From the beautiful cover, breathtaking stepback to the little extra details of a family tree and glossary this historical romance is full of adventure.

A Highlander, a spinster, an abbey, whisky, a collection of books and archery make this absolutely fun and fabulous. Bold, brave, and determined our heroine will discover the truth surrounding the mysterious Duke and what really happened to his wife.

Everyone deserves a chance at love no matter the path, will the Duke of Montrose finally find peace with his past? Will Catriona MacKenzie discover love despite her years?

Don't miss this slow burn must read!

[ His presence, his words, his title, his disapproval—none of it could fluster this woman. And Hamlin was utterly intrigued by it. She was smiling at him as he glared at her. She found him amusing in that way she found everything amusing. She was truly remarkable in a way he'd never known another person to be. ]

4 stars
I adored this book and most specifically, the two leading characters and two of the supporting characters—the heroine's uncle and the hero's ward. Catriona (33) easily made it onto my Favorite Romance Heroines list, though with that first scene where she's drunk off her ass and super belligerent, I started off a bit wary lol. She is such a wonderful character though! I loved her strength, independence, vulnerability, kindness, good humor, courage, generosity—just everything about this heroine is lovely and you're rooting for her from the get-go (minus the drunk belligerent scene).

I also appreciated how she had carved out a life for herself, and felt for the fact that she had taken these chances and done good works that left their mark on her choices in life and her reputation, but that she was still hoping against hope, deep down, that she could have a husband and family one day, even though she thought that would never happen now, because of her "advanced" age and her choices. As her relationship with Hamlin develops, it's impossible not to cheer for her and be scared on her behalf for how it will all turn out okay

[ He was the pull of the moon on the sea of her longing, and it was impossible to resist. She was torn between the woman she'd been until now, and the woman she was suddenly becoming. She couldn't say which was truer to her heart. She couldn't say. For the first time in years, she could not, with confidence, say who she was. ]

Hamlin (almost 40) was a lovely hero, though he starts off as an unknown quantity, for sure. Especially the fact that it is hidden from the reader for so long what the situation is with his wife (is she even dead? did she run away? was she murdered by someone else? did she kill herself? who knows!!) makes him a bit inaccessible. We know his marriage was a bad one, but this past year has also shaped him into a different person, and it's a bit hard to fully understand that impact given we don't know the circumstances for so long.

He starts off very cold and distant, but you quickly feel for the horrible position he's in, even if you don't know the truth of what really happened (we obviously know that he's not a murderer, because he's the hero). The social isolation he experiences and the rumors and innuendos he has to deal with are really heart-breaking, and you can't help but be ecstatic when the force that is Catriona enters his world and starts to shake things up and bring some happiness and joy to his life.

[ Her smile broadened. Hamlin was aware of his heartbeat again. It wasn't racing per se, but reminding him that it was very much present and willing to work in any manner necessary in the presence of this woman. ]

His ward, Eula, was such a terrific addition to the cast and she really helps round out his character, because it shows us, and the Catriona, his softer side from the beginning. In their first scene together Eula's instructing him on how to brush and arrange her hair and it's just adorable. When done right, kids can be a huge bonus to a romance and London definitely got it right here. I love her spunky character and all of Catriona's and Hamlin's interactions with her. Uncle Knox was also lovely and I adored how he was so proud of Catriona and everything that made her unique and essentially her.

I would say my biggest criticism was the unknown factor of the wife and the resulting impact on the reading experience. For me, it contributed to a lot of angst, because it made the possible future of their relationship totally unclear (I don't like angst). Obviously, whatever the circumstances, I knew that it would somehow be resolved because it's a romance and there is a HEA, but the not knowing more drove me nuts. It created this uneasiness for me once they moved forward in their relationship that made it a bit hard for me to enjoy what was going on, because I was partly holding my breath waiting for everything to come crashing down. The walls felt like they were closing in, what with his campaign to win a seat in the House of Lords and the situation with his dead-or-living-wife undoubtedly coming to a head. I hated that their relationship was such a danger to both of them (obviously not physically, but reputation- and etc.-wise).

[ She was, he believed, the companion of his heart. ]

*This review is of an ARC provided by NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Some changes and/or edits may be made to the final published version.

2.5 Stars

Tempting the Laird features a romance between a man accused of killing his first wife and the Highland woman determined to find out his secrets.

Catriona Mackenzie was taught to speak her mind and nothing will stop her from doing so. After the women's refuge she inherited from her aunt comes under threat, Cat is determined to do what she can to save it which leads her to travel to her uncle's estate to ask for help. Upon arrival Cat learns the mysterious duke next door is accused of killing his wife which intrigues Cat who begins a search for the truth. Hamlin Graham, Duke of Montrose, is after a coveted parliamentary seat which means the truth of his wife's disappearance must be kept secret. Keeping those secrets has never been an issue for Hamlin until he meets the unexpected Cat who makes Hamlin want to lay bare his darkest truths.

Cat has spent her entire life being able to do as she pleases with most of her family generally encouraging her independent nature. I did struggle a bit with Cat's character as while I liked her boldness, her character was written very inconsistently regarding what she wants. Initially she's willing to burn everything down to save the women's refuge, but as the book goes on she seemingly forgot all about the place. Hamlin unfortunately has a lot of traits that I don't love in my romance heroes. I didn't like how much he kept from the heroine as well as the fact that he seemingly thought he could just ignore where his and Cat's relationship was going to go with no consequences.

Ultimately the romance between Cat and Hamlin really didn't work for me. I felt the pair had no chemistry and while the steamier scenes were well written, I didn't care about them as I didn't care about couple in them. Initially a large part of the attraction in their romance was due to the mysterious nature of both characters. Hamlin obviously had a lot of secrets and Cat wasn't one to behave as ladies usually did so her every move was unexpected. While that kind of premise for a relationship would normally appeal to me, I just felt theirs never moved beyond that. I didn't see any evidence of their relationship deepening which made it hard for me to get attached to them as a couple.

Overall Tempting the Laird wasn't for me but I am interested in checking out the rest of the series in the future.

Intriguing read that will keep your attention. Definitely one to read. The connection between the characters is easily felt through the authors wonderful writing

Julia London is always one of my go-tos when I need a good book to read! She paints a wonderfully historic world and bright, vivid characters. This book was no exception. You get a little mystery, some romance and of course, a happily ever after.

Cat is a refreshingly older heroine - and not just in her mid twenties - but 33! I laughed endearingly when we learned that. It reminded me of when I first started reading romances and was the same age as some of those late teen/early twenties girls, and now sometimes reading these younger people finding love gives me pause as I'm reminded of how poorly I chose "soulmates" at that age. So meeting Cat just a touch older than usual, I was immediately taken by her "speak-her-mind" attitude, curiosity, and big-hearted nature.

Hamlin, the beast to our beauty, was more reserved and broody than the usual charming chaps that act as hero. Rumors abound regarding his first wife and what might have happened to her. Most believe he's a murderer, which might be, funnily enough, what first draws Cat to him. He wouldn't care about the rumors if they weren't keeping him from a seat on the House of Lords, however. But since it is, he's trying to figure out how to change the tides while still holding on to his privacy.

These two were fascinated with each other from the beginning, and unlike most stories where flame ignites, this felt far more natural and adult like as they worked together and fell in love together. While I often roll my eyes at the speed in which people fall in romances, I almost wish this book had picked up the pace just a little bit. For all their fascination, they took their sweet time, didn't they?

Over all, a great read though, again, anything London writes is usually 5 star material to my mind. This was no exception. And what an interesting ending! Definitely worth the read!

All opinions are my own and freely given.

A refreshing read that focuses on an older, ahead of her time (in regards to social justice causes) lady who is thought to be on the shelf. She rallies to prove to others that the “Dark Duke” is not the monster he is thought to be. Wonderful dialogue between all characters, even those you wish to hate.

Thank you to the author and Netgalley for the opportunity to access an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

This wasn’t my favorite book in this series but it was still a great read.
Catriona Mackenzie doesn’t follow the beaten path and instead lives a life many would found outrageous for a woman of her station. She finds meaning in running the home her late Aunt Zelda started for woman, but still feels the pain of not having a family of her own. In order to help save this refuge she travels to see her uncle in an effort to convince a representative of the crown not not take the land. What she was expecting to meet was Hamlin Graham, Duke of Montrose.
Hamlin lives scorned from local society. When his wife mysteriously disappeared the rumors that he murdered her begin to spread and grow. This doesn’t bother Hamlin until he needs his peers’ votes to gain a parliamentary seat. He knows that he will need to improve his reputation and not be engaged in any new scandals.
Yet when Catriona and Hamlin fall into each others’ life no one knows what will happen. Catriona turns Hamlin’s world upside down and Hamlin makes Catriona question her life plans. The best laid plans don’t stand a chance when live enters the scene.

Catriona is in a state of mourning for her dear Aunt Zelda, who she loved and idolized. She learns that the abbey that her Aunt housed homeless children and woman is now being seized by the crown. Cat (Catriona) was planning to continue for her Aunt work in the abbey. Cat is furious to learn that they believe her Aunt committed treason because she housed rebels when the battle of Culloden had ended. Directed by her Mother she decided to go visit her Uncle, Earl of Norwood, he has connections that could help her.

When Cat and her Uncle pay a visit to a neighbor, The Duke of Montrose, Hamlin Graham Cat becomes fascinated with him and his charge Eula. Cat hears stories and rumors about Hamlin, that he possibly killed his wife and her body is missing. Cat invites him and Eula to come for dinner at her Uncles.

Hamlin doesn't have many friends, in fact he has none, he's pretty much an outsider. Only a few know the truth about Hamlin's wife. And Hamlin has a desires to gain a seat in the House of Lords, but with all the rumors it's almost an insurmountable task. Well he decides to attend dinner as this might be a step to somehow gaining that seat.

Hamlin is entranced with Cat. She's a breath of fresh air with her lively personality and her caring heart. Cat is just as fascinated with Hamlin, she knows he is not what people say he is and she is drawn to him.

These two had a wonderful, caring and adult progression to their relationship. I appreciated the care they had for each other and their ability to work together for the good of the goal. The mystery of Hamlin's wife added a nice mysterious touch to the story. And I liked that Cat was older too. The secondary characters were just as complex, likable and entertaining. Well written and was engaged and deep into the story from the first page to the last.

I greatly enjoyed London's most recent Highland Grooms novel, featuring a headstrong heroine and a suitably gothic hero. They both grew together and their story was a delight to read.

Julia London's Tempting the Laird was fantastic! I loved everything about this book! I can hardly wait to see what she comes up with next!

I enjoyed this instalment, however, it wasn't my favourite in the series.
I like the character building for most characters, except that some are a bit too polarised.
The mystery of the wife was so intriguing, that it was quite a bit of a let down when it was revealed. I thought: that's all?
I like Cat, however, she was also rather annoyingly stubborn at times.
The chemistry between the MCs was sizzling and felt tangible.
A sweet, slightly different than usual romance
Definitely would recommend it to lovers of the author and the genre

What a great adventure!!!
I loved this book
So glad to continue reading about this family.
Catriona is adapt at making the best of her situation.
Lesson is this story, don't always listen to rumors.

Tempting the Laird is my first Julia London book. I debated reading it because I am pretty passionate about reading series in order but I thought I'd give it a try and I'm so happy I did. I had no problem following the story without reading the previous books although I'm sure I would have gained some background knowledge if I had.

I love my historical romance and I'm happy to add a Highland focused series to my TBR list. Julia's writing is solid though maybe a tiny bit unpolished in areas. Nothing wrong with it per se, but maybe a couple areas that didn't flow as well as they could have. And definitely nothing that kept me from loving the story.

Cat is amazing! She's got an independent streak a mile wide and a huge heart. Hamlin is broody and and difficult at time and boy, these two are perfect together. There's some mystery woven in, maybe a little danger, and the sexual tension is great. Another historical romance author to add to my list! I'll definitely be reading her other books.

Tempting The Laird is the fifth book in the Highland Grooms series by Julia London. I felt like I might have read other books in the series, and I know I have read more from this author, but I cannot find any related reviews in my archives.

Catriona Mackenzie’s reputation as unruly precedes her everywhere she goes. Her beloved late aunt Zelda taught Cat to live out loud and speak her mind, and that’s exactly what she does when Zelda’s legacy, a refuge for women in need, comes under fire. When her quest puts her in the path of the disturbingly mysterious Hamlin Graham, Duke of Montrose, Cat is soon caught up in the provocative rumors surrounding the dark duke. Shrouded in secrets, a hostage of lies, Hamlin must endure the fear and suspicion of those who believe he is a murderer. The sudden disappearance of his wife and the truth he keeps silent are a risk to his chances at earning a coveted parliamentary seat. But he’s kept his affairs tightly held until a woman with sparkling eyes and brazen determination appears unexpectedly in his life. Deadly allegations might be his downfall, but his unleashed passion could be the duke’s ultimate undoing.

Tempting The Laird is an engaging read, and I enjoyed Catriona's character (and her family) more than anything else from the book. Cat is in her thirties and while her family loves her, they want jher to find the love and life they have all found. Cat is certain that is not to be, so focuses on helping the women and children in her care after her aunt passes away. Loving family also being a meddling family, Cat is tossed into an unwanted adventure. I love that even when she should, she does not care what other people say or think about her. She will do what she considered best and ignore the looks and comments. Hamlin has often tried to do the same, but trying to win a seat in parliament makes him a little more cautious. I thought it had a nice hint of Gothic romance, which resolved itself nicely. The conclusion made me very happy, and I liked that Cat's independence and honest lasted until the very end, rather than her caving to someone else's demands, which often happens. I I loved the pair's banter and the secondary character's effect on their relationship. I have to admit that I read another book fairly recently with several similar secondary characters, which honestly confused me for a bit and sent me down the rabbit hole trying to figure out if the stories are connected and whatnot- but I could find no reason for it.

Tempting The Laird is at well done historical romance, it has well done characters and an entertaining plot. I have to admit that I was so distracted by the secondary character similarities distracted me from the story and led to my mind wandering. I think if I had not read the other book (which I actually highly enjoyed) I might have liked this one more.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The characters, the story, the twists. Very well done. There wasn't really anything I found fault with, which is saying a lot given I am an editor as well.

TEMPTING THE LAIRD is set in the Scottish Highlands with all its beauty and desolation. Catriona Mackenzie is a woman hard to ignore. She is beautiful and comes from a powerful clan, and her Aunt Zelda, never married, taught Cat much about being independent. Now that Cat is 33, she figures marriage is not in the cards for her. And in her will Aunt Zelda left to Cat her refuge for women in need. Cat will be socially if she lives with these women, but she is determined. When the Crown say the refuge must clos, Cat goes to London and meets the mysterious, brooding Hamlin Graham, Duke of Montrose.

Graham is considered a murderer because his wife Glenna is missing. Cat doesn't believe it, and though she is at first wary of the duke, she is determined to find out the truth.

These are likable characters, and the story is well done.

I am going to give 3.5 stars to the book because I feel generous today. The book wasn't one of my liking. I would have loved some romance that actually feels like romance. The developing love between Catriona and the Duke fell short and I would have liked something more passionate. We had many sub-plots that stole the spotlight from the couple. At least we got to see them slowly go from acquaintances to something more, so it's wasn't that insta-love theme that has found its way to the historical romances too. What I like about the highlands is that they are not as restricted as England was at the time and women are able to express themselves more than the average English woman. I loved the duke and his ward. I wish we had more scenes with just the two of them. They were acting like father and daughter and they were cute.

The book was easy to read and I read it very fast. The pace was good, but I wish we had dived a little bit more into the characters and the things that made them act like they did. I also wish we had seen the duke at the parliament since in my head it's a great scene and it would add a lot to his character. With a little hesitation, I would recommend the book.

Catriona MacKenzie is a feisty young woman, and at the grand old age of 33 is now classed as firmly on the shelf, but that doesn’t bother her and she enjoys all that life has to offer. She’d been left an old abbey and since the Battle of Colloden has sheltering homeless women and their children, unfortunately she is told it is to be seized by the English. She is devastated, and turns to her Uncle Knox for help, there must be something they can do.
Hamlin Graham returns to the area, there’s already plenty of rumours abound about the mystery duke, he wants to be voted into the House of Lords so a clean, no nonsense lifestyle is the best. But when Catriana introduces herself, he’s instantly attracted to her.
Is she really the best type for him, and his ambitions?
A great love story, keeps you guessing. A real page turner, the romance was slow and there’s tensions and fun. A great read, highly entertaining, I loved it!

Oh goodness. This is definitely my favorite of the series!

I loved Catriona and Hamlin's story. Ms. London kept me on my toes throughout--this story went in directions I wasn't expecting (and it took forever to find out what the truth was about Hamlin's past...geesh), but I loved what she did with it in the end. Hamlin, aka the dark duke, was absolutely delicious, and his relationship with his small ward (his wife's cousin's child) made my heart happy. I can't say enough about how much I loved what he does at the end to bring about their HEA...I'm bummed we don't get to actually witness it, but it makes sense that Cat (and the reader) are kept in the dark, and really, seeing her learn about it after the fact is almost as good :)

Most of the story is Cat and Hamlin's, so it would work okay as a standalone. If you've read any/all of the other books, though, you're already familiar with Cat and seeing her get to an HEA of her own will be all that much sweeter. Either way, though--read. This. Book! You won't be sorry, I promise!

Rating: 4 1/2 stars / A

I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.

Format: Kindle Edition

Ive been waiting to see if Catriona "Cat" would get her own story and here it is at last. Cat is old enough to have been a spinster for quite some time. She is 33-years-old and wl past marrying age foor the time period this is set in. She has given up on love and children and is a tad jealous of her brothers and sister. Enter the Lord of Montrose.
Hamlin, the Lord of Montrose has been accused by the town gossips of murdering his wife. No one will actually accuse him in front of the authorities because he is a lord and that simply isn't done without hard evidence.
Anyone that's read even one of the books in this series knows that Cat is as headstrong as she is beautiful. She convinces her uncle, with whom she is staying in London, that he should invite Lord Montrose to dinner, if only to satisfy her curiosity. It is a complex but very satisfying story from this pointon out and I loved every minute of it. I definitely recommend it.

* I received an ARC of this book *