The Highland Lodge Getaway by Julie Shackman

***Review***

When it comes to finding that perfect book to kick off the festive season, I consider myself somewhat of a connoisseur. However, Julie Shackman’s The Highland Lodge Getaway took me by surprise. From the moment I turned the first page, I was transported to the enchanting world of Craig Brae, a picturesque Scottish town that becomes the backdrop for a heartwarming Christmas romance.

Lottie Grant, our spirited protagonist, has an unwavering passion for all things Christmas. Her dedication shines through as she works tirelessly at the beloved Christmas Crackers shop, spreading holiday cheer throughout her quaint town. But when the shop is sold, leaving Lottie in a state of uncertainty, I couldn’t help but feel her despair. The loss of a dream can be devastating, and Julie Shackman captures this emotion with poignant authenticity.

However, fate has a way of intervening when we least expect it. Lottie’s life takes an unexpected turn when she’s offered the opportunity to manage a set of luxury wooden cabins, just in time for the holiday season. This twist of fate propels Lottie on a journey filled with snow, twinkling lights, and, of course, the moody and enigmatic Blake Dempster.

What truly sets The Highland Lodge Getaway apart is its ability to evoke the essence of Christmas from the very first page. The descriptions are nothing short of phenomenal, immersing the reader in a world of snowy landscapes and cozy cabins. Shackman’s vivid imagery made me long for a hot cup of cocoa, a warm blanket, and a crackling fire.

Lottie Grant is a character anyone with a fondness for Christmas will adore. Her relatable nature and genuine passion for the holiday season make her an endearing protagonist. As a fellow Christmas enthusiast, I found myself nodding in agreement with her every sentiment. The cozy cabin atmosphere, coupled with the enchanting winter vibes, is nothing short of immaculate.

One of the highlights of this book for me was the inclusion of two of my favorite tropes: enemies to lovers and forced proximity. Lottie’s determination to change Blake’s outlook on Christmas is heartwarming and sets the stage for a beautifully crafted love story. I savored every moment as their relationship evolved amidst the snowy landscape.

The Scottish Highlands provide the perfect backdrop for this cozy seasonal read. The weeks leading up to Christmas in a small town create a wonderfully atmospheric setting, oozing with holiday charm. While the plot may follow some familiar Hallmark/Lifetime storylines, it manages to infuse its own unique charm.

As much as I adored Lottie, I must admit that I blew hot and cold with her character at times. Her passionate and hot-headed nature occasionally bordered on being too overwhelming. However, her flaws also made her more relatable, as none of us are perfect, especially when it comes to matters of the heart.

While the story started strong, there were moments when the pacing felt slightly off. Some characters seemed to disappear from the narrative for extended periods, leaving me curious about their fates. Additionally, Lottie’s impulsive decisions, such as driving into the woods to meet strangers, felt risky and somewhat unrealistic, though it all miraculously worked out in the end.

A significant critique I have concerns Blake’s character. His behavior, especially in regards to the cabin project, felt somewhat unrealistic. The dynamics of his involvement and partnership with Lottie did not align with typical business practices. It left me questioning the credibility of certain aspects of the story.

Despite these minor flaws, The Highland Lodge Getaway delivers on its promise of a heartwarming Christmas tale. Julie Shackman skillfully weaves a narrative filled with hope, love, and the magic of the holiday season. The sense of community in the small town of Craig Brae is palpable, and it’s impossible not to be drawn into its warm embrace.

In conclusion, The Highland Lodge Getaway is a delightful read that captures the essence of Christmas in the Scottish Highlands. While it may tread familiar territory with some well-worn tropes, its genuine charm and cozy atmosphere make it a must-read for anyone looking to rediscover the magic of the season. So, curl up with this book, a cup of hot cocoa, and let the enchanting world of Craig Brae sweep you away into a heartwarming Christmas romance that will leave you with a warm, fuzzy feeling long after the final page.