Heated Rivalry Book Review: Part 6 - Coming out

Heated Rivalry Book Review: Part 6 - Coming out

Declan and Silvan unpack Part 6 of the Heated Rivalry novel. Here, Shane finally says the words he's spent years avoiding, and everything between him and Ilya begins to change. We examine one of the novel's biggest emotional turning points as Shane comes out to Ilya, leading to a conversation that's surprisingly understated and deeply significant. We explore why Rachel Reid's character writing feels so authentic, how the TV adaptation chooses what to keep (and what to reinvent), and why this moment marks a new stage in Shane and Ilya's relationship. We also dive into Ilya's devastating family story, discussing the quiet reveal of his mother's death, his father's Alzheimer's, and how grief, trauma and emotional masking shape the person he becomes. Along the way we compare the novel with the TV series, debate Jacob Tierney's adaptation choices, and explain why Connor Storrie's unforgettable Russian monologue may be one of the show's finest moments. Request our meet up details on 19th July in Belfast here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfgNJIFlK10E3J7vjhrvgP6t6UFhcBfS0lqNVHyaTRFWL57XA/viewform?usp=publish-editor The next episode of the Long Game podcast will be released on Sunday 5th July 2026. Join our Long Game Podcast Book Club on Fable to read along with us each week.: https://fable.co/club/long-game-pod-book-club-with-long-game-pod-349252537194?invite=fc285de0-86ea-45c4-ab3f-8dcc82b8cad8&referralID=4tVUzsxlCC [https://fable.co/club/long-game-pod-book-club-with-long-game-pod-349252537194?invite=fc285de0-86ea-45c4-ab3f-8dcc82b8cad8&referralID=4tVUzsxlCC] Find us on instagram: longgame.heatedrivalry.pod Write to us: longgamepod2481@gmail.com [longgamepod2481@gmail.com] Find Declan:  Instagram: declan712 Tiktok: declanmccallion1 Find Silvan: Instagram: Silvates Tiktok: silvates1 Watch it on youtube: https://youtu.be/JadlJGRj9JQ Listen to Silvan’s ‘Silvates’ podcast here: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/silvates/id1531620495 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2xMX59teVzpf6M86Cv7WG9?si=016f5477aed14697 [https://open.spotify.com/show/2xMX59teVzpf6M86Cv7WG9?si=016f5477aed14697] Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Chapter 17 01:40 Shane's Coming Out Moment 09:24 Character Dynamics and Adaptation 14:25 Exploring Emotional Responses 24:18 The Impact of Grief and Loss 39:18 Navigating Grief and Emotional Defense Mechanisms 41:19 Shifting Tones: From Heavy to Light 42:10 Exploring Intimacy and Vulnerability 44:28 Understanding Complex Relationships 47:11 Proactive Communication in Relationships 49:35 The Complexity of Family Dynamics 51:15 The Absence of Monologues: A Narrative Choice 54:17 The Emotional Weight of Unexpressed Feelings 58:51 Cultural Identity and Language Barriers 01:02:42 The Struggle for Love and Acceptance 01:04:33 Intimacy Through Shared Spaces 01:08:37 The Obsession with Winning vs. Love 01:11:43 The Fear of Losing Someone 01:14:24 Taking Action in Relationships 01:14:43 Missed Opportunities in Narrative

Heated Rivalry Book Review: Part 5 - A Problem You Can Solve

In Part 5 of our Heated Rivalry book club series, Silvan is joined by special guest Alicia, long-time listener and book club member. Together, we unpack Shane’s honest conversation with Rose and the realisation that the future he imagined for himself may not be the one he truly wants. Our discussion explores the differences between the book and the TV adaptation, from Rose’s role in Shane’s journey of self-discovery to the introduction of Svetlana and the ways both versions of the story handle friendship, family, and identity. Silvan and Alicia also dive into the subtle emotional beats of Ilya’s perspective, examining the heartbreak, longing, and misunderstandings that shape the reunion in Tampa. Along the way, Alicia brings a unique perspective as a Spanish reader who chose to read the novels in English, leading to a fascinating conversation about language, translation, immigration, and how cultural identity shapes both Shane and Ilya’s experiences.  Find Alicia on instagram: mividaennaranja  Join our Long Game Podcast Book Club on Fable to read along with us each week.: https://fable.co/club/long-game-pod-book-club-with-long-game-pod-349252537194?invite=fc285de0-86ea-45c4-ab3f-8dcc82b8cad8&referralID=4tVUzsxlCC [https://fable.co/club/long-game-pod-book-club-with-long-game-pod-349252537194?invite=fc285de0-86ea-45c4-ab3f-8dcc82b8cad8&referralID=4tVUzsxlCC] Find us on instagram: longgame.heatedrivalry.pod Write to us: longgamepod2481@gmail.com [longgamepod2481@gmail.com] Find Declan:  Instagram: declan712 Tiktok: declanmccallion1 Find Silvan: Instagram: Silvates Tiktok: silvates1 Listen to the Podcast on: Apple podcast:  Spotify podcast:  Amazon podcast:  Watch it on youtube: https://youtu.be/t9KnTDF_W0c [https://youtu.be/t9KnTDF_W0c] Listen to Silvan’s ‘Silvates’ podcast here: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/silvates/id1531620495 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2xMX59teVzpf6M86Cv7WG9?si=016f5477aed14697 [https://open.spotify.com/show/2xMX59teVzpf6M86Cv7WG9?si=016f5477aed14697] Chapters 00:00 Guest Introduction and Community Engagement 01:36 Discovery of Heated Rivalry 03:28 Discussion of Chapter 15 and Character Impressions 07:13 Sexual Dynamics in the Story 12:42 Character Development and Representation 18:06 Women in Hockey and Their Knowledge 22:57 Exploring Problem-Solving Perspectives 24:46 Character Dynamics and Misunderstandings 25:43 Inner Monologues and Relationship Realizations 28:57 Coping Mechanisms and Emotional Repression 32:06 Language and Cultural Adaptation 39:01 Elia's Language Journey 40:30 Cultural Displacement and Identity 44:19 The Immigrant Experience 47:44 Language and Emotional Expression 50:39 Reflections on Representation in Media

Next Door Director Caroline Plyler on Queer Storytelling & Vertical Filmmaking

Declan and Silvan sit down with Caroline Plyler, director of the hit vertical romance Next Door, to discuss her journey from actor and script supervisor to first-time director. Caroline shares how her own experiences  shaped the story, why she wanted to create the "queer Disney Channel movie we never got," and what it has been like seeing audiences around the world connect with Kit and River's love story. We explore the rise of vertical filmmaking, how platforms like Candy Jar are changing the way stories are discovered, and why Caroline believes mobile-first storytelling is here to stay. She also gives us a behind-the-scenes look at directing Next Door, working with first-time leads, collaborating with cast and crew, and the realities of making a film for today's social-media generation. We discuss queer representation in media, the importance of joyful LGBTQ+ stories, Caroline's love of Sophia Coppola, the books she'd love to adapt, and her advice for aspiring filmmakers looking to break into the industry. Next Door is available now on Candy Jar. Fine Caroline on Instagram and Tiktok: carolinegrayplyler Find CandyJar on Instagram and Tiktok: watchcandyjar Join our Long Game Podcast Book Club on Fable to read along with us each week.: https://fable.co/club/long-game-pod-book-club-with-long-game-pod-349252537194?invite=fc285de0-86ea-45c4-ab3f-8dcc82b8cad8&referralID=4tVUzsxlCC [https://fable.co/club/long-game-pod-book-club-with-long-game-pod-349252537194?invite=fc285de0-86ea-45c4-ab3f-8dcc82b8cad8&referralID=4tVUzsxlCC] Find us on instagram: longgame.heatedrivalry.pod Write to us: longgamepod2481@gmail.com [longgamepod2481@gmail.com] Find Declan:  Instagram: declan712 Tiktok: declanmccallion1 Find Silvan: Instagram: Silvates Tiktok: silvates1 Listen to the Podcast on: Apple podcast:  Spotify podcast:  Amazon podcast:  Watch it on youtube: https://youtu.be/NqD-jMfkq7g Listen to Silvan’s ‘Silvates’ podcast here: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/silvates/id1531620495 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2xMX59teVzpf6M86Cv7WG9?si=016f5477aed14697 [https://open.spotify.com/show/2xMX59teVzpf6M86Cv7WG9?si=016f5477aed14697] Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Next Door and Its Impact 02:41 Caroline's Directorial Debut and Personal Connection 06:01 The Unique Appeal of Next Door 10:20 Creating a Wholesome Queer Narrative 12:03 The Importance of Diverse Queer Representation 15:18 Audience Reactions and Surprises 16:59 Caroline's Journey to Directing 20:01 The Role of Script Supervision 25:24 The Importance of Preparation in Filmmaking 35:16 Preparation and Respect for the Crew 36:06 Directorial Styles and Preferences 38:06 Inspirations from Iconic Directors 39:39 The Journey with Candy Jar Productions 42:00 Resonating with the Story of Nextdoor 46:28 Creating a Lighthearted Queer Romance 48:52 Vertical Storytelling: A New Format 54:27 The Impact of Second Screen Watching 01:03:04 The Future of Vertical Storytelling 01:04:32 Opportunities with Candy Jar Productions 01:06:49 The Impact of Fan Creations 01:09:08 Adapting Queer Stories 01:16:01 Advice for Aspiring Filmmakers 01:19:42 Quickfire Questions with Caroline 01:24:30 The Heart of 'Next Door'

