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Fire Between Us #1
When We Ignite
Alternate cover edition of ISBN 9786280178523
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, trapped between a controlling father and the crushing weight of expectations. His younger brother, Oliver, is about to marry Charlotte Bennett, further complicating his standing.
Ethan Bennett is just beginning to taste freedom, still drifting as he figures out who he really is. He’s spent years keeping his emotions at arm’s length, 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, but because he awakens a desire Ethan isn’t ready to admit.
Between secrets, stolen moments, and a battle for control, how long can they play with fire before it consumes them completely?
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, trapped between a controlling father and the crushing weight of expectations. His younger brother, Oliver, is about to marry Charlotte Bennett, further complicating his standing.
Ethan Bennett is just beginning to taste freedom, still drifting as he figures out who he really is. He’s spent years keeping his emotions at arm’s length, 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, but because he awakens a desire Ethan isn’t ready to admit.
Between secrets, stolen moments, and a battle for control, how long can they play with fire before it consumes them completely?
450 pages, Paperback
First published April 30, 2025
432 people are currently reading
3389 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 333 reviews
April 28, 2026
”my heart belongs to you, please don’t forget that.”
“i could never forget apart of myself.”
oh my god 😭 no i’m not even joking when i say this - i knew i was giving this book 5 stars in chapter 1!!!!!! yes i read this in less than a day, i literally could not put it down. guess you know it’s time for me to totally not chill about this. it has completely consumed me.
i don’t think i’ve ever read a dynamic where i INSTANTLY felt that pull, the tension and undeniable chemistry! na i was obsessed with these two before the first chapter even ended. they are magic and i could feel in within every single page and every single encounter. everything about them was so tangible and i need to suffocate in them.
one simple text ‘miss me?’ - & i was SCREAMING. i don’t know how alex did this, some kind of sorcery. the flirting between these two? impeccable. the tension building and building, stacked on top of a forbidden age gap AND a secret relationship/‘friends only’ situation? girl dinner. i was giggling and kicking my feet throughout this whole entire book, i think my face hurt from smiling and giggling so much, well until everything wasn’t so fun anymore 🙃
these two are my definition of perfect and it’s not even an opinion actually, it’s a fact.
i just adored how ash and ethan fit together like it was the most natural thing to ever happen to anyone. they complimented each other in the best ways. ash learned to slowly let go of his control, allow himself to feel for himself and let his walls down. the way he was both dominant and tender with ethan was just so perfect i can’t even explain it. watching ash fall hard without him even knowing it himself had my chest so tight.
i loved seeing him empower ethan to use his own strength and control to make decisions for himself & to stop making himself small for others. they are actually are made for each other, and as their relationship developed i fell deep and deeper in love with them. every time ash called ethan ‘my darling’, i was done 😫
but also seeing how ethan helped ash slowly unravel the small and tender parts of himself. THEY ARE MY EVERYTHING.
i knew this was going to end on a cliffhanger (which is why i held off reading this for so long) so amid everything i knew i was barreling towards being hurt. oh and boy am i hurt. please i need book 2 in the morning, sobbing 😭
honestly this is some of the hottest spice i have ever read. i am literally gagged over these two. GAGGED. someone lock me in a cage because i am climbing the walls.
it wasn’t just their tangible chemistry and tension that made this pay off so well, it was the way alex wrote this to be so meaningful for both of their characters arcs. it just worked. it made sense. but my god, it was hot as fuckkkkkkkk. need that.
i am obsessed with the sibling relationships in this book! the way they all stood by each other & played perfectly into the story. i need henry’s book stat cause my sweet precious guy, oh i’m scared. welp.
i am actually going to throw up at the ending and that epilogue? wow, i am actually not okay. yikes, gunna cry myself to sleep whilst my stomach hurts. book 2 is going to make me SICKKKKK with the angst and no one talk to me!!! ’just for a little while.’, so like, i wana die.
when he locked their fingers instead, help 😫😫😫 i’m unwell. no i keep thinking about book 2 and i feel sick LOL.
i don’t even know if i’m making sense cus it’s late & i am spiralling very badly.
this book should some how be allowed to be injected into my blood stream. the chemistry, the drama, the painnn. ugh. chefs kiss. loved it so so much.
my booksta review
He chuckled, his smile brightening his face. Brightening the fucking room.
