Ignition Sequence: A Nature of Desire series novel

Nature of Desire #12

by Joey W. Hill

“I didn’t come here for you to be nice to me.”

Third year medical student Les Wilder has done the unforgivable. When she flees to the door of childhood crush and arson investigator Jefferson “Brick” McGuire, she doesn’t come for comfort. With what she’s done, she doesn’t deserve to let love save her.

Brick feels differently. He’s enough of a Master to know his shattered submissive needs more than pleasure or punishment. Though he will give her both, love is the only thing that will heal the wound that threatens her soul.

Genres: BDSM, Romance, Contemporary Romance, Erotica, Erotic Romance

438 pages, Paperback

First published June 30, 2023

About the author

"BDSM Romance for the Heart & Soul"

A submissive herself, Hill brings authenticity to her intensely emotional BDSM love stories. With over fifty titles and seven series, her contemporary and paranormal romances feature everything from billionaires, bikers, SEALs, firefighters, cops and housemaids, to vampires, mermaids, witches and angels.

"Joey translates the world of BDSM with such intense power and exquisite beauty. LOVE is the most powerful element entwined through the Dominance and submission.” –Goodreads, Pink Lady

Joey is the recipient of the RT Book Reviews Career Achievement Award for Erotic Romance, and she loves to hear from her readers!

If you're on Bookbub, she'd love for you to follow her:
https://www.bookbub.com/authors/joey-...

You can also find her here:
Website: storywitch.com
Facebook: @JoeyWHillAuthor
MeWe: mewe.com/i/joeywhill
Twitter: @JoeyWHill

Reviews

[Nadine Bookaholic · Rating 5 out of 5]

I finished this book a little over a week ago, but I am undecided on how to write my review. This isn't a new situation, but it doesn't happen often. You see, this story had a new (for me) BDSM kink in it, and I was and still am mesmerized by it. Fire Kink has been glossed over as a background scene in a book or two, but I have never read a book that focused on it until now, and WOW, not only was it HOT, but it was sensual more than sexy, which surprised me. So do I concentrate on that, or do I focus on the love story of a Childhood crush that finally comes to fruition? Well, I'll continue to write, and we'll see how it goes.

𝑪𝒐𝒏𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒖𝒆 𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒎𝒚 𝒓𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒇𝒊𝒏𝒅 𝒂𝒏 𝒆𝒙𝒄𝒆𝒓𝒑𝒕 𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒆 ➡ https://bit.ly/NBReviewIS



**I have voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Readers Copy of this book for my Blog, Nadine's Obsessed with Books
You can find me here:  https://linktr.ee/NadineBookaholic

[Katie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Enjoyed this journey between an experienced Dom and a natural submissive.

They’d known each other for years-she’d had a crush on her brother’s best friend (Brick) since school days. Celeste (Les) instinctively came to him when she had a tragedy at work. He took her in and helped her. As a reader, I appreciated the rock that Brick was-reasonable, dependable, strong, safe.

Joey is a good storyteller.

[Jaycee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Classic Joey W. Hill. Stunning in its depth and insights and impeccable character study.

More stunning, is how she always manages to capture life's heartbreaks and challenges, its unfairness and fragility, and place...I'd dare to say almost all of us...right smack in the middle of its sometimes awful beauty. There are many and varied ways to get through each day, and some days we are more successful than others, particularly in coming to terms with our own foibles and limitations.

She's a weaver of life, this Joey W Hill, and always, always, its beauty is shown in the most imperfect of threads. In point of fact, its true beauty is precisely because of them.

This is an outstanding book with great characters navigating life events that can't be tied up in a neat bow. Some things don't end the way we'd like, or at all, and all we can do is be kind to ourselves.

[**Manjula ♥ Books** · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars

Joey writes long books. I generally like long books from my favourite authors. But this book endlessly detailed just 2 weeks! All Les really needed to understand was she is not God and she can’t get everything right but that doesn’t mean she is a bad doctor.
It took the entirety of the book for her to get that. The BDSM aspect was hot as usual. So if the book described a few more months or years it would have been 5 stars.

Verdict: A girl’s crush becomes a woman’s reality

P.S: Brick was a deviant gentleman. it’s exactly how it sounds.

