: The ruthless editor of Goddess magazine, whose demanding management style provides much of the book's workplace drama. Major Themes
: A mysterious figure who enters Leonie's life as she investigates the letter. Though initially wary of each other, he and Leonie eventually team up to uncover the truth. The Cottage in the Highlands by Julie Shackman
The story follows , a dedicated journalist whose life is upended when she simultaneously loses her job at a local newspaper and her long-term relationship. Forced to start over, she accepts a position at Goddess , a ruthless fashion magazine in Glasgow, which she finds significantly different from her investigative roots. : The ruthless editor of Goddess magazine, whose
: The process of uncovering the house's past serves as a catalyst for Leonie’s own personal growth and recovery from her recent setbacks. Setting The book utilizes contrasting Scottish locations: The story follows , a dedicated journalist whose
: A principled and loyal journalist who stays true to herself even when working in a high-pressure, "Devil Wears Prada"-style office environment.
: The enigmatic next-door neighbor who guards the abandoned cottage. Her own past includes a poignant, long-lost love story with the elder Flynn Talbot.
: The novel features two parallel "second chance" romances—one between the older generation (Lily and Flynn Sr.) and one for Leonie as she rebuilds her life and career.