Thomas Moore, heir to the glamorous New York department store Moore’s, has everything. Everything but a sense of humor. Probably why he’s so often compared to his philandering crook of a father.
Alice Truman, recently promoted from the sales floor, is determined to prove her worth. Even if that means smiling in the face of the arrogant and too-sexy-for-his-own-good Thomas Moore, who seems to think her unfit for her new position.
Avoidance works wonders until Alice’s best friend plans an Elvis-themed destination wedding with Thomas’ brother—a concept the modern Mr. Darcy loathes.
Throw in a hairless cat, a calamitous bachelorette party and some questionable cocktails, and things become… complicated. And when things get complicated, anyone but the boss would be better.
Sometimes life is full of surprises, especially when you least expect them…
Born into the Scottish Clan MacBain and the 17th century ancestral home, Drumblair Castle, Liv MacBain has always dreamt of leaving the ancient homestead and becoming her own person in the world of fashion. From a young age, she worshipped the trailblazing designs of the haute couture glitterati, hoping one day to join them. With older brother Kerr, the rightful heir, Liv has been free to spread her wings. Fast forward. Liv, is now 28 years old, working at a high-end fashion house and living her dream life in New York. She’s never been happier. Until everything changes with one devastating phone call from her brother, Kerr, that brings her rushing back to Scotland. Old friends and adversaries resurface and Liv faces a difficult decision that could mean her dream future can no longer be a reality. Or can you have your castle and your career?
Published Date: 4 April 2023
My Review
Liv MacBain, a Scottish native, was born into the esteemed MacBain Clan, whose 17th-century ancestral seat, Drumblair Castle, is set to be inherited by her brother. Despite her lineage, Liv’s heart lay in fashion design, leading her to New York where she’s been thriving in the fashion world. Her life takes a turn when she learns of her beloved mother’s death and hurries back home to Scotland, apprehensive that her reckless brother, Kerr, would sell the castle to support his lavish lifestyle. Her worst fears come true as she discovers Kerr’s laid off much of the staff and is already entertaining selling offers. However, her mother’s will reveals a final surprise – Liv is the rightful inheritor of the castle, but under certain conditions. As she navigates this overwhelming situation, Liv finds support in old friends, castle employees, and family members.
Balancing the allure of a successful career in the glamorous New York fashion scene and the familial obligations tied to her historic Scottish castle, Liv is torn between two worlds. The story traces her journey of self-discovery as she struggles to reconcile her professional ambitions and her love for her homeland. The endearing characters, particularly the dogs Wilf and Marley, captivate the reader’s heart – the author’s personal anecdotes about the choice of dogs further amplifying this charm. The narrative is lightened by a sprinkle of romantic elements, with the friends-to-lovers trope being particularly enjoyable. Overall, it’s a delightful and heartwarming read.
My Sanctuary 