If We Survive

Inevitable

by Rianne Elizabeth

Kai:
It’s all fun and games until someone gets abducted.
It’s me - I am someone.
Maybe if I’d fluttered my eyelashes a little harder, I’d be straddling a six-foot-two beefcake instead of sitting on a grubby mattress with a chain wrapped around my neck.
Now, I’m not against a bit of bondage, but this certainly isn’t doing it for me.
Trust me to go on the best first date of my life, only to end up in a derelict warehouse.
Note to self: Don’t online date, but if you do, make sure you end the night with a mind-blowing orgasm rather than fighting to survive.

*If We Survive contains adult content and deals with dark themes. Please check my website for a list of content and trigger warnings. These can also be found at the start of the book.

Genres: M M Romance, Dark, Dark Romance, Contemporary, Forced Proximity, Romance, Mental Health

266 pages, Kindle Edition

First published June 20, 2024

About the author

Rianne Elizabeth, originally from the UK, is a digital nomad who spends most of their time pottering around Eastern Europe and South East Asia.
As a pansexual individual, they feel passionate about writing stories about queer characters with haunted pasts and helping them find their HEAs.
Rianne’s day job is teaching English online, but they can usually be found amongst the trees or consuming too many books.

Reviews

[Brooke · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️ 5 stars ⭐️

«He squeezes my knee and then mouths,
‘If we survive,’ making my heart bounce around my chest as I cling to the last scrap of hope we have for a future together.»

Kai and Eden’s first date felt like the start of something amazing. Until Kai gets abducted, and they both have to fight to survive.

If We Survive was a very different take on the abduction trope, and I loved every minute. It was romantic and swoony, but also gripping and thrilling and anxiety-inducing. It achieved an intoxicating combination of sexy romance and suspenseful thriller and I’m obsessed.

// For a small moment, I almost forget where we are and what we’ve been through.
We’re just two people falling. //

The romance was so sweet and lovely. Despite the awful events happening and the horrible situation they were in, Kai and Eden were adorable and so damn in love. Seeing them get past all the trauma and find a happy future together was beautiful and heartwarming.

The spice was also surprisingly amazing. Again, despite the circumstances, these two were crazy for each other and they let it show. The combo of sassy & bratty femme and hulky gentle giant was explosive. Give me more of that, please.

Back to a more serious note, this was a fantastic and different read. The writing style was also very immersive, and I can’t wait to look into more works by Rianne Elizabeth.

“If we survive,” I whisper.
“Honey, no ifs, we survived.”

I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.

• CW and tropes (spoilers): •
- Physical violence
- Homophobia
- Forced drug use
- Murder
- Abduction
- Parental emotional abuse (off page)
- SH and suicidal thoughts
- Trauma recovery
- Anxiety & depression
- PTSD
- Onychotillomania (compulsive nail picking) brief scene
- MC w/ nipple piercings
- Femme MC
- Coming hands-free
- Frotting & rimming
- Vers MCs
- Panties

[Evie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was such an interesting blend of genres. I think people would be quick to call this “dark romance”, but I don’t think that really gives this book enough credit for what it’s trying to do. This is literally a romance book set in a horror story. Although not quite the same vibe, I kept thinking that this book is what happens when someone watches SAW and thinks “you know what would improve this? Queer romance”.

I don’t want to speak too much on specifics, because I think you’ll get more out of this going in blind, but this is one where checking the trigger warnings might be wise if you need them cause it does tackle some pretty heavy themes. Although worth noting, all things considered, this wasn’t very gory.

The romance between Kai and Eden was really very sweet (and very spicy), which is ironic considering the plot of the story, but almost all of the conflict in their relationship is from external forces. Eden was a great character, although I almost wish he got a little more spotlight to explore his backstory. I did sometimes find Kai’s “I’m the kind of guy to laugh at a funeral” humor a little much and a bit cringy at times but it wasn’t enough to turn me off the book.

Considering this is a debut, I thought it was a very strong effort and the writing skill was definitely there. There were a few places in the book where I found it lagged a little and I kept having a sense where I was waiting for the other shoe to drop, I’m not sure if this indicates a slight pacing issue? But again not enough to impact the reading experience too drastically. It’s worth mentioning that the title indicates that this is “book 1” of a series but this story is self contained and there is no cliff hanger. I’m not sure how a book 2 would be incorporated into this book universe but I’ll be curious to explore it when it’s released cause this new author has a lot of potential.

Thank you to the author for allowing me this opportunity to read and review an ARC of this unique and interesting book.

[Kati *☆･ﾟ · Rating 2 out of 5]

I’ve once read a book with a similar premise and that one made me feel. The horrors of their situation in captivity and their suffering and toxic co-dependency in the aftermath.

This one made me feel nothing. I could not connect at all. Actually, this whole thing just felt silly to me, as if this was not to take seriously, despite the dire situation the MCs found themselves in.

[BookSafety Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book safety, content warnings, and tropes down below.

A single teardrop cascades down his rugged face as he speaks, “In this life and even in the next, I’d always come after you, Kai.”

This was a really decent debut and a solid concept that felt fairly original, at least not a book I felt like I’d read ten times before. Both characters were good, although I had a soft spot for Eden. He’s a sensitive, hairy beefcake of a man. What’s not to love. Anyway, these guys had amazing chemistry early on during their first date. Unfortunately that chemistry sort of fizzled out a bit eventually, and the plot started to feel repetitive. Sure, there’s only so much variety you can get when the characters are literally stuck somewhere, but it felt like they had the same thoughts and conversations over and over.

Don’t get me wrong, it was still good and I’m looking forward to seeing more from this author. They clearly have talent and I imagine it will only get better.

It was nice to see a bit more realism when it comes to reacting to and dealing with trauma. They don’t immediately bounce back. They struggle, and they need professional help.

To me this was pretty low angst and surprisingly lighthearted, which I suppose might’ve been the author’s goal, or I’m just dead inside. Likely the latter. I suppose I wanted it to hurt more.

3.8 stars.

⬇️ Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️

⚠️ Tropes & tags ⚠️
Abduction
Survival
British setting
Hurt/comfort
Mental illness rep
Forced proximity
Opposites attract
Sensitive beefcake
Possessive and protective
Nipple piercings
Lingerie, skirts and makeup
Therapy

⚠️ Content warning ⚠️
Explicit sexual content
Bigoted and homophobic comments (not from MCs)
MC drugged and abducted
Graphic violence
MCs treated in a degrading and dehumanizing manner by abductors
Trauma bonding
Gun violence
Side character shot and killed on page
Alcohol consumption (to handle emotional conversation)
Vomiting
Details of past emotional and verbal abuse by parent
Details of homophobic family (including being kicked out of home)
Penetration without lube
Drug trafficking
Suicidal ideation
MC stabbed
Hospitalization and medical treatment
Mentions of past incarceration in juvenile facility
Self harm (squeezing rocks to point of bleeding
Picking/biting nails and skin)
MC detained by police (off page, present time)
Suicidal thoughts (detailed, on page)
PTSD symptoms (nightmares, flashbacks)
Brief mention of MC medicated for depression (off page)

⚠️Book safety ⚠️
Cheating: No
Other person drama: No
Breakup: No
POV: 1st person, dual (mostly from one MC)
Genre: Contemporary romance
Pairing: M/M
Strict roles or versatile: Versatile
Main characters’ age: 26 and 30
Series: Interconnected standalone
Kindle Unlimited: Yes
Pages: 266
Happy ending: Yes


Judging by his pictures, he’s a big guy. He has the body of a bear but a fucking stunning face. The mere thought of owning this beast of a man’s hole and hearing him weep my name gives me a hard-on.



You can find most of my reviews on Instagram as well: https://www.instagram.com/booksafety?...

[Em’sBookNook · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a Beta copy of If We Survive, and this is my honest review.

Although this book tackles some darker themes, it's perfectly balanced with humour. Told in first person POV from the perspective of Kai, his bold and funny character is clear from page 1. I lost count of how many times I laughed out loud.

There are moments in this book where your heart is in your throat, but there are also plenty of really tender and beautiful ones, which I have to admit are my favourite. Soft moments between Kai and Eden are my weakness.

I don't want to give too much away because I do think this book is best enjoyed by going in blind, but I can promise you won't be bored for a single moment. I don't think I've ever read anything like it, which is a rarity when you read as much romance as I do.

Kai's story is heartfelt, a little stressful at times and always funny; I highly recommend it.

[Elizabeth · Rating 4 out of 5]

If We Survive is the story of Kai's abduction right after he goes on an incredible first date with Eden, whom he meets on a dating app. I really want to avoid spoilers so I don't want to say too much else about the plot other than it covers kidnapping and features some violence so check the content warnings to see if this book is for you. There's also hurt/comfort and Kai's sassy/sarcastic British humour, which I loved.

The best part of the book was the characters for me, although this book is also pretty plot driven. The characters were likeable (most of them anyway) and their fears/motivations/actions felt realistic. Although the first half dragged at times for me, I thought the book was well written. I really liked the author's choice to switch things up in the second half (or so) which kept things interesting. The if we survive bucket list was a really nice touch! If anyone reads a lot of dark romance like me and has read the blurb thinking this is a kidnapper/kidnappee romance, it definitely is not. I was quite confused and then disappointed (not in the book itself, just because I am more a reader of the type of dark romance where it ends up all hot and spicy and Stockholm syndromey) when I realized I had completely misunderstood. With that said, I am probably not the usual reader of this type of book and I still enjoyed it.

Rating: 3.5
Angst: 4/5
Steam: 3/5

I received an advance copy of this book and this is my honest review.

[bookedwith_sam · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

What a great debut novel! As soon as I read the first page I was instantly hooked. The book is technically dual POV but you only get 2 or 3 chapters from Eden’s POV. Normally this would bother me but Kai had such an amazing personality that I loved reading his POV. He is such a little firecracker and makes jokes at the most inappropriate times. I loved it lol

The book is about Kai & Eden who have just met and gone on their first date. Once the date is over Eden drops Kai off at his home and ends up witnessing Kai being abducted. He ends following the car to try and save Kai but ends up getting caught and taken.

Now, i’m not normally an instalove kind of girly but it makes sense in this situation. The two of them are thrown together in a small room with 2 other people while they anxiously wait to find out what’s planned for them. Kai & Eden are each other’s anchors while being held captive and they form a strong bond.

I loved that the two of them took their mental health seriously once they made it out alive and understood that they needed some space from each other to try and deal with all of their trauma. I think Kai & Eden have soulmate kind of love and I’m glad everything worked out in the end for them.

Overall, I really enjoyed this book and the characters. I can’t can’t wait to see what’s next from this author 🫶🏻

{I recieved an ARC and this is my honest review}

[Christine · Rating 1 out of 5]

15% DNF. honestly kind of lost interest by the time the plot started at 15%. Both my buddy reader Sully and I tapped out by 25%.

It felt awkward to have 1 chapter of Eden’s POV out of the first 5 (chapter 4) and to have it labeled “Eden,” but to then not label chapter 5 as “Kai.”
It shouldn’t take reading a page of chapter 5 to find a character name so I can determine who is the POV for the chapter. Honestly, this seems like something that should’ve been caught by a reader or editor at some point in the process.
I get some errors in a self-published debut but this is a genuinely confusing decision for a first person narrative with POV switches. Especially since chapter 1 had an error of Kai referring to himself in the 3rd person, I wasn’t even 100% convinced chapter 5 was Kai’s POV when Eden was referenced in the third person; could’ve been another error.
Typically I wouldn’t rate something I didn’t get farther in but this really bothered me on top of the other issues I had with the book.

It seems like chapter 1 could’ve been skipped entirely in favor of starting the plot and/or meet cute sooner.
Chapter 4 felt pretty redundant as well; I checked and there are no POV to Eden within the first 10 chapters at least and they are stuck together, so having Eden watch the kidnapping and then get kidnapped himself only to have us jump to Kai waking groggy and confused and not returning to Eden’s POV was odd and clumsy.
All we get from chapter 4 is that Eden does in fact find Kai hot as was incredibly clear in chapter 3, and that Eden was kidnapped which becomes clear sooner after when he’s also chained up with Kai. So zero new information.

The readability issue of switching POV without clear labeling in a first person narrative was the nail in the coffin after finding it mildly interesting, after being bothered by excessive telling and multiple errors within the first 7%

Why summarize most of their first date and character development and only show a bit of flirting if we are supposed to get to know and like the characters enough to get invested in time for their future peril?

The couple errors.
Page 8: “My friends from back home are only interested in fun, party Kai and I don’t know anyone in London except a few acquaintances I’ve met at temp jobs.”
(It’s Kai’s perspective so he’s referring to himself as two separate people in the third and first person. I searched to see if “Party Kai” is some third person nickname or alter ego and the phrase never occurs again)

Page 20: “resisting the urge to sink my fingers into his pecks.” (Should be pecs)

Of the telling/summary of the first date this was the most egregious thing to not show on-page: “Eden gives as good as he gets and doesn’t hesitate to put me in my place when I give him sass. I love that dynamic with friends and I’d want the same in a partner. I can’t stand constantly being up people’s arses. I want to be challenged and Eden definitely does that.”

We only see Eden drooling and blushing over how hot Kai is, pretty much. The only dialogue is about wanting to know what kind of underwear Kai has and saying he loves his eyes. Not exactly some memorable love interest I care about. The telling describes a completely different character than we see on page.

[timtam (semi-slump) · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars ✨

[Natalie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kai & Eden
Rating: 4.0 ⭐

- Abduction
- Forced Proximity
- Hurt/Comfort
- Mental Health Themes
- Opposites Attract
- Gender Nonconforming MC
- Dark Humor
- Size Difference
- Lacey Things

I wouldn't have known that this was a debut book if no one told me. The author did a great job on their first big story out of the gate. I liked that this story was different with both MC's getting abducted, versus the captive falling in love with the captor kind of story. Here we have the original target being abducted and the other MC witnesses it and follows in pursuit, hoping to save his date from peril. Good stuff really. I do wish that the suspense and action lasted longer or had a little more gusto, especially around the couple escaping, but it was still good overall.

Kai is sassy and unapologetically himself, and I was there for it. He was a brat with a dark sense of humor, yet deep down was a romantic to his core and he craved the attention he never received. Becoming who is today, freely, was a journey after being thrown out for being gay. Eden is a sweetheart and a teddy bear. He owns his own IT security company and has a great relationship with his family, especially his sister and her family. They have been chatting on a dating app where they formed a connection that neither has found before. They're both excited and nervous about meeting each other for their first in person date. They hit it off immediately, talking for hours and their chemistry burning holes in their seats.

When Eden ends the night before they get too heated, they're both hopeful that they will continue to see each other and soon. As Eden is getting ready to leave the parking lot, he sees Kai getting abducted from his apartment building. Eden is rightfully frazzled but he can't just let them take Kai and/or hurt him, so he follows in pursuit hoping to get help along the way. Well, what can go wrong, does go wrong and while trying to help, Eden gets himself kidnapped as well. Now the couple is chained to a wall in a crummy room with two women that were also taken. No one in the room knows why they were taken, just that they were all taken within days of each other. Now begins their journey for survival.

During their captivity, it was intense for them and their emotions. There are some violent scenes during their captivity, so please make sure to read the content warnings before starting this book. Both characters go through their own mental and physical struggles while there and after they escape. Despite the dangers they faced, the relationship evolved and grew stronger with each passing day. They did have a special connection even before being taken, so it just grew stronger as they helped each other stay as safe and sane as possible. At first, Kai kept up his banter and bratty behavior which brought some levity to their situation. When the seriousness of it all hit him like a freight train, his light dimmed and it was hard to watch him curl in on himself. I will admit that it was a little strange to read about them being horny in their situation but at the same time I get it because it could be their last day at any time, so they took what they could.

A single teardrop cascades down his rugged face as he speaks, “In this life and even in the next, I’d always come after you, Kai.”

I appreciated that the author had both characters go through trauma treatment after coming home. They also didn't jump into a full-on relationship afterwards, deciding to work on themselves first before coming together fully. They stayed in touch, with full separation being too hard to bear, but they put in the work. The couple also continued the work once they did start dating all over again. Kai's best friend and ride or die was a great addition to this story, being a massive support system for him when he comes home. Eden's sister was an absolute a rock when they need her the most and she took Kai in as family immediately.

When Eden came after me that day, he set forever in motion. He went after me because he knew in his gut what we were meant to be. I hate to imagine what would have happened if he hadn’t followed that car.

Content Warnings : Graphic sexual content between consenting adults; Descriptions of graphic violence and murder; Homophobia; Forced drug use; Drug trafficking; Descriptions of being trapped in a confined space; Mentions of past childhood neglect and abuse; Instances of degrading lewd language; Humiliation/ degradation (non- sexual); Sex involving deception (off-page not involving either MC); Self- harm and suicidal thoughts; Trauma recovery; Descriptions of struggling with anxiety, depression, and PTSD; Onychotillomania

I received a free copy of this book via the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.

Verse: Yes
HEA: Yes
POV: Dual
Breakup: No
Cheating: No
Ages: 26 & 30

[Ellie ♡ · Rating 5 out of 5]

☆ Abduction
☆ Opposites attract
☆ Hurt/Comfort
☆ Forced proximity
☆ Brat
☆ Size difference

Wow! Is this really Rianne Elizabeth’s debut novel? Because it was quite a ride and I enjoyed it very much. I loved the characters, the writing style, the plot, the intense storytelling, the emotions I felt, everything!

Kai is my favorite kind of character. His cheeky and mischievous personality instantly won me over. He’s such a little brat and a menace, I loved him instantly. He’s sassy, feisty, with a dark sense of humor, yet deep down he's a hopeless romantic who craves attention. And then there's Eden, with his gentle and caring nature that complements Kai perfectly. He's a gentle soul and a big softie and I adore him. He’s the ultimate book boyfriend; we all need an Eden in our life.

This book is definitely not for everyone due to its darker themes and violent scenes, so I recommend checking the trigger warnings beforehand.

It was such a rollercoaster of emotions, I was on the edge of my seat many times. Eden was scared for Kai, Kai was scared for Eden, I was scared for both of them. Uuuh I couldn’t relax one bit! Despite the dangers they faced, Kai's unwavering spirit and humor brought moments of lightness. He made me laugh because he kept being his bratty self and he was just happy to be with his Eden (and horny, the little minx). However, as soon as he realized the seriousness of their situation, he changed his behavior. It was heartbreaking to see the light in him disappear, he didn’t deserve that.

I really enjoyed how Kai and Eden’s relationship evolved and grew stronger with each passing day, their connection is truly special. It makes so much sense that given the circumstances they were in, their feelings would develop with such intensity. The story is really focused on them and their feelings and I appreciated it very much. The portrayal of their journey back to a semblance of normalcy was very well depicted as well. It was poignant and realistic. Their traumas were kind of managing their life, but I supported all their decisions until the end, knowing they were doing what was best for them.

Kai and Eden have earned a spot on my list of favorite fictional couples of all time. They’re amazing together, they have fun, their bond is unbreakable, their chemistry undeniable and their tender moments were adorable.

If We Survive is a remarkable debut novel and I cannot wait to read more from Rianne Elizabeth. Book 2 cannot come soon enough!


[ɪ ʀᴇᴄᴇɪᴠᴇᴅ ᴀɴ ᴀʀᴄ ᴀɴᴅ ᴛʜɪꜱ ɪꜱ ᴍʏ ʜᴏɴᴇꜱᴛ ʀᴇᴠɪᴇᴡ]

[m · Rating 2 out of 5]

Tbh I found it kind of boring (I’m so sorry 💔).

Basically it follows two guys who after their first date end up being kidnapped by human traffickers to move drugs.

It’s very slice-of-life-y which I found odd for the subject matter and despite the traffickers being clearly bad men, I never felt much danger. They’re not treated well but they’re also not physically harmed or anything as long as they behave. The only characters that are physically hurt are ones that go against their captors in some way. I didn’t really feel much of a connection between the two MC’s before they started hooking up either. A lot of this book just lacked impact for me.

I did appreciate getting to see life for Kai and Eden afterwards - esp how they handled their developing relationship after trauma bonding. Yay for therapy and giving each other space and honest communication! But the whole second half felt a bit like an extended epilogue and by the time it actually ended I had lost most of my interest.

**ARC Review - this is my honest opinion.

[Ellie]

DNF at 30%

I can't take this book seriously, rom-com style writing in life-or-death situations is not for me, and IMO cheapens the whole experience.

They go on a first date, Eden drops Kai off home like a gentleman, witnesses him get abducted and follows him. Of course, his phone is out of battery so he can't notify anyone. He gets caught - of course. They make nice, and cuddle and shit (?). Kai flirts with one of the nicer captors and convinces him to bring him toiletries, Eden is jealous. I give up.

[♥ Rebecca ♥]

I don’t remember who recommended this book to me or how I can’t across it. But it has great reviews. This is an abduction romance, but not a love-my-captor romance.

It starts off feeling like a regular contemporary romance with a lighter tone and sexy banter. Kai and Eden meet online and go on their first date and hit it off. Kai is a vers twink who shows up to their date in a kilt and mesh top that shows off his nipple piercings and drives Eden wild! Eden is a vers bear who shows up in flannel but is just a marshmallow! Eden liked Kai so much that he turned down an offer to go home with him, because he wanted it to be more than a hookup.

So he drives Kai home instead and waits outside his building in his car to make sure Kai gets into his apartment ok. But he doesn’t. Instead Eden sees as Kai is dragged out of his building by two guys and shoved into the back of a van. Eden’s phone is dead so he can’t call the police, so he follows the van to a warehouse. When he sneaks up and tries to look in the window he is caught and chained up along side Kai.

I knew this was coming because I read the blurb and a lot of reviews. But I didn’t mesh with the tone. When you read a dark romance there’s usually a darker tone from the beginning. And usually one of the pair, if not both, is a darker character, instead of two sweeties. I just couldn’t get into it. It felt so wrong to watch these two guys who were about to start a great relationship, be abducted and abused instead.

So I skipped to the end to see their HEA but couldn’t read the rest of the book.

[Bookish Meag 🩵 · Rating 5 out of 5]

I knew from the moment I started seeing If We Survive by Rianne Elizabeth, I wanted to read it. I quickly signed up for the ARC and it has to be one of my best decisions.

This book will pull on your heartstrings, have the tears flowing and then the humor will have you laughing out loud. This was such a roller coaster of emotions. Rianne gave this book true balance with the dark theme and the snark and banter. This was MASTERFUL. Rianne your writing style, and the way the story flowed, spoke of your true potential and your unmatched talent. My mind is blown that this is your debut novel. 🤯 I hope you are more than proud of your first book.

I am beyond excited for what you write next, I already know it’s going to be amazing.

I’m so in love with Kai and Eden; I wish I could read them for the first time again. I can’t believe it myself, but I’m not giving any spoilers for this one. 😱🤣
You’ll have to go fall in love with them yourself. :)

Please make sure you read the trigger warnings before diving into this suspenseful, had me on the edge of my seat, romantic novel.

Thank you so much for the opportunity to ARC read for you. This is my honest opinion.

[Cindy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kai meets Eden through an app and both are really attracted. At the end of their date, both are kidnapped and it becomes terrifying. I love sweet, huge Eden and feisty, femme Kai together, never speculating something so dramatic could happen. I was scared for them reading this and my heart hurt. It was so intense for me but so absorbing and addicting. This book stays with you. I loved it and have found another favorite author. I received a copy of this book through Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest opinion.

[Alfonsina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well, this was such a really great surprise!!
I am a total fan, very much in loved with this story and what can I say about both MCS,
Kai I love you, i felt all of your feelings!!
Eden what a big supportive teddy bear you were.
Even though its dual POV you will find Eden pov twice or three times in this book, but they were so powerful!!
And the Plot!!! I dare you to share me a similar book, this story is so new, so original and speaks about surving, running from death and dealing with PTSD.
PLEASE READ THIS BOOK!!

[tay🖤 · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book has a similar plot to Still Beating by Jennifer Hartmann, but still has significant differences! It is less dark and more of a sappier love story than I personally prefer. The meat of the story for me could’ve been wrapped up around 70%. If you like a prettily wrapped up HEA following a tragedy though, this one is for you.

[Rod Lujano · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kai is an unhinged little monster, that’s it.
I’m really fond of insta love/insta lust stories and Eden and Kai were so precious on their first date, you could feel the chemistry between them, and It was so cool to have some fem boy representation.
It all hit the fan after Kai gets kidnapped and Eden follows him and eventually gets captured too.
Let me just say that what Eden did was foolish but understandable, I don’t think I could think straight if I witnessed something like that, so i get it Eden you beautiful dumb person.
Kai had some questionable choices talking back at their captors but after reading the entire book I got it, he was in shock, and he used the only mechanism he knows to gain some control. It took a gruesome situation for him to understand that they were really trapped, and this really was a dangerous situation.

I really enjoyed this book; it was fun, and it was a set up i hadn’t read before.
An amazing debut.

[Katrina · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was provided an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review

This book is the debut book from Rianne Elizabeth and boy did it deliver! Kai and Eden are wonderful characters and the banter between them is hilariously delightful. Even though they go through the hell together, watching their relationship bloom and grow is a real treat. The way the characters deal with the aftermath of their capture is also nice to read - I liked the inclusion of mental health rep and help and the rational decisions the characters took. I enjoyed this book, and devoured it in one sitting, I just couldn’t put it down.

I found the writing crisp and clear. I liked the way things were described and how her use of language moved the story along quickly. There were no areas in which I felt like the story was dragging.

It is dark and deals with a lot of heavy topics so make sure to check all trigger warnings and if you don’t enjoy dark romance maybe give this one a pass.

Overall this was a wonderful book and I can’t wait for the next book from Rianne Elizabeth!

[Hannah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Heartwarming, terrifying and hilarious! My top read of the year.

I didn’t expect it to be so full of raw emotion AND make me laugh out loud. The perfect book to just allow yourself to feel all the emotions. Dark subjects intertwine the story but they are beautifully balanced with love and humour, written with realistic pacing. So many beautiful moments that allow you to connect with all of the characters, I felt truly invested and immersed in the story throughout.

I wish I could read it again for the first time!

[Lily · Rating 5 out of 5]

“In this life and even in the next, I’d always come after you, Kai.”

I need to scream about the fact this is a debut novel, because holy moly it was SO good. If We Survive is dark on the surface, but at its core, it’s a heartwarming story about appreciating the life you have. It’s about survival, both literally and figuratively, because our MCs endure the worst of what can happen to an individual, but they also overcome their trauma and experience the best kind of survival - moving on and making the most of what’s next.

It’s not a traditional romance by any means… how can it be when after a first date the basis of Kai and Eden’s relationship is built in captivity and based on survival instinct. And yet, these two still manage to create something wonderful, a solid support system even when they see the worst of each other both during and after their ordeal.

If We Survive can be split into two parts - during captivity, and after captivity. But their journey of survival remains the same. In the first part they are literally surviving trauma at the hands of their abductors, making do until they can escape back to their normal lives. In the second part, it’s about surviving the battle with themselves, their minds, their emotions after such a traumatic ordeal. This book shows us that survival isn’t just in the physical sense, but also in the mental prison we build to keep us safe after such events.

Despite the book having such a dark premise, the author did such a good job at bringing a sense of light to the characters and their situation. I’ll admit there were times I forgot they were in such a situation because of how much I laughed at Kai’s words and Eden’s affections - until the next bad thing happened and I was reminded, just like the characters were, that there was something terrible to overcome.

I cannot rate this book highly enough, and again, how is this a debut, because Rianne Elizabeth did such a fantastic job. I’m so excited to read more from them.

*received an ARC from GRR in exchange for an honest review.

[Gabs (gaybism) · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a lovely debut!💞

Kai and Eden go on their first date and are immediately interested in pursuing more. When Eden drops Kai off home he lingers outside and witnesses men kidnapping Kai. He decides to follow them so he can help, but things take a turn when he is captured too!

This book had a really interesting plot. I suppose it is a dark romance with the themes included but Kai’s sarcastic streak and humour, balance it all out in a such a way that it wasn’t so disturbing.

Insta love is not normally my jam but considering their circumstances it made sense. They quickly form a very intense connection because of the situation they are in!

Kai was such a feisty character and despite everything he went through he somehow managed not to lose his spark.

Eden was a big man with an even bigger heart. He was an emotional bear that must be protected at all costs. His softness and care towards Kai were everything! He was also a great communicator! Where can I get an Eden?

Now, am I even Bulgarian if I don’t gush about how happy I am that a book has a Bulgarian character? I loved Emilya. I loved reading in my own language. I LOVED that Kai and Eden visited Bulgaria. It’s small things like that, that make me proud of where I’m from!

Another thing I want to gush about? The mental health rep AND them both going to therapy! I’m so glad it wasn’t a book where love fixes all. They both had to fight so they can get better and be the best versions of themselves for each other after their time in captivity.

Overall, this was a slightly morbid read, made not so morbid by involving copious amounts of good old British humour and a few cups of tea! Oh? And they survived!

[Miss S. · Rating 5 out of 5]

He’s so fucking beautiful, even at his worst. Even after this devastating turn of events, he makes something inside of me burn bright.

❥ MM Romance
❥ Abduction
❥ Forced Proximity
❥ Hurt/Comfort
❥ Size Difference
❥ Mental Health REP
❥ Dark Humor

If We Survive had me switching between chuckling, crying and swooning throughout the whole book. I didn’t think it would have such a huge effect on me, since it’s a bit on the shorter side (<300), but well, here we are.

I can’t say too much about the plot, since it’s easily spoiled, so I’m just going to swoon about Kai and Eden for a bit.

Kai had me laughing several times, but his story is also the one that broke me the most. Not just during his abduction, but his past as well. Everything after was a bit heartbreaking as well.

And Eden… we have to leave him a bit mysterious, but let me just tell you that I would have fallen for his kind of crazy as well. He will do absolutely ANYTHING for Kai, he’s a tiny bit possessive, he’s not afraid to cry and he always knows just the right thing to say.

Despite being in captivity and such, the book still has plenty of spice. What’s a little touching, when the others in the room are sleeping…

The book is pretty dark, and you should read the trigger warnings. I don’t know if I would call it dark romance, because well, it’s more like two people in a really, really bad situation, and horrible things happen to them and around them, and it’s awful, and somehow they find a bit of joy in each other despite everything.

It will pull on your heartstrings and most likely make you cry. But it’s what I love the most about a book really, how it can break your heart and mend it back together, and Rianne Elizabeth did it so effortlessly.

This is called book one in a series, I think? But it’s a complete standalone, no cliffhangers or anything, so if you’re worried about that, don’t be.

We better fucking survive because now that I’ve had a taste, I can’t settle for anything less than a lifetime of this.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.

Read the full review on my blog here.

[Nadia · Rating 5 out of 5]

-MM Dark Romance
-Hurt/Comfort
-Forced Proximity
-Mental Health Rep

Once I started, If We Survive, I couldn't stop. There's a lot to love about this. The friendship and family. Nola, Olivia, and Emiliya. The time during their captivity made me feel all over the place. Especially because even though a certain character was bad, he was also a good person.

Kai was funny. I loved how opposite him and Eden are. While Eden is a soft, big teddy bear, Kai mixes a bit of humor to what life had put him through. It was a bit dark but funny nonetheless, and that made the book interesting.

Eden understands Kai from the beginning. And to Eden, Kai is perfect. Eden could not help and fall in love immediately.

The trauma Kai and Eden went through was devastating, how it affected them together and separately. It broke my heart how their first moments were now tainted with awful memories. The time passed throughout this book flowed perfectly, and by the end, I felt like my heart also recovered with Kai and Eden as well.

Overall, it was a great, fantastic, and heartbreaking novel. Highly recommend If We Survive! It is not a book for every reader because of topics that may be sensitive to some readers, so before you read, I do suggest checking out the TWs.

[Lady Macbeth · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 stars
Very good story, the first part was a little too dark for me, but I loved the second: dealing with the post abduction trauma wasn't easy for both Eden and Kai and I really appreciated how the author handled their mental health.
Kai has such a sunshine personality that I did not expect for him to be hit so hard and to be forced to face a deeper pain; his darkest thoughts broke my heart and I liked very much that the author didn't make a hero out of Eden, but that she made them both work hard to get better.
I also loved that they take a step back on their relationship and started over after their escape: that allowed them to try to heal individually before focusing all their emotions on themselves as a couple.

This was a very good debut, I'm surely going to keep an eye on this author.

[Anny · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars rounded up since this is a debut novel. Liked a lot the writing style. First half of the book was 5 stars, second was boring and repetitive (revolving around trauma and sex). Appreciated the reference to Bulgaria, but the Emilia character does not represent the majority of 21yo who want to study abroad. They know minimum 2 languages at C1 level after high school. Having someone knowing 4 words in English as depicted in the book and travelling through Europe to choose an education destination was laughable.

[Always Forget · Rating 2 out of 5]

DNF and skimmed after 60%.

This started out fairly decent, but I feel like it jumped ship into over the top ridiculous, without the writing skill to make it entertaining. The villains are incompetent and I feel like there's too much missing from how things would go in reality to make it plausible. Too much was just shoehorned together because the author wants things to work out that way, rather than researching how things would actually work.

[Saskia Veldhuis · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars. A particularly interesting and well thought out story, including a whole bunch of really traumatic events and their aftermath. I appreciated the various difficulties the MCs had to suffer through after having managed to get out of captivity, it wouldn't have fit to have a HEA straight away. I look forward to more from this author.

[Jennifer Carter · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book… I want to say darkly cute. Even though this book has darker themes it still has an air or light hearted banter and dark humor. I truly loved read about Kai and Eden. They were beautiful characters that complemented one another.