For one moment, I closed my eyes and let myself feel it—the weight of him holding me, the way his voice softened when he called me darling. I let myself imagine, just for a second, what it would feel like if he were actually mine.
Something passed between us—something electric and far more intimate than what we’d just done. The way our eyes locked on each other, it was like the moment was suspended in space. Stretching in time.
I didn’t know what was happening to me. All I knew was that I never wanted him to stop looking at me like that—like I was his entire world.
“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.”
“To that moment when your soul finally settles into its home. There is no better feeling in the world than finding the other half of yourself.”
_______
i have been wanting to read this for sooo long, then found out it was a duet that ended on a cliffhanger so patiently waited closer to book 2 release & here we are…. reading with my twin grace 🥰 also its age gap 😛
“i could never forget apart of myself.”
oh my god 😭 no i’m not even joking when i say this - i knew i was giving this book 5 stars in chapter 1!!!!!! yes i read this in less than a day, i literally could not put it down. guess you know it’s time for me to totally not chill about this. it has completely consumed me.
i don’t think i’ve ever read a dynamic where i INSTANTLY felt that pull, the tension and undeniable chemistry! na i was obsessed with these two before the first chapter even ended. they are magic and i could feel in within every single page and every single encounter. everything about them was so tangible and i need to suffocate in them.
one simple text ‘miss me?’ - & i was SCREAMING. i don’t know how alex did this, some kind of sorcery. the flirting between these two? impeccable. the tension building and building, stacked on top of a forbidden age gap AND a secret relationship/‘friends only’ situation? girl dinner. i was giggling and kicking my feet throughout this whole entire book, i think my face hurt from smiling and giggling so much, well until everything wasn’t so fun anymore 🙃
these two are my definition of perfect and it’s not even an opinion actually, it’s a fact.
i just adored how ash and ethan fit together like it was the most natural thing to ever happen to anyone. they complimented each other in the best ways. ash learned to slowly let go of his control, allow himself to feel for himself and let his walls down. the way he was both dominant and tender with ethan was just so perfect i can’t even explain it. watching ash fall hard without him even knowing it himself had my chest so tight.
i loved seeing him empower ethan to use his own strength and control to make decisions for himself & to stop making himself small for others. they are actually are made for each other, and as their relationship developed i fell deep and deeper in love with them. every time ash called ethan ‘my darling’, i was done 😫
but also seeing how ethan helped ash slowly unravel the small and tender parts of himself. THEY ARE MY EVERYTHING.
i knew this was going to end on a cliffhanger (which is why i held off reading this for so long) so amid everything i knew i was barreling towards being hurt. oh and boy am i hurt. please i need book 2 in the morning, sobbing 😭
honestly this is some of the hottest spice i have ever read. i am literally gagged over these two. GAGGED. someone lock me in a cage because i am climbing the walls.
it wasn’t just their tangible chemistry and tension that made this pay off so well, it was the way alex wrote this to be so meaningful for both of their characters arcs. it just worked. it made sense. but my god, it was hot as fuckkkkkkkk. need that.
i am obsessed with the sibling relationships in this book! the way they all stood by each other & played perfectly into the story. i need henry’s book stat cause my sweet precious guy, oh i’m scared. welp.
i am actually going to throw up at the ending and that epilogue? wow, i am actually not okay. yikes, gunna cry myself to sleep whilst my stomach hurts. book 2 is going to make me SICKKKKK with the angst and no one talk to me!!! ’just for a little while.’, so like, i wana die.
when he locked their fingers instead, help 😫😫😫 i’m unwell. no i keep thinking about book 2 and i feel sick LOL.
i don’t even know if i’m making sense cus it’s late & i am spiralling very badly.
this book should some how be allowed to be injected into my blood stream. the chemistry, the drama, the painnn. ugh. chefs kiss. loved it so so much.
my booksta review
He chuckled, his smile brightening his face. Brightening the fucking room.
For one moment, I closed my eyes and let myself feel it—the weight of him holding me, the way his voice softened when he called me darling. I let myself imagine, just for a second, what it would feel like if he were actually mine.
Something passed between us—something electric and far more intimate than what we’d just done. The way our eyes locked on each other, it was like the moment was suspended in space. Stretching in time.
I didn’t know what was happening to me. All I knew was that I never wanted him to stop looking at me like that—like I was his entire world.
“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.”
“To that moment when your soul finally settles into its home. There is no better feeling in the world than finding the other half of yourself.”
_______
i have been wanting to read this for sooo long, then found out it was a duet that ended on a cliffhanger so patiently waited closer to book 2 release & here we are…. reading with my twin grace 🥰 also its age gap 😛
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 😊
April 27, 2026
5🌟
I’m too lazy to write a super long review but trust me when I say I LOVED this SO much. I had high hopes and all of my expectations were met 🧡
The CHEMISTRYYYYYY between these two from the very beginning of chapter 1 was actually insane. Like are you kidding?????? It was PALPABLE. I was giggling and kicking my FEEEEEET the entire book!!!!
Ash & Ethan are actually so special to me 🥹 I loved everything about them and they way they fell for each other.
“‘To finding peace, ’I said, my voice steady as my gaze locked onto Ethan’s. ‘To that moment when your soul finally settles into its home. There is no better feeling in the world than finding the other half of yourself.’”
Bye.
AND THAT ENDING???? PLS I’M NOT OK 😭😭😭😭 Thank god there’s only one more week until book 2 releases. S/o to my past self for being smart enough to not read this too early LOL
I knew this was going to be 5 stars literally from chapter one—I’m not kidding. And there actually wasn’t a moment it dropped below that for me.
I’m now 3 for 3 with five🌟reads by Alex Cross. And yall know I don’t just give out 5 stars like candy, so that’s saying something! Her pen is LETHAL and she’s absolutely become an auto-buy author for me. If you haven’t read the Us duet yet, please go pick that up as well, along with this. They are so worth the read!!!
If you’d like to check out my little booksta edit
for it on instagram. Feel freeeeee🫶🏻🫶🏻🥹
_______________________________________________
Omg. The chemistry between these two????? Palpable. Review to come!!!
It’s 4 am and I need sleep LOL
_______________________________________________
pre-read🥰🧡✴️🏵️
BUDDY READING WITH MY TWIN, LAURA 👯♀️ (@laurajane) (idk how to tag people on this damn website)
We’ve been so exicted to read this one and have been holding out to be closer to the book 2 release!! Now that I’ve also read Echoes of Us & Becoming Us by this author and LOVED them, I have high hopes that this will be good/fun. Weeeeeeee
I’m too lazy to write a super long review but trust me when I say I LOVED this SO much. I had high hopes and all of my expectations were met 🧡
The CHEMISTRYYYYYY between these two from the very beginning of chapter 1 was actually insane. Like are you kidding?????? It was PALPABLE. I was giggling and kicking my FEEEEEET the entire book!!!!
Ash & Ethan are actually so special to me 🥹 I loved everything about them and they way they fell for each other.
“‘To finding peace, ’I said, my voice steady as my gaze locked onto Ethan’s. ‘To that moment when your soul finally settles into its home. There is no better feeling in the world than finding the other half of yourself.’”
Bye.
AND THAT ENDING???? PLS I’M NOT OK 😭😭😭😭 Thank god there’s only one more week until book 2 releases. S/o to my past self for being smart enough to not read this too early LOL
I knew this was going to be 5 stars literally from chapter one—I’m not kidding. And there actually wasn’t a moment it dropped below that for me.
I’m now 3 for 3 with five🌟reads by Alex Cross. And yall know I don’t just give out 5 stars like candy, so that’s saying something! Her pen is LETHAL and she’s absolutely become an auto-buy author for me. If you haven’t read the Us duet yet, please go pick that up as well, along with this. They are so worth the read!!!
