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Elite 8 Studios #7
Bruiser
Before there was Elite 8 Studios, there was Trevor and Isaac.
Trevor
My college plans are simple: study, graduate, and get my business off the ground. Until one chance encounter in the library has my sights shifting.
Isaac is as fiery as the hair atop his head. With his ire directed at me, I should steer clear. But I can’t step away from the English major I suspect is harboring some hurt.
With a mutual love for poetry and undeniable chemistry sparking between us, it’s not long before Isaac starts letting me in.
But will Isaac’s affection fizzle when he learns about the videos I make in my spare time?
Or will the discovery of a shared passion only be our beginning?
Bruiser is an opposites-at-first-glance romance between an up-and-coming adult entertainer and the reluctantly smitten brat who doesn’t mind playing voyeur. There’s budding love in a library, ridiculous friends, poetry as flirting, and one very HEA. It’s book seven in the Elite 8 Studios series but can be read as a standalone.
Trevor
My college plans are simple: study, graduate, and get my business off the ground. Until one chance encounter in the library has my sights shifting.
Isaac is as fiery as the hair atop his head. With his ire directed at me, I should steer clear. But I can’t step away from the English major I suspect is harboring some hurt.
With a mutual love for poetry and undeniable chemistry sparking between us, it’s not long before Isaac starts letting me in.
But will Isaac’s affection fizzle when he learns about the videos I make in my spare time?
Or will the discovery of a shared passion only be our beginning?
Bruiser is an opposites-at-first-glance romance between an up-and-coming adult entertainer and the reluctantly smitten brat who doesn’t mind playing voyeur. There’s budding love in a library, ridiculous friends, poetry as flirting, and one very HEA. It’s book seven in the Elite 8 Studios series but can be read as a standalone.
328 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 30, 2026
About the author
Emmy Sanders
22 books1,964 followersEmmy Sanders, author of sweet, steamy, swoony MM romance, would describe herself as a lover of love. She's obsessed with both reading and writing romance and believes everyone deserves their happy ending. Queer herself, Emmy has a soft spot for LGBTQ+ fiction, but MM is where her heart lies. Her debut novel, Fool Hearts, released in 2022.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 242 reviews
May 3, 2026
Omg y’all I loved this so much, Isaac & Trevor are my new favorites of the series 🥹 I’ve been hoping for their book since we got to see them renew their vows in book 3. I really enjoyed getting to see the start of Elite 8 Studios too & how passionate Trevor is about it & everything.
Trevor is honestly such a sweetie and it was so hilarious how he really got under Isaac’s skin in the beginning & seeing Isaac reluctantly warm up to him. They’re so supportive of each other and I loved how open Trevor was to exploring Isaac’s kinks with him-he’s definitely his safe space. Their love is just so genuine & real and I love how honest & trusting they are of each other. Trevor actually made me cry a lil bit a few times with how sweet he was (Isaac’s birthday specifically & the forest tattoo he got for them). The scene at the end where Isaac tells him about his dream library had me crying too, they really just had me all emotional 😭
I adore everything Emmy writes & I’m looking forward to Jerome & Nathaniel’s book next!
Fav parts (sorry it’s a lot):
“I like your burnt edges, Red. And your soft ones. I can’t wait to make you melt for me…again and again and again.”
There’s that fire again, curling around me like the most precious cocoon. “Oh, Red. I understand you perfectly.” He looks up, meeting my eyes. Blue flames dance in his. Fire, fire, licks and burns… Consume me, piece and peace.”
I give his hand a squeeze. “Your stare could burn the world, Red.” His eyes shift to mine, softening. “If that’s true, it’s because I have you giving me oxygen.”
“When I think about my perfect place, it’s a library,” I tell him softly. “Maybe because I didn’t have a lot of friends growing up, and books have always been…approachable. I don’t know. But I always felt safe there, even inside my own head. And for as long as I can remember, the library looked exactly the same.” Trevor watches me curiously. Quietly. I puff out a tiny breath before going on. “It’s looked different lately. There’s this guy there that never used to be inside my dream library. He takes up a lot of space, but I don’t mind. I actually like it a lot. Because he’s comfortable to be around, and he makes me feel…safe. The same way my books do. I think… I think I love this man. And that scares me a lot. Because dreams don’t always come true. And reality? God. Sometimes it sucks.”
Trevor is honestly such a sweetie and it was so hilarious how he really got under Isaac’s skin in the beginning & seeing Isaac reluctantly warm up to him. They’re so supportive of each other and I loved how open Trevor was to exploring Isaac’s kinks with him-he’s definitely his safe space. Their love is just so genuine & real and I love how honest & trusting they are of each other. Trevor actually made me cry a lil bit a few times with how sweet he was (Isaac’s birthday specifically & the forest tattoo he got for them). The scene at the end where Isaac tells him about his dream library had me crying too, they really just had me all emotional 😭
I adore everything Emmy writes & I’m looking forward to Jerome & Nathaniel’s book next!
Fav parts (sorry it’s a lot):
“I like your burnt edges, Red. And your soft ones. I can’t wait to make you melt for me…again and again and again.”
