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The O'Neils #3
Taking The Heat
If you’ve followed Kathryn Shay’s firefighters, then you’ll love the NEW YORK TIMES bestselling author’s O’Neil books. TAKING THE HEAT will grab your attention because it takes place in the world of firefighting and firefighter romances.
“Shay writes an emotion-packed story that presents a realistic view of the romantic and social problems faced by female firefighters. With angst and some hot sex, this dramatic tale also has a nice touch of humor.” RT Book Reviews
Liam O’Neil, chef at Bailey’s Irish pub, simply wants to make it through the day. His son is depressed, his beloved wife died three years ago and he’s lonely! Enter, Sophie Tyler, a firefighter who lives on the edge and likes it that way. Clearly, she’s not Liam’s type. But when she begins work at the family pub, opposites attract and they’re drawn to each other. Then they fall in love. Still, nothing can erase the biting fear Liam—and his kids—feel about the danger Sophie is in every day. Eventually, an arsonist upsets the delicate balance of their relationship and they realize they can’t be together. Or can they?
Praise for TAKING THE HEAT:
“This is an enjoyable second chance at love romantic suspense thriller. The storyline is action-packed in terms of the arsonist subplot and filled with angst re the relationship between Liam and Sophie. Although TAKING THE HEAT stands alone, with the O'Neil family playing major roles, reading the previous tales enhances the experience. Once again Kathryn Shay pays homage to the brave firefighters.” Harriet Klausner
“TAKING THE HEAT is an emotional roller coaster ride that hits so many real life issues facing career women in today's world. As each O'Neil book comes out, I find myself drawn more and more into their world. I'll be waiting very impatiently for the last two brothers' books.” Joyfully Reviewed
Also available: the O’Neil brothers’ stories in SOMEONE TO BELIEVE IN, CLOSE TO YOU, HIGH STAKES and ALWAYS AND FOREVER, contemporary romances with hot heroes and the strong women who love them. Don’t miss these Irish romance series of novels.
“Shay writes an emotion-packed story that presents a realistic view of the romantic and social problems faced by female firefighters. With angst and some hot sex, this dramatic tale also has a nice touch of humor.” RT Book Reviews
Liam O’Neil, chef at Bailey’s Irish pub, simply wants to make it through the day. His son is depressed, his beloved wife died three years ago and he’s lonely! Enter, Sophie Tyler, a firefighter who lives on the edge and likes it that way. Clearly, she’s not Liam’s type. But when she begins work at the family pub, opposites attract and they’re drawn to each other. Then they fall in love. Still, nothing can erase the biting fear Liam—and his kids—feel about the danger Sophie is in every day. Eventually, an arsonist upsets the delicate balance of their relationship and they realize they can’t be together. Or can they?
Praise for TAKING THE HEAT:
“This is an enjoyable second chance at love romantic suspense thriller. The storyline is action-packed in terms of the arsonist subplot and filled with angst re the relationship between Liam and Sophie. Although TAKING THE HEAT stands alone, with the O'Neil family playing major roles, reading the previous tales enhances the experience. Once again Kathryn Shay pays homage to the brave firefighters.” Harriet Klausner
“TAKING THE HEAT is an emotional roller coaster ride that hits so many real life issues facing career women in today's world. As each O'Neil book comes out, I find myself drawn more and more into their world. I'll be waiting very impatiently for the last two brothers' books.” Joyfully Reviewed
Also available: the O’Neil brothers’ stories in SOMEONE TO BELIEVE IN, CLOSE TO YOU, HIGH STAKES and ALWAYS AND FOREVER, contemporary romances with hot heroes and the strong women who love them. Don’t miss these Irish romance series of novels.
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First published May 6, 2008
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About the author
Kathryn Shay
173 books501 followersKathryn Shay is a lifelong writer. At fifteen, she penned her first 'romance,' a short story about a female newspaper reporter in New York City and her fight to make a name for herself in a world of male journalists - and with one hardheaded editor in particular. Looking back, Kathryn says she should have known then that writing was in her future. But as so often happens, fate sent her detouring down another path.
Fully intending to pursue her dream of big city lights and success in the literary world, Kathryn took every creative writing class available at the small private women's college she attended in upstate New York. Instead, other dreams took precedence. She met and subsequently married a wonderful guy who'd attended a neighboring school, then completed her practice teaching, a requirement for the education degree she never intended to use. But says Kathryn, "I fell in love with teaching the first day I was up in front of a class, and knew I was meant to do that."
Kathryn went on to build a successful career in the New York state school system, thoroughly enjoying her work with adolescents. But by the early 1990s, she'd again made room in her life for writing. It was then that she submitted her first manuscript to publishers and agents. Despite enduring two years of rejections, she persevered. And on a snowy December afternoon in 1994, Kathryn Shay sold her first book to Harlequin Superromance.
Since that first sale, Kathryn has written twenty-one books for Harlequin, nine mainstream contemporary romances for the Berkley Publishing Group, and two online novellas, which Berkley then published in traditional print format.
Kathryn has become known for her powerful characterizations - readers say they feel they know the people in her books - and her heart-wrenching, emotional writing (her favorite comments are that fans cried while reading her books or stayed up late to finish them). In testament to her skill, the author has won five RT BookClub Magazine Reviewers Choice Awards, three Holt Medallions, two Desert Quill Awards, the Golden Leaf Award, and several online accolades.
Even in light of her writing success, that initial love of teaching never wavered for Kathryn. She finished out her teaching career in 2004, retiring from the same school where her career began. These days, she lives in upstate New York with her husband and two children. "My life is very full," she reports, "but very happy. I consider myself fortunate to have been able to pursue and achieve my dreams."
Fully intending to pursue her dream of big city lights and success in the literary world, Kathryn took every creative writing class available at the small private women's college she attended in upstate New York. Instead, other dreams took precedence. She met and subsequently married a wonderful guy who'd attended a neighboring school, then completed her practice teaching, a requirement for the education degree she never intended to use. But says Kathryn, "I fell in love with teaching the first day I was up in front of a class, and knew I was meant to do that."
Kathryn went on to build a successful career in the New York state school system, thoroughly enjoying her work with adolescents. But by the early 1990s, she'd again made room in her life for writing. It was then that she submitted her first manuscript to publishers and agents. Despite enduring two years of rejections, she persevered. And on a snowy December afternoon in 1994, Kathryn Shay sold her first book to Harlequin Superromance.
Since that first sale, Kathryn has written twenty-one books for Harlequin, nine mainstream contemporary romances for the Berkley Publishing Group, and two online novellas, which Berkley then published in traditional print format.
Kathryn has become known for her powerful characterizations - readers say they feel they know the people in her books - and her heart-wrenching, emotional writing (her favorite comments are that fans cried while reading her books or stayed up late to finish them). In testament to her skill, the author has won five RT BookClub Magazine Reviewers Choice Awards, three Holt Medallions, two Desert Quill Awards, the Golden Leaf Award, and several online accolades.
Even in light of her writing success, that initial love of teaching never wavered for Kathryn. She finished out her teaching career in 2004, retiring from the same school where her career began. These days, she lives in upstate New York with her husband and two children. "My life is very full," she reports, "but very happy. I consider myself fortunate to have been able to pursue and achieve my dreams."
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews
June 15, 2008
Reviewed for queuemyreview.com; book release May 2008
This is a very difficult review to write. “Taking the Heat” by Kathryn Shay was a heart-wrenching read. Shay has written a very gritty and powerful book about the difficulties people face every day when they are involved in relationships with our heroes: public officials, law enforcement, military, and firefighters. I almost hesitate to call it a romance, though it certainly does tell the story of two people coming together. But this is a view of the harsher side of the story, more realistic if you like. If you’re looking for hearts and flowers and a light read, this is definitely not the book for you.
There are so many emotions felt and portrayed in this tale. The fear felt by those who are left behind at home when our heroes are out risking their lives to fight a fire, protect a life, or defend our country. The exhaustion of being a single parent while they are gone, the resentment caused by missed holidays, birthdays, and anniversaries, the dread of waiting for news when they are missing, the terror of late night phone calls and the agony of hospital waiting rooms when they are hurt. How can a relationship survive in these situations…especially when they occur over and over again? The sad fact is that the majority don’t. These professions have always had some of the highest divorce rates and that isn’t likely to change. It truly takes a very special kind of individual to be a hero, and one just as special to stay married to one. I’ve read a lot of romance over the years, and rarely have I seen these issues addressed as realistically as in this book.
I haven’t read Shay’s earlier novels about the O’Neil family and it isn’t necessary to do so to follow this story. Liam O’Neil is the quiet one. He married his high school sweetheart, had two sons, and worked in the family business. Three years ago, his wife died of ovarian cancer and he and his sons were devastated. His youngest, Mike, is still having difficulties adjusting and is undergoing therapy for depression.
Sophie is a firefighter. She and her brother were saved by firemen from a house fire that killed her mother and then virtually adopted by the firehouse crew where she now works. Her whole life revolves around her job and she doesn’t think she could ever do anything else. She’s had to fight hard both physically and mentally to be successful in such a male dominated profession that still harbors a few hardcore anti-women oppositionists.
The story follows these two who at first fight their attraction for each other. Liam and his sons need security and Sophie’s job certainly won’t provide that. The ups and downs of this relationship and the relationships of Liam’s brothers are stormy to say the least. One of his brothers is engaged to a Secret Service agent, his sister if married to the vice-president of the United States, and Sophie’s brother is currently serving in Iraq. Each of these situations causes difficulties for Liam and Sophie. Their relationship is on-again, off-again throughout most of the book because of this.
Did I enjoy this book? I don’t know if I can say enjoy is the right word. It sucked me in and I was riveted. I felt for each of the players as they struggled with all the uncertainties associated with falling and staying in love and the additional burdens of the lives of our heroes. As a military veteran who was and still is married to another veteran, this book hit a little too close to home for me. It reminded me of long separations, missed events, and constant worries. If you aren’t familiar with these things…you should bless whatever higher power you serve that you haven’t had to deal with them. If you are familiar with these things, this story may be a little too realistic for you. On the other hand, it may give you hope and courage to continue and hang on when things get tough. Either way, it’s a powerful story. “Taking the Heat” is a good title for Kathryn Shay’s novel. It has the heat of passion, the heat of the fires Sophie fights, and the heat that every relationship faces when the hard times come. Powerful and moving and just a little too true to life for me.
This is a very difficult review to write. “Taking the Heat” by Kathryn Shay was a heart-wrenching read. Shay has written a very gritty and powerful book about the difficulties people face every day when they are involved in relationships with our heroes: public officials, law enforcement, military, and firefighters. I almost hesitate to call it a romance, though it certainly does tell the story of two people coming together. But this is a view of the harsher side of the story, more realistic if you like. If you’re looking for hearts and flowers and a light read, this is definitely not the book for you.
There are so many emotions felt and portrayed in this tale. The fear felt by those who are left behind at home when our heroes are out risking their lives to fight a fire, protect a life, or defend our country. The exhaustion of being a single parent while they are gone, the resentment caused by missed holidays, birthdays, and anniversaries, the dread of waiting for news when they are missing, the terror of late night phone calls and the agony of hospital waiting rooms when they are hurt. How can a relationship survive in these situations…especially when they occur over and over again? The sad fact is that the majority don’t. These professions have always had some of the highest divorce rates and that isn’t likely to change. It truly takes a very special kind of individual to be a hero, and one just as special to stay married to one. I’ve read a lot of romance over the years, and rarely have I seen these issues addressed as realistically as in this book.
I haven’t read Shay’s earlier novels about the O’Neil family and it isn’t necessary to do so to follow this story. Liam O’Neil is the quiet one. He married his high school sweetheart, had two sons, and worked in the family business. Three years ago, his wife died of ovarian cancer and he and his sons were devastated. His youngest, Mike, is still having difficulties adjusting and is undergoing therapy for depression.
Sophie is a firefighter. She and her brother were saved by firemen from a house fire that killed her mother and then virtually adopted by the firehouse crew where she now works. Her whole life revolves around her job and she doesn’t think she could ever do anything else. She’s had to fight hard both physically and mentally to be successful in such a male dominated profession that still harbors a few hardcore anti-women oppositionists.
The story follows these two who at first fight their attraction for each other. Liam and his sons need security and Sophie’s job certainly won’t provide that. The ups and downs of this relationship and the relationships of Liam’s brothers are stormy to say the least. One of his brothers is engaged to a Secret Service agent, his sister if married to the vice-president of the United States, and Sophie’s brother is currently serving in Iraq. Each of these situations causes difficulties for Liam and Sophie. Their relationship is on-again, off-again throughout most of the book because of this.
Did I enjoy this book? I don’t know if I can say enjoy is the right word. It sucked me in and I was riveted. I felt for each of the players as they struggled with all the uncertainties associated with falling and staying in love and the additional burdens of the lives of our heroes. As a military veteran who was and still is married to another veteran, this book hit a little too close to home for me. It reminded me of long separations, missed events, and constant worries. If you aren’t familiar with these things…you should bless whatever higher power you serve that you haven’t had to deal with them. If you are familiar with these things, this story may be a little too realistic for you. On the other hand, it may give you hope and courage to continue and hang on when things get tough. Either way, it’s a powerful story. “Taking the Heat” is a good title for Kathryn Shay’s novel. It has the heat of passion, the heat of the fires Sophie fights, and the heat that every relationship faces when the hard times come. Powerful and moving and just a little too true to life for me.
May 14, 2016
It's been three years since Liam O'Neil lost his wife to cancer. When his family pushes him to get out and date again, Liam sets his sights on a young firefighter who works part-time at his family's pub. Sophie Tyler needs the extra money so she can afford to live close to her fire station. Her interest in Liam turns into love as she gets to know Liam and his family. But Liam is wary of falling for a woman with such a dangerous profession. His youngest son, Michael, is depressed and has abandonment issues since his mother died. When Sophie is injured in the line of duty, Michael's reaction makes Liam take a second look at his relationship with Sophie.
This is the third book in Kathryn Shay's O'Neil series. Shay's books always take a look at realistic problems in a relationship. How do you deal with the dangers in your partner's profession? Though I liked the characters, I thought the story spent way too much time rehashing the same conversations over and over. There was an arsonist on the loose who seemed to be setting fires in the same district that Sophie's team covered. It could have been a good suspense story, but was just written as an afterthought with the revelation off-screen. My rating: 3.5 Stars.
