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Fire Between Us #1
When We Ignite
They were never supposed to happen.
From the moment their paths cross, the attraction between them is undeniable—but completely forbidden.
Ash Langley is the heir to an empire built on luxury and wealth, a man trapped between a father who refuses to loosen his grip and the crushing weight of his own expectations. As if that weren’t enough, his younger brother, Oliver, is about to marry Charlotte Bennett, further complicating his standing within the company.
Ethan Bennett is just beginning to taste freedom, still drifting as he tries to figure out what he wants from life—who he really is. He’s spent years keeping his emotions at arm’s length, speaking softly, avoiding strong opinions, unwilling to face the fire burning inside him.
But when Ash looks at him—really looks at him—everything changes.
Ash is dangerous—not just because he’s fifteen years older or because their relationship could spark a scandal that would destroy everything, but because he awakens a desire in Ethan that he’s never been ready to admit.
For Ash, Ethan is an escape. For Ethan, Ash is the spark that forces him to confront what he truly wants.
Between secrets, stolen moments, and a battle for control, their relationship becomes a dangerous game where the lines between right and inevitable begin to blur.
How long can they play with fire before it consumes them completely?
This is book one of a duet. While it offers a complete emotional arc, it does not end with a happily ever after and concludes on a cliffhanger.
From the moment their paths cross, the attraction between them is undeniable—but completely forbidden.
Ash Langley is the heir to an empire built on luxury and wealth, a man trapped between a father who refuses to loosen his grip and the crushing weight of his own expectations. As if that weren’t enough, his younger brother, Oliver, is about to marry Charlotte Bennett, further complicating his standing within the company.
Ethan Bennett is just beginning to taste freedom, still drifting as he tries to figure out what he wants from life—who he really is. He’s spent years keeping his emotions at arm’s length, speaking softly, avoiding strong opinions, unwilling to face the fire burning inside him.
But when Ash looks at him—really looks at him—everything changes.
Ash is dangerous—not just because he’s fifteen years older or because their relationship could spark a scandal that would destroy everything, but because he awakens a desire in Ethan that he’s never been ready to admit.
For Ash, Ethan is an escape. For Ethan, Ash is the spark that forces him to confront what he truly wants.
Between secrets, stolen moments, and a battle for control, their relationship becomes a dangerous game where the lines between right and inevitable begin to blur.
How long can they play with fire before it consumes them completely?
This is book one of a duet. While it offers a complete emotional arc, it does not end with a happily ever after and concludes on a cliffhanger.
450 pages, ebook
First published April 30, 2025
274 people are currently reading
2204 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 229 reviews
May 1, 2025
I had a shocking amount of fun with this book. I said at 10% mark that the vibe I was getting from this was the horny love child between 'Cruel Intentions' and 'Succession' and I stand by those vibes still.
I really enjoyed Cross' debut 'Echos of Us' and this book has really just cemented her place as an auto-buy author for me, as she takes the skill she displayed in her debut and built upon it to deliver a great final product.
I'll be honest, this is not a complicated story. 19 year old Ethan, a college student, and 34 year old Sebastian (Ash), the CEO of his father's investment business, meet due to their siblings getting engaged and married. From the very first meeting Ethan and Ash share an immediate magnetic connection and shortly find themselves embarking on an intimate and forbidden love affair that neither of them expect.
I feel like it should speak volumes about the skill of storytelling and character work at play here that Cross has taken a trope I'm lackluster for, and the same age gap that made me DNF a book a few weeks ago, and tuned it into a 5 star time that had me staying up late cause I was having such a good time with it.
Its worth noting that this is a duology, and there is what I am loosely calling a cliffhanger (the story is clearly not done but things aren't left on a held breath moment) BUT I AM FUCKING HANGING FOR THE SEQUEL. GIMME GIMME GIMME PLEASE I BEG.
Thank you to the author for providing me an eArc of this book (TODAY IS ITS RELEASE DAY 🥳) These are my honest thoughts and opinions.
I really enjoyed Cross' debut 'Echos of Us' and this book has really just cemented her place as an auto-buy author for me, as she takes the skill she displayed in her debut and built upon it to deliver a great final product.
I'll be honest, this is not a complicated story. 19 year old Ethan, a college student, and 34 year old Sebastian (Ash), the CEO of his father's investment business, meet due to their siblings getting engaged and married. From the very first meeting Ethan and Ash share an immediate magnetic connection and shortly find themselves embarking on an intimate and forbidden love affair that neither of them expect.
I feel like it should speak volumes about the skill of storytelling and character work at play here that Cross has taken a trope I'm lackluster for, and the same age gap that made me DNF a book a few weeks ago, and tuned it into a 5 star time that had me staying up late cause I was having such a good time with it.
Its worth noting that this is a duology, and there is what I am loosely calling a cliffhanger (the story is clearly not done but things aren't left on a held breath moment) BUT I AM FUCKING HANGING FOR THE SEQUEL. GIMME GIMME GIMME PLEASE I BEG.
Thank you to the author for providing me an eArc of this book (TODAY IS ITS RELEASE DAY 🥳) These are my honest thoughts and opinions.
May 6, 2025
6 ⭐️
spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️.5/5
format: ebook
”’you came when i didn’t know i needed you,’ he said softly. ‘and you didn’t like it when i was quiet.’”
main tropes:
➣ age gap
➣ forbidden/secret romance
➣ brother-in-law
➣ bi-awakening
➣ fuck buddies to lovers
alex cross has done it again, and if this isn’t one of my top 5 reads of this year then i will be shocked.
ethan bennett’s life is thrown into disarray when he meets sebastian langley: the older brother of his sister’s fiancé, and the man on a mission to make him question every single thing he thought he knew about himself. what starts as initial mutual attraction turns into a pull towards one another neither of them can fight.
↳”i felt like a mouse staring into a trap, only to realize that escape was impossible. i was already ensnared.”
ash is used to control and surface-level flings, and he expects no different with ethan. what he wasn’t banking on was charlotte’s shy little brother to have a fire inside that matches his own. their push and pull, and overall possessiveness over each other was so addicting. actually, “addicting” is a pretty apt term to summarize this entire book. because ethan and ash were completely inebriated with each other.
↳“ethan had shifted the balance. somehow, without even trying, he was calling the shots. and i was letting him. that part was new.”
a friends with benefits arrangement slowly shifts over time to more and more sweet moments where both ash and ethan drop their walls and became a safe space for one another. while sebastian is much older, he still comes to lean on ethan just as much as ethan has on him. ash has spent so long taking care of his family, he’s completely forgotten what it feels like to be a little selfish.
↳“for the first time in what felt like forever, i wanted something to be mine—over the company, over our father, over [my brothers].”
i of course also have to give a shout out to the spice in this story. every aspect that worked so well for their relationship: their chemistry, their dependency, even their banter and their fighting…all was reflected in how they fit together so perfectly in the bedroom. i also say “bedroom” quite loosely, because they fucked pretty much everywhere. but i also hate saying the word “fucked”—to me it felt like they made love from the very first time.
↳“he held me there for what felt like hours, my body begging for release while he kept holding me back, keeping his thrusts slow and even. i both loved and hated how he held me in that place, refusing to let me fall over the edge.”
alex has been very open about the fact that ethan and ash’s story is a duet, and that the first installment does not end with a happily ever after. i went into this knowing that, and got my feelings hurt anyway. but i honestly don’t regret a single thing because i know the pain will be worth it when we finally get the next book. if you can’t handle a cliffhanger, i would suggest waiting until the second book is out before starting this one. but as someone who hates waiting for a hea, i was sad but content with what we got of these boys so far.
↳”’i’m so sorry—for all of it. for being the reason your life has been ripped open like this. but you need to know this: you are the best thing that has ever happened to me. unexpected, yes. but i have never, not for a single second, regretted you.’”
i will be sitting here waiting for the next book for the foreseeable future. i’ve also already gone back and started rereading my highlights and some of my favorite chapters. i fear i will not be moving on from these boys anytime soon. i will also be eagerly awaiting henry’s book because he was such a wonderful side character and i need him to be safe and happy.
other little notes to mention:
➣ the best first kiss scene i’ve ever read
➣ unmatched emotional intimacy and physical chemistry
➣ realistic conversations about age gap romances like differences in maturity and concerns around power dynamics
➣ ”my darling” which i now love more than “baby”
”it was real. every second of it. nothing about this was an act. god-fucking-damn it. when had i let this get so out of hand?”
*i received a free, advanced copy of this book from the author and this is my voluntary, honest review.
bookstagram | booktok
spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️.5/5
format: ebook
”’you came when i didn’t know i needed you,’ he said softly. ‘and you didn’t like it when i was quiet.’”
main tropes:
➣ age gap
➣ forbidden/secret romance
➣ brother-in-law
➣ bi-awakening
➣ fuck buddies to lovers
alex cross has done it again, and if this isn’t one of my top 5 reads of this year then i will be shocked.
ethan bennett’s life is thrown into disarray when he meets sebastian langley: the older brother of his sister’s fiancé, and the man on a mission to make him question every single thing he thought he knew about himself. what starts as initial mutual attraction turns into a pull towards one another neither of them can fight.
↳”i felt like a mouse staring into a trap, only to realize that escape was impossible. i was already ensnared.”
ash is used to control and surface-level flings, and he expects no different with ethan. what he wasn’t banking on was charlotte’s shy little brother to have a fire inside that matches his own. their push and pull, and overall possessiveness over each other was so addicting. actually, “addicting” is a pretty apt term to summarize this entire book. because ethan and ash were completely inebriated with each other.
↳“ethan had shifted the balance. somehow, without even trying, he was calling the shots. and i was letting him. that part was new.”
a friends with benefits arrangement slowly shifts over time to more and more sweet moments where both ash and ethan drop their walls and became a safe space for one another. while sebastian is much older, he still comes to lean on ethan just as much as ethan has on him. ash has spent so long taking care of his family, he’s completely forgotten what it feels like to be a little selfish.
↳“for the first time in what felt like forever, i wanted something to be mine—over the company, over our father, over [my brothers].”
i of course also have to give a shout out to the spice in this story. every aspect that worked so well for their relationship: their chemistry, their dependency, even their banter and their fighting…all was reflected in how they fit together so perfectly in the bedroom. i also say “bedroom” quite loosely, because they fucked pretty much everywhere. but i also hate saying the word “fucked”—to me it felt like they made love from the very first time.
↳“he held me there for what felt like hours, my body begging for release while he kept holding me back, keeping his thrusts slow and even. i both loved and hated how he held me in that place, refusing to let me fall over the edge.”
alex has been very open about the fact that ethan and ash’s story is a duet, and that the first installment does not end with a happily ever after. i went into this knowing that, and got my feelings hurt anyway. but i honestly don’t regret a single thing because i know the pain will be worth it when we finally get the next book. if you can’t handle a cliffhanger, i would suggest waiting until the second book is out before starting this one. but as someone who hates waiting for a hea, i was sad but content with what we got of these boys so far.
↳”’i’m so sorry—for all of it. for being the reason your life has been ripped open like this. but you need to know this: you are the best thing that has ever happened to me. unexpected, yes. but i have never, not for a single second, regretted you.’”
i will be sitting here waiting for the next book for the foreseeable future. i’ve also already gone back and started rereading my highlights and some of my favorite chapters. i fear i will not be moving on from these boys anytime soon. i will also be eagerly awaiting henry’s book because he was such a wonderful side character and i need him to be safe and happy.
other little notes to mention:
➣ the best first kiss scene i’ve ever read
➣ unmatched emotional intimacy and physical chemistry
➣ realistic conversations about age gap romances like differences in maturity and concerns around power dynamics
➣ ”my darling” which i now love more than “baby”
”it was real. every second of it. nothing about this was an act. god-fucking-damn it. when had i let this get so out of hand?”
*i received a free, advanced copy of this book from the author and this is my voluntary, honest review.
bookstagram | booktok
May 6, 2025
DNF @42 %
The tension between me and wanting to strangle these characters is unreal 😊
The tension between me and wanting to strangle these characters is unreal 😊
August 3, 2025
Might be the best book that I have read for this year. I may have expanded my book tastes to other genres but this book reminded me that I will always be a mm romance reader above all. The conflict, drama, banter, and heartbreak? Divine. Fucking. Mouthwatering.
May 28, 2025
When We Ignite is book one of a duet in A Fire Between Us. This MM age gap, forbidden romance story is about Sebastian and Ethan.
Wow. I am having a hard time trying to describe how much I loved this book. This is one of those books that I couldn’t put down. And now that I finished, I can’t stop thinking about it. I knew this was a duet and I thought I was prepared for how this book might end, but leave it to me to be upset and want more. I NEED book two. I definitely cannot wait for the continuation of Sebastian and Ethan’s story.
Wow. I am having a hard time trying to describe how much I loved this book. This is one of those books that I couldn’t put down. And now that I finished, I can’t stop thinking about it. I knew this was a duet and I thought I was prepared for how this book might end, but leave it to me to be upset and want more. I NEED book two. I definitely cannot wait for the continuation of Sebastian and Ethan’s story.
June 14, 2025
Відгук буде трохи пізніше. Але це супер. Дуже сподобалося
UPD 02.05.2025:
Це друга книжка авторки, яку я читала. І я у повній любові. Тепер все, що буде виходити у Алекс буде автоматично куплятися.
Якщо чесно, то не знаю як у неї виходить так відчувати людські емоції. Я дійсно вірила, що ця історія може бути. Наче абсурд. 19 і 34 роки. Ну що там може бути спільного? Але ні, це все працювало. Не без перешкод, звісно. А як інакше? Це ж різні покоління. Але воно працювало.
І це відчуття від всіх "вперше". Перший поцілунок, перші доторки, перший секс, вся ця ніяковість і всі бажання, коли заборона знята, а межа перетнута. Ну і звісно перше почуття... Пишу і знову переживаю всі ті емоції.
Знаєте, неможливо про цю книжку писати без спойлерів. Бо по суті вона виключно про стосунки і сюжет танцює навколо них. Але який же це гарний танок 😍
З нетерпінням чекаю на 2 книжку (продовження історії Ітана та Еша). Але якщо ви захочете зупинитися на першій, то це цілком можна зробити.
UPD 02.05.2025:
Це друга книжка авторки, яку я читала. І я у повній любові. Тепер все, що буде виходити у Алекс буде автоматично куплятися.
Якщо чесно, то не знаю як у неї виходить так відчувати людські емоції. Я дійсно вірила, що ця історія може бути. Наче абсурд. 19 і 34 роки. Ну що там може бути спільного? Але ні, це все працювало. Не без перешкод, звісно. А як інакше? Це ж різні покоління. Але воно працювало.
І це відчуття від всіх "вперше". Перший поцілунок, перші доторки, перший секс, вся ця ніяковість і всі бажання, коли заборона знята, а межа перетнута. Ну і звісно перше почуття... Пишу і знову переживаю всі ті емоції.
Знаєте, неможливо про цю книжку писати без спойлерів. Бо по суті вона виключно про стосунки і сюжет танцює навколо них. Але який же це гарний танок 😍
З нетерпінням чекаю на 2 книжку (продовження історії Ітана та Еша). Але якщо ви захочете зупинитися на першій, то це цілком можна зробити.
Read
May 3, 2025DNF @ 52% - really adore all the characters and the vibes but it’s just too long and dragged out I think. Would be a great TV series.
April 21, 2025
I was thrilled to be an ARC reader for this (I definitely squealed when I got the email from Alex Cross). I LOVED Echoes of Us and couldn't believe it was a debut book. I received my copy of When we Ignite on Friday and probably would have be done by Saturday if not for kids soccer games and Easter weekend... blah blah... adulting and life - damn it 😉
To start - I have a really hard time with age gaps when one of the MC is a teenager. My husband is a high school art teacher, and those are the "kids" he teaches. I knew as soon we were introduced to Ethan and found out he was 19 that I was going to struggle a bit. In my head I was like... no... can't he at least be 21 😉, but of course that "19" is pivotal to the whole story. What I did appreciate was how the author tackled that by not pretending it was "normal" for a teenager and a 30-something. When Ethan's dad finds out, he mentions "grooming" and that felt like a REAL reaction. I appreciated that it was realistic and messy, if that makes sense.
Bear with me while I make this comparison - Alex Cross reminds me of C.E. Ricci (who is one of my absolute favorite authors). There is something magical in C.E. Ricci's writing, and Alex Cross has that same quality. There is a book by Ricci - Follow the River - where a rape happens between the MCs; the MC who was the aggressor apologizes, feels awful, and the other MC says it wasn't really rape and he could have stopped him... basically - it's ok and I forgive you. Despite that, and despite if that were in any other book I probably would have stopped reading, Ricci made me forget it happened and I still loved the book. As in, I've read it 3 times and those two are one of my favorite couples of all time. Now, that says A LOT about the author, right?! Like... this magic ability to put you in a trance with beautiful writing and just pull you in. I am so excited to find another author in Alex Cross - who has this ability. It’s rare.
The dialogue, chemistry, tension, and emotion is written so beautifully, truthful, and real. I can SEE the characters - especially Sebastian. I also love that Cross didn't try to make the 19 and 34 just magically work, and that the book is skipping ahead 4 years - even though I'm dying for the next book! That was just mean, Alex Cross 😉
Also, who else is hoping we're correct in it seeming like there might be a book for Henry?
Cover is gorgeous, writing is superb, and I can't wait to read more by Alex Cross. Thank you so much for having me as an ARC reader. Absolutely honored.
To start - I have a really hard time with age gaps when one of the MC is a teenager. My husband is a high school art teacher, and those are the "kids" he teaches. I knew as soon we were introduced to Ethan and found out he was 19 that I was going to struggle a bit. In my head I was like... no... can't he at least be 21 😉, but of course that "19" is pivotal to the whole story. What I did appreciate was how the author tackled that by not pretending it was "normal" for a teenager and a 30-something. When Ethan's dad finds out, he mentions "grooming" and that felt like a REAL reaction. I appreciated that it was realistic and messy, if that makes sense.
Bear with me while I make this comparison - Alex Cross reminds me of C.E. Ricci (who is one of my absolute favorite authors). There is something magical in C.E. Ricci's writing, and Alex Cross has that same quality. There is a book by Ricci - Follow the River - where a rape happens between the MCs; the MC who was the aggressor apologizes, feels awful, and the other MC says it wasn't really rape and he could have stopped him... basically - it's ok and I forgive you. Despite that, and despite if that were in any other book I probably would have stopped reading, Ricci made me forget it happened and I still loved the book. As in, I've read it 3 times and those two are one of my favorite couples of all time. Now, that says A LOT about the author, right?! Like... this magic ability to put you in a trance with beautiful writing and just pull you in. I am so excited to find another author in Alex Cross - who has this ability. It’s rare.
The dialogue, chemistry, tension, and emotion is written so beautifully, truthful, and real. I can SEE the characters - especially Sebastian. I also love that Cross didn't try to make the 19 and 34 just magically work, and that the book is skipping ahead 4 years - even though I'm dying for the next book! That was just mean, Alex Cross 😉
Also, who else is hoping we're correct in it seeming like there might be a book for Henry?
Cover is gorgeous, writing is superb, and I can't wait to read more by Alex Cross. Thank you so much for having me as an ARC reader. Absolutely honored.
April 4, 2025
Ethan and Ash are EVERYTHING.
I was lucky enough to beta read this book, and when I say there were times I forgot to give feedback because I was too busy giggling and kicking my feet, I mean it.
Ethan is this fiery, spunky man who quite literally doesn't roll over for anyone. He honestly is a Roman Empire character for me. He's strong-willed and often times hilarious, but also sometimes heartbreaking. Alex did an amazing job of making him feel nuanced and real.
And Ash. Ash is convinced he's above love. Convinced he's above catching feelings and basically refuses to do it, but un(fortunately) for him, he didn't have much of a choice. The way he fell head over heels and dropped his barriers just a little at a time was so sweet to watch. The small moments of vulnerability he showed made me love him so much.
Alex has done an amazing job with this one. I also think I'll speak for everyone when I say we need Henry's book.
I can't wait for the second part of the duet to come out!
I was lucky enough to beta read this book, and when I say there were times I forgot to give feedback because I was too busy giggling and kicking my feet, I mean it.
Ethan is this fiery, spunky man who quite literally doesn't roll over for anyone. He honestly is a Roman Empire character for me. He's strong-willed and often times hilarious, but also sometimes heartbreaking. Alex did an amazing job of making him feel nuanced and real.
And Ash. Ash is convinced he's above love. Convinced he's above catching feelings and basically refuses to do it, but un(fortunately) for him, he didn't have much of a choice. The way he fell head over heels and dropped his barriers just a little at a time was so sweet to watch. The small moments of vulnerability he showed made me love him so much.
Alex has done an amazing job with this one. I also think I'll speak for everyone when I say we need Henry's book.
I can't wait for the second part of the duet to come out!
April 24, 2025
6 STARS! ONE OF MY FAV READS OF THE YEAR SO FAR!
This novel is a gut-wrenching, beautifully written exploration of forbidden love, emotional intensity, and the bittersweet ache of "right person, wrong time". Centered around a compelling age-gap romance, the story dives deep into the kind of connection that is rare and electrifying. You will feel the chemistry jumping off the pages, at every stolen glance, whispered confession and every stolen moment. They continue to try, and fail, to stay away from each other.
The complications of family dynamics, societal judgment and personal baggage weave a tight web around their relationship, forcing them to make impossible choices. This book does not shy away from the pain. It doesn't give you a perfect ending tied with a bow, but it gives you a emotional and satisfying one. This is part 1 in a duet, so there is still a HEA coming eventually.
If you are into stories that are emotionally charged, slightly tragic and leave you thinking long after the last page, this one's for you. Just be prepared to cry.
This novel is a gut-wrenching, beautifully written exploration of forbidden love, emotional intensity, and the bittersweet ache of "right person, wrong time". Centered around a compelling age-gap romance, the story dives deep into the kind of connection that is rare and electrifying. You will feel the chemistry jumping off the pages, at every stolen glance, whispered confession and every stolen moment. They continue to try, and fail, to stay away from each other.