There’s that fire again, curling around me like the most precious cocoon. “Oh, Red. I understand you perfectly.” He looks up, meeting my eyes. Blue flames dance in his. Fire, fire, licks and burns… Consume me, piece and peace.”
I give his hand a squeeze. “Your stare could burn the world, Red.” His eyes shift to mine, softening. “If that’s true, it’s because I have you giving me oxygen.”
“When I think about my perfect place, it’s a library,” I tell him softly. “Maybe because I didn’t have a lot of friends growing up, and books have always been…approachable. I don’t know. But I always felt safe there, even inside my own head. And for as long as I can remember, the library looked exactly the same.” Trevor watches me curiously. Quietly. I puff out a tiny breath before going on. “It’s looked different lately. There’s this guy there that never used to be inside my dream library. He takes up a lot of space, but I don’t mind. I actually like it a lot. Because he’s comfortable to be around, and he makes me feel…safe. The same way my books do. I think… I think I love this man. And that scares me a lot. Because dreams don’t always come true. And reality? God. Sometimes it sucks.”
May 20, 2026
This book is a 6/5 🥲
Absolutely stunning in it's intimacy, honesty and the bubble covering everything in a sheen of romance and friggin poetry. I've read 18th &19th century romance and found it cheezy at times, but never have I ever enjoyed the poetry spoken and applied in a book better than this. Trevor is a masterpiece and Isaac is his muse. I cannot get over how much I loved this story and the feelings it evoked.✨
Absolutely stunning in it's intimacy, honesty and the bubble covering everything in a sheen of romance and friggin poetry. I've read 18th &19th century romance and found it cheezy at times, but never have I ever enjoyed the poetry spoken and applied in a book better than this. Trevor is a masterpiece and Isaac is his muse. I cannot get over how much I loved this story and the feelings it evoked.✨
April 22, 2026
4.5⭐️
Elite 8 is BACK and we are finally getting its founder, Trevor’s origin story!!! 😍
This story takes place 20 years before current day, and is a college romance between the sweet and spicy Trevor, and his initially hostile but very fun partner Isaac.
Isaac is initially very miffed that Trevor is sitting at his regular table at the university library, but Trevor’s poetic kindness soon cracks Isaac’s shell, and their love story is absolutely perfect.
This book has:
-adorable meet-cute
-university setting
-supportive friends
-a big, tattooed, aspiring corn star with a heart of gold & his fiery and slightly guarded poetic inspiration
-origin story fun!
-some tough family issues (but also some really sweet moments)
-size difference (major)
-an MC that likes to watch (on his terms)
And again, Emmy Sanders has written a fantastic story that had me just adoring the characters. I don’t know how she comes up with these sweet and fun scenarios for her love stories. They never feel recycled, always authentic. Bruiser was a fantastic book and I’m so excited for the next one.
This series is SERIOUSLY good. And if you haven’t started it yet, what are you doing???!
Get your hands on Bruiser on April 30!
Elite 8 is BACK and we are finally getting its founder, Trevor’s origin story!!! 😍
This story takes place 20 years before current day, and is a college romance between the sweet and spicy Trevor, and his initially hostile but very fun partner Isaac.
Isaac is initially very miffed that Trevor is sitting at his regular table at the university library, but Trevor’s poetic kindness soon cracks Isaac’s shell, and their love story is absolutely perfect.
This book has:
-adorable meet-cute
-university setting
-supportive friends
-a big, tattooed, aspiring corn star with a heart of gold & his fiery and slightly guarded poetic inspiration
-origin story fun!
-some tough family issues (but also some really sweet moments)
-size difference (major)
-an MC that likes to watch (on his terms)
And again, Emmy Sanders has written a fantastic story that had me just adoring the characters. I don’t know how she comes up with these sweet and fun scenarios for her love stories. They never feel recycled, always authentic. Bruiser was a fantastic book and I’m so excited for the next one.
This series is SERIOUSLY good. And if you haven’t started it yet, what are you doing???!
Get your hands on Bruiser on April 30!
Did Not Finish
April 26, 2026DNF at 44%. I don't know if I've ever DNFed an Emmy Sanders book before - at least, not a straightforward, contemporary romance of hers. Sanders is a proficient writer, technically speaking; I think the only criticism I have of her actual writing is that she uses the word "huff" too much (65 times in "Bruiser" according to my Kindle's search function, lol). I just couldn't connect to the story or characters here at all. Not yucking anyone's yum! My yum just lies elsewhere.
April 15, 2026
♾️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
ALL THE FREAKIN STARTS FOR ISAAC AND TREVOR. My GOD this book was beautiful. Absolutely stunning. Emotional. Heartfelt. And just.. stunning. My new favourite of the series.. hands down. These two are THE DEFINITION OF TRUE LOVE. FULL RTC when I get my thoughts together. Wow. I had a good cry at the ending there.. just so many emotions came spilling out.
