The Tartan Thesis: Love was never on the curriculum.

by Scott K. Good

Two academic rivals. One forced partnership. Zero chance of keeping it professional.

After a disastrous first meeting off campus, Beau, a charming fish-out-of-water Texan, and Torin, a guarded, razor-smart Scotsman, discover they’re pursuing their PhDs in the same Scottish History program. Their clashing personalities and growing insecurities turn every seminar into a battlefield… until the department chair provides an ultimatum: work together or get out.

Forced into a shaky alliance, they vow to call a ceasefire and actually learn from one another. As trust builds and defenses fall, they find themselves caught in a slow-burning connection neither of them is prepared for—or willing to walk away from.

With their academic futures at stake and romantic missteps haunting them at every turn, Torin and Beau face the hardest question of all: Can they build a future together, or will history keep them apart?

Perfect for readers who love MM romance, enemies-to-lovers, slow burn tension, forced proximity, LGBTQ+ romance, and swoony international love stories, The Tartan Thesis blends sharp wit, emotional depth, and undeniable and steamy chemistry against the majestic backdrop of Scotland.

Genres: M M Romance

383 pages

Expected publication May 26, 2026

About the author

Scott's debut MM romance novel, The Tartan Thesis, is coming soon.

Find him on Instagram @scottkgoodwrites.

Reviews

[Andrew Reimers · Rating 5 out of 5]

Got an advanced copy and loved it. Great characters. Great setting. Very funny and sexy as hell. 10/10 will read again

[Gabrielle · Rating 4 out of 5]

Well, now I want to visit Scotland and pet a highland cow! I really enjoyed reading this funny and sweet MM romance - and my first ever ARC.

The two main characters, Torin and Beau meet on their first day in their graduate history program in Edinburgh and immediately get off on the wrong foot. I’m not gonna lie, I didn’t like Torin at first - like at all. I yelled at him a couple times in the beginning. But the author developed his character well so that it became clear that he was not in fact the know it all jerk he comes across as, but someone who ultimately has insecurities from past trauma that he is struggling with. I grew to love him as the book went on.

Now Beau on the other hand I loved with my whole heart from the get. He is a charming, blonde gym buff from Texas, who always gave Torin the benefit of a doubt even when he was being insufferable. I loved him and rooted for him the whole time.

Now the “enemies” portion of the book was only about two minutes long and that’s ok because then it went into a yearning-filled, friends-to-lovers-will-they-kiss-already type situation that I personally like better than enemies to lovers. And the smut does come I promise and it’s worth the wait.

I really loved the snippets or Scottish culture and history that were woven naturally throughout the story! I also loved the academic setting. I have never been in a phd program so I have no comparison, but the scenes that were set in the classroom and included classroom discussion came across as realistic and genuine. It’s clear the author did a lot of research for this book.

This was a very enjoyable read and I am so honored the author trusted me with an ARC. I will be reading anything else he writes.

[Em Mabrouk · Rating 5 out of 5]

Awwww, Scott thank you for writing such a delightful book. These characters had me laughing, crying and swooning😂😭🥰

Another thing about this book is it was hallmark movie (🫑) that suddenly turned quite spicy 🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️

THIS BOOKS IS “HEATED RIVALRY”, “RED, WHITE AND ROYAL BLUE” meets academia in Scotland and I’m just not sure there is anything better. HAPPY READING🥲❤️

[Joan Hardwick · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a wonderful, refreshing love story! Two men, competing against each other, find true love. The author does an amazing job telling this story, one man from Texas, the other from Scotland, all while teaching us on historical details of Scotland! A MUST read!!!

[Stefanie Watson (Goodman) · Rating 4 out of 5]

A wonderful MLM romance about two unlikely men— one from Texas and one from Scotland —who fall in love during their time at university while competing against each other in class. The author does an exceptional job weaving in Scottish history in a way that naturally complements the academic setting. The characters are approachable and well developed throughout, making this an easy, quick, and thoroughly enjoyable read.

[Makayla Schenkel · Rating 5 out of 5]

A cute, very well-written romance that I think accurately portrays how past relationships can lead to difficulties in our new relationships, no matter how healthy they are. I also loved the focus on Scotland. The author provided such a great backdrop for this story through historical references, language, and culture. Does my next trip need to be to the Scottish highlands? Yes. Do I need my own coo? Also yes.

[Jarrod P · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have one problem with this book…it needed more cows!

All jokes aside, this book was everything I needed after one DNF and finishing a chunky boi. It was light, refreshing, cute, hilarious and steamy.

And throughout it all was a beautiful interweaving of Scottish history and tradition, something that if done differently could have turned me off of this book. But instead, it was a way to really show the passion and knowledge that Torin has and wanted to share while also giving us the full golden retriever energy of Beau.

Speaking of Torin and Beau, I mean, come on. How nerdy and adorable can two characters be! Both had me laughing, not only as they’re oblivious to each other, but also at how much they joke. Plus, ya know, the bedroom scenes were just well placed 🥵

Add to this the side characters, the pigeons, Freya, Maeve, all are top notch additions to this story. Giving brevity and friendly advice where needed without stealing the show.

A big thanks to Scott Good for the ARC! If you’re into hot Scottish and Texans with a good dose of Scottish history - and almost enough Highland Cows - then this is for you.

[Andy Cuff · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was such a delightful surprise. I thought the romance set in the world of academia was a very fresh premise, and loved that it spanned across the entire year. It was evident that the author put in a lot of thought on the Scottish history incorporation, which was a welcome inclusion. I usually don’t care for text messages to appear in a book, but they worked for this story and were used in an intentional way which I can respect. All in all, I look forward to keeping up with this author and thank you for letting me read an advanced copy! Also, bonus points for the food descriptions in this book. That is a craft all in its own!

[Andrew Adkins · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really enjoyable read, first book I’ve managed to complete in just 2 days! Was easy to fall in love with all the characters and clearly the writer had a real love for Scotland. Really enjoyed the beginning of each chapter having a Scottishism explained 😊 would 100% recommend

[Jesselyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

A sexy and fun read!! I hope there will be more!

[Brendon Newman · Rating 5 out of 5]

It’s impossible not to root for Beau and Torin, from their first interaction through all the ups and downs. Every character in this story is lovable and adds to the plot. I know of Scott’s (and Beau’s) love of cheesy holiday movies and their formula for success, so I had a good idea of how things may play out, yet still each day I couldn’t wait to get into a few more chapters and find out if Beau and Torin would finally open up to one another.

I can’t wait to buy copies to give out as presents and to have in my library at home. I’m very proud of my friend for writing his first book and for doing a great job writing a compelling story that I think everyone can enjoy. Scotland is now on the short list of vacation destinations for the 5 year plan.

Can’t wait to get drunk on ho ho ho-ly shit punch again!

[Amber Hess · Rating 5 out of 5]

I couldn't get enough. That's the easiest way to say it. There haven't been many books recently where I was so attached to the characters that I sacrifice sleep to read. This one did that. Beau and Torin were so unique and distinctly different from one another that it worked really well. They balanced each other in a way where you couldn't help but want them to be happy together.

Torin, our brilliant Scottish historian, is pursuing his PhD and wants to focus on his studies following a rough and unexpected breakup right before the term starts. Beau, a Texan who comes to Scotland to pursue his own interests in history, is incredibly lovable and for whatever reason hasn't had a lasting relationship since coming out. They are both incredibly academic in their own way and their nerdy sides show throughout the book.

When these two characters first meet, they have an instant attraction until some wrong assumptions on Torin's part create a really great "enemies-to-lovers" situation with yearning, forced proximity, and a well done slow burn. I found it easy to dislike Torin (as I feel was the author's intention) at the beginning and feel all the feels for both of them as the story progresses. The supporting characters - Maeve, Lucas, Juliana, and Freya - add a wonderful friend element and voices of reason for both Torin and Beau throughout the story.

I truly couldn't get enough of this book and will be ordering it as soon as possible for future rereads. :) Thank you to Scott K Good for the ARC copy.

[Rachael Hamilton · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Tartan Thesis by Scott Good was a fun, light hearted read. Set at a Scottish university, this academic rivals romance delivers great banter between Torin and Beau, and gives very Hallmark movie vibes.

I especially connected with Torin's character. Seeing him prepare for social interactions with scripts and safe topics felt incredibly relatable, and his frustration with office politics (being judged on more than just performance) hit home. People are scary!

I loved the Scottish slang with definitions at the start of each chapter. That was such a cute touch. You can also tell the author did his research. The Scottish history and culture are woven into the plot seamlessly.

If I'm being picky, there was a slight drag from about the halfway point to three quarters of the way in, but nothing that ruined the experience. Overall, this is a charming, low angst read I would recommend to anyone who likes rivals to lovers with a little cozy, cultural twist.

[Jenny Marshall · Rating 3 out of 5]

Review to come! 3.75 ⭐️

[Just_wanttoread · Rating 2 out of 5]

Advance copy received for review.

Ugh this one’s hard to review, mostly because I hate feeling mean but honestly it’s not great. I was generally enjoying myself for the first half of this, despite its issues. The writing flows along, the Scottish setting is wonderful and the little chapter headers are cute. But once you get past halfway it really stalls.
There is a good third of the book where nothing really happens, Torin and Beau just completely overthink their relationship and never actually talk to each other - something I think you can get away with in books about undergraduate students but these characters are 30! Then they finally manage to talk, realise how much they both want a relationship and then obviously break up the next day over something completely ridiculous which is just infuriating.

[Claire · Rating 5 out of 5]

Definitely check out The Tartan Thesis if you’re looking for your next beach read. I flew this through this one, and now I need a trip to Scotland immediately.

This is a dual POV romance, where Beau and Torin both pulled me in quickly despite their flaws. Maeve and Freya were fun side characters, without distracting from the main plot. I also appreciated that the author made the setting of Scotland a main character throughout. I love highland cows as much as Beau, and very much identified with his excitement.

If you enjoy Ali Hazelwood’s work for the intelligent characters and academic setting, The Tartan Thesis gives a similar vibe without being cut and paste.

Thank you to the author for the early copy!

[Ashlee Bell]

Enemies to lovers, nerdy MMCs, and dreamy settings! This book had it all ❤️. If you live for a slow burn, you'll love watching Torin and Beau navigate the cut throat (or is it?) world of academia and explore the Scottish Highlands as they learn to trust, and eventually love, each other. Thank you Scott K Good for my early reader edition!

[Jérémy Turbide-Chiasson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review of advance copy received from Author.

4.5 ★

I was touched by this beautiful MM romance between two rivals who end up in a heartfelt relationship.

I was delighted to learn about Scottish history and the Scottish language, all whilst witnessing a beautiful love story.

I would be very keen to find out more about what happens next in the story between Beau and Torin.

[Pages & Pasties · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had the privilege of receiving an ARC of The Tartan Thesis, an academic rom-com set against a Scottish backdrop.

It starts, as all good disasters do, with a man who simply cannot help himself.

Torin Ramsay is brilliant, exacting, and completely incapable of letting an inaccuracy pass uncorrected. The kind of man who will fix your argument in real time and then go home and improve it again in his head. You understand him. You wince for him. You want to shake him and tell him to stop being such a defensive wee hedgehog.

There’s a real understanding here of how ambition can sharpen into something isolating. How intelligence can become armour. How being right can cost you connection.

Then there’s Beau, with his howdy, his charm, and his frankly unfair level of attractiveness. Girls will love him, guys will want to be him; he is, from the outset, undeniable book boyfriend material. And Torin—whether he likes it or not—can’t quite stop noticing him.

The representation of Beau’s ADHD is one of the most natural portrayals I’ve read. Paired with Torin’s anxiety, it creates a dynamic that feels real. The novel doesn’t overstate either; it simply lets those patterns exist, sensitively depicting two people with different instincts as they move through the world.

But what elevates this story beyond a standard rivals-to-lovers romance is its intelligence. This book trusts its readers. It doesn’t rush past the history to get back to the romance—it lets the history inform the romance. And it’s superbly done.

The tension builds exactly as it should: through friction, through competition, through sneaky eye contact and not nearly enough honesty.

And then the story widens.

Once outside the lecture halls, Beau and Torin explore the Highlands itself, and it’s here that we learn that Torin’s connection to Scotland’s history is personal. Having recently been to Glencoe myself, read the memorial, and felt the quiet weight of the landscape, I found this section especially moving. I cried. Beau’s response is equally important, creating space for Torin to articulate something that is clearly difficult to express. That shift marks a turning point in their relationship.

By the time the romance between Torin and Beau tips into something physical, it feels like the natural culmination of everything that’s been building. If you like a bit of heat, you will be well catered for. It’s hot, sexy, and definitely worth the wait.

My girlfriend, who I’m increasingly convinced might actually be in love with Beau (he’s taken, chick!), informed me—far too gleefully—that following Torin and Freya’s lead, she’s started her own version of The List.

I have concerns.

Not least because I am now, apparently, being measured against a fictional blond-haired, blue-eyed, bronzed Texan with enviable abs! I am none of these things.

But.

I do surf.

Surely that earns me at least a few points on this list? Can Beau surf? Has Beau ever wrestled a Cornish wave in December and lived to tell the tale? I think not.

So yes, there has been some… spirited discussion regarding inclusion criteria.

I blame the author entirely.

But I’d happily read anything he writes next.

The Tartan Thesis is a heartwarming, deftly woven slow-burn romance, my favourite kind. It’s about insecurity. About belonging. It will make you think, make you laugh, and—if you’re not careful—make you want to hug a Highland coo.

I loved it.

[Lucy Larsen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I would first like to thank the author for providing me with a copy of this eARC in exchange for an honest review.

I saw this book pop up in my FYP as I was scrolling one day and was so intrigued by the description that I couldn’t help but put in an ARC request. I was certainly not disappointed by this story. I had a hard time putting it down. I fell in love with both Beau and Torin right from the first two chapters. They were both interesting and developed characters with their own stories going on. As the story developed, they found ways for their own individual stories to merge into one story, and I think that is what I found so cute and amazing about their relationship.

I’ve also never seen such great communication from a couple in a romance novel for a while. They were both very good at communicating with each other, especially after something would go wrong. They showed this back when they were first rivals and then that communication only grew and got better as their relationship developed. There were obviously hitches, but overall, I absolutely loved their communication. I also feel like, as a history nerd, I learned so much about the history of a country I don’t know much about while reading a fun romance novel and so I absolutely loved that part as well. The spicy level was a level 5.

Overall, I would rate this book a 5 out of 5. I definitely want to buy a physical copy of this one and add to my lending library.

[Jillian Morstad · Rating 5 out of 5]

Scott Good's debut novel completely pulled me in. The main characters, Beau and Torin, feel real in a way that sneaks up on you and by the end, you don’t just know them, you understand them. The supporting cast especially stood out. We all have a Maeve, a Freya, a juliana, and a Lucas in our lives, which made everything feel so grounded and relatable.

The setting was a huge highlight. Scotland felt alive on every page, and you can tell how much the author loves it. It’s not just a backdrop, but a part of the story. The chapter titles were thoughtful and clever. *adds Scotland as a place to visit*

If you're a romance lover, you'll appreciate the tension and softness. The buildup is perfect, and the author really understands that intimacy isn’t just about big moments. It’s in the small things. Lines like “I grin into the next kiss” shouldn’t feel like much, but they do. They feel intentional and real and honestly… kind of sexy AF in the best way. I loved Beau's southern charm and Torin's ambition.

I also really loved how this was written as a queer romance that just exists. It’s not over-explained or framed as “different." It’s simply a love story between two people, given the same weight and care as any other romance.

I was hooked and invested from start to finish. I loved Beau and Torin... and Chewin McGregor and Hairy Styles gave me life.

[Brittney Spence · Rating 4 out of 5]

*Review of advanced copy received by author*

My first ARC read and my first MLM read! This was a sweet and cozy story that made me REALLY want to visit Scotland. *spoilers ahead*

I do enjoy an academic setting in a romance, and 2 scholars studying for PhDs in Scotland was a unique storyline I haven’t come across before. There were some moments near the beginning of the book where the history lesson portions dragged a bit for me (I’m not usually a fan of history nor do I typically read historical fictions) but as I got further into the book the author did a great job of weaving the historical pieces into the storyline.

I was a fan of Beau’s character from the jump, but admittedly a bit back and forth with Torin’s character. His sister Freya, however? I want to be friends with her for sure! All of the scenes with their journey to Inverness were my absolute favorite and had me swooning. I will say I’m not usually a fan of the miscommunication trope and didn’t fully agree with it being the major conflict for two grown intelligent men, but the love confessionals definitely did me in. I ate that right up!

Overall, this was a cute and fun read that I did enjoy! I look forward to seeing what else this author may have in store for us!

[Leila · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely LOVE this book! Equal parts RomCom, love letter to Scotland, history cultural and Gaelic lesson, and *warm fuzzy* giver. 

When I wasn’t laughing or learning or smirking I was “I’m not crying you’re crying”. This is a literary emotive bounce-house and I’m so here for it! 

Touching on the nuances and intricacies of an enemies to friends to lovers dynamic, I was along not only for the (beautiful) ride navigating the characters’ communication winding roads, but the descriptive scenic ones through the Highlands. 

Loved and related to the juxtaposition of sexual objectivity and sapiosexuality; how the characters traversed both was skillfully done for a freshman writer, especially in the MM Romance niche genre. 

Though let’s be honest…you came for the magical location, the love story, and the happily ever after (plus all the spicy in between), but you stayed for the coos! Chewin McGregor is still my fav, cuz c’mon if you aren’t obsessed w/Highland cows what are you even doing with your life?!

10/10 would recommend as a beach read, bed read, plane read, comfy chair read, anywhere anytime read, and re-read! Enjoy!

[Rachel Mia · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book captured me right from the meet cute and I loved each and every character. This is a story about friendship, finding love, and putting yourself out there. But even more importantly, it is about finding the strength and assurance within yourself to be loved. I think we all have those self-deprecating thoughts and ideas about ourselves that we let get in the way of happiness, and Torin and Beau are a true testament that the right person will help you overcome those foolish musings.

The story being set in Scotland was icing on the cake, bringing in incredible aspects of history that I had never known before. The author's love of the country was apparent while reading and that brought another dimension of giddy awe to the storyline. He made sure that Scotland got it's own love story and admiration from the reader. I want to go to Inverness for Christmas now and pet a shaggy coo!

If you need me, I'll be thinking of Beau and Torin along the Bonnie, Bonnie Banks o' Loch Lomond!

[Brooke East · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m not a big reader at all—but The Tartan Thesis completely sucked me in. Like, I actually binge read it because I couldn’t put it down, which never happens for me.

The story just flows. The pacing is on point, and the characters are written in a way that makes you genuinely care what happens and you start to feel like you actually know the characters. The connection between them feels real and layered, and the tension keeps building in the best way.

And yes—it’s spicy. But not in an over-the-top, pointless way. It actually adds to the story and the chemistry, which makes it way more enjoyable to read.

What got me the most is how invested I became. I was fully into it and needed to know how it all played out. ohhh and the cows!

Now my only problem is trying to find something else to read that’s just as good to keep my attention—which honestly says everything.

If you’re even thinking about reading it, just do it. It surprised me in the best way.

[Evan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book. I'm always down for a good MM romance, and needed something NOT sports related after my MM athlete romance binge.

The characters are great. Love the way the author writes them, their mannerisms, expressions, etc. Helped me get a real picture in my head.

The side characters were great as well. Normally the friends/sidekicks are kind of obnoxious. But these felt like real, natural friend and family and relationships.

The breakout star of the book is Scotland. I enjoyed all of the Scottish history. The way it was written was fun, but I learned a lot without it feeling boring like a textbook.

Would definitely read again, and excited what the author write in the future.

[Zac Barger · Rating 3 out of 5]

There was a lot to enjoy in this book, and for a first novel, it certainly succeeds in many wonderful ways.

The first three fourths of this are pretty lovely, in spite of some odd issues with pacing. But, as happens with the genre, there must always be a last minute derailment, which I didn’t find to be executed in a compelling way.

Torin, our Scottish scholastic lead, has his good moments, but is often… difficult, to put it lightly. His actions in the final act of the story really didn’t feel real.

Overall, I enjoyed this—particularly the scenes with just Torin and Beau falling for each other, plus those with Torin’s lovely family. And who doesn’t love a fluffy coo?

Advanced reader copy review.

[Mason Carter · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to the author for letting me read this one early! I really enjoyed this read! The characters were compelling and the book read like a love letter to Scotland. While it stuck pretty close to what you would expect from your typical mm romance, the history laced throughout was refreshing and compelling. I think it fell a little flat for me because Beau was a little too perfect, but I’ve read so many of these sweet/spicy books that I am inevitably bogged down by unrealistically perfect main characters. Overall, this was an enjoyable read and I appreciate the author’s restraint when it comes to spice. When they give it all up in the first quarter of the book it leaves little else to be desired. Thanks again Scott! I can’t wait to read what comes next!

[Taylor Beaty · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm not usually one for the Romance genre, but I can say without a doubt I thoroughly enjoyed this book. From the beginning, the conversations between characters felt extremely genuine, almost as if they were taking place between my own friend group. I found myself laughing out loud and suffering second hand embarrassment (you'll know when you get to it) right along with the characters. Additionally, as a self proclaimed history buff, I found the history related portions about Scotland especially interesting. Torin was teaching me at the same time he was teaching Beau.

10/10 definitely recommend!

[Jason Ashmore · Rating 5 out of 5]

There are three characters in this novel: Torin, Beau and Scotland!

Scott Good has created a wonderful storyline and characters that are incredibly realistic. The development of the storyline and characters has been fantastic this far. Having read the synopsis, I knew what to expect, but the reality has been better, I've found it areal page-turner, not wanting to put it down. This is one romance novel that I'll highly recommend to anyone, even those that dislike the genre!

The relationship ending argument/slip-up, the forced-turned-real collegialty, the "resolution"... I really did want to grab the two men and shake some sense into them... I also recognised aspects of myself in them, both good and bad!

Oh, and I can't forget the spice... Very well written scenes, with believable details, but nothing seriously gratuitous! 🌶🌶🌶🌶

I'll definitely be searching for more works authored by Scott Good, and wish to tell the author "give me more Tor/Beau, please!"

12/10