Where Light Stays

by Quintana McConnell

Some places hold more than our past.

They hold the future we never imagined.



Gracie Buchanan, a florist in Edinburgh, has never truly left the Highland village she grew up in. Her mother’s death still lingers heavy on her heart. But when she’s asked to assist with an archival project alongside Fletcher McCullough—a guarded historian shaped by a childhood he rarely speaks of—Gracie finds herself drawn into a deeper reckoning.



Their research unearths more than forgotten family legacies; it stirs questions of belonging, emotional inheritance, and the kind of connection that doesn’t fade with time or distance. Gracie must decide whether to stay rooted in the life she’s built or return to the place that still feels like home. Fletcher, long accustomed to cataloging the past and keeping the present at arm’s length, must choose whether to step into the light Gracie offers—or remain in the shadows that have always felt safer.

303 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 11, 2025

Reviews

[Ally Loves To Read · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC review:

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

First I want to thank the author for sending me her ARC of Where Light Stays, it was a really good read!

I loved how it was based in Scotland & about Scotland history, legacy. The writing was lyrical & super poised, it felt like I was reading poetry. I really enjoyed the story, the plot & the finish. I also appreciated it being a no spice read.

If you love Scotland, history, romance, found family, friendship, road trips, & overall a clean, sweet, meaningful read, then this book is perfect for you!

[Ifeanyi Omoike · Rating 3 out of 5]

This story had so much potential, but it didn’t quite land for me the way I’d hoped. The pacing felt slow at times, and the frequent head-hopping occasionally made it difficult to stay grounded in one perspective. Although the plot carried threads of suspense, the emotional impact was softened by the story’s slower rhythm.

The characters—especially Grace, who was gentle and kind—were easy to root for, but they didn’t linger in my mind the way I wished they would. The romance, while sweet, developed at an uneven pace: their feelings deepened very quickly, yet the middle stretch of their relationship felt drawn out, making it harder to stay fully invested.

Still, I genuinely appreciated the heart of the story and the undercurrent of healing that ran through it. I loved how both protagonists carried their own scars and found restoration through love and connection. And the Scottish setting was absolutely gorgeous—it lent the book a quiet, soulful charm that stayed with me.

While it wasn’t a favorite, I admired the tenderness behind it and the way it explored love, loss, and redemption with sincerity and hope.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Casey · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC Review✨

This story was absolutely beautiful—a heartfelt journey of self-discovery, gentle healing, family bonds, found family, history, and my personal fav, unexpected love.

This was a perfect read for me this week. Cool temps, misty & rainy. I read this book in a few days cozied up on my couch with my blanket, candles lit, and a glass of red wine in hand. It was magical. Summoning the fall and winter.

I love how the author describes the Scottish Highlands, along with the sprinkles of the Scottish language throughout the book. I made me feel like I was there—I could almost hear the accents and see the rolling hills.

I’ll also be keeping my fingers crossed for an audiobook—I would love the chance to hear Gracie & Fletcher’s accents come to life!

*Thank you to the author Quintana McConnell, for the ARC copy.*

Girl- let me know if you do a audiobook on this. Imma need that STAT.💓

[Chelsea · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC READ: I had the privilege and honor to read this book as an arc reader and it was everything I wanted it to be and more. After reading When the Tides Meet, I didn’t think Quintana would top that story with her next book but boy was I wrong. I am pretty sure I went through every emotion while reading this book. I don’t often read romance without spice so it was nice to have a palette cleanser to show me that sometimes a story can be sweet and wholesome rather than vulgar and explicit. I still love my smutty books but Quintana is definitely who I am going to go to when I want a beautiful layered love story with some amazing side characters. Not going to spoil the book, but the descriptions for Gracie and Fletcher were amazing, and so beautifully written. It’s a great read for those who love a slow burn and Taylor swift, because Quintana managed to include some fantastic references to Taylor and her idea of a love. This book is 5/5 for me, especially because it’s a Happy ever after and it has a lovely epilogue that wraps the whole story up nicely. I can’t wait to see what else Quintana writes!!!

[Harlie · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC read!

This was a heartbreaking but also heartwarming story that unfolds in the beautifully described Scottish Highlands.

I felt fully immersed in the storyline, and the way Quintana wrote details to set the scene made me actually feel like I was there!

Gracie, a florist, grew up in Scotland with her family on their farm in the Highlands. She moved to Edinburgh to build her flower shop and dreams.

Fletcher, a historian, originally from rural Pennsylvania but dropped his boots in Scotland with his best friend as an experiment. He ended up opening his own coffee/tea shop with a whiskey tasting room as a side venture on top of his regular historian job.

We watch their love bloom, grow, kind of splutter for a few chapters, then come back again in full force with a HEA.

A great closed door romance that slowly builds with so much information and history packed within. We learn so much about their families pasts, and how that still affects those in the present.

Quintana did it again with another great romance book! 💜

[Kerstin Glenn · Rating 5 out of 5]

The first thing I noticed when I started this book was the style the author writes in. It felt like I jumped into a poetry book with the key to unlock all the meaning behind it. It’s beautifully written and woven with a deep history of Scotland. The historical background isn’t just there for fun, it’s highlighted in a melodic way that makes you yearn for a life in the highlands.

It leaves you with a feeling that’s like reading on your front porch in the middle of fall with a cup of coffee in hand, when the air feels clean and crisp and it’s not too hot. The leaves have changed but haven’t fallen yet, and everyone is excited for the holidays.

The only note I have was that the pacing was a bit wonky, the romance started strong and the characters fell fast but then it dragged a bit until the end. It’s a dual POV, so if that’s not something you’re into just be aware.

Over all, I loved it and will absolutely be picking up a physical copy for my bookshelf (especially with the new cover!)

[Chrissytina Marie · Rating 4 out of 5]

***ARC REVIEW***

Star rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Spice rating: 🫑

Fletcher is a historian from the US who’s researching the Scottish Clearances in Edinburgh. After his dog causes him to unexpectedly meet florist Gracie, he asks her for personal insight to help elevate his research. They soon find out their own histories are intertwined more than they could have ever imagined. But, Fletcher needs to let his past go if he wants to build a future with Gracie.

This was such a heartfelt clean romance. The characters had a lot of depth to them. Their back stories were unique but equally compelling.

I loved the way the author portrayed Fletcher’s grumpy persona. It wasn’t just angry. It was aloof, anxious, sad, and more. Such a lovely blend of emotions that most romance authors choose not to add to their “grumpy” MCs. Similarly, Gracie’s sunshine personality wasn’t just puppies and rainbows. She was actively trying to find the good despite the sadness around her.

Beyond wonderful character development, I also enjoyed the historical mystery plot and the author’s use of lyrical prose. Definitely a good cozy romance for the cold months of the year.

[Cassi Sweet · Rating 4 out of 5]

*ARC Review*
4.25 ⭐️

This book was definitely a closed-door slow burn, but it was so well written, it definitely didn't need the off-the-wall spice. The plot was easy to follow and kept my attention the entire time. I will admit, it took a few chapters to pick up, but it was well worth riding out the whiskey waves if you will. 😉

The journey that the MMC and the FMC went on was such a cozy experience! It really took you along with them and their friends as they learned their family history while realizing who they were themselves and what they meant to each other. 

Quintana McConnell is one of the authors to watch out for! She is going to take the world by storm. I'm calling it now!

"You are not broken. You are a mosaic. And I want every piece of you." - Fletcher 💜

[Chel (chel.chapters) · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 Stars

Thank you to Quintana McConnell for an advanced copy of her book!

Where Light Stays is a beautifully atmospheric novel set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Scottish Highlands. This slow-burn romance weaves together themes of family, long-buried secrets, and the healing power of love. I especially enjoyed the sense of discovery as the past met the present, and the vivid setting pulled me right into the story. That said, the pacing felt too slow for my taste at times, which kept me from fully immersing myself. Still, readers who enjoy reflective, slow-building romances with a touch of mystery will likely find this a rewarding read.

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

Where the Light Stays is more than a contemporary story; it’s layered with a rich historical thread that builds the heart of the narrative. The background information doesn’t just sit behind the characters — it actively tells the story of the family line, showing how past generations shape the present. I appreciated how the archival research wasn’t just a plot device, but a meaningful way to uncover family legacies, belonging, and the deeper emotional inheritance carried forward. The historical detail was both information-packed and intentional, and it made the ultimate goal of their research feel necessary and powerful.

[Nathalie DeSousa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love when books read with prose, and this is one of those books. The cadence of the writing mixes beautiful with the description of the highlands which in turn brings a sense of longing to the story of Gracie and FLetcher.

He is a professor doing research in Scotland, he is not grumpy per se, but likes his ways, Gracie is a florist who looks for the best in everyone despite her sadness, As he asks for her assistance in his project they will embark in a journey of self discovery, a bit of mystery, and a love story,


You have to read this book!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Jacquelyn Clemmer · Rating 4 out of 5]

*ARC review.* This was a fun quick read. The characters were real and I truly enjoyed them and their story. The only thing I struggled with was how upset everyone got about children being put up for adoption generations ago. I think it is only because it is not something I have experienced and had a hard time relating to. Otherwise, the romance and history aspect were lovely. The way the author describes feelings, and scenery really pulled me in. Needless to say I will continue to read this authors books! You should too!

[Meg O'Hara · Rating 4 out of 5]

*Beta Reader Review*
This is a lovely tale of self-discovery, healing through softening, exploring family experiences, found family, history, unexpected love, and the list continues. This sweet tale is an awesome cozy option for a rainy day snuggled up with your blanket and a tea. It made me want to go to Scotland ASAP. I loved our main characters AND their friends (totally pulling for a follow on book here)! Add this one to your Autumn TBR.

[Hope Spears · Rating 5 out of 5]

I did not want to put this book down. I loved how much each of the characters learned about themselves, as well as each other. This author did an amazing job of taking you on the journey with the characters. I was so invested. I was sad when it ended. This was my first read from this author, but it will not be my last.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Philip Shuster · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book in the Beneath Whiskey Waves series is every bit as intriguing as the first novel written by this wonderful new author. She has the amazing ability to keep you attached to each character that comes on the scene, making you feel that you are right there with them. I would say to keep your eyes open for more incredible stories coming from this emotionally authentic author named Quintana McConnell. 👍

[Ashley Sutton · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC review- This was such an easy read and was hard to put down! I loved how it was not only pulling in historical aspects but also weaving it together with the relationship/ love story of the characters! I loved being able to see their personal growth as they (unknowingly at times) helped each other through their struggles.

[Sarah Guthrie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an amazing piece of literary fiction. Quintana’s writing is beautiful and poetic, with a tone of sadness and longed for nostalgia. The theme of nostalgia is carried through the story, as well, as our characters discover a complicated and intertwined family past. This was an achingly and beautiful heartfelt story.

[Stephanie Frymire · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’m so honored I got to read this as an arc. This book is so beautiful. It’s one you should cuddle up in a cozy spot and read. The love story is so sweet. I loved the detail on every characters emotions. I did get a little confused in some details of family history. But that may be just me. I loved this story and you should read it!

[Ana · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely an amazing read. A beautiful story of healing, found family, family discoveries, so much history, and so much more. When these 2 go on to find the story that someone put away, the discover not only family history, but things about themselves they didnt know. The story, the main characters and friend, the history they discover it all makes you want to continue reading more

[Claire Shelton · Rating 5 out of 5]

I devoured this book! It was my first Scottish romance, and I loved all of the descriptions of both big city and small town life. Having the MMC be a historian was something I thought wasn’t going to be relatable to me, but I was pleasantly surprised. He’s a little grumpy, a lot protective, and so sweet. The mystery/ history unfolding aspect made me want to read even faster!.

[Holly · Rating 4 out of 5]

A beautiful story of healing ,family and much more.
Discovering not only family history, but things about themselves.
Wonderful storyline flows smoothly and was keeping my interest.
Slow burn ,clean romance.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Stephanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

*ARC review*
It took me two days to finish this book and it was absolutely beautiful. I loved the description of Scotland and felt fully immersed in the story. The characters were beautiful in their own way and I couldn’t wait for more! This story was a wonderful tale of self-discovery.

[Valerie Dickey · Rating 5 out of 5]

💐ARC Review💐 a very beautifully written cozy read. From start to finish I was hooked. I can’t wait for it to be released as an audiobook cause your girl loves a Scottish accent. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to read this. I love it so much.

[Lisa Lawson · Rating 3 out of 5]

It felt like I was in a Hallmark movie in the highlands! It was a wholesome story of adventure, family history, and self-discovery. Most of the story felt like it dragged, but I enjoyed it nonetheless!

[Abigail Foster · Rating 4 out of 5]

Arc Reader!


Beautifully told story really hard to put down!

[Noreen Bennett · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a love story with a gentle side.
It is Gracie and Fletcher's story about looking back at ancestors and feeling like you know them.

[Kristen · Rating 5 out of 5]

such a great book! i loved the story and the characters and everything about it couldn’t put it down.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[T.S. Night · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a lovely story! Each scene is detailed beautifully. The characters are kind and you find yourself cheering for them. It's a great clean book.

[Dorinda Wharff · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great fall read! I ARC read this book!! It was so good!! Was a page turner for me from the very beginning! I loved the banter between the characters!! Great story line!! I would definitely recommend this book! 📕.

[SheaLeigh Wooten · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a beautifully written story of love, self discovery, and family history. The author did a good job describing the Scottish Highlands, which made me want to be there! This was a quick read and perfect for days leading into fall.