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Russian Bear #2
Happily Ever After
Mischa isn't stupid; he knows that happily ever afters only happen in fairytales. Still, he had thought that as soon as Tom got over the horrible assault that almost tore them apart, everything would be better. Perhaps not fairytale happy right away, but better. Instead, they seem to be falling apart, and quite spectacularly so.
What Mischa hadn't taken into account was the fact that violence have longtime consequences - consequences that are threatening to shake the very foundation of Tom and Mischa's relationship. Because Mischa can handle Tom's weakness, but he can't face his own. He doesn't have a choice, though. Not if they're going to make it.
As Mischa and Tom struggle to rebuild their relationship, it turns out that happily ever after is damn hard work. It's also wildly kinky, because Tom and Mischa have to build a new trust in the playroom as well. One scene at a time, Mischa and Tom explore their new limits, and that's the kind of work that Mischa likes. After all, that's what badass Doms do.
What Mischa hadn't taken into account was the fact that violence have longtime consequences - consequences that are threatening to shake the very foundation of Tom and Mischa's relationship. Because Mischa can handle Tom's weakness, but he can't face his own. He doesn't have a choice, though. Not if they're going to make it.
As Mischa and Tom struggle to rebuild their relationship, it turns out that happily ever after is damn hard work. It's also wildly kinky, because Tom and Mischa have to build a new trust in the playroom as well. One scene at a time, Mischa and Tom explore their new limits, and that's the kind of work that Mischa likes. After all, that's what badass Doms do.
168 pages, ebook
First published September 11, 2012
About the author
C.B. Conwy
18 books167 followersDoing relatively sane and responsible things during the day, I'm always looking forward to coming home to see what my characters have been up to. It’s only very rarely what I want them to do, but there you go. I have no problems whatsoever reading both Flaubert and smut (although not at the same time), and the only thing I like more than chocolate is a good comfort read.
To me, the best thing about writing is the rush; it’s almost a physical high when you’re writing and it’s going well. As for the worst part: Nobody ever told me that fictional characters do exactly as they please! All that talk about ‘the author’s intention’? This author is running around, desperately trying to figure out what my heroes want to do and then coaxing everybody into something vaguely resembling a consistent plot. Sigh.
To me, the best thing about writing is the rush; it’s almost a physical high when you’re writing and it’s going well. As for the worst part: Nobody ever told me that fictional characters do exactly as they please! All that talk about ‘the author’s intention’? This author is running around, desperately trying to figure out what my heroes want to do and then coaxing everybody into something vaguely resembling a consistent plot. Sigh.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
September 14, 2012
Review coming soon to The Armchair Reader.
The first book I read by CB Conwy was A Russian Bear. I loved it, but at the same time it traumatized me in some ways. There is one scene, earlier on in the book that deals with CBT (which makes it's return here). That's Cock and Ball Torture to those of you who are uninitiated to the book. I'm not sure if it's because I'm a guy (and not into that sort of play), but I couldn't handle it and fled the book, only to pick it up a few months later, wanting to finish and conquer my fears. To my surprise, nothing was that intense for me after that and I ended up loving the book. It remains one of my favorite m/m BDSM books, even over the sequel with a different couple, Alphabet Soup. I was really excited to see that the author was continuing the series with a sequel of the original couple, whose story really hadn't ended. The end of that first book is where this one picks up.
A Russian Bear tells the beginning of the story of Tom and Mischa. Their relationship evolves quickly, powering through scene after scene while Mischa initiates Tom into the scene. It's almost a who's who of sexual variety, with more types of BDSM and kink play than I've seen in any other book. At the end of the story, Tom is attacked and beaten in a hate crime and spends the end of the book guarded and removed, with Mischa unable to help and both unsure if the Dom/sub side of their relationship will ever come back to them while Tom is constantly afraid and Mischa refuses to hurt the boy he fell in love with.
Happily Ever After tells the rest of that story and lives up to the title. The book starts as they work through the issues the assault caused Tom and the wedge it forced into their relationship. They have to find a new way to work together, a new way of understanding each other and communicating. Finally, they realize that they're going to have to start over again, and once they do, their rediscovery of the play that brings them such intimacy shows them that their relationship has a real future.
This book is so much of a continuation of the book that I think only people who really liked the first book will be fans of this one. Not only because it is essentially the same story, but because it is really very similar to that first book. The majority of the story is again scene after scene, with a different variety of techniques and devices. I won't say they were boring, however. I didn't feel that they were as intense this time around, but that is perhaps because I've read more since that first book and am somewhat desensitized in comparison to before. In some ways, the scenes go further, especially because they have more history and therefore the scenes have a more impactful meaning.
I have the same difficulty with this book as I did the first one. Their relationship is so insular, with hardly any time outside the scene, that the ending seems surprising. The first book that was the assault, which seemed to come from nowhere. In this book, that is Tom's future as he finishes his master's degree. While we do get more time outside the house and their play this time around, with more visits to the club and time spent at the dojo, that doesn't have anything to do with preparing us for the ending and the issues they'll have to work through. Therefore, the end once again seemed to come out of the blue, and on top of that was dealt with rather hastily in the last 8% or so of the book. Otherwise, I still enjoyed this and am a fan of CB Conwy's writing and will encourage other fans to read this book. Anyone who liked A Russian Bear will want to read this and see the end of Mischa and Tom's story. Though there could always be more, this feels like the most natural end for them. Hopefully we can see Toby's story next.
