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Special Forces #spinoff
Gold Digger
Nikolai Krasnorada leads the life of a corporate nomad. Working for a gold explorations company, he’s never put down roots, and he likes it that way. Roots can be dangerous, as everyone from his “man-hating” sister to his manipulative mother to his war-traumatized father has proven.
But when his CEO sends him to Toronto to strike a deal with LeBeau Mining, Nikolai meets Henri LeBeau, crown prince to the resources conglomerate and inveterate flirt. Sparks fly immediately, despite the business deal that threatens to go sour and Nikolai’s own reluctance to give Henri false hope about him being Mr. Right. He’s barely come to terms with his bisexuality, and getting involved with Henri would get messy.
When LeBeau Mining launches a hostile takeover bid, Nikolai and Henri find themselves on opposite sides of the negotiating table. But fortunately—or perhaps unfortunately—for Nikolai, Henri’s not nearly as interested in his company as he is in his heart.
But when his CEO sends him to Toronto to strike a deal with LeBeau Mining, Nikolai meets Henri LeBeau, crown prince to the resources conglomerate and inveterate flirt. Sparks fly immediately, despite the business deal that threatens to go sour and Nikolai’s own reluctance to give Henri false hope about him being Mr. Right. He’s barely come to terms with his bisexuality, and getting involved with Henri would get messy.
When LeBeau Mining launches a hostile takeover bid, Nikolai and Henri find themselves on opposite sides of the negotiating table. But fortunately—or perhaps unfortunately—for Nikolai, Henri’s not nearly as interested in his company as he is in his heart.
175 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 17, 2012
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November 6, 2016
This was my first book by Aleksandr Voinov and I really liked it :) Although, I'll do a re-read after I finish (get the nerve to actually start reading) Soldiers, I think I'll understand some things better :)
"Henri stood and moved in front of him. Nikolai glanced up from his hands, and there was a whole lot of impressively flat, naked midriff in front of him. He leaned forward, pressed his face into it, and was oddly relieved when Henri ran his fingers through his hair. He did like those touches, and this embrace was no different than what he might have done if Henri were a woman."
The story - Nikolai's boss sends him to Toronto to make a business deal with a powerful company - LeBeau Mining. He meets Henri LeBeau and sparks fly
Even though Nikolai's straight, he reacts to Henri's flirting and accepts a no-strings-attached blow job
That turned out well because he went back for more hahah
and the first sex was HOT
When the business deal with LeBeau fails because they planned a take-over, Nikolai goes to visit his father in New Zealand to deal with some personal family issues. And who does he see there? Why Henri, of course
“I’m not some crazy stalker. I have a reason to be here.”
“I bet that’s what every crazy stalker tells himself.”
LOVE this quote hahahahNikolai - I have to say, I was really surprised that he's bisexual, and I just love it! But from what I could gather, he comes from an all-kinds-of-sexual family, and is open and tolerant (LOVE THAT). He's attracted to Henri and decides to see where it goes, and it goes to some hot sex
. His family, hmmm not the best in the world. His sister is pretty much a b*tch, and he doesn't have that good a relationship with his mother. He goes to visit Vadim, his father, I just loved their bonding, and Nikolai asking for advice regarding Henri and his attraction to men/being bisexual. Henri - I wanted more of him! I think I just maybe liked him better than Nikolai
Don't kill me Soldiers/Vadim/Nikolai fans
I just loved the way he was so direct! That Chandler pic down below my review describes perfectly how I reacted to most of his lines
He knew what he wanted, and went after it, although in a stalkish kind of way XD Loved the way he helped Nikolai in the end, being an ultra good guy
The writing style's great, so I know I'll be coming back for more, yay :)
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February 10, 2017Audiobook available.
Has been re-edited and re-launched.
Has been re-edited and re-launched.
June 23, 2020
I am absolutely in love with this story!
I need to split up my review into two separate segments. One is for the actual romance 'Gold Digger' and one for the book's status as a 'sequel' to the Special Forces series.
Gold Digger - 'The romance'
Nikolai Krasnorada works for a newfound Albanian exploration company called Cybele. They have acquired a promising gold vein they want to capitalize on, but in order to do that, they need the financial backing and know-how of a mining company. So, representing the management, Nikolai travels to Toronto to introduce Cybele to LeBeau Mining, a huge Canadian mining company, hoping to win them for their idea.
The old CEO of LeBeau's is interested in Cybele, just not as a backer, but rather as a black knight, taking over the whole company and replacing the board with his own people.
Nikolai is determined to protect Cybele and declines the offer of a take-over. Things get more complicated, however, when Henri, LeBeau's nephew and aspiring future CEO, takes a liking to Nikolai and manages to seduce the straight man, making him a generous offer that Nikolai needs to consider seriously, both for his company and for his personal life.
The romance is very sweet and straightforward. There is little room for conflict between those two guys, once you get over the fact that they are financial enemies, so to speak. It's a cute GFY that sure deserves 4 solid stars as a stand alone. I especially liked Henri, who managed to be a likeable and lonely man in his mid-30s looking for love - and not a cunning billionaire who wants to force his way into his love interest's life (I've had some romances with a similar setting that I absolutely hated, but this one worked very well).
BUT OMFG, you gotta see this book in the context of the Special Forces series (Special Forces: Soldiers Part I -Director's Cut)!!
As such, it deserves probably 10 stars, because it finally gives us an outsider's (Nikolai's) point of view on what happened in one of the most outstanding military epic romances ever:
Nikolai is Vadim Krasnorada's son. And Vadim is just...my favorite character of all time!!!
And while I was hoping we'd get a glimpse of the now 60 year old guy, this book rewards us by having Vadim as a side character throughout most of the book!! I am so amazed!
Nikolai even spends a week with Vadim in New Zealand and their closeness moved me to tears. Vadim is still struggling with the aftermath of his gruesome life and is suffering from flashbacks, so obviously, the therapy only helped him to a certain extent.
Thinking back to Vadim's younger days, I remember Nikolai being the quiet boy with the sad eyes in his father's mind. Now seeing Nikolai as a grown up man around 30, who is doing his best to make peace with his dad, forgiving him that he was not there for him in his childhood, really moved me to tears. Vadim even trusts Nikolai enough to let him see the most vulnerable side of him, and Nikolai is willing to be there and console him in those dark moments. Needless to say, I *love* Nikolai and I am so incredibly happy for Vadim.
Of course, Vadim is also the best dad you could have when you want to discuss having gay feelings for a guy.
Vadim's been there, done that, after all. Countless times, with equally countless men, LOL.
In his 60s, Vadim seems to have calmed down a bit, though, being an even more contemplative, introvert guy than he used to be in his younger days. Or maybe that's just because we get to see him through Nikolai's eyes. Nikolai is a rather open-minded and lively guy, very unlike Vadim, but you'll probably know why ;-)
Vadim seems to be happy with his 'Scottish husband', though, at least when the husband is around and not *visiting* friends (and OMG, I am so amused about the fact that due to some discrepancies between the authors of the SF series, Voinov cannot name Dan in his books, so we get a completely Dan-free book featuring Vadim in a prominent role - a dream come true, LOL).
I also loved how Nikolai isn't fond of Jean and his cheating ways at all, LOL. He finally voiced what probably every reader thought about the guy and when he mentioned that Jean even came on to him at Vadim's wedding, I can only imagine Vadim sharpening his knives for the next time Jean stops by for a visit.
What did Vadim say to Jean in Veterans:
And God, even at 60 years of age, Vadim is the greatest character. I just love how he opens up to Nikolai, grateful his son is willing to include him in his life, seeing as his daughter Anya will forever hate his guts (though there is no doubt she is Vadim's daughter, clearly winning the contest of who is the 'most cold-hearted monster' in the family). And Nikolai (taking after a certain pilot and not Vadim) saying that a life of holding a grudge is not a very happy one, deciding to share his life with his dad, makes me even happier than Vadim's HEA at the end of Veterans.
So yeah, you should definitely read this one if you've read SF. I am so so grateful this book is a rather sweet romance, instead of the promiscuous, violent love story that SF graced us with.
And I will forever love Vadim. You can bring him along in a wheelchair in his 80s and I will still love him. When Nikolai asked him about his dark memories that he had to write down and work through in his therapy and he said that he would leave them to Nikolai to read them after he passed away, because he wouldn't want Nikolai to think of him as a bad person while he was alive - that had me in tears as well.
I am so glad Vadim found a family. Even if it was at such a late stage in his turbulent life. He seems to draw a happiness from Nikolai that even Dan cannot give him (which doesn't surprise me *cough*). And Vadim still catches the interest of every single gay guy in the room, but he doesn't care about these young guys anymore, flashing his wedding band when the question comes up. Adorable.
5 stars for this beautiful gem! Even though poor Nikolai stood a great deal in his father's shadow in this story.
I need to split up my review into two separate segments. One is for the actual romance 'Gold Digger' and one for the book's status as a 'sequel' to the Special Forces series.
Gold Digger - 'The romance'
Nikolai Krasnorada works for a newfound Albanian exploration company called Cybele. They have acquired a promising gold vein they want to capitalize on, but in order to do that, they need the financial backing and know-how of a mining company. So, representing the management, Nikolai travels to Toronto to introduce Cybele to LeBeau Mining, a huge Canadian mining company, hoping to win them for their idea.
The old CEO of LeBeau's is interested in Cybele, just not as a backer, but rather as a black knight, taking over the whole company and replacing the board with his own people.
Nikolai is determined to protect Cybele and declines the offer of a take-over. Things get more complicated, however, when Henri, LeBeau's nephew and aspiring future CEO, takes a liking to Nikolai and manages to seduce the straight man, making him a generous offer that Nikolai needs to consider seriously, both for his company and for his personal life.
The romance is very sweet and straightforward. There is little room for conflict between those two guys, once you get over the fact that they are financial enemies, so to speak. It's a cute GFY that sure deserves 4 solid stars as a stand alone. I especially liked Henri, who managed to be a likeable and lonely man in his mid-30s looking for love - and not a cunning billionaire who wants to force his way into his love interest's life (I've had some romances with a similar setting that I absolutely hated, but this one worked very well).
BUT OMFG, you gotta see this book in the context of the Special Forces series (Special Forces: Soldiers Part I -Director's Cut)!!
