She’s out of second chances. He’s out of patience. And in Loren Brae, the truth never stays buried. After a WitchTok fiasco brands her the Heartbreak Witch, Liora flees home to lick her wounds. But when she uncovers her Gran’s grimoire, the secrets inside may explain everything she’s ever gotten wrong about her magick.
Enter Torin, the gruff forester whose relationship she once destroyed. A miscast spell binds him to honesty, making it impossible for him to lie. With the town watching their every move, a fake relationship seems like the only way to keep questions at bay. Except Torin’s unfiltered truths cut straight to Liora’s heart.
Now, as the constellations shift and the Kelpies close in, Liora must decide – stitch a new future with the man who cannot lie – or lose her magick for good.
🔥 A cozy Scottish romantasy with grumpy/sunshine sparks, a he-can’t-lie curse, meddling villagers, sisterly stakes, and a guaranteed happily-ever-after. 🔥
As an award winning NY Times, USA Today, and WSJ bestselling author, Tricia O’Malley’s infectious joy in writing romance with an added dash of the magical has touched hearts around the world. With over three million books read, O’Malley’s stories have been translated into several languages and enjoy a devoted following. Tricia O’Malley is a native of Wisconsin, and departed the wintry tundra for warmer locales five years ago. She now lives in the Caribbean with her handsome Scotsman.
An avid scuba diver, Tricia spends much of her time underwater dreaming up new stories while photographing the beautiful sea life. Tricia loves fun vacation reads, believes in mermaids, and has a serious travel addiction. She discovers her inspiration on the go – and you’ll find her books set in beautiful settings with characters who deserve a happily-ever-after.
To see some of her underwater or island life photos visit her on Facebook, Instagram, or join her mailing list at www.triciaomalley.com
Wild Scottish Magic by Tricia O’Malley The Enchanted Highlands series #9. Contemporary romance with paranormal elements. Can be read as a standalone. Liora has always loved astrology but her readings have a habit of going drastically wrong. She moves to Loren Brae, with a bit of help from her sister. Her magick comes alive and her astronomical readings have gone 3D. Loren Brae seems to be her destiny. And maybe Torin is too.
🎧 I listened to an audiobook narrated by Amy Landon and Will Watt who have done the full series. These two make the stories sing with wonderful Scottish accents. The emotions are vivid and each has specific voices for Liora and Torin.
A bit campy and so fun. Clive is always a hoot. Fast and flirty romance with a couple of steamy scenes. An entertaining series with a bit of a reveal behind the kelpies. Something bigger is in that lake but the counsel isn’t quite complete yet. More to come!
I received this from NetGalley and Dreamscape Select.
This had all the complements of a cozy and fun Scottish romance with a twist of fantasy. I wanted to love it, but it was so poorly executed and chaotic.
My biggest complaint is there was absolutely no relationship building between the main characters. It was the most insta-love thing I’ve ever read with an excuse of fake dating but they agreed to actually date instead (right away, they never even fake dated). So the story started out introducing the characters and I was excited for the banter and tension and there was none, so disappointing. The story spent way too much time explaining astrological signs and star charts and stuff in huge detail when it should have focused on the romance.
There was a lot going on. A truth spell mistake that needed to be fixed, kepies attacking the town (this seems to be a common issue in the whole series, so a bigger storyline. This is the first book I’ve read from this series), discovering her magic, a disgruntled ex, he needed to rent his home to support his mom, a bunch of issues were introduced but not really resolved or resolved in such a weak way, it’s like too much going on that the story didn’t know what to focus on.
I’ve wanted to read this series for a while and I may pick up the first book still, but I don’t see the need to dive in and read them all. Hoping the earlier books are better. You can tell that they are about other side characters in the town.
I did listen to the audio and it was great. The male narrator is phenomenal, I’ve listened to a few of his books and was super excited when I heard his lovely voice. The female was good, she fit the bubbly whimsical character well.
Thank you to the author, NetGalley and lovewrite publishing for the advanced audio copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
3.5 Stars - Wild Scottish Magic by Tricia O'Malley delivers exactly what cozy Scottish romantasy fans are looking for: a charming village steeped in magic, a world where Kelpies lurk and grimoires hold family secrets, and a slow-building romance between two people with complicated history. For a first foray into the Enchanted Highlands series, it worked well as a standalone entry point, and the lore of Loren Brae was easy to fall into.
Liora and Torin's dynamic carried the book for me. The curse is a clever device that forces real emotional vulnerability, and their scenes together had genuine tension. The setting is genuinely cozy without feeling generic, and the magical stakes with the Kelpies gave the story a bit of edge beyond the romance.
My one sticking point was Liora herself. She frustrated me at times, and I found it hard to fully root for her in the earlier sections of the book. She does grow, but it took patience to get there. Overall, a solid and enjoyable read for fans of the genre, and one that left me curious enough about the broader series to go back and read the previous books. Recommended for lovers of grumpy/sunshine romance with a magical Scottish twist.
Thank you to the author, NetGalley, and Lovewrite publishing for the advanced audio copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
I absolutely devoured this book in one day - once I really settled in, I couldn’t put it down!
Even jumping ahead to book 9 in the series (after only reading the first 3), I felt completely pulled into the story and welcomed back into the magic of Loren Brae like I’d never left.
What I love most about this series, and what truly shines in this installment, is how it blends cozy, feel-good magic with deeply personal character journeys. Liora’s story especially resonated with me. Her desire to follow a spiritual path, her struggles with self-trust, and her tendency to leap before she looks felt incredibly real and relatable. There were moments in her relationships, particularly with her sister, that mirrored dynamics in my own life in a way that really surprised me.
The romance is just as compelling. Tricia O'Malley has such a gift for writing supportive, emotionally present male leads, and Torin is no exception. The dynamic between him and Liora - especially with the magical twist that forces complete honesty - adds both humor and vulnerability in a way that feels fresh and engaging.
And of course, the magic of this world is as enchanting as ever! From the Order of Caledonia and its powerful women members, to the returning animal companions and familiar faces (Sir Buster continues to steal every scene), this book feels rich with life, connection, and continuity. There’s something so comforting about returning to a place where magic is woven into everyday life, where even the smallest characters and creatures feel meaningful.
What stood out to me most, though, was the sense of found family and belonging. Every character brings something unique, and yet they all come together in a way that feels supportive, warm, and genuine. It’s the kind of world you don’t just read about, you really wish you could step into it!
As always, this story delivers a satisfying and heartfelt journey, complete with high stakes, emotional growth, and a beautifully earned happily ever after.
This might honestly be my favorite in the series so far & it left me feeling inspired to trust myself more, follow what I love, and embrace the magic in my own life, even when things don’t go perfectly.
The order is almost complete and the Kelpies are getting angrier. Such a good series. I love every character and their special bond. I can’t wait to see what comes next!
I had the pleasure of reading an ARC of Wild Scottish Magic, and it was such a fun, lovely, escapist read. The mix of magic and romance made it really easy to get swept up in the story, and I found myself happily dipping back into it whenever I had the chance.
As someone who’s actually Scottish, I had a little giggle at the glossary at the start…but I also loved all the familiar nods throughout (yes, the Irn-Bru mentions did make me smile 😝)
I haven’t read any of the earlier books in the series (this is book 9), but that wasn’t an issue at all, so I’d happily say it works as a standalone.
Overall, I really enjoyed the storyline and would absolutely recommend it if you’re looking for something easy to get lost in. It was a genuinely fun and enjoyable read.
This was my least favorite of the series sadly. I didn't mind the instant love part but was disappointed that there was not a lot of detail of Liora's power. There was less emphasis on her 3 challenges unlike previous books as well. Also, there was no acknowledgement after the end fight with the trees moving for Torin. I am excited to read Agnes and Graham's story with the little cliffhanger of their situation that wasn't given out loud in Liora's chart read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
I enjoyed the book, I did find the FMC a bit to immature at times, the story felt a little high school. Which is unusual for a Tricia character. Still enjoyed and looking forward to the next.
5/5 stars! I absolutely loved WildScottish Magic. Wild Scottish Magic is book 9 in The Enchanted Series. I have read all 9 books in the series and they are all 5/5 stars! I am very excited for the next book in the series but I don’t want this series to be over. It has become one of my cozy comfort reads. I could not put this book down and finished reading it in one day. I absolutely loved Wild Scottish Magic but I cannot wait for Wild Scottish Fate, Agnes & Grahams book. Which will be the final book in The Enchanted Highlands series. Wild Scottish Magic is releasing April 14, 2026. Thank you so much to Tricia O’Malley for the opportunity to read an advanced of this book.
NOTE - This is a temporary review. 2/3 of the way through writing my review for Wild Scottish Magic, my MacBook decided to upgrade in the middle of the night. It ended up wiping what I'd written of my review... So, here's a temporary 'review' in its space for what I used in my Instagram post caption.
I will attempt to re-write my proper review, hopefully with more eloquence, in the near future.
Apologies, and thank you for understanding!
How contented I feel to come home to Loren Brae & those within it, I cannot describe enough.
It—like this series—has long since enchanted me and has given me a fictional place to come to where my head, heart & soul all find themselves at total peace. Comfort.
A place I’d move to with zero hesitation, if it were real.
Not for the reason you’d think, either. Yes, the fictional men of the town—as well as those who move to it—are a big draw, but they are but only one reason I’d up sticks & live there.
It’s the people. Their magic. Their stories. The delightful, if not otherworldly, creatures that dwell there, they too have rooted themselves inside me so deeply that I never plan to remove or forget them.
Tricia has created something so real, as real as something fictional can get, with each element that makes up this series, it’s firmly cemented itself as a favourite of mine for life.
Having these books, characters and stories to come back to whenever I need to feel the call to come home? It’s truly a feeling like no other.
A feeling that’s only heightened with this read.
Torin & Liora, they were a pairing appropriate of their book title. Magic.
Saying only that one word about them feels like I’m doing them a great disservice, but it’s true. They. Are. 𝑚𝑎𝑔𝑖𝑐.
Having read all nine books currently available in the series, I can say with great assurance that they—and their story—have shot up into the top end of my favourite couples. Why? You’ll have to wait for my review to find out. I’ve more to say about them than just ‘magic’, you’ll see.
Honourable mention goes to Bracken, the squirrel. Hands down my favourite familiar.
Thank you again, Tricia, for reminding me via this read why I’m proud to call you an author of mine for life.
Wild Scottish Magic, the ninth book in Tricia O’Malley’s The Enchanted Highlands series, vividly depicts Loren Brae, a fictional Scottish Highlands town rooted in rich magical history. Scotland's mythical creatures provide an enchanting setting that immerses readers in lush landscapes and sensory details like the scent of foliage crossing the loch. This detailed world-building, capturing both the beauty of the land and its mystical essence, has been a key reason I’ve followed the series from the start, and O’Malley’s careful depiction of the wilderness continues to impress, making the Highland landscape a vital character in the story.
Beyond the scenery, the series’ strength lies in its characters, both magical and mundane who bring their unique charm. Returning residents feel welcoming, almost offering a chat and Irn-Bru, emphasizing the town’s warm, lively community. The central story revolves around second chances whether it is romance, belonging, and self-acceptance for Liora as she returns to Loren Brae in the wake of a viral scandal on ‘witchtok’. Her journey reflects the challenge of reclaiming her place amidst a town that has moved on yet still harbours faint echoes of her past scandal. Her experience is relatable; she arrives lost and haunted by a misunderstanding, needing reassurance and a support system. (I did however find the term pocketbook being used a little confusing and did wonder if Liora had been in the US prior to returning home?)
Her story intertwines with Torin, a gentle giant and part of a scandal that had had Liora leaving years before – and is now her landlord. His unintentional involvement in her life, including being the target of her miscast spell, leads to truths that challenge her view of her past, present, and future. Their chemistry develops naturally; both physically and emotionally and helps them both form a connection based on honesty and camaraderie as well as a deep attraction for one another. Torin’s genuine kindness makes him a perfect match, especially needed by Liora who is hesitant about her growing attraction to someone whose previous happiness she feels she ruined. However, Torin isn’t the only male in her life, even before we meet Torin, we meet Bracken, a small squirrel I know readers will love because he’s adorable and claims Liora as his as her familiar.
As Liora integrates into the magical community, she discovers her true capabilities and the truth about her magical capabilities, and you can see as she finds friends and a sense of belonging; that she also finds a peace within herself. The support of her familiar and newfound friends helps her embrace her magical abilities, shifting from uncertainty to confidence by the story’s epilogue. Watching her grow from early doubts to self-assuredness, especially during the epilogue, is particularly rewarding.
Of course, in the series and this book, there are underlying problems with the magical beings that inhabit the country, especially the Kelpies, who inhabit the loch, hinting at larger conflicts to come. Their elusive desire and the question of what they want, set the stage for book ten — promising more revelations. One of my favourite characters is Angus, a ghostly Highland cow, who adds comic relief and charm, embodying the whimsical nature of the series' magical creatures. The magical community, with its familiars and legendary beings, teases a brewing storm of chaos and adventure. Wild Scottish Magic may be my favourite so far, as the stakes continue to rise with ongoing mysteries linked to Scottish legends. The magical beings’ actions threaten to bring chaos to Loren Brae, and I eagerly await what’s next.
O’Malley’s storytelling balances enchanting myth, engaging characters, and an evocative setting, delivering a captivating read that celebrates Scottish magic and community. Wild Scottish Magic blends myth with modern themes of redemption and self-discovery. I love the vibrant community where magical and human worlds intersect amid beautiful landscapes and lively characters. The novel highlights how returning home is more than physical — it’s about reconciling with one’s past, embracing one’s identity, and welcoming second chances. Filled with charming familiars, mischievous creatures, and heartfelt relationships, the story invites readers into a magical Highlands that feels both alive and unpredictable. As new mysteries unfold and legendary beings stir trouble, the series promises even greater adventures ahead.
Not All Love Burns—Some of It Builds Something Beautiful!
"I spent so long thinking love should be loud," I whispered. "A lightning strike—something that either saved you or burned you down... And instead it's this. Building a squirrel house on a quiet winter morning."
I honestly don’t know how Tricia O’Malley does it, but she always seems to reach into the chaos of my thoughts and pull out something clear, beautiful, and profoundly true. When she puts those thoughts to paper, they become poetic, grounded, and deeply moving. Whether she’s writing about the Irish descendants of a Pirate Queen or the magic-soaked residents of a Scottish village, her stories feel like they were written to mend the quiet, broken places in our hearts.
Tricia's gift shines brightly in the latest installment of her Enchanted Highlands series, Wild Scottish Magic. The moment it hit my Kindle, every other book in my TBR pile was abandoned. I couldn’t wait to return to Loren Brea—to its magic, its love, and its fight to survive against rampaging Kelpies.
It felt like coming home. Back to the Tipsy Thistle, the heart of the village. Back to the castle and its wild collection of magical creatures. And especially to Braken—my new favorite—a sassy, opinionated squirrel who only speaks (telepathically, of course) to his witch, Liora.
Liora is everything I love in one of Tricia’s warrior women: powerful, imperfect, and wonderfully human. She stumbles, she fumbles, and she seems to attract chaos like a magnet. And yet, somehow, she is exactly the witch Loren Brea needs. Only Tricia O’Malley could take a character who can barely keep her own life together and make her the key to saving everyone else—and make it feel completely believable.
