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IGNITE
Life in 1925 Atlanta, Georgia, makes Truck realize three
He must demand respect...
Be uncompromising in the protection of his family...
And see Josephine for who she really is...
When his family is faced with losing everything, Truck embarks on a path from which there is no turning back. Ignite is a complicated tale of passion and unconditional love while navigating the Jim Crow South.
He must demand respect...
Be uncompromising in the protection of his family...
And see Josephine for who she really is...
When his family is faced with losing everything, Truck embarks on a path from which there is no turning back. Ignite is a complicated tale of passion and unconditional love while navigating the Jim Crow South.
312 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 24, 2023
40 people are currently reading
122 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
January 21, 2024
This is a story of ingenuity, commitment, dedication, loyalty , brotherhood, and love….this is such a well written novel…I enjoyed the complex triangle of Truck, Josie and Corn.
November 27, 2023
Audiobook version
Narrated by JD Jackson
I loved, loved, loved this book. Josie and Truck's love story is so beautiful.
Truck is a good man, but he's inexperienced when it comes to love. Once he sees Josie, there's no one else for him. Unfortunately for him, his best friend Corn, got to her first. When incident almost takes her life, Corn leaves her behind and Truck helps to bring her back to life. Josie is a black woman trying to survive in the Jim Crow South. She has a past, but that doesn't matter to Truck.
Truck is tired of being thought of as weak, so he makes some decisions that will change his life. This book is set in rural Georgia during Jim Crow. I was so nervous that some racist violence was going to happen, but there was none of that in this book, only some references to other incidents. There adventures had me on pins and needles, but that tension kept me listening until the end.
Highly recommend if you love historical fiction and a beautiful love story. This is my first book by the author, but definitely won't be the last.
Narrated by JD Jackson
I loved, loved, loved this book. Josie and Truck's love story is so beautiful.
Truck is a good man, but he's inexperienced when it comes to love. Once he sees Josie, there's no one else for him. Unfortunately for him, his best friend Corn, got to her first. When incident almost takes her life, Corn leaves her behind and Truck helps to bring her back to life. Josie is a black woman trying to survive in the Jim Crow South. She has a past, but that doesn't matter to Truck.
Truck is tired of being thought of as weak, so he makes some decisions that will change his life. This book is set in rural Georgia during Jim Crow. I was so nervous that some racist violence was going to happen, but there was none of that in this book, only some references to other incidents. There adventures had me on pins and needles, but that tension kept me listening until the end.
Highly recommend if you love historical fiction and a beautiful love story. This is my first book by the author, but definitely won't be the last.
January 29, 2024
Baby Joan knows she can write tf out of an aggressive MMC that you can’t help but love!! And I love all indeed…. yasss daddy hold me against my will until I love you 🤣🤣
Truck, Josie and Corn had an interesting dynamic and the fact that their story took place in the heart of the Jim Crow Era made it that much more intense! I throughly enjoyed this story and Jakobi delivered like only he can!
Joan has knocked every single book I’ve indulged in by her out of the park and I can’t wait to see what else I can get my hands on!
Truck, Josie and Corn had an interesting dynamic and the fact that their story took place in the heart of the Jim Crow Era made it that much more intense! I throughly enjoyed this story and Jakobi delivered like only he can!
Joan has knocked every single book I’ve indulged in by her out of the park and I can’t wait to see what else I can get my hands on!
February 3, 2024
I appreciate when a book is written like a movie. This is one of them, you can see it playing out. Now let’s get to the review.
I did NOT trust Josie until the very last chapter. The dynamic between Truck and Corn was very strange I’m still not sure I understand their loyalty to each other.
1925 Georgia. Jim Crow. Josie a grifter of sorts. Corn a bum of circumstance.Truck a mechanic. Truck is loyal, a protector, and provider. Truck was raised by his Uncle & Aunt who are now in a predatory situation with the bank over the note on their land. Truck will do whatever it takes to keep their land, look after his family and provide for and protect Josie. Read this book of you love historical fiction. Read this book if you love action. Read this book if you love romance. Read this book if you like a story that has movement and you are not sure where it’s going. Just go ahead and read this book.
An another note I feel like Joan Vassar is playing with me because is another story coming???