[Di · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sexy, steamy, edge of the seat novel that makes you laugh, cry, and sigh, one that you can't put down until you've finished the last word, and then want to read all over again

[Booksy · Rating 3 out of 5]

I’ve read this author before and greatly enjoyed her works, this one less so. I think the big problem I had was that the story is told mainly through Les. Like almost entirely through Les, and I didn’t find her that interesting. Much as I have enjoyed this author’s works previously, this one dragged for me. Lots of Les’ thoughts, lots of information, almost no secondary perspective and this was a miss for me. The cover is pretty though.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Kimi5564 · Rating 5 out of 5]

I procrastinated when starting to read this story.

I never procrastinate when Joey releases a new book, I dive right in. I usually get waylaid within, but I open that Kindle as soon as possible after the book is delivered. I'm also a preview junkie, who likes to get to know the characters prior to the release of the book. The preview made me so sad, and I did not want to know the reason, but as a 59-year old woman, I had a guess. It was also intriguing to learn that the preview was not "the beginning."

Ridiculous note: The first thing I did when I opened my Kindle on Friday was to see how many times Marcus' name was in the book (83 😊). As the elderly Mrs. Mayflower stated, "Those looks may come for an angel or devil, but I don't find myself much caring as long as we get to look at him." I have no eye candy in my life... so sad

After, "the kiss," oh please, that was not a spoiler, you know it always starts with a kiss 😁 their banter is absolutely precious, the kiss didn't spoil the friendship they already had, it made it MORE...

OK, it's Monday, I'm finished, and I'm having trouble reconciling this story. Les has always been in the background, even with Rory and Daralyn's story. Don't get me wrong, the story was beautiful, and I think an "Emotion 101" booklet can be created and copyrighted for medical school students from the contents, but I want more! Sorry, Joey, it's your own fault!! We never want your stories to end!!! But, yes, I could still be reading this story a week later, if it had continued - Cantrips 3, anyone???

I love the depth of love that Joey can put down on paper. Her innate ability to speak to a reader's heart and soul is incredible:
"I hold the upper hand because you give that to me. I respond to your desire. What you need and want with the right match between Dom and sub, that's how it works." It hit me, if all couples put in the amount of care and affection that these couples have for each other, there would be very little divorce. It's jealous worthy! I know a few couples who have been together since they were 13-15ish; it's a wild concept for me. Reading the her-side/his-side views of the poem/hallway mirror scene a decade+ earlier was so poignant, "When I read those lines, I saw the look in your eyes. It was sort of timeless. As if the woman you'd be was there, and the man I was going to be recognized it. Just a flash, and we were back to being kids again." To have the love and patience to wait a decade+ for your heart to grow up ... wow

If you are married or in a relationship, here is some of the best advice for all of us Type A+ personalities, "So if you do ask a man to do something you can do, let it be because you want to give him the opportunity to do something for and with you. That's pretty important to men who love their women." I should have this tattooed on my palm for every single time my husband "butts-in," I mean wants to love and honor me. I can look at my palm, take a deep breath, and hand him whatever knife or tool currently in my hand...with a genuine smile. BUT ALWAYS REMEMBER, "Only a woman who means something to a man can drive him insane."
More marriage advice, "But that's another good thing about having a man who loves you. He reminds you of your beauty, in the right ways."

If you start reading Joey Hill's "Nature of Desire" with "Ignition Sequence," plan to read it again - After you start the entire series from the beginning. Trust me, you'll want to when you meet some of the incredible characters we fans have come to know and love. Once you're done with that series, read everything else she has written. If you love paranormal romance, absolutely NOTHING compares to her "Vampire Queen" series ... NOTHING!!

