Join Nico Michaels, who thrives on a carefree lifestyle, burying his chaotic past under a veil of shallow relationships. He has found solace in the company of his close-knit circle of friends, primarily his roommate Malachi Mizrahi. Despite Malachi’s neurodivergent nature causing him to wake up with a different personality each day, his affection for Nico is a constant. They have this unique rapport, united by their mutual interests ranging from anime to nature documentaries, and even sharing a bed—though platonically.
However, things take a turn when one fateful night, a kiss blurs the lines of their friendship. Just as they stand on the brink of something more profound, a frantic call from one of Mal's dance students plunges them into a heart-wrenching missing person’s investigation. This event sets off a chain of revelations, including Mal's secretive management of Nico's life, shaking Nico to his core and altering his perception of their relationship.
As they navigate the treacherous waters of a ruthless Chinese triad amid this chaos, their bond only strengthens. Nico begins to realize that Malachi may not only be his ideal friend, but also the perfect partner who can meet all his needs. Together, they face their histories and the challenges of the present, striving for hope in a tumultuous world.
Barbarian combines elements of dark romance with themes of friends-to-lovers, showcasing the journey of two individuals facing personal challenges and threats. With a masochistic vigilante suffering from ADHD and a controlling yet adoring best friend, this story captivates with its blend of dark humor, steamy encounters, and the kind of violence that is only directed at those who truly deserve it. As the third entry in the Jericho's Boys series, expect a fulfilling happily-ever-after (HEA) without cliffhangers, following a different couple's dynamic in each installment.
