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Lost in Scotland

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SAMMy year didn't start so well. I discovered my boyfriend was cheating on me during the Golden Globes ceremony, of all places. After that, everything went from bad to worse. Admittedly, it was partly my fault. Now here I am, in Scotland, trying to start over. I have the chance of a lifetime, and I can't afford to get in trouble - again. Still, despite the amazing opportunity, I can’t help feeling homesick. Until I meet a stranger who catches my eye. To no one’s surprise but my own, he’s the lead actor. He’s beautiful, charming and humble and the more time we spend together, the more I find myself falling for him…but we can’t be together. I got a bad reputation, and he’s supposed to pretend to date his costar for the cameras.HUGHI’ve been chasing my big break for more than a decade, and the moment has finally arrived. I’m the lead actor on a new TV series based on a fantasy saga everyone is crazy about. Work is the only thing on my radar, until I meet her, a bonnie dark beauty with caramel skin and black hair. I can’t stop thinking about her, nor I can stay away from her, even when the producers of the shows want me and my costar to cozy up for the camera. How am I supposed not to fall for the sexy brunette who’s around me every single day? Getting lost in each other might be wrong, or it might be exactly what we need.

326 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 1, 2017

148 people are currently reading
1284 people want to read

About the author

Hilaria Alexander

17 books205 followers
Hilaria Alexander never thought she'd be a writer one day. Reader? Yes. Book hoarder? You betcha. Then, she started reading romance - that's when she felt the need to write a story. Unfortunately, she didn't listen to her gut, and talked herself out of it A MILLION TIMES. She finally gave up a few years ago, when the urge to write was stronger than self-doubt. She loves funny, sexy romances wrapped with a huge happily-ever-after bow at the end. Her inbox is always open if you want to chat about one of her books.

For upcoming teasers, samples, and all things new-release-related, sign-up for her newsletter at www.hilariaalexander.com

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 170 reviews
Profile Image for Colleen Hoover.
Author 108 books762k followers
December 8, 2017
After I chiseled my way out of prison, I brought this book with me to Scotland in case I got lost. Sure enough, I got lost. Spoilers ahead:
THIS BOOK WILL NOT TELL YOU HOW TO GET UNLOST!
If anything, I got too comfortable reading it while I was on the run and sat still too long. Got caught and thrown back in prison but I kinda missed Daisy so it's cool. Book was good. Scotland kind of ruined my life.
Profile Image for Hilaria Alexander.
Author 17 books205 followers
December 28, 2016
A couple of years ago, I fell in love with a TV show set in Scotland - like many of you did. Since then, I wanted to write a romance about a makeup artist who finds herself at an impasse and in a faraway land, away from everything she's ever known. I'm a fan of love on the set type of stories, and I wanted to see how the LA girl would fare in Scotland, with its mysterious beauty and harsh climate. Set in the fictional town of St. Martin, Lost in Scotland has every element of a good romance: a hot Scot to die for, a feisty British BFF, gossip, revenge, Hollywood drama and a grand finale.
I'm really happy at how this one turned out. The way Sam and Hugh fall for each other is just beautiful. The slow burn consumed me.
I hope you love it as much as I do.
Profile Image for MoodyJess.
430 reviews33 followers
August 11, 2017
I was sucked in right from the cover. I know you are not supposed to judge a book by its cover, but in this case, I didn't have a choice. I love Scotland-so this was a no brainer for me. LOST IN SCOTLAND by Hilaria Alexander got me jonsing for another trip to the promise land and I wish I was lost in the Highlands, too.

"The view was majestic, one of those moments that made you think God had to exist, whether you believed in him or not. It was simply too spectacular."

I can attest to this beauty, and though I have never read anything by Alexander before, I will admit, she had a knack for capturing Scotland in all its beauty. She was very detailed when it came to the scenery and I felt like the atmosphere was done justice.

Suffering from a broken heart and a dash of humiliation, not having anywhere else to go, or work, Sam heads off to Scotland to work on a production of a new show coming out, Abarath, as a Make-Up artist. After finding out her boyfriend of 7 years is cheating on her, Sam heads out to make a new name for herself-feeling alone and isolated in a new country, Sam quickly finds like minded folks on set and even catches the eye of the main lead of the show, Hugh.

Hugh has been cast as the lead in Abarath. A beloved novel that is being turned into a TV series, and he is very concerned about portraying the lead. He wants to do it justice and give the fans what they desire-authenticity. He has no time for distractions. Or so he thought! He's handsome, and rock solid, brooding and has a thick Scottish accent-what more could you ask for?!?! Though he did have some similarities to another beloved Scottish bloke I adore, his character still worked for me.

Sam and Hugh had chemistry that seriously blew me away. I felt butterflies every time they had a scene together. Due to the high demand of filming and the hush hush of their tryst, keeping their "relationship" on the down low had to happen. But they still managed to have some of the hottest sex scenes I have read in quite some time. Alexander sure knows how to write with passion.

Hugh was right when he said to Sam, "You've made the right choice, Sam. Scotland is the perfect place to start over".

Truer words had never be spoken. Even though it took Sam a while to acclimatize to the wet and dreary landscape, she settled in nicely-having her own personal tour guide/movie star always helps in these situations.

As much as I loved the story, which I did, immensely. I still found the end to be a little back and forth. I would be happy with where the story was going and then I wanted to throw my kindle at times as well. Some of the back and forth was unnecessary, and I was easily frustrated with where the story went at times. But then something like this would be said:

"I didn't have a chance against her. I had to give in. I wanted to fall for her, follow her anywhere." SWOOOOON. Or this, "Samhain, I fear ye have me ruined for every other woman." COMMON!!! How can you not fall for this man?!?!

The way in which Hugh spoke to Sam, the way he worshiped her, the things he would say, and the way he would say it kept me coming back for more and more. It was a bit touch and go for me at the start and they later towards the end, but I think Alexander pulled it together and gave us all the ending we hoped for.

I will continue to read this series, as I think there is a sequel. I cannot stop now! Two of my favourite things in life were captured in Lost in Scotland-HOT BROODING SCOTTISH MAN and SCOTLAND. I. AM. SOLD.

***Reviewed by Jess for joandisalovebooks blog***
Profile Image for Shannon.
517 reviews165 followers
April 8, 2017
I'm having a hard time with this book right now. For the first 50% or so, I was in love. So far in love. I loved Sam, I loved Hugh. I loved the plot and the setting and the secondary characters. But then everything started to unravel. Sam was suppose to be, what, 29 years old? She started acting like she was 20 and it was pretty pathetic. Hugh was great the entire way through but the story lost steam and just coasted along. Definitely lost interest at this point and the ending simply wasn't enough to real me farther back in.
Profile Image for Carol.
1,387 reviews262 followers
June 13, 2019
Hilaria Alexander is one of my favorite authors and I really like the realism that she she imparts to all of her characters and stories.
In this instance, I especially liked that she chose to draw inspiration from the Diana Gabaldon's Outlander series in the crafting of this book while still producing a totally original story that is 100% reflective of her own unique writing style and storytelling and I think it totally worked.

Below is review from the author herself and it perfectly sums up my thoughts about this book too:

"A couple of years ago, I fell in love with a TV show set in Scotland - like many of you did. Since then, I wanted to write a romance about a makeup artist who finds herself at an impasse and in a faraway land, away from everything she's ever known. I'm a fan of love on the set type of stories, and I wanted to see how the LA girl would fare in Scotland, with its mysterious beauty and harsh climate. Set in the fictional town of St. Martin, Lost in Scotland has every element of a good romance: a hot Scot to die for, a feisty British BFF, gossip, revenge, Hollywood drama and a grand finale.
I'm really happy at how this one turned out. The way Sam and Hugh fall for each other is just beautiful. The slow burn consumed me."
Profile Image for ItaPixie.
1,273 reviews148 followers
February 7, 2017

This was a lovely,easy read.
I went into it completely blind,I didn't know what to expect but I've really enjoyed this book.

The story has a great flow and Hilaria's writing always so vivid and thorough made me fall in love with the wonderful scottish landscape.

The main characters and their families and friends are really entertaining.They will make you smile,laugh,lust and some of them will piss you off.
Hugh and Sam's journey starts as a work relationships then evolves into a refreshing friendship but their chemistry is always lingering from their first encounter til the end.

I think I'm one of the few people that haven't watched Outlander but after I've read Lost in Scotland I can't stay away from scottish men anymore.


Copy kindly provided by the Publisher/Author.

Profile Image for CeCe.
3,612 reviews109 followers
February 13, 2017
I got the sample and it did not pull me enough to want to pay $2.99 for the book.

The heroine irritated me. It could have been so good. I loved the premise.

The story starts in January. Sam, the heroine lives in Hollywood with her boyfriend, Eric, who she has been dating for 7 years. Eric is in a show that has been nominated for a Golden Globe. When Eric's show wins, he first kisses his co-star, Quinn. Then when Eric wins best actor, he forgets to thank the heroine, Sam. Sam is a little upset, but accepts it. (Not the smartest). Anyway, then Sam goes back stage to meet Eric and sees him kissing his co-star, Quinn. She gets upset, but does not tell him that she caught him. Instead she pretends to be ill and goes home. Next chapter is set in August. Something happened with Eric and Sam, the reader is not sure except that Sam and Eric broke up and he threatened that it would be hard for her to find a job. (Loc 730) Sam is in Scotland where she finally found a job. There she runs into a guy hiking that she thinks is hot. Blah, blah, blah.

This just was not for me. I loved the premise, but between the heroine and all her inner babble, I had no interest in buying the book for $2.99 and reading it.

Some of the information was repeated and I only got the sample which is the first 9-10% of the book. How many times do you have to tell me that your sister, the famous Amira, is three years younger than you??? (Sample Loc 212 & 594)

Then there is a section where Sam was reminiscing about the cheating Eric. (Sample Loc 789, 825, 815, & 790)

Then there is everything and more I would ever need to know about Sam's mother, father & Amira. (Sample Loc 757, 808, & 765)

You may love this. I am not telling you not to read it. I am just indicating why it did not work for me. Reading is subjective.
Profile Image for Aaly.
1,358 reviews56 followers
February 4, 2017
*** ARC kindly provided for an honest review. ***

review-blog




I had to say that Hilaria Alexander made one of dreams come true with Lost in Scotland, writing about this story about a makeup artist and the sexy hot scot who’s gonna steal her heart, in freaking Scotland, on a new TV series based on a fantasy saga .

Right up my alley! The blurb was definitely catching my attention and when I started to read it … No way I was going to put this book down!
I was afraid that my enthusiasm mood would fall flat but it wasn’t. I was already read to pack and move to that place. It could have been a typical movie star romance but it wasn’t. This story was told in a smart and refreshing way. When I was expected the hero, Hugh to be someone unattainable, I was totally taken aback. Damn I have a crush!

Hugh was living his passion, and being on a set of one of the most expected show put a lot of pressure. His goal was to play his part and focus on his career, until a sassy and witty woman came into his life.  I really appreciated this character, Hugh was not the usual actor and it was so good. Down to earth, close to his family, passionate and kind. A man full of mystery and intriguing.

enlight1-22
Sam was trying to get through a lot of things. After leaving her cheating boyfriend and some angry payback later, she finally found a way to breathe. What about a trip to Scotland for a fresh start? F eisty, witty, caring for her family and totally a badass. She had to move on and this job was the opportunity to be what she wanted to be, away from all the craziness.

enlight1-20

Oh my these two … sparks will fly! The chemistry and banter were off the charts. The building tension and flirty banter was really great. The attraction was intense but it was so much more than that, definitely beyond the physical, the constant need and craving for each other. Just gave me goosebumps at times.


enlight1-19


This story was a breath of fresh air, with magnificent scenery places, giving you the need to travel and to be part of this trip. Lost in Scotland was such a beautiful journey about finding yourself, full of romantic vibes, with a hot Scot and the woman who stole this heart. I laughed, I swooned and I almost cried but it was so worth it.



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Profile Image for Ashley.
561 reviews252 followers
February 6, 2017
Read full review and find links to purchase here: https://5171milesbookblog.wordpress.c...

Lost in Scotland was my first book by author, Hilaria Alexander. It is a delicious and fun story about, Sam, a makeup artist from Los Angeles. After Sam catches her boyfriend cheating with her friend and producer of the show she works for, she concocts an elaborate plan for revenge. Her plan doesn’t seem to have the effect she desired, however, because Sam ends up losing her job in the process. This forces her to take on a job in Scotland, where she meets and slowly starts falling for the star of the new show she works for, Hugh MacLeod. The problem with this attraction is the crew and cast members are prohibited from having romantic relationships, leaving Sam with yet another dilemma. Besides, she can’t have Hugh and her co-workers knowing about her sordid past.

“People say life is stranger than fiction. I had been in the make-believe business for a while, and I had forgotten that sometimes life can be better than the greatest love stories of the silver screen.”

As a lover of Outlander, I was eager to get my hands on this novel. I love stories set abroad, with vivid descriptions of lands I’ve been unable to travel to. Unfortunately, I didn’t feel as if the picture of Scotland formed too well in my mind with this book. I was hoping for more traipsing around the country, based on the title of the book, but it was lacking, in my opinion. As a bit of a picky reader, I hope for the stories I read to trigger more feelings within me, and Lost in Scotland did not quite do it for me. The depth was wasn’t there. In parts I found the story to be too descriptive, though not descriptive about to setting as much I was yearning for, and a tad repetitive. I, personally, did not feel my expectations were met with this book based upon the blurb and title.

However, I did enjoy the pop culture references, the humor, and I liked learning about the role of makeup artists on the sets of tv shows and films. It felt like a unique take on a “Hollywood” relationship. I had never thought about how actors may be forced to pretend to have a relationship with a fellow actor to push fans to loving their tv show or movie more. I’m sure this happens in Hollywood all the time- just look at Jennifer Lawrence and Bradley Cooper, or Emma Stone and Ryan Gosling. The story also had a very sweet ending, which made me give a higher rating than I initially thought I would give.