So, "put some Zen up your ass, sister," and read this book 😘

[Michelle Frater · Rating 4 out of 5]

Joey has done it again—delivering a story that caught me completely off guard, not just with its emotional depth, but with its daring, nuanced portrayal of a D/s relationship. It wasn’t the quality of the writing that surprised me (I’ve come to expect that from Joey), but rather the way this book reframes dominance and submission as something profoundly healing. This isn't just about kink, this is about connection, trust, and a kind of emotional therapy that only works when both people are fully invested. Les is a woman with her future laid out. Studying to become a doctor, she has no time for relationships, and certainly no room for vulnerability. But beneath her composed exterior lies a submissive nature she’s barely acknowledged, except in the privacy of her fantasies, which have frequently featured one particular man: Jefferson “Brick” McQuire. When tragedy strikes and Les finds herself unraveling, it’s Brick—her childhood crush—who steps in. I absolutely loved how Brick didn’t hesitate. He offered her strength without smothering her, giving her space to grieve but never letting her fall too far. His steady presence and quiet dominance felt like a lifeline. And because he’d already been honest with her about his intentions, he was able to gently guide her into a world she never knew she needed. Brick’s approach to their dynamic was tender, respectful, and deeply affirming. He saw the submissive in her before she ever saw it in herself, and he nurtured it with care. Every step of the way, he made sure she was ready—pushing her boundaries only when she felt safe enough to grow. The result was something beautiful: a woman discovering a hidden part of herself that brought her comfort, safety, and even joy. And yes, there’s a certain poetic irony in a former firefighter (now arson investigator) having a fire kink—but somehow it fits perfectly. That heat, both literal and emotional, seeped right into Les’s soul, offering warmth when she needed it most. While the central thread is undeniably the evolving relationship between Les and Brick, the story is also a poignant exploration of grief, trauma, and the quiet courage it takes to ask for help. As someone pursuing a career in medicine, Les’s emotional fallout after loss is all too real—and all too rarely addressed in fiction. Joey handles it with compassion and insight. In the end, this is a powerful, passionate love story wrapped in the most unexpected layers. It’s about control, surrender, healing, and trust—and it’s the characters, with all their vulnerability and strength, who will keep you hooked from the first page to the last.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[DebbieReadsBooks · Rating 4 out of 5]

Independent reviewer for BookSirens, I was gifted my copy of this book.

Tis is book 12 in the Nature of Desire series, and I have read all but book 11. I will now go back and read that, mostly because of what's said here about Rory and Daralyn.

Les is Thomas and Rory's sister. Thomas has book 6, Rough Canvas and Rory has book 11, In His Arms. It's been a long, LONG time since I read any books in this series, so I do not recall meeting Les, nor Brick, who is one of the brother's best friend, but I was never clear which one! I'm not saying they don't pop up, just I don't recall. And as such, I think can be read as a stand alone.

I enjoyed this, greatly. It shows off, perfectly, Hill's attention to detail on whichever topic she is writing about. Here it is what happens when someone dies after being attended to by a student doctor, and what happens after a fire. Les is the third year student doctor and Brick is an arson investigator.

But Brick and Les have history. Brick has wanted Les since she was 14 years old, and he waited. He waited and honed his skills, until Les came to him, after something happened at work, that she felt she couldn't deal with. And Brick showed her what she needed more than anything, was Brick.

It takes place over a short space of time, only a week or two, but it packs a powerful punch on the emotional level, and this is what I loved the most. Les' mind is a mess, given what happened and she needs to get out of her head, but Brick won't let her fully let go, til he knows what happened. Then there is Brick's arson investigation. I could see that turning out how it did, I think at the same point Brick saw something was off.

Given as Brick is an arson investigator, his kink is fire. Now, I've not read anything with fire play in before, and I was intrigued. Again, it shows Hill's attention to detail, in Brick's prep: before and after play. I loved the explanations, from both Brick and Les, about what they were feeling when they played with fire. It really was all consuming.

I found the smexy times, fire play aside, a little on the cooler side for Hill but I think it made the book a better read for that. Emotionally, especially for Les, the level is high.

It's not an easy read, given what happened to Les, but one I really enjoyed. I just forgot that Hill doesn't write short books, and I started this at bedtime! I was so not functioning the next day!

4 very VERY good stars

*same worded review will appear elsewhere

[TinaMarie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Les Wilder is a 3rd year med student. She's a driven, overachiever, determined to do everything right and bring it all home to give back to her family and their small-town community. But she's also full of anxiety and stress, afraid of making a mistake. She loved her brother's best friend forever but it was only a dream, to star in her fantasies.

Jefferson 'Brick' McGuire is an Arson Investigator. He is a protector with a poet's soul. Brick knew who he wanted as a partner in his life and had the patience to wait for her.

