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Cold War #1-2
Cold War
Enemies on the ice. Forbidden lovers in the locker room.
American figure skater Dev despises his Russian rival. Arrogant, aloof Mikhail is like a machine on the ice—barely ever making a mistake.
He’s also sexy as hell, which makes him even more infuriating.
Dev and his pairs partner have been working their whole lives to become Olympic champions. He needs to keep his head in the game.
The very worst thing he could do is have explosive hate sex with Mikhail in the locker room after losing to him yet again before the Olympics.
But you know what would be even worse?
Discovering that under Mikhail’s icy exterior, he’s Misha. Passionate and pent-up, he eagerly drops to his knees. His sweet smile makes Dev’s heart sing, and his forbidden kisses are unbearably tempting.
Dev must resist.
But he’s falling in love.
Only one of them can stand atop the podium. To win gold, will they lose their hearts?
Cold War is a gay sports romance from Keira Andrews featuring enemies to lovers, forbidden hookups blooming into a secret romance, light D/s, alpha men in sequins, and of course a happy ending. Previously published as The Winning Edge, this edition contains both novellas: Cold War and Holding the Edge.
American figure skater Dev despises his Russian rival. Arrogant, aloof Mikhail is like a machine on the ice—barely ever making a mistake.
He’s also sexy as hell, which makes him even more infuriating.
Dev and his pairs partner have been working their whole lives to become Olympic champions. He needs to keep his head in the game.
The very worst thing he could do is have explosive hate sex with Mikhail in the locker room after losing to him yet again before the Olympics.
But you know what would be even worse?
Discovering that under Mikhail’s icy exterior, he’s Misha. Passionate and pent-up, he eagerly drops to his knees. His sweet smile makes Dev’s heart sing, and his forbidden kisses are unbearably tempting.
Dev must resist.
But he’s falling in love.
Only one of them can stand atop the podium. To win gold, will they lose their hearts?
Cold War is a gay sports romance from Keira Andrews featuring enemies to lovers, forbidden hookups blooming into a secret romance, light D/s, alpha men in sequins, and of course a happy ending. Previously published as The Winning Edge, this edition contains both novellas: Cold War and Holding the Edge.
215 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 8, 2018
123 people are currently reading
581 people want to read
About the author
Keira Andrews
65 books3,057 followersKeira aims for the perfect mix of character, plot, and heat in her M/M romances. She writes everything from swashbuckling pirates to heartwarming holiday escapism. Her fave tropes are enemies to lovers, age gaps, forced proximity, and passionate virgins. Although she loves delicious angst along the way, Keira guarantees happy endings!
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February 3, 2022FREE at Amazon through Feb 6, 2022!
Amz US: https://amzn.to/3AVFs2M
Universal: https://readerlinks.com/l/2297213
~
My Olympic figure skating romance is now available exclusively at Amazon:
Amazon US: http://amzn.to/2GXu6Pq
Amazon global: http://rxe.me/GJGXPM
This romance takes place at an invented Olympics in Annecy, France, since I didn’t want to tie it to any particular Games. (In this fictional universe, there are no Russian doping violations or team figure skating event.)
In the past few years, a few male figure skaters have come out, with Canada’s Eric Radford being the first to officially come out while still competing. Adam Rippon is another notable out figure skater. There has historically been a surprising amount of homophobia in figure skating, and for my characters Dev and Misha, they are still afraid of going public with their sexuality. Of course as rivals, they certainly never expect to fall in love with each other…
Amz US: https://amzn.to/3AVFs2M
Universal: https://readerlinks.com/l/2297213
~
My Olympic figure skating romance is now available exclusively at Amazon:
Amazon US: http://amzn.to/2GXu6Pq
Amazon global: http://rxe.me/GJGXPM
This romance takes place at an invented Olympics in Annecy, France, since I didn’t want to tie it to any particular Games. (In this fictional universe, there are no Russian doping violations or team figure skating event.)
In the past few years, a few male figure skaters have come out, with Canada’s Eric Radford being the first to officially come out while still competing. Adam Rippon is another notable out figure skater. There has historically been a surprising amount of homophobia in figure skating, and for my characters Dev and Misha, they are still afraid of going public with their sexuality. Of course as rivals, they certainly never expect to fall in love with each other…
February 12, 2018
I’m not a huge fan of ice skating but I AM a huge fan of all things Keira Andrews. Which is how I found myself reading this book. If the blurb sounds familiar, you may have seen or read this before because it’s a new shiny addition of an older story. I’m always grateful when authors bring back older releases; it allows us busy readers the opportunity otherwise missed to catch up. And I’m so happy I caught this fun and fiery enemies to lovers romance with an Olympian twist. With the Winter Olympics underway, this couldn’t have been timed any better.
What's to like: As I said, I’m not well versed with figure skating. I’m glad I wasn’t lost or overwhelmed with the specifics. Andrews paints a beautiful picture with her skaters and I could imagine them gliding and flying across the rink. Speaking of skaters, wow, what a gang. Fierce competitors often have fierce emotional explosions. The feels are in full force here. Mikhail is well-known for his frigid exterior. He’s also one of the best skaters in the world. Winning the Olympics isn’t just about taking home a medal for him, it’s about earning his freedom. The Russian’s won’t tolerate his sexuality, which is his most guarded secret. If he can take home the gold he may be able to slip into the shadows afterwards. Dev has spent most of his life preparing for this moment. The Olympics…a dream come true. He needs to focus and stay on top of his game. When a heated moment between his biggest rival and enemy on the ice takes an unexpected turn, he’s thrown off. Now is not the time for distractions but he can’t deny his powerful attraction to Mikhail. When Mikhail sheds his cold mask and reveals Misha, Dev is a goner. He’s swiftly falling but they must contain their feelings. No one can know. The consequences are too steep, they must be discrete. Can they put on a winning show?
What's to love: Forbidden love always tastes so sweet. Dev and Misha take the cup on forbidden love. Keira’s game is strong! I loved how viciously they hated each other in the beginning and how vehemently they loved each other by the end. Talk about flipping the one-eighty switch! Once Misha settles into his happiness, he shines. I loved how he embraced his new life. His puppy was a dose of pure joy. Both Dev and Misha are extremely close to their skating partners and the girls are polar opposites. However, their influence and spark only added to the story. Mix in their parents and we have the complete package. I adored the skating family as well as their flesh and blood. All of the relationships tie together beautifully. The competivitve drive, the emotional pull and the characters….there’s a lot to love here.
Beware of: Disdain becomes desire. Anger turns into affection. And fears of nonacceptance force them to hide their true feelings.
This book is for: KA groupies (like me) and figure skating fans (unlike me) as well as anyone who enjoys feeling the red-hot blaze from enemies to lovers romance should grab this one quick!
Book UNfunk
What's to like: As I said, I’m not well versed with figure skating. I’m glad I wasn’t lost or overwhelmed with the specifics. Andrews paints a beautiful picture with her skaters and I could imagine them gliding and flying across the rink. Speaking of skaters, wow, what a gang. Fierce competitors often have fierce emotional explosions. The feels are in full force here. Mikhail is well-known for his frigid exterior. He’s also one of the best skaters in the world. Winning the Olympics isn’t just about taking home a medal for him, it’s about earning his freedom. The Russian’s won’t tolerate his sexuality, which is his most guarded secret. If he can take home the gold he may be able to slip into the shadows afterwards. Dev has spent most of his life preparing for this moment. The Olympics…a dream come true. He needs to focus and stay on top of his game. When a heated moment between his biggest rival and enemy on the ice takes an unexpected turn, he’s thrown off. Now is not the time for distractions but he can’t deny his powerful attraction to Mikhail. When Mikhail sheds his cold mask and reveals Misha, Dev is a goner. He’s swiftly falling but they must contain their feelings. No one can know. The consequences are too steep, they must be discrete. Can they put on a winning show?
What's to love: Forbidden love always tastes so sweet. Dev and Misha take the cup on forbidden love. Keira’s game is strong! I loved how viciously they hated each other in the beginning and how vehemently they loved each other by the end. Talk about flipping the one-eighty switch! Once Misha settles into his happiness, he shines. I loved how he embraced his new life. His puppy was a dose of pure joy. Both Dev and Misha are extremely close to their skating partners and the girls are polar opposites. However, their influence and spark only added to the story. Mix in their parents and we have the complete package. I adored the skating family as well as their flesh and blood. All of the relationships tie together beautifully. The competivitve drive, the emotional pull and the characters….there’s a lot to love here.
Beware of: Disdain becomes desire. Anger turns into affection. And fears of nonacceptance force them to hide their true feelings.
This book is for: KA groupies (like me) and figure skating fans (unlike me) as well as anyone who enjoys feeling the red-hot blaze from enemies to lovers romance should grab this one quick!
Book UNfunk
dnf
January 9, 2020I put this on my "languishing in limbo" shelf -- which is intended as a temporary holding place for the books I'm taking a break from, the books I swear I'm going to get back to some day -- let's see, umm, almost 2 years ago.
Time to declare a DNF and move on, do you think? Yeah. Here's the update I made when I put it on that shelf:
"No complaints about it, would recommend it to anyone interested in its setting... But I simply cannot make myself CARE about the trials and tribulations in the lives of professional figure skaters."
My understanding is that the author has a deep familiarity with the world of competitive figure skating. But wowzers, it was boring to read about, because I had no empathy for the sacrifices the athletes' lifestyle demands. I didn't care and couldn't make myself care. And taking a 2-year break didn't change that.
Hopefully this will find its way to its rightful audience. I'm not giving a star rating, because it seems like a clear-cut case of "it's not the book, it's me."
Time to declare a DNF and move on, do you think? Yeah. Here's the update I made when I put it on that shelf:
"No complaints about it, would recommend it to anyone interested in its setting... But I simply cannot make myself CARE about the trials and tribulations in the lives of professional figure skaters."
My understanding is that the author has a deep familiarity with the world of competitive figure skating. But wowzers, it was boring to read about, because I had no empathy for the sacrifices the athletes' lifestyle demands. I didn't care and couldn't make myself care. And taking a 2-year break didn't change that.
Hopefully this will find its way to its rightful audience. I'm not giving a star rating, because it seems like a clear-cut case of "it's not the book, it's me."
February 21, 2018
CAUSING AN ICE MELTING
3.5
I’ve only read one Keira Andrew’s book previously and really liked it, so when I saw there was a figure skating romance being offered up by the author I had to jump on (Yuri on Ice feels anyone). This is also a enemies (rivals) to lovers story. Let’s just say, I don’t understand how they even had ice to skate on because things were hot, hot, hawt!
Dev wants to be a champion on the ice, he wants the gold for him and his partner but theres a team stopping him from achieving his dream and it’s the Russians. The team also has Mikhail Reznikov, colder than the ice he skates on and crazy beautiful. Dev is feeling things he shouldn’t and his eyes should be on the prize and not gloriousity that is Mikhail’s ass. When an angry encounter leads to some mutual getting off, Dev has more to worry about than winning a competition he now has to protect his heart from the cold.
Mikhail is seen as cold and aloof and he’s accepted that. He’s got a job to do and that’s winning gold at the olympics. Its not that he wants to win its that he needs to win at all cost. He has no love for skating anymore, its become a way to keep his family safe to keep himself safe but Dev Avira has come and put a chink in his plan. Their chemistry is molten and Mikhail is putting all that he is in jeopardy but staying away from Dev is impossibly hard. He makes him need!
The book is broken down in two parts and honestly I liked the first part a lot more. It had intensity, excitement, and a taste of the forbidden. Dev and Misha are fighting an attraction that neither of them needs, but the chemistry is so delicious and risks behind it is all so electrifying. I loved their coming together and the apprehension that Dev faces knowing that his ass and mind should be on the ice and not on Misha (easier said than done).
The second part, while alright is not without it's faults. This is where the story hit a plateau for me. There was all this excitement in the first part and the second became a repetitive storyline about why they shouldn’t be together. The sex, sizzling but that dirty talk got me feeling some sort of way. Like some badly produced porn with dialogue, I could not deal. I was all “no more talkie, please no more talkie”. I was all on board for them having their happy ending, but the balance was off and by the end their I was just waiting for it to be over.
Overall, I liked the story. In the beginning I was loving the story, loving the figure skating just loving it all but by the end there it was falling apart for me. The conflict was dragged out and then came together with an anti-climatic reveal. So this one was just an alright read for me, sucks cus I really dig the figure skating.
SideNote- Big applause for representation. It is great to see a person of colour on the cover and also represented in the book.
3.5
I’ve only read one Keira Andrew’s book previously and really liked it, so when I saw there was a figure skating romance being offered up by the author I had to jump on (Yuri on Ice feels anyone). This is also a enemies (rivals) to lovers story. Let’s just say, I don’t understand how they even had ice to skate on because things were hot, hot, hawt!
Dev wants to be a champion on the ice, he wants the gold for him and his partner but theres a team stopping him from achieving his dream and it’s the Russians. The team also has Mikhail Reznikov, colder than the ice he skates on and crazy beautiful. Dev is feeling things he shouldn’t and his eyes should be on the prize and not gloriousity that is Mikhail’s ass. When an angry encounter leads to some mutual getting off, Dev has more to worry about than winning a competition he now has to protect his heart from the cold.
Mikhail is seen as cold and aloof and he’s accepted that. He’s got a job to do and that’s winning gold at the olympics. Its not that he wants to win its that he needs to win at all cost. He has no love for skating anymore, its become a way to keep his family safe to keep himself safe but Dev Avira has come and put a chink in his plan. Their chemistry is molten and Mikhail is putting all that he is in jeopardy but staying away from Dev is impossibly hard. He makes him need!
The book is broken down in two parts and honestly I liked the first part a lot more. It had intensity, excitement, and a taste of the forbidden. Dev and Misha are fighting an attraction that neither of them needs, but the chemistry is so delicious and risks behind it is all so electrifying. I loved their coming together and the apprehension that Dev faces knowing that his ass and mind should be on the ice and not on Misha (easier said than done).
The second part, while alright is not without it's faults. This is where the story hit a plateau for me. There was all this excitement in the first part and the second became a repetitive storyline about why they shouldn’t be together. The sex, sizzling but that dirty talk got me feeling some sort of way. Like some badly produced porn with dialogue, I could not deal. I was all “no more talkie, please no more talkie”. I was all on board for them having their happy ending, but the balance was off and by the end their I was just waiting for it to be over.
Overall, I liked the story. In the beginning I was loving the story, loving the figure skating just loving it all but by the end there it was falling apart for me. The conflict was dragged out and then came together with an anti-climatic reveal. So this one was just an alright read for me, sucks cus I really dig the figure skating.
SideNote- Big applause for representation. It is great to see a person of colour on the cover and also represented in the book.
February 11, 2018
*3,5 stars*
Keira Andrews is a writer who has never disappointed me. And The Winning Edge is definitely a good read.
'Enemies to lovers' always intrigues me, and the sparks flying between Dev and Mikhail at the beginning are pretty awesome. It is a shame that their animosity fizzles out pretty quickly. I could have easily done with a bigger helping!
Although I enjoyed the chemistry between the two men and the way their relationship unfolds, I missed something, I can't put my finger on. Maybe a bit more angst? More detail about how Dev comes to the conclusion to be less afraid of coming out? Less convenience in the plot in the later part of the book?
Hmm, I'm not sure, but for some reason this didn't grab me as much as other books by this fabulous author.
Saying that, it is very well written and I'm certain that other readers will have no niggles whatsoever!
Keira Andrews is a writer who has never disappointed me. And The Winning Edge is definitely a good read.
'Enemies to lovers' always intrigues me, and the sparks flying between Dev and Mikhail at the beginning are pretty awesome. It is a shame that their animosity fizzles out pretty quickly. I could have easily done with a bigger helping!
Although I enjoyed the chemistry between the two men and the way their relationship unfolds, I missed something, I can't put my finger on. Maybe a bit more angst? More detail about how Dev comes to the conclusion to be less afraid of coming out? Less convenience in the plot in the later part of the book?
Hmm, I'm not sure, but for some reason this didn't grab me as much as other books by this fabulous author.
Saying that, it is very well written and I'm certain that other readers will have no niggles whatsoever!
May 31, 2022
What a lovely performance in the audio edition by Tristan James.
Keira Andrews definitely doesn't skimp on the erotica in Cold War. The sex scenes are plentiful and scorching hot! There's some enjoyable pairs ice skating scenes too. A good story.
Keira Andrews definitely doesn't skimp on the erotica in Cold War. The sex scenes are plentiful and scorching hot! There's some enjoyable pairs ice skating scenes too. A good story.
January 27, 2018
*** 3.5 Stars ***
This content was previously released as the Cold War series. I gave Cold War 4 stars and Holding the Edge 3 stars, so I've split the difference here.
To see my brief review of Holding the Edge, click HERE.
This content was previously released as the Cold War series. I gave Cold War 4 stars and Holding the Edge 3 stars, so I've split the difference here.
To see my brief review of Holding the Edge, click HERE.
March 10, 2022
It pains me to give a book by Keira Andrews "only" 3 stars, but this just wasn't the book for me.
Maybe because it's not one book, but two shorter novellas, and that's why the plot wasn't flowing smoothly. It's the story of Dev, an American figure skater with Indian roots, and Mikhail, his biggest Russian rival.
Sounds familiar? Ofc it immediately made me think of Heated Rivalry, too, and my first guess was that it somehow was inspired by that iconic book, but "Cold war" was released 1 year before HR.
It wasn't bad - I liked the banter, and I really liked the whole pair/ figure skating setting. And I loved Mikhail/Misha. So no idea why I didn't
like it more, I can't put my finger on it.
The ending was sweet though and made me happy, so I'm glad I didn't give up on it at 70% as I originally planned to.
Maybe because it's not one book, but two shorter novellas, and that's why the plot wasn't flowing smoothly. It's the story of Dev, an American figure skater with Indian roots, and Mikhail, his biggest Russian rival.
Sounds familiar? Ofc it immediately made me think of Heated Rivalry, too, and my first guess was that it somehow was inspired by that iconic book, but "Cold war" was released 1 year before HR.
It wasn't bad - I liked the banter, and I really liked the whole pair/ figure skating setting. And I loved Mikhail/Misha. So no idea why I didn't
like it more, I can't put my finger on it.
The ending was sweet though and made me happy, so I'm glad I didn't give up on it at 70% as I originally planned to.
February 7, 2018
This was just the perfect time for me to read this book!
It is Winter!
The Olympics are starting!
I just did a whole week layout in my planner set around skating!!
It was just meant to be!
I’m a little excited if you couldn’t tell. I really loved this book. It hit all my buttons. All of them. It mixed everything perfectly. There was enough skating, enough romance, enough family. Everything was enough.
I fell head over heels in love with these boys and felt so much for them.
Sometimes a book is just perfect, the writing, the content and for sure, the timing.
This was one of them.
LOVED IT!
**ARC courtesy of the Author in exchange for an honest review**
It is Winter!
The Olympics are starting!
I just did a whole week layout in my planner set around skating!!
It was just meant to be!
I’m a little excited if you couldn’t tell. I really loved this book. It hit all my buttons. All of them. It mixed everything perfectly. There was enough skating, enough romance, enough family. Everything was enough.
I fell head over heels in love with these boys and felt so much for them.
Sometimes a book is just perfect, the writing, the content and for sure, the timing.
This was one of them.
LOVED IT!
**ARC courtesy of the Author in exchange for an honest review**
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March 10, 2022
MM Romance
Ice Skating Rivals
2 bored to Death Stars ⭐️
I got this for free due to the Winter Olympics and I figured since they started, I would read this because ice skating is my favorite event. They just make it look so effortless and graceful, gliding around doing jumps while I can barely skate forward without falling on my ass. This book was a little too ice skating forward though. What I mean is, I didn’t need so much info about the sport itself and the interviews the teams did. OMG *groannn* SO BORING! I wanted more romance than ice skating dialogue.
This was apparently two short stories that is now condensed into one and it read weird because of it. There are two parts both written in third person limited. Part one is from Dev’s pov and part two is Misha’s. I almost DNF’d at the start of part two because it was just so boring. These two are rivals and this book says this is enemies to lovers but they hump each other within the first 5% and then Dev’s pining drove me nuts. The only reason I didn’t DNF was because I finally had Misha’s thoughts but not even that could save this. I wish I had DNF’d because even the sex scenes were kind of cringy and I didn’t feel like these two had any connection whatsoever.
Add in injuries, Russian politics, coming out, secret relationship bs and ice dancing and I was ready for a nap. Thank fuck this was free.
Ice Skating Rivals
2 bored to Death Stars ⭐️
I got this for free due to the Winter Olympics and I figured since they started, I would read this because ice skating is my favorite event. They just make it look so effortless and graceful, gliding around doing jumps while I can barely skate forward without falling on my ass. This book was a little too ice skating forward though. What I mean is, I didn’t need so much info about the sport itself and the interviews the teams did. OMG *groannn* SO BORING! I wanted more romance than ice skating dialogue.
This was apparently two short stories that is now condensed into one and it read weird because of it. There are two parts both written in third person limited. Part one is from Dev’s pov and part two is Misha’s. I almost DNF’d at the start of part two because it was just so boring. These two are rivals and this book says this is enemies to lovers but they hump each other within the first 5% and then Dev’s pining drove me nuts. The only reason I didn’t DNF was because I finally had Misha’s thoughts but not even that could save this. I wish I had DNF’d because even the sex scenes were kind of cringy and I didn’t feel like these two had any connection whatsoever.
Add in injuries, Russian politics, coming out, secret relationship bs and ice dancing and I was ready for a nap. Thank fuck this was free.
January 13, 2020
3.5 stars for an Easy to Read , Sexy Story
I enjoyed reading this uncomplicated, lighthearted, enemies to lovers, sports, MM , HEA romance story and it's cute epilogue .
Cold War: Figure Skating is low angst and drama; high on sweetness with lots of hot AF intimate times.
I enjoyed reading this uncomplicated, lighthearted, enemies to lovers, sports, MM , HEA romance story and it's cute epilogue .
Cold War: Figure Skating is low angst and drama; high on sweetness with lots of hot AF intimate times.
February 16, 2018
Reviewed for Sinfully.
It seems like the Winter Olympics brings out the ice skating fan in everyone, so what better time to read an ice skater romance. The Winning Edge is a rivals to lovers story about pairs skaters Mikhail (Russia) and Dev (US).
Fiercely competitive on the ice, the US can never seem to beat the Russian champions. Dev and Mikhail dislike each other so much, even though underneath there is something else bubbling which explodes in the locker room after a competition. This one hook-up proves to be an unforgettable distraction for both men and a repeat is in store for theme the next time they meet regardless of what a bad idea it is. While everything is heating up in private, the men need to keep their competitive façade up. Neither is out in the skating world which is something that would affect both their careers, but they are out to their skating partners and families. The danger of being caught is very real and could be a detriment to both their careers and be devastating for Mikhail/Misha in particular.