I did NOT trust Josie until the very last chapter. The dynamic between Truck and Corn was very strange I’m still not sure I understand their loyalty to each other.
1925 Georgia. Jim Crow. Josie a grifter of sorts. Corn a bum of circumstance.Truck a mechanic. Truck is loyal, a protector, and provider. Truck was raised by his Uncle & Aunt who are now in a predatory situation with the bank over the note on their land. Truck will do whatever it takes to keep their land, look after his family and provide for and protect Josie. Read this book of you love historical fiction. Read this book if you love action. Read this book if you love romance. Read this book if you like a story that has movement and you are not sure where it’s going. Just go ahead and read this book.
An another note I feel like Joan Vassar is playing with me because is another story coming???
November 25, 2023
Joan Vassar has done it again! Set in 1925 Atlanta Georgia, Vassar tells a story of family, friendship, and love as Truck discovers the man he is to become in a land ruled by Jim Crow. She has once again proven to readers that she is the master at making you visualize every moment as each scene plays out in your mind. The scenery is described in vivid detail, captivating me from the very first page. The manner of speaking, style of dress, and day to day life are all true to the era. Vassar pays exquisite attention to detail.
My emotions ran the gamut as each character’s story was told and their journey was laid before me. I enjoyed watching Truck evolve into the man he was destined to become: protecting his family while allowing himself the opportunity to love Josephine in a way she didn’t know possible. I appreciated Josephine’s strength and how unapologetic she was about who she was as a Black woman. I was also enlightened by Corn’s growth and maturity as the story progressed.
Living in the Jim Crow South did not afford a man or woman many opportunities to thrive, but I was enthralled to go along for the ride once the fire was IGNITEd in Truck and he decided to make his own opportunity to save his family and keep them from losing everything. This story is packed full of suspense and action, with a wonderful story of love and passion woven within. Job well done.
My emotions ran the gamut as each character’s story was told and their journey was laid before me. I enjoyed watching Truck evolve into the man he was destined to become: protecting his family while allowing himself the opportunity to love Josephine in a way she didn’t know possible. I appreciated Josephine’s strength and how unapologetic she was about who she was as a Black woman. I was also enlightened by Corn’s growth and maturity as the story progressed.
Living in the Jim Crow South did not afford a man or woman many opportunities to thrive, but I was enthralled to go along for the ride once the fire was IGNITEd in Truck and he decided to make his own opportunity to save his family and keep them from losing everything. This story is packed full of suspense and action, with a wonderful story of love and passion woven within. Job well done.
November 26, 2023
I HAVE BEEN IGNITED 🔥🔥🔥
In the hands of the masterful Joan Vassar, "IGNITE" is a time-traveling journey to a land steeped in history, where details of Georgia's landscape and culture is brought to life. With a deft touch, Vassar weaves a tale that is both poignant and suspenseful, drawing the reader into a world of danger, passion, and revenge with this profound, prolific and powerful story that had me captivated from beginning to end.
Truck's unwavering love for Josie, despite her troubles, is a compelling testament to the power of love in the face of adversity. Josie's own struggles are equally engaging, as she learns to trust in herself and in the love of another. While Corn is working through his own self discovery. Life is challenging enough trying to survive and the odds are not in their favor until the odds favor them and they take matters into their own hands.
This emotional and heartfelt story is seductive, suspenseful, and engaging. The plot twists kept me on the edge of my seat. The emotions that run through the story are palpable, and the angst of the characters is both heartbreaking and warming. These characters' journeys had me invested in their story that gets more intense, dangerous and deadly as you read.
The narration by JD Jackson was an enthralling experience. He delivered the
the true essence of each character bringing them to life with an unparalleled talent. He embodies the crux of each character's unique spirit breathing life into every word spoken and truly becomes the voice of each persona.
"IGNITE" is a mesmerizing work of fiction you absolutely must read!
In the hands of the masterful Joan Vassar, "IGNITE" is a time-traveling journey to a land steeped in history, where details of Georgia's landscape and culture is brought to life. With a deft touch, Vassar weaves a tale that is both poignant and suspenseful, drawing the reader into a world of danger, passion, and revenge with this profound, prolific and powerful story that had me captivated from beginning to end.
Truck's unwavering love for Josie, despite her troubles, is a compelling testament to the power of love in the face of adversity. Josie's own struggles are equally engaging, as she learns to trust in herself and in the love of another. While Corn is working through his own self discovery. Life is challenging enough trying to survive and the odds are not in their favor until the odds favor them and they take matters into their own hands.
This emotional and heartfelt story is seductive, suspenseful, and engaging. The plot twists kept me on the edge of my seat. The emotions that run through the story are palpable, and the angst of the characters is both heartbreaking and warming. These characters' journeys had me invested in their story that gets more intense, dangerous and deadly as you read.
The narration by JD Jackson was an enthralling experience. He delivered the
the true essence of each character bringing them to life with an unparalleled talent. He embodies the crux of each character's unique spirit breathing life into every word spoken and truly becomes the voice of each persona.
"IGNITE" is a mesmerizing work of fiction you absolutely must read!
December 9, 2023
Definitely a “I wonder how this will play out” novel. I did not know how I was feeling about Josie. At first I was like oh maybe she the wild card thats going to out smart all the men and run with the money. But, her character ended up being for the team. I am shocked that Corn came to her to ask her to leave with him knowing she was clearly involved with his best friend Truck. That shocked me after all they been through. If there is a part 2 I can see one of them double crossing the other. Just dont know which one yet…
November 6, 2025
I truly enjoyed this book!!!…The time jumps allowed for me to know the back story and how these characters ended up where they were in the end!!!…
Corn wanted stability, and on his terms and where he would be respected!!!…He was a rolling stone, looking for love!!!…
Josie was a broken woman!!!…My heart broke for her after her fiancé was unalived by his brother & I understood why she left, because going backwards was not an option and she wanted more!!!…She was use to being used and thought that would get her where she wanted to be!!!…
Truck was a man that appeared to be clueless about personal relationships, but a provider and caregiver for his aunt Ana uncle!!!…
He stood 10 toes down for his Josie though and I was happy for the both of them!!!…
I was glad none of them lost their lives in the midst of them playing the game the YT man put them in!!!…That banker for sure got on my nerves and he walked right into his Karma!!!…I was so happy that Josie was home when Truck made it home and Corn was able to go to Africa!!!…
Corn wanted stability, and on his terms and where he would be respected!!!…He was a rolling stone, looking for love!!!…
Josie was a broken woman!!!…My heart broke for her after her fiancé was unalived by his brother & I understood why she left, because going backwards was not an option and she wanted more!!!…She was use to being used and thought that would get her where she wanted to be!!!…
Truck was a man that appeared to be clueless about personal relationships, but a provider and caregiver for his aunt Ana uncle!!!…
He stood 10 toes down for his Josie though and I was happy for the both of them!!!…
I was glad none of them lost their lives in the midst of them playing the game the YT man put them in!!!…That banker for sure got on my nerves and he walked right into his Karma!!!…I was so happy that Josie was home when Truck made it home and Corn was able to go to Africa!!!…
December 10, 2023
Only As Joan Can Do!
Joan's pen is outstanding! She leaves a lot to the imagination, but delivers it delicately. This is definitely her signature. Not a character written that doesn't evoke some type of emotion from the reader. Trust me, I'm still PO bout a chic from the Black series! lol But that is indeed the beauty of Joan Vassar. She has you captured from the beginning to the end.
Joan's pen is outstanding! She leaves a lot to the imagination, but delivers it delicately. This is definitely her signature. Not a character written that doesn't evoke some type of emotion from the reader. Trust me, I'm still PO bout a chic from the Black series! lol But that is indeed the beauty of Joan Vassar. She has you captured from the beginning to the end.
August 10, 2024
Wow, what a story!
From the first page the characters sprung to life.
I enjoyed every page of this journey the author took me on.
I never wanted it to end
I purposely put it down a few times to process what was happening.
Thought provoking and impressive storytelling!
From the first page the characters sprung to life.
I enjoyed every page of this journey the author took me on.
I never wanted it to end
I purposely put it down a few times to process what was happening.
Thought provoking and impressive storytelling!
August 21, 2024
Bonnie & Cylde?