When a terrible tragedy sends Les running to Brick's door, she only wants him to punish her for her failures, he wants to punish her for pleasure but first has to help her through this difficult emotional time.

Les has had submissive fantasies for years but only truly experiences it when Brick takes her under his protective wing. He will protect her heart and support her with a Master's guiding and sometimes punishing hand, while helping her heal past traumas that are deeply affecting her still today.

I loved how supportive Brick was without trying to lead her down one choice or the other. The heat from these two isn't just from Fire Play, their connection is so deep, I felt all the emotional turmoil and sensual heat right along with them. She had me looking for some ice to put out my own heat and hushing myself from the giddy giggling.

Extra bonus we got to see the whole loving family: Marcus and Thomas, Rory and Daralyn and their mother Elaine. I loved seeing these characters again and how supportive they were in their own way for Les. I may have to re-read their stories again.

Hill brings you into her world and you don't ever want to leave. This book took me longer to read because after certain scenes I just wanted to hold on to the feelings evoked and I would put it down to just savor what I just experienced. Another great read by Joey W. Hill.

For more of my reviews follow my blog at https://wyldheartreads.wordpress.com/

[Melanie Marnell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Honestly, I think Joey W Hill has few equals when it comes to BDSM romance. While her stories are powerful in and of themselves, it's the depth and strength of her characters that will draw you in and keep you captivated. Who wouldn't want an Alpha male who recites poetry as he rocks your world? There's a lot going on in Ignition Sequence with lots of deep emotions at play, some danger, a few very stressful events and lots of spicy sizzle. As part of the story a lot of wonderful words of wisdom and insight that apply not only to the plot but to many, many everyday situations. I was touched by just how much they resonated with me.

Les Wilder is shaken to her core because of her first patient death. Subsequently she's having a crisis of conscience and faith in her abilities as well as her suitability to be a doctor. She turns to the man that she's probably loved since middle school. Les has always known what path she'd take in life. She's driven, a perfectionist and always the one in control. Until she wasn't. Brick McGuire---not going to lie, I fell just a little bit, okay a whole lot, in love with this man. He's accomplished; firefighter and arson investigator, intelligent, Alpha, romantic and a Dom to his core. He's been biding his time to make Les his and the time is now. He's gives her the space to grieve yet doesn't let her wallow in her grief. He unlocks the submissive inside her that he's seen for years. He surrounds her with love and protects her in even the most dramatic moments. He, along with her family, helps her to make the decision about her future in her own time frame. She knows they all will be there for her no matter the outcome. Especially Brick.

[Kitt Crescendo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Healing Fire

Gosh, where to start on why this book is so awesome…

Les is a third year medical student who finds her life and future medical career derailed by one split second decision. Filled with anguish and unable to think straight she finds herself running to Brick, her brother’s best friend, and an arson investigator.

She’d always harbored feelings for him and Brick had always been good to her, but with their age difference she figured it was wishful thinking…..until….

Just before her life fell apart, there had been a moment when she thought maybe …

But then her life imploded and she was lost. He was the only one who seemed able to reach her.

This story had everything. Depth, tears, heart, family, struggle, facing your own imperfections, passion, healing, and most of all, love!

Les is a Type A personality faced with her own failures and mortality, forced to face her worst fears and either finding a way to cope and learn, or maybe forced to find a new life direction. She’s at her weakest and needs to find her strength.

But there’s no way Brick will let her do it alone. No man or woman is an island. As a fire fighter and arson investigator he knows the importance of having strong people at your back who will guide you to the strongest, best version of yourself and help you learn to stand on your own.

This book was sexy as heck with a BDSM storyline, had fireplay scenes that could melt my iPad, and two perfectly imperfect characters that you could relate to and wanted to see succeed.

This book did it for me in a big way and I absolutely recommend it. Of course, I’d expect nothing less from Joey W. Hill.

[dee · Rating 4 out of 5]

First time reader of this author. BDSM - D/s dynamics is like a main character in this book as opposed to part of the characters lives, in my opinion. Pros: The book did seem to convey consent, respect and care in their D/s roles throughout the book as far as the interactions of the 2 MCs. This is definitely an erotic romance novel and not just dirty smut sex😊. I appreciate the attention to consent because some authors write in a way that "coerced" consent/rape is acceptable because kink is involved. You also get familiar mostly with Les - FMC, her family/friend circle. I loved Brick-MMC even though we didnt get as much about him as her/her perspective.

