What do you think?
Rate this book
Glasgow Lads #2
Playing to Win
Colin MacDuff has nothing. Growing up in a Glasgow slum, he learned never to trust, never to cry—and never EVER to be at the mercy of anyone, especially rich men. So how did he end up half-naked at a rave with Scotland’s hottest young aristocrat?
Lord Andrew Sunderland has everything. From ancestral castle to posh prep school, he’s spent his life wrapping others around his wee finger. With a social circle full of celebrities and politicians, nothing can stop Andrew’s rise to the top. Nothing, that is, save his desire for a dirt-poor, wolf-eyed footballer whose scars and tattoos tell unbearable tales.
Colin and Andrew come from different worlds, believe in different worlds, want different worlds. Yet every time they touch, all worlds fall away.
Set amid the fiery Scottish-independence struggle, this searing gay romance tells the story of two men who must lose everything to win each other's hearts.
Lord Andrew Sunderland has everything. From ancestral castle to posh prep school, he’s spent his life wrapping others around his wee finger. With a social circle full of celebrities and politicians, nothing can stop Andrew’s rise to the top. Nothing, that is, save his desire for a dirt-poor, wolf-eyed footballer whose scars and tattoos tell unbearable tales.
Colin and Andrew come from different worlds, believe in different worlds, want different worlds. Yet every time they touch, all worlds fall away.
Set amid the fiery Scottish-independence struggle, this searing gay romance tells the story of two men who must lose everything to win each other's hearts.
406 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 18, 2015
187 people are currently reading
1153 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.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 326 reviews
February 23, 2016
~4.5~
Set in 2014 during Scotland's vote for independence, Playing to Win is a story of class struggle, privilege, and poverty.
It is also a love story about two men on opposites sides of a political divide: Colin, fiercely proud, passionate, and firmly on the side of voting yes for a free Scotland, and Andrew, a charming, wealthy aristocrat who wants to preserve the union and with it the status quo that serves his family.
Colin and Andrew are fire and water, earth and air. They consume each other. They debate, fight, make up, and make love (they call it fucking, but we know better).
Both are imperfect, complex, REAL. Raised with a bipolar mother, Colin doesn't feel like he's enough for beautiful Lord Andrew, who was born with a golden spoon in his mouth.
But Andrew comes to understand Colin like no one else, and he's willing to take a leap of faith that could ruin him. Even when Colin pushes him away, Andrew holds on.
Cockburn is a strong writer, and her words make Glasgow come alive. There is intrigue, futball, friendship, family, sacrifice, sex, and love, especially love.
This book crept up on me and wouldn't let me go. It's romantic, gritty, TRUE, and the HEA, when it comes, will have you smiling through tears.
Set in 2014 during Scotland's vote for independence, Playing to Win is a story of class struggle, privilege, and poverty.
It is also a love story about two men on opposites sides of a political divide: Colin, fiercely proud, passionate, and firmly on the side of voting yes for a free Scotland, and Andrew, a charming, wealthy aristocrat who wants to preserve the union and with it the status quo that serves his family.
Colin and Andrew are fire and water, earth and air. They consume each other. They debate, fight, make up, and make love (they call it fucking, but we know better).
It was like dying and being reborn ... as if one moment he was only his own, and in the next, he was lost to this man beside him. Lost, but also found.
Both are imperfect, complex, REAL. Raised with a bipolar mother, Colin doesn't feel like he's enough for beautiful Lord Andrew, who was born with a golden spoon in his mouth.
But Andrew comes to understand Colin like no one else, and he's willing to take a leap of faith that could ruin him. Even when Colin pushes him away, Andrew holds on.
Cockburn is a strong writer, and her words make Glasgow come alive. There is intrigue, futball, friendship, family, sacrifice, sex, and love, especially love.
This book crept up on me and wouldn't let me go. It's romantic, gritty, TRUE, and the HEA, when it comes, will have you smiling through tears.
"I know I should say some pure charming words just now to win you back ... But the only words I've got are "sorry" and "I'm." [Colin] sighed. "Fuck. I mean, not necessarily in that order."
"You can't win me back ... You can't win back what you never lost."
April 6, 2021
3.75 wee stars
Huh! I am liking this series more than I thought I would.
Warning! This picture has got nothing to do with the MCs, It's just that daamn! A Silver Fox in Kilt. Me lovey.
Back to the book. I enjoyed the story though at times the political stuff was a bit too heavy for me. The writing was good and flowed so well. I love that there was some humor sprinkled throughout the book. I found myself loling hard. Loling is really important in the midst of all the heavy stuff.
Our MCs were so different in all aspects of life, We have a Lord Andrew and Colin. Andrew was so clueless and said some dumb things about Colin's life. I wanted to slap him hard but then again I understood him. He was used to all the richy richy stuff and had no idea how the other half lives. Good thing Colin came into his life. I ended up liking him a lot.
I loved Colin, He made reading this book easier. He dealt with his situation without complaining. I wanted to wrap him in a very tight warm blankety fluffy hug and protect him from this world.
Together as a couple, took me time to feel the connection but once I did it was a smooth couply stuff sailing.
The author really did a good job showing the divide between the rich and poor without being overdramatic of preachy.
The ending was a little too OTT action stuff. I just couldn't buy it. for that this book gets, 3.75 stars.
Overall, I had a great time with this book and thanks to my amazing buddy readers for the wonderful time. I enjoyed it more.
Huh! I am liking this series more than I thought I would.
Warning! This picture has got nothing to do with the MCs, It's just that daamn! A Silver Fox in Kilt. Me lovey.
Back to the book. I enjoyed the story though at times the political stuff was a bit too heavy for me. The writing was good and flowed so well. I love that there was some humor sprinkled throughout the book. I found myself loling hard. Loling is really important in the midst of all the heavy stuff.
Our MCs were so different in all aspects of life, We have a Lord Andrew and Colin. Andrew was so clueless and said some dumb things about Colin's life. I wanted to slap him hard but then again I understood him. He was used to all the richy richy stuff and had no idea how the other half lives. Good thing Colin came into his life. I ended up liking him a lot.
I loved Colin, He made reading this book easier. He dealt with his situation without complaining. I wanted to wrap him in a very tight warm blankety fluffy hug and protect him from this world.
Together as a couple, took me time to feel the connection but once I did it was a smooth couply stuff sailing.
The author really did a good job showing the divide between the rich and poor without being overdramatic of preachy.
The ending was a little too OTT action stuff. I just couldn't buy it. for that this book gets, 3.75 stars.
Overall, I had a great time with this book and thanks to my amazing buddy readers for the wonderful time. I enjoyed it more.
February 15, 2021
"He was keeping his composure rather well, he thought, until the fireplace rug suddenly stood up and shook itself.
"Oh my God, it's a dog," he blurted, nearly spilling his drink. As he recovered, Colin was grateful he hadn't said Fucking hell! or worse."
FUCKING. FINALLY. What baffles me the most is the fact that reading a good romance, I'm tempted to think that my expectations don't seem so high, but I cannot forget that it took me *looks at feed* five romance novels to fall in love - which would be ironic if it wasn't that depressing.
Thank you, Avery Cockburn, for not taking romance novels readers for morons
Because honestly, I come across so many poorly written ones that I'm starting to feel as if authors just do not try. Alright, I do realize that it seems like a very harsh statement, and perhaps it is, but I'm quite tired of reading the same plot over and over again with idiotic dialogues and clumsy narrative, nicknames for cocks and infuriating characters.
So, there. Playing to Win was everything I need in a romance novel, and I'm very much thankful for that.
First of all, I must admit that I'm a little bit in love with Colin. How couldn't I, really, when the guy is the perfect mix between fierce and oddly adorable? I'll tell you what, I can't help. The passion he shows in every second of his life makes him just too endearing for me to not care deeply about him. But although Colin quickly won me, Andrew has also great things to offer with his wit and charm. He made me laugh, okay? This does not mean that I never wanted to slap him. I did, but I found him likeable all the same. Oh, yeah, these two are not supposed to work, but they do anyway and it brings something more to their relationship that I grandly appreciated.
Moreover, their chemistry is off the chart and you know what? They feel real. Yes they screw up and yes they say harsh things that they do not mean sometimes but every time it happens - every time - they do not enter in OTT territory and react stupidly. Nah. They - wait for it - talk about it and try to fix their problems like adults. HOW AWESOME IS THAT? Given the fact that stupid misunderstandings are part of my top pet peeves, you can easily infer how amazing I thought it was. So, so refreshing.
Ah, politics. It doesn't show on here because as a teacher I learnt to keep my political opinions for myself (we're super strict on this in France) but I love politics and the dynamics of a debate - okay, except with the racist far right because I CANNOT keep my temper in check. Going in there, I had no idea that the issue of Scotland's referendum for independence would be such important for the plot but I absolutely loved that. Beware, if you don't care about politics, it could annoy you, but personally, I prefer my romances with real life issues than strictly focused on some sexual feast. I also loved the fact that Andrew and Colin weren't on the same political spectrum, because it made for the most interesting arguments - especially for me who knows nearly nothing about Scotland and their struggles.
Indeed the secondary characters weren't one-dimensional but rather believable and interesting. If they were part of the background more often than not, they did not simply appear when the main characters needed them, and for that I'm grateful. There's a hard balance to find between being too blank and stealing the show, and in my opinion their characterization was well-done in that aspect, because in the end, I want to know more about them.
The writing is honestly one of the best I read all year when it comes to romance novels. It flows smoothly, is brighten with sparks of humor and the banter! The banter was fantastic. There was some Scottish slang thrown in it, but if as a French, I can understand, I'll assume that it won't be a bother for English speakers either. As for the pacing, did I say that I was never bored? No? Well, I never was. The only complaint I could have lies in the events surrounding the ending, which I found a little hard to believe and rather over the top. But oh well. When a book is that good, I don't care.
Also, the sex was very good. Hehe.
For more of my reviews, please visit:
January 10, 2016
This was my favorite of the series so far. I loved both the characters, maybe even more because they had some sizable flaws and blind spots, especially at first. The story did dip into melodrama at the end, perhaps to give a shortcut to wrap up a bunch of loose ends that otherwise would have taken another novel. That's one downside to a series with a new couple each book - when a story really could use two books to work through all the issues, there isn't space to do that. But by that point, I was sufficiently in love with both men, their conflict, their cause, and the Glasgow they were living in (complete with lovely hints of local dialect), not to care much. A book I literally did not put down, even to check how my own new release was doing, until I was finished with the story. So it gets the full five stars.
Lord Andrew is an upper-class... not twit, because he's smart and sometimes painfully self-aware. But a frivolous lightweight, on the surface -- the kind of society guy who tweets every course of his meal, and every witty comment he comes up with, for the amusement of his electronic followers. The kind of guy who might sneak out incognito, and shag a low-class stranger, but who'll never spend the night or call the man again.
He's recently come out of the closet, which took some guts given his family's staunch conservative views. To balance that out, he's bending over backwards to appear, on the surface, like the kind of lightweight blue-blood who belongs in high-society social registers and parties, despite the gay. He has ambitions to gradually move into politics and be able to express his opinions and do something that matters, and he has to be accepted by the conservative establishment for that. Then he meets Colin. For the second time.
Colin MacDuff is a 19 year old man aiming to become self-made, but still struggling in a hand-to-mouth life. He grew up with a bipolar mum, a sister with severe asthma, and a dad who tried to take care of them all. His father often couldn't work, due to family demands, so they've lived on various types of relief assistance. When the funds got reduced or cut, it affected having food on the table or shoes to wear or paying the electric bill. Rock-bottom city poverty. Colin's in college now, aiming to graduate and find a decent job and never depend on charity again. His LGBT football team is his joy and his best source of friends and moral support, but he's a bit at loose ends, after an injury that keeps him from playing.
Colin had to grow up tough and self-reliant. And he knows at bitter first-hand how hard most poor people work to keep their heads above water. He hates rich people who talk about how cutting assistance to people barely getting by will encourage them to try harder. As the debate over vote for Scotland's independence gathers steam, he's fervent about the need to control the nation's government, funds, tax spending - he has a vision of a better nation that might take care of its poor and its environment far more than the distant English government.
So when he meets Lord Andrew, although he realizes this was a guy he was hot for and almost slept with once, he should have no further interest in an aristocrat. Andrew embodies everything he disdains about the English, despite being Scots himself. But he also, somehow, embodies everything that Colin finds attractive. And when Colin gets a first glimpse of Andrew's deeply hidden daredevil side, he can't help wanting a taste of that.
These two men are perfectly matched on some levels, and an awful mismatch on others. Andrew truly believes in a United Kingdom. Colin is campaigning his heart out for an independent Scotland. Andrew can throw someone a bill worth a week of Colin's groceries, just because he's too wealthy to find any smaller change. They should walk away from each other.
But it's not just the sex that keeps them coming back together. Each of them reveals, in quiet moments, parts of themselves they don't let anyone else see. And that connection is worth fighting for. When they're not fighting over something else...
I loved the real conflicts and struggles these guys had. I liked their flaws and the slow way they came to see each other's side of life. The story easily held my attention, and the little glimpses of Fergus and John and the rest were just a small bonus. A few of the secondary characters were one-dimensional but most had nuances and added to the feel of the story. And despite the dramatic ending, it was the small things, the little moments, that stand out in my mind. A fish tank. A pony. A little sister's teasing. A condom. A time when each guy violated what had felt like an unchangeable facet of their life to make the other fee cared for. Moments that made the guys who they were.
Another great addition to this excellent series.
Lord Andrew is an upper-class... not twit, because he's smart and sometimes painfully self-aware. But a frivolous lightweight, on the surface -- the kind of society guy who tweets every course of his meal, and every witty comment he comes up with, for the amusement of his electronic followers. The kind of guy who might sneak out incognito, and shag a low-class stranger, but who'll never spend the night or call the man again.
He's recently come out of the closet, which took some guts given his family's staunch conservative views. To balance that out, he's bending over backwards to appear, on the surface, like the kind of lightweight blue-blood who belongs in high-society social registers and parties, despite the gay. He has ambitions to gradually move into politics and be able to express his opinions and do something that matters, and he has to be accepted by the conservative establishment for that. Then he meets Colin. For the second time.
Colin MacDuff is a 19 year old man aiming to become self-made, but still struggling in a hand-to-mouth life. He grew up with a bipolar mum, a sister with severe asthma, and a dad who tried to take care of them all. His father often couldn't work, due to family demands, so they've lived on various types of relief assistance. When the funds got reduced or cut, it affected having food on the table or shoes to wear or paying the electric bill. Rock-bottom city poverty. Colin's in college now, aiming to graduate and find a decent job and never depend on charity again. His LGBT football team is his joy and his best source of friends and moral support, but he's a bit at loose ends, after an injury that keeps him from playing.
Colin had to grow up tough and self-reliant. And he knows at bitter first-hand how hard most poor people work to keep their heads above water. He hates rich people who talk about how cutting assistance to people barely getting by will encourage them to try harder. As the debate over vote for Scotland's independence gathers steam, he's fervent about the need to control the nation's government, funds, tax spending - he has a vision of a better nation that might take care of its poor and its environment far more than the distant English government.
So when he meets Lord Andrew, although he realizes this was a guy he was hot for and almost slept with once, he should have no further interest in an aristocrat. Andrew embodies everything he disdains about the English, despite being Scots himself. But he also, somehow, embodies everything that Colin finds attractive. And when Colin gets a first glimpse of Andrew's deeply hidden daredevil side, he can't help wanting a taste of that.
These two men are perfectly matched on some levels, and an awful mismatch on others. Andrew truly believes in a United Kingdom. Colin is campaigning his heart out for an independent Scotland. Andrew can throw someone a bill worth a week of Colin's groceries, just because he's too wealthy to find any smaller change. They should walk away from each other.
But it's not just the sex that keeps them coming back together. Each of them reveals, in quiet moments, parts of themselves they don't let anyone else see. And that connection is worth fighting for. When they're not fighting over something else...
I loved the real conflicts and struggles these guys had. I liked their flaws and the slow way they came to see each other's side of life. The story easily held my attention, and the little glimpses of Fergus and John and the rest were just a small bonus. A few of the secondary characters were one-dimensional but most had nuances and added to the feel of the story. And despite the dramatic ending, it was the small things, the little moments, that stand out in my mind. A fish tank. A pony. A little sister's teasing. A condom. A time when each guy violated what had felt like an unchangeable facet of their life to make the other fee cared for. Moments that made the guys who they were.
