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The Thomas Flair
A M/M Summer Games Romance
It’ll take more than medals to mend their relationship.
Diabetic gymnast Sol Ashvili, an alternate for the 2016 men’s Olympic gymnastics squad, had one thing on his agenda for the last day of competition in Rio—corner teammate Tony Thomas, his best friend for half his life, and finally confess he’d been in love with him for years. But instead of returning to the team suite after winning his second silver medal, Tony jetted out of Rio and turned his back on everything: a college degree, gymnastics meets… and Sol. The first two Sol could forgive—barely. The last? Not a chance.
Commentators had a name for Tony’s crowd-pleasing, no-holds-barred, high-octane gymnastics—the Thomas Flair. After the 2016 Games, he parlayed that reputation into a career as an internet celebrity, specializing in extreme sports and risky stunts. His decision to battle his way back into competition shape for a chance at the 2020 Olympic team is extreme all right, but now he must survive the biggest risk of all: facing Sol again after his epic betrayal in Rio.
For the sake of the team and the reputation of US men’s gymnastics, Sol and Tony struggle to leave the past behind and find a way to work together. But as the Games draw closer, they’re starting to realize that finding their way back to each other may be the only way for both of them to truly fly high.
The Thomas Flair is a 64,000-word enemies to lovers second-chance rom-com set around the Tokyo Olympics that might have been, featuring a thrill-seeker who needs reining in, a perfectionist who needs to let go, redemption, rowdy teammates, and a few gymnastics moves that will never make it into the Code of Points.
It’ll take more than medals to mend their relationship.
Diabetic gymnast Sol Ashvili, an alternate for the 2016 men’s Olympic gymnastics squad, had one thing on his agenda for the last day of competition in Rio—corner teammate Tony Thomas, his best friend for half his life, and finally confess he’d been in love with him for years. But instead of returning to the team suite after winning his second silver medal, Tony jetted out of Rio and turned his back on everything: a college degree, gymnastics meets… and Sol. The first two Sol could forgive—barely. The last? Not a chance.
Commentators had a name for Tony’s crowd-pleasing, no-holds-barred, high-octane gymnastics—the Thomas Flair. After the 2016 Games, he parlayed that reputation into a career as an internet celebrity, specializing in extreme sports and risky stunts. His decision to battle his way back into competition shape for a chance at the 2020 Olympic team is extreme all right, but now he must survive the biggest risk of all: facing Sol again after his epic betrayal in Rio.
For the sake of the team and the reputation of US men’s gymnastics, Sol and Tony struggle to leave the past behind and find a way to work together. But as the Games draw closer, they’re starting to realize that finding their way back to each other may be the only way for both of them to truly fly high.
The Thomas Flair is a 64,000-word enemies to lovers second-chance rom-com set around the Tokyo Olympics that might have been, featuring a thrill-seeker who needs reining in, a perfectionist who needs to let go, redemption, rowdy teammates, and a few gymnastics moves that will never make it into the Code of Points.
246 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 27, 2020
30 people are currently reading
170 people want to read
About the author
E.J. Russell
54 books398 followersE.J. Russell –grace, mother of three, recovering actor–writes romance in a rainbow of flavors. Count on high snark, low angst and happy endings.
Reality? Eh, not so much.
Reality? Eh, not so much.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
October 6, 2021
A complimentary copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.
This was sweet. No overly done drama, no arguments or misunderstanding (aside from intro drama), just two guys who have been best friends since age 12 who discover they love each other and are ready to be together.
Some of the dialogue was cheesy and maybe too much dialogue, but overall nice and I smiled in a few places. I think more stories like this are needed, gay athletes have such a stigma around them, it's a taboo topic, though based on recent Google searches because of this book, I have to say it looks like things are getting better for gay Olympians.
https://www.outsports.com/2018/12/27/...
https://www.out.com/out-exclusives/20...
I had hoped Sol and Tony would kiss on the podium, but alas no. How their relationship was revealed was not cool, but how they handled it - proud, no holds barred, in love - was awesome!! I'd love to see a story like this make it to the big screen or tv series. This world needs goodness and love like these characters represent.
Is this the best story ever written? No. Is this a sweet romance with two men unafraid to love each other? Big yes.
I do recommend this for those looking for an easy and happy read. No crying here! 😁
Overall rate 4 stars!!
This was sweet. No overly done drama, no arguments or misunderstanding (aside from intro drama), just two guys who have been best friends since age 12 who discover they love each other and are ready to be together.
Some of the dialogue was cheesy and maybe too much dialogue, but overall nice and I smiled in a few places. I think more stories like this are needed, gay athletes have such a stigma around them, it's a taboo topic, though based on recent Google searches because of this book, I have to say it looks like things are getting better for gay Olympians.
https://www.outsports.com/2018/12/27/...
https://www.out.com/out-exclusives/20...
I had hoped Sol and Tony would kiss on the podium, but alas no. How their relationship was revealed was not cool, but how they handled it - proud, no holds barred, in love - was awesome!! I'd love to see a story like this make it to the big screen or tv series. This world needs goodness and love like these characters represent.
Is this the best story ever written? No. Is this a sweet romance with two men unafraid to love each other? Big yes.
I do recommend this for those looking for an easy and happy read. No crying here! 😁
Overall rate 4 stars!!
