What do you think?
Rate this book
Trial by Fire #3
Phoenix
I hadn’t seen Ryan Hudson coming.
He stumbled into my life and settled immediately into my soul. As I’ve watched him beginning to explore a new kind of freedom, my heart has swelled and shattered a million times.
The trust he has placed in my hands is monumental. I will not let him down as others have. He thought the protective wall he built was strong enough, but I’m pulling it down. He will bare his soul to me. If he thinks his demons will scare me away, he's wrong. I’m not intimidated by them. We will fight them together.
Life hasn’t been fair to Ryan. But he hasn't let it beat him, because only the brave find hope in a second chance. He doesn’t comprehend the strength that he possesses, but I’m going to show him. Even if I have to burn the world down so that he can rise from the ashes of his painful past to be the beautiful creature I know him to be, that's what I'll do.
What he will come to understand is that he no longer belongs to the past. I am his present and his future. Those that clipped his wings no longer own him. I do.
And it's time for my Phoenix to soar free...
He stumbled into my life and settled immediately into my soul. As I’ve watched him beginning to explore a new kind of freedom, my heart has swelled and shattered a million times.
The trust he has placed in my hands is monumental. I will not let him down as others have. He thought the protective wall he built was strong enough, but I’m pulling it down. He will bare his soul to me. If he thinks his demons will scare me away, he's wrong. I’m not intimidated by them. We will fight them together.
Life hasn’t been fair to Ryan. But he hasn't let it beat him, because only the brave find hope in a second chance. He doesn’t comprehend the strength that he possesses, but I’m going to show him. Even if I have to burn the world down so that he can rise from the ashes of his painful past to be the beautiful creature I know him to be, that's what I'll do.
What he will come to understand is that he no longer belongs to the past. I am his present and his future. Those that clipped his wings no longer own him. I do.
And it's time for my Phoenix to soar free...
- GenresM M RomanceBDSMDark
346 pages, Paperback
First published September 20, 2019
40 people are currently reading
150 people want to read
About the author
Cole Denton
47 books632 followersUSA Today Bestselling Author
Cole Denton is an ocean lover who finds joy in almost all physical activities. He is especially passionate about baseball and surfing, indulging in them every chance he gets.
His other passion is writing. It began at a young age and followed him through to his time at a university in SoCal where he majored in screenwriting.
After moving to Sin City, Cole has put his knowledge and talent as a writer to work by pursuing a career as a dark fiction author. Cole is enjoying testing his kinky side, in pursuit of all things pleasurable.
Cole Denton is an ocean lover who finds joy in almost all physical activities. He is especially passionate about baseball and surfing, indulging in them every chance he gets.
His other passion is writing. It began at a young age and followed him through to his time at a university in SoCal where he majored in screenwriting.
After moving to Sin City, Cole has put his knowledge and talent as a writer to work by pursuing a career as a dark fiction author. Cole is enjoying testing his kinky side, in pursuit of all things pleasurable.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews
August 18, 2022
The last one healed, planted seeds of understanding and loyalty. This one harvested all the acceptance and love.
These men are so incredibly special, I can’t believe after how harrowing and abhorrent the first book was, how much I look forward to each one that came after.
Ryan is so strong, I think many would think he’s a doormat but no. I think he takes a gigantic, unflappable heart to still feel loyalty and love for the ones that tried to destroy him.
Russell is so sweet, his love for Ryan is breathtaking and his patience is never ending. There is literally nothing that he wouldn’t do for Ryan. It’s the purest adoration I’ve ever experienced.
Oooph Leonard! That shade of green doesn’t look good on anyone. You’re a mockery to switches everywhere.
When it all came together, when I finally got my heart’s desire I could breath again. Gah! This book gave me everything I wanted.
Now the next one will test everything they’ve built and I can’t wait to find out how they conquer the brand new demons.
These men are so incredibly special, I can’t believe after how harrowing and abhorrent the first book was, how much I look forward to each one that came after.
