Ramsey and Signy were childhood friends. He has returned from traveling due to his grandfather’s illness. Ramsey becomes the laird and inherits everything including the debts. How they work themselves out of this predicament and find their HEA is sweet.

A good book and one that I'm sure will make many readers very happy. There wasn't enough emotional tension for me, but that might just be a personal preference. The characters are finely drawn, but could do with a little more depth, for my taste.

I really enjoy books that teach, as well as entertain. This book tells the story of Kai Ramsay, who leaves home after the death of his fiancee' to roam the world in search of ancient ruins. Just before his grandfather passes away he must return home to take his place as laird. When Kai returns he finds his dead fiancee's sister, Signy Matheson, is now beautiful, matured, and indispensible to the laird. Signy helps Kai become reacquainted with the Thorsay islands. In the process, they find ancient ruins right at their own front door. Once a Laird has romance, mystery, suspense, and memorable characters. It is an enjoyable read that will leave you entertained and enlightened.

I would like to thank Netgalley for allowing me to review Once a Laird by Mary Jo Putney.

Final book in the Rogues Redeemed series. Kai Ramsey has spent a number of years wandering the world and investigating ancient ruins. Now he is called home by word that his grandfather, laird of Thorsay (a fictitious groups of islands between the Hebrides and the Shetlands) is dying. Ramsey's childhood friend Signy Matheson, who had been acting as the old laird's assistant, helps him learn his new role. His grandfather wanted him to marry Signy. Ramsey thinks that that is a fine idea. Signy isn't so sure. She longs for the freedom to travel and to pursue her art.

A fairly gentle romance, between two people who are well-matched. There is a suspense plot, but it is rather low-key.

A fine note to end the series on.

I have been (impatiently) waiting for a new offering from Mary Jo Putney for some time. I found her books about a year and have since read every single one. I mean each book of each series. This book is the latest in the Rogues Redeemed series. I was thrilled to see
the latest volume. This is the story of Signy and Ramsay. I just love them. Our heroine lives on Thorsay—a Scottish island with a diverse cultural history. She works for the dying Laird—all the time. She’s alone in the world, since her sis passed away years before. She would love to travel and have more time to dedicate to her artwork, but she is strong, efficient, and dedicated to her job with the old Laird and serving her community. Well, the old Laird is dying, so she sends for his grandson. Ramsay has be traveling the world, and getting over the death of the love of his life (late sis of Signy). He has also been working as a spy… and that’s how he becomes one of the Rogues-to-be-redeemed. He loves all things old and adapts to his surroundings. Now, he has to become the new Laird. Signy is going to help him, then leave to live her life. So, how do they get to love? How does Ramsay get redeemed? Will we see our favorite characters from the series—Rogues and their wives? I could not put this one down! Please don’t miss this series. The author takes us to the Scottish isles for us to experience the culture, scenery, and culture in the setting of this beautiful love story. These 2 feel the pull right away, but it takes some compromise, communication, and opening up for them to get there. I loved it!!!

Once a Laird is a romantic and exciting addition to the Rogues Redeemed series. After twelve years away, Kai Ramsay returns to Scotland’s Thorsay Islands to take on the role of laird. There he reconnects with Signy Matheson, the younger sister of the young woman he was once engaged to. Signy has spent the years dedicated to helping the laird and the people of Thorsay, but she is excited to leave and pursue her dream of painting. However, upon Ramsay’s return, she commits to helping him transition into his new role. As they begin to work together, dangerous weather, financial troubles, and their developing feelings for each other cause unexpected complications. Can Ramsay and Signy work together to solve the problems that weigh over Thorsay Islands? Will they give in to their feelings and take a chance on love?

Signy and Ramsay are great protagonists, both honorable, admirable, and intelligent. They have a strong connection to their home and each other, and their shared losses draw them even closer. Since they haven’t seen each other in a dozen years, both have grown and changed. However, their core beliefs and good intentions remain the same, and as they become reacquainted with each other, their connection deepens. Childhood friends, their relationship is built on admiration and respect, and I love how they slowly grow into something more. They have a long and complex history, which gives way to a deep and beautiful love story. Ramsay and Signy are alike in their desires, morals, and more, and they fit together well. And I love Ramsay’s feelings toward Signy! He is so impressed by her, and he values her strength, intellect, and sincerity. He often compares her to a goddess and seems quite awe-inspired by her, which is lovely.

Ramsay is not thrilled about returning home to take on the role of laird. His dreams and ambitions do not include remaining on the islands forever. However, much like Signy, he puts his own wants on hold to do what is right by his family and people. Ramsay has an adventurous and sometimes dangerous life that takes him all over the world, and he is unhappy with the idea of being stagnant. Signy, in turn., longs for the freedom to travel and experience the world. She wants to explore and go on grand adventures while honing her craft as an artist. I love that both characters learn that their dreams and their duties don’t have to be separate things. They can be responsible and dedicated to Thorsay while still achieving their goals.

Thorsay is a beautiful backdrop for the story. Putney creates such a vivid setting, which is shown as Ramsay visits all the places he hasn’t seen in years. Terrible storms have changed his childhood home and continue to wreak havoc and endanger the lives of its inhabitants. The harsh weather also reveals the profound and fascinating history of the islands, much to the delight of Ramsay. I love the descriptions of the island, the mix of Viking and Scottish history, and the wonderful people who live there. The imagery adds so much to the story and makes it easy to see why Ramsay and Signy are so attached to the land.

I also need to mention two other fabulous characters in the novel – Fiona and Odin! Fiona, Signy’s loyal and intelligent dog, is a life-saver in more ways than one. Odin, the one-eyed cat who belonged to Ramsay’s grandfather, is equally unique and entertaining. Both add so much to the story, have dynamic personalities, and act as strong symbols in the story. These, as well as other symbols, enhance the character development and strong messages of forgiveness, love, and starting over throughout the novel.

This is a slow-building, slow-burning, historical romance and wonderful ending to the Rogues Redeemed series, though the introduction of some new and intriguing characters opens up the potential for further books or a spin-off series. Like the other books in the series, this one can easily be read as a standalone. Thanks so much to NetGalley, Mary Jo Putney, and Kensington Books for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.

(Will add links closer to up. date)

Thank you to NetGalley for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

I enjoyed Once a Laird. It was a sweet love story set in a fictional Scottish Orkney-esque island. This set it apart from the usual Scottish-laird story, as it had many Viking influences woven into the island's history. Once a Laird is the 6th book in the Rogues Redeemed series. I had not read any of the previous books, but never fear reader, they were not necessary to enjoy this tale.

I found our Laird, Kai Ramsay, to be a suitably dashing gentleman whose love of antiquities made him interesting. I hesitate calling him the hero, because I believe the real hero of this story is the heroine, Signy Matheson. Signy, Viking Goddess extraordinaire, is always ready to save the day (and Kai...).

I hate to call this book low on plot, because there is some plot, but the love story is really what shines here. The final act gave me "It's a Wonderful Life" vibes, but that's one of my favorite films... so it appealed to me.

Once a Laird's Kai & Signy share a sweet romance amidst the wild weather of fictional Thorsay Island. a place I hope Mary Jo Putney decides to explore more of. Overall, I'd recommend this book if you're looking for a charming low-stakes love story that will transport you to another land and another time for a brief while and leave you with a smile on your face.

This story was good, but the pace was a little slow. I found the temperament of the main characters to be at odds, but somehow they live happily ever after. I didn't really understand the attempt on the laird's life either. Especially when the conflict was paying the debt.....

Other than that, a very tender love story.

Title: Once a Laird
Author: Mary Jo Putney
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
Steam: 🔥🔥🔥/5 (Warm on the Smut-O-Meter)
Series: Rogues Redeemed #6
Tropes: Historical-Regency-Scotland, Returning Home, Childhood friends to Lovers, MC-Scholar/Academic, Romantic Suspense
Content Warning: Death of loved one, Past death of sibling (childbirth), Financial instability, Abuse by a parent

The setting was especially intriguing for me. Scotland has been on my travel list since watching Shetland, a Scottish crime drama set on the country's northernmost archipelago. Putney sets Once a Laird on Thorsay, a fictional island, in between Orkney and Shetland. I loved getting to dive deeper into the unique culture of the Scottish archipelagos — a mix of English, Celtic, and Norse traditions. If you love romances in unique settings this is definitely worth checking out.

Signy Matheson has been Duncan Ramsay’s faithful helper for most of her adult life. Now that Duncan’s health is failing she writes to his grandson, Kai, to return home and take up the duties of Thorsay’s Laird. Kai has been travelling the world working as spy, diplomat, and historian since his heart was broken when his fiancee, Signy’s sister, died. While Kai returns home in time to say goodbye to Duncan, Signy is the one to teach him how to be a Laird.

On Thorsay, Kai and Signy have an instant attraction. While the pair grew up together, the many decades they’ve been separated has made them different people. I liked seeing them learn about each other as adults. Obviously Kai’s adventures are more interesting on the surface, but the hard work and care Signy has put into Thorsay is truly remarkable.

Mary Jo Putney is a prolific historical romance writer. I’ve read some books from her Lost Lords and Fallen Angels series, but this was my first from the Rogues Redeemed. Once a Laird works as a standalone, I really enjoyed it. But I feel like the ending might have hit more emotional cues if I’d read some of the related books.

Thank you to Kensington Books and NetGalley for providing a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.

This was a typical well written historical romance. Lots of drama, heated exchanges and passions running wild - normally not my cuppa but Mary Jo Putney always writes so well that I make an exception for her and just enjoy the ride. Anyone who loves historical romance set in Scotland (Outlander fans, I mean you) - I think you will enjoy this.

4.5 out of 5 stars. This book was a great addition to the Rogues Redeemed series. It has a slow burn romance that is perfect for this story. Kai returns to the islands of Scotland to take up the mantle of laird. He reconnects with Signy. The two have more in common than they thought. I loved the descriptions of the island and the people. I could picture the sea and wild storms. It rekindled my desire to visit Scotland again. Not to mention the interesting undercurrent of exploring ancient ruins and finding treasure. Really enjoyed the novel.

This story is part of the Rogues Redeemed series. Ramsay has wandered the world since he left his childhood home on Thorsay. Now his grandfather is near death and he must return to take on the responsibilities as laird. His first love died when he was at university and he can't imagine the island without her but he has to return when he receives a letter from Signy, her sister. He returns to find that Signy blames him for her sister's death and a host of other challenges that must be overcome. The island has suffered furious storms that created hardship for many of the residents and his grandfather has gone into debt to help the people of Thorsay. Ramsay and Signy travel the island together reacquainting him with the people and his duties after his grandfather dies. There is romance and adversity and a Rogues Redeemed reunion.

This story was unique and shared a lot of information about the Orkney Island which I always find interesting. I enjoyed the way the island life called to the two MC as I imagine it is a life that is not for everyone. The relationship between Kai & Signy just seemed a little fast for me, I would have liked to see a little more angst. Unfortunately this story does not have an epilogue which is one of my pet peeves with stories…just a personal preference, I like seeing a glimpse of the future and how the MCs are “doing”. There was quite a bit of inner monologue and a lot of repetitive phrasing in relation to Thorsay. It didn’t seem natural to me and unfortunately almost caused me to stop the story. Overall, 3 stars.

I was a little surprised how the first piece of conflict was in the first couple of chapters. Signy exploded at Ramsay, and then the air was cleared between them pretty quickly. The hurt Signy had towards him seemed to run deep, so I thought it was pretty unrealistic how quickly they made up and everything was fine. After that, it was hard to get attached to the characters, and then in turn, their relationship. I’m always down for a good highland romance, but their story didn’t draw me in unfortunately. Ramsay kept kissing her without any indication that she wants it or permission. There was less romance than forced proximity. Ramsay could also be considered manipulative. Signy repeats many times that she’s not ready to marry and that she wants to travel since she never had the opportunity to (being female and employed full-time). Instead of honoring her wishes (despite vocally saying he would), Ramsay continues to pursue her, hires the art teacher to come to the island, and marries Signy. I’m sorry, but none of that was romantic.
Additionally, there were so many mini conflicts throughout the story, that it was difficult to gage how serious they were and how they would shape the characters. I didn’t see character development or progression as much as I would have liked. I’ve read other books by this author and have always enjoyed them, so overall this book was a bit of a letdown. Ramsay’s interest in archeology was an interesting side story, and the author went into depth about his passion for history, but this still fell short for me. The ending was ok, but very much predictable.

I received an arc from NetGalley and this is my honest opinion.
This was not an all time favorite for me. I am not sure if it was the time period or something else that was off for me.
I do enjoy this author though and will try a different book or genre.

*Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.*

And we have a winner!

I am a sucker for slowburn.
I love Mary Jo Putney's books and I always get lost in her stories.

Last book in the series ,Scottish hero,slowburn,amazing writing. What else could you ask for .
I've been reading MJP for years and her writing never ceases to amaze me
5 stars from me

Once a Laird
Signy and Ramsay
Mary Jo Putney
Another beautiful tale from Mary Jo Putney.Ramsay must return home to the northern Scottish islands of Thorsay to take up the job of laird at his grandfather’s passing. He does so reluctantly but with a sense of ingrained duty. Signy is the little sister of his first love and she has become the right hand woman of the previous laird. She agrees to assist him for three months before she heads off to see the world. She opens his eyes to affairs of Thorsay’s people at the same time he falls in love with her and she him. They have treasure to find and obstacles to overcome but their bond has grown.
I would recommend this book to my patrons.

This book is the sixth in the Rogues Redeemed series.

Kai Ramsey returns to Scotland after twelve years abroad to reunite his late fiancée’s sister Signy Matheson.

Romance is slow to my taste, though, the book, like all of Mary Jo Putney’s, is very well written and delightful to read its descriptions and the cameos of the rest of the rogues.

This conclusion to the Rogues Redeemed series is thoroughly enjoyable with a unique setting and a very appealing heroine and hero. It is time for Kai Ramsay to return to the Thorsay Islands in the far north of Scotland to take his place as laird, and he is surprised to find childhood friend Signy Matheson has grown into a strong, compassionate, creative, and yes, beautiful woman. Greedy relatives and nature in the form of a destructive storm will test them, but love and past friendships will overcome all. Recommended.

Exciting, slow-burn, Regency Romance set in Scotland

This is the sixth and final book in the Rogues Redeemed, Regency-romance series.

Kai Douglas Ramsay, who goes by “Ramsay,” has been wandering the world the past 12 years since the young age of 20, fulfilling his greatest desire, to explore the sites of ancient civilizations. Most recently he has settled in Constantinople for the past five years, working as a mysterious spy for the British Embassy, with the purposely vague title, “Under Secretary for Special Projects.” In that position, he has assisted, directly or indirectly, the protagonists of the five other books in this series in significant, often life-saving ways.

Several years ago, Ramsay was held captive in a cellar in Portugal with four other men. They banded together to escape a dawn execution as spies and, in the process, formed a lasting connection. The five of them vowed to utilize their new chance at life to atone for any past, major mistakes, and coined the name for themselves, “Rogues Redeemed.” The men vowed to meet up again back in England after the conclusion of the Napoleonic wars, which have recently ended. They agreed to leave messages for each other at Hatchard’s Bookshop in London to facilitate that reunion. Ramsay plans to connect with any of them who have survived the war when he passes through London on his way north to Thorsay, an island group that is part of Scotland.

Ramsay’s grandfather has been Laird of Thorsay for the past 40 years and is currently dying. He has summoned Ramsay home at long last, because he will need to assume the inherited position of laird. Ramsay is next in line because his father, along with his mother, died when Ramsay was a young child, causing him to be raised instead by his grandfather and his long deceased grandmother.

Signy Matheson is a 27-year-old, dynamic, charismatic woman who is single by choice. In addition to being a talented, self-trained watercolor-landscape artist, she has served as right-hand assistant to the old laird for many years. Her numerous duties on behalf of Thorsay have included: training female teachers for village schools, keeping track of and supporting local magistrates, and informing the old laird of any pressing needs of the poorer residents of the island kingdom, especially during recent years plagued by natural disaster and famine. Signy has a wonderful canine companion, Fiona, a smallish, sheepherding dog who is loyal, intelligent and affectionate. Signy is also a whiz with horses, and has trained the old laird’s magnificent stallion, Thor, to come when she whistles. Signy is basically an amazing Jill of All Trades.

Just before he dies, Ramsay’s grandfather strongly urges Ramsay to marry Signy, and Ramsay is definitely willing, because a woman like her would be an invaluable helpmeet in his new, demanding duties—and she’s a gorgeous woman he is very attracted to, as well. But Signy is burned out on her unpaid position as the person everyone in Thorsay feels free to make demands of, 24/7. When Ramsay broaches the idea of marriage, she informs him that she has no desire to marry. Her burning desire is to go to London and apprentice herself to a talented, female artist, and to travel the world as Ramsay himself did, starting with Paris, and continuing on from there. She proudly informs him he’s had his chance to travel, and it’s now her turn. But she is willing to commit to giving Ramsay three months of her time to show him the ropes in his new mission as laird.

Signy and Ramsay are admirable, highly sympathetic protagonists who are outstandingly suited to each other as equally strong, forceful leaders. I had already been intrigued by Ramsay in previous books in this series, and had been greatly anticipating experiencing him as the hero of his own book. I was not disappointed at all in my further fascinating acquaintance with him. He is an honorable, straightforward, highly intelligent, and quite sexy hero.

As is typical within the romance genre, this story is told from the alternating, third-person point of view of these two protagonists, which allows the reader to get to know both of their personalities and motivations very well.

I loved the fact that Ramsay and Signy are on stage together at least 90% of this book, and the growth of their relationship is a steady, slow-burn romance. I am delighted to report that there are no historically nonsensical, X-rated sexual escapades in this book, which is (thank goodness!) not Ms. Putney’s style.

The animals in this book are a delightful addition to the story. In addition to Fiona and Thor, there is a terrific, one-eyed cat named Odin who steals every scene he is in. These lovable animals aren’t just there for filler. Each one has an important role to play in the novel.

I found it a captivating change to read a historical romance set in a unique, island locale. Thorsay is vividly presented, and this beautiful, unspoiled, natural setting is crucial to every major plot event.

The end of this book offers an exceptionally satisfying HEA both to this book itself, as well as a grand finale for the series as a whole.

All in all, though this book stands on its own, with no cliffhanger—as do all the other books in this series—as a big fan of MJP, I personally have had the pleasure of reading all of the books in this series, and the link between them of recurring characters is well done and extremely enjoyable to experience.

Finally, I have to mention that this novel has a marvelous cover! Instead of a classic clinch, it offers a lovely portrait of Signy.

I rate this book as follows:

Heroine: 5 stars
Hero: 5 stars
Subcharacters: 5 stars
Setting: 5 stars
Romance Plot: 5 stars
Action-Adventure Plot: 5 stars
Writing: 5 stars
Overall: 5 stars

I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving a review.