If you’d like to check out my little booksta edit
for it on instagram. Feel freeeeee🫶🏻🫶🏻🥹
_______________________________________________
Omg. The chemistry between these two????? Palpable. Review to come!!!
It’s 4 am and I need sleep LOL
_______________________________________________
pre-read🥰🧡✴️🏵️
BUDDY READING WITH MY TWIN, LAURA 👯♀️ (@laurajane) (idk how to tag people on this damn website)
We’ve been so exicted to read this one and have been holding out to be closer to the book 2 release!! Now that I’ve also read Echoes of Us & Becoming Us by this author and LOVED them, I have high hopes that this will be good/fun. Weeeeeeee
March 28, 2026
This was…intoxicating. Completely all consuming. I loved every page. I LOVED EVERY WORD! Wow. Just wow. This was perfect to me. Alex Cross is a genius. What an immense talent. I am SO excited for book 2. Counting down the days!
April 5, 2026
Second read (05/04/2026) - 3.5 stars ⭐️
Since my last attempt at reading this was a DNF, I decided to give it a fresh start. The book actually began really well, and I didn’t want to put it down because I wanted to see the love between Ash and Ethen bloom. I really liked few side characters, especially the Langley brothers and Charlotte. Henry is so cool.
But when it comes to the main relationship, I didn’t feel much emotion toward them. I wanted their connection to feel intense and real, but I just couldn’t connect with it, even though I tried several times to come to terms with it. Also, the sex scenes felt repetitive and underwhelming. And Ash just isn’t my kind of mc. It often felt like Ethen was trying too hard to impress him.
The connection I felt between Atty and Noah in Echoes of Us just wasn’t there for this couple at all. I think we need more character development from Ethen’s side, hopefully in the next installment.
——
First read (16/01/2026)- DNF @ 64%
Noah and Atty kinda ruined the reading experience for me 😭 I’ll probably pick it up later, but right now I’m just not feeling it.
Since my last attempt at reading this was a DNF, I decided to give it a fresh start. The book actually began really well, and I didn’t want to put it down because I wanted to see the love between Ash and Ethen bloom. I really liked few side characters, especially the Langley brothers and Charlotte. Henry is so cool.
But when it comes to the main relationship, I didn’t feel much emotion toward them. I wanted their connection to feel intense and real, but I just couldn’t connect with it, even though I tried several times to come to terms with it. Also, the sex scenes felt repetitive and underwhelming. And Ash just isn’t my kind of mc. It often felt like Ethen was trying too hard to impress him.
The connection I felt between Atty and Noah in Echoes of Us just wasn’t there for this couple at all. I think we need more character development from Ethen’s side, hopefully in the next installment.
——
First read (16/01/2026)- DNF @ 64%
Noah and Atty kinda ruined the reading experience for me 😭 I’ll probably pick it up later, but right now I’m just not feeling it.
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.
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 6, 2026
That wasn’t my usual cup of tea (set among the white super wealthy, business-oriented class with all the angst centered around the age gap of the two MCs) but damn! It was both hot and full of feels—the title does not mislead. Both Ethan and Ash felt fully fleshed out and the chemistry was off the charts. The supporting characters felt nuanced with their own inner lives and struggles, though none of the parents benefited from this treatment—all were more focused on what they wanted from their adult children than what their children actually needed from them, but I won’t complain. Every story needs a villain (along with the press). Looking forward to volume 2…wish it hadn’t ended the way it did but it made sense for the story so I’m not totally resentful…just a little bit so.
.
.
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!
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.
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.
March 22, 2026
Oh my gosh I need book 2 immediately ahhhh…
Ethan and Ash have one of the most unique dynamics I’ve read in MM romance they’re so similar in so many different ways but also different Ethan has this bratty fire to him and acts shy but really he doesn’t want to be and Ash is such a flirt and a bit of a playboy but also so stubborn, but they both bring out the best in each other.
