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Highland Hall #2

Heirs and Graces at Highland Hall

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A 💕 heartwarming 💕 and escapist romantic read, perfect for fans of Veronica Henry, Julie Shackman and Eliza J. Scott! 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 ✨ Some things can’t be easily left behind, especially the heart... ✨

Rebecca Barker thought she'd left Highland Hall – and a certain brooding Scotsman – firmly in the past. Back in London, her life is orderly, focused and heartbreak-free. Long-distance love didn’t work, and she's convinced it was the right call.

But when beloved laird Fergus passes away, his will contains one final a personal request for Bex to return to the Highlands and help settle his affairs. Reluctantly, Bex finds herself back at the estate that once felt like home. But returning means facing Duncan – her ex – and the sparks that never quite went out.

As they navigate old wounds, village gossip and Fergus’s final wishes, it becomes clear that the unfinished business Bex must deal with in the Highlands isn’t just her work. Can she keep things strictly professional this time? Or, with a big Burns Night party approaching, will the romantic Scottish air weave its magic once more?

Don’t miss this BRAND NEW instalment in Hannah Lynn's beloved and heartwarming Highland Hall series!

Praise for Hannah

Heartfelt and engrossing - you’ll fall in love with Wildflower Lock.’ Fay Keenan

'A delightful, well written tale, full of wonderful characters in a charming setting. I loved it!' Katie Fforde

'Another wonderful adventure with Daisy and Theo! ... Its happy but realistic, swoony but down to earth, and downright delightful.' ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Reader Review

'A thoroughly good read, very entertaining and a series I hope will continue. Five sparkling stars and my recommendation.' ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Reader Review

'This is a really beautiful cosy read. I found the location and the houseboat to be stunning ... The characters where fantastic I honestly loved them all. ' ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Reader Review

244 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 2, 2025

109 people are currently reading
54 people want to read

About the author

Hannah M. Lynn

50 books949 followers
Hannah Lynn is a multi award winning novelist. Publishing her first book, Amendments – a dark, dystopian speculative fiction novel, in 2015. Her second book, The Afterlife of Walter Augustus – a contemporary fiction novel with a supernatural twist – went on to win the 2018 Kindle Storyteller Award and the Independent Publishers Gold Medal for Best Adult Ebook.

Born in 1984, Hannah grew up in the Cotswolds, UK. After graduating from university, she spent 15 years as a teacher of physics, first in the UK and then Thailand, Malaysia, Austria and Jordan. It was during this time, inspired by the imaginations of the young people she taught, she began writing short stories for children, and later adult fiction.

With over 30 publications spanning a number of genres and translated into a dozen languages, Hannah has proven herself to be both an accomplished and prolific author.

Now settled back in the UK with her husband, daughter and clowder of cats, she spends her days writing romantic comedies and historical fiction. Her first historical fiction novel, Athena's Child, was also a 2020 Gold Medalist at the Independent Publishers Awards.

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5 stars
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76 (31%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
Profile Image for Ana.
149 reviews501 followers
October 26, 2025
I'm honestly so incredibly disappointed, I don't even know what to say.. I really enjoyed the first book, but I hated everything about this sequel, it ruined everything good, every single thing turned sour and I'm so mad right now. And that ending, that was the final insult, I thought something was wrong with my copy, you can't just end the book that abruptly, what was that???

Rebecca is back is Scotland, Fergus died and he requested for her to be present to help with his will. But, everything is different now, she and Duncan aren't together anymore, but the feelings never went away.. She's trying to solve the mystery surrounding the will and Kieron, the presumed heir, is there and sparks are flying, but is there still a chance for her and Duncan? Nothing is simple and some truths are about to come to light, changing everything.. 

I was trying really hard to figure out how to say everything that needed to be said, because I hate to be mean and my first instinct was to rate this one star and rant, but I just don't have the heart to do it.. I still love the village and I did enjoy book one, but this book ruined it completely for me.. 
I'm honestly not a fan of Rebecca anymore, her back and forth made me dislike her so much and Duncan was incredibly frustrating. Kieron was such an unnecessary and quite honestly, a distasteful addition. I hated every moment of that storyline. Why was that necessary?? The direction of the story was so disappointing, I started hating everyone and everything. At this point I don't even care how the story ends. 
I know this is dramatic, but I literally started crying, because I was so disappointed I couldn't handle it, the sheer anger and frustration got to me.. I'm not sure how we got here, but nothing about this was good! And to end the story just like that was a slap in the face. Is it really necessary to drag it out this much, all it did is lose me. 

The only good thing that happened was that I was right about the mystery, I knew it in book one. Everything else, just no.. The setting is still beautiful though and Ruby was the only one I loved. That second star is for her and her only, she's the best dog ever!!! 
And while I hated the direction the story took, you might like it a lot more than I did, so don't let me deter you. I still love the author, this just wasn't for me..

*Thank you to Netgalley and to Boldwood Books for providing me with an ARC.*
Profile Image for Linda Rhead.
139 reviews
September 27, 2025
I was all set to give this new book by Hannah Lynn four stars until I got to the very last page, that last page turned my potentially glowing review on its head. I was given the opportunity to read a preview copy by the publisher in return for an honest review, what I’m about to write wasn’t at all what I had expected to write, in fact I still can’t quite believe it . There I was enjoying the read, getting to know the characters and being more and more drawn into the story , when it suddenly just stopped . The End . I even considered I’d been given an unfinished copy , but no it really was the end . I was so disappointed, it was as though the writer had simply given up, run out of words , because there was absolutely no conclusion whatsoever. It wasn’t one of those where you want a book to carry on because you’re so engrossed in it, I wanted it to continue so that I could know what happened, there was no explanation, no understanding of what was happening , it’s not like it ended on a cliffhanger, it just ended! I get that the author may be intending a sequel, I understand that , but I was left feeling quite bereft and hugely disappointed. In short I felt cheated!
Profile Image for Joanna.
323 reviews5 followers
October 28, 2025
2.75 rounded to 3 stars for me.
Rebecca Barker ,Bex for friends is back at Highland Hall. Laird Fergus passes away,and Bex needs to help Gordon the lawyer to settle his will.New handsome laird Kieron is ready to claim his inheritance,but it seems that there may be another heir.Add Bex ex Duncan,and she's over her head with complicated feelings and work.

Will Rebecca resolve the mystery and find the rightful heir?

It was quick and a ok read.I didn't know it's part of the series,and while it can be read as standalone, I would like to know what happened before between characters.Also the ending shows that there will be more to the story,as it just end.I have mixed feelings about Bex,her constant undecided thoughts toward Duncan after a while grow tiresome.The drama was good,and I liked Duncan half sister,the mystery was very interesting but not that surprising for me.I expected more of romance and tension.Still I would like to read book 3 in series just to know how it all ends.

Thank you netgalley and publisher for arc,my review is honest and my own.
Profile Image for Ann-Maree.
1,112 reviews9 followers
October 25, 2025
Heirs and Graces at Highland Hall
by Hannah Lynn

This is the second book in the captivating Highland Hall series, which serves as a spin-off from the popular Wildflower Lock series. The story revolves around Bex Barker, an accountant with a keen sense for numbers, who was previously sent by her demanding boss to assist the laird of Highland Hall with his financial matters in the first book. Set over a year after the events of the previous book one, the story begins with a tonal shift—unfortunately moving from the joy of a happy ending to the sombre undertones of loss. Despite my initial reservations about this transition, I was eager to delve back into the lives of the characters I had come to love in the first book.

At the heart of this story are Rebecca Barker and Duncan MacDuffrey, a couple whose once-bright romance had been the talk of the village. They are now living separate lives: Duncan continues to work at Highland Hall, while Bex has settled in London, pursuing her beloved job.

However, with the passing of their beloved laird, Fergus MacTavish, everything changes. Fergus has left behind a heartfelt request for Bex to return to the picturesque Highlands and assist in settling his affairs. This request adds an emotional weight to her return. Hesitant but compelled, Bex finds herself back at the grand estate, which once felt like a second home filled with cherished memories.

But returning to Highland Hall means confronting Duncan—her ex-lover—and the unresolved feelings that linger between them, sparking both tension and nostalgia.

While I appreciated the story's emotional depth, I sensed that it lacked some of the enchanting romance that characterised the first book. The reunion of beloved characters offered a comforting nostalgia, and overall, the story was a pleasant and easy read. As with the first book, the conclusion felt surprisingly abrupt, leaving readers on a cliffhanger just as the plot was gaining traction. This may be indicative of the author's signature style, designed to create anticipation for the next instalment, but it nonetheless leaves the reader in a state of frustration! I am eagerly looking forward to the next book in the series, hoping that the wait will not be too lengthy.

While this book featured more drama, mystery and secrets and less romance than its predecessor, this shift in focus is not necessarily negative. The author’s engaging writing style ensures that the story flows smoothly, allowing readers to become fully immersed in the unfolding drama of Highland Hall.

I appreciate the overall story, but I feel that including a funeral or at least mentioning one could have provided additional depth to the story. It could enhance the emotional impact and help readers connect more with the characters’ experiences.

Did I like this book? YES

Did I skip pages in this book? NO

Did I finish this book? YES
Profile Image for Yvonne.
1,759 reviews136 followers
November 3, 2025
After reading and really enjoying the first book in this series, I was definitely eager to read this 2nd book. It did not disappoint.

Rebecca had the best time when she was sent up to Scotland to sort out the accounts for Fergus. A curmudgeonly old man on the surface, but with a heart of gold underneath. It was also where she met and fell for Duncan, the groundsman. The distance between the two was never going to work. They split, and that was the end of it.

When the news of Fergus's death came, it was upsetting, but he had also asked that Rebecca work with his lawyer to sort out the will and the castle. There is one who is an obvious heir, Kieron, who has plans for the castle and his role as the new Laird of the manor. But there is something about making sure that he is the only heir.

Even though it has been a while since I read the first book, I soon found myself back in a place I remembered with the characters that made the story feel welcoming. So, as Rebecca is welcomed back into the Scottish village, the reader is also.

The characters are memorable, and soon, getting caught up with things was easy to reconnect. The new face is Kieron, likeable, but brash, and I felt that he was flaunting his new role. But with all the paperwork to go through, Rebecca and Gordon found themselves wondering if there is more to Fergus and his past than they first realised. The community is tight-lipped, there is some drinking involved, some late nights and a rescue before all the other answers are finally revealed.

So a romance, rom-com with a mystery that was wonderful reading over the course of an afternoon. Heart-warming and with a feel of something in the past coming out, shocks, a couple of twists, and all wrapped up wonderfully. With more to come, I think there are various options for the author to go with this series. Looking forward to more, and I would be very happy to recommend this book.
Profile Image for Laura-Elise Bishop.
Author 5 books19 followers
November 9, 2025
I was so excited to read the second part of this series and I was gripped from the first page! Bex and Duncan have broken up (oh no!) but they are still in love with each other.
When Bex gets some sad news about Fergus, she heads back to Scotland, crossing paths with a very handsome stranger, and receiving some very unexpected news about Fergus's heir.
Brilliant writing, pacing and secondary characters as always. Pure escapism to the Highlands, with a second chance romance, a possible new love interest and a mystery to solve. Perfect with a hot drink, a snuggly blanket and a stormy afternoon!
Profile Image for Lucy C.
369 reviews54 followers
November 5, 2025
absolutely loved this. such a fab series
Profile Image for Lesesucht.
46 reviews
November 23, 2025
Rebecca Barker thought she left the Highlands and her love Duncan behind her as she wanted to achieve her goal getting the corner office and the position she so hard worked for.
As she didn´t want Duncan to leave behind what he loves most, a long distance partnership is not working long term ending all while they still loved each other seems to be the perfect solution. The only downside is that she feels miserable.
When she get the new that Fergus the laird from Highland Hall passed away and wanted her to help settle his affairs. So she is on the way back to the Highland when she meets a nice stranger at the airport. As it turns out he is Fergus nephew and his only relative left who will inherit everything.
Or is there somebody else as the wording in Fergus will indicates there might be another heir.
As if this would not be enough to keep Bex busy, no she must accept that she is still high over heels in love with Duncan and she is asking herself if she made the right decision to end their relationship.


This is the second book but I had no issued reading it without knowing the first book in this series.
The story is predictable and right from the start it was clear to me what will happen. So normally I would give this a 3 star rating but as I absolutely loved the Scottish vibes in here this gets a 4 star rating from me.

On the on hand I understood Bex that she wanted so desperately to achieve her goal to get the position she worked for since years. On the other hand when she knows the relationship with Duncan was much more than she ever had, is it really the better decision to leave your love behind and to concentrate on your job? I am not so sure hence I had here some problems to fully understand her. Also some of her actions in the book I felt very naive from her end especially when she spent so much time already in Scotland and is aware of the weather and it dangers.
Duncan I really liked how he is outlined here. He is a man to my liking.

Here is a cliffhanger and lots of things are hanging in the air and the wrap up will be done in the next book here. This ending came a bit fast for my licking and the story ended a bit abrupt but I assume this is due to the fact that a 3rd book will come.

Still it is nicely written and I enjoyed the book.
Profile Image for Anna Fowler.
77 reviews3 followers
October 23, 2025
Please check out my blog at: https://simbasbookreview.com/blog-posts/

Hannah Lynn wrote the perfect cozy little romance for fans of the Scottish loch (and those who want to cozy up and dream about falling in love with a handsome Scott). She brings the characters and story of Rebecca Barker and Duncan MacDuffrey to life in a fresh, yet masterful way. As this is the second book in a series, readers might want to consider her first book, though not necessary.

Rebecca and Duncan had met previously when Rebecca was called to Highland Hall by the late Laird Fergus to help get all his accounts in order. Rebecca and the groundskeeper Duncan hit it off and enjoy a special romance while in Scotland. When Rebecca moves back to London, practical Bex (her nickname throughout the book) is unable to see a future for them with so many obstacles and breaks it off. This does not mean she does not still have feelings for him. These feelings are magnifie when she is called back to Highland Hall at the passing of Fergus the beloved laird. Lynn artfully and masterfully weaves in a new character, the Laird's nephew and presumed heir. Brex, having unknowingly met him on the plane ride over to Scotland, fancies herself in love with him while trying to forget Duncan.

Duncan and Brex are thrown together as Bex is staying with his sister. Not only that, one of the Lairds beloved dogs, is ecstatic to have Bex back. Can Duncan and Brex find their way back to each other when it doesn't seem practical on paper? Readers also will be caught up in a decades old mystery, as they try to search for the rightful heir as mentioned in the late Fergus's will. Hannah Lynn brings this story together beautifully and masterfully, and readers will fall and love and be rooting for Bex and Duncan. Simba Gives this book three paws.
2,358 reviews86 followers
November 2, 2025
📖 Title: Heirs and Graces at Highland Hall-Highland Hall #2

✍🏾 Author: Hannah Lynn- I read Kilts and Kisses at Highland Hall and gave it 4⭐

📅Publication date: 11-2-25 | Read : 11-1-25

📃 Format: e-Book 248 pgs.

Genre:
*Romance
*Christmas
*Adult Fic

Tropes:
*2nd chance romance
*love triangle
*inheritance
*pet friendly
*hidden truths
*forbidden romance

👆🏾POV: 3rd person

⚠️TW: death of loved one,

🌎 Setting: Scotland

Summary: When Fergus dies, Bex is called back by his lawyer to manage his estate. It's been 3 months since her breakup with Duncan who was close to Fergus. Kieron comes to town as the presumed heir to HH and flirts with Bex.Her job is to validate Kieron's claim to HH while questioning her love for Duncan.


👩🏾 Heroine: Rebecca "Bex" Parker- an accountant/estate finances/senior manager

👨🏾 Hero: Duncan-groundskeeper @ Highland Hall (HH) castle

🎭 Other Characters:

* Fergus-Laird of HH
*Kieron-Duncan's nephew, heir to HH
*Lorna-Duncan's step sister, her mother Carrie
*Gordon-Fergus's lawyer assigned to carry out his will
*Angus-Duncan's grandfather, had feud w/ Fergus
*Nigel-Bex's boss in London
*Niall & Eilidh-Bex's friends, Eilidh-a seamstress
*Moira-an old villager
*Roddy-a villager
*Ruby-Fergus's dog becomes Bex's

🤔 My Thoughts: I enjoyed this Scottish holiday read. Bex and Duncan had unfinished business both regretting their breakup. Kieron added humor and conflict between Bex and Duncan. The hidden truth was obvious, but Bex and Gordon's investigation blew up HH. It ended on a cliffhanger so I want book #3 now!


Rating: 4/5 ✨
Spice level: 1/5 🌶️ kissing

🙏🏾Thanks to NetGalley, Boldwood Books, and Hannah Lynn for this ARC! I voluntarily give my honest review, and all opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Emma Ashley.
1,364 reviews49 followers
September 24, 2025
❤️ Blurb -
A 💕 heartwarming 💕 and escapist romantic read, perfect for fans of Veronica Henry, Julie Shackman and Eliza J. Scott! 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 ✨ Some things can’t be easily left behind, especially the heart... ✨
Rebecca Barker thought she'd left Highland Hall – and a certain brooding Scotsman – firmly in the past. Back in London, her life is orderly, focused and heartbreak-free. Long-distance love didn’t work, and she's convinced it was the right call.
But when beloved laird Fergus passes away, his will contains one final a personal request for Bex to return to the Highlands and help settle his affairs. Reluctantly, Bex finds herself back at the estate that once felt like home. But returning means facing Duncan – her ex – and the sparks that never quite went out.
As they navigate old wounds, village gossip and Fergus’s final wishes, it becomes clear that the unfinished business Bex must deal with in the Highlands isn’t just her work. Can she keep things strictly professional this time? Or, with a big Burns Night party approaching, will the romantic Scottish air weave its magic once more?
💜 Review-
Even though I hadn't read the first book in the series, I still enjoyed the story and I soon understood what was going on. This was such an enjoyable and heartwarming read, I couldn't put it down and I read it in one sitting. There was a great cast of characters and I loved the place settings in the story. I highly recommend it and I look forward to reading more by the author.
💝 Thank you to Netgalley, the author and publisher for my arc ebook copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Mariasreadingjourney.
48 reviews1 follower
November 29, 2025
I really enjoyed reading the book, even though I was a bit confused at first that it started after the breakup. However, after finishing it, I realised that it’s the second part in a series, so everything made a lot more sense. As the third book will be released next year, I'm really looking forward to it.

Seeing Rebecca reconnect with Duncan was sweet to watch, especially the role Ruby played in it. Their hurt was really tangible, and it broke my heart that they couldn’t overcome it. There’s a lot of chemistry between them and they fit together really well, so I hope they’ll get their happy ending. Especially with the lovely Scottish community and the plot twist at the end — I think Bex could really get used to life far away from London, but we’ll see.

I don’t really like Kieron and can’t fully understand why Bex would consider him as a potential partner. I know they’re both from the city and he’s charming and all, but some of his traits are a no-go. The fact that he doesn’t like dogs inside the house, even though Bex loves Ruby, was the first warning sign for me. If he sees animals only for their usefulness or tasks and not for their loveliness, then that’s an issue. In addition to this, he also talks down to people like Duncan and doesn’t treat them respectfully, even though Duncan did so much for his uncle, the late laird. I don’t like people who behave this way and think they’re better than others just because their social position might be higher. So yeah, I don’t really know why Bex was so torn between the two men.

8 out of 10
Profile Image for Kate.
62 reviews
October 13, 2025
Thanks to Net Galley for this advance copy. This is the second book in the Highland Hall series, which is in turn a 'spin off' of the Wildflower Lock series. Bex is an accountant who was sent up by her boss to help the laird of Highland Hall with his accounts in the last Highland Hall book. Her plan was to do the job as quickly as possible and get back to her hoped for promotion in London. However, the community have ideas, and by the time she has finished, she has a group of lifelong friends and a relationship with groundskeeper, Duncan. However, a long distance relationship didn't work out. Now though, Fergus has died and he has asked her to go back to help put his affairs in order. On the way, she bumps into Fergus' nephew, Kieron, and Bex finds herself in a dilemma being pulled between the Highland life represented by Duncan and a corner office and London life with Kieron, all the while trying to find the 'true heir' hinted at in Fergus' will.

All the books in this extended series are gentle, easy reading with likeable characters and stunning countryside, both well described. This is proper escapist fiction, where you know all the knotty problems and dilemmas will be wrapped up by the end of the book. And herein lies my major criticism of the book. That is, it is not tied up neatly with a bow, instead, it ends on a cliff hanger. This always does seem a bit of a swizz, almost forcing the reader to buy the next book, which I probably will, being a completer/finisher type, but it leaves a sour taste in the mouth... Star removed for the incomplete ending.
Profile Image for Nicola Ray.
131 reviews11 followers
October 17, 2025
This is the second book in the series, and while I enjoyed it, I felt it lacked some of the romance that made the first one special. Rebecca Barker thought she had left Highland Hall—and a certain brooding Scotsman—firmly in her past. Back in London, her life is organized, focused, and free from heartbreak. Long-distance love didn’t work, and she’s convinced she made the right choice, although something nags at her about this lost love. However, when beloved laird Fergus passes away, his will includes one final, personal request for Bex to return to the Highlands to help settle his affairs. Reluctantly, Bex finds herself back at the estate that once felt like home. But returning means facing Duncan—her ex—and the lingering sparks between them. As they navigate old wounds, village gossip, and Fergus’s final wishes, it becomes clear that the unfinished business Bex must address isn’t just her work.

This is a fun read and I was pleased to revisit the characters but it did feel like this instalment was slightly lacking, probably because it finishes with no resolution. Lynn is clearly setting the scene for a further instalment but I felt flat after I finished this book as it ends rather abruptly. If you have read book 1 you can probably guess how the mystery will be resolved but it was slightly disappointing. With thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for a copy of the arc in exchange for a review.
Profile Image for *BookarazziBookNook* Kristin B.
410 reviews3 followers
November 3, 2025
“𝙄𝙩 𝙬𝙖𝙨 𝙣𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝙖𝙗𝙤𝙪𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙢𝙤𝙣𝙚𝙮. 𝙄𝙩 𝙬𝙖𝙨 𝙖𝙗𝙤𝙪𝙩 𝙝𝙤𝙣𝙤𝙪𝙧, 𝙛𝙖𝙢𝙞𝙡𝙮 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙡𝙤𝙫𝙚.”

𝗣𝘂𝗯 𝗗𝗮𝘁𝗲: 11/2/25

𝗙𝗼𝗿𝗺𝗮𝘁:ebook 📖

𝗦𝘂𝗺𝗺𝗮𝗿𝘆: Bex returns to Scotland after her long distance breakup with Duncan, the groundskeeper at Highland Hall.
Grieving the loss of the late Laird to the property, Bex and the trust’s lawyer discover a mysterious twist in the final will.

𝗛𝗶𝗴𝗵𝗹𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀:
🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 Second Chance Romance
🐑 Cozy Winter
🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 Love Triangle
🐑 Found (again) Family
🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 Scottish Highlands

𝗠𝘆 𝗧𝗵𝗼𝘂𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀: The story takes us back to the Scottish Highlands and Loch Dorrach with the same lovable crew from Kilts and Kisses at Highland Hall. The second chance romance was everything you’d expect from that trope. Angsty, and sweet at the same time. I liked the “mystery” element of the story even though it was obvious, it still added a little extra fun along the way. And Ruby the dog once again stole every scene she was in, I’m a sucker for pets in books.
The middle dragged more than I prefer, and the ending wrapped up a little too fast, but you can tell it’s paving the way for the third book. Even with those bumps, it was a cute, low-drama read that made me smile, and I’ll definitely keep going with the series.

𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 3.5/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️💫

*Thank you @NetGalley and @BoldwoodBooks for sending this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.


#HeirsandGracesatHighlandHall #NetGalley #BoldwoodBookClubVIP #BoldwoodBookClub
Profile Image for Amber.
204 reviews1 follower
November 9, 2025
Thank you to Boldwood books and Net Galley for the ARC.

We pick up over a year after the first book, and a lot has changed. Bex and Duncan have been broken up for about three months after their long-distance relationship and different goals pulled them apart. Bex is still heartbroken and trying to move on when she gets a tragic call from her boss — Fergus, the laird of Highland Hall, has unexpectedly passed away. She’s asked to return to help sort out his affairs.

On her way back to the small Scottish town, she literally bumps into Keiron — the supposed heir to the estate (though she doesn’t know that yet). There’s some instant chemistry between them, but not much comes of it.

Honestly, this book felt a little unnecessary to the story. The first book wrapped up nicely with a happy ending, and this sequel undoes a lot of that progress. There’s very little romance apart from the brief spark between Bex and Keiron, and Duncan is portrayed in a pretty negative light for most of the story — cold, dismissive, and even harsh at times. He only redeems himself right at the end with an apology and a renewed declaration of love.

I actually would’ve loved to see a book centered on some of the side characters instead — like Eilidh and Niall!

All that said, it’s still an easy read with that familiar Highland charm, and I’m curious to see where Hannah Lynn takes the story next. The ending is left wide open, clearly setting up for the third installment in the series. 3 stars.
Profile Image for Marie Yarwood.
95 reviews3 followers
October 5, 2025
I have been honoured to be gifted both books in this series and they are the perfect cosy romance to enjoy with a hot chocolate ( a favourite of the Laird’s)

When Bex Barker get summoned back to Highland Hall without knowing why,
she ventures off to the castle not sure how things will be when she sees her ex Duncan. She receives a shock when she is told that beloved Fergus, Laird of the Castle has passed away…. everyone thought Duncan would’ve rung her but that is not the case….
She heads upto the Castle to meet with the Lawyer who will go through the Will but comes face to face with the ‘new Laird’ instead. When the Lawyer arrives and requests to speak to her in private before they
begin the proceedings she follows him into the room and is given the Will to read, Bex is unsure of why she has to read it before it’s properly heard by all mentioned but there seemed to be an anomaly, somethings awry and she needs to find it before anyone else reads the Will itself - the question is can she do it without being found out?
She also needs to keep her heart under control with two dishy gents both pulling at her heartstrings and both just as jealous as each other. What with a snowstorm, a Burns Night Party and a testosterone battle going on around the castle, this will be a difficult task to do for sure.
Profile Image for Leanne.
684 reviews64 followers
September 28, 2025
If you’re craving a cozy escape to the Scottish Highlands with a side of romantic tension and village gossip, this one’s a treat. Heirs and Graces at Highland Hall brings us back to the estate where hearts were once broken, and maybe—just maybe—ready to be mended.

Rebecca Barker thought she’d left Highland Hall (and Duncan, the brooding Scotsman) behind for good. But when beloved laird Fergus passes away, she’s pulled back into the world she tried to forget. What follows is a gentle, heartwarming story of second chances, old wounds, and the kind of love that lingers like mist over the loch.

Hannah Lynn’s writing is breezy and comforting, with just enough sparkle to keep things interesting. The setting is pure escapism—Highland charm, a big Burns Night bash, and all the emotional messiness that comes with revisiting the past. It’s romantic without being saccharine, and the characters feel like people you’d want to share a dram with.

Perfect for fans of Veronica Henry and Julie Shackman, this is a lovely autumn read to curl up with when the nights draw in and you’re in the mood for something tender, funny, and full of heart.

Thank you to Hannah Lynn, the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC.
Profile Image for Carla.
51 reviews
October 9, 2025
I was, and still am, delighted to get a pre-approved ARC of this book. It took me a while to get to it, but I've just done it and it just took a little over five hours to get it all read and... There are things going on, that's true.
The book is good, tho it feels like those trailers that are both a "previously in" followed by a quick two minutes sum up of all the fun of what came before and then little hints at what's to come next. Which isn't inherently bad, it just makes this a quick read to get ready for what's yet to be published.
In terms of content, I must say I just knew... Maybe it's just me and my "I must go over all crazy possibilities so I'm always right" strike but... Yeah, I knew.
But well, Kieron is a big city ass, Duncan's his merry-mopping self and Rubby is playing a strange cupid-third-wheel role but, yeah, overall it's a good book if you didn't come here expecting this to be a full second and third act. In terms of cheesy sappy movies, first book was the first hour; this felt like the thirty minutes drama leading up to the 45min ending... So, let's pray we get a great ending (and to that I add that I get my hands on it a bit earlier cause now I'm invested and I need to see if this is a HEA or THE HEA).
Profile Image for Colin Bell.
1,068 reviews13 followers
November 1, 2025
This is the second book in the series and although it can be read as a standalone I would strongly suggest reading the first one before this so that you understand the whole story. Rebecca is asked to return to the Highlands upon the death of Fergus, the Laird that she had grown close to when she had been staying and working with him sorting out his accounts. The only problem is that she will meet Duncan, her ex, with whom she had split up when they couldn't make a long distance relationship work. Rebecca meets Fergus's lawyer, Gordon, to go through the will and finds that it isn't at all straightforward.
I loved the first book in the series and this one even more - I started reading "just a couple of chapters" when I went to bed and ended up staying up finishing the book in one session. I enjoy reading a series as you come to learn all the characters, so it is like meeting old friends. The only problem is that the story ends on a cliffhanger as the first one did, hence I would only give it 4.5* but, as ever, rounded up to 5*because it does deserve it. The only problem is that I now have to wait for the next book to come out.....
I received an advance copy of this book from the publisher through Netgalley, however this did not influence my review of the book.
Profile Image for Lyn Brownlie.
659 reviews15 followers
October 24, 2025
So good to be back at Highland Hall
After reading and loving Bex and Duncan in book one I was sad to see that their relationship had recently come to an end.
This story has Bex coming back to Scotland at the request of the late Laird so that she can help with the paperwork required to transfer over his estate.
Questions with the will arise and secrets are kept so that Bex and the lawyer can find their information that they require to move forward.
Also seeing Duncan again hurts them both as they still have feelings for each other.
This is a gorgeously sweet story of never ending love and whether these two can work things through and end up together again.
Some of the past is revealed which impacts on their future and this story ends before it can be worked out.
Love all the characters and such a great storyline, just wish it had not ended so suddenly without an outcome.
I’m eagerly awaiting the next instalment to find out the outcome.
Thank you NetGalley, Hannah Lynn and Boldwood Books for the opportunity to read this story.
Profile Image for Susanne.
444 reviews9 followers
November 1, 2025
Okaaay ... that's just not playing fair! This was great but the story's not finished yet and it ended on a bit of a cliffhanger following a massive reveal. Bex returned to London after her time at Highland Hall in book 1. Her and Duncan tried to continue their relationship but a few months before the start of book 2, they decide a long distance relationship isn't going to work regardless of how they feel about each other. Well, fate has other plans and Bex is asked to return to Highland Hall after Fergus, the laird, passes away, and she's to help sort out the will. A big surprise in the will, and Bex also gets to meet Fergus' nephew, Keiron, who takes a shine to her. Well, plenty of ups and downs between Bex and Duncan throughout her stay leading up to the Burns Night party ..... and now we have to wait for the next intallment to find out how the reveal pans out!
Thanks to Netgalley, Boldwood Books, and Hannah Lynn for the free ARC. All opinions are my own.
1,440 reviews
November 2, 2025
Rebecca “Bex” Barker’s reluctant journey back to Highland Hall to fulfill a beloved laird’s final request is both emotional and nostalgic, especially as she’s forced to confront her unresolved feelings for Duncan, the brooding Scotsman she left behind.
The story shines in its setting, with the author capturing the Highlands beautifully, with a rich sense of place and community that feels comforting. The chemistry between Bex and Duncan simmers quietly, built on their shared history and unfinished business, which made their interactions all the more believable and tender. However, I found the lack of resolution frustrating, with the ending feeling more like a pause than a conclusion, as though the story is holding its breath for a sequel. It doesn’t undo the charm of what came before, but it left me wanting more closure than the final pages provided.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Erin Hackerman.
17 reviews
October 13, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley, Boldwood Books and Hannah Lynn for an advanced copy of Heirs and Graces at Highland Hall.

