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Her Rustanov Bully
Just in case you were looking for a blueprint on how to accidentally earn yourself a bully, let me walk you through how I got mine.
First Mistake: Agreeing to my brother’s crazy, horrible scheme to seduce and drug my college’s hockey star, Yom “Yum” Rustanov, to get him disqualified for doping before his big international championship game. In the dictionary under femme fatale, you’ll find me—in the antonyms section.
Second Mistake: Accepting Yum Rustanov’s invitation to his hotel room when my conscience wouldn’t let me spike his drink. Sure, it was my once-in-a-lifetime chance to lose my V-card to a hockey god—but guilt over my first mistake had me running out in tears.
Third Mistake: Returning to school. I should have transferred. Because now, the hockey god is bodychecking me into walls, slamming his hands on either side of my head, and growling, “Did you really think there’d be no consequences for your actions?”
So, yeah… I’ve accidentally earned myself a bully. One totally committed to making my last year of college a living hell—and doing a terrifyingly excellent job of it.
But when a life-or-death emergency leaves me with no one else to turn to, my ice-cold bully steps up—with conditions. And now I have to is agreeing to his terms my worst mistake—or the spark that sets a fire I’ll never be able to put out?
First Mistake: Agreeing to my brother’s crazy, horrible scheme to seduce and drug my college’s hockey star, Yom “Yum” Rustanov, to get him disqualified for doping before his big international championship game. In the dictionary under femme fatale, you’ll find me—in the antonyms section.
Second Mistake: Accepting Yum Rustanov’s invitation to his hotel room when my conscience wouldn’t let me spike his drink. Sure, it was my once-in-a-lifetime chance to lose my V-card to a hockey god—but guilt over my first mistake had me running out in tears.
Third Mistake: Returning to school. I should have transferred. Because now, the hockey god is bodychecking me into walls, slamming his hands on either side of my head, and growling, “Did you really think there’d be no consequences for your actions?”
So, yeah… I’ve accidentally earned myself a bully. One totally committed to making my last year of college a living hell—and doing a terrifyingly excellent job of it.
But when a life-or-death emergency leaves me with no one else to turn to, my ice-cold bully steps up—with conditions. And now I have to is agreeing to his terms my worst mistake—or the spark that sets a fire I’ll never be able to put out?
386 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 26, 2025
558 people are currently reading
174 people want to read
About the author
Theodora Taylor
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Theodora Taylor writes hot books with heart. When not reading, reviewing or writing, she enjoys spending time with her amazing family, going on dating nights with her wonderful husband, and attending parties thrown by others.
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Theodora Taylor schreibt feurige Bücher mit Herz. Wenn sie nicht gerade selbst liest, schreibt oder Deutsch lernt, verbringt sie am liebsten Zeit mit ihrer Familie oder geht mit ihrem wundervollen Mann aus.
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SUBSCRIBE NOW!!!
Tritt Theodoras Mail-Verteiler bei und bekomme ein Gratisbuch
Tragt euch jetzt in diese Liste ein
Theodora Taylor writes hot books with heart. When not reading, reviewing or writing, she enjoys spending time with her amazing family, going on dating nights with her wonderful husband, and attending parties thrown by others.
| Amazon| Facebook | Instagram| Website |
🇩🇪🇩🇪🇩🇪
Theodora Taylor schreibt feurige Bücher mit Herz. Wenn sie nicht gerade selbst liest, schreibt oder Deutsch lernt, verbringt sie am liebsten Zeit mit ihrer Familie oder geht mit ihrem wundervollen Mann aus.
Amazon DE | lovelybooks | Facebook DE | Website DE |
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 139 reviews
February 26, 2025
Her Rustanov Bully by Theodora Taylor
2/5 stars
I hate, hate, hate, HATE writing reviews that are below 3 stars. I know authors put their heart and soul into their books. And I admire them so much. That they are able to create a story and give it the right words and put it into existence. And when I don't resonate with a book. That just kills me.
The blurb of Her Rustanov Bully screamed read me to my soul. I loved the blurb, the tropes, the way the blurb was written. I enthusiastically dove into this story but unfortunately this book wasn't for me. It didn't resonate with me at all.
The book starts with Lydia who's brother sets her up to drug and seduce Artyom Rustanov. Her brother wants Artyom aka Yom's team to lose a hockey game so he can cash in a huge bet. Lydia literally falls into his lap and immediately she is drawn to him. They make out but she doesn't drug him, because she just can't.
When he finds out, he makes her life a living hell at the university they both attend. And that is what this book is about. It's about a push and pull between two people who are attracted to each other but keep their distance for their own personal reasons.
And while that all sounds amazing, stunning and so, so good. It just failed to execute all those emotions. Lydia and Yom have no chemistry whatsoever. I didn't feel any longing, any love. It also took forever for them to have some emotional or love scenes. And when those scenes were there I just didn't feel it.
Yom is supposed to be a big bully. A man who is in charge and has a steady presence. And I didn't feel that either. He was written very one dimensional and I didn't see any inclination of a man in charge. He is so sweet and kind. And yes there are scenes where tries to exude dominance, but it just isn't there. The 'daddy' scene was just.. that just didn't work at all.
I hate to say it, but I didn't fall in love with either Lydia or Yom. I think... I.. Uhm.. I just didn't like them. And it just didn't work. The characters didn't come alive and that was such a shame.
I loved one scene. And that was the scene with Yom, Lydia and his family when his family adopted P.M. His family felt the most vibrant and alive. I love how willful, strong and no-nonsense they were.
And the last few chapters. Important things were off page. Things that would have given the characters a bit of heart. I don't understand how much was skipped and just told in the end. Like why? I would have loved an extra 50 to 100 pages to just feel and explore the characters in those important and vital events.
At the start of the book the book focuses a lot on a certain literary class at school. And suddenly that stops and we don't read anything about it any more. And I really missed that.
I also didn't understand how much Lydia loved school and how she tells Yom I need to study, I need to finish this. Her entire heart was in it. He even gave her a state of the art study room. And she just drops it so easily because she starts sleeping with a man? I.. just.. why?
I did like in part how Lydia's family situation was addressed. But I also didn't understand how little that affected her. Rough things happen and she just shrugs them off and poof she's happy.
So many little things didn't make sense. Things got contradicted and it just didn't flow.
And I hate, hate, hate writing this. But unfortunately this book is 2 out of 5 stars for me.
2/5 stars
I hate, hate, hate, HATE writing reviews that are below 3 stars. I know authors put their heart and soul into their books. And I admire them so much. That they are able to create a story and give it the right words and put it into existence. And when I don't resonate with a book. That just kills me.
The blurb of Her Rustanov Bully screamed read me to my soul. I loved the blurb, the tropes, the way the blurb was written. I enthusiastically dove into this story but unfortunately this book wasn't for me. It didn't resonate with me at all.
The book starts with Lydia who's brother sets her up to drug and seduce Artyom Rustanov. Her brother wants Artyom aka Yom's team to lose a hockey game so he can cash in a huge bet. Lydia literally falls into his lap and immediately she is drawn to him. They make out but she doesn't drug him, because she just can't.
When he finds out, he makes her life a living hell at the university they both attend. And that is what this book is about. It's about a push and pull between two people who are attracted to each other but keep their distance for their own personal reasons.
And while that all sounds amazing, stunning and so, so good. It just failed to execute all those emotions. Lydia and Yom have no chemistry whatsoever. I didn't feel any longing, any love. It also took forever for them to have some emotional or love scenes. And when those scenes were there I just didn't feel it.
Yom is supposed to be a big bully. A man who is in charge and has a steady presence. And I didn't feel that either. He was written very one dimensional and I didn't see any inclination of a man in charge. He is so sweet and kind. And yes there are scenes where tries to exude dominance, but it just isn't there. The 'daddy' scene was just.. that just didn't work at all.
I hate to say it, but I didn't fall in love with either Lydia or Yom. I think... I.. Uhm.. I just didn't like them. And it just didn't work. The characters didn't come alive and that was such a shame.
I loved one scene. And that was the scene with Yom, Lydia and his family when his family adopted P.M. His family felt the most vibrant and alive. I love how willful, strong and no-nonsense they were.
And the last few chapters. Important things were off page. Things that would have given the characters a bit of heart. I don't understand how much was skipped and just told in the end. Like why? I would have loved an extra 50 to 100 pages to just feel and explore the characters in those important and vital events.
At the start of the book the book focuses a lot on a certain literary class at school. And suddenly that stops and we don't read anything about it any more. And I really missed that.
I also didn't understand how much Lydia loved school and how she tells Yom I need to study, I need to finish this. Her entire heart was in it. He even gave her a state of the art study room. And she just drops it so easily because she starts sleeping with a man? I.. just.. why?
I did like in part how Lydia's family situation was addressed. But I also didn't understand how little that affected her. Rough things happen and she just shrugs them off and poof she's happy.
So many little things didn't make sense. Things got contradicted and it just didn't flow.
And I hate, hate, hate writing this. But unfortunately this book is 2 out of 5 stars for me.
February 21, 2025
3/5
TROPES:
-hockey
-bully
-enemies to lovers
-he’s wanted her from afar for YEARS
Lydia is being forced by her brother to drug a popular hockey star in order for him to fail his drug test and not be able to skate. She tries to go through with the plan, but isn’t able to when Yom, the hero, spots her.
He’s stunned Lydia wound up in his lap. He’s watched her for 3 years without her seeing him and refers to her as “Library Girl”. He offers to spend the night with her, as long as she signs an NDA, which she agrees to. He then finds out she’s a virgin and vows to make it special for her. After a bit of fun, she runs out of his hotel room because she feels guilty over what she almost did.
After a buuunch of mishaps, OW & OM drama, they finally end up together. 🥹 I loved this book… until I read the epilogue. 😭 Hence the 3 stars.
SAFETY:
-virgin heroine, bit of a manwhore hero
-OW/OM drama. OW: hero tries to hook up with another girl to get over Lydia, but he’s unable to go through with it. OM: heroine flirts with him to get access to his dog, lol.
-no cheating/sharing
-triggers: dog fighting, injured dog, bully
-kinks: daddy, rough sex, somno, anal play, dry humping, dirty talk
-HEA? the book ended on a good note, then the epilogue hits. that ruined the entire book for me 😭
TROPES:
-hockey
-bully
-enemies to lovers
-he’s wanted her from afar for YEARS
Lydia is being forced by her brother to drug a popular hockey star in order for him to fail his drug test and not be able to skate. She tries to go through with the plan, but isn’t able to when Yom, the hero, spots her.
He’s stunned Lydia wound up in his lap. He’s watched her for 3 years without her seeing him and refers to her as “Library Girl”. He offers to spend the night with her, as long as she signs an NDA, which she agrees to. He then finds out she’s a virgin and vows to make it special for her. After a bit of fun, she runs out of his hotel room because she feels guilty over what she almost did.
After a buuunch of mishaps, OW & OM drama, they finally end up together. 🥹 I loved this book… until I read the epilogue. 😭 Hence the 3 stars.
SAFETY:
-virgin heroine, bit of a manwhore hero
-OW/OM drama. OW: hero tries to hook up with another girl to get over Lydia, but he’s unable to go through with it. OM: heroine flirts with him to get access to his dog, lol.
-no cheating/sharing
-triggers: dog fighting, injured dog, bully
-kinks: daddy, rough sex, somno, anal play, dry humping, dirty talk
-HEA? the book ended on a good note, then the epilogue hits. that ruined the entire book for me 😭
Read
March 2, 2025Whew! Writing Her Rustanov Bully was a journey—one filled with obsession, angst, and a hero who absolutely refused to behave. Let’s just say Yom had opinions about how his and Lydia’s story should unfold.
This book is for readers who love their alphas intense, their tension electric, and their romance over-the-top in the best way possible. If possessiveness, obsession, and a little bit (okay, a LOT) of revenge appeal to you, Her Rustanov Bully just might be your next book hangover.
Add it to your shelves, and if you feel so inclined, leave a review. Your feedback means everything. ❤️
This book is for readers who love their alphas intense, their tension electric, and their romance over-the-top in the best way possible. If possessiveness, obsession, and a little bit (okay, a LOT) of revenge appeal to you, Her Rustanov Bully just might be your next book hangover.
Add it to your shelves, and if you feel so inclined, leave a review. Your feedback means everything. ❤️
March 1, 2025
I’ve never felt so seen as someone with ADHD. I did finish it in a day and stayed up until 2 am to finish the audio book. However, the way it ended!?! The way I almost threw my phone.
November 3, 2025
»The harder you fight a Rustanov who's in love with you, the harder they'll make you fall.«
★ ★ ★
❥ 𝑳𝒚𝒅𝒊𝒂 𝜗𝜚˚⋆
I liked her. She‘s the classical good and nerdy girl. I wish she got a little bit more backbone.
❥ 𝒀𝒐𝒎 ⋆✮
He couldn‘t decide if he hates or loves Lydia. He is a popular hockey player and didn‘t like to get tricked by our girl.
✥ 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒃𝒐𝒐𝒌
To be honest this wasn‘t as good as I hoped for. It‘s an easy and quick read but the special something is missing. The first 20% were amazing and I loved it but after it get‘s boring real quick. The idea is interesting and could have been really good but the implementation lacked. Additionally I had the feeling I need to read some other books by the author because some information were missing? So I‘m a little bit confused.
Lydia and Yom had good tension and I liked their dynamic although sometimes their feelings weren‘t described enough. It‘s the typical cliche bully romance.
Overall an okay book but I won‘t read the second book.
𝐰𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝 𝐈 𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐛𝐨𝐨𝐤?
Maybe.
𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝟓 ׂㅤ𐙚 ࣪ ⭒
plot: 3/5
spice: 1/5
humor: 3/5
couple/tension: 3/5
world building: 4/5
happy end?: cliff hanger
𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬 ₊ ⊹
possessive and protective hero, bully romance, billionaire athlete, bad boy x good girl, he falls first and harder, enemies to lovers, unhinged mmc, forced proximity, hockey romance
★ ★ ★
❥ 𝑳𝒚𝒅𝒊𝒂 𝜗𝜚˚⋆
I liked her. She‘s the classical good and nerdy girl. I wish she got a little bit more backbone.
❥ 𝒀𝒐𝒎 ⋆✮
He couldn‘t decide if he hates or loves Lydia. He is a popular hockey player and didn‘t like to get tricked by our girl.
✥ 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒃𝒐𝒐𝒌
To be honest this wasn‘t as good as I hoped for. It‘s an easy and quick read but the special something is missing. The first 20% were amazing and I loved it but after it get‘s boring real quick. The idea is interesting and could have been really good but the implementation lacked. Additionally I had the feeling I need to read some other books by the author because some information were missing? So I‘m a little bit confused.
Lydia and Yom had good tension and I liked their dynamic although sometimes their feelings weren‘t described enough. It‘s the typical cliche bully romance.
Overall an okay book but I won‘t read the second book.
𝐰𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝 𝐈 𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐛𝐨𝐨𝐤?
Maybe.
𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝟓 ׂㅤ𐙚 ࣪ ⭒
plot: 3/5
spice: 1/5
humor: 3/5
couple/tension: 3/5
world building: 4/5
happy end?: cliff hanger
𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬 ₊ ⊹
possessive and protective hero, bully romance, billionaire athlete, bad boy x good girl, he falls first and harder, enemies to lovers, unhinged mmc, forced proximity, hockey romance
February 17, 2025
Oh my goodness what a brilliant read.
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC copy, I'm so glad I did. This author does not disappoint and this book is another scorcher. The characters are off the charts. The conditions were handled with great consideration. I have to honest I made the mistake of starting this book in the evening, big mistake as I could not put the kindle down. A totally enjoyable engrossing book, with brilliant storytelling. The characters are just so full and relatable, even the villains.
I enjoyed how this book tied in with the other Rustanov characters, like with those other books it will have you in the edge of your seat.
I have already brought my pre-order copy of this book and will be reading again when it is released. Can't wait to tell my book loving friends.I
You all need to go out and purchase this book, you will do be pleased you did.
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC copy, I'm so glad I did. This author does not disappoint and this book is another scorcher. The characters are off the charts. The conditions were handled with great consideration. I have to honest I made the mistake of starting this book in the evening, big mistake as I could not put the kindle down. A totally enjoyable engrossing book, with brilliant storytelling. The characters are just so full and relatable, even the villains.
I enjoyed how this book tied in with the other Rustanov characters, like with those other books it will have you in the edge of your seat.
I have already brought my pre-order copy of this book and will be reading again when it is released. Can't wait to tell my book loving friends.I
You all need to go out and purchase this book, you will do be pleased you did.
Read
February 27, 2025DNF
The characters didn’t work out for me.
The characters didn’t work out for me.
February 27, 2025
There was something so compelling about this story! I couldn't put it down!
"The harder you fight a Rustanov who's in love with you, the harder they'll make you fall."
This story had a bit of everything and I was completely hooked on Artyom 'Yom' Rustanov and his 'Library Girl', Lydia Carrington. The attraction, the awkwardness, the misunderstandings, the bullying, the redemption, the fall into love, and then that shocking ending! I did not see that coming!
Lydia was soft-hearted, quirky and misunderstood. Yom was closed off, cold and quite insecure when it came to Lydia. He really knew how to hit hard as he lashed back against Lydia's perceived deception but, oh my gosh, did he redeem himself. He made it super difficult for Lydia to avoid falling in love with him. I was desperate for them to get over the line and, once they did, they were fire!! 🔥🔥
"Yom's heart dropped like he were a roller coaster - then soared. A wild feeling took over. The old loneliness drained away, replaced by something fierce and bright."
There were certainly moments throughout the story that really gripped my heart. I felt for both Lydia and Yom - my heart bled at the insights into their childhoods. What truly melted me were some of Yom's words. His English might not have been perfect, but I think he got his point across very well when it came to his desire and feelings for Lydia. Gah! I can't wait for the conclusion to their story.
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/review/R3O4CR6...
"The harder you fight a Rustanov who's in love with you, the harder they'll make you fall."
This story had a bit of everything and I was completely hooked on Artyom 'Yom' Rustanov and his 'Library Girl', Lydia Carrington. The attraction, the awkwardness, the misunderstandings, the bullying, the redemption, the fall into love, and then that shocking ending! I did not see that coming!
Lydia was soft-hearted, quirky and misunderstood. Yom was closed off, cold and quite insecure when it came to Lydia. He really knew how to hit hard as he lashed back against Lydia's perceived deception but, oh my gosh, did he redeem himself. He made it super difficult for Lydia to avoid falling in love with him. I was desperate for them to get over the line and, once they did, they were fire!! 🔥🔥
"Yom's heart dropped like he were a roller coaster - then soared. A wild feeling took over. The old loneliness drained away, replaced by something fierce and bright."
There were certainly moments throughout the story that really gripped my heart. I felt for both Lydia and Yom - my heart bled at the insights into their childhoods. What truly melted me were some of Yom's words. His English might not have been perfect, but I think he got his point across very well when it came to his desire and feelings for Lydia. Gah! I can't wait for the conclusion to their story.
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/review/R3O4CR6...
February 22, 2025
Obsessed is an understatement! I’m so grateful I received an ARC copy of this masterpiece.
As someone who has fallen for countless TT heroes and is a devoted Theodora Taylor fan, I can confidently say—Yom Rustanov is my ultimate book boyfriend! Move over, Lydia—I want him for myself!
This book wrecked me in the best way possible. The yearning, the obsession, the way Yom feels for Lydia? Words don’t do it justice. He is the definition of a #REALLOVER—possessive, devoted, and completely gone for her. Their dynamic had me hooked. Yes, Yom misunderstood a lot in the beginning (and okay, he bullied her a little), but beneath it all, he was fiercely protective. And that dominance? Whew. Never overbearing, just right—or maybe I’m just toxic, who knows?
I can’t wait for the next book! I was a little sad not to get their full happy ending in this one and that cliffhanger definitely took me by surprise but knowing we’ll get more of their story this summer makes up for it. Yom and Lydia have me in a chokehold, and I need more!
As someone who has fallen for countless TT heroes and is a devoted Theodora Taylor fan, I can confidently say—Yom Rustanov is my ultimate book boyfriend! Move over, Lydia—I want him for myself!
This book wrecked me in the best way possible. The yearning, the obsession, the way Yom feels for Lydia? Words don’t do it justice. He is the definition of a #REALLOVER—possessive, devoted, and completely gone for her. Their dynamic had me hooked. Yes, Yom misunderstood a lot in the beginning (and okay, he bullied her a little), but beneath it all, he was fiercely protective. And that dominance? Whew. Never overbearing, just right—or maybe I’m just toxic, who knows?
I can’t wait for the next book! I was a little sad not to get their full happy ending in this one and that cliffhanger definitely took me by surprise but knowing we’ll get more of their story this summer makes up for it. Yom and Lydia have me in a chokehold, and I need more!
Want to read
February 16, 2025Can somebody else read the blurb and tell me if I’m having a stroke
May 5, 2025
ending pissed me off so bad like tf? this author loves to milk storylines for NO REASON. but hey that what’s she pushes in her how to become a seven figure author so… hey it works but not for me. i will not read book 2. ruined a pretty okay book with that cluster fuck of an ending. I AM UPSET!!!!
February 28, 2025
I have been waiting for a Rustanov story for a while. I absolutely love all the Rustanov love stories, and this was no different. It was more of a slow burn as Yom and Lydia meet in college, so we get a true backstory as opposed to flashbacks, like in a few of the other books in the series. So Lydia is very much awkward black girl, and Yom is almost in an insta- love with her. Except she's dishonest about their first interaction, and the bullying begins soon after he finds out. The bullying is mild, compared to other bully romances I've read. It felt more enemies-to-lover, especially because of the misunderstanding. There were tons of sweet moments between the two of them as their relationship grew. There are a few characters that get introduced at different points, and it got a little confusing. I really wanted more of Yom and Lydia. There was so much sexual tension building throughout the novel, and it gets steamy over halfway through it. But just when you think they get their happily ever after, a major cliffhanger knocks you out. The good part is that their will be a continuation of all grown up Yom and Lydia. I'm so here for it. It seems like it's going to be a lot like his uncles stories. I'm thinking Bair/Serena and Alexei/Eva. I received an ARC of this novel and I highly recommend it for any Theodora Taylor fans. If this is your first novel of hers, read it and then get all the Rustanov novels. You won't regret it.
July 9, 2025
Yom & The Library Girl
Cliffhanger s**ks !!
Yom , is the vilain you cannot help yourself but love… Now I need to know what happened, they were so great together after every and boom, six whole tears later !!???
The Rustanov men loved super hard & Yom was no different, I am hoping that Lydia character evolved over the six years to match the over dominant Yom. Can’t wait 🙌
Cliffhanger s**ks !!
Yom , is the vilain you cannot help yourself but love… Now I need to know what happened, they were so great together after every and boom, six whole tears later !!???
The Rustanov men loved super hard & Yom was no different, I am hoping that Lydia character evolved over the six years to match the over dominant Yom. Can’t wait 🙌
February 18, 2025
Wow! Upsetting a Rustanov has many consequences. The worse being breathing the same air as him- Yom Rustanov. Watchout Lydia Yom is coming for you. And he is even more ruthless than his brother Cheslav. Great to see 'old friends' throughout the story, can't wait until the summer. Loved it.
February 16, 2025
Oh, holy lord! TT has done it again. Every time I think I've read her best book, here she comes again. I could not put this book down and seriously read it in two sittings. Marvelous! Her characters are always so believable and unique but totally relatable. I can't eat for her next book!
March 2, 2025
The way this ended required mental gymnastics my brain was not equipped to execute after eating a gummy
September 20, 2025
I hate cliffhangers
Boy, those Rustanov men are some kind of crazy. Artyom Rustanov wanted Lydia Carrington from the first time he saw her in the library that was named after her father. He knew she was the one and kept his distance from her because he knew she would be a distraction. That wad until she literally fell in his lap. But when he heard from her brother why, all if his hurt emotions for his "Library Girl" caused him to be an unrelenting bulky almost forcing Lydia to almost drop out of school. When Yom findsout the truth of Lydia's actions he is determined to have her fall for him just as hard as he has for her,by giving his "bunny" the ultimate boyfriend experience.
We see Yom go to extremes in this book. He went from sweet nice guy to a bully, to an overprotective maniac back to a sweet guy. Lydia was his everything and he vowed to always be there for her and protect her.
Just when they are getting to really know each other, the author drops a bomb on the readers. WHAT THE HELL HAPPENED? And why? Know we have to wait for the next book to drop to find out. Regardless of my disappointment, it was good to read mention of previous Rustanov characters and the honorary Rustanov, Suro Nakamuro.
Boy, those Rustanov men are some kind of crazy. Artyom Rustanov wanted Lydia Carrington from the first time he saw her in the library that was named after her father. He knew she was the one and kept his distance from her because he knew she would be a distraction. That wad until she literally fell in his lap. But when he heard from her brother why, all if his hurt emotions for his "Library Girl" caused him to be an unrelenting bulky almost forcing Lydia to almost drop out of school. When Yom findsout the truth of Lydia's actions he is determined to have her fall for him just as hard as he has for her,by giving his "bunny" the ultimate boyfriend experience.
We see Yom go to extremes in this book. He went from sweet nice guy to a bully, to an overprotective maniac back to a sweet guy. Lydia was his everything and he vowed to always be there for her and protect her.
Just when they are getting to really know each other, the author drops a bomb on the readers. WHAT THE HELL HAPPENED? And why? Know we have to wait for the next book to drop to find out. Regardless of my disappointment, it was good to read mention of previous Rustanov characters and the honorary Rustanov, Suro Nakamuro.
March 13, 2025
Loved it
Theodora I can't believe you left me hanging like that!!!!? Love the Russians though. Each one is so intense when they fall in love. I appreciate the fact that you write characters that have challenges to overcome like Lydia. Rustanov men always get their woman one way or another. Don't make me wait for Part 2
Theodora I can't believe you left me hanging like that!!!!? Love the Russians though. Each one is so intense when they fall in love. I appreciate the fact that you write characters that have challenges to overcome like Lydia. Rustanov men always get their woman one way or another. Don't make me wait for Part 2
October 9, 2025
Beauty & The Beast or .... Stockholm Syndrome Love Story
I'm not sure what to call this love story but, what I am sure of is my feelings on this book is conflicted. On one hand I want to say I like this book. But, on the other hand I want to say, no this book was not up to par with my taste buds.
Which leads to me being conflicted. So let's do a mixture of bad/good feeling on this review, so that maybe I can navigate my feeling towards Yom & Lydia.
First let me say I ABSOLUTELY love the Rustanov series.
There is just something about the Rustanov men that really get your blood boiling and your body HOT! These men did not come to play, and neither does the female they chose as their wife.
I Absolutely love watching how they navigate through their lives/love story. I enjoy reading how these men own up to their mistakes, as well as try to right what they did wrong, and punish themselves for their own wrong doings.
But, don't sleep on their wives, their wives are no joke.