The story follows them through a year of competition, from the lead-up to the Olympics, to their life afterwards in the off-season as the two deal with the latent homophobia in the skating world, the danger Mikhail faces in his home country and his feelings of responsibility to his partner Kisa and their families. Both have some big decisions to make as far as their careers and lives afterward go. Mikhail’s story is particularly worrisome and his sense of responsibility to everyone around him is the biggest stumbling block in his relationship with Dev. On the other hand, Dev is afraid of what his family will think of him being with Misha and what coming out would do to any opportunities he and his partner might have in the professional skating world. Dev’s partner, Bailey does her best to set him straight and is a fantastic support to him. Misha’s partner Kisa is likewise supportive and he has a strong family rooting for him as well.
The first part of the story focuses more on the two getting into the physical relationship while the second part of the story deals with the emotional drama of their decision to give a real relationship a try. What gives the story its tension is the real consequences that could befall not just Misha but his and his partner's families in Russia if he is outed. For Dev the professional consequences are less certain and his real fear seems to be what his mother will think of the relationship.
The story has a bit of everything, competition, secret romance, hot dirty-talk and sex, family issues and characters you’ll enjoy. I wasn’t always a big fan of the time jumps, but it didn’t change my enjoyment of the story. There is enough detail about skating to put you firmly in that world and feel the tension during the competition scenes without it becoming too technically bogged down.
If you’re one of those people who want to enhance their enjoyment of the Olympics with a skater romance or just like the rivals to lovers or secret relationship storyline, this story will definitely satisfy those cravings.
It seems like the Winter Olympics brings out the ice skating fan in everyone, so what better time to read an ice skater romance. The Winning Edge is a rivals to lovers story about pairs skaters Mikhail (Russia) and Dev (US).
Fiercely competitive on the ice, the US can never seem to beat the Russian champions. Dev and Mikhail dislike each other so much, even though underneath there is something else bubbling which explodes in the locker room after a competition. This one hook-up proves to be an unforgettable distraction for both men and a repeat is in store for theme the next time they meet regardless of what a bad idea it is. While everything is heating up in private, the men need to keep their competitive façade up. Neither is out in the skating world which is something that would affect both their careers, but they are out to their skating partners and families. The danger of being caught is very real and could be a detriment to both their careers and be devastating for Mikhail/Misha in particular.
The story follows them through a year of competition, from the lead-up to the Olympics, to their life afterwards in the off-season as the two deal with the latent homophobia in the skating world, the danger Mikhail faces in his home country and his feelings of responsibility to his partner Kisa and their families. Both have some big decisions to make as far as their careers and lives afterward go. Mikhail’s story is particularly worrisome and his sense of responsibility to everyone around him is the biggest stumbling block in his relationship with Dev. On the other hand, Dev is afraid of what his family will think of him being with Misha and what coming out would do to any opportunities he and his partner might have in the professional skating world. Dev’s partner, Bailey does her best to set him straight and is a fantastic support to him. Misha’s partner Kisa is likewise supportive and he has a strong family rooting for him as well.
The first part of the story focuses more on the two getting into the physical relationship while the second part of the story deals with the emotional drama of their decision to give a real relationship a try. What gives the story its tension is the real consequences that could befall not just Misha but his and his partner's families in Russia if he is outed. For Dev the professional consequences are less certain and his real fear seems to be what his mother will think of the relationship.
The story has a bit of everything, competition, secret romance, hot dirty-talk and sex, family issues and characters you’ll enjoy. I wasn’t always a big fan of the time jumps, but it didn’t change my enjoyment of the story. There is enough detail about skating to put you firmly in that world and feel the tension during the competition scenes without it becoming too technically bogged down.
If you’re one of those people who want to enhance their enjoyment of the Olympics with a skater romance or just like the rivals to lovers or secret relationship storyline, this story will definitely satisfy those cravings.
October 4, 2023
3.5 ⭐️ - 4 for ice skating details, 3 for romance. I really enjoyed Kiss and Cry by this author and we get a glimpse of this couple there so I thought I’d give this a go. This wasn’t as good but not a bad read. Can tell the author knows her stuff about ice skating, this was done well. The romance is ok. This is two novellas put together, the first from Dev’s POV the second from Misha’s. I think this would have worked better if the author had combined the two into alternating POV’s as the pacing in this version didn’t do the story justice. I lost interest in the middle section. Still a nice, easy read for people who like figure skating but I’d recommend the second story Kiss and Cry over this one. Pros - features an MC of South Indian heritage and one of Russian. Can’t comment on how accurately they are represented.
February 8, 2022
3/5 ⭐️
3/5 🌶
This was a fairly decent figure skating romance. Misha was 🥺 But I was mad at Dev a lot oop 🙈
3/5 🌶
This was a fairly decent figure skating romance. Misha was 🥺 But I was mad at Dev a lot oop 🙈
February 5, 2018
*ARC provided by the author*
This was de-light-ful.
I loved getting a glimpse into the world of skating, and the complexity of its demands, that (as in many disciplines) transcend the borders of the actual work inside the rink most of the times. It was fascinating to see that machine in motion. It was equally fascinating to see how the outside world impacts on the discipline's microcosm, as well as how the job shapes the skaters' lives. I think that aspect of the story was really well-crafted, and it was seamlessly interwoven with the core of the story, the love story between Dev and Misha.
Although in general it's not my favorite content, I have to say that here I wasn't bothered by the sex scenes (taking into account that the first one occurs pretty early into the story- in another context it may have bothered me, but it made sense here).
