Hamlin, is known as the murdering Duke. His wife has disappeared and the ton has their own ideas of what happened. Hamlin has done nothing to quell the gossip, but now that he wants a seat in the House of Lords he has to do some damage repair. Catriona is heartbroken over the loss of her beloved Aunt Zelda. She is determined to continue her aunt's work of providing a safe place of women and children, but the Crown may take the home and property. She is sent to her Uncle Knox's home and there meets the neighbor Hamlin. Cat has made it her mission to discover the truth about his wife's disappearance. Hamlin is more than happy to spend time with her. They are drawn to each other despite the paths their lives are taking Will they find a way to be together? Loved these two characters and was totally absorbed in their story.

This is book five in the series, but can easily stand alone. Catriona has been allowed to do as she wishes and, as such, has not been pressured to marry. When circumstances send bring her to spend a few weeks with her Uncle, she is brought into direct contact with the mysterious Hamlin, Duke of Montrose. Hamlin has had his own issues, and as Catriona determines to unravel the mystery surrounding him, they both realize what they have been missing in their lives could be right in front of them, if they can overcome the hurdles and grab onto their future happiness.
These two characters are so much fun, and the secondary characters, especially Knox and Eula, were just as interesting. I enjoyed London’s writing and characters, and the humor kept me giggling. This was a fun quick read and pleasurable historical romance set in Scotland, one of my favorite locales.
#JuliaLondon #TemptingtheLaird

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.

Cat and Hamlin are a great match and I loved reading this story. Cat is strong and speaks her mind, which is uncommon in that time, and Hamlin has to abide by society's rules. There is passion, banter, and heart which all make for a great story. This is the fifth installment in Julia London's Highland Grooms series, but it can be read as a stand-alone. I am a long-time fan of Julia London's and I love that each of her books is unique with an interesting and new plot. I would definitely recommend this story, but also the rest of the series!

I was provided an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.

I'm a Julia London fan. She makes each book new and you don't feel like it's the same story over and over. Cat and Hlin's story is one of the best. If you're looking for a story with depth and a roller coaster of emotions grab this one with a box of tissues.

I have really enjoyed the Highland Grooms series from Julia London and was anxiously awaiting "Tempting the Laird" and I wasn't disappointed. The mystery of what happened to Hamlin's wife kept me wondering and guessing and I didn't come any where near the truth. Catriona Mackenzie has been such a strong character throughout the books and it's fun to see her character developed. I loved the character of Hamlin's ward Eula. I think fiesty children always add something to a work. I think this series may be one that I find myself rereading because I like the characters.

I was offered a preview of this book for my review.

I was given an ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review.

While this book can stand alone, I think reading the others first will help with better understanding Catriona. She is my favorite character of this series, and I was very happy to see her get her happily ever after. Sometimes when you read a series, the secondary characters that you love don't seem to translate to their own stories, but Catriona is an exception. Julia London kept the essence of what made Catriona such a great character, but also allowed her to grow into her own person.

Hamlin is perfect as the brooding Duke who would rather hammer nails than deal with nosy neighbors, but has a heart as big as the moon for his darling ward, Eula. His secrets are heartbreaking, and his honor is swoon-worthy.

Between the steamy main couple, and the delightful secondary characters that surely deserve novellas of their own, this book was a joy from start to finish.

I have read 3 other of the book in the Highland Grooms so I decided to read Tempting The Laird.



I have enjoyed this book but I did find it to be a little repetitive and at some point, I was tempted on quitting this book because it just didn't keep my interest.

I love a good Scottish romance. Catronia and Hamlin were great. Loved Uncle Know and Eula. A great read. I highly recommend it. The setting was great. Wanted the ghost of Zelda to show up :-)

I loved Hamlin!! Hamlin was the epitome of the hot broody highlander and Cat is the perfect heroine. I think this might be my favorite from the series. I can't wait to see where the series goes from here.

Publisher's Description:

Mystery and desire cloak the Scottish Highlands

Unruly. Unmarried. Unapologetic. Catriona Mackenzie’s reputation 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. Never one to retreat, Cat boldly goes where no one else has dared for answers.

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.

My Thoughts:

Julia London's books always draw me in. This one did too.
Before this book I had read only book #1 and Book #4 of this series. I don't feel they need to be read in any particular order to be enjoyed. Each one can stand on it's own.

We were introduced to Catriona Mackenzie in one of the other books of this series and I wondered who could possibly tame her. Will Hamlin, the Duke of Montrose be up to the task

Cat is in morning for her beloved Aunt Zelda when the crown decides to take possession of the abbey where she and Zelda had been sheltering unfortunate women and children.
This of course will not do for the outspoken Catriona.

This is a story of some very unsettling times in the highlands situated after the Battle of Culloden.
This time period makes up for most of my favorite Scottish Historical Romance reads, this one included.
This series is not to be missed. This one is one for my keeper shelf.

I gave this read 4.4 of 5.0 stars for storyline and characterization and a sensual rating of 3.75 of 5.0 flames. The background story is what makes this a very readable romance.

I received a complimentary digital ARC of this title by invitation to read and review. This in no way affected my opinion of this book which I read and reviewed voluntarily.

This was a very exciting book by one of favorite authors. MS London has done it again with her Highland Grooms series. I really enjoyed reading anything about highlanders who wear their kilts so well! I felt the characters were fully developed with thoughts and feelings of their own. There is a lot of adventure, funny stuff, mystery and romance.
I liked Cat MacKenzie who was one strong and independent woman that runs a shelter for battered women. She is continuing her beloved aunts work but their facility is going to be forfeited to England since is was used for sheltering rebels after the battle of Culloden. Cat will do everything in her power to keep her abbey of women.
Hamlin Graham, the Duke of Montrose is suppose to have killed his wife. He is subjected to being an outcast by those who loved his wife, Glenna. Only a couple of people know the real reason why his wife disappeared. Hamlin meets the lovely Cat and is intrigued by her bold manner. She is a woman who knows her own mind and doesn't put up with men who try to bend her to their will. She is admired by Hamlin who wants to get to know her better. They have an instant lust moment that turns into a love that will test their beliefs. They hopefully will have a happy ever after.
I appreciate Net Galley for this ARC title in which I gave an honest review.

Oh how I loved this book! Catriona Mackenzie was a strong minded lady with a caring soul, who had a large and loving family. Hamlin Graham, Duke of Montrose was dark, handsome and brooding and didn’t have the experience or love of a large family. I was captured by the connection between these two characters. The young ward, Eula was a delight and Uncle Knox made me smile with some of his observations. This was an enthralling story that had me quite emotional at times. The story was told in such a way that I really felt the heartache. This will be a story to read again. I received a copy and have voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

I totally enjoyed Tempting the Laird by Julia London, part of her Highland Grooms series. This is the “spinster from the Highlands”, Catriona MacKenzie’s story and she has waited a long time for that special someone to fall in love with. While visiting her

Tempting the Laird is a passionate romance and the author swept me away with the storytelling. There was drama, mystery, passion and love, I could not have asked for a better story for one of my favorite characters. The love she has waited for has finally come and it is everything that she has wanted. I enjoyed Catronia and Hamlin; they are similar as well as passionate and it was wonderful seeing them find their happiness. I loved how honest she was with herself and with others. Catronia is a very relatable character, sassy, stubborn, independent and forward. Hamlin was quiet and stoic in comparison, yet together they were very compatible. Hamlin’s young ward definitely benefitted from their friendship.

Ms. London wrote a wonderful story with relatable characters amid some difficult situations. I really enjoy reading this book and had trouble putting it down, turning page after page, wanting more once I turn that last page. I highly recommend this book to other readers.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.

This is the 5th installment in the Highland Grooms series. This one continues with the Mackenzie family and is about Catriona Mackenzie and Hamlin Graham, the Duke of Montrose. This one follows Cat and her quest to save her the refuge she inherited from her aunt Zelda from being taken by the Crown. In her quest to keep the Abbey open she crosses path's with Hamlin, who is suspected of murdering his wife since she disappeared. Hamlin is a man who has secrets and lies that he has kept to himself even knowing what has been said about him. All until he meet's a determined scottish lass who changes everything about his life.

This was another great read in this series. Cat was always an outspoken and determined woman who wanted to live her life to the fullest. She is a strong woman who definitely needed a strong man to match her. And the characters that were introduced in previous books just didn't seem to be a match for her. Enter Uncle Knox (who I loved seeing again by the way!) and his help to not only try to smooth things over with what Cat feels is her calling but he also helps her find her true love! Hamlin is perfect for her! Yes, he can be quiet but he is a strong man who stands behind his beliefs and believes in justice being served for everyone. They are perfect for each other and even when things go wrong, as it's easy for them to do, they still manage to work through it all and become the truly beautiful couple you know they are destined to be. This is a series that pulls you in with all the family connections and I can't wait to see where we go next!

Again Julia London has created wonderful strong characters in the Highland Grooms series and this book is no exception. I loved Catriona her spunk and passion and her jumping in feet first. Hamlin is strong and dark yet his softer side shows in his affection for his ward. Catriona has hard choices, feeling herself pulled between following in her aunt's work and the new feelings she developed for the duke. This story was entertaining, funny and feel good, what a great read!

Tempting the Laird by Julia London is book Five in the Highland Grooms series. This is the story of Catriona 'Cat' Mackenzie and Hamlin Graham, Duke of Montrose. I have read the previous book but feel this can easily be a standalone book.
Cat is mourning the loss of her Aunt Zelda when they get word that the abbey that Zelda housed women and children to help they is being taken by the Crown because Zelda was thought to be a treason for sheltering rebels after the battle of Culloden. Cat's mother speaks of Uncle Knox, the Earl of Norwood might be able to help her. This puts her on a path to meet Hamlin who is rumored to have killed his wife and lives on the fringe of society now. Hamlin is taken back by the outspoken Cat who doesn't seem to hold or believe his reputation against him. Cat always thought that she was happy but meeting Hamlin has awoken a need in her that she didn't know she had.
This was a book that was so hard to put down...you just wanted to know what would happen next and would they get their happy ending.
Loved it!

The outrageous and sometimes crazy Mackenzie family is back with another sibling finding their love in the most unlikely of places and circumstances in this latest masterpiece by an author that continues to astonish readers with her ability to weave a tale of love and adventure. Each of the elder siblings have found the types of love that their mother and father found, but Catriona is firmly on the shelf and, while mourning the loss of her beloved aunt, doesn’t see that changing anytime soon. Ms. London’s skill at bringing her characters to life and making you feel like you are living their story with them never ceases to make her one of my favorite authors and this story kept me enthralled even at moments when the story could have gotten the tiniest bit tedious. I thoroughly enjoyed Cat and Hamlin’s story and was thrilled to see them find a way to bring their lives together and find their happiness, without either of them having to sacrifice their dreams for their future. I am looking forward to whatever comes next in the series and wonder just whose romance might be coming up, but have no doubt that who it is will be an excellent story.
Catriona is firmly on the shelf and sees no problem with it, even though she once wished for other things. She has decided to continue with her Aunt’s mission in life, but with it now in jeopardy, she gives in to her family’s pressure and travels to her uncle’s estate to seek his counsel and assistance with her problems. Hamlin, Duke of Montrose, while not exactly happy, is content to live his dark and lonely existence on his estate with his ward, with no interference from his once friendly and meddling neighbors. Rumored to have killed his wife, Hamlin never imagined that a woman like Catriona would burst into his life and become lodged there like a persistent thorn in his thumb. The deeper Catriona inserts herself into his life the more he begins to appreciate her light and the life she returns to his dreary existence, but just when he begins to accept that he will give up all his life goals in order to have her forever the past comes back to haunt him. Only the true love and compassion of a woman like Catriona could ever allow him to dig himself out of the hole he finds himself in, but the question is will she still want him at the end of his task?
Both Catriona and Hamlin as individual characters were unique and interesting, but the best part about them is the obvious ways in which they complimented each other; they truly were the yin to the other’s yang in almost every way, which made them able to embrace their differences and find a deep and abiding love together despite their differences, or maybe even because of them. Catriona is certainly a spirited woman, well before her time, but she is also compassionate, loving, sweet, adventurous, giving, and strong. Cat won’t ever let any man dictate her life to her, not even her husband, and having a man life Montrose shower her with unlimited attention could have easily gone to her head, but she remained the same woman through their entire courtship. Ultimately her well-roundedness is what truly makes her so lovable not just to Hamlin but to the reader as well. Hamlin, Duke of Montrose, is an enigma himself. While he is obviously the type of man that gives his loyalty, his trust is harder to earn and his love is nearly impossible. After being badly burned by his wife, he could easily have let that turn him into a bastard, but while he is aloof a lot, especially in crowds, it is obvious to this reader that was more of a coping mechanism and a way to keep people from seeing how hurt he was by losing his wife. His willingness to sacrifice for those he loves is apparent immediately and as we see him falling more and more in love and opening himself to Catriona and his ward Eula, we get to see that vulnerability and how it makes him more approachable and lovable as a character.
Overall I loved Catriona and Hamlin’s story, though there were a few little moments of tedium here and there that could have been cut out and still left an awesome story behind. Catriona is a brave and strong heroine, even when she has her moments of doubt and fear, and refuses to ever lose sight of what truly matters in life. Hamlin’s strength might be in other areas and more readily apparent than Catriona’s, but it has its own draw and makes him a leader of men at a time when those were truly needed. I love seeing these two fumbling their way through their love affair and still ultimately finding a way to come together as a family and find a way to move forward with their futures. The passions between Catriona and Hamlin sprang lava hot from the first instance they shared a look, and when it finally spewed forth that love was scorch-the-earth hot, so hot it barely had time to truly heat up the pages before the fire alarms were going off!. I was thrilled with the ending of this story, even if there were times when I wondered where the author was headed with certain plot-lines within the story. If you are looking for a sexy read full of hot Scots and sweet and adventurous highland lasses, you won’t go wrong with Tempting the Laird, though of course I always recommend returning to the original by starting at the beginning of the series. More please Julia!

What a great read! I loved the heroine Catriona. She is fierce and strong-willed, fighting for her cause. She travels to her Uncle Knox’s estate to get his help in saving a beloved Abbey that she runs for wayward women and children. There she meets a brooding Duke, Hamlin. Rumors are flying that he killed his first wife who just disappeared one night. And of course Catriona, being Catriona, has to find out what really did happen. Along the way she and the Duke develop feelings for each other. Can she save her Abbey and find love too? A great story with mystery, romance and characters that are likeable. What could be better?

I had read a few of the other books in this series and couldn’t resist.

I liked Catronia and Hamlin. They’re both similar in ways I didn’t expect and it was delightful seeing them find their happiness. I loved how sassy she was and how stoic he was and how together they were compatible.

Plot wise it was fairly repetitive. Lots of dinners, traveling to and from the dinners, riding to a secret glen, riding back from the secret glen, and so on. I get that a good portion of this story was that Catronia needed to have some time for her own life, but it was boring.

Overall, it was a quick read with more drama than I would have liked, however, the characters really carried the story and kept me reading.

**Huge thanks to HQN Books for providing the arc free of charge**