This is the third book in Kathryn Shay's O'Neil series. Shay's books always take a look at realistic problems in a relationship. How do you deal with the dangers in your partner's profession? Though I liked the characters, I thought the story spent way too much time rehashing the same conversations over and over. There was an arsonist on the loose who seemed to be setting fires in the same district that Sophie's team covered. It could have been a good suspense story, but was just written as an afterthought with the revelation off-screen. My rating: 3.5 Stars.
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January 17, 2019I really struggle with novels in which 'hazing' (ie; outright bullying and intimidation) of colleagues is taken for granted. FFS, these people are supposed to be the ones 'protecting' the public not acting like idiots. And bullying is never ever acceptable. If adults are allowed to get away with this sort of behaviour then no wonder children are being raped in 'hazing' ceremonies in schools in the US.
This book includes descriptions of 'accepted' adult bullying in the workplace. It's not acceptable.Workplace bullying is the same as bullying at school. Its not 'manly' or 'clever' or in any way justified.
It might have been 'accepted' in the past but, there again, so was slavery.
Not rating at this time.
This book includes descriptions of 'accepted' adult bullying in the workplace. It's not acceptable.Workplace bullying is the same as bullying at school. Its not 'manly' or 'clever' or in any way justified.
It might have been 'accepted' in the past but, there again, so was slavery.
Not rating at this time.
January 18, 2019
Three and a half stars.
Third in a series but easily read as a stand-alone, clearly intended to be part of a long series about the O'Neil family and relations.
Liam O'Neil is a widower with two small children. His wife Kitty died of cancer three years ago and his youngest son Mikey isn't coping well. Liam works as a chef at the family bar in New York Bailey's Irish Pub (named after his sister).
Sophie Tyler is a fire-fighter. She and her crew eat regularly at Bailey's and when her roommate leaves to move in with her boyfriend Sophie decides that rather than find another roommate she will get another job - tending bar at her local seems like a winner.
Whilst Liam and Sophie's romance heats up things are looking bad on the work front, a fire-starter is setting blazes all over New York and seems to be targeting Sophie's crew.
There are lots of family sagas/series involving large Irish Catholic families, usually in New York, with a significant number of boys most of whom go into the emergency services one wat
Third in a series but easily read as a stand-alone, clearly intended to be part of a long series about the O'Neil family and relations.
Liam O'Neil is a widower with two small children. His wife Kitty died of cancer three years ago and his youngest son Mikey isn't coping well. Liam works as a chef at the family bar in New York Bailey's Irish Pub (named after his sister).
Sophie Tyler is a fire-fighter. She and her crew eat regularly at Bailey's and when her roommate leaves to move in with her boyfriend Sophie decides that rather than find another roommate she will get another job - tending bar at her local seems like a winner.
Whilst Liam and Sophie's romance heats up things are looking bad on the work front, a fire-starter is setting blazes all over New York and seems to be targeting Sophie's crew.
There are lots of family sagas/series involving large Irish Catholic families, usually in New York, with a significant number of boys most of whom go into the emergency services one wat
January 9, 2020
Sophie Tyler, a firefighter is considering taking a part-time job as a waitress and bartender at Bailey’s Irish Pub, co-owned by the O’Neil brothers: Patrick, Liam, and Dylan. Her ex-roommate recently got married and moved out. Instead of looking for a new roommate, Hannah she decides to get a second job so she can afford the rent herself.
Sophie and Liam can’t deny they both have feelings for each other and soon sparks fly between them. But Liam’s worries about Sophie’s line of work. He lost his wife three years ago and he and his sons Mikey and Cleary have had a hard time coping. Liam doesn’t want to go through the ordeal of losing a loved one again.
Oh my goodness. I loved this book, the O’Neil clan, and Mikey is such a sweetheart. Would recommend.
Sophie and Liam can’t deny they both have feelings for each other and soon sparks fly between them. But Liam’s worries about Sophie’s line of work. He lost his wife three years ago and he and his sons Mikey and Cleary have had a hard time coping. Liam doesn’t want to go through the ordeal of losing a loved one again.
Oh my goodness. I loved this book, the O’Neil clan, and Mikey is such a sweetheart. Would recommend.
April 5, 2020
Me ha gustado más de lo que esperaba. El punto original de la trama, que ella sea la bombero y él el padre con hijos, me ha parecido un descanso comparándola con otras novelas parecidas que había leído y donde los roles de género estaban más estandarizados.
