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True Scotsman #3
The Highland Crush
Iona Stewart, the girl I grew up with, is back in Bannock, and it’s like a fresh wound has opened up.
Memories of our time together—our childhood mischief, the twilight talks by the loch, the nights we spent wrapped in each other’s arms—come crashing back.
Things between us couldn’t be more different now. She avoids me at all costs. On those rare occasions we do speak, she keeps it civil, for the sake of our families, but she can’t hide the disdain from her eyes.
She has every reason to hate me. Six years ago, I broke her heart. That day I lost not just my best friend but the only woman I’ve ever loved.
I’ve spent years at the gym, bulking up, trying to sweat out the guilt and regret. But it hasn’t worked, and having her here again—and just across the street—is a special kind of torture.
I want her back. I need her back. But how do you win over the girl whose heart you shattered? And even if she does give me a second chance, do I deserve it?
Memories of our time together—our childhood mischief, the twilight talks by the loch, the nights we spent wrapped in each other’s arms—come crashing back.
Things between us couldn’t be more different now. She avoids me at all costs. On those rare occasions we do speak, she keeps it civil, for the sake of our families, but she can’t hide the disdain from her eyes.
She has every reason to hate me. Six years ago, I broke her heart. That day I lost not just my best friend but the only woman I’ve ever loved.
I’ve spent years at the gym, bulking up, trying to sweat out the guilt and regret. But it hasn’t worked, and having her here again—and just across the street—is a special kind of torture.
I want her back. I need her back. But how do you win over the girl whose heart you shattered? And even if she does give me a second chance, do I deserve it?
270 pages, ebook
First published July 30, 2024
234 people are currently reading
368 people want to read
About the author
Amy McGavin
13 books59 followersAmy McGavin is the pen name of a Scottish wife-and-husband writing team whose real names are… Amy and Gavin.
The couple’s contemporary romance novels are set in the Highlands. Each story is crafted with humour and heart, with a wee bit of heat thrown in.
The pair live in Glasgow with their daughter and very lively cocker spaniel. When they’re not writing, they enjoy exploring Scotland’s breathtaking hills, glens, and beaches, then treating themselves to coffee and cake afterwards.
To keep up to date with all their publishing news, and gain access to exclusive bonus content, join their newsletter.
The couple’s contemporary romance novels are set in the Highlands. Each story is crafted with humour and heart, with a wee bit of heat thrown in.
The pair live in Glasgow with their daughter and very lively cocker spaniel. When they’re not writing, they enjoy exploring Scotland’s breathtaking hills, glens, and beaches, then treating themselves to coffee and cake afterwards.
To keep up to date with all their publishing news, and gain access to exclusive bonus content, join their newsletter.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews
March 5, 2025
I was sooo pleased that Lewis and Iona got their happy ending and I was literally on verge of tears with happiness at the end. I love that the m other characters make their appearances as well. I was intrigued to know what had happened between them both, and when it came to light I was surprised. I think it showed a side of what grief can do and how people deal with it differently. Definitely my favourite book so far of this series ekkkk! ❤️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 2, 2024
[I was provided an ARC copy by the author in exchange for an honest review.]
I normally am not a second chance romance girlie, but I could not put this book down!
I adored the FMC and MMC, and their interactions with each other. their growth both separately and together was what kept me hooked. and both of their humor and personalities (and their hilarious bedroom antics) had me constantly laughing.
I also lovedddd the side characters and all of the family members. I read this book as a stand alone, but now I really want to dive into the other books to get their stories too.
the book taking place in Scotland and kilts being mentioned definitely helped😂
spice 2/5🌶️
I normally am not a second chance romance girlie, but I could not put this book down!
I adored the FMC and MMC, and their interactions with each other. their growth both separately and together was what kept me hooked. and both of their humor and personalities (and their hilarious bedroom antics) had me constantly laughing.
I also lovedddd the side characters and all of the family members. I read this book as a stand alone, but now I really want to dive into the other books to get their stories too.
the book taking place in Scotland and kilts being mentioned definitely helped😂
spice 2/5🌶️
July 26, 2024
I was lucky to receive an ARC of this book yesterday, hence why I stayed up til 2 am yesterday morning to finish The Highland Fling (book 2). I discovered @amymcgavinbooks via a tiktok on my fyp and ran to download The Highland Kiss (book 1) absolutely love this series....hope its not the last as it would be great to have a story for Jamie and also one for Cat.
@amymcgavinbooks is a husband and wife duo Amy & Gavin, the absolutely write so well together, safe to say they are now an absolute auto-buy for me!
@amymcgavinbooks is a husband and wife duo Amy & Gavin, the absolutely write so well together, safe to say they are now an absolute auto-buy for me!
July 31, 2024
I was lucky to receive this book as an Arc copy.
Again I found myself nestled in the streets of Bannock with a visit to Glasgow and Edinburgh as an extra bonus. Ow how I love the McIntyre boys…
The chemistry between Iona and Lewis was sizzling hot and I loved all the banter between those 2
These books deserve a place on my bookshelfs and not only on my kindle. Praise to you Amy and Gavin
Again I found myself nestled in the streets of Bannock with a visit to Glasgow and Edinburgh as an extra bonus. Ow how I love the McIntyre boys…
The chemistry between Iona and Lewis was sizzling hot and I loved all the banter between those 2
These books deserve a place on my bookshelfs and not only on my kindle. Praise to you Amy and Gavin
August 7, 2024
Making amends - will that be enough?
Both Lewis and Iona were meant for each other until Lewis destroyed what they had.
All these years later can he make amends and his way back to her?Even if it’s just friendship?
Join these best friends on their journey - from young love to sadness, then anger, lots of laughs, plenty of reminiscing, sweet moments mixed in with some funny sexual banter plus steamy scenes.
A wonderful storyline with great characters that kept me enthralled to the end.
This is my first novel I’ve read by this husband and wife duo and it will not be my last.
The Highland Crush is Book 3 in the series and can easily be read as a stand alone.
I absolutely loved this story so much that I’m going to have to go back and read books 1 & 2.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Both Lewis and Iona were meant for each other until Lewis destroyed what they had.
All these years later can he make amends and his way back to her?Even if it’s just friendship?
Join these best friends on their journey - from young love to sadness, then anger, lots of laughs, plenty of reminiscing, sweet moments mixed in with some funny sexual banter plus steamy scenes.
A wonderful storyline with great characters that kept me enthralled to the end.
This is my first novel I’ve read by this husband and wife duo and it will not be my last.
The Highland Crush is Book 3 in the series and can easily be read as a stand alone.
I absolutely loved this story so much that I’m going to have to go back and read books 1 & 2.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 29, 2024
Once again, this series did not disappoint. I loved Iona and Lewis! I can't wait for the next in the series!
January 12, 2025
Lewis and Iona were destined to be together, but circumstances ultimately led Lewis to shatter what they once shared. Now, years later, the question looms: can he find a way to make amends and reconnect with Iona? Even if it means rebuilding their relationship as friends?
Once again, this series has exceeded my expectations. I found myself fully invested in Iona and Lewis's journey! Many of us have been eagerly awaiting the unfolding of their story since they were first introduced in *The Highland Kiss*. This beautifully crafted book covers the complexities of childhood sweethearts navigating the waters of second chances, infused with deliciously spicy anticipation and suspenseful twists. As they grew up just across the street from each other—Lewis in his family's quaint hotel and Iona in a charming home opposite—readers are invited to witness the evolution of their relationship.
The authors masterfully capture the profound emotions that the characters experience, spanning both their shared past and their present struggles. By intertwining themes of past traumas with emotional heartbreak and the hope of romance, this story delivers an authentic portrayal of a second chance at love—one that feels genuine and relatable.
The chemistry between Iona and Lewis is electric, filled with witty dialogue that highlights their playful banter and deep connection. This talented husband-and-wife writing duo has a remarkable ability to craft compelling characters that resonate with readers. The writing is not only intelligent but also filled with tasteful romantic elements that add depth to the narrative.
As the characters unfold in each book of this series, they quickly begin to feel like family, leaving readers rooting for their happiness and success. Throughout the story, there are numerous laugh-out-loud moments that provide a delightful balance to the emotional journey, making it an enjoyable and memorable read.
Once again, this series has exceeded my expectations. I found myself fully invested in Iona and Lewis's journey! Many of us have been eagerly awaiting the unfolding of their story since they were first introduced in *The Highland Kiss*. This beautifully crafted book covers the complexities of childhood sweethearts navigating the waters of second chances, infused with deliciously spicy anticipation and suspenseful twists. As they grew up just across the street from each other—Lewis in his family's quaint hotel and Iona in a charming home opposite—readers are invited to witness the evolution of their relationship.
The authors masterfully capture the profound emotions that the characters experience, spanning both their shared past and their present struggles. By intertwining themes of past traumas with emotional heartbreak and the hope of romance, this story delivers an authentic portrayal of a second chance at love—one that feels genuine and relatable.
The chemistry between Iona and Lewis is electric, filled with witty dialogue that highlights their playful banter and deep connection. This talented husband-and-wife writing duo has a remarkable ability to craft compelling characters that resonate with readers. The writing is not only intelligent but also filled with tasteful romantic elements that add depth to the narrative.
As the characters unfold in each book of this series, they quickly begin to feel like family, leaving readers rooting for their happiness and success. Throughout the story, there are numerous laugh-out-loud moments that provide a delightful balance to the emotional journey, making it an enjoyable and memorable read.
February 10, 2025
I am a huge fan of a good second chance love story, and this is a great one.
A constant in each other’s lives, Iona and Lewis’s enduring friendship has blossomed into something more. The established history between the McIntyre and Stewart families made their romantic involvement almost inevitable. In the aftermath of the life-altering tragedy suffered by Ally, Lewis, Jamie, and Cat, Lewis’s subsequent action severed his connection with Iona. His carelessness upset me because I cared about their relationship, and I was so sad for Iona!! I love when I lose myself in a storyline and become emotionally invested!
I recommend reading this series in order, so the character progression makes the most impact. The pages flipped themselves, and I enjoyed the creative and loving ways Lewis chooses, in an effort to fix the relationship and regain Iona’s friendship. I also enjoyed following the sibling relationships and spirited exchanges.
The steamy and playful connection this couple have is so fun to read, and I loved their HEA. Jamie’s story is next on my reading list, completing my binge-read of the series (which I totally recommend), since you won’t want to be away from Bannock for long.
I was fortunate to receive this story as an ARC (thank you) and happily leave my review.
A constant in each other’s lives, Iona and Lewis’s enduring friendship has blossomed into something more. The established history between the McIntyre and Stewart families made their romantic involvement almost inevitable. In the aftermath of the life-altering tragedy suffered by Ally, Lewis, Jamie, and Cat, Lewis’s subsequent action severed his connection with Iona. His carelessness upset me because I cared about their relationship, and I was so sad for Iona!! I love when I lose myself in a storyline and become emotionally invested!
I recommend reading this series in order, so the character progression makes the most impact. The pages flipped themselves, and I enjoyed the creative and loving ways Lewis chooses, in an effort to fix the relationship and regain Iona’s friendship. I also enjoyed following the sibling relationships and spirited exchanges.
The steamy and playful connection this couple have is so fun to read, and I loved their HEA. Jamie’s story is next on my reading list, completing my binge-read of the series (which I totally recommend), since you won’t want to be away from Bannock for long.
I was fortunate to receive this story as an ARC (thank you) and happily leave my review.
July 28, 2024
I think we have all been waiting patiently for Lewis & Iona's story since we first met them in The Highland Kiss, and Amy & Gavin did not disappoint! This is the 3rd book in the series with the most caring, endearing, sensitive, and quiet of the McIntyre brothers. A classic story of inseparable childhood soulmates until tragedy and circumstances rip them apart. Wronged by Lewis's actions, Iona moved on, but now that she is back in the small town of Bannock, memories and feelings resurface, and Lewis has never moved on. I have loved each of the books in the series, and this one just pulls at the heartstrings. A sweet romance with plenty of whimsical moments (loved The Office & Star Wars references!), and a bit of spice. If you have read the others in the series (and if not, why not?!), then you definitely don't want to miss this one! I'll be looking forward to Jamie's story! Thank you so much to Amy & Gavin for the e-arc! I received an advance review copy for free and am leaving my honest review voluntarily.
July 29, 2024
So Amy and Gavin never miss for me. I love this series so much that I don’t even know what to do with myself when I finish a book besides re read the series. I LOVED LEWIS SO MUCH he was the sweet gym bro who had big muscles and an even bigger dedication to his girl. I loved him and Iona’s playful banter, I was laughing at times, and sad at others. This book was an emotional rollercoaster of real and raw loss, but how love and patience can overcome that. This read was also pretty spicy 🥵 I love that the FMC was a reader and she was so cute and I loved that he took her reading seriously unlike her ex (ugh. Ew). Overall I loved this read and thought it was so damn good I cannot wait for the next one!! 🥹🥹
July 28, 2024
My favourite of the series by a country mile 🥰
I have longed for Lewis and Iona's story since the very first awkward McIntyre/Stewart dinner in the Highland Kiss, and oh boy, did Amy and Gavin deliver an epic story 😎
It's a story of childhood sweethearts, second chances, hot and spicy anticipation, and suspense with naughty pic requests.
The back and forth from the past to the present just set the story up so beautifully, and the banter was lit 🔥
I'm looking at lightsabers and spreadsheets a whole new way 🤪 IYKYK 🤣 and the book signing OMG book me a flight to Scotland because I'm off to find my Lewis 🥰
I have longed for Lewis and Iona's story since the very first awkward McIntyre/Stewart dinner in the Highland Kiss, and oh boy, did Amy and Gavin deliver an epic story 😎
It's a story of childhood sweethearts, second chances, hot and spicy anticipation, and suspense with naughty pic requests.
The back and forth from the past to the present just set the story up so beautifully, and the banter was lit 🔥
I'm looking at lightsabers and spreadsheets a whole new way 🤪 IYKYK 🤣 and the book signing OMG book me a flight to Scotland because I'm off to find my Lewis 🥰
July 30, 2024
Lewis and Iona grew up together, Lewis living in his family's hotel and Iona in the house opposite. Once grown up Iona left to go to university while Lewis worked in the hotel. However, their relationship developed into something more when Lewis visited Iona while she was studying. Family tragedy drove them apart. Years later Iona returned to her home town with her current boyfriend, Richard. But she realises he is not the man for her. Once things end with him, Lewis tries to renew his friendship with Iona and hopes it will become more, but she certainly makes him work for a second chance with her. Heart-warming, funny and steamy story.
August 26, 2024
This book is the third in the series and can be read as a standalone. You will feel all the emotions the characters go through be they past or present. This author weaves a story of past traumas, Kloss of loved ones, and an emotional heartbreak with their present traumas and romance. This is a second chance at love in the best way possible especially when only the FMC has to deal with the past and move one. The characters are enticing and the reader will find every small town quirky personality the like. This is Lewis and Ionia's story and they will grab you by the heart from the very beginning. Well written storyline and character development this author gives us her best effort.
October 15, 2024
I loved this book. I have never read a Scottish inspired story (either British or American) but I loved it. I always had a thing for their language and found Scot’s lovely people (and not bad to look at). The spice wasn’t too much. It did have some language but nothing that everyone says and the description of the sex scenes just would say it started and then trail off. I look forward to reading her other books. And seeing that this one was easy to read without the other is even a plus because they can be read out of order if warranted. Definitely a book I would recommend to someone who enjoyed “Bridgerton” or others like that. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
July 31, 2024
I just finished the 3rd book in @Amy McGavin’s The True Scotsman Series and it’s the best one yet! The witty banter and palpable chemistry between Iona and Lewis is everything! This book has it all: spreadsheets, creative dates, lightsabers and more! Bring yourself to the Highlands by way of Bannock and meet them for yourself!
This husband and wife writing team clearly have what it takes to woo the reader with intelligently written characters with tasteful spice (both open and closed door) and lovely sentiment! The characters quickly become family and you just can’t help but cheer them on!
Now I’ve got to wait for book four (The Highland Game) and I can only imagine it will be as delicious as the first three!
This husband and wife writing team clearly have what it takes to woo the reader with intelligently written characters with tasteful spice (both open and closed door) and lovely sentiment! The characters quickly become family and you just can’t help but cheer them on!
Now I’ve got to wait for book four (The Highland Game) and I can only imagine it will be as delicious as the first three!
August 3, 2024
This was a great book, I was going between 3 and 4 stars because sometimes Iona just seemed so pushy and selfish, when she started off really likeable. All the side characters were so funny, the banter was great, and I loved reading a scottish romance.
There were plenty of laugh out loud moments, and I'd definitely read more by this husband/wife author team.
There were plenty of laugh out loud moments, and I'd definitely read more by this husband/wife author team.
August 5, 2024
Great Second Chance Romance!
Lewis and Iona were childhood friends and in a secret relationship while Iona was in college. After Lewis broke her heart, Iona avoided extended stays at home for six years. But Iona is back home to stay and she has to deal with Lewis and their past. This is dual POV with fun banter and emotional confessions. It can be read as a standalone, but I recommend reading The Highland Kiss and The Highland Fling first.
Lewis and Iona were childhood friends and in a secret relationship while Iona was in college. After Lewis broke her heart, Iona avoided extended stays at home for six years. But Iona is back home to stay and she has to deal with Lewis and their past. This is dual POV with fun banter and emotional confessions. It can be read as a standalone, but I recommend reading The Highland Kiss and The Highland Fling first.
August 2, 2024
Another Belter
Once again Amy McGavin has given us an epic love story filled with clever banter, cheeky humour, and hot, hot sex! I can’t wait until the next book comes out! I hope it’s about Jamie, the wee scunner!
Once again Amy McGavin has given us an epic love story filled with clever banter, cheeky humour, and hot, hot sex! I can’t wait until the next book comes out! I hope it’s about Jamie, the wee scunner!
August 13, 2024
Really enjoyed this book and gave a reluctant 4 stars as Iona became quite annoying and selfish. I really liked her in the beginning and felt sorry for her after what Lewis did but when we found out why he did it then I had a lot more sympathy for him. She took it a little too far but all in all I really enjoyed the book.
I received a copy from Booksirens and leave my review voluntarily
I received a copy from Booksirens and leave my review voluntarily
September 7, 2024
I'm a sucker for a good Scottish romance. This one was well written and fun to read. I love the childhood friends to enemies to lovers trope and this one was fantastic. Spicy, funny and a bit sad in spots. It had the perfect balance of a great love story and hea we wanted.
Read
July 30, 2024Another great book by Amy McGavin, have read all three books in this series and they do not disappoint, can't wait to find out what happens next
August 6, 2024
Love me a best friend love story!
August 11, 2024
lucky
This is the first book I´ve read from this author but it surely won´t be the last, I just loved the characters and their interaction, it made me laugh, it brought tears to my eyes, it wanted me to move to Bannock…
This is the first book I´ve read from this author but it surely won´t be the last, I just loved the characters and their interaction, it made me laugh, it brought tears to my eyes, it wanted me to move to Bannock…
August 12, 2024
An endearing story, continuing at the Bannock hotel, focusing on Lewis and his long lost. Little spice, lots of story, I enjoyed Iona's love of books, and her career choice. The big climactic moment wasn't super shocking by all means. Very readable. Great beach read.
March 17, 2025
I love Amy McGavin’s stories! This is the 3rd book in The True Scotsman series, Lewis and Iona’s story. Theirs is a friends to lovers story, with some angst thrown in. I love the playfulness of their relationship, and their friendship as well as passion. And the Highland town of Bannock is a place I could see myself living in - a little piece of heaven
April 5, 2025
BEST FRIENDS TO LOVERS
January 21, 2025
For the third book, we finally get to find out what happened between Iona and Lewis. I liked the continuity of the stories with the previous books. You should read them in order.
Lewis and Iona were best friends growing up and always could tell each other everything. When they got to their teenage and college age years, their relationship evolved into something more. They managed to keep it a secret from their families. Then Lewis went and broke Iona's heart. Now, 6 years later, Iona has moved back to Bannock with her boyfriend. Lewis wants to find the friendship they used to have even if they can never be more. On an outing with her boyfriend, Iona has an epiphany and realizes she needs to live the life she wants and Richard isn't the guy for her. She decides to give Lewis a chance to be friends again and maybe even more. The book goes back and forth between present day and their past so you do throughout the book learn about what happened all those years ago.
Lewis and Iona were best friends growing up and always could tell each other everything. When they got to their teenage and college age years, their relationship evolved into something more. They managed to keep it a secret from their families. Then Lewis went and broke Iona's heart. Now, 6 years later, Iona has moved back to Bannock with her boyfriend. Lewis wants to find the friendship they used to have even if they can never be more. On an outing with her boyfriend, Iona has an epiphany and realizes she needs to live the life she wants and Richard isn't the guy for her. She decides to give Lewis a chance to be friends again and maybe even more. The book goes back and forth between present day and their past so you do throughout the book learn about what happened all those years ago.
June 2, 2025
Cute!
Mistakes happen, and what does everyone always say that “assume” means? This was a really cute storyline. I love how it all came together.
Mistakes happen, and what does everyone always say that “assume” means? This was a really cute storyline. I love how it all came together.
March 30, 2025
I love how she punishes him by being the ultimate tease. Perfection.
October 18, 2024
Iona Stewart and Lewis McIntyre were childhood friends who had a falling out six years ago. After being away for the past six years from the small town she grew up in, Iona returns to join the local veterinary practice. She and her partner move in with her mother while they look for a place of their own.
Lewis knows he royally screwed up six years ago. Now that Iona is back in town, he wants to make amends and renew their friendship. Can Iona forgive him for what he did or will their friendship be ruined forever?
****Spoilers Ahead***
It needs to be said that at the start of the book, Iona is in a serious romantic relationship. This isn’t mentioned in the blurb, and had it been I wouldn’t have picked it up. On top of that their falling out was because Lewis breaks up with her and immediately tries to sleep with someone else and Iona catches them. They don’t actually do anything sexual before she arrives, but for me I couldn’t root for him after that. I understand that his parents had just been killed, but I couldn’t excuse that behavior. Honestly, if this had not been an ARC I would’ve DNF’ed. Even after Iona learned the truth about that day, I felt she forgave him too quickly. There’s no groveling on Lewis’s part. Perhaps there could’ve been more if she hadn’t been in a serious relationship for almost half the novel. Things just went back to their usual banter and picked up as if nothing had happened.
I’m sure there are those that can excuse his behavior since he didn’t technically do anything sexual, and he had broken up with her (VIA TEXT), but that’s a hard no for me because the intent was there.
I don’t mind second chance stories especially if the characters were young when they were first together and broke up because of something like going away to college or maybe pushing another character away due to grief. There are so many reasons the authors could’ve chosen that didn’t require what in my opinion is the ultimate betrayal. But YMMV.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Lewis knows he royally screwed up six years ago. Now that Iona is back in town, he wants to make amends and renew their friendship. Can Iona forgive him for what he did or will their friendship be ruined forever?
****Spoilers Ahead***
It needs to be said that at the start of the book, Iona is in a serious romantic relationship. This isn’t mentioned in the blurb, and had it been I wouldn’t have picked it up. On top of that their falling out was because Lewis breaks up with her and immediately tries to sleep with someone else and Iona catches them. They don’t actually do anything sexual before she arrives, but for me I couldn’t root for him after that. I understand that his parents had just been killed, but I couldn’t excuse that behavior. Honestly, if this had not been an ARC I would’ve DNF’ed. Even after Iona learned the truth about that day, I felt she forgave him too quickly. There’s no groveling on Lewis’s part. Perhaps there could’ve been more if she hadn’t been in a serious relationship for almost half the novel. Things just went back to their usual banter and picked up as if nothing had happened.
I’m sure there are those that can excuse his behavior since he didn’t technically do anything sexual, and he had broken up with her (VIA TEXT), but that’s a hard no for me because the intent was there.
I don’t mind second chance stories especially if the characters were young when they were first together and broke up because of something like going away to college or maybe pushing another character away due to grief. There are so many reasons the authors could’ve chosen that didn’t require what in my opinion is the ultimate betrayal. But YMMV.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews