Review of Scotch on the Rocks (The Macabe Brothers, #2) by Emma Hart
I find myself consistently drawn to the small-town charm of romance books, especially when they’re laced with the complexities of tangled relationships and unforgettable characters. So, when I picked up Scotch on the Rocks, the highly-anticipated sequel to Whisky Business by Emma Hart, I was eagerly optimistic. The convergence of Miss Hart’s knack for heartfelt storytelling and the intriguing setup of forbidden love had me hooked from the get-go. However, while it started with the promise of an intoxicating romance, the latter pages left me wishing for a stronger finish.
At its core, Scotch on the Rocks showcases the delicate dance between Juniper Ross and Callum Macabe, framed by a backdrop of small-town life on a picturesque island. Juniper, still reeling from her past engagement with Alistair Macabe (Callum’s brother), has sworn off all things Macabe. But, as often happens in love stories, life has other plans. Callum, the town’s golden boy—selfless, charming, and irresistibly attractive—has languished in the shadows of his brother’s past with Juniper. Together, they navigate a simmering tension that is palpable from the very first meeting.
For the initial three-quarters of the book, I was enthralled. Juniper and Callum’s witty banter and undeniable chemistry provided a rich narrative that drew me deeper into their world. The exploration of their complicated history, marked by missed connections and lingering feelings, kept me fascinated. However, it was during the climactic Whisky Celebration that the narrative began to take an unexpected turn. Callum’s jealousy shifted from relatable yearning to something that felt a bit obsessive, altering the tone of their budding romance. This shift was jarring and left me feeling uneasy, as what felt sweetly nostalgic transformed into something resembling a red flag.
Moreover, the character development took a hit. Juniper, who had been characterized by emotional distance and a strong sense of self, suddenly felt inconsistent. Her abrupt transition from maintaining boundaries to calling Fiona "Mom" was unexpected, lacking the gradual buildup that would have rendered it more impactful. It felt like a significant, emotional shift that needed more careful handling to resonate effectively.
Emma Hart’s writing remains engaging throughout, with a warm tone that invites readers into the characters’ lives. The first part of the book flows with a delightful mix of humor, yearning, and charm—qualities I genuinely appreciated. However, the pacing faltered towards the end as the storyline took a dramatic turn, affecting the overall experience.
Despite my mixed feelings about the latter part of the novel, I still find myself eagerly anticipating the next installment in the Macabe Brothers series. Based on the groundwork laid in this book, I am particularly interested to see what lies ahead for Alistair and, hopefully, getting a glimpse of Heather’s much-deserved happy ending.
In conclusion, if you’re a fan of small-town romances fraught with longing, complex histories, and a blend of heartwarming and heart-wrenching moments, give Scotch on the Rocks a read. Just brace yourself for a shift that could take you by surprise! Emma Hart continues to create a landscape where love is messy, beautiful, and always worth exploring.
I received an e-ARC from NetGalley of this book in exchange for an honest review.
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