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Across the Pressing Dark: A YA Time Travel Romantasy of Love, Magic, and the Scottish Highlands
Lost in time, bound by love, hunted by magic.
At nineteen, Rose thought tracking down her unpredictable mother in Scotland would be her biggest challenge. Instead, she's ripped from her time and hurled into the unforgiving Highlands of the seventeenth century, where she becomes entangled in deadly clan rivalries, ancient magic, and a history she was never meant to uncover.
Irresistibly drawn to Callum, a young Scotsman trapped by fate and servitude, Rose finds a connection unlike any she has ever known. But their growing love puts them both in mortal peril. Dark forces gather, wielding powerful sorcery to keep them apart, and Rose must return to her own time, or risk everything to forge a future with Callum?
A sweeping tale of love, sacrifice, and magic, Across the Pressing Dark is the first book in a romantic young adult time-travel duology—where love defies time, and the past is never truly buried.
“Wolff transports the reader into a wondrous world of chivalry and adventure.”
– Fresh Fiction on LORD OF THE HIGHLANDS
“Veronica Wolff’s Scotsmen are pure temptation!”
– New York Times bestselling author Sandra Hill on LORD OF THE HIGHLANDS
“Veronica Wolff is a fresh, exciting voice in Scottish time-travel–a supernova in the making.”
– Penelope Williamson on WARRIOR OF THE HIGHLANDS
“Wolff writes a story that will grab you from the first word and not let go.”
– Night Owl Reviews on DEVIL’S HIGHLANDER, Reviewer Top Pick
At nineteen, Rose thought tracking down her unpredictable mother in Scotland would be her biggest challenge. Instead, she's ripped from her time and hurled into the unforgiving Highlands of the seventeenth century, where she becomes entangled in deadly clan rivalries, ancient magic, and a history she was never meant to uncover.
Irresistibly drawn to Callum, a young Scotsman trapped by fate and servitude, Rose finds a connection unlike any she has ever known. But their growing love puts them both in mortal peril. Dark forces gather, wielding powerful sorcery to keep them apart, and Rose must return to her own time, or risk everything to forge a future with Callum?
A sweeping tale of love, sacrifice, and magic, Across the Pressing Dark is the first book in a romantic young adult time-travel duology—where love defies time, and the past is never truly buried.
“Wolff transports the reader into a wondrous world of chivalry and adventure.”
– Fresh Fiction on LORD OF THE HIGHLANDS
“Veronica Wolff’s Scotsmen are pure temptation!”
– New York Times bestselling author Sandra Hill on LORD OF THE HIGHLANDS
“Veronica Wolff is a fresh, exciting voice in Scottish time-travel–a supernova in the making.”
– Penelope Williamson on WARRIOR OF THE HIGHLANDS
“Wolff writes a story that will grab you from the first word and not let go.”
– Night Owl Reviews on DEVIL’S HIGHLANDER, Reviewer Top Pick
430 pages, Paperback
Published September 23, 2025
5 people are currently reading
28 people want to read
About the author
Veronica Wolff
24 books535 followersVeronica Wolff is an award-winning, bestselling author who likes monsters, fight scenes, and first kisses. Sometimes all at the same time. She lived everywhere from Texas to Hawaii to India before settling in Northern California, where she shares a home with her husband and her black cat familiar, Josie.
She writes across genres, including Scottish historical romance, time travel, contemporary romance, and young adult fiction. She may or may not have a top-secret alter ego named Ron Wolff, who writes gonzo sci-fi thrillers.
She writes across genres, including Scottish historical romance, time travel, contemporary romance, and young adult fiction. She may or may not have a top-secret alter ego named Ron Wolff, who writes gonzo sci-fi thrillers.
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
October 12, 2025
This story was an experience that I’ve never had before. I’ve always liked reading historical fiction, but I’ve never actually tried anything from Scotland, and nothing in the 17th century. I have to say, Wolff has completely put me onto the genre and now I want to read all of her works!
I always know I enjoy a book when I’m crying at the end of it, and this one was no exception. Don’t worry though, it is full of kindness, heart, power, and feminine strength. I also really appreciated that there was enough romance to keep the reader attached, but not too much that I felt overwhelmed.
