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The Hiverton Sisters #3

High Heels in the Highlands

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Clementine’s swapped a London flat for a Scottish castle – but will she get her fairytale ending?

After discovering they had inherited an enormous fortune, as well as the titles of ‘Lady’, the lives of the five Hiverton sisters have never been the same.

While oldest sister Ariana settles in Norfolk, fashion designer Clementine heads to the Scottish Highlands to investigate their newly inherited castle. Not bad for a girl brought up in poverty in a tiny house in East London…

However, Lady Clem quickly finds out that Ruacoddy Castle is falling to pieces, the neighbours – especially grumpy young farmer, Rory – are suspicious of her and the eccentric housekeeper, Ottoline, is still in residence.

But just as Clem starts to embrace her new life in the Highlands, growing closer to Rory and forming a friendship with Ottoline, she stumbles upon a secret in the attic that could destroy the Hiverton family. Can she save the castle as well as her family’s reputation?

And will she ever find a pair of high-heeled wellies…?

362 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 24, 2021

17 people are currently reading
256 people want to read

About the author

Liz Hurley

48 books48 followers

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 92 reviews
Profile Image for Berit☀️✨ .
2,095 reviews15.7k followers
March 29, 2021
A fun feel good frolic in Scotland.I’ve enjoyed all the stories in this series about these sisters who have inherited titles and property. This is Clem’s story... Clem is a fashion designer in London who now finds herself in the middle of nowhere Scotland. She has been sent to Scotland to see if it is worth the money for the family to hold onto the property. While there she meets all kinds of colorful characters including Otto and Rory. I really loved the setting of Scotland and the town. The story was filled with loads of laugh out loud and feel good moments. My only teeny tiny complaint is there wasn’t quite as much romance as I would’ve liked. Looking forward to what these sisters get up to next.
Profile Image for Jacqueline.
1,717 reviews161 followers
February 19, 2021
2.5 identity crisis stars

Strange this one, it looked like a Rom com but the romance and comedy were absent for most of it. I loved the village life, the castle, the scenery, the villagers and the uplifting way Clem dusted herself off and got back on her feet again.

I found the narrative a bit odd, skipping around from person to person; some of the characters were well developed and likeable but others were forgettable or just mentioned in passing which made some of the scenes seem chaotic and difficult to follow. I was really interested in Rory but he spent next to no time with Clem and there was nothing much resembling chemistry, tension or romance between them. I was also bemused at the scenes at the V & A which seemed far fetched to me. I wish the romance and relationships between people and the community as a whole had been a bigger part of this than the art sub plot, that left me cold.

This is part of a series and I haven’t read the others and I think I missed quite a bit of the backstory in doing that.

I’m sure if romance isn’t your thing and you’re looking for something quirky and escapist this will fit the bill but it wasn’t really for me I’m afraid, sorry.

**Thanks to the publisher via netgalley for the arc.**
Profile Image for Alaina.
7,347 reviews203 followers
June 2, 2021
I have received this ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

I don't know about you.. but traveling through books seems to be the way to go lately. Not that I'm complaining because.. people and COVID aren't my cup of tea right now. So when I saw that I got the chance to go to Scotland with High Heels in the Highlands. Well, this girl right here didn't hesitate one bit to jump into it. Along with a cup of tea of course!

In this, you will meet Clem. She is a fashion designer in London. Well, she was because now she is in Scotland! Of course, she is there for a mission to see if the property is even worth keeping. Along the way, she ends meeting people that probably change her for the better. Or the point of view on Scotland.

Now I'm not sure if I have a favorite character right now but I do know that I want to go to Scotland whenever I freaking can. Just to see the sights and everything. Maybe even try the food out. Oh heck, I just need an adventure stat!
Profile Image for Lyn.
234 reviews31 followers
February 9, 2021
I remember walking in the middle of nowhere in Scotland and thinking, why am I here!? This is exactly what the main protagonist was feeling in the beginning of the book. Although she quickly discovered her passion for Scotland, my sense of confusion remained throughout the story. Her sudden very extreme mood changes and changes in attitude belongs to the character but feels very strange to me. I couldn't follow her thoughts and her decisions. The fact that she annoyed me didn't help either.

'...she had watched, flabbergasted, when girls with nothing between their ears but a pretty smile and beseeching eyes would sail to the front of the queue to get the best jobs, snaffle the richest men. What would they do when their looks faded and their waistlines got fat?'

Oh lord. Maybe then you'll find out they are still very capable of their jobs? What kind of misogynistic remark is it!?

The inconsistency is not only for her character. When you think you can focus on one person's perspective, the next line you read turned out to be the thought of someone else. The switch of perspectives was very random and unnecessary. This is the first time that I would rather have one book written in first-person narrative.

The plot was interesting, I like how the two ladies changed from enemies to friends and how the lady picked up her career again. But the pacing was weird. How do you seize a conflict&solve session in the last 3% of the book!? It's just bizarre and I couldn't believe the progress bar on my Kindle.

So yeah, love the highlands vibes, but the book unfortunately wasn't for me.
Profile Image for Staceywh_17.
3,667 reviews12 followers
February 7, 2021
Yes, this is written by a lady called Liz Hurley. No, it isn't the actress who's famous for 'that' dress 🧷

It wasn't till I'd got more than a few chapters in as I marked it down on Goodreads as reading, that I realised this was part of a series, but it can be read as a standalone, as I soon found out more about the Hiverton sisters & their backgrounds.

Not everyday you find you've inherited a castle up in The Highlands is it? This is exactly what's happened to the Hiverton sisters, or should that be 'ladies' to give them their newly inherited titles. Clementine heads to Scotland to their newly inherited home, the delapidated Ruacoddy Castle, what will she discover & just exactly what secrets is the attic hiding?

Many thanks to Netgalley for my ARC in return for my honest review.

I gave this book a 4 ⭐ rating
Profile Image for Suzanne.
167 reviews
September 2, 2024
Liked this book more than the second one, less miscommunication and I do like feisty main characters, even though it was a bit much sometimes. I also quite liked Rory, even though he wasn't fleshed out as much as the other books' love interests
Profile Image for Megan (BookWifeReviews).
1,564 reviews54 followers
March 24, 2021
I struggled with this book. In fact I almost didn't even finish it. I had a hard time following the story. The writing felt very confusing. It jumped around alot. One minute we were listening to one character and then mid thought we would be getting a different characters thoughts. The switch in perspectives was very random and confusing. I think the writing was meant to be whimsical but it just came of as erratic.

I also wasn't a fan of Clem. She was very selfish... maybe that's not the right word.. self involved maybe? Not sure but she was very focused on her own needs. She didn't care at all about how her actions would affect anyone else.

Really the only thing I truly enjoyed about this book was the setting. The author did a fantastic job of making it feel like I was in the highlands. I did really like that. But it wasn't enough to make up for the rest of the book.

I wanted to like this book so much. The cover is adorable and very eye catching but I really just didn't enjoy it.
Profile Image for booksofallkinds.
1,020 reviews175 followers
March 24, 2021
*I voluntarily reviewed this book from the tour organiser.

With a colourful cover that is fun and inviting, I'm delighted to say that I found the story inside equally as engaging.

Clem and her sisters grew up knowing what it was like to be poor but the love of their parents more than made up for it. But now they have inherited their Uncle's huge estate in Scotland, their situations in life have certainly changed. After getting betrayed by someone she thought she could trust, fashion designer Clem decides that checking out the castle will be a welcome distraction from her troubles but nothing could have prepared her for life in the Highlands. From the stunning scenery to the breathtaking stillness of the air, Clem falls in love with Scotland instantly. But when she rubs the housekeeper up the wrong way on the first day, finds herself rescuing sheep from ditches in a snowstorm, and starts to unravel the mess that is the finances of the estate, Clem had plenty to get her head around. And that's before she uncovers a buried secret in the attic ...

Engaging characters, a stunning castle in the highlands for a setting, and a mystery that will keep you hooked, and HIGH HEELS IN THE HIGHLANDS by Liz Hurley is a wonderful read to get lost in. I loved all of the characters in this book and the sense of friendship and community that came alive on the page and the way the author describes the Highlands truly transported me there every time. This book is a part of a series centred on the sisters but can be easily read as a standalone.

HIGH HEELS IN THE HIGHLANDS by Liz Hurley is a thoroughly enjoyable story and I highly recommend it to fiction fans.
Profile Image for Dawn Probert.
515 reviews6 followers
February 20, 2021
This review is my honest review in exchange for a free arc from netgalley.

This is the second book I have read about the sisters. At first I just thought it was familiar but then it dawned on me.
Clementine and her sisters have recently discovered they are the rightful heirs to a family dynasty. They are each a Lady.
After years of living in east end poverty each of the sisters bow has the time and money to shine.
Clementine is a budding fashion designer and she soon integrates herself into the local community of the family pad in the highlands by making herself known.
She makes friends with the locals including Rory.
Rory and his large family love in the next farm.
I loved the unassuming nature of Lady Clem and the abrasive but ultimately kind hearted Otto.

In short, his is a favourite series of books and I will be recommending them and also seeking the other out to catch up.
Profile Image for Julie - One Book More.
1,320 reviews236 followers
April 1, 2021
A story of new beginnings and second chances, High Heels in the Highlands follows Clementine as she travels to the Scottish Highlands to learn more about a newly inherited castle. Clem has such a wonderful character arc, and she grows so much throughout the story. Dejected and defeated at the start of the book, Clem’s trip to the Highlands changes her. Clem has a lot on her plate, and a lot of people are depending on her. However, the pressure she puts on herself is greater. Being in the Highlands, meeting and connecting with new people, and experiencing rural life reignites her passion and inspiration. It makes her believe in herself again. Learning struggles throughout her life make her feel less than, but in the Highlands, Clem finds herself and realizes her worth.

One of my favorite parts of the book is the abundance of dynamic and independent women. I love that, as Clem is finding herself, she’s surrounded by so many strong women who live their lives by their own rules. Newfound friends, sisters, and even the ornery and antagonistic Otto inspire Clem to live her best life and be true to herself.

I also love the relationship between Clem and her sisters. They are very different people, each unique in her own right, and yet they are a strong unit. Rory and his family are so similar to Clem and her sisters in that they love unconditionally. The support, teasing, lively conversations, and irritation among the sisters and Rory’s family are relatable, realistic, and engaging.

The slow-building romance, though not the entire focus of the novel, is lovely. Rory is calm and serious. Clem is carefree and impulsive. Rory is solid and dependable, and people see him as a leader. Clem’s whimsical and sometimes prickly attitude is the perfect compliment to Rory’s more reserved and controlled demeanor. Both Clem and Rory are kind and caring people, thoughtful in nature and loyal to those they love. I love the way they slowly grow closer, and their chemistry is great!

A sub-plot involves Otto, the caretaker of the castle whose past is shrouded in mystery. It’s clear that Otto is hiding something, and how it relates to Clem and her family slowly unfolds as the story progresses. I found this aspect of the story intriguing, and I loved how this older, difficult woman slowly grows closer to Clem. Theirs is a unique relationship, bound by mutual respect and a love for the castle they both inhabit, and their interactions are equally hilarious and awkward, which makes for some entertaining scenes.

I thoroughly enjoyed High Heels in the Highlands. Clem is well-layered and interesting, the setting is gorgeous and vivid, and the romance is great. I also like the subplots and minor characters and am curious if Clem’s sisters might be the focus of future books. I would love to learn more about them and their lives! Thanks so much to Rachel’s Random Resources and Liz Hurley for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.
Profile Image for Chandra Sundeep.
261 reviews26 followers
June 25, 2021
High Heels in the Highlands is the fourth book in The Hiverton series. The cover page mentions it to be an uplifting, heart-warming romantic comedy; and it is exactly that! Ari, Clem, Nick, Paddy and Aster–are the five Hiverton sisters. Brought up in a loving family, the death of their parents under unforeseen circumstances leads to Ari and Clem becoming the guardians for the younger siblings. I simply adored the powerful bond the sister’s share. Each one so different from the other in temperament and behavior; and yet always there for each other.

An unexpected inheritance brings about a change in fortune. From a dirt-poor family, they become Countesses or Ladies–owners of the vast Hiverton Estate in Scotland. Ari, the eldest daughter, inherits a castle after the demise of their maternal uncle. An uncle they never knew existed!

The main protagonist of this cute rom-com is Clem. She is not a ‘perfect’ heroine, she has her flaws. Prone to sudden outbursts, reading disabilities, foul-mouthed and yet underneath all her quirks is a kind-hearted person who is helpful and forgiving. She is a talented fashion designer, who is deceived by her boss, Symeon Fransesco. Clem volunteers to visit the Ruacoddy Castle and understand the affairs of the estate. She starts off on the wrong foot with Ottoline Farano, or Otto the Housekeeper, who is rude, judgmental and bossy. The relationship mellows with time, as both learn to trust each other and develop a warm and beautiful friendship.

A visit to the supermarket on a snowy evening turns exciting, as she falls into a ditch trying to free a trapped sheep. And therein comes our hero, Rory Gowan, a local farmer. It is not love at first sight, for he is an awful bearded man who looks dreadful to Clem. But with time their friendship blossoms into love, and a surprising confession by Clem in front of an entire congregation seals the deal.

Clem explores the castle, and a surprise discovery in the attic helps the sisters in coming up with a plan to keep the castle in the family, and not sell it. Everything seems to go well until the discovery of a fake art piece in the prestigious V&A gallery. Unfortunately for Clem, the person who has forged the art piece is close to her, and the idea of turning the person into the cops fills her with dread. Will the sisters save the castle, and the person involved?

Exotic locales, terrible weather, friendly yet quirky locals, a fashion show and on top of all - a heist makes this an exciting and delightful read.  

A must read for every die-hard romantic out there!

Thank you #NetGalley and #HeraBooks for the ARC.

BLOG | INSTA
Profile Image for Etta (Chonky Books Review).
1,271 reviews12 followers
April 2, 2021
High Heels in the Highlands is the third full-length novel in The Hiverton Sisters series. Each novel seems to focus on one of the five sisters and the timeline moves forward throughout. Although time is moving forward with some events in previous novels being mentioned in this one, the novel could technically be read as a standalone. As I did not read the previous two before reading this one, I can attest that a reader can understand everything in this book without issue. I am curious to read more about the other sisters based on their mentions throughout this story.

Clementine (“Clem”) Hiverton/Byrne is one of five sisters (Ariana, Aster, Clem, Paddy, and Nic). After an unfortunate separation with her former design partner, she now has free time to travel up to Scotland and figure out the details of the castle life that her family has inherited. During her visit, she must help make the decision if the castle estate is worth keeping or if it needs to be sold. My feelings on her as a character are very mixed as she is a stronger personality, but a lot of the time she came off rude and condescending. It seemed sometimes that she was annoyed to be there when she is the one that chose to be in charge. She did grow on me more as the story went on, though, and it was enjoyable to read about her learning experiences as she goes through sudden spring snow and random sheep on the side of the road.

There is a lot of plot packed into this novel, so it tended to lose focus on the romantic novel that I thought I was going to read. It did follow the description where our main character meets her neighbor, who becomes her love interest, while battling her housekeeper, and finally discovering a secret, but there were times it felt disjointed and tried to do too much at the same time. I appreciate the originality with the family secret, but it was a lot to pack in, so it does not get the attention it needed. Clem’s professional growth and character development was one of the storylines I loved. Clem’s passion for fashion design and her desire to become a well-known designer were admirable. In the writing, it was apparent that fashion is her true love and what she is destined to be for a career. When she, eventually, changes the ballroom into a design studio, it was very heart-warming to see how driven she was to do what she loved after being burned by her previous design contract. This part of her character was one of my favorites as she went through a lot from her former contract and felt defeated. She worked through a lot of emotions and attempted to find her passion again.

Clem and Rory, a neighboring farmer who becomes Clem’s love interest, barely interact throughout the novel and the times they were in the same “scene” together, they either argued or just were around each other. Either I missed the development for their feelings or it just wasn’t there, as I felt that they just suddenly decided they belonged together without actually spending much time together. It was not insta-love, as they did not immediately fall for the other, but it seemed like a sudden growth of feelings and I wanted more between them. Unfortunately, I loved Rory’s character, as he seemed fun and caring, but I just did not feel connected to their relationship. More time was spent on Clem’s time with Ottoline, the housekeeper, or with her own character growth, so I wish there was a little more on Rory.

Ottoline, the housekeeper, and Clem start off on the wrong foot. Otto appears to be judgmental and rude, but there is more to her than meets the eye. Over time, she and Clem start to get to know each other and realize that the other is not as bad as they initially thought. The development of their friendship was very enjoyable and seemed to be the main relationship focus of the story and I preferred to read about the two of them becoming closer than I did for Clem and Rory. Honestly, there were times that I could have taken out Rory’s part of the story and I feel the impact would have felt the same to me. I love romance in stories, but I felt that with so many other plots to focus on, then the romance was not needed as not a lot of attention was given to it.

Overall, this novel was a delight. True, I do have some pieces that I would have done differently, but my general experience was enjoyable. The descriptions of the scenery were fantastic and I could easily picture myself in small town Scotland living in a castle – if only! I love how Clem and Otto start working together to try and save the castle from being sold. They bond together over the discovered secret and it is entertaining to read about them trying to fix mistakes from the past. Clem’s learning disability that is most likely undiagnosed dyslexia and I found it to be portrayed well in the story. This story may not have been the romance novel that I was expecting, but it was a captivating story of growth, friendship, and Scotland! I would definitely be open to reading more from this series and discover more from each of Clem’s sisters. [3.5 rounded to 4]

**I want to give a special thank you to Netgalley and the publisher, Hera Books, for a review copy of this enjoyable novel. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.**
251 reviews
November 4, 2021
Thank you to Netgalley for a pre publication copy. In return for an honest #Highheelsinthehighlands #netgalley

Clem is one of give Hiverton sisters. Her sister Ari inherits a lot of land, money and property alongside the title of "Lady." Clem has just had the floor wiped of her by her ex employer. So Ari sends Clem to the Highlands to investigate what should be done with Ruacoddy Castle. Will Clem be able to turn her back or will she keep being drawn back?

The cover and title drew me to this book. Anyrhing Scottish is a winner and The bright and vibrant colours on the cover drew me straight in. The cover does really sum the book up. Since then this book has also been recommended to me.

I have also found out this is a part of a series but the author has made note this can be read as a stand alone book or in any order which I would agree.

Although this book is a romcom. Their are some emotional subjects included such as forgery, murder, evading the law, false contracts and death amongst many more. However the author doesn't go into that much detail for multiple aspects of this and uses it to just give some dimension to the story. The less emotional subjects, although still emotion provoking, have more depth.

The concept of the story is great and it provides many tears, laughs and thoughts along the way. You have many different emotions in just one chapter never mind the whole book. It has been put together so that all these emotions seamlessly flow throughout.

In addition I did find that Clem's character was not just strong minded and independent with 21st century ideas. She was rude to everyone she came across. This was tiresome very quickly and made you feel for the other characters. However this stopped abruptly pretty much halfway through. I think if the author wanted to keep the rudeness potentially Clem's character could have had her past explored more. So that the reader fully understood why each of her behaviours were like this.

Furthermore I found the book slightly slow to start but after about chapter three it really moves into first gear. Giving you unexpected turns all the way through to the last page.

Furthermore some parts of the story you were waiting for more. Eg Particularly the back stories to each character. Which were only hinted at, these could have done with being expanded to give a more holistic approach and understanding to each character. Even though this is part of a series. It can be read standalone therefore needs this extra information to expand that aspect of it. Looking at the back of the book each book is a different characters story therefore this also would point to say that back stories won't be in the other books unless to do with the other Characters too.

A warning to those who do not like swearing. This book has quite a bit of swearing in it. It doesn't take away from the book and is used in context. It didn't bother me in the slightest.

I found this book very hard to rate. What was given to the reader was solid and the book built a beautiful romcom. With a great and unexpected turns right until the last page. As well as providing some emotional narratives showing not everything can be taken at face value. However there remained parts where the reader is left wanting more of a backstop and Clem's rudeness cannot be overlooked. Therefore I feel this book is a 3.5 Stars out of 5. As opposed to a solid amount stars.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Alisha Eadle.
164 reviews50 followers
March 16, 2021
I would like to thank #Hera for sending me an #ARC of #HighHeelsInTheHighlands by #LizHurley via #NetGalley, in exchange for a fair and honest review.


High Heels in the Highlands is Liz Hurley's third addition to her Hiverton Sister's series, and centers around Clementine, an act-before-you-think woman, on the brink of success in the fashion world as a designer. When something happens that gets in the way of her success, she retreats to Scotland, to check out a castle in the highlands that her family inherited. When she gets there, she is in for a culture shock, but she is also in for the adventure of a lifetime.


When I was browsing through available arcs to request, High Heels in the Highlands stood out. It has a cute cover, the title is intriguing, and it says romantic comedy right on the cover. A Scottish hottie + comedy? I needed it. Unfortunately, that is where my excitement faded. High Heels in the Highlands gets points for originality, but I found the plot of the story drawn out and boring. I went into this thinking I was getting a romance, and instead got a "chick-fic". 95% of this book is about Clementine making an ass of herself (and not in a funny way, but a brutish way), and her bonding with the caretaker of the castle. The other 5% was her arguing with the man she was apparently interested in. There was no romance (or any that made sense), and the only thing that made me smile (not laugh, mind you, which, again, is supposed to be a comedy) was a part with a sheep. The writing was in third person, present tense, which is rarely executed well, and often, I was confused on what character we were concentrating on, as it bounced around frequently. Specific POV's would have been better.


I wish I could say the characters made up for the story, but unfortunately, I wasn't a fan of them either. Clementine was just plain rude a lot of the time, and her reactions with other characters were exaggerated given the situation. The best part of the book was Rory's character - and for a love interest, he is barely in it. I was left wondering how they could have developed feelings for one another, as the rare moments they were on page together, they were arguing. We get way more of Otto, the housekeeper, and her relationship with Clementine.


High Heels in the Highlands could have been great if Liz picked an idea, and stuck with it. If she wanted a romantic comedy, she should have had way more interaction between Clem and Rory, and more than one comedic moment. Clem could have still found her purpose and direction in life. Many romances pull it off. If she wanted a story of Clem just finding herself, and learning more about herself through the interactions with Otto, she should have done that, under the header of Women's fiction. Because that is what this is. It's certainly not a rom-com.


If you enjoy women's fiction, stories about women taking a hold of their lives, and in the setting of the beautiful Scottish Highlands, you will probably enjoy this book. But if you are looking for an actual romantic comedy, this book isn't for you
Profile Image for Meg.
53 reviews5 followers
March 3, 2021
The five Hiverton sisters discover an unexpected inheritance, which has given them the titles of ‘Lady’, a huge fortune, and Ruadoccy Castle in Scotland. This is a massive contrast to their humble beginnings in poverty. The girls accept this change and while oldest sister Ari gets established in Norfolk, Clementine decides to visit their Scottish Castle. Only to discover it isn’t quite what they were expecting.

High Heels in the Highlands provides wonderful escapism with Clem and her quest. The description is so vibrant. By inheriting a castle these characters have experienced a dream come true. Clearly, anything can happen and this has left me hoping that there is something in my ancestry that will mean I may inherit a castle. This is wishful thinking of course. But the village life described in Scotland was so humbling and added to the beautiful atmosphere. The description of the castle, along with scenery relates a lot to many castles I have visited, providing an authentic read. I haven’t been to Scotland myself and I would love to, especially if the highlands are like how Hurley so vividly writes. I like being transported to place and feel like I have been there even if I haven’t, and this book is no exception. I especially loved the snowy encounter of Clem and Rory.

The female characters in this novel are great but there could be room for more development – of all the characters. I enjoyed reading the protagonist but it did take me a while to realise that the chapters abruptly changed perspectives at times. The narration caused for some slight confusion. It is third person but I can’t help but wonder if it would be better in first. It appears to be the case that the narration tried to explain a lot to the reader and pile more into the story than what was necessary. However, it did allow for some characterisation elements, which were welcomed and you will especially see with Clem as you read it. You opinion of her will certainly fluctuate as you read on. I also enjoyed reading the dynamic between Clem and Otto. The mutual dislike to friends trope avoided clichés and paved for a well developed friendship. This was explored more than the romance in my opinion and I preferred it. In fact, the romance could have been entirely avoided and still allow for the same impact. The speech between characters allowed for a humorous element and read true to the characters.

It wasn’t until I finished the novel that I realised this book was part of a series. I am curious to read more but High Heels in the Highlands could easily be read as a standalone. I didn’t feel limited in knowledge of the sisters, but I would like to learn more of them now to engage with their story more! Hurley writes in the back matter that the books in this series can be read in any order, which is a very complex technique to pull off.

Overall, I did struggle with the plot in this book. I felt like the plot hindered some characters, while it progressed others. I rate this book 3 stars. I absolutely loved getting transported into the Highlands but there were elements that could have used some revision to ensure a clear novel.

Thank you Hera and NetGalley for this e-ARC.
Profile Image for M.K. Daure.
98 reviews2 followers
February 7, 2021
**Thanks to NetGalley and Hera Books for providing me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review.**

Clem Hiverton is a fashion designer who has recently been betrayed by her lover and mentor who stole her collection and fired her. Because her eldest sister Ari just inherited a title and a fortune, Clem volunteers to travel to Scotland to inspect a property that is part of the inheritance and determine if it can be monetized (it is currently a money pit) or sold. Clem almost immediately falls in love with the castle and the Highlands, but she clashes with the strong-willed housekeeper, Ottoline (Otto). As she works hard to find a way to save the property from being sold, save the jobs of the staff working there, and reclaim her inspiration, Clem and Otto learn to work together and even respect each other. But Otto has a secret that could ruin the Hiverton family, and Clem will have to decide how to handle a very tricky situation.

This book is entirely delightful. Clem is a prickly heroine, likely to fly into a rage at any moment, but quick to regret her hurtful words. Otto is equally prickly, but in contrast her calm is unshakeable. While there is what I would call a romantic romance in the novel, between Clem and local farmer Rory, it is the relationship between Clem and Otto that is the beating heart of this book. I don’t know if there is a female equivalent of bromance, but if there is this book is the embodiment of it. Clem’s relationship with her sisters, who are all unique and strong-willed in their own ways, and with the locals, like Mari the daughter of the pub owner, are all heart-warming and lovely. It is also interesting to note that Clem has a learning disability, probably undiagnosed dyslexia, which has a huge impaction her life, but doesn’t prevent her from being very intelligent and resourceful. It is rare to see something like this portrayed realistically and compassionately in fiction.

The setting is perfect: the description of beauty juxtaposed with the terrible weather give a realistic impression of the Highlands. The locals are warm and quirky, and I would be just about ready to move there if this book wasn’t fiction.

I don’t want to give spoilers, but at some point an element from another genre I absolutely loved is introduced, as if I didn’t already love this book enough. I give this book 4.5 stars, but the only reason the half star is deducted is because my personal rating system allows me to give five start only to books that made me cry, and this one warmed me to my core but was too uplifting to make me cry.

I didn’t know as I read that this book is part of the series, so there are more books to read about two of Clem’s sisters, with at least one more to come. Sadly, these are not set in Scotland, but I’m certain Hurley will make the other locales (one of them Cornwall) equally delightful.
Profile Image for Melanie Farmer.
185 reviews1 follower
May 10, 2021
So High Heels in the Highlands is the third novel in the series about the Hiverton sisters – if you want a quick catch up them please head over to check out my reviews of the first two books in the series; A New Life for Ariana Byrne and Cornish Dreams at Cockleshell Cottage

I adored the first 2 novels in this series, and High Heels in the Highlands was no exception. Lady Clementine is having a bit of a rough time in her career, and so when her older sister Ariana asks that she heads up to Scotland to check out their newly inherited Scottish castle, she is more than happy to do so. What she doesn’t anticipate though is the resident housekeeper and the local bearded young farmer. Clem is hot headed with a temper to match, but with her heart in the right place. She is fiercely loyal to her family, and will do what it takes to ensure that they are all safe and well. What she doesn’t anticipate though, particularly as a city dweller through and through, is falling in love with her castle. It ignites something in her – her passion for fashion, but it also gives her something to fight for. She finds herself working within her small community, and realising that the castle is just as important to peoples livelihoods as it is to hers. Add in a very stubborn housekeeper who hasn’t left the castle in decades and what follows is certainly not boring!

I love this series, I really do. It provides us with the familiarity of following one family, the Hiverton sisters, whilst also introducing us to a whole new story each time with a wealth of new characters. It’s the best of both worlds in terms of giving us a great standalone novel, whilst learning about a family member that you’ve already been briefly introduced to! The five sisters are all so different as well, so none of the stories can possibly be the same, even though they all experienced the same traumatic childhood following the loss of their parents at such a young age. Its like putting on your favourite comfortable cardigan but in a new colour!

I am more than happy to recommend this novel. It is a light easy that really draws you in and gets you to engage with the characters. I loved the dynamic between Clem and Otto, and I adore the fierce loyalty of the sisters to one another. If I was to have one gripe, it would be that the books haven’t been released in chronological order – it caused me a little confusion to begin with (you’ll understand if you’ve read the first two already) but if that’s the worst thing I can say then I think we are doing well! So please do go out and grab yourself a copy of this fabulous novel!
Profile Image for veronica.
862 reviews30 followers
February 28, 2021
this was my first liz hurley’s book and unfortunately, it did not work for me. i feel bad giving it such a bad review but since i did not enjoy reading it at all, i cannot rate it higher.

firstly, with all the respect, this was one of the most boring books i’ve ever read in my life. it was long and full of events that brought nothing to the plot and that i had no interest in reading about. it got a little better after 60% but the first half was very hard to get through and i really struggled with it. if not the fact the i’ve got an arc, i would definitely not continue reading it.

the other thing was romance. i actually expected this book to be a romance but if that’s what you’re after, you won’t find it in this book. clementine and rory had maybe eight scenes together, most of which were one-minute conversations. there was no development there and the characters had zero chemistry. i honestly wouldn’t mind poor romance if the plot was interesting, but like i’ve said before, it wasn’t.

another thing was clementine herself. one of the worst things for me that can happen in the book is not liking the main character because it immediately makes the story harder to enjoy. and i absolutely couldn’t stand clem. she was an adult and yet she was acting like a child almost all the time. she was often screaming and huffed when something went not the way she wanted to - i was sure at some point she will start stamping her feet, which wouldn’t surprise me at all (she didn’t, but still, you get the point). she was very annoying and hard to like.

what was also a problem to me were some things that was written in the book. i usually try not to analize every word or line and not to get angry while reading but i do think it is a possible to write a book that does not contain problematic statements. here’s two examples:

,,she had watched, flabbergasted, when girls with nothing between their ears but a pretty smile and beseeching eyes would sail to the front of the queue to get the best jobs, snaffle the richest men. What would they do when their looks faded and their waistlines got fat?”

,,thanking him, she offered to walk him to the front door, and she she said goodbye to him he realised that she hadn’t even offered him a drink. she really was lacking any feminine graces”

i’m sorry but what the hell?

so yes, this book was a total miss for me. i did not enjoy it and it is not a book i would recommend a friend.

1.5 stars.


- arc kindly provided by hera books via netgalley.
Profile Image for Maddie.
1 review
February 27, 2021
I really liked the author's descriptions, especially those of Scotland, and I rather enjoyed the writing style in terms of sentence flow and lexicon. I loved Clem's passion for designing, I thought that was well written and I liked her background of a big family of Hiverton sisters. Overall the characters were fairly good throughout, except for Otto and Clem right at the beginning - I was cringing at how one dimensional they both were in their singular combative emotional states. I understand that to take us on a relationship building journey, it has to start somewhere bad, but it was honestly excessive how disgustingly short tempered and hatefully rude they were to each other from the second they met.

This book is also just not a romance, Clem honestly interacts with her love interest about 5 times, and often with many other people present. That in itself doesn't make it a bad book but it is a definite misrepresentation. In the last quarter of the book, there are several really jarring mini POV switches to utterly insignificant characters and like 7 different subplots (art forgery, heist, mafia involvement, unexpected modelling, getting back at a power abusive boss, police trap, meeting with an old love) that appear and are resolved within 1-4 pages each, I would've instead loved to see more of Clem building relationships with the Scottish community. Her supposed new best friend doesn't get mentioned after about 70% and it makes the nice gesture Clem pulled off for Mari's wedding seem very performative and empty, only serving as very obvious exhibitionism from the author of how "well" Clem fits in. And as a book billed as a romance, definitely should've been more of Rory. Overall though it was entertaining enough and a nice fluffy read, so if you're okay with minimal romance and laughably ludicrous, utterly unrealistic, minor plot twists at the end that get solved extremely easily, then go for it!
Profile Image for Elaine - Splashes Into Books.
3,883 reviews136 followers
March 23, 2021
This is a fabulous feel-good, contemporary, romantic comedy and a great addition to this series involving five orphaned sisters who grew up in East London with loving parents and supportive neighbours but who struggled financially. They were shocked to discover that they were heiresses! You don’t need to have read the other stories in the series to enjoy this one but having met so many of the characters before did add to my enjoyment and understanding of this one.The oldest sister is Ariana and she’s settled in their new Norfolk home. Clem(entine) has travelled up to the Scottish Highlands to stay in their castle, Ruacoddy Castle, whilst she discovers more about their estate there and this is her story.

Clem has always struggled with reading and writing, they suspect she is dyslexic but has never been diagnosed. Despite this she is a very talented fashion designer – and volatile – young lady, who makes a lasting impression on those she meets! You need to read it for yourself to discover how her temper gets the better of her several times, get to know the people she meets, the new friends she makes and how she fights to prevent this Scottish estate being sold off.

There’s a mystery involving one of the folks resident in the castle, a great idea bringing the community together for a local’s wedding, discoveries to be made in the castle, a second chance romance and a new one, too, all packed into this fun, engaging family drama which had me laughing out loud and left me with a grin on my face. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this delightful story of community, family, attaining your dreams and love, complete with the added suspense and intrigue as well as humour which permeates it. Just wait till you read about her wellies and high heels – and what happens at the V&A!!

