Reviews

This was a re-read, and this book is just as stunningly heartbreaking as it was the first time I read it. I absolutely love getting to spend more time with a couple after their "get together" book, and this one is a DOOZY. Reid handles Ilya's mental health struggles so well, and I think the normalization of therapy and medication (and how a partner cannot fix you if your brain chemistry is fighting you) is so so important. Truly following Shane and Ilya from Heated Rivalry into this book is truly watching them grow up and into amazing men and I absolutely adore their dynamic.

I laughed, I cried, I got turned on (I mean the trophy room scene?? please???), I cried again. Truly a book I will always recommend

Content Warnings

cassopeia's review

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emotional funny medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.75

lovelyslibrary's review

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5.0

5✨ An emotive, sweet, and angsty sequel to my favourite couple!!

I was endeared after reading Heated Rivalry, with both characters. I yearned for their happy ending! This book was filled with sweet (and hot) moments and explored their inner turmoil and conflict surrounding their situation, which btw, I was ready to rally the entire LGBTQ PLUS community in support of them because ain’t no damn way you’re giving them trouble.

They communicated so brilliantly and supported one another with open arms resulting in a healthy relationship built on trust and sooo much LOVE. The conversation surrounding mental health was navigated honestly and carefully. Their characters were equally as interesting. Ilya is funny, and confident, Shane is put together, and a little shy. The perfect combination.

And yall…the smut, I loved not only how comfortable they are with each other, but also…how much of a damn tease Ilya was and how Shane complimented that perfectly with his eagerness and bashed responses.

I wanted to headbutt most of Shane’s teammates and that old cretin Cowell (? forgot his name). I’m so glad they both found their place in the end, one where they could still thrive. The ending was perfect. Love them so much!! Such a good duology. Onto the next!

dani_blue's review

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emotional hopeful inspiring medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

emilylovesbooks94's review against another edition

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5.0

I didn't think it was possible for me to love Shane and Ilya more than I already did, but this story took me even higher. The sneaking around and forbidden aspect of their romance was fun in the first book, but this sequel is when I finally got to see how they settled into their long-distance relationship. I usually don't like to play favorites with main characters, but I'm making an exception this time because Ilya's journey SLAYED me. I teared up in public as I read about how much he was struggling, and that plane scene had me outright bawling because I couldn't handle the emotions it evoked. It was wonderful to watch as Ilya found balance in his life, made some new friends, reconnected with some old friends, and opened up to Shane about things he'd been suppressing for years. I immersed myself in this story with every fiber of my being, and I let the waves of emotions carry me all the way to the happy, victorious ending.

ever_after1020's review

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emotional funny hopeful sad medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.75

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