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Ignite #1
Ignite
The United States has split into three countries, and in the Conservative United States, being gay will get you sent to a reintegration camp. Tan has survived three years in camp, but he’s at the limit of what he can endure, even with the help of his best friend, Austin.
When a massive meteor shower creates complete chaos at the camp, Austin and Tan see a chance to escape and they take it. On a whim, they decide to bring Mack with them, a newbie at camp who seems to know more about survival than anyone.
But when the meteor shower turns out to be much more and they discover aliens have landed on Earth with war on their agenda, their escape becomes a hell of a lot more dangerous. All of a sudden, they’re not only hiding from their own government, but from alien forces as well. Their only chance is to reach the border to find freedom. But without power and food, and with every man for himself, how will they survive?
While the world around them burns, all they have are each other.
When a massive meteor shower creates complete chaos at the camp, Austin and Tan see a chance to escape and they take it. On a whim, they decide to bring Mack with them, a newbie at camp who seems to know more about survival than anyone.
But when the meteor shower turns out to be much more and they discover aliens have landed on Earth with war on their agenda, their escape becomes a hell of a lot more dangerous. All of a sudden, they’re not only hiding from their own government, but from alien forces as well. Their only chance is to reach the border to find freedom. But without power and food, and with every man for himself, how will they survive?
While the world around them burns, all they have are each other.
232 pages, Paperback
First published October 29, 2018
164 people are currently reading
891 people want to read
About the author
Nora Phoenix
127 books2,184 followersWould you like the long or the short version of my bio?
The short? You got it.
I write steamy gay romance books and I love it. I also love reading books. Books are everything.
How was that?
A little more detail? Gotcha.
I started writing my first stories when I was a teen…on a freaking typewriter. I still have these, and they’re adorably romantic. And bad, haha. Fear of failing kept me from following my dream to become a romance author, so you can imagine how proud and ecstatic I am that I finally overcame my fears and self doubt and did it. I adore my genre because I love writing and reading about flawed, strong men who are just a tad broken..but find their happy ever after anyway.
My favorite books to read are pretty much all MM/gay romances as long as it has a happy end. Kink is a plus… Aside from that, I also read a lot of nonfiction and not just books on writing. Popular psychology is a favorite topic of mine and so are self help and sociology.
Hobbies? Ain’t nobody got time for that. Just kidding. I love traveling, spending time near the ocean, and hiking. But I love books more.
Come hang out with me in my Facebook Group Nora’s Nook where I share previews, sneak peeks, freebies, fun stuff, and much more: https://www.facebook.com/groups/noras...
Wanna get first dibs on freebies, updates, sales, and more? Sign up for my newsletter (no spamming your inbox full…promise!) here: http://www.noraphoenix.com/newsletter/
You can also stalk me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/NoraFromBHR
On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nora.phoenix/
On Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/nora-...
The short? You got it.
I write steamy gay romance books and I love it. I also love reading books. Books are everything.
How was that?
A little more detail? Gotcha.
I started writing my first stories when I was a teen…on a freaking typewriter. I still have these, and they’re adorably romantic. And bad, haha. Fear of failing kept me from following my dream to become a romance author, so you can imagine how proud and ecstatic I am that I finally overcame my fears and self doubt and did it. I adore my genre because I love writing and reading about flawed, strong men who are just a tad broken..but find their happy ever after anyway.
My favorite books to read are pretty much all MM/gay romances as long as it has a happy end. Kink is a plus… Aside from that, I also read a lot of nonfiction and not just books on writing. Popular psychology is a favorite topic of mine and so are self help and sociology.
Hobbies? Ain’t nobody got time for that. Just kidding. I love traveling, spending time near the ocean, and hiking. But I love books more.
Come hang out with me in my Facebook Group Nora’s Nook where I share previews, sneak peeks, freebies, fun stuff, and much more: https://www.facebook.com/groups/noras...
Wanna get first dibs on freebies, updates, sales, and more? Sign up for my newsletter (no spamming your inbox full…promise!) here: http://www.noraphoenix.com/newsletter/
You can also stalk me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/NoraFromBHR
On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nora.phoenix/
On Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/nora-...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 149 reviews
March 18, 2020
Re-read: 19.03.20
Now that all the books in the series is out, I decided it was time to finish it. But to keep myself up to date, I decided to re-read this one first. Was it as good as I remembered it? No. It's still entertaining and interesting, but I think I truly just wasn't interesting in M/M/M, even though first book in the series doesn't have any romance. I thought that since I really liked it the first time, the fact that I wasn't in the mood for M/M/M wouldn't matter, but I guess it did? Then there's the fact that I'm still struggling with focusing on reading these days. 2020 sucks. That being said, it was still good enough, but yeah, not as good as I remembered. Tan kinda annoyed me a bit, and the ‘honey’, ‘sweetheart’, ‘love’, ‘babe’, got kinda annoying as well. But I still liked it. Maybe it needed more depth, or more action this time around for me?
New rate: 3 stars.
