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Ilya
Two desperate men, one stolen necklace and a daring escape—what could possibly go wrong?
Ilya hadn’t imagined that attending his sister’s wedding would mean being imprisoned in the family home. For the last month, he’s been put through conversion therapy by a ruthless bastard, employed by his father, who’s determined to beat the gay out of him. Ilya plans to make a break for it while the wedding is in full swing. Fate is on his side when he catches a guest stealing his stepmother’s necklace. Ilya blackmails the he’ll hand over the necklace for a ride out of there.
A tragic mistake in Julien’s past led to his life and future disintegrating. Now he can’t break free of the gangster he feels forced to work for. So when the cocky young Russian propositions him at the wedding, he has no choice. He needs that necklace back. His life and that of others depend on it… But Ilya’s presence upsets Julien’s plans at every turn. He can’t afford to make mistakes, but somehow he finds himself saddled with this flirty problem who’s pushing all his buttons. How can he make Ilya understand he’s not gay?
Except the more time they spend together, the more Julien questions a lot of the choices he’s made. Maybe they can keep each other safe. Either that or they'll die trying.
Warning : Homophobia, conversion therapy, violence, guns, injury, death of a sibling
Ilya hadn’t imagined that attending his sister’s wedding would mean being imprisoned in the family home. For the last month, he’s been put through conversion therapy by a ruthless bastard, employed by his father, who’s determined to beat the gay out of him. Ilya plans to make a break for it while the wedding is in full swing. Fate is on his side when he catches a guest stealing his stepmother’s necklace. Ilya blackmails the he’ll hand over the necklace for a ride out of there.
A tragic mistake in Julien’s past led to his life and future disintegrating. Now he can’t break free of the gangster he feels forced to work for. So when the cocky young Russian propositions him at the wedding, he has no choice. He needs that necklace back. His life and that of others depend on it… But Ilya’s presence upsets Julien’s plans at every turn. He can’t afford to make mistakes, but somehow he finds himself saddled with this flirty problem who’s pushing all his buttons. How can he make Ilya understand he’s not gay?
Except the more time they spend together, the more Julien questions a lot of the choices he’s made. Maybe they can keep each other safe. Either that or they'll die trying.
Warning : Homophobia, conversion therapy, violence, guns, injury, death of a sibling
341 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 17, 2024
85 people are currently reading
166 people want to read
About the author
Barbara Elsborg
100 books1,677 followersBarbara Elsborg lives in Kent in the south of England. She always wanted to be a spy, but having confessed to everyone without them even resorting to torture, she decided it was not for her. Volcanology scorched her feet. A morbid fear of sharks put paid to marine biology. So instead, she spent several years successfully selling cyanide.
After dragging up two rotten, ungrateful children and frustrating her sexy, devoted, wonderful husband (who can now stop twisting her arm) she finally has time to conduct an affair with an electrifying plugged-in male, her laptop.
Her books feature quirky heroines and bad boys, and she hopes they are as much fun to read as they are to write.
After dragging up two rotten, ungrateful children and frustrating her sexy, devoted, wonderful husband (who can now stop twisting her arm) she finally has time to conduct an affair with an electrifying plugged-in male, her laptop.
Her books feature quirky heroines and bad boys, and she hopes they are as much fun to read as they are to write.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
October 23, 2024
✰ 3.5 stars ✰
“I’m just discovering something that was already inside me. And I’m wondering how it took me so long.”
“That’s easy. You were waiting for me.”
It is no secret that I am a simp for Barbara Elsborg's cover models. 🥰 It's also no secret that her style of snark and banter - I just get it. 👌🏻👌🏻 It may always be on that familiar wavelength that endeared to me with Jonty, but her style of mixing suspense with pleasure is something that can be a hit or a miss; but the fact that it is her unique approach to have two unsuspecting souls connect is what I do prepare myself for. I am also glad I did read the short story beforehand featuring Arkady; having a little insight into that storyline helped me appreciate the little moments of recognition that Ilya saw of himself in Arkady that helped him in turn be a bit of a better person. ❤️🩹
Ilya is no exception. And from the start of seeing him helpless at the mercies of a cruel oppressor, it is enough to say that my heart was all in for him to find a way out from that painful torture. And when he sees the opportunity of escape arise in the face of a handsome thief, he seizes the chance any which way. 'In the space of one night, everything had changed.' For twenty-four-year-old Ilya, being gay in Russia was a crime, finding a way just to be himself anywhere else comes with its own risks, but for Julien, he's willing to be brave. 🥺 A thief that ticked almost every box of the men he fancied that he stood no chance of getting, yet Julien was a challenge that he refused to back down from. Desperate - not only for a chance of survival, but desperate to somehow have Julien change his tune for him - to awaken those suppressed emotions he knew existed for him, but was too hesitant and unsure to acknowledge.
“I wanted to tell you… You’re the best thing that’s ever happened to me, so don’t let anything happen to you.”
While Julien's reasons are entirely valid for keeping him at a distance, I did like that it was a sorta slow burn in acceptance - a rarity from the norm... 🥲 Almost like a guarded approach that yes, you do stir up a tingling that danced up his spine he could not explain, but with the life of danger he had to lead, there was no room for a mouthy skinny twink like Ilya to be a part of. How he went from being a little shit to 'Ilya was his errant wave, one that would carry him through life.' 😥 But, his inner temptation, along with his own need to protect and care for him was so overpowering - an innate urge to keep Ilya safe - was enough for him to tip the balance in his favor to have him for himself. His own back story was so tragic and painful, just getting close to him to accept that there was something - would be worth the risk. 🙏🏻🙏🏻
Ilya was a sweetheart; he was honest, affectionate, sincere, and in a way - respectful, but still cheeky in his desires, the friend in Julien's life he did not realize how long he had been lonely and longing for. He is lovable and irresistible right from the first time thirty-four-year-old Julien laid eyes on his floppy hair and big brown eyes. 😊 Affectionately calling him Bratkin, he was kind, gentle, tender, and still hurting, but hoping to heal. His past nurturing self made its presence known in the softest of ways, but still having to harbor the harsher side of himself - just to keep himself sane, if not alive. 🥹 'I want him. He just had to get his head around that' Throwing Ilya into the mix was not part of his deal, but life rarely works out the way either of them have planned, but somehow, Ilya brightens up his world. Giving him a chance to live and have fun and be adventurous and slowly figure out a way for 'a whole new world would open up if he felt brave enough to step into it' and realize their true feelings for each other. 🩵🩵
“I’m not sorry I met you.”
“Is that like saying I’m so glad I met you?”
