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True Scotsman #5

The Highland Bad Boy

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Everyone in Bannock knows Robbie MacDonald is trouble. I see him as my next adventure.

My plan was return to my Highland hometown, start my new teaching job, and fix up the crumbling flat I just bought. Things get complicated when I stumble across Robbie splitting logs in low-slung jeans and nothing else--tattoos on display, biceps bulging.

He's off limits for more reasons than I can count, not least because my brothers hate his guts. But when my attempts at DIY go spectacularly wrong, I hire Robbie to help. If that gives me extra time to ogle him? That's just a bonus.

Flirting gets me nowhere at first, but I'm nothing if not persistent. Eventually, he lets his guard down… and it turns out his eyebrow isn't the only place he's pierced.

It's all just fun and games, until he's accused of something serious, and the town turns on him.

I'm sure he's innocent. But proving it means going up against gossip, old grudges, and risking my heart on the town's notorious bad boy.

---

The Highland Bad Boy is the fifth and final book in the True Scotsman series of interconnected standalones.

Fall for a tattooed outcast in this steamy small-town romance full of forbidden longing, fierce loyalty, and a heroine who refuses to walk away. ❤️

286 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 15, 2025

99 people are currently reading
123 people want to read

About the author

Amy McGavin

13 books59 followers
Amy 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.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
Profile Image for Laura.
58 reviews
May 24, 2025
What a perfect final book to round off a delightful series. I’m devastated that it’s over and can’t wait to read more from this brilliant duo! 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿
Profile Image for Ann-Maree.
1,112 reviews9 followers
May 19, 2025
"The Highland Bad Boy" by Amy McGavin is the fifth book in the captivating True Scotman series, and I must admit, I was pleasantly surprised by how much I connected with the character of Bad Boy Robbie MacDonald throughout this read.

Cat McIntyre has returned to her quaint hometown of Bannocks for good and has recently purchased a charming flat, signalling a new chapter in her life as the youngest sister among three protective brothers. Her independence and determination to carve out her own space amidst familial expectations add a rich layer to her character.

Robbie MacDonald, on the other hand, is an intriguing figure cloaked in shadows and whispers. Known for his dark past and infamous reputation in town, his history with the McIntyre brothers creates an undeniable tension. His mysterious aura and layered persona make him both alluring and complicated.

The chemistry between Cat and Robbie crackles with electricity, pulsating with a fiery intensity as they grapple with their complicated emotions. Their encounters are charged with passion, particularly the steamy scene deep in the woods, where the air is thick with desire. This moment was so captivating and sensual that it established the emotional tone for the rest of the book for me..

This book is an enthralling mix of passion and intrigue, filled with spicy romance, unravelling family dramas, the journey of forgiveness, and profound self-growth. It’s a wonderful read that balances heart-pounding moments with deeper themes, making it a truly satisfying addition to the series.
Profile Image for Lyn Brownlie.
667 reviews15 followers
May 15, 2025
Everyone loves a bad boy
Another great read in this series.
To most Robbie MacDonald was the bad boy in town that was always getting into trouble with the law.
Growing up his reputation still seems to follow him even though he has changed considerably.
Would the town ever forgive his antics?
Or is he destined to always be the bad boy?
The feisty, gorgeous Cat McIntyre is back in town for good, has just purchased her own property and is on a mission to bed the bad boy Robbie MacDonald.
Starting as a bit of fun Cat ends up hiring him to renovate her new home and soon becomes enamoured with Robbie, seeing the real person that he hides from the world.
Being framed for thefts he did not commit Cat sets out to clear his name and win the bad boys heart.
I loved every minute of this story, it was funny and emotional at times, has some spicy scenes and has a great storyline dealing with some sensitive issues.
Also I enjoyed the constant tension and banter between Cat and Robbie as she tries many times to seduce him.
I’ve loved this series and the catch ups with previous characters throughout the stories. ♥️
Profile Image for Shannon.
56 reviews
May 12, 2025
Very grateful to receive an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review

Absolutely gutted the series has come to an end, but what an ending! Cat and Robbie's story of party girl and bad boy turned sensible (ish) adults with a mystery subplot had me giggling and emotionally invested.