First read review:
The book centers around Austin Regan, his best friend Tan (21?), and Cormack ‘Mack’ (22), who's new to the reintegration camp for gays. Tan's been in the camp for three years, Austin for six months and Mack for a week, and the three of them seizes the chance to escape when a massive meteor shower hits the camp. However, the three of them hadn't expected that Aliens had invaded. Not only do they now have to hide for the government, but aliens as well. Overall, I can so huge potential in this series. I felt like nothing was wrong, like I won't change anything, so that's a big compliment (from me). If the author keeps following this line of writing, I'd definitely would read more from her. She made quite an interesting world, with interesting characters.
I liked the characters, though I would've liked to know the ages of them (we only got to know for certain Mack's age). They were each different characters with different personalities and intelligences. Austin's (bi) the leader, the one who takes charge and has the final say; though he listen extremely well at what the other two says. He's the jock; played football for many years. Tan's (gay) the more... feminine guy, who easily get scared and is quite vulnerable. The other two feels quite protective over him. His expertise is in history and well, sex. He's been through a lot. Mack's (gay) the nerd. The surviver who really knows how to survive an apocalypse because he's trained for it his who life. He is also quite innocent as he's been sheltered his whole life. Together, they make a perfect family, each complimenting the other. Though, I did do the favorite character thing I always do; Austin, Mack, then at least, Tan. So to summary, yeah, I liked the book and I can't wait for next one. I hope we don't have to wait long...
Names & Terms:
→ EUS: Eastern United States (Capital: New York)
→ CUS: Conservative United States (Capital: Houston)
→ WUS: Western Unites States (Capital: LA)
→ CSA: Conservative Space Agency (formerly NASA)
→ Reintegration Camp: a camp where gay, bi, and trans men between 18 and 28 are locked up until they are reformed, meaning straight, and released back into society. Gay men above 28 go to prison.
→ Counselor: guard at a reintegration camp
→ Camper: a “prisoner” in a reintegration camp
→ Foets: new arrivals at camp, new campers (short for foetus aka fetus)
Other Characters:
→ David Regan, Austin father. He was the Deputy Chief of Staff to the President of the CUS and got fired from his job and jailed when Austin was arrested for being gay. The government had proof he knew about Austin’s sexual orientation and didn’t report him. He was sentenced to two years in prison.
→ Pax, an Zagorian alien who wants peace. Pax is his human name as humans can't pronounce his alien name.
Quick basic facts:
Genre: - (New Adult?) Science Fiction - Dystopia (M/M/M).
Series: - Series, Book One.
Love triangle? -
Cheating? -
HEA? -
Favorite character? - Austin Regan.
Would I read more by this author/or of series? - Yes.
Would I recommend this book/series? - So far, yes.
Will I read this again in the future? - Who knows.
Rating - 3.5 stars.
Now that all the books in the series is out, I decided it was time to finish it. But to keep myself up to date, I decided to re-read this one first. Was it as good as I remembered it? No. It's still entertaining and interesting, but I think I truly just wasn't interesting in M/M/M, even though first book in the series doesn't have any romance. I thought that since I really liked it the first time, the fact that I wasn't in the mood for M/M/M wouldn't matter, but I guess it did? Then there's the fact that I'm still struggling with focusing on reading these days. 2020 sucks. That being said, it was still good enough, but yeah, not as good as I remembered. Tan kinda annoyed me a bit, and the ‘honey’, ‘sweetheart’, ‘love’, ‘babe’, got kinda annoying as well. But I still liked it. Maybe it needed more depth, or more action this time around for me?
New rate: 3 stars.
⋰⋱⋰⋱⋰⋱*Interesting; I Liked It*⋰⋱⋰⋱⋰⋱
First read review:
The book centers around Austin Regan, his best friend Tan (21?), and Cormack ‘Mack’ (22), who's new to the reintegration camp for gays. Tan's been in the camp for three years, Austin for six months and Mack for a week, and the three of them seizes the chance to escape when a massive meteor shower hits the camp. However, the three of them hadn't expected that Aliens had invaded. Not only do they now have to hide for the government, but aliens as well. Overall, I can so huge potential in this series. I felt like nothing was wrong, like I won't change anything, so that's a big compliment (from me). If the author keeps following this line of writing, I'd definitely would read more from her. She made quite an interesting world, with interesting characters.
Tan had trouble keeping up. From Austin’s build, it was evident he’d played sports regularly. Football, if Mack had to take a guess. He had the build of a quarterback or receiver, tall and muscled but still fast and not overly heavy. Mack was a runner, loving the solitude of an endurance run. Trail runs were his favorite, hours of running in the woods or the mountains. A hike like this was no issue for him at all.
Tan, however, was a different story. As the day progressed, Mack could see him grow more and more tired, his legs stumbling. Austin noticed it too, calling for extra breaks that neither of them needed, purely for Tan’s benefit. Still, Austin’s feet were bothering him as well, Mack noticed. The construction of the flip-flops and the canvas covers seemed to be holding, but Mack knew that couldn’t be comfortable.
I liked the characters, though I would've liked to know the ages of them (we only got to know for certain Mack's age). They were each different characters with different personalities and intelligences. Austin's (bi) the leader, the one who takes charge and has the final say; though he listen extremely well at what the other two says. He's the jock; played football for many years. Tan's (gay) the more... feminine guy, who easily get scared and is quite vulnerable. The other two feels quite protective over him. His expertise is in history and well, sex. He's been through a lot. Mack's (gay) the nerd. The surviver who really knows how to survive an apocalypse because he's trained for it his who life. He is also quite innocent as he's been sheltered his whole life. Together, they make a perfect family, each complimenting the other. Though, I did do the favorite character thing I always do; Austin, Mack, then at least, Tan. So to summary, yeah, I liked the book and I can't wait for next one. I hope we don't have to wait long...
“Never again,” he swore, meeting Tan’s eyes with a holy fire burning in his own. “You have my word.”
Then he took Mack’s hand with his other hand and Mack and Tan laced their fingers together as well. “We’ll make it if we stay together,” Austin said. “The world may be burning, but we have each other, and together, we’re strong. We can make it if we’re smart and rely on each other.”
Names & Terms:
→ EUS: Eastern United States (Capital: New York)
→ CUS: Conservative United States (Capital: Houston)
→ WUS: Western Unites States (Capital: LA)
→ CSA: Conservative Space Agency (formerly NASA)
→ Reintegration Camp: a camp where gay, bi, and trans men between 18 and 28 are locked up until they are reformed, meaning straight, and released back into society. Gay men above 28 go to prison.
→ Counselor: guard at a reintegration camp
→ Camper: a “prisoner” in a reintegration camp
→ Foets: new arrivals at camp, new campers (short for foetus aka fetus)
They settled down on the bed in a tangled mess of limbs and heads, the sticky mess in his underwear not bothering him in the least. Tan kissed him again, then Austin, and they lay for a long time until their heart rates had come down. He’d never felt like this, so connected to someone else, and yet so devoid of any shame. It was the happiest Mack had ever been in his life.
Other Characters:
→ David Regan, Austin father. He was the Deputy Chief of Staff to the President of the CUS and got fired from his job and jailed when Austin was arrested for being gay. The government had proof he knew about Austin’s sexual orientation and didn’t report him. He was sentenced to two years in prison.
→ Pax, an Zagorian alien who wants peace. Pax is his human name as humans can't pronounce his alien name.
“I’m so scared,” he finally whispered, his voice choked by the iron band around his throat.
“I know,” Austin said, squeezing his hand.
“So am I,” Mack whispered, and did the same.
Quick basic facts:
Genre: - (New Adult?) Science Fiction - Dystopia (M/M/M).
Series: - Series, Book One.
Love triangle? -
Cheating? -
HEA? -
Favorite character? - Austin Regan.
Would I read more by this author/or of series? - Yes.
Would I recommend this book/series? - So far, yes.
Will I read this again in the future? - Who knows.
Rating - 3.5 stars.
March 11, 2020
Okay that was seriously fun! I'm very glad I've got the second one already loaded and ready to go.
I'm doing the audio version, performed by Kenneth Obi. He's doing a great job with these guys - the dialogue is fast moving, and there's a lot of banter. Mr. Obi has a distinct voice for each character and their personalities really come through.
If you're going to do this series, do it in audio. I hope I won't be waiting long for the third one to be published.
an audiobook copy of Ignite was provided to me for the purpose of my honest review
I'm doing the audio version, performed by Kenneth Obi. He's doing a great job with these guys - the dialogue is fast moving, and there's a lot of banter. Mr. Obi has a distinct voice for each character and their personalities really come through.
If you're going to do this series, do it in audio. I hope I won't be waiting long for the third one to be published.
an audiobook copy of Ignite was provided to me for the purpose of my honest review
January 22, 2020
Action, suspense and feelz - so many feelz. These boys are brave and strong. They refuse to be broken, instead making their own reality and truth.
In the midst of an alien invasion, with the world at war for its survival, these 3 young men look for a way to be free in a stifling, conservative, unaccepting political climate.
This is book 1 in a trilogy and I'm going immediately to book 2 because I adored this one. So my jam!
Many, many thanks to Pam for picking this book for me to read.
In the midst of an alien invasion, with the world at war for its survival, these 3 young men look for a way to be free in a stifling, conservative, unaccepting political climate.
This is book 1 in a trilogy and I'm going immediately to book 2 because I adored this one. So my jam!
Many, many thanks to Pam for picking this book for me to read.
December 16, 2018
So. Nora Phoenix. We need to talk.
...
When is the next book out?!
Loved it! Highly recommended! Lots of action, a whole new interesting world and I don't even usually read MMM. From the start, the characters have to make tough choices in this gritty, dystopian world.
...
When is the next book out?!
Loved it! Highly recommended! Lots of action, a whole new interesting world and I don't even usually read MMM. From the start, the characters have to make tough choices in this gritty, dystopian world.
May 18, 2019
4.0 Stars
I was pleasantly surprised by this one. It's got a lot going on; very busy plot-wise (with the US split, escaping a gay conversion camp, the invasion & survivalist aspects). But it's the first of a series and I'm dying to know how it all turns out.
Reminds me a little bit of 18% Gray with it's divided nation trope (and persecuted queers), but also introduces a whole other plot-point with the addition of aliens - which I'm thinking I didn't read the summary because I was all smug thinking "those meteors are an alien incursion" (believing I'd figured it out on my own) when that was actually mentioned in the precis. D'oh! *facepalm*
Still, I'm hella intrigued (the sympathetic alien - is he really or just a mole/plant?) and want to see how the relationship between these guys develops. Also, I'm hoping the struggle unites the country again - if not the world. Hurts to think that only a Big Bad is what would pull us together....
(Oh, and now that "stock up at Walmart" seems to be a generic answer to the apocalypse, I'mma hafta figure out a secondary plan; my first is a different store and I'm not saying which one because I'd hate to have to fight you guys for shit when the world's coming to an end.)
I was pleasantly surprised by this one. It's got a lot going on; very busy plot-wise (with the US split, escaping a gay conversion camp, the invasion & survivalist aspects). But it's the first of a series and I'm dying to know how it all turns out.
Reminds me a little bit of 18% Gray with it's divided nation trope (and persecuted queers), but also introduces a whole other plot-point with the addition of aliens - which I'm thinking I didn't read the summary because I was all smug thinking "those meteors are an alien incursion" (believing I'd figured it out on my own) when that was actually mentioned in the precis. D'oh! *facepalm*
Still, I'm hella intrigued (the sympathetic alien - is he really or just a mole/plant?) and want to see how the relationship between these guys develops. Also, I'm hoping the struggle unites the country again - if not the world. Hurts to think that only a Big Bad is what would pull us together....
(Oh, and now that "stock up at Walmart" seems to be a generic answer to the apocalypse, I'mma hafta figure out a secondary plan; my first is a different store and I'm not saying which one because I'd hate to have to fight you guys for shit when the world's coming to an end.)
February 5, 2019
Great Start to a Dystopian Series!it’s tho be a
3.5 Stars!
I thoroughly enjoyed this MMM survival adventure—the start of what promises to be a fun series!
There was very little in the way of sex—none at all, really. But there was much in the way of relationship building for three very different men.
The narration by Kenneth Obi was fantastic!
3.5 Stars!
I thoroughly enjoyed this MMM survival adventure—the start of what promises to be a fun series!
There was very little in the way of sex—none at all, really. But there was much in the way of relationship building for three very different men.
The narration by Kenneth Obi was fantastic!
February 21, 2024
I had to check a few times to be sure this was Nora Phoenix...MY NORA PHOENIX...the same Nora Phoenix that wrote the 45 other books that I own with her name on them? It was...I compared the pictures on the book to the one on all my others... so I continued...that is until the alien spider robot "thingys" showed up. I love animals of all kinds, but I am a firm believer that even God can make mistakes, so he must surely have been having a really awful, bad, off the wall kind of day when he said, "I'm going to have some fun today...I'll create something with at least a million eyes, some with hairy gigantic bodies, and give them eight legs so they can run faster that most of those human "things"! Other than that part...which I am yet recovering from...this was a pretty good story. An alien race is trying to take over the Earth but are not sure they want Washington D.C.... and three very special young men are trying to just survive the whole fiasco. I give the German Shepherd bonus points...you'll understand why when/if you read it... but I'm not telling. Just saying "good doggie"! Back to the boys. Each was special in his own way. They were all broken, battered and bruised, but trying to survive. Their time at the "camp" was like no camp I ever went to and for that I am extremely grateful. Mack was the new guy so he missed most of the torture, but Tan and Austin have scars they will carry for life.... both inside and out. Home life for them wasn't much better. It’s an interesting journey to take with the boys, especially if you really like science fiction...are not offended by guys that love one another...own a giant spider "splatterer"... (that's a technical term) ... and/or a BIG, BIG, BIG can of extra strength Raid...and lots and lots of doggie biscuits for the cute German shepherd. I can't remember when I had so much fun with a story.
March 25, 2022
3.5 stars
Very entertaining and an interesting take on a dystopian United States!
I will say that the invasion of the aliens and how people are doing everything to survive, feels reminiscent of the first wave of COVID where it was every man for themselves for food, toilet paper and sanitizers haha (can laugh about it now)
I am interested to see how this series will go!
Very entertaining and an interesting take on a dystopian United States!
I will say that the invasion of the aliens and how people are doing everything to survive, feels reminiscent of the first wave of COVID where it was every man for themselves for food, toilet paper and sanitizers haha (can laugh about it now)
I am interested to see how this series will go!
August 1, 2020
I first tried the audio for this and I really liked this, up until the narrator did Mack’s voice. Mack was this sweet, innocent guy and Kenneth Obi gave him a very deep, but also slow voice. It sounded so unnatural that I decided to stop with the audio and just read the books.
And I’m glad I did. I think the audio would have ruined this for me. But now that I read it I really enjoyed this.
Nora Phoenix often makes sure there’s not a lot of relationship angst and I really love that about her books. And the transition here with 3 guys who are trying to survive in an dystopian world where being gay is something that gets you locked up, from friendship to something more was really smooth. I loved that.
Austin was worried about starting something with his best friend Tan, because Tan had some very bad experiences with sex. But when it’s no longer just the two of them, but Mack as well, it seemed that Mack was what brought them all together.
Mack was so innocent, so sweet, that Austin and Tan were more than willing to show him how things worked between guys.
And I also thought there was a perfect balance between the romance and the action/fighting for their lives stuff.
Oh, and did I mention this book has robot spiders created by aliens?
On to book two!
And I’m glad I did. I think the audio would have ruined this for me. But now that I read it I really enjoyed this.
Nora Phoenix often makes sure there’s not a lot of relationship angst and I really love that about her books. And the transition here with 3 guys who are trying to survive in an dystopian world where being gay is something that gets you locked up, from friendship to something more was really smooth. I loved that.
Austin was worried about starting something with his best friend Tan, because Tan had some very bad experiences with sex. But when it’s no longer just the two of them, but Mack as well, it seemed that Mack was what brought them all together.
Mack was so innocent, so sweet, that Austin and Tan were more than willing to show him how things worked between guys.
And I also thought there was a perfect balance between the romance and the action/fighting for their lives stuff.
Oh, and did I mention this book has robot spiders created by aliens?
On to book two!
June 9, 2020
A trilogy: Dystopia with breathtaking description and the challenges our guys faced. This futuristic adventure is in a disassembled USA.
Big Austin and smaller Tan had been locked up in a prison for deviants, LGBTQ, who were being tortured, beaten and raped. Suddenly the earth is attacked,
and Tan and Austin prepare to escape, which is a struggle to the death, plus they find Mack, new guy in the prison who was untouched.
Mack is an encyclopedia of wilderness survival, very valuable to Austin and Tan. The trio make a pact and escape.
Lots of action, treachery, bad guys, and then the discovery of aliens.
This is a fascinating Sci-Fi tale that is relatable, realistic, gripping and we want more.
Our three men are attracted and become friends.
Long talks, Austin and Tan teach Mack about life away from his strict family, who had turned him in to the prison. The lessons for Mack (22) are on the basics, birds and bees, and more, because Mack was never told, and he's never been kissed.
The men are each smart, brave, and daring as they slowly move forward and realize what the "big picture" is.
A wonderful slow burn for the trio. We readers, feel like we are part of all of the events.
Highly recommended.
ENJOY !
=====
Big Austin and smaller Tan had been locked up in a prison for deviants, LGBTQ, who were being tortured, beaten and raped. Suddenly the earth is attacked,
and Tan and Austin prepare to escape, which is a struggle to the death, plus they find Mack, new guy in the prison who was untouched.
Mack is an encyclopedia of wilderness survival, very valuable to Austin and Tan. The trio make a pact and escape.
Lots of action, treachery, bad guys, and then the discovery of aliens.
This is a fascinating Sci-Fi tale that is relatable, realistic, gripping and we want more.
Our three men are attracted and become friends.
Long talks, Austin and Tan teach Mack about life away from his strict family, who had turned him in to the prison. The lessons for Mack (22) are on the basics, birds and bees, and more, because Mack was never told, and he's never been kissed.
The men are each smart, brave, and daring as they slowly move forward and realize what the "big picture" is.
A wonderful slow burn for the trio. We readers, feel like we are part of all of the events.
Highly recommended.
ENJOY !
=====
January 31, 2020
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.25 stars
I am a big fan of dystopian stories, so I was excited to check out this series from Nora Phoenix. I’ll admit, it wasn’t really on my radar until I read Phoenix’s guest post here talking about the second book in the series, Smolder, but that totally grabbed my attention and I am so glad I picked this one up. It is a really engaging story with a lot of excitement and the beginnings of a lovely romance.
One thing Phoenix does really well here is manage the pace of information over the course of the story. We learn along with Mack, Tan, and Austin just what is happening in the world and what dangers lie ahead. It gives a nice sense of discovery as the truth about what is going on is revealed. There is also great pacing in learning more about each of the three men.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
4.25 stars
I am a big fan of dystopian stories, so I was excited to check out this series from Nora Phoenix. I’ll admit, it wasn’t really on my radar until I read Phoenix’s guest post here talking about the second book in the series, Smolder, but that totally grabbed my attention and I am so glad I picked this one up. It is a really engaging story with a lot of excitement and the beginnings of a lovely romance.
One thing Phoenix does really well here is manage the pace of information over the course of the story. We learn along with Mack, Tan, and Austin just what is happening in the world and what dangers lie ahead. It gives a nice sense of discovery as the truth about what is going on is revealed. There is also great pacing in learning more about each of the three men.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
March 11, 2020
4 stars for the series
I would call this a dystopian, light sci-fi, m/m/m romance that oftentimes felt like a contemporary, close proximity, slow-burn romance, if that makes any sense. Some installments were heavier on action, while others were more character driven. There is a dystopian feel, and there are definitely aliens, but if that's what is holding you back from reading, I would tell you to give it a try.
All three men have had different background experiences and have to work through their own issues all the while trying to survive, but it turns out that as the earth is literally crumbling beneath them, they are finally finding the freedom and family they have long been denied.
While the pacing occasionally felt off, I read the entire trilogy back to back and it definitely kept me entertained and wondering what would happen next.
****
I guess I really didn't read the blurb so I wasn't expecting aliens - even though it's right in the blurb! Anyway on to book 2 - I'll review the series as a whole after book 3. :)
I would call this a dystopian, light sci-fi, m/m/m romance that oftentimes felt like a contemporary, close proximity, slow-burn romance, if that makes any sense. Some installments were heavier on action, while others were more character driven. There is a dystopian feel, and there are definitely aliens, but if that's what is holding you back from reading, I would tell you to give it a try.
All three men have had different background experiences and have to work through their own issues all the while trying to survive, but it turns out that as the earth is literally crumbling beneath them, they are finally finding the freedom and family they have long been denied.
While the pacing occasionally felt off, I read the entire trilogy back to back and it definitely kept me entertained and wondering what would happen next.
****
I guess I really didn't read the blurb so I wasn't expecting aliens - even though it's right in the blurb! Anyway on to book 2 - I'll review the series as a whole after book 3. :)
November 20, 2018
I liked this story. Both the original apocalyptic part and the slowly blooming romance part as well. (Not steamy at all.)
There were some things, that I found a little... odd or just plain awkward, but overall it's an enjoyable read.
3.5 stars rounded up.
There were some things, that I found a little... odd or just plain awkward, but overall it's an enjoyable read.
3.5 stars rounded up.
November 15, 2018
So far this is a well paced, well written, apocalyptic tale with a m/m/m component that is just barely getting started between the three men fighting for survival.
I can see a lot of ethical questions that should/will come from this type of scenario and so far they seem to be straddling them pretty well but as time goes on it will be interesting to see where these guys are pushed to go and how that will bind them together...or not.
There are a few plot niggles but mostly I'm going with the intent of the idea of the book and trying to let them go.
Not sure when the next one is coming and I'd like to know how many books are planned before deciding if I want to really invest in the next one.
This ends with a non ending and no real sexual relationship between the men, just a survival instinct with a bit of pack mentality thrown in. Hopefully the chemistry and relationship building will get more attention in the next book because while Mack is definitely horny, I don't feel a lot of chemistry between these guys yet.
I can see a lot of ethical questions that should/will come from this type of scenario and so far they seem to be straddling them pretty well but as time goes on it will be interesting to see where these guys are pushed to go and how that will bind them together...or not.
There are a few plot niggles but mostly I'm going with the intent of the idea of the book and trying to let them go.
Not sure when the next one is coming and I'd like to know how many books are planned before deciding if I want to really invest in the next one.
This ends with a non ending and no real sexual relationship between the men, just a survival instinct with a bit of pack mentality thrown in. Hopefully the chemistry and relationship building will get more attention in the next book because while Mack is definitely horny, I don't feel a lot of chemistry between these guys yet.
dnf
February 28, 2022No rating DNF. I think somebody could write this book and it turn out ok, I’m not sure it is this author. Is fetishizing homophobia a thing? This is some pretty intense subject matter and I just didn’t feel comfortable with turning it into fantasy romance novel. Too close to home.
March 2, 2020
On to book 2!!
February 17, 2020
I think the author did a great job building this dystopian world. It’s scary and interesting and I can’t wait to find out more and see how the story continues. The three main characters are wonderful and they work really really well together. I enjoyed every single word.
I listened the audiobook and the narration was also fantastic, I liked all the voices for the three main characters but Mack’s was my favorite.
I listened the audiobook and the narration was also fantastic, I liked all the voices for the three main characters but Mack’s was my favorite.
January 1, 2020
4.25 stars from me. This story takes place in a dystopian version of the very near future I would imagine, and features war and aliens...so if that's not your thing, you may wish to call a halt right now. The US has split into 3 countries as the blurb says, and the middle part including Texas and the Bible Belt is now called the Conservative United States [CUS] 😲.
The three MC's, Austin, Tan and Mack all meet when they're interned in a reintegration camp for gay men in the CUS...and we all know what that means 😡. The camp guards were nasty, sadistic swines and treated Tan like the camp whore; unsurprisingly everyone there was just looking out for no.1 until Austin showed Tan some kindness and started to try and protect him. When meteor showers start hitting the camp, lots of the camp guards and 'prisoners' are killed and Mack, a new internee, helps Austin and Tan to escape. When they discover that the meteor showers are actually aliens from the planet Zagor landing on Earth, things go to hell in a handbasket and their first priority is to look after each other and survive.
I have to admit that the description of the aliens strongly reminded me, and could actually be a carbon copy of, the Martians in Jeff Wayne's brilliant War of the Worlds musical [which was based of course on the HG Wells novel of the same name]. I've become heavily invested in the wellbeing of the 3 MC's [especially Mack, who has had nothing but the lies told by his parents to believe in] and will definitely be seeing this series through to it's conclusion. Yes, there were a few typos and word errors but nowhere near as bad as some of Nora's other stories I've read recently.
The three MC's, Austin, Tan and Mack all meet when they're interned in a reintegration camp for gay men in the CUS...and we all know what that means 😡. The camp guards were nasty, sadistic swines and treated Tan like the camp whore; unsurprisingly everyone there was just looking out for no.1 until Austin showed Tan some kindness and started to try and protect him. When meteor showers start hitting the camp, lots of the camp guards and 'prisoners' are killed and Mack, a new internee, helps Austin and Tan to escape. When they discover that the meteor showers are actually aliens from the planet Zagor landing on Earth, things go to hell in a handbasket and their first priority is to look after each other and survive.
I have to admit that the description of the aliens strongly reminded me, and could actually be a carbon copy of, the Martians in Jeff Wayne's brilliant War of the Worlds musical [which was based of course on the HG Wells novel of the same name]. I've become heavily invested in the wellbeing of the 3 MC's [especially Mack, who has had nothing but the lies told by his parents to believe in] and will definitely be seeing this series through to it's conclusion. Yes, there were a few typos and word errors but nowhere near as bad as some of Nora's other stories I've read recently.
October 31, 2018
*ARC provided by the author in exchange for my honest opinion*
I'll be honest with you: when I started Ignite, I wasn't sure if I would like it, because Dystopian novels aren't really my kind of novels, but I had to jump on the chance to review it, because Nora Phoenix wrote it and I love her stuff.
I'm glad I did, because I think if I hadn't had an ARC of this, I would have never picked it up, because... dystopian, but it was really good! I loved the world building and even though this isn't really supposed to be scary I had this feeling of "what if something is behind me, watching me" while laying on my bed and reading it.
The MMM romance aspect of Ignite is really minute and from time to time I actually forgot that it was supposed to be there and I don't mean that as something bad. I honestly think this book would work great without any romance as well, just as a dystopian adventurous type of novel.
Just a heads-up, this book ends on a cliffhanger with a "to be continued" at the end. I could totally hear Nora laughing at the dismay of her readers. I want to have book two, now! You can't just leave it at that, I need to know what will happen. Nora, you got me invested into an dystopian novel and now you just leave me hanging here? How dare you! LOL. Just know I will stalk you for updates.
Rating: 4 stars
I'll be honest with you: when I started Ignite, I wasn't sure if I would like it, because Dystopian novels aren't really my kind of novels, but I had to jump on the chance to review it, because Nora Phoenix wrote it and I love her stuff.
I'm glad I did, because I think if I hadn't had an ARC of this, I would have never picked it up, because... dystopian, but it was really good! I loved the world building and even though this isn't really supposed to be scary I had this feeling of "what if something is behind me, watching me" while laying on my bed and reading it.
The MMM romance aspect of Ignite is really minute and from time to time I actually forgot that it was supposed to be there and I don't mean that as something bad. I honestly think this book would work great without any romance as well, just as a dystopian adventurous type of novel.
Just a heads-up, this book ends on a cliffhanger with a "to be continued" at the end. I could totally hear Nora laughing at the dismay of her readers. I want to have book two, now! You can't just leave it at that, I need to know what will happen. Nora, you got me invested into an dystopian novel and now you just leave me hanging here? How dare you! LOL. Just know I will stalk you for updates.
Rating: 4 stars
March 1, 2022
Not a fan of this kind of books but worth the read
November 21, 2023
Ehhh...
I know this is a start to a trilogy. But at $5 a ebook.. I was not drawn into these characters enough to continue.
3 stars
1 on the spice scale
I know this is a start to a trilogy. But at $5 a ebook.. I was not drawn into these characters enough to continue.
3 stars
1 on the spice scale
November 3, 2018
Rating: 4 stars
This book started a bit rough for me but got better as it went along. I liked that romance took a back burner to story. It had been awhile since I had read a Sci-fi, dystopian novel and it made for a really good change of pace for me. I loved all three of the main characters. They each came from such three diverse backgrounds yet meshed well together. Overall an excellent beginning to a new series. Can’t wait to read the next one.
This book started a bit rough for me but got better as it went along. I liked that romance took a back burner to story. It had been awhile since I had read a Sci-fi, dystopian novel and it made for a really good change of pace for me. I loved all three of the main characters. They each came from such three diverse backgrounds yet meshed well together. Overall an excellent beginning to a new series. Can’t wait to read the next one.
August 5, 2021
Review coming on my third reread of the first book, and it is amazing still. This is one of my favorite sci fi series, and one of my favorites by Nora too! I'm not usually one for sci fi, but Nora managed to make this interesting and easy to understand while keeping it out of cliche territory. Love!
Read
February 23, 2020DNF @43%
I like dystopian novels but this one was too far fetched. I called it quits the when the three MCs got jumped in the woods by civilians trying to steal their gear to protect against the alien invasion, but the MCs got out of their predicament by offering the guys a blow job.
I like dystopian novels but this one was too far fetched. I called it quits the when the three MCs got jumped in the woods by civilians trying to steal their gear to protect against the alien invasion, but the MCs got out of their predicament by offering the guys a blow job.
November 13, 2018
This is not a genre I usually read, but I liked it. Mack, Austin and Tan feel really young, even though they experienced a lot, all three of them. They compliment each other and it’s nice the story not only zoomes in on the sexual aspect of the story.