I highly recommend the story to anyone who is a fan of young adult literature, and likes a romance-rich plot. The beginning was a little more confusing, so I will also advise to stick with the story as it gets very capturing as soon as the plot gets situated. I didn’t realize that it was a geology until I finish the book, so be prepared for that before you read!
Thank you very much to BookSirens for providing me an advance review copy for free. I am leaving this review voluntarily and a very enthusiastic to support this author!
I always know I enjoy a book when I’m crying at the end of it, and this one was no exception. Don’t worry though, it is full of kindness, heart, power, and feminine strength. I also really appreciated that there was enough romance to keep the reader attached, but not too much that I felt overwhelmed.
I highly recommend the story to anyone who is a fan of young adult literature, and likes a romance-rich plot. The beginning was a little more confusing, so I will also advise to stick with the story as it gets very capturing as soon as the plot gets situated. I didn’t realize that it was a geology until I finish the book, so be prepared for that before you read!
Thank you very much to BookSirens for providing me an advance review copy for free. I am leaving this review voluntarily and a very enthusiastic to support this author!
October 14, 2025
I found Across The Pressing Dark unique (no spoilers) with some mystery surrounding MC Rose's time travel. The writing is immersive, visually evoking the scenes of 17th century Scotland. It would make a great screen adaptation or at least an audiobook to be able to hear all the Gaelic sprinkled in. I'm looking forward to The next book coming out October 31st. Thank you Veronica Wolff and Book Sirens for the gifted e-arc.
Time travel books are among my first loves of reading. My mom loves time travel, and I spent a lot of time reading her books, swaying me from my love of the time for everything Vampires (not sparkley ones, though I do love those too) to the magic of time and the possibility of traversing it.
Time travel books are among my first loves of reading. My mom loves time travel, and I spent a lot of time reading her books, swaying me from my love of the time for everything Vampires (not sparkley ones, though I do love those too) to the magic of time and the possibility of traversing it.
October 10, 2025
Rose traveled to Scotland to enjoy a mother-daughter bonding moment on vacation with her mother. However, her mother, as usual, seems to always never be found. And when Rose suddenly wakes up in a timeline that’s not her own, she begins to learn more about her mother, her family history, and where her mother really came from.
I always love time traveling, and to have that and a sweet romance on top of it, while also experiencing living in the 1600s with Rose, it was definitely an interesting experience.
Callum is just this strong teddy bear cinnamon roll that is just so sweet in Rose. And here’s Rose just trying to get home 😆 but she’s also trying to understand more about her family, especially her mother. And so she’s having a hard time trusting, but I love how their relationship slowly developed and the banter was great.
I really enjoyed this one! Thank you to BookSirens and the author for the e-ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I always love time traveling, and to have that and a sweet romance on top of it, while also experiencing living in the 1600s with Rose, it was definitely an interesting experience.
Callum is just this strong teddy bear cinnamon roll that is just so sweet in Rose. And here’s Rose just trying to get home 😆 but she’s also trying to understand more about her family, especially her mother. And so she’s having a hard time trusting, but I love how their relationship slowly developed and the banter was great.
I really enjoyed this one! Thank you to BookSirens and the author for the e-ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 7, 2025
I really enjoyed this book. It was such a refreshing read for me and honestly the perfect fall book. The Scottish Highlands are always a wonderful place for a story, and add in a smithy?! Even better. I couldn’t put this one down and now I’m counting the days until the next book is out. Rose is one of my new favorite FMCs, her personal journey alone makes it worth the read. Veronica’s world building is so effortless and intricate, I was sucked in right away. I can’t recommend this book enough, especially if you haven’t read a Sottish historical romance before.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 21, 2025
Sweeping, Spellbinding, and Utterly Transportive
Across the Pressing Dark by Veronica Wolff is the kind of story that wraps around your heart like a fog-drenched Highland morning — hauntingly beautiful, quietly powerful, and impossible to put down.
This is time travel romantasy at its best — full of aching love, ancient magic, and a sense of wonder that lingers long after the final page. Veronica Wolff doesn’t just write a story; she creates a world you fall into, one filled with mossy forests, whispered legends, and star-crossed hearts.
The heroine is brave, vulnerable, and refreshingly real, navigating a past not her own with strength and heart. And the love interest? Tender, tortured, and absolutely unforgettable — the kind of romantic lead that feels like he stepped out of legend and directly into your soul.
Their connection is slow-burning but intense, threaded with longing, fate, and just the right touch of tension. You feel every glance, every impossible choice, every echo of “what if.”
The magic system is gentle and mysterious — more folklore than fireworks — and perfectly fits the moody, mist-covered setting of the Scottish Highlands. The writing itself is lyrical without being overdone, and the pacing flows with the rhythm of a story told through time and emotion.
There are books that entertain, and then there are books that stay with you — and Across the Pressing Dark is firmly the latter. It’s the kind of YA that respects its audience, balances fantasy and romance with care, and reminds you why we read in the first place.
Enchanting, romantic, and deeply moving — this book cast a spell I didn’t want to break.
Across the Pressing Dark by Veronica Wolff is the kind of story that wraps around your heart like a fog-drenched Highland morning — hauntingly beautiful, quietly powerful, and impossible to put down.
This is time travel romantasy at its best — full of aching love, ancient magic, and a sense of wonder that lingers long after the final page. Veronica Wolff doesn’t just write a story; she creates a world you fall into, one filled with mossy forests, whispered legends, and star-crossed hearts.
The heroine is brave, vulnerable, and refreshingly real, navigating a past not her own with strength and heart. And the love interest? Tender, tortured, and absolutely unforgettable — the kind of romantic lead that feels like he stepped out of legend and directly into your soul.
Their connection is slow-burning but intense, threaded with longing, fate, and just the right touch of tension. You feel every glance, every impossible choice, every echo of “what if.”
The magic system is gentle and mysterious — more folklore than fireworks — and perfectly fits the moody, mist-covered setting of the Scottish Highlands. The writing itself is lyrical without being overdone, and the pacing flows with the rhythm of a story told through time and emotion.
There are books that entertain, and then there are books that stay with you — and Across the Pressing Dark is firmly the latter. It’s the kind of YA that respects its audience, balances fantasy and romance with care, and reminds you why we read in the first place.
Enchanting, romantic, and deeply moving — this book cast a spell I didn’t want to break.
September 5, 2025
This one surprised me. It’s marketed as a time travel romance, but what it really nails is the emotional fallout of being pulled out of your life—your relationships, your sense of self—and dropped into something wild and unfamiliar. Rose doesn’t just fall through time; she falls into a kind of emotional fog, and Wolff lets that disorientation breathe.
Callum isn’t flashy. He’s quiet, grounded, and feels like someone who’s lived through too much to waste words. Their connection builds slowly, with tension that’s more felt than spoken. No insta-love, no dramatic declarations—just two people trying to make sense of each other in a world that doesn’t make sense.
The setting works hard: moody landscapes, clan politics, and a kind of old magic that’s never fully explained (thankfully). Wolff doesn’t overdo it. She trusts the reader to feel the strangeness without spelling it out.
There are a few moments where the story leans into familiar YA beats—some predictable emotional pivots, a couple of genre-standard reveals—but they don’t derail the tone. The heart of the book is steady: quiet longing, hard choices, and the kind of love that asks for sacrifice, not just spark
Overall, Across the Pressing Dark leaves you with a quiet ache—less about the romance itself, more about what it costs to choose it. It’s understated, steady, and worth sitting with.
Callum isn’t flashy. He’s quiet, grounded, and feels like someone who’s lived through too much to waste words. Their connection builds slowly, with tension that’s more felt than spoken. No insta-love, no dramatic declarations—just two people trying to make sense of each other in a world that doesn’t make sense.
The setting works hard: moody landscapes, clan politics, and a kind of old magic that’s never fully explained (thankfully). Wolff doesn’t overdo it. She trusts the reader to feel the strangeness without spelling it out.
There are a few moments where the story leans into familiar YA beats—some predictable emotional pivots, a couple of genre-standard reveals—but they don’t derail the tone. The heart of the book is steady: quiet longing, hard choices, and the kind of love that asks for sacrifice, not just spark
Overall, Across the Pressing Dark leaves you with a quiet ache—less about the romance itself, more about what it costs to choose it. It’s understated, steady, and worth sitting with.
December 16, 2025
After all the disappointing reads this year, this was such a breath of fresh Scottish air. The premise struck me as the YA version of Outlander, so I couldn't resist. Time travel stories can be so much fun when done well, and this book did not disappoint. The setting was immersive and realistic, and I loved the characters and the story in general.
