What do you think?
Rate this book
The Highlands #1
Coming Home to the Highlands
Sometimes life is full of surprises, especially when you least expect them…
Born into the Scottish Clan MacBain and the 17th century ancestral home, Drumblair Castle, Liv MacBain has always dreamt of leaving the ancient homestead and becoming her own person in the world of fashion.
From a young age, she worshipped the trailblazing designs of the haute couture glitterati, hoping one day to join them.
With older brother Kerr, the rightful heir, Liv has been free to spread her wings.
Fast forward. Liv, is now 28 years old, working at a high-end fashion house and living her dream life in New York. She’s never been happier.
Until everything changes with one devastating phone call from her brother, Kerr, that brings her rushing back to Scotland.
Old friends and adversaries resurface and Liv faces a difficult decision that could mean her dream future can no longer be a reality.
Or can you have your castle and your career?
Born into the Scottish Clan MacBain and the 17th century ancestral home, Drumblair Castle, Liv MacBain has always dreamt of leaving the ancient homestead and becoming her own person in the world of fashion.
From a young age, she worshipped the trailblazing designs of the haute couture glitterati, hoping one day to join them.
With older brother Kerr, the rightful heir, Liv has been free to spread her wings.
Fast forward. Liv, is now 28 years old, working at a high-end fashion house and living her dream life in New York. She’s never been happier.
Until everything changes with one devastating phone call from her brother, Kerr, that brings her rushing back to Scotland.
Old friends and adversaries resurface and Liv faces a difficult decision that could mean her dream future can no longer be a reality.
Or can you have your castle and your career?
290 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 4, 2023
605 people are currently reading
495 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 123 reviews
April 8, 2023
Kerr is such a selfish entitled prick. He is just nasty and stuck up - well done to the author for writing such a character that it has given be such emotions - brilliant writing though I do want to throw my phone a few times every time he came into the story 😊 - in glad he kind of for a redemption arc but Im still suspicious!
I loved this setting - I've been lucky to visit the Highlands and it now holds a special place in my heart so this book was right for me. The way the author described the castle and it's grounds was beautiful and I could easily picture It.
I love the diverse range of characters and the lgbtqia representation! 🏳️🌈 Also the author brings to light the important issue of domestic abuse on men and the stigma around that - the author did it very empathically but a note as a trigger warning for some.
The cover was beautiful and perfectly reflects the story! The doggos - adorable 🥰
I loved this setting - I've been lucky to visit the Highlands and it now holds a special place in my heart so this book was right for me. The way the author described the castle and it's grounds was beautiful and I could easily picture It.
I love the diverse range of characters and the lgbtqia representation! 🏳️🌈 Also the author brings to light the important issue of domestic abuse on men and the stigma around that - the author did it very empathically but a note as a trigger warning for some.
The cover was beautiful and perfectly reflects the story! The doggos - adorable 🥰
April 6, 2023
Olivia always dreamt of leaving her ancient homestead of Drumblair Castle in Scotland and striking out into the world of fashion. As the youngest child of the MacBain clan, responsibility for the Castle will eventually fall to her brother Kerr, leaving her free chase her dreams.
Now 28, she's spent several years working for a top fashion house in New York and loves her life. That is, until a shocking call from her brother brings her home and throws her future into turmoil. Can she make Scotland her home once more? Or will she head back to the dream life she'd built for herself?
Although there were several romances within this book, this was primarily a story about family (both biological and found), duty and the determination of a young woman to do the best she can. Olivia was lucky enough to be able to live out her dreams and I was glad that when duty called, she didn't simply give it all up without a second thought.
I love a friends to lovers romance, although it remained up in the air until the final chapter of the book. I enjoyed that there were two childhood friends who appeared as suitors, but did guess each of the twists before they were announced. Ultimately, I really enjoyed this book and will happily read more of the Author's work.
Thank you to Author Lisa Hobman, Netgalley & Boldwood Books for providing me with this ARC. This review was written willingly and all opinions are my own. The book is available now and I recommend you grab a copy 💕
Now 28, she's spent several years working for a top fashion house in New York and loves her life. That is, until a shocking call from her brother brings her home and throws her future into turmoil. Can she make Scotland her home once more? Or will she head back to the dream life she'd built for herself?
Although there were several romances within this book, this was primarily a story about family (both biological and found), duty and the determination of a young woman to do the best she can. Olivia was lucky enough to be able to live out her dreams and I was glad that when duty called, she didn't simply give it all up without a second thought.
I love a friends to lovers romance, although it remained up in the air until the final chapter of the book. I enjoyed that there were two childhood friends who appeared as suitors, but did guess each of the twists before they were announced. Ultimately, I really enjoyed this book and will happily read more of the Author's work.
Thank you to Author Lisa Hobman, Netgalley & Boldwood Books for providing me with this ARC. This review was written willingly and all opinions are my own. The book is available now and I recommend you grab a copy 💕
December 16, 2025
Lisa Hobman returns with a brand new series, this time set in the Highlands where we see Olivia meet the demands of being a lady and a successful New York fashion designer.
I enjoyed the juxtaposition that is created between Olivia’s two worlds. On the one hand, she is pulled back to New York where she has established herself in a successful fashion house. Having lived here many years, it is like a second home to her and Olivia has very supportive friends around her, too. However, after the death of her mother she is forced to return home and become involved in running the estate – a very large estate. It’s not something she relishes but, with her brother keen to sell everything off and pocket the money, Olivia knows she needs to step up and save the estate.
I don’t think the setting was properly capitalised in this book; there is definitely scope for more of the rugged mountains. Yet, the high life of a lady is a key theme of the book and I found it interesting how uncomfortable Olivia finds it. Instead of following the traditions of balls and being all very pretentious, she is more interested in rambling with her dog and spending time with her childhood friends. Except, interest from Owain sees Olivia challenge these feelings and question whether she can really shun her New York life and become a Lady of the Highlands?
I enjoyed seeing how this dilemma developed, as well as the mystery surrounding Brodie. I thought that Hobman addressed this issue very sensitively and I relished in how Brodie’s community comes together. Not only that, seeing Olivia change the future of the estate was very satisfying, and I even liked having the cheeky Christmas scenes at the end – completely unexpected!
Romance develops slowly in this book and I was never entirely sure how this would conclude. I liked how open-ended the writer leaves this until the closing chapters. Whilst I was certain Olivia would not be happy with her first choice, I was unsure whether Olivia would listen to her instinct and follow her true heart’s desires.
This was a great start to a new series and I am really interested to see what happens next to Olivia and her castle. I could never trust Kerr and will be keen to see if this is a character that has changed for the better – because I have my suspicions…
With thanks to Boldwood books and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I enjoyed the juxtaposition that is created between Olivia’s two worlds. On the one hand, she is pulled back to New York where she has established herself in a successful fashion house. Having lived here many years, it is like a second home to her and Olivia has very supportive friends around her, too. However, after the death of her mother she is forced to return home and become involved in running the estate – a very large estate. It’s not something she relishes but, with her brother keen to sell everything off and pocket the money, Olivia knows she needs to step up and save the estate.
I don’t think the setting was properly capitalised in this book; there is definitely scope for more of the rugged mountains. Yet, the high life of a lady is a key theme of the book and I found it interesting how uncomfortable Olivia finds it. Instead of following the traditions of balls and being all very pretentious, she is more interested in rambling with her dog and spending time with her childhood friends. Except, interest from Owain sees Olivia challenge these feelings and question whether she can really shun her New York life and become a Lady of the Highlands?
