This book was a beautiful story of second chance romance and facing your fears. I am usually not a fan of second chance romance because I have a hard time forgiving, but I was a fan of Brooke and Jack from the beginning. I was on Brooke’s side through her anger and sadness. The trials of the Skye Trail coupled with Brooke’s introspection made for an impactful story. I felt like I really knew Brooke and Jack. Especially with the flashbacks interspersed throughout the book. It was a beautiful and emotional story. I can not express that enough. I recommend this book for romance lovers who are looking for an emotional story about facing fears and reaching for your dreams.

Thank you @bookswithnopictures @just_talking_to_my_shelf @htpbooks @alexandrakiley and @htp_hive for this wonderful opportunity! Scot and Bothered is out March 4!

Brooke dreams of being a published author, but an incident at university leaves her ghostwriting other people’s stories. She is beyond excited when she is asked to ghostwrite her mentor, Mhairi McAllister’s memoir. Mhairi discovered the Skye Trail, a famous hike in Scotland. To get in the headspace to write this book, Brooke decides to hike some of the trail for inspiration. Along with her is a nature photographer who happens to be Mhairi’s nephew… and Brooke’s ex boyfriend who broke her heart and was part of the aforementioned incident.

As they travel and hike together, lots of the past is brought up. But so is there amazing chemistry. Can things be different the second time around?

The book is told in flashbacks to Brooke and Jack’s university days and I loved to see the beginning days of their relationship. The book features some heavier topics such as cancer, but the book also has some lighter moments.

Scot and Bothered by Alexandra Riley

I've seen some readers refer to this novel as a rom-com... And I just need to know... Who's *laughing*?? The longing is so thick, you'll choke on it.

This is a dual timeline, second chance romance written in 3rd person pov. The writing is so descriptive you'll feel like you're on this journey with Brooke and Jack. It's a beautiful, at times heart wrenching, love story that slowly unfolds as they trek across the the Highlands.

This was my first Alexandra Kiley book but it will not be my last.

Thank you Alexandra Riley, Harlequin Trade Publishing, Canary Street Press, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.

I had high hopes going into this book as I enjoyed Kilt Trip so much and it did not disappoint. This story is emotional, heartbreaking, sweet and such a good read. I love a good rom com but this was so much more. I love how it used both dual POV and dual timelines to explain Jack and Brooke's story. I loved not only seeing them come back together but learning what set them apart as well. From r me it made a more satisfying and heartfelt second chance romance.
Oh and just like Kilt Trip this book makes me want to book a trip to Scotland and just stay! One day I will get there!!!

🏔️🥾Scot and Bothered🥾🏔️

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4/5 stars

✨Available March 3rd ✨

🏔️Forced Proximity
🥾 Second Chance Romance
🏔️ Dual timeline and Dual POV
🥾 Only one tent

I really enjoy books that take place in a hiking setting apparently. Especially if it’s a place I want to go. I may have googled Skye hikes while reading this. This story was so cute and heartwarming and also so fun. The perfect follow up to Kilt Trip. Thank you Netgalley and Canary Street Press for a copy of this ebook in exchange for my honest review.

“After this year, life will no longer have a syllabus, there will be no grades to measure your success. You will have to define that for yourself.”

“Apparently, her desire to impress him outweighed her will to live.”

“You’re still so bright to me.”

“But how long was she going to hold on to the past? How long would she let it affect her? How much did it get to define her?”

This book made me want to book a trip to Scotland asap. It’s a dual POV, dual timeline second chance romance. The dual POV and dual timeline add some depth to the book that you don’t always get with contemporary romance. In addition to the romance, this book has beautiful scenery that will make you feel like you’re really hiking through the Isle of Skye. The story also tackles tough issues like broken trust, grief, and the fear of following your dreams. Some tropes to look forward to: forced proximity, only one bed/tent, “it’s always been you”, slow burn.

Scot and Bothered is a heartfelt, windswept adventure on the Isle of Skye! Seven years after a messy breakup at uni, Brooke and Jack are unexpectedly reunited and stuck hiking the Skye Trail together. There’s tension, tough terrain …and only one tent.

I was completely immersed in this book and finished it in a day! Some of the landmarks were tricky to picture, so I found myself looking up travel photos and watching videos of the infamous Bad Step crossing—making me appreciate the journey even more.

The dual timeline added unexpected depth to the characters while keeping the story moving at a great pace. One of my favorite lines perfectly captures Brooke’s struggle to forgive, forget, and never let go:
"He was old and new at the same time, and she couldn't reconcile the two. … It wasn't now or never, but if it wasn't now, would she ever?"