Heated Rivalry Book Review: Part 4 - Rose

Declan and Silvan dive into Part 4 of our Heated Rivalry book review series. This is one of the most important introductions in the entire story, Rose. We compare Rachel Reid's novel with the TV adaptation, and explore why Rose feels different on the page versus on screen. I’m e discuss how Sophie Nélisse's performance elevated the character and why Shane and Rose's relationship serves such an important purpose in Shane's journey toward self-acceptance. Along the way, we unpack the idea of "meeting the right woman," reflect on our own experiences of questioning identity, and discuss how both the book and show portray the pressure to follow a traditional path before embracing who you really are. We also spend time breaking down the club scene, from wardrobe choices and celebrity culture to the emotional tension between Shane and Ilya. Does Shane and Rose's whirlwind romance feel longer than it actually is? We dfiscuss if Rachel Reid missed an opportunity to explore Shane's perspective more deeply during one of the story's most pivotal moments. This episode is packed with character analysis, adaptation comparisons, personal reflections, and plenty of tangents about dancing, fashion, skinny jeans, and why Rose remains one of the most beloved characters in the Heated Rivalry universe. The next episode of the podcast will be published on Sunday 14th June. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Rose and Character Comparisons 02:41 The Role of Rose in Shane's Journey 05:50 Language and Feminist Commentary in Character Dialogue 08:09 Shane's Internal Struggle with Identity 11:17 The Dynamics of Shane and Rose's Relationship 13:18 The Impact of Time on Relationships in the Story 16:04 Celebrity Culture and Public Perception 19:00 The Club Scene: Book vs. TV Show 22:08 Fashion and Social Expectations in Club Culture 29:00 Body Image and Insecurities 31:56 Fashion and Identity 35:51 Atmosphere in Storytelling 39:21 Dancing Dynamics 44:28 Sexual Tension and Character Development 49:08 Missed Opportunities in Narrative Join our Long Game Podcast Book Club on Fable to read along with us each week.: https://fable.co/club/long-game-pod-book-club-with-long-game-pod-349252537194?invite=fc285de0-86ea-45c4-ab3f-8dcc82b8cad8&referralID=4tVUzsxlCC [https://fable.co/club/long-game-pod-book-club-with-long-game-pod-349252537194?invite=fc285de0-86ea-45c4-ab3f-8dcc82b8cad8&referralID=4tVUzsxlCC] Find us on instagram: longgame.heatedrivalry.pod Write to us: longgamepod2481@gmail.com [longgamepod2481@gmail.com] Find Declan:  Instagram: declan712 Tiktok: declanmccallion1 Find Silvan: Instagram: Silvates Tiktok: silvates1 Listen to the Podcast on: Apple podcast:  Spotify podcast:  Amazon podcast:  Watch it on youtube: https://youtu.be/hnlLC04hXjU Listen to Silvan’s ‘Silvates’ podcast here: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/silvates/id1531620495 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2xMX59teVzpf6M86Cv7WG9?si=016f5477aed14697 [https://open.spotify.com/show/2xMX59teVzpf6M86Cv7WG9?si=016f5477aed14697]

Heated Rivalry Fan fiction Part 2: Angst, Tropes & Emotional Damage

Declan and Silvan are joined by Jenn from the Book Refuge for Part 2 of our Fan fiction and AO3 episode. We go deeper into the world of AO3 and fancition.  We cover tags such as hurt/comfort and soulmate Alternate Universess to secret marriages, social media disasters, and the infamous plane crash fic. Jenn guides us through the stories that have captured the Heated Rivalry fandom's imagination. We explore why readers are drawn to angst, whether suffering makes a love story more meaningful and how fanfiction allows us to revisit beloved characters in entirely new ways while keeping the original story intact. We also unpack the difference between canon, fanon, and headcanon, discuss why some fanfiction can successfully transition into traditionally published novels while others lose the very thing that made them special and debate what makes readers emotionally invest in a story in the first place. Jenn puts us to the test with a fanfiction recommendation game, where we rank a selection of Heated Rivalry fanfics based only on their summaries. Some are romantic, some are chaotic, some are surprisingly emotional and a few leave us wondering what exactly we've gotten ourselves into. This episode is a celebration of fandom creativity, storytelling, and the many ways readers keep Shane and Ilya's story alive long after the final page. The next episode of the podcast will be published on Sunday 7th June. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Fanfiction and AO3 01:46 Exploring Heated Rivalry Tropes 07:22 The Community of Fanfiction Writers 11:20 Understanding Gender Dynamics in Romance 18:09 Recommendations for New Readers of Romance 18:39 Exploring Romance Preferences 20:56 Character Connection in Storytelling 23:40 The Value of Emotional Stakes 26:33 The Role of Antiheroes in Fan Fiction 29:03 Transforming Villains into Heroes 32:25 The Impact of Fan Fiction on Canon 35:55 The Appeal of Catastrophe in Stories 39:57 The Creative Process in Fan Fiction 42:46 The Challenge of Traditional Publishing 45:24 Understanding Canon vs. Fanon 51:40 The Separation of Fan Fiction and Traditional Publishing 01:08:00 The Fallout of Public Breakups 01:11:01 Fan Fiction and Social Media Dynamics 01:13:58 Exploring Alternate Universes in Fan Fiction 01:19:36 The Complexity of Relationships in Fiction 01:23:44 The Appeal of Fake Relationships 01:28:42 The Intrigue of Cheating and Open Relationships Join our Long Game Podcast Book Club on Fable to read along with us each week.: https://fable.co/club/long-game-pod-book-club-with-long-game-pod-349252537194?invite=fc285de0-86ea-45c4-ab3f-8dcc82b8cad8&referralID=4tVUzsxlCC [https://fable.co/club/long-game-pod-book-club-with-long-game-pod-349252537194?invite=fc285de0-86ea-45c4-ab3f-8dcc82b8cad8&referralID=4tVUzsxlCC] Find Jenn: Instagram: thebookrefuge18 Youtube: TheBookRefuge Find us on instagram: longgame.heatedrivalry.pod Write to us: longgamepod2481@gmail.com [longgamepod2481@gmail.com] Find Declan:  Instagram: declan712 Tiktok: declanmccallion1 Find Silvan: Instagram: Silvates Tiktok: silvates1 Listen to the Podcast on: Apple podcast:  Spotify podcast:  Amazon podcast:  Watch it on youtube: https://youtu.be/ua60zP9zahk Listen to Silvan’s ‘Silvates’ podcast here: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/silvates/id1531620495 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2xMX59teVzpf6M86Cv7WG9?si=016f5477aed14697 [https://open.spotify.com/show/2xMX59teVzpf6M86Cv7WG9?si=016f5477aed14697] Fic recommendations we spoke about in this episode: Mutually Assured Exposure: https://archiveofourown.org/works/77434821/chapters/202760196 [https://archiveofourown.org/works/77434821/chapters/202760196]   Slipfast:  https://archiveofourown.org/works/73643456/chapters/191997696 [https://archiveofourown.org/works/73643456/chapters/191997696]  The Game Plan: https://archiveofourown.org/works/42797457/chapters/107510184 [https://archiveofourown.org/works/42797457/chapters/107510184]   Something You Can Fix: https://archiveofourown.org/works/76495636 [https://archiveofourown.org/works/76495636]  Shane Hollander is dating a nice man from Montreal: https://archiveofourown.org/works/77871996/chapters/204023421 [https://archiveofourown.org/works/77871996/chapters/204023421]  If This Is It: https://archiveofourown.org/works/80245286/chapters/210674496 [https://archiveofourown.org/works/80245286/chapters/210674496]