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Kick at the Darkness #3
Defy the Future
To protect their pack, they must risk everything.
Adam and Parker are finally safe.
As safe as they can be in a world where the zombie-like infected still roam the night. With other survivors, they've built a community-a pack.
Until that peace is shattered.
How far will Adam and Parker go for family—and each other?
Defy the Future is a steamy gay romance from Keira Andrews featuring werewolves, found family, and of course a happy ending.
Contains mature themes.
Adam and Parker are finally safe.
As safe as they can be in a world where the zombie-like infected still roam the night. With other survivors, they've built a community-a pack.
Until that peace is shattered.
How far will Adam and Parker go for family—and each other?
Defy the Future is a steamy gay romance from Keira Andrews featuring werewolves, found family, and of course a happy ending.
Contains mature themes.
9 pages, Audiobook
First published January 11, 2024
77 people are currently reading
882 people want to read
About the author
Keira Andrews
65 books3,052 followersKeira aims for the perfect mix of character, plot, and heat in her M/M romances. She writes everything from swashbuckling pirates to heartwarming holiday escapism. Her fave tropes are enemies to lovers, age gaps, forced proximity, and passionate virgins. Although she loves delicious angst along the way, Keira guarantees happy endings!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 248 reviews
March 28, 2024
4.5 Stars
It really is true that good things come to those who wait, because this HIGHLY ANTICIPATED sequel/trilogy-closer delivered on every level, when it comes to the things I craved from Parker and Adam’s final story.
It may have been eight years between books, but Andrews seemed to effortlessly take us back into this post-apocalyptic world like no time had passed at all, with a pitch perfect continuation in tone, characterisations and storytelling that was just as gripping and compulsive to read as its two preludes.
I don’t want to spoil the plot, but there’s a little time jump between books—which I actually appreciated—and such a natural and believable impetus that forces our favourite human and werewolf lovers, Parker and Adam, out into the big scary world once again, for another high-stakes adventure that leads to some personal surprises for Parker and some werewolf-y revelations for Adam.
The pacing was, once again, spot on, with a story that was exciting, romantic, and ultimately very satisfying for me as a long-time reader and absolute fangirl of this series. I especially appreciated how Andrews delivered on her promise of a HEA for Parker and Adam (or really, the best possible HFN they could get, considering the world they live in), all while expanding her zombie-infested world with new, challenging characters, who may well serve as a stepping stone into further in-universe stories for Andrews to explore. (Which, naturally, I’m 110% here for.)
My heart feels happy today, having finally been able to see these much-beloved characters through to their very satisfying conclusion. It’s been a long-time coming, but I honestly feel so content with this story and where the characters were left—thriving and still so absolutely head-over-heels in love with one another and the life they’ve built with their found family along the way. Seriously, I have not a single complaint and I'm stoked because of it.
Then, now and forever, Parker and Adam are an all-time favourite M/M couple of mine. I'm sure I'll continue to re-read and enjoy this series for many, many years to come, and that's such a special thing.
Kick at the Darkness Series
Book 1 - Kick at the Darkness (5 Stars)
Book 2 - Fight the Tide (4 Stars)
Book 3 - Defy the Future (4.5 Stars)
It really is true that good things come to those who wait, because this HIGHLY ANTICIPATED sequel/trilogy-closer delivered on every level, when it comes to the things I craved from Parker and Adam’s final story.
It may have been eight years between books, but Andrews seemed to effortlessly take us back into this post-apocalyptic world like no time had passed at all, with a pitch perfect continuation in tone, characterisations and storytelling that was just as gripping and compulsive to read as its two preludes.
I don’t want to spoil the plot, but there’s a little time jump between books—which I actually appreciated—and such a natural and believable impetus that forces our favourite human and werewolf lovers, Parker and Adam, out into the big scary world once again, for another high-stakes adventure that leads to some personal surprises for Parker and some werewolf-y revelations for Adam.
The pacing was, once again, spot on, with a story that was exciting, romantic, and ultimately very satisfying for me as a long-time reader and absolute fangirl of this series. I especially appreciated how Andrews delivered on her promise of a HEA for Parker and Adam (or really, the best possible HFN they could get, considering the world they live in), all while expanding her zombie-infested world with new, challenging characters, who may well serve as a stepping stone into further in-universe stories for Andrews to explore. (Which, naturally, I’m 110% here for.)
My heart feels happy today, having finally been able to see these much-beloved characters through to their very satisfying conclusion. It’s been a long-time coming, but I honestly feel so content with this story and where the characters were left—thriving and still so absolutely head-over-heels in love with one another and the life they’ve built with their found family along the way. Seriously, I have not a single complaint and I'm stoked because of it.
Then, now and forever, Parker and Adam are an all-time favourite M/M couple of mine. I'm sure I'll continue to re-read and enjoy this series for many, many years to come, and that's such a special thing.
Kick at the Darkness Series
Book 1 - Kick at the Darkness (5 Stars)
Book 2 - Fight the Tide (4 Stars)
Book 3 - Defy the Future (4.5 Stars)
Read
December 14, 2023It feels incredible to complete this book.
I'd initially planned on publishing book three in 2017 (!), and that was somehow six years ago (!!!). Then I vowed to write book three in 2020, but the pandemic hit. I just didn't have the emotional resources to immerse myself in a dystopian virus-affected world.
I was determined this year to finally give Adam and Parker the HEA they deserve, showing there's always love and light even in the darkest world.
PRE-ORDER: https://readerlinks.com/l/3878587
I'd initially planned on publishing book three in 2017 (!), and that was somehow six years ago (!!!). Then I vowed to write book three in 2020, but the pandemic hit. I just didn't have the emotional resources to immerse myself in a dystopian virus-affected world.
I was determined this year to finally give Adam and Parker the HEA they deserve, showing there's always love and light even in the darkest world.
PRE-ORDER: https://readerlinks.com/l/3878587
August 20, 2024
**Spoilers ahead**
I'm going to pretend I didn't read this series so I can keep reading my silly lil KA books in peace.
I'm not the type of person to push through a series that i'm not enjoying, but people love this one so much, so I kept on, because I had faith in Kiera bringing it home strong in book 3 buuuuuuut...
How is it possible to have ALL of the most coolest storylines in one book...
- Gay romance 🌈
- Zombie outbreaks 🧟
- End of the world apocolypse vibes 🌎
- Werewolf shifters 🐺
AND MAKE THEM SO FUCKING BORING??? LITERALLY NOTHING HAPPENS IN THIS BOOK UNTIL 91%!!!!!!!!!!
Want to know why the Zombie apocalypse started?
Too bad, it's gonna be left unanswered.
Want to know how the Zombie apocalypse ended?
Too bad, it's gonna be left unanswered.
Want to know about the group who may have caused the Zombie apocalypse?
Too bad, we are gonna talk about them for 3 books but make them 100% irrelevant, by NOT EVEN HAVING THEM APPEAR IN ANY OF THE BOOKS.
Want to know what happened to the doctor/experiments in book 1, that caused parker to become a paranoid ptsd-riddled crazy paranoid person?
Too bad, we aren't even gonna bother circling back to that, and just make that whole part irrelevant.
Want zombies in a zombie book??
Too bad, you can have ONE zombie scene. ONE.
Want a satisfying goodbye to the main side character of book 3?
Too bad, he's getting a "he left in the night" never to be seen again kinda ending.
Want the bad guy to be punished for his crimes?
Too bad, we are just going to send him on his way with supplies.
Want sexy smut times?
Too bad, you’re getting a round of fisting, the word “jizz” AND A WEIRD SCENE WHERE YOU FIND OUT SOME GRANNY KNITS FUCKING BALL GAGS FOR SEX BECAUSE ✨wolf hearing✨. CREEPY BUT OKAY GRANNY 🤢.
Nothing in this book felt important.
All the side characters felt inserted for plot reasons, but could have all died and it wouldn't have mattered.
The 'mystery' from the beginning of book 3.... is never explained.
And the relationship between Adam/Parker didn't even cover the plot holes/dumb parts of this series.
To be fair, I can't fucking unsee the whole arm up Adam's his asshole from book 2.
Parker is ALWAYS paranoid and untrusting of people and yet.....
every time someone was being suss, the convo would be:
Parker: they are so suspicious.
someone: no they aren't.
Parker: You're right. Let's move on.
WOT???????????
His trust/paranoia/ptsd/anxiety was NEVER CONSISTENT, and that drove me insane.
1 star because I read the book and had to rate it, and 1 star for my lovely buddy reader Sarah I COULD NOT HAVE MADE IT THROUGH WITHOUT YOU hahahahhaha 💖💖💖💖💖💖💖
I'm going to pretend I didn't read this series so I can keep reading my silly lil KA books in peace.
I'm not the type of person to push through a series that i'm not enjoying, but people love this one so much, so I kept on, because I had faith in Kiera bringing it home strong in book 3 buuuuuuut...
How is it possible to have ALL of the most coolest storylines in one book...
- Gay romance 🌈
- Zombie outbreaks 🧟
- End of the world apocolypse vibes 🌎
- Werewolf shifters 🐺
AND MAKE THEM SO FUCKING BORING??? LITERALLY NOTHING HAPPENS IN THIS BOOK UNTIL 91%!!!!!!!!!!
Want to know why the Zombie apocalypse started?
Too bad, it's gonna be left unanswered.
Want to know how the Zombie apocalypse ended?
Too bad, it's gonna be left unanswered.
Want to know about the group who may have caused the Zombie apocalypse?
Too bad, we are gonna talk about them for 3 books but make them 100% irrelevant, by NOT EVEN HAVING THEM APPEAR IN ANY OF THE BOOKS.
Want to know what happened to the doctor/experiments in book 1, that caused parker to become a paranoid ptsd-riddled crazy paranoid person?
Too bad, we aren't even gonna bother circling back to that, and just make that whole part irrelevant.
Want zombies in a zombie book??
Too bad, you can have ONE zombie scene. ONE.
Want a satisfying goodbye to the main side character of book 3?
Too bad, he's getting a "he left in the night" never to be seen again kinda ending.
Want the bad guy to be punished for his crimes?
Too bad, we are just going to send him on his way with supplies.
Want sexy smut times?
Too bad, you’re getting a round of fisting, the word “jizz” AND A WEIRD SCENE WHERE YOU FIND OUT SOME GRANNY KNITS FUCKING BALL GAGS FOR SEX BECAUSE ✨wolf hearing✨. CREEPY BUT OKAY GRANNY 🤢.
Nothing in this book felt important.
All the side characters felt inserted for plot reasons, but could have all died and it wouldn't have mattered.
The 'mystery' from the beginning of book 3.... is never explained.
And the relationship between Adam/Parker didn't even cover the plot holes/dumb parts of this series.
To be fair, I can't fucking unsee the whole arm up Adam's his asshole from book 2.
Parker is ALWAYS paranoid and untrusting of people and yet.....
every time someone was being suss, the convo would be:
Parker: they are so suspicious.
someone: no they aren't.
Parker: You're right. Let's move on.
WOT???????????
His trust/paranoia/ptsd/anxiety was NEVER CONSISTENT, and that drove me insane.
1 star because I read the book and had to rate it, and 1 star for my lovely buddy reader Sarah I COULD NOT HAVE MADE IT THROUGH WITHOUT YOU hahahahhaha 💖💖💖💖💖💖💖
May 16, 2024
I waited seven long years for this book and would have waited seven more.
And HELL YEAH, Defy the Future is well worth the wait!
I remembered Parker and Adam and their incredible story. These men are hard to forget. But I reread books 1 and 2 anyway and strongly suggest you do the same (or read them for the first time). It's no hardship, believe me.
If you're new to the series, STOP.
~~~SPOILERS ahead if you haven't read the first two books!~~~
The third book begins some three years after the end of book 2. Parker and Adam are safe on Salvation Island. They have peace, a found family (in Craig, Lilly, and Jacob), and a place to call their own.
Parker swims most mornings, meditates, and teaches nautical classes. He's getting better at keeping his anxiety at bay.
Adam is one of Connie's confidants, working construction and doing anything else requiring strength and skill. He still hasn't shifted fully, but he doesn't let that get him down (much).
Life is good.
Then Parker sees a ship on the horizon - a ship, it turns out, carrying a pack of werewolves from England. Their extremely attractive and charismatic alpha, Sean, is disdainful of humans, whom he calls "ords." He brings news of conflict between humans and werewolves, who've finally come out of hiding.
Parker doesn't trust the newcomers. Hell, after three years, Parker still doesn't trust Bethany, who's shacking up with a werewolf named Damian.
Trust is a big theme in this book: Whom can Parker and Adam count on? Who has ulterior motives? Who's friend, and who's foe?
At 16, Jacob (Abby's son) is awkward and rebellious. He has a huge crush on Sean, and Parker is none too happy when Sean takes Jacob under his wing.
I don't want to get into the plot too much because I loved going into this book blind.
Suffice it to say, Adam and Parker sail the Bella again with a rescue mission in mind. What they find is shocking: creepers dominate the night; rats run rampant; a child's howl fills the air; and Parker hears a familiar voice.
It's a testament to Parker and Adam's powerful bond that they never waver in their love and commitment to each other. This is an established couple story, yet it's anything but mundane. The men's passion is all consuming, their trust unbreakable.
Adam is the calm and steady to Parker's nervous energy, and Parker stands by Adam no matter what. He lies for Adam and will do anything to protect Adam when he falls ill.
The last few chapters are so riveting and intense, I couldn't read quickly enough while simultaneously not wanting the story to end. I'm already rereading to make sure I didn't miss anything.
The ending is everything I wanted, a HEA in all the ways, with potential for another book but, more importantly, HOPE, so much hope.
To quote Adam:
I need a day to breathe before writing a review. This book is everything but NOT a standalone.
Grab book 1 now to join Parker and Adam on a journey of a lifetime.
And HELL YEAH, Defy the Future is well worth the wait!
I remembered Parker and Adam and their incredible story. These men are hard to forget. But I reread books 1 and 2 anyway and strongly suggest you do the same (or read them for the first time). It's no hardship, believe me.
If you're new to the series, STOP.
~~~SPOILERS ahead if you haven't read the first two books!~~~
The third book begins some three years after the end of book 2. Parker and Adam are safe on Salvation Island. They have peace, a found family (in Craig, Lilly, and Jacob), and a place to call their own.
Parker swims most mornings, meditates, and teaches nautical classes. He's getting better at keeping his anxiety at bay.
Adam is one of Connie's confidants, working construction and doing anything else requiring strength and skill. He still hasn't shifted fully, but he doesn't let that get him down (much).
Life is good.
Then Parker sees a ship on the horizon - a ship, it turns out, carrying a pack of werewolves from England. Their extremely attractive and charismatic alpha, Sean, is disdainful of humans, whom he calls "ords." He brings news of conflict between humans and werewolves, who've finally come out of hiding.
Parker doesn't trust the newcomers. Hell, after three years, Parker still doesn't trust Bethany, who's shacking up with a werewolf named Damian.
Trust is a big theme in this book: Whom can Parker and Adam count on? Who has ulterior motives? Who's friend, and who's foe?
At 16, Jacob (Abby's son) is awkward and rebellious. He has a huge crush on Sean, and Parker is none too happy when Sean takes Jacob under his wing.
I don't want to get into the plot too much because I loved going into this book blind.
Suffice it to say, Adam and Parker sail the Bella again with a rescue mission in mind. What they find is shocking: creepers dominate the night; rats run rampant; a child's howl fills the air; and Parker hears a familiar voice.
It's a testament to Parker and Adam's powerful bond that they never waver in their love and commitment to each other. This is an established couple story, yet it's anything but mundane. The men's passion is all consuming, their trust unbreakable.
Adam is the calm and steady to Parker's nervous energy, and Parker stands by Adam no matter what. He lies for Adam and will do anything to protect Adam when he falls ill.
The last few chapters are so riveting and intense, I couldn't read quickly enough while simultaneously not wanting the story to end. I'm already rereading to make sure I didn't miss anything.
The ending is everything I wanted, a HEA in all the ways, with potential for another book but, more importantly, HOPE, so much hope.
To quote Adam:
"This is only the beginning."
I need a day to breathe before writing a review. This book is everything but NOT a standalone.
Grab book 1 now to join Parker and Adam on a journey of a lifetime.
January 16, 2024
*4.5* I am so thankful this author decided to write this story for us! Not a standalone, start with Kick at the Darkness.
Post apocalyptic
Gay/mm romance
Werewolves
Zombies
Ott bad guy
Graphic intimacy
HEA
Yes, there is one scene of but I’m moving past my aversions, because I love these characters.