🌶️🌶️🌶️
ALL THE FREAKIN STARTS FOR ISAAC AND TREVOR. My GOD this book was beautiful. Absolutely stunning. Emotional. Heartfelt. And just.. stunning. My new favourite of the series.. hands down. These two are THE DEFINITION OF TRUE LOVE. FULL RTC when I get my thoughts together. Wow. I had a good cry at the ending there.. just so many emotions came spilling out.
May 10, 2026
₊˚⊹ | 5 ★ read .ᐟ
I’m saying it again and I stand by it with my whole being: no one delivers soft, sweet and gentle romance with the most beautiful HEAs the way Emmy Sanders does and I’ll forever be obsessed with everything she writes. Counting on her to make your days better and turn your poor heart into mush. 😩🥹
I’m saying it again and I stand by it with my whole being: no one delivers soft, sweet and gentle romance with the most beautiful HEAs the way Emmy Sanders does and I’ll forever be obsessed with everything she writes. Counting on her to make your days better and turn your poor heart into mush. 😩🥹
May 8, 2026
The beginning is promising but it turns into a shallow insta-love way too fast. There is almost no real plot to keep me engaged and the whole thing is just incredibly boring. Dead time 30%.
May 1, 2026
Shut the front door this was AMAZING! The easiest 5 Stars I've given to a book in months, and I absolutely will be listening to the audiobook once it drops!
*I received an arc copy of this book, all opinions are my own*
Even though this is a prequel to the first 6 books in the Elite 8 Studios series, reading it was like a warm hug & returning to a world filled with wonderful characters, even though the ones we know do not appear. Though I did love the easter eggs of other future staff members of the Studio.
This romance was so sweet, filled with fun banter & spice, but damn Trevor is hella swoony & such a romantic at heart. Lately I have been struggling to find books where the main characters actually spend a lot of time on page talking to each other and having conversations, and this book finally scratched that itch!
I also loved the friends/side characters too!
*I received an arc copy of this book, all opinions are my own*
Even though this is a prequel to the first 6 books in the Elite 8 Studios series, reading it was like a warm hug & returning to a world filled with wonderful characters, even though the ones we know do not appear. Though I did love the easter eggs of other future staff members of the Studio.
This romance was so sweet, filled with fun banter & spice, but damn Trevor is hella swoony & such a romantic at heart. Lately I have been struggling to find books where the main characters actually spend a lot of time on page talking to each other and having conversations, and this book finally scratched that itch!
I also loved the friends/side characters too!
Review of advance copy received from Author
4 stars
Who would have known that Bruiser was so sweet! It was a very very pleasant surprise!
We had a glimpse of him and his husband during their vows renewal in Tink and now we have the full story.
Trevor is a college student who's majoring in business but has a passion for poetry and literature. At first glance he's quite intimidating, since he's big and heavily tattooed, but he's actually a nice guy, very close to his uncle, focused on his studies, determined to set up his own business to live decently. He also handles a couple of jobs to pay for his things and help his uncle with groceries.
Isaac gives black cat vibes, he's snarky and a bit of a brat, definitely the right man for Trevor who instantly charmed by him during their meet cute at the library. I loved that Isaac really wanted to resist Trevor but also that Trevor made his walls crumble and always kept him safe, especially in exploring his kinky side.
What prevented me from giving a higher rate:
I don't like cuckolding. At. All. So when I realised that that was Isaac's kink, I felt sadly disappointed.
Moreover, I was expecting more from the epilogue, like a more solid presence of the guys who work at Elite 8.
I liked Trevor's uncle very much: he took him in without a second thought and raised him well. I loved their conversations over dinner and how they respected and loved each other.
I also loved Isaac besties, Lumi (finally a female best friend who doesn't meddle or push but who actually helps when it's needed) and Todd, wonderful and adorably naive Todd.
We know that they all stay in touch with Isaac over the years, but I definitely need more.
Time to start begging Emmy Sanders to give Todd his own story. Maybe she'll give it to us like she did with Brad (Himbo/10 Ways To Accidentally Fall In Love)!
I received an ARC of this book from the author and this is my honest review.
Who would have known that Bruiser was so sweet! It was a very very pleasant surprise!
We had a glimpse of him and his husband during their vows renewal in Tink and now we have the full story.
Trevor is a college student who's majoring in business but has a passion for poetry and literature. At first glance he's quite intimidating, since he's big and heavily tattooed, but he's actually a nice guy, very close to his uncle, focused on his studies, determined to set up his own business to live decently. He also handles a couple of jobs to pay for his things and help his uncle with groceries.
Isaac gives black cat vibes, he's snarky and a bit of a brat, definitely the right man for Trevor who instantly charmed by him during their meet cute at the library. I loved that Isaac really wanted to resist Trevor but also that Trevor made his walls crumble and always kept him safe, especially in exploring his kinky side.
What prevented me from giving a higher rate:
I don't like cuckolding. At. All. So when I realised that that was Isaac's kink, I felt sadly disappointed.
Moreover, I was expecting more from the epilogue, like a more solid presence of the guys who work at Elite 8.
I liked Trevor's uncle very much: he took him in without a second thought and raised him well. I loved their conversations over dinner and how they respected and loved each other.
I also loved Isaac besties, Lumi (finally a female best friend who doesn't meddle or push but who actually helps when it's needed) and Todd, wonderful and adorably naive Todd.
We know that they all stay in touch with Isaac over the years, but I definitely need more.
Time to start begging Emmy Sanders to give Todd his own story. Maybe she'll give it to us like she did with Brad (Himbo/10 Ways To Accidentally Fall In Love)!
I received an ARC of this book from the author and this is my honest review.
April 30, 2026
I have to admit, I kinda struggled with this one. This is very much an insta love without them actually saying it, and as you all know that tropes just not my jam. With that being said there was still a lot of stuff I did love about this book!
✨Trevor- absolutely loved him! I loved the contradiction of what people saw him as vs who he really was, a great lesson of you can’t judge a book by its cover. This man is so swoony and a giant teddy bear he can talk his beautiful poetry to me anytime 😮💨
✨Lumi & Todd - the bestest of friends, the comedic relief. I would LOVE to see Todd get a book I’m so intrigued by him 😉
✨the spice - loved the spice 🔥 the voyeurism was 😮💨
✨Isaac’s mom- his relationship with his mom and how things transpire for them 🥹
✨the epilogue- absolutely loved the ending and seeing some of my favs again and seeing what’s up next!
Despite the insta love feel I really loved seeing where Elite 8 started from and to see Trevor and Isaac's story from the beginning to their HEA. I want to thank Emmy for the opportunity to read and review this book.
✨Trevor- absolutely loved him! I loved the contradiction of what people saw him as vs who he really was, a great lesson of you can’t judge a book by its cover. This man is so swoony and a giant teddy bear he can talk his beautiful poetry to me anytime 😮💨
✨Lumi & Todd - the bestest of friends, the comedic relief. I would LOVE to see Todd get a book I’m so intrigued by him 😉
✨the spice - loved the spice 🔥 the voyeurism was 😮💨
✨Isaac’s mom- his relationship with his mom and how things transpire for them 🥹
✨the epilogue- absolutely loved the ending and seeing some of my favs again and seeing what’s up next!
Despite the insta love feel I really loved seeing where Elite 8 started from and to see Trevor and Isaac's story from the beginning to their HEA. I want to thank Emmy for the opportunity to read and review this book.
May 2, 2026
i absolutely loved this!!! i was so curious about bruiser and i loved reading about him and how elite 8 studio came to be.
my only complaint is that this is set 20 years ago but it definitely didn’t feel like that
my only complaint is that this is set 20 years ago but it definitely didn’t feel like that
May 3, 2026
Rating 5⭐️
Emotion 1🥹
Spice 3🌶️
I’ve always been curious about Trevor and his story, so finally getting it was everything.
Bruiser was such a great addition to Emmy’s Elite 8 series. I loved going back to the beginning and seeing where it all started. The fact that it’s set twenty years ago made it feel a bit nostalgic too… it was nice being reminded of what things were like back then. It was in someways a simpler time without technology taking over every aspect of our day to day lives.
Trevor and Isaac had such intense chemistry from their very first meeting, and I really loved watching their relationship grow and develop. Trevor was such a romantic at heart, and I was just melting when he was reciting poetry to Isaac.
I only wish we got more of the other characters instead of just small cameos in the epilogue. I mean I get it, they weren’t around in the time period the book was set, but I kind of hoped we’d get to see more of the studio present day with Trevor and Isaac behind the scenes.
If you loved Elite 8, Bruiser is definitely one to add to your TBR. And I mean… after much guessing on Isaac’s part we finally find out just how big this man is and why the name Bruiser was well and truly earned 🫣
I can’t wait for Jerome & Nathaniel’s story!!
Emotion 1🥹
Spice 3🌶️
I’ve always been curious about Trevor and his story, so finally getting it was everything.
Bruiser was such a great addition to Emmy’s Elite 8 series. I loved going back to the beginning and seeing where it all started. The fact that it’s set twenty years ago made it feel a bit nostalgic too… it was nice being reminded of what things were like back then. It was in someways a simpler time without technology taking over every aspect of our day to day lives.
Trevor and Isaac had such intense chemistry from their very first meeting, and I really loved watching their relationship grow and develop. Trevor was such a romantic at heart, and I was just melting when he was reciting poetry to Isaac.
I only wish we got more of the other characters instead of just small cameos in the epilogue. I mean I get it, they weren’t around in the time period the book was set, but I kind of hoped we’d get to see more of the studio present day with Trevor and Isaac behind the scenes.
If you loved Elite 8, Bruiser is definitely one to add to your TBR. And I mean… after much guessing on Isaac’s part we finally find out just how big this man is and why the name Bruiser was well and truly earned 🫣
I can’t wait for Jerome & Nathaniel’s story!!
May 1, 2026
BRUISER was a damned delight.
Trevor and Isaac are made for each other. Their chemistry is instant, and they are both so down bad for each other from the start.
The cuckholding aspect of their relationship was interesting and it also seemed to work for them.
This book was hot from the beginning with all of Trevor's requests. And when the two of them were together? Perfection. The brattiness was perfect and Trevor always talking Isaac through it? H-O-T
Found family plays a big part of this story. Watching the pieces of Elite 8 fall into place was perfection. Bill! Jerome! I see you guys.
I love that we get Bruiser's story at the end. Everything feels more Easter eggy, more like a gift.
Trevor really was the most romantic. Isaac deserves the whole world. I absolutely loved these two!!!
Trevor and Isaac are made for each other. Their chemistry is instant, and they are both so down bad for each other from the start.
The cuckholding aspect of their relationship was interesting and it also seemed to work for them.
This book was hot from the beginning with all of Trevor's requests. And when the two of them were together? Perfection. The brattiness was perfect and Trevor always talking Isaac through it? H-O-T
Found family plays a big part of this story. Watching the pieces of Elite 8 fall into place was perfection. Bill! Jerome! I see you guys.
I love that we get Bruiser's story at the end. Everything feels more Easter eggy, more like a gift.
Trevor really was the most romantic. Isaac deserves the whole world. I absolutely loved these two!!!
Read
May 13, 2026⭐️ Prequel Story
⭐️ Library Meet Cute
⭐️ College 20 yrs ago
⭐️ Brat x Sunshine
🌶️ 10.5” 🍆💦
🌶️ Amatuer 🌽Star
🌶️ Voyeurism
🌶️ Cückhölding
Love love LOVED this!!!
This was classic Emmy Sanders sweetness, with one of my favorite kinks we rarely see!
Trevor and Isaac were EVERYTHING.
I have way too many highlights from this one 😂❤️
⭐️ Library Meet Cute
⭐️ College 20 yrs ago
⭐️ Brat x Sunshine
🌶️ 10.5” 🍆💦
🌶️ Amatuer 🌽Star
🌶️ Voyeurism
🌶️ Cückhölding
Love love LOVED this!!!
This was classic Emmy Sanders sweetness, with one of my favorite kinks we rarely see!
Trevor and Isaac were EVERYTHING.
I have way too many highlights from this one 😂❤️
May 16, 2026
Safe to say that I loved this! In my usual chaotic fashion I jumped into this series on book 7 and I can't say I regret it. I knew enough about the series that I could follow along and the book just made me more curious to read the other books in the series.
I was hooked from the first page and just wanted to keep reading so I could see what happens next. I loved Isaac and Trevor's meet cute! Their banter and back and forth was top notch. Their chemistry was great and their dynamic was even better. I loved how Trevor's job and business idea looked for them in real life and I felt like it was really natural for them. I loved poetic discussions and heartfelt moments. I loved how smitten Trevor was from the start and how patiently he waited for Isaac to open up to him and feel safe with him. Their relationship was so loving and nurturing while also giving them the freedom to live life in a way that made sense to them. I loved how romantic Trevor was, while Isaac was a prickly little marshmallow.
I loved their little found family with Lumi and Todd. I laughed out loud at their shenanigans, especially Todd's disappearing act.
This was a fun, pretty lighthearted read that made me laugh, swoon and kick my legs constantly. A great time was had reading this book. I loved how romantic it was while also letting them explore what worked for them and also trying to find their way in life.
I was hooked from the first page and just wanted to keep reading so I could see what happens next. I loved Isaac and Trevor's meet cute! Their banter and back and forth was top notch. Their chemistry was great and their dynamic was even better. I loved how Trevor's job and business idea looked for them in real life and I felt like it was really natural for them. I loved poetic discussions and heartfelt moments. I loved how smitten Trevor was from the start and how patiently he waited for Isaac to open up to him and feel safe with him. Their relationship was so loving and nurturing while also giving them the freedom to live life in a way that made sense to them. I loved how romantic Trevor was, while Isaac was a prickly little marshmallow.
I loved their little found family with Lumi and Todd. I laughed out loud at their shenanigans, especially Todd's disappearing act.
This was a fun, pretty lighthearted read that made me laugh, swoon and kick my legs constantly. A great time was had reading this book. I loved how romantic it was while also letting them explore what worked for them and also trying to find their way in life.
May 15, 2026
emmy has me getting emotional over this one lol.
trevor was more than i expected. he was perfect. this entire series is so pro sex work but this one… this was a great book that showcases sex work esp sex work when someone has a partner.
it was also unbelievably HOT
trevor was the perfect book bf
my fav of the series so far which is shocking because of how much i loved malibu
mm romance
size difference
🌽 ⭐️
college romance
the birth of elite 8 studios
a 10.75 in 🍆 lol……
voyeurism & cuckold
5 ⭐️ 3 🌶️
trevor was more than i expected. he was perfect. this entire series is so pro sex work but this one… this was a great book that showcases sex work esp sex work when someone has a partner.
it was also unbelievably HOT
trevor was the perfect book bf
my fav of the series so far which is shocking because of how much i loved malibu
mm romance
size difference
🌽 ⭐️
college romance
the birth of elite 8 studios
a 10.75 in 🍆 lol……
voyeurism & cuckold
5 ⭐️ 3 🌶️
May 22, 2026
I LOVED this. Trevor and Isaac were sooooo sweet and romantic.
Isaac is definitely a burnt marshmallow. Grouchy but a secret softie. Trevor is a big guy with tattoos but a total teddy bear.
Both are supremely romantic with their poetic words, I absolutely adore them both.
(Todd was such a cutie - did we ever see more of him???)
Isaac is definitely a burnt marshmallow. Grouchy but a secret softie. Trevor is a big guy with tattoos but a total teddy bear.
Both are supremely romantic with their poetic words, I absolutely adore them both.
(Todd was such a cutie - did we ever see more of him???)
May 1, 2026
3.5 stars - This has been one of my favorite queer romance series, and I've given almost every previous book over 4 stars, the last one I read in the series before this was 5 stars, so I had very high hopes going in to this.
I did enjoy myself on the whole, but there were some things that kept me from immersing myself fully in the story. This is billed as a prequel, but I think a tiny bit of a refresher/introduction wouldn't have gone amiss. I didn't re-read all six books before this, but did have to search those books for Bruiser/Trevor to remind myself of a few salient points.
I also didn't really get the sense that we were 20 years in the past until very near the end, when we get .
The poetry quoting was somewhat romantic, but also possibly overused? I don't know, it just felt like we needed a bit more explication of that aspect of Trevor's personality. It felt like we got more of Isaac's backstory and understanding of his personality. I also found the discussion/speculation about Trevor's It also seemed very reductive, ironically.
I did very much enjoy seeing how steadfast Trevor was and their was one of the better parts of the book for me. Their relationship was very sweet, and I also liked Trevor
So, lots to like here, while some things just didn't resonate with me personally. Looking at the last few books I have read or tried, I think I have to admit that Sanders is not a auto-request or read on the first day author for me anymore. It's always a little sad when that happens, but it was a great streak for a while there and, clearly, most readers are appreciating the work.
Thanks to GRR for the review copy!
I did enjoy myself on the whole, but there were some things that kept me from immersing myself fully in the story. This is billed as a prequel, but I think a tiny bit of a refresher/introduction wouldn't have gone amiss. I didn't re-read all six books before this, but did have to search those books for Bruiser/Trevor to remind myself of a few salient points.
I also didn't really get the sense that we were 20 years in the past until very near the end, when we get .
The poetry quoting was somewhat romantic, but also possibly overused? I don't know, it just felt like we needed a bit more explication of that aspect of Trevor's personality. It felt like we got more of Isaac's backstory and understanding of his personality. I also found the discussion/speculation about Trevor's It also seemed very reductive, ironically.
I did very much enjoy seeing how steadfast Trevor was and their was one of the better parts of the book for me. Their relationship was very sweet, and I also liked Trevor
So, lots to like here, while some things just didn't resonate with me personally. Looking at the last few books I have read or tried, I think I have to admit that Sanders is not a auto-request or read on the first day author for me anymore. It's always a little sad when that happens, but it was a great streak for a while there and, clearly, most readers are appreciating the work.
Thanks to GRR for the review copy!
May 7, 2026
Trevor and Isaac are just so adorable!
May 16, 2026
I loved this so much! I'm so happy we got to see the beginning of the studio and everything. I hope we get Jerome and Nathaniel's story soon!!
April 22, 2026
A book about the beginning of the Elite 8 empire. Who would have thought it all started with a couple of college kids who wanted to get a bit kinky. This book was fun from start to finish. Plenty of spice and some really loveable characters.
- College Students
- English Major x Amateur Porn Star
- Size Difference
- Tatted MMC
- Voyeurism/Cuckholding
Thank-you to the author for providing an ARC for me to review. This review is my honest opinion.
- College Students
- English Major x Amateur Porn Star
- Size Difference
- Tatted MMC
- Voyeurism/Cuckholding
Thank-you to the author for providing an ARC for me to review. This review is my honest opinion.
May 8, 2026
4.5/5. This was freaking precious. Isaac is a delight. He truly is a burnt marshmallow. He can be prickly, but it's truly just passion. He's truly so sweet and loving. And Trevor? He's perfect. He's such a self assured softie. He's so confident, yet so thoughtful.
Seeing these two meet in the library and instantly hit it off was so fun. I loved watching them grow together. Their story was adorable, as were they. It feels like they were meant for each other in more ways than one. Everything between them just aligned. I love how intense Trevor is about Isaac. If Isaac wants anything, Trevor will make it happen, no questions asked. It was also great to watch Isaac grow more confident and less self conscious regarding his personality and lovability (thanks to his horrible dad).
The side characters were wonderful, too. Todd and Lumi were perfect. And Camden and Bill were so fun. I love meeting Bill and Jerome like that, too. It was so clever and fun. I adored learning more about these characters we've seen throughout the series. Now I want to reread them all for glimpses of everyone.
I thought the side stories regarding Isaac's mom and Trevor's class were interesting, too. I cried multiple times, mostly around Isaac's mom and at the end when we see everyone together. And I laughed out loud a few times, too. It was really sweet to go back in time and see the beginning of this series and Elite 8 as a whole. I can't even explain why I'm so in my feels about it, but I'm obsessed. This was a brilliant move.
Now, I'm off to reread them all and cry because it's over.
Notes: 2/5 spice levels, sex work mc, college, freckles, poetry, family trauma (dad), voyeurism, bouncer, tattoos, found family, supportive mom
Seeing these two meet in the library and instantly hit it off was so fun. I loved watching them grow together. Their story was adorable, as were they. It feels like they were meant for each other in more ways than one. Everything between them just aligned. I love how intense Trevor is about Isaac. If Isaac wants anything, Trevor will make it happen, no questions asked. It was also great to watch Isaac grow more confident and less self conscious regarding his personality and lovability (thanks to his horrible dad).
The side characters were wonderful, too. Todd and Lumi were perfect. And Camden and Bill were so fun. I love meeting Bill and Jerome like that, too. It was so clever and fun. I adored learning more about these characters we've seen throughout the series. Now I want to reread them all for glimpses of everyone.
I thought the side stories regarding Isaac's mom and Trevor's class were interesting, too. I cried multiple times, mostly around Isaac's mom and at the end when we see everyone together. And I laughed out loud a few times, too. It was really sweet to go back in time and see the beginning of this series and Elite 8 as a whole. I can't even explain why I'm so in my feels about it, but I'm obsessed. This was a brilliant move.
Now, I'm off to reread them all and cry because it's over.
Notes: 2/5 spice levels, sex work mc, college, freckles, poetry, family trauma (dad), voyeurism, bouncer, tattoos, found family, supportive mom
May 26, 2026
Bruiser - Emmy Sanders
♾️/5✨🌟
* SPOILERS *
I had such a good time with this book. I was able to receive this book but when I saw that the audiobook was coming out pretty quickly, I just knew I had to have a good time and ohmygod, I had such an amazing time with Trevor and Isaac.
I loved how we got to see Trevor’s story from when they were younger because it was so nice to see how Trevor built everything.
The moment that these two meet in the library when everything has gone wrong for Isaac was just everything for me. Trevor didn’t even know him and even went and got him a fresh cup of coffee.
I really loved how Isaac supported Trevor from the beginning when he found out what he did for extra income. I complete died laughing the way that Isaac found o it, though. Epic moment.
Even with Trevor’s job, these two were just stinking adorable. Trevor took care of his little brat and I was here for every moment.
Isaac’s father - all I’m going to say what a sad excuse for a human being. His mother, though - just a sweetheart. I really loved how Trevor voiced his opinion when he noticed certain things.
The he found family from Trevor’s uncle to Isaac’s amazing friends was simply amazing.
I cannot wait for the last book and I have a feeling I know who it is. I think we’ve all been waiting for this story for a hot minute.
If you’ve been wanting to get into Emmy’s books, this whole series is going to make you fall in love with each of the MC’s because how can you not?! Also, a tatted man is one of my weakness in books but he as a heart of gold that also comes up with the cutest name for Isaac. Swoon my heart.
I received a copy of this book and this is my honest review.
♾️/5✨🌟
* SPOILERS *
I had such a good time with this book. I was able to receive this book but when I saw that the audiobook was coming out pretty quickly, I just knew I had to have a good time and ohmygod, I had such an amazing time with Trevor and Isaac.
I loved how we got to see Trevor’s story from when they were younger because it was so nice to see how Trevor built everything.
The moment that these two meet in the library when everything has gone wrong for Isaac was just everything for me. Trevor didn’t even know him and even went and got him a fresh cup of coffee.
I really loved how Isaac supported Trevor from the beginning when he found out what he did for extra income. I complete died laughing the way that Isaac found o it, though. Epic moment.
Even with Trevor’s job, these two were just stinking adorable. Trevor took care of his little brat and I was here for every moment.
Isaac’s father - all I’m going to say what a sad excuse for a human being. His mother, though - just a sweetheart. I really loved how Trevor voiced his opinion when he noticed certain things.
The he found family from Trevor’s uncle to Isaac’s amazing friends was simply amazing.
I cannot wait for the last book and I have a feeling I know who it is. I think we’ve all been waiting for this story for a hot minute.
If you’ve been wanting to get into Emmy’s books, this whole series is going to make you fall in love with each of the MC’s because how can you not?! Also, a tatted man is one of my weakness in books but he as a heart of gold that also comes up with the cutest name for Isaac. Swoon my heart.
I received a copy of this book and this is my honest review.