Liam es viudo padre de dos hijos, le ha costado casi tres años superar la muerte de su mujer y cuando empieza a sentirse atraído por Sophie el sentimiento de culpa ya ha quedado atrás. Sin embargo, el trabajo de Sophie es el mayor escollo en su relación ya que el hijo pequeño de Liam aún llora a su madre y la peligrosidad de su trabajo no ayuda al pequeño. Entre los dos tendrán que buscar una forma de conseguir una relación fuerte y duradera y que no dañe a los que más quieren.
No ha estado mal, no es un novelón, y todo lo relacionado con el Vicepresidente de USA (que por lo visto es de otra serie anterior, esta creo que es un spi-off) a mí me sobraba pero en general se lee rápido y la trama del pirómano ha estado muy interesante.
Liam es viudo padre de dos hijos, le ha costado casi tres años superar la muerte de su mujer y cuando empieza a sentirse atraído por Sophie el sentimiento de culpa ya ha quedado atrás. Sin embargo, el trabajo de Sophie es el mayor escollo en su relación ya que el hijo pequeño de Liam aún llora a su madre y la peligrosidad de su trabajo no ayuda al pequeño. Entre los dos tendrán que buscar una forma de conseguir una relación fuerte y duradera y que no dañe a los que más quieren.
No ha estado mal, no es un novelón, y todo lo relacionado con el Vicepresidente de USA (que por lo visto es de otra serie anterior, esta creo que es un spi-off) a mí me sobraba pero en general se lee rápido y la trama del pirómano ha estado muy interesante.
June 6, 2015
Wonderful story
I love to read Kathryn What's books. There are few Authors who can get into a character and make them real, breathing people to me. I loved the way she developed Mikey. Just being able to developed a child character is great. If you want a books (or series) where you are pulled into the life of a character, read any of Kathryn's books. I highly recommend it.
I love to read Kathryn What's books. There are few Authors who can get into a character and make them real, breathing people to me. I loved the way she developed Mikey. Just being able to developed a child character is great. If you want a books (or series) where you are pulled into the life of a character, read any of Kathryn's books. I highly recommend it.
July 25, 2019
More a 3.5
There are good things, others not so interesting.
I mostly liked the family interactions and the funny/sweet moments. The angst in some scenes was well done but I think it drags too much and with a resolution right at the end, it feels the problems weren't really solved or thought over in a way that would convince readers it is for real.
There are good things, others not so interesting.
I mostly liked the family interactions and the funny/sweet moments. The angst in some scenes was well done but I think it drags too much and with a resolution right at the end, it feels the problems weren't really solved or thought over in a way that would convince readers it is for real.
January 24, 2019
Contemporary romance for adults
So many contemporary romances put sexual exploits ahead of relationship development that I was surprised at the time this author took to develop both main characters as well as their often difficult relationship.
One of the most interesting aspects of this novel is that the usual roles of the two main characters. Liam is the lonely, still grieving widower raising his two sons in the bosom of his large, extended family. He co-owns a bar with his brothers and is their chief cook. Sophie is a fireman on dangerous active duty. Firefighting has been her dream since the age of 10 and she has confronted both the physical demands of the job as well as the prejudices inherent in a male dominated field. Their outlooks, deepest concerns and perspectives are flip-flopped from what you’d find in many contemporary romances out today,
The central conflict is Liam’s deep concern over becoming involved with a women he might potentially lose to the hazards of her job. His sons are still dealing with the death of their mother so his concerns are justified. I found his sensitivity to his sons’ needs and his concerns for them as well as himself, a bit unusual when most contemporary novels promote the ultra-masculine, dominant alpha male. It’s refreshing to see a man with a well developed sense of responsibility to his children’s emotional health. Liam is no weakling, but he puts his kids front and center.
I also liked the communication between the two main characters. There were no contrived, silly misunderstandings, closely guarded, hurtful secrets or silences between the two. I feared that Sophie would cave in to Liam’s demands to leave the fire service but what they ultimately decided was realistic and respectful of both of their needs.
Bottom line: this is a contemporary romance for grownups that even though it is the 4th book in the series, can be read as a stand-alone. I applaud Ms. Shay for creating unique, relatable characters.
So many contemporary romances put sexual exploits ahead of relationship development that I was surprised at the time this author took to develop both main characters as well as their often difficult relationship.
One of the most interesting aspects of this novel is that the usual roles of the two main characters. Liam is the lonely, still grieving widower raising his two sons in the bosom of his large, extended family. He co-owns a bar with his brothers and is their chief cook. Sophie is a fireman on dangerous active duty. Firefighting has been her dream since the age of 10 and she has confronted both the physical demands of the job as well as the prejudices inherent in a male dominated field. Their outlooks, deepest concerns and perspectives are flip-flopped from what you’d find in many contemporary romances out today,
The central conflict is Liam’s deep concern over becoming involved with a women he might potentially lose to the hazards of her job. His sons are still dealing with the death of their mother so his concerns are justified. I found his sensitivity to his sons’ needs and his concerns for them as well as himself, a bit unusual when most contemporary novels promote the ultra-masculine, dominant alpha male. It’s refreshing to see a man with a well developed sense of responsibility to his children’s emotional health. Liam is no weakling, but he puts his kids front and center.
I also liked the communication between the two main characters. There were no contrived, silly misunderstandings, closely guarded, hurtful secrets or silences between the two. I feared that Sophie would cave in to Liam’s demands to leave the fire service but what they ultimately decided was realistic and respectful of both of their needs.
Bottom line: this is a contemporary romance for grownups that even though it is the 4th book in the series, can be read as a stand-alone. I applaud Ms. Shay for creating unique, relatable characters.
February 19, 2019
I think I’ve just found a new favorite book family. I definitely know I’m gonna want to know all about the rest of the O’Neil family, that’s for sure! Taking the Heat is all about Liam. Liam the Manipulator. Aiden is the brother that intrigued me from the beginning, maybe because of his relationship with their sister, Bailey. Liam came in a very, very close second.
Taking the Heat features Liam, of course, and Sophie, a firefighter. It seems that the O’Neil boys can’t stay away from females that have dangerous careers. Liam is no stranger to tragedy and loss. His wife, his high school sweetheart, died of cancer three years prior to Taking the Heat. He was one the first of the brothers to tell Aiden to take the risk with CJ. After all, his wife had a perfectly safe life and died anyway. There are no guarantees in life, you live it the best you can and don’t let it slip past you. Now, it’s time for Liam to put his money where his mouth is. He knows he’s ready, but as his relationship with Sophie deepens and is tested, he’s not sure he can. There is more to consider than just himself.
All of the books in this series have had an element of intrigue and suspense in them. I think Taking the Heat ramps up the suspense. There is an arsonist loose in NYC and he’s (or is that she's?) targeting the FDNY. I had several suspects going through my head but it wasn’t until the last few chapters that I was pretty certain I’d nailed it down. I’m happy to say I was correct.
This story is filled with wonderful characters that you’ll wish you could hang out with at Bailey’s Irish Pub. It’s fast-paced and entertaining. It is one you’ll wish you didn’t have to put down.
Taking the Heat features Liam, of course, and Sophie, a firefighter. It seems that the O’Neil boys can’t stay away from females that have dangerous careers. Liam is no stranger to tragedy and loss. His wife, his high school sweetheart, died of cancer three years prior to Taking the Heat. He was one the first of the brothers to tell Aiden to take the risk with CJ. After all, his wife had a perfectly safe life and died anyway. There are no guarantees in life, you live it the best you can and don’t let it slip past you. Now, it’s time for Liam to put his money where his mouth is. He knows he’s ready, but as his relationship with Sophie deepens and is tested, he’s not sure he can. There is more to consider than just himself.
All of the books in this series have had an element of intrigue and suspense in them. I think Taking the Heat ramps up the suspense. There is an arsonist loose in NYC and he’s (or is that she's?) targeting the FDNY. I had several suspects going through my head but it wasn’t until the last few chapters that I was pretty certain I’d nailed it down. I’m happy to say I was correct.
This story is filled with wonderful characters that you’ll wish you could hang out with at Bailey’s Irish Pub. It’s fast-paced and entertaining. It is one you’ll wish you didn’t have to put down.
July 3, 2019
A good solid mix of romance and drama, well told.
When Firefighter Sophie and widowed O'Neil brother Liam fall in love, problems have to be expected. Both protagonists (incredibly good-looking, of course - and I cannot prevent an eye-roll here!) are likeable but despite their actions within the story, they do come over as incredibly weak as well occasionally, which however, doesn't distract from the story. The problems they face, i.e. Sophie's constantly being in danger, is something all spouses of firefighters, policemen and -women, and soldiers, etc., all over the world have to face and somehow live with, and I not only admire all those who risk their lives for others, but their spouses for dealing with it as well.
How they try to overcome these problems and find a solution, with the help of their blood-related or professional families, is a joy to read, although some thought processes are a bit repetitive or just, for me at least, plainly not understandable.
I just wish there were fewer spelling errors!
Otherwise, a good book, a standalone in this series (I have not as yet read the first two), and I think I will read the others as well.
When Firefighter Sophie and widowed O'Neil brother Liam fall in love, problems have to be expected. Both protagonists (incredibly good-looking, of course - and I cannot prevent an eye-roll here!) are likeable but despite their actions within the story, they do come over as incredibly weak as well occasionally, which however, doesn't distract from the story. The problems they face, i.e. Sophie's constantly being in danger, is something all spouses of firefighters, policemen and -women, and soldiers, etc., all over the world have to face and somehow live with, and I not only admire all those who risk their lives for others, but their spouses for dealing with it as well.
How they try to overcome these problems and find a solution, with the help of their blood-related or professional families, is a joy to read, although some thought processes are a bit repetitive or just, for me at least, plainly not understandable.
I just wish there were fewer spelling errors!
Otherwise, a good book, a standalone in this series (I have not as yet read the first two), and I think I will read the others as well.
January 21, 2019
This book has so much heart. Sophie is a NYC firefighter who has fought hard for her position – against stereotypes, sexism, the media, and more. All she knows is the fire department until she meets Liam. Liam knows loss. His family is tight, which has kept him going since his wife’s death. The O’Neil’s work together, which helps with Liam raising his two sons. But Liam (and his sons) are lonely for a woman’s influence, and it seems Sophie is their choice. Can Liam overcome his fears? Can the boys actually let someone in besides their mom? Can Sophie keep up the intensity at work and have a life outside the fire department? For it to work, to all come together, they will need to learn to compromise – and they’re (all of them!) not very good at that!
It’s been a while since I’ve read the O’Neil’s. Now I want to go back and read the first two installments again. Author Kathryn Shay has a way of bringing the reader into the story and making you care about the characters. Laughter, tears, family, and love can be found here.
It’s been a while since I’ve read the O’Neil’s. Now I want to go back and read the first two installments again. Author Kathryn Shay has a way of bringing the reader into the story and making you care about the characters. Laughter, tears, family, and love can be found here.
February 10, 2020
Als kapstok gebruikt de schrijfster een romance tussen een weduwnaar met twee opgroeiende jongens en een vrouwelijke "firefighter". Eigenlijk zijn er verschillende thema's verweven in dit boek. Problemen die hulpdiensten tegenkomen, problemen om met een volle baan rond te komen in het huidige Amerika (maar binnen Europa niet anders), hoe gaan partners om met niet bepaald 9-5 werktijden, problemen met opvoeden van een alleenstaande vader, etc.
En dit alles met een romantische saus, die op sommige plaatsen erg duidelijk wordt neergezet, waarbij ik zo iets heb van dat dit toch eigenlijk niets toevoegt aan het verhaal.
Had wat moeite om in het verhaal te komen (heel veel verschillende karakters) maar gaandeweg een vlot geschreven boek.
En dit alles met een romantische saus, die op sommige plaatsen erg duidelijk wordt neergezet, waarbij ik zo iets heb van dat dit toch eigenlijk niets toevoegt aan het verhaal.
Had wat moeite om in het verhaal te komen (heel veel verschillende karakters) maar gaandeweg een vlot geschreven boek.
December 24, 2018
Liam wife died three years ago, his youngest son Michael seems to be taking it the hardest, looking sad all the time. Cleary his other boy seemed to be okay. Liam feels better now that he pulling his weight of earning, now with fixing breakfast at the pub. Sophia is working at the pub, to earn extra, her regular job is a firefighter. Attracted to her,but she has a dangerous job, doesn’t want to risk losing someone again. His family tellIng him like it is, and they have his back. They want to see him, find someone and be a family again, they can tell he is angry and lonely. Her books are real, of the emotion that Liam is going thru. Makes good reading of how it was handled.
August 2, 2020
Taking the Heat is the third book in the O'Neil Brothers Series by Kathryn Shay. I have been debating on what rating to give this book. I generally liked the book. Kathryn Shay does a great job of writing about the difficulties of the life of a firefighter. I also liked that the O'Neil family bands together for one another and Sophie. I thought the arsonist part of the story could have been flushed out more. It seemed to abruptly end. Overall, I liked the characters. Liam and Sophie did not have an easy time in regards to their relationship. I thought Taking the heat was a really good book.
January 17, 2022
I absolutely love this series. This is probably my fourth time reading the series since I found it many, many years ago. I still love it as much as I did then.
I absolutely loved Liam and Sophie. I've been so excited to see him find love again. You could tell he had the true love with Kitty but I needed and wanted to see him happy again. It took a while to get there with all of the obstacles but I'm so glad him and Sophie worked it out. I absolutely loved Sophie. They are perfect together.
It was also great to see all of the other O'Neil's and their respective others, Bailey and her family.
I absolutely loved Liam and Sophie. I've been so excited to see him find love again. You could tell he had the true love with Kitty but I needed and wanted to see him happy again. It took a while to get there with all of the obstacles but I'm so glad him and Sophie worked it out. I absolutely loved Sophie. They are perfect together.
It was also great to see all of the other O'Neil's and their respective others, Bailey and her family.
January 6, 2019
Tough Decisions
Another great book from Kathryn. I love how all the series intertwine with each other but give each family a footing of their own. Liam is raising his two boys after his wife passes away from cancer. Three years and nobody seems to interest him until he meets Sophie, a female firefighter. She thinks he's a handsome man after spending time in the pub. But they have a lot to overcome.
Another great book from Kathryn. I love how all the series intertwine with each other but give each family a footing of their own. Liam is raising his two boys after his wife passes away from cancer. Three years and nobody seems to interest him until he meets Sophie, a female firefighter. She thinks he's a handsome man after spending time in the pub. But they have a lot to overcome.
January 10, 2019
Firemen and Family
Kathryn Shay’s books are always exciting, family oriented and heart wrenching. “Taking the The Heat” is no exception. Could you deal with your loved one putting themselves in danger every day just doing their job? Find out how Liam O’Neil and Sophie deal with this problem. You’ll be glad you did.
Kathryn Shay’s books are always exciting, family oriented and heart wrenching. “Taking the The Heat” is no exception. Could you deal with your loved one putting themselves in danger every day just doing their job? Find out how Liam O’Neil and Sophie deal with this problem. You’ll be glad you did.
April 19, 2019
Surprising
This is almost an excellent book. Even secondary characters are well drawn. The New York City setting is clearly delineated. The happy resolution stayed uncertain until the end.
That said, poor copyediting (wrong forms of words and incorrect punctuation) were a problem throughout.
This is almost an excellent book. Even secondary characters are well drawn. The New York City setting is clearly delineated. The happy resolution stayed uncertain until the end.
That said, poor copyediting (wrong forms of words and incorrect punctuation) were a problem throughout.
September 29, 2023
Taking the Heat
The widower and the firefighter. Fear and stress of possible harm coming to those you love and how it may influence choices is explored as well as the biases exhibited towards women in firefighting careers. Personally, I have a problem with characters not realizing that even a little time with someone you love is better than none.
The widower and the firefighter. Fear and stress of possible harm coming to those you love and how it may influence choices is explored as well as the biases exhibited towards women in firefighting careers. Personally, I have a problem with characters not realizing that even a little time with someone you love is better than none.
May 4, 2024
Author needs to fact check
Nice enough story, but the glaring errors pulled this reader out of the story. I.E. Grace O’Malley lived in the 1500’s and even had a meeting with Elizabeth the First. Also from my first hand knowledge and research Sinead is a woman’s name not genderless.
Nice enough story, but the glaring errors pulled this reader out of the story. I.E. Grace O’Malley lived in the 1500’s and even had a meeting with Elizabeth the First. Also from my first hand knowledge and research Sinead is a woman’s name not genderless.
February 5, 2019
I really enjoyed this story and I enjoy this author. I very much want to buy the additional books in this series but do not have the money at this time. I recommend it. The O'Neil's are a great family.
January 15, 2019
Wow
Just loving this family. The emotions that you run through whilst reading are so deep. This writer has you feeling the emotional pain.
Love the catch up with all the family members.
Narration was awesome too.
Just loving this family. The emotions that you run through whilst reading are so deep. This writer has you feeling the emotional pain.
Love the catch up with all the family members.
Narration was awesome too.
January 23, 2019
Was very good to read learned a lot about firefighter and their families and their work
D their lives they're very dedicated and St as ND together at work and leisure I'm sure it will inspire people to join the firebrigrade
D their lives they're very dedicated and St as ND together at work and leisure I'm sure it will inspire people to join the firebrigrade
January 27, 2019
This was pretty intense as the title suggests. How does a female fighter in NYC fall in love when he life is in danger daily and can this O'Neil brother deal with that after he has already lost one wife.
March 30, 2019
Loved it!
Can't get enough of these books. Love how you get to know the characters. You can put yourself in there shoes and relate. So in-depth, makes some of life's issues seem small in comparison.
Love the fact that she has done her homework.
Can't get enough of these books. Love how you get to know the characters. You can put yourself in there shoes and relate. So in-depth, makes some of life's issues seem small in comparison.
Love the fact that she has done her homework.
March 30, 2019
Strengthened thru fire
Sophie and Liam certainly have good chemistry. But, Sophie's job as a firefighter keeps them always off balance. Liam also worries about how his son's are impacted.
Sophie and Liam certainly have good chemistry. But, Sophie's job as a firefighter keeps them always off balance. Liam also worries about how his son's are impacted.
June 10, 2019
Although I found the book a bit repetitive there was enough substance to keep me reading. I would have liked a bit more about the sub plot in this book, it was there in the background and did have a few pages dedicated to it but then the ending did seem a bit rushed.
April 9, 2020
I have now read a few books written by Kathryn Shay and have enjoyed all of them. This one had a story where the female was in a dangerous job and the male partner could not accept that this would be heir life long term. A good read. Bring on more of them Kathryn.
May 27, 2021
Boring
I loved the first book in this series but this one couldn't keep my interest. Was slow and boring. Depressing too. To be a firefighter and to can't pay your rent with your salary. At middle age to need a second job just to pay your rent. Everyone was so sad.
I loved the first book in this series but this one couldn't keep my interest. Was slow and boring. Depressing too. To be a firefighter and to can't pay your rent with your salary. At middle age to need a second job just to pay your rent. Everyone was so sad.
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