Of Heather and Thistle

by Erinn Maxwell

Heather Campbell never expected to inherit a crumbling Scottish estate—or to fall for the rugged contractor tasked with restoring it. But as she unearths family secrets hidden in Glenoran’s walls, she must decide whether to sell the past or embrace a future she never imagined.

Genres: Romance

412 pages, Paperback

Published September 1, 2025

About the author

Erinn Maxwell writes sweeping love stories rooted in heritage, history, and the kind of feminine strength that echoes across generations. A lifelong romantic with deep Celtic roots, she blends emotional depth with adventure, mystery, and a touch of wild magic.

Her debut novel, Of Heather and Thistle, began as a love letter to Scotland and quickly grew into a universe of legacy, hidden treasure, and fierce women reclaiming their stories. She is currently expanding the series with Of Fate and Fortune and the historical prequel Of Rebels and Ruin, while also writing The Golden Legacy, an Irish family saga inspired by her own ancestors.

When Erinn isn’t writing, she’s chasing her two daughters, baking something cozy, or dreaming up ways to visit the British Isles “for research.”

She lives in California with her husband, two little girls, and far too many books.

Reviews

[Stress Reader · Rating 4 out of 5]

Of Heather and Thistle ARC Review - Erinn Maxwell 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿🪻
⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️✨

Of Heather and Thistle is a contemporary romance laden with history and mystery set in Scotland. Full of atmospheric charm and fun banter while taking readers on a journey of self discovery and healing. This book is set to release Sept 1, 2025.

When Heather is suddenly and unexpectedly handed the keys to an old estate in Scotland, she decides to take a chance and go check the place out. The handsome local contractor she hires to restore the estate sees her like no one else has and she can't help but he attracted to him. When he tasks her with going through some of the boxes in the old house, she stumbles upon a mystery that's been kept secret for hundreds of years. Once the renovation is done, she has to decide between selling and returning to her comfortable but mundane life stateside, or staying and giving Scotland, including Flynn, a real chance.

📖 The overall plot I found quite interesting. Enough so that I would love a second book exploring the search for the object the secret reveals. However, there was a chunk that I forgot I was reading a romance. Which is fine by me, I was interested and invested. I feel some strictly romance readers wouldn't enjoy that section, though. It did pull me out of the story when I realized the romance aspect had been absent for a minute.

✍🏼 I found it well written and loved the Scottish words and phrases. The historical stuff seemed to be well researched and explained, which I appreciate and found intriguing.

⏳The pacing is solid, aside from the section previously mentioned. I feel that section slowed the romance progress some.

👥 The characters are solid, with individual personalities and the FMC shows great character growth. I love and appreciate that the MMC is emotionally mature.

🗣️ The banter is fun. The dialogue is good, fits the characters/story and reads as natural.

💞 This is a slow burn. It's a minute before they even meet, and then there's build up watching their friendship grow. I appreciate that being shown, as that's a necessary component for me. I found their romance to be realistic and fun.

🌶️ The spice quality was excellent, quantity was about 2 fully explicit scenes. They're well written, timed, and placed - and hot.

💭 I had to look up a couple of words (like "fash") because I had no idea what they meant. Context clues gave me a vague idea, but I wanted more. An index of those might be helpful.

Thank you to @erinnmaxwellwrites for the opportunity to read this eARC. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.



-----
frtc - had a really good time reading this. so wasn't prepared for a Scotsman saying, "good girl." 🥵

[TheBrambleBookNook · Rating 5 out of 5]

Of Heather and Thistle by Erinn Maxwell: A Review

Erinn Maxwell's debut novel, Of Heather and Thistle, opens with the evocative line: "Heather Mackenzie Campbell had spent her entire life surrounded by silence, but none as deafening as the stillness that filled her father's empty house." This introduction sets the tone for a romance that successfully balances themes of grief and renewal against the atmospheric backdrop of the Scottish Highlands.

A Familiar Story

Maxwell crafts a story that will resonate with readers of Elizabeth Gilbert's Eat, Pray, Love or Frances Mayes' Under the Tuscan Sun—narratives that explore personal transformation through geographic and emotional journeys. The novel follows Heather Mackenzie Campbell as she navigates the complex terrain of loss, self-discovery, and unexpected love, delivering what can best be described as an uplifting contemporary romance with literary sensibilities.