The first book I read by CB Conwy was A Russian Bear. I loved it, but at the same time it traumatized me in some ways. There is one scene, earlier on in the book that deals with CBT (which makes it's return here). That's Cock and Ball Torture to those of you who are uninitiated to the book. I'm not sure if it's because I'm a guy (and not into that sort of play), but I couldn't handle it and fled the book, only to pick it up a few months later, wanting to finish and conquer my fears. To my surprise, nothing was that intense for me after that and I ended up loving the book. It remains one of my favorite m/m BDSM books, even over the sequel with a different couple, Alphabet Soup. I was really excited to see that the author was continuing the series with a sequel of the original couple, whose story really hadn't ended. The end of that first book is where this one picks up.
A Russian Bear tells the beginning of the story of Tom and Mischa. Their relationship evolves quickly, powering through scene after scene while Mischa initiates Tom into the scene. It's almost a who's who of sexual variety, with more types of BDSM and kink play than I've seen in any other book. At the end of the story, Tom is attacked and beaten in a hate crime and spends the end of the book guarded and removed, with Mischa unable to help and both unsure if the Dom/sub side of their relationship will ever come back to them while Tom is constantly afraid and Mischa refuses to hurt the boy he fell in love with.
Happily Ever After tells the rest of that story and lives up to the title. The book starts as they work through the issues the assault caused Tom and the wedge it forced into their relationship. They have to find a new way to work together, a new way of understanding each other and communicating. Finally, they realize that they're going to have to start over again, and once they do, their rediscovery of the play that brings them such intimacy shows them that their relationship has a real future.
This book is so much of a continuation of the book that I think only people who really liked the first book will be fans of this one. Not only because it is essentially the same story, but because it is really very similar to that first book. The majority of the story is again scene after scene, with a different variety of techniques and devices. I won't say they were boring, however. I didn't feel that they were as intense this time around, but that is perhaps because I've read more since that first book and am somewhat desensitized in comparison to before. In some ways, the scenes go further, especially because they have more history and therefore the scenes have a more impactful meaning.
I have the same difficulty with this book as I did the first one. Their relationship is so insular, with hardly any time outside the scene, that the ending seems surprising. The first book that was the assault, which seemed to come from nowhere. In this book, that is Tom's future as he finishes his master's degree. While we do get more time outside the house and their play this time around, with more visits to the club and time spent at the dojo, that doesn't have anything to do with preparing us for the ending and the issues they'll have to work through. Therefore, the end once again seemed to come out of the blue, and on top of that was dealt with rather hastily in the last 8% or so of the book. Otherwise, I still enjoyed this and am a fan of CB Conwy's writing and will encourage other fans to read this book. Anyone who liked A Russian Bear will want to read this and see the end of Mischa and Tom's story. Though there could always be more, this feels like the most natural end for them. Hopefully we can see Toby's story next.
November 24, 2013
This was a much better read for me then A Russian Bear. It still had kink i am not comfortable with reading. The difference for me in this follow up was how much of it there was. But, I have to admit there were "scenes" that I just didn't find interesting and or hot and skipped them.
Here Mischa and Tom and trying to deal with the affects of Tom’s attack. Considering their “scenes” involve so much pain, Mischa is hesitant to go there with Tom. How do these two find their way back to happiness? How do they help each other heal after such a assault.
This was a short and wonderful story. I enjoyed this and i am glad i stuck with it. This book gave me the HEA I wanted for them. I love these two guys…
3.5 stars.
November 19, 2013
What happens when a sub and his Dom lose their way? When external factors intrude on the trust they have built and make the way they relate to each other difficult or impossible? Tom and Mischa find out in this fourth book of the 'Russian Bear' series, and let me tell you, it is a tough stretch for them. Luckily, they still relate to each other as lovers, so they have something to fall back on, otherwise I would not have been willing to bet on the outcome.
Tom has had a hard time overcoming the assault he suffered (in book one), and thought he was pretty much over it. Physically, that may be true, but this book is about dealing with the mental and emotional consequences. While Tom is ready to return to their BDSM relationship (centered on pain and "coercion play" for him), Mischa turns out to have a different opinion. He cannot seem to deal with giving Tom the pain he craves, and it gets to the point where Tom is trying to tell Mischa what to do in a scene, trying to make him do what Tom wants. Of course, that will never work since it turns the BDSM part of their relationship on its head, but it shows how desperate Tom is getting. Add to that the fact that Tom is about to graduate and is afraid he'll have to leave Mischa for either a job or the PhD he wants, and it's clear why Tom is so messed up.
Mischa is finding that he has a weakness he never would have suspected to be a problem. Yes, the fact that Tom got hurt physically and was in such horrible pain for weeks makes him more hesitant to give Tom more pain (even though it is a different type). But what turns out to be the real issue is that the lover in him refuses to hurt Tom, while the sadistic Dom in him still craves their scenes as much as Tom does. As soon as that is clear (and it takes them a while to get there), the true work can begin.
And let me tell you, it takes a long time, and is hard work. Once scene is kinkier than the next, and I was fascinated by some of the proverbial light bulbs that came on as they each learned to understand themselves and their relationship better. And the ending is just perfect as far as I am concerned!
If you like Mischa and Tom from the 'Russian bear' series, if you enjoy reading about subs and Doms who have lost their way and need to figure out how to get back what they used to have, and if you're looking for a deliciously kinky read with some unusual scenes and deeply emotional revelations, then you will probably like this novel.
NOTE: This book was provided by Torquere Press for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Tom has had a hard time overcoming the assault he suffered (in book one), and thought he was pretty much over it. Physically, that may be true, but this book is about dealing with the mental and emotional consequences. While Tom is ready to return to their BDSM relationship (centered on pain and "coercion play" for him), Mischa turns out to have a different opinion. He cannot seem to deal with giving Tom the pain he craves, and it gets to the point where Tom is trying to tell Mischa what to do in a scene, trying to make him do what Tom wants. Of course, that will never work since it turns the BDSM part of their relationship on its head, but it shows how desperate Tom is getting. Add to that the fact that Tom is about to graduate and is afraid he'll have to leave Mischa for either a job or the PhD he wants, and it's clear why Tom is so messed up.
Mischa is finding that he has a weakness he never would have suspected to be a problem. Yes, the fact that Tom got hurt physically and was in such horrible pain for weeks makes him more hesitant to give Tom more pain (even though it is a different type). But what turns out to be the real issue is that the lover in him refuses to hurt Tom, while the sadistic Dom in him still craves their scenes as much as Tom does. As soon as that is clear (and it takes them a while to get there), the true work can begin.
And let me tell you, it takes a long time, and is hard work. Once scene is kinkier than the next, and I was fascinated by some of the proverbial light bulbs that came on as they each learned to understand themselves and their relationship better. And the ending is just perfect as far as I am concerned!
If you like Mischa and Tom from the 'Russian bear' series, if you enjoy reading about subs and Doms who have lost their way and need to figure out how to get back what they used to have, and if you're looking for a deliciously kinky read with some unusual scenes and deeply emotional revelations, then you will probably like this novel.
NOTE: This book was provided by Torquere Press for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
October 8, 2012
This review was originally written for Hearts on Fire Reviews and can also be found there.
If there is one thing I love about this author, it’s the way Conwy works through the eroticism, BDSM and the relationships. There are ups and downs, screaming matches, lots of loving and plenty of pain. It’s so my thing.
Mischa and Tom are back. After a bad experience Tom is a mess and while he’s got a handle on some aspects of his life, the fear as a constant companion did a number on his nerves and the dynamics in his relationship with Mischa. Mischa on the other hand isn’t handling it all that well either. As a Dom he’s feeling responsible and has trouble indulging in his needs as well as giving Tom what he desires.
There’s little plot in this book and what there is it revolves around the couple trying to regain what they’ve lost. It’s not always easy and the recovery road requires lots of scenes, but eventually they do get there and let me tell you – that path is scorching.
Their main ‘kink’ is pain. Mischa loves making Tom hurt and Tom just loves being hurt, but also seeing how much Mischa enjoys it. It’s something essential between them, a way how they complete each other and I loved reading about it.
Maybe it was just me, but I did end up reading this book for a few days and definitely not in one go. It’s not anything bad, just extremely hot. The scenes were amazing and had me squirming so badly… yeah, not going there. Anyway, I needed breaks and plenty of them and that is why I loved the first book in this series, A Russian Bear, and why I always look fondly at this author’s work. I don’t know who does pain as beautifully as C.B.Conwy and if you like it kinkier than most, this story is something you should definitely look into.
If there is one thing I love about this author, it’s the way Conwy works through the eroticism, BDSM and the relationships. There are ups and downs, screaming matches, lots of loving and plenty of pain. It’s so my thing.
Mischa and Tom are back. After a bad experience Tom is a mess and while he’s got a handle on some aspects of his life, the fear as a constant companion did a number on his nerves and the dynamics in his relationship with Mischa. Mischa on the other hand isn’t handling it all that well either. As a Dom he’s feeling responsible and has trouble indulging in his needs as well as giving Tom what he desires.
There’s little plot in this book and what there is it revolves around the couple trying to regain what they’ve lost. It’s not always easy and the recovery road requires lots of scenes, but eventually they do get there and let me tell you – that path is scorching.
Their main ‘kink’ is pain. Mischa loves making Tom hurt and Tom just loves being hurt, but also seeing how much Mischa enjoys it. It’s something essential between them, a way how they complete each other and I loved reading about it.
Maybe it was just me, but I did end up reading this book for a few days and definitely not in one go. It’s not anything bad, just extremely hot. The scenes were amazing and had me squirming so badly… yeah, not going there. Anyway, I needed breaks and plenty of them and that is why I loved the first book in this series, A Russian Bear, and why I always look fondly at this author’s work. I don’t know who does pain as beautifully as C.B.Conwy and if you like it kinkier than most, this story is something you should definitely look into.
September 13, 2012
I like 24/7 dom/sub relationships but something about this relationship seemed forced. I understand that Mischa and Tom had to work back up to regular scenes but when they started back to the heavy scenes, it didn't seem personable to me, even though I know it was. It turned into BDSM 101 and I don't like that, especially with two people who have been in a relationship for a while. Maybe it was the way the scenes were written. The scenes didn't seem to flow into there daily lives, it was more like they had their regular routine...break...scene...regular routine...break...scene. I saw someone with a shelf called 'something is missing', that's how I feel about this book. So for the mixed feelings, I give it 3 stars.
October 21, 2012
I'm not a BDSM fan, but this series has captured my attention and I really like Tom and Mischa.
I wanted to know how they got past Tom's attack in the previous book, and I have to say, such a sweet and cute ending!
I did skim most of the sex , but even doing that it was still a great read for fans of the first book, and we get a few glimpses of CK and Andy.
I wanted to know how they got past Tom's attack in the previous book, and I have to say, such a sweet and cute ending!
I did skim most of the sex , but even doing that it was still a great read for fans of the first book, and we get a few glimpses of CK and Andy.
July 24, 2017
Although a lot of relationship building in a BDSM relationship happens in a scene, I would have liked fewer scenes. They felt sensationalist with "what can we do now that's different" and yet there were TWO enema scenes. I also don't advocate BDSM as a substitute for proper counselling.
I liked the characters for the most part. I liked that they were trying to figure out how to overcome Tom's issues even if I didn't like their solution.
I liked the characters for the most part. I liked that they were trying to figure out how to overcome Tom's issues even if I didn't like their solution.
August 9, 2013
I thoroughly enjoyed this sequel to the original A Russian Bear, and the apparent finale of the series. Mischa and Tom are perfect together, one a pain slut and one a sadist. Both derive so much pleasure from their scenes together and it's evident that they are very much in love. I especially loved the happy ending, I was surprised but delighted.
This story opens where A Russian Bear left off. In looking back over my review of that story, I realized that it ended somewhat abruptly after Tom was hurt and, even though it's been 9 months since I read it, I was able to immediately get right into the storyline on this one. I'm so glad the author wrote this story the way she did. It was very helpful to see how the MCs faced Tom's past trauma and how they began to work through that to re-establish trust and to redefine Tom's limits. I enjoyed watching Mischa push Tom's boundaries and equally enjoyed Tom's awakening awareness of his own strengths and limits.
This is a terrific series and I highly recommend it to anyone who either enjoys BDSM or who wants to learn more about it.
This story opens where A Russian Bear left off. In looking back over my review of that story, I realized that it ended somewhat abruptly after Tom was hurt and, even though it's been 9 months since I read it, I was able to immediately get right into the storyline on this one. I'm so glad the author wrote this story the way she did. It was very helpful to see how the MCs faced Tom's past trauma and how they began to work through that to re-establish trust and to redefine Tom's limits. I enjoyed watching Mischa push Tom's boundaries and equally enjoyed Tom's awakening awareness of his own strengths and limits.
This is a terrific series and I highly recommend it to anyone who either enjoys BDSM or who wants to learn more about it.
September 21, 2012
I loved to meet Mischa and Tom again, and I especially loved to see them truely happy together. This was fitting, fulfilling and satisfying. Kinky, too, but it's Mischa and Tom after all isn't it...;-)
September 21, 2012
What a fitting HEA, I especially loved the epilogue; talk about an adaptive dom:)
February 4, 2013
I just love Mischa and Tom......could read about them all day :-)
October 28, 2012
Mischa's return to his delicious sadistic, kinky self in the second half pushed it up to four.
June 16, 2016
Oh I love those guys, they are perfect together. This is such a great series, I highly recommend it!
May 16, 2021
I read this and the third book in quick succession, so they are sort of blurred together in my mind. I was happy to see more of the enema play. Turns out I am a sucker for a dom playing with feelings of humiliation and pain, and being so clear about it to the (masochistic) sub (with a humiliation kink).
The way he would make it clear that the enema itself wasn't what turned him on, rather it was the act of "forcing" his partner to experience pain (of a kind that the partner didn't in and of itself find sexy, unlike the pain he got from other scenes) and the fact that the sub was always deeply embarrassed by it. *That's* what got the dom off. *swoons*
Interesting characters, and excellent acknowledgment of what someone might find a tame scene in some circumstances would be too overwhelming to contemplate in others. It's the intersection of mood, personnel kink preferences, blood sugar, memories/prior experiences, the personalities at play, and how tired you are, etc etc that all determine the way a scene will play out.
The way he would make it clear that the enema itself wasn't what turned him on, rather it was the act of "forcing" his partner to experience pain (of a kind that the partner didn't in and of itself find sexy, unlike the pain he got from other scenes) and the fact that the sub was always deeply embarrassed by it. *That's* what got the dom off. *swoons*
Interesting characters, and excellent acknowledgment of what someone might find a tame scene in some circumstances would be too overwhelming to contemplate in others. It's the intersection of mood, personnel kink preferences, blood sugar, memories/prior experiences, the personalities at play, and how tired you are, etc etc that all determine the way a scene will play out.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 24, 2020
Building things up again in the aftermath of Tom's attack is hard work and the book shows it, it's working through guilt and hurt that you didn't know was there. And most of all gaining trust again in yourself.
It's full of steam and emotions all mixed up together, where things had just started out in the first, things between them are confirmed and stronger, even as they struggle.
I enjoyed reading about them much more in this one than the previous book, their personalities blossoms in their dynamic.
On a side note, I love Toby, as he pops up and pushes Mishca's buttons just enough to have them bicker and at the same time is such a good friend to them both.
It's full of steam and emotions all mixed up together, where things had just started out in the first, things between them are confirmed and stronger, even as they struggle.
I enjoyed reading about them much more in this one than the previous book, their personalities blossoms in their dynamic.
On a side note, I love Toby, as he pops up and pushes Mishca's buttons just enough to have them bicker and at the same time is such a good friend to them both.
June 5, 2017
I loved the first book about Tom and Mischa and was equally happy to return to a sequel about them. This story focuses on the path of healing and getting beyond the attack against Tom. It was interesting and probably very realistic to see that Mischa was as vulnerable as Tom in some ways. The attack affected him and he couldn’t deal with his own perceived weakness. They needed to work hard to rebuild their relationship and the trust necessary to be Dom/sub and I loved witnessing that journey.
August 27, 2017
Re-read 2017: A+
It was high time to reread this duet and I can't await the sequel which has been announced on the author's website. Best kink evavhh, and a drama free great love story.
Dear CB Conwy
I think you may have spoiled me forever for a number of BDSM (gay and het) novels out there I previously might have found entertaining if not outstanding.
As it is, I totally fell in love with Mischa and Tom and would love to have another fix, because they became one of my favourite m/m couples ever.
Before I continue, let me tell that for the longest time I made a wide berth around A Russian Bear because I associated the cover with some raunchy bear story where the sub is supposed to call his master daddy *shudder*, not that the blurb was all that supporting either. Additionally, the fine art of designing alluring and enticing covers that make me want to buy the book IMMEDIATELY, Torquere Press hasn't mastered yet.
Be it as it is, A Russian Bear and its sequel Happily Ever After deal strongly with the element of pain play, even though the words sadist and masochist are only mentioned once (as far as I remember) and not in the most favourable way. Mischa is a sadist in his dom mode and boy does he enjoy inflicting pain and truly excels at it, but what’s important to say is that - despite some very extreme things – he is a safe player first and foremost and knows his craft. What makes him so special is his, for lack of a better word, human and warm nature. He meets Tom and somehow this young, inexperienced man who doesn't know squat about BDSM, totally enthrals him and he falls deeply and irrevocably in love and shows it. He is caring, loving and very much capable of both loving the sub and the man outside of the bedroom who is more than a nice twink, but very much ambitious, goal-oriented, strong and self-reliant. What is shown even better in the second novel, after they both went through a serious crisis, is how Mischa is allowed to have a breakdown, to show weakness, fear and anguish. He is a deeply tender and caring man and despite the hard pain play that is part of their life and both of them crave to experience, there is no shortness of caring tenderness, soft kisses and lovemaking.
Tom is a very special sub who takes to BDSM like a duck to water. What makes him so outstanding is this ambiguity between being deeply aroused by Mischa's scenes and simultaneously being embarrassed by it. However, what makes him so strong is that he is too proud and self-confident to hide himself and his needs and wants, but voices clearly what he desires. He is a struggling art student who has worked very hard to come this far, very proud of his accomplishments and definitely not the type who would be happy to be only Mischa’s kept pet.
I never liked BDSM novels that were all about "training" the sub how to kneel and stand properly, when to say yes and no and dealing out punishments in case the sub departs from the strictest of protocols. I find that frankly boring and everything BUT erotic and mostly skipped those parts. The D/s dynamics in A Russian Bear is very easy and without a lot of protocol. Mischa and Tom mesh so well together which is what made it so difficult for me to enjoy any other BDSM novels I tried to read afterwards (DNF-ed quite a number of them!).
Some reviews mention there was too much sex in the novels if there is such a thing. Personally, I become bored by too much sex easily and more often than not skip those scenes, but not so in this case. Maybe because they are so great together, or the sex scenes were outstanding. I do not know, but I read every single word in this romance and did not want to skip one word. However, I definitely wouldn't recommend these novels to BDSM newbies, they wouldn’t have worked for me ten years ago, that’s for sure!
The reason why I ultimately go with an A- are more or less two pain play scenes which were rather hefty and not only freaked the sub out but also me. Nothing gory like blood play or needles (ick, not sexy at all) but I perceived those scenes as more hurtful than arousing to the sub. Maybe I just don't get the concept of a masochist that clearly as they pushed my personal comfort zones quite a bit. But what's most important is that I never got lost, I might have been freaked out for a few pages here and there but my love for those two guys was definitely stronger and I am so so happy to have had the courage to read them. Thank you, CB Conwy!
It was high time to reread this duet and I can't await the sequel which has been announced on the author's website. Best kink evavhh, and a drama free great love story.
Dear CB Conwy
I think you may have spoiled me forever for a number of BDSM (gay and het) novels out there I previously might have found entertaining if not outstanding.
As it is, I totally fell in love with Mischa and Tom and would love to have another fix, because they became one of my favourite m/m couples ever.
Before I continue, let me tell that for the longest time I made a wide berth around A Russian Bear because I associated the cover with some raunchy bear story where the sub is supposed to call his master daddy *shudder*, not that the blurb was all that supporting either. Additionally, the fine art of designing alluring and enticing covers that make me want to buy the book IMMEDIATELY, Torquere Press hasn't mastered yet.
Be it as it is, A Russian Bear and its sequel Happily Ever After deal strongly with the element of pain play, even though the words sadist and masochist are only mentioned once (as far as I remember) and not in the most favourable way. Mischa is a sadist in his dom mode and boy does he enjoy inflicting pain and truly excels at it, but what’s important to say is that - despite some very extreme things – he is a safe player first and foremost and knows his craft. What makes him so special is his, for lack of a better word, human and warm nature. He meets Tom and somehow this young, inexperienced man who doesn't know squat about BDSM, totally enthrals him and he falls deeply and irrevocably in love and shows it. He is caring, loving and very much capable of both loving the sub and the man outside of the bedroom who is more than a nice twink, but very much ambitious, goal-oriented, strong and self-reliant. What is shown even better in the second novel, after they both went through a serious crisis, is how Mischa is allowed to have a breakdown, to show weakness, fear and anguish. He is a deeply tender and caring man and despite the hard pain play that is part of their life and both of them crave to experience, there is no shortness of caring tenderness, soft kisses and lovemaking.
