Declan and Silvan are at The Cottage in Part 10 of our Heated Rivalry book review.

We unpack one of the funniest chapters in the novel, from eight burgers and "stupid Canadian wolfbird" to the effortless comedy Rachel Reid gives Ilya throughout these scenes. Beneath the laughter lies one of the book's most important emotional turning points.

We explore Shane's hesitation about coming out, what it means for Ilya to feel like a secret and how Rachel Reid captures the complicated balance between love, fear and vulnerability. We also compare these moments with Jacob Tierney's television adaptation, discussing why certain scenes feel even more powerful on screen and how subtle changes in body language transform the emotional impact.

The conversation also dives into Ilya's lifelong role as a caretaker, the heartbreaking story of his mother, and why we found ourselves wanting even more of his perspective during these pivotal moments. Along the way, we debate whether Heated Rivalry is ultimately Shane's story or whether Ilya deserves more narrative space.

Plus, we share our thoughts after our first Belfast listener meetup and thank everyone who came along to make it such a memorable day.

The next episode of the Long Game podcast will be released on Sunday 2nd August 2026.

Join our Long Game Podcast Book Club on Fable to read along with us each week.: https://fable.co/club/long-game-pod-book-club-with-long-game-pod-349252537194?invite=fc285de0-86ea-45c4-ab3f-8dcc82b8cad8&referralID=4tVUzsxlCC

Find us on instagram: longgame.heatedrivalry.pod

Write to us: longgamepod2481@gmail.com

Find Declan:

Instagram: declan712

Tiktok: declanmccallion1

Find Silvan:

Instagram: Silvates

Tiktok: silvates1

Listen to the Podcast on:

Apple podcast:

Spotify podcast:

Amazon podcast:

Watch it on youtube:

Listen to Silvan’s ‘Silvates’ podcast here:

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/silvates/id1531620495

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2xMX59teVzpf6M86Cv7WG9?si=016f5477aed14697

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Cottage Chapter

02:31 Humor and Levity in the Story

05:10 Adaptation Insights: Book vs. TV Show

08:11 Creative Trust in Adaptations

09:25 Superhero Fatigue and Audience Expectations

09:44 The Need for Quality LGBTQ+ Stories

10:34 Character Dynamics: Shane and Ilya

10:46 Exploring Shane's Internal Struggles

13:44 The Impact of Micro-Rejections

16:29 Ilya's Caretaking Role and Its Consequences

24:33 The Caretaker Role of Ilya

27:13 Contrasting Upbringings: Ilya vs. Shane

30:15 Character Development: The Evolution of Shane

35:00 Emotional Intimacy vs. Physical Connection

39:18 Navigating Grief and Vulnerability

43:55 The Balance of Humor and Seriousness

47:58 The Writer's Responsibility: Depth in Storytelling

57:29 Community Connection: Reflections on the Meetup

Declan and Silvan break down the start of Shane and Ilya’s cottage escape in Part 9 of our Heated Rivary Book review. This week we are joined by Bri, who is a long-time listener of the podcast.

Together, we explore why this chapter feels like such a turning point in their relationship, from the emotional significance of Shane inviting Ilya into his most personal space to the honesty, vulnerability and quiet intimacy that begin to replace years of secrecy.

We also discuss Scott Hunter's impact on Shane and Ilya's future, the differences between Rachel Reid's novel and the TV adaptation, and why the later chapters of Heated Rivalry showcase some of Reid's strongest writing.

As always, the conversation takes plenty of unexpected detours, including nostalgic pop culture references, discussions about Rachel Reid's brilliant blend of romance, humour and spice and one surprisingly passionate debate that inspired the title of the podcasrt episode. This has us questioning whether one particular scene in the book is actually believable.

