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Glasgow Lads #3
Playing with Fire
“I don’t want options. I just want you.”
Robert McKenzie has a secret. As the only straight player on an all-LGBT soccer team, he’s known to fans as “McWhatAWaste.” No one would guess Robert’s actually bisexual. At twenty-one, on the verge of a brilliant career in video game design, he’s finally ready to be his true self. The only thing keeping him in the closet is…his gay best friend?
Liam Carroll has a problem. His gorgeous best mate wants to kiss him and touch him and…everything with him. But for how long? With Robert embarking on a bright future—far from their rough-and-tumble East End streets—Liam may soon be left behind. He can’t risk falling in love with a man he can’t live without. His solution? Keep things casual, see what happens.
Aye, right. After one night together, “just mates” is no longer an option. Robert wants more than sex, but diehard cynic Liam won’t drop the barriers around his heart. As they push and pull each other, their lifelong bond—the heart of the Warriors team—is ready to rupture. With the bridge back to mere friendship well and truly burned, Robert and Liam must go forward together—or fall to pieces apart.
Robert McKenzie has a secret. As the only straight player on an all-LGBT soccer team, he’s known to fans as “McWhatAWaste.” No one would guess Robert’s actually bisexual. At twenty-one, on the verge of a brilliant career in video game design, he’s finally ready to be his true self. The only thing keeping him in the closet is…his gay best friend?
Liam Carroll has a problem. His gorgeous best mate wants to kiss him and touch him and…everything with him. But for how long? With Robert embarking on a bright future—far from their rough-and-tumble East End streets—Liam may soon be left behind. He can’t risk falling in love with a man he can’t live without. His solution? Keep things casual, see what happens.
Aye, right. After one night together, “just mates” is no longer an option. Robert wants more than sex, but diehard cynic Liam won’t drop the barriers around his heart. As they push and pull each other, their lifelong bond—the heart of the Warriors team—is ready to rupture. With the bridge back to mere friendship well and truly burned, Robert and Liam must go forward together—or fall to pieces apart.
362 pages, Paperback
First published January 29, 2016
45 people are currently reading
627 people want to read
About the author
Avery Cockburn
18 books501 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 196 reviews
February 24, 2016
This is the ultimate sexy (oh, so very sexy!) best-friends-to-lovers story!
Liam is an out-and-proud ginger, Robert the only "straight" man on the Glasgow LGBT futball team. The two are inseparable and do everything together: play futbal, go camping, even pose half-naked for a team calendar.
The big secret is that Robert is bi and pining for Liam.
I was a little annoyed with both MCs, Liam for not trusting Robert enough to know his own mind, and Robert for being so fixated on the word "bisexual." When you love someone, does the label really matter?
I wanted more of Colin and Andrew from book 2, because they are still my favorite; we do see them, but not really as a couple.
I hoped for fireworks & rainbows, but the HEA here is more subdued. I wanted Robert to hold Liam to his promise, and I needed Liam to say yes.
Closer to 3.5 stars rounded up because I can't resist Scottish boys in kilts.
Liam is an out-and-proud ginger, Robert the only "straight" man on the Glasgow LGBT futball team. The two are inseparable and do everything together: play futbal, go camping, even pose half-naked for a team calendar.
The big secret is that Robert is bi and pining for Liam.
I was a little annoyed with both MCs, Liam for not trusting Robert enough to know his own mind, and Robert for being so fixated on the word "bisexual." When you love someone, does the label really matter?
I wanted more of Colin and Andrew from book 2, because they are still my favorite; we do see them, but not really as a couple.
I hoped for fireworks & rainbows, but the HEA here is more subdued. I wanted Robert to hold Liam to his promise, and I needed Liam to say yes.
Closer to 3.5 stars rounded up because I can't resist Scottish boys in kilts.
January 22, 2017
"I’ll make you want me. I’ll make you beg. I’ll make you make me an exception to your rule, until the rule no longer matters."
This was a winner! The second book is still my favorite, but I still enjoyed this one immensely.
This one is more focused on the relationship and the romance. There is plenty of steam (although the sex scenes seemed a bit repetitive to me), some sports action (that, surprisingly, I enjoyed) and no politics or religious stuff.
And seriously, despite his stubbornness and the fact that I wanted to gut punch him, Liam said the most wonderful things.
"“Goodbye is one word you’ll never hear from me. Not unless you say it first. And even then, what you’ll hear is me saying, ‘Please don’t go.’"
Extra points for the way bisexuality was handled and the depiction of the struggles bisexual men sometimes have, within the gay community.
January 30, 2018
3.5 to 4 stars. This series makes me so happy that I'm this close to think that I have a soft spot for Scottish footballers (I really don't??? Because footballers??? I mean????). No matter how many times the characters make my annoyance flair up (Liam, I'm looking at you), it remains that we've got A+ writing, vivid settings and stories that just feel so real I can't help but love them, flaws and all.
TW - biantagonism (from one of the MC - his prejudice towards bisexuals are confronted on page but he does say very hurtful things at the beginning, so beware)
Rep - Gay MC, bisexual MC
TW - biantagonism (from one of the MC - his prejudice towards bisexuals are confronted on page but he does say very hurtful things at the beginning, so beware)
Rep - Gay MC, bisexual MC
May 24, 2017
4.5 Stars!!
Truly in the top favorites of the friends-to-lovers trope, this takes the #1 spot for me in this series so far!!
Robert has come to a place in his life where he’s finally ready to admit his attraction to men. Truthfully, it’s really all about one particular man and that’s Liam, his best friend since they were 6 years old. Robert’s all set to take the plunge but is scared that Liam’s personal hangups might prevent their ultimate happiness. However, he’s determined for Liam to be his first in all things M/M - being with him is simply natural, logical, inevitable.
Liam is quite stunned by Robert’s revelation. He’s always been attracted to Robert but knowing he was straight, he never entertained such thoughts. Liam doesn’t want to get too attached - he’ll gladly be Robert’s guide to the wonderful world of smex, but anything more is off the table due to his distrust of relationships and commitment in general. He wouldn’t dare think they could have something more, stubbornly believing the “friends with benefits” route is the way to go. However, it’s that very friendship that’s on the line, despite him not wanting to risk it. A relationship with Robert is his worst fear and greatest hope - will he make up his mind before it’s too late?
What made this so enjoyable was that both Robert and Liam were wholly likeable, with relatable fears and insecurities. It doesn’t hurt that this had great progression as they slowly learn each other in all the new wonderful ways. *waggles brows* What pushed this beyond most stories of this trope, was the evolution of these two. I’ve not subtly complained about the realistic need for a protracted introduction to sexy first times. For me, many have failed this miserably, but this right here, excelled - and it was hot, hot, hot, interspersed with some real tenderness, vulnerability, and intimacy. Oh yeah.
As my good friend Meags perfectly said, this series has it all. Topical angst, unbelievable sexy times, characters that are genuinely earnest, and feels that are so heartfelt. Definitely a standout series and one of my favorites!
Truly in the top favorites of the friends-to-lovers trope, this takes the #1 spot for me in this series so far!!
Robert has come to a place in his life where he’s finally ready to admit his attraction to men. Truthfully, it’s really all about one particular man and that’s Liam, his best friend since they were 6 years old. Robert’s all set to take the plunge but is scared that Liam’s personal hangups might prevent their ultimate happiness. However, he’s determined for Liam to be his first in all things M/M - being with him is simply natural, logical, inevitable.
Liam is quite stunned by Robert’s revelation. He’s always been attracted to Robert but knowing he was straight, he never entertained such thoughts. Liam doesn’t want to get too attached - he’ll gladly be Robert’s guide to the wonderful world of smex, but anything more is off the table due to his distrust of relationships and commitment in general. He wouldn’t dare think they could have something more, stubbornly believing the “friends with benefits” route is the way to go. However, it’s that very friendship that’s on the line, despite him not wanting to risk it. A relationship with Robert is his worst fear and greatest hope - will he make up his mind before it’s too late?
What made this so enjoyable was that both Robert and Liam were wholly likeable, with relatable fears and insecurities. It doesn’t hurt that this had great progression as they slowly learn each other in all the new wonderful ways. *waggles brows* What pushed this beyond most stories of this trope, was the evolution of these two. I’ve not subtly complained about the realistic need for a protracted introduction to sexy first times. For me, many have failed this miserably, but this right here, excelled - and it was hot, hot, hot, interspersed with some real tenderness, vulnerability, and intimacy. Oh yeah.
As my good friend Meags perfectly said, this series has it all. Topical angst, unbelievable sexy times, characters that are genuinely earnest, and feels that are so heartfelt. Definitely a standout series and one of my favorites!
April 10, 2021
Well-written, as I've come to expect from this author. Despite the fact that it felt a bit bloated -- Liam's dithering got repetitive (and annoying) and could have been trimmed substantially -- this friends-to-lovers story was a sure bet for 4 stars. Or so I thought.
/// A heads-up, before I continue -- I'm going to talk about the generic structure of romance plots now, which could be a little spoilery. Details specific to this story will go behind spoiler tags, but still, proceed at your own risk. ///
When romance authors follow the very well-worn template of a breakup at 80%, they're taking a risk. If one of the lovers is willing to dump the other at that point, do the two of them even belong together? Certainly if the breakup seems like an overreaction, or excessively melodramatic, or mean-spirited -- or simply stupid -- the reader's belief in the couple can be broken. Sad to say, that's what happened to me here.
My feelings exactly.
Probably a normal reader would be expected to , but I never claimed to be normal, and I could not dredge up one jot of sympathy for . And at that point I no longer believed they belonged together. Too young, too immature, whatever. I no longer felt invested in them as a couple; I no longer saw a future for them. And that's the kiss of death for a romance.
Oh well. I'm moving on enthusiastically to the next book, though, because it's the one I've been looking forward to most. Hopefully I won't have another disappointment.
/// A heads-up, before I continue -- I'm going to talk about the generic structure of romance plots now, which could be a little spoilery. Details specific to this story will go behind spoiler tags, but still, proceed at your own risk. ///
When romance authors follow the very well-worn template of a breakup at 80%, they're taking a risk. If one of the lovers is willing to dump the other at that point, do the two of them even belong together? Certainly if the breakup seems like an overreaction, or excessively melodramatic, or mean-spirited -- or simply stupid -- the reader's belief in the couple can be broken. Sad to say, that's what happened to me here.
My feelings exactly.
Probably a normal reader would be expected to , but I never claimed to be normal, and I could not dredge up one jot of sympathy for . And at that point I no longer believed they belonged together. Too young, too immature, whatever. I no longer felt invested in them as a couple; I no longer saw a future for them. And that's the kiss of death for a romance.
Oh well. I'm moving on enthusiastically to the next book, though, because it's the one I've been looking forward to most. Hopefully I won't have another disappointment.
October 29, 2018
4.5 STARS!
Sometimes I wish my imagination was just a little bit better at visualizing things... like, say, John and Fergus' Bachelor Parties. Oh, Liam, Liam, Liam.
KnowwhatImean?
But anyway, I'm off topic here...
This was another fantastic installment to the Glasgow Lads series and one that I was really dying to get to because if there's one type of M/M that gets me... it's Gay For You romances.
I went into this only knowing that it was Liam and Robert's story. I assumed that Robert was going to quit dating the ladies and realize that he's head over heels in love with his best friend, Liam. And that Liam's been pining for Robert since they were kids. That's not really how this played out and I was pleasantly surprised.
Something that set this apart from other friends-to-lovers stories is that there wasn't one person who had been in love with the other for all of eternity. The lust and non-platonic love was a fairly recent development and we got to see them both come to terms with that.
It was refreshing.
"That's why I like being a barman. Things move fast in a pub, with loads of people in and out."
"'Loads of people in and out.' That's your autobiography title sorted."
HA HA HA! BURN!
Liam and Robert have great chemistry--on the field, in the sheets, everywhere. Their banter was fun and their love for each other--even when things were awkward as fuck between them--was sweet and believable. I really wanted the best for these two.
If I had a complaint, it would be that Liam's resistance was drawn out a bit too long for me. I would have liked to have seen more couple-dom between them before the big blow-up. There was a little bit of "Just TALK to each other already!" that I was screaming at my Kindle.
Of course there's loads of Warrior scenes, John and Fergus and their on-going love story, and the hint of Evan's nicer side that makes us want to see if he's really as big of a douche-nozzle as we originally thought. So this was definitely another winner!
Sometimes I wish my imagination was just a little bit better at visualizing things... like, say, John and Fergus' Bachelor Parties. Oh, Liam, Liam, Liam.
KnowwhatImean?
But anyway, I'm off topic here...
This was another fantastic installment to the Glasgow Lads series and one that I was really dying to get to because if there's one type of M/M that gets me... it's Gay For You romances.
I went into this only knowing that it was Liam and Robert's story. I assumed that Robert was going to quit dating the ladies and realize that he's head over heels in love with his best friend, Liam. And that Liam's been pining for Robert since they were kids. That's not really how this played out and I was pleasantly surprised.
Something that set this apart from other friends-to-lovers stories is that there wasn't one person who had been in love with the other for all of eternity. The lust and non-platonic love was a fairly recent development and we got to see them both come to terms with that.
It was refreshing.
"That's why I like being a barman. Things move fast in a pub, with loads of people in and out."
"'Loads of people in and out.' That's your autobiography title sorted."
HA HA HA! BURN!
Liam and Robert have great chemistry--on the field, in the sheets, everywhere. Their banter was fun and their love for each other--even when things were awkward as fuck between them--was sweet and believable. I really wanted the best for these two.
If I had a complaint, it would be that Liam's resistance was drawn out a bit too long for me. I would have liked to have seen more couple-dom between them before the big blow-up. There was a little bit of "Just TALK to each other already!" that I was screaming at my Kindle.
Of course there's loads of Warrior scenes, John and Fergus and their on-going love story, and the hint of Evan's nicer side that makes us want to see if he's really as big of a douche-nozzle as we originally thought. So this was definitely another winner!
April 8, 2021
4.5 stars
Another great story in the Glasgow Lads series.
This time we follow the two inseparable best friends on the team, Robert and Liam, as they face the new attraction between them.
Robert was very sweet and patient at the beginning, when Liam didn’t really give his best. As the story progressed, they were both adorable in all their imperfection, patient with each other, ready to put themselves in each other’s shoes even when they were angry or hurt. Liam really redeemed himself from his initial behavior when
I really enjoyed the fact that their 15-years-long friendship meant they were unwilling to simply give up on each other when things became awkward or difficult. On the contrary, it always felt like they were thinking of and planning towards their best interest as a single unit, even when they weren’t officially together. Like the first priority was always the other one’s happiness and their relationship’s survival, be that relationship romantic or “just” friendship.
Their connection was already so strong from the start that the story was mostly focused on how they reconciled their different fears and expectations and it was done very well.
More than 300 pages and I didn’t feel them at all, this story simply flew for me. It was realistic, sweet and funny. I loved the way they laughed together, even during sex. It made them feel like real people and their chemistry was palpable in those scenes.
The setting and secondary characters were, as always, great. It was good to see the rest of the team and I look forward to Evan and Ben’s story.
----------------------------------
Reread in 2021.
I have to admit I didn’t remember almost anything about the specific events in this book and when I saw I had rated it highest than all the others in the series—of which I remembered a lot more—I was a little afraid this reread would result in a disappointment. Boy, was I wrong. Once again, I devoured this book, it was just so enjoyable, I didn’t feel its length at all. I loved the relationship between Liam and Robert just as much as the first time and the reasons are pretty much all the same that I mentioned in my original review. I just want to add how much I appreciated It was realistic, though, like so much else about this story and this series, and in the end it didn’t bother me much because it was all part of his journey.
Another great story in the Glasgow Lads series.
This time we follow the two inseparable best friends on the team, Robert and Liam, as they face the new attraction between them.
Robert was very sweet and patient at the beginning, when Liam didn’t really give his best. As the story progressed, they were both adorable in all their imperfection, patient with each other, ready to put themselves in each other’s shoes even when they were angry or hurt. Liam really redeemed himself from his initial behavior when
I really enjoyed the fact that their 15-years-long friendship meant they were unwilling to simply give up on each other when things became awkward or difficult. On the contrary, it always felt like they were thinking of and planning towards their best interest as a single unit, even when they weren’t officially together. Like the first priority was always the other one’s happiness and their relationship’s survival, be that relationship romantic or “just” friendship.
Their connection was already so strong from the start that the story was mostly focused on how they reconciled their different fears and expectations and it was done very well.
More than 300 pages and I didn’t feel them at all, this story simply flew for me. It was realistic, sweet and funny. I loved the way they laughed together, even during sex. It made them feel like real people and their chemistry was palpable in those scenes.
The setting and secondary characters were, as always, great. It was good to see the rest of the team and I look forward to Evan and Ben’s story.
----------------------------------
Reread in 2021.
I have to admit I didn’t remember almost anything about the specific events in this book and when I saw I had rated it highest than all the others in the series—of which I remembered a lot more—I was a little afraid this reread would result in a disappointment. Boy, was I wrong. Once again, I devoured this book, it was just so enjoyable, I didn’t feel its length at all. I loved the relationship between Liam and Robert just as much as the first time and the reasons are pretty much all the same that I mentioned in my original review. I just want to add how much I appreciated It was realistic, though, like so much else about this story and this series, and in the end it didn’t bother me much because it was all part of his journey.
March 13, 2016
2.5 stars
I have pondered about this for the past 2 days during the weekend. I had troubles saying that this was a favorite of mine, but there were times when I liked Liam and Robert enough. So I was wondering about whether I should rounded it up or down. After much thinking, I decided that the rounded down rating was the best way. Because I couldn't exactly praise this. I had more issues with the boys than excitement. Which is too bad considering that I love friends-to-lovers theme so much.
The trouble for me already started in the beginning. For me, the best thing about friends to lovers theme is when they get to the end, realize that they're in love and move their friendship to the next level. That all the emotional turmoil in between is worth while. So I was surprised when Robert and Liam actually acted on Robert's attraction quite early in the book. It threw me off balance. Especially then it felt like it was followed with sex-capades and I was quickly bored and annoyed. The sex felt formulaic and didn't add anything substansial to the story, except for some sexy times.
Then we had the angst ... because Liam didn't trust bisexuals (he had bad experience with his last boyfriend who 'returned' to his wife) and so he just didn't want to fully commit to Robert, who wanted to shout their relationship to the world. Can I say that Liam is bi-phobic then? I am starting to feel sorry for bisexuals around the world. What a fight for you guys and gals to deal with, because the other party will think you will go back to the "enemy" of the other gender. I thought I didn't like Liam by then but strangely I couldn't find myself being sympathetic with Robert either. Something was off with these boys to me, and I just couldn't find myself fully rooting for them.
I guess I thought the drama felt rather juvenile, like high-school drama that I clearly don't care about (there's a HUGE reason why I avoid young adult genre). Or maybe because it dragged ON AND ON AND ON for more than 300 pages. I was tired when I finished it, and I admit I skimmed this book a LOT. It wasn't a good sign that in a book about Liam/Robert, I actually had more fun reading about my favorite couple Fergus and John (they were getting married!!) or even the newcomer, Ben. I hope his next book with Evan is so much better than book #2 and #3.
So there ... my full opinion.
On a different note, I wish I can read a romance in which long distance relationship is not such a devilish of a choice, you know? I can see that it sucks, sure. And I am not an expert in relationship so what do I know? But I also want to read about a couple who trust each other enough and able to make it work. Just a personal thought *shrugs*.
I have pondered about this for the past 2 days during the weekend. I had troubles saying that this was a favorite of mine, but there were times when I liked Liam and Robert enough. So I was wondering about whether I should rounded it up or down. After much thinking, I decided that the rounded down rating was the best way. Because I couldn't exactly praise this. I had more issues with the boys than excitement. Which is too bad considering that I love friends-to-lovers theme so much.
The trouble for me already started in the beginning. For me, the best thing about friends to lovers theme is when they get to the end, realize that they're in love and move their friendship to the next level. That all the emotional turmoil in between is worth while. So I was surprised when Robert and Liam actually acted on Robert's attraction quite early in the book. It threw me off balance. Especially then it felt like it was followed with sex-capades and I was quickly bored and annoyed. The sex felt formulaic and didn't add anything substansial to the story, except for some sexy times.
Then we had the angst ... because Liam didn't trust bisexuals (he had bad experience with his last boyfriend who 'returned' to his wife) and so he just didn't want to fully commit to Robert, who wanted to shout their relationship to the world. Can I say that Liam is bi-phobic then? I am starting to feel sorry for bisexuals around the world. What a fight for you guys and gals to deal with, because the other party will think you will go back to the "enemy" of the other gender. I thought I didn't like Liam by then but strangely I couldn't find myself being sympathetic with Robert either. Something was off with these boys to me, and I just couldn't find myself fully rooting for them.
I guess I thought the drama felt rather juvenile, like high-school drama that I clearly don't care about (there's a HUGE reason why I avoid young adult genre). Or maybe because it dragged ON AND ON AND ON for more than 300 pages. I was tired when I finished it, and I admit I skimmed this book a LOT. It wasn't a good sign that in a book about Liam/Robert, I actually had more fun reading about my favorite couple Fergus and John (they were getting married!!) or even the newcomer, Ben. I hope his next book with Evan is so much better than book #2 and #3.
So there ... my full opinion.
On a different note, I wish I can read a romance in which long distance relationship is not such a devilish of a choice, you know? I can see that it sucks, sure. And I am not an expert in relationship so what do I know? But I also want to read about a couple who trust each other enough and able to make it work. Just a personal thought *shrugs*.
December 6, 2018
3.5 stars
March 14, 2016
Básico romance MM--- male/male...hombre/hombre, tendré que empezar a llamarle HH? o le dejo el MM - Masculino/Masculino...mejor no, suena a reporte policial. Romance H/H, hay muchos hombres, mucho fútbol, mucha amiga, poca política (la gran diferencia con los libros anteriores) y lo usual en lo usual del romance HH/MM usual.
Es el más flojo de la serie y, así y todo, superior a la mayoría de sus compañeros de género. Para hacer una comparación: Playing with Fire es 5/5 en un mundo MMHHMM lleno de clichés e historias predecibles. Ejemplo: la otra vez tuve la desgracia de perder el tiempo en una novela de Cardeno C. que casi me tiene vomitando flores y Kurt Hummels encima de mi preciosa tablet...YUCK, demasiada cursilería junta! Por eso, Avery COCKburn está por encima del 90% de los autores que llenan el género de clichés. Y hasta en sus momentos más "flojos" (porque en realidad esta novela es sólo "floja" al lado de sus predecesoras), es un gusto leerla (/lo? pseudónimo a la vista!)
Es el más flojo de la serie y, así y todo, superior a la mayoría de sus compañeros de género. Para hacer una comparación: Playing with Fire es 5/5 en un mundo MMHHMM lleno de clichés e historias predecibles. Ejemplo: la otra vez tuve la desgracia de perder el tiempo en una novela de Cardeno C. que casi me tiene vomitando flores y Kurt Hummels encima de mi preciosa tablet...YUCK, demasiada cursilería junta! Por eso, Avery COCKburn está por encima del 90% de los autores que llenan el género de clichés. Y hasta en sus momentos más "flojos" (porque en realidad esta novela es sólo "floja" al lado de sus predecesoras), es un gusto leerla (/lo? pseudónimo a la vista!)
February 9, 2016
This book has many of the things I've really enjoyed in this series so far. The local Glasgow flavor and slang are wonderfully appealing. The secondary characters, the interactions both on and off the team, give the main characters a full and varied life outside their relationship. The sports action is vivid, but not overdone (in fact, I wouldn't have minded a bit more in this one.) The thing that made this book 4 rather than 5 stars for me was that the conflict - the obstacle that kept these two men apart - felt too thinly stretched for the length of the book.
I do want to say that it was cool to see an M/M book tackling the issue of how bisexual men are distrusted by some in the gay community. There's no doubt that there can be a perception that "bisexual" is either code for "I'm too chicken to say gay" or is a sign that the bi guy will run back to the safe-and-easy refuge of relationships with women at any moment. Both these issues are a painful reality for Robert, the supposedly straight, but actually bi, member of the team.
I enjoyed watching these two lifelong friends reshaping their relationship. I sympathized with Robert, more than with Liam, perhaps because Liam seemed to be trying to play out both of those issues at the same time and that made him feel inconsistent. The glimpses of the other guys worked for me, like catching up with old friends. So although I kind of wanted to bang the guys' heads together at times, and tell them to get over themselves already, this was still a fun read, and I'm eager to see the next book in the series.
I do want to say that it was cool to see an M/M book tackling the issue of how bisexual men are distrusted by some in the gay community. There's no doubt that there can be a perception that "bisexual" is either code for "I'm too chicken to say gay" or is a sign that the bi guy will run back to the safe-and-easy refuge of relationships with women at any moment. Both these issues are a painful reality for Robert, the supposedly straight, but actually bi, member of the team.
I enjoyed watching these two lifelong friends reshaping their relationship. I sympathized with Robert, more than with Liam, perhaps because Liam seemed to be trying to play out both of those issues at the same time and that made him feel inconsistent. The glimpses of the other guys worked for me, like catching up with old friends. So although I kind of wanted to bang the guys' heads together at times, and tell them to get over themselves already, this was still a fun read, and I'm eager to see the next book in the series.
February 2, 2016
4-ish Stars
I stumbled upon this series when the first book was offered as a freebie, and decided to give it to. In this installment, which I got to say I was so excited for...I'm a huge sucker of friends to lovers, especially a GFY scenario, we have our token straight member of the team falling for his best mate. There was so much potential, I think I was a little disappointed in the repeated back and forth and both of the MC's made me want to shake them at some point in the story. I think the resolution to the major strife, which also a little overblown, was believable and provided a nice ending. I enjoyed seeing Fergus and John, and really enjoyed Ben's character...it's quite surprising that I would be interested to read a story with Ben and Evan. Who would have thought it?
I stumbled upon this series when the first book was offered as a freebie, and decided to give it to. In this installment, which I got to say I was so excited for...I'm a huge sucker of friends to lovers, especially a GFY scenario, we have our token straight member of the team falling for his best mate. There was so much potential, I think I was a little disappointed in the repeated back and forth and both of the MC's made me want to shake them at some point in the story. I think the resolution to the major strife, which also a little overblown, was believable and provided a nice ending. I enjoyed seeing Fergus and John, and really enjoyed Ben's character...it's quite surprising that I would be interested to read a story with Ben and Evan. Who would have thought it?
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January 15, 2019
Dnf@ 24%.
The writing was good but suffered from a plot not strong enough to keep my interest going. With an almost completed romantic arc very early on , the book sat unread for several days without any pull for me to return to the story.
The previous books in the series, book one in particular, were much more captivating reads for me.
The writing was good but suffered from a plot not strong enough to keep my interest going. With an almost completed romantic arc very early on , the book sat unread for several days without any pull for me to return to the story.
The previous books in the series, book one in particular, were much more captivating reads for me.
February 3, 2016
3.5 stars rounded down.
I enjoyed this a lot and I think it successfully explored its themes (bisexuality, childhood friends to lovers). I had some niggles—for instance, the sex scenes, although super hot, have become formulaic and there are some easily discernible patterns in the writing—but I still devoured this in one sitting. I'm looking forward to the next book in the series.
I enjoyed this a lot and I think it successfully explored its themes (bisexuality, childhood friends to lovers). I had some niggles—for instance, the sex scenes, although super hot, have become formulaic and there are some easily discernible patterns in the writing—but I still devoured this in one sitting. I'm looking forward to the next book in the series.
January 8, 2022
Reread review 1/7/2022:
Knocking off a star. There was way more sex than I remembered, and I got bored and started skimming/skipping them. And the
Original review 2/13/16:
Liam's biased against bisexuals, compounded by his former boyfriend leaving him for a woman, and Robert's about to graduate university and looking for jobs in gaming development - any of which would take him away from Glasgow. Liam has a family to support and can't just pick up and leave. It's a bad time for them to be attempting a relationship.
I had a hard time getting into this one. We've spent maybe a total of 10 pages with Liam and Robert in the previous installments, and most of those were with Liam. Robert was pretty much a stranger, and while I was looking forward to getting to know both of these two characters better, I wasn't invested enough in them or their friendship to care much about their budding romance so early into the book. Thankfully, what Cockburn does so well is not so much avert or subvert the tropes in the friends-to-lovers to examine the people behind them. Throughout all the various starts and stops along the way, we do get to know what makes both these guys tick and understand exactly what they have to loose and/or gain, not just with each other but in their own lives as well. Watching these two bozos fumble their way from friends to something much more was at times frustrating, but I found myself getting drawn in the more I read and rooting for these guys to just realize how perfect they are for each other already.
Another thing I appreciate about Cockburn's writing is that she doesn't write NA, which technically is what this series is, so much as slices of life. These guys aren't grown up ten-year olds like you see in a lot YA/NA. In fact, I'm often surprised when any of them mentions their ages because they act and feel older - or maybe that should be that they actually act their ages, though they can still be impulsive and angst-ridden at times. I'm also enjoying learning about Scotland just as much as I am learning about the guys in the Warriors team. We even get a hint of who the next book will center around.
Knocking off a star. There was way more sex than I remembered, and I got bored and started skimming/skipping them. And the
Original review 2/13/16:
Liam's biased against bisexuals, compounded by his former boyfriend leaving him for a woman, and Robert's about to graduate university and looking for jobs in gaming development - any of which would take him away from Glasgow. Liam has a family to support and can't just pick up and leave. It's a bad time for them to be attempting a relationship.
I had a hard time getting into this one. We've spent maybe a total of 10 pages with Liam and Robert in the previous installments, and most of those were with Liam. Robert was pretty much a stranger, and while I was looking forward to getting to know both of these two characters better, I wasn't invested enough in them or their friendship to care much about their budding romance so early into the book. Thankfully, what Cockburn does so well is not so much avert or subvert the tropes in the friends-to-lovers to examine the people behind them. Throughout all the various starts and stops along the way, we do get to know what makes both these guys tick and understand exactly what they have to loose and/or gain, not just with each other but in their own lives as well. Watching these two bozos fumble their way from friends to something much more was at times frustrating, but I found myself getting drawn in the more I read and rooting for these guys to just realize how perfect they are for each other already.
Another thing I appreciate about Cockburn's writing is that she doesn't write NA, which technically is what this series is, so much as slices of life. These guys aren't grown up ten-year olds like you see in a lot YA/NA. In fact, I'm often surprised when any of them mentions their ages because they act and feel older - or maybe that should be that they actually act their ages, though they can still be impulsive and angst-ridden at times. I'm also enjoying learning about Scotland just as much as I am learning about the guys in the Warriors team. We even get a hint of who the next book will center around.
August 2, 2016
Once again the Glasgow Lads are back! This time it's Robert and Liam - the mighty centre-back defensive duo for the LGBT soccer team The Warriors.
Robert McKenzie, the only straight player on the team, is gorgeous, talented and on his way to a brilliant career in video game design. The one known as McWhatAWaste has a secret. He's actually bisexual. And totally into his gay best friend.
That gay best friend is Liam Carroll. Liam and Rob grew up together in Glasgow's boisterous and occasionally brutal East End, and have been best friends since they were 8. Because of their lifelong bond, Liam can't risk loosing his heart to Robert. His biggest fear is being left behind, and Robert's future is so bright he's sure he'll be gone after graduation. So, Liam plays it casual - what could go wrong?! But after just one night, Robert wants more.
The constant friction starts to unravel their bond, including their synchronicity on the field. They must find a way to move forward together or be alone and apart.
This story is a more personal and intimate Glasgow Lads because of who Robert and Liam are and what they mean to each other. Finding the balance between who they are on and off the pitch, what they are willing to sacrifice for family, friends, jobs and each other.
The romance, when we have it, is so beautiful. These two know each other so well.
The sex- well, we've got two, 21 year old athletes...and one is a gay virgin. Yeah, the sex is HOT!!!
We also get a significant amount of Warriors who play an important role (off the field) in this book.
Overall, everything I'm looking for in a five star read. A great story, great romance, great characters and smoking hot sex!!
Highly recommended!
Advanced Review Copy of Playing With Fire has been provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Robert McKenzie, the only straight player on the team, is gorgeous, talented and on his way to a brilliant career in video game design. The one known as McWhatAWaste has a secret. He's actually bisexual. And totally into his gay best friend.
That gay best friend is Liam Carroll. Liam and Rob grew up together in Glasgow's boisterous and occasionally brutal East End, and have been best friends since they were 8. Because of their lifelong bond, Liam can't risk loosing his heart to Robert. His biggest fear is being left behind, and Robert's future is so bright he's sure he'll be gone after graduation. So, Liam plays it casual - what could go wrong?! But after just one night, Robert wants more.
The constant friction starts to unravel their bond, including their synchronicity on the field. They must find a way to move forward together or be alone and apart.
This story is a more personal and intimate Glasgow Lads because of who Robert and Liam are and what they mean to each other. Finding the balance between who they are on and off the pitch, what they are willing to sacrifice for family, friends, jobs and each other.
The romance, when we have it, is so beautiful. These two know each other so well.
The sex- well, we've got two, 21 year old athletes...and one is a gay virgin. Yeah, the sex is HOT!!!
We also get a significant amount of Warriors who play an important role (off the field) in this book.
Overall, everything I'm looking for in a five star read. A great story, great romance, great characters and smoking hot sex!!
Highly recommended!
Advanced Review Copy of Playing With Fire has been provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
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, the third full length story, focuses on Robert and Liam, who've been best friends since they were six. Cockburn successfully navigates the friends-to-lovers theme, as well as touching on biphobia. Poor Robert knows how he feels, but everyone else keeps doubting him, including Liam, and it's heartbreaking to watch as these two, previously so attuned to each other, become distrustful and secretive. Their communication completely breaks down in the face of Robert's revelations and the insecurities they both struggle with. Thankfully, they find their way back to each other, and the reunion is very satisfying. Despite some obvious repetitive patterns in the writing in regards to the previous book, and despite my frustration while reading about these two stubborn Scots, I can't bring myself to give this book any less than four stars. Because....Glasgow Lads.
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, the third full length story, focuses on Robert and Liam, who've been best friends since they were six. Cockburn successfully navigates the friends-to-lovers theme, as well as touching on biphobia. Poor Robert knows how he feels, but everyone else keeps doubting him, including Liam, and it's heartbreaking to watch as these two, previously so attuned to each other, become distrustful and secretive. Their communication completely breaks down in the face of Robert's revelations and the insecurities they both struggle with. Thankfully, they find their way back to each other, and the reunion is very satisfying. Despite some obvious repetitive patterns in the writing in regards to the previous book, and despite my frustration while reading about these two stubborn Scots, I can't bring myself to give this book any less than four stars. Because....Glasgow Lads.
February 4, 2016
Último libro de los Lads de Avery hasta la fecha. La historia de Liam y Robert, en los anteriores libros los conflictos eran generados por diferencias religiosas, políticas, sociales, aquí será la bisexualidad de uno de los protagonistas y el diferente camino que han tomado en su vida. Como siempre, los temas están tratados con un buen análisis y mucha sensibilidad.
Quizás de todos los libros es el que me ha parecido más completo, te despierta todo tipo de emociones de forma muy intensa: felicidad, tristeza, rabia, amor..., esta vez con el añadido de escenas que parecen sacadas de una comedia romántica británica y que te sacan más de una carcajada.
Conozco muy pocos autores del género romántico que puedan darte una visión real de la situación social y política de un país, sin que a su vez no rompan el ritmo de la historia, o pierdan el punto romántico.
Me ha parecido una historia maravillosa, el romanticismo mejor entendido.
Deseando que llegue mayo para leer la historia corta de Lord Andrew y Colin, y julio, para leer la historia de Evan y Ben, personaje introducido aquí con muchísimo potencial, promete ser interesante...
Quizás de todos los libros es el que me ha parecido más completo, te despierta todo tipo de emociones de forma muy intensa: felicidad, tristeza, rabia, amor..., esta vez con el añadido de escenas que parecen sacadas de una comedia romántica británica y que te sacan más de una carcajada.
Conozco muy pocos autores del género romántico que puedan darte una visión real de la situación social y política de un país, sin que a su vez no rompan el ritmo de la historia, o pierdan el punto romántico.
Me ha parecido una historia maravillosa, el romanticismo mejor entendido.
Deseando que llegue mayo para leer la historia corta de Lord Andrew y Colin, y julio, para leer la historia de Evan y Ben, personaje introducido aquí con muchísimo potencial, promete ser interesante...
February 27, 2016
Review to come...I think ;)
September 17, 2016
What happens when you fall in love with your alter ego? A hot mess is what happens. If you thought the first two books held great consequences, hold onto your butts because Liam & Robert are about to blow us off the pitch.
I was completely gaga over the first two books, so it’s not surprising that my infatuation continues but it’s subdued this round.
I think the reason my frenzy of excitement lost its gusto is because Avery did such a superb job demonstrating their waffling, that I too found myself waffling. Perhaps they are better off as friends? Maybe it’s too risky? What if they destroy the most precious gift of all…friendship. What will they do???? Even though I’m not dumbstruck, I am happy to say this was another enjoyable jaunt with my newly adored Scots. Ohh and as it turns out, I don’t believe they should keep to the platonic line of their bond, they are truly and madly perfect for each other.
What's to like: Liam and Rab are inseparable, a pure proper example of best mates. They speak without words and defy the immense odds of separation. No matter where one goes, the other is shouldering the way with them. A calendar shoot for the Warriors ignites something startling in Robert and despite his best efforts, he cannot turn it off. What’s even more shocking is…he doesn’t wish to.
He’s attracted to Liam. He’s got a hard on for his most treasured beloved. He can’t deny his feelings but what will happen if Liam does not reciprocate them? Should he confront his desires and find out?
Ugh. It’s a battle of emotions on and off the field. The tension is high and fuses are short. Liam can be…difficult. I was disappointed when Evan was bringing sense and advice to the table. Liam should have been better than that! I wanted to shake some sense into him. He was maddening at times. But even the most frustrating faults on these lads can’t stop my adoration. That’s how deeply vested I am in their happiness and success.
If I’m completely honest, the sexuality label pounding was bit tiresome. I get that this was THE obstacle between them (or the biggest) but it was a heavyweight drama piece. I understand it was a necessary hurdle in their joinery but it was also a hurdle for me in their journey. Please don’t take my niggles the wrong way, they barely impacted my enjoyment factor but it’s only fair that I share them.
What's to love: I love that Avery makes us all fight for it. It’s not delivered on a silver platter, we must earn it through mud, blood and tears. But never fear, blinding orgasms are bright smiles are the rewards. The depth Avery takes us to is astounding. The writing is simply marvelous. There is progress and BIG events with the rest of the lads. This made the story for me. Odd that it wasn’t the couple in the limelight but nevertheless it was soooo worth it. There a few scenes that are absolutely amazeballs! I read the last 20 percent multiple times. I want to scream and flail and weep tears of joy (I always cry at such occasions) but I refuse to ruin it for you. Read it…and I’ll be waiting to gossip about what predictions we have about what’s to come. The fun has only just begun in Glasgow. Join me in my addiction, it’s a fabulous place to be! And not to brag but at this point, my Scottish jargon is pure magic.
Beware of: Sexuality struggles and acceptance, friends to lovers with a hefty bit of drama and MORE sexy sculpted Scots!
This book is for: Glasgow lads fans as myself or anyone looking for a fierce fight for love. As with all of The Glasgow Lads novels, it can be a stand-alone but I highly recommend that you jump back to John & Fergus and begin your adventure there.
Book UNfunk
I was completely gaga over the first two books, so it’s not surprising that my infatuation continues but it’s subdued this round.
I think the reason my frenzy of excitement lost its gusto is because Avery did such a superb job demonstrating their waffling, that I too found myself waffling. Perhaps they are better off as friends? Maybe it’s too risky? What if they destroy the most precious gift of all…friendship. What will they do???? Even though I’m not dumbstruck, I am happy to say this was another enjoyable jaunt with my newly adored Scots. Ohh and as it turns out, I don’t believe they should keep to the platonic line of their bond, they are truly and madly perfect for each other.
What's to like: Liam and Rab are inseparable, a pure proper example of best mates. They speak without words and defy the immense odds of separation. No matter where one goes, the other is shouldering the way with them. A calendar shoot for the Warriors ignites something startling in Robert and despite his best efforts, he cannot turn it off. What’s even more shocking is…he doesn’t wish to.
He’s attracted to Liam. He’s got a hard on for his most treasured beloved. He can’t deny his feelings but what will happen if Liam does not reciprocate them? Should he confront his desires and find out?
Ugh. It’s a battle of emotions on and off the field. The tension is high and fuses are short. Liam can be…difficult. I was disappointed when Evan was bringing sense and advice to the table. Liam should have been better than that! I wanted to shake some sense into him. He was maddening at times. But even the most frustrating faults on these lads can’t stop my adoration. That’s how deeply vested I am in their happiness and success.
If I’m completely honest, the sexuality label pounding was bit tiresome. I get that this was THE obstacle between them (or the biggest) but it was a heavyweight drama piece. I understand it was a necessary hurdle in their joinery but it was also a hurdle for me in their journey. Please don’t take my niggles the wrong way, they barely impacted my enjoyment factor but it’s only fair that I share them.
What's to love: I love that Avery makes us all fight for it. It’s not delivered on a silver platter, we must earn it through mud, blood and tears. But never fear, blinding orgasms are bright smiles are the rewards. The depth Avery takes us to is astounding. The writing is simply marvelous. There is progress and BIG events with the rest of the lads. This made the story for me. Odd that it wasn’t the couple in the limelight but nevertheless it was soooo worth it. There a few scenes that are absolutely amazeballs! I read the last 20 percent multiple times. I want to scream and flail and weep tears of joy (I always cry at such occasions) but I refuse to ruin it for you. Read it…and I’ll be waiting to gossip about what predictions we have about what’s to come. The fun has only just begun in Glasgow. Join me in my addiction, it’s a fabulous place to be! And not to brag but at this point, my Scottish jargon is pure magic.
Beware of: Sexuality struggles and acceptance, friends to lovers with a hefty bit of drama and MORE sexy sculpted Scots!
This book is for: Glasgow lads fans as myself or anyone looking for a fierce fight for love. As with all of The Glasgow Lads novels, it can be a stand-alone but I highly recommend that you jump back to John & Fergus and begin your adventure there.
Book UNfunk
April 14, 2021
I've been very frustrated reading this one, and I had a really difficult time warming up to Liam, or feeling any sympathy for him after seeing how he acted towards his supposedly best friends... But, at the end I could reconcile a bit. I'm still not sold about him and Robert, but I'm willing to give them a chance. I know this is a me thing, not the book, but in this one I got combined two of my least favourite things, and it's "only romance", and while I've been moaning endessly to my BR friends about how politically heavy the others were, it's seems I prefer that over "only romance"... well... bear with me.
January 26, 2021
This book is gonnae stay with me for a wee while. I love the way Cockburn writes her characters and the way she showed us Glasgow through Liam and Robert’s eyes.
Every time Liam talks... (EVERY SINGLE TIME, even when he’s wrong), the way he says “Rab” with that Scottish accent of his ❤️❤️❤️... *sighs*
Yeah, I loved this book. The lads are pure, and dirty, and real and lovely and I can’t get enough of them.
Every time Liam talks... (EVERY SINGLE TIME, even when he’s wrong), the way he says “Rab” with that Scottish accent of his ❤️❤️❤️... *sighs*
Yeah, I loved this book. The lads are pure, and dirty, and real and lovely and I can’t get enough of them.
July 1, 2016
This is the story of two best friends, one of them gay (Liam), and the other a closeted bisexual (Robert) that decides to finally make a move on his best friend to be more than friends… BUT Liam already have a very bad experience with bisexuals so is not very receptive at the beginning...
I couldn't put down this book … so tonight I sleep around five hours before going to work…
Why?? Too much angst that I wanted to leave the book in a happy moment between the MCs BUT NEVER was the right moment!
The beginning of their love story happen very fast in my opinion, I can understand it must be awkward to have sex suddenly with your best friend for 15 years. And more shocking when this one speaks about be “official” boyfriends JUST RIGHT the first encounter. Liam freaked out. AND SO I !!
WHY that urgency Robert?? I really don't understand this part. I know he was attracted to Liam some time ago and have feelings but… come on… give some natural time for a “let's see how it goes” before speaking about a committed relationship!
The secondary plot in this one was the biphobia and all the prejudices a lot people have with bisxuals. I found it interesting reflexion :)
NOTE : Can´t wait for Evan´s story. I hate him as much as I love a good redemption story. (And I really hope the story be good because I HATE CHEATERS. REALLY HATE. So let's see if I can feel some empathy for him…)
February 5, 2016
Igual 3,5, no lo sé, tengo que reposarlo.
Y me ha gustado, pero sintiéndolo mucho, nada comparable al libro de Andrew y Colin, para mi, el mejor de los 3.
Como los demás de la serie éste está muy bien construido, un genial retrato de la ciudad y la sociedad de de Glasgow, que se nota que Cockburn conoce muy bien, y que con cada una de las entregas vamos entendiendo mejor, me ha gustado mucho la nota del autor al final de libro dónde nos cuenta cómo con Playing with Fire cierra una etapa.
El eje central esta vez es la bisexualidad, el autor además de mostrarnos las dudas y la aceptación por parte de Robert , retrata las reticencias de parte de la comunidad gay a los bisexuales a través de los ojos de Liam. Todo eso, como es habitual en el autor/a (¿Avery es chico o chica??? No me queda claro), está muy conseguido.
¿Mis pegas y es porqué de quitarle 1,5 estrellas? Pues la pareja protagonista... Liam y Robert no han conseguido enamorarme, creo que es eso lo que más me ha hecho bajar la nota porque en lo demás, los Lads no decepcionan.
Deseando que publiquen el libro de Ben Y Evan y por supuesto la short story de mi Lord favorito ^^ ¡Avery escribe rápido!!!!!!!
Y me ha gustado, pero sintiéndolo mucho, nada comparable al libro de Andrew y Colin, para mi, el mejor de los 3.
Como los demás de la serie éste está muy bien construido, un genial retrato de la ciudad y la sociedad de de Glasgow, que se nota que Cockburn conoce muy bien, y que con cada una de las entregas vamos entendiendo mejor, me ha gustado mucho la nota del autor al final de libro dónde nos cuenta cómo con Playing with Fire cierra una etapa.
El eje central esta vez es la bisexualidad, el autor además de mostrarnos las dudas y la aceptación por parte de Robert , retrata las reticencias de parte de la comunidad gay a los bisexuales a través de los ojos de Liam. Todo eso, como es habitual en el autor/a (¿Avery es chico o chica??? No me queda claro), está muy conseguido.
¿Mis pegas y es porqué de quitarle 1,5 estrellas? Pues la pareja protagonista... Liam y Robert no han conseguido enamorarme, creo que es eso lo que más me ha hecho bajar la nota porque en lo demás, los Lads no decepcionan.
Deseando que publiquen el libro de Ben Y Evan y por supuesto la short story de mi Lord favorito ^^ ¡Avery escribe rápido!!!!!!!
January 30, 2016
It's no secret that I love a good series. Glasgow Lads is one of my favorites. The series is well written and character driven. The characters are complex and each has a unique voice.
I was surprised by the amount of emotion and angst in Robert and Liam's book. At times, I had to take a reading break. I needed one of Liam's famous massages.
It was great to see all the familiar characters and catch up with my favorite couples. I will be eagerly awaiting the next book.
*ARC provided by the author for an honest review.
I was surprised by the amount of emotion and angst in Robert and Liam's book. At times, I had to take a reading break. I needed one of Liam's famous massages.
It was great to see all the familiar characters and catch up with my favorite couples. I will be eagerly awaiting the next book.
*ARC provided by the author for an honest review.
February 6, 2016
‘really enjoyed this one. Rabbie’s just the sweetest amongst the lads <3
Now, I cannot wait to read Evan’s story. ‘tis gonna be a hell of a redemption arc for him…hhmm.
Thank you to my dear friend Riina for recommending this series! I’m totally in love with the boys! <3
Now, I cannot wait to read Evan’s story. ‘tis gonna be a hell of a redemption arc for him…hhmm.
Thank you to my dear friend Riina for recommending this series! I’m totally in love with the boys! <3
May 16, 2023
4.5 stars
May 7, 2019
Reread May 2019
Had to reread this to remind me of all the details between Liam and Robert before reading the novella following up with them. It was great fun all over again!
Original review:
I love how Avery Cockburn plies open a serious issue in each of her Glasgow Lad series, next to an amazing, wonderful love story. In book one it was sectarianism, in book 2 Scottish independence and now in book 3 the problems that might come with bisexuality. I have read books with bisexual MCs, but never have I come across the theme so sensitively discussed as here.
Liam is gay, and he has been burnt by a bisexual man in the past. So he decides to be careful and mistrusting when Robert, his lifelong friend, comes out to him.
Robert has always known what he is and how he feels, but now he can wait no longer to 'come out'. And Good God, it seems coming out as a bisexual is just as hard as coming out as gay. I love how Robert sticks to his guns once he's decided what he wants to do. He is unerringly clear about what and who he wants - Liam. It is Liam who pulls all the brakes because he is terrified of being left again, terrified by the options bisexual men have, terrified Robert might take 'the easy option out' when the going gets tough.
As always Avery Cockburn knows how to make the pages sizzle when her guys get together. That scene where the boys wear their 'kilts' is etched in my memory forever. :)
This is a beautiful book, just like the first two and I'd like to recommend it to anyone who enjoys reading about real characters with real problems in a real world. Avery Cockburn is a brilliant author who knows how to draw her readers in and make them feel every little ache the same as her characters do.
Had to reread this to remind me of all the details between Liam and Robert before reading the novella following up with them. It was great fun all over again!
Original review:
I love how Avery Cockburn plies open a serious issue in each of her Glasgow Lad series, next to an amazing, wonderful love story. In book one it was sectarianism, in book 2 Scottish independence and now in book 3 the problems that might come with bisexuality. I have read books with bisexual MCs, but never have I come across the theme so sensitively discussed as here.
Liam is gay, and he has been burnt by a bisexual man in the past. So he decides to be careful and mistrusting when Robert, his lifelong friend, comes out to him.
Robert has always known what he is and how he feels, but now he can wait no longer to 'come out'. And Good God, it seems coming out as a bisexual is just as hard as coming out as gay. I love how Robert sticks to his guns once he's decided what he wants to do. He is unerringly clear about what and who he wants - Liam. It is Liam who pulls all the brakes because he is terrified of being left again, terrified by the options bisexual men have, terrified Robert might take 'the easy option out' when the going gets tough.
As always Avery Cockburn knows how to make the pages sizzle when her guys get together. That scene where the boys wear their 'kilts' is etched in my memory forever. :)
This is a beautiful book, just like the first two and I'd like to recommend it to anyone who enjoys reading about real characters with real problems in a real world. Avery Cockburn is a brilliant author who knows how to draw her readers in and make them feel every little ache the same as her characters do.
December 19, 2023
4.5 - Still soundly impressed by this authors writing. I’m loving these sexy Scottish stories. Excellent writing of first time sexual experiences. Genuine flawed and messy characters. A refreshingly different friends to lovers. To be honest I didn’t really love either of these characters but the writing was great, the way Liam started off a bit of a shit and so ignorant about bisexuality but he eventually came around and it all happened so genuinely. He felt like a real dude, the dialogue feels very authentic. Their upbringing matches the people they are, bit rough around the edges. The romance behind those terrible flashing rubber ducks, it was great.
This story started off a bit more of a regular sports romance vibe but it ended up following the theme of this series and going into some deeper issues in the latter half. I wasn’t as invested in these issues as the previous books but I still found it very interesting and left this story feeling like I have a greater understanding of what it’s maybe like to live in Glasgow. The setting here is almost its own secondary character, it’s got life and I never for a second forgot what city I’m in. In other books the location could be anywhere but the author has done a great job illustrating Glasgow in such a vivid way. I’m loving this series and am very eager to get into Evan’s story.
This story started off a bit more of a regular sports romance vibe but it ended up following the theme of this series and going into some deeper issues in the latter half. I wasn’t as invested in these issues as the previous books but I still found it very interesting and left this story feeling like I have a greater understanding of what it’s maybe like to live in Glasgow. The setting here is almost its own secondary character, it’s got life and I never for a second forgot what city I’m in. In other books the location could be anywhere but the author has done a great job illustrating Glasgow in such a vivid way. I’m loving this series and am very eager to get into Evan’s story.
April 14, 2016
Would have given it a higher rating if it hadn't been for the annoying behavior of Liam.
[Beginning of Rant] I get that Liam was hurt before and was therefore understandably cautious but COME ON!!! Robert had a clean track record, perfect gentleman even to his old girlfriends, and would never hurt anyone most of all him his best mate. But NOOOOOO, good old "porcelain heart" Liam just HAD to keep pushing him away because he didn't want to be left behind. Mind you, Robert gave NO indication of that and kept telling him that he would never leave him.
UUUGHHH! For most of the book I just wanted to reach into the book and slap some sense into his thick head. Robert had the patience of a saint. I think their long friendship was part of the reason why he stuck around but I would be long gone as I have little patience for that sort of behavior. Old friend or not.[rant over]
Rant aside, it was a good read and loved the location of the book as Ive always wanted to visit Scotland and Ireland. :)
[Beginning of Rant] I get that Liam was hurt before and was therefore understandably cautious but COME ON!!! Robert had a clean track record, perfect gentleman even to his old girlfriends, and would never hurt anyone most of all him his best mate. But NOOOOOO, good old "porcelain heart" Liam just HAD to keep pushing him away because he didn't want to be left behind. Mind you, Robert gave NO indication of that and kept telling him that he would never leave him.
UUUGHHH! For most of the book I just wanted to reach into the book and slap some sense into his thick head. Robert had the patience of a saint. I think their long friendship was part of the reason why he stuck around but I would be long gone as I have little patience for that sort of behavior. Old friend or not.[rant over]
Rant aside, it was a good read and loved the location of the book as Ive always wanted to visit Scotland and Ireland. :)
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