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Kilty Pleasures #2
Where There's a Kilt, There's a Way
"This book was a total delight" -- Cat Sebastian, author of Two Rogues Make a Right on Best Laid Plaids
Sweden, 1930
Two years ago, Dr. Ainsley Graham proved the existence of ghosts, and fell in love—hard to top that. But a trip to Sweden to research at a prestigious University for the summer is nothing to sneeze at, especially since his partner, psychologist Joachim Cockburn, will be teaching alongside him. A change of scenery might be just the thing.
Their idyllic trip to Sweden is interrupted by a ghost with a proclivity for rude hand gestures and graphic curse words—and a ghastly history begging to be investigated. Life among the living is complicated, too, by a gruff professor who can’t take his eyes off Ainsley, and an enticing new job offer for Joachim.
What starts as an adventurous trip abroad turns into mayhem, murder, and…a magical moose? And everyone—well, perhaps not the moose—is a suspect in the death of the ghostly young man who brings them together to expose secrets, loves lost, and a crime that will shock them all
Sweden, 1930
Two years ago, Dr. Ainsley Graham proved the existence of ghosts, and fell in love—hard to top that. But a trip to Sweden to research at a prestigious University for the summer is nothing to sneeze at, especially since his partner, psychologist Joachim Cockburn, will be teaching alongside him. A change of scenery might be just the thing.
Their idyllic trip to Sweden is interrupted by a ghost with a proclivity for rude hand gestures and graphic curse words—and a ghastly history begging to be investigated. Life among the living is complicated, too, by a gruff professor who can’t take his eyes off Ainsley, and an enticing new job offer for Joachim.
What starts as an adventurous trip abroad turns into mayhem, murder, and…a magical moose? And everyone—well, perhaps not the moose—is a suspect in the death of the ghostly young man who brings them together to expose secrets, loves lost, and a crime that will shock them all
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Published March 23, 2021
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
March 24, 2021
Well .... I loved the first book in this series - Best Laid Plaids - and as I started this book, I enjoyed catching up with Ainsley and Joachim two years into their relationship. There's a new cast of secondary characters here which, personally, were a bit confusing since we get alternating chapters of Ainsley and Joachim and their respective adventures, and I kept forgetting who was who. Once Ainsley and Joachim are finally reunited (around 2/3rd of the way through the book) and realize they are both involved in the same murder / mystery, things start coming into clearer focus.
But, for me, the folklore aspects of the tale (A ghostly moose? Nissa? Trolls? Enchanted treasure chests? Why, yes please!) were much more interesting than the shadowy murder/mystery. And while there is a wide range of characters here, many are very lightly fleshed-out and as a result the murder/mystery seemed undeveloped as well.
Surprisingly, what didn't click for me was the relationship between Ainsley and Joachim. The sizzling sexual dynamic between Ainsley and Joachim is an integral part of their relationship and in this book there are only a few scenes that really demonstrate why they are perfect for one another. Instead, each seems very willing to assume the worst of the other and there are plenty of moments where rampant miscommunication and misunderstandings lead to chaos.
3 stars for "Where's There a Kilt, There's a Way" but I do look forward to the next book in this series.
I received an ARC from the Publisher, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.
Visit my blog, Sinfully Good Gay Book Reviews
But, for me, the folklore aspects of the tale (A ghostly moose? Nissa? Trolls? Enchanted treasure chests? Why, yes please!) were much more interesting than the shadowy murder/mystery. And while there is a wide range of characters here, many are very lightly fleshed-out and as a result the murder/mystery seemed undeveloped as well.
Surprisingly, what didn't click for me was the relationship between Ainsley and Joachim. The sizzling sexual dynamic between Ainsley and Joachim is an integral part of their relationship and in this book there are only a few scenes that really demonstrate why they are perfect for one another. Instead, each seems very willing to assume the worst of the other and there are plenty of moments where rampant miscommunication and misunderstandings lead to chaos.
3 stars for "Where's There a Kilt, There's a Way" but I do look forward to the next book in this series.
I received an ARC from the Publisher, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.
Visit my blog, Sinfully Good Gay Book Reviews
January 30, 2021
Ainsley and Joachim are back, and it's so great!
Ella Stainton writes an excellent story. It's fast paced, clever and creative. Full of surprises, it's over way too soon.
I love the alternating points of view, so we get to keep up with what both men are experiencing. And the banter between them, as well as a host of fascinating supporting characters, is an absolute riot.
There's romance too, as these guys are two years into their relationship. And the spark between them is still just as hot.
The publisher provides the first chapter of Kilty Pleasures 3 titled Clash of the Tartans (thank god there's another one on the way!). But I dare not read it, knowing it will drive me crazy to have to wait for the rest. Please write quickly Ms. Stainton!
thank you to NetGalley and Carina Press for this ARC copy of Where There's a Kilt, There's a Way
Ella Stainton writes an excellent story. It's fast paced, clever and creative. Full of surprises, it's over way too soon.
I love the alternating points of view, so we get to keep up with what both men are experiencing. And the banter between them, as well as a host of fascinating supporting characters, is an absolute riot.
There's romance too, as these guys are two years into their relationship. And the spark between them is still just as hot.
The publisher provides the first chapter of Kilty Pleasures 3 titled Clash of the Tartans (thank god there's another one on the way!). But I dare not read it, knowing it will drive me crazy to have to wait for the rest. Please write quickly Ms. Stainton!
thank you to NetGalley and Carina Press for this ARC copy of Where There's a Kilt, There's a Way
February 8, 2021
I have received an ARC of this book by NetGalley and Carinapress and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review. The Pub date of the book is 23.03.2021.
I was so excited when I received this book. I missed these two boys so much and I couldn’t put down the book until I finish it. I adored it.
In my opinion it’s easier to comprehend this book and characters if you had already read the first one “Best Laid Plaids” – there you know and understand the main characters and their personalities with much more details.