Ryan is so strong, I think many would think he’s a doormat but no. I think he takes a gigantic, unflappable heart to still feel loyalty and love for the ones that tried to destroy him.
Russell is so sweet, his love for Ryan is breathtaking and his patience is never ending. There is literally nothing that he wouldn’t do for Ryan. It’s the purest adoration I’ve ever experienced.
Oooph Leonard! That shade of green doesn’t look good on anyone. You’re a mockery to switches everywhere.
When it all came together, when I finally got my heart’s desire I could breath again. Gah! This book gave me everything I wanted.
Now the next one will test everything they’ve built and I can’t wait to find out how they conquer the brand new demons.
September 20, 2019
“Only the brave find hope in a second chance.”
Phoenix by Cole Denton
The final chapter of Ryan and Russell’s story is a very bittersweet one for me. I have grown to love these characters dearly and have become very emotionally invested in them. Every story needs an ending though, and this is theirs. Cole Denton has smashed it out of the park with Phoenix. It has all of the devastating impact that Forged and Steel have while adding even more depth into the relationship dynamics between Ryan and Russell. Ryan’s struggle to feel worthy of everything will break your heart, while Russell’s steely determination to break through that wall of self doubt and shame will fill you with hope. The underlying subject material while hard hitting is a credit to the author who has never shied away from writing about the horrors of abuse.
Cole Denton has firmly sealed his place with me as a one-click author. The style in which he writes is superb and he easily captivates the reader with his believable characters and amazing storytelling. If you haven’t read The Trial by Fire series yet I simply say - be brave and read it.
Phoenix by Cole Denton
The final chapter of Ryan and Russell’s story is a very bittersweet one for me. I have grown to love these characters dearly and have become very emotionally invested in them. Every story needs an ending though, and this is theirs. Cole Denton has smashed it out of the park with Phoenix. It has all of the devastating impact that Forged and Steel have while adding even more depth into the relationship dynamics between Ryan and Russell. Ryan’s struggle to feel worthy of everything will break your heart, while Russell’s steely determination to break through that wall of self doubt and shame will fill you with hope. The underlying subject material while hard hitting is a credit to the author who has never shied away from writing about the horrors of abuse.
Cole Denton has firmly sealed his place with me as a one-click author. The style in which he writes is superb and he easily captivates the reader with his believable characters and amazing storytelling. If you haven’t read The Trial by Fire series yet I simply say - be brave and read it.
August 3, 2022
Cole Denton broke my soul just so he could put it back together again. Slowly & painfully in the most beautiful way.
From what I have seen this was originally supposed to be the end of Ryan Hudson's story. Now there are two more books in this series which I am beyond grateful for because I am not ready to say goodbye. I don't know if I ever will be.
"You've always been mine. All of my life, I've been waiting for your soul to find its way to me."
This series has been one of the most incredible journeys I have been on in my reading. After the pain and suffering Ryan went through in the first book, I didn't know how he would ever get to a place of peace. It wasn't a road he could take alone. He needed someone by his side to guide him along his path. Someone who could be patient and kind to him when the demons he feared came rearing their ugly head telling him he wasn't worth it. Russell was that person. The person Ryan could lean on when life became too tough, and all hope was lost.
"You make me want to wrap you up and hold you. You've challenged my self-restraint for months now, Ryan, and I'm going to show you that you are something to someone-you are everything to me."
Russel didn't just make sure that Ryan received praise and words of love and encouragement. He was able to replace the old memories that Ryan had of his past with new memories of Russel and their time together. Every moment they were intimate or in the playroom I feared that Ryan would be backslide into a place of fear and shame. Russel didn't let him though. Whether it was a hand on his shoulder or the way he would press his hand to Ryan's abdomen it was always gentle praising touches.
I seriously can't get over how much love and hope I invested into this story. There was not a moment where I wasn't rooting for Ryan to show some sign of love to Russel. This hasn't been an easy series, but it has been worth it beyond any words could ever describe. I am without a doubt continuing with Ryan and Russel's journey because a love like theirs isn't something you can find in just any story. It is earned through pain, tears, and an immense feeling of love you just want to cling on to with every turn of the page.