I also found it really enjoyable to get a glimpse into Misha's world, and I loved that the Holiday season aspect of the story didn't focus solely on the more well-known American style of celebration, but that it also included features of Misha's celebrations as well, with a special appearance by Father Frost! Honestly, the bit about the celebrations was the cutest and I loved it.
Another winning point was the relationships, not only the precious bond that formed between Dev and Misha, but the rest as well: the guys' friendships with their skating partners, the clear devotion the parents showed to their sons, and last but not least, as a very special bonus, there's a lovely doggie thrown in the mix!
Seriously, this story had a lot going on, and I really, really recommend it.
This was de-light-ful.
I loved getting a glimpse into the world of skating, and the complexity of its demands, that (as in many disciplines) transcend the borders of the actual work inside the rink most of the times. It was fascinating to see that machine in motion. It was equally fascinating to see how the outside world impacts on the discipline's microcosm, as well as how the job shapes the skaters' lives. I think that aspect of the story was really well-crafted, and it was seamlessly interwoven with the core of the story, the love story between Dev and Misha.
Although in general it's not my favorite content, I have to say that here I wasn't bothered by the sex scenes (taking into account that the first one occurs pretty early into the story- in another context it may have bothered me, but it made sense here).
I also found it really enjoyable to get a glimpse into Misha's world, and I loved that the Holiday season aspect of the story didn't focus solely on the more well-known American style of celebration, but that it also included features of Misha's celebrations as well, with a special appearance by Father Frost! Honestly, the bit about the celebrations was the cutest and I loved it.
Another winning point was the relationships, not only the precious bond that formed between Dev and Misha, but the rest as well: the guys' friendships with their skating partners, the clear devotion the parents showed to their sons, and last but not least, as a very special bonus, there's a lovely doggie thrown in the mix!
Seriously, this story had a lot going on, and I really, really recommend it.
January 21, 2020
Enemies to lovers AND figure skating all wrapped into one book? yes, yes and yes.
Keira Andrews is one of those authors that I know going into a book that I’ll be leaving in love with her characters and their love stories. Cold War was no different.
Nothing annoys Dev more than his rival Mikhail. He’s arrogant but he’s also attractive as heck which just makes it worse for Dev. What starts off as snarky comment in a dressing room becomes so much more and ultimately kindles this thing between them. Because, there is a fine line between hate and love, isn’t there?
God, these two together were completely fire. Enemies to lovers is one of my favorite things and these two were perfect in that trope. I loved the snarky comments, the secret hookups and the eventual softness that developed between the two. I had a particular soft spot for Misha(Mikhail) from the beginning. The way he seemed so closed off but was actually so much more and watching Dev learn that for himself was just *chefs kiss.*
Four stars for this one. I can already see this being a book I reread every winter...and just when I’m craving some good steamy times with two MCs with chemistry out of this world.
Keira Andrews is one of those authors that I know going into a book that I’ll be leaving in love with her characters and their love stories. Cold War was no different.
Nothing annoys Dev more than his rival Mikhail. He’s arrogant but he’s also attractive as heck which just makes it worse for Dev. What starts off as snarky comment in a dressing room becomes so much more and ultimately kindles this thing between them. Because, there is a fine line between hate and love, isn’t there?
God, these two together were completely fire. Enemies to lovers is one of my favorite things and these two were perfect in that trope. I loved the snarky comments, the secret hookups and the eventual softness that developed between the two. I had a particular soft spot for Misha(Mikhail) from the beginning. The way he seemed so closed off but was actually so much more and watching Dev learn that for himself was just *chefs kiss.*
Four stars for this one. I can already see this being a book I reread every winter...and just when I’m craving some good steamy times with two MCs with chemistry out of this world.
February 9, 2018
What a great read right before the winter Olympics! And skating is definitely my favorite event!!
I loved Dev and Misha! Enemies to lovers is one of my favorite tropes if done correctly. And this was perfect! The locker room scene where they were fighting, breathing hard, and getting into each others faces? And then next thing you know they are all over each other, kissing and rutting together. OMGeee, that was amazing!
I enjoyed watching their relationship grow, even though they had their struggles. And I learned quite a bit about Russian culture. Overall, I loved it!!
I loved Dev and Misha! Enemies to lovers is one of my favorite tropes if done correctly. And this was perfect! The locker room scene where they were fighting, breathing hard, and getting into each others faces? And then next thing you know they are all over each other, kissing and rutting together. OMGeee, that was amazing!
I enjoyed watching their relationship grow, even though they had their struggles. And I learned quite a bit about Russian culture. Overall, I loved it!!
February 17, 2022
DNF ~25%
I don't know if I've ever had to DNF a Keira Andrews book, but I just couldn't take this one any longer. This is essentially two novellas in one book and it was clear she hadn't quite nailed the pacing. There's supposed to be a whole enemies-to-lovers vibe, but it honestly made zero sense to me how they started suddenly making out, I found Dev to be super annoying, and there was negative chemistry. Nothing about this appealed.
I don't know if I've ever had to DNF a Keira Andrews book, but I just couldn't take this one any longer. This is essentially two novellas in one book and it was clear she hadn't quite nailed the pacing. There's supposed to be a whole enemies-to-lovers vibe, but it honestly made zero sense to me how they started suddenly making out, I found Dev to be super annoying, and there was negative chemistry. Nothing about this appealed.
Read
January 8, 2023For those who want to read enemies-to-lovers where the sexual tension is resolved immediately. The rest of the book is everyone coping with the shock that Misha and Dev are together. Their own shock and exchanges of "I can't believe we're doing this" feature every chapter. Misha only gets away with shooting his shot the first time bc Dev is a big sweetheart. I think that the entire 1st half being from Dev's POV was how this book managed to work. And it did work, somehow. If you can accept that they're into each other and then buckle up for the ride, the author keeps it interesting. (Keeps up the High Drama anyways.) The pacing of this book is baffling, tho. There could be a day or months between chapters, with competitions being semi-good points of reference if you can remember when they are. The 2nd half is from Misha's POV which just amplifies the feeling of whiplash. RIP that these covers are f%$#ing atrocious but the book was much more fun that I thought it could be.
February 20, 2022
Slow start, very hot sex and feathery light drama. Completely outshined by Kiss and Cry, I found the plot a bit boring. Despite Misha and Dev being competitors this completely lacked the fiery tension I expect from a enemies to lovers romance.
April 11, 2025
This might actually be my least favorite Keira Andrews book, but it says a lot that I still give it a 4 star rating. She's just so consistently good, no matter what book I pick up, I know I'm going to leave satisfied!
February 8, 2022
Es una historia que está bien pero se nota que son dos historias cortas, así que falta más desarrollo en algunas cuestiones...
July 10, 2018
This book was provided for free by the author and Love Bytes in exchange for an honest review.
This review was first posted to Love Bytes: LGBTQ Book Reviews. It has been slightly edited here for content.
When two ultra-competitive characters start as rivals and have their first romantic encounter in the locker room, you know you’re in for a steamy story with a lot of conflict and tension. But Dev and Mikhail (Misha) can’t deny their chemistry for long, making this a perfect enemies-to-lovers sports romance that always brings the drama.
This is a great example of a sports romance that doesn’t skimp on the actual sports. If you’re not familiar with the world of competitive ice skating, you don’t need to worry, because we get a lot of detail about competition rankings, different events, and different technical aspects of pairs figure skating. We get a great feel for the Olympics atmosphere before we even fall in love with the romance. As someone who already loves ice skating, I was totally fan-girling over the entire setting.
Andrews always knows how to really bring the heat with her romantic pairings, and Dev and Misha are no different. While they may have their differences in competition, there’s no doubt about who is in charge in the bedroom, and their effortless push-pull dynamic heats up every love scene. We definitely get some great romance and sweetness, but Andrews never shies away from the dirty as well!
My only issue came with pacing. I think this story should’ve stayed as a two-part release with two distinct novellas. They don’t really flow as one story. In the second half of the book, I think the romance shifts into turbo-drive a little bit, coming at us fast with the coming-out and love confessions. While part one was perfectly paced and nuanced in its characterization of both men, the latter part dipped into saccharine sweetness and melodrama just a little too much. The first part (Cold War) has a great story arc and a satisfying ending, so to have the story continue seamlessly onto the next part (Holding the Edge) leads to burnout rather than excitement to see what Misha and Dev are up to next.
Despite this clumsiness of putting the two stories together, I really enjoyed this book on both a plot level and a romance level. It brought the excellent sizzle, drama, and story arc in equal measure.
This review was first posted to Love Bytes: LGBTQ Book Reviews. It has been slightly edited here for content.
When two ultra-competitive characters start as rivals and have their first romantic encounter in the locker room, you know you’re in for a steamy story with a lot of conflict and tension. But Dev and Mikhail (Misha) can’t deny their chemistry for long, making this a perfect enemies-to-lovers sports romance that always brings the drama.
This is a great example of a sports romance that doesn’t skimp on the actual sports. If you’re not familiar with the world of competitive ice skating, you don’t need to worry, because we get a lot of detail about competition rankings, different events, and different technical aspects of pairs figure skating. We get a great feel for the Olympics atmosphere before we even fall in love with the romance. As someone who already loves ice skating, I was totally fan-girling over the entire setting.
Andrews always knows how to really bring the heat with her romantic pairings, and Dev and Misha are no different. While they may have their differences in competition, there’s no doubt about who is in charge in the bedroom, and their effortless push-pull dynamic heats up every love scene. We definitely get some great romance and sweetness, but Andrews never shies away from the dirty as well!
My only issue came with pacing. I think this story should’ve stayed as a two-part release with two distinct novellas. They don’t really flow as one story. In the second half of the book, I think the romance shifts into turbo-drive a little bit, coming at us fast with the coming-out and love confessions. While part one was perfectly paced and nuanced in its characterization of both men, the latter part dipped into saccharine sweetness and melodrama just a little too much. The first part (Cold War) has a great story arc and a satisfying ending, so to have the story continue seamlessly onto the next part (Holding the Edge) leads to burnout rather than excitement to see what Misha and Dev are up to next.
Despite this clumsiness of putting the two stories together, I really enjoyed this book on both a plot level and a romance level. It brought the excellent sizzle, drama, and story arc in equal measure.
February 4, 2018
This is a re-release of two short stories which have been combined into a single volume and given a quick once over. I don't believe there's been any changes, I certainly didn't notice any.
It's a timely release, given the Winter Olympics start this week, and it's one of my favourite sports romances, focusing on the unlikely pairing of an Indian-born American and a Russian, both competing in the pair's figure skating.
The Russian pair have dominated for a few years and there's all kinds of delicious tensions between the couple's but I love how their first encounter just explodes out of a confrontation between Dev and Mikhail.
There's a brilliant shout out to Leta Blake's Training Season in this book, alongside brooding Russians, worried Americans, confused team mates and clueless competitors, and it's just a really sexy read.
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review.
It's a timely release, given the Winter Olympics start this week, and it's one of my favourite sports romances, focusing on the unlikely pairing of an Indian-born American and a Russian, both competing in the pair's figure skating.
The Russian pair have dominated for a few years and there's all kinds of delicious tensions between the couple's but I love how their first encounter just explodes out of a confrontation between Dev and Mikhail.
There's a brilliant shout out to Leta Blake's Training Season in this book, alongside brooding Russians, worried Americans, confused team mates and clueless competitors, and it's just a really sexy read.
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review.
March 22, 2018
I enjoyed the first half of this book. The story became old and tired quickly with the political sub-plot and all the hiding. The relationship between Misha and Dev seemed centered around the bedroom which was a shame.
February 12, 2018
Enjoyable winter Olympic‘s m/m romance.
September 3, 2023
good but a bit rushed
June 3, 2020
Uncomfortable. She is pained whether sitting or lying, and standing is no better. But she rests and has much chocolate and vodka and what’s the word? Romance novels that are…ah! Trashy. — Mikhail "Misha" Reznikov (about Kisa)
June 2020 reread: I'm in a rereading mood I need comfort. Zoloto as the name for a beloved pet is still one of the better names I've ever read. There is so much meaning behind it, and the line Misha uses to explain it causes echos through Holding the Edge which I didn't pick up the first time. Bailey and Kisa are still legends it's so nice to see such strong female characters in mlm fiction. Even Keira doesn't do that a lot. I'm happy to I chose to reread this. It hasn't contaminated my memories of it at all, always a risk.
“Misha. This is what friends call me.”
“I’m not your friend.” Dev was simply stating a fact.
Mikhail—Misha—smiled softly. “No. You are my…little rebellion.” He pressed their lips together gently. “Thank you for that.”
“I…you’re welcome? We shouldn’t…we can’t.” But I don’t ever want to stop.
Mikhail’s expression clouded. “No. We can’t.” He leaned their foreheads together. “But it felt good, yes?” — Mikhail "Misha" Reznikov & Dev Avira
Gosh I loved this book so much. It's been so long since I've fallen as fast, as hard as I did for Mikhail "Misha" Reznikov (last time was probably Snow in Shatter). I have a thing for fictional Russians. Seriously attractive, tragic backstories, repressed passion and quirky humour. This is Misha. I cooed hard, he's gorgeous inside and out. Misha is not initially the protagonist that is Dev Avira. Dev is a likeable narrator and character. He has a helluva backstory. Everything switches in the second half. Misha is the narrator. It is pleasant to read, seeing the other side.
A warning. There are some moments of homophobia and forced sexual repression. It does not dwell on it unduly but it is a core to the plot. Especially in the second half of the book.
Misha and Dev are well supported by a largely female cast. Their skating partners Kisa and Bailey and in the first book Louise, Dev and Bailey's manager. Kisa and Bailey are brilliant, both of them want the best for their men. Kisa is so strong and not at all what I expected. Bailey is the best bestie a person could ask for, take no shit, put him first even when he doesn't and he is so funny. Both of them are just fantastic. I love them.
I liked the writing style. Especially in the first half of the book. Misha's linguistic patterns feel right for a person who spent time in America and on a touring circuit. He understands some slang. The Russian used adds to the story. Especially once Dev is given his kink. Zoloto made me smile, the smile itself is adorable be the reasoning made me weak. The effort in the writing shows in the name usage by Dev. His difficulty in separating Mikhail and Misha and how the name shows this. It's a small thing really but details matter.
I feel the need to point out that The Winning Edge was initially published as two novellas, Cold War and Holding the Edge. Kiera Andrews does state this in the blurb but publishing them together is a bit of risk to my eyes. There is so much risk that the second novella Holding the Edge could ruin the first. That wasn't the case here. I loved both of them. Yes, Cold War was slightly better but when reading in succession they are wonderful. The female characters shine in Holding the Edge and it does conclude Misha and Dev's story so well. Reading from Misha's perspective was a joy, seeing Dev from his perspective, seeing his reasoning for their decision.
For the record, you guys are all, like, totally blind. And once you get over the shock, they’re pretty freaking adorable. So get over it already. — Bailey Robinson
A representative gif:
January 31, 2018
Dev and Mikhail (Misha) are world class figure skaters. Both gay, both in the closet, both in the hunt for Gold at the Olympics. Both men are devoted to their skating partners and their end game of a gold medal. Dev, because it's his ultimate goal. Mikhail, because if he takes home a gold his future and family will be safe.
The last thing they expect is the spark that ignites between them. Dev and Misha know that they are courting disaster, yet they continue to find ways to be together. A story of strong men, wanting what they shouldn't but unable to walk away. Finding something in each other they never thought to have.
Admitting their feelings publicly would cause issues they might not be able to overcome. Dev with his family and Misha with his country's anti gay persecution.
I would of liked to have seen this addressed in more depth. That said, the story has a good mix of hot sex and a believable story line. An interesting glimpse into the grit behind the glamour of pairs figure skating. The author has combined two books into one.
Review Copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMG Reads
The last thing they expect is the spark that ignites between them. Dev and Misha know that they are courting disaster, yet they continue to find ways to be together. A story of strong men, wanting what they shouldn't but unable to walk away. Finding something in each other they never thought to have.
Admitting their feelings publicly would cause issues they might not be able to overcome. Dev with his family and Misha with his country's anti gay persecution.
I would of liked to have seen this addressed in more depth. That said, the story has a good mix of hot sex and a believable story line. An interesting glimpse into the grit behind the glamour of pairs figure skating. The author has combined two books into one.
Review Copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMG Reads
February 26, 2018
I love everything about this story—gay romance, world-class figure skating, the vibrance of the Olympic stage—and Keira Andrews spins a gripping tale of love and lust, friendship and commitment, impulses and consequences. The writing feels authentic to the figure skating world, and the timing is perfect for readers to ride the emotional tide of Olympic energy.
The fact that this romance is multicultural is really a secondary aspect, but the clean, organic, respectful way the author pens the various character nationalities is brilliant. I had a clear understanding about who these people were without typecasting then as racial stereotypes, and that is something special that not all authors can pull off.
This romance is a MUST-READ story for fans of m/m and figure skating.
The fact that this romance is multicultural is really a secondary aspect, but the clean, organic, respectful way the author pens the various character nationalities is brilliant. I had a clear understanding about who these people were without typecasting then as racial stereotypes, and that is something special that not all authors can pull off.
This romance is a MUST-READ story for fans of m/m and figure skating.
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