I loved the small Scottish town setting — so quaint, cozy, and full of charm. The snowy landscape and close-l knit community made it the perfect winter escape. Bex returns from London after Fergus passes away, only to find herself face to face with her old flame, Duncan, and all those familiar feelings start to resurface. Then there’s Fergus’s nephew, who’s certainly attractive and wealthy, but Bex’s heart still seems torn.

In the end, the real winner of her heart (and mine!) was Ruby the dog — such a sweet touch. Overall, it’s a heartwarming read, but the cliffhanger ending knocked off a star for me.
Profile Image for Winona.
178 reviews5 followers
November 17, 2025
Thank you to Boldwood Books, NetGalley and author Hannah Lynn for this eARC

Oh man, this did not work for me.

It feels like most all the character development Bex went through in book 1 just disappeared in order to justify our couple breaking up so that Bex can then be brought back to solve the next mystery at Highland Hall - which wasn't a mystery at all as anyone who has read book one and has half a brain cell already knew the outcome by the end of book one.
Bex was so annoying in this - the constant back and forth, the indecisions and her absolute lack of common sense when it comes to judging someone's character?!
Duncan wasn't much better, acting like a sullen teenager instead of a grown man.
By the end none of the reasons why they broke up in the first place are solved, which makes sense as they were bulls*it in the first place!

This story should have been incorporated into the first book or been a novella without the whole breakup part of the story!
1,898 reviews5 followers
October 6, 2025
Rebecca had moved on from Highland Hill to return to her job and life in London. When called back to work after the passing of a friend, she must address her relationship with Duncan, which had ended. It was frustrating because they clearly still loved each other but the long distance caused by their jobs was a major issue. It was wonderful to visit the Highlands again and spend time with this delightful group of friends. A new character adds a lot of ambiguity and mystery. I love these books and the setting only adds to my desire to visit the Highlands. I read this on Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Shanice Williams.
26 reviews1 follower
October 22, 2025
This is the second book in the series, and the second book from the author I have read. I enjoyed the story but felt it was missing some of the romance from the first book. It was good to catch up on the lives of all the characters and this was a great, easy read. As with the first book in this series, the ending was quite abrupt and it felt like you were just getting into the story and then it ends on a cliffhanger. I believe this is maybe just the authors style and sets it up well for the next book in the series but does leave the reader frustrated! Can’t wait for the next one, hopefully won’t be too long a wait.

Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the pre-approved ARC.
Profile Image for Savannah.
6 reviews1 follower
October 23, 2025
This book was such a cozy and heartwarming read! From the very first chapter, Hannah Lynn pulled me straight into the world of Highland Hall, and even though I haven’t read the first novel yet - I didn’t have trouble connecting with the characters at all!

What really stood out to me were the characters. Each one had depth, personality, and their own little struggles that made them feel real. There’s a mix of humor, heartache, and hope throughout the story that kept me turning the pages. It had that perfect “Sunday afternoon with a cup of tea” vibe: comforting but still full of emotional moments.
Profile Image for Helen Arrand.
119 reviews
November 1, 2025
Heirs and Graces at Highland Hall by Hannah Lynn
⭐️⭐️⭐️

I requested this book as felt there was something missing at the end of the last book and felt it needed an epilogue. I was hoping this book would be like an extended epilogue. It was a good read but felt drawn out in places, I'd worked out the mystery early on and was just waiting for Bex to catch me up then that ending! Well it wasn't really an ending, I feel cheated out of my Happy Ever After. I will read book 3 as I need to know how it all ends.

I received a gifted copy of this book.
Thank you NetGalley and Boldwood Books.
This is my honest review.
Profile Image for Natalie Carr.
92 reviews1 follower
December 9, 2025
This was a cute romantic escape novel but without much romance tbh. Two characters who loved each other but for the same and purposes of potentially being a filler book, remained separated throughout most of the book. I rooted for them but at the same time Duncan was cruel and not very easy to root for.

This was a quick and easy to digest book, predictable to say the least but I still enjoyed. I guessed the inheritance thing back in the first book so happy to see I was correct. What was that ending????? It was so abrupt! I know there will be another book in the series but it was crazy how it just stopped like that
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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