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Breakaway #2
Playing Defense
JACKSON ANDERSON
He's always been the responsible one. The reliable one. The guy who doesn't screw up—until her. Maya is his sister's best friend and the one woman he should never touch. She's wild, unpredictable, and exactly what he never knew he needed. Now he's lying to his own family just to keep her close.
MAYA RIVERA
She's drowning, and has been for months. Falling into bed with Jackson wasn't smart, but it was the best decision she's ever made. He's steady where she's messy, quiet where she's loud. What started as an arrangement to help her heal turned serious fast, and now she's hiding the one good thing in her life from the person who's always been her safe place.
Falling for each other was never part of the plan.
But neither was playing defense with their hearts on the line.
He's always been the responsible one. The reliable one. The guy who doesn't screw up—until her. Maya is his sister's best friend and the one woman he should never touch. She's wild, unpredictable, and exactly what he never knew he needed. Now he's lying to his own family just to keep her close.
MAYA RIVERA
She's drowning, and has been for months. Falling into bed with Jackson wasn't smart, but it was the best decision she's ever made. He's steady where she's messy, quiet where she's loud. What started as an arrangement to help her heal turned serious fast, and now she's hiding the one good thing in her life from the person who's always been her safe place.
Falling for each other was never part of the plan.
But neither was playing defense with their hearts on the line.
368 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 3, 2026
71 people are currently reading
604 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 96 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
★ ★ ★.75
This story is heavy, but it’s also about hope. About choosing yourself. About finding people who see you are your worst and love you anyway.
Maya has been in love with her best friend’s brother for seven years. She always thought she was invisible to him, just his sister’s friend and nothing more. Never wanted, never an option. And when everything in her life starts falling apart all at once, he’s the one she runs to, because he’s always been her safe place.
Jackson has been in love with Maya for just as long. Quietly. Patiently. He’s the kind of man who shows up without being asked, who notices when something’s wrong even when she tries to hide it. He never pushes, never rushes her, he just stays. Protecting her in his own steady way, even when she thinks she doesn’t deserve it.
Their story is soft but painful in places, and it really hit emotionally.
Emma’s reaction when she found out about them felt a bit too dramatic. I loved her book, but she felt off in this one, almost like a different person. I also couldn’t understand how she never noticed Maya’s suffering, especially when even Tyler (and he’s an asshole) picked up on it almost immediately. That part didn’t sit right with me.
Some moments were a little repetitive and pulled me out of the story at times, but overall, it was still an emotional read that stayed with me.
This story is heavy, but it’s also about hope. About choosing yourself. About finding people who see you are your worst and love you anyway.
Maya has been in love with her best friend’s brother for seven years. She always thought she was invisible to him, just his sister’s friend and nothing more. Never wanted, never an option. And when everything in her life starts falling apart all at once, he’s the one she runs to, because he’s always been her safe place.
"Maya Rivera." His voice carries in the empty arena, bouncing off the high ceiling. "You're my Stardust. My light. The person who makes me believe in things I thought I'd lost forever."
Jackson has been in love with Maya for just as long. Quietly. Patiently. He’s the kind of man who shows up without being asked, who notices when something’s wrong even when she tries to hide it. He never pushes, never rushes her, he just stays. Protecting her in his own steady way, even when she thinks she doesn’t deserve it.
Their story is soft but painful in places, and it really hit emotionally.
Emma’s reaction when she found out about them felt a bit too dramatic. I loved her book, but she felt off in this one, almost like a different person. I also couldn’t understand how she never noticed Maya’s suffering, especially when even Tyler (and he’s an asshole) picked up on it almost immediately. That part didn’t sit right with me.
Some moments were a little repetitive and pulled me out of the story at times, but overall, it was still an emotional read that stayed with me.
January 1, 2026
Had the pleasure of arc reading this book and enjoyed it
Please note the triggers are quite intense and definitely need to be known before you start I don’t normally worry about anything bothering me when I read a book as books are fiction but this was quite a shock straight away with the main storyline so if you take away anything from this check the trigger warnings before you start.
This book was written beautifully and Clara captured the intensity of what had happens to maya perfectly it’s the first book in a long time that has made me cry! Maya has struggled so much since the many events happen to her and let’s Jackson in to help her
Jackson is EVERYTHING he was my favourite part of this book hands down everyone needs a Jackson in their life and on their team.
Only thing I didn’t like was how Emma took the news when she found out about them. Emma came across as selfish with how she reacted considering she had also just found out what had happened to maya she was extremely harsh on her. Yes she was shocked to find out her brother and best friend were together but that shouldn’t have been the thing that upset her it should have been the SA. Emma found out in a way which yeah was bad she found out on the news and had just had a baby ( premature) but she was very harsh on maya and I did feel bad for her.
Being a nurse myself and knowing how harsh any loss of a patient can be hard on you I could understand maya feeling like it’s her fault when she lost lily the 6 year old this all takes place prior to the story but it shows how it effected her. I work in adult nursing and I couldn’t work with kids for reasons like that it would break me if I lost one. This was portrayed beautifully by Clara on how it affects people.
All in all I loved this book and the characters more than I did with book 1 so I’m looking forward to what comes next
Please note the triggers are quite intense and definitely need to be known before you start I don’t normally worry about anything bothering me when I read a book as books are fiction but this was quite a shock straight away with the main storyline so if you take away anything from this check the trigger warnings before you start.
This book was written beautifully and Clara captured the intensity of what had happens to maya perfectly it’s the first book in a long time that has made me cry! Maya has struggled so much since the many events happen to her and let’s Jackson in to help her
Jackson is EVERYTHING he was my favourite part of this book hands down everyone needs a Jackson in their life and on their team.
Only thing I didn’t like was how Emma took the news when she found out about them. Emma came across as selfish with how she reacted considering she had also just found out what had happened to maya she was extremely harsh on her. Yes she was shocked to find out her brother and best friend were together but that shouldn’t have been the thing that upset her it should have been the SA. Emma found out in a way which yeah was bad she found out on the news and had just had a baby ( premature) but she was very harsh on maya and I did feel bad for her.
Being a nurse myself and knowing how harsh any loss of a patient can be hard on you I could understand maya feeling like it’s her fault when she lost lily the 6 year old this all takes place prior to the story but it shows how it effected her. I work in adult nursing and I couldn’t work with kids for reasons like that it would break me if I lost one. This was portrayed beautifully by Clara on how it affects people.
All in all I loved this book and the characters more than I did with book 1 so I’m looking forward to what comes next
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 14, 2026
ARC Review This follows Maya after she has some significant trauma happened at her job that costs her both her confidence and her job as a nurse. Needing a reset, she moves in with her best friend which means living under the same roof as Jackson her best friend's brother and the man she's loved for years.
The forced proximity and best friend's brother trope absolutely delivered for me.The boundaries between Maya and Jackson slowly start to blur as they try (and fail) to keep their feelings contained especially while hiding everything from Emma. I completely adored Jackson. His patience and care toward Maya, especially with her mental health struggles, was such a strong part of this story.
That said, the build up around telling Emma the sister and best friend dragged on, and when it finally happened, her reaction annoyed me a little (just my personal opinion).
Overall, I did enjoy this read!
The forced proximity and best friend's brother trope absolutely delivered for me.The boundaries between Maya and Jackson slowly start to blur as they try (and fail) to keep their feelings contained especially while hiding everything from Emma. I completely adored Jackson. His patience and care toward Maya, especially with her mental health struggles, was such a strong part of this story.
That said, the build up around telling Emma the sister and best friend dragged on, and when it finally happened, her reaction annoyed me a little (just my personal opinion).
Overall, I did enjoy this read!
Review of advance copy received from Autor
Thanks Clara for the ARC
I really appreciate the way they author talk about topics so hard to navigate like SH and SA. I love to end the book with the hope that everything will be alright
Bonus points, this book sounds like FIAMORE by LIT killahin my mind.
I really appreciate the way they author talk about topics so hard to navigate like SH and SA. I love to end the book with the hope that everything will be alright
Bonus points, this book sounds like FIAMORE by LIT killahin my mind.
January 1, 2026
I do not typically enjoy hockey romances but I loved this one and how authentic everything felt to me from the events to the characters and everything they went through. Thank you Clara for allowing me to read this ARC I don’t regret it. Jackson and Maya are a beautiful couple and I felt as though I was experiencing every event and emotion right beside them. While I can’t imagine or relate completely to what Maya went through it was presented with such empathy and care that I understood. I was hooked from beginning to end and would definitely recommend! Can’t wait to see what Clara St. James writes next!
February 2, 2026
Thank you for the e-arc🫶🏼
4,25⭐️
2🌶️
This is the second book in the breakaway series, and I really liked this one!
Jackson Anderson… is the most understanding, sweetest mmc. The way he treated Maya?😭
I loved how he just was there, he knew something was wrong and he just was there for her.
Maya Rivera.. I just wanted to hug her. Her story line was written so well, the trauma it was a lot. But in my opinion just right. How she acted, how she was, how she pretended everything was fine and then broke down when she was alone.
The plot?
It was really good, I liked this one more than the first book (sorry), but just the raw pain Maya was experiencing? You could feel it.
