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International Legacies #5
Her Russian Defender
I was pure fire.
And she was my light.
Grigory Mikhailov
Huge. Silent. Brooding.
And pure fire on the ice.
As a defenseman for the Brooklyn Blades he takes his aggression out during the game,
attacking with all the force of an inferno.
He’s everything I shouldn’t want in a man.
Until the Russian who has secretly been holding a torch for me comes to my rescue in a time of need.
Now, I see the calm at the center of his storm.
But will it be enough to withstand outside forces that threaten to come between us?
Warning: due to adult content and language, 18+ only.
This is a BWWM Stand Alone Romance in the International Legacies Romance series:
The Italian Heir
The French Thief
The Nordic Lightning
Her Icelandic Protector
And she was my light.
Grigory Mikhailov
Huge. Silent. Brooding.
And pure fire on the ice.
As a defenseman for the Brooklyn Blades he takes his aggression out during the game,
attacking with all the force of an inferno.
He’s everything I shouldn’t want in a man.
Until the Russian who has secretly been holding a torch for me comes to my rescue in a time of need.
Now, I see the calm at the center of his storm.
But will it be enough to withstand outside forces that threaten to come between us?
Warning: due to adult content and language, 18+ only.
This is a BWWM Stand Alone Romance in the International Legacies Romance series:
The Italian Heir
The French Thief
The Nordic Lightning
Her Icelandic Protector
313 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 14, 2020
355 people are currently reading
175 people want to read
About the author
Camilla Stevens
33 books219 followersCamilla Stevens is a romance author focusing on IR, BWWM romance, usually humorous or suspenseful.
She lives in New York by way of Los Angeles, Houston, Atlanta, Seattle and a few stints elsewhere. And yes, she loves to travel.
Tulips. Read my books for more on that. ;)
VIsit my website for preview chapters and more!
Website: https://camillastevens.com/
Twitter Handle: camillastevens4
Facebook Fan Page: www.facebook.authorcamillastevens
Newsletter: http://eepurl.com/cbc3BD
She lives in New York by way of Los Angeles, Houston, Atlanta, Seattle and a few stints elsewhere. And yes, she loves to travel.
Tulips. Read my books for more on that. ;)
VIsit my website for preview chapters and more!
Website: https://camillastevens.com/
Twitter Handle: camillastevens4
Facebook Fan Page: www.facebook.authorcamillastevens
Newsletter: http://eepurl.com/cbc3BD
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 99 reviews
January 14, 2020
It's LIVE!!!!!!!!!!!!!
If you thought Nordic's Erik Sorenson was an unforgettable character with a hockey stick in "The Nordic Lightning" book 3 in the International Legacies Romance series, well time to read the next striking alpha in the series and fall hard for this man: big, brooding and silent Russian hockey defender, Grigory Mikhailov! I strongly recommend that you read Erik and Maya's story first to understand how these couple's lives intertwined with the H/h, Grigory and Zia in "Her Russian Defender", a daring sports romance!
Even as the story begins, there was a lot of twists and turns with both characters, Grigory and Zia fighting their feelings...HARD until they couldn't and then more drama comes into play in the form of the mafia, blackmail ...nope enough with the spoilers for you!
Read it and enjoy Camilla Steven's latest hot addition to An International Legacies series!
5 striking stars!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
If you thought Nordic's Erik Sorenson was an unforgettable character with a hockey stick in "The Nordic Lightning" book 3 in the International Legacies Romance series, well time to read the next striking alpha in the series and fall hard for this man: big, brooding and silent Russian hockey defender, Grigory Mikhailov! I strongly recommend that you read Erik and Maya's story first to understand how these couple's lives intertwined with the H/h, Grigory and Zia in "Her Russian Defender", a daring sports romance!
Even as the story begins, there was a lot of twists and turns with both characters, Grigory and Zia fighting their feelings...HARD until they couldn't and then more drama comes into play in the form of the mafia, blackmail ...nope enough with the spoilers for you!
Read it and enjoy Camilla Steven's latest hot addition to An International Legacies series!
5 striking stars!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 20, 2024
Even though she didn't notice him much when they first met, Grigory definitely noticed Zia. With everything he had going in his life, Grigory felt it was best to admire Zia from afar. But as always, fate will have it's way, and after getting to know her, Grigory is determined to have his Zia.
Her Russian Defender was great read with a little suspense and action mixed in with the story of a unlikely couple who starts off with a spark of attraction and ends with a explosion of romance and eventually a lifetime of love. There is also the unexpected bit of the Russian underworld that peeped into the story which added a little more spice to the story line. I loved these two as a couple, because even when issues from his past reared its ugly head and threatened their happy existence, they still thought of each other first instead turning into one another temporary enemies. I also love how Zia was able to loosen Grigory up and helped him to enjoy life a little more. For me, this was a feel good romance in which the characters were endearing which made me enjoy getting to know them along with all of the characters in the story along with revisiting some from other books in the series.
Her Russian Defender was great read with a little suspense and action mixed in with the story of a unlikely couple who starts off with a spark of attraction and ends with a explosion of romance and eventually a lifetime of love. There is also the unexpected bit of the Russian underworld that peeped into the story which added a little more spice to the story line. I loved these two as a couple, because even when issues from his past reared its ugly head and threatened their happy existence, they still thought of each other first instead turning into one another temporary enemies. I also love how Zia was able to loosen Grigory up and helped him to enjoy life a little more. For me, this was a feel good romance in which the characters were endearing which made me enjoy getting to know them along with all of the characters in the story along with revisiting some from other books in the series.
January 16, 2020
This was a good read. Zia catches her boyfriend cheating and now she needs a place to stay. She ends up living with Grigory. They fall each other pretty quickly. However, due to some issues he was afraid to have it all with her. Thankfully it all works out well for them in the end.
January 17, 2020
Great Story!!
Another winner!! I loved the characters and the story was believable. I can't wait for Me Steven 's next book.
Another winner!! I loved the characters and the story was believable. I can't wait for Me Steven 's next book.
January 15, 2020
Great read
This book had me enthralled! I remember Zia and Grigory from the first book in this series and they were intriguing even though they were only together for a short amount of time. This book did them such justice. I honestly did not know what to expect from them but I can tell you this did not disappoint! I don't want to give away any details because I don't want to spoil it but if you like Camilla;s other books you will definitely enjoy this story!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This book had me enthralled! I remember Zia and Grigory from the first book in this series and they were intriguing even though they were only together for a short amount of time. This book did them such justice. I honestly did not know what to expect from them but I can tell you this did not disappoint! I don't want to give away any details because I don't want to spoil it but if you like Camilla;s other books you will definitely enjoy this story!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 26, 2023
I first started reading this author with her book Nordic Lightning and I enjoyed both characters. While I also enjoyed Zia and Grigory in this story I wasn’t really a big fan of the storyline itself. It took most of the first quarter of this book before these two were actually together for more than a nano second, which instead of ramping up the tension it made the story really drag. Once they got together things started picking up then we went into full on stereotypical Russian drama mode, which took up another half of the book, which just brought the momentum to their courtship to a screeching halt. They finally get back together and we get a rush to the end, we do get an epilogue so we see what happens in their future.
What worked for me Zia was a strong woman, when her boyfriend cheated on her she defended her own honor, kept it together and kept on moving. I loved Grigory’s intensity, his dropped speech articles and his bluntness and big heart under that brooding exterior. While there was chemistry between them it wasn’t overtly intense, for me it was a sweet comfortable passionate type of thing. Zia didn’t go to much into drama queen angst mode when things went sideways, she kept herself together. Grigory was very pragmatic about his unwanted situation, but still wanted to figure out how to make things work with Zia.
For me the story didn’t do either of them justice and wish it had taken a different path, I liked both Zia and Grigory and how easily they meshed despite some stumbles. Over the top unwanted drama not so much.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
What worked for me Zia was a strong woman, when her boyfriend cheated on her she defended her own honor, kept it together and kept on moving. I loved Grigory’s intensity, his dropped speech articles and his bluntness and big heart under that brooding exterior. While there was chemistry between them it wasn’t overtly intense, for me it was a sweet comfortable passionate type of thing. Zia didn’t go to much into drama queen angst mode when things went sideways, she kept herself together. Grigory was very pragmatic about his unwanted situation, but still wanted to figure out how to make things work with Zia.
For me the story didn’t do either of them justice and wish it had taken a different path, I liked both Zia and Grigory and how easily they meshed despite some stumbles. Over the top unwanted drama not so much.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 4, 2020
Thus far, I've enjoyed every book in the International Legacies series. In fact, I've read all of this author's books. Check out her books on Amazon!
January 29, 2020
Her Russian Defender: An International Legacies Romance By: Camilla Stevens"Her Russian Defender" Will Protect Her... NO Matter The Threats That Come Their Way!
When She catches Her BoyFriend, Literally IN the Act...
It's the Cap ON a piece of CR@P Day,
But it's NOT Over by FAR...
Cuz She's gotta MOVE, & She's got absolutely NO Place to Stay!
But Her Friends come to Her aid...
Ensuring She's sent to His Huge BrownStone!
And that's how He becomes "Her Russian Defender!"
Cuz I guess this S€X¥ Guy has a thing for Her...
But what's She gotten HerSelf into!
As it seems "Her Russian Defender" has Secrets...
Which He hasn't been Sharing with His TeamMates!
I was granted, via B00|{$P®0UT, an ARC of Camilla Stevens' "Her Russian Defender: An International Legacies Romance." I recommend this book to others based upon its own recommendations. All opinions expressed within this review are uniquely my own & freely given!
Until next time... Happy Reading!
My Rating Sytem:
4🌟: I like IT a lot. Great, Solid Story w/ few if any inconsistencies or errors. This is a HIGH Rating, & I rarely give OUT a Higher Rating.
If My Review is helpful to you, please check the box below~ Thank You.
January 18, 2020
Can't get enough of this series.!
I've read each book in Camilla Stevens International Legacies series and highly recommend them all. Until reading Grigory's story my favorite was Lorenzo of The Italian Heir. Grigory's dominating Russian is a close second favorite.
Zia and Grigory are definitely a story of opposites attract. She's a soft hearted free spirited yoga instructor who believes in the good in everyone. She has endured a really bad breakup with yet another man child boyfriend when circumstances literally bring her to Grigory's front door.
Grigory was intrigued with Zia from a months earlier meeting. Well needless to say Zia was going through a period of self reflection following her breakup from her last boyfriend.
Timing may not have been on their side but they both right their attraction until they can't.
Zia helps Grigory soften his hard edges and he shows her the importance of self value.
When they finally connect Grigory stakes his claim and will not allow anything or anyone to keep he and Zia apart.
The thing about I've noticed in each of Camilla Stevens books is the theme of family and how important that support system is. Whether immediate or extended the support of family is to be treasured. The writing and story telling is always engrossing but the characters and especially the male leads are on a journey to be the men, husbands and fathers they were intended to be. Zia and Grigory face the challenges of life and come to realize everyone needs someone and they are more formidable together than they are apart.
If you want to escape into the international world and learn a little about the culture of each of these men, I highly recommend reading each book in this entire series.
I've read each book in Camilla Stevens International Legacies series and highly recommend them all. Until reading Grigory's story my favorite was Lorenzo of The Italian Heir. Grigory's dominating Russian is a close second favorite.
Zia and Grigory are definitely a story of opposites attract. She's a soft hearted free spirited yoga instructor who believes in the good in everyone. She has endured a really bad breakup with yet another man child boyfriend when circumstances literally bring her to Grigory's front door.
Grigory was intrigued with Zia from a months earlier meeting. Well needless to say Zia was going through a period of self reflection following her breakup from her last boyfriend.
Timing may not have been on their side but they both right their attraction until they can't.
Zia helps Grigory soften his hard edges and he shows her the importance of self value.
When they finally connect Grigory stakes his claim and will not allow anything or anyone to keep he and Zia apart.
The thing about I've noticed in each of Camilla Stevens books is the theme of family and how important that support system is. Whether immediate or extended the support of family is to be treasured. The writing and story telling is always engrossing but the characters and especially the male leads are on a journey to be the men, husbands and fathers they were intended to be. Zia and Grigory face the challenges of life and come to realize everyone needs someone and they are more formidable together than they are apart.
If you want to escape into the international world and learn a little about the culture of each of these men, I highly recommend reading each book in this entire series.
January 19, 2020
When you read the synopsis of the story you are already pulled in. I found this book to be very entertaining.
When we first meet Zia she is going through a lot. Her job is not what she wanted to be, her boyfriend is a mess, and she is not where she wants to be in life. Grigory has isolated himself from not only his teammates but also the world.
I did not read The Nordic Lightning: An International Legacies Romance so I did not understand part of their beginning. It however isn't necessary to read the first book in order to understand their dynamic only because it is mentioned in this story so that is a plus.
I was a bit confused that Grigory was so accommodating about Zia moving in temporarily. But as a story progressed you understand why. Zia wants to be independent, so for about 25% to 30% of the book she is moving all around New York. I could understand why she so easily moved around and wanted not to depend on a man however as a cat owner I was very concerned about Matzo Ball.
This story was very low on angst. It did happen by outside forces however it was not as bad as I thought it was going to be with who and what popped up. I am very glad that Camilla Stevens did not have Zia and Grigory be apart for most of the story while he figured out how to change his circumstances. The fact that they still communicated and hung out as friends was very refreshing.
I love the epilogue that was given as well as Grigory getting everything he wanted. The way everything was describe and the amount of detail that was given had me there as a bystander. I felt as though I was part of the family and it was very interesting getting to see the future of Zia's and Grigory's siblings.
I personally had only a couple issues with the formatting of this story. Everything seems to be in present tense as though Zia or Grigory is writing their autobiography vs it being written in third person. It just threw me off a couple of times when I assumed it was going to be in third person and it happened to be in first person. A lot of stories nowadays are written in third person so when a book is written in first it takes me awhile to adjust but I never adjusted.
This book was amazing and aside from that I would definitely read another book from Miss Stevens.
When we first meet Zia she is going through a lot. Her job is not what she wanted to be, her boyfriend is a mess, and she is not where she wants to be in life. Grigory has isolated himself from not only his teammates but also the world.
I did not read The Nordic Lightning: An International Legacies Romance so I did not understand part of their beginning. It however isn't necessary to read the first book in order to understand their dynamic only because it is mentioned in this story so that is a plus.
I was a bit confused that Grigory was so accommodating about Zia moving in temporarily. But as a story progressed you understand why. Zia wants to be independent, so for about 25% to 30% of the book she is moving all around New York. I could understand why she so easily moved around and wanted not to depend on a man however as a cat owner I was very concerned about Matzo Ball.
This story was very low on angst. It did happen by outside forces however it was not as bad as I thought it was going to be with who and what popped up. I am very glad that Camilla Stevens did not have Zia and Grigory be apart for most of the story while he figured out how to change his circumstances. The fact that they still communicated and hung out as friends was very refreshing.
I love the epilogue that was given as well as Grigory getting everything he wanted. The way everything was describe and the amount of detail that was given had me there as a bystander. I felt as though I was part of the family and it was very interesting getting to see the future of Zia's and Grigory's siblings.
I personally had only a couple issues with the formatting of this story. Everything seems to be in present tense as though Zia or Grigory is writing their autobiography vs it being written in third person. It just threw me off a couple of times when I assumed it was going to be in third person and it happened to be in first person. A lot of stories nowadays are written in third person so when a book is written in first it takes me awhile to adjust but I never adjusted.
This book was amazing and aside from that I would definitely read another book from Miss Stevens.
January 14, 2020
Camille Stevens is one of my favorite authors and this book is a reminder of why. I always like to start by acknowledging when an author does a great job with the mechanics of the writing, because even if you have good characters and a good what if your writing is subpar, I'll never know because I probably won't finish your story. Miss Stevens always crafts her stories very well, the editing is exceptional oh, I think I found maybe 5 to 6 minor errors, in a book this length, is excellent. I only noticed that's because I read so often that my eye often picks those things up. The stories are always well crafted with a fully thought out and executed plot and interesting and well-developed characters. Her Russian Defender is Grigory and Zia's love story. We first met these characters briefly in Maya and Eric's book The Nordic Lightning. I really enjoyed watching the characters come together Zia's light personality as well balanced against Grigory's brooding Alpha, temperament. I really enjoyed getting an additional glimpse into Zia sister friends Maya, Gabby and Demi as well as her interesting family. The pacing and length of a story was perfect it didn't feel rushed. Their romance made sense and the hiccup in their relationship was not dragged out and was resolved in a reasonable amount of time. I really enjoyed the story and the descriptions of the Russian culture and locales were wonderful. I highly recommend.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest reviewed.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest reviewed.