From what I have seen this was originally supposed to be the end of Ryan Hudson's story. Now there are two more books in this series which I am beyond grateful for because I am not ready to say goodbye. I don't know if I ever will be.
"You've always been mine. All of my life, I've been waiting for your soul to find its way to me."
This series has been one of the most incredible journeys I have been on in my reading. After the pain and suffering Ryan went through in the first book, I didn't know how he would ever get to a place of peace. It wasn't a road he could take alone. He needed someone by his side to guide him along his path. Someone who could be patient and kind to him when the demons he feared came rearing their ugly head telling him he wasn't worth it. Russell was that person. The person Ryan could lean on when life became too tough, and all hope was lost.
"You make me want to wrap you up and hold you. You've challenged my self-restraint for months now, Ryan, and I'm going to show you that you are something to someone-you are everything to me."
Russel didn't just make sure that Ryan received praise and words of love and encouragement. He was able to replace the old memories that Ryan had of his past with new memories of Russel and their time together. Every moment they were intimate or in the playroom I feared that Ryan would be backslide into a place of fear and shame. Russel didn't let him though. Whether it was a hand on his shoulder or the way he would press his hand to Ryan's abdomen it was always gentle praising touches.
I seriously can't get over how much love and hope I invested into this story. There was not a moment where I wasn't rooting for Ryan to show some sign of love to Russel. This hasn't been an easy series, but it has been worth it beyond any words could ever describe. I am without a doubt continuing with Ryan and Russel's journey because a love like theirs isn't something you can find in just any story. It is earned through pain, tears, and an immense feeling of love you just want to cling on to with every turn of the page.
September 28, 2019
What a fantastic close to a great series. The connection between Ryan and Russell is so powerful and the love Russell has for Ryan and everything Russell will do to help Ryan heal. I was glad when Russell talked to Leonard and put a stop to him harassing Ryan. Your emotions will up and down but in the end all is well. Enjoy
September 20, 2019
Wow! Loved this book #3 in the series! Cole has taken us on this wild ride where poor Ryan had suffered unimaginable abuse both physically and mentally at the hands of his sick twisted family. Because of this he has never been able to love or trust anyone and never felt worthy. He met Russell who has taken him as a mentor and a friend and has slowly gained Ryan's trust. here in book #3 as trying is learning to love and trust and push his physical limits, he also begins to believe in himself that he is worthy and lovable. Leonard quickly tries his best to convince Ryan that Russell is doing things with others and will never be satisfied with him. This sets Ryan back and reminds him of how his family said he was no good. But , little does he know, Russell is taking the steps needed for Ryan's family to pay for what they had done to him his entire life. Finally Ryan realizes that Leonard was just jealous of him and how much Russell does love him. It's a beautiful ending. Hurry up and get your copy and bring his Kleenex, you'll need them especially for the last chapter!
September 20, 2019
From the ashes he shall rise
Ryan's story was absolutely heartbreaking.
Since meeting Russell his life has completely changed, so has Russell's.
Things in this last book in the series will both have you heartbroken and cheering at the same time.
In the end the Phoenix will rise from the ashes...
Bravo Cole!!!
Can hardly wait to see what's next.
Ryan's story was absolutely heartbreaking.
Since meeting Russell his life has completely changed, so has Russell's.
Things in this last book in the series will both have you heartbroken and cheering at the same time.
In the end the Phoenix will rise from the ashes...
Bravo Cole!!!
Can hardly wait to see what's next.
September 21, 2019
What a fantastic ending to an amazing series! I loved seeing the growing love and trust between Ryan and Russell. It tugged at my heart. I loved it. I laughed, I got angry, and at times felt like I was on a rollercoaster feeling my chest tighten up. This book had it all. This is absolutely one of the best series I have ever read!! Bravo Cole Denton for giving us this story!
