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Kilts and Quilts #6
It Happened in Scotland
From the author of The Trouble With Scotland—a charming new romance set in the beautiful Scottish Highlands.
Christmas in the sleepy Scottish fishing village of Gandiegow this year is a time for quilting, patching up broken hearts, and rekindling an old flame...
After pulling herself out of a three-year fog of grief over the loss of her husband, Joe, Rachel is bringing their five-year-old daughter to see his hometown of Gandiegow and visit with his grandfather. But Rachel wasn’t planning on running into Joe’s cousin, the man who made her have second thoughts at the altar...
Brodie has come home to help his grandfather’s fishing business, but he’d prefer not to see Rachel. Although she did break his heart six years ago, the grip she has on him hasn’t faltered. If they can stop butting heads long enough and learn to overcome the past, they may find new love in the new year...
Christmas in the sleepy Scottish fishing village of Gandiegow this year is a time for quilting, patching up broken hearts, and rekindling an old flame...
After pulling herself out of a three-year fog of grief over the loss of her husband, Joe, Rachel is bringing their five-year-old daughter to see his hometown of Gandiegow and visit with his grandfather. But Rachel wasn’t planning on running into Joe’s cousin, the man who made her have second thoughts at the altar...
Brodie has come home to help his grandfather’s fishing business, but he’d prefer not to see Rachel. Although she did break his heart six years ago, the grip she has on him hasn’t faltered. If they can stop butting heads long enough and learn to overcome the past, they may find new love in the new year...
379 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 3, 2017
117 people are currently reading
1248 people want to read
About the author
Patience Griffin
18 books691 followersAward-winning author Patience Griffin has been writing and sewing her whole life but didn’t discover her love of quilting until her late thirties. She decided the best way to acquire her first quilt was to make one for herself. At nearly the same time, she started commuting three and half hours a day for her dream engineering job. To pass the time on the long drive, she got hooked on audiobooks—especially books with love stories.
Within a couple of years, she was writing stories of her own. It was no surprise to her family and friends when she combined her love of quilting, her small town roots, and her obsession with Scottish romances into novels.
She has gained some recognition with her September 11th Story Quilt which has toured the country as the property of the Pentagon. She has a master's degree in nuclear engineering but spends her days writing stories about hearth and home, and dreaming about the fictional small town of Gandiegow, Scotland.
Within a couple of years, she was writing stories of her own. It was no surprise to her family and friends when she combined her love of quilting, her small town roots, and her obsession with Scottish romances into novels.
She has gained some recognition with her September 11th Story Quilt which has toured the country as the property of the Pentagon. She has a master's degree in nuclear engineering but spends her days writing stories about hearth and home, and dreaming about the fictional small town of Gandiegow, Scotland.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 91 reviews
January 27, 2017
review originally posted on http://www.joyfullyreviewed.net/revie...
December 7, 2020
4 stelle e mezza
Altra bella storia ambientata fra pescatori e quilters in Scozia. È piacevole ritrovare le coppie dei libri precedenti anche se la storia che ricordo meglio è forse la prima.
Altra bella storia ambientata fra pescatori e quilters in Scozia. È piacevole ritrovare le coppie dei libri precedenti anche se la storia che ricordo meglio è forse la prima.
January 3, 2017
Don't cry because it's over. Smile because it happened. - Dr. Seuss
Rachel is hesitant to return to Gandiegow, Scotland, but does so for the sake of her daughter. It does take long for Rachel to bump into her husband's cousin - the one man who took her breath away on her own wedding day. Still, it was important for Rachel to bring her daughter to the Scottish fishing village so she could meet her paternal relatives. Fate gives Rachel the opportunity to not only relive the painful memories of her wedding day but follow her heart for everlasting love.
IT HAPPENED IN SCOTLAND is a second chance romance embedded in small town romance topped with Scottish culture and quilting metaphors. IT HAPPENED IN SCOTLAND is Book Six in Griffin's Kilts and Quilts series - characters from previous novel contribute to the fishing village's second industry, the quilting retreat. While I am not quilter, I appreciated how the quilting squares - representing each villager - are sewn together for a strong community and a compelling read.. Griffin has a knack for creating "comforting" romances akin to snuggling under a handmade quilt.
Likewise, Griffin offers the escape to Scotland. Sigh. Alba.
IT HAPPENED IN SCOTLAND was published on January 3, 2017, by Berkley, making it the first keeper of the new year.
Rachel is hesitant to return to Gandiegow, Scotland, but does so for the sake of her daughter. It does take long for Rachel to bump into her husband's cousin - the one man who took her breath away on her own wedding day. Still, it was important for Rachel to bring her daughter to the Scottish fishing village so she could meet her paternal relatives. Fate gives Rachel the opportunity to not only relive the painful memories of her wedding day but follow her heart for everlasting love.
IT HAPPENED IN SCOTLAND is a second chance romance embedded in small town romance topped with Scottish culture and quilting metaphors. IT HAPPENED IN SCOTLAND is Book Six in Griffin's Kilts and Quilts series - characters from previous novel contribute to the fishing village's second industry, the quilting retreat. While I am not quilter, I appreciated how the quilting squares - representing each villager - are sewn together for a strong community and a compelling read.. Griffin has a knack for creating "comforting" romances akin to snuggling under a handmade quilt.
Likewise, Griffin offers the escape to Scotland. Sigh. Alba.
IT HAPPENED IN SCOTLAND was published on January 3, 2017, by Berkley, making it the first keeper of the new year.
January 3, 2017
Amanda's review:
4.5 stars
It Happened in Scotland is a story that is about forgiveness and second chances. Rachel has planned a trip back to Gandiegow in order for her young daughter Hannah meets the great-grandfather she has and to see the place her deceased father is from. She wasn’t counting on meeting the one man she loves and let get away when she married his cousin 6 years ago. Brodie can’t believe his eyes that she has the nerve to return after she crushed his heart. Woman aren’t to be trusted he’s been told over and over again. He’s not going to let it happen again. But does he have a choice in the matter?
