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Playing Defense
Not yet published
Expected 3 Feb 26JACKSON 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.
- GenresSports Romance
380 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication February 3, 2026
6 people are currently reading
230 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
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.
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.
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 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!
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 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
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
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
🅰🆁🅲 🆁🅴🆅🅸🅴🆆
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
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.
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.
December 31, 2025
𝗔 𝗵𝗼𝗰𝗸𝗲𝘆 𝗿𝗼𝗺𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗵𝗶𝘁𝘀 𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗱𝗲𝗿 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝗻 𝗮 𝗯𝗼𝗱𝘆 𝗰𝗵𝗲𝗰𝗸—𝗳𝘂𝗹𝗹 𝗼𝗳 𝗲𝗺𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗵𝗲𝗮𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗴, 𝘂𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗻𝗶𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗰𝗵𝗲𝗺𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗿𝘆, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗮 𝗹𝗼𝘃𝗲 𝘀𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘆 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗿𝗲𝗳𝘂𝘀𝗲𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝗹𝗲𝘁 𝗴𝗼.
This book was devoured so quickly! I absolutely loved reading about Maya and Jackson, their heartbreak, growth and their journey towards healing. Maya faces some challenges with her mental health (please check triggers) and Jackson is a steady person to help her ground, heal and navigate her pain.
❝𝐁𝐞𝐜𝐚𝐮𝐬𝐞 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐫, 𝐌𝐚𝐲𝐚. 𝐀𝐧𝐝 𝐛𝐞𝐜𝐚𝐮𝐬𝐞 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐝𝐞𝐬𝐞𝐫𝐯𝐞 𝐡𝐞𝐥𝐩.❞
This story was written with the authors feelings embedded. It was tender and raw. It was so beautifully written, although heartbreaking at the same time.
❝𝐈 𝐚𝐜𝐭 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞 𝐈'𝐦 𝐨𝐤𝐚𝐲 𝐰𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐲 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐈 𝐰𝐚𝐤𝐞 𝐮𝐩, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐟𝐢𝐫𝐬𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐢𝐧 𝐦𝐲 𝐡𝐞𝐚𝐝 𝐢𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐈 𝐰𝐢𝐬𝐡 𝐈 𝐡𝐚𝐝𝐧'𝐭.❞
I loved watching Maya heal, watching Jackson support her whilst also learning about himself. Their connection felt genuine and well earned. The spicy scenes were an additional bonus!
❝𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐢𝐬 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐲𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐨𝐧…𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐰𝐡𝐨𝐥𝐞 𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐞. 𝐘𝐨𝐮'𝐫𝐞 𝐠𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐨 𝐫𝐢𝐝𝐞 𝐦𝐞 𝐰𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐦𝐲 𝐧𝐮𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐈'𝐦 𝐠𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐨 𝐥𝐨𝐬𝐞 𝐦𝐲 𝐟𝐮𝐜𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐝.❞
🏑 Mental Health Rep
💙 Found Family
🏑 Healing
💙 Childhood loves
🏑 Best Friends’ Brother
💙 Age Gap
🏑 She makes him crawl to her
💙 FWB
🏑 Secret Relationship
💙 Nurse x Hockey Player
⭐️ 4/5
🌶️ 3/5
This book was devoured so quickly! I absolutely loved reading about Maya and Jackson, their heartbreak, growth and their journey towards healing. Maya faces some challenges with her mental health (please check triggers) and Jackson is a steady person to help her ground, heal and navigate her pain.
❝𝐁𝐞𝐜𝐚𝐮𝐬𝐞 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐫, 𝐌𝐚𝐲𝐚. 𝐀𝐧𝐝 𝐛𝐞𝐜𝐚𝐮𝐬𝐞 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐝𝐞𝐬𝐞𝐫𝐯𝐞 𝐡𝐞𝐥𝐩.❞
This story was written with the authors feelings embedded. It was tender and raw. It was so beautifully written, although heartbreaking at the same time.
❝𝐈 𝐚𝐜𝐭 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞 𝐈'𝐦 𝐨𝐤𝐚𝐲 𝐰𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐲 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐈 𝐰𝐚𝐤𝐞 𝐮𝐩, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐟𝐢𝐫𝐬𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐢𝐧 𝐦𝐲 𝐡𝐞𝐚𝐝 𝐢𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐈 𝐰𝐢𝐬𝐡 𝐈 𝐡𝐚𝐝𝐧'𝐭.❞
I loved watching Maya heal, watching Jackson support her whilst also learning about himself. Their connection felt genuine and well earned. The spicy scenes were an additional bonus!
❝𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐢𝐬 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐲𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐨𝐧…𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐰𝐡𝐨𝐥𝐞 𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐞. 𝐘𝐨𝐮'𝐫𝐞 𝐠𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐨 𝐫𝐢𝐝𝐞 𝐦𝐞 𝐰𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐦𝐲 𝐧𝐮𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐈'𝐦 𝐠𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐨 𝐥𝐨𝐬𝐞 𝐦𝐲 𝐟𝐮𝐜𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐝.❞
🏑 Mental Health Rep
💙 Found Family
🏑 Healing
💙 Childhood loves
🏑 Best Friends’ Brother
💙 Age Gap
🏑 She makes him crawl to her
💙 FWB
🏑 Secret Relationship
💙 Nurse x Hockey Player
⭐️ 4/5
🌶️ 3/5
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book was pure perfection in my eyes. I honestly could have read it in one sitting if I didn’t have to adult. But I expected nothing less from Clara. Check & Chase was one of my favorite reads of 2025, and starting off 2026 with another incredible book from her just feels right.
I was on the edge of my seat the entire time. This story was raw and emotional, and you can feel that it was written from a place of hurt, loss, and trying to find your way back to the light. I truly didn’t think Emma and Chase’s story could be topped—but it was.
Jacksonville (lol Lysa) is everything. The way he is with Maya, the attention to detail—chef’s kiss. Maya’s trust in Jackson is what made this book so compelling for me. And I absolutely loved that Emma and Chase were still such strong presences in this story. Honestly, I just want all of them to keep living in the same house forever 😂
I really, really loved this story. It’s a feel-good read, but it doesn’t shy away from the very heavy shit Maya goes through. It’s written with so much respect and understanding that you can feel it on every page. And come on—the wolf necklace? Perfection.
And it must be said: FUCK YOU, DICK CARSON.
Playing Defense releases February 4th, 2026.
I was on the edge of my seat the entire time. This story was raw and emotional, and you can feel that it was written from a place of hurt, loss, and trying to find your way back to the light. I truly didn’t think Emma and Chase’s story could be topped—but it was.
Jacksonville (lol Lysa) is everything. The way he is with Maya, the attention to detail—chef’s kiss. Maya’s trust in Jackson is what made this book so compelling for me. And I absolutely loved that Emma and Chase were still such strong presences in this story. Honestly, I just want all of them to keep living in the same house forever 😂
I really, really loved this story. It’s a feel-good read, but it doesn’t shy away from the very heavy shit Maya goes through. It’s written with so much respect and understanding that you can feel it on every page. And come on—the wolf necklace? Perfection.
And it must be said: FUCK YOU, DICK CARSON.
Playing Defense releases February 4th, 2026.
January 5, 2026
ARC review: 5 ⭐️
This is my first ARC review of the year, and we’re off to a great start!
This book follows Maya & Jackson. Maya is a paediatric nurse who was raped by her colleague. Following her reporting it, she got sacked and her attacker kept his job. She turned to self-harm to cope with her negative feelings.
This book is about her recovering from this, going to therapy and feeling safe enough to go back to work in a new hospital.
Jackson is her best friend’s brother, who helps her fall back in love with life and take back control of her body.
This book was incredible. It was emotional, funny, sad and healing for me.
Reading about Maya taking back control of her body after someone removing that control from her was powerful.
Alongside Maya’s recovery, another favourite aspect of this book was the found family within it. I loved Emma & Chase - I haven’t read their book yet but I 100% will as soon as I can. Ethan was a cute side character, as was Sofia. Sofia’s arrival into the world was something really interesting to read about.
Overall, this book was a strong 5 ⭐️ read for me!
Tropes:
• best friend’s brother
• found family
• healing
• mental health rep
• ice hockey captain MMC
• paediatric nurse FMC
This is my first ARC review of the year, and we’re off to a great start!
This book follows Maya & Jackson. Maya is a paediatric nurse who was raped by her colleague. Following her reporting it, she got sacked and her attacker kept his job. She turned to self-harm to cope with her negative feelings.
This book is about her recovering from this, going to therapy and feeling safe enough to go back to work in a new hospital.
Jackson is her best friend’s brother, who helps her fall back in love with life and take back control of her body.
This book was incredible. It was emotional, funny, sad and healing for me.
Reading about Maya taking back control of her body after someone removing that control from her was powerful.
Alongside Maya’s recovery, another favourite aspect of this book was the found family within it. I loved Emma & Chase - I haven’t read their book yet but I 100% will as soon as I can. Ethan was a cute side character, as was Sofia. Sofia’s arrival into the world was something really interesting to read about.
Overall, this book was a strong 5 ⭐️ read for me!
Tropes:
• best friend’s brother
• found family
• healing
• mental health rep
• ice hockey captain MMC
• paediatric nurse FMC
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 Author
A gut-wrenching story of true courage and never-ending love.
Playing Defense is a romance with heavy topics and real struggles that only intensify the love we see poured in each story.
Jackson is the ever-protecting hockey player and Maya the lost girl who feels broken beyond repair.
They have known each other for long, but never spoke about their true feelings and wishes.
When Maya needs helps, Jackson gives everything he has into making her feel lighter, happier, empowered and safe.
When everything is taken away from Maya, she seeks her best friend and the comfort of the familiar, but what truly needs is a wake-up call, followed by unconditional care and support.
Clara St. James gives us an amazing, heartfelt, sometimes painful story about self-healing and find your inner strength even when everything feels lost, about crawling your way back from the darkness, about sacrificing yourself for the ones you love by giving them a safe place to land and about leaning on others to give yourself a break.
Thank you for the ARC.
Playing Defense is a romance with heavy topics and real struggles that only intensify the love we see poured in each story.
Jackson is the ever-protecting hockey player and Maya the lost girl who feels broken beyond repair.
They have known each other for long, but never spoke about their true feelings and wishes.
When Maya needs helps, Jackson gives everything he has into making her feel lighter, happier, empowered and safe.
When everything is taken away from Maya, she seeks her best friend and the comfort of the familiar, but what truly needs is a wake-up call, followed by unconditional care and support.
Clara St. James gives us an amazing, heartfelt, sometimes painful story about self-healing and find your inner strength even when everything feels lost, about crawling your way back from the darkness, about sacrificing yourself for the ones you love by giving them a safe place to land and about leaning on others to give yourself a break.
Thank you for the ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Author
🖤🏒Playing Defence by Clara St James 🏒🖤
382 Pages
The Breakaway Series Book 2
My oh my! Now this book was a gift that kept on giving and gave me life! This also may of got me out of a slump.
Playing Defence follows Emma's best friend Maya, she's been struggling but keeping it hidden from those around her, but someone can see right through that act, Emma's Brother, Jackson, he has always kept Maya at arms length as she's his sisters best friend but he can't give up on her.
I just couldn't put this down, it hits hard but the absolute rawness of Mayas trauma mixed with Jacksons need to help was just perfect. As always I love when previous leads make appearances and this had no shortage of favourites from book one! Especially Max!!
I would highly recommend this book as well as the previous book in this series! I cannot wait for what's coming next!!
For fans of Hockey Romance, Best Friends Brother, Friends With Benefits, Secret Relationship, Mental Health Rep, and some delicious Spicy goodness.
382 Pages
The Breakaway Series Book 2
My oh my! Now this book was a gift that kept on giving and gave me life! This also may of got me out of a slump.
Playing Defence follows Emma's best friend Maya, she's been struggling but keeping it hidden from those around her, but someone can see right through that act, Emma's Brother, Jackson, he has always kept Maya at arms length as she's his sisters best friend but he can't give up on her.
I just couldn't put this down, it hits hard but the absolute rawness of Mayas trauma mixed with Jacksons need to help was just perfect. As always I love when previous leads make appearances and this had no shortage of favourites from book one! Especially Max!!
I would highly recommend this book as well as the previous book in this series! I cannot wait for what's coming next!!
For fans of Hockey Romance, Best Friends Brother, Friends With Benefits, Secret Relationship, Mental Health Rep, and some delicious Spicy goodness.
January 5, 2026
ARC review
Firstly, the trigger warnings should be taken seriously since the topics are really heavy
Tropes:
🩶 best friends brother
🩶 mental health rep
🩶 secret relationship
🩶 hurt/comfort
🩶 he crawls to her
🩶 friends with benefits
🩶 forced proximity
🩶 dual pov
🩶 hockey romance
My review:
I loved Check & Chase, so I knew I had to read Maya and Jackson’s story because it was a long time coming!
Even though the topics in this book are quite heavy, I was able to really understand Maya’s character really well and I was so happy how she was able to work though her trauma on her own with Jackson’s support. And the fact that they had been in love with each other for a long time before either of them told one another…
This books is full of trust, tension, yearning, family and serious topics and Clara balances these themes out perfectly and I fell in love with them the same way I fell in love with Emma and Chase! ౨ৎ
@belleroseslibrary
Firstly, the trigger warnings should be taken seriously since the topics are really heavy
Tropes:
🩶 best friends brother
🩶 mental health rep
🩶 secret relationship
🩶 hurt/comfort
🩶 he crawls to her
🩶 friends with benefits
🩶 forced proximity
🩶 dual pov
🩶 hockey romance
My review:
I loved Check & Chase, so I knew I had to read Maya and Jackson’s story because it was a long time coming!
Even though the topics in this book are quite heavy, I was able to really understand Maya’s character really well and I was so happy how she was able to work though her trauma on her own with Jackson’s support. And the fact that they had been in love with each other for a long time before either of them told one another…
This books is full of trust, tension, yearning, family and serious topics and Clara balances these themes out perfectly and I fell in love with them the same way I fell in love with Emma and Chase! ౨ৎ
@belleroseslibrary
Review of advance copy received from Author
2.5 stars
I’m really thankful for the opportunity to read this as an ARC and to be able to review it honestly.
I usually don’t pay much attention to trigger warnings because I don’t really get triggered, but I genuinely wasn’t expecting some of the content in the first half of this book. This is definitely not an easy, light read, please check the trigger warnings before starting.
I did appreciate the slow burn in this story more than in Book 1. That said, the friends-with-benefits trope could have been executed better. The intimacy felt a bit rigid to me, and the chemistry just didn’t fully land. I was especially looking forward to the tension that comes with sneaking around, but unfortunately, it wasn’t really there.
The story is very angsty, so if that’s your thing, this will likely work for you. One thing that stood out to me, though, was how different the characters felt compared to how they were presented in Book 1, it took some adjusting.
Overall, I appreciate the chance to read this early and share my honest thoughts.
I’m really thankful for the opportunity to read this as an ARC and to be able to review it honestly.
I usually don’t pay much attention to trigger warnings because I don’t really get triggered, but I genuinely wasn’t expecting some of the content in the first half of this book. This is definitely not an easy, light read, please check the trigger warnings before starting.
I did appreciate the slow burn in this story more than in Book 1. That said, the friends-with-benefits trope could have been executed better. The intimacy felt a bit rigid to me, and the chemistry just didn’t fully land. I was especially looking forward to the tension that comes with sneaking around, but unfortunately, it wasn’t really there.
The story is very angsty, so if that’s your thing, this will likely work for you. One thing that stood out to me, though, was how different the characters felt compared to how they were presented in Book 1, it took some adjusting.
Overall, I appreciate the chance to read this early and share my honest thoughts.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ALL THE STARS!!! I absolutely loved Jackson and Maya. Their story was so emotional and watching him help her heal honestly made me cry. This book does deal with heavier topics, so I definitely recommend checking the trigger warnings before reading.
The SPICE though… WOW. It was seriously hot and that one scene where he literally crawls to her awakened something in me. I was not prepared 🥵
If you read the author’s previous book, you’ll be happy to know we get a lot of Chase and Emma in this one. I loved seeing their domestic life and how their relationship has grown. It was such a fun and comforting addition to the story.
Highly recommend 😭
The SPICE though… WOW. It was seriously hot and that one scene where he literally crawls to her awakened something in me. I was not prepared 🥵
If you read the author’s previous book, you’ll be happy to know we get a lot of Chase and Emma in this one. I loved seeing their domestic life and how their relationship has grown. It was such a fun and comforting addition to the story.
Highly recommend 😭
Review of advance copy received from Author
Copied from fable: I think it’s really important to have love stories for people that society deems ‘broken’ or ‘unlovable’, so this story really resonated with me. I thought all the issues were handled with care and researched well to not be offensive. The main character, maya, is written incredibly well and I cried many times for her over the course of the book. I love a well written female character always and this book delivered. So grateful to be an arc reader for this one! Thank you to the author for sending over a copy for me!
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
Playing Defense was a emotional reading but great story. There is mentions of SA and self-harm/suicide these are mentioned multiple times as that is a huge journey for the FMC. I am an emotional reader and going into this I knew what to expect. The author wrote those topics to be very realistic and raw. With that being said The FMC was amazing. She grew so much throughout the book. Jackson definitely was a vital person by her side. Their story gave off meant to be in the messiest and best way possible. I love the journey of the book and how after the FMC opened up everyone was there for her.
Review of advance copy
Jackson and Maya are a wonderful example of how to support those you love.
****I will say- read the content warnings and really be ok with putting down the book if needed! Don’t damage your mental health because you HAVE to finish. ****
Maya is a nurse that finds herself at the end of her ropes until Jackson shows up and reminds her that it’s ok to be yourself as you are.
- forced proximity
- best friends brother
- burn the world energy
****I will say- read the content warnings and really be ok with putting down the book if needed! Don’t damage your mental health because you HAVE to finish. ****
Maya is a nurse that finds herself at the end of her ropes until Jackson shows up and reminds her that it’s ok to be yourself as you are.
- forced proximity
- best friends brother
- burn the world energy
January 1, 2026
🩶ARC REVIEW🩶
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
This book put me through all of my feelings within the first 20%! The way Jackson loves Maya through her trauma. The way he’s patient & sees that’s she’s drowning when no one else could see it.
Maya does take steps on her own to heal herself & what better way to claim your control back then with your hot best friends brother? But is his love for her enough to keep her going through the hard days?
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
This book put me through all of my feelings within the first 20%! The way Jackson loves Maya through her trauma. The way he’s patient & sees that’s she’s drowning when no one else could see it.
Maya does take steps on her own to heal herself & what better way to claim your control back then with your hot best friends brother? But is his love for her enough to keep her going through the hard days?
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was angsty in the best way and handled mental health really well. Maya and Jackson were just… so good together. Their relationship felt real and honest, and I was completely invested in their arc. Thanks so much to the author for the arc, this book was such a treat to read and I already want to read it again!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was in a reading slump, so I signed up for an ARC reading. Let me tell you, this book completely lifted me out of that slump. From the very beginning, I was captivated by the story. I thoroughly enjoyed the fact that the relationship was devoid of toxicity, and Jackson’s maturity was truly remarkable. I’ve never come across a book where a man genuinely embodied the qualities of a man.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Absolutely fantastic read and I know it’s going to stay one of my top reads of the year, even though it’s only just turned 2026. The mental health representation was handled with so much care and honesty; it felt thoughtful, respectful, and deeply moving. And Jackson? Yeah. Number one book boyfriend. Top tier. No notes. Everyone else can step aside.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Read this in less than 24 hours. I was unable to put it down and I was crying by chapter 2 and then on and off for the rest of the book. I love me a MMC that is unwavering for his MMF. I esp love when the asshole gets it in the end.
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