Pint-sized Dave Tanaka, coxswain of his Cambridge college's rowing team, loves having eight strapping athletes hanging on his every word, their strength at his command. But there's one in particular whose attention he craves: Archie, who rows stroke for the side.

Six-foot-six Archie acts like he's just one of the lads -- although the way he calls out some of the other rowers on their thoughtless comments makes Dave's heart beat harder for him. But is there anything personal in it?

Tensions rise as they compete in the inter-college races, the Bumps ... and as they prepare for their final race, the one that will determine if they win their oars, Dave still doesn't know if Archie is in the same boat as him, in more ways than one!

Includes the short story mini-sequel, Firm Pressure.