The third book in the Highland, Georgia romantic comedy series from Laura Trentham, A Highlander is Coming to Town, full of love, laughs…and highlanders! You better watch out. . . Holt Pierson is dreading Christmas. His parents absconded to Florida for the season and left him to handle the family farm which will be his one day–whether he wants it or not. Driven by duty, Holt has always … it or not. Driven by duty, Holt has always followed the path expected of him. But lately, he’s been questioning what he wants and where he belongs. Will assuming the responsibility of the Pierson farm make him happy or is there something–or someone–else out in the wider world calling to him?
To Claire Smythe, the Scottish lead singer of a touring band, Highland, Georgia, is the perfect place to hide . . .until a very handsome and deeply curious Holt begins to ask all the questions Claire doesn’t want to answer. As Holt draws Claire out from under and into the fabric of small-town life, can Claire put the past behind her and embrace the unexpected gifts of the season–including the new and lasting love?
“Laura Trentham creates a romance that is both extremely sensual and phenomenal.”
—Fresh Fiction
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Very good book. I enjoyed my return trip to Highland, Georgia, and the chance to see Holt get his happy ever after. I felt bad for him in the first book, A Highlander Walks Into a Bar, when he lost Izzy to Alasdair. In that book, and the following one, A Highlander in a Pickup, he exhibits some restlessness, wondering if there is more to life. At the beginning of this story, Holt runs the family farm on his own while his parents travel the country in an RV. On a trip into town, Holt meets the prickly Claire when he rescues her groceries from a broken bag. A short time later, he comes to the rescue again when her bike has a flat. He is intrigued by the contrasts he sees in her – a bit of mystery, a crusty attitude, and hints of fun and flirtation.
Claire made her first appearance in the last book as the singer for the band The Scunners at the Highland Games. She traveled with them for several years but parted ways at the end of the games. Since then, she has worked as a caregiver for an elderly lady, Ms. Meadows. In the few months that Claire has been there, she has done her best to avoid spending much time in town. She has a pretty big secret, and she doesn’t want to take a chance on revealing it. Claire has some big decisions to make about her future before going home to Scotland after Christmas. The last thing she needs is to get involved with a good-looking farmer.
I enjoyed seeing the relationship develop between Claire and Holt. They don’t seem like much of a match at first. Claire is aloof, sometimes rude, but hides a good heart. Holt is handsome, charming, and seemingly unflappable. From the moment he met her, Holt was determined to get to know Claire better. In their first encounters, he is intrigued by the fun side that pokes through her prickly crust. He takes every opportunity to spend time with her until he breaks down her walls entirely. Claire doesn’t know quite what to make of Holt at first. No matter how rude she is to him, it just rolls off his back. It isn’t long before she enjoys his company.
The sparks of attraction that were there from the start soon burst into flame. The more time they spend together, the closer they get. It is soon apparent that both of them have been lonely and that being together makes a big difference in their lives. But Claire has been clear from the beginning that she has to go back to Scotland, which is warring with her growing feelings for Holt. An unexpected arrival in Highland accelerates decision time for Claire. I enjoyed this part so much because the growth in confidence and maturity that Claire has experienced surfaces in a very satisfying way. I wasn’t surprised by her decision and loved how easy it was for her to do. I loved the follow-on of her visit to Holt and the happiness that resulted. The epilogue was excellent, with a few more surprises and a great deal of fun.
I love the small town of Highland. It was heartwarming to see how Claire was eased into the fabric of the town’s life. She never stood a chance of staying aloof once she started hanging out with Holt. I had to laugh at her encounter with Anna in the drugstore, which was an unusual way to begin a friendship. I liked how Iain and the band helped Claire get back into her music. But my favorite resident was Ms. Meadows. Under that crusty exterior was a heart of gold, and I loved that she took care of Claire just as much as Claire did of her. I had to laugh at her protectiveness when Holt first showed up, and how his charm even worked on her. There were some wonderfully heartwarming scenes between Ms. Meadows and Claire.
I liked that characters in this book, I liked Holt he was just this good guy with a good heart and was willing to help Claire even when she didn’t want it. Claire she was running from a future she wasn’t she she wanted but the was also not use to letting people close so she came off as a bit of a witch. She however would not stop at anything to help Mrs. Meadows. I liked Mrs. Meadows she was a pistol. There was adult situations in this book, over all was a super fun read and was super enjoyable. I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley. I was under no obligation to post a review and have given my honest opinion
A great book. Claire is hiding out in Highland Georgia while she contemplates what to do about her future. Holt is a homegrown farm boy who is exactly where he wants to be. Claire is skittish and it takes a lot of gently coaxing on the part of Holt to get her to relax, trust her instincts and trust in him and others. When she does she blossoms and is able to open her heart to love.
Often with a favorite author, I won’t read the blurb of an upcoming book before I read it. More so when it’s part of a series. I know what I’m in for with already visiting the town. So I just usually start reading. It’s never been a problem until this book. I was so lost in the beginning. I felt like I was missing something and it caused me to have a slight issue getting into it.
I think in part that was due to the cover and title. I kinda thought the book was about a new male character. That’s was on me.
Once I realized it was about Holt I was thrilled I really like him and have wanted his story since he was first introduced. At first, I wasn’t sure if Claire was the right woman for him. He’s such a sweet, wonderful guy that I wanted someone special for him. It took a bit for me to warm up to Claire and think she is special. But I eventually did.
I liked how Claire took care of Mrs. Meadows. It showed her softer side. She worked hard to make her happy and it showed in how much Mrs. Meadows liked her. I’m so glad that living with her taught her to stand on her own two feet.
Holt also helped with that. He showed her how life should be. They spent a wonderful time enjoying the holidays and being with each other. You really see how nice these two are together. I have a wonderful time visiting with the people of Highland.
A Highlander is Coming to Town is a cute sweet read. I love the dynamics between Claire and Ms. Meadows. Their relationship is one of give and take and they really help each other out more then they realize. You will love Ms. Meadows and her ways. Claire is struggling to figure out what she really wants out of life. She never expected Holt and the decisions she has to make when it comes down to her family. Holt is a sweetheart that will make your heart happy. I love how he brings Claire back to life and doesn’t give up on her. This is such a sweet read that you won’t be able to put down.
Claire needs to decide what to do!
Claire Smythe AKA Claire Glennallen was staying in Highland Georgia as live in help for Ms. Meadows until she decided what she wanted to to do with her inheritance that she would receive when she turned twenty-five. Claire just wanted to stay under the radar of the citizens of Highland but when she met Holt Pierson who lived on the farm next door when he helped her with her bicycle. Holt was attracted to Claire, but he knew that she was keeping secrets from everyone in Highland.
A Highlander is Coming to Town is warm comfortable Christmas romance where falling in love makes the season.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
A Scottish lassie facing a big, life-altering decision: sweet, small-town vibes
4-4.5stars
I was really looking forward to Highland, Georgia farmer Holt’s story after reading A Highlander in a Pickup. Although this focuses more on one couple and less on the other residents of their small town than the previous book, the overall tone is warm, friendly neighbors helping neighbors and with shiny Christmas decorations and a day-long Robbie Burns festival to highlight the area’s Scottish connection. I enjoyed it.
Claire, Holt’s love interest, is a plucky, independent recluse hiding from her obligations back in Scotland. She’s a bit of mystery that he’s delighted to investigate, all while getting to know his shut-in neighbor who Claire cares for. The attraction was established even before this story opens when they spy each other at the local Highland Games. I liked that the heat built gradually and did not dominate their story. Claire’s search for her right place in the world and the tug between her family obligations in Glasgow and her growing attachment to Highland and its residents was just as important. Claire’s fight to make her own way and not depend on her wealthy family proves she’s got backbone and the trappings of wealth and prestige are something she neither covets nor needs. As to Holt himself, here’s a man who knows his place in life and what he wants. Plus he’s kind, respectful, has handsome knees (very important for those kilt-wearing occasions!) and ready to try his hand at fancy cooking if it will further his acquaintance with Claire. What a treasure.
Thanks to St. Martin’s Press and NetGalley for providing an advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
This is wonderful, fun small town romance. It is the third in this series but all of them can be read as stand alone. Highland Georgia is a small community where they hold Highland Holiday celebrations.
And a Highland festival during the summer.
Claire Smythe was the lead singer with a band called the Scunners. She performed during the summer festival. She doesn’t want anyone to know who she really is as her folks expect her to join the family business when she turns 25. Her birthday is only a few weeks away and then she will have to decide what she is going to do. She grew up in a very wealthy family but always felt like she didn’t belong.
She was sent to boarding schools, and has very little family ties due to her parents always being busy or gone. After being left alone in this small town she takes a job as live in help to an elderly widow.
Ms Meadows will steal your heart, she is cranky, sharp-tongued and lonely.
Holt Pierson makes this story, every woman wants to meet a guy like this at least once.
He is handsome as sin, with a big heart. He was raised in a very loving and close family. The Pierson farm and family is well known by all. He has always done what was expected of him and
just now is wondering if taking over the farm is what he wants to do. He helps Claire when her bike
and ride to Ms Meadows. Claire doesn’t trust anyone but as fate steps in she finds herself needing him more and more
This is a fast read with lots of fun, witty times between the two. As both learn of secrets of the other and the attraction is off the wall. Will Claire learn to finally trust someone and learn what love is. Will Holt be able to break down the walls she set up not to get hurt ? Will she give up everything and stay or leave for the money.
Do get a copy and find out you will not be sorry. I have read two of the three stories and will for sure be getting the missing one. All are fun stories.
I received and ARC from the author and would like to thank her .
This is my honest opinion and am voluntarily giving it.
A Highlander is Coming to Town by Laura Trentham
Highland, Georgia series book 3. Contemporary romance. Can be read as a stand-alone romance. Previous book primary characters do make cameo appearances.
Claire took a caretaker job in Highland, GA after quitting her singing lead in the Scottish band. Holt helps Claire with a flat bicycle tire and the two find their attraction growing the more time they spend together.
An engaging romance rich with phrases like “The oblivion of pleasure was nigh.“
Smart and satisfying.
Excerpt
“Whatcha doing?” The whispered question came with a puff of breath along her cheek. She let out a squeal, which drew everyone’s eyes toward her. Exactly the sort of attention she tried to avoid.
Holt Pierson was hunched behind her, his chin nearly on her shoulder. Her hood had hidden her from over-curious, prying eyes, but also masked his approach.
“You scared the dickens out of me. What are you doing in a library?” […]
“I can read. And write, when I put my mind to it. Shocking, I know.” He winked. The tease in his voice was like a favorite shirt he wore with ease. Did the man ever get defensive or ruffled? “That was badly done of me. Pardon,” she said stiffly. “I shouldn’t have assumed just because you look like you do, you don’t possess a decent number of brain cells.”
His eyebrows bounced up and his smile took on a wicked crook. He leaned down, and she caught the scent of fresh laundry and shaving cream. The slash of tanned skin between his collar and his jaw beckoned her closer. What would his skin feel like against her lips?
“A decent number of brain cells? You’re making me blush,” he said. “But I’m more interested in what I look like in your eyes. Do tell.”
He looked like a delicious decadent treat she wanted to devour.”
Excerpt from A Highlander is Coming to Town by Laura Trentham.
I received a copy of this from NetGalley. I also purchased a copy to share.
I debated whether I should read a Christmas book in the dead of summer, but figured what the heck!! This is my first read from this author, and even though this is the third book in the series I was able to comfortably read it as a standalone.
A contemporary romance that was a sweet, light-hearted, romantic comedy set in a small town that was light on the drama which I enjoyed. Wonderful characters with a happy ending.
“Coming out of your shell is not the same as facing your problems.”
Started off slow for me, but I’m glad I stuck with it. It soon took my notice and had me turning the pages. Characters are well written. Their relationship grew slowly. I liked the town dynamics and how Claire was soon entwined with town though she tried to hid. Both main characters needed to come to terms as to where they really belonged. Interesting secondary characters, especially Ms. Meadows. A bit of Scottish and southern charm and a “Christmas miracle”.
Reviewed by Comfy Chair Books/Lisa Reigel (September 5, 2020)
ARC provided by Publisher via Netgalley
This was such a fun read and although there were some moments of angst, the humour and the delightful season of Christmas balanced it out.
I adored Holt’s character, such a warm hearted man and he’s exactly what Claire needs!! Claire has a secret and a decision she needs to make which will affect her whole life. The storyline pretty much deals with that and it all takes place amidst the Christmas season in Highland, Georgia. I loved the small town feeling, the people, the traditions, etc.
I received an ARC of this book via NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
3.5 star Review of A Highlander Is Coming To Town by Laura Trentham
Laura Trentham is a new author to me. I love books that centre around; it’s the most magical time of the year and also happens to be my most favourite holiday. It’s a time for family and friends to get together and celebrate life.
This is Holt Pierson and Claire Smythe’s story and it was an enjoyable read. Holt is at a crossroads, torn between his duty to his family and their farm and wanting to spread his wings and leave Highland, Georgia. Claire is a Scottish singer, touring with her band and wants to get away from it all.
When Holt and Claire meet, he is drawn to the mysterious woman who doesn’t want to answer his questions. As their relationship develops, will Claire be happy to settle in a small town? What will happen when her secrets are revealed?
This was a sweet, cute story with some romance, but not a lot of the holiday season which is what I expected when I chose this book.
I received a copy of this book, through the publisher via NetGalley
To be honest, it took me a bit to get into this one. I wasn’t exactly sure the location I was in. It was possibly just something I missed. Anyway, I liked the story. Claire was in Highland to escape, but I like that it was hard for her to escspe the community. She and Holt definitely had a slow burn and she didn’t make it easy for him. He was sweet, and sweet on Claire. Their bedroom chemistry was strong. I think that those in Highland gave Claire the love and roots she was seeking.
