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Scotsman in the Stacks
Paige wants two things: to land a full time librarian job and find the man of her dreams. On the cusp of thirty, she finds herself suddenly single and working part-time in a Michigan library. A handsome patron with a delicious accent appears at the reference desk, inadvertently sparking an idea that might help her land the promotion she so desperately needs. But that's not the only thing he sparks.
James is in town from Glasgow, Scotland, on a summer artist residency. Luckily, the trip got him away from the pressure he feels to take over his uncle's river tour business. He only wanted to clear his head and make his art in peace, but he wasn't counting on finding an attractive librarian to fill his days.
With only eight weeks before James goes home to Scotland, Paige knows she should protect her heart. After all, she already wasted years with her commitment phobe ex. But the more she gets to know James, the less she can stick to her plan to just be friends. Is she just wasting her time again, or can they bridge the ocean between them to find a happily ever after of their own?
James is in town from Glasgow, Scotland, on a summer artist residency. Luckily, the trip got him away from the pressure he feels to take over his uncle's river tour business. He only wanted to clear his head and make his art in peace, but he wasn't counting on finding an attractive librarian to fill his days.
With only eight weeks before James goes home to Scotland, Paige knows she should protect her heart. After all, she already wasted years with her commitment phobe ex. But the more she gets to know James, the less she can stick to her plan to just be friends. Is she just wasting her time again, or can they bridge the ocean between them to find a happily ever after of their own?
336 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 14, 2022
14 people are currently reading
1111 people want to read
About the author
Alana Oxford
6 books199 followersAlana Oxford is a Michigan author of romcoms, sweet romance, and humorous women's fiction. She wants her stories to bring sunshine and smiles to her readers. She enjoys improv comedy, moody music, everything book related, and has an ongoing love affair with the United Kingdom.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 254 reviews
April 12, 2022
I loved this book - and by "loved", I mean I devoured Scotsman in the Stacks in a matter of hours.
Paige & James are probably a couple of the most relatable characters I've had the pleasure of reading this year. Paige is a librarian working up the chain to a full time job, learning how to be herself and recognizing her self worth. Her best friend, Kayla, reminded me of my best friend - reminding me of my worth, paving the way for my life later. I loved their duo and the love they had for each other as they go through different things in life.
The friendship, however, is not what this book is about - it's about Paige and James. James - the Scotsman - is an absolute delight. He's sweet, he's kind, he's chivalrous. If you're looking for a prince charming with an accent, this guy is IT. Paige and James fall for each other quickly - a soulmate situation.
My only critique of this book is that it was hard for me to read the Scottish accent. I would likely really enjoy an audiobook version with a Scotsman as James. I understand what the author was doing and it didn't take away from the sweet story at all. I wish I could do 1/2 stars because it really didn't take away a full star for something so minimal (in my opinion).
If you're looking for a feel good, HEA, prince charming scenario - go for this! I recommend, 100%!
Paige & James are probably a couple of the most relatable characters I've had the pleasure of reading this year. Paige is a librarian working up the chain to a full time job, learning how to be herself and recognizing her self worth. Her best friend, Kayla, reminded me of my best friend - reminding me of my worth, paving the way for my life later. I loved their duo and the love they had for each other as they go through different things in life.
The friendship, however, is not what this book is about - it's about Paige and James. James - the Scotsman - is an absolute delight. He's sweet, he's kind, he's chivalrous. If you're looking for a prince charming with an accent, this guy is IT. Paige and James fall for each other quickly - a soulmate situation.
My only critique of this book is that it was hard for me to read the Scottish accent. I would likely really enjoy an audiobook version with a Scotsman as James. I understand what the author was doing and it didn't take away from the sweet story at all. I wish I could do 1/2 stars because it really didn't take away a full star for something so minimal (in my opinion).
If you're looking for a feel good, HEA, prince charming scenario - go for this! I recommend, 100%!
April 8, 2022
Thanks NetGalley and the publisher for the digital copy in exchange for an honest review.
Paige is a librarian who's single and she doesn't want just a fling. She wants to settle down and that's why she broke up with her last boyfriend, but then one day in the library she meets James and although they are attracted to each other immediately, she doesn't want to get involved since he'll be staying for only eight weeks and then he has to return to Scotland.
Well, that was a disappointment. When I saw the cute cover and the premise (a librarian + a scotsman), I really thought I'd like it but this one was just plain boring.
There was absolutely no chemistry between them (at least I didn't feel any) and the whole development between them (it was a bit like friends to lovers except they weren't really friends) was so dull. Personally I didn't like any of the main characters since they were so generic and one dimensional.
Also, I was not a fan of the writing. It was not bad, but I got tired really fast of James' lines. There was a lot of wouldnae, dinnae, no', couldnae, o' course, havenae, etc. I get that he is Scottish and it is how they talk, but it annoyed me after a while (but maybe that's just me)
There was nothing specifically wrong with it, I just didn't connect at all. Maybe people who haven't read many romance novels might enjoy it more than I did.
Paige is a librarian who's single and she doesn't want just a fling. She wants to settle down and that's why she broke up with her last boyfriend, but then one day in the library she meets James and although they are attracted to each other immediately, she doesn't want to get involved since he'll be staying for only eight weeks and then he has to return to Scotland.
Well, that was a disappointment. When I saw the cute cover and the premise (a librarian + a scotsman), I really thought I'd like it but this one was just plain boring.
There was absolutely no chemistry between them (at least I didn't feel any) and the whole development between them (it was a bit like friends to lovers except they weren't really friends) was so dull. Personally I didn't like any of the main characters since they were so generic and one dimensional.
Also, I was not a fan of the writing. It was not bad, but I got tired really fast of James' lines. There was a lot of wouldnae, dinnae, no', couldnae, o' course, havenae, etc. I get that he is Scottish and it is how they talk, but it annoyed me after a while (but maybe that's just me)
There was nothing specifically wrong with it, I just didn't connect at all. Maybe people who haven't read many romance novels might enjoy it more than I did.
June 16, 2022
An adorable, cute, funny romance that I read in one whole sitting! I’m a sucker for books about book lovers so what’s better than read about a librarian and a book loving Scotsman maybe falling in love! The library meet cute was soooo funny and just perfect for these main characters! If you love a strong Scottish accent, friends-to-lovers, and falling fast and hard you’ll love this adorable romance!