Tom is a very special sub who takes to BDSM like a duck to water. What makes him so outstanding is this ambiguity between being deeply aroused by Mischa's scenes and simultaneously being embarrassed by it. However, what makes him so strong is that he is too proud and self-confident to hide himself and his needs and wants, but voices clearly what he desires. He is a struggling art student who has worked very hard to come this far, very proud of his accomplishments and definitely not the type who would be happy to be only Mischa’s kept pet.
I never liked BDSM novels that were all about "training" the sub how to kneel and stand properly, when to say yes and no and dealing out punishments in case the sub departs from the strictest of protocols. I find that frankly boring and everything BUT erotic and mostly skipped those parts. The D/s dynamics in A Russian Bear is very easy and without a lot of protocol. Mischa and Tom mesh so well together which is what made it so difficult for me to enjoy any other BDSM novels I tried to read afterwards (DNF-ed quite a number of them!).
Some reviews mention there was too much sex in the novels if there is such a thing. Personally, I become bored by too much sex easily and more often than not skip those scenes, but not so in this case. Maybe because they are so great together, or the sex scenes were outstanding. I do not know, but I read every single word in this romance and did not want to skip one word. However, I definitely wouldn't recommend these novels to BDSM newbies, they wouldn’t have worked for me ten years ago, that’s for sure!
The reason why I ultimately go with an A- are more or less two pain play scenes which were rather hefty and not only freaked the sub out but also me. Nothing gory like blood play or needles (ick, not sexy at all) but I perceived those scenes as more hurtful than arousing to the sub. Maybe I just don't get the concept of a masochist that clearly as they pushed my personal comfort zones quite a bit. But what's most important is that I never got lost, I might have been freaked out for a few pages here and there but my love for those two guys was definitely stronger and I am so so happy to have had the courage to read them. Thank you, CB Conwy!
July 24, 2013
Happily Ever After by CB Conwy explores the truth that trusting your partner and recognizing when to let go is critical to not only healing but maintaining a relationship that is always moving forward. After, Mischa's partner Tom is severely beaten, his recovery comes full circle and he seems ready to slip back into the unique dynamic they have in their partnership--that of Dom and submissive. Mischa, however, still has real doubts that Tom is ready to be pushed physically, acknowledging that he feels Tom is still too emotionally fragile to handle the intensity of their life in their BDSM playroom.
Tom, on the other hand, is almost palpably wired over his need to be taken beyond the boundaries Mischa has set for them.He is tired of living with fear and knows that if Mischa will just step up--be the Dom he is born to be, that Tom will ultimately be released from the fears that still threaten to overwhelm him.
And so, author CB Conwy gives us her delicious and kinky twist on the age old problem most long term relationships suffer at some time in their history--ennui. A form of taking the other person for granted, thinking we know exactly how our partner is wired and exactly what is best for them without ever uttering a single question to find out if we are right.
How does the author keep this type of story from becoming just one boring confrontation after another? She throws in some heated sexual scenes, a variety of kinky playroom scenarios and a bit of bondage--which, in my opinion, never hurts! (No pun intended.) CB Conwy does BDSM lovemaking with flair--and undeniable sizzle.
We watch as Tom finally pushes Mischa to realize that it is his own fears of not being enough, of not being able to protect and care for his submissive that is actually the root of the problems these two men are having both in the bedroom and in everyday life. It is not Tom who must now face his demons, but Mischa who must come to terms with the fact that he cannot protect Tom every moment, that there are things that will always be beyond his control and that as much as he loves Tom , he could have done nothing to prevent Tom's assault.
IF you are looking for explosive scenes or huge plot points in this story, you will be disappointed. This is a tale of rediscovery and it is slow and methodical in its approach--hot and sexy but deliberately paced to let us see the naked underbelly of a relationship that is struggling to reinvent itself and survive.
Author CB Conwy takes us inside the minds and hearts of her two main characters and lets us experience what it is to rebuild trust, reaffirm love, and how difficult it is to let go of guilt and fear. She does so with scene after scene of these two men rediscovering each other sexually and by allowing us to watch their trial and error in the playroom, CB Conwy gives us a glimpse into what it takes to make a relationship survive and blossom.
I must warn you that the sex is visceral, descriptive and long. At times I felt that we needed a bit less of that and more background story on how Tom and Mischa had made it to this place in their relationship. A clearer depiction of how they had stopped evolving and how each had begun to shut off the relationship in their own way. I believe more of this history would have made the story of these two men reuniting stronger-more emotionally satisfying. Instead, at times, the author skimmed over the past and dwelled too long in the here and now, weakening the emotional impact of the moment.
However, despite these minor flaws, I found myself rooting for these guys. Sighing when they finally came to terms with their trust issues and smiling when they made it to firmer ground and, as a consequence, a deeper and more lasting love.
Tom, on the other hand, is almost palpably wired over his need to be taken beyond the boundaries Mischa has set for them.He is tired of living with fear and knows that if Mischa will just step up--be the Dom he is born to be, that Tom will ultimately be released from the fears that still threaten to overwhelm him.
And so, author CB Conwy gives us her delicious and kinky twist on the age old problem most long term relationships suffer at some time in their history--ennui. A form of taking the other person for granted, thinking we know exactly how our partner is wired and exactly what is best for them without ever uttering a single question to find out if we are right.
How does the author keep this type of story from becoming just one boring confrontation after another? She throws in some heated sexual scenes, a variety of kinky playroom scenarios and a bit of bondage--which, in my opinion, never hurts! (No pun intended.) CB Conwy does BDSM lovemaking with flair--and undeniable sizzle.
