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Match Play: A Steamy Grumpy Sunshine Sports Rom-Com set in Scotland
Beauty and the Beast set in the Scottish Highlands with a golf course thrown in…
This steamy, grumpy-sunshine romantic comedy will have you laughing, blushing, and planning your next trip to Scotland.
/match play/ noun
: In golf, a competition between two players where they attempt to win each hole. The winner is the player with the most points at the end of the round.
Ex-Royal Marine and former aid worker Campbell McLeod’s ancestral home in the Scottish Highlands has always been his place of refuge. A place where he can hide away from the world and truly be himself. So when his brother decides to build a golf course on the family’s estate and hires a feisty professional golfer to design it, Campbell’s world is turned upside down.
Joy Blunt is a professional golfer who’s been voted the tour’s wildest player off the course for five straight years. Designing golf courses is the family business, but it’s not what Joy wants to do when she eventually hangs up her clubs. However, recovering from an injury and with time on her hands, Joy agrees to help both her father and an old university friend by designing the new golf course on the McLeod estate.
From the moment the first shots are fired (quite literally!) Campbell and Joy are locked in an intense competition, a duel for the future of the McLeod estate. But what they both need to remember is that with match play, there are different rules – especially when it comes to scoring.
Match Play is a steamy grumpy-sunshine sports rom-com set in Scotland. This is the third book in the Playing a Round Series but can be read on its own as a standalone.
This steamy, grumpy-sunshine romantic comedy will have you laughing, blushing, and planning your next trip to Scotland.
/match play/ noun
: In golf, a competition between two players where they attempt to win each hole. The winner is the player with the most points at the end of the round.
Ex-Royal Marine and former aid worker Campbell McLeod’s ancestral home in the Scottish Highlands has always been his place of refuge. A place where he can hide away from the world and truly be himself. So when his brother decides to build a golf course on the family’s estate and hires a feisty professional golfer to design it, Campbell’s world is turned upside down.
Joy Blunt is a professional golfer who’s been voted the tour’s wildest player off the course for five straight years. Designing golf courses is the family business, but it’s not what Joy wants to do when she eventually hangs up her clubs. However, recovering from an injury and with time on her hands, Joy agrees to help both her father and an old university friend by designing the new golf course on the McLeod estate.
From the moment the first shots are fired (quite literally!) Campbell and Joy are locked in an intense competition, a duel for the future of the McLeod estate. But what they both need to remember is that with match play, there are different rules – especially when it comes to scoring.
Match Play is a steamy grumpy-sunshine sports rom-com set in Scotland. This is the third book in the Playing a Round Series but can be read on its own as a standalone.
- GenresRomance
ebook
Published February 28, 2025
8 people are currently reading
44 people want to read
About the author
Veronica Peartree
5 books15 followersVeronica Peartree writes contemporary British romances and romcoms with the perfect blend of plot twists and sexy scenes. Her books feature well-developed, complex characters who often face daunting challenges. And you can guarantee a happily ever after with every read!
If you love a workplace romance, forced proximity, and plenty of steam and spice in your romances and romcoms, then you’ll love Veronica’s books.
She lives in the North East of England with her husband and four children. In between writing, Veronica spends her time doing school runs, drinking endless cups of tea, and staring out of windowpanes splattered with raindrops (it rains a lot!).
Look for Veronica’s new series of sports romcoms set in Scotland starting with MAKING THE CUT (Jun 2024), followed by SECOND SHOT (coming Sept 2024).
Veronica also writes a forbidden love workplace romance series, Professors of Castle Eden University, set in a fictional Northern English market town. Book 1, The English Professor features a repressed hero, Jack, and the quietly adventurous Leyna who works as an admin assistant in the English Department. Veronica is currently writing Book 2, The Rogue Professor, where a one-night stand turns into two strangers (Dalton and Eliana) becoming work colleagues. Their time is split between the university, the Castle Museum, and his ancestral home in the wild Northumbrian countryside.
You can also find Veronica on social media (probably in this order):
Instagram: @veronica_peartree
TikTok: @veronica_peartree
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/VeronicaPeart...
Sign up for Veronica's newsletter via her website: https://www.veronicapeartree.com/
If you love a workplace romance, forced proximity, and plenty of steam and spice in your romances and romcoms, then you’ll love Veronica’s books.
She lives in the North East of England with her husband and four children. In between writing, Veronica spends her time doing school runs, drinking endless cups of tea, and staring out of windowpanes splattered with raindrops (it rains a lot!).
Look for Veronica’s new series of sports romcoms set in Scotland starting with MAKING THE CUT (Jun 2024), followed by SECOND SHOT (coming Sept 2024).
Veronica also writes a forbidden love workplace romance series, Professors of Castle Eden University, set in a fictional Northern English market town. Book 1, The English Professor features a repressed hero, Jack, and the quietly adventurous Leyna who works as an admin assistant in the English Department. Veronica is currently writing Book 2, The Rogue Professor, where a one-night stand turns into two strangers (Dalton and Eliana) becoming work colleagues. Their time is split between the university, the Castle Museum, and his ancestral home in the wild Northumbrian countryside.
You can also find Veronica on social media (probably in this order):
Instagram: @veronica_peartree
TikTok: @veronica_peartree
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/VeronicaPeart...
Sign up for Veronica's newsletter via her website: https://www.veronicapeartree.com/
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
March 13, 2025
I liked this. The whole Beauty and the Beast meets the Highlands meets Golf thing worked so well. I enjoyed the story and how it all unfolded.
The book was written well and the story flowed clearly and concisely. There were no issues with continuity. The Scotland research was on point. I always love reading Scotland through a non Scot's eyes!
The characters were loveable. Joy and Campbell had a great chemistry and this was written excellently. Campbell was grumpy and brooding. (New book boyfriend alert!). He was a good man and so kind. Joy was literally a joy! She was fun, smart and sweet. The rest of that characters were excellent. I also loved Harris, Campbell's Scottish deerhound.
The book was written in first person in dual POV. From Joy and Campbell's perspectives. This worked very well. It allowed the reader to get in both their heads and try to understand them better.
I really recommend this if you like contemporary romances and rom-coms. Don't be put off by the golf theme. It worked very well and wasn't too heavily featured
The book was written well and the story flowed clearly and concisely. There were no issues with continuity. The Scotland research was on point. I always love reading Scotland through a non Scot's eyes!
The characters were loveable. Joy and Campbell had a great chemistry and this was written excellently. Campbell was grumpy and brooding. (New book boyfriend alert!). He was a good man and so kind. Joy was literally a joy! She was fun, smart and sweet. The rest of that characters were excellent. I also loved Harris, Campbell's Scottish deerhound.
The book was written in first person in dual POV. From Joy and Campbell's perspectives. This worked very well. It allowed the reader to get in both their heads and try to understand them better.
I really recommend this if you like contemporary romances and rom-coms. Don't be put off by the golf theme. It worked very well and wasn't too heavily featured
March 12, 2025
This book was brilliant , emotional , sweet and so funny . I laughed and swooned so much while reading it . I want this was a romcom movie.
The dynamics between Joy & Campbell from the start of the book all the way through was entertaining. Campbell was so grumpy 😂😂😂 but I loved his kind of grump, it was so easy to wind him up thou , but the things he would do in retaliation was hilarious. He is definitely one of my fave MMCs now.
He had personal trauma he was dealing with though 🥺, being ex military and having been to war. I appreciated that this was part of his story and how it was discussed in the book, as you understood him better and balanced out his character.
I absolutely loved Joy , she was chaos walking and sunshine rolled into one package. There was definitely not a single shy bone in her body , she knew what she wanted and was so confident about it and comfortable in being her unapologetic bad ass self. I like that she had some vulnerabilities too and how she navigates her way through dealing with them , considering she had a very bubbly and fun personality.
The pranks they would play on each other though .. I wanted even more.
The cast of supporting characters added so much to the story as well .. the murder mystery night , the events , the tartan 😂😂😂 everything was a delight to read. I could happily read more of this book so glad it was made into a full novel.
I can’t wait for the new series after the introduction of the MacDonald brothers 😍.. give me more .
The dynamics between Joy & Campbell from the start of the book all the way through was entertaining. Campbell was so grumpy 😂😂😂 but I loved his kind of grump, it was so easy to wind him up thou , but the things he would do in retaliation was hilarious. He is definitely one of my fave MMCs now.
He had personal trauma he was dealing with though 🥺, being ex military and having been to war. I appreciated that this was part of his story and how it was discussed in the book, as you understood him better and balanced out his character.
I absolutely loved Joy , she was chaos walking and sunshine rolled into one package. There was definitely not a single shy bone in her body , she knew what she wanted and was so confident about it and comfortable in being her unapologetic bad ass self. I like that she had some vulnerabilities too and how she navigates her way through dealing with them , considering she had a very bubbly and fun personality.
The pranks they would play on each other though .. I wanted even more.
The cast of supporting characters added so much to the story as well .. the murder mystery night , the events , the tartan 😂😂😂 everything was a delight to read. I could happily read more of this book so glad it was made into a full novel.
I can’t wait for the new series after the introduction of the MacDonald brothers 😍.. give me more .
March 5, 2025
I smashed my way through this! I thoroughly enjoyed reading it. It so unusual for me to read an actual British romance, especially a British sports romance and this has my questioning why I haven’t read more!
This has the perfect balance between humour, romance, angst, suspense and spice!
Even if you don’t like golf but you do love a romance book this is definitely one to read and I will most certainly be reading Veronica’s backlog was this was fantastic!
🌟🌟🌟🌟.5/5
🌶️🌶️.5/5
This has the perfect balance between humour, romance, angst, suspense and spice!
Even if you don’t like golf but you do love a romance book this is definitely one to read and I will most certainly be reading Veronica’s backlog was this was fantastic!
🌟🌟🌟🌟.5/5
🌶️🌶️.5/5
March 6, 2025
I really enjoyed this book. A story about a professional golfer facing some tough life challenges and a ex military dealing with his own issues. Put them together was brilliant and made for a very entertaining journey. Joy is determined to build a world class golf course on the McLoed estate. Campbell, the spare Laird, is determined to stop her. What ensues is mayhem. I couldn’t put it down. This was my introduction to this author and series. I’m now in search of the previous ones to catch up and can’t wait for future books from this author! I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 20, 2025
Grumpy sunshine trope with a witty and spirited heroine? Count me in for a one-sitting binge-read!
Joy is exactly as her name suggests - joyful, charming, and full of life. Her unfiltered personality and interactions with Campbell had me laughing out loud. Meanwhile, Campbell, who comes across as reserved, grumpy (and maybe even a little shy), is completely thrown off by her boldness. And on top of that, 10 years later your crush wants you just as badly? No wonder he’s struggling to process it. But when all that tension finally explodes? Absolutely scorching.
The writing style was fast-paced and witty, packed with all those British expressions I absolutely loved.
P.S. I think it would’ve been fun to see some flashbacks of a younger Campbell, head over heels for Joy.
Thank you, Veronica Peartree, for the ARC!
Joy is exactly as her name suggests - joyful, charming, and full of life. Her unfiltered personality and interactions with Campbell had me laughing out loud. Meanwhile, Campbell, who comes across as reserved, grumpy (and maybe even a little shy), is completely thrown off by her boldness. And on top of that, 10 years later your crush wants you just as badly? No wonder he’s struggling to process it. But when all that tension finally explodes? Absolutely scorching.
The writing style was fast-paced and witty, packed with all those British expressions I absolutely loved.
P.S. I think it would’ve been fun to see some flashbacks of a younger Campbell, head over heels for Joy.
Thank you, Veronica Peartree, for the ARC!
March 12, 2025
I had the chance to read an early ARC of *Match Play*, and let me tell you, it was a wild, hilarious, and steamy ride. *Match Play* is the kind of book that feels like a chaotic mix of golf, *will-they-won’t-they* tension, and a whole lot of "I can’t believe this is happening" moments. And honestly? It’s fantastic.
Let’s start with the main character, Joy, who’s a golfer girlie but hates being outside. Yes, you read that right. The irony is delicious, and I’m here for it. Right away, you’ll be hooked, especially when she meets Campbell—Mr. Brooding, Grumpy, and "I Don’t Care About Anything" himself. But oh boy, does the tension between them just *sizzle*. They’re like fire and ice, and honestly, I’m just here for the drama.
Their interactions are *gold*. From Campbell being completely unbothered to Joy teasing him mercilessly, you’ll find yourself laughing out loud—whether it’s over a falling-in-the-woods moment or a hilarious diary fight (which, let’s be real, I was *not* expecting to be so entertaining). The chemistry is off the charts, even when they try to fight it.
We also get a lot of glimpses into their quirky dynamics with their families. Joy’s dad? Well, let’s just say he’s complicated. And Campbell’s older brother Aaron is the total charmer who’ll have you wanting a spin-off of his own. But the best part? Watching these two, Joy and Campbell, try (and fail) to stay away from each other. It’s like watching a slow-motion car crash in the best possible way. You know it’s coming, but you just can’t look away.
The spice factor? Oh, it’s there. We’re talking secret paths, close encounters in libraries, and more tension than you can shake a golf club at. There are some seriously steamy moments, but there’s also a lot of humor and vulnerability that make this relationship *so* much more than just a romance. Joy and Campbell’s emotional rollercoaster is real, and you’ll find yourself emotionally invested—even if you're secretly rooting for them to just kiss already.
The side stories? Hilarious. The KFC chicken moment? Priceless. And the misunderstandings? Okay, I admit it, I was *this close* to throwing my book out the window, but then the hilarious resolution came in, and I was like, “I *knew* they’d pull through.”
*Match Play* is a delightful mix of romance, tension, humor, and the kind of unpredictability that keeps you flipping pages well into the night. So, if you're into charming, grumpy love interests, golf drama, and plenty of hilarious and heartwarming moments, this book is a hole-in-one.
Let’s start with the main character, Joy, who’s a golfer girlie but hates being outside. Yes, you read that right. The irony is delicious, and I’m here for it. Right away, you’ll be hooked, especially when she meets Campbell—Mr. Brooding, Grumpy, and "I Don’t Care About Anything" himself. But oh boy, does the tension between them just *sizzle*. They’re like fire and ice, and honestly, I’m just here for the drama.
Their interactions are *gold*. From Campbell being completely unbothered to Joy teasing him mercilessly, you’ll find yourself laughing out loud—whether it’s over a falling-in-the-woods moment or a hilarious diary fight (which, let’s be real, I was *not* expecting to be so entertaining). The chemistry is off the charts, even when they try to fight it.
We also get a lot of glimpses into their quirky dynamics with their families. Joy’s dad? Well, let’s just say he’s complicated. And Campbell’s older brother Aaron is the total charmer who’ll have you wanting a spin-off of his own. But the best part? Watching these two, Joy and Campbell, try (and fail) to stay away from each other. It’s like watching a slow-motion car crash in the best possible way. You know it’s coming, but you just can’t look away.
The spice factor? Oh, it’s there. We’re talking secret paths, close encounters in libraries, and more tension than you can shake a golf club at. There are some seriously steamy moments, but there’s also a lot of humor and vulnerability that make this relationship *so* much more than just a romance. Joy and Campbell’s emotional rollercoaster is real, and you’ll find yourself emotionally invested—even if you're secretly rooting for them to just kiss already.
The side stories? Hilarious. The KFC chicken moment? Priceless. And the misunderstandings? Okay, I admit it, I was *this close* to throwing my book out the window, but then the hilarious resolution came in, and I was like, “I *knew* they’d pull through.”
*Match Play* is a delightful mix of romance, tension, humor, and the kind of unpredictability that keeps you flipping pages well into the night. So, if you're into charming, grumpy love interests, golf drama, and plenty of hilarious and heartwarming moments, this book is a hole-in-one.
February 28, 2025
From the moment Campbell McLeod took out his shotgun, I was a goner. There is just something about this man that makes you want to rip his clothes off and tell him everything will be alright at the same time. Think, if Mr Darcy had joined the Royal Marines but come out even more tortured and repressed with massive muscles and a Scottish accent.
Anyway, more about Campbell later. I loved this book! Veronica Peartree has such a knack for blending genuine laugh out loud humour with pathos and sexual tension. The characters of Joy and Campbell bounce off one another with sass sparking from every word. Their chemistry is truly palpable. Joy is such a fun character who pokes the uptight bear that is Campbell in an entertaining and endearing way. Her response when Campbell tells her he doesn’t like her wearing his family’s tartan - perfection!
Yet, there are serious themes in here too. Campbell is a former Royal marine suffering from PTSD, an issue handled with care and compassion as the author skilfully uses it to forge a bond between the warring couple. And Joy has her own problems that are also sensitively presented.
The will-they-won’t-they between Joy and Campbell is delicious and the teasing between them keeps the pages turning with excellent sexy-time pay off. It is a delight to see Joy peel back Campbell’s grouchy exterior and witness him crumble for her. And she’s just as much of a puddle for him. Truly they belong together. That scene in the passageway. Oh my!!
The cast of side characters is also fab with some hilarious brotherly repartee between Campbell and Arron. And the murder mystery evening is a particularly funny scene, and one where we get to meet one of the rugged mountain men from the author’s next series. Can’t wait for them all!
So, if you like British banter, gruff Scottish ex-military men with hearts of gold and firecracker heroines that bring them to their knees, then this is the perfect read for you. Veronica Peartree is an author to watch and you should be reading her books. Like now!
Anyway, more about Campbell later. I loved this book! Veronica Peartree has such a knack for blending genuine laugh out loud humour with pathos and sexual tension. The characters of Joy and Campbell bounce off one another with sass sparking from every word. Their chemistry is truly palpable. Joy is such a fun character who pokes the uptight bear that is Campbell in an entertaining and endearing way. Her response when Campbell tells her he doesn’t like her wearing his family’s tartan - perfection!
Yet, there are serious themes in here too. Campbell is a former Royal marine suffering from PTSD, an issue handled with care and compassion as the author skilfully uses it to forge a bond between the warring couple. And Joy has her own problems that are also sensitively presented.
The will-they-won’t-they between Joy and Campbell is delicious and the teasing between them keeps the pages turning with excellent sexy-time pay off. It is a delight to see Joy peel back Campbell’s grouchy exterior and witness him crumble for her. And she’s just as much of a puddle for him. Truly they belong together. That scene in the passageway. Oh my!!
The cast of side characters is also fab with some hilarious brotherly repartee between Campbell and Arron. And the murder mystery evening is a particularly funny scene, and one where we get to meet one of the rugged mountain men from the author’s next series. Can’t wait for them all!
So, if you like British banter, gruff Scottish ex-military men with hearts of gold and firecracker heroines that bring them to their knees, then this is the perfect read for you. Veronica Peartree is an author to watch and you should be reading her books. Like now!
February 22, 2025
4.5 stars⭐
Grumpy/Sunshine
Veronica Peartree has done it again a perfect blend of romance, angst and comedy.
I was incredibly lucky to get an arc copy and I truly loved this book.
Campbell is an ex royal marine who has been medically discharged and is adjusting to life while dealing with PTSD. Veronica handles this topic so well within the book while also highlighting the topic of the lack of support our soldiers receive once out. It was really heartwarming reading his story and how Joy helps heal a part of him as they grow closer in the book.
Joy is a fun loving British girl who was an utter pleasure to read, she reminded me of some of my friends and it was so incredibly refreshing to read her character being a British girl. Joy is a professional golfer and is trying to find a passion away from golf, she is a little lost at the start of the book but again the journey she takes with Campbell is healing and both characters grow throughout the book.
Just like the rest of the series there are some absolutely hilarious moments in this book that had me really laughing, the games played between the characters had me with a constant smile on my face.
This book was such a great mixture of fun and serious. It is a slow burn romance with a little bit of spice sprinkled in and some really great side characters. As the majority of the books I read are set in the US or Canada this book was like a breath of fresh air for this British girl and all the very British sayings, foods and behaviours brought a whole other level of joy to this book for me.
This whole series is fantastic and if you love sports romances, a feisty FMC and broody MMC then this book is for you.
Grumpy/Sunshine
Veronica Peartree has done it again a perfect blend of romance, angst and comedy.
I was incredibly lucky to get an arc copy and I truly loved this book.
Campbell is an ex royal marine who has been medically discharged and is adjusting to life while dealing with PTSD. Veronica handles this topic so well within the book while also highlighting the topic of the lack of support our soldiers receive once out. It was really heartwarming reading his story and how Joy helps heal a part of him as they grow closer in the book.
Joy is a fun loving British girl who was an utter pleasure to read, she reminded me of some of my friends and it was so incredibly refreshing to read her character being a British girl. Joy is a professional golfer and is trying to find a passion away from golf, she is a little lost at the start of the book but again the journey she takes with Campbell is healing and both characters grow throughout the book.
Just like the rest of the series there are some absolutely hilarious moments in this book that had me really laughing, the games played between the characters had me with a constant smile on my face.
This book was such a great mixture of fun and serious. It is a slow burn romance with a little bit of spice sprinkled in and some really great side characters. As the majority of the books I read are set in the US or Canada this book was like a breath of fresh air for this British girl and all the very British sayings, foods and behaviours brought a whole other level of joy to this book for me.
This whole series is fantastic and if you love sports romances, a feisty FMC and broody MMC then this book is for you.
March 19, 2025
Match Play is the 3rd book in Veronica Peartree's Playing a Round Series. I absolutely loved this book as it is the first rom com that I have read with a FMC who is the athlete! Joy Blunt is a professional golfer and a member of the LPGA who faces the world with a sunny, upbeat attitude while hiding her personal worries and challenges. She is sharp, talented and driven to succeed.
Joy is taking time off the tour to oversee the design and construction of a golf course at her friend, Arron McLeod's estate in the Scottish Highlands. Unfortunately, Arron's younger brother Campbell, who is dealing with his own issues, is determined to save the estate by creating problems for the project. He is good looking, built and stubborn to a fault with a quirky sense of humor !As I read, I realized that Joy and Campbell were made for each other.
I could not put the book down! I loved both main and supporting characters. I thought Joy and Campbell were made for each other. It filled with the perfect balance of banter, humor, emotions and steam. It is well written and the story flows seamlessly. The supporting characters were an essential part of the story with the back history of friendships and family.
Now that I have read Match Play and become aware of Veronica Peartree's engaging style of writing I will be sure to read her other books in Play a Round Series!
I received an advanced reader copy and I am leaving a voluntary review based solely on my personal reading experience.
Joy is taking time off the tour to oversee the design and construction of a golf course at her friend, Arron McLeod's estate in the Scottish Highlands. Unfortunately, Arron's younger brother Campbell, who is dealing with his own issues, is determined to save the estate by creating problems for the project. He is good looking, built and stubborn to a fault with a quirky sense of humor !As I read, I realized that Joy and Campbell were made for each other.
I could not put the book down! I loved both main and supporting characters. I thought Joy and Campbell were made for each other. It filled with the perfect balance of banter, humor, emotions and steam. It is well written and the story flows seamlessly. The supporting characters were an essential part of the story with the back history of friendships and family.
Now that I have read Match Play and become aware of Veronica Peartree's engaging style of writing I will be sure to read her other books in Play a Round Series!
I received an advanced reader copy and I am leaving a voluntary review based solely on my personal reading experience.
April 24, 2025
🏴British Rom-Com🏴
🏴Scottish Former Royal-Marine MMC (31yrs old)
🏴Posh English Pro-Golfer FMC (35yrs old)
🌤️Grumpy / Sunshine
🤝Friends Younger Brother
↔️Opposites Attract
💘She Falls First But…
💙…He Falls Harder
🤭Banter, Laughs & 🌶️
🏰Scottish Highland Estate Setting
I had a blast reading this grumpy/sunshine romance. It was a well written British rom-com, full of humour, banter and with characters that are both likeable and well developed.
You really root for both MC’s, Campbell and Joy, especially when you know just how much they are burning for one another, be that from Campbell’s perspective and the years of pent-up wanting from a far but won’t allow himself to give into temptation. Or from Joy’s perspective and only just seeing Campbell in a completely new light. But boy, when Joy does start to see Campbell in this new way, she it makes her mission to push Campbell out of his brooding comfort zone and into the all systems go zone.
Reading Joy pushing Campbell’s buttons and Campbell pushing Joy’s buttons was so much fun as this was their foreplay and the lead up to the inevitably of them being up together.
While this story was low in angst there was a tiny bit in the form of Campbell dealing with PTSD from his Royal Marine days and Joy holding back on some of the things she’s dealing with but nothing is overly drawn out to spoil the fun nature of the book.
This was just the lighthearted, feel good, British story I needed to read this week and I had a great time!⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 (4.5 rounded up to 5⭐️)
🏴Scottish Former Royal-Marine MMC (31yrs old)
🏴Posh English Pro-Golfer FMC (35yrs old)
🌤️Grumpy / Sunshine
🤝Friends Younger Brother
↔️Opposites Attract
💘She Falls First But…
💙…He Falls Harder
🤭Banter, Laughs & 🌶️
🏰Scottish Highland Estate Setting
I had a blast reading this grumpy/sunshine romance. It was a well written British rom-com, full of humour, banter and with characters that are both likeable and well developed.
You really root for both MC’s, Campbell and Joy, especially when you know just how much they are burning for one another, be that from Campbell’s perspective and the years of pent-up wanting from a far but won’t allow himself to give into temptation. Or from Joy’s perspective and only just seeing Campbell in a completely new light. But boy, when Joy does start to see Campbell in this new way, she it makes her mission to push Campbell out of his brooding comfort zone and into the all systems go zone.
Reading Joy pushing Campbell’s buttons and Campbell pushing Joy’s buttons was so much fun as this was their foreplay and the lead up to the inevitably of them being up together.
While this story was low in angst there was a tiny bit in the form of Campbell dealing with PTSD from his Royal Marine days and Joy holding back on some of the things she’s dealing with but nothing is overly drawn out to spoil the fun nature of the book.
This was just the lighthearted, feel good, British story I needed to read this week and I had a great time!⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 (4.5 rounded up to 5⭐️)
February 27, 2025
I am so sad to be at the end of this series!! (For now - maybe?)
It perfectly blends all my favorite aspects of a golf/sports rom-com, and the sequential reading made the plot connections so rewarding. Do you really need to? Not at all. You really should, though. Actually, you should definitely read it all in one go.
It’s a genuine pleasure to be back in the Highlands with these characters. Upon returning to the McLeod estate, Campbell has found a safe space to recover and reassess his life after leaving the military. To Campbell’s dismay, his brother Aaron, the present Laird, sanctioned the development of a golf course on the land. The project is under the direction of Joy, a distinguished professional golfer and friend of Aaron’s. The strong personalities of Joy, a bold and driven woman determined to succeed, and Campbell created an entertaining conflict; a “sunshine versus grump” scenario. Their fiery chemistry and Joy’s habit of provoking Campbell made the book unputdownable. This couple is ideally suited; each finds in the other exactly what they need. The steamy chemistry between them was electric; I couldn’t put the book down!
Reading the previous books allowed for a deeper understanding and appreciation of the interconnected characters and enhanced the plot. I eagerly anticipate the author’s next work. I was fortunate to receive an ARC of this story from Booksirens (thank you) and happily leave my review.
It perfectly blends all my favorite aspects of a golf/sports rom-com, and the sequential reading made the plot connections so rewarding. Do you really need to? Not at all. You really should, though. Actually, you should definitely read it all in one go.
It’s a genuine pleasure to be back in the Highlands with these characters. Upon returning to the McLeod estate, Campbell has found a safe space to recover and reassess his life after leaving the military. To Campbell’s dismay, his brother Aaron, the present Laird, sanctioned the development of a golf course on the land. The project is under the direction of Joy, a distinguished professional golfer and friend of Aaron’s. The strong personalities of Joy, a bold and driven woman determined to succeed, and Campbell created an entertaining conflict; a “sunshine versus grump” scenario. Their fiery chemistry and Joy’s habit of provoking Campbell made the book unputdownable. This couple is ideally suited; each finds in the other exactly what they need. The steamy chemistry between them was electric; I couldn’t put the book down!
Reading the previous books allowed for a deeper understanding and appreciation of the interconnected characters and enhanced the plot. I eagerly anticipate the author’s next work. I was fortunate to receive an ARC of this story from Booksirens (thank you) and happily leave my review.
April 1, 2025
Match Play by Veronica Peartree is an enemies to lovers romance that actually delivers from start to finish. Joy and Campbell don’t just butt heads for two or three chapters – they fight, flirt, and resist each other and it’s gloriously sizzling fun. The tension simmers, snaps, and keeps the pages flying.
Campbell is HOT. Gruff silence, heavy shoulders, thick thighs in a kilt, and high emotional walls. Underneath it all, he’s been soft on Joy for years. The way his past and his PTSD are handled is subtle and thoughtful. It adds enough weight to make his vulnerability hit when it counts.
Joy is just such a joy. She’s fun, sassy, and chaotic in all the right ways, but there’s depth too – real heart and a quiet determination that makes her easy to root for. Hugs and high-fives! She’s the kind of heroine who lights up a whole book.
The spice hits exactly where it should. Filthy enough to fry your brain, tender enough to make it mean something. The secret passageway scene? Oof. 🌶🌶🌶
Also, this book gets Scotland. As someone who actually lives here, I’m begging more authors to take notes. It all feels real, lived-in, and genuinely gorgeous. Stunning landscapes, country estate with Aga, big dug… Sigh! It’s romantic but not romanticising.
Fun, sharp, hot, and full of heart – this book is an absolute favourite. Proper enemies to lovers with bite, heat, and heart. I’m obsessed.
Campbell is HOT. Gruff silence, heavy shoulders, thick thighs in a kilt, and high emotional walls. Underneath it all, he’s been soft on Joy for years. The way his past and his PTSD are handled is subtle and thoughtful. It adds enough weight to make his vulnerability hit when it counts.
Joy is just such a joy. She’s fun, sassy, and chaotic in all the right ways, but there’s depth too – real heart and a quiet determination that makes her easy to root for. Hugs and high-fives! She’s the kind of heroine who lights up a whole book.
The spice hits exactly where it should. Filthy enough to fry your brain, tender enough to make it mean something. The secret passageway scene? Oof. 🌶🌶🌶
Also, this book gets Scotland. As someone who actually lives here, I’m begging more authors to take notes. It all feels real, lived-in, and genuinely gorgeous. Stunning landscapes, country estate with Aga, big dug… Sigh! It’s romantic but not romanticising.
Fun, sharp, hot, and full of heart – this book is an absolute favourite. Proper enemies to lovers with bite, heat, and heart. I’m obsessed.
February 28, 2025
This was a really fun read. There was good banter, enjoyable characters, unexpected character growth, and no/low angst. Sometimes you just need to escape into a romcom and this is a good one.
Joy is a pro golfer who is taking a break due to an injury, so she is working for her dad's fancy golf course company to design a course for her friends' estate.
Campbell is an ex-Royal Marine who is back at his family's estate to help his brother with the running of it but also to escape the world and the horrors he has seen.
They know each other from when they were young. He was her friend's nerdy little brother. She was the gorgeous girl he big time crushed on. Their reunion does not go well. He wants to stop the golf course from being built. She wants to prove she can do the job and do it well. Common ground is difficult to find. Things escalate and eventually the police get involved. And it just keeps getting better from there!
If you're worried because of the sport element or golf isn't your thing, it is not the star. It exists in the world but you don't have to love it or know anything about it.
This was my first Veronice Peartree book and I look forward to reading her other stories.
This was a really enoyable book and I am so grateful I was given the opportunity to read it in advance.
Joy is a pro golfer who is taking a break due to an injury, so she is working for her dad's fancy golf course company to design a course for her friends' estate.
Campbell is an ex-Royal Marine who is back at his family's estate to help his brother with the running of it but also to escape the world and the horrors he has seen.
They know each other from when they were young. He was her friend's nerdy little brother. She was the gorgeous girl he big time crushed on. Their reunion does not go well. He wants to stop the golf course from being built. She wants to prove she can do the job and do it well. Common ground is difficult to find. Things escalate and eventually the police get involved. And it just keeps getting better from there!
If you're worried because of the sport element or golf isn't your thing, it is not the star. It exists in the world but you don't have to love it or know anything about it.
This was my first Veronice Peartree book and I look forward to reading her other stories.
This was a really enoyable book and I am so grateful I was given the opportunity to read it in advance.
February 28, 2025
📕BOOK REVIEW📕
This is book 3 in the series and probably my favourite one 😍😍
Grumpy Campbell does not want his Scottish estate gone to be turned into a golf course, but pro-female golfer, Joy and his brother have other ideas. Campbell does everything he can to pause the project, but he didn’t expect to unpause his feelings on Joy.
I found this book to be incredibly funny. The pranks Campbell comes up with to stop the construction was pretty hilarious and I just loved how Joy responded to them. Joy truly is outstanding. I found her to be such a strong and carefree character, who wasn’t afraid to put herself out there and fight for the sport she loves.
Campbell was sooooo grumpy and I loved him, obviously. His past as a royal marine meant that he has been through some horrific moments, but the scene where Joy comforts him made me 🥺😭
As with all three novels, it’s set in Scotland and the descriptions of the country are just beautiful.
I also love the fact they promote females in a male dominated sport: golf.
I have read 4 novels by this author and I love them all. I cannot wait to see what she writes next.
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
This is book 3 in the series and probably my favourite one 😍😍
Grumpy Campbell does not want his Scottish estate gone to be turned into a golf course, but pro-female golfer, Joy and his brother have other ideas. Campbell does everything he can to pause the project, but he didn’t expect to unpause his feelings on Joy.
I found this book to be incredibly funny. The pranks Campbell comes up with to stop the construction was pretty hilarious and I just loved how Joy responded to them. Joy truly is outstanding. I found her to be such a strong and carefree character, who wasn’t afraid to put herself out there and fight for the sport she loves.
Campbell was sooooo grumpy and I loved him, obviously. His past as a royal marine meant that he has been through some horrific moments, but the scene where Joy comforts him made me 🥺😭
As with all three novels, it’s set in Scotland and the descriptions of the country are just beautiful.
I also love the fact they promote females in a male dominated sport: golf.
I have read 4 novels by this author and I love them all. I cannot wait to see what she writes next.
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
May 5, 2025
Although this is the third book in the Playing A Round series it is a complete stand alone story so don't sweat it if you haven't read the previous instalments. Like the other two books, we are in Scotland and golf plays a part but we have a completely new bunch of characters with their own saucy tale to tell.
The Scottish setting is well realised and makes a beautiful backdrop for events, although be aware there is a mixture of real and invented locations so it may take a bit of getting used to if you are familiar with the Cairngorms area. The story is well paced and told with an easy style that made me keep turning the page. The romance is believable and the characters are very likeable with everything being helped along by a dose of laugh out loud humour. Some of the pranks played by Campbell in his bid to sabotage the golf course will have anyone chuckling, especially a scene involving a super sized helping of KFC. A fantastic read for anyone who love a "grumpyxsunshine" romance.
The Scottish setting is well realised and makes a beautiful backdrop for events, although be aware there is a mixture of real and invented locations so it may take a bit of getting used to if you are familiar with the Cairngorms area. The story is well paced and told with an easy style that made me keep turning the page. The romance is believable and the characters are very likeable with everything being helped along by a dose of laugh out loud humour. Some of the pranks played by Campbell in his bid to sabotage the golf course will have anyone chuckling, especially a scene involving a super sized helping of KFC. A fantastic read for anyone who love a "grumpyxsunshine" romance.
March 10, 2025
This is book 3 in the 'Playing A Round' series but can absolutely be read as a standalone.
It's a romcom set in Scotland, so I absolutely couldn't resist it. I'm not a fan of golf, and that does play a central role, but it's not too overpowering that you can't enjoy the book without a knowledge of professional golf.
I loved the characters, especially the relationship between the two brothers. Harris, the dog, stole the show a couple of times, too.
There were a number of times when I burst out laughing. It's got great banter and humour throughout.
It also deals with some really sensitive topics in a very supportive manner.
There's some definite sizzle in the romance stakes, I love a grumpy X sunshine personality, especially when the grump eventually gives into their feelings.
It's super quick to read at under 300 pages, I finished this over the course of a day.
It's the first time I've read anything by this author, but I'd definitely love to read more!
It's a romcom set in Scotland, so I absolutely couldn't resist it. I'm not a fan of golf, and that does play a central role, but it's not too overpowering that you can't enjoy the book without a knowledge of professional golf.
I loved the characters, especially the relationship between the two brothers. Harris, the dog, stole the show a couple of times, too.
There were a number of times when I burst out laughing. It's got great banter and humour throughout.
It also deals with some really sensitive topics in a very supportive manner.
There's some definite sizzle in the romance stakes, I love a grumpy X sunshine personality, especially when the grump eventually gives into their feelings.
It's super quick to read at under 300 pages, I finished this over the course of a day.
It's the first time I've read anything by this author, but I'd definitely love to read more!
March 16, 2025
I was a bit torn on Match Play, but I ultimately decided I liked it. At first, I could not stand Joy and I felt terrible for Campbell. No one seemed to care that his sanctuary was being taken from him. In fact, Joy flaunted it and acted as though she had more right to his home than he did. That particular issue was never actually resolved, we’re just supposed to believe that Campbell comes around and accepts the desecration of his family estate. Ok, moving along… I did like the growth arc of the MCs, though Joy’s didn’t feel as redemptive or complete as Campbell’s. Campbell had much more depth than Joy; she was a hard character to like. The setting was my favorite part of the book. The author did a fantastic job painting the picture of the Scottish highlands. The spice was just ok for me. I would read another book by this author.
I received a copy of Match Play from BookSirens. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received a copy of Match Play from BookSirens. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 1, 2025
My favourite parts about this book was the relationship between the brothers Campbell and Arron as well as their relationship with their dog. I also found the pranks Campbell kept doing in an attempt to sabotage Arron and Joy’s golf club plans really funny especially Joy’s reactions to them. Campbell is the perfect grumpy Scotsman I was expecting and is definitely going to be added to my long list of book boyrfriends. As much as I liked the tension, chemistry and spicy scenes with Campbell and Joy, I didn’t really connect with her character. For the first half of the book, it felt like she was too dismissive of Campbell’s emotions and then after she saw his scars she completely flipped to the other side. This is the second book I have read by this author and while I think I enjoyed The English Professor more, I look forward to reading more of Veronica Peartree’s books in the future.
Thank you so much to the author and booksprout.co for providing me with an arc in return for an honest review. All thoughts expressed here are my own.
Thank you so much to the author and booksprout.co for providing me with an arc in return for an honest review. All thoughts expressed here are my own.
March 12, 2025
Great Mix of Grumpy/Sunshine, Laughs and Serious Topics, and Romance with Heat
This was a wonderful read because of the characters, banter, pranks spice and even the handling of more serious topics like PTSD, and career ending injuries. I loved Campbell and Joy together, from him suppressing his attraction to her while also fighting her golf course on his land with his hysterical pranks to his then wooing her with camping trips and picnics. The background characters- their friends and family were also well developed and likable. The book was well written, flows easily and I could not put it down - I can't wait for more from this author- Enjoy!
I was sent an ARC by the author and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
This was a wonderful read because of the characters, banter, pranks spice and even the handling of more serious topics like PTSD, and career ending injuries. I loved Campbell and Joy together, from him suppressing his attraction to her while also fighting her golf course on his land with his hysterical pranks to his then wooing her with camping trips and picnics. The background characters- their friends and family were also well developed and likable. The book was well written, flows easily and I could not put it down - I can't wait for more from this author- Enjoy!
I was sent an ARC by the author and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
March 26, 2025
First time reading this author and she has me through all the feels. Mad, glad, sad, fanning myself…you get it. Joy and Campbell are childhood acquaintances. Things come to a head when Campbell tries to stop Joy’s golf course being built on he and his brother’s estate. The descriptions of Scottish landscape was awesome. Perfect balance of witty banter, lol pranks, sizzling chemistry, and friends/family. I enjoyed watching as they both became what each other needed. Fun rom-com read and I will be looking into more of this author’s work.
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 23, 2025
4⭐️ 3🌶️
Yet another book by the lovely Veronica that I thoroughly enjoyed! Campbell and Joy had palpable chemistry the second they shared a page. This was a completely new storyline for me and I really enjoyed the idea of creating a golf course, which is something I never thought I'd say lol. I'm always here for an MMC that is ex-military, they're characters with tons of depth and they make for great, emotional reading. The way Joy is there for Campbell and helps him work on his problems is just 👩🏼🍳💋! I love their bickering and banter and overall, just love them together! Super sweet read!
Yet another book by the lovely Veronica that I thoroughly enjoyed! Campbell and Joy had palpable chemistry the second they shared a page. This was a completely new storyline for me and I really enjoyed the idea of creating a golf course, which is something I never thought I'd say lol. I'm always here for an MMC that is ex-military, they're characters with tons of depth and they make for great, emotional reading. The way Joy is there for Campbell and helps him work on his problems is just 👩🏼🍳💋! I love their bickering and banter and overall, just love them together! Super sweet read!
March 22, 2025
This was so cute 🥰🥰 really beautiful story I have an oportunity to read as a arc And i fell in love with the story so much as I fell in love with the writing of Veronica, that i had to get the rest of the series ❤️
This is the 3rd book in series And have everything i want to read.. Ex military grumpy mmc, hot as hell 😎, strong And beautiful fmc, with my type of humor.
I can only recomend this book, as Well as whole series.
This is the 3rd book in series And have everything i want to read.. Ex military grumpy mmc, hot as hell 😎, strong And beautiful fmc, with my type of humor.
I can only recomend this book, as Well as whole series.
March 10, 2025
well balanced
Campbell and Joy´s story is so much more than a sexy romcom, it´s also about dealing with PTSD, finding common ground ( I´m really not a fan of golf courses, but salvaging a heritage can really put enormous stress on your purse) - I loved the balance between laugh out loud moments and those that made me think.
Campbell and Joy´s story is so much more than a sexy romcom, it´s also about dealing with PTSD, finding common ground ( I´m really not a fan of golf courses, but salvaging a heritage can really put enormous stress on your purse) - I loved the balance between laugh out loud moments and those that made me think.
March 15, 2025
I had the chance to read this as an ARC and appreciate being chosen
For me this book was a lovely cozy romance. Some aspects did make me laugh out loud but it was very predictable.
The story between the 2 main characters is very slow burning, and just a bit meh. It took a while for this book to get going for me and didn’t really have me racing to finish it.
For me this book was a lovely cozy romance. Some aspects did make me laugh out loud but it was very predictable.
The story between the 2 main characters is very slow burning, and just a bit meh. It took a while for this book to get going for me and didn’t really have me racing to finish it.
February 26, 2025
I would like to thank the author for a free copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
The perfect grumpy/sunshine romance. A beautiful setting and the push and pull between the characters was great. There was chronic pain rep that the author seemed to forget about for most of the story that could have been handled better.
The perfect grumpy/sunshine romance. A beautiful setting and the push and pull between the characters was great. There was chronic pain rep that the author seemed to forget about for most of the story that could have been handled better.
March 4, 2025
This story presents a different take on enemies to lovers and grumpy-sunshine. Lots of banter and pranks balance the steamy chemistry. The family and friends add definite flavor.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 20, 2025
It's getting hot in the Highlands!
This fast-paced romance is a real page turner. The chemistry between Joy and Campbell sizzles off the page and there is a lot of humour in their antics. My favourite book of the series so far, can't wait for the next one!
This fast-paced romance is a real page turner. The chemistry between Joy and Campbell sizzles off the page and there is a lot of humour in their antics. My favourite book of the series so far, can't wait for the next one!
March 26, 2025
Joy and Campbell are such a fun pairing. I love the shared history, the beautiful setting and how playful Joy is with Campbell, even when he's being a grump. This book has just the right amount of spice too.
I received a free ARC of this book, this is my unbiased opinion
I received a free ARC of this book, this is my unbiased opinion
February 26, 2025
4 ⭐ 2.5 🌶️
A definite enemies to lovers slow burn, with some open door spice. PTSD and difficult parental relationship rep.
The brief Canadian references were funny.
A definite enemies to lovers slow burn, with some open door spice. PTSD and difficult parental relationship rep.
The brief Canadian references were funny.
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