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.
