Searching for Him by Sarina Bowen and Elle Kennedy on VK (VKontakte) reveals a community of readers sharing reviews and looking for digital copies. Him is the first book in an award-winning LGBTQ+ hockey romance series featuring characters Jamie Canning and Ryan Wesley. VK Community and Availability
: Several VK groups and user accounts have been suspended or shut down for posting Sarina Bowen’s books. Active Requests him sarina bowen vk
For Authors (The Damage): Bowen has publicly spoken about the struggle against digital piracy. She notes that for every 10 "VK downloads," there is likely one lost sale. While some argue piracy leads to discoverability, most romance authors agree that VK groups have cost them significant royalties, especially in international markets. Searching for Him by Sarina Bowen and Elle
At its core, Him succeeds because it subverts the toxic masculinity often associated with professional sports. Wes and Ryan’s relationship develops not despite their hockey rivalry, but through it. Bowen and Kennedy craft a narrative where vulnerability is strength, and where the phrase “just between us boys” evolves from a secret shame into a promise of intimacy. The novel’s explicit but tender sex scenes, combined with sharp humor and heartfelt friendship, offer a blueprint for healthy queer romance. For many young readers, especially those in regions with limited access to LGBTQ+ literature, Him represents a lifeline—a validation of their own desires and identities. Newsletter: By signing up for Sarina Bowen’s newsletter
The story follows Jamie Canning and Ryan Wesley, who were once inseparable best friends at an elite hockey camp in Lake Placid. Their friendship ended abruptly four years ago after a drunken night of experimentation that left Jamie confused and Wesley, who has always been gay and harbored a crush on Jamie, deeply regretful.