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Cairncross Castle #2
How to Lose a Laird
Three unusually gifted sisters in Georgian Scotland must protect their family fortress from those who would steal it's rumored treasures—and their hearts—in this sweeping, adventure-filled, historical romance series for readers of India Holton, Lex Crocher, Manda Collins, and Evie Dunmore.
Despite their village's wild, insistent rumors, middle sister Freya MacLeod is no more a witch than her extraordinary siblings. Quiet and observant, she can't control the weather—although her magnificently skilled drawings often predict it. But now a very different sort of storm has besieged their home of Castle Cairncross. When Freya’s fearless younger sister disappears and is accused of murder, Freya is determined to prove her innocence—and bring her back. That means matching wits with a warrior—no matter how dangerous he may be . . .
A reluctant laird, Callum is glad to escape his clan’s intrigues. But helping to protect Castle Cairncross as a favor to a friend is far more difficult than he thought. Especially when the seemingly timid Freya eludes him, his battle-honed instincts—and enrages the village into putting a bounty on both their heads . . .
As they flee, Freya is stunned to see how caring—and vulnerable—Callum can be. . . . But he must keep his growing feelings for her hidden in order to honor a secret promise to his clan. Yet as their peril increases, they may find that battling side-by-side will uncover something more precious than gold . . .
Despite their village's wild, insistent rumors, middle sister Freya MacLeod is no more a witch than her extraordinary siblings. Quiet and observant, she can't control the weather—although her magnificently skilled drawings often predict it. But now a very different sort of storm has besieged their home of Castle Cairncross. When Freya’s fearless younger sister disappears and is accused of murder, Freya is determined to prove her innocence—and bring her back. That means matching wits with a warrior—no matter how dangerous he may be . . .
A reluctant laird, Callum is glad to escape his clan’s intrigues. But helping to protect Castle Cairncross as a favor to a friend is far more difficult than he thought. Especially when the seemingly timid Freya eludes him, his battle-honed instincts—and enrages the village into putting a bounty on both their heads . . .
As they flee, Freya is stunned to see how caring—and vulnerable—Callum can be. . . . But he must keep his growing feelings for her hidden in order to honor a secret promise to his clan. Yet as their peril increases, they may find that battling side-by-side will uncover something more precious than gold . . .
320 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 26, 2026
About the author
Anna Bradley
52 books871 followersAnna Bradley writes Regency and Georgian historical romance with heat, heart, and happily-ever-afters. Her books have received starred reviews from Publisher’s Weekly, and Library Journal, and her debut novel won the Romantic Times’ award for Best First Historical.
Anna is originally from New England, but now makes her home in Oregon, where she lives with her family, an overgrown English garden and a menagerie of wayward pets. If she isn’t writing, she’s probably hiding in a corner reading, chasing the dog, or herding the cats. Find Anna on the web at www.annabradley.net
Find Anna on the web at www.annabradley.net
Anna is originally from New England, but now makes her home in Oregon, where she lives with her family, an overgrown English garden and a menagerie of wayward pets. If she isn’t writing, she’s probably hiding in a corner reading, chasing the dog, or herding the cats. Find Anna on the web at www.annabradley.net
Find Anna on the web at www.annabradley.net
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
Did Not Finish
May 30, 2026I just can not
June 11, 2026
I received How To Lose a Laird in return for an honest review from TLC Book Tours.
The MacLeod sisters have been called witches by the towns people but that's as far from the truth as you can get. They are just a little different after all her sister has a gift with animals. When the town is after her sister thinking she murdered someone even Freya is forced to flee. Callum has been tasked with keeping her safe and drags her off to his home.
I love Freya she's such a great character who loves her sisters even if they tend to force her to leave her home. I love her chemistry with Callum he's jus the perfect partner for her. I felt like I was really able to connect with them both and cheered them on through the whole story. Neither one was looking for it but they can't deny the connection they have, it's sweet steamy and just works so well.
This is my first book by the author and I'm addicted. Each but in the series is a interconnecting standalone. I have not read read the first book with Cat's story but I think that's on the agenda. I need to be ready for out third sisters story which comes out next. I devoured this one in just one afternoon hooked from the first page till the last. I'm in my historical era and this one hit all the right spots. The author did a beautiful job of creating a story that captured my heart as well as imagination. I loved every moment of Freya and Callum's story. If you enjoy historical romance I highly recommend.
The MacLeod sisters have been called witches by the towns people but that's as far from the truth as you can get. They are just a little different after all her sister has a gift with animals. When the town is after her sister thinking she murdered someone even Freya is forced to flee. Callum has been tasked with keeping her safe and drags her off to his home.
I love Freya she's such a great character who loves her sisters even if they tend to force her to leave her home. I love her chemistry with Callum he's jus the perfect partner for her. I felt like I was really able to connect with them both and cheered them on through the whole story. Neither one was looking for it but they can't deny the connection they have, it's sweet steamy and just works so well.
This is my first book by the author and I'm addicted. Each but in the series is a interconnecting standalone. I have not read read the first book with Cat's story but I think that's on the agenda. I need to be ready for out third sisters story which comes out next. I devoured this one in just one afternoon hooked from the first page till the last. I'm in my historical era and this one hit all the right spots. The author did a beautiful job of creating a story that captured my heart as well as imagination. I loved every moment of Freya and Callum's story. If you enjoy historical romance I highly recommend.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
In How to Lose a Laird, the second installment of Anna Bradley’s Cairncross Castle series, readers are whisked away to Georgian Scotland. While this novel follows the events of the first book, What Happens in the Highlands, Bradley crafts a narrative that stands firmly on its own. You don’t need to have read Cat’s story to fall in love with Freya and Callum, though the glimpses of the previous couple and the overarching family mystery are so compelling that you will undoubtedly find yourself reaching for book one as soon as you finish this one if you decide to start with this book.
The story centers on the MacLeod sisters, a trio of women living in the shadow of Castle Cairncross. The local villagers whisper that the sisters are witches, and while Freya MacLeod—the quiet, observant middle sister—knows she can’t actually control the weather, the townspeople believe she can. And when Freya’s fearless younger sister, Sorcha, is at the center of a fire and possible death, Freya is forced to step out of her turret to prove her sister’s innocence. Unfortunately things don't go as planned.
Callum, a reluctant Laird who has come to Cairncross Castle as a favor to a friend. is weary of clan politics and the weight of leadership and looking for nothing more than a quiet escape. However, he finds anything but peace when he encounters Freya and Sorcha. Though Freya appears timid at first, she is a master of evasion, constantly outmaneuvering Callum’s battle-honed instincts. Dutybound to protect Freya, when he finds her in the middle of a witch hunt by the villagers, the pair are forced to flee together into the Scottish wilds.
The highlight of the novel is the evolving dynamic between Freya and Callum. Freya is a wonderful protagonist; her journey from a reserved artist to a woman of action is deeply satisfying. She isn't the typical "feisty" romance heroine who shouts her way through problems; instead, she uses her intellect to navigate danger. Callum serves as the perfect foil. While he initially presents as a hardened warrior, his time on the run with Freya reveals a surprising vulnerability and a deeply caring nature. He is a hero burdened by a secret promise to his clan, and watching him struggle to keep his growing feelings for Freya hidden adds a delicious layer of romantic tension to their flight.
Bradley’s writing is quick-paced and lovely, perfectly capturing the atmosphere of the Highlands without letting the historical detail bog down the plot. The "forced proximity" trope is handled with grace as the two characters are forced to rely on one another for survival. As they battle side-by-side against the threats closing in on them, the bond they form feels earned and heartfelt.
One of the most engaging aspects of *How to Lose a Laird* is the groundwork it lays for the rest of the series. The presence of the characters from book one adds a sense of continuity and warmth, making the MacLeod family feel like a living, breathing unit. Furthermore, the chaotic events that force everyone to run leave several threads dangling—most notably the fate of Sorcha and the mysterious Kier. This setup makes the anticipation for book three almost palpable, as readers will be desperate to know what happened to the youngest sister during the scramble for safety.
In conclusion, How to Lose a Laird is a solid, page-turning historical romance that balances mystery, adventure, and emotional depth. Whether you are a longtime fan of Anna Bradley or a newcomer to the *Cairncross Castle* series, Freya and Callum’s journey is a delightful escape. It is a story that proves sometimes the most precious treasures aren't the gold hidden in a castle, but the connections found when you have nowhere else to turn. I am already looking forward to going back to the beginning with Cat’s story and eagerly awaiting the next chapter for the MacLeods.
Thank you to the publisher for the copy in exchange for an honest review.
The story centers on the MacLeod sisters, a trio of women living in the shadow of Castle Cairncross. The local villagers whisper that the sisters are witches, and while Freya MacLeod—the quiet, observant middle sister—knows she can’t actually control the weather, the townspeople believe she can. And when Freya’s fearless younger sister, Sorcha, is at the center of a fire and possible death, Freya is forced to step out of her turret to prove her sister’s innocence. Unfortunately things don't go as planned.
Callum, a reluctant Laird who has come to Cairncross Castle as a favor to a friend. is weary of clan politics and the weight of leadership and looking for nothing more than a quiet escape. However, he finds anything but peace when he encounters Freya and Sorcha. Though Freya appears timid at first, she is a master of evasion, constantly outmaneuvering Callum’s battle-honed instincts. Dutybound to protect Freya, when he finds her in the middle of a witch hunt by the villagers, the pair are forced to flee together into the Scottish wilds.
The highlight of the novel is the evolving dynamic between Freya and Callum. Freya is a wonderful protagonist; her journey from a reserved artist to a woman of action is deeply satisfying. She isn't the typical "feisty" romance heroine who shouts her way through problems; instead, she uses her intellect to navigate danger. Callum serves as the perfect foil. While he initially presents as a hardened warrior, his time on the run with Freya reveals a surprising vulnerability and a deeply caring nature. He is a hero burdened by a secret promise to his clan, and watching him struggle to keep his growing feelings for Freya hidden adds a delicious layer of romantic tension to their flight.
Bradley’s writing is quick-paced and lovely, perfectly capturing the atmosphere of the Highlands without letting the historical detail bog down the plot. The "forced proximity" trope is handled with grace as the two characters are forced to rely on one another for survival. As they battle side-by-side against the threats closing in on them, the bond they form feels earned and heartfelt.
One of the most engaging aspects of *How to Lose a Laird* is the groundwork it lays for the rest of the series. The presence of the characters from book one adds a sense of continuity and warmth, making the MacLeod family feel like a living, breathing unit. Furthermore, the chaotic events that force everyone to run leave several threads dangling—most notably the fate of Sorcha and the mysterious Kier. This setup makes the anticipation for book three almost palpable, as readers will be desperate to know what happened to the youngest sister during the scramble for safety.
In conclusion, How to Lose a Laird is a solid, page-turning historical romance that balances mystery, adventure, and emotional depth. Whether you are a longtime fan of Anna Bradley or a newcomer to the *Cairncross Castle* series, Freya and Callum’s journey is a delightful escape. It is a story that proves sometimes the most precious treasures aren't the gold hidden in a castle, but the connections found when you have nowhere else to turn. I am already looking forward to going back to the beginning with Cat’s story and eagerly awaiting the next chapter for the MacLeods.
Thank you to the publisher for the copy in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Anna Bradley clearly understands the appeal of a stormy Scottish romance with a gruff hero, a chaotic heroine, and enough emotional tension to keep the sparks flying across the Isle of Skye.
How to Lose a Laird is the second book in the Cairnross Castle series and follows Freya MacLeod, the second of the MacLeod sisters, whose uncanny ability to predict the weather makes her both intriguing and deeply anxious. Freya is… a lot, especially in the first half of the novel. She is impulsive, prone to misunderstanding situations, and has a frustrating tendency to blame Callum for circumstances very much of her own making. At one point she accuses the poor man of kidnapping her when he is, in fact, rescuing her from an angry mob intent on a spot of vigilante justice. Honestly, Callum deserves compensation.
I was fortunate that I’d already read the first book in the series because I came into this one already liking Freya. Had I not, I may have struggled more early on. She swings wildly between timid and recklessly fearless, and while the narrative frames some of this as bravery, it occasionally felt more like chaos with excellent timing.
Thankfully, the chemistry between Freya and Callum arrives immediately and absolutely carries the story through those bumpier early sections. Callum may be described as gruff and grumpy, but considering he abandons his own work to help a friend and then proceeds to endure endless trouble from Freya and her sister, I’d argue the man has earned the occasional bad mood. He is steadfast, loyal, protective, brave, and yes, extremely swoonworthy.
The setting also does a tremendous amount of heavy lifting here. Bradley leans fully into the atmosphere of Scotland and the stormy Isle of Skye, with the weather almost functioning as its own character throughout the novel. The historical detail is fairly light, but there is enough in the language and descriptions to ground the story firmly in its period without overwhelming the romance.
What ultimately made this work for me was Freya’s growth. By the latter half of the book, her intelligence, compassion, and vulnerability finally begin to shine through properly, and I ended up genuinely rooting for her. The emotional payoff between her and Callum absolutely lands.
In the end, this is a romance, and the real question is: did I swoon? The answer is yes. Repeatedly.
Despite a few frustrations with Freya early on, I thoroughly enjoyed this one.
4 stars.
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC. All opinions in this review are my own.
How to Lose a Laird is the second book in the Cairnross Castle series and follows Freya MacLeod, the second of the MacLeod sisters, whose uncanny ability to predict the weather makes her both intriguing and deeply anxious. Freya is… a lot, especially in the first half of the novel. She is impulsive, prone to misunderstanding situations, and has a frustrating tendency to blame Callum for circumstances very much of her own making. At one point she accuses the poor man of kidnapping her when he is, in fact, rescuing her from an angry mob intent on a spot of vigilante justice. Honestly, Callum deserves compensation.
I was fortunate that I’d already read the first book in the series because I came into this one already liking Freya. Had I not, I may have struggled more early on. She swings wildly between timid and recklessly fearless, and while the narrative frames some of this as bravery, it occasionally felt more like chaos with excellent timing.
Thankfully, the chemistry between Freya and Callum arrives immediately and absolutely carries the story through those bumpier early sections. Callum may be described as gruff and grumpy, but considering he abandons his own work to help a friend and then proceeds to endure endless trouble from Freya and her sister, I’d argue the man has earned the occasional bad mood. He is steadfast, loyal, protective, brave, and yes, extremely swoonworthy.
The setting also does a tremendous amount of heavy lifting here. Bradley leans fully into the atmosphere of Scotland and the stormy Isle of Skye, with the weather almost functioning as its own character throughout the novel. The historical detail is fairly light, but there is enough in the language and descriptions to ground the story firmly in its period without overwhelming the romance.
What ultimately made this work for me was Freya’s growth. By the latter half of the book, her intelligence, compassion, and vulnerability finally begin to shine through properly, and I ended up genuinely rooting for her. The emotional payoff between her and Callum absolutely lands.
In the end, this is a romance, and the real question is: did I swoon? The answer is yes. Repeatedly.
Despite a few frustrations with Freya early on, I thoroughly enjoyed this one.
4 stars.
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC. All opinions in this review are my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
4.5/5 This was one of those books that I read just when I needed to.
Set thirty years after the Battle of Culloden in the Scottish Highlands. When people were superstitious about witches and the thought of recovering the lost Jacobean gold had smugglers in a frenzy. The story doesn’t delve too deep into the social-economic impacts of Highland culture after Culloden but enough the reader knows it has changed and isn’t too far removed from it.
I jumped in after the first in the series where the first one covered a lot of the plot points for the overarching series plot. It didn’t affect this story so much but I have a feeling it’ll be important for the third book. I already wanted to read the first one and I’ll definitely go back now.
Freya was such an interesting character. She calls herself a coward and Callum refers to her as a mouse. Circumstances have allowed her to revert into herself and hide behind her sisters and the castle walls. So when she is forced to stand on her own, Freya finds inner strength she didn’t think she had. I loved how her growth drove the story forward, from drawing life to living it. Her father taught her about constellations as a child and they remain an important influence in her life.
When the setting changes about half way through, it’s clear a corner has been turned as well. And with it comes not only a change in Freya but more insight into Callum. Throughout the first half he doesn’t up open much about himself and Freya later realizes that she wasn’t asking the right questions. This led to some miscommunication but I didn’t mind it because it’s hard to put everything out there when you don’t even realize it yourself.
Anytime I read a book set in Scotland, Outlander is always close in my thoughts. Add in reading this in the days leading up to the tv series finale and this hit a bit more emotional.
I enjoy Anna Bradley’s romances and was happy to see this series being set outside the 19th century.
How to Lose a Laird is the second book in the Caincross Castle series.
It’s a slow burn with two open door encounters.
I received an advance reader copy from the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
Set thirty years after the Battle of Culloden in the Scottish Highlands. When people were superstitious about witches and the thought of recovering the lost Jacobean gold had smugglers in a frenzy. The story doesn’t delve too deep into the social-economic impacts of Highland culture after Culloden but enough the reader knows it has changed and isn’t too far removed from it.
I jumped in after the first in the series where the first one covered a lot of the plot points for the overarching series plot. It didn’t affect this story so much but I have a feeling it’ll be important for the third book. I already wanted to read the first one and I’ll definitely go back now.
Freya was such an interesting character. She calls herself a coward and Callum refers to her as a mouse. Circumstances have allowed her to revert into herself and hide behind her sisters and the castle walls. So when she is forced to stand on her own, Freya finds inner strength she didn’t think she had. I loved how her growth drove the story forward, from drawing life to living it. Her father taught her about constellations as a child and they remain an important influence in her life.
When the setting changes about half way through, it’s clear a corner has been turned as well. And with it comes not only a change in Freya but more insight into Callum. Throughout the first half he doesn’t up open much about himself and Freya later realizes that she wasn’t asking the right questions. This led to some miscommunication but I didn’t mind it because it’s hard to put everything out there when you don’t even realize it yourself.
Anytime I read a book set in Scotland, Outlander is always close in my thoughts. Add in reading this in the days leading up to the tv series finale and this hit a bit more emotional.
I enjoy Anna Bradley’s romances and was happy to see this series being set outside the 19th century.
How to Lose a Laird is the second book in the Caincross Castle series.
It’s a slow burn with two open door encounters.
I received an advance reader copy from the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
June 9, 2026
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Rumors have filled the local village after Freya MacLeod’s father’s death. Some rumors think her late father left a treasure to be found. This rumor has caused treasure hunters to swarm the area. Other rumors state that she and her sisters are witches. When Freya and her sister Sorcha are accused of murder, her brother-in-law’s friend, Callum, whisks her away to his castle to save her. Will the two find love? Will Freya be able to return home?
My thoughts on this novel:
• This is a historical romance set in Scotland in the 18th century. I love reading stories set in Scotland and in this time period!
• I liked the back story of Callum’s father fighting in Culloden and how it impacted their family. Callum finds himself betrothed to a woman he admires but does not love as one of the consequences.
• This is the second book in the Cairncross Castle book series. I did not read the first book in the series about the first sister, Cat, but this book worked fine as a standalone. I do think the first book probably gave more details on the treasure hunt and would be worth going back to read.
• This is the second MacLeod daughter, Freya’s, story.
• This story had plenty of adventure and some mystery.
• There was a lot of chaos at the start of the story, and I had to figure out what was going on. Freya seemed to hide in the shadows, but she had a lot of great growth throughout the story.
• Freya and Callum had great chemistry.
• This was a forced proximity story.
• The story was mostly slow burn, but there are a couple of open-door scenes towards the end of the novel.
• There are miscommunication as part of the romance, which always annoys me in stories.
• I am interested to read the next book in the series and get Sorcha’s story.
Overall, How to Lose a Laird by Anna Bradley was a fun historical romance.
Book Source: Thank-you @kensingtonbooks @btc_books @annabradleyauthor @tlcbooktours for a review copy of the novel as part of the TLC Book Tour.
This review was first posted on my blog at: https://lauragerold.blogspot.com/2026...
Rumors have filled the local village after Freya MacLeod’s father’s death. Some rumors think her late father left a treasure to be found. This rumor has caused treasure hunters to swarm the area. Other rumors state that she and her sisters are witches. When Freya and her sister Sorcha are accused of murder, her brother-in-law’s friend, Callum, whisks her away to his castle to save her. Will the two find love? Will Freya be able to return home?
My thoughts on this novel:
• This is a historical romance set in Scotland in the 18th century. I love reading stories set in Scotland and in this time period!
• I liked the back story of Callum’s father fighting in Culloden and how it impacted their family. Callum finds himself betrothed to a woman he admires but does not love as one of the consequences.
• This is the second book in the Cairncross Castle book series. I did not read the first book in the series about the first sister, Cat, but this book worked fine as a standalone. I do think the first book probably gave more details on the treasure hunt and would be worth going back to read.
• This is the second MacLeod daughter, Freya’s, story.
• This story had plenty of adventure and some mystery.
• There was a lot of chaos at the start of the story, and I had to figure out what was going on. Freya seemed to hide in the shadows, but she had a lot of great growth throughout the story.
• Freya and Callum had great chemistry.
• This was a forced proximity story.
• The story was mostly slow burn, but there are a couple of open-door scenes towards the end of the novel.
• There are miscommunication as part of the romance, which always annoys me in stories.
• I am interested to read the next book in the series and get Sorcha’s story.
Overall, How to Lose a Laird by Anna Bradley was a fun historical romance.
Book Source: Thank-you @kensingtonbooks @btc_books @annabradleyauthor @tlcbooktours for a review copy of the novel as part of the TLC Book Tour.
This review was first posted on my blog at: https://lauragerold.blogspot.com/2026...
June 5, 2026
𝘽𝙤𝙤𝙠𝙨: Standalone-ish Series
𝙂𝙚𝙣𝙧𝙚: Historical Romance
𝘼𝙜𝙚-𝙂𝙧𝙤𝙪𝙥: Adult
𝙋𝙊𝙑: Dual - Her/Him
𝘽𝙤𝙤𝙠 𝙍𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜: 4⭐️
𝙎𝙥𝙞𝙘𝙚: 2.5🌶️ Tension, yearning, lingering touches, intense kissing, and two lightly detailed intimate scenes.
𝙏𝙧𝙤𝙥𝙚𝙨
❥ Hate to Love
❥ On the Run
❥ Forced Proximity
❥ Protective MMC
❥ Size Difference
❥ They make each other better
𝙊𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙖𝙡𝙡 𝙩𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝𝙩𝙨 & 𝙛𝙚𝙚𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙜𝙨:
I enjoyed this book so much I finished it in a day! It has danger, passion, strong family/friend bonds, and a deep, soulful love that reminds me of my own relationship. It completely swept me away. Also, he kidnaps her to save her!!!
I’ve always loved Scottish romances. I have family ties to Scotland and Ireland, and I’ve always been fascinated by the history and culture. Not to mention it is a beautiful country.
𝙒𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙄 𝙡𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙙:
❥ The family/friend dynamic was beautiful. The characters are written well and have so much personality. I felt like I didn't get enough of them.
❥ The romance was deep, sweet, and passionately immersive. Callum is masculine and goes after what he wants, a trait I find very attractive. He grabs her by the ankles and pulls her to him 🫠🥵
𝙒𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙄 𝙙𝙞𝙙𝙣’𝙩 𝙡𝙞𝙠𝙚:
❥ I am usually not a fan of the miscommunication trope, but this one played out in a way that worked for me.
❥ I'm not sure if this was due to reading an ARC, but there were a few scenes when I felt a little lost regarding who was speaking or where certain characters were positioned.
𝙒𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙄 𝘾𝙤𝙣𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙪𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙎𝙚𝙧𝙞𝙚𝙨?
Absolutely! I’m very excited to continue the series and see where it goes. There were a few loose ends by the end of the story, and I’m hoping they’ll be tied up in future books.
𝙂𝙚𝙣𝙧𝙚: Historical Romance
𝘼𝙜𝙚-𝙂𝙧𝙤𝙪𝙥: Adult
𝙋𝙊𝙑: Dual - Her/Him
𝘽𝙤𝙤𝙠 𝙍𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜: 4⭐️
𝙎𝙥𝙞𝙘𝙚: 2.5🌶️ Tension, yearning, lingering touches, intense kissing, and two lightly detailed intimate scenes.
𝙏𝙧𝙤𝙥𝙚𝙨
❥ Hate to Love
❥ On the Run
❥ Forced Proximity
❥ Protective MMC
❥ Size Difference
❥ They make each other better
𝙊𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙖𝙡𝙡 𝙩𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝𝙩𝙨 & 𝙛𝙚𝙚𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙜𝙨:
I enjoyed this book so much I finished it in a day! It has danger, passion, strong family/friend bonds, and a deep, soulful love that reminds me of my own relationship. It completely swept me away. Also, he kidnaps her to save her!!!
I’ve always loved Scottish romances. I have family ties to Scotland and Ireland, and I’ve always been fascinated by the history and culture. Not to mention it is a beautiful country.
𝙒𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙄 𝙡𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙙:
❥ The family/friend dynamic was beautiful. The characters are written well and have so much personality. I felt like I didn't get enough of them.
❥ The romance was deep, sweet, and passionately immersive. Callum is masculine and goes after what he wants, a trait I find very attractive. He grabs her by the ankles and pulls her to him 🫠🥵
𝙒𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙄 𝙙𝙞𝙙𝙣’𝙩 𝙡𝙞𝙠𝙚:
❥ I am usually not a fan of the miscommunication trope, but this one played out in a way that worked for me.
❥ I'm not sure if this was due to reading an ARC, but there were a few scenes when I felt a little lost regarding who was speaking or where certain characters were positioned.
𝙒𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙄 𝘾𝙤𝙣𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙪𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙎𝙚𝙧𝙞𝙚𝙨?
Absolutely! I’m very excited to continue the series and see where it goes. There were a few loose ends by the end of the story, and I’m hoping they’ll be tied up in future books.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Forced proximity does its job for the youngest MacLeod sister Freya in this open-door Scottish historical romance. I am quite intrigued about plotlines that were left OUT of this book. It is pretty much a side quest romance to the main treasure hunting adventure of the MacLeod sisters.
With eldest sister Catriona and her fiancé Hamish off searching for a rumored treasure, Freya and middle sister Sorcha are left to defend the castle. Hamish sends his friends Callum and Kier to help guard the girls. For some reason (which I expect to be explained in the next book), Sorcha sneaks out of the house to a local farm and it somehow is set on fire. Freya, after following the smoke to find her sister, ends up seeing Sorcha and then they have to flee in different directions to avoid a witch-crazed mob. Kier follows after Sorcha and Callum grabs Freya and flees to his family's castle miles away.
Callum & Freya have a tension-filled road trip sharing a horse, a cottage and a moonlight bath but Callum is keeping a secret that threatens their burgeoning romance. Can they overcome family expectations and false allegations to rewrite their stars?
This was a pretty quick read for me. I was moderately invested but not swept up by the depth of their connection. It could have done with more banter. It was pretty shallow and lust-based and Freya is the youngest and most naive of the sisters. If the third book doesn't pay off with sufficiently wrapped plotlines and a larger-than-life romance for Sorcha and Kier, this series may be a dud.
With eldest sister Catriona and her fiancé Hamish off searching for a rumored treasure, Freya and middle sister Sorcha are left to defend the castle. Hamish sends his friends Callum and Kier to help guard the girls. For some reason (which I expect to be explained in the next book), Sorcha sneaks out of the house to a local farm and it somehow is set on fire. Freya, after following the smoke to find her sister, ends up seeing Sorcha and then they have to flee in different directions to avoid a witch-crazed mob. Kier follows after Sorcha and Callum grabs Freya and flees to his family's castle miles away.
Callum & Freya have a tension-filled road trip sharing a horse, a cottage and a moonlight bath but Callum is keeping a secret that threatens their burgeoning romance. Can they overcome family expectations and false allegations to rewrite their stars?
This was a pretty quick read for me. I was moderately invested but not swept up by the depth of their connection. It could have done with more banter. It was pretty shallow and lust-based and Freya is the youngest and most naive of the sisters. If the third book doesn't pay off with sufficiently wrapped plotlines and a larger-than-life romance for Sorcha and Kier, this series may be a dud.
June 18, 2026
🏰 Book Tour and Review 🏰- How to Lose A Laird by Anna Bradley
Thank you to TLC Tours and Kennsington Books for the chance to participate in this book tour and this book for review. It is the 2nd in the Cairncross Castle series. This was my first book by this author and I enjoyed the is historical romance that takes place in Georgian Scotland. It was a slow burn romance with plenty of angst as well as a damsel in distress.
Blurb:
Three unusually gifted sisters in Scotland must protect their family fortress from those who would steal its rumored treasures —and their hearts— in this sweeping, adventure-filled, historical romance series.
Despite their village's wild, insistent rumors, middle sister Freya MacLeod is no more a witch than her extraordinary siblings. She is quiet and meek and keeps to herself. When Freya's fearless younger sister disappears and is accused of murder, Freya is determined to prove her innocence —and bring her back and working with a warrior sent to protect her.
Callum is a laird who is helping to protect Castle Cairncross as a favor to a friend. He has to protect Freta from an enraged village. As they flee, Freya is stunned to see how caring —and vulnerable —Callum can be. ..
But he must keep his growing feelings for her hidden in order to honor a secret promise to his clan. Yet as their peril increases, they may find that battling side-by-side will uncover something more precious than gold ...
If you like historical romances with some action and adventure, you will enjoy this book.
This book was released May 26, 2026.
May 26, 2026
‘How to lose a laird’ follows Freya MacLeod, the quiet and artistic middle sister of a family surrounded by rumours of witchcraft. While Freya’s drawings seem to predict the weather, she considers herself ordinary until her younger sister disappears and is accused of murder. Determined to clear her sister’s name, Freya sets out on a dangerous journey alongside Callum, a reluctant laird and seasoned warrior tasked with protecting Castle Cairncross. As they flee from mounting danger and a village eager to turn against them, the two begin to uncover unexpected trust, vulnerability, and growing feelings for one another.
I really enjoyed the mix of romance and suspense throughout the novel. Freya was an easy heroine to love, with her quiet strength and determination, while Callum’s protective nature and hidden vulnerabilities made him an appealing hero. Their chemistry developed naturally as they faced danger together. The Scottish setting added plenty of charm and atmosphere to the story.
The characters were engaging, and the strong emotional connection kept me interested. This was a fun and heartfelt historical romance with mystery and plenty of adventure. It also had just the right amount of tension. An enjoyable read.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I really enjoyed the mix of romance and suspense throughout the novel. Freya was an easy heroine to love, with her quiet strength and determination, while Callum’s protective nature and hidden vulnerabilities made him an appealing hero. Their chemistry developed naturally as they faced danger together. The Scottish setting added plenty of charm and atmosphere to the story.
The characters were engaging, and the strong emotional connection kept me interested. This was a fun and heartfelt historical romance with mystery and plenty of adventure. It also had just the right amount of tension. An enjoyable read.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 26, 2026
I just love this book by one of my favorite authors. Ms Bradley writes like a pro in her Cairncorss Castle series. This story had me at first chapter and never let go. Even though this is book #2, it can be read as a stand alone. The adventure in the Scottish highlands always has me tingling.
Freya MacLeod is not a witch as the people in her little village claims. She is just a woman trying to live her life with her sisters and keep snoops from her home. It takes a lot of work to just survive a run down castle with quirks in the making.
When Callum comes to their home as a favor from a friend, he's not sure about his welcome. He's only there to protect the sisters. When Freya's younger sister is blamed for a murder by the villagers, she is determined to prove her innocence—and bring her back.
Callum thinks Freya is a timid mouse of a woman who seems to be afraid of him. Things go from worse when the enraged villagers put a bounty on their heads. Freya and Callum are on a adventure to find the missing sibling. Things heat up when they begin to trust each other and fall in love. A happy ever after is the key to happiness between two soul mates.
I appreciate Net Galley for this ARC title in which I gave an honest review.
Freya MacLeod is not a witch as the people in her little village claims. She is just a woman trying to live her life with her sisters and keep snoops from her home. It takes a lot of work to just survive a run down castle with quirks in the making.
When Callum comes to their home as a favor from a friend, he's not sure about his welcome. He's only there to protect the sisters. When Freya's younger sister is blamed for a murder by the villagers, she is determined to prove her innocence—and bring her back.
Callum thinks Freya is a timid mouse of a woman who seems to be afraid of him. Things go from worse when the enraged villagers put a bounty on their heads. Freya and Callum are on a adventure to find the missing sibling. Things heat up when they begin to trust each other and fall in love. A happy ever after is the key to happiness between two soul mates.
I appreciate Net Galley for this ARC title in which I gave an honest review.
May 26, 2026
I received How to Lose a Laird through a Goodreads giveaway sponsored by Anna Bradley and the publisher. Thank you for the opportunity to read and review this delightful historical romance.
Set in the Scottish Highlands, this was a charming mix of romance, mystery, and adventure.
Freya was a wonderful heroine. Although she is quiet and reserved, she shows a great deal of courage and determination when her sister disappears. I loved seeing her step out of her comfort zone. Callum is a protective and dependable hero, and his growing relationship with Freya felt sweet and heartfelt.
The story moves quickly and includes family secrets, danger, and plenty of tension to keep things interesting. I also enjoyed the bond between the MacLeod sisters, which adds warmth and depth to the story.
Even though this is the second book in the series, it can be enjoyed on its own. The ending left me eager to see what happens next.
Overall, this was an enjoyable and engaging read that will appeal to fans of Scottish historical romance with a touch of mystery and adventure. I look forward to continuing the series. 💙🏰
Set in the Scottish Highlands, this was a charming mix of romance, mystery, and adventure.
Freya was a wonderful heroine. Although she is quiet and reserved, she shows a great deal of courage and determination when her sister disappears. I loved seeing her step out of her comfort zone. Callum is a protective and dependable hero, and his growing relationship with Freya felt sweet and heartfelt.
The story moves quickly and includes family secrets, danger, and plenty of tension to keep things interesting. I also enjoyed the bond between the MacLeod sisters, which adds warmth and depth to the story.
Even though this is the second book in the series, it can be enjoyed on its own. The ending left me eager to see what happens next.
Overall, this was an enjoyable and engaging read that will appeal to fans of Scottish historical romance with a touch of mystery and adventure. I look forward to continuing the series. 💙🏰
June 21, 2026
Oh how I enjoyed this one. Every time I pick up a historical fiction, I am reminded why I love them so much - especially when there is a romance. The grumpy meets sunshine was so delicious. Callum was so very reluctant to even make himself available to help out the sisters, but Freya’s sweet and something more nature whittled him done one action at a time. The chemistry between them was palpable and I couldn’t get enough. Callum’s fierce protectiveness of Freya warmed my heart.
I hadn’t read of Catrina and Hamish before picking this one up, but this did not detract from my enjoyment of this story. The stories are connected by different threads on the same timeline. I am quite eager to the last sisters perspective, but mostly because she is the more unruly of the three - I believe there will be lost of shenanigans afoot based on the small glimpse of her we see at the beginning of this.
If you’re looking for a heartwarming and fun historical romance, then this could be for you.
Many thanks to Kensington Publishing and NetGalley for a digital review copy of the book. The opinions expressed are given freely and are honest and my own.
I hadn’t read of Catrina and Hamish before picking this one up, but this did not detract from my enjoyment of this story. The stories are connected by different threads on the same timeline. I am quite eager to the last sisters perspective, but mostly because she is the more unruly of the three - I believe there will be lost of shenanigans afoot based on the small glimpse of her we see at the beginning of this.
If you’re looking for a heartwarming and fun historical romance, then this could be for you.
Many thanks to Kensington Publishing and NetGalley for a digital review copy of the book. The opinions expressed are given freely and are honest and my own.
June 13, 2026
I'd like to preface this with that I was an avid reader as a teen and lost that drive as I got older. I wasn't someone who read romance or anything of the sort, either. This was also a giveaway win, so I'm morally obligated to write a review, something that I've also never done.
With that being said, I loved this book! I finished it within a few weeks, a feat, as I have an attention problem and a busy schedule. You don't need to read the first book to understand this one! The first is the eldest sisters story, and while they ARE connected, you can absolutely start here instead.
I loved the dual pov, which is crazy cause I actively look over books with more than one pov. The main characters were enjoyable, the stakes weren't unpleasantly high (no heavy angst!!), and the "miscommunication" wasn't silly or unrealistic. I wish I was better at writing reviews, because my words don't give this book justice.
Tl:dr? Loved the story, loved the characters, WILL be buying the first book and preordering the third when it's available.
With that being said, I loved this book! I finished it within a few weeks, a feat, as I have an attention problem and a busy schedule. You don't need to read the first book to understand this one! The first is the eldest sisters story, and while they ARE connected, you can absolutely start here instead.
I loved the dual pov, which is crazy cause I actively look over books with more than one pov. The main characters were enjoyable, the stakes weren't unpleasantly high (no heavy angst!!), and the "miscommunication" wasn't silly or unrealistic. I wish I was better at writing reviews, because my words don't give this book justice.
Tl:dr? Loved the story, loved the characters, WILL be buying the first book and preordering the third when it's available.
June 2, 2026
Thanks to Kensington books for the giveaway that won me this ARC! When I entered, I thought this was a standalone, but saw it's the 2nd story in a trilogy, each book focusing on a sister. So, I listened to the audiobook of the 1st book, What Happens in the Highlands. The story was interesting, although the timeline that the story took place was a little unclear until about halfway through the book. It was a cleaner story than I'm used to, with some over-clothes kissing and petting, and then then closed-door everything else. I'm glad I did the first book before starting the second. While the stories only coincide a bit (this book starts weeks after the 1st one starts, when the 1st couple goes off on their lone adventure), I think you need to know the premise of the 1st to properly understand the 2nd book. This book does have more explicit spice, which I appreciated! I did like the MMC of the first book better than the current Mr. Grumpy-pants, but it was well-done and I appreciated his growth throughout the story. Our FMC takes herself for granted and fails to see her own strength. In the end, her strength lies within her big heart. The story itself is cute, but not very deep. It's a fun read.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
An enjoyable read
This is book 2 in the Cairncross Castle series and follows one of the MacLeod sisters, Freya.
Set on The Isle of Skye, Scotland in the late 1700’s the sisters are rumoured to be witches by the villagers.
They think Freya can predict the weather and she ends up being chased down by the villagers where she is rescued by Callum.
He has come to the castle to watch over the sisters at the request of his friend while he is away.
This sets the quiet Freya off on a journey with Callum where they get to spend some time together as they flee.
This is a story of misunderstandings, secrets, finding your inner strength and showing your true self.
An enjoyable storyline and characters that through circumstance find themselves falling for each other.
Thank you Anna Bradley, NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for the opportunity to read this story.
This is book 2 in the Cairncross Castle series and follows one of the MacLeod sisters, Freya.
Set on The Isle of Skye, Scotland in the late 1700’s the sisters are rumoured to be witches by the villagers.
They think Freya can predict the weather and she ends up being chased down by the villagers where she is rescued by Callum.
He has come to the castle to watch over the sisters at the request of his friend while he is away.
This sets the quiet Freya off on a journey with Callum where they get to spend some time together as they flee.
This is a story of misunderstandings, secrets, finding your inner strength and showing your true self.
An enjoyable storyline and characters that through circumstance find themselves falling for each other.
Thank you Anna Bradley, NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for the opportunity to read this story.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Despite their village's wild, insistent rumours, middle sister Freya MacLeod is no more a witch than her extraordinary siblings. Quiet and observant, she can't control the weather—although her magnificently skilled drawings often predict it. But now a very different sort of storm has besieged their home of Castle Cairncross. When Freya’s fearless younger sister disappears and is accused of murder, Freya is determined to prove her innocence—and bring her back. A reluctant laird, Callum is glad to escape his clan’s intrigues. But helping to protect Castle Cairncross as a favour to a friend is far more difficult than he thought. Especially when the seemingly timid Freya eludes him, his battle-honed instincts—and enrages the village into putting a bounty on both their heads. As they flee, Freya is stunned to see how caring—and vulnerable—Callum can be.
The second book in the trilogy about the MacLeod sisters. I really liked Freya who’s the quiet sister, I also liked our reluctant hero Callum. I loved the dynamics between them & their chemistry. The pace is good & my interest was held all the way through.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
The second book in the trilogy about the MacLeod sisters. I really liked Freya who’s the quiet sister, I also liked our reluctant hero Callum. I loved the dynamics between them & their chemistry. The pace is good & my interest was held all the way through.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
May 26, 2026
Anna Bradley's How to Lose a Laird is the second book in the Cairncross Castle series , and it is absolutely wonderful. I was very fortunate to receive an ARC from Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Freya, the Macleod sister assumed to be a witch, is worried about her younger sister when she doesn't return from escaping to town from a quick errand. Callum Ross, Laird of Clan Ross, has been tasked with taking care of the remaining two Macleod sisters and is astonished to learn that Freya has tricked him and is not as biddable or quiet as she seems. This is a beautiful story about patience and fortitude in times of distress and anguish. The angst, the worry, the blooming love is all beautiful described and visually presented. A very good must read story.
May 30, 2026
Freya is the second sister out of the three to have her story. Freya's father died 4 months ago and since then, every smuggler in town has showed up to try to find the hidden treasure on their land. Callum (and Kier) has been asked to watch Freya and her sister Sorcha. Freya and her sister are not ones to do what they're told. Callum and Freya end up on the run.
Freya just needs some confidence. She's a firecracker and escape artist, as Callum ends up chasing her all over town. They end up staying in a tiny cabin with ONLY ONE BED. They have tons of chemistry and are very hot together.
Thank you to Kensington for the copy of this book. Opinions are my own.I look forward to Sorcha's story!!
Freya just needs some confidence. She's a firecracker and escape artist, as Callum ends up chasing her all over town. They end up staying in a tiny cabin with ONLY ONE BED. They have tons of chemistry and are very hot together.
Thank you to Kensington for the copy of this book. Opinions are my own.I look forward to Sorcha's story!!
May 17, 2026
This is the second book in the series, Cairncross Castle, but could be read as a standalone.
Freya, the middle sister, is quiet and understands a lot about weather patterns. When her older sister and her betrothed leave to search for treasure, her sister's betrothed tasks two of his friends to come to the castle to watch over the two sisters.
When there is a fire in the village and Sorcha, the youngest sister disappears, Cullum takes Freya to his castle to escape the villagers who believe that Freya and Sorcha are witches and set the fire.
This is a wonderful story with a great plot, fantastic secondary characters, and several plot twists.
I cannot wait for the next book in the series.
Freya, the middle sister, is quiet and understands a lot about weather patterns. When her older sister and her betrothed leave to search for treasure, her sister's betrothed tasks two of his friends to come to the castle to watch over the two sisters.
When there is a fire in the village and Sorcha, the youngest sister disappears, Cullum takes Freya to his castle to escape the villagers who believe that Freya and Sorcha are witches and set the fire.
This is a wonderful story with a great plot, fantastic secondary characters, and several plot twists.
I cannot wait for the next book in the series.
May 20, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Eh. I’m underwhelmed. I had not read the first book and I believe this one acts perfectly fine as a standalone, though I’m sure I missed some subtle points relating to the sister who the first book focused on. The writing was smooth and interesting and a really quick read. However the characters just felt really flat and uninteresting to me. The FMC’s naivety and inexperience is pushed a little too aggressively for my tastes. The spicy scenes felt a little shoehorned in. Nothing in the plot really caught me as anything outside of the myriad tropes in contained, nothing really unique.
Eh. I’m underwhelmed. I had not read the first book and I believe this one acts perfectly fine as a standalone, though I’m sure I missed some subtle points relating to the sister who the first book focused on. The writing was smooth and interesting and a really quick read. However the characters just felt really flat and uninteresting to me. The FMC’s naivety and inexperience is pushed a little too aggressively for my tastes. The spicy scenes felt a little shoehorned in. Nothing in the plot really caught me as anything outside of the myriad tropes in contained, nothing really unique.
Did Not Finish
May 28, 2026I decided to DNF this book at 38% of the way through the arc. How to Lose a Laird is a book that really only seems to work if a reader read and enjoyed the first book. I did not enjoy the first book as I did not care for the couple, but I hoped to have a different experience with this one.
But I'm bored. I don't feel any chemistry with the characters. The events that move the plot aren't very interesting. The whole book just feels like a rut and I'm not enjoying it at all. I don't think Anna Bradley is an author that works for me.
Thank you to Netgalley and Kensington Publishing for the arc for review purposes.
But I'm bored. I don't feel any chemistry with the characters. The events that move the plot aren't very interesting. The whole book just feels like a rut and I'm not enjoying it at all. I don't think Anna Bradley is an author that works for me.
Thank you to Netgalley and Kensington Publishing for the arc for review purposes.
June 24, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley for this eARC!
I’ve always been a fan of historical romances and really enjoyed this one! The plot of this book felt more like a side quest from the first one which occasionally became frustrating but the character growth redeemed that for me.
Some of my favorite episodes of tv are the ones that explore a secondary character and follow them on a journey that represents their overall growth. This book felt a lot like that kind of episode so I had a lot of fun with it!
Looking forward to the next book to finish out the series and wrap up any unanswered questions and plot lines!
I’ve always been a fan of historical romances and really enjoyed this one! The plot of this book felt more like a side quest from the first one which occasionally became frustrating but the character growth redeemed that for me.
Some of my favorite episodes of tv are the ones that explore a secondary character and follow them on a journey that represents their overall growth. This book felt a lot like that kind of episode so I had a lot of fun with it!
Looking forward to the next book to finish out the series and wrap up any unanswered questions and plot lines!
May 27, 2026
This was somewhat better than the first one book, but still a lot of repetition/inner thoughts. I liked the romance, but unfortunately, I'm not at all invested these characters or the plot to continue reading this series. I was really looking forward to this series, so it's sad. For a moment, I even gaslighted myself into thinking that all previous Anna Bradley books I enjoyed were similar?! They are not! It's just this series that hasn't clicked with me. I shall look forward to her future histrom projects.
2.5 rounded up to 3.
2.5 rounded up to 3.
June 7, 2026
This had a bit of a slow start for me, but it was probably just because I just switched book genres and haven’t read one like this in a long time.
After the first few chapters, I was hooked! Super cute love story and some cool Scottish history/geography that I was all to happy to research and learn about!
GREAT vocabulary in this. I haven’t run across so many words I didn’t know in a long while, so this was super fun for me! I also loved the diction the characters spoke in, as it was a new one for me.
Overall a super fun read! Thank you to Anna Bradley and Kensington for the ARC!
After the first few chapters, I was hooked! Super cute love story and some cool Scottish history/geography that I was all to happy to research and learn about!
GREAT vocabulary in this. I haven’t run across so many words I didn’t know in a long while, so this was super fun for me! I also loved the diction the characters spoke in, as it was a new one for me.
Overall a super fun read! Thank you to Anna Bradley and Kensington for the ARC!
June 8, 2026
I liked this book way more than I anticipated! I won a copy of this novel from a Goodreads giveaway. Romance is not my typical genre, but this was fun! I love that it takes place in 1775 Scotland. I loved the bits of adventure and all the mentions of the Scottish scenery and castles. It did have a little bit of Outlander vibes, which never hurts lol. Maybe the characters and plot were a little stereotypical and predictable, but again it was just a fun read. I'll definitely be keeping an eye out for when the third Cairncross Castle novel comes out!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
3.75
I really enjoy a good historical romance, especially if it is set in Scotland.
This book did not disappoint and I read it in one sitting. I especially enjoyed how the FMC had so much depth to her character and was not what she seemed.
I recommend this book if you enjoy
🏴 grumpy x sunshine
🏴 enemies to lovers
🏴 slow burn
🏴 found family
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC
I really enjoy a good historical romance, especially if it is set in Scotland.
This book did not disappoint and I read it in one sitting. I especially enjoyed how the FMC had so much depth to her character and was not what she seemed.
I recommend this book if you enjoy
🏴 grumpy x sunshine
🏴 enemies to lovers
🏴 slow burn
🏴 found family
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I love a book that knows exactly what it is: this one has a brooding laird with a secret, a sheltered middle sister who turns out to be made of sterner stuff than anyone gave her credit for, and a one-bed cottage in the Scottish Highlands that is doing exactly what it should. How to Lose a Laird leans into all of it.
Callum Ross is duty-bound and aloof. He’s promised to watch and protect Freya, but does so with a great deal of reluctance to start. He thaws when the danger turns real and his instincts kick in. Freya is the sheltered middle sister who tries to blend into the background. She dresses and behaves so as to not be noticed. But in her arc, she finds that she is not weak or invisible at all.
What is supposed to be “sister-sitting” (just hanging out at the MacLeod’s castle to make sure Freya and Sorcha, the youngest sister, are safe) quickly goes sideways and it leads to real threats. Sorcha disappears with Keir – we’ll get that story in book 3! – and Callum has to get Freya out of town immediately. The action-packed first third of the book was a whirlwind. The danger felt real. Bradley keeps both characters' motivations understandable and real.
In fleeing Dunvegan, they spend a few days in a one-room cottage. Nearby is a loch with a willow tree limbed in moonlight that’s perfect for bathing… and, well, this does not help anyone stay professional. **wink, wink**
Aila, Callum’s mom, is a standout side character. I love when moms help their ding-dong sons along. As a boy mom, I get this role. The drama runs on miscommunication, which is sometimes frustrating, but we understand the characters well enough to buy into their (poor) decisions.
This book’s timeline overlaps with book one. It will read better if you start there, but technically it can standalone. There’s enough context from book one to bring you along. But really, book one was terrific and includes a road trip! For treasure!
I love a stern man unraveled and Callum deserved every bit of his unraveling (complimentary). Congrats to Freya for her work in that regard.
[character/trope notes]
CHARACTERS
Freya MacLeod — FMC; middle of three sisters; quiet, observant, self-effacing; an artist whose detailed drawings predict weather patterns, which the village reads as witchcraft; has spent her life blending into the background, deferring to her bolder sisters; her arc is the discovery that she is not weak or invisible — she is simply unasked; her father taught her to read the constellations and that connection runs through the book
Callum Ross — MMC; reluctant laird; arrived at Cairncross as a favour to a friend (Hamish, Catriona's betrothed from book 1); duty-bound and guarded, reads as gruff and closed-off in the first half; carries a secret promise to his clan that complicates his growing feelings for Freya; thaws when the danger turns real and his protective instincts take over
TROPES
Forced proximity (flight through the Highlands; one-room cottage, one bed)
On the run / fugitives
Grumpy MMC / quiet-sunshine FMC
Protective hero
Sheltered heroine who is made of sterner stuff than anyone knew
Secret promise / duty conflict (MMC)
Witch accusation / superstitious village as external threat
Size difference (noted)
Slow burn with open-door intimate scenes (two)
Scottish setting with post-Culloden historical texture (light; atmospheric rather than heavy)
Series with overlapping timelines; book 3 setup is present throughout
Callum Ross is duty-bound and aloof. He’s promised to watch and protect Freya, but does so with a great deal of reluctance to start. He thaws when the danger turns real and his instincts kick in. Freya is the sheltered middle sister who tries to blend into the background. She dresses and behaves so as to not be noticed. But in her arc, she finds that she is not weak or invisible at all.
What is supposed to be “sister-sitting” (just hanging out at the MacLeod’s castle to make sure Freya and Sorcha, the youngest sister, are safe) quickly goes sideways and it leads to real threats. Sorcha disappears with Keir – we’ll get that story in book 3! – and Callum has to get Freya out of town immediately. The action-packed first third of the book was a whirlwind. The danger felt real. Bradley keeps both characters' motivations understandable and real.
In fleeing Dunvegan, they spend a few days in a one-room cottage. Nearby is a loch with a willow tree limbed in moonlight that’s perfect for bathing… and, well, this does not help anyone stay professional. **wink, wink**
Aila, Callum’s mom, is a standout side character. I love when moms help their ding-dong sons along. As a boy mom, I get this role. The drama runs on miscommunication, which is sometimes frustrating, but we understand the characters well enough to buy into their (poor) decisions.
This book’s timeline overlaps with book one. It will read better if you start there, but technically it can standalone. There’s enough context from book one to bring you along. But really, book one was terrific and includes a road trip! For treasure!
I love a stern man unraveled and Callum deserved every bit of his unraveling (complimentary). Congrats to Freya for her work in that regard.
[character/trope notes]
CHARACTERS
Freya MacLeod — FMC; middle of three sisters; quiet, observant, self-effacing; an artist whose detailed drawings predict weather patterns, which the village reads as witchcraft; has spent her life blending into the background, deferring to her bolder sisters; her arc is the discovery that she is not weak or invisible — she is simply unasked; her father taught her to read the constellations and that connection runs through the book
Callum Ross — MMC; reluctant laird; arrived at Cairncross as a favour to a friend (Hamish, Catriona's betrothed from book 1); duty-bound and guarded, reads as gruff and closed-off in the first half; carries a secret promise to his clan that complicates his growing feelings for Freya; thaws when the danger turns real and his protective instincts take over
TROPES
Forced proximity (flight through the Highlands; one-room cottage, one bed)
On the run / fugitives
Grumpy MMC / quiet-sunshine FMC
Protective hero
Sheltered heroine who is made of sterner stuff than anyone knew
Secret promise / duty conflict (MMC)
Witch accusation / superstitious village as external threat
Size difference (noted)
Slow burn with open-door intimate scenes (two)
Scottish setting with post-Culloden historical texture (light; atmospheric rather than heavy)
Series with overlapping timelines; book 3 setup is present throughout
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The three MacLeod sisters were always considered eccentric, some of the villagers even thought them to be witches. As a favor to a friend, Callum and another friend go to help protect the two sisters while the third one is away. When the villagers attack the castle accusing them of murder, Callum flees with Freya. This is the story of their escape and exile. Can they resist their growing mutual attraction? I received an ARC from NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for my honest review.
July 6, 2026
This book was a good continuation of book 1, although it an be read as a standalone. I liked Freya, quirky, shy but fierce when she wants something. Callus was a a typical Scottish laird, grumpy, honor bound, protective. I hated him from keeping his big secret from Freya, like really hated him for that.
Overall the book was entertaining and the resolution of the 3rd act breakup was solid.
#netgalley #HowtoLoseALaird.
Overall the book was entertaining and the resolution of the 3rd act breakup was solid.
#netgalley #HowtoLoseALaird.
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