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The Art of Burning Heather
A daughter’s escape to the Scottish Highlands becomes a mother’s reckoning, a sister’s choice, and a grandmother’s last chance in this witty, bittersweet novel about first loves, old ghosts, and the courage it takes to change.
When floral designer Deli MacDonald’s heart is broken by unrequited love and her best friend’s abandonment, she flees to the Scottish Highlands and her estranged aunt Mo’s cliffside cottage by the sea. There, embraced by a village of eccentric locals and her aunt’s unconditional, unfamiliar love, she finds herself drawn to brooding pub owner Lachlan Scott—whose path once crossed hers twenty years ago on these same heather-strewn hills.
As Deli fights to find her footing in the Highland soil among the wreckage of her life, she wakes family ghosts and accidentally reopens a decades-old rift. And when her mother and grandmother arrive unexpectedly, three generations of women must finally confront the painful patterns of love, lies, and grief that once drove them apart.
Through a tapestry of wildflowers, family secrets, and fierce hearts, Deli must reckon with the truth of how she learned to be loved. But choosing between the familiar ache of her old life and the uncertain promise of a new one means finding the courage to let her family’s legacy, and the world she built, burn away completely.
When floral designer Deli MacDonald’s heart is broken by unrequited love and her best friend’s abandonment, she flees to the Scottish Highlands and her estranged aunt Mo’s cliffside cottage by the sea. There, embraced by a village of eccentric locals and her aunt’s unconditional, unfamiliar love, she finds herself drawn to brooding pub owner Lachlan Scott—whose path once crossed hers twenty years ago on these same heather-strewn hills.
As Deli fights to find her footing in the Highland soil among the wreckage of her life, she wakes family ghosts and accidentally reopens a decades-old rift. And when her mother and grandmother arrive unexpectedly, three generations of women must finally confront the painful patterns of love, lies, and grief that once drove them apart.
Through a tapestry of wildflowers, family secrets, and fierce hearts, Deli must reckon with the truth of how she learned to be loved. But choosing between the familiar ache of her old life and the uncertain promise of a new one means finding the courage to let her family’s legacy, and the world she built, burn away completely.
493 pages, Paperback
First published December 9, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 332 reviews
January 3, 2026
▹TL;DR Review: A thoughtful but uneven debut: strong character realism and family dynamics, more subtle romance and resolution. Best for readers who prefer character-driven stories over romance-forward plots.
▹My ⭐ Rating: ★★★☆☆ (3/5)
▹Format: 📱 eReader / 🎧Audiobook (Dual narration rating: 4/5)
Thank you to NetGalley and Montlake for a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. This book is already available and can be found on Kindle Unlimited.
─────────────────────────
○★○ What to Expect from This Book: ○★○
– About:
– FMC: Delilah “Deli” MacDonald. a floral designer who flees her life in L.A. after unrequited love and friendship betrayal to find healing in Scotland. Witty, resilient, heart-on-sleeve, grappling with family expectations and her own emotional legacy
– MMC: Lachlan Scott. a brooding pub owner in the Scottish Highlands whose path has crossed Deli’s before. Charismatic, quietly complex, a potential second chance at love with layers shaped by time and local life
– Location: Scottish Highlands
– POV: Multiple third-person (at least 5 perspectives)
– Spice: 2-3 semi-open-door spicy scenes (not very descriptive)
– Tropes: fish-out-of-water, starting over, small-town charm, complex family dynamics, self-discovery, dislike to lovers, unrequited crush (FMC and other character)
– Content warning: gaslighting, unrequited crush, controlling family, toxic family, friendship falling apart, identity crisis, unsupportive family (re: sexual preference/relationship)
– Representation: LGBTQ+ character
─────────────────────────
↻ ◁ || ▷ ↺ 1:00 ──ㅇ────── 4:12
Now Playing: Flowers by Miley Cyrus
─────────────────────────
★○ If You Like the Following, You Might Like This Book ○★
➼ Stories set in the British Isles, specifically Scotland
➼ Romances that have more complex side characters vs. a true MMC and FMC
➼ Incredibly flawed characters that love, and are loved by, others
─────────────────────────
⍟»This or That«⍟
Character Driven—✧——————————Plot Driven
Fast Burn——————✧—————Slow Burn
Sweet———✧————————Spicy
Light/Fluffy————————✧———Heavy/Emotional
─────────────────────────
🎯 My Thoughts:
This was a three-star read for me. I appreciated Deli’s complex relationships and the inclusion of multiple perspectives, even though the overall resolution didn’t fully work for me.