August 8, 2020
*Received A Copy To Review From The Author*
I am so sad that I didn't enjoy this. It reads easy. But my problem was with characterization. Three years ago Tony ghosts on his best friend/man he loves. They have no contact for those years by TONY'S CHOICE. Then Tony comes back and has the nerve to be annoyed and chastize Sol for not welcoming him with open arms. And SOL APOLOGIZES TO HIM. I cannot. I can't. Tony doesn't have to apologize, he had his reasons (much as I think it was ridiculous), but he does owe some humility and explanation and HE DOESN'T GET TO BE THE AFFRONTED PARTY. I canNOT. That's all it took for me. I was soured. If that hadn't happened I would've liked it. It would've been a pleasant read. But it never came back from that for me.
I am so sad that I didn't enjoy this. It reads easy. But my problem was with characterization. Three years ago Tony ghosts on his best friend/man he loves. They have no contact for those years by TONY'S CHOICE. Then Tony comes back and has the nerve to be annoyed and chastize Sol for not welcoming him with open arms. And SOL APOLOGIZES TO HIM. I cannot. I can't. Tony doesn't have to apologize, he had his reasons (much as I think it was ridiculous), but he does owe some humility and explanation and HE DOESN'T GET TO BE THE AFFRONTED PARTY. I canNOT. That's all it took for me. I was soured. If that hadn't happened I would've liked it. It would've been a pleasant read. But it never came back from that for me.
July 25, 2021
This story of a gymnast with diabetes, and his best friend-teammate was warm and sweet and real - I love gymnastics and the descriptions of the sport were well done. There some arguments and misunderstandings but they were grounded in reality and didn't feel overblown for drama. Very likeable main characters, and a feel-good romance.
August 4, 2020
This was just the perfect feel good sports romance that I needed in a year when we were meant to have the summer Olympics but didn't!
Sol and Tony are both male gymnasts and the very best of friends, hoping to achieve their dreams of going to the Olympics for Team USA. They get to go to Rio as alternates, and ultimately Tony does get to compete. However, after Rio things change and it's another four years before Tony and Sol reunite, now hoping to compete at Tokyo.
I loved reading about Sol and Tony and their second chance - both for the Olympics and with each other. Both of them want more than just friendship with the other, and I loved their progress from Sol being cold, to hesitant friendship, and then to lovers.
You can definitely tell the author knows her stuff with gymnastics - terms, the apparatuses, and techniques are all written in great detail here. And I loved that Sol is diabetic and we get to see him handle his medical condition all while competing. You can tell that this is all near and dear to the author, and I loved reading about it.
Overall, this is just a feel-food story, it makes you yearn to see something like this really happen at the (hopefully) 2021 Olympics, and not gonna lie - I wouldn't mind if we made men's gymnastics a bit sexier, too!
Can't wait for more from this author!
I received an arc in exchange for an honest review.
Sol and Tony are both male gymnasts and the very best of friends, hoping to achieve their dreams of going to the Olympics for Team USA. They get to go to Rio as alternates, and ultimately Tony does get to compete. However, after Rio things change and it's another four years before Tony and Sol reunite, now hoping to compete at Tokyo.
I loved reading about Sol and Tony and their second chance - both for the Olympics and with each other. Both of them want more than just friendship with the other, and I loved their progress from Sol being cold, to hesitant friendship, and then to lovers.
You can definitely tell the author knows her stuff with gymnastics - terms, the apparatuses, and techniques are all written in great detail here. And I loved that Sol is diabetic and we get to see him handle his medical condition all while competing. You can tell that this is all near and dear to the author, and I loved reading about it.
Overall, this is just a feel-food story, it makes you yearn to see something like this really happen at the (hopefully) 2021 Olympics, and not gonna lie - I wouldn't mind if we made men's gymnastics a bit sexier, too!
Can't wait for more from this author!
I received an arc in exchange for an honest review.
August 11, 2020
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.5 stars
E.J. Russell’s sports-themed romance, The Thomas Flair, gives us a taste of some delicious young athletes and their attempt to put others first before their own needs. Tony and Sol have been friends since they were young and as time has passed, their relationship has changed. What neither knows is they both feel more than just friendship for each other, but before they can act on it, the world comes tumbling down around Tony, bringing with it shame and a desperate need to run from the idea that he has taken away Sol’s chance at getting a medal. Four years later both men have changed, but their feelings haven’t.
Read Sammy’s review in its entirety here.
4.5 stars
E.J. Russell’s sports-themed romance, The Thomas Flair, gives us a taste of some delicious young athletes and their attempt to put others first before their own needs. Tony and Sol have been friends since they were young and as time has passed, their relationship has changed. What neither knows is they both feel more than just friendship for each other, but before they can act on it, the world comes tumbling down around Tony, bringing with it shame and a desperate need to run from the idea that he has taken away Sol’s chance at getting a medal. Four years later both men have changed, but their feelings haven’t.
Read Sammy’s review in its entirety here.
August 10, 2020
4.5 Stars
When we first meet up with our main characters, Sol and Tony, they’re at the tail end of Tony’s events in the 2016 Olympics in Rio. Tony’s dad drops a bombshell on him, and the after-effects are life-altering. Fast forward to almost four years, and the gang's all back together, gearing up for the 2020 Olympics. Not everyone is happy about it, either. Between Sol’s anger for being tossed aside by Tony, and the inner turmoil Tony battles with, these boys have some issues to work through.
I found Sol and Tony to be very likable, and when they were finally able to really communicate, they were able to see that their friendship could be more. I felt for Tony. His father was something else, his new coach was borderline over the top tyrannical with his coaching style. He had a lot of people yelling at him, but not many looking after his well being. Sol struggled with having to watch him during practice, because he wanted to step in and make it better. When the coach finally went too far, and was barred from being there, he became revengeful. Whatever happened to just slinking off with your tail between your legs? Ugh. Tony deserves a break from it all, in my opinion. I loved how attentive Sol and Tony were to each other. You could feel and see their connection.
This was an enjoyable book. It was the perfect weekend read. It had drama, but not too much. Same with angst. The romance wasn’t over the top either. In this setting, it wouldn’t have felt realistic. While their romance was a big part of the story, their Olympic journey was a bigger portion. I felt like Sol having diabetes was an interesting layer to the story, and I can see how it could be encouraging to read about a diabetic gymnast who happens to be an Olympian. I would happily recommend this book to anyone looking for a feel-good book with an encouraging storyline.
***Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure. A review wasn’t a requirement. ***
When we first meet up with our main characters, Sol and Tony, they’re at the tail end of Tony’s events in the 2016 Olympics in Rio. Tony’s dad drops a bombshell on him, and the after-effects are life-altering. Fast forward to almost four years, and the gang's all back together, gearing up for the 2020 Olympics. Not everyone is happy about it, either. Between Sol’s anger for being tossed aside by Tony, and the inner turmoil Tony battles with, these boys have some issues to work through.
I found Sol and Tony to be very likable, and when they were finally able to really communicate, they were able to see that their friendship could be more. I felt for Tony. His father was something else, his new coach was borderline over the top tyrannical with his coaching style. He had a lot of people yelling at him, but not many looking after his well being. Sol struggled with having to watch him during practice, because he wanted to step in and make it better. When the coach finally went too far, and was barred from being there, he became revengeful. Whatever happened to just slinking off with your tail between your legs? Ugh. Tony deserves a break from it all, in my opinion. I loved how attentive Sol and Tony were to each other. You could feel and see their connection.
This was an enjoyable book. It was the perfect weekend read. It had drama, but not too much. Same with angst. The romance wasn’t over the top either. In this setting, it wouldn’t have felt realistic. While their romance was a big part of the story, their Olympic journey was a bigger portion. I felt like Sol having diabetes was an interesting layer to the story, and I can see how it could be encouraging to read about a diabetic gymnast who happens to be an Olympian. I would happily recommend this book to anyone looking for a feel-good book with an encouraging storyline.
***Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure. A review wasn’t a requirement. ***
August 1, 2020
Amazing love story!
It is a second-chance, friends-to-lovers romance between USA gymnasts. Everything takes place during Olympic games which makes the story even more exciting.
I am a huge fan of male gymnastics so this story was a must read for me. What is more, I LOVE E.J.Russell writing style, her books always let me forget about real life.
This time we have a lovely story that is full of friendship and sport.
This book is ful of wonderful characters, all guys are different, but they all feel like real people - they have their own plans, fears and dreams. Relationship between Tony and Sol was inevitable, they were meant to be together right from the start. Their transition from best friends to lovers felt natural and believable. I loved how Mrs. Russell showed that everyone can play sports and be successful, regardless of diseases (aka conditions as Sol said) or sexual orientation. Although there are many books whose characters are gay, few of them are about gymnastics, and even less about such important sport event as the Olympics. Maybe if there was more stories like this one, more people would realize that sport should only be about talent, skills and performance.
It was an easy, fast read without much drama. It was sweet and enjoyable - a perfect book for summer, especially now when we all miss sport events. I loved description of training and then final competition, I loved how I could almost feel like I was right there with team USA. I adored epilogue - it was all sooo typical "Tony and Sol" :D
* I was gifted an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review *
It is a second-chance, friends-to-lovers romance between USA gymnasts. Everything takes place during Olympic games which makes the story even more exciting.
I am a huge fan of male gymnastics so this story was a must read for me. What is more, I LOVE E.J.Russell writing style, her books always let me forget about real life.
This time we have a lovely story that is full of friendship and sport.
This book is ful of wonderful characters, all guys are different, but they all feel like real people - they have their own plans, fears and dreams. Relationship between Tony and Sol was inevitable, they were meant to be together right from the start. Their transition from best friends to lovers felt natural and believable. I loved how Mrs. Russell showed that everyone can play sports and be successful, regardless of diseases (aka conditions as Sol said) or sexual orientation. Although there are many books whose characters are gay, few of them are about gymnastics, and even less about such important sport event as the Olympics. Maybe if there was more stories like this one, more people would realize that sport should only be about talent, skills and performance.
It was an easy, fast read without much drama. It was sweet and enjoyable - a perfect book for summer, especially now when we all miss sport events. I loved description of training and then final competition, I loved how I could almost feel like I was right there with team USA. I adored epilogue - it was all sooo typical "Tony and Sol" :D
* I was gifted an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review *
August 7, 2024
I really didn’t have much expectations about this book and is not that it was bad exactly, it more than it was pretty meh.
It could have easily been better but the whole conflict of Tony ghosting Sol for FOUR YEARS was solved in the most anticlimactic way, like one moment Sol hates him/is incredibly sad of being abandoned and the next he apologizes to him for being mean and they get together.
I’m giving it 3 starts because I’m watching the Olympics and I love the pommel horse dude from team USA and so this book is perfectly on theme.
It could have easily been better but the whole conflict of Tony ghosting Sol for FOUR YEARS was solved in the most anticlimactic way, like one moment Sol hates him/is incredibly sad of being abandoned and the next he apologizes to him for being mean and they get together.
I’m giving it 3 starts because I’m watching the Olympics and I love the pommel horse dude from team USA and so this book is perfectly on theme.
July 30, 2020
With the strange state our world is currently in, this book did a great job of bringing a little bit of the Olympics to life when we otherwise would’ve missed out. I absolutely adored both MCs (especially Sol) and thought that they worked so well together. There was very little relationship angst once the story got gong, and instead there was just love and support while two men reached their goals. I honestly really enjoyed all the focus on the actual Olympics that we got to see because the relationship was fairly settled. Russell did a great job of putting you on the mat in Tokyo for the Olympics that never was.
August 10, 2020
I love watching just about every type of sport. Among my favorites are Hockey, Baseball, Basketball and of course watching the Olympics/Summer & Winter. So being able to read books that are sports related is huge!
I wasn't sure how I'd like The Thomas Flair because gymnastics isn't up there on my favorites lists and I really didn't know that much about it. E.J. Russell is one of my go to authors so I just had to give this a try and it didn't disappoint. She did a great job explaining the events without making my brain shut down instead I found myself excited reading this.
The romance is really sweet and the MCs are lovable. This was a quick easy read with very little angst and a beautiful HEA!
TAGS
-- Sports/ Gymnastics/Olympics -- quick easy read -- sweet -- best friends to combatants to lovers -- how not to be a parent -- friends/teammates -- loved the MCs... Sol & Tony -- read in one sitting
October 22, 2021
good premise, not so good execution. undercut the angst almost immediately.
Read
June 24, 2021DNF at 32%.
I might go back to this one day but I’m really not feeling it right now.
Sol and Tony have been apart for three years after Tony completely ghosts Sol, and they are reunited at the olympic training camp. Sol is understandably mad at Tony and for some reason is made to look like the bad guy and HE apologises for causing tension between them in the gym. Sol had every right to be mad at Tony, they were best friends and he was in love with him. Tony was in love with him too, but Sol didn’t know that. And then Tony ghosts Sol, for the stupidest reason. Sol did nothing wrong but he loses his best friend over olympic/familial drama???
The part I got up to was them hooking up and to me that happened waaaay too quickly. Sol should’ve made Tony for one, apologies and secondly, work for it. He pretty much presented himself on a silver platter.
It sucks because I think this book has a lot of promise but I just can’t get over the fact that Tony could leave Sol so easily, Sol could forgive Tony (there were no apologies actually…) and that they could get together so easily.
EH
I might go back to this one day but I’m really not feeling it right now.
Sol and Tony have been apart for three years after Tony completely ghosts Sol, and they are reunited at the olympic training camp. Sol is understandably mad at Tony and for some reason is made to look like the bad guy and HE apologises for causing tension between them in the gym. Sol had every right to be mad at Tony, they were best friends and he was in love with him. Tony was in love with him too, but Sol didn’t know that. And then Tony ghosts Sol, for the stupidest reason. Sol did nothing wrong but he loses his best friend over olympic/familial drama???
The part I got up to was them hooking up and to me that happened waaaay too quickly. Sol should’ve made Tony for one, apologies and secondly, work for it. He pretty much presented himself on a silver platter.
It sucks because I think this book has a lot of promise but I just can’t get over the fact that Tony could leave Sol so easily, Sol could forgive Tony (there were no apologies actually…) and that they could get together so easily.
EH
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 28, 2023
Friends to enemies to lovers and a second chance romance are the backbone of this story. Whilst I personally don't think Tony did enough in the way of explanation or apologising to Sol for his reason for ghosting him for nearly 4 years, once they re-established their relationship the story moved smoothly.
Plenty of gymnastics action gave it the feel of an Olympics.
Plenty of gymnastics action gave it the feel of an Olympics.
August 6, 2020
3.5 stars
This romance might fill the gap a bit if you’re missing the Olympics this summer.
The Olympics is a key part of the storyline. Gymnasts Sol and Tony have been friends since they were kids, but Sol decides to tell Tony he wants to be more while they are both at the Rio Olympics, Tony as a US team member and Sol as an alternate. When Tony learns some upsetting news, he bails on Rio—and ghosts Sol in the process. Four years later, when Tony decides to return to competition for the 2020 Games in Tokyo, he and Sol reconnect, as friends, teammates, and lovers, against the backdrop of training and the Olympics themselves.
Overall, I enjoyed the book. I kind of rolled my eyes at Tony’s reason for ghosting Sol, which I thought didn’t entirely make sense, and Sol is way more forgiving than I would expect anyone to be in his situation. So, the beginning of the novel was a little rough for me. But Sol and Tony are really great as a couple once they are together, and it was easy to root for them to get their HEA. The two of them have moments that are pretty adorable. (Just an example: When Sol suggests he might “reward” Tony if he sticks his dismounts, Tony’s response is “Don’t offer me sex for performance. I’ll feel so cheap. Motivated, but cheap.” LOL.) Plus, if you like gymnastics, there’s a lot of actual discussion of the sport and Olympic competition in addition to their romance.
As a diabetic, I really appreciated the author’s realistic handling of Sol’s diabetes. Sometimes authors throw illnesses into their books for the sake of drama, and it’s kind of an afterthought to the actual plot. But the story here includes references throughout the narrative to Sol’s efforts to keep his glucose levels steady in a way that really highlights that managing the disease is a daily effort. It’s a difficult balancing act to regulate activity, insulin, and food intake, even more so for an elite athlete like Sol.
Recommended for readers who enjoy sports and friends-to-lovers romance.
A copy of this book was provided for review; all opinions expressed are my own.
This romance might fill the gap a bit if you’re missing the Olympics this summer.
The Olympics is a key part of the storyline. Gymnasts Sol and Tony have been friends since they were kids, but Sol decides to tell Tony he wants to be more while they are both at the Rio Olympics, Tony as a US team member and Sol as an alternate. When Tony learns some upsetting news, he bails on Rio—and ghosts Sol in the process. Four years later, when Tony decides to return to competition for the 2020 Games in Tokyo, he and Sol reconnect, as friends, teammates, and lovers, against the backdrop of training and the Olympics themselves.
Overall, I enjoyed the book. I kind of rolled my eyes at Tony’s reason for ghosting Sol, which I thought didn’t entirely make sense, and Sol is way more forgiving than I would expect anyone to be in his situation. So, the beginning of the novel was a little rough for me. But Sol and Tony are really great as a couple once they are together, and it was easy to root for them to get their HEA. The two of them have moments that are pretty adorable. (Just an example: When Sol suggests he might “reward” Tony if he sticks his dismounts, Tony’s response is “Don’t offer me sex for performance. I’ll feel so cheap. Motivated, but cheap.” LOL.) Plus, if you like gymnastics, there’s a lot of actual discussion of the sport and Olympic competition in addition to their romance.
As a diabetic, I really appreciated the author’s realistic handling of Sol’s diabetes. Sometimes authors throw illnesses into their books for the sake of drama, and it’s kind of an afterthought to the actual plot. But the story here includes references throughout the narrative to Sol’s efforts to keep his glucose levels steady in a way that really highlights that managing the disease is a daily effort. It’s a difficult balancing act to regulate activity, insulin, and food intake, even more so for an elite athlete like Sol.
Recommended for readers who enjoy sports and friends-to-lovers romance.
A copy of this book was provided for review; all opinions expressed are my own.
August 9, 2020
My Rating : 4🌟
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Kindle/ GRR/ August2020
#mabookyardchallengeAug2020 #ARCaugust #advancedaugustreadathon
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Thank you GRR and the author for the review copy which lets me give you my unbiased opinion.
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This book follows our two best friends : the safe playing, shy, diabetic Sol and the confident, risker, adrenaline junkie Tony, as they navigate their feelings and their past to redeem their way back during 2020 olympic stage gymnastics. It's besties to enemies to lovers with lots of angst, and lots of pent up emotions.
.
First, this book had so many technical terminologies about Gymnastics, that I had a great time looking it up and watching videos of the forms that they discussed. Gymnastics is one of my favorite sport to watch during olympics and it was amazing to read a story based on the amount of effort that goes into the sport as well.
.
Second, I loved how the characters has contrasting personalities, had so much to figure out, but put their passion and dreams before their fights and misunderstandings so that the team can do their best. The feeling of being in a team was done really well! I really liked the supporting characters and how they added spice to the story as well.
.
Now coming to the storyline and character arcs, I think Tony and Sol both got their own character development in a different way. Their arc was influenced by each other and it was really heartwarming to see them grow. It talked about being diabetic in the sports industry and how our main character Sol was an inspiration to so many people when he discloses that information during the Olympics. I was sitting at the edge of my seat whenever the characters did anything on floor and it gave me an immense satisfaction everytime they nailed a routine.
.
Overall, this book has so many new things I hadn't experienced before, plus one of my favorite tropes that it was impossible not to fall in love. If you like sports romance, best friend to lovers, I think you'll love this!
.
Kindle/ GRR/ August2020
#mabookyardchallengeAug2020 #ARCaugust #advancedaugustreadathon
.
Thank you GRR and the author for the review copy which lets me give you my unbiased opinion.
.
This book follows our two best friends : the safe playing, shy, diabetic Sol and the confident, risker, adrenaline junkie Tony, as they navigate their feelings and their past to redeem their way back during 2020 olympic stage gymnastics. It's besties to enemies to lovers with lots of angst, and lots of pent up emotions.
.
First, this book had so many technical terminologies about Gymnastics, that I had a great time looking it up and watching videos of the forms that they discussed. Gymnastics is one of my favorite sport to watch during olympics and it was amazing to read a story based on the amount of effort that goes into the sport as well.
.
Second, I loved how the characters has contrasting personalities, had so much to figure out, but put their passion and dreams before their fights and misunderstandings so that the team can do their best. The feeling of being in a team was done really well! I really liked the supporting characters and how they added spice to the story as well.
.
Now coming to the storyline and character arcs, I think Tony and Sol both got their own character development in a different way. Their arc was influenced by each other and it was really heartwarming to see them grow. It talked about being diabetic in the sports industry and how our main character Sol was an inspiration to so many people when he discloses that information during the Olympics. I was sitting at the edge of my seat whenever the characters did anything on floor and it gave me an immense satisfaction everytime they nailed a routine.
.
Overall, this book has so many new things I hadn't experienced before, plus one of my favorite tropes that it was impossible not to fall in love. If you like sports romance, best friend to lovers, I think you'll love this!
Read
July 29, 20204.25 stars
“The Thomas Flair” by E.J. Russell is an adult contemporary gay romance that features gymnasts Sol Ashvili and Tony Thomas, who must work their way through the abrupt ending of their previous friendship in order to do the best they can for the men’s Olympic gymnastic team. Hopefully the diligence and passion will be enough to win a medal…in their private lives as well as their public ones.
I’m not usually a big sports fan, but I do like to watch both men’s and women’s gymnastics competitions occasionally. This story did a great job of evoking the excitement and enthusiasm of the Olympic events while giving insight into some of the behind-the-scenes challenges that have to be overcome as well. I wasn’t quite convinced of the disposition of Thomas’ relationship with his father but I definitely liked the multiculturalism of the characters and wish there was a little more flavor from their ethnicities. It took a while for me to warm up to Thomas, given his past behavior, but I feel he did redeem himself.
I love stories that both educate and entertain me, and this one definitely did both. I hadn’t thought about the challenges involved with having a medical condition such as diabetes when one is a dedicated athlete, and this sensitized me to the extra steps that must be taken as well as the considerations that must be accounted for. I always enjoy the way this author draws the reader into a story and tempts one with vivid characters, and this was no exception. I can’t wait to find out what new story comes from that wonderfully fertile imagination.
A copy of this title was provided for review
“The Thomas Flair” by E.J. Russell is an adult contemporary gay romance that features gymnasts Sol Ashvili and Tony Thomas, who must work their way through the abrupt ending of their previous friendship in order to do the best they can for the men’s Olympic gymnastic team. Hopefully the diligence and passion will be enough to win a medal…in their private lives as well as their public ones.
I’m not usually a big sports fan, but I do like to watch both men’s and women’s gymnastics competitions occasionally. This story did a great job of evoking the excitement and enthusiasm of the Olympic events while giving insight into some of the behind-the-scenes challenges that have to be overcome as well. I wasn’t quite convinced of the disposition of Thomas’ relationship with his father but I definitely liked the multiculturalism of the characters and wish there was a little more flavor from their ethnicities. It took a while for me to warm up to Thomas, given his past behavior, but I feel he did redeem himself.
I love stories that both educate and entertain me, and this one definitely did both. I hadn’t thought about the challenges involved with having a medical condition such as diabetes when one is a dedicated athlete, and this sensitized me to the extra steps that must be taken as well as the considerations that must be accounted for. I always enjoy the way this author draws the reader into a story and tempts one with vivid characters, and this was no exception. I can’t wait to find out what new story comes from that wonderfully fertile imagination.
A copy of this title was provided for review
July 29, 2020
Sol Ashvili is an Olympic gymnast. He has been devotedly in love with his teammate and best friend for years. He desperately wants to confess and tell him how he feels on the last day of the Rio Olympics, but instead of basking in the warm after glow of his confession, he is left stranded by Tony, who just hops on a plane back home with his new agent leaving Sol with no explanation as to why he left so suddenly. Sol is left confused and heartbroken.
After Tony Thomas jetted out of the Olympic Village to turn pro and transform his individual success into adrenaline-fueled celebrity, he’d quit the team, quit school, quit gymnastic
and turned his back on his best friend and teammate.
But when he makes a decision to take part in the 2020 Olympics in Tokyo, he comes face to face with Sol, the man he betrayed years ago when he turned his back on him.
Will Sol forgive and forget? Or has Tony's betrayal make their friendship unsalvageable?
I absolutely loved this ! Both our MC's were imperfect in their own way, but when they come together they are unrivaled perfection. I loved how the author portrayed the 2020 Olympics in Tokyo. I actually felt as though I was there witnessing the actual event.
This was a nice friends to enemies to lovers, second-chance, sports romance.
After Tony Thomas jetted out of the Olympic Village to turn pro and transform his individual success into adrenaline-fueled celebrity, he’d quit the team, quit school, quit gymnastic
and turned his back on his best friend and teammate.
But when he makes a decision to take part in the 2020 Olympics in Tokyo, he comes face to face with Sol, the man he betrayed years ago when he turned his back on him.
Will Sol forgive and forget? Or has Tony's betrayal make their friendship unsalvageable?
I absolutely loved this ! Both our MC's were imperfect in their own way, but when they come together they are unrivaled perfection. I loved how the author portrayed the 2020 Olympics in Tokyo. I actually felt as though I was there witnessing the actual event.
This was a nice friends to enemies to lovers, second-chance, sports romance.
August 10, 2020
4.5 Stars!
Gymnastics has been one of my favorite Olympic sports ever since I started actively watching the Olympics back when I was 14, and E.J. Russell did a fantastic job not only giving us a believable scenario for a romance in this setting, but with the descriptions of all the routines and Sol's diabetes and maintaining a good balance between it all throughout the book.
I really liked Sol and Tony, they were really sweet together and I loved how much they supported each other and their teammates in their Olympic journey. They had great chemistry and it was a delight to see their relationship evolve once they finally gave in to their attraction for each other. Of course, there were moments in which I wanted to shake some sense into one or both of them, and I kind of wanted Tony to grovel a bit more, especially after how he ghosted Sol after the Rio Olympics, but for the most part, I just loved them together be it as friends, teammates or boyfriends.
I hated Tony's father and his trainer, Andrei, they were both horrible men.
Overall, this is a very entertaining read and if you, like me, are missing the Olympics this year, I'm sure you'll find it very enjoyable. Very recommendable!
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
Gymnastics has been one of my favorite Olympic sports ever since I started actively watching the Olympics back when I was 14, and E.J. Russell did a fantastic job not only giving us a believable scenario for a romance in this setting, but with the descriptions of all the routines and Sol's diabetes and maintaining a good balance between it all throughout the book.
I really liked Sol and Tony, they were really sweet together and I loved how much they supported each other and their teammates in their Olympic journey. They had great chemistry and it was a delight to see their relationship evolve once they finally gave in to their attraction for each other. Of course, there were moments in which I wanted to shake some sense into one or both of them, and I kind of wanted Tony to grovel a bit more, especially after how he ghosted Sol after the Rio Olympics, but for the most part, I just loved them together be it as friends, teammates or boyfriends.
I hated Tony's father and his trainer, Andrei, they were both horrible men.
Overall, this is a very entertaining read and if you, like me, are missing the Olympics this year, I'm sure you'll find it very enjoyable. Very recommendable!
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
July 30, 2020
The Thomas Flair is an enjoyable second chance romance. This EJ Russell read is a great standalone sports romance involving two gymnasts.
I love sports romances, so I definitely enjoyed falling into this one about Sol and Tony. It's their tale of being a closeted athlete and the complications of expectations, both in work and in personal life. The two men have a past. but Sol has to find a way to move forward and forgive Tony, all while dealing with the pressure of the Olympics and his continued health issues.
Sol has diabetes, taking the reader into his world and the effect having diabetes has on an athlete, making for an interesting aspect of this tale. The author does a great job addressing the issues involved and approaches it with care.
This is a story with plenty of outside influences as they try to fit into one another's worlds. And Tony, poor Tony has major issues with his controlling father.
The writing is good. It's written in 3rd place alternating pov, which makes it a little tougher for me to become fully engrossed in the characters. But I enjoy the characters and their journey.
The Thomas Flair is a story about learning to grab onto love and live for your own desires. EJ Russell definitely entertains throughout this intriguing tale.
I love sports romances, so I definitely enjoyed falling into this one about Sol and Tony. It's their tale of being a closeted athlete and the complications of expectations, both in work and in personal life. The two men have a past. but Sol has to find a way to move forward and forgive Tony, all while dealing with the pressure of the Olympics and his continued health issues.
Sol has diabetes, taking the reader into his world and the effect having diabetes has on an athlete, making for an interesting aspect of this tale. The author does a great job addressing the issues involved and approaches it with care.
This is a story with plenty of outside influences as they try to fit into one another's worlds. And Tony, poor Tony has major issues with his controlling father.
The writing is good. It's written in 3rd place alternating pov, which makes it a little tougher for me to become fully engrossed in the characters. But I enjoy the characters and their journey.
The Thomas Flair is a story about learning to grab onto love and live for your own desires. EJ Russell definitely entertains throughout this intriguing tale.
February 5, 2023
Not enough direct conflict.
The Thomas flair is so low angst that it almost has no conflict. There was potential for more direct conflict. The premise of broken promises and strained relationships that were once close was very promising. Tony especially had several abusive and narcissistic authority figures in his fizzled more than they created true obstacles. There was potential for this conflict to create poignant opportunities for boundary setting as well as character growth. Don't misunderstand me, there is character growth and some communication and boundary setting. I only mean to say that the emotional impact the story could have delivered didn't rise to the intensity I hoped for. Tony and Sol were both sweet and probably the only reason I wouldn't quite classify this story as boring.
The Thomas flair is so low angst that it almost has no conflict. There was potential for more direct conflict. The premise of broken promises and strained relationships that were once close was very promising. Tony especially had several abusive and narcissistic authority figures in his fizzled more than they created true obstacles. There was potential for this conflict to create poignant opportunities for boundary setting as well as character growth. Don't misunderstand me, there is character growth and some communication and boundary setting. I only mean to say that the emotional impact the story could have delivered didn't rise to the intensity I hoped for. Tony and Sol were both sweet and probably the only reason I wouldn't quite classify this story as boring.
August 4, 2020
🏆🏆🏆🏆
Chapter 1 is really good, it sucked me right into the story. After that, it was a struggle for a bit ... both MCs have serious emotional issues to face and it seems only one is doing so. Wrongdoings are deflected from the guilty party, and the story seems to be written so that the reader should feel more strongly for the antagonist.
Also, after four years of radio silence, Tony & Sol have barely started talking again and yet almost immediately fall into bed and a relationship together.
TᕼᗩT ᗷᗴIᑎᘜ ᔕᗩIᗪ _ _ _ _ _
I love that the focus isn’t solely on the budding romance between the the two MCs. The Olympic aspect is quite enjoyable and adrenaline pumping. While not an “omigosh-automatic-page-turner” I did like the book.
Chapter 1 is really good, it sucked me right into the story. After that, it was a struggle for a bit ... both MCs have serious emotional issues to face and it seems only one is doing so. Wrongdoings are deflected from the guilty party, and the story seems to be written so that the reader should feel more strongly for the antagonist.
Also, after four years of radio silence, Tony & Sol have barely started talking again and yet almost immediately fall into bed and a relationship together.
TᕼᗩT ᗷᗴIᑎᘜ ᔕᗩIᗪ _ _ _ _ _
I love that the focus isn’t solely on the budding romance between the the two MCs. The Olympic aspect is quite enjoyable and adrenaline pumping. While not an “omigosh-automatic-page-turner” I did like the book.
August 5, 2020
Well written friends to lovers romance.
This is an interesting, well written book, which had an entertaining storyline. It's a friends to enemies, to lovers book!
Sol and Tony , when they finally get together have great chemistry and are obviously meant for one another. I enjoyed their romance, and found myself quickly being drawn into their world. I loved the whole gymnastics element, kudos to Ms Russell for her brilliant descriptions of the MCs competitions. Obviously a lot of research had previously taken place.
Overall, the characters are interesting, well-developed and have chemistry. The story is interesting, well-written, and has a lovely HEA. Definitely worth a read, especially if you're missing the Olympics this time round.
This is an interesting, well written book, which had an entertaining storyline. It's a friends to enemies, to lovers book!
Sol and Tony , when they finally get together have great chemistry and are obviously meant for one another. I enjoyed their romance, and found myself quickly being drawn into their world. I loved the whole gymnastics element, kudos to Ms Russell for her brilliant descriptions of the MCs competitions. Obviously a lot of research had previously taken place.
Overall, the characters are interesting, well-developed and have chemistry. The story is interesting, well-written, and has a lovely HEA. Definitely worth a read, especially if you're missing the Olympics this time round.
August 8, 2021
Not enough sex scenes, and the dialogue was really bad. Also, I could not get over the fact that early on in the book, the leads settle their differences with... a handstand contest. That's the gymnastics equivalent of cheer-offs or riff-offs that might make for good drama but would never actually happen in real life.
While I was reading this, I immediately recognized Brody Malone ("Rahul") as the serious Stanford gymnast studying engineering, and then once it was mentioned that Sol was Korean American, I knew he had to be Yul Moldauer. Googled it and sure enough, the author has a blog post citing Moldauer and Donothan Bailey as her inspirations for Sol and Danny, respectively. So that was kind of cool that I spotted them.
While I was reading this, I immediately recognized Brody Malone ("Rahul") as the serious Stanford gymnast studying engineering, and then once it was mentioned that Sol was Korean American, I knew he had to be Yul Moldauer. Googled it and sure enough, the author has a blog post citing Moldauer and Donothan Bailey as her inspirations for Sol and Danny, respectively. So that was kind of cool that I spotted them.
August 3, 2020
This is a story with a lot of depth. Characters who are almost at the beginning of a real relationship when one of them 'ghosts' the other. Years later they reunite...and slowly... very slowly get their well deserved HEA. But it doesn't come easily.
You have injuries (real or fake?), feelings of guilt and abandonment, an abusive parent and coach, supportive teammates, teammates who block them getting closer, the demands of the Olympics and lots of interviews.
Some of the best scenes are those that center around the actual 'contests' at Olympic events. A great story for anyone who loves romance and endings in where the good guys finish first!
You have injuries (real or fake?), feelings of guilt and abandonment, an abusive parent and coach, supportive teammates, teammates who block them getting closer, the demands of the Olympics and lots of interviews.
Some of the best scenes are those that center around the actual 'contests' at Olympic events. A great story for anyone who loves romance and endings in where the good guys finish first!
August 5, 2020
Sol and Tony were great together. I loved the dynamic between the characters. The author obviously knows a lot about dealing with diabetes and the world of gymnastics. The storyline was great, a friends to enemies to lovers that made sense as the misunderstanding between them faded. I loved that Sol grew more confident throughout the book and that Tony was able to start to calm down. The other members of Team USA were great, I loved the way that all of the team interacted with one another. The scenes between Sol and Tony were steamy and great. I really enjoyed being able to see the Tokyo games even if they didn't happen in real life this year. I would recommend this book.
July 31, 2020
This was a very sweet read with not too much angst or drama. It's a nice story about two best friends who complement each other and are finally ready to take their relationship to the next level. Yes, there is an aspect of enemies-to-lovers, as well as second-chance, considering Tony left Sol four years ago. There are hurt feelings and a re-connection that needs to be established, but at their heart, Sol and Tony have always been in love, and there is no doubt they'll find their way to be together. A wonderful relationship with humour and heart, and a satisfying ending.
August 3, 2020
I loved the second chance at love story line. It was a quick read for me, but I felt it packed a lot into the story line. Sol is a great, likeable character and Tony is a risk taker. The secondary characters were very likeable, but I honestly didn’t like how pushy Tony’s father was. This was a great topic to read (Olympics) about especially with the way the world is at the moment. I Loved it, would definitely recommend!
I am voluntarily leaving a review form an ARC that I received. My reviews are solely based on my thoughts and opinions
I am voluntarily leaving a review form an ARC that I received. My reviews are solely based on my thoughts and opinions
July 26, 2020
This was a sweet low drama book. Thomas and Sol were friends for years through gymnastics but it all seemed to go wrong after the Rio Olympics. Thomas ghosted Sol and it hurt. Flash forward 4 years and the tryouts for the Tokyo Olympic men's gymnastics team when they find themselves thrown together again. Can they set aside their past hurts and work together for the team? Both guys have things they need to work through but this story works.
July 27, 2020
This was, in my opinion, a really well done sports romance between two Olympic athletes. I love how this book focused on the romance and the sport. In a lot of sports romances, I feel like the sport is just in the background. I felt like, in this book, the sport was just as important as the romance. I don't know much about gymnastics, but I enjoy watching it. It felt like I was there in Tokyo, watching the competition.
August 12, 2020
Beautiful
I loved this book not only does it focus on gymnastics which I love watching but it also deals with type 1 diabetes. The whole story arc is exceptional & wonderfully written. I loved both Sol & Tony & all the guys on the team. I felt the tension of the competition scenes had the right amount of jeopardy to them in fact this is an all round 5* read. I have read other novels by this author & again this novelist has another hit on her hands. Xx
I loved this book not only does it focus on gymnastics which I love watching but it also deals with type 1 diabetes. The whole story arc is exceptional & wonderfully written. I loved both Sol & Tony & all the guys on the team. I felt the tension of the competition scenes had the right amount of jeopardy to them in fact this is an all round 5* read. I have read other novels by this author & again this novelist has another hit on her hands. Xx
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