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Russian Bear
Of Russian Myth and Lore
Family. In Mischa's opinion, you can't live with them. Period. That's why he's so reluctant to let Tom meet them, but Mischa's family decides that they'd like to meet Tom. And an order is an order.
This is a once in a lifetime chance for Tom to see a Russian bear in its natural environment. Mischa's family seems friendly enough, at least until Mischa's uncle sends Tom out into the woods by himself. In the middle of the night. However, there's more to Mischa's Russian background than Tom knew. In the quiet summer night, Tom learns a thing or two about Russian myth and lore - and about family.
This story is part of the 2011 Charity Sip Blitz collection. More than thirty authors have written short fiction pieces and have agreed to donate all proceeds of the sales of these stories to the It Gets Better Project. Torquere Press Inc. will match the authors' donations completely.
This is a once in a lifetime chance for Tom to see a Russian bear in its natural environment. Mischa's family seems friendly enough, at least until Mischa's uncle sends Tom out into the woods by himself. In the middle of the night. However, there's more to Mischa's Russian background than Tom knew. In the quiet summer night, Tom learns a thing or two about Russian myth and lore - and about family.
This story is part of the 2011 Charity Sip Blitz collection. More than thirty authors have written short fiction pieces and have agreed to donate all proceeds of the sales of these stories to the It Gets Better Project. Torquere Press Inc. will match the authors' donations completely.
27 pages, ebook
First published September 15, 2011
90 people want to read
About the author
C.B. Conwy
18 books168 followersDoing relatively sane and responsible things during the day, I'm always looking forward to coming home to see what my characters have been up to. It’s only very rarely what I want them to do, but there you go. I have no problems whatsoever reading both Flaubert and smut (although not at the same time), and the only thing I like more than chocolate is a good comfort read.
To me, the best thing about writing is the rush; it’s almost a physical high when you’re writing and it’s going well. As for the worst part: Nobody ever told me that fictional characters do exactly as they please! All that talk about ‘the author’s intention’? This author is running around, desperately trying to figure out what my heroes want to do and then coaxing everybody into something vaguely resembling a consistent plot. Sigh.
To me, the best thing about writing is the rush; it’s almost a physical high when you’re writing and it’s going well. As for the worst part: Nobody ever told me that fictional characters do exactly as they please! All that talk about ‘the author’s intention’? This author is running around, desperately trying to figure out what my heroes want to do and then coaxing everybody into something vaguely resembling a consistent plot. Sigh.
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
March 5, 2021
Writing a book about a country/location/language/name you are not familiar with? ASK. A. NATIVE.
Here is "Ask An Expert" link: https://www.goodreads.com/topic/group... . There is a "Regional Experts" thread. Please, use it.
Here is "Ask An Expert" link: https://www.goodreads.com/topic/group... . There is a "Regional Experts" thread. Please, use it.
September 20, 2011
This story made me smile. It is about family, acceptance and how some traditions only make sense once you experience them. It reminded me that, no matter who you become in life, your family always remembers and loves you for who you were long ago – as well as who you have become. If you are lucky.
Mischa and Tom, the main characters in this story, are very lucky. Told from Tom’s perspective, we find out about Mischa’s family, whom he has kept a secret for a long time. After having read the other books in this series (especially the first volume, A Russian Bear) it was amazing to see Mischa in a totally different light. Tom mentions that he’s a Dom, but we never see him act as such. The love between the two men becomes all the clearer now that it is devoid of any of the trappings of a scene.
I loved seeing Mischa in this different role. You can read this story on its own, and it will make you smile. But the full significance of the fun twist at the end will become even more poignant if you’ve read some of the other books as well. If you like stories with some cultural references (especially food), family gatherings and men who love each other deeply enough not to care what anyone else thinks, you will like this book.
NOTE: This book was provided by Torquere Press for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Mischa and Tom, the main characters in this story, are very lucky. Told from Tom’s perspective, we find out about Mischa’s family, whom he has kept a secret for a long time. After having read the other books in this series (especially the first volume, A Russian Bear) it was amazing to see Mischa in a totally different light. Tom mentions that he’s a Dom, but we never see him act as such. The love between the two men becomes all the clearer now that it is devoid of any of the trappings of a scene.
I loved seeing Mischa in this different role. You can read this story on its own, and it will make you smile. But the full significance of the fun twist at the end will become even more poignant if you’ve read some of the other books as well. If you like stories with some cultural references (especially food), family gatherings and men who love each other deeply enough not to care what anyone else thinks, you will like this book.
NOTE: This book was provided by Torquere Press for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
March 19, 2014
If you're already a fan of the series, this is a cute short story to pass the time while you wait for the next full novel.
October 9, 2012
3.5*
Cute short about Tom and Mischa from Russian Bear, and opposed to that book this one was very tame.
Mischa has been 'ordered' to visit his family and to bring Tom along...for some reason Mischa doesn't want to!
It was sweet and way too short!
Cute short about Tom and Mischa from Russian Bear, and opposed to that book this one was very tame.
Mischa has been 'ordered' to visit his family and to bring Tom along...for some reason Mischa doesn't want to!
It was sweet and way too short!
April 14, 2013
Free on the author's website:
http://www.cbconwy.com/of-russian-myt...
http://www.cbconwy.com/of-russian-myt...
October 20, 2011
Rating: B-
This review originally appeared at Brief Encounters Reviews
I was keen to review this story as I’d enjoyed reading CB Conwy’s A Russian Bear, and thought a short about Mischa and Tom could be fun. It certainly was a warm, humorous and pleasant read, and although a little different to what I was expecting after the novel, this wasn’t in a bad way.
A Russian Bear was most definitely a BDSM novel with many erotic scenes featuring a variety of toys, and gave the story of experienced Dom Mischa’s romance with young student Tom – a novice submissive just discovering his taste for kink. However, outside of their occasional scenes, Tom is a feisty character who won’t allow his grumpy boyfriend to call the shots.
Of Russian Myth and Lore is a very different beast – and if it weren’t for the occasional mention of Mischa being a Dom, you probably wouldn’t even be aware of that side of their relationship. This is partly because of Tom and Mischa don’t stay in role 24/7, but especially because Mischa shows another side of himself when in the company of his Russian family. There are some amusing scenes when Mischa first learns that his family have requested a visit from him and Tom: Tom can’t understand why Mischa insists they have to go yet is in such a foul mood at the prospect. As far as Tom is concerned, a holiday in Canada and a chance to learn more about his taciturn partner is something to really look forward to. Mischa is being his usual, tight-lipped self, and will only reveal that his family are very “Russian”, being “loud and rude and obnoxious”.
The aspects of Russian culture that Conwy reveals at Uncle Vasha’s cabin were an amusing blend of fermenting jars of kvas (a drink Tom isn’t too keen on sampling), vodka drinking (Mischa can’t hold his liquor), and midsummer myths. There are also references to Russian history, such as the story of how Vasha’s parents escaped the Communist regime, but these never felt heavy-handed or judgemental. Most of all, I was enchanted by how Conwy reveals the Russian character and how it is at work in Mischa: making him fatalistic, proud and plain-spoken. However, Mischa’s relatives also reveal a generous, honest and hospitable side to their culture and Tom is welcomed with open arms (after an initial practical joke).
There is much to enjoy in this short, and it rounds out the romance begun in A Russian Bear by delving into the reasons why Mischa is the way he is. Those who liked the novel should welcome this new chapter in the series. However, I’m not sure how well it would work as a standalone as I think you’re rather reliant on knowing the kinky side of Mischa and Tom’s relationship to make proper sense of why the things revealed here are significant to them. That said, if you’re interested in reading an affectionate account of a holiday with a very Russian family, with a bit of cute romance thrown in for good measure, then maybe being ignorant of the Dominant/submissive aspect of Tom and Mischa’s relationship wouldn’t be a problem.
This review originally appeared at Brief Encounters Reviews
I was keen to review this story as I’d enjoyed reading CB Conwy’s A Russian Bear, and thought a short about Mischa and Tom could be fun. It certainly was a warm, humorous and pleasant read, and although a little different to what I was expecting after the novel, this wasn’t in a bad way.
A Russian Bear was most definitely a BDSM novel with many erotic scenes featuring a variety of toys, and gave the story of experienced Dom Mischa’s romance with young student Tom – a novice submissive just discovering his taste for kink. However, outside of their occasional scenes, Tom is a feisty character who won’t allow his grumpy boyfriend to call the shots.
Of Russian Myth and Lore is a very different beast – and if it weren’t for the occasional mention of Mischa being a Dom, you probably wouldn’t even be aware of that side of their relationship. This is partly because of Tom and Mischa don’t stay in role 24/7, but especially because Mischa shows another side of himself when in the company of his Russian family. There are some amusing scenes when Mischa first learns that his family have requested a visit from him and Tom: Tom can’t understand why Mischa insists they have to go yet is in such a foul mood at the prospect. As far as Tom is concerned, a holiday in Canada and a chance to learn more about his taciturn partner is something to really look forward to. Mischa is being his usual, tight-lipped self, and will only reveal that his family are very “Russian”, being “loud and rude and obnoxious”.
The aspects of Russian culture that Conwy reveals at Uncle Vasha’s cabin were an amusing blend of fermenting jars of kvas (a drink Tom isn’t too keen on sampling), vodka drinking (Mischa can’t hold his liquor), and midsummer myths. There are also references to Russian history, such as the story of how Vasha’s parents escaped the Communist regime, but these never felt heavy-handed or judgemental. Most of all, I was enchanted by how Conwy reveals the Russian character and how it is at work in Mischa: making him fatalistic, proud and plain-spoken. However, Mischa’s relatives also reveal a generous, honest and hospitable side to their culture and Tom is welcomed with open arms (after an initial practical joke).
There is much to enjoy in this short, and it rounds out the romance begun in A Russian Bear by delving into the reasons why Mischa is the way he is. Those who liked the novel should welcome this new chapter in the series. However, I’m not sure how well it would work as a standalone as I think you’re rather reliant on knowing the kinky side of Mischa and Tom’s relationship to make proper sense of why the things revealed here are significant to them. That said, if you’re interested in reading an affectionate account of a holiday with a very Russian family, with a bit of cute romance thrown in for good measure, then maybe being ignorant of the Dominant/submissive aspect of Tom and Mischa’s relationship wouldn’t be a problem.
October 20, 2011
For those who read A Russian Bear this will be a must read. It's a very sweet follow-up to their story where Mischa is forced to introduce Tom to his family, something he dreads, even though they are not that bad, like many of us, our own family embarrasses us.
However for readers who have not read the first book, and decide to pick it up based on this short, they could be in for a bit of a surprise. While they mention a D/s relationship here, there is no read physical evidence of it as the first book deals much with the S/M side of things, moreso than the D/s side. So there could be people thinking it's a bit of a lightweight BDSM book which it is not. I also think it's an amazing book as long as you know what you are getting, it's well worth the read, I would just hate for someone to be unpleasantly surprised by what they find in A Russian Bear.
However for readers who have not read the first book, and decide to pick it up based on this short, they could be in for a bit of a surprise. While they mention a D/s relationship here, there is no read physical evidence of it as the first book deals much with the S/M side of things, moreso than the D/s side. So there could be people thinking it's a bit of a lightweight BDSM book which it is not. I also think it's an amazing book as long as you know what you are getting, it's well worth the read, I would just hate for someone to be unpleasantly surprised by what they find in A Russian Bear.
October 26, 2018
A very entertaining and HOT series! 4 novels and 6 short stories. Interesting characters with their own unique stories. Here is the reading order I use:
Who You Are – Mischa’s beginning as a Dom short
Russian Bear – Mischa & Tom meet
Malaria, cholorea, etc. – Mischa & Tom short
His Something – Ben & Toby short
New Years Resolution – Ben & Toby short
Happily Ever After – Mischa & Tom takes up right after Russian Bear
Alphabet Soup – Andy & CK (takes place same timeframe as Happily Ever After)
Saturday Night Live – Jeff’s short
Of Russian Myth and Lore – Mischa & Tom short
How to Domesticate a Russian Bear – Wrap-up story
Who You Are – Mischa’s beginning as a Dom short
Russian Bear – Mischa & Tom meet
Malaria, cholorea, etc. – Mischa & Tom short
His Something – Ben & Toby short
New Years Resolution – Ben & Toby short
Happily Ever After – Mischa & Tom takes up right after Russian Bear
Alphabet Soup – Andy & CK (takes place same timeframe as Happily Ever After)
Saturday Night Live – Jeff’s short
Of Russian Myth and Lore – Mischa & Tom short
How to Domesticate a Russian Bear – Wrap-up story
September 19, 2012
A little scene of Mischa and Tom visiting Mischa's family is so sweet. I'm bias; I love Mischa. This story I liked because of the family welcome of Tom by Mischa's family. Mischa's uncle and aunt are amusing. It gives us a little glimpse into how Mischa was raised. This story is short sweet. The scene in the woods is delightfully tasty and a lovely peek into Mischa and Tom's life. The flower garland part was my favourite. Recommended to m/m lovers who want to see how a D/s relationship doesn't always mean kinky sex.
September 12, 2012
Ah Mischa & Tom...gotta love em. This is another brief look at their life after the HEA of A Russian Bear. It is sweet & saccharine, but essential reading if you love the characters.
September 21, 2011
I love the Russian-immigrant cultural bits that CB weaves through this short story featuring Tom and Mischa from "A Russian Bear." Mischa dreads Tom meeting his family for a midsummer reunion, but Tom is way too curious to pass it up. Heartwarming and adorable!
January 3, 2013
Mischa and Tom visit Mischa's family members in Canada. This is all about people who love each other and about Russian traditions. This is not the usual D / s and BDSM which this author has accustomed us with these characters, but this is still a nice short story.
September 18, 2011
Good short m/m romance about Mischa and Tom going to Canada to visit Mischa's relatives.
September 19, 2011
A Russian Bear is one of my favorite books, so I am always happy to read more about Tom and Mischa. This was a cute story, where we got to meet some of Mischa's family.
November 17, 2011
So I really liked this one - but I realized this is about characters from previous books so now I need to go back and read them. DAMN! More books to buy.
July 23, 2013
fun quickie.
December 16, 2012
Beautiful story nicely written! Thank you.
February 20, 2013
This was a wonderful snippet into their life. Loved it.
March 4, 2013
This was a fun story to see Mischa get all flustered by a visit to his family. And I love how his family shows their love and acceptance of Tom.
July 22, 2013
Sweet, short and has Tom and Mischa. Enough said. I am becoming far too addicted to this wonderful couple.
December 7, 2013
This is a terrific little short story about Misha's family and Tom's first meeting with them. Very sweet and entertaining.
July 26, 2014
3.5 out of 5
Really nice free short. I wish it was part of the original story.
Really nice free short. I wish it was part of the original story.
September 8, 2014
Quick short story about Tom going to meet Mischa's family.
June 1, 2016
So adorable!
Conwy really nails it with these two characters, they are perfect together and no matter whose POV the author goes with they work so well.
Really cute story :)
Conwy really nails it with these two characters, they are perfect together and no matter whose POV the author goes with they work so well.
Really cute story :)
Read
January 4, 2017I enjoyed this, but I need to reread book 1.
owned-to-read
January 1, 2014*downloaded for free on ARE
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews