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The Lochmore Legacy #2
Pour le coeur du Highlander (Les Historiques)
A plain Regency governess
In bed with the duke!
Part of The Lochmore Legacy: a Scottish castle through the ages! Unceremoniously packed off to Scotland to care for the Duke of Lochmore’s young son, practical widow Joane Langdale fears she will be ignored as always. But the deep connection and heated passion that develops between her and Benneit is far more dangerous! When Benneit is expected to propose to another, how dare Jo dream of becoming his duchess?
In bed with the duke!
Part of The Lochmore Legacy: a Scottish castle through the ages! Unceremoniously packed off to Scotland to care for the Duke of Lochmore’s young son, practical widow Joane Langdale fears she will be ignored as always. But the deep connection and heated passion that develops between her and Benneit is far more dangerous! When Benneit is expected to propose to another, how dare Jo dream of becoming his duchess?
320 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 1, 2019
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136 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
April 10, 2019
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
💋💋
This has been one of the most intensely touching, emotional and romantic books I’ve ever read . I was captivated by the charm and chemistry of the characters from the first page .
A stunning book that I will gladly recommend to everyone.
You don’t need me to rant on about what the story is about , that’s what the blurb is for .
But if your looking for a book that will entertain you , give you shivers with its slow burn romance , move at a steady, riveting pace , and give you that satisfaction of knowing you just read something epic , look no further you just found it .
I received an Arc copy of this book and I chose to post this review
💋💋
This has been one of the most intensely touching, emotional and romantic books I’ve ever read . I was captivated by the charm and chemistry of the characters from the first page .
A stunning book that I will gladly recommend to everyone.
You don’t need me to rant on about what the story is about , that’s what the blurb is for .
But if your looking for a book that will entertain you , give you shivers with its slow burn romance , move at a steady, riveting pace , and give you that satisfaction of knowing you just read something epic , look no further you just found it .
I received an Arc copy of this book and I chose to post this review
March 28, 2019
Since her husband died, Joane Langdale was the poor relation who went where the Uxmores deemed she would be useful. This is how she became the governess of Jamie, the Duke of Lochmore's four year-old son. It was for a very short time, as Benneit, the duke, was set to marry Lady Tessa McCrieff. Nothing was definitive, but it would contribute to end a long-time riff between the two families, and Jamie needs a mother. Jo and Benneit had been aware of each other the year Jo came out and went largely unnoticed, while Bella, the Uxmore jewel, dazzled Benneit into marrying her. Now widowed, Benneit has become so preoccupied with the duchy's finances, he fears he is not paying enough attention to his son, as the not-so-meek Mrs Langdale almost points out. She is prickly, he seems cold, and their business association appears doomed from the start. They are stubborn, but not stupid, and not as immune to the other's nearness as they initially thought.
Utterly breathtaking. These are the words that came to mind when reading Lara Temple's stunning descriptions of Scotland and how she captures the harsh beauty of the country. The visuals are so astonishing, that even while only reading about it, I was as mesmerised by the majestic landscape and the sea as Jo was. UNLACED BY THE HIGHLAND DUKE is not only a feast of sumptuous imagery with a touch of gothic, but an outstanding character study. As the author slowly peels away the layers, frustration, melancholy, longing for a fuller life surface. I watched in fascination as Jo and Benneit emerge from behind their masks, and I was swept away in this amazing journey of discovery. I loved that there was the tiniest spark of attraction and that it very gradually ignited into an all-consuming fire. It is a thing of beauty to watch a relationship evolve so organically, so naturally, and to be able to truly believe in it. Benneit is torn between love and duty, and because he is so honourable, it took him quite a long time to come to his senses.
I was overwhelmed and enchanted by Ms Temple's sublime prose, her exquisite vocabulary, the rightness of the dialogues, and the impeccable pace sustained throughout the book. I also found quite impressive how seamlessly the story arc flows from book one of The Lochmore Legacy, Janice Preston's The Inconvenient Highland Wedding, as I remembered Tessa, Lord Aberwyld, and the distillery that Benneit aims to build. I didn't think that going back in time to tell the whole story would be so successful, but it is.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I give 4 1/2 stars
Utterly breathtaking. These are the words that came to mind when reading Lara Temple's stunning descriptions of Scotland and how she captures the harsh beauty of the country. The visuals are so astonishing, that even while only reading about it, I was as mesmerised by the majestic landscape and the sea as Jo was. UNLACED BY THE HIGHLAND DUKE is not only a feast of sumptuous imagery with a touch of gothic, but an outstanding character study. As the author slowly peels away the layers, frustration, melancholy, longing for a fuller life surface. I watched in fascination as Jo and Benneit emerge from behind their masks, and I was swept away in this amazing journey of discovery. I loved that there was the tiniest spark of attraction and that it very gradually ignited into an all-consuming fire. It is a thing of beauty to watch a relationship evolve so organically, so naturally, and to be able to truly believe in it. Benneit is torn between love and duty, and because he is so honourable, it took him quite a long time to come to his senses.
I was overwhelmed and enchanted by Ms Temple's sublime prose, her exquisite vocabulary, the rightness of the dialogues, and the impeccable pace sustained throughout the book. I also found quite impressive how seamlessly the story arc flows from book one of The Lochmore Legacy, Janice Preston's The Inconvenient Highland Wedding, as I remembered Tessa, Lord Aberwyld, and the distillery that Benneit aims to build. I didn't think that going back in time to tell the whole story would be so successful, but it is.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I give 4 1/2 stars
July 7, 2020
I gave this a B+ at All About Romance.
Craving some historical romance comfort food? Then look no further. Unlaced by the Highland Duke, the second book in The Lochmore Legacy linked series of novels, features a widowed pair resigned to a lonely future without love or passion, suddenly surprised to discover their soulmate is someone they met (and dismissed) years ago. The principal characters are appealing, their love story is a low angst, slow burner that’s both tender and affecting, and there’s even a young child who enhances every scene in which he appears. Although this is the second novel in The Lochmore Legacy series, I read it as a standalone and had no problems keeping up with the story or the characters.
Since the death of his wife Bella two years ago, Benneit, Duke of Lochmore, has steadfastly refused to yield to her family’s demands to give over care of their son, Jamie. Ever since the death of his father a year ago they’d lessened the pressure, but Benneit knows it’s only a matter of time before they begin to press him once again. In fact, Unlaced by the Highland Duke begins with a surprise early morning visit from Lady Theale (Bella’s paternal aunt), who shows up at his home determined to take Jamie away with her. She’s accompanied by Mrs. Langdale, a poor cousin whose appearance has changed little in the six years since meeting Benneit met her during Bella’s dazzling season.
After enquiring after Mr. Langdale, Benneit is embarrassed and chagrined to learn he died two years ago, and the meeting gets off to an awkward start. The ensuing conversation goes much as Benneit expects – the Uxmores expect Lady Theale and Mrs. Langdale to bring Jamie to them, but Benneit has no intention of allowing him to go. After angrily dismissing Jamie and Mrs. Langdale from the room, Lady Theale laments Benneit’s poor parenting skills and not-so-subtly insinuates that his bachelor lifestyle is a bad influence on his young son. He informs her that he’s taking Jamie to his estate at Lochmore the following day, and that Jamie will have a new mother soon enough – he’s anticipating an engagement to Tessa McCrieff. The engagement will help secure the finances needed to restore the Lochmore estate and go a long way towards a rapprochement between the two estranged families. While the engagement is good news to Lady Theale, she insists on taking Jamie to the Uxmore estate and then on to school at St. Stephens. Benneit refuses and the conversation appears at an impasse until Lady Theale suggests he take Joane with him to Lochmore to act as a governess. Tired of arguing, he sharply sharply reminds her he’s the one who makes decisions about Jamie, and then acquiesces to her demand. Joane, who spent the entire conversation entertaining Jamie elsewhere, is given no choice in the matter.
The trip to Lochmore is significant for several reasons. Joane proves she’s adept at handling clever, imaginative and mischievous young boys, and their bad-tempered fathers; Jamie falls hard for his new governess; and Lochmore, no longer blinded by Bella’s extraordinary beauty and large personality, realizes Joane isn’t the plain and unremarkable woman he vaguely remembers. He’s intrigued by her and curious (read – jealous) about the man who was once her husband, while Joane isn’t quite sure what to think of Benneit. She assumed he would be arrogant and aloof – and he is those things – but he’s also kind, and she reminds herself that he’s probably changed over the last six years. Although their relationship is strained by their incorrect assumptions about one another, there’s also an unwanted spark of attraction between them, although both work hard to ignore and suppress it.
Unlaced by the Highland Duke unfolds more or less as you might imagine except Benneit and Joane aren’t your typical starry-eyed couple, and this isn’t their first rodeo. They’ve loved (sort of) and lost, and their shared history with Bella adversely affected their suppositions about each other. Most of the opinions they formed six years before are quickly proven misguided or flat out wrong, but neither is in a position to act on their change of heart – despite the intense physical and emotional attachment that develops between them shortly after they journey to Lochmore. Benneit intends to make Tessa his wife, and he struggles to reconcile his new fascination and desire for Joane with what he believes is his duty to Lochmore. Poor management by his father left the estate nearly destitute, his son needs a mother, and a marriage to Tessa will help to repair the rift between the families (the feud between them links all the books in the Lochmore Legacy). Joane longs to be free of the Uxmores and to earn enough money to buy a cottage and make a life for herself alone, and a relationship with Benneit is nowhere in her plans. They fight their attraction throughout the novel, and misunderstandings – largely caused by those pesky assumptions they made about each other long ago – plague the relationship.