As such, it deserves probably 10 stars, because it finally gives us an outsider's (Nikolai's) point of view on what happened in one of the most outstanding military epic romances ever:
Nikolai is Vadim Krasnorada's son. And Vadim is just...my favorite character of all time!!!
And while I was hoping we'd get a glimpse of the now 60 year old guy, this book rewards us by having Vadim as a side character throughout most of the book!! I am so amazed!
Nikolai even spends a week with Vadim in New Zealand and their closeness moved me to tears. Vadim is still struggling with the aftermath of his gruesome life and is suffering from flashbacks, so obviously, the therapy only helped him to a certain extent.
Thinking back to Vadim's younger days, I remember Nikolai being the quiet boy with the sad eyes in his father's mind. Now seeing Nikolai as a grown up man around 30, who is doing his best to make peace with his dad, forgiving him that he was not there for him in his childhood, really moved me to tears. Vadim even trusts Nikolai enough to let him see the most vulnerable side of him, and Nikolai is willing to be there and console him in those dark moments. Needless to say, I *love* Nikolai and I am so incredibly happy for Vadim.
Of course, Vadim is also the best dad you could have when you want to discuss having gay feelings for a guy.
Vadim's been there, done that, after all. Countless times, with equally countless men, LOL.
In his 60s, Vadim seems to have calmed down a bit, though, being an even more contemplative, introvert guy than he used to be in his younger days. Or maybe that's just because we get to see him through Nikolai's eyes. Nikolai is a rather open-minded and lively guy, very unlike Vadim, but you'll probably know why ;-)
Vadim seems to be happy with his 'Scottish husband', though, at least when the husband is around and not *visiting* friends (and OMG, I am so amused about the fact that due to some discrepancies between the authors of the SF series, Voinov cannot name Dan in his books, so we get a completely Dan-free book featuring Vadim in a prominent role - a dream come true, LOL).
I also loved how Nikolai isn't fond of Jean and his cheating ways at all, LOL. He finally voiced what probably every reader thought about the guy and when he mentioned that Jean even came on to him at Vadim's wedding, I can only imagine Vadim sharpening his knives for the next time Jean stops by for a visit.
What did Vadim say to Jean in Veterans:
"Skinning is hard work. There are cleaner, faster ways."
And God, even at 60 years of age, Vadim is the greatest character. I just love how he opens up to Nikolai, grateful his son is willing to include him in his life, seeing as his daughter Anya will forever hate his guts (though there is no doubt she is Vadim's daughter, clearly winning the contest of who is the 'most cold-hearted monster' in the family). And Nikolai (taking after a certain pilot and not Vadim) saying that a life of holding a grudge is not a very happy one, deciding to share his life with his dad, makes me even happier than Vadim's HEA at the end of Veterans.
So yeah, you should definitely read this one if you've read SF. I am so so grateful this book is a rather sweet romance, instead of the promiscuous, violent love story that SF graced us with.
And I will forever love Vadim. You can bring him along in a wheelchair in his 80s and I will still love him. When Nikolai asked him about his dark memories that he had to write down and work through in his therapy and he said that he would leave them to Nikolai to read them after he passed away, because he wouldn't want Nikolai to think of him as a bad person while he was alive - that had me in tears as well.
I am so glad Vadim found a family. Even if it was at such a late stage in his turbulent life. He seems to draw a happiness from Nikolai that even Dan cannot give him (which doesn't surprise me *cough*). And Vadim still catches the interest of every single gay guy in the room, but he doesn't care about these young guys anymore, flashing his wedding band when the question comes up. Adorable.
5 stars for this beautiful gem! Even though poor Nikolai stood a great deal in his father's shadow in this story.
March 6, 2014
3.5 stars
I know I should have not read this book right after SOLDIERS but I needed something light before starting MERCENARIES because... well, you know what I mean, right?
But I guess this can be read as a stand alone so I didn't do it terribly wrong.
I really enjoyed this story, Henri's sense of humour & stalkering skills, even if I liked them, that's stalking ;)
And Nikolay was a very interesting character. I am really curious about his sister, she's like Vadim with a vagina...I'd love to read more about her.
And then, there were parts of the book where I was smiling like a fool. Why you ask? Because my fave man EVER was there and just reading his name makes my legs feel weak.
What I didn't love? Oh well, that end, I guess Nikolay saw it all clear after that , but still...
Those long paragraphs about Cybele because let's admit it, I got lost sometimes.
Anyway Voinov is still the f@cking best and I'll always kiss the ground he walks on.
February 1, 2014
A fun, compact read with plenty to titillate wistful Special Forces victims grappling with survivor's guilt.
Gently framed and smoothly executed. The sex was both sweet and hot, and the characters were appealing.
Although the dramatic impediments natural to globe-trotting industrialists weren't quite difficult or high-stakes enough to really spin a yarn as long as I'd have liked (it's my only complaint, you know—I liked these characters too much to be satisfied with random vignettes in various hotel suites), the resolution was still a satisfying conclusion to an elegant and understated story.
A worthy addition to the Voinov catalogue.
Gently framed and smoothly executed. The sex was both sweet and hot, and the characters were appealing.
Although the dramatic impediments natural to globe-trotting industrialists weren't quite difficult or high-stakes enough to really spin a yarn as long as I'd have liked (it's my only complaint, you know—I liked these characters too much to be satisfied with random vignettes in various hotel suites), the resolution was still a satisfying conclusion to an elegant and understated story.
A worthy addition to the Voinov catalogue.
March 4, 2014
Written March 3, 2014
4.3 Stars - stylish, sexy and powerfully told about new opportunities and choices - both in business and private
This is my very first Aleksandr Voinov read. I've heard so many great words about the epic tale Special Forces (about Vadim who pops up in this book) and was of course very curious to read something by Mr Voinow. Then yesterday I saw and read Lisa's review (great) for this quite short novel (around 135 pages) and took a quick decision to pick it up and start to read it at ones.
Did I feel that special thing? Well Yes, it actually did. This author really made all my feelings to start to process. Quickly and at ones. The writing breathed by a very masculine and reserved style. Gold Digger is in fact a quite nice and cute story, and not in any way rough or tough to read. It's just a romance about love, family and business. But it never ever felt a tiny bit sweet or sugary.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
Nikolai Krasnorada (Vadim's son) is a corporate nomad working for the gold explorations company, Cybele Exploration. On a business trip to Toronto in Canada to strike a deal with LeBeau Mining, he meets Henri LeBeau, the crown prince of this poverful mining company, owned by Henri's uncle.
Henri is charming, outgoing and a sexy gay man.
(Loved him, he is gorgeous.) Henri isn't the shy, slowgoing type and he immedetly start to flirt with Nikolai. Nikolai in turn becomes a bit charmed (who shouldn't?) and can not help but be attracted to Henri's straightforward style. Pretty soon he gets a shamelessly tempting offer. ...and I don't mean that hostile takeover bid.
Is it possible to mix plesaure and business?
...and Nikolai isn't even gay.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
Gold Digger, is, in the romantic love parts, a GFY story without angst or a lot of hassle in that particular issue. Nikolai accept relatively simple that he actually enjoys and likes what he shared with Henri. Too easy?
The story itself is pretty simple and straightforward. We follow a business transaction from A to Z and we get some glimpses from Nikolai's unusual family and their relationships. It's a lot of traveling back and forth across the globe and everything is nice and structured told. Yet it felt both brazenly sexy, tender sweet, quite subtle and slightly melancholy in the same time.
The story is told in a very strong, powerfully and also sometimes fun way. ~ I believed in what I was reading although it all really went way too fast. Or? ~ The end felt a bit abrupt and a little too much maybe, but otherwise this was an excellent fairly quick read CR romance. A great one!
I have by now acquired a taste for more Aleksandr Voinov stories. ...and I loved this huge, introvert, older Vadim-man. I didn't see a lot of him but it was just enough to know that he is the yummiest kind.
I LIKE - pretty impressed, actually
4.3 Stars - stylish, sexy and powerfully told about new opportunities and choices - both in business and private
This is my very first Aleksandr Voinov read. I've heard so many great words about the epic tale Special Forces (about Vadim who pops up in this book) and was of course very curious to read something by Mr Voinow. Then yesterday I saw and read Lisa's review (great) for this quite short novel (around 135 pages) and took a quick decision to pick it up and start to read it at ones.
Did I feel that special thing? Well Yes, it actually did. This author really made all my feelings to start to process. Quickly and at ones. The writing breathed by a very masculine and reserved style. Gold Digger is in fact a quite nice and cute story, and not in any way rough or tough to read. It's just a romance about love, family and business. But it never ever felt a tiny bit sweet or sugary.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
Nikolai Krasnorada (Vadim's son) is a corporate nomad working for the gold explorations company, Cybele Exploration. On a business trip to Toronto in Canada to strike a deal with LeBeau Mining, he meets Henri LeBeau, the crown prince of this poverful mining company, owned by Henri's uncle.
“If I ever got into the privileged position to call you my boyfriend, I'd make damn sure you wouldn't turn into an ex.”
Henri is charming, outgoing and a sexy gay man.
(Loved him, he is gorgeous.) Henri isn't the shy, slowgoing type and he immedetly start to flirt with Nikolai. Nikolai in turn becomes a bit charmed (who shouldn't?) and can not help but be attracted to Henri's straightforward style. Pretty soon he gets a shamelessly tempting offer. ...and I don't mean that hostile takeover bid.
Is it possible to mix plesaure and business?
...and Nikolai isn't even gay.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
Gold Digger, is, in the romantic love parts, a GFY story without angst or a lot of hassle in that particular issue. Nikolai accept relatively simple that he actually enjoys and likes what he shared with Henri. Too easy?
“Holy shit, you’re the most accomplished stalker I’ve ever met.”
“It’s not stalking if you like it.”
The story itself is pretty simple and straightforward. We follow a business transaction from A to Z and we get some glimpses from Nikolai's unusual family and their relationships. It's a lot of traveling back and forth across the globe and everything is nice and structured told. Yet it felt both brazenly sexy, tender sweet, quite subtle and slightly melancholy in the same time.
The story is told in a very strong, powerfully and also sometimes fun way. ~ I believed in what I was reading although it all really went way too fast. Or? ~ The end felt a bit abrupt and a little too much maybe, but otherwise this was an excellent fairly quick read CR romance. A great one!