September 21, 2019
Strong, Brave, Loving, Ryan Hudson
The incredible story of Ryan Hudson emotional journey comes to an end. I have never before felt so much compassion for a character. I will miss him but I know he is in Russell's capable hands.
The incredible story of Ryan Hudson emotional journey comes to an end. I have never before felt so much compassion for a character. I will miss him but I know he is in Russell's capable hands.
Read
September 21, 2019Wow
I don’t think I have the words to adequately review this book! If you’re here then you’ve already read Forged and Steel and know how amazing this series has been so far. This final book won’t leave you disappointed! Enjoy!
I don’t think I have the words to adequately review this book! If you’re here then you’ve already read Forged and Steel and know how amazing this series has been so far. This final book won’t leave you disappointed! Enjoy!
August 14, 2023
3,5⭐
(mainly because I started this book a week ago when I was very interested in this series and then due to commitments I could no longer continue it and therefore it took me some time to immerse myself in the story again otherwise I'm sure it would have easily been 4 stars)
(mainly because I started this book a week ago when I was very interested in this series and then due to commitments I could no longer continue it and therefore it took me some time to immerse myself in the story again otherwise I'm sure it would have easily been 4 stars)
I’d waited my whole life for his soul; one that despite being tortured, still had the ability and hope to love...and be loved. My fingers itched to touch him. My soul yearned to see and hear him. My heart burned to love him.
August 30, 2020
Bravo 👏
“I waited my whole life for his soul; one that despite being tortured, still had the ability and hope to love… And be loved. “ — Russell
I didn’t read this book; I lived it. From the pages, I was submerged into this raw, amorous, heart-tearing relationship. I was the broken and I was the healer; I was the Sub and I was the Dom; being gripped by the sense of fear, and pride from each character‘s perspective.
The rhythmic flow of Cole’s writing allowed me to feel Ryan’s insecurities coupled with Russells love and compassion. One lovers anxieties being slowly diminished by another’s masked tenderness.
This swan song brought me through the peaks and valleys of Ryan’s journey all over again, and reiterated the colossal impact one persons love can have on another. A magnum opus on an astronomical level.
“I waited my whole life for his soul; one that despite being tortured, still had the ability and hope to love… And be loved. “ — Russell
I didn’t read this book; I lived it. From the pages, I was submerged into this raw, amorous, heart-tearing relationship. I was the broken and I was the healer; I was the Sub and I was the Dom; being gripped by the sense of fear, and pride from each character‘s perspective.
The rhythmic flow of Cole’s writing allowed me to feel Ryan’s insecurities coupled with Russells love and compassion. One lovers anxieties being slowly diminished by another’s masked tenderness.
This swan song brought me through the peaks and valleys of Ryan’s journey all over again, and reiterated the colossal impact one persons love can have on another. A magnum opus on an astronomical level.
September 22, 2019
Russel and Ryan, part 3
This book is so emotional, It is about Ryan getting comfortable with Russel, it is about Russel learning more about Ryan, it is about two people getting their lives together as one.
Ryan’s innocence , my heart aches for the insecurity about himself and the longing for the acknowledgement from his mother. And for Russel the need to teach Ryan that he is to be loved by him. This book is a real page turner. I cried “ for the one who have read this book, you know when”. I also want to kill a certain one. I almost threw my kindle at the wall. This is an amazing end of a debut series. I can not wait to read more from Cole Denton. Go.Read.This.Series.!!!!!
This book is so emotional, It is about Ryan getting comfortable with Russel, it is about Russel learning more about Ryan, it is about two people getting their lives together as one.
Ryan’s innocence , my heart aches for the insecurity about himself and the longing for the acknowledgement from his mother. And for Russel the need to teach Ryan that he is to be loved by him. This book is a real page turner. I cried “ for the one who have read this book, you know when”. I also want to kill a certain one. I almost threw my kindle at the wall. This is an amazing end of a debut series. I can not wait to read more from Cole Denton. Go.Read.This.Series.!!!!!