I enjoyed the changing dynamic between Benneit and Joane, and when they finally start ‘officially’ liking each other and not pretending otherwise, they make a lovely couple. Their prickly early days give way to a tender affection and eventually a passionate affair. They fight their feelings with an almost desperate desire to avoid falling in love, but fall in love they do – and you root hard for them to figure it out. Both of our principal characters are GOOD people faced with bad choices, resigned to a future apart but willing to accept it. In less capable hands, the potential love triangle between Tessa, Benneit and Joane might have been a sordid mess, but Ms. Temple takes a different approach. Tessa is a kind and sweet friend to Joane and she recognizes what her friends do not – that they are destined for each other. She doesn’t begrudge them their feelings (and she has other plans!), and I liked this nuanced, sensitive approach to what could have been an ugly rivalry, and Tessa’s kindness is mirrored in Joane and Benneit’s love for each other. This is a gentle and sweet and charming and tender story – and the principal and secondary characters are mostly that, too.
While the romance between Benneit and Joane is the highlight of Unlaced by the Highland Duke, Ms. Temple’s description of Lochmore is also terrific. Scotland is almost another character in the story – one Ms. Temple is clearly fond of. Various secondary characters, Jamie and Angus (Benneit’s manservant), make memorable appearances, as does Joane’s ever-expanding Great Big List of Things I Did Not Know I Did Not Know, But Now I Know I Don’t list – used to great effect when conversing with Jamie. Joane’s relationship with Jamie is a bonus delight that enhances this story on many levels.
Unlaced by the Highland Duke is more proof that Ms. Temple deserves a place on your auto-buy list, and an excellent addition to The Lochmore Legacy series.
Craving some historical romance comfort food? Then look no further. Unlaced by the Highland Duke, the second book in The Lochmore Legacy linked series of novels, features a widowed pair resigned to a lonely future without love or passion, suddenly surprised to discover their soulmate is someone they met (and dismissed) years ago. The principal characters are appealing, their love story is a low angst, slow burner that’s both tender and affecting, and there’s even a young child who enhances every scene in which he appears. Although this is the second novel in The Lochmore Legacy series, I read it as a standalone and had no problems keeping up with the story or the characters.
Since the death of his wife Bella two years ago, Benneit, Duke of Lochmore, has steadfastly refused to yield to her family’s demands to give over care of their son, Jamie. Ever since the death of his father a year ago they’d lessened the pressure, but Benneit knows it’s only a matter of time before they begin to press him once again. In fact, Unlaced by the Highland Duke begins with a surprise early morning visit from Lady Theale (Bella’s paternal aunt), who shows up at his home determined to take Jamie away with her. She’s accompanied by Mrs. Langdale, a poor cousin whose appearance has changed little in the six years since meeting Benneit met her during Bella’s dazzling season.
After enquiring after Mr. Langdale, Benneit is embarrassed and chagrined to learn he died two years ago, and the meeting gets off to an awkward start. The ensuing conversation goes much as Benneit expects – the Uxmores expect Lady Theale and Mrs. Langdale to bring Jamie to them, but Benneit has no intention of allowing him to go. After angrily dismissing Jamie and Mrs. Langdale from the room, Lady Theale laments Benneit’s poor parenting skills and not-so-subtly insinuates that his bachelor lifestyle is a bad influence on his young son. He informs her that he’s taking Jamie to his estate at Lochmore the following day, and that Jamie will have a new mother soon enough – he’s anticipating an engagement to Tessa McCrieff. The engagement will help secure the finances needed to restore the Lochmore estate and go a long way towards a rapprochement between the two estranged families. While the engagement is good news to Lady Theale, she insists on taking Jamie to the Uxmore estate and then on to school at St. Stephens. Benneit refuses and the conversation appears at an impasse until Lady Theale suggests he take Joane with him to Lochmore to act as a governess. Tired of arguing, he sharply sharply reminds her he’s the one who makes decisions about Jamie, and then acquiesces to her demand. Joane, who spent the entire conversation entertaining Jamie elsewhere, is given no choice in the matter.
The trip to Lochmore is significant for several reasons. Joane proves she’s adept at handling clever, imaginative and mischievous young boys, and their bad-tempered fathers; Jamie falls hard for his new governess; and Lochmore, no longer blinded by Bella’s extraordinary beauty and large personality, realizes Joane isn’t the plain and unremarkable woman he vaguely remembers. He’s intrigued by her and curious (read – jealous) about the man who was once her husband, while Joane isn’t quite sure what to think of Benneit. She assumed he would be arrogant and aloof – and he is those things – but he’s also kind, and she reminds herself that he’s probably changed over the last six years. Although their relationship is strained by their incorrect assumptions about one another, there’s also an unwanted spark of attraction between them, although both work hard to ignore and suppress it.
Unlaced by the Highland Duke unfolds more or less as you might imagine except Benneit and Joane aren’t your typical starry-eyed couple, and this isn’t their first rodeo. They’ve loved (sort of) and lost, and their shared history with Bella adversely affected their suppositions about each other. Most of the opinions they formed six years before are quickly proven misguided or flat out wrong, but neither is in a position to act on their change of heart – despite the intense physical and emotional attachment that develops between them shortly after they journey to Lochmore. Benneit intends to make Tessa his wife, and he struggles to reconcile his new fascination and desire for Joane with what he believes is his duty to Lochmore. Poor management by his father left the estate nearly destitute, his son needs a mother, and a marriage to Tessa will help to repair the rift between the families (the feud between them links all the books in the Lochmore Legacy). Joane longs to be free of the Uxmores and to earn enough money to buy a cottage and make a life for herself alone, and a relationship with Benneit is nowhere in her plans. They fight their attraction throughout the novel, and misunderstandings – largely caused by those pesky assumptions they made about each other long ago – plague the relationship.
I enjoyed the changing dynamic between Benneit and Joane, and when they finally start ‘officially’ liking each other and not pretending otherwise, they make a lovely couple. Their prickly early days give way to a tender affection and eventually a passionate affair. They fight their feelings with an almost desperate desire to avoid falling in love, but fall in love they do – and you root hard for them to figure it out. Both of our principal characters are GOOD people faced with bad choices, resigned to a future apart but willing to accept it. In less capable hands, the potential love triangle between Tessa, Benneit and Joane might have been a sordid mess, but Ms. Temple takes a different approach. Tessa is a kind and sweet friend to Joane and she recognizes what her friends do not – that they are destined for each other. She doesn’t begrudge them their feelings (and she has other plans!), and I liked this nuanced, sensitive approach to what could have been an ugly rivalry, and Tessa’s kindness is mirrored in Joane and Benneit’s love for each other. This is a gentle and sweet and charming and tender story – and the principal and secondary characters are mostly that, too.
While the romance between Benneit and Joane is the highlight of Unlaced by the Highland Duke, Ms. Temple’s description of Lochmore is also terrific. Scotland is almost another character in the story – one Ms. Temple is clearly fond of. Various secondary characters, Jamie and Angus (Benneit’s manservant), make memorable appearances, as does Joane’s ever-expanding Great Big List of Things I Did Not Know I Did Not Know, But Now I Know I Don’t list – used to great effect when conversing with Jamie. Joane’s relationship with Jamie is a bonus delight that enhances this story on many levels.
Unlaced by the Highland Duke is more proof that Ms. Temple deserves a place on your auto-buy list, and an excellent addition to The Lochmore Legacy series.
March 24, 2021
This was something of a blah read for me. I was in the mood for a low-angst romance, and this certainly fit the bill as far as that goes. I also enjoyed the first book in this series, so I was looking forward to going back a generation and seeing Benneit and Joane find each other.
Benneit, a widower, is courting a wealthy neighbor's daughter in hopes of bringing much-needed capital into his estate as well as a stepmother for his young son. For the moment, Joane Langdale, a widow and also a poor relation of Benneit's former in-laws, has been pushed into service as a companion/governess of sorts for Benneit's son.
Benneit first met Joane several years ago when he was courting her wealthier and beautiful cousin. At the time, he overlooked her much as people had done for most of Joane's life. The author does a good job in this book of showing how a humbler and more mature Benneit comes to appreciate Joane's quieter and calmer nature. His attraction to Joane and his conflicted feelings about the need to marry an heiress felt believable. However, that didn't stop the book from plodding along a bit. Also, rather than leaning into a gentle and lower angst sort of story, the author manufactured conflict, particularly in the second half, that just didn't add to the story. As I sat there reading, I kept thinking, "Just let these people like each other! That would be a perfectly sweet story right there."
If you want to keep up with the Lochmore Legacy series, this one isn't bad. It's just somewhat forgettable.
Benneit, a widower, is courting a wealthy neighbor's daughter in hopes of bringing much-needed capital into his estate as well as a stepmother for his young son. For the moment, Joane Langdale, a widow and also a poor relation of Benneit's former in-laws, has been pushed into service as a companion/governess of sorts for Benneit's son.
Benneit first met Joane several years ago when he was courting her wealthier and beautiful cousin. At the time, he overlooked her much as people had done for most of Joane's life. The author does a good job in this book of showing how a humbler and more mature Benneit comes to appreciate Joane's quieter and calmer nature. His attraction to Joane and his conflicted feelings about the need to marry an heiress felt believable. However, that didn't stop the book from plodding along a bit. Also, rather than leaning into a gentle and lower angst sort of story, the author manufactured conflict, particularly in the second half, that just didn't add to the story. As I sat there reading, I kept thinking, "Just let these people like each other! That would be a perfectly sweet story right there."
If you want to keep up with the Lochmore Legacy series, this one isn't bad. It's just somewhat forgettable.
July 14, 2019
Although I enjoyed this book, it moved along at a much slower pace than the previous book in this series. I liked the main characters of Jo and Benneit and of course, young Jamie. Jo was a determined lady, quite stubborn at times and very independent. Their romance was a slow build but had some passionate and particularly heartfelt moments in the latter stages of the book. I’m on to the next in the series now, I like the concept of moving back in time.
April 14, 2019
Lara Temple's luscious prose paints a beautiful backdrop for characters who are deep and real. The slow-burn romance builds to a conflagration, and the ending is sweet and satisfying. Another gem.
May 8, 2019
Unlaced by the Highland Duke by Lara Temple is the second book in The Lochmore Legacy (a 4 part series written by 4 different authors). Although part of a series it can easily be read as a standalone book.
