Only denials and retreats (5)
I believe the answer is:
nooks
'retreats' is the definition.
(nook is a kind of retreat)
I can't explain the rest of the clue.
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for nooks that I've seen before include "Recesses" , "Sheltered corners" , "Cubbyholes" , "out-of-the-way places" , "secluded parts" .)