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wrentheblurry's review
2.5 stars.
Initially, I loved this book. It was intense, visceral and very different from most of the books I've read. Then time passed, and I made small progress towards finishing it, and my love lessened. Then slowly I started to become annoyed by it. It just became too repetitive. The word choice, the scenes, the sentence structure (specifically where one word is a sentence, followed by several other one-word sentences) got up my nose.
Finally, at 40% into the book, I couldn't go on reading it normally. Still, Voinov is a decent writer, and the sex scenes were completely worthwhile. So I began skimming. For the remaining 60% of the book, I mostly just read the scenes where the two main characters are together, with a page or two of plot development thrown in so I would have some idea of why they were even together.
Because I was compelled to "finish" it, and because the sex scenes did not ever cause me to roll my eyes, that counts as 3 stars. Yet it is way, way too long, I never felt connected to the characters, and at a certain point I had read enough sex scenes between the characters that I could predict what would happen in the next one with some amount of accuracy. That counts as 2 stars, which gave me my average.
I am surprised it's a free title, the author has clearly poured a ton of work into the project, and deserves to be rewarded. The book may would have worked better for me if it was broken into two (or more) separate titles. I think there are sequels which are also super long.
I very much like getting to know only a few characters well, so I was pleased that only Dan and Vadim were the focus here. But, even at the end, I didn't care about them. As I said, I never connected with them; they felt too predictable and superficial. I didn't enjoy the military theme and that may have had something to do with my bias against the characters (and setting. and plot.).
In the end, I know several people that love this title, and I can understand why. I hope that I've been explicit enough as to why I don't. :)
Initially, I loved this book. It was intense, visceral and very different from most of the books I've read. Then time passed, and I made small progress towards finishing it, and my love lessened. Then slowly I started to become annoyed by it. It just became too repetitive. The word choice, the scenes, the sentence structure (specifically where one word is a sentence, followed by several other one-word sentences) got up my nose.
Finally, at 40% into the book, I couldn't go on reading it normally. Still, Voinov is a decent writer, and the sex scenes were completely worthwhile. So I began skimming. For the remaining 60% of the book, I mostly just read the scenes where the two main characters are together, with a page or two of plot development thrown in so I would have some idea of why they were even together.
Because I was compelled to "finish" it, and because the sex scenes did not ever cause me to roll my eyes, that counts as 3 stars. Yet it is way, way too long, I never felt connected to the characters, and at a certain point I had read enough sex scenes between the characters that I could predict what would happen in the next one with some amount of accuracy. That counts as 2 stars, which gave me my average.
I am surprised it's a free title, the author has clearly poured a ton of work into the project, and deserves to be rewarded. The book may would have worked better for me if it was broken into two (or more) separate titles. I think there are sequels which are also super long.
I very much like getting to know only a few characters well, so I was pleased that only Dan and Vadim were the focus here. But, even at the end, I didn't care about them. As I said, I never connected with them; they felt too predictable and superficial. I didn't enjoy the military theme and that may have had something to do with my bias against the characters (and setting. and plot.).
In the end, I know several people that love this title, and I can understand why. I hope that I've been explicit enough as to why I don't. :)
serkonos's review
challenging
dark
emotional
tense
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death, Rape, Sexual content, Torture, War, Sexual violence, Homophobia, and Violence
Moderate: Sexism, Suicidal thoughts, Alcohol, and Blood
munderoon's review
5.0
Holy Moly.
Seriously, what am I supposed to say now? I feel like my normal vocabulary does not even suit this book in the slightest way.
When I started to read this, Tina warned me "It's dramatic! I'm here to hold your hand when it starts to get dramatic." And at first I was like "Ahh, nah. Won't need that, since I can't believe it is THAT dramatic."
So when I started to read it, it felt like it really wasn't dramatic. Just violent. But although it was violent, it took me only some pages to get used to the writing style. And the violence, because I started to understand that it was an honest aspect of an honest book.
I've never been to a war (that sounds like it's some tourist adventure spot, but that's not what I mean :p) and I'm glad, because Dan is right, when he talks about the glorified heroes of a war, which can never be glorious (I know that's from the second part already, but I really couldn't wait :D).
So this book is almost like coping with extreme situations. For me, there are five stages falling in love with Vadim and Dan's story:
1. The Shock. As I said, reading something like that doesn't fit into my, otherwise, pretty normal and fairytale-like reading context. You do have to get used to it and if you're not willing to dive into the psychology and the honesty of this book, you won't enjoy it.
2. The Understanding. Once you are able to "work" with the features of the book, you start to understand both Dan and Vadim. Or at least, you try. Because sometimes they both have those moments, where they're completely lost in their own mind, a structure we can't enter, not entirely at least. Which makes them so alive, it is almost surreal again.
3. The Addiction. You can't read all day? Oh, what a shame, because Vadim and Dan will cling to your mind like some friendly, addictive parasite, constantly reminding you of them and their story. Their thoughts. Their experiences. You feel like you've been to Afghanistan, you've tasted the dust and the sun, you shivered in the cold of the mountains, Dan's mountains. You feared for your life, along with Dan and Vadim, both struggeling in their minds sometimes, but never with their desires, their deepest emotions. Even those moments, Vadim wanted to die he was still so strong and a part of him stayed strong throughout the whole time.
4. The Realization. When you end the book and have to face the truth: that Vadim and Dan are - after all - nothing more than fictional. Fictional characters in a fictional part of a true war. And at first, you can't understand, because they are one of the most authentic, amazing characters you ever read about. They are so different and yet they have some things in common, you wouldn't even expect. It's like life itself wrote this story and you bow your head to a book, a masterpiece like that. And finally, you fall into the last stage...
5. The Craving. Because you know there's more to it, much more. And you're not willing to wait. Although you wouldn't want to admit it right away, but you care for these soldiers and you want. to. see. them. happy. That may not suit them at all, but still... one part of you longs for them to be happy, longs for the fairytale in a place, where exactly this fairytale could possibly get you into prison, or worse. You can't be sure it'll end well.
But still...
So, the only thing left to say is: read it. Read this book, because you won't regret it. It is something entirely different, compared to everything I have read before and I don't regret it, too. It may seem odd or even scary, maybe harsh and violent at the beginning, but you get to understand a psychology, feelings and decisions, you might never have to experience yourself...
(And Tina, just wait for it. I WILL come back at needing your hand, because I'm sure there will be some heavy sobbing again soon ;D)
Seriously, what am I supposed to say now? I feel like my normal vocabulary does not even suit this book in the slightest way.
When I started to read this, Tina warned me "It's dramatic! I'm here to hold your hand when it starts to get dramatic." And at first I was like "Ahh, nah. Won't need that, since I can't believe it is THAT dramatic."
So when I started to read it, it felt like it really wasn't dramatic. Just violent. But although it was violent, it took me only some pages to get used to the writing style. And the violence, because I started to understand that it was an honest aspect of an honest book.
I've never been to a war (that sounds like it's some tourist adventure spot, but that's not what I mean :p) and I'm glad, because Dan is right, when he talks about the glorified heroes of a war, which can never be glorious (I know that's from the second part already, but I really couldn't wait :D).
So this book is almost like coping with extreme situations. For me, there are five stages falling in love with Vadim and Dan's story:
1. The Shock. As I said, reading something like that doesn't fit into my, otherwise, pretty normal and fairytale-like reading context. You do have to get used to it and if you're not willing to dive into the psychology and the honesty of this book, you won't enjoy it.
2. The Understanding. Once you are able to "work" with the features of the book, you start to understand both Dan and Vadim. Or at least, you try. Because sometimes they both have those moments, where they're completely lost in their own mind, a structure we can't enter, not entirely at least. Which makes them so alive, it is almost surreal again.
3. The Addiction. You can't read all day? Oh, what a shame, because Vadim and Dan will cling to your mind like some friendly, addictive parasite, constantly reminding you of them and their story. Their thoughts. Their experiences. You feel like you've been to Afghanistan, you've tasted the dust and the sun, you shivered in the cold of the mountains, Dan's mountains. You feared for your life, along with Dan and Vadim, both struggeling in their minds sometimes, but never with their desires, their deepest emotions. Even those moments, Vadim wanted to die he was still so strong and a part of him stayed strong throughout the whole time.
4. The Realization. When you end the book and have to face the truth: that Vadim and Dan are - after all - nothing more than fictional. Fictional characters in a fictional part of a true war. And at first, you can't understand, because they are one of the most authentic, amazing characters you ever read about. They are so different and yet they have some things in common, you wouldn't even expect. It's like life itself wrote this story and you bow your head to a book, a masterpiece like that. And finally, you fall into the last stage...
5. The Craving. Because you know there's more to it, much more. And you're not willing to wait. Although you wouldn't want to admit it right away, but you care for these soldiers and you want. to. see. them. happy. That may not suit them at all, but still... one part of you longs for them to be happy, longs for the fairytale in a place, where exactly this fairytale could possibly get you into prison, or worse. You can't be sure it'll end well.
But still...
So, the only thing left to say is: read it. Read this book, because you won't regret it. It is something entirely different, compared to everything I have read before and I don't regret it, too. It may seem odd or even scary, maybe harsh and violent at the beginning, but you get to understand a psychology, feelings and decisions, you might never have to experience yourself...
(And Tina, just wait for it. I WILL come back at needing your hand, because I'm sure there will be some heavy sobbing again soon ;D)
richard76's review
5.0
I am astounded by this book. This is the gay answer to Diana Gabaldon's epic straight romance, "Outlander."
"Soldiers" starts with the two main characters brutalizing each other, which lasts the first 10% or so of the book. I mean, they're really awful to each other. But over the course of the story, the relationship between these two characters slowly evolves until they fall in love. I knew all this when I started reading, and at the beginning I couldn't fathom how they could turn into a supercouple. But they do! Slowly, organically, step-by-step.
In fact, they don't even actually kiss until about 75% in (plenty of sex on the way there, though), and as a result, it's a high-impact scene.
The novel is full of sex scenes, and many of them -- due to the nature of the relationship between Dan and Vadim -- are violent or forceful. It's like reading a BDSM romance; which isn't normally my thing, except that as the relationship evolves, so do the sexual encounters.
Their relationship is intense and full of drama and violence. The story is set during the Cold War; Dan is a special forces soldier from the United Kingdom, and Vadim the same from Russia. Their relationship is forbidden, not just because they're both men, but because they're supposed to be enemies. Most of the story takes place in Afghanistan, during the Soviet occupation. The author brings the land to life, but the setting is definitely secondary. While I wouldn't have minded a little more history and scenery, but the focus is solely on the characters.
Indeed, the novel is more like a character study of two men from very different backgrounds, how they connect with each other, and how they evolve and grow in response to each other. They're both like flowers that bloom over the course of the story, thanks to each other, and it's really amazing to read.
I gave the book 5 stars because it's a captivating read that honestly has no equal in gay romance (that I know of). Most gay romances tend to be pure erotica, lacking substance in character or story; or they're entertaining beach reads that just don't have the scope or depth to be called "epic."
That said, it's not without its flaws .. they just pale in comparison to its strengths. For one thing, it's too long. This book could *easily* be cut by at least 10%. And it's only the first of four volumes! Towards the end, there's an entire section that seemed totally extraneous, and I actually just skimmed through. For that matter, I'll be honest, I skimmed a lot of the more violent and sexual themes. I was looking for an epic love story, not erotica or some BDSM fantasy, and I didn't pay as much attention to the parts that interested me less. Still, most of the sex in this book is quite hot.
You'll love this book if you have an appetite for an intense gay love story that truly feels epic in scope; but you'll need to be able to stomach quite a bit of violence and brutality. As in "Outlander," it's historically accurate, but that doesn't necessarily make it easier to read.
As mentioned, this is the first of four volumes comprising the "Special Forces" series, so this book has something of a cliffhanger ending. Just FYI. Thankfully all four volumes are free, so there are no barriers to moving on to the next one.
"Soldiers" starts with the two main characters brutalizing each other, which lasts the first 10% or so of the book. I mean, they're really awful to each other. But over the course of the story, the relationship between these two characters slowly evolves until they fall in love. I knew all this when I started reading, and at the beginning I couldn't fathom how they could turn into a supercouple. But they do! Slowly, organically, step-by-step.
In fact, they don't even actually kiss until about 75% in (plenty of sex on the way there, though), and as a result, it's a high-impact scene.
The novel is full of sex scenes, and many of them -- due to the nature of the relationship between Dan and Vadim -- are violent or forceful. It's like reading a BDSM romance; which isn't normally my thing, except that as the relationship evolves, so do the sexual encounters.
Their relationship is intense and full of drama and violence. The story is set during the Cold War; Dan is a special forces soldier from the United Kingdom, and Vadim the same from Russia. Their relationship is forbidden, not just because they're both men, but because they're supposed to be enemies. Most of the story takes place in Afghanistan, during the Soviet occupation. The author brings the land to life, but the setting is definitely secondary. While I wouldn't have minded a little more history and scenery, but the focus is solely on the characters.
Indeed, the novel is more like a character study of two men from very different backgrounds, how they connect with each other, and how they evolve and grow in response to each other. They're both like flowers that bloom over the course of the story, thanks to each other, and it's really amazing to read.
I gave the book 5 stars because it's a captivating read that honestly has no equal in gay romance (that I know of). Most gay romances tend to be pure erotica, lacking substance in character or story; or they're entertaining beach reads that just don't have the scope or depth to be called "epic."
That said, it's not without its flaws .. they just pale in comparison to its strengths. For one thing, it's too long. This book could *easily* be cut by at least 10%. And it's only the first of four volumes! Towards the end, there's an entire section that seemed totally extraneous, and I actually just skimmed through. For that matter, I'll be honest, I skimmed a lot of the more violent and sexual themes. I was looking for an epic love story, not erotica or some BDSM fantasy, and I didn't pay as much attention to the parts that interested me less. Still, most of the sex in this book is quite hot.
