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The Bachelor Firemen of San Gabriel #0.5
One Fine Fireman
Kirk, aka Thor, one of San Gabriel’s infamous Bachelor Firemen, certainly lives up to his nickname. He’s tall, handsome, and has a chiseled body worthy of any Viking god. But he’d give it all up for one glance from her.
Sweet, shy Maribel has no idea he’s been pining for her. There’s nothing he’d like better than to sweep her off her feet and show her just how exquisite their love could be. But Kirk has a secret and he won’t let anyone get close, least of all the sexiest woman he’s ever met.
Can a feisty little dog and an even feistier little boy help these star-crossed lovers to find the true love they both so richly deserve?
Sweet, shy Maribel has no idea he’s been pining for her. There’s nothing he’d like better than to sweep her off her feet and show her just how exquisite their love could be. But Kirk has a secret and he won’t let anyone get close, least of all the sexiest woman he’s ever met.
Can a feisty little dog and an even feistier little boy help these star-crossed lovers to find the true love they both so richly deserve?
208 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 13, 2012
28 people are currently reading
1176 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer Bernard
88 books1,383 followersJennifer Bernard is a USA Today bestselling author of contemporary romance. Her books have been called “an irresistible reading experience” full of “quick wit and sizzling love scenes.” A graduate of Harvard and former news promo producer, she left big city life in Los Angeles for true love in Alaska, where she now lives with her husband and stepdaughters. She still hasn’t adjusted to the cold, so most often she can be found cuddling with her laptop and a cup of tea. No stranger to book success, she also writes erotic novellas under a naughty secret name that she’s happy to share with the curious.
You can connect with Jennifer online at http://JenniferBernard.net or email her at Jen@JenniferBernard.net.
You can connect with Jennifer online at http://JenniferBernard.net or email her at Jen@JenniferBernard.net.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 119 reviews
June 22, 2016
4.25/5
Sweet. Sweet. Sweet. Soooooooo sweet!
My second read from Jennifer Bernard wasn’t disappointing. It was a very cute short story which brought a big smile to my face while I wasbusy swooning over Kirk reading this. Of course, it was too cheesy, but I love cheese so what can I say? *Grinning like a lunatic*
It was not only the plot that made this book a good read but also the characters, including Hagrid, a super smart dog. I loved both Kirk and Maribel. They are a wonderful match and nothing could make me happier than seeing them finally got their beautiful HEA. The thought of them being together as a family made my heart rejoice.
A sweet read, indeed!
Sweet. Sweet. Sweet. Soooooooo sweet!
My second read from Jennifer Bernard wasn’t disappointing. It was a very cute short story which brought a big smile to my face while I was
It was not only the plot that made this book a good read but also the characters, including Hagrid, a super smart dog. I loved both Kirk and Maribel. They are a wonderful match and nothing could make me happier than seeing them finally got their beautiful HEA. The thought of them being together as a family made my heart rejoice.
A sweet read, indeed!
June 22, 2013
One Fine Fireman is the first book (the prequel, actually) in Jennifer Bernard’s The Bachelor Firemen of San Gabriel series and a sweet, steamy, romantic story!
First, a little background to the series title: Due to an event over 150 years ago, the firefighters assigned to this firehouse are cursed to never find love. The curse surrounds the true (supposedly) story of mail order bride Constancia B. Sidwell and says that one of the first volunteer firemen in the area, Virgil Rush, had been corresponding with Constancia B. Sidwell who was eager to start a new life in the West. Like many women of the time were doing, she hopped on a mail coach to travel across the country to meet her future husband, but before she could reach him, a gang of robbers attacked. The story goes on that she fell in love with the leader of the gang and never thought about poor Virgil again, and Virgil, subjected to the unrelenting teasing of his fellow firefighters, vowed that from that day forward, San Gabriel firefighters would suffer the same rocky road to romance that he did.
Now, that really has nothing to do with the storyline, but it’s a fun “backdrop” to the series, so I wanted to share that with you.
But on to the story itself!
Kirk, nicknamed Thor by his fellow firefighters because of his tall, handsome, Viking god looks, has been pining away for Maribel, the sweet waitress who works at the diner he and the other men of the San Gabriel Firehouse visit. For six years he’s been going there for his coffee, and for six years he’s uttered no more than a handful of words when he's there. Kirk is shy, and besides, Maribel's engaged. He’s moving to Alaska, and anyway, Maribel's engaged. He’s a cancer survivor who knows there’s always a risk of reoccurrence and doesn’t want to burden anyone with that, so he’s mostly stayed clear of relationships, but there’s something so special about Maribel that he just can’t keep from developing feelings for her. But… (dammit!)she’s engaged!
Maribel loves it when the men of the San Gabriel Firehouse stop in for coffee, especially the good looking blond, Kirk. He’s incredibly sweet and he always purchases her handmade ornaments and other goodies. She can't help but be attracted to him, but she knows it can't go anywhere because she's engaged. Not that she'd ever think of cheating on her fiancee Duncan! They've been engaged for years and she's sure he's finally ready to set a date... but Kirk is... out of her league. And besides, she's engaged!
But when a precocious little boy and an adorable stray dog bring she and Kirk together, sparks fly and Mirabel starts to wonder why she's never felt for Duncan the things she's feeling for the sexy fireman. And Kirk... well Kirk isn't about to let this chance for a life with the woman he's loved from afar pass him up.
As I said before, this is a sweet, entertaining read. I enjoyed the story, the romance, the characters, and even the small glimpses we're given into the other firefighters. It's a quick, feel good story that left me with a smile on my face and looking forward to reading more in this series, soon!
