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Under Loch and Key
A woman discovers that not all monsters are her enemy—the opposite, in fact—in this new paranormal romance by Lana Ferguson, author of The Fake Mate.
Keyanna “Key” MacKay is used to secrets. Raised by a single father who never divulged his past, it’s only after his death that she finds herself thrust into the world he’d always refused to speak of. With just a childhood bedtime story about a monster that saved her father’s life and the name of her estranged grandmother to go off of, Key has no idea what she’ll find in Scotland. But repeating her father’s mistakes and being rescued by a gorgeous, angry Scotsman—who thinks she’s an idiot—is definitely the last thing she expects.
Lachlan Greer has his own secrets to keep, especially from the bonnie lass he pulls to safety from the slippery shore—a lass with captivating eyes and the last name he’s been taught not to trust. He’s looking for answers as well, and Key’s presence on the grounds they both now occupy presents a real problem. It’s even more troublesome when he gets a front row seat to the lukewarm welcome Key receives from her family; the strange powers she begins to develop; and the fierce determination she brings to every obstacle in her path. Things he shouldn’t care about, and someone he definitely doesn’t find wildly attractive.
When their secrets collide, it becomes clear that Lachlan could hold the answers Keyanna is after—and that she might also be the key to uncovering his. Up against time, mystery, and a centuries old curse, they’ll quickly discover that magic might not only be in fairy tales, and that love can be a real loch-mess.
Keyanna “Key” MacKay is used to secrets. Raised by a single father who never divulged his past, it’s only after his death that she finds herself thrust into the world he’d always refused to speak of. With just a childhood bedtime story about a monster that saved her father’s life and the name of her estranged grandmother to go off of, Key has no idea what she’ll find in Scotland. But repeating her father’s mistakes and being rescued by a gorgeous, angry Scotsman—who thinks she’s an idiot—is definitely the last thing she expects.
Lachlan Greer has his own secrets to keep, especially from the bonnie lass he pulls to safety from the slippery shore—a lass with captivating eyes and the last name he’s been taught not to trust. He’s looking for answers as well, and Key’s presence on the grounds they both now occupy presents a real problem. It’s even more troublesome when he gets a front row seat to the lukewarm welcome Key receives from her family; the strange powers she begins to develop; and the fierce determination she brings to every obstacle in her path. Things he shouldn’t care about, and someone he definitely doesn’t find wildly attractive.
When their secrets collide, it becomes clear that Lachlan could hold the answers Keyanna is after—and that she might also be the key to uncovering his. Up against time, mystery, and a centuries old curse, they’ll quickly discover that magic might not only be in fairy tales, and that love can be a real loch-mess.
392 pages, Paperback
First published December 3, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 6,473 reviews
January 23, 2025
can’t say i was expecting that plot💀
December 12, 2024
A Loch Ness Monster Romance that was not as fun as I’d hoped.
It was cool premise, but kind of a slog, tbh. This had an interesting beginning, but it really dragged in the middle. It took me almost a month to read this because I completely lost interest. I picked it back up because I did want to know how the mystery would turn out. The ending was pretty good and worth sticking around for but this seriously needs a good edit of the centre to tighten up the story and keep the momentum going.
The lore was decent, the premise interesting and the characters likeable. I just think the author spent way too much time in their heads and thoughts. Even in the big fight scene at the end they are both musing about what their opponent is thinking and why things are happening instead of describing the action sequence.
I think I’m going to put this author aside as her style of writing just does not engage me even though her story concepts are solid.
Thank you to NetGalley and Berkeley for the complimentary advanced copy. My thoughts are my own.
*********
Got the arc!
I’m going to stop requesting these for a long while, now I have too many arcs from Berkley. What a banner day!
It was cool premise, but kind of a slog, tbh. This had an interesting beginning, but it really dragged in the middle. It took me almost a month to read this because I completely lost interest. I picked it back up because I did want to know how the mystery would turn out. The ending was pretty good and worth sticking around for but this seriously needs a good edit of the centre to tighten up the story and keep the momentum going.
The lore was decent, the premise interesting and the characters likeable. I just think the author spent way too much time in their heads and thoughts. Even in the big fight scene at the end they are both musing about what their opponent is thinking and why things are happening instead of describing the action sequence.
I think I’m going to put this author aside as her style of writing just does not engage me even though her story concepts are solid.
Thank you to NetGalley and Berkeley for the complimentary advanced copy. My thoughts are my own.
*********
Got the arc!
I’m going to stop requesting these for a long while, now I have too many arcs from Berkley. What a banner day!
December 17, 2024
Lana Ferguson knows how to craft the perfect romantasy, combining my favorite tropes—enemies to lovers and grumpy meets sunshine—with the Loch Ness monster urban legend and Scottish mythology, creating a brooding hero with a delicate heart hiding behind a literal monster facade.
This story is definitely hot, smutty entertainment, but it’s also heartwarming, dealing with family, ancestral burdens, forgiveness, and embracing the future by correcting past mistakes.
Keyanna "Key" MacKay, having recently lost her father, honors his last wish to have his ashes spread in the lake where he claimed he was once saved by a monster, a story he told her as a bedtime tale. She flies to his hometown in Scotland, where he hadn’t set foot in years, in order to connect with his estranged parents and learn more about his past.
As an orphan, Key also hopes to meet her grandparents and mend the broken ties between them by sharing stories of her late father. But her attempt to spread his ashes turns into a dangerous mission when she slips on the rocks and is rescued by a gorgeous yet grumpy man who calls her an idiot at first sight.
This tall, muscled, bearded, and charismatic—though incredibly rude—man is Lachlan Greer. He helps Key’s grandparents with farm chores, often working shirtless, and lives in the guest cottage next to their house, making it impossible for her to ignore him.
While her grandfather is happy to reconnect, her grandmother still harbors old grudges, making it challenging for Key to break the ice with her. Her cousin Brodie, meanwhile, gives off mixed vibes—friendly, but seemingly holding something back.
Lachlan also harbors a big secret, known only to the bartender twin siblings at the pub, who are his longtime friends. He’s determined to keep Key at arm’s length, giving off hostile vibes for reasons that frustrate her, causing her emotions to swing between attraction and pure hate.
One night, as she prepares to leave town, Key gives the lake one last chance to fulfill her father's final wish. That’s when she witnesses Lachlan’s big secret firsthand. Instead of using it as leverage, she learns why Lachlan is searching for more information about the legend that binds their families and the curse that has ruined his life.
Key also discovers that she’s developing supernatural powers—like opening windows without touching them, stopping rain, and creating fire from her hands. Realizing she can help Lachlan break the family curse, she must also confront the risk of losing her heart to him. As their attraction grows and they spend more time together, they face new challenges on their path to each other.
Overall: This is my favorite romantasy from Lana Ferguson so far, and it deserves five Scottish, creature-filled, magical stars!
Many thanks to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing Group for sharing this addictive romantasy’s digital review copy with me in exchange for my honest thoughts.
Follow me on medium.com to read my articles about books, movies, streaming series, astrology:
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This story is definitely hot, smutty entertainment, but it’s also heartwarming, dealing with family, ancestral burdens, forgiveness, and embracing the future by correcting past mistakes.
Keyanna "Key" MacKay, having recently lost her father, honors his last wish to have his ashes spread in the lake where he claimed he was once saved by a monster, a story he told her as a bedtime tale. She flies to his hometown in Scotland, where he hadn’t set foot in years, in order to connect with his estranged parents and learn more about his past.
As an orphan, Key also hopes to meet her grandparents and mend the broken ties between them by sharing stories of her late father. But her attempt to spread his ashes turns into a dangerous mission when she slips on the rocks and is rescued by a gorgeous yet grumpy man who calls her an idiot at first sight.
This tall, muscled, bearded, and charismatic—though incredibly rude—man is Lachlan Greer. He helps Key’s grandparents with farm chores, often working shirtless, and lives in the guest cottage next to their house, making it impossible for her to ignore him.
While her grandfather is happy to reconnect, her grandmother still harbors old grudges, making it challenging for Key to break the ice with her. Her cousin Brodie, meanwhile, gives off mixed vibes—friendly, but seemingly holding something back.
Lachlan also harbors a big secret, known only to the bartender twin siblings at the pub, who are his longtime friends. He’s determined to keep Key at arm’s length, giving off hostile vibes for reasons that frustrate her, causing her emotions to swing between attraction and pure hate.
One night, as she prepares to leave town, Key gives the lake one last chance to fulfill her father's final wish. That’s when she witnesses Lachlan’s big secret firsthand. Instead of using it as leverage, she learns why Lachlan is searching for more information about the legend that binds their families and the curse that has ruined his life.
Key also discovers that she’s developing supernatural powers—like opening windows without touching them, stopping rain, and creating fire from her hands. Realizing she can help Lachlan break the family curse, she must also confront the risk of losing her heart to him. As their attraction grows and they spend more time together, they face new challenges on their path to each other.
Overall: This is my favorite romantasy from Lana Ferguson so far, and it deserves five Scottish, creature-filled, magical stars!
Many thanks to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing Group for sharing this addictive romantasy’s digital review copy with me in exchange for my honest thoughts.
Follow me on medium.com to read my articles about books, movies, streaming series, astrology:
medium blog
August 16, 2024
okay guys. monster romance can be very hot lemme tell you that right now 🙂↕️
miss key, on her mission to solve the lochness curse/get closer to her deceased dad, she falls in love with the monster: funnnn! but was it actually??
this had a few tropes i simply don’t care for (solving a puzzle/riddle/curse etc). i absolutely knew this going into it but i hate reading about solving things 😭😭😭 i would give up in two seconds flat so there was that…entire aspect…the whole book.
the characters and romance *should’ve* made up for it, but these feel like lana’s weakest characters so far?? i wasn’t attached whatsoever. even from the first page the vibes felt different and i didn’t know how to reconcile with that the whole time reading
overall i still recommend lana’s other books, i think they showcase a lot more than this one!!!! i love her to death and one miss won’t deter me 🤞🏼
miss key, on her mission to solve the lochness curse/get closer to her deceased dad, she falls in love with the monster: funnnn! but was it actually??
this had a few tropes i simply don’t care for (solving a puzzle/riddle/curse etc). i absolutely knew this going into it but i hate reading about solving things 😭😭😭 i would give up in two seconds flat so there was that…entire aspect…the whole book.
the characters and romance *should’ve* made up for it, but these feel like lana’s weakest characters so far?? i wasn’t attached whatsoever. even from the first page the vibes felt different and i didn’t know how to reconcile with that the whole time reading
overall i still recommend lana’s other books, i think they showcase a lot more than this one!!!! i love her to death and one miss won’t deter me 🤞🏼
December 4, 2024
WHY DID NO ONE TELL ME MY REVIEW SAID KICKING AND GIGGLING MY FEET IM CRYINGGGGGG (keeping it there for shits and giggles atp)
~~~
this is without a doubt my favorite release of Lanas so far OH MY GOD 😭 i would give it an infinite amount of stars if i was able to
its funny, silly, emotional, adventurous, theres mystery and magic and curse solving, its SO HOT and most importantly SO MUCH FUN.
one of my favorite things about lana is that she can just write literally anything and it’s phenomenal and fun. i desperately and selfishly need her to focus solely on paranormal/fantasy/cryptid romances for a hot minute before going back to contemporary romance bc this is just her fucking specialty for real 😍
i think this is a wonderful book for the girlies that have been on the fence about jumping into monster romances, there is some very delicious monster smut without it being full on monster smut making it a perfect dip your toes in to see if you think this is something you may be interested in book!!! (its *chefs kiss* i promise)
i was kicking and giggling my feet the entire time i read this, the banter between lach and key was just in truth ridiculous but so funny at the same 😂 its very i cant stand you to oh my god im obsessed with you and i just devoured it.
im honestly just at a loss for words at how much fun i had reading this and how much i loved it. im already looking forward to the second i can get my hands one the audio and listen to them be brought to life 🤭
~~~
this is without a doubt my favorite release of Lanas so far OH MY GOD 😭 i would give it an infinite amount of stars if i was able to
its funny, silly, emotional, adventurous, theres mystery and magic and curse solving, its SO HOT and most importantly SO MUCH FUN.
one of my favorite things about lana is that she can just write literally anything and it’s phenomenal and fun. i desperately and selfishly need her to focus solely on paranormal/fantasy/cryptid romances for a hot minute before going back to contemporary romance bc this is just her fucking specialty for real 😍
i think this is a wonderful book for the girlies that have been on the fence about jumping into monster romances, there is some very delicious monster smut without it being full on monster smut making it a perfect dip your toes in to see if you think this is something you may be interested in book!!! (its *chefs kiss* i promise)
i was kicking and giggling my feet the entire time i read this, the banter between lach and key was just in truth ridiculous but so funny at the same 😂 its very i cant stand you to oh my god im obsessed with you and i just devoured it.
im honestly just at a loss for words at how much fun i had reading this and how much i loved it. im already looking forward to the second i can get my hands one the audio and listen to them be brought to life 🤭
November 25, 2024
alright.. so, the story started off okay at first but the more it went on the less i cared. both main characters Key and Lachlan were very bland with absolutely no chemistry, it seriously felt like this was written by a whole different author. the sex scenes were so painfully cringy and i kept getting secondhand embarrassment every time Lachlan opened his mouth cause yes, i understand that it’s a monster romance but i did not want to see him refer to himself as one or use the word “beast” in a sexual setting ever. the plot is not much of a mystery since it’s obvious from the first chapter what’s going on and the characters are just too naive and clueless to notice i guess. I couldn’t deal with the excessive Scottish phrases that were used every other page either, too much “wee this and wee that”.. just stop already cause I GET IT! HE HAS AN ACCENT, WOW. I’m so disappointed that im rating this low cause i’ve mostly enjoyed Lana’s other books but this just wasn’t for me.
⇢ many thanks to NetGalley, the author and Berkley Publishing Group for the arc, all opinions are my own.
⇢ many thanks to NetGalley, the author and Berkley Publishing Group for the arc, all opinions are my own.
November 26, 2024
“𝑰 𝒕𝒐𝒍𝒅 𝒚𝒐𝒖,” 𝒉𝒆 𝒔𝒂𝒚𝒔, 𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒅𝒆𝒆𝒑 𝒃𝒓𝒐𝒈𝒖𝒆 𝒉𝒆𝒂𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒓 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒗𝒐𝒊𝒄𝒆 𝒔𝒐𝒖𝒏𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒈𝒓𝒂𝒗𝒆𝒍𝒍𝒚. “𝑰 𝒅𝒐𝒏’𝒕 𝒍𝒐𝒔𝒆 𝒄𝒐𝒏𝒕𝒓𝒐𝒍.” 𝑯𝒊𝒔 𝒍𝒊𝒑𝒔 𝒔𝒌𝒊𝒓𝒕 𝒂𝒍𝒐𝒏𝒈 𝒎𝒚 𝒕𝒉𝒓𝒐𝒂𝒕 𝒖𝒏𝒕𝒊𝒍 𝒉𝒆 𝒄𝒂𝒏 𝒌𝒊𝒔𝒔 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒔𝒆𝒏𝒔𝒊𝒕𝒊𝒗𝒆 𝒔𝒑𝒐𝒕 𝒃𝒆𝒏𝒆𝒂𝒕𝒉 𝒎𝒚 𝒆𝒂𝒓. “𝑩𝒖𝒕 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒎𝒂𝒌𝒆 𝒎𝒆 𝒇𝒖𝒄𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒘𝒂𝒏𝒕 𝒕𝒐.”
Lana, honey, we need to talk because how DARE YOU make me attracted to the Loch Ness Monster?! 🐉✨ Yes, I found the scales attractive, and don’t even get me started on the tongue 🔥🔥
This book was cute and entertaining! I loved how the author took her time to build the world, develop the characters, and create a perfect introduction to monster romance 💚 For someone new to the genre (like me), this was the ideal balance of contemporary romance and monster intrigue.
Lachlan and Keyanna relationship was so fun to follow because they absolutely do not like each other at first. She travels to Scotland to spread her dad’s ashes at the Loch and meets the grumpiest farmer ever, Lachlan 🥴 As she tries to learn more about her family and her dad’s stories, she constantly butts heads with Lachlan... until she discovers his true identity: he’s the monster 😱
TA TATAAAAN !!
Let me just sayyyyy THE BANTEEEERRRR!!! LIKE PLSS LANA NEVER DISAPPOINTS!
“𝑫𝒊𝒅 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒍𝒍𝒚 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒌 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒄𝒐𝒖𝒍𝒅 𝒌𝒊𝒔𝒔 𝒎𝒆 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒏 𝒋𝒖𝒔𝒕 𝒏𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝒅𝒐 𝒊𝒕 𝒂𝒈𝒂𝒊𝒏?” “𝑰 𝒅𝒊𝒅𝒏’𝒕 𝒔𝒂𝒚 𝒊𝒕 𝒘𝒐𝒖𝒍𝒅 𝒃𝒆 𝒆𝒂𝒔𝒚,” 𝑰 𝒉𝒖𝒇𝒇. “𝑰 𝒋𝒖𝒔𝒕 𝒔𝒂𝒊𝒅 𝒊𝒕 𝒘𝒂𝒔 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒓𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈.”
The dislike eventually turns into attraction, love, and everything in between, giving us the best trajectory to a Happily Ever After. 🥹💕 I also loved how both characters, from their own perspectives, are mourning their parents (especially their dads). It adds so much depth, allowing us to understand the root of so many of their previous feelings and actions.
Another thing I absolutely loved about this book was the hint of mystery elements stitched into their love story 💗 Both characters are on a mission throughout the book, and when all their secrets come to light, it just elevates everything to another level. SO. GOOD. 🔥
This WENT DEEP, and I absolutely loved it. 🫶✨
I recommend this book to anyone looking for a "light" monster romance and use this book as a way to decide if the monster romance genre is for you. TRUST ME you’re going to like it 🫣💚
Tropes
🗝️ monster romance
🗝️ found family
🗝️ enemies to lovers
🗝️ only one barn
🗝️ magic & mystery
Thank you Netgalley & Berkley once again for giving me this eARC in exchange for my honest review
⋆. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁˖ . ݁. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁˖ . ݁⋆.⋆. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁˖ . ݁. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁˖ . ݁⋆.
𝗽𝗿𝗲-𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗱｡ꪆৎ ˚ LANA HAS NEVER DISAPPOINTED ME AND I AM SO EXCITED TO BUDDY READ THIS !!!!!!!
(sorry for the caps but this girl is excited)
Lana, honey, we need to talk because how DARE YOU make me attracted to the Loch Ness Monster?! 🐉✨ Yes, I found the scales attractive, and don’t even get me started on the tongue 🔥🔥
This book was cute and entertaining! I loved how the author took her time to build the world, develop the characters, and create a perfect introduction to monster romance 💚 For someone new to the genre (like me), this was the ideal balance of contemporary romance and monster intrigue.
Lachlan and Keyanna relationship was so fun to follow because they absolutely do not like each other at first. She travels to Scotland to spread her dad’s ashes at the Loch and meets the grumpiest farmer ever, Lachlan 🥴 As she tries to learn more about her family and her dad’s stories, she constantly butts heads with Lachlan... until she discovers his true identity: he’s the monster 😱
TA TATAAAAN !!
Let me just sayyyyy THE BANTEEEERRRR!!! LIKE PLSS LANA NEVER DISAPPOINTS!
“𝑫𝒊𝒅 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒍𝒍𝒚 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒌 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒄𝒐𝒖𝒍𝒅 𝒌𝒊𝒔𝒔 𝒎𝒆 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒏 𝒋𝒖𝒔𝒕 𝒏𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝒅𝒐 𝒊𝒕 𝒂𝒈𝒂𝒊𝒏?” “𝑰 𝒅𝒊𝒅𝒏’𝒕 𝒔𝒂𝒚 𝒊𝒕 𝒘𝒐𝒖𝒍𝒅 𝒃𝒆 𝒆𝒂𝒔𝒚,” 𝑰 𝒉𝒖𝒇𝒇. “𝑰 𝒋𝒖𝒔𝒕 𝒔𝒂𝒊𝒅 𝒊𝒕 𝒘𝒂𝒔 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒓𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈.”
The dislike eventually turns into attraction, love, and everything in between, giving us the best trajectory to a Happily Ever After. 🥹💕 I also loved how both characters, from their own perspectives, are mourning their parents (especially their dads). It adds so much depth, allowing us to understand the root of so many of their previous feelings and actions.
Another thing I absolutely loved about this book was the hint of mystery elements stitched into their love story 💗 Both characters are on a mission throughout the book, and when all their secrets come to light, it just elevates everything to another level. SO. GOOD. 🔥
This WENT DEEP, and I absolutely loved it. 🫶✨
I recommend this book to anyone looking for a "light" monster romance and use this book as a way to decide if the monster romance genre is for you. TRUST ME you’re going to like it 🫣💚
Tropes
🗝️ monster romance
🗝️ found family
🗝️ enemies to lovers
🗝️ only one barn
🗝️ magic & mystery
Thank you Netgalley & Berkley once again for giving me this eARC in exchange for my honest review
⋆. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁˖ . ݁. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁˖ . ݁⋆.⋆. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁˖ . ݁. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁˖ . ݁⋆.
𝗽𝗿𝗲-𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗱｡ꪆৎ ˚ LANA HAS NEVER DISAPPOINTED ME AND I AM SO EXCITED TO BUDDY READ THIS !!!!!!!
(sorry for the caps but this girl is excited)
January 6, 2025
✩ 3 stars ✩
What to Expect:
➼ Enemies-to-Lovers
➼ Family Curse
➼ Magic & Mystery
➼ 7 Year Age Gap
➼ Long Lost Family
➼ Small Town in Scotland
➼ Monster Romance
➼ Grumpy/Sunshine
➼ Close Proximity
➼ Duet Narration
➼ Dual First Person POV
This started out decent but it ended up being a pretty mediocre read unfortunately. The characters were just kind of bland and their connection seemed to be purely based on lust. I felt like she learned about who he was a little too early on in the story and I didn’t enjoy the veiled way he thought about himself prior to her learning who he was. It seemed like the author wrote the book like the reader wouldn’t already know he was the Loch Ness Monster, but she made it his reflection right there on the cover. 😅 No one thinks that cryptically so it seemed like a weird choice to write it that way.
I will say that I thought the explanation for why he was the Loch Ness monster was pretty clever. If it was a curse on his family it would explain why there weren’t more of them. It would also make sense that they could potentially stay hidden since they mostly transform at night and have human intelligence. I did also enjoy that the happy ending extended to more than just the two MC’s.
As a side note, I definitely expected this to be more of a paranormal romance but it’s definitely a monster romance. Expect a side of claws and forked tongue with your romance. 😆 I personally could have done without but to each their own.
✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼
Pre-read: I’ve been really looking forward to this one, but it seems the people have been unimpressed. 😬
What to Expect:
➼ Enemies-to-Lovers
➼ Family Curse
➼ Magic & Mystery
➼ 7 Year Age Gap
➼ Long Lost Family
➼ Small Town in Scotland
➼ Monster Romance
➼ Grumpy/Sunshine
➼ Close Proximity
➼ Duet Narration
➼ Dual First Person POV
This started out decent but it ended up being a pretty mediocre read unfortunately. The characters were just kind of bland and their connection seemed to be purely based on lust. I felt like she learned about who he was a little too early on in the story and I didn’t enjoy the veiled way he thought about himself prior to her learning who he was. It seemed like the author wrote the book like the reader wouldn’t already know he was the Loch Ness Monster, but she made it his reflection right there on the cover. 😅 No one thinks that cryptically so it seemed like a weird choice to write it that way.
I will say that I thought the explanation for why he was the Loch Ness monster was pretty clever. If it was a curse on his family it would explain why there weren’t more of them. It would also make sense that they could potentially stay hidden since they mostly transform at night and have human intelligence. I did also enjoy that the happy ending extended to more than just the two MC’s.
As a side note, I definitely expected this to be more of a paranormal romance but it’s definitely a monster romance. Expect a side of claws and forked tongue with your romance. 😆 I personally could have done without but to each their own.
✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼
Pre-read: I’ve been really looking forward to this one, but it seems the people have been unimpressed. 😬
January 12, 2026
Another entertaining read from Lana! I'm quickly learning that I'll read whatever she writes (although I still need to go back and read The Nanny 😅)
But her books are very engaging and easy to read and the spice sure doesn't hurt either 🔥
Lachlan was a great MMC. Moody and dickish at first but he grew to be such a teddy bear. I was pretty okay with Key as the FMC, although I wish she had a little more spine when it came to her grandmother in the beginning.
And I feel like Lana tried to not have a third act breakup in this one, which I guess there technically wasn't, but it still was as ridiculously dramatic and over the top as these they tend to be. Key finds out information toward the end and just implodes and walks away, not leaving him necessarily, just needing time. But I'm still looking for a book where this scenario comes up and the FMC doesn't lose her shit. I get being blindsided, angry, emotional, the whole thing, but none of these FMC's ever take the time to ask why something happened or didn't happen, and I really wish it would.
I also called the ending a mile away, so a little disappointed that wasn't hidden a little more as that causes some feelings of frustration when you can clearly see what's going on but the FMC has absolutely no idea 😖
But overall this was a really entertaining read and would recommend for any romance readers.
Thank you NetGalley and Berkley Publishing for this arc in exchange for an honest review!
But her books are very engaging and easy to read and the spice sure doesn't hurt either 🔥
Lachlan was a great MMC. Moody and dickish at first but he grew to be such a teddy bear. I was pretty okay with Key as the FMC, although I wish she had a little more spine when it came to her grandmother in the beginning.
And I feel like Lana tried to not have a third act breakup in this one, which I guess there technically wasn't, but it still was as ridiculously dramatic and over the top as these they tend to be. Key finds out information toward the end and just implodes and walks away, not leaving him necessarily, just needing time. But I'm still looking for a book where this scenario comes up and the FMC doesn't lose her shit. I get being blindsided, angry, emotional, the whole thing, but none of these FMC's ever take the time to ask why something happened or didn't happen, and I really wish it would.
I also called the ending a mile away, so a little disappointed that wasn't hidden a little more as that causes some feelings of frustration when you can clearly see what's going on but the FMC has absolutely no idea 😖
But overall this was a really entertaining read and would recommend for any romance readers.
Thank you NetGalley and Berkley Publishing for this arc in exchange for an honest review!
December 4, 2024
Under Loch and Key is a small town romance following a woman determined to find closure for herself and her late father as she returns to his hometown, only to find that her dad's recount of the Loch Ness monster may not just be a bedtime story but instead a happening of magic, curses, and adventure. This romance was so unique and charming, I loved the Scottish setting and tone, not to mention all the fun banter between Lachlan and Key! The hate-to-love trope is one of my favorites, and they played it out so well together, their chemistry was unmatched. The plot was very engaging and I loved the lore and history behind the story and magic. I think this would be a perfect beginner monster romance for anyone wanting something a little light and fun with the added bonus of some monster smut!
Read if you like:
💦Grumpy x Sunshine💦
💦Forced Proximity💦
💦Dual POV💦
💦Ancient Curses💦
💦Scottish Lore and Magic💦
💦Monster Steam💦
💦Enemies to Lovers💦
~Many thanks to Berkley Romance for an ARC of this book in return for an honest review.
Read if you like:
💦Grumpy x Sunshine💦
💦Forced Proximity💦
💦Dual POV💦
💦Ancient Curses💦
💦Scottish Lore and Magic💦
💦Monster Steam💦
💦Enemies to Lovers💦
~Many thanks to Berkley Romance for an ARC of this book in return for an honest review.
July 14, 2025
Keyanna MacKay was raised in the United States by her single-Scottish father. Her Dad was tight-lipped and didn't share a lot about his past, family, or where he came from.
One of his final wishes before passing was for Key to bring him home, to the country he left decades before. Thus, with this wish weighing heavy on her heart, Key decides she must make it happen, no matter the cost.
Her only real info is the name of the area in Scotland he is from, as well as her estranged Grandmother's name; a Grandmother she's never met.
Even though she's scared and it may blow up in her face, Key is still determined to find out where her Dad came from and return him there. Maybe it will help fill the void in her heart he's left behind. Unmoored by his passing, this could be exactly what Key needs to help her move forward.
What she doesn't expect is the run-in she has on her very first day with the handsome, Lachlan Greer, who stops Key from tumbling down the slippery rocks of a loch-side cliff.
Lachlan has answers of his own he's searching for, and Key may be just that, the 'key' to finding them. That'll only be possible though if the two can stop fighting long enough to work together.
The longer the pair spend together, the more buried secrets come to light and that's when the real magic happens.
I've read a lot of cryptid-focused stories in my life, but certainly nothing like this. I'm in all new territory here and I had such a fun time taking it all in.
While I can recognize that this isn't a perfect book, and for more experienced Romance Readers, maybe it's not great, IDK. For me though, I gotta give props to Lana Ferguson for creating likable characters, a unique plot, as well as hard-hitting, emotional moments.
I loved both of the MCs, particularly Key and the journey she was on to find a sense of place after the passing of her father. That hit me hard and I respected the hell out of the risks she took in making that trip. It was a big deal.
I was also surprised and pleased by the direction the romance went in. I'm not sure if all of this author's works are a bit fantastical like this one, but I'm definitely interested in picking up more. This was just so cute.
Admittedly, the steamy bits weren't 100% to my tastes, but I was willing to overlook some moments that made me cringe due to all the moments that made me swoon. The banter between Key and Lachlan made it worth it.
I also liked that the author included a bit of a mystery that the two have to work together to solve. I thought that was a nice touch, instead of focusing solely on romance.
Additionally, I adored the setting and the side characters. The audiobook featured dual narration that was a perfect match for how I pictured Key and Lachlan. I absolutely recommend that format.
Overall, I found this to be a pleasant surprise. It's much more than just a gorgeous cover.
Thank you to the publisher, Berkley, for providing me with a copy to read and review. I'm excited to pick up more from Lana Ferguson!
One of his final wishes before passing was for Key to bring him home, to the country he left decades before. Thus, with this wish weighing heavy on her heart, Key decides she must make it happen, no matter the cost.
Her only real info is the name of the area in Scotland he is from, as well as her estranged Grandmother's name; a Grandmother she's never met.
Even though she's scared and it may blow up in her face, Key is still determined to find out where her Dad came from and return him there. Maybe it will help fill the void in her heart he's left behind. Unmoored by his passing, this could be exactly what Key needs to help her move forward.
What she doesn't expect is the run-in she has on her very first day with the handsome, Lachlan Greer, who stops Key from tumbling down the slippery rocks of a loch-side cliff.
Lachlan has answers of his own he's searching for, and Key may be just that, the 'key' to finding them. That'll only be possible though if the two can stop fighting long enough to work together.
The longer the pair spend together, the more buried secrets come to light and that's when the real magic happens.
I've read a lot of cryptid-focused stories in my life, but certainly nothing like this. I'm in all new territory here and I had such a fun time taking it all in.
While I can recognize that this isn't a perfect book, and for more experienced Romance Readers, maybe it's not great, IDK. For me though, I gotta give props to Lana Ferguson for creating likable characters, a unique plot, as well as hard-hitting, emotional moments.
I loved both of the MCs, particularly Key and the journey she was on to find a sense of place after the passing of her father. That hit me hard and I respected the hell out of the risks she took in making that trip. It was a big deal.
I was also surprised and pleased by the direction the romance went in. I'm not sure if all of this author's works are a bit fantastical like this one, but I'm definitely interested in picking up more. This was just so cute.
Admittedly, the steamy bits weren't 100% to my tastes, but I was willing to overlook some moments that made me cringe due to all the moments that made me swoon. The banter between Key and Lachlan made it worth it.
I also liked that the author included a bit of a mystery that the two have to work together to solve. I thought that was a nice touch, instead of focusing solely on romance.
Additionally, I adored the setting and the side characters. The audiobook featured dual narration that was a perfect match for how I pictured Key and Lachlan. I absolutely recommend that format.
Overall, I found this to be a pleasant surprise. It's much more than just a gorgeous cover.
Thank you to the publisher, Berkley, for providing me with a copy to read and review. I'm excited to pick up more from Lana Ferguson!
December 28, 2024
"𝘐 𝘵𝘳𝘶𝘴𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘮𝘺 𝘭𝘪𝘧𝘦" 𝘐 𝘵𝘦𝘭𝘭 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘵𝘭𝘺, 𝘮𝘦𝘢𝘯𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘥. "𝘛𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦'𝘴 𝘯𝘰 𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘰𝘯 𝘢𝘭𝘪𝘷𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘐 𝘵𝘳𝘶𝘴𝘵 𝘮𝘰𝘳𝘦."
ᯓᡣ𐭩
3.5/5 ⭐️ first book from this author and her writing was bomb! this is a fun paranormal rom-com read! only problem is why is this 400 pages long. damn.
⋆౨ৎ˚⟡˖ ࣪ 𝙬𝙧𝙞𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙨𝙩𝙮𝙡𝙚 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙥𝙡𝙤𝙩
- first paranormal romance and it did not disappoint! i love the chemistry between key and lachlan, however i feel like the author tried incorporating several tropes that ended up a bit bumpy for me (i.e. enemies to lovers, grumpy meets sunshine) the spicy scenes didn't bother me at all as i thought they were perfectly written and did not take over the whole storyline which is great! i don't want too much sex scenes that cover up the entire storyline 😁 also love the banter because it made me laugh lol
- i would've gave this 4/5 if not for the very slow pacing on uncovering family secrets and decoding the cryptic messages that revolves around the "legend"
- the author also wrote all the characters very well and it was quite easy for me to follow because they had their own distinct characteristics that makes them different among the rest.
---------
𝙥𝙧𝙚 𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙙
ok so im not really into monster romance BUT this seemed interesting.... and i realized i would start babel probs after new years eve instead 🫣
ᯓᡣ𐭩
3.5/5 ⭐️ first book from this author and her writing was bomb! this is a fun paranormal rom-com read! only problem is why is this 400 pages long. damn.
⋆౨ৎ˚⟡˖ ࣪ 𝙬𝙧𝙞𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙨𝙩𝙮𝙡𝙚 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙥𝙡𝙤𝙩
- first paranormal romance and it did not disappoint! i love the chemistry between key and lachlan, however i feel like the author tried incorporating several tropes that ended up a bit bumpy for me (i.e. enemies to lovers, grumpy meets sunshine) the spicy scenes didn't bother me at all as i thought they were perfectly written and did not take over the whole storyline which is great! i don't want too much sex scenes that cover up the entire storyline 😁 also love the banter because it made me laugh lol
- i would've gave this 4/5 if not for the very slow pacing on uncovering family secrets and decoding the cryptic messages that revolves around the "legend"
- the author also wrote all the characters very well and it was quite easy for me to follow because they had their own distinct characteristics that makes them different among the rest.
---------
𝙥𝙧𝙚 𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙙
ok so im not really into monster romance BUT this seemed interesting.... and i realized i would start babel probs after new years eve instead 🫣
December 27, 2024
3 Stars! 🌟 Okay, so Under Loch and Key by Lana Ferguson was my first dive into the monster romance world, and… whew, it was a rollercoaster. I was drawn in by the Loch Ness vibes, Scottish magic, and a cursed love story, but somewhere along the way, it just didn’t fully click for me.
✨ Tropes! ✨
✧ Grumpy sunshine 💖
✧ Enemies to lovers 💘
✧ Family secrets unraveling 🧬
✧ Cursed MMC 🖤
✧ Forced proximity 💗
✧ Magical inheritance 🪄
✧ Strong-willed heroine 💪
✧ Sassy banter 💬
✧ Saving each other (literally and emotionally) 💕
✧ Small-town vibes 🏡
Let’s start with the good stuff: the world-building was chef’s kiss. Magical, atmospheric, and dripping in Loch Ness lore—it had me vibing with the Scottish countryside. 🏞️ And Lachlan? A broody, cursed Scotsman who’s stuck between “I hate you” and “I adore you.” Dreamy on paper, but the execution didn’t land as hard as I wanted.
Now for the spice. Did I skim a lot of those scenes? Yep. 🙈 They felt… too much? Like, they overshadowed the actual plot, which honestly had way more depth and potential. And don’t get me started on the pacing—the middle felt like trudging through a swamp. Sloooooow. By the time we got to the satisfying ending, I was like, “Finally!”
Oh, and the inner monologues during action scenes? A total buzzkill. I just wanted them to get on with it already.
This is my second book by Lana Ferguson, and I’m starting to think her style might not be my thing. 😕 BUT (and it’s a big but), the sneak peek at her next book, Overruled (Dani & Ezra’s story)? I’m intrigued. I feel like that one might deliver where this one didn’t. 🤞
CW:
- Death of a parent
- Family estrangement
- Violence
- Explicit scenes
Final thoughts: If you’re into monster romances with steamy tension, magical curses, and small-town drama, give it a go. For me, it wasn’t bad—it just didn’t fully deliver. Fingers crossed Overruled is my redemption arc! 🤷♀️
✨ Tropes! ✨
✧ Grumpy sunshine 💖
✧ Enemies to lovers 💘
✧ Family secrets unraveling 🧬
✧ Cursed MMC 🖤
✧ Forced proximity 💗
✧ Magical inheritance 🪄
✧ Strong-willed heroine 💪
✧ Sassy banter 💬
✧ Saving each other (literally and emotionally) 💕
✧ Small-town vibes 🏡
Let’s start with the good stuff: the world-building was chef’s kiss. Magical, atmospheric, and dripping in Loch Ness lore—it had me vibing with the Scottish countryside. 🏞️ And Lachlan? A broody, cursed Scotsman who’s stuck between “I hate you” and “I adore you.” Dreamy on paper, but the execution didn’t land as hard as I wanted.
Now for the spice. Did I skim a lot of those scenes? Yep. 🙈 They felt… too much? Like, they overshadowed the actual plot, which honestly had way more depth and potential. And don’t get me started on the pacing—the middle felt like trudging through a swamp. Sloooooow. By the time we got to the satisfying ending, I was like, “Finally!”
Oh, and the inner monologues during action scenes? A total buzzkill. I just wanted them to get on with it already.
This is my second book by Lana Ferguson, and I’m starting to think her style might not be my thing. 😕 BUT (and it’s a big but), the sneak peek at her next book, Overruled (Dani & Ezra’s story)? I’m intrigued. I feel like that one might deliver where this one didn’t. 🤞
CW:
- Death of a parent
- Family estrangement
- Violence
- Explicit scenes
Final thoughts: If you’re into monster romances with steamy tension, magical curses, and small-town drama, give it a go. For me, it wasn’t bad—it just didn’t fully deliver. Fingers crossed Overruled is my redemption arc! 🤷♀️
October 14, 2024
The Loch Ness monster but make him HOT 🔥 Alright, I'm back with my findings!!
Rating: 4 ⭐️
For anyone who loved The Fake Mate, you're gonna love this too.
Under Loch and Key follows Key, an American woman, who moves to Scotland after her father's death in order to reconnect with her estranged family. There she meets Lachlan who is her family's asshole-ish farmhand, among.... other things 😏 She is quick to uncover secrets, an ancient prophecy, a curse, and magic powers. All while falling in love, of course.
In most cases, I hate when an MC is advertised as an "asshole," because... like, just be polite please. You don't even know this person. But luckily, Lachlan's brand of asshole is more banter and flirting, which is how it should be in my book. I just want to have a good time and not think about the male ego.
Under Loch and Key is lighthearted, has some good banter, and managed to keep my attention really well. And in terms of spice... I will say that ridged penises do make an appearance. Is it ever explained? No. But it is a fun addition nonetheless 😂
Overall, this book was a good time and I will definitely look out for more Lana Ferguson books in the future!
Rating: 4 ⭐️
For anyone who loved The Fake Mate, you're gonna love this too.
Under Loch and Key follows Key, an American woman, who moves to Scotland after her father's death in order to reconnect with her estranged family. There she meets Lachlan who is her family's asshole-ish farmhand, among.... other things 😏 She is quick to uncover secrets, an ancient prophecy, a curse, and magic powers. All while falling in love, of course.
In most cases, I hate when an MC is advertised as an "asshole," because... like, just be polite please. You don't even know this person. But luckily, Lachlan's brand of asshole is more banter and flirting, which is how it should be in my book. I just want to have a good time and not think about the male ego.
Under Loch and Key is lighthearted, has some good banter, and managed to keep my attention really well. And in terms of spice... I will say that ridged penises do make an appearance. Is it ever explained? No. But it is a fun addition nonetheless 😂
Overall, this book was a good time and I will definitely look out for more Lana Ferguson books in the future!
Thank you to Netgalley and Berkley Publishing Group for for providing me early access to Under Loch and Key in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
January 19, 2025
so the Loch Ness monster is a handsome farmhand with a curse & a big D ✨🏴 smutty urban romantasy full of Scottish myths & lost secrets!
Keyanna lost everything in the US and decides to retrace her roots in Scotland. She finds her grandparents settled right next to Loch Ness…and living with a tall, dark and handsome farmhand Lachlan that turns out to be THE Loch Ness monster 🦎✨ One curse & several miscommunications later the two realize their fated attraction and unravel family secrets.
🦎 family feuds, curses & magical lineages
✨ PARTIAL monster transformation *for her pleasure*
🦎 men in kilts ft. Highland Games
✨ when he says “she is actually a sensual, but somehow also adorable daydream of a woman who I couldn’t have conjured up in my wildest fantasies.”
🦎 found family
The book did itself a disservice by starting off super slow! I found the second half of the book perfectly smutty & the characters deeply moving in their pursuit of (found) family. I did see the plot twists coming a mile away but still had a fun time reading the story!
I really enjoyed all the smuttiness 🌶️ Lachlan being absolutely obsessed with Key & barely controlling the monster within made me blush! Both of them really ended up growing on me at the end.
paranormal romance
enemies to lovers (lite)
grumpy x sunshine ☀️
man obsessed!
forced proximity
introverted fmc
magic is REAL!
Scottish mythology
found family
HEA
Keyanna lost everything in the US and decides to retrace her roots in Scotland. She finds her grandparents settled right next to Loch Ness…and living with a tall, dark and handsome farmhand Lachlan that turns out to be THE Loch Ness monster 🦎✨ One curse & several miscommunications later the two realize their fated attraction and unravel family secrets.
🦎 family feuds, curses & magical lineages
✨ PARTIAL monster transformation *for her pleasure*
🦎 men in kilts ft. Highland Games
✨ when he says “she is actually a sensual, but somehow also adorable daydream of a woman who I couldn’t have conjured up in my wildest fantasies.”
🦎 found family
The book did itself a disservice by starting off super slow! I found the second half of the book perfectly smutty & the characters deeply moving in their pursuit of (found) family. I did see the plot twists coming a mile away but still had a fun time reading the story!
I really enjoyed all the smuttiness 🌶️ Lachlan being absolutely obsessed with Key & barely controlling the monster within made me blush! Both of them really ended up growing on me at the end.
paranormal romance
enemies to lovers (lite)
grumpy x sunshine ☀️
man obsessed!
forced proximity
introverted fmc
magic is REAL!
Scottish mythology
found family
HEA
July 20, 2025
✨ Favorite Quote:
“But Nessie has always been a girl!”
“I did try to hint at the falsity of that, you remember,” I remind her. “Outside of Loch Land.”
“Yeah, but I just thought you were being a dick.”
“No, I was trying to tell you that Nessie has a dick.”
💭 Final Thoughts:
A hilarious paranormal rom-com set in Scotland.
Keyanna (our FMC) stole my heart. The way her grandma treated her at first was gut-wrenching. I know it was resolved at the end, but I still haven’t forgiven her! Key was just looking for family and connection. 💔💔💔
Lachlan (MMC) and Key had solid chemistry, and I liked them together but the miscommunication trope dragged things down for me.
This is my second book by Lana Ferguson, and while I enjoyed it, The Fake Mate is still my fave.
🎧 Narration Style: Dual
⭐️ Audio Score: 4.5 stars
🔁 Re-listen Worthy: Yes! Both narrators were excellent! Would definitely re-listen for the banter alone.
“But Nessie has always been a girl!”
“I did try to hint at the falsity of that, you remember,” I remind her. “Outside of Loch Land.”
“Yeah, but I just thought you were being a dick.”
“No, I was trying to tell you that Nessie has a dick.”
💭 Final Thoughts:
A hilarious paranormal rom-com set in Scotland.
Keyanna (our FMC) stole my heart. The way her grandma treated her at first was gut-wrenching. I know it was resolved at the end, but I still haven’t forgiven her! Key was just looking for family and connection. 💔💔💔
Lachlan (MMC) and Key had solid chemistry, and I liked them together but the miscommunication trope dragged things down for me.
This is my second book by Lana Ferguson, and while I enjoyed it, The Fake Mate is still my fave.
🎧 Narration Style: Dual
⭐️ Audio Score: 4.5 stars
🔁 Re-listen Worthy: Yes! Both narrators were excellent! Would definitely re-listen for the banter alone.
December 3, 2024
2 stars
thank you berkley and netgalley for the arc
not sure where the banter is some other reviews are talking about but this was plain old boring. ferguson's dialogue feels like nails on a chalkboard; it's so horribly unnatural majority of the time. also i get it's a monster romance but i seriously could not with lachlan being like "im your monster" 💀💀 please shut up and get back in ur swamp
the spice for me was really icky and i had to skip over it im not gonna lie. and that's the whole reason we were here right? the story outside of that felt juvenile at best. i mean the answer was literally right there... and the stuff with brodie was just so dumb. this felt like a children's book with spice.
thank you berkley and netgalley for the arc
not sure where the banter is some other reviews are talking about but this was plain old boring. ferguson's dialogue feels like nails on a chalkboard; it's so horribly unnatural majority of the time. also i get it's a monster romance but i seriously could not with lachlan being like "im your monster" 💀💀 please shut up and get back in ur swamp
the spice for me was really icky and i had to skip over it im not gonna lie. and that's the whole reason we were here right? the story outside of that felt juvenile at best. i mean the answer was literally right there... and the stuff with brodie was just so dumb. this felt like a children's book with spice.
February 6, 2025
3.75⭐️
If you can get through the first half, you’ll be rewarded in the second
If you can get through the first half, you’ll be rewarded in the second
November 6, 2024
MONSTER (S)MASH
This book was so cute 🥹 It reminded me a little of one of my favorite romcoms - Leap Year. (Although now that I think about it, I think that was in Ireland?)
A grumpy Scotsman
American girl searching for her family
A mysterious curse
Just overall a really fun time
Tropes:
Contemporary paranormal romcom
Grumpy x Sunshine
Forced Proximity
Dislike to Love
Dual POV
Spicyyy
4.5 ⭐️
This book was so cute 🥹 It reminded me a little of one of my favorite romcoms - Leap Year. (Although now that I think about it, I think that was in Ireland?)
A grumpy Scotsman
American girl searching for her family
A mysterious curse
Just overall a really fun time
Tropes:
Contemporary paranormal romcom
Grumpy x Sunshine
Forced Proximity
Dislike to Love
Dual POV
Spicyyy
4.5 ⭐️
May 31, 2025
•Dual POV
•Grump vs sunshine
•Enemies to lovers
•Forced proximity
•Age gap
•Monster sex
•Witty banter
3.5 ⭐️
•Grump vs sunshine
•Enemies to lovers
•Forced proximity
•Age gap
•Monster sex
•Witty banter
3.5 ⭐️
December 10, 2024
3.5 ⭐
*+:｡.｡𝓦𝓮 𝓭𝓸 𝓷𝓸𝓽 𝓵𝓾𝓼𝓽 𝓪𝓯𝓽𝓮𝓻 𝓪𝓼𝓼𝓱𝓸𝓵𝓮𝓼, 𝓭𝓪𝓶𝓷𝓲𝓽｡.｡:+*
It was so spicy for my taste like I skipped 5 chapters....5 CHAPTERS OF SPICE? WHY? And that one character they deceived everyonebut me 🤬 But the narration is chef's kiss 💋 if you ever wanted to read the book go for the audiobook
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚𝕮𝖍𝖆𝖗𝖊𝖈𝖙𝖊𝖗𝖘˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
𝐿𝑎𝑐ℎ𝑙𝑎𝑛 (𝑀𝐿): he' so loving so supportive but he alsoas every man out there thinks that he knows better than the poor, weak FML
𝐾𝑒𝑦𝑎𝑛𝑛𝑎 (𝐹𝐿): she's so funny and her internal monologue is hilarious. She's so kind and pretty adventurous too
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚𝕮𝖑𝖔𝖘𝖊𝖉 𝕯𝖔𝖔𝖗 𝕸𝖔𝖉𝖎𝖋𝖎𝖈𝖆𝖙𝖎𝖔𝖓𝖘˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
𝕊𝕜𝕚𝕡 𝕔𝕙𝕒𝕡𝕥𝕖𝕣𝕤: 𝟙𝟠, 𝟙𝟡, 𝟚𝟜, 𝟚𝟞, 𝟚𝟡
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚𝕿𝖗𝖔𝖕𝖊𝖘˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
🌸 𝚂𝚖𝚊𝚕𝚕 𝚃𝚘𝚠𝚗 𝚁𝚘𝚖𝚊𝚗𝚌𝚎
🌸 𝙲𝚞𝚛𝚜𝚎𝚍 𝙼𝙼𝙲
🌸 𝚁𝚎𝚏𝚘𝚛𝚖𝚎𝚍 𝙵𝚊𝚖𝚒𝚕𝚢
🌸 𝙼𝚊𝚐𝚒𝚌
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚𝕱𝖆𝖛 𝕼𝖚𝖔𝖙𝖊𝖘˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚𝕻𝖗𝖊-𝖗𝖊𝖆𝖉˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
I'm so excited for this. It's my first monster romance and I'm intimidated 💀
*+:｡.｡𝓦𝓮 𝓭𝓸 𝓷𝓸𝓽 𝓵𝓾𝓼𝓽 𝓪𝓯𝓽𝓮𝓻 𝓪𝓼𝓼𝓱𝓸𝓵𝓮𝓼, 𝓭𝓪𝓶𝓷𝓲𝓽｡.｡:+*
It was so spicy for my taste like I skipped 5 chapters....5 CHAPTERS OF SPICE? WHY? And that one character they deceived everyone
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚𝕮𝖍𝖆𝖗𝖊𝖈𝖙𝖊𝖗𝖘˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
𝐿𝑎𝑐ℎ𝑙𝑎𝑛 (𝑀𝐿): he' so loving so supportive but he also
𝐾𝑒𝑦𝑎𝑛𝑛𝑎 (𝐹𝐿): she's so funny and her internal monologue is hilarious. She's so kind and pretty adventurous too
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚𝕮𝖑𝖔𝖘𝖊𝖉 𝕯𝖔𝖔𝖗 𝕸𝖔𝖉𝖎𝖋𝖎𝖈𝖆𝖙𝖎𝖔𝖓𝖘˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
𝕊𝕜𝕚𝕡 𝕔𝕙𝕒𝕡𝕥𝕖𝕣𝕤: 𝟙𝟠, 𝟙𝟡, 𝟚𝟜, 𝟚𝟞, 𝟚𝟡
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚𝕿𝖗𝖔𝖕𝖊𝖘˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
🌸 𝚂𝚖𝚊𝚕𝚕 𝚃𝚘𝚠𝚗 𝚁𝚘𝚖𝚊𝚗𝚌𝚎
🌸 𝙲𝚞𝚛𝚜𝚎𝚍 𝙼𝙼𝙲
🌸 𝚁𝚎𝚏𝚘𝚛𝚖𝚎𝚍 𝙵𝚊𝚖𝚒𝚕𝚢
🌸 𝙼𝚊𝚐𝚒𝚌
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚𝕱𝖆𝖛 𝕼𝖚𝖔𝖙𝖊𝖘˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
Sometimes, I can still hear his voice, soft and comforting, as he lulled me to sleep. Still feel his fingers on my brow, pushing my curls away from my face as my eyes drifted shut.
Because I am terrified of moving forward with my life without him. Maybe I thought that by coming here, I could find some piece of him left behind, something I could cling to so it felt a little less like he was gone forever. Something that won’t make me feel so utterly alone in this world.
There’s a wide- eyed innocence to Key that I might normally find annoying, but paired with what I know of her— her determination, her loyalty, her strength even in suffering— it actually leaves me a wee bit in awe of her.
but with how jaded this world has left me… seeing Key endure so much in her young life and still have this fresh outlook, this hunger for life… it does something strange to me.
I remind myself that it wouldn’t be polite to strangle him in public.
“There now,” I say. “Was that so hard?”“Like pulling teeth,”
That, I think, is a love most people search for—and yet hers came right to my door.
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚𝕻𝖗𝖊-𝖗𝖊𝖆𝖉˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
I'm so excited for this. It's my first monster romance and I'm intimidated 💀
December 13, 2024
I thought about giving this a two or a three star, but I don't think there's a single thing I liked.
This was boring, over-long, I never cared about the characters, and I felt like I'd read it before (primarily the Scottish setting and the curse and the ancestors of the main characters and vague magical realism and searching for ancestral heirlooms and breaking the curse in a romance book from Do Your Worst).
The Writing:
This has one of my biggest writing pet peeves and it's used literally over a dozen times, I would be shocked if it was any less than two dozen. The characters never know how or why, but they just know things. All the time. Somehow, they just know. And I hate that.
Write. A. Better. Reason.
I'll have the ebook in a few days and will do a more thorough search then. 12/12/24 Update:
-_-
Since finishing this, I also realized that I hate her particular writing quirk of "somehow." She uses it roughly 33 times or about once per 12 pages. And in all save for about 3ish instances, it's a completely useless filler word. It lends nothing to the sentence and I found it grated on me more and more as the book went on.
(Compared to a recent mystery novel I read that is only slightly longer than this and only uses "somehow" 10 times, and it totally makes sense in the context of laying out and organizing clues while still having gaps in how point A and point B connect)
Overall:
But yeah, I only liked The Fake Mate by this author. The problem is I really liked it. So I've been continuing to try her stuff. But I think she gets one more shot from me and then I give up and we part ways.
I'm sure other people will like this book, apart from my pet peeve it's not poorly written. It just gives me 0 interest or intrigue or investment. They're flat, regular degular people, they have spicy monster smut where he loses control and gets partial monster anatomy shifts, and the plot is really boring and vague.
This was boring, over-long, I never cared about the characters, and I felt like I'd read it before (primarily the Scottish setting and the curse and the ancestors of the main characters and vague magical realism and searching for ancestral heirlooms and breaking the curse in a romance book from Do Your Worst).
The Writing:
This has one of my biggest writing pet peeves and it's used literally over a dozen times, I would be shocked if it was any less than two dozen. The characters never know how or why, but they just know things. All the time. Somehow, they just know. And I hate that.
Write. A. Better. Reason.
I'll have the ebook in a few days and will do a more thorough search then. 12/12/24 Update:
"Something inside me just knows he wouldn’t allow himself to hurt me. I don’t know how I know, but I do."
"And all at once—I just know."
"...but when we finally break apart—I just know. I can feel it."
-_-
Since finishing this, I also realized that I hate her particular writing quirk of "somehow." She uses it roughly 33 times or about once per 12 pages. And in all save for about 3ish instances, it's a completely useless filler word. It lends nothing to the sentence and I found it grated on me more and more as the book went on.
(Compared to a recent mystery novel I read that is only slightly longer than this and only uses "somehow" 10 times, and it totally makes sense in the context of laying out and organizing clues while still having gaps in how point A and point B connect)
Overall:
But yeah, I only liked The Fake Mate by this author. The problem is I really liked it. So I've been continuing to try her stuff. But I think she gets one more shot from me and then I give up and we part ways.
I'm sure other people will like this book, apart from my pet peeve it's not poorly written. It just gives me 0 interest or intrigue or investment. They're flat, regular degular people, they have spicy monster smut where he loses control and gets partial monster anatomy shifts, and the plot is really boring and vague.
December 13, 2024
3/5 ⭐️ 4/5 🌶️
dare i say it? this book might have had too much sex in it…🙊it almost took away from the central plot, which i was enjoying because when was the last time you read a story about the Loch Ness monster who also shifts into a human? But alas. The emotional connection between Key and Lachlan was quite flimsy aside from their physical chemistry.
dare i say it? this book might have had too much sex in it…🙊it almost took away from the central plot, which i was enjoying because when was the last time you read a story about the Loch Ness monster who also shifts into a human? But alas. The emotional connection between Key and Lachlan was quite flimsy aside from their physical chemistry.
March 25, 2025
2.5 ⭐️ I'll give any romance book set in Scotland a chance
WHAT TO EXPECT:
✨ contemporary paranormal romance
✨ Scotland setting
✨ she’s visiting her estranged family
✨ he’s the farmhand
✨ grumpy scot x sunshine American
✨ dislike to love
✨ 2.5/5 🌶️
✨ nicknames: Nessie and princess
✨ monsters and magic
✨ secrets and curse
✨ family drama
✨ hurt / comfort
✨ mystery
✨ HEA
✨ dual POV
✨ TW: death of loved one (past), grief, child abandonment
My Thoughts:
Audiobook rating: 3.5⭐️ Sexy Scottish accent. ✔️
Story rating: 2.5⭐️ Interesting story. Not the best execution.
Okay, so here's the truth. I know I do not enjoy Lana Ferguson's writing. I wasn't going to pick this up, but the fact it was set in Scotland and about the Loch Ness monster piqued my interest. So when the audiobook came up on Libby, I decided to give it a go.
While it's honestly not a bad story, it's just not for me. Mostly because, as expected, I don't enjoy Lana Ferguson's writing. There's so much non-dialogue and the MCs were in their head so much, so I felt like I was being told this story instead of shown.
I also didn't really care for the MCs, Lachlan and Keyanna. They both acted a bit childish at times towards each other. It was giving school-yard-boy-and-girl-are-mean-to-each-other-because-they-like-each-other vibes, which is a tired trope. Also, Keyanna was afraid of sheep and cows, and seriously asked if they were carnivorous at the beginning of the story. I get she's from the city but why does she have to be a stereotypical city girl who asks dumb questions? It just makes her seem like a total idiot, especially when we live in an era of technology and she definitely has encountered farm animals before with her father at a petting zoo (later discussed).
The pacing was so freaking slow. I was listening to this audiobook at 1.5x speed and there were more than a few moments where I found myself getting frustrated that the story wasn't progressing faster. It's a 12 hour listen that should have been 8 hours max.
Then, there's the few scenes where the monster side comes out while they're having sex. Lach's having sex with Keyanna in his human form while he also had monster parts was not my cup of tea. And I say that as someone who 100% likes monster romances. Either make him full a monster or keep him human, but this half shifting stuff made it more weird. And at one point someone says, “I want you to come full of a monster.” 🥴 The dirty talk was a miss.
The third act 'breakup' and conflict was so dramatic. First off, I don't understand why Lach would feel the way he did after uncovering the truth. And then, Key getting upset at Lach after she's been saying how she's with him till the end was irritating. I can't even say what the real conflict was without spoiling things but it was obvious from the beginning where we were headed so even though it was ridiculous, it was not a surprise.
I did enjoy the Scotland setting and the Scottish lore. My favorite part was uncovering the truth about Lachlan's curse and how Keyanna's family was connected. Not sure if this is based in real lore, but kudos for creativity!
The male narrator, Flint Part, was great! I love his accent and the different voices he used throughout the story. 👏
The female narrator, Samantha Summers did good but her delivery for Keyanna occasionally annoyed the hell out of me. Specifically whenever Keyanna got flustered or upset, she sounded shrill and hysterical, which was irritating. However, Samantha Summers did a fantastic job voicing Keyanna's grandma and grandpa. Her delivery was very convincing and I definitely could sense the love and loss experienced by those two characters.
Overall, this was an interesting story but the way it was written just didn't do it for me. So I personally wouldn't recommend it unless you get the audiobook off Libby and you have nothing else to listen to.
WHAT TO EXPECT:
✨ contemporary paranormal romance
✨ Scotland setting
✨ she’s visiting her estranged family
✨ he’s the farmhand
✨ grumpy scot x sunshine American
✨ dislike to love
✨ 2.5/5 🌶️
✨ nicknames: Nessie and princess
✨ monsters and magic
✨ secrets and curse
✨ family drama
✨ hurt / comfort
✨ mystery
✨ HEA
✨ dual POV
✨ TW: death of loved one (past), grief, child abandonment
My Thoughts:
Audiobook rating: 3.5⭐️ Sexy Scottish accent. ✔️
Story rating: 2.5⭐️ Interesting story. Not the best execution.
Okay, so here's the truth. I know I do not enjoy Lana Ferguson's writing. I wasn't going to pick this up, but the fact it was set in Scotland and about the Loch Ness monster piqued my interest. So when the audiobook came up on Libby, I decided to give it a go.
While it's honestly not a bad story, it's just not for me. Mostly because, as expected, I don't enjoy Lana Ferguson's writing. There's so much non-dialogue and the MCs were in their head so much, so I felt like I was being told this story instead of shown.
I also didn't really care for the MCs, Lachlan and Keyanna. They both acted a bit childish at times towards each other. It was giving school-yard-boy-and-girl-are-mean-to-each-other-because-they-like-each-other vibes, which is a tired trope. Also, Keyanna was afraid of sheep and cows, and seriously asked if they were carnivorous at the beginning of the story. I get she's from the city but why does she have to be a stereotypical city girl who asks dumb questions? It just makes her seem like a total idiot, especially when we live in an era of technology and she definitely has encountered farm animals before with her father at a petting zoo (later discussed).
The pacing was so freaking slow. I was listening to this audiobook at 1.5x speed and there were more than a few moments where I found myself getting frustrated that the story wasn't progressing faster. It's a 12 hour listen that should have been 8 hours max.
Then, there's the few scenes where the monster side comes out while they're having sex. Lach's having sex with Keyanna in his human form while he also had monster parts was not my cup of tea. And I say that as someone who 100% likes monster romances. Either make him full a monster or keep him human, but this half shifting stuff made it more weird. And at one point someone says, “I want you to come full of a monster.” 🥴 The dirty talk was a miss.
The third act 'breakup' and conflict was so dramatic. First off, I don't understand why Lach would feel the way he did after uncovering the truth. And then, Key getting upset at Lach after she's been saying how she's with him till the end was irritating. I can't even say what the real conflict was without spoiling things but it was obvious from the beginning where we were headed so even though it was ridiculous, it was not a surprise.
I did enjoy the Scotland setting and the Scottish lore. My favorite part was uncovering the truth about Lachlan's curse and how Keyanna's family was connected. Not sure if this is based in real lore, but kudos for creativity!
The male narrator, Flint Part, was great! I love his accent and the different voices he used throughout the story. 👏
The female narrator, Samantha Summers did good but her delivery for Keyanna occasionally annoyed the hell out of me. Specifically whenever Keyanna got flustered or upset, she sounded shrill and hysterical, which was irritating. However, Samantha Summers did a fantastic job voicing Keyanna's grandma and grandpa. Her delivery was very convincing and I definitely could sense the love and loss experienced by those two characters.
Overall, this was an interesting story but the way it was written just didn't do it for me. So I personally wouldn't recommend it unless you get the audiobook off Libby and you have nothing else to listen to.
September 14, 2024
Ummmm who knew the LOCH NESS MONSTER could be HOT 🥵🥵
Now we already know I’m a monster romance fan and this one is the perfect example of one that allows you to dip your toes into the genre (no pun intended - but I would dip my toes into WHATEVER water Lachlan is swimming around in at night).
I loved Key, her determination to get to know her family and her growing powers of her own. I also loved how she was immediately ready to help this grumpy man fix the curse upon him. Lachlan was just as perfect with his cranky hermit energy and his sarcastic one-liners.
The curse itself was so interesting and I couldn’t wait for the mystery to be revealed. The magic and the history had be captivated along with the beautiful landscape and hilarious side characters.
Personally I thought their chemistry and tension were perfection. The spice was SPICIN 🔥🔥 we got at least 4 smut scenes AND some monster action in a few. Good god the things I would do for a man who can alter the size and shape of things 🍆 👅
The ending had me BAWLING my eyes out at 3am. Lana is quickly becoming a new autobuy author for me. I do have one small issue and it’s a spoiler so I will include that below. But I HIGHLY recommend you pick this one up monster smut reader or not.
5 STARS
3/5 spice
Big thanks to Lana Ferguson, Berkley and NetGalley for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinions!!
⚠️SPOILERS BELOW⚠️
- okay so when she ended the curse does that mean he can NEVER shift again??! Because how’s she’s gonna get that forked tongue and ridged 🍆 and the CLAWS again?? Because there’s no way she DOESNT want to keep f*cking like that?!
Now we already know I’m a monster romance fan and this one is the perfect example of one that allows you to dip your toes into the genre (no pun intended - but I would dip my toes into WHATEVER water Lachlan is swimming around in at night).
I loved Key, her determination to get to know her family and her growing powers of her own. I also loved how she was immediately ready to help this grumpy man fix the curse upon him. Lachlan was just as perfect with his cranky hermit energy and his sarcastic one-liners.
The curse itself was so interesting and I couldn’t wait for the mystery to be revealed. The magic and the history had be captivated along with the beautiful landscape and hilarious side characters.
Personally I thought their chemistry and tension were perfection. The spice was SPICIN 🔥🔥 we got at least 4 smut scenes AND some monster action in a few. Good god the things I would do for a man who can alter the size and shape of things 🍆 👅
The ending had me BAWLING my eyes out at 3am. Lana is quickly becoming a new autobuy author for me. I do have one small issue and it’s a spoiler so I will include that below. But I HIGHLY recommend you pick this one up monster smut reader or not.
5 STARS
3/5 spice
Big thanks to Lana Ferguson, Berkley and NetGalley for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinions!!
⚠️SPOILERS BELOW⚠️
- okay so when she ended the curse does that mean he can NEVER shift again??! Because how’s she’s gonna get that forked tongue and ridged 🍆 and the CLAWS again?? Because there’s no way she DOESNT want to keep f*cking like that?!
July 31, 2025
Okay I didn’t know this book would take THAT direction but I loved it 😅😅😅😅😅 I had no prior knowledge I didn’t even read the summary so I was a wee bit shocked hahahaha
December 13, 2024
I really enjoy this author’s writing and all of her books work for me so well! If I ranked the 4 out so far: it would be my fav as The Fake Mate, then The Nanny, Under Loch and Key, and lastly The Game Changer. I love that each book truly feels different as far as the tropes, romance subgenres, and vibes.
This one was solid for me, but I do think parts of the story were a bit slow and sloggy to get through. The heroine was raised by her single father who has passed away, she decides to travel back to his hometown in Scotland to get some closure and finds herself getting to know a whole lot more of her family’s complicated history, lore, and a curse! We do get some Loch Ness monster in this one which was fun. While there she meets the hero too and learns about his history as well! There is a bit of mystery to the plot involving a centuries old curse and other magical feeling bits to the story.
The audio was especially fun! Just some of the times the story and romance would very much slow down and I felt a bit bored with things happening with the characters. Obviously not enough to have a terrible time by any means, this was still a solid story and had so many beautiful, sweet, tender moments for the characters, but just worth mentioning compared to the other reads I’ve loved from this author!
This one was solid for me, but I do think parts of the story were a bit slow and sloggy to get through. The heroine was raised by her single father who has passed away, she decides to travel back to his hometown in Scotland to get some closure and finds herself getting to know a whole lot more of her family’s complicated history, lore, and a curse! We do get some Loch Ness monster in this one which was fun. While there she meets the hero too and learns about his history as well! There is a bit of mystery to the plot involving a centuries old curse and other magical feeling bits to the story.
The audio was especially fun! Just some of the times the story and romance would very much slow down and I felt a bit bored with things happening with the characters. Obviously not enough to have a terrible time by any means, this was still a solid story and had so many beautiful, sweet, tender moments for the characters, but just worth mentioning compared to the other reads I’ve loved from this author!
February 16, 2025
Keyanna and Lachlan definitely gave enemies to lovers trope a run for it's money . I loved Keyanna's journey to find her lost family and heritage. It was a beautiful thing to watch unfold. Lach was a hottie but a jerk. Though I don't think Key helped make it any less. Lol this was cute and had some funny moments but also some sweet moments! It took me several weeks to finish this as it wasnt truly holding my attention as much as I'd prefer. Overall a decent read. 3 stars!
November 12, 2024
Fmc: 3/5 stars
Mmc: 4.75/5 stars
Story: 3.75/5 stars
Setting: 4/5 stars
Spice level: 3/5
Spice quality: 4.5/5
Mystery: 3/5
Arc from netGalley
Mmc: 4.75/5 stars
Story: 3.75/5 stars
Setting: 4/5 stars
Spice level: 3/5
Spice quality: 4.5/5
Mystery: 3/5
Arc from netGalley
March 24, 2025
It was ok overall..... the only problem is the author spent too much time on the characters’ inner monologues, which took away from the excitement of the final scene.
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