This has a gay/bi awakening, a 15 year age gap, and they are soon to be brother in-laws.
Our MMC Ash is a CEO to his father‘s company that manages properties and Ethan is a 19-year-old tennis player trying to figure out what he wants to do with his life. Ethan’s sister Charlotte is getting married to Oli, which is Ash’s little brother and when they first meet, Ash and Ethan instantly have this chemistry and they hook you in from start to finish there’s a lot of push and pull between them throughout the story but it just made the story that much more addicting. I’m really rooting for them in Book two I just know when they overcome all these hurdles thrown in their path. They’re gonna have the best happily ever after. 5⭐️
Tropes/Micro Tropes
Bratty MMC
Forbidden/Secret romance
Push and Pull
Gay/Bi awakening
Playboy MMC that can’t settle down until he meets “him”
Banter
Tennis player MMC
Age gap
Soon to be Brother in-laws
Ethan and Ash have one of the most unique dynamics I’ve read in MM romance they’re so similar in so many different ways but also different Ethan has this bratty fire to him and acts shy but really he doesn’t want to be and Ash is such a flirt and a bit of a playboy but also so stubborn, but they both bring out the best in each other.
This has a gay/bi awakening, a 15 year age gap, and they are soon to be brother in-laws.
Our MMC Ash is a CEO to his father‘s company that manages properties and Ethan is a 19-year-old tennis player trying to figure out what he wants to do with his life. Ethan’s sister Charlotte is getting married to Oli, which is Ash’s little brother and when they first meet, Ash and Ethan instantly have this chemistry and they hook you in from start to finish there’s a lot of push and pull between them throughout the story but it just made the story that much more addicting. I’m really rooting for them in Book two I just know when they overcome all these hurdles thrown in their path. They’re gonna have the best happily ever after. 5⭐️
Tropes/Micro Tropes
Bratty MMC
Forbidden/Secret romance
Push and Pull
Gay/Bi awakening
Playboy MMC that can’t settle down until he meets “him”
Banter
Tennis player MMC
Age gap
Soon to be Brother in-laws
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.
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.
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.
April 4, 2026
I'd say more like 4.5⭐, maybe 5 (so I'm rounding up). I really liked Cross' writing and enjoyed this story so much. I feel like Alex did a really good portrayal of exploring and questioning sexuality through Ethan. At times, Ash could be infuriating and came off a little manipulative in the beginning but I ended up really enjoying his character too. I am rooting for them and I don't know how I'm going to wait til May for part II! I NEED IT NOW.
Edit 4/4: I've been thinking about it and welp, I think this is actually a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐.
Edit 4/4: I've been thinking about it and welp, I think this is actually a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐.
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.
May 5, 2026
“He looked like a god, and all I wanted was to be his offering.”
This book is beautiful, fun, sweet, and hot. This is my first book from Alex Cross and I can't wait to read more from her. Amazing writing style, characters, and plot development. The story of these two MCs felt so real to me and WOW that cover is so freaking beautiful, I need the physical book now!
I adored Ethan and Ash. I think that the way their relationship developed is perfect, the incredible chemistry, that sweet and hot tension and those quote worthy emotional words and moments.
“You came when I didn’t know I needed you,” he said softly. “And you didn’t like it when I was quiet.”
I love that Ash was aware of the impossibility of their relationship, how he fought to stay away even though a fruitless and weak fight to say the least. I like his softness with his brothers and specially with Ethan. I was expecting him to be all bossy and dominant (in a sense he was) but he learned to navigate new feelings and a new dynamic with a different type of partner, and at the end the intimate moments and the raw connection they share made it impossible for him not to love every second of it. Watching him lower his walls and fall for Ethan little by little was incredible to witness. You can see how he started to be more vulnerable, how he didn’t hide his affection for him and the words this man said, the way he looked and described Ethan, it just made my heart fly.
“Tell me what you like.”
“Watching you,” I said honestly.
“I’m serious, Ash. What gets you off?” he pressed.
“Watching you,” I repeated, and his exasperated look made me smile. “I mean it. I love watching you, and I fucking love hearing you too. You get me off,” I admitted, watching his expression soften.
Oh and Ethan, what an amazing character. I loved seeing his shy side at the start, but his feisty side how he didn’t just let Ash have control over him, God! It made this book so much better. I adore him, his vulnerability and ability to show his feelings, but at the same time he is so headstrong. There were definitely moments where his age showed, but I do find him kind of mature for his age, he got mad and jealous (with I actually loved) but at the end he was able to think and accept Ash’s reasons. I love the fact that he didn’t give Ash any room to resist him, he literally had him on the palm of his hand, and I love seen him realize that. My heart broke at times for him.
“My heart belongs to you too, Ash.” My voice cracked. “God, this fucking sucks.” I swallowed hard, trying to hold myself together. “Please don’t forget that.”
Sebastian cupped my face, his thumbs brushing away my tears. His own eyes looked red, and it killed me. “Never, my pet.” He kissed me again, resting his forehead against mine. “I could never forget a piece of myself.”
I actually loved the heavy push-and-pull aspect, I found it to be perfect for these two. Since 19 to 34 is a big age gap, something that if it wasn’t on a book I don’t think I could stand behind, but the way this author portrays it, not being afraid to show the reality of how age gap relationships actually work, of the complications and the warring with one's feelings for someone that you shouldn't have or want. It was talked about in a way that I have never seen in other books, it wasn’t forgotten or something that they mention one or two times, it was one of the many reasons for their struggles.
I am so greatful that this is a duology, I actually didn’t know that and for a moment I thought that was it, that it was an open ending. I can’t wait for the second one, it almost makes me regret reading this one now because the wait will kill me. Can’t wait to see what happens!
“This isn’t forever,” he murmured, giving a small shake of his head. His expression twisted, pain flashing across his face. “Forget what I said. This isn’t the end, okay?” I nodded weakly against his forehead. “You and I don’t have an end. We transcend that bullshit,” he whispered.
This book is beautiful, fun, sweet, and hot. This is my first book from Alex Cross and I can't wait to read more from her. Amazing writing style, characters, and plot development. The story of these two MCs felt so real to me and WOW that cover is so freaking beautiful, I need the physical book now!
I adored Ethan and Ash. I think that the way their relationship developed is perfect, the incredible chemistry, that sweet and hot tension and those quote worthy emotional words and moments.
“You came when I didn’t know I needed you,” he said softly. “And you didn’t like it when I was quiet.”
I love that Ash was aware of the impossibility of their relationship, how he fought to stay away even though a fruitless and weak fight to say the least. I like his softness with his brothers and specially with Ethan. I was expecting him to be all bossy and dominant (in a sense he was) but he learned to navigate new feelings and a new dynamic with a different type of partner, and at the end the intimate moments and the raw connection they share made it impossible for him not to love every second of it. Watching him lower his walls and fall for Ethan little by little was incredible to witness. You can see how he started to be more vulnerable, how he didn’t hide his affection for him and the words this man said, the way he looked and described Ethan, it just made my heart fly.
“Tell me what you like.”
“Watching you,” I said honestly.
“I’m serious, Ash. What gets you off?” he pressed.
“Watching you,” I repeated, and his exasperated look made me smile. “I mean it. I love watching you, and I fucking love hearing you too. You get me off,” I admitted, watching his expression soften.
Oh and Ethan, what an amazing character. I loved seeing his shy side at the start, but his feisty side how he didn’t just let Ash have control over him, God! It made this book so much better. I adore him, his vulnerability and ability to show his feelings, but at the same time he is so headstrong. There were definitely moments where his age showed, but I do find him kind of mature for his age, he got mad and jealous (with I actually loved) but at the end he was able to think and accept Ash’s reasons. I love the fact that he didn’t give Ash any room to resist him, he literally had him on the palm of his hand, and I love seen him realize that. My heart broke at times for him.
“My heart belongs to you too, Ash.” My voice cracked. “God, this fucking sucks.” I swallowed hard, trying to hold myself together. “Please don’t forget that.”
Sebastian cupped my face, his thumbs brushing away my tears. His own eyes looked red, and it killed me. “Never, my pet.” He kissed me again, resting his forehead against mine. “I could never forget a piece of myself.”
I actually loved the heavy push-and-pull aspect, I found it to be perfect for these two. Since 19 to 34 is a big age gap, something that if it wasn’t on a book I don’t think I could stand behind, but the way this author portrays it, not being afraid to show the reality of how age gap relationships actually work, of the complications and the warring with one's feelings for someone that you shouldn't have or want. It was talked about in a way that I have never seen in other books, it wasn’t forgotten or something that they mention one or two times, it was one of the many reasons for their struggles.
I am so greatful that this is a duology, I actually didn’t know that and for a moment I thought that was it, that it was an open ending. I can’t wait for the second one, it almost makes me regret reading this one now because the wait will kill me. Can’t wait to see what happens!
“This isn’t forever,” he murmured, giving a small shake of his head. His expression twisted, pain flashing across his face. “Forget what I said. This isn’t the end, okay?” I nodded weakly against his forehead. “You and I don’t have an end. We transcend that bullshit,” he whispered.
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 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
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!
August 3, 2025
ідеальний age gap!
April 14, 2026
Update to below review:
I decided to reread this about a year later because the sequel is finally coming out on May 4, and I’m really glad I did.
Alex Cross is an excellent romance writer. She has a relatively small backlist and I’ve read all of it, but this revisit made me appreciate her even more. She really digs in and lives inside her characters. There’s a depth and nuance to the dialogue that feels strikingly real. For example:
“I’m sorry for hurting you.”
“I’m not hurt. I’m pissed off.”
“I’m sorry for hurting you,” I repeated.
This is doing multiple things at once. Ethan *is* hurt, but the repetition is also patronizing as hell. It would have enraged me if I were him, and it’s exactly the kind of thing an arrogant guy like Ash would say to his groomee. (And on a second read… yeah, some of Ash’s pursuit definitely lands a little more groomy than I initially clocked.)
Ash and Ethan’s relationship is genuinely complex; this is not paint-by-numbers romance. Ash’s need for control, in particular, is fascinating. He feels like someone who should always be dating younger men—not because he’s a “daddy,” but because he likes to exert a kind of authority that edges into paternal territory. And Ethan does feel his age (which I respect; too many age gap romances make the younger MC unrealistically mature), but he still holds his ground. I’m really excited to see where he goes in the next book. I’m hoping for even more swagger.
A couple of lingering nitpicks: Ash is still very fixated on Ethan’s physical appearance (and yes, I’m shallow, too, but I also don’t love when attraction is framed this narrowly). And I cannot get on board with the smoking. Not from a moral standpoint, it’s just… gross. Hair, clothes, breath. Ethan describing Ash as tasting like “whiskey and cigarettes” as if that’s appealing? Absolutely not.
Also: please give us Henry’s book. But not centered on alcoholism—she already did an addiction duet. Let the man have different demons.
*************
My first read from this author but not my last.
Things I did not like about this book:
1) the god awful high school project by the girl who is “a really good artist” cover.
2) the ending. Yeah, bugged me too. If you’re not into duets with a mate, still pending, cool your boots on this one until the next one comes out.
3) push/pull — I hate that shit and this book was lousy with it. Drove me bananas
4) I am very shallow —- I don’t like it when MCs are described as plain or dumpy and ugly covers bother me
More than they should (see #1 above), but damn was Ash obsessed with Ethan’s physical appearance. Like way too much. Like it was almost everything.
5) the cigarette smoking. Hand to heart I am not a preachy person, but yuck cigarette smoke stinks on a person. That plus whiskey — the breath had to be booffin’.
Things I really liked:
1) the chemistry was off the charts ! As someone who reads A LOT of mm romance, I can tell you it’s hard to write chemistry, but these two had it
2) she didn’t brush the age gap under the table — it was a big issue and it was a noticeable issue. Ethan was immature in a lot of ways. Totally age appropriate maturity issues, but it felt real.
