Pioneer Winter: A Novel

The second book in the Pioneer series, which catalyzed one of Russia’s largest-ever crackdowns on LGBTQ+ representation, continues the story of star-crossed gay lovers 20 years after meeting at summer camp Yurka and Volodya first meet in 1986 during summer at Pioneer Camp—and it’s there that they grow closer and closer, despite the fear and consequences of their illegal attraction. In this second book in the internationally bestselling series, Yurka, now a professional musician and conductor, is on tour in Kharkiv when Volodya goes to find him to reexamine their shared past. In Pioneer Summer, their story unfolds from Yurka’s perspective—and in this touching sequel, we venture into Volodya’s upbringing and manhood as he reckons with his own gay identity. Toggling between 1986 and 2006, Pioneer Winter furthers the story of these star-crossed lovers and the romance that builds between them over the years. Cowritten by a Ukrainian–Russian duo, the series became a runaway TikTok sensation and #1 bestseller in Russia, reaching such heights of popularity that Putin stepped in to ban it. Now their story continues in Pioneer Winter, a heartfelt romance that will transport English readers to another place and time—and is a testament to love’s enduring bonds.