The strongest elements were the realism of Deli’s struggles with body image and self-confidence, as well as the nuanced portrayal of Deli, Mo, and Lachlan’s complicated family dynamics. I especially enjoyed Mo’s POV, which helped illuminate Deli’s strained relationship with her mother and grandmother by offering the kind of support she’s been searching for throughout her life. The flower-meaning events woven throughout the story were also a unique and thoughtful touch.
Where the book lost me somewhat was in Deli’s acceptance—and even praise—of her toxic grandmother. I wished the character had been written with more true complexity rather than remaining largely fixed in her harmful patterns. Overall, the character growth across the cast left me feeling unsatisfied.
I also struggled with the romance. It took a long time to emerge, but not in a way that felt like a slow burn, and once it did, it was overshadowed by the many simultaneous conflicts in Deli’s life. With family issues, identity struggles, friendship tension, and an unrequited crush all unfolding at once, the emotional weight felt scattered. Much of the romance was conveyed through other characters commenting on the connection rather than through direct interaction, which made it harder for me to fully engage.
That said, this is a solid debut in fiction.
Would I Recommend?: Maybe. Readers who enjoy character-driven stories with imperfect, non-fluffy characters and romance that isn’t the central focus may find a lot to appreciate here.
▹My ⭐ Rating: ★★★☆☆ (3/5)
▹Format: 📱 eReader / 🎧Audiobook (Dual narration rating: 4/5)
Thank you to NetGalley and Montlake for a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. This book is already available and can be found on Kindle Unlimited.
─────────────────────────
○★○ What to Expect from This Book: ○★○
– About:
– FMC: Delilah “Deli” MacDonald. a floral designer who flees her life in L.A. after unrequited love and friendship betrayal to find healing in Scotland. Witty, resilient, heart-on-sleeve, grappling with family expectations and her own emotional legacy
– MMC: Lachlan Scott. a brooding pub owner in the Scottish Highlands whose path has crossed Deli’s before. Charismatic, quietly complex, a potential second chance at love with layers shaped by time and local life
– Location: Scottish Highlands
– POV: Multiple third-person (at least 5 perspectives)
– Spice: 2-3 semi-open-door spicy scenes (not very descriptive)
– Tropes: fish-out-of-water, starting over, small-town charm, complex family dynamics, self-discovery, dislike to lovers, unrequited crush (FMC and other character)
– Content warning: gaslighting, unrequited crush, controlling family, toxic family, friendship falling apart, identity crisis, unsupportive family (re: sexual preference/relationship)
– Representation: LGBTQ+ character
─────────────────────────
↻ ◁ || ▷ ↺ 1:00 ──ㅇ────── 4:12
Now Playing: Flowers by Miley Cyrus
╰┈➤ ❝Mm, I didn't wanna leave you, I didn't wanna lie; Started to cry, but then remembered I…I can buy myself flowers❞
─────────────────────────
★○ If You Like the Following, You Might Like This Book ○★
➼ Stories set in the British Isles, specifically Scotland
➼ Romances that have more complex side characters vs. a true MMC and FMC
➼ Incredibly flawed characters that love, and are loved by, others
─────────────────────────
⍟»This or That«⍟
Character Driven—✧——————————Plot Driven
Fast Burn——————✧—————Slow Burn
Sweet———✧————————Spicy
Light/Fluffy————————✧———Heavy/Emotional
─────────────────────────
🎯 My Thoughts:
This was a three-star read for me. I appreciated Deli’s complex relationships and the inclusion of multiple perspectives, even though the overall resolution didn’t fully work for me.
The strongest elements were the realism of Deli’s struggles with body image and self-confidence, as well as the nuanced portrayal of Deli, Mo, and Lachlan’s complicated family dynamics. I especially enjoyed Mo’s POV, which helped illuminate Deli’s strained relationship with her mother and grandmother by offering the kind of support she’s been searching for throughout her life. The flower-meaning events woven throughout the story were also a unique and thoughtful touch.
Where the book lost me somewhat was in Deli’s acceptance—and even praise—of her toxic grandmother. I wished the character had been written with more true complexity rather than remaining largely fixed in her harmful patterns. Overall, the character growth across the cast left me feeling unsatisfied.