April 6, 2022
This was just what I needed tonight. It’s a slow burn, sweet romance, without any crazy ex-girlfriends getting in the way or horrible misunderstandings that cause issues. It was just a nice, happy romance, and I feel like we don’t get those very often anymore.
Thank you NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Thank you NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
April 10, 2022
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me a copy of Scotsman in the Stacks! This is the first book I’ve read from Alana Oxford.
Paige is a 29 year old woman who wants to settle down and get married. Dylan, her boyfriend of 6 years, is afraid of commitment. So she goes through a breakup. I immediately related to Paige. She’s very likable. She wants marriage and children. She sees her best friend Kayla who is married and having her first baby, and she wants to have the same happiness that comes from a family of her own.
I love that she’s a librarian and it’s her dream job. She works to get a promotion at the library. I’m all for the heroine following her dreams.
James MacKinnon might as well be Jamie from Outlander because that’s who I pictured the entire time, haha. He’s Scottish. He’s from Glasgow. He had red hair and striking blue eyes. He has a hot Celtic tat and he loves books. I’ve been to Glasgow. The accent is legit swoon-worthy. 😋 He’s literally perfect. I mean what bookish girl doesn’t want to be a librarian and show a hot Scottish guy around? The downside is James is only in town for eight weeks. Is that enough time to start a romance?
I did really enjoy their road trip to Frankenmuth and the island. I’m not familiar with Michigan, but I am from the Midwest, so it’s nice to see some representation.
The dialogue at times was slightly cringey when it came to the flirting. For example, James said something like I have another birthday kiss for you. I couldn’t quite trust that James was obsessed with her at the beginning. Some of the lines seemed unreal and a little over the top. It was that feeling of “you just met each other; do you really think that?” However, they did spend a lot of time together, so it’s possible they bonded. The other dialogue when they were getting to know each other was fun. I enjoyed their conversations about Scotland and what they wanted for the future.
I think I spent half of the book waiting for something bad to happen because things just seemed a little too perfect. I think the romance was very innocent and clean. There wasn’t anything too graphic for those readers who avoid those types of scenes.
Overall, I really enjoyed the book. The conflict was a bit lacking, but it was a fun read.
I’d recommend this book to anyone who loves American contemporary romance with a Scottish flair.
Paige is a 29 year old woman who wants to settle down and get married. Dylan, her boyfriend of 6 years, is afraid of commitment. So she goes through a breakup. I immediately related to Paige. She’s very likable. She wants marriage and children. She sees her best friend Kayla who is married and having her first baby, and she wants to have the same happiness that comes from a family of her own.
I love that she’s a librarian and it’s her dream job. She works to get a promotion at the library. I’m all for the heroine following her dreams.
James MacKinnon might as well be Jamie from Outlander because that’s who I pictured the entire time, haha. He’s Scottish. He’s from Glasgow. He had red hair and striking blue eyes. He has a hot Celtic tat and he loves books. I’ve been to Glasgow. The accent is legit swoon-worthy. 😋 He’s literally perfect. I mean what bookish girl doesn’t want to be a librarian and show a hot Scottish guy around? The downside is James is only in town for eight weeks. Is that enough time to start a romance?
I did really enjoy their road trip to Frankenmuth and the island. I’m not familiar with Michigan, but I am from the Midwest, so it’s nice to see some representation.
The dialogue at times was slightly cringey when it came to the flirting. For example, James said something like I have another birthday kiss for you. I couldn’t quite trust that James was obsessed with her at the beginning. Some of the lines seemed unreal and a little over the top. It was that feeling of “you just met each other; do you really think that?” However, they did spend a lot of time together, so it’s possible they bonded. The other dialogue when they were getting to know each other was fun. I enjoyed their conversations about Scotland and what they wanted for the future.
I think I spent half of the book waiting for something bad to happen because things just seemed a little too perfect. I think the romance was very innocent and clean. There wasn’t anything too graphic for those readers who avoid those types of scenes.
Overall, I really enjoyed the book. The conflict was a bit lacking, but it was a fun read.
I’d recommend this book to anyone who loves American contemporary romance with a Scottish flair.
April 16, 2022
This story follows the life of Paige a cutesy, outgoing librarian who is looking for her Mr right. Her wish comes true when a handsome Scotsman ends up arriving in town for his art residency. Though he's only going to stay for a few weeks and Paige doesn't want to engage in something temporary. But the attraction between them gets hard to resist and they have very little time together but they find ways to make the most of it. Overall, it was a short, sweet and simple book with great chemistry between Paige & James. Their flirting made me literally blush but the side characters felt bland and I didn't really feel the connection between Paige and her bestfriend. The plot was uplifting with an adorable meet cute situation but there wasn't much angst as I expected.
Thank you Netgalley for providing me the ARC
Thank you Netgalley for providing me the ARC
June 9, 2022
This was a cute romance. I liked that the main character is a librarian. The story was sweet and a quick read. It didn't have anything that really moved me and towards the end I got a little bored. Overall, it was a nice book.
Thank you for to NetGalley and 8N Publishing for sending this book in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you for to NetGalley and 8N Publishing for sending this book in exchange for an honest review.
May 19, 2022
Unfortunately, this book just wasn't for me. There were times that it was cute, but at most times it was a tad boring. I didn't feel the character's connections much either, which is a deal-breaker for a rom-com.
Note: Thank you to NetGalley and publishers for allowing me access to this book in exchange for an honest review!
Note: Thank you to NetGalley and publishers for allowing me access to this book in exchange for an honest review!
December 1, 2023
The story follows Paige, who’s working a part time job in a Michigan library. After her recent breakup, she becomes truly set on finding the right guy (THE ONE with whom she will spend the rest of her days with) and also get her dream job as a full time Librarian. Enter James,a very cute Scotsman who’s on a summer artist residency in Paige’s town. He just needs to get away from home and clear his head while making is art in peace. Their path crosses and the attraction and complicity is instant between them. Obviously, James is off limit for Paige considering he’s only there for the summer, but will they be able to stay just friends?
I’m usually a big enemies to lovers trope reader so I was a little unsure about this book at first. It is pretty much love at first sight for the two characters, but I did enjoy it a lot! The characters were nice and I did enjoy their interactions and complicity. Paige’s best friends are so similar to mine, so I did relate a lot to the parts they were together, like a second family (which is the best friends you can hope for in life!). For me it was one of those books that just kept making me smile throughout my whole read.
I also have to admit that I DO have a soft spot for Scottish man… I see any word closely related to Scotland in a book title and I am suddenly finding myself buying the book (talk about good self control). So James MacKinnon didn’t have to do much to win my heart. He said « caird » and I knew I loved the man. But he’s seriously dreamy!
Definitely would recommend reading this book if you are looking for something easy to read, very light, sweet and comforting.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the digital copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are mine.
I’m usually a big enemies to lovers trope reader so I was a little unsure about this book at first. It is pretty much love at first sight for the two characters, but I did enjoy it a lot! The characters were nice and I did enjoy their interactions and complicity. Paige’s best friends are so similar to mine, so I did relate a lot to the parts they were together, like a second family (which is the best friends you can hope for in life!). For me it was one of those books that just kept making me smile throughout my whole read.
I also have to admit that I DO have a soft spot for Scottish man… I see any word closely related to Scotland in a book title and I am suddenly finding myself buying the book (talk about good self control). So James MacKinnon didn’t have to do much to win my heart. He said « caird » and I knew I loved the man. But he’s seriously dreamy!
Definitely would recommend reading this book if you are looking for something easy to read, very light, sweet and comforting.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the digital copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are mine.
April 4, 2022
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. Thank you to Netgalley & Xpresso Book Tours!
After a shocking break up, all Paige wants is to gain the full-time librarian job that’s soon to open in her Michigan home town. A handsome newcomer catches her eye but she has no plans to date. Glasgow native James is taken by Paige as soon as they meet at the library. The only problem is that he’s only in Michigan for eight weeks as part of an artist residency.
Scotsman in the Stacks is a sweet friends to lovers romance. Paige and James have chemistry from their very first meeting. This is a “closed door” romance so if you're looking for something spicy this may not be for you. The plot is charming and predictable making it the perfect read for a cozy rainy day or a warm beach trip.
This is the first book that I have read from author Alana Oxford but I look forward to reading more of her work in the future.
After a shocking break up, all Paige wants is to gain the full-time librarian job that’s soon to open in her Michigan home town. A handsome newcomer catches her eye but she has no plans to date. Glasgow native James is taken by Paige as soon as they meet at the library. The only problem is that he’s only in Michigan for eight weeks as part of an artist residency.
Scotsman in the Stacks is a sweet friends to lovers romance. Paige and James have chemistry from their very first meeting. This is a “closed door” romance so if you're looking for something spicy this may not be for you. The plot is charming and predictable making it the perfect read for a cozy rainy day or a warm beach trip.
This is the first book that I have read from author Alana Oxford but I look forward to reading more of her work in the future.
May 5, 2022
The description seemed like a super sweet, bubblegum read: a Librarian, a Scotsman she meets in the library, and some romance...what else could you want to read on vacation?
Not this.
It is very sweet, very vanilla, very boring, and very, very White. The biggest obstacle they have to overcome is missing each other's phone calls. Her other big challenge is reviving her library's bookclub.
Girl, what is your life even like?
If you've never interacted with a librarian before, you'll learn all about the fun of public service (and you might be surprised, alongside our MC that you too, can say no when patrons ask for your undivided attention day in and day out).
Another bone to pick is that this reads as a tourism ad for Michigan. I had a really hard time believeing that our Scot was so enamored and delighted by Michigan. Nothing against them, but no one would choose Michigan over Scotland. I'm sorry, but no matter how much you love your state, I refuse to believe that.
Another purely fantastical part to this? That our MC could afford a quality life (including rent!) on a part time public library job.
Please, join me in hysterical laughter.
NetGalley gave me an ARC of this in exchange for an honest review
Not this.
It is very sweet, very vanilla, very boring, and very, very White. The biggest obstacle they have to overcome is missing each other's phone calls. Her other big challenge is reviving her library's bookclub.
Girl, what is your life even like?
If you've never interacted with a librarian before, you'll learn all about the fun of public service (and you might be surprised, alongside our MC that you too, can say no when patrons ask for your undivided attention day in and day out).
Another bone to pick is that this reads as a tourism ad for Michigan. I had a really hard time believeing that our Scot was so enamored and delighted by Michigan. Nothing against them, but no one would choose Michigan over Scotland. I'm sorry, but no matter how much you love your state, I refuse to believe that.
Another purely fantastical part to this? That our MC could afford a quality life (including rent!) on a part time public library job.
Please, join me in hysterical laughter.
NetGalley gave me an ARC of this in exchange for an honest review
June 14, 2022
This is a cute and enjoyably light-hearted romance and an ode to Michigan.
The sights, the quirks, the food and drink as well as local restaurants all get mentioned. It was very fun to read since I have lived in the Detroit area for three years and a lot of places mentioned in the book seemed quite familiar.
As far as the romance goes: at 29 and after a disappointing long term relationship Paige is determined to find her match, get married, settle down and have kids. She’s a librarian in Michigan when she James, a sexy Scotsman who’s in town doing an artist’s residency for eight weeks. The attraction is immediate and sparks fly, but Paige does not want to risk her heart for a summer fling.
I enjoyed the library setting and the story was cute.
The sights, the quirks, the food and drink as well as local restaurants all get mentioned. It was very fun to read since I have lived in the Detroit area for three years and a lot of places mentioned in the book seemed quite familiar.
As far as the romance goes: at 29 and after a disappointing long term relationship Paige is determined to find her match, get married, settle down and have kids. She’s a librarian in Michigan when she James, a sexy Scotsman who’s in town doing an artist’s residency for eight weeks. The attraction is immediate and sparks fly, but Paige does not want to risk her heart for a summer fling.
I enjoyed the library setting and the story was cute.
July 12, 2022
Paige is a 29 year old part time librarian working up the ranks to a full time job, learning how to be herself and recognizing her self worth after a break up of a 6 year long relationship. She is not the one for short flings and dating apps.
A handsome Scotsman James ends up arriving in town for his art residency and visits her library.
There is an immediate attraction between them right at the library desk. But obviously, James is off limit for Paige considering he’s only there for the summer, but will they be able to stay just friends?
A handsome Scotsman James ends up arriving in town for his art residency and visits her library.
There is an immediate attraction between them right at the library desk. But obviously, James is off limit for Paige considering he’s only there for the summer, but will they be able to stay just friends?
April 17, 2022
This is my first read from Alana Oxford. Let me just say this has to be one of my favorite books to date so far! I absolutely loved how Oxford told Paige and James' Story. It was a cute little romcom between a librarian and a Scotsman. I am huge lover of all thing British/Irish/Scottish. This satisfied my hunger for all of those in just the matter of an hour two, I'm quite the quick reader. This tells the story of Paige, a librarian in her late 20s, and James, an artist in his mid to late 20s (Just a bit younger than Paige). Paige had just gone through a breakup with her long time boyfriend with commitment issues and meets James at her job in the library, Turns out they have much more in common than just books. At first they are just friends but they slowly realize they are meant for each other. I can't say enough good things about this book. I would love to see another book in the book universe or series! Thank you again to NetGalley and 8N Publishing for the ARC!!
April 21, 2022
Super cute story!
It was the first time reading this author and I enjoyed the writing style and the characters.
Paige is a librarian in Michigan and she meets James, a Scotsman spending eight weeks there for an art residency.
I really liked how Paige and James hit it off as friends, and how her friends also welcomed him.
I would have liked an epilogue with more to the ending, as a sort of full circle to Paige's opening chapter.
I received a copy from the publisher via NetGalley and this is my honest opinion.
It was the first time reading this author and I enjoyed the writing style and the characters.
Paige is a librarian in Michigan and she meets James, a Scotsman spending eight weeks there for an art residency.
I really liked how Paige and James hit it off as friends, and how her friends also welcomed him.
I would have liked an epilogue with more to the ending, as a sort of full circle to Paige's opening chapter.
I received a copy from the publisher via NetGalley and this is my honest opinion.
April 28, 2022
This was a cute and gunny romance book, very light and quick
Paige is a librarian looking for the love of her life, I loved her friendship with Kayla they were an amazing duo, it reminds me of my bestie and I. They were so relatable.
James, the scotsman, was amazing, sweet, caring and the absolute personification of prince charming, or I assume that because some words use I couldn’t quite grasp their meaning 😅
ARC provided in exchange of my honest opinion
Paige is a librarian looking for the love of her life, I loved her friendship with Kayla they were an amazing duo, it reminds me of my bestie and I. They were so relatable.
James, the scotsman, was amazing, sweet, caring and the absolute personification of prince charming, or I assume that because some words use I couldn’t quite grasp their meaning 😅
ARC provided in exchange of my honest opinion
May 2, 2022
Scotsman in the Stacks by Alana Oxford should have been a charming beach read but it’s a slog through dark, dank, pond water that’s probably full of leeches and water snakes and maybe alligators. Bored alligators that probably can’t be bothered to eat you … but do you want to chance it?
Paige, our librarian protagonist, really wants to be married. She wants to be married so much that she … hold onto your seats, readers … she’s going to … GASP … ask her boyfriend of six years to marry her. I know, I know. What’s next? Are these forward young ladies going to start wearing trousers? Soon they’ll be wanting bank accounts and regular employment.
Paige is shocked, shocked by how bold she’s being but the poor girl just can’t wait any longer. She has to get married so she can have children. Those eggs aren’t getting any fresher, if you know what I mean. It’s not like she could just have a child without getting married. Is that even legal? Who would support her?
Okay, enough misogyny. Let’s move on. There are other really terrible aspects of this book for us to discuss.
Unfortunately, the author leans into the really troubling practice of describing unlikable people as physically unattractive. I mean, has she ever heard of Ted Bundy? Appearance doesn’t determine character. That’s a laughably bad trope. Period. She also describes the male love interest’s teeth – and I refuse to say anything more about that.
Finally, and possibly worst of all, the author, apparently to remind us that the male protagonist is Scottish, has written some – but not much – of his dialogue phonetically. This is also bad and authors should not do it, especially if they picked up their (inaccurate) understanding of the Scottish Burr from binge-watching Outlander.
There are a surprising number of errors that seem unlikely to be caught or corrected (because the author likely doesn’t see them as errors). Yes, that is a problem but I can’t really expand on this because I read an ARC. Quotes from an ARC are a big no-no. If you’re curious, you’ll just have to read the book.
The pacing is ludicrous. We spend a lot of time early in the book learning about a relationship collapse that literally has no impact on the entire rest of the story. We could learn in one sentence that Paige just got out of a long relationship (there I did it for you, author). We didn’t need an entire chapter on it.
Then, because our HEA couple gets together far too early in the story (one kiss and BOOM), there is no build up to HEA, no pining, no suspense. Nothing. Instead, the author treats us to a weirdly self-indulgent tour of all her favorite places in Michigan. I’ve been there. It’s nice but we don’t need to read page after page of descriptions of places that aren’t relevant to the story.
The author also shares the minute details of her characters’ lives. We know that Paige brought sweats to the beach for when it gets cold and why she brought sweats to the beach, even though she doesn’t think she’ll look cute.
Oh, and she also brought blankets but they had to walk all the way back to the car to get the blankets so they could sit on the beach to watch the fireworks. And that’s a snippet of how the entire book is written. Read this book if you want to join Paige on her trips to the grocer to buy her best friend ice cream.
We also learn a lot about how cold Lake Michigan is. Do you want to know how we know that Lake Michigan is cold? Because the author tells us three times in the same paragraph. So, yeah, if you decide to travel to one of the Great Lakes this summer (I recommend Lake Erie – Presque Isle is remarkable and there are 11 beaches to visit.), you’ll find the water pretty chilly until August.
So, yeah, the water is cold; beware if you decide to wade into it.
Scotsman in the Stacks by Alana Oxford is scheduled to release on June 14, 2022.
I received a digital ARC through NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
bookbuzzblog.com
Paige, our librarian protagonist, really wants to be married. She wants to be married so much that she … hold onto your seats, readers … she’s going to … GASP … ask her boyfriend of six years to marry her. I know, I know. What’s next? Are these forward young ladies going to start wearing trousers? Soon they’ll be wanting bank accounts and regular employment.
Paige is shocked, shocked by how bold she’s being but the poor girl just can’t wait any longer. She has to get married so she can have children. Those eggs aren’t getting any fresher, if you know what I mean. It’s not like she could just have a child without getting married. Is that even legal? Who would support her?
Okay, enough misogyny. Let’s move on. There are other really terrible aspects of this book for us to discuss.
Unfortunately, the author leans into the really troubling practice of describing unlikable people as physically unattractive. I mean, has she ever heard of Ted Bundy? Appearance doesn’t determine character. That’s a laughably bad trope. Period. She also describes the male love interest’s teeth – and I refuse to say anything more about that.
Finally, and possibly worst of all, the author, apparently to remind us that the male protagonist is Scottish, has written some – but not much – of his dialogue phonetically. This is also bad and authors should not do it, especially if they picked up their (inaccurate) understanding of the Scottish Burr from binge-watching Outlander.
There are a surprising number of errors that seem unlikely to be caught or corrected (because the author likely doesn’t see them as errors). Yes, that is a problem but I can’t really expand on this because I read an ARC. Quotes from an ARC are a big no-no. If you’re curious, you’ll just have to read the book.
The pacing is ludicrous. We spend a lot of time early in the book learning about a relationship collapse that literally has no impact on the entire rest of the story. We could learn in one sentence that Paige just got out of a long relationship (there I did it for you, author). We didn’t need an entire chapter on it.
Then, because our HEA couple gets together far too early in the story (one kiss and BOOM), there is no build up to HEA, no pining, no suspense. Nothing. Instead, the author treats us to a weirdly self-indulgent tour of all her favorite places in Michigan. I’ve been there. It’s nice but we don’t need to read page after page of descriptions of places that aren’t relevant to the story.
The author also shares the minute details of her characters’ lives. We know that Paige brought sweats to the beach for when it gets cold and why she brought sweats to the beach, even though she doesn’t think she’ll look cute.
Oh, and she also brought blankets but they had to walk all the way back to the car to get the blankets so they could sit on the beach to watch the fireworks. And that’s a snippet of how the entire book is written. Read this book if you want to join Paige on her trips to the grocer to buy her best friend ice cream.
We also learn a lot about how cold Lake Michigan is. Do you want to know how we know that Lake Michigan is cold? Because the author tells us three times in the same paragraph. So, yeah, if you decide to travel to one of the Great Lakes this summer (I recommend Lake Erie – Presque Isle is remarkable and there are 11 beaches to visit.), you’ll find the water pretty chilly until August.
So, yeah, the water is cold; beware if you decide to wade into it.
Scotsman in the Stacks by Alana Oxford is scheduled to release on June 14, 2022.
I received a digital ARC through NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
bookbuzzblog.com
May 4, 2022
I'd like to start off by thanking NetGalley, 8N Publishing as well as the author Alana Oxford for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
I absolutely adored this book! It was a cute, fun, slow burn romance that all started in a library (SWOON!) I also loved that James' dialect was written the same way that he would speak it. At times I had a hard time pronouncing the way it was written, but otherwise I mostly got giggles out of all the different he says things.
I would definitely recommend this book!
I absolutely adored this book! It was a cute, fun, slow burn romance that all started in a library (SWOON!) I also loved that James' dialect was written the same way that he would speak it. At times I had a hard time pronouncing the way it was written, but otherwise I mostly got giggles out of all the different he says things.
I would definitely recommend this book!
April 13, 2022
Paige is a newly-single, part-time librarian at a public library in Michigan. While at work she deals with a variety of patrons, including an attractive man with a Scottish accent named James. James is an artist-in-residency in town for 8 weeks. Paige and James strike up a conversation and start a relationship.
Unfortunately that's pretty much the entire plot of the novel. I was excited for this one because the cover is super cute and I'm also a librarian and I love reading about other librarians. However, I found Paige to be judgmental of her patrons which is a big no-no. There is also very little chemistry between Paige and James. For most of the novel Paige is mopey and feels sorry for herself, but at the end she suddenly gets a tattoo inspired by James and they decide to move in together after less than 8 weeks of knowing each other. I know it's fiction, but it just doesn't seem realistic. This book was just very bland.
CW: emergency c-section for side character (on-page), heart attack of family member (off-page)
Unfortunately that's pretty much the entire plot of the novel. I was excited for this one because the cover is super cute and I'm also a librarian and I love reading about other librarians. However, I found Paige to be judgmental of her patrons which is a big no-no. There is also very little chemistry between Paige and James. For most of the novel Paige is mopey and feels sorry for herself, but at the end she suddenly gets a tattoo inspired by James and they decide to move in together after less than 8 weeks of knowing each other. I know it's fiction, but it just doesn't seem realistic. This book was just very bland.
CW: emergency c-section for side character (on-page), heart attack of family member (off-page)
April 9, 2022
3.5/5 stars
First of all, let me thank NetGalley, Xpresso Book Tours and the author – Alana Oxford, for giving me the opportunity to read this book before the release date. I’m very grateful for the opportunity!
“Scotsman in the stacks” brings us the story of 29-year-old Paige, who has recently finished a long-term relationship with her boyfriend. Paige was ready to settle down – marry and have kids, but Dylan (her ex) was not on the same page. Paige is a librarian, and, during her work, she will meet James, who is in town for only 8 weeks. They immediately start flirting but she is looking for something long-term.
This was such a sweet sweet story! For starters, I really appreciate books that are, somehow, related to books. I loved the fact that Paige was a librarian, it was one of the things that first draw me to the story and made me request it. I felt the author made an effort to bring us more than just the fact that Paige is a librarian – she brings us problems with customers (and make us appreciate all of those working in public service) and the dynamization of a book club.
I really appreciated some small details in this book that, I felt, make an effort for gender equality: I mean, we get men setting the table for dinner and doing the dishes after and we get a female character constantly driving a male character around. It’s the little things people! We hardly ever see this reverse of typical roles in books (and other forms of fiction).
During the first half of the book, Paige was really focused on finding a long-term relationship. I do understand the difficulty, especially since it’s not a matter we can take only in our hands. It takes two to tango, so Paige wanting a family was not something she could just solve all by herself. Not considering the format of family she wanted, at least. I liked the topic, as we, women, actually can’t have babies whenever, so I thought it was a valid concern. However, and this is what made me lower my ranking, I felt this was the main aspect of the first half of the book, making it somehow repetitive and lacking character development in other areas of life (and development of secondary characters). Additionally, I felt the female main character was too perfect, therefore not so much credible as I would have liked to see.
The story was slow at first, which made sense, as the main characters were getting to know one another, but made me feel something was missing. The second part just put me a smile on my face the whole time. It’s very sweet, more fast paced and I laugh at some parts, which I always appreciate as reading is my relaxation time.
Overall, I enjoyed this book and wound recommend it to anyone looking for a cute read to get some rest in the weekend – it did wonders for me, as I was really needing to invest in a book and escape real life for a minute or two.
First of all, let me thank NetGalley, Xpresso Book Tours and the author – Alana Oxford, for giving me the opportunity to read this book before the release date. I’m very grateful for the opportunity!
“Scotsman in the stacks” brings us the story of 29-year-old Paige, who has recently finished a long-term relationship with her boyfriend. Paige was ready to settle down – marry and have kids, but Dylan (her ex) was not on the same page. Paige is a librarian, and, during her work, she will meet James, who is in town for only 8 weeks. They immediately start flirting but she is looking for something long-term.
This was such a sweet sweet story! For starters, I really appreciate books that are, somehow, related to books. I loved the fact that Paige was a librarian, it was one of the things that first draw me to the story and made me request it. I felt the author made an effort to bring us more than just the fact that Paige is a librarian – she brings us problems with customers (and make us appreciate all of those working in public service) and the dynamization of a book club.
I really appreciated some small details in this book that, I felt, make an effort for gender equality: I mean, we get men setting the table for dinner and doing the dishes after and we get a female character constantly driving a male character around. It’s the little things people! We hardly ever see this reverse of typical roles in books (and other forms of fiction).
During the first half of the book, Paige was really focused on finding a long-term relationship. I do understand the difficulty, especially since it’s not a matter we can take only in our hands. It takes two to tango, so Paige wanting a family was not something she could just solve all by herself. Not considering the format of family she wanted, at least. I liked the topic, as we, women, actually can’t have babies whenever, so I thought it was a valid concern. However, and this is what made me lower my ranking, I felt this was the main aspect of the first half of the book, making it somehow repetitive and lacking character development in other areas of life (and development of secondary characters). Additionally, I felt the female main character was too perfect, therefore not so much credible as I would have liked to see.
The story was slow at first, which made sense, as the main characters were getting to know one another, but made me feel something was missing. The second part just put me a smile on my face the whole time. It’s very sweet, more fast paced and I laugh at some parts, which I always appreciate as reading is my relaxation time.
Overall, I enjoyed this book and wound recommend it to anyone looking for a cute read to get some rest in the weekend – it did wonders for me, as I was really needing to invest in a book and escape real life for a minute or two.
April 24, 2022
‘scotsman in the stacks’ follows the story of librarian, paige i-forgot-her-last-name and scotsman, james mackinnon. one day, after realizing her boyfriend of six years isn't going to commit to her, paige breaks up with him, goes to work the next day (that was a metaphor; it actually happens six months later), meets the wonderful james and falls head over heels for that wonderful red goatee. ‘oh my! your accent has made me lose my marbles! marry me!’
i have mixed feelings about instalove. if it's executed correctly, it can be amazing. in this book - it wasn't really that good. i understand swooning over a tall, muscly man, but a ginger?? with a scottish accent??? nothing against scottish people, but i wouldve preffered a brit. i didn't understand how to pronounce half of the things he said and had to use the wiktionary speech thing. im still confused on how to say ‘dinnae’
the saddest part of all - there wasn't any smut. definitely shed a tear over that. you can't have a burly, nice, tattooed man and not write extremely detailed sex scenes - it goes against moral code.
i think this could've used more tension, build-up. during their first conversation it was as if they were birthing their third child. some anticipation would've made it much better.
overall, it was okay. it dragged at some parts. not a huge fan, but i don't dislike it, either. neutral ground.
i have mixed feelings about instalove. if it's executed correctly, it can be amazing. in this book - it wasn't really that good. i understand swooning over a tall, muscly man, but a ginger?? with a scottish accent??? nothing against scottish people, but i wouldve preffered a brit. i didn't understand how to pronounce half of the things he said and had to use the wiktionary speech thing. im still confused on how to say ‘dinnae’
the saddest part of all - there wasn't any smut. definitely shed a tear over that. you can't have a burly, nice, tattooed man and not write extremely detailed sex scenes - it goes against moral code.
i think this could've used more tension, build-up. during their first conversation it was as if they were birthing their third child. some anticipation would've made it much better.
overall, it was okay. it dragged at some parts. not a huge fan, but i don't dislike it, either. neutral ground.
July 25, 2022
Such a sweet, true friends to lovers, feel-good novel.
I adored Paige, a sweetheart librarian who just came out of a long distance relationship that was just absolutely going nowhere. Scott, her friend for now *smirks* is a Scottish artists that is in Michigan for the summer.
I love a good enemies to lovers, but books like these make me realize I love friends to lovers just as equally. With that being said, there were some occasions where I didn’t enjoy Paige’s character that much, but again, other chapters I loved her. Its not necessarily gripping or deep, but a quick no-brainer read.
I adored Paige, a sweetheart librarian who just came out of a long distance relationship that was just absolutely going nowhere. Scott, her friend for now *smirks* is a Scottish artists that is in Michigan for the summer.
I love a good enemies to lovers, but books like these make me realize I love friends to lovers just as equally. With that being said, there were some occasions where I didn’t enjoy Paige’s character that much, but again, other chapters I loved her. Its not necessarily gripping or deep, but a quick no-brainer read.
June 28, 2022
Scotsman in the stacks is about Paige whose looking for a husband.
She ends up meeting a Scotsman but he isn’t going to stay long. But she can’t deny her attraction. This book was sweet and good. This was adorable and I totally recommend it !
She ends up meeting a Scotsman but he isn’t going to stay long. But she can’t deny her attraction. This book was sweet and good. This was adorable and I totally recommend it !
May 10, 2025
Super cute, especially if you love Michigan.
June 7, 2022
There wasn't anything particularly wrong with this book but I found it boring. There was alot of telling the reader and not letting imagination take the reader on a journey.
I found the characters one dimensional and I had no interest in reading about them.
This was a miss for me. Better off looking for something else.
I received an arc of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I found the characters one dimensional and I had no interest in reading about them.
This was a miss for me. Better off looking for something else.
I received an arc of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 11, 2022
I have entertained many fantasises about the perfect guy sweeping me off my feet in the middle of the library / bookstore, but never in any of those fantasies did he dare overhear me talking about “sex over fifty” on the phone! 😂 Unfortunately for Paige, that’s exactly how it went down in this humorous meet cute between her and the new Scotsman in town.
It was attraction at first sight for Paige and James, and much as Paige resisted while holding out for a long term commitment, that endearing smile and Scottish accent were impossible for her to resist. Sweet, charming, and chivalrous, James’ fondness for Paige won her over, their descent into romance worthy of a fairytale.
Theirs was a quick and seamless love story filled with all the good feelings and Michigan charm, to the point it often felt a lot of the potential for continued tension and conflict dissolved once their hearts won out. I personally would have liked to see a little more turbulence and challenge inflicted on these two so their eventual HEA felt more grounded, but overall it was still a cute and enjoyable read.
I did admire the time spent by Paige learning to recognise her own value and worth outside of a relationship, while James’ worked on prioritising his dream and who he wanted to be outside of his family’s expectations. Both messages which Oxford has done well to breathe into their characters, and the artistry that James created sounds beautiful. I wish I could have seen it for myself!
There was no shortage of kindness or fondness with these two, so if you’re looking for a cute and mellow Hallmark like romance about finding one’s self without all the dramatics and angst, then this may just be the read for you.
Thank you to NetGalley and 8N Publishing for the advanced copy.
It was attraction at first sight for Paige and James, and much as Paige resisted while holding out for a long term commitment, that endearing smile and Scottish accent were impossible for her to resist. Sweet, charming, and chivalrous, James’ fondness for Paige won her over, their descent into romance worthy of a fairytale.
Theirs was a quick and seamless love story filled with all the good feelings and Michigan charm, to the point it often felt a lot of the potential for continued tension and conflict dissolved once their hearts won out. I personally would have liked to see a little more turbulence and challenge inflicted on these two so their eventual HEA felt more grounded, but overall it was still a cute and enjoyable read.
I did admire the time spent by Paige learning to recognise her own value and worth outside of a relationship, while James’ worked on prioritising his dream and who he wanted to be outside of his family’s expectations. Both messages which Oxford has done well to breathe into their characters, and the artistry that James created sounds beautiful. I wish I could have seen it for myself!
There was no shortage of kindness or fondness with these two, so if you’re looking for a cute and mellow Hallmark like romance about finding one’s self without all the dramatics and angst, then this may just be the read for you.
Thank you to NetGalley and 8N Publishing for the advanced copy.
April 30, 2022
This is not a bad book; it's just a book that didn't resonate for me. I'm glad that I read it, though, because it helped me solidify my thoughts on what I do really like in this genre, which will help me make reading choices that will align more with my personal preferences. So don't let this put you off from this book as I think it definitely will appeal to many readers.
This book caught my attention for two reasons: the main character is a librarian and the love interest is from Scotland. I like Outlander and Jamie Fraser, and the love interest in this book, James, very much feels modeled upon Jamie (red hair, blue eyes), almost like a contemporary version of him.
The relationship in this book is "instalove" which I've realized just doesn't work for me. I much prefer more of a slow burn and lead up with the characters not getting together until toward the end of the book. But if you like seeing characters get together early on and watch their relationship progress, you might like this book.
I found the book to have a lack of tension. The main obstacle the couple faces is that James is in the States for only 8 weeks for an art residency and will be returning to Scotland after that. And although Paige at first hesitates to get involved since she knows he'll be leaving, that gets pushed aside. And she remembers it every now and then but decides to not worry about it then. There's one event that heightens this obstacle, but it doesn't ever really feel like it's big enough to keep them apart. I like knowing that the couple will get together in the end (definitely want my HEA), but I want a lot more tension and will they, won't they through the book so it seems like there might be a real possibility it won't end happily. However, if you need a nice, relaxing book where the tension is light, this could be a good book for you.
I'm not a fan of super spicy books, but I don't mind a little spice. I've realized I like to have one spicy scene once the couple gets together. You won't find that here. It's all fade to black. Actually, it's not clear at all whether James and Paige actually had sex. So depending on how you feel about spice, that might be a point in this book's favor for you.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing this eARC.
This book caught my attention for two reasons: the main character is a librarian and the love interest is from Scotland. I like Outlander and Jamie Fraser, and the love interest in this book, James, very much feels modeled upon Jamie (red hair, blue eyes), almost like a contemporary version of him.
The relationship in this book is "instalove" which I've realized just doesn't work for me. I much prefer more of a slow burn and lead up with the characters not getting together until toward the end of the book. But if you like seeing characters get together early on and watch their relationship progress, you might like this book.
I found the book to have a lack of tension. The main obstacle the couple faces is that James is in the States for only 8 weeks for an art residency and will be returning to Scotland after that. And although Paige at first hesitates to get involved since she knows he'll be leaving, that gets pushed aside. And she remembers it every now and then but decides to not worry about it then. There's one event that heightens this obstacle, but it doesn't ever really feel like it's big enough to keep them apart. I like knowing that the couple will get together in the end (definitely want my HEA), but I want a lot more tension and will they, won't they through the book so it seems like there might be a real possibility it won't end happily. However, if you need a nice, relaxing book where the tension is light, this could be a good book for you.
I'm not a fan of super spicy books, but I don't mind a little spice. I've realized I like to have one spicy scene once the couple gets together. You won't find that here. It's all fade to black. Actually, it's not clear at all whether James and Paige actually had sex. So depending on how you feel about spice, that might be a point in this book's favor for you.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing this eARC.
May 2, 2022
Thank you NetGalley and 8N Publishing for this ARC in exchange for my fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
Rating: 2.5 (rounded 3 Stars)
Publication Date: 6/14/22
Number of Pages: 260
“Scotsman in the Stacks” is a sweet romance filled with loveable characters…a Scotsman and a librarian. Although the story started out at a nice pace, it dropped off a bit and became slow. There were parts of the story that were not fully developed.