I have by now acquired a taste for more Aleksandr Voinov stories. ...and I loved this huge, introvert, older Vadim-man. I didn't see a lot of him but it was just enough to know that he is the yummiest kind. I LIKE - pretty impressed, actually
September 16, 2012
All right. I've been typing and deleting the first couple of paragraphs of this review for at least half an hour now so I'll just cut to the chase.
The things I loved:
• Vadim. Vadim. Vadim. Vadim. Vadim. I've said it many times already but allow me to say it one more time: I love Vadim to pieces and I will always be grateful to A. Voinov for creating him. This story was worth reading if only for the Vadim parts.
• The premise. The corporate world and men in tailored suits? Sign me up.
• The sex. I know it's Voinov we're talking about so great sex scenes are kind of a given but still; holy hotness Batman!
The things I liked:
• The references to Greek mythology and Greek food. I kept reading "mezze" as "métze" instead of "mezé" but I guess I should blame my Italian influences.
• How easily the plot moved from Toronto, to Wellington, to London. It also explained that airplane on the cover of the book!
The things I wondered about:
• Why Tamás didn't know what a white knight was even though he was one of Ruslan's top guys. Since he elaborated most of their presentation to LeBeau Mining and was even sent to Toronto along with Nikolai to make it, shouldn't he know this kind of financial jargon?
• Nikolai calling people around the world without thinking about the time difference. He was in Canada and he called Vadim in New Zealand, his mother/sister in Hungary and Ruslan in Armenia. Shouldn't he calculate the time difference first? He certainly wouldn't want to wake his family/friends in the middle of the night.
• Why Jean and Solange had to be mentioned so many times in the story. I admit I hate Jean's guts but, honestly, what did mentioning him and his wife offer to this story? They liked this hotel and/or that restaurant when they last visited New Zealand. So? Why should their opinion matter to Nikolai? Or to Vadim for that matter?
• Nikolai first reassuring Vadim he could deal with the check saying "I do part-own a gold company, you know" (Kindle location 1416) and then a little later (Kindle location 1484) providing practically the same info to his father ("You know I'm in gold exploration. I'm one of the partners of a company called Cybele…") The first reference was fine. It came across as Nikolai joking with his father about information they were both privy to. Maybe it's just me but I didn't think that second reminder was necessary.
The things that didn't sit well with me:
• That the parts of the story I liked best were the ones involving Vadim. Since this was Nikolai's story, shouldn't I have focused on him and his evolving relationship with Henri? Before you start with the "it was to be expected; you got tunnel vision the moment you learned Vadim was going to be in this story," let me elaborate a little. I liked the Vadim parts especially because they involved Nikolai; because they showed how Nikolai and Vadim's father/son relationship was fortified, how they learned to respect and understand and listen to each other. I didn't notice this kind of dynamic in Nikolai's interaction with Henri. There was nothing really profound there.
• Nikolai's sexuality. It wasn't the first time I read about a straight man discovering he liked gay sex but in Nikolai's case everything happened with lightning speed. One week he was straight (who hadn't even thought of experimenting with other men); the next, he was talking about the possibility of marriage with a guy he barely knew. The same went for Henri, by the way. One week he was the crown prince of a multi-billion dollar company; the next he was abandoning everything and moving from a luxurious condo in downtown Toronto to backwater Armenia for a straight guy he'd just met.
• And this is where the length of the story comes into play. I'm sure that, if it were longer, Mr Voinov would have made the whole thing work beautifully; Nikolai's relationship with Henri would have evolved more smoothly and their HEA would have been more solid and more believable.
• Nikolai's lukewarm reaction to the news his sister had about their family and parentage and how it later played out with Vadim. That was another point in the plot that would have benefitted had the story been longer.
• My impression was that Gold Digger was a little rushed. Not only because of the length. It was also obvious from the editing. There was the occasional typo (e.g., "Henri was building a physical trust between them before any more happened") or repetition. For instance, I noticed how Nikolai's stomach "was boiling with acid", or "digesting itself with all the acid," or how coffee "hit his stomach like battery acid." Also, he had a "really weird feeling in the pit of his stomach," "a hollow, sinking feeling in the pit of his stomach," or "dread collecting like dark, cold liquid in the pit of his stomach." All these could have easily been avoided.
The bottom line:
This may be a Special Forces spinoff but it's one of Mr Voinov's more mellow and sweet stories. Much as I prefer his "darker" work, I enjoyed it very much and, as a contemporary m/m romance, it put a smile on my face. It's three stars for the story plus an extra one for Vadim (I know I'm biased. There's no need to point it out to me. We're talking Vadim Petrovich Krasnorada here.)
In fact, I wouldn't mind reading a sequel to make sure everything went all right with Nikolai and Henri, and—why not—read about another gay marriage in the Krasnorada family. And yes, to take another glimpse into the life of my beloved Vadim.
The things I loved:
• Vadim. Vadim. Vadim. Vadim. Vadim. I've said it many times already but allow me to say it one more time: I love Vadim to pieces and I will always be grateful to A. Voinov for creating him. This story was worth reading if only for the Vadim parts.
• The premise. The corporate world and men in tailored suits? Sign me up.
• The sex. I know it's Voinov we're talking about so great sex scenes are kind of a given but still; holy hotness Batman!
The things I liked:
• The references to Greek mythology and Greek food. I kept reading "mezze" as "métze" instead of "mezé" but I guess I should blame my Italian influences.
• How easily the plot moved from Toronto, to Wellington, to London. It also explained that airplane on the cover of the book!
The things I wondered about:
• Why Tamás didn't know what a white knight was even though he was one of Ruslan's top guys. Since he elaborated most of their presentation to LeBeau Mining and was even sent to Toronto along with Nikolai to make it, shouldn't he know this kind of financial jargon?
• Nikolai calling people around the world without thinking about the time difference. He was in Canada and he called Vadim in New Zealand, his mother/sister in Hungary and Ruslan in Armenia. Shouldn't he calculate the time difference first? He certainly wouldn't want to wake his family/friends in the middle of the night.
• Why Jean and Solange had to be mentioned so many times in the story. I admit I hate Jean's guts but, honestly, what did mentioning him and his wife offer to this story? They liked this hotel and/or that restaurant when they last visited New Zealand. So? Why should their opinion matter to Nikolai? Or to Vadim for that matter?
• Nikolai first reassuring Vadim he could deal with the check saying "I do part-own a gold company, you know" (Kindle location 1416) and then a little later (Kindle location 1484) providing practically the same info to his father ("You know I'm in gold exploration. I'm one of the partners of a company called Cybele…") The first reference was fine. It came across as Nikolai joking with his father about information they were both privy to. Maybe it's just me but I didn't think that second reminder was necessary.
The things that didn't sit well with me:
• That the parts of the story I liked best were the ones involving Vadim. Since this was Nikolai's story, shouldn't I have focused on him and his evolving relationship with Henri? Before you start with the "it was to be expected; you got tunnel vision the moment you learned Vadim was going to be in this story," let me elaborate a little. I liked the Vadim parts especially because they involved Nikolai; because they showed how Nikolai and Vadim's father/son relationship was fortified, how they learned to respect and understand and listen to each other. I didn't notice this kind of dynamic in Nikolai's interaction with Henri. There was nothing really profound there.
• Nikolai's sexuality. It wasn't the first time I read about a straight man discovering he liked gay sex but in Nikolai's case everything happened with lightning speed. One week he was straight (who hadn't even thought of experimenting with other men); the next, he was talking about the possibility of marriage with a guy he barely knew. The same went for Henri, by the way. One week he was the crown prince of a multi-billion dollar company; the next he was abandoning everything and moving from a luxurious condo in downtown Toronto to backwater Armenia for a straight guy he'd just met.
• And this is where the length of the story comes into play. I'm sure that, if it were longer, Mr Voinov would have made the whole thing work beautifully; Nikolai's relationship with Henri would have evolved more smoothly and their HEA would have been more solid and more believable.
• Nikolai's lukewarm reaction to the news his sister had about their family and parentage and how it later played out with Vadim. That was another point in the plot that would have benefitted had the story been longer.
• My impression was that Gold Digger was a little rushed. Not only because of the length. It was also obvious from the editing. There was the occasional typo (e.g., "Henri was building a physical trust between them before any more happened") or repetition. For instance, I noticed how Nikolai's stomach "was boiling with acid", or "digesting itself with all the acid," or how coffee "hit his stomach like battery acid." Also, he had a "really weird feeling in the pit of his stomach," "a hollow, sinking feeling in the pit of his stomach," or "dread collecting like dark, cold liquid in the pit of his stomach." All these could have easily been avoided.
The bottom line:
This may be a Special Forces spinoff but it's one of Mr Voinov's more mellow and sweet stories. Much as I prefer his "darker" work, I enjoyed it very much and, as a contemporary m/m romance, it put a smile on my face. It's three stars for the story plus an extra one for Vadim (I know I'm biased. There's no need to point it out to me. We're talking Vadim Petrovich Krasnorada here.)
In fact, I wouldn't mind reading a sequel to make sure everything went all right with Nikolai and Henri, and—why not—read about another gay marriage in the Krasnorada family. And yes, to take another glimpse into the life of my beloved Vadim.
September 3, 2013
From 3,8 to 4,2 stars.
Let me tell first- it is an absolute MUST READ for all fans of SF.
You won’t be able to avoid this short novel if you have read SF. It tells us about Nicolai, the son of Vadim
and Henri LeBeau,the nephew of the CEO of LeBeau Mining.
Gold Digger is an enjoyable sweet light read with some really steamy hot scenes and can be read also as a stand alone. The father-son moments were great- I was so happy to meet Vadim again; the scenes with him were like a balm for my soul. The writing is just so how I expected it to be, if you have already read Aleksandr Voinov I don’t need to explain anything. If not, you have to start NOW.
At the same time though you have to accept that you won’t build this deep and strong connection to the characters the way it was in SF. It is understandable- SF is an epic work; we accompany Vadim and Dan through 25 years of their life full of highs and depths, pains and love, wars and peace.
I am completely agreed with my GR friend Kelleanne: This rating is not a problem of the author, it is our problem, because we compare all characters coming after Vadim and Dan and, sorry, but I can’t help myself- I’m just badly missing these two guys...and need urgently something that can take my mind off them.
Lena, shut up, and please do not talk about SF every minute, it is another book here! (That was my inner voice)
Let me tell first- it is an absolute MUST READ for all fans of SF.
You won’t be able to avoid this short novel if you have read SF. It tells us about Nicolai, the son of Vadim
and Henri LeBeau,the nephew of the CEO of LeBeau Mining.
Gold Digger is an enjoyable sweet light read with some really steamy hot scenes and can be read also as a stand alone. The father-son moments were great- I was so happy to meet Vadim again; the scenes with him were like a balm for my soul. The writing is just so how I expected it to be, if you have already read Aleksandr Voinov I don’t need to explain anything. If not, you have to start NOW.
At the same time though you have to accept that you won’t build this deep and strong connection to the characters the way it was in SF. It is understandable- SF is an epic work; we accompany Vadim and Dan through 25 years of their life full of highs and depths, pains and love, wars and peace.
I am completely agreed with my GR friend Kelleanne: This rating is not a problem of the author, it is our problem, because we compare all characters coming after Vadim and Dan and, sorry, but I can’t help myself- I’m just badly missing these two guys...and need urgently something that can take my mind off them.
Lena, shut up, and please do not talk about SF every minute, it is another book here! (That was my inner voice)
September 15, 2012
I do realize that writing “I think Aleksandr Voinov is a genius and I’m obsessed with him and his books (and the Muse) and that ‘Gold Digger’ is a yet another work of art” is basically stating something as obvious as “the sky is blue”.
So…the sky is blue.
“Gold Digger” is sensual and erotic and romantic and flirtatious and stoic and methodical and touching and powerful and *sigh*-inducing.
I love Nikolai and Henri together. I loved their emotional, physical, intellectual, and professional journeys. I loved their banter. There were some classic lines throughout the book (my Kindle is highlighted to w/in an inch of its life). Even so, surprisingly to me, I actually loved Vadim the most (and this is more interesting because I haven’t yet been introduced to him in the Special Forces series…but I’m sure to read that soon) Even through just bits and pieces, his complexities have me intrigued and wanting more.
I did get confused how quickly . But I rolled with it...
This book was fan-f’ing-tastic. Duh.
PS - this book works as a stand alone but would definitely, I'm guessing, be enhanced if read after Special Forces.
June 21, 2020
So... It was literal gold diggers. Not the scandalous kind.
January 16, 2013
~~~
A very fine stand-alone as well as a must-read for established Special Forces fans. I would also nominate this as an excellent first male/male romance book.
Aleksandr Voinov's voice takes on a fresher, lighter tone yet remains sophisticated in this highly enjoyable romance. I've been anxiously awaiting this new look at the next generation of his Special Forces characters. While it's possible that this book was written purely to indulge his fan's wanton pleading, I honestly believe this project was something the author enjoyed pursuing.
For the past eight months I have been rereading, buddy reading, quoting and praising the epic Special Forces. It's kind of like that first rock album you really connected with and had to share it with everyone willing to listen, in an effort to keep it alive and valid. So, when I heard that Aleks would continue the story, I was thrilled. When I heard the story would be contemporary and revolve around Nikolai, Vadim's son, I was intrigued. When I found that it would be a "sweet romance", I was apprehensive. How could the tragic, physically invasive SF be turned into anything sweet? Duh, I've said this before; I trust Aleks writing and I trust his vision. What he created here was a new day, a new path, while simultaneously easing my soul and giving much needed comfort. Well done.
THE CHARACTERS
Nikolai Krasnorada - Strong, gorgeous, open-minded and introverted. Nikolai is a surprising character to develop from the madness that is Special Forces. He feels normal, average and yet leads a lifestyle many would envy. An explorer by nature or just seeking something he's never known, he works hard to keep a birds-eye-view of his family's, uh, unique quirks.
Henri LeBeau - Smooth, rich, flirtatious and the enemy. Wow, what's not to like there?
Vadim Krasnorada - I had instant concern for Vadim in this story. The god-like strength is subdued, vulnerable and he fears losing someone he loves deeply. His brilliance, cunning and protective nature are completely intact. I love him more than ever.
Anya - So like her mother. Competitive, manipulative, a bitch.
I have to say that it was quite interesting to watch Voinov work with the more "normal" characters of Nikolai and Henri. As a fan, I've seen him develop and present some fascinating, unique and complex characters, so seeing his ability with regular guys was enlightening.
THE STORY
It turns out, for me, this was the perfect contrast to Special Forces. A modern story reflecting a more progressive, yet far from perfect world. Opening within the exciting and fast-paced corporate world, Nikolai and Henri are in high-level discussions relating to corporate mergers and takeovers. The two men are both successful in business but have each forestalled their personal lives. The tentative attraction is acknowledged, but Nikolai is not one to be pinned down. His family has not given him much reason to seek anything long term.
There are glimpses of the parents and family who have worked to achieve certain levels so that their children can have a different type of life. For all that parents strive to make their children's lives easier, smoother, those children must still attain their own sense of self via pitfalls and success.
A strong and necessary undercurrent in the book revolves around Nikolai and Vadim's incomplete relationship. I found myself crying for Vadim. I think you will too.
The Anya twist is reminiscent and surprising. Voinov's genius was showing when he developed this plot line. I have to wonder how long he was sitting on that idea.
THE WRITING
This is why I think Voinov found enjoyment in these characters. It was clear in the writing style that he liked both Nikolai and Henri and I found it delightful that he could interest me in such normal, warm and "real" guys.
The story was quick, lively and well written. Again, I would say this would also be an excellent introduction into male/male romance. The pace, tone and visuals are easy to sink into.
~~~~
The longer I digest this book the more satisfaction I'm taking from it. If this is Aleks' attempt to appease his fans, fine. I say more power to his fans for causing this revisit.
There are several plot lines that would be very interesting to pursue. In a very vain attempt to color Aleks' mind, I would love to see more of these characters.
~~~
Take a look at my Male/Male Romance Book Blog:
http://www.attentionisarbitrary.blogspot.com
A very fine stand-alone as well as a must-read for established Special Forces fans. I would also nominate this as an excellent first male/male romance book.
Aleksandr Voinov's voice takes on a fresher, lighter tone yet remains sophisticated in this highly enjoyable romance. I've been anxiously awaiting this new look at the next generation of his Special Forces characters. While it's possible that this book was written purely to indulge his fan's wanton pleading, I honestly believe this project was something the author enjoyed pursuing.
For the past eight months I have been rereading, buddy reading, quoting and praising the epic Special Forces. It's kind of like that first rock album you really connected with and had to share it with everyone willing to listen, in an effort to keep it alive and valid. So, when I heard that Aleks would continue the story, I was thrilled. When I heard the story would be contemporary and revolve around Nikolai, Vadim's son, I was intrigued. When I found that it would be a "sweet romance", I was apprehensive. How could the tragic, physically invasive SF be turned into anything sweet? Duh, I've said this before; I trust Aleks writing and I trust his vision. What he created here was a new day, a new path, while simultaneously easing my soul and giving much needed comfort. Well done.
THE CHARACTERS
There's much better than me out there for you.
Nikolai Krasnorada - Strong, gorgeous, open-minded and introverted. Nikolai is a surprising character to develop from the madness that is Special Forces. He feels normal, average and yet leads a lifestyle many would envy. An explorer by nature or just seeking something he's never known, he works hard to keep a birds-eye-view of his family's, uh, unique quirks.
"The harmless one"
Henri LeBeau - Smooth, rich, flirtatious and the enemy. Wow, what's not to like there?
Vadim sat...back to the wall, seemingly playing with his smartphone -- or really plotting who to kill first...with nothing more than a coctail umbrella.
Vadim Krasnorada - I had instant concern for Vadim in this story. The god-like strength is subdued, vulnerable and he fears losing someone he loves deeply. His brilliance, cunning and protective nature are completely intact. I love him more than ever.
Anya - So like her mother. Competitive, manipulative, a bitch.
I have to say that it was quite interesting to watch Voinov work with the more "normal" characters of Nikolai and Henri. As a fan, I've seen him develop and present some fascinating, unique and complex characters, so seeing his ability with regular guys was enlightening.
THE STORY
It turns out, for me, this was the perfect contrast to Special Forces. A modern story reflecting a more progressive, yet far from perfect world. Opening within the exciting and fast-paced corporate world, Nikolai and Henri are in high-level discussions relating to corporate mergers and takeovers. The two men are both successful in business but have each forestalled their personal lives. The tentative attraction is acknowledged, but Nikolai is not one to be pinned down. His family has not given him much reason to seek anything long term.
There are glimpses of the parents and family who have worked to achieve certain levels so that their children can have a different type of life. For all that parents strive to make their children's lives easier, smoother, those children must still attain their own sense of self via pitfalls and success.
A strong and necessary undercurrent in the book revolves around Nikolai and Vadim's incomplete relationship. I found myself crying for Vadim. I think you will too.
The Anya twist is reminiscent and surprising. Voinov's genius was showing when he developed this plot line. I have to wonder how long he was sitting on that idea.
THE WRITING
The chemistry and the banter.
This is why I think Voinov found enjoyment in these characters. It was clear in the writing style that he liked both Nikolai and Henri and I found it delightful that he could interest me in such normal, warm and "real" guys.
The story was quick, lively and well written. Again, I would say this would also be an excellent introduction into male/male romance. The pace, tone and visuals are easy to sink into.
...you never know what kind of memory will keep you going when you need it.
~~~~
The longer I digest this book the more satisfaction I'm taking from it. If this is Aleks' attempt to appease his fans, fine. I say more power to his fans for causing this revisit.
There are several plot lines that would be very interesting to pursue. In a very vain attempt to color Aleks' mind, I would love to see more of these characters.
~~~
Take a look at my Male/Male Romance Book Blog:
http://www.attentionisarbitrary.blogspot.com
September 16, 2012
Sweeeeet!
If you read this book expecting the gut-wrenching intensity of Special Forces, this book is a whole different beast - it's more like your house pet - but if you're looking for a pick-me-up contemporary romance, which makes you want to strip the next man in a suit you meet, it's for you AND you'll get to see a mature Vadim that you'd love to tend to like that poor waiter in the book.
The story is in the point-of-view of Nikolai and while we got to see his side of the story and know his motivations, learning how a sane, loyal and good guy he is, his love/lust interest, Henri LeBeau, remained a bit out of reach. I really wanted to find a connection with him and I couldn't, but still I liked him. He was a man with something to prove, but also a man probably dissatisfied with his life. I saw a sort of desperation in his seduction - maybe desperation is too strong a word, maybe resignation, and it appealed to me a lot and I guess it appealed to Nikolai's decent chore. I think it was what prompted that incredible tenderness Nikolai couldn't help feeling and that gave emotions to their sexual encounters.
Nikolai was a bit too perfect, I think, he did all the right things, especially when compared to his sister and her vengeful email. Now I don't know at which point this becomes a spoiler. Maybe in the context of this book if you haven't read Special Forces everything is, so let's tag it. There are a lot of feelings that were hinted at, but not really explored, and really, what's a romance-romance without a bit of drama?!
The corporate setting was interesting and it was done very well. I loved the contrast between Nikolai's more blue-collar origins and the corporate environment he was thrown in, this contrast between appearances and substance.
A very quick and sweetly romantic read.
If you read this book expecting the gut-wrenching intensity of Special Forces, this book is a whole different beast - it's more like your house pet - but if you're looking for a pick-me-up contemporary romance, which makes you want to strip the next man in a suit you meet, it's for you AND you'll get to see a mature Vadim that you'd love to tend to like that poor waiter in the book.
The story is in the point-of-view of Nikolai and while we got to see his side of the story and know his motivations, learning how a sane, loyal and good guy he is, his love/lust interest, Henri LeBeau, remained a bit out of reach. I really wanted to find a connection with him and I couldn't, but still I liked him. He was a man with something to prove, but also a man probably dissatisfied with his life. I saw a sort of desperation in his seduction - maybe desperation is too strong a word, maybe resignation, and it appealed to me a lot and I guess it appealed to Nikolai's decent chore. I think it was what prompted that incredible tenderness Nikolai couldn't help feeling and that gave emotions to their sexual encounters.
Nikolai was a bit too perfect, I think, he did all the right things, especially when compared to his sister and her vengeful email. Now I don't know at which point this becomes a spoiler. Maybe in the context of this book if you haven't read Special Forces everything is, so let's tag it. There are a lot of feelings that were hinted at, but not really explored, and really, what's a romance-romance without a bit of drama?!
The corporate setting was interesting and it was done very well. I loved the contrast between Nikolai's more blue-collar origins and the corporate environment he was thrown in, this contrast between appearances and substance.
A very quick and sweetly romantic read.
July 13, 2018
4.5 Stars!
Thank you to my GRs friends for alerting me to this gem! I’ve read one other AV book and I quite enjoyed it too. Still trying to work up the courage to read Special Forces....maybe some day.
But for now, this one was great. Fantastic writing. You can’t help but get immersed in the setting and scene.
Really great main characters. Low angst. Off the charts sex. And even some laughs.
Winner winner chicken dinner.
Thank you to my GRs friends for alerting me to this gem! I’ve read one other AV book and I quite enjoyed it too. Still trying to work up the courage to read Special Forces....maybe some day.
But for now, this one was great. Fantastic writing. You can’t help but get immersed in the setting and scene.
Really great main characters. Low angst. Off the charts sex. And even some laughs.
Winner winner chicken dinner.
January 7, 2017
This was my second read of this fantastic book and I loved it even better the second time around. A lovely story of a lonely man with no sense of family other than his military and business buddies who falls in love with the man he is in the process of doing a high powered deal with. It was heartbreaking, passionate, dirty, sad, happy and romantic. I can absolutely recommend this story to any and all M/M romance fans. I'm quite sure I'll read it a third time some day.
September 18, 2012
I didn't realize how much I missed SF, especially Vadim until I picked up Gold Digger. I really think Mr. Voinov did a great job intertwining both the Nikolai/Henri and the Nikolai/Vadim storylines. In Gold Digger, we get to delve deeper into Nikolai's life. Nikolai is a man who never really fit in with his cut-throat family. He's kind, forgiving, a loyal friend and colleague but he's constantly on the run. He never settles down anywhere or allows himself to get close to anyone. That is until he meets Henri. Although Nikolai denied and fought his feelings for Henri, there was still a connection and passion that came through. However, even with the pull Nikolai and Henri had, I still think the relationship developed too quickly. I thought Nikolai started off with the right amount of distance and questioning but by the end I did a double take at the changes that took over him. I’m glad Nikolai took a risk to be with Henri but the fact that Nikolai
At times, I also thought Nikolai was a bit too awkward and naïve about his sexuality. Considering his family dynamics, I wouldn’t have expected this. I understood the doubts. It was completely believable that Nikolai would have a problem with being intimate with a man but he seemed to dismiss his feelings far too quickly and the reason for that didn’t come through for me.
This book would have been perfect if it was a bit longer. There was a lot going on. I felt many issues needed more time to develop. Mainly, I wanted more of Nikolai dealing with That was a major issue in the book and it also brought Nikolai and Vadim closer together so I think it deserved a bit more page time. Overall, I think Nikolai took things far too well. He even got over his conflict with Anya fairly quickly. I would have liked to have seen more of them.
This brings me to Vadim! I absolutely loved how Nikolai and Vadim's relationship came together. To see them develop a father/son bond was so touching and heartfelt. The time they spent together in New Zealand was priceless and filled me with so much warmth. Vadim finally opened up and became the father Nikolai needed. This was a very intense and fulfilling moment. Can you tell how I feel about Nikolai and Vadim? Ok, end of gushing.
This is a great SF spin-off especially for all you Vadim fans out there.
At times, I also thought Nikolai was a bit too awkward and naïve about his sexuality. Considering his family dynamics, I wouldn’t have expected this. I understood the doubts. It was completely believable that Nikolai would have a problem with being intimate with a man but he seemed to dismiss his feelings far too quickly and the reason for that didn’t come through for me.
This book would have been perfect if it was a bit longer. There was a lot going on. I felt many issues needed more time to develop. Mainly, I wanted more of Nikolai dealing with That was a major issue in the book and it also brought Nikolai and Vadim closer together so I think it deserved a bit more page time. Overall, I think Nikolai took things far too well. He even got over his conflict with Anya fairly quickly. I would have liked to have seen more of them.
This brings me to Vadim! I absolutely loved how Nikolai and Vadim's relationship came together. To see them develop a father/son bond was so touching and heartfelt. The time they spent together in New Zealand was priceless and filled me with so much warmth. Vadim finally opened up and became the father Nikolai needed. This was a very intense and fulfilling moment. Can you tell how I feel about Nikolai and Vadim? Ok, end of gushing.
This is a great SF spin-off especially for all you Vadim fans out there.
September 21, 2012
”And you never know what kind of memory will keep you going when you need it.”
From blasts of sci-fi fun to beautiful, breath-taking words of romance and hope, I never know what my heart will find or feel in an Aleksandr Voinov story. My Voinov reading adventures so far have pulled and provoked fierce bouts of protectiveness, anguish, anger, joy, love, lust, and longing. The power and range of emotions is staggering, stunning, and a bit scary. But this could be the first time Mr. Voinov’s words and characters made my heart and soul actually “awww”. :)
Gold Digger is a Special Forces Spinoff. Hold up. Let me say that again because I’m still in a happy daze-haze here. Special. Forces. Spinoff. *heart skips a beat* Special Forces is an epic journey of war, hope, life, and love between Dan and Vadim. I could tell you more (aka weep and ramble), but just go read it! Please. It is a reading experience like no other. Gold Digger tells the story of Vadim’s son.
We meet Nikolai Krasnorada in the middle of a corporate battle and emotional struggle filled with revelations on the family front that may change everything in Nikolai’s world and heart. I liked Nikolai through and through from the get-go. A fierce loyalty, gentleness, and caring nature shines through in every move Nikolai makes in business and love. But his world seems to tilt and shift as soon as Henri LeBeau, a business rival and possible threat, enters his life. Enemies in the boardroom, but perhaps much more in their hearts.
Okay. So let me get this confession out here and now. Vadim Petrovich Krasnorada is my favorite literary character of all time, so to see him live, breath, and move on the page again made me very happy. Heart thumping-pumping ecstatic even! He is the superstar walking on set. Crowd hushes, people stare, and drool. As soon as he entered the room, I could not look away. My heart wanted to stay right there with Vadim. I actually stopped, backtracked, and read the New Zealand visit again before continuing Nikolai’s story. I love the man.
“Vadim sat, at the far end, back to the wall, seemingly playing with his smartphone—or really plotting who to kill first in this room with nothing more than a cocktail umbrella.”
*giggles* Just needed to share that moment.
So it should come as no surprise that my favorite moments in this book are between father and son. To see Vadim be there for his son when he needed him, to offer his support and words of wisdom created a very special reading experience for me. Both men deserve the time together and peace in their lives and hearts. A peace only the past and truth can bring. I loved their interactions here on the page. Each hand squeeze, honest conversation, open smile, and seemingly little actions filled with such thoughtfulness—like Nikolai grabbing a business card for his father because he thought he would enjoy the restaurant experience as well—all added up to pure reading joy for me. Sharing, talking, and connecting. Their father-son chemistry and time on the page was gentle, heart warming and beautiful.
Now Henri was another story for me. The banter and chemistry between Henri and Nikolai was fun and hot, but somehow Henri did not touch my heart. I just couldn’t see or feel him. What I did feel though was an overwhelming longing for a home from both men. A place to feel welcome, display their pasts, and create new memories. Nikolai lived on the move for work, from place to place, with no solid base to call home. Henri lived in a gorgeous, but rather impersonal space. Together perhaps they can find a home. Become home to each other.
I would love to see and experience more of this golden world! Ruslan caught my eye for sure. I’m hoping he has some tales to share.
Gold Digger is a true treat and MUST READ for Special Forces fans, but this tale also presents a warm introduction to Mr. Voinov’s work and words. So come on…
Come meet the family. The unforgettable Krasnorada bunch will leave a mark.
My favorite SF Tidbit:
September 10, 2016
Color me surprised!
This was a Voinov book with a relatively low angst level and was actually fairly sweet.