Cons: I am really not a fan of controversial topics in "get away" books that I read for fun because it can turn some readers off quickly (ex: religion, sexuality journeys related to religion, etc). While I love a good long book & understood the magnitude of Les's life crisis, I started to get bored and annoyed with how long the book drug on with that. I wanted more excitement… unexpected plot twists, antagonists, something to spice it up a bit to get more to get that 5 star reading experience.

Overall, if you are into BDSM, D/s dynamics, long reacquainted romance with hot sex and a hot Dom that is loving, caring and intensely devoted to his sub… this book is for you!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[ltfrom bc · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a roller coaster of emotions this book was. I laughed and I cried. I cannot imagine the struggle Les was going thru after a mistake. You can only put emotions such she was experiencing down on paper to an extent. Emotions have nuances that do not always translate onto the pages of a book. The author did an amazingly great job of trying to do that. She did such a good job of it because I needed the tissue box close by. My heart was breaking for Les. I am so glad she has Brick to help her with all of it. Thankfully Brick had already stated his intentions towards her earlier. Les went to him to him to be her judge, jury and executioner so to speak. She felt she had to pay for her actions. Brick, a Dom saw thru that. What she really needed was a safe harbor. He would be there to help heal her, help her deal with her guilt and be there to pick up the pieces…because that is what a Dom does when he cares deeply for his broken submissive. As they work thru the minefield that is currently filling her mind, they also find that the attraction to each other is strong. Brick guides her thru her trauma and the lifestyle he knows they both want - and need.

Such an emotional story. Get your tissue box out - you will need it.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Detailed, emotional, and scorching are just a few of the words that come to mind in regards to this story. Let me start by saying fire play has been referenced in passing in other books I have read but never really explained. The precise, detailed description in this book is kind of fascinating. It plays a large part in this story because it is the kink of choice for Brick, arson investigator by trade, Dominant, and leading man of this story.

Les is a third year medical student, little sister to Brick's best friend, Rory. Brick, her secret crush since childhood, surprises her by revealing his interest in her and his determination to explore a relationship, romantic as well as Dom and submissive but before they even have a second date, a tragedy sends Les running into Brick's arms, sensing he is the one person who can give her what she needs.

Les and Brick are both strong characters and their deep connection is crystal clear in their varied roles as friends, lovers, and Dom and sub. I love their passion and caring for each other and how they perfectly they fit together. Les's emotional journey is gradual and believable thanks to the great writing of Joey W. Hill. I enjoyed this book a lot.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Chris · Rating 4 out of 5]

Every book I've read from Joey W Hill has been a SAGA, and Ignition Sequence was no different.

Things about this story I loved:
* Joey has a gift for writing intense characters and their relationships
* The BDSM scenes, as always, are top tier!
* No third act break up 🎉
* Cameos of characters from previous books. 😍
* Brick! Super swoony, protective, and decribed as "wide as a billboard." I love me a big man.

Things that didn't work for me, but might for you:
* This story had a lot of religious references. Nothing really affected the plot, but as an agnostic with some religious trauma, I skimmed over those parts.
* This book is looooong. It's delicious, but be prepared to settle in. I hate to fall asleep in the middle of a book, but I couldn't binge this in one day. YMMV.

I love the worlds JWH has created and count some of her older books (Natural Law, I'm looking at you! IYKYK) among my favorites. Ignition Sequence won't go down on my all time favorites list, but it was very well written, sexy, and enjoyable.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Silke · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ignition Sequence is the 12th book in the Nature of Desire series, but can be read and vastly enjoyed as a stand-alone. I know, because it is the 1st book by this author that I have read, but will certainly not be my last! A long book, for all it covers just 2 weeks in the lives of Les and Brick, it packs of wallop and put me through an emotional wringer. I couldn't put in down and literally spent a day immersed in their world of danger, trauma, family ties, attraction and developing D/s relationship. There is more than one instance of heartbreaking sorrow and 'why is this happening', so this is not an easy read, but IMO a very realistic portrayal of life for doctors and first responders. There are a number of steamy sexy times, both in and out of the BDSM club setting, with a focus on fire play. But the underlying note to everythng is love, with a really beautiful and promising HFN ending. That's my only niggle: I would have loved an epilogue showing them a few years down the road. Hopefully, we'll get to meet up with them in future books!
I was fortunate to have received a free copy through Booksirens and am leaving this review voluntarily and honestly.