September 22, 2019
Outstanding. Brilliant
This was such an incredible ending to Ryan and Russell's story. I loved watching Ryan become so much stronger with the patience and love Russell provided. I cried at times when Ryan was struggling with his past and feeling worthless. I also smiled when he felt wanted and needed by Russell. I could feel every emotion the characters felt. You will feel as if you are a part if their story. Cole Denton has blown my mind with this entire series. Brilliantly written. Highly recommend this entire series.
This was such an incredible ending to Ryan and Russell's story. I loved watching Ryan become so much stronger with the patience and love Russell provided. I cried at times when Ryan was struggling with his past and feeling worthless. I also smiled when he felt wanted and needed by Russell. I could feel every emotion the characters felt. You will feel as if you are a part if their story. Cole Denton has blown my mind with this entire series. Brilliantly written. Highly recommend this entire series.
September 23, 2019
Roller Coaster of Emotions
This is that book that sends your heart and soul on roller coaster of Emotions. Cole Denton has the ability to write about anything and everything and this book proves his success has a amazing author. Ryan and Russell took my heart left me breathless and speechless all at once. Yes this book is every bit a 5 star read. Grab your awesome copy today you haven't. Read the trilogy I can't say enough about Cole and his talent for writing.
This is that book that sends your heart and soul on roller coaster of Emotions. Cole Denton has the ability to write about anything and everything and this book proves his success has a amazing author. Ryan and Russell took my heart left me breathless and speechless all at once. Yes this book is every bit a 5 star read. Grab your awesome copy today you haven't. Read the trilogy I can't say enough about Cole and his talent for writing.
September 23, 2019
Loved this book!!
Cole has an amazing talent of writing a story that enhances the fact that love can be gender-less......it doesn't matter!!! If it's love it's love!
I didn't even feel like I was reading M/M......it was just about pure love. As with Forged and Steel, I felt many emotions reading Phoenix, some shattering my heart, others making me smile with joy. I love the ending to this book, bringing the series full circle.
Cole has an amazing talent of writing a story that enhances the fact that love can be gender-less......it doesn't matter!!! If it's love it's love!
I didn't even feel like I was reading M/M......it was just about pure love. As with Forged and Steel, I felt many emotions reading Phoenix, some shattering my heart, others making me smile with joy. I love the ending to this book, bringing the series full circle.
September 21, 2019
Nothing I say would give this book the justice it deserves. It made me laugh, and it made me cry. It was certainly an emotional journey. I loved the connection between Ryan & Russell, and seeing the love and trust between them grow throughout their relationship. This was a beautiful and perfect ending for Ryan & Russell’s story. Thank you Cole
September 20, 2019
This Third book is HOT!!! Russel and Ryan are what soulmates are made of *sigh* Cole Denton nailed their connection, especially enjoyed Ryan opening up to affection, love, and the sexy spark of D/s. I am hopeful that we will see more of this series in the future because it’s that fantastic!
September 21, 2019
As with his last book in this Trial by Fire books I just LOVE his storyline of Russ and Ryan I going to miss them.... sizzling Hot Excellent JOB
September 21, 2019
This was a very emotional story. I loved the slow buildup of progress and trust and how the story wrapped up.
April 21, 2020
READ PRIOR BOOKS FIRST.
I hope the next book we get to learn more about Russell's past and family. Right now the relationship is a little lopsided. Obviously. But if I was Ryan, I would want to know more about the person I was IN LOVE with.
I hope the next book we get to learn more about Russell's past and family. Right now the relationship is a little lopsided. Obviously. But if I was Ryan, I would want to know more about the person I was IN LOVE with.
September 22, 2019
“I’d waited my whole life for his soul; one that despite being tortured, still had the ability and hope to love... and be loved.”
