Quick Synopsis-Brooke Sinclair’s dream of being a published author derailed when she was expelled from the University of Edinburgh seven years ago. Now a ghostwriter, she sticks to other people’s stories. But when her college 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.

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?

Song This Reminds Me Of – Treacherous by Taylor Swift

Publication Date – March 4, 2025

Content Notes – This is an adult romance with sexy times on page. There is also a scene with a panic attack.

Spicy Rating – 🌶️🌶️🌶️

Overall Rating – ⭐⭐⭐.5 out of 5

Review – THE YEARNING. This book is so angsty and wonderful. I loved the longing looks and stolen touching. This story is told between when Brook and Jack first get together 7 years ago and present day. Both timelines are full of delicious pining. The way they support and calm each other felt so grounded in real life. I could feel these characters coming to life. The angst of them wanting to be with each other was tangible, that feeling of want was a whole separate character in this book.

The other big character in this story is Scotland. I loved the history and landscapes that are described throughout the story. Jack’s family owns a tour company and has grown up learning the lore of the land. He uses this lore and history to not just woo Brooke but also bring the setting of Scotland to life. I felt like I was with them on their hike.

One of the only reasons this wasn’t a five-star read for me was Brooke didn’t feel fully fleshed out. We get this really rich backstory for Jack with his family and their expectations. But Brooke doesn’t really get the same treatment. We get some background on her parents also being outdoorsy and really supportive, but wouldn’t they have had some concerns with their daughter not completing her degree in another country? Also, when she doesn’t finish her degree how can she even stay in the country? She isn’t from Scotland. These two big questions just irked me. It felt like a miss on some character development.

If you want a quick longing romance, this is the book for you.

Thanks to NetGalley and Harlequin Publishing for the advanced copy. All opinions are my own.