I absolutely adored the premise of this novel. Nikolai, a man who has never allowed himself to settle down with anyone because he is afraid of ending up as hurt and as messed up as his family, finds sparks flying with the heir of an opposing mining corporation: Henri Lebeau. Even more astounding, he begins falling for the handsome, charismatic, and flirtatious Henri. This book had a mild enemies-to-lovers theme, which I wholly enjoyed!
Nikolai was just an all-around amazing character. Beneath the gruff exterior is a kind-hearted and utterly loyal man who is charmingly quirky.
Since I enjoyed the story and the MCs so much, why give it only 3 stars?
Well, for a few reasons.
I felt that there was a lot of telling and not showing in the relationship between Nikolai and Henri. Besides the initial physical attraction between the characters, I did not really feel a strong connection between the MCs that would make them want to pursue a caring relationship. We were told that they were falling for each other and that they had a deeper connection than the amazingly hot sex they shared, but I did not really feel it as much as I should have.
Which leads me to my next point. I think the reason that the relationship between Nikolai and Henri did not develop convincingly for me was that a lot of the book was devoted to other events that detracted from the MCs. A good portion of the book was allocated to dealing with the problems Nikolai's company faced. I could have done with a lot less talk about investments and bankers and "white knights." While it was all easy to understand what the characters were talking about, I just didn't care.
Overall, despite my niggles, I did find the story enjoyable and very sweet. Also, the ending was just perfect and so romantic.
I think Special Forces fans should definitely give this book a try. Vadim, Nikolai's father and an MC from SF, does play a huge role in this book. If nothing else, I really think SF fans would be happy with how often Vadim is seen in this book.
How about non-SF fans? I would still recommend it. Even though I did have some hang-ups, I certainly don't regret reading this entertaining, delightful, and light-hearted novel with two likable MCs who found love in each other's arms when neither had before in their lives.
Oh, and in case you're wondering, you definitely don't have to read Special Forces to understand everything that is going on in this book. Voinov provided enough background information in order for readers to comprehend everything; this book is a standalone!
This was a Voinov book with a relatively low angst level and was actually fairly sweet.
I absolutely adored the premise of this novel. Nikolai, a man who has never allowed himself to settle down with anyone because he is afraid of ending up as hurt and as messed up as his family, finds sparks flying with the heir of an opposing mining corporation: Henri Lebeau. Even more astounding, he begins falling for the handsome, charismatic, and flirtatious Henri. This book had a mild enemies-to-lovers theme, which I wholly enjoyed!
Nikolai was just an all-around amazing character. Beneath the gruff exterior is a kind-hearted and utterly loyal man who is charmingly quirky.
Henri laughed. "It was that. Nice. Unexpected. You're a giving guy, gentle and strong. You can't imagine how alluring that makes you."I loved seeing Nikolai grow as a person and realize that it is okay to want more than casual relationships and random hookups and that a loving relationship with someone he truly cares about is worth fighting for.
...Henri...looking collected and happy. That's because of me, he thought, and something in his chest pinged with a painful tenderness. He couldn't for the life of him decide when it all happened, or even when he'd fully accepted it. Nothing else had worked out, but this here, this was real and he enjoyed it and he cared about Henri.Henri was just perfect for Nikolai. He understood Nikolai's hang-ups and gently nudged and supported Nikolai through his problems.
Since I enjoyed the story and the MCs so much, why give it only 3 stars?
Well, for a few reasons.
I felt that there was a lot of telling and not showing in the relationship between Nikolai and Henri. Besides the initial physical attraction between the characters, I did not really feel a strong connection between the MCs that would make them want to pursue a caring relationship. We were told that they were falling for each other and that they had a deeper connection than the amazingly hot sex they shared, but I did not really feel it as much as I should have.
Which leads me to my next point. I think the reason that the relationship between Nikolai and Henri did not develop convincingly for me was that a lot of the book was devoted to other events that detracted from the MCs. A good portion of the book was allocated to dealing with the problems Nikolai's company faced. I could have done with a lot less talk about investments and bankers and "white knights." While it was all easy to understand what the characters were talking about, I just didn't care.
Overall, despite my niggles, I did find the story enjoyable and very sweet. Also, the ending was just perfect and so romantic.
I think Special Forces fans should definitely give this book a try. Vadim, Nikolai's father and an MC from SF, does play a huge role in this book. If nothing else, I really think SF fans would be happy with how often Vadim is seen in this book.
How about non-SF fans? I would still recommend it. Even though I did have some hang-ups, I certainly don't regret reading this entertaining, delightful, and light-hearted novel with two likable MCs who found love in each other's arms when neither had before in their lives.
Oh, and in case you're wondering, you definitely don't have to read Special Forces to understand everything that is going on in this book. Voinov provided enough background information in order for readers to comprehend everything; this book is a standalone!
September 13, 2018
Another foray into Aleksandr Voinov writing world. This time, it’s a romance with a low angst level (actually almost sweet compared to what I previously read), with a few protagonists from his previous series “Special Forces” (it’s a “spin-off” where Vadim and his kids are present, Nikolai, his son, being one of the MCs).
The main characters are Nikolai and Henri, meeting during a business deal on the opposite side of the negotiating table, with Henri totally set into “wooing” Nikolai and Nikolai not that averse to the idea, while reflecting on his bonds with his family and on his future.
The intrigue was set in the corporate world, which brutality is less physical than in the "war" world. As this author has a way to take me right into a story, that was a good thing for my stomach.
My niggle : I would have loved more of Nikolai and Henri settled as a couple. That’s a niggle that is also the force of Aleksandr Voinov’s talent : I can’t help being fascinated by his characters.
The main characters are Nikolai and Henri, meeting during a business deal on the opposite side of the negotiating table, with Henri totally set into “wooing” Nikolai and Nikolai not that averse to the idea, while reflecting on his bonds with his family and on his future.
The intrigue was set in the corporate world, which brutality is less physical than in the "war" world. As this author has a way to take me right into a story, that was a good thing for my stomach.
My niggle : I would have loved more of Nikolai and Henri settled as a couple. That’s a niggle that is also the force of Aleksandr Voinov’s talent : I can’t help being fascinated by his characters.
March 4, 2014
My first Aleksandr Voinov. An author I've been wanting to get to. Finally - Yay! I think, a good introduction. I'll eventually get to the 'real stuff' of Aleksandr but this was a nice and easy segway!
March 1, 2014
4.5 SoLiD GoLd StArS
I am enchanted with Aleksandr Voinov's writing, my all time favourite author. So to read another one of his works wasorgasmic heaven.
I absolutely D.E.V.O.U.R.E.D. it!!
Nikolai Krasnorada works for Cybele, a gold exploration company based in Armenia. He is in Toronto heading a meeting to seek a partnership with giants - LeBeau Mining. Nikolai finds himself sitting across the table with the head of LeBeau Mining, and his charming nephew Henri LeBeau.
The CEO of LeBeau seems interested in the company but decides to sit on his decision, suggesting his nephew, Henri take Nikolai and his colleague Tamas out on the town for the evening.
Henri LeBeau is charming, smart, confident and has an obvious attraction for Nikolai.
HENRI
I felt the sexual tension and chemistry was really strong between the two, I liked the build up and the sex scenes between them were HOT.
Nikolai is fiercely loyal, intelligent and extremely sexy.
NIKOLAI
I adored their flirty banter......
I am enchanted with Aleksandr Voinov's writing, my all time favourite author. So to read another one of his works was
I absolutely D.E.V.O.U.R.E.D. it!!
Nikolai Krasnorada works for Cybele, a gold exploration company based in Armenia. He is in Toronto heading a meeting to seek a partnership with giants - LeBeau Mining. Nikolai finds himself sitting across the table with the head of LeBeau Mining, and his charming nephew Henri LeBeau.
The CEO of LeBeau seems interested in the company but decides to sit on his decision, suggesting his nephew, Henri take Nikolai and his colleague Tamas out on the town for the evening.
Henri LeBeau is charming, smart, confident and has an obvious attraction for Nikolai.
HENRI
I felt the sexual tension and chemistry was really strong between the two, I liked the build up and the sex scenes between them were HOT.
Nikolai is fiercely loyal, intelligent and extremely sexy.
NIKOLAI
I adored their flirty banter......
Holy shit, you're the most accomplished stalker.... I've ever met."
"It's not stalking if you like it.”
I must admit I have been missing my 'Special Forces' boys....and this certainly wetted my appetite.. I love Vadim and his relationship with his son Nikolai, the interactions between them were beautiful, honest and left me sighing.
.....and I was so glad Nikolai didn't like the slimy bastard Jean as well...loved that little dig!!
Yet again Voinov packs a punch with this little beauty. Short, sexy, easy read. LOVED IT!!
September 17, 2012
4 stars although I’m tempted to add 1 for SF lingering side effects
Gold Digger is a sweet, sensual romance in the middle of a business war.
Henri notices Nicolai who is presenting his corporation in the hope of finding a financial partnership and from then onwards launches a takeover on Nicolai’s body and heart.
His seduction is first purely, splendidly erotic, an affect of all senses, arousing sexual desire and finding chemistry, leading to a sweet, romantic pursuit and very hot encounters.
The war rages in the background, adding some suspense and offering an unexpected pretty twist.
It is also a story with characters who come to terms without excessive drama with their family and who they are outside being the child of somebody. The few reflexions on parent/child relationship scattered all around the book and the father/son moments with Vadim (*bites knuckles*) give just the right amount of depth to the characters and to the story.
Now, I’m a SF fan and a Vadim girl (you know, the waiter lingering adoringly in Vadim’s wake…).
I was thrilled to have him back and have a glimpse of his life after Special Forces - Veterans!
Of course I projected! My mind intertwined the mythology of Gold Digger with the fable of Special Forces and the story became also about Nicolai being the lion’s child (contrary to being the spetsnaz’s child) and I loved this superimposed picture all along.
Anyway, SF fan or not, Gold Digger is a very enjoyable reading and I dare you not to melt and fan yourself.
“They worked together, every gleaming line, every taut muscle.”
Gold Digger is a sweet, sensual romance in the middle of a business war.
Henri notices Nicolai who is presenting his corporation in the hope of finding a financial partnership and from then onwards launches a takeover on Nicolai’s body and heart.
His seduction is first purely, splendidly erotic, an affect of all senses, arousing sexual desire and finding chemistry, leading to a sweet, romantic pursuit and very hot encounters.
The war rages in the background, adding some suspense and offering an unexpected pretty twist.
It is also a story with characters who come to terms without excessive drama with their family and who they are outside being the child of somebody. The few reflexions on parent/child relationship scattered all around the book and the father/son moments with Vadim (*bites knuckles*) give just the right amount of depth to the characters and to the story.
Now, I’m a SF fan and a Vadim girl (you know, the waiter lingering adoringly in Vadim’s wake…).
I was thrilled to have him back and have a glimpse of his life after Special Forces - Veterans!
Of course I projected! My mind intertwined the mythology of Gold Digger with the fable of Special Forces and the story became also about Nicolai being the lion’s child (contrary to being the spetsnaz’s child) and I loved this superimposed picture all along.
Anyway, SF fan or not, Gold Digger is a very enjoyable reading and I dare you not to melt and fan yourself.
“They worked together, every gleaming line, every taut muscle.”
November 14, 2012
I always knew I was going to love Gold Digger! I bloody knew it!
And I did, I really really did!
You see - I've been a lost and wondering soul since reading the cult series Special Forces. I have missed all the characters so very much. I have mourned them desperately, so I saved this novella - a spin off for when I knew I really really needed it.
I savoured every decadent and delicious word - just like savouring my fave choccies that get hidden away in my very secret place until my resolve crumbles. Aleksandr Voinov and chocolates... my wicked addiction.
Gold Digger is an intriguing education in the politics and workings of business and mining, made even more fascinating when you throw in the very gorgeous, very straight Nickolai and devilishly sexy Henri. They had me so very entertained right from the start.
Henri has been around the block and knows exactly what he wants when he see's it.
This time, what he wants is Nickolai, and if any one can turn a straight man gay it's Henri. He is lip licking scrumptious in very a suave and debonair way.
This story is fast moving with none of the usual bullshit procrastinating that I seem to find in abundance in all other novels just lately. It's a cut throat look into the business world as well as, erotic, sensual, intelligent and highly addictive reading. There are some classic blunt lines in true Voinov form, that had me choking on my chocolates. Yes, I was being totally indulgent, Voinov aaand chocolates....divine!
Now I know and love Nickolai from his brief appearances in Special Forces and his relationship with Vadim. So I had an advantage, but Henri is new to me and I still clicked with him instantly! Easy to love and easy to lust over too, both of them. Bonus!
The highlight of this book, and the earner of a huge extra star ( and only because I am biased) had to be when Vadim walks into the airport! My veil of mourning was thrown back and the joy I felt nearly had me sobbing.
There he was in all his awesome scariness and I nearly wept!
If that wasn't enough, I got all teary eyed and emotional over the bonding with Nickolai and Vadim, it was just so wonderful and heart warming. I was a blubbering mess!
I usually don't like novella's and very often feel short changed when it comes to character and plot development, I'm a greedy, insatiable and obsessive reader and always want more of everything out of a story.
With Gold Digger, I was left feeling very sated with a huge grin on my face, except I wanted more of Henri - see...I'm insatiable!
4.5 Stars! Rounding up of course:)
And I did, I really really did!
You see - I've been a lost and wondering soul since reading the cult series Special Forces. I have missed all the characters so very much. I have mourned them desperately, so I saved this novella - a spin off for when I knew I really really needed it.
I savoured every decadent and delicious word - just like savouring my fave choccies that get hidden away in my very secret place until my resolve crumbles. Aleksandr Voinov and chocolates... my wicked addiction.
Gold Digger is an intriguing education in the politics and workings of business and mining, made even more fascinating when you throw in the very gorgeous, very straight Nickolai and devilishly sexy Henri. They had me so very entertained right from the start.
Henri has been around the block and knows exactly what he wants when he see's it.
This time, what he wants is Nickolai, and if any one can turn a straight man gay it's Henri. He is lip licking scrumptious in very a suave and debonair way.
This story is fast moving with none of the usual bullshit procrastinating that I seem to find in abundance in all other novels just lately. It's a cut throat look into the business world as well as, erotic, sensual, intelligent and highly addictive reading. There are some classic blunt lines in true Voinov form, that had me choking on my chocolates. Yes, I was being totally indulgent, Voinov aaand chocolates....divine!
Now I know and love Nickolai from his brief appearances in Special Forces and his relationship with Vadim. So I had an advantage, but Henri is new to me and I still clicked with him instantly! Easy to love and easy to lust over too, both of them. Bonus!
The highlight of this book, and the earner of a huge extra star ( and only because I am biased) had to be when Vadim walks into the airport! My veil of mourning was thrown back and the joy I felt nearly had me sobbing.
There he was in all his awesome scariness and I nearly wept!
If that wasn't enough, I got all teary eyed and emotional over the bonding with Nickolai and Vadim, it was just so wonderful and heart warming. I was a blubbering mess!
I usually don't like novella's and very often feel short changed when it comes to character and plot development, I'm a greedy, insatiable and obsessive reader and always want more of everything out of a story.
With Gold Digger, I was left feeling very sated with a huge grin on my face, except I wanted more of Henri - see...I'm insatiable!
4.5 Stars! Rounding up of course:)
March 7, 2013
I enjoyed the book more than I thought. Nikolai's story fascinated me from the beginning and I couldn't get enough.
Gold Digger is a romance but the settings are amazing. Interesting characters (I like Nikolai's boss and friend Ruslan), sensuality and intrigue – it's plain and simple fascinating! It's a real Voinov, the writing will take you right into the action and you can't stop reading.
The developing relationship between Nikolai and Henri is interesting to read, but the highlights of the book are the moments with Vadim, Nikolai's Dad.
Two weeks ago I finished reading Special Forces and I missed Vadim so much. It was so wonderful to catch up with our Russkie.
“Is he still an enemy?“
“Well, that's the turning point in any good relationship with an enemy. When you're not so sure anymore.“ Vadim rubbed his wrists, as if remembering something...
And with a BANG I was back to Special Forces and in my mind I saw Vadim and Dan fighting for their lives and their love.
It seems that Nikolai doesn't know much about Vadims past but he is aware of what he is capable of.
Nikolai paused while the waiter brought the coffee and water and then vanished back behind the bar to linger adoringly where Vadim sat, at the far end, back to the wall, seemingly playing with his smartphone—or really plotting who to kill first in this room with nothing more than a cocktail umbrella.
And I fell in love all over again with Vadim's rare smiles. :)
“Nikolai couldn’t help but grin at his father’s bright smile at that. Always so serious, but when something really touched Vadim’s heart, he smiled like this, lighting up his face and the whole world around him.
I will finish my review with a scene that went to my heart straight away:
Nikolai smiled, moved closer, and leaned his head against Vadim’s shoulder. It might look weird on the outside, but it didn’t actually feel strange. Just one of the easy, casual (or really not casual at all), meaningful touches he hadn’t received as a child. Making up for lost time...
*deep sigh*
Surely you can read Gold Digger without knowing Special Forces. But you would miss so much - the hints regarding Nikolai's mother Katya, his cold bitchy sister Anya and Jean, Dan's friend with benefits... huh... I love that Nikolai can't stand Jean. What a smart guy!
Now I can't wait for the sequel „Pure Gold“. But I have to... Hmpf :D
----
Does my review look like I'm a Vadim slut? No, it doesn't... ! *sneaks a peek at Macky*
October 20, 2013
Yum. Smart, sexy love story that made me laugh.
Nikolai is the Texas Ranger in this modern tale of rare metal mining cowboys. Cybele, a brash startup in the high stakes game of gold mining makes an overture for funding to expand operations to extract a major, untapped source. I like the Wild West references to the ex-Communist states and a big thank you for the incredibly sassy mythological references in this one. Not happy about the poor Attis boys of yore--definitely, want them intact. I think Henri would agree.
If Nikolai is the Ranger, then Henri is the slick robber baron heir. Henri's persona is reminiscent of Lord Blakeley of the Scarlet Pimpernel--easily dismissed as a dilettante, but hiding key skills from the ignorant and unworthy. That said, I want to drive his car.
Their meeting, an unexpected catalyst. Simply undeniably erotic, these two took several scenes from my personal "Best of" reel.
The story stands on its own, but another treat for "Special Forces" fans is a guest appearance by Vadim. The family context adds a lot to both this story and to Vadim's background. Still sexy, but mellowed by age and love. It is fun seeing him through Nikolai's eyes.
Now, I'd love to see more of this story not just because Nikolai and Henri are beautiful, but I'd enjoy finding out more about Ruslan, Nikolai's friend and boss. At first, I wanted to compare him to Reardon from "Atlas Shrugged", but honestly, he's Galt.
Favorite quote for personal reasons:
Nikolai is the Texas Ranger in this modern tale of rare metal mining cowboys. Cybele, a brash startup in the high stakes game of gold mining makes an overture for funding to expand operations to extract a major, untapped source. I like the Wild West references to the ex-Communist states and a big thank you for the incredibly sassy mythological references in this one. Not happy about the poor Attis boys of yore--definitely, want them intact. I think Henri would agree.
If Nikolai is the Ranger, then Henri is the slick robber baron heir. Henri's persona is reminiscent of Lord Blakeley of the Scarlet Pimpernel--easily dismissed as a dilettante, but hiding key skills from the ignorant and unworthy. That said, I want to drive his car.
Their meeting, an unexpected catalyst. Simply undeniably erotic, these two took several scenes from my personal "Best of" reel.
“Let me . . . see,” Nikolai said, breathless.If that seems hot, then round two will just melt your ereader.
The story stands on its own, but another treat for "Special Forces" fans is a guest appearance by Vadim. The family context adds a lot to both this story and to Vadim's background. Still sexy, but mellowed by age and love. It is fun seeing him through Nikolai's eyes.
Nikolai paused while the waiter brought the coffee and water and then vanished back behind the bar to linger adoringly where Vadim sat, at the far end, back to the wall, seemingly playing with his smartphone—or really plotting who to kill first in this room with nothing more than a cocktail umbrella.
Now, I'd love to see more of this story not just because Nikolai and Henri are beautiful, but I'd enjoy finding out more about Ruslan, Nikolai's friend and boss. At first, I wanted to compare him to Reardon from "Atlas Shrugged", but honestly, he's Galt.
Favorite quote for personal reasons:
You’d be quite sane and well-adjusted if your family had happened to somebody else, his last ex had told him.
March 15, 2016
I enjoyed this, it helped with the withdrawal I'd been suffering since finishing 'Special Forces'.
This is a surprisingly upbeat and angst free read from this author whom I absolutely adore and am fast becoming obsessed with. I love his style of writing.
The development of Nikolai and Henri's relationship was very sweet and I liked Nikolai's attitude to life in general. I really liked how he accepted that he was attracted to Henri without a ton of drama, also how he dealt with the revelations about his family and Anya's general disgusting behavior. Henri was a sweetheart and I found him to be very brave even when Nikolai may have thought that he wasn't.
I wish it had of been a bit longer and I would of loved to have seen some of the other SF characters but I understand that there are copyright issues so it really can't be helped.
October 29, 2012
This has the smooth, clean writing of Aleks Voinov in his lighter incarnation, in a short book about a man finding love in a very unexpected place. The glimpse of Vadim, ever more at home in his New Zealand life, is a treat for Special Forces fans (although if you haven't read SF yet, be aware that it took Vadim decades on a very dark, hard road to get to where he is now.) I enjoyed meeting Nicolai as an adult, and adored Henri, despite a feeling that everything was going much too fast. I was pleased that the plot dilemma was resolved in a very believable way, and wished I could hang around as a fly on the wall for the next month of Nicolai and Henri's life.
November 15, 2016
I did not read Aleksandr Voinov’s Special Forces series yet, and I'll not make any parallels with its glorious predecessors. Apparently, there were some flashbacks of Vadim's past that I felt a need to know more, but it's all on my account.
This’s not all about business and hot monkey sex, thought there are lots of them. This's just to begin with.
Nikolay Krasnorada has been working for a company that explores and mines gold in Armenia for a long time (from the very beginning), and he is in a close friendship with the CEO. Their current financial condition requires to be found a larger cash-donor. Nicolay presents and proposes their intentions to the CEO of LeBeau and also his nephew, Henri- representatives of a potential investor in Toronto, Canada. As usual every businesses trip is accompanied by some leisure time, and Henri offers to show Nikolai around the city and takes him out to dinner. After a little alcohol all restraints fall away. It's absolutely unsuspected and unprofessional idea of corporate bonding, but it's just a new chapter for Nicolay, who has never been with a man (although he has thought about it a little). In parallel,it is revealed some family secrets related with his parentage.
The story is about Nicolay's exploration of a sexual relationship and developing a deeper bong and probably then a commitment. It's about his choice whether to betraying someone who’s been nothing but good to him. There is also conflict over the business dealings and a lesson about the father-son relationship.
Finding a pure gold in the adversary nest seems challenging, but Nicolay can give Henry a go. If his father, Vadim, could manage to live contentedly with a former enemy what would stop him to do the same. At the end of the day, it is people who matter, not companies.
The audio-narration is so British. So powerful, especially all the way through the 'French' part, in this case is French-Canadian. It's been one of those frozen moments that I forgot to breathe during. Flesh slapping flesh, making the bed creak and groan. It's a totally different category to imagining- erotic, intense, slowly and harsh,dirty talks and fantasies. The orgasms build rapidly, longer and longer until there’s nothing left of them but a faint memory of their fragrance.
But being critical, so many things are going on that I felt they've been a bit more forced and rushed. I needed more length for building up the relationships.
Taking into account all things, I really loved this book. It was sexy, kinky, clever and a really great addition to the genre.
This is Voinov!
100% pure Voinov!
And,
it is incredible.
This’s not all about business and hot monkey sex, thought there are lots of them. This's just to begin with.
Nikolay Krasnorada has been working for a company that explores and mines gold in Armenia for a long time (from the very beginning), and he is in a close friendship with the CEO. Their current financial condition requires to be found a larger cash-donor. Nicolay presents and proposes their intentions to the CEO of LeBeau and also his nephew, Henri- representatives of a potential investor in Toronto, Canada. As usual every businesses trip is accompanied by some leisure time, and Henri offers to show Nikolai around the city and takes him out to dinner. After a little alcohol all restraints fall away. It's absolutely unsuspected and unprofessional idea of corporate bonding, but it's just a new chapter for Nicolay, who has never been with a man (although he has thought about it a little). In parallel,it is revealed some family secrets related with his parentage.
The story is about Nicolay's exploration of a sexual relationship and developing a deeper bong and probably then a commitment. It's about his choice whether to betraying someone who’s been nothing but good to him. There is also conflict over the business dealings and a lesson about the father-son relationship.
Finding a pure gold in the adversary nest seems challenging, but Nicolay can give Henry a go. If his father, Vadim, could manage to live contentedly with a former enemy what would stop him to do the same. At the end of the day, it is people who matter, not companies.
The audio-narration is so British. So powerful, especially all the way through the 'French' part, in this case is French-Canadian. It's been one of those frozen moments that I forgot to breathe during. Flesh slapping flesh, making the bed creak and groan. It's a totally different category to imagining- erotic, intense, slowly and harsh,dirty talks and fantasies. The orgasms build rapidly, longer and longer until there’s nothing left of them but a faint memory of their fragrance.
But being critical, so many things are going on that I felt they've been a bit more forced and rushed. I needed more length for building up the relationships.
Taking into account all things, I really loved this book. It was sexy, kinky, clever and a really great addition to the genre.
This is Voinov!
100% pure Voinov!
And,
it is incredible.
September 18, 2012
Gold Digger is a fascinating story, with interesting characters and sizzling sex (and dirty talk that took me totally by surprise).
While the developing relationship between Nikolai and Henri interested me, the most poignant moments in the book, the ones that made it most memorable, are the moments with Vadim. So alive, so touching, so real.
Having read quite a lot of reviews of this book in the past few days, I knew in general what to expect. Basically I got what I went in for, which is always a great experience for me. The surprising emotional impact of Vadim's presence and his conversations with Nikolai was a definite plus.
Finally, I need to show my appreciation of Nikolai being called Kolya. Because it enhances the Slavic impression and I'm a sucker for those.
While the developing relationship between Nikolai and Henri interested me, the most poignant moments in the book, the ones that made it most memorable, are the moments with Vadim. So alive, so touching, so real.
Having read quite a lot of reviews of this book in the past few days, I knew in general what to expect. Basically I got what I went in for, which is always a great experience for me. The surprising emotional impact of Vadim's presence and his conversations with Nikolai was a definite plus.
Finally, I need to show my appreciation of Nikolai being called Kolya. Because it enhances the Slavic impression and I'm a sucker for those.
October 20, 2012
I'd really like to be able to give an impartial review of this book as a stand alone, but alas, I cannot. I just finished Special Forces less than a week ago, so no doubt that affected my judgement of this book. I was very much looking forward to getting to know Nikolai and to catch up with my real love, Vadim. So, pardon me if I'm biased!
Picking this up after the last couple of weeks I've had felt like stepping out on a sunny day after a storm, with rainbows everywhere. It was a light, easy, quick read - so, pretty much the complete opposite of SF. The writing style was also very different, almost American sounding (quite a few 'awesomes' in there) which was unexpected, but it helped me in a way to differentiate Nikolai from the rest of the Krasnoradas.
Henry and Nikolai are both very likable characters, and their relationship came along rather easy considering it was Nik's first time with a man. They might have shacked up faster than a couple of lesbians, but hey, I guess when you know, you just know! Right!?! I would very much like a follow up with them in the future to see how things progress. It felt as if there is much more to be explored (sexual innuendo intended).
I have to admit, the best part of this was visiting Vadim. Every time I saw his name on the page I smiled like a goon, even with all his obvious remaining issues. I also found it a little funny that Voinov decided Dan 'was on vacation' during this story. Hahaha, nice. Didn't bother me any!
I will definitely keep an eye out for the next book!
Picking this up after the last couple of weeks I've had felt like stepping out on a sunny day after a storm, with rainbows everywhere. It was a light, easy, quick read - so, pretty much the complete opposite of SF. The writing style was also very different, almost American sounding (quite a few 'awesomes' in there) which was unexpected, but it helped me in a way to differentiate Nikolai from the rest of the Krasnoradas.
Henry and Nikolai are both very likable characters, and their relationship came along rather easy considering it was Nik's first time with a man. They might have shacked up faster than a couple of lesbians, but hey, I guess when you know, you just know! Right!?! I would very much like a follow up with them in the future to see how things progress. It felt as if there is much more to be explored (sexual innuendo intended).
I have to admit, the best part of this was visiting Vadim. Every time I saw his name on the page I smiled like a goon, even with all his obvious remaining issues. I also found it a little funny that Voinov decided Dan 'was on vacation' during this story. Hahaha, nice. Didn't bother me any!
I will definitely keep an eye out for the next book!
November 12, 2012
Nikolai has always considered himself a straight man. Men have made passes at him in the past but he has never been tempted, at least until meeting Henri LeBeau. The only problem was that Henri was a member of the team poised to take over the company that he was trying to save. Henri was never swayed and seemed to have no doubts from the start. That's how he stole my heart. He was so honest and endearing even though he worked for a cut throat organization. Nikolai couldn't deny his attraction to Henri but he had major doubts and the timing couldn't have been worse.
Voinov managed to write a short story of 125 pages that had more depth and character building than most writers manage in a full novel. The characters were richly layered. Fans of the Special Forces series will be delighted cause there was plenty of time spent with Vadim. What I was most impressed with was Voinov's ability to make me fall in love with Henri, and respect the hell out of Nikolai. Their love scenes were erotic and grew from hot n heavy to tender and sweet.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Henri and Nikolai have become one of my all time favorite couples. I won this book via a BDB book club contest, and I am very thankful because I have been introduced to a phenomenal writer.
Voinov managed to write a short story of 125 pages that had more depth and character building than most writers manage in a full novel. The characters were richly layered. Fans of the Special Forces series will be delighted cause there was plenty of time spent with Vadim. What I was most impressed with was Voinov's ability to make me fall in love with Henri, and respect the hell out of Nikolai. Their love scenes were erotic and grew from hot n heavy to tender and sweet.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Henri and Nikolai have become one of my all time favorite couples. I won this book via a BDB book club contest, and I am very thankful because I have been introduced to a phenomenal writer.
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