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Picture Winter
What happens when two Capricorns fall in love?
Do something new today.
Why he looks at his horoscope every day, Elias Hood doesn’t know. It’s all garbage, and no nickel fortune ever helped him climb all the way up the corporate ladder. He’s about to make Vice President. Rocking the boat with “something new” is the last thing on his mind.
But there’s this guy.
Ty Green can make friends with a tree and Elias can’t help falling for his easy-going vibe and his perfect smile. He’s a fellow Capricorn, like Elias, but that’s as far as their similarities go. Ty works to live—he doesn’t live to work. When Elias takes his horoscope’s advice and asks Ty out, both men are in for a shock. But as Elias’s walls start to come down, they might just realize that they have more in common than they think. In fact, they might even want the exact same thing.
Who knows? Maybe horoscopes aren’t just trash after all.
Do something new today.
Why he looks at his horoscope every day, Elias Hood doesn’t know. It’s all garbage, and no nickel fortune ever helped him climb all the way up the corporate ladder. He’s about to make Vice President. Rocking the boat with “something new” is the last thing on his mind.
But there’s this guy.
Ty Green can make friends with a tree and Elias can’t help falling for his easy-going vibe and his perfect smile. He’s a fellow Capricorn, like Elias, but that’s as far as their similarities go. Ty works to live—he doesn’t live to work. When Elias takes his horoscope’s advice and asks Ty out, both men are in for a shock. But as Elias’s walls start to come down, they might just realize that they have more in common than they think. In fact, they might even want the exact same thing.
Who knows? Maybe horoscopes aren’t just trash after all.
173 pages, ebook
First published October 6, 2017
About the author
Amy Aislin
39 books946 followersAmy's lived with her head in the clouds since she first picked up a book as a child, and being fluent in two languages means she's read a lot of books! She first picked up a pen on a rainy day in fourth grade when her class had to stay inside for recess. Tales of treasure hunts with her classmates eventually morphed into love stories between men, and she's been writing ever since. She writes evenings and weekends—or whenever she isn't at her full-time day job saving the planet at Canada's largest environmental non-profit.
An unapologetic introvert, Amy reads too much and socializes too little, with no regrets. She loves connecting with readers. Join her Facebook Group to stay up-to-date on upcoming releases and for access to early teasers, find her on Instagram and Twitter, or sign up for her infrequent newsletter here: http://bit.ly/AmyAislinNewsletter
An unapologetic introvert, Amy reads too much and socializes too little, with no regrets. She loves connecting with readers. Join her Facebook Group to stay up-to-date on upcoming releases and for access to early teasers, find her on Instagram and Twitter, or sign up for her infrequent newsletter here: http://bit.ly/AmyAislinNewsletter
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June 1, 2025
Elias is a stand alone romance by Amy Aislin. This was previously published under the title Picture Winter with a different cover but the content was not changed. This was a sweet, sexy story about two men who at first glance, shouldn’t have worked. But once they started to get to know each other, everything changed.
Elias Hood is thirty two years old and works for a company in Toronto where he has worked for seven years. The VP position is opening up soon and Elias feels like he has a real chance of getting the promotion. In his mind he has it all planned out, a sensible condo, a steady, reliable job. But on his way to work one morning, a silly mistake brought someone new into his life.
Ty Green is twenty six years old and is about as opposite from Elias as he could be. Where Elias is introverted, serious and quiet, Ty is easy to laugh, loud and friendly with everyone. Where Elias is completely focused on his career, on the outside, it would seem that Ty is carefree and just doing what he needs to get by.
A simple friendly gesture from Elias turns into more and before you know it, these two are spending all of their time together. Ty has a way of drawing out Elias, getting him to let his guard down. And Elias learns that he couldn’t have been more wrong about Ty. Together, they complement each other, they balance each other, they support one another.
I enjoyed this so much and it was my first book by Amy. I have many more on my to read list and can’t wait to get to them. This was such a sweet story and I so enjoyed getting to know these two. I loved how Elias was just sort of absorbed into Ty’s family. And I loved how they just made each other more. Now I’m off to her book list to see what I might choose next!
For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...
Elias Hood is thirty two years old and works for a company in Toronto where he has worked for seven years. The VP position is opening up soon and Elias feels like he has a real chance of getting the promotion. In his mind he has it all planned out, a sensible condo, a steady, reliable job. But on his way to work one morning, a silly mistake brought someone new into his life.
Ty Green is twenty six years old and is about as opposite from Elias as he could be. Where Elias is introverted, serious and quiet, Ty is easy to laugh, loud and friendly with everyone. Where Elias is completely focused on his career, on the outside, it would seem that Ty is carefree and just doing what he needs to get by.
A simple friendly gesture from Elias turns into more and before you know it, these two are spending all of their time together. Ty has a way of drawing out Elias, getting him to let his guard down. And Elias learns that he couldn’t have been more wrong about Ty. Together, they complement each other, they balance each other, they support one another.
I enjoyed this so much and it was my first book by Amy. I have many more on my to read list and can’t wait to get to them. This was such a sweet story and I so enjoyed getting to know these two. I loved how Elias was just sort of absorbed into Ty’s family. And I loved how they just made each other more. Now I’m off to her book list to see what I might choose next!
For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...
September 10, 2021
2 Hearts
Sorry, I dozed off there for a minute... or173 171 pages to be exact. I’ll warn you that this book wasn’t my cuppa. At all. There was zero angst, insta-love, not much going on in the plot department, and weak sauce “conflict” at the end that you can spot a mile away.
This was one of those reads that doesn't necessarily drag but nothing really happens. I didn't hate it. But I didn't like it either. I need something to hold my attention. Anything. This read was predictable and apparently an ode to regular daily events/thoughts with an abundance of detail.
Aloof Elias meets city worker (aka garbage man)Ty while walking to work one day. Ty gets on to Elias for putting trash into the wrong recycling bin and Elias is kinda an ass in response. After this encounter, Elias decides to follow the advice of his horoscope and treat others with kindness. With coffee day 1. Hot chocolate day 2. Then an apple turnover/ coffee shop invite day 3, Elias apologizes to Ty. It also doesn’t hurt that Elias notices how hot Ty is. While at the coffee shop, Ty mentions that he is moving and Elias jumps at the chance to help him move.
The move set their relationship in motion and from then on they are inseparable. We follow them as they go about their day to day. Both men are satisfied with their jobs and have to decide if they are going to take a chance with potential career changes and all that entails.
Elias and Ty are completely different with Ty’s outgoing and bubbly demeanor. They were a good fit when Elias wasn't making assumptions or letting judgmental viewpoints get in the way. They had an easily earned HEA with low conflict. Thankfully they had some chemistry. There was one scene that had me perking up a bit. The first kiss. Their first kiss had some heat. It was that I’m-saying-goodnight-without-kissing-and-came-back-because-I-couldn’t-leave-without-it kind of kiss. You know that one... right by the door and all passionate and grabby. There were other sexy times but they didn’t pull me out of the funk the rest of the story put me in.
We are treated to pages and pages of minutiae. It was as if every thought or observation they made in a day ended up on page. The circling of thoughts was downright frustrating. So much time was spent flip flopping points back and forth in their own heads.
Brutal.
I wish I could have made this work but we just didn’t click. Not recommended for those that want a little meat on their story's bones.
Copy provided for honest review.
Sorry, I dozed off there for a minute... or
This was one of those reads that doesn't necessarily drag but nothing really happens. I didn't hate it. But I didn't like it either. I need something to hold my attention. Anything. This read was predictable and apparently an ode to regular daily events/thoughts with an abundance of detail.
Aloof Elias meets city worker (aka garbage man)Ty while walking to work one day. Ty gets on to Elias for putting trash into the wrong recycling bin and Elias is kinda an ass in response. After this encounter, Elias decides to follow the advice of his horoscope and treat others with kindness. With coffee day 1. Hot chocolate day 2. Then an apple turnover/ coffee shop invite day 3, Elias apologizes to Ty. It also doesn’t hurt that Elias notices how hot Ty is. While at the coffee shop, Ty mentions that he is moving and Elias jumps at the chance to help him move.
The move set their relationship in motion and from then on they are inseparable. We follow them as they go about their day to day. Both men are satisfied with their jobs and have to decide if they are going to take a chance with potential career changes and all that entails.
