Book Review: The Laird's Right-Hand Lady by Catherine E. Chapman

The Laird's Right-Hand Lady by Catherine E. Chapman is a contemporary romance. Jess Fielding is Cameron McCallum’s newly-appointed personal assistant. He is due to take over from his father as Laird on their Scottish Highland estate. Used to the corporate world, Jess finds that, whilst the professional demands of her new role are straightforward, the domestic and family dynamics in Cameron’s stately home leave her feeling daunted. Instantly attracted to Cameron, Jess begins to suspect that her feelings are reciprocated. But the appearance of Alexandra, an old university friend of Cameron’s, upsets their blossoming romance. Cameron’s father is determined that his son should make a match fit for a Laird. Will Cameron live up to his father’s expectations or follow his heart?

The Laird's Right-Hand Lady is a good romance. I liked the set of characters, and even the most unlikable were written to be so. Cameron's father is exactly who he is supposed to be, and only made me love Cameron's mother that much more in contrast. Jess is a smart and capable woman, and Cameron is a sweet but strong man. The conversation and connection between the two was nice, and kept me reading. I thought the secondary characters were as well done as the main characters, and I would not mind having read a little more about them.I found the staff and family dynamics to be on point, and enjoyed seeing some of those friendships and connections grow throughout the book. My only real issue with the book is that no one really ever discusses or ponders the moral or ethical implications about the relationship- at least not until it is really no longer an issue. I know the boss/assistant trope is a thing- but in all the romances I have that that use it include the dilemma of whether it is wrong or odd and here that is just completely ignored.  However, maybe that it just my hang up, so it might not even come up on anyone else's radar.

The Laird's Right-Hand Lady is a solid romance with no explicit scenes (for those that care about such things). The characters are well done, and the read engaging. I am glad I gave it a chance.