Here we follow Ainsley and Joachim journey to Sweden – after two years of the previous book – and oh boy, all the troubles and problems they had to endure since the beginning…
I loved this book and I’ll tell you why: it shows things that we all do and feel and sometimes had ashamed to admit it.
Unlike the first book, the MC’s spend more time apart than together and this causes a little bit of jealousy and negative thoughts. But isn't that how it always happens? Joachim’s behavior it was not the best but I kind of get it why he did it that way – and love that he understood his mistake and apologized. Ainsley had some thinking of his own to do and to apologize for. I understood very well the feelings of each of the characters and how they could have solved the situation better with a good conversation, but at the same time it made perfect sense that it happened that way in the story. Human beings, remember?
I was in agony until the last page, until I got to know in fact the mystery and the settlement of our characters. They love each other and they want to protect each other. And that’s that!
I missed the way Joachim spoke, using his cute accent, and his interactions with Violet, but it was not possible to our dog to be there, so I understand.
The story itself also had a lot of new characters and twists everywhere, which kept me reading over and over, because I wanted to know what was going to happen and how. I loved the plot and the moose thing – laugh a bunch. Freddy was a surprise too – and a good one.
I really liked this second book and saw that we have the beginning of the third book, but I will not look at it. I will be strong and hold on.
I’m happy that I found this universe and this author – she’s a keeper.
I was so excited when I received this book. I missed these two boys so much and I couldn’t put down the book until I finish it. I adored it.
In my opinion it’s easier to comprehend this book and characters if you had already read the first one “Best Laid Plaids” – there you know and understand the main characters and their personalities with much more details.
Here we follow Ainsley and Joachim journey to Sweden – after two years of the previous book – and oh boy, all the troubles and problems they had to endure since the beginning…
I loved this book and I’ll tell you why: it shows things that we all do and feel and sometimes had ashamed to admit it.
Unlike the first book, the MC’s spend more time apart than together and this causes a little bit of jealousy and negative thoughts. But isn't that how it always happens? Joachim’s behavior it was not the best but I kind of get it why he did it that way – and love that he understood his mistake and apologized. Ainsley had some thinking of his own to do and to apologize for. I understood very well the feelings of each of the characters and how they could have solved the situation better with a good conversation, but at the same time it made perfect sense that it happened that way in the story. Human beings, remember?
I was in agony until the last page, until I got to know in fact the mystery and the settlement of our characters. They love each other and they want to protect each other. And that’s that!
I missed the way Joachim spoke, using his cute accent, and his interactions with Violet, but it was not possible to our dog to be there, so I understand.
The story itself also had a lot of new characters and twists everywhere, which kept me reading over and over, because I wanted to know what was going to happen and how. I loved the plot and the moose thing – laugh a bunch. Freddy was a surprise too – and a good one.
I really liked this second book and saw that we have the beginning of the third book, but I will not look at it. I will be strong and hold on.
I’m happy that I found this universe and this author – she’s a keeper.
September 21, 2024
Clash of the Tartans when?!
April 25, 2021
4.5 Stars
I was so happy to come back to the world-building and amazing characters of Where There's a Kilt, There's a way , book 2 of the Kilty Pleasures Series.
The humor , banter , snark that enchanted me in book one are all here in book two . My only complaint is that Joaquin and Ainsley - the heroes - didn't spend much time together for most of the story. Their chemistry and interactions is what made them such a memorable pair to me .
Looking forward reading/listening other books in the series.
I was so happy to come back to the world-building and amazing characters of Where There's a Kilt, There's a way , book 2 of the Kilty Pleasures Series.
The humor , banter , snark that enchanted me in book one are all here in book two . My only complaint is that Joaquin and Ainsley - the heroes - didn't spend much time together for most of the story. Their chemistry and interactions is what made them such a memorable pair to me .
Looking forward reading/listening other books in the series.
November 19, 2021
What an infuriating disappointment. I almost didn’t finish it, because it was so dumb. The entire plot/conflicts hinge upon complete misunderstandings and Ainsley being a shockingly selfish ass. It’s almost as if these were different characters from the first book, sharing only the same name. The adventure to Sweden and a murder mystery should’ve been interesting. But instead, Ainsley continues to immediately jump to wildly inaccurate conclusions and disappear in a huff. Every conversation goes immediately awry and then Ainsley runs off. It’s super dumb, and not enjoyable at all. They’ve been in a committed relationship for over TWO YEARS and yet the insane trust issues and inability to listen/communicate is worse than between strangers. Ugh. Also, didn’t follow the general romance trope of the sequel following the falling in love arc between two different side characters (even though there are two side characters who have the hots for each other). But we don’t actually see anyone having nice feelings for each other. It’s just hurt and recrimination and not listening and running away. The supposed “happily ever after” at the end doesn’t feel real or earned. I just wanted Joachim to run for the hills and find someone else. It shouldn’t be THIS hard. Blergh.
June 12, 2021
This book is so fabulous! Because the author is my beloved CP, I've gotten to see this book grow from just an idea of where these characters would go next into what it is now and it's just amazing. I love watching Ainsley and Joachim's relationship mature and grow in Sweden. The two travel there so they each can pursue a professional opportunities. There is a fabulous ghost-y mystery that they solve with gnomes! And a ghost moose! But the real crux of the book is them dealing with the fact that Joachim is a rising star and Ainsley is still trying to crawl his way back into professional respectability.
The two have to figure out how to go from the initial in-love phase to the mature relationship phase where they each learn to give and take and mold their lives to each other and it is so, so, so, lovely.
Also, the chemistry is gorgeous and the sex is fun and the voice is everything. It's unique and enthralling and just perfect. The details and the settings and the side characters and how the mystery comes together is just so brilliant and everything. This book is so, so, fabulous and highly recommended.
The two have to figure out how to go from the initial in-love phase to the mature relationship phase where they each learn to give and take and mold their lives to each other and it is so, so, so, lovely.
Also, the chemistry is gorgeous and the sex is fun and the voice is everything. It's unique and enthralling and just perfect. The details and the settings and the side characters and how the mystery comes together is just so brilliant and everything. This book is so, so, fabulous and highly recommended.
November 8, 2021
I truly have enjoyed the first two books in this series. It is well written and has interesting characters and I really liked the plots of each book as well. Like I said before, there's a lot less sex in this book but I liked it either way. I don't have too much more to say except that I did give both books 5 stars and that may be a little generous but I was thoroughly entertained and impressed so there's that.
March 29, 2021
Dr. Ainsley Graham and Dr. Joachim Cockburn are off on an adventure to hunt trolls, gnomes, and ghost moose. That's what Joachim tells Ainsley is the reason they are heading to Sweden and while Joachim is lecturing at the university, Ainsley can explore the folklore of magical creatures in this beautiful land.
But what awaits our fine Drs is not what they were expecting. A mystery arises rather quickly and the story is driven by the escalation of events driving our heroes apart and as they face challenges on their own, they cope with discoveries about each other that is unsettling.
Can our lovers find their way back to each other before one of them makes a decision that will keep them apart, perhaps forever?
Let me begin by saying I adored the first installment of Ella Stainton's Kilty Pleasures series. Joachim and Ainsley became the couple that set the standard for give and take, love and hate, growls and kisses. Their chemistry was palpable and the narration by Cornell Collins was 5 alarm fire hot. I couldn't hardly wait for the next book to be released having listened to Best Laid Plaids about 6 times since September.
I loved the humor and heat between Ainsley and Joachim and the way their family and friends brought out the best and worst in them (See Ainsley here). But in this second outing so much of what I loved about the first wasn't there. The playfulness and brattiness of Ainsley, the growlyness and bossiness of Joachim, interspersed with their very soft and intimate words of love, often whispered in their kiss. This story sent our lovers to different parts of the country and there were very few interactions and the ones they did have were often fraught with misunderstanding and missed opportunities for loving each other in their special way. This story was good in that it showed some growth and stretching in their relationship but I missed the togetherness of them. I loved seeing Ainsley grow, really I did, but I wish it could have happened closer in proximity to Joachim. I hope Ms. Stainton is planning another adventure for our beloved doctors. I know I would love to spend more time with them.
Now on to the narration. Cornell Collins is a master at voices. He nails Ainsley and Joachim and their distinct accents are always a delight. This time Collins has the added pressure to voice Swedes and an American. The American is perfect, with a hint of a drawl, that as a southern woman, I appreciate very much. His Swedish accents were challenging to understand, and I don't think this was because he isn't talented enough to handle them, but because my untrained ear wasn't sure of what he should be saying without text in front of me. He had to do several male and female voices and he certainly met the challenge with aplomb. I plan on re-listening to this story multiple times to pick up the nuances of the language and to hear him growl for Joachim. He does it so well.
I wish everyone would read/listen to Best Laid Plaids and Where there's a Kilt, there's a Way because I think Ella Stainton is a little known treasure of story telling. I'll do my part to promote and support if she keeps up this level of good writing.
I truly hope to visit Ainsley and Joachim again, even if they are merely side characters in Barley's story. I'm always up for more Kilty Pleasures.
But what awaits our fine Drs is not what they were expecting. A mystery arises rather quickly and the story is driven by the escalation of events driving our heroes apart and as they face challenges on their own, they cope with discoveries about each other that is unsettling.
Can our lovers find their way back to each other before one of them makes a decision that will keep them apart, perhaps forever?
Let me begin by saying I adored the first installment of Ella Stainton's Kilty Pleasures series. Joachim and Ainsley became the couple that set the standard for give and take, love and hate, growls and kisses. Their chemistry was palpable and the narration by Cornell Collins was 5 alarm fire hot. I couldn't hardly wait for the next book to be released having listened to Best Laid Plaids about 6 times since September.
I loved the humor and heat between Ainsley and Joachim and the way their family and friends brought out the best and worst in them (See Ainsley here). But in this second outing so much of what I loved about the first wasn't there. The playfulness and brattiness of Ainsley, the growlyness and bossiness of Joachim, interspersed with their very soft and intimate words of love, often whispered in their kiss. This story sent our lovers to different parts of the country and there were very few interactions and the ones they did have were often fraught with misunderstanding and missed opportunities for loving each other in their special way. This story was good in that it showed some growth and stretching in their relationship but I missed the togetherness of them. I loved seeing Ainsley grow, really I did, but I wish it could have happened closer in proximity to Joachim. I hope Ms. Stainton is planning another adventure for our beloved doctors. I know I would love to spend more time with them.
Now on to the narration. Cornell Collins is a master at voices. He nails Ainsley and Joachim and their distinct accents are always a delight. This time Collins has the added pressure to voice Swedes and an American. The American is perfect, with a hint of a drawl, that as a southern woman, I appreciate very much. His Swedish accents were challenging to understand, and I don't think this was because he isn't talented enough to handle them, but because my untrained ear wasn't sure of what he should be saying without text in front of me. He had to do several male and female voices and he certainly met the challenge with aplomb. I plan on re-listening to this story multiple times to pick up the nuances of the language and to hear him growl for Joachim. He does it so well.
I wish everyone would read/listen to Best Laid Plaids and Where there's a Kilt, there's a Way because I think Ella Stainton is a little known treasure of story telling. I'll do my part to promote and support if she keeps up this level of good writing.
I truly hope to visit Ainsley and Joachim again, even if they are merely side characters in Barley's story. I'm always up for more Kilty Pleasures.
April 29, 2021
Well, darn. I was so excited for this and wanted to love it as much as I loved book #1, but no dice. I'm not exactly sure what went wrong. A lot of it unfortunately was the simple confusion I felt trying to keep character straight. At the risk of sounding like a complete wanker, I struggle in books populated with characters with foreign names. This book was full of many very fun and colorful Swedish folks but it was challenging to track them, esp given that it was an audiobook and I couldn't keep up with who was being talked about or referenced. I always love Cornell Collins' narration but between the difficult names and his Swedish accent, I couldn't get into it. Completely did not work for me. Further, some of the magic between Ainsley and Joachim that saturated the first book seemed to be missing here. I didn't like their conflict, it didn't feel real, and it made both characters come off as a bit selfish and assholey. It was quite a downer. I did enjoy the paranormal piece and I was happy once everything resolved. But all in all, Where There's a Kilt was more disappointment than pleasure. Nonetheless, it looks liked there is to be a book #3 ? and if so, I'll def read it and hope things take a turn for the better.
October 2, 2025
2.5 rounded up because I did think the mystery was interesting. My request for more relevance to the ghost stuff in the narrative was fulfilled! Unfortunately, what worked less for me here was the romance, as both characters spent most of the narrative at odds with each other for very valid reasons without actually having any conversations about it, and that was, to be quite honest, exhausting after a while. It could have been rescued by a thorough resolution, but I found that wasn't the case and it felt more like they both suddenly got insights into each other's feelings and got on board with the compromises that had been obvious all book in a few quick strokes (lol) at the end, just so we could enjoy a steamy epilogue.
March 19, 2021
I really enjoyed this sequel! Our heroes are every bit as quirky and lovable as in the first novel. Now Ainsley and Joachim are off to Sweden as visiting professors. It’s a hoot full of mystery, ghosts, and relationship drama.
I really liked that Ainsley and Joachim have typical relationship issues in the story. It grounds the paranormal elements of the novel in the practicalities of a longterm relationship, particularly in academia.
The ghost stuff is not too scary, which I like. It adds to the mystery element.
I can’t wait to read the next installment!
I received an advanced readers copy of this book from the publisher and Net Galley in return for a fair review.
I really liked that Ainsley and Joachim have typical relationship issues in the story. It grounds the paranormal elements of the novel in the practicalities of a longterm relationship, particularly in academia.
The ghost stuff is not too scary, which I like. It adds to the mystery element.
I can’t wait to read the next installment!
I received an advanced readers copy of this book from the publisher and Net Galley in return for a fair review.
March 24, 2021
Where There's a Kilt is such a delightful read. The ghosts are back, along with other supernatural figures. I had so much fun reading about Ainsley and Joachim's shenanigans in Sweden. Ainsley is the same self-absorbed, clueless, scatterbrained character, and Joachim is a great companion for him with his better grasp of reality. There's the return of one minor character from Best Laid Plaids, who gets more of a starring role with a mysterious background. I loved getting to know this character better. There's also the addition a several interesting characters, one an American who is quirky and becomes a surprising ally for Joachim.
I enjoyed book 2 just as much as Book 1, and I'm very much looking forward to Book 3.
***Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.***
I enjoyed book 2 just as much as Book 1, and I'm very much looking forward to Book 3.
***Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.***
dnf
August 12, 2023I made it about a quarter of the way in and decided I'm just not invested enough to finish this. It's fine, but I don't remember the first book that well, and I can't keep the two MCs' point of views straight. And I'm trying to be better about DNFing books I don't love.
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February 1, 2021Categories
Historical, Male/Male, Paranormal, Paranormal Romance, Male/Male Romance, Occult Fiction, Historical Romance
Miniseries
Kilty Pleasures (Book #2)
Historical, Male/Male, Paranormal, Paranormal Romance, Male/Male Romance, Occult Fiction, Historical Romance
Miniseries
Kilty Pleasures (Book #2)
January 27, 2022
2.5
I received an ARC from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I was really excited to read "Where There's a Kilt, There's a Way" because I was ready to give this series another chance. The previous book had a couple of things I did not like but, all in all, it was fairly enjoyable and I especially loved Ainsley and all of the side characters.
I was hoping this second book would finally sell me on this series but I'm a bit disappointed to say it did not. I will be reading the third novel because I'm still curious to see what will happen (and also, that extra chapter at the end was intriguing) but I did not enjoy this as I hoped to.
The story could have really made me fall in love: for one, how many historical romances are set in Sweden? I was SO ready to dive into Ainsley and Joachim's newest adventure. Unfortunately, what I got was story about pointless jealousy and a two MCs that desperately need a crash course on how to communicate properly.
Ainsley chapters were as clever and quirky as I remembered them: I loved him, his peculiarities and forgetfulness, his slightly shallow but nevertheless endearing personality and his POVs were delightful and fun and interesting.
Joachim, on the other hand, I could not stand. I really did not like his chapters and his jealousy and insecurity made them drag on. He also treated Ainsley a bit like an child: I'm all for gruff over-protective MCs caring for their other half, but I did not like how he acted at all.
All of the other side characters were delightful though. Ginny, especially, was loads of fun and I kind of wish she would get her own novel or short story.
I also liked the author's writing style much more here: it felt smoother and flowed more easily for me.
I'll be reading the third one, hoping it will be better, but if, unlike me, you wholly loved the first book, you'll probably love this one too.
I received an ARC from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I was really excited to read "Where There's a Kilt, There's a Way" because I was ready to give this series another chance. The previous book had a couple of things I did not like but, all in all, it was fairly enjoyable and I especially loved Ainsley and all of the side characters.
I was hoping this second book would finally sell me on this series but I'm a bit disappointed to say it did not. I will be reading the third novel because I'm still curious to see what will happen (and also, that extra chapter at the end was intriguing) but I did not enjoy this as I hoped to.
The story could have really made me fall in love: for one, how many historical romances are set in Sweden? I was SO ready to dive into Ainsley and Joachim's newest adventure. Unfortunately, what I got was story about pointless jealousy and a two MCs that desperately need a crash course on how to communicate properly.
Ainsley chapters were as clever and quirky as I remembered them: I loved him, his peculiarities and forgetfulness, his slightly shallow but nevertheless endearing personality and his POVs were delightful and fun and interesting.
Joachim, on the other hand, I could not stand. I really did not like his chapters and his jealousy and insecurity made them drag on. He also treated Ainsley a bit like an child: I'm all for gruff over-protective MCs caring for their other half, but I did not like how he acted at all.
All of the other side characters were delightful though. Ginny, especially, was loads of fun and I kind of wish she would get her own novel or short story.
I also liked the author's writing style much more here: it felt smoother and flowed more easily for me.
I'll be reading the third one, hoping it will be better, but if, unlike me, you wholly loved the first book, you'll probably love this one too.
January 25, 2021
I’m sorry to say I didn’t enjoy this sequel as much as the first book. I know it’s always said that the sequel never lives up to its predecessor but it was worth a shot.
Romance sequels often seem to focus on huge negatives in relationships: trust, jealousy, self-esteem. It was almost painful to read the interactions between the main couple because I just wanted to yell “COMMUNICATE” like a dalek. Yes, I know, relationships are difficult and communication is hard, but dear gods I just want to see an established couple that trusts each other like many actual couples do. I know that books need drama but hello—this is set in a world where ghosts exist. Isn’t that just a natural font of drama!?
And maybe I’m remembering the first book in a better light, but I think the writing has sort of devolved here. It almost felt...lazy?
Clearly I didn’t enjoy this book, but I guess stories about jealous, poor-communicating lovers just aren’t for me.
Romance sequels often seem to focus on huge negatives in relationships: trust, jealousy, self-esteem. It was almost painful to read the interactions between the main couple because I just wanted to yell “COMMUNICATE” like a dalek. Yes, I know, relationships are difficult and communication is hard, but dear gods I just want to see an established couple that trusts each other like many actual couples do. I know that books need drama but hello—this is set in a world where ghosts exist. Isn’t that just a natural font of drama!?
And maybe I’m remembering the first book in a better light, but I think the writing has sort of devolved here. It almost felt...lazy?
Clearly I didn’t enjoy this book, but I guess stories about jealous, poor-communicating lovers just aren’t for me.
April 14, 2021
5 stars because I love these guys so much, with many lovable characters added to the mix. I can't wait for more of them and the cooky paranormal mysteries that drop into their laps.
August 28, 2023
My review is on StoryGraph.
March 30, 2021
Originally posted on You Have Your Hands Full
How excited am I to get another round of Ainsley and Joachim? SO EXCITED!
This book takes our duo to Sweden, where Joachim has a temporary post and Ainsley is researching a ghost moose. Jealousy arises when Joachim learns that Ainsley will be traveling with a strapping blonde professor with similar inclinations to their own, but the green-eyed monster becomes a secondary priority when it’s revealed that the aforementioned handsome gentleman may have murdered his last lover.
Confession: at first, I was somewhat sad that Ainsley and Joachim spend so much time apart in this book. But then I realized the advantages to this dynamic: they spent most of the first book together, and they’ve spent two years between books together as well. Separating allows the reader to gain a better appreciation for their interactions with other people and forces them to rely on themselves rather than insulating themselves against the outside world. Quite frankly, it also made the moments when they were together even more delightful because absence makes the heart grow fonder… or something like that.
So, because our two protagonists spend so much time apart, they need the support of a strong cast of secondary characters: a mix of familiar faces from the first book as well as several new ones, who might also not be what they appear to be on the surface.
This book was hilarious and had me smiling and laughing throughout. Ainsley is my favorite, mostly because he’s a complete gremlin, but even the serious Joachim managed to get himself into some amusing scrapes.
And yes, there are ghosts. They pop in to offer their opinion and help out as needed, and they are an intriguing addition to the cast. They are not the only paranormal phenomenon, but I can’t say anything more or I’ll give too much away.
I would absolutely recommend Where There’s a Kilt, There’s a Way. I would suggest starting with the beginning of the series before reading this book. Stainton is one of my favorite authors of queer romance and I love the amazingly creative world she has built for her duo. I especially love that Ainsley has ADHD; being neurodivergent myself, I’m always happy when I see neurodivergent representation in romance always makes me happy. I’m already looking forward to Ainsley and Joachim’s next adventure.
I received an ARC of this book from Carina Press/Netgalley.
How excited am I to get another round of Ainsley and Joachim? SO EXCITED!
This book takes our duo to Sweden, where Joachim has a temporary post and Ainsley is researching a ghost moose. Jealousy arises when Joachim learns that Ainsley will be traveling with a strapping blonde professor with similar inclinations to their own, but the green-eyed monster becomes a secondary priority when it’s revealed that the aforementioned handsome gentleman may have murdered his last lover.
Confession: at first, I was somewhat sad that Ainsley and Joachim spend so much time apart in this book. But then I realized the advantages to this dynamic: they spent most of the first book together, and they’ve spent two years between books together as well. Separating allows the reader to gain a better appreciation for their interactions with other people and forces them to rely on themselves rather than insulating themselves against the outside world. Quite frankly, it also made the moments when they were together even more delightful because absence makes the heart grow fonder… or something like that.
So, because our two protagonists spend so much time apart, they need the support of a strong cast of secondary characters: a mix of familiar faces from the first book as well as several new ones, who might also not be what they appear to be on the surface.
This book was hilarious and had me smiling and laughing throughout. Ainsley is my favorite, mostly because he’s a complete gremlin, but even the serious Joachim managed to get himself into some amusing scrapes.
And yes, there are ghosts. They pop in to offer their opinion and help out as needed, and they are an intriguing addition to the cast. They are not the only paranormal phenomenon, but I can’t say anything more or I’ll give too much away.
I would absolutely recommend Where There’s a Kilt, There’s a Way. I would suggest starting with the beginning of the series before reading this book. Stainton is one of my favorite authors of queer romance and I love the amazingly creative world she has built for her duo. I especially love that Ainsley has ADHD; being neurodivergent myself, I’m always happy when I see neurodivergent representation in romance always makes me happy. I’m already looking forward to Ainsley and Joachim’s next adventure.
I received an ARC of this book from Carina Press/Netgalley.