Elias and Ty are completely different with Ty’s outgoing and bubbly demeanor. They were a good fit when Elias wasn't making assumptions or letting judgmental viewpoints get in the way. They had an easily earned HEA with low conflict. Thankfully they had some chemistry. There was one scene that had me perking up a bit. The first kiss. Their first kiss had some heat. It was that I’m-saying-goodnight-without-kissing-and-came-back-because-I-couldn’t-leave-without-it kind of kiss. You know that one... right by the door and all passionate and grabby. There were other sexy times but they didn’t pull me out of the funk the rest of the story put me in.
We are treated to pages and pages of minutiae. It was as if every thought or observation they made in a day ended up on page. The circling of thoughts was downright frustrating. So much time was spent flip flopping points back and forth in their own heads.
Brutal.
I wish I could have made this work but we just didn’t click. Not recommended for those that want a little meat on their story's bones.
Copy provided for honest review.
May 2, 2020
This was a low angst, reasonably steamy and quite sweet romance with a cute little sub-plot element about star signs.
It was perhaps a bit too much instalove-y for me, but I really liked both characters and how they were very different but just right for each other.
I also liked seeing Elias become less uptight as he fell in love with Ty but I think there was a lack of any real tension to make the relationship development feel earned.
A minor argument towards the end of the book is all resolved super fast and off they go onto a happy ending.
Still, if you're after an easy read, it fits that perfectly.
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review.
It was perhaps a bit too much instalove-y for me, but I really liked both characters and how they were very different but just right for each other.
I also liked seeing Elias become less uptight as he fell in love with Ty but I think there was a lack of any real tension to make the relationship development feel earned.
A minor argument towards the end of the book is all resolved super fast and off they go onto a happy ending.
Still, if you're after an easy read, it fits that perfectly.
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review.
December 30, 2024
Edited to add - I reread this in 2024 under the title Elias (previous title Picture Winter) and I had no recollection of reading it before.
Another insta-love story. I seem to be flush with them lately. This one wasn't bad, but it wasn't particularly great either. I'm not going to remember it a few days from now, but it is a good palette cleanser when you need a soft, easy, love story.
The MCs are supposed to be in their late 20s and early 30s, but they read more like NAs, specifically with regards to their insecurities in a relationship.
I did really enjoy their meet-cute and how Eli worked to win Ty over. As they get to know each other, I warmed up more to them and I started to root for them as a couple.
It is a sweet book, no real angst, no drama, and no conflict. Well, I mean, this is a romance so it does follow the formula of having a conflict...but this one lasts about 2 seconds and lacks any real emotional upset on the part of the reader.
I will say that Ty is genuine and easy to read. He is the type of character that I could get behind in the long run. Eli, the older MC, was a little harder for me to warm up to. He was sad and unfulfilled. But I got there.
Ty is exactly what Eli needs right when he needs it. I am not sure what Ty gets out of it, but they both end up happy in the end. And, I guess, that is all that matters. :)
Another insta-love story. I seem to be flush with them lately. This one wasn't bad, but it wasn't particularly great either. I'm not going to remember it a few days from now, but it is a good palette cleanser when you need a soft, easy, love story.
The MCs are supposed to be in their late 20s and early 30s, but they read more like NAs, specifically with regards to their insecurities in a relationship.
I did really enjoy their meet-cute and how Eli worked to win Ty over. As they get to know each other, I warmed up more to them and I started to root for them as a couple.
It is a sweet book, no real angst, no drama, and no conflict. Well, I mean, this is a romance so it does follow the formula of having a conflict...but this one lasts about 2 seconds and lacks any real emotional upset on the part of the reader.
I will say that Ty is genuine and easy to read. He is the type of character that I could get behind in the long run. Eli, the older MC, was a little harder for me to warm up to. He was sad and unfulfilled. But I got there.
Ty is exactly what Eli needs right when he needs it. I am not sure what Ty gets out of it, but they both end up happy in the end. And, I guess, that is all that matters. :)
May 30, 2020
Una novelista sencilla y romántica.
October 25, 2017
This is a short, sweet and low angst read, perfect for an afternoon chill. The interesting fact I found is that how Ty who works as a community garbage collector can afford to buy a decent house, though it was away from town. No wonder Ty is proud of his job.
Elias met Ty when he was rushing to work on a cold winter morning and came across this garbage collector who reprimand him where to place the trash correctly. I thought their meeting and subsequent interaction were rather amusing with Elias trying to win Ty over after his bad behavior the first time.
I enjoy the inclusion of the Ty's big family and overall Elias and Ty's whirlwind romance was a delightful read.
Elias met Ty when he was rushing to work on a cold winter morning and came across this garbage collector who reprimand him where to place the trash correctly. I thought their meeting and subsequent interaction were rather amusing with Elias trying to win Ty over after his bad behavior the first time.
I enjoy the inclusion of the Ty's big family and overall Elias and Ty's whirlwind romance was a delightful read.
May 14, 2020
Elias Hood is ambitious, driven to achieve, and working toward his promotion to VP of his management company every moment of the day. On a bitter cold winter day, he gets off on the wrong foot with Ty Green, the adorable sanitation worker who explains recycling to him as if he were a child. Does he care if his coworker later berates him and cites his Capricorn horoscope telling him to “do good”? Well, for some reason, he does. So, he decides to apologize—by bringing coffee to the cute sanitation worker. It doesn’t put a smile on the man’s face, though. And it’s not until the next day, when he brings hot chocolate, that his efforts are rewarded, and this meet-cute gets off the ground. And it’s a good example for introducing the fact that Amy Aislin puts real people in her books—real people with diverse personalities. I’ve only read a few, but each time, I’m captured at the beginning of the story and find myself cheering both main characters along their road—sometimes bumpy—to happiness.
Their initial spark of annoyance grows to a spark of attraction, and the two decide to date, to get to know each other. Their chemistry sparks and grows, and beyond that, so does their pleasure in each other’s company, their discovery of similar likes and dislikes, including the fact both are Capricorns, and their desire to see each other achieve life goals. Ty has a big family—loving, supportive, and loud. But Elias is alone in the world, his adoptive parents deceased. Elias and Ty’s backgrounds have influenced their life choices, including career goals, and at times it seems the men may be too different, but the author cleverly weaves the traits of a Capricorn into each man’s personality, and the result is that honesty, above all else, will win the day.
This is a sweet romance that served as a mood elevator for me. I found it difficult to put this down, and I highly recommend it to those looking for something sweet, sexy, and solid.
NOTE: This book was provided by the author via Gay Romance Reviews Tours for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Their initial spark of annoyance grows to a spark of attraction, and the two decide to date, to get to know each other. Their chemistry sparks and grows, and beyond that, so does their pleasure in each other’s company, their discovery of similar likes and dislikes, including the fact both are Capricorns, and their desire to see each other achieve life goals. Ty has a big family—loving, supportive, and loud. But Elias is alone in the world, his adoptive parents deceased. Elias and Ty’s backgrounds have influenced their life choices, including career goals, and at times it seems the men may be too different, but the author cleverly weaves the traits of a Capricorn into each man’s personality, and the result is that honesty, above all else, will win the day.
This is a sweet romance that served as a mood elevator for me. I found it difficult to put this down, and I highly recommend it to those looking for something sweet, sexy, and solid.
NOTE: This book was provided by the author via Gay Romance Reviews Tours for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
September 9, 2021
3.5 Rounded Up
A few days ago, I needed a book to read to pass the time during a longish train ride, and did not have much time to be picky so that I could ensure it downloaded before we went underground. I was interested enough by the premise and decided to take the plunge. Besides, it was on Kindle Unlimited so it wasn’t a hardship. And I’m not disappointed that I picked this one in that somewhat spur of the moment situation.
I really enjoyed Elias and Ty both individually and together. They were both complex personalities who brought out the best in the other. And, even though the romance happened pretty fast, I think it worked for them. And I enjoyed going along for the ride. There’s a conflict near the end that’s resolved relatively quickly. I appreciated that it was both a realistic problem and something that had built upon another instance in the romance (so it didn’t feel contrived).
The star signs were a fun sub plot and I enjoyed the variety in the supporting cast. Particularly Ty’s siblings. My only complaint is the length. I wish we had more time with them.
I was thoroughly entertained by the authors descriptions, and pleasantly surprised that one of our MC’s was a POC. That’s always a pleasant surprise for me.
