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What Happens #2
What Happens in the Ruins
Can she stop her past from ruining her future?
Sorcha Mackinnon isn’t your typical tortured artist. She is also a party girl, a vintage shopper, and the heiress to a whisky fortune. But when inspiration suddenly flies out the window, she’s left with an empty whisky glass and a blank canvas…until a childhood friend waltzes back into her life.
She’s known Danny Gordon since birth, but they lost touch as their careers took them in different directions. He offers to show her the parts of Scotland he swears will spark life back into her brushes. And as they tour the sights on the back of his motorcycle, Sorcha realizes that under the tattoos and smart mouth, Danny may inspire more in her than just a new painting.
But as a good time begins to morph into an ever after, Sorcha is reminded of old wounds that just won’t heal. Danny tries to open her heart, but her self-imposed isolation makes things harder than ever. Now she must decide what to do, because what happens in the ruins doesn’t always stay there.
Sorcha Mackinnon isn’t your typical tortured artist. She is also a party girl, a vintage shopper, and the heiress to a whisky fortune. But when inspiration suddenly flies out the window, she’s left with an empty whisky glass and a blank canvas…until a childhood friend waltzes back into her life.
She’s known Danny Gordon since birth, but they lost touch as their careers took them in different directions. He offers to show her the parts of Scotland he swears will spark life back into her brushes. And as they tour the sights on the back of his motorcycle, Sorcha realizes that under the tattoos and smart mouth, Danny may inspire more in her than just a new painting.
But as a good time begins to morph into an ever after, Sorcha is reminded of old wounds that just won’t heal. Danny tries to open her heart, but her self-imposed isolation makes things harder than ever. Now she must decide what to do, because what happens in the ruins doesn’t always stay there.
205 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 8, 2019
179 people are currently reading
160 people want to read
About the author
Kelsey McKnight
20 books170 followersFrom Scottish lairds to billionaire businessmen, Kelsey McKnight will ignite your soul, no matter what century it lives in.
Kelsey is a university-educated historian from southern New Jersey. She has married her great loves of romance, history, and literature to create her own tales of dashing heroes, sultry bad boys, and lovable heroines who have their own stories to tell. They will take you through the ballrooms of Victorian London, to the hills of the Scottish Highlands, and into New York City penthouses, all at the flip of a page.
When she’s not writing, Kelsey can be found reading, drinking too much coffee, spending time with her family, and working for a nonprofit organization.
Kelsey is a university-educated historian from southern New Jersey. She has married her great loves of romance, history, and literature to create her own tales of dashing heroes, sultry bad boys, and lovable heroines who have their own stories to tell. They will take you through the ballrooms of Victorian London, to the hills of the Scottish Highlands, and into New York City penthouses, all at the flip of a page.
When she’s not writing, Kelsey can be found reading, drinking too much coffee, spending time with her family, and working for a nonprofit organization.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
June 16, 2019
First of all I love all things Scottish, and have been disappointed in the past reading some books based in Scotland. This one did everything right! The setting, the description, the love story, the brogue, kilts... it was just lovely. I really enjoyed the entire story. Thank you to netgalley for the ARC.
July 9, 2019
Reviewed at Keeper Bookshelf
To paraphrase a line from the cover description – ‘WHAT HAPPENS IN THE RUINS isn’t the run of the mill rich, party girl finds a lover’ type of story, not at all. Sorcha is indeed rich, she is, after all, a whiskey heiress, she does love to party why shouldn’t she, also add accomplished artist to that growing list and you have an interesting woman. Add to that an event from her past that continues to bring her pain and haunt any chance at happiness in her future and you have a pretty good idea of what to expect in this second story in the What Happens series.
I don’t happen to think that the What Happens series is easily just dropped into at the later books. There is a lot from WHAT HAPPENS IN THE HIGHLANDS that lays the groundwork for the other friends’ stories to emerge. Do you “have” to read the first? No, of course not. Yet I do believe you’ll have a better understanding of the dynamics of each friend outside of their friendship if you can read the first book as well.
Kelsey McKnight has delivered a word picture of this beautiful country and it’s hidden treasures, one that kept me smiling throughout. There were moments when I either wanted to shake or hug Sorcha as she battled with her past and the future with Danny that was within reach if she’d only take the risk and trust them both. I “got” her reasons, yet with a love like Danny’s, he will help her through all those rough parts that will never ever really fade away. I don’t dare say more since I don’t willingly give away spoilers – but these two belong together.
I had a blast with their romance, as well as the ups and downs that they encountered along the way. If you’re in the mood to be swept away then this story and series are exactly what you need.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
To paraphrase a line from the cover description – ‘WHAT HAPPENS IN THE RUINS isn’t the run of the mill rich, party girl finds a lover’ type of story, not at all. Sorcha is indeed rich, she is, after all, a whiskey heiress, she does love to party why shouldn’t she, also add accomplished artist to that growing list and you have an interesting woman. Add to that an event from her past that continues to bring her pain and haunt any chance at happiness in her future and you have a pretty good idea of what to expect in this second story in the What Happens series.