[ABartenderWithABookProblem · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh these two, I felt this story deeply. Such an in depth and well developed back story. Brick is a Dom in every sense of the word, and I was ready to kneel for him myself. The observations, the care, the pushing boundaries for Les’ own good and when it’s necessary. Loved this.

This was my first read by Joey W. Hill, but certainly won’t be my last. You can tell her experience in the lifestyle goes beyond writing about it and I love that she touches on various aspects of the lifestyle. Fire play was a new one for me and I was able to learn a lot and better understood the allure behind it.

Excited to continue reading in A Nature of Desire Series as well as explore some of her others. The world building in this series seems top notch. While Ignition Sequence is a later book in the series, I don't feel like I missed out or was lost from not starting from book 1. If anything it made me more motivated to want to go back and read from the beginning just so I could read the others' stories as well. I was very appreciative to get a copy of this book and be introduced into the world of JWH.

[Oleta Blaylock · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am lost, lost I tell you. I loved this book so much. I need a Brick in my life or a Marcus. I love this series and I hope this isn't the last book in the Nature of Desire series. I have become so invested in this series. I have loved all of them.

So why is this book so great Brick. Who doesn't love a fireman. Brick is so good with Les Wilder. He knows what she needs to build her confidence after the incident in the emergency room. He takes over and gives her back her confidence and determination. The story shows us that we need to be more patient with medical personnel. There are so many things that can go wrong. No one has the same chemical make up. There are so many factors that make our DNA I don't envy doctors trying to find the right treatment for each person.

I love catching up with the Wilder family. They have all found the person that will completes them. I will give all the accolades possible for the writing throughout the series to Ms. Hill. Few have the storytelling skills that Ms. Hill has. She always delivers the best story. I envy her imagination.

[Lola · Rating 5 out of 5]

i was unfamiliar with this author until this book. I adore the way she does a deep character dive leaving the reader seriously engaged and emotionally involved with the outcome of 2 lives.

When Celeste is reunited with her old childhood crush Jefferson - aka Brick - after a shocking event in her professional life, the floodgates of their attraction are wide open.

This is a story of a Dominant (Brick) and a seemingly reluctant submissive - Celeste, but it is essentially a romance at its core. A tale of mutual need and redemption.

The beauty of their connection is stunning and the dialogue so real and sympathetic to their dynamic. I know these characters have appeared in previous books and I look forward to exploring them.

The communication between the two is a masterclass for anyone in a relationship. This is how relationships should be. It is hypnotic, hot and emotional and I loved it.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another kick a$$, amazing book by Joey Hill. Her book always pull out the emotion and dive deep. Her book are also some of the few that hit me to the point that I am in tears and those who know me know that is pretty hard to do. My hear broke for Les. The turmoil she went through during her shift in the ER. The questioning of herself and her reasoning for being a doctor. Could she really do this? Have someone's life in her hands. Brick is there to help her get out of her head. To stop thinking. To just feel.
Brick has wanted Les for years, just waiting until the right time. Well... that time is now. He gives her what she needs and more. Helps her to not only discover who she is but also that she is worthy of love and happiness. Yes there is an HEA but he journey there. OMFG it gripped my heart!

[BookAddict ✒ La Crimson Femme · Rating 5 out of 5]

I seem to be out of town every time I am reading an ARC for Ms. Hill. This one, I read in several different pieces before I read the entire story. I can definitely say that after reading from beginning to end, I'm moved. What I enjoy about Ms. Hill's books are the emotions she pulls from a reader. This is more than a romance. This is more than delicious Kinky scenes. We learn about the ups and downs of real life professions and how they impact a person.

To read the rest of my review, click on the image below to see it on my website

* I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.

[K’s bookshelf · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have had friends recommend Joey’s books recently and I was extremely excited when the opportunity to read her story on the relationship between Les and Brick. I was not disappointed in the slightest. Joey has a beautiful way of submersing you into her character’s story feeling their emotions and investing you into their outcome. The growth/healing Les goes through with Brick’s love and guidance was beautiful and heartfelt. I am extremely excited to go and read the rest of the series along with her other books. If you enjoy depth to your characters and an author who pays attention to all details I highly recommend reading Joey’s work. You will not be disappointed!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Coccibelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is a coming of age, emotional journey, slow burn romance with the older brothers' best friend.

What I liked about this book:
- intriguing characters and jobs. Arson investigator is not common and it was the first time I read about fire kink.
-multiple cameos from previous book
-the couple was sweet together and complement each others
- Celeste had a good sense of humor, her thoughts made me smile

Here are some points I liked less:
-The entire story developed around how Celeste will overcome her emotional turmoil. However, in this book there are at least 2 traumatic events and no counseling or psychological help was mentioned. For me, Celeste was unloading all of her emotions on Brick and that was not fair to him. I am glad it worked out for them, but it doesn't seem like a sustainable solutions to deal with traumas.
-The story dragged a little bit too much for me.

[Gloria Withalm · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hill, Joey W. (2023). Ignition Sequence (Nature of Desire. 12).

Little River SC: Story Witch Press & Kindle edition

ISBN print 978-1-951544-26-3 & ISBN digital 978-1-951544-25-6

Review contains SPOILERS

Just read the last pages of the Joey’s latest book in the “Nature of Desire” series. It is wonderful, loved every single line of it.

Ignition Sequence (as always, the title is a quote from the book) tells the story of Celeste “Les” Joy Wilder and Jefferson “Brick” McGuire, how they find each other after many years of teenage crush. Both characters are well-known to readers of the series, Les, who studies medicine, is the sister of Thomas (the painter, married to Marcus, his husband, Dom, and art dealer) and Rory, who finally found his strength again after an accident forced him to use a wheelchair (in the preceding book #11, In His Arms, he realized that he’s a natural Dominant and that he’s in love with Daralyn who by now is also his wife). We also met Brick in #11 – he started as a firefighter and is now an arson investigator. Early in the book, he visits Les, takes her out for dinner, and kisses her. Les had a crush on her brother’s friend since middle school and keeps fantasizing about him, and not in a purely vanilla way…

When she loses a patient, a child, early in her ER rotation, she drives to Brick to seek his help. Brick already had a suspicion that Les is a submissive, at the latest since Rory’s wedding. And, indeed, in these first minutes at his place, she kneels at his feet.

His best friend’s little sister being the end of his rainbow hadn’t made any sense. He could have a hell of a satisfying relationships with a woman like Tish. But his heart always pointed him back to one serious, lovely young woman who’s needs were more complicated than most suspected.

 That suspicion had been confirmed at Rory’s wedding a few months back. Even in their far too few interactions there, Les had responded to him in a way he recognized.

 She had the heart, mind and soul of a submissive.

 She hadn’t actively pursued it, he was almost sure of that, and she might not even be aware of it herself, but everything about her broadcast it to him. The vibes were so strong he’s had to restrain himself from finding more blatant ways to test it, then and there. [Brick thinks about Les; Hill 2023: 48–49]

[Celeste] took one step back and sank to her knees.
She did it with a deliberate slowness, directed by something that had the force of a conscious decision, though she gave no words to it in her head. This was what she needed to do, for reasons she couldn’t articulate but hoped he understood. That same subconscious compulsion said he would. [Hill 2023: 57]

However, despite her feelings for Brick and her deep interest in D/s, she’s still reluctant, moreover she has first to deal with her problems that brought her to Brick.

“It’s been a stressful week. Exams pending, discovering this whole Dominant and submissive thing, and…”

 “I don’t think ‘discovering’ is accurate. You know a little more than that about it. Even if you haven’t pursued it actively.” His eyes got a sharper gleam. “Have you?”

 She raised her chin. “I’m not a submissive person.”

 “That answers the question.” He nodded, as to himself. “You’re a submissive. It’s an orientation, not an adjective. Sometimes just sexual, and sometimes far deeper than sexual. People outside the lifestyle mix up the distinction. Same goes for a sexual Dominant. While there might be romance book Doms who are powerful billionaires, a sexual Dominant can be anything, including a secretary or construction worker.”

 “Or a firefighter.”

 “Or a firefighter. […]” [Les & Brick; Hill 2023: 92]

Already before she acknowledges him as her Master, Brick acts the Dom he is, being with her, helping her, but not coddling her (even punishing her in the pain/pleasure way). She stays with him at his house, he accompanies her to the hearing and then takes her to her family.

The plot structure of this book is a bit different, it’s more or less only Les who has to come to terms with her life – trust herself enough to continue her studies to become a doctor, trust Brick enough to become his sub and share their life. Yes, there’s a violent attack and a fire, and both exterior events somehow reinforce the strong personality of Les, and, in the end, she’ll return to the hospital.
Once again, Joey W. Hill presents us with a romance whose main characters happen to be a Dom and a sub, but being what they are adds a deeper quality to the romance, and how they have to find their way into a relationship – both as lovers, and as Dom&sub, a relationship based deeply on trust and communication.
Brick and Les join her family for Easter, her mom Elaine, Rory and Daralyn are of course at home, but also Thomas and Marcus came for the holidays. Only Julie and Des (we also know them from a previous book, Worth the Wait #9) could not come. However, they two couples briefly meet at the very end when Brick takes her to Julie’s theater to spend a few hours together before they have to return to their respective professional lives. And whoever loves to read about fire play (like I do), gets here the fourth passage on fire play, an experienced firefighter-Dom who loves fire play with his sub.

Her back felt like it was on fire. The mental image only pushed her closer to release. Her Master could put flame to her flesh. He could set her on fire in so many ways… [Hill 2023: 421]

[Tones · Rating 5 out of 5]

I genuinely don’t know why I bother reading any BDSM written by other authors. Because no one even comes close to Ms. Hill’s talent of portraying the spirituality and depth of trust and feeling in a D/s relationship. I’ve loved all of the books in this series related to Les’ family (Thomas’, Rory’s and maybe even Julie’s) and this is no exception.

The timeline was a bit extreme but more acceptable since Les has mooned over Brick for years and it turns out that Brick was also waiting for both of them to mature since Les was his end game.

Fireplay was deeply explored here and while it’s not my kink of choice, it was beautifully described and appreciated.

[Miaowwow · Rating 4 out of 5]

There’s a lot going on in this book it makes for an intriguing read.

Who doesn’t want a Jefferson “Brick” McGuire in their life, ladies, a tall, built, handsome fireman and a caring Dom. Plenty of spice, I just melted for him ;-) The FMC Les Wilder was a bit too angsty for me at times or maybe that was the storyline. Not always an easy read.

This is part of the A Nature of Desires Series of stories with interconnected characters running through.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. I haven’t read any other books by this author but would certainly be open to trying more of her work.

[Tammi · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a container. It holds you together while you feel all the feelings, but allows you to safely let go sometimes. Because it hurts, and it is okay to feel like that. I loved that there are no creepy plottwists, but a build in character- and relationshipdevelopment. I couldn't put it away! I just hated for this book to finish. And now I have to read about the other Wilder siblings as well.

I did not purchase this book, but received an advance reader copy for free. And I am honored to leave this review, because it really was a beautiful, emotional, hot book.

[Gab · Rating 5 out of 5]

I know, I know!
I'm repeating myself.
But what can you do when a writer continuously produces books that do not fit into a rigid rating system.
No matter the story Ms. Hill tells, the research, the heart and guts she packs into each and every one, her innate understanding of the human "condition", puts it in a category only few authors reach.
And this one is no exception.
As always, riveting reading - heart and gut wrenching - and at the end you happily pick yourself up, gather your wits about you, and wait for the next book!
Impatiently!!!

[Rene' Hurt · Rating 5 out of 5]

Her fire master

What a intense book! Joey never fails to keep you on your toes and you never want to stop reading. So, when Les experience a terrible incident at school she drove to the one person whom she knew would take care of her. Brick was not expecting to see Les at his doorstep. Oh man what a book this is! It has intense and nail bitting moments. There was times I wanted to cry for the emotions I felt reading their story. We get to hear from Marcus, Thomas, Rory , Daralyn and Elaine. Believe me this book is fire! RUN and get this book.