When the Wind is Right

Windswept #1

by Alexandra Ayres

She’s sworn off love. He’s hiding the one thing that could ruin everything. What could possibly go wrong?

Juliette Miller’s heart has already been shattered once, and she’s in no rush to let anyone do it again. A solo escape to the Scottish Highlands promises fresh air, quiet mornings, and zero emotional entanglements.

Until she nearly runs over Knox MacKenzie.

All rugged charm and easy smiles, Knox is impossible to ignore. But behind that disarming grin is a secret big enough to upend Juliette’s fragile peace. And when the truth finally surfaces, it sends her running from the one thing she never saw coming.

With an ocean between them, Juliette and Knox must confront the truths they’ve been avoiding. For her, it means learning to trust her heart again. For him, it’s risking everything for a second chance.

Love isn’t easy, but sometimes the best things in life come after the storm.

Genres: Romance

358 pages, Paperback

First published August 21, 2025

About the author

Alexandra Ayres is a Canadian author living in Kentucky, where she writes steamy, emotionally rich romances about bold women discovering themselves and the love they deserve. She lives with her husband, two kids, and a mischievous Siamese cat. When she’s not writing, she’s either planning her next travel adventure or sipping on iced coffee, always chasing inspiration one love story at a time.

Reviews

[Ashley Watson · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved the Scottish man in this book! Oh the things he said and did. He chose her for her and was obsessed. There was a lot of feelings in this book but the way they were handled I loved! Also, I can't wait to see the story about the brother Callen. He is a hilarious side character. You also get a fun animal in this book called Beastie!

[Brittany · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to Alexandra Ayres & her team for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review!

I LOVED this book. The acknowledgments shared that Alex & her husband traveled to the UK for their 10th wedding anniversary, and fell in love with Scotland. Crazy thing is, my husband and I ALSO traveled to the UK for OUR 10th wedding anniversary, and I am utterly enraptured with Scotland. I would move there tomorrow if I could!

This is a beautiful story of second chances at love, grumpy x sunshine trope, found family, and love in the highlands of Scotland. Juliette and Knox’s love story is beautiful in ways that rainfall is; sad that it’s raining and potentially stops something from happening, but the sunshine that comes after makes everything clearer and more beautiful. That’s how I felt their love story came to be. To be cherished by a man so thoroughly, admit their faults and mistakes, and truly work to make it up when they’re wrong. I’m so glad that Juliette didn’t cut herself off from love. Also, I now want a cat named beastie. Their love was natural, and the quiet moments were beautiful to read. But also, the kilt scenes were *chefs kiss*.

I do wish we got a bit more about Bree and what happened with her love life, but I’m really hoping we MAY get a book 2, focusing on her potential finding love in another handsome Scotsman?! IYKYK.

My Scotland loving romantic heart truly enjoyed this book so much. Who knows, maybe I’ll travel back… when the wind is right.

[Lauren Milam · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was lucky enough to get an ARC for this adorable love story. Did it make me want to pack up and move to Scotland? Yes, absolutely it did. Did it also create a new affinity for kilts? Also yes! In all seriousness this story was so good. I very much related to Juliette and what she goes through in the beginning of the book. That part was hard to read but this story also gave me hope and had me falling in love with the characters. I hope I find my kilt man one day. Definitely pick this book up, you won’t regret it!

[Marissa Rosato · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was my very first ARC read! I loved reading this book and the slow burn was so good in every single way. The MMC in this book will have you DROOLING. The way the author writes him, you can actually hear the Scottish accent in your head, along with very vivid imagery that while reading I could picture myself in the scene. Please run to pick this one up!!

[Amber - Mood Readers Anonymous · Rating 4 out of 5]

“And in that moment, I know that whatever comes next will rewrite everything I thought I knew about myself. Because I’ve been kissed before. I’ve been wanted before. But this? This feels like being seen. Like I’m being chosen, not for the version of me I’ve polished up and put on display, but for the messy, heart-on-her-sleeve girl sitting right here in front of him.”

After walking in on her fiancé canoodling with another woman, Juliette does what she does best—runs away. This time she’s booked herself a ticket to Scotland and land herself in the arms of her Aunt Rose, who reminds her so much of her mom. When she ventures on her first drive after dropping her Aunt off at work, the opposite side of the road issue rears its head when she is head right into the way of an oncoming truck. Quickly she swerves and misses them. As if that wasn’t humiliating enough, he pulls to the side and checks on her and at the sound of his deep voice she recognizes it as the voice she overheard on the phone between and her aunt and her VERY attractive boss, Knox.