3.5/5 stars
My thanks to Edelweiss and Avon Books for providing me with a copy of this story! It was a pleasure!
October 24, 2012
A very short and enjoyable read. I loved Thor and Maribel together.
Thor has been secretly in love with Maribel and couldn't act upon it since she was already engaged to someone else. So he just kept his feelings to himself and lusting after her from afar. It was very sweet how he kept going for coffee at the diner where she worked just to see her even though there was a Starbuck just across the street from his firehouse.
Just when Thor was about to give up on her, things changed when Maribel's nine year old son started befriending him. This was a sweet short story with a bit of fire fighting action thrown in.
And this book also tells us about Stan the fire house dog.
Thor has been secretly in love with Maribel and couldn't act upon it since she was already engaged to someone else. So he just kept his feelings to himself and lusting after her from afar. It was very sweet how he kept going for coffee at the diner where she worked just to see her even though there was a Starbuck just across the street from his firehouse.
Just when Thor was about to give up on her, things changed when Maribel's nine year old son started befriending him. This was a sweet short story with a bit of fire fighting action thrown in.
And this book also tells us about Stan the fire house dog.
March 7, 2014
Excellent setup for the Bachelor Firemen series. Maribel is a waitress at the diner where the firemen often stop for coffee. She is the single mother of a nine year old boy and has been in a long distance relationship with a celebrity photographer for six years. That doesn't stop her from noticing Kirk whenever he comes into the diner. She finds him incredibly sexy and also very sweet.
Kirk has had it bad for Maribel for years. The problem is that he gets so tongue tied around her that he hasn't been able to let her know he's interested. Besides, she engaged. Plus, he's recovering from a bout of skin cancer that could come back at any time. Because of it, he's planning to move to Alaska, where the climate would be safer for him. He doesn't want anyone worrying about him.
Maribel's son Pete hates her fiance. He can see that the man has no interest in anything but his own interests. He's a smart kid with a great imagination. When he finds an abandoned dog he befriends it, even though it means sneaking off against his mother's wishes. Taking care of the dog puts him in the path of Kirk, who befriends him. The two of them hit it off, which gets Kirk a chance to see Maribel away from the diner and his fellow firemen.
Suddenly Maribel is getting exposure to a whole different kind of man than her fiance. Kirk's kindness to her and connection to her son opens her eyes to just what a selfish jerk her fiance is. Maribel also feels things for Kirk that she never experienced with Duncan. Once she has ended her engagement the romance between her and Kirk really takes off, though she worries about it being too fast.
I loved the ending and seeing Maribel discover just how much Kirk cares for her and Pete. She sees the way he puts everyone else before his own needs which makes her care for him even more. She really stuns him with her demonstration of just how much she and Pete love him.
I loved the big part that the little dog played in the story. Pete's finding the dog gave him something to care for. He also brought Kirk and Maribel together as they tried to find a way to give Pete time with the pooch and yet keep him safe. Having the background of the dog slowly revealed made him just as real as the human characters. I loved the solution they came up with for the pup's future!
Kirk has had it bad for Maribel for years. The problem is that he gets so tongue tied around her that he hasn't been able to let her know he's interested. Besides, she engaged. Plus, he's recovering from a bout of skin cancer that could come back at any time. Because of it, he's planning to move to Alaska, where the climate would be safer for him. He doesn't want anyone worrying about him.
Maribel's son Pete hates her fiance. He can see that the man has no interest in anything but his own interests. He's a smart kid with a great imagination. When he finds an abandoned dog he befriends it, even though it means sneaking off against his mother's wishes. Taking care of the dog puts him in the path of Kirk, who befriends him. The two of them hit it off, which gets Kirk a chance to see Maribel away from the diner and his fellow firemen.
Suddenly Maribel is getting exposure to a whole different kind of man than her fiance. Kirk's kindness to her and connection to her son opens her eyes to just what a selfish jerk her fiance is. Maribel also feels things for Kirk that she never experienced with Duncan. Once she has ended her engagement the romance between her and Kirk really takes off, though she worries about it being too fast.
I loved the ending and seeing Maribel discover just how much Kirk cares for her and Pete. She sees the way he puts everyone else before his own needs which makes her care for him even more. She really stuns him with her demonstration of just how much she and Pete love him.
I loved the big part that the little dog played in the story. Pete's finding the dog gave him something to care for. He also brought Kirk and Maribel together as they tried to find a way to give Pete time with the pooch and yet keep him safe. Having the background of the dog slowly revealed made him just as real as the human characters. I loved the solution they came up with for the pup's future!
July 25, 2013
Loved this sweet story...just what I needed!
I was not sure about this novella...infidelity is not my thing and this was the second book this week that the heroine is/was with another man. Maribel has been in a six year relationship with a Narcissistic photographer named Duncan. While he lives in NYNY and she lives in San Gabriel, SoCal, the two have a Skyping long distance romance. Mari is his haven, who sits in reverence to his creative magic and caters to his every whim.
Kirk, aka Thor...ahhhh Thor, what a name! His record conversation to Mari was 17 words in total and that was months ago. After being away, Kirk thought his infatuation with Mari would subside, but just the opposite...he wants her even more. While preparing his life to move to Alaska, Kirk meets Maribel's son, Pete.
Pete was quite the character...he and Kirk hit it off like a house on fire! And the fireman, he loved spending time with Pete, listening to his stories, showing him how to fix engines. All the things a great step-dad would do. That in mind, Mari tries to force Duncan to spend time with Pete and have them bond...but with a pesky dog distracting Pete, soft sweet kisses confusing Mari's mind and constant texts stealing Duncan's focus...I was rooting for Kirk to speak up for what he wants and what Maribel and Pete need.
I loved this sweet little story so much that the moment I finished reading it I hit iBooks and bought books 1 and 2! I finished The Fireman Who Loved Me this morning...sweet, sexy and super! Check out this series of hawt firemen and sit back and enjoy!
I was not sure about this novella...infidelity is not my thing and this was the second book this week that the heroine is/was with another man. Maribel has been in a six year relationship with a Narcissistic photographer named Duncan. While he lives in NYNY and she lives in San Gabriel, SoCal, the two have a Skyping long distance romance. Mari is his haven, who sits in reverence to his creative magic and caters to his every whim.
Kirk, aka Thor...ahhhh Thor, what a name! His record conversation to Mari was 17 words in total and that was months ago. After being away, Kirk thought his infatuation with Mari would subside, but just the opposite...he wants her even more. While preparing his life to move to Alaska, Kirk meets Maribel's son, Pete.
Pete was quite the character...he and Kirk hit it off like a house on fire! And the fireman, he loved spending time with Pete, listening to his stories, showing him how to fix engines. All the things a great step-dad would do. That in mind, Mari tries to force Duncan to spend time with Pete and have them bond...but with a pesky dog distracting Pete, soft sweet kisses confusing Mari's mind and constant texts stealing Duncan's focus...I was rooting for Kirk to speak up for what he wants and what Maribel and Pete need.
I loved this sweet little story so much that the moment I finished reading it I hit iBooks and bought books 1 and 2! I finished The Fireman Who Loved Me this morning...sweet, sexy and super! Check out this series of hawt firemen and sit back and enjoy!
December 4, 2012
So before I start this review I guess I'd better make a confession - the main reason I wanted to read this book was the cover. I mean come on - the picture is of a half naked, extremely hot fireman and he's holding a puppy! - what's not to love about that? My love of a sexy cover has got me in trouble quite a few times in the past though when the contents of the book don't manage to live up to my expectations so I'm very happy to say that isn't the case with this one. Even the book title fits perfectly because I can tell you right now that Kirk is One Fine Fireman! This was my introduction to Jennifer Bernard's writing and I can tell you now I'm already hooked on this series, in fact I'm planning on starting the next book, The Fireman who Loved me, as soon as I finish writing this review.
Fireman Kirk (known as Thor to his colleagues thanks to his Viking like good looks) has had a crush on waitress Maribel for years. His crush is well known about by the other firemen, in fact his attraction to her is the only reason they visit the coffee shop where she works, but they tease him mercilessly because he has never had the courage to act on his attraction towards her. Maribel has always found herself drawn to Kirk but shyness and the small matter of her engagement to another man has stopped her from ever doing anything about it. It wasn't until Kirk's absence from the shop for the last few months that she realised just how much she looked forward to his visits though. Kirk had his reasons for staying away from the coffee shop, and even now he is preparing to move across the country and knows there is no chance of anything happening between him and Maribel but thanks to a young boy, an abandoned dog and an arson attack the pair find themselves spending more time together than ever before. Can they both put their shyness and reservations to one side for long enough to realise how perfect they are for each other?
I thoroughly enjoyed One Fine Fireman, considering this is a novella Jennifer Bernard did a brilliant job of creating three dimensional characters that I cared about and wanted to see have their happy ending. Both Kirk and Maribel have their vulnerabilities but at the same time they are fighters, they have been through tough times but come out stronger on the other side and they both have a lot of love to offer. I found it absolutely hilarious the way they both got so shy and tongue tied around each other, their stuttered and stilted conversations were extremely cute and had me laughing out loud numerous times. Add in Maribel's adorable nine year old son Pete and Hagrid the dog and I just couldn't put the story down.
This was a great introduction to the series, I loved what I saw of the rest of the firemen and I'm excited that the next two books are already available and even better they're both full length novels. If the author can make me love a novella this much then I have extremely high hopes for a longer story! If you're looking for a romance that is sweet, funny but also very steamy then this is a great place to start and I can't recommend One Fine Fireman highly enough.
Fireman Kirk (known as Thor to his colleagues thanks to his Viking like good looks) has had a crush on waitress Maribel for years. His crush is well known about by the other firemen, in fact his attraction to her is the only reason they visit the coffee shop where she works, but they tease him mercilessly because he has never had the courage to act on his attraction towards her. Maribel has always found herself drawn to Kirk but shyness and the small matter of her engagement to another man has stopped her from ever doing anything about it. It wasn't until Kirk's absence from the shop for the last few months that she realised just how much she looked forward to his visits though. Kirk had his reasons for staying away from the coffee shop, and even now he is preparing to move across the country and knows there is no chance of anything happening between him and Maribel but thanks to a young boy, an abandoned dog and an arson attack the pair find themselves spending more time together than ever before. Can they both put their shyness and reservations to one side for long enough to realise how perfect they are for each other?
I thoroughly enjoyed One Fine Fireman, considering this is a novella Jennifer Bernard did a brilliant job of creating three dimensional characters that I cared about and wanted to see have their happy ending. Both Kirk and Maribel have their vulnerabilities but at the same time they are fighters, they have been through tough times but come out stronger on the other side and they both have a lot of love to offer. I found it absolutely hilarious the way they both got so shy and tongue tied around each other, their stuttered and stilted conversations were extremely cute and had me laughing out loud numerous times. Add in Maribel's adorable nine year old son Pete and Hagrid the dog and I just couldn't put the story down.
This was a great introduction to the series, I loved what I saw of the rest of the firemen and I'm excited that the next two books are already available and even better they're both full length novels. If the author can make me love a novella this much then I have extremely high hopes for a longer story! If you're looking for a romance that is sweet, funny but also very steamy then this is a great place to start and I can't recommend One Fine Fireman highly enough.
November 14, 2012
Actually 4 and a half stars! My reason for less than 5 stars - it wasn't long enough, I wanted more.
I love the Bachelor Firemen of San Gabriel but it's very possible that none of them will touch me quite as wonderfully as Thor aka Kirk. It's a boy and a stray dog that help this shy hero find his voice and his confidence.
Jennifer Bernard creates the most delectable firemen ever but in ONE FINE FIREMAN, we get to know the one that looks like a viking god, hence the nickname Thor. Kirk may look like a warrior but he has a gentler, deeply caring side that will have you swooning with such intensity that you find yourself wishing this novella was a full-length novel or perhaps a trilogy.
ONE FINE FIREMAN by Jennifer Bernard is a touching and endearing novella - the prequel to the San Gabriel series and our introduction to Stan the firehouse dog. A wonderful introduction to a delightfully romantic series if you've not already met the Bachelor Firemen of San Gabriel and a wonderful backstory for those of us who have already been introduced to the sexiest men to wield a fire hose. If you believe in fate. If you believe in 'meant to be together'. If you believe in happily-ever-afters then ONE FINE FIREMAN by Jennifer Bernard is definitely for you.
***eARC provided by publisher via Edelweiss in exchange for an honest and unscripted review.
I love the Bachelor Firemen of San Gabriel but it's very possible that none of them will touch me quite as wonderfully as Thor aka Kirk. It's a boy and a stray dog that help this shy hero find his voice and his confidence.
Jennifer Bernard creates the most delectable firemen ever but in ONE FINE FIREMAN, we get to know the one that looks like a viking god, hence the nickname Thor. Kirk may look like a warrior but he has a gentler, deeply caring side that will have you swooning with such intensity that you find yourself wishing this novella was a full-length novel or perhaps a trilogy.
ONE FINE FIREMAN by Jennifer Bernard is a touching and endearing novella - the prequel to the San Gabriel series and our introduction to Stan the firehouse dog. A wonderful introduction to a delightfully romantic series if you've not already met the Bachelor Firemen of San Gabriel and a wonderful backstory for those of us who have already been introduced to the sexiest men to wield a fire hose. If you believe in fate. If you believe in 'meant to be together'. If you believe in happily-ever-afters then ONE FINE FIREMAN by Jennifer Bernard is definitely for you.
***eARC provided by publisher via Edelweiss in exchange for an honest and unscripted review.
May 2, 2014
Short and sweet novella introducing us to a cast of firemen, a curse and a quirky Rescue Dog.
November 23, 2012
One fine Fireman is the adorable prequel novella to the Bachelor Firemen series, we are introduced to the bachelor curse on the San Gabriel station 1 firehouse and the men who work there.
Kirk a sexy firefighter from station house 1 can't seem to speak more than a couple words to Maribel when the firefighters come into the cafe she works at, he is just tongue tied. Kirk wants to tell Maribel he has been crushing on her, he want to ask her out on a date however Maribel is engaged and Kirk isn't going to be poaching another mans girl.
Maribel thinks that Kirk is the hottest of the firemen from station 1 that comes in. She watches for him to come in everyday, remembers how he takes his coffee and what kind of muffins they take back to the fire station. She has been engaged for 6 years now and they have never set a date, will she finally take the leap and marry her long time fiance or will she finally let Kirk know she finds him attractive.
Kirk and Maribel must make a move soon as time is running out.
Hot firemen, single mom, cute little boys, puppies and a celebrity photographer all mix to make this a sexy, funny and touching story. The story line is established by setting the stage that the characters have been in place and doing the same things and that things have been that way for a while. Actions must happen before a dead line is the form the catalyst takes to inspire action in both Kirk and Maribel's case. The plot is well played and the characters seem to stay true to themselves. I found the novella delightful and a fun, quick read. It certainly sets up the characters and the fire station for the novels that come after and gets you ready for more. With a few steamy scenes it a spicy read but not anything erotic.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review
Kirk a sexy firefighter from station house 1 can't seem to speak more than a couple words to Maribel when the firefighters come into the cafe she works at, he is just tongue tied. Kirk wants to tell Maribel he has been crushing on her, he want to ask her out on a date however Maribel is engaged and Kirk isn't going to be poaching another mans girl.
Maribel thinks that Kirk is the hottest of the firemen from station 1 that comes in. She watches for him to come in everyday, remembers how he takes his coffee and what kind of muffins they take back to the fire station. She has been engaged for 6 years now and they have never set a date, will she finally take the leap and marry her long time fiance or will she finally let Kirk know she finds him attractive.
Kirk and Maribel must make a move soon as time is running out.
Hot firemen, single mom, cute little boys, puppies and a celebrity photographer all mix to make this a sexy, funny and touching story. The story line is established by setting the stage that the characters have been in place and doing the same things and that things have been that way for a while. Actions must happen before a dead line is the form the catalyst takes to inspire action in both Kirk and Maribel's case. The plot is well played and the characters seem to stay true to themselves. I found the novella delightful and a fun, quick read. It certainly sets up the characters and the fire station for the novels that come after and gets you ready for more. With a few steamy scenes it a spicy read but not anything erotic.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review
November 11, 2012
This is a prequel novella to a series called the Bachelor Firemen. I have never read the series, so this review is based on just reading the novella by itself. According to the novella, the men at this firehouse are all cursed with bachelorhood while they are part of the station. For years, Kirk has pined over a waitress at a local coffee shop but has never spoken more then 13 words to her in total during any one encounter. He gets totally tongue tied and normally can't even say more then "coffee, black" to her. On the flip side, Maribel (the waitress) is shy as well and to make matters worse, is also engaged to a man she has had a long distance relationship with for 6 years although they have yet to pin down a date for the wedding. She is totally committed to the relationship but everyone she knows is against it, including her 9 year old son. When Kirk decides he needs to make some drastic changes in his life, fate decides he will get one last chance with Maribel, whether in friendship or more.
I really enjoyed this quick little novella even though I didn't know any of the main series storyline. The author does a great job in making this story all it's own without having to explain much about the Bachelor Firemen. I did honestly love Kirk's character! It's wonderful seeing the roles of a classic romance reversed with the man being standoffish and shy rather then the classic alpha male. Also for fans of the series, there's some wonderful scenes between the firemen and I'm guessing this novella tells the origins of Stan as well.
All in all, if you're looking for a quick contemporary romance read that has a lot of heart or you're a fan of the series, I think you'll enjoy this novella.
I really enjoyed this quick little novella even though I didn't know any of the main series storyline. The author does a great job in making this story all it's own without having to explain much about the Bachelor Firemen. I did honestly love Kirk's character! It's wonderful seeing the roles of a classic romance reversed with the man being standoffish and shy rather then the classic alpha male. Also for fans of the series, there's some wonderful scenes between the firemen and I'm guessing this novella tells the origins of Stan as well.
All in all, if you're looking for a quick contemporary romance read that has a lot of heart or you're a fan of the series, I think you'll enjoy this novella.
November 16, 2012
This short story is a great addition to a fun sexy series. Ms. Bernard has a natural and beautiful writing style that allows you to feel the emotion of each and every scene.
Kirk and Maribel get a chance to explore their feelings for each other and find a way to claim their happiness. There are obstacles on both sides that are standing in the way, but it’s a heartening journey to follow them through.
One thing I really loved about this book was that is showed Kirk as more than a sexy, hot fireman. Of course that is what everyone (including me) wants to read about in these types of romance stories, and he was all that, but he is also just a regular guy that is susceptible to real life problems. With the addition of the cancer plot, it brought on a whole new layer of emotion and really made this original and believable.
Entire review posted here: http://www.guiltypleasuresbookreviews...
Kirk and Maribel get a chance to explore their feelings for each other and find a way to claim their happiness. There are obstacles on both sides that are standing in the way, but it’s a heartening journey to follow them through.
One thing I really loved about this book was that is showed Kirk as more than a sexy, hot fireman. Of course that is what everyone (including me) wants to read about in these types of romance stories, and he was all that, but he is also just a regular guy that is susceptible to real life problems. With the addition of the cancer plot, it brought on a whole new layer of emotion and really made this original and believable.
Entire review posted here: http://www.guiltypleasuresbookreviews...
April 17, 2014
3.5 Stars!! This is my first book by author Jennifer Bernard, but definitely a short, sweet start to the The Bachelor Fireman of San Gabriel series. As a prequel, One Fine Fireman is just a introductory book for the series and gives a little background on The Curse of San Gabriel, as well as a brief look at a few of our main characters.
Summary:
Maribel Boone has big dreams. A single mother at a young age, Maribel wants only the best for her nine year old son and to be able to give more time to her artistic pursuits. She's shy and sweet, and can't seem to help herself from turning into a pink-tinged klutz when the bachelor fireman of San Gabriel come in for libations, and especially when Kirk, a.k.a. Thor, is in attendance. Maribel has had a screaming crush on Kirk since he started coming into the diner where she works, but never let herself even imagine the possibility of them together. Kirk lives up to his Viking god name with his tall, chiseled body and fierce bravery. What Maribel doesn't know is Kirk has wanted her for a long time, and can barely speak to her face to face due to his intense feelings. He would like nothing more than to sweep the sweet artist and mother off her feet and giver her the world. Unfortunately, it's not only the San Gabriel Curse hanging over them, but also Maribel's six year relationship/engagement to Duncan and Kirk's life-changing secret and subsequent plans for his future. Luckily, an imaginative little boy and fiercely protective dog will do all they can to throw Kirk and Maribel together. Will these two unlucky-in-love sweethearts find the deep and true love they've always wanted or will curses, location, and potential husbands continue to drive them apart?
I had mixed feelings about Maribel. I really liked her personality and her shyness, but at the same time her aggressiveness with Kirk. I didn't like her massive confusion over Duncan, and the fact it took six years for her to see the light. That seems a bit long for me. I adored Kirk. Everything about him. He was sweet, strong, vulnerable, shy in his own way, and honorable. His whole personality was endearing. I only wish I got more of them, and maybe an epilogue since it seems they moved away from the San Gabriel clan. I'm looking forward to reading more about the fireman of San Gabriel and other Jennifer Bernard books. <3
Summary:
Maribel Boone has big dreams. A single mother at a young age, Maribel wants only the best for her nine year old son and to be able to give more time to her artistic pursuits. She's shy and sweet, and can't seem to help herself from turning into a pink-tinged klutz when the bachelor fireman of San Gabriel come in for libations, and especially when Kirk, a.k.a. Thor, is in attendance. Maribel has had a screaming crush on Kirk since he started coming into the diner where she works, but never let herself even imagine the possibility of them together. Kirk lives up to his Viking god name with his tall, chiseled body and fierce bravery. What Maribel doesn't know is Kirk has wanted her for a long time, and can barely speak to her face to face due to his intense feelings. He would like nothing more than to sweep the sweet artist and mother off her feet and giver her the world. Unfortunately, it's not only the San Gabriel Curse hanging over them, but also Maribel's six year relationship/engagement to Duncan and Kirk's life-changing secret and subsequent plans for his future. Luckily, an imaginative little boy and fiercely protective dog will do all they can to throw Kirk and Maribel together. Will these two unlucky-in-love sweethearts find the deep and true love they've always wanted or will curses, location, and potential husbands continue to drive them apart?
I had mixed feelings about Maribel. I really liked her personality and her shyness, but at the same time her aggressiveness with Kirk. I didn't like her massive confusion over Duncan, and the fact it took six years for her to see the light. That seems a bit long for me. I adored Kirk. Everything about him. He was sweet, strong, vulnerable, shy in his own way, and honorable. His whole personality was endearing. I only wish I got more of them, and maybe an epilogue since it seems they moved away from the San Gabriel clan. I'm looking forward to reading more about the fireman of San Gabriel and other Jennifer Bernard books. <3
July 20, 2016
It was great.
Kirk is actually really sweet. Maribel has a son and she was actually engaged but she was trying to convince herself to stay with that guy although she always has had a connection with the H.
What I didn't like:
Safety gang:
HFN/HEA:
Kirk is actually really sweet. Maribel has a son and she was actually engaged but she was trying to convince herself to stay with that guy although she always has had a connection with the H.
What I didn't like:
Safety gang:
HFN/HEA:
February 5, 2013
3.5 stars
One Fine Fireman is the first book from the series The Bachelor Firemen of San Gabriel series and i liked it.
Kirk, aka Thor, one of San Gabriel’s infamous Bachelor Firemen, loves Maribel for 6 years but he never had the courage to say nothing to her in special cause she is engaged with a top notch photographer but around her he can't say more than 10 words.
Maribel works as waitress at the cafe from the town Lazy Daisy, has a 11 year old son Pete, and is engaged with Duncan a famous photographer which she meet at a gallery opening and she thinks it's the best thing to do for her son to marry Duncan opening new doors for him by moving to New York.
I liked the first half of the book and how the story was developing in special making Kirk so shy when he was a good looking guy with a body who looked ready to eat and lick all over and that Mariel liked Kirk but she was thinking at her son first to do what's best for him in special after his father left her when he find out she is pregnant.
In the second part of the book i felt that the story moved to fast and to quick for my liking, to much action in to less pages. Her son Pete rebelling against her wedding with Duncan and his friendship with Kirk, finding out that Kirk had cancer, her break up with Duncan and the cherry from the cake is that he moves to Alaska to protect himself against the cancer to come back.
Overall a quick light read and enjoyable.
One Fine Fireman is the first book from the series The Bachelor Firemen of San Gabriel series and i liked it.
Kirk, aka Thor, one of San Gabriel’s infamous Bachelor Firemen, loves Maribel for 6 years but he never had the courage to say nothing to her in special cause she is engaged with a top notch photographer but around her he can't say more than 10 words.
Maribel works as waitress at the cafe from the town Lazy Daisy, has a 11 year old son Pete, and is engaged with Duncan a famous photographer which she meet at a gallery opening and she thinks it's the best thing to do for her son to marry Duncan opening new doors for him by moving to New York.
I liked the first half of the book and how the story was developing in special making Kirk so shy when he was a good looking guy with a body who looked ready to eat and lick all over and that Mariel liked Kirk but she was thinking at her son first to do what's best for him in special after his father left her when he find out she is pregnant.
In the second part of the book i felt that the story moved to fast and to quick for my liking, to much action in to less pages. Her son Pete rebelling against her wedding with Duncan and his friendship with Kirk, finding out that Kirk had cancer, her break up with Duncan and the cherry from the cake is that he moves to Alaska to protect himself against the cancer to come back.
Overall a quick light read and enjoyable.
October 24, 2012
Introduction novella about Kirk "Thor" and Maribel, a waitress from the Lazy Daisy.
Loved the references to Adventures in Babysitting, one of my favorite movies as a kid.
Chance to see where Stan, our adorable fire pup came from!!
Loved the references to Adventures in Babysitting, one of my favorite movies as a kid.
Chance to see where Stan, our adorable fire pup came from!!
August 2, 2017
I wouldn't say it was terrible; it was just meh.
Maybe I'll write a review? Who knows at this point.
Maybe I'll write a review? Who knows at this point.
November 12, 2012
Kirk nicknamed "Thor" (for his resemblance to the God), returns to the San Gabriel Fire Department after a bout with skin cancer. His plans are to finish up his duties and relocate to another area where the sun isn’t so hot and dangerous for his skin.
Maribel works as a waitress at the Lazy Daisy, an establishment frequented by the scorchingly HOT Bachelor Fireman. Maribel is shy and has secretly had a crush on Kirk for years, not knowing that he had the same feelings toward her. With some help from her son and an abandoned dog the two of them find there is enough heat between them to cause a five-alarm fire. Many obstacles stand in their way, namely Kirk’s plans to move, Maribel’s engagement, will they overcome all obstacles to find real love?
One Fine Fireman is the prequel to Jennifer Bernard’s Bachelor Fireman series. She packs a lot into the short format! It has wonderful chemistry, lots of steam and is full of action! I had the pleasure of reading this first and have since bought the other two books in the series and proceeded to finish them both off in just two days! Let's just say if you plan to read these keep a large glass of ice water handy!
This novella will go on sale on December 4th, but is available for Pre-order for the STEAL price of $1.99 for Kindle and Nook and in paperback for $3.79 at BN.com and $3.99 at Amazon.com
If you can’t wait until December 4th,the first two books in the Bachelor Fireman series are currently available on Amazon & BN.com:
The Fireman Who Loved Me: A Bachelor Fireman Novel #1
Kindle Edition: $4.74
Nook Edition: $4.99
Paperback: $5.99
(The Story of Captain Harry Brody and News Producer Melissa McGuire)
Hot for Fireman: A Bachelor Fireman Novel #2
Kindle Edition: $4.74
Nook Edition: $4.99
Paperback: $5.99
(The Story of Katie Dane and Firefighter/Bartender Ryan Blake)
I was given access to this eARC for review purposes, as always all opinions expressed here are my own!
Maribel works as a waitress at the Lazy Daisy, an establishment frequented by the scorchingly HOT Bachelor Fireman. Maribel is shy and has secretly had a crush on Kirk for years, not knowing that he had the same feelings toward her. With some help from her son and an abandoned dog the two of them find there is enough heat between them to cause a five-alarm fire. Many obstacles stand in their way, namely Kirk’s plans to move, Maribel’s engagement, will they overcome all obstacles to find real love?
One Fine Fireman is the prequel to Jennifer Bernard’s Bachelor Fireman series. She packs a lot into the short format! It has wonderful chemistry, lots of steam and is full of action! I had the pleasure of reading this first and have since bought the other two books in the series and proceeded to finish them both off in just two days! Let's just say if you plan to read these keep a large glass of ice water handy!
This novella will go on sale on December 4th, but is available for Pre-order for the STEAL price of $1.99 for Kindle and Nook and in paperback for $3.79 at BN.com and $3.99 at Amazon.com
If you can’t wait until December 4th,the first two books in the Bachelor Fireman series are currently available on Amazon & BN.com:
The Fireman Who Loved Me: A Bachelor Fireman Novel #1
Kindle Edition: $4.74
Nook Edition: $4.99
Paperback: $5.99
(The Story of Captain Harry Brody and News Producer Melissa McGuire)
Hot for Fireman: A Bachelor Fireman Novel #2
Kindle Edition: $4.74
Nook Edition: $4.99
Paperback: $5.99
(The Story of Katie Dane and Firefighter/Bartender Ryan Blake)
I was given access to this eARC for review purposes, as always all opinions expressed here are my own!
Read
November 15, 2012Rhayne's review posted on Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews
4 Stars
This sweet heartwarming story makes another great addition to The Bachelor Fireman of San Gabriel series. The characters were scorching together and the natural spark and chemistry they shared just helped to ignite the book.
For being such a short story the writing flowed well and the story was complete. I didn’t feel as though anything was left out. I love Ms. Bernard’s writing style. She has this very natural style that allows you to feel the emotion of each and every scene.
Kirk and Maribel get a chance to explore their feelings for each other and find a way to claim their happiness. There are obstacles on both sides that are standing in the way, but it’s a heartening journey to follow them through.
One thing I really loved about this book was that is showed Kirk as more than a sexy, hot fireman. Of course that is what everyone (including me) wants to read about in these types of romance stories, and he was all that, but he is also just a regular guy that is susceptible to real life problems. With the addition of the cancer plot, it brought on a whole new layer of emotion and really made this original and believable.
Along with the beautifully written love story, we get an adorable spunky nine year old boy and one incredible dog that plays a big role in everyone’s life. When all of these elements are mixed together it’s a guaranteed winner.
Review copy provided for an honest review.
4 Stars
This sweet heartwarming story makes another great addition to The Bachelor Fireman of San Gabriel series. The characters were scorching together and the natural spark and chemistry they shared just helped to ignite the book.
For being such a short story the writing flowed well and the story was complete. I didn’t feel as though anything was left out. I love Ms. Bernard’s writing style. She has this very natural style that allows you to feel the emotion of each and every scene.
Kirk and Maribel get a chance to explore their feelings for each other and find a way to claim their happiness. There are obstacles on both sides that are standing in the way, but it’s a heartening journey to follow them through.
One thing I really loved about this book was that is showed Kirk as more than a sexy, hot fireman. Of course that is what everyone (including me) wants to read about in these types of romance stories, and he was all that, but he is also just a regular guy that is susceptible to real life problems. With the addition of the cancer plot, it brought on a whole new layer of emotion and really made this original and believable.
Along with the beautifully written love story, we get an adorable spunky nine year old boy and one incredible dog that plays a big role in everyone’s life. When all of these elements are mixed together it’s a guaranteed winner.
Review copy provided for an honest review.
November 16, 2012
The Deal: Waitress Maribel would much rather be taking photographs and making art than serving coffee all day, but at least her job has a few perks: like like seeing the bachelor firemen of San Gabriel on a regular basis, even if some are more talkative than others.
Kirk - aka Thor- is one of the quiet Firemen, but not because he's particularly shy but because he has had a crush on Maribel for years, but he knows she's engaged to someone else (some ritzy celebrity photographer that shows up every once in a while), so he resigns himself to looking from afar.
Things seem to be locked in a stalemate until Maribel's son finds a puppy wandering around, and Kirk is there to help and they start to spend more time together.
My Thoughts: One Fine Fireman is a sort of introductory novella to the Bachelor Firemen series and it was a cute, short read. Maribel indulged in willful blindness from time to time, but Kirk was a nice guy and it was fun to see them together. And Maribel's kid was childlike and not too annoying.
There was a puppy and the puppy was awesome and you got to meet a few other of the firemen that feature in the other books of the series. There were a few things that were rather hard to believe, but the story wouldn't work otherwise so I'm overlooking that.
All in all it was a nice way to pass time.
Kirk - aka Thor- is one of the quiet Firemen, but not because he's particularly shy but because he has had a crush on Maribel for years, but he knows she's engaged to someone else (some ritzy celebrity photographer that shows up every once in a while), so he resigns himself to looking from afar.
Things seem to be locked in a stalemate until Maribel's son finds a puppy wandering around, and Kirk is there to help and they start to spend more time together.
My Thoughts: One Fine Fireman is a sort of introductory novella to the Bachelor Firemen series and it was a cute, short read. Maribel indulged in willful blindness from time to time, but Kirk was a nice guy and it was fun to see them together. And Maribel's kid was childlike and not too annoying.
There was a puppy and the puppy was awesome and you got to meet a few other of the firemen that feature in the other books of the series. There were a few things that were rather hard to believe, but the story wouldn't work otherwise so I'm overlooking that.
All in all it was a nice way to pass time.
November 13, 2012
This was a light and fun read, taking about an hour to read, but it packed a lot of story in a few short pages. It introduces Kirk, a firefighter also known as Thor, and the woman he has been in love with for six years, Maribel. He hasn't mentioned his feelings because Maribel is a single-mother engaged to be married. However, when Maribel's son finds a lost dog, Kirk gets the chance he has been waiting for to finally get the woman of his dreams to notice him.
One Fine Fireman was sort of a prequel novel to the other Bachelor Fireman series and yet it reads almost like a stand alone story. You catch a glimpse of the characters and the connecting story arch from the previous titles, but it is only tantalizing hint. I'm not sure why this particular story didn't come out last spring when the first two did; it would have made more sense.
There were a few little moments that bothered me--like the quickness of Maribel's "love" for Kirk so soon after dumping "Dumb Duncan" or the speed with which Maribel decided to get married and move with Kirk--but these were quickly forgotten with the antics and thoughts of Maribel's son Pete. That Harry Potter lovin' kid was adorable! All in all, a very cute and entertaining read.
One Fine Fireman was sort of a prequel novel to the other Bachelor Fireman series and yet it reads almost like a stand alone story. You catch a glimpse of the characters and the connecting story arch from the previous titles, but it is only tantalizing hint. I'm not sure why this particular story didn't come out last spring when the first two did; it would have made more sense.
There were a few little moments that bothered me--like the quickness of Maribel's "love" for Kirk so soon after dumping "Dumb Duncan" or the speed with which Maribel decided to get married and move with Kirk--but these were quickly forgotten with the antics and thoughts of Maribel's son Pete. That Harry Potter lovin' kid was adorable! All in all, a very cute and entertaining read.
November 16, 2012
One Fine Fireman
As a prequel to the Bachelor Fireman series, this is an interesting little read. It is a tiny bit longer and more complicated than your normal prequel. Luckily, there are two other books out in this series so you can go right from this novella to the full-length novels.
This story is about Kirk “Thor” and the crush he has had on Maribel for what seems like forever. The only problem is that Maribel is shy AND engaged. Fortunately, her engagement is to an absolute idiot.
Maribel has also been crushin’ on Kirk but since she has had bad luck with men and is ENGAGED she has not done anything about it…but she sure wants to.
Kirk has had skin cancer and is preparing to move to Alaska for his health and well being and the one thing he is going to miss is Maribel a budding artist with a son. But soon events involving Maribel’s son, a stray dog and an arson fire will conspire to unite these two ships that keep passing in the night.
The characters are fairly well drawn, the action is there, but for some reason the sexual innuendo seems forced and the actually sex scenes while lovely are not totally smoking.
A worthy read but not an absolute must to keep up with the series. I fine short diversion for a couple of hours on a boring day.
As a prequel to the Bachelor Fireman series, this is an interesting little read. It is a tiny bit longer and more complicated than your normal prequel. Luckily, there are two other books out in this series so you can go right from this novella to the full-length novels.
This story is about Kirk “Thor” and the crush he has had on Maribel for what seems like forever. The only problem is that Maribel is shy AND engaged. Fortunately, her engagement is to an absolute idiot.
Maribel has also been crushin’ on Kirk but since she has had bad luck with men and is ENGAGED she has not done anything about it…but she sure wants to.
Kirk has had skin cancer and is preparing to move to Alaska for his health and well being and the one thing he is going to miss is Maribel a budding artist with a son. But soon events involving Maribel’s son, a stray dog and an arson fire will conspire to unite these two ships that keep passing in the night.
The characters are fairly well drawn, the action is there, but for some reason the sexual innuendo seems forced and the actually sex scenes while lovely are not totally smoking.
A worthy read but not an absolute must to keep up with the series. I fine short diversion for a couple of hours on a boring day.
December 10, 2012
Over the last few months, I’ve read a few novellas which served only to introduce readers to characters from an upcoming book and didn’t really have a complete story. This was the opposite! I really enjoy the author’s voice and loved this short story which is a prequel to the novels in the Hot Firemen series. The purpose of these novellas is to gain readers and for me, it worked. I bought the first two novels! I think fans of Kristen Higgins and Jill Shalvis (like me) will enjoy this series and I highly recommend it.
November 14, 2012
I bought One Fine Fireman for my nook last night and ADORED it! Jennifer Bernard's style is fun, fast paced,and leaves you with a smile on your face long after the book is done. Kirk is a character that has everything; he's shy, sensitive, manly, and most of all sexy. Maribel is a character that you cheer for, especially being a mommy that reads a lot