The trust and love Adam and Park have for one another is beautiful to read. I love their communication, their banter, will forever remember them singing Dolly and Kenny while sailing together.
“Dolly was quite a prophet. Sailing away to another world. Boy, do I relate to that.”
I would happily keep reading stories set in this universe hint hint Keira!
Read the bonus story, it’s worth it. You’ll get a tiny taste of something that was a whispered fantasy in this book. 😉 Your dirty romantic little heart will thank you.
Post apocalyptic
Gay/mm romance
Werewolves
Zombies
Ott bad guy
Graphic intimacy
HEA
Yes, there is one scene of but I’m moving past my aversions, because I love these characters.
The trust and love Adam and Park have for one another is beautiful to read. I love their communication, their banter, will forever remember them singing Dolly and Kenny while sailing together.
“Dolly was quite a prophet. Sailing away to another world. Boy, do I relate to that.”
I would happily keep reading stories set in this universe hint hint Keira!
Read the bonus story, it’s worth it. You’ll get a tiny taste of something that was a whispered fantasy in this book. 😉 Your dirty romantic little heart will thank you.
January 14, 2024
4,25 stars
Soooooooo, ..... this book FINALLY happened!!!!
It'd been so long, a re-read of the first two books was compulsory, and I can happily say that I loved them all over again. Parker and Adam rock!
What about the big finale, then?!
Firstly, it was well worth it.
Secondly, Parker and Adam are still fabulous together.
Thirdly, loved all the angst and tension. I was practically glued to my seat!
Three years on from book 2, Parker is still troubled by some PTSD from what happened in book 1, and frankly, it’s no wonder. I could 100% associate with his issues and his ever-present distrust of strangers. It's heart-warming to see that Adam knows exactly how to keep his guy grounded.
Adam’s as wonderful as ever, but I was a little surprised that after all these years he was still in search of his first full wolf shift, something that bothers him deeply. He has gained in confidence otherwise, as a wolf and in the pack community. And he is still the same hot, growly 'big bad wolf'!
I loved how the dynamics between Parker and Adam are further explored and deepened, how their love is solid, their support of each other unshakable and the heat between them as scorching as ever. But, as usual, paradise has the funny habit of not lasting forever. The peace of Salvation Island is rattled by newcomers which leads to Parker having to face his worst fears … on many levels.
I loved how the author pulls together the plot including quite a few twists, turns and surprises. Sadly, a world where survivors find reasons to fight each other rather than work together feels rather realistic and true.
All in all I was happy how things turned out, even if some plot lines could have been dealt with a little bit more in depth. I'm thinking of one in particular
I would have also really liked to find out what caused the pandemic and what happened to those people who were trying to find a cure. We are left with Parker and Adam to wonder what happened which is fair enough as we are in their POV. Maybe Jacob and Devon will find out? There is certainly a lot of scope to add one (or more?) books to this series.
One other small niggle:
I found it difficult to believe that Salvation Island is coping so well, keeping its population of about 500 fed, watered and cared for over so many years. Lots of practical questions kept flashing past me, but I guess it’s simply a case of suspending belief just a little and me overthinking things!
This is a great adventure with wonderful, believable MCs, a great love story and excellent secondary characters. Highly recommend it!
Soooooooo, ..... this book FINALLY happened!!!!
It'd been so long, a re-read of the first two books was compulsory, and I can happily say that I loved them all over again. Parker and Adam rock!
What about the big finale, then?!
Firstly, it was well worth it.
Secondly, Parker and Adam are still fabulous together.
Thirdly, loved all the angst and tension. I was practically glued to my seat!
Three years on from book 2, Parker is still troubled by some PTSD from what happened in book 1, and frankly, it’s no wonder. I could 100% associate with his issues and his ever-present distrust of strangers. It's heart-warming to see that Adam knows exactly how to keep his guy grounded.
Adam’s as wonderful as ever, but I was a little surprised that after all these years he was still in search of his first full wolf shift, something that bothers him deeply. He has gained in confidence otherwise, as a wolf and in the pack community. And he is still the same hot, growly 'big bad wolf'!
I loved how the dynamics between Parker and Adam are further explored and deepened, how their love is solid, their support of each other unshakable and the heat between them as scorching as ever. But, as usual, paradise has the funny habit of not lasting forever. The peace of Salvation Island is rattled by newcomers which leads to Parker having to face his worst fears … on many levels.
I loved how the author pulls together the plot including quite a few twists, turns and surprises. Sadly, a world where survivors find reasons to fight each other rather than work together feels rather realistic and true.
All in all I was happy how things turned out, even if some plot lines could have been dealt with a little bit more in depth. I'm thinking of one in particular
I would have also really liked to find out what caused the pandemic and what happened to those people who were trying to find a cure. We are left with Parker and Adam to wonder what happened which is fair enough as we are in their POV. Maybe Jacob and Devon will find out? There is certainly a lot of scope to add one (or more?) books to this series.
One other small niggle:
I found it difficult to believe that Salvation Island is coping so well, keeping its population of about 500 fed, watered and cared for over so many years. Lots of practical questions kept flashing past me, but I guess it’s simply a case of suspending belief just a little and me overthinking things!
This is a great adventure with wonderful, believable MCs, a great love story and excellent secondary characters. Highly recommend it!
January 15, 2024
✰ 3 stars ✰
“Face creasing, Adam bent and pressed their foreheads together, his whisper warm on Parker’s lips. “I should never have left you.”
“You came back. You fought it. You fought for me.” He spread his fingers on Adam’s hips. “That’s what matters.”
Kick at the Darkness was one of the first MM series I read when I began my descent into MM Romances back in 2022. For each of the pivotal moments, Defy the Future alluded to - from when Adam pulled Parker up onto his precious motorcycle, Mariah, to the constant attacks against creepers or werewolves, I recalled each of them so vividly in my head. ✨ And now, it's not creatures of darkness that they have to fight against in order to survive, but humanity at its utmost lowest that will test Parker and Adams' survival of existence; but one thing that remains forever unchanged in their hearts is the unwavering love they have for each other.
“You have no idea how tempting that is,” Parker mumbled. “But no. For all the reasons we talked about on the island, I need to do this. It’ll be fine. We have your wolfy abilities and my charm. Plus a gun.”
Yes, this scene so-reminded me of that moment in LOTR before they head off on their journey! 😆 And it did feel a bit surreal to realize that this series was finally receiving its long-awaited conclusion; but, it was a nice revisit to a world ravaged by creepers or werewolves, and then some. Some time has passed where Parker and Adam have been living comfortable lives with their secluded community on Sanctuary Island, content with the way things are. But, when they have to take up arms that brings them back into the fray of danger, it's back to the boonies or, well, in this case, back to the waters for them, as they step back into the ravages of the world they've left behind, and along the way stumble upon some old and new faces that will have them make some life-threatening decisions in the face of danger. 😟 It was fast-paced and action-packed; there was a great balance of levity with sincerity in the writing's tone and I appreciated how the storyline focused on one key storyline of the story. It allowed for Parker and Adam to grow - not only as individuals, but with each challenge the pair faced along the way, it only strengthened their resolve to survive and the deep bond they shared with each other. 🤍🤍
“I’m yours, and you’re mine. All of you.”
Their relationship is the driving force of their journey, and you could feel it resonate throughout. Adam was so devoted to Parker, so fiercely possessive and protective of him and of his own kind, too. Whether in wolf mode or on his own, he never wanted to show himself as weak, never ever wanted Parker to ever feel that he was at the mercy of others. 🥺 'Had to touch to remind himself that Parker was okay and that they were together, and Adam wouldn’t let anything happen to him.' Adam was always a resilient force, but for him to get that crowning moment, after years of struggling to make his mark, find his keep, stake his claim, was the icing on the cake.
But, it was Parker who really stole the show and my heart; he had a lot on his plate, a lot weighing on his heart, so many difficult decisions he had to make, but he was never hesitant or unsure when it came to Adam - Adam was his everything. It hurt to see how he's still carrying the lingering pain of what he's experienced at the hands of other werewolves, making him distrustful of any unknown werewolves that he comes across, but to see his views change - for him to take note that it is possible for his views on them to change was one of the highlights of the story. 👍🏻👍🏻
Their banter was effortless, their way of understanding one another's thoughts, dauntless, and their love - insurmountable. There's no denying how much they are in love - how much they belong together - how much they are so entwined and intent of looking out for the other's well-being, knowing full well the damage that they've both had to endure at the hands of others, forever carrying those painful scars, but always fighting to calm that overwhelming pressure in their hearts. 🥹🥹 'I’d be dead or a creeper if it wasn’t for Adam and Mariah. His motorcycle. We were stuck together from that night. After a while, it was a choice.' They were so loyal and supportive - their bike riding moments, the moments on the boat, it just captured the quiet and soft intimacy that they've built up over the years. 💜💜
“What he would have given to keep driving, just the two of them forever.
“Are you okay?” Parker asked hoarsely, even though he couldn’t be okay himself, and Adam loved him so much in that moment it hurt.”
It's not the little details that matter - it's not about to reaffirming their feelings - it's the fight of their lives - the journey of their growth - and for others to know that despite what they may have been led to believe - no one is quite the formidable enemy they've been led to believe. It's that misconception people have - to simply judge upon appearance, without knowing anything about one's character - heck, even I fell for it!! 😅 And to me, even with all the action and romance and lighthearted humor, this was the message that sank itself into my core. How the enemy isn't always necessarily the one who looks evil or plays the part of the big, bad, wolf; sometimes, you have to defy the future expectations of what others are led to believe and bring about the right kind of change - the one that matters. 😥
There still was plenty left unanswered - still some lingering questions that were never quite addressed. But, the way the author concluded the story gives me hope that she may not be quite ready to bid adieu to this series. And with some interesting supporting characters thrown into the mix, I wouldn't mind revisiting them again. There's certainly some potential for a story left untold. In any case, it was a lovely return to this zombie-infested world; Parker and Adam earned and deserved the life of happiness that awaited them. 🫶🏻
“Face creasing, Adam bent and pressed their foreheads together, his whisper warm on Parker’s lips. “I should never have left you.”
“You came back. You fought it. You fought for me.” He spread his fingers on Adam’s hips. “That’s what matters.”
Kick at the Darkness was one of the first MM series I read when I began my descent into MM Romances back in 2022. For each of the pivotal moments, Defy the Future alluded to - from when Adam pulled Parker up onto his precious motorcycle, Mariah, to the constant attacks against creepers or werewolves, I recalled each of them so vividly in my head. ✨ And now, it's not creatures of darkness that they have to fight against in order to survive, but humanity at its utmost lowest that will test Parker and Adams' survival of existence; but one thing that remains forever unchanged in their hearts is the unwavering love they have for each other.
“You have no idea how tempting that is,” Parker mumbled. “But no. For all the reasons we talked about on the island, I need to do this. It’ll be fine. We have your wolfy abilities and my charm. Plus a gun.”
Yes, this scene so-reminded me of that moment in LOTR before they head off on their journey! 😆 And it did feel a bit surreal to realize that this series was finally receiving its long-awaited conclusion; but, it was a nice revisit to a world ravaged by creepers or werewolves, and then some. Some time has passed where Parker and Adam have been living comfortable lives with their secluded community on Sanctuary Island, content with the way things are. But, when they have to take up arms that brings them back into the fray of danger, it's back to the boonies or, well, in this case, back to the waters for them, as they step back into the ravages of the world they've left behind, and along the way stumble upon some old and new faces that will have them make some life-threatening decisions in the face of danger. 😟 It was fast-paced and action-packed; there was a great balance of levity with sincerity in the writing's tone and I appreciated how the storyline focused on one key storyline of the story. It allowed for Parker and Adam to grow - not only as individuals, but with each challenge the pair faced along the way, it only strengthened their resolve to survive and the deep bond they shared with each other. 🤍🤍
“I’m yours, and you’re mine. All of you.”
Their relationship is the driving force of their journey, and you could feel it resonate throughout. Adam was so devoted to Parker, so fiercely possessive and protective of him and of his own kind, too. Whether in wolf mode or on his own, he never wanted to show himself as weak, never ever wanted Parker to ever feel that he was at the mercy of others. 🥺 'Had to touch to remind himself that Parker was okay and that they were together, and Adam wouldn’t let anything happen to him.' Adam was always a resilient force, but for him to get that crowning moment, after years of struggling to make his mark, find his keep, stake his claim, was the icing on the cake.
But, it was Parker who really stole the show and my heart; he had a lot on his plate, a lot weighing on his heart, so many difficult decisions he had to make, but he was never hesitant or unsure when it came to Adam - Adam was his everything. It hurt to see how he's still carrying the lingering pain of what he's experienced at the hands of other werewolves, making him distrustful of any unknown werewolves that he comes across, but to see his views change - for him to take note that it is possible for his views on them to change was one of the highlights of the story. 👍🏻👍🏻
Their banter was effortless, their way of understanding one another's thoughts, dauntless, and their love - insurmountable. There's no denying how much they are in love - how much they belong together - how much they are so entwined and intent of looking out for the other's well-being, knowing full well the damage that they've both had to endure at the hands of others, forever carrying those painful scars, but always fighting to calm that overwhelming pressure in their hearts. 🥹🥹 'I’d be dead or a creeper if it wasn’t for Adam and Mariah. His motorcycle. We were stuck together from that night. After a while, it was a choice.' They were so loyal and supportive - their bike riding moments, the moments on the boat, it just captured the quiet and soft intimacy that they've built up over the years. 💜💜
“What he would have given to keep driving, just the two of them forever.
“Are you okay?” Parker asked hoarsely, even though he couldn’t be okay himself, and Adam loved him so much in that moment it hurt.”
It's not the little details that matter - it's not about to reaffirming their feelings - it's the fight of their lives - the journey of their growth - and for others to know that despite what they may have been led to believe - no one is quite the formidable enemy they've been led to believe. It's that misconception people have - to simply judge upon appearance, without knowing anything about one's character - heck, even I fell for it!! 😅 And to me, even with all the action and romance and lighthearted humor, this was the message that sank itself into my core. How the enemy isn't always necessarily the one who looks evil or plays the part of the big, bad, wolf; sometimes, you have to defy the future expectations of what others are led to believe and bring about the right kind of change - the one that matters. 😥
There still was plenty left unanswered - still some lingering questions that were never quite addressed. But, the way the author concluded the story gives me hope that she may not be quite ready to bid adieu to this series. And with some interesting supporting characters thrown into the mix, I wouldn't mind revisiting them again. There's certainly some potential for a story left untold. In any case, it was a lovely return to this zombie-infested world; Parker and Adam earned and deserved the life of happiness that awaited them. 🫶🏻
Want to read
May 25, 2018I need this to be on my Kindle, right-the-eff-now. Anyone got release date info?
January 7, 2024
⭐️ 3.5 stars ⭐️
Satisfying ending to a wonderful and emotional adventure.
Adam and Parker finally got their happy ending, and I couldn’t be any happier.
The first portion of the book is what took away some stars for me. It was a mix of boring and me being anxious about what was going to happen that I couldn’t really enjoy the book. I guess Parker rubbed off on me a little bit.
Glad it picked back up by the second half, and I got to experience the same vibe from book one. The adventure, them against the world, the mystery.
Also, for a post-apocalyptic zombie setting, there weren’t a lot of zombie (or creeper) moments. This third installment falls more in the paranormal/shifter category, and I don’t know how I feel about that.
I’m still glad I stuck with it til the end, because I definitely needed this heart warming, complete ending.
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
CW and tropes(spoilers):
- MC with anxiety
- Fisting
- Rimming
- Found family
- HEA ending
Satisfying ending to a wonderful and emotional adventure.
Adam and Parker finally got their happy ending, and I couldn’t be any happier.
The first portion of the book is what took away some stars for me. It was a mix of boring and me being anxious about what was going to happen that I couldn’t really enjoy the book. I guess Parker rubbed off on me a little bit.
Glad it picked back up by the second half, and I got to experience the same vibe from book one. The adventure, them against the world, the mystery.
Also, for a post-apocalyptic zombie setting, there weren’t a lot of zombie (or creeper) moments. This third installment falls more in the paranormal/shifter category, and I don’t know how I feel about that.
I’m still glad I stuck with it til the end, because I definitely needed this heart warming, complete ending.
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
CW and tropes(spoilers):
- MC with anxiety
- Fisting
- Rimming
- Found family
- HEA ending
January 7, 2024
I would like to thank GRR for the opportunity to read and review this ARC.
well that was an enjoyable conclusion to this series! and parker shone in the last quarter of the book and i really couldn't ask for more than that lol! all in all it was a great little series to binge for a weekend and while it didn't exactly reinvent the wheel, it was still fun and the HEA was pretty sweet. looking forward to going through my KA backlist, and everything else she releases in the future!
well that was an enjoyable conclusion to this series! and parker shone in the last quarter of the book and i really couldn't ask for more than that lol! all in all it was a great little series to binge for a weekend and while it didn't exactly reinvent the wheel, it was still fun and the HEA was pretty sweet. looking forward to going through my KA backlist, and everything else she releases in the future!
December 27, 2023
It’s so hard to believe that the trilogy has ended. Kick At The Darkness will forever be my favorite m/m book and being able to read this ARC is such a gift! These characters are extremely special to me and Keira Andrews wrote a beautiful and perfect conclusion for them.
What I loved about this is we get Parker and Adam back on the boat and on Mariah. There are some surprises and the evil they’re fighting is definitely not what I expected! It was done so well though!
Parker grew as a character so much, seeing him as a man now and coming full circle was serendipitous. He started this trilogy as a privileged brat complaining about a grade and then had to face a zombie apocalypse while discovering werewolves were a thing. And he fell in love. Adam is the perfect boyfriend who compliments Parker’s anxiety with his calm demeanor and loving ways.
I hope we get more from this world with a Jacob book (please Keira!). I’m not ready to let this world go and I’ll always reread these books.
ARC received for review
All thoughts and opinions are my own
What I loved about this is we get Parker and Adam back on the boat and on Mariah. There are some surprises and the evil they’re fighting is definitely not what I expected! It was done so well though!
Parker grew as a character so much, seeing him as a man now and coming full circle was serendipitous. He started this trilogy as a privileged brat complaining about a grade and then had to face a zombie apocalypse while discovering werewolves were a thing. And he fell in love. Adam is the perfect boyfriend who compliments Parker’s anxiety with his calm demeanor and loving ways.
I hope we get more from this world with a Jacob book (please Keira!). I’m not ready to let this world go and I’ll always reread these books.
ARC received for review
All thoughts and opinions are my own
August 19, 2024
Damn if I’d waited 8yrs for this sequel I would be RAGING! I read this series in a week and was left feeling terribly disappointed by this final instalment. There was so much potential!! Book 1 was so good I gave it 5 stars and book 2 was slow but I was willing to give it the benefit of the doubt, however this was a real letdown. It focussed on a lot of unnecessary trivial details, introduced characters so late in the game that I never cared for them and left so many promised storyline’s just dangling in the breeze. There was so little resolution to anything.
Anyway, I buddy read this with my dear friend Chelsea and her review sums up my feelings for this far better than I could ever describe so ignore my words and read hers: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Anyway, I buddy read this with my dear friend Chelsea and her review sums up my feelings for this far better than I could ever describe so ignore my words and read hers: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
January 19, 2024
I was not one of the readers who had been waiting almost to the point of thinking this book was never going to even happen. I read the first book in 2015 and for whatever reading world reason, I never even picked up book two. But, when news of the third book being a real thing started circulating, I knew I had to get my head in the game and start from the beginning so when I got here, I would be ready.
How ready can you be during a pandemic?
I’m probably going to be a little bit in the minority here. This, as a whole, was a great conclusion to the trilogy. But I didn’t love it and I had some issues.
The story picks upfive three years later (I swear it was five but everyone's reviews say three so I'm sort of editing) and although a lot has changed, a lot has stayed the same. Adam and Parker’s love is stronger than ever, and they are safe as they can be on Salvation Island. There are newcomers and people are pairing off and growing up. Teenagers are being teenagers and the island itself is benefiting from new buildings and animals and crops. Growth.
What hasn’t changed much is Parker. I was surprised he was still in his head as much as he was with this much time passed. Trauma is trauma, I get it and at times I totally got where he was coming from, if he didn’t act out on it. I was just a little taken back by some of his behavior. There still seemed to be vague answers about things going on and that too seemed like it should have been a little different.
But, once we got to the meat of the story and the adventure commenced, I was completely in it. The twists that came were exciting and very frightening. There was definitely the growth I was looking for in Parker at this point. Adam too had some exciting changes.
I feel like I was lucky to sort of read all three at once without any serious wait in between the reads. Because of that I feel like I had the best sort of experience. I definitely recommend a re-read if you’ve been waiting years for the conclusion.
It was a hard fought, out of control HEA and I love seeing Adam and Parker at peace. At least the best kind that they can have in the crazy world that is left.
Good stuff.
How ready can you be during a pandemic?
I’m probably going to be a little bit in the minority here. This, as a whole, was a great conclusion to the trilogy. But I didn’t love it and I had some issues.
The story picks up
What hasn’t changed much is Parker. I was surprised he was still in his head as much as he was with this much time passed. Trauma is trauma, I get it and at times I totally got where he was coming from, if he didn’t act out on it. I was just a little taken back by some of his behavior. There still seemed to be vague answers about things going on and that too seemed like it should have been a little different.
But, once we got to the meat of the story and the adventure commenced, I was completely in it. The twists that came were exciting and very frightening. There was definitely the growth I was looking for in Parker at this point. Adam too had some exciting changes.
I feel like I was lucky to sort of read all three at once without any serious wait in between the reads. Because of that I feel like I had the best sort of experience. I definitely recommend a re-read if you’ve been waiting years for the conclusion.
It was a hard fought, out of control HEA and I love seeing Adam and Parker at peace. At least the best kind that they can have in the crazy world that is left.
Good stuff.
January 23, 2024
It's the finale one of my favorite dystopians of the 2010s deserves. It might not be as intense as the previous parts but has still all the action and feels necessary and then there's the best, most fitting epilogue I read for a long time on a paranormal story.
May 25, 2022
i think about this series all the time😭
January 31, 2024
7 and a half year wait? No problem.
Was it worth that wait? Hell yes!
You go so long without, you might forget just how much you loved it in the first place. Returning to this series reminded me just how much I loved it. How much I love Parker and Adam.
Now, I did not do a reread of the first two books in this series. Probably silly of me, but I didn't want to wait to dive into this one, so I skipped the rereads.
And yeah, I was totally forgetful of several details. I still don't remember Jacob or Abby or Connie or any of the islanders in the first two books. Or that Parker had a brother, Eric, who he had no idea what had happened to him. That Adam hadn't fully shifted yet. Them being at the Pines (although I have the vaguest of vague recollections of a bit of it) and what they went through. What happened between Parker and Bethany on a boat. All this shit, I was like...uh....yeah, completely forgot.
But did it deter me? Nope! Because I still remembered Parker and Adam and how much I loved them. I remembered they got to the island. I remember they went on a cross country road trip at the beginning of the apocalypse on the back of Adam's bike. I remember how they met before it all went down and how they got stuck in the apocalypse together. I remember all of that, and that's really all I truly needed.
I might have scratched my head a time or two and went "wait whose Abby?" but that's on me lol.
Otherwise, I got immersed in this world again really easily.
One would think Parker and Adam got their HEA with the end of the second book. They've made it to an island that is safe, a community that has become a real home. They're happy.
But still, there were things they needed to overcome in this book to truly reach that pinnacle of a HEA.
Adam needed to fully shift, to make it past whatever was blocking him from doing so.
Parker needed to get passed his fear and anxiety over leaving the island and face those fears. To go back to the mainland that he hasn't been back to in 3 years. Because of his fears and anxieties - and past trauma's he experience on the mainland - he's highly suspicious and paranoid of anyone who comes to the island, and even wishes that Connie, the alpha and leader on the island, would stop sending out the message of a safe haven and stop letting new people on the island, to stop at the 500 or so that they have.
But everyone deserves a chance at safety and a home. And when Jacob, the now 16 year old son of Abby, is getting restless and acting exactly how teenagers act, leaves the island when a new pack of werewolves, lead by Sean, another alpha, come along, Parker must face his fears once and for all to go the mainland to rescue Jacob.
And speaking of Sean, he does seem suspicious at first, and Parker's paranoia over him doesn't help matters, but you come to really like Sean (and kinda, maybe hope he finds out he's bisexual and gets a book or books over his own where he finds love again? Just maybe ;)) and his pack.
I really, really loved how Parker and Adam's relationship was portrayed in this one. They're still going so strong after 3 years and even the few times they might say something they didn't mean or shouldn't have or get in a slight argument, they handle each other so well. How quickly they apologize, and then talk about it.
Also, I was worried that this wouldn't have as much focus on these two and their sex life, since they're very much established at this point (and some book fall prey to giving less focus to established couples), but I didn't need to worry. They still have such an active and passionate sex life, and so much of this was focused on Parker and Adam. There was the plot, but it was secondary to these two and their love. Which I just love so much. Give me that over too much focus on plot in a Romance novel any day.
Just...their love shines through every page, and nothing and no one can break these two apart.
Which is especially challenged near the end when a seemingly new foe pops up - and perhaps a little too close to home...
But of course, it all works out in the end - perhaps a little too easy for a zombie apocalypse? Maybe, but I don't care. If I want pain in a zombie apocalypse, I'll just watch The Walking Dead lol - and these to get the most solid of HEA's you can get in a zombie apocalypse.
Seeing everyone happy and settled by the end is perfection (except *cough*Sean*cough* who could use his own book/series *cough*) and made my heart so happy.
Definitely dive into this if you've also read the first two (and you might want to reread if it's been a long time...because I didn't and I was totally forgetful of several characters/plot points lol) and loved them. This was the perfect end to this series, and I definitely think the wait was worth it.
Can't wait for more from the lovely Ms. Andrews, whether it's more from this universe with new couples, or new series' or standalones.
I'll definitely be jumping on the next novel by this lovely author.
Onto the next! ❤️
My Ratings for the Kick at the Darkness Series:
🔆 Kick at the Darkness: 5 stars
🔆 Fight the Tide: 5 stars (my review)
🔆 Defy the Future: 5 stars
Was it worth that wait? Hell yes!
You go so long without, you might forget just how much you loved it in the first place. Returning to this series reminded me just how much I loved it. How much I love Parker and Adam.
Now, I did not do a reread of the first two books in this series. Probably silly of me, but I didn't want to wait to dive into this one, so I skipped the rereads.
And yeah, I was totally forgetful of several details. I still don't remember Jacob or Abby or Connie or any of the islanders in the first two books. Or that Parker had a brother, Eric, who he had no idea what had happened to him. That Adam hadn't fully shifted yet. Them being at the Pines (although I have the vaguest of vague recollections of a bit of it) and what they went through. What happened between Parker and Bethany on a boat. All this shit, I was like...uh....yeah, completely forgot.
But did it deter me? Nope! Because I still remembered Parker and Adam and how much I loved them. I remembered they got to the island. I remember they went on a cross country road trip at the beginning of the apocalypse on the back of Adam's bike. I remember how they met before it all went down and how they got stuck in the apocalypse together. I remember all of that, and that's really all I truly needed.
I might have scratched my head a time or two and went "wait whose Abby?" but that's on me lol.
Otherwise, I got immersed in this world again really easily.
One would think Parker and Adam got their HEA with the end of the second book. They've made it to an island that is safe, a community that has become a real home. They're happy.
But still, there were things they needed to overcome in this book to truly reach that pinnacle of a HEA.
Adam needed to fully shift, to make it past whatever was blocking him from doing so.
Parker needed to get passed his fear and anxiety over leaving the island and face those fears. To go back to the mainland that he hasn't been back to in 3 years. Because of his fears and anxieties - and past trauma's he experience on the mainland - he's highly suspicious and paranoid of anyone who comes to the island, and even wishes that Connie, the alpha and leader on the island, would stop sending out the message of a safe haven and stop letting new people on the island, to stop at the 500 or so that they have.
But everyone deserves a chance at safety and a home. And when Jacob, the now 16 year old son of Abby, is getting restless and acting exactly how teenagers act, leaves the island when a new pack of werewolves, lead by Sean, another alpha, come along, Parker must face his fears once and for all to go the mainland to rescue Jacob.
And speaking of Sean, he does seem suspicious at first, and Parker's paranoia over him doesn't help matters, but you come to really like Sean (and kinda, maybe hope he finds out he's bisexual and gets a book or books over his own where he finds love again? Just maybe ;)) and his pack.
I really, really loved how Parker and Adam's relationship was portrayed in this one. They're still going so strong after 3 years and even the few times they might say something they didn't mean or shouldn't have or get in a slight argument, they handle each other so well. How quickly they apologize, and then talk about it.
Also, I was worried that this wouldn't have as much focus on these two and their sex life, since they're very much established at this point (and some book fall prey to giving less focus to established couples), but I didn't need to worry. They still have such an active and passionate sex life, and so much of this was focused on Parker and Adam. There was the plot, but it was secondary to these two and their love. Which I just love so much. Give me that over too much focus on plot in a Romance novel any day.
Just...their love shines through every page, and nothing and no one can break these two apart.
Which is especially challenged near the end when a seemingly new foe pops up - and perhaps a little too close to home...
But of course, it all works out in the end - perhaps a little too easy for a zombie apocalypse? Maybe, but I don't care. If I want pain in a zombie apocalypse, I'll just watch The Walking Dead lol - and these to get the most solid of HEA's you can get in a zombie apocalypse.
Seeing everyone happy and settled by the end is perfection (except *cough*Sean*cough* who could use his own book/series *cough*) and made my heart so happy.
Definitely dive into this if you've also read the first two (and you might want to reread if it's been a long time...because I didn't and I was totally forgetful of several characters/plot points lol) and loved them. This was the perfect end to this series, and I definitely think the wait was worth it.
Can't wait for more from the lovely Ms. Andrews, whether it's more from this universe with new couples, or new series' or standalones.
I'll definitely be jumping on the next novel by this lovely author.
Onto the next! ❤️
My Ratings for the Kick at the Darkness Series:
🔆 Kick at the Darkness: 5 stars
🔆 Fight the Tide: 5 stars (my review)
🔆 Defy the Future: 5 stars
January 14, 2024
I thought this was a solid conclusion to the trilogy!
I enjoyed being back with Parker & Adam again, and it was fun to see the other characters as well. Three years have passed since the end of the last book, and I did find it a bit frustrating that essentially zero character growth happens in that time. Parker's anxiety is possibly worse than before, and while their relationship is still going strong, it didn't really feel like it had matured at all. True, Parker is still only 21, but still, if you have a long time gap, I want to see proof of that in the characterizations, and this really felt like it picked up immediately after the previous book, emotions-wise.
The baddie felt a little OTT, but on the whole I did find the book enjoyable, and felt like it ended in a solid place. On the smut front
Book 1 continues to be my fav, and while I may re-read the trilogy all together in the future, and I do think they're all solid reads, book 1 is definitely the star.
I enjoyed being back with Parker & Adam again, and it was fun to see the other characters as well. Three years have passed since the end of the last book, and I did find it a bit frustrating that essentially zero character growth happens in that time. Parker's anxiety is possibly worse than before, and while their relationship is still going strong, it didn't really feel like it had matured at all. True, Parker is still only 21, but still, if you have a long time gap, I want to see proof of that in the characterizations, and this really felt like it picked up immediately after the previous book, emotions-wise.
The baddie felt a little OTT, but on the whole I did find the book enjoyable, and felt like it ended in a solid place. On the smut front
Book 1 continues to be my fav, and while I may re-read the trilogy all together in the future, and I do think they're all solid reads, book 1 is definitely the star.
March 20, 2024
This was a great finale! I could feel the danger and tension of the situation. I already loved the characters and cared about them and wanted their happy ending. The relationship was still sweet and cute, though less focused on this time. The found family was still sweet and cute too. The combination of zombie apocalypse with a world where werewolves exist was a fun idea that continued to affect the whole story.
It was also sorta fun that in the end, Parker had to work with the two people he disliked and distrusted the most. Also funny when *SPOILER* *END SPOILER*
I guess I don’t have a lot to say because I’ve already said it in my previous reviews. Overall, this trilogy was sweet, sexy, and emotional with danger and action and romance and found family and zombies and werewolves, and I really enjoyed it!
*Rating: 4 Stars // Read Date: 2024 // Format: Ebook via TTS*
Recommended For:
Fans of Books 1 and 2 in Keira Andrews's Kick at the Darkness series. Anyone who likes character-focused zombie apocalypse books, m/m paranormal romance, werewolves, sweet and supportive relationships, lots of sex, found family, and lots of feels. (Those last two things start more in Book 2, you just have to stick with it.)
Original Review @ Metaphors and Moonlight
It was also sorta fun that in the end, Parker had to work with the two people he disliked and distrusted the most. Also funny when *SPOILER* *END SPOILER*
I guess I don’t have a lot to say because I’ve already said it in my previous reviews. Overall, this trilogy was sweet, sexy, and emotional with danger and action and romance and found family and zombies and werewolves, and I really enjoyed it!
*Rating: 4 Stars // Read Date: 2024 // Format: Ebook via TTS*
Recommended For:
Fans of Books 1 and 2 in Keira Andrews's Kick at the Darkness series. Anyone who likes character-focused zombie apocalypse books, m/m paranormal romance, werewolves, sweet and supportive relationships, lots of sex, found family, and lots of feels. (Those last two things start more in Book 2, you just have to stick with it.)
Original Review @ Metaphors and Moonlight
January 31, 2024
This was a good ending to Adam and Parker's story. It had a bit of everything that the first two did with romance, suspense, horror, and found family. There are some new characters in with the old and while this is a completion of the main story, there is still the potential to branch out with the stories of some of the secondary characters.
We see that Parker is dealing with PTSD from the events of the previous books and Adam is still learning about his wolf side. Life on Salvation Island is pretty idyllic considering the state of the world, but it can't last forever. There is the potential threat posed by newcomers and the need to prepare for a future where they may need to expand their community onto the mainland.
There are plenty of surprises in store and the end of the book was full of tension. Through it all Adam and Parker continue to strengthen their bond and fight for their happiness and security with their new family. There are happy moments, surprises, some sexy times, and, of course, a happy ending for our two MCs.
We see that Parker is dealing with PTSD from the events of the previous books and Adam is still learning about his wolf side. Life on Salvation Island is pretty idyllic considering the state of the world, but it can't last forever. There is the potential threat posed by newcomers and the need to prepare for a future where they may need to expand their community onto the mainland.
There are plenty of surprises in store and the end of the book was full of tension. Through it all Adam and Parker continue to strengthen their bond and fight for their happiness and security with their new family. There are happy moments, surprises, some sexy times, and, of course, a happy ending for our two MCs.
February 9, 2024
Wow., 5 star series. An us-against-the-world paranormal apocalyptic romance with gore, violence, grief, fear, strength, survival, tenderness, love and loss. The second book ended on a hopeful HEA and I began the last book with trepidation. The third book picks up 2ish years after the MCs make it to their safe place and it is perfection.
This book was everything I needed. I loved seeing them settled down and happy, loved seeing Jacob growing into himself and some silliness and poking fun over his teenage angst. I was on the edge of my seat during some tense and suspenseful moments and then everything came into alignment during some mad cap adventures with the most unlikely co-conspirators. Absolutely wonderful series, excellent writing, memorable characters and lovely solid couple. Highly recommend.
Series, book 3, finale, m/m, HEA, zombies, USA, motorcycle, boat, apocalypse, paranormal, werewolf.
This book was everything I needed. I loved seeing them settled down and happy, loved seeing Jacob growing into himself and some silliness and poking fun over his teenage angst. I was on the edge of my seat during some tense and suspenseful moments and then everything came into alignment during some mad cap adventures with the most unlikely co-conspirators. Absolutely wonderful series, excellent writing, memorable characters and lovely solid couple. Highly recommend.
Series, book 3, finale, m/m, HEA, zombies, USA, motorcycle, boat, apocalypse, paranormal, werewolf.
January 29, 2024
I liked this one more than the second in the series. I think being again in the continent gives more room for developing a plot. I liked that the action moved over there despite wanting to There were some things that were too convenient but were well done, we were expecting it, so those didn't came out of the blue.
In the end, I liked
Overall, this was entertaining.
In the end, I liked
Overall, this was entertaining.
October 20, 2024
Chelsea’s in depth 2 Star review said everything I thought about this book.
IMO, the author should’ve written a longer book 1 and given the characters an HFN ending. There was obviously not enough plot content for 3 quality books, so the following releases in the series were nothing but endless filler with a few pages of actual action sprinkled in.
The characters became more irritating and annoying. The plot went nowhere and the sex became progressively weirder and weirder.
IMO, the author should’ve written a longer book 1 and given the characters an HFN ending. There was obviously not enough plot content for 3 quality books, so the following releases in the series were nothing but endless filler with a few pages of actual action sprinkled in.
The characters became more irritating and annoying. The plot went nowhere and the sex became progressively weirder and weirder.
March 31, 2024
This one was a happy surprise for me. Loved being back in this world.
January 13, 2024
Just absolutely excellent. I flew through this, and loved almost every little bit of it.
Adam and Parker are absolute soul mates and I can’t get enough of them. I honestly hope for more books, but this was the first book with an epilogue so I know that is unlikely. The best thing about this book was how they were 100% there for each other no matter what.
I found the plot very engaging as well. I just wish that maybe once Parker could be right about someone when he’s having his anxiety attacks 😂 I absolutely adore how the story ended and Parker’s part in everything. Especially at the end when he sees Adam. God that was good!!!
I wish we had gotten a bit more of an extended epilogue on just Adam and Parker but baggers can’t be choosers. I’m so glad to have read this series.
Adam and Parker are absolute soul mates and I can’t get enough of them. I honestly hope for more books, but this was the first book with an epilogue so I know that is unlikely. The best thing about this book was how they were 100% there for each other no matter what.
I found the plot very engaging as well. I just wish that maybe once Parker could be right about someone when he’s having his anxiety attacks 😂 I absolutely adore how the story ended and Parker’s part in everything. Especially at the end when he sees Adam. God that was good!!!
I wish we had gotten a bit more of an extended epilogue on just Adam and Parker but baggers can’t be choosers. I’m so glad to have read this series.
May 21, 2024
Chance meetings, danger,
more zombies, family, fists.
Terrific series.
3.5 rounded down.
more zombies, family, fists.
Terrific series.
3.5 rounded down.
January 26, 2024
This is a whole series review. Overall, this series is a 3.5 for me, but book one is a 5 star favorites-of-all-time, which is very rare for me.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The first book, Kick at the Darkness, is incredible. It's well-paced, exciting, and Parker/Adam are fucking hot together. Their relationship is really cute, despite the situation they're in (i.e. end of the world). The character and relationship development are exceptional. It just works.
This is one of my favorite books ever, truly. A werewolf taking care of and protecting his human boyfriend, and the human boyfriend loving his wolf and teaching him to love himself since Adam struggles with that. And their sex is very hot. Yep, all of that, right up my alley.
Some reviews of this book say its brutal and horror. Don't let them scare you off. Reading those, you'd be expecting to read on-page torture. That's not the case at all. There's a few moderately graphic scenes of people turning into "zombies", general mention of blood, etc., but it's very far from horror and what I'd consider "brutal". It's mild compared to a lot of things I read. Go pick up a Sienna Moreau book and see what gore and violence are with heads literally rolling and people bursting into flames lol.
Anyway, I really fucking love this book. 5 stars from me, added to my favorites-of-all-time short list.
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Book two, Fight the Tide, is not terrible, but it's definitely different. It's much slower, with Parker and Adam being at sea most of the time. For me, that environment took away some of the excitement that was in book one. I also felt Parker and Adam had some personality changes in between book one and two. It felt a bit disjointed at times. Parker also got really annoying at a few different points, going the opposite direction I thought he'd be headed in maturity wise.
The sex and relationship was still pretty good, though. Some reviewers have said they were put off by the fisting scene (yes, there's one in book two and one in book three) and that it came out of nowhere, but I disagree. It fits really well with Adam's anatomy... he's a werewolf that heals incredibly fast. His body is plenty capable of getting his guts punched (on the inside) without any pain lasting more than just a second or two. He needs that extra stimulation, something no one has ever given him, and Parker is very willing and excited to provide that for him. It was a very nice addition to their dynamic, I felt, and the scene is smoking hot. 🔥🔥
Salvation Island is a whole thing that I'll talk about with book three below, but just know it was an issue in this book too. Overall, book two was a let down but not a huge one. A solid 3.5 for me.
⭐️⭐️
Book three, Defy the Future. Alright so this one was a bust for me. I didn't hate it, but it was a big disappointment. While I appreciate the author releasing the new content, I just didn't like the creative direction.
The problem really starts with book two when Parker and Adam go to Salvation Island. It started to feel like it was just the old world again, on a smaller scale. It took away from the special feel the first book had, and it definitely nerfed the excitement. When they fell into this community in book two, I couldn't help but feel like they would get stuck there. And from reading book 3, they did. I would have enjoyed Parker and Adam on their own (or with a smaller group) a lot more than this island environment.
I also felt the story in book three was relatively weak. It's a lot of politics with a very predictable outcome. It just lost its entertainment value, and Parker and Adam lost more of what made them special in book one. Interpersonal politics are hard to pull off in a book, in my opinion. On Salvation Island, they are basically back to the old world in many ways.
There's also a lot of unanswered threads. We still don't know how the virus/whatever happened or who was responsible. We don't know much about things from book one, like Ramon et al. I would have rather had story around those kinds of things than werewolf/human politics. I also think Eric was a weak character, and his redemption arc felt late and unsatisfying to me.
It's decently written, and someone who doesn't mind the direction (i.e. being a part of this mundane community, angst provided via group politics, etc.) will likely enjoy this book at lot more than me. I was just hoping for something more reminiscent of book one after book two took us a bit off course. But instead, book three made book two look even better than before.
---
So, to put all that together... the first book carries this series hardcore for me. I really do wish Adam and Parker got a better path than they did. I don't regret reading book two and three (I would have never been satisfied not knowing), but they will be mostly forgotten other than my generic disdain for Salvation Island. Book one will always be an incredible treasure!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The first book, Kick at the Darkness, is incredible. It's well-paced, exciting, and Parker/Adam are fucking hot together. Their relationship is really cute, despite the situation they're in (i.e. end of the world). The character and relationship development are exceptional. It just works.
This is one of my favorite books ever, truly. A werewolf taking care of and protecting his human boyfriend, and the human boyfriend loving his wolf and teaching him to love himself since Adam struggles with that. And their sex is very hot. Yep, all of that, right up my alley.
Some reviews of this book say its brutal and horror. Don't let them scare you off. Reading those, you'd be expecting to read on-page torture. That's not the case at all. There's a few moderately graphic scenes of people turning into "zombies", general mention of blood, etc., but it's very far from horror and what I'd consider "brutal". It's mild compared to a lot of things I read. Go pick up a Sienna Moreau book and see what gore and violence are with heads literally rolling and people bursting into flames lol.
Anyway, I really fucking love this book. 5 stars from me, added to my favorites-of-all-time short list.
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Book two, Fight the Tide, is not terrible, but it's definitely different. It's much slower, with Parker and Adam being at sea most of the time. For me, that environment took away some of the excitement that was in book one. I also felt Parker and Adam had some personality changes in between book one and two. It felt a bit disjointed at times. Parker also got really annoying at a few different points, going the opposite direction I thought he'd be headed in maturity wise.
The sex and relationship was still pretty good, though. Some reviewers have said they were put off by the fisting scene (yes, there's one in book two and one in book three) and that it came out of nowhere, but I disagree. It fits really well with Adam's anatomy... he's a werewolf that heals incredibly fast. His body is plenty capable of getting his guts punched (on the inside) without any pain lasting more than just a second or two. He needs that extra stimulation, something no one has ever given him, and Parker is very willing and excited to provide that for him. It was a very nice addition to their dynamic, I felt, and the scene is smoking hot. 🔥🔥
Salvation Island is a whole thing that I'll talk about with book three below, but just know it was an issue in this book too. Overall, book two was a let down but not a huge one. A solid 3.5 for me.
⭐️⭐️
Book three, Defy the Future. Alright so this one was a bust for me. I didn't hate it, but it was a big disappointment. While I appreciate the author releasing the new content, I just didn't like the creative direction.
The problem really starts with book two when Parker and Adam go to Salvation Island. It started to feel like it was just the old world again, on a smaller scale. It took away from the special feel the first book had, and it definitely nerfed the excitement. When they fell into this community in book two, I couldn't help but feel like they would get stuck there. And from reading book 3, they did. I would have enjoyed Parker and Adam on their own (or with a smaller group) a lot more than this island environment.
I also felt the story in book three was relatively weak. It's a lot of politics with a very predictable outcome. It just lost its entertainment value, and Parker and Adam lost more of what made them special in book one. Interpersonal politics are hard to pull off in a book, in my opinion. On Salvation Island, they are basically back to the old world in many ways.
There's also a lot of unanswered threads. We still don't know how the virus/whatever happened or who was responsible. We don't know much about things from book one, like Ramon et al. I would have rather had story around those kinds of things than werewolf/human politics. I also think Eric was a weak character, and his redemption arc felt late and unsatisfying to me.
It's decently written, and someone who doesn't mind the direction (i.e. being a part of this mundane community, angst provided via group politics, etc.) will likely enjoy this book at lot more than me. I was just hoping for something more reminiscent of book one after book two took us a bit off course. But instead, book three made book two look even better than before.
---
So, to put all that together... the first book carries this series hardcore for me. I really do wish Adam and Parker got a better path than they did. I don't regret reading book two and three (I would have never been satisfied not knowing), but they will be mostly forgotten other than my generic disdain for Salvation Island. Book one will always be an incredible treasure!
April 15, 2024
It was okay. Felt like it lasted longer than it needed too when more than half the book was full of Parker’s own emotional turmoil. I wish we could have gotten a bit of Adam’s POV or maybe Eric’s. It just fell short for me.
I would love Jacob and Devon’s story though!
I would love Jacob and Devon’s story though!
October 9, 2024
I was so excited when I found out the audio was coming out for this story. I had listened to book 1 and 2 on audio and really wanted to complete the series that way. The narrator did a great job again! Definitely recommend this series if you enjoy paranormal dystopian romances!
I enjoyed the ending to Adam and Parker’s story. They had been living on the island and happy for a while and of course some new people need to arrive and change that up! We have a lot of action and romance of course and it was great to see their HEA and the future epilogue!
Look forward to reading more by this author in the future!
I enjoyed the ending to Adam and Parker’s story. They had been living on the island and happy for a while and of course some new people need to arrive and change that up! We have a lot of action and romance of course and it was great to see their HEA and the future epilogue!
Look forward to reading more by this author in the future!
August 18, 2024
Racked by a sob, he closed his eyes and collapsed to the ground, stones and twigs digging into his skin. "Parker!" His cry was barely a whisper as memories of Parker filled his mind. Images of smiling, laughing, crying, coming. His beautiful lover. His love. His mate.
Reading a whole trilogy about the same couple is not always great, but in this case, it was the exact opposite. I could read hundreds of books about Adam and Parker living and surviving the zombie apocalypse.
The levels of anxiety this book gave me are no joke! But Parker and I were letting our paranoia get the best of us, and I'll admit I had the same suspicions and doubts as him, but alas, it's the zombie apocalypses, if you are not anxious are you even alive?
It's amazing that even if the angst levels were off the roof, you never doubt the love Adam and Parker feel for each other, the world can be literally collapsing but as long as they are together you know everything will be all right.
There are a million moments between them in this series that it's hard to choose one favorite, but Parker telling Adam that he wants him, all of him and Adam feeling the love and devotion he has for Parker has to be my number one.
Reading a whole trilogy about the same couple is not always great, but in this case, it was the exact opposite. I could read hundreds of books about Adam and Parker living and surviving the zombie apocalypse.
The levels of anxiety this book gave me are no joke! But Parker and I were letting our paranoia get the best of us, and I'll admit I had the same suspicions and doubts as him, but alas, it's the zombie apocalypses, if you are not anxious are you even alive?
It's amazing that even if the angst levels were off the roof, you never doubt the love Adam and Parker feel for each other, the world can be literally collapsing but as long as they are together you know everything will be all right.
There are a million moments between them in this series that it's hard to choose one favorite, but Parker telling Adam that he wants him, all of him and Adam feeling the love and devotion he has for Parker has to be my number one.
January 11, 2024
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.75 stars
Defy the Future is the third book in Keira Andrews’ amazing Kick at the Darkness series. The books have an overarching plot with many suspenseful elements and so this review will have some spoilers for prior books. I can highly recommend this series about two men finding love amidst the zombie apocalypse, so check out my spoiler-free review for the first book, Kick at the Darkness, if you are just getting started.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
4.75 stars
Defy the Future is the third book in Keira Andrews’ amazing Kick at the Darkness series. The books have an overarching plot with many suspenseful elements and so this review will have some spoilers for prior books. I can highly recommend this series about two men finding love amidst the zombie apocalypse, so check out my spoiler-free review for the first book, Kick at the Darkness, if you are just getting started.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
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