Second chance stories is a favorite trope of mine because there is hope of love reigniting again even in the most impossible situations. Years ago Rachel came to Scotland to marry Joe but ended up falling for his cousin Brodie. She went ahead with the wedding and regrets the decision. Now she’s back and being here gives her the confidence to try for a second chance at the one that got away. Her resolve and the love of her daughter got her through some rough times and she thinks she can have it all with Brodie if he can forgive her. Her attempts are good but his heart doesn’t soften and she knows she needs to let it go. However, being in Gandiegow has shown her that she can have a good life here with Hannah and makes plans to stay. I liked Rachel because she had a backbone and went after what she wanted and knew when to quit. She’s an older and wiser woman now than she was 6 years ago and finally voices what she wants with her mother and with herself.
Brodie is a very stubborn man and has taken it to a whole new level now that Rachel is back. It doesn’t help that he has had a standoffish relationship with his own mother for years after the death of his father. He is in conflict with his belief that all women can’t be trusted, and what his heart and body wants when he is close to Rachel. Once his grandfather and mother enlighten him with new information, he sees things differently. His stubbornness has caused him to miss years with his mother and also a second chance with the woman he has always loved. Not only does he learn forgiveness from his relations but for himself as well. He also can take responsibility for his own situation and not wholly blame Rachel.
I love this tiny, charming village of Gandiegow and all its inhabitants. With each new story in the Kilts and Quilts series it has slowly become one of my favorites to read. There are also a few side stories that are woven throughout and enrich the main story and move their story forward. It is also good seeing new developments with some of the other characters that were first introduced in previous books. The author has definitely created unique and sometimes quirky characters and has a genuine read on the human emotion of both the men and women and what lies in their heart. Patience Griffin has created a quaint place in Scotland and I have fallen in love all over again.
Review copy provided with no expectations.
4.5 stars
It Happened in Scotland is a story that is about forgiveness and second chances. Rachel has planned a trip back to Gandiegow in order for her young daughter Hannah meets the great-grandfather she has and to see the place her deceased father is from. She wasn’t counting on meeting the one man she loves and let get away when she married his cousin 6 years ago. Brodie can’t believe his eyes that she has the nerve to return after she crushed his heart. Woman aren’t to be trusted he’s been told over and over again. He’s not going to let it happen again. But does he have a choice in the matter?
Second chance stories is a favorite trope of mine because there is hope of love reigniting again even in the most impossible situations. Years ago Rachel came to Scotland to marry Joe but ended up falling for his cousin Brodie. She went ahead with the wedding and regrets the decision. Now she’s back and being here gives her the confidence to try for a second chance at the one that got away. Her resolve and the love of her daughter got her through some rough times and she thinks she can have it all with Brodie if he can forgive her. Her attempts are good but his heart doesn’t soften and she knows she needs to let it go. However, being in Gandiegow has shown her that she can have a good life here with Hannah and makes plans to stay. I liked Rachel because she had a backbone and went after what she wanted and knew when to quit. She’s an older and wiser woman now than she was 6 years ago and finally voices what she wants with her mother and with herself.
Brodie is a very stubborn man and has taken it to a whole new level now that Rachel is back. It doesn’t help that he has had a standoffish relationship with his own mother for years after the death of his father. He is in conflict with his belief that all women can’t be trusted, and what his heart and body wants when he is close to Rachel. Once his grandfather and mother enlighten him with new information, he sees things differently. His stubbornness has caused him to miss years with his mother and also a second chance with the woman he has always loved. Not only does he learn forgiveness from his relations but for himself as well. He also can take responsibility for his own situation and not wholly blame Rachel.
I love this tiny, charming village of Gandiegow and all its inhabitants. With each new story in the Kilts and Quilts series it has slowly become one of my favorites to read. There are also a few side stories that are woven throughout and enrich the main story and move their story forward. It is also good seeing new developments with some of the other characters that were first introduced in previous books. The author has definitely created unique and sometimes quirky characters and has a genuine read on the human emotion of both the men and women and what lies in their heart. Patience Griffin has created a quaint place in Scotland and I have fallen in love all over again.
Review copy provided with no expectations.
February 8, 2017
Patience has done it again and has given another great book in a feel good series. I fell in love with little Hannah from the first time she stepped onto the page. It was funny to watch how she had the adults wrapped around her little finger. As they say out of the mouth of babes. I felt so bad for Rachel as she deserved so much more than what Joe gave her before he passed. He was a real piece of work. Then you had Brodie who wanted nothing more to be happy but had too much guilt in his heart. All for things he should not have felt guilty for. There were also side stories of some of our favorite residents of Gandiegow. It is so much fun visiting this town and seeing what is happening with everyone. The town of Gandigow that the author has created just makes you want to pack up and move to Scotland asap. There was just a hint of a mystery in this book part of which was solved and part of which was not. I have read this entire series in the last six months or so and will feel lonely without them to keep me company. I can't wait to read the next book in this series.
December 24, 2016
Being my first Patience Griffin book, I wasn't sure what to expect. I'm not a quilter, and sometimes quilt-themed stories can get so into the weeds of the quilting process that my eyes glaze and I lose interest quickly.
That did not happen here.
Quilting wasn't the central theme, but I did appreciate how it tied in seamlessly with the story elements. I wasn't worried about the various terms used in quilting, or the types of fabric, or any of the myriad things that quilters love to talk about. Instead, I was presented with a lovely story of two souls who were meant to be together.
Rachel is a widow, returning to Scotland so her daughter can visit her father's family. It's actually quite brave of her, as the last time Rachel was in Scotland, the town didn't give her a very warm reception. Rachel ends up falling in love with Gandiegow, and its residents fall in love with her and her daughter. But she also harbors a secret: She was in love with another man when she wed her husband. She understands she should've called off the wedding, but backing out was socially unacceptable to her mother, so, caving to pressure, she went through with it. And therein lies the problem - no one knows her marriage was a sham, for many different reasons.
