Reading this one while on my period was a mistake. While I loved Heated Rivalry for obvious reasons (and Ilya is still my favorite), I think this was the best book so far; Rachel's writing was clearly improved by the time she got to this. Watching Troy pull himself out of a deep depression and become comfortable with himself was so beautiful and the ending made me cry. (Plus I was SO HAPPY we avoided a 3rd act breakup).

I'm so excited to read TLG (and then to probably rewatch show again) and get Ilya's side of this.

I think so far I'd rank this second behind Heated Rivalry. It seems like a lot of people dislike this couple and the age gap but I really enjoyed the first 90% of this book. If it wasn't for the arbitrary 3rd act breakup, I would've rated it higher. There was definitely a more interesting way of getting these men to admit their feelings and finally get together for real.

Ilya continues assembling the gay avengers 🫡🏳️‍🌈

Tbh I didnt expect to like this one as much as I did. Getting to know Ryan Price and delve into his anxiety and mental health struggles felt so real. However Fabian, while I liked how sensitive and compassionate he was as a partner for Ryan, felt very one note to me. And the 3rd act breakup was SO unnecessary and felt like it was there just to hit the trope quota. I still was happily surprised with how quickly I inhaled this story. Ryan Price is such a sweetie and I'm glad he got a happy ending.

Also I absolutely SQUEALED every time Ilya showed up. Hes still my #1. Also that epilogue scene 👀😘