3.5 stars
Copy received via Netgalley for an honest review
I have enjoyed the previous stories in this Highland, Georgia series, and I was really looking forward to this Christmas time jaunt back to the town and it’s citizens.
Whilst I liked it, I wasn’t as enamoured with it as I was the first two books.
And I think for the most part, the problem for me was Claire. I liked her for the most part, but I did get sick of her “poor little rich girl” attitude for so much of the story. I got it, I know why she hid who she was from people. I am sure I would too to some extent.
But ugh it ended up grating on me. This could just be me though. I wanted to shake some sense into her at times.
Holt was just all swoon in a kilt. Get out of the way Claire, I will take him off your hands!
I loved seeing more of the couples from the previous books, I loved seeing their relationships growing, I loved the banter between everyone.
So whilst this one fell a little flat for me, I hope we get more visits to Highland in the future.
I have read the first two books in this series and I think that is why I liked this book. I wanted Holt to get his happily ever after. I didn’t care so much for Claire and her wishy-washy ways or her having to hide from her family. She isn’t the most likeable character but she’s not awful. Holt and Ms. Meadows are the ones who save this book. I do like that we get an update on Anna and Iain though nothing on Izzy. This books always bring me back to the warmth I felt when I was in Scotland. Though they take place in Georgia, it still has that Scottish vibe. You can read this as a stand alone or as part of the series.
*I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley and am voluntarily giving my honest opinion*
This one concludes the Highland, Georgia trilogy, and I must say I’ve enjoyed all three for their humor, heartwarming stories and location setting/lovable secondary characters.
This one is Holt’s (a native who helps farm his parents’ land) and Claire’s (an ex-band singer/heiress to a Scottish dynasty who is hiding out while contemplating her future) story. Claire learns to trust and embrace a new community family, and Holt makes a few decisions of his own.
I love Trentham’s ability to write simple, satisfying love stories that tug at your heart. My only con? The ending seemed a bit rushed, but no biggie. Great conclusion to the series.
My thanks to #NetGalley and #StMartinsPress for providing me the ARC. The opinions are strictly my own.
I received an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
I enjoyed this story about Claire and Holt overall, but I wanted to slap the crazy out of Claire and get her to realize how awesome Holt was and how ridiculous she was being. But, it (of course) all worked out in the end.
I had a little difficulty following along with the story line – there were times when I felt that there was a lot of unnecessary info included in the story. Otherwise it would’ve been a 5 star read.
What a sweet, charming romance!
I absolutely adore each of the Highland, Georgia stories! It’s a delightful southern small town that celebrates everything Scottish, every day. The first two books took place in the summer when the town hosts their annual Highland Games Festival, but this one takes place in the fall/winter a couple months after the last book ends.
Claire, who sang with her band at the festival, stays behind to both hide from her family obligations in Scotland and to figure out what she’s going to do about the next chapter in her life. She wasn’t prepared for the sexy, charming Holt Pierson, a man as tied to his family’s land as she is to her family’s legacy.
This easy-going story is simply delightful at every turn. Holt and Claire’s sparkling chemistry pulls them both out of their comfort zones, while the Pierson family’s history with Claire’s employer adds substantial depth to all the related characters. Seeing Iain and Anna again was pure joy on every level and makes this a must-read book for anyone who read A Highlander in a Pickup.
Full of the Christmas spirit with an ode to Robert Burns, this is a wonderful holiday story with a HEA for everyone. And in case you think there’s not enough southernisms included, here’s Holt’s mother’s answer when he says their new guests might make dinner awkward:
His mom gave him an eye roll. “I hosted a luncheon between the Baptist and Methodist women’s groups. I can handle awkward.”
There are many more instances of folksy humor and small town charm throughout the story. Highland, Georgia may be portrayed as idyllic, but that’s the exact kind of escapism that I read for. Reading this book was like spending a lazy Sunday in a hammock with a pitcher of sweet tea. I couldn’t have loved it more. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
“A Highlander is Coming to Town” by Laura Trentham
Yes, I fell in love with Ms. Meadows, Claire, & Holt, the primary players in this story. And, I do have a soft spot in my heart for this town called Highland, GA. I do love clean, sweet, romance stories that just worm their way into my wee little readers-world and keep me company for a while. This is an easy read with the tugs on the heart strings, and the joys of sometimes the right people are in the right place at the right time. I hope you will enjoy this story as much as I did. This is a worthy read. Happy Reading ! !
note: I received an ARC of this story from the publisher via NetGalley. This review reflects my opinions of this story.