A few days ago, I needed a book to read to pass the time during a longish train ride, and did not have much time to be picky so that I could ensure it downloaded before we went underground. I was interested enough by the premise and decided to take the plunge. Besides, it was on Kindle Unlimited so it wasn’t a hardship. And I’m not disappointed that I picked this one in that somewhat spur of the moment situation.
I really enjoyed Elias and Ty both individually and together. They were both complex personalities who brought out the best in the other. And, even though the romance happened pretty fast, I think it worked for them. And I enjoyed going along for the ride. There’s a conflict near the end that’s resolved relatively quickly. I appreciated that it was both a realistic problem and something that had built upon another instance in the romance (so it didn’t feel contrived).
The star signs were a fun sub plot and I enjoyed the variety in the supporting cast. Particularly Ty’s siblings. My only complaint is the length. I wish we had more time with them.
I was thoroughly entertained by the authors descriptions, and pleasantly surprised that one of our MC’s was a POC. That’s always a pleasant surprise for me.
December 13, 2017
*A copy of this book was provided for free by the author in exchange for an honest review.*
Elias is good at what he does and is on the way to becoming VP in the company. However, he does not have much in the way of a life. He does not have any close family or friends. He does have a work friend who always asks him about his horoscope. Though he says he only checks his horoscope since she asks him about it, he does believe it to some extent. On the same morning that his horoscope tells him to “be nice to others,” he gets into a verbal disagreement with a sanitation worker who calls him out for putting a newspaper into the trash instead of the recycling bin. Though he scoffs at the horoscope, the next day he brings the sanitation worker, Ty, a coffee. After a few times meeting on the street outside his office, Ty and Elias go out to get to know each other better. Though they find out they have many differences, somehow, they also work together.
I have always been a fan of stories with curmudgeon-y characters, but somehow this story was not a hit with me. I loved Ty and his family, though his mother was slightly overbearing. The story seemed to drag on for too long, and I found myself putting it down many times to read something else. I saw the BIG MISUNDERSTANDING coming from a long ways away, and hated when it happened. I’m just glad that it did not persist for very long, and that these two grown men actually talked it out.
Elias is good at what he does and is on the way to becoming VP in the company. However, he does not have much in the way of a life. He does not have any close family or friends. He does have a work friend who always asks him about his horoscope. Though he says he only checks his horoscope since she asks him about it, he does believe it to some extent. On the same morning that his horoscope tells him to “be nice to others,” he gets into a verbal disagreement with a sanitation worker who calls him out for putting a newspaper into the trash instead of the recycling bin. Though he scoffs at the horoscope, the next day he brings the sanitation worker, Ty, a coffee. After a few times meeting on the street outside his office, Ty and Elias go out to get to know each other better. Though they find out they have many differences, somehow, they also work together.
I have always been a fan of stories with curmudgeon-y characters, but somehow this story was not a hit with me. I loved Ty and his family, though his mother was slightly overbearing. The story seemed to drag on for too long, and I found myself putting it down many times to read something else. I saw the BIG MISUNDERSTANDING coming from a long ways away, and hated when it happened. I’m just glad that it did not persist for very long, and that these two grown men actually talked it out.
December 8, 2017
*A copy of this book was provided for free by the author in exchange for an honest review.*
This is a very sweet read. Thoroughly enjoyable but with a hint of angst. I liked the balance. Both main characters were good decent guys, they fall hard fast but it doesn't feel rushed. I enjoyed how falling in love inspired their professional reckonings and make changes they put off. I'm glad the angst is resolved fairly quickly, and neither guy is let off the hook for their part. I really really liked all the interaction with Ty's family. This was just a great nice read, that made me smile.
This is a very sweet read. Thoroughly enjoyable but with a hint of angst. I liked the balance. Both main characters were good decent guys, they fall hard fast but it doesn't feel rushed. I enjoyed how falling in love inspired their professional reckonings and make changes they put off. I'm glad the angst is resolved fairly quickly, and neither guy is let off the hook for their part. I really really liked all the interaction with Ty's family. This was just a great nice read, that made me smile.
October 7, 2017
*ARC provided by the author*
Oh man! I really enjoyed this one.
Not only because the characters were lovely (although that's *the* huge plus) or because I was sucked right in due to the charming nature of the development of their relationship (another quite sizeable advantage). It was just... So well done, in general.
It sort of reads like a rom-com, but with a slightly more accentuated focus on the romance part. Plus, the extra of the sexytimes (which, in the mood I am lately, I could have gone with, but I didn't find it as annoying as it could have been, so yay, another plus right here!)
Even though the relationship between Eli and Ty develops at an unorthodox pace, I still wasn't bothered by it, because it was written in a way that made sense, that felt natural and I was really "feeling" it. Plus, how can you complain when the chemistry between the characters was so great? They were amazing together, and I really enjoyed seeing them find their way around their relationship.
As much as I appreciated the lovely bubble that seemed to wrap these two, I also welcomed the pinch of conflict that came to give realism to the situation. That isn't to say that the characters and their stories hadn't felt real or relatable prior to that point, I really do think that the author did a great job with how the story was fleshed out as a whole. The conflict bit was just another of the perks to the building of an already pretty great story. I just wished it had had a more accentuated presence: the situation was brewing slowly throughout the story without never really having a huge impact, and when it finally "blew off", it was quite late in the story so it didn't have much time to properly sit and have a well-developed treatment, so it got solved pretty quick. But it was nothing major: if anything, it caused that the tension of the story was rather minimal, and I was definitely in the mood for that!
I mentioned the characters earlier in the review, and let me just wrap that up by saying that not only I found Eli and Ty completely adorable and relatable (on different levels for each character, but still); I was also charmed off my socks by Ty's family- even his out-of-control, controlling mom! xD the family dynamics (and the way Eli blended into that mix) was thoroughly enjoyable.
All in all, I loved reading this, and getting to know these characters- with something so short, that is a pretty rare thing for me, to get involved so quickly. I'm glad it happened, because this story had lots of things for me to like, and I'm happy it all worked so good!
Oh man! I really enjoyed this one.
Not only because the characters were lovely (although that's *the* huge plus) or because I was sucked right in due to the charming nature of the development of their relationship (another quite sizeable advantage). It was just... So well done, in general.
It sort of reads like a rom-com, but with a slightly more accentuated focus on the romance part. Plus, the extra of the sexytimes (which, in the mood I am lately, I could have gone with, but I didn't find it as annoying as it could have been, so yay, another plus right here!)
Even though the relationship between Eli and Ty develops at an unorthodox pace, I still wasn't bothered by it, because it was written in a way that made sense, that felt natural and I was really "feeling" it. Plus, how can you complain when the chemistry between the characters was so great? They were amazing together, and I really enjoyed seeing them find their way around their relationship.
As much as I appreciated the lovely bubble that seemed to wrap these two, I also welcomed the pinch of conflict that came to give realism to the situation. That isn't to say that the characters and their stories hadn't felt real or relatable prior to that point, I really do think that the author did a great job with how the story was fleshed out as a whole. The conflict bit was just another of the perks to the building of an already pretty great story. I just wished it had had a more accentuated presence: the situation was brewing slowly throughout the story without never really having a huge impact, and when it finally "blew off", it was quite late in the story so it didn't have much time to properly sit and have a well-developed treatment, so it got solved pretty quick. But it was nothing major: if anything, it caused that the tension of the story was rather minimal, and I was definitely in the mood for that!
I mentioned the characters earlier in the review, and let me just wrap that up by saying that not only I found Eli and Ty completely adorable and relatable (on different levels for each character, but still); I was also charmed off my socks by Ty's family- even his out-of-control, controlling mom! xD the family dynamics (and the way Eli blended into that mix) was thoroughly enjoyable.
All in all, I loved reading this, and getting to know these characters- with something so short, that is a pretty rare thing for me, to get involved so quickly. I'm glad it happened, because this story had lots of things for me to like, and I'm happy it all worked so good!
December 22, 2017
I received Picture Winter through the Don’t Buy My Love program on Goodreads. This story is told in third person through the eyes of Elias Hood and Ty Green.
April 30, 2020
[I received a copy for an honest review]
Elias is a contemporary MM romance by Amy Aislin. Previously published with the title Picture Winter, the story is the same just with a pretty new cover and title.
"Pfft. Be nice to others? What kind of horoscope was that? He could get a better reading from a fortune cookie."