“The man is a walking ad for everything I’ve sworn off.”

While insta-love definitely isn’t my favorite trope, Alexandra drew this one out with the best kind of tension and tenderness. Both Knox and Juliette have their own fear and pasts in the mix making them hesitate to act on the attraction.

For a debut, this book was done so well. I could have used less metaphors. At times it felt like every paragraph included one or was overly flowery. The story still could have stood on its own two feet without so many of them. I definitely hope to see a book for Callan and for Bree in the future. I will read those in a heartbeat!

What I loved:
- The beautiful highland setting.
- Reading in my head in a Scottish accent.
- A sneaky little kitten
- The flirty banter
- Secret Scottish phrases ❤️
- Women who support each other

Thank you The Author Agency and Alexandra Ayres for the ARC. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

I knew this book would be a winner when I read the dedication — “Also, kilts. Kilts were a motivator. Slainte, you saucy enablers.” (No explanation needed)

I love all things Scotland (Jamie Fraser will forever be my #1) and when I saw this book being offered as an ARC, I jumped on it as quick as I could.

Juliette is a runner. An emotional runner. When she finds herself betrayed and heartbroken, she does what she does best — runs away. This time, it took her to Scotland to visit her aunt, where she discovered life here was quite different from the life she was living in Kentucky. Juliette goes through quite the glow up. She went from people pleasing and always putting her needs last, to living HER best life and all that it entails. She begins to see herself in a different light and becomes a strong and confident woman.

Once in Scotland, Juliette runs into Knox, quite literally. Knox is a devastatingly handsome, rugged, cinnamon roll Highlander. He owns a distillery and spends all his time working — leaving little time for relationships. Knox’s guarded heart wasn’t expecting to fall for Juliette, but he can’t seem to stay away. He wants her in all ways possible. But, he has a past that he tries to keep hidden — until it’s not, and Juliette once again finds herself running away from the lies and betrayal.

5⭐️
4🌶️

I got lost in this book. The writing, the characters, the romance… it was perfection. It was a very open door, realistic romance and I think that’s why I loved it so much. You could feel it — the lust, the desire, the need.

Now, I’m impatiently awaiting book 2 to be announced!

[Taylor Bianchi · Rating 5 out of 5]

The writing is just beautiful, it really brings the scenes to life and makes you feel what the characters are going through. The descriptions of Scotland are so vivid, they made me want to visit. And the characters are written with so much depth, it’s easy to imagine them as real people.

[Chelsea Reinmiller · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Come home to me” —

I received an ARC of When the Wind is Right and I have been anticipating this read ever since the teasers for the book came out!

This debut novel is everything you want in a romance story: tall, Scottish man with a tiny fur-ball kitten, detailed Scotland scenery (I want to live in that secluded mountain home with the reading nook), and all the words a girl wants to hear from a man. Sprinkle in a past full of heartache, finding oneself again after loss & some spice — I loved it!

Ayres has a knack for language. I was pleased with the way she described things, like “…scrapes down my spine like sandpaper.”

I hope there is more to come from this debut author!

[Nicole Johnston · Rating 5 out of 5]

✨ARC REVIEW✨

Such a sweet story. Juliette sounds like someone I would be friends with.
I would say it is 3/5 spice, could’ve been spicier imo but I’m also in my 🌚dark romance gurlie🌚 era, so maybe I’m a little desensitized 🤣

Thank you SO much for the ARC opportunity. Can’t wait to read about Bree & Callan 😉

[Heather · Rating 4 out of 5]

First, I can't wait to hear when this book is going to get an audio version because I want to hear Knox's voice! The entire time I read it, I was was hearing Jamie Fraser (outlander/ Sam H) in my head.
This was a really cute romance with lovable side characters and ones you really love to hate.
The setting in Scotland with the Whisky business was
perfect.
Also... KILTS, flannels, cozy sweaters and a kitten to snuggle up with.
Can I mention kilts again? "Lass" other Gaelic nicknames and "f*ck it"- all rolled up in a HEA!


Trigger warning- does have cheating but only smaller parts and not between the two main characters

Spoilers……


…



…




Just thoughts.