It wasn't perfect. Some of the MC's actions felt a bit reckless at times, considering she's fully aware of how things were in the past and the severe consequences to actions we'd find trivial today. I'd be terrified of getting into trouble knowing that hangings and beheadings were so commonplace in those days.
The romance also felt a little unearned and overly idealized. I would have preferred less insta-love and a more gradual progression from strangers to lovers. That said, I still swooned and enjoyed the romance, and I appreciated that there was no explicit content shoved in as fan service, so this is mostly me nitpicking.
None of the issues affected the novel's bingability, and that says a lot. I can't wait to read book two. I'm amazed that it's already published just months after this one, so I don't have to wait a year or more to find out what happens.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
It wasn't perfect. Some of the MC's actions felt a bit reckless at times, considering she's fully aware of how things were in the past and the severe consequences to actions we'd find trivial today. I'd be terrified of getting into trouble knowing that hangings and beheadings were so commonplace in those days.
The romance also felt a little unearned and overly idealized. I would have preferred less insta-love and a more gradual progression from strangers to lovers. That said, I still swooned and enjoyed the romance, and I appreciated that there was no explicit content shoved in as fan service, so this is mostly me nitpicking.
None of the issues affected the novel's bingability, and that says a lot. I can't wait to read book two. I'm amazed that it's already published just months after this one, so I don't have to wait a year or more to find out what happens.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 11, 2025
I really enjoyed this book even before I read it I was intrigued Time-travel in Scotland with a handsome highlander, yes please! sign me up. The book does have some similarities to the Outlander series but it had enough differences to make it unique and I enjoyed the mistake by the magic element that led to our FMC traveling back learning more about her past and her mother in the process.
I did have a hard time with our FMC sometimes because while she was a smart physics student she also struggled at times with reading the room... you aren't in your own time and don't have as much verbal freedom or any freedom at this point back in time she became a servant to the laird of the castle (yes the one that is in ruins in modern time), her mouth got herself and more often Callum in trouble on multiple occasions throughout the book.
I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series!
Book blog: https://elbyslibrary.blogspot.com/202...
*strong FMC *Time Travel romance *young adult *Scotland *Outlaw MMC *no spice (kisses only)
*Slow burn *American FMC *Ancient Magic *Book Sirens *ARC *Cinnamon Role MMC
*Highlander MMC
I did have a hard time with our FMC sometimes because while she was a smart physics student she also struggled at times with reading the room... you aren't in your own time and don't have as much verbal freedom or any freedom at this point back in time she became a servant to the laird of the castle (yes the one that is in ruins in modern time), her mouth got herself and more often Callum in trouble on multiple occasions throughout the book.
I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series!
Book blog: https://elbyslibrary.blogspot.com/202...
*strong FMC *Time Travel romance *young adult *Scotland *Outlaw MMC *no spice (kisses only)
*Slow burn *American FMC *Ancient Magic *Book Sirens *ARC *Cinnamon Role MMC
*Highlander MMC
October 18, 2025
I knew it was a cliffhanger walking into this book but I am still upset. It feels like stopping a story in the middle of a book. I mean it is a good place to stop but I am really sad.
This is a soulmates story. Two people who belong together and have always belonged together across time and space.
Rose/Rosie: Our female lead has always lived in the shadows of her mother always feeling like an outsider in her own life.
Callum: Our black smith highlander, I feel sad just thinking about him. The way his hardships and loneliness is written makes me sad. I just want to give him a hug.
The best part about the characters in this book is that no one was truly evil and no one was truly good.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I have given it four stars instead of five because of the cliffhanger. Those should be illegal. I was given advanced notice but ending with my sweet overgrown highlander in that situation broke my heart and I cannot forgive you.
I cannot wait for book two. I am also planning on rewatching Outlander after this. I might even look into saving up for a trip to Scotland.
This is a soulmates story. Two people who belong together and have always belonged together across time and space.
Rose/Rosie: Our female lead has always lived in the shadows of her mother always feeling like an outsider in her own life.
Callum: Our black smith highlander, I feel sad just thinking about him. The way his hardships and loneliness is written makes me sad. I just want to give him a hug.