May 3, 2026
I think I’ll never read an Emmy Sanders book that I don’t love. It’s just a matter of how much. This series is a favourite of mine and an absolute comfort read. We meet Trevor the man behind Elite 8 when he is in university. And we meet his other half Isaac an English major. Now when I say this is romance at its finest I mean it 💯 I loved Trevor and his calmness, how confident he is. He gave me the impression of what a strong and caring man looks like. It’s funny but in my head was the song Whatta man, by Salt and Peppa 😅 anyway. And I loved Isaac too, his character if kinda the opposite to Trevor. He is more frantic, more insecure (f u Isaac’s dad) To me he was endearing. His friends were the absolute best. Great side characters. Great dialogue, great storytelling simply. Emmy Sanders always creates emotional and deep moments and it’s brilliant. I can’t wait to read the last one of this amazing series 🌸
May 5, 2026
While most of Emmy‘s books are really working for me, this had some issues. In general, the story was sweet and I admire Emmy for her talent to give me (or readers in general) an understanding about k!nks. She made me (as an ace person) understand the appeal of daddy k!nk through Teddy, and this book made me get the appeal of cuckolding/sharing a partner. I personally still don‘t share that experience obviously, nor am I interested in it, but it made sense for the characters and felt realistic. My biggest issue probably was the insta love, it‘s generally not something I love, but the book lost speed due to them not really having many issues to be resolved and at around 50% I really had problems being interested enough in the rest of the story to continue. Also, the timeline was messed up, it‘s set 20 years before the rest of the Elite 8 books, and while we don‘t have a fixed date for those (so the other books could theoretically take place in 2040 and Bruiser in 2020 or whatever), there were hints about the time being what‘s expected, so like early 2000‘s - them using cassettes for listening to music for example. But on the other hand, there‘s phones with map apps (and therefore mobile internet)? That doesn‘t add up. Also calling libraries obsolete because of the internet twenty years ago felt weird, because libraries aren‘t even obsolete now. This timeline thing should have been polished and I‘m also honestly a bit disappointed the book was this timeless, because I was looking forward to a book set in the early 2000‘s and diving into the vibe (Saxon James did this really well with Royal Scoundrel for example and I expected something similar as a prequel of a series I really liked).
To be honest, the story arch about Isaac‘s mom (not spoiling anything) felt a bit unnecessary and only to add more drama - while the story arch about his dad and that one scene was cool.
I also really struggled with the poetic approach, with both MCs sharing a love for poetry and oftentimes speaking very poetically, while this made for some sweet moments, it was borderline cringe in the rest of the book.
I enjoyed getting a look into the founding of Elite 8 studios and also liked the characters, but it had more flaws than I was expecting from an Emmy Sanders book.
To be honest, the story arch about Isaac‘s mom (not spoiling anything) felt a bit unnecessary and only to add more drama - while the story arch about his dad and that one scene was cool.
I also really struggled with the poetic approach, with both MCs sharing a love for poetry and oftentimes speaking very poetically, while this made for some sweet moments, it was borderline cringe in the rest of the book.
I enjoyed getting a look into the founding of Elite 8 studios and also liked the characters, but it had more flaws than I was expecting from an Emmy Sanders book.
April 16, 2026
The original and founder of Elite 8, Trevor, aka Bruiser, who is in almost every other book in this series finally gets his story. Twenty years ago, Isaac and Trevor meet in college and if poetry and sparks fly well you just have to read this one. In every book of elite eight previous characters have always talked about how much of a sweetheart bruiser is we get invited to their wedding in tank but we don’t discover that he is the founder and owner of elite eight until the last book, Felix, getting to see the founding of elite eight the creation and getting to discover the relationship of him and Isaac, as well as the friendship between Isaac Todd and Lumi shows how well this author writes not only love, but friendship it’s where they absolutely shine friendship in this book is one of the outstanding aspects of the story.
We know how the story ends we know they have an HEA we know they’re married if you’ve read the previous books again we saw them married in Tink. We know they’re still together in Felix, but to discover how and why their relationship works was so passionate and to see the love that these two men create most beautiful
I absolutely love this series. I wish it never ended but again all good things must come to an end and to get the founder and creator of elite eight bruiser and his Red just makes it that much sweeter
We know how the story ends we know they have an HEA we know they’re married if you’ve read the previous books again we saw them married in Tink. We know they’re still together in Felix, but to discover how and why their relationship works was so passionate and to see the love that these two men create most beautiful
I absolutely love this series. I wish it never ended but again all good things must come to an end and to get the founder and creator of elite eight bruiser and his Red just makes it that much sweeter
April 30, 2026
Fantastic!
Loved, loved, loved everything about this book! Trevor and Isaac were just fabulous together, from their first meeting in the library to their epilogue 20 years later, they gave me all the butterflies and swoony feelings. The honesty, and direct communication between them was so refreshing as they fell in love and developed this unwavering trust between them. Todd and Lumi were a treat and the way the story was told, taking us all the way back to how Elite 8 came to be, was just so very well done. Loved every minute of it, highly recommended!
Loved, loved, loved everything about this book! Trevor and Isaac were just fabulous together, from their first meeting in the library to their epilogue 20 years later, they gave me all the butterflies and swoony feelings. The honesty, and direct communication between them was so refreshing as they fell in love and developed this unwavering trust between them. Todd and Lumi were a treat and the way the story was told, taking us all the way back to how Elite 8 came to be, was just so very well done. Loved every minute of it, highly recommended!
May 1, 2026
I adored Trevor and Issac. Their relationship was something special. The whole story had me swooning. Trevor was so romantic and Issac was so special, they absolutely were made for each other. What a special story and I'm so happy we were taken back to where the story all began.
May 7, 2026
Oh how I love these two
May 9, 2026
I NEEDED THIS SO DAMN HARD!!!
This was everything, now all I need is a book for Todd.
This was everything, now all I need is a book for Todd.
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