I enjoyed seeing how this dilemma developed, as well as the mystery surrounding Brodie. I thought that Hobman addressed this issue very sensitively and I relished in how Brodie’s community comes together. Not only that, seeing Olivia change the future of the estate was very satisfying, and I even liked having the cheeky Christmas scenes at the end – completely unexpected!
Romance develops slowly in this book and I was never entirely sure how this would conclude. I liked how open-ended the writer leaves this until the closing chapters. Whilst I was certain Olivia would not be happy with her first choice, I was unsure whether Olivia would listen to her instinct and follow her true heart’s desires.
This was a great start to a new series and I am really interested to see what happens next to Olivia and her castle. I could never trust Kerr and will be keen to see if this is a character that has changed for the better – because I have my suspicions…
With thanks to Boldwood books and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
April 8, 2023
I do seem to have read more than a few books set around castles in the Highlands recently – perhaps it’s a sign that I really do need to plan a long overdue visit next year. But this book opens in New York, where Olivia has built a highly successful career as a fashion designer, on the verge of becoming second-in-command to her mentor Nina Piccaro – until she receives an appallingly insensitive call from her brother Kerr with news of her beloved mother’s death, and travels home to Drumblair for the funeral and winding up of the estate. Her brother already has major changes planned – he doesn’t share her passion for their heritage, focused only on the money – and she’s resigned to the fact that it will all be frittered away. But things don’t quite turn out that way, her mother having made her own plans for the future – and Olivia finds herself with difficult choices to be made and a future that might look rather different from the one she’d expected.
One of the joys of this book is the friendships – Nina and Harper in New York, Skye and Bella in the Highlands, all particularly well-drawn characters. Uncle Innes proves to be a rock too, and I particularly liked housekeeper Mirren who shows her such tender care through the grief of her loss. The less said about brother Kerr the better – he really is quite appalling, and a constant thorn in her side. But then there’s Brodie – her childhood friend, their relationship mislaid in their teens when he became involved with a different crowd who made her life rather a misery, now back at Drumblair to help his father with the maintenance of the grounds after Kerr summarily dismissed the other staff. He’s gorgeous, but there’s little chance of him becoming a love interest – he’s now married, his wife at home in Edinburgh, and she’s not sure she’s entirely forgiven him for that youthful betrayal. But he’s a man with secrets – a difficult situation very sensitively handled, and a serious note amid the lightness of the story. Owain, laird-to-be, looks like a far more suitable prospect for romance – even if his parents’ enthusiasm for a match might be a touch off-putting – but he doesn’t really make her heart race, and might just have a few deeply hidden secrets of his own.
The book’s romance is beautifully handled, but there’s a lot more to the story – it’s difficult not to go into some of the twists and turns, but I really don’t want to spoil it for others. The author is an excellent storyteller, and has a lovely emotional touch – she really captures Olivia’s grief at her mother’s death, her worries and uncertainties when her future role becomes mapped out, and her joy when the pieces begin to fall into place. The detail is really lovely too – the well-drawn setting, the set pieces and occasions, the adorable dogs who thread through the story, the perfect musical accompaniment the author gives all her books. While there is a touch of darkness, and a few issues that need resolution, this was a relatively light and rather lovely read I’d very much recommend to others.
One of the joys of this book is the friendships – Nina and Harper in New York, Skye and Bella in the Highlands, all particularly well-drawn characters. Uncle Innes proves to be a rock too, and I particularly liked housekeeper Mirren who shows her such tender care through the grief of her loss. The less said about brother Kerr the better – he really is quite appalling, and a constant thorn in her side. But then there’s Brodie – her childhood friend, their relationship mislaid in their teens when he became involved with a different crowd who made her life rather a misery, now back at Drumblair to help his father with the maintenance of the grounds after Kerr summarily dismissed the other staff. He’s gorgeous, but there’s little chance of him becoming a love interest – he’s now married, his wife at home in Edinburgh, and she’s not sure she’s entirely forgiven him for that youthful betrayal. But he’s a man with secrets – a difficult situation very sensitively handled, and a serious note amid the lightness of the story. Owain, laird-to-be, looks like a far more suitable prospect for romance – even if his parents’ enthusiasm for a match might be a touch off-putting – but he doesn’t really make her heart race, and might just have a few deeply hidden secrets of his own.
The book’s romance is beautifully handled, but there’s a lot more to the story – it’s difficult not to go into some of the twists and turns, but I really don’t want to spoil it for others. The author is an excellent storyteller, and has a lovely emotional touch – she really captures Olivia’s grief at her mother’s death, her worries and uncertainties when her future role becomes mapped out, and her joy when the pieces begin to fall into place. The detail is really lovely too – the well-drawn setting, the set pieces and occasions, the adorable dogs who thread through the story, the perfect musical accompaniment the author gives all her books. While there is a touch of darkness, and a few issues that need resolution, this was a relatively light and rather lovely read I’d very much recommend to others.
July 24, 2023
Liv MacBain was born into the Scottish Clan MacBain and the 17th century ancestral home, Drumblair Castle, should pass to her brother. Liv always wanted to be a fashion designer and is living in New York working in the fashion industry when she gets word that her beloved mother has died. She heads home to Scotland, worried that her brother, Kerr, will sell Drumblair Castle to fund his lazy, money spending ways. When she finds out that Kerr has already let go a lot of the staff and is entertaining offers to sell, she is devastated, but her mother had one last trick up her sleeve. When the will is read, Liv has been left the castle with some conditions. Old friends, people who work at the castle and some family members, come to help her deal with all that is on her plate while she sorts out what she is going to do.
Coming Home to the Highlands is a story about family and duty. There are also a couple of romances to lighten it up, and I enjoyed the friends to lovers trope. Liv was a woman that wanted to make her own way in the world, but she also had that family loyalty and duty that she couldn't turn her back on. She was determined to do both and with some help, she could. I didn't like her brother, Kerr very much at all. He was a wastral and was only out for himself and what he could take from others and the situation. Of course, he was allowed to live this way so I'm not sure who to blame. Liv meets up with an old friend, Brodie, one that used to tease her incessantly growing up, but as he grew up, he changed and gentled. He is also married, but why is he living with his father in the Highlands? He has some secrets and it comes out that he is involved in a serious issue in his relationship that was handled very well by the author. The secondary characters are also well drawn and wonderful, from quirky Uncle Innis to Mirren the head housekeeper. Overall, this was an excellent story that I really enjoyed and recommend. The narration of the audiobook was performed by Eilidh Beaton. She did a wonderful job and captured the narrator's voice exactly as I had imagined it. She also did a great job with the male characters and once I got used to her accent, I was able to listen to the book at my normal 1.5 speed. I definitely recommend this delightful summery story of family, friendship, loyaly, duty and romance.
Coming Home to the Highlands is a story about family and duty. There are also a couple of romances to lighten it up, and I enjoyed the friends to lovers trope. Liv was a woman that wanted to make her own way in the world, but she also had that family loyalty and duty that she couldn't turn her back on. She was determined to do both and with some help, she could. I didn't like her brother, Kerr very much at all. He was a wastral and was only out for himself and what he could take from others and the situation. Of course, he was allowed to live this way so I'm not sure who to blame. Liv meets up with an old friend, Brodie, one that used to tease her incessantly growing up, but as he grew up, he changed and gentled. He is also married, but why is he living with his father in the Highlands? He has some secrets and it comes out that he is involved in a serious issue in his relationship that was handled very well by the author. The secondary characters are also well drawn and wonderful, from quirky Uncle Innis to Mirren the head housekeeper. Overall, this was an excellent story that I really enjoyed and recommend. The narration of the audiobook was performed by Eilidh Beaton. She did a wonderful job and captured the narrator's voice exactly as I had imagined it. She also did a great job with the male characters and once I got used to her accent, I was able to listen to the book at my normal 1.5 speed. I definitely recommend this delightful summery story of family, friendship, loyaly, duty and romance.
May 12, 2025
A charming romance. New York fashion designer returns home for her mother’s funeral to discover she has been left the family castle and estate over her older brother who has been bailed out by the mother too many times to ensure the family home will remain solvent. She runs into her childhood friend, who treated her horribly when he was a teenager and discovers she still Carrie’s her childhood crush for him, but alas he is married. She has plans to open the castle to the public and returns to NYC whilst probate happens back home. On her return it is full speed ahead on the plans. Ensuing romance and violence result in a happy ending as expected. An enjoyable read.
April 3, 2023
So, I didn’t really like this as much as I thought I would, I loved it even more than I anticipated I would ! The author’s writing style is fabulous, just like the story it’s funny and light-hearted. I love the fact Liv is living her dream before she comes home to where she is actually living my dream (although I love NYC I don’t think I could live there) how can you beat the community that Lisa writes in her books.
I found the relationship with her brother interesting, with them being at each other’s all the time, having two brothers myself and knowing how we are at times, I can see this being realistic, although I don’t think I’ve ever been as angry as these, although the resolution was a little swift for my liking, to be fair in reality, my brothers I know will often sort things quickly and move on, they tend to not react like me , so yeah it’s realistic . Sometimes get what they deserve, other times not, but no spoilers.
I love Scotland so much, so I can 100 % confirm the descriptions are perfect, just like being there yourself, Lisa’s writing makes me want to book a hotel and train and go right back again, to be honest if working and needing pay wasn’t an issue I’d move up there tomorrow and never leave. Even more so if I could go live in the community Liv gets to be in, it’s just my idea of heaven. So if like me you need an escape to your own personal heaven from time to time, you can’t go wrong reading this or any of Lisa’s books, they are full of joy, love, hope and yes sadness at points, but you will be left happier by the end.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I found the relationship with her brother interesting, with them being at each other’s all the time, having two brothers myself and knowing how we are at times, I can see this being realistic, although I don’t think I’ve ever been as angry as these, although the resolution was a little swift for my liking, to be fair in reality, my brothers I know will often sort things quickly and move on, they tend to not react like me , so yeah it’s realistic . Sometimes get what they deserve, other times not, but no spoilers.
I love Scotland so much, so I can 100 % confirm the descriptions are perfect, just like being there yourself, Lisa’s writing makes me want to book a hotel and train and go right back again, to be honest if working and needing pay wasn’t an issue I’d move up there tomorrow and never leave. Even more so if I could go live in the community Liv gets to be in, it’s just my idea of heaven. So if like me you need an escape to your own personal heaven from time to time, you can’t go wrong reading this or any of Lisa’s books, they are full of joy, love, hope and yes sadness at points, but you will be left happier by the end.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 24, 2024
Not terrible, but very predictable. Also the author doesn't seem to know how the aristocracy (and inheritance of titles) works.
And I cannot believe that a castle such as the one described in the book isn't listed. There is no way Kerr's original plan would have been approved.
It's annoying things like that that suck the fun out of this kind of story for me.
And I cannot believe that a castle such as the one described in the book isn't listed. There is no way Kerr's original plan would have been approved.
It's annoying things like that that suck the fun out of this kind of story for me.
Read
June 12, 2025DNF. I couldn’t get past the negging tbh.
April 8, 2023
I loved "visiting" the places familiar to me with Olivia.
I despised her brother Kerr and felt he mostly got what he deserved (no spoilers) .
I really liked Owain, but like Olivia I too missed chemistry between them, but I'm glad they had their 'thing'
I love that she managed to hang on to her lifelong dream, maybe not how she initially thought but that's the surprising beauty of life.
I loved her found family and how supportive they are and how Brodie and Olivia put their strengths together and created something to carry them into the future.
Once again I thoroughly enjoyed a Lisa Hobman book and always look forward to any future books.
There are some trigger warnings in this book, so check those before reading it.
I despised her brother Kerr and felt he mostly got what he deserved (no spoilers) .
I really liked Owain, but like Olivia I too missed chemistry between them, but I'm glad they had their 'thing'
I love that she managed to hang on to her lifelong dream, maybe not how she initially thought but that's the surprising beauty of life.
I loved her found family and how supportive they are and how Brodie and Olivia put their strengths together and created something to carry them into the future.
Once again I thoroughly enjoyed a Lisa Hobman book and always look forward to any future books.
There are some trigger warnings in this book, so check those before reading it.
March 29, 2023
A really sweet and entertaining read. With all the glam of New York and achieving amazing career success in a fashion house, Olivia is torn by her duties and love of her homeland in Scotland, at a very impressive castle no less.
Split between the two worlds, this story (and Olivia) takes on the juggle of figuring out where head and heart really lie
I truly loved the characters, especially the dogs Wilf and Marley, the authors own notes regarding this choice of dogs had my heart from the very start.
Split between the two worlds, this story (and Olivia) takes on the juggle of figuring out where head and heart really lie
I truly loved the characters, especially the dogs Wilf and Marley, the authors own notes regarding this choice of dogs had my heart from the very start.
February 23, 2023
Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC. Below are my honest thoughts on this book.
Olivia left her home in the Scottish highlands to pursue a career in fashion design in NYC. Following the passing of her mother she is summoned back to the Highlands where she learns that she has inherited her family’s ancestral seat. This causes animosity between Olivia and her brother Kerr as he was the rightful heir to the estate. As per her mother’s wishes Olivia must spend 2 years working to improve the Drumblair Castle, then she may return to her life in NYC.
I wanted to love this book, I really did. There was so much potential for the idea. I had a couple of issues with the book. First, the main character Olivia is constantly gaslighting herself for how she feels and is always invalidating her own emotions. Olivia is never willing to go after what she wants, and constantly allows the people in her life to bully her into situations she doesn’t want to be in (such as becoming engaged to a man she just reconnected with and has no chemistry with, despite saying over and over again how she’s only willing to marry for love).
Second, the conclusion felt extremely rushed. For more than the first half of the book, there is anger, resentment and animosity between Olivia and her brother Kerr, only for it to be resolved in under a page of interaction. The resolution between Olivia and Kerr felt incomplete and forced. As well with Olivia and Brodie (the love interest) coming together, it was a slow burn for most of the book and it would have been nice to see a little bit more of them as a couple.
TW: this book contains mentions of domestic violence
Olivia left her home in the Scottish highlands to pursue a career in fashion design in NYC. Following the passing of her mother she is summoned back to the Highlands where she learns that she has inherited her family’s ancestral seat. This causes animosity between Olivia and her brother Kerr as he was the rightful heir to the estate. As per her mother’s wishes Olivia must spend 2 years working to improve the Drumblair Castle, then she may return to her life in NYC.
I wanted to love this book, I really did. There was so much potential for the idea. I had a couple of issues with the book. First, the main character Olivia is constantly gaslighting herself for how she feels and is always invalidating her own emotions. Olivia is never willing to go after what she wants, and constantly allows the people in her life to bully her into situations she doesn’t want to be in (such as becoming engaged to a man she just reconnected with and has no chemistry with, despite saying over and over again how she’s only willing to marry for love).
Second, the conclusion felt extremely rushed. For more than the first half of the book, there is anger, resentment and animosity between Olivia and her brother Kerr, only for it to be resolved in under a page of interaction. The resolution between Olivia and Kerr felt incomplete and forced. As well with Olivia and Brodie (the love interest) coming together, it was a slow burn for most of the book and it would have been nice to see a little bit more of them as a couple.
TW: this book contains mentions of domestic violence
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 25, 2024
I thought this story had potential. It might have if not for a couple of things. First, the author repeatedly used an offensive four-letter word. It was so unnecessary, it was offensive and added absolutely nothing to the story. Second was the talk about sex. Fortunately there were no explicit scenes but, once again, the repeated talk about it was not something I wanted to read about. I finished the book but will not read anything else by this author.
March 6, 2023
Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood for the advanced copy of this title in return for an honest review and spot on the book tour.
I only came across Lisa Hobman's books in 2021, and since then I have rad 5 of hers (including this one). Very quickly she's become a go-to author for fun, light-hearted, joyful stories.
There's a number of interesting characters but there's a few that stood out for me:
Olivia - our main protagonist, she wants to please everyone, feels a bit timid when out of her comfort zone. She is happy with how her life is and she doesn't necessarily want to rock the boat. I really liked her but would have liked for her be more confident in herself.
Kerr - Olivia's brother. A despicable character, even if he did try to worm his way into my good books as it went along, he never succeeded.
Brodie - A childhood friend of Olivia, they parted on bad terms as teenagers. He is a gorgeous sounding man, in looks and personality. He is a wonderful partner to work off for Olivia.
And then you have the characters like Mirren who almost feels like a motherly character for Olivia, and Innes, Olivia's uncle, stepping into that fatherly role. Brodie's dad Dougie even crops up, and he's a wonderful addition, and of course, Marley, the very cute family dog.
***SLIGHT CHARACTER SPOILER COMING UP***
The only criticism I have is regarding Olivia and Kerr's relationship. For 3/4 of the book, they're at each other's throats, he's a vile man and she's got no trust in him. And then, all of a sudden, he's changed his ways and this sibling relationship comes out of nowhere. So I'd have liked to have seen that stretched out more, as it didn't feel that believable for me.
***SPOILER OVER***
As for someone who, whilst not a follower of fashion, does take an interest in it and designs her own clothes on a semi-regularly basis, I was really interested in the plot point following Olivia's design career. It made a sometimes out-of-reach job feel more 'normal'.
I'm a sucker for books set in Scotland as I adore it there. Throw in a castle, a cute man and a cute dog, and it's the perfect recipe. Although none of my trips to Scotland have ever ended with a cute man and dog in a castle. Where am I going wrong?
It doesn't shy away from difficult topics. Yes it's overwhelmingly joyful, but it covers loss and grief, family rivalries, relationship troubles, abuse, violence. It's not all wrapped in cotton wool. It shows that normal life is fraught with difficulty.
It's what I've come to expect from her books. They're easy reads (I read this in less than a day), not too long, but long enough to get everything out of it you want, they're joyful and hopeful and full of love. Some may say a bit predictable but I'd say that's a good thing. With the so-called happily-ever-after books, you know pretty well how things will end up, but it's the journey that's the joy to read. How do our characters get to that ending? And you know you'll be entertained every step of the way.
It is the perfect cosy read for a warm spring evening.
It does end nicely (no spoilers) but there's definitely room for more, so I'm hoping this is only the start of a new series for Lisa as I have a lot of questions as to what happens next. I feel there's more she can give us in this vein so I'm holding out hope.
I only came across Lisa Hobman's books in 2021, and since then I have rad 5 of hers (including this one). Very quickly she's become a go-to author for fun, light-hearted, joyful stories.
There's a number of interesting characters but there's a few that stood out for me:
Olivia - our main protagonist, she wants to please everyone, feels a bit timid when out of her comfort zone. She is happy with how her life is and she doesn't necessarily want to rock the boat. I really liked her but would have liked for her be more confident in herself.
Kerr - Olivia's brother. A despicable character, even if he did try to worm his way into my good books as it went along, he never succeeded.
Brodie - A childhood friend of Olivia, they parted on bad terms as teenagers. He is a gorgeous sounding man, in looks and personality. He is a wonderful partner to work off for Olivia.
And then you have the characters like Mirren who almost feels like a motherly character for Olivia, and Innes, Olivia's uncle, stepping into that fatherly role. Brodie's dad Dougie even crops up, and he's a wonderful addition, and of course, Marley, the very cute family dog.
***SLIGHT CHARACTER SPOILER COMING UP***
The only criticism I have is regarding Olivia and Kerr's relationship. For 3/4 of the book, they're at each other's throats, he's a vile man and she's got no trust in him. And then, all of a sudden, he's changed his ways and this sibling relationship comes out of nowhere. So I'd have liked to have seen that stretched out more, as it didn't feel that believable for me.
***SPOILER OVER***
As for someone who, whilst not a follower of fashion, does take an interest in it and designs her own clothes on a semi-regularly basis, I was really interested in the plot point following Olivia's design career. It made a sometimes out-of-reach job feel more 'normal'.
I'm a sucker for books set in Scotland as I adore it there. Throw in a castle, a cute man and a cute dog, and it's the perfect recipe. Although none of my trips to Scotland have ever ended with a cute man and dog in a castle. Where am I going wrong?
It doesn't shy away from difficult topics. Yes it's overwhelmingly joyful, but it covers loss and grief, family rivalries, relationship troubles, abuse, violence. It's not all wrapped in cotton wool. It shows that normal life is fraught with difficulty.
It's what I've come to expect from her books. They're easy reads (I read this in less than a day), not too long, but long enough to get everything out of it you want, they're joyful and hopeful and full of love. Some may say a bit predictable but I'd say that's a good thing. With the so-called happily-ever-after books, you know pretty well how things will end up, but it's the journey that's the joy to read. How do our characters get to that ending? And you know you'll be entertained every step of the way.
It is the perfect cosy read for a warm spring evening.
It does end nicely (no spoilers) but there's definitely room for more, so I'm hoping this is only the start of a new series for Lisa as I have a lot of questions as to what happens next. I feel there's more she can give us in this vein so I'm holding out hope.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 9, 2023
Olivia MacBain, 28, has a great job as a designer working for huge fashion designer, Nina Picarro, in New York. This has long been Olivia’s dream and she is thrilled with her job and her wonderful boss. Even her best friend and roommate, Harper, works as a fashion photographer for Nina as well.
At the end of a successful fashion show, Olivia gets a call from her brother, Kerr, informing her that their mother has died. She lost her father some years ago. Olivia’s family lives in Scotland and are the owners of their family home, Drumblair Castle. Her father was Laird Gregor MacBain and her mother was Lady Freya MacBain. The family’s castle is huge and elegant and has been in the MacBain family for many generations.
Grief-stricken, Olivia heads to Scotland for her mother’s funeral. There, she is faced with her spoiled, selfish, arrogant, and down-right nasty older brother, Kerr. He pretends to cry but she knows it’s all for show. He lives in a 10-bedroom family villa not far from the castle. He drinks too much and gambles away lots of money. Olivia and her mother both have had to bail him out all of his life. He just wants all this funeral business over with as he knows he is the heir and he plans on selling off the castle and surrounding property. Olivia is appalled at this. But at the reading of her mother’s will, there are some shocking things revealed that totally changes the future.
At the funeral, she encounters a childhood foe, Brodie, who used to taunt her and now works as a gardener at the castle. Seeing him again opens all kinds of emotions inside Olivia. She hopes they can become friends and put aside their animosity from their younger years.
Faced with a dilemma after the reading of the will, Olivia has some big decisions to make and with the help of her friends, she heads down a new path in life.
I really liked this book and found Olivia to be a strong woman. I pegged Brodie’s problem right away and am glad it was addressed in this story. All very good characters and a terrific plot. I look forward to reading more by this author.
Copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
At the end of a successful fashion show, Olivia gets a call from her brother, Kerr, informing her that their mother has died. She lost her father some years ago. Olivia’s family lives in Scotland and are the owners of their family home, Drumblair Castle. Her father was Laird Gregor MacBain and her mother was Lady Freya MacBain. The family’s castle is huge and elegant and has been in the MacBain family for many generations.
Grief-stricken, Olivia heads to Scotland for her mother’s funeral. There, she is faced with her spoiled, selfish, arrogant, and down-right nasty older brother, Kerr. He pretends to cry but she knows it’s all for show. He lives in a 10-bedroom family villa not far from the castle. He drinks too much and gambles away lots of money. Olivia and her mother both have had to bail him out all of his life. He just wants all this funeral business over with as he knows he is the heir and he plans on selling off the castle and surrounding property. Olivia is appalled at this. But at the reading of her mother’s will, there are some shocking things revealed that totally changes the future.
At the funeral, she encounters a childhood foe, Brodie, who used to taunt her and now works as a gardener at the castle. Seeing him again opens all kinds of emotions inside Olivia. She hopes they can become friends and put aside their animosity from their younger years.
Faced with a dilemma after the reading of the will, Olivia has some big decisions to make and with the help of her friends, she heads down a new path in life.
I really liked this book and found Olivia to be a strong woman. I pegged Brodie’s problem right away and am glad it was addressed in this story. All very good characters and a terrific plot. I look forward to reading more by this author.
Copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
April 6, 2023
I've read other books by Lisa Hobman and enjoyed them so I was looking forward to this one. The premise is intriguing and who doesn't love a Scottish castle, right? Unfortunately, this one fell a little short of my expectations. That's not to say I didn't like it. I did. But I really wanted to love it.
The setting of the book is wonderful. Hobman really brings Liv's family's castle to life. I could easily envision both the castle and the grounds as I was reading. The characters are also brought to life, some very appealing and others not so much. The author gives several of them interesting layers, complex life issues, and secrets. In fact, she uses them to introduce some very weighty and relatable topics, begging to be explored more fully, and with one character, an issue that isn't talked about enough (in my opinion).
The biggest fly in the ointment for me was Liv's brother, Kerr. He's a self-centered, entitled, egomaniacal jerk who treats his sister with careless disregard at his best and outright cruelty at his worst. This goes on for the vast majority of the book until there's an inexplicable change - an abrupt, unexpected change of course that I didn't buy for a moment. It felt contrived and unrealistic and didn't leave me with the feel-good moment I'm pretty sure the author was hoping for.
I liked Liv. My heart ached for her - for the grief that was breaking her heart, the tug of war between her loyalty to family and her passion for her career. I loved her relationships with her childhood pals in Scotland, her roommate in NYC, her mother's dog, and her boss. Everyone should be lucky enough to have a boss like Liv's. I was cheering for her to find her happy ending even while shaking my head at the choices she made in direct opposition to what she had always adamantly said she wanted. And for an intelligent woman, how did she not clue in to what was so glaringly obvious?
The book ends on a high note with a happy ending for more than one couple. But I still don't trust Liv's brother.
*ARC received for fair and unbiased review
The setting of the book is wonderful. Hobman really brings Liv's family's castle to life. I could easily envision both the castle and the grounds as I was reading. The characters are also brought to life, some very appealing and others not so much. The author gives several of them interesting layers, complex life issues, and secrets. In fact, she uses them to introduce some very weighty and relatable topics, begging to be explored more fully, and with one character, an issue that isn't talked about enough (in my opinion).
The biggest fly in the ointment for me was Liv's brother, Kerr. He's a self-centered, entitled, egomaniacal jerk who treats his sister with careless disregard at his best and outright cruelty at his worst. This goes on for the vast majority of the book until there's an inexplicable change - an abrupt, unexpected change of course that I didn't buy for a moment. It felt contrived and unrealistic and didn't leave me with the feel-good moment I'm pretty sure the author was hoping for.
I liked Liv. My heart ached for her - for the grief that was breaking her heart, the tug of war between her loyalty to family and her passion for her career. I loved her relationships with her childhood pals in Scotland, her roommate in NYC, her mother's dog, and her boss. Everyone should be lucky enough to have a boss like Liv's. I was cheering for her to find her happy ending even while shaking my head at the choices she made in direct opposition to what she had always adamantly said she wanted. And for an intelligent woman, how did she not clue in to what was so glaringly obvious?
The book ends on a high note with a happy ending for more than one couple. But I still don't trust Liv's brother.
*ARC received for fair and unbiased review
April 2, 2023
Born into the Scottish McBain clan and ancestral home of the 6th century, Olivia MacBain has always dreamed of leaving the farm she grew up on to pursue a career in fashion. And thanks to her older brother, Kerr, Liv is given the chance to spread her wings.
Liv is 28 years old and works in a luxury fashion house and lives in a prestigious flat in NY. Everything in her life seems to be going swimmingly. At least until she receives a devastating phone call from her brother inviting her to return to Scotland with some urgency. Liv is forced to make an important decision that could change her plans for the future forever.
No. I am so sorry but I was not able to fully enjoy this book as much as I would have liked.
The problem is not the author's writing style because, for goodness sake, she is fabulous: light-hearted, funny and very smooth. But for the relationship between the brothers.
For a good 3/4 of the book (if not more) the two of them are at each other's throats, hating each other with every fibre of their being. Then, suddenly, everything settles down and the fractured brotherly bond is 'magically' repaired. I don't know. To me, this 'resolution of the problem' seemed exaggeratedly rushed, even forced at times.
Apart from this small detail, I enjoyed the reading for both the setting and the characterisation of some of the characters.
I have never been to Scotland but the details about the place and the various settings allowed me to imagine this beautiful place, so much so that it made me want to take the first available flight and move there instantly.
3⭐/5
I thank author Lisa Hobmann, Netgalley and Boldwood for sending me the ARC copy of this volume in exchange for an honest review. All considerations are mine and mine alone.
Liv is 28 years old and works in a luxury fashion house and lives in a prestigious flat in NY. Everything in her life seems to be going swimmingly. At least until she receives a devastating phone call from her brother inviting her to return to Scotland with some urgency. Liv is forced to make an important decision that could change her plans for the future forever.
No. I am so sorry but I was not able to fully enjoy this book as much as I would have liked.
The problem is not the author's writing style because, for goodness sake, she is fabulous: light-hearted, funny and very smooth. But for the relationship between the brothers.
For a good 3/4 of the book (if not more) the two of them are at each other's throats, hating each other with every fibre of their being. Then, suddenly, everything settles down and the fractured brotherly bond is 'magically' repaired. I don't know. To me, this 'resolution of the problem' seemed exaggeratedly rushed, even forced at times.
Apart from this small detail, I enjoyed the reading for both the setting and the characterisation of some of the characters.
I have never been to Scotland but the details about the place and the various settings allowed me to imagine this beautiful place, so much so that it made me want to take the first available flight and move there instantly.
3⭐/5
I thank author Lisa Hobmann, Netgalley and Boldwood for sending me the ARC copy of this volume in exchange for an honest review. All considerations are mine and mine alone.
April 2, 2023
There was a definite feeling of fairytale to this book and I absolutely loved it. Liv is a perfect protagonist, and her back story was beautifully crafted against a backdrop of a silver-spoon upbringing and the world of high fashion. She is definitely living what is often referred to as ‘her best life’. She doesn’t have the worries associated with her ancestral home as that will fall into the hands of her brother, Kerr. Of course, Kerr has plans to sell the family home to the highest bidder and have it all transformed into a hotel and spa. Thankfully, Liv won’t be in Scotland to witness this.
A fateful phone call brings Liv’s world crashing down and she dashes back to Scotland to discover just how much her world is about to change.
As usual, I will avoid spoilers, but I can promise that this is a wonderful story filled with the joy of friendships and new beginnings. Lisa Hobman implicitly understands the power of friendship and that is evident in each of her books. From Liv’s transatlantic connections to those from her childhood, she has a wonderful network to support her as she transitions to a new normal.
My favourites were the relationships with the staff at her ancestral home. In particular, the housekeeper and the gardener were standout characters; not forgetting the gardener’s son. With their unfailing support, she is able to deal with her new responsibilities, navigate her way through her brother’s awful behaviour, and see a future that she never imagined.
Lisa Hobman has done it again! I loved my escape to Drumblair Castle, and I’m delighted to have been invited.
A fateful phone call brings Liv’s world crashing down and she dashes back to Scotland to discover just how much her world is about to change.
As usual, I will avoid spoilers, but I can promise that this is a wonderful story filled with the joy of friendships and new beginnings. Lisa Hobman implicitly understands the power of friendship and that is evident in each of her books. From Liv’s transatlantic connections to those from her childhood, she has a wonderful network to support her as she transitions to a new normal.
My favourites were the relationships with the staff at her ancestral home. In particular, the housekeeper and the gardener were standout characters; not forgetting the gardener’s son. With their unfailing support, she is able to deal with her new responsibilities, navigate her way through her brother’s awful behaviour, and see a future that she never imagined.
Lisa Hobman has done it again! I loved my escape to Drumblair Castle, and I’m delighted to have been invited.
April 5, 2023
The one thing Olivia McBain had wanted to do since she was a child was to be involved in the world of fashion. At twenty eight years old she was living her dream. She was working in New York at the House of world famous designer Nina Picarro, and witnessing her own designs brought to life and paraded on the catwalk.
Olivia and her brother, Kerr, were born into a noble Scottish clan, and Olivia’s parents had indulged her in her choice of career believing it would be short term. For her part, Olivia had no interest in Scotland’s high society or dealing with all the maintenance needed for Drumblair Castle. In any case, Kerr was the eldest and next in line to inherit the castle and all that went with it.
A devastating phone call from her brother brings Olivia rushing back to Scotland and changes her life in ways she had never imagined.
I liked Olivia but she did annoy me slightly when she kept second guessing herself and, despite the fact she was adamant she’d only marry for love, seemed content to settle for the easy option. On the whole there was a lovely cast of characters, particularly Mirren, Dougie and Innes, and of course Brodie, Olivia’s childhood friend until they fell out. Kerr was horrible and I did think the relationship between him and Olivia was a little too easily resolved after his attitude and the way he behaved.
Having said that, Coming Home to the Highlands is a charming and enjoyable read, the setting is wonderful and described vividly and dogs are always a winner for me. Difficult and pertinent topics such as violence, relationships, grief and abuse are dealt with sensitively.
Olivia and her brother, Kerr, were born into a noble Scottish clan, and Olivia’s parents had indulged her in her choice of career believing it would be short term. For her part, Olivia had no interest in Scotland’s high society or dealing with all the maintenance needed for Drumblair Castle. In any case, Kerr was the eldest and next in line to inherit the castle and all that went with it.
A devastating phone call from her brother brings Olivia rushing back to Scotland and changes her life in ways she had never imagined.
I liked Olivia but she did annoy me slightly when she kept second guessing herself and, despite the fact she was adamant she’d only marry for love, seemed content to settle for the easy option. On the whole there was a lovely cast of characters, particularly Mirren, Dougie and Innes, and of course Brodie, Olivia’s childhood friend until they fell out. Kerr was horrible and I did think the relationship between him and Olivia was a little too easily resolved after his attitude and the way he behaved.
Having said that, Coming Home to the Highlands is a charming and enjoyable read, the setting is wonderful and described vividly and dogs are always a winner for me. Difficult and pertinent topics such as violence, relationships, grief and abuse are dealt with sensitively.
July 25, 2023
Coming Home to the Highlands by Lisa Hobman
I received an advance review copy for free thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Blurb
Sometimes life is full of surprises, especially when you least expect them…
Born into the Scottish Clan MacBain and the 17th century ancestral home, Drumblair Castle, Liv MacBain has always dreamt of leaving the ancient homestead and becoming her own person in the world of fashion.
From a young age, she worshipped the trailblazing designs of the haute couture glitterati, hoping one day to join them.
With older brother Kerr, the rightful heir, Liv has been free to spread her wings.
Fast forward. Liv, is now 28 years old, working at a high-end fashion house and living her dream life in New York. She’s never been happier.
Until everything changes with one devastating phone call from her brother, Kerr, that brings her rushing back to Scotland.
Old friends and adversaries resurface and Liv faces a difficult decision that could mean her dream future can no longer be a reality.
Or can you have your castle and your career?
My Opinion
This was an enjoyable, quick read. Olivia has been working in New York when she receives a phone call with some terrible news, will this change her plans for her future? Faced with a dilemma, Olivia has a big choice to make. I have read a few books by Lisa Hobman now, and this was just what I have come to expect.
Rating 4/5
I received an advance review copy for free thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Blurb
Sometimes life is full of surprises, especially when you least expect them…
Born into the Scottish Clan MacBain and the 17th century ancestral home, Drumblair Castle, Liv MacBain has always dreamt of leaving the ancient homestead and becoming her own person in the world of fashion.
From a young age, she worshipped the trailblazing designs of the haute couture glitterati, hoping one day to join them.
With older brother Kerr, the rightful heir, Liv has been free to spread her wings.
Fast forward. Liv, is now 28 years old, working at a high-end fashion house and living her dream life in New York. She’s never been happier.
Until everything changes with one devastating phone call from her brother, Kerr, that brings her rushing back to Scotland.
Old friends and adversaries resurface and Liv faces a difficult decision that could mean her dream future can no longer be a reality.
Or can you have your castle and your career?
My Opinion
This was an enjoyable, quick read. Olivia has been working in New York when she receives a phone call with some terrible news, will this change her plans for her future? Faced with a dilemma, Olivia has a big choice to make. I have read a few books by Lisa Hobman now, and this was just what I have come to expect.
Rating 4/5
May 2, 2023
I wanted to read this book because of my recent visit to Scotland. I am always a fan of homecoming stories, and the setting intrigued me. Although I liked the author's writing, this particular book was not for me.
I read a lot of romance stories and family-based narratives in any given year. This basically means I know what I like, and the familial complexities in this were not ones I was interested in.
Theoretically, I should have worked. Liv MacBain has an interesting job, reasonable work times and an encouraging boss. Usually, one of these is always an issue. She is forced to go back to her childhood home when she finds out about her mother's death and her unexpected inheritance.
There is the sibling rivalry which continues for most of the book and suddenly vanishes!
It is well written, and I am still perplexed why I did not enjoy it. I almost gave up half way but stuck it out solely because the writing made me hope that I would warm to it. It is one of those rare occasions where I cannot put my finger on why I reacted the way I did (even vaguely), and I still recommend this to fans of this genre. Given its current ratings online, I am sure most others who pick this up will love it.
I received an ARC thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, but the review is entirely based on my own reading experience.
I read a lot of romance stories and family-based narratives in any given year. This basically means I know what I like, and the familial complexities in this were not ones I was interested in.
Theoretically, I should have worked. Liv MacBain has an interesting job, reasonable work times and an encouraging boss. Usually, one of these is always an issue. She is forced to go back to her childhood home when she finds out about her mother's death and her unexpected inheritance.
There is the sibling rivalry which continues for most of the book and suddenly vanishes!
It is well written, and I am still perplexed why I did not enjoy it. I almost gave up half way but stuck it out solely because the writing made me hope that I would warm to it. It is one of those rare occasions where I cannot put my finger on why I reacted the way I did (even vaguely), and I still recommend this to fans of this genre. Given its current ratings online, I am sure most others who pick this up will love it.
I received an ARC thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, but the review is entirely based on my own reading experience.
March 20, 2024
I have read a few books by the author Lisa Hobman and have really enjoyed them, so when I saw the cover of this I thought it might be a book I would enjoy. Also on reading the synopsis and seeing it took place in the Scottish highlands and in a castle I knew it would be right up my street. I have a thing for all things Celtic.
We start this book in New York where successful fashion designer Liv, is working at a high-end fashion house and living her dream life in New York. She’s never been happier and is just on the cusp of becoming first assistant her mentor Nina Piccaro. It is everything she has ever wanted. That is until she receives a devsetating phone call from her brother, Kerr informing her that their Mum has passed away. Rushing to Scotland to be with her brother and family Liv life feels like it has imploded around her. Kerr is rather unsympathetic and has very big ideas of how he is going to make money from their ancestral home Drumblair Castle, but their Mum has other ideas and has left the responsibility to Olivia.
Lisa has a way of writing that makes me feel as if I am part of the story. I really enjoyed this book. It deal with family secrets, loyalties, friendships and people trying to do it all whilst living their dreams. There is a also a friends to lovers angle which made the book really enjoyable.
We start this book in New York where successful fashion designer Liv, is working at a high-end fashion house and living her dream life in New York. She’s never been happier and is just on the cusp of becoming first assistant her mentor Nina Piccaro. It is everything she has ever wanted. That is until she receives a devsetating phone call from her brother, Kerr informing her that their Mum has passed away. Rushing to Scotland to be with her brother and family Liv life feels like it has imploded around her. Kerr is rather unsympathetic and has very big ideas of how he is going to make money from their ancestral home Drumblair Castle, but their Mum has other ideas and has left the responsibility to Olivia.
Lisa has a way of writing that makes me feel as if I am part of the story. I really enjoyed this book. It deal with family secrets, loyalties, friendships and people trying to do it all whilst living their dreams. There is a also a friends to lovers angle which made the book really enjoyable.
April 10, 2023
I would like to thank Rachel’s Random Resources, Boldwood Books, Netgalley and Lisa Hobman for the E ARC of this book.
I was so pleased to be chosen for the Blog Tour of this book, which is published on the 4th of April 2023.
We meet Liv McBain, she was brought up in her ancestral home Drumblair Castle, which she swapped for an apartment share in New York where she is a fashion designer. She loves her job and is really happy.
She has an older brother Kerr, who is conceited, and thinks the world owes him as he is going to be the next Laird. I have to say I didn’t not like him as a character, but I don’t think you were supposed to.
Liv’s life is turned upside down when Kerr phones her one night with devastating news that has Liv coming back to Scotland quickly. Her life is never going to be the same again and she has some very hard decisions to make. Can friends old and new help her and will she be happy?
I really enjoyed the setting and the characters. Liv was such an engaging character and you wanted her to succeed. She wants to help people and does all she can to do so. I also liked that she didn’t give up on her own dreams. This was an enjoyable read and my 1st by this author but won’t be my last, would recommend it.
I was so pleased to be chosen for the Blog Tour of this book, which is published on the 4th of April 2023.
We meet Liv McBain, she was brought up in her ancestral home Drumblair Castle, which she swapped for an apartment share in New York where she is a fashion designer. She loves her job and is really happy.
She has an older brother Kerr, who is conceited, and thinks the world owes him as he is going to be the next Laird. I have to say I didn’t not like him as a character, but I don’t think you were supposed to.
Liv’s life is turned upside down when Kerr phones her one night with devastating news that has Liv coming back to Scotland quickly. Her life is never going to be the same again and she has some very hard decisions to make. Can friends old and new help her and will she be happy?
I really enjoyed the setting and the characters. Liv was such an engaging character and you wanted her to succeed. She wants to help people and does all she can to do so. I also liked that she didn’t give up on her own dreams. This was an enjoyable read and my 1st by this author but won’t be my last, would recommend it.
April 4, 2023
A story full of surprises - and romances,
With changes galore and different chances.
Drumblair Castle is the ancestral home of MacBain Clan
And in her will Olivia and Kerr's mum has a shocking plan!
Fashion designer, Olivia, is following her dreams
Working in New York, successfully it seems.
Then the call from Kerr tells her their Mum had died
So home she quickly flies.
Meeting old friends, reconnecting with others, too,
Olivia is faced with challenging things to do.
Will this be the start of a new dream
Or the end to them now it could mean.
Childhood memories and teenage angst,
New romances and second chances
Obstacles, problems, adversaries and more
Along with new possibilities are there to explore.
A heartwarming read full of twists and turns
As the truth between others she slowly learns.
Engagements, weddings, new beginnings, too,
But read it for yourself to see with just who!
A story I thoroughly enjoyed right from the start,
As Olivia decides just how to follow her heart!
For my complementary copy, say thank you,
As I share with you this, my honest review
With changes galore and different chances.
Drumblair Castle is the ancestral home of MacBain Clan
And in her will Olivia and Kerr's mum has a shocking plan!
Fashion designer, Olivia, is following her dreams
Working in New York, successfully it seems.
Then the call from Kerr tells her their Mum had died
So home she quickly flies.
Meeting old friends, reconnecting with others, too,
Olivia is faced with challenging things to do.
Will this be the start of a new dream
Or the end to them now it could mean.
Childhood memories and teenage angst,
New romances and second chances
Obstacles, problems, adversaries and more
Along with new possibilities are there to explore.
A heartwarming read full of twists and turns
As the truth between others she slowly learns.
Engagements, weddings, new beginnings, too,
But read it for yourself to see with just who!
A story I thoroughly enjoyed right from the start,
As Olivia decides just how to follow her heart!
For my complementary copy, say thank you,
As I share with you this, my honest review
October 8, 2024
Ok …but
I had not read this author before, but the synopsis looked interesting and I decided to give it a try it.
I thought that the story began well, Olivia had left Scotland for New York to follow her dream of becoming a fashion designer and she was succeeding, but when her brother phoned to say that their Mother had died she needed to go home. After the funeral and once the will was read, it was clear that Olivia’s future was going to change.
I lost interest in the story about halfway through, the Olivia who was the successful, confident designer in New York hadn’t come home, instead and under-confident, occasionally belligerent individual took up residence. She seemed focussed and forward thinking when dealing with estate matters, but on personal issues like her brother or her old school friend Brodie or her exalted position in the local community she seemed to revert to being a teenager. I thought that the random use of Scottish expressions in an unknown dialect was unnecessary and from my perspective irksome.
Overall, didn’t feel the story gelled, the characters didn’t seemed fully formed perhaps in the next instalment but I’m not sure I will read it.
I had not read this author before, but the synopsis looked interesting and I decided to give it a try it.
I thought that the story began well, Olivia had left Scotland for New York to follow her dream of becoming a fashion designer and she was succeeding, but when her brother phoned to say that their Mother had died she needed to go home. After the funeral and once the will was read, it was clear that Olivia’s future was going to change.
I lost interest in the story about halfway through, the Olivia who was the successful, confident designer in New York hadn’t come home, instead and under-confident, occasionally belligerent individual took up residence. She seemed focussed and forward thinking when dealing with estate matters, but on personal issues like her brother or her old school friend Brodie or her exalted position in the local community she seemed to revert to being a teenager. I thought that the random use of Scottish expressions in an unknown dialect was unnecessary and from my perspective irksome.
Overall, didn’t feel the story gelled, the characters didn’t seemed fully formed perhaps in the next instalment but I’m not sure I will read it.
March 26, 2023
Olivia live her dream and one step closer to get promotion when shaking news come, her mother gone. She comeback home, dealing with grieve and Kerr her anoyying brother who only thinking about money. What a surprise is she inheriten the castle, Olivia shock and thorne bwetween her career as dessigner or as Lady aMcbain.
I enjoy readig this book, Olivia strong and know what she want and work hard to make Drumblair castle good again. Her relationship with Brodie was full of misunderstanding, no wonder because his attitude when teenager to her. Kerr character really destroy my fantasy about scotland laird, i hope he really change after therapy and everything. How come Olivia not see clearly about Owain? Their first conversation already give a sign. Then Owain put blame to Olivia not love him, puhlessss you lie first. The epilogue with Brodie...i judge them already lol.
Thank you to NetGalley for provide this book, it is pleasure to review this book.
#ComingHometotheHighlands #LisaHobman #BoldwoodBooks #NetGalley #ARC
I enjoy readig this book, Olivia strong and know what she want and work hard to make Drumblair castle good again. Her relationship with Brodie was full of misunderstanding, no wonder because his attitude when teenager to her. Kerr character really destroy my fantasy about scotland laird, i hope he really change after therapy and everything. How come Olivia not see clearly about Owain? Their first conversation already give a sign. Then Owain put blame to Olivia not love him, puhlessss you lie first. The epilogue with Brodie...i judge them already lol.
Thank you to NetGalley for provide this book, it is pleasure to review this book.
#ComingHometotheHighlands #LisaHobman #BoldwoodBooks #NetGalley #ARC
March 28, 2023
🏰The road to happiness not always smooth🏞
A good story with romantic feelings that keep hitting roadblocks and some good topics raised, all set in the Scottish Highlands countryside near Inverness. I love a good romance set in a small Scottish community and this one passed the test of a very good story. The sad moments with Olivia dealing with her mother's sudden death felt very real and touching.
Although some of the twists were not difficult to predict, they added touches that made Coming Home to the Highlands just that bit out of the usual mold, especially the dynamic between Brodie and his wife Mags and Owain's hidden depths.
I really adored the author's novels set on the Scottish Isle of Skye and their repeating village characters. I think Hobman has the start of another winning series here.😊
Thanks to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for sharing a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest opinion.
A good story with romantic feelings that keep hitting roadblocks and some good topics raised, all set in the Scottish Highlands countryside near Inverness. I love a good romance set in a small Scottish community and this one passed the test of a very good story. The sad moments with Olivia dealing with her mother's sudden death felt very real and touching.
Although some of the twists were not difficult to predict, they added touches that made Coming Home to the Highlands just that bit out of the usual mold, especially the dynamic between Brodie and his wife Mags and Owain's hidden depths.
I really adored the author's novels set on the Scottish Isle of Skye and their repeating village characters. I think Hobman has the start of another winning series here.😊
Thanks to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for sharing a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest opinion.
April 5, 2023
Rae reviews: Coming Home to the Highlands by Lisa Hobman.
I love a book set in Scotland, and I love it even more if it’s in the Highlands. This book follows Liv, born to the Laird and Lady of the MacBain clan, after her brother Kerr, the heir. She left home to pursue fashion design in New York. Her entire life changes when she gets an unexpected phone call, and she immediately heads back to Scotland.
This book was brimming with the ins and outs of castle life, beautiful Scottish scenery, family drama, and a childhood friends to lovers trope. There is spousal abuse off page, and I thought it was wonderfully done.
Even though the plot moves well, and there are always many things happening at once, this book manages to highlight the growth that Liv goes through when her world is turned upside down. I really appreciated it because that is what happens in life.
Shoutout to the 2 adorable pups. I just love a good dog sidekick.
I love a book set in Scotland, and I love it even more if it’s in the Highlands. This book follows Liv, born to the Laird and Lady of the MacBain clan, after her brother Kerr, the heir. She left home to pursue fashion design in New York. Her entire life changes when she gets an unexpected phone call, and she immediately heads back to Scotland.
This book was brimming with the ins and outs of castle life, beautiful Scottish scenery, family drama, and a childhood friends to lovers trope. There is spousal abuse off page, and I thought it was wonderfully done.
Even though the plot moves well, and there are always many things happening at once, this book manages to highlight the growth that Liv goes through when her world is turned upside down. I really appreciated it because that is what happens in life.
Shoutout to the 2 adorable pups. I just love a good dog sidekick.
April 10, 2023
I am a sucker for a book that is set in Scotland - one of my favourite places in the world! Since I am stuck in Australia, I will just have to do my travelling via the interesting books that come my way :)
Olivia is living her dream in New York as a fashion designer. Life in New York is very different to where she came from, as the second child of an aristocratic family in Scotland. She likes that she can be a bit anonymous in New York, sharing an apartment with a good friend and just living a single life. Then, everything changes and she has to go back to Scotland.
I have to admit that Olivia's brother Kerr rubbed me up the wrong way from the start, which just goes to show how talented this author is!
Trials and tribulations follow for Olivia but there are some sunny patches too. Brodie was lovely and I adored the doggos :)
All in all, this was a very good book and I enjoyed reading it.
4.5 stars from me.
Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books.
Olivia is living her dream in New York as a fashion designer. Life in New York is very different to where she came from, as the second child of an aristocratic family in Scotland. She likes that she can be a bit anonymous in New York, sharing an apartment with a good friend and just living a single life. Then, everything changes and she has to go back to Scotland.
I have to admit that Olivia's brother Kerr rubbed me up the wrong way from the start, which just goes to show how talented this author is!
Trials and tribulations follow for Olivia but there are some sunny patches too. Brodie was lovely and I adored the doggos :)
All in all, this was a very good book and I enjoyed reading it.
4.5 stars from me.
Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books.
April 10, 2023
I have read and enjoyed quite a few books written by Lisa Hobman and now when I start one of her books I am 99% sure I will love it. Iam pleased to say I was not wrong this time!
I loved the setting in the Highlands and the contrast between the life Olivia was living in New York and the life there in Scotland and also the contrast between what various people find important in life. The story also deals with some difficult topics that put extra pressure on families, no matter whether they are biological families or not and I thought Lisa dealt with them in a heart-warming and touching way. Besides the family dramas, friendship played a huge part in this story. Re-connecting with childhood friends and newer best friends and the dogs were just the cherry on top.
This story was sweet and touching and really warmed my heart. It was probably not my favorite Lisa Hobman story, but I still loved it and now miss Olivia and some of the other characters.
I loved the setting in the Highlands and the contrast between the life Olivia was living in New York and the life there in Scotland and also the contrast between what various people find important in life. The story also deals with some difficult topics that put extra pressure on families, no matter whether they are biological families or not and I thought Lisa dealt with them in a heart-warming and touching way. Besides the family dramas, friendship played a huge part in this story. Re-connecting with childhood friends and newer best friends and the dogs were just the cherry on top.
This story was sweet and touching and really warmed my heart. It was probably not my favorite Lisa Hobman story, but I still loved it and now miss Olivia and some of the other characters.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 123 reviews