I also struggled with the romance. It took a long time to emerge, but not in a way that felt like a slow burn, and once it did, it was overshadowed by the many simultaneous conflicts in Deli’s life. With family issues, identity struggles, friendship tension, and an unrequited crush all unfolding at once, the emotional weight felt scattered. Much of the romance was conveyed through other characters commenting on the connection rather than through direct interaction, which made it harder for me to fully engage.
That said, this is a solid debut in fiction.
Would I Recommend?: Maybe. Readers who enjoy character-driven stories with imperfect, non-fluffy characters and romance that isn’t the central focus may find a lot to appreciate here.
December 19, 2025
I always begin audiobooks set in Scotland (especially by American authors -sorry) with equal part sky high hopes and great trepidation. If you get it right it’s something magical but so many times I’ve seen it go so wrong, not this time……..this was beautiful.
Prepare to be encapsulated by the breathtaking beauty that only Caledonia possesses. The author has really sprung the land to life and offered a glimpse at the romance and history that yearn for.
I was skeptical from the outset that our fmc was on the move from LA to slot right in to Scotland and country life and find love but it absolutely worked. Perfect for the big screen!
The narration which was probably the most scary part for me was actually excellent!
Huge thanks to Brilliance Publishing and NetGalley for the opportunity to review this audiobook 🎧
Prepare to be encapsulated by the breathtaking beauty that only Caledonia possesses. The author has really sprung the land to life and offered a glimpse at the romance and history that yearn for.
I was skeptical from the outset that our fmc was on the move from LA to slot right in to Scotland and country life and find love but it absolutely worked. Perfect for the big screen!
The narration which was probably the most scary part for me was actually excellent!
Huge thanks to Brilliance Publishing and NetGalley for the opportunity to review this audiobook 🎧
November 30, 2025
Easily my favorite, most bingeable read this year!! I've read the ARC three times already and just got ahold of the audio version to experience it all over again with actual Scottish accents. I loved Devrie's first nonfiction book and knew her debut novel would not disappoint. She has a unique blend of quick wit (her knack for banter makes this such a charming and steamy romance) mixed with an ability to hit you right in the feels (a layered love story with yes, a hot Scottish man in a kilt, but also how family dynamics shape your ability to love yourself/accept love from others). I genuinely laughed out loud in one chapter, then teared up in the next.
Deli is a main character you want to root for – I think many women, especially those of us who are people pleasers, will see themselves in her. It's so inspiring to watch her go from feeling and acting like the side character, to realizing she can be the main character of her own story (and especially that that story can be different from the one her toxic family envisions for her).
And Lachlan is so, so hot. We love a man written by a woman. But his character isn't overdone either – I don't always adore books in the romance genre because some of the characterization just seems completely unrealistic to me. However, *this* guy is out here healing hearts he didn't break and it makes me absolutely melt into a puddle.
Oh and good luck resisting the urge to buy a one-way ticket to Scotland after reading because the atmosphere is so freaking cozy. It's giving Gilmore Girls or The Holiday in the best way... I can visualize a Nancy Meyers set for the movie already. The cherry on top is the language of flowers that's woven into the pages, there are so many beautiful and tender metaphors brought to life in colorful blooms.
The Art of Burning Heather has it all. I hope there's more where this came from!
Deli is a main character you want to root for – I think many women, especially those of us who are people pleasers, will see themselves in her. It's so inspiring to watch her go from feeling and acting like the side character, to realizing she can be the main character of her own story (and especially that that story can be different from the one her toxic family envisions for her).
And Lachlan is so, so hot. We love a man written by a woman. But his character isn't overdone either – I don't always adore books in the romance genre because some of the characterization just seems completely unrealistic to me. However, *this* guy is out here healing hearts he didn't break and it makes me absolutely melt into a puddle.
Oh and good luck resisting the urge to buy a one-way ticket to Scotland after reading because the atmosphere is so freaking cozy. It's giving Gilmore Girls or The Holiday in the best way... I can visualize a Nancy Meyers set for the movie already. The cherry on top is the language of flowers that's woven into the pages, there are so many beautiful and tender metaphors brought to life in colorful blooms.
The Art of Burning Heather has it all. I hope there's more where this came from!
January 12, 2026
2.5 stars/ 5 stars
Overall this story really lacked focus and a real direction. the writing felt disjointed at times and it was hard to follow along with what I think the author had in her head vs what was translated on the page. Plot points were abandoned that might have helped this book better align with the romance genre, and the beats that would have made this book more enjoyable (and that would help the reader overlook some of the character flaws). Sticking to more of the trope story lines like, finding Deli a fake Scottish boyfriend, and having her realize that with every date setup she was being more and more drawn to Lachlan, and having Lachlan get more and more jealous of the men Deli was going on dates with could have been really fun ( but that story line never really took off).
The author needed more time to flesh out more dynamic characters, with better motivations for the family trauma aspect to really work here. To me that was an anchor dragging this book. the book suffered from an identity crisis was it a romance book or was it a book about growing through family trauma and confronting it in the place it started. Either one could have been successful but trying to merge the two in this book was unsuccessful, and it actually hurt the characters, because both Deli and Lachlan felt stunted, instead of 3o-somethings they read more like teenagers. The dialogue/banter between the two felt stilted and stale, and the comedic points did not hit for me.
Ultimately this book didn't give itself enough room to breath, while simultaneously being almost 200 pages too long.
I came to this author through her TikTok, and while I find her oral story telling and humor to be very captivating on that platform, her talents did not translate in her book.
Overall this story really lacked focus and a real direction. the writing felt disjointed at times and it was hard to follow along with what I think the author had in her head vs what was translated on the page. Plot points were abandoned that might have helped this book better align with the romance genre, and the beats that would have made this book more enjoyable (and that would help the reader overlook some of the character flaws). Sticking to more of the trope story lines like, finding Deli a fake Scottish boyfriend, and having her realize that with every date setup she was being more and more drawn to Lachlan, and having Lachlan get more and more jealous of the men Deli was going on dates with could have been really fun ( but that story line never really took off).
The author needed more time to flesh out more dynamic characters, with better motivations for the family trauma aspect to really work here. To me that was an anchor dragging this book. the book suffered from an identity crisis was it a romance book or was it a book about growing through family trauma and confronting it in the place it started. Either one could have been successful but trying to merge the two in this book was unsuccessful, and it actually hurt the characters, because both Deli and Lachlan felt stunted, instead of 3o-somethings they read more like teenagers. The dialogue/banter between the two felt stilted and stale, and the comedic points did not hit for me.
Ultimately this book didn't give itself enough room to breath, while simultaneously being almost 200 pages too long.
I came to this author through her TikTok, and while I find her oral story telling and humor to be very captivating on that platform, her talents did not translate in her book.
September 15, 2025
The Art of Burning Heather --
This was my first time reading a novel by Devrie Brynn Donaldson. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
I devoured this book over a weekend, I was hooked from the first chapter, reading of
Delilah ...'She was only nine years old, but she knew the difference between being trapped and being free'.
I feel that this statement sets the tone for the rest of the book, where generational trauma roars it's ugly head time and time again.
Set in amongst the Scottish Highlands, the town is a character in itself, boasting it's wild cliffsides, weather and beautiful flora. A wild backdrop for many solitary characters who create their chosen family with the others who live in the dying town.
Think dysfuntional families with completely oppressive narcissistic mothers, alcoholic fathers, characters with low self esteem who accept the love they think they deserve, love, lust, some sexy chapters and true acceptance of self = this book.
My desire to travel to the Scottish Highlands to sit on a cliff side then run my hands through fields of wild heather is at an all time high.
I very much enjoyed reading this book.
This was my first time reading a novel by Devrie Brynn Donaldson. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
I devoured this book over a weekend, I was hooked from the first chapter, reading of
Delilah ...'She was only nine years old, but she knew the difference between being trapped and being free'.
I feel that this statement sets the tone for the rest of the book, where generational trauma roars it's ugly head time and time again.
Set in amongst the Scottish Highlands, the town is a character in itself, boasting it's wild cliffsides, weather and beautiful flora. A wild backdrop for many solitary characters who create their chosen family with the others who live in the dying town.
Think dysfuntional families with completely oppressive narcissistic mothers, alcoholic fathers, characters with low self esteem who accept the love they think they deserve, love, lust, some sexy chapters and true acceptance of self = this book.
My desire to travel to the Scottish Highlands to sit on a cliff side then run my hands through fields of wild heather is at an all time high.
I very much enjoyed reading this book.
January 8, 2026
I had to Google within the first 20 pages to see if I was reading YA.
To keep it nice: I’m supposed to believe that Deli is 35? An adult? What 35-year-old adult is using the acronym "BFF," and at that so frequently? Deli might register as 15, if I'm being generous, which makes this feel so much like a YA novel (which, granted, I might have enjoyed at 15). Every character fits a stereotypical trope that I thought we all agreed we are tired of. I have never given up on a book before, but after 104 pages of reading I had to return it to KU.
If nothing else, this book solidified what genre I’m into. It’s not whatever this is.
To keep it nice: I’m supposed to believe that Deli is 35? An adult? What 35-year-old adult is using the acronym "BFF," and at that so frequently? Deli might register as 15, if I'm being generous, which makes this feel so much like a YA novel (which, granted, I might have enjoyed at 15). Every character fits a stereotypical trope that I thought we all agreed we are tired of. I have never given up on a book before, but after 104 pages of reading I had to return it to KU.
If nothing else, this book solidified what genre I’m into. It’s not whatever this is.
December 27, 2025
Okay… this book. THIS BOOK. I knew I’d enjoy it, but I didn’t expect to feel like I’d accidentally stepped straight into the Scottish Highlands. The atmosphere is unreal like cozy, windswept, hot Scottish men kind of unreal. And the story? Emotional in the best way. Messy, heartfelt, endearing and full of those little moments that sneak up on you.
Following Deli through heartbreak, old wounds, family chaos and this tiny Scottish village that wraps around her like a warm fuzzy cow just hit. And then there’s the pub owner. A broody Scotsman with quiet intensity? Yeah… I didn’t stand a chance. None of you will. Like think Jeffrey Morgan in PS I Love You won’t stand a chance.
And since I sadly cannot teleport myself to Scotland (trust me, if I could, I’d already be standing in a field petting a Highland cow), I’ll just keep rereading this book like it’s my personal escape back to the moors.
Highland cows? Check.
Gorgeous Scottish scenery? Check.
A very attractive kilted man who makes you forget how to breathe? Big, giant, dramatic CHECK.
This one just feels special. Cozy and emotional and a little wild in all the right ways.
Following Deli through heartbreak, old wounds, family chaos and this tiny Scottish village that wraps around her like a warm fuzzy cow just hit. And then there’s the pub owner. A broody Scotsman with quiet intensity? Yeah… I didn’t stand a chance. None of you will. Like think Jeffrey Morgan in PS I Love You won’t stand a chance.
And since I sadly cannot teleport myself to Scotland (trust me, if I could, I’d already be standing in a field petting a Highland cow), I’ll just keep rereading this book like it’s my personal escape back to the moors.
Highland cows? Check.
Gorgeous Scottish scenery? Check.
A very attractive kilted man who makes you forget how to breathe? Big, giant, dramatic CHECK.
This one just feels special. Cozy and emotional and a little wild in all the right ways.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 14, 2026
I enjoyed the story, but deli was so insufferable to me the majority of the time. Could be very immature and cringey.
I wish the storyline about the women in her family was a bit more than it was because I did find it very real and interesting.
I wish the storyline about the women in her family was a bit more than it was because I did find it very real and interesting.
January 5, 2026
2.5 too dramatic for my taste.
October 7, 2026
Reading a book about a 29 year old florist who runs away to Scotland was a terrible plan while I’m in PA school…
May 10, 2026
I really enjoyed this. It gets bogged down in the last 20-25% of the book. But I'll read more of what she writes!
May 8, 2026
My first DNF this year and only the second in the last two years. About 50 pages in, and I can’t stand it… The characters, the story, the writing… Everything… Usually out of sheer pride and I know this is wrong, I will read a book just to say I finished it but… This is unbearable and life is too short!
January 8, 2026
I loved this book so much. What a great start to the year and my reading goal, reading it on my new kindle that I got for Christmas! I felt like I was in every part of the story. It was so vivid and emotional, and I was really able to get a feel of all of the characters. I love Devrie, and I hope that she continues her journey as an author because I need more books from her asap! I'll definitely be getting myself a physical copy of this book to own, too. 💜
January 2, 2026
I'm so very glad I picked this as my first book of 2026. If you would have told me a year ago I could finish a 400+ page book in less than 2 days, I would not have believed you. My love for a good binge (shows, documentaries, movie series, video games) now extends to books, and I'm very grateful for Devrie Donalson for making me confident in saying so. My favorite modern author.
January 20, 2026
I laughed, I cried, I cried some more. Bravo and give me more.
July 26, 2026
Read it NOW. This book was so witty and silly and painful and frustrating and healing. My soul is happy.
December 14, 2025
I am such a sucker for books set in Scotland and every time I want to book a plane ticket and visit.
Deli was an amazing main character. She escaped to a small Scottish town with her estranged aunt after her best friend (and long term crush) rejects her. Shes surrounded by toxic relationships with her best friends and her family. Watching her grow and come into her own was satisfying. And Lachlan? The broody Scot with a chip on his shoulder was the perfect balance to Deli. I loved the setting (of course) but I also enjoyed the flower symbolism woven throughout the story. I enjoyed the romance and all the friendships in the story.
🎧 I mixed the physical and audio while reading. Mia Hutchinson-Shaw and Angus King brought the story to life. I had a great time listening and I’m always going to enjoy accents.
Thank you to the author, Booked With the Emily’s, and Brilliance Audio for my early review copy.
Deli was an amazing main character. She escaped to a small Scottish town with her estranged aunt after her best friend (and long term crush) rejects her. Shes surrounded by toxic relationships with her best friends and her family. Watching her grow and come into her own was satisfying. And Lachlan? The broody Scot with a chip on his shoulder was the perfect balance to Deli. I loved the setting (of course) but I also enjoyed the flower symbolism woven throughout the story. I enjoyed the romance and all the friendships in the story.
🎧 I mixed the physical and audio while reading. Mia Hutchinson-Shaw and Angus King brought the story to life. I had a great time listening and I’m always going to enjoy accents.
Thank you to the author, Booked With the Emily’s, and Brilliance Audio for my early review copy.
December 5, 2025
A heartfelt thank you to @devriebryn and @bookedwiththeemilys for the stunning #gifted book, and to @brilliancepublishing for the captivating #gifted audiobook.
This novel is truly a gem! I was utterly immersed in the story from the very first page and found it impossible to put down.
The writing is exquisitely crafted, infused with genuine emotion, and set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Scottish Highlands. The story unfolds through multiple perspectives, primarily those of Lachlan and Deli, as well as Aunt Mo, Deli’s mother, and her grandmother. Each viewpoint enriches the storyline, breathing life into the family’s history.
Lachlan and Deli, both shaped by their past traumas, dislike each other at the start. However, they find their attraction growing and embark on a courageous journey to embrace love, a truly moving aspect of their relationship. Deli has spent her life trying to meet the expectations of her mother, grandmother, best friend, and the boy she believes she loves, only to be manipulated and left questioning her own strength. However, her visit to Scotland and the warmth of her Aunt Mo reveals a world where she is celebrated for her true self.
I adored the townspeople's warmth and acceptance of Deli. The witty banter and tension between Deli and Lachlan had me laughing out loud on numerous occasions.
The narrators delivered an outstanding performance, bringing each character to vivid life. I felt as if I were right there in Scotland with them, fully experiencing their emotions, humor, and sarcasm.
If you’re drawn to intricate family dynamics, poignant second-chance romance, the enchanting Scottish Highlands, and journeys of self-discovery, this book is a must-read.
This novel is truly a gem! I was utterly immersed in the story from the very first page and found it impossible to put down.
The writing is exquisitely crafted, infused with genuine emotion, and set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Scottish Highlands. The story unfolds through multiple perspectives, primarily those of Lachlan and Deli, as well as Aunt Mo, Deli’s mother, and her grandmother. Each viewpoint enriches the storyline, breathing life into the family’s history.
Lachlan and Deli, both shaped by their past traumas, dislike each other at the start. However, they find their attraction growing and embark on a courageous journey to embrace love, a truly moving aspect of their relationship. Deli has spent her life trying to meet the expectations of her mother, grandmother, best friend, and the boy she believes she loves, only to be manipulated and left questioning her own strength. However, her visit to Scotland and the warmth of her Aunt Mo reveals a world where she is celebrated for her true self.
I adored the townspeople's warmth and acceptance of Deli. The witty banter and tension between Deli and Lachlan had me laughing out loud on numerous occasions.
The narrators delivered an outstanding performance, bringing each character to vivid life. I felt as if I were right there in Scotland with them, fully experiencing their emotions, humor, and sarcasm.
If you’re drawn to intricate family dynamics, poignant second-chance romance, the enchanting Scottish Highlands, and journeys of self-discovery, this book is a must-read.
January 13, 2026
Great story line and character development but way too much cliche' description. I scanned large portions but had to find out what happened! The sex was rather clumsy. Best left to the reader's imagination.
January 23, 2026
I feel this book is a Mary Poppins book - "Practically perfect in every way." It's got fade to black spice, minimal offensive words, and the author has a fantastic way of putting words together. I've followed Devrie on TikTok for quite a few years, and have found her way of living life to be fun and expressive. She follows this pattern in her writing and in the details she puts in her book. I highly recommend this book as a palate cleanser from other books/genres and an overall great read to enjoy. I really hope she continues with where the epilogue left off!!
December 28, 2025
I feel like this was hard to get through in the middle because the main character was such a crybaby. For a 29 year old, I wasn’t expecting every interaction she had (with literal strangers) to be her sobbing her eyes out. Her mother/grandmother sounded cartoonishly evil, so much so that their “redemption” does not translate well in the end. I wanted more of the relationship between the women in her family than the relationship with a boy, but overall it was a decent story to get lost in.
January 10, 2026
Impatiens
One flower not mentioned in this book is actually a good title from my review. So sweet story, and I adore Scotland. However, this book was about 150 pages too long. I did like the description of the flowers and their meanings. When I discovered Gorse while in Scotland my first time the scent was all I needed to fall in love with Scotland. I wish I could have fallen in love with the book.
One flower not mentioned in this book is actually a good title from my review. So sweet story, and I adore Scotland. However, this book was about 150 pages too long. I did like the description of the flowers and their meanings. When I discovered Gorse while in Scotland my first time the scent was all I needed to fall in love with Scotland. I wish I could have fallen in love with the book.
January 24, 2026
I started off really liking this book but as the Brits say, it was like wading through treacle! I mean you know the mains are gonna get together in the end but yea gods! Anyway I ended up skipping chapters towards the end and don’t feel like I missed much.
March 3, 2026
so so bad
This book is terrible. It lacks any kind of redeeming quality. Shit characters who are all so juvenile. The word count in this really bad book is over indulgent and quite frankly painful.
This book is terrible. It lacks any kind of redeeming quality. Shit characters who are all so juvenile. The word count in this really bad book is over indulgent and quite frankly painful.
March 27, 2026
The family relationships were intense and disfunctional. Deli’s self image was so warped. So sad that many women are still trying to make themselves take up less room both figuratively and literally. Luckily she had some wild women as examples to follow.
March 10, 2026
The Art of Burning Heather is the stunning debut novel by author Devrie Brynn Donalson.
On a trip to Scotland as a child, Delilah (Deli) runs among the heather, momentarily escaping the sharp glint of her mother’s eye. Along the cliffs, she meets Lachlan, a young boy a few years older, who beguiles her with his candidness and his camera.
Twenty years later, Deli’s life is crumbling around her. Her best friend has been ignoring her. Her long-time love is unrequited. She loses her job. And her mother’s love is conditional. So on a whim, Deli escapes to the Scottish highlands to visit the aunt she hasn’t seen in 20 years, and while there, comes face to face with a reckoning she’s been building towards most of her life.
The Art of Burning Heather is a romance, filled with angst and anger and miscommunication, and ultimately the discovery of acceptance, care, and an unconditional kind of love. But it’s also a family drama, fueled by generational trauma. The story is told in third person narration through multiple POVs, including three generations of women from one family, but the majority of the story is viewed from Deli and Lachlan’s perspective.
The story is more character-driven than plot, but the development of the characters and their arcs are a masterpiece. Donalson perfectly captures the duality of all the characters, and while some will always be the villain in the story of Deli’s life, others are redeemed.
I found Deli entirely relatable. She’s struggled under the weight of other’s expectations her whole life. She has been surrounded by gaslighting family and friends who couch their transgressions as concern and care for her. She has been made to feel less than because of her weight, her interests, her personality. However, it’s delightful to watch her discover her true identity, and to experience the support she gets when she finally finds her “people.”
Overall, I absolutely adored this small-town story of love and self-discovery set in the magical highlands of Scotland. I can’t wait to read more from the author in the future!
On a trip to Scotland as a child, Delilah (Deli) runs among the heather, momentarily escaping the sharp glint of her mother’s eye. Along the cliffs, she meets Lachlan, a young boy a few years older, who beguiles her with his candidness and his camera.
Twenty years later, Deli’s life is crumbling around her. Her best friend has been ignoring her. Her long-time love is unrequited. She loses her job. And her mother’s love is conditional. So on a whim, Deli escapes to the Scottish highlands to visit the aunt she hasn’t seen in 20 years, and while there, comes face to face with a reckoning she’s been building towards most of her life.
The Art of Burning Heather is a romance, filled with angst and anger and miscommunication, and ultimately the discovery of acceptance, care, and an unconditional kind of love. But it’s also a family drama, fueled by generational trauma. The story is told in third person narration through multiple POVs, including three generations of women from one family, but the majority of the story is viewed from Deli and Lachlan’s perspective.
The story is more character-driven than plot, but the development of the characters and their arcs are a masterpiece. Donalson perfectly captures the duality of all the characters, and while some will always be the villain in the story of Deli’s life, others are redeemed.
I found Deli entirely relatable. She’s struggled under the weight of other’s expectations her whole life. She has been surrounded by gaslighting family and friends who couch their transgressions as concern and care for her. She has been made to feel less than because of her weight, her interests, her personality. However, it’s delightful to watch her discover her true identity, and to experience the support she gets when she finally finds her “people.”
Overall, I absolutely adored this small-town story of love and self-discovery set in the magical highlands of Scotland. I can’t wait to read more from the author in the future!
October 16, 2026
Some books take a little longer to finish, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t worth the journey. 📚
The Art of Burning Heather by Devri Brynn Donalson was one of those books for me. I moved between listening to the audiobook and reading the physical book, and while it took me a while to finish, it certainly wasn’t because of the quality of the story.
And of course, the Scottish setting was an added bonus for me. Anyone who knows me knows how much I love Scotland, so spending time there through the pages of a book is always a treat.
At its heart, this is a story about the complicated relationships between mothers and daughters, the emotions and experiences that shape us, and what it means to open your heart to love.
What struck me most was how relatable it all felt. Relationships are messy. Families are complicated. And sometimes allowing ourselves to love and be loved is harder than we expect.
This was a thoughtful, emotionally layered read that reminded me that some stories are worth taking your time with. Definitely one for your TBR.
The Art of Burning Heather by Devri Brynn Donalson was one of those books for me. I moved between listening to the audiobook and reading the physical book, and while it took me a while to finish, it certainly wasn’t because of the quality of the story.
And of course, the Scottish setting was an added bonus for me. Anyone who knows me knows how much I love Scotland, so spending time there through the pages of a book is always a treat.
At its heart, this is a story about the complicated relationships between mothers and daughters, the emotions and experiences that shape us, and what it means to open your heart to love.
What struck me most was how relatable it all felt. Relationships are messy. Families are complicated. And sometimes allowing ourselves to love and be loved is harder than we expect.
This was a thoughtful, emotionally layered read that reminded me that some stories are worth taking your time with. Definitely one for your TBR.
February 3, 2026
3.25⭐
Frankly, the story is a little jumbled with some very interesting parts, some that just miss the mark and some just confusing. Deli's blossoming in Scotland and her creating a found family there is a touching story, especially all the fascinating characters that she meets. I wish there was more to that and less of intense and very strange drama between her, her mother and grandmother. And her supposed friend, Chloe, and best friend, Trey, were both malignant and narcissistic and I can't begin to understand why she was so obsessed with both of them. Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
Frankly, the story is a little jumbled with some very interesting parts, some that just miss the mark and some just confusing. Deli's blossoming in Scotland and her creating a found family there is a touching story, especially all the fascinating characters that she meets. I wish there was more to that and less of intense and very strange drama between her, her mother and grandmother. And her supposed friend, Chloe, and best friend, Trey, were both malignant and narcissistic and I can't begin to understand why she was so obsessed with both of them. Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
December 4, 2025
5⭐️ Truly love so much of this book. The banter between Lachlan and Deli was truly so good. The family drama was just enough to feel like the characters were real and grew. So much wonderful found family. If you loved Iris in The Holiday, you will love Deli. Lachlan too finds his worth after a life of emotional trauma. Mo is such a fabulous addition to meddle just enough with these two. Love that there was focus on her story too.
5⭐️ narration from Mia Hutchinson-Shaw and Angus King. No notes! I need more please and thank you.
Thank you so much to @bookedwiththeemilys, @netgalley, @devriebrynn, and @brilliancepublishing for the #gifted listener copy.
5⭐️ narration from Mia Hutchinson-Shaw and Angus King. No notes! I need more please and thank you.
Thank you so much to @bookedwiththeemilys, @netgalley, @devriebrynn, and @brilliancepublishing for the #gifted listener copy.
December 24, 2025
One of my favorite books of the year! It was a delightful read (& listen) made me think and laugh and cry. I was rooting for Deli and fell in love with more than one character. It felt like it was on my own journey in the highlands. Got lost in the book and couldn’t put it down. It touched on some of my personal pain points and felt redemptive and freeing. Wow. Well done Devrie. 👏🏼
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