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Elijah

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If I’m going to hell, I’m going to enjoy the ride.

Elijah

And then there was me. The last Baker to get married, to start a family, to be something. There’s a heavy weight that comes with being the oldest and being a failure.

Some peace and quiet will calm the voices that tell me I’m losing this game of life. But while I hope for sanctuary in solitude, instead, I end up finding it in her.

We only exchange first names and as few details as possible. After an incredible night together, I wake up alone and realize it’s just my luck that I’ll never see such a wonderful woman again.

Until I do. In my classroom. Not only is she far younger than I thought, but she’s my student.

The weeks of longing for her feel wrong, dirty. And yet I can’t get it to go away.

Rebecca

In one night my whole world flips upside down. Not only did I fall into bed with a complete stranger, only knowing his first name, but I did so at my boss’s wedding. Then I made the stupid decision to sneak out before morning.

My rationale is that I’ll never see him again, why draw out the inevitable awkward goodbye.

When I can’t stop thinking about him, I chalk it up to an amazing night. I wouldn’t know how to track him down even if I wanted to.

Classes finally start, and I’m sure it’ll work to get him out of my mind. Until I walk into my econ class and see him standing at the podium.

He makes it clear that he wants nothing more to do with me, that we’re strictly professor and student.

If that’s the case, how come he can’t seem to stay away?


Elijah is an adult romance novel, intended for audiences 18 and older. Content warnings include strong language, mature situations, explicit sexual scenes, alcohol use, mentions of death, grieving, a college campus hostage situation, a shooting, and mental health.

246 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 28, 2024

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About the author

Shayna Astor

20 books317 followers
Shayna Astor is a native New Yorker, currently residing upstate with her husband and two children. Getting all four seasons, her favorite are the cool, crisp days of fall.

When Shayna isn't writing, she can be found reading, spending time with her kids, or playing video games with her husband. Being an avid coffee drinker, she can almost always be found with a cup of coffee in her hands.

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5 stars
41 (64%)
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19 (29%)
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3 (4%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
Profile Image for Kayla Price.
212 reviews16 followers
March 21, 2024
Eli and Bex are so cute together even with the age difference!! I loved this story so much! I’m gonna have to go back and read Alina and Mazie!!!
Profile Image for Kristi.
461 reviews11 followers
March 28, 2024
He gave up everything for them. He was always around and available. He deserves his moment.

The final installment. I'm so sad it's over but yes...it was totally worth it. Reading the sister books was fantastic and seeing how Elijah was always so responsible for them warmed my heart. I was so excited to see his POV about his sisters and his life.

When Eli meets Bex at Masie and Zach's wedding, he is fighting his demons. He meets Rebecca (Bex) and on a whim invites her back to his room to talk. Talking turns into more and 💥, then she's gone. Until she's in his Econ class for the semester.

Elijah and Bex have real, true and raw love. It's deep and hot and unfolds beautifully, each of them helping the other fight their demons. Bex fits. She fits into his life, into the coffee shop with his sisters and into his world. I wondered if he would be able to allow her to continue fitting.

Eli gets his HEA and it's beautiful. This series ended with my heart full.
Profile Image for Lauren.
1,016 reviews2 followers
March 31, 2024
This is the final book in the Baker Sibling series and what a way to end things.
Eli deserved his happy ever after and I’m so pleased he found it with Bex.
The writing was just as flawless as previous books and it was wonderful to see more of previous characters I adored too.
I loved it.
A great read!
Profile Image for Bec.
805 reviews17 followers
April 2, 2024
This book was a great ending to the Baker Siblings series. In Elijah we have age gap, forbidden love and boy was it spicy! It was great for Elijah to finally get his happy every after, even with all the bumps along the way. I was a little frustrated with Elijah to start with, he seemed to have a whiny, why me attitude, but I guess I will forgive him given everything he went through. I love how the Baker siblings look after each other and it was great to see the sisters had Elijah's back, and took Bex under their wing as a Three Stick employee. Great way to round out the series.
167 reviews2 followers
March 25, 2024
This book is the fourth and final book in the Baker sibling series. Elijah was the perfect way to end this series. As always it was great seeing Olivia, Alina, and Mazie’s stories continue in the background as we conclude this series. I really enjoyed reading everything from Eli’s perspective and his life.

Eli in the past three books has been aloof so to speak. He’s the fiercely loyal and protective older brother who took on the fatherly role after their parents passed away. But due to that he gave up his dreams to stay back and be there for his younger siblings. In this story we see his struggles after the trauma he faced in the last book. In addition to seeing how he is in a way complacent but not happy with here he is. His book shows his struggles and also his growth throughout it. I love how the end shows where everything for the siblings fell into place.

Bex is one of the Three Sticks newest workers and a student… in Eli’s class. She is wise, funny, and younger than Eli’s youngest sister.

You will see how Eli and Bex met, the spark, and how their relationship evolved from there.

This was a quick and easy read, and an amazing story and conclusion to the Bakers! It deals with inner struggles and deciding to do what’s right for you. You see Eli and Bex’s relationship grow and the obstacles they face. I really liked this story and may have even shed a few tears towards the end of the story.
307 reviews7 followers
April 16, 2024
Elijah is the fourth and final book in The Baker Sibling Series. Each book in the series follows one of the Baker siblings and their love interest, and could be read as stand alone story, though I recommend reading the series in order so you do not end up with major spoilers about previous stories, as well as assist in understanding some of the latest story.

Have you ever over hyped yourself for the final book in a series, giving it huge expectations to live up to, and then had it belly flop? That is kind of how I feel about Elijah. I absolutely fell in love with the character in the first book, and that love only grew in the next two books after that. I was so excited for Elijah after finishing book three in the series, it took me less than an hour to start reading him. The first couple chapters were encouraging. On top of the small town, almost cozy romantic plots that we got in the first three books, Elijah promised a fabulously angsty, age gap, new beginnings tale. And then I felt like we hit a plateau, and never got off of it. The following chapters were not only extremely predictable, but seemed to rely on basic spicy scenes to carry the reader through to the next predictable action. I also felt let down at the very end, left with way more questions about the Bakers and their families than I should have for the final book in the series.
Profile Image for Amanda.
94 reviews2 followers
March 28, 2024
ARC Review:

The best for last? Absolutely! Elijah completely blew me away! I’m not sure what I was expecting, but Elijah and Bex obliterated all of my expectations.

Elijah and Bex meet at a wedding and almost immediately fall into a one-night stand. With no exchange of full names or numbers, Bex slips out early in the morning, leaving them both wanting more. That is until the first day of college classes when she walks into her Economics class taught by Professor Baker. 😏

While I’m not a huge fan of age gap or professor-student romances, Shayna has a special talent for making me love everything she writes regardless of the tropes. The spice kicks in really early on, which is always pleasant. There’s no third-act breakup, and you still get Shayna’s signature angst, which is where I think she excels the most.

I’m going to miss the Bakers, but I can’t wait to see what’s next!
Profile Image for Nasi.
243 reviews13 followers
May 27, 2024
It was really a beautiful story about the last Baker sibling, all of the siblings are great and lovely. I totally enjoyed reading the whole series and liked every character and can say Elijah's story is my favorite.

Eli(34) and Bex(19) they had a great connection from the very first moment when they met. They are so great together even though they have an age gap of 14 years but let me say it felt nothing wrong while reading. Elijah and Bex have a real and true love, she fits into the Baker Fam perfectly well. Their feelings to each other was so deep and the way how Bex showed Eli how worthy he is and both helping each other to fight their demons. It was, like i said so beautifully well written.