At one point they might've been lost, and submissive, with a small, ( and I do mean small ) back bone. But as I like to say, experience makes the best medicine, and they come back stronger than before. The glow up from where they started vs where they are now, is one that you cannot help but give a standing ovation to.
So you can only IMAGINE how excited I was when another Rustanov book came out.
Now here where I'm conflicted.
Yom, our ML, is a hockey player/College Student, who is killing it out there on the ice. He's someone that most teams want, esp. our FL, Lydia's father. Now you would think that this would be about Lydia's father, telling his daughter to whore herself out there to gain Yom attention so they can get him on the team.
But no.
That's just a extremely small factor of it. Instead of it being her father who's demanding she does something against her own views (though he did highly suggest she whore herself out to Yom), it's her older brother. Her older brother is the one demanding she roofie Yom's drink, so that he can be disqualified, that way his team can win the upcoming match.
Key in the start of the domino effect that gets the ball rolling.
Lydia is unable to follow through with it, her brother loses the match, and Yom ends up finding out about it. Obviously feeling some type of way, and receiving some bad/good advice from cousins and uncles. He device a plan to get revenge and claim her as his. Since unbeknownst to Lydia, he actually knew about her before hand and had a crush on her.
Lydia our College damsel in distress; and I do mean distress, is not having an easy life at the moment. Pressured into following others demands, Lydia is pulled into situation after situation. From trying to appease her parents. To always feeling force to do her brother bidding, and dealing with his bullying and at times abuse. To now having to deal with being a target to Yom and now his bullying, and the entire campus bullying her and rumors. She just cannot catch a break.
I can for sure say, I HATE that she is bullied to this degree. The entire school is bullying her, and just following after what Yom says. Everywhere she goes she never catching a break and I got so angry when she wasn't fighting back. She just kept accepting everything, and kept apologizing and asking Yom to forgive her. When she was getting harassed no one helped her but her best friend and friend. This was too much and I don't think she should've forgave him as easy as she did.
I believe and feel that Yom was right, he did not deserve her, nor did he work as hard as I believe, to gain that forgiveness he was asking for. He should've gone through even more hell and begging before she just outright forgave him. And since she forgave him as quickly as she did, it just doesn't sit well with me at all.
I'm not saying that Yom wasn't trying to regain forgiveness, once he realize the truth, and was trying to right his wrong. But he should've done a lot more begging & self punishment, before he was allow to get into her cookie jar, and forgiven.
Yom, if nothing is a Rustanov man, and like his uncles before him, he knows what he needs to do to gain forgiveness and do better. In the book they kept saying/comparing him to his uncle Blair. But i don't think they're similar at all. The way that Blair grew up was way more worse then how he grew up, and comparing these two is uncomparable in my opinion. Yom life compare to his uncle Blair is child play. Blair had REAL adult life problems/issues. While Yom on the other hand.... not so much.
But I enjoy reading about Yom character, he's a true Rustanov man, who handles those that crosses him and his, in the same manner his uncles would have. I have to say that the way things went down with Tommy, had me clutching my pearls 😂 gasping in shock. All I can say is "Damn!"😱😱😱
What I 100% ABSOLUTELY LOVE is the anime reference that was included in the book. For all those anime loving otaku nerds like myself, I feel that Lydia is a fellow anime loving girl. And I LOVE it. I was geeking and saying 'Oop. Am I reading this right? Yesss!!! Okay Lydia I see you." 😂 😂
Which we now come to my closing point.
I'm conflicted. I like but dislike Yom & Lydia love story.
I debating on reading the next book, but decided on reading it, since I'm geek on the switch up Lydia gave Yom. That and the change in Yom speech has me going "Ohh. You don't say."
Something about a man or a woman going over and beyond for their love ones always gets me excited to read about what happens next. 😂 Its that unstoppable energy they produce that makes everything exciting, and feel like shit about to go down. 😂
And maybe because they're adults and they're a bit more season so its not given me High school love story. 😂
I'm not sure what to call this love story but, what I am sure of is my feelings on this book is conflicted. On one hand I want to say I like this book. But, on the other hand I want to say, no this book was not up to par with my taste buds.
Which leads to me being conflicted. So let's do a mixture of bad/good feeling on this review, so that maybe I can navigate my feeling towards Yom & Lydia.
First let me say I ABSOLUTELY love the Rustanov series.
There is just something about the Rustanov men that really get your blood boiling and your body HOT! These men did not come to play, and neither does the female they chose as their wife.
I Absolutely love watching how they navigate through their lives/love story. I enjoy reading how these men own up to their mistakes, as well as try to right what they did wrong, and punish themselves for their own wrong doings.
But, don't sleep on their wives, their wives are no joke.
At one point they might've been lost, and submissive, with a small, ( and I do mean small ) back bone. But as I like to say, experience makes the best medicine, and they come back stronger than before. The glow up from where they started vs where they are now, is one that you cannot help but give a standing ovation to.
So you can only IMAGINE how excited I was when another Rustanov book came out.
Now here where I'm conflicted.
Yom, our ML, is a hockey player/College Student, who is killing it out there on the ice. He's someone that most teams want, esp. our FL, Lydia's father. Now you would think that this would be about Lydia's father, telling his daughter to whore herself out there to gain Yom attention so they can get him on the team.
But no.
That's just a extremely small factor of it. Instead of it being her father who's demanding she does something against her own views (though he did highly suggest she whore herself out to Yom), it's her older brother. Her older brother is the one demanding she roofie Yom's drink, so that he can be disqualified, that way his team can win the upcoming match.
Key in the start of the domino effect that gets the ball rolling.
Lydia is unable to follow through with it, her brother loses the match, and Yom ends up finding out about it. Obviously feeling some type of way, and receiving some bad/good advice from cousins and uncles. He device a plan to get revenge and claim her as his. Since unbeknownst to Lydia, he actually knew about her before hand and had a crush on her.
Lydia our College damsel in distress; and I do mean distress, is not having an easy life at the moment. Pressured into following others demands, Lydia is pulled into situation after situation. From trying to appease her parents. To always feeling force to do her brother bidding, and dealing with his bullying and at times abuse. To now having to deal with being a target to Yom and now his bullying, and the entire campus bullying her and rumors. She just cannot catch a break.
I can for sure say, I HATE that she is bullied to this degree. The entire school is bullying her, and just following after what Yom says. Everywhere she goes she never catching a break and I got so angry when she wasn't fighting back. She just kept accepting everything, and kept apologizing and asking Yom to forgive her. When she was getting harassed no one helped her but her best friend and friend. This was too much and I don't think she should've forgave him as easy as she did.
I believe and feel that Yom was right, he did not deserve her, nor did he work as hard as I believe, to gain that forgiveness he was asking for. He should've gone through even more hell and begging before she just outright forgave him. And since she forgave him as quickly as she did, it just doesn't sit well with me at all.
I'm not saying that Yom wasn't trying to regain forgiveness, once he realize the truth, and was trying to right his wrong. But he should've done a lot more begging & self punishment, before he was allow to get into her cookie jar, and forgiven.
Yom, if nothing is a Rustanov man, and like his uncles before him, he knows what he needs to do to gain forgiveness and do better. In the book they kept saying/comparing him to his uncle Blair. But i don't think they're similar at all. The way that Blair grew up was way more worse then how he grew up, and comparing these two is uncomparable in my opinion. Yom life compare to his uncle Blair is child play. Blair had REAL adult life problems/issues. While Yom on the other hand.... not so much.
But I enjoy reading about Yom character, he's a true Rustanov man, who handles those that crosses him and his, in the same manner his uncles would have. I have to say that the way things went down with Tommy, had me clutching my pearls 😂 gasping in shock. All I can say is "Damn!"😱😱😱
What I 100% ABSOLUTELY LOVE is the anime reference that was included in the book. For all those anime loving otaku nerds like myself, I feel that Lydia is a fellow anime loving girl. And I LOVE it. I was geeking and saying 'Oop. Am I reading this right? Yesss!!! Okay Lydia I see you." 😂 😂
Which we now come to my closing point.
I'm conflicted. I like but dislike Yom & Lydia love story.
I debating on reading the next book, but decided on reading it, since I'm geek on the switch up Lydia gave Yom. That and the change in Yom speech has me going "Ohh. You don't say."
Something about a man or a woman going over and beyond for their love ones always gets me excited to read about what happens next. 😂 Its that unstoppable energy they produce that makes everything exciting, and feel like shit about to go down. 😂
And maybe because they're adults and they're a bit more season so its not given me High school love story. 😂
February 28, 2025
Wow!! Yom and Lydia. All I can say is fire! True to the Rustanov male behavior, Yom did not disappoint and poor Lydia did not know what she was getting herself into. I loved this book and the emotional rollercoaster that was Yom. I did not see that little twist at the end and was like what just happened?! In perfect Ms. Taylor style she lulled me into a happy place, then BAM! Hit me over the head with a twist that had my head spinning and now I can't wait to see what happens next. I'm so there for this ride and recommend joining in this one.
February 27, 2025
I was not ready for Yom or that ending! TT always knows how to write a story that pulls you in from the beginning. I love a morally gray alpha male that is obsessed with his queen. The family connections that allow glimpses into other stories was a bonus. The ending was so unexpected, and I am happy for the Easter eggs into future stories. There is a cliffhanger that will make you wish it was summer already!
February 25, 2025
*I was provided an ARC for an honest review*
Her Rustanov Bully is the latest addition to Theodora Taylor’s very popular ‘Ruthless Rustanov’s’ series.
I was introduced to Ms Taylor through her first Rustanov book in the series, Her Russian Billionaire and it’s really amazing to see how the Rustanov Family has grown since then.
Her Rustanov Bully begins with college student and chronic people pleaser Lydia Carrington who, in an attempt to help her asshat of an adopted brother win a bet, agrees to seduce star hockey player, Artyom ‘Yum’ Rustanov. Little does she know that Artyom not only knows of her existence but has been actively obsessed with (and diet stalking) her for three years.
However when Yom learns of Lydia’s deceit he decides to dish out his own revenge by becoming her bully for the last year of college.
Ok, now onto the review.
Her Rustanov Bully is very much what I have come to expect from a Theodora Taylor title; heroine too sweet for her own good, hero whose thirst for revenge masks his obsession with the heroine, drama, intensity, sexy times and insane displays of wealth, power and status.
This is a story I’ve read many times, but I have to say Ms Taylor is such a compelling writer that I still enjoyed it. I’d liken the experience of reading a story so similar to her early work as eating a meal that I’ve had before and know I like.
What I will say about this is that I would still appreciate a bit more variation in the characters and plot. Most of Ms Taylor’s heroines are super duper saccharine sweet, naïve virgin playthings for their wealthy, stoic, hard to read heroes. Lydia and Yom are no different.
I believe this is the first book I’ve read from Ms Taylor where most of the action takes place on a university campus which was interesting (usually, this stage of the characters lives is only seen in the first one or two chapters or through flashback).
Lydia’s struggles with ADHD, Dyslexia and her learning difficulties was something I think lots of readers will find relatable and I thought this was done well.
For characters that were supposedly twenty two in the year twenty twenty five, a lot of the references the characters made were that of someone who had grown up in the 80s.
The characters also explained themselves A LOT, to the point where I began to suspect Ms Taylor was running in front of the reader’s imaginary complaints through their voices. I had toxic friendship, toxic relationships etc over explained by the characters and that dialogue felt more like an approximation of what a member of Gen Z would say than natural speech.
The story was mainly Lydia and Yom’s POV but would sometimes be the POV of a side character, something I’ve noticed Ms Taylor does in recent stories and which personally takes me out of the story. I don’t want to hear the POV of a side character, I want to spend time in the main characters heads. The POV choice tends to be absurdly random too.
I feel like I didn’t know much about Lydia’s backstory. What was revealed was interesting but not pondered upon much by her or explored in conversations with Yom. I would’ve liked to have heard more about her birth mother, her experience growing up with the Carringtons etc.
The TTCU (Theodora Taylor Cinematic Universe as I call it) was in full force and fans of her other books will be able to get sneak peaks into how other characters lives look since you last read their love story which I think is quite nice and goes toward world-building.
The sex scenes happen in the latter part of the book and as expected were hot. I wondered beforehand if this was going to be a clean romance because they weren’t threaded through most of the earlier chapters like I’ve seen in her other works, but even with that thought I still wanted to keep reading and see what happened to the characters.
Her Rustanov Bully is the first title I’ve been able to finish since the year started. Theodora Taylor writes such an engaging story that this was the last thing I read at night and the first thing I read in the morning. I enjoyed this read and look forward to seeing what happens next.
Her Rustanov Bully is the latest addition to Theodora Taylor’s very popular ‘Ruthless Rustanov’s’ series.
I was introduced to Ms Taylor through her first Rustanov book in the series, Her Russian Billionaire and it’s really amazing to see how the Rustanov Family has grown since then.
Her Rustanov Bully begins with college student and chronic people pleaser Lydia Carrington who, in an attempt to help her asshat of an adopted brother win a bet, agrees to seduce star hockey player, Artyom ‘Yum’ Rustanov. Little does she know that Artyom not only knows of her existence but has been actively obsessed with (and diet stalking) her for three years.
However when Yom learns of Lydia’s deceit he decides to dish out his own revenge by becoming her bully for the last year of college.
Ok, now onto the review.
Her Rustanov Bully is very much what I have come to expect from a Theodora Taylor title; heroine too sweet for her own good, hero whose thirst for revenge masks his obsession with the heroine, drama, intensity, sexy times and insane displays of wealth, power and status.
This is a story I’ve read many times, but I have to say Ms Taylor is such a compelling writer that I still enjoyed it. I’d liken the experience of reading a story so similar to her early work as eating a meal that I’ve had before and know I like.
What I will say about this is that I would still appreciate a bit more variation in the characters and plot. Most of Ms Taylor’s heroines are super duper saccharine sweet, naïve virgin playthings for their wealthy, stoic, hard to read heroes. Lydia and Yom are no different.
I believe this is the first book I’ve read from Ms Taylor where most of the action takes place on a university campus which was interesting (usually, this stage of the characters lives is only seen in the first one or two chapters or through flashback).
Lydia’s struggles with ADHD, Dyslexia and her learning difficulties was something I think lots of readers will find relatable and I thought this was done well.
For characters that were supposedly twenty two in the year twenty twenty five, a lot of the references the characters made were that of someone who had grown up in the 80s.
The characters also explained themselves A LOT, to the point where I began to suspect Ms Taylor was running in front of the reader’s imaginary complaints through their voices. I had toxic friendship, toxic relationships etc over explained by the characters and that dialogue felt more like an approximation of what a member of Gen Z would say than natural speech.
The story was mainly Lydia and Yom’s POV but would sometimes be the POV of a side character, something I’ve noticed Ms Taylor does in recent stories and which personally takes me out of the story. I don’t want to hear the POV of a side character, I want to spend time in the main characters heads. The POV choice tends to be absurdly random too.
I feel like I didn’t know much about Lydia’s backstory. What was revealed was interesting but not pondered upon much by her or explored in conversations with Yom. I would’ve liked to have heard more about her birth mother, her experience growing up with the Carringtons etc.
The TTCU (Theodora Taylor Cinematic Universe as I call it) was in full force and fans of her other books will be able to get sneak peaks into how other characters lives look since you last read their love story which I think is quite nice and goes toward world-building.
The sex scenes happen in the latter part of the book and as expected were hot. I wondered beforehand if this was going to be a clean romance because they weren’t threaded through most of the earlier chapters like I’ve seen in her other works, but even with that thought I still wanted to keep reading and see what happened to the characters.
Her Rustanov Bully is the first title I’ve been able to finish since the year started. Theodora Taylor writes such an engaging story that this was the last thing I read at night and the first thing I read in the morning. I enjoyed this read and look forward to seeing what happens next.
March 6, 2025
2.5 out of 5 stars
This is the love story of Yom and Lydia (22 years old)! They are both in the same college, and Yom is a hockey player.
Overall what I really liked:
-The beginning of this book had me hooked! The premise was unique-Lydia's brother wants her to drug Yom so that Yom can't play in the hockey game that is happening the next day! I loved Lydia and Yom's "meet cute" and how awkward/funny Lydia was. Their conversation about classes, interactions at the bar/hotel, and how they ended up in the hotel room together were nice moments together.
-I liked Lydia as a character and her internal monologue had me laughing out loud many times. The voice messages mentions, between her and others, that were sprinkled in the story (rather than regular texts) was a unique addition that I hadn't seen before in other books. I think it added well to Lydia's character.
-As for Yom, I thought he was sweet at times and thought it was cute how he referenced Lydia as "library girl" more than once in the book (He falls first)!
-I think it was nice seeing how the heroine's brother was not the typical overprotective type. I think, often times, romance books have the heroine's brother be this overprotective, super sweet/caring towards his sister, which has become so common. So, I was surprised and glad that Lydia's brother wasn't portrayed that way!
-Lastly, something else that I thought was unique about the story was that some chapters (just a few) had POV's from different characters (different from the hero/heroine POV's)!
** I listened to this book via audio and the female narrator did great really making you feel the emotions that Lydia was going through (throughout the story). I also liked listening to the male narrator's voice and really think he stole the show-He did Yom's Russian accent so well! I am definitely going to look up more books that he has narrated!
However, I think I mainly wasn't a fan of Yom's character (e.g., his personality, actions, etc.) and didn't truly buy into Lydia and Yom's love. I like bully romances because you get to see character growth and often see a hate/enemies to love type of relationship, so I was really expecting him Yom to be more of a "bully." I feel like he wasn't actually that mean to Lydia at all. The moments that he was a "bully" were very brief and it wasn't a big part of their story. (Side note-I think one of the professor's mentioned was more of a "bully" than Yom was!). I also wanted to see more moments like the beginning, where Lydia and Yom are spending more quality time together (talking and getting to know each other) after the bully phase. Often, their interactions were short and conversations were not really about them as a couple. I would have loved to see moments spent either on dates or them just by themselves in deeper conversations. Once they were intimate and more of a couple, I couldn't really believe why they liked/loved each other because of the short time and little meaningful interactions they had. I only really saw connection moments in the beginning of the story. I think there were multiple opportunities where this could have happened (e.g., when Lydia stayed with Yom at one point, more during school time, etc.) but it didn't occur.
Additionally, the ending was a bit abrupt, and I would have liked to have more reasoning for what happens in the last two chapters (the book does end in a cliffhanger, however, so I am sure those questions would be resolved in the second part of the book). Lastly, I think this just might be my personal preference, but I wasn't a big fan of Yom's POV chapters (the hero's perspective) being told in 3rd POV. I think it would have added to the story to understand more of what his thoughts and feelings were about himself and his relationship with Lydia in a 1st person POV.
I still would like to read more by this author and see if I enjoy a different type of book that she has written!
*I received an ALC in exchange for an honest review and am extremely grateful to have been given the opportunity to listen to Yom and Lydia's story!
This is the love story of Yom and Lydia (22 years old)! They are both in the same college, and Yom is a hockey player.
Overall what I really liked:
-The beginning of this book had me hooked! The premise was unique-Lydia's brother wants her to drug Yom so that Yom can't play in the hockey game that is happening the next day! I loved Lydia and Yom's "meet cute" and how awkward/funny Lydia was. Their conversation about classes, interactions at the bar/hotel, and how they ended up in the hotel room together were nice moments together.
-I liked Lydia as a character and her internal monologue had me laughing out loud many times. The voice messages mentions, between her and others, that were sprinkled in the story (rather than regular texts) was a unique addition that I hadn't seen before in other books. I think it added well to Lydia's character.
-As for Yom, I thought he was sweet at times and thought it was cute how he referenced Lydia as "library girl" more than once in the book (He falls first)!
-I think it was nice seeing how the heroine's brother was not the typical overprotective type. I think, often times, romance books have the heroine's brother be this overprotective, super sweet/caring towards his sister, which has become so common. So, I was surprised and glad that Lydia's brother wasn't portrayed that way!
-Lastly, something else that I thought was unique about the story was that some chapters (just a few) had POV's from different characters (different from the hero/heroine POV's)!
** I listened to this book via audio and the female narrator did great really making you feel the emotions that Lydia was going through (throughout the story). I also liked listening to the male narrator's voice and really think he stole the show-He did Yom's Russian accent so well! I am definitely going to look up more books that he has narrated!
However, I think I mainly wasn't a fan of Yom's character (e.g., his personality, actions, etc.) and didn't truly buy into Lydia and Yom's love. I like bully romances because you get to see character growth and often see a hate/enemies to love type of relationship, so I was really expecting him Yom to be more of a "bully." I feel like he wasn't actually that mean to Lydia at all. The moments that he was a "bully" were very brief and it wasn't a big part of their story. (Side note-I think one of the professor's mentioned was more of a "bully" than Yom was!). I also wanted to see more moments like the beginning, where Lydia and Yom are spending more quality time together (talking and getting to know each other) after the bully phase. Often, their interactions were short and conversations were not really about them as a couple. I would have loved to see moments spent either on dates or them just by themselves in deeper conversations. Once they were intimate and more of a couple, I couldn't really believe why they liked/loved each other because of the short time and little meaningful interactions they had. I only really saw connection moments in the beginning of the story. I think there were multiple opportunities where this could have happened (e.g., when Lydia stayed with Yom at one point, more during school time, etc.) but it didn't occur.
Additionally, the ending was a bit abrupt, and I would have liked to have more reasoning for what happens in the last two chapters (the book does end in a cliffhanger, however, so I am sure those questions would be resolved in the second part of the book). Lastly, I think this just might be my personal preference, but I wasn't a big fan of Yom's POV chapters (the hero's perspective) being told in 3rd POV. I think it would have added to the story to understand more of what his thoughts and feelings were about himself and his relationship with Lydia in a 1st person POV.
I still would like to read more by this author and see if I enjoy a different type of book that she has written!
*I received an ALC in exchange for an honest review and am extremely grateful to have been given the opportunity to listen to Yom and Lydia's story!
February 26, 2025
Her Rustanov Bully Review: Yom & Lydia’s Sizzling Showdown
I have been fully immersed in Theodora Taylor’s world since The Owner of His Heart (Her Ruthless Tycoon) and have been absolutely captivated by the Rustanov men since Alexei made his grand entrance in Her Russian Billionaire. Then, of course, Nikolai came along and cemented his place in my heart as my favorite Rustanov (and a top-five Theodora Taylor leading man).
But that was before I met Artyom “Yom” Rustanov.
While this book is labeled as a bully romance, let’s be real—Yom’s “bully” moments are pretty tame compared to the heavyweights of the genre. (In my humble opinion, Galen "Hades" Fairgood from the Hades duology still holds the title of most ruthless TTU bully.) Thanks to the dual POV, we are immediately pulled into both Lydia and Yom’s minds, making it impossible not to root for them. From the start, you can feel their chemistry, their unspoken longing, and—let’s be honest—Yom’s hopelessly soft heart hidden under all that broody Rustanov bravado.
One thing I absolutely loved? There were no overly dramatic, cringeworthy flaws that unnecessarily complicated their relationship. Their dynamic felt authentic—well, as authentic as a romance can be when it involves a Rustanov. (If you know, you know.) Their love story unfolds with that signature Theodora Taylor magic—steamy yet emotional, intense yet playful, and with just the right amount of Rustanov chaos.
Now, I’ll admit: I was NOT prepared for this to be a duet. So yes, it ends on a cliffhanger. And listen, I usually run from cliffhangers like they’re on fire. But this book? Worth it. And now I’m desperately hoping that Ms. Taylor’s fingers are flying across that keyboard because I need to know (in my best Doja Cat voice) how book bae Yommie is going to win his woman back—and who had the audacity to ruin their happy home.
Quick plot breakdown: Lydia’s brother, drowning in gambling debt, wants her to drug Yom before a major hockey game. She reluctantly agrees but can’t go through with it. However, Yom still loses the game when he gets distracted seeing Lydia with her brother (who he assumes is her boyfriend). Just like that, Lydia has unknowingly made an enemy of Artyom Rustanov. Back at school, Yom makes it his mission to ruin her pristine reputation. But soon, he realizes the Lydia he’s tormenting is the same Lydia he fell for during their first encounter. After some trademark Rustanov meddling (shoutout to Uncle Alexei and Uncle Nikolai), Yom embarks on a classic Rustanov-style wooing campaign—translation: cohabitation by coercion until you love me, while I silently prove my devotion through acts of service because words are overrated.
And just when we get our happy-for-now? BOOM. The cliffhanger hits.
For my fellow spice lovers: this book definitely has heat, but it’s a slow burn, which I personally appreciated. I love a good spicy read, but I don’t need to be set on fire from page one. When the steam finally arrives, it feels earned and oh-so-satisfying.
And because no Theodora Taylor book is complete without some juicy Easter eggs, we get some delightful teases for future books—Merry and her mystery man (👀), multiple Lukas Brandt sightings, and a mention of Geoff Latham.
Overall, Her Rustanov Bully recaptures everything I adore about Theodora Taylor’s writing. Lydia and Artyom are incredibly well-developed, and their love story is equal parts heartwarming and heart-pounding. If you’re a longtime TTU fan or a newbie looking for your next book obsession, this one is a must-read!
I have been fully immersed in Theodora Taylor’s world since The Owner of His Heart (Her Ruthless Tycoon) and have been absolutely captivated by the Rustanov men since Alexei made his grand entrance in Her Russian Billionaire. Then, of course, Nikolai came along and cemented his place in my heart as my favorite Rustanov (and a top-five Theodora Taylor leading man).
But that was before I met Artyom “Yom” Rustanov.
While this book is labeled as a bully romance, let’s be real—Yom’s “bully” moments are pretty tame compared to the heavyweights of the genre. (In my humble opinion, Galen "Hades" Fairgood from the Hades duology still holds the title of most ruthless TTU bully.) Thanks to the dual POV, we are immediately pulled into both Lydia and Yom’s minds, making it impossible not to root for them. From the start, you can feel their chemistry, their unspoken longing, and—let’s be honest—Yom’s hopelessly soft heart hidden under all that broody Rustanov bravado.
One thing I absolutely loved? There were no overly dramatic, cringeworthy flaws that unnecessarily complicated their relationship. Their dynamic felt authentic—well, as authentic as a romance can be when it involves a Rustanov. (If you know, you know.) Their love story unfolds with that signature Theodora Taylor magic—steamy yet emotional, intense yet playful, and with just the right amount of Rustanov chaos.
Now, I’ll admit: I was NOT prepared for this to be a duet. So yes, it ends on a cliffhanger. And listen, I usually run from cliffhangers like they’re on fire. But this book? Worth it. And now I’m desperately hoping that Ms. Taylor’s fingers are flying across that keyboard because I need to know (in my best Doja Cat voice) how book bae Yommie is going to win his woman back—and who had the audacity to ruin their happy home.
Quick plot breakdown: Lydia’s brother, drowning in gambling debt, wants her to drug Yom before a major hockey game. She reluctantly agrees but can’t go through with it. However, Yom still loses the game when he gets distracted seeing Lydia with her brother (who he assumes is her boyfriend). Just like that, Lydia has unknowingly made an enemy of Artyom Rustanov. Back at school, Yom makes it his mission to ruin her pristine reputation. But soon, he realizes the Lydia he’s tormenting is the same Lydia he fell for during their first encounter. After some trademark Rustanov meddling (shoutout to Uncle Alexei and Uncle Nikolai), Yom embarks on a classic Rustanov-style wooing campaign—translation: cohabitation by coercion until you love me, while I silently prove my devotion through acts of service because words are overrated.
And just when we get our happy-for-now? BOOM. The cliffhanger hits.
For my fellow spice lovers: this book definitely has heat, but it’s a slow burn, which I personally appreciated. I love a good spicy read, but I don’t need to be set on fire from page one. When the steam finally arrives, it feels earned and oh-so-satisfying.
And because no Theodora Taylor book is complete without some juicy Easter eggs, we get some delightful teases for future books—Merry and her mystery man (👀), multiple Lukas Brandt sightings, and a mention of Geoff Latham.
Overall, Her Rustanov Bully recaptures everything I adore about Theodora Taylor’s writing. Lydia and Artyom are incredibly well-developed, and their love story is equal parts heartwarming and heart-pounding. If you’re a longtime TTU fan or a newbie looking for your next book obsession, this one is a must-read!
February 24, 2025
This is the first time I have experienced a Theodora Taylor book and I have no idea what to think about it..There is alot going on in this book and there were parts I enjoyed and some parts I didn't care for.
I listened to the audiobook version of this book which is narrated wonderfully by Sydney Zaylin and Wen Ross who were able to do the accents and portraying the emotions just right.
I did enjoy listening to them.
Now it did take me some time to actually get into the story I think I got a bit confused as the male character was called by 2 names.
Anyway Yom is a Hockey player he is in Germany to win the Championships with his teammates and Lydia is there to stop him from winning, coerced by her brother Paul she is supposed to seduce him,and drug him,so he couldn't play.
But Lydia couldn't do it, instead she recieved an Orgasm ,when she went back to Yom's hotel room..and then fled in horror at what she had done.Lydia was feeling so guilty she is a quiet girl and kept out of the spotlight in University she liked to remain unimportant.
But now she had a target on her back as Yom now hated her and decided to make her life hell in school...and he did just that.
Yom was devestated at what Lydia had done and what she was supposed to do,he had crushed on her ever since the day he seen her in the library.He was so happy to get her back to his room but she just ran from him.It was the day of the championships that he lost because Lydia had distracted him and his team lost.
Back in the U.S.A. he would get his revenge...
There is so much more going on after the championship event that I just couldn't even begin to tell you about.
Lydia is adopted the family that chose her are wealthy so Paul her so called brother is a real A-hole she also has a learning disability,she has ADHD and Dyslexia and she has worked hard to get were she was in her education...which Yom is destroying.
Yom is also from a rich family except they are ruthless..He is so possessive and obsessive about Lydia some of the things he did were uncomfortable I didnt know if to love or hate him to be honest.
This book is such a rollercoaster and it DOES end on a cliffhanger !!..Which has left me completely intrigued about what will happen next.
So I am eager to listen to book 2 whenever that will be,I have a feeling it will be better than this book as the implications of what had happened hangs in the air.
I did enjoy the story but the 4 stars is because of the DADDY Kink thing that just makes me cringe..lol.
A Good listen despite that.
4 Stars.
I listened to the audiobook version of this book which is narrated wonderfully by Sydney Zaylin and Wen Ross who were able to do the accents and portraying the emotions just right.
I did enjoy listening to them.
Now it did take me some time to actually get into the story I think I got a bit confused as the male character was called by 2 names.
Anyway Yom is a Hockey player he is in Germany to win the Championships with his teammates and Lydia is there to stop him from winning, coerced by her brother Paul she is supposed to seduce him,and drug him,so he couldn't play.
But Lydia couldn't do it, instead she recieved an Orgasm ,when she went back to Yom's hotel room..and then fled in horror at what she had done.Lydia was feeling so guilty she is a quiet girl and kept out of the spotlight in University she liked to remain unimportant.
But now she had a target on her back as Yom now hated her and decided to make her life hell in school...and he did just that.
Yom was devestated at what Lydia had done and what she was supposed to do,he had crushed on her ever since the day he seen her in the library.He was so happy to get her back to his room but she just ran from him.It was the day of the championships that he lost because Lydia had distracted him and his team lost.
Back in the U.S.A. he would get his revenge...
There is so much more going on after the championship event that I just couldn't even begin to tell you about.
Lydia is adopted the family that chose her are wealthy so Paul her so called brother is a real A-hole she also has a learning disability,she has ADHD and Dyslexia and she has worked hard to get were she was in her education...which Yom is destroying.
Yom is also from a rich family except they are ruthless..He is so possessive and obsessive about Lydia some of the things he did were uncomfortable I didnt know if to love or hate him to be honest.
This book is such a rollercoaster and it DOES end on a cliffhanger !!..Which has left me completely intrigued about what will happen next.
So I am eager to listen to book 2 whenever that will be,I have a feeling it will be better than this book as the implications of what had happened hangs in the air.
I did enjoy the story but the 4 stars is because of the DADDY Kink thing that just makes me cringe..lol.
A Good listen despite that.
4 Stars.
March 2, 2025
A Yommie Bully
Her Rustanov Bully by Theodora Taylor is a spicy, enemies-to-lovers journey that deftly mixes raw passion with unexpected twists. Centered on the latest generation of the Rustanov legacy, we follow Yom (Artyom) and Lydia—two college seniors whose explosive dynamic is as captivating as it is conflicted.
Taylor infuses the narrative with authenticity, most notably through Yom’s charming Russian accent and his vulnerable admissions (those “I want you to love me” moments really leave an impression). When compared to earlier Rustanov characters, Yom’s openness stands out—unlike his uncles, whose emotional distance often rendered them more intimidating than endearing, Yom’s candid vulnerability sparks a genuine connection. It leaves you with a flutter of anticipation.
However, the story isn’t without its missteps. Despite a blurb and an opening chapter that promises a true enemies-to-lovers college romance, around the 30–40% mark, the narrative veers off course, failing to check all the boxes. The pacing suffers as the middle drags, and the climax feels underwhelming: instead of facing a formidable external obstacle—say, Lydia uncovering Yom’s misdeeds with Tommy—the conflict remains largely internal, built on their own self-sabotage rather than a tangible, dramatic challenge.
There’s also a note on character depth. While Taylor usually crafts memorable supporting roles, the secondary character Clara Quinn comes off as bitter and underdeveloped—a minor drawback in otherwise engaging characters.
Still, the intimate scenes are undeniably well-crafted, drawing you into their immersive heat, and the quirky touches like the “black hello kitty wave” and scattered anime references add moments of playful energy, even if they sometimes feel a bit afterthought. And though the heavy-handed subplot involving Tommy and his father throws a jarring twist into the mix, the cliffhanger ending is perfectly set to leave you eagerly awaiting the next installment.
Overall, Her Rustanov Bully is an engaging romp through love, vulnerability, and redemption. If you’re a fan of the enemies-to-lovers trope and can overlook a few narrative bumps, this tale is definitely worth your time.
Her Rustanov Bully by Theodora Taylor is a spicy, enemies-to-lovers journey that deftly mixes raw passion with unexpected twists. Centered on the latest generation of the Rustanov legacy, we follow Yom (Artyom) and Lydia—two college seniors whose explosive dynamic is as captivating as it is conflicted.
Taylor infuses the narrative with authenticity, most notably through Yom’s charming Russian accent and his vulnerable admissions (those “I want you to love me” moments really leave an impression). When compared to earlier Rustanov characters, Yom’s openness stands out—unlike his uncles, whose emotional distance often rendered them more intimidating than endearing, Yom’s candid vulnerability sparks a genuine connection. It leaves you with a flutter of anticipation.
However, the story isn’t without its missteps. Despite a blurb and an opening chapter that promises a true enemies-to-lovers college romance, around the 30–40% mark, the narrative veers off course, failing to check all the boxes. The pacing suffers as the middle drags, and the climax feels underwhelming: instead of facing a formidable external obstacle—say, Lydia uncovering Yom’s misdeeds with Tommy—the conflict remains largely internal, built on their own self-sabotage rather than a tangible, dramatic challenge.
There’s also a note on character depth. While Taylor usually crafts memorable supporting roles, the secondary character Clara Quinn comes off as bitter and underdeveloped—a minor drawback in otherwise engaging characters.
Still, the intimate scenes are undeniably well-crafted, drawing you into their immersive heat, and the quirky touches like the “black hello kitty wave” and scattered anime references add moments of playful energy, even if they sometimes feel a bit afterthought. And though the heavy-handed subplot involving Tommy and his father throws a jarring twist into the mix, the cliffhanger ending is perfectly set to leave you eagerly awaiting the next installment.
Overall, Her Rustanov Bully is an engaging romp through love, vulnerability, and redemption. If you’re a fan of the enemies-to-lovers trope and can overlook a few narrative bumps, this tale is definitely worth your time.
February 27, 2025
This is a sports romance, bully, college, and dark romance. It really starts out sweet between Lydia and Yom. It was like a rom com meet cute. Yom didn't know, however, that Lydia was sent by her brother to drug Yom. Lydia's brother was going to lose too much money in a bet if Yom continued to play in the hockey tournament.
I was curious how Yom knew Lydia's name before she ever told him? Have no fear, that question gets answered. When Yom finds out what Lydia did, Yom turns into a completely different person than the one Lydia first met. I guess Rustanov is code for hulk like, bully, and full of fury. "Do not act the Rustanov." Yom is going to make Lydia regret ever meeting him. Lydia's bragging brother walks away scot free.
I honestly thought Yom would feel better after he found out why Lydia did what she did. However, I think somehow Yom was even more furious? Yom definitely bullies Lydia, hard. I think that was extra hard for Lydia because she genuinely was a good person and strives to please everyone. I mean consider her major and where she works. Yom just jumped to conclusions without giving Lydia a chance to explain herself. "But over the next few days, I came to find out that the tyranny of my new Rustanov bully had only just begun." Hence the "Anything List" is born. If Lydia has to do anything, why make a list? Anything pretty well encompasses, well everything.
1000% did not expect this ending! This book was all happiness, then left off on a huge cliffhanger. The ending broke my heart, truly! How can the obsession Yom had lead to this?😭 If not for the ending, I would've given this 5 stars.
MEMORABLE QUOTE: (or not depending on your kinks)
“This is what you will understand, zayka. I am your Daddy, your protector. Your body belongs to Daddy. Your heart belongs to Daddy, who will keep you, take care of you, and never… ever… let you go.”
I received a advanced copy of this book and voluntarily left this review.
I was curious how Yom knew Lydia's name before she ever told him? Have no fear, that question gets answered. When Yom finds out what Lydia did, Yom turns into a completely different person than the one Lydia first met. I guess Rustanov is code for hulk like, bully, and full of fury. "Do not act the Rustanov." Yom is going to make Lydia regret ever meeting him. Lydia's bragging brother walks away scot free.
I honestly thought Yom would feel better after he found out why Lydia did what she did. However, I think somehow Yom was even more furious? Yom definitely bullies Lydia, hard. I think that was extra hard for Lydia because she genuinely was a good person and strives to please everyone. I mean consider her major and where she works. Yom just jumped to conclusions without giving Lydia a chance to explain herself. "But over the next few days, I came to find out that the tyranny of my new Rustanov bully had only just begun." Hence the "Anything List" is born. If Lydia has to do anything, why make a list? Anything pretty well encompasses, well everything.
1000% did not expect this ending! This book was all happiness, then left off on a huge cliffhanger. The ending broke my heart, truly! How can the obsession Yom had lead to this?😭 If not for the ending, I would've given this 5 stars.
MEMORABLE QUOTE: (or not depending on your kinks)
“This is what you will understand, zayka. I am your Daddy, your protector. Your body belongs to Daddy. Your heart belongs to Daddy, who will keep you, take care of you, and never… ever… let you go.”
I received a advanced copy of this book and voluntarily left this review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 26, 2025
OMG!!! The Queen of the Swirl has done it again!!! I fell in love with Ms.Taylor’s books while recovering from major surgery in 2016 and that was The Ruthless Russians box set a.k.a. The Rustanovs…Alexi, Nikolai, Bair (Boris), & Ivan and their women!!! I was SO OVER THE MOON by this series I read it Twice. Over the years I’ve read this series a few dozen times and that lead to my following Ms.Taylor. She is known for her shifter books also and I thoroughly enjoyed & loved those books. However, after she released the Love in 50 states series I was COMPLETELY BLOWN AWAY!!! ❤️ What I LOVE about Ms.Taylor’s writing is you will see how characters from other books will show up in other books by her. Oh the storyline, Chemistry & Heat from Yom & Lydia is off the charts in this crazy heated romance. I see Ches Yom’s brother, Nik, Sam, Suro, Tasha, and Sasha X Kasha all make appearances and this is what I mean by the connection with Ms.Taylor’s characters from her books!!! She is an EXCEPTIONAL writer and romantic storyteller. I received my copy as an ARC and I have read this story three times already. I couldn’t see how it would end and she stunned me… that’s ALL I’m going to say about that. I love Ms.Taylor’s shifter books, however her LOVE in 50 States is one that I would say “If you don’t know, ask me!!!”🔥🔥🔥❤️❤️❤️ If you’re genre is the swirl BWWM, then Theodora Taylor is your go to for Romantic, Sexy, Erotic stories with SEXY, HOT ALPHA WHITE Males & the BEAUTIFUL SEXY COCOA SKIN WOMAN they go after and claim. So get a bottle of wine, settle in and let yourself go into the SEXY, POWERFUL Rustanov family dynamics & empire! TRUST…YOU WILL NOT BE DISAPPOINTED,YOU WILL SAY WHERE CAN I FIND A RUSTANOV? BRAVO Ms. Taylor…BRAVO!!!👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾❤️❤️❤️
February 23, 2025
When Lydia and Yom initially meet, it’s at the coaxing of her adopted brother Paul’s request to drug him so that his hockey team would lose the championship games they’re playing in Berlin, so that Paul doesn’t lose the money he has betted. Right away, it’s obvious that Paul is a sketchy character for even asking his sister to do something so shady, and though she wants to make her brother happy, Lydia doesn’t end up going through with it. She does however catch Yom’s attention, and unbeknownst to her, this isn’t the first time that she has captivated him since they attend the same Minnesota university. After a failed attempt to hookup because Lydia’s conscience prevents her from going through with it, she goes back to school hoping to move on from the experience. Her brother Paul reveals to Yom that he was set up by his sister, and Yom is dead set on getting revenge. Though he tries to ruin her reputation and almost succeeds, he begins to see the genuine and sensitive girl Lydia is and begins to doubt that she had nefarious intentions. What starts out as him blackmailing her into spending more time with him turns into an obsession with Lydia that Yom can’t deny. The chemistry between the two of them is white hot, and makes for strong, passionate attraction that consumes them both. If you’re looking for a bully romance that you can get lost in, Her Rustanov Bully doesn’t disappoint!
February 26, 2025
🌟Dark Sports Romance
🌟Enemies to Lovers
🌟Boy Obsessed
🌟Bully
🌟J/P MMC
🌟Interracial/Multicultural
🌟Angsty
🌟Dyslexia & ADHD Rep
🌟Slow Burn
🌟Dual POV
🌟Cliffhanger
🌟🌶️🌶️🌶️
Her Rustanov Bully was an intense, emotionally charged ride that had me hooked from the start. Lydia is sweet, compassionate, a little awkward, and the kind of person who struggles to say no—even when she should. Yom, on the other hand, is intense, brooding, and utterly relentless. They couldn’t be more different, yet their connection crackles with tension.
Lydia’s people-pleasing tendencies land her in a situation with devastating consequences, while Yom—who has been secretly drawn to her for years—lets his humiliation twist into a desire for revenge. The chemistry between them is electric, tangled in a mess of longing, resentment, and unresolved emotions. It’s pure, delicious angst, where hate and desire burn side by side.
Their slow-burn connection eventually erupts into something undeniable, layered with unexpected moments of tenderness. But beneath the passion, red flags rain down and Lydia can’t resist the thrill of their call. Both carry the weight of complicated family histories, and in a way, their shared pain allows them to see each other more clearly than anyone else ever has.
But let me tell you—I did not realize this isn’t a standalone. When those epilogues hit, I was left reeling. I need answers. I need closure. And I absolutely need the next book ASAP!
Special thanks to VPR for the gifted copy 💕
🌟Enemies to Lovers
🌟Boy Obsessed
🌟Bully
🌟J/P MMC
🌟Interracial/Multicultural
🌟Angsty
🌟Dyslexia & ADHD Rep
🌟Slow Burn
🌟Dual POV
🌟Cliffhanger
🌟🌶️🌶️🌶️
Her Rustanov Bully was an intense, emotionally charged ride that had me hooked from the start. Lydia is sweet, compassionate, a little awkward, and the kind of person who struggles to say no—even when she should. Yom, on the other hand, is intense, brooding, and utterly relentless. They couldn’t be more different, yet their connection crackles with tension.
Lydia’s people-pleasing tendencies land her in a situation with devastating consequences, while Yom—who has been secretly drawn to her for years—lets his humiliation twist into a desire for revenge. The chemistry between them is electric, tangled in a mess of longing, resentment, and unresolved emotions. It’s pure, delicious angst, where hate and desire burn side by side.
Their slow-burn connection eventually erupts into something undeniable, layered with unexpected moments of tenderness. But beneath the passion, red flags rain down and Lydia can’t resist the thrill of their call. Both carry the weight of complicated family histories, and in a way, their shared pain allows them to see each other more clearly than anyone else ever has.
But let me tell you—I did not realize this isn’t a standalone. When those epilogues hit, I was left reeling. I need answers. I need closure. And I absolutely need the next book ASAP!
Special thanks to VPR for the gifted copy 💕
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