Once a laird

When his beloved Gisela Matheson died, Kai Douglas Ramsay tried to outrun his grief by traveling the world. From Portugal to Turkey, Kai distracted himself by studying ancient civilizations and doing a bit of discreet espionage work for the British government. But now his grandfather Duncan is dying, and Kai must return to Scotland and assume his responsibilities as the new laird of Thorsay. Fortunately, while he has been away the head schoolmistress, Signy Matheson, Gisela's younger sister, has been working closely with Duncan to keep things running smoothly on the islands, and she is more than willing to teach Kai how to be a good laird. But can Signy also show Kai a future with her that he never could have imagined? In the latest splendidly crafted addition to her Rogues Redeemed series, Putney (Once Dishonored, 2020) brilliantly utilizes all of the key elements her readers crave--engaging characters, an expertly evoked setting, an intriguingly different story line, even a quintessential cat--and the result is another exemplary-in-every-way romance. For more intrepid historical romance heroines, see the Trend Alert, p. xx.

A woman falls for her deceased sister's former fiancé in Putney's dull sixth Rogues Redeemed romance (after Once Dishonored), set in 1800s Scotland. Kai Ramsey returns to Thorsay Island to take over his ailing grandfather's responsibilities as Laird. He hasn't been back since the death of his betrothed, Gisela Matheson, 12 years ago, leaving to travel and mourn before eventually becoming a spy for the crown. Meanwhile, Gisela's younger sister, Signy, stayed behind and became Kai's grandfather's deputy. Signy has always blamed Kai for Gisela's death by miscarriage, but now that they're thrown back together, she realizes Kai wasn't at fault and the two bond over their shared love of her sister, his grandfather, and the islands. Kai is finally ready to settle down after his adventures abroad, but Signy is eager to travel and finally put herself first. Though these conflicting desires keep them from acting on their acknowledged attraction, Signy promises to stick around for at least three months to train Kai in his new role. The pull between Signy and Kai feels weak at best, more like two old friends getting reacquainted than a potential couple. Though the setting and supporting cast are well developed, the lackluster chemistry disappoints. This is one to skip. (Nov.)