Elias Hood has resting b*tch face and his outer personality is closed off, and he comes off not so friendly. When his horoscope tells him to be a little nicer it leads him to befriend a city work who turns out to be the exact man he needs in his life. Elias and Ty become friends and that quickly turns to more in this low angst romance between two Capricorns.
This was a really sweet romance. Fast paced and a bit insta lovey but I thoroughly enjoyed it. While I am not a Capricorn I could relate to Elias' personality. He was very much not a people person and used his actions instead of his words to show he cared. Ty while having some of the same personality traits was different in a lot of ways. He wore his heart on his sleeve and was such a cinnamon roll you couldn't help but adore him. He was the perfect counterpart to break to Elias' walls. I loved their friendship and let's be real the sex scenes were fantastic .
"He wanted to keep Ty, forever id Ty would have him."
I just love Amy Aislin's writing and the characters she creates. Elias is another great one and if you want a light low drama romance with a happy ending this book is for you.
Elias is a contemporary MM romance by Amy Aislin. Previously published with the title Picture Winter, the story is the same just with a pretty new cover and title.
"Pfft. Be nice to others? What kind of horoscope was that? He could get a better reading from a fortune cookie."
Elias Hood has resting b*tch face and his outer personality is closed off, and he comes off not so friendly. When his horoscope tells him to be a little nicer it leads him to befriend a city work who turns out to be the exact man he needs in his life. Elias and Ty become friends and that quickly turns to more in this low angst romance between two Capricorns.
This was a really sweet romance. Fast paced and a bit insta lovey but I thoroughly enjoyed it. While I am not a Capricorn I could relate to Elias' personality. He was very much not a people person and used his actions instead of his words to show he cared. Ty while having some of the same personality traits was different in a lot of ways. He wore his heart on his sleeve and was such a cinnamon roll you couldn't help but adore him. He was the perfect counterpart to break to Elias' walls. I loved their friendship and let's be real the sex scenes were fantastic .
"He wanted to keep Ty, forever id Ty would have him."
I just love Amy Aislin's writing and the characters she creates. Elias is another great one and if you want a light low drama romance with a happy ending this book is for you.
May 11, 2020
“Elias” is my first book by Amy Aislin and I will be looking for more to read. Ty and Elias were perfect for one another and the insta-love worked for them. Even though the book was on the shorter side, their characters were flushed out and the story was well written and not rushed. I loved getting to see Elias work through things with his job and getting to see Ty’s very crazy family. “Elias” is a sweet story with just a smidge of angst but overall a cute, feel good story that will take your mind off of the crazy world for a bit. I would totally recommend this story to others looking for a feel good story or to fans of insta-love.
I give this story 4 stars.
I received an arc from the author for an honest and unbiased review.
I give this story 4 stars.
I received an arc from the author for an honest and unbiased review.
October 13, 2017
If you’re in the mood for a low-angst, sweet romance with a nice dash of heat, you’ll find that here in Picture Winter. While not quite an insta-love story, this book does have the two main characters become quite enamored with each other quickly but then allows their relationship to progress, if at a faster pace—though again, not quite at the insta-love state.
The relationship between Elias and Ty is one they easily fall into, and it’s immediately comfortable with a sweet dose of passion…you know, the kind of pairing that everyone wishes they could find for themselves, but is rare and coveted (a big reason I love to read stories like this). What little friction there is in the story stems from both Elias and Ty’s jobs and the perceptions of those jobs in each of their points of view.
I loved Ty’s family, though I have to say if his mother was my mother I would have blown a gasket with her “it has to be the way I tell you” attitude. All of them were wonderful though when it came to accepting both Ty and Elias—I really liked how they just acted like Elias was a member of the family from the moment they meet him.
This story makes for a great pick-me-up read, and for me was a very solid 4-star book. It’s one I’d recommend to any fan of M/M romance, though it definitely is for readers 18+ for adult language and some wonderfully sexy and passionate sexual content.
The relationship between Elias and Ty is one they easily fall into, and it’s immediately comfortable with a sweet dose of passion…you know, the kind of pairing that everyone wishes they could find for themselves, but is rare and coveted (a big reason I love to read stories like this). What little friction there is in the story stems from both Elias and Ty’s jobs and the perceptions of those jobs in each of their points of view.
I loved Ty’s family, though I have to say if his mother was my mother I would have blown a gasket with her “it has to be the way I tell you” attitude. All of them were wonderful though when it came to accepting both Ty and Elias—I really liked how they just acted like Elias was a member of the family from the moment they meet him.
This story makes for a great pick-me-up read, and for me was a very solid 4-star book. It’s one I’d recommend to any fan of M/M romance, though it definitely is for readers 18+ for adult language and some wonderfully sexy and passionate sexual content.
May 14, 2020
Elias from Amy Aislin has simply the best meetcute scene I have ever read!
We begin with the very serious Elias, who humours a work colleague by reading the daily horoscope. Today’s astrology says to “be nice”, which is ridiculous – Elias is always nice… isn’t he? Until he realises he’s grumpy to the city worker who schools him in recycling etiquette.
Elias feels bad for snapping and goes back the next day with coffee as a peace offering. The adorable city worker doesn’t appear to be impressed, but Elias won’t stop until he’s made amends – after all, his horoscope said to be nice.
Ty is passionate about recycling and preserving natural resources, and just has to say something when he sees the office worker putting the paper in the wrong bin. He becomes amused though when the serious man in a suit continues to attempt to atone for his error – after all, he’s really hot and is bringing him treats!
When Elias’ horoscope dares him to try something new, he gets to know Ty and the sizzle begins.
The relationship that builds in this book is sweet, relatable and dotted with humour. Ty and Elias bring the heat and passion as a balanced couple making the novel effortless to follow and most enjoyable to read.
If you love a story that makes you glow from the characters’ discovery of following their hearts and passion, Eliasby Amy Aislin will make you gasp, swoon and smile.
We begin with the very serious Elias, who humours a work colleague by reading the daily horoscope. Today’s astrology says to “be nice”, which is ridiculous – Elias is always nice… isn’t he? Until he realises he’s grumpy to the city worker who schools him in recycling etiquette.
Elias feels bad for snapping and goes back the next day with coffee as a peace offering. The adorable city worker doesn’t appear to be impressed, but Elias won’t stop until he’s made amends – after all, his horoscope said to be nice.
Ty is passionate about recycling and preserving natural resources, and just has to say something when he sees the office worker putting the paper in the wrong bin. He becomes amused though when the serious man in a suit continues to attempt to atone for his error – after all, he’s really hot and is bringing him treats!
When Elias’ horoscope dares him to try something new, he gets to know Ty and the sizzle begins.
The relationship that builds in this book is sweet, relatable and dotted with humour. Ty and Elias bring the heat and passion as a balanced couple making the novel effortless to follow and most enjoyable to read.
If you love a story that makes you glow from the characters’ discovery of following their hearts and passion, Eliasby Amy Aislin will make you gasp, swoon and smile.
April 21, 2023
This was a lovely read and just what I needed at that moment.
Retitling this book was an excellent idea because it really is all about Elias. His escape from loneliness and a soul sucking job.
I love a grumpy, arsehole of a character where the crusty outside is really hiding a soft heart scared of, in this case, desertion. If you don't get close to people they can't break your heart when they leave. Poor Elias, my heart ached for him.
The romance was adorable, the conversations natural and, despite the speed it moved, the relationship felt natural.
Highly recommended to make you feel warm and fuzzy.
My only complaint is that it ended too abruptly. I'd have liked an epilogue.
Retitling this book was an excellent idea because it really is all about Elias. His escape from loneliness and a soul sucking job.
I love a grumpy, arsehole of a character where the crusty outside is really hiding a soft heart scared of, in this case, desertion. If you don't get close to people they can't break your heart when they leave. Poor Elias, my heart ached for him.
The romance was adorable, the conversations natural and, despite the speed it moved, the relationship felt natural.
Highly recommended to make you feel warm and fuzzy.
My only complaint is that it ended too abruptly. I'd have liked an epilogue.
October 3, 2020
This story was perfect for me! I really connected to the mcs, rather relatable and so entertaining. Short, adorable romance with a lot of character and relationship development. I enjoyed every moment of this book so much.
Elias was my favorite his serious, a bit grumpy and set in his ways yet he has a sweet side too which was so adorable. I really felt with him on the resting bitch face. His gone through a lot in his life and is not keen on risks, although the horoscopes start giving him a nudge and meeting Ty.
Ty is lovely and very bubbly, entertaining and just a lot of fun from the start. The Capricorn aspect, seeing the similarities between them but also how different in general they compliment one another perfectly.
I loved the photography, snowman, coffee and hot chocolate meetings. The first few scenes were hilarious and so cute. I adored Tys family too and so well explored, got to learn about them and their quirks. The cake at Tys birthday scene made me smile, coloring with the kids and the market. Moving into Tys new place, everything was just very entertaining and full of comfort vibes.
The job aspect and how resolved, each supporting one another even if might they not understand at first. I loved how that side was explored and resolved in the end, as both go for what they want. Also Tys work involving waste management and the misunderstanding at the start was done so well, Elias making presumptions and Ty shutting him down was perfect.
Overall i had a lot of fun with these two, the horoscopes and their beautiful romance with a great happy ending. Definitely recommend and especially perfect for the Winter season! X
Elias was my favorite his serious, a bit grumpy and set in his ways yet he has a sweet side too which was so adorable. I really felt with him on the resting bitch face. His gone through a lot in his life and is not keen on risks, although the horoscopes start giving him a nudge and meeting Ty.
Ty is lovely and very bubbly, entertaining and just a lot of fun from the start. The Capricorn aspect, seeing the similarities between them but also how different in general they compliment one another perfectly.
I loved the photography, snowman, coffee and hot chocolate meetings. The first few scenes were hilarious and so cute. I adored Tys family too and so well explored, got to learn about them and their quirks. The cake at Tys birthday scene made me smile, coloring with the kids and the market. Moving into Tys new place, everything was just very entertaining and full of comfort vibes.
The job aspect and how resolved, each supporting one another even if might they not understand at first. I loved how that side was explored and resolved in the end, as both go for what they want. Also Tys work involving waste management and the misunderstanding at the start was done so well, Elias making presumptions and Ty shutting him down was perfect.
Overall i had a lot of fun with these two, the horoscopes and their beautiful romance with a great happy ending. Definitely recommend and especially perfect for the Winter season! X
May 21, 2025
4.5/5 ⭐
Elias is a standalone romance by Amy Aislin. Here's what you can expect from Elias and Ty:
❄️ MM contemporary romance
❄️ Third person dual point of view
❄️ Guaranteed happily ever after
❄️ Strangers to lovers
❄️ Swoony and spicy
❄️ Vers main characters
Elias is definitely a comfort read for me! Elias and Ty are just so cute, and phew, the spice in this book is great - there's such an intense chemistry between the two main characters. Although their relationship develops fast, I love the ups and downs we experience with them and the importance they place on communication. Elias has great character development throughout the book, and I do think Ty brought out the best in him. I also enjoyed the Toronto/Guelph setting, and how we got to see so many of their little moments (including moving day, Valentine's Day, and birthday parties). This is a shorter read at under 200 pages, so it would be the perfect lighter romance to help round out your TBR or even be introduced to Amy's work. This book will continue to be a go-to for me, and it's one I won't hesitate to revisit in the future.
Elias is a standalone romance by Amy Aislin. Here's what you can expect from Elias and Ty:
❄️ MM contemporary romance
❄️ Third person dual point of view
❄️ Guaranteed happily ever after
❄️ Strangers to lovers
❄️ Swoony and spicy
❄️ Vers main characters
Elias is definitely a comfort read for me! Elias and Ty are just so cute, and phew, the spice in this book is great - there's such an intense chemistry between the two main characters. Although their relationship develops fast, I love the ups and downs we experience with them and the importance they place on communication. Elias has great character development throughout the book, and I do think Ty brought out the best in him. I also enjoyed the Toronto/Guelph setting, and how we got to see so many of their little moments (including moving day, Valentine's Day, and birthday parties). This is a shorter read at under 200 pages, so it would be the perfect lighter romance to help round out your TBR or even be introduced to Amy's work. This book will continue to be a go-to for me, and it's one I won't hesitate to revisit in the future.
May 29, 2020
Elias by Amy Aislin is a re release title. The name has changed, since I did not read this story the first time, I have no idea if the storyline has changed dramatically or not. I felt this book was okay. Nothing to over the top and the characters are very likeable. I did not feel the emotional pull to these two men. That is where this book becomes just okay to me. They are pretty lukewarm for me.
Elias has a wicked sense of sarcasm. Lives in walking distance to his work. Responsible person he is also kind and thoughtful.
I liked the astrology stuff sprinkled into this story.
Ty ends up being confused by Elias. Suddenly the man keeps getting coffee and hot chocolate from a guy he barely knows. He is a city garbage man. Wonders what a guy like Elias sees in him.
Overall, pretty good story. It just needs a little more something, it is an okay read and I am glad I got to meet Elias he is a character worth knowing.
Four twinkling stars
Elias has a wicked sense of sarcasm. Lives in walking distance to his work. Responsible person he is also kind and thoughtful.
I liked the astrology stuff sprinkled into this story.
Ty ends up being confused by Elias. Suddenly the man keeps getting coffee and hot chocolate from a guy he barely knows. He is a city garbage man. Wonders what a guy like Elias sees in him.
Overall, pretty good story. It just needs a little more something, it is an okay read and I am glad I got to meet Elias he is a character worth knowing.
Four twinkling stars
December 22, 2017
This book was provided free in return for an honest review via Goodreads' Don't Buy My Love program.
This book was recommended to me by a friend, but I liked the blurb enough to give it a chance. The author's style is very good, dialogue fairly realistic, and I even enjoyed the use of the horoscope's to bring Elias and Ty together. Humor was more often provided by the side characters than the main ones, however.
What bugged me was Elias' character. Even though he was written as the "dominant" in bed, he was characterized as introverted outside the bedroom. The contrast was gaping enough that I never felt connected to the character. It didn't strike me a realistic character trait. Ty's characterization, on the other hand, was strong-willed and extroverted, whether he was a top or bottom didn't matter. I could have done without the constant tears though.
What I liked best was Ty's family of crazy. I totally wanted to join them in the basement eating chocolate cake.
I've reached a point in my reading where contemporary fiction needs to really Wow me to get better than a 3-star rating; unfortunately, this did not.
This book was recommended to me by a friend, but I liked the blurb enough to give it a chance. The author's style is very good, dialogue fairly realistic, and I even enjoyed the use of the horoscope's to bring Elias and Ty together. Humor was more often provided by the side characters than the main ones, however.
What bugged me was Elias' character. Even though he was written as the "dominant" in bed, he was characterized as introverted outside the bedroom. The contrast was gaping enough that I never felt connected to the character. It didn't strike me a realistic character trait. Ty's characterization, on the other hand, was strong-willed and extroverted, whether he was a top or bottom didn't matter. I could have done without the constant tears though.
What I liked best was Ty's family of crazy. I totally wanted to join them in the basement eating chocolate cake.
I've reached a point in my reading where contemporary fiction needs to really Wow me to get better than a 3-star rating; unfortunately, this did not.
May 5, 2020
This is my second read for this book.
Elias is a heartwarming story during this difficult time (we're still in the historical covid pandemic).
Once I read this, I was just kept going on. Ty is lovable character, and I also loved his family dynamic.
I didn't change my pinion about Elias though.
I'm still not liking him about his opinion for Ty's job.
In the end, it's Ty's job that saved him. So...
Overall, I also didn't change my mind about this book. First published as Picture Winter 2017.
Read my review here review
May 27, 2020
Maintenant, il s'appelle Elias et il était super mignon. Plein de gentillesse et de bons sentiments. Un livre qui met du baume au cœur.
-------------------Avis détaillé------------
Ça doit être mon 6 ou 7ème livre de cette auteure et j’aime toujours ce qu’elle fait. Ses livres ont toujours cette particularité d’avoir des personnage sympas, plein de gentillesse, altruistes et sans prise de tête et ça fait beaucoup de bien. Je n’ai jamais aimé les livres avec des personnages antipathiques ou juste méchants et en général je trouve mon bonheur chez Amy.
Ce livre ne déroge pas à la règle, Ty et Elias se rencontrent parce que Ty n’a pas jeté son gobelet dans le bonne poubelle ! Et se retrouve poursuivi par Ty qui essaie de lui expliquer pourquoi c’est important de trier. Ty n’a pas été super gentil ni attentif et une fois l’incident passé, il s’est senti coupable et a voulu faire amende honorable et a commencé à offrir à Ty chaque matin un chocolat pour se faire pardonner. De là, naît une attirance entre les deux qui les mène à vivre une très belle histoire d’amour tout en douceur et en sincérité.
J’avoue que je n’ai pas grand chose à ajouter car le livre est plutôt une tranche de vie où on vit avec les personnages éclosion de leur histoire, comment ils s’installent dans la vie l’un de l’autre et comment naît leur amour. C’est simple mais aussi beau et réconfortant à voir.
J’ai passé un super moment avec ce livre, mais je pense que je n’en garderai pas un souvenir impérissable, même si j’ai adoré. C’est un livre qui nous fait passer un bon moment, qui met du baume au cœur mais qui n’est cependant pas inoubliable.
-------------------Avis détaillé------------
Ça doit être mon 6 ou 7ème livre de cette auteure et j’aime toujours ce qu’elle fait. Ses livres ont toujours cette particularité d’avoir des personnage sympas, plein de gentillesse, altruistes et sans prise de tête et ça fait beaucoup de bien. Je n’ai jamais aimé les livres avec des personnages antipathiques ou juste méchants et en général je trouve mon bonheur chez Amy.
Ce livre ne déroge pas à la règle, Ty et Elias se rencontrent parce que Ty n’a pas jeté son gobelet dans le bonne poubelle ! Et se retrouve poursuivi par Ty qui essaie de lui expliquer pourquoi c’est important de trier. Ty n’a pas été super gentil ni attentif et une fois l’incident passé, il s’est senti coupable et a voulu faire amende honorable et a commencé à offrir à Ty chaque matin un chocolat pour se faire pardonner. De là, naît une attirance entre les deux qui les mène à vivre une très belle histoire d’amour tout en douceur et en sincérité.
J’avoue que je n’ai pas grand chose à ajouter car le livre est plutôt une tranche de vie où on vit avec les personnages éclosion de leur histoire, comment ils s’installent dans la vie l’un de l’autre et comment naît leur amour. C’est simple mais aussi beau et réconfortant à voir.
J’ai passé un super moment avec ce livre, mais je pense que je n’en garderai pas un souvenir impérissable, même si j’ai adoré. C’est un livre qui nous fait passer un bon moment, qui met du baume au cœur mais qui n’est cependant pas inoubliable.
May 12, 2020
4.5 stars... A great start, I'll give Elias something as he is persistent. I could imagine Ty 26 yrs was grinning at Elias on the streets..lol.
Elias follows the horoscope daily, this day it's said to be nice. Trying to apologise to a city worker Elias tried.. A few funny scenes included with age gap story. I wonder if walls could combust with what happens on them, a smoking hot scenes of them both. I loved Ty's mum in this she's like a drill Sargent with her family. This was a story of angst of dating and relationships with the two. Communication or lack there off and dancing around each other so the speak but they get there. A great book to read I loved the ending of this. The author was a first time read for me with this book.
Elias follows the horoscope daily, this day it's said to be nice. Trying to apologise to a city worker Elias tried.. A few funny scenes included with age gap story. I wonder if walls could combust with what happens on them, a smoking hot scenes of them both. I loved Ty's mum in this she's like a drill Sargent with her family. This was a story of angst of dating and relationships with the two. Communication or lack there off and dancing around each other so the speak but they get there. A great book to read I loved the ending of this. The author was a first time read for me with this book.
September 19, 2017
With lightness and levity, author Amy Aislin creates an adorable love story worth reading. Despite Elias and Ty both being Capricorns, they jump head first into a relationship that could be perfect in every way ... if only they both get over their hang-ups. The chemistry between these two gorgeous men really sizzles, but it's a fantastically fluffy read, as well. A feel-good romance that will leave you smiling :)
October 19, 2017
Amy Aislin is a new to me author. You know the feeling when you read the book by new author to you. the giddy feeling? Excited but at the same time, kinda afraid the book won't fit your expectations?
That's what I felt when I started the book. The author did a really good job making 'the fast into a relationship' feels 'not too fast'. I liked Ty's family, especially his father!
And they way they accepted Elias as theirs, it was kinda adorable.
I loved how Ty loved his job and proud of it. Kinda pissed at Elias when he's 'not too proud' of Ty's job. But yeah, they're easy, they talked, they forgive easily, no drama, just a little friction. Though Ty made Elias had to worked it out to gain Ty's forgiveness.
And Ty's being so cute with the snowman! <3
I think this book matched my mood at the time, while recovering and bed-resting . Relaxing, and sweet, as my doctor suggested to 'not reading any hard book' or sad or angry or irritable. Elias and Ty made me happy. Thank you Amy! I think I'll check this author's other books in the near future.
*I voluntarily read the ARC for Lelyana's Book Blog review.*
That's what I felt when I started the book. The author did a really good job making 'the fast into a relationship' feels 'not too fast'. I liked Ty's family, especially his father!
And they way they accepted Elias as theirs, it was kinda adorable.
I loved how Ty loved his job and proud of it. Kinda pissed at Elias when he's 'not too proud' of Ty's job. But yeah, they're easy, they talked, they forgive easily, no drama, just a little friction. Though Ty made Elias had to worked it out to gain Ty's forgiveness.
And Ty's being so cute with the snowman! <3
I think this book matched my mood at the time, while recovering and bed-resting . Relaxing, and sweet, as my doctor suggested to 'not reading any hard book' or sad or angry or irritable. Elias and Ty made me happy. Thank you Amy! I think I'll check this author's other books in the near future.
*I voluntarily read the ARC for Lelyana's Book Blog review.*
May 13, 2020
Chocolate makes everything better
I have to begin by sharing that Eli gives the most thoughtful gifts. In fact they made me teary-eyed. “It’s how I see you.” Gah, the feels and the love tugged right at my heart. Ty and his laughter are infectious though. His smiles and his pure joy made me happy. Ty’s family while a bit overwhelming is just what Eli deserves in life. I loved how he and Ty brought out the best in each other and how Eli opened up and rediscovered his passion. Together they make a beautiful picture.
I have to begin by sharing that Eli gives the most thoughtful gifts. In fact they made me teary-eyed. “It’s how I see you.” Gah, the feels and the love tugged right at my heart. Ty and his laughter are infectious though. His smiles and his pure joy made me happy. Ty’s family while a bit overwhelming is just what Eli deserves in life. I loved how he and Ty brought out the best in each other and how Eli opened up and rediscovered his passion. Together they make a beautiful picture.
May 16, 2020
*4.5 stars*
"Elias" by Amy Aislin is a re-release of the novel published in 2017 as "Picture Winter". I admit it makes me very happy that this book is on the list of MM romance new releases once again, because I'm not sure if I would find it otherwise. The story presented in "Elias" is quite simple, but really interesting and can boast of several interesting motifs and a unique vibe that makes even the most popular threads in this novel different from others. Let's take a look at some examples: instant love which the main characters, Elias and Ty, are aware of and which they accept as the pace of their relationship; an accidental first meeting, after which Elias takes matters into his own hands; differences in lifestyle and social status, which aren't all that vital to our boys, because to Ty job satisfaction is much more important and he really has a lot to say on this topic. In short, in "Elias," the author seems to use some well known themes while putting emphasis on their less used aspects.
Reading "Elias" I quickly fell in love with the two main characters who, although different from each other in almost every respect, are both to some extent really sweet, innocent and in one way or another resemble two teddy bears that I would like to hug tightly. Although I suspect that one of these teddies would definitely try to break free, scratch me and say what he thinks about such treatment, while the other would wait for the hug to be over with displeasure or maybe indifference. To be honest, the fact that they are like that makes Elias and Ty unique, memorable and definitely lovable.
In addition to the characters themselves, I also like the way the dynamics of their relationship was presented in the novel. In my opinion, Elias and Ty don't seem to be like people who, to some extent, are opposites that complement each other in life. These two simply create something new, something special, motivate each other to act and make changes in life. Their relationship doesn't have a vibe of 'be an extrovert to me who is an introvert', 'be yin to my yang'. Their love seems to be based rather on the principle "you are what I've always needed in life and I've just realized it". What's more, I also like the fact that showing the crisis of Elias and Ty's relationship the author doesn't blame one of our boys for the whole situation, but shows that both sides contributed to the problem. I think it perfectly emphasizes the dynamics of their relationship and the fact that they both build it at the same time and in the same way.