March 7, 2021
This is the second book in the “Kilty Pleasures” series, and it was fun to spend time with Dr. Graham and Dr. Cockburn (Ainsley and Joachim) once again. In this story, Ainsley heads off on a field expedition to Sweden to research folklore about a ghostly moose (I know, right?). The kicker is that the Swedish professor who Ainsley will be accompanying may be a murderer — or at least, the ghost who’s haunting Joachim claims that he is. Worried that his lover’s life is in jeopardy, Joachim rushes off to Sweden to his aid. The two men then take it upon themselves to solve the ghost’s murder and bring the culprit to justice.
As was the case with the first book, there was plenty of fun and witty banter between our two main characters, lovable and quirky secondary characters, lots of zany situations, as well as misunderstandings and jealousy along the way. There were even gnomes!
I loved the chemistry between Ainsley and Joachim and enjoyed how the story was told from both of their points of view. allowing us a glimpse into each other’s thoughts. The story wasn’t only entertaining with its captivating setting, but the author also gives us a compelling ghostly mystery to solve. This is one of those warm, fuzzy stories where everyone gets what they deserve in the end, in the very best possible ways. But it’s the romance between Ainsley and Joachim that still steals the show. Their bond is a powerful one, and I adored their interactions.
The author has created a delightful world here, and I look forward to reading more books in this series with these endearing characters. There’s something about the comfortable familiarity, as well as the charm and lightheartedness with which the author approaches the world-building and the characters, that’s just fun.
As was the case with the first book, there was plenty of fun and witty banter between our two main characters, lovable and quirky secondary characters, lots of zany situations, as well as misunderstandings and jealousy along the way. There were even gnomes!
I loved the chemistry between Ainsley and Joachim and enjoyed how the story was told from both of their points of view. allowing us a glimpse into each other’s thoughts. The story wasn’t only entertaining with its captivating setting, but the author also gives us a compelling ghostly mystery to solve. This is one of those warm, fuzzy stories where everyone gets what they deserve in the end, in the very best possible ways. But it’s the romance between Ainsley and Joachim that still steals the show. Their bond is a powerful one, and I adored their interactions.
The author has created a delightful world here, and I look forward to reading more books in this series with these endearing characters. There’s something about the comfortable familiarity, as well as the charm and lightheartedness with which the author approaches the world-building and the characters, that’s just fun.
August 5, 2022
"One of them needed to be present in the here-and-now at all times, and it certainly wasn’t going to be him."
Where There’s a Kilt There’s a Way is Ella Stainton’s second book in her Kilty Pleasures series. Don’t let the tongue-in-cheek title fool you; this is an accomplished and delightful murder mystery/romance that revisits the characters from book 1, Best Laid Plaids. The writing is strong, filled with period nuance, and the pacing is impeccable.
Set in 1930, book 2 finds Dr. Ainsley Graham, a folklorist and academic disgraced for having written about the existence of ghosts, and his lover Dr. Joachim Cockburn, a psychologist whose work is based on his skill in helping Ainsley with his “brain fidgets” (or what we call Attention Deficit Disorder), both heading to Sweden. Having secured lecturing positions there for the summer, the plan is to rehabilitate Ainsley’s reputation while solidifying Joachim’s efforts to establish more humane psychological practices. But Joachim didn’t plan on Ainsley’s Swedish host, the tall, beautiful, and muscular Dr. Martin Jeppsson, having an eye for Ainsley.
Nor did Joachim plan on the rumors surrounding Jeppsson that he killed the heirs of a Swedish shipping fortune. Or the ghost of one of the heirs haunting them. Or the ghost of Ainsley’s father tagging along. Add in a mysterious American clairvoyant, a dangerous Swedish bridge, a strange university student with an unknown agenda, a barkeep turned nanny, a spoiled teenager, and a random assortment of gnomes, trolls and a ghost moose, and you have the makings of a thoroughly enjoyable story.
The third book, Clash of the Tartans, was due last Fall but has apparently been delayed. But once it drops, I’m diving in.
Where There’s a Kilt There’s a Way is Ella Stainton’s second book in her Kilty Pleasures series. Don’t let the tongue-in-cheek title fool you; this is an accomplished and delightful murder mystery/romance that revisits the characters from book 1, Best Laid Plaids. The writing is strong, filled with period nuance, and the pacing is impeccable.
Set in 1930, book 2 finds Dr. Ainsley Graham, a folklorist and academic disgraced for having written about the existence of ghosts, and his lover Dr. Joachim Cockburn, a psychologist whose work is based on his skill in helping Ainsley with his “brain fidgets” (or what we call Attention Deficit Disorder), both heading to Sweden. Having secured lecturing positions there for the summer, the plan is to rehabilitate Ainsley’s reputation while solidifying Joachim’s efforts to establish more humane psychological practices. But Joachim didn’t plan on Ainsley’s Swedish host, the tall, beautiful, and muscular Dr. Martin Jeppsson, having an eye for Ainsley.
Nor did Joachim plan on the rumors surrounding Jeppsson that he killed the heirs of a Swedish shipping fortune. Or the ghost of one of the heirs haunting them. Or the ghost of Ainsley’s father tagging along. Add in a mysterious American clairvoyant, a dangerous Swedish bridge, a strange university student with an unknown agenda, a barkeep turned nanny, a spoiled teenager, and a random assortment of gnomes, trolls and a ghost moose, and you have the makings of a thoroughly enjoyable story.
The third book, Clash of the Tartans, was due last Fall but has apparently been delayed. But once it drops, I’m diving in.
March 22, 2021
Ayant adoré le 1er tome, j'étais impatiente de découvrir la suite des aventures de Joachim et Ainsley, deux ans après leur rencontre !
Malheureusement, ce second opus m'a un peu moins emballée...
L'intrigue se déroule en Suède, nos deux comparses quittent l'Ecosse pour que Joachim puisse enseigner et Ainsley enquêter sur un mystérieux élan fantôme ! Mais ce voyage ne se passera pas comme prévu et le danger menace...
Le folklore scandinave est très présent, et j'ai adoré ce mélange entre romance historique et paranormale qui confère une atmosphère singulière au récit..Le mystère qui plane a été facilement élucidé de mon côté mais il donnera du fil à retordre à nos deux héros et parvient à nous tenir en haleine.
Ma petite déception s'explique en parie par l'attitude des héros ! Ils m'ont vraiment exaspérée par moment...J'ai trouvé Ainsley très dur à l'égard de Joachim, même si ce dernier est un peu maladroit et bien, il ne méritait d'être traitée de la sorte. J'aurais aimé que les deux hommes communiquent davantage et ne se comportent pas comme deux enfants capricieux aussi souvent! Le fait qu'il passe une bonne partie du récit séparés n'a pas aidé...j'aurais aimé plus de moments intimes.
Néanmoins ce roman offre un sympathique moment de dépaysement !
Malheureusement, ce second opus m'a un peu moins emballée...
L'intrigue se déroule en Suède, nos deux comparses quittent l'Ecosse pour que Joachim puisse enseigner et Ainsley enquêter sur un mystérieux élan fantôme ! Mais ce voyage ne se passera pas comme prévu et le danger menace...
Le folklore scandinave est très présent, et j'ai adoré ce mélange entre romance historique et paranormale qui confère une atmosphère singulière au récit..Le mystère qui plane a été facilement élucidé de mon côté mais il donnera du fil à retordre à nos deux héros et parvient à nous tenir en haleine.
Ma petite déception s'explique en parie par l'attitude des héros ! Ils m'ont vraiment exaspérée par moment...J'ai trouvé Ainsley très dur à l'égard de Joachim, même si ce dernier est un peu maladroit et bien, il ne méritait d'être traitée de la sorte. J'aurais aimé que les deux hommes communiquent davantage et ne se comportent pas comme deux enfants capricieux aussi souvent! Le fait qu'il passe une bonne partie du récit séparés n'a pas aidé...j'aurais aimé plus de moments intimes.
Néanmoins ce roman offre un sympathique moment de dépaysement !
October 28, 2021
Hilarious follow up to Best Laid Plaids. This time, our lovers are now in Sweden, where Joachim has a temporary post and Ainsley is researching a ghost moose (just roll with it).
In the service of this riveting research, Ainsley will be traveling with a strapping blonde professor but it's Joachim who is struck jealous until our handsome doctor is suspected of murdering his previous lover. This time, our grumpy/sunshine duo are getting themselves into more scraps than ever, especially of the paranormal variety. The ghosts in this novel are as much characters as any of their flesh and blood counterparts.
I love duos/trilogies that feature the same characters, where the reader has the opportunity to enjoy the development of a relationship from the in-love phase to the point where they build from all that passion and heat something that has is strong enough to last.
Ainsley and Joachim's chemistry is as strong as ever and while every bit the flawed characters, they grow and recover from their mistakes. The writing voice is excellent and the humor is every bit as sharp as book 1. I can hardly wait until the publication of book 3.
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
In the service of this riveting research, Ainsley will be traveling with a strapping blonde professor but it's Joachim who is struck jealous until our handsome doctor is suspected of murdering his previous lover. This time, our grumpy/sunshine duo are getting themselves into more scraps than ever, especially of the paranormal variety. The ghosts in this novel are as much characters as any of their flesh and blood counterparts.
I love duos/trilogies that feature the same characters, where the reader has the opportunity to enjoy the development of a relationship from the in-love phase to the point where they build from all that passion and heat something that has is strong enough to last.
Ainsley and Joachim's chemistry is as strong as ever and while every bit the flawed characters, they grow and recover from their mistakes. The writing voice is excellent and the humor is every bit as sharp as book 1. I can hardly wait until the publication of book 3.
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
April 13, 2021
4 Stars
Where There's a Kilt, There's a Way is the second book in the Kilty Pleasures series by Ella Stainton and picks up 2 years after the end of book one. I really liked the mix of historical and supernatural elements that we got to see in the first book, so I was excited to see what this book would have to offer, especially with the change in setting from Scotland to Sweden. Overall I did quite enjoy this novel, but unfortunately I found it wasn't as strong as the first book, and there were a few elements that I was not overly fond of. First of all there was much more emphasis on the mundane murder plot, and less on the supernatural/folklore elements. I would have much rather have read more about the latter and less of the former. Secondly our MCs are separated for a fair portion of the book without any contact. While this does allow us to see the story from the two different angles, I still found this frustrating. I also found this portion of the book to be the least interesting and my attention wandered fairly often as it dragged on a bit too long for my liking. Happily, the action did pick right up once Ainsley and Joachim were reunited and the mystery plot involved more of the supernatural elements. By the end of the novel, it was easier to recognize the bits that I liked so much in the first book, in this book as well. Ultimately, I quite enjoyed this unique and imaginative story and I would love to read more about these two delightful academics.
Where There's a Kilt, There's a Way is the second book in the Kilty Pleasures series by Ella Stainton and picks up 2 years after the end of book one. I really liked the mix of historical and supernatural elements that we got to see in the first book, so I was excited to see what this book would have to offer, especially with the change in setting from Scotland to Sweden. Overall I did quite enjoy this novel, but unfortunately I found it wasn't as strong as the first book, and there were a few elements that I was not overly fond of. First of all there was much more emphasis on the mundane murder plot, and less on the supernatural/folklore elements. I would have much rather have read more about the latter and less of the former. Secondly our MCs are separated for a fair portion of the book without any contact. While this does allow us to see the story from the two different angles, I still found this frustrating. I also found this portion of the book to be the least interesting and my attention wandered fairly often as it dragged on a bit too long for my liking. Happily, the action did pick right up once Ainsley and Joachim were reunited and the mystery plot involved more of the supernatural elements. By the end of the novel, it was easier to recognize the bits that I liked so much in the first book, in this book as well. Ultimately, I quite enjoyed this unique and imaginative story and I would love to read more about these two delightful academics.