Another great addition to this excellent series.
April 6, 2021
A week ago I was ready to give up on reading. Not forever, of course, but let's just say, "indefinitely." Too many recent disappointments, too much mediocrity, too little return on the investment of my time and attention -- I felt deflated and discouraged. But first I had this buddy read scheduled, so I had to stick around for that.
Lo and behold...
We have a winner!
Even though one of the MCs seemed custom-designed to push my buttons (and trigger my smacking reflex), even though the non-romance part of the storyline revolved around politics, even though there were a few whackadoodle moments that maybe wouldn't hold up to strict scrutiny -- this was a great read. As soon as I finished, I picked up #2.5, and immediately after that #3 -- even though it was 1AM by then. So, hey, looks like I'm back on the reading wagon.
I'd already thought of Avery Cockburn as a good writer, having read the previous two entries in the series, but this one turned me into a fan. I simply love her writing. Unfortunately I'm too sleep-deprived to write a real review (plus I want to get back to reading book 3), but this review by Meags is one of my favorites, so I recommend you give it a look.
(Thank you Ele, Gabi, Linda, Rosa, & Shile! I'd probably be taking a long break from reading if we hadn't had this on our calendar.)
Lo and behold...
We have a winner!
Even though one of the MCs seemed custom-designed to push my buttons (and trigger my smacking reflex), even though the non-romance part of the storyline revolved around politics, even though there were a few whackadoodle moments that maybe wouldn't hold up to strict scrutiny -- this was a great read. As soon as I finished, I picked up #2.5, and immediately after that #3 -- even though it was 1AM by then. So, hey, looks like I'm back on the reading wagon.
I'd already thought of Avery Cockburn as a good writer, having read the previous two entries in the series, but this one turned me into a fan. I simply love her writing. Unfortunately I'm too sleep-deprived to write a real review (plus I want to get back to reading book 3), but this review by Meags is one of my favorites, so I recommend you give it a look.
(Thank you Ele, Gabi, Linda, Rosa, & Shile! I'd probably be taking a long break from reading if we hadn't had this on our calendar.)
February 6, 2017
I was a bit dissapointed by the first book in this series. This one however was way better, at least, that's how I feel.
This has mostly to do with Colin I think, because I have loved that man since book 1 and after reading book 2, I only love him more.
I always enjoy a good "opposites attract" book, which is exactly what this is. These two men are completely different. Not only are they from different worlds, but they are also on different sides. And with sides, I mean the independence of Scotland.
Colin is pretty poor. His family lives in a small flat in Glasgow. His mom is bi-polar and in and out of institutions, his dad has no job, his 13 year old sister has severe astma and they are surviving on benefits. Colin has two passions in life. His footballclub "The Warriors" and Scotland. Life has pretty much treated Colin like shit and Colin believes an independent Scotland will make things better, not only for him, but for people like him and his family. Even though Colin's life is not an easy one, he was quite the spark plug and I really loved the man and his love for Scotland.
Lord Andrew is an aristocrat, who has a completely different kind of lifestyle. He never had to struggle financially. His family owns multiple homes, which includes a castle and and a nice appartment for Andrew himself. Andrew strives for a career in politics and he wants whatever his wealthy family wants and what would be best for them...for Scotland to stay in the union. So he is a No voter.
When these two men come together and sparks start flying. They argue about everything, especially politics but even though they are so completely different, they are a perfect match in the bedroom. They really set the sheets on fire !!!!
What starts out as something purely physical soon becomes way more. But how can these two make it work when so much stands between them....
I have to say that I had a hard time in the beginning of the book. Especially Andrew got on my nerves. Then... things changed. I have to say that Lord Andrew really won me over. I didn't expect to start loving him, but I certainly did....he was the perfect man for Colin.
Normally politics doesn't do it for me, but to me this was a very interesting read. I am going to Scotland myself next week and I can't wait.
So if you don't mind the politics and you love hot men in kilts, sports, romance, steamy encounters, a laugh and a cry, then you should definitely give this book a try.
January 22, 2017
Ok I liked this much better than the previous books of the series. Either I'm getting used to the Scottish accent or it isn't that prominent here. Probably the first.
I think I would have liked this more had it been shorter. The length plus the accent and the political issues were a bit too heavy for me.
The time frame is 2014 and the setting is Scotland amid its struggle for independence from the UK union. Hats off to the author because despite the fact that she really doesn't shy away from the polical and social matters in Scotland, which were basically the core of the book, she really wowed me with the romance.
This is not just an opposites attract story. Colin and Andrew fall in completely opposite sides of the political spectrum. Colin has nothing, he and his family live on social benefits. Andrew is an aristocrat and wants to get involved in politics. His views and behaviour pissed me off at the beginning. But he's a product of his environment and by the end of the book he changed a lot of his views. They constantly fight about politics, but the chemistry and the connection they share is just too much to ignore. It has to be in order to make them overlook the rest.
And can we talk about the sex? Um...holy shit. Andrew is practising yoga. Needless to say, there are acrobatics included. Very intense and meaningful sex scenes.
"“Look.” With his left arm, he lifted Andrew up against his chest. With the other hand, Colin ripped off the mask, then seized Andrew’s chin, forcing him to look at the mirror. “Remember this, okay? Never forget how I had you. How much you loved it.”
And when September comes and Colin loses his shit, because we all know what happened, Andrew really surprised me...that bastard.
“You can’t win me back.” Andrew swallowed to keep from choking on his tears. “You can’t win back what you never lost.”
So the series is starting to win me over. I wonder whose story is next...
Also...
June 19, 2017
4.5 Stars
I absolutely loved this story.
In the previous book, we were introduced to toffy Lord Andrew Sunderland and cheeky football player Colin MacDuff. Here, they come together is spectacular fashion. The spark between the two is immediate. Although, initially it feels very enemies-to-lovers in nature - with lots of insulting banter and some fairly intense hate-fucking – the combustible attraction that Andrew and Colin share quickly develops into a powerful intellectual and emotional bond that neither has come close to experiencing before.
While they are clearly sexually and intellectually compatible, Andrew and Colin are like night and day in most other ways that count. One is born of privilege, one is born of poverty; they stand so far from each other in terms of world views, personal experiences and political beliefs, that their success as a potential couple seems unobtainable in the beginning. Yet they just work – and thank god for that! They challenge each other to think beyond their own experiences and needs, to be better, to be more. They may come from worlds apart but both men are literally the best thing that has ever happened to the other. It was truly a pleasure to be privy to their wonderful love story.
This book is set during the lead-up to the Scottish Independence Referendum of 2014. By all means, this was a major event in Scottish history, and, unfortunately, one I knew very little about until now. I was wholly fascinated by what I learned reading this story. Andrew and Colin come down on opposite sides of the vote, and their heartfelt and impassioned opinions on the matter were highly enlightening and deeply affecting. I didn’t expect to be so engrossed by a story with such political prominence, but I was completely blown away by the whole thing – so much so, that I’ve spent a good portion of my weekend doing my own online reading regarding Scotland’s ongoing fight for Independence. It’s truly riveting stuff.
As much as I adored the beautifully moving relationship between Andrew and Colin, I find myself mostly awestruck by the backdrop themes within this book and the way they were masterfully handled, particularly the unbiased social commentary surrounding the fight for Scottish Independence.
I am continually impressed by this series as a whole. I believe Cockburn is a fabulous writer and I’m looking forward to reading any and all of her future offerings with greedy delight.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
I absolutely loved this story.
In the previous book, we were introduced to toffy Lord Andrew Sunderland and cheeky football player Colin MacDuff. Here, they come together is spectacular fashion. The spark between the two is immediate. Although, initially it feels very enemies-to-lovers in nature - with lots of insulting banter and some fairly intense hate-fucking – the combustible attraction that Andrew and Colin share quickly develops into a powerful intellectual and emotional bond that neither has come close to experiencing before.