You'll love this book if you have an appetite for an intense gay love story that truly feels epic in scope; but you'll need to be able to stomach quite a bit of violence and brutality. As in "Outlander," it's historically accurate, but that doesn't necessarily make it easier to read.
As mentioned, this is the first of four volumes comprising the "Special Forces" series, so this book has something of a cliffhanger ending. Just FYI. Thankfully all four volumes are free, so there are no barriers to moving on to the next one.
jerseygirl2912's review
5.0
What a read! Intoxicating, heartbreaking, brutal, raw, emotianal... everything.
After the first chapter I really couldn't see how Aleksandr Voinov would be able to turn this brutal hate to love... but he made it. In very intense word he gets across the feelings of Dan and Vadim and the change of their relationship and how it changed their lifes.
After the first chapter I really couldn't see how Aleksandr Voinov would be able to turn this brutal hate to love... but he made it. In very intense word he gets across the feelings of Dan and Vadim and the change of their relationship and how it changed their lifes.
zazzilou's review
5.0
OMG...
I have officially flipped ... cried ... and snotted. What a fantastic, tragic, realistic, fascinating, gutwrenching, mesmerizing, brutally violent, heartstoppingly sad, thought-provoking, unbelievably romantic, and emotionally draining story of war, honor, survival, and most of all love. And that was just Part 1. I want to read the next book, [b:Special Forces - Mercenaries Part I|7909618|Special Forces - Mercenaries Part I (Special Forces, #2 part 1)|Aleksandr Voinov|https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1269463879s/7909618.jpg|11183462] immediately, but I can't because I have other challenges and BRs. DAMMIT!
Here's my soundtrack for first time Dan and Vadim make love:
https://youtu.be/_Q2rZb7E0EY
I wish my rating could be ★★★★★★!
I have officially flipped ... cried ... and snotted. What a fantastic, tragic, realistic, fascinating, gutwrenching, mesmerizing, brutally violent, heartstoppingly sad, thought-provoking, unbelievably romantic, and emotionally draining story of war, honor, survival, and most of all love. And that was just Part 1. I want to read the next book, [b:Special Forces - Mercenaries Part I|7909618|Special Forces - Mercenaries Part I (Special Forces, #2 part 1)|Aleksandr Voinov|https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1269463879s/7909618.jpg|11183462] immediately, but I can't because I have other challenges and BRs. DAMMIT!
Here's my soundtrack for first time Dan and Vadim make love:
https://youtu.be/_Q2rZb7E0EY
I wish my rating could be ★★★★★★!
kaje_harper's review
5.0
This has to rank among the most intense books I have ever read in this genre. As it opens, both MC's are somewhat unlikeable men, particularly Vadim. The ability of the authors to make me care so intensely about a man who starts the book as a rapist, murderer and casual assassin of innocent children is remarkable.
The relationship between these MC's is like no other, violent at its core, intensely sexual, and yet gradually becoming caring, loving and by the end tender. Everything in the world conspires to keep them apart, to smash their bodies, torture their senses, confuse their minds. And in that hell that is war in Afghanistan, they find in each other a truth to live by, a center to hold to when the world falls apart, a hope when there is no hope.
This is a book that demands to be read in one sitting, and pushes you, heart aching, scared and yet warm with the strength of love, into the next one. It demands that you love a character who still unrepentantly kills those who get in his way (like the Pakistani patrols.) It makes you believe in a relationship where pain is inexorably mixed up with love, and where the searing touch of knife on flesh is a commitment and a benediction. And it all works, harshly and beautifully. Highly recommended.
The relationship between these MC's is like no other, violent at its core, intensely sexual, and yet gradually becoming caring, loving and by the end tender. Everything in the world conspires to keep them apart, to smash their bodies, torture their senses, confuse their minds. And in that hell that is war in Afghanistan, they find in each other a truth to live by, a center to hold to when the world falls apart, a hope when there is no hope.
This is a book that demands to be read in one sitting, and pushes you, heart aching, scared and yet warm with the strength of love, into the next one. It demands that you love a character who still unrepentantly kills those who get in his way (like the Pakistani patrols.) It makes you believe in a relationship where pain is inexorably mixed up with love, and where the searing touch of knife on flesh is a commitment and a benediction. And it all works, harshly and beautifully. Highly recommended.
vanou's review against another edition
challenging
dark
emotional
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
The second part of the director's cut was just as wonderful as the first one, the pain, the love, the excruciating longing mingle hard and fast, an emotional rollercoaster you can never stop until the last page. It's simply beautiful, memorable and heart breaking. There are 3 more books in the series that I definitely plan on reading this month. I need to know their entire love story, because it is first and foremost a highly romantic tale. Dan and Vadim are complex, multilayered characters, so alive, so honest, so fragile, I know them, and still I want more.