Authors:Ivan Rusilko and Everly Drummond
Two completely different songs blended together are called a music mash up. But what do you call the final work of art, which incorporates a real life hero, but is created by two separate individuals: one a paranormal romance author and the other a practicing physician who holds the title of Mr. USA 2010? I would call it a “brilliant masterpiece” that leaves me with the hope that there are nice guys still out there that aren’t afraid to show their true feelings.
In the Beginning: After reading a blog with a posting of #ManCandyMonday that had a blurb about Dr. Ivan Rusilko, author Everly Drummond was convinced that Ivan would make the perfect hero for her next romance novel. A month later, Everly worked up the courage to contact Ivan and asked him if he would be interested in contributing his name to the book she was going to write. After agreeing to work together and numerous emails back and forth, (Everly lives in Canada and Ivan lives in Florida), the writing process began. The Winemaker’s Dinner is a “fictionalized erotic memoir” inspired by the past romantic triumphs and tragedies of Ivan’s real life. As they say, the rest is history. (Note: Everly and Ivan never met in person until after the book was finished.)
Synopsis: Ivan spots Jaden Thorne, an up-and-coming Head Chef, at a special event called The Winemaker’s Dinner, attended by all the high society and restaurateurs. After a brief encounter, instant attraction, and delicious wine, neither of them can keep their eyes off each other and end up having a one-night stand. The following morning Jaden realizes who Ivan really is (Doctor, Mr. USA, and socialite) and runs away without even a word to Ivan.
Ivan is aware of the chemistry between the two of them and is determined to pursue Jaden and get answers. Ivan introduces Jaden to important people, all the while courting her, thus developing a heated relationship filled with passion. All of Jaden’s hopes and dreams begin to come true with the help and influence of Ivan. Unfortunately, fame and a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity threaten the two lovers. Will Ivan keep his promise to himself to sacrifice a relationship in order to maintain a lasting friendship? You’ll have to read to find out.
Thoughts: I was pleasantly surprised to find myself immediately drawn into the story as it was filled with glitz & glamour, romance, and passion. Both characters are so likable; and of course, I knew Ivan was real and what he looked like. So it made reading the book all the more real. This book made me smile, made me laugh, and it also made me cry. And I think women will fall in love with Ivan because he is the “perfect guy,” he knows how to treat a lady, and he speaks directly from his heart:
“Your beauty took my breath away, but your mind has stopped my heart.”
“To the love that stains my heart, but defines my soul…I thank you.”
“Jaden, with you, I think I’ve finally found my miracle, my once in a lifetime. I love you more with each breath you take and with every smile that graces your face. I know I’m in love with you, because you make every day I’m with you the best day of my life.”
Thank You: I want to personally thank Ivan Rusilko and Everly Drummond for taking time out of your busy schedules, two Saturdays in a row, to chat with us as well as your many fans. We hope that you will join us again when the second book in the trilogy is released (hopefully in December) as I am eagerly awaiting to find out what happens next.
Leave a Reply