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True Scotsman #4
The Highland Game
I'm the girl with the bold blue hair and the big personality who can chat to anyone.
But the one person frustratingly out of reach? Jamie McIntyre—sharp-tongued, aloof, and unfairly handsome.
We unwittingly cross paths in the gaming world of Highland Legacy. For months we battle side by side, slaying monsters and saving villages, until by chance I discover his true identity.
Right when I'm about to tell Jamie I'm SassyLassie, the fire mage he's been adventuring with, he reveals he's opening a beer garden, one that could spell disaster for my family's pub. Instead of coming clean, I decide to use my avatar to gain intel.
It's not fair play, but then again, Jamie's got a few tricks up his sleeve too, always managing to stay one move ahead in this business battle.
As the stakes in our rivalry climb higher, so does the magnetic pull between us, leading to fiery confrontations, revelations, and heated moments that leave us both reeling.
But letting our guards down by falling for one another? That might be the riskiest move of all.
---
The Highland Game is the fourth book in the True Scotsman series of interconnected standalones.
Flirty banter meets Highland heart in this small-town romcom full of mischief, sizzling connection, and just the right amount of kilts. ❤️
But the one person frustratingly out of reach? Jamie McIntyre—sharp-tongued, aloof, and unfairly handsome.
We unwittingly cross paths in the gaming world of Highland Legacy. For months we battle side by side, slaying monsters and saving villages, until by chance I discover his true identity.
Right when I'm about to tell Jamie I'm SassyLassie, the fire mage he's been adventuring with, he reveals he's opening a beer garden, one that could spell disaster for my family's pub. Instead of coming clean, I decide to use my avatar to gain intel.
It's not fair play, but then again, Jamie's got a few tricks up his sleeve too, always managing to stay one move ahead in this business battle.
As the stakes in our rivalry climb higher, so does the magnetic pull between us, leading to fiery confrontations, revelations, and heated moments that leave us both reeling.
But letting our guards down by falling for one another? That might be the riskiest move of all.
---
The Highland Game is the fourth book in the True Scotsman series of interconnected standalones.
Flirty banter meets Highland heart in this small-town romcom full of mischief, sizzling connection, and just the right amount of kilts. ❤️
- GenresRomanceEnemies To Lovers
380 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 14, 2025
178 people are currently reading
151 people want to read
About the author
Amy McGavin
13 books57 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 40 reviews
January 10, 2025
4.5 stars 🙌🏻
So grateful to receive an ARC copy and I have to say, I think it may have been The Highland Crush as my favourite in the series 😍 I did stay up til almost midnight finishing it 😂
The enemies to lovers in this book was *chefs kiss*
As someone who's read the whole series, I'm really glad to see Jamie both get his happy ending, and overcome his injury (in a way?) like that really warmed my heart 🥹
Chapter 28 with the bench and talking to his parents had me sobbing my heart out
THE HIGHLAND BAD BOY?! Sign me right up I did not see that one coming at all 🙌🏻🙌🏻🙌🏻🙌🏻
So grateful to receive an ARC copy and I have to say, I think it may have been The Highland Crush as my favourite in the series 😍 I did stay up til almost midnight finishing it 😂
The enemies to lovers in this book was *chefs kiss*
As someone who's read the whole series, I'm really glad to see Jamie both get his happy ending, and overcome his injury (in a way?) like that really warmed my heart 🥹
Chapter 28 with the bench and talking to his parents had me sobbing my heart out
THE HIGHLAND BAD BOY?! Sign me right up I did not see that one coming at all 🙌🏻🙌🏻🙌🏻🙌🏻
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 13, 2025
A solid 4.5 ⭐️!
The story picks up with the youngest McIntyre son, Jamie. We’ve met him over the last couple of books and he sharp-witted with an uncanny ability to also be sharp-tongued. He’s a gamer and has gotten incredibly good at avoiding any real work with the family hotel and pub over the last several years!
When his family decides that he needs to start contributing, he rises to the occasion but not without his own SassieLassie trying to get in his way!
The chemistry between Jamie and Maisie is downright explosive! The spice is steamy but not over the top and the banter is absolutely incredible! You can’t go wrong reading this as the 4th book in the series (which I highly recommend) or as a standalone.
The story picks up with the youngest McIntyre son, Jamie. We’ve met him over the last couple of books and he sharp-witted with an uncanny ability to also be sharp-tongued. He’s a gamer and has gotten incredibly good at avoiding any real work with the family hotel and pub over the last several years!
When his family decides that he needs to start contributing, he rises to the occasion but not without his own SassieLassie trying to get in his way!
The chemistry between Jamie and Maisie is downright explosive! The spice is steamy but not over the top and the banter is absolutely incredible! You can’t go wrong reading this as the 4th book in the series (which I highly recommend) or as a standalone.
February 1, 2025
**The Highland Game (True Scotsman #4)
by Amy McGavin**
Maisie is known for her bold hair and vibrant personality. She can strike up a conversation with anyone in town or at the Phansent, Bannock's local pub owned by her father. Her life revolves around the pub where she lives and works alongside her father.
Jamie McIntyre, the youngest brother in the McIntyre family, is still haunted by the tragedy that took both his parents' lives and shattered the future he had envisioned for himself. Deeply affected, he has turned to gaming as an escape, using humour and teasing to avoid confronting his responsibilities at the family hotel and small bar called the Snug. However, he soon learns that he must either improve the Snug's business or risk losing it altogether.
Unbeknownst to each other, Maisie and Jamie have been playing "Highland Legacy" for months, battling side by side, slaying monsters, saving kingdoms, and chatting along the way. By chance, Maisie discovers that the courageous and flirtatious warrior, LochNLoad, is actually Jamie.
When Maisie decides to reveal her identity as SassieLassie, Jamie shares his plans to open a beer garden, which could spell disaster for her family's pub. Instead of coming clean, Maisie decides to take action to thwart Jamie's plans for his new venture.
The chemistry between Jamie and Maisie is electric, and their playful rivalry creates some fantastic banter. This is Book 4 in the True Scotsman series, and I can't wait for the next instalment! This talented husband and wife writing duo has crafted an incredibly entertaining book that immerses readers in a rich tapestry of emotions and depth. Their storytelling weaves together engaging characters and captivating plots, drawing us into a world where every page resonates with feeling and insight.
by Amy McGavin**
Maisie is known for her bold hair and vibrant personality. She can strike up a conversation with anyone in town or at the Phansent, Bannock's local pub owned by her father. Her life revolves around the pub where she lives and works alongside her father.
Jamie McIntyre, the youngest brother in the McIntyre family, is still haunted by the tragedy that took both his parents' lives and shattered the future he had envisioned for himself. Deeply affected, he has turned to gaming as an escape, using humour and teasing to avoid confronting his responsibilities at the family hotel and small bar called the Snug. However, he soon learns that he must either improve the Snug's business or risk losing it altogether.
Unbeknownst to each other, Maisie and Jamie have been playing "Highland Legacy" for months, battling side by side, slaying monsters, saving kingdoms, and chatting along the way. By chance, Maisie discovers that the courageous and flirtatious warrior, LochNLoad, is actually Jamie.
When Maisie decides to reveal her identity as SassieLassie, Jamie shares his plans to open a beer garden, which could spell disaster for her family's pub. Instead of coming clean, Maisie decides to take action to thwart Jamie's plans for his new venture.
The chemistry between Jamie and Maisie is electric, and their playful rivalry creates some fantastic banter. This is Book 4 in the True Scotsman series, and I can't wait for the next instalment! This talented husband and wife writing duo has crafted an incredibly entertaining book that immerses readers in a rich tapestry of emotions and depth. Their storytelling weaves together engaging characters and captivating plots, drawing us into a world where every page resonates with feeling and insight.
January 11, 2025
I loved this sweet and spicy enemies to lovers romance 😍
Book 4 in the True Scotsman series did not disappoint. Jamie has been a favourite of mine throughout this series, the truly lovable rogue always ready with a joke and teasing all the characters. It was so beautiful to see his relationship with Maisie blossom. Their banter, angst, and sass were fantastic.
Chapter 28 killed me 😭 I cried so hard. It was such a shift in Jamie and so beautiful to witness.
I loved the little updates on our previous characters, too.
Roll on The Highland Bad Boy - time for Robbie to get his happy ever after, too 🥰
Book 4 in the True Scotsman series did not disappoint. Jamie has been a favourite of mine throughout this series, the truly lovable rogue always ready with a joke and teasing all the characters. It was so beautiful to see his relationship with Maisie blossom. Their banter, angst, and sass were fantastic.
Chapter 28 killed me 😭 I cried so hard. It was such a shift in Jamie and so beautiful to witness.
I loved the little updates on our previous characters, too.
Roll on The Highland Bad Boy - time for Robbie to get his happy ever after, too 🥰
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 5, 2025
4.5 ⭐️
It was sooo lovely to get to know Jamie on a personal level. Chapter 28 gave me tears in my eyes 🥺 I love the ending in the epilogue where it leaves On a slight cliffhanger ready for the next book (which I’m eagerly waiting for!!) the fantasy side isn’t for me hence why the half a star BUT it was nice to see both characters come together and finally pushed aside the rivalry between both businesses!!
It was sooo lovely to get to know Jamie on a personal level. Chapter 28 gave me tears in my eyes 🥺 I love the ending in the epilogue where it leaves On a slight cliffhanger ready for the next book (which I’m eagerly waiting for!!) the fantasy side isn’t for me hence why the half a star BUT it was nice to see both characters come together and finally pushed aside the rivalry between both businesses!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 10, 2025
The True Scotsman Series is based mostly on The McIntyre family, who lives in a small town in Scotland. Each book tells the story of the 4 siblings, Ally, Lewis, Jamie, and Cat McIntyre, and Ally´s best friend, Aidan. They all experienced tragedy at a young age, their stories narrate their present and their own struggles to find their HEA. All the books can be read as standalones, however, when the characters in a story are so intertwined with one another, I find it better to read the books in order.
The highland games book is the story of Jamie McIntyre, who is the youngest of the bothers and the only one who also suffered physical consequences beside the emotional impact of the tragedy they all faced in their past. Jamie loves to make pranks and jokes that most people don’t appreciate and that make them either love or hate him, not middle area. Fortunately, he finds an amazing and unknown to him, for a while, friend in the girl next-door rival business. Maisie finds, by chance, that her online gaming friend is no other than her next-door neighbor and the most annoying person in town, she wants to come clean and tell him right away but his obnoxious personality and his new ideas of a business venture delay the confession.
Honestly this was my least favorite character of all while reading the first 3 books. At the end, I learned to understand the character and appreciate his sense of humor which at the beginning, I found immature, silly and sometimes cruel. I know this is not a historical fiction book but I would have love to find closer references to real places in Scotland, especially since the authors are Scottish. More mentioning of Scotland culture details would have been appreciated.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The highland games book is the story of Jamie McIntyre, who is the youngest of the bothers and the only one who also suffered physical consequences beside the emotional impact of the tragedy they all faced in their past. Jamie loves to make pranks and jokes that most people don’t appreciate and that make them either love or hate him, not middle area. Fortunately, he finds an amazing and unknown to him, for a while, friend in the girl next-door rival business. Maisie finds, by chance, that her online gaming friend is no other than her next-door neighbor and the most annoying person in town, she wants to come clean and tell him right away but his obnoxious personality and his new ideas of a business venture delay the confession.
Honestly this was my least favorite character of all while reading the first 3 books. At the end, I learned to understand the character and appreciate his sense of humor which at the beginning, I found immature, silly and sometimes cruel. I know this is not a historical fiction book but I would have love to find closer references to real places in Scotland, especially since the authors are Scottish. More mentioning of Scotland culture details would have been appreciated.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 13, 2025
What a pair! Great banter between these two rivals
Such an amazing read that I absolutely adored.
From the very beginning I was hooked and fell in love with Jamie’s character.
A man still haunted and hurting from the tragedy that befell him years ago.
Sheltering himself away playing online games and being a jokester is what Jamie’s life has become.
However becoming friends with a gamer girl online he finds that he can open up to her and be more himself.
Little does he know the girl he has the most amazing time chatting and playing quests with is Maisie from down the road.
Maisie and Jamie have grown up together in their small town and when Maisie realises that Jamie is her online partner that is when the fun begins.
They find themselves being rivals in their businesses and with that comes plenty of anger, bickering and laugh out loud moments in this story, along with some steamy moments between the two and a beautifully touching scene on a special park bench.
There are also times when I’d have liked to have a few words with Maisie at some of the things she said and did.
But then again, it sure did add to the angst in the storyline.
Jamie and Maisie’s story “had all the feels” and was a pleasure to read.
A fantastic story and series.
Can’t wait as it’s Cat’s turn next.
Such an amazing read that I absolutely adored.
From the very beginning I was hooked and fell in love with Jamie’s character.
A man still haunted and hurting from the tragedy that befell him years ago.
Sheltering himself away playing online games and being a jokester is what Jamie’s life has become.
However becoming friends with a gamer girl online he finds that he can open up to her and be more himself.
Little does he know the girl he has the most amazing time chatting and playing quests with is Maisie from down the road.
Maisie and Jamie have grown up together in their small town and when Maisie realises that Jamie is her online partner that is when the fun begins.
They find themselves being rivals in their businesses and with that comes plenty of anger, bickering and laugh out loud moments in this story, along with some steamy moments between the two and a beautifully touching scene on a special park bench.
There are also times when I’d have liked to have a few words with Maisie at some of the things she said and did.
But then again, it sure did add to the angst in the storyline.
Jamie and Maisie’s story “had all the feels” and was a pleasure to read.
A fantastic story and series.
Can’t wait as it’s Cat’s turn next.
February 14, 2025
I found this book to be truly enjoyable. The story has everything we want in a small town with a strong sense of community. Here’s the thing with this author duo, this series is really addictive! Funny situations, sizzling chemistry, intrigue and entertaining drama, addictive banter, creative situations, and great HEAs all around! Although Maisie and Jamie have a lot to work out before that actually happens. Their chemistry and steamy scenes sizzled right off the pages, and I really appreciated Maisie's ability to give as good as she gets! The text was so engaging and well-written that I finished reading it much more quickly than expected.
The town’s charm is instantly captivating; its familiar inhabitants make you feel welcome and at home. The outpouring of support and genuine friendship for this couple was enjoyable. The intricacies of how their relationship will work, without damage to either family, is quite addictive, and Jamie's affable personality (even after his injury) is easy to attach to, and love. Oh, and chapter 28!? So emotional. These stories are a must read; I am enjoying my time in the Highlands. :)
I appreciate receiving this ARC (thank you), and I happily leave my review. I look forward to the next story.
The town’s charm is instantly captivating; its familiar inhabitants make you feel welcome and at home. The outpouring of support and genuine friendship for this couple was enjoyable. The intricacies of how their relationship will work, without damage to either family, is quite addictive, and Jamie's affable personality (even after his injury) is easy to attach to, and love. Oh, and chapter 28!? So emotional. These stories are a must read; I am enjoying my time in the Highlands. :)
I appreciate receiving this ARC (thank you), and I happily leave my review. I look forward to the next story.
January 27, 2025
In the 4th book of the series (read them in order or you will miss a lot of things) we get Jamie's story. We finally find out a little more what happened relating to the car crash that killed Jamie's parents and injured him. Jamie has spent the years since the accident just surviving. He uses sarcasm to deal with everything and hides away in an online game. While gaming, he meets a fellow gamer who he develops a friendship with. It turns out the person he has friended in the game is Maisie from down the road. Maisie and her father run the Pheasant bar. When Lewis tells Jamie that they are going to discontinue the snug since it isn't making any money, Jamie asks for a week to develop a plan to keep it. Jamie envisions a family friendly beer garden. When Maisie finds out, she is out to sabotage Jamie's plans to save the Pheasant. When she accidentally learns through Iona that her gaming partner is Jamie, she is stuck between a rock and a hard place. Will Maisie and Jamie be able to get over their business rivalry long enough to acknowledge their feelings for each other?
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February 18, 2025This book is a whole Scottish roller coaster! The book begins with the main characters in a fantasy setting and I thought I picked out the wrong book. However, The Highland Game is a story integrating the gaming world and the real world with a plethora of kismet intertwined. Maisie and Jamie are a seemingly horribly matched pair in real life. In fact, I was worried throughout the beginning of the book that Jamie could not be redeemed. However, the author does the miraculous and brings the past of the characters to light, making the senseless make a little more sense. When you get to the point in the story where you find Jamie irredeemable, keep reading! The story was overall well written with lots of ups and downs. It has medium spiciness and lots of hilarious mishaps. I am excited to find out the stories behind the other characters introduced in the book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 11, 2025
The opening of this book had me hooked, I love a good recapping of a D&D like game I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. and from there it continues to get even better, the tensions between Maise and Jamie, couldn't get enough of it, whe. It all come to a head and the aftermath my heart broke a little but it was healed by the time I had finished the entirety of the Book, but then afterwards even knowing there was happy endings for the others,I binge read the entire series and can't wait till April 15th when the last book comes out.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 12, 2025
So...the true Scotsman series is my favourite Scottish book series. Every book I have absolutely loved the characters and the twists and turns of their lives and stories. I can't really choose a favourite as they are all fab but my heart goes out to Jamie in this one. His past is keeping him from really living. Living a half life until Maisie, the awesome live wire that she is, brings his spark out again. Love it ❤️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 14, 2025
Aww what a story! Emotional rollercoaster that I didn't want to end! As Jamie and Maisie get to know each other in real life after Maisie realises they have been playing together online for a while.
Truths come to light and the fiesty pair can't help but wind each other up and get under each others skin mostly due to business rivalry. I can't wait to read Cat's story!
Truths come to light and the fiesty pair can't help but wind each other up and get under each others skin mostly due to business rivalry. I can't wait to read Cat's story!
January 19, 2025
This is the 4th book in the True Scotsman series, and I had the honor and privilege to read this as an arc. I have loved each of the books, but this one was just that step above. Jamie & Maisie are gamers who have been playing together online for some time, have developed a great friendship, and are oblivious to the fact that they live in the same small Scottish town and know each other IRL. When they become business rivals, so begins a You’ve-Got-Mail-vibes, frenemies to lovers romance with sensational & unforgettable banter! 🔥 As I’m not a gamer, I may have phoned in some help from mr. booksadoodle to decipher gaming lingo. That said, you absolutely do not need to be a gamer to adore this next book in the series! I feel like Amy & Gavin’s writing just keeps getting better, so I am anxiously awaiting the next installment for Cat & Robbie’s story! Highly recommend this series, especially for fans of small town romance with a bit of 🌶️. Thank you so much to Amy & Gavin for the e-arc! I received an advance review copy for free and I’m leaving my honest review voluntarily.
February 12, 2025
Such a fun, sweet and spicy Romcom. It makes you long for the Scottish Highlands. I had to grin and giggle. Jamie is such a funny and witty guy.
Maisie is always quick with the banter and would do anything for her dad and pub.
But how far will she go to safe it?
This book is part of a series but can be read as a standalone.
Don't be confused by the first chapter it is not Fantasy.
Maisie is always quick with the banter and would do anything for her dad and pub.
But how far will she go to safe it?
This book is part of a series but can be read as a standalone.
Don't be confused by the first chapter it is not Fantasy.
February 23, 2025
This is a different book then I am used to. Jamie and Maise are friends in the gaming world and then Maise figures out who her gaming partner is. the flipping back and forth in this book was very well written and I could follow it with ease. I liked this story. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 26, 2025
Delighted to return to Bannock for Maisie and Jamie's story. Another brilliant book from husband and wife duo Amy and Gavin.
The whole series are must reads.
Can't wait for the next one!
The whole series are must reads.
Can't wait for the next one!
February 3, 2025
Entertaining!
4.5⭐️ Jamie and Maisie don’t get along in real life, but unknowingly are great friends through online gaming. Then Maisie figures out who Jamie is online. There’s more trouble when Jamie starts a business that competes with Maisie’s family’s pub. Both characters were witty and likable which made this story very enjoyable.
4.5⭐️ Jamie and Maisie don’t get along in real life, but unknowingly are great friends through online gaming. Then Maisie figures out who Jamie is online. There’s more trouble when Jamie starts a business that competes with Maisie’s family’s pub. Both characters were witty and likable which made this story very enjoyable.
February 12, 2025
A good story, I loved all the banter. The interactions between main characters are awesome. It’s a bit of a slow build from online friends.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 22, 2025
Fini en avril 2025. Trop cute j’ai adoré le push & pull
June 1, 2025
Very fun story of finding a connection where you least expect it. Great nerdy banter and Scottish slang. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 30, 2025
Great Read!
I really enjoyed watching Jamie and Maisie find their HEA. I'm looking forward to book 5 to see who Cat winds up with. I will definitely recommend this book to everyone.
I really enjoyed watching Jamie and Maisie find their HEA. I'm looking forward to book 5 to see who Cat winds up with. I will definitely recommend this book to everyone.
May 15, 2025
Loved this dual pov story of Jamie and Maisie. When you play the game doesn't your heart get in the way. Find out when you read this fantastic book. Loved the whole series so far, awaiting the next one now.
January 12, 2025
Maybe I have a thing for cheeky chappie Scotsmen with a wee bit of trauma and a sweet-as-strawberry-ice-cream layer under the surface, or maybe I’m a sucker for a guy called Jamie, or possibly this is the best book in the True Scotsman series so far, but I tore through this one in a day, living for the emotional highs and lows and all the intoxicatingly hot bedroom moments.
The secret gamer identity trope had me gripped early doors. I was totally invested in finding out what would happen when identities were revealed. And this was teased perfectly, with a gradual peeling back of realisation from both characters. As well as adding a page-turning element, the gaming was skilfully used to develop and mature Jamie’s character from someone who sits around glued to a laptop to a man whose world has become a little bigger.
There are some satisfyingly steamy moments where the tension between Jamie and Maisie finally cracks and they stop pretending that they are anything but nuts about one another. That these were often after an argument made them even better. One of my favourite parts, which was also very funny, was when they are kidding themselves they still hate one another after having kissed their faces off in the bar.
“We can’t argue here,” he mutters hoarsely. His tone is rough edged – almost feral, as though barely restraining himself from diving back in for more.”
“Well, where do you suggest we argue then?” I’m practically panting.
“My room.” His voice drops lower, darker. “I can really give you a piece of my mind up there.”
So, yes… Jamie. He is my star feature from The Highland Game. As you witness the gallus front fall away, and the sweet and somewhat broken lad underneath emerge… well, how could you not fall for him? His humour, his bravado, his emotional struggle after his parents’ deaths, how goofily sweet he is to Maisie when she is sick, his bedroom prowess, and the life changing effects of his physical injury all combine to make him completely endearing. Yes, he could be annoying at times, but this made him all the more real.
All in all, I recommend picking up The Highland Game for a wee bit of small town Scottish escapism and a fine helping of angst and heat. At times, you may want to bang Jamie and Maisie’s heads together and tell them to just… well, bang, but you will also fall in love with them and wish so hard for their adorable HEA.
Thank you to Amy and Gavin for the advance review copy. These views are entirely my own.
The secret gamer identity trope had me gripped early doors. I was totally invested in finding out what would happen when identities were revealed. And this was teased perfectly, with a gradual peeling back of realisation from both characters. As well as adding a page-turning element, the gaming was skilfully used to develop and mature Jamie’s character from someone who sits around glued to a laptop to a man whose world has become a little bigger.
There are some satisfyingly steamy moments where the tension between Jamie and Maisie finally cracks and they stop pretending that they are anything but nuts about one another. That these were often after an argument made them even better. One of my favourite parts, which was also very funny, was when they are kidding themselves they still hate one another after having kissed their faces off in the bar.
“We can’t argue here,” he mutters hoarsely. His tone is rough edged – almost feral, as though barely restraining himself from diving back in for more.”
“Well, where do you suggest we argue then?” I’m practically panting.
“My room.” His voice drops lower, darker. “I can really give you a piece of my mind up there.”
So, yes… Jamie. He is my star feature from The Highland Game. As you witness the gallus front fall away, and the sweet and somewhat broken lad underneath emerge… well, how could you not fall for him? His humour, his bravado, his emotional struggle after his parents’ deaths, how goofily sweet he is to Maisie when she is sick, his bedroom prowess, and the life changing effects of his physical injury all combine to make him completely endearing. Yes, he could be annoying at times, but this made him all the more real.
All in all, I recommend picking up The Highland Game for a wee bit of small town Scottish escapism and a fine helping of angst and heat. At times, you may want to bang Jamie and Maisie’s heads together and tell them to just… well, bang, but you will also fall in love with them and wish so hard for their adorable HEA.
Thank you to Amy and Gavin for the advance review copy. These views are entirely my own.
February 2, 2025
Witty Banter, Hidden Gamer Identities Shield IRL Rivals with Major Heat- So Much Fun!
This book was so much fun and had so many plot twists and turns it that was hard to put down, and I read it in one day. I liked that it was told via dual POV so the reader understands both Jaime and Maisie's underlying motivation for commercial success, but also their mutual attraction and the clues to their hidden identities. It is part of a series and it was wonderful to catch up with the other characters and family members from previous books but it also works as a standalone. The only reason it is 4 instead of 5 stars for me is that I don't game and it did at times get bogged down in details of their "gaming quests". I am looking forward to reading Cat and Robbie's story coming up next - Enjoy!
I was sent an ARC by the authors and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
This book was so much fun and had so many plot twists and turns it that was hard to put down, and I read it in one day. I liked that it was told via dual POV so the reader understands both Jaime and Maisie's underlying motivation for commercial success, but also their mutual attraction and the clues to their hidden identities. It is part of a series and it was wonderful to catch up with the other characters and family members from previous books but it also works as a standalone. The only reason it is 4 instead of 5 stars for me is that I don't game and it did at times get bogged down in details of their "gaming quests". I am looking forward to reading Cat and Robbie's story coming up next - Enjoy!
I was sent an ARC by the authors and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
January 12, 2026
Of the four books I’ve read in this series so far, this one was the hardest to get into. I’m not a gamer, and that may have had something to do with it.
I enjoyed the setting and the concept of The Highland Games—the atmosphere, the stakes, and the promise of character growth were all there. However, the MFC’s development felt frustratingly slow. Her realizations and emotional growth arrived a day late and a dollar short, often only after key moments had already passed. Instead of driving the story forward, her arc lagged behind it, which dulled the emotional impact and made it harder to fully invest in her journey. While the story had strong moments and plenty of charm, the pacing of her development kept this from being a standout read for me.
I enjoyed the setting and the concept of The Highland Games—the atmosphere, the stakes, and the promise of character growth were all there. However, the MFC’s development felt frustratingly slow. Her realizations and emotional growth arrived a day late and a dollar short, often only after key moments had already passed. Instead of driving the story forward, her arc lagged behind it, which dulled the emotional impact and made it harder to fully invest in her journey. While the story had strong moments and plenty of charm, the pacing of her development kept this from being a standout read for me.
January 26, 2025
Jamie and Maisie's story is a real treat. Jamie has been the irritating, somewhat idle McIntyre in the previous stories, but in this one we find out why, making him wonderfully endearing. Rivals in business in their small town, Jamie and Maisie are gaming buddies online but neither of them know it. However, they eventually discover they have been chatting and gaming together for months. But as they both compete for business, their mutual chemistry ignites spectacularly. Eventually, communication between both businesses lead to a way for Maisie and Jamie to have a future together. Some steam, emotional and laugh out loud moments make this a must read.
February 6, 2025
The Highland Game is the fourth book in the True Scotsman series which follows Maisie and Jaime two gamers as well as enemies that grew up in the same small town but who's family business's also have them competing for business. Maisie is strong, independent, sassy, and has no problem standing up for herself especially when it comes to her father, the family business and online gaming. Jaime is silly, good looking, and the youngest of his brothers but with past trauma he has not been pulling his weight in the family business which has him needing to make some changes before his brother's step in, but those changes will definitely affect Maisie especially since they are online gaming teammates but have yet to realize it. This story is sweet, funny, and with the attraction Maisie and Jaime have for each other that has them fighting so hard to avoid we get tons of banter, tension, heat and emotion making this a book you should definitely read.
March 1, 2025
This is book 4 in McGavin's True Scotsman series that can be read as a standalone. A delightfully well written romance with main characters Maisie and Jamie. I love this small town Scottish romance read. The chemistry between these two is fantastic and I love the banter and humor between them. Overall is book is captivating from start to finish. A smooth flowing storyline and the best balance of romance and humor. I loved every minute of it and can't wait for more!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 10, 2025
make it work
How come you can be perfect for each other in the gaming world and not try to make it work in real life? Of course it takes courage to take the first step, reaveal your secret identity, look beyond family rivalries but where there is a will, there is a way and isn´t love and happiness always worth it?
How come you can be perfect for each other in the gaming world and not try to make it work in real life? Of course it takes courage to take the first step, reaveal your secret identity, look beyond family rivalries but where there is a will, there is a way and isn´t love and happiness always worth it?
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