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Scottish Highlands #4
Kerstgeheimen in de Schotse hooglanden
Kom dit jaar kerst vieren in de Schotse Hooglanden, waar je kunt smullen van een glaasje wijn, romantiek en sappige geheimen…
De dertigjarige Merry heeft de liefde afgezworen en neemt zich voor haar hart nooit meer te laten breken. Als haar tante Ava haar vraagt om op haar huis Chestnut Cottage in Christmas Village te passen en voor haar opmerkelijke verzameling dieren te zorgen, grijpt Merry haar kans. Een verblijf in de besneeuwde Schotse Hooglanden tijdens de kerstdagen is precies het uitstapje dat ze nodig heeft.
Al tijdens haar eerste nacht in de kleine cottage gaat álles mis. De verlichting werkt niet en het is vreselijk koud. Wanneer tante Ava’s konijn Chewy ook nog per ongeluk iets verkeerds eet, moet ze noodgedwongen een beroep doen op de lokale dierenarts Theo. Hij doet Merry beseffen dat ze absoluut niets afweet van de verzorging van dieren. En het wordt nog erger: Theo, die ook nog eens vreselijk opgewekt en ontzettend knap is, staat erop om elke dag langs te komen en Merry te helpen met de dieren, terwijl ze had gehoopt om de kerstdagen alleen door te brengen. Bovendien zit Merry helemaal niet te wachten op een man die de hele tijd haar handje komt vasthouden.
Als Theo met zijn ondeugende gevoel voor humor en broeierige blikken Merry op een koude avond gezelschap houdt, moet ze wel toegeven dat hij haar hart sneller laat kloppen. Voor het eerst in lange tijd laat Merry de muren die ze om haar hart heeft opgetrokken zakken.
Maar dan ontdekt Merry dat Theo al die tijd iets voor haar heeft achtergehouden, waardoor ze zich afvraagt of ze hem wel echt kan vertrouwen. Kan Theo Merry overtuigen dat ze hem een tweede kans moet geven? Of zal Merry Christmas Village moeten verlaten met een nogmaals gebroken hart?
De dertigjarige Merry heeft de liefde afgezworen en neemt zich voor haar hart nooit meer te laten breken. Als haar tante Ava haar vraagt om op haar huis Chestnut Cottage in Christmas Village te passen en voor haar opmerkelijke verzameling dieren te zorgen, grijpt Merry haar kans. Een verblijf in de besneeuwde Schotse Hooglanden tijdens de kerstdagen is precies het uitstapje dat ze nodig heeft.
Al tijdens haar eerste nacht in de kleine cottage gaat álles mis. De verlichting werkt niet en het is vreselijk koud. Wanneer tante Ava’s konijn Chewy ook nog per ongeluk iets verkeerds eet, moet ze noodgedwongen een beroep doen op de lokale dierenarts Theo. Hij doet Merry beseffen dat ze absoluut niets afweet van de verzorging van dieren. En het wordt nog erger: Theo, die ook nog eens vreselijk opgewekt en ontzettend knap is, staat erop om elke dag langs te komen en Merry te helpen met de dieren, terwijl ze had gehoopt om de kerstdagen alleen door te brengen. Bovendien zit Merry helemaal niet te wachten op een man die de hele tijd haar handje komt vasthouden.
Als Theo met zijn ondeugende gevoel voor humor en broeierige blikken Merry op een koude avond gezelschap houdt, moet ze wel toegeven dat hij haar hart sneller laat kloppen. Voor het eerst in lange tijd laat Merry de muren die ze om haar hart heeft opgetrokken zakken.
Maar dan ontdekt Merry dat Theo al die tijd iets voor haar heeft achtergehouden, waardoor ze zich afvraagt of ze hem wel echt kan vertrouwen. Kan Theo Merry overtuigen dat ze hem een tweede kans moet geven? Of zal Merry Christmas Village moeten verlaten met een nogmaals gebroken hart?
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Published October 10, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 104 reviews
September 30, 2023
Sweet, charming, delightful, and charming! Christmas Secrets in the Scottish Highlands is the perfect festive enemies to lovers book that has heart and soul. Christmas Resort is a joyful and lovely location where people can get into the holiday mood. It is a festive and welcoming place to make memories, for lives to change, and for snow to fall.
Damon MacAndrew is on a mission to buy the resort and make drastic changes. He once stayed at Christmas Resort. His stay began happily but ended with heartbreak.
Holliday Harrison is doing her best to bring on the holiday cheer. She lost her fiancé a few years ago and working at Charismas Resort is like a warm embrace that she desperately needs. She is determined to change Damon's mind about changing the resort.
Sleigh bells ring, snow falls, and the attraction between Holliday and Damon grows. Both are likeable characters with pain in their pasts. They both have a reason for being at the resort. Both are on a path and the beauty of this book is when their paths collide.
The setting of the book was wonderful. Who doesn't love cozy and welcoming cabins? The fireplaces, the smell of cinnamon, hot cocoa, snowflakes, and holiday cheer. The resort has a little bit of something for everyone and I enjoyed the characters, especially Bonnibell who was a delight.
Romance is a journey, and I enjoyed the journey that the characters went on both individually and together. This was a heartwarming, festive romance in a lovely setting. This is the perfect book to read while curling up with a warm blanket and a cup of cocoa. I found this book to be well written, well thought out and charming.
Well written, festive, charming, and heartwarming.
#ChristmasSecretsintheScottishHighlands #NetGalley #Donna Ashcroft #Bookouture
Thank you to Bookouture and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com
Damon MacAndrew is on a mission to buy the resort and make drastic changes. He once stayed at Christmas Resort. His stay began happily but ended with heartbreak.
Holliday Harrison is doing her best to bring on the holiday cheer. She lost her fiancé a few years ago and working at Charismas Resort is like a warm embrace that she desperately needs. She is determined to change Damon's mind about changing the resort.
Sleigh bells ring, snow falls, and the attraction between Holliday and Damon grows. Both are likeable characters with pain in their pasts. They both have a reason for being at the resort. Both are on a path and the beauty of this book is when their paths collide.
The setting of the book was wonderful. Who doesn't love cozy and welcoming cabins? The fireplaces, the smell of cinnamon, hot cocoa, snowflakes, and holiday cheer. The resort has a little bit of something for everyone and I enjoyed the characters, especially Bonnibell who was a delight.
Romance is a journey, and I enjoyed the journey that the characters went on both individually and together. This was a heartwarming, festive romance in a lovely setting. This is the perfect book to read while curling up with a warm blanket and a cup of cocoa. I found this book to be well written, well thought out and charming.
Well written, festive, charming, and heartwarming.
#ChristmasSecretsintheScottishHighlands #NetGalley #Donna Ashcroft #Bookouture
Thank you to Bookouture and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com
December 26, 2023
Imagine bulldozing places that remind you of your cheating ex instead of getting therapy.......
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 2, 2025
Christmas Secrets in the Scottish Highlands
4✨
4✨
December 22, 2024
This was a cute holiday read. It follows Damon and Holliday. Holliday works at a Christmas resort that Damon has bought and it’s their love story.
I enjoyed this, it was an easy read. I didn’t fall in love with the characters but they were ok. I did like the concept of the themed resort though!
Thank you to netgalley for providing me with an advanced reader copy in exchange for a review. As always all thoughts are my own! 3 stars 🌟
I enjoyed this, it was an easy read. I didn’t fall in love with the characters but they were ok. I did like the concept of the themed resort though!
Thank you to netgalley for providing me with an advanced reader copy in exchange for a review. As always all thoughts are my own! 3 stars 🌟
September 30, 2023
Whatever the time of year,
It is the festive season here!
The Christmas resort in the Highlands is where
Every week guests celebrate Christmas there.
Holliday Harrison works there now
Endeavouring to have purpose somehow.
The death of her fiancé left her reeling
Her job here gives her purpose and a happy feeling.
Damon MacAndrew plans to buy the place
And change everything building a hotel in the space.
Can the Resort team change his point of view
So he'll also change his plans for what to do?
A story where others have changed their lives
But can the magic of the Christmas resort help them revise
What they'll do next and help them give a chance
To the possibility of a new romance?
A heartwarming read full of festive cheer
Where folks realise the support needed by those they hold dear.
It isn't a story about just two
But about the community and what they do.
For my copy of this book, I say thank you,
As I share with you this, my honest review.
It is the festive season here!
The Christmas resort in the Highlands is where
Every week guests celebrate Christmas there.
Holliday Harrison works there now
Endeavouring to have purpose somehow.
The death of her fiancé left her reeling
Her job here gives her purpose and a happy feeling.
Damon MacAndrew plans to buy the place
And change everything building a hotel in the space.
Can the Resort team change his point of view
So he'll also change his plans for what to do?
A story where others have changed their lives
But can the magic of the Christmas resort help them revise
What they'll do next and help them give a chance
To the possibility of a new romance?
A heartwarming read full of festive cheer
Where folks realise the support needed by those they hold dear.
It isn't a story about just two
But about the community and what they do.
For my copy of this book, I say thank you,
As I share with you this, my honest review.
January 4, 2025
Neurazí, nenadchne. Má to hezký vánoční vibe, takže ideální čtení na advent, kdy už se člověk nemůže dočkat Vánoc. Ale hodně věcí mi přišlo nedotažených nebo nevěrohodných.
November 3, 2025
⭐️ 3.5 ⭐️ luisterboek/ebook
Je kan nooit te vroeg beginnen met een kerstboek. Leuke feelgood romance. Ik ben nu ook benieuwd naar de rest van de delen. Al is mijn kerst tbr al veel te lang.
Je kan nooit te vroeg beginnen met een kerstboek. Leuke feelgood romance. Ik ben nu ook benieuwd naar de rest van de delen. Al is mijn kerst tbr al veel te lang.
October 26, 2023
Christmas Overload
Ein Weihnachtsbuch im September lesen... warum nicht?
Und dabei bin ich nun absolut kein Weihnachtsfan. Trotzdem habe ich dieses Buch bei netgalley als Leseexemplar angefragt, weil ich schon andere Bücher von Donna Ashcroft gelesen habe und diese sehr unterhaltsam fand.
Was ich nicht erwartet hatte, war der totale Christmas-Overload: Ein Resort, in dem das ganze Jahr über jede Woche Weihnachten gefeiert wird, in dem die Haustiere Mr. Jingels und Frosty heißen, auf jeder zweiten Seite von Plätzchen die Rede war (das macht Appetit beim Lesen) und sich auch sonst (fast) alles um Weihnachten dreht. das war für einen Grinch wie mich doch vorsichtig ausgedrückt, sehr gewöhnungsbedürftig.
Allerdings: die Lovestory von Holliday und Damon war wirklich romantisch, auch alle anderen Figuren habe ich schnell ins Herz geschlossen und schlussendlich ist von Weihnachten zu lesen nicht annähernd so stressig und anstrengend wie Weihnachten zu feiern.
Auf jeden Fall hat dieses Buch Lust darauf gemacht, auch den von mir noch ungelesenen Band der Reihe auch jetzt gleich im noch wenig winterlichen Frühherbst zu lesen.
Ein Weihnachtsbuch im September lesen... warum nicht?
Und dabei bin ich nun absolut kein Weihnachtsfan. Trotzdem habe ich dieses Buch bei netgalley als Leseexemplar angefragt, weil ich schon andere Bücher von Donna Ashcroft gelesen habe und diese sehr unterhaltsam fand.
Was ich nicht erwartet hatte, war der totale Christmas-Overload: Ein Resort, in dem das ganze Jahr über jede Woche Weihnachten gefeiert wird, in dem die Haustiere Mr. Jingels und Frosty heißen, auf jeder zweiten Seite von Plätzchen die Rede war (das macht Appetit beim Lesen) und sich auch sonst (fast) alles um Weihnachten dreht. das war für einen Grinch wie mich doch vorsichtig ausgedrückt, sehr gewöhnungsbedürftig.
Allerdings: die Lovestory von Holliday und Damon war wirklich romantisch, auch alle anderen Figuren habe ich schnell ins Herz geschlossen und schlussendlich ist von Weihnachten zu lesen nicht annähernd so stressig und anstrengend wie Weihnachten zu feiern.
Auf jeden Fall hat dieses Buch Lust darauf gemacht, auch den von mir noch ungelesenen Band der Reihe auch jetzt gleich im noch wenig winterlichen Frühherbst zu lesen.
September 12, 2023
It is isn’t Christmas without a Donna Ashcroft novel to indulge in, bring in the festive cheer and remind us of the beauty of the season, the wonder of friendship, the meaning of family (that often goes beyond blood relations) and the transforming power of love.
Christmas Secrets in the Scottish Highlands is a wonderful romp through a stunning landscape that can never be underestimated for its ability to change hearts and bring into focus what is important in life. It can offer healing, too. How many of us can say that we have stood in breath-taking scenery and felt lifted, elated even by the wonder and beauty of nature? And with the amazing views and cosiness of the Christmas Resort in the Scottish Highlands, a lot can happen and does! The premises is under threat. It is being sold to a man who has questionable motives. The employees, especially Holliday, are hoping to discourage him from making the purchase. Little does she know how much he plans to change the place or why. So with the help of her friends, she uses various negative tactics to dissuade him but he recognises the plot. So the approach is changed. They all want him to see the beauty and value of the resort—enough not to destroy it—and hope he will rather put some money into fixing it up, while keeping the spirit and history of the place in mind.
But, of course, history is the problem in this story. Two individuals at odds – one with great memories and the other with negative ones at Christmas Resort. Our female lead character has a festive name: Holliday that really reflects her interests and personality. Damon, on the other hand, is quite the opposite. And although his name means ‘one who tames or subdues’ it seems Holliday is the one to tame or subdue this grumpy anti-holiday character. Instead of processing his grief and humiliation from the past, he just ploughs over it or tries to remove everything connected to his bad experience. His sister tries hard to make him see his lack of emotional progress and that he really needs to move on. But he is adamant. And for a while measures everything in his life by the one horrible event he had.
Damon has suffered embarrassment and hurt from the hands of his ex-wife and is not giving up his mission to remove everything that reminds him of the experience—including Christmas Resort. Of course, Holliday must tame ‘Demon’ as she calls him and make him see the beauty and importance of this special place. A place that holds heart- warming memories. But also, some sad ones. But while Damon is trying to kill his romantic connections, Holliday is trying to keep hers alive. Each of these characters requires some emotional growth and to process the pain attached to this location. On their journey through the minefield, they draw comfort and fresh vision from their stunning Scottish surroundings and each other. It is a beautiful story of second chances, restoration and self- discovery. And the power of unexpected love.
I love that past characters from the series sweep in and add their humour and helpfulness and there are lovely animals dotted throughout the story. The cat plays a devilish role in Holliday’s attempt at saving Christmas Resort but is innocent of acts of malice! There’s a healthy dose of light-hearted humour in this rescue mission tale but underneath lies some serious wonderful wisdom. Donna’s creative craftmanship just keeps getting greater and greater for this story is polished and glistening!
This fun, heart-warming, festive and fiery Christmas tale brimming with community spirit is a perfect read for the cold snowy winter nights of the north or the hot lazy summer days of the south. It reminds us of the importance of processing grief so that it does not turn into something ugly. Forgiveness brings healing and allows true growth. It offers us freedom to run carefree on the beach or dance in the snowflakes! This enemies to lovers’ romance will lift your heart and make you soar! I absolutely adored Christmas Secrets in the Scottish Highlands and highly recommend it. 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Many thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for a review copy.
Christmas Secrets in the Scottish Highlands is a wonderful romp through a stunning landscape that can never be underestimated for its ability to change hearts and bring into focus what is important in life. It can offer healing, too. How many of us can say that we have stood in breath-taking scenery and felt lifted, elated even by the wonder and beauty of nature? And with the amazing views and cosiness of the Christmas Resort in the Scottish Highlands, a lot can happen and does! The premises is under threat. It is being sold to a man who has questionable motives. The employees, especially Holliday, are hoping to discourage him from making the purchase. Little does she know how much he plans to change the place or why. So with the help of her friends, she uses various negative tactics to dissuade him but he recognises the plot. So the approach is changed. They all want him to see the beauty and value of the resort—enough not to destroy it—and hope he will rather put some money into fixing it up, while keeping the spirit and history of the place in mind.
But, of course, history is the problem in this story. Two individuals at odds – one with great memories and the other with negative ones at Christmas Resort. Our female lead character has a festive name: Holliday that really reflects her interests and personality. Damon, on the other hand, is quite the opposite. And although his name means ‘one who tames or subdues’ it seems Holliday is the one to tame or subdue this grumpy anti-holiday character. Instead of processing his grief and humiliation from the past, he just ploughs over it or tries to remove everything connected to his bad experience. His sister tries hard to make him see his lack of emotional progress and that he really needs to move on. But he is adamant. And for a while measures everything in his life by the one horrible event he had.
Damon has suffered embarrassment and hurt from the hands of his ex-wife and is not giving up his mission to remove everything that reminds him of the experience—including Christmas Resort. Of course, Holliday must tame ‘Demon’ as she calls him and make him see the beauty and importance of this special place. A place that holds heart- warming memories. But also, some sad ones. But while Damon is trying to kill his romantic connections, Holliday is trying to keep hers alive. Each of these characters requires some emotional growth and to process the pain attached to this location. On their journey through the minefield, they draw comfort and fresh vision from their stunning Scottish surroundings and each other. It is a beautiful story of second chances, restoration and self- discovery. And the power of unexpected love.
I love that past characters from the series sweep in and add their humour and helpfulness and there are lovely animals dotted throughout the story. The cat plays a devilish role in Holliday’s attempt at saving Christmas Resort but is innocent of acts of malice! There’s a healthy dose of light-hearted humour in this rescue mission tale but underneath lies some serious wonderful wisdom. Donna’s creative craftmanship just keeps getting greater and greater for this story is polished and glistening!
This fun, heart-warming, festive and fiery Christmas tale brimming with community spirit is a perfect read for the cold snowy winter nights of the north or the hot lazy summer days of the south. It reminds us of the importance of processing grief so that it does not turn into something ugly. Forgiveness brings healing and allows true growth. It offers us freedom to run carefree on the beach or dance in the snowflakes! This enemies to lovers’ romance will lift your heart and make you soar! I absolutely adored Christmas Secrets in the Scottish Highlands and highly recommend it. 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Many thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for a review copy.
September 11, 2023
In this heartfelt and festive enemies to lovers tale, sweet and hopeful Holliday Harrison is overcoming a tragic past through her time working at Christmas Resort, the very place that surly Damon MacAndrews is threatening to buy and bulldoze along with his memories of a former heartache. Author Donna Ashcroft continues to deliver with her signature style that has become the paperback equivalent to curling up with a mug of hot cocoa and turning on a feel good holiday rom-com under the twinkling lights. At just 200 pages and aptly paced, it’s a quick read that could easily be picked up by Hallmark and turned into a must watch on their Christmas lineup.
The main characters of Holliday and Damon are written with ample amounts of heart making them an easy couple to root for, but it’s the cast of quirky characters who work and stay at Christmas Resort that truly enchant. Their storylines infuse the book with so much festivity and cheer; we may know where the story is headed, but their presence makes getting there all the more enjoyable. Not only is Ashcroft able to transport us so completely to the charming location of Christmas Resort (set in a village written with great warmth and care) that it feels like another important character in the story, she is also able to transport us to that almost indescribable holiday feeling of togetherness and cheer leaving the reader with nothing but hope and comfort for the season ahead. The saddest part of Christmas Secrets in the Scottish Highlands is turning the last page and saying goodbye.
This author continues to to be a reliable choice when it comes to picking up a story packed with all the trimmings of a holiday classic making it an easy recommendation to add to your holiday reading list for this reviewer.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the digital advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest thoughts and opinions.
The main characters of Holliday and Damon are written with ample amounts of heart making them an easy couple to root for, but it’s the cast of quirky characters who work and stay at Christmas Resort that truly enchant. Their storylines infuse the book with so much festivity and cheer; we may know where the story is headed, but their presence makes getting there all the more enjoyable. Not only is Ashcroft able to transport us so completely to the charming location of Christmas Resort (set in a village written with great warmth and care) that it feels like another important character in the story, she is also able to transport us to that almost indescribable holiday feeling of togetherness and cheer leaving the reader with nothing but hope and comfort for the season ahead. The saddest part of Christmas Secrets in the Scottish Highlands is turning the last page and saying goodbye.
This author continues to to be a reliable choice when it comes to picking up a story packed with all the trimmings of a holiday classic making it an easy recommendation to add to your holiday reading list for this reviewer.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the digital advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest thoughts and opinions.
May 23, 2024
I always enjoy Donna Ashcroft's books. They are written in such a way that makes them so cosy whatever the storyline is. I always feel like reading her books are like a warm hug and you feel like you're part of the story.
I really enjoyed the characters in this story and the will they, won't they aspect of relationships. It's romantic but also relatable in some places, the doubts that they each have and anxieties.
The whole book being centred around Christmas and festivities is another bonus. I absolutely love Christmas and considering it's only May I can clearly read a Christmas book any time of the year.
I really enjoyed the characters in this story and the will they, won't they aspect of relationships. It's romantic but also relatable in some places, the doubts that they each have and anxieties.
The whole book being centred around Christmas and festivities is another bonus. I absolutely love Christmas and considering it's only May I can clearly read a Christmas book any time of the year.
January 1, 2026
Bola to veľmi milá kniha s vianočnou tematikou. Tu sa tú atmosféru dalo cítiť na každej strane, za čo som bola rada.
Z knihy by kľudne mohli urobiť aj film, rada by som si ho pozrela 🥰
Hlavné postavy, Holliday a Damon, mali obaja za sebou ťažké životné etapy. Snažili sa dať svoje životy dokopy, začať odznova a zabudnúť na to zlé, čo ich v minulosti poznačilo. Páčilo sa mi, že ich vzťah sa vyvíjal postupne, prirodzene a bez zbytočného dramatizovania.
Celý príbeh bol o nádeji, druhých šanciach a o tom, že aj po ťažkých obdobiach si človek môže opäť nájsť cestu k šťastiu, najmä v čase Vianoc🎄
Z knihy by kľudne mohli urobiť aj film, rada by som si ho pozrela 🥰
Hlavné postavy, Holliday a Damon, mali obaja za sebou ťažké životné etapy. Snažili sa dať svoje životy dokopy, začať odznova a zabudnúť na to zlé, čo ich v minulosti poznačilo. Páčilo sa mi, že ich vzťah sa vyvíjal postupne, prirodzene a bez zbytočného dramatizovania.
Celý príbeh bol o nádeji, druhých šanciach a o tom, že aj po ťažkých obdobiach si človek môže opäť nájsť cestu k šťastiu, najmä v čase Vianoc🎄
December 29, 2025
There wasn’t anything in this book that made me feel like I was in the Scottish Highlands versus, say, Vermont, but it was a very enjoyable holiday romance.
October 19, 2023
***A big thank you to Bookouture and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC copy of this book.***
Enchanting, delightful, and utterly charming! 'Christmas Secrets in the Scottish Highlands' is the quintessential festive enemies-to-lovers tale, brimming with heart and soul. Nestled within the warm embrace of Christmas Resort, a place that effortlessly ignites the holiday spirit, lives change, memories are made, and snowflakes dance in the air.
Damon MacAndrew arrives with a mission to acquire the resort and usher in drastic changes, his own past visit having culminated in heartbreak. Across this snowy landscape, Holliday Harrison, who yearns to infuse the holiday cheer into her life after losing her fiancé years ago, finds solace in her work at Christmas Resort. She's determined to persuade Damon to preserve its cherished traditions.
As sleigh bells chime and snow blankets the landscape, the magnetic attraction between Holliday and Damon intensifies. Both are endearing characters, each bearing the weight of their pasts, each with their own reasons for being at the resort. Their paths intersect in a beautifully unexpected way, and their journeys of healing and love intertwine.
The setting of the book is a winter wonderland, replete with cozy cabins, crackling fireplaces, the scent of cinnamon, mugs of hot cocoa, snowflakes adorning the landscape, and an abundance of holiday cheer. Christmas Resort caters to all tastes, and the characters, especially the delightful Bonnibell, add a special charm to this enchanting world.
Romance is a transformative odyssey, and the individual and shared journeys of the characters in this heartwarming, festive tale are a joy to experience. 'Christmas Secrets in the Scottish Highlands' is a cozy, well-crafted, and utterly charming romance, a perfect companion for those moments curled up with a warm blanket and a cup of cocoa. It's a book that is beautifully penned, thoughtfully composed, and full of heart.
In summary, it's a brilliantly written, heartwarming, festive, and charming tale. Must READ!
Enchanting, delightful, and utterly charming! 'Christmas Secrets in the Scottish Highlands' is the quintessential festive enemies-to-lovers tale, brimming with heart and soul. Nestled within the warm embrace of Christmas Resort, a place that effortlessly ignites the holiday spirit, lives change, memories are made, and snowflakes dance in the air.
Damon MacAndrew arrives with a mission to acquire the resort and usher in drastic changes, his own past visit having culminated in heartbreak. Across this snowy landscape, Holliday Harrison, who yearns to infuse the holiday cheer into her life after losing her fiancé years ago, finds solace in her work at Christmas Resort. She's determined to persuade Damon to preserve its cherished traditions.
As sleigh bells chime and snow blankets the landscape, the magnetic attraction between Holliday and Damon intensifies. Both are endearing characters, each bearing the weight of their pasts, each with their own reasons for being at the resort. Their paths intersect in a beautifully unexpected way, and their journeys of healing and love intertwine.
The setting of the book is a winter wonderland, replete with cozy cabins, crackling fireplaces, the scent of cinnamon, mugs of hot cocoa, snowflakes adorning the landscape, and an abundance of holiday cheer. Christmas Resort caters to all tastes, and the characters, especially the delightful Bonnibell, add a special charm to this enchanting world.
Romance is a transformative odyssey, and the individual and shared journeys of the characters in this heartwarming, festive tale are a joy to experience. 'Christmas Secrets in the Scottish Highlands' is a cozy, well-crafted, and utterly charming romance, a perfect companion for those moments curled up with a warm blanket and a cup of cocoa. It's a book that is beautifully penned, thoughtfully composed, and full of heart.
In summary, it's a brilliantly written, heartwarming, festive, and charming tale. Must READ!
December 14, 2025
This was pretty boring...
Want to read
September 30, 2023rec from @pageturners.blog
September 22, 2023
Nothing like a holiday themed lodge to get into the spirit of the season. This is a light and cozy romance that follows an enemy to lovers type theme.
Holliday has been working at the lodge since her fiancee passed away 2 years previous and has been avoiding confronting the pain. Damon arrives wanting to buy the lodge and turn it into a fancy hotel because of his bad memories with his ex-wife. Can everyone convince him to keep the lodge as is? Holliday and the lodge start to grow on him.
I really liked the atmosphere of this book and all of the cute quirks from pom-poms to reindeer decorations. I think the surroundings were key for the budding romance between Holliday and Damon.
This book isn't all Christmas trees and candy canes, but digs into overcoming hurt and past relationships. I think the magic of the season helped bring out the past memories, but that made our characters have to confront them.
This is a sweet warm romance that is a good read to enjoy with a blanket and a cup of hot chocolate.
Thank you to Bookouture and Netgalley for providing me a copy of this ARC for my honest review.
Holliday has been working at the lodge since her fiancee passed away 2 years previous and has been avoiding confronting the pain. Damon arrives wanting to buy the lodge and turn it into a fancy hotel because of his bad memories with his ex-wife. Can everyone convince him to keep the lodge as is? Holliday and the lodge start to grow on him.
I really liked the atmosphere of this book and all of the cute quirks from pom-poms to reindeer decorations. I think the surroundings were key for the budding romance between Holliday and Damon.
This book isn't all Christmas trees and candy canes, but digs into overcoming hurt and past relationships. I think the magic of the season helped bring out the past memories, but that made our characters have to confront them.
This is a sweet warm romance that is a good read to enjoy with a blanket and a cup of hot chocolate.
Thank you to Bookouture and Netgalley for providing me a copy of this ARC for my honest review.
January 2, 2026
The third Christmas book about Christmas village. This book was very Christmassy and had many cute elements. I’d love to stay in a lodge over in Christmas village! Cute romantic story as well, not too typical.
December 21, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨️
Vianoce v škótskej dedinke sú krásnym vianočným príbehom, pri ktorého čítaní nebudete cítiť len horúcu čokoládu, škoricu a vianočné koláčiky ☕🍪, ale ocitnete sa priamo v škótskej dedinke zahalenej snehom, svetielkami a tichom zimných večerov ✨❄️. Okná žiariace teplým svetlom, mráz štípuci do líc a pocit domova, ktorý sa vám pomaly vkráda pod kožu. Je to kniha, ktorá vás zahreje, ale zároveň sa dotkne citlivých miest a pripomenie, že Vianoce nie sú len o radosti.
Hlavná postava Holliday vianočnú dedinku aj prácu v nej miluje, znamená pre ňu veľa – najmä pre to, čím všetkým si prešla a o čo prišla.🥹 Práve dedinka je pre ňu útočiskom, miestom, kde môže aspoň na chvíľu umlčať bolesť minulosti. Spomienky sú však stále prítomné a ona sa im snaží vyhýbať.
Damon je krásny mladý muž, potenciálny nový majiteľ dedinky, ktorému peniaze rozhodne nechýbajú, no chýba mu niečo oveľa dôležitejšie… Aj on zažil stratu a zradu a všetky spomienky chce zničiť, len aby mohol na všetko zlé zabudnúť – pokojne aj spolu s dedinkou. Pod chladným povrchom však cítiť praskliny, cez ktoré presakuje bolesť.
Obaja majú svoje dôvody prečo – ona, prečo dedinku udržať, on, prečo ju zrovnať so zemou. Ich životné osudy nie sú rozprávkové, skôr krehké ako jemné vianočné pečivo posypané cukrom – krásne, no stačí malý tlak a rozpadne sa 🎄💔.
Jedným z najkrajších momentov knihy pre mňa bolo, keď sa zamestnanci dedinky rozhodli zmeniť Damonov pohľad na toto miesto. Nie silou, nie hnevom, ale drobnými gestami, spomienkami, tradíciami a atmosférou Vianoc. Ich snaha zachrániť dedinku bola dojímavá, úprimná a plná nádeje ❤️.
Postupný vývoj postáv, spracovanie tráum a emócií je veľmi citlivé a prirodzené, a vedľajšie postavy som si okamžite zamilovala (až na Mairi, škoda, že nedostala viac priestoru, no chápem, cieľom knihy nie je čitateľa naštvať 😁).
Ide o hrejivý, dojímavý vianočný príbeh o strate, nádeji, odpustení a nových začiatkoch, ktorý sa číta jedným dychom.
Vianoce v škótskej dedinke sú krásnym vianočným príbehom, pri ktorého čítaní nebudete cítiť len horúcu čokoládu, škoricu a vianočné koláčiky ☕🍪, ale ocitnete sa priamo v škótskej dedinke zahalenej snehom, svetielkami a tichom zimných večerov ✨❄️. Okná žiariace teplým svetlom, mráz štípuci do líc a pocit domova, ktorý sa vám pomaly vkráda pod kožu. Je to kniha, ktorá vás zahreje, ale zároveň sa dotkne citlivých miest a pripomenie, že Vianoce nie sú len o radosti.
Hlavná postava Holliday vianočnú dedinku aj prácu v nej miluje, znamená pre ňu veľa – najmä pre to, čím všetkým si prešla a o čo prišla.🥹 Práve dedinka je pre ňu útočiskom, miestom, kde môže aspoň na chvíľu umlčať bolesť minulosti. Spomienky sú však stále prítomné a ona sa im snaží vyhýbať.
Damon je krásny mladý muž, potenciálny nový majiteľ dedinky, ktorému peniaze rozhodne nechýbajú, no chýba mu niečo oveľa dôležitejšie… Aj on zažil stratu a zradu a všetky spomienky chce zničiť, len aby mohol na všetko zlé zabudnúť – pokojne aj spolu s dedinkou. Pod chladným povrchom však cítiť praskliny, cez ktoré presakuje bolesť.
Obaja majú svoje dôvody prečo – ona, prečo dedinku udržať, on, prečo ju zrovnať so zemou. Ich životné osudy nie sú rozprávkové, skôr krehké ako jemné vianočné pečivo posypané cukrom – krásne, no stačí malý tlak a rozpadne sa 🎄💔.
Jedným z najkrajších momentov knihy pre mňa bolo, keď sa zamestnanci dedinky rozhodli zmeniť Damonov pohľad na toto miesto. Nie silou, nie hnevom, ale drobnými gestami, spomienkami, tradíciami a atmosférou Vianoc. Ich snaha zachrániť dedinku bola dojímavá, úprimná a plná nádeje ❤️.
Postupný vývoj postáv, spracovanie tráum a emócií je veľmi citlivé a prirodzené, a vedľajšie postavy som si okamžite zamilovala (až na Mairi, škoda, že nedostala viac priestoru, no chápem, cieľom knihy nie je čitateľa naštvať 😁).
Ide o hrejivý, dojímavý vianočný príbeh o strate, nádeji, odpustení a nových začiatkoch, ktorý sa číta jedným dychom.
November 30, 2025
Předvánoční romance mám ráda, i když bývají přeslazené. A dobře to vlastně fungovalo i v případě této knihy. První polovina působila jako příjemná zimní pohádka, lehká a kouzelná, přesně taková, kterou si člověk jednou do roka s chutí přečte. Jenže jakmile se začaly objevovat bambulky jako univerzální lék na emocionální potíže, začala moje trpělivost povážlivě kolísat. Terapeutickou funkci „měkkých, roztomilých bambulek“ jsem už vážně nedokázala brát vážně.
Co mě ale zarazilo víc než bambulková terapie, byla nečekaná erotická scéna. Ne proto, že by mi podobný obsah vadil, ale kvůli tomu, jak moc v tomhle žánru působila nepatřičně — jako by ji někdo vsadil do jinak nevinného příběhu jen proto, že „by tam něco takového mělo být“. Nepomohla zápletce, narušila jemný tón knihy a spíš než jako oživení, vyzněla rušivě. A pak se celý příběh začal tak nějak drolit: postavy ztrácely kouzlo, jejich chování začalo sklouzávat do patetična a kocour… upřímně, ještě se mi snad nestalo, aby mě zvíře v knize rozčilovalo, ale tady se to povedlo.
Celkově to na mě působilo, jako by autorka chtěla do jedné knihy vměstnat úplně všechno — roztomilost, drama, vánoční kouzlo, humor, romantiku i erotiku — a přitom se ztratila ta lehkost, která byla na začátku. Vím, že autorka tyto příběhy psát umí a některé její jiné příběhy mám opravdu ráda, ale tentokrát bylo na můj vkus všeho až příliš.
Co mě ale zarazilo víc než bambulková terapie, byla nečekaná erotická scéna. Ne proto, že by mi podobný obsah vadil, ale kvůli tomu, jak moc v tomhle žánru působila nepatřičně — jako by ji někdo vsadil do jinak nevinného příběhu jen proto, že „by tam něco takového mělo být“. Nepomohla zápletce, narušila jemný tón knihy a spíš než jako oživení, vyzněla rušivě. A pak se celý příběh začal tak nějak drolit: postavy ztrácely kouzlo, jejich chování začalo sklouzávat do patetična a kocour… upřímně, ještě se mi snad nestalo, aby mě zvíře v knize rozčilovalo, ale tady se to povedlo.
Celkově to na mě působilo, jako by autorka chtěla do jedné knihy vměstnat úplně všechno — roztomilost, drama, vánoční kouzlo, humor, romantiku i erotiku — a přitom se ztratila ta lehkost, která byla na začátku. Vím, že autorka tyto příběhy psát umí a některé její jiné příběhy mám opravdu ráda, ale tentokrát bylo na můj vkus všeho až příliš.
September 10, 2023
Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for a copy of "Christmas Secrets in the Scottish Highlands" in exchange for my honest opinion.
Set in Scotland at the Christmas Lodge - a resort where Christmas is celebrated every single day of the year. Guests at the Lodge get the full Christmas experience anytime of the year including decorations, gifts and a big dinner. Christmas biscuits and mince pies are always close at hand. The book is told in two persons - Holliday and Damon.
Holliday Harrison had been living and working at the Lodge since her fiancé Adrian Robinson was killed in a train crash two years ago. Some might say that she was hiding from life at the lodge where she had made many happy memories with Adrian.
The Lodge is up for sale and Damon MacAndrew arrives to look over what he plans to buy and raise to the ground. He's been to the Lodge before but instead of harbouring all the happy memories that guests and Holliday have, he resents the place and feels that if he eradicates the Lodge, his bad memories will go with it.
Holliday, Bonnibell, Connell, Innis and everyone at the Lodge have to figure out how to convince Damon not to destroy the Lodge and everyone's happy memories. Many of the guests return year after year to celebrate happy times. Their is great food, dancing lessons, arts & crafts, music.
Holliday has a fluffy white cat named Frosty who plays a fun part in the story. Reader's of Ms. Ashcroft's previous books will be delighted that Edina Lachlan and Bob her delightful donkey from "Christmas in the Scottish Highlands" make an appearance in this book as well.
Once everyone - staff and guests alike - realize that there is a healing power to the Christmas Resort, everything falls into place the way it was meant to be.
Set in Scotland at the Christmas Lodge - a resort where Christmas is celebrated every single day of the year. Guests at the Lodge get the full Christmas experience anytime of the year including decorations, gifts and a big dinner. Christmas biscuits and mince pies are always close at hand. The book is told in two persons - Holliday and Damon.
Holliday Harrison had been living and working at the Lodge since her fiancé Adrian Robinson was killed in a train crash two years ago. Some might say that she was hiding from life at the lodge where she had made many happy memories with Adrian.
The Lodge is up for sale and Damon MacAndrew arrives to look over what he plans to buy and raise to the ground. He's been to the Lodge before but instead of harbouring all the happy memories that guests and Holliday have, he resents the place and feels that if he eradicates the Lodge, his bad memories will go with it.
Holliday, Bonnibell, Connell, Innis and everyone at the Lodge have to figure out how to convince Damon not to destroy the Lodge and everyone's happy memories. Many of the guests return year after year to celebrate happy times. Their is great food, dancing lessons, arts & crafts, music.
Holliday has a fluffy white cat named Frosty who plays a fun part in the story. Reader's of Ms. Ashcroft's previous books will be delighted that Edina Lachlan and Bob her delightful donkey from "Christmas in the Scottish Highlands" make an appearance in this book as well.
Once everyone - staff and guests alike - realize that there is a healing power to the Christmas Resort, everything falls into place the way it was meant to be.
September 30, 2023
It’s been three years since Holliday Harrison lost her fiancé. She is working at Christmas Resort, and is jumping head first into the holiday season. Her plan is to sail through the holidays making sure she stays extremely busy. When Damon MacAndrew arrives at the resort he stays in one of the log cabins. He is business minded and has a hidden agenda, he wants to buy the resort and make some serious changes to it. Holly loves the Christmas Resort just the way it is, with its year round festivities, the last thing she wants is change. So she must do everything possible and derail Damon’s efforts to purchase the resort. The more time they spend together on sleigh rides, drinking hot cocoa and long walks in the snow, the closer they become. All the while the magic of Christmas is wafting in the cold winter air, Damon’s heart begins to melt, as he enjoys the spirit of Christmas.
Christmas Secrets in the Scottish Highlands written by author Donna Ashcroft, is a magical Christmas read that will launch you into the Christmas spirit. The wonderful detailed descriptions of the Christmas Resort and the sweet smells from the kitchen makes you feel like you are sitting by the fire in the resort’s living room. I was ready to go for a walk in the snow and pour a cup of hot cocoa. The twinkle lights are hung and the tree is standing tall with all its decorations. This wonderful escape to the Scottish Highlands at my favorite time of year was exactly what I needed. This lovely Christmas story is a must read for this holiday season, with lovable characters and beautiful scenery. I thoroughly enjoyed it and I highly recommend it.
Christmas Secrets in the Scottish Highlands written by author Donna Ashcroft, is a magical Christmas read that will launch you into the Christmas spirit. The wonderful detailed descriptions of the Christmas Resort and the sweet smells from the kitchen makes you feel like you are sitting by the fire in the resort’s living room. I was ready to go for a walk in the snow and pour a cup of hot cocoa. The twinkle lights are hung and the tree is standing tall with all its decorations. This wonderful escape to the Scottish Highlands at my favorite time of year was exactly what I needed. This lovely Christmas story is a must read for this holiday season, with lovable characters and beautiful scenery. I thoroughly enjoyed it and I highly recommend it.
December 29, 2023
Yes it is like a Hallmark Holiday movie in book form, all the tropes and a then some❤️💚❤️and I walked into the story with open arms. Sometimes you need the fairy lights and the fairytale. Yes I gave it 4 stars-is it the same weight as an Alice Hoffman or Barbara Kingsolver no. Does it deliver what it promised yes above and beyond with lots of sugar cookies, pies and gingerbread. So take the rating with a dose of eggnog🎄
November 1, 2023
I love books set in Scotland and Christmas is my favourite season. Who wouldn’t love to stay at The Christmas Resort where it’s Christmas all year round. Brimming full of all things Christmassy, this book gave me all the festive feels and a craving for mince pies and hot chocolate.
November 19, 2023
What a delightfully festive read! Where else could be more festive than the Christmas Resort in the Scottish Highlands! If you've read any of this author's previous books then you may remember visiting the little village of Christmas already, and you'll be re-introduced to some of its residents again! The Christmas Resort is Christmas all year round, and whilst to some it may sound way too early, you can't help but be drawn into the festive spirit. One person who hasn't been bitten by the Christmas bug however is Damon MacAndrew who is visiting with a view to buying the Christmas Resort!
This was a wonderful read and I really enjoyed returning to Christmas! I loved meeting Holliday Harrison who works at the resort and really liked her storyline. Damon MacAndrew is behaving very bah-humbug and carrying round some serious issues regarding his ex-wife but I found myself willing him to leave his baggage at the door and enter into the spirit of things. I loved the storyline where the staff are trying to show him what how special the Christmas Resort is, but if you think it's too early to even be thinking about Christmas, you'll think it was already here by the time you've finished reading this book it's that festive!
The storyline was lovely and flowed along at a great pace. I was well and truly hooked into Holliday and Damon's storylines only a few chapters in and I flew through the book faster than Ruldoph pulling Santa's sleigh! Whilst this story is Christmas wrapped up in a book, it can be read at any time and I've happily read it without a Christmas tree in sight! Filled with likeable and fun characters and more snow that you can shake a candy cane at, this was a fabulous read which I would definitely recommend!
This was a wonderful read and I really enjoyed returning to Christmas! I loved meeting Holliday Harrison who works at the resort and really liked her storyline. Damon MacAndrew is behaving very bah-humbug and carrying round some serious issues regarding his ex-wife but I found myself willing him to leave his baggage at the door and enter into the spirit of things. I loved the storyline where the staff are trying to show him what how special the Christmas Resort is, but if you think it's too early to even be thinking about Christmas, you'll think it was already here by the time you've finished reading this book it's that festive!
The storyline was lovely and flowed along at a great pace. I was well and truly hooked into Holliday and Damon's storylines only a few chapters in and I flew through the book faster than Ruldoph pulling Santa's sleigh! Whilst this story is Christmas wrapped up in a book, it can be read at any time and I've happily read it without a Christmas tree in sight! Filled with likeable and fun characters and more snow that you can shake a candy cane at, this was a fabulous read which I would definitely recommend!
December 7, 2024
Příběh hlavních postav je klasika jasná už z popisku, erotické pasáže už na mě nějak nepůsobí, ale stejně byl závěr - z hlediska vedlejších postav - doják. :)
December 8, 2025
2.5 stars
Was er niet kapot van omdat 1 ding heel duidelijk vanaf het begin was maar er zaten wel oké stukjes in
Was er niet kapot van omdat 1 ding heel duidelijk vanaf het begin was maar er zaten wel oké stukjes in
September 29, 2023
A wonderfully festive book that had me craving for mince pies and mulled wine. I loved the ‘enemies to friends’ journey of Holliday and Damon, the gorgeous setting and the wonderful cast of characters. It’s Christmas every day at the Christmas Resort and this book is full of loveliness and good cheer. But, despite their attraction to each other, Holliday and Damon have a shedload of heartache to get over and are both finding it difficult to move on from the past. Can Holliday show Damon some Christmas magic or will he go ahead with his plans for the Christmas Resort and break Holliday’s heart in the process?
November 27, 2024
Jestli teď uvidím slovo "bambulka", asi vyskočím z okna...
Tohle už byl moc kýč, Vánoce na skotském hradě byly mnohem lepší. Samé sladké, bambulky, oba hlavní hrdinové skoro na pěst a chovali se většinou jak malé děti.
Místo předvánoční romantické oddechovky tak dostanete přeslazenou jednohubku. Aspoň se to rychle čte.
Tohle už byl moc kýč, Vánoce na skotském hradě byly mnohem lepší. Samé sladké, bambulky, oba hlavní hrdinové skoro na pěst a chovali se většinou jak malé děti.
Místo předvánoční romantické oddechovky tak dostanete přeslazenou jednohubku. Aspoň se to rychle čte.
December 16, 2023
Donna Ashcroft certainly knows how to do a Christmas book and my god does she do it well. Christmas Secrets in the Scottish Highlands was an utter joy to delve into and I barely came up for air until I reached the final page. This wonderful story was packed full of festive fun along with a more serious message being explored. That being the theme of memories and the way we chose to deal with them on a day to day basis - do we avoid and destroy them or chose to celebrate and acknowledge them? I loved this strand that was running through the story and it certainly gave me plenty of food for thought as to how I deal with memories and in that sense I could really identify with the main female protagonist Holliday.
As well as this emotional and heartfelt theme which was developed and explored to perfection was the theme of Christmas and every little detail was thought of right down to Christmas tissues. I embraced every bit of Christmas throughout this story and yes there could have been a danger that there could have been a severe overload and it would have just become twee and just way over the top but thankfully the story never fell into this territory at all. In fact, I just wanted more and more as I was loving it all so much. Really, I don’t know how Donna was able to think of so much as just when you thought Christmas Village had revealed all that it had to offer then with a turn of a page there was more that the reader would never have even thought possible.
Holliday Harrison works in the Scottish Highlands at Christmas Resort which is located quite close to Christmas village which has previously featured in some of Donna’s books. But don’t worry if you haven’t read the previous books set here as there are only a few characters who make a brief reappearance and there are plenty of new characters who are introduced making this very much a stand alone novel full of glorious festivities and memories to be made. Holliday embraces all things Christmas and we soon discover it’s her method of trying to keep the memories of her fiancée alive. She lost him several years ago and still can’t move on from the fact that he is gone. Her connection to the resort prior to working there is touching and sentimental yet heart-breaking as is what she does with the house the couple shared together. Holliday is the resorts arts and entertainment manager and she relishes her role always providing the best experiences to the guests.
As I have mentioned up above every little detail is thought of when giving the guests the most magical Christmas holiday and I couldn’t get enough of the fabulous descriptions of the resort and the activities. Decorations, lights, mince pies, garlands, holly, mistletoe, gingerbread men, reindeer, Christmas trees, sleighs. I mean I could go on and on. Everything was just so amazing but I’ll leave you to discover what else the resort has to offer. Christmas Resort has been Holliday’s refuge. It’s a place where enduring memories for families are made and in small way it helps her though her grief whilst clinging to the memories and trying to Andrew alive even though he has gone from her life. But now that is threatened as the owner is selling up and Damon MacAndrew has bought it. What plans has he for it? Will it remain the same as it is although it is need of renovation in order for the magic to continue to be created.
Holliday avoids her feelings and tried to pretend that nothing has changed. By staying at the resort is she trying to remember Adrian and in doing so does his make her happier? She had carefully constructed a world around herself following her huge loss but is she just stuck in time fearful of moving on and in in doing so doing more damage than good? Her emotions are kept firmly locked inside instead of facing them and surely this will cause harm rather than tentatively stepping on the path to acceptance? This little world that she has created for herself may just very well about to come crashing down when a discovery is made that Damon has plans to completely change the resort and build a normal hotel. Can Holliday, Bonnibell and co work their magic and get Damon to change his mind? Can they make him see that Christmas is a valuable and worthwhile place which does so much for the community and the guests that visit? A plan is put into action and a fantastic story unfolds that keeps the reader rapidly turning the pages.
Damon arrives at the resort to get a sense of what he is buying into. He is handsome and catches Holliday’s eye but she can she really warm to someone who has their heart set of changing what has worked for years and means so much to so many? The reasons for Damon’s desire to change Christmas Resort quickly become evident and in one way I could understand where he was coming from as he was so hurt and angry but on the other hand he was being very dramatic and in a way very ruthless. Disloyalty and faithfulness are two very strong words in his mindset and he does seem to not want to be swayed. He keeps his plans private but a chance discovery by Innes, the housekeeper sets the cat amongst the pigeons. Damon needs to start living in the present instead of fixating on past hurts and Christmas Resort is the last place that needs to be eradicated and then he can move on. But he doesn’t bet on Holliday and co having a very different opinion from him and they are not prepared to let Christmas Resort become a part of people’s memories never to be relieved again. Damon initially came across as ruthless with a heart made of stone and I feared that Holliday wouldn’t be able to penetrate and melt the external wall of ice that he has surrounded himself with. As she sets about showing him how special and remarkable the resort is and all that it has to offer she firmly hopes that he can be persuaded to change his mind.
What follows is a gorgeous, delightful and satisfying story that will bring a smile to your face. Christmas Secrets in the Scottish Highlands was a pure piece of Christmas heaven and one of my Christmas reading highlights for 2023. It should come with a warning that you will not get any work done but at the same this is just the book you need to allow you to switch off from all the madness and preparations that ensue at this time of year. It’s a wonderful feel good read that will warm your heart and certainly have you all excited for Christmas no matter how early you read it - yes I am that person that starts their Christmas reading at the end of September/beginning of October. How could you not when there are so many fabulous Christmas books published each year?
It was evident that Donna Ashcroft was enjoying writing this entertaining and engaging story as it was infused with such warmth, humour and human understanding that I immediately fell in love with the characters, the theme and of course the amazing setting.The cover alone would make you want to pick up this book and take a trip to Christmas Resort. Make sure you do because I guarantee you won’t be one bit disappointed. I hope Donna has planned a return visit for next year as I would love to reunite with Holliday and co once again.
As well as this emotional and heartfelt theme which was developed and explored to perfection was the theme of Christmas and every little detail was thought of right down to Christmas tissues. I embraced every bit of Christmas throughout this story and yes there could have been a danger that there could have been a severe overload and it would have just become twee and just way over the top but thankfully the story never fell into this territory at all. In fact, I just wanted more and more as I was loving it all so much. Really, I don’t know how Donna was able to think of so much as just when you thought Christmas Village had revealed all that it had to offer then with a turn of a page there was more that the reader would never have even thought possible.
Holliday Harrison works in the Scottish Highlands at Christmas Resort which is located quite close to Christmas village which has previously featured in some of Donna’s books. But don’t worry if you haven’t read the previous books set here as there are only a few characters who make a brief reappearance and there are plenty of new characters who are introduced making this very much a stand alone novel full of glorious festivities and memories to be made. Holliday embraces all things Christmas and we soon discover it’s her method of trying to keep the memories of her fiancée alive. She lost him several years ago and still can’t move on from the fact that he is gone. Her connection to the resort prior to working there is touching and sentimental yet heart-breaking as is what she does with the house the couple shared together. Holliday is the resorts arts and entertainment manager and she relishes her role always providing the best experiences to the guests.
As I have mentioned up above every little detail is thought of when giving the guests the most magical Christmas holiday and I couldn’t get enough of the fabulous descriptions of the resort and the activities. Decorations, lights, mince pies, garlands, holly, mistletoe, gingerbread men, reindeer, Christmas trees, sleighs. I mean I could go on and on. Everything was just so amazing but I’ll leave you to discover what else the resort has to offer. Christmas Resort has been Holliday’s refuge. It’s a place where enduring memories for families are made and in small way it helps her though her grief whilst clinging to the memories and trying to Andrew alive even though he has gone from her life. But now that is threatened as the owner is selling up and Damon MacAndrew has bought it. What plans has he for it? Will it remain the same as it is although it is need of renovation in order for the magic to continue to be created.
Holliday avoids her feelings and tried to pretend that nothing has changed. By staying at the resort is she trying to remember Adrian and in doing so does his make her happier? She had carefully constructed a world around herself following her huge loss but is she just stuck in time fearful of moving on and in in doing so doing more damage than good? Her emotions are kept firmly locked inside instead of facing them and surely this will cause harm rather than tentatively stepping on the path to acceptance? This little world that she has created for herself may just very well about to come crashing down when a discovery is made that Damon has plans to completely change the resort and build a normal hotel. Can Holliday, Bonnibell and co work their magic and get Damon to change his mind? Can they make him see that Christmas is a valuable and worthwhile place which does so much for the community and the guests that visit? A plan is put into action and a fantastic story unfolds that keeps the reader rapidly turning the pages.
Damon arrives at the resort to get a sense of what he is buying into. He is handsome and catches Holliday’s eye but she can she really warm to someone who has their heart set of changing what has worked for years and means so much to so many? The reasons for Damon’s desire to change Christmas Resort quickly become evident and in one way I could understand where he was coming from as he was so hurt and angry but on the other hand he was being very dramatic and in a way very ruthless. Disloyalty and faithfulness are two very strong words in his mindset and he does seem to not want to be swayed. He keeps his plans private but a chance discovery by Innes, the housekeeper sets the cat amongst the pigeons. Damon needs to start living in the present instead of fixating on past hurts and Christmas Resort is the last place that needs to be eradicated and then he can move on. But he doesn’t bet on Holliday and co having a very different opinion from him and they are not prepared to let Christmas Resort become a part of people’s memories never to be relieved again. Damon initially came across as ruthless with a heart made of stone and I feared that Holliday wouldn’t be able to penetrate and melt the external wall of ice that he has surrounded himself with. As she sets about showing him how special and remarkable the resort is and all that it has to offer she firmly hopes that he can be persuaded to change his mind.
What follows is a gorgeous, delightful and satisfying story that will bring a smile to your face. Christmas Secrets in the Scottish Highlands was a pure piece of Christmas heaven and one of my Christmas reading highlights for 2023. It should come with a warning that you will not get any work done but at the same this is just the book you need to allow you to switch off from all the madness and preparations that ensue at this time of year. It’s a wonderful feel good read that will warm your heart and certainly have you all excited for Christmas no matter how early you read it - yes I am that person that starts their Christmas reading at the end of September/beginning of October. How could you not when there are so many fabulous Christmas books published each year?
It was evident that Donna Ashcroft was enjoying writing this entertaining and engaging story as it was infused with such warmth, humour and human understanding that I immediately fell in love with the characters, the theme and of course the amazing setting.The cover alone would make you want to pick up this book and take a trip to Christmas Resort. Make sure you do because I guarantee you won’t be one bit disappointed. I hope Donna has planned a return visit for next year as I would love to reunite with Holliday and co once again.
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