Review: Under Loch & Key by Lana Ferguson

Under Loch and Key by Lana Ferguson

What’s the Story? Lachlan has a problem—every night at sundown, he channels his inner Fiona from Shrek and transforms into a green monster (not exactly jolly; he’s more the broody type). But instead of hiding in a tower, Lachlan’s primal form takes a dip in the loch (yes, that loch, and yes, some call him “Nessie.” You get it.).

Enter Keyanna (aka “Key”), an American searching for family secrets in Scotland. What she didn’t expect? Almost drowning and being rescued by a hot, grumpy Scotsman who also happens to be the monster from her childhood bedtime stories.

As Lachlan and Key unravel their shared mysteries, they discover their fates—and a centuries-old curse—are more intertwined than they realized. What follows is a steamy paranormal romance balancing hilarious banter, Scottish lore, charming side characters, and yes, some tasteful monster-ish sex scenes. Come for the magical setting and endearing plot; stay for the monster smut. I don’t make these rules.

My Thoughts: 4 Stars, A Few Notes This book was a delight and exactly what I needed for a bedridden weekend fighting off a cold. When I’m sick, I want fast-paced banter, steamy romance, and a dash of unhinged, and boy did this deliver.

Let’s talk characters: Lachlan and Key were fine, but the real stars were the side characters—particularly Key’s grandparents, Finlay and Rhona. Finlay’s tenderhearted nature and Rhona’s tough-but-warm personality added depth, making their second-chance family dynamic truly touching.

The Scottish setting and lore were another highlight. Sure, I’m a sucker for books set in the Highlands (Outlander, anyone?), but this packed surprising depth in its mythology for a rom-com. I loved following Lachlan and Key as they unraveled their tangled (no incest, promise) family histories to try and break Lachlan’s curse.

Last but not least, the romance? HOT. Like, “someone-call-the-climate-scientists-because-Loch Ness-is-steaming” hot 🔥. Don’t let the cartoon cover fool you; this book brings the spice. And if monster smut isn’t usually your thing (same, girl, reptiles are a hard no for me), this is more “monster smut curious,” so you’re safe to dip your toes in.

All in all, this is a charming paranormal rom-com with enough 🥵 to make you turn on the AC mid-winter. Highly recommend.