This was a delightful read in which we not only get strong and loveable characters, we also get the excitement of lost ancient treasures. I've always wondered what it would be like to discover items from the past, like Kai and Signy do:) I also loved the "Thorsay Islands" as the backdrop for the story.

Kai and Signy are so good together and I really appreciated the fact that there was no undue angst with their relationship, even though Kai use to be engaged to Signy's sister. As Kai tries to settle into being the new Laird, Signy is intent on the freedom to travel and spend more time on herself. Not everything works out as she planned but then, she hadn't planned on falling in love either:)

I received an ARC of this book via NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.

This was a sweet historical romance with some interesting historical and archaeological knowledge of the area where the story is set. I believe this must have been part of a series as some of the secondary characters seem to have their own stories. I enjoyed the story and would recommend it to those that like historical romance.

Mary Jo Putney is a powerhouse in the world of historical fiction. Her Fallen Angel series earned a place on my keeper shelf years ago, as did the first half of her Lost Lords series. Around the last two or three books in that series, however, it's like she ran out of steam and hasn't quite been able to get chugging again. Once a Laird, sixth in the Rogues Redeemed series (which is a spinoff of the Lost Lords series), is no exception.

In this installment, the last of the five rogues who needed redeeming gets his turn. Called back from Constantinople to the Scottish island of Thorsay to take his place as laird, Ramsey is somewhat surprised to find himself happy to be home. Seeing his childhood friend Signy all grown up and goddess warrior princesslike probably has something to do with it, as does the opportunity to explore and discover the ruins and antiquities that abound on the island.

Signy, who had proved indispensable to the previous laird (Ramsey's grandfather) sets out to reteach Ramsey everything about the islands and their inhabitants. Wary at first (Signy more than Ramsey), the two eventually grow close. A few problems here and there introduce some conflict to the plot, but never does their relationship find itself in peril.

This is a cerebral book, driven by calm and matter-of-fact dialogue more than any kind of grand passion. I don't even think I'd describe it as a slow burn so much as a heating pad turned to a pleasantly warm, consistent setting. That said, I wasn't bored by the book. I liked both the characters immensely (Putney has a talent for writing strong and resilient heroines), and I found their story enjoyable to read...once. I also liked the cameos by the other redeemed rogues, though I do wish their stories had been more tightly interwoven.

I received an ARC of this book from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for my honest opinion. Thanks!

Loved this historical romance. This book brings the past to life and incorporates the human elements that are a major part of it!!

Once a Laird by Mary Jo Putney is a great historical fiction romance that was fabulous from beginning to end.

This is the newest installment of the enjoyable Rogues Redeemed series (#6). I have enjoyed the previous books, so I knew I had to read the newest one. Adding to my enjoyment is the location....Scotland!!!!!!

While this is part of a series, it can easily be enjoyed as a stand alone. Past characters are sprinkled in throughout the narrative, so it was a pleasure to see some of those memories reemerge.

1800s Scotland is a wonderful time period for this novel. The locations, landscapes, and daily lives are beautifully described. I loved Signy and Ramsey. The have a complicated and complex history, yet it is clear that they have magnetism and chemistry. Both are likable and interesting characters that have their own passions and well-thought intentions, yet have obstacles to overcome, individually as well as together. I enjoyed seeing these changes and the progression.

An excellent storyline and a wonderful addition to this series.

5/5 stars

Thank you NG and Zebra/Kensington for this wonderful arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.

I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication.

Sorry, I wrote this book so it would make no sense for me to give feedback because of course I liked it!