We watch as Tom finally pushes Mischa to realize that it is his own fears of not being enough, of not being able to protect and care for his submissive that is actually the root of the problems these two men are having both in the bedroom and in everyday life. It is not Tom who must now face his demons, but Mischa who must come to terms with the fact that he cannot protect Tom every moment, that there are things that will always be beyond his control and that as much as he loves Tom , he could have done nothing to prevent Tom's assault.
IF you are looking for explosive scenes or huge plot points in this story, you will be disappointed. This is a tale of rediscovery and it is slow and methodical in its approach--hot and sexy but deliberately paced to let us see the naked underbelly of a relationship that is struggling to reinvent itself and survive.
Author CB Conwy takes us inside the minds and hearts of her two main characters and lets us experience what it is to rebuild trust, reaffirm love, and how difficult it is to let go of guilt and fear. She does so with scene after scene of these two men rediscovering each other sexually and by allowing us to watch their trial and error in the playroom, CB Conwy gives us a glimpse into what it takes to make a relationship survive and blossom.
I must warn you that the sex is visceral, descriptive and long. At times I felt that we needed a bit less of that and more background story on how Tom and Mischa had made it to this place in their relationship. A clearer depiction of how they had stopped evolving and how each had begun to shut off the relationship in their own way. I believe more of this history would have made the story of these two men reuniting stronger-more emotionally satisfying. Instead, at times, the author skimmed over the past and dwelled too long in the here and now, weakening the emotional impact of the moment.
However, despite these minor flaws, I found myself rooting for these guys. Sighing when they finally came to terms with their trust issues and smiling when they made it to firmer ground and, as a consequence, a deeper and more lasting love.
August 8, 2016
Not perfect, but really good.
I did really enjoy seeing what happened with Mischa and Tom. This was actually a tiny bit kinkier than the first, just because Mischa had to find some different ways to play with Tom. It was a little more D/s than before. They did find a way to get past their issues with a little advice from Toby and Andy. They also learned to connect on different levels, too. What I didn't like, was that therapy was never discussed again, even after Mischa was having issues. It still gives it some of that "BDSM cures all" theme. I do have to give credit to the discussions that they did have about the problems.
I also appreciate the level of explanation used in the book. I feel like the author wrote it with people like me in mind. I would never be in the lifestyle, don't really understand the mindset for any of it. Books like this help me at least comprehend what the participants want to achieve. Having some of the physical and mental reactions from Tom's point of view helped as well. Mostly I got to learn what the hell some of these weird toys are for! I guess since the couple wasn't into the really formalized contracts and all that, was why the collar didn't have any huge significance near the end. So, now I'm going back to read Alphabet Soup. I really needed to see what happened with Mischa and Tom first.
I did really enjoy seeing what happened with Mischa and Tom. This was actually a tiny bit kinkier than the first, just because Mischa had to find some different ways to play with Tom. It was a little more D/s than before. They did find a way to get past their issues with a little advice from Toby and Andy. They also learned to connect on different levels, too. What I didn't like, was that therapy was never discussed again, even after Mischa was having issues. It still gives it some of that "BDSM cures all" theme. I do have to give credit to the discussions that they did have about the problems.
I also appreciate the level of explanation used in the book. I feel like the author wrote it with people like me in mind. I would never be in the lifestyle, don't really understand the mindset for any of it. Books like this help me at least comprehend what the participants want to achieve. Having some of the physical and mental reactions from Tom's point of view helped as well. Mostly I got to learn what the hell some of these weird toys are for! I guess since the couple wasn't into the really formalized contracts and all that, was why the collar didn't have any huge significance near the end. So, now I'm going back to read Alphabet Soup. I really needed to see what happened with Mischa and Tom first.
December 28, 2016
Ok.
In my opinion this book focused more on characters and less on sex. Now, considering that "that" was my main criticism regarding both A Russian Bear and Alphabet Soup; you would think I would have given this a higher rating.
Well, I would have. If it were executed as neatly as the sex scenes.
Anyway.
I might also subconsciously dropped the rating because there was no Tom and Andy scene with CK and Mischa on watch. Lots of sass and smexiness in the air. *sighs*
In my opinion this book focused more on characters and less on sex. Now, considering that "that" was my main criticism regarding both A Russian Bear and Alphabet Soup; you would think I would have given this a higher rating.
Well, I would have. If it were executed as neatly as the sex scenes.
Anyway.
I might also subconsciously dropped the rating because there was no Tom and Andy scene with CK and Mischa on watch. Lots of sass and smexiness in the air. *sighs*
December 12, 2012
Book provided and reviewed for affaire de coeur
Tom and Mischa had been in an intense Dom/Sub relationship for just over 6 months, when Tom was assaulted and left bleeding and unconscious in an alley. Though over the last 4 months the broken bones and bruises had healed, there was still a pain inside him that wouldn't leave. He needed his bad-ass Dom back, but Mischa continues to tiptoe around him and treat him like glass.
Mischa doesn't believe Toms ready for heavy scenes yet, especially when he himself isn't. He can't bring himself to inflict pain on Tom after everything he's been through.
Can Mischa and Tom find a way to reach each other and get back what they have lost? Or will they end up drifting further apart?
CB Conwy writes an emotional read about the after affects an assault can have on a relationship. It was a very intense story, heavy on the bdsm, that will leave the reader squirming in their seat.
Tom and Mischa had been in an intense Dom/Sub relationship for just over 6 months, when Tom was assaulted and left bleeding and unconscious in an alley. Though over the last 4 months the broken bones and bruises had healed, there was still a pain inside him that wouldn't leave. He needed his bad-ass Dom back, but Mischa continues to tiptoe around him and treat him like glass.
Mischa doesn't believe Toms ready for heavy scenes yet, especially when he himself isn't. He can't bring himself to inflict pain on Tom after everything he's been through.
Can Mischa and Tom find a way to reach each other and get back what they have lost? Or will they end up drifting further apart?
CB Conwy writes an emotional read about the after affects an assault can have on a relationship. It was a very intense story, heavy on the bdsm, that will leave the reader squirming in their seat.
December 27, 2012
Very good sequel to A Russian Bear. The story is a little slow at the beginning, while Tom struggles to overcome his "issues" from the attack, but it picks up as the story progresses. I was happy to see their S/m relationship resume, with some very hot scenes and some kinky toys. Dear author--I would love to read another story with some of the secondary characters from the club.
ETA: His Something is a free little story about Ben and Toby. I would love to read more about them!
ETA: His Something is a free little story about Ben and Toby. I would love to read more about them!
October 26, 2018
Loved this story! It starts up right where Russian Bear left off so it's a good idea to read that one first. A very entertaining and HOT series! 4 novels and 6 short stories. Interesting characters with their own unique stories. Here is the reading order I use:
Who You Are – Mischa’s beginning as a Dom short
Russian Bear – Mischa & Tom meet
Malaria, cholorea, etc. – Mischa & Tom short
His Something – Ben & Toby short
New Years Resolution – Ben & Toby short
Happily Ever After – Mischa & Tom takes up right after Russian Bear
Alphabet Soup – Andy & CK (takes place same timeframe as Happily Ever After)
Saturday Night Live – Jeff’s short
Of Russian Myth and Lore – Mischa & Tom short
How to Domesticate a Russian Bear – Wrap-up story
Who You Are – Mischa’s beginning as a Dom short
Russian Bear – Mischa & Tom meet
Malaria, cholorea, etc. – Mischa & Tom short
His Something – Ben & Toby short
New Years Resolution – Ben & Toby short
Happily Ever After – Mischa & Tom takes up right after Russian Bear
Alphabet Soup – Andy & CK (takes place same timeframe as Happily Ever After)
Saturday Night Live – Jeff’s short
Of Russian Myth and Lore – Mischa & Tom short
How to Domesticate a Russian Bear – Wrap-up story
July 15, 2014
OH MY GOD YES
This sequel to Misha and Tom's story was perfectly done in my opinion! Tom still has issues concerning the assault, and this book picks off right where the first book in the series let off! I love how in this book, we get to see how both Misha and Tom handled the fear of the assault and recovery. We get to watch them grow as a couple, and become stronger as a unit.
And don't worry this book is still just as hot as the first one
I skipped the story between CK and Andy because it involved less focus on the scenes and more about getting past Andy's issues, and went straight to this book.
C.B. Conwy did an amazing job allowing us to get closure from Misha and Tom, and the writing was still just as perfect as always.
This sequel to Misha and Tom's story was perfectly done in my opinion! Tom still has issues concerning the assault, and this book picks off right where the first book in the series let off! I love how in this book, we get to see how both Misha and Tom handled the fear of the assault and recovery. We get to watch them grow as a couple, and become stronger as a unit.
And don't worry this book is still just as hot as the first one
I skipped the story between CK and Andy because it involved less focus on the scenes and more about getting past Andy's issues, and went straight to this book.
C.B. Conwy did an amazing job allowing us to get closure from Misha and Tom, and the writing was still just as perfect as always.
October 19, 2013
In this story, Mischa and Tom are still trying to deal with the consequences of Tom's attack. There are cracks in their relationship at the beginning of the book. Tom is suffering some serious trust issues and Mischa is still trying to deal with his fears over what happened. When things finally reach a head, the two men have to try to find a way to make their relationship strong again. It was good to see a vulnerable side to Mischa and even better to see him return to his strong, sadistic self!
July 13, 2017
God, it's so nice to see Tom finally get back to his pain slut self. Poor thing. This was the perfect ending to their kinky adventures. Seriously, some of the stuff used in this book I had to go look up to see if I could find what they were talking about. Holy hell, this book was insanely hot! And Mischa, he's like the perfect guy...if you're a masochist anyways. Tom should have just taken the stinkin' Volvo!
April 6, 2013
We are back with Mischa and Tom. They are recovering from Tom's attack. And as things seem to get better there are new problems as Tom finishes up his studies and what next decisions have to be made. I like how this book deals with the issue that not just the victim but also those that love them have issues to deal and recover that has to happen. It was great to see both of them admit their need for each other.
April 18, 2014
This is the second part of the story which started in A Russian Bear. It picks up straightaway and although it gives some background certainly the previous book needs reading first to really appreciate the story. The characters develop really well, and get the story they deserve.
Will definitely read more by this author, who shows a keen sense of what makes a good story, and adds some fabulous kink to the mix.
Will definitely read more by this author, who shows a keen sense of what makes a good story, and adds some fabulous kink to the mix.
August 30, 2013
Oh its story of Mischa and Tom, got to be good and I was not disappointed it was everything I expected in their story.I would love to read more about them.It was fun to read and some of Mischa's actions were just swoon worthy. The entire series was worth reading. C.B.Conmy kudos to u for writing such a wonderful romantic series.
July 24, 2013
A wonderful follow up to the first story. Tom and Mischa are working out how to deal with the after effects of Tom's attack, and both make mistakes, but are willing to fight for their relationship.
I will read these books again, and look at other work from this author.
I will read these books again, and look at other work from this author.
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