Thank you for my copy of this book which I have voluntarily read and honestly reviewed.
3,253 reviews33 followers
March 24, 2021
High Heels in the Highlands by Liz Hurley is the third (well there was a prequel novella too) in the un-named series surrounding the Byrne sisters after the eldest, Ariana, had inherited and become Right Honourable Lady de Foix, Countess of Hiverton, now owning multiple properties including Ruacoddy Castle in Scotland where she was to determine if it was worth keeping or if it should be sold. Clem (entine) was available to do this because her mentor and lover had just booted her to the curb and appropriated all her designs as his own. She was a clothing designer and he was a thief. The problem was, he had a contract on his side. She, being dyslexic and in love, hadn't read it. She had just signed it. Now she was surrounded by sheep. She found the castle, with everyone asleep apparently, used her key to get in, and promptly fell asleep on the sofa in the drawing room.

I am not a laugher but High Heels in the Highlands made me laugh out loud several times. It is advertised as a romantic comedy and it more than fills the bill. Clem is her own person. She speaks her mind, but she is caring and considerate of others. It takes her a while to find her legs in Scotland, but find them she does. She is finally able to make friends with the elderly housekeeper and discovers exciting tidbits about her family as well as the surrounding area. She changes the ballroom into a design studio and forges ahead, ready to conquer the world once more. This is a fabulous series, so new and fresh and creative. It is a clean rom-com series with each one better than the last. I cannot recommend it enough if you need light, humorous reading with a romantic bent. Give it a chance. You will not regret it!

I was invited to read High Heels in the Highlands by Netgalley. All thought and opinions are my own. #netgalley #highheelsinthehighlands
Profile Image for Anna.
50 reviews8 followers
March 5, 2021
I really fell head over heels in love with the story. It had everything I want from a good feelgood novel. A little lost main character with passion? Check. An ensemble of supporting characters that makes you want to move and become everyone’s friends? Check. Set in a place that makes me want to pack my bags and escape immediately? Check. A dash of romance with a nice love interest? Check.

I had a really hard time putting the book down and just wanted to continue reading it. The only negative thing about the book I could say is that the ending could have been a bit better done. Otherwise, I thought this book was just great! I am really looking forward to reading the books that already exist in the series and the books to come. Recommend it to all feelgood lovers out there!
I think it is sad that the genre “Feelgood” is not really a thing in English. In Sweden it is a very established genre among the public, publishers, and booksellers. Because I saw some reviews that was not a fan of the book because they thought it was going to be a rom com. This book is not a rom com it is a feelgood story and in feelgood the romance takes a backseat, and the focus is the struggles of the main character. I just thought it was sad that such a good book got bad reviews because people not liking the genre picked it up thinking it was another genre all together.


I also found a small plot hole in the story page 580.

Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Ashley Tyler.
1,286 reviews58 followers
February 20, 2021
Thank you author Liz Hurley, Hera, and NetGalley for giving me a copy of this Arc in exchange for an honest review! All thoughts and opinions are my own!
3.5 stars
While this book is the fourth one in a series, it can be read as a stand alone. This book follows Clementine to the hills of Scotland to look over her family's newly inherited castle. As Clem begins to spend time in the village and the castle staff, Clem begins to try to come up with ways to save the castle.
This book had a great premise. The author did an amazing job creating the Scottish atmosphere for the reader including village and castle life. The character development throughout this book was a little all over the place. Some of the characters were well developed and showed growth; while other characters seemed to be one dimensional and not really memorable. I thought the author could have done away with some of the non plot driven characters. This would have helped the reader keep track of the more important characters. Clementine was not a very likeable person at times. She seemed to be self-absorbed and had a hard time asking the right questions about the running of the castle and/or asking for advice from the more seasoned staff on ways to save the castle. I did like how helped out with making a beautiful wedding dress for one of the women. Rory and Clementine's relationship was a little under developed and awkward. I would have much rather them develop a solid friendship rather than a romantic one. Overall, this was a middle of the road book for me! I would like to read more books by this author. Her settings and writing are beautiful.
Profile Image for Hayley Marsland.
366 reviews
August 14, 2023
I am absolutely loving this series.

This is the third book, in which we get to find out more about Clem.

After inheriting the vast Hiverton fortune, the five Byrne sisters also have an impressive portfolio of properties, including a castle in Scotland, and it is here that Clem has come to live.

On arrival Lady Clem discovers that the castle is falling to pieces, the neighbours are suspicious, and the rather eccentric housekeeper, Ottoline is still in residence.

Gradually Clem embraces her new establishment, what staff that are left seem friendly enough, and want to work for her, she becomes closer to local young farmer Rory, and even manages to call a bit of a truce, and dare I say it, a fledgling friendship with Ottoline.

But a discovery in the vast attic of the castle, threatens to destroy the Hiverton family.

Now not only does Clem have to try and save the castle, but her family's reputation too.

I must admit, I really like Clem as a character, she is definitely the feistiest of the sisters, infact her temper is something else, and her language is absolutely atrocious, but she somehow still manages - eventually - to get people on side, this is proved to be the case, when a young local girl who is eight months pregnant and about to get married, is in need of a wedding dress.

Clem, who is a talented fashion designer, gathers together friends and family, of the girl, from the community, to help embroider motifs into the veil of the wedding dress, a move that further endears her to the locals.

An excellent read, with just one more left in the series, which I will be reading very soon.
Profile Image for Judith Miguel.
Author 4 books35 followers
April 5, 2021
The first thing I’m going to say about this book is that is not a romance story, I think it should be considered women fiction.
After discovering they had inherited an enormous fortune, as well as the titles of ‘Lady’, the lives of the five Hiverton sisters have never been the same.
Fashion designer Clementine heads to the Scottish Highlands to investigate their newly inherited castle. However, Lady Clem quickly finds out that Ruacoddy Castle is falling to pieces, the neighbors – especially grumpy young farmer, Rory – are suspicious of her and the eccentric housekeeper, Ottoline, is still in residence.
But just as Clem starts to embrace her new life in the Highlands, growing closer to Rory and forming a friendship with Ottoline, she stumbles upon a secret in the attic that could destroy the Hiverton family. Can she save the castle as well as her family’s reputation?
I give this book a four start review because it’s beautifully written and the characters are deep and really nice developed. At the beginning I have my doubts about Clem, she is kind of a spoiled brat, but as the story keeps going, you can feel all her emotions and wins you over. Rory, who’s just a secondary character, is cute and absolutely adorable. Maybe too sweet for her?
I really enjoy this book even though I much prefer romances. And of course Scotland, so anyone should make room for this one.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for LivinLaVidaLibros.
78 reviews5 followers
April 10, 2021
This is the 3rd book in the Hiverton Sisters Series and so far the most amusing between the three. Thank you to Netgalley and Hera Books for the advanced reading copy of the book.

I took the time to read the first two books before reading this one in order to get a better sense of the story. I am glad that I did and would recommend it to other readers. They are relatively quick reads!

I enjoyed Clem’s practicality and tenacity. The women in the series definitely shine and I found them to be much more complex than their male counterparts. I would have liked more interactions with her and Rory in the book and ultimately loved their happy ending. 💕

Perhaps the biggest challenge for me to give the book a higher rating is the writing and pacing of the book. Keep in mind that I read all three consecutively in the span of 2 weeks so I was immersed in the prose. There is a tremendous amount of exposition and not enough discovery for the reader to interpret the character’s intention. What could be achieved in a conversation is instead explained away through narration. This is more of author’s choice and I think it missed the mark for me. There is also an abundance of the use of the word “whilst” especially in the first book.

By the third book, the writing does become better. The characters are plenty so good to keep track of them throughout the series because they do make cameos in each of the stories so far.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Sydney Palmer.
27 reviews7 followers
February 9, 2021
***ARC provided by Netgalley in exchange for honest review ****

Scottish men, castles , fashion design and a clumsy protagonist who speaks her mind, right away I knew this was going to be my kind of book.

It all starts out when the main character Clem (Clementine) is screwed over by her horrible boss and needs a place to lay low while she figures out her next moves. Enter the beautiful Scottish estate her sister has inherited , complete with horrible electric and a surly house maid who butt heads with Clem from the start.The readers get to follow her on her journey of self discovery and I personally enjoyed seeing the main character Clem grow independently as a woman before finding herself a man.

The additional perspectives provided by the housekeeper Otto were welcome and I really enjoyed the bickering between her and Clem and was happy when I began to warm up to her that Clem did as well because Otto slowly became a favorite character of mine. My one criticism would be that in the chapters that switch perspectives it is not labeled, which can at times be confusing. But I am not sure if that will be resolved before the final publishing date!

I was not aware that this was a part of a series and will definitely be looking up the others to add to my TBR!
Profile Image for Hillary.
417 reviews8 followers
March 6, 2021
This book had a lot of potential. I loved the cover and the concept. In it, Clementine Byrne goes to visit the castle she and her sisters recently inherited to determine if it’s worth saving or selling. When she arrives she butts heads with the elderly woman, Otto, who cares for the castle, but the two have more in common than they originally think as they work together to save the castle. This book has a hint of rags to riches as well as an elderly mentor, both of which are tropes I enjoy. I loved the setting of this book and the roll fashion played in the story was fun. However, I had a hard time getting into the story. I felt like certain key details were missing, especially when it came to Otto’s background, and while I can appreciate a character with a temper, Clem’s ability to go from totally fine to murderously angry with no warning gave me a bit of whiplash. I did enjoy Clem’s interactions with the village locals as well as some of her misadventures. I found Otto’s character fascinating and wish I could have learned more about her.

*I received a complimentary copy of this novel. All opinions expressed are my own.
Profile Image for Anuradha Goel.
74 reviews9 followers
March 23, 2021
The book is about to release in a few days, and here I am with the review of this amazing book.

1. This is the third book in the Wiverton Sisters series but can be read individually. This is my first book by the author and I am in love with her writing.
2. I love the how she describes everything beautifully and has captured the beauty of Scotland so well.
3. The book is about the lives of the five Wiverton sisters whose life suddenly changes after they inherit an enormous fortune, as well as the titles of ‘Lady’.
4. The book mainly revolves around the life of fashion designer Clem, one of the Wiverton sisters.
5. The book takes us through the life of Clem as she embraces her new life in the Highlands, her feelings towards Rory and an unexpected friendship with Ottoline.

The book talks about love, friendship, family and the special bond of the Wiverton Sisters.
The book is funny, emotional and has so many touching moments.
It is so close to reality and yet very near to a fairy tale.

The book was like a romantic movie for me. Although I absolutely loved the book, still I wish I could live more of Rory and Clem through the book.
Profile Image for Sara | sara.reads.too.much.
1,013 reviews30 followers
February 7, 2021
Have the urge to go to Scotland? Because this book is just what you need!

With the quarantine and travelling plans put to a halt, it's always nice to discover new worlds through words and this book was the perfect getaway for Scotland! So much detail and thought went into the setting, making sure the reader saw exactly what the author was imagining at the moment. It was nice to get a glimpse into the author's mind but to also make it our own in our own imagination.

This really was a feel good book. I love the name Clementine for starters, how cute and feel-good is that name? Clementine herself was a very hot-headed and stubborn character which made her all the more likable and perfect for Rory. Also, the fact that she's a fashion designer that goes to live in a run-down castle in a rural area is just wonderful juxtaposition!

This is my first book I've read in this series and by Liz Hurley and I am determined to read about the rest of the sisters and their adventures!

Thank you to NetGalley and Hera for the earc in return for an honest review.
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