Picture a Scottish storyteller who turned the rugged Highlands into a backdrop for heartwarming romance—meet Julie Shackman! A former journalist with a lifelong passion for books, this 52-year-old novelist has captured readers’ hearts with her beloved Scottish Escapes series. From overcoming publishing hurdles to crafting cozy tales of love and mystery, Shackman’s journey is as inspiring as her stories.
The Making of Julie Shackman
Born and raised in Scotland, Julie Shackman grew up surrounded by books, thanks to her mother and grandmother, both avid readers. At 13, she devoured Judith Krantz’s Princess Daisy, sparking a dream to write her own novels. However, life had other plans. After studying media and communication in college, she pursued a career in journalism, putting her writing ambitions on hold while raising her two sons. Despite these challenges, her love for storytelling never faded, simmering quietly until she could dedicate herself to fiction.
Shackman’s path to authorship wasn’t easy. Early attempts to break into traditional publishing met with rejection, but her persistence paid off. In 2014, a small publisher released her debut novel as an ebook, marking her first step into the literary world. Her big break came in 2017 when Australian literary agent Selwa Anthony signed her, leading to a deal with Allen & Unwin and, later, HarperCollins’ One More Chapter imprint.
Julie Shackman’s Unforgettable Stories
Julie Shackman’s Scottish Escapes series is a love letter to the Scottish Highlands, blending romance, mystery, and small-town charm. Her debut in the series, A Secret Scottish Escape (2021), follows Layla Devlin, a freelance writer grappling with betrayal and grief who transforms an inherited boathouse into a music venue. With over 30,000 ebook copies sold, it’s a fan favorite for its vivid settings and relatable characters.
Other standout titles include A Scottish Highland Surprise (2022), where wedding planner Sophie Harkness navigates an unexpected inheritance, and The Cottage in the Highlands (2023), which explores journalist Leonie Baxter’s quest for stability after losing her job. Shackman’s latest, A Scottish Island Summer (2025), whisks readers to the Isle of Skye, weaving a tale of a travel blogger’s personal growth and a hunt for a legendary artifact. Her style—rich with sensory descriptions, heartfelt characters, and a touch of humor—creates an immersive escape that feels like a warm Highland hug.
Shackman’s knack for crafting cozy, uplifting narratives shines through her focus on themes like healing, community, and second chances. Her settings, from Loch Harris to Fir Haven, are practically characters themselves, painted with lush details that make readers yearn to visit Scotland. Whether it’s a quirky curse in A Scottish Country Escape or festive cheer in The Christmas Highland Lodge, her stories balance emotional depth with lighthearted fun.
Why Julie Shackman Matters
Julie Shackman’s impact lies in her ability to make romance feel fresh and grounded. Her stories resonate with readers seeking solace in cozy, escapist fiction, offering a blend of heartache and hope that’s perfect for curling up with a cup of tea. Her success with HarperCollins, including a nine-book deal for the Scottish Escapes series, underscores her growing influence in contemporary romance. Beyond her novels, Shackman’s journey from journalist to bestselling author inspires aspiring writers, proving that persistence can turn dreams into reality.
Her work also celebrates Scottish culture, showcasing the Highlands’ beauty and tight-knit communities. Fans praise her for transporting them to idyllic villages where love always finds a way, cementing her as a go-to author for feel-good fiction. With each new release, Shackman continues to build a loyal readership eager for her next heartwarming tale.
- Birth Date: 1972 (age 52)
- Key Works: A Secret Scottish Escape, A Scottish Highland Surprise, The Cottage in the Highlands, A Scottish Island Summer
- Fun Fact: She writes verses for greeting card companies and has an obsession with stationery and handbags!
Ready to escape to the Highlands? Snag A Secret Scottish Escape and dive into Julie Shackman’s cozy, romantic world!