Masterful World-Building

The Scottish countryside emerges as more than mere setting; it functions as an active participant in the narrative. Maxwell demonstrates considerable skill in her descriptive passages, from the visceral immediacy of Highland rainstorms to the imposing grandeur of ancestral estates. Her prose transforms the landscape into a character unto itself, creating the cozy, romantic atmosphere that defines the novel's appeal. The author's attention to detail in depicting rural Scottish life—from quaint bed-and-breakfasts to bustling market towns—creates an immersive reading experience that grounds the story's emotional journey.

Character Development and Relationship Dynamics

The novel's greatest strength lies in its character development. Heather emerges as an authentically flawed protagonist whose introspective nature invites reader empathy. Her struggle with grief and uncertainty creates a relatable foundation for the story's emotional arc. Flynn, the male lead, avoids the typical romance novel pitfalls through his well-developed personality—his blue-collar sensibilities and dry humor provide an effective counterpoint to Heather's vulnerability. The chemistry between the protagonists is particularly well-executed, with dialogue that feels natural and engaging rather than forced.

Historical Integration

Maxwell demonstrates commendable research in weaving Scottish history and mythology into her contemporary narrative. The mysterious ancestral house serves as both plot device and symbol, honoring Scotland's rich cultural heritage without overwhelming the central romance. This historical element adds depth to what could have been a straightforward contemporary romance, suggesting promising developments for future installments.

Final Thoughts

Of Heather and Thistle succeeds as both an engaging romance and a thoughtful exploration of healing and self-acceptance. While the novel occasionally leans into familiar romance tropes, Maxwell's skilled prose and authentic character development elevate the material above genre conventions. The book will particularly appeal to readers who enjoy character-driven narratives with strong sense of place and emotional depth.

Maxwell has created a promising foundation for what appears to be a series, and readers will likely find themselves eager to return to her version of Scotland. This is a confident debut that marks Maxwell as an author worth watching in the contemporary romance genre. Overall, I give it 5 out of 5 berries.

[Medusa · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was definitely worth every minute of my time. The chemistry between Heather and Flynn felt super real and natural. Their bantering was smooth too, and always, always had me. Along the line, I even found myself wanting to be called mo chridhe. 😞😂

I really love how well-written each character was — including the side characters. Ivy literally had me boiling, and if I could, I would've gone into the book and lunged at her throat at least once.

Learning about a part of Scotland's history from the book was a big bonus for me, and it’s piqued my interest to research it.

Thank you, Erinn Maxwell, for this ARC. Of Heather and Thistle is an amazing story, and I’ll find myself thinking about it for a very long time.

[Belinha · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you to The Author Agency for this ARC!

Review:
I really enjoyed the setting in this, and wish there was more of the Scottish highlands for the reader to fully immerse themselves in this world. Flynn, the MMC, is a lovely character and it was a pleasure to see him interact with Heather, and with the Glenoran house.

There are two main things that prevented me from giving this a higher rating. The first one being the amount of descriptive paragraphs. It was just too much and takes the reader out of the story. Too many details about the house and the renovations, which are not interesting for the reader. The second thing is more of a personal choice. Every single chapter ended in a way that felt corny, with one or two repetitive sentences talking about new beginnings, facing the past, etc. I didn’t think it was necessary.

Overall, it was a fun read in a unique setting, with an interesting dynamic between the characters.

Synopsis:
Of Heather and Thistle is a slow-burn, heartfelt romance about second chances, self-discovery, and the unexpected places we find home. After a childhood shaped by loss and betrayal - a father who drowned his grief in liquor and a best friend who shattered her trust - Heather Mackenzie Campbell has spent years keeping her heart guarded and her roots shallow. So when she inherits her family's crumbling Scottish estate, Glenoran House, she sees it as nothing more than a burden. The plan is simple: fix it up, sell it, and leave Scotland behind for good.

But Glenoran isn't just a relic of the past. Its creaking walls whisper history and forgotten secrets of a past that refuses to stay buried. And then there's Flynn, the rugged, maddeningly charming contractor who seems determined to remind her that some things, some places, some people, are worth holding onto.

