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Boys on the Brink #0.5
Defensive Play
One glance is all it takes to bring his defences crashing down…
Seventeen-year-old Davey has never made friends easily. Shy, geeky, crippled with social anxiety, he feels isolated from his peers, and only his position as defender for the school football team fills the void of loneliness. On the pitch, his deft footwork has earned him the respect and acceptance of his squad, though at a price. Desperate to hold onto this camaraderie, Davey conceals the truth from everyone, even his own family.
Then, during the annual Brookshire football tournament, his eyes meet those of a rival player across the field and a spark flares between them, one neither boy can deny. Adam is everything Davey longs to be—confident, popular, comfortable with his sexuality. Davey aches to explore their connection, to discover where it might lead, but how can he follow his heart and risk rejection by his teammates, the closest thing to friends he has ever known?
Seventeen-year-old Davey has never made friends easily. Shy, geeky, crippled with social anxiety, he feels isolated from his peers, and only his position as defender for the school football team fills the void of loneliness. On the pitch, his deft footwork has earned him the respect and acceptance of his squad, though at a price. Desperate to hold onto this camaraderie, Davey conceals the truth from everyone, even his own family.
Then, during the annual Brookshire football tournament, his eyes meet those of a rival player across the field and a spark flares between them, one neither boy can deny. Adam is everything Davey longs to be—confident, popular, comfortable with his sexuality. Davey aches to explore their connection, to discover where it might lead, but how can he follow his heart and risk rejection by his teammates, the closest thing to friends he has ever known?
90 pages, ebook
Published November 30, 2018
50 people are currently reading
134 people want to read
About the author
Jamie Deacon
6 books77 followersBorn in 1982, Jamie Deacon lives close to the River Thames in Berkshire, England, and is a full-time author of young adult fiction featuring characters across the gender and sexuality spectrums. When not writing, Jamie loves to read, play board games, and solve cryptic crosswords.
Jamie’s debut novel, Caught Inside, was published in 2016 to much acclaim, including two Rainbow Awards. It was also nominated for a Lambda Literary Award, a Bisexual Book Award, and a Next Generation Indie Book Award.
Jamie’s debut novel, Caught Inside, was published in 2016 to much acclaim, including two Rainbow Awards. It was also nominated for a Lambda Literary Award, a Bisexual Book Award, and a Next Generation Indie Book Award.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
November 16, 2018
This short, 80'ish page, YA story was pretty damn adorably cute.
The story began with 17 y.o. footballer Davey locking eyes with a handsome opponent from their rival team, and he found it nearly impossible to look away, but he wasn't the only one.
They later ended up talking, briefly, before Davey hiked up his skirt-tails and ran away, without leaving so much as a glass slipper for young Adam to hold onto.
Although Davey wasn't the most comfortable teen in social situations, I'm not sure if I'd go as far as the blurb does to say his anxiety was full-on 'crippling'. Davey's fear of being found out seemed about on track with what I remembered myself as a teen, but no actual panic attacks to be found.
I really loved Adam and was happy to see that, despite a few bumps and bruises when coming out, he was still confident, popular even, and willing to go after what he wanted, which was our nerdy boy Davey.
Seeing Davey and Adam's budding friendship grow was sort of like watching a tentative dance between two pups at the dog park. The slow approach, a bit of circling, some sniffing, a bit of playfulness, then they get over themselves and pounce with joy and exuberance.
It was all just too sweet for words, until Davey was forced to either grow a backbone and stand up for out and proud Adam, or betray their new-found friendship to keep hiding from his old friends.
That part didn't go as well as one might've hoped, but Davey eventually redeemed himself and made it up to Adam in the end, so all was right with the world as the story ended.
I wish the story had been longer, but it felt complete and I'd rate it at around 4 stars and I might consider going back and reading the first book in the series, which also seemed to be an entirely standalone story as well.
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My ARC copy of the book was provided by the publisher in exchange for a fair, unbiased review.
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February 10, 2021
Audio 5 +++Stars
Story 3.5 Stars
Story 3.5 Stars
April 3, 2025
3 Stars
Sweet, contemplative, and charmingly British, this gay YA sports romance managed to pull on the heartstrings AND leave me with a smile on my face.
It's true that I could always do with more than 83 pages (I'm greedy like that), but Defensive Play still managed to demonstrate an impressive depth of character and narrative for a new-to-me author.
I will definitely be keeping an eye out for more of Jamie Deacon's writings from here on out.
Sweet, contemplative, and charmingly British, this gay YA sports romance managed to pull on the heartstrings AND leave me with a smile on my face.
It's true that I could always do with more than 83 pages (I'm greedy like that), but Defensive Play still managed to demonstrate an impressive depth of character and narrative for a new-to-me author.
I will definitely be keeping an eye out for more of Jamie Deacon's writings from here on out.
November 14, 2018
Davey is insecure about his sexuality. He is on the football team but not close with any of the guys. He sees Adam, a player on another team and likes what he see. He’s caught staring at him and struggles to deal with his feelings.
Adam is out and proud. He likes Davey but knows he’s in the closet. It doesn’t put Adam off but Davey needs to work out what he wants.
Defensive play is the first gay romance I’ve read that dealt with the insecurities of not being accepted. Davey never felt like he fitted in and Adam is a good influence on him.
This is a sweet, short story with likeable characters. 4 stars out of 5.
*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Adam is out and proud. He likes Davey but knows he’s in the closet. It doesn’t put Adam off but Davey needs to work out what he wants.
Defensive play is the first gay romance I’ve read that dealt with the insecurities of not being accepted. Davey never felt like he fitted in and Adam is a good influence on him.
This is a sweet, short story with likeable characters. 4 stars out of 5.
*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
February 23, 2024
Copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review
Thank you Jamie Deacon! I really loved this one!
5 sweet 'get out there and own it!' stars
A short sweet read with deep emotional impact that I simply couldn't set down! This is my first book by Jamie Deacon and will certainly not be the last!
To all of you who have ever felt the need to hide away, afraid of revealing the person you are inside, this one's for you.
True to the dedication the author sets at the beginning of his novella this story is one that deals with the fear and anxiety that plague a teenager who knows he is different. Being outside the "normal" society norms is usually not easy, especially when you see how others like you are treated. In such a case, the obscenities and profanity thrown your way for no other reason then that of not fitting into the standard may be more than enough to cause crippling anxiety attacks. Teammates, friends and even family... what would they think if they knew? What would they say? Would they still like you if they saw the real you? Would they still respect or love you? And this is exactly what our MC here fears.
Seventeen-year-old Davey has never made friends easily. Shy, geeky, crippled with social anxiety, he feels isolated from his peers, and only his position as defender for the school football team fills the void of loneliness. On the pitch, his deft footwork has earned him the respect and acceptance of his squad, though at a price. Desperate to hold onto this camaraderie, Davey conceals the truth from everyone, even his own family.
But things get complicated during the annual Brookshire football tournament, when Davey meets a rival player across the field and one look is enough to make him fall hard. Adam!
Adam is everything Davey longs to be - handsome, confident, popular, and most of all, comfortable with his sexuality.
Sparks flare between the two, and neither boy can deny them. Davey aches to explore that connection and discover where it might lead, but if he follows his heart he risks rejection by his teammates, the closest thing to friends he has ever known, and perhaps even the love of his family.
These doubts would be enough to drive anyone crazy and still, sometimes it may be worth to take a leap of faith and chance it. After all... what use are friendship, love and respect when they are not given to the real you?!
In a nice, simple and easy prose that makes reading a pleasure, the author describes two characters that are practically leaping off the page. You can easily see them in our day to day life. Neither too much sweetness, nor too much angst, neither too much weakness, nor too much strength. Neither too perfect nor too flawed. Both Davey and Adam will make the reader get invested in their story and root for them.
The side characters are nothing less either. Written in just enough detail to make them real, they are a nice addition to the story, beautifully complementing it.
All in all, a well-written, gentle and lovely, wholesome romance with fully formed characters and strong emotional impact! I highly recommend it to all those in search of a quick and endearing as well as realistic read.
Check out this review and more over at The Magic Book Corner
Thank you Jamie Deacon! I really loved this one!
5 sweet 'get out there and own it!' stars
A short sweet read with deep emotional impact that I simply couldn't set down! This is my first book by Jamie Deacon and will certainly not be the last!
To all of you who have ever felt the need to hide away, afraid of revealing the person you are inside, this one's for you.
True to the dedication the author sets at the beginning of his novella this story is one that deals with the fear and anxiety that plague a teenager who knows he is different. Being outside the "normal" society norms is usually not easy, especially when you see how others like you are treated. In such a case, the obscenities and profanity thrown your way for no other reason then that of not fitting into the standard may be more than enough to cause crippling anxiety attacks. Teammates, friends and even family... what would they think if they knew? What would they say? Would they still like you if they saw the real you? Would they still respect or love you? And this is exactly what our MC here fears.
Seventeen-year-old Davey has never made friends easily. Shy, geeky, crippled with social anxiety, he feels isolated from his peers, and only his position as defender for the school football team fills the void of loneliness. On the pitch, his deft footwork has earned him the respect and acceptance of his squad, though at a price. Desperate to hold onto this camaraderie, Davey conceals the truth from everyone, even his own family.
But things get complicated during the annual Brookshire football tournament, when Davey meets a rival player across the field and one look is enough to make him fall hard. Adam!
Adam is everything Davey longs to be - handsome, confident, popular, and most of all, comfortable with his sexuality.
Sparks flare between the two, and neither boy can deny them. Davey aches to explore that connection and discover where it might lead, but if he follows his heart he risks rejection by his teammates, the closest thing to friends he has ever known, and perhaps even the love of his family.
These doubts would be enough to drive anyone crazy and still, sometimes it may be worth to take a leap of faith and chance it. After all... what use are friendship, love and respect when they are not given to the real you?!
In a nice, simple and easy prose that makes reading a pleasure, the author describes two characters that are practically leaping off the page. You can easily see them in our day to day life. Neither too much sweetness, nor too much angst, neither too much weakness, nor too much strength. Neither too perfect nor too flawed. Both Davey and Adam will make the reader get invested in their story and root for them.
The side characters are nothing less either. Written in just enough detail to make them real, they are a nice addition to the story, beautifully complementing it.
All in all, a well-written, gentle and lovely, wholesome romance with fully formed characters and strong emotional impact! I highly recommend it to all those in search of a quick and endearing as well as realistic read.
Check out this review and more over at The Magic Book Corner
August 4, 2025
Pretty adorable
December 6, 2018
This is a story short enough to be read in a single sitting. While I wouldn’t call it pure fluff, it isn’t full of a lot of angst and drama, either. It’s really just two boys who find their way to each other and to a happy ending.
Much has been made recently of a couple of mainstream young adult gay romances, and it is good to see queer YA getting its due. Sadly, a lot of them still rely on “othering” LGBTQ kids around their coming out. This story is free from any of that.