While they are clearly sexually and intellectually compatible, Andrew and Colin are like night and day in most other ways that count. One is born of privilege, one is born of poverty; they stand so far from each other in terms of world views, personal experiences and political beliefs, that their success as a potential couple seems unobtainable in the beginning. Yet they just work – and thank god for that! They challenge each other to think beyond their own experiences and needs, to be better, to be more. They may come from worlds apart but both men are literally the best thing that has ever happened to the other. It was truly a pleasure to be privy to their wonderful love story.
This book is set during the lead-up to the Scottish Independence Referendum of 2014. By all means, this was a major event in Scottish history, and, unfortunately, one I knew very little about until now. I was wholly fascinated by what I learned reading this story. Andrew and Colin come down on opposite sides of the vote, and their heartfelt and impassioned opinions on the matter were highly enlightening and deeply affecting. I didn’t expect to be so engrossed by a story with such political prominence, but I was completely blown away by the whole thing – so much so, that I’ve spent a good portion of my weekend doing my own online reading regarding Scotland’s ongoing fight for Independence. It’s truly riveting stuff.
As much as I adored the beautifully moving relationship between Andrew and Colin, I find myself mostly awestruck by the backdrop themes within this book and the way they were masterfully handled, particularly the unbiased social commentary surrounding the fight for Scottish Independence.
I am continually impressed by this series as a whole. I believe Cockburn is a fabulous writer and I’m looking forward to reading any and all of her future offerings with greedy delight.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
July 8, 2018
4,5 Leí este libro por recomendación de Elsa Bravante y no puedo estar más contenta. Me ha gustado mucho la apasionada relación entre Lord Andrew y Colin, dos chicos muy jóvenes de clases sociales muy diferentes y con ideas políticas muy enfrentadas en los meses previos al referéndum por la independencia en Escocia de 2014. Los protagonistas son maravillosos, las escenas sexuales tan calientes como era de esperar y cómo surge y crece el amor entre ellos, a pesar de todos los impedimentos, muy bonito. Muy recomendable.
June 9, 2017
4 Stars
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, this series has some meat to it. Yes, that meat too, but it’s about way more than footy, which hardly gets any serious play time here. Just as angsty, and just as steamy, this really focuses on class distinction and the politics of an independent vs unified Scotland.
First you have Colin. He’s been beat down in life quite a bit, and he’s trying to better his station, planning for his future, all the while taking care of his family who’s hit a lot of rough times. He’s run across Andrew a few times, and though he hates everything that “his lordship” represents, he can’t help but be dazzled by him.
Then you have Andrew, who hasn’t had it too tough at all being an aristocrat. He’s definitely high profile and he definitely feels the pressure of having come out, needing to maintain a certain persona to cement his goals for a future in politics. Despite being on opposite sides of a national debate, he can’t get the rough and tumble Colin off his mind, knowing that Colin’s probably the worst idea for his reputation and ambitions.
What stands out is the raw vulnerability here. Each scared and reluctant to put too much of themselves on the line but nonetheless do. Cockburn never seems to shirk on the tough topics, and the differences between Colin and Andrew are stark and vast in all things important - mainly revolving around the huge disparity in their social status and political party ideals. Somehow though, instead of being repulsed by such, they are passionately drawn to each other, knowing it’s quite ridiculous to even contemplate any kind of future they might have together, because it could never, ever work.
So yes, this was full of feels running the gamut from despair to triumph, from humor to sobering truths, from anxiety to empowerment. Again seriously sexy, topical, and teeming with conflict, making this a fully realized story showing love changing and trying to conquer all.
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, this series has some meat to it. Yes, that meat too, but it’s about way more than footy, which hardly gets any serious play time here. Just as angsty, and just as steamy, this really focuses on class distinction and the politics of an independent vs unified Scotland.
First you have Colin. He’s been beat down in life quite a bit, and he’s trying to better his station, planning for his future, all the while taking care of his family who’s hit a lot of rough times. He’s run across Andrew a few times, and though he hates everything that “his lordship” represents, he can’t help but be dazzled by him.
Then you have Andrew, who hasn’t had it too tough at all being an aristocrat. He’s definitely high profile and he definitely feels the pressure of having come out, needing to maintain a certain persona to cement his goals for a future in politics. Despite being on opposite sides of a national debate, he can’t get the rough and tumble Colin off his mind, knowing that Colin’s probably the worst idea for his reputation and ambitions.
What stands out is the raw vulnerability here. Each scared and reluctant to put too much of themselves on the line but nonetheless do. Cockburn never seems to shirk on the tough topics, and the differences between Colin and Andrew are stark and vast in all things important - mainly revolving around the huge disparity in their social status and political party ideals. Somehow though, instead of being repulsed by such, they are passionately drawn to each other, knowing it’s quite ridiculous to even contemplate any kind of future they might have together, because it could never, ever work.
So yes, this was full of feels running the gamut from despair to triumph, from humor to sobering truths, from anxiety to empowerment. Again seriously sexy, topical, and teeming with conflict, making this a fully realized story showing love changing and trying to conquer all.
January 24, 2019
4,25 stars
It's my first book by this author and I really loved it. Even if we get A LOT of political talk, the romance was incredible. Andrew and Colin were as different as night and day, but they really were great together.
The sex was smoking hot and the ending was super sweet.
I enjoyed the writing and all the Scottish words. Will be checking other books by this author.
It's my first book by this author and I really loved it. Even if we get A LOT of political talk, the romance was incredible. Andrew and Colin were as different as night and day, but they really were great together.
The sex was smoking hot and the ending was super sweet.
I enjoyed the writing and all the Scottish words. Will be checking other books by this author.
June 23, 2016
4,5 Avery, que talento, por favorrr!!!
Debería hacer una SEÑORA RESEÑA, porque este libro se lo merece y mucho, pero RL sometimes is a RS, así que solamente puedo hacer copy/paste, un poco de fangirling (Andrew te amo por siempre y para siempre. Colin, my bombón <3<3<3) y decirles a todos los que no leyeron esta serie que lo hagan...pronto!!
“From the day we met,”Andrew continued, “there was something about you that I knew could strip me down to my core. I knew that with you, I could stop pretending. And it terrified me, because I’m so very good at pretending.” He lifted a hand out of the water to smooth back an errant lock of hair. “But I’m a better man for knowing you, so I just want to personally congratulate myself on having the courage to stick it out.”
Debería hacer una SEÑORA RESEÑA, porque este libro se lo merece y mucho, pero RL sometimes is a RS, así que solamente puedo hacer copy/paste, un poco de fangirling (Andrew te amo por siempre y para siempre. Colin, my bombón <3<3<3) y decirles a todos los que no leyeron esta serie que lo hagan...pronto!!
“From the day we met,”Andrew continued, “there was something about you that I knew could strip me down to my core. I knew that with you, I could stop pretending. And it terrified me, because I’m so very good at pretending.” He lifted a hand out of the water to smooth back an errant lock of hair. “But I’m a better man for knowing you, so I just want to personally congratulate myself on having the courage to stick it out.”
July 1, 2024
4 stars.
Captivating mm romance, in the series' football-setting, and like the first installment deeply centered in Scotland's (Glasgow's) politics.
The physical intimacy between Colin and Andrew started early on, fast and intense. That's not something I usually care for, and for quite a while I was a bit apprehensive about how both went all in physically but at the same time kept most of themselves hidden from the other. Then their relationship slowly developed in a romance, with hurdles and draw backs between them, and I found that part done very well. Their connection and feelings got more believable and felt real.
I felt a bit disconnected to Colin and Andrew at times, maybe because they both were 19 and 20 years old, but from the start they acted more like in their mid twenties or even thirties. This (lack of) feelings on my side might be connected to their rather fast developing physical relationship, while both young men held so much of themselves back, though.
Again, like in the first book, I loved the character development and relationship development.
The political context was intense, and the author kept me interested and glued to the nearly 400 pages.
Captivating mm romance, in the series' football-setting, and like the first installment deeply centered in Scotland's (Glasgow's) politics.
The physical intimacy between Colin and Andrew started early on, fast and intense. That's not something I usually care for, and for quite a while I was a bit apprehensive about how both went all in physically but at the same time kept most of themselves hidden from the other. Then their relationship slowly developed in a romance, with hurdles and draw backs between them, and I found that part done very well. Their connection and feelings got more believable and felt real.
I felt a bit disconnected to Colin and Andrew at times, maybe because they both were 19 and 20 years old, but from the start they acted more like in their mid twenties or even thirties. This (lack of) feelings on my side might be connected to their rather fast developing physical relationship, while both young men held so much of themselves back, though.
Again, like in the first book, I loved the character development and relationship development.
The political context was intense, and the author kept me interested and glued to the nearly 400 pages.
January 20, 2021
Andrew and Colin are one of the most beautiful, honest and sexy couples ever. I loved everything in this book. Every wee thing: the banter was top notch and the setting —Scotland independence referendum— was so perfectly developed that we breathed Andrew and Colin’s thoughts and feelings through it. Brilliant.
Also, one of the sexiest books I’ve read.
Also, one of the sexiest books I’ve read.
September 17, 2016
Iamaddictedtotheseladsandcan’tstopreadingandIneedmoremoremore…
*gasp*
Okay, let me try that again. First you should know I’m running on very little sleep, actually I am running on brogue at the moment. I’m also going to gush and squee and do cartwheels for the next few minutes. Now that you have been forewarned, I can continue. I couldn’t put this book down until I finished, I just had to know. Considering this segment of The Glasgow Lads is nearly 400 hundred pages, I sacrificed sleep and ignored my family for 36 hours. Take this into consideration before you begin.
There is nothing I love more than favorite MC’s competitions. I thought I loved Colin the most. Then I decided I loved Andrew more. And then I went back and forth again and again and again. Obviously I loved them both but I especially loved them together. I’d be thrilled to know who your favorite lad is.
What's to like: Lord Andrew and Colin come from two totally different worlds. They are about as far apart as they can possibly be. I’m not talking about geographically but in every other sense. Clearly Andrew has been born into a role with a predisposed future. He is a Lord and therefore, he has certain duties and expectations. Then a young hot (headed) footie player charges into his life. When hormones and balls battle each other at rave, he discovers he’s finally met his match. Andrew yearns for someone who will challenge him and see past his pretty boy exterior and Colin has no problem stepping up to the plate. When the sparks of love ignite between these two, nothing can stop it…not even a world shattering election. Scotland is facing a pivotal decision and Colin and Andrew are on opposite sides of the fight. Can they find a way to be together when their worlds are shifting in contrary positions? One of them is bound to lose but will they lose each other as well?
What's to love: Holy emotional walloping! I’m exhausted, bruised and…smiling like loon. It is impossible that Lord Andrew and Colin can make it. There is absolutely no sound reason as to why they should survive the insurmountable feats facing them. They just…aren’t meant to be. Ha! You didn’t believe that, did you? Nope, neither did I. They are too stubborn for their own good and prove every headshaker wrong. In spite of their differences they give each other something no one has ever gifted them with before. They allow each other to view life from a different perspective. They must meet in the middle but even half way will test everything they have. It’s so amazing to witness. Layers peel away and there are times it gets really rough. The ultimate sacrifice is given and I thought I might pass out from oxygen deprivation due to extreme breath holding. I respect how Avery pulled everything together, for it’s quite an accomplishment.
Beware of: A political driven plot doused with a cheeky tender romance. Avery doesn’t shy around harsh realities and brings severe themes front and center.
This book is for: Kilt lovers, forbidden love seekers and those of us with a sweet spot for mouthy toffs. Don’t forget to check out the novella up next. Avery is beyond generous and offers a belter of a discount (free!) if you follow the trail here….
Book UNfunk
November 19, 2023
Not your regular sports romance. After a string of KU doozies, I’m impressed by this authors writing. The real world issues that form the storyline rather than the typical romance tropes and the serious yet dryly humourous way they are delivered feels fresh. There is still a nice amount of steam and quality romance that doesn’t dissolve into grossly sweet. I really believed in the relationship between Colin and Andrew (although I imagined them to have much sexier names). I absolutely adore the Scottish accents and slang.
I loved the complexity of the characters (I aged them up to late twenties in my head) and the depth to this story. I learnt a lot from this about the Scottish 2014 Referendum, without it being delivered in a preachy or biased way. Normally I avoid books with politics but this was interesting. I feel like I really got a good feel for both sides of the Referendum and I was fully invested seeing both Colin and Andrew trying to come together despite being from two completely different upbringings and lifestyles.
I felt the Bipolar rep of Colin’s mother was really well done. As someone who grew up at home with a family member with Bipolar the impact this had on Colin felt accurate and was sensitively written.
I would have loved a bit more in the end, fleshing out a bit more of the details and seeing on page how things went down with Andrews family.
You could easily read this as a stand-alone, although I recommend book 1 as it was a great read and we are introduced to the characters there. I haven’t read the prequel novella to this series and don’t feel like I’ve missed much in that one.
I loved the complexity of the characters (I aged them up to late twenties in my head) and the depth to this story. I learnt a lot from this about the Scottish 2014 Referendum, without it being delivered in a preachy or biased way. Normally I avoid books with politics but this was interesting. I feel like I really got a good feel for both sides of the Referendum and I was fully invested seeing both Colin and Andrew trying to come together despite being from two completely different upbringings and lifestyles.
I felt the Bipolar rep of Colin’s mother was really well done. As someone who grew up at home with a family member with Bipolar the impact this had on Colin felt accurate and was sensitively written.
I would have loved a bit more in the end, fleshing out a bit more of the details and seeing on page how things went down with Andrews family.
You could easily read this as a stand-alone, although I recommend book 1 as it was a great read and we are introduced to the characters there. I haven’t read the prequel novella to this series and don’t feel like I’ve missed much in that one.
September 27, 2017
3.5 stars
I enjoyed this one, it was really focused on Scottish independence and I loved how invested the characters were, how fiercely they stood for what they believed in, it was good to get both opinions.
I personally
May 1, 2016
I didn't like Andrew at first. He grew on me. I loved Colin from the beginning. I actually didn't expect to like the ending because I was sure I knew how it would go. I was wrong. This is a good thing. Definitely recommend this book.
March 9, 2016
Tengo debilidad por los militantes, en la vida, en la ficción, en donde sea. Me gusta leer sobre gente que se pone las pilas y se manda a militar, a trabajar, a luchar por una ideología. No me importa que sea una ideología que comparta o no, me desborda la admiración y el respeto instantáneo cuando leo/veo a alguien que milita.
La mayoría le rehuye a la palabra en sí. Prefieren decir "activista", "simpatizante" o cualquier palabra que evoque un poco menos de ideología y más de espontaneidad.
Haya sido la intención de la autora o no, Colin es un militante. Esta novela me pareció fascinante precisamente por ello. MacDuff tiene ideología y Avery Cockburn (hola, mejor apellido/seudónimo del mundo) lo deja bien en claro; como también lo hace por el lado de Andrew- el Lord Andrew derechozo que choca con los intereses de la Escocia independiente y, por su parte, mantiene una militancia tuitera para defender sus ideas.
Así como se ha tomado el trabajo de escribir escenas muy interesantes que giran en torno al debate sobre el referéndum escocés para separarse de Gran Bretaña, también lo hace cuando decide poner bien en claro las posiciones de sus dos protagonistas. Es decir, la autora no plantea la historia desde un solo lado (aunque si se lee entre líneas, puede notarse más simpatía por un lado que por otro), sino que se toma el tiempo de exponer los dos puntos de vista (Colin por el SI, Andrew por el NO), dejando que el lector piense por sí mismo y tome sus propias decisiones. En el medio de todo, las charlas, las peleas, el ir de puerta en puerta, los festejos, los debates, los medios, la lucha y todo eso que conlleva la vida del militante sientan la base para la historia. Y, en este caso, no sirven sólo como un mero decorado y escenario para el romance, sino que son buena parte de la trama principal; tanto así que el romance queda a veces en segundo plano. El conflicto está en si la pareja, de ideologías tan contrarias, pueden realmente separar la política del romance o, mejor dicho, si son capaces de conciliar militancias (activismos, si les sienta más cómodo) tan diferentes con el enamoramiento y consecuente amor que se nace casi sin querer.
Y además, fútbol, fútbol, fútbol, sexo por acá y allá, y en todos lados, para recordarnos que ésto, en el fondo, no deja de ser un romance con las escenas esperadas pero, como bien escribí previamente, con la ventaja de ser mucho más original e interesante que la mayoría.
P.D. Esta serie tiene portadas demasiado cursis pero tengan siempre en cuenta que lo que importaes la ceveza es lo de adentro ;)
La mayoría le rehuye a la palabra en sí. Prefieren decir "activista", "simpatizante" o cualquier palabra que evoque un poco menos de ideología y más de espontaneidad.
Haya sido la intención de la autora o no, Colin es un militante. Esta novela me pareció fascinante precisamente por ello. MacDuff tiene ideología y Avery Cockburn (hola, mejor apellido/seudónimo del mundo) lo deja bien en claro; como también lo hace por el lado de Andrew- el Lord Andrew derechozo que choca con los intereses de la Escocia independiente y, por su parte, mantiene una militancia tuitera para defender sus ideas.
Así como se ha tomado el trabajo de escribir escenas muy interesantes que giran en torno al debate sobre el referéndum escocés para separarse de Gran Bretaña, también lo hace cuando decide poner bien en claro las posiciones de sus dos protagonistas. Es decir, la autora no plantea la historia desde un solo lado (aunque si se lee entre líneas, puede notarse más simpatía por un lado que por otro), sino que se toma el tiempo de exponer los dos puntos de vista (Colin por el SI, Andrew por el NO), dejando que el lector piense por sí mismo y tome sus propias decisiones. En el medio de todo, las charlas, las peleas, el ir de puerta en puerta, los festejos, los debates, los medios, la lucha y todo eso que conlleva la vida del militante sientan la base para la historia. Y, en este caso, no sirven sólo como un mero decorado y escenario para el romance, sino que son buena parte de la trama principal; tanto así que el romance queda a veces en segundo plano. El conflicto está en si la pareja, de ideologías tan contrarias, pueden realmente separar la política del romance o, mejor dicho, si son capaces de conciliar militancias (activismos, si les sienta más cómodo) tan diferentes con el enamoramiento y consecuente amor que se nace casi sin querer.
Y además, fútbol, fútbol, fútbol, sexo por acá y allá, y en todos lados, para recordarnos que ésto, en el fondo, no deja de ser un romance con las escenas esperadas pero, como bien escribí previamente, con la ventaja de ser mucho más original e interesante que la mayoría.
P.D. Esta serie tiene portadas demasiado cursis pero tengan siempre en cuenta que lo que importa
Read
February 17, 2017DNF 27%
This is not holding my attention and quite frankly I was expecting something like that.
It's always difficult to get into a book after reading a mind blowing story.
To be fair, I won't make any more updates until I have sure I will be able to finish the book I picked.
Moving on.
This is not holding my attention and quite frankly I was expecting something like that.
It's always difficult to get into a book after reading a mind blowing story.
To be fair, I won't make any more updates until I have sure I will be able to finish the book I picked.
Moving on.
April 3, 2017
Reseña 01/04/2017
Este libro me sigue encantando ;)
Reseña 12/11/2015
Mis chicos de Glasgow siguen en plena forma, qué placer haber conocido mejor a Lord Andrew/Adam Smith, y es que me ha tenido rendida a sus pies desde el minuto 1.
Imaginaos que un protagonista de una película de Ken Loach conoce a un aristócrata estirado, saltarían chispas, ¿no? Pues la tensión sexual está servida señores... Y qué tensión... wow!!!!!!!
No os voy a engañar, entiendo que no es un libro para todo el mundo, hay mucha política, todo el libro está ambientado en los meses previos al referéndum por la independencia de Escocia, Colin es un SÍ, Andrew es un NO, y toda su relación está salpicada por las diferencias sociales y políticas. A mi me ha parecido muy bien integrado todo, no me ha resultado nada pesado, pero como digo, no es plato de todos los gustos. Si no le dais una oportunidad os perderéis una pareja explosiva y una bonita historia de amor #justsaying
Para mi, ya lo decía arriba, hay un protagonista indiscutible, y es Andrew, me encanta ese punto de Lord cabroncete que tiene en la primera parte, los cortes que se pegan mutuamente son geniales, me lo he pasado pipa. Es en él en el que se ve una evolución brutal, a raíz de conocer a Colin (y su realidad) todo su mundo se acaba poniendo patas arriba y es precioso ver ese final, Twitter mueve montañas (y amores ;))
De los 3 que he leído, creo que es el mejor hasta ahora, básicamente porque la relación de los personajes es mucho más tangible, son mucho más emotivos y eso me ha hecho disfrutarlo mucho más. Ahora nada, a espera la novella y el tercer libro... ¿Evan? ¿Robert y Liam tendrán su HEA??? Aix que nervios!!!!!!
Este libro me sigue encantando ;)
Reseña 12/11/2015
Mis chicos de Glasgow siguen en plena forma, qué placer haber conocido mejor a Lord Andrew/Adam Smith, y es que me ha tenido rendida a sus pies desde el minuto 1.
Imaginaos que un protagonista de una película de Ken Loach conoce a un aristócrata estirado, saltarían chispas, ¿no? Pues la tensión sexual está servida señores... Y qué tensión... wow!!!!!!!
No os voy a engañar, entiendo que no es un libro para todo el mundo, hay mucha política, todo el libro está ambientado en los meses previos al referéndum por la independencia de Escocia, Colin es un SÍ, Andrew es un NO, y toda su relación está salpicada por las diferencias sociales y políticas. A mi me ha parecido muy bien integrado todo, no me ha resultado nada pesado, pero como digo, no es plato de todos los gustos. Si no le dais una oportunidad os perderéis una pareja explosiva y una bonita historia de amor #justsaying
Para mi, ya lo decía arriba, hay un protagonista indiscutible, y es Andrew, me encanta ese punto de Lord cabroncete que tiene en la primera parte, los cortes que se pegan mutuamente son geniales, me lo he pasado pipa. Es en él en el que se ve una evolución brutal, a raíz de conocer a Colin (y su realidad) todo su mundo se acaba poniendo patas arriba y es precioso ver ese final, Twitter mueve montañas (y amores ;))
De los 3 que he leído, creo que es el mejor hasta ahora, básicamente porque la relación de los personajes es mucho más tangible, son mucho más emotivos y eso me ha hecho disfrutarlo mucho más. Ahora nada, a espera la novella y el tercer libro... ¿Evan? ¿Robert y Liam tendrán su HEA??? Aix que nervios!!!!!!
August 8, 2016
Muy bueno. Todos los puntos fuertes que tiene el primer libro de la serie se repiten en este. En Playing to Win los protagonistas son Colin y Lord Andrew, en esta ocasión el punto de conflicto no es la religión, es la diferencia de estatus social de uno y otro y sus diferencias políticas. Como ocurre en el anterior libro, el autor presenta la situación de la sociedad escocesa de forma muy real, lo que te permite conocer a fondo no solo a los personajes, también su entorno y el foco de todo lo que puede ser un impedimento para su historia de amor.
Es un libro muy bien escrito, dulce, lleno de ternura y con unas escenas de sexo extraordinarias,el autor siempre consigue construir escenas muy eróticas pero sin perder la perspectiva de lo que significan emocionalmente para sus personajes.
Excelente el análisis de la situación política en Escocia antes del referendum para la independencia.
Muy romántico.
Es un libro muy bien escrito, dulce, lleno de ternura y con unas escenas de sexo extraordinarias,el autor siempre consigue construir escenas muy eróticas pero sin perder la perspectiva de lo que significan emocionalmente para sus personajes.
Excelente el análisis de la situación política en Escocia antes del referendum para la independencia.
Muy romántico.
September 20, 2015
This is deliciously long, involved, complicated, messy. Colin and Lord Andrew just should not work together. Everything about their lives clashes and is confrontational. Their political views are on either end of the spectrum. Their ways of living with Andrew as an indulged youngest son of the entitled upper-class is in direct contrast to Colin's upbringing as part of a welfare dependent family.
But there's something about the other that makes each feel safe. So they keep trying to build bridges, and overcome obstacles, and suggest compromises - anything so they can keep seeing each other.
We learn all about their very different damages inflicted from their pasts. They open their hearts and we see the healing occur. It's so lovely to believe that people who are right for each other can be together.
As part of a series, we have the football element, which is not as large a part as in the previous book. Because this book is all about the Scottish push for independence, and plays out against that background. It was very vivid, and both sides of the debate were represented, so readers could see the reasons people voted for and against.
I just loved how there was very little walking out here. Even if Colin or Andrew did leave, he always returned to talk things through. There was also some self-sacrificing behaviour which I LOVE, and gosh, now I am just going on and on.
I thought this was the best book of this series so far. If I have one complaint, it was that we didn't see enough of Duncan and Brodie. But a minor quibble really.
Can't wait for the next ones.
But there's something about the other that makes each feel safe. So they keep trying to build bridges, and overcome obstacles, and suggest compromises - anything so they can keep seeing each other.
We learn all about their very different damages inflicted from their pasts. They open their hearts and we see the healing occur. It's so lovely to believe that people who are right for each other can be together.
As part of a series, we have the football element, which is not as large a part as in the previous book. Because this book is all about the Scottish push for independence, and plays out against that background. It was very vivid, and both sides of the debate were represented, so readers could see the reasons people voted for and against.
I just loved how there was very little walking out here. Even if Colin or Andrew did leave, he always returned to talk things through. There was also some self-sacrificing behaviour which I LOVE, and gosh, now I am just going on and on.
I thought this was the best book of this series so far. If I have one complaint, it was that we didn't see enough of Duncan and Brodie. But a minor quibble really.
Can't wait for the next ones.
April 5, 2021
I didn't expect the story to be so much about politics, but I liked reading about the independence referendum and its role and impact in Colin and Andrew's relationship. Football is not as present in this book as in the others and that surprised me, because it seemed pretty important to Colin to get back on the team after his injury.
I loved Colin, with his strength, vulnerability, his past and present struggles. Given his situation and past, it would have been understandable if he held himself back, instead he was sometimes painfully honest with Andrew. I did like Andrew, but mostly because of how he was with Colin, though he grew on me later.
Their dynamic was what made the book for me, the fact that they learn from each other and they stuck together and didn't let their different worlds and ideas tear them apart, when it would have been so easy for that to happen.
No unnecessary drama...or almost none. I didn't like the way the last part of the story unfolded, I found it was a little bit too dramatic and some important scenes were also told rather than shown. It's the only problem I have with the whole book, so it's okay.
-----------------------------------------
Reread 5 five years later for a BR and I still agree with my original review, although this time I knew the last part was coming and it didn’t bother me as much as it seems to have done in my first read.
I’d only like to add one thing: Andrew did grow on me and I still mostly liked him because of how he was with Colin—at least after he stopped being constantly obnoxious—but I can’t believe I didn’t mention how much he makes me want to slap him most of the time. Maybe I forgot to mention it or maybe I’ve grown less patient these last few years, lol.
I loved Colin, with his strength, vulnerability, his past and present struggles. Given his situation and past, it would have been understandable if he held himself back, instead he was sometimes painfully honest with Andrew. I did like Andrew, but mostly because of how he was with Colin, though he grew on me later.
Their dynamic was what made the book for me, the fact that they learn from each other and they stuck together and didn't let their different worlds and ideas tear them apart, when it would have been so easy for that to happen.
No unnecessary drama...or almost none. I didn't like the way the last part of the story unfolded, I found it was a little bit too dramatic and some important scenes were also told rather than shown. It's the only problem I have with the whole book, so it's okay.
-----------------------------------------
Reread 5 five years later for a BR and I still agree with my original review, although this time I knew the last part was coming and it didn’t bother me as much as it seems to have done in my first read.
I’d only like to add one thing: Andrew did grow on me and I still mostly liked him because of how he was with Colin—at least after he stopped being constantly obnoxious—but I can’t believe I didn’t mention how much he makes me want to slap him most of the time. Maybe I forgot to mention it or maybe I’ve grown less patient these last few years, lol.
October 16, 2015
4.5 Stars
By far the best book in the series, I really enjoyed it so much!!
By far the best book in the series, I really enjoyed it so much!!
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.
In this, the second full length novel for the lads, Colin and Andrew teach each other tolerance for those who feel and think differently. I loved watching Colin learn that Andrew wasn't unfeeling, and watching Andrew get in touch with his empathetic side. The political background in this story was interesting, and I learned a lot about the internal strife that was going on in Scotland during the Independence Referendum. By placing the story of two seemingly opposed lovers in front of that kind of political stage, Cockburn managed to showcase that tolerance and acceptance go well beyond a person's sexuality, down to their beliefs and social conscience. She also showcased a wonderfully loving couple. Despite coming from vastly different backgrounds and growing up believing in two very different ways of living, they would ultimately do anything for one another.
This is my favorite from the Lads series so far.
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.
In this, the second full length novel for the lads, Colin and Andrew teach each other tolerance for those who feel and think differently. I loved watching Colin learn that Andrew wasn't unfeeling, and watching Andrew get in touch with his empathetic side. The political background in this story was interesting, and I learned a lot about the internal strife that was going on in Scotland during the Independence Referendum. By placing the story of two seemingly opposed lovers in front of that kind of political stage, Cockburn managed to showcase that tolerance and acceptance go well beyond a person's sexuality, down to their beliefs and social conscience. She also showcased a wonderfully loving couple. Despite coming from vastly different backgrounds and growing up believing in two very different ways of living, they would ultimately do anything for one another.
This is my favorite from the Lads series so far.
August 16, 2017
4.5 stars. Even better than book 1. The combination of snooty aristocrat and rough soccer player set against the recent Scottish referendum for independence was brilliant. This author really backs up her romance with plots that feel modern and relevant.
April 14, 2021
I enjoyed this new installment in the Glasgow Lads series but not at the same level as the other two. While I liked to revisit the last time Scotland voted to be independent and remember how was the World back then, when a pandemic where nowhere in sight, I found this book uneven. Every single time I thought I was warming up to the characters (specially Andrew, who I wanted to slap, kick and give a reality bath every page), one of them did something that prevented it. So, I reached the end amused but not truly invested in them, and then the ending happened and it was so over the top and had that telefilm vibe all over it, that I ended up a bit cold. Don't get me wrong, this is a good story, only I wish some of the things had been better planned.
December 24, 2025
updated dec 2025
rating lowered and removed from favorites. review kept for posterity but be warned it’s mad cringe.
not tryna be a hater but genuinely puzzled by my past reading tastes like truly what was I thinking. I didn’t always read absolute moral brain rot but I sure read a lot of it.
_______________
Reread March 2017, and I'll be damned if I didn't love it as much as the first time.
A few more notes:
1. Considering a second independence referendum for Scotland is in the works right now (still kinda shaky on the details!) it was really interesting to see the politics of the first one in 2014. Politics can be quite fascinating, and since I wasn't in the atmosphere of Scotland 2014 during this time I loved being able to soak it all up.
2. I cannot understate how much I love Scottish (or...I guess Glaswegian in particular) slang/the accent. Ahhh <3
3. So...I have to gush about the sex scenes. One thing in particular about them I really liked. And that was the open communication between Andrew and Colin. They always discussed what they liked, wanted, etc. and everything about their sexual relationship was just so open and...it was great. It's sad to say but good communication in romance novels is pretty rare so I was thrilled with the sex scenes in this novel. (of course there are a few communication breakdowns, such as the debacle in New York. But for the most part...good communication. I love it)
And...well, that's all I have to say. I loved it. Read it. Reread it. Whatever. Just...you need it.
__________________________________________________
Oh my god, I feel like my heart is about to explode. This has ALL THE FEELS and I'm not sure I can take it. Give me a minute.....Alright, let's do this!
I found a new OTP!! This romance is the best- witty banter, tension without being overly dramatic, sweet moments. So sweet and amazing and heartwarming.
Colin's really the best. He's sarcastic and a bit cynical, but he's got a heart of gold. He's a really caring guy and he gets so fired up about what he believes in, and I love him so much. Andrew is also awesome. In the beginning, his class privilege as well as his ignorance of that privilege pissed me the hell off. But he grew and changed as a character and I loved it. Andrew's so....honest and raw, and he's just really lovable and awesome.
Aside from the romance, the political situation (the 2014 Scottish Independence referendum) in Scotland was a huge part of the story. And tbh, at the time the actual events were happening I was only vaguely aware of it. But this book opened my eyes to what it was really like. I'm not from Scotland, I don't really care about politics in Scotland. But the excitement, the atmosphere...it really got my heart pounding. It got me all fired up!
*insert Natsu gif here*
(you get my congratulations if you get the Fairy Tail reference)
And side note: maybe I have no idea what the hell I'm talking about, but this book made me very sympathetic to the Yes side.
I really liked the setting. I've never read a book that took place in modern-day Scotland, so this was a first and it was one I enjoyed. Also, the Scottish slang/accent is really cool.
If I'm completely honest, I don't give a single shit about sports. It's just not something that interests me. So I was a little hesitant to read this, fearing the football/soccer (same sport, different names) aspect would lessen my enjoyment. I was dead wrong. It's not shoved in your face so even if you don't like sports you would still enjoy this.
I stayed up until 1:00 in the morning to read this thing. It was fantastic, I absolutely adored it, and honestly my heart is pounding and I'm so amazed. This book punched me right in the feels. I even cried a little. Sorry if I'm a little incoherent. But what I'm trying to say is: I absolutely adored this with every fiber of my being. You've gotta read it!
Tl;dr version- Amazing romance, characters, exciting subplot, cool setting. It's brilliant. Read it.
rating lowered and removed from favorites. review kept for posterity but be warned it’s mad cringe.
not tryna be a hater but genuinely puzzled by my past reading tastes like truly what was I thinking. I didn’t always read absolute moral brain rot but I sure read a lot of it.
_______________
Reread March 2017, and I'll be damned if I didn't love it as much as the first time.
A few more notes:
1. Considering a second independence referendum for Scotland is in the works right now (still kinda shaky on the details!) it was really interesting to see the politics of the first one in 2014. Politics can be quite fascinating, and since I wasn't in the atmosphere of Scotland 2014 during this time I loved being able to soak it all up.
2. I cannot understate how much I love Scottish (or...I guess Glaswegian in particular) slang/the accent. Ahhh <3
3. So...I have to gush about the sex scenes. One thing in particular about them I really liked. And that was the open communication between Andrew and Colin. They always discussed what they liked, wanted, etc. and everything about their sexual relationship was just so open and...it was great. It's sad to say but good communication in romance novels is pretty rare so I was thrilled with the sex scenes in this novel. (of course there are a few communication breakdowns, such as the debacle in New York. But for the most part...good communication. I love it)
And...well, that's all I have to say. I loved it. Read it. Reread it. Whatever. Just...you need it.
__________________________________________________
Oh my god, I feel like my heart is about to explode. This has ALL THE FEELS and I'm not sure I can take it. Give me a minute.....Alright, let's do this!
I found a new OTP!! This romance is the best- witty banter, tension without being overly dramatic, sweet moments. So sweet and amazing and heartwarming.
Colin's really the best. He's sarcastic and a bit cynical, but he's got a heart of gold. He's a really caring guy and he gets so fired up about what he believes in, and I love him so much. Andrew is also awesome. In the beginning, his class privilege as well as his ignorance of that privilege pissed me the hell off. But he grew and changed as a character and I loved it. Andrew's so....honest and raw, and he's just really lovable and awesome.
Aside from the romance, the political situation (the 2014 Scottish Independence referendum) in Scotland was a huge part of the story. And tbh, at the time the actual events were happening I was only vaguely aware of it. But this book opened my eyes to what it was really like. I'm not from Scotland, I don't really care about politics in Scotland. But the excitement, the atmosphere...it really got my heart pounding. It got me all fired up!
*insert Natsu gif here*
(you get my congratulations if you get the Fairy Tail reference)
And side note: maybe I have no idea what the hell I'm talking about, but this book made me very sympathetic to the Yes side.
I really liked the setting. I've never read a book that took place in modern-day Scotland, so this was a first and it was one I enjoyed. Also, the Scottish slang/accent is really cool.
If I'm completely honest, I don't give a single shit about sports. It's just not something that interests me. So I was a little hesitant to read this, fearing the football/soccer (same sport, different names) aspect would lessen my enjoyment. I was dead wrong. It's not shoved in your face so even if you don't like sports you would still enjoy this.
I stayed up until 1:00 in the morning to read this thing. It was fantastic, I absolutely adored it, and honestly my heart is pounding and I'm so amazed. This book punched me right in the feels. I even cried a little. Sorry if I'm a little incoherent. But what I'm trying to say is: I absolutely adored this with every fiber of my being. You've gotta read it!
Tl;dr version- Amazing romance, characters, exciting subplot, cool setting. It's brilliant. Read it.
January 12, 2017
**** 4,5 grand stars ****
-----------------------------
"I cannae leave you." He pressed his lips to Andrew's ear. "I need you."
-----------------------------
-----------------------------
"You can't win me back." Andrew swallowed to keep from choking on his tears. "You can't win back what you never lost."
-----------------------------
What a grand story! I don't think I've ever used the word grand before describing a book, but this really was. I'm very impressed with the author with how she managed to make this book about so many subjects, the biggest being politics, but still make it a great romance!
Colin is from "the bottom" of society, and Lord Andrew is from "the top". They are very different, have very different opinions and values, they were raised differently. They're basically from opposite worlds. Still, they find common ground and fall in love, even though the road to get there is filled with bumps.
The setting for this story is the Scottish referendum for independence taking place in September, 2014. As Cockburn says in her post script:
----------------------------------
(...) the referendum was more than background for the story. It was the story. Yes or No, "indyref" would change the lives of modern-day Scots--especially young Scots like Colin and Andrew, brand-new adults still searching for their place in the world. (...)
Though Colin and Andrew are fictional characters, all historical details in this book are accurate to the best of my knowledge.
----------------------------------
So not only are the two main characters from opposite sides of the society, but they're also on opposite sides of Scottish independence. And they're not alone either, since they both experience pressure from their own "worlds".
What I really loved about this story was how much the story (and the characters) developed and progressed. Looking back on the start of the book now, it started out as an ordinary/normal opposite attracts story, but it turned into something much more grander. I'm really in awe. The story of Colin and Andrew was so much deeper than what I had expected! And I also learned something. I felt I got a deeper look into Scotland, and its people.
The book felt so real. So honest. So, well grand. Even though the results of the referendum is know, Cockburn still managed to do a spin on it, and surprise and awe me.
Colin and Andrew are the best!
Highly recommended!
Oh, and kilts. ;)
-----------------------------
"I cannae leave you." He pressed his lips to Andrew's ear. "I need you."
-----------------------------
-----------------------------
"You can't win me back." Andrew swallowed to keep from choking on his tears. "You can't win back what you never lost."
-----------------------------
What a grand story! I don't think I've ever used the word grand before describing a book, but this really was. I'm very impressed with the author with how she managed to make this book about so many subjects, the biggest being politics, but still make it a great romance!
Colin is from "the bottom" of society, and Lord Andrew is from "the top". They are very different, have very different opinions and values, they were raised differently. They're basically from opposite worlds. Still, they find common ground and fall in love, even though the road to get there is filled with bumps.
The setting for this story is the Scottish referendum for independence taking place in September, 2014. As Cockburn says in her post script:
----------------------------------
(...) the referendum was more than background for the story. It was the story. Yes or No, "indyref" would change the lives of modern-day Scots--especially young Scots like Colin and Andrew, brand-new adults still searching for their place in the world. (...)
Though Colin and Andrew are fictional characters, all historical details in this book are accurate to the best of my knowledge.
----------------------------------
So not only are the two main characters from opposite sides of the society, but they're also on opposite sides of Scottish independence. And they're not alone either, since they both experience pressure from their own "worlds".
What I really loved about this story was how much the story (and the characters) developed and progressed. Looking back on the start of the book now, it started out as an ordinary/normal opposite attracts story, but it turned into something much more grander. I'm really in awe. The story of Colin and Andrew was so much deeper than what I had expected! And I also learned something. I felt I got a deeper look into Scotland, and its people.
The book felt so real. So honest. So, well grand. Even though the results of the referendum is know, Cockburn still managed to do a spin on it, and surprise and awe me.
Colin and Andrew are the best!
Highly recommended!
Oh, and kilts. ;)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 326 reviews