And then there’s Torin. Sigh...
A forester who speaks more easily to trees than people, Torin is Liora’s perfect opposite—and somehow, her perfect match. Only Tricia could bring together two such mismatched souls and make them feel inevitable. Only Torin sees beauty in Liora’s chaos, and when he speaks of her… well, my heart didn’t stand a chance. "You see the world through possibility. People like you… you open doors without asking them to knock first. That’s a precious thing."
Be still, my beating heart.
At its core, this story is less about magic and more about love—the quiet, steady kind that builds rather than burns. While there is still danger, including a jaw-dropping, heart-pounding battle between good and evil that reminds us exactly why the Order of Caledonia exists, this installment leans more into emotion than action. And honestly? I didn’t mind one bit. I was so wrapped up in Liora and Torin that everything else faded into the background.
Still, it was thrilling to see the return of Tricia’s fierce warrior women and their equally formidable partners as they came together for an epic, unforgettable showdown.
And Loren Brea itself? I am completely enchanted.
From a ghostly coo who laughs at his own mischief, to a chihuahua convinced he rules the kingdom, to a whole parade of quirky, lovable familiars—this world is bursting with charm, humor, and heart.
I never want to leave.
Thank you, Tricia, for the magic, love, and light you bring to my dreary world. Keep writing, and I, your devoted fan, will keep reading!
Tricia O’Malley has done it again. I started the Wild Scottish [...] series only a mere month or two ago and instantly fell in love. Magic? Thank you. Scotland? Yes please. Hot men? Absolutely! And a fierce, feminist group of characters who build on love, female friendship and independence? Give it to me now! Each time I read a new book in the series, I can’t quite believe that they could get better than the last. And yet they do. Wild Scottish Magic is no exception. The underlying story of the Order of Caledonia building to save Loren Brae against ancient beings that threaten the town continues, with new layers as the ongoing drama increases, becoming more surprising and shocking, with twists and turns that you could never predict. When we reach the crescendo in this particular novel, my jaw dropped and a sob escaped me, not in sadness, but in pure love for the series, its development and a story defining moment of friendship and female power, supported by the character’s partners that we meet along the way and their curious, magical friends. It’s hard to not feel like you are one of them, with our love and fondness for each of the characters that we have met along the journey. Our main female protagonist is Liora - a Loren Brae former local, she returns to the town after her life is turned upside down. After every novel, I find myself mulling over how much I relate to the female character. Whether it be their uncertainty with life, their stoic approach or down to some cases as being a curvaceous woman. But none so deeply as Liora, with her lack of confidence, her feeling of being the outsider and being “too much” or “too chaotic”; always the common denominator in her life’s dramas. It wouldn’t be a WIld Scottish [...] book without a sizzlingly hot male love interest. I must know what is in the water (apart from Kelpies) of Loren Brae and how can I grab a sip? Apart from the majority of them being the typical highlander, with kilt tropes and muscles galore, often they are quite unique as characters when it comes to typical romance novels. This time, O’Malley leans into the tropes with the lumberjack, solitary amongst the trees but still with the ability to make our heart flutter and butterflies flap in our stomachs. His love, support and adoration of Liora is something to behold, and a deep sigh echoes from you as you just wish Torin was real and yours. (If I say it enough, I'll manifest it right?) There’s finally to say the ultimate character of this novel… Bracken. A funny, cheeky and quick witted red squirrel and Liora’s surprising familiar. Again, the magical beings that come along get better and better and Bracken provides actual laugh-out-loud moments, followed by un-ladylike snorts of humour. Wild Scottish Magic is a fantastic addition to the series, building on the ever increasing clever storyline, with sexy open door moments and swoon worthy interactions. Is it possible to give it more than 5 stars? I cannot wait for the next (and final) novel in the series, to see what happens… but I’m also sad it is coming to an end and will be lost without Loren Brae in my life.
This installment in the Enchanted Highlands series delivers exactly what the series is known for: a cozy, whimsical escape filled with romance, magic, and a vividly drawn Scottish setting. Even as a later entry, it works well as a standalone, though there is a clear sense of a larger story continuing beneath the surface.
The story follows Liora, a woman whose lifelong passion for astrology has never quite worked out the way she hoped. Her readings tend to go spectacularly wrong, and after a public setback, she returns to Loren Brae hoping for a fresh start. What she finds instead is a place where her magic finally begins to make sense, and where her connection to the universe feels more tangible than ever. Her journey toward self acceptance and belonging is at the heart of the story, and it is one of the best parts.
Torin, our hero, brings a quieter, steadier presence. He is reserved, thoughtful, and grounded in a way that contrasts with Liora’s more chaotic energy. On paper, they complement each other well, and there are moments where that balance shines. The relationship does lean heavily into instant attraction vibe, and while the chemistry is clear, the emotional buildup is not always given the space it needs to fully evovle. So, they are believable in connection, even if it doesnt' feel DEEP to me.
The novel also juggles several plot threads at once, from magical mishaps and personal growth to lingering threats within the supernatural world. At times, this creates a sense of overcrowding, with certain conflicts introduced but resolved too quickly or without enough depth. Still, the overarching mythology, particularly the hints of something more dangerous lurking beneath the loch, adds intrigue and keeps the larger series arc compelling. And I just love this whole world so.
As always, Tricia excels in setting/atmosphere. Like in every story, Loren Brae feels alive, filled with charm, eccentric characters, and a strong sense of community. The found family is always a highlight as familiar faces and magical companions add personality and fun. This series always embraces its whimsy rather than shying away from it, making the story an easy, entertaining read that does not take itself too seriously.
The audiobook as always is fantastic. I just love Will Watt so much. Scottish PRINCE! And Amy Landon is fantastic as well. They capture both the humor and emotional moments, their performances bring Liora and Torin to life in a way that makes the world feel even more vivid and engaging.
Overall, this is a light, magical romance with a strong sense of place and an ongoing mystery that continues to build. The charm of the setting, the warmth of the community, and the sweet romance make it an enjoyable addition to the series.
Thanks to NetGalley and author Tricia O’Malley for an Advanced Reader Copy - pub date 4/14/2026. Well, darn. Now I have 8 other books on my TBR. Yes, this is the 9th book in the Enchanted Highlands Series by Tricia O’Malley but, no, it’s not too bad to jump into things here. I’m living proof that you can roll with it and have fun with this series wherever you jump. Of course, like I said, now I have to read the others because I want more backstory on some of these fabulous side characters. The main characters in THIS one, however, are Liora and Torin. She’s a chaotic mess of sunshine and low self esteem and good intentions. He’s a quiet tower of slight grump who finds it easier to talk to the trees in his forest than people. Add some awkward backstory where one of Liora’s astrological readings blew up his relationship (it actually didn’t but it made for a good excuse by the ex) and started some unsavory cheating rumors. Put them in forced proximity as she rents a wing of his cottage from him upon her return to the magical place she once called home. Oh, and a really awkwardly timed just-for-larks truth spell. It’s kind of basic stuff but it ends up being actual magic in O’Malley’s hands.
And we’re not even talking about the Order of Caledonia which pings my Magical Girl heart. Can we say Scottish Mythology Meets Sailor Moon? Oh, yes, we can.
I admit that I was a bit unsure at the start as Liora set herself up to be incredibly frustrating in the first chapter or so. Too childish and stubborn about her astrology and how much she loved reading charts and screw everyone who, like, totally misunderstands her and the mess she leaves behind. What kind of adult needs to have her nose constantly rubbed in the fact that, while you might love something, it might not be for you? But then she grew on me and I realized that was kind of more symptomatic of a bigger problem. Yes, Liora is messy and heedless about some things and stubborn about sometimes the wrong things but she is also kind and caring and full of joy… plus lots of self esteem issues buried down. It is not easy to be the Family Screw-Up with a Terrifyingly Competent Older Sister. It takes time and character growth, lots of self-reflection, something bigger than her, and Torin but she becomes a downright wonderful, layered, messy-sweet human.
Torin, on the other hand, needs less growth and we should all climb him like a tree. Yet he still has his own arc, aided by the inconvenient truth spell which just speeds up his forthright self-reflection. Good stuff and believable.
Thank you to author Tricia O’Malley for an Advanced Reader Copy - publishing date 4/14/2026.
Yes, this is the 9th book in the Enchanted Highlands Series by Tricia O’Malley but, fret not, you can easily jump in here and have 8 wonderful books to pick up and read later. I read book 1 and then jumped back into the series now with Liora and Torin's story. With a whole host of characters to enjoy, this will make you want to read the entire series just to get those touches of backstory for all the members of the Order of Caledonia.
Let's jump into the main reason for this book, however, Liora and Torin. She’s a thirty year old woman coming back home to be closer to her sister after a slew of professional bad luck. She lacks confidence and self-esteem, leaning on her sister for support. He’s a burly quiet man who finds the forest to be better company than people. With a sprinkle of backstory that provides reasonable wariness about why the two may not want to be seen together, a forced proximity situation as she rents a wing of his cottage from him upon her return to the magical place she once called home, and a poorly timed truth spell gone wrong hitting an unintended recipient, it makes for a compelling story that keeps you flipping the page.
Oh, and would it be a Tricia O'Malley book without a fun little critter companion? Of course not! Enter Bracken the Squirrel who is just a wonderful addition. Torin's interactions with the little critter will melt even the stoniest of hearts.
I will admit I was a little taken aback at how easily Torin accepted everything that was happening around him. For the supposed grump of the story, he was actually fairly easy-going, doing whatever he could to help boost Liora even as she continued to self-destruct and push him away. I almost feel like he's undeserving of the title grump, but it does not detract from the story of Liora and Torin.
My one minor grievance, well, possibly two, is that I wish we got to spend just a bit more time with Liora's sister and their dynamic. Hand in hand with that is the grandmother's grimoire. I feel it could have been a compelling tool that added to the sisterhood portion of the story.
Overall, this book is fantastic and fits in well with the other 8, building a well-rounded world in which every member has their spotlight.
Wild Scottish Magic by Tricia O'Malley, audiobook in dual narration by Amy Landon and Will Watt, is a Fantasy Paranormal Romance filled with mischief, magic, and mayhem
Liora is a witch who can't seem to control her magic, which causes her more trouble than good. Driven away from her village because of a wrong prediction, she was blamed for the end of a well-known couple's breakup, twisted by lies to make the woman look like she was scorned and not at fault for the demise of the relationship. Humiliated, Liora moved away for years and continued to have bad luck, which drove her back to where all her troubles began.
Things were looking up when her sister found her a room in a nice cottage to rent with a roommate. It was cute, cozy, and seemed perfect. Until she met the owner, her roommate Torin, who was one of the people from that disaster of a reading that drove her out of the area to begin with. To make matters worse, before her new roommate discovered her, she had, oddly, found her grandmother's Grimoire (a personal book of spells and potions) on one of the shelves of Torin's bookcase and seen her name written on its pages. Curious, as she thumbed through the pages, she decided to try out a little spell. A truth spell that looked simple and innocent. The problem with any spell is that it needs to go somewhere, and when her new roommate walks in, surprised to see the woman who ruined his reputation years ago, he is hit with the spell. As mad as he was at Liora, he cannot lie, and the words that come out of his mouth are not what either of them expects.
"It was like I was living in black and white, and you put a box of crayons to color in my empty spaces."
Expectations
Grumpy x Sunshine Lumberjack x Witch Roommates Forced Proximity Truth Curse gone wrong Misguided Magic Squirrel Familiar A Unicorn! Blind Sister New Found Friends Fates Aligned Old Wounds Reopened Family Discourse Spice
A contemporary paranormal romance filled with Scottish lore, magical beasts, and a complicated relationship. It's fast-paced and fun with a bit of sadness. This couple goes through it, and it pulls at the heartstrings. An enjoyable story that includes different representations of people and Scottish culture.
Thank you to NetGalley and Dreamscape Select | Lovewrite Publishing for the advanced audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
Rating: 5/5 I received an ALC for my honest opinion.
We’re taken back to Loren Brae, where a group of powerful magical women are tasked with protecting a magical stone and keeping the guardians in line. This village is full of magic, surprises, love, forgiveness, and so much more. This is book nine in the Enchanted Highland series, and in this installment, we follow Liora and Torin. While these books can be read as standalones, trust me, you’ll want to dive into the entire series.
Liora and Torin have a complicated past, and it’s far from a happy one. Liora left the village believing she would never return, but after a troubling reading that spreads across the internet, she finds herself drawn back. Their history is filled with tension, regret, and unresolved feelings, and I really appreciated how naturally that unfolded throughout the story. Their dynamic isn’t simple, which makes every interaction feel meaningful. There’s a strong emotional push and pull between them, and watching them navigate their past while questioning if there’s still something worth holding onto kept me completely invested.
Liora is strong and determined, striving to follow her spiritual path while still struggling to trust her own abilities. As she begins to accept her flaws, she starts to realize that her magic may be rooted in chaos and that chaos might be exactly what’s needed. I loved how raw and real her character felt. She stumbles, falls, gets back up, and keeps going.
Torin is her opposite in many ways, valuing order and control. When he’s affected by a truth spell, he’s forced to confront his feelings and show Liora just how much her chaos means to him. There’s real growth, accountability, and healing between them, and I loved that the author gave those moments the time and space they deserved. It made their relationship feel authentic and ultimately more satisfying.
One of the things I love most about this series is the strong sense of found family, powerful female friendships, and the feeling of belonging woven throughout each book. From the magical women to the animal companions, O’Malley has created such a comforting and immersive world. I do have to say, though Bracken completely stole my heart. He might just be my favorite companion yet, and his banter was such a highlight.
I received the audio of this book and hands down Amy Landon and Will Watt will forever be one of my favorite narrators, they know how to really bring a book to life for the readers.
I want to thank NetGalley and Dreamscape for the opportunity to review this book.
There’s something utterly enchanting about stepping into one of Wild Scottish Magic — it feels like being handed a warm drink, a soft blanket, and a front-row seat to a world where anything just might happen. Set in the magical village of Loren Brae, this story brings together everything I adore in a romantic fantasy: a tight-knit community, a dash of chaos, and a heroine you can’t help but root for. Liora is a beautifully messy character, full of heart and self-doubt, trying to find her place after life hasn’t quite gone to plan. Watching her journey toward confidence and belonging is both uplifting and quietly emotional. And then there’s Torin… oh my. A grumpy, grounded, tree-loving hero who balances Liora’s whirlwind energy perfectly. Their chemistry is warm, natural, and threaded with humour, especially when magic goes slightly or spectacularly wrong. Forced proximity, a misfired spell, and lingering past tension? Yes please. One of my absolute favourite touches was the way this story brings in so many familiar faces from earlier in the series. There are scenes where a whole collection of characters come together, and it feels like catching up with old friends. It adds such a rich sense of community and makes the world feel even more alive and connected. What really makes this book shine is its atmosphere. The Scottish setting feels vibrant and full of charm, with quirky characters and magical moments tucked into every corner. The strong found family thread gives the story a cosy, comforting heartbeat, while themes of second chances and self-acceptance add real depth beneath the whimsy. I also experienced this as an audiobook, and it was an absolute treat. The narration brings an extra layer of magic, with both narrators doing a wonderful job, but the male narrator in particular truly stood out. His voice captured the tone, humour, and emotion beautifully and made the listening experience even more immersive. If I had to pick a tiny niggle, it would be that some emotional moments could have lingered just a little longer… but honestly, the warmth, humour, and magic more than make up for it. This is one of those books that leaves a sparkle behind when you close it. My thanks go to Netgalley and Dreamscape Select for the ARC of this book.
"It was like I was living in black and white, and you’ve brought a box of crayons to color in my empty spaces.”
Another trip to Loren Brae, another day of magic. Wild Scottish Magic is the ninth book in Tricia O'Malley's Enchanted Highland series, which follows a group of magical women who are tasked with keeping a magical stone safe and its kelpie guardians in check.
Nine books in and the cozy, uplifting, magical vibes are still strong. Nine books in, and we're still gifted with unique, flawed, beautiful characters who leave you smiling and hopeful for what's to come. Unlike our previous heroines and heroes, Liora and Torin have a history, and it isn't a good one. After her professional life implodes, Liora returns home to Loren Brae, only to discover in less than 24 hours that she comes from a line of witches, has and can use magic, and the room rental her sister secured her is in the house of the man whose life she unintentionally ruined years earlier. She was such a relatable character, as we've all felt like screw ups at least a few times in our lives. It hurt that she thought so little of herself, but Torin, at the mercy of a truthfulness curse and his own earnestness, was constantly showing her just how wonderful her brand of chaos and her giant heart were.
“You’re not in charge of everything. Just your part. And your part, as far as I can tell, is giving people courage. They decide what to do with it.”
I loved seeing our wonderful warrior women working together to save the day, their men there to support and help where needed. I loved the return of some side characters who deserve all the love they were given, as well as all of the familiars together causing trouble. And while it frustrated me to no end that we're still missing pieces of it, I loved getting more glimpses at Agnes and Graham's story. I'm dying to finally read their story, but I know the build up will be worth it.
Thank you Tricia O'Malley for the ARC, and thank you for another warm trip to Loren Brae where the women kick butt, the ghost coos play pranks, and one of the best found families lives to fight and love another day.
Wild Scottish Magic by Tricia O’Malley was such a cozy, magical escape that perfectly blended small-town charm, romance, and a touch of whimsy.
The setting of Loren Brae completely drew me in—it’s one of those towns that feels alive with secrets, meddling neighbors, and quiet magic humming beneath the surface. It gave me all the cozy, curl-up-with-a-blanket vibes I want from a romantasy like this.
Liora was a compelling and relatable heroine. She’s starting over, a little lost, and trying to figure out where she went wrong—not just in life, but in her magic. Watching her growth and self-discovery unfold felt authentic and rewarding.
And Torin? Absolute grumpy hero perfection. The “he can’t lie” curse added such a fun and unique twist to their dynamic. It brought humor, tension, and some genuinely emotional moments—because those unfiltered truths? They hit. The grumpy/sunshine pairing worked so well, and the fake relationship trope was executed in a way that felt both cozy and engaging.
The romance leans more sweet than spicy, but it’s full of heart and emotional connection, which fits the tone of the story perfectly.
If I had one small critique, it’s that parts of the plot felt a bit predictable, and I would’ve loved slightly higher stakes toward the end. But overall, it still delivered exactly what I wanted: comfort, magic, and a satisfying happily-ever-after.
🎧 The audiobook narration by Amy Landon and Will Watt truly elevated the story. Their performances brought depth to the characters and enhanced the cozy Scottish atmosphere beautifully.
This is part of a series, but you can absolutely read it as a standalone with no confusion. That said… I enjoyed it enough that I’ll probably be going back to read the rest of the series.
Thank you to NetGalley & Dreamscape Select for the ALC! This was such a delightful listen, and I’d definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a cozy romantasy with charm, heart, and a touch of magic
Liora, with her charts and sunshine personality, rarely stumbles over self doubt. Until a reading goes wrong, and she runs back to Loren Brae seeking comfort in her sister's love. Here in Loren Brae, her heart and magic will be tested like never before, with high stakes looming and unknown creatures tormenting the village. Can Liora's magic help save the village and those she holds closest to her heart?
Torin, the grumpy Scottish lumberjack who has been on the unfavorable end of Liora's magic in the past, now finds himself under her spell. Fake dating seems the only likely answer for their awkward situation until the tension and unfiltered honesty push their boundaries.
The small village of Loren Brae needs Liora, but will she have the confidence to stroke the threads of fate? Will the Kelpies take her magic before she understands the secrets of the past?
Torin loves his trees and the quiet of the forest where he has been hiding for years. Suddenly, he finds himself at the local tavern, chatting with wildlife and losing his heart to a messy witch.
This cozy, magical romancy was just what my heart needed. I loved the banter between Liora and Torin. Their friends and familiars are a fantastic addition to this spellbinding story of love, family, and self-worth. I loved the twist and turns that brought the story to a close, and I'm anxious to leap into the next story.
Thank you, Tricia O'Malley, for the gifted ARC. I thoroughly loved Liora and Torin's story. All opinions are my own.
Wild Scottish Magic is a magical tale of Liora finding love in the unexpected, finding family in a small village, and finding herself among the threads of fate.
I love this series and am so excited to return to the magical village of Loren Brae! With each visit I love the village and the characters more and while this is book 9 it can be read as a standalone. This is a story full of friendship, acceptance, second chances, love and more than a little magic.The Kelpies seem to be growing stronger and more is revealed in this book about them and what the Order of Caledonia might need to defeat them.
Liora returns to Loren Brae after years away and finds herself living with one of the reasons she left the town, Torin. She is trying to figure out her magic and he walks into a truth telling spell that adds humor, awkwardness, and sweetness to their growing relationship. Torin is the ideal partner for Liora, he is determined to support her on her journey to find her magic, he celebrates her successes, and he wants to protect and love her always. Watching their relationship gave me all the feels and left my heart smiling. Another part of this story is family expectations and relationships as Liora and her sister Zara struggle to move beyond Zara’s perception that Liora is a disaster and needs to be protected from herself and her magic
The magical women of the Order of Caledonia and the village bring Liora into their group and watching the friendships grow and Liora figure out her magic and realize that she has found her people is a delight. The familiars of the group are so diverse and made me laugh with their antics. I love this magical town and its inhabitants and can not wait for the next book in the series.
I highly recommend this to readers that enjoy stories full of found family, acceptance, romance, and more than a little magic.
Thanks to the author for the free copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
It’s been a while since a story has made me smirk while walking down the street, but Wild Scottish Magic by Tricia O’Malley did exactly that. This was such a witty, funny, and heartwarming experience that I couldn’t get enough of. I’m giving this a 4.5-star review! ⭐⭐⭐⭐✨ A huge thank you to NetGalley, Tricia O'Malley, and the publisher for the opportunity to enjoy this ARC! All opinions expressed here are entirely my own. The Review I truly enjoyed this story; it was witty and funny, with just the right amount of spice at times which was great. Liora is a great FMC, though she is a tad insecure for obvious reasons from her past. Watching the way Torin, our beloved MMC, makes her become more sure of herself while loving her and providing her with a safe environment is amazing. It was basically just a great read all around. The Good: The character growth for Liora is beautifully handled, and Torin is the absolute dream MMC—supportive, loving, and patient. And what’s more... I also loved Bracken. What a cool familiar to have! The humor is sharp and kept me smiling throughout the entire book. The Not So Good: While Liora's insecurity is understandable given her history, there were a few moments where it felt like the plot slowed down a bit while she worked through those internal doubts. 🎧 AUDIOBOOK SPOTLIGHT The audiobook was amazing! That Scottish accent was fantastic, and the tone of both narrators truly got me into the story. If you have the chance to listen to this one, I highly recommend it—it adds such a rich layer to the setting and the characters' personalities.
I just finished ARC reading Wild Scottish Magic by Tricia O'Malley, and this is the ninth book in the Enchanted Highlands series! We're sadly almost done with it as this is book nine of ten 😭 (but book ten is going to be AMAZING, I know it!)
This one follows Liora and Torin, both Loren Brae natives, as they navigate love and personal growth together! Liora is the newest member of the Order of Caledonia, and she learns she is a Chartweaver!
Things get crazy in Loren Brae, but there is an amazing group of people and familars to help them get through everything. I know I say it every time, but these books really just get better and better! This one was SO good, and I couldn't put it down!! Also, Bracken is the best! 🐿
You'll love this book if you like: // Sisterhood and Found Family // Small-town Scotland // Self-discovery // Astrology // Roommates-to-lovers // Sunshine Witchy FMC x Grumpy Lumberjack MMC // Forced proximity // Truth spell makes him admit his feelings // Cozy fantasy, high stakes // He falls first // “I’ve got you.”
Curious about the reading order? Here's the list! 1. Wild Scottish Knight 2. Wild Scottish Love 3. A Kilt for Christmas 4. Wild Scottish Rose 5. Wild Scottish Beauty 6. Wild Scottish Fortune 7. Wild Scottish Gold 8. Wild Scottish Charm 9. Wild Scottish Magic
I have had the honor of ARC reading this entire series so far, and I am so thankful to Tricia O'Malley for the opportunity! I can't wait to read the next one!
This book just got released on April 14th, and is available to read now!
Wild Scottish Magic is a delightful, whimsical escape, beautifully blending magical elements into the present-day, cozy town setting of Loren Brae in Scotland. Liora, a hopeful astrologer who has received some tough reviews on her readings, decides to move back to Loren Brae to start over. When her sister finds her housing outside of town, she realizes she is sharing a home with Torin, a man personally affected by one of her past love-match readings. He is grumpy and brooding, preferring a life amongst the trees to facing the backlash from his destroyed relationship. When Liora tries her hand at spell casting, magic weaves its way into their relationship in the most amusing way. Can this rebuild their broken friendship? Can they become more than just friends?
Along the way, Liora learns more about the secrets of Loren Brae’s place in the magical world, and I was swept away into the storyline and her romance with Torin. While this is book 9 in The Enchanted Highlands series, I enjoyed it as a standalone. The author gives us enough of the overall timeline to take us through the story. And, I loved this book so much, I plan to read the entire series in order!
Ok, now some love for the audiobook narrators- they are spectacular! I truly feel they made this story for me, adding to the dreamy writing and really sweeping me right into the characters’ emotions and experiences. It’s absolutely top notch performing by both narrators.
Thank you Netgalley and Dreamscape Select for the review copy of this audiobook.