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Glasgow Lads #2.5
Play It Safe
In this followup story to Playing for Keeps, Fergus and John must overcome bad advice, broken headboards, and the Doppelgänger from Hell to find their forever bliss. A must-read for Glasgow Lads fans—and for new readers, a short ’n’ sweet intro to this hot new Scottish gay-romance series!
Fancy a game of hide-and-seek?
After living together for three months, Fergus and John have come to love each other’s quirks, and the bond between them is starting to look permanent. But when John wants to take things to the next level, Fergus balks, haunted by the betrayals in his own past.
To overcome these fears, Fergus must embark on an epic, steamy journey—literally—one that will test his faith, his trust, and his ability to keep a cool head in a hot, hot place.
Fancy a game of hide-and-seek?
After living together for three months, Fergus and John have come to love each other’s quirks, and the bond between them is starting to look permanent. But when John wants to take things to the next level, Fergus balks, haunted by the betrayals in his own past.
To overcome these fears, Fergus must embark on an epic, steamy journey—literally—one that will test his faith, his trust, and his ability to keep a cool head in a hot, hot place.
60 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 21, 2015
21 people are currently reading
366 people want to read
About the author
Avery Cockburn
18 books502 followersAvery Cockburn (rhymes with Savory Slow Churn) lives in the great State of Maryland with one infinitely patient man and two infinitely impatient cats.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 94 reviews
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February 14, 2016Kindle freebie 2/14/16!
December 1, 2023
3.5 - Cute extra epilogue for this couple. Personally I get a bit bored with extra fluff and my mind kept wandering but this wasn’t OTT sweet and I’m sure will be a hit for readers who love extra short stories with their fave couples.
October 17, 2016
3.5 Stars
When it comes to the Glasgow Lads, I always want more. More, more, more!!! That's why I'll take as many of these deliciously sweet short stories as I can.
This little beauty focuses on Fergus and John in the months following their decision to co-habitat. They're still madly in love and as adorable together as ever, but Fergus is still holding back a part of himself from John and it's starting to put a strain on their relationship. Fergus is still very much affected by the betrayal of his past lover and, as such, is (understandably) scared to put his full trust in someone again. What he comes to realises though, is that John isn't just someone - he's his whole world and the owner of his heart, hopefully forever.
This story was extremely sweet and deliciously hot. As always, I'm in awe of Cockburn's writing and the fabulously complex and gritty Scottish characters she's created here within this series.
When it comes to the Glasgow Lads, I always want more. More, more, more!!! That's why I'll take as many of these deliciously sweet short stories as I can.
This little beauty focuses on Fergus and John in the months following their decision to co-habitat. They're still madly in love and as adorable together as ever, but Fergus is still holding back a part of himself from John and it's starting to put a strain on their relationship. Fergus is still very much affected by the betrayal of his past lover and, as such, is (understandably) scared to put his full trust in someone again. What he comes to realises though, is that John isn't just someone - he's his whole world and the owner of his heart, hopefully forever.
This story was extremely sweet and deliciously hot. As always, I'm in awe of Cockburn's writing and the fabulously complex and gritty Scottish characters she's created here within this series.
June 10, 2017
3.5 Stars
I think it’s safe to say that for me, any follow up with the guys in this series is an automatic win. Though Fergus and John are happily living together, they’ve had to adjust and shift to make things work. What’s important though, is that they love each other and most of the superfluous stuff is just that - superfluous.
John definitely wants to take that next step in exclusivity, not that they weren’t already, but what it represents will make things that much more meaningful. Fergus understandably hesitates due to past betrayals he’s suffered through, and the guys find themselves at an impasse. What’s needed is an conventional leap of faith, resulting in some very nice sweet and hot that this series has always excelled at.
I think it’s safe to say that for me, any follow up with the guys in this series is an automatic win. Though Fergus and John are happily living together, they’ve had to adjust and shift to make things work. What’s important though, is that they love each other and most of the superfluous stuff is just that - superfluous.
John definitely wants to take that next step in exclusivity, not that they weren’t already, but what it represents will make things that much more meaningful. Fergus understandably hesitates due to past betrayals he’s suffered through, and the guys find themselves at an impasse. What’s needed is an conventional leap of faith, resulting in some very nice sweet and hot that this series has always excelled at.
April 6, 2021
A sweet follow-up on Fergus and John's relationship, focused on how they make it work despite old fears and how they
February 16, 2016
A sweet, amusing little look at John and Fergus, as they navigate the ups and downs of commitment and sharing. John's used to more privacy. Fergus is gun shy after Evan. But somehow, they're determined to make it work. A light story, but with heart and heat.
Best read between books 2 and 3, but I read it after 3 and enjoyed it a lot. Not a good intro to the series though - you'll want to have met the characters first.
Best read between books 2 and 3, but I read it after 3 and enjoyed it a lot. Not a good intro to the series though - you'll want to have met the characters first.
January 29, 2016
3.25
I was a little underwhelmed, but it did make me excited for Liam and Robert's upcoming story.
I was a little underwhelmed, but it did make me excited for Liam and Robert's upcoming story.
April 14, 2021
Not very fond of the bathouse but it was interesting to spend a bit more time with Jonh and Fergus.
April 10, 2021
Reread review 4/9/21:
I was bored with the bathhouse stuff the first time through? LOL. That part had some funny moments. What was wrong with me? Although I am glad it didn't go on longer than it did. The author was beating that Metaphor Pony for all it was worth.
Original review 1/1/2016:
It was great getting to check in on Fergus and John again. For a short read, this packs a lot into it. John and Fergus are having relationship issues, and their friends give them advice. There's a swap meet with a feisty old lady, a bathhouse adventure that goes nowhere you would expect it, smexy times, and two dopey Scots. What's not to love?
I could have used a little less of the bathhouse stuff, since most of that just bored me, at least until the end of it.
We also get a little glimpse at Liam and Robert, who'll be the couple of the next novel, which was nice since we haven't really spent much time with either of them, especially Robert.
I was bored with the bathhouse stuff the first time through? LOL. That part had some funny moments. What was wrong with me? Although I am glad it didn't go on longer than it did. The author was beating that Metaphor Pony for all it was worth.
Original review 1/1/2016:
It was great getting to check in on Fergus and John again. For a short read, this packs a lot into it. John and Fergus are having relationship issues, and their friends give them advice. There's a swap meet with a feisty old lady, a bathhouse adventure that goes nowhere you would expect it, smexy times, and two dopey Scots. What's not to love?
I could have used a little less of the bathhouse stuff, since most of that just bored me, at least until the end of it.
We also get a little glimpse at Liam and Robert, who'll be the couple of the next novel, which was nice since we haven't really spent much time with either of them, especially Robert.
June 30, 2016
Crazy, funny and too short story about John and Fergus, and the important decisions they need to make together ;)
I love John!! He's an adorable human disaster xD
I love John!! He's an adorable human disaster xD
January 21, 2021
Love these lads 💜
December 23, 2015
Read this immediately after Playing for Keeps, because I didn't want to say goodbye to Fergus and John just yet .
Play It Safe is pretty steamy short story, although I must say that I wasn't really that eager with the sex club scenes. Reading about voyeurism or public sex never does appeal to me *shrugs*. But, the result of their sex club visit was so sweet, and I swear I probably had stars in my eyes.
Despite the short length, Cockburn was able to write a well-written internal struggle that Fergus still experiences after the betrayal of Evan, while providing satisfying resolution as well.
Gah, I loved these boys so much!!
Play It Safe is pretty steamy short story, although I must say that I wasn't really that eager with the sex club scenes. Reading about voyeurism or public sex never does appeal to me *shrugs*. But, the result of their sex club visit was so sweet, and I swear I probably had stars in my eyes.
Despite the short length, Cockburn was able to write a well-written internal struggle that Fergus still experiences after the betrayal of Evan, while providing satisfying resolution as well.
Gah, I loved these boys so much!!
May 21, 2019
3.5 stars
Aww! Short and sweet! It’s also rather hilarious. Lol! I will say, this is one of the more unique engagement stories I’ve come across 😆
Aww! Short and sweet! It’s also rather hilarious. Lol! I will say, this is one of the more unique engagement stories I’ve come across 😆
September 18, 2020
Reread 2020
Enjoyable
4 stars
Good short, enjoyed going back to Glasgow and the boys. Fergus and John are favs and I enjoyed seeing them again.
Enjoyable
4 stars
Good short, enjoyed going back to Glasgow and the boys. Fergus and John are favs and I enjoyed seeing them again.
May 13, 2023
Nawet z połówki, które najczęściej są wypełnione scenami seksu znanych już par, autorka potrafiła wycisnąć coś więcej.
Czy jest seks? Jest, oczywiście. Ale w pewien sposób nieoczywisty 😜 Bo mamy tutaj próbę przeniesienia przez Johna związku na inny poziom, wpleciony w to problem z zaufaniem Fergusa, wędrówkę po łaźni i jej pokojach, która trochę przemienia się w stawienie czoła własnym niepewnościom i wątpliwościom.
Zdecydowanie fajna połówka 😁
Czy jest seks? Jest, oczywiście. Ale w pewien sposób nieoczywisty 😜 Bo mamy tutaj próbę przeniesienia przez Johna związku na inny poziom, wpleciony w to problem z zaufaniem Fergusa, wędrówkę po łaźni i jej pokojach, która trochę przemienia się w stawienie czoła własnym niepewnościom i wątpliwościom.
Zdecydowanie fajna połówka 😁
February 8, 2016
The Glasgow Lads series surprised the hell outta me. Mostly because the entire thing is currently available on Kindle Unlimited, and the odds of reading even semi-decent books on KU are extremely low. But even without KU, the individual prices of these books is reasonable, especially for the quality of the content.
Cockburn's writing is fantastic. This isn't just some European football hot guy erotica, it's an actual story with three dimensional characters, believable story arcs, well-paced plot progression, realistic angst, and sweet (not saccharine) romance. Also, the dialogue is fantastic. There's some hilarious banter, and even some great words of wisdom, sometimes coming from the lads, sometimes being dropped on them from others.
This novella focuses once again on Fergus and John as they begin to take their relationship to the next level. Fergus's trust issues are really challenged in this one, and it's satisfying watching as he and John connect on a deeper level and commit to each other permanently.
Cockburn's writing is fantastic. This isn't just some European football hot guy erotica, it's an actual story with three dimensional characters, believable story arcs, well-paced plot progression, realistic angst, and sweet (not saccharine) romance. Also, the dialogue is fantastic. There's some hilarious banter, and even some great words of wisdom, sometimes coming from the lads, sometimes being dropped on them from others.
This novella focuses once again on Fergus and John as they begin to take their relationship to the next level. Fergus's trust issues are really challenged in this one, and it's satisfying watching as he and John connect on a deeper level and commit to each other permanently.
March 8, 2016
A cute short story about Fergus and John. Loved meeting these two hot lads again a few month after moving in together. They're getting used to each other by now, and they're certainly committed. Or so it seems. Life would be perfect if John could believe they're on equal terms in that department. But it seems that Fergus is holding back. The question is: Can Fergus get past his ingrained mistrust of men and rekindle the faith in someone's fidelity?. Or will he continue to play safe?
This is short, fun and well written, and yes, there was steam in so many different ways, but maybe not quite as much as in the full length novels.
This is a lovely addition to the series though and if you have enjoyed these books so far, you can't miss this one out.
This is short, fun and well written, and yes, there was steam in so many different ways, but maybe not quite as much as in the full length novels.
This is a lovely addition to the series though and if you have enjoyed these books so far, you can't miss this one out.
December 31, 2015
Una historia muy cortita que se lee en un suspiro y que nos vuelve a acercar a John y Fergus, tan dulce y hot que me ha dejado con ganas de mucho más, Sra. Cockburn, por favor escriba rápido que estoy deseando leer ya a Liam y Robert.
February 22, 2016
A really nice little freebie (for me anyhoo as I'm signed up to her blog) featuring my favourite couple of the Glasgow Lads series so far, Fergus and John. Enjoyed.
November 11, 2017
4.1 Stars
December 24, 2015
4.5 Stars! Fergus and John are back!! My favourite couple! It was so great to get a glimpse into their relationship, watch them take the next step...see them deal with conflict and find creative ways to solve them. Creative and HOT ways to solve them...best game of Hide and Seek ever! Seriously. Hot.
I love the Glasgow Lads and I love this series-it's becoming one of my favourites! Can't wait for the next book!! Thanks AC!
I love the Glasgow Lads and I love this series-it's becoming one of my favourites! Can't wait for the next book!! Thanks AC!
January 9, 2016
★★★★☆ ~ 4 Stars
John and Fergus have been living together for 3 months and after the latest condom scramble, John pops the all-important question and next step in their relationship. So after he gets some advice, he and John go on a smutty-hot adventure. Will it help Fergus make a decision?
John and Fergus have been living together for 3 months and after the latest condom scramble, John pops the all-important question and next step in their relationship. So after he gets some advice, he and John go on a smutty-hot adventure. Will it help Fergus make a decision?
June 7, 2017
3.5 Stars!
I thought I might get annoyed at an extra helping of angst but this short story is a sweet peek back in on John and Fergus and the gang.
Fergus is still working through trust issues and they go somewhere that makes me want to wash with disinfectant (and this is because I have been to places like this in my misspent youth) but this is really a sweet, tender, and funny little follow up.
I thought I might get annoyed at an extra helping of angst but this short story is a sweet peek back in on John and Fergus and the gang.
Fergus is still working through trust issues and they go somewhere that makes me want to wash with disinfectant (and this is because I have been to places like this in my misspent youth) but this is really a sweet, tender, and funny little follow up.
April 28, 2016
Basically this was me the whole time : eeeeeeeeeeee HEART EYE emojis.
This John & Fergus novella was just.. perfection. Adorable. Hot. Hilaaaaarious. Also the perfect set-up for book three with some Robert & Liam drama.
This John & Fergus novella was just.. perfection. Adorable. Hot. Hilaaaaarious. Also the perfect set-up for book three with some Robert & Liam drama.
November 1, 2015
4.5 stars
Fergus and John are my favorite couple in this series so seeing them so happy and taking another step in their relationship made me happy too :) Really cute short story
Fergus and John are my favorite couple in this series so seeing them so happy and taking another step in their relationship made me happy too :) Really cute short story
December 14, 2015
This was funny and sweet and sexy, and I think I melted a little.
February 26, 2016
This one is really, really short but it is a nice insight into Fergus and Johns life ... and if you adore this series as much as I do, you just have to read this
October 1, 2016
*** 3 safe stars ***
I'm not sure how I feel about this short to be honest.
In this short we meet the main characters from book 1 Playing for Keeps, Fergus and John. They've been together a few months (four, five?), and lived together for three. John brings up [plot spoiler] Fergus balks because of what happened with his ex boyfriend. It becomes a question of trust. They "resolve" this by going to a
It was all so bizarre. I feel I didn't recognize Fergus or John. I'm slightly disappointed. But happy for them too. Even though they've only been together for four-five months.
I'm not sure how I feel about this short to be honest.
In this short we meet the main characters from book 1 Playing for Keeps, Fergus and John. They've been together a few months (four, five?), and lived together for three. John brings up [plot spoiler] Fergus balks because of what happened with his ex boyfriend. It becomes a question of trust. They "resolve" this by going to a
It was all so bizarre. I feel I didn't recognize Fergus or John. I'm slightly disappointed. But happy for them too. Even though they've only been together for four-five months.
January 12, 2016
These characters read as if they are much older than they really are. It's good because we don't get that annoying YA/NA reactions or the naive decisions, but it also makes things a little less believable. It's rare that I'm convinced of a HEA ending with young characters but I believe it here.
I love this couple, but considering the short length of the book, I didn't like the time spent (wasted) describing Fergus's adventure at Club 212. I wanted every page to have both characters to be on page...and I was also hoping to get more insight to Liam and Robert. I CANNOT WAIT!!
I love this couple, but considering the short length of the book, I didn't like the time spent (wasted) describing Fergus's adventure at Club 212. I wanted every page to have both characters to be on page...and I was also hoping to get more insight to Liam and Robert. I CANNOT WAIT!!
November 24, 2015
I have to read these Scottish football stories straight away. Even a short like this one provides extra layers to characters, in this case Fergus and John.
And since we spend half the time in a 'bath house', well, *fans self* that's alright too.
Despite the exhibition efforts of these boys, the story is actually quite emotional and poignant rather than porny.
Can't wait for the next full length story in this series.
And since we spend half the time in a 'bath house', well, *fans self* that's alright too.
Despite the exhibition efforts of these boys, the story is actually quite emotional and poignant rather than porny.
Can't wait for the next full length story in this series.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 94 reviews