One part angst, two parts heat, stirred with longing and served with a Scottish brogue.

Warning: You will fall in love with a Macabe brother. Probably the wrong one. Probably Callum.

Elliot Fletcher is back with another sizzling, swoon-heavy romance that walks the fine line between tension and temptation—and tips it right into bed. Scotch on the Rocks is everything you want from a small-town Scottish romance: tartan-laced chemistry, familial drama with a whisky burn, and enough emotional depth to make your heart do the Highland Fling.

Juniper Ross is our lovable, smart, emotionally entangled heroine—armed with a dry wit, a rulebook she wrote herself, and absolutely no ability to follow it when Callum Macabe is in the room (which, suspiciously, he always seems to be). She’s the kind of character who feels like your best friend and your worst decision rolled into one.

And then there's Callum. Small-town hero. Quietly broody. Disarmingly kind. And totally, completely off-limits. He’s the man you want showing up when your car breaks down, your ex texts you, or your heart starts to crack open. Fletcher gives him layers that go far beyond “hot guy with an accent”—he’s compassionate, principled, and carries his own regrets like a worn-in leather jacket.

🔥 What makes this book sing isn’t just the sexual tension (though whew, buckle up)—it’s the restraint. It’s the stolen glances, the almost-kisses, the emotional minefield of shared history and unspoken what-ifs. And when the damn breaks? Let’s just say: you’ll need ice.

🍂 Themes and Vibes:

Second-chance-adjacent romance
Forbidden love (with real stakes)
Found family and complicated loyalty
That delicious “we shouldn’t—but god, we will” energy
Healing from heartbreak without losing your fire
📌 Think:
If Tessa Bailey had a Scottish cousin who understood grief, desire, and emotional baggage like a fine malt whisky—this would be their book.

⭐️ Final verdict:
Scotch on the Rocks is sexy, smart, and full of feels. It’s the kind of romance that makes you believe in timing, fate, and breaking a few self-imposed rules—especially for the right Macabe brother.

I loved this! The tension, the banter, the yearning really made me fall in love with Callum and Juniper. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to read this.

Thank you Avon books for the digital ARC.
What to expect:
-grumpy/sunshine
-age gap
-forbidden love (ex-fiance's brother)
-small-town
-Scottish romance

While I loved the tension, the pining, and the banter, this was a little too lusty for me. I would have liked to see more emotional connection between Juniper and Callum because they were obviously physically attracted to each other. Callum was a sweetheart (except when talking dirty) but I feel like it took forever for Juniper's icy heart to melt, making the story a bit repetitive at times.
3.75 rounded up to 4 stars

Listen. I did not think Elliot Fletcher could write a better book than Whisky Business. I LOVED that book. We're talking infinity stars, read it it over and over and over again.

But this one?

This one was even better. I could not put it down. It is also not one of those books that you love because you love one of the two leads. Both Callum and Juniper have my whole heart. I need the next book in the series yerterday,

Elliot Fletcher's "Scotch on the Rocks" plunges readers back into the captivating world of the Scottish Isle of Skye, this time focusing on the intricate dynamics of the Macabe family. This second installment in The Macabe Brothers series centers on Juniper Ross and Callum Macabe—a pairing that comes with a significant complication: Callum is the brother of Juniper's ex-fiancé. Despite Juniper's strict "Macabe Brother Rule Book" designed to keep her distance, fate and a series of unfortunate events at her family's inn continually throw her into Callum's path. As they're forced to work together, their undeniable chemistry and long-simmering tension ignite, challenging the boundaries of family loyalty and forbidden attraction in a story of unexpected love, healing from past hurts, and the irresistible pull of a connection that defies all rules.

Fletcher's writing in "Scotch on the Rocks" maintains the same engaging quality that made "Whiskey Business" so compelling, effectively transporting readers to the heart of Scotland. She continues incorporating phonetic spellings of Scottish accents in dialogue, adding a distinct layer of authenticity and charm to the characters' voices. While this stylistic choice might require brief adjustment for some readers, it ultimately enriches the immersive experience, making conversations feel genuine and the setting more vivid. This commitment to regional flavor remains a hallmark of Fletcher's storytelling and contributes significantly to the book's overall appeal.

The novel's rich tapestry of characters stands as one of its greatest strengths. Fans of "Whiskey Business" will delight in the return of familiar faces whose stories continue evolving, building upon the foundation laid in the previous book. This installment offers deeper development not only for central figures Juniper and Callum, but also for the broader supporting cast, making the community feel even more vibrant and authentic. The introduction of Alistair, the third Macabe brother, adds an intriguing new dynamic while setting the stage for future narratives. Several new supporting characters also contribute significantly, adding further dimension and humor to the unfolding drama.

