I really liked Kilt Trip. I loved getting to know the characters and the family. But more importantly, I adored learning about Scotland from the MMC, a tour guide.
I immediately started Scot and Bothered and it didn’t let me down! It was an emotional journey of a couple given a second chance at life and love.
The real beauty is the setting of the Isle of Skye. I was googling places constantly, just to picture the beauty that was being described. Like Kilt Trip, the author has an incredible knowledge of Scotland and its history. She did a fantastic job weaving the romance throughout, told in Then and Now chapters. I was definitely more invested in the now. Maybe one day I will venture to the Isle of Skye and see it in person!

I went into Scot and Bothered feeling lukewarm about Kilt Trip. I will say Scot and Bothered got me in the first few chapters. The college flashback and Jack and Brooke meeting had me giggling! Absolutely adorable.

Jack and Brooke had a lot of chemistry - the title is absolutely perfect! In their college years it was clear they both had to figure out their places in life, and I loved seeing this with flashbacks. It was easy to follow and added so much more to the story.

Thanks to Canary Street Press for the eARC in exchange for an honest review.

4.5/5 ⭐

First of all, I'd like to thank NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing/Canary Street Press for approving my request for the eARC. I read book one of this series as my first NetGalley book approval ever, and now book two as my first eARC of this year. It was great fun, and it did not disappoint.

If you read and enjoyed the first book, Kilt Trip, for taking you on a guided tour around Scotland Highlands, then you will love this book for immersing you into the country even further on a week's long backpacking trip along the Skye Trail. Do not be worried about a sophomore/2nd book slump. This book felt even more put together and had a very fun and unique style of reliving the past, yet keeping you grounded in the present day. If you aren't caught up, you can read this book as a standalone, but I'd recommend getting introduced to the family, and family business first, to really understand our MMC's history.

Our main FMC character is Brooke Sinclair, ex-pat from America, author, and former lover of Jack Sutherland, photographer, and of the Sutherland family whose brother was introduced to us in Kilt Trip. This story is told in dual POV and bounces back and forth from when they met 7-years prior, to the present day trip. They were brought together all these years later, begrudgingly, as Brooke is cowriter of Jack's Aunt's memoir, and the hired photographer has just broken their leg.

Honestly, it was a bit of a slow start for me. The main trope was Second Chance, and if you read my review for The Book Swap last year, you will find that my relationship with this trope is mixed. I really have a hard time getting behind reconciliation if there is too much baggage. Thankfully, as we got introduced to Brooke & Jack's romance whirlwind, and eventual falling out, I felt that the baggage wasn't as deep or convoluted as prior reads.

I thought both characters had great growth, from past to present, and even on the week's trip itself. Enough that you could believe in their chemistry and rekindling. I think, once again, that I may have preferred our MMC a little bit more than the FMC. But both had great internal processing and at times I was just yelling, "Go for it!". They both suffered from anxiety, imposter syndrome, and general lack of confidence in themselves and their craft, stemmed greatly from their past, and in Jack's case, some family baggage. Together, they felt very magnetically charged. Even as she loathed to work with him again, Brooke was still very drawn to Jack. And he never lost feelings for Brooke.

And this brings me to my biggest complaint of the story. So, either our author, or just her characters, have some fetishes that aren't discussed as such. But truly, how many times can one mention or describe how a person's pants cling to his thighs, hinting at the muscle underneath?? I made a note that at 33% in I had wanted to start over and go back to count. And then at 40% made another note of how he could feel the muscle of her leg through the thin fabric of her leggings. For reals? And then it got even "better" when Brooke kept drawing her eye to the "shadow under his lip". What does that even mean? Ugh. Another round of edit may have helped...

Thankfully, the Skye Trail trip itself was fascinating, random travel companions delightful, and our MCs' origin story sweet, and full of anticipation. What eventually tore them apart 7-years prior was not some huge reveal, could be easily figured out, but how it came about and the motives behind the 'betrayal' not so black & white. And the third act break-up in present day is there, reason also predicted, but understood in both its necessity and unfairness. But the story still flowed and led to a believable and satisfactory resolution.

By the end, I was even hoping for an epilogue that included excerpts from the memoir with Jack's photos interspersed. If a special edition comes out with photos of Scotland, and a "book within a book" they can consider me a guaranteed buyer.

I will be seeking out future titles by this author, Alexandra Kiley, and from these publishers. I do hope the next trope is fake dating, one of my faves. And it would be nice if our FMC originated from somewhere other than America. Why can't we fall for a local? Or even someone from that side of the pond?

Tropes: Second Chance, Forced Proximity, Only One Bed

Thank you Canary Street Press and HTP Hive for the ARC to review!

Brooke and Jack’s painful past collides on a life-changing trek through the Scottish Highlands, where old wounds and second chances lead them to confront what they truly want.

I really enjoyed this standalone from Alexandra Kiley. It involves the same family as her debut (Logan’s brother Jack), but doesn’t have to be read as part of a series.

Loved the dual POV and the dual timeline. It worked so well that I messaged Alexandra to tell her it was exciting and infuriating when it would switch because I wanted to know all of the things! Jack and Brooke were very romantic and their initial relationship was lovely, though it had challenges. The second chance was really well earned I thought and the passion of the characters really shines through.

All of our side characters were great and I loved seeing Logan again. I also really hope the next book is about Reid that little angel.

The writing and photography subplots were great and I thought the execution was done well. The grief and love on page were SO relatable.

Definitely recommend picking this one

Another beautiful love letter to Scotland by Alexandra Kiley! Her descriptions of Scotland simultaneously take me back to my own visits and make me want to go visit again! The dual timelines made Jack and Brooke’s story very interesting to read. As the timelines move forward we see the downfall of their relationship in the “then” while we see them coming back together in the “now”. I really like how the heartbreak in one timeline is mirrored with hope and love in the other. Jack and Brooke are meant to be but it takes some time to get them there. There’s quite a bit of misunderstanding and miscommunication, but ultimately they get their second chance. They also both realize how to say what they want from life and careers and love and then go after it. I also love how besides with each other, they both feel the most seen by Mhairi, which brings them together in the face of her illness as well. Definitely recommend picking this one up, especially if you love Scotland!

If you’re Outlander girl and in love with Jamie Fraser like I am, then you’re probably also drawn to romcoms with a Scottish MMC and SAB wont disappoint. We’ve got Scottish slang, kilts, highland coos, and an adventure on the Isle of Skye!

At first, I didn’t know if this book was going to be for me. But the more I read, the more I enjoyed it. I could really relate to Brooke, her doubts and insecurities over her writing, her imposter syndrome, and her feelings of not being good enough to go for her dreams.

Our MMC Jack battled his own insecurities and people pleasing tendencies, and I loved how the emphasis of their relationship was supporting each other and their dreams.

My only real complaint is that I could have used just a little more tension and build up between them. And for a moment I was terrified of a late 3rd act breakup, but thankfully there was none to be found.

And while Kiley did a wonderful job of making the stunningly beautiful Isle of Skye come alive with her vivid descriptions, she also managed to reaffirm that I absolutely HATE camping and will never EVER do it even if a hot Scottish man wanted me to. 😂

Scot and Bothered is a touching second chance romance brimming with emotion. Told in past/present timelines, the novel follows American Brooke Sinclair, a professional ghostwriter in Scotland, tasked with co-writing the memoir of her college mentor — the founder of one of the Highland’s most daring hiking treks. To get a feel for the story, Brooke agrees to hike the trail alongside the memoir’s photographer, only to discover that the man in question is her ex-boyfriend Jack Sutherland. The two haven’t seen each other since their illicit relationship derailed both of their academic careers and now they must come to terms with old hurts and lingering feelings as they careen through the sweeping Scottish setting.

While part of an interconnected series, Scot and Bothered reads firmly as a standalone. The novel itself is full of unrequited yearning courtesy of Brooke and Jack’s second chance circumstances and forced proximity hiking endeavor. This book was perfect for the dual timeline/POV format, providing readers with the scope of hurt and weight of passion these two characters endured. I do wish that the details of Brooke and Jack’s prior breakup were given to us sooner, but their rekindled affections and mutual pining kept me engaged throughout the plot.

Surprisingly, the character of Mhairi — Brooke’s mentor and Jack’s aunt — wound up being the beating heart of the story. Brooke and Jack’s mutual love for Mhairi bolstered their attachment to each other, acting as a bridge for their reconnection. Through Mhairi, we also get incredible insight into Brooke’s fervor for writing, along with her self doubt and musings on success. These passages were very relatable and endeared me to Brooke as a character.

Alexandra Kiley’s writing oozes tenderness, creating characters and settings with clear affection. Scot and Bothered is a heart-affirming adventure where two unmoored souls are able to forgive the wounds of the past in order to maintain a harmonious reconciliation in the present.

What You’ll Find:
-Dual POVs
-Only one tent
-Forced proximity
-Past/present timelines
-Scottish highland setting
-Second chance romance
-Ghostwriter x photographer
-Taboo student/TA relationship

Thank you Harlequin Trade Publishing, Canary Street Press, and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC in exchange for my honest review.

How could I NOT pick up a book with a Highland Cow on it?

Scot and Bothered is the second book in a series following Kilt Trip. But don't worry, they can stand on their own. You don't have to read the first to understand this one--though I would recommend it, since the first one was so much fun!

