REVIEW
Donna Ashcraft never ceases to amaze, inspire and uplift my heart with every special book of hers she releases. True, I am a huge fan of her romantic character relationship focused stories set in stunning landscapes. The love for animals, need for fresh starts and solving life’s conundrums whether it be finding that perfect job, residence or partner with whom to share their lives— are relatable concerns at the core of these wonderful novels. I keep saying each upcoming release is my favourite but truly this Christmas one Winter Wishes in the Scottish Highlands is without doubt at the very top of my list like a crowning star on a Christmas Tree! Shining with hope, healing and happiness, it not only offers a wonderful reading experience but also some great advice that all of us can take on board when facing trials.
The story is divided into two viewpoints: one by Ivy Heart and the other by Ross Ballentine. These two are destined to cross paths, create sparks, bring change and set the stars in order.
Ivy is a hard working single thirty-year old, focused on stepping up in her career. Well, that is what her successful surgeon mother wants for her…but Ivy has other wishes. She is happy working with plants, being knee deep in earth like her late father who inspired and taught her about greenery and flowers. Her name is a clue, too. But I am getting ahead of myself! Ivy and her mom have been through some rough times which have made her mother super sensitive and fearful of her daughter’s future. She wants her to a have a ‘proper career’ to sustain her. And Ivy does not want to disappoint or worry her mother (who has had a health scare) so she takes on a temporary job as PA with Lady Miriam Ballentine with the intention of gaining a prestigious traineeship (Financial Trader Programme) in London once Miriam’s regular PA is off her maternity break. But she must complete a task first. She must locate and bring home the estranged grandson, Ross. Brother Simon has turned down the Laird title he has been groomed for since he was a child. Miriam, of course, wants to keep tradition going. But Simon has had enough of all the restrictions and stresses put on his life from his grandmother. This causes her to focus on the younger grandson. She tells Ivy that he must take up the title now, so she wants him to come home by Christmas so she can make her announcement. But we wonder of her motives. And will he be convinced to come back? Especially since he left abruptly.
Ross Ballentine is a free-spirited nature lover with two unusual pets. He happily works at the Christmas Resort taking customers on nature trips and camping events. Five years earlier, he ran away from his roots at Hawthorn Castle, heavily weighted with guilt. He blames himself for the death of his parents that happened when he was a child. But is he really responsible? He feels his grandmother and brother both blame him and although there are no words from them that say this, he imagines it in the way they look at him. His only escape while living at the Castle, was the garden where he gained solace and felt peace. But he knows to stay there with his remaining family would only remind him of what they’d all lost. So, he takes up a position at the Resort where he keeps mostly to himself. Except he takes an interest in old man Grizzle who he tries to help without him knowing. I enjoyed Grizzle. He is a comical character who denies his need for assistance. His eyes are bad but he won’t see an optometrist. He keeps buying glasses online with hopes one set will work! Even though he is grumpy and gruff, he has a good heart. A heart, though, that also needs mending.
When Ivy crash lands into these characters lives at the Christmas Resort, everything changes. There are lots of clashes and sparks but this adventure for Ivy starts out with her mission to obtain Lady Miriam’s grandson, give him a message and try to lure him back to Hawthorn Castle. But as she gets to know Ross, she begins to see his point of view. Being ever hopeful, though, she tries to reason with him to ignore his reluctance to return. Family is everything to her and she knows that loss can come at any time and it is important to seize the day. Her heart wants to see Ross restored with his brother and grandmother. She sees his situation through her own experiences but also wonders at what will happen if he returns. And what happens is quite unexpected.
While Ross and Ivy become closer, he also shines a light on her motive to climb up the ladder to a position that is not the best for her. Her love of plants and nature is re-awakened while staying at the Christmas Resort and partaking of activities with Ross. She must decide which path to follow: one she wants or one her mother wants for her.
This is a deeply moving story about choices, motives and denying or following your heart, plus the consequences of each. There are some very real issues laid bare that make this story multi layered. It is not just a cute light hearted Christmas tale. It expresses maturity in making the right decisions for the individual, even at the risk of rejection or disappointing others; having the courage to be yourself and choose your own path to find peace and happiness.
I loved the fact that Ivy’s mom gets her using a motivational coaching app that sends out these fantastic messages of encouragement. The words always manage to provide insight or advice at the right moment.
A few characters from past Christmas releases are mentioned: one being a beloved Donkey! There are some wonderful festive Christmas scenes, too, which I have not mentioned but the spirit of the season definitely is here in the sleigh rides, tree trimming and mouth-watering scents of fresh baked mince pies! I love the fact that although characters have been wounded by past events, they become open to change and in doing so find hope, healing and renewal of relationships. Families are sewn back together to celebrate the season after learning important lessons.
I encourage everyone who loves a well written family Christmas story with substance and likeable characters (even the over bearing grumpy ones!) with relatable issues and solvable problems, to get a copy of this magnificent novel that captured my heart, made me think, stirred a few tears and definitely made me smile with its happy ending. 5 Festive Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for a review copy.