I love the nickname stardust and that he gave her a bracelet with a star?😭
The story how she packs up her life and just goes to the only place she knows? To her best friend’s house, to Emma. And unfortunately for Maya, Emma’s brother Jackson is also staying there.
I would have loved if we knew a little more on why he was living with them? Like I get that he helped out with Ethan. But still he could have had his own place and just come over when needed. But I guess for the storyline it made sense.
The way Jackson knew… from the second he saw her??? That she wasn’t shining as brightly🥹 I liked that he actually read her journal and didn’t confront her and instead did some research.
The scene when he finds her? In the bathroom? Lord…
That he let her “use” him to reclaim the control? That it all was on her own terms? Perfect, really!!
Overall this book was very good, and for some part very healing, (can be of course triggering).
We get some Chase and Emma moments too from the first book since they are staying at their house. And here is one tiny thing that annoyed me.
Emma and Maya have been best friends for years, Maya lived with them when her mom died and then Maya and Emma lived together before Emma got together with Chase. And in the first book and now, there is an understanding between them when to push on a matter or to let it go for now. I don’t understand how Emma did ignore it or I don’t know didn’t notice? That Maya was struggling? I mean she, as her best friend should have seen how she was not eating, sleeping, looked tired, her panic attacks, that she just showed up, getting fired.
I get to give someone space but after a while or even after mayas panic attacks Emma should have figured it out and or talked with her seriously.
But instead Emma finds out last, and gets mad because she also then finds out about her and Jackson.
She noticed how those two gravitated towards each other but couldn’t notice something was really wrong?
And after? When she got pissy? I get that to an extent but she should have understood, and been happy that Jackson was there to help her thru it since she didn’t notice and know.
I didn’t really like her reaction, I thought she would have been happy and maybe even tell her that she figured something was going on. But🤷🏻♀️
Overall I really liked this book. And can’t wait for the third one.
Will Donny maybe get a book… who knows
4,25⭐️
2🌶️
This is the second book in the breakaway series, and I really liked this one!
Jackson Anderson… is the most understanding, sweetest mmc. The way he treated Maya?😭
I loved how he just was there, he knew something was wrong and he just was there for her.
Maya Rivera.. I just wanted to hug her. Her story line was written so well, the trauma it was a lot. But in my opinion just right. How she acted, how she was, how she pretended everything was fine and then broke down when she was alone.
The plot?
It was really good, I liked this one more than the first book (sorry), but just the raw pain Maya was experiencing? You could feel it.
I love the nickname stardust and that he gave her a bracelet with a star?😭
The story how she packs up her life and just goes to the only place she knows? To her best friend’s house, to Emma. And unfortunately for Maya, Emma’s brother Jackson is also staying there.
I would have loved if we knew a little more on why he was living with them? Like I get that he helped out with Ethan. But still he could have had his own place and just come over when needed. But I guess for the storyline it made sense.
The way Jackson knew… from the second he saw her??? That she wasn’t shining as brightly🥹 I liked that he actually read her journal and didn’t confront her and instead did some research.
The scene when he finds her? In the bathroom? Lord…
That he let her “use” him to reclaim the control? That it all was on her own terms? Perfect, really!!
Overall this book was very good, and for some part very healing, (can be of course triggering).
We get some Chase and Emma moments too from the first book since they are staying at their house. And here is one tiny thing that annoyed me.
Emma and Maya have been best friends for years, Maya lived with them when her mom died and then Maya and Emma lived together before Emma got together with Chase. And in the first book and now, there is an understanding between them when to push on a matter or to let it go for now. I don’t understand how Emma did ignore it or I don’t know didn’t notice? That Maya was struggling? I mean she, as her best friend should have seen how she was not eating, sleeping, looked tired, her panic attacks, that she just showed up, getting fired.
I get to give someone space but after a while or even after mayas panic attacks Emma should have figured it out and or talked with her seriously.
But instead Emma finds out last, and gets mad because she also then finds out about her and Jackson.
She noticed how those two gravitated towards each other but couldn’t notice something was really wrong?
And after? When she got pissy? I get that to an extent but she should have understood, and been happy that Jackson was there to help her thru it since she didn’t notice and know.
I didn’t really like her reaction, I thought she would have been happy and maybe even tell her that she figured something was going on. But🤷🏻♀️
Overall I really liked this book. And can’t wait for the third one.
Will Donny maybe get a book… who knows
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Review of advanced copy received from author
⚠️ PLEASE read the TW's before reading this book.
THIS BOOK was the end of me. That's how good it was. Jackson Anderson 😍 THAT MAN is a whole forest of green flags. From the nicknames(Stardust, Ice Capades) to the loving each other since she was 18 but not going ahead with it (not wanting to upset his sister, her best friend) to him helping her through her trauma when she completely gave up on herself, being patient with her, checking in on her, and standing up for her (even if it did land him in a load of trouble), to the friends with benefits arrangement which turned to the f- it moment and the rules they made being disregarded when they made things official. Jackson saying the sweetest things but then having the dirtiest mouth, and easily submitting to his woman, letting her have full control.
But they made it through in the end after all the chaos, with Maya becoming the nurse she already was and was meant to be from the start, and then having a lot of clearing up to do with Emma when she found out about Maya's secret relationship with Jackson, and Jackson finally having the girl he's been in love with since she was 18 (and he was 23).
And Max , the judgy black cat, being there for whoever needed him most, aka. Maya (love that cat 🐈⬛❤️).
I LOVED it all and wish I could read it for the first time all over again 🥰
Bonus moments:
- Jackson is a consent king 👑
- He's the best uncle
- Taught his Stardust to skate
- Hockey jersey spicy moment turned into a "crawl to me" moment 🥵🥵 (swear Clara was trying to 💀 me with this scene 😂)
- balcony scene 😏😍 (and this one too ! 😂)
- coffee not counting as food (iykyk, such a me thing to do)
⚠️ PLEASE read the TW's before reading this book.
THIS BOOK was the end of me. That's how good it was. Jackson Anderson 😍 THAT MAN is a whole forest of green flags. From the nicknames(Stardust, Ice Capades) to the loving each other since she was 18 but not going ahead with it (not wanting to upset his sister, her best friend) to him helping her through her trauma when she completely gave up on herself, being patient with her, checking in on her, and standing up for her (even if it did land him in a load of trouble), to the friends with benefits arrangement which turned to the f- it moment and the rules they made being disregarded when they made things official. Jackson saying the sweetest things but then having the dirtiest mouth, and easily submitting to his woman, letting her have full control.
But they made it through in the end after all the chaos, with Maya becoming the nurse she already was and was meant to be from the start, and then having a lot of clearing up to do with Emma when she found out about Maya's secret relationship with Jackson, and Jackson finally having the girl he's been in love with since she was 18 (and he was 23).
And Max , the judgy black cat, being there for whoever needed him most, aka. Maya (love that cat 🐈⬛❤️).
I LOVED it all and wish I could read it for the first time all over again 🥰
Bonus moments:
- Jackson is a consent king 👑
- He's the best uncle
- Taught his Stardust to skate
- Hockey jersey spicy moment turned into a "crawl to me" moment 🥵🥵 (swear Clara was trying to 💀 me with this scene 😂)
- balcony scene 😏😍 (and this one too ! 😂)
- coffee not counting as food (iykyk, such a me thing to do)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 20, 2026
Playing Defence was not a light read and it wasn’t meant to be. Maya is hurting in a way that seeps into every page. She’s broken, raw, and trying to survive, and the writing makes you feel every crack. My heart ached for her the entire time.
Jackson is a sweetheart, truly. But his fatal flaw is wanting to fix her, and some wounds just aren’t meant to be healed by love alone.
Give me the tragic love stories.
Give me the push and pull.
Give me hockey and emotional damage.
✨ Best friend’s brother
✨ Hockey romance
✨ Angst, heartbreak, and longing
⚠️ Trigger Warning: This book contains self-harm and mentions of sexual assault. Please take care while reading.
This one sits heavy… and lingers.
Jackson is a sweetheart, truly. But his fatal flaw is wanting to fix her, and some wounds just aren’t meant to be healed by love alone.
Give me the tragic love stories.
Give me the push and pull.
Give me hockey and emotional damage.
✨ Best friend’s brother
✨ Hockey romance
✨ Angst, heartbreak, and longing
⚠️ Trigger Warning: This book contains self-harm and mentions of sexual assault. Please take care while reading.
This one sits heavy… and lingers.
January 15, 2026
⁺₊✧₊‧.°.⋆✮ ARC review!!
rating: 3.5⭐️
I was selected to read Playing defense in advance, and I couldn't be happier! In this book, we learn the story of Maya and Jackson, who have known each other their whole lives and have always been in love with each other.
I really enjoyed this story, I suffered so much for Maya and my heart broke knowing everything she had to go through. The way Jackson is the only one who understands her and how he supports and loves her, I adore this man. The fact that they've been in love with each other forever and haven't told each other has frustrated me in the best way possible, and I melted reading every moment between them. The way Jackson helps Maya climb out of her hole and move forward with her trauma really touched my heart.
I wasn't convinced by the fact that they kept it a secret for so long, they were afraid Emma would find out, but I thought it was too exaggerated and how they kept putting it off really annoyed me! The ending felt a bit long to me and I think Jackson screwed up by doing what he did, al thought I understand him in a away.
Despite that, I really liked how their story ended, I finished the book with a big smile in my mouth.
I'm too curious to know who will be the protagonists of the next book 🤭🤭🤭
Thank you for letting me read this ARC!! 🫶🏻
rating: 3.5⭐️
I was selected to read Playing defense in advance, and I couldn't be happier! In this book, we learn the story of Maya and Jackson, who have known each other their whole lives and have always been in love with each other.
I really enjoyed this story, I suffered so much for Maya and my heart broke knowing everything she had to go through. The way Jackson is the only one who understands her and how he supports and loves her, I adore this man. The fact that they've been in love with each other forever and haven't told each other has frustrated me in the best way possible, and I melted reading every moment between them. The way Jackson helps Maya climb out of her hole and move forward with her trauma really touched my heart.
I wasn't convinced by the fact that they kept it a secret for so long, they were afraid Emma would find out, but I thought it was too exaggerated and how they kept putting it off really annoyed me! The ending felt a bit long to me and I think Jackson screwed up by doing what he did, al thought I understand him in a away.
Despite that, I really liked how their story ended, I finished the book with a big smile in my mouth.
I'm too curious to know who will be the protagonists of the next book 🤭🤭🤭
Thank you for letting me read this ARC!! 🫶🏻
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you so much to Clara St. James for allowing me to ARC read Playing Defense! Maya and Jackson's story was a beautiful, emotional ride that I couldn't help but love. It's a hockey, best friend’s brother romance with adorable nicknames and gut-wrenching mental health rep to top it off. What's not to love? HEAVILY enjoyed! 5 stars! 💫
Can we talk about how unbelievably adorable Maya and Jackson are??? They're genuinely so cute, and one of the most perfect for one another book couples that I have ever had the pleasure of reading. They communicated so well, and don't even get me started on the nicknames they have for one another! Swoon!!!
I'm going to take a moment to appreciate how well done Maya's mental health journey was represented. As someone who can relate to Maya in a way, it was hard-hitting and emotional in the very best way. I was sooo close to crying, and it's important to get that representation into the media even if it may be hard to consume.
Can we talk about how unbelievably adorable Maya and Jackson are??? They're genuinely so cute, and one of the most perfect for one another book couples that I have ever had the pleasure of reading. They communicated so well, and don't even get me started on the nicknames they have for one another! Swoon!!!
I'm going to take a moment to appreciate how well done Maya's mental health journey was represented. As someone who can relate to Maya in a way, it was hard-hitting and emotional in the very best way. I was sooo close to crying, and it's important to get that representation into the media even if it may be hard to consume.
February 16, 2026
I loved Jackson and Maya. Jackson was the perfect person Maya needed after dealing with significant trauma. I loved him getting her therapy and allowing her to use him 😈😏. I loved when Jackson gave his necklace to her and what it represented to him 🥰. I loved how mental health was represented in this book. The author did a great job with showing the trauma after SA, suicidal ideation and how trauma can affect someone. This was a NTMA and I can’t wait to read more from her
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 9, 2026
ARC REVIEW
The first book in this series was lengthy, and in an effort to make this one shorter, it felt like too many important moments were cut. The result was a story that somehow felt both rushed and empty at the same time.
Maya’s mental and emotional journey needed much more depth. Her friendship with Emma didn’t feel true to what we already know of them. After everything that happened with Tyler, it was hard to believe that Emma wouldn’t immediately clock that something was wrong or push Maya to open up. Even pregnant, Emma is the woman who tamed Chase—she absolutely could’ve gotten through to her. Skimming over that undermined their relationship.
Jackson and Maya’s romance also felt skipped. We jumped over key emotional moments, yet still landed on scenes that were meant to be impactful without the buildup to support them. Important development happened off-page, which made it hard to fully connect to their relationship.
I was genuinely excited for this couple, which makes this disappointing to say, but this book needed more depth and space to breathe for their story to truly land.
The first book in this series was lengthy, and in an effort to make this one shorter, it felt like too many important moments were cut. The result was a story that somehow felt both rushed and empty at the same time.
Maya’s mental and emotional journey needed much more depth. Her friendship with Emma didn’t feel true to what we already know of them. After everything that happened with Tyler, it was hard to believe that Emma wouldn’t immediately clock that something was wrong or push Maya to open up. Even pregnant, Emma is the woman who tamed Chase—she absolutely could’ve gotten through to her. Skimming over that undermined their relationship.
Jackson and Maya’s romance also felt skipped. We jumped over key emotional moments, yet still landed on scenes that were meant to be impactful without the buildup to support them. Important development happened off-page, which made it hard to fully connect to their relationship.
I was genuinely excited for this couple, which makes this disappointing to say, but this book needed more depth and space to breathe for their story to truly land.
February 8, 2026
I love it so much! It hit home a tiny bit with past trauma. My heart ached so bad for Maya, but I enjoyed seeing her journey. I cried sad tears and happy tears through out.
December 27, 2025
Another beautifully written book by this author, and I am so glad I sacrificed sleep to ARC read this. Writing? Amazing as usual. Punchy when it's necessary, but also serious when it's needed. The spicy scenes? 5/5.
As for the characters; Jackson Anderson? Number one book boyfriend. Forget everyone else, this man is where it's at. This man, respectful of his surroundings, knows his boundaries (he has one moment where he crashes out for the lack of a better term, but who wouldn't, I don't blame him), AND HE EVEN CRAWLS TO HIS WOMAN! DOES YOUR MMC DO THAT?! I DONT THINK SO!
Maya Rivera; a true warrioress at heart. It's been amazing reading through how she took back everything she thought lost. Her body, her job, and in the end, she even claims the man she's been in love with since she was eighteen.
All in all, it's an amazing book full of spice, drama, love, AND OH MY GOD JUST READ IT READ THE ENTIRE SERIES!
To the author, thank you for writing this, thank you for including your struggles in some of Maya's personality, you're also a warrioress, keep on going!
As for the characters; Jackson Anderson? Number one book boyfriend. Forget everyone else, this man is where it's at. This man, respectful of his surroundings, knows his boundaries (he has one moment where he crashes out for the lack of a better term, but who wouldn't, I don't blame him), AND HE EVEN CRAWLS TO HIS WOMAN! DOES YOUR MMC DO THAT?! I DONT THINK SO!
Maya Rivera; a true warrioress at heart. It's been amazing reading through how she took back everything she thought lost. Her body, her job, and in the end, she even claims the man she's been in love with since she was eighteen.
All in all, it's an amazing book full of spice, drama, love, AND OH MY GOD JUST READ IT READ THE ENTIRE SERIES!
To the author, thank you for writing this, thank you for including your struggles in some of Maya's personality, you're also a warrioress, keep on going!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
PLAYING DEFENSE by CLARA St. James ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Playing Defense is the second (#2) book in the ‘BREAKAWAY’ series
Reeling after a devastating event that cost her everything Maya Rivera has escaped to the one place she feels safe, her best friends house. Unaware that Jackson Anderson, her best friend’s brother and the man she’s craved for years, is also staying there, Maya holds her struggle inside determined to start anew.
Jackson instantly knows Maya is hiding a secret. This vivacious woman, who lights up the darkest night is hiding something, something that is slowly draining her spark. Vowing to do everything in his power to help her, and as they spend more time together so their relationship grows….
—————————————
** PLEASE CHECK TRIGGER WARNINGS BEFORE STARTING THIS BOOK**
The first thing I’m going to say about this book is make sure you have a box of tissues on hand as this story will tug on every single emotion you possess and then some.
This book was the first by Clara St.James I have read and I went straight to order book one (#1) in the series as I enjoyed it so much. I say enjoyed, but that’s not quite the right word. At times, as we learn about Maya’s journey, it is quite a harrowing read. It deals with emotive subjects such as SA, self harm and premature birth. However the author deals with these subjects in such a sensitive, informative and thoughtful manner with the belief of hope in the future.
I adored Jackson’s character, he was so supportive, patient and giving to Maya, always putting her needs first and though he makes a terrible error, he makes it for all the right reasons, realises his mistake and works hard to correct it.
Maya, though going through extremely traumatic experiences, is determined and open to healing and moving forward and her character just shone. I was so glad that the pair worked through everything to a beautiful future.
The family dynamics with Emma, Chance and Ethan were delightful and I also found the hockey scenes interesting and well described, although I know absolutely nothing about ice hockey I was able follow along comfortably.
There are several open door, spicy scenes but they progress the story and are tastefully written. There’s nothing superfluous or sensationalist about them, rather they highlight Maya and Jackson’s relationship progression.
I found this story extremely engaging to the point that I was walking around with a copy gripped in my fist as I didn’t want to put it down and hence I read it within 24 hours. There was nothing I didn’t love about it.
I read an ebook copy of this book, with around 380 pages, this book has an interesting monochrome cover and excellent editing. If you are prepared for uncomfortable subjects and an angsty read then I highly recommend this well written story.
With thanks to Clara St. James for an early read of this emotional book. All comments are my own honest, unbiased opinion.
⛸️ Breakaway Series
⛸️ Trauma
⛸️ Extended Family
⛸️ Supportive MMC
⛸️ Ice Hockey
⛸️Sports Romance
Playing Defense is the second (#2) book in the ‘BREAKAWAY’ series
Reeling after a devastating event that cost her everything Maya Rivera has escaped to the one place she feels safe, her best friends house. Unaware that Jackson Anderson, her best friend’s brother and the man she’s craved for years, is also staying there, Maya holds her struggle inside determined to start anew.
Jackson instantly knows Maya is hiding a secret. This vivacious woman, who lights up the darkest night is hiding something, something that is slowly draining her spark. Vowing to do everything in his power to help her, and as they spend more time together so their relationship grows….
—————————————
** PLEASE CHECK TRIGGER WARNINGS BEFORE STARTING THIS BOOK**
The first thing I’m going to say about this book is make sure you have a box of tissues on hand as this story will tug on every single emotion you possess and then some.
This book was the first by Clara St.James I have read and I went straight to order book one (#1) in the series as I enjoyed it so much. I say enjoyed, but that’s not quite the right word. At times, as we learn about Maya’s journey, it is quite a harrowing read. It deals with emotive subjects such as SA, self harm and premature birth. However the author deals with these subjects in such a sensitive, informative and thoughtful manner with the belief of hope in the future.
I adored Jackson’s character, he was so supportive, patient and giving to Maya, always putting her needs first and though he makes a terrible error, he makes it for all the right reasons, realises his mistake and works hard to correct it.
Maya, though going through extremely traumatic experiences, is determined and open to healing and moving forward and her character just shone. I was so glad that the pair worked through everything to a beautiful future.
The family dynamics with Emma, Chance and Ethan were delightful and I also found the hockey scenes interesting and well described, although I know absolutely nothing about ice hockey I was able follow along comfortably.
There are several open door, spicy scenes but they progress the story and are tastefully written. There’s nothing superfluous or sensationalist about them, rather they highlight Maya and Jackson’s relationship progression.
I found this story extremely engaging to the point that I was walking around with a copy gripped in my fist as I didn’t want to put it down and hence I read it within 24 hours. There was nothing I didn’t love about it.
I read an ebook copy of this book, with around 380 pages, this book has an interesting monochrome cover and excellent editing. If you are prepared for uncomfortable subjects and an angsty read then I highly recommend this well written story.
With thanks to Clara St. James for an early read of this emotional book. All comments are my own honest, unbiased opinion.
⛸️ Breakaway Series
⛸️ Trauma
⛸️ Extended Family
⛸️ Supportive MMC
⛸️ Ice Hockey
⛸️Sports Romance
Review of advance copy received from Author
I got this book as an arc and I loved it so much!! 5/5 stars!! Thank you so much to Clara for the advanced copy!
Anyways to my review! PS. I tend to jump around a lot when I'm reviewing so... just a heads up!
So I went into this story a little bit blind as to what it was about but I was glad I did. I loved everything about this book! So after Maya gets fired because of "budget cuts" (R*pe) she goes back leaves to her best friends house Emma. And let me say I love Emma because she was always such a happy person while pregnant! So when Maya arrives she finds out that the guys shes been in love with since she was 18 has been there. And OMG I love Jackson throughout the entire book because even when he finds her in the bathroom while shes having a major breakdown he doesn't yell or scream or make her anxious. He just sits and listens and is there for her. I love how their relationship grows and how they have both been obsessed with each other for 8 years (i think) and they both thought they didn't like each other. Jackson is so sweet offering to pay for therapy instead of trying to help her himself. And when she asks him to help her control her body again he does everything to make sure shes not uncomfortable throughout the entire process. When they both confess to each other and Maya found out the night they kissed but he left was because she was drunk and he didn't want to do anything without sober consent. But alas this was only... 65% of the book... So now that they are together they have to tell Emma. They both agree it will be soon! Soon meaning like 5 months but whateverrrrrrrr. They didn't want to stress Emma more then she already was with her pregnancy. But when she does go into labor early all hell goes loose. Because Emma's baby girl is struggling since she was born premature. During delivery the cord is wrapped around Sophia's neck but she ends up fine. A few days later Emma's at home with Ethan (hes a cutie) and Maya. A few days before Jackson was explaining how his mom passed down his fathers pendant to him and he has to give it to the person he loves the most. So he obviously gives it to Maya. But while home Ethan points it out and Emma finds out about Maya and Jackson. And she is pissed. Rightfully so but then Jackson does something stupidly great. He goes and beats up Mayas R***ist. Which gets him arrested... and gets his captain title stripped... But the point it Mayas case gets reopened because he admits to the assault. 7 years in prison (not enough time ngl). But Maya gets her Justice and Emma forgives them and they all live happily ever after! YAY
Anywho I loved this book so so much and I'm so glad i was given the opportunity to review and read this early! Until next time Bye!!!!
Update: I went through the whole book thinking Jackson never told Maya he read her Journal but I reread the part and it literally says she noticed he knew everything... My mind skips words and it screws me over...
Anyways to my review! PS. I tend to jump around a lot when I'm reviewing so... just a heads up!
So I went into this story a little bit blind as to what it was about but I was glad I did. I loved everything about this book! So after Maya gets fired because of "budget cuts" (R*pe) she goes back leaves to her best friends house Emma. And let me say I love Emma because she was always such a happy person while pregnant! So when Maya arrives she finds out that the guys shes been in love with since she was 18 has been there. And OMG I love Jackson throughout the entire book because even when he finds her in the bathroom while shes having a major breakdown he doesn't yell or scream or make her anxious. He just sits and listens and is there for her. I love how their relationship grows and how they have both been obsessed with each other for 8 years (i think) and they both thought they didn't like each other. Jackson is so sweet offering to pay for therapy instead of trying to help her himself. And when she asks him to help her control her body again he does everything to make sure shes not uncomfortable throughout the entire process. When they both confess to each other and Maya found out the night they kissed but he left was because she was drunk and he didn't want to do anything without sober consent. But alas this was only... 65% of the book... So now that they are together they have to tell Emma. They both agree it will be soon! Soon meaning like 5 months but whateverrrrrrrr. They didn't want to stress Emma more then she already was with her pregnancy. But when she does go into labor early all hell goes loose. Because Emma's baby girl is struggling since she was born premature. During delivery the cord is wrapped around Sophia's neck but she ends up fine. A few days later Emma's at home with Ethan (hes a cutie) and Maya. A few days before Jackson was explaining how his mom passed down his fathers pendant to him and he has to give it to the person he loves the most. So he obviously gives it to Maya. But while home Ethan points it out and Emma finds out about Maya and Jackson. And she is pissed. Rightfully so but then Jackson does something stupidly great. He goes and beats up Mayas R***ist. Which gets him arrested... and gets his captain title stripped... But the point it Mayas case gets reopened because he admits to the assault. 7 years in prison (not enough time ngl). But Maya gets her Justice and Emma forgives them and they all live happily ever after! YAY
Anywho I loved this book so so much and I'm so glad i was given the opportunity to review and read this early! Until next time Bye!!!!
Update: I went through the whole book thinking Jackson never told Maya he read her Journal but I reread the part and it literally says she noticed he knew everything... My mind skips words and it screws me over...
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I am very thankful and grateful I got the opportunity to read this ARC and give an honest feedback. That being said I would give this a 2.5. I felt like this book had a lot of potential and the beginning was good but then it just went a little downhill and some of the storyline got lost. Some parts felt unrealistic. For example, how does the best friend Emma not notice Maya is suffering? I understand not pushing and giving space but sometimes you have to push. The signs were all there especially after the Tyler incident. I would have pushed that night and made Maya tell me what was going on. She got lucky Jackson finally pushed. Now as for the best friend brother trope, I felt like it was truly annoying how long they waited to tell her if you can even say they did. Emma had to find out 1. From the news channel about the assault and 2. From over hearing Ethan pointing out the pendant Maya was wearing . For someone being best friends, even sisters I sure thought she sucked. If I was assaulted I would immediately tell my sister. I would want her to be there with me. I understand victim trauma, I do, but she had multiple opportunities to tell Emma and used her pregnancy as an escape goat and that wasn’t fair. For the reclaiming body scene, I know it’s important for SA victims to take back control at their own pace but I felt immediately jumping into sex was not realistic. I figured considering how panicky she got being cornered from Tyler she start slow. 1st and 2nd base slow, taking the lead, getting the pleasure instead of giving and then go for the home run. Then to have this big moment, sex after the assault and then she just leaves?? Because of the rule and arrangements like what?? I can’t imagine being Jackson and just letting her leave. I loved Jackson, I thought he was an amazing character. The words of affection he gave to Maya pulled my heart strings. This man is everything. I loved the nickname Stardust. It was super cute. I liked that there was no 2nd or 3rd act breakup. I felt that was a good move. For the engagement scene I found Maya was super annoying, she felt a bit ungrateful and rude that Jackson proposed on the ice. He had to keep justifying himself. His vows were heart clenching but Mayas vows started off tear jerking and then she got annoying again mentioning the ice proposal and saying “he thinks he can fix everything” like I can’t tell if that was an insult or compliment? Felt like an insult.
I did love getting updates on Emma and Chase. I love them.
Just like the first book, I felt like this book too dragged on more than it should have. I think around 80% it should have come to end. Overall, I’m a big hockey romance and again thankful to have had this opportunity to read the ARC.
I did love getting updates on Emma and Chase. I love them.
Just like the first book, I felt like this book too dragged on more than it should have. I think around 80% it should have come to end. Overall, I’m a big hockey romance and again thankful to have had this opportunity to read the ARC.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was a hard one to read, not because it isn’t good, but because it touches on things that are very real and very heavy.🤍❤️🩹🖤
Playing Defense is one of those books that doesn’t feel like a story so much as something that could (and does) happen to so many people. Maya’s experience, especially the feeling of speaking up and not being believed, hit me deeply🥹🤧 That sense of screaming into the void and being dismissed… yeah. That hurt. And while my own experiences aren’t the same, that emotional place she’s in felt painfully familiar🫣😮💨🫠
Maya’s mental health journey is written in a way that feels honest. Her depression, the way she spirals, the way she feels stuck at the bottom of a well and can’t see a way out, all felt very real. This book gives a voice to something that is often brushed aside or simplified, and I appreciated that it didn’t try to make it “pretty” or easy to digest.
Jackson and Maya together are honestly beautiful. They’re so obviously in love with each other, even when they can’t see it themselves. The care, the patience, the way Jackson shows up for her without trying to fix her or rush her healing… 🫠🥹🔥🤩🤧The spice in this book felt intentional and empowering, more about reclaiming agency and choice than anything else, which I really respected.
That said, there was one thing that pulled me out of the story a bit, and it’s purely personal preference. The repeated emphasis on them “falling in love at 18” didn’t fully land for me🫣😮💨😵💫 It’s not that the age gap itself bothered me, but the way it was phrased and repeated made it feel a little abrupt, almost like love suddenly switched on because a number changed 🤔🫣I would have loved to see that moment tied to a specific memory or emotional shift instead. Again, this didn’t ruin the story for me, but it did bug me enough to keep it from being a full five-star read😵💫
This is not a light book. The writing is easy to read, but the themes are heavy. It deals with sexual assault, self-harm, depression, and very dark mental spaces. Please check content warnings before going into this, especially if those topics are triggering for you.
For me💁🏼♀️, reading stories like this doesn’t trigger me, it actually makes me feel less alone. It reminds me that these experiences don’t define a whole life, they’re chapters, not the entire book📚
Overall, this is a strong, emotional, beautifully written story with characters you can’t help but care about🤩🥹It made me feel seen, it made me think, and it stayed with me long after I finished it 😮💨🥹🤩🔥🤍
Playing Defense is one of those books that doesn’t feel like a story so much as something that could (and does) happen to so many people. Maya’s experience, especially the feeling of speaking up and not being believed, hit me deeply🥹🤧 That sense of screaming into the void and being dismissed… yeah. That hurt. And while my own experiences aren’t the same, that emotional place she’s in felt painfully familiar🫣😮💨🫠
Maya’s mental health journey is written in a way that feels honest. Her depression, the way she spirals, the way she feels stuck at the bottom of a well and can’t see a way out, all felt very real. This book gives a voice to something that is often brushed aside or simplified, and I appreciated that it didn’t try to make it “pretty” or easy to digest.
Jackson and Maya together are honestly beautiful. They’re so obviously in love with each other, even when they can’t see it themselves. The care, the patience, the way Jackson shows up for her without trying to fix her or rush her healing… 🫠🥹🔥🤩🤧The spice in this book felt intentional and empowering, more about reclaiming agency and choice than anything else, which I really respected.
That said, there was one thing that pulled me out of the story a bit, and it’s purely personal preference. The repeated emphasis on them “falling in love at 18” didn’t fully land for me🫣😮💨😵💫 It’s not that the age gap itself bothered me, but the way it was phrased and repeated made it feel a little abrupt, almost like love suddenly switched on because a number changed 🤔🫣I would have loved to see that moment tied to a specific memory or emotional shift instead. Again, this didn’t ruin the story for me, but it did bug me enough to keep it from being a full five-star read😵💫
This is not a light book. The writing is easy to read, but the themes are heavy. It deals with sexual assault, self-harm, depression, and very dark mental spaces. Please check content warnings before going into this, especially if those topics are triggering for you.
For me💁🏼♀️, reading stories like this doesn’t trigger me, it actually makes me feel less alone. It reminds me that these experiences don’t define a whole life, they’re chapters, not the entire book📚
Overall, this is a strong, emotional, beautifully written story with characters you can’t help but care about🤩🥹It made me feel seen, it made me think, and it stayed with me long after I finished it 😮💨🥹🤩🔥🤍
February 6, 2026
Maya believes she’s broken beyond repair, her life is just a dark hole. After losing everything she goes to her best friend, Emma. A lot has changed but her sisterly bond hasn’t and she knows she’ll find open doors, the only problem is that Jackson, the boy she’s loved the one that rejected her is also staying there. With so much on her soul and mind, she can’t seem to get things under control and she doesn’t feel in control which sends her spiraling she tried her hardest but sometimes the darkness can eat you alive.
Jackson finds something that breaks him but knows he’ll do what he can to help maya, the girl he’s been in love with for years and hasn’t made a move out of fear. He can’t confess his feelings he has to help without knowing how to help her. Despite that he’ll do what he can to keep Maya another day on this earth.
First I want to start off by saying that this is a very heavy book despite having great friendship feel and bond it may trigger many but it doesn’t take away from getting a great reading experience. ( i probably cried 50% of playing defense ) So please check trigger warning and reviews if you must.
Maya is such a star, she went through so much pain, the majority of it alone, blaming herself getting in her head and I could relate. The emotions that Clara portrayed in this story were so heartbreaking but strong, the flow of the story helped convey it to us in a way that can help the reader understand someone who is going through a deep depression, someone who has suicidal thought and not everyone is necessarily the same but it gives us a glimpse of Mayas life before the help, before the light.
Jackson was such a strong character one who knew what needed to be while not knowing what to do at the same time, he knew he needed to help her and had no clue as to how, he researched and researched and did his part and for that I have fallen for this book the support that Jackson provided Maya the love that he had for her. No judgement. No pushing. No pity towards her. He saw through her until he got her to truly come out.
Thank you Clara st James for the opportunity, Playing defense will forever have a special place in my heart and on my shelf. P.s the vows at the end got me . I cried ugly had to keep it down, tears of happiness for two individuals that deserved true greatness together.
Jackson finds something that breaks him but knows he’ll do what he can to help maya, the girl he’s been in love with for years and hasn’t made a move out of fear. He can’t confess his feelings he has to help without knowing how to help her. Despite that he’ll do what he can to keep Maya another day on this earth.
First I want to start off by saying that this is a very heavy book despite having great friendship feel and bond it may trigger many but it doesn’t take away from getting a great reading experience. ( i probably cried 50% of playing defense ) So please check trigger warning and reviews if you must.
Maya is such a star, she went through so much pain, the majority of it alone, blaming herself getting in her head and I could relate. The emotions that Clara portrayed in this story were so heartbreaking but strong, the flow of the story helped convey it to us in a way that can help the reader understand someone who is going through a deep depression, someone who has suicidal thought and not everyone is necessarily the same but it gives us a glimpse of Mayas life before the help, before the light.
Jackson was such a strong character one who knew what needed to be while not knowing what to do at the same time, he knew he needed to help her and had no clue as to how, he researched and researched and did his part and for that I have fallen for this book the support that Jackson provided Maya the love that he had for her. No judgement. No pushing. No pity towards her. He saw through her until he got her to truly come out.
Thank you Clara st James for the opportunity, Playing defense will forever have a special place in my heart and on my shelf. P.s the vows at the end got me . I cried ugly had to keep it down, tears of happiness for two individuals that deserved true greatness together.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Review
I was gifted the ebook by the author
When I say I need a minute to find my words, I mean it
It took me longer than I would like to admit to finally sit down and write this review
This book may not have hit me as personally as book 1 but I cannot lie by saying I finished and walked away unaffected
From the first word on the very first page, I was absorbed into this story, putting this book down wasnt easy.
What an absolutely beautiful story
Maya and Jackson go through so much and after all that time they prove that timing is everything, that love always wins, and that no matter what is going on in your life there is always someone out there thinking and caring about you.
Clara really writes incredible books. She allows herself to be vulnerable in her words and trust me when I say her books are emotional and worth every single tear
Honestly when I got to 90% I tried to slow my reading because I just didn't want it to end
I was so invested in Maya and Jackson, both as individuals and them as a couple. Their growth alone and together throught was captivating
Their strength, vulnerability, just everything was so beautiful
I love this little world Clara has created and was so happy that Chase and Emma were part of this book, we get to read more of them and that makes my heart happy
I have said this with book 1 and will say this again, the Breakaway series has easily made its way to my favorites list and I know the rest of the series is going to be just as good and if I am being honest I need to say that Clara knows what she is doing so I can only see her writing getting better and her books topping each other as they are released so they will most likely end up being better than good they will be amazing
Now I seriously cannot wait for her to release book 3, I already know I am going to love Tyler's book and that Tyler will have us all swooning from page 1
I was gifted the ebook by the author
When I say I need a minute to find my words, I mean it
It took me longer than I would like to admit to finally sit down and write this review
This book may not have hit me as personally as book 1 but I cannot lie by saying I finished and walked away unaffected
From the first word on the very first page, I was absorbed into this story, putting this book down wasnt easy.
What an absolutely beautiful story
Maya and Jackson go through so much and after all that time they prove that timing is everything, that love always wins, and that no matter what is going on in your life there is always someone out there thinking and caring about you.
Clara really writes incredible books. She allows herself to be vulnerable in her words and trust me when I say her books are emotional and worth every single tear
Honestly when I got to 90% I tried to slow my reading because I just didn't want it to end
I was so invested in Maya and Jackson, both as individuals and them as a couple. Their growth alone and together throught was captivating
Their strength, vulnerability, just everything was so beautiful
I love this little world Clara has created and was so happy that Chase and Emma were part of this book, we get to read more of them and that makes my heart happy
I have said this with book 1 and will say this again, the Breakaway series has easily made its way to my favorites list and I know the rest of the series is going to be just as good and if I am being honest I need to say that Clara knows what she is doing so I can only see her writing getting better and her books topping each other as they are released so they will most likely end up being better than good they will be amazing
Now I seriously cannot wait for her to release book 3, I already know I am going to love Tyler's book and that Tyler will have us all swooning from page 1
Review of advance copy received from Author
"You'll never be normal, Stardust. You're too extraordinary."
I'm not going to lie this book made me cry a little and I'm not usually a crier. This is meant to break your heart and then slowly mend it back together again. 😭
Maya- our strong, courageous, beautiful FMC who feels everything so deeply. Her journey was written so thoughtfully, so honest. Feeling like you have to wear this mask at all times and pretending you're ok when you're absolutely drowning but you don't want to be a "burden" to anyone so you put on a facade. I like that the author dove really deep into her entire journey. Nothing got brushed off to the side, nothing was skimmed. This was detailed and raw. Some parts were not easy to read, they weren't easy to digest.
Jackson- our hockey captain who pays attention!!!! Hes so patient and so understanding. He researches to ensure he's not overstepping, or pushing, and doing enough. He's so sweet and thoughtful. He's steady. Swoon worthy. Supportive. Protective.
I think my favorite thing about this whole read is it's not one of those "love heals everything magically" books. Again, youre taken on the journey through the darkest parts and it's not rushed. You feel how much time it truly took Maya. This wasn't one of those the MMC swoops in and mends her this was her putting in the effort, finding the courage, choosing herself, following her timeline, setting her boundaries. This was all Maya. And I loved that.
This book covers some heavy topics. Depression, self harm, assault just to name a few. While it's definitely emotionally heavy it's beautifully balanced with love, patience, strength and healing. It's a spiral and messy which makes it powerful.
Also, Please remember it's ok to not be ok. 🫶
✔️friends with benefits
✔️Mental health rep
✔️Best friends brother
✔️He crawls
✔️Forced proximity
✔️Secret relationship
Thank you for my ARC! I'm leaving this review voluntarily
I'm not going to lie this book made me cry a little and I'm not usually a crier. This is meant to break your heart and then slowly mend it back together again. 😭
Maya- our strong, courageous, beautiful FMC who feels everything so deeply. Her journey was written so thoughtfully, so honest. Feeling like you have to wear this mask at all times and pretending you're ok when you're absolutely drowning but you don't want to be a "burden" to anyone so you put on a facade. I like that the author dove really deep into her entire journey. Nothing got brushed off to the side, nothing was skimmed. This was detailed and raw. Some parts were not easy to read, they weren't easy to digest.
Jackson- our hockey captain who pays attention!!!! Hes so patient and so understanding. He researches to ensure he's not overstepping, or pushing, and doing enough. He's so sweet and thoughtful. He's steady. Swoon worthy. Supportive. Protective.
I think my favorite thing about this whole read is it's not one of those "love heals everything magically" books. Again, youre taken on the journey through the darkest parts and it's not rushed. You feel how much time it truly took Maya. This wasn't one of those the MMC swoops in and mends her this was her putting in the effort, finding the courage, choosing herself, following her timeline, setting her boundaries. This was all Maya. And I loved that.
This book covers some heavy topics. Depression, self harm, assault just to name a few. While it's definitely emotionally heavy it's beautifully balanced with love, patience, strength and healing. It's a spiral and messy which makes it powerful.
Also, Please remember it's ok to not be ok. 🫶
✔️friends with benefits
✔️Mental health rep
✔️Best friends brother
✔️He crawls
✔️Forced proximity
✔️Secret relationship
Thank you for my ARC! I'm leaving this review voluntarily
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book emotional destroyed me🥹
I adored Maya, my sweetest girl😭 She is drowning beneath the surface, and watching her struggle while trying to hold everything together felt painfully real. All I wanted was to reach through the pages and hug her so tightly. She’s messy, impulsive and makes mistakes but every choice comes from trying to feel alive, safe, and not be a burden to anyone!
Jackson Anderson… my heart 😭 He’s always been the responsible, steady one. He shows up, notices the small things, and loves her quietly but fiercely. He’s patient, protective, and lets her heal at her own pace, never rushing or pushing. He stepped in and got her into the therapy she desperately needed, helping her take the first real steps toward healing. The way he chooses her over and over, even when it’s complicated? Men take notes ✍🏼
This book is heavy, touching on SA and self harm, and I need to say how beautifully and thoughtfully Clara handled those topics. Everything was written with so much care, so much love, and so much respect for the weight of what Maya carries. Some of the moments broke me. I cried hard… full blown bawling like a baby.
Their chemistry is layered and tender, but the sparks? They burn. 🔥 Jackson’s quiet intensity with Maya had me swooning, squirming, and rooting for every stolen touch!!!
I adored we got to see Chase & Emma in this!! The found family vibes in this whole series so far is so wholesome!! This story reminds you that your past doesn’t define you, that you can survive, grow, and find love, and that there’s light at the end of even the darkest tunnel. 💙
10/10 no notes, Clara absolutely smashed this!! Will be recovering for quiet a while after this one 😭
I adored Maya, my sweetest girl😭 She is drowning beneath the surface, and watching her struggle while trying to hold everything together felt painfully real. All I wanted was to reach through the pages and hug her so tightly. She’s messy, impulsive and makes mistakes but every choice comes from trying to feel alive, safe, and not be a burden to anyone!
Jackson Anderson… my heart 😭 He’s always been the responsible, steady one. He shows up, notices the small things, and loves her quietly but fiercely. He’s patient, protective, and lets her heal at her own pace, never rushing or pushing. He stepped in and got her into the therapy she desperately needed, helping her take the first real steps toward healing. The way he chooses her over and over, even when it’s complicated? Men take notes ✍🏼
This book is heavy, touching on SA and self harm, and I need to say how beautifully and thoughtfully Clara handled those topics. Everything was written with so much care, so much love, and so much respect for the weight of what Maya carries. Some of the moments broke me. I cried hard… full blown bawling like a baby.
Their chemistry is layered and tender, but the sparks? They burn. 🔥 Jackson’s quiet intensity with Maya had me swooning, squirming, and rooting for every stolen touch!!!
I adored we got to see Chase & Emma in this!! The found family vibes in this whole series so far is so wholesome!! This story reminds you that your past doesn’t define you, that you can survive, grow, and find love, and that there’s light at the end of even the darkest tunnel. 💙
10/10 no notes, Clara absolutely smashed this!! Will be recovering for quiet a while after this one 😭
Review of advance copy received from Author
This actually is a 4.5 star for me but can’t do half stars here.
This book is brimming with content. It was such a meaty read. It not only had the fun side with the spice and the laughter, but it also had an impactful storyline. Clara did such a wonderful job on showcasing what mental health can look like. How certain things in our life can impact us so profoundly that we don’t know what to do anymore. Maya was a fun spirited woman who loved her job as a peds nurse. She was a shining light and was also secretly in love with her best friend’s brother for 8 years. A loss in her life led her to doubt herself and that unfortunately led to something even bigger and horrific to happen to her. Now she’s struggling and is hiding her pain from everyone. If you struggle with your mental health you might be able to relate, I know I did to some extent. I hadn’t gone through what Maya did but I still struggle with my mental health and I’m on meds to help. Jackson figures out something is wrong with Maya pretty quickly. He ends up showing up for her at her lowest moment and tells her she’s not alone anymore, that he��s there and isn’t going anywhere. He is the one who gets her back into therapy where she can start to heal. He’s been secretly in love with her for 8 years as well. He would do anything for her including putting everything on the line even when it could cost him BIG. Through the support of her therapist, friends and Jackson, Maya starts to heal and starts to get back to her old self. Maya and Jackson’s relationship is everything. Everyone deserves that kind of love and support, even if we don’t believe we deserve it.
This book is brimming with content. It was such a meaty read. It not only had the fun side with the spice and the laughter, but it also had an impactful storyline. Clara did such a wonderful job on showcasing what mental health can look like. How certain things in our life can impact us so profoundly that we don’t know what to do anymore. Maya was a fun spirited woman who loved her job as a peds nurse. She was a shining light and was also secretly in love with her best friend’s brother for 8 years. A loss in her life led her to doubt herself and that unfortunately led to something even bigger and horrific to happen to her. Now she’s struggling and is hiding her pain from everyone. If you struggle with your mental health you might be able to relate, I know I did to some extent. I hadn’t gone through what Maya did but I still struggle with my mental health and I’m on meds to help. Jackson figures out something is wrong with Maya pretty quickly. He ends up showing up for her at her lowest moment and tells her she’s not alone anymore, that he��s there and isn’t going anywhere. He is the one who gets her back into therapy where she can start to heal. He’s been secretly in love with her for 8 years as well. He would do anything for her including putting everything on the line even when it could cost him BIG. Through the support of her therapist, friends and Jackson, Maya starts to heal and starts to get back to her old self. Maya and Jackson’s relationship is everything. Everyone deserves that kind of love and support, even if we don’t believe we deserve it.
Review of advance copy received from Author
🅰🆁🅲 🆁🅴🆅🅸🅴🆆
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Playing Defense by Clara St. James
"𝑩𝒆𝒄𝒂𝒖𝒔𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒊𝒔 𝒘𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒉𝒆𝒂𝒍𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒍𝒐𝒐𝒌𝒔 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆. 𝑵𝒐𝒕 𝒑𝒆𝒓𝒇𝒆𝒄𝒕, 𝒏𝒐𝒕 𝒘𝒊𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒖𝒕 𝒔𝒄𝒂𝒓𝒔, 𝒃𝒖𝒕 𝒎𝒐𝒗𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒇𝒐𝒓𝒘𝒂𝒓𝒅 𝒂𝒏𝒚𝒘𝒂𝒚, 𝒃𝒖𝒊𝒍𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒂 𝒍𝒊𝒇𝒆 𝒊𝒏𝒔𝒕𝒆𝒂𝒅 𝒐𝒇 𝒋𝒖𝒔𝒕 𝒔𝒖𝒓𝒗𝒊𝒗𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒐𝒏𝒆.”
I started my 2026 with a book that emotionally destroyed me and healed me at the same time, your going to pay my therapy Ms. Clara!
⚠️Just a little reminder, please check the trigger warnings because this book is quite heavy.⚠️
Ms. Clara beautifully written and handled heavy topics with a lot of thoughtfulness. It’s clear the story was written with intention and care, particularly in how thoughtfully the author handles the emotional weight placed on the FMC.
I didn’t want this story to end, that is how beautiful the book was, I became deeply invested in Maya and Jackson both as individuals and as a couple. Witnessing their growth separately and together was emotionally compelling, with their strength and vulnerability giving the story a real depth. Everything they endure makes their journey feel raw and sincere, and the novel ultimately delivers a beautiful reminder that timing matters, love can be resilient, and even in life’s hardest moments, there is comfort in knowing someone is thinking of and caring for you.
“𝑨𝒍𝒍 𝑰 𝒌𝒏𝒐𝒘 𝒂𝒓𝒆 𝑱𝒂𝒄𝒌𝒔𝒐𝒏’𝒔 𝒂𝒓𝒎𝒔 𝒂𝒓𝒐𝒖𝒏𝒅 𝒎𝒆, 𝒉𝒆’𝒔 𝒔𝒕𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒚 𝒃𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈, 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒘𝒂𝒚 𝒉𝒆’𝒔 𝒉𝒐𝒍𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒎𝒆 𝒕𝒐𝒈𝒆𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒘𝒉𝒆𝒏 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒚𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒆𝒍𝒔𝒆 𝒊𝒔 𝒇𝒂𝒍𝒍𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒂𝒑𝒂𝒓𝒕.”
I want to thank Ms. Clara for allowing me to be part of her writing journey. I’m truly honored to be a member of her street team and grateful for the opportunity to ready this book and to get to know her along the way.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Playing Defense by Clara St. James
"𝑩𝒆𝒄𝒂𝒖𝒔𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒊𝒔 𝒘𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒉𝒆𝒂𝒍𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒍𝒐𝒐𝒌𝒔 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆. 𝑵𝒐𝒕 𝒑𝒆𝒓𝒇𝒆𝒄𝒕, 𝒏𝒐𝒕 𝒘𝒊𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒖𝒕 𝒔𝒄𝒂𝒓𝒔, 𝒃𝒖𝒕 𝒎𝒐𝒗𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒇𝒐𝒓𝒘𝒂𝒓𝒅 𝒂𝒏𝒚𝒘𝒂𝒚, 𝒃𝒖𝒊𝒍𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒂 𝒍𝒊𝒇𝒆 𝒊𝒏𝒔𝒕𝒆𝒂𝒅 𝒐𝒇 𝒋𝒖𝒔𝒕 𝒔𝒖𝒓𝒗𝒊𝒗𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒐𝒏𝒆.”
I started my 2026 with a book that emotionally destroyed me and healed me at the same time, your going to pay my therapy Ms. Clara!
⚠️Just a little reminder, please check the trigger warnings because this book is quite heavy.⚠️
Ms. Clara beautifully written and handled heavy topics with a lot of thoughtfulness. It’s clear the story was written with intention and care, particularly in how thoughtfully the author handles the emotional weight placed on the FMC.
I didn’t want this story to end, that is how beautiful the book was, I became deeply invested in Maya and Jackson both as individuals and as a couple. Witnessing their growth separately and together was emotionally compelling, with their strength and vulnerability giving the story a real depth. Everything they endure makes their journey feel raw and sincere, and the novel ultimately delivers a beautiful reminder that timing matters, love can be resilient, and even in life’s hardest moments, there is comfort in knowing someone is thinking of and caring for you.
“𝑨𝒍𝒍 𝑰 𝒌𝒏𝒐𝒘 𝒂𝒓𝒆 𝑱𝒂𝒄𝒌𝒔𝒐𝒏’𝒔 𝒂𝒓𝒎𝒔 𝒂𝒓𝒐𝒖𝒏𝒅 𝒎𝒆, 𝒉𝒆’𝒔 𝒔𝒕𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒚 𝒃𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈, 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒘𝒂𝒚 𝒉𝒆’𝒔 𝒉𝒐𝒍𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒎𝒆 𝒕𝒐𝒈𝒆𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒘𝒉𝒆𝒏 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒚𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒆𝒍𝒔𝒆 𝒊𝒔 𝒇𝒂𝒍𝒍𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒂𝒑𝒂𝒓𝒕.”
I want to thank Ms. Clara for allowing me to be part of her writing journey. I’m truly honored to be a member of her street team and grateful for the opportunity to ready this book and to get to know her along the way.
January 18, 2026
6 stars to infinity & beyond!
In her debut, Check & Chase, I fell in love with the MMC, Chase within one chapter! It happened again with the MMC of Playing Defense, Jackson Anderson (Emma’s older brother). There is kind of a hint towards the end of Book 1 about Jack & Maya but you get more of the backstory here.
Maya has been in love with Jack since she was 18 years old. It also turns out he had been in love with her just as long!
Something traumatic happens to Maya & she is going on a downward spiral. She hasn’t told a soul but is keeping everything to herself that is until Jack finds out. Jack turns into the most protective man & does everything he can to pull the woman he loves back into the light.
I cannot gush enough about this book. Jackson is the best guy & I could not help but wish he was real. Like he had me majorly swooning! Maya is hands down such a strong & amazing woman. With the trauma she went through she fought to take back her life & her body with this precious man by her side ❤️❤️❤️ The love between these two makes me believe soulmates do exist.
I would love to mention that I love love when an FMC hold’s her man’s face in her hands 😁😁😁 And he leans in! *melts into a pile of goo* The steamy scenes are 😊😊😊😊. I had to make sure folks were not looking at me as I was reading the book, haha.
One of my favorite scenes happens toward the end of the book & had me laughing out loud 😁
J+M = True love does exist.
Thank you to the Clara St James for the advanced arc ❤️
In her debut, Check & Chase, I fell in love with the MMC, Chase within one chapter! It happened again with the MMC of Playing Defense, Jackson Anderson (Emma’s older brother). There is kind of a hint towards the end of Book 1 about Jack & Maya but you get more of the backstory here.
Maya has been in love with Jack since she was 18 years old. It also turns out he had been in love with her just as long!
Something traumatic happens to Maya & she is going on a downward spiral. She hasn’t told a soul but is keeping everything to herself that is until Jack finds out. Jack turns into the most protective man & does everything he can to pull the woman he loves back into the light.
I cannot gush enough about this book. Jackson is the best guy & I could not help but wish he was real. Like he had me majorly swooning! Maya is hands down such a strong & amazing woman. With the trauma she went through she fought to take back her life & her body with this precious man by her side ❤️❤️❤️ The love between these two makes me believe soulmates do exist.
I would love to mention that I love love when an FMC hold’s her man’s face in her hands 😁😁😁 And he leans in! *melts into a pile of goo* The steamy scenes are 😊😊😊😊. I had to make sure folks were not looking at me as I was reading the book, haha.
One of my favorite scenes happens toward the end of the book & had me laughing out loud 😁
J+M = True love does exist.
Thank you to the Clara St James for the advanced arc ❤️
February 8, 2026
Playing Defence is one of those romances that hits you right in the chest — not because it’s sad, but because it’s so full of heart, healing, and the kind of emotional honesty that makes you root for the characters like they’re real people.
What stayed with me most was Maya’s journey. Clara St. James doesn’t rush her recovery or gloss over her hurt. Instead, she lets Maya slowly reclaim her strength, piece by piece, until you can feel her standing taller on the page. Watching her rediscover her voice, her confidence, and her sense of self is incredibly satisfying. It’s the kind of character growth that feels earned.
And then there’s Jackson — steady, patient, quietly protective without ever crossing into controlling. He doesn’t “fix” Maya; he supports her while she fixes herself. He shows up, consistently and without fanfare, and you can feel how much he believes in her long before she believes in herself. Their connection builds in this beautifully organic way, full of tension, tenderness, and those big emotions that make romance worth reading.
Together, they create a relationship that feels safe, empowering, and deeply romantic. It’s not about grand gestures — it’s about trust, respect, and the slow, steady rebuilding of a life after heartbreak.
If you love romances where the heroine rises from the ashes and the hero is the kind of man who helps her see her own strength, Playing Defence is a standout. It’s emotional, uplifting, and full of the kind of moments that make you pause just to feel them.
What stayed with me most was Maya’s journey. Clara St. James doesn’t rush her recovery or gloss over her hurt. Instead, she lets Maya slowly reclaim her strength, piece by piece, until you can feel her standing taller on the page. Watching her rediscover her voice, her confidence, and her sense of self is incredibly satisfying. It’s the kind of character growth that feels earned.
And then there’s Jackson — steady, patient, quietly protective without ever crossing into controlling. He doesn’t “fix” Maya; he supports her while she fixes herself. He shows up, consistently and without fanfare, and you can feel how much he believes in her long before she believes in herself. Their connection builds in this beautifully organic way, full of tension, tenderness, and those big emotions that make romance worth reading.
Together, they create a relationship that feels safe, empowering, and deeply romantic. It’s not about grand gestures — it’s about trust, respect, and the slow, steady rebuilding of a life after heartbreak.
If you love romances where the heroine rises from the ashes and the hero is the kind of man who helps her see her own strength, Playing Defence is a standout. It’s emotional, uplifting, and full of the kind of moments that make you pause just to feel them.
February 10, 2026
Playing Defense 🏒🩺
I received an ARC for this book, and I want to thank Clara St. James for sending me this. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to read this beautiful story.
This book was a complete twist in comparison to the previous one. Oh my God, how I loved Jackson and Maya!
Jackson is Emma’s brother from Check & Chase, and he is the star player on his team. He also happens to be in love with Maya, his sister’s best friend.
Maya is a badass nurse, an amazing friend, and a woman who is dealing with so much trauma and so many triggers. Her life turned upside down, and she is just trying to survive.
After Maya moves towns to try to get better, she finds herself living with her best friend’s family, pretending to be okay during the day, just so she can break at night. But Jackson sees her, makes her feel safe and protected.
Jackson helps her see that she is not broken, that she still has light in her, that she is still an amazing person, an outstanding nurse, and a good friend. He helps her feel alive again, he helps her feel in control again, and he respects her.
Maya is one of the strongest characters I have read. She goes through so much, such horrible things happen to her, but she survives. It wasn’t easy, but she got her life back, even better than it was before.
The only thing I didn’t like in the book was Emma trying to make things about her. Other than that, it was an amazing read.
This book was an excellent sequel. I really, really loved it, and it deserves a 5 ⭐️ from me. 🩺🏒
I received an ARC for this book, and I want to thank Clara St. James for sending me this. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to read this beautiful story.
This book was a complete twist in comparison to the previous one. Oh my God, how I loved Jackson and Maya!
Jackson is Emma’s brother from Check & Chase, and he is the star player on his team. He also happens to be in love with Maya, his sister’s best friend.
Maya is a badass nurse, an amazing friend, and a woman who is dealing with so much trauma and so many triggers. Her life turned upside down, and she is just trying to survive.
After Maya moves towns to try to get better, she finds herself living with her best friend’s family, pretending to be okay during the day, just so she can break at night. But Jackson sees her, makes her feel safe and protected.
Jackson helps her see that she is not broken, that she still has light in her, that she is still an amazing person, an outstanding nurse, and a good friend. He helps her feel alive again, he helps her feel in control again, and he respects her.
Maya is one of the strongest characters I have read. She goes through so much, such horrible things happen to her, but she survives. It wasn’t easy, but she got her life back, even better than it was before.
The only thing I didn’t like in the book was Emma trying to make things about her. Other than that, it was an amazing read.
This book was an excellent sequel. I really, really loved it, and it deserves a 5 ⭐️ from me. 🩺🏒
Review of advance copy received from Author
𝑹𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘 𝒐𝒇 𝒂𝒅𝒗𝒂𝒏𝒄𝒆𝒅 𝒄𝒐𝒑𝒚 𝒓𝒆𝒄𝒆𝒊𝒗𝒆𝒅 𝒇𝒓𝒐𝒎 𝒂𝒖𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒓
This book broke me open in the quietest, most devastating way.
Playing Defense isn’t just a hockey romance—it’s a raw, unflinching story about trauma, survival, and learning how to keep choosing yourself when everything inside you wants to disappear. Maya’s pain felt painfully real. Her thoughts, her spirals, the way she masks just to make it through the day.
What struck me most is how healing is portrayed. Love doesn’t magically fix Maya. Jackson doesn’t save her. She does the work. Therapy, setbacks, hard conversations, bad days that don’t suddenly get better. It’s messy and uncomfortable and honest—and that made it powerful. Clara St. James handled these heavy topics with so much care and intention, never glamorizing the pain, but never stripping Maya of her strength either.
Jackson absolutely surprised me. Beneath the hockey-captain exterior is a man who learns how to love patiently, how to listen, and how to show up without trying to “fix” what isn’t his to fix. Their relationship is slow, intentional, and built on trust—and that made every emotional beat hit harder.
This story hurt… but it also healed. It reminded me that staying is brave. That recovery isn’t linear. And that being loved at your worst doesn’t make you weak—it makes you human.
Thank you so much to Clara St. James for trusting me with this ARC. This story will stay with me for a long time.
This book broke me open in the quietest, most devastating way.
Playing Defense isn’t just a hockey romance—it’s a raw, unflinching story about trauma, survival, and learning how to keep choosing yourself when everything inside you wants to disappear. Maya’s pain felt painfully real. Her thoughts, her spirals, the way she masks just to make it through the day.
What struck me most is how healing is portrayed. Love doesn’t magically fix Maya. Jackson doesn’t save her. She does the work. Therapy, setbacks, hard conversations, bad days that don’t suddenly get better. It’s messy and uncomfortable and honest—and that made it powerful. Clara St. James handled these heavy topics with so much care and intention, never glamorizing the pain, but never stripping Maya of her strength either.
Jackson absolutely surprised me. Beneath the hockey-captain exterior is a man who learns how to love patiently, how to listen, and how to show up without trying to “fix” what isn’t his to fix. Their relationship is slow, intentional, and built on trust—and that made every emotional beat hit harder.
This story hurt… but it also healed. It reminded me that staying is brave. That recovery isn’t linear. And that being loved at your worst doesn’t make you weak—it makes you human.
Thank you so much to Clara St. James for trusting me with this ARC. This story will stay with me for a long time.
January 6, 2026
What to expect: hockey romance, best friends brother, secret relationship, healing and growth, dual pov, heartwarming family dynamics
This story tackles some heavy themes, but it’s also full of healing and growth that made it one that will stick with me for awhile. That being said, I definitely encourage checking the trigger warnings before jumping in.
Maya and Jackson have loved each other for eight years before reconnecting again. Maya has been through a traumatic situation and goes to stay with her bestfriend Emma, only to find that Jackson is also living there. While Maya is struggling, Jackson pushes past her walls, showing up for her with patience and understanding in order to help her heal.
The sports elements are detailed really well which I enjoyed because I love when a hockey romance actually dives into the practices and games. Another thing I loved was the family dynamic between Maya, Jackson, Emma, Chase, and Ethan. This was a huge highlight for me and I feel like it added a lot to the entire story.
This was a quick but emotional read with steady pacing throughout. While a few moments felt a bit repetitive, I still really enjoyed it overall. The heavy themes were handled with care and sensitivity, and the story ultimately offers a lot of hope. It shows how truly caring for someone who’s been through trauma can make all of the difference in how they heal.
This story tackles some heavy themes, but it’s also full of healing and growth that made it one that will stick with me for awhile. That being said, I definitely encourage checking the trigger warnings before jumping in.
Maya and Jackson have loved each other for eight years before reconnecting again. Maya has been through a traumatic situation and goes to stay with her bestfriend Emma, only to find that Jackson is also living there. While Maya is struggling, Jackson pushes past her walls, showing up for her with patience and understanding in order to help her heal.
The sports elements are detailed really well which I enjoyed because I love when a hockey romance actually dives into the practices and games. Another thing I loved was the family dynamic between Maya, Jackson, Emma, Chase, and Ethan. This was a huge highlight for me and I feel like it added a lot to the entire story.
This was a quick but emotional read with steady pacing throughout. While a few moments felt a bit repetitive, I still really enjoyed it overall. The heavy themes were handled with care and sensitivity, and the story ultimately offers a lot of hope. It shows how truly caring for someone who’s been through trauma can make all of the difference in how they heal.
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