Joane Langdale has always considered herself plain and unattractive. It came as no surprise to her when Bella, a striking relation of hers, ended up marrying Benneit, the man that Joane found herself in lust with at the time of her coming out.
Since then she herself got married, sadly became a widow, and became the poor relative relying on family to look after her.
In that time Benneit's wife Bella also passed away leaving him a single father to Jamie, an adorable 4-year-old boy. He is planning a marriage of convenience with Tessa McCrieff with the aim of not only ending a long time rift between his and her clan but also to aid him with his plans of opening a whiskey distillery. The engagement isn't official, and until it is, at least 4 weeks, Benneit needs a governess for Jamie. Joane is coerced to take the position.
At first, Benneit only sees Joane as a quiet, plain mouse, but one that his son soon latches onto so he is happy that she is there for him. Over time though he starts to see her in a different light as if she finally has come out of the shadows and shows her real self. She is willing to stand up for both herself and for Jaimie and is defiant when she deems it necessary.
It isn't long before he realises that she is a true beauty, both inside and out. There is an undeniable pull between them both that they both want to give in to. They have to fight it though because he will soon be married and neither of them wants to end up heartbroken.
Can Benneit figure out a way to not marry Tessa and yet still end the feud between the clans? That to him is as important as the marriage enabling him to continue his plans for the distillery. He also, honourable man that he is, doesn't want to hurt Tessa. Is there any way he and Joane can have a happy ever after without losing too much? They certainly end up having some magnificent passionate moments while he tries to figure something out. It was so great when they at least gave in to their feelings even if it could only be temporary.
I enjoyed this book. It was a real delight to read not only because the main characters were so likeable and their story a real pleasure to follow, but also because of where the story takes place. The author's description of the landscape, the buildings, the flora and fauna was just beautifully done. It was so easy to picture the scenes as they took place.
I loved the drama of the story, the risk that Benneit would have to take if he and Joane were to have any future. I loved Jamie who despite sometimes being wilful was a little sweetheart. His relationship with Benneit was a joy to read, their love so special. This was such a feelgood story that it left me with a big smile on my face. I wholeheartedly recommend it.
Joane Langdale has always considered herself plain and unattractive. It came as no surprise to her when Bella, a striking relation of hers, ended up marrying Benneit, the man that Joane found herself in lust with at the time of her coming out.
Since then she herself got married, sadly became a widow, and became the poor relative relying on family to look after her.
In that time Benneit's wife Bella also passed away leaving him a single father to Jamie, an adorable 4-year-old boy. He is planning a marriage of convenience with Tessa McCrieff with the aim of not only ending a long time rift between his and her clan but also to aid him with his plans of opening a whiskey distillery. The engagement isn't official, and until it is, at least 4 weeks, Benneit needs a governess for Jamie. Joane is coerced to take the position.
At first, Benneit only sees Joane as a quiet, plain mouse, but one that his son soon latches onto so he is happy that she is there for him. Over time though he starts to see her in a different light as if she finally has come out of the shadows and shows her real self. She is willing to stand up for both herself and for Jaimie and is defiant when she deems it necessary.
It isn't long before he realises that she is a true beauty, both inside and out. There is an undeniable pull between them both that they both want to give in to. They have to fight it though because he will soon be married and neither of them wants to end up heartbroken.
Can Benneit figure out a way to not marry Tessa and yet still end the feud between the clans? That to him is as important as the marriage enabling him to continue his plans for the distillery. He also, honourable man that he is, doesn't want to hurt Tessa. Is there any way he and Joane can have a happy ever after without losing too much? They certainly end up having some magnificent passionate moments while he tries to figure something out. It was so great when they at least gave in to their feelings even if it could only be temporary.
I enjoyed this book. It was a real delight to read not only because the main characters were so likeable and their story a real pleasure to follow, but also because of where the story takes place. The author's description of the landscape, the buildings, the flora and fauna was just beautifully done. It was so easy to picture the scenes as they took place.
I loved the drama of the story, the risk that Benneit would have to take if he and Joane were to have any future. I loved Jamie who despite sometimes being wilful was a little sweetheart. His relationship with Benneit was a joy to read, their love so special. This was such a feelgood story that it left me with a big smile on my face. I wholeheartedly recommend it.
April 8, 2019
Unlaced by the Highland Duke is the second book in “The Lochmore Legacy” series. I’ve been anxiously waiting for this series since I first heard about it some time ago. What makes this series unique is that there are 4 authors involved and they will each be writing in a different time period going back in time to unravel a mystery.
We first met Joane Langdale (Jo) in the first book in this series by Janice Preston’s “His Convenient Highland Wedding”. I immediately liked Jo and loved her personality in the previous book. So I was excited to hear this book was going to be her story. Jo is the cousin of Benneit’s deceased wife Bella. Being a poorer relation of the Uxmore family she became a companion/servant for them when her husband died. This is how she ends up temporarily becoming a governess for Benneit’s son.
Benneit, the Duke of Lochmore is a widower with a young son, Jamie. With the responsibility of the dukedom and trying to secure his son’s future, he has a heavy weight on his shoulders. Knowing that he will be busy for the next few weeks and feeling guilty that he’s been ignoring his son, he reluctantly agrees to allow Jo to accompany them back to Scotland to help with Jamie.
I absolutely loved this couple! Their romance was one that came on gradually, definitely not a love at first sight. The way Jo was able to frustrate, embarrass and surprise him had Benneit speechless at times and had me smiling. There was definitely a slow burning, underlying awareness of something between them that both fought for awhile. It was a joy to watch them gradually let down their guard and trust and open up to each other. The romance was beautifully paced and as breathtaking as the lush descriptions of the scenery.
Ms. Temple didn’t hold back with this one, it’s definitely one of her best books to date! With fabulous secondary characters, a mystery that connects this series and a breathtakingly beautiful love story it truly is perfect! I highly recommend this book along with the entire series! Loved it!
We first met Joane Langdale (Jo) in the first book in this series by Janice Preston’s “His Convenient Highland Wedding”. I immediately liked Jo and loved her personality in the previous book. So I was excited to hear this book was going to be her story. Jo is the cousin of Benneit’s deceased wife Bella. Being a poorer relation of the Uxmore family she became a companion/servant for them when her husband died. This is how she ends up temporarily becoming a governess for Benneit’s son.
Benneit, the Duke of Lochmore is a widower with a young son, Jamie. With the responsibility of the dukedom and trying to secure his son’s future, he has a heavy weight on his shoulders. Knowing that he will be busy for the next few weeks and feeling guilty that he’s been ignoring his son, he reluctantly agrees to allow Jo to accompany them back to Scotland to help with Jamie.
I absolutely loved this couple! Their romance was one that came on gradually, definitely not a love at first sight. The way Jo was able to frustrate, embarrass and surprise him had Benneit speechless at times and had me smiling. There was definitely a slow burning, underlying awareness of something between them that both fought for awhile. It was a joy to watch them gradually let down their guard and trust and open up to each other. The romance was beautifully paced and as breathtaking as the lush descriptions of the scenery.
Ms. Temple didn’t hold back with this one, it’s definitely one of her best books to date! With fabulous secondary characters, a mystery that connects this series and a breathtakingly beautiful love story it truly is perfect! I highly recommend this book along with the entire series! Loved it!
March 31, 2019
I should start by admitting I have a vested interest because this is part of a series and I'm one of the other authors involved. This doesn't affect my review however, which is unbiased (except for trepidation that Lara's book is a hard act to follow).
Benneit and Joane are both widowed, he with a son, he with little income. When they are thrown together by an interfering relative it makes sense for her to accompany him back to Scotland. Readers of Janice Preston's book will have encountered Joane already so knows they end up together, but watching them dancing around the attraction both know they should ignore is wonderful. The love scenes are totally hot!
The love triangle elements - at the start of the book Benneit is planning to marry Lady Tessa McCrieff before Jo derails his plans - could easily have turned into a show of female rivalry (Jane Eyre and the obnoxious Blanche Ingram spring to mind) but instead Tessa is a warm, sympathetic character and it was great to see the two women supporting each other and not descending into a feud. Thus when everything is wrapped up, it feels completely natural not contrived.
It also suggests that if the Lochmore and McCrieff women had been in charge, the feud would have been a lot shorter lived!
The feud and hint at secrets were introduced in the first book and here the mystery deepens with further discoveries at Lochmore Castle. The castle, beach and surrounding area are vividly brought to life, and become almost a character in themselves.
Benneit and Joane are both widowed, he with a son, he with little income. When they are thrown together by an interfering relative it makes sense for her to accompany him back to Scotland. Readers of Janice Preston's book will have encountered Joane already so knows they end up together, but watching them dancing around the attraction both know they should ignore is wonderful. The love scenes are totally hot!
The love triangle elements - at the start of the book Benneit is planning to marry Lady Tessa McCrieff before Jo derails his plans - could easily have turned into a show of female rivalry (Jane Eyre and the obnoxious Blanche Ingram spring to mind) but instead Tessa is a warm, sympathetic character and it was great to see the two women supporting each other and not descending into a feud. Thus when everything is wrapped up, it feels completely natural not contrived.
It also suggests that if the Lochmore and McCrieff women had been in charge, the feud would have been a lot shorter lived!
The feud and hint at secrets were introduced in the first book and here the mystery deepens with further discoveries at Lochmore Castle. The castle, beach and surrounding area are vividly brought to life, and become almost a character in themselves.
August 14, 2019
This is the second book in the Lochmore Legacy series, and like the first one, I read this in one sitting. The heroine of this book is Joane, who was a secondary character in the first book, His Convenient Highland Wedding. I liked her a lot in that book and was excited to see her front and center in this one. Here Jo is the poor widowed relation of Benneit's late wife. She has spent the last two years in servitude to various members of her family, mostly ignored unless they wanted something. Here we find her packed off to Scotland to care for Benneit's little boy, Jamie.
Benneit is the widowed duke who is fighting battles on several fronts. Most important to him is securing his legacy for his son Jamie, who he adores. To do so, he plans to build a whisky distillery on his land. That requires the cooperation of the neighboring McCrieff laird, a family the Lochmore's have been feuding with for generations. Benneit feels that the best way to solve all his problems is to marry McCrieff's daughter Tessa. This will end the feud, secure the distillery, and give Jamie a mother and eventually, some siblings.
I loved both Benneit and Jo. Though she seems a bit mouse-like and doormatty at first, it doesn't take long to see that there is much more to her. First of all, I loved how she and Jamie took to each other so quickly. Once in Scotland and away from her family, the real Jo emerges. She is intelligent, loving, and can have a wickedly sharp tongue when she wants to. She is grateful for the time in Scotland, away from her family, where she can make her own plans for her future. Benneit comes across as cold and aloof at the beginning as he faces off against his late wife's family. He is not about to submit to their desires to keep young Jamie in England. But it is his love for his son and determination to do what is right for him that shines through. Benneit also feels a profound responsibility for his people, which factors into his decisions.
I loved the development of the relationship between Benneit and Jo. They knew each other from when Benneit courted Bella. Benneit thought of her as a mouse, and Jo just knew that he made her uncomfortable. Six years later they are different people, but with their losses in common. I loved seeing how being away from her family gave Jo the chance to be herself, which manifested in a tendency to be a bit prickly. Benneit was surprised by this unexpected side of her and occasionally found it uncomfortable. Their care for Jamie brought them closer together, though they sometimes clashed over what they thought was best. Unexpected attraction built between them as Jo saw past Benneit's crusty exterior to the caring and vulnerable man inside. He didn't expect how right it felt to be with Jo and the feeling of family it engendered. As the attraction between them grew, dreams and desires butted up against honor and intentions. I loved Benneit's scene with Tessa at the end as he makes the only decision possible for him. His big moment at the end was fantastic.
Besides the irrepressible Jamie, I also liked many of the other secondary characters. I loved the staff at the castle and their outspoken attitudes. Angus was fantastic with his often unsolicited advice and tendency to say, "I told you so." I laughed at Jo's maid Beth and her comments about Jo's ball gown. McCrieff came across as pretty unbending when it came to the various negotiations but surprised me at the end in the confrontation with Benneit and Tessa. I loved Tessa. She was sweet and loving and would have been perfect for Benneit if it hadn't been for Jo. I liked how she and Jo got along rather than having the whole "other woman" vibe going on. I had to laugh at her "banishment" because her appearance in the first book showed how that turned out.
There is only a brief mention of the mystery that began in the first book. There are more hints about the ongoing feud, including comments about Ewan and Marguerite, who are the subjects of the next book in the series. The empty crypt and a mention of the missing brooch also have a place and left me wanting to know more about what happened.
Benneit is the widowed duke who is fighting battles on several fronts. Most important to him is securing his legacy for his son Jamie, who he adores. To do so, he plans to build a whisky distillery on his land. That requires the cooperation of the neighboring McCrieff laird, a family the Lochmore's have been feuding with for generations. Benneit feels that the best way to solve all his problems is to marry McCrieff's daughter Tessa. This will end the feud, secure the distillery, and give Jamie a mother and eventually, some siblings.
I loved both Benneit and Jo. Though she seems a bit mouse-like and doormatty at first, it doesn't take long to see that there is much more to her. First of all, I loved how she and Jamie took to each other so quickly. Once in Scotland and away from her family, the real Jo emerges. She is intelligent, loving, and can have a wickedly sharp tongue when she wants to. She is grateful for the time in Scotland, away from her family, where she can make her own plans for her future. Benneit comes across as cold and aloof at the beginning as he faces off against his late wife's family. He is not about to submit to their desires to keep young Jamie in England. But it is his love for his son and determination to do what is right for him that shines through. Benneit also feels a profound responsibility for his people, which factors into his decisions.
I loved the development of the relationship between Benneit and Jo. They knew each other from when Benneit courted Bella. Benneit thought of her as a mouse, and Jo just knew that he made her uncomfortable. Six years later they are different people, but with their losses in common. I loved seeing how being away from her family gave Jo the chance to be herself, which manifested in a tendency to be a bit prickly. Benneit was surprised by this unexpected side of her and occasionally found it uncomfortable. Their care for Jamie brought them closer together, though they sometimes clashed over what they thought was best. Unexpected attraction built between them as Jo saw past Benneit's crusty exterior to the caring and vulnerable man inside. He didn't expect how right it felt to be with Jo and the feeling of family it engendered. As the attraction between them grew, dreams and desires butted up against honor and intentions. I loved Benneit's scene with Tessa at the end as he makes the only decision possible for him. His big moment at the end was fantastic.
Besides the irrepressible Jamie, I also liked many of the other secondary characters. I loved the staff at the castle and their outspoken attitudes. Angus was fantastic with his often unsolicited advice and tendency to say, "I told you so." I laughed at Jo's maid Beth and her comments about Jo's ball gown. McCrieff came across as pretty unbending when it came to the various negotiations but surprised me at the end in the confrontation with Benneit and Tessa. I loved Tessa. She was sweet and loving and would have been perfect for Benneit if it hadn't been for Jo. I liked how she and Jo got along rather than having the whole "other woman" vibe going on. I had to laugh at her "banishment" because her appearance in the first book showed how that turned out.
There is only a brief mention of the mystery that began in the first book. There are more hints about the ongoing feud, including comments about Ewan and Marguerite, who are the subjects of the next book in the series. The empty crypt and a mention of the missing brooch also have a place and left me wanting to know more about what happened.
April 17, 2019
Oh this story is stunning!
So can I leave it there because I don’t think my words will do this book justice. Let’s just say that I was either smiling or sighing throughout and just fell completely in love with this story.
In this book we meet Joane (Jo) and Benneit let’s just say that Lara Temple has created two beautiful characters. Unlaced by the Highland Duke is a story with a sizzling, dizzying and gorgeous chemistry! I loved how this pair built up a tentative friendship along with seeing the sparks fly whenever they were together. Jo has such a thoughtful, kind and strong personality which makes her so likeable. Then you have Benneit who just wants the best for his young son, he has his flaws but you can see how conflicted he is regarding his feelings. Along with trying to create the best future for his son, I think it’s safe to say I fell for him myself! Lara Temple created the perfect chemistry as it simmers and builds all at a beautiful pace that will make the reader demand they get their happy ever after!
Everything just worked so well from the story, the setting and the characters. Even the minor characters all brought something to the story especially little Jamie. I have to mention the setting because Lara Temple easily brought everything to life with her descriptions from the beach to the castle which in itself feels like a character. The mystery from book one in the Lochmore Legacy continues and I can’t wait to read the next book to discover more. I’m really enjoying seeing this mystery unravel in such a different way as we travel backwards towards solving it. However please don’t worry because this book can be read as a standalone but if you do get chance then I highly recommend reading His Convenient Highland Wedding by Janice Preston.
Once I started this book I didn’t want to put it down, Unlaced by the Highland Duke is a dream of a book!
So can I leave it there because I don’t think my words will do this book justice. Let’s just say that I was either smiling or sighing throughout and just fell completely in love with this story.
In this book we meet Joane (Jo) and Benneit let’s just say that Lara Temple has created two beautiful characters. Unlaced by the Highland Duke is a story with a sizzling, dizzying and gorgeous chemistry! I loved how this pair built up a tentative friendship along with seeing the sparks fly whenever they were together. Jo has such a thoughtful, kind and strong personality which makes her so likeable. Then you have Benneit who just wants the best for his young son, he has his flaws but you can see how conflicted he is regarding his feelings. Along with trying to create the best future for his son, I think it’s safe to say I fell for him myself! Lara Temple created the perfect chemistry as it simmers and builds all at a beautiful pace that will make the reader demand they get their happy ever after!
Everything just worked so well from the story, the setting and the characters. Even the minor characters all brought something to the story especially little Jamie. I have to mention the setting because Lara Temple easily brought everything to life with her descriptions from the beach to the castle which in itself feels like a character. The mystery from book one in the Lochmore Legacy continues and I can’t wait to read the next book to discover more. I’m really enjoying seeing this mystery unravel in such a different way as we travel backwards towards solving it. However please don’t worry because this book can be read as a standalone but if you do get chance then I highly recommend reading His Convenient Highland Wedding by Janice Preston.
Once I started this book I didn’t want to put it down, Unlaced by the Highland Duke is a dream of a book!
July 1, 2019
Unlaced by the Highland Duke by Lara Temple is the next installment in The Lochmore Legacy. I was mesmerized by the writing! The author spares no words to bring beauty and light to Scotland nor does she let her characters trod boring lives. I was swept up in the details, the romance, the mystery of the characters in this story. Joane and Benneit has a ways to go to bridge the gap between. Will their attraction be enough to become something more?
Highly Recommended
5 Stars
Highly Recommended
5 Stars
April 19, 2019
Omg this books so amazing and I love how the passion and tension between Jo and Benneit!! I love how it is set in Scotland and tells bits about the chars actors through out the story!! I highly recommend!!
April 3, 2019
Firstly, before I waffle on about men in kilts – you know it’s going to happen 😉 let me say Lara Temple you have seriously outdone yourself with this beautiful, beautiful book! I found writing this review so hard, not that it isn’t good the complete opposite that this book is way too good to be true, I couldn’t find the right words. This book is testament to the fact that Lara Temple is a master in writing Regency Romance and I am in absolute awe of this fine ladies work.
This is book two in The Lochmore Legacy series, even though you can very easily read them as stand-alone’s I highly recommend that you do read all the series (once all four are released, of course) as there is links that are starting to emerge from the previous book; His Convenient Highland Wedding and I would hate for you to miss out on the mystery that is slowly being unravelled.