At the heart of the novel are Juniper and Callum, whose individual journeys and combined chemistry prove truly captivating. Juniper's path to self-acceptance is particularly moving—her childhood insecurities stemming from being adopted are explored with remarkable sensitivity, and watching her discover that she deserves love feels both beautiful and profoundly real. Callum, with his charming yet grounded nature, serves as the perfect complement to Juniper's initial guardedness. Their dynamic creates undeniable, electric chemistry through interactions filled with both tender moments and incredibly steamy scenes that are woven seamlessly into the narrative, enhancing both the passion and emotional depth of their evolving relationship.

Overall, I adored this installment of The Macabe Brothers series. Juniper's journey was so real, and I was sucked in from start to finish. It's a five star read for me and I can't wait for Alistair's story in book three.

I absolutely ate this one up! Callum is the local vet and golden boy who has been in love with his brother's ex, Juniper, who runs the local inn and is emotionally closed off, for years. He convinces her to go on some fake dates with him to learn more about their island to help when talking to guests at the inn. If you like yearning in a book, let me direct you here - Callum is the epitome of yearning! also i mean who doesn’t want to live on a Scottish island with a hot, compassionate, sexy, kilt wearing MAN 💪 who just wants you to see how amazing you are so like this book was my dream 😮‍💨🥵🙏🏼 it’s steamy and fun with FABULOUS banter but also has emotional heft as Callum deals with his dad’s Alzheimer’s diagnosis and Juniper works through her self doubts that stem from being adopted 😢 also can you EVEN with that cover?!?! Just perfection in every single way!!

Scotch on the Rocks by Elliot Fletcher
The Macabe Brothers - Book 2

Callum was so obsessed with Juinper from the first time he laid his eyes on her. Unfortunately, there were some complications he did not know of, in the form of her being engaged to his brother.
That relationship does not work out and these two are thrown together when Juniper is back in her hometown.

While Juniper had some juvenile reactions to things, I really enjoyed watching her go through all of the different emotions and reactions of her feelings surrounding Callum. There was so much snark and banter between the main characters. It was a nice way to break up the heavy familial topics.

Pick this one up if you enjoy:
* Second chances
* One night stand that goes awry
* Black cat x golden retriever
* Ex-fiancee's brother
* It's always been you
* Small town Scotland
* Meddling family

I absolutely loved the first book in this series, so my expectations were sky high going into this one, and Elliot delivered. I was fully obsessed with Callum and Juniper. The history, the tension, the years of unspoken feelings—this pairing had everything I wanted. Juniper is the prickliest black cat heroine with a soft heart buried under layers of self-protection, and watching Callum patiently chip away at those defenses gave me life. Their chemistry was electric from the start, and the grumpy and sunshine energy, flipped in the best way, worked so well. I laughed, I swooned, I definitely blushed during the spice, and I loved every quiet moment where they supported and truly saw each other. Callum felt like such a golden retriever with a hammer and a plan, and the way he loved Juniper made my heart ache in the best way. This book was such a natural and satisfying follow-up to book one, and I’m already counting down to see where Elliot takes us next.

What do you need when you’re into your best friend’s brother when her other brother is your ex fiancé? Scotch on the Rocks!

I thoroughly enjoyed reading this, although it wasn’t my favorite. It was very trope heavy (he falls first, grumpy x sunshine, best friend’s brother, ex’s brother, slow burn, etc), which can be seen as either a pro or con. I liked that the characters had depth and weren’t teenagers or in their early twenties; however, they tended to act rather childishly. I loved the setting in a small Scottish town on the Isle of Skye and the perfectly cliche side characters. I very much disliked the second act drama and physical violence. The situation around how the had intercourse for the first time put me off of their romance quite a bit.

Overall, I enjoyed the read and would definitely continue to read the series as well as anything else by Elliot Fletcher.

This book was so good! First of all, the title alone—Scotch on the Rocks? Automatic yes.

The story centers on a wild concept: your own sibling stealing your girl. Weird, right? But what I loved is how the book didn’t just play it for drama—it really leaned into the idea that wrong is wrong, and being “family” doesn’t excuse betrayal. Blood doesn’t make your bad choices any less wrong.

I won’t give too much away, but the balance of romance and family tension was just right. It even hit close to home—definitely gave me flashbacks to my own family and their habit of “protecting” people by leaving out the truth. If you know, you know.

Oh I’m so obsessed with this book!! The banter was immaculate and I love how they became each other’s safe places!! I consistently felt the love between all the characters and couldn’t have dreamed of a better story for them!

This was messy, but I'd expect nothing less when the FMC is falling for her ex-boyfriend's brother. I loved the banter between Juniper and Callum. And UGH, Callum Macabe. He is so down bad for Juniper - I'm obsessed with his care and attentiveness when it comes to her - but I was surprised he was so unapologetic towards his brother in his feelings for her when the truth came to light. I think because it was his BROTHER I was expecting he'd have a little bit more empathy, but he truly didn't care about anything but being with June. I was also very surprised (and felt bad) that Malcolm was subjected to relationship information about his brother(s) that he probably didn't care to hear about. I'm sure that was so weird for him on so many levels. But overall, this was a good one! Would recommend! Thanks Netgalley for the e-ARC!

I really enjoyed this book and I’m excited for whenever a third comes around! Callum is the sweetest and I love how hard he loves. The author truly makes you love the Macabe’s even if they do have their moments.

4.5 stars. This had no right to be so hot for a slow burn. I had to put this book and walk away at times because I thought I'd lose my mind along with these two silly geese. The tension, the longing, the heart...Elliot has molded these characters so well that they feel real.

Callum is an all star MMC - no notes.

Thank you to NetGalley and Avon for this ARC. Please keep sending me to this little island full. All thoughts are my own.

Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC!
I am a fan of any book set in Scotland and a book set in the Isle of Skye makes it even better! I loved the chemistry between our main characters and how they supported each other throughout the novel. There were a lot of emotional parts to the book including child neglect, abandonment, navigating caring for a parent with Alzheimer’s, and more so make sure to check out the trigger warnings if needed! I enjoyed that this was not just a rom com, but had a lot of depth to it.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4/5)
Scotch on the Rocks by Elliot Fletcher is a charming romance set in Scotland. It's a story about unexpectedly falling for your best friend’s older brother who also happens to be your ex-fiancé’s older brother. Yikes. Juniper and Callum had great chemistry and I loved their dynamic with golden retriever meets black cat energy.

✨ Thank you to NetGalley Elliot Fletcher and Avon and Harper Voyager | Avon for the free copy in exchange for an honest review. Always grateful for the chance to read early ✨

I went into Scotch on the Rocks expecting a slow-burn romance with emotional depth and what I got was something far more intimate, aching, and beautifully raw.

This book doesn’t shout its brilliance; it hums with it. It’s quiet in all the best ways, the kind of story that sneaks into your chest and lingers long after the last page. Elliot Fletcher writes with a tenderness that feels earned, not performative. Nothing here is overdone. Every emotion, every moment, every bit of tension feels like it belongs exactly where it is.

The characters are what make this story sing. They’re imperfect in a way that feels deeply familiar, like people you’ve loved or lost or maybe even been. They fumble through their grief and longing and connection in ways that aren’t always graceful, but they’re honest. The romance is more than chemistry; it’s two people learning how to be vulnerable in a world that has taught them to be guarded.

And the writing? Quietly gorgeous. Fletcher has a way of capturing the unspoken without ever feeling heavy-handed. The setting is atmospheric without being overly romanticized, adding just enough moodiness to ground the story in something tactile and real.

“There’s nothing more lonely than a relationship with the wrong person.”

2.5 ⭐️

After an awful breakup, Juniper swears off men, especially her ex’s hot brother, Callum.

But living in a small town in Scotland means she sees him everywhere.

He is obsessed with her & does everything in his power to win her over.

When their secret isn’t so secret anymore, the two must navigate their new lives learning to love again.

What to expect:
🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 Forbidden love
🍌 Slow burn
🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 Banter
🍌 Dual POV
🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 Brother’s ex

Thoughts:
The Scotland aspect was what drew me in & it was what kept me around. I loved the “he falls first” part, but unfortunately was pretty bored and almost DNF’d it so many times.

A notch better than its predecessor. While Whisky Business ended up being a satisfying read featuring lovable characters, a lot of it coasted on vibes, whereas this book has more of a tangible plot. The manner in which Juniper and Callum found themselves spending more time together felt a little convoluted at first, but they had oodles of chemistry and were such interesting characters that I didn't mind and relished what they slowly revealed to each other. I loved that this wasn't merely an enemies to lovers tale like I expected and how there was some incredibly intriguing history between the two to reveal. I appreciated how the Alzheimer's storyline with the Macabe patriarch continued from the previous book as well as how sensitively the topics of child abandonment and adoption are handled. The story got a little messy once Alistair entered the picture, and while that portion of the plot resolved itself well by the end, it didn't make me too excited to discover that the next installment is centered on him; Heather is more deserving of a happily ever at this point and I hope that Fletcher writes one for her.

This book wasn't for me, but it may be for you if you really enjoy things like ex's brother, small town romance, and alllll the tension! For me, this story fell flat for what I was hoping I would be getting. The forbidden aspect didn't truly feel forbidden to me, and I just didn't really believe their lust/like for each other like I wish I would have. Plus, the ex really didn't play a part in the story until the end so he wasn't really posing an issue in my eyes.

I also listened to the audiobook of this story. I will say, I thought the narrators were great when they were doing their own respective parts but they fell extremely short when voicing side characters and characters of the opposite gender. I couldn't even tell when a different person was talking! I hope they work on this for any future projects because this took away from the enjoyability of the story.