My stomach was in knots from the cheating in the beginning though when J found her ex- fiancé with another woman. and I always have a hard time with cheating in books in general. But how she just went back to work and moved on. I can’t even imagine. Good for her! But I kept replaying it in my head and I think I was more upset than she was. When he came to bring her belongings and he just said he did love her before but didn’t apologize—- uggg. I was so upset.
I kind of was waiting for him to come back into the picture and that didn’t happen. Which was good! But thought he was going to mess everything up for Juliette again.
I was so mad at Knox for keeping the whole divorce thing a secret. And I was going back and forth on it because I did understand his reasoning, especially if she may not stay and he was so close to getting it taken care of, but he should have told her earlier once he realized where their feelings were for each other. And his ex is a witch with a B. I totally saw that whole scene playing out right before it did and made me scream at my kindle because I was so mad at her and Knox for putting them in that situation. I tend to hate miscommunication third act break up tropes. I actually think J handles it pretty well though when she wanted to hear him out. And she trusted Aunt Rose that she wouldn’t have let her go down a road she 100% knew would have been bad for her. (Love aunt rose and their relationship) Also loved her bff.
It talked about her going back home to get things taken care of but there was no mention of her teaching job and I was surprised by that.
The only thing that really irked me was that she told him she was pregnant during the wedding. I know it was at the end, but I feel like that’s an in bed after reception conversation, not at the alter. The author connected it in a cute way, but that’s my personal preference.
The ending was overall a super cheesy happily ever after- which is why we read these books in the first place.

[Ashley's Novel Idea · Rating 4 out of 5]

𝕂𝕟𝕠𝕩 & 𝕁𝕦𝕝𝕚𝕖𝕥𝕥𝕖

When a book starts with the following you know it's bound to be a good book.

“𝑨𝒍𝒔𝒐, 𝒌𝒊𝒍𝒕𝒔. 𝑲𝒊𝒍𝒕𝒔 𝒘𝒆𝒓𝒆 𝒂 𝒎𝒐𝒕𝒊𝒗𝒂𝒕𝒐𝒓. 𝑺𝒍𝒂𝒊𝒏𝒕𝒆, 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒔𝒂𝒖𝒄𝒚 𝒆𝒏𝒂𝒃𝒍𝒆𝒓𝒔.”

Juliette’s an emotional runner. After heartbreak, she escapes to Scotland—and transforms. No more people-pleasing; she’s living her best life.
Then she collides with Knox: a rugged, cinnamon-roll Highlander with a hidden past and his own distillery. Sparks fly, hearts open… until secrets surface. Will Juliette run again—or finally fight for what she wants?

I love all things Scots, proud of my family heritage and all that. I loved the romance here and paired with Ayres beautiful writing it was so easy to get swept away. I do really hope this book comes out in audio, with a great Scots accent, because I will have to go in for seconds in that case! Knox is swoony and Juliette is so relatable. This book had those insta-love vibes, but when paired with the slow burn and the will-they, won't-they air to it I didn't mind it. Who am I kidding, would I love to be swept off my feet by a gorgeous cinnamon roll Scots man in another life. Yes, sir.

I would have liked more in the way of Scots dialect and a bit more spice. But really, that's being nitpicky! The book had a lot of beautiful imagery, and the author was great about placing you in the scenes. Making the reader aware of their 5 senses and bringing the space to life before our eyes.

I am wildly curious about Juliettes best friend and what's going on there... So, I am desperately hoping book 2 will be hers!

Overall, I am impressed that this is the authors debut novel, and I can't wait to pick up another book of hers in the near future!