Widowed Joane a poor relation of the Duke of Lochmore’s late wife; Bella. Being from a poorer branch of the great Uxmore’s she is used to being basically ignored and treated as nothing more than a servant. She is then unceremoniously passed to the Duke of Lochmore as a governess for his young son Jamie; who is such an adorable and entertaining young lad. Benneit is in the middle of securing a marriage deal between him and Lady Tessa McCrieff, he is hoping that the marriage will not only help him with his plans for a new distillery plus finally put an end to a centuries long rift between the two mighty clans. But, as we know not everything goes to plan in historical romance and with the arrival of prickly Jo.
Jo is an amazing women she takes everything in her stride, she never complains and yet she isn’t a meek little mouse she has a lot of inner strength she has a stubborn, argumentative, witty and sarcastic streak in her that she keeps very well hidden beneath her staid grey gowns. But, be warned, if you ever find yourself on the wrong side of her, take shelter! She is also so caring and loving, she has a real passionate nature all of which Benniet finds so enticing – even if he won’t admit it.
Benniet is, well what a man! He is a brilliant father, when he allows himself to just have fun with his son and the way young Jamie looks up to his mighty father is heart-warming. He does feel a lot of guilt that he doesn’t spend as much time with his son as he would like to, and there is a little bit of jealously at how much Jamie has taken to Jo, and how they seem to be as thick as thieves. He is a good man, a man who is trying to do what is right and he genuinely cares deeply for his estate and those who live on it. As soon as I laid eyes on Benneit I felt that there was a fragility about him, there is something that he keeps locked a way, a pain lurking behind those green eyes that instantly made me love him. Not, to mention how good he looks in a kilt and those eyes…sigh, I have always gone weak at the knees for green-eyed men 😉
Stunningly beautiful, that is the first thing that popped into my mind whilst reading. This is regency writing at it’s very best, with enchanting and beautifully created character’s who are as mesmerizing, as they are realistic. Jo and Benniet are the perfect couple, there is a spark between them that shimmer’s below the surface. They are incredibly passionate even though they do start off rubbing each up the wrong way, the bantering between them is a lot of fun to watch, the frustration and tension that circulates around them is palpable and draws you fully into their personal story. You are willing them on, you know instantly that these two are going to be a sensual and very relatable couple and to me it is their journey to their happily ever after that is truly breath-taking, their relationship develops in a very natural way. It is like watching your two best friends finally realise that they love each other. Oh, and then there is Aunt Morag who lives in her own tower, she is such a weirdly compelling and very entertaining creature.
I have to comment on the scenery, I was utterly blown away with it. The attention to detail captures your attention from the moment Jo, Benniet and Jamie set off on their journey to Lochmore the whole scene is played out in your mind, you see the sweeping landscapes, the rolling seas the wind blowing through the trees. While they are on the boat sailing north, you can almost taste the sea salt in the air, and once in Lochmore you can hear and feel the eerie silence – if you’ve ever been in the middle of an empty wood or in the middle of nowhere whilst walking the dog, you will understand that last sentence. There were moments where I felt goose-bumps while reading, this book is stunning, in every way you can imagine!
Overall, this is exquisite! Beautiful, full of grace and passion, wonderfully atmospheric, a true love story with a hint of a Gothic-ish mystery. I honestly cannot recommend this book enough, I am completely lost for words at just how amazing this book is.
This is book two in The Lochmore Legacy series, even though you can very easily read them as stand-alone’s I highly recommend that you do read all the series (once all four are released, of course) as there is links that are starting to emerge from the previous book; His Convenient Highland Wedding and I would hate for you to miss out on the mystery that is slowly being unravelled.
Widowed Joane a poor relation of the Duke of Lochmore’s late wife; Bella. Being from a poorer branch of the great Uxmore’s she is used to being basically ignored and treated as nothing more than a servant. She is then unceremoniously passed to the Duke of Lochmore as a governess for his young son Jamie; who is such an adorable and entertaining young lad. Benneit is in the middle of securing a marriage deal between him and Lady Tessa McCrieff, he is hoping that the marriage will not only help him with his plans for a new distillery plus finally put an end to a centuries long rift between the two mighty clans. But, as we know not everything goes to plan in historical romance and with the arrival of prickly Jo.
Jo is an amazing women she takes everything in her stride, she never complains and yet she isn’t a meek little mouse she has a lot of inner strength she has a stubborn, argumentative, witty and sarcastic streak in her that she keeps very well hidden beneath her staid grey gowns. But, be warned, if you ever find yourself on the wrong side of her, take shelter! She is also so caring and loving, she has a real passionate nature all of which Benniet finds so enticing – even if he won’t admit it.
Benniet is, well what a man! He is a brilliant father, when he allows himself to just have fun with his son and the way young Jamie looks up to his mighty father is heart-warming. He does feel a lot of guilt that he doesn’t spend as much time with his son as he would like to, and there is a little bit of jealously at how much Jamie has taken to Jo, and how they seem to be as thick as thieves. He is a good man, a man who is trying to do what is right and he genuinely cares deeply for his estate and those who live on it. As soon as I laid eyes on Benneit I felt that there was a fragility about him, there is something that he keeps locked a way, a pain lurking behind those green eyes that instantly made me love him. Not, to mention how good he looks in a kilt and those eyes…sigh, I have always gone weak at the knees for green-eyed men 😉
Stunningly beautiful, that is the first thing that popped into my mind whilst reading. This is regency writing at it’s very best, with enchanting and beautifully created character’s who are as mesmerizing, as they are realistic. Jo and Benniet are the perfect couple, there is a spark between them that shimmer’s below the surface. They are incredibly passionate even though they do start off rubbing each up the wrong way, the bantering between them is a lot of fun to watch, the frustration and tension that circulates around them is palpable and draws you fully into their personal story. You are willing them on, you know instantly that these two are going to be a sensual and very relatable couple and to me it is their journey to their happily ever after that is truly breath-taking, their relationship develops in a very natural way. It is like watching your two best friends finally realise that they love each other. Oh, and then there is Aunt Morag who lives in her own tower, she is such a weirdly compelling and very entertaining creature.
I have to comment on the scenery, I was utterly blown away with it. The attention to detail captures your attention from the moment Jo, Benniet and Jamie set off on their journey to Lochmore the whole scene is played out in your mind, you see the sweeping landscapes, the rolling seas the wind blowing through the trees. While they are on the boat sailing north, you can almost taste the sea salt in the air, and once in Lochmore you can hear and feel the eerie silence – if you’ve ever been in the middle of an empty wood or in the middle of nowhere whilst walking the dog, you will understand that last sentence. There were moments where I felt goose-bumps while reading, this book is stunning, in every way you can imagine!
Overall, this is exquisite! Beautiful, full of grace and passion, wonderfully atmospheric, a true love story with a hint of a Gothic-ish mystery. I honestly cannot recommend this book enough, I am completely lost for words at just how amazing this book is.
July 24, 2019
This was so bad? During the Dark Moment, the heroine stomps her foot and says the hero is "mean" and that she "hates him" like they're freaking elementary school kids fighting over who gets to play dodgeball at recess.
I have nothing more to add to that, because what was that.
I have nothing more to add to that, because what was that.
September 18, 2019
Utterly fantastic read, loved this book very much indeed, as always our authoress does not disappoint,
I never give spoilers but I most definitely recommend to all who love historical romance especially with a mystery.
I never give spoilers but I most definitely recommend to all who love historical romance especially with a mystery.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 7, 2019
“It was as unstoppable as and Greek fable told - running from your fate served no purpose but delaying the inevitable.”
The second book in the Lochmore Legacy series takes the reader back to Regency times as we discover how Benneit Lochmore and Joane Langdale first met.
Readers of the first book in this series will have already met the older Benneit and Jo, and here, Lara Temple skilfully tells the story of how an interfering aunt and a delightful four year old boy changed the course of Jo’s life and made her the Duchess of Lochmore.
From the outset, it is clear that this is not your average Regency romance; Widower and single father Benneit is not looking for love (although he does have an ‘understanding’ with Tessa McCrieff), while Jo is trying to find her place in the world following the untimely death of her husband. Travelling back to the Highlands with Benneit and his son, Jamie, Jo is about to discover that Scotland, together with a Duke and his son will change her life in ways she could never imagine. The fact that Jo and Benneit have to build a friendship for Jamie’s sake gives them a foundation, and it is a joy to watch the two fall in love with each other without realising that they both feel the same way.
Once again, Lara Temple has created another set of excellent characters in Jo and Benneit, and indeed Jamie, who leaps from the page, and has an instant connection with Jo who tells magical stories to distract and delight both the boy and his father. Benneit may present himself as a strong man, but we (and Jo) soon see through this and discover that, in fact, he is quite vulnerable, and it is this that makes the reader like him even more as he struggles to reconcile his obligations with what he really wants from life. Once these connections are formed, and Jo and Jamie’s delightful double act is displayed to its full effect, the reader is well and truly rooting for Benneit to find a way out of his ‘understanding’ and find his happy ending. Special mention must also go to Benneit’s scene-stealing Aunt Morag who makes a memorable appearance at dinner, and leaves a last impression, and also to the author’s inspired idea to give Jo scenes with Tessa McCrieff, which ultimately helps both Benneit and Tessa with their dilemmas.
The dramatic backdrop of Lochmore castle and its Highland setting is well described, and as we are seeing it through Jo’s eyes it gives the reader a connection with the surroundings.
As much as this is Jo and Benneit’s story, and it truly works as a stand alone, there are also further revelations regarding the long running Lochmore/McCrieff feud and a few more hints about the mysterious Marguerite who married Ewan Lochmore several generations earlier, which leave just enough unanswered questions to make you look forward to the next book in the series. Furthermore, I cannot enthuse enough about the little links that the author makes to Janice Preston’s first book such as having Jo take a tour of the tunnels and crypt beneath Lochmore Castle, something that Flora also did, and also her confusion about the empty tomb (which readers of book 1 will know answered a few questions for Flora, but also left a mystery to be unravelled over the series for the reader)
Finally, without spoiling the plot, the ending is quite perfect for Jo and Benneit as they are forced to confront their feelings or risk losing their happy ending. Maybe I’ve been reading and watching too much Outlander, but there really is something magical about standing stones in the Highlands, and, with a bit of myth and folklore thrown in, there is a wonderful scene which leaves the reader smiling, laughing, and just maybe shedding the odd happy tear as Jo and Benneit’s story draws to a close.
I could go on about how much I loved this book, but in summary, it is a beautifully told story of a budding romance with characters you cannot help but fall in love with, all set against a dramatic backdrop of the Highlands, family feuds and the shadows of past generations who have shaped the current occupants of Lochmore.
Over to you, Elisabeth Hobbes for book three…
Thank you to Lara Temple for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The second book in the Lochmore Legacy series takes the reader back to Regency times as we discover how Benneit Lochmore and Joane Langdale first met.
Readers of the first book in this series will have already met the older Benneit and Jo, and here, Lara Temple skilfully tells the story of how an interfering aunt and a delightful four year old boy changed the course of Jo’s life and made her the Duchess of Lochmore.
From the outset, it is clear that this is not your average Regency romance; Widower and single father Benneit is not looking for love (although he does have an ‘understanding’ with Tessa McCrieff), while Jo is trying to find her place in the world following the untimely death of her husband. Travelling back to the Highlands with Benneit and his son, Jamie, Jo is about to discover that Scotland, together with a Duke and his son will change her life in ways she could never imagine. The fact that Jo and Benneit have to build a friendship for Jamie’s sake gives them a foundation, and it is a joy to watch the two fall in love with each other without realising that they both feel the same way.
Once again, Lara Temple has created another set of excellent characters in Jo and Benneit, and indeed Jamie, who leaps from the page, and has an instant connection with Jo who tells magical stories to distract and delight both the boy and his father. Benneit may present himself as a strong man, but we (and Jo) soon see through this and discover that, in fact, he is quite vulnerable, and it is this that makes the reader like him even more as he struggles to reconcile his obligations with what he really wants from life. Once these connections are formed, and Jo and Jamie’s delightful double act is displayed to its full effect, the reader is well and truly rooting for Benneit to find a way out of his ‘understanding’ and find his happy ending. Special mention must also go to Benneit’s scene-stealing Aunt Morag who makes a memorable appearance at dinner, and leaves a last impression, and also to the author’s inspired idea to give Jo scenes with Tessa McCrieff, which ultimately helps both Benneit and Tessa with their dilemmas.
The dramatic backdrop of Lochmore castle and its Highland setting is well described, and as we are seeing it through Jo’s eyes it gives the reader a connection with the surroundings.
As much as this is Jo and Benneit’s story, and it truly works as a stand alone, there are also further revelations regarding the long running Lochmore/McCrieff feud and a few more hints about the mysterious Marguerite who married Ewan Lochmore several generations earlier, which leave just enough unanswered questions to make you look forward to the next book in the series. Furthermore, I cannot enthuse enough about the little links that the author makes to Janice Preston’s first book such as having Jo take a tour of the tunnels and crypt beneath Lochmore Castle, something that Flora also did, and also her confusion about the empty tomb (which readers of book 1 will know answered a few questions for Flora, but also left a mystery to be unravelled over the series for the reader)
Finally, without spoiling the plot, the ending is quite perfect for Jo and Benneit as they are forced to confront their feelings or risk losing their happy ending. Maybe I’ve been reading and watching too much Outlander, but there really is something magical about standing stones in the Highlands, and, with a bit of myth and folklore thrown in, there is a wonderful scene which leaves the reader smiling, laughing, and just maybe shedding the odd happy tear as Jo and Benneit’s story draws to a close.
I could go on about how much I loved this book, but in summary, it is a beautifully told story of a budding romance with characters you cannot help but fall in love with, all set against a dramatic backdrop of the Highlands, family feuds and the shadows of past generations who have shaped the current occupants of Lochmore.
Over to you, Elisabeth Hobbes for book three…
Thank you to Lara Temple for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
April 20, 2019
Unlaced by the Highland Duke, by Lara Temple, was such a pleasant and easy-going read. Subtly, the story begins with an almost normal day in the life of Duke Benneit Lochmore when he is to travel to the Highlands with widow Lady Joanne Langdale, his late wife's cousin, who is asked to keep company to Lochmore's son, Jamie.
As the story unfolds, the keen but silent attraction between Joanne and Benneit becomes evident. Benneit never thought that the stoic and bland Mrs. Langdale, after six years of meeting her for the first time, would cause in him a mix of emotions and a long forbidden passion once again.
And while away from home and after too many years of loneliness and a life in the service of others, Jo (Joanne) experiences again the possibility of freedom and independence, just when she gets stuck in the tender company of the young Jamie and the unforgiving invitation of His Grace to warm his heart.
Dreams and desires will crush against honor and will, while Benneit and Jo make their way out of their irreconcilable fears and insecurities to find comfort in each other's arms, without avoiding the flames that threaten to consume them.
Although I found the beginning to be a little slow, I love Lara Temple's writing. It's so stylish and elegant, and can make my mind drift into the world she has made up for her characters. The delicate mode of managing the lives of her protagonists in her stories will leave you longing for more, while the description of places is exceptional. So many times I wished to see the majestic mountains of the Highlands and sit upon the Devil's Seat by the sea.
The crafting of the characters' feelings and personalities feels believable and deep. Their flaws are perfect and you will engage with them utterly. You won't avoid thinking of Benneit as an overprotective and dominant man, but when you find out the soft spot in his heart, you'll want to embrace him along with Jo, who's an expert in using her mask of strength and mastery of emotions. No matter how different and apart our dear protagonists might seem, the fire in their hearts will consume you slowly as well, and this is one thing I most appreciate un Temple's writing. The plot is exquisite.
For that and so much more I give Unlaced by the Highland Duke a 4.7 stars. Step by step, it will swallow your heart!
As the story unfolds, the keen but silent attraction between Joanne and Benneit becomes evident. Benneit never thought that the stoic and bland Mrs. Langdale, after six years of meeting her for the first time, would cause in him a mix of emotions and a long forbidden passion once again.
And while away from home and after too many years of loneliness and a life in the service of others, Jo (Joanne) experiences again the possibility of freedom and independence, just when she gets stuck in the tender company of the young Jamie and the unforgiving invitation of His Grace to warm his heart.
Dreams and desires will crush against honor and will, while Benneit and Jo make their way out of their irreconcilable fears and insecurities to find comfort in each other's arms, without avoiding the flames that threaten to consume them.
Although I found the beginning to be a little slow, I love Lara Temple's writing. It's so stylish and elegant, and can make my mind drift into the world she has made up for her characters. The delicate mode of managing the lives of her protagonists in her stories will leave you longing for more, while the description of places is exceptional. So many times I wished to see the majestic mountains of the Highlands and sit upon the Devil's Seat by the sea.
The crafting of the characters' feelings and personalities feels believable and deep. Their flaws are perfect and you will engage with them utterly. You won't avoid thinking of Benneit as an overprotective and dominant man, but when you find out the soft spot in his heart, you'll want to embrace him along with Jo, who's an expert in using her mask of strength and mastery of emotions. No matter how different and apart our dear protagonists might seem, the fire in their hearts will consume you slowly as well, and this is one thing I most appreciate un Temple's writing. The plot is exquisite.
For that and so much more I give Unlaced by the Highland Duke a 4.7 stars. Step by step, it will swallow your heart!
April 26, 2019
Benneit's wife Bella has been gone two years, leaving him to raise their young son Jamie alone. His wife's family implores him to allow them to raise the child, but the Duke of Lochmore refuses time and time again. But he realizes that in his grief and loneliness, his son has suffered from a want of companionship on the estate. Enter his late wife's widowed cousin Joane. The mousy woman has a tongue like a viper and for the first time in years, Benneit is on his toes...and likes it.
Joane, or Jo as she likes to be called, adores young Jamie at once and fosters his imagination. At first, she sees Benneit as a surly, brooding, gruff man who needs to be taken down a notch. Lucky for her, he's amused by her quips and she begins to break through his hardened shell. Soon, she catches glimpses of the man behind the shield, the caring one with the deep laugh and soulful eyes. But she can't let herself get too close before her heart gets broken.
Her sharp tongue and witty admonishments and his generous nature and secretive, boyish joy make Jo and Benneit toe the line of proprietary as their hearts take them in a direction neither intended. As the pair warms to one another on the cold Scottish hills, the woman Benneit is to marry comes into full focus. Lady Tessa checks all the boxes for an amenable wife, something that doesn't escape Jo's notice...or Benneit's.
It's so refreshing to fall into a fabulously done Scottish romance again. Temple really wove a tale of love, longing, and rolling hills to create a quintessential historical I didn't want to put down. There was passion, emotion, and picturesque countryside between every page.
Jo was a lovely character who had her head on straight. She wasn't afraid to speak her mind, even when she probably should keep quiet, but she isn't obnoxious about it. Benneit had a lot of depth, more than you would think when you first meet him. They grow together, and it's nice to see.
Overall, this book is perfect for all historical romance fans.
Joane, or Jo as she likes to be called, adores young Jamie at once and fosters his imagination. At first, she sees Benneit as a surly, brooding, gruff man who needs to be taken down a notch. Lucky for her, he's amused by her quips and she begins to break through his hardened shell. Soon, she catches glimpses of the man behind the shield, the caring one with the deep laugh and soulful eyes. But she can't let herself get too close before her heart gets broken.
Her sharp tongue and witty admonishments and his generous nature and secretive, boyish joy make Jo and Benneit toe the line of proprietary as their hearts take them in a direction neither intended. As the pair warms to one another on the cold Scottish hills, the woman Benneit is to marry comes into full focus. Lady Tessa checks all the boxes for an amenable wife, something that doesn't escape Jo's notice...or Benneit's.
It's so refreshing to fall into a fabulously done Scottish romance again. Temple really wove a tale of love, longing, and rolling hills to create a quintessential historical I didn't want to put down. There was passion, emotion, and picturesque countryside between every page.
Jo was a lovely character who had her head on straight. She wasn't afraid to speak her mind, even when she probably should keep quiet, but she isn't obnoxious about it. Benneit had a lot of depth, more than you would think when you first meet him. They grow together, and it's nice to see.
Overall, this book is perfect for all historical romance fans.
February 7, 2020
As if people don't know already I'm crazy for Historical Romances. Lara Temple is one of the authors whose books I have read, so this is not the first one. When I first heard of this series and the names of the authors in it, I was very excited. I'm sad that I'm posting my review way later than I wanted but here I am.
When I read the synopsis I was immediately excited. I already knew I would love it, just because of the author, but the synopsis gave me an extra reason to think that way. And of course, Lara Temple didn't disappoint.
With the amazing descriptions that transported me to another time and another place, vivid images that just made me dream of the beautiful scenery she was presenting, combined with the brilliant characters Benneit, Jo and Jamie, I just couldn't help myself, and feel in love with the story.
I do love books that have kids and have a family, because it always reminds me of all my baby cousins and it's just the cutest thing ever. And in this set and time period, it was such an amazing element of the story. And the moment's with Jamie was so sweet and fun. Well, to be honest, all the interactions between the characters were amazing, especially Benneit and Jo's, I loved those two!
After a couple of years (not many, and not enough books), I found that although I know things will end up well and that, of course, there is some drama or unexpected moment, Historical Romances never have disappointed me with the journey of the characters. This book was no exception. I was so caught up in the story that every moment, every unexpected thing, every drama, every emotion... I was experiencing with the characters.
I did love Jo, I felt some connection with her and I just love her. She was an amazing and well written character, and I almost felt like I was her friend and knew her for years now. Caring, loving and passionate, as well as stubborn and very determined. Amazing qualities in my opinion. And then there is Benneit, another fictional man to make me sigh, and this one is such a great father. How could I not love him as well?
Overall, I loved the book and it is yet another novel I will highly recommend.
When I read the synopsis I was immediately excited. I already knew I would love it, just because of the author, but the synopsis gave me an extra reason to think that way. And of course, Lara Temple didn't disappoint.
With the amazing descriptions that transported me to another time and another place, vivid images that just made me dream of the beautiful scenery she was presenting, combined with the brilliant characters Benneit, Jo and Jamie, I just couldn't help myself, and feel in love with the story.
I do love books that have kids and have a family, because it always reminds me of all my baby cousins and it's just the cutest thing ever. And in this set and time period, it was such an amazing element of the story. And the moment's with Jamie was so sweet and fun. Well, to be honest, all the interactions between the characters were amazing, especially Benneit and Jo's, I loved those two!
After a couple of years (not many, and not enough books), I found that although I know things will end up well and that, of course, there is some drama or unexpected moment, Historical Romances never have disappointed me with the journey of the characters. This book was no exception. I was so caught up in the story that every moment, every unexpected thing, every drama, every emotion... I was experiencing with the characters.
I did love Jo, I felt some connection with her and I just love her. She was an amazing and well written character, and I almost felt like I was her friend and knew her for years now. Caring, loving and passionate, as well as stubborn and very determined. Amazing qualities in my opinion. And then there is Benneit, another fictional man to make me sigh, and this one is such a great father. How could I not love him as well?
Overall, I loved the book and it is yet another novel I will highly recommend.
April 12, 2019
Unlaced by the Highland Duke written by Lara Temple
The story of Benneit, Duke of Lochmore, widower and Joane Langdale, widow cousin of his late wife.
Joane is asked to keep the Duke’s son Jamie company until he marries, as she is so use to everyone asking her to help out in her family’s life, she accepts the request, a young lady who’s life so far has been full of insecurities and vulnerability you cannot help but love this ladies character and everything to do with her self worth.
The Duke has not made his intentions completely clear on marrying Tessa one of the McCrieffs to help with water from there land to make the Dukes distillery, which in turn would cease all ill feelings between the clans.
The Duke is torn between doing what is right for his son, but not himself. In the writing you can feel the tension between the two main characters, Benneit and Joane, wishing and hoping they can get together.
The secondary characters are quite fun and you wonder if all could work out for them, Angus and Beth stand out.
The description of the Highland Mountains in Scotland really makes you wish you where there, you can actually put your mind to it all, the mountains the beach, extremely well written.
The Duke is a very entertaining character will his dislike of grey dowry dresses, put a smile on my face with what he did with the last grey dress.
Joane and Tessa stand out as two women looking at the one man and not an ill word spoken between them, these two could end the feud together.
Very hard to write a review on a story that worked together extremely well, the romance flows.
Pleasure to read
Stand alone
There are two other books in this series by two different authors.
The story of Benneit, Duke of Lochmore, widower and Joane Langdale, widow cousin of his late wife.
Joane is asked to keep the Duke’s son Jamie company until he marries, as she is so use to everyone asking her to help out in her family’s life, she accepts the request, a young lady who’s life so far has been full of insecurities and vulnerability you cannot help but love this ladies character and everything to do with her self worth.
The Duke has not made his intentions completely clear on marrying Tessa one of the McCrieffs to help with water from there land to make the Dukes distillery, which in turn would cease all ill feelings between the clans.
The Duke is torn between doing what is right for his son, but not himself. In the writing you can feel the tension between the two main characters, Benneit and Joane, wishing and hoping they can get together.
The secondary characters are quite fun and you wonder if all could work out for them, Angus and Beth stand out.
The description of the Highland Mountains in Scotland really makes you wish you where there, you can actually put your mind to it all, the mountains the beach, extremely well written.
The Duke is a very entertaining character will his dislike of grey dowry dresses, put a smile on my face with what he did with the last grey dress.
Joane and Tessa stand out as two women looking at the one man and not an ill word spoken between them, these two could end the feud together.
Very hard to write a review on a story that worked together extremely well, the romance flows.
Pleasure to read
Stand alone
There are two other books in this series by two different authors.
April 19, 2019
Unlaced by the Highland Duke is Book 2 in The Lochmore Legacy series. The Lochmore Legacy is a series of four stories set in different historical eras around a castle in the Scottish highlands and a feud between rival clans. Each story is written by a different historical romance author and Unlaced by the Highland Duke is written by Lara Temple. Each story in the series can be read as a standalone but I would highly recommend reading all the books in the series to gain full enjoyment and appreciation of this gorgeous historical romance series.
Unlaced by the Highland Duke is the story of Duke of Lochmore, Benneit, who is trying to forge a partnership and also help soften the feud with fellow Scotman McCleish. Since the death of his wife Bella, the Duke has focused all his energies on his four year old son Jamie. Benneit hopes to secure a future for Jamie so a partnership is essential. Hiring his late wife’s cousin, Joane (Jo) to help look after Jamie until he marries brings many confused emotions to Benneit and Jo’s minds.
Jo is a widower herself and her first impressions of Benneit six years ago was of an aloof gentleman. However, now she sees him with his son she can see a softer, almost vulnerable side to him. Benneit is fiercely protection of his son Jamie and he also has a strong relationship with his help at the castle. Jo has a wonderful way with children and she soon develops a lovely, warm, trusting relationship with Jamie and Jamie soon begins to show his love and loyalty to her. Jo is a young woman with so much love, vibrancy and imagination and appears to know just how to appease this young boy who is feeling a little lost at the moment.
Lara Temple has written a gorgeous historical romance that is so charming and beautiful and then has an addictive, sensual side to the storyline. With the stunning, rugged backdrop of the Scottish highlands The Lochmore Legacy continues to enthral me with it’s mystery, legends and beguiling romances.
Unlaced by the Highland Duke is the story of Duke of Lochmore, Benneit, who is trying to forge a partnership and also help soften the feud with fellow Scotman McCleish. Since the death of his wife Bella, the Duke has focused all his energies on his four year old son Jamie. Benneit hopes to secure a future for Jamie so a partnership is essential. Hiring his late wife’s cousin, Joane (Jo) to help look after Jamie until he marries brings many confused emotions to Benneit and Jo’s minds.
Jo is a widower herself and her first impressions of Benneit six years ago was of an aloof gentleman. However, now she sees him with his son she can see a softer, almost vulnerable side to him. Benneit is fiercely protection of his son Jamie and he also has a strong relationship with his help at the castle. Jo has a wonderful way with children and she soon develops a lovely, warm, trusting relationship with Jamie and Jamie soon begins to show his love and loyalty to her. Jo is a young woman with so much love, vibrancy and imagination and appears to know just how to appease this young boy who is feeling a little lost at the moment.
Lara Temple has written a gorgeous historical romance that is so charming and beautiful and then has an addictive, sensual side to the storyline. With the stunning, rugged backdrop of the Scottish highlands The Lochmore Legacy continues to enthral me with it’s mystery, legends and beguiling romances.
April 27, 2019
WOW!!!!! What an amazing book!
I just couldn't put it down and instantly feel in love with all the characters. Definitely one of the best books I have read this year.
This is book 2 in The Lochmore Legacy Miniseries. The first book is His Convenient Highland Bride by Janice Preston. I have to admit I have not read book 1, although I have now ordered it and look forward to reading it and the rest of the series. Not reading book 1 didn't affect my reading or enjoyment of this book.
This amazing book is about Duke Of Lochmore, Benneit a devoted father to Jamie. The relationship between the father and son is so heartwarming. After loosing his wife his world has revolved around Jamie and he is determined to amend the feuds between the rival clan The McCleish and make the best future he can for his son.
Joane who likes to be known as Jo through out the story ends up coming to stay with Benneit to help look after his son, she is cousin to his late wife. She meet Benneit 6 years ago and it's safe to say her impression off him then definitely changes as she gets to know him.
I really liked Jo she is a very strong willed character and I loved all the little stories she would make up to entertain Jamie.
The chemistry between these two is amazing and it definitely drew me in and had me hooked from the start.
Lara Temple is such an amazing writer, her description are amazing drawing you in and letting your imagination run away with you.
I definitely recommend this book for anyone who loves historical romances. It's going to be a tough book to beat this year , totally feel in love with it .
I just couldn't put it down and instantly feel in love with all the characters. Definitely one of the best books I have read this year.
This is book 2 in The Lochmore Legacy Miniseries. The first book is His Convenient Highland Bride by Janice Preston. I have to admit I have not read book 1, although I have now ordered it and look forward to reading it and the rest of the series. Not reading book 1 didn't affect my reading or enjoyment of this book.
This amazing book is about Duke Of Lochmore, Benneit a devoted father to Jamie. The relationship between the father and son is so heartwarming. After loosing his wife his world has revolved around Jamie and he is determined to amend the feuds between the rival clan The McCleish and make the best future he can for his son.
Joane who likes to be known as Jo through out the story ends up coming to stay with Benneit to help look after his son, she is cousin to his late wife. She meet Benneit 6 years ago and it's safe to say her impression off him then definitely changes as she gets to know him.
I really liked Jo she is a very strong willed character and I loved all the little stories she would make up to entertain Jamie.
The chemistry between these two is amazing and it definitely drew me in and had me hooked from the start.
Lara Temple is such an amazing writer, her description are amazing drawing you in and letting your imagination run away with you.
I definitely recommend this book for anyone who loves historical romances. It's going to be a tough book to beat this year , totally feel in love with it .
April 27, 2019
Woohoo! The second book in the Lochmore Legacy has landed and a new grumpy Scotsman has been vying for my attention! How excited was I when this dropped through my letterbox?! Thankfully, I had a child free afternoon in a coffee shop planned so Unlaced by The Highland Duke came along with me. But I did get a few strange looks in Costa when I started fanning myself with napkins near the end!!
We are back in Regency times to meet Jo or Mrs Langdale as she is formally known. Jo is described as a plain and unassuming widow which I thought incredibly unfair! But when she goes to work for The Duke of Lochmore as governess to his 4 year old son Jamie, there is a definite spark between them. And I adored that chemistry which was much steamier than I had been expecting! This was the first Lara Temple Mills and Boon Historical Romance that I have read and I was very impressed. It had a convincing storyline and the relationships at the heart of it were endearing.
This follows on perfectly from His Convenient Highland Wedding with a few more details about the mystery of the empty crypt and I’m now ready for A Runaway Bride for The Highlander by Elisabeth Hobbs which is the third part of The Lochmore Legacy. Yes, I am loving all these handsome, dark and moody Scotsman so bring them them on!
We are back in Regency times to meet Jo or Mrs Langdale as she is formally known. Jo is described as a plain and unassuming widow which I thought incredibly unfair! But when she goes to work for The Duke of Lochmore as governess to his 4 year old son Jamie, there is a definite spark between them. And I adored that chemistry which was much steamier than I had been expecting! This was the first Lara Temple Mills and Boon Historical Romance that I have read and I was very impressed. It had a convincing storyline and the relationships at the heart of it were endearing.
This follows on perfectly from His Convenient Highland Wedding with a few more details about the mystery of the empty crypt and I’m now ready for A Runaway Bride for The Highlander by Elisabeth Hobbs which is the third part of The Lochmore Legacy. Yes, I am loving all these handsome, dark and moody Scotsman so bring them them on!
April 25, 2019
This is the second book in The Lochmore Legacy miniseries from Harlequin/Mills & Boon. We briefly met Jo and Benneit in the first book, His Convenient Highland Bride by Janice Preston - A Victorian-era story.
In this book, Lara Temple takes us back to when they were young in the Regency period. Benneit is such a wonderful character I'm not at all surprised that Jo falls for him. I think I did as well!
The mystery that was introduced in the first book is only mentioned somewhat in passing, we will probably have to wait for books three and four to solve that conundrum.
But back to Unlaced by the Highland Duke. This was a wonderful love story, and I know it was not only satisfying, but extremely well written because it was one of those books that I wanted to read fast to reach the HEA ending, but at the same time I wanted to slow down in order to savor every word. Even her portrayal of Jamie, Benneit’s four-year-old son, was perfectly drawn.
Ms. Temple has been a favourite of mine since her very first book and this did not disappoint.
The next title in the series is A Runaway Bride for the Highlander by Elisabeth Hobbes.
In this book, Lara Temple takes us back to when they were young in the Regency period. Benneit is such a wonderful character I'm not at all surprised that Jo falls for him. I think I did as well!
The mystery that was introduced in the first book is only mentioned somewhat in passing, we will probably have to wait for books three and four to solve that conundrum.
But back to Unlaced by the Highland Duke. This was a wonderful love story, and I know it was not only satisfying, but extremely well written because it was one of those books that I wanted to read fast to reach the HEA ending, but at the same time I wanted to slow down in order to savor every word. Even her portrayal of Jamie, Benneit’s four-year-old son, was perfectly drawn.
Ms. Temple has been a favourite of mine since her very first book and this did not disappoint.
The next title in the series is A Runaway Bride for the Highlander by Elisabeth Hobbes.
May 8, 2019
To say this book made my heart smile does not even begin to describe it!
A hero who cares deeply for his son Jamie, Benneit, Duke of Lochmore, is being pushed by his late wife's family to take Jamie and let them care for him or enroll him in school. When he will not give in, they push to have his late wife's cousin Joane to act as a companion to Jamie until he married. He was already set to marry Lady Tessa McCrieff, but it was not official yet. The union would pull the two families together and mend a rift that had been ongoing, plus McCrieff would help support his business.
Jo, having been widowed for two years, is looking forward to caring for Jamie because she loves children. Plus she will enjoy being in Scotland and be a little more independent. Jo knew Benneit from when he was courting he cousin years ago, but they had not interacted that much. Of course he never paid that much attention to her.
But fate is ready to step in when he sees how Jo and Jamie spend time together and her special way with him. Never realizing how lovely she was inside and out, Benneit begins to have feelings for her and she for him.
Can I say that Lara Temple has enchanted me with her wonderful words that magically bring the setting of Scotland and the world of Benneit and Jo alive? She pulled me into the lives of the characters to the point I could feel their emotions and only hope they could be together forever. He is such a compelling character with his love that surrounds his son and you know he will do anything to protect him. Jo grows strong the longer she is away from her family and loves Jamie almost as much as he does.
Is there any way they can be together now that he is pledged to another? I literally could not put this book down once I started. Yes, I was up until 3 in the am, but this was much more important than sleep! To say my heart melted and I sighed several times only touches slightly on my emotions. I cannot wait to read the next story in this series and can only hope it comes soon!! This will go on my to be read again shelf and I would say one of my favorite reads this year!
A hero who cares deeply for his son Jamie, Benneit, Duke of Lochmore, is being pushed by his late wife's family to take Jamie and let them care for him or enroll him in school. When he will not give in, they push to have his late wife's cousin Joane to act as a companion to Jamie until he married. He was already set to marry Lady Tessa McCrieff, but it was not official yet. The union would pull the two families together and mend a rift that had been ongoing, plus McCrieff would help support his business.
Jo, having been widowed for two years, is looking forward to caring for Jamie because she loves children. Plus she will enjoy being in Scotland and be a little more independent. Jo knew Benneit from when he was courting he cousin years ago, but they had not interacted that much. Of course he never paid that much attention to her.
But fate is ready to step in when he sees how Jo and Jamie spend time together and her special way with him. Never realizing how lovely she was inside and out, Benneit begins to have feelings for her and she for him.
Can I say that Lara Temple has enchanted me with her wonderful words that magically bring the setting of Scotland and the world of Benneit and Jo alive? She pulled me into the lives of the characters to the point I could feel their emotions and only hope they could be together forever. He is such a compelling character with his love that surrounds his son and you know he will do anything to protect him. Jo grows strong the longer she is away from her family and loves Jamie almost as much as he does.
Is there any way they can be together now that he is pledged to another? I literally could not put this book down once I started. Yes, I was up until 3 in the am, but this was much more important than sleep! To say my heart melted and I sighed several times only touches slightly on my emotions. I cannot wait to read the next story in this series and can only hope it comes soon!! This will go on my to be read again shelf and I would say one of my favorite reads this year!
April 8, 2019
This ticks all the boxes - the pressures of society obstructing the course of love on several fronts, oodles of self doubt and stubborness (but also self respect), the precocious kid, a beautifully described setting, side characters I hope to hear more about (Angus, Tessa, I'm looking at you!), personal growth for the protagonists, near death experiences, miscommunication, delicious sexytimes, mud, kilts, and more. Stayed up late reading this. Delightful example of the genre, and I would read more from this author, though this is not my usual shelf in the bookstore!
July 9, 2019
Well, I am in a crappy mood at the moment and my ratings have been rather low as a result.
This was fine. I didn't love either of the main characters or the storyline. It was lacklustre for me but not awful by any stretch of the imagination.
3 solid, but not special, stars.
And edited because I forgot to mention this reads like a Jane Eyre retelling and being that is my most favourite book and nothing compares... three stars is a satisfactory rating for this one.
This was fine. I didn't love either of the main characters or the storyline. It was lacklustre for me but not awful by any stretch of the imagination.
3 solid, but not special, stars.
And edited because I forgot to mention this reads like a Jane Eyre retelling and being that is my most favourite book and nothing compares... three stars is a satisfactory rating for this one.
December 31, 2019
Benneit is asked/told by a relative of his late wife to take Jo, a poor relative, home with him in order to take care of his 4 year old son until he marries. Jo turns out to be much more than a drab widow. She is wonderful with children, has a fantastic imagination and soon becomes a favorite with his staff. Benneit is a warm, loving father. There’s passion, a believable romance.
October 25, 2019
This book was set in the Regency era and the author had obviously done her research, which showed in the small details of the era throughout the story, from fashion to etiquette. The characters were all relatable and likeable, the main ‘hero’ and ‘heroine’ were both great characters and well defined, their relationship and romance developed steadily throughout the story, and had a happy and satisfactory ending. It was an easy read, a real page turner and I enjoyed the story. It had a good mix of plot and romance. It’s the second in a series but works as a standalone read, although I’m now interested in reading the rest of the books in the series.
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