Davey does experience some anxiety about who is safe and who is not, and he does have cause for concern with a couple of homophobic teammates. However, Davey’s anxiety is primarily not centered on his sexuality. It’s something he deals with in other ways, and we see how it manifests when it comes to his identity. The story is not primarily about how he confronts bullies, and there aren’t any contrived plots surrounding his being forcibly and non-consensually outed.
Both of the boys in the story, Davey and Adam, are realistic and likable. They’re not perfect. Davey can be thoughtless, wrapped up in his own fears. Adam can come on a bit strong. I liked this about them, the way they behave like actual teenagers.
This is a hallmark of Jamie Deacon’s work. The characters never come across as an adult trying too hard to sound “teenagerish,” nor like a projection of what an adult imagines teenagers must sound like and act like. They simply feel real and well-defined, even in a work as short as this one. I left the story with a sense that I really knew Davey and Adam as people.
There isn’t much else to say about the story. It’s short, sweet, and a breath of fresh air. Nothing too heavy, just a gentle, lovely romance. It’s the sort of story my own teens would refer to as “wholesome”: something so overall nice that everyone comes away a better person afterward.
For fully formed characters, a gentle romance, and a well-written story, this gets 5 stars
Much has been made recently of a couple of mainstream young adult gay romances, and it is good to see queer YA getting its due. Sadly, a lot of them still rely on “othering” LGBTQ kids around their coming out. This story is free from any of that.
Davey does experience some anxiety about who is safe and who is not, and he does have cause for concern with a couple of homophobic teammates. However, Davey’s anxiety is primarily not centered on his sexuality. It’s something he deals with in other ways, and we see how it manifests when it comes to his identity. The story is not primarily about how he confronts bullies, and there aren’t any contrived plots surrounding his being forcibly and non-consensually outed.
Both of the boys in the story, Davey and Adam, are realistic and likable. They’re not perfect. Davey can be thoughtless, wrapped up in his own fears. Adam can come on a bit strong. I liked this about them, the way they behave like actual teenagers.
This is a hallmark of Jamie Deacon’s work. The characters never come across as an adult trying too hard to sound “teenagerish,” nor like a projection of what an adult imagines teenagers must sound like and act like. They simply feel real and well-defined, even in a work as short as this one. I left the story with a sense that I really knew Davey and Adam as people.
There isn’t much else to say about the story. It’s short, sweet, and a breath of fresh air. Nothing too heavy, just a gentle, lovely romance. It’s the sort of story my own teens would refer to as “wholesome”: something so overall nice that everyone comes away a better person afterward.
For fully formed characters, a gentle romance, and a well-written story, this gets 5 stars
May 31, 2019
This was a super quick, super cute read.
Things I'm a sucker for in books
- sports. Check!
- being set in England. Check!
- cuties who don't act like dicks all the time. Check!
This follows Davey, an anxious sixth former who plays in his school's football team, who locks eyes with Adam, star of the rival team.
Defensive Play is a novella, under 100 pages, but I felt like we got to know the characters well and saw their relationship blossom. Even secondary characters like their respective families and team mates were written well.
I loved the fact we follow a bit of a quiet, nerdy guy who also plays sports. So often in books these two things are mutually exclusive, so that was nice and refreshing.
The storyline is pretty simple, but engaging. Davey and Adam are both really likeable so you will be rooting for them. The pacing is perfect, it doesn't feel rushed at any part, which is something that can happen in a lot of novellas or short stories.
Although it's not really a big part of the story, there is talk of anxiety and therapy / coping mechanisms which was a really great thing to see, so if you're looking for a book with elements of that then this is a good place to start.
Things I'm a sucker for in books
- sports. Check!
- being set in England. Check!
- cuties who don't act like dicks all the time. Check!
This follows Davey, an anxious sixth former who plays in his school's football team, who locks eyes with Adam, star of the rival team.
Defensive Play is a novella, under 100 pages, but I felt like we got to know the characters well and saw their relationship blossom. Even secondary characters like their respective families and team mates were written well.
I loved the fact we follow a bit of a quiet, nerdy guy who also plays sports. So often in books these two things are mutually exclusive, so that was nice and refreshing.
The storyline is pretty simple, but engaging. Davey and Adam are both really likeable so you will be rooting for them. The pacing is perfect, it doesn't feel rushed at any part, which is something that can happen in a lot of novellas or short stories.
Although it's not really a big part of the story, there is talk of anxiety and therapy / coping mechanisms which was a really great thing to see, so if you're looking for a book with elements of that then this is a good place to start.
July 29, 2025
Everything happens fast in this short one (1.5 hr). Cute slightly dorky boy doesn’t realize he’s cute and anyone with true gaydar understands. Especially the out-boy on a rival team. Fears discussed, a couple of homophobic teammates, but this story is heart satisfying.
We talk endlessly, saying, whatever comes into our heads, no barriers between us. … For the first time in my life, there’s another human being who truly sees me, understands who I am. It’s intoxicated.
Davey found camaraderie on the football team, but his closet was harder to break out of.
Whereas we’re in the first 11 of our school football teams, so we must be straight. Life‘s messed up sometimes.
I’ll look for more short ones for my heart from this author.
3.75*
We talk endlessly, saying, whatever comes into our heads, no barriers between us. … For the first time in my life, there’s another human being who truly sees me, understands who I am. It’s intoxicated.
Davey found camaraderie on the football team, but his closet was harder to break out of.
Whereas we’re in the first 11 of our school football teams, so we must be straight. Life‘s messed up sometimes.
I’ll look for more short ones for my heart from this author.
3.75*
December 25, 2018
A totally sweet, moving novella from Deacon, whose work I have consistently loved so far. Plus an England setting: always welcome to me!
December 5, 2018
Defensive Play is the first book by this author I have read, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Davey knows he is gay, but he hasn't told anyone. He is a geek who has managed to earn the respect of his football team, and he is worried if he comes out, he will lose that. He thinks he has it all under control, until Adam shows up. With one glance, Davey starts to become unraveled.
This was a sweet story, with some angst in tune with the story. Mostly, it is about Davey and how he feels, what he will do, and what will the fall out be. It is a novella, so expect the pacing to be fairly fast. There were no editing or grammatical errors that disrupted my reading flow.
A thoroughly enjoyable story, and I look forward to reading more by this author. Definitely recommended by me.
* I received a copy of this book with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
This was a sweet story, with some angst in tune with the story. Mostly, it is about Davey and how he feels, what he will do, and what will the fall out be. It is a novella, so expect the pacing to be fairly fast. There were no editing or grammatical errors that disrupted my reading flow.
A thoroughly enjoyable story, and I look forward to reading more by this author. Definitely recommended by me.
* I received a copy of this book with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
April 12, 2019
This is an irresistible short work depicting two futballers who play for rival teams, one who is out and lonely, and one who is deep in his closet and lonelier. They are at different stages of their identities, which isn't a problem until the closeted Davey turns all Peter-in-the-Garden-of-Gesthsemane on the out Adam, denying his boyfriend to his homophobic teammate at the grocery. Davey and Adam are naturals together, and the growth of each is realistic (well, except for one perfect pre-game kiss).
There is no point playing defensive over it: I loved it.
There is no point playing defensive over it: I loved it.
December 5, 2018
This was super cute!! Very fun, sweet and emotional novella. Highly recommendable for a quick m/m story about first love.
>>There's no forced or vindictive outing.
>>No love triangles or other extra drama
>>Davy is someone on the periphery of social circles with anxiety and nervous about getting negative focus on him from homophobic teammates. I like stories having teens like this- not the popular ones, not the targets or isolated loners-just run of the mill kids that are average and overlooked. I love his family, with the dad that does the baking and the snarky sister.
>>Adam is super cute, handles Davy and his issues very well, very empathetic and understanding.
>>They're both nontoxic unmacho teen boys.
>>Romance is quick, heady, and a euphoric roller-coaster ride of teen firsts.
>>Real about the problems and consequences of dating down low.
>>LOVE the big bold romantic gesture
>>Will totally be reading the next installment in this series!
>>I'll be honest here. I saw the reviews for the first book and decided it wasn't for me with the cheating and the love angles going everywhere. Defensive Play doesn't have any of those problems and is good enough that I'm willing to try Caught Inside. It looks like the first two or three chapters are on preview through Amazon, so I'll be checking that out soon!
>>There's no forced or vindictive outing.
>>No love triangles or other extra drama
>>Davy is someone on the periphery of social circles with anxiety and nervous about getting negative focus on him from homophobic teammates. I like stories having teens like this- not the popular ones, not the targets or isolated loners-just run of the mill kids that are average and overlooked. I love his family, with the dad that does the baking and the snarky sister.
>>Adam is super cute, handles Davy and his issues very well, very empathetic and understanding.
>>They're both nontoxic unmacho teen boys.
>>Romance is quick, heady, and a euphoric roller-coaster ride of teen firsts.
>>Real about the problems and consequences of dating down low.
>>LOVE the big bold romantic gesture
>>Will totally be reading the next installment in this series!
>>I'll be honest here. I saw the reviews for the first book and decided it wasn't for me with the cheating and the love angles going everywhere. Defensive Play doesn't have any of those problems and is good enough that I'm willing to try Caught Inside. It looks like the first two or three chapters are on preview through Amazon, so I'll be checking that out soon!
December 5, 2018
This was a cute, short YA book with some adorable characters and just the tiniest bit of needed angst to make the book a well-rounded story.
17yo Davey plays football (soccer for us Americans. Lol) and has a bit of social anxiety, which for me didn’t seem to be as bad as I thought it would – by that, I mean most teenagers seem to have some sort of anxiety at one point or another. Dave’s was just a tad over “normal” but I think that his fear of coming out just added to that, making it seem worse.
Adam was a cute character. I was a bit nervous at the start, when he tried talking to Davey after the football pitch incident and Davey ran from him. Davey just needed to realize that standing up for himself and Adam and doing the right thing was best in order to redeem himself and his actions. Once that happened and they finally had a chance to build their tentative friendship and connect, all worked out OK. They were cute! I was also glad to see that most people, including Davey’s parents, seemed OK with the coming out.
Overall this was a cute, sweet book; I had fun reading.
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
17yo Davey plays football (soccer for us Americans. Lol) and has a bit of social anxiety, which for me didn’t seem to be as bad as I thought it would – by that, I mean most teenagers seem to have some sort of anxiety at one point or another. Dave’s was just a tad over “normal” but I think that his fear of coming out just added to that, making it seem worse.
Adam was a cute character. I was a bit nervous at the start, when he tried talking to Davey after the football pitch incident and Davey ran from him. Davey just needed to realize that standing up for himself and Adam and doing the right thing was best in order to redeem himself and his actions. Once that happened and they finally had a chance to build their tentative friendship and connect, all worked out OK. They were cute! I was also glad to see that most people, including Davey’s parents, seemed OK with the coming out.
Overall this was a cute, sweet book; I had fun reading.
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
November 21, 2018
*ARC received through the author*
Davey is afraid that coming out will burst the little bubble he imagines exists around himself and his life. Sure, he isn't the most popular guy. He's geeky, quiet and filled with anxiety. But he's also on the football team, and he's earned the respect of his teammates. He doesn't want to lose that... Then Davey meets Adam. He doesn't want to lose him either.
This was a lovely read. A quick one, as well. It took me half a day to get to know Davey and Adam, and I don't regret it one bit. When my only complaint is that I wish the book was longer, well, that's when I know it's a nice one.
This author has a gift for making the reader - or at least me - grow attached to the characters in such a small amount of pages. For a novella, these characters have been put together extremely well. You believe them and their reality, you sympathize.
If you're in need of a pick me up, of a quick, endearing story that is as sweet as it is realistic - you needn't look any further. This is the right novella for you.
I can't help but hope to hear about Davey and Adam again in the future. The 'Boys on the Brink' series continues to impress.
Davey is afraid that coming out will burst the little bubble he imagines exists around himself and his life. Sure, he isn't the most popular guy. He's geeky, quiet and filled with anxiety. But he's also on the football team, and he's earned the respect of his teammates. He doesn't want to lose that... Then Davey meets Adam. He doesn't want to lose him either.
This was a lovely read. A quick one, as well. It took me half a day to get to know Davey and Adam, and I don't regret it one bit. When my only complaint is that I wish the book was longer, well, that's when I know it's a nice one.
This author has a gift for making the reader - or at least me - grow attached to the characters in such a small amount of pages. For a novella, these characters have been put together extremely well. You believe them and their reality, you sympathize.
If you're in need of a pick me up, of a quick, endearing story that is as sweet as it is realistic - you needn't look any further. This is the right novella for you.
I can't help but hope to hear about Davey and Adam again in the future. The 'Boys on the Brink' series continues to impress.
May 19, 2019
This is one of those little British gems that stands out from the standard YA fare. I love the way it is told from a first-person perspective and the incredible journey of the nervous, closeted teenage protagonist Davey, which the author manages to pack in a short novella. I won't spoil the plot but what a triumph!
November 12, 2019
Defensive Play (Boys on the Brink) (2018) By Jamie Deacon is an incredible novella following the budding romance of two secondary school footballers whose eyes meet across a pitch and there’s no going back.
The protagonist of this book is Davey who is seventeen, socially-awkward, introverted, a nerd and a defender with the school football team. He sees Adam who is playing for the opposite team as a striker but things turn awkward when Davey accidentally goes in for tackle on Adam and gets sent off. However they meet up at the get together after but soon Davey finds himself in a dilemma between holding onto his old life or taking a chance on a new one with Adam by admitting that he is gay.
I love this book first of all. The author has amazing talent at crafting characters you care about. Davey and Adam are very real, very human and their dialogue is so authentic to life. Because of this, you find yourself as a reader caring more about what will happen as opposed to if they were very robotic characters. Their chemistry is undeniable, you find yourself very sad when they break-up momentarily and all round the story feels very true to life with it’s ups and downs and in betweens. Deacon writes the emotions of these characters so on point, they are like living characters coming alive off the way and they seem to both have huge hearts and care a lot about each other. Deacon wrote their support of each other so well with both of them being very understanding of the other’s feelings and situations. I also thought it fit very well the way parts of their lives had impacted how they felt about certain situations which gave a lot of backstory and helps you as reader to understand them more.
This book has a fluffy, romantic element and great humour in parts. On the other hand it has a lot of depth in the characters’ personalities, the fear of the future and internal nerves about not being liked and respected for who you are. It’s a stunning read. It’s short enough but so much is packed in here. Very heartwarming, very charming and full of heart and depth.
A pure joy to read and a must-read too.
The protagonist of this book is Davey who is seventeen, socially-awkward, introverted, a nerd and a defender with the school football team. He sees Adam who is playing for the opposite team as a striker but things turn awkward when Davey accidentally goes in for tackle on Adam and gets sent off. However they meet up at the get together after but soon Davey finds himself in a dilemma between holding onto his old life or taking a chance on a new one with Adam by admitting that he is gay.
I love this book first of all. The author has amazing talent at crafting characters you care about. Davey and Adam are very real, very human and their dialogue is so authentic to life. Because of this, you find yourself as a reader caring more about what will happen as opposed to if they were very robotic characters. Their chemistry is undeniable, you find yourself very sad when they break-up momentarily and all round the story feels very true to life with it’s ups and downs and in betweens. Deacon writes the emotions of these characters so on point, they are like living characters coming alive off the way and they seem to both have huge hearts and care a lot about each other. Deacon wrote their support of each other so well with both of them being very understanding of the other’s feelings and situations. I also thought it fit very well the way parts of their lives had impacted how they felt about certain situations which gave a lot of backstory and helps you as reader to understand them more.
This book has a fluffy, romantic element and great humour in parts. On the other hand it has a lot of depth in the characters’ personalities, the fear of the future and internal nerves about not being liked and respected for who you are. It’s a stunning read. It’s short enough but so much is packed in here. Very heartwarming, very charming and full of heart and depth.
A pure joy to read and a must-read too.
April 15, 2019
This is an Inspirational and hopeful story of a young boy Davey, who suffers from social anxiety and no one knows that he is gay.
This isn't about just a coming out story, the fact that he unable to share anything with anyone because of his too much self consciousness and nervousness can't make friends nor talk freely with anyone except his family. Where everyday is struggle to get along everyone. But at least with the help he got into football team and he is faster than anyone and that is the one thing makes him existable.
I didn't expect to be this accurate, I related to his suffering a lot. Whenever he is doing something out of his comfort zone he shaking with nervousness and telling himself to not to over think, that everyone is starting something he has done, pushing himself by telling he can do this not a big deal, and if he backs away it would be pathetic and lame constantly. Difficulty accepting compliments, low self esteem. And when Adam comes it wasn't just physical attraction but something more which is obvious because Adam listens and gives him hope and support. I always like Adam's like characters, who are open, free, brave, does not push others instead accept them and understand their complexities, affectionate :)
I liked it a lot because it's true that even having good parenting environment or good people around you if you cannot push yourself to open up and reach for what you want you may never get them. If you are not happy with the way you are you really living?
The only thing that I felt is the story got over so soon, I wish it were longer. Even though what a great start. Thank you for sharing the book I had good time reading it :)
This isn't about just a coming out story, the fact that he unable to share anything with anyone because of his too much self consciousness and nervousness can't make friends nor talk freely with anyone except his family. Where everyday is struggle to get along everyone. But at least with the help he got into football team and he is faster than anyone and that is the one thing makes him existable.
I didn't expect to be this accurate, I related to his suffering a lot. Whenever he is doing something out of his comfort zone he shaking with nervousness and telling himself to not to over think, that everyone is starting something he has done, pushing himself by telling he can do this not a big deal, and if he backs away it would be pathetic and lame constantly. Difficulty accepting compliments, low self esteem. And when Adam comes it wasn't just physical attraction but something more which is obvious because Adam listens and gives him hope and support. I always like Adam's like characters, who are open, free, brave, does not push others instead accept them and understand their complexities, affectionate :)
I liked it a lot because it's true that even having good parenting environment or good people around you if you cannot push yourself to open up and reach for what you want you may never get them. If you are not happy with the way you are you really living?
The only thing that I felt is the story got over so soon, I wish it were longer. Even though what a great start. Thank you for sharing the book I had good time reading it :)
January 21, 2019
I was pulled into this story immediately and sat up late reading it in one sitting. I thought the author did a great job in showing Davey’s inner struggle to be true to himself while feeling like a social outcast, and managing his panic attacks. At several times through I story I wanted to be able to tell him that his football skills weren’t the only reason his team valued and respected him. I thought telling the story in 1st person from Davey’s point of view reflected his nervousness, with the way he rambled and constantly second guessed himself. I loved the way he took solace in chemistry as it remains constant.
Davey and Adam’s growing friendship and relationship made me a very happy reader. I was on the edge of my seat hoping that although Davey couldn’t find the courage to come out, he’d do it in order to stand up for Adam.
Adam is such a sweet guy, and him and Davey geeking together was very sweet. I could feel their connection and totally bought into the fact they were soul mates. An added bonus for me reading this story was the British setting, and the fact both of them are Whovians.
I loved the supporting cast. Davey’s family are supportive, and friendly and it’s obvious they care and love him. His interactions with his sister are very typical of siblings. I liked the contrast between them and Adam’s dad with the family vibe, although I liked him too.
I’d recommend Defensive Play to readers who enjoy a sweet, feel good, romance with likeable characters who need to find the courage to be true to themselves in order to get their happy ending.
Davey and Adam’s growing friendship and relationship made me a very happy reader. I was on the edge of my seat hoping that although Davey couldn’t find the courage to come out, he’d do it in order to stand up for Adam.
Adam is such a sweet guy, and him and Davey geeking together was very sweet. I could feel their connection and totally bought into the fact they were soul mates. An added bonus for me reading this story was the British setting, and the fact both of them are Whovians.
I loved the supporting cast. Davey’s family are supportive, and friendly and it’s obvious they care and love him. His interactions with his sister are very typical of siblings. I liked the contrast between them and Adam’s dad with the family vibe, although I liked him too.
I’d recommend Defensive Play to readers who enjoy a sweet, feel good, romance with likeable characters who need to find the courage to be true to themselves in order to get their happy ending.
May 26, 2025
★ ★ ★ ★
This novella really packed an emotional punch, both with coming to terms with being gay/coming out AND dealing with crippling anxiety. As someone who suffers from panic attacks, this author was spot on. I also felt the brutally honest depiction of the fear of coming out was handled well too.
Davey is a bit of a nerd on the football team (soccer, y’all.) He’s also a closeted gay teen with no “close” friends. But the moment his eyes land on Adam across the field, everything shifts for him.
•𝗜’𝗺 𝘄𝗮𝗹𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗼 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗳𝗼𝗼𝘁𝗯𝗮𝗹𝗹 𝗽𝗶𝘁𝗰𝗵 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗼𝗳 𝗺𝘆 𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝘄𝗵𝗲𝗻 𝗜 𝘀𝗲𝗲 𝗵𝗶𝗺.•
These two boys were sweet and smitten. In their little bubble everything was perfect. Of course until a homophobe shakes their foundation and Davey must come to terms with what he really wants.
•𝗜 𝗰𝗮𝗻’𝘁 𝗴𝗲𝘁 𝗲𝗻𝗼𝘂𝗴𝗵 𝗼𝗳 𝗵𝗶𝗺—𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘄𝗮𝗿𝗺𝘁𝗵 𝗼𝗳 𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗹𝗶𝗽𝘀 𝗼𝗻 𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗲, 𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝘁𝗼𝗻𝗴𝘂𝗲 𝗶𝗻 𝗺𝘆 𝗺𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗵, 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗯𝘂𝗿𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘀𝗺𝗼𝗼𝘁𝗵𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗼�� 𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝘀𝗸𝗶𝗻 𝘂𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗿 𝗺𝘆 𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗱𝘀. 𝗜 𝘄𝗮𝗻𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝗱𝗿𝗼𝘄𝗻 𝗶𝗻 𝗵𝗶𝗺, 𝘁𝗼 𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗸 𝘀𝗼 𝗳𝗮𝗿 𝗶𝗻𝘀𝗶𝗱𝗲 𝗵𝗶𝗺 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗜’𝗹𝗹 𝗻𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝗳𝗶𝗻𝗱 𝗺𝘆 𝘄𝗮𝘆 𝗼𝘂𝘁.•
For such a short book, it packed a helluva punch. A truly realistic gay ya romance that ends on a HFN. I could’ve done with more—maybe an epilogue, but I’m satisfied.
This novella really packed an emotional punch, both with coming to terms with being gay/coming out AND dealing with crippling anxiety. As someone who suffers from panic attacks, this author was spot on. I also felt the brutally honest depiction of the fear of coming out was handled well too.
Davey is a bit of a nerd on the football team (soccer, y’all.) He’s also a closeted gay teen with no “close” friends. But the moment his eyes land on Adam across the field, everything shifts for him.
•𝗜’𝗺 𝘄𝗮𝗹𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗼 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗳𝗼𝗼𝘁𝗯𝗮𝗹𝗹 𝗽𝗶𝘁𝗰𝗵 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗼𝗳 𝗺𝘆 𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝘄𝗵𝗲𝗻 𝗜 𝘀𝗲𝗲 𝗵𝗶𝗺.•
These two boys were sweet and smitten. In their little bubble everything was perfect. Of course until a homophobe shakes their foundation and Davey must come to terms with what he really wants.
•𝗜 𝗰𝗮𝗻’𝘁 𝗴𝗲𝘁 𝗲𝗻𝗼𝘂𝗴𝗵 𝗼𝗳 𝗵𝗶𝗺—𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘄𝗮𝗿𝗺𝘁𝗵 𝗼𝗳 𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗹𝗶𝗽𝘀 𝗼𝗻 𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗲, 𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝘁𝗼𝗻𝗴𝘂𝗲 𝗶𝗻 𝗺𝘆 𝗺𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗵, 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗯𝘂𝗿𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘀𝗺𝗼𝗼𝘁𝗵𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗼�� 𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝘀𝗸𝗶𝗻 𝘂𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗿 𝗺𝘆 𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗱𝘀. 𝗜 𝘄𝗮𝗻𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝗱𝗿𝗼𝘄𝗻 𝗶𝗻 𝗵𝗶𝗺, 𝘁𝗼 𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗸 𝘀𝗼 𝗳𝗮𝗿 𝗶𝗻𝘀𝗶𝗱𝗲 𝗵𝗶𝗺 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗜’𝗹𝗹 𝗻𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝗳𝗶𝗻𝗱 𝗺𝘆 𝘄𝗮𝘆 𝗼𝘂𝘁.•
For such a short book, it packed a helluva punch. A truly realistic gay ya romance that ends on a HFN. I could’ve done with more—maybe an epilogue, but I’m satisfied.
February 16, 2019
Davey is still trying to hide his sexually and Adam is out and owning it. Their eyes meet across the footy pitch and right from the start there is chemistry between them.
Adam invites Davey around to his place where they bond over football, video games and their love of Doctor Who. Yes, that's right, both boys are Whovians! I loved that little touch.
Davey's favourite doctor is Matt Smith and Adam's is David Tennant, but they move past this for a steamy yet sweet first make out session.
Davey holds off coming out from fear of how his team mates will react and because of this he nearly loses Adam, who was burnt by a past secret relationship. Davey comes out and while he and Adam do face some hate, for the most part the friends and family around them are supportive of their relationship - so a big YAY for that. I love a seeing positive examples.
Conclusion: Defensive Play was a quick and cute read that follows Davey as he gets his first boyfriend and comes out to his family and friends. I really enjoyed it and can see myself reading more from Jamie Deacon.
Adam invites Davey around to his place where they bond over football, video games and their love of Doctor Who. Yes, that's right, both boys are Whovians! I loved that little touch.
Davey's favourite doctor is Matt Smith and Adam's is David Tennant, but they move past this for a steamy yet sweet first make out session.
Davey holds off coming out from fear of how his team mates will react and because of this he nearly loses Adam, who was burnt by a past secret relationship. Davey comes out and while he and Adam do face some hate, for the most part the friends and family around them are supportive of their relationship - so a big YAY for that. I love a seeing positive examples.
Conclusion: Defensive Play was a quick and cute read that follows Davey as he gets his first boyfriend and comes out to his family and friends. I really enjoyed it and can see myself reading more from Jamie Deacon.
November 18, 2018
ARC received from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I loved this sweet story! As it’s a novella we get straight into the heart of the story. My heart absolutely went out to Davey. It’s hard enough being a teenager without having to deal with social anxiety and insufferable idiots.
Adam is such a wonderful character. I love how patient he was with Davey but even the most patient people have their limits. Their difficult situation put such a lump in my throat. But by the last chapter I was just shy of standing up and cheering for Davey’s strength. I read the final scenes with a huge smile on my face and tears in my eyes. Talk about all the feels.
A special mention has to go to Davey’s family for the being completely awesome supporting characters!
Some parts of this novella were difficult to read but I like that Jamie doesn’t shy away from human emotions.
I loved this sweet story! As it’s a novella we get straight into the heart of the story. My heart absolutely went out to Davey. It’s hard enough being a teenager without having to deal with social anxiety and insufferable idiots.
Adam is such a wonderful character. I love how patient he was with Davey but even the most patient people have their limits. Their difficult situation put such a lump in my throat. But by the last chapter I was just shy of standing up and cheering for Davey’s strength. I read the final scenes with a huge smile on my face and tears in my eyes. Talk about all the feels.
A special mention has to go to Davey’s family for the being completely awesome supporting characters!
Some parts of this novella were difficult to read but I like that Jamie doesn’t shy away from human emotions.
November 29, 2018
4 Stars
This was a sweet story of two young high school students, both stars of their respective school football teams. Adam is popular, and out and proud, while Davey is quieter, nerdier and closeted. I loved these two young men, they were so sweet, both individually and together as a couple. Although the story takes place over a rather short period of time, the romance felt natural and unhurried.
The story is well-written and it flowed well. I absolutely LOVED Davey’s coming out and although not everyone supported him, I loved that there were plenty who did, including his parents, who I adored. This was a really sweet and enjoyable story, with just a little bit angst added in for good measure, that I’d definitely recommend!
*copy provided by author/publisher in exchange for an honest review*
This was a sweet story of two young high school students, both stars of their respective school football teams. Adam is popular, and out and proud, while Davey is quieter, nerdier and closeted. I loved these two young men, they were so sweet, both individually and together as a couple. Although the story takes place over a rather short period of time, the romance felt natural and unhurried.
The story is well-written and it flowed well. I absolutely LOVED Davey’s coming out and although not everyone supported him, I loved that there were plenty who did, including his parents, who I adored. This was a really sweet and enjoyable story, with just a little bit angst added in for good measure, that I’d definitely recommend!
*copy provided by author/publisher in exchange for an honest review*
December 3, 2018
**I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest voluntary review. All opinions are my own and not influenced by my source.**
I always worry when I pick up a novella that things will seemed rushed or underdeveloped; but I'm happy to say that wasn't the case here. This was a quick read but one that packs a lot of punch and love. It tackles a lot and it does it well.
And it is also so genuine! I could easily see this story happening in real life and I think that's part of the charm of it. The problems and insecurities these characters have could happen to anyone and are likely happening right now. It's just a beautiful story that doesn't rely on overdramatic plot devices to be an entertaining read.
I loved watching Davey become confident in himself. I think his story is one many people (boys and girls, regardless of sexual orientation) can relate to--finding the confidence in who you truly are. He transforms before your eyes and I always appreciate that in my stories.
Adam is this great counterpart to Davey's story in so many ways. He isn't perfect--he too has had some bumps along the way--but I think that makes this story all that more charming by showing off those all too human qualities. It would have been great to get his POV as well but I learned enough about his through Davey to be satisfied with his character.
Simply put: adorable! I loved the slow burning tension this one had! It starts as a friendship and slowly becomes more. It was the perfect vessel to get the point of the story across.
A sweet, realistic read that will no doubt charm your heart!
Check out more spoiler-free book and series reviews on my blog SERIESousBookReviews.com as well as read book series recaps!
Full Review: https://wp.me/p7hLUw-2Nf
Actual Rating: 4/5
I always worry when I pick up a novella that things will seemed rushed or underdeveloped; but I'm happy to say that wasn't the case here. This was a quick read but one that packs a lot of punch and love. It tackles a lot and it does it well.
And it is also so genuine! I could easily see this story happening in real life and I think that's part of the charm of it. The problems and insecurities these characters have could happen to anyone and are likely happening right now. It's just a beautiful story that doesn't rely on overdramatic plot devices to be an entertaining read.
I loved watching Davey become confident in himself. I think his story is one many people (boys and girls, regardless of sexual orientation) can relate to--finding the confidence in who you truly are. He transforms before your eyes and I always appreciate that in my stories.
Adam is this great counterpart to Davey's story in so many ways. He isn't perfect--he too has had some bumps along the way--but I think that makes this story all that more charming by showing off those all too human qualities. It would have been great to get his POV as well but I learned enough about his through Davey to be satisfied with his character.
Simply put: adorable! I loved the slow burning tension this one had! It starts as a friendship and slowly becomes more. It was the perfect vessel to get the point of the story across.
A sweet, realistic read that will no doubt charm your heart!
Check out more spoiler-free book and series reviews on my blog SERIESousBookReviews.com as well as read book series recaps!
Full Review: https://wp.me/p7hLUw-2Nf
Actual Rating: 4/5
April 12, 2019
I really enjoyed this novella. It was easy to identify with Davey and his social anxiety. Jamie Deacon gives us a glimpse of the lives of his teenagers, their attitudes and fears, without being patronising. It addresses important issues in a natural way, which makes it a much needed addition to work suitable for Young Adults.
November 10, 2024
Warmed the Cockles of my Heart… ❤️❤️❤️‼️
I fell in love with Davey, his family (especially his sister, Elle), “some” of the guys on the team and naturally Adam. The narration by Joe Jameson, as always, was TOP NOTCH‼️
I’m looking forward to continuing with the rest of the series (I bought the lot of them, audiobooks as well)… 🥰🥰🥰‼️
I fell in love with Davey, his family (especially his sister, Elle), “some” of the guys on the team and naturally Adam. The narration by Joe Jameson, as always, was TOP NOTCH‼️
I’m looking forward to continuing with the rest of the series (I bought the lot of them, audiobooks as well)… 🥰🥰🥰‼️
December 1, 2018
Cute! :)
April 10, 2019
Very cute little story about a shy, anxious boy who struggles to overcome his fears and find happiness.
July 31, 2024
Way too short. Did not notice it was a novella. Story line was okay.
July 22, 2025
I’m wearing the biggest smile right now
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