Long Game: a Heated Rivalry Podcast

Declan and Silvan make it to the end of Heated Rivalry, but does Shane and Ilya’s story get the ending it deserves?

In Part 13, we dive into Chapter 27 and the epilogue, as Shane and Ilya begin to imagine what a future together might actually look like. We explore Ilya’s changing idea of “home,” the significance of Shane finally letting him further into his life, a semi-proposal disguised as a joke, and why the possibility of keeping their relationship secret for another ten years already feels impossible.

We also compare the book’s ending with the TV adaptation, including what the show adds to Shane’s relationship with his family and if the final chapter left us wanting something more. Does the epilogue provide the emotional payoff the book needs? And is Heated Rivalry really a complete story, or does it only fully work when viewed alongside The Long Game? We are definitely not finished with Shane and Ilya, or the Game Changers series.

The next episode of the Long Game podcast will be released on Sunday 30th August 2026.

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

Find us on instagram: longgame.heatedrivalry.pod
Write to us: longgamepod2481@gmail.com

Find Declan: 
Instagram: declan712
Tiktok: declanmccallion1

Find Silvan:
Instagram: Silvates
Tiktok: silvates1

Listen to the Podcast on:
Apple podcast: 

Spotify podcast: 

Amazon podcast: 

Watch it on youtube: https://youtu.be/C7Y2Qtgn2dc

Listen to Silvan’s ‘Silvates’ podcast here:
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/silvates/id1531620495
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2xMX59teVzpf6M86Cv7WG9?si=016f5477aed14697

chapters
00:00 Introduction to Heated Rivalry and Chapter 27 Overview
02:14 Exploring the Emotional Core of the Story
05:09 Themes of Home and Belonging
07:48 The Symbolism of Water and Vodka
09:42 Humor and Affection in Relationships
12:27 Reflections on the Book's Conclusion and Epilogue
22:17 The Role of the Epilogue in Storytelling
23:40 Emotional Arcs and Character Development
25:18 The Importance of Character Perspectives
28:52 Public Perception and Relationship Dynamics
30:40 The Challenges of Keeping Secrets in Relationships
33:18 Future Aspirations and Relationship Goals
37:08 Contrasting Endings: Satisfaction and Expectations
41:21 The Role of Charity in Character Development
44:10 Concluding Thoughts on the Book and Future Directions

Declan and Silvan finally reached that chapter.

In Part 12 of our Heated Rivalry deep dive, we tackle Chapter 26, and despite our best intentions, manage to spend an entire episode on just one chapter.

We start with the newly announced Season 2 casting and the conversation surrounding Harris, body representation and the expectations fans bring to adaptations. Then it’s back to the cottage, where Shane and Ilya are happier, more open and more in love than we’ve seen them before. Right up until David catches them together on the dock.

We unpack how differently this pivotal moment plays out in the book and TV series, why the adaptation gives Shane’s reaction so much more emotional weight, and what it means for him to have his choice about coming out suddenly taken away. We also look at Shane’s parents’ reaction, Ilya being introduced as his “lover”, the importance of Scott Hunter’s story, and the beautifully understated moment when Shane finally gets to call Ilya his boyfriend.

We discuss Rachel Reid’s growth as a writer, whether Ilya fell in love first, Shane’s relationship with control, queer relationships moving fast, why you should never abandon your friends for a new partner, and whether Declan should read The Count of Monte Cristo live on TikTok.

One chapter. One hour. We regret nothing.

The next episode of the Long Game podcast will be released on Sunday 23rd August 2026.

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

Find us on instagram: longgame.heatedrivalry.pod
Write to us: longgamepod2481@gmail.com

Find Declan: 
Instagram: declan712
Tiktok: declanmccallion1

Find Silvan:
Instagram: Silvates
Tiktok: silvates1

Listen to the Podcast on:
Apple podcast: 

Spotify podcast: 

Amazon podcast: 

Watch it on youtube: https://youtu.be/3ls4YLinsgE

Listen to Silvan’s ‘Silvates’ podcast here:
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/silvates/id1531620495
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2xMX59teVzpf6M86Cv7WG9?si=016f5477aed14697

Chapters
00:00 Casting Controversies and Expectations
06:17 Character Development and Writing Style
17:38 Comparative Analysis of Prose and Characterization
24:04 Contrasting Lifestyles: Ilya vs. Shane
25:27 Exploring Voyeurism and Risk in Relationships
27:56 The Sweetness of Love: Building Emotional Connections
29:38 The Impact of Being Caught: A Turning Point
31:07 Passive Protagonists: The Need for Action in Relationships
33:23 The Struggle for Control: Coming Out and Acceptance
34:41 Humor vs. Tension: Different Reactions to Stress
37:50 Validation and Growth: The Importance of Support
39:45 Parental Perspectives: How Families View Relationships
43:15 Character Perception: Ilya Through the Eyes of Others
46:14 Naming Relationships: The Significance of 'Lovers'
49:19 The Nature of Love and Attraction
51:45 Character Dynamics and Relationships
54:58 Parental Perspectives and Emotional Awareness
57:56 The Importance of Communication
01:02:16 Navigating Change and Personal Growth
01:05:32 Inspiration and Bravery in Relationships
01:07:44 The Rush of New Love
01:10:19 Support and Understanding in Relationships

Declan and Silvan are joined by one of the most talked-about voices in MM romance.

In this special interview, we're joined by bestselling author Scarlett Drake to discuss the phenomenal success of Oleander, her haunting queer reimagining of Great Expectations. 

Scarlett shares the twelve-year journey that took her from posting fanfiction on Wattpad to becoming one of the genre's most celebrated independent authors, and how self-publishing changed her life.

We take a deep dive into Oleander, exploring the inspiration behind the novel, its gothic atmosphere, the symbolism of the title, and the complex relationship between Jude and Cas. Scarlett opens up about writing morally complicated characters, depicting trauma responsibly, and why she believes Cass deserves empathy despite his flaws. We also discuss readers' divided reactions to the ending, the challenges of adapting classic stories for a modern queer audience, and the lasting influence of The Song of Achilles and A Little Life.

Scarlett also gives us an exciting first look at her next project: a dark, gothic MM retelling of a popular classic. We chat about her writing process, visualising scenes like films, balancing creativity with a day job, and her advice for aspiring authors hoping to publish their own stories.

There may be some spoilers when discussing the characters, so join us for a insightful conversation with Scarlett. 

The next episode of the Long Game podcast will be released on Sunday 16th August 2026.

Find Scarlett:
Insta: https://www.instagram.com/scarlettedrake?utm_source=qr

Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/scarlettedrake?utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator

Amazon: https://www.amazon.co.uk/stores/Scarlett-Drake/author/B09C6HH6FC?_encoding=UTF8&ref=ap_rdr&shoppingPortalEnabled=true

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

Find us on instagram: longgame.heatedrivalry.pod
Write to us: longgamepod2481@gmail.com

Find Declan: 
Instagram: declan712
Tiktok: declanmccallion1

Find Silvan:
Instagram: Silvates
Tiktok: silvates1

Listen to the Podcast on:
Apple podcast: 

Spotify podcast: 

Amazon podcast: 

Watch it on youtube: https://youtu.be/Z73ROmlKrlU

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

Declan and Silvan break down the Heated Rivalry book review in part 11. We dive into one of the most talked-about chapters and it is every bit as steamy as its reputation suggests.

We explore how Rachel Reid balances intimacy with emotional depth, discussing why these scenes feel so much more than just spice. From playful video game rivalry and unforgettable chemistry to conversations about consent, vulnerability and communication, we unpack what makes this chapter such a turning point for Shane and Ilya.

We also compare the book with the TV adaptation, looking at the emotional weight behind Ilya's fears, Shane's growing certainty, and the subtle differences that completely change how key moments land. Along the way, we discuss masculinity, queer relationships, hookup culture, and why Rachel Reid's writing continues to evolve as the novel progresses.

We reach one of the most emotional milestones in the entire story as Shane and Ilya finally say the words readers have been waiting years to hear. We break down the meaning behind their confession, the heartbreaking conversation about Ilya's mother, and why this chapter perfectly captures the blend of humour, tenderness and emotional honesty.

The next episode of the Long Game podcast will be released on Sunday 9th August 2026.

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

Find us on instagram: longgame.heatedrivalry.pod
Write to us: longgamepod2481@gmail.com

Find Declan: 
Instagram: declan712
Tiktok: declanmccallion1

Find Silvan:
Instagram: Silvates
Tiktok: silvates1

Listen to the Podcast on:
Apple podcast: 

Spotify podcast: 

Amazon podcast: 

Watch it on youtube: 

Listen to Silvan’s ‘Silvates’ podcast here:
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/silvates/id1531620495
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2xMX59teVzpf6M86Cv7WG9?si=016f5477aed14697

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Heated Rivalry Book Review
01:27 Exploring Emotional and Physical Intimacy
04:58 The Importance of Shared Interests in Relationships
08:22 The Evolution of Writing in Heated Rivalry
12:11 Consent and Communication in Intimate Relationships
16:11 The Dynamics of Hookup Culture
19:12 Character Depth and Self-Perception
21:17 Navigating Emotional Vulnerability
25:02 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
30:12 The Butterfly Effect in Drafting Decisions
34:41 Family Dynamics and Their Impact
38:33 Testing Boundaries in Relationships
45:01 Confessions of Love and Vulnerability
52:02 Humor and Intimacy in Relationships
53:06 Creating Meaningful Connections Through Charity

Declan and Silvan are at The Cottage in Part 10 of our Heated Rivalry book review.
We unpack one of the funniest chapters in the novel, from eight burgers and "stupid Canadian wolfbird" to the effortless comedy Rachel Reid gives Ilya throughout these scenes. Beneath the laughter lies one of the book's most important emotional turning points.

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

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

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

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

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

Find us on instagram: longgame.heatedrivalry.pod
Write to us: longgamepod2481@gmail.com

Find Declan: 
Instagram: declan712
Tiktok: declanmccallion1

Find Silvan:
Instagram: Silvates
Tiktok: silvates1

Listen to the Podcast on:
Apple podcast: 

Spotify podcast: 

Amazon podcast: 

Watch it on youtube: 

Listen to Silvan’s ‘Silvates’ podcast here:
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/silvates/id1531620495
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2xMX59teVzpf6M86Cv7WG9?si=016f5477aed14697

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Cottage Chapter
02:31 Humor and Levity in the Story
05:10 Adaptation Insights: Book vs. TV Show
08:11 Creative Trust in Adaptations
09:25 Superhero Fatigue and Audience Expectations
09:44 The Need for Quality LGBTQ+ Stories
10:34 Character Dynamics: Shane and Ilya
10:46 Exploring Shane's Internal Struggles
13:44 The Impact of Micro-Rejections
16:29 Ilya's Caretaking Role and Its Consequences
24:33 The Caretaker Role of Ilya
27:13 Contrasting Upbringings: Ilya vs. Shane
30:15 Character Development: The Evolution of Shane
35:00 Emotional Intimacy vs. Physical Connection
39:18 Navigating Grief and Vulnerability
43:55 The Balance of Humor and Seriousness
47:58 The Writer's Responsibility: Depth in Storytelling
57:29 Community Connection: Reflections on the Meetup