What a beautiful, heart-warming and uplifting story! I have enjoyed all of Julie Shackman’s novels but this one from the Scottish Escape series seems to be extra special. It still has her charm, wit, enemies to lovers and clever mystery elements but it feels deeper and more layered in the relationship department. There are some serious effects from trauma exposed— shock from betrayal and lingering grief from loss of loved ones. These sorts of negative life events can place a real strain and drain on a person’s confidence and it is no wonder many seek fresh starts in new locations. A Scottish Lighthouse Escape explores these topics plus the effects of rejection caused by class snobbery.

Rosie Winters is a romance author and she has had some modest literary success. Her heroes are inspired by her own husband. But a tragedy occurs followed by an unexpected reveal that turns her life upside down and makes her feel she never wants to write or love again. Julie carefully and respectfully explores the predicaments that Rosie finds herself in and the results are honest and realistic reactions. Rosie longs to get away to a place where she feels safe and loved so she heads to the cottage of her grandparents in a coastal village in Scotland—far from London. Her little dog, Bronte, is her comfort companion. She adds an endearing element to the story. Having a dog, I can appreciate every comment about Bronte’s actions and responses.

As always, Julie provides some atmospheric descriptions of the land and seascape. This locale offers a stunning environment for the characters to interact with and often nature reflects their moods and movements. Rosie’s visit to the quaint cottage opens the door to many surprises, about the lighthouse, its keeper and her grandmother who was an artist. A mysterious older man appears on the scene as well. What does he have to do with her late grandmother? Well, this part of the story is moving, tender and captivating. Elements of mystery swirl around these two as Rosie uncovers her grandmother’s past. This keeps the focus off herself and her own troubles while giving her a new purpose and mission to fulfil for her late grandmother’s wishes. She was a very talented artist but lacked confidence in her own abilities. This may have been a result of a few negative events that happened in her life.

The Lighthouse is an important icon in this story. When the man who has been the lighthouse keeper retires, a new young man takes his place. Rosie immediately rejects him because more change is not what she wants just now. She came to the coastal village to reclaim her happy memories and safe feelings of familiarity. Mitch is not part of the plan and no matter how good and kind he is and tries to help her with his neighbourly acts, she resists for a fair while. Of course, time sees her breaking down and barriers are withdrawn but not easily or swiftly. And Mitch’s dog plays a part. Gradually their relationship grows and I liked that it is a gradual more progressive one.

Other characters like Reece add extra warmth and substance to the plot. He is a key support figure that she needs to help her have courage to do what needs to be done in dealing with her grandmother’s belongings and legacy. His attributes are admirable and sincere and his kindness to Rosie made me smile. He is a man who carried a lifetime of regret so it is lovely he gets a chance to make amends (sort of) at least contribute in a positive way.

Ruth, the owner of a prestigious gallery is quite the character! And it is intriguing to learn about her past and connection to Rosie’s grandmother. Quite a backstory there! The question we all ask, will she change and make amends for her past behaviour? No more discussion on that because you need to read it and see but I will add that this part of the plot, offers some excellent surprises.

A Scottish Lighthouse Escape is a special kind of romance novel with a beautiful theme. I am reminded of Mitch’s comment about of what a lighthouse is: ‘a powerful beacon that illuminates a path through darkness and uncertainty, towards the light.’ And this is what happens for these characters. They help each other find their way back to happiness and healing. I say this most sincerely, I truly loved this novel and its characters. I was completely drawn into the storyline. I could not put it down once I started. It resonates with love, an extra layer of maturity, wisdom and skill and left my heart squeezed, teary and smiling. This magnificent story shines with a hope and brilliance that captivated my heart. 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Thanks to One More Chapter and Netgalley for a review copy.

Get ready to be swept away to the windswept shores of the Scottish Highlands in this heartfelt and uplifting romance from bestselling author Julie Shackman.

When romance author Rosie Winters finds her own love story ending abruptly, she escapes to the one place that holds fond memories - her late grandmother’s coastal cottage.

Set against a backdrop of crashing waves, wild beauty, and a charming lighthouse, A Scottish Lighthouse Escape is a comforting, slow-burn story about second chances and healing.

This isn’t your typical rom-com with a quick-fire meet-cute.

Instead, Shackman offers something more textured.

Rosie’s encounter with Mitch, the enigmatic new lighthouse keeper, is both tender and intriguing. Their connection builds gradually, making it all the more believable and rewarding.

Alongside that central relationship, the growing friendship between Rosie and Reece adds warmth and depth, reminding us that support can come from the most unexpected places.

The vivid descriptions transported me straight to the rugged Scottish coastline, I could almost feel the sea breeze and hear the waves lapping against the sand.

Shackman excels at creating a strong sense of place, and the lighthouse setting brings a real sense of quiet reflection and hope.

A Scottish Lighthouse Escape is perfect for readers looking for an emotionally rich, atmospheric romance with heart and soul. It’s a gentle reminder that sometimes, the best stories are the ones we least expect.

With thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

I enjoyed reading this book as I have visited that area of Scotland and could imagine myself there. Rosie Winters romance has gone horribly wrong, so she sets off for the furthest place possible . Living in her grandmother's old cottage near a lighthouse in the North of Scotland, she is taken aback to meet the new Lighthouse keeper, who at first sight seems incredibly bad tempered. There sre so many sub plots, but each one is intriguing. Thank you for the chance to read and review this book,

For Rosie life is going well, happily married and her new book just about to launch.

Then the day of her launch her husband is killed and then some other revelations happen that make her question her worth.

She decides not to write anore and runs away from London and move into her grandmother's cottage, she has had enough of love and enough of writing and needs some peace and solitude but she didn't count on Mitch the handsome lighthouse keeper next door.


A fabulous book, takes it's time and gives you all the feels. Fabulous characters and perfect pacing. Definite recommend.

I love these books and this did not disappoint at all. When the main character falls out of love with love she moves to the Highlands to start again. What a story you have old love , art, a broken hearted lighthouse keeper and two gorgeous dogs. Also discovering your grandparents lives . Read it and escape .

I’ didn’t realise when I received the book that I had already read and enjoyed two previous novels by Julie Shackman. Thus one didn’t disappoint. It was a lovely, gentle read, a love story set in Scotland. It had several twists and kept me interested in the plot. I especially loved the way the two dogs played an integral part in the story; you can tell that the author is a dog lover.
Thank you to the publisher and net galley for this advanced copy in exchange for an honest review. I thoroughly recommend the book and am now off to read some of the others by this author!