The story is about Paige who wants to become a full-time librarian and find the man of her dreams. She is in a relationship that goes sour and hopes of one day finding someone to love. By chance she meets James who is visiting from Scotland on a summer residency and from the pressures he has at home but his brief stay puts Paige in his life. Unfortunate for Paige, she only has eight weeks that have her investing that time and her heart on the line as she has already given up so much in her previously failed relationship. One she thought would lead to marriage and children. This my first problem in the story as the heroine believes a part time job and long term relationship will have her then boyfriend want to propose marriage…a bit far-fetched.
Not sure about the pacing but it felt a bit slow. I could have cared less about her current relationship and what let up to the breakup. This story was way to descriptive and not a telling…and a bit repetitive in places throughout the story. I looked at this way, Paige had just got of a relationship and jumped right back into one I guess for biological reasons. Enter James and she loses her heart. Later she rethinks her choices as James had to go back to Scotland on an emergency. Hmm…if she didn’t jump right in, things could have gone slower and not rushed in eight weeks. Also, I overestimated the Scot as I thought this story was going to include some heat and steamy but not forthcoming.
I thought the sub characters (friend and her husband) were nice additions to the story. However, the author did an okay job with the characters but they could have been developed more. I was also looking for some angst and conflict somewhere in the story. This story kept me wanting and fell a bit flat and had me pushing to finish to the end.
Rating: 2.5 (rounded 3 Stars)
Publication Date: 6/14/22
Number of Pages: 260
“Scotsman in the Stacks” is a sweet romance filled with loveable characters…a Scotsman and a librarian. Although the story started out at a nice pace, it dropped off a bit and became slow. There were parts of the story that were not fully developed.
The story is about Paige who wants to become a full-time librarian and find the man of her dreams. She is in a relationship that goes sour and hopes of one day finding someone to love. By chance she meets James who is visiting from Scotland on a summer residency and from the pressures he has at home but his brief stay puts Paige in his life. Unfortunate for Paige, she only has eight weeks that have her investing that time and her heart on the line as she has already given up so much in her previously failed relationship. One she thought would lead to marriage and children. This my first problem in the story as the heroine believes a part time job and long term relationship will have her then boyfriend want to propose marriage…a bit far-fetched.
Not sure about the pacing but it felt a bit slow. I could have cared less about her current relationship and what let up to the breakup. This story was way to descriptive and not a telling…and a bit repetitive in places throughout the story. I looked at this way, Paige had just got of a relationship and jumped right back into one I guess for biological reasons. Enter James and she loses her heart. Later she rethinks her choices as James had to go back to Scotland on an emergency. Hmm…if she didn’t jump right in, things could have gone slower and not rushed in eight weeks. Also, I overestimated the Scot as I thought this story was going to include some heat and steamy but not forthcoming.
I thought the sub characters (friend and her husband) were nice additions to the story. However, the author did an okay job with the characters but they could have been developed more. I was also looking for some angst and conflict somewhere in the story. This story kept me wanting and fell a bit flat and had me pushing to finish to the end.
April 18, 2022
*Thank you NetGalley for providing an E-ARC in exchange for an honest review.*
Paige, a public librarian from Michigan, has just about given up on love after her split with her long-time boyfriend. She wants commitment, no more flings or glaring red flags. That is, until a handsome man with a Scottish accent walks into her library.
Despite a slow start, Scotsman is a very cute whirlwind romance. It doesn’t fall too far into the insta-love trope, and really allows the relationship to build throughout the story. I adore Paige and James as a couple! I also felt so seen with the commentary about Paige’s job as a librarian in a public library - from the mythical full time 40 hour/week positions to the over-friendly patrons, those little details made me smile. As public librarians, boundaries are *crucial* and I was so happy to see Paige’s character growth.
I was also impressed with how this romance doesn’t overuse miscommunication as a plot device, like lots of romances that I have read. Paige is very straightforward, stating she doesn’t want a fling. Further into the book, when James is suddenly pulled back to Scotland, he flat out tells Paige that he will be back and that what is between them is important enough to fight for. It was refreshing to not read a very predictable third-act-breakup where no one speaks to each other like adults. Absolutely love seeing open and honest communication when it comes to contemporary romance! My only real gripe is in the beginning of the book, we are told that Paige is 29, yet she has this “my biological clock is ticking!” mindset. 1) girl 29 is not old at all and 2) the concept of a biological clock, especially so young, bothers me just a little bit. Turning 30 is not the death sentence we try to convince women that it is. It was a small inclusion, but it’s just one of those personal things that hurts my soul to see a female character believe.
This is a quick, fun read that will remind you that good people and good partners still exist. 4 out of 5 stars.
Paige, a public librarian from Michigan, has just about given up on love after her split with her long-time boyfriend. She wants commitment, no more flings or glaring red flags. That is, until a handsome man with a Scottish accent walks into her library.
Despite a slow start, Scotsman is a very cute whirlwind romance. It doesn’t fall too far into the insta-love trope, and really allows the relationship to build throughout the story. I adore Paige and James as a couple! I also felt so seen with the commentary about Paige’s job as a librarian in a public library - from the mythical full time 40 hour/week positions to the over-friendly patrons, those little details made me smile. As public librarians, boundaries are *crucial* and I was so happy to see Paige’s character growth.
I was also impressed with how this romance doesn’t overuse miscommunication as a plot device, like lots of romances that I have read. Paige is very straightforward, stating she doesn’t want a fling. Further into the book, when James is suddenly pulled back to Scotland, he flat out tells Paige that he will be back and that what is between them is important enough to fight for. It was refreshing to not read a very predictable third-act-breakup where no one speaks to each other like adults. Absolutely love seeing open and honest communication when it comes to contemporary romance! My only real gripe is in the beginning of the book, we are told that Paige is 29, yet she has this “my biological clock is ticking!” mindset. 1) girl 29 is not old at all and 2) the concept of a biological clock, especially so young, bothers me just a little bit. Turning 30 is not the death sentence we try to convince women that it is. It was a small inclusion, but it’s just one of those personal things that hurts my soul to see a female character believe.
This is a quick, fun read that will remind you that good people and good partners still exist. 4 out of 5 stars.
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