To sum up, "Elias" is a really good novel which uses great motifs, have an interesting plot, fantastic characters and shows the relationship that inspires us and fills us with positive energy. What can I say, I really recommend you this novel.
______________
„Elias” autorstwa Amy Aislin jest reedycją powieści opublikowanej w 2017 roku jako „Picture Winter”. Przyznaję, że bardzo się cieszę, iż książka ta ponownie pojawiła się na liście MM romansowych nowości, ponieważ właśnie dzięki temu na nią trafiłam. Przedstawiona w „Elias” historia jest wprawdzie dosyć prosta, ale naprawdę interesująca i może pochwalić się kilkoma ciekawymi motywami oraz wyjątkowym klimatem, który sprawia, że nawet te najbardziej popularne wątki w tej powieści wydają się różnić do innych. Jako przykład możemy podać szybkie zakochanie, z którego główni bohaterowie, Elias i Ty, zdają sobie sprawę, a które akceptują jako tempo ich związku, przypadkowe pierwsze spotkanie, po którym to Elias bierze sprawy w swoje ręce, czy też różnice stylu życia oraz statusów społecznych, na które nasi chłopcy nie zwracają szczególnej uwagi, jako że dla Ty’a ważniejsze jest zadowolenie z wykonywanej pracy i to on tak naprawdę ma najwięcej do powiedzenia w tym temacie. Mówiąc krótko, w „Elias” autorka wydaje się wykorzystywać znane wątki kładąc nacisk na ich mniej szablonowe aspekty.
Czytając „Elias” bardzo szybko pokochałam dwójkę głównych bohaterów, którzy chociaż różnią się od siebie niemal pod każdym względem, są w pewnym stopniu naprawdę słodcy, niewinni i w taki lub inny sposób kojarzą mi się z pluszowymi misiami, które chciałabym mocno przytulić. Chociaż podejrzewam, że jeden z tych misiów na pewno próbowałby się wyrwać, podrapać i powiedziałby, co myśli o takim traktowaniu, podczas kiedy ten drugi z pełną niezadowolenia lub może obojętną miną po prostu czekałby aż będzie po wszystkim. Właśnie to, że są tacy, a nie inni czyni Eliasa i Ty’a wyjątkowymi, wartymi zapamiętania i łatwymi do pokochania.
Poza samymi bohaterami w powieści podoba mi się również dynamika ich relacji. Elias i Ty tak naprawdę nie sprawiają wrażenia osób, które będąc w pewnym stopniu swoimi przeciwieństwami dopełniają się życiowo. Ta dwójka po prostu tworzy coś nowego, coś wyjątkowego, motywuje się do działania i wprowadzania zmian w życiu. Ich związek pozbawiony jest klimatu „bądź ekstrawertykiem dla mnie introwertyka”, „bądź yin dla mojego yang”. Ich związek wydaje się opierać raczej na zasadzie „jesteś tym, czego potrzebowałem, a z czego nie zdawałem sobie sprawy”. Co więcej, podoba mi się również to, że autorka przedstawiając kryzys związku Eliasa i Ty’a nie zrzuca winy za całą sytuację na jednego z nich, ale pokazuje, w jaki sposób obie strony przyczyniły się do powstania problemu, jaki obaj mieli w niego wkład. Moim zdaniem w doskonały sposób podkreśla to dynamikę ich relacji oraz fakt, iż obaj w równym stopniu wnoszą coś do swojego związku.
Podsumowując, „Elias” jest powieścią naprawdę dobrą o interesującej fabule, ciekawych wątkach, fantastycznych bohaterach i związku, który może nas zainspirować oraz napełnić pozytywną energią. Naprawdę polecam Wam tę powieść.
"Elias" by Amy Aislin is a re-release of the novel published in 2017 as "Picture Winter". I admit it makes me very happy that this book is on the list of MM romance new releases once again, because I'm not sure if I would find it otherwise. The story presented in "Elias" is quite simple, but really interesting and can boast of several interesting motifs and a unique vibe that makes even the most popular threads in this novel different from others. Let's take a look at some examples: instant love which the main characters, Elias and Ty, are aware of and which they accept as the pace of their relationship; an accidental first meeting, after which Elias takes matters into his own hands; differences in lifestyle and social status, which aren't all that vital to our boys, because to Ty job satisfaction is much more important and he really has a lot to say on this topic. In short, in "Elias," the author seems to use some well known themes while putting emphasis on their less used aspects.
Reading "Elias" I quickly fell in love with the two main characters who, although different from each other in almost every respect, are both to some extent really sweet, innocent and in one way or another resemble two teddy bears that I would like to hug tightly. Although I suspect that one of these teddies would definitely try to break free, scratch me and say what he thinks about such treatment, while the other would wait for the hug to be over with displeasure or maybe indifference. To be honest, the fact that they are like that makes Elias and Ty unique, memorable and definitely lovable.
In addition to the characters themselves, I also like the way the dynamics of their relationship was presented in the novel. In my opinion, Elias and Ty don't seem to be like people who, to some extent, are opposites that complement each other in life. These two simply create something new, something special, motivate each other to act and make changes in life. Their relationship doesn't have a vibe of 'be an extrovert to me who is an introvert', 'be yin to my yang'. Their love seems to be based rather on the principle "you are what I've always needed in life and I've just realized it". What's more, I also like the fact that showing the crisis of Elias and Ty's relationship the author doesn't blame one of our boys for the whole situation, but shows that both sides contributed to the problem. I think it perfectly emphasizes the dynamics of their relationship and the fact that they both build it at the same time and in the same way.
To sum up, "Elias" is a really good novel which uses great motifs, have an interesting plot, fantastic characters and shows the relationship that inspires us and fills us with positive energy. What can I say, I really recommend you this novel.
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„Elias” autorstwa Amy Aislin jest reedycją powieści opublikowanej w 2017 roku jako „Picture Winter”. Przyznaję, że bardzo się cieszę, iż książka ta ponownie pojawiła się na liście MM romansowych nowości, ponieważ właśnie dzięki temu na nią trafiłam. Przedstawiona w „Elias” historia jest wprawdzie dosyć prosta, ale naprawdę interesująca i może pochwalić się kilkoma ciekawymi motywami oraz wyjątkowym klimatem, który sprawia, że nawet te najbardziej popularne wątki w tej powieści wydają się różnić do innych. Jako przykład możemy podać szybkie zakochanie, z którego główni bohaterowie, Elias i Ty, zdają sobie sprawę, a które akceptują jako tempo ich związku, przypadkowe pierwsze spotkanie, po którym to Elias bierze sprawy w swoje ręce, czy też różnice stylu życia oraz statusów społecznych, na które nasi chłopcy nie zwracają szczególnej uwagi, jako że dla Ty’a ważniejsze jest zadowolenie z wykonywanej pracy i to on tak naprawdę ma najwięcej do powiedzenia w tym temacie. Mówiąc krótko, w „Elias” autorka wydaje się wykorzystywać znane wątki kładąc nacisk na ich mniej szablonowe aspekty.
Czytając „Elias” bardzo szybko pokochałam dwójkę głównych bohaterów, którzy chociaż różnią się od siebie niemal pod każdym względem, są w pewnym stopniu naprawdę słodcy, niewinni i w taki lub inny sposób kojarzą mi się z pluszowymi misiami, które chciałabym mocno przytulić. Chociaż podejrzewam, że jeden z tych misiów na pewno próbowałby się wyrwać, podrapać i powiedziałby, co myśli o takim traktowaniu, podczas kiedy ten drugi z pełną niezadowolenia lub może obojętną miną po prostu czekałby aż będzie po wszystkim. Właśnie to, że są tacy, a nie inni czyni Eliasa i Ty’a wyjątkowymi, wartymi zapamiętania i łatwymi do pokochania.
Poza samymi bohaterami w powieści podoba mi się również dynamika ich relacji. Elias i Ty tak naprawdę nie sprawiają wrażenia osób, które będąc w pewnym stopniu swoimi przeciwieństwami dopełniają się życiowo. Ta dwójka po prostu tworzy coś nowego, coś wyjątkowego, motywuje się do działania i wprowadzania zmian w życiu. Ich związek pozbawiony jest klimatu „bądź ekstrawertykiem dla mnie introwertyka”, „bądź yin dla mojego yang”. Ich związek wydaje się opierać raczej na zasadzie „jesteś tym, czego potrzebowałem, a z czego nie zdawałem sobie sprawy”. Co więcej, podoba mi się również to, że autorka przedstawiając kryzys związku Eliasa i Ty’a nie zrzuca winy za całą sytuację na jednego z nich, ale pokazuje, w jaki sposób obie strony przyczyniły się do powstania problemu, jaki obaj mieli w niego wkład. Moim zdaniem w doskonały sposób podkreśla to dynamikę ich relacji oraz fakt, iż obaj w równym stopniu wnoszą coś do swojego związku.
Podsumowując, „Elias” jest powieścią naprawdę dobrą o interesującej fabule, ciekawych wątkach, fantastycznych bohaterach i związku, który może nas zainspirować oraz napełnić pozytywną energią. Naprawdę polecam Wam tę powieść.
December 4, 2017
*I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review through the M/M Romance Group DBML program.
4 stars
Synopsis: Elias has a reputation as being cold and aloof. His best work friend has gotten into spirituality and talks about his horoscope every day. Elias has a path in mind for work, where he wants to make VP. Even though he doesn't really enjoy all aspects of his work, he likes the security, and the fact that he's been working there for 7 years. One day, Elias puts his newspaper with his horoscope in the wrong recycling bin while the city worker is there changing bags. When the guy calls him out on it, Elias is rude, because he is late for work and it is cold out. The next day, Elias buys the guy coffee to make up for his rudeness, and when that doesn't seem to cut it, gets hot chocolate for him the next day. When Elias comes in on the fourth day with an apple turnover, they chat a little, and Elias asks the guy out for coffee.
Ty works for the city collecting trash and recycling, although he has a plan, and the education, to move up in the system. When he and Elias have an interesting conversation over hot beverages in a café, Ty asks Elias if he wants to help him move. Ty is moving out of the city so that his family won't have easy access to him. Ty loves them, but they can be overwhelming and smothering. When Elias shows up, Ty's family has just about everything done, so he and Elias bond over tv shows that they both watch. Elias ends up spending the night, even though he said that he doesn't want to move too fast.
After that night, Ty and Elias spend a lot of time together, getting to know one another. Slowly, slowly, Elias opens up and shows more and more of the self that he keeps hidden from everyone, because everyone leaves.
What I liked: Elias and Ty were interesting characters, and I liked seeing the growth in relationship, even though said relationship took place over a fairly short period of time. Ty and Elias both needed to recharge after being in a crowd of people, even if Ty was related to the entire crowd, which I can completely relate to, so it was nice to see that in a story. Elias and Ty were cute together, but not overly sweet to the point of being saccharine. Ty's family was fun, and I especially liked the interactions between Ty and his father, and his siblings.
What I didn't like: I would have liked more story, just because I thought that Elias and Ty, and Ty's family, went well together.
Overall impression: Well edited, alternating 3rd person POV between Ty and Elias. Ty and Elias did have a little conflict, but they (mostly) talked things out when they had issues, so there was no big misunderstanding. I enjoyed the relationship pacing in the story, and getting to know Ty and Elias as they got to know each other. (Meaning there wasn't a huge information dump about the characters; it mostly happened organically.)
4 stars
Synopsis: Elias has a reputation as being cold and aloof. His best work friend has gotten into spirituality and talks about his horoscope every day. Elias has a path in mind for work, where he wants to make VP. Even though he doesn't really enjoy all aspects of his work, he likes the security, and the fact that he's been working there for 7 years. One day, Elias puts his newspaper with his horoscope in the wrong recycling bin while the city worker is there changing bags. When the guy calls him out on it, Elias is rude, because he is late for work and it is cold out. The next day, Elias buys the guy coffee to make up for his rudeness, and when that doesn't seem to cut it, gets hot chocolate for him the next day. When Elias comes in on the fourth day with an apple turnover, they chat a little, and Elias asks the guy out for coffee.
Ty works for the city collecting trash and recycling, although he has a plan, and the education, to move up in the system. When he and Elias have an interesting conversation over hot beverages in a café, Ty asks Elias if he wants to help him move. Ty is moving out of the city so that his family won't have easy access to him. Ty loves them, but they can be overwhelming and smothering. When Elias shows up, Ty's family has just about everything done, so he and Elias bond over tv shows that they both watch. Elias ends up spending the night, even though he said that he doesn't want to move too fast.
After that night, Ty and Elias spend a lot of time together, getting to know one another. Slowly, slowly, Elias opens up and shows more and more of the self that he keeps hidden from everyone, because everyone leaves.
What I liked: Elias and Ty were interesting characters, and I liked seeing the growth in relationship, even though said relationship took place over a fairly short period of time. Ty and Elias both needed to recharge after being in a crowd of people, even if Ty was related to the entire crowd, which I can completely relate to, so it was nice to see that in a story. Elias and Ty were cute together, but not overly sweet to the point of being saccharine. Ty's family was fun, and I especially liked the interactions between Ty and his father, and his siblings.
What I didn't like: I would have liked more story, just because I thought that Elias and Ty, and Ty's family, went well together.
Overall impression: Well edited, alternating 3rd person POV between Ty and Elias. Ty and Elias did have a little conflict, but they (mostly) talked things out when they had issues, so there was no big misunderstanding. I enjoyed the relationship pacing in the story, and getting to know Ty and Elias as they got to know each other. (Meaning there wasn't a huge information dump about the characters; it mostly happened organically.)
September 26, 2017
What a lovely tale! Picture Winter was a really cute, light romance. The story was very low in drama and high in love, as we got to see the budding relationship of Elias and Ty, who were so adorably sweet together. I loved their story and the progression of their relationship, and although they didn't know each other all that long, their connection felt so solid and strong from the very start. The chemistry between them was insane, their interactions were wonderfully sweet and entertaining, and the whole romance was absolutely beautiful!
I enjoyed the family dynamic, which is something I always love. Ty's big family, his brothers and sisters and his parents, made for fab secondary characters and really added to the story. I particularly liked one scene where they were all sitting around eating a cake together in the basement, chatting and joking... I could picture it so vividly in my mind and it was such a wonderful family scene that made my heart melt.
I guess the whole confessions of love part might have been a little quick - maybe too quick for some readers. It definitely did not feel like insta-love to me, though, as Elias and Ty's relationship has certainly built to something strong and special before that point and you can really feel their connection. So it didn't really bother me as much as it might have in another story.
The ONLY gripe I had with Picture Winter was the very small - teeny tiny in fact! - amount of drama added just before the end. I was happy with how the story was progressing and enjoying such a light and fluffy romance, and would much rather have not seen them go through even the smallest of disagreements (yes I realise it's unrealistic to expect them to NEVER fight, but I just didn't want them to have any drama!) But honestly, it was quickly resolved and that was that.
I would have enjoyed to see more of this couple, perhaps a few more months down the line. I was disappointed that there was no epilogue, as by the end they've still only been together for less than two months. That's not a big issue though, as the story still ends nicely and with the promise of a HEA.
I would recommend this one for sure, particularly if you're looking for a light and sweet read.
***I was provided with an ARC of Picture Winter from Signal Boost Promotions in exchange for an honest review.
I enjoyed the family dynamic, which is something I always love. Ty's big family, his brothers and sisters and his parents, made for fab secondary characters and really added to the story. I particularly liked one scene where they were all sitting around eating a cake together in the basement, chatting and joking... I could picture it so vividly in my mind and it was such a wonderful family scene that made my heart melt.
I guess the whole confessions of love part might have been a little quick - maybe too quick for some readers. It definitely did not feel like insta-love to me, though, as Elias and Ty's relationship has certainly built to something strong and special before that point and you can really feel their connection. So it didn't really bother me as much as it might have in another story.
The ONLY gripe I had with Picture Winter was the very small - teeny tiny in fact! - amount of drama added just before the end. I was happy with how the story was progressing and enjoying such a light and fluffy romance, and would much rather have not seen them go through even the smallest of disagreements (yes I realise it's unrealistic to expect them to NEVER fight, but I just didn't want them to have any drama!) But honestly, it was quickly resolved and that was that.
I would have enjoyed to see more of this couple, perhaps a few more months down the line. I was disappointed that there was no epilogue, as by the end they've still only been together for less than two months. That's not a big issue though, as the story still ends nicely and with the promise of a HEA.
I would recommend this one for sure, particularly if you're looking for a light and sweet read.
***I was provided with an ARC of Picture Winter from Signal Boost Promotions in exchange for an honest review.
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