The deep conversations had in this book to me are just as important as the romance, and as always, Amy and Gavin handle these sensitive topics with care.

I just have one downside, a little one - no bad boy Robbie Mcdonald in a kilt? 😢

I really hope we get another series like this soon, the authors really have a way of writing characters you feel invested in and want to root for - the dinner scene and flat warming scene with everyone together really was the perfect way to end a great series
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Shauna Adams.
Author 1 book13 followers
May 12, 2025
Project bang a bad boy is a go 😎

Cat MacIntyre, the sister of Ally, Lewis, and Jamie, is a feisty spitfire, and she has set her sights on Bannocks resident "bad boy" Robbie MacDonald. Forbidden fruit always tastes better 😋

I loved the feisty nature of Cat, who initially just wanted some fun. But Robbie isn't just the bad boy everyone thinks he is. He is dealing with emotional trauma, and when he's accused of stealing, Cat sets about trying to prove his innocence.

This book made me laugh so hard and even had me in tears during some of the more emotional moments - when Robbie opens up about what haunts him.

Cat and Robbie featured in the background of this series, and I loved seeing them get their moment to shine, and I can honestly say it was well worth the wait 🥰
1,175 reviews6 followers
June 22, 2025
Ok. I am now bereft that this series has come to an end. The final McIntyre sibling, Cat is determined to have some fun with the Bannock bad boy, Robbie. He is her older brother, Ally's arch enemy. They were forever scrapping growing up and Robbie was always in trouble. When Robbie has trouble at his family's resort and is suspended, Cat seizes the opportunity to hire him to renovate her newly bought flat. Robbie fights the attraction to Cat, but comes round when she offers to help him clear his name, having been wrongly accused of misdemeanours. Together with Robbie's brother's boyfriend, Cat gains entry to an office in the resort to gather evidence. This is such a fun, steamy and emotional read and a fitting finale to a fantastic series.
900 reviews6 followers
May 25, 2025
Grwat story!

Robbie was known as a bad boy, all due to his mothers antics. His Da should have been a more living one, but Robbie was blames for everything. Cat had three older brothers and was not able to do much so she left to go to school and partied a lot. Now, home, she sees Robbie and she sets her sights on him. He is accused of theft and she is determined to get him off that charge.
Profile Image for booksadoodle (Tammy).
328 reviews11 followers
May 25, 2025
Wow! You definitely saved the best for last, Amy & Gavin! This last book in the True Scotsman series is everything. 👌🏻 Featuring Catriona McIntyre, the little sister of the three McIntyre men, and Robbie MacDonald, the small-town bad boy and arch nemesis of Cat’s oldest brother, Ally. There’s always more to the story, and people are always quick to judge a book by its cover. What starts as Cat wanting a bit of fun with the “bad boy” morphs when she finds she is falling for him. For Robbie, no one has ever looked at him or had his back like Cat, defending him against all others. Full of heart, heat, and redemption, this one was absolutely my favorite in the series. I am so excited that all 5 books will be released as audiobooks 🎧 as I need to read these again with those Scottish accents. 🥵🫠 Thank you so much to Amy & Gavin for the opportunity to review this e-ARC, and all the books in the series! I have loved them all and super excited to read what you come up with next! I received a gifted advance review copy for free and am leaving my honest review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Jill Green.
498 reviews2 followers
June 11, 2025
Wasn’t sure about this book at first and Cat seemed very immature. However it soon became clear she was much more mature than what she first seemed once she got to know Robbie better.
Loved this book and the chemistry between Robbie and Cat.
I received a copy from Booksirens and leave my review voluntarily
Profile Image for Rebecca Robertson.
34 reviews1 follower
May 15, 2025
Oh my days, this is the last book in the series and I'm gutted. I absolutely adored all of these stories. This book is absolutely on fire, Cat is absolutely stubborn and knows what she wants and Robbie is dark and mysterious but his walls do eventually drop a wee bit. Recommend all of the series ❤️
20 reviews
May 16, 2025
Worth the wait!

I waited months for this book and it didn't disappoint.
Cat and Robbie are absolutely fire and sass in and out of the bedroom. The woods scene was so naughty and sexy.
Another HEA
I can't wait for the next in the series.
Profile Image for Lisa J Page.
Author 3 books46 followers
May 18, 2025
Great dual pov story of Cat and Robbie. Cat finds that Robbie has a talent for DIY which she can use to her advantage. Can she give up her party ways to tame Bannock's Bad Boy?
Fantastic read, loved reading the True Scotman series and each one gets better and better.
Looking forward to reading more of your future work.
Profile Image for Lesley Allen.
44 reviews2 followers
May 22, 2025
Robbie MacDonald and Cat McIntyre steal the spotlight in this heartfelt finale to the True Scotsman series.

Robbie is known as the resident "bad boy" with a rugged exterior and a complex past.

Catriona (Cat) on the other hand, is a strong-willed and independent woman who challenges Robbie at every turn. Her determination makes her a formidable counterpart.

Cat has returned to Bannock and sets her sight on Robbie with the mission to "bang the Bad Boy" however Robbie has a complicated past with Cat's older brothers.....but can he resist her?
164 reviews1 follower
May 23, 2025
Such a great story and nice way to end the series.
I really enjoyed Cat and Robbie's story, having gotten to know the characters separately throughout the series, they go so will together. It's a great story that shows people have many layers
Profile Image for Justins.
104 reviews2 followers
May 23, 2025
Perfect ending to the series! Can't wait to see what's next for this writing dynamic duo!
Profile Image for That_awkwardbook.
235 reviews4 followers
June 17, 2025
Scottish Bad boy spicy Romcom sign me up!
The mmc is a tattooed and pierced Biker. I have nothing to add to that. He is absolute perfection and good with his hands.
He is accused of stealing and it really doesn't look good for him can he clear his name?
The plot was absorbing and delicious spicy.
This is part of a series and you get to see some of the other characters of the previous books but you can read it as standalone.

Thank you to the authors Amy and Gavin and BookSirens for trusting me with an early copy of this book.
Profile Image for Sara.
37 reviews
May 17, 2025
Amazing read I really wish there was more to there stories but was an amazing end to the series. Love a bad boy turned sweet
700 reviews2 followers
June 16, 2025
Great Read!

4.75⭐️ I think Cat and Robbie might be my favorite couple of this series. Robbie can’t outrun the reputation that he earned in his youth. Cat is looking for a bad boy. When Robbie gets fired, he agrees to renovate Cat’s house and she tries to prove he didn’t do what he was accused of. This is spicy and sweet with characters that you want to have happy ending.
1,503 reviews19 followers
June 17, 2025
follow your heart

Cat and Robbie´s story reminded me to form my own opinion about people and to stand up for what I think is right, history should have taught us by now that those who yell the loudest do not necessarily speak the truth. I liked the sizzling and entertaining way the author chose to deliver an important message.
Profile Image for Emma.
13 reviews2 followers
May 21, 2025
If you go down to the Bannock woods today…

I finished this book a few days ago and have been fanning myself ever since, which is nothing to do with the Scottish heatwave, and everything to do with Robbie MacDonald. The man is on fire!!

The Highland Bad Boy concludes the True Scotsman series and all I can say is that I hope the next series the McGavins have up their sleeve involves bad boys in every book because I need more.

The great thing about this story is that it pulls you along not just with the “will-they-won’t-they-and-how-fricking-hot-is-it-going-to-be-when-they-do?” tension between Robbie and Cat, but there is also the highly engaging whodunnit sub-plot regarding the theft at the hotel, of which our hero, Robbie, is the number one suspect.

Of course, Robbie isn’t really a bad boy, he’s just had a rough ride over his lifetime and is misunderstood. Thankfully, the firecracker that is Cat sees beyond the moody exterior and understands that there is glittering beneath the surface (in very specific places, but I’ll leave you to discover that one for yourself). Their developing relationship is lovely, and how Robbie learns to trust and realises that there are people who will stand up for him, is just so sweet and endearing. But the sex is still HOT! The scene in the woods, the bathroom wall.. Oh me, oh my!

If you like small-town Scottish romance with a cosy feel but also heroes that make you go “grrr” and romance that makes you go “aaah” then I highly recommend The Highland Bad Boy. It’s the perfect Scottish, spicy page-turner.
Profile Image for Natasha.
59 reviews
May 15, 2025
This book is the last in the True Scotsman series and they have saved the best till last! All the food groups are catered for Tattooed, Bad boy reputation, Biker, Grumpy and pierced!! phew!!

Robbie MacDonald is a loner grump with a bad rep in the small town of Bannock. But is he really as bad as everyone makes him out to be or is he seriously misunderstood?

Cat McIntyre is they younger sister of the 3 McIntyre brothers and is a bit on the immature side. She moves back to town and buys an apartment that needs some serious TLC and thinks her brothers will fall over themselves to help her out. Yeah, they all have their own lives now so that won’t be happening in a hurry.

Robbie works at the local resort as the head of Maintenance (his dad (the manager) and brother also work there). Some guest’s jewellery goes missing and the fingers get pointed at Robbie. He ends up going out on his own and fixing Cat’s disaster apartment.

Cat comes to realise that there is more to Robbie that the rumors and stories and helps fight to prove his innocence. Even his own dad has his doubts.

This story is spicy but also super heart-warming and shows that leopards can actually change their spots.

I love the writing style, and the quotes are hilarious! One of my favourite lines was “her eyes narrow like she’s about to deduct points from Gryffindor”
Profile Image for Claudia, Cmarie927.
2,072 reviews41 followers
May 16, 2025
Beginning Robbie and Cat’s story amused me; I’d sensed Robbie’s “bad boy” reputation concealed more than met the eye, and I was determined to unearth it all in these pages, and man, I sure did!

For ages, the McIntyres and MacDonalds have been in the same town, yet they’re not friends. That relationship seems fixed by past events, but Catriona McIntyre’s return and mischievous interest in the resident bad boy changes everything. Robbie finds himself in a seemingly impossible situation, needing just one person to believe in his innocence and support him, something that has been lacking in his life so far.

It’s easy to connect with and appreciate Cat’s impulsive and brash personality. I loved watching her playfully push Robbie’s buttons; the chemistry between them was electric and kept me completely engaged. I enjoyed watching their bond of trust and understanding develop, which was even more moving than their steamy connection. She hadn’t anticipated the intense emotions he stirred within her, nor the complex web of misunderstandings that clouded his past and present.

This series has been quite entertaining, and addictive. I don’t want it to end!! It is full of heart warming and heart breaking situations, and I have enjoyed the imprint of these characters in my head and heart. Reading in order is imperative for the best experience, and so the connections make sense. I look forward to the next new release from this talented author duo.