March 22, 2021
It usually doesn't take me long to read a book, so the length of time I took is an indication of my reading preferences. As an established couple, I was looking forwarding to spending time with Drs Graham and Cockburn, their back-and-forth banter, and the mystery to solve (involving ghosts).
I was excited to see where we were headed this time (Sweden), but was slightly disappointed when they arrived that they were almost immediately separated. Both Ainsley and Joachim work out their individual parts of the crime, but for me, it took a bit too long to get them back together.
Mind you, once the story developed, I was on board, and raced through the last third, but I guess I didn't quite enjoy it as much as the first. Although, the first chapter of number 3 was goood....
Recommended pick this up, if you enjoyed the first one, and like a historical mystery ghost romantic story -- because basically it has all the things.
Thanks Netgalley and Carina Press for advanced copy. Comes out April 23 (tomorrow)
I was excited to see where we were headed this time (Sweden), but was slightly disappointed when they arrived that they were almost immediately separated. Both Ainsley and Joachim work out their individual parts of the crime, but for me, it took a bit too long to get them back together.
Mind you, once the story developed, I was on board, and raced through the last third, but I guess I didn't quite enjoy it as much as the first. Although, the first chapter of number 3 was goood....
Recommended pick this up, if you enjoyed the first one, and like a historical mystery ghost romantic story -- because basically it has all the things.
Thanks Netgalley and Carina Press for advanced copy. Comes out April 23 (tomorrow)
March 27, 2021
Audio Review:
Overall – 5
Performance – 5
Story – 4
Another good visit with Ainsley and Joachim.
This story didn’t grab me quite as much as the first one, Best Laid Plaids, but I still really enjoyed it. Cornell Collins did another fine job with the audiobook.
There’s a bit of angst and tension between Ainsley and Joachim and their relationship seems in danger of falling apart at times but I knew it would all resolve and they would stay happy together. It was kind of refreshing to read them having the same kind of relationship problems that most couples have.
I enjoyed reading about Sweden and the sauna scene, and what followed, in the epilogue was fun! I’m really happy to know that there will be another story in this series and I’m looking forward to reading it.
A review copy was provided by the publisher via NetGalley but this did not influence my opinion or rating of the book. I listened to the audiobook courtesy of my library.
Overall – 5
Performance – 5
Story – 4
Another good visit with Ainsley and Joachim.
This story didn’t grab me quite as much as the first one, Best Laid Plaids, but I still really enjoyed it. Cornell Collins did another fine job with the audiobook.
There’s a bit of angst and tension between Ainsley and Joachim and their relationship seems in danger of falling apart at times but I knew it would all resolve and they would stay happy together. It was kind of refreshing to read them having the same kind of relationship problems that most couples have.
I enjoyed reading about Sweden and the sauna scene, and what followed, in the epilogue was fun! I’m really happy to know that there will be another story in this series and I’m looking forward to reading it.
A review copy was provided by the publisher via NetGalley but this did not influence my opinion or rating of the book. I listened to the audiobook courtesy of my library.
March 27, 2021
Bit of a mess, this one. I wasn't as much of a fan of the first one as most people but I was willing to give this one another chance. But, man... I think this should have gone back to the drawing room, it needs focus, less characters and a tighter narrative. As it stands, it drags, and doesn't really know where it's going. I am sure that the writing was better in the first instalment.
- The folklore aspects cluttered up the narrative and didn't really contribute much
- The jealousy and miscommunication got tiresome really fast
- I am not a big fan of the "separating the MC for most of the book" trope
- The writing meandered and dragged and was extremely cheesy at times (his brute, his Scotsman, his Englishman, etc etc)
- I know historical accuracy is not what these books are going for but these two just reveal their illegal, highly taboo relationship willy-nilly and most people are fine with it, which was a bit jarring.
Not sure if I will continue the series.
- The folklore aspects cluttered up the narrative and didn't really contribute much
- The jealousy and miscommunication got tiresome really fast
- I am not a big fan of the "separating the MC for most of the book" trope
- The writing meandered and dragged and was extremely cheesy at times (his brute, his Scotsman, his Englishman, etc etc)
- I know historical accuracy is not what these books are going for but these two just reveal their illegal, highly taboo relationship willy-nilly and most people are fine with it, which was a bit jarring.
Not sure if I will continue the series.
March 25, 2021
*Netgalley arc*
Pretty entertaining, it was maybe a bit too confusing when it came to the plot and some parts weren't fully explained. I think they needed more details.
The romantic storyline was a bit overdramatic, let's say unnecessary. I liked both Ainsley and Joachim but, even after years together, they still need to work hard on their communication skills. You can't practically break up after a misunderstanding. Who does that??
I must say this sequel was less confusing that book 1 since I always knew whose chapter I was reading about even without reading the name at the beginning of it. The fluency of the narration improved a lot since the first book.
I'm now really curious to know what will happen in book 3.
Pretty entertaining, it was maybe a bit too confusing when it came to the plot and some parts weren't fully explained. I think they needed more details.
The romantic storyline was a bit overdramatic, let's say unnecessary. I liked both Ainsley and Joachim but, even after years together, they still need to work hard on their communication skills. You can't practically break up after a misunderstanding. Who does that??
I must say this sequel was less confusing that book 1 since I always knew whose chapter I was reading about even without reading the name at the beginning of it. The fluency of the narration improved a lot since the first book.
I'm now really curious to know what will happen in book 3.
April 27, 2021
Loved the first book in the series and really looked forward to seeing more of Ainsley and Joachim grow and deal with each other's issues but this book they spent at, least half of it apart. I found myself losing track of the characters, losing interest in the story. The build up of stories related to moose: ghost ones or drunk ones, fell flat for me when they came around. The insight into some of the traits of the Swedes especially the tooth sucking habit (that I googled to hear what it actually sounded like) was especially interesting.
I'm still looking forward to the next installment because I do love reading about these two! This time I was just a little let down...or had higher expectations after the first story?
I'm still looking forward to the next installment because I do love reading about these two! This time I was just a little let down...or had higher expectations after the first story?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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