Brodie is a surly, moody Scot. Griffin really gave him a chip on his shoulder, and he stubbornly carried it throughout the novel. He was obtuse and ridiculous, but he ADMITTED he was obtuse and ridiculous, and he also recognized that he should let his anger go...but he's simply unable. And that's the true mark of stubbornness, in my opinion. He works hard to change himself, but it's slow going, and his redemption is worth the wait.
*I received an eARC copy of this title from the publisher in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.*
That did not happen here.
Quilting wasn't the central theme, but I did appreciate how it tied in seamlessly with the story elements. I wasn't worried about the various terms used in quilting, or the types of fabric, or any of the myriad things that quilters love to talk about. Instead, I was presented with a lovely story of two souls who were meant to be together.
Rachel is a widow, returning to Scotland so her daughter can visit her father's family. It's actually quite brave of her, as the last time Rachel was in Scotland, the town didn't give her a very warm reception. Rachel ends up falling in love with Gandiegow, and its residents fall in love with her and her daughter. But she also harbors a secret: She was in love with another man when she wed her husband. She understands she should've called off the wedding, but backing out was socially unacceptable to her mother, so, caving to pressure, she went through with it. And therein lies the problem - no one knows her marriage was a sham, for many different reasons.
Brodie is a surly, moody Scot. Griffin really gave him a chip on his shoulder, and he stubbornly carried it throughout the novel. He was obtuse and ridiculous, but he ADMITTED he was obtuse and ridiculous, and he also recognized that he should let his anger go...but he's simply unable. And that's the true mark of stubbornness, in my opinion. He works hard to change himself, but it's slow going, and his redemption is worth the wait.
*I received an eARC copy of this title from the publisher in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.*
December 31, 2016
If you don’t already know I absolutely love this series! Each one it just gives you those warm fuzzy feeling! I don’t read a lot of contemporary romances but there is just something about this small town in Scotland that gives me all the feels.
This one was perfect for this time of the year because it starts out at Christmas time. Bringing her daughter to meet her grandfather gives Rachel a chance to try and make things right between her and Brody, the man she really loves, but ended up marrying his cousin. I really liked Rachel, but I didn’t blame Brody for really making it hard on her. To be jilted like he was and then have her come back and just think now that Joe is dead they can just start a nice life. Brody was burned bad by her and he distrust her. I really liked Brody.
One thing I really love about this series is that you get to follow the lives of characters from the past novels as well. Also in this one, there are a couple of side characters who find love as well which was sweet. I am sure you could probably read these as stand alone’s but I think you would get more out of them if you read them in order and get to know all the characters from beginning to end.
This one was perfect for this time of the year because it starts out at Christmas time. Bringing her daughter to meet her grandfather gives Rachel a chance to try and make things right between her and Brody, the man she really loves, but ended up marrying his cousin. I really liked Rachel, but I didn’t blame Brody for really making it hard on her. To be jilted like he was and then have her come back and just think now that Joe is dead they can just start a nice life. Brody was burned bad by her and he distrust her. I really liked Brody.
One thing I really love about this series is that you get to follow the lives of characters from the past novels as well. Also in this one, there are a couple of side characters who find love as well which was sweet. I am sure you could probably read these as stand alone’s but I think you would get more out of them if you read them in order and get to know all the characters from beginning to end.
January 1, 2017
I was looking for a book to read and review and I found this one. I love Scotland and as I won't get there I decided I would jump into this book. Patience is also a new author. I like Scotland and their people will argue forever but if there is trouble they drop what they are doing, join in and help. Rachael, is a widow with a daughter, Hannah. She is a whirlwind! They came to Gandiegow so Hannah can meet her Scottish relatives. She meets Abraham, her great grandfather, who is gruff but she games him. Then in comes Brodie,the cousin of Rachael's late husband. Here comes all the rest of the small town and all their problems. This story runs all over the town. Rachael married Joe but loved Brodie and still does. He holds a pretty long grudge. Once you catch up this is a good book. Watch out for Hannah she will steal your heart. Give this story a chance and get, lots of tissues! I volunteered to read and review this book.
Read
January 5, 2017**Thanks to Netgalley for an advanced copy of this title***
Patience Griffin brings us back to Gandigow for an all new tale
I'm really horrible at trying to describe books. Short and sweet. Rachel met Joe, they got engaged. They went to Gandigow to get married where she met Joe's cousin Brodie and fell in love. Rachel was pushed into continuing on with the wedding and so they married and returned to the US. The marriage went south and Joe died. Rachel brings her daughter to Gandigow to meet her grandfather and meets up with Brodie. She wants what they could have had but Brodie is extremely resistant. Can they move away from the past and find each other again?
You tell me.. It's a Patience Griffin book! As always, Ms Griffin has brought a fantastic romance full of love, laughs, and Dedie... I absolutely loved it. If you haven't picked up the series, I highly suggest you do!
Patience Griffin brings us back to Gandigow for an all new tale
I'm really horrible at trying to describe books. Short and sweet. Rachel met Joe, they got engaged. They went to Gandigow to get married where she met Joe's cousin Brodie and fell in love. Rachel was pushed into continuing on with the wedding and so they married and returned to the US. The marriage went south and Joe died. Rachel brings her daughter to Gandigow to meet her grandfather and meets up with Brodie. She wants what they could have had but Brodie is extremely resistant. Can they move away from the past and find each other again?
You tell me.. It's a Patience Griffin book! As always, Ms Griffin has brought a fantastic romance full of love, laughs, and Dedie... I absolutely loved it. If you haven't picked up the series, I highly suggest you do!
February 4, 2017
Patience has done it again! I think I cried more in this book than in any books past. I loved the added side story of the mysterious Harry. Looking forward to seeing how his story ends. I also like new and questionable Tuck. He's very likable that I can't believe he's a bad guy. They're running out of eligible bachelors in Gandiegow!
Also liked to see gruff Grandda, Abraham, get better. Hannah was a whirlwind that reminds me of my son!
Also liked to see gruff Grandda, Abraham, get better. Hannah was a whirlwind that reminds me of my son!
November 30, 2016
I adored It Happened in Scotland! It was such a fun, fun book!! Kilt and Quilts just get better and better!!
December 4, 2020
Loved it! Characters are well thought out and great story line.
February 11, 2017
Truth shall set you free.
How different this book is from the series, as it addresses truth. How people do things because they don't want to disappoint or because they are afraid if the truth. Some people live their whole lives not knowing or refuse to believe the truth. And then there are people who embrace the truth, no matter how long it takes in coming and embrace life and love and everything in between. This was such a great read. I love Patience's work and this book was such a treat and a great addition.
How different this book is from the series, as it addresses truth. How people do things because they don't want to disappoint or because they are afraid if the truth. Some people live their whole lives not knowing or refuse to believe the truth. And then there are people who embrace the truth, no matter how long it takes in coming and embrace life and love and everything in between. This was such a great read. I love Patience's work and this book was such a treat and a great addition.
February 8, 2017
Patience Griffin continues her series about love in a small Scottish town with her sixth book, It Happened in Scotland. Fans of the series love the quirky characters, authentic setting and the aura of romance that surround Griffin's books. Readers get everything from stubborn hero's to a little bit of mystery in this one. A great new book, in this heartwarming series.
What I liked:
This series is a favorite of mine and Patience Griffin never disappoints. Contemporary romance is a genre that had to grow on me a bit. I started out reading historical romance and it took me a while to branch out to other areas of the romance genre. With this series I get a little bit of both. Scotland is of course near and dear to my heart. And finding an author who is able to bring the highland spirit and customs into the present day is a rare find. Griffin has created a town in Gandiegow that rivals the real thing. I want to go live there. LOL!
Rachel is more than just an average character. She has a past with this village and these people. She took away one of their native sons and returned without him. The sad part is she didn't really marry him because she loved him. She married him because of her mother. She was in love with his cousin all along. It gives a whole different meaning to her reasons for bringing her daughter to meet her father's family. I liked Rachel. She knew what she wanted and she wasn't afraid to fight for it, but I also felt like she knew when enough was enough. She didn't back track but she understood her limits and that was refreshing in a heroine.
Brodie nearly drove me crazy. And I thought I was stubborn. I realize that Rachel burned him in the past and it's to be expected that he would not want to make the same mistake twice. However, he took it a bit too far. His issues with his own family didn't make it any easier and his distrust of women, was down right insulting at times. He did however find redemption in the end. This was really a story about forgiveness and the affects of holding on to grudges as well as, a love story.
My grandmother's were both quilters. That was one of the things that originally drew me to this series as well as my own Scottish ancestry. The Quilter's Cottage is just a place of inspiration where characters in the story learn to quilt, but readers are not overwhelmed by too many terms and techniques. I like the subtle way Griffin uses the theme but doesn't go overboard with it. I always feel like I learn something about quilting and those who do it every time I read one of these books. Romance might be the main crux of the story, but there's a lot of other stuff going on in this little village.
What I didn't like:
There were several secondary stories playing out within this book. If readers are new to the series they may have a bit of a harder time seeing where all of these little things fit into the overall story. They may seem somewhat disjointed or unnecessary to some. To those of us who have followed the series from the git go, it was nice to see old friends and characters that we have read about before. So, it's not really what I didn't like, but something some readers might not.
Bottom Line:
Once again Patience Griffin took us back to Gandiegow and as I reader I wanted to stay. Griffin's characters were believable and easy to relate to. Rachel was a girl after my own heart. Determined and understanding. Brodie was not really my cup of tea, but in the end he complimented the heroine well and provided the overall theme of forgiveness. It was probably not my favorite of the series, but there are just so many good ones, you just have to read them all. A wonderful, heartwarming gem of a tale!
What I liked:
This series is a favorite of mine and Patience Griffin never disappoints. Contemporary romance is a genre that had to grow on me a bit. I started out reading historical romance and it took me a while to branch out to other areas of the romance genre. With this series I get a little bit of both. Scotland is of course near and dear to my heart. And finding an author who is able to bring the highland spirit and customs into the present day is a rare find. Griffin has created a town in Gandiegow that rivals the real thing. I want to go live there. LOL!
Rachel is more than just an average character. She has a past with this village and these people. She took away one of their native sons and returned without him. The sad part is she didn't really marry him because she loved him. She married him because of her mother. She was in love with his cousin all along. It gives a whole different meaning to her reasons for bringing her daughter to meet her father's family. I liked Rachel. She knew what she wanted and she wasn't afraid to fight for it, but I also felt like she knew when enough was enough. She didn't back track but she understood her limits and that was refreshing in a heroine.
Brodie nearly drove me crazy. And I thought I was stubborn. I realize that Rachel burned him in the past and it's to be expected that he would not want to make the same mistake twice. However, he took it a bit too far. His issues with his own family didn't make it any easier and his distrust of women, was down right insulting at times. He did however find redemption in the end. This was really a story about forgiveness and the affects of holding on to grudges as well as, a love story.
My grandmother's were both quilters. That was one of the things that originally drew me to this series as well as my own Scottish ancestry. The Quilter's Cottage is just a place of inspiration where characters in the story learn to quilt, but readers are not overwhelmed by too many terms and techniques. I like the subtle way Griffin uses the theme but doesn't go overboard with it. I always feel like I learn something about quilting and those who do it every time I read one of these books. Romance might be the main crux of the story, but there's a lot of other stuff going on in this little village.
What I didn't like:
There were several secondary stories playing out within this book. If readers are new to the series they may have a bit of a harder time seeing where all of these little things fit into the overall story. They may seem somewhat disjointed or unnecessary to some. To those of us who have followed the series from the git go, it was nice to see old friends and characters that we have read about before. So, it's not really what I didn't like, but something some readers might not.
Bottom Line:
Once again Patience Griffin took us back to Gandiegow and as I reader I wanted to stay. Griffin's characters were believable and easy to relate to. Rachel was a girl after my own heart. Determined and understanding. Brodie was not really my cup of tea, but in the end he complimented the heroine well and provided the overall theme of forgiveness. It was probably not my favorite of the series, but there are just so many good ones, you just have to read them all. A wonderful, heartwarming gem of a tale!