I think lovers of Outlander looking for something lighter than the thousand pages of Diana Gabaldon’s books will love Lost in Scotland. If you’re looking for a fun and easy read, set somewhere other than the usual run-of-the-mill locations like New York City, then you will love this book. Get Lost in Scotland!
Profile Image for Maïwenn B.
309 reviews2 followers
Read
February 10, 2017
Lost in Scotland will make you discover landscapes so wonderfully described that you will feel like you're there with the characters.
I definitely want to go there and visit, hike, see those beautiful sceneries Hilaria had painted so clearly.

The story in itself was amazing, consistent and I loved all the "behind the scene" world we got to read about. It was all believable and very well researched !

I loved every single word until we hit the last part of the book. As much as I loved both characters I couldn't understand Sam's behaviour. Well I kind of understood but at the same time I didn't. It didn't ruin the book for me, I knew Sam had to do the thing she did for herself and it gave us their happy ending so at the end of the day that what mattered!

A 6 stars for the journey I took with this story. A 3,5 stars for the whole story!
Profile Image for Archives of Jina.
568 reviews204 followers
May 22, 2019
Oh my God. This book. I LOVE this book. Definitely one of my favorite romance books to date.
I'm going to have warm fuzzy feeling all day.
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Profile Image for Tania's Book Blog.
1,720 reviews21 followers
February 8, 2017
**ARC received in exchange for an honest review**

This was a beautiful love story.

Sam was an American makeup artist that went to Scotland to get over her cheating ex that she wasted 7 long years with when she meets handsome Scot, Hugh Macleod, an actor.

It was love at first sight for Hugh but he didn't want to rush anything. As for Sam, she was attracted to Hugh but didn't want to rush anything because of what happened with her douchebag ex. They tried to hide their growing attraction from others on the set and tried to maintain it hidden as much as possible but of course they were terrible actors.

What I liked about this book was that it was low on drama and focused on how two individuals got to know each other before sleeping together. Sam got revenge on her ex which I laughed my a$$ off when I read what she did which was very epic. I'm glad he wasn't in the picture anymore nor mentioned. Hugh was swoony and Sam was bada$$. I really liked both of them and her friend Cecilia, hilarious!!
Both their families were also supportive and beautiful.
Profile Image for anna.
612 reviews36 followers
July 22, 2017
I don't know how I managed to find this, but it was a fun experience reading it and bonus points for centering around actors and fame and such. And being set mostly in Scotland.
And I don't care that Outlander the tv show actually exists in the timeline, I couldn't help but picture Sam Heughan as Hugh.
And I enjoyed it.
Profile Image for Wendy.
1,027 reviews11 followers
February 4, 2017
4.5 stars
This might be my favorite read from Hilaria. I loved everything about this book from the characters to the storyline to the writing.

Sam is looking to start over after some love drama happened back home in the US. So she accepts a job as a makeup artist on a tv show in Scotland. She is hoping that this will help her career and help her with herself. Hugh is the lead actor on this tv show. He is hoping that this will finally be his big break into the industry. What neither expected was the other. What will happen when these two interact day in and day out?

I couldn’t get enough of this book. I was sucked in from the first page. This book was about Hugh and Sam’s relationship and how it would all play out. No major drama or craziness to make it over the top. Just an honest romance and I loved it. I liked how Hilaria built up the connection between Hugh and Sam. They started out as friends and as the story progressed so did their feelings. Hugh and Sam had such a great rapport. Their interactions and banter were fantastic. I was smiling and swoony whenever I read them together. I also loved the supporting characters-they really added that extra jazz to the story. The book had a nice flow to it-Hilaria paced this story well. It was an easy and lighthearted read that will get to you.
Profile Image for Karen Ferry.
Author 12 books371 followers
February 6, 2017
Such a refreshing take on the whole "movie star" trope - I loved it!

I was very fortunate to receive an ARC of "Lost In Scotland" by Hilaria Alexander, and I have been immersed in it since late last night. The storyline, the characters, and the setting had me captivated from page one.

And sometimes, I make a teaser when I have read a book that I have fallen deeply in love with. So here is my attempt of one - you just have to read this book when it is published on the 1st February. It has everything I could wish for in a romance novel, and this author's "voice" is very engaging and refreshing.

Sam and Hugh's love story is definitely one that will be with me for a long time (that basically translates to the fact that I will be buying it in print as soon as I can), and I hope you will feel the same once you have read it.

One last thing - the chemistry between these two is just amazing! It is the slow, simmering kind of chemistry that I love to read about, but once these two give in to their desires, it is like an unwavering flame that burns hotter as time goes by.

Read it. You won't regret it.

Profile Image for Christine Spoors.
Author 1 book434 followers
September 12, 2018
This was such a fun read following Sam, a makeup artist who moves to Scotland to work on a new TV series being filmed there. I didn't realise this was a romance, so there was more sauce and less plot than I expected, but I really enjoyed this quick read. It's clearly very heavily inspired by Outlander, but I find the filming of Outlander and the changes it has brought to Scotland very interesting and so I really enjoyed that aspect.

I liked that, apart from a few random "ye" thrown in, the author didn't write the Scottish characters with ridiculous accents. Though it did make me laugh when the main male character started hitting out with random Gaelic nicknames for the main character. Of course this is yet another book in which the main female character is American not Scottish, but at this point I never expect anything else haha. I actually didn't really like the main character because of her actions (the most overdramatic person alive??) but I enjoyed reading from her POV.

The main character's name is Samhain, aka the pagan festival around the time of Halloween, which I made a mental note to laugh about how ridiculous that is. BUT the author actually ended up weaving that so nicely into the story that I ended up really liking the choice. Good job Alexander.
Profile Image for Becca Reads A Lot.
285 reviews150 followers
February 9, 2017

This was my first by Hilaria Alexander. It was sweet and riddled with pop culture references.

I found the characters to be super endearing. Everything was vividly described as if I too was in Scotland.

Am I the only one looking forward to Declan and Amira?!
Profile Image for Livia.
1,027 reviews41 followers
April 21, 2017
★¸¸.•*¨*•★Minor spoilers alert★•*¨*•.¸¸★

Writing style: Dual POVs
Cover and chapter design: I like the cool couple image hidden in the Scotland hills. And the sky-blue chapter titles add a nice bit of color inside the novel.

Favorite Sam Quote:
‘I loved him, and he needed to know how much. He was everything.’

Favorite Hugh Quote:
‘The air of mystery about her was one of the things that attracted me the most, and her soft voice was another, but the way her eyes seemed to look right through me was what was most unsettling.

On top of that, when she smiled at me, I felt powerless. I didn’t have a chance against her. I had to give in. I wanted to fall for her, follow her anywhere.’

Did this one live up to its synopsis well? Yes, 100% yes!
Although the celebrity romance trope isn’t a big draw for me normally, I’m a huge fan of author Hilaria Alexander. I knew I wouldn’t be disappointed by my escape into Sam and Hugh’s love story. I loved all the references to the Outlander television show and the comparisons between real life lead actor Sam Heughan and fictional lead actor Hugh MacLeod. The dilemma Hugh has once he falls for Hollywood make-up artist Samhain (aka Sam) Farouk and how it no doubt paralleled what the Outlander lead actors are currently experiencing was eye-opening and interesting. I’m a total shipper, and I have no shame in admitting I want Outlander lead actors Sam Heughan and Caitriona Balfe to be a real life off screen couple, ha!

Fortunately, the evolution and resolution of fictional Hugh and Sam’s professional and romantic relationship seemed very realistic and had me smiling in delight. I also loved how the novel took place over a year plus. There was also lots of good humor, steam, pathos and conflict that never seemed absurd or over the top. I hope this one gets an audiobook eventually so I can indulge in an easy future re-read. I can imagine narrators Zachary Morgan and Edita Brychta performing this one perfectly – hint, hint. 😉
Profile Image for Becca.
687 reviews54 followers
May 7, 2017
4.5 Stars - Hilaria Alexander delivers a sweet, feel good romance with Sam and Hugh’s story in Lost in Scotland. From the first page to the last, I was smitten with this Scottish adventure, completely caught up in the brilliant imagery and vibrant characters that made this book come to life. Sam and Hugh were absolutely adorable and I was quick to fall in love with their witty banter, shared passion for film, and genuine sweetness. The colorful cast of secondary characters added laughter and levity at all the right moments, ensuring that Lost in Scotland was a memorable and entertaining read. Hilaria Alexander’s voice is simply breathtaking and I found myself experiencing the full spectrum of emotion over the course of this novel. I loved the obvious heart and soul that went into this story and quickly developed some serious wanderlust from the spellbinding visuals this author so effortlessly conjured for her readers.

As reserved as she initially seemed, Sam soon proved herself to be smart, sweet and perfectly sassy. I loved watching this character blossom as she stepped away from Hollywood and forged her own path. Sam exhibited some great vulnerability that allowed me to instantly connect with her, but it was her bravery and the strength of character she demonstrated in starting over in a new country that had me rooting for her so vehemently. Hugh, on the other hand, was instantly swoon-worthy. Despite his rising celebrity status, he felt warm and approachable, the kind of hero that turns you to mush with his desperately dashing appearance and surprisingly romantic persona. As much as I loved Hugh, I wanted to know him on a deeper level. While we explored Sam’s history and the fears that made her who she was, I never quite got there with Hugh. There were definitely some moments I would have liked to experience through his eyes in order to really understand the character but overall, he was still a fantastic book boyfriend.

I absolutely adored the storyline that Hilaria Alexander has so expertly crafted with this novel. While Lost in Scotland had all of the flash and sparkle of a Hollywood romance, the setting and more minor celebrity of the characters allowed this story to remain a step removed from the usual blinding limelight and thus ensured the relatability of the characters and their journey. I loved the detail that went into Sam and Hugh’s story. From the movie-making magic to the socially relevant news and gossip, Lost in Scotland felt authentic and fresh. Hilaria Alexander wrote with confidence, instilling a feeling of expertise that had me wholeheartedly believing in her fictional world. As my first novel from this incredibly talented author, I can say with certainty that it won’t be my last. A sweet, heartfelt romance that will leave you grinning, Lost in Scotland is utterly enchanting!
Profile Image for Marieke ~ Marieke's Books.
454 reviews25 followers
February 7, 2017
Lost in Scotland is the newest book by one of my favorite authors, Hilaria Alexander. I love her books for their realness and of course the author’s writing. Lost in Scotland tells the story of Sam and Hugh, who fall in love in Scotland and have to navigate between their own wants, and the demands of the almighty movie industry they work for. I love their story.
“You’ve made the right choice, Sam. Scotland is the perfect place to start over.”

After her revenge plan on her cheating boyfriend backfired on her, Sam has no chance at a new opportunity in her hometown Los Angeles. After she’s over the hurt and has regrouped herself with the help of her family, she leaves for rainy Scotland to work as a makeup artist for a new tv-series. Not only she misses her family and the sunny weather, Sam just feels lost. Knowing ‘the dangers’ of the movie industry she knows it not a good idea to fall for one of the actors she works with, but Hugh is a hard man to resist.
“I stretched out my hand and shook his. He held it and smiled at me, his gaze warm, friendly. I finally started feeling a little more at ease, although I couldn’t quite hold the intensity of his eyes. They were studying me. I felt them everywhere.”

Hugh is a true Scottish man who always wanted to be an actor. Like so many aspiring actors he gives it his all to land an acting job, but so far he has no luck. When he finally gets The Opportunity – the leading role in an Outlander-like series – he is a very happy man. A happy man, but also a scared man who’s afraid the role will fall through after all. Hugh wants to focus on his role, but one of the makeup artistes makes it a bit difficult to focus on just the acting job. He isn’t looking for a fling or relationship, but Sam might be worth is.
“In one way or another, it seemed I gravitated toward her. I had thought about her often since the first time we had spoken, up on this very hill. The mysterious California girl with the melancholic eyes had made an impression on me, and each time I saw her after that, she revealed a trait of her personality that surprised me.”

Sam and Hugh both aren’t looking for The One. Sam last relation ended with a big bang, and the aftermath ruined her career. Hugh has just landed his first leading role in a promising tv-series, he needs to focus on his acting. But Hugh and Sam like each other, and slowly they form a friendship and spend a lot of time together on and off set. When the couple finally gives into their need it’s hot and explosive. You know Sam and Hugh belong together, but unfortunately not everything is in their control.

I love Lost in Scotland, Sam and Hugh are a great couple who go from friendship to so much more. I’m not very familiar with the movie industry, but I can imagine the workings of PR and spinning possible love stories. Actors and makeup artists won’t have a big say in it I guess, it’s all about creating hype and publicity. Hugh and Sam are real people, with real emotions and thoughts, I love them together. Besides the main couple, there’s a great cast of family members and co-workers who all add to the story.
“Samhain, I’ve wanted you since I first laid eyes on you. I craved your friendship and your love before you were even mine. I fell for you so fast. I didn’t even think it was possible to fall in love like this. I never want anything to keep us apart ever again. I love you.”

I love Sam and Hugh, and their story. I give Lost in Scotland 4.5 stars.

teaser1
www.mariekesbooks.com
Profile Image for Michelle.
78 reviews
February 10, 2017
4 stars? 3.5 stars? Not sure yet.... I thinks this one is one of those books that you enjoy while reading it, but becomes pretty forgettable later on. Nothing that would stand out to make me remember it, or want to re-read it someday. But it was good while it lasted!

What I liked: she is a makeup artist in Hollywood, older sister to a famous actress. Her father emigrated from Pakistan, so I like that she is an exotic beauty, not the cookie cutter heroine. The story opens with her at the Golden Globes with her long-time boyfriend, and something disastrous happens. The book then skips to many months later, where she is now in Scotland, putting her life back together. You don't get to find out what happened until later in the book. I think that's part of why I kept reading, I wanted the full story of what went down. I also liked the occasional "Outlander" references, since I am a huge fan of the book series. The author obviously is too. The accent on the hero of the story made me miss Jamie!

What I didn't like: when time skips ahead from chapter to the next and an author just kind of fills in the time with "a few weeks went by and things were progressing nicely" kind of thing. I really really don't like that. I also got annoyed every time she mentioned the the heroine's name and how it was pronounced and if he said it the Gaelic way or how her mom said it, but not quite - UGH - it took away from the story. I didn't even know what to call her after a while. And that leads me to another weird little "dislike". Since she was so obviously an "Outlander" fan, I started to believe that the Heroine (Sam) and the Hero (Hugh) equalled Sam+Hugh = Sam Heughen? The guy playing Jamie? I know, I know, I'm nuts, right? But maybe not? Little things like this took away from enjoying the story.

Would I recommend it? Sure, why not? It was fun, sexy, I read the whole thing, I liked the hero, I liked the scenery (Scotland), she had some interesting friends and karaoke! Did I love it? Nah! But I liked it!!!

Profile Image for Bobbi Wagner.
4,999 reviews63 followers
February 17, 2017
Lost in Scotland by Hilaria Alexander is a story about picking up the pieces of life after a public break up. This story is a fun romantic that will make you laugh in parts and waiting to see what happens in the next. This story will take you on a journey to Scotland that will pull at your heart strings. The author has created the characters in a way that you will be able to relate to them. They will pull you into their world of movies and everything that goes with it. Find out what happens in Scotland, you won't regret it!

Sam Farouk is a woman who feels that she has it all. She has a great job and an adoring boyfriend of seven years. At least so she thought. What happens when one night changes everything for her? When an opportunity comes up for her to go to Scotland, she takes it. She can't wait to start her new show but will she get homesick? What will happen when she starts to feel a little lost? This is where she meets him. There seems to be an instant connection between them. How strong will it become?

Hugh MacLeod is a sexy, cocky, and sweet man who is waiting for his next big break. What happens when this opportunity comes? It is his dream come true. What will happen when he meets her? He feels the instant connection between them. What will he do when he starts to feel that he is in deep with her? Her touch is torture everyday for him. How will he work with her everyday? Will he be able to control it?

Sam and Hugh's relationship is one that is wrong but yet it feels so right. Are they what each other needs? He is from Scotland and she is from Los Angeles, will they find a common ground? Will they help each other? You will love how these characters interact with each other. Will they realize how important they have become to each other before it is too late? Neither one is looking for a relationship but find out what happens when they are not looking? Will fate have other plans for them? Find out how they turn out!

This is my first story by Hilaria Alexander and I know that I will go back for more. Hilaria was born and raised in Italy where her family still lives but she, her husband and children call Oklahoma City their home. She loves books, movies, television and addicted to award shows. She loves music and she uses it for inspiration when plotting new stories. She has created a page turner story. You will find yourself losing time and getting totally involved in this story. She will have you sitting on the edge of your seat waiting to see what will happen at the end of the story. I highly suggest this story as I know you will love taking a journey to Scotland with these characters as much as I did.
Profile Image for Sheila'S Book Corner.
1,071 reviews78 followers
February 6, 2017
I got lost in this lovely story and feel like I've just returned from a scenic trip to Scotland!
After a very messy Hollywood break up and losing her job in the process, Sam is lucky to find work doing what she loves as a make up artist on location with a show filming in Scotland.

"I looked at the women singing around me. We had differences, but we all had one thing in common. A broken heart. A love story that had left us scarred. A lover who didn’t deliver on a promise. We’d all been there. Heartbreak, the universal denominator."

Sam knows better than to get involved with one of the actors, but she was drawn to the star, Hugh MacLeod. Hugh is focused on his career. He has been working hard, taking all the roles he thinks can advance him and this one could be his big break. They both really enjoy each other's company, but both were trying to fight their attraction and stay in the friend-zone.

"I wanted to take it slow, wanted to be a gentleman, but I’d have been lying if I’d said I didn’t want to undress her and explore every inch of her skin. She was poised most of the time, but I sensed a deep-rooted electricity buried in her that kept calling my name. I wanted to see her wild beauty come undone. I just hoped I could manage to keep an appearance of self-control around her from now on. I knew things were going to be difficult for both of us if I let myself slip."

Hilaria Alexander's writing has a beautiful lyric quality to it that even when she is breaking your heart, she is at the same time soothing it! I love to get lost in any book by this author!
--Diane-- 4.5 Stars!
Profile Image for Kate Farlow.
114 reviews10 followers
January 30, 2017
description
I would give this little treasure of a book 8 Stars if I could! Hilaria Alexander BLEW ME AWAY! I am so ashamed to say that Lost in Scotland is the first book of hers that I have read (*covers face with hands to hide*), but y'all. I'M OBSESSED. Like circle the globe and love left over obsessed. Her writing is so fresh and I love the cultural diversity of her characters.

And can we take a few to look at that cover?! <3 <3 <3 It is GORGEOUS. Okay, onto the actual book review, yeah?

Y'all. I am just so smitten with Sam & Hugh. Their chemistry was so strong...

"I thought it must be what hell feels like - burning with no way to extinguish the fire. Being around him every day was torture."
------
"She was poised most of the time, but I sensed a deep-rooted electricity buried in her that kept calling my name. I wanted to see her wild beauty come undone."

The descriptive imagery in this book was breathtaking. I felt like I was in Scotland, I could see it so clearly through Hilaria's words. That's powerful writing y'all.

If your thing is: incredible, fresh writing; diverse characters; a story with a gorgeous setting; a bit of swoon, steam, and angst... Oh who I am kidding, OF COURSE THAT'S YOUR THING! Seriously y'all. One of my top books so far this year. One Click it IMMEDIATELY!
Profile Image for Kristann Monaghan.
Author 9 books40 followers
February 19, 2017
This was my first book by Hilaria Alexander and it made me want to read all her books. This was such a breath of fresh air and combined two favorite things: the movie industry and Scotland. A sweet, sexy read that will whisk you away to scenery that comes alive under the words of Hilaria Alexander.

I fell in love with Sam and Hugh and their playful and fun relationship as they got to know each other and fell in love. This is not an instant love story but really explores people getting to know each other while filming a show. We all have heard of how people fall in love on set and I always thought it was a fast thing but this story is a nice slow build which I loved. This story is a low drama with a few twists that will make you laugh, smile and maybe shed a tear or two.

I could see Scotland through Ms. Alexander's writing and it made me want to go visit even more so! Scotland almost becomes a character in itself and presents itself to Sam like a present she has been waiting to open. Hugh Macleod is a dreamy Scotsman and I could hear him speaking while I was reading. Ms. Alexander does an amazing job conveying the plot through her beautiful craftmanship of the story.

I want so much more of not only Sam and Hugh, but for sure of Cecilia and the Macleod brothers....I so hope we get another Scotland book. Also when I visit in a couple of years, I am going to make sure to find a field of heather to sit in. Dreamy. Go right now and get Lost in Scotland. You can thank me later.
Profile Image for Kristin  Reads.
682 reviews13 followers
February 4, 2017
This book was all kinds of amazing. It has everything I love in a great read.... Hollywood drama, travel, romance, unbelievable chemistry, witty side characters, and let's not forget the touch of a HOT , Humble and Sexy Sottish man... my personal favorite. When I say once you start reading this book, it will be extremely hard to put down., I not lying. You will love this book from page one till the last.

I adored Sam and Hugh's story. I loved the back drop of their story (the way Scotland is described is magical). I loved the tug and pull of their some what of a forbidden romance, I adored the personalities of these two characters, and the way you could feel their chemistry every time they were in the same scene was pretty AMAZING.

This book was written with feeling and at times made me have goosebumps just from the lovely feelings it brought out of me. I enjoyed the anticipation of the unfolding truths of the story, that added that much more to the story being addicting. I think this book will hit the list of a lot of #mustreads list. I know people will fall in love with the story and with Sam and Hugh as much as I did. I miss being a part of their adventure.
Profile Image for M.R. Field.
Author 5 books321 followers
March 4, 2017
"Lost in Scotland" is a sexy, witty and addictive read, that had me turning pages quickly, in order to follow alongside the delicious tension between Sam and Hugh.

Sam Farouk is a makeup artist in desperate need to rebuild her reputation after a recent betrayal turns ugly. Her revenge plot backfires and she is left to tend to her wounds rather than bask in the aftermath of her plan. She is eventually offered a job (through connections) which becomes an opportunity of a lifetime, in Scotland. It is also a ticket to help redeem herself.

Whilst there, she meets a rather sexy stranger while out for a walk, who she discovers on her movie set is none other than sexy heartthrob Hugh Macleod. Also, a potential threat to her libido.

The chemistry between them sizzles as they get to know each other, yet it also threatens Sam's hard work to redeem herself. Is giving in, worth the risk?
Well, with hottie Hugh, we can safely say, 'Absolutely!'

I adored this novel and found it was a perfect read to escape on a rainy day. The chemistry between the characters was delicious and the plot was delivered well.
Profile Image for Jennifer.
2,905 reviews6 followers
February 11, 2017
This was an easy read, pretty low on the angst and without any kind of ow/om drama. I enjoyed the alternating povs and the relatively slow burn romance. However, I didn't really enjoy the writing style that much. It was too much telling, not enough showing. Plus, the utter lack of drama, with one minor and very contrived exception, was a little boring. I don't need the drama llama. I just need something else going on in the plot. As it was, this was an easy but mediocre read.
Profile Image for Katie Pettigrew.
11 reviews3 followers
January 12, 2017
Oh my swoon! Hugh MacLeod is so totally swoon worthy! There is nothing I didn't like about Lost in Scotland. It's my first Hilaria Alexander book and I'm eager to read more! She has a way with words and I want to read more.
I love Sam. I love Hugh. And it was just perfect
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