Brooke is a ghostwriter working on a book for her mentor, Mhairi. After her editor gives her feedback that she needs to find the soul of the book, she decides to hike the trail on the Isle of Skye that her mentor was key in creating. It's the perfect opportunity for the new photographer to come along and snap some shots for the book. Only the new photographer ends up being her ex from college--Jack! Jack who was her TA before it all blew up. Jack who makes a Pantagonia jacket and hiking pants that zip off into shorts look amazing. That Jack.

Brooke and Jack's chemistry is A+. And their dialogue is fun and engaging. The book is told in dual timelines so we get to experience their initial meeting (he's a pirate-I was sold) AND their hike through the scenic trails of Skye, which I love. I'm there for all the romantic tension--even more so if I can get it twice!

One of my favorite parts of this book was that the Isle of Skye was a character in its own right. Alexandra does a great job of creating a picture and pulling us in. Scotland is one of my favorite places on earth, and it was great 'experiencing' it from my own couch!

I took off one star because there were a few moments where I felt I lost the pacing a bit. Nothing drastic, just enough to take off a star. I whole heartedly recommend this book. It's perfect for fans of second-chance romance, Scotland, and fun dialogue.

I received ann arc of this book to give an honest review, I absolutely loved this book! Jack and Brooke were probably my favorite couple so far this year! This book had so much depth and I truly enjoyed the flashback scenes. I cannot wait to read more from Alexandra!

I loved the Scottish setting! The descriptive writing brought me along the hiking trail with the characters.

There was a lot of growth for both characters. Each gaining the courage and accepting the support to chase their dreams.

The dual timeline POVs were perfect for seeing the MCs’ relationship develop in the past and present.

I really loved this one! Seeing Jack and Brooke rekindle their romance was a joy.

Second chance romance. Forbidden romance. Forced Proximity. Road trip (sort of) romance.

This book solidified my love of Alexandra Kiley’s writing. I read Kilt Trip last year and loved it so much that it inspired a Scotland trip. Getting to read Scot and Bothered and revisit some of the characters and the city I loved so much was so fun. I genuinely didn’t think I’d love this more than Kilt Trip but immediately fell in love with Jack and Brooke.

I love the way Kiley brings Scotland to life so vividly and allows the reader to experience its beauty as if firsthand.

I saw so much of myself in Brooke and related to her experience of feeling directionless and a bit lost. I love how no matter how much time has passed, Jack has no problem admitting how he still deeply cares (and loves lol) for her, and the way he still truly sees her.

This book had me giggling and kicking my feet and I desperately want more of these characters.

There are so many things I loved about this book! First, I loved Brooke and Jack! Each character on their own was very likable and strong. Put them together and you have the cutest little romance. It wasn’t all fluff though and I loved how their background added depth to their relationship. The dual timeline was the perfect way to tell their story.

Scotland itself was a character and the details give made me feel like I was there while reading.

I’m usually not a second chance romance gal, but I loved this and can’t recommend it enough!

Thank you to NetGalley, Harlequin Trade Publishing and Canary Street Press for an arc of this book.

I absolutely loved Kilt Trip! So to say when I seen a new novel by Kiley I jumped at the opportunity to read and review it!
Scot and Bothered by Alexandra Kiley is a delightful and captivating romance novel that will leave readers enchanted and yearning to pack their bags and experience the magic for yourself.
Kiley's writing is both entertaining and insightful, making this book a must-read for fans of the genre.
I absolutely loved this book. It had a good pacing, it was really cute, and the chemistry and sweet romance parts were truly beautiful.
I loved Jack and Brooke’s chemistry! Just so amazing.
The story grabbed me from the beginning and never let go. I laughed and cried and it was one of my absolute favorite romances of the year.
A fun and exciting second chance romance!

As someone married to a man whose family comes from the Isle of Skye, I absolutely had to read this one. Also, I love the title! I stayed up reading this story; it was such a lovely comfort sort of read with its descriptions of Skye and characters I enjoyed.

Brooke's dreams of being a writer suffered a crushing setback after losing her chance to complete the writing program of her dreams at The University of Edinburgh. Jack's wish was to connect people to the land he loved through photography, but his family expectations and pressures to enter their business felt overwhelming. The two had a scorching forbidden romance (teaching assistant/student) that ended spectacularly badly, after which they didn't see each other for seven years.

Brooke becomes a ghostwriter, setting aside dreams of her own writing voice after feeling frozen in her heartbreak. She agrees to help her writing mentor with a memoir, not knowing that the assignment of researching while hiking on the Isle of Skye means working with Jack. As they hike across the gorgeous, challenging landscape they are forced to confront both their unresolved feelings and the need to find their authentic selves.

I enjoyed this so much. The Isle of Skye almost seemed like a character itself, with all the vivid descriptions and tidbits included. There wasn't a ton of spice but it was well-written and the chemistry was sparking off the page. I loved the secondary character Mhairi, Jack's aunt who was also Brooke's mentor; it made me want a magical adventurous aunt full of life wisdom!

Thank you so much to Harlequin Trade Publishing / Canary Street Press for this ARC!

Something I love about romance novels is that it seems like a lot of people think they are just silly little reads for silly little women but to me so so many of these books allow the reader to learn things about themselves by recognizing similarities between themselves and the characters on the page, process their thoughts and feelings in a safe way, and give a person hope that things will get better.

Scot and Bothered is one of those novels. By the 2nd page I was already realize that there are parts of myself that desperately need fixing and that this book was going to take me places within myself that haven’t been examined in a long time. This book had me in my feelings, and has caused me to seriously question what feeds my soul.

On a lighter note, Alexandra Kiley once again has me dreaming of traveling to Scotland, and taught me the only thing I love more than a highland cow is the adorable “hairy coo” nickname for them.

I LOVED this book! It was filled with heartbreak, yearning, tension and a love that felt predestined. This book made me feel comfortable and adventurous. It made me giggle, cry and smile uncontrollably at the infectious joy leaping off the pages.

Scot and Bothered is a second chance romance that jumps between 7 years ago and present day. A lot of times I have trouble staying absorbed in flash backs but not with this story. I was just as invested in the “then” as I was the “now”. This book gives us two mesmerizing, deep love stories in one. I could feel Brooke’s and Jack’s pain, longing and hope for forgiveness and a future and my need to find out how their love story ended made it impossible to put down.

In classic Alexandra Kiley form, this book shines a spotlight on Scotland, its history and its adventures waiting to be explored. The imagery Kiley conjures of this beautiful country has me yearning to jump on a plane and experience it myself. I can’t recommend this book enough!!!

Another book set in the Scotland in the same world as Kilt Trip? Sign me up! Also, fair warning that reading this will make you want to visit Scotland!

Scot and Bothered by Alexandra Kiley is an interconnected standalone book following Kilt Trip (which is SO GOOD), and it didn’t disappoint. Through dual timelines we get a peek into the lives of photographer Jack and writer Brooke, as they navigate grad school drama and their lives seven years later. Jack and Brooke are exes that begrudgingly agree to go on a rugged 80-mile hike along the Skye Trail to help their mentor finish her memoir. The hiking adventure not only takes you on a journey through Skye, but we also get to see what comes of Brooke and Jack as they navigate their way through a second-chance romance (and ending up with only one tent). It is impossible for me to sum up the journeys they took in this book, you’ve got to read it yourself - trust me, it’s worth it!

I highly recommend grabbing this book!

'Scot and Bothered' grabbed me in from the very beginning. An American in Scotland going to school is so fun for me, but the emotional turmoil of Brooke and Jack's relationship was anything but fun. The story is one of unrealized dreams and second chances, and most of all forgiveness. I would highly recommend this book to anyone who like to wade through the angst of righting wrongs, resulting in worthwhile love and hope.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.

I think this was a solid romance, but I will admit both second chance romance and forbidden love are some of my favorite tropes. It took me a little bit to get into, but I really enjoyed the second half. There is good pining/yearning, and I enjoyed the hiking plot line. Ultimately, I think was looking for more from
Jack as a main character. I felt that way in the first book when he was a side character, so I was excited to see him get his main character moment. He fell a little flat for me, however.

Rating: 5⭐️ | Spice: 2🌶️
What to Expect:   
Second Chance Romance
Forbidden
Only One Tent
Found Family
Scottish Setting (Isle of Skye)

“It’s alright to not know what you want, but when you do, don’t let it go. Give it everything you have, or you won’t stand a chance of ever being happy.”

Review Title & Vibes:
{I WON’T BOTHER DENYING HOW MUCH I LOVE THIS BOOK} This was a second chance romance WIN! Dreamy Scottish countryside setting, will-they-won’t-they tension, dual timeline, and all the emotion. Jack & Brooke are captivating! This story is both heartbreaking (yes-I cried) and heartwarming (an HEA that left me giddy).

Jack Sutherland (younger brother to Logan from Kilt Trip) is the sexy, slightly aimless, Scot. The family tourist business isn’t his passion - but nothing else seems to capture his attention- until Brooke Sinclair. Her writing aspirations and determination captivate him. The timing of their first meeting wasn’t ideal - their relationship forbidden, and the fall out was catastrophic. Years later they embark on a cross country hike to capture the heart of Skye Trail, founded by Mhairi McCallister (Jack’s aunt/Brooke’s mentor). It’s a second chance at love and realizing their respective dreams.

I’m determined to find a way to have a booksta meetup in Edinburgh-who’s in??

Recommended to...  
All the second chance romance readers - this one is beautiful.

Thank you so much @akileybooks @canarystreetpress @harlequinbooks for the advance paperback and eARC!