The best part about the characters in this book is that no one was truly evil and no one was truly good.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I have given it four stars instead of five because of the cliffhanger. Those should be illegal. I was given advanced notice but ending with my sweet overgrown highlander in that situation broke my heart and I cannot forgive you.
I cannot wait for book two. I am also planning on rewatching Outlander after this. I might even look into saving up for a trip to Scotland.
October 18, 2025
Across the pressing dark by Veronica Wolf
Published:23 September of 2025
I received this arc for an honest review.
Rose flew to Scotland to have a bound moment between mother and daughter but I all was a caos as always her mother ruins it and worse part, some how she traveled back in time because of a witch, now she’s force to remain there.
But rose won’t just stay silent she will find who really was supposed to be called and why everything is connected to her mother.
Opinion:
I loved how Callum was written a true love story a man how’s purpose was to love Rose and protect her.
At fist I hated Donag for how cruel she was but after I had a bit of mercy for her but with that ending? Hell NO
The ending left me wanting to read more and see everything finally from Janet’s pov and maybe justify her live choices but not for how she raised Rose that I won’t forgive .
It was a bit confusing at the beginning but it was a cozy read for this autumn, I was definitely facing a reading slump and gladly I could finish this book.
Published:23 September of 2025
I received this arc for an honest review.
Rose flew to Scotland to have a bound moment between mother and daughter but I all was a caos as always her mother ruins it and worse part, some how she traveled back in time because of a witch, now she’s force to remain there.
But rose won’t just stay silent she will find who really was supposed to be called and why everything is connected to her mother.
Opinion:
I loved how Callum was written a true love story a man how’s purpose was to love Rose and protect her.
At fist I hated Donag for how cruel she was but after I had a bit of mercy for her but with that ending? Hell NO
The ending left me wanting to read more and see everything finally from Janet’s pov and maybe justify her live choices but not for how she raised Rose that I won’t forgive .
It was a bit confusing at the beginning but it was a cozy read for this autumn, I was definitely facing a reading slump and gladly I could finish this book.
November 2, 2025
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
As a person who only watched two episodes of Outlander, this book has made me love this time-travel Scottish romance story. I cannot explain how invested I was with the main characters, specially the male lead, as I fell absolutely in love with him.
The writing is outstanding, deep enough to make you visualize the events like a film, but quick-paced enough to make you enjoy you reading without feeling slow on the plot.
I had some minus problems with the female lead because sometimes I wanted to scream at her so bad, but we got along at the end. Cannot wait for the second part!!!!!
The secondary characters build such a tension and debates that I felt like a fairytale, wishing on the romance but also afraid of what might happen next if the other characters got in the way. Donag has a place in my heart after all ;).
Five stars read without doubts, I need more of this world, thank you so much for the ARC copy I felt delighted to read such a wonderful book this month with the Highlands aesthetic.
As a person who only watched two episodes of Outlander, this book has made me love this time-travel Scottish romance story. I cannot explain how invested I was with the main characters, specially the male lead, as I fell absolutely in love with him.
The writing is outstanding, deep enough to make you visualize the events like a film, but quick-paced enough to make you enjoy you reading without feeling slow on the plot.
I had some minus problems with the female lead because sometimes I wanted to scream at her so bad, but we got along at the end. Cannot wait for the second part!!!!!
The secondary characters build such a tension and debates that I felt like a fairytale, wishing on the romance but also afraid of what might happen next if the other characters got in the way. Donag has a place in my heart after all ;).
Five stars read without doubts, I need more of this world, thank you so much for the ARC copy I felt delighted to read such a wonderful book this month with the Highlands aesthetic.
October 23, 2025
Across the Pressing Dark by Veronica Wolff is a whimsical, magical tale about modern day Rose Campbell visiting Scotland with her very hare-brained, very absent mother. ⠀
⠀
Rose has never felt her mother’s love, and mostly plays the babysitter to her antics, this doesn’t change when they go across the globe to her mother’s hometown in Scotland 🏴 and Rose finds herself sight seeing alone and somehow ends up in the 17th century!! 🤯 ⠀
⠀
When in 1622, she learns about her mother’s true past and meets the love of her life! Callum MacGregor is a highland hero if I’ve ever seen one and between his Rosie loves and little affirmations “there’s only one you” “you’re a ferocious wee thing.” I was absolutely swooning.⠀
🥰🥰😍🥰😍🥰😍🥰😍🥰😍😍🥰😍🥰🥰⠀
⠀
It’s rough getting her back to her time, the heartache is palpable and this is the first in the series sooooo you can find me preordering the next installment. ⠀
⠀
Rosie love needs her 1622 Callum!!! ⠀
⠀
Rose has never felt her mother’s love, and mostly plays the babysitter to her antics, this doesn’t change when they go across the globe to her mother’s hometown in Scotland 🏴 and Rose finds herself sight seeing alone and somehow ends up in the 17th century!! 🤯 ⠀
⠀
When in 1622, she learns about her mother’s true past and meets the love of her life! Callum MacGregor is a highland hero if I’ve ever seen one and between his Rosie loves and little affirmations “there’s only one you” “you’re a ferocious wee thing.” I was absolutely swooning.⠀
🥰🥰😍🥰😍🥰😍🥰😍🥰😍😍🥰😍🥰🥰⠀
⠀
It’s rough getting her back to her time, the heartache is palpable and this is the first in the series sooooo you can find me preordering the next installment. ⠀
⠀
Rosie love needs her 1622 Callum!!! ⠀
November 16, 2025
When I first read what the book was about, I thought what in the Outlander..
But I love books about Scotland, highlanders and past time, so I started reading it anyway.
Because of Outlander I knew a lot of Gaelic words.
The story is about Rose, who is not in a good relationship with her mother Janet.
They went to Scotland together and she can’t find her mom anywhere. When she finally finds her, she’s gone the next morning.
When she goes to the loch, finds ruins of the Campbell Castle and graveyard, she also sees a grave under the appletree, when she goes on, she stumbles upon a house and she’s suddenly in the year 1622.
She meets Callum and Donag.
A lot of things happen.. I won’t spoil the whole book hahaha.
Do know this; I cried when she was back at the appletree…
I NEED to read the next book!!
But I love books about Scotland, highlanders and past time, so I started reading it anyway.
Because of Outlander I knew a lot of Gaelic words.
The story is about Rose, who is not in a good relationship with her mother Janet.
They went to Scotland together and she can’t find her mom anywhere. When she finally finds her, she’s gone the next morning.
When she goes to the loch, finds ruins of the Campbell Castle and graveyard, she also sees a grave under the appletree, when she goes on, she stumbles upon a house and she’s suddenly in the year 1622.
She meets Callum and Donag.
A lot of things happen.. I won’t spoil the whole book hahaha.
Do know this; I cried when she was back at the appletree…
I NEED to read the next book!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 29, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Across the Pressing Dark is a beautifully written and immersive YA time-travel adventure that blends romance, danger, and magic in a way that immediately pulls you in. Veronica Wolff does a fantastic job capturing the atmosphere of the 17th-century Scottish Highlands, with vivid descriptions that make you feel the tension of clan rivalries and the pull of ancient sorcery.
Rose is a relatable heroine—curious, brave, and torn between her modern reality and the impossible love she discovers with Callum. Their chemistry feels authentic, and the stakes of their relationship add real emotional weight. The blend of romance and fantasy is compelling, and the story kept me turning pages to see how Rose would navigate the impossible choice between her own time and the dangerous new world she finds herself in.
While the pacing lags in a few places, and some secondary characters could have been more fleshed out, the heart of the story—love tested by time and magic—shines through. As the first book in a duology, it sets up the stakes well and leaves you eager for the continuation.
If you enjoy sweeping YA romances with time travel, historical intrigue, and a touch of dark magic, this is a great pick.
Across the Pressing Dark is a beautifully written and immersive YA time-travel adventure that blends romance, danger, and magic in a way that immediately pulls you in. Veronica Wolff does a fantastic job capturing the atmosphere of the 17th-century Scottish Highlands, with vivid descriptions that make you feel the tension of clan rivalries and the pull of ancient sorcery.
Rose is a relatable heroine—curious, brave, and torn between her modern reality and the impossible love she discovers with Callum. Their chemistry feels authentic, and the stakes of their relationship add real emotional weight. The blend of romance and fantasy is compelling, and the story kept me turning pages to see how Rose would navigate the impossible choice between her own time and the dangerous new world she finds herself in.
While the pacing lags in a few places, and some secondary characters could have been more fleshed out, the heart of the story—love tested by time and magic—shines through. As the first book in a duology, it sets up the stakes well and leaves you eager for the continuation.
If you enjoy sweeping YA romances with time travel, historical intrigue, and a touch of dark magic, this is a great pick.
October 3, 2025
Well written, full of drama, adventure, clans, intrigue, suspense, friendship, twists and time travel. If only it is time travel is possible to do. Rose is in Scotland with her mother, Janet. Janet just seems to keep disappearing but shows up when she needs money. Rose is a person who she thinks is a ghost but will soon come to face him. One minute she is in the present then she is in the past. Rose meets Callum , who helps her understand herself and what her mother , Janet, did in her past life. Together they try to find a way to get Rose backed to her life. Feelings grow for both. What a thing it would be to time travel. Keeps you turning the pages till the next story. Would strongly recommend to everyone.
I received this story and leave this unbiased, honest review.
I received this story and leave this unbiased, honest review.
September 18, 2025
I really enjoyed this as a time travel story and as a a opening chapter in the Pressing Dark Duology series. It uses the romance concept and how it was used to show that love between Rose and Callum. I was invested in the characters and how they were used to tell the story perfectly. It was everything that was promised in the description and was glad I got to read this. Veronica Wolff has a strong writing style and thought had that feel that worked in this type of book and left me wanting more, as this was everything that worked in the genre.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 5, 2025
This was off to a slow start BUT I so underestimated this book. Wolff was one of my favorite writers as a young adult and so I thought I need to give this a go and boy was I right.
I love Rose. She is so passionate and I also like her saracasm and the way she sees the world. She is so deserving of the love Callum gives her. Which leads me straight to Callum- he is such a wonderfully crafted character. I like everything about him. He is so caring, funny, loving and also a perfect gentleman.
The pacing of the plot was perfect after it was established and I would not change a thing. The cliffhanger is bad though.
I love Rose. She is so passionate and I also like her saracasm and the way she sees the world. She is so deserving of the love Callum gives her. Which leads me straight to Callum- he is such a wonderfully crafted character. I like everything about him. He is so caring, funny, loving and also a perfect gentleman.
The pacing of the plot was perfect after it was established and I would not change a thing. The cliffhanger is bad though.
November 10, 2025
What a beautiful story that shows love can transcend all things. I was so lucky to have received this as an ARC and I could not have been more excited. Wolff writes in such a cool female character in Rose that she really touches on what a modern young adult feels when dealing with all of the things like, money problems, wanting to leave your old life behind, a narcissist for a mother...who is polar opposite of her. ....until she is transported back in time and finds Callum. I wont spoil it, because you should DEF pick this book up. It is a must read and honestly perfect for anyome who loves a good love story.
November 11, 2025
I actually really liked this book. I felt so much for the characters and how even across time and space, they were really just meant to meet. I can't even find a decent person in my life, maybe mine is also in another timeline haha
I enjoyed the way the story was built and how the characters all had to continuously grow into themselves. I liked how intensely everything was felt. But also, that it has a bit of a whimsy in the way they were presented.
I am sad the book had to end and that I have to wait to see what the future brings. But kudos to the writer, this was a really good start!
I enjoyed the way the story was built and how the characters all had to continuously grow into themselves. I liked how intensely everything was felt. But also, that it has a bit of a whimsy in the way they were presented.
I am sad the book had to end and that I have to wait to see what the future brings. But kudos to the writer, this was a really good start!
December 13, 2025
Hooked on this story and can't get enough, Brilliant!
I was really drawn to this book with a love of Scotland and going back centuries to simpler but more complicated times. Loved everything about the story from the complicated and mysterious family ties to the love story and the magic and mystery surrounding her bond and ability to time travel.
It did feel very similar to Outlander but is a brilliant book and I found it irresistible, was on the edge of my seat. I laughed, I cried and I cannot wait for the next book. Will definitely be looking at reading her other books now. Highly recommended!
ARC free copy review
I was really drawn to this book with a love of Scotland and going back centuries to simpler but more complicated times. Loved everything about the story from the complicated and mysterious family ties to the love story and the magic and mystery surrounding her bond and ability to time travel.