As Heather unearths hidden letters, lost artifacts, and the story of an ancestor who may have concealed something far more valuable than heirlooms, she realizes she's standing at a crossroads. She can keep running, return to the safety of the life she left behind, or she can stay and finally face all she's been avoiding - including how Flynn makes her feel.

But some things can't stay hidden forever, and the closer she gets to the truth, the harder it becomes to ignore what her heart has known all along.

[Melissa Widener · Rating 4 out of 5]

Of Heather and Thistle by Erinn Maxwell
4.4⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 1/5
Cursing: min-
Format/Source: ebook ARC from NetGalley, The Author Agency
Genres/Tropes: romance, slow burn, healing
Settings: Chicago; Scotland
Audience: Adult
Characters: Heather, Ivy, Mark, Sam, Flynn
👍 short-med chapters, healing, Scotland, slow burn, book loving FMC, min- cursing
👎 cat chirping

Description:
Heather Campbell never expected to inherit a crumbling Scottish estate—or to fall for the rugged contractor tasked with restoring it. But as she unearths family secrets hidden in Glenoran’s walls, she must decide whether to sell the past or embrace a future she never imagined.

My opinion:
Erinn pens a fast-paced romance novel with highland cows (my favorite) and a cute cat. The cat was written to "chirp" way too frequently...and when does a cat ever chirp??? Petty of me, maybe, but still got to me. I loved the Scotland setting, and it was described so beautifully. The short chapters made for an effortless read. The characters were written well; however, Heather did frustrate me sometimes. I did adore that she loved books. It may have been a slow burn romance, but the storyline progressed at a lovely pace. I truly appreciated that there was little cursing to pollute the storyline. I enjoyed this novel and would recommend it to anyone who enjoys slow burn romance stories.
#bookstagram #arcreader #booklovers #netgalley #romancebooks #booktok #erinnmaxwell #highlands #coo #cat
***I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily

[Amanda M · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved that this book was set in Scotland. And I really liked the history pieces that were placed in this. Then the dialogue between the characters is on point. And the romance between the main characters I liked that it built slowly throughout the story. In my opinion this made the characters feel real giving this component of the story authenticity to the relationship that was evolving. Another thing that I enjoyed about this book was the journey these characters took, how healing was a component of finding yourself, and that finding a place to call home or to even feel like you belong is somewhere you least expect. This was very evident in this book. I loved the storyline, the pacing, and the characters. This was a fantastic debut novel. I look forward to reading more by this author.

[Elysia Tatlow · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a cute, very slow burn read. The first half of the book we get a lot of back story into Heather’s life, the grief she has endured and what leads her to take the leap and go to Scotland.
I really liked Heather and Flynn’s banter, and that Flynn was a steady constant, exactly what Heather needed. Never pushing or asking her for more than she could give.
The history parts woven into the story were fascinating. The mystery element is neat and I do wish it had been explored a little more.
Overall fun, easy read.

I received an ARC of this book.

[Beth · Rating 3 out of 5]

Of Heather And Thistle is a poetic love story rooted in the sweeping beauty of the Scottish Highlands. Beyond romance, it’s also a journey of self-discovery, healing, and uncovering family secrets. Heather is weighed down by grief, guilt over a toxic friendship, and mysteries in her family’s past.

From the very first Highland meet-cute, her banter with Flynn sparkles. He’s the calm, grounding presence to her storm, and together their slow-burn chemistry is both heartwarming and irresistible. This story is equal parts tender romance and emotional growth—a charming tale that lingers like mist on the moors.
3.25 ⭐

[Kashmir M · Rating 3 out of 5]

The story was cute and I loved the Scottish aspect to it. it was, however, very repetitive which made it hard to get through at some points. I do think this is a good book for lovers of rom-coms and Scottish history!

[Sara Lyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beyond a romantic comedy love story, this narrative explores profound themes of grief, healing, and renewal. Its resonance is reminiscent of a loyal friend offering words of wisdom, encouraging you to face your fears, extend kindness to yourself, and undergo the healing process.

[Tiffany Hill · Rating 5 out of 5]

**Discovering a New Life!**

*Of Heather and Thistle* is the debut novel by Erinn Maxwell, and it truly drew me in from the very first page. The author has invested considerable thought in developing both Heather and Flynn, making their experiences relatable and their emotions deeply felt. The rich world-building, filled with detailed history and elements of Scottish mythology, added an extra layer of immersion that I found really poignant.

Heather’s journey to discover her true self resonated with me—it’s a path that so many of us can relate to. Along the way, she not only seeks love but also uncovers deeper truths about her mother, which adds a meaningful layer to her story. The meet-cute and witty banter between Heather and Flynn brought genuine joy; I found myself laughing out loud during my breaks, as if I were right there with them. Flynn is portrayed as an understanding and caring partner, always there for Heather, even when she’s struggling to let him in. Their slow-burn romance is beautifully crafted, allowing Heather the time and space she needs to heal and openly embrace a deeper, healthier relationship.

The book’s pacing is so engaging that I found myself completely absorbed, not wanting to put it down. I ended up finishing it quickly, feeling a sense of longing for more of Heather’s journey and the love she found along the way. This story is a heartfelt reminder of the complexities of self-discovery and connection, and it truly left an impact on me.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Erinn Maxwell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Erinn Maxwell (author)
I still can’t believe this book is real. Of Heather and Thistle was born out of grief, love, and the wild hope that healing is possible—even when it feels like everything is falling apart. Writing it changed me. I hope reading it gives you comfort, makes you laugh, and reminds you that home can sometimes be the place you least expect. 💚

[Kimberly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Of Heather and Thistle by Erinn Maxwell.
Published by Wild Thistle Publishing.

What a sweet moment to meet this author at a book event and end up with this adorable book in my hands. I thought I was just smiling politely and walking away with a signed copy. Instead, I apparently walked away with a one-way ticket to emotional upheaval, several late nights, and a renewed desire to run away to Scotland the second life feels even slightly inconvenient. This book did not ask for permission before renovating my heart like Flynn with a tool belt and no respect for personal boundaries.

We start with Heather, who inherits a crumbling Scottish estate that has the energy of a house that would definitely creak ominously just to assert dominance. She arrives with the emotional exhaustion of someone who has endured one too many disappointments and thinks she can outrun them with a plane ticket. Enter Glenoran House, which basically says, Absolutely not, lass. We have things to discuss. And then comes Flynn, the rugged contractor with the sense of humor that makes you want to throw something at him and the gentle steadiness that makes you want to hand him your entire soul. An infuriating combination, truly.

This story wraps around you like a warm tartan blanket that slowly tightens until you realize it’s actually guiding you through your feelings, which should be illegal. The Scottish setting is rich without being overwrought. The mist, the hills, the quiet spaces between heartbreak and hope. It all feels lived-in and personal. The estate itself becomes a character, carrying the weight of family secrets that are dusty, painful, and long overdue for fresh air. And Heather, bless her anxious heart, decides to face it all with a bravery that feels small at first, then grows into something fierce and resilient.

Her dynamic with Flynn is a perfect slow simmer. No rushed passion, no instant soulmate theatrics. Just steady, consistent connection. He sees her clearly, often before she sees herself. She resists, hesitates, rebuilds, and—for once—chooses something because she wants it, not because someone else expects it from her. Their banter is sharp and funny, the kind that makes you grin like an idiot, and their soft moments land with quiet power.

Heather’s emotional journey is the real centerpiece. The way she confronts trauma, abandonment, and the ache of a childhood carved by loss is honest and relatable. There’s no magical fix, only hard truth, reflection, and the kind of growth that feels earned. And when the house reveals its own hidden past through artifacts and letters, it mirrors her internal restoration. It’s clever without being heavy handed.

My favorite line, the one that made me pause and breathe for a second, was: “Sometimes home isn’t a place you return to, but a truth you finally stop running from.” A highlight-worthy sentence if I’ve ever seen one.

By the time I turned the last page, I felt like I’d taken a long walk through rain-soaked heather fields, cried a little, laughed a lot, and maybe flirted with a Scotsman who calls people things like mo chridhe. Pure chaos for the heart.