January 10, 2017
I have a soft spot for stories set in the British Isles. When I think of some of the movies I love, it’s no surprise that The Quiet Man, P.S. I Love You, and the wonderfully quirky The Englishman Who Went Up a Hill But Came Down a Mountain are in the top ten. The scenery is as significant as the story—even part of the story. I was inclined to like It Happened in Scotland by its location alone. Griffin made a bold move by setting her story during the cold winter months that do not hold the scenic glamor of spring and summer. The bitter winds off the ocean fit the sad, if hopeful beginning to It Happened in Scotland.
Rachel had a bad marriage to Joe, Brodie’s cousin. The two were as close as brothers, and both loved Rachel. Rachel, not really knowing her own mind at the time had come to Scotland for the wedding. That’s when she met Brodie and fell in love with him. Still, she went through with the wedding and lived to regret it. The couple were in the process of getting a divorce when Joe died unexpectedly. Years later, Rachel is returning to Scotland so their young daughter can get to know her father’s family and country.
Rachel realizes almost immediately that she wants a second chance with Brodie who has been simultaneously missing and hating her for six years. I wanted more about Brodie besides his broken heart and the guilt he carries about loving his cousin’s wife. What’s Brodie doing out on his fishing boat? In January? What does he do with his haul each day? There’s a discussion about him being able to support a wife and family, but in what manner? Does he smell like fish or the ocean? We needed more Brodie details.
At its heart, this is a story of second chances. There was a lot of denial, questioning, and not enough romance between main characters Brodie and Rachel. It needed about 50% less angst and 30% more description of the scenic town that was so dear, Rachel wants to call it home. Where’s the verbal brochure? (Probably in the first five books.) Still, Griffin is occasionally wonderfully insightful and I liked her writing style.
In the strictest sense, It Happened in Scotland can be read as a standalone book, with a beginning, middle, and end, but it really is the sixth in the series. As a new comer, I was aware of missing context even as I got a complete story. That context was most obvious in a cast a side characters which really made the story, but of whom I was not well acquainted. In a town that small, they have to touch on each other’s lives, but having the focus change so often was unsettling. I think if I knew them better it would have been a welcome check in with other books.
I’m always weary of anything with “women’s fiction” attached to it. It seems to be the catch-all category for women being depressed and working through it…and working us all through it too. Heaven help us. This was less “women’s fiction,” made palatable with more romance. Sitting and sewing and stewing is a lovely way to spend time, but not much to write about and it shows. I felt like an observer and not like a part of the story. Lots of open questions, it’s definitely a mid-series novel. It’s good and I liked it, but don’t expect more than that.
My Rating: B, Liked It
Read this and other reviews at That's What I'm Talking About: http://twimom227.com/2017/01/review-i...
Rachel had a bad marriage to Joe, Brodie’s cousin. The two were as close as brothers, and both loved Rachel. Rachel, not really knowing her own mind at the time had come to Scotland for the wedding. That’s when she met Brodie and fell in love with him. Still, she went through with the wedding and lived to regret it. The couple were in the process of getting a divorce when Joe died unexpectedly. Years later, Rachel is returning to Scotland so their young daughter can get to know her father’s family and country.
Rachel realizes almost immediately that she wants a second chance with Brodie who has been simultaneously missing and hating her for six years. I wanted more about Brodie besides his broken heart and the guilt he carries about loving his cousin’s wife. What’s Brodie doing out on his fishing boat? In January? What does he do with his haul each day? There’s a discussion about him being able to support a wife and family, but in what manner? Does he smell like fish or the ocean? We needed more Brodie details.
At its heart, this is a story of second chances. There was a lot of denial, questioning, and not enough romance between main characters Brodie and Rachel. It needed about 50% less angst and 30% more description of the scenic town that was so dear, Rachel wants to call it home. Where’s the verbal brochure? (Probably in the first five books.) Still, Griffin is occasionally wonderfully insightful and I liked her writing style.
In the strictest sense, It Happened in Scotland can be read as a standalone book, with a beginning, middle, and end, but it really is the sixth in the series. As a new comer, I was aware of missing context even as I got a complete story. That context was most obvious in a cast a side characters which really made the story, but of whom I was not well acquainted. In a town that small, they have to touch on each other’s lives, but having the focus change so often was unsettling. I think if I knew them better it would have been a welcome check in with other books.
I’m always weary of anything with “women’s fiction” attached to it. It seems to be the catch-all category for women being depressed and working through it…and working us all through it too. Heaven help us. This was less “women’s fiction,” made palatable with more romance. Sitting and sewing and stewing is a lovely way to spend time, but not much to write about and it shows. I felt like an observer and not like a part of the story. Lots of open questions, it’s definitely a mid-series novel. It’s good and I liked it, but don’t expect more than that.
My Rating: B, Liked It
Read this and other reviews at That's What I'm Talking About: http://twimom227.com/2017/01/review-i...
February 15, 2017
This review was written by Marie for a guest review post on Ever After Book Reviews blog:
4.5 Stars
The Kilts and Quilts series has been one that I feel is an underrated collection of stories that are well written, sweet and heart-warming. I picked up the first one when it was first released, and I instantly fell in love with Ms. Griffin’s writing style, her characters, and her love of Scotland.
It Happened in Scotland is the sixth book of this charming series, and while it isn’t the best of the bunch, it certainly doesn’t disappoint. It’s a wonderful story about second chances that warms your heart and might even squeeze out a few tears, especially if you become emotionally invested in to Rachel and Brodie as they rekindle their old, and still very much alive, romance.
Ms. Griffin does a fantastic job at developing her characters as she goes, and the evolution of Rachel throughout the course of the story adds to the grandiose romanticism of the story. Add in the sometimes-quirky supporting cast of characters, and you have quite the well-rounded, deeply layered story, complete with a wonderful backdrop in the Scottish Highlands.
If you haven’t picked up this series yet, I highly recommend that you do. And while reading the whole series is beneficial, it isn’t one-hundred percent necessary. So, do yourself a favor, and give It Happened in Scotland a try. I guarantee you’ll be hooked.