January 15, 2020
Let me start by saying that Camilla Stevens is a favorite author of mine, which is why I'll continue to read her books. Her Russian Defender is the latest installment in her International Legacies series, which features the story of Grigory and Zia. Grigory is a Russian alpha male with some brooding tendencies and a low emotional IQ. Zia is an African-American female with an open and warm, but sometimes people-pleasing heart. This story is what happens when her open heart calls out to his closed off one and sparks fly. I love Camilla Stevens' ability to create a world so vivid that you actually feel like you are truly a part of the story. The interplay between Zia and her girlfriends is simply amazing. As an African-American woman with a sister circle, I've had some of these same conversations among my friends so these discussions ring true for me. I love that all of her African-American female characters are so varied and diverse in terms of their personalities. She creates multi-layered characters that allow the reader to see whole people. Ms. Stevens also has an uncanny ability to make me want to visit every place she describes in her International Legacies novels. Maybe one day, right?
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 28, 2020
I received this book free as an ARC reader for review.
Much like her other books, this novel is about a strong, independent, woman who falls in love with the type of man we all secretly dream about…He’s a giant, gorgeous, wealthy, alpha male who loves her to distraction, loves her enough to be weak and vulnerable, loves her enough to do anything to win her.
I enjoyed meeting Zia’s friends (most of whom I had already met in a previous book) and family. Grigory is a strong, stoic, character which makes his devotion to Zia all the more interesting. The epilogue was a little over done, but I do so love a happy ending. I wish the engagement scene had been part of the story.
Much like her other books, this novel is about a strong, independent, woman who falls in love with the type of man we all secretly dream about…He’s a giant, gorgeous, wealthy, alpha male who loves her to distraction, loves her enough to be weak and vulnerable, loves her enough to do anything to win her.
I enjoyed meeting Zia’s friends (most of whom I had already met in a previous book) and family. Grigory is a strong, stoic, character which makes his devotion to Zia all the more interesting. The epilogue was a little over done, but I do so love a happy ending. I wish the engagement scene had been part of the story.
January 17, 2020
Zia has to move out of her boyfriend's apartment after catching him with another woman. Due to the help of mutual friends, she ends up staying at the home of a Russian hockey player named Grigory. The attraction between Zia and Grigory is instantaneous. They eventually succumb to their feelings, but there are a few issues that complicate their relationship and threaten to keep them apart.
Overall, I liked the book but there were times when it seemed to drag along. I wasn't interested in knowing all of the details and dynamics of Zia's family because it didn't add anything to the plot and it didn't advance the narrative in any way.
There was suspense throughout the whole book but ultimately it ended up being low stakes. All of the potential conflicts and obstacles that posed a threat to Zia and Grigory's relationship merely ended up being a temporary inconvenience and didn't affect either of their lives in a significant way long-term. This could have been a memorable romantic suspense novel but unfortunately the author decided to play it safe.
Overall, I liked the book but there were times when it seemed to drag along. I wasn't interested in knowing all of the details and dynamics of Zia's family because it didn't add anything to the plot and it didn't advance the narrative in any way.
There was suspense throughout the whole book but ultimately it ended up being low stakes. All of the potential conflicts and obstacles that posed a threat to Zia and Grigory's relationship merely ended up being a temporary inconvenience and didn't affect either of their lives in a significant way long-term. This could have been a memorable romantic suspense novel but unfortunately the author decided to play it safe.
January 15, 2020
5 Amazing Stars
Camilla Stevens you are exceptionally talented!!!
It’s not often you read a book that has that extra spark that really makes it an throughly enjoyable read and to do it in one book no less is incredible.
I love how we get real life context, something that is often overlooked but for me really ties in the whole story. It’s not just based in fantasy but actual real world information that sets this book apart from others. We learn about Grigory’s past and the dedication he has to his family makes my heart soar.
I would definitely say this is a slow burn that rolls into insta love and I found that it suited Zia’s character so well... especially how opposites seem to attract. There is a uniqueness amongst these two characters. Zia’s friendly hippy persona coupled with Grigory’s macho physique but tender heart offered something new to this genre. I was pleasantly surprised about Grigory being an actual honest, kind, compassionate guy which is not typical of this genre, add in the twists and turns and I couldn’t put this book down.
Please note: this ARC was received by the Author in exchange for an honest review.
Camilla Stevens you are exceptionally talented!!!
It’s not often you read a book that has that extra spark that really makes it an throughly enjoyable read and to do it in one book no less is incredible.
I love how we get real life context, something that is often overlooked but for me really ties in the whole story. It’s not just based in fantasy but actual real world information that sets this book apart from others. We learn about Grigory’s past and the dedication he has to his family makes my heart soar.
I would definitely say this is a slow burn that rolls into insta love and I found that it suited Zia’s character so well... especially how opposites seem to attract. There is a uniqueness amongst these two characters. Zia’s friendly hippy persona coupled with Grigory’s macho physique but tender heart offered something new to this genre. I was pleasantly surprised about Grigory being an actual honest, kind, compassionate guy which is not typical of this genre, add in the twists and turns and I couldn’t put this book down.
