’s finished.
Metaphorically speaking, in the words of the Kerrigans “this is going straight to the pool room!” (IYKYK)
ARC in exchange for an honest review.
If you loved The Last Hours & The Turn of Midnight by Minette Walters and the Outlander series by Dianna Gabaldon, then you will especially love The Whiskey Widow.
This book gives you all the emotions, which in my opinion is a huge part of what makes a 5 star book. Intrigue, joy, laughter, anger, passion, terror and more.
It’s set in 1780 in the highlands of Scotland. It follows the story of Greer and her bodhar (deaf) daughter Fen, from the Scottish lowlands to the unexpected and inhospitable Glasglen in the highlands.
Illicit whiskey making, smuggling, red coats, heartache, romance, history and lots of drama, are excellently weaved into this novel. Fabulously written characters, the good, bad and the horrid.
There’s plenty of Gaelic used throughout which just adds to the charm of the story. The words seemed quite logical and easy to interpret, but for those who stumble, there’s a glossary at the end of the book.
This is the second Karen Brooks novel I’ve read and thoroughly enjoyed, so I will definitely be reading everything else this author has to offer.
A fascinating and gripping book (with no monotonous boring bits), that draws you in from the first page and never lets you go till it’s finished.
Metaphorically speaking, in the words of the Kerrigans “this is going straight to the pool room!” (IYKYK)
ARC in exchange for an honest review.
September 15, 2025
“The Whisky Widow” is a brilliant historical read that takes you to the beautiful Scottish Highlands after the Battle of Culloden. It’s a beautiful story about forging your own path and finding strength in the unknown. I felt especially connected to it because of Fen, the Deaf daughter, and the way sign language was naturally woven into the story. There’s even a brief mention of Thomas Braidwood’s school, which was a nice touch. If you enjoy stories that include Deaf characters and sign language, definitely add this one to your TBR pile!
April 7, 2025
Two of my favourite things in one book - whisky and Scotland!!!
What a braw read! I felt so much history in this tale and can’t wait to share it with my customers
Thanks Harper HQ for my advanced readers copy
What a braw read! I felt so much history in this tale and can’t wait to share it with my customers
Thanks Harper HQ for my advanced readers copy
July 2, 2025
The Whisky Widow is a detailed historical fiction story set in the 1780s village life in the Scottish Highlands, where the conflicts with British excise officers, lairds and the lowlanders added to the trials and tribulations of a harsh lifestyle. Karen Brooks presents Greer McAlister, a woman with tenacity and grit, trying to find life for herself and her deaf daughter Fen, in a place where her deceased husband had forgotten all about her. This is just as much about her new life in the highlands as it was about highland village life in the 1780s where survival for anyone is not without danger from people let alone the elements.
Greer’s strength as a woman during this time period was unusual: she had to overcome adversity in a community where she was ostracised from the start, and then had to prove herself time and time again for any semblance of acceptance. Greer had to come to terms with surviving alone as a widower with a daughter, and whether she would be worthy of a relationship or love again. Her relationship with Tam Gordon was proof that there was room for love.
Her role as a teacher to many was also quite interesting, knowing that it was also at a time where the British were trying to suppress Scottish Highlanders from speaking Gaelic wearing kilts and doing away with all of their cultural connections. Rebellion was a central theme for the highlander as it was for Greer: she would find anything that stood in her way, including getting her daughter into a local school, and being able to corral the menu workers who were rebuilding Tam Gordon’s home to work with her instead of against her. She became the ’smuggler’s wife who made a pact with the devil – the exciseman who … would see her husband handed for murder.”
The pacing moves slower in the first third than in the rest of the book, and once it gains momentum, it becomes a beguiling escapade full of wry wit, perils and twists in one of the hardest landscapes in the late 1700s.
Thanks #betterreadingau for the #gifted copy.
Greer’s strength as a woman during this time period was unusual: she had to overcome adversity in a community where she was ostracised from the start, and then had to prove herself time and time again for any semblance of acceptance. Greer had to come to terms with surviving alone as a widower with a daughter, and whether she would be worthy of a relationship or love again. Her relationship with Tam Gordon was proof that there was room for love.
Her role as a teacher to many was also quite interesting, knowing that it was also at a time where the British were trying to suppress Scottish Highlanders from speaking Gaelic wearing kilts and doing away with all of their cultural connections. Rebellion was a central theme for the highlander as it was for Greer: she would find anything that stood in her way, including getting her daughter into a local school, and being able to corral the menu workers who were rebuilding Tam Gordon’s home to work with her instead of against her. She became the ’smuggler’s wife who made a pact with the devil – the exciseman who … would see her husband handed for murder.”
The pacing moves slower in the first third than in the rest of the book, and once it gains momentum, it becomes a beguiling escapade full of wry wit, perils and twists in one of the hardest landscapes in the late 1700s.
Thanks #betterreadingau for the #gifted copy.
June 4, 2025
Set in Scotland between 1780 and 1784, The Whisky Widow by Karen Brooks is the story about Greer MacAlister and her daughter Fen as they strive to find a home in a new community. When Greer's husband died she received a message that, as his widow, she should go to Montrose and collect money owing to him. Once there, however, she discovered that the money had gone and she was left to defend for herself and her daughter. Meeting Tam Gorden provided the chance for a new life living in a small village in the Scottish Highlands.
Greer soon encountered the prejudices that existed in the village regarding outsiders, especially Lowlanders, and that becoming accepted would not be an easy task. She also discovered that although there was some farming and fishing, the villagers mainly made their living from distilling and smuggling whisky. Although they were allowed to keep a small amount of whisky for their own consumption, a high excise was applied to the sale of whisky, hence the need for the smuggling operations.
Disaster strikes when some of the men, including Tam, are arrested and it is up to Greer to manage the community and to devise a rescue plan, especially as Tam has been accused of murder. The village community strives to prove his innocence.
This is a story of a community bonding together for its survival when required. Life is hard but basically members of the village look after each other. Although most attend the village church there is still a strong belief in supernatural forces - just in case. This is also a story about relationships, especially between family members. It is also about love and hate and seeking justice.
The Whisky Widow is a work of historical fiction that graphically portrays the difficulties faced by the workers living in small villages in the Highlands. It is a time of change with the Clearances already occurring in some areas. Eventually a decision needs to be made whether to remain in Scotland or try for a new life overseas. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book.
Many thanks to Better Reading and HQ Books for a preview copy of this book.
Greer soon encountered the prejudices that existed in the village regarding outsiders, especially Lowlanders, and that becoming accepted would not be an easy task. She also discovered that although there was some farming and fishing, the villagers mainly made their living from distilling and smuggling whisky. Although they were allowed to keep a small amount of whisky for their own consumption, a high excise was applied to the sale of whisky, hence the need for the smuggling operations.
Disaster strikes when some of the men, including Tam, are arrested and it is up to Greer to manage the community and to devise a rescue plan, especially as Tam has been accused of murder. The village community strives to prove his innocence.
This is a story of a community bonding together for its survival when required. Life is hard but basically members of the village look after each other. Although most attend the village church there is still a strong belief in supernatural forces - just in case. This is also a story about relationships, especially between family members. It is also about love and hate and seeking justice.
The Whisky Widow is a work of historical fiction that graphically portrays the difficulties faced by the workers living in small villages in the Highlands. It is a time of change with the Clearances already occurring in some areas. Eventually a decision needs to be made whether to remain in Scotland or try for a new life overseas. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book.
Many thanks to Better Reading and HQ Books for a preview copy of this book.
August 24, 2025
Set in the Scottish Highlands in the late eighteenth century, Greer, the widow of a Sassenach excise man finds herself throwing in her lot with tacksman, Tam Gordon. As an incomer, she is feared and reviled by most in the village, not least because she has a deaf daughter, Fen, with whom she "finger talks".
Greer is a strong, intelligent woman (my favourite kind of heroine) who finds herself penniless and a long way from home in a town which does not believe she is who she claims to be. With only her wits and a mother's desperation to protect her daughter, she convinces a Highland gentleman to take her on as his housekeeper, figuring short term security is better than immediate poverty and starvation.
There is a lot of Gaelic language and terms used throughout (there is a glossary at the end of the book), which took a little while to get used to, but once I did, this is a well researched book that pulled me along with a tale of daring and adventure, danger and, above all, whisky. Historically, whisky was the life blood of many Highlanders, as well as an integral part of their cultural identity, and reading about the multi-pronged attacks made by the English raised my ire. Whisky production and sale was how many Highlanders managed to eke out a living in a harsh landscape; it was also perceived as their cultural right as Highlanders to manufacture, consume, and sell this "water of life".
Karen Brooks' story reveals how the history of whisky is the story of the Scottish way of life, and how important the womenfolk were to its production and distribution. There are several historically factual, entertaining stories that became part of this book.
Loved it.
Greer is a strong, intelligent woman (my favourite kind of heroine) who finds herself penniless and a long way from home in a town which does not believe she is who she claims to be. With only her wits and a mother's desperation to protect her daughter, she convinces a Highland gentleman to take her on as his housekeeper, figuring short term security is better than immediate poverty and starvation.
There is a lot of Gaelic language and terms used throughout (there is a glossary at the end of the book), which took a little while to get used to, but once I did, this is a well researched book that pulled me along with a tale of daring and adventure, danger and, above all, whisky. Historically, whisky was the life blood of many Highlanders, as well as an integral part of their cultural identity, and reading about the multi-pronged attacks made by the English raised my ire. Whisky production and sale was how many Highlanders managed to eke out a living in a harsh landscape; it was also perceived as their cultural right as Highlanders to manufacture, consume, and sell this "water of life".
Karen Brooks' story reveals how the history of whisky is the story of the Scottish way of life, and how important the womenfolk were to its production and distribution. There are several historically factual, entertaining stories that became part of this book.
Loved it.
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