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Rowan Bay #1
A Scottish Christmas Hideaway
One snowy village. Two guarded hearts. A Christmas they’ll never forget.
After a year of burying her heartbreak in endless work, Jessica Stewart returns to her childhood home in the Scottish village of Rowan Bay. She hopes the Christmas lights and familiar faces will help her rediscover the woman she used to be.
She doesn’t expect Reuben Campbell.
Once her brother’s infuriating best friend — the boy who teased her endlessly — Reuben is now a ruggedly handsome architect with an easy charm. And he’s suddenly everywhere Jessica turns.
As the village prepares for Christmas, Jessica and Reuben find themselves sharing frost-bitten walks, fairy-lit evenings and gingerbread house disasters. The spark between them is impossible to ignore and Reuben’s steady presence begins to melt the walls Jessica has spent so long building.
But Jessica came home to escape complications — and Reuben, for all his warmth, is hiding heartbreak and secrets of his own.
As Christmas approaches can two people with every reason to resist each other finally give in to a second chance neither saw coming?
After a year of burying her heartbreak in endless work, Jessica Stewart returns to her childhood home in the Scottish village of Rowan Bay. She hopes the Christmas lights and familiar faces will help her rediscover the woman she used to be.
She doesn’t expect Reuben Campbell.
Once her brother’s infuriating best friend — the boy who teased her endlessly — Reuben is now a ruggedly handsome architect with an easy charm. And he’s suddenly everywhere Jessica turns.
As the village prepares for Christmas, Jessica and Reuben find themselves sharing frost-bitten walks, fairy-lit evenings and gingerbread house disasters. The spark between them is impossible to ignore and Reuben’s steady presence begins to melt the walls Jessica has spent so long building.
But Jessica came home to escape complications — and Reuben, for all his warmth, is hiding heartbreak and secrets of his own.
As Christmas approaches can two people with every reason to resist each other finally give in to a second chance neither saw coming?
280 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 1, 2025
506 people are currently reading
395 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 101 reviews
September 12, 2025
This pains me to say because Christmas books have always been my favourite, but I didn't really enjoy this..
It completely missed the mark for me and there's no one more sad about it than me..
Jessica is a lawyer in London nearing burnout, which is why she's forced to take an extended leave. She comes back home, to Rowan Bay, a small village in Scotland. She needs rest and peace, but what she doesn't need is her brother's annoying best friend next door. Reuben is there renovating his cottage and they keep running into each other. Sparks start flying, but both of them have been hurt, so acting on those feelings might not be a good idea.. or it could be best one yet...
I loved the setting, it's Scotland, how could you not love it. The village was so cozy and festive and I really liked the atmosphere.
Jessica was struggling with an event that greatly impacted her life and I liked seeing her come to terms with everything and get her old self back. Her love of baking really shone trough and I loved how she was with Gillian and Struan.
Reuben was badly hurt, but he was always kind. Some of his actions were a little hasty and without a thought though.
I really liked Jessica's family, they were great, especially Lexi, she was adorable.
The romance between Jessica and Reuben was slow and not without bumps, but I'm glad they found the happiness they deserved. But, in all honesty, I didn't feel the connection at all. It felt bland and without emotions.. And the miscommunication ruined it completely.. I wish I loved their story, but I really couldn't..
I didn't enjoy the writing style at all.. I really tried, but I couldn't get into it, it was honestly a chore to finish it.. Maybe it's me, but I didn't feel connected to any part of the story. I hate being disappointed, especially in Christmas stories, but this really wasn't a book for me.
*Thank you to Netgalley and to Joffe Books for providing me with an ARC.*
It completely missed the mark for me and there's no one more sad about it than me..
Jessica is a lawyer in London nearing burnout, which is why she's forced to take an extended leave. She comes back home, to Rowan Bay, a small village in Scotland. She needs rest and peace, but what she doesn't need is her brother's annoying best friend next door. Reuben is there renovating his cottage and they keep running into each other. Sparks start flying, but both of them have been hurt, so acting on those feelings might not be a good idea.. or it could be best one yet...
I loved the setting, it's Scotland, how could you not love it. The village was so cozy and festive and I really liked the atmosphere.
Jessica was struggling with an event that greatly impacted her life and I liked seeing her come to terms with everything and get her old self back. Her love of baking really shone trough and I loved how she was with Gillian and Struan.
Reuben was badly hurt, but he was always kind. Some of his actions were a little hasty and without a thought though.
I really liked Jessica's family, they were great, especially Lexi, she was adorable.
The romance between Jessica and Reuben was slow and not without bumps, but I'm glad they found the happiness they deserved. But, in all honesty, I didn't feel the connection at all. It felt bland and without emotions.. And the miscommunication ruined it completely.. I wish I loved their story, but I really couldn't..
I didn't enjoy the writing style at all.. I really tried, but I couldn't get into it, it was honestly a chore to finish it.. Maybe it's me, but I didn't feel connected to any part of the story. I hate being disappointed, especially in Christmas stories, but this really wasn't a book for me.
*Thank you to Netgalley and to Joffe Books for providing me with an ARC.*
September 9, 2025
I received a free copy of, A Scottish Christmas Hideaway, by Ellie Henderson, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. This book is the first book in the Rowan Bay series. Jessica Stewart is headed home for the holidays, single, and a little broken hearted. Christmas is here and Jessica is home and so is Reuben, will sparks fly? I enjoyed this holiday story.
September 24, 2025
If there has ever been a cute European Christmas story, rest assured- I want to read it.
This was a pretty short, simple and cute holiday read.
As many Christmas books do, it gives all of those cozy Hallmark vibes and transports you to a better time. (One with hot chocolate and seasonal sweets).
I can always appreciate a good setting, and this had that.
You have to love the Scottish vibes, and I got a giggle out of the amount of times the characters used the word “wee” instead of small.
I’m easily entertained! What can I say?
I liked the female main character, Jessica.
We start out off the story knowing that she is going through a really difficult time at work, and is having some personal problems- which do not get clarified until later in the story.
When I did find out what the personal problems were? I was a little surprised. It was heavier than I expected, and it just kept getting worse!
This brought a lot of depth into the story though, and gave me the occasional boost of energy when I learned something new. So, yay for that.
As for the romance aspect, it was decent! It is a slow burn, brothers best-friend trope.
Jessica and Ruben aren’t bad together, but I wasn’t to connect with Ruben’s character as much.
I am empathetic toward his whole situation, but I didn’t find him as interesting or as exciting as Jessica.
I think how much I liked her character made up for it though, so I was still rooting for them.
I will say I felt a little bit of repetition- particularly around the discussion of Jessica’s niece.
She doesn’t enter the story until probably around the 70% mark, but I felt like she was mentioned on every other page from the first chapter onwards.