If you love slow burn romance, moody landscapes, found family vibes, emotional healing, and a hero who falls first with quiet devotion, this book belongs on your shelf immediately. It’s cozy, witty, atmospheric, and beautifully human. A debut that hits all the right notes.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 stars

#OfHeatherAndThistle #ErinnMaxwell #BookReview #RomanceBooks #ScottishRomance #SlowBurnRomance #CozyReads #Bookstagram #BookTok #HighlandReads #FoundFamily #HealingJourney #ReadersOfInstagram

[Cassie · Rating 3 out of 5]

✨️✨️ ARC Review ✨️✨️

There are some books that sweep you away so completely that when you put them down you feel as though you have been somewhere else entirely.

Of Heather and Thistle is one of those stories.
We meet Heather Campbell at a crossroads in her life. Worn down by family troubles and the weight of old friendships gone sour, she does what many of us have dreamed of doing. She runs away. In Heather’s case, it is to Scotland, where a crumbling estate has unexpectedly fallen into her hands.

From the moment she arrives, Scotland makes its presence known. The weather is wild, the wildlife just as dramatic, and Heather’s ancestral home is both breathtaking and daunting. It is a place full of secrets, treasures and questions about whether to hold on to the past or let it go.

What I loved is the constant push and pull within Heather. One moment she is ready to pack it all in and the next she is fiercely determined to stay. Then in walks the contractor, all grit and no nonsense, who stirs up even more feelings she would rather run away from. Their interactions are as tense as they are tender and provide just the right amount of spark to keep the story moving.

As Heather uncovers priceless heirlooms and unravels long-hidden family stories, she slowly begins to unravel herself too. By the end she is standing taller, letting go of those who weighed her down and opening herself to a brighter future. Watching her find her voice and her courage was the highlight of the book for me.

Erinn Maxwell writes with such emotional depth that every twist in Heather’s journey feels real and meaningful. The setting is vivid, the romance is heartfelt, and the ending leaves you with that warm sense of hope we all crave. For me, though, the pacing sometimes felt a touch repetitive and the romance could have gone deeper, which is why this sits at three stars rather than higher. (I give it 3.5 but unfortunately we can't give half stars on goodreads).

Of Heather and Thistle is a story full of charm, resilience and atmosphere. Perfect if you enjoy a mix of family secrets, emotional growth and a touch of Scottish romance.

[Lucrezia Castello · Rating 4 out of 5]

Having not had a father figure for half your life makes it difficult to miss him. It might sound cynical, but Heather Campbell really tried to get closer to her father after her mother died. However, the harder she tried, the more frustrated she became, so she decided to distance herself and find her own balance. Or so she thought...

After an 'arranged' date with someone who wasn't Heather, the girl felt even more estranged from the place where she lived. If her best friend didn't trust her and she had to resort to playing games to get her out again, she decided she wanted to get away from everything and everyone.
As luck would have it, her parents' lawyer had informed her before the disaster struck that she had inherited a property in Scotland from her mother. What better way to make a fresh start than to go and see what she left her?

She is not given a warm welcome upon her arrival in Scotland; in fact, it begins with rain and incidents of an animal nature.
Seeking momentary shelter, she is greeted by this imposing yet breathtaking figure: Flynn Duncan, a Scottish man with a great sense of humour and a tragicomic side.

This unusual acquaintance marks the beginning of a collaboration to restore Glenoran's estate and determine its future: a decision that, yes, will depend on her, but Flynn will also have a huge impact on this choice...

This novel teaches us a few things, both psychological and historical. Firstly, it shows how human nature can err and sin through pride. Once the damage is done, it is difficult to backtrack and one must respect the will of others.

In terms of history, the impact of the protagonists handling historical artefacts that have never been unearthed, which may provide details of battles that took place on the Scottish moors centuries ago, is significant.

For being the author's debut novel, it was a fascinating read, deep and full of twists!

I look forward to reading more of her works🫶🏻

[FionaBluesBookCafe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Of Heather and Thistle by Erinn Maxwell was a fantastic read that I thoroughly enjoyed. This was the first book by Erinn Maxwell that I have read, and I am sure that I will read more. 

~~~~~~~

Why you will love this book:
🔥Reverse Grumpy x Sunshine 
🔥Slow burn
🔥Forced proximity 
🔥Found Family
🔥Small town 
🔥He falls first 
🔥Grief Journey
🔥Healing Arc
🔥Mystery
🔥Emotional, but uplifting 

Of Heather and Thistle is a slow-burn, heartfelt romance about second chances, self-discovery, and the unexpected places we find home. After a childhood shaped by loss and betrayal - a father who drowned his grief in liquor and a best friend who shattered her trust - Heather Mackenzie Campbell has spent years keeping her heart guarded and her roots shallow. So when she inherits her family's crumbling Scottish estate, Glenoran House, she sees it as nothing more than a burden. The plan is simple: fix it up, sell it, and leave Scotland behind for good.

But Glenoran isn't just a relic of the past. Its creaking walls whisper history and forgotten secrets of a past that refuses to stay buried. And then there's Flynn, the rugged, maddeningly charming contractor who seems determined to remind her that some things, some places, some people, are worth holding onto.

As Heather unearths hidden letters, lost artifacts, and the story of an ancestor who may have concealed something far more valuable than heirlooms, she realizes she's standing at a crossroads. She can keep running, return to the safety of the life she left behind, or she can stay and finally face all she's been avoiding - including how Flynn makes her feel.

But some things can't stay hidden forever, and the closer she gets to the truth, the harder it becomes to ignore what her heart has known all along.

@erinnmaxwellwrites
@theauthor.agency

[Alisha Cook · Rating 3 out of 5]

Of Heather And Thistle is a beautiful story about overcoming grief and finding yourself in the most unexpected of places. I love the premise and heart of this story. For me though, there were some shortcomings. There was a lot of repetition throughout the book, that made the story drag on for me. It caused a disconnect that I couldn’t get past and would’ve enjoyed the story so much more if that had been more cleanly polished.

I also couldn’t not get past the FMC’s wishy washy personality. It was a huge turn off for me. I understand that Heather was dealing with a lot from her grief to the fallout from her abuse, but I felt like a lot of her internal conflict was over the top and it just didn’t feel real for me.

I wanted to love this story but it just didn’t click for me. I think a lot of the problems I had with the story could have been avoided with more editing. There was a lot of repetition. A lot. I think of that would’ve been addressed, maybe I could’ve gotten past the character flaws I found in the FMC. Overall, I rated the book 3 out of 5 stars because while I didn’t hate the book, it wasn’t something I will probably ever read again.

Thank you to The Author Agency and Erinn Maxwell for the opportunity to read this book in its ARC form and for the free ebook. I am leaving this honest review voluntarily.

[Kasey · Rating 3 out of 5]

Of Heather and Thistle was a charming, heartfelt, and emotional contemporary romance set against the backdrop of history and lore. After her father’s passing, Heather discovers she’s the proud owner of a house in Scotland. Amidst a friendship breakup, she feels lonely and decides to embark on a journey to visit Scotland. There, she embarks on a self-discovery, makes new friends, settles into a new place, and potentially finds love.

I found this book to be an average read. It wasn’t particularly bad, but it wasn’t spectacular either. The biggest flaw was the slow pace of the setup to Scotland. It felt like she didn’t arrive until the 40% of the book, and once she did, it felt rushed. The rapid transitions between seasons made it difficult to connect with the characters. I yearned for more development between Heather and Flynn. Their chemistry felt superficial, and their relationship going to the next level felt sudden. Heather’s hesitation was also noticeable.

On the positive side, I thoroughly enjoyed the exquisite detail of Scotland and its rich history. Heather’s character development as she uncovers her true self was thrilling. She deserved everything after the hardships she endured with her family and friends. I cheered when she cut off her friend and set boundaries. The romance was endearing, but I felt it could have been more developed as the book concluded too quickly. Even the discovery of the possibility of a hidden treasure needed more exploration.

Overall, this was an emotionally charged and meticulously crafted story. I appreciate the author agency for providing me with an ARC.

[Priscilla Herchold · Rating 5 out of 5]

I. Flew. Through. This. Book.