After he sacrificed a lot for his sisters im so glad and happy that Eli gets his HEA the way he deserved with Bex. It couldn't be more perfect.
Profile Image for Shyanne Verbitsky.
20 reviews5 followers
March 23, 2024
Oh my dear, sweet Elijah. I waited so long (really it wasn't that long, but it always feels that way, doesn't it?) for Elijah's story, and it didn't disappoint (unless you count wanting more).

I really wish I had a better understanding of why Eli doesn't find himself worthy of anything good, but he really does. No matter the circumstances, family it or not, not everyone would sacrifice so much for their younger sisters.

I like how any turmoil or disaster between Bex (also how amazing is that name, I love it) and Eli didn't take forever for a resolution. I also enjoyed the fact that even though Bex is younger than Liv was in her story, she has far fewer childish reactions.

Elijah's book was the perfect round out to the Baker sibling series.
Profile Image for Deanie.
886 reviews22 followers
March 28, 2024
This was so utterly sweet and a great conclusion to the series!

Eli and Bex fell hard and fast together and it was definitely a bit insta-love, it was still an enjoyable read and not at all cringey. I liked how they were together.

I also really liked how the family was all there for them, both individually and together. Eli leaning on his brothers and sisters was seriously sweet and it was nice to see him letting his guard down.

I loved how there was no third act breakup! Overall it was a very wholesome story with a whole heaping of spice and I could’ve kept reading for hours longer.

We got an unedited preview of the next release and I’m super excited to check it out!! Sounds like it might have some great angst so bring on Fall 2024!!
Profile Image for DFS.
197 reviews3 followers
March 29, 2024
This is the final entry into The Baker Siblings series. It doesn't leave the reader wanting more. This is more than a fitting end to the series. There are a lot of books with the student and professor trope, but Shayna Astor brings her own spin onto the trope with Elijah. Elijah isn't the typical professor character. He's a normal guy with problems and trauma that doesn't leave him brooding, but Elijah does have to confront these problems. Elijah can come across as a "poor me, why me" character in the beginning, but dealing with the trauma experienced, his mindset and feelings are valid. Bex is smart and funny and her relationship with Elijah flows so naturally. A one night stand turning into a full relationship.
423 reviews4 followers
April 1, 2024
I've thoroughly enjoyed every book of the Baker series, but hands down, this onemay just be my favorite! Each Baker sibling grapples with their own past traumas, but for Elijah struggles a bit more, as last year's events only compounded the struggle. When he crosses paths with Bex, sparks ignite. Shayna has crafted remarkable characters; Elijah, conscientious and caring to a fault, especially with his siblings, and Bex, light-hearted, diligent in her work as a student and barista, and devoted to her family. Despite others' reservations, Bex and Elijah are irresistibly drawn to each other. Whether you dive into this as a standalone or after the first three books in the series, you're in for a treat!
Profile Image for DeeDeeWReads.
1,212 reviews13 followers
April 4, 2024
Here we are. Our circle is coming to a close. It's Elijah's story, his time to shine, and hopefully find that HEA. As I sit here and write this review, I am reflecting on what has come before, and realized something. Our Baker siblings, their books, their stories, have done youngest to oldest. Was that on purpose? Maybe, maybe not.

We have seen Eli many times in his sisters' books. We have seen his highs and his lows. We have hurt with him as we did his sisters. Can he get his HEA and find the love his sisters all have. This book took you through some rough emotions, but even on the chapter where I held my tissue tight, it was beautiful.

Someday, maybe we'll see something from the next generation, but until then, happy life to the Baker Siblings!
Profile Image for All You Read is Love.
180 reviews13 followers
April 19, 2024
Elijah is the oldest of the Baker Siblings. He not only had the same trauma as his 3 sisters did, loosing their parents but he also had trauma from a hostage situation at the college he works at. I absolutely loved how Shayna included that and the healing process he had to go thru. His book felt very raw and emotional and I just loved Elijah.
When him and Bex met sparks were definitely flying and their love story is so very special and beautiful. Its a true moment of if it's meant to be it will happen. All the stars had to align just perfectly!
I'm so sad to see this series come to an end but I am so happy that we got Eli's story. I also loved how Shayna did the ending. It gave so much closure to the series and was done just perfectly!
1,206 reviews6 followers
March 25, 2024
Eli and Bex meet at Eli's sister Mazie's wedding and neither can forget each other. Eli is a college professor and is stunned when Bex turns up as one of his students in his new class. He never realized how young she was and would never have got involved with her if he had known, that and the fact she is one of his students and works at his sisters' coffee shop means Bex should definitely be off limits. However, he cannot resist her and she in turn can't understand why they cannot be together. Family trauma ensues when Bex takes Eli to meet her parents making a future for the couple uncertain.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
115 reviews3 followers
March 26, 2024
This last book in the Baker Siblings series was the one you've been waiting for! I was so excited to fall in love with Elijah! He was the one who was always there for everyone, the one the sisters could count on, the one who gave up everything to be there for his sisters. Now will he take the chance to do something for himself, to follow his own heart for a change, no matter the circumstances when and where he finds true love? This series finale was so much more than just Elijah's story. This brought the whole family full circle to show us where all of their lives lead, and of course it's pure happiness ❤️ Such a great feel-good romance series!
Profile Image for Larks Books.
284 reviews1 follower
April 2, 2024
I’d Sit In On His Lecture

YES!!!! Loved this book…
My review is it’s excellent if that’s not enough for then I’ll give you more reasons why. First off this is an age gap, taboo, small town romance with found family. What makes up the taboo part? Well he’s a professor and she’s his student. Unlike many other professor/student tropes this one holds back on the typical angst you find with this subject. Thank goodness. The author gives us her take on the trope and it’s not a carbon copy of other books in this trope.

The FMC is not irritating or juvenile. The MC isn’t unbearable broody, he’s just enough. The steam in this is fan worthy and the story doesn’t drag. The characters deal with mental health issues whether personally or within the family. I love the representation of this.

Elijah is the final book in the Baker Siblings and it finishes with bang. I will miss these characters but Shayna does a good job with the send off. Maybe we will all see them again, hope so. Since this is interconnected, if don’t want any spoilers start with book one.
Profile Image for Gemma Kitchen.
545 reviews9 followers
April 1, 2024
Book 5 in the Baker siblings and this book did not disappoint. Shayna Astor yet again has brought us another fantastic story of Elijah and Bex the woman who captures his heart and soul.

You knew Elijah’s story wasnt going to be straight forward but Shayna did not let us don on this one. A mystery woman who turns out to be his new student. Can he get over the whole student teacher taboo, can he finally take a step back and have time for him and put himself first. Can he open his heart for his hea.

I cant believe this is the end, the baker sibling’s have all been amazing and what a story to end on.
Profile Image for Ashley Hungerford.
21 reviews
April 2, 2024
At the wedding of his sister, Elijah meets Bex and they share an amazing night together. Despite thinking they will never see each other again, they think of the other often. When Bex shows up in Elijah’s life in an unexpected way, their relationship faces hurdles in their forbidden romance.

The final book of the Baker siblings was a great read. The plot was great, the character development for Eli continues from the first three books and you feel like you are a part of their family. A great read if you like spice, age gap, forbidden romance, and overall romance books in general.

What a great way to end the Baker siblings books!
Profile Image for Linda.
729 reviews37 followers
April 5, 2024
I’m so sad this series is over but I’m so glad I had the privilege to read it. The Baker family is a tight knit family with quirks, problems and lots of love. Even though I throughly loved this series, this last one Elijah really touched my heart. After taking care of his siblings for years, will his own dreams come true. Well… you’ll have to read this whole series to find out lol. This author writes from the depths of her soul. With every word she expresses so much emotion that captures you. I’ve now her since her first book and have been a super fan ever since. If you like romance, family situations and some spice, these are the books for you. I highly highly recommend them.
Profile Image for Sara Duran.
453 reviews5 followers
February 13, 2026
Elijah & Bex

Finally Elijah gets his HEA, after everything he has given up to keep his family together and happy. The Eli fund, I cried! I love that the sisters already loved Bex before they made it known they were in a relationship, and supported both of them. This is the best family, who despite having something traumatic happened, they pulled together and always made sure they were there, no questions (ok maybe a few). A great ending to a series, but I'm greedy and I want a check in with the families.
Profile Image for Paige.
186 reviews4 followers
April 5, 2024
This book was amazing from start to finish! I love Shayna Astor’s writing, she’s a fantastic author and all of her books have been great! 🥰

I love Elijah & Bex so much, he was definitely in need of his happy ending! This series is amazing, I love getting to know the characters so well, I really feel like I know them!😂

I highly recommend this series, and definitely this book, it was spicy with lots of romance, and I just fell for them both!💗
Profile Image for Johanna.
1,369 reviews38 followers
December 10, 2024
This Was Beautiful ❤️

They met at Mazie and Zach’s wedding and then met AGAIN in a very unusual circumstance.

They have a 14 year age gap that bothers him more than her but they work so well together.

I really enjoyed watching Eli find HIS person. His solace in the storm of life. He was always stoic and stand offish whole still being there for the sisters.

This book made me smile a lot and I don’t want to end but it did so beautifully 🥰
Profile Image for Joy Whiteside.
5,036 reviews120 followers
March 22, 2024
I really enjoyed reading this book. This book moves along at a pace that is perfect for the flow of the story making for an easy and enjoyable read. It moves along at a pace that is perfect for the flow of the story. You will fall in love with these characters and you feel as though you know them. This book needs to be read, no doubt about it.
Profile Image for Kassea.
106 reviews3 followers
March 27, 2024
Shayna has done it again, another 5 stars from me! I loved this book series! Elijah was fast paced, and it flowed wonderfully. Making it easy and enjoyable to read. I think this is my favorite series so far, from Shayna. I am glad that Eli has finally found his self worth. He has always sacrifice his wants for his sisters. I'm glad he is finally doing what makes him happy.
Profile Image for Ashley Griffith.
46 reviews2 followers
March 31, 2024
Eeeeep!!
Y’all I can’t with these baker siblings! I loved Elijah from the moment opened page 1! In true baker sibling fashion, the sole baker bro matches his sisters books with relationship angst, spice, and a heart of gold!
Run, don’t walk to grab this 5 ⭐️ book!
PS: you will love Bex! She’s totally perfect for Eli! … excuse me, I’m gonna go back to being a puddle of mush now 💕🥹
Profile Image for Brittany.
696 reviews9 followers
January 24, 2025
Elijah

OMG my heart broke for Elijah! He had already experienced so much in his sisters book and coming off of that couldn’t have been easy. Especially after their family trauma. I’m so glad he got his HEA though. I need a reunion book though to see how everyone is in the future or a next gen series LOL!
Profile Image for Stephanie Compton.
Author 4 books97 followers
January 6, 2026
I’m so happy to see Eli get his HEA. He gave up everything for his sisters and was able to find happiness for himself. It took a while and his self depreciation dint help things, but Bex was perfect for him not only in making him believe in himself, but giving him the push he needed. I really enjoyed reading about this whole family!
Profile Image for Jamie Vincent.
194 reviews3 followers
February 10, 2026
When you fall for a girl during a "one night stand" to find out that they is more involved in your life than you think. Loved this one too, but Alina was my favorite. It was cool to see into the lives of all of the siblings and how they overcame their trauma and demons. Easy read series that I recommend!
Profile Image for Kira.
1,159 reviews34 followers
March 19, 2024
Olivia will always be my favorite baker, but I am so glad Eli has learned his true worth! Shayna has done it again with this 5 star! I think it has to be my favorite series of hers. The spice is top notch, and I just loved seeing all the sisters Bex is also such a great addition to the family!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews