Stars of Life

by Ashley Willow

Alyssa finds herself in the middle of a divorce while trying to finish paramedic school and work full time. She turns to a long-time friend and colleague for support, which quickly turns into more, but things need to be kept quiet due to the nature of their professional relationship.

Things unravel when she is brutally attacked and has to fight for her life. Now she must learn the difference between surviving and living, and try not to lose her second chance along the way.

A relationship isn't even on Michael's radar. He is always careful to keep his professional life separate from his personal life, but the lines become blurred when it comes to Alyssa. Risking his reputation as a preceptor seems like no big deal. The risk becomes a strong possibility when he walks in on her being attacked and their secret comes out. Now he finds himself in an unfamiliar situation at work while his personal life is in a place he never thought he would see again.

Stars of Life is a full-length novel following the excitement and heartbreak these two first responders witness daily, along with the steamy romance that keeps them going.

Content This book contains true-to-life medical scenarios which include victims of violence and loss of life.

Genres: Romance

264 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 22, 2023

About the author

I'm a bookworm. My family teases me because I'll even read a book while I watch TV. Watching the game? Yup, I'm reading during the commercials.

Writing started off as a hobby. I would write what I wanted to read. When I was younger, I thought it was fun to write better versions of my favorite books... it all went well until the epic smut I wrote was discovered and I got grounded for two weeks.
Now I can't get grounded anymore :)

Reviews

[Shellie · Rating 5 out of 5]

There have been a few medical/romance books that I’ve read that have been as good as I wanted them to be and I received this book as an ARC for an honest review.

In Nursing school I was told that you will either get married, get pregnant, or have a death in your family. (I had all 3)

This is a story that really touched me as Alyssa is having martial troubles while going thru paramedic school/training. She has heartbreak, trauma, twists and turns, and love.
I really enjoyed this book by Ashley Willow. I had a difficult time writing this review without spoilers because if the description seems like your cup of tea, read it!

[Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC reader here. This book was so great to me! I have always been a sucker for medical shows with romance, but to have it in a book made it that more awesome. Ashley captivates her readers with this story of love, pain, medical moments from an EMTs daily life, life scares and more. She brings to life a sweet and steamy life of the main characters Alyssa and Michael in a story that keeps you guessing and turning the page as quickly as possible! I loved this story alot! ❤️ I really hope others will too because it definitely is worth the read. And so believable that it's like it's playing right in front of you. Thank you Ashley for giving me the opportunity to read this book!

[Laney Lockett · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is about the love story between Alyssa and Michael, two members of emergency medical services. I devoured this book in a few days. My heart truly went out to Alyssa. I could feel the pain and struggles she was wading through in this story - which was a lot!

I appreciated the medical details, which were accurate and added depth to the story. I’d say the only downside to the book were some passages were a bit repetitive but I definitely was pulled into the story and wanted to discover the outcome for Alyssa and Michael.

Looking forward to more from Ashley Willow, thank you for the opportunity to read this book!

Advanced Reader Copy review. These opinions are my own.

[Camy Jo W · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC reader here. I loved this book. Loved the fast pace, the medical drama was great and accurate and the characters, I fell in love with them right away (of course minus Derrick)
I was hooked after the first chapter and needed to keep reading. I needed to know what happened!


I loved these characters so much I was sad that it ended.

[TiffanyZReads · Rating 2 out of 5]

Ok so I am going to be completely honest and unbiased. I loved the first portain of the book all the way up until she brutal attack. There was such promise in the storyline. For a hot minute I thought there was going to be some crazy storyline with her psychotic ex husband. I think in my opinion Willow focused way too much on her job portion rather than the big moments that happened in the book.
For example
#1 The cheating scandal
#2 The Mediation
# get to the root of why her ex husband was sooo fkn hostile.

To me I felt like when is the other shoe going to drop? There was this impending doom feeling I had throughout but never saw it happen. It was disappointing in that fact.
There was a lot of job talk and pretty much pointless dialogue between the POVs. I would have much rather known more about her husbands hostility than read about how Michaels work day went. Or read about some backstory on her and her husband's life prior to feel the pain she's is in. Get us connected more. Paint him a great man then hit us with the scandal.
It dragged a bit and towards the end it was a faster pace that I welcomed but again I just didn't understand the argument they had.
I felt like I got whiplash from both reactions to the pregnancy scare and then her reasoning to "well I gotta focus on me anyways ". It didn't make sense to me to want the baby so much then for him to react so extreme and then bam they are done without much dialogue as to why this all just unfolded the way it did.

I think another thing I caught myself doing a few times was trying to look back and make sense of time. There wasn't any indication of a time lapse. Only when the lapse happened did we know we were in the future. For me that was confusing. I would have liked an indication of time prior to reading the next chapter or a break in a chapter. It's confusing to read about how Michaels and her are together then boom all of a sudden they have been dating a couple months. I thought it was only like a week or so with the writing. Or when they went to trial one moment then bam no word of the sentencing ...only when she was asked how it went did we get the answer and it had already passed some time ago. I didn't like that.
Same for the mediation/divorce. There wasn't much mentioned on that and I wish there was. That alone had a lot of potential. Seeing how the two of them would be in the same room after some time. Add some drama to the story a bit. There could have been some wild action there.

For me I think the plot was there but the main talking points were reversed. It should have focused on the big moments rather than the calls on her job or her studying.

I am definitely not saying this to discourage the author at all. I think it just needed a little redirection and then the story would have been great.

[Veronica · Rating 2 out of 5]

Ok so this books wasn’t bad just because I rated it 2 stars ok. Let me explain
1. The books starts off with 2 major things happening at once so I was overwhelmed by it
2. I’m not one to really like/but will still read a book told in 3rd person just not a big fan
3. When things begin to settle the books gets very slow paced instead of my normal start slow end big.
4. There really ain’t a lot of back story to a lot for what’s happening in the book. The FMC goes through 2 major life changing things but it’s rushed to close them. Her divorce isn’t really mentioned. Her near death when she is needed in court isn’t a big part of it. And yes I k is this is about her career and getting through it but just more being said would have been nice.
5. The ending was somewhat abrupt to me. She gets what she wants then END.
Now I know MRS Ashley is an indie author and the story concept was a great one for her first book. Can’t wait to read any others she may be coming out with

[Armanda Spitzer · Rating 3 out of 5]

I had the opportunity to be an ARC reader for Stars of Life!

This is my first medical drama/romance book I’ve read and I enjoyed it!

Alyssa is an EMT who is attending paramedic school. Michael is a paramedic Alyssa has worked with for years. Alyssa leans on Michael for his friendship when she has to decide what to do about her marriage.

Alyssa and Michael end up becoming a couple and you can tell he genuinely cares for her but she has her doubts. Michael has helped Alyssa get through the trauma she has endured. I’m happy they get their happy ending!

Stars of Life is Ashley Willow’s debut novel. I am looking forward to read more novels from her!

[Brit · Rating 5 out of 5]

It took me a few chapters to really get hooked (please tell me there’s an audiobook coming soon!), but the chemistry between Alyssa and Michael pulled me in. It felt really natural: the struggles between desire and “professionalism” and on top of it navigating the logistics of exiting a relationship where there’s financial dependency is something women deal with ALL THE TIME, but we never really listen to those stories. But then again, this isn’t a story about Derrick. Michael is so sweet and so sexy and I love that Alyssa is finally in control of her own narrative. Can I get a sequel please?!

[Liz Ford · Rating 5 out of 5]

✨ ARC Reader✨ This book was so sweet! A traditional love story with a side of medical drama! It’s fast paced to keep engagement, as well as a little bit of heartbreak! But, the broken heart is fully recovered in no time! I thoroughly enjoyed this romance novel!

[Amber · Rating 4 out of 5]

Such a sweet medical romance. I really enjoyed reading Alyssa and Michaels love story, and seeing the growth Alyssa has through the book. If you like Grey's Anatomy you will love this book.

Pros: Quick, sweet, easy read. Different type on romance book.

Cons: The events in the book are repetitive.

Trope: Friends to lovers

TW: Cheating

ARC provided by author in exchange for honest review.

[Crystal Pollard · Rating 5 out of 5]

**Arc Reader**

I absolutely ate this book up!! I fell in love with the main characters and at points were wanting to scream at them. Can’t wait to read more from this author!

[Heather Mylek · Rating 5 out of 5]

AMAZING!! Love this medical romance! Perfect mix and beautiful love story!! Hard to put book down!

[Michele Telga · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this story! The combination of medical drama and a love story made this so compelling I was unable to stop reading. Alyssa and Mike were both likeable characters and i routed for them the whole time. I was lucky enough to be given an ARC copy , so thank you to Ashley Willow !

[Lori · Rating 5 out of 5]

A romance book about EMS characters?? Absolutely I want to read it. Not only did this book have a great story line, but was super authentic to what EMS life is like on a day to day basis. I was drawn in & had to keep reading to see what else life would throw at Alyssa. What a strong, kick ass female character. Loved the story line, the twists, the suspense, and the characters. Would definitely recommend to my EMS colleagues/romance lovers!

[Erica Booth · Rating 5 out of 5]

amazing!!!

Such a great book!! I can totally immerse myself into the characters and cannot wait for the next one!! I can hear the author’s voice in her characters! So great!!!

[Rebekah Killingsworth · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm a huge fan of all TV shows about medical (Grey's Anatomy and Station 19 my fav), so when I was given the opportunity to read an ARC copy of a medical themed romance, I jumped right on it. I enjoyed every second of this book. I really enjoyed the storyline. It kept me wanting more.
The FMC Alyssa is for sure a very strong character with all the things she went through in the book. Her relationship with Michael (MMC) was perfectly told. Their love for each other is something most of us women dream of. A love so pure and strong.
I can only hope there is more of this love story.

I HIGHLY recommend this book to anyone that loves romance

[Ashlynn Poole · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this book in a DAY. it was so hard to put it down.
The way Ashley brought these characters to life messed with my emotions so bad (in the best way possible)
I laughed, I cried, I kicked my feet like a lovesick fool.
Amazing work of art. Thank you Ashley for writing a beautiful story I will cherish forever

[Jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a good read. Truly recommend!

[JesseeKay · Rating 5 out of 5]

The perfect blend of medical drama and love story. I couldn’t put it down!

[morgan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book. It is accurate for the medical scene as well. It kept me entrapped with the story line that I didn't want to put it down! As read as an ARC!

[Marissa Danforth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Alyssa and Michael are perfect for each other and exactly what they needed for each other. I read this a while ago and I still think about it and check on her books waiting for her next release.

[Shelly Rogers · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've been dying to read this book, BUT as a first responder, it is often difficult to read a medical romance. More often times than not the stories will paint pictures that just are not feasible. It makes it even harder to enjoy the books because all I can is the errors in protocol or patient care. However, after learning that this author actually has a background in emergency medicine, my hesitancy slowly faded and here we are.

Well done! All five stars. It was amazing. For someone who has not been on a truck in a bit, I could see everything perfectly. Something as simple as the proper way to handle an asystole rhythm made me overly excited. I followed the scene for a low BGL (diabetic) perfectly. So from the medical responders point of view, THANK YOU.

As for the storyline itself, I was immediately drawn to Michael and Alyssa. I'm not one to normally read the blurb, so for the most part I walked in blind. I had no idea what to expect. From someone who primarily prefers dark romance, this was far from. And I found myself not wanting to put it down.

Alyssa is a FMC I can personally relate too. She felt very real. She is someone I could encounter. The overall character development of an EMT in Paramedic school trying to balance a failing marriage and where to go next was perfection. Alyssa is strong and determined, but also vulnerable. I appreciated being able to see the multiple sides to this character, considering that is how MOST people are.

Michael. I can only describe the MMC as a golden retriever, but also super supportive and the kind of man I think in some ways we all wish we had. He cares for Alyssa and put her feelings as a priority in the relationship. He was patient and understanding.

The background characters truly help solidify this book for me. As a first responder, those background characters are so very important. Because you do develop strong relationships with them. From coworkers to the hospital staff. I hope we see more of ALL of them. Especially Alyssa's partner, who's name at the moment escapes me. Also, often times being a first responder is hard. It comes with it's own set of challenges. It's not uncommon for burnout to happen and most responder deal with that in ways that most people won't understand. I found a lot of truth into how these characters dealt with certain situations/calls. Annoyance yes, but they still delivered the appropriate care. Tie that in with a traumatic incident happening while on the job, it can often be hard to handle. Having the support makes all the difference.

Let me not forget the spice! Not overly spicy, because there is a solid story without it, but it was a nice addition to the book. While I love spice, it isn't always the main focus. This is a book that would hold strong without it. The heat was there for sure. But it's the connection of the main characters that really had it blazing.

A few trigger warnings, so please check those. Absolutely recommend this book to ANY one and especially medical folks who are like me and hate when things are written incorrectly. You're safe with this one.

Happy Reading Ya'll!

[Tiny Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

📚 ARC READER REVIEW 👨‍⚕️👩‍⚕️:

The story is about Alyssa's (an EMT) and Michael's (a Paramedic) journey getting and being together. It's a medical friends to lovers contemporary romance that truly tugs at your heart strings.

It starts off presenting all the troubles and struggles Alyssa's currently facing and Michael stepping in to be both a shoulder to cry and a dxxk to ride on. (I'm sorry I had to do that! 😅😅) BUT it's TRUE though!!

The book also gives slice of life because Alyssa's situations are as realistic as the author could make them, as well as being heavy on the second chance romance vibes.

While the story plot is good, it missed the mark a few times where it could've been great! There was just way too much happening all at once with not enough time to process and react the way I'd have liked to see the characters react.

Besides that I enjoyed reading it because it really is a smooth, sexy and funny at times book. I love Alyssa's mom, her best friend is so great and I loved how Michael just eased his way into her life from friend to boyfriend like a man should instead of rushing it all.

I say kudos to Ashley for this was a great start to her writing career and I'm excited to see her develop into a bestseller!!

[Kimberly · Rating 4 out of 5]

Stars of Life by Ashley Willows is the first book I’ve read by this author. It’s a love story that takes place during the jobs of first responders. So I will state, ⚠️⚠️Check Trigger Warnings!!⚠️⚠️

This love story is told from the characters of Alyssa and Michael both of them friends. But after an incident occurred with Aly, she finds herself seeking comfort and more in Michael’s arms. But if not careful, they could jeopardize everything they have worked for in their professional careers. What I liked most is the medical cases that were dealt with during the story. I was always a sucker for the T.V show named ER and that was exactly how I felt reading this book. That I was watching an episode of that and it brought back such a nostalgia wave!

The book is very good at showing the pressures and heartbreak that first responders face everyday. And the comfort that is needed following some of these harrowing experiences. I recommend this book if you’re a fan of medical dramas!!! ⚕️🩺

My final review:
4.5 out of 5 stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
5 out of 5 for medical: 🩺🩺🩺🩺🩺

[Naj_ana_reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ok so this is actually my first read of romance with medical background. I work on the medical field so it had never peek my interest to read romance with medical but so far so good. It was very refreshing to read about some of the stressful situations our EMTS have to go through and how dangerous every call can be. I also liked the relationship between Michael and Alyssa through out the story. I got to say the level of maturity Alyssa had when she ended her relationship with Derrick was great. Honestly I don't think I could be as well put together as she was (I'm a very petty person lol). I do wish there was a little more time spent at the end. I feel like it was a little rush for me. Alyssa and Michael needed a little more time at the end when it came to rebuilding what had been broken but that's just me. Thank you Ashley Willow for allowing me to receive this ARC. I enjoyed it a lot. 

[Genevieve Clements · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is going to be rounded up to four stars.
Thank you to the author for sending me an arc of your very first book in exchange for a review.

Our MC Alyssa is going through the motions, married, has a job, working on furthering her career ect. When her husband takes it upon himself to be a complete ass, this doesn't stop her, we love a strong independent woman.
It's an easy weekend read and perfect for those looking to add a medical setting romance to their TBR.
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SPOILERS....
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1. We love Michael, Michael is it!
2. Love Alyssa's strong "I'll do it myself" personality so it was nice to see her vulnerable.
3. There were a few times where I felt Alyssa was a little cold but honestly, working night shifts, shoot I wouldn't have time for people's BS either.

[Raeann Wolfley · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is Alyssa and Michael’s story! Who doesn’t love a medical drama romance? Well I can I say I sure do, especially this one. This story had me hooked in the first pages that I didn’t stop until it was over. The only sad thing was it ended! I fell in love with the character’s that I didn’t want it to end! Alyssa is everything I would want as a best friend and Michael well he is just EVERYTHING! I have a lot of book boyfriend’s and he is definitely added to my list! Can’t wait to read more from this author. Fingers crossed that she might turn this into a series, because I love Alyssa’s friends. Plus then we still get more of them.

[Stacey · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is Ashley Willow's debut book and I was excited that I was given the opportunity to read it! When I heard it was a medical drama/love story I New I had to read it. Ashley knocked it out of the park! I hope there is a second book!

In the story we follow Alyssa (FMC) and Michael (MMC) who are both EMTs. We watch as their friendships changes into something more and Alyssa at first was somewhat in denial about it. Watching their relationship change and evolve kept me wanting more! Heck I still want more from Alyssa and Michael!!

[Breanna Garay · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this as an ARC reader. I really enjoyed this contemporary romance because it included a lot of medical drama. The FMC works in the medical field, so it was a fast paced read that made my heart pound at certain points. I previously worked in the medical field, so it was exciting to read about what she went through with her career as well as her love life. There was some really good tension and spice with her love interest.

[Vannesa Cisneroz · Rating 4 out of 5]

Romance/ Medical book.
ARC reader. I love a good book about romance! Ashley and a Michael and the daily life of EMTs. Ashley is getting out of one relationship and going to school. She finds someone that loves her and takes care of her. Absolutely love their story and like how Ashley is going to school to doesn’t give up because of other things in life ! The support she has from friends and coworkers.

Hoping there will be a second book! Did they follow through with plans?