Sheer brilliance! Phoenix exudes love, the everlasting kind that feels like home. What a superior ending to Ryan’s journey, from a scarred young man to a brave man who took control of his destiny. It was awe inspiring watching Russell’s dominant personality, he had a psychological understanding and recognition, was respectful, communicated and nurturing. His connection with Ryan ran so deep, he had an uncanny ability to not only talk Ryan through the roadblocks he had been building since he was a child but he demolished them. Whilst it was an awakening watching Ryan let go of his insecurities, placing all of his trust in Russell. His hesitance to believe he was worthy, lack of confidence and the pain he was reliving destroyed me. Such a raw, vulnerable, heartbreakingly beautiful and powerful story of resurrection. Which leads me to believe that there is hope for anyone who is shown patience and love.
Sheer brilliance! Phoenix exudes love, the everlasting kind that feels like home. What a superior ending to Ryan’s journey, from a scarred young man to a brave man who took control of his destiny. It was awe inspiring watching Russell’s dominant personality, he had a psychological understanding and recognition, was respectful, communicated and nurturing. His connection with Ryan ran so deep, he had an uncanny ability to not only talk Ryan through the roadblocks he had been building since he was a child but he demolished them. Whilst it was an awakening watching Ryan let go of his insecurities, placing all of his trust in Russell. His hesitance to believe he was worthy, lack of confidence and the pain he was reliving destroyed me. Such a raw, vulnerable, heartbreakingly beautiful and powerful story of resurrection. Which leads me to believe that there is hope for anyone who is shown patience and love.
September 23, 2019
"All of my life, I've been waiting for your soul to find it's way to me"
This book deserves so many more stars!! Cole Denton has proven himself a magnificent writer able of conjuring up so many emotions. You will cry, you will swoon, you will want to throw you kindle across the room and you most definitely root for Ryan and Russell.
In this last book in the Trial By Fire series, we see so much growth in Ryan as Russell continues his never ending patience of loving and teaching Ryan how not to be afraid to let love in, to be comfortable in his own skin and start to let his personality show through.
This series will hook you and make you feel things right along with Russell and Ryan. When a writer can paint a picture as vivid as this, you know you have something special in your hands. Did I mention the sex scenes were H.A.F?!?!
Happy Reading
This book deserves so many more stars!! Cole Denton has proven himself a magnificent writer able of conjuring up so many emotions. You will cry, you will swoon, you will want to throw you kindle across the room and you most definitely root for Ryan and Russell.
In this last book in the Trial By Fire series, we see so much growth in Ryan as Russell continues his never ending patience of loving and teaching Ryan how not to be afraid to let love in, to be comfortable in his own skin and start to let his personality show through.
This series will hook you and make you feel things right along with Russell and Ryan. When a writer can paint a picture as vivid as this, you know you have something special in your hands. Did I mention the sex scenes were H.A.F?!?!
Happy Reading
April 30, 2024
My Brave Young Man 💙
⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Ryan and Russell’s journey continues as the Master nurtures his boy.
Ryan held the power and with his submission came security and freedom although there were times he didn’t always realise the power he held. He’d waited his entire life for acceptance, contentment and love and with Russell that’s exactly what he’s getting although his past demons still play a huge part in his belief system.
I loved how Russell could still instantly calm Ryan. The need Russell has to care for his boy was so natural and heartwarming.
“Remember you belong here. You are mine and just mine.”
“Yours” he said.
“Mine” I confirmed.
Only mine my boy.
⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Ryan and Russell’s journey continues as the Master nurtures his boy.
Ryan held the power and with his submission came security and freedom although there were times he didn’t always realise the power he held. He’d waited his entire life for acceptance, contentment and love and with Russell that’s exactly what he’s getting although his past demons still play a huge part in his belief system.
I loved how Russell could still instantly calm Ryan. The need Russell has to care for his boy was so natural and heartwarming.
“Remember you belong here. You are mine and just mine.”
“Yours” he said.
“Mine” I confirmed.
Only mine my boy.
September 21, 2019
Hangover warning!!
This was the perfect ending to this series. The heat, the passion, the love. Cole Denton has a way of capturing his reader from the first word to the last. To make a reader feel like they are watching a movie instead of reading a book takes extreme talent and Cole definitely proves his talent In the entire series. Cole set the bar very high for his next books and I for one cannot wait to see what he does next very talented author.
This was the perfect ending to this series. The heat, the passion, the love. Cole Denton has a way of capturing his reader from the first word to the last. To make a reader feel like they are watching a movie instead of reading a book takes extreme talent and Cole definitely proves his talent In the entire series. Cole set the bar very high for his next books and I for one cannot wait to see what he does next very talented author.
September 22, 2019
Holy Hotness
Ryan and Russell.....Russell and Ryan!!! Talk about a scorcher. These two burn up the pages of Author Cole Denton’s latest book Phoenix!
Ryan believes himself to be damaged, unable to love or be loved. Russell has “chosen” him.....for life. My heart breaks for Ryan, but I rejoiced when Russell came into his life.
Leonard.....he needs to go!! And you readers....run an grab your copy!! You will not be disappointed, I promise!!
Ryan and Russell.....Russell and Ryan!!! Talk about a scorcher. These two burn up the pages of Author Cole Denton’s latest book Phoenix!
Ryan believes himself to be damaged, unable to love or be loved. Russell has “chosen” him.....for life. My heart breaks for Ryan, but I rejoiced when Russell came into his life.
Leonard.....he needs to go!! And you readers....run an grab your copy!! You will not be disappointed, I promise!!
September 25, 2019
Amazing
This book was absolutely amazing. Cole Denton put his heart in soul into it. My emotions we're in high gear through Ryan's tragic life. What a strong and beautiful boy, Who with Russell's love became an amazing man. I cried for Ryan's pain. My anger towards his family was beyond anything I've ever felt. Cole Denton you are amazing. Thank you for this exceptional book. Can't wait to read more of your books.
This book was absolutely amazing. Cole Denton put his heart in soul into it. My emotions we're in high gear through Ryan's tragic life. What a strong and beautiful boy, Who with Russell's love became an amazing man. I cried for Ryan's pain. My anger towards his family was beyond anything I've ever felt. Cole Denton you are amazing. Thank you for this exceptional book. Can't wait to read more of your books.
December 15, 2020
Emotional
A great ending to this series. I was invested in reading it until the end. I was happy with the way was written and how the series ended
A great ending to this series. I was invested in reading it until the end. I was happy with the way was written and how the series ended
June 4, 2020
Phoenix delivered and satisfied my expectations. Cole Denton knows just how to build tension before giving you a much needed release.
May 9, 2021
Book three continues the beautiful but disturbing story of Ryan and Russell. Their relationship becomes a full-on sexual one as well as a loving one but Ryan still has trouble coming to terms with the fact that Russell loves him. Whenever they have a session, Russell always goes over their safe words--hairdryer to stop; yellow to slow down. But Ryan keeps remembering the implements that his father used to punish him when he was a child and Russell has to keep bringing him back and reminding him to focus. Ryan’s father’s hands harmed him whereas Russell’s hands discipline out of love. This book lets us see how Ryan learns the difference between the beatings his father gave him and the beatings that Russell gives him. He still feels dirty after his orgasms and finds it difficult to accept how Russell gives him aftercare. Ryan knows nothing of love and is still finding it difficult to accept the human touch from Russell.
Fortunately, he has his two texting friends, Kim and April, who try to explain away his doubts, and sometimes there is much humour in how the girls support him and make suggestions to him. And unfortunately, there is Leonard, showing up at all the parties, putting doubts into Ryan’s head about Russell’s feelings, telling him that he could give him tips on how to service Russell. And Ryan, always stumbling over his thoughts and words, with Russell so positive in the answers he gives to him.
Cole has a smooth, flowing style to his writing with his word choice and sentence structure blending to establish mood and image making the reader want more. It was almost as if someone reached in and gripped my heart almost tearing it from my body and tossing it aside whenever Ryan was doubting himself then reeling it back in when Russell would assure him that he loved him. I don’t like anxiety and yet I loved this book. I love the characters; Ryan, youthful and courageous; Russell, composed and confident.
This is a beautifully told love story. This author has a voice that implores us to look at another side of life that most of us know as “kinky”, a world that many of us are unfamiliar with and may look down upon. I was so reluctant to read this series and kept putting it off, and after reading it, was sorry that I had not grabbed that gauntlet earlier. I would have learned so much more quickly. But it is not only the unusual world that Ryan and Russell live in, it is the understanding of Ryan and his abusive childhood and why it is that he has such a difficult time accepting Russell’s love as reality and believing that someone could love him.
Fortunately, he has his two texting friends, Kim and April, who try to explain away his doubts, and sometimes there is much humour in how the girls support him and make suggestions to him. And unfortunately, there is Leonard, showing up at all the parties, putting doubts into Ryan’s head about Russell’s feelings, telling him that he could give him tips on how to service Russell. And Ryan, always stumbling over his thoughts and words, with Russell so positive in the answers he gives to him.
Cole has a smooth, flowing style to his writing with his word choice and sentence structure blending to establish mood and image making the reader want more. It was almost as if someone reached in and gripped my heart almost tearing it from my body and tossing it aside whenever Ryan was doubting himself then reeling it back in when Russell would assure him that he loved him. I don’t like anxiety and yet I loved this book. I love the characters; Ryan, youthful and courageous; Russell, composed and confident.
This is a beautifully told love story. This author has a voice that implores us to look at another side of life that most of us know as “kinky”, a world that many of us are unfamiliar with and may look down upon. I was so reluctant to read this series and kept putting it off, and after reading it, was sorry that I had not grabbed that gauntlet earlier. I would have learned so much more quickly. But it is not only the unusual world that Ryan and Russell live in, it is the understanding of Ryan and his abusive childhood and why it is that he has such a difficult time accepting Russell’s love as reality and believing that someone could love him.
February 25, 2020
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Phoenix is the EPIC phenomenal, brilliant and highly emotional conclusion to Ryan Hudson's journey.
Russell has so much care and patience as he helps his great love Ryan continue to heal and explore his desires.
Watching Ryan's walls break down and seeing his soul soaring was extremely emotional. There were times where this story was TOO MUCH and I had to walk away and just take a moment. Seeing Ryan's insecurities hurt. He was just so broken down from his childhood. MY GOD FUCKING RUSSELL. He's such an amazing man. 😭😭😭 The chemistry and bond these two men have!
Ryan would live safely in peace, even if I had to burn the world down around him. - Russell
There's a shithead that's lurking in the background. For the sake of spoilers I won't name names but seriously FUCK THAT PERSON AND FUCK HIS FAMILY.
Life hasn’t been fair to you. But only the brave find hope in a second chance. And I’m going to ensure that I make up for those who have taken advantage of your gift of trust. - Russell
This story is dark. Dark af but there's so much hope and light when we reach the end.
This series will stay with me for a very very long time.
Phoenix is the EPIC phenomenal, brilliant and highly emotional conclusion to Ryan Hudson's journey.
Russell has so much care and patience as he helps his great love Ryan continue to heal and explore his desires.
Watching Ryan's walls break down and seeing his soul soaring was extremely emotional. There were times where this story was TOO MUCH and I had to walk away and just take a moment. Seeing Ryan's insecurities hurt. He was just so broken down from his childhood. MY GOD FUCKING RUSSELL. He's such an amazing man. 😭😭😭 The chemistry and bond these two men have!
Ryan would live safely in peace, even if I had to burn the world down around him. - Russell
There's a shithead that's lurking in the background. For the sake of spoilers I won't name names but seriously FUCK THAT PERSON AND FUCK HIS FAMILY.
Life hasn’t been fair to you. But only the brave find hope in a second chance. And I’m going to ensure that I make up for those who have taken advantage of your gift of trust. - Russell
This story is dark. Dark af but there's so much hope and light when we reach the end.
This series will stay with me for a very very long time.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews