The Laird’s Christmas Kiss

The Lairds Most Likely #2

by Anna Campbell

Ever since she was fifteen, shy wallflower Elspeth Douglas has pined in vain for the attentions of dashing Brody Girvan, Laird of Invermackie. But the rakish Highlander doesn’t even know she’s alive. Now she’s twenty, she realizes that she’ll never be happy until she stops loving her brother’s handsome friend. When family and friends gather at Achnasheen Castle for Christmas, she intends to show the world that’s she’s all grown up, and grown out of silly crushes on gorgeous Scotsmen. So take that, my gallant laddie!

Girls just want to have fun…

Except it turns out that Brody isn’t singing from the same Christmas carol sheet. Elspeth decides she’s not interested in him anymore, just as he decides he’s very interested indeed. In fact, now he looks more closely, his friend Hamish’s sister is pretty and funny and forthright – and just the lassie to share his Highland estate. Convincing his little wren of his romantic intentions is difficult enough, even before she undergoes a makeover and becomes the belle of Achnasheen. For once in his life, dissolute Brody is burdened with honorable intentions, while the lady he pursues is set on flirtation with no strings attached.

Deck the halls with mistletoe!

With interfering friends and a crate of imported mistletoe thrown into the mix, the stage is set for a house party rife with secrets, clandestine kisses, misunderstandings, heartache, scandal, and love triumphant.

Genres: Historical Romance, Christmas, Romance, Historical, Novella, Holiday, Amazon

229 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 27, 2018

About the author

I've written 53 bestselling historical romances: 11 multi-award winning books for Hachette Grand Central Publishing and Avon HarperCollins, and more than 40 as an independently published author, These include my popular series The Sons of Sin (6 books), The Dashing Widows (7 books), The Lairds Most Likely (10 books), A Scandal in Mayfair (4 books), and Scoundrels of Mayfair (4 books). My new series, Cinderellas of Mayfair, launched with Sir Hugo Seeks a Wife in 2025.

When I'm not touring the world seeking inspiration for my passionate stories, I live on the beautiful east coast of Australia.

I've always been a voracious reader and I delve into many different genres, as you'll see if you check out my books list. Favorite authors include Dorothy Dunnett, Elly Griffiths, K.J. Charles, and Loretta Chase.

My website is http://www.annacampbell.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/annacampbell...

Twitter: AnnaCampbellOz

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Anna-Campbell/...

Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/anna-...

I love to hear from readers and you can contact me on AnnaCampbellOz@hotmail.com

Reviews

[Jonetta · Rating 4 out of 5]

For five years, 20-year old Elspeth Douglas has pined over Brody Girvan, the rakish Laird of Invermackie. He’s also friends with her brother, Hamish, and Fergus Mackinnon’s cousin. Now, she’s decided that it’s time to put childish feelings behind her and move on. Brody, however, has spent the past year taking stock of himself and isn’t pleased with what he’s discovered. He decides it’s time to put aside his irresponsible behavior and pursue a life of more substance. When he’s invited to Fergus’ annual Christmas gathering at Achnasheen Castle, his attention turns to young Elspeth and he’s doubly intrigued when she doesn’t immediately respond to his charming ways.

I loved how the tables were turned on Brody in this story. He’s a man who was accustomed to ladies always falling for his seductive behavior. Elspeth is the “afterthought” child in her family, perceived by them as a mouse because of her quiet nature and bookish tendencies. She’s come into her own, feeling more confident now that she’s let go of her fascination with this man. Brody had to work hard to overcome his reputation and prove his worth. I also loved how Elspeth asserted herself not only to Brody but her family while staying true to the norms of the era.

This was a delightful story with the Christmas season as the backdrop serving to make it even more festive. Elspeth is a wonderfully designed character and Brody the perfect man to highlight her strengths. His transformation was also heartwarming as he struggled to get friends, family and Elspeth to see his heart and get beyond the well-earned opinions of him. There are beautiful themes illustrated in this story, which made it even more interesting.

(I received a complimentary copy from the author in exchange for an unbiased review)

[Stacey · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's amazing what a bit of maturity can bring...

I couldn't help but feel a little sorry for poor Brody in The Laird's Christmas Kiss. Just because he had a wee bit of fun carousing while he was young, does not mean that he can't one day grow up and realise there's more to life. When push came to shove, his "mates" didn't think he was a good marriage prospect. His "mates" didn't think he was capable of having feelings for one woman alone. His "mates" thought he'd be more interested in drinking and gambling than having a family. To be honest, his "mates" weren't particularly nice.

But, then again, Brody was falling for his "mates" sister and cousin, Elspeth, so maybe they were right to be so judgey. It probably didn't help that they also knew Elspeth had loved him from afar for the last 5 years...and he never noticed her.

Poor Elspeth spent a lot of time as the little mouse hiding in the dark. Her family has always treated her differently and she's never fit in with their looks and confidence. Elspeth has been quite happy keeping to herself. She sits back and observes her surroundings, especially when the gorgeous Brody, Laird of Invermackie, is around. But, he doesn't even know she's there. Elspeth is just his friends quiet and frumpy sister and cousin. One day Elspeth decides she's had enough of the dark and the unrequited love. It's time to come into the light and forget about the Laird who doesn't even know her name...or so she thought.

I really enjoyed this sweet little love story. I loved seeing Elspeth gain confidence and acknowledge that while she's different from her family, she's just as good as them. The additional characters I've met before were a pleasure to catch up with again. The Laird's Christmas Kiss was such an easy read to get sucked into, and each page flew by. It felt like I blinked and it was over.

At times I was a little frustrated with how Elspeth and Brody were treated. Elspeth's mother seemed like a self-centred cow and Brody's "mates", Elspeth's brother and cousin, were horrible. I can't wait for Hamish and Diarmid to find their love, because Elspeth and Brody owe a little payback.

The shining star of this story was definitely Marina, the heroine from The Laird's Willful Lass. Her defence and willingness to help Elspeth was something that SHOULD have been coming from her own mother. Marina is still as loving, thoughtful and strong as she was when I first met her. I loved seeing her happily married to Fergus.

I definitely recommend this sweet and short historical romance. Anna Campbell is an author I can count on for a great highland romance and a sneak under the Laird's kilt.

[Tracy Emro · Rating 5 out of 5]

In this installment of the Lairds Most Likely Series, rakish Brody Girvan, Laird of Invermackie meets his match in the shy, bookish Elspeth Douglas, sister of his friend Hamish.

Elspeth Douglas is with her family at Achnasheen with Fergus and Marina for the Christmas holidays. Brody is also there, but this year will be different, Elspeth has decided that the handsome laird will never be interested in her and is determined to end her silly girlish infatuation once and for all.

Brody has grown tired of his libertine lifestyle and has come to Achnasheen to spend the holiday with his cousin and his new wife, see them so in love just reiterates his discontent. When he meets Elspeth in the breakfast room, she ignores him - WHAT? Lassies NEVER ignore him, why that intrigues him, he doesn't know, but he wonders how he missed really seeing her in all the years they have known each other. He flirts with her and invites her to go for a ride, but they are interrupted by her cousin Diarmid before she answers. Later Elspeth has a conversation with Marina that ends with an offer to give Elspeth a makeover. The results are amazing - gone is the little brown mouse, now she is dressed to emphasize her lush figure and her gorgeous hair. Everyone notices, especially Brody.

For days Brody has been consumed with thoughts of Elspeth, he even asked her brother for permission to court her. He is not sure what he feels for her, but it is like nothing he has ever known before and he can't imagine marrying anyone else. But his reputation will cause problems, with Elspeth and their family and friends. When they are caught in a heated kiss and he proposes, she turns him down flat - even at the risk of being disowned by her mother.

Can Brody prove to Elspeth that his proposal was more than duty? That she is the light of his dark life and without her, nothing seems to matter? Or will her insecurities blind her to his love?


I absolutely loved this novella, it was well written, paced nicely, gave glimpses of Fergus and Marina's HEA, had witty banter, steamy love scenes, great secondary characters and a sigh worthy declaration. It is the second book in the series, but it can easily be read as a stand alone title.

[Helen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Anna Campbell writes the best stories and she never fails to make me smile and leave me feeling wonderful after reading one of her them and this one is a beauty, what more could a romance reader want than a gorgeous Scottish hero a heroine finding her daring and her love finally at Christmas time in Scotland, I suggest you make yourself very comfortable to read this one because you won’t want to put it down.

Elspeth Douglas the after- thought in the family the little mouse who doesn’t say a lot but loves to get lost in a book, but she is very stubborn as her brother will agree with and she has had a major crush on one of her brother Hamish’s friends Brody Girvan since she was sixteen and there is a Christmas party going on and where they are both attending and Elspeth decides that her crush is just that and it is time to get over Brody, and get on with her life, but sometimes things can change beautifully.

Brody is a rake and has been living the good life for some time now but he has been feeling kinda different and thinking more about the future and being with his friends for Christmas he starts to notice the beautiful Elspeth and sets his sights on her, which seems to shock a few people at the party including Elspeth, but there is no denying the pull he has to his little wren.

I loved this story from start to finish, with such witty banter, I loved Brody and Elspeth what a gorgeous couple, and this one is sensual, exciting and fun as they have a few ups and downs to get to the place they should be, married and looking forward to a wonderful future. This is a story that I highly recommend MS Campbell writes beautifully, she has such a fabulous voice for her stories, and I never miss one, thank you MS Campbell another story for the keeper shelf and I am really looking forward to Hamish and Diarmid’s stories.

[Carol Cork *Young at Heart Oldie* · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have read and enjoyed several of Anna Campbell’s Christmas stories and this delightful novella was no exception.

For the past year, Brody has been unhappy; his hedonistic lifestyle had begun to pall and he is feeling aimless and lost when he arrives at Achnasheen Castle for Christmas. I love how, for the first time, he actually sees Elspeth. To her family she is a ‘wee mouse’, but to Brody she is intelligent, interesting and pure of heart and he is perceptive enough to notice her beauty and charm. I love how his actions reveal an honourable man when he steps up to offer marriage because he believes he has compromised Elspeth’s reputation.

Elspeth may appear dull and mousy but when she makes up her mind to do something, nothing deters her. I saw this in her determination to forget her childish infatuation for Brody and enjoyed seeing a more mature and confident Elspeth emerging. It was satisfying to see her turn the tables on Brody by indulging in a no strings attached flirtation with him and discover what it felt like to be pursued by a rake, when she held all the cards.

Poor Brody has his work cut out convincing Elspeth that his love is sincere, given his past reputation. His friends, Elspeth’s brother, Hamish, and her cousin, Diarmid, certainly don’t help matters because they don’t seem to regard him as a worthy suitor for Elspeth.

I enjoyed seeing Brody and Elspeth discovering things about each other but also about themselves during the course of the story. They are such a likeable couple and I was rooting for them. There maybe trials and tribulations but the spirit of Christmas prevails and love wins through in the end.

“Oh, Brody, you make me so happy. This morning, I thought I’d never be happy again.”
He stared into her face, recognizing her as his destiny. “I’ll do my best to make ye happy for the rest of your life.”
Her lips curled in a smile that expressed a universe of joy. For the first time, he genuinely believed that she did love him.
“I’d love that.
“I love you.”
“And I love you.”
“So?”
She laughed, and the warm sound rippled down his backbone and settled in his heart. “Of course I’ll marry you, Brody.”

I love Marina for the way in which she supports and encourages Elspeth, unlike her mother who is more interested is gaining influence as a political hostess than her daughter’s happiness. I hate how she denigrates Elspeth at every opportunity.

Having met Fergus and Marina in this novella, I definitely want to read their story in The Laird’s Willful Lass, the first book in the series. I am also looking forward to seeing Hamish and Diarmid brought to their knees by love and sincerely hope that Brody and Elspeth get the chance to gloat!

MY VERDICT: A real holiday treat from one of my favourite authors.

The Lairds Most Likely series so far (click on the book covers for more details):



**In the interests of full disclosure, I received a copy of this novella as a gift from the author. It is my personal choice to write this review and these are my honest thoughts about the story.**

This review was first published on the Rakes and Rascals blog:

https://rakesandrascals.wordpress.com...

[Rose Blue · Rating 4 out of 5]

As reviewed at Roses Are Blue: https://wp.me/p3QRh4-P9

Brody Girvan, Laird Invermackie, deserves his rakish reputation. The handsome and charming laird has spent the last several years enjoying life, society, and women. But over the last year he’s noticed a restlessness, a dissatisfaction with his lifestyle. While attending a Christmas gathering of family and friends, Brody comes down to breakfast early, feeling out-of-sorts after his previous evening of excessive drinking. The only other person at breakfast is a young lady, his friend, Hamish’s, sister. Though she’s been at these gatherings for years, it just comes to his attention how lovely she is. When Brody tries to start a conversation with her, he’s shocked to find that his usual charm is met with sullen looks and total disinterest.

Elspeth Douglas is the epitome of the quiet wallflower who stays in the background. Her family calls her “Mouse,” and she is unlike her other siblings, who all take after their mother, with their tall, golden looks. She is short, dark, and curvy, and takes after her father. For five years, Elspeth has been in love with Brody, though he’s never paid her the least bit of attention. This year, she’s determined that things will change. Elspeth gives herself a stern talking-to, deciding firmly to put Brody from her mind, and to move forward with her life. How ironic that he now seeks her out and wants to spend more time with her!

Brody is intrigued that Elspeth isn’t awed by his charm and good looks. She doesn’t flirt or flatter him. For the first time in his life, Brody thinks about settling down, and believes he may have found the perfect woman to be his wife. While Elspeth suspects that Brody’s attention to her is due to the lack of any other young lady available, she decides to have a bit of fun without putting her heart in danger. With the help of her hostess, Marina, Elspeth makes some changes to her wardrobe, ditching her dowdy clothes for more colorful and flattering dresses. Marina’s maid also styles Elspeth’s hair in a softer, becoming style which flatters her face. When the new and improved Elspeth makes her appearance, Brody is surprisingly disappointed. It’s not that he doesn’t find her more beautiful than ever – he does – but now her loveliness is blatant for everyone to see, not just him.

Amidst the mistletoe and other holiday festivities, Brody and Elspeth begin their new relationship, though each has a different goal in mind. Their attraction leads to some heated kisses and encounters, with Elspeth thinking only to enjoy the moment and the attentions of a handsome man, while Brody is working his way up to a proposal. One of those secret meetings soon becomes not-so-secret, and before long, the whole population of the house party is involved, with everyone shouting their opinion. This scene is so vivid, that I actually saw it play out in my mind. The near fights, the accusations, the threats, all of the chaos is amusing while actually being very sad.

Elspeth refuses Brody’s proposal, which she feels was forced, due to their being caught alone together, while he’s hurt that she doesn’t care enough to accept him. It’s going to take a Christmas miracle for this couple to get together, as well as for all of the quarreling relatives to reconcile.

I adore a story about a wallflower, and I really liked Elspeth. I actually would have liked to see her make Brody’s pursuit a little more difficult, but five years of pining is a lot to overcome. Her transformation was lovely, and it was great to see her self confidence bloom. It took longer for me to love Brody, as he did start off as quite shallow, but he was clearly maturing and changing. I felt the initial mistakes they made were due to their both being so young. THE LAIRD’S CHRISTMAS KISS is both light, yet serious, as it showcases family dynamics, insecurities, friendships, and misunderstandings. But most of all, it’s a warm and entertaining holiday romance with a satisfying happy ever after.

[Lu · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sweet Highlands Christmas Story

3,5 stars rounded to 4
Sweet short story of a shy and curvaceous lass and the laird she has been in love with since childhood.

[Juliana Philippa · Rating 2 out of 5]

Okay, so if this is your first Anna Campbell, do NOT judge her by this book (though given the ratings thus far, it seems like I may be alone in this). Campbell can write a killer novella—Her Christmas Earl (5 stars, my review) and A Match Made in Mistletoe (4 stars, my review)—and novel—Midnight Wild's Passion (4 stars, my review).

When it came to this one though ... wow, I was rolling my eyes within a few pages. It was just so over-the-top and not believable. We start off with our heroine giving herself a talking to that she's not going to be in love with the hero anymore (if one can even call it love—it was basically a schoolgirl's infatuation). Now, of course, within 5 minutes of him starting to notice her, all that has changed, though she keeps scolding herself for forgetting her new vow.

Now let's come to him noticing her. He wakes up hungover, comes down to breakfast, she's the only one there, and WOAH, although they've spent the holidays with each other for years and she's one of his closest friends' younger sisters, all of a sudden she has beautiful, intelligent eyes and her standoffish ways are fascinating to him—because normally girls just bat their eyelashes at him and giggle, we hear this from him time and time again. Now by 13% (13%!!!) we're already having him start to fall for her, wanting to kiss her in a room full of their friends and family, squeezing her hand at "the hint of wistfulness in her voice"—I'm sorry, but come on.

It was all too much for me, and too many books, WAY too little time, decided to stop while I was not ahead. I was disappointed, because I do so love the shy, quiet heroines, but they both came off as immature (she's 20, he's 25), her love for him is substantiated by nothing, and his sudden feelings shift for her makes no sense and its speed is over-the-top.

[Elaine · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved it!

[Peggy M · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love Anna Campbell’s Christmas stories! Every year I look forward to it.
This story had the perfect mix between sweet, fun, passionate and being emotional.

Although ‘The laird’s Christmas kiss’ is the second book in ‘The lairds most likely’ series you don’t have to read the first book to enjoy this one. But for the people who did read it, they will be glad to know that Fergus and Marina (from the first book) are also present in this story.

I was really intrigued after reading the blurb. What do you do when the guy that you have been dreaming of for many years suddenly looks at you with interest in his eyes? Just when you have decided that you don’t want him anymore? Do you change your mind? Or do you stand by your decision to forget him? Well, Elspeth stands with her decision to ignore Brody during this Christmas party but Brody doesn’t like that because the more time he spends with Elspeth the more he’s convinced that he discovered something special. But Elspeth may be shy, she’s also very stubborn. Brody may be experienced with the ladies but he may need more than that if he wants to win Elspeth’s heart. But just when Brody thinks that he has won it, a scandal and family members are getting between them. Now, he will need a Christmas miracle to get the woman that he wants!

I enjoyed this Christmas story very much. Both character were very lovable. I found it interesting to see how both of them grew and blossomed. I enjoyed the interaction between both of them. The second characters were also great and the story was very easy to read.
You get both POV’s in this story and you also get a bit of a Scottish brogue, so be prepared for a very Scottish Christmas in the Highlands.

[HR-ML · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Scottish Highlands 1818.

Elspeth's family invalidated her shy, bookish ways, espec-
ially her mother, who called her a "shy mouse" and implied
this dtr was dull, drab, dowdy and too plump. Mom needed
to sit in a closet and work on an art project, until she learned
to modulate her voice & negativity. BTW, Brodie preferred
curvy women.

Elspeth secretly loved (H) Brodie, friend of her bro Hamish
& cousin Diarmed. Brodie relished his rake image, but in the
last year it felt shallow and selfish to him. He asked Ham
permission to court the h. His best friends including Ham,
reacted with skepticism that the H could change. Brodie
struggled with his emotions and the rejection he felt from
the h. But we saw the love build. Brodie had to prove he'd
changed.

[Merimeri · Rating 3 out of 5]

Novela entretenida para pasar el rato, para no mucho más.

[Julia · Rating 2 out of 5]

Elsbeth has been in love with her brother's friend Brody for years. However, he never notices her. So after years of unrequited love she decides she doesn't want him anymore and exactly that day he notices her for the first time.
Sigh..
Well it was a quick read that was somewhat entertaining. The story wasn't very special and very predictable and some dialogues were too long or repetitive. The romantic parts were a bit unrealistic. I also had to cringe a few times about certain sexual comments Brody made towards Elsbeth. Isn't he supposed to behave better towards a sister of a friend? Ah well. It was okay. Therefore 2 🌟.

[Candace N · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Laird’s Christmas Kiss by Anna Campbell was a very compelling, sweet and heartwarming read. I am always up for a good Christmas story, and wasn’t disappointed with this one. The story is fast paced, extremely hard to put down and full of well developed characters. The writing was wonderful. It was easy to believe and not over the top. Well worth the read. I definitely recommend this short story.

[☽ Rhiannon ✭ Mistwalker ☾ · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was fun of short and sweet. I like the (somewhat) insecure heroine and rake hero and ensuing angst.

[Michelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sometimes you just need a short, sweet, heartwarming Christmas romance.
Add in a wallflower who I can completely relate to and a sexy Scottish hero and I'm sold!
Anna Campbell never disappoints!

[Rose · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Laird’s Christmas Kiss is the second book in The Lairds Most Likely Series by author Anna Campbell. What a wonderful story and a great addition to this series!

Brody Girvan, Laird of Invermackie is a rake and everyone knows it. But what people don't know is that in the last year he's been feeling bored and dissatisfied with his life. He's ready for a change...

Elspeth Douglas is the youngest and quietest of five children and tends to cling to the sidelines and observe, not feeling she's worthy to join in. She's been in love with Brody since she was barely sixteen. After five years of feeling rejected and disregarded, she's decided to grow up and forget her silly infatuation of the handsome highlander.

I really loved this couple & oh my how fun it was to watch these two actually spend some time together and start to get to know each other better. Both are shocked at the other's attention or lack of... Now that Brody has finally noticed Elspeth, her struggle to believe in it was real... With familiar characters from the previous book and Anna Campbell's witty dialogue this was one of those books I just couldn't put down! Highly recommend and look forward to Diarmid’s story next!

[Barbee · Rating 5 out of 5]

📚📚📚BOOK🎄REVIEW📚📚📚

Book: The Laird’s Christmas Kiss
by Anna Campbell

Series: The Lairds Most Likely,
Book #2

Book Type: Novella, 170 pages

Reviewed by: Barb Massabrook of Tartan Book Reviews
Celtic World of Historical Book Reviews
Purple Tulip Book Reviews
Celtic Barb's Tartan Book Review Blog

Heat Rating: 🔥

Rating: 5/5 Stars

Achnasheen Castle, Western Highlands of Scotland
December, 1818

Wallflower, introvert, with low self esteem and little confidence is Elspeth Douglas. She has been infatuated with her brother Hamish’s friend, Brody Girvan, Laird of Invermackie,since she was fifteen years old. Yet he doesn't even know she exists! Of course even her family doesn't help her build any confidence, treating her like an oddity. Elspeth feels Brody is the opposite of her, gorgeous, brave, wild, flirt, gambler,womanizer, and a bit spoiled and always having his way. Not the type anyone would want to court ones shy, wallflower, bookish, sister!

Well Elspeth is twenty years old now, tired of being a doormat and ignored in this unrequited love! So she has decided to turn a new leaf and forget all about Brody Girvan and move on!

Brody has not been happy with his meaningless life of womanizing and gambling ways for the past year and a half. He is looking for something more. He strikes up a conversation with the shy Elspeth and sees her beauty beyond her tightly bound hair and school girl clothing covering all her lovely curves, beautiful eyes and creamy skin. He sees her intelligence and wit as well, and realizes she is the lass for him. A lass who has always been right in front of him the entire time. The lass he wants, desires, yearns and craves for beyond anything else.

Yet Elspeth just feels she is the only available woman at their small holiday house party. It is harmless meaningless flirtation that doesn't mean a thing to him. She is just happy she doesn't love him anymore. Or is she? Then she gets a makeover, from Fergus’s new Italian, artistic, wife, and Brody gives her even more attention she is certain because the ugly duckling turned into a beautiful swan. Yet it helps her confidence too, although Brody is not overwhelmed by this due to his own insecurities and fear of male competition. As he has known she was beautiful no matter what she wore. Now the entire world will know too.

Plus she seems to reject him just as he opens his heart. Will she ever believe the man she has loved for the past five years could ever love her back? I recommend to read this wonderful Christmas romance and find out!

Another beautiful Scottish historical Christmas holiday romance book by Anna Campbell. This is the second book in her Lairds Most Likely series. I loved this one as much as the first. It is the perfect type of story about love, faith, confidence and trust. About a forgotten lass and an overconfident lad and soon the tables turn and the opposite happens. Even in. Yet it's Christmastime a time for magic, belief and the power of love. Anything is possible at Christmas!

I absolutely loved this story and the multidimensional characters kept me on my toes. Another riveting story that I couldn't put down! I highly recommend The Laird’s Christmas Kiss by Anna Campbell.

Disclaimer: I received this book from the author for a fair and honest review. I voluntarily agreed to read, review, blog it. All words, ideas and thoughts are my own.

The Lairds Most Likely Series
By Anna Campbell

1)The Laird’s Willful Lass
2) The Laird’s Christmas Kiss

Amazon Buy Link:

https://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_no...

[Carlene Michalk · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a charming holiday read!

This is my first book by this author, and it surely will not be the last because I highly enjoyed this little holiday novel. I found out about it on a historical romance group on Facebook and I was curious about all of the books she published. So, I tried the holiday one because I was in such a holiday spirit.

The story was very adorable with the main cast. Even though I have not read the first book in the series I highly enjoyed this with the other characters as well which I think this could also be read as a standalone.
The story is about a woman that is easily overlooked by other people, and of course her family! She is not as beautiful as everyone else but, she has been in love with her brother’s best friend for years but he overlooked her as well. Now,she has a choice to stop hurting herself by living a dream that she cannot have it so she tries to stop her emotions. And of course, the man who finally noticed that his best friends sister that he overlooked,Actually caught his eye and he found himself falling in love with her.

The characters:
Elspheth Douglas, she is a wallflower that is overlooked. She does have a certain shyness at first but, she slowly grows during the story.I found myself giggling at some of her lines and, telling how she feels especially when she tells Brody that she’s not interested. During some part of the story I actually felt bad for her and yet rooted for her.She was just the amount of strong that I liked in a character.

Brody Girvan, a rakish Highlander that noticed that he had easily overlook his best friend sister and, he would do anything to win Elspeth’s heart even if he hast to hang mistletoe all over the place. He was very charming while trying to have honor with trying to make Elspeth fall for him. It was A little sad that his friends held little regard for him but, it’s seem to get better as the story went on. But he did not let that stop him from trying to win Elspeth.

It was absolutely adorable seeing them together and rooting for the couple to actually admit their feelings for each other. There were times where I was so worried for them. But I don’t want to spoil that much in this review. I mean these two are so totally cute I really didn’t want to put the book down. The other Supporting characters were amazing as well and I wanted to read more about them. Which I guess are in the other books that I yet have to read. The story was a very charming little read and I highly enjoyed it and I recommend it to any historical romance fan that likes a little holiday in their novels.

[Shelagh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Witty and charming, The Laird’s Christmas Kiss is a Christmas story to savour. There is so much to love about this book. It’s set in Scotland, and who doesn’t love the idea of a snowy Scottish winter? Then there are Brody and Elspeth — I love those names — who are both in their own ways utterly endearing.
Elspeth is the mouse of her family, tiny and quiet, yet clearly no fool. She’s worshipped Brody from afar since she was fifteen and as the story opens she is telling herself it is time to grow up, accept that he is not for her and move on with her life. Brody, meanwhile, has spent years living the life of a rake but has recently begun to feel his life is empty. For the first time in years he notices Elspeth and realises that she’s more than a timid little wren, she’s beautiful.
With Brody’s friends, Elspeth’s cousins and brother, all knowing just what a rake he is and with Elspeth having chosen to give up on her unrequited love, this story has plenty of opportunity for fierce words, plenty of banter and a host of interesting situations for both Elspeth and Brody to find themselves in as each begins to realise that what they feel for the other is the real thing. I simply adored this story. It’s everything you could possibly wish for in an escapist romance and one I will thoroughly enjoy rereading. Congratulations to author Anna Campbell on having written a truly sterling novel.

[Brenda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Since she was fifteen, shy wallflower Elspeth Douglas has pined in vain for the attentions of dashing Brody Girvan,her brother’s handsome friend. Now she decides she isn't interested in her brother's friend anymore.
As Brody looks more closely, his friend Hamish’s sister is pretty and funny and forthright – and just the lassie to share his Highland estate.
Convincing Elspeth of his romantic intentions is hard enough, but then Elspeth undergoes a makeover that turns her into the Belle of the ball.
Will love triumph over a house full of interfering friends, misunderstandings and kisses under the mistletoe?
I loved this delightfully funny Christmas novella.
Full of misunderstood best intentions with a crowd that interferes at every turn these star crossed lovers may never get together.
I gave this book 4.5 of 5.0 stars for storyline and characterization. This novella is full of stolen kisses and gets 3 of 5 flames for intimacy.
Given that this is book #2 of this series and that I haven't read book #1 I find no reason that you can't enjoy each one as a standalone.
I have read other books by Anna Campbell and always enjoy what she creates.

[Susanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another wonderful series progresses with book 2 of the Highland series, Lairds Most Likely. I love seeing characters from the first book, how their 'lives' have progressed and how they help friends and family to find their way to their own HEA.
Anna Campbell is skilful in creating the world of her characters and the Highlands is as much a character and a star as the people.
Elspeth and Brody have a background that makes the short time frame of their story work. While there is a lot of back and forth between them, the scenes as they work out what they mean to each other are delicious. It's also a lovely feeling by the end as they realise each of them is much more than they've believed of themselves. They offer hope that people can find who they truly are and make changes, if they make a conscious decision and work for that goal.
I can't wait to see Hamish and Diarmid meet their matches in upcoming stories.

[Linda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Brody Girvan, Laird of Invermackie. Also, is quite the ladies man.He inherited his title after his father died.He was having a hard time accepting his father's death.So he went away and now leads the life of a rogue.Elspeth Douglas who has grown up with Brody since childhood . She has been infatuated with him.He is so handsome and a physique to go along with it. Elspeth thinks she does not exist in his eyes.She is tired of wasting time and being ignored by him. Elspeth decides she's not interested in him anymore. Just as Brody decides he is very interested in her.He just has to convince Elspeth of his romantic intentions. While Elspeth puts herself in makeover mode and has become very flirtatious.Good read.Fun laughable characters with secrets and scandal.Misunderstandings that lead to a Triumphant Happy Ending!!! I received this book for free from Ebook Discovery. I volunteered to review it and this is my honest review.

[Dani · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book.

I love plots where our heroine has had a crush on the Hero who otherwise doesn't even really notice her existance.

In this story we have our Heroine who has had a crush on her brothers friend since she was very young and understandably our Hero has really not noticed her as a romantic interest. After all not only is she a child to him but his friends sister none the less.... the unwritten rule, sisters are not an option.

Our Heroine has finally had enough and has decided to move on. He is never going to notice her as a woman so why waste her time and she has the perfect opportunity to show everyone she has moved on - the Christmas gathering.
Well our Hero has a different agenda as he finally see's her for who she is...the perfect woman for him and he plans on getting her.

This story was great not only was there a good plot with the H&H but the additional characters really bring the story together. Fun read.

[Cheryl · Rating 4 out of 5]

I did enjoy this story, although not quite as much as the first in the series. Elspeth had been in the shadow of her family for all her life. I was glad when Elspeth decided that she was ready to show people who she really was and thanks to Marina, she did. Brody Girvan, Laird of Invermackie, was a man she and loved for a long time. Brody had a wild reputation, but lately had began to be dissatisfied with his life. I liked that he saw Elspeth for herself before she changed her appearance. However, his reputation is a hindrance to his plans for the future. I enjoyed meeting up with Marina and Fergus and the rest of the family. This was an entertaining read with an endearing ending when true feelings are expressed.
I received a copy from eBooks Discovery and have voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a Christmas gift. Delightful!

This couple made me grin from the very start. Young unrequited love, the man who needs spectacles and mistletoe all around the castle. How can there NOT be love.

Brody has tired of his rakish life and has started to examine how he has been living. He discovers he is not happy with what he finds. He wants more. He wants what his friend Fergus has...love and a good wife. He's just not sure where to find it.

Elspeth has given up on her "infatuation" of Brody. With the help of a friend our shy, bookish, wallflower turns into the lovely butterfly she has been hiding.

This is a very quick realization for Brody, like a slap up side the head. They are sweet together, each unsure how to proceed and protect their hearts. Elspeth discovers unknown strength and Brody finds his life.

[Bettye McKee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Elspeth makes a vow

Elspeth Douglas has wallowed in unrequited love for Brody Girvan since she was 15 years old. She is aware that Brody is an unrepentant rake and that he would never be interested in a shy little mouse like her.

When the friends gather for Christmas, Elspeth makes a vow to herself that she will no longer pine for Brody, that she will cast off that useless emotion and act like an adult. When Brody tries to make conversation, she gives him short answers and basically ignores him. This surprises Brody; he is accustomed to fluttering eyelashes and simpering smiles.

I enjoyed reading this story and following the unconventional courtship of Elspeth and Brody.

2

[Kat Tolle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh that childhood crush that never goes away! The Laird’s Christmas Kiss by Anna Campbell is book 2 in The Lairds Most Likely series. Though in a series this can be read as a standalone. How I just loved how the tables turned in this story and you will understand what I mean when you read this book. Anna has an amazing talent for detail and her characters are just wonderful. Oh I just adore holiday themed stories and this one takes place at a house party which is even better. This regency story has a transformation, misunderstandings judgement in character, a rogue, family love and support, flirtation, a new friendship, lack of will power and of course mistletoe. I highly recommend this book!

***This book was gifted to me and I am voluntarily reviewing.

[Patty · Rating 4 out of 5]

The story of Elsbeth and Brody is mostly sweet and relatively slow moving as the thoughts and reflections of both characters is shared. Elsbeth is a virtually forgotten fourth child who has loved Brody since she was 15. Brody, who is 5 years older, is a laird as well as a young man tired of living a frivolous life of pleasure and pursuing women. Of course these two are destined to spend Christmas together at the same house party. What could possibly happen if each of the characters thinks differently about the other during this encounters compared to the past ? A touch of mistletoe and a dark library are just the beginning. I received this book for free from eBook Discovery. I voluntarily review this book. This is my honest review.

[Margaret Watkins · Rating 5 out of 5]

Although this is a light-hearted historical Christmas romance set in the Highlands, the story is well-written with strong characters. Just when Elspeth comes to the conclusion that she is wasting her time pining after Brody, the blinkers finally come off and Brody sees Elspeth in a new light. Winning her over is more complicated than he had thought and her interfering family don’t help matters at all. I enjoyed this novel and found it highly entertaining. Although this book is part of series and characters from the first book appear in this one too, it is nevertheless a standalone and comes to a happy conclusion. I received this book for free from eBook Discovery. I voluntarily post this review. This is my honest review.