While Scot and Bothered stands on its own, as a fan of Kilt Trip, I loved catching up with the Sutherland family.

A perfect mix of adventure, emotion, and romance, Scot and Bothered is a must-read. I can’t wait to grab a paperback when it comes out on March 4!

Thank you to Harlequin Trade Publishing, Canary Street Press, and Alexandra Kiley for the complimentary ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for my honest review.

What a powerful and emotional story! I was not expecting this story and it stayed with me. I really loved the dual timeline and I always love a second chance romance. These two had to really go through it.

Scot and Bothered is a very poignant second chance romance. The emotions between Jack and Brooke were very complex, as their romance was entwined with their ambitions and dreams. Their love story began as a forbidden romance between a student and teacher, complicated and deep—their feelings for each other raw and undeniable. Everything about their relationship felt real, as they had to overcome obstacles, as well as their own doubts and fear, to give way to their love. I was obsessed with their story and all of its layers. Thank you to the publisher for providing an advance review copy.

I initially picked up Scot on the Trail expecting a lighthearted romance set against the stunning backdrop of the Isle of Skye. What I didn’t anticipate was a deeply emotional journey that would have my heart aching for most of the book. Alexandra Kiley delivers a second-chance romance packed with yearning, angst, grief, regret, and hope, all told through a beautifully crafted dual timeline and dual POV narrative from Brooke and Jack.

Brooke Sinclair, once a promising writer, had her dreams shattered when she was expelled from the University of Edinburgh. Now a ghostwriter, she has learned to stick to other people's stories—until an opportunity arises to co-write her former mentor Mhairi’s memoir about Scotland’s most challenging trek. But the job comes with an unexpected complication: Jack Sutherland, the man who not only broke her heart but also played a role in the unraveling of her writing career. As the two embark on an 80-mile trek along the Isle of Skye’s rugged Skye Trail, they are forced to confront their past, their unresolved emotions, and the possibility of a future neither thought possible.

One of the strongest aspects of this novel is its character depth. Brooke is incredibly relatable, and her reaction to the past miscommunication felt authentic for a university-aged student who believed her life’s purpose had been stolen from her. Jack, on the other hand, completely stole my heart. He’s the perfect book boyfriend—compassionate, flawed, and unwavering in his love for Brooke, even when their history is messy and complicated.

The Isle of Skye itself becomes more than just a setting; it transforms into a character of its own. Kiley’s vivid descriptions of the island’s rugged, breathtaking landscape add to the emotional weight of the story, making me long to visit even more than I already did.

The dual timeline is another highlight, allowing us to witness both the magic of Brooke and Jack’s initial connection and the pain of their separation. Seeing their love unfold while simultaneously experiencing the heartbreak of their fallout makes their journey feel incredibly real. Their slow-burn romance is paced just right, making every stolen glance and hesitant touch all the more impactful. Despite the heavy emotions, there’s a wonderful balance of hope and healing as they rediscover themselves and each other.

Ultimately, Scot on the Trail is a beautifully written story of love, loss, and second chances. Kiley crafts a romance that doesn’t just focus on rekindled passion but also on personal growth and the courage to pursue one’s dreams. While I didn’t realize this was a sequel when I picked it up, I’m now eager to go back and read the first book—not just to experience Logan’s story, but in the hopes of seeing more of Jack.

For readers who love second-chance romance, breathtaking settings, and emotional journeys that feel raw and real, this book is a must-read. Thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing | Canary Street Press for the opportunity to read this ARC.

2.5 stars. This was an ARC for NetGalley. I picked this one up because I read a previous romance from this author, and loved the Hallmark like romance with spectacular use of scenery, transporting the reader to Scotland. This book did not hit the same mark. First, the scenery that is uniquely Scotland was not front and center. This could have been set on any trail anywhere. Secondly, the love story was a bit lackluster. I don't think the multiple timelines were needed as there wasn't much build up or time given to their past relationship before it ended. The grudge that was held felt very one-sided though they both knew the risk and lost because of it. Overall, there wasn't great chemistry between the MMC and FMC. Fairly standing romance novel. #netgalley #scotandbothered #dueltimeline #secondchanceromance

Thank you so much to Canary Street Press for an early copy of Scot and Bothered!
Last year, I read Kilt Trip by Alexandria Kiley and was so excited when I saw that she was writing Scot and Bothered, which is kind of like an interconnected standalone because the male main character in this book, Jack, is brothers with the male main character in Kilt Trip, Logan.
This second chance romance follows a format similar to Love and Other Words by Christina Lauren, where the chapters flip back and fourth between then and now chapters that give the reader insight to Brooke and Jack's past relationship. When the two are brought back together 7 years later, it's kind of a lovers to enemies to lovers situation with lots of forced proximity and only one tent. 👀
There were some elements of this book that I struggled with, like the fact that for some reason, I just felt like we didn't get to see enough chemistry between Jack and Brooke, as well as the fact that this book felt a little more like women's fiction where it is a little more downcast and has a lot of elements of personal growth. This just kind of went against my expectations after reading Kilt Trip, which felt more peppy and rom-comish. All of these things definitely might just be me BUT if you liked Work in Progress by Kat Mackenzie and books that have romance but also elements of literary literature and personal growth, I think you might enjoy this book!

I really need to stop reading books that make me want to move to Scotland because at this point, I fear I actually will 😅. Like Kilt Trip, this felt like a love letter to Scotland, and now I just want to spend the rest of my life in the Highlands because, truly, is there a more beautiful place in the world?

That said, I wasn’t as invested in Brooke and Jack’s story as I wanted to be. Even with the flashbacks, I just didn’t buy into their romance. I wanted to love them so badly, but alas, I found myself way more interested in the descriptions of the Skye Trail and the stunning views, lol. Now, the ending? That absolutely made me cry—ugh! But again, I was more invested in Mhairi’s story than in how Jack and Brooke resolved their issues.

Overall, it was an okay book, and I was entertained for the most part, but mostly, it just made me want to book another flight to Scotland ASAP.

I had such a great time reading Scot and Bothered! Alexandra Kiley delivers a second-chance romance filled with sharp wit, sizzling tension, and just the right amount of angst. If you love a dynamic with history, emotional depth, and a dash of adventure, this one is a must-read.

Brooke and Jack were once close—until a falling out in university left them estranged for years. Now, fate (or sheer bad luck, if you ask Brooke) throws them together on a trip that neither can say no too, forcing them to confront everything left unsaid. Brooke is sharp, guarded, and not about to let Jack’s easygoing charm break down her walls. Jack, on the other hand, is frustratingly kind and persistent, making it impossible for Brooke to ignore the past—or the undeniable chemistry still between them.

One of my favorite things about this book was the dynamic between these two. Brooke’s grumpy, closed-off nature paired with Jack’s warmth and patience made for such a fun contrast. Their banter was equal parts biting and playful, and as much as Brooke resisted, Jack’s charm slowly chipped away at her defenses. The emotional buildup was so well done, and when things finally started to crack open between them, it was so satisfying.

If you love second-chance romances, her as the grumpy one with hidden soft spots, and Scottish adventures that might just lead to love (and him in a kilt at one point) Scot and Bothered is definitely worth picking up!

Thank you netgallery and Alexandra Kiley for this ARC.

I enjoyed Kilt Trip last year so I was excited to get this arc, and it surpassed my expectations! Scot and Bothered is a second-chance romance full of yearning and lovely Scottish scenery. Brooke is a writer afraid of her big dreams and hiding behind the stories of others. When she gets the chance to co-write her mentor's memoir, she sets off on a soul-searching trip through the Isle of Skye to bring the story to life -- but accompanying her will be Jack, her mentor Mhairi's nephew, and the man who broke Brooke's heart and ruined her life seven years ago. Told in dual timelines, we experience Brooke and Jack fall in love, deal with heartbreak, and find each other - and their dreams - all over again. The slow burn is the right amount of slow, with lots of yearning and angst. I hate a miscommunication, but it was done well and felt realistic. This story was an emotional, enjoyable read with humor, longing, and second chances in love and in life.

CW: panic attacks, cancer/grief

Thanks to NetGalley and HTP/Canary Street Press for the advance review copy!

Brooke’s dreams of seeing her original stories published but for now she is just a ghostwriter. When her mentor Mhairi McCallister needs a co-writer for her memoir about Scotland’s most challenging trek, Brooke would do anything for the opportunity—including agreeing to hike the rugged Skye Trail for authenticity’s sake, not knowing the nature photographer who’ll join her is Jack Sutherland, the man who shattered Brooke’s writing career—and her heart. Between getting sacked from the University and walking away from his family’s tour-guiding business to follow his photography dreams, Jack is desperate to prove he didn’t disappoint his family for nothing. And he can’t ignore his Aunt Mhairi’s final wishes for her memoir. Even if it means acting as guide and storyteller for the one who got away. Even if it means keeping secrets about Mhairi’s health. As Jack and Brooke head into the solitude of the sweeping Scottish landscape, they’re forced to confront old feelings that haven’t disappeared with time. But can two weeks and eighty miles heal years of unspoken hurt and offer a second chance at the end of the trail?


Thoughts
The cover of this book makes it seem like it’s a light fluffy rom com when it’s actually a more thought provoking story on forgiveness, rebuilding trust, and following your dreams, even if they are scary. The love the main characters have for Mhairi is beautiful and the way it’s written makes you feel like you know and love her as well.

This book excels with a captivating story and excellent writing. It is heart wrenching and deeply emotional and leaves an impression you won’t forget. The use of duel POV and dual timelines elevates the story. I think this is one of the best second chance romances I’ve read.

"She wanted to impress him but didn't feel like she had to, and that was remarkably special in her world."

Thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing for access to this eARC in exchange for an honest review!
This book follows Jack and Brooke as they have to pair up to work on a memoir, despite their bad history. Brooke had always dreamed of being a writer, but when her plans were derailed, she became a ghostwriter. But when her mentor needs a co-writer for her memoir, she agrees to go on a rugged hike for authenticity, not knowing that her companion would be Jack, the man who ruined her writing career and her heart. Jack is desperate to prove that he can make photography work as a career. When his aunt is in need of a nature photographer for her memoir, which is her final wish. As Jack and Brooke head into the Scottish landscape, they have to confront their complex feelings about each other and themselves. But can the solitude and miles really heal years of hurt?

"I'm a ghost. This faded version of myself."
"You're still so bright to me."

Okay, so I can't lie, this book took me a very long time to get through. I thought it was good, and the emotional aspects were done very well. I love reading from the perspective of a writer, and the self-discovery that these characters were going through. I love a man who yearns, and Jack Sutherland YEARNS for Brooke. I absolutely adored their romance! The Scottish landscape was done really well, but at times I did find it difficult to picture the setting. The one reason I wasn't in love with this story was because of the abundance of perspectives that were written in it. There were present-day perspectives from both main characters and past perspectives from both characters. Because of this, it was difficult at times to keep up and stay engaged with the story. This may not be an issue for some people, but it was for me sometimes.

Closed door modifications: Chapters 23 and 35

Scot and Bothered is a second chance romance story where the main characters rekindle their romance on a trail in Scotland.

Exes Brooke, a writer, and Jack, a photographer, are forced to spend time together, hiking a trail in Scotland while working on a book project for a mutual friend. The challenges on the trail bring the two main characters closer as they rekindle their romance and work through past issues.

The flashbacks between then and now were fun to show how the romance began and where it went wrong. I didn't feel like I understood how high the stakes were for Brooke in dating Jack. There wasn't a lot of background on her family or home life or too many references to her scholarship until it was too late.

I wish the book would have had more interactions on the trail. The characters they met along the way were a great part of the story.

Thanks to Netgalley and Alexandra Kiley for the ARC copy in exchange for my honest opinion.

4.5 ⭐️ | 1.5 🌶️

A beautiful tale of forgiveness, grief, and chasing your happy, set amongst the Scottish Highlands.

📖 Brooke is a ghostwriter who is helping to write her mentor’s memoir. When the mentor, Mhairi, tells her she’s missing the heart of the story and needs to go hike the trail in her tales, Brooke agrees. The only problem? The photographer who will be accompanying her is none other than Jack, the man who broke her heart and upended her life 7 years ago.

💚 Second chance romance
💚 Dual timeline
💚 Photographer X Writer
💚 Only one tent
💚 Strangers to lovers turned enemies to lovers
💚 Scottish MMC & setting
💚 Angst
💚 3rd person POV

I requested this arc on NetGalley because of how much I enjoyed Kilt Trip, and this was another smash hit for me!

The story of Jack and Brooke was messy and filled with misunderstanding, angst, and heartbreak, which led to such a beautiful second chance HEA.

I absolutely loved the way the author wrote the dual timeline and slowly unraveled the couple’s past. You get to watch them fall in love, experience heartbreak, and fall in love all over again.

The side characters in this story were all so amazing. I loved Mhairi and Jack’s entire family and their friend group in college. Everyone brought their own humor and zest to the story.

My favorite part of this story was the discussion of potential and chasing your own dreams and not doing what’s easy or what others expect of you. This was such a wonderful message and each MC had their own journey towards realizing their dreams that they helped each other find which I thought was very special.

🔥 There was so much tension and pining between Jack and Brooke that kept building until they finally hit their breaking point. I lived for all the little touches and *almost* moments between the two. Their chemistry was amazing.

TLDR : Alexandra Kiley’s writing not only gave me such wanderlust for Scottland and Skye, but also gave me such a pep talk to make sure I’m living MY dreams and not someone else’s.

⚠️ check TWs - discussion of family illness

Thank you to the author, NetGalley, and Harlequin Trade Publishing for sending me a complimentary e-copy of Scot and Bothered so I could share my honest review. 🖤