Nah, they don't have nothing on this crew.
Nah, they don't have nothing on this crew.
May 2, 2024
I've been a fan of Joan Vassar for several years now, and the thing that always surprises me is that she can flip the script on storytelling, without losing her signature writing style: unpacking the beginnings of love and self-awareness, wrapped in historical context and cultural relevance.
Her plotlines, which seem fairly straight forward at first - always take turns that prompt the reader to think, "wait, what?!?!" Per usual, questions raised in Ignite during the characters' journeys are satisfactorily answered, and properly paced within the story. Vassar's pen is particularly good at helping the reader/listener understand why characters are motivated to behave as they do, with great character development. In this novel, we are introduced to Truck, Josie, and Corn as individuals, and some life events that shape them, but we also come to understand who they are in relationship to each other, which is a critical part of this literary work. The choices they make, their insecurities, and personal growth are explored in the dialogue and third-person narrative, with attention to detail. The need to survive is at the center of this story and Vassar thoroughly investigates the ways in which each character chooses to pursue self-preservation.
JD Jackson is a narration veteran whose incredible talent enhances an already high-quality text. His ability to realistically portray U.S. Southerners of different races, genders and ages in a foregone era is uncanny. The delivery of the dialogue and narrative showcases his acting skills, and gives the listener an interpretation that they won't easily forget.
If you love historical fiction and romance with fantastic narration - Ignite is for you. Highly recommend.
Her plotlines, which seem fairly straight forward at first - always take turns that prompt the reader to think, "wait, what?!?!" Per usual, questions raised in Ignite during the characters' journeys are satisfactorily answered, and properly paced within the story. Vassar's pen is particularly good at helping the reader/listener understand why characters are motivated to behave as they do, with great character development. In this novel, we are introduced to Truck, Josie, and Corn as individuals, and some life events that shape them, but we also come to understand who they are in relationship to each other, which is a critical part of this literary work. The choices they make, their insecurities, and personal growth are explored in the dialogue and third-person narrative, with attention to detail. The need to survive is at the center of this story and Vassar thoroughly investigates the ways in which each character chooses to pursue self-preservation.
JD Jackson is a narration veteran whose incredible talent enhances an already high-quality text. His ability to realistically portray U.S. Southerners of different races, genders and ages in a foregone era is uncanny. The delivery of the dialogue and narrative showcases his acting skills, and gives the listener an interpretation that they won't easily forget.
If you love historical fiction and romance with fantastic narration - Ignite is for you. Highly recommend.
August 20, 2024
Set in the Jim Crow south, Ignite introduces readers to Truck. A hard working man, torn between supporting his aunt and uncle and fostering a relationship with reputed immoral woman, Josephine, who just happens to have a past with his best friend Corn.
Josephine attempts to escape the faith of her tragic past but lands in the arms and bed of Truck. Can she be trusted, is she really loyal to only him?
Despite his violent and questioning past, Corn makes a tough decision by risking his life to vindicate the actions of his friend; as a result, he shows readers a surprising shift in his character.
Josephine attempts to escape the faith of her tragic past but lands in the arms and bed of Truck. Can she be trusted, is she really loyal to only him?
Despite his violent and questioning past, Corn makes a tough decision by risking his life to vindicate the actions of his friend; as a result, he shows readers a surprising shift in his character.
June 2, 2024
Joan Vassar weaves a compelling tale of love, friendship, and the moral complexities that arise in the face of adversity. Set against the backdrop of the Jim Crow South, this historical fiction masterpiece delves into the lives of three unforgettable characters: Truck, Corn, and Josephine.
###Character Summaries
**Truck**: A determined and resilient man, Truck is willing to go to great lengths to protect his aunt and uncle from a predatory lender, even if it means treading a dangerous path. His unwavering love for Josephine is constantly tested as he navigates the harsh realities of his time.
**Corn**: Truck's closest childhood friend, Corn embodies the true essence of loyalty and brotherhood. Despite their diverging choices, his devotion to Truck remains steadfast, highlighting the importance of standing by those closest to us, even in the face of moral dilemmas.
**Josephine**: The object of Truck's affection, Josephine represents the strength and resilience of women in a world that seeks to abuse and oppress them. Despite facing numerous hardships in life, her love for Truck remains a beacon of hope during her darkest moments.
### The Friendship Triangle and Moral Analysis
At the heart of "Ignite" lies the intricate friendship triangle between Truck, Corn, and Josephine. Vassar masterfully explores the depths of their bond, the sacrifices they make for one another, and the moral quandaries that arise as they navigate the treacherous waters of the Jim Crow South.
Truck's unwavering devotion to Josephine is both inspiring and heart-wrenching, as he grapples with the ethical boundaries he must cross to protect her. His actions prompt readers to contemplate the lengths they would go to safeguard their loved ones and the moral compromises they might make in the process.
Corn's loyalty to Truck is a shining example of true friendship, even when their choices diverge. Their bond is tested, but ultimately prevails, highlighting the importance of standing by those closest to us, even in the face of moral dilemmas.
Vassar's vivid storytelling transports readers to a bygone era, where the characters' moral compasses are constantly challenged by the harsh realities of their time. The novel prompts introspection on the complexities of human nature, the strength of love, and the enduring power of friendship.
Overall, "Ignite" is a captivating read that not only entertains but also provokes deep contemplation on the ethical boundaries we might cross for those we love and the sacrifices we are willing to make for true friendship.
###Character Summaries
**Truck**: A determined and resilient man, Truck is willing to go to great lengths to protect his aunt and uncle from a predatory lender, even if it means treading a dangerous path. His unwavering love for Josephine is constantly tested as he navigates the harsh realities of his time.
**Corn**: Truck's closest childhood friend, Corn embodies the true essence of loyalty and brotherhood. Despite their diverging choices, his devotion to Truck remains steadfast, highlighting the importance of standing by those closest to us, even in the face of moral dilemmas.
**Josephine**: The object of Truck's affection, Josephine represents the strength and resilience of women in a world that seeks to abuse and oppress them. Despite facing numerous hardships in life, her love for Truck remains a beacon of hope during her darkest moments.
### The Friendship Triangle and Moral Analysis
At the heart of "Ignite" lies the intricate friendship triangle between Truck, Corn, and Josephine. Vassar masterfully explores the depths of their bond, the sacrifices they make for one another, and the moral quandaries that arise as they navigate the treacherous waters of the Jim Crow South.
Truck's unwavering devotion to Josephine is both inspiring and heart-wrenching, as he grapples with the ethical boundaries he must cross to protect her. His actions prompt readers to contemplate the lengths they would go to safeguard their loved ones and the moral compromises they might make in the process.
Corn's loyalty to Truck is a shining example of true friendship, even when their choices diverge. Their bond is tested, but ultimately prevails, highlighting the importance of standing by those closest to us, even in the face of moral dilemmas.
Vassar's vivid storytelling transports readers to a bygone era, where the characters' moral compasses are constantly challenged by the harsh realities of their time. The novel prompts introspection on the complexities of human nature, the strength of love, and the enduring power of friendship.
Overall, "Ignite" is a captivating read that not only entertains but also provokes deep contemplation on the ethical boundaries we might cross for those we love and the sacrifices we are willing to make for true friendship.
December 8, 2023
❤️ Transformative ❤️
Every book Joan has written takes you on a journey! When you're done, there is immense gratitude for your ancestors. She paints such a vivid portrait of how they had to suppress their emotions and find inventive ways to survive. Then, there's always an invisible line that connects the past to the present. I enjoyed this book immensely. I found that even through much of my irritation, I still loved certain characters. Bravo, 👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾
Every book Joan has written takes you on a journey! When you're done, there is immense gratitude for your ancestors. She paints such a vivid portrait of how they had to suppress their emotions and find inventive ways to survive. Then, there's always an invisible line that connects the past to the present. I enjoyed this book immensely. I found that even through much of my irritation, I still loved certain characters. Bravo, 👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾
April 18, 2024
I’ve truly loved every sing one of Joan Vassar’s books. Like her other books, the characters are complex, vulnerable and so real that they jump of the page. I love reading books that are well written and relatable. I listened to the audiobook and Joan Vassar and JD Jackson never disappoint! I hope this book was the beginning of a series because the audiobooks for Black series had me in a chokehold for an entire year. I enjoyed them so much, I listened to the over and over.
March 5, 2025
Truck was definitely my type of man. He knew what he wanted and you would be damned if anyone thought they was going to change his mind. Josie was what he wanted, needed and decided she was enough. When his uncle tried to come against his love for her, he was soon to find out who Truck will choose.
I am fan of historical fiction, so this book was right up my alley! Love, adventure, scandal, and hope the story of Truck and Josie
I am fan of historical fiction, so this book was right up my alley! Love, adventure, scandal, and hope the story of Truck and Josie
November 27, 2023
Joan Vassar ! This book tells the story of a man called Truck who has been pushed to the edge by racism. It takes place in Atlanta Ga in 1924. He ne his friends are tired of being mistreated and disrespected and they get their revenge against those that have treated them badly. Excellent read as Joan never disappoints she just leaves you wanting more!
#cillasbookmaniacs
#cillasbookmaniacs
December 6, 2023
Ignite is an absolute page-turner! 📖 The characters are so well-developed, and the plot twists kept me hooked from start to finish. Vassar's storytelling is vivid, and the historical elements are seamlessly woven into the narrative. Five stars without a doubt – it's a must-read for anyone craving a captivating blend of romance and history!
November 27, 2023
Joan Vassar does it again
Ignite is a true page turner to the end. The characters are complex, I couldn’t really guess what would happen next or how it would wrap up. OUTSTANDING READ!
Ignite is a true page turner to the end. The characters are complex, I couldn’t really guess what would happen next or how it would wrap up. OUTSTANDING READ!
November 29, 2023
Ms. Vassar never disappoints!
This was an amazing read! Every character was so well developed. I was on pins and needles from the beginning until the end. I felt every emotion possible! Well done once again!
This was an amazing read! Every character was so well developed. I was on pins and needles from the beginning until the end. I felt every emotion possible! Well done once again!
December 2, 2023
Dangerously in love
When love friendship and dangerous romance meet is all I got to say. If you never read a black historical fiction book before, start with this here author. I promise she never disappoints.
When love friendship and dangerous romance meet is all I got to say. If you never read a black historical fiction book before, start with this here author. I promise she never disappoints.
December 3, 2023
She did it again!
Truck. Truck. Truck. What can I say! He is the man for sure. Loved his evolution and the evolution of Josie as well as Corn. Strap yourself in because you are in for a ride.
Truck. Truck. Truck. What can I say! He is the man for sure. Loved his evolution and the evolution of Josie as well as Corn. Strap yourself in because you are in for a ride.
January 22, 2024
Man oh man!!
So many twists and turns. This one takes you on a roller coaster ride that continues to the very end. And it happens so fast, you are emerged in the writing until it's over. Joan did it again!
So many twists and turns. This one takes you on a roller coaster ride that continues to the very end. And it happens so fast, you are emerged in the writing until it's over. Joan did it again!
February 25, 2024
Ignite
This was such an awesome read. So many layers to unfold. The separate relationships and how they all intertwined with Truck being in the middle of them all that made him the ignition. The relationship between him and Josie gave me Bonnie and Clyde vibes.
This was such an awesome read. So many layers to unfold. The separate relationships and how they all intertwined with Truck being in the middle of them all that made him the ignition. The relationship between him and Josie gave me Bonnie and Clyde vibes.
April 10, 2024
I could not put this book down!
I am a Joan Vassar fan for life!! This book will have you on the edge of your seat! The characters and the settings are so real that once you start reading, you can’t put it down.
I am a Joan Vassar fan for life!! This book will have you on the edge of your seat! The characters and the settings are so real that once you start reading, you can’t put it down.
April 23, 2024
I loved every book I have read by Ms. Vassar and Ignite was just as great as the others. I was on the edge of my seat for most of the book and found myself talking out loud to the characters. Ms. Vassar is a gifted writer. I am eagerly awaiting her next book.
December 3, 2023
10 out of 10!
Read
December 8, 2023Good story! There is potential for other characters to have a story too.
December 26, 2023
Unexpected read but I really enjoyed this story. I thought it would have some traumatizing stuff in it but it did not.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews