Review of 'Journey to the Scottish Highlands' by Julie Shackman

Review of 'Journey to the Scottish Highlands' by Julie Shackman

Release date: January 29th, 2026

Publisher: One More Chapter

REVIEW

What a wonderful uplifting story! Julie Shackman’s latest novel has to be my favourite of the series. I was totally immersed in this incredible tale which I read in one sitting. First, I have to say the dedication reflects the heart of this beautiful, fun, witty novel that showcases a true issue in the arts industry: unfair negative feedback or hurtful reviews. Although this is a novel about an actress who received a bad review in a newspaper column by a mysterious critic named Fox, it could easily have been the same for an author who has written a book. But the beauty of this story is in its strong message for those who have become subject to unjust criticism, and even bullying. Journey to the Scottish Highlands is dedicated to all ‘dreamers’ or ‘anyone who was ever made to feel small, unloved or insignificant.’ Julie affirms, ‘You matter. And you are loved.’ These words are precious reminders to the wounded. And we see through Daisy’s experience how much a ‘critic’s stinging words’ of past artistic performances – can cause great hurt, anxiety and tear away at a person’s self-esteem. So yes, negative words can be fatal and injure souls. To the point they give up. This novel provides a positive direction and the necessary tools to overcome dark obstacles.

Daisy has been wounded by the ‘Fox’ critic character, but she has also taken offence for all her team who acted, wrote and directed the Sinister television show. She feels Fox has singlehandedly destroyed everyone’s reputation. We learn a lot in Chapter One about this person and his nasty reviews—or at least the dire effects of them. We don’t know his real name, except his pseudonym, so he is really anonymous. This gives him a cloak of invisibility: to be unaccountable and unreachable. Nobody knows his face. He can say whatever he pleases as a result. But Daisy is livid at his last review of Sinister, even though he gave her the best backhanded compliment of the lot.

We learn why she is so sensitive and why she does not want to appear as a failure. Her mother was a ‘frustrated singer’ who became pregnant very young. Her father disappeared, not wanting any part of her life. And after three months of caring for Daisy, her mother decides she is not mother material so her grandparents take over her parenting. She has their love and support and they give her a good homelife. Although her grandma has since died, her beloved grandpa is still around and they are very close. So when this unkind review strikes, she decides to go home to visit him and to be comforted. Home is her safe place (as it should be for all of us!) and a refuge to recharge and find direction.

Although Daisy is an actress, getting steady roles is not easy. Now that there is a negative review in the public domain, she fears the worst. She works at a second job in hospitality to make ends meet. And one day she serves drinks and food at a party for prestigious guests. It is here she encounters a man making very rude remarks about Sinister. She presumes he is the dreadful ‘Fox’ and wishes to dump champagne over his head. But is stopped by a journalist. To save her job. They get acquainted and seem to hit to off. As she gets ready to leave work for her grandfather’s, she discovers he is going in the same direction. When his transportation arrangement fails, after hesitation, she decides to take him on board: especially when he is willing to pay her for driving him to his destination.

On this journey homeward, they get to know each other. His name is Evan Lord and his family only live a half hour from her grandfather’s. What follows are many surprise events. Daisy must navigate through unexpected detours, but in doing so, she discovers some very good things along the way. There are also a few bumps in the road and bad things happen, too. But these trials serve to teach some valuable lessons. On a positive note, she has an opportunity to help Evan’s parents and a bullied young actress. There are some wonderful passages in this section that glowed with kindness and originality. And then, a secret is revealed that knocks Daisy off her feet.

This is a novel about detours, appearances, second chances, forgiveness, helping others, rescuing historical legacies, and finding love in unexpected places for both the young and old. This beautifully delivered story has lots of charm, heart-warming moments, enjoyable characters and positive messages. We are urged to never let go of our dreams and to not let bullies win or steal our self-worth. Journey to the Scottish Highlands is another stunning modern day Scottish romantic tale that should not be missed! 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

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