Let me start off my saying some highland cows make an appearance and they may just be my favorite part of the book. It's really hard to beat the cows. They're just great.

Beyond that, Heather inherits a Scottish estate that is going to require a lot of renovating. Enter Flynn, our dashing Scot with a wealth of dry humor. There's a meet cute, a lot of great banter, and excellent character development for both of our main characters. Heather is dead set on fixing Glenoran House up and selling it off, but Flynn throws a wrench in her plans. So does Glenoran House with its secrets and its history.

Maxwell not only develops the characters; she builds Glenoran Estate as a real place for the reader and synthesizes Scottish history and mythology into the story arc as well. Scotland isn't just a setting for the plot; it becomes integral to the story. You can tell that Maxwell took the time to research in order to add the details in for the reader.

The fact that this is a debut is amazing, it's wonderful.

🔥Reverse Grumpy x Sunshine
🔥Slow burn
🔥Forced proximity
🔥Found Family
🔥Small town
🔥He falls first
🔥Grief Journey
🔥Healing Arc
🔥Mystery
🔥Emotional, but uplifting

Thank you to the author and The Author Agency for the gifted copy!

[Ryan Dobson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don’t usually read romance novels, but this one was a pleasant surprise. The story follows a young woman with a troubled upbringing who inherits a weathered mansion tucked deep in the Scottish countryside. What begins as a project to restore a crumbling estate becomes a quiet exploration of her own fractured history. The romance that develops with the contractor is slow, genuine, and grounded in shared purpose rather than cliché.

What really drew me in were the vivid, almost cinematic descriptions of Scotland. The author paints the hills, the shifting skies, and the mist around the loch with such care that you can almost smell the rain and peat smoke. The novel became a kind of escape—an invitation to wander through forgotten hallways and wild landscapes while the characters rebuilt something meaningful from what was broken.

At its core, the book isn’t just about falling in love. It’s about rebuilding trust, learning to live with the past, and realizing that happiness often grows quietly where you least expect it. The emotional depth and reflective tone made it feel more substantial than a typical romance.

[Cathe · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book felt like a warm, slow exhale — the kind of story that’s both a getaway and a quiet transformation. It transported me straight to the Scottish Highlands with its breathtaking setting, evocative writing, and beautifully layered characters.
Heather’s journey is one of grief, rediscovery, and unexpected love, and I adored how naturally her connection with Flynn unfolded. Their chemistry? Electric. Their banter? Chef’s kiss. And yes, I too now dream of being called mo chridhe. 💘
What stood out most was how emotionally grounded this romance was. It wasn’t rushed or overly dramatic — it was intimate, thoughtful, and surprisingly profound. Erinn Maxwell did such a fantastic job blending modern romance with rich Scottish history and atmosphere. It’s that perfect mix of cozy and compelling, ideal for fans of slow-burns with heart and depth.

[Bia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Of Heather and Thistle was such a heartfelt book. I loved it!

Seeing Heather's journey, as she navigated through her grief, wounds, fears and trauma into a place of hope and healing was moving. Her emotions and pain were written so well that I was able to connect with what she must be feeling like.

The cozy Scottish setting was so pleasant and comforting. And also loved how it all tied to Heather and helped her reconnect with her family.

My absolute favorite part: Flynn and Heather!!! I had been rooting for them all the way through and their banter and chemistry had me yearning for more of their scenes!

Overall, I'd say it was a really nice read that makes you ponder on growth, love and the courage it takes to leap forward. Would definitely recommend to people who enjoy slow burn romance!

[Chia · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you’re in the mood for a sweeping Highland romance that feels both atmospheric and deeply intimate, this story is a treat.

Erinn Maxwell draws us straight into the misty glens of Scotland with a heroine who is as strong as she is compassionate. The independent Heather at the heart of this tale isn’t afraid to stand her ground, even when fate pairs her with the brooding Flynn.

Their relationship builds in a gentle, slow-burn way that feels authentic: layered with trust, healing, and a hint of magic woven into the landscape itself. The village life, and touches of Highland mysticism create a cozy yet captivating world, making this a romance that feels like both an escape and a comfort read.

If you love romance with resilience, tenderness, and a dash of enchantment, this one will leave you glowing.

--
Thank you, The Author Agency for this ARC.

[PAMpublish · Rating 5 out of 5]

Most entertaining story about a young American woman who inherits a Scottish manse through her mother's estate. Having lost her at the age of nine, she is most affected by her alcoholic father's lack of parenting, not knowing of its existence until he passed away. Being controlled and deceived by her long-time girlfriend, she is ready for a change. Almost immediately, she bumps into Flynn when stranded, not knowing he would be the contractor for the long process of fixing up the manse. Clinking with their goals, her past keeps her from making any long-time commitments, not knowing if she planned to sell it or not. In the meantime, she comes across some valuable historical finds. Between the two, it helps her to make her decision. Presented in a most interesting way, despite a few explicit sensual scenes, this is recommended for anyone over 18 who enjoys an excellent read.

[Katherine · Rating 2 out of 5]

ARC review

This book focuses on a journey through history and finding oneself in that history. And along the way, learning how to let people (and maybe love) in. Think mystery of the past meets slow-burn romance.

I absolutely loved the banter between the MCs and I could not get enough of it. Add in the FMCs feline companion that gives her own opinions to any situation, and I found myself smiling.

I did, however, find myself confused and a bit flustered when it came to the first 60% of the book. The story was too much of a slow build for me.

I would recommend this book to anyone who loves a historical mystery with a side of slow-burn. So, if you're ready to uncover the secrets of the past while fighting your feelings for a sexy Scottish man, this is a book for you.

[Lilian · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5/5⭐️
Heather dreams of being as brave as Anne of Green Gables, and of being able to break the “chains” from her past. Her first step on this journey leads her to Inverness-shire, Scotland, to claim her inheritance.

What was meant to be a short trip soon turns into a longer one as she discovers more about herself, her mother’s past and the legacy of Glenoran House. A series of events also lead her to befriend hot contractor, Flynn, with their interactions bringing out her long-hidden true self and leading to amazing banter between them.

This book stands out from my usual reads, with history intertwined into the plot. While Heather’s journey was neither easy nor smooth, I promise you…. the end is so worth it.

[Wendy Livingstone · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a debut from this author, and she is certainly a name to look out for in the future.
Heather unexpectedly inherits a Scottish estate, and she hires local contractor Flynn to renovate it. Secrets and mysteries are revealed in the process. When the renovation in complete, Heather must decide to sell or stay where she found unexpected love.
This is a well written slow burn story, with found family, friendships, emotions, mystery, secrets, reverse grumpy / sunshine, forced proximity, loss, grief, humour, fun banter, self-discovery, healing, and love, which leads to an entertaining, small town contemporary romance.
I look forward to reading more from this author and I recommend this story.

[Haley R. · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great slow burn read that delivers coziness and mysterious fun.

This story definitely hits on the 'slow burn' love. A true portion of this book, in the beginning, will focus a lot on our FMC and the backstory/buildup of her life now. Don't let the pace fool you, because when their connection finally gives in, it's worth the wait! Truly, this was a fun and faced paced book. It was perfect in all the right places, and the author did a wonderful job really transporting you to Scotland and adding historical elements that I loved. This would be great for anyone looking for a fun love, heartwarming, good banter, spicy and cozy read.

[Extraspicybooklover · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow this book was like reading an emotional Scottish historical romance! 💝
Heathers life is full of grief and trauma and a horrible friend. She inherits her late mother’s house and fortune in Scotland. One she never knew about. After an excruciating fall out with her best friend she decides to escape and start over in Scotland. The house is a big undertaking and she jumps in head first. Only to realize it’s in her soul to stay. This slow burn was such a heart felt lovely book and heartbreaking in many ways too. I truly loved reading this 🥰

[Shyann Bierach · Rating 5 out of 5]

5/5 ⭐️
1/5 🌶️





WHAT YOU’LL FIND IN THE BOOK ;
🔥Reverse Grumpy x Sunshine 
🔥Slow burn
🔥Forced proximity 
🔥Found Family
🔥Small town 
🔥He falls first 
🔥Grief Journey
🔥Healing Arc
🔥Mystery
🔥Emotional, but uplifting













REVIEW ;
-Very cute book! Slow burn for sure. Definitely a fun easy read. In the begging you get a lot of Heather’s backstory & everything she went through to take her leap to go to Scotland. I loved the storyline of Heather & Flynn, they had great chemistry & great banter. Definitely recommend!