3) the sex scenes were pretty hot. I struggled a little with the fact that Ethan wanted to dominate, too, but that is mainly my own heteronormative baggage where I like when a bottom is more submissive, especially in a case where the top thrives on being dominant
4) Henry was a great side character!
Anyway, looking forward to the next installment. Hopefully she doesn’t keep us in suspense for long.
I decided to reread this about a year later because the sequel is finally coming out on May 4, and I’m really glad I did.
Alex Cross is an excellent romance writer. She has a relatively small backlist and I’ve read all of it, but this revisit made me appreciate her even more. She really digs in and lives inside her characters. There’s a depth and nuance to the dialogue that feels strikingly real. For example:
“I’m sorry for hurting you.”
“I’m not hurt. I’m pissed off.”
“I’m sorry for hurting you,” I repeated.
This is doing multiple things at once. Ethan *is* hurt, but the repetition is also patronizing as hell. It would have enraged me if I were him, and it’s exactly the kind of thing an arrogant guy like Ash would say to his groomee. (And on a second read… yeah, some of Ash’s pursuit definitely lands a little more groomy than I initially clocked.)
Ash and Ethan’s relationship is genuinely complex; this is not paint-by-numbers romance. Ash’s need for control, in particular, is fascinating. He feels like someone who should always be dating younger men—not because he’s a “daddy,” but because he likes to exert a kind of authority that edges into paternal territory. And Ethan does feel his age (which I respect; too many age gap romances make the younger MC unrealistically mature), but he still holds his ground. I’m really excited to see where he goes in the next book. I’m hoping for even more swagger.
A couple of lingering nitpicks: Ash is still very fixated on Ethan’s physical appearance (and yes, I’m shallow, too, but I also don’t love when attraction is framed this narrowly). And I cannot get on board with the smoking. Not from a moral standpoint, it’s just… gross. Hair, clothes, breath. Ethan describing Ash as tasting like “whiskey and cigarettes” as if that’s appealing? Absolutely not.
Also: please give us Henry’s book. But not centered on alcoholism—she already did an addiction duet. Let the man have different demons.
*************
My first read from this author but not my last.
Things I did not like about this book:
1) the god awful high school project by the girl who is “a really good artist” cover.
2) the ending. Yeah, bugged me too. If you’re not into duets with a mate, still pending, cool your boots on this one until the next one comes out.
3) push/pull — I hate that shit and this book was lousy with it. Drove me bananas
4) I am very shallow —- I don’t like it when MCs are described as plain or dumpy and ugly covers bother me
More than they should (see #1 above), but damn was Ash obsessed with Ethan’s physical appearance. Like way too much. Like it was almost everything.
5) the cigarette smoking. Hand to heart I am not a preachy person, but yuck cigarette smoke stinks on a person. That plus whiskey — the breath had to be booffin’.
Things I really liked:
1) the chemistry was off the charts ! As someone who reads A LOT of mm romance, I can tell you it’s hard to write chemistry, but these two had it
2) she didn’t brush the age gap under the table — it was a big issue and it was a noticeable issue. Ethan was immature in a lot of ways. Totally age appropriate maturity issues, but it felt real.
3) the sex scenes were pretty hot. I struggled a little with the fact that Ethan wanted to dominate, too, but that is mainly my own heteronormative baggage where I like when a bottom is more submissive, especially in a case where the top thrives on being dominant
4) Henry was a great side character!
Anyway, looking forward to the next installment. Hopefully she doesn’t keep us in suspense for long.
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
⭐♾️
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.
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.
April 17, 2026
Re-read April 2026.
Fuck, what a mess! I got goosebumps in the end. I can’t freaking wait for book two!!!
Love the writing. Their kisses? My gawd! 🔥🥵
Fuck, what a mess! I got goosebumps in the end. I can’t freaking wait for book two!!!
Love the writing. Their kisses? My gawd! 🔥🥵
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