The complications of family dynamics, societal judgment and personal baggage weave a tight web around their relationship, forcing them to make impossible choices. This book does not shy away from the pain. It doesn't give you a perfect ending tied with a bow, but it gives you a emotional and satisfying one. This is part 1 in a duet, so there is still a HEA coming eventually.
If you are into stories that are emotionally charged, slightly tragic and leave you thinking long after the last page, this one's for you. Just be prepared to cry.
June 1, 2025
5⭐️ omg!!!!!
I’m literally crashing out over this book I am OBSESSED with this?!! And I had no idea it’s just part one and book two isn’t out yet, I am going to go insane waiting for book two oh NO!!!
This book is absolutely magnetic, I don’t know how else to describe it. Basically we have a well-off couple getting married, and both of their families are meeting for the first time. But the groom’s older brother Sebastian immediately takes interest in the bride’s younger brother, Ethan. Ethan is young and inexperienced, and somehow absolutely enthralled by the suave Sebastian.
You’re going to get the following in this book:
-taboo age gap (19 and 34)
-forbidden relationship
-character-focused plot
-a slow descent into mutual obsession that’s unhealthy but absolutely addictive
-manipulative behaviour
-supportive siblings
-push and pull like you won’t believe
I vibed with this book SO HARD! The attention to detail, the way every interaction is described in such detail, the raw intimacy they have, the way they SPEAK to each other. The characters feel so real, the way they react and the way they’re flawed. They dance around each other deliciously that when they finally break the tension it’s CRAZY.
You also get this background feeling of anxiety through the whole book because it’s so forbidden, and you know something is coming, but you can’t look away. The end left me literally screaming. I need book two IMMEDIATELY ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Best book I’ve read in a while. Dang! This book is critically underrated and more people need to read it.
I’m literally crashing out over this book I am OBSESSED with this?!! And I had no idea it’s just part one and book two isn’t out yet, I am going to go insane waiting for book two oh NO!!!
This book is absolutely magnetic, I don’t know how else to describe it. Basically we have a well-off couple getting married, and both of their families are meeting for the first time. But the groom’s older brother Sebastian immediately takes interest in the bride’s younger brother, Ethan. Ethan is young and inexperienced, and somehow absolutely enthralled by the suave Sebastian.
You’re going to get the following in this book:
-taboo age gap (19 and 34)
-forbidden relationship
-character-focused plot
-a slow descent into mutual obsession that’s unhealthy but absolutely addictive
-manipulative behaviour
-supportive siblings
-push and pull like you won’t believe
I vibed with this book SO HARD! The attention to detail, the way every interaction is described in such detail, the raw intimacy they have, the way they SPEAK to each other. The characters feel so real, the way they react and the way they’re flawed. They dance around each other deliciously that when they finally break the tension it’s CRAZY.
You also get this background feeling of anxiety through the whole book because it’s so forbidden, and you know something is coming, but you can’t look away. The end left me literally screaming. I need book two IMMEDIATELY ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Best book I’ve read in a while. Dang! This book is critically underrated and more people need to read it.
August 15, 2025
For the sheer entertainment value alone, this book was fantastic. I know I'm enjoying a book when I start out-loud yelling at the characters and have to be like 'girl, these are fictional people created by the author, calm down'. Alex Cross managed to create some very real-feeling characters and I had an absolute blast reading about them, even when I was not rooting for them.
This is ostensibly a taboo, age gap romance between Sebastian 'Ash' Langley - heir to a billion dollar real estate company, and Ethan Bennett - his brother's nineteen-year-old soon-to-be brother in law. Ash, at first, comes off as arrogant and almost predatory as he pursues the much younger Ethan. He is used to getting his way and he wants Ethan, consequences be damned. Ethan is straight at the start of all this, but he is fascinated by Ash, and slowly gets sucked into his orbit. They both have moments of clarity where they realize what a colossally bad idea this is, but ultimately this is subsumed by sexual obsession and they embark on an extremely torrid affair that has the potential to ruin both of their lives. And you just known it's going to be messy and that feelings are going to be hurt. I live for this shit.
I mentioned before that I wasn't rooting for them - and I really wasn't. There's no universe in which I think it is morally okay for a 34yo to date a 19yo, but it didn't stop me from enjoying the hell out of the tension and the risk. I wanted them to get caught all the time so I could watch it blow up in their faces. At the same time though, we get humanizing glimpses of both of them that make it difficult to maintain that level of outrage. I think that speaks to Cross's skill as a writer. Their relationship also felt real in that they had fights where each character acted their age, you could sense that Ethan was so young and that this relationship was rewriting the course of his life.
This was a really fun book to read. Not necessarily in the content sense - but more for the drama. it reminded me a little of Scarlett Drake's writing, so if you like her stuff, then you'll probably enjoy this. There's a sequel planned, which is great news, I can't wait to see where she goes from here.
This is ostensibly a taboo, age gap romance between Sebastian 'Ash' Langley - heir to a billion dollar real estate company, and Ethan Bennett - his brother's nineteen-year-old soon-to-be brother in law. Ash, at first, comes off as arrogant and almost predatory as he pursues the much younger Ethan. He is used to getting his way and he wants Ethan, consequences be damned. Ethan is straight at the start of all this, but he is fascinated by Ash, and slowly gets sucked into his orbit. They both have moments of clarity where they realize what a colossally bad idea this is, but ultimately this is subsumed by sexual obsession and they embark on an extremely torrid affair that has the potential to ruin both of their lives. And you just known it's going to be messy and that feelings are going to be hurt. I live for this shit.
I mentioned before that I wasn't rooting for them - and I really wasn't. There's no universe in which I think it is morally okay for a 34yo to date a 19yo, but it didn't stop me from enjoying the hell out of the tension and the risk. I wanted them to get caught all the time so I could watch it blow up in their faces. At the same time though, we get humanizing glimpses of both of them that make it difficult to maintain that level of outrage. I think that speaks to Cross's skill as a writer. Their relationship also felt real in that they had fights where each character acted their age, you could sense that Ethan was so young and that this relationship was rewriting the course of his life.
This was a really fun book to read. Not necessarily in the content sense - but more for the drama. it reminded me a little of Scarlett Drake's writing, so if you like her stuff, then you'll probably enjoy this. There's a sequel planned, which is great news, I can't wait to see where she goes from here.
April 23, 2025
Well, this book probably changed my brain chemistry.
These MCs have a great age gap (15 years). Ethan & Ash are going to be brothers-in-law when this story starts. Ash is a charming guy, and he knows exactly what he wants-and it is Ethan 😏
It's save to say this journey was a rollercoaster for both of them and the push and pull game is strong. I gotta say, sometimes you may get a little frustrated over certain things but it is SO worth it.
I normally read a lot faster, but with this book I took my time. This book is, without a doubt, a huge favorite now. I clung to every word and the writing was a-m-a-z-i-n-g.
These MCs have a great age gap (15 years). Ethan & Ash are going to be brothers-in-law when this story starts. Ash is a charming guy, and he knows exactly what he wants-and it is Ethan 😏
It's save to say this journey was a rollercoaster for both of them and the push and pull game is strong. I gotta say, sometimes you may get a little frustrated over certain things but it is SO worth it.
I normally read a lot faster, but with this book I took my time. This book is, without a doubt, a huge favorite now. I clung to every word and the writing was a-m-a-z-i-n-g.
April 19, 2025
Ash + Ethan
-mm forbidden romance
-no strings attached
-secret relationship
-queer awakening
-age gap
ohhhh shittt! this was super painful emotionally but its gonna be so worth it i can tell!! im so obsessed with how obsessed ash is with ethan & then later how obsessed ethan becomes with ash...just overall we ALLLL OBSESSEDD UP IN HERE!! & i can't wait for the next book...but im scared cause really...that ending. hurt!
-mm forbidden romance
-no strings attached
-secret relationship
-queer awakening
-age gap
ohhhh shittt! this was super painful emotionally but its gonna be so worth it i can tell!! im so obsessed with how obsessed ash is with ethan & then later how obsessed ethan becomes with ash...just overall we ALLLL OBSESSEDD UP IN HERE!! & i can't wait for the next book...but im scared cause really...that ending. hurt!
April 30, 2025
Oh my god this book is literal fire! Read it! I went in to it super excited by the premise but when it started I was initially trying hard to find Ethan and Ash likeable, the first couple of chapters are fantastic- setting you up for the same confusion the characters are dealing with and it’s unfiltered and raw. Yet, there is this explosive chemistry and something about the writing and even the characters hooks you, you’re a little bit transfixed and then slowly mesmerisised. It’s such an ultra unique reading experience. The way these two grew on me - I love them!! So much!!
Ash and Ethan’s story is a slow burn to an inferno. Some of the hottest ever scenes I’ve read. Forbidden done superbly. And the characters are built up layer by layer their connection forging stronger and stronger, however you will not get the HEA you’re expecting.
Also on a side note I really related to Ash and his struggle with his work and family - it’s beautifully portrayed as are Ethan’s challenges.
Ash and Ethan’s story is a slow burn to an inferno. Some of the hottest ever scenes I’ve read. Forbidden done superbly. And the characters are built up layer by layer their connection forging stronger and stronger, however you will not get the HEA you’re expecting.
Also on a side note I really related to Ash and his struggle with his work and family - it’s beautifully portrayed as are Ethan’s challenges.
Read
August 6, 2025DNF 45%
I personally think the age gap is gross (19 - 34) and there’s not enough here for me to be able to overlook it. I’m simultaneously grossed out and bored. Sometimes if a book is good enough I can overlook age gaps because it is a book (not real life).
I don’t get it. I’m 37. A 19 year old, or even a 22 year old, is just a baby to me.
Edit: okay I skimmed to the end and stand by my decision, but also I’m so glad I didn’t enjoy this because the ending and 4 year later epilogue would have INFURIATED ME
I personally think the age gap is gross (19 - 34) and there’s not enough here for me to be able to overlook it. I’m simultaneously grossed out and bored. Sometimes if a book is good enough I can overlook age gaps because it is a book (not real life).
I don’t get it. I’m 37. A 19 year old, or even a 22 year old, is just a baby to me.
Edit: okay I skimmed to the end and stand by my decision, but also I’m so glad I didn’t enjoy this because the ending and 4 year later epilogue would have INFURIATED ME
August 3, 2025
ідеальний age gap!
April 24, 2025
“I’m not going to break you, but I do need you to bend,”
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
**FIVE “YOU’RE A F*CKING MASTERPIECE” STARS**
What’s my kink? What does it for me? It’s whatever Alex Cross put into this simmering, sexy, glorious piece of heaven. I’m a total simp for sexual tension and this book was like catnip to me. I’m having a hard time putting into words exactly how much this book catered to my tastes. I was an absolute simpering fool through the first half of the book. It was the most exquisite burn as the tension just kept stringing tighter and tighter.
“His hand returned to my waist, pulling me closer as he whispered, ‘Good boy.’ He kissed me softly before pulling away”
From the first chapter I was immediately CAPTIVATED by Ash. His whole...everything caught me hook, line, and sinker. Ethan never stood a chance. The flirting was peak. I could not help but smile and blush and giggle right along. I also couldn’t help but root for them.
I appreciated that Ash didn’t infantilize Ethan. Sure, he worried about his age and their age gap, but honestly? It needed to be worried about. Generally, if there’s a bigger age gap I prefer the younger party to at least be in their twenties. But, Ethan has been through his own stuff and though his immaturity shone through from time-to-time, it was a thing of beauty to see him start to come into himself. It never felt icky. It felt marvelous. Their whole dynamic. I loved that it wasn’t just Ash pushing Ethan out of his comfort zone. The growth went both ways and it was so heartwarming to witness.
“Handsome–that’s a word for a lot of people. But you? You’re fucking beautiful and that’s something else entirely. You look like a dream pulled straight from my imagination, yet even in my wildest thoughts, I don’t think I could've conjured someone as perfect as you.”
When everything comes to a head like I knew it would, I knew it was going to hurt. But…I get it. I understand. It feels necessary in that painful way difficult things do. Like I can’t even be mad (okay, maybe a little mad…at least on their behalf because come on this sucks). I’m outraged at the spin that was put on something so tender and loving and beautiful.
I await on the edge of my seat for the continuation of Ash and Ethan’s story.
Madrid.
*~I received an e-ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review~*
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
**FIVE “YOU’RE A F*CKING MASTERPIECE” STARS**
What’s my kink? What does it for me? It’s whatever Alex Cross put into this simmering, sexy, glorious piece of heaven. I’m a total simp for sexual tension and this book was like catnip to me. I’m having a hard time putting into words exactly how much this book catered to my tastes. I was an absolute simpering fool through the first half of the book. It was the most exquisite burn as the tension just kept stringing tighter and tighter.
“His hand returned to my waist, pulling me closer as he whispered, ‘Good boy.’ He kissed me softly before pulling away”
From the first chapter I was immediately CAPTIVATED by Ash. His whole...everything caught me hook, line, and sinker. Ethan never stood a chance. The flirting was peak. I could not help but smile and blush and giggle right along. I also couldn’t help but root for them.
I appreciated that Ash didn’t infantilize Ethan. Sure, he worried about his age and their age gap, but honestly? It needed to be worried about. Generally, if there’s a bigger age gap I prefer the younger party to at least be in their twenties. But, Ethan has been through his own stuff and though his immaturity shone through from time-to-time, it was a thing of beauty to see him start to come into himself. It never felt icky. It felt marvelous. Their whole dynamic. I loved that it wasn’t just Ash pushing Ethan out of his comfort zone. The growth went both ways and it was so heartwarming to witness.
“Handsome–that’s a word for a lot of people. But you? You’re fucking beautiful and that’s something else entirely. You look like a dream pulled straight from my imagination, yet even in my wildest thoughts, I don’t think I could've conjured someone as perfect as you.”
When everything comes to a head like I knew it would, I knew it was going to hurt. But…I get it. I understand. It feels necessary in that painful way difficult things do. Like I can’t even be mad (okay, maybe a little mad…at least on their behalf because come on this sucks). I’m outraged at the spin that was put on something so tender and loving and beautiful.
I await on the edge of my seat for the continuation of Ash and Ethan’s story.
Madrid.
*~I received an e-ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review~*
April 20, 2025
Alex Cross the beautiful evil woman that you are…
Echoes of Us remains one of my favourite books I’ve read so when I heard Alex was publishing a new book I JUMPED at the chance to be a part of the ARC team. Alex has the magical way about her writing that makes you feel everything the characters feel. You become so invested in the worlds she creates you can’t help but want to keep reading.
Ethan is the type of character you can’t help but love. The growth he goes through in such a beautiful thing to witness in such a short amount of time. From the very first moment he appears in front of Ash you can just TELL he’s got some depth to him. I usually have a hard time with an age gap romance because there always seems to be a clear imbalance of power. But for most of this book it was hard to remember he was so young. He was absolutely not what I expected him to be but he truly is a wonder to read.
Ash… poor, broken, scared little Ash. I had a hard time with this guy. While I understood 95% of his actions I couldn’t help but be mad about it anyways. The way he loves Ethan is magical and my heart broke for him everytime we were reminded truly how forbidden their romance was. I knew from the first page that he was the type of guy I was going to hate just as much as I loved him and I believe that is the best way to build a character for this specific genre.
The spice… oh boy does Alex have a way with the sex scenes. They find that perfect balance of giving you everything you need out of a scene without being drawn out and repetitive. The chemistry between these two is undeniable from the SECOND they lock eyes. I felt like I had been edged for years by the time they finally shared their first kiss and it was EVERYTHING.
I wasn’t prepared for the emotional distress this book would put me through. These boys stole my heart and watching the way they were treated near the end broke my heart for the both of them. Their love was obvious. Ethan’s dad is an evil evil man and I wasn’t prepared for exactly how awful he is. Given was we learn about the angel himself Henry, it hurt that much more. And that ending… OH BOY. I cannot wait for the second half of this duet so my boys can get their redemption. And once again, thank you Alex Cross for putting your gifts out into the world.
Echoes of Us remains one of my favourite books I’ve read so when I heard Alex was publishing a new book I JUMPED at the chance to be a part of the ARC team. Alex has the magical way about her writing that makes you feel everything the characters feel. You become so invested in the worlds she creates you can’t help but want to keep reading.
Ethan is the type of character you can’t help but love. The growth he goes through in such a beautiful thing to witness in such a short amount of time. From the very first moment he appears in front of Ash you can just TELL he’s got some depth to him. I usually have a hard time with an age gap romance because there always seems to be a clear imbalance of power. But for most of this book it was hard to remember he was so young. He was absolutely not what I expected him to be but he truly is a wonder to read.
Ash… poor, broken, scared little Ash. I had a hard time with this guy. While I understood 95% of his actions I couldn’t help but be mad about it anyways. The way he loves Ethan is magical and my heart broke for him everytime we were reminded truly how forbidden their romance was. I knew from the first page that he was the type of guy I was going to hate just as much as I loved him and I believe that is the best way to build a character for this specific genre.
The spice… oh boy does Alex have a way with the sex scenes. They find that perfect balance of giving you everything you need out of a scene without being drawn out and repetitive. The chemistry between these two is undeniable from the SECOND they lock eyes. I felt like I had been edged for years by the time they finally shared their first kiss and it was EVERYTHING.
I wasn’t prepared for the emotional distress this book would put me through. These boys stole my heart and watching the way they were treated near the end broke my heart for the both of them. Their love was obvious. Ethan’s dad is an evil evil man and I wasn’t prepared for exactly how awful he is. Given was we learn about the angel himself Henry, it hurt that much more. And that ending… OH BOY. I cannot wait for the second half of this duet so my boys can get their redemption. And once again, thank you Alex Cross for putting your gifts out into the world.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 8, 2025
I’m usually a a bit of cautious reader when it comes to the age gap trope. But the way this book was written. I didn’t need to be at all, it was all handled so well, it was everything I would want.
What I appreciated the most about ‘Ignite With Us’ was the clear absence of a power imbalance, between Ethan and Ash. I hate when the younger character is infantilised or treated as if they can't think for themselves. Ash tried to pull that line but Ethan shut that down so quickly, which I loved. In many ways, for me, Ethan had the upper hand, knowing what he wanted and asserting his independence.
Watching them navigate their feelings, fighting against them, and then inevitably succumbing to them was so good! Alex Cross really knows how to write the push and pull dynamic so damn well! I won't spoil too much, but this is a duet so the story ends on a cliffhanger (or maybe just a 'happy for now'?), either way I can’t wait for the next book for them!
I can't finish this review without screaming my love for Henry! He was an absolute delight, and his relationship with Ethan, as well as the brother’s relationships with each other, was a highlight. I need a book for HENRY!
What I appreciated the most about ‘Ignite With Us’ was the clear absence of a power imbalance, between Ethan and Ash. I hate when the younger character is infantilised or treated as if they can't think for themselves. Ash tried to pull that line but Ethan shut that down so quickly, which I loved. In many ways, for me, Ethan had the upper hand, knowing what he wanted and asserting his independence.
Watching them navigate their feelings, fighting against them, and then inevitably succumbing to them was so good! Alex Cross really knows how to write the push and pull dynamic so damn well! I won't spoil too much, but this is a duet so the story ends on a cliffhanger (or maybe just a 'happy for now'?), either way I can’t wait for the next book for them!
I can't finish this review without screaming my love for Henry! He was an absolute delight, and his relationship with Ethan, as well as the brother’s relationships with each other, was a highlight. I need a book for HENRY!
April 28, 2025
I don’t even know where to begin….
When We Ignite by Alex Cross absolutely shattered me—in the most breathtaking, soul-aching way.
Ash and Ethan’s relationship was not just a love story; it was an all-consuming force that pulled me under from the very first page and refused to let go.
Their story wasn’t something I merely read—it was something I felt, deep in my bones, in the hollows of my chest, in the spaces I didn’t know could hurt like that.🥹🥹🥹
I laughed. I cried. I raged. I ached. Every emotion in the human spectrum coursed through me as I followed them on their journey. There were moments that made me want to scream into the void, it was real, and it was unforgettable.
Ash and Ethan… God, how do I move on from them?
How do I just go on with life after experiencing something so powerful, so devastatingly beautiful?
Additionally-let me be perfectly clear: if I ever catch who hurt my boy Henry… I’m coming for them. No hesitation, no mercy.😡
I feel incredibly lucky and endlessly grateful to have been given the chance to read an advanced reader copy of this story.
Thank you Alex, truly, for giving me this gift—this masterpiece. Even with the warnings you gave, I still wanted to throw my Kindle out the window, because I had SO many feelings
I need more. I am clinging to the fact that there is more to come for Ash and Ethan. There has to be.💕💕
Alex, thank you for breaking me open and reminding me what it feels like to truly live inside a story. This one will stay with me forever.
When We Ignite by Alex Cross absolutely shattered me—in the most breathtaking, soul-aching way.
Ash and Ethan’s relationship was not just a love story; it was an all-consuming force that pulled me under from the very first page and refused to let go.
Their story wasn’t something I merely read—it was something I felt, deep in my bones, in the hollows of my chest, in the spaces I didn’t know could hurt like that.🥹🥹🥹
I laughed. I cried. I raged. I ached. Every emotion in the human spectrum coursed through me as I followed them on their journey. There were moments that made me want to scream into the void, it was real, and it was unforgettable.
Ash and Ethan… God, how do I move on from them?
How do I just go on with life after experiencing something so powerful, so devastatingly beautiful?
Additionally-let me be perfectly clear: if I ever catch who hurt my boy Henry… I’m coming for them. No hesitation, no mercy.😡
I feel incredibly lucky and endlessly grateful to have been given the chance to read an advanced reader copy of this story.
Thank you Alex, truly, for giving me this gift—this masterpiece. Even with the warnings you gave, I still wanted to throw my Kindle out the window, because I had SO many feelings
I need more. I am clinging to the fact that there is more to come for Ash and Ethan. There has to be.💕💕
Alex, thank you for breaking me open and reminding me what it feels like to truly live inside a story. This one will stay with me forever.
October 3, 2025
shut up, what is Alex Cross putting in these books because I'm obsessed
April 23, 2025
ARC read 📚
The Angst 👌
I was really excited to read another one of Alex's books after reading Echoes of Us.
It did not disappoint.
It's forbidden
It's age-gap
It's secret relationship
I loved Ash from the get-go. Straight forward. Knows what he wants, and want he doesn't. Enter E, throwing all his restraints out the god-damn window.
It took me a minute to warm to E, however when his story about his family came out, I saw all the pieces slot into place. Everything made sense! E has so much hidden depth to him and it was amazing to see him become himself, forcing Ash giving up control just enough to bring that side of him out!
I think Charlotte was amazingly written too! Supporting big sister that voiced her concerns but ultimately supported E with moving forward.
Henry. HENRY. I love him. Please can we protect him at all costs?
And I think we all know, it's going to be Madrid 😩❤️
The Angst 👌
I was really excited to read another one of Alex's books after reading Echoes of Us.
It did not disappoint.
It's forbidden
It's age-gap
It's secret relationship
I loved Ash from the get-go. Straight forward. Knows what he wants, and want he doesn't. Enter E, throwing all his restraints out the god-damn window.
It took me a minute to warm to E, however when his story about his family came out, I saw all the pieces slot into place. Everything made sense! E has so much hidden depth to him and it was amazing to see him become himself, forcing Ash giving up control just enough to bring that side of him out!
I think Charlotte was amazingly written too! Supporting big sister that voiced her concerns but ultimately supported E with moving forward.
Henry. HENRY. I love him. Please can we protect him at all costs?
And I think we all know, it's going to be Madrid 😩❤️
August 1, 2025
4.5⭐️ I loved this so much more than I thought I would. Rtc
April 20, 2025
⭐♾️
Genre: M/M Romance
Format: eBook
Series: Part 1 of a Duet
Character Development: 4/5
Plot: 5/5
Writing Style: 5/5
Spice Level: 3.5/5
Overall Rating: ⭐♾️
Ash & Ethan were everything. I am obsessed. It's been almost 24 hours since I finished and I still can't get over them.
Alex has taken these two beautiful souls and made them real. My absolute favorite thing about this book is how it felt like I was reading a real story, with true emotions and real people. The characters are flawed with real emotions.
The INTIMACY, holy hell (and I am not talking about spice). Chapter 7 literally broke my brain. I was crying from simple touch. Everyone deserves a creep (iykyk) to love them the way Ash loves Ethan. That creep deserves a pet to love them just as much, to show them their worth and see the world in a way they deserve to live. Every time Ash uttered a "darling" Ethan's way, had my stomach swarming with butterflies EVERY. SINGLE. TIME.
Can we talk about Alex's writing of chapter 14? They either break you or turn you into a steamy mess. CHAPTER 14 in this book, freaking hell. 🥵🥵🥵
The ending hurt, but it needed to happen. It was meant to be. I need book 2 like I need air in my life. I am pretty sure I could read Alex's to do list and be content. Another amazing book that will keep me hungover for days.
• What to Expect •
💛 Age Gap
💛 Secret Relationship
💛 No-Strings Attached
💛 Forbidden Romance
💛 Mutual Obsession
💛 Queer Awakening
💛 Brothers in Law (No Cheating)
💛 Part 1 of a Duet - The story is not finished at the ending of this book.
Cheating:
Third-act breakup:
POV: Dual POV (First Person POV)
KU: Yes - Out April 30th
I received a copy of this book from the author and this is my honest review.
Genre: M/M Romance
Format: eBook
Series: Part 1 of a Duet
Character Development: 4/5
Plot: 5/5
Writing Style: 5/5
Spice Level: 3.5/5
Overall Rating: ⭐♾️
Ash & Ethan were everything. I am obsessed. It's been almost 24 hours since I finished and I still can't get over them.
Alex has taken these two beautiful souls and made them real. My absolute favorite thing about this book is how it felt like I was reading a real story, with true emotions and real people. The characters are flawed with real emotions.
The INTIMACY, holy hell (and I am not talking about spice). Chapter 7 literally broke my brain. I was crying from simple touch. Everyone deserves a creep (iykyk) to love them the way Ash loves Ethan. That creep deserves a pet to love them just as much, to show them their worth and see the world in a way they deserve to live. Every time Ash uttered a "darling" Ethan's way, had my stomach swarming with butterflies EVERY. SINGLE. TIME.
Can we talk about Alex's writing of chapter 14? They either break you or turn you into a steamy mess. CHAPTER 14 in this book, freaking hell. 🥵🥵🥵
The ending hurt, but it needed to happen. It was meant to be. I need book 2 like I need air in my life. I am pretty sure I could read Alex's to do list and be content. Another amazing book that will keep me hungover for days.
• What to Expect •
💛 Age Gap
💛 Secret Relationship
💛 No-Strings Attached
💛 Forbidden Romance
💛 Mutual Obsession
💛 Queer Awakening
💛 Brothers in Law (No Cheating)
💛 Part 1 of a Duet - The story is not finished at the ending of this book.
Cheating:
Third-act breakup:
POV: Dual POV (First Person POV)
KU: Yes - Out April 30th
I received a copy of this book from the author and this is my honest review.
September 29, 2025
When We Ignite is a scorching, emotionally charged romance that dives headfirst into forbidden desire. Alex Cross flawlessly portrayed an age gap relationship in a story that’s as addictive as it is heartfelt.
The book kicks off when Ash meets Ethan, the younger brother of his future sister-in-law. Ash is instantly drawn to Ethan, but his notorious playboy reputation precedes him, and everyone, including Ethan, is wary. Ethan, believing he’s straight, is thrown by the undeniable chemistry between them. What follows is an intense, angsty slow burn full of push and pull, self-discovery, and fiery passion.
I especially loved the way Cross portrayed the age gap dynamic. Ethan is 19, and his jealousy, impulsiveness, and emotional growth felt raw and real. Both characters are their own worst enemies, constantly resisting what they feel, which only makes their eventual moments together even more satisfying.
This story had me absolutely hooked. I devoured it and found myself completely obsessed with Ash and Ethan’s journey. The chemistry, the emotional tension, the heat, it’s all there. I’m already eagerly waiting to see where their story goes next.
ARC Review
The book kicks off when Ash meets Ethan, the younger brother of his future sister-in-law. Ash is instantly drawn to Ethan, but his notorious playboy reputation precedes him, and everyone, including Ethan, is wary. Ethan, believing he’s straight, is thrown by the undeniable chemistry between them. What follows is an intense, angsty slow burn full of push and pull, self-discovery, and fiery passion.
I especially loved the way Cross portrayed the age gap dynamic. Ethan is 19, and his jealousy, impulsiveness, and emotional growth felt raw and real. Both characters are their own worst enemies, constantly resisting what they feel, which only makes their eventual moments together even more satisfying.
This story had me absolutely hooked. I devoured it and found myself completely obsessed with Ash and Ethan’s journey. The chemistry, the emotional tension, the heat, it’s all there. I’m already eagerly waiting to see where their story goes next.
ARC Review
July 25, 2025
I want to read this all over again. The FLIRTING!!!! Excuse me while I blush and laugh and kick my feet! I’m not normally a big fan of age gap but this one WORKS! ahh I can’t wait for book two.
One of my fav reads of 2025.
One of my fav reads of 2025.
June 23, 2025
Ethan is a child and Ash is a walking red flag
June 8, 2025
When We Ignite – 3/5 ⭐️
When We Ignite is the second novel by Alex Cross and the first installment in a new duet. Told in dual POV, the story introduces readers to Ash Langley—heir to the prestigious Langley empire built on wealth and luxury—and Ethan Bennett, the younger brother of Ash’s soon-to-be sister-in-law.
Ethan is laid-back, curious, and mature though his youth and occasional impulsiveness still peek through. This is a forbidden, age-gap romance—and while age-gap stories aren’t always my go-to, I appreciated how Cross explored it. Is the age gap significant? Yes. Would I personally pursue a relationship with such an age gap? Not at 19... But it made me reflect. I thought about The Idea of You—another age gap romance where the woman was older by 20+ years. I thought about how Robinne Lee challenges double standards and prejudices about age and relationships. Stories with topics like such challenge me to examine the double standards we often hold. How is an older man with a younger girl okay (I mean people still have prejudice, I won’t deny that for any of this) but an older man with a younger male grooming and vice versa with a female partner as the “true adult”? As they say, age is just a number and Ethan was legally of age and a consenting adult.
I went into this book hoping to be as emotionally moved as I was with Cross’s debut, Echoes of Us (a rare 5-star read for me), but When We Ignite didn’t quite hit that same emotional depth. Ash initially entered the affair with shallow intentions, focused more on looks, but eventually developed real feelings. I appreciated his very very clear message about consent, which is important for readers to understand. Ethan, though described as impressionable, showed a strong sense of self and independence, as well as a compelling journey of self-discovery—his experience of coming to terms with his attraction to men was written with care and nuance. It was interesting to see the parallels between Ethan and Ash; their need for control but their willingness to break it for one another. There really wasn’t that dreaded power imbalance that frequents itself in age gap romances. If anything, Ethan’s confidence and independence took lead.
I liked the characters, especially the dynamics between the Langley brothers, and Charlotte was such a good older sister. I appreciated the semi emotional undertones—but I wanted a bit more oomph. Some of the intimate scenes felt repetitive or overextended, and I think the story could’ve benefitted from either diving deeper into those moments or pulling back on a few to make room for more character development and growth of the relationship beyond intimacy.
That said, I’m definitely intrigued to see where the duet goes next. The ending wasn’t a traditional HEA for Ash and Ethan, and I’m very curious to see how their story unfolds. I’ll absolutely be picking up the sequel!
When We Ignite is the second novel by Alex Cross and the first installment in a new duet. Told in dual POV, the story introduces readers to Ash Langley—heir to the prestigious Langley empire built on wealth and luxury—and Ethan Bennett, the younger brother of Ash’s soon-to-be sister-in-law.
Ethan is laid-back, curious, and mature though his youth and occasional impulsiveness still peek through. This is a forbidden, age-gap romance—and while age-gap stories aren’t always my go-to, I appreciated how Cross explored it. Is the age gap significant? Yes. Would I personally pursue a relationship with such an age gap? Not at 19... But it made me reflect. I thought about The Idea of You—another age gap romance where the woman was older by 20+ years. I thought about how Robinne Lee challenges double standards and prejudices about age and relationships. Stories with topics like such challenge me to examine the double standards we often hold. How is an older man with a younger girl okay (I mean people still have prejudice, I won’t deny that for any of this) but an older man with a younger male grooming and vice versa with a female partner as the “true adult”? As they say, age is just a number and Ethan was legally of age and a consenting adult.
I went into this book hoping to be as emotionally moved as I was with Cross’s debut, Echoes of Us (a rare 5-star read for me), but When We Ignite didn’t quite hit that same emotional depth. Ash initially entered the affair with shallow intentions, focused more on looks, but eventually developed real feelings. I appreciated his very very clear message about consent, which is important for readers to understand. Ethan, though described as impressionable, showed a strong sense of self and independence, as well as a compelling journey of self-discovery—his experience of coming to terms with his attraction to men was written with care and nuance. It was interesting to see the parallels between Ethan and Ash; their need for control but their willingness to break it for one another. There really wasn’t that dreaded power imbalance that frequents itself in age gap romances. If anything, Ethan’s confidence and independence took lead.
I liked the characters, especially the dynamics between the Langley brothers, and Charlotte was such a good older sister. I appreciated the semi emotional undertones—but I wanted a bit more oomph. Some of the intimate scenes felt repetitive or overextended, and I think the story could’ve benefitted from either diving deeper into those moments or pulling back on a few to make room for more character development and growth of the relationship beyond intimacy.
That said, I’m definitely intrigued to see where the duet goes next. The ending wasn’t a traditional HEA for Ash and Ethan, and I’m very curious to see how their story unfolds. I’ll absolutely be picking up the sequel!
April 28, 2025
4.25/5 stars 3.5/5 spice
I liked how well done the age gap was in this. Ethan is nineteen and his attitude and behaviour reflected that. His shyness and tentativeness at the beginning of their relationship made sense. Ash is thirty-four and although he had his impulsive and reckless moments, he was still a very calculated person weighing and knowing the risks beforehand. He also carried a lot of responsibility on his shoulders from his job and family.
Ash, Oli, and Henry’s brotherhood was one of my favourite relationships. These brothers were there for each other when they needed it, but also had their typical sibling spats. You couldn’t help but love Henry though, even his friendship with Ethan was special. Whenever he was in a scene it always made me smile. Alex if you’re reading this, please give me a Henry book.
I felt for Ethan. He got so swept up in Ash and you couldn’t blame him for falling for him so fast after all the chasing, flirting, tenderness, and attention he received. At times I wanted to strangle Ash for his unwarranted outbursts towards Ethan. However, once he was able to let down his walls, I loved how smitten he was and how willingly he opened up. After that I realised just how much these two needed each other.
I knew this was going to have a sad for now ending but my heart still broke. Just when things were going good, everything blew up. I am glad that Ash was able to help Ethan be comfortable and know who he is, and that Ash was able to focus on the things that mattered and do things that made him happy, all thanks to Ethan.
I can’t wait for them to reunite in the next book and see how their time apart has affected them. I need their happy ever after, after everything they’ve been through.
- Age gap
- Sister in law’s brother
- Queer awakening
- Secret hook ups
- Friends with benefits
- No HEA for now
I liked how well done the age gap was in this. Ethan is nineteen and his attitude and behaviour reflected that. His shyness and tentativeness at the beginning of their relationship made sense. Ash is thirty-four and although he had his impulsive and reckless moments, he was still a very calculated person weighing and knowing the risks beforehand. He also carried a lot of responsibility on his shoulders from his job and family.
Ash, Oli, and Henry’s brotherhood was one of my favourite relationships. These brothers were there for each other when they needed it, but also had their typical sibling spats. You couldn’t help but love Henry though, even his friendship with Ethan was special. Whenever he was in a scene it always made me smile. Alex if you’re reading this, please give me a Henry book.
I felt for Ethan. He got so swept up in Ash and you couldn’t blame him for falling for him so fast after all the chasing, flirting, tenderness, and attention he received. At times I wanted to strangle Ash for his unwarranted outbursts towards Ethan. However, once he was able to let down his walls, I loved how smitten he was and how willingly he opened up. After that I realised just how much these two needed each other.
I knew this was going to have a sad for now ending but my heart still broke. Just when things were going good, everything blew up. I am glad that Ash was able to help Ethan be comfortable and know who he is, and that Ash was able to focus on the things that mattered and do things that made him happy, all thanks to Ethan.
I can’t wait for them to reunite in the next book and see how their time apart has affected them. I need their happy ever after, after everything they’ve been through.
- Age gap
- Sister in law’s brother
- Queer awakening
- Secret hook ups
- Friends with benefits
- No HEA for now
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