It feels like trying to fill up space in what is already a fairly short book.
With this being said, I don’t think that it is a very big deal. In fact, I would say most people probably won’t care, won’t notice, or perhaps even find it endearing.
It just happens to be a little book pet peeve of mine, which is why it stuck out to me.
Overall, a very cute and quick read for the holidays, with some romance and lots of warm family vibes.
Thank you to Netgalley, Joffe Books and author Ellie Henderson for providing me with the eARC of “A Scottish Christmas Hideaway”, in exchange for my honest review!
Publication date: October 08, 2025
This was a pretty short, simple and cute holiday read.
As many Christmas books do, it gives all of those cozy Hallmark vibes and transports you to a better time. (One with hot chocolate and seasonal sweets).
I can always appreciate a good setting, and this had that.
You have to love the Scottish vibes, and I got a giggle out of the amount of times the characters used the word “wee” instead of small.
I’m easily entertained! What can I say?
I liked the female main character, Jessica.
We start out off the story knowing that she is going through a really difficult time at work, and is having some personal problems- which do not get clarified until later in the story.
When I did find out what the personal problems were? I was a little surprised. It was heavier than I expected, and it just kept getting worse!
This brought a lot of depth into the story though, and gave me the occasional boost of energy when I learned something new. So, yay for that.
As for the romance aspect, it was decent! It is a slow burn, brothers best-friend trope.
Jessica and Ruben aren’t bad together, but I wasn’t to connect with Ruben’s character as much.
I am empathetic toward his whole situation, but I didn’t find him as interesting or as exciting as Jessica.
I think how much I liked her character made up for it though, so I was still rooting for them.
I will say I felt a little bit of repetition- particularly around the discussion of Jessica’s niece.
She doesn’t enter the story until probably around the 70% mark, but I felt like she was mentioned on every other page from the first chapter onwards.
It feels like trying to fill up space in what is already a fairly short book.
With this being said, I don’t think that it is a very big deal. In fact, I would say most people probably won’t care, won’t notice, or perhaps even find it endearing.
It just happens to be a little book pet peeve of mine, which is why it stuck out to me.
Overall, a very cute and quick read for the holidays, with some romance and lots of warm family vibes.
Thank you to Netgalley, Joffe Books and author Ellie Henderson for providing me with the eARC of “A Scottish Christmas Hideaway”, in exchange for my honest review!
Publication date: October 08, 2025
December 14, 2025
Unfortunately, I just didn't love this one like I thought I would. The heroine goes home after being burnt out and forced to take a break from work as a lawyer. Her family was cute, but the story definitely dragged and the romance relied on a lot of miscommunication. The cute setting wasn't enough to save the rest of the story for me.
September 6, 2025
My Rating: 4⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Sweet, cosy and Christmassy!!
Jessica returns home after a year of heartbreak and burnout, she is there to spend time with her beloved mum and dad in her Scottish Hometown of Rowan Bay. What she finds is Reuben Campbell her brothers childhood best friend, the annoying boy who used to tease her at school.
Reuben is now grown up and Jess is finding herself more and more attracted to him to her annoyance. As Christmas approaches can two people with every reason to resist each other finally give in to a second change neither saw coming?
This was a very sweet and clean RomCom, I liked the story and the setting. It wasn’t the best one I have read and there isn’t much comedy in it but its very sweet. It is extremely closed door with only the hint of things that happened and the mention of a kiss or two. Its actually very nice.
I liked the Scottish setting and the characters were sweet and there wasn’t a lot of will they wont they… but there was some of course it is mandatory after all.
I dont really have any bad words to say about it… the writing was very basic and straight forward and the story promised a sweet Christmas love story and it delivered.
If you are after a clean and cute cosy Christmas romance this might be for you. Don’t expect literally brilliance but it will make you smile.
Thank you to Joffe Books, NetGalley and the author for an advanced copy.
Jessica returns home after a year of heartbreak and burnout, she is there to spend time with her beloved mum and dad in her Scottish Hometown of Rowan Bay. What she finds is Reuben Campbell her brothers childhood best friend, the annoying boy who used to tease her at school.
Reuben is now grown up and Jess is finding herself more and more attracted to him to her annoyance. As Christmas approaches can two people with every reason to resist each other finally give in to a second change neither saw coming?
This was a very sweet and clean RomCom, I liked the story and the setting. It wasn’t the best one I have read and there isn’t much comedy in it but its very sweet. It is extremely closed door with only the hint of things that happened and the mention of a kiss or two. Its actually very nice.
I liked the Scottish setting and the characters were sweet and there wasn’t a lot of will they wont they… but there was some of course it is mandatory after all.
I dont really have any bad words to say about it… the writing was very basic and straight forward and the story promised a sweet Christmas love story and it delivered.
If you are after a clean and cute cosy Christmas romance this might be for you. Don’t expect literally brilliance but it will make you smile.
Thank you to Joffe Books, NetGalley and the author for an advanced copy.
September 3, 2025
Jessica is burnt out and heartbroken when she returns to her hometown in Scotland. She wants this mandatory vacation to be a reset so she can go back to the law firm with more energy and patience for her clients. The only issue is Ruben; her brother’s best friend. As luck would have it, Ruben is now a handsome architect she can’t stop running into in their small village. It was almost like it was meant to be. They grow quite close with mutual feelings with the only setback being- the potential long-distance relationship or will of them make the move to be with the other.
I am a summer girl, with winter being my least favorite season, but this book has me looking forward to more cozy holiday reads! I love the setting of Londen then Scotland, and the way Jessica stopped worrying about work and started to feel like herself again. Her love for baking and getting into the holiday spirit was also fun to read.
If you are looking for holiday books to read this season you won’t want to miss this one. It’s full of fun family, holiday vibes, and an undeniable chemistry.
I am a summer girl, with winter being my least favorite season, but this book has me looking forward to more cozy holiday reads! I love the setting of Londen then Scotland, and the way Jessica stopped worrying about work and started to feel like herself again. Her love for baking and getting into the holiday spirit was also fun to read.
If you are looking for holiday books to read this season you won’t want to miss this one. It’s full of fun family, holiday vibes, and an undeniable chemistry.
December 1, 2025
After suffering heartbreak and burying herself in work for the past year, Jessica has burnt out, so she returns to spend Christmas with her family in the Scottish Village of Rowan Bay. Hopeful that the familiar sights and sounds will help her return to her normal self, Jessica doesn’t count on her brother’s best friend Reuben being everywhere she goes. Soon the sparks begin to fly and their attraction to each other is impossible to ignore.
This was a lovely, simple read. As with many of the festive books, this had all the markings of a Hallmark Christmas movie, which I enjoyed.
I liked the FMC Jessica, who we know from the outset is suffering from personal problems. When we find out what those problems were, they were a little heavier than I was expecting for a Christmas book, but it did bring added depth to the story.
Overall, this was a cute read for the festive season, with warm family vibes and a touch of romance.
This was a lovely, simple read. As with many of the festive books, this had all the markings of a Hallmark Christmas movie, which I enjoyed.
I liked the FMC Jessica, who we know from the outset is suffering from personal problems. When we find out what those problems were, they were a little heavier than I was expecting for a Christmas book, but it did bring added depth to the story.
Overall, this was a cute read for the festive season, with warm family vibes and a touch of romance.
December 14, 2025
I read this book in a days worth of long haul flights which you would think meant I liked it but I just didn’t.
September 24, 2025
This Christmas story was cute.
I can’t really say more, i love Christmas stories and do read a lot of them.
This one didn’t grab me like I wished/ hoped it would.
Still had a good time reading.
Some of the plot points felt a bit off.
Jessica is heartbroken she had a hard year.
Ruben is het brothers best friend, he also had a hard year.
It felt by giving them both, in a way, the same back story their love story felt out of reach, and didn’t grow in the potential it could’ve been.
It’s set in Scotland in a really cute small town where everyone knows each other. (Bonus points.)
With a lovely bakery connecting with old friends and finding yourself back again.
Like I said it is a cute story.
Personally it didn’t give me the warm fuzzy feelings a Christmas story brings.
But that doesn’t mean it can bring you these warm fuzzy Christmas feelings.
It has some amazing tropes, reads easy and it feels like a complete story.
Thankyou Netgalley for providing me with an ARC of this book.
I can’t really say more, i love Christmas stories and do read a lot of them.
This one didn’t grab me like I wished/ hoped it would.
Still had a good time reading.
Some of the plot points felt a bit off.
Jessica is heartbroken she had a hard year.
Ruben is het brothers best friend, he also had a hard year.
It felt by giving them both, in a way, the same back story their love story felt out of reach, and didn’t grow in the potential it could’ve been.
It’s set in Scotland in a really cute small town where everyone knows each other. (Bonus points.)
With a lovely bakery connecting with old friends and finding yourself back again.
Like I said it is a cute story.
Personally it didn’t give me the warm fuzzy feelings a Christmas story brings.
But that doesn’t mean it can bring you these warm fuzzy Christmas feelings.
It has some amazing tropes, reads easy and it feels like a complete story.
Thankyou Netgalley for providing me with an ARC of this book.
October 6, 2025
Welcome to Rowan Bay! What a beautiful and magical story. It ticks all my Christmas story boxes! I loved the concept, and it was such a joy to read. The cover is stunning and I love the colours. It screams festive, cosy vibes! Wonderful job. The writing is gorgeous and flows perfectly. A few wee Scottish colloquialisms here and there, but they work in the story. The setting is stunning. The views around Loch Lomond are picturesque. This little fictional village is no exception! Ellie, the Irn Bru scented candles were perfect. I hope they are real and I can find one!! The characters were perfect and they fitted in beautifully. I loved the entire Stewart clan and Reuben. Jessica's mum, Catriona, was definitely a perfect Scottish mammy. I adored her. I without doubt recommend this and can't wait for a return visit to Rowan Bay. Haste ye back!
October 19, 2025
A Scottish Christmas Hideaway by Ellie Henderson
🌟🌟🌟🌟
A christmasy love story, what's not to like??!!
When Jessica falls for Tim whilst working in London, she never dreamt that her life would fall apart. Not turning up for a date night, opens a whole new world she didnt know existed for Tim
On the verge if a breakdown, she reaches out to those who like her - her family
Off to spend Christmas with them, she soons falls into hime comforts. Meeting old school friends, especially Ruben, she realises life isn't too bad in Scotland. Will she be able to have her "happy ever after"??
A lovely cozy Christmas read
🌟🌟🌟🌟
A christmasy love story, what's not to like??!!
When Jessica falls for Tim whilst working in London, she never dreamt that her life would fall apart. Not turning up for a date night, opens a whole new world she didnt know existed for Tim
On the verge if a breakdown, she reaches out to those who like her - her family
Off to spend Christmas with them, she soons falls into hime comforts. Meeting old school friends, especially Ruben, she realises life isn't too bad in Scotland. Will she be able to have her "happy ever after"??
A lovely cozy Christmas read
December 23, 2025
a cute read but it’s very “tell not show” and I didn’t really connect with the characters. but still a cute holiday book
September 22, 2025
Jessica Stewart is not okay. She’s not full breakdown-in-a-bathroom-stall levels of unwell, but she’s close. After a year of grief and burnout, she’s taken a leave from her London legal job to regroup in Rowan Bay, the kind of Scottish village that practically hums with fairy lights and emotional reset energy. She’s hoping for peace, maybe a little joy, and ideally zero run-ins with the past.
Enter Reuben. Her brother’s childhood best friend. Once the boy who knew exactly how to push her buttons, now the man who seems to show up at all the worst-best possible moments. He’s an architect fixing up a nearby cottage, and because this is a small town, their paths keep crossing. There’s no grand romantic declaration here, no swooping gestures. Just time. Familiarity. And those quiet moments where you suddenly realize you don’t feel quite so hollow anymore.
A Scottish Christmas Hideaway leans into the cozy without smothering you in it. It’s second-chance romance wrapped in seasonal softness. Jessica isn’t back in town for some rom-com reinvention. She’s grieving. Healing. Trying to remember who she was before everything cracked open. And Rowan Bay, with its friendly neighbors and slow rhythms, gives her space to do that.
Reuben is part of that space. He’s not lurking or love-bombing or aggressively flirting. He’s just there. Calm. Steady. And more layered than Jessica remembers. Their connection builds slowly, sometimes frustratingly so, but there’s tenderness in the way it unfolds. This isn’t a couple falling headfirst into lust. It’s two people figuring out if there’s room for love after loss. And honestly, that hits deeper.
The romance is quieter than some might expect. If you like your holiday reads with spice and snark, this might feel too mild. But if you love a good emotional slow burn, something that feels more real than flashy, Jessica and Reuben’s story delivers. There’s a moment involving gingerbread that is less plot twist, more seasonal chaos, and it fits perfectly with the tone of the book. Not dramatic, just real life with icing sugar.
The setting is a whole character on its own. Rowan Bay is charming without being cloying. Think festive markets, snow-dusted mornings, and warm kitchens filled with people who care. The found-family feel is strong, especially with Jessica reconnecting to people she hasn’t let in for a long time. Her story is as much about reclaiming community as it is about romance, and that balance works.
What I loved most was how Jessica is allowed to be quiet. Not performatively broken, not frantically trying to fix herself. Just... tired. Wounded. And slowly willing to hope again. That emotional honesty gives the book its weight. 3.5 stars for a comforting, wintry read that doesn’t rush the healing. Perfect for when you want cozy with a side of real-life ache.
Merry Mayhem Prize: For Softening My Cold Dead Heart One Snowy Walk at a Time
Huge thanks to Joffe Books and NetGalley for the ARC of A Scottish Christmas Hideaway. I requested cozy and emotionally compromised, and you really said, “Here’s a grieving lawyer, a cinnamon-sweet architect, and a snow-covered village full of feelings. Good luck.”
Enter Reuben. Her brother’s childhood best friend. Once the boy who knew exactly how to push her buttons, now the man who seems to show up at all the worst-best possible moments. He’s an architect fixing up a nearby cottage, and because this is a small town, their paths keep crossing. There’s no grand romantic declaration here, no swooping gestures. Just time. Familiarity. And those quiet moments where you suddenly realize you don’t feel quite so hollow anymore.
A Scottish Christmas Hideaway leans into the cozy without smothering you in it. It’s second-chance romance wrapped in seasonal softness. Jessica isn’t back in town for some rom-com reinvention. She’s grieving. Healing. Trying to remember who she was before everything cracked open. And Rowan Bay, with its friendly neighbors and slow rhythms, gives her space to do that.
Reuben is part of that space. He’s not lurking or love-bombing or aggressively flirting. He’s just there. Calm. Steady. And more layered than Jessica remembers. Their connection builds slowly, sometimes frustratingly so, but there’s tenderness in the way it unfolds. This isn’t a couple falling headfirst into lust. It’s two people figuring out if there’s room for love after loss. And honestly, that hits deeper.
The romance is quieter than some might expect. If you like your holiday reads with spice and snark, this might feel too mild. But if you love a good emotional slow burn, something that feels more real than flashy, Jessica and Reuben’s story delivers. There’s a moment involving gingerbread that is less plot twist, more seasonal chaos, and it fits perfectly with the tone of the book. Not dramatic, just real life with icing sugar.
The setting is a whole character on its own. Rowan Bay is charming without being cloying. Think festive markets, snow-dusted mornings, and warm kitchens filled with people who care. The found-family feel is strong, especially with Jessica reconnecting to people she hasn’t let in for a long time. Her story is as much about reclaiming community as it is about romance, and that balance works.
What I loved most was how Jessica is allowed to be quiet. Not performatively broken, not frantically trying to fix herself. Just... tired. Wounded. And slowly willing to hope again. That emotional honesty gives the book its weight. 3.5 stars for a comforting, wintry read that doesn’t rush the healing. Perfect for when you want cozy with a side of real-life ache.
Merry Mayhem Prize: For Softening My Cold Dead Heart One Snowy Walk at a Time
Huge thanks to Joffe Books and NetGalley for the ARC of A Scottish Christmas Hideaway. I requested cozy and emotionally compromised, and you really said, “Here’s a grieving lawyer, a cinnamon-sweet architect, and a snow-covered village full of feelings. Good luck.”
October 15, 2025
Here is my review for A Scottish Christmas Hideaway by Ellie Henderson
I found this to be one of those romance stories that was so easy to get into right from the very start of the book. Jessica is the main female character with the failed love life with a broken heart plus burnout at work and her character is written brilliantly. It’s great to see the transformation that happens when she is home in Rowan Bay with her parents and how she fits back in with village life. Then there is Reuben and what is happening between them which keeps taunting you and them. It’s a great brother’s best friend romance and he’s well liked by the family plus well known and helpful around the village. I truly enjoyed this endearing romance story which had me so riveted I couldn’t put the book down as I was enjoying it so much. I found it to be a quick read. The chapters seemed quite short which I liked. I liked the sound of this village and the people that live there as they sound really friendly plus the shops sound really great too. I look forward to the next book in the series of Rowan Bay.
Blurb :
❄️ Brother’s best friend
❄️ Second-chance
❄️ Small-town
❄️ Friends-to-lovers
❄️ Christmas romance
❄️ Found-family
One snowy village. Two guarded hearts. A Christmas they’ll never forget.
After a year of burying her heartbreak in endless work, Jessica Stewart returns to her childhood home in the Scottish village of Rowan Bay. She hopes the Christmas lights and familiar faces will help her rediscover the woman she used to be.
She doesn’t expect Reuben Campbell.
Once her brother’s infuriating best friend, and the boy who teased her endlessly, Reuben is now a ruggedly handsome architect with an easy charm. And he’s suddenly everywhere Jessica turns.
As the village prepares for Christmas, Jessica and Reuben find themselves picking out the perfect Christmas tree, attending the festive light switch-on and avoiding gingerbread house disasters. The spark between them is undeniable, and Reuben’s steady, warm presence slowly begins to melt the walls Jessica has spent so long building.
But Jessica came home to escape complications — and Reuben, for all his warmth, is hiding heartbreak and secrets of his own.
As Christmas approaches can two people with every reason to resist each other finally give in to a second chance neither saw coming?
This festive uplifting, feel-good, Christmas romance is perfect for fans of Sarah Morgan, Cressida McLaughlin, Phillipa Ashley, Cathy Bramley, Mandy Baggot, Emma Bennet and Heidi Swain.
I found this to be one of those romance stories that was so easy to get into right from the very start of the book. Jessica is the main female character with the failed love life with a broken heart plus burnout at work and her character is written brilliantly. It’s great to see the transformation that happens when she is home in Rowan Bay with her parents and how she fits back in with village life. Then there is Reuben and what is happening between them which keeps taunting you and them. It’s a great brother’s best friend romance and he’s well liked by the family plus well known and helpful around the village. I truly enjoyed this endearing romance story which had me so riveted I couldn’t put the book down as I was enjoying it so much. I found it to be a quick read. The chapters seemed quite short which I liked. I liked the sound of this village and the people that live there as they sound really friendly plus the shops sound really great too. I look forward to the next book in the series of Rowan Bay.
Blurb :
❄️ Brother’s best friend
❄️ Second-chance
❄️ Small-town
❄️ Friends-to-lovers
❄️ Christmas romance
❄️ Found-family
One snowy village. Two guarded hearts. A Christmas they’ll never forget.
After a year of burying her heartbreak in endless work, Jessica Stewart returns to her childhood home in the Scottish village of Rowan Bay. She hopes the Christmas lights and familiar faces will help her rediscover the woman she used to be.
She doesn’t expect Reuben Campbell.
Once her brother’s infuriating best friend, and the boy who teased her endlessly, Reuben is now a ruggedly handsome architect with an easy charm. And he’s suddenly everywhere Jessica turns.
As the village prepares for Christmas, Jessica and Reuben find themselves picking out the perfect Christmas tree, attending the festive light switch-on and avoiding gingerbread house disasters. The spark between them is undeniable, and Reuben’s steady, warm presence slowly begins to melt the walls Jessica has spent so long building.
But Jessica came home to escape complications — and Reuben, for all his warmth, is hiding heartbreak and secrets of his own.
As Christmas approaches can two people with every reason to resist each other finally give in to a second chance neither saw coming?
This festive uplifting, feel-good, Christmas romance is perfect for fans of Sarah Morgan, Cressida McLaughlin, Phillipa Ashley, Cathy Bramley, Mandy Baggot, Emma Bennet and Heidi Swain.
October 24, 2025
Last year Christmas was not at all what Jessica Stewart expected. She buried herself in work to forget what happened. When she gets a friendly reminder that it might be best when she uses her piled up holiday to get a break from work she returns to Scotland to her childhood home.
Reuben Campbell is her brother’s best friend. He is renovating his old childhood home which suits him after the separation from his wife.
Soon both get to know the grown up version of each other, learn more about und soon the spark between them can´t be ignored any longer.
Both had a not so good Christmas last year. Are they ready to open their hearts again and have this year a wonderful Christmas?
The writing is nice and you get easily into the story.
I really loved the Scottish setting and the Christmas flair in the story.
You thing this is s simple cosy romance but some tragic things are put into the story. For me it wasn't necessary in the plot and it bothered me.
We start that something happened last year Christmas which put Jessica off. It took quite some time till you got the info what really happened and for me it was king of blown out of proportion.
Jessica is at a boiling point due to what happened and all the stress at work. Being back home bit by bit she is changing, figuring out what makes here happy. This is good written.
Reuben is nicely described. He and his wife are separated and he is figuring out what to do with his life in future.
Both know each other since they are kids and it is nice how they get to know each other yet as grownups.
Their lack of communication or better the misunderstanding when they interpret heard things the wrong way is typical in books like this but I would have liked the story much more if this would have been avoided.
The family dynamic in Jessica´s family is good written and also the other characters in town are nice.
Reuben Campbell is her brother’s best friend. He is renovating his old childhood home which suits him after the separation from his wife.
Soon both get to know the grown up version of each other, learn more about und soon the spark between them can´t be ignored any longer.
Both had a not so good Christmas last year. Are they ready to open their hearts again and have this year a wonderful Christmas?
The writing is nice and you get easily into the story.
I really loved the Scottish setting and the Christmas flair in the story.
You thing this is s simple cosy romance but some tragic things are put into the story. For me it wasn't necessary in the plot and it bothered me.
We start that something happened last year Christmas which put Jessica off. It took quite some time till you got the info what really happened and for me it was king of blown out of proportion.
Jessica is at a boiling point due to what happened and all the stress at work. Being back home bit by bit she is changing, figuring out what makes here happy. This is good written.
Reuben is nicely described. He and his wife are separated and he is figuring out what to do with his life in future.
Both know each other since they are kids and it is nice how they get to know each other yet as grownups.
Their lack of communication or better the misunderstanding when they interpret heard things the wrong way is typical in books like this but I would have liked the story much more if this would have been avoided.
The family dynamic in Jessica´s family is good written and also the other characters in town are nice.
September 22, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for eARC in exchange for a honest review :)
After a year of burying her heartbreak in endless work, Jessica Stewart returns to her childhood home in the Scottish village of Rowan Bay. She’s hoping the familiar Christmas lights and warm faces will help her heal, but she doesn’t expect to run into Reuben Campbell - her brother’s old best friend, once a teasing nuisance, now a ruggedly handsome architect. As the two are thrown together in the festive season, sparks begin to fly but both Jessica and Reuben are carrying heartbreak and secrets that could keep them apart.
I really wanted to love this story, and in some ways, I did. The setting was by far the best part. The descriptions of Scotland were absolutely beautiful, so picturesque that I could vividly imagine Rowan Bay. I also adored Jessica’s family. They were warm, supportive, and added a lovely coziness to the story that felt perfect for a Christmas romance.
Unfortunately, there were several aspects that didn’t work for me. I didn’t feel a real connection to either the characters or the plot. Everything felt a little flat, like a straight line without highs or lows. The chemistry between Jessica and Reuben didn’t land for me either, and I often found their interactions (and even those with side characters) filled with a bit too much meaningless chatter. And while I understand “wee” is part of the Scottish charm, the overuse of it really started to grate on me after a while.
Overall, A Scottish Christmas Hideaway had a beautiful setting and heartwarming family dynamics, but the romance and character connections left me wanting more.
After a year of burying her heartbreak in endless work, Jessica Stewart returns to her childhood home in the Scottish village of Rowan Bay. She’s hoping the familiar Christmas lights and warm faces will help her heal, but she doesn’t expect to run into Reuben Campbell - her brother’s old best friend, once a teasing nuisance, now a ruggedly handsome architect. As the two are thrown together in the festive season, sparks begin to fly but both Jessica and Reuben are carrying heartbreak and secrets that could keep them apart.
I really wanted to love this story, and in some ways, I did. The setting was by far the best part. The descriptions of Scotland were absolutely beautiful, so picturesque that I could vividly imagine Rowan Bay. I also adored Jessica’s family. They were warm, supportive, and added a lovely coziness to the story that felt perfect for a Christmas romance.
Unfortunately, there were several aspects that didn’t work for me. I didn’t feel a real connection to either the characters or the plot. Everything felt a little flat, like a straight line without highs or lows. The chemistry between Jessica and Reuben didn’t land for me either, and I often found their interactions (and even those with side characters) filled with a bit too much meaningless chatter. And while I understand “wee” is part of the Scottish charm, the overuse of it really started to grate on me after a while.
Overall, A Scottish Christmas Hideaway had a beautiful setting and heartwarming family dynamics, but the romance and character connections left me wanting more.
September 4, 2025
A Scottish Christmas Hideaway
by Ellie Henderson
After a tumultuous year spent drowning her heartbreak in long hours at work, Jessica Stewart returns to her childhood home nestled in the picturesque Scottish village of Rowan Bay. As she drives through familiar winding roads lined with snow-dusted fir trees, she hopes that the twinkling Christmas lights adorning the quaint cottages and the warm smiles of familiar faces will help reignite the joy she once cherished.
Upon arriving, Jessica unexpectedly runs into Reuben, her brother's best friend, who is diligently restoring a charming his formere childhood weathered cottage just a few doors down from her parents' home. He is preparing it for her brother, who, along with his family, is making the long journey from Australia to spend the festive season in their snowy homeland. Reuben's presence brings a mix of nostalgia and excitement, stirring up feelings from the past that Jessica thought she had buried.
As snowflakes gently fall around them, these two childhood enemies find themselves reconnecting, sharing laughter, and reminiscing about their shared history in Rowan Bay. This heartwarming tale unfolds amidst the vibrant scenery of a Scottish winter, filled with holiday traditions, delicious treats, and the rekindling of old bonds. It promises to be a delightful and cozy read that will undoubtedly capture your heart as Jessica embarks on a journey of self-discovery during this magical season.
by Ellie Henderson
After a tumultuous year spent drowning her heartbreak in long hours at work, Jessica Stewart returns to her childhood home nestled in the picturesque Scottish village of Rowan Bay. As she drives through familiar winding roads lined with snow-dusted fir trees, she hopes that the twinkling Christmas lights adorning the quaint cottages and the warm smiles of familiar faces will help reignite the joy she once cherished.
Upon arriving, Jessica unexpectedly runs into Reuben, her brother's best friend, who is diligently restoring a charming his formere childhood weathered cottage just a few doors down from her parents' home. He is preparing it for her brother, who, along with his family, is making the long journey from Australia to spend the festive season in their snowy homeland. Reuben's presence brings a mix of nostalgia and excitement, stirring up feelings from the past that Jessica thought she had buried.
As snowflakes gently fall around them, these two childhood enemies find themselves reconnecting, sharing laughter, and reminiscing about their shared history in Rowan Bay. This heartwarming tale unfolds amidst the vibrant scenery of a Scottish winter, filled with holiday traditions, delicious treats, and the rekindling of old bonds. It promises to be a delightful and cozy read that will undoubtedly capture your heart as Jessica embarks on a journey of self-discovery during this magical season.
October 13, 2025
What an absolutely gorgeous start to the Rowan Bay series! I fell head over heels for this book within a few pages and genuinely did not want it to end.
Jessica’s return to Rowan Bay is meant to be a quiet escape from heartbreak, but the moment Reuben Campbell steps back into her world… well, let’s just say the snow isn’t the only thing melting. Childhood teasing, unspoken history, and that delicious slow-burn tension – all wrapped up in twinkly lights, small-town charm and festive chaos.
Reuben is exactly the kind of hero I adore: rugged, kind, and quietly wounded. Watching the walls between him and Jessica crumble through gingerbread disasters, frosty walks and unexpected sparks was pure joy. Their second-chance/friends-to-lovers arc hit every emotional beat without ever feeling heavy.
And the setting? Utter perfection. Rowan Bay feels like the kind of Scottish village you’d move to “for a week” and never leave. Cosy, close-knit, and full of found-family warmth – I already want to book a cabin and stay there until spring.
I loved the characters, I loved the heart, and I loved how the festive atmosphere wrapped everything in that magical Christmas glow without losing the emotional depth. If this is book one, I’m already itching for the rest of the series.
A beautiful, comforting, small-town Christmas romance that gave me everything I look for this time of year. Absolutely five stars.
Jessica’s return to Rowan Bay is meant to be a quiet escape from heartbreak, but the moment Reuben Campbell steps back into her world… well, let’s just say the snow isn’t the only thing melting. Childhood teasing, unspoken history, and that delicious slow-burn tension – all wrapped up in twinkly lights, small-town charm and festive chaos.
Reuben is exactly the kind of hero I adore: rugged, kind, and quietly wounded. Watching the walls between him and Jessica crumble through gingerbread disasters, frosty walks and unexpected sparks was pure joy. Their second-chance/friends-to-lovers arc hit every emotional beat without ever feeling heavy.
And the setting? Utter perfection. Rowan Bay feels like the kind of Scottish village you’d move to “for a week” and never leave. Cosy, close-knit, and full of found-family warmth – I already want to book a cabin and stay there until spring.
I loved the characters, I loved the heart, and I loved how the festive atmosphere wrapped everything in that magical Christmas glow without losing the emotional depth. If this is book one, I’m already itching for the rest of the series.
A beautiful, comforting, small-town Christmas romance that gave me everything I look for this time of year. Absolutely five stars.
October 2, 2025
A heartwarming romance set on the bonnie banks of Loch Lomond.
Jessica Stewart is a high flying lawyer working in London. She has tried unsuccessfully to heal her broken heart by working all hours at her job as a corporate lawyer. Her work has suffered, she has made mistakes, and an important client has made unwanted advances on her which she rejects. The Pig complains to her boss and, together with her obvious burn-out, he recommends she takes time out. Jessica decides to return to her family home in Scotland for a long delayed Christmas reunion with her parents and elder brother, who's due to return with his young family from Oz. A tearful reunion and warm welcome from her parents is just what Jessica needs. What she doesn't need is the attentions of her brothers best friend Reuben Campbell. She remembers Reuben as the naughty child who stole her brother and pulled her pigtails! On top of this, he calls her Jessie a nickname she hates. The story of her broken heart is gradually revealed, and her mother is shocked that Jess has bottled up all this emotion.
A tale of romance, support from family and friends all skillfully woven around the lovely Scottish Loch Lomond village. Smell the heather and breathe the crisp, snowy air as the romance unfolds.
Jessica Stewart is a high flying lawyer working in London. She has tried unsuccessfully to heal her broken heart by working all hours at her job as a corporate lawyer. Her work has suffered, she has made mistakes, and an important client has made unwanted advances on her which she rejects. The Pig complains to her boss and, together with her obvious burn-out, he recommends she takes time out. Jessica decides to return to her family home in Scotland for a long delayed Christmas reunion with her parents and elder brother, who's due to return with his young family from Oz. A tearful reunion and warm welcome from her parents is just what Jessica needs. What she doesn't need is the attentions of her brothers best friend Reuben Campbell. She remembers Reuben as the naughty child who stole her brother and pulled her pigtails! On top of this, he calls her Jessie a nickname she hates. The story of her broken heart is gradually revealed, and her mother is shocked that Jess has bottled up all this emotion.
A tale of romance, support from family and friends all skillfully woven around the lovely Scottish Loch Lomond village. Smell the heather and breathe the crisp, snowy air as the romance unfolds.
October 11, 2025
This time last year, I absolutely loved reading A Christmas Wish On Arran by this author and so I couldn't resist taking a look at this new release.
The front cover instantly drew me in, giving festive vibes and I loved the look of the cute snowy village.
Whereas my last read was part of a long standing series - which I hadn't read before - I was really pleased to see that this book forms the start of a brand new series set in Rowan Bay - a small village on the edge of Loch Lomond - absolutely a place already on my backet list, but even moreso now.
This was beautiful descriptive and I instantly settled into this read within the first few pages.
I could feel myself being transported to this village and was totally immersed in getting ready for Christmas and following this second chance romance story.
I loved seeing both our characters returning to their childhood homes for Christmas.
After a bad year, they both needed some home comforts and respite.
Although Reuben had been pretty annoying when they were younger, Jessica finds the more time they spend together now, the more they learn how much they have in common with each other.
This was such a heartwarming read and I loved getting cosy and just disappearing into it for a few hours.
I can't wait to see this couple in future books and see how this develops further for them - but I'm also excited to see more of Rowan Bay and to meet some new characters in the next book.
The front cover instantly drew me in, giving festive vibes and I loved the look of the cute snowy village.
Whereas my last read was part of a long standing series - which I hadn't read before - I was really pleased to see that this book forms the start of a brand new series set in Rowan Bay - a small village on the edge of Loch Lomond - absolutely a place already on my backet list, but even moreso now.
This was beautiful descriptive and I instantly settled into this read within the first few pages.
I could feel myself being transported to this village and was totally immersed in getting ready for Christmas and following this second chance romance story.
I loved seeing both our characters returning to their childhood homes for Christmas.
After a bad year, they both needed some home comforts and respite.
Although Reuben had been pretty annoying when they were younger, Jessica finds the more time they spend together now, the more they learn how much they have in common with each other.
This was such a heartwarming read and I loved getting cosy and just disappearing into it for a few hours.
I can't wait to see this couple in future books and see how this develops further for them - but I'm also excited to see more of Rowan Bay and to meet some new characters in the next book.
October 6, 2025
Jessica Stewart's life is in shambles and has been for over a year, ever since her work trip to New York last December.
Given a long leave of absence, she goes home to Rowan Bay in Loch Lomond for extended Christmas holidays with family - her parents, brother and his family who are flying in from Down Under.
As she begins to relax, unwind and get involved with the slower pace of life and Christmas activities at Rowan Bay, she meets up again with Reuben, her brother's best friend from their childhood and the annoying bugbear who pulled her ponytail.
However, Reuben has changed, or has he? He still teases her, calling her nicknames she doesn't care for, pulling her ponytail, but at the same time, he's a wonderful friend, listener and overall good guy. But he's taken!!
A modern romance, Ellie Henderson's novel does not espouse Christian values and moral principles. It's a clean closed door romance, but for a primarily Christian audience, it's not recommended reading. If biblical values are not important to you, you would enjoy this novel.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and Joffe books but the opinions are mine alone.
Given a long leave of absence, she goes home to Rowan Bay in Loch Lomond for extended Christmas holidays with family - her parents, brother and his family who are flying in from Down Under.
As she begins to relax, unwind and get involved with the slower pace of life and Christmas activities at Rowan Bay, she meets up again with Reuben, her brother's best friend from their childhood and the annoying bugbear who pulled her ponytail.
However, Reuben has changed, or has he? He still teases her, calling her nicknames she doesn't care for, pulling her ponytail, but at the same time, he's a wonderful friend, listener and overall good guy. But he's taken!!
A modern romance, Ellie Henderson's novel does not espouse Christian values and moral principles. It's a clean closed door romance, but for a primarily Christian audience, it's not recommended reading. If biblical values are not important to you, you would enjoy this novel.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and Joffe books but the opinions are mine alone.
October 23, 2025
This one surprised me in ways both good and bad. Going into this, it feels like it’s a cozy romance, but it’s also has tragedy mixed in…..which sometimes felt disjointed with the story. With work and life stress coming to a boiling point, Jessica returns to her family and small Scottish village for the holidays, despite holding tight to a big secret that’s the root of her stress. Meanwhile, her brother’s best friend Reuben, the bane of her childhood, has grown up and while charming, still knows how to pull at Jessica’s nerves. But he has secrets of his own, and while both fail to communicate their feelings and secrets, it makes this a tricky holiday romance.
I liked both characters but the lack of communication ruined part of the story for me. Sure, it adds a little drama but I feel like the two side characters connected to the leads contributed enough drama on their own, and the no-communication didn’t add anything to the story beyond annoyance as a reader. I did love the setting of the Scottish village at Christmastime and would’ve loved more of that being incorporated into the story.
Thank you to NetGalley and Joffe Books for the advanced copy in exchange for my honest review.
I liked both characters but the lack of communication ruined part of the story for me. Sure, it adds a little drama but I feel like the two side characters connected to the leads contributed enough drama on their own, and the no-communication didn’t add anything to the story beyond annoyance as a reader. I did love the setting of the Scottish village at Christmastime and would’ve loved more of that being incorporated into the story.
Thank you to NetGalley and Joffe Books for the advanced copy in exchange for my honest review.
September 27, 2025
It’s interesting reading review and see how opinion can range because I loved this book. This was my first holiday read of the season, and it couldn’t have been a better way to kick things off. The story has everything I look for in a Christmas romance—charming setting, layered characters, and just enough twists to keep me hooked.
I really liked that it wasn’t overly sweet or predictable. Both main characters felt real and interesting, and there were a few plot turns that honestly made me stop and say, “Wait, what?!” The supporting cast was great too—quirky townspeople, parents who made me laugh, and of course, a main male lead who was completely swoon-worthy.
At the heart of it, this book is about love, family, and the kind of friends who feel like family—all set against a cozy Christmas backdrop. I read it in almost one sitting because I didn’t want to put it down.
Who it’s for: Readers who love small-town holiday romances, family-focused stories, and books that make you smile while keeping you invested in the characters.
I really liked that it wasn’t overly sweet or predictable. Both main characters felt real and interesting, and there were a few plot turns that honestly made me stop and say, “Wait, what?!” The supporting cast was great too—quirky townspeople, parents who made me laugh, and of course, a main male lead who was completely swoon-worthy.
At the heart of it, this book is about love, family, and the kind of friends who feel like family—all set against a cozy Christmas backdrop. I read it in almost one sitting because I didn’t want to put it down.
Who it’s for: Readers who love small-town holiday romances, family-focused stories, and books that make you smile while keeping you invested in the characters.
October 12, 2025
This is the first book in the Rowan Bay series and it really is a wonderful start! I devoured this one in two sittings as it was such a feel good read that had me hooked from the very first page.
I found all the characters to be likeable which is always nice, I especially had a soft spot for Catriona and Angus, I adored them and their relationship. This was quite a slow burn but I really was invested and I could really feel the chemistry between the two leads brewing. I did expect a little more of a pow moment when things came to a head but it didn’t ruin anything for me.
I loved the humour throughout, how it was used to lighten the tone when things became a little emotional, I found myself smiling along a couple of times. The descriptions brought everything to life, I could really feel the Christmas magic. This was a lovely little escape from reality and I’ll be keeping my eye out for the second instalment.
