In The Highlands By Julie Shackman — The Cottage

: The ruthless editor of Goddess magazine, whose demanding management style provides much of the book's workplace drama. Major Themes

While walking her rescue puppy, Leonie discovers an abandoned but fully furnished cottage deep in the woods. Her journalistic curiosity is piqued, but her attempts to learn more are repeatedly blocked by , a grumpy elderly neighbor living next door who is fiercely protective of the cottage's secrets. Inside the house, Leonie finds a mysterious letter from a man named Flynn Talbot , sparking an investigation that weaves together past secrets and present-day romance. Key Characters The Cottage in the Highlands by Julie Shackman

: A principled and loyal journalist who stays true to herself even when working in a high-pressure, "Devil Wears Prada"-style office environment. : The ruthless editor of Goddess magazine, whose

: 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. Inside the house, Leonie finds a mysterious letter