Fortunate to receive an ARC (thank you), I happily leave my review.
Profile Image for Katie.
898 reviews4 followers
July 3, 2025
Cat is much more “trouble” than Robbie. She returns home to teach but is still acting like a wild child college student - financially irresponsible, buying a flat in poor condition using almost all her money then expecting Robbie to work on it for free until she can scrape together the money to pay him, continually throwing herself at him. However, as she gets to know him better, she finds much more to him than just his hotness (though there’s plenty of that!). Robbie has spent years trying to live down his trouble making youth and has found satisfaction in doing maintenance and fixing things and being (mostly) on the straight and narrow. As Cat gets to know Robbie better, she finds he’s a pretty great guy. And when she stands up for him against the false accusations and those who always looked down on him (basically the whole town), Robbie starts to realize that Cat is steadfast and loyal and always thinks the best of him. Sweet and hot and a lot of growth.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for J.
4,092 reviews21 followers
June 27, 2025
This is book 5 and the final in McGavin's True Scotsman series. A wonderfully well written book and a great addition / conclusion to this series. I love that our main character Robbie has a bad boy reputation that continues to follow him into adulthood and though he's changed and not the notorious bad boy he once was he can't seem to shake the reputation that follows him. Cat comes to town and has Robbie in mind as her conquest and while she starts off this goal as a bit of fun, she soon sees him for who he is and how he hides the real him from the world. I just loved this read, McGavin delivers a well written and captivating read with all the sweet and steam and even the feels. I loved it and while I hate this series has come to an end, this was a perfect ending. Can't wait to see what McGain will write next?!?!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Lisa Benison.
580 reviews16 followers
May 29, 2025
Perfect Ending to a Wonderful Series with Heat, Heart and Even a Mystery to Solve

I loved this final installment to the True Scotsman series and was thrilled to see Cat home with her family and friends and that she met her match in Robbie. I loved how once they got past their attraction (and it was 5 chili peppers hot!) they were able to open up and really "see" each other. And her support of him when he was accused of theft and her eagerness to solve the mystery and find the real thief kept the pages turning so that I couldn't put the book down and read it in one sitting. The families coming together at the end was the perfect ending to the series, although I am sad to see it end, I can't wait to see what the authors come up with next - Enjoy!

I was sent an ARC by the authors and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
Profile Image for Vickie Chaisson.
1,192 reviews10 followers
July 6, 2025
The Highland Bad boy is a great addition to the True Scotsman series. The storyline is emotional, fun filled and full of lessons to be taught. The back story of the main characters is heartbreaking in thay they both have traumas in their past. Robbie and Cat have know each other for years and could have supported each other then but their were so many people with opinions about both of the them. As this story comes together their real selves emerge and find they have amazing chemistry but as the town bad boy Robbie keeps his distance. His character is expertly written and so full fledged he was my favorite character. You will fall in love with these two and not put this book down.
Profile Image for Shari.
90 reviews3 followers
July 31, 2025
"He's off limits for more reasons than I can count, not least because my brothers hate his guts"

If that doesn't draw you in to read, NOTHING will! What a fantastic ending to a truly wonderful series. Sparks fly when Cat—the fiery, headstrong little sister—and Robbie—the misunderstood bad boy—cross paths during home renovations gone hilariously wrong. Their chemistry is instant, the banter is sharp, and the emotional payoff is everything fans hoped for!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
698 reviews
June 30, 2025
Yes please! I love a man who is a bit of a Scottish rogue! Robbie grabbed a hold of me pretty quickly and I was ok if he didn't let go.

Cat annoyed me slightly with her spoiled attitude but I was able to get over it once we really got into the story.

I loved to visit our passed characters and to see how they're all doing. I was really happy about how Ally was portrayed right up until the end. It felt much more authentic.
Profile Image for Sam.
435 reviews1 follower
June 1, 2025
This was not it for me. The FMC bounced between trying to be a flirty and assertive female to being a helpless, immature girl who relied on everyone else to sort things out. I think it’s supposed to be camp and silly but it just fell so flat for me and the whole time she just seemed to relentless push Robbie into a relationship he wasn’t entirely comfortable with. Ughh.
Profile Image for Beth.
223 reviews1 follower
June 25, 2025
Whewwwww!!! I was so excited to see Robbie in his own book and it did not disappoint! I love Cat and her and Robbie's relationship was so fun to explore. This whole series is golden and makes me want to go find my own highland bad boy!

I received an advance copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews

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