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Kilted Hearts #1
Cowboy in a Kilt
Listening Length: 7 hours and 23 minutes
A cowboy without a home
Robbed of the family ranch that should have been his legacy, Raleigh Beaumont is a man with no roots and no purpose. When a friend drags him to Vegas, he figures he’s got nothing to lose. But after a hell of a lot of whiskey and a high stakes poker game with a beautiful stranger, he finds himself the alleged owner of a barony in Scotland.
An heiress with a crumbling heritage
When her brother’s bride disappears just days before the wedding that’s meant to save their ancestral home from the mad marriage pact that’s held their family captive for generations, Kyla MacKean believes they’ve been granted a reprieve. Until she finds out about the new, single—male—owner of Lochmara and knows she’s next on the chopping block or ownership of both their estates reverts to the crown.
A modern answer to a three-hundred-year-old problem.
Raleigh’s lost his land once. He’s not about to lose it again. Not even because of some lunatic pact made centuries before he was born. Kyla’s desperate to save Ardinmuir. She agrees to marry him on one condition: They wed for one year to satisfy the pact, then get a quick and quiet divorce. There’s no stipulation against it, and they’ll both get what they want.
But this displaced Texan and his fiery bride are about to find so much more than they bargained for.
A cowboy without a home
Robbed of the family ranch that should have been his legacy, Raleigh Beaumont is a man with no roots and no purpose. When a friend drags him to Vegas, he figures he’s got nothing to lose. But after a hell of a lot of whiskey and a high stakes poker game with a beautiful stranger, he finds himself the alleged owner of a barony in Scotland.
An heiress with a crumbling heritage
When her brother’s bride disappears just days before the wedding that’s meant to save their ancestral home from the mad marriage pact that’s held their family captive for generations, Kyla MacKean believes they’ve been granted a reprieve. Until she finds out about the new, single—male—owner of Lochmara and knows she’s next on the chopping block or ownership of both their estates reverts to the crown.
A modern answer to a three-hundred-year-old problem.
Raleigh’s lost his land once. He’s not about to lose it again. Not even because of some lunatic pact made centuries before he was born. Kyla’s desperate to save Ardinmuir. She agrees to marry him on one condition: They wed for one year to satisfy the pact, then get a quick and quiet divorce. There’s no stipulation against it, and they’ll both get what they want.
But this displaced Texan and his fiery bride are about to find so much more than they bargained for.
Audible Audio
First published January 13, 2023
831 people are currently reading
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About the author
Kait Nolan
153 books1,362 followersKait Nolan is a RITA® Award-winning Mississippi author who calls everyone sugar, honey, or darlin', and can wield a 'Bless your heart' like a Snuggie or a saber, depending on requirements. She believes in love, laughter, and that tacos are the world's most perfect food. When she's not writing, reading, working the evil day job, or wrangling family (both the two-legged and the four-), you can find her obsessively watching The Great British Bake Off.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 276 reviews
did-not-finish
April 26, 2024DNF at 15%.
I'm almost always down for a good arraigned marriage/marriage of convenience.
But this is starting to get too twisty for me.
I don't get how he's able to win an estate through gambling... but he's definitely not the "new baron". I don't think there's any way to get a title through gambling even if he has the estate.
Also, the heroine is dating someone else... not cool with her going "ya, let's stay together and get together after my divorce".
Nah. Not for me.
I'm almost always down for a good arraigned marriage/marriage of convenience.
But this is starting to get too twisty for me.
I don't get how he's able to win an estate through gambling... but he's definitely not the "new baron". I don't think there's any way to get a title through gambling even if he has the estate.
Also, the heroine is dating someone else... not cool with her going "ya, let's stay together and get together after my divorce".
Nah. Not for me.
February 19, 2023
Check out all my reviews at: https://www.avonnalovesgenres.com
COWBOY IN A KILT (Kilted Hearts Book #1) by Kait Nolan is a contemporary romance that has everything I want in a romance read! This is the first book I have read by this author, and I have been missing out. A centuries old marriage pact, a Texan cowboy who gambles and wins a Scottish Highland estate and a Scottish heiress hanging on to her heritage by a thread come together in a heartfelt romance that satisfies on every level.
Raleigh Beaumont has studied and trained his entire life to be able to one day take over his mother’s birthright Texas ranch, but it doesn’t happen. His best friend drags him to Vegas to drown his sorrows and he ends up in a high stakes poker game with a mysterious beautiful woman. He comes away the new owner of a barony in Scotland.
Kyla MacKean has been waiting for the end of the marriage pact which has hung over Ardinmuir for over three hundred years with her brother’s marriage, but the bride has disappeared. Now with the new owner of Lochmara being a single male, Kyla must satisfy the pact.
Raleigh is not going to lose everything again because of a stupid ancient pact, so he proposes a marriage of convenience for one year to satisfy the pact. They can then divorce and still end up with what they want, but they end up discovering their lands are not all they need.
I love the H/h in this story so much! Ms. Nolan was able to bring together two people from completely different countries and upbringings by making what is important to them at their core be the same. Raleigh is a swoon worthy hero who cares for all those he feels responsible for, cares for the prosperity and future of his land, and is willing to adapt to his new circumstances. Kyla is a heroine who has had the weight of her family’s legacy always foremost in her life. Raleigh is able to show her other solutions to their problems and get her to enjoy her life more. As Raleigh and Kyla’s relationship grows there are so many heartfelt moments throughout this romance. The sex scenes are explicit, but only come about with their emotional growth into a real relationship. I was also happy with the way the author handled Kyla’s relationship with her previous boyfriend with honesty and integrity. All the secondary characters were fully drawn and added to the feeling of living in a small Highland village.
This is a contemporary romance that I highly recommend! I am waiting anxiously to read the next book in the series not only to see where this series goes, but also because of the little teaser peak the author left the reader with at the end of this HEA.
COWBOY IN A KILT (Kilted Hearts Book #1) by Kait Nolan is a contemporary romance that has everything I want in a romance read! This is the first book I have read by this author, and I have been missing out. A centuries old marriage pact, a Texan cowboy who gambles and wins a Scottish Highland estate and a Scottish heiress hanging on to her heritage by a thread come together in a heartfelt romance that satisfies on every level.
Raleigh Beaumont has studied and trained his entire life to be able to one day take over his mother’s birthright Texas ranch, but it doesn’t happen. His best friend drags him to Vegas to drown his sorrows and he ends up in a high stakes poker game with a mysterious beautiful woman. He comes away the new owner of a barony in Scotland.
Kyla MacKean has been waiting for the end of the marriage pact which has hung over Ardinmuir for over three hundred years with her brother’s marriage, but the bride has disappeared. Now with the new owner of Lochmara being a single male, Kyla must satisfy the pact.
Raleigh is not going to lose everything again because of a stupid ancient pact, so he proposes a marriage of convenience for one year to satisfy the pact. They can then divorce and still end up with what they want, but they end up discovering their lands are not all they need.
I love the H/h in this story so much! Ms. Nolan was able to bring together two people from completely different countries and upbringings by making what is important to them at their core be the same. Raleigh is a swoon worthy hero who cares for all those he feels responsible for, cares for the prosperity and future of his land, and is willing to adapt to his new circumstances. Kyla is a heroine who has had the weight of her family’s legacy always foremost in her life. Raleigh is able to show her other solutions to their problems and get her to enjoy her life more. As Raleigh and Kyla’s relationship grows there are so many heartfelt moments throughout this romance. The sex scenes are explicit, but only come about with their emotional growth into a real relationship. I was also happy with the way the author handled Kyla’s relationship with her previous boyfriend with honesty and integrity. All the secondary characters were fully drawn and added to the feeling of living in a small Highland village.
This is a contemporary romance that I highly recommend! I am waiting anxiously to read the next book in the series not only to see where this series goes, but also because of the little teaser peak the author left the reader with at the end of this HEA.
February 2, 2023
I really enjoyed this fake marriage story - which is saying a lot because that’s not a trope I generally enjoy. And while there was a bit of the “woe is me, I’m in love but this relationship is going to end because that’s our agreement” drama, it wasn’t a drum that was pounded early, often, or hard. When both realized they felt more for the other, they shared it - and that was unbelievably good to see because non-communication is something this author has used quite a bit in the past to create conflict.
There was also a bit of a love triangle thing going on that kinda gave me feelings of ick - if the hero had been in a serious relationship and had to “take a break” to marry someone else, but fully intended to get back together with his girlfriend after the fake marriage was over and that was the understanding of the girlfriend, it wouldn’t go over well with most romance readers. I feel like the heroine got off without any judgement when maybe there should be some.
At any rate, I’m looking forward to the rest of this series!
There was also a bit of a love triangle thing going on that kinda gave me feelings of ick - if the hero had been in a serious relationship and had to “take a break” to marry someone else, but fully intended to get back together with his girlfriend after the fake marriage was over and that was the understanding of the girlfriend, it wouldn’t go over well with most romance readers. I feel like the heroine got off without any judgement when maybe there should be some.
At any rate, I’m looking forward to the rest of this series!
August 1, 2023
The semi-cheating didn't work for me, but everything else was as camp as expected!
February 6, 2025
A-Z Challenge Book C
4.5 stars: I picked this up for free back in August of 2023. The cover has changed since then and I really like the updated one with both MCs on the cover. It’s sweet and fits them perfectly.
This is my second book I’ve read by Kait Nolan and it was a much better experience for me. I’m not sure if it was my mood or that the book was just that good, but it hit all the right spots. The only reason I’m rounding down is because I felt the ending was too abrupt. I was thankful for the epilogue. It was a good way to round the story out, but I still wish the book had been a few chapters longer.
The relationship developed naturally between Kyla and Raleigh and the sex scenes (there were 2, one of which was in the epilogue) were tastefully done and felt realistic and not porny. I absolutely loved Raleigh! While I love a well written alpha male, it’s good to read the sensitive, respectful, big-hearted man every once in a while. Raleigh fit that bill well. I liked the setting in Scotland and all the side characters. They certainly made me want to read their books!! It makes me sad that they’re not in KU or available in my library to borrow. I did, however, manage to pick up book number 4 for free yesterday, so I’ll eventually get around to that one. If it had been book 2 that had been available, I would’ve jumped right in to reading that one.
I have to mention that I was turned off by all the descriptors in the titles of this series. Had I not owned the first book to begin with, I wouldn’t have bothered with it. Those tags belong in the blurb for the book, NOT in the title. This one says “Cowboy in a Kilt: A Fish Out of Water, Marriage of Convenience, Small Town Scottish Romance”. It made me roll my eyes.
4.5 stars: I picked this up for free back in August of 2023. The cover has changed since then and I really like the updated one with both MCs on the cover. It’s sweet and fits them perfectly.
This is my second book I’ve read by Kait Nolan and it was a much better experience for me. I’m not sure if it was my mood or that the book was just that good, but it hit all the right spots. The only reason I’m rounding down is because I felt the ending was too abrupt. I was thankful for the epilogue. It was a good way to round the story out, but I still wish the book had been a few chapters longer.
The relationship developed naturally between Kyla and Raleigh and the sex scenes (there were 2, one of which was in the epilogue) were tastefully done and felt realistic and not porny. I absolutely loved Raleigh! While I love a well written alpha male, it’s good to read the sensitive, respectful, big-hearted man every once in a while. Raleigh fit that bill well. I liked the setting in Scotland and all the side characters. They certainly made me want to read their books!! It makes me sad that they’re not in KU or available in my library to borrow. I did, however, manage to pick up book number 4 for free yesterday, so I’ll eventually get around to that one. If it had been book 2 that had been available, I would’ve jumped right in to reading that one.
I have to mention that I was turned off by all the descriptors in the titles of this series. Had I not owned the first book to begin with, I wouldn’t have bothered with it. Those tags belong in the blurb for the book, NOT in the title. This one says “Cowboy in a Kilt: A Fish Out of Water, Marriage of Convenience, Small Town Scottish Romance”. It made me roll my eyes.
January 13, 2023
After finding out that his family legacy has been taken from him a trip to Vegas leads to Raleigh winning a property in Scotland through a poker game. With nothing holding him in the US he ventures to his new property only to find out that if he wants to keep it he must marry.
Kyla and her family thought that they had secured their family lands only to have her brother’s fiancé change her mind. In order to save their lands she must marry Raleigh but it isn’t long before their business arrangement starts to feel real and that’s when the complications really begin.
They may have been brought together by Raleigh looking for a fresh start and Kyla wanting to protect her family’s land, but these two characters draw you in and show you that isn’t what is keeping them together.
Kyla and her family thought that they had secured their family lands only to have her brother’s fiancé change her mind. In order to save their lands she must marry Raleigh but it isn’t long before their business arrangement starts to feel real and that’s when the complications really begin.
They may have been brought together by Raleigh looking for a fresh start and Kyla wanting to protect her family’s land, but these two characters draw you in and show you that isn’t what is keeping them together.
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February 11, 2023
Raleigh Beaumont has spent his entire life preparing to run the Texas ranch that has been in his late mother's family for generations, so it comes as a shock when his father passes away and leaves the ranch to his second wife, Raleigh's (wicked) stepmother Twila, instead of him. Twila has no interest in running a ranch, so she accepts a buyout offer from developers to fund her designer lifestyle in Dallas. Realizing that he needs to get away from the situation, Raleigh's best friend Zeke takes him to Las Vegas, where he meets a mysterious woman who, after hearing his tale, invites him to a private poker game. He's not sure if he should accept, but curiosity gets the better of him. Later that evening, Raleigh is stunned to find himself the new Baron of Lochmara, an estate in Scotland.
Meanwhile, Kyla MacKean has been busy preparing her family's estate, Ardinmuir, for her brother's upcoming wedding, which she hopes will establish them as a premier Highlands wedding destination. Her plans are threatened when the bride, Afton Lennox, runs away a week before the wedding. They soon learn that Afton lost her ancestral estate, Lochmara, in a poker game and the new owner has arrived to claim his prize. In order to keep it, Raleigh will have to fulfill the terms of an ancient marriage pact by taking Kyla as his bride. With ownership of Ardinmuir on the line as well, Kyla agrees to a one-year marriage of convenience; after that, she and Raleigh will divorce, having satisfied the terms of the pact. But a year is a long time, and when all is said and done, Kyla and Raleigh may just find that their feelings for each other are more than mere convenience.
I completely adored this story! We're only two weeks into January and I'm pretty sure it's going to end up being one of my favorite books of the year. After the initial fireworks when they first met, I liked that Kyla and Raleigh became friends and partners as they worked to save both of their estates. The romance that blossomed between them was kind of sneaky and unexpected, but it made perfect sense given their mutual interest in preserving the land and heritage. They supported each other and their ideas, which was particularly important for Kyla because she felt as if she'd carried the burden of her family's legacy alone for so long. For her, it was refreshing and gratifying to find someone willing to help her.
I highly recommend "Cowboy in a Kilt" for all contemporary romance fans and can't wait to get my hands on the next book of the series.
*Review copy provided by the author via Wildfire Marketing Solutions. All opinions expressed are my own.
Meanwhile, Kyla MacKean has been busy preparing her family's estate, Ardinmuir, for her brother's upcoming wedding, which she hopes will establish them as a premier Highlands wedding destination. Her plans are threatened when the bride, Afton Lennox, runs away a week before the wedding. They soon learn that Afton lost her ancestral estate, Lochmara, in a poker game and the new owner has arrived to claim his prize. In order to keep it, Raleigh will have to fulfill the terms of an ancient marriage pact by taking Kyla as his bride. With ownership of Ardinmuir on the line as well, Kyla agrees to a one-year marriage of convenience; after that, she and Raleigh will divorce, having satisfied the terms of the pact. But a year is a long time, and when all is said and done, Kyla and Raleigh may just find that their feelings for each other are more than mere convenience.
I completely adored this story! We're only two weeks into January and I'm pretty sure it's going to end up being one of my favorite books of the year. After the initial fireworks when they first met, I liked that Kyla and Raleigh became friends and partners as they worked to save both of their estates. The romance that blossomed between them was kind of sneaky and unexpected, but it made perfect sense given their mutual interest in preserving the land and heritage. They supported each other and their ideas, which was particularly important for Kyla because she felt as if she'd carried the burden of her family's legacy alone for so long. For her, it was refreshing and gratifying to find someone willing to help her.
I highly recommend "Cowboy in a Kilt" for all contemporary romance fans and can't wait to get my hands on the next book of the series.
*Review copy provided by the author via Wildfire Marketing Solutions. All opinions expressed are my own.
February 22, 2023
When I chose this book, it was the title that first snagged my attention. I mean, what’s not to love . . . a cowboy . . . a kilt . . .and what I thought would be plenty of sexy and swoony moments ahead, sprinkled with some funny fish out of water type moments. Instead, I found myself immersed in a fabulous slow burn with characters I immediately fell for and a story that was simply lovely to read.
Raleigh truly was feeling rock bottom, having had his birthright stolen out from under him. While he had his best friend and the woman who helped to raise him, everything he expected out of life was gone. It truly was fate that Afton somehow found him in Vegas and knew he was the one person who could right the situation without even knowing about it.
Kyla was between a rock and a hard place trying to save her family’s legacy. When Raleigh offers her a marriage of convenience to save both of their futures with a divorce soon to follow, it makes sense. And, that is where the beauty of this story truly begins. The slow burn between this convenient couple is glorious. A caregiver by nature, Raleigh is the perfect person to help Kyla slow down and share her burdens while working together as friends that quickly become so much more.
Of course, there is some angst and some drama. Neither was expecting to wed, let alone have feelings for one another, especially since Kyla was already in a relationship. There are also some extremely heartfelt moments as this couple gets to know one another and, as Raleigh finds himself in a small community with friends and family he never expected to find.
Cowboy in a Kilt was a really heartfelt romance and beautiful story about taking chances, family and making a home when and where you least expect it. 5 stars!
Raleigh truly was feeling rock bottom, having had his birthright stolen out from under him. While he had his best friend and the woman who helped to raise him, everything he expected out of life was gone. It truly was fate that Afton somehow found him in Vegas and knew he was the one person who could right the situation without even knowing about it.
Kyla was between a rock and a hard place trying to save her family’s legacy. When Raleigh offers her a marriage of convenience to save both of their futures with a divorce soon to follow, it makes sense. And, that is where the beauty of this story truly begins. The slow burn between this convenient couple is glorious. A caregiver by nature, Raleigh is the perfect person to help Kyla slow down and share her burdens while working together as friends that quickly become so much more.
Of course, there is some angst and some drama. Neither was expecting to wed, let alone have feelings for one another, especially since Kyla was already in a relationship. There are also some extremely heartfelt moments as this couple gets to know one another and, as Raleigh finds himself in a small community with friends and family he never expected to find.
Cowboy in a Kilt was a really heartfelt romance and beautiful story about taking chances, family and making a home when and where you least expect it. 5 stars!
January 6, 2023
I really enjoyed reading how Kyla and Raleigh's marriage of convenience developed from a platonic business arrangement into something much more.
With a great cast of characters, beautiful Scottish scenery and an engaging plotline, this is a terrific start to the Kilted Hearts series.
I received an Advanced Reader Copy of this book and have chosen to review it.
With a great cast of characters, beautiful Scottish scenery and an engaging plotline, this is a terrific start to the Kilted Hearts series.
I received an Advanced Reader Copy of this book and have chosen to review it.
January 4, 2023
Another great book from Kait, only this time it is set in Scotland. Sometimes you forget it is set there and then there is a word thrown in for the accent.
Kinda jarring when it comes up, but right back into the story you go. I can't wait to read the rest of the series!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Kinda jarring when it comes up, but right back into the story you go. I can't wait to read the rest of the series!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 8, 2022
Rcvd an advanced reader copy from Booksprout for giving my two cents. We met Afton in the last book leaving her home in oursuit of happiness and freedom. We meet Raleigh, a Texan rancher who lost everything to the evil stepmother, in Vegas to forget his troubles. What he doesn't expect is a Scottish blonde wanting to play Texas hold-em....and the prize ...unknown until her wins. Raleigh is now the new Baron of Lochmara...WHAT! Kyla and her family are trying to think of mays from stopping the Crown from taking their lands now that Afton went MIA. But what is shocking is Hamish, longtime friend and lawyer tells them there is a new owner and he should arrive next wk. Kyla can't believe Hamish said "he" and now the responsibility falls to her. Raleigh can't believe this beautiful countryside and that now he is a landowner. After her arrives he has guests in the form a beautiful redhead who wants to buy his land...no thank you. What is unknown to Raleigh is his responsibility now that he owns Lochmara. What will Raleigh do what he finds out? Can Kyla keep her family legacy or will she be homeless? A great read! Full of drama, heart and doing what's best for the soul.
April 2, 2024
I bought this on the Chirp $1 audiobook deal day based on the title alone. I mean come on. A cowboy. In a kilt. Clearly I needed to know.
Robbed of his rightful inheritance of his family's ranch in Texas, Raleigh flies to Vegas to let off some steam and ensure he doesn't do anything dumb at home. When there, he ends up in a conversation with a Scottish stranger. She invites him to a private poker game where he ends up winning a Scottish estate and with it, a barony and a forced marriage. The old family pact tied to the land means he will have to marry Kyla, who's currently in a relationship. Both are willing to do what they need to in order to follow the terms, but it will be a marriage of convenience only. Except, do marriages of convenience ever actually stay that way?!
Read if you like:
✅ Cowboy romance
✅ Scottish settings and accents
✅ Marriage of convenience
This was fun and cute. I didn't get the entire loophole bit in the pact, but it was still an entertaining read. Much more than I thought I'd get out of this.
⭐⭐⭐
Robbed of his rightful inheritance of his family's ranch in Texas, Raleigh flies to Vegas to let off some steam and ensure he doesn't do anything dumb at home. When there, he ends up in a conversation with a Scottish stranger. She invites him to a private poker game where he ends up winning a Scottish estate and with it, a barony and a forced marriage. The old family pact tied to the land means he will have to marry Kyla, who's currently in a relationship. Both are willing to do what they need to in order to follow the terms, but it will be a marriage of convenience only. Except, do marriages of convenience ever actually stay that way?!
Read if you like:
✅ Cowboy romance
✅ Scottish settings and accents
✅ Marriage of convenience
This was fun and cute. I didn't get the entire loophole bit in the pact, but it was still an entertaining read. Much more than I thought I'd get out of this.
⭐⭐⭐
August 30, 2023
Book: Cowboy in a Kilt
Read By: Ebook
Author: Kait Nolan
Genre: Westerns, Romance
Recommend: Yes
Spice:🌶️️ 🌶️️
< b>Age recommendation: 18-30+ Years
My feelings:
Texan man with a Scotland Barony.
She always said you should never be the first person to let go in a hug because the other person might need it more.”
A marriage if convenance and sexual tension so thick you can’t cut it with a knife.
He just wished his fool heart would get the memo, because catching real feelings for his temporary wife was a supremely bad idea.
I don’t normally read Cowboy romance, but I grabbed this on the stuff your kindle day and it didnt disappoint at all.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 13, 2025
The couple: Raleigh and Kyla
Romance trope: fake relationship
Series: Kilted Hearts
Length: 246 pages
Plot: Kyla is doing everything she can to keep her estate afloat, but it really all hinges on her brother and the neighbor fulfilling the strange marriage requirement that the Crown insists upon in order to keep their ancestral homes. So when the neighbor runs off right before the wedding and gambles away her estate, the marriage responsibility now becomes Kyla's. She and Raleigh, the new owner of the estate next door, must marry to keep their homes, and so they enter a marriage of convenience with a time limit. But neither of them are keen to leave once they get to know each other and so they'll have to make some big decisions about what matters most.
Commentary: And this is why people with money or property need estate lawyers - if Raleigh's mom had had a will done properly, then the dad couldn't have taken ownership of the family ranch and left it all to the new wife. That was sad, all that legacy gone. But it was just a plot device anyways, of course (although I imagine sometimes similar happens all the time in real left), to lead Raleigh to his true destiny, Scotland and Kyla. There wasn't a lot of conflict, even considering she was already dating someone, there was the accident and misunderstanding, the marriage requirement - it felt like there should have been more conflict, but they were actually adults about everything, and that was somewhat refreshing.
Next book in the series: Grump in a Kilt
Romance trope: fake relationship
Series: Kilted Hearts
Length: 246 pages
Plot: Kyla is doing everything she can to keep her estate afloat, but it really all hinges on her brother and the neighbor fulfilling the strange marriage requirement that the Crown insists upon in order to keep their ancestral homes. So when the neighbor runs off right before the wedding and gambles away her estate, the marriage responsibility now becomes Kyla's. She and Raleigh, the new owner of the estate next door, must marry to keep their homes, and so they enter a marriage of convenience with a time limit. But neither of them are keen to leave once they get to know each other and so they'll have to make some big decisions about what matters most.
Commentary: And this is why people with money or property need estate lawyers - if Raleigh's mom had had a will done properly, then the dad couldn't have taken ownership of the family ranch and left it all to the new wife. That was sad, all that legacy gone. But it was just a plot device anyways, of course (although I imagine sometimes similar happens all the time in real left), to lead Raleigh to his true destiny, Scotland and Kyla. There wasn't a lot of conflict, even considering she was already dating someone, there was the accident and misunderstanding, the marriage requirement - it felt like there should have been more conflict, but they were actually adults about everything, and that was somewhat refreshing.
Next book in the series: Grump in a Kilt
March 8, 2025
I absolutely love this book. The MC’s are Kyla & Raleigh. Set in Scotland but starting off in Texas with Raleigh. Lots of interesting stories throughout. Heartbreaking stuff as well as euphoric moments. So much content. Definitely worth the time reading 📖! Thanks for buddy reading (even though it took me so long) goes to my sister as always! 💜💜💜
October 2, 2024
The beginning’s a bit rough with all of the strings and machinations but the couple (namely the hero) is worth it.
October 30, 2023
3.5 Stars
January 24, 2023
Full of passion, sweetness, acceptance and love
I loved, loved Raleigh and Kyla’s marriage of convenience, forced proximity, huge life change romance with a side of crazy inheritance requirements. This story will give you all the swoony swoons while also pulling at your heartstrings with all the emotions. It was definitely a stay up too late, cannot put it down, I was sad for it to end kind of book. In Las Vegas trying to figure out a new life plan after learning his father bequeathed his entire family ranch and birthright in Texas to his gold digging stepmother, Raleigh is invited to a poker game where he wins a Scottish estate and title. Unbeknownst to him the land comes with a marriage requirement in order to keep the land. Kyla is also now subject to the marriage requirement now that Raleigh is the owner of the property. They agree to a month long marriage followed by a year separation and divorce. But of course, things get complicated fast, feelings develop and sticking to the initial plan is not as appealing. Experiencing Raleigh and Kyla’s HEA journey included sweet moments, steamy scenes, chuckles, supportive friends, messy families, painful pasts, and heart squeezing love and you will feel all the feels - laughing, crying, swooning, teeth gritting, and cheering. I cannot wait to read more stories in this series.
I loved, loved Raleigh and Kyla’s marriage of convenience, forced proximity, huge life change romance with a side of crazy inheritance requirements. This story will give you all the swoony swoons while also pulling at your heartstrings with all the emotions. It was definitely a stay up too late, cannot put it down, I was sad for it to end kind of book. In Las Vegas trying to figure out a new life plan after learning his father bequeathed his entire family ranch and birthright in Texas to his gold digging stepmother, Raleigh is invited to a poker game where he wins a Scottish estate and title. Unbeknownst to him the land comes with a marriage requirement in order to keep the land. Kyla is also now subject to the marriage requirement now that Raleigh is the owner of the property. They agree to a month long marriage followed by a year separation and divorce. But of course, things get complicated fast, feelings develop and sticking to the initial plan is not as appealing. Experiencing Raleigh and Kyla’s HEA journey included sweet moments, steamy scenes, chuckles, supportive friends, messy families, painful pasts, and heart squeezing love and you will feel all the feels - laughing, crying, swooning, teeth gritting, and cheering. I cannot wait to read more stories in this series.
August 29, 2023
Dude. DUDE!
I was not expecting Texas cowboy rancher who wins estate in Scotland to be so hot! And it's great to see a reversal of this pairing. Usually it's the woman who is wooed by the Laird. Not in this case. Fake marriage tropes will get me every time but this...this was so good. And kudos for not making the partner who lost a jerk or evil. Sometimes things happen.
Such a good story.
I was not expecting Texas cowboy rancher who wins estate in Scotland to be so hot! And it's great to see a reversal of this pairing. Usually it's the woman who is wooed by the Laird. Not in this case. Fake marriage tropes will get me every time but this...this was so good. And kudos for not making the partner who lost a jerk or evil. Sometimes things happen.
Such a good story.
January 11, 2023
Raleigh Beaumont has lost everything to his evil stepmother following his father’s death. When his friend drags him from Texas to Las Vegas, a windfall from a stranger drops into his lap. It comes with a parcel of land, Lochmara, and the title of Baron, but he has to move to Scotland to claim it. Definitely better than moping over what’s no longer his. Once in Scotland, however, he learns that his new home may be in jeopardy.
Kyla MacKean is a Scottish woman who lives next door, in a castle, Ardinmuir, with her brother and uncle. Since Afton Lennox jilted her brother, breaking a 300 year old pact, Kyla not only has to run her family’s castle and estate, and get her new event business up and running, she needs to figure out a way to keep the property from reverting to the Crown.
Raleigh and Kyla get off on the wrong foot from their very first meeting. The cowboy, however, has a way of working his way into people’s hearts. Both of them are smart; can they come up with a way to save both properties? And maybe something more?
It might not be easy. There’s another man waiting for Kyla. He’s willing to give her time to try to save her property, but he’ll only wait so long. Love triangles never go smoothly.
This is one of this author’s best stories to date. It’s the second book in the series, and it’s filled with amazing, charismatic characters, fully fleshed out. Several of the characters have interesting and tragic backgrounds that help to endear them to the reader. Raleigh and Kyla have great friends and family that create a wonderful support community for them.
This book is a true delight. It’s a page turner that will keep you up late as you read on to see what happens. And I dare you not to fall in love with each and every character. I highly recommend it.
I received an advanced reader copy of this book from the author. I thank her for her generosity, but it had no effect on this review. All opinions in this review reflect my true and honest reactions to reading this book.
Kyla MacKean is a Scottish woman who lives next door, in a castle, Ardinmuir, with her brother and uncle. Since Afton Lennox jilted her brother, breaking a 300 year old pact, Kyla not only has to run her family’s castle and estate, and get her new event business up and running, she needs to figure out a way to keep the property from reverting to the Crown.
Raleigh and Kyla get off on the wrong foot from their very first meeting. The cowboy, however, has a way of working his way into people’s hearts. Both of them are smart; can they come up with a way to save both properties? And maybe something more?
It might not be easy. There’s another man waiting for Kyla. He’s willing to give her time to try to save her property, but he’ll only wait so long. Love triangles never go smoothly.
This is one of this author’s best stories to date. It’s the second book in the series, and it’s filled with amazing, charismatic characters, fully fleshed out. Several of the characters have interesting and tragic backgrounds that help to endear them to the reader. Raleigh and Kyla have great friends and family that create a wonderful support community for them.
This book is a true delight. It’s a page turner that will keep you up late as you read on to see what happens. And I dare you not to fall in love with each and every character. I highly recommend it.
I received an advanced reader copy of this book from the author. I thank her for her generosity, but it had no effect on this review. All opinions in this review reflect my true and honest reactions to reading this book.
January 14, 2023
I have been a fan of Kait Nolan's books for quite a while now, and I can honestly say that "Cowboy in a Kilt" is my all time favorite! It has everything needed to make it a great story: small town feel (even in Scotland), two main characters that are both very likable, wonderful secondary characters, sexy times, funny times, and a tremendous storyline.
I found it clever the way Nolan was able to take two people from totally different backgrounds and countries and yet make their lives seem so similar. Both had experienced loss, both wanted to regain land to call their own, both were willing to make sacrifices to help others, etc.
It was also clever the way Nolan incorporated Raleigh's "Texas" into the story: she described Kyla's eyes as "bluebonnet" and she had Raleigh questionning whether it was "unconventional to have brisket shooters" at a wedding reception in Scotland.
I suppose my favorite aspect of this story was that it was a good old romance story. So many stories have the main characters falling into bed and then deciding if they want to date, want to make it work. "Cowboy in a Kilt" is the story of two people who may have started their lives together in an unorthodox manner, but who truly love and respect each other enough to put each of their needs aside for the sake of the other. There was a true romance to this story that has been missing in so many romance stories nowadays.
Lastly, Nolan did such an excellent job of using Scottish colloquialisms that it made you feel like you were in the Scottish highlands.
Well done, Kait Nolan!
I found it clever the way Nolan was able to take two people from totally different backgrounds and countries and yet make their lives seem so similar. Both had experienced loss, both wanted to regain land to call their own, both were willing to make sacrifices to help others, etc.
It was also clever the way Nolan incorporated Raleigh's "Texas" into the story: she described Kyla's eyes as "bluebonnet" and she had Raleigh questionning whether it was "unconventional to have brisket shooters" at a wedding reception in Scotland.
I suppose my favorite aspect of this story was that it was a good old romance story. So many stories have the main characters falling into bed and then deciding if they want to date, want to make it work. "Cowboy in a Kilt" is the story of two people who may have started their lives together in an unorthodox manner, but who truly love and respect each other enough to put each of their needs aside for the sake of the other. There was a true romance to this story that has been missing in so many romance stories nowadays.
Lastly, Nolan did such an excellent job of using Scottish colloquialisms that it made you feel like you were in the Scottish highlands.
Well done, Kait Nolan!
January 13, 2023
Written in third person from an alternating dual POV, this book can be read as a standalone and ends with a HEA.
When Raleigh wins a Scottish estate after losing his ranch in Texas, he decides to pivot and make the best of the situation. When he finds out his new ownership comes with an ancient wedding pact, he proposes a business arrangement with Kyla to end it once and for all. Raleigh is amazing. He is down to earth, honest, hardworking, and takes care of Kyla like she never knew she needed.
Kyla has been struggling to keep her own estate afloat. She is pleasantly surprised to find out how much she actually likes Raleigh. I love her dedication to her family, and her estate’s history. She is strong, sassy, and determined. I love how Raleigh supports her and how they form an easy friendship.
This was a fun read. I love the Scottish village. I love the characters from the estates, the town , and also Raleigh’s second mama, Charlotte. I was hooked into this one and didn’t want to put it down. Raleigh and Kyla have some definite chemistry which results in a little bit of a slow burn due to circumstances. They do finally get together physically in an open-door scene. The epilogue also gives readers another glimpse of their bedroom life. The biggest part of this story though is the way both characters are surprised by finding someone they are completely compatible with and then fall fast and hard into a swoon-y love. There is a quaich ceremony at their wedding reception that literally melted me. (My eyes were leaking, and that doesn’t happen.) There is also the very romantic scene at the end where they admit their love for each other that gave me all the feels. I can tell you now, this is going to be on my top reads list for 2023. It is everything I want in a romance.
I am voluntarily leaving this honest review after receiving an advance reader copy of the book.
When Raleigh wins a Scottish estate after losing his ranch in Texas, he decides to pivot and make the best of the situation. When he finds out his new ownership comes with an ancient wedding pact, he proposes a business arrangement with Kyla to end it once and for all. Raleigh is amazing. He is down to earth, honest, hardworking, and takes care of Kyla like she never knew she needed.
Kyla has been struggling to keep her own estate afloat. She is pleasantly surprised to find out how much she actually likes Raleigh. I love her dedication to her family, and her estate’s history. She is strong, sassy, and determined. I love how Raleigh supports her and how they form an easy friendship.
This was a fun read. I love the Scottish village. I love the characters from the estates, the town , and also Raleigh’s second mama, Charlotte. I was hooked into this one and didn’t want to put it down. Raleigh and Kyla have some definite chemistry which results in a little bit of a slow burn due to circumstances. They do finally get together physically in an open-door scene. The epilogue also gives readers another glimpse of their bedroom life. The biggest part of this story though is the way both characters are surprised by finding someone they are completely compatible with and then fall fast and hard into a swoon-y love. There is a quaich ceremony at their wedding reception that literally melted me. (My eyes were leaking, and that doesn’t happen.) There is also the very romantic scene at the end where they admit their love for each other that gave me all the feels. I can tell you now, this is going to be on my top reads list for 2023. It is everything I want in a romance.
I am voluntarily leaving this honest review after receiving an advance reader copy of the book.
January 13, 2023
Having read Ms.Nolan's work many times before i always look so forward to picking up more of her books! The synopsis for this one caught my eye instantly and i knew i had to read it next. I picked it up and got right into the Kilted Hearts world! I so enjoyed this story!
Raleigh and Kyla's journey captured my attention quickly! Raleigh heads to Vegas after his world his shaken up. Kyla is trying to save her family home. They both agree marriage of convenience to help each another out. Can Raleigh and Kyla handle the real between them?
I really liked the way i got into Raleigh and Kyla's story right from the get go and the way they were brought into each other's lives. I enjoyed getting to see these two tackle their situation as well as their feelings. I found both Kyla and Raleigh to be relatable, especially when it came to things they were dealing with in their lives. I could picture their journey clearly in my mind. I loved the interactions between Kyla and Raleigh, the uniqueness of their story, and the great chemistry between them.
It was fun getting into the Kilted Hearts world for the first time!
With Cowboy in a Kilt, Ms.Nolan has created such a good read with feels! I am so looking forward to diving back into this world with the second installment, Grump in a Kilt!
*I volunteered to read and review a copy of this book from Wildfire Marketing Solutions / the author*
Raleigh and Kyla's journey captured my attention quickly! Raleigh heads to Vegas after his world his shaken up. Kyla is trying to save her family home. They both agree marriage of convenience to help each another out. Can Raleigh and Kyla handle the real between them?
I really liked the way i got into Raleigh and Kyla's story right from the get go and the way they were brought into each other's lives. I enjoyed getting to see these two tackle their situation as well as their feelings. I found both Kyla and Raleigh to be relatable, especially when it came to things they were dealing with in their lives. I could picture their journey clearly in my mind. I loved the interactions between Kyla and Raleigh, the uniqueness of their story, and the great chemistry between them.
It was fun getting into the Kilted Hearts world for the first time!
With Cowboy in a Kilt, Ms.Nolan has created such a good read with feels! I am so looking forward to diving back into this world with the second installment, Grump in a Kilt!
*I volunteered to read and review a copy of this book from Wildfire Marketing Solutions / the author*
January 13, 2023
Raleigh Beaumont is an honorable man. He’s patient, kind, and loving. And he’s just lost everything. He meets a woman in a Vegas bar who asks him to play a game of poker. He agrees and, in the process, finds himself the new owner of a Scottish estate.
Kyla McKean is a very practical woman. She knows there is obligation and responsibility, and will not shirk from either. She is trustworthy, loyal, and stubborn. She will do her duty no matter the cost to save her land.
This was a delightful read. I loved the way Ms. Nolan brings two kindred spirits together who understand what losing a family legacy means, and want to prevent it. This was a lovely enjoyable slow-burn romance, with a dash of forced proximity, fake marriage, and single bed included. The interactions between Raleigh and Kyla were effortless and the progression to intimacy was natural. I liked meeting the other townspeople and am looking forward to their stories too. I also read the short prequel story ‘Jilting the Kilt’ which gives a touching back story to why Afton (the previous estate owner) decided she wanted to lose the estate in a card game. It gave me a good understanding of the tension and urgency behind the decisions of Kyla and Raleigh and why Afton chose Raleigh as the new Lochmara owner. I received an arc of this book, and this is my honest and voluntary review.
Kyla McKean is a very practical woman. She knows there is obligation and responsibility, and will not shirk from either. She is trustworthy, loyal, and stubborn. She will do her duty no matter the cost to save her land.
This was a delightful read. I loved the way Ms. Nolan brings two kindred spirits together who understand what losing a family legacy means, and want to prevent it. This was a lovely enjoyable slow-burn romance, with a dash of forced proximity, fake marriage, and single bed included. The interactions between Raleigh and Kyla were effortless and the progression to intimacy was natural. I liked meeting the other townspeople and am looking forward to their stories too. I also read the short prequel story ‘Jilting the Kilt’ which gives a touching back story to why Afton (the previous estate owner) decided she wanted to lose the estate in a card game. It gave me a good understanding of the tension and urgency behind the decisions of Kyla and Raleigh and why Afton chose Raleigh as the new Lochmara owner. I received an arc of this book, and this is my honest and voluntary review.
January 14, 2023
I didn’t think a Scottish village could fill the boots of Kait Nolan’s Wishful, MS and Eden’s Ridge, TN. Well, lo and behold, I believe Glenlaig, Scotland is my new favorite place to hang out and enjoy good times with endearing villagers, surrounded by beautiful countryside! And I strongly recommend reading the delicious and free prequel, Jilting The Kilt, before settling in for a very satisfying read with Cowboy in a Kilt, to fully experience why and how Afton Lennox takes the nuclear option to get herself out of the crosshairs of a 300 year old marriage pact. Her decision puts Raleigh Beaumont squarely in those crosshairs, and a wild and crazy adventure begins when he takes his hardworking ranching experience and love of horses and down-to-earth people with him to Scotland. When he learns fiery redheaded Kyla MacKean is his partner under the bizarre marriage pact, he must decide whether to accept her offer to buy him out and return to Texas, or marry her and make a new life as a Scottish Baron. Not only is this story a great romance with an HEA, but it opens up a whole new Kait Nolan world of possibilities for future love stories in Glenlaig! I couldn’t put this book down before I finished and I’m looking forward to future adventures with people I’ve already come to love!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 8, 2023
Cowboy in a Kilt by Kait Nolan, book one in her Kilted Hearts series, is a wonderful, heartwarming story featuring Raleigh and Kyla as they struggle to save their land as they are given the chance for a new beginning. Texan Raleigh Beaumont was devastated during the reading of his father’s will, he learns that the homestead that had belonged to his deceased mother, was going to be inherited by his father’s wife, leaving Raleigh without anything; inheritance, home or horse. His friend Zeke takes him to Vegas so he can forget his troubles and figure out what to do next, he unexpectedly meets Afton, wins a poker game and becomes the new Baron of Lochmara, in Scotland. Grateful for the chance of a new beginning, he’s ready to embrace his new life. Unfortunately, Raleigh didn’t know that in order to keep his land, he and his neighbor, Kyla, have to abide a marriage pack made 300 years ago. Raleigh and Kyla are actually more alike and have so much in common with their love and appreciation of the land. Raleigh offers Kyla an easy way out: they have a marriage of convenience for a month, separate, and divorce within a year. What neither expected were the chemistry and attraction between them as they spend time together, exploring the land, meeting the tenants, finding a baby cow, living in close proximity, and neither being honest, telling the other about their true feelings; until they do.
Ms. Nolan wrote a wonderful, intriguing, and heartwarming story that should not be missed. She provided a tale with magnetic attraction, sizzling chemistry, clever banter, and secondary characters deserving of their own story, helping Raleigh and Kyla save their land, end a 300-year old marriage pact, and find a forever love. I highly recommend Cowboy in a Kilt to other readers, but recommend reading the prequel, Jilting the Kilt prior as it will give the reader a better understanding of the marriage pack
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
Ms. Nolan wrote a wonderful, intriguing, and heartwarming story that should not be missed. She provided a tale with magnetic attraction, sizzling chemistry, clever banter, and secondary characters deserving of their own story, helping Raleigh and Kyla save their land, end a 300-year old marriage pact, and find a forever love. I highly recommend Cowboy in a Kilt to other readers, but recommend reading the prequel, Jilting the Kilt prior as it will give the reader a better understanding of the marriage pack
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
January 10, 2023
Kilted Hearts #1
Raleigh Beaumont should have inherited everything when his father died but instead it went to his wife who was selling everything to a developer. Land, stock, the house and even his horse who he loved, this was his birthright and it was taken from him. So when his friend insists he go to Vegas with him, he does. After a few drinks he's approached by a young woman and he tells her his story about the ranch and she shares some of her story and she invites him to a poker game. He ends up winning. He is now the new Baron of Lochmara in Scotland, he has the title, the lands and all that goes with it. He's shocked and can't quite believe it.
Kyla MacKean, an heiress has a castle that is crumbling with lots of debt and she is just trying to make ends meet. Her brother is supposed to marry the owner of Lochmara but she goes missing and then they find out what happened. That means she is now the one that must marry the owner. Raleigh is now in Scotland and at Lochmara and has been told of this 300 yr old agreement, a little shocked by it all but when he and Kyla talk and work out an agreement they go ahead with it.
Everything seems so easy in the beginning, what's a year but then things start to change. They both get more than they had bargained for.
4 stars
Raleigh Beaumont should have inherited everything when his father died but instead it went to his wife who was selling everything to a developer. Land, stock, the house and even his horse who he loved, this was his birthright and it was taken from him. So when his friend insists he go to Vegas with him, he does. After a few drinks he's approached by a young woman and he tells her his story about the ranch and she shares some of her story and she invites him to a poker game. He ends up winning. He is now the new Baron of Lochmara in Scotland, he has the title, the lands and all that goes with it. He's shocked and can't quite believe it.
Kyla MacKean, an heiress has a castle that is crumbling with lots of debt and she is just trying to make ends meet. Her brother is supposed to marry the owner of Lochmara but she goes missing and then they find out what happened. That means she is now the one that must marry the owner. Raleigh is now in Scotland and at Lochmara and has been told of this 300 yr old agreement, a little shocked by it all but when he and Kyla talk and work out an agreement they go ahead with it.
Everything seems so easy in the beginning, what's a year but then things start to change. They both get more than they had bargained for.
4 stars
January 16, 2023
Finding the Legacy
How a disinherited Texas rancher becomes the heir apparent to a Scottish barony, an estate and all the debt that comes with it. A well written, charming and engrossing story. Raleigh Beaumont moves from Texas to Scotland to try his hand at running the estate he's won. He doesn't realize ownership comes with a bride. Kyla Mackean is willing to do most anything to save her centuries old estate, even marry a stranger. So begins the clever, heartfelt story of two people trying to fulfill life goals, and discovering how much better they can do together. Delightful tale of how two divergent cultures can still be similar, and how people, at their heart, are the same. Warm and fuzzy, sweet story of unexpected love found.
How a disinherited Texas rancher becomes the heir apparent to a Scottish barony, an estate and all the debt that comes with it. A well written, charming and engrossing story. Raleigh Beaumont moves from Texas to Scotland to try his hand at running the estate he's won. He doesn't realize ownership comes with a bride. Kyla Mackean is willing to do most anything to save her centuries old estate, even marry a stranger. So begins the clever, heartfelt story of two people trying to fulfill life goals, and discovering how much better they can do together. Delightful tale of how two divergent cultures can still be similar, and how people, at their heart, are the same. Warm and fuzzy, sweet story of unexpected love found.
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