This was a fantastic slow burn romance. I was on edge for so long, I felt like I was the one trying to take things slow.

I also usually only listen to audiobooks at work or in the car, and I listened to this until I finished. The narrators are amazing, and the only thing that would make it better is if the narration had each narrator read their character's lines in the other narrator's chapters.

Loved it!

TW: Dementia, Loss of a parent, Adoption

I was not expecting the emotions of this book to hit me so hard, I'm usually pretty tough but wow did that ending get to me!

Juniper is holding down the fort (a.k.a. their family owned inn) while her mother is away on a long needed vacation after the death of her father. Juniper was adopted and has always been waiting for the other shoe to drop in terms of the love her parents have shown her. She's been independent her whole life as to not get hurt. She fits the black cat trope to a tee...she even has a cat that is the devil incarnate.

Callum is the brother of Juniper's ex fiance. He's been in love with her for years...literally. But of course he never made a move even after Juniper and Alister's engagement fell apart after the death of her father, except for that one night 5 years ago. Callum is the town good guy, always willing to help out, to the be the hero. And when Juniper needs help with renovating the inn while her mom is away Callum steps up to the plate...well because he'd do literally anything for her. He is completely head over heels for her. He is the golden retriever to her black cat personality and has the patience of a saint. There love is forbidden and it only makes their little dates and trysts hotter.

Callum's dad has recently been diagnosed with dementia and his condition is quickly deteriorating but Callum as the oldest son puts all the responsibility of it on his own shoulders and doesn't really mention what's going on to his brothers and sisters. This whole situation really got to me. One of my biggest fears with my parents aging is the threat of dementia so this was super hard to get through without getting emotional.

I did not read the first book in this series and now I'm definitely going back to do so because I loved this so much! I need to see how April and Mal got together, they seem so cute and fun! I wasn't sure if there were any glimpses of Callum and Juniper in the first book, at times I thought there might've been while reading this one...like I might've missed something small. But for the most part Scotch on the Rocks stands on its own. The chemistry is smoking between Callum and Juniper, and the growth of the relationship is steady and beautiful as you read on. I definitely cried a few times when Juniper talks about her feelings and especially when her mom comes back omg that hit my heart so hard!

I did listen to this one (bless you Harper Audio for an ALC!) and enjoyed it for the most part. The male narrator, Russ Bain, was fantastic. I loved his accent and his short and terse "fuck"s and the way he said "sweetheart" so swoony! Unfortunately I can't say I enjoyed the female narrator, Rebecca McClay. Her voice seemed to stay the same regardless if she was doing Juniper's voice or Callum's and I didn't really feel much emotion from her. While her voice and accent were pleasant, it just felt like she was reading from the book instead of bringing it to life.

I'm looking forward to the next book, while it's not the McCabe sister who definitely needs some love in her life, it is Alistair and I'm interested in seeing his redemption arc. Thank you again to Harper Audio for gifting me this ALC via NetGalley!

3.5/5

Scotch on the Rocks was such a fun read! Set in Scotland, we get the classic forbidden romance of a brother’s ex girlfriend/I saw her first/steamy rom-com. The chemistry between the two was there from the start and the banter???? Chef’s kiss.

I listened to this one on audio and I loved the duet style of the narration! The Scottish accents were thicccc tho so I had to listen to it a bit slower than I usually do. It felt very authentic and the narrators did a fantastic job.

While I enjoyed the love story, the fmc’s inner monologue was quite cringe at times and the way she handled conflict was eye-rolling. No notes on the MMC - I need 14 of him right now. The way he was there for her through literal thick and thin and always put her first made me SWOON.

Thank you to NetGalley and HarperCollins for an advanced copy of this audiobook in exchange for my honest review!

This is the second book in the Macabe Brother’s series. It can definitely be read as part of the series or as a standalone. I had a chance to enjoy it as an Audiobook from Netgallery. I have to say for my first audiobook enjoyed the dual POV narration.

The two main characters Callum and Juniper had such a great chemistry with the witty banter. The beginning definitely sets up for a slow burn between the characters. The MMC was such a golden retriever compared to her black cat attitude.

In my opinion it was a fun, witty and entertaining summer read. Can’t wait to see what is in store for the 3rd Macabe brother.

Thank you Netgallery. All options are my own.