Please note: this ARC was received by the Author in exchange for an honest review.
January 14, 2020
Camille Stevens is one of my favorite authors and Zia and Grigory's story is a reminder why. It's good to acknowledge when an author has done a fantastic job with the writing and the development of her characters. You can't have good characters without a terrific plot and storytelling. Camilla Stevens word building in her stories are excellent, along with the great editing which for a book this size was an amazing feat. Don't you hate reading a book with a great premise but you can't quite get into the story because of all the errors and miscues? Don't worry, this isn't one of those books lol. Her Russian Defender is Grigory and Zia's love story, they were characters first introduced in The Nordic Lightning. I really enjoyed watching the characters coming into their own, Zia's personality a well counter balanced against Grigory's Alpha personality. I enjoyed the glimpse into Zia's girlfriends and her family dynamics. A story of this length didn't feel rushed and the flow wasn't stagnant. I highly recommend this story by Camilla Stevens and all of her other works.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 15, 2020
I was really excited for Grigory's story since Erik and Maya's book, so really happy to finally see him take centre stage.
Grigory was everything I wanted and more, the quiet mysterious type but so caring and such an alpha at the same time. I also liked Zia and her loving nature, and seeing her try to figure out her place in life while Grigory was patiently waiting until she was ready. This was a bit more of a slow burn than the other books but I think it felt true to the characters and it didn't burn for too long before we finally get to see them together.
Like all of the books in this series the couple was great, both sweet and hot and there was a big lump of drama thrown in. There is so much I could say about this book, but simply put it was an engaging story with loveable characters from the main characters to their friends and family. Absolutely loved it!
I received an advanced copy and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Grigory was everything I wanted and more, the quiet mysterious type but so caring and such an alpha at the same time. I also liked Zia and her loving nature, and seeing her try to figure out her place in life while Grigory was patiently waiting until she was ready. This was a bit more of a slow burn than the other books but I think it felt true to the characters and it didn't burn for too long before we finally get to see them together.
Like all of the books in this series the couple was great, both sweet and hot and there was a big lump of drama thrown in. There is so much I could say about this book, but simply put it was an engaging story with loveable characters from the main characters to their friends and family. Absolutely loved it!
I received an advanced copy and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
January 16, 2020
Will Grigory and Zia find their happily ever after
I loved the story of Grigory and Zia in the International Legacies Romance series. Grigory noticed Zia at a party where Zia met her future boyfriend. Yet when Zia catches her boyfriend in bed with someone else, she is all of a sudden looking for a couch to sleep on. Enter her best friend’s boyfriend who knows Grigory had a thing for Zia and Zia is rooming with Grigory while he is traveling for 5 days for hockey games. Will Grigory find himself being played by a Russian father looking out for his daughter and his own brother’s welfare? Or will Grigory choose Zia for his future? You will love the turmoil that Grigory finds himself in and love Zia’s effect on Grigory.
I loved the story of Grigory and Zia in the International Legacies Romance series. Grigory noticed Zia at a party where Zia met her future boyfriend. Yet when Zia catches her boyfriend in bed with someone else, she is all of a sudden looking for a couch to sleep on. Enter her best friend’s boyfriend who knows Grigory had a thing for Zia and Zia is rooming with Grigory while he is traveling for 5 days for hockey games. Will Grigory find himself being played by a Russian father looking out for his daughter and his own brother’s welfare? Or will Grigory choose Zia for his future? You will love the turmoil that Grigory finds himself in and love Zia’s effect on Grigory.
January 16, 2020
This is another book in Camilla’s International Legacy series. This storyline is about Zia and Grigory's. I enjoyed this couple and root for them early on. Grigory and Zia's were first introduced to readers in The Nordic Lightning. It was nice to watch them grow personally. Grigory;’s alpha male, take no prisoners attitude versus Zia’s loving nature was a pleasure to read. The secondary characters were also well developed and interesting. I loved the length but I did feel the story read a bit too slow at the start. Either way, it was an emotional yet enjoyable and entertaining read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 16, 2020
I loved the story line and the characters in this book, but it dragged on too long in the first half of the book to fully enjoy it. I loved Grigory as the big, bad silent alpha type. He has past family issues from growing up in Russia, but he made it and now strives to get his brother to a good life. I was also rooting for Zia and her getting her life together and moving on from her ex. The author hints from the beginning about the underworld and Grigory's debt to them, but it felt contrived. It's not until the second half for it to be explained and it felt forced.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 13, 2020
This book has all the feels, the plot is well developed and the characters are complex and relatable. Definitely a 1-click book!
Zia Franklin is a massage therapist and yoga instructor raised by hippy parents. She walks in on her boyfriend cheating with a 17 year old and promptly punches him in the nose and moves out. Her friend Maya arranges for her to stay with her boyfriend's teammate Grigory Mikhailov. Grigory has been attracted to Zia since he met her months ago. Zia ends up moving in with a friend but Grigory convinces her to move back in with him. Their relationship goes beyond friends but Grigory gets blackmailed into marrying a Russian woman who claims to be pregnant with his child. Grigory's situation finally gets resolved and he and Zia are able to get their HEA.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Zia Franklin is a massage therapist and yoga instructor raised by hippy parents. She walks in on her boyfriend cheating with a 17 year old and promptly punches him in the nose and moves out. Her friend Maya arranges for her to stay with her boyfriend's teammate Grigory Mikhailov. Grigory has been attracted to Zia since he met her months ago. Zia ends up moving in with a friend but Grigory convinces her to move back in with him. Their relationship goes beyond friends but Grigory gets blackmailed into marrying a Russian woman who claims to be pregnant with his child. Grigory's situation finally gets resolved and he and Zia are able to get their HEA.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 14, 2020
Received an ARC for an honest review.
I loved Zia & Grigory's story! Two strong-willed people who know how to soften the other one up. Zia was a good character because even though she dealt with some bad boyfriends from her past, she didn't let her turn her off completely from love. It actually made her smart with the choices she made when it came to Grigory. And although Grigory was this big, string hockey player, he was still soft when needed to be & hard in all the right places! There was love, definitely some suspense & heartfelt moments throughout the book. Camilla Stevens is becoming one of my new favorite authors.
I loved Zia & Grigory's story! Two strong-willed people who know how to soften the other one up. Zia was a good character because even though she dealt with some bad boyfriends from her past, she didn't let her turn her off completely from love. It actually made her smart with the choices she made when it came to Grigory. And although Grigory was this big, string hockey player, he was still soft when needed to be & hard in all the right places! There was love, definitely some suspense & heartfelt moments throughout the book. Camilla Stevens is becoming one of my new favorite authors.
January 13, 2020
I loved Zia and Grigory's story!!! Though they seemed to mix like oil and water in the beginning, they were the perfect match for each other. It was wonderful to revisit with Erik and Maya from The Nordic Lightning as well. I love NYC as the backdrop since I was born in Brooklyn and I still live in NYC, I can absolutely relate and visualize the scenery along with the characters. I love this series and I eagerly look forward to reading more from this author. I voluntarily read this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 13, 2020
Teddy Bear 4 ½ stars - Grigory is a fierce defender to the Blades hockey team but to Zia, he’s a teddy bear. It’s another great story from this author. Zia and Grigory tried not to act on their attraction for each other but the pages sizzled when they did. It was so adorable once they gave in to their feelings but it was cut short by commitments Grigory made to take care of his younger brother in Russia. I wasn’t sure how the conflict will be resolved but it was a good ending. [I received an advanced copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.]
January 18, 2020
This was a great read with characters that are well developed and engaging and have chemistry. The storyline is well written and flows smoothly.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 23, 2020
Somewhat it was not what I thought it was going to be...NYET!!!
So this is Grigory's story and man was it not what I though this was going to be. I really thought this was going to be about not only the hockey player but about how rich he was and how connected he was to one of the biggest families in Russia which would have made this story have intrigue, money, suspense and of course defiance and love. What we got was so out of our league that at time it was a bit bland, boring and down right lame and stupid!
Zia, the lover of all that is nice and earthy, and hippy. Has a good heart, with a very good sense of always seeing the good in every one. Cute, smart, down to earth.
Grigory, strong built and fierce. He sees the world for what it's worth and nothing else.
What I didn't like in this story was that, 1) his popularity was downplayed. He had more recognition or was talked about more in Sowerson, Erik's book than his book. 2) he was portrayed has this big brooding man, who is actually a beautiful specimen of a man and a very soft one at that. 3) it felt as if he was not important at all. 4) can someone explain to me the part of Katrina in all of that? Was it to put in drama and a spin and have these two separated when in actual they never did? Was it for mystery? What was it actually? 5) he could have had an everyday job and he would have been more intriguing that now with this very popular sport may I add here in the USA and specially when he visited Russia (where right in the airport he would have been recognized and kids would have been so happy to see that dreams can come true). Hell even if he had taken upon itself to upgrade where he use to play hockey when he was young, or start a charity, Orr something...
In all honesty this story felt forced and not at all frowned right thru. In the first book, we read bout this defense men, and thought that this was going to be an equally popular athlete as Erik's was but nope, NYET, nada, zip zero. Instead we got ourselves a some what lukewarm story. Shoot the epilogue was more fascinated than the actual story. Zia's family dynamics bought the crown home though and it was nice to have everyone finally paired. Katie and Rain was a beautiful addition. Now what is happening to Demetria? Is she gonna get her own or she will just be lost in the fray of these internationals legacies? Hopefully this will be better to round it all up to end this series with a bang. Maybe one of these other players are going to need to have to seek financial advice, maybe...and Zuru will get his due diligence and we will finally read a little bit more about Marcus, Gabbrielle's hubby... Wishful thinking...until next time!!!
So this is Grigory's story and man was it not what I though this was going to be. I really thought this was going to be about not only the hockey player but about how rich he was and how connected he was to one of the biggest families in Russia which would have made this story have intrigue, money, suspense and of course defiance and love. What we got was so out of our league that at time it was a bit bland, boring and down right lame and stupid!
Zia, the lover of all that is nice and earthy, and hippy. Has a good heart, with a very good sense of always seeing the good in every one. Cute, smart, down to earth.
Grigory, strong built and fierce. He sees the world for what it's worth and nothing else.
What I didn't like in this story was that, 1) his popularity was downplayed. He had more recognition or was talked about more in Sowerson, Erik's book than his book. 2) he was portrayed has this big brooding man, who is actually a beautiful specimen of a man and a very soft one at that. 3) it felt as if he was not important at all. 4) can someone explain to me the part of Katrina in all of that? Was it to put in drama and a spin and have these two separated when in actual they never did? Was it for mystery? What was it actually? 5) he could have had an everyday job and he would have been more intriguing that now with this very popular sport may I add here in the USA and specially when he visited Russia (where right in the airport he would have been recognized and kids would have been so happy to see that dreams can come true). Hell even if he had taken upon itself to upgrade where he use to play hockey when he was young, or start a charity, Orr something...
In all honesty this story felt forced and not at all frowned right thru. In the first book, we read bout this defense men, and thought that this was going to be an equally popular athlete as Erik's was but nope, NYET, nada, zip zero. Instead we got ourselves a some what lukewarm story. Shoot the epilogue was more fascinated than the actual story. Zia's family dynamics bought the crown home though and it was nice to have everyone finally paired. Katie and Rain was a beautiful addition. Now what is happening to Demetria? Is she gonna get her own or she will just be lost in the fray of these internationals legacies? Hopefully this will be better to round it all up to end this series with a bang. Maybe one of these other players are going to need to have to seek financial advice, maybe...and Zuru will get his due diligence and we will finally read a little bit more about Marcus, Gabbrielle's hubby... Wishful thinking...until next time!!!
April 9, 2020
Tugging at the heart strings, left me with a smile
In the about section this book seems to be a sport romance, and although Grigory does play ice hockey, I did no feel as if this was the main focus of the book. Grigory and Zia get together in a fairly undramatic way, even if Zia is fighting the attraction. Grigory acknowledges his attraction but is left unsure as to the wisdom of pursuing the relationship. I felt that both characters showed immense growth - not only in their relationship but also in accepting the realities of themselves and their place in the world.
*spoiler alert*
There were some mafia shenanigans that impacted the couple. This was resolved in such a mature way that I felt even stronger about the couples HEA. It was truely deserved. I felt a nice positive buzz after reading this book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
In the about section this book seems to be a sport romance, and although Grigory does play ice hockey, I did no feel as if this was the main focus of the book. Grigory and Zia get together in a fairly undramatic way, even if Zia is fighting the attraction. Grigory acknowledges his attraction but is left unsure as to the wisdom of pursuing the relationship. I felt that both characters showed immense growth - not only in their relationship but also in accepting the realities of themselves and their place in the world.
*spoiler alert*
There were some mafia shenanigans that impacted the couple. This was resolved in such a mature way that I felt even stronger about the couples HEA. It was truely deserved. I felt a nice positive buzz after reading this book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 19, 2022
I really didn't care for this one at all. The plot, the characters, the romance...none of it was really for me.
Characters:
We get some of the same from The Nordic Lightning, including Maya and Erik, Gabby and Demetria, and of course the main couple, Zia and Grigory. I was initally excited to read about Grigory, but realized he was actually going to be paired with Zia and was a little put off. I didn't think they had anything in common at all in the previous story, and I really didn't care that much about Zia's character in TNL. I was sorta hoping he'd get hooked up with Demitria instead. She seems to actually have a personality.
Zia is...hm. Not my kind of heroine. Her lackadaisical, zen approach to life is kind of infuriating especially where her lovers were involved. She constantly attracted the worst types and seemed to make excuses for people who constantly did crappy stuff. On the rare occasions she acted accordingly (and rightfully) to these actions, she felt bad about it. Sigh. I don't really mind free loving hippy dippy characters but Zia was just annoying and silly. Maya had more meat to her IMO, and like I mentioned, I was more interested in Demetria's story and why she felt she had to work so hard and was so critical of men.
Grigory wasn't awful but he wasn't good either. He doesn't have Erik's charm, and while I realize he doesn't need to be the same character, he could stand to have more of a personality than brooding, silent, and huge. That's really all there is to him. He's huge and he really likes Zia, even though they met only briefly at a party months before. I was somewhat reminded of Viggo and Scarlett from Maureen Smith's The Swede, another hockey romance with an alternative black female lead. But the difference in that book was that Viggo and Scarlett at least interacted a lot more when they first met than Zia and Grigory did. There wasn't a spark there, just us being told he found her attractive and wanted her.
The romance is pretty dull. One minute, Zia is wanting to live a single life (for good reasons) after her breakup with her pathetic, nasty ex. The next, she wants to live in Grigory's house and decorate it and have his children. This goes back and forth for a while before they start dating and it's irritating. I wish she'd stuck to being single simply because of the unnecessary "drama" that happens later.
I'd give this book 1.5 stars; the writer does have pretty good prose and the premise wasn't terrible; it was just boring after a while and there didn't really seem to be any chemistry between the characters. Zia is a Maya from Girlfriends knock off and Grigory is a Russian stereotype. I mostly stayed because of Matzo Ball and because I wanted to see if it ever got any better. It didn't. The ending is a rush-there's literally a chapter that has one sentence in it-and there's a HEA, which I don't mind, but it just seems so off key. Once again, no chemistry.
I probably won't read anything else by this author, which is a shame because TNL was promising.
Characters:
We get some of the same from The Nordic Lightning, including Maya and Erik, Gabby and Demetria, and of course the main couple, Zia and Grigory. I was initally excited to read about Grigory, but realized he was actually going to be paired with Zia and was a little put off. I didn't think they had anything in common at all in the previous story, and I really didn't care that much about Zia's character in TNL. I was sorta hoping he'd get hooked up with Demitria instead. She seems to actually have a personality.
Zia is...hm. Not my kind of heroine. Her lackadaisical, zen approach to life is kind of infuriating especially where her lovers were involved. She constantly attracted the worst types and seemed to make excuses for people who constantly did crappy stuff. On the rare occasions she acted accordingly (and rightfully) to these actions, she felt bad about it. Sigh. I don't really mind free loving hippy dippy characters but Zia was just annoying and silly. Maya had more meat to her IMO, and like I mentioned, I was more interested in Demetria's story and why she felt she had to work so hard and was so critical of men.
Grigory wasn't awful but he wasn't good either. He doesn't have Erik's charm, and while I realize he doesn't need to be the same character, he could stand to have more of a personality than brooding, silent, and huge. That's really all there is to him. He's huge and he really likes Zia, even though they met only briefly at a party months before. I was somewhat reminded of Viggo and Scarlett from Maureen Smith's The Swede, another hockey romance with an alternative black female lead. But the difference in that book was that Viggo and Scarlett at least interacted a lot more when they first met than Zia and Grigory did. There wasn't a spark there, just us being told he found her attractive and wanted her.
The romance is pretty dull. One minute, Zia is wanting to live a single life (for good reasons) after her breakup with her pathetic, nasty ex. The next, she wants to live in Grigory's house and decorate it and have his children. This goes back and forth for a while before they start dating and it's irritating. I wish she'd stuck to being single simply because of the unnecessary "drama" that happens later.
I'd give this book 1.5 stars; the writer does have pretty good prose and the premise wasn't terrible; it was just boring after a while and there didn't really seem to be any chemistry between the characters. Zia is a Maya from Girlfriends knock off and Grigory is a Russian stereotype. I mostly stayed because of Matzo Ball and because I wanted to see if it ever got any better. It didn't. The ending is a rush-there's literally a chapter that has one sentence in it-and there's a HEA, which I don't mind, but it just seems so off key. Once again, no chemistry.
I probably won't read anything else by this author, which is a shame because TNL was promising.
January 30, 2020
Nice but
Too nice. As much as I like Grigory, a real Alpha Male, even if he is a bit too overprotective particularly with his brother, Zia irritated me. All this sweetness was too much. I like someone with a bit of a bite and ambition. She kept talking about wanting her own studio but I couldn’t feel the hustle. I mean come on, after the Jason fiasco, she’s remorseful because she punched him? Also, as much as she has no interest in material things (even if she Is now CEO of a franchise and married to a very wealthy man), I found her too judgmental of both her siblings and her friend career choices in finance. The whole forced marriage against protection was somewhat cliché and what really annoyed me was Zia, immediate retreat instead of trying to help find a solution or at least stand by him. He was the one who still had to pursue her with the walks etc. I didn’t understand the story with Yuri. I thought the idea when Grigory was growing up was that both him and his brother would emigrate, instead in the end it sounded like Yuri always wanted to be a professor in Moscow. Lastly, the whole everybody had daughters was over the top. It would have been nice to have Grigory coaching his kids any type of sport. One positive thing though is how she was dealing with her eldest daughter insecurities. As an aside, we got a physical description of the whole family bar Rain and Katie. I would have been nice to read about both side of the family together and how the cultural shock worked out. A final irritant to me, I know Russian is a difficult language to learn, however after all these years together (not told exactly how many but at least 8), I would have like to hear that Zia made an effort to learn at least some.
Too nice. As much as I like Grigory, a real Alpha Male, even if he is a bit too overprotective particularly with his brother, Zia irritated me. All this sweetness was too much. I like someone with a bit of a bite and ambition. She kept talking about wanting her own studio but I couldn’t feel the hustle. I mean come on, after the Jason fiasco, she’s remorseful because she punched him? Also, as much as she has no interest in material things (even if she Is now CEO of a franchise and married to a very wealthy man), I found her too judgmental of both her siblings and her friend career choices in finance. The whole forced marriage against protection was somewhat cliché and what really annoyed me was Zia, immediate retreat instead of trying to help find a solution or at least stand by him. He was the one who still had to pursue her with the walks etc. I didn’t understand the story with Yuri. I thought the idea when Grigory was growing up was that both him and his brother would emigrate, instead in the end it sounded like Yuri always wanted to be a professor in Moscow. Lastly, the whole everybody had daughters was over the top. It would have been nice to have Grigory coaching his kids any type of sport. One positive thing though is how she was dealing with her eldest daughter insecurities. As an aside, we got a physical description of the whole family bar Rain and Katie. I would have been nice to read about both side of the family together and how the cultural shock worked out. A final irritant to me, I know Russian is a difficult language to learn, however after all these years together (not told exactly how many but at least 8), I would have like to hear that Zia made an effort to learn at least some.
March 26, 2022
Camilla Stevens delivers with her IR romance novels (I recommend her book Tease) . Im enjoying her "International Legacies" series, particularly this, The Nordic Lightning: An International Legacies Romance and my current read The Luxembourg Betrayal since they are tied with the friendship of four college besties Gabrielle, Demetria, Maya, and Zia (the sweet heroine in this story). I love reading about the couples learning about each other's cultures (I would love to see her write couples delving into Asian and African cultures). I appreciate that the girlfriends are not obnoxious and over-the-top when observing one another's situations and offering advice. I love that their appearances in each other's stories are kept at a minimum so that the books are easily standalones. Lastly, I LOVE how the author doesn't place dragged on conflict on miscommunication that can be easily resolved.
So far, Her Russian Defender is my favorite out of the three stories involving these women. Zia's character is well written and I love how even the most hostile characters in the book are drawn to her calm and friendly nature in some way. It was a very well-done love story with some bratva shenanigans and a satisfying epilogue that managed not to turn into the typical millionaire alpha bae romance.
So far, Her Russian Defender is my favorite out of the three stories involving these women. Zia's character is well written and I love how even the most hostile characters in the book are drawn to her calm and friendly nature in some way. It was a very well-done love story with some bratva shenanigans and a satisfying epilogue that managed not to turn into the typical millionaire alpha bae romance.
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