I don’t happen to think that the What Happens series is easily just dropped into at the later books. There is a lot from WHAT HAPPENS IN THE HIGHLANDS that lays the groundwork for the other friends’ stories to emerge. Do you “have” to read the first? No, of course not. Yet I do believe you’ll have a better understanding of the dynamics of each friend outside of their friendship if you can read the first book as well.
Kelsey McKnight has delivered a word picture of this beautiful country and it’s hidden treasures, one that kept me smiling throughout. There were moments when I either wanted to shake or hug Sorcha as she battled with her past and the future with Danny that was within reach if she’d only take the risk and trust them both. I “got” her reasons, yet with a love like Danny’s, he will help her through all those rough parts that will never ever really fade away. I don’t dare say more since I don’t willingly give away spoilers – but these two belong together.
I had a blast with their romance, as well as the ups and downs that they encountered along the way. If you’re in the mood to be swept away then this story and series are exactly what you need.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
September 11, 2019
3.5 stars rounded up, just to make it comparable with recent ratings I've given.
Artist and whiskey heiress Sorcha MacKinnon is known as a free-spirited party girl but her image is mostly a carefully crafted facade to hide her lingering pain at the loss of her twin brother and keep her from getting too close to anyone. But when a childhood friend comes back into her life and helps her rediscover her passion for painting, things may be changing and Sorcha is terrified. She's known Daniel Gordon her entire life, despite the fact that they've become distant since university, he's still her friend and she's not supposed to be feeling what she's beginning to feel for him. Or for anyone. Right?
As the two spend time together exploring the Scottish countryside, Sorcha tries to deal with the painful past and resist the urge to run and hide from her feelings, and Danny. But old habits die hard and soon she'll have to decide what he truly means to her or risk losing him for good.
Firstly, I loved getting to see the main characters from the previous book in the series moving forward with their relationships. Secondly, I loved Sorcha as a secondary character in the previous book, but I could hardly stand her in this one. I don't generally care for first person narration so maybe that was part of the problem, but her thoughts and inner monologues just came off as overly dramatic and whiney. They were mostly about things she hates, or tolerates but doesn't actually like and how she felt so alone, even though she acknowledged all of this to be her own doing. She had understandable reasons I supposed, but her continuing to callously hurt others she cared about and run away time and again to protect herself just got on my nerves. The descriptions of Scotland were lovely, but Sorcha's spoiled rich girl tendencies and immaturity made it difficult to relate to her. Danny was perfect, really overly so and he put up with way too much and deserved so much better treatment, but I couldn't even roll my eyes at him because they were too busy rolling at Sorcha.
I'll definitely continue this series because I still love the characters, but Sorcha was a disappointment for me overall.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Artist and whiskey heiress Sorcha MacKinnon is known as a free-spirited party girl but her image is mostly a carefully crafted facade to hide her lingering pain at the loss of her twin brother and keep her from getting too close to anyone. But when a childhood friend comes back into her life and helps her rediscover her passion for painting, things may be changing and Sorcha is terrified. She's known Daniel Gordon her entire life, despite the fact that they've become distant since university, he's still her friend and she's not supposed to be feeling what she's beginning to feel for him. Or for anyone. Right?
As the two spend time together exploring the Scottish countryside, Sorcha tries to deal with the painful past and resist the urge to run and hide from her feelings, and Danny. But old habits die hard and soon she'll have to decide what he truly means to her or risk losing him for good.
Firstly, I loved getting to see the main characters from the previous book in the series moving forward with their relationships. Secondly, I loved Sorcha as a secondary character in the previous book, but I could hardly stand her in this one. I don't generally care for first person narration so maybe that was part of the problem, but her thoughts and inner monologues just came off as overly dramatic and whiney. They were mostly about things she hates, or tolerates but doesn't actually like and how she felt so alone, even though she acknowledged all of this to be her own doing. She had understandable reasons I supposed, but her continuing to callously hurt others she cared about and run away time and again to protect herself just got on my nerves. The descriptions of Scotland were lovely, but Sorcha's spoiled rich girl tendencies and immaturity made it difficult to relate to her. Danny was perfect, really overly so and he put up with way too much and deserved so much better treatment, but I couldn't even roll my eyes at him because they were too busy rolling at Sorcha.
I'll definitely continue this series because I still love the characters, but Sorcha was a disappointment for me overall.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
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July 23, 2019
A big thank you to NetGalley and Tule Publishing for the ARC. I am voluntarily reviewing this book. This is a cute book. It's Sorcha and Danny's story. Friends to Lovers. 4 stars
July 9, 2019
What Happens in the Ruins by Kelsey McKnight is the second book of the What Happens Series. So far the books have taken place in the beautiful Scottish lands. It concerns a group of young twentyish well-to-do friends and their loves. This book felt like the group were more mature. In fact, I liked this book more than the first.
Sorcha is an artist but a troubled one because of a lost she experienced several years ago. Not dealing with that loss hinders her from more than superficial relationships. One of her childhood friends, Danny comes back in her life. He is everything you could possibly want in a man. I guess I would call this, friends with benefits story that turns into more. However, that is not exactly right since it is really about Sorcha and her troubled heart.
The writing is strong with wonderful vivid descriptions of Scottish places as Sorcha and Danny go to find inspiration for her paintings. The dialogue is witty, natural and believable. I cam away from this book with a true sense of the group of friends and their dynamics. Since these characters are all at the age to find love and settle down, there is wedding talk, wedding preparations and of course a wedding. Just not as predictable as the first book’s wedding.
An ARC of the book was given to me by the publisher through Net Galley which I voluntarily chose to read and reviewed. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Sorcha is an artist but a troubled one because of a lost she experienced several years ago. Not dealing with that loss hinders her from more than superficial relationships. One of her childhood friends, Danny comes back in her life. He is everything you could possibly want in a man. I guess I would call this, friends with benefits story that turns into more. However, that is not exactly right since it is really about Sorcha and her troubled heart.
The writing is strong with wonderful vivid descriptions of Scottish places as Sorcha and Danny go to find inspiration for her paintings. The dialogue is witty, natural and believable. I cam away from this book with a true sense of the group of friends and their dynamics. Since these characters are all at the age to find love and settle down, there is wedding talk, wedding preparations and of course a wedding. Just not as predictable as the first book’s wedding.
An ARC of the book was given to me by the publisher through Net Galley which I voluntarily chose to read and reviewed. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 9, 2019
Such a good read! I love Sorcha and Danny together. I also really enjoy reading about the opulent life Sorcha has and McKnight's beautiful descriptions of Scotland. I've never been but I'd love to see it if it's anything like she describes.
Sorcha lost her twin brother which left a void in her life. Now, whenever she sees love, she runs because she's afraid it'll be taken from her again. Now, not only is she single, she's also lost her art mojo.
In walks Danny Gordon. Struts? Waltzes? He just has swagger. He's a childhood friend of Sorcha and her twin brother's. He promises to help Sorcha find her creativity, but along the way, he finds feeling. The problem is, he's fully ready to act on those feelings, and she's terrified.
So, in a reverse, the girl wants to keep it casual, and the guy wants a ring on her finger. The more she pushes him away, the more he comes back. At least he did...
Sorcha lost her twin brother which left a void in her life. Now, whenever she sees love, she runs because she's afraid it'll be taken from her again. Now, not only is she single, she's also lost her art mojo.
In walks Danny Gordon. Struts? Waltzes? He just has swagger. He's a childhood friend of Sorcha and her twin brother's. He promises to help Sorcha find her creativity, but along the way, he finds feeling. The problem is, he's fully ready to act on those feelings, and she's terrified.
So, in a reverse, the girl wants to keep it casual, and the guy wants a ring on her finger. The more she pushes him away, the more he comes back. At least he did...
July 5, 2019
This is the second book n Kelsey McNight’s “What Happens” series. It can be read as a stand-alone but you’ll get a better feel for who’s who if you’ve read What Happens In The Highlands, book one in the series, first.
I love the setting for this series. Of course there are Scottish castles and ruins dotted here and there, but the town of Nairn, not far north of Inverness, is a gorgeous little town filled with pretty shops, flowers gardens and a rather lovely church. The scenery in this part of the world is jaw-droppingly gorgeous. Thing lush green pastures, sparkling lochs, pretty little cottages and you’ll get the picture.
This is a light hearted, sexy little contemporary romance with a good lashing of wealthy and titled people floating through its pages. All are exceptionally good looking so of course there is plenty to fantasise about.
This story flows quite well and the characters are nicely fleshed out so you do get a good picture of who they are. At times I found all the opulence a little overdone and at times I found Sorcha, the heroine of this story, a little melodramatic but overall this was an enjoyable read.
I love the setting for this series. Of course there are Scottish castles and ruins dotted here and there, but the town of Nairn, not far north of Inverness, is a gorgeous little town filled with pretty shops, flowers gardens and a rather lovely church. The scenery in this part of the world is jaw-droppingly gorgeous. Thing lush green pastures, sparkling lochs, pretty little cottages and you’ll get the picture.
This is a light hearted, sexy little contemporary romance with a good lashing of wealthy and titled people floating through its pages. All are exceptionally good looking so of course there is plenty to fantasise about.
This story flows quite well and the characters are nicely fleshed out so you do get a good picture of who they are. At times I found all the opulence a little overdone and at times I found Sorcha, the heroine of this story, a little melodramatic but overall this was an enjoyable read.
July 3, 2019
A beautifully told love story set in the beautiful Scottish Highlands.
Two old friends, Sorcha and Danny reunite years after the death of Sorcha’s twin brother Johnny, who was also Danny’s best friend. What happens next is full blown romance. But Sorcha doesn’t trust love. She is afraid of losing someone she loves again. She is content with just hooking up with Danny while he takes her around the countryside helping her get her artistic inspiration flowing again, so she can paint for her upcoming art show. When Danny confesses his love for Sorcha, Sorcha pulls away.
My heart broke for Sorcha and Danny immediately when Sorcha decided she didn’t want to see Danny again. But I enjoyed seeing how they worked their way back to each other. I also enjoyed catching up with the characters from the previous books in this series. The author did a fantastic job with creating interesting characters, that I couldn’t get enough of, and scenery that was easy to visualize. I think I might need a trip to Scotland one day. Even though this is a standalone story, I would recommend reading the books from the beginning of the series to get to know all the characters as their stories play out.
Two old friends, Sorcha and Danny reunite years after the death of Sorcha’s twin brother Johnny, who was also Danny’s best friend. What happens next is full blown romance. But Sorcha doesn’t trust love. She is afraid of losing someone she loves again. She is content with just hooking up with Danny while he takes her around the countryside helping her get her artistic inspiration flowing again, so she can paint for her upcoming art show. When Danny confesses his love for Sorcha, Sorcha pulls away.
My heart broke for Sorcha and Danny immediately when Sorcha decided she didn’t want to see Danny again. But I enjoyed seeing how they worked their way back to each other. I also enjoyed catching up with the characters from the previous books in this series. The author did a fantastic job with creating interesting characters, that I couldn’t get enough of, and scenery that was easy to visualize. I think I might need a trip to Scotland one day. Even though this is a standalone story, I would recommend reading the books from the beginning of the series to get to know all the characters as their stories play out.
July 8, 2019
Here is book 2 in the What Happens Series. I loved this book so much. It spoke to me on a deep level. Sorcha is a rich party girl, who, on the surface, seems like she has it all but she has a part of her missing and that part is the size of her twin brother. I have a twin brother actually and I cannot imagine being without him. I get her pain.
As for Danny Gordon, we should all find a man like him. He’s gorgeous, a little dangerous, and he wants to settle down. You know he’s fiction because men can’t be that perfect. Honestly, I love him. Another great book by McKnight
As for Danny Gordon, we should all find a man like him. He’s gorgeous, a little dangerous, and he wants to settle down. You know he’s fiction because men can’t be that perfect. Honestly, I love him. Another great book by McKnight
July 8, 2019
Friends to lovers to separated by her fears, Danny and Sorcha are truly meant to be together in this lovely story set in the Highlands of Scotland.
It is really Sorcha’s story of regaining a whole self after years of mourning the death of her twin, Johnny, She has compartmentalized her grief and shut herself off until her dear friend, Danny, shows her how love and life still exist for her.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
It is really Sorcha’s story of regaining a whole self after years of mourning the death of her twin, Johnny, She has compartmentalized her grief and shut herself off until her dear friend, Danny, shows her how love and life still exist for her.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 9, 2019
I was very excited to see Sorcha was the star of this book. On the outside, she has it all, but one moment changes everything and now she’s a wreck. Danny comes to save her, but will she let him?
Loved this book. It was only in ebook form, so I will be waiting for the paperback to ad to my collection.
Loved this book. It was only in ebook form, so I will be waiting for the paperback to ad to my collection.
July 9, 2019
Whew! What a tear jerker. Haven’t read one so sad in a while. Reminded me when my good friend died and I never thought I’d have one like her again. But there were a ton of funny moments and beautiful ones. Like when they went to the old church with the stained glass windows!
July 8, 2019
Probably a 3.5 for me. There were some parts that seemed really choppy but that may have been because I hadn’t read the other in the series. Overall it was a cute story and had great descriptions of the sights they saw. There were definitely some steamy parts as well.
July 4, 2019
Such a sad, sweet book. I lost my twin when I was young and really felt for Sorcha. It’s hard to have half of yourself go away and just “get over it” ... I was really rooting for her and Danny! He’s such a romantic and she needs a good man like him to help her see love again. He has the best date ideas and I love how generous Sorcha is when it comes to her friends. I need a friend like her with a private jet LOL. Nice to see a millionaire romance where the girl has the money. Good twist.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 10, 2019
I managed to finish this book which showed great potential but it didn't live up to the promise. The descriptions of the Highlands were wonderful. The characters, not so much. Basically Sorcha comes across as a spoiled little rich girl. It is hard to relate to a character who lives off her trust fund.
July 8, 2019
Sorcha had the same blank canvas before her for the last two weeks. She had a row of paintings she had done during the winter lined up against the far wall. They didn’t seem any better than the half finished ones stacked in her closet. They were bland and boring, nothing like the vibrant works from her last show Flowers by Sorcha MacKennon. She was going to have to scrap them all. Sorcha had painters block. Her cousin’s girlfriend Rose asked what she was doing. She declined Roses offer to go up in the attic and go through boxes with her. Sorcha said she couldn’t sit here anymore and said she was driving to Nairn. It had been six months and ten days since her last show. Although a trust fund would keep her from being a starving artist. Sorcha is a whiskey heiress. She hides her pain from losing her twin brother and she won’t let anyone get too close to her as she will not take the chance of them leaving or dying. Sorcha is okay with short flings or friends with benefits. Than Sorcha runs into Danny who she has known since birth. Danny and her parents were friends and they had spent a lot of time together. Danny says he will take her to parts of Scotland that will inspire her to paint again and she agrees to go with him.Danny wants to be more than friends with Sorcha and he hopes to convince her to give them a chance. Sorcha starts to have feelings deeper than friendship for Danny and she wants to run.
I had mixed feelings about this book. I love the way the author described Scotland. I did get a little confused with some of the relationships in this book. I didn’t care for how Sorcha treated Danny a lot of the time. I advise you to read the first book of this series for a more knowledgeable and smoother read. This did drag for me at times. I found it a little hard to relate to Sorcha but I do understand her fear of getting hurt again. I felt bad Sorcha had lsoo her twin brother. As you can see I had mixed feelings for this book.
I had mixed feelings about this book. I love the way the author described Scotland. I did get a little confused with some of the relationships in this book. I didn’t care for how Sorcha treated Danny a lot of the time. I advise you to read the first book of this series for a more knowledgeable and smoother read. This did drag for me at times. I found it a little hard to relate to Sorcha but I do understand her fear of getting hurt again. I felt bad Sorcha had lsoo her twin brother. As you can see I had mixed feelings for this book.
June 30, 2019
I really liked most of this book. Kelsey McKnight is a new author for me so I wasn’t sure what to expect. This book has a lot of romance and some Scottish history in it. It is the second book in the series and reads like one. I found myself confused by some of the names being dropped and the relationships between all of the people at times. Although the book can be read on its own, there is not a lot of explanation for things that have happened prior that are being talked about.
Sorcha MacKinnon is an artist, but she is also an heiress so she doesn’t have to rely on her art for a living. Having a trust fund is a great thing since Sorcha is finding herself with a case of painter’s block. She is feeling uninspired and needs to get out of her funk. Fortunately, she runs into an old friend who offers to help her.
Danny Gordon has known Sorcha since they were little. Their parents are friends and they spent a lot of time together. When he runs into her again, he is only too happy to help her work through her artist block by taking her on trips around the Scottish countryside. Danny hopes that he can convince her to give them a chance to be more than friends.
Sorcha has a lot of emotional baggage and doesn’t want to ever be in a relationship. She is fine with short-term flings and friends with benefits, but doesn’t want more. She is fine with starting something with Danny as long as he understands her terms. Things take a turn when feelings get real.
I really enjoyed the first part of the book, but I felt like the story just dragged on a bit. There were so many great stopping points, but the book just kept going. I thought that Sorcha coping with her baggage took up a lot of pages that we didn’t need as readers and didn’t help to move the story forward. I think the ending definitely could have been shorter.
Sorcha MacKinnon is an artist, but she is also an heiress so she doesn’t have to rely on her art for a living. Having a trust fund is a great thing since Sorcha is finding herself with a case of painter’s block. She is feeling uninspired and needs to get out of her funk. Fortunately, she runs into an old friend who offers to help her.
Danny Gordon has known Sorcha since they were little. Their parents are friends and they spent a lot of time together. When he runs into her again, he is only too happy to help her work through her artist block by taking her on trips around the Scottish countryside. Danny hopes that he can convince her to give them a chance to be more than friends.
Sorcha has a lot of emotional baggage and doesn’t want to ever be in a relationship. She is fine with short-term flings and friends with benefits, but doesn’t want more. She is fine with starting something with Danny as long as he understands her terms. Things take a turn when feelings get real.
I really enjoyed the first part of the book, but I felt like the story just dragged on a bit. There were so many great stopping points, but the book just kept going. I thought that Sorcha coping with her baggage took up a lot of pages that we didn’t need as readers and didn’t help to move the story forward. I think the ending definitely could have been shorter.
July 2, 2019
Thank you to NetGalley, Tule Publishing, and Kelsey McNight for an ARC ebook copy to review. As always, an honest review from me.
2.5 stars
Like:
- Builds the romance and most importantly the friendship between Danny? And Sorcha before jumping into the sexy times. There’s still enough flirting and mild physical contact to remind me reader that it’s a romance novel they’re reading.
- The sexy times start about 25% of the way through the book, which I think is the right time (enough pages to get to know the characters as people, but not so much that it becomes a contemporary fiction novel with only a tiny bit of romance)
- The settings: a good mix of old and new places to create a perfect atmosphere for new romance to spark
Love:
- The setting - beautiful, romantic, interesting, and unique for a romance novel
- The cover = beautifully done!
Dislike:
- For a second, I thought there was going to be someone cheating on their best friend (still not sure), so that took away from the enjoyment of the book for a bit
- A little more interpersonal tension that I would have lived in a romance novel
- The story/plotline aspect didn’t really capture my attention, which is vital to me in a romance novel … or really any novel
Wish that:
- More unique - it’s cute but a generic romance novel. Nothing that particularly sets it apart
- The different moments within the story were more cohesive into the overall story
Overall, fairly good in the romance aspect but a bit of a let down when it comes to the contemporary fiction story telling. A great read, but as someone who is very particular about her romance novels, I’m going to give this one a pass. Not a bad book, so I would still say to consider reading it if the synopsis interests you.
2.5 stars
Like:
- Builds the romance and most importantly the friendship between Danny? And Sorcha before jumping into the sexy times. There’s still enough flirting and mild physical contact to remind me reader that it’s a romance novel they’re reading.
- The sexy times start about 25% of the way through the book, which I think is the right time (enough pages to get to know the characters as people, but not so much that it becomes a contemporary fiction novel with only a tiny bit of romance)
- The settings: a good mix of old and new places to create a perfect atmosphere for new romance to spark
Love:
- The setting - beautiful, romantic, interesting, and unique for a romance novel
- The cover = beautifully done!
Dislike:
- For a second, I thought there was going to be someone cheating on their best friend (still not sure), so that took away from the enjoyment of the book for a bit
- A little more interpersonal tension that I would have lived in a romance novel
- The story/plotline aspect didn’t really capture my attention, which is vital to me in a romance novel … or really any novel
Wish that:
- More unique - it’s cute but a generic romance novel. Nothing that particularly sets it apart
- The different moments within the story were more cohesive into the overall story
Overall, fairly good in the romance aspect but a bit of a let down when it comes to the contemporary fiction story telling. A great read, but as someone who is very particular about her romance novels, I’m going to give this one a pass. Not a bad book, so I would still say to consider reading it if the synopsis interests you.
August 21, 2019
What Happens in the Ruins is such a fun story! I loved Sorcha and her take charge attitude! And she and Danny together is just all sorts of fun! Kelsey Mcknight does a spectacular job with her descriptions of the different areas and their many characteristics! I felt like I was actually walking around and discovering it before me as I read! Wonderful!
Danny and Sorcha have known each other their whole lives and ran in the same circle of friends. So when Danny sees Sorcha in town and asks her to stay and have some coffee, its nothing out of the ordinary. He asks her about her artwork and she says she's been struggling with inspiration. He offers to take her with him as he visits one of his many investment properties. She jumps at the chance!
Things progress from there. Sorcha visiting places of inspiration for her art, with Danny. All over Scotland! Feelings eventually emerge and then this isn't just fun anymore. It feels real and that scares Sorcha.
I really enjoyed Danny and Sorcha's journey! And it was a journey! Sorcha had a lot of past demons she just locked away and never dealt with. We all can relate to some of her issues and/or fears. I adored Danny! He had a way of calming Sorcha and taking away a lot of her anxiety. He was so caring and really understood her obstacles.
What Happens in the Ruins is book two in the What Happens series, and can be read as a standalone. There are overlapping characters from Book one, What Happens in the Highlands, that you will definitely want to read! A great addition to the series and I look forward to book three!
I was gifted a copy of this book by the publisher through NetGalley. The rating and review are my opinion.
Danny and Sorcha have known each other their whole lives and ran in the same circle of friends. So when Danny sees Sorcha in town and asks her to stay and have some coffee, its nothing out of the ordinary. He asks her about her artwork and she says she's been struggling with inspiration. He offers to take her with him as he visits one of his many investment properties. She jumps at the chance!
Things progress from there. Sorcha visiting places of inspiration for her art, with Danny. All over Scotland! Feelings eventually emerge and then this isn't just fun anymore. It feels real and that scares Sorcha.
I really enjoyed Danny and Sorcha's journey! And it was a journey! Sorcha had a lot of past demons she just locked away and never dealt with. We all can relate to some of her issues and/or fears. I adored Danny! He had a way of calming Sorcha and taking away a lot of her anxiety. He was so caring and really understood her obstacles.
What Happens in the Ruins is book two in the What Happens series, and can be read as a standalone. There are overlapping characters from Book one, What Happens in the Highlands, that you will definitely want to read! A great addition to the series and I look forward to book three!
I was gifted a copy of this book by the publisher through NetGalley. The rating and review are my opinion.
January 20, 2020
I received this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. I am loving this series by Kelsey McKnight. I somehow missed this book and I’m so glad to have found it again and read it. This is second in the series of books taking place in the Scottish Highlands. Kelsey has created characters that are so wonderful. I like how the characters were introduced in book one and included in the storylines. Then in the second book, it features a different couple, but all the characters are included and appear often to my delight.
Sorcha is a cousin to Sean and Lachlan and becomes close with their ladies from America, Katie and Rose. Danny was Sorcha’s late brother’s best friend and their parents were friends. They caught up together at Katie’s hen night and realized there were sparks. Sorcha has kept herself from being in a relationship since her twin brother died, 6 years earlier. Sorcha is an artist but she has had trouble painting lately. She shares this with Danny and he starts taking her to beautiful spots to try to get her muse back. She and Danny begin seeing each other but she won’t let emotions into play or give the relationship a title.
There is quite a bit of romance and angst in the book. The scenes between Danny and Sorcha become quite steamy. She pulls away as she’s afraid of getting close and losing someone else. The plot is truly wonderful to read and see the changes taking place in Sorcha. I highly recommend this book, giving it 5 stars. I am ready and excited to start book 3 next.
Sorcha is a cousin to Sean and Lachlan and becomes close with their ladies from America, Katie and Rose. Danny was Sorcha’s late brother’s best friend and their parents were friends. They caught up together at Katie’s hen night and realized there were sparks. Sorcha has kept herself from being in a relationship since her twin brother died, 6 years earlier. Sorcha is an artist but she has had trouble painting lately. She shares this with Danny and he starts taking her to beautiful spots to try to get her muse back. She and Danny begin seeing each other but she won’t let emotions into play or give the relationship a title.
There is quite a bit of romance and angst in the book. The scenes between Danny and Sorcha become quite steamy. She pulls away as she’s afraid of getting close and losing someone else. The plot is truly wonderful to read and see the changes taking place in Sorcha. I highly recommend this book, giving it 5 stars. I am ready and excited to start book 3 next.
August 22, 2020
I do love the romance of this series of books set in contemporary Scotland. In this book Sorcha is an artist with a all the money she needs but she cannot let go of the past. The death of her twin brother six years before has left her feeling broken and incomplete and incapable of loving anyone so deeply again. Danny is her childhood friend but he has secretly loved her for years. I really enjoyed the tour of the Scottish Highlands in this books as they search for Highland landmarks and features to revive her artwork. Along the way they find parts of each other and themselves that they tried so hard to deny. This is one of those fairy tale romances that warm you inside if you just go with the flow. I did find it bordering on melodrama at times and a bit over the top with all the wonderful things that very rich people can do to entertain themselves. But Danny was a wonderfully sweet and patient man who has no problem with showing his love. Overall it was a very rich and romantic read.
May 21, 2022
I wanted to give this 4 stars at first, but then thought that would be unfair. Because this book, regardless being short for a novel, made me enjoy so much and feel so much.
Two broken friends find love and solace in each other in this book. It's their journey that had me hooked. From feeling helplessness and bearing irrational guilt alone and pushing one's loved ones away to finding so much love and happiness in those same people - this made me enjoy it so fluffing much. And I know I admired the Scottish setting in the first book, but I'm totally in love with the imagery here in this one too.
**(You might want to take notes of the beautiful places for bucket list - I did)
***And the author added two beautiful tragic poems in the end which I'll hold very dear to me.
𝐓𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬 - childhood friends to friends-with-benefits to lovers
Two broken friends find love and solace in each other in this book. It's their journey that had me hooked. From feeling helplessness and bearing irrational guilt alone and pushing one's loved ones away to finding so much love and happiness in those same people - this made me enjoy it so fluffing much. And I know I admired the Scottish setting in the first book, but I'm totally in love with the imagery here in this one too.
**(You might want to take notes of the beautiful places for bucket list - I did)
***And the author added two beautiful tragic poems in the end which I'll hold very dear to me.
𝐓𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬 - childhood friends to friends-with-benefits to lovers
July 28, 2024
3.5 bumped to 4. In this book, the second of the What Happens series, we return to the Scottish Highlands. This time two childhood friends reconnect. Danny and Sorcha have known one another since they were born. Both are Scottish royalty. Danny was Johnny’s, Sorcha’s twin brother, best friend. They have seen one another through tragedy. Danny knows and understands Sorcha like no one else can. Can he get her to realize it?
This is a cute, quick, sometimes snarky, and entertaining story. If you’ve read the first book, you'll revisit Calder Castle and catch up with all the cousins and friends. But you don't have to read the first book to enjoy this one. This group can worm its way into your heart. You’ll enjoy getting to know them!
This is a cute, quick, sometimes snarky, and entertaining story. If you’ve read the first book, you'll revisit Calder Castle and catch up with all the cousins and friends. But you don't have to read the first book to enjoy this one. This group can worm its way into your heart. You’ll enjoy getting to know them!
July 9, 2019
What Happens in the Ruins by Kelsey McKnight
Can she stop her past from ruining her future?
Sorcha Mackinnon isn’t your typical tortured artist. She is also a party girl, a vintage shopper, and the heiress to a whisky fortune. But when inspiration suddenly flies out the window, she’s left with an empty whisky glass and a blank canvas…until a childhood friend waltzes back into her life.
She’s known Danny Gordon since birth, but they lost touch as their careers took them in different directions. He offers to show her the parts of Scotland he swears will spark life back into her brushes. And as they tour the sights on the back of his motorcycle, Sorcha realizes that under the tattoos and smart mouth, Danny may inspire more in her than just a new painting.
But as a good time begins to morph into an ever after, Sorcha is reminded of old wounds that just won’t heal. Danny tries to open her heart, but her self-imposed isolation makes things harder than ever. Now she must decide what to do, because what happens in the ruins doesn’t always stay there.
This is Sorcha Mackinnon and Danny Gordon's story.
I stared at the blank canvas, my paintbrush tapping against the easel. The same canvas had been empty for almost two weeks straight and I just couldn’t bring myself to do anything with it. It just sat in the corner of my room, mocking me. I was so close to tossing it out the bleeding window.
A row of paintings I had done during the winter were lined up against the far wall, but those didn’t seem much better than the half-finished ones stacked out of sight in the closet. They were one landscape after the other, the same hues of grey and green that dominated the Scottish countryside in the colder months. They were bland and boring, nothing like the vibrant works from my last show, Flowers by Sorcha Mackinnon. It was a pity. I’d have to scrap them all.
There was a knock on my door and my cousin’s girlfriend Rose poked her head in without waiting for a response. “Hey, Sorcha, you busy?”
I looked up and saw a pen, then I followed the leather-clad arm up to a scruffy jawline with a mouth set up in a smile, a pair of black Ray-Bans, and a shock of dark hair. “Danny? Danny Gordon?”
“The very same.” I stood and hugged him. “It’s been a long time since I’ve seen you properly. I heard you set up in Inverness.”
“Ye heard right,” he said, pulling away. “I’ve a few properties I manage in Nairn, so I go back a forth a wee bit.”
What Happens in the Ruins by Kelsey McKnight is a 3 star book.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book."
Kelsey 's Books with Tule:
What Happens in the Highlands
The What Happens Series
What Happens in the Ruins
The What Happens Series
Can she stop her past from ruining her future?
Sorcha Mackinnon isn’t your typical tortured artist. She is also a party girl, a vintage shopper, and the heiress to a whisky fortune. But when inspiration suddenly flies out the window, she’s left with an empty whisky glass and a blank canvas…until a childhood friend waltzes back into her life.
She’s known Danny Gordon since birth, but they lost touch as their careers took them in different directions. He offers to show her the parts of Scotland he swears will spark life back into her brushes. And as they tour the sights on the back of his motorcycle, Sorcha realizes that under the tattoos and smart mouth, Danny may inspire more in her than just a new painting.
But as a good time begins to morph into an ever after, Sorcha is reminded of old wounds that just won’t heal. Danny tries to open her heart, but her self-imposed isolation makes things harder than ever. Now she must decide what to do, because what happens in the ruins doesn’t always stay there.
This is Sorcha Mackinnon and Danny Gordon's story.
I stared at the blank canvas, my paintbrush tapping against the easel. The same canvas had been empty for almost two weeks straight and I just couldn’t bring myself to do anything with it. It just sat in the corner of my room, mocking me. I was so close to tossing it out the bleeding window.
A row of paintings I had done during the winter were lined up against the far wall, but those didn’t seem much better than the half-finished ones stacked out of sight in the closet. They were one landscape after the other, the same hues of grey and green that dominated the Scottish countryside in the colder months. They were bland and boring, nothing like the vibrant works from my last show, Flowers by Sorcha Mackinnon. It was a pity. I’d have to scrap them all.
There was a knock on my door and my cousin’s girlfriend Rose poked her head in without waiting for a response. “Hey, Sorcha, you busy?”
I looked up and saw a pen, then I followed the leather-clad arm up to a scruffy jawline with a mouth set up in a smile, a pair of black Ray-Bans, and a shock of dark hair. “Danny? Danny Gordon?”
“The very same.” I stood and hugged him. “It’s been a long time since I’ve seen you properly. I heard you set up in Inverness.”
“Ye heard right,” he said, pulling away. “I’ve a few properties I manage in Nairn, so I go back a forth a wee bit.”
What Happens in the Ruins by Kelsey McKnight is a 3 star book.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book."
Kelsey 's Books with Tule:
What Happens in the Highlands
The What Happens Series
What Happens in the Ruins
The What Happens Series
September 5, 2020
Sorcha was a fun character, she had a great personality and she was always speaking her mind. She was an artist but money wasn't a problem for her. And she was always out for a good time. She also had a troubled past because she lost her twin brother. So sometimes you think she was trying to cover up her hurt or maybe she just wanted a good time. She also lost some of her inspiration for her art and had to look elsewhere to find it.
Danny was a friend from the past who has spent some time with her and knows the things that might get her inspiration back. I really enjoyed both characters and think you will too.
Danny was a friend from the past who has spent some time with her and knows the things that might get her inspiration back. I really enjoyed both characters and think you will too.
June 29, 2019
What Happens in the Ruins is book two in Kelsey McKnight’s What Happens series, and unfortunately, I somehow missed book one. This book had great potential and the wonderful descriptive aspect was simply delightful and left me felling like I actually could picture this amazing vista. And while I love everything even remotely leading towards kilts, a sex Scot and that alluring brogue, I was somewhat disappointed with the lead characters, as I struggled to connect with Sorcha and her spoilt, trust fund persona. An OK story, but not great; other than the beautiful landscape descriptions.
June 3, 2023
Beautifully written story
The author takes you to many beautiful places in the Scottish highlands and paints their beauty in words that draws you into the group of people in this story. You know there is something wrong with the principal character and we are lead into this book to find out what ties these characters together. It is a wonderful book of love, forgiveness and family. I'm sure you will enjoy reading it and I would recommend it to anyone who loves romance. Looking forward to reading more from this author!
The author takes you to many beautiful places in the Scottish highlands and paints their beauty in words that draws you into the group of people in this story. You know there is something wrong with the principal character and we are lead into this book to find out what ties these characters together. It is a wonderful book of love, forgiveness and family. I'm sure you will enjoy reading it and I would recommend it to anyone who loves romance. Looking forward to reading more from this author!
July 27, 2019
Loved this book! Some times the people who seem to be free spirits are not free at all. The carefree main character of this book is running from a loss she's never dealt with. Failing to deal with these emotions not only blocks her creativity, but her chances for happiness as well. Can she face her pain and move on? You'll just have to read "What Happens in the Ruins" to find out. You will not be sorry you did. Bravo Kelsey McKnight! You have another winner!
January 30, 2020
charming and heartbreaking. Sorcha's story about her brothers death his me hard, as I lost my sister last year. The author did a great job of capturing the pain you feel when a sibling is gone. Danny was so cute in how he pulled her out of her shell. them bonding over highland sights and their shared loss was really special. sorcha was so sweet and thoughtful to her friends too, like when she set up the special dress fitting for her friend in New York. AND she had a cat--which I loved!
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