I LOVED THIS BOOK AND THE NARRATORS. THE WAY THIS BOOK TEASES YOU IS AMAZING. ALSO WHY DO THEY GET INTERUPYED SO MUCH.

Oh man, I debated several times on DNFing this one. But ultimately decided not to. I was just intrigued enough. But I couldn’t relate to Juniper at all, I truly couldn’t stand her. And I love a black cat FMC. Particularly love a reverse grumpy/sunshine trope with a black cat FMC and golden retriever MMC. But this one just fell flat for me. Callum gave me the ick enough that it turned me off. He didn’t feel like a traditional golden retriever character, he felt obsessed, and not in a good way. And Junipers feelings for her ex felt sooooooo drawn out.
This one just sadly wasn’t for me.

Okay mixed feelings. The grumpy/sunshine was done well within their own banter, but I didn’t like how she was painted as a grumpy/witchy/weirdo by the townsfolk. It also seemed very insta-love once they decided to go for it. To be fair- I never read Whiskey Business so maybe there’s more back story?

Narration was done well with top notch accents.

I went back and forth on whether or not to DNF this one. Some parts felt a little slow, while others genuinely made me laugh. I actually liked the accents in the audiobook; they added character and atmosphere. But the delivery of Juniper’s chapters lacked emotion and felt really monotone, which made it hard to stay engaged. I ended up speeding through her sections just to keep the pace up.

Callum was a total charmer. He had that witty, flirty energy I love in a male lead. I liked Juniper’s character in theory, but hearing her perspective in that voice made it tough to connect. The story definitely gave off black cat and golden retriever energy, which worked really well. I also appreciated the focus on family and community, which added some depth to the plot.

The spice was balanced and didn’t overshadow the story, and the chemistry between Callum and Juniper really came through in their interactions.

Overall, it wasn’t a bad book. I just think I would have had a better experience if I had read it on my own instead of listening to the audiobook.

Hello friends! I had the chance to listen to an advance copy of Scotch on the Rocks by Elliot Fletcher, thanks to NetGalley. This is the second book in the Macabe series, but don’t worry if you haven’t read the first one yet, I haven't read it either, you can jump right in. But, if you’re anything like me you’ll probably want to go back and read book one after finishing this!

The story kicks off with Cal meeting Juniper on a train and trying to charm her, only to be turned down flat. He figures that’s the last he’ll see of her, but fate has other plans. Just a few hours later, Juniper turns up again only this time she is being introduced as his brother’s fiancée. Fast forward to the next chapter, and they broke up, she moved away, and now, after a chance encounter, Cal can’t stop thinking about her. He wants to be with her, but he’s convinced she’s still hung up on his brother, especially when she brings up her ex at the worst possible moment and is still hanging on to his engagement ring years later. Is she truly over her ex? Does Cal have a shot with Juniper?

What I loved most about this book is how determined Cal is to help Juniper, even when she doesn’t realize it. He’s the kind of hero who falls hard and fast, and I’m always a sucker for a love-at-first-sight story, especially when it’s the guy who’s head over heels. Juniper is just as wonderful, always doing her best to take care of Cal in return. Their chemistry is undeniable, and I loved watching their relationship grow from awkward beginnings to something real and heartfelt.

The narration by Russ Bain and Rebecca McClay adds so much to the story. They bring both Cal and Juniper to life, making the audiobook experience even more engaging and emotional.

So, friends, if you're wondering if 'Scotch on the Rocks' is for you, just think: are you ready for a sweet, romantic listen with just the right amount of drama and heart? If you love stories about second chances, complicated family ties, and love at first sight, this one is definitely for you. Plus, If you haven’t read the first book in the series yet, you have time to read it before this book is out. Scotch on the Rocks is being released on July 8th, so grab it now so you're ready for this second book in the series when it releases!

Alright listen up and listen good.
I freaking loved this. Loved it so much more than the first one. Like this black cat / golden retriever energy. Ugh chef kiss.
Brothers ex?! Ugh. I loved I loved I loved. The moment he could take it anymore and claimed her ? Soooo worth the punch in the face. I truly loved and could stop listening to this, I was reading and enjoyed it but then hearing them ugh!! She was such a beautiful complex character and he was nothing but always there always helping always seeing her !!! I can’t wait for this to come out so more people can read them.

if this wasnt an audio, i would have DNFd. the Scottish accents saved that part but boy these characters JUST WENT ROUND AND ROUND AND ROUND AND IT WAS WEIRD. I was expecting something else from the title and description. I would probably not pick up another Fletcher book.

Rating: 3.2 stars "Scotch on the Rocks" by Elliot Fletcher is a warm, witty small-town romance set against the rugged beauty of the Isle of Skye. The story follows Juniper Ross, who wants nothing to do with the charming but frustrating Macabe brothers—especially not Callum, her irritatingly attractive neighbor. Callum was once her future brother-in-law when Juniper was engaged to his younger brother. But when circumstances keep throwing them together, Juniper finds herself questioning the rules she swore to follow. Their enemies-to-lovers dynamic is full of sharp banter, undeniable chemistry, and a slow-burn attraction that delivers both emotional depth and swoony moments.

Fletcher does a great job capturing the charm of island life, with a cast of lovable secondary characters and a setting that feels rich and real. While the story drags a little in the middle with some side drama, it picks up steam for a satisfying finish. With strong character development, clever dialogue, and plenty of heart, Scotch on the Rocks is the kind of romance that feels both comforting and fun—perfect for fans of cozy settings and tension-filled love stories. **Warning: this book contains some super spicy scenes**

Unfortunately I had to DNF this - I think this story could be incredible but I think this is one I will have to read a physical copy! Call me a "dumb" American because I had trouble with the Scottish accents. Both narrators had beautiful voices and while their accents are also gorgeous, I had trouble understanding everything. The main issue however was the narrators did not have distinct voices/inflections while narrating other characters and so I had a lot of trouble following the story. I couldn't quite pick out who was speaking and it took me out of the story.

If these facts don't seem like a big deal - then do yourself a favor and try this one out! I will be picking up a physical copy when this releases instead and really looking forward to enjoying the story!

Thank you Netgalley and HarperAudio Adult | HarperAudio for the free alc. My opinions are being left voluntarily. I absolutely loved the narration, the voices were so soothing and absolutely love this love story. Exes older brother, second chance yes to it all. I 2ill absolutely need a trophy for my shelf.

Suggest giving it a try if you read open door romance.

5/5☆

This book hooked me. it was spicier than the title/art led me to believe and I am okay with this. I did not read the first book but didn't really feel left out of the plot. I do want to go back and catch up on some things because I like the characters and want to hear their story.

The FMC and MMC really pulled me through this because I was invested from the jump. Some things did feel disjointed and I'm hoping it's just the ARC but I did have to scroll back a few times for weird book physics things like "when did he move to his knees", "wasn't her leg just..." overall it was fine but I was gaslighting myself at some point over their positioning.

I was a little iffy on the big proclamation and how it came about but I'm going to just chalk it up to how this couple functions. Factually, I was super entertained and breezed through this story.

The narration was amazing

Thank you so much to the author Avon/Harper Voyager and Netgalley for this ARC. I attest that I am leaving my review voluntarily and honestly.

The highlight of this book was definitely the setting for me. The banter while mostly fun was almost too much at times. I didn't love the brothers ex thing but can imagine some people like that. Just wasn't for me. The audio narration was great!

* ex-fiancées brother
* he falls first
* black cat / golden retriever
* age gap
* dual POV

I overall liked Juniper and Callum's story! They had great chemistry, but I wanted more from their backstory?! It seemed like the plot was leaning on Callum's longstanding feelings for Juniper, but that aspect felt too insta-lovey? With that, I liked the build up to their relationship (def a slow burn), but just wasn't as invested as I had hoped to be!

3.5 stars

I absoultely LOVED the first book in this series- so the bar was set high for this one. When I tell you that Elliot NAILED this one- she freaking NAILED it yall. I LOVED Callum and Juniper. The tabooness of her being previously engaged to his brother. The fact that he has been pining after her for YEARS and has now finally decided he is done hiding his feelings. The lingering looks and questions they asked of like are they feeling this too? Juniper being a true black cat and using her claws when she has any type of feelings. I loved this setting once again. I LOVED the accents in the audiobook- they just helped bring the scene to life for me. I loved how Callum had this reputation in June's eyes that was ultimately wrong. That he had been trying to not acknowledge these feelings he had for her until he no longer was. Watching June recognize that there really was something between them was great. But ultimately I loved how much they supported each other. They were legit opposites on paper- our black cat with the town golden retriever, but they worked. The chemistry was legit electric. Watching June let her walls down and getting a peek of the mushy center was nothing short of GLORIOUS. She had such a huge heart- it had just been blackened so many times that she wanted to protect it. The spice was GLORIOUS- I liked the role reversal there- IYKYK.

Juniper has decided to finally take the plunge. She is going to do some redecorating ideas that she has been dreaming of for the B&B her and her mom run together. But of course things don't go her way and now she has found herself having to call Callum Macabe. Which breaks all of her Macabe Brothers rules which now only apply to Callum and Allistair. See June has a history with these men. One had her heart and broke it, and one was on the precipice of something and rejected her. Or at least that's how she sees it. But she pulls her big girl pants and asks Callum for help. Why does he have to be so insufferable and good looking? How can one man create such feelings in her? How did she agree to him showing her around the island and getting together with him for his help. How is she supposed to act around him with all of this energy running around them. How is she not supposed to kiss him when he looks at her like that. How is she not supposed to wonder if she was with the wrong Macabe Brother all those years ago. How has she gone so long without feeling this way with a man- so in control and worshipped at the same time. How will the conversation go when they tell his family. How is this so complicated. And how has she lost control of the situation and still is all in. Because now that she has been with Callum there is no going back. She is his and he is hers. She will have it no other way.

Callum has been down bad for his little brother's ex for YEARS. He fell in love with her the first time they met before he realized who she was. And years later when they had a chance he walked away because he recognized that he wanted MORE from her than what she could give him. But now it has been YEARS, and he is ready to shoot his shot. Which is how he finds himself offering his services as a handyman if she agrees to go on 4 outdoor dates with him. He just wants a chance to show her how great they could be together. He sees how she looks at him. He knows what is in that look because it's how he looks at her. But she is so closed up. So jaded. Which is why Callum likes poking at her. He likes getting her to react and getting her fired up. The more time he spends around her the more they come close to crossing the unwritten line that is there. The line that he is oh so willing to cross, but he doesn't want to do so until she says. So when she says YES, he is beyond ready to jump. And now they are doing this thing. She is so much more than what she shows the world. He is beyond honored that he is getting to see this side of her. He is beyond honored that she has chosen him. Now he just has to figure out how to keep her without messing up his relationships with his brother. All while making sure she recognizes that he isn't going anywhere without her.

I felt so much reading this one yall. I laughed out loud. I LOVED how much Callum liked to poke her. How when he saw her not acting herself he poked her so she could get back to her natural state of annoyance around him. I loved June. She was such a prickly woman but if you were in her club she was like a mama bear. I loved learning more about her past and why she was the way she was. I liked that we finally got to meet Allistair in the flesh. But most of all I loved the LOVE these two had for each other. And how RIGHT it felt. Their spicy scenes had me 1000% blushing. And looking around to make sure my volume wasn't too high in my car HAHA. I loved learning about Callum and how he had mastered the front of acting like all was well when really he wanted someone to love him. I can't recommend this series enough!! This was a wonderful follow up to book 1. I am PUMPED to see where else Elliot takes us in this world. I found myself trying to figure out who Allistair is going to end up with- any thoughts on that??

Thank you to NetGalley for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!

This story was such a delicious mix of slow burn and spice—I couldn’t get enough. Juniper, with her black-cat candy shell and vulnerable, chewy center, was written so perfectly and felt so relatable. And Callum? Whew. Do yourself a favor and grab the audiobook. I don’t care what he’s saying—as long as that man is talking, I’ll listen.
The relationship between them was sweet, salty, and sinfully satisfying. Can’t wait for the next book in the series to see them again.

What a cute story! I listened to the audio version and it just added to the experience. With both narrarotors being Scottish, it made the audio version that much more enjoyable.

Both the main characters were likable. I love romance stories that focus on small acts of love consistently rather than one grand gesture. This MMC did that in spades. Superficially, the two seem to be opposites but had enough in common/understanding of each other that it felt like they could work long term.

I loved that there was no third act break up especially since it took a while before they perused a relationship. It felt like it took a long time for them to actually decide to try to be together. There was a little too much will they, won't they for me.

After finishing this one, I will be reading the first one.

Thank you to NetGalley and HarperAudio Adult for the ARC!