***I read and reviewed a paperback copy of the book in exchange for an honest review. All conclusions reached are my own***
4.5 Stars
The Kilts and Quilts series has been one that I feel is an underrated collection of stories that are well written, sweet and heart-warming. I picked up the first one when it was first released, and I instantly fell in love with Ms. Griffin’s writing style, her characters, and her love of Scotland.
It Happened in Scotland is the sixth book of this charming series, and while it isn’t the best of the bunch, it certainly doesn’t disappoint. It’s a wonderful story about second chances that warms your heart and might even squeeze out a few tears, especially if you become emotionally invested in to Rachel and Brodie as they rekindle their old, and still very much alive, romance.
Ms. Griffin does a fantastic job at developing her characters as she goes, and the evolution of Rachel throughout the course of the story adds to the grandiose romanticism of the story. Add in the sometimes-quirky supporting cast of characters, and you have quite the well-rounded, deeply layered story, complete with a wonderful backdrop in the Scottish Highlands.
If you haven’t picked up this series yet, I highly recommend that you do. And while reading the whole series is beneficial, it isn’t one-hundred percent necessary. So, do yourself a favor, and give It Happened in Scotland a try. I guarantee you’ll be hooked.
***I read and reviewed a paperback copy of the book in exchange for an honest review. All conclusions reached are my own***
January 3, 2017
What a wonderful story of love, loss, redemption and second chances. It Happened in Scotland, takes us back to Gandiegow and the people that make this small town come alive. From Deydie, the town matriarch to the gals of Quilt Central to Cait, Moira and everyone we have come to care about. We meet new friends and get reacquainted with old ones in this small seaside town.
Rachel thought she had found the perfect man, when she met and married Joe, a native son of Gandiegow. Living in Chicago, they decide to head to Joe’s hometown, Gandiegow, to get married. Doubts began to form when Rachel meets Joe’s cousin, Brodie, and finds her heart being pulled in another direction. Always one to do the “right thing” Rachel and Joe marry and return to Chicago to what Rachel hoped would lead to her happily-ever-after.
Soon after the birth of their daughter, Hannah, Rachel realizes that Joe is not the loving husband she imagined and Rachel and Hannah move out. When Joe unexpectantly dies, Rachel briefly returns to Gandiegow to bury Joe and close that chapter of her life. Returning to Chicago, Rachel resumes her life and career, now as a widow with a young child.
After a while, Rachel decides she wants Hannah to know Joe’s family and plans a Christmas holiday in Scotland. Not sure of her welcome in Gandiegow, Rachel packs her Christmas quilt and with her daughter heads to Scotland. The plan is to stay in Glasgow with a couple of nights at the Quilting Central Dorm in Gandiegow. On the flight over Rachel meets Cait Buchanan and decides to head straight to Gandiegow and the Quilting Dorm. These plans are thwarted when Joe’s Grandfather announces that she and Hannah will stay in his home; which unbeknownst to Rachel, he shares with Brodie, the one Rachel has never forgotten.
Gandiegow comes alive in Patience Griffin’s books and her stories and characters are so real, that you may find yourself looking for Gandiegow on a map and trying to join a retreat at Quilting Central or book a room in the new B&B!
Rachel thought she had found the perfect man, when she met and married Joe, a native son of Gandiegow. Living in Chicago, they decide to head to Joe’s hometown, Gandiegow, to get married. Doubts began to form when Rachel meets Joe’s cousin, Brodie, and finds her heart being pulled in another direction. Always one to do the “right thing” Rachel and Joe marry and return to Chicago to what Rachel hoped would lead to her happily-ever-after.
Soon after the birth of their daughter, Hannah, Rachel realizes that Joe is not the loving husband she imagined and Rachel and Hannah move out. When Joe unexpectantly dies, Rachel briefly returns to Gandiegow to bury Joe and close that chapter of her life. Returning to Chicago, Rachel resumes her life and career, now as a widow with a young child.
After a while, Rachel decides she wants Hannah to know Joe’s family and plans a Christmas holiday in Scotland. Not sure of her welcome in Gandiegow, Rachel packs her Christmas quilt and with her daughter heads to Scotland. The plan is to stay in Glasgow with a couple of nights at the Quilting Central Dorm in Gandiegow. On the flight over Rachel meets Cait Buchanan and decides to head straight to Gandiegow and the Quilting Dorm. These plans are thwarted when Joe’s Grandfather announces that she and Hannah will stay in his home; which unbeknownst to Rachel, he shares with Brodie, the one Rachel has never forgotten.
Gandiegow comes alive in Patience Griffin’s books and her stories and characters are so real, that you may find yourself looking for Gandiegow on a map and trying to join a retreat at Quilting Central or book a room in the new B&B!
January 3, 2017
It Happened in Scotland (Book #6) in the Kilts and Quilts series, is simply wonderful and brings almost full circle all of the characters who will have met along the way. In some ways it is closely tied to the recently published book #5 where Moira and Andrew finally exchanged their vows. This book, as it turns out is the last in the series much to my dismay, but reading the fine print and knowing the love the author, Patience Griffin, has for this charming but challenging coastal town in northeast Scotland, (and yes, she reminded me that I drove the heartstopping Devil's Elbow-now shut down- on my way from Edinburgh to Aviemore(sp) these characters like her quilts have all been woven together in this final chapter...but perhaps, as hinted..not for long. On occasion they will she promises, make a guest appearance in future books.
The main characters in this battle for a second chance are Rachel(American) and Brodie, who had a moment 6 years before but when fate-twisted or otherwise- intervened when Rachel chose an ill fated marriage to his cousin and broke not only Brodie's heart but her own, and now she is back a single mom , with an insightful and precocious 5 year of daughter who have come to spend Christmas with Abraham, Hannah's never met great grandfather who is ailing. There is also a thief who is using sticky fingers to take various items which is unheard of in Gandiegow-who is it,There are so many characters who weave their way through this book, I was melancholy when I finished it, but also very satisfied. When this book is available please please give yourself a treat and pre-order it....and make sure you have a few cups of your favorite tea and scones while you consume this charming book.
The main characters in this battle for a second chance are Rachel(American) and Brodie, who had a moment 6 years before but when fate-twisted or otherwise- intervened when Rachel chose an ill fated marriage to his cousin and broke not only Brodie's heart but her own, and now she is back a single mom , with an insightful and precocious 5 year of daughter who have come to spend Christmas with Abraham, Hannah's never met great grandfather who is ailing. There is also a thief who is using sticky fingers to take various items which is unheard of in Gandiegow-who is it,There are so many characters who weave their way through this book, I was melancholy when I finished it, but also very satisfied. When this book is available please please give yourself a treat and pre-order it....and make sure you have a few cups of your favorite tea and scones while you consume this charming book.
January 4, 2017
Finally! After I didn't enjoy the last two books as much as the first three, I didn't have high hopes for this one. Imagine my surprise when I not only enjoyed it, I LOVED it.
Rachel was engaged to one man, but fell in love with his cousin when they met before the wedding. Family pressure keeps her from being with the man she truly loves, and kept her in a marriage that was a risk to her health. After the birth of her daughter she gets the courage to leave the bad man, but before the divorce was finalized he died, leaving her a widow.
Brodie is a bitter man, thanks to what he sees as Rachel's betrayal after a lifetime of "betrayals" by women. Home to tend to his ailing grandfather, he is annoyed to discover that he now has to be around Rachel and her young daughter for the holidays when she comes to visit the same ailing grandparent.
Griffin finally struck a balance between strong characters and a good story. Rather than coming into it with an agenda like in the last book The Trouble With Scotland, It Happened in Scotland allows the characters to tell the story in a natural way, nothing forced or artificial. This is not to say there isn't a weak area; I didn't feel like Rachel's confrontation with her mother was strong enough or resolved in a realistic way, but that is one minor area in a book where the plot line shines. We get to revisit with old characters and see some loose ends finally get tied up, all with the tiny village of Gandegow shining on the edge of the sea like a beacon of hope.
Rachel was engaged to one man, but fell in love with his cousin when they met before the wedding. Family pressure keeps her from being with the man she truly loves, and kept her in a marriage that was a risk to her health. After the birth of her daughter she gets the courage to leave the bad man, but before the divorce was finalized he died, leaving her a widow.
Brodie is a bitter man, thanks to what he sees as Rachel's betrayal after a lifetime of "betrayals" by women. Home to tend to his ailing grandfather, he is annoyed to discover that he now has to be around Rachel and her young daughter for the holidays when she comes to visit the same ailing grandparent.
Griffin finally struck a balance between strong characters and a good story. Rather than coming into it with an agenda like in the last book The Trouble With Scotland, It Happened in Scotland allows the characters to tell the story in a natural way, nothing forced or artificial. This is not to say there isn't a weak area; I didn't feel like Rachel's confrontation with her mother was strong enough or resolved in a realistic way, but that is one minor area in a book where the plot line shines. We get to revisit with old characters and see some loose ends finally get tied up, all with the tiny village of Gandegow shining on the edge of the sea like a beacon of hope.
February 8, 2017
I received this book through a giveaway on Goodreads and I'm so glad I did! What a wonderful story! I had not read the previous books in the series, and I feel this book could be read as a stand alone story. I loved the inclusion of so many of the other characters. It really felt like a small town community. I can't wait to read the other books.
As for this story, I really felt the main characters were well drawn out and fully developed. They felt like people I knew and could understand their struggle. Rachel is seeking to right her past wrong with Brodie and reconcile. Brodie, on the other hand, has put a wall around his heart and is struggling with forgiveness for several people in his life. I really enjoyed the subplot of the struggle between Brodie and his mother. Normally, I'm not a huge fan of the "children bringing everyone together" type story, but I just adored Hannah. She was hilarious and her presence didn't overwhelm the book. The romance was great; it developed at a nice pace. You could really feel the chemistry between Rachel and Brodie.
I also enjoyed the brewing romance between Abraham and Deydie. I hope we get to see a conclusion to that in the next book! My fingers are also crossed that Tuck gets his own book. I'd love to know his backstory!
As for this story, I really felt the main characters were well drawn out and fully developed. They felt like people I knew and could understand their struggle. Rachel is seeking to right her past wrong with Brodie and reconcile. Brodie, on the other hand, has put a wall around his heart and is struggling with forgiveness for several people in his life. I really enjoyed the subplot of the struggle between Brodie and his mother. Normally, I'm not a huge fan of the "children bringing everyone together" type story, but I just adored Hannah. She was hilarious and her presence didn't overwhelm the book. The romance was great; it developed at a nice pace. You could really feel the chemistry between Rachel and Brodie.
I also enjoyed the brewing romance between Abraham and Deydie. I hope we get to see a conclusion to that in the next book! My fingers are also crossed that Tuck gets his own book. I'd love to know his backstory!
December 18, 2016
Ahhh, this series is my own little vacation to a land I love, even if the land in this series is a fictional Scottish fishing village where the men are braw, kilt-wearing, and have full respect for women.
In this latest book, the reader finds the heroine, Rachel, in a [sort of] love triangle; dealing with the the loss of her husband while attempting to reunite with his townsfolk, old feelings stir for another she met once upon a time. Brodie, the hero, has his own emotional ghosts to deal with and according to the townsfolk–okay Deydie, he’s not fairing well at this task. Meanwhile, a thief may be roaming this secluded town as things start to disappear while matters of the heart are being found.
While the story is enjoyable and a quick read, I found one character a bit too annoying, Rachel’s five year old child. Maybe it’s me, but I’ve never known a five year old to be ‘that’ wise beyond her age; ‘that’ understanding about new men in her mom’s life, ‘that’ happy-go-lucky all the time. I personally felt this character could have used a little more depth of character American five year old’s typically exhibit, which may have made the story a bit more livelier between the H/H. You’ll have to judge for yourself though as this is an overall pleasant next episode for the Kilts and Quilts Novel and a wonderful journey back to Gandiegow. If you’re wanting Christmas to continue a little bit longer, you’ll love It Happened in Scotland as it takes place during the holiday season, making this one more present for you! Happy reading.
In this latest book, the reader finds the heroine, Rachel, in a [sort of] love triangle; dealing with the the loss of her husband while attempting to reunite with his townsfolk, old feelings stir for another she met once upon a time. Brodie, the hero, has his own emotional ghosts to deal with and according to the townsfolk–okay Deydie, he’s not fairing well at this task. Meanwhile, a thief may be roaming this secluded town as things start to disappear while matters of the heart are being found.
While the story is enjoyable and a quick read, I found one character a bit too annoying, Rachel’s five year old child. Maybe it’s me, but I’ve never known a five year old to be ‘that’ wise beyond her age; ‘that’ understanding about new men in her mom’s life, ‘that’ happy-go-lucky all the time. I personally felt this character could have used a little more depth of character American five year old’s typically exhibit, which may have made the story a bit more livelier between the H/H. You’ll have to judge for yourself though as this is an overall pleasant next episode for the Kilts and Quilts Novel and a wonderful journey back to Gandiegow. If you’re wanting Christmas to continue a little bit longer, you’ll love It Happened in Scotland as it takes place during the holiday season, making this one more present for you! Happy reading.
January 3, 2017
5 stars
This book is the sixth in the Kilts and Quilts series and it was a great addition. I loves this story as someone who loves scots, quilting and romance this series is awesome with all of its quirky characters this author writes books that are so much more then just the usual romance (which I also love).
This is a second chance romance and I liked that it was Rachel working to build the relationship and not Brodie (as it is often the males that made the "mistake" of leaving). I also loved Hannah and her complete love of Scotland and how she completely immersed herself in everything Scottish. This story is lovely and while there is drama it's not only between the main characters but all the supporting characters and what is going on in the town. The only thing that was a bit disappointing for me was we didn't get to find out who Harry's father is but hopefully that will all come out in the next book in the series.
Patience Griffin writes stories that are vert character based and the romance in her stories take place within what is going on in town so while the 'romance' may be the focal point of the book the supporting characters are highly important to the entire story and this is something I love about her books. If you haven't read anything by this author before you can definitely start with this book but I would suggest starting at the beginning because you will enjoy this story and it's character so much more.
This book is the sixth in the Kilts and Quilts series and it was a great addition. I loves this story as someone who loves scots, quilting and romance this series is awesome with all of its quirky characters this author writes books that are so much more then just the usual romance (which I also love).
This is a second chance romance and I liked that it was Rachel working to build the relationship and not Brodie (as it is often the males that made the "mistake" of leaving). I also loved Hannah and her complete love of Scotland and how she completely immersed herself in everything Scottish. This story is lovely and while there is drama it's not only between the main characters but all the supporting characters and what is going on in the town. The only thing that was a bit disappointing for me was we didn't get to find out who Harry's father is but hopefully that will all come out in the next book in the series.
Patience Griffin writes stories that are vert character based and the romance in her stories take place within what is going on in town so while the 'romance' may be the focal point of the book the supporting characters are highly important to the entire story and this is something I love about her books. If you haven't read anything by this author before you can definitely start with this book but I would suggest starting at the beginning because you will enjoy this story and it's character so much more.
January 6, 2017
Exceptional character development and heartfelt storyline combined for a wonderful read. Love the addition of continued storylines of past characters and sense of close community involvement. Great addition to the book series. Highly recommended read.
January 16, 2017
Rating: 3 1/2 stars. I absolutely love this series with all the regular reoccurring characters. It's like visiting with old friends after not seeing them for a year in between. It Happened in Scotland is probably my least favorite in the Kilts and Quilts series. It just didn't pull at my heart strings as much as the other five books in the series and the middle of the book seemed pretty repetitive with Brody's flip flopping emotions. That having been said, I did like the ending a lot with its strong message of the importance of forgiveness. There are also a couple of "bonus" couple hook ups by the end of the story. Please tell me this is not because the series has ended?!
February 1, 2017
A lovely book in all respects except for ending right after the romance finally came together.
I was glad that some of the couples from the previous books were included in the story, and new couples came together, too. Since it's a small community, it makes the story richer to include as many of the couples as possible, but not so many that the story gets confusing.
I hope this isn't the end of the series because I'm sure everyone wants to know who Harry's father is, not to mention all of the couples who still need to get together.
I was glad that some of the couples from the previous books were included in the story, and new couples came together, too. Since it's a small community, it makes the story richer to include as many of the couples as possible, but not so many that the story gets confusing.
I hope this isn't the end of the series because I'm sure everyone wants to know who Harry's father is, not to mention all of the couples who still need to get together.
February 4, 2017
"It Happened in Scotland" written by Patience Griffin, is one of the "Kilts and Quilts" series of novels based on a fictional town in Scotland, named Gandiegow.
Filled with heartwarming characters and events, traditions and small town charm, this story is a captivating and endearing tale of second chances at love.
Now that I have discovered this series, I look forward to reading more from Patience Griffen.
I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway.
Filled with heartwarming characters and events, traditions and small town charm, this story is a captivating and endearing tale of second chances at love.
Now that I have discovered this series, I look forward to reading more from Patience Griffen.
I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway.
January 7, 2017
I don't write many reviews but these books all have touched my heart. I have laughed, cried and been pleasantly warmed by the romantic scenes. Her characters are full and real and the scenery is beautiful. I also love that quilting runs through the stories bringing people together just as in real life.
January 11, 2017
a wonderful story in one of my favorite series. Second chance stories are one of my favorites to read and Rachel and Brodie deserve a second chance at love. Gandiegow is full of rich and unique characters and I love visiting this place. Its a nice surprise to read that there will be another book coming out later this year. Woot!
January 21, 2017
I enjoy this series. The characters are good, most of them appearing in all the books with some taking center stage in each book. I like the little touches that make it seem like you could go and find the village. Patience is adept at picking some details to be left to discover in future books, but you don't mind waiting. Some scenes tug gently at your emotions. Thoroughly enjoyable.
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