It did feel very similar to Outlander but is a brilliant book and I found it irresistible, was on the edge of my seat. I laughed, I cried and I cannot wait for the next book. Will definitely be looking at reading her other books now. Highly recommended!
ARC free copy review
September 22, 2025
I received an ARC from the author for this one, and dang, it was exactly what I needed to read right now. Where's MY 17th century, swoony Scottish hero? *le sigh*
If you're looking for a bit of escapism (aren't we all in 2025?), longing romance (minus the spice), and adventure, this is a great read for you. I'm already looking forward to the next book in the series. Please note: this one doesn't exactly end on a cliffhanger, but it's clear that there's more to come for Rose & Callum.
If you're looking for a bit of escapism (aren't we all in 2025?), longing romance (minus the spice), and adventure, this is a great read for you. I'm already looking forward to the next book in the series. Please note: this one doesn't exactly end on a cliffhanger, but it's clear that there's more to come for Rose & Callum.
October 2, 2025
Time travel. Romance. Magic. Scotland
What’s not to love in this book.
I enjoyed it thoroughly and loved the relationship that grew between Rose and Callum - I sense there is more to come there and can’t wait for that.
Some of the characters i feel could of done with some extra background but maybe that will be in the next instalment 😁
I received this ARC for free and leave this review voluntarily
What’s not to love in this book.
I enjoyed it thoroughly and loved the relationship that grew between Rose and Callum - I sense there is more to come there and can’t wait for that.
Some of the characters i feel could of done with some extra background but maybe that will be in the next instalment 😁
I received this ARC for free and leave this review voluntarily
September 24, 2025
Scotland and time travel. What’s not to love?
There is so much good about this book. A strong, sassy, red headed heroine and a dark, brooding, sweet outlawed Highlander meeting in 17th Century Scotland where clan feuds, class differences and magical abilities determine your life.
And that’s also what’s causing a problem with the book. Because how do you stop it becoming another Outlander rip-off?
First off, the writing is very good. The story flows, the characters have some depth and dialogue is interesting.
However, there are many instances where it looks like the author has borrowed ideas from Outlander. The ruined castle at the start, where she then ends up in 1622. The time travelling obviously. The Gaelic phrases. Her being American, without much knowledge of the land and history. The outlawed highlander, forced to work the stables. The Laird, overlording it over his subject. The witch with knowledge of chants, magic etc. The girl’s knowledge of herbs. The mention of magical places like standing stones. The apparition of the ghost / highlander before she travels. The ceilidh at the castle. Etc.
That took enjoyment out of it for me. Which is a shame, because without the Outlander effect it’s a good book.
3.5 out of 5.
There is so much good about this book. A strong, sassy, red headed heroine and a dark, brooding, sweet outlawed Highlander meeting in 17th Century Scotland where clan feuds, class differences and magical abilities determine your life.
And that’s also what’s causing a problem with the book. Because how do you stop it becoming another Outlander rip-off?
First off, the writing is very good. The story flows, the characters have some depth and dialogue is interesting.
However, there are many instances where it looks like the author has borrowed ideas from Outlander. The ruined castle at the start, where she then ends up in 1622. The time travelling obviously. The Gaelic phrases. Her being American, without much knowledge of the land and history. The outlawed highlander, forced to work the stables. The Laird, overlording it over his subject. The witch with knowledge of chants, magic etc. The girl’s knowledge of herbs. The mention of magical places like standing stones. The apparition of the ghost / highlander before she travels. The ceilidh at the castle. Etc.
That took enjoyment out of it for me. Which is a shame, because without the Outlander effect it’s a good book.
3.5 out of 5.
October 7, 2025
I really liked the book, the story felt deep and emotional, with a lot of beautiful writing. It’s slow in some parts and sometimes i had to pull myself through it, but it draws you in at other parts where i couldn’t put it away.
It’s touching and it’s stays with you after you’re done.
It’s touching and it’s stays with you after you’re done.
September 9, 2025
Sweet! I loved Rose and Callum. I loved their love and their interactions. It was super enjoyable and i loved how it made me really feel like they could be real. Really good read.
October 14, 2025
ARC REVIEW
Why does it feels so short? Dear author, I need more! There's nothing to dislike at all, I swear. Consider me sold for the next book.
Why does it feels so short? Dear author, I need more! There's nothing to dislike at all, I swear. Consider me sold for the next book.
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