Sometimes i laughed, sometimes I wanted to cry and sometimes it made me think: yeah, are we stupid to think we’re superior and there’s no other life than on earth? I know, I know, there is, there has to be. But I don’t think about it every day or every week for that matter. So ... when would they come? ;)
Sometimes i laughed, sometimes I wanted to cry and sometimes it made me think: yeah, are we stupid to think we’re superior and there’s no other life than on earth? I know, I know, there is, there has to be. But I don’t think about it every day or every week for that matter. So ... when would they come? ;)
November 16, 2018
Great start! The world Nora Phoenix created for this novel is original as well as the story. This book ends in a cliffhanger but you are warned that’s going to be so. I’m looking forward to continue reading the story of these 3 young men that scape from a gay conversion camp, only to find out that the world is under alien attack.
Recommend!
Recommend!
March 20, 2019
Great premise for a series! Three young men using their survival skills during an alien invasion.
November 30, 2018
First and foremost, be aware of the triggers. There are several.
Ok so, I'm reading along, getting into this book, and I almost had to scream. Not trying to give anything away here, but alien spider robot thingys???? Oh. My. Gah. Obviously, me and spiders do NOT get along so that freaked me out lol. Other than that part, this was pretty good. Alien race trying to take over the Earth and three special young men trying to survive. Bonus points for the German Shepherd ;) .
Well, you know my freak out part lol. But I really liked these boys. Each was special in their own way. Broken, but trying to hold on. Battered and bruised, but trying to survive. Their time at 'camp’ was no picnic. Mack being the newbie, fortunately missed most of the torture, but Tan and Austin have scars from it. Inside and out. Mack has his own scars though. These boys have had to endure a hell of a lot, from home lives to the camp. And even though they don't feel like it, their experiences have helped them and made them stronger in some ways.
Tan was used to be on his own. Being different from a young age, he knew he needed to escape from home before being turned in. So he had to survive a lot on his own. Enduring the hell he did for three years in that camp, he felt he was going to break, but he still held on. He's a sweet boy with a huge heart and a love for animals. And full of hugs and cuddles.
Mack was homeschooled and insulated from everything that didn't involve survivalist stuff. When he was caught with gay paraphernalia, he endured his own torture at home from his father. Then turned into the camp. But he's smart. And knowledgeable. He's innocent and naive, but pure of heart.
Austin didn't have it as hard at home. He and his father were buddies, but a jackass had to betray him and away he went. He's sweet in his own way. A survivor. Big guy with a big heart. He's smart and gentle.
These three are trying to do all they can to survive and figure out what the hell is up. And I adore all three. They have their own strengths and weaknesses but their hearts are just Golden. Of course, they are scared witless. I mean big ugly spider things killing tons of people and alien races following behind. Yeah, I'd be freaking too. And did lol.
But it's an interesting journey to read. Especially if you have a bit of sci-fi lover in you. It's a page Turner. Give it a whirl!
http://lovebytesreviews.com
Ok so, I'm reading along, getting into this book, and I almost had to scream. Not trying to give anything away here, but alien spider robot thingys???? Oh. My. Gah. Obviously, me and spiders do NOT get along so that freaked me out lol. Other than that part, this was pretty good. Alien race trying to take over the Earth and three special young men trying to survive. Bonus points for the German Shepherd ;) .
Well, you know my freak out part lol. But I really liked these boys. Each was special in their own way. Broken, but trying to hold on. Battered and bruised, but trying to survive. Their time at 'camp’ was no picnic. Mack being the newbie, fortunately missed most of the torture, but Tan and Austin have scars from it. Inside and out. Mack has his own scars though. These boys have had to endure a hell of a lot, from home lives to the camp. And even though they don't feel like it, their experiences have helped them and made them stronger in some ways.
Tan was used to be on his own. Being different from a young age, he knew he needed to escape from home before being turned in. So he had to survive a lot on his own. Enduring the hell he did for three years in that camp, he felt he was going to break, but he still held on. He's a sweet boy with a huge heart and a love for animals. And full of hugs and cuddles.
Mack was homeschooled and insulated from everything that didn't involve survivalist stuff. When he was caught with gay paraphernalia, he endured his own torture at home from his father. Then turned into the camp. But he's smart. And knowledgeable. He's innocent and naive, but pure of heart.
Austin didn't have it as hard at home. He and his father were buddies, but a jackass had to betray him and away he went. He's sweet in his own way. A survivor. Big guy with a big heart. He's smart and gentle.
These three are trying to do all they can to survive and figure out what the hell is up. And I adore all three. They have their own strengths and weaknesses but their hearts are just Golden. Of course, they are scared witless. I mean big ugly spider things killing tons of people and alien races following behind. Yeah, I'd be freaking too. And did lol.
But it's an interesting journey to read. Especially if you have a bit of sci-fi lover in you. It's a page Turner. Give it a whirl!
http://lovebytesreviews.com
September 17, 2025
I accidentally finished this in a couple hours. It was simple and engaging. I had some issues on and off remembering that these young men are in their early 20s. One of them grew up in a completely sheltered compound, and literally never interacted with anyone other than family, so his overall demeanor is young and sweet. Its easy to see him as a young teen. However, the other two have had more than enough life experiences to not fall into that category. I kept getting that YA vibe, even though the content isn't really YA. Well, maybe late teens. It brought me out of the story a few times, but it was still enjoyable. I do wish that it was just one long book instead of ending on a cliffhanger. Luckily, I have the whole trilogy, and don't have to wait for the next one to see what happens next.
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