Elsborg always writes banter like it's second nature; the quips and the chuckles roll off so seamlessly that it feels almost planned, but still so natural. As much as the suspense plot was a menacing one, the way they opened up and were honest about their darkest secrets felt real. The pacing was kept swift, so that the events could unfold faster, because time was of the essence - for the both of them. ❤️🩹❤️🩹 '... The sad mess of Julien’s and the tragic one of Ilya’s. There were no secrets between them.' - both of them were trying their hardest to escape from a life that had a hold on them for more than they would have cared for. Their chance meeting was the first step for them to break free of those restraints. 😟
I think it was my first time reading about a bisexual awakening from B.E, and it was nice. Nice, perhaps too simple a word, but seeing Ilya's patience and reassurance, aided by Julien's own eagerness, but still calm and welcoming, was sweet and endearing. It felt very safe, not so much the intense heated passionate sex I usually find in her works. 🥰 'There was no hesitation, nothing but need,' and this warmth of teasing and acceptance that made them. It was heartwarming to see the two of them get comfortable and chase the pleasures they both were yearning for. ☺️
“I’ve realised that where I am isn’t anywhere near as important as who I’m with.”
I have to admit, though, that the mystery storyline was not as gripping as I would have expected; perhaps, because I knew that somehow things would work out in their favor. And I also did feel that while it was heartwarming to see two broken souls develop this intimate bond of love and trust, I did not feel it on that intense emotional level I would have liked. 🤔 The romantic in me swooned at a couple moments, for sure; but there was something kinda restrained and safe to their relationship - that I felt was different than the usual. Like lacking that bite of sass and chaos I generally find in her stories; maybe it was intentional to fit their personalities, for how they've had to live a restrained life and are only now finding the 'the piece of me that I didn’t realise I was missing.' 🫶🏻🫶🏻
“I’m just discovering something that was already inside me. And I’m wondering how it took me so long.”
“That’s easy. You were waiting for me.”
It is no secret that I am a simp for Barbara Elsborg's cover models. 🥰 It's also no secret that her style of snark and banter - I just get it. 👌🏻👌🏻 It may always be on that familiar wavelength that endeared to me with Jonty, but her style of mixing suspense with pleasure is something that can be a hit or a miss; but the fact that it is her unique approach to have two unsuspecting souls connect is what I do prepare myself for. I am also glad I did read the short story beforehand featuring Arkady; having a little insight into that storyline helped me appreciate the little moments of recognition that Ilya saw of himself in Arkady that helped him in turn be a bit of a better person. ❤️🩹
Ilya is no exception. And from the start of seeing him helpless at the mercies of a cruel oppressor, it is enough to say that my heart was all in for him to find a way out from that painful torture. And when he sees the opportunity of escape arise in the face of a handsome thief, he seizes the chance any which way. 'In the space of one night, everything had changed.' For twenty-four-year-old Ilya, being gay in Russia was a crime, finding a way just to be himself anywhere else comes with its own risks, but for Julien, he's willing to be brave. 🥺 A thief that ticked almost every box of the men he fancied that he stood no chance of getting, yet Julien was a challenge that he refused to back down from. Desperate - not only for a chance of survival, but desperate to somehow have Julien change his tune for him - to awaken those suppressed emotions he knew existed for him, but was too hesitant and unsure to acknowledge.
“I wanted to tell you… You’re the best thing that’s ever happened to me, so don’t let anything happen to you.”
While Julien's reasons are entirely valid for keeping him at a distance, I did like that it was a sorta slow burn in acceptance - a rarity from the norm... 🥲 Almost like a guarded approach that yes, you do stir up a tingling that danced up his spine he could not explain, but with the life of danger he had to lead, there was no room for a mouthy skinny twink like Ilya to be a part of. How he went from being a little shit to 'Ilya was his errant wave, one that would carry him through life.' 😥 But, his inner temptation, along with his own need to protect and care for him was so overpowering - an innate urge to keep Ilya safe - was enough for him to tip the balance in his favor to have him for himself. His own back story was so tragic and painful, just getting close to him to accept that there was something - would be worth the risk. 🙏🏻🙏🏻
Ilya was a sweetheart; he was honest, affectionate, sincere, and in a way - respectful, but still cheeky in his desires, the friend in Julien's life he did not realize how long he had been lonely and longing for. He is lovable and irresistible right from the first time thirty-four-year-old Julien laid eyes on his floppy hair and big brown eyes. 😊 Affectionately calling him Bratkin, he was kind, gentle, tender, and still hurting, but hoping to heal. His past nurturing self made its presence known in the softest of ways, but still having to harbor the harsher side of himself - just to keep himself sane, if not alive. 🥹 'I want him. He just had to get his head around that' Throwing Ilya into the mix was not part of his deal, but life rarely works out the way either of them have planned, but somehow, Ilya brightens up his world. Giving him a chance to live and have fun and be adventurous and slowly figure out a way for 'a whole new world would open up if he felt brave enough to step into it' and realize their true feelings for each other. 🩵🩵
“I’m not sorry I met you.”
“Is that like saying I’m so glad I met you?”
Elsborg always writes banter like it's second nature; the quips and the chuckles roll off so seamlessly that it feels almost planned, but still so natural. As much as the suspense plot was a menacing one, the way they opened up and were honest about their darkest secrets felt real. The pacing was kept swift, so that the events could unfold faster, because time was of the essence - for the both of them. ❤️🩹❤️🩹 '... The sad mess of Julien’s and the tragic one of Ilya’s. There were no secrets between them.' - both of them were trying their hardest to escape from a life that had a hold on them for more than they would have cared for. Their chance meeting was the first step for them to break free of those restraints. 😟
I think it was my first time reading about a bisexual awakening from B.E, and it was nice. Nice, perhaps too simple a word, but seeing Ilya's patience and reassurance, aided by Julien's own eagerness, but still calm and welcoming, was sweet and endearing. It felt very safe, not so much the intense heated passionate sex I usually find in her works. 🥰 'There was no hesitation, nothing but need,' and this warmth of teasing and acceptance that made them. It was heartwarming to see the two of them get comfortable and chase the pleasures they both were yearning for. ☺️
“I’ve realised that where I am isn’t anywhere near as important as who I’m with.”
I have to admit, though, that the mystery storyline was not as gripping as I would have expected; perhaps, because I knew that somehow things would work out in their favor. And I also did feel that while it was heartwarming to see two broken souls develop this intimate bond of love and trust, I did not feel it on that intense emotional level I would have liked. 🤔 The romantic in me swooned at a couple moments, for sure; but there was something kinda restrained and safe to their relationship - that I felt was different than the usual. Like lacking that bite of sass and chaos I generally find in her stories; maybe it was intentional to fit their personalities, for how they've had to live a restrained life and are only now finding the 'the piece of me that I didn’t realise I was missing.' 🫶🏻🫶🏻
August 25, 2025
There were a couple of moments when I thought the banter was too much, but I gotta say, it grew on me. Case in point
I want you inside me. Just do it.” “Thank you to our sponsor, Nike."
It was both ridiculous and sweet.
The story might not be the most original one out there, but it was entertaining. Their meeting was a proper meet-cute if I do say so myself, and even though they both had a lot going on, their relationship growth made sense, and it was cute. Plus, it has a Russian MC named Ilya, so 💁🏻♀️
The story might not be the most original one out there, but it was entertaining. Their meeting was a proper meet-cute if I do say so myself, and even though they both had a lot going on, their relationship growth made sense, and it was cute. Plus, it has a Russian MC named Ilya, so 💁🏻♀️
October 18, 2024
Barbara Elsborg is my all-time favorite author for so many reasons. At the top of the list is how she grabs my heart from the first page and builds and builds and builds that story to the perfect conculsion. Ilya is one wild ride, so prepare to be put through the wringer and back again. But Elsborg's fans know to expect nothing less.
I adored Ilya's tale. This sassy, sweet, loving young is in such a desperate place! The courage and gumption is takes for him to change his situation, combined with his natural charm, will win your heart straight away.
Julien’s in a wild place in his life at the start of Ilya and Barbara Elsborg thoroughly explores this interesting and complex character. Julien has closed himself off from his friends and family, and is at what he hopes is the end of a terrible trial.
Both of these men are approaching the most trying time of their lives, and we're along for the best part! Romance, adventure, mystery, and the most delicious build of tension. Ilya is amazing.
an advanced reader copy of Ilya was provided by the author for the purpose of my honest review, all opinions are my own
I adored Ilya's tale. This sassy, sweet, loving young is in such a desperate place! The courage and gumption is takes for him to change his situation, combined with his natural charm, will win your heart straight away.
Julien’s in a wild place in his life at the start of Ilya and Barbara Elsborg thoroughly explores this interesting and complex character. Julien has closed himself off from his friends and family, and is at what he hopes is the end of a terrible trial.
Both of these men are approaching the most trying time of their lives, and we're along for the best part! Romance, adventure, mystery, and the most delicious build of tension. Ilya is amazing.
an advanced reader copy of Ilya was provided by the author for the purpose of my honest review, all opinions are my own
October 19, 2024
Fomulaic. Jonty-clone + improbable plot + flirty banter = mildly entertaining.
August 5, 2025
I enjoyed this one. It gets a bit laggy just after the mid point, but I liked the characters, the banter is genuinely funny and while the suspense plot isn’t overly complicated, it’s well thought-out and kept me interested.
At eighteen, Ilya Morozov only son of a UK-based Russian oligarch decided he didn’t want to go to Oxford and then into the family business, so he took himself back to Russia where he could follow his real passion and became a teacher at the International Jewellery School in St. Petersburg. Being gay in Russia is dangerous, but he’s always been careful and has a good life there – until five years later, he’s kidnapped and dragged back to England and the family mansion, where he’s put into the tender care of a “life coach” whose real job is to torture the gay away.
Julien Descoteaux was a doctor until a few years earlier when he was falsely accused of murdering his younger brother and his boyfriend and was struck off. As if that wasn’t bad enough, the boyfriend was the son of a powerful Chechen mob boss, who forced Julien to work for him – mostly as a doctor, patching up his wounded men, sometimes as a thief. The deal was that Julien would do whatever he was told for three years; that time is nearly up and Julien is pretty sure he’s not going to be allowed to walk away.
The two meet at Ilya’s younger half-sister’s wedding, where Julien has been sent in order to steal a valuable necklace being worn by the mother of the bride. It’s not an easy ask, but he manages it, and is looking to make a discreet exit when a young man with floppy hair and big brown eyes wearing an ill-fitting suit accosts him and tells him he saw what Julien did. Julien doesn’t want to talk to him – until he realises the other man has lifted the necklace. The younger man says that if Julien will meet him later that night, he’ll give the necklace back in exchange for a lift - or he’ll tell his step-mother what happened. Julien has no alternative but to agree.
What follows is a suspenseful cat-and-mouse story as Julien - knowing his days are likely numbered - tries to keep Ilya and his loved ones safe from the mob, while at the same time trying not to fall head-over-heels for the mouthy Russian twink he rescued.
The author strikes a good balance between the more serious elements of the story (Ilya being kidnapped, held captive and beaten, Julien’s quiet despair at being unwillingly mixed up with the Chechen mafia) with the humour and the romance. Ilya is bright, flirtatious and a total chatterbox and seems, at first, to be a bit of an air-head, but soon shows himself to be clever, brave and loyal. Julien is – unsurprisingly – quieter and more reserved, but can’t help being slowly won-over by Ilya’s warmth and ridiculous charm, even as he tries hard not to show it. He’s also not into men – or so he’s always thought – yet there’s something about Ilya that fascinates him and appeals to him in a way he’d never expected. Their banter sparkles and their chemistry zings, and I loved the way Ilya’s silly ramblings could make Julien smile, no matter how bad things were looking. The bi-awakening part of the story is nicely done and I liked that Julien doesn’t have some big freak-out about his sexuality. He thinks he’s probably bisexual but isn’t bothered about labels, he just fancies Ilya and feels like something has finally slotted into place because of it. I have to say, however, that the pacing starts to flag a bit in the second half once Ilya and Julian start having sex. It’s hot and well-written, but after the first couple of sex scenes I started skimming because I wanted to get to the next bit of plot! I also had an issue with Ilya being so pushy after Julien told him repeatedly that he was straight. Okay, so it turned out that Julien was wrong and in denial, but Ilya still stepped over a line by pursuing him so aggressively, which I found uncomfortable.
I’d have liked a bit more of a comeuppance for Ilya’s dad – who turns out to be more clueless than vindictive, but still – and stepmother, but otherwise, I enjoyed Ilya a great deal. It’s funny, suspenseful and entertaining, the characters are easy to like and root for and the romance is charming. Recommended.
At eighteen, Ilya Morozov only son of a UK-based Russian oligarch decided he didn’t want to go to Oxford and then into the family business, so he took himself back to Russia where he could follow his real passion and became a teacher at the International Jewellery School in St. Petersburg. Being gay in Russia is dangerous, but he’s always been careful and has a good life there – until five years later, he’s kidnapped and dragged back to England and the family mansion, where he’s put into the tender care of a “life coach” whose real job is to torture the gay away.
Julien Descoteaux was a doctor until a few years earlier when he was falsely accused of murdering his younger brother and his boyfriend and was struck off. As if that wasn’t bad enough, the boyfriend was the son of a powerful Chechen mob boss, who forced Julien to work for him – mostly as a doctor, patching up his wounded men, sometimes as a thief. The deal was that Julien would do whatever he was told for three years; that time is nearly up and Julien is pretty sure he’s not going to be allowed to walk away.
The two meet at Ilya’s younger half-sister’s wedding, where Julien has been sent in order to steal a valuable necklace being worn by the mother of the bride. It’s not an easy ask, but he manages it, and is looking to make a discreet exit when a young man with floppy hair and big brown eyes wearing an ill-fitting suit accosts him and tells him he saw what Julien did. Julien doesn’t want to talk to him – until he realises the other man has lifted the necklace. The younger man says that if Julien will meet him later that night, he’ll give the necklace back in exchange for a lift - or he’ll tell his step-mother what happened. Julien has no alternative but to agree.
What follows is a suspenseful cat-and-mouse story as Julien - knowing his days are likely numbered - tries to keep Ilya and his loved ones safe from the mob, while at the same time trying not to fall head-over-heels for the mouthy Russian twink he rescued.
The author strikes a good balance between the more serious elements of the story (Ilya being kidnapped, held captive and beaten, Julien’s quiet despair at being unwillingly mixed up with the Chechen mafia) with the humour and the romance. Ilya is bright, flirtatious and a total chatterbox and seems, at first, to be a bit of an air-head, but soon shows himself to be clever, brave and loyal. Julien is – unsurprisingly – quieter and more reserved, but can’t help being slowly won-over by Ilya’s warmth and ridiculous charm, even as he tries hard not to show it. He’s also not into men – or so he’s always thought – yet there’s something about Ilya that fascinates him and appeals to him in a way he’d never expected. Their banter sparkles and their chemistry zings, and I loved the way Ilya’s silly ramblings could make Julien smile, no matter how bad things were looking. The bi-awakening part of the story is nicely done and I liked that Julien doesn’t have some big freak-out about his sexuality. He thinks he’s probably bisexual but isn’t bothered about labels, he just fancies Ilya and feels like something has finally slotted into place because of it. I have to say, however, that the pacing starts to flag a bit in the second half once Ilya and Julian start having sex. It’s hot and well-written, but after the first couple of sex scenes I started skimming because I wanted to get to the next bit of plot! I also had an issue with Ilya being so pushy after Julien told him repeatedly that he was straight. Okay, so it turned out that Julien was wrong and in denial, but Ilya still stepped over a line by pursuing him so aggressively, which I found uncomfortable.
I’d have liked a bit more of a comeuppance for Ilya’s dad – who turns out to be more clueless than vindictive, but still – and stepmother, but otherwise, I enjoyed Ilya a great deal. It’s funny, suspenseful and entertaining, the characters are easy to like and root for and the romance is charming. Recommended.
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September 26, 2024I'm using this facility to tell you that there is free book - if you'd please sign up to get my newsletters!! - available on Bookfunnel. It's called Taken and it's the story of Arkady, one of Ilya's friends. https://dl.bookfunnel.com/9fh7w6umqw
It’s not safe to be gay in Russia and Arkady isn’t as carefully out as he should be. But what crime has he committed to result in him being abducted and locked away in a conversion clinic? Time passes and he despairs of ever being released. When he falls ill and is transferred to a hospital, he sees a chance to escape. But how, when he has no clothes, no money, no phone and no ID?
Gav has orders to rescue Arkady not fall for him. Oops. But there’s just something about the thin, pale guy that tugs at Gav’s heart. Fighting his attraction is a battle he loses. But he can’t leave Russia and Arkady has to. What future could they possibly have?
It’s not safe to be gay in Russia and Arkady isn’t as carefully out as he should be. But what crime has he committed to result in him being abducted and locked away in a conversion clinic? Time passes and he despairs of ever being released. When he falls ill and is transferred to a hospital, he sees a chance to escape. But how, when he has no clothes, no money, no phone and no ID?
Gav has orders to rescue Arkady not fall for him. Oops. But there’s just something about the thin, pale guy that tugs at Gav’s heart. Fighting his attraction is a battle he loses. But he can’t leave Russia and Arkady has to. What future could they possibly have?
November 2, 2024
3.75 stars
It was fun getting to know these two characters so different from each other. I was a little uncomfortable with how aggressively Ilya pursued Julien in the beginning after being repeatedly told that he was straight, but since they ended up together in the end, I assume we were supposed to find it charming instead.
It was fun getting to know these two characters so different from each other. I was a little uncomfortable with how aggressively Ilya pursued Julien in the beginning after being repeatedly told that he was straight, but since they ended up together in the end, I assume we were supposed to find it charming instead.
October 22, 2024
I wanted to like this more than I did but a few things bothered me:
1 - The initial abuse by Brand felt so gratuitous. I don't think there was any need for the detail given and it made me feel more meh than sorry for Ilya.
2 - Ilya's flirting towards Julien was over the top
3 - I kept comparing him to Jonty (so this one is probably on me). I think any character with the banter, flirting and similar mannerisms to Jonty, just won't compare.
4 - Julien. Hmm, not much to say about him, he was nothing out of the ordinary. But then again, any character paired up with someone like Ilya will always lose out.
I still liked it a lot but I think in my mind I was expecting something more like Fen which I loved and never compared to Jonty.
Overall, it's a very good read. I just think that for me, it did not hit the right spots.
1 - The initial abuse by Brand felt so gratuitous. I don't think there was any need for the detail given and it made me feel more meh than sorry for Ilya.
2 - Ilya's flirting towards Julien was over the top
3 - I kept comparing him to Jonty (so this one is probably on me). I think any character with the banter, flirting and similar mannerisms to Jonty, just won't compare.
4 - Julien. Hmm, not much to say about him, he was nothing out of the ordinary. But then again, any character paired up with someone like Ilya will always lose out.
I still liked it a lot but I think in my mind I was expecting something more like Fen which I loved and never compared to Jonty.
Overall, it's a very good read. I just think that for me, it did not hit the right spots.
October 19, 2024
“Tais-toi” hmm quite difficult for Ilya.
Julian was kept in the hands of the mafia and has to pay off his debts, Ilya tries to get out of the hands of the Russian mafia, away from his father.
Forced by abusive hands to get straight and do what he’s told, Ilya has to attend a wedding and play the straight guy and hold hands with a girl. If he doesn’t succeed he will face more torture. Torture the gay away.
At the said wedding he sees a guy steal a necklace, he uses this knowledge to force the man to take him with him, away from his father and his torturer.
In short, Julian takes Ilya with him, and both try to keep low and safe. Spoiler: quite difficult!
Ilya is a talker, gosh can he talk, and flirt, gosh, let’s not forget he flirts. Julian discovers he’s not as straight as he thought he was. What happens with them, and what they have been through, you’ll discover while reading. The story is on one hand funny and sweet, and on the other hand are things that made me shudder because it was so harsh!
It was such an entertaining, thrilling, and romantic story. All wonderfully developed and written.
Julian was kept in the hands of the mafia and has to pay off his debts, Ilya tries to get out of the hands of the Russian mafia, away from his father.
Forced by abusive hands to get straight and do what he’s told, Ilya has to attend a wedding and play the straight guy and hold hands with a girl. If he doesn’t succeed he will face more torture. Torture the gay away.
At the said wedding he sees a guy steal a necklace, he uses this knowledge to force the man to take him with him, away from his father and his torturer.
In short, Julian takes Ilya with him, and both try to keep low and safe. Spoiler: quite difficult!
Ilya is a talker, gosh can he talk, and flirt, gosh, let’s not forget he flirts. Julian discovers he’s not as straight as he thought he was. What happens with them, and what they have been through, you’ll discover while reading. The story is on one hand funny and sweet, and on the other hand are things that made me shudder because it was so harsh!
It was such an entertaining, thrilling, and romantic story. All wonderfully developed and written.
September 27, 2024
I’ve probably said it before, but I will say it again and again, I love Barbara Elsborg’s boys.
Ilya and Julien are perfect in every way. Ilya has snark and banter. He’s fearless, so, so brave. He’s a survivor. He’s got the cutest little bum and I think I love him.
Julien, is French. I have a weakness for men who speak French. He gives Ilya a run for his money in snark. He’s fearless, so, so brave. He’s a survivor. He’s got the cutest little bum and I think I love him. They are just so perfect together.
Barbara Elsborg writes the best characters and the best stories. There’s so much going on here. Evil people. Plots to kill. Stealing expensive jewellery. Switching cars and phones. Dogs on beaches. Chips. Chocolate. Galette!
I’m smitten with the bratkin.
“Am I barking up the wrong tree, woofing for no reason, lying on my back with my tongue out when there’s no chance of having my tummy rubbed? Tell me and I’ll shut up. Well, I’ll try to.”
“I think part of me just thought - there you are at last. The piece of me that I didn’t realise was missing.”
Such a great read.
Ilya and Julien are perfect in every way. Ilya has snark and banter. He’s fearless, so, so brave. He’s a survivor. He’s got the cutest little bum and I think I love him.
Julien, is French. I have a weakness for men who speak French. He gives Ilya a run for his money in snark. He’s fearless, so, so brave. He’s a survivor. He’s got the cutest little bum and I think I love him. They are just so perfect together.
Barbara Elsborg writes the best characters and the best stories. There’s so much going on here. Evil people. Plots to kill. Stealing expensive jewellery. Switching cars and phones. Dogs on beaches. Chips. Chocolate. Galette!
I’m smitten with the bratkin.
“Am I barking up the wrong tree, woofing for no reason, lying on my back with my tongue out when there’s no chance of having my tummy rubbed? Tell me and I’ll shut up. Well, I’ll try to.”
“I think part of me just thought - there you are at last. The piece of me that I didn’t realise was missing.”
Such a great read.
October 19, 2024
**********Contains Spoilers**********
I’ve read and enjoyed a few of Barbara Elsborg’s books and this was no different. My heart broke for everything that Ilya suffered through but it goes to show what a strong person he is not let it break him and still be his flirty, funny, snarky self. Julien hasn’t had it easy either, and has spent the last three years working for a Chechen Gangster and doing things he’d never thought he’d do and to help keep his parents safe. The only reason I’m glad that they were both in sh*tty situations is because it brought them together.
I thought that they were great together and thought their chemistry was off the charts. I loved their banter and Ilya’s ridiculous ramblings that always made Julien laugh. They had each other’s backs pretty much straight away and even after everything they’ve both been through it was hard to trust the other but they seemed to trust each other pretty much straight away. I’m looking forward to reading Arkady’s story, Taken which is a freebie download through BookFunnel next, as well as more books by Barbara Elsborg in the future. I’d recommend this book and author to others.
I’ve read and enjoyed a few of Barbara Elsborg’s books and this was no different. My heart broke for everything that Ilya suffered through but it goes to show what a strong person he is not let it break him and still be his flirty, funny, snarky self. Julien hasn’t had it easy either, and has spent the last three years working for a Chechen Gangster and doing things he’d never thought he’d do and to help keep his parents safe. The only reason I’m glad that they were both in sh*tty situations is because it brought them together.
I thought that they were great together and thought their chemistry was off the charts. I loved their banter and Ilya’s ridiculous ramblings that always made Julien laugh. They had each other’s backs pretty much straight away and even after everything they’ve both been through it was hard to trust the other but they seemed to trust each other pretty much straight away. I’m looking forward to reading Arkady’s story, Taken which is a freebie download through BookFunnel next, as well as more books by Barbara Elsborg in the future. I’d recommend this book and author to others.
October 15, 2024
If you're looking for a thrilling romance that's not afraid to inject a healthy dose of humor, Ilya is the perfect read. It was a joy to read, and both entertaining and suspenseful at the same time. Ms Elsborg's ability to balance intense action sequences, with witty dialogue and endearing characters is truly impressive. The chemistry between Ilya and Julian is undeniable, and their banter kept me smiling throughout. Despite the serious stakes, the novel never lost its sense of fun. Mostly, this is down to Ilya. He seems both harebrained and oblivious,but he proves to be clever, loyal, brave and witty. He misses absolutely nothing! Julian calls Ilya Bratkin, and he does his best to live up to it 😊 He and Julian are the perfect couple, they balance one another beautifully. I also liked the whole GFY theme, Julian identifies as straight, but falls hook, line and sinker for Ilya. Ilya fell for Julian almost immediately, and didn't bother to hide his attraction. Julien didn't really stand a chance, against Ilya's joie de vivre.
'“Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, questioning, queer, intersexual, asexual, two-spirit, plus pansexual, demisexual and androgynous…and I’m sure there’s more. But am I barking up the wrong tree, woofing for no reason, lying on my back with my tongue out when there’s no chance of having my tummy rubbed? Tell me and I’ll shut up. Well, I’ll try to.”'
Overall, Ilya is a highly entertaining read that kept me hooked from beginning to end. I love a thriller with a romantic twist, and a good dose of humour; this is definitely worth checking out.
'“Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, questioning, queer, intersexual, asexual, two-spirit, plus pansexual, demisexual and androgynous…and I’m sure there’s more. But am I barking up the wrong tree, woofing for no reason, lying on my back with my tongue out when there’s no chance of having my tummy rubbed? Tell me and I’ll shut up. Well, I’ll try to.”'
Overall, Ilya is a highly entertaining read that kept me hooked from beginning to end. I love a thriller with a romantic twist, and a good dose of humour; this is definitely worth checking out.
October 20, 2024
Another great book with fantastic, complex characters.
October 19, 2024
I really enjoy Barbara Elsborg's writing, and this was a great book.
However, her characters feel really cookie-cutter. Ilya was the fun, chatty twink that features in most of her books, and Julien had no personality.
I'd just love to read something new from her that features someone a little different.
However, her characters feel really cookie-cutter. Ilya was the fun, chatty twink that features in most of her books, and Julien had no personality.
I'd just love to read something new from her that features someone a little different.
December 19, 2024
Excellent read, absolutely loved it 😍
Barbara Elsborg is so good at writing wonderful characters that I immediately connect with. Characters that claim my heart just as Ilya and Julien have. This is a gritty powerful, heartbreaking and heartwarming story filled with angst, steam and humour. The snark is strong in Ilya!
The intricate and complex plot had me wanting more from the very first page to the outstanding conclusion. The mix of the romance and dramatic elements are perfectly balanced and the pacing is on point. I absolutely loved the journey that Ilya and Julien took me on and I couldn’t keep the smile from my face at the end. Highly recommended.
Barbara Elsborg is so good at writing wonderful characters that I immediately connect with. Characters that claim my heart just as Ilya and Julien have. This is a gritty powerful, heartbreaking and heartwarming story filled with angst, steam and humour. The snark is strong in Ilya!
The intricate and complex plot had me wanting more from the very first page to the outstanding conclusion. The mix of the romance and dramatic elements are perfectly balanced and the pacing is on point. I absolutely loved the journey that Ilya and Julien took me on and I couldn’t keep the smile from my face at the end. Highly recommended.
February 1, 2025
Sadly, I didn’t review this after I finished it. All I remember is that I really liked it.
October 19, 2024
One of my fave Barbara Elsborg books.
BE doesn't give her guys an easy path to happiness, and this book is no exception. It starts with some pretty brutal scenes and you have to wonder how someone as physically slight as Ilya withstands what he's on the receiving end of. But he does, with force of character and cunning and sheer determination that he's not going to give in without a fight. Because this could be his one and only chance at a life where he's not living by others' rules. And that, thankfully, puts him on a collision path with another guy whose future's being controlled, Julien.
There's BE's usual snark and sass from the younger guy, but here, it's part Ilya's character and part defense mechanism. It's such a contrast to Julien's quiet despair at the situation he was forced into. To lose what he did - so many huge losses in one night, to be forced into pretty much servitude and blackmail because of two of those he lost, feels unfair, wrong, and you almost know there's going to be double-crossing and no way out of a contract that started in blood and blackmail.
But, these guys find in each other something to fight for, and a happiness that's at their fingertips but also tainted by the prospect that what Julien's been forced to do could keep them apart even after all the bad guys are dealt with...
They have no friends in high places to help, no connections that wouldn't come with ropes attached, so risk it all is what they do. Thank goodness for Julien's persistence and for a cop who listens. And in a way, thank goodness for a brutal case of an eye for an eye, that means they're not going to be looking over their shoulders for the rest of their lives.
The book ends with the guys living a surprisingly everyday life, with relationships being repaired - although I did feel, until the Arkady freebie, that a certain someone hadn't paid enough for what they'd done. And ugh, at the end of the book, a certain beeotch hasn't gotten what she deserved, but hey, maybe BE wasn't feeling particularly beeotchy herself by then. Maybe just the one eye for an eye sufficed. In her book 😉
BE doesn't give her guys an easy path to happiness, and this book is no exception. It starts with some pretty brutal scenes and you have to wonder how someone as physically slight as Ilya withstands what he's on the receiving end of. But he does, with force of character and cunning and sheer determination that he's not going to give in without a fight. Because this could be his one and only chance at a life where he's not living by others' rules. And that, thankfully, puts him on a collision path with another guy whose future's being controlled, Julien.
There's BE's usual snark and sass from the younger guy, but here, it's part Ilya's character and part defense mechanism. It's such a contrast to Julien's quiet despair at the situation he was forced into. To lose what he did - so many huge losses in one night, to be forced into pretty much servitude and blackmail because of two of those he lost, feels unfair, wrong, and you almost know there's going to be double-crossing and no way out of a contract that started in blood and blackmail.
But, these guys find in each other something to fight for, and a happiness that's at their fingertips but also tainted by the prospect that what Julien's been forced to do could keep them apart even after all the bad guys are dealt with...
They have no friends in high places to help, no connections that wouldn't come with ropes attached, so risk it all is what they do. Thank goodness for Julien's persistence and for a cop who listens. And in a way, thank goodness for a brutal case of an eye for an eye, that means they're not going to be looking over their shoulders for the rest of their lives.
The book ends with the guys living a surprisingly everyday life, with relationships being repaired - although I did feel, until the Arkady freebie, that a certain someone hadn't paid enough for what they'd done. And ugh, at the end of the book, a certain beeotch hasn't gotten what she deserved, but hey, maybe BE wasn't feeling particularly beeotchy herself by then. Maybe just the one eye for an eye sufficed. In her book 😉
October 18, 2024
Barbara Elsborg is an automatic 1 click author for me as she has proven her quality time and time again.
There are always multi dimensional characters, sexual tension, lot's of exciting action, and most importantly cutting British humour, excellent.
Ilya is a kind hearted, quick witted and quick handed young man that is unfortunately son to a dirty Russian billionaire. To be Russian and gay and rich turns his life into a running nightmare, so he looks for ways to escape his prison. Cue Julien....
Ah, lovely Julien who is forever trying to protect his loved ones, but keeps falling deeper into the hands of the Chechen mafia. One minute he is a surgeon and the next a thief, counting down the days of his forced connection with the mafia he finds himself cornered on an active "mission". Just as he deftly stole a priceless necklace from a lady's neck Ilya took it right off his hands, it was take Ilya with him or risk getting caught...
So begins a game of international cat and mouse. Ilya on the run, Julien trying to trick his gang boss while trying to keep everyone safe and trying to stay alive, on top of all that he has to fight his attraction to Ilya. Poor man he should have known that he had no chance against a determined brat like Ilya.
Another fab story.
There are always multi dimensional characters, sexual tension, lot's of exciting action, and most importantly cutting British humour, excellent.
Ilya is a kind hearted, quick witted and quick handed young man that is unfortunately son to a dirty Russian billionaire. To be Russian and gay and rich turns his life into a running nightmare, so he looks for ways to escape his prison. Cue Julien....
Ah, lovely Julien who is forever trying to protect his loved ones, but keeps falling deeper into the hands of the Chechen mafia. One minute he is a surgeon and the next a thief, counting down the days of his forced connection with the mafia he finds himself cornered on an active "mission". Just as he deftly stole a priceless necklace from a lady's neck Ilya took it right off his hands, it was take Ilya with him or risk getting caught...
So begins a game of international cat and mouse. Ilya on the run, Julien trying to trick his gang boss while trying to keep everyone safe and trying to stay alive, on top of all that he has to fight his attraction to Ilya. Poor man he should have known that he had no chance against a determined brat like Ilya.
Another fab story.
October 18, 2024
- Bi-Awakening
- Thriller
I do so love Barbara Elsborg's writing. I love her sassy, smart-mouthed boys most of all, and Ilya is no exception. When we meet him he's at a real low point in his life, but is still full of snark and sass, as much as he can be. Julien too, is trapped in a different way but also seems to have no way out. I loved Ilya from the start, for all that he's been subjected to, he's still snarky and sassy and just plain fun. I smiled so much reading this and really, I shouldn't as there are some really dark subjects here. Kidnapping, forced conversion, imprisonment, mental and physical torture and that's just poor Ilya.
Julien is convinced he's straight when he meets Ilya, but I liked how open he was to exploring perhaps another side that he's denied for years. These two together are magic, their connection is real and palpable and they just get each other. I'm so happy I got to read their story and see them get to their HEA. I do think Ilya's dad got off too lightly, and his stepmother definitely did, an off page apology that might happen was no payoff for how horrific she was.
I really enjoyed this, and I can only imagine the chaos if Jonty and Ilya were ever to meet.
I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
- Thriller
I do so love Barbara Elsborg's writing. I love her sassy, smart-mouthed boys most of all, and Ilya is no exception. When we meet him he's at a real low point in his life, but is still full of snark and sass, as much as he can be. Julien too, is trapped in a different way but also seems to have no way out. I loved Ilya from the start, for all that he's been subjected to, he's still snarky and sassy and just plain fun. I smiled so much reading this and really, I shouldn't as there are some really dark subjects here. Kidnapping, forced conversion, imprisonment, mental and physical torture and that's just poor Ilya.
Julien is convinced he's straight when he meets Ilya, but I liked how open he was to exploring perhaps another side that he's denied for years. These two together are magic, their connection is real and palpable and they just get each other. I'm so happy I got to read their story and see them get to their HEA. I do think Ilya's dad got off too lightly, and his stepmother definitely did, an off page apology that might happen was no payoff for how horrific she was.
I really enjoyed this, and I can only imagine the chaos if Jonty and Ilya were ever to meet.
I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
October 20, 2024
Imagine a scorching hot romance crossed with a spine-tingling thriller. That's what you get in Barbara Elsborg's latest MM romance. Ilya is a fierce gay man whose father -- and rotten stepmother -- think it's a fine idea to lure him from Russia to England under the guise of his sister's wedding. The ugly surprise, a brutal conversion therapy phony, has Ilya desperate to escape. When he inadvertently observes the theft of his stepmother's diamond necklace, he seizes his chance to stealthily confront the thief and blackmail him into helping Ilya escape. Julien, we learn, is also under coercion to do the bidding of a mob boss. What follows is both thrilling and highly romantic, as their proximity bring out a desire Julien never suspected he harbored.
Skillfully crafted, the story keeps the reader in suspense, relieved through by Ilya's irrepressible wit and humor. There's loads of sass and sparks, and I honestly lost sleep because I just had to know how the adventure would resolve. I love Elsborg's work. She's one of my top four MM authors, and every time I read once of her books, I become totally absorbed and invested in the fascinating people she creates. If this is your first read by this gifted story teller, all I can say is, lucky, lucky you!!!
Skillfully crafted, the story keeps the reader in suspense, relieved through by Ilya's irrepressible wit and humor. There's loads of sass and sparks, and I honestly lost sleep because I just had to know how the adventure would resolve. I love Elsborg's work. She's one of my top four MM authors, and every time I read once of her books, I become totally absorbed and invested in the fascinating people she creates. If this is your first read by this gifted story teller, all I can say is, lucky, lucky you!!!
October 17, 2024
There never was a book written by Barbara Elsborg that I didn't like - actually I loved most of them.
Her ability to combine action , mystery, angst , humour and heat without missing a beat is uncompared and all of the above makes any of her books impossible to put down. I fell in love in most of her characters instantly but I was reluctant with Ilya - for about a few pages - lol.
When he feels free enough to be himself he's, lovable, courageous even beyond his abilities, loyal, smart as a whip, creative and determined. Especially in pursuing what he wants. There are not a lot of things he's hoping for, just the ones that should be granted to anyone - like freedom to be their self and love freely. But that's an elusive future for Ilya. Until her meets Julien. Somehow Julien sees beyond his walls and vice versa. As Ilya, Julien has a dark story and secrets of his own, but his walls start to crumble around Ilya and so is his conviction that he's completely straight.
Barbara Elsborg is one of the rare authors that are one click for me without even reading the blurb. Can't wait for what she comes up with next.
Her ability to combine action , mystery, angst , humour and heat without missing a beat is uncompared and all of the above makes any of her books impossible to put down. I fell in love in most of her characters instantly but I was reluctant with Ilya - for about a few pages - lol.
When he feels free enough to be himself he's, lovable, courageous even beyond his abilities, loyal, smart as a whip, creative and determined. Especially in pursuing what he wants. There are not a lot of things he's hoping for, just the ones that should be granted to anyone - like freedom to be their self and love freely. But that's an elusive future for Ilya. Until her meets Julien. Somehow Julien sees beyond his walls and vice versa. As Ilya, Julien has a dark story and secrets of his own, but his walls start to crumble around Ilya and so is his conviction that he's completely straight.
Barbara Elsborg is one of the rare authors that are one click for me without even reading the blurb. Can't wait for what she comes up with next.
October 27, 2024
Ilya by @barbaraelsborg is a ripping good read. There’s political intrigue, bad parenting, and horrific violence; but there’s also a sweet love story between a talented jewelry maker and a surgeon who lost his license through no fault of his own.
Ilya is the son of Bratva-adjacent father who whisked him to the UK for his sister’s wedding and time with a life coach who tries to “beat the gay out of him”. His treatment is brutal. And when fate gives Ilya the chance to escape with the help of a stranger, he takes it.
Julien is there to steal back a necklace for the Chechen fixer who’s had him under his thumb after a tragic mistake three years ago. When an intriguing young man catches him and asks for help in exchange for his silence, he can’t say no.
Drawn together by fate, they dare to hope for a future against all odds.
The twists and turns are compelling. In getting their HEA they also find justice for Julien’s brother and partner, and get their lives back.
There is karma retribution, but I think the complicit stepmother got off easy.
Another great read by Barbara!
Ilya is the son of Bratva-adjacent father who whisked him to the UK for his sister’s wedding and time with a life coach who tries to “beat the gay out of him”. His treatment is brutal. And when fate gives Ilya the chance to escape with the help of a stranger, he takes it.
Julien is there to steal back a necklace for the Chechen fixer who’s had him under his thumb after a tragic mistake three years ago. When an intriguing young man catches him and asks for help in exchange for his silence, he can’t say no.
Drawn together by fate, they dare to hope for a future against all odds.
The twists and turns are compelling. In getting their HEA they also find justice for Julien’s brother and partner, and get their lives back.
There is karma retribution, but I think the complicit stepmother got off easy.
Another great read by Barbara!
October 6, 2024
4.5 stars
Ilya is another great story by Barbara. Honestly, Barbara is an author that I don’t need a blurb because I love her writing.
Ilya has a snarky sassy mouth (which I love) and the banter with Julien is fantastic.
I absolutely loved their meeting, although I wished it was under better circumstances for Ilya. Julien has been through a lot, as we learn. He is doing things he never imagined to survive. They are both survivors which find trust, friendship, and love with each other.
Barbara always has a great balance of suspense/adventure with romance. I loved their HEA
Oh and don’t forget to read her freebie Taken after Ilya. You learn about Arkady in this book.
Another amazing book Barbara and I can’t wait for the next.
Ilya is another great story by Barbara. Honestly, Barbara is an author that I don’t need a blurb because I love her writing.
Ilya has a snarky sassy mouth (which I love) and the banter with Julien is fantastic.
I absolutely loved their meeting, although I wished it was under better circumstances for Ilya. Julien has been through a lot, as we learn. He is doing things he never imagined to survive. They are both survivors which find trust, friendship, and love with each other.
Barbara always has a great balance of suspense/adventure with romance. I loved their HEA
Oh and don’t forget to read her freebie Taken after Ilya. You learn about Arkady in this book.
Another amazing book Barbara and I can’t wait for the next.
February 22, 2025
This started off strong when Ilya, held captive by his father and stepmother in a misguided attempted at conversion therapy meets Lucien when he attempts to steal a diamond necklace from Ilya's mother. Great! Good action, suspense, will Ilya get away? Will Lucien help him? I was on the edge of my seat. And then, inexplicably, the action slowed down considerably. Yes, that is during the time Ilya and Lucien are together but I was looking for a bit more of the criminal aspects to intrude on their blossoming romance but nope. That made the book sort of drag for me. I loved Ilya and Lucien together - very cute, especially once Lucien realized how much he cared for Ilya but I kept looking for the bad guys around every corner - lol!!
October 29, 2024
It wasn't as good as I have expected. the relationship was very insta and things just didn't fit.
Julian was not really a criminal and didn't act as one for a second. Ilya didn't act like someone who had gone through conversion therapy.
I have read books who dealt with conversion therapy that totally broke my heart (if you don't know When You Come Back to Me by Emma Scott drop everything and give it a try) though here I have felt nothing, like Ilya had no trauma to deal with and he just left it behind.
so we were left with two small pawns in a "Big boys" game
Julian was not really a criminal and didn't act as one for a second. Ilya didn't act like someone who had gone through conversion therapy.
I have read books who dealt with conversion therapy that totally broke my heart (if you don't know When You Come Back to Me by Emma Scott drop everything and give it a try) though here I have felt nothing, like Ilya had no trauma to deal with and he just left it behind.
so we were left with two small pawns in a "Big boys" game
October 11, 2024
Spent the past week reading Ilya on my work breaks, and loved every minute. This is Barbara Elsborg's usual style MM thriller suspense and she does it so so well. Flawlessly written with emotional flair.
Ilya is a total bratkin... and his story is both heart warming and heart wrenching in equal parts. Really enjoyed the European flair of this with travels, languages and a very deserved HEA.
Trigger warnings for Conversion therapy, torture, guns and gore and of course explicit content.
Ilya is a total bratkin... and his story is both heart warming and heart wrenching in equal parts. Really enjoyed the European flair of this with travels, languages and a very deserved HEA.
Trigger warnings for Conversion therapy, torture, guns and gore and of course explicit content.
November 17, 2024
3.5 for this Barbara Elsborg book. The story took me awhile to get into, a Russian whose father has tried to try conversion rough conversion on his son Ilya. Ilya escapes his dad with the help of Lucien, a medical doctor who lost his license and is now working for a Crime Boss to be able to make some money to support his family.
Ilya and Lucien were a great pairing but the story just fell flat for me and there was a ton of sex, too much. So parts were very enjoyable, some weren't.
Ilya and Lucien were a great pairing but the story just fell flat for me and there was a ton of sex, too much. So parts were very enjoyable, some weren't.
August 27, 2025
4⭐
I did enjoy it. This author traumatized me in The Story of Us, so I was a little on edge when I began reading this.
But it transformed into something adorable and was filled with great humor. Ilya is such a lovable pain-in-the-ass golden retriever.
I did enjoy it. This author traumatized me in The Story of Us, so I was a little on edge when I began reading this.
But it transformed into something adorable and was filled with great humor. Ilya is such a lovable pain-in-the-ass golden retriever.
October 19, 2024
I adored Ilya! He’s sweet and sassy and so brave. He completely stole my heart right from the beginning. It may take Julien a bit longer to catch on to what he is feeling for the young man, but when he does it’s with utter devotion. It’s a beautiful slow burn filled with snark, action, and suspense. Gripping and emotional - I loved it!
October 17, 2024
Ilya & Julien
I enjoyed reading Ilya and Julien's story quite a bit. I was hooked fairly quick and read through this in no time. It was so interesting and very entertaining to read.
I received an ARC and this is my unbiased opinion
I enjoyed reading Ilya and Julien's story quite a bit. I was hooked fairly quick and read through this in no time. It was so interesting and very entertaining to read.
I received an ARC and this is my unbiased opinion
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