Vote for the podcast at the British Podcasting Awards - Listener’s choice here: https://www.britishpodcastawards.com/voting?fbclid=IwcGRvZgNmZGlkFlCkmoMrnAekl9q_Oiq5pW6ccq4aTDBleHRuA2FlbQEwAGFkaWQBqzYyDxIeMXNydGMGYXBwX2lkCjY2Mjg1NjgzNzkAAR6krBNj0vQ0HQJgGsYBmJQII6iHsj-9a3oWRYbYE6c90gTbrJOT84ROk3cl7g_aem_Iv3xITo7m3Dit1c_OhL32w&utm_medium=paid&utm_source=fb&utm_id=120249403576740433&utm_content=120249403588300433&utm_term=120249403577610433&utm_campaign=120249403576740433

The next episode of the Long Game podcast will be released on Sunday 26th July 2026.

Join our Long Game Podcast Book Club on Fable to read along with us each week.: https://fable.co/club/long-game-pod-book-club-with-long-game-pod-349252537194?invite=fc285de0-86ea-45c4-ab3f-8dcc82b8cad8&referralID=4tVUzsxlCC

Find us on instagram: longgame.heatedrivalry.pod

Write to us: longgamepod2481@gmail.com

Find Declan:

Instagram: declan712

Tiktok: declanmccallion1

Find Silvan:

Instagram: Silvates

Tiktok: silvates1

Listen to the Podcast on:

Apple podcast:

Spotify podcast:

Amazon podcast:

Watch it on youtube:

Listen to Silvan’s ‘Silvates’ podcast here:

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/silvates/id1531620495

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2xMX59teVzpf6M86Cv7WG9?si=016f5477aed14697

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction

01:31 Discussion of Chapter 23 Overview

03:33 Character Development and Dialogue Analysis

07:45 Exploring Relationship Dynamics

11:11 Significance of Ilya's Commitment

14:50 Self-Defense Mechanisms in Relationships

18:17 Shane's Character and Hockey Obsession

21:00 Contextualizing Scott and Kip's Relationship

23:22 Ilya's Bravery and Public Persona

26:33 Exploring Racy Scenes in the Chapter

27:27 Evolving Relationships: Intimacy and Humor

31:58 Exploring Sexual Dynamics in MM Romance

41:10 Symbolism of the Cottage: A Reflection of Self

45:50 Emotional Intimacy: The Journey of Connection

Declan and Silvan dive into Part 8 of the Heated Rivalry book review.

We explore how Rachel Reid uses crisis as the catalyst for emotional growth in Shane’s injury. We compare the novel with the TV adaptation, unpack why Shane and Ilya react so differently in each version, and discuss the psychology behind fear, avoidance, and the moment Ilya realises he cannot walk away.

As always, we go off on a few tangents, like why third-act breakups frustrate us, whether redemption after cheating can ever work in romance, and how therapists naturally gravitate towards different characters. We also reflect on why finding the right therapist matters, how sensory memories shape our emotions, and why Shane's relationship with hockey changes as his life evolves.

We finally reach one of the most iconic moments in the series, Scott and Kip's iconic kiss. We talk about why this scene carries so much emotional weight, what it means for Shane and Ilya's future, and why a single act of courage can create hope for everyone who follows.

Vote for the podcast at the British Podcasting Awards - Listener’s choice here: https://www.britishpodcastawards.com/voting?fbclid=IwcGRvZgNmZGlkFlCkmoMrnAekl9q_Oiq5pW6ccq4aTDBleHRuA2FlbQEwAGFkaWQBqzYyDxIeMXNydGMGYXBwX2lkCjY2Mjg1NjgzNzkAAR6krBNj0vQ0HQJgGsYBmJQII6iHsj-9a3oWRYbYE6c90gTbrJOT84ROk3cl7g_aem_Iv3xITo7m3Dit1c_OhL32w&utm_medium=paid&utm_source=fb&utm_id=120249403576740433&utm_content=120249403588300433&utm_term=120249403577610433&utm_campaign=120249403576740433

The next episode of the Long Game podcast will be released on Sunday 19th July 2026.

Join our Long Game Podcast Book Club on Fable to read along with us each week.: https://fable.co/club/long-game-pod-book-club-with-long-game-pod-349252537194?invite=fc285de0-86ea-45c4-ab3f-8dcc82b8cad8&referralID=4tVUzsxlCC

Find us on instagram: longgame.heatedrivalry.pod

Write to us: longgamepod2481@gmail.com

Find Declan:

Instagram: declan712

Tiktok: declanmccallion1

Find Silvan:

Instagram: Silvates

Tiktok: silvates1

Listen to the Podcast on:

Apple podcast:

Spotify podcast:

Amazon podcast:

Watch it on youtube: https://youtu.be/gN7qrF8-by8

Listen to Silvan’s ‘Silvates’ podcast here:

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/silvates/id1531620495

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2xMX59teVzpf6M86Cv7WG9?si=016f5477aed14697

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Heated Rivalry Podcast

01:44 Character Development and Emotional Conflicts

06:47 Plot Devices in MM Romance

10:43 The Impact of Cheating in Romance

15:51 Shane's Injury: Book vs. TV Show

18:41 Therapeutic Perspectives on Characters

25:50 Concluding Thoughts on Relationships and Conflict

26:16 The Complexity of Relationships

30:44 Catalysts for Change

34:38 Growth Through Time

38:25 The Power of Touch

46:12 Doubts and Fears

54:26 Hope and Sacrifice

Declan and Silvan go deeper into our Heated Rivalry deep dive in Part 7. We unpack one of the novel's most intimate and emotionally revealing chapters. What begins with a simple Skype call quickly becomes something far more significant, as Shane and Ilya move beyond physical attraction into a longing for domesticity, comfort, and a shared everyday life.

We explore why Shane's glasses become such an unexpectedly powerful symbol, the psychology behind long-distance relationships, love languages, and the growing emotional vulnerability between two men who are trying desperately not to fall in love. We also compare Rachel Reid's novel with the TV adaptation, discussing Ilya's relationship with his father, complicated grief, and why the show adds new emotional layers to his character.

We debate whether Shane's past experiences with other men strengthen or weaken the story, examine the subtle dom/sub dynamic developing between the pair, and ask what it really means to crave someone's presence more than their body.

The conversation drifts into pop culture, internet boyfriends, glasses becoming unexpectedly attractive, and why being someone's weighted blanket might just be the ultimate love language.

This is the quiet calm before everything changes.

Request our meet up details on 19th July in Belfast here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfgNJIFlK10E3J7vjhrvgP6t6UFhcBfS0lqNVHyaTRFWL57XA/viewform?usp=publish-editor

The next episode of the Long Game podcast will be released on Sunday 12th July 2026.

Listen to the Grief episode from Silvan’s Podcast he references:

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/silvates/id1531620495?i=1000611164149

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/57DNPWy7iSvLKeeWcmJrsd

Join our Long Game Podcast Book Club on Fable to read along with us each week.: https://fable.co/club/long-game-pod-book-club-with-long-game-pod-349252537194?invite=fc285de0-86ea-45c4-ab3f-8dcc82b8cad8&referralID=4tVUzsxlCC

Find us on instagram: longgame.heatedrivalry.pod

Write to us: longgamepod2481@gmail.com

Find Declan:

Instagram: declan712

Tiktok: declanmccallion1

Find Silvan:

Instagram: Silvates

Tiktok: silvates1

Listen to the Podcast on:

Apple podcast:

Spotify podcast:

Amazon podcast:

Watch it on youtube:

Listen to Silvan’s ‘Silvates’ podcast here:

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/silvates/id1531620495

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2xMX59teVzpf6M86Cv7WG9?si=016f5477aed14697

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Event Announcement

01:01 Chapter 20: The Significance of Glasses

10:54 Ilya's Family Obligations and Grief

18:34 Intimacy and Vulnerability in Relationships

28:06 Exploring Control and Trust in Relationships

29:40 Navigating Long-Distance Relationships

32:55 The Complexity of Emotional Connections

35:10 Understanding Love Languages

43:24 Character Backstories and Their Impact

49:01 The Realities of Romance vs. Fiction

54:13 The Sweetness of Longing and Love

#podcast #podcastclips #heatedrivalryedit #silvates #connorstorrie #hudsonwilliams #shortsfeed #shortreels #silvates #mmromance #mlm #heatedrivalry #gamechangernovel #heatedrivalrybook #bookclub

Declan and Silvan unpack Part 6 of the Heated Rivalry novel. Here, Shane finally says the words he's spent years avoiding, and everything between him and Ilya begins to change. We examine one of the novel's biggest emotional turning points as Shane comes out to Ilya, leading to a conversation that's surprisingly understated and deeply significant. We explore why Rachel Reid's character writing feels so authentic, how the TV adaptation chooses what to keep (and what to reinvent), and why this moment marks a new stage in Shane and Ilya's relationship.

We also dive into Ilya's devastating family story, discussing the quiet reveal of his mother's death, his father's Alzheimer's, and how grief, trauma and emotional masking shape the person he becomes. Along the way we compare the novel with the TV series, debate Jacob Tierney's adaptation choices, and explain why Connor Storrie's unforgettable Russian monologue may be one of the show's finest moments.

Request our meet up details on 19th July in Belfast here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfgNJIFlK10E3J7vjhrvgP6t6UFhcBfS0lqNVHyaTRFWL57XA/viewform?usp=publish-editor

The next episode of the Long Game podcast will be released on Sunday 5th July 2026.

Join our Long Game Podcast Book Club on Fable to read along with us each week.: https://fable.co/club/long-game-pod-book-club-with-long-game-pod-349252537194?invite=fc285de0-86ea-45c4-ab3f-8dcc82b8cad8&referralID=4tVUzsxlCC

Find us on instagram: longgame.heatedrivalry.pod

Write to us: longgamepod2481@gmail.com

Find Declan:

Instagram: declan712

Tiktok: declanmccallion1

Find Silvan:

Instagram: Silvates

Tiktok: silvates1

Watch it on youtube: https://youtu.be/JadlJGRj9JQ

Listen to Silvan’s ‘Silvates’ podcast here:

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/silvates/id1531620495

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2xMX59teVzpf6M86Cv7WG9?si=016f5477aed14697

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Chapter 17

01:40 Shane's Coming Out Moment

09:24 Character Dynamics and Adaptation

14:25 Exploring Emotional Responses

24:18 The Impact of Grief and Loss

39:18 Navigating Grief and Emotional Defense Mechanisms

41:19 Shifting Tones: From Heavy to Light

42:10 Exploring Intimacy and Vulnerability

44:28 Understanding Complex Relationships

47:11 Proactive Communication in Relationships

49:35 The Complexity of Family Dynamics

51:15 The Absence of Monologues: A Narrative Choice

54:17 The Emotional Weight of Unexpressed Feelings

58:51 Cultural Identity and Language Barriers

01:02:42 The Struggle for Love and Acceptance

01:04:33 Intimacy Through Shared Spaces

01:08:37 The Obsession with Winning vs. Love

01:11:43 The Fear of Losing Someone

01:14:24 Taking Action in Relationships

01:14:43 Missed Opportunities in Narrative

In Part 5 of our Heated Rivalry book club series, Silvan is joined by special guest Alicia, long-time listener and book club member. Together, we unpack Shane’s honest conversation with Rose and the realisation that the future he imagined for himself may not be the one he truly wants.

Our discussion explores the differences between the book and the TV adaptation, from Rose’s role in Shane’s journey of self-discovery to the introduction of Svetlana and the ways both versions of the story handle friendship, family, and identity. Silvan and Alicia also dive into the subtle emotional beats of Ilya’s perspective, examining the heartbreak, longing, and misunderstandings that shape the reunion in Tampa.

Along the way, Alicia brings a unique perspective as a Spanish reader who chose to read the novels in English, leading to a fascinating conversation about language, translation, immigration, and how cultural identity shapes both Shane and Ilya’s experiences.

Find Alicia on instagram: mividaennaranja

Join our Long Game Podcast Book Club on Fable to read along with us each week.: https://fable.co/club/long-game-pod-book-club-with-long-game-pod-349252537194?invite=fc285de0-86ea-45c4-ab3f-8dcc82b8cad8&referralID=4tVUzsxlCC

Find us on instagram: longgame.heatedrivalry.pod

Write to us: longgamepod2481@gmail.com

Find Declan:

Instagram: declan712

Tiktok: declanmccallion1

Find Silvan:

Instagram: Silvates

Tiktok: silvates1

Listen to the Podcast on:

Apple podcast:

Spotify podcast:

Amazon podcast:

Watch it on youtube: https://youtu.be/t9KnTDF_W0c

Listen to Silvan’s ‘Silvates’ podcast here:

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/silvates/id1531620495

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2xMX59teVzpf6M86Cv7WG9?si=016f5477aed14697

Chapters

00:00 Guest Introduction and Community Engagement

01:36 Discovery of Heated Rivalry

03:28 Discussion of Chapter 15 and Character Impressions

07:13 Sexual Dynamics in the Story

12:42 Character Development and Representation

18:06 Women in Hockey and Their Knowledge

22:57 Exploring Problem-Solving Perspectives

24:46 Character Dynamics and Misunderstandings

25:43 Inner Monologues and Relationship Realizations

28:57 Coping Mechanisms and Emotional Repression

32:06 Language and Cultural Adaptation

39:01 Elia's Language Journey

40:30 Cultural Displacement and Identity

44:19 The Immigrant Experience

47:44 Language and Emotional Expression

50:39 Reflections on Representation in Media

Declan and Silvan sit down with Caroline Plyler, director of the hit vertical romance Next Door, to discuss her journey from actor and script supervisor to first-time director. Caroline shares how her own experiences shaped the story, why she wanted to create the "queer Disney Channel movie we never got," and what it has been like seeing audiences around the world connect with Kit and River's love story.

We explore the rise of vertical filmmaking, how platforms like Candy Jar are changing the way stories are discovered, and why Caroline believes mobile-first storytelling is here to stay. She also gives us a behind-the-scenes look at directing Next Door, working with first-time leads, collaborating with cast and crew, and the realities of making a film for today's social-media generation.

We discuss queer representation in media, the importance of joyful LGBTQ+ stories, Caroline's love of Sophia Coppola, the books she'd love to adapt, and her advice for aspiring filmmakers looking to break into the industry.

Next Door is available now on Candy Jar.

Fine Caroline on Instagram and Tiktok: carolinegrayplyler

Find CandyJar on Instagram and Tiktok: watchcandyjar

Join our Long Game Podcast Book Club on Fable to read along with us each week.: https://fable.co/club/long-game-pod-book-club-with-long-game-pod-349252537194?invite=fc285de0-86ea-45c4-ab3f-8dcc82b8cad8&referralID=4tVUzsxlCC

Find us on instagram: longgame.heatedrivalry.pod

Write to us: longgamepod2481@gmail.com

Find Declan:

Instagram: declan712

Tiktok: declanmccallion1

Find Silvan:

Instagram: Silvates

Tiktok: silvates1

Listen to the Podcast on:

Apple podcast:

Spotify podcast:

Amazon podcast:

Watch it on youtube: https://youtu.be/NqD-jMfkq7g

Listen to Silvan’s ‘Silvates’ podcast here:

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/silvates/id1531620495

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2xMX59teVzpf6M86Cv7WG9?si=016f5477aed14697

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Next Door and Its Impact

02:41 Caroline's Directorial Debut and Personal Connection

06:01 The Unique Appeal of Next Door

10:20 Creating a Wholesome Queer Narrative

12:03 The Importance of Diverse Queer Representation

15:18 Audience Reactions and Surprises

16:59 Caroline's Journey to Directing

20:01 The Role of Script Supervision

25:24 The Importance of Preparation in Filmmaking

35:16 Preparation and Respect for the Crew

36:06 Directorial Styles and Preferences

38:06 Inspirations from Iconic Directors

39:39 The Journey with Candy Jar Productions

42:00 Resonating with the Story of Nextdoor

46:28 Creating a Lighthearted Queer Romance

48:52 Vertical Storytelling: A New Format

54:27 The Impact of Second Screen Watching

01:03:04 The Future of Vertical Storytelling

01:04:32 Opportunities with Candy Jar Productions

01:06:49 The Impact of Fan Creations

01:09:08 Adapting Queer Stories

01:16:01 Advice for Aspiring Filmmakers

01:19:42 Quickfire Questions with Caroline

01:24:30 The Heart of 'Next Door'

Declan and Silvan dive into Part 4 of our Heated Rivalry book review series. This is one of the most important introductions in the entire story, Rose.

We compare Rachel Reid's novel with the TV adaptation, and explore why Rose feels different on the page versus on screen. I’m e discuss how Sophie Nélisse's performance elevated the character and why Shane and Rose's relationship serves such an important purpose in Shane's journey toward self-acceptance.

Along the way, we unpack the idea of "meeting the right woman," reflect on our own experiences of questioning identity, and discuss how both the book and show portray the pressure to follow a traditional path before embracing who you really are.

We also spend time breaking down the club scene, from wardrobe choices and celebrity culture to the emotional tension between Shane and Ilya. Does Shane and Rose's whirlwind romance feel longer than it actually is? We dfiscuss if Rachel Reid missed an opportunity to explore Shane's perspective more deeply during one of the story's most pivotal moments.

This episode is packed with character analysis, adaptation comparisons, personal reflections, and plenty of tangents about dancing, fashion, skinny jeans, and why Rose remains one of the most beloved characters in the Heated Rivalry universe.

The next episode of the podcast will be published on Sunday 14th June.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Rose and Character Comparisons

02:41 The Role of Rose in Shane's Journey

05:50 Language and Feminist Commentary in Character Dialogue

08:09 Shane's Internal Struggle with Identity

11:17 The Dynamics of Shane and Rose's Relationship

13:18 The Impact of Time on Relationships in the Story

16:04 Celebrity Culture and Public Perception

19:00 The Club Scene: Book vs. TV Show

22:08 Fashion and Social Expectations in Club Culture

29:00 Body Image and Insecurities

31:56 Fashion and Identity

35:51 Atmosphere in Storytelling

39:21 Dancing Dynamics

44:28 Sexual Tension and Character Development

49:08 Missed Opportunities in Narrative

Join our Long Game Podcast Book Club on Fable to read along with us each week.: https://fable.co/club/long-game-pod-book-club-with-long-game-pod-349252537194?invite=fc285de0-86ea-45c4-ab3f-8dcc82b8cad8&referralID=4tVUzsxlCC

Find us on instagram: longgame.heatedrivalry.pod

Write to us: longgamepod2481@gmail.com

Find Declan:

Instagram: declan712

Tiktok: declanmccallion1

Find Silvan:

Instagram: Silvates

Tiktok: silvates1

Listen to the Podcast on:

Apple podcast:

Spotify podcast:

Amazon podcast:

Watch it on youtube: https://youtu.be/hnlLC04hXjU

Listen to Silvan’s ‘Silvates’ podcast here:

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/silvates/id1531620495

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2xMX59teVzpf6M86Cv7WG9?si=016f5477aed14697