“𝒜𝓃𝒹 𝒾𝓃 𝓉𝒽𝒶𝓉 𝓂𝑜𝓂𝑒𝓃𝓉, 𝐼 𝓀𝓃𝑜𝓌 𝓉𝒽𝒶𝓉 𝓌𝒽𝒶𝓉𝑒𝓋𝑒𝓇 𝒸𝑜𝓂𝑒𝓈 𝓃𝑒𝓍𝓉 𝓌𝒾𝓁𝓁 𝓇𝑒𝓌𝓇𝒾𝓉𝑒 𝑒𝓋𝑒𝓇𝓎𝓉𝒽𝒾𝓃𝑔 𝐼 𝓉𝒽𝑜𝓊𝑔𝒽𝓉 𝐼 𝓀𝓃𝑒𝓌 𝒶𝒷𝑜𝓊𝓉 𝓂𝓎𝓈𝑒𝓁𝒻. 𝐵𝑒𝒸𝒶𝓊𝓈𝑒 𝐼’𝓋𝑒 𝒷𝑒𝑒𝓃 𝓀𝒾𝓈𝓈𝑒𝒹 𝒷𝑒𝒻𝑜𝓇𝑒. 𝐼’𝓋𝑒 𝒷𝑒𝑒𝓃 𝓌𝒶𝓃𝓉𝑒𝒹 𝒷𝑒𝒻𝑜𝓇𝑒. 𝐵𝓊𝓉 𝓉𝒽𝒾𝓈? 𝒯𝒽𝒾𝓈 𝒻𝑒𝑒𝓁𝓈 𝓁𝒾𝓀𝑒 𝒷𝑒𝒾𝓃𝑔 𝓈𝑒𝑒𝓃. 𝐿𝒾𝓀𝑒 𝐼’𝓂 𝒷𝑒𝒾𝓃𝑔 𝒸𝒽𝑜𝓈𝑒𝓃, 𝓃𝑜𝓉 𝒻𝑜𝓇 𝓉𝒽𝑒 𝓋𝑒𝓇𝓈𝒾𝑜𝓃 𝑜𝒻 𝓂𝑒 𝐼’𝓋𝑒 𝓅𝑜𝓁𝒾𝓈𝒽𝑒𝒹 𝓊𝓅 𝒶𝓃𝒹 𝓅𝓊𝓉 𝑜𝓃 𝒹𝒾𝓈𝓅𝓁𝒶𝓎, 𝒷𝓊𝓉 𝒻𝑜𝓇 𝓉𝒽𝑒 𝓂𝑒𝓈𝓈𝓎, 𝒽𝑒𝒶𝓇𝓉-𝑜𝓃-𝒽𝑒𝓇-𝓈𝓁𝑒𝑒𝓋𝑒 𝑔𝒾𝓇𝓁 𝓈𝒾𝓉𝓉𝒾𝓃𝑔 𝓇𝒾𝑔𝒽𝓉 𝒽𝑒𝓇𝑒 𝒾𝓃 𝒻𝓇𝑜𝓃𝓉 𝑜𝒻 𝒽𝒾𝓂.”

𝕋𝕣𝕠𝕡𝕖𝕤:
𝔽𝕄ℂ 𝕚𝕟 𝕋𝕦𝕣𝕞𝕠𝕚𝕝
𝕊𝕔𝕠𝕥𝕤 𝕏 𝔸𝕞𝕖𝕣𝕚𝕔𝕒𝕟
𝕊𝕨𝕠𝕣𝕟 𝕠𝕗𝕗 𝕠𝕗 𝕃𝕠𝕧𝕖
𝔽𝕣𝕖𝕤𝕙 𝕊𝕥𝕒𝕣𝕥
𝔾𝕦𝕒𝕣𝕕𝕖𝕕 𝕏 ℍ𝕠𝕡𝕖𝕗𝕦𝕝
𝕊𝕖𝕔𝕣𝕖𝕥 ℙ𝕒𝕤𝕥
𝔽*𝕔𝕜 𝕚𝕥
𝔽𝕠𝕦𝕟𝕕 𝔽𝕒𝕞𝕚𝕝𝕪
𝕊𝕞𝕒𝕝𝕝 𝕋𝕠𝕨𝕟

[Rachel Self · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rating is 4.5!
Spice level 🌶️🌶️🌶️

A romance set in Scotland?? Say no more! :)

Synopsis:
After Juliette Miller’s heart is broken by her fiancé, she does what she does best when times are hard - she runs. Lucky for her, her aunt Rose just happens to be working in the Scottish Highlands - the perfect place to relax, recover, and reassess what she wants in life. But on her first day in the small town, she almost runs over her aunt’s (gorgeous) boss, Knox MacKenzie.

After the near collision, Knox can’t get the American woman out of his mind. Busy running the family distillery, he is in no place for any type of relationship. But when she shows up later that day, he can’t help but offer her a tour of the place. As she continues to sweep her way into his life, Knox tries to protect her from his past, and a secret that could destroy Juliette’s fragile heart.

Review:
While the setting is what initially piqued my interest in When the Wind is Right, it was Juliette and Knox’s story that carried me away. When it comes to romance, the theme of “guarded and hopeful” is one of my favorites, and Ayres delivers with a realistic but ideal quality. The banter is witty and on point, and adds to the delightfully agonizing slow-burn between the two. While this is a *bit* more spicy than my normal reads, I believe one could easily skim/skip those sections (if they so choose) and not miss out *too much* on the overall story.

Alexandra Ayres character development of each individual is thorough, and I couldn’t help but fall in love with every one of them. Well, all but one 👀. At the end, I was left yearning to know more about certain characters’ lives. As this is the first in her series, Windswept, I am hopeful that the next book will carry on with their stories!

[Katie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had such a blast diving into small town Scotland in When the Wind is Right!

Juliette finds her fiancé cheating on her in the worst sort of way, and is looking to find a place to move on and heal. When her aunt offers her a room in her house, Juliette books a one way ticket to Scotland for the summer.

On her first day in Scotland and attempting to drive, Juliette nearly hits a truck, and mets Knox for the first time. Come to find out, he is not only a local, but Knox is her aunt's boss and owner of the local whisky distillery. From tours of the distillery to their first couple of dates, as Knox and Juliette spent more time together, the attraction between them burns and grows. But Knox is hiding a secret past that could cause everything to crumble down around them.

I could not put this book down. The beautiful way that Alexandra wrote this book not only resonated with me, but I felt emotionally invested in Juliette's story with Knox. I could not get enough of her journey and her waking up after the pain her ex put her through. And for her to fall for Knox? I loved every moment of his wooing of her. This strong, protective man fell head over heels for Juliette and even when he made mistakes, he fought to right them.

I would also be remiss to forget the wee Beastie who snuck into Knox's house and would not leave. That adorable kitten made the story that much better for me and I fell for Beastie just like Juliette did.

Thank you so much to Alexandra and The Author Agency for the early copy of When the Wind is Right. I could not get enough!

Tropes:
Small Town Scotland
New to Town
Secret Past
Found Family
Slow Burn

[Lila Danisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

That was so freaking sweet!

But first, let's talk about the cover. Damn so beautiful. I loved the green and the paint stroke effect. Perfectly goes along with the beautiful Scotland as the main background place in this book. I swear the beautiful descriptions about Scotland made me want to book a ticket and fly straight there.

From the beginning to 13-15% of the book, I cried so many times because my heart hurt for Juliette. My heart always hurts when I read about the heroine being cheated and caught red-handed, but there was something so sad and heartbreaking about Juliette's POV at that moment that made me so sad and heartbroken for her. I was really happy that she could discover herself (again). This is why I like to read romance books with HEA, because it's so satisfying to read how the characters stand up for themselves after the wreck they went through.

Now, Knox, the almost perfect Scottish man. I loved how he also healed himself and opened up because of Juliette. They both helped each other healed. Though I wish there was more explanation in Knox's past, Knox in kilt twice was enough to ease that tiny bothersome (plot)hole.

I loved the MacKenzies. I 60% sure that the next book is about the one and only Knox's mischievous brother. I have the theory of who he would be paired up with. Can't wait to see if my theory came up right or totally wrong.

Thank you to Alexandra Ayres and The Author Agency for the ARC.

[Caz (whatcazread) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Juliette’s an emotional runner and after her heart is broken by her fiancé she escapes to the Scottish Highlands where her Aunt Rose lives.

Juliette’s first attempt at driving in Scotland almost ends in disaster when she nearly runs into Knox MacKenzie, her aunt’s boss and owner of the local whisky distillery.

Knox is busy running the distillery and has some personal issues he needs to sort out so he’s not looking for a relationship while Juliette is wary about opening herself to someone after all she’s been through. Despite neither of them thinking a relationship is a good idea they can’t seem to stay away from each other.

The banter between Juliette and Knox was witty and even though their chemistry was undeniable their relationship developed slowly so it felt natural and not forced.

Both characters showed growth throughout the story and I loved seeing Juliette rediscover herself and become a strong, confident woman. While Knox was rugged and charming he also had some deep, emotional issues and it took Juliette showing up in his life for him to finally be open to healing the past.

When the Wind is Right is heartfelt and beautifully written and the descriptions of Scotland are breathtaking. This emotional slow-burn romance about second chances and knowing when to stop running was impossible to put down and is a solid debut from Alexandra Ayres.

[Chlo - TartanMidnightReads · Rating 5 out of 5]

I know Alex has been waiting eagerly for this review👀
I normally avoid books based in Scotland because SO MANY of them play right into the stereotypes, Alex promised me that wasn't the case & I knew I just had to read it and I'm so glad I did!!

"This is the kiss. The kind that rewrites every single one before it."

Juliette & Knox are my new favourites. Insta-love needs to be done right to truly feel it & it absolutely was.
I love the fact that their first meeting was a near-miss death, and instead of anger, it was just lust.
Juliette has all but sworn off men, but as the dedication shows... you can't say no to a Scotsman!

The way their relationship built up was beautiful.
The "incident" we shall call it was predictable, but it didn't take away from how well it was written.
(Let's be real... the only reason it was predictable is because men don't listen to women when they are advised to do something. They like to do the complete opposite. By that point, you are calling Knox all the names under the sun for being so stupid & hoping they manage to fix things!!

The book wrapped up perfectly, BUT... I NEED Callan next, specifically with a sprinkle of Bree thrown in!!
I need to know more about Bree's history and also see them both go at each other.
The angst will be unbearable, in a very good day!!

I'm so glad I found this book because I am absolutely hooked & if I could rate six stars, I definitely would!!
Everyone needs to read this!!

“Sometimes we need to rip up the roots, toss ‘em out, and find a new patch of soil. Don’t be afraid to leave something behind if it means you can finally grow. Maybe you’ve been too scared to move. I get it. But trust me, you don’t want to be a sorrow- ridden, crumpled mess stuck in the same old spot.”

[Mik · Rating 4 out of 5]

When the Wind is Right was such a fun escape to the Scottish Highlands! Juliette is a relatable heroine, running from heartbreak and discovering a new sense of confidence and independence in a small town she never expected to call home. Her journey of self-discovery felt real and emotionally engaging, and I loved seeing her grow into her own.

Knox, the rugged and charming distillery owner, brought all the swoon-worthy vibes—protective, sweet, and just the right amount of sexy. Their chemistry builds slowly and is definitely satisfying, though I sometimes wished for a bit more depth from the secondary characters. The little touches, like the adorable kitten Beastie, added charm and warmth to the story.

The book is beautifully written, with vivid descriptions of Scotland that make you wish you were on a plane yourself. The slow-burn romance paired with themes of trust, taking risks, and deciding when to stay or run kept me invested. I did see the twist coming with Knox’s secret past, and while the execution wasn’t exactly my favorite, it was handled well.

Overall, a solid, enjoyable read that I’d recommend for fans of small-town romances, slow-burn love, and a touch of Scottish charm. Can’t wait to see what’s next from Alexandra Ayres!

[Mom Needs Magic · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ok… Finally!! This was one of my most anticipated reads this month and I’m so so so happy to say it was superrrr worth the wait! 🥹

From the start, I was hooked!!
The writing it’s beautiful, it pulled me right into the story and will absolutely make you feel emotionally invested from page one.

Let’s talk characters!! .. Knox and his brother? Their introduction was perfect, and now I need to visit Scotland 🫢 (don’t worry.. just for the scenery).

And Juliette + Knox's first encounter?? I was grinning and definitely giggling through the whole conversation. Their chemistry is just too good, toooo perfect ❤️‍🔥

Knox is my new non-fantasy book boyfriend 🥰and Juliette felt so real and relatable.

This book was so sweet, swoony, funny, and just the perfect balance of romance + spice.
The banter? Chef's kiss 🤌🏻 The romance? Perfection 🤌🏻

Also, can we please get Callan's story next?? He was so funny and I need more of him ASAP!

Overall, this was the perfect cozy, swoony summer read. I loved every second of it and I'm so glad I finally got to dive in 🥹

Ohhhh, brb 🏃🏻‍♀️*books flight to Scotland* (but for real, the descriptions were so vivid that I want to visit) 🏔️

P.S. This author has officially landed on my auto-buy list 💛

[Dominique · Rating 5 out of 5]

thank you to Alexandra Ayres for this e-arc in exchange for an honest review!!!

i absolutely adored this book!!! after the shock of finding her fiancé cheating on her, Juliette decides to use her summer vacation from teaching to take a trip to Scotland to stay with her aunt for a few weeks. her first day there, she takes her aunt to work and on her way back, she forgets which side of the road is the right side and almost runs a man off the road. in her embarrassment, he calms her down and starts flirting with her, not knowing that she is his employee’s niece. When Juliette comes to visit the distillery her aunt works for, she is very surprised to see the man she almost killed is running the place. Knox is pleasantly surprised to see Juliette.

the romance in this was so, so good!! the flirting and the banter were top tier, i was kicking my feet and giggling the whole time!! the relationship between Juliette and Knox was so so sweet. i loved watching them slowly open up to each other and take down the guards around their hearts. the imagery was so vivid, i could picture the beauty of Scotland so well! who would’ve guess this would give me a thing for kilts? i wish i could run away to the Scottish Highlands and find myself a man like Knox. i also loved the side characters in this book so much! I cannot wait for the next book in this series!!! i highly recommend for a sweet, fun, flirty time!!

[Kirsty · Rating 5 out of 5]

was such a beautiful, heartfelt read. I was hooked from the very first page and completely fell in love with Juliette and Knox’s story. Juliette is determined to protect her heart after being hurt before, and her escape to the Scottish Highlands was meant to be peaceful and drama-free—until Knox shows up. He’s charming, rugged, and so easy to like, but it’s clear from the start he’s holding something back.

The chemistry between them is undeniable, but what I loved most is how real their connection felt. The author does such a great job of balancing the light, flirty moments with the deeper, emotional ones. When Knox’s secret is revealed, it’s heartbreaking, but it made their journey feel even more meaningful. The way the story handled trust, forgiveness, and second chances felt so genuine.

The setting was stunning—I could picture every detail of the Highlands and felt completely transported. This story had me smiling, tearing up, and rooting for them the whole way through. It’s one of those romances that leaves you with a warm heart and a happy sigh at the end.

[Sarahreadsallthebooks · Rating 4 out of 5]

When the Wind is Right by @authoralexayres is book one in the Windswept series, it’s a small (Scottish) town, slow burn romance.

Juliette has a seemingly perfect life when she walks in on her fiancé with another woman. Wanting to get away for the summer, she visits her aunt in Scotland, where she plans to clear her head and her heart and definitely not fall for a handsome Scot.

Knox is busy running his whisky distillery with his brother, he doesn’t have time for another relationship. When Juliette (almost) crashes into his life that suddenly changes.

Did I mention he wears a kilt?
There is also a kitten!
Need more reasons to read this?

When the Wind is Right is a well written, genuine love story about two people who find each other when they aren’t even looking. I loved Knox and Juliette, they had great chemistry. The other characters added the fun and I’m sure they’ll pop up in future books. No major dramas just a love story, spice and a HEA. Worth adding to your TBR.

4/5⭐️
3/5 🌶️

[Grace · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm always game for a love story set in the Scottish highlands, and this book definitely delivered!

The chemistry between Juliette and Knox was undeniable, plus their banter was 10/10. I also adored the relationship between Juliette and Rose as well as Juliette and Bree. It was clear she had a goal worthy support system and the dynamic between them was done perfectly. This was a fantastic read to gear up for the fall, the vibes were so warm & fuzzy!

There were some points where the story seemed to move rather slowly, which was interesting compared to the several time jumps in the last 10% of the book, which did take me out of the story a bit. Their relationship in general also felt rushed, especially considering Juliette was engaged less than a month before meeting Knox and homeboy was still technically married, but I enjoyed it nonetheless.

If you like romance stories that have a chivalrous MMC with an accent you'll probably enjoy this one!

Thank you to the author agency for the eARC :)

[riding_the_pages · Rating 4 out of 5]

Juliette and Knox’s first interaction reminds me of the Netflix movie Falling Inn Love. My all time favorite rom com. I knew from that moment that I would absolutely love this book.

If the characters didn’t sweep me away than the scenery did. There’s something beautifully wistful about the Scottish Highlands. If I wasn’t so deathly afraid of flying I’d get on a plane to Scotland after reading this book.

Alexandra Ayres did a beautiful job writing this. The emotions were so realistic
that I didn’t even realise when I started to feel them as though they were my own.

Juliette and Knox together were perfect! The way their romance heated up and the way he fell so hard for her. They were exactly what the other needed to heal and grow, into the strongest versions of themselves they could be. Knox was (heart eyes) every woman's dream of a rugged, romantic, Scottish gentleman.

So book besties, if that sounds like your type of swoon worthy man, I implore you to read this!

I’m eager to see what comes next!

Huge thank you to Alexandra Ayres and The Author Agency for my gifted copy.

[Chia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I totally blanked on writing this one (oops!), but revisiting it yesterday, it was such a quiet gem... authentic, lush, and emotionally grounded.

Juliette, burned out and heartbroken, flees to the Highlands seeking solace. Then, she almost runs Knox over on a remote road. Cue a slow-burn connection that’s sweet, complicated, and deeply real.

The Scottish Highlands' misty mornings, crisp landscapes, soul-nourishing quiet make me question whether I want to move there because of the scenery, or because I wnat to run into my own very Know...

Juliette’s vulnerability and Knox’s secret, that emotional tension, is the flame that fuels their connection from page one. WtWiR has a slow burn that feels earned, it is like wrapping yourself in a tartan blanket by a Highland fire—soft, warm, slightly windswept, and heartbreakingly hopeful.

If you want romance that lingers in your chest, gives you quiet healing, and then slips in a soft spark—you’ll want to carve out time for this one.

Thank you, The Author Agency for the ARC!

[Rose Stewart · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a must-read for romance lovers. Dreamy, emotional, and full of slow-burn tension, When the Wind is Right swept me away from the very first page. The pacing is spot-on, the chemistry between the main characters is electric, and the setting is absolutely breathtaking. Alexandra Ayres paints the Scottish Highlands so vividly that I was ready to pack my bags and go find myself a Scottish man (or at least do some role play with my husband 😅).

Every detail from the characters’ guarded hearts to the secrets of the past they carry felt so beautifully layered. It’s one of those rare reads that made me feel both comforted and completely transported.

I did receive an advance reader copy through a giveaway the author hosted, but I’m not on a street team or anything, this review comes purely from the heart, because I just genuinely adored this book.

Highly, highly recommend to anyone looking for an atmospheric, heartfelt romance.

[Kim Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

✨ • 🌟 Book Review / ARC Review ⭐️ • ✨
When the Wind is Right by Alexandra Ayres
@authoralexayres @theauthor.agency

Book Review 5 ⭐️
Spice level : 2 🌶️

Firstly, I want to say Thank you to Alexandra Ayres and The Author Agency for the opportunity to get an ARC of this book!

This book swept me straight into the misty Scottish Highlands, spun me in a slow-burn whirlwind, and left my heart tangled up in Knox MacKenzie’s secrets. It was just enough heartache, and happy tears, and believe me there were a few! 🥹

This isn’t just romance … It’s about healing, second chances, and finding someone who feels like home even when the winds change. I can’t get over the way I feel about these two and their love story.

This book just makes you want to pack your bags and find a Scottish Man in a Kilt who owns a Distillery!!
Haha. Sorry Husband.. 😂😂
It also made my husband and I find a new drink to make!

[Angela Drnd · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was such a heart-grabbing small-town romance set in the Scottish Highlands! Juliette’s journey from heartbreak to healing pulled me in right away, and I loved how her trip for a fresh start led her straight into Knox’s world. Their relationship had the perfect balance of slow burn, push-and-pull tension, and emotional depth without being over the top. I especially appreciated how real the characters felt — you understand both sides and feel every choice they make.

Between the breathtaking setting, found family vibes, a guarded hero with secrets, and a heroine learning to trust again, this story has everything I look for in a romance. Beautifully written, a little dramatic in all the right ways, and impossible to put down. Highly recommend this one for anyone who loves emotional, heartfelt romance with a touch of spice and plenty of swoon!

Spicy 🌶️🌶️ 🌶️ 🥵

Release Date: Tuesday, August 21st
#ScottishHighlands #SmallTownRomance #FoundFamily

[Rue · Rating 4 out of 5]

✨ARC Review✨
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I just finished When The Wind is Right by Alexandra Ayres and I am so glad I was chosen to receive this book early! The writing style took me a moment to get used to but once I got into the story and the characters it just came together so perfectly! I loved Juliette so much and I felt her character was so relatable and her story was just perfect. Her relationship with Knox is such a beautiful one.

That said, it was a little slow at times and took me a minute to get super into it which is why it’s a solid ⭐⭐⭐⭐ for me instead of a full 5. However, this was such a rewarding and memorable read, and I’ll definitely be keeping an eye out for what Ayres writes next! 🌬️📖 this was such a promising start! Can’t wait to see what she comes out with in the future.

Congratulations @authoralexayres on this wonderful novel💕 and thank you for giving me the chance to read it now!

[Kelsi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rating:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️

What an amazing debut book from Alexandra Ayres! I truly couldn’t put this book down, I fell in love with Juliette immediately! She was so relatable and I loved that even when her life was spiraling out of control she managed to stand up for herself, and not only just the things she wanted but the things she needed! And Knox was amazing from the second he stepped on to the page, so full of love and care for those he held close to him, with a protective streak that was not to be messed with. And together their chemistry shot sparks right off the page! So, if you’re looking for amazing characters, hilarious banter, the search for a place to truly call home, and a romance that is stunning from beginning to end and gorgeously written scenes that bring this book and the atmosphere to life than I highly recommend grabbing a copy of When the Wind is Right immediately!!

[Rebecca Billman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Juliette just had her heart broken and is ready for a change of scenery. Her aunt lives in Scotland and invites Juliette, who is a teacher, to come and stay for the summer.

Knox owns a whisky distillery. It has been in his family for generations and he loves everything about it. Juliette’s aunt works for Knox and introduces them one day. Little does her aunt know they somewhat met earlier that morning while Knox was driving to work.

Juliette is not interested in getting into something new just to end up heartbroken again. Knox has a secret he hasn’t been meaning to keep, but it just hasn’t been the right time to tell Juliette.

I loved this sweet story about finding love again and second chances. Alexandra did an amazing job at describing everything about Scotland and the distillery. It truly felt like you were there while reading.

When the Wind is Right is the first book in the Windswept series and I cannot wait to see where Alexandra takes us next!