I found all the characters to be likeable which is always nice, I especially had a soft spot for Catriona and Angus, I adored them and their relationship. This was quite a slow burn but I really was invested and I could really feel the chemistry between the two leads brewing. I did expect a little more of a pow moment when things came to a head but it didn’t ruin anything for me.
I loved the humour throughout, how it was used to lighten the tone when things became a little emotional, I found myself smiling along a couple of times. The descriptions brought everything to life, I could really feel the Christmas magic. This was a lovely little escape from reality and I’ll be keeping my eye out for the second instalment.
October 12, 2025
This author writes beautiful Scottish romances - even though they are West Coast ones, my north-east Scottish heart forgives her and still loves them. This is the start of what promises to be another brilliant series, its set in a fictional wee village by Loch Lomond but absolutely depicts so much of Scottish village life across the country.
I loved meeting Reuben and Jessica here. The rest of the Murray family too. The story moves along wonderfully and I love seeing the relationship develop.
I really got a warm feeling about Gillian and hope that she might be the next one to get a story in the series. I think its been set up to give us a continuing insight into Reuben and Jessica's future too which is something I always like in a series, keeping up with previous couples just makes it feel like a much more rounded storyline.
The scenery was described beautifully, and the timing of Christmas was perfection. This is a great read to cosy up with this festive season!
I loved meeting Reuben and Jessica here. The rest of the Murray family too. The story moves along wonderfully and I love seeing the relationship develop.
I really got a warm feeling about Gillian and hope that she might be the next one to get a story in the series. I think its been set up to give us a continuing insight into Reuben and Jessica's future too which is something I always like in a series, keeping up with previous couples just makes it feel like a much more rounded storyline.
The scenery was described beautifully, and the timing of Christmas was perfection. This is a great read to cosy up with this festive season!
October 18, 2025
If you're going to read this book, go into it without expecting it to be the run-of the-mill Christmas romance. The actual story was engaging and Ellie Henderson really did a lovely job with the setting, making me want to book a visit up to Loch Lomond.
After an emotional heartbreak the previous year, Jessica buries herself into her work and ends up burnt out. She is forced to avail her annual leave and goes home to Rowan Bay in Scotland. She reconnects with her brother's best friend Reuben.
This is where the romance, or rather lack of romance comes in. Both Jessica and Reuben never quite clicked for me — their relationship felt more friendly than romantic. I kept waiting for that spark or moment of real chemistry, but it never fully arrived.
Having said that, A Scottish Christmas Hideaway is a feel-good, family-orientated, festive read.
NetGalley and Joffe Books provided me with this book in exchange for an honest review.
After an emotional heartbreak the previous year, Jessica buries herself into her work and ends up burnt out. She is forced to avail her annual leave and goes home to Rowan Bay in Scotland. She reconnects with her brother's best friend Reuben.
This is where the romance, or rather lack of romance comes in. Both Jessica and Reuben never quite clicked for me — their relationship felt more friendly than romantic. I kept waiting for that spark or moment of real chemistry, but it never fully arrived.
Having said that, A Scottish Christmas Hideaway is a feel-good, family-orientated, festive read.
NetGalley and Joffe Books provided me with this book in exchange for an honest review.
August 21, 2025
Thank you NetGalley and Joffe Books for this ARC.
This book was such a sweet, second chance love story. It follows Jessica, who has been forced to take some time off work after the death of her partner. She goes home to Scotland to be with her family for the Holiday season.
While there, she runs into her brother's best friend, Reuben. He is fixing up a cottage a few doors down from her parents home for Jessica's brother to stay in for Christmas vacation, too. They end up becoming close over the course of the stay, and realize there is something there between them.
Watching the two navigate a romance at Christmas was a fun read. It was well done, and didn't feel tired like some Christmas romances can. Spice level was some kissing and alluding to other activities, but was rather closed door romance.
5/5 a super cute Christmas love story to read this year!
This book was such a sweet, second chance love story. It follows Jessica, who has been forced to take some time off work after the death of her partner. She goes home to Scotland to be with her family for the Holiday season.
While there, she runs into her brother's best friend, Reuben. He is fixing up a cottage a few doors down from her parents home for Jessica's brother to stay in for Christmas vacation, too. They end up becoming close over the course of the stay, and realize there is something there between them.
Watching the two navigate a romance at Christmas was a fun read. It was well done, and didn't feel tired like some Christmas romances can. Spice level was some kissing and alluding to other activities, but was rather closed door romance.
5/5 a super cute Christmas love story to read this year!
Read
September 8, 2025Tras un año complicado y con el corazón roto, Jessica decide dejar atrás Londres para refugiarse en Rowan Bay, el pintoresco pueblo escocés donde creció. Su idea es simple: descansar, recuperar fuerzas y reencontrarse con la paz que siempre le ha brindado su hogar en Navidad. Lo que no esperaba era coincidir con Reuben, el viejo amigo de su hermano, cuya presencia despierta recuerdos y sentimientos que pensaba olvidados.
En medio de paisajes nevados, tardes junto al fuego y la alegría de las celebraciones locales, Jessica tendrá que enfrentarse a su pasado, sanar viejas heridas y descubrir si el verdadero regalo de Navidad puede ser una nueva oportunidad para amar.
___
No vi venir la razón por la que Tim no apareció a la cena.
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest opinion.
En medio de paisajes nevados, tardes junto al fuego y la alegría de las celebraciones locales, Jessica tendrá que enfrentarse a su pasado, sanar viejas heridas y descubrir si el verdadero regalo de Navidad puede ser una nueva oportunidad para amar.
___
No vi venir la razón por la que Tim no apareció a la cena.
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest opinion.
October 3, 2025
I received this book as an ARC read and it did not disappoint. Rowan Bay seems to be an idyllic Scottish small town where people love big and care wildly about their community. Getting to travel alongside Jessica as she nurtures herself and unlearns her unhealthy coping strategies in the safety of her hometown surrounded by a super realistic family is the reminder we all need to stop and watch the snowflakes fall.
This story has many of my favorite tropes (a wee bit of not-so-enemies to lovers, some miscommunication, a surprising end of a relationship, and more). There were several times in the story where I found my mouth hanging open from surprise and delight. It isn’t often that an HEA can catch me off guard (in a good way) but I won’t spoil it for you here. Definitely add this to your holiday TBR and cozy up next to a fireplace for a satisfying read.
This story has many of my favorite tropes (a wee bit of not-so-enemies to lovers, some miscommunication, a surprising end of a relationship, and more). There were several times in the story where I found my mouth hanging open from surprise and delight. It isn’t often that an HEA can catch me off guard (in a good way) but I won’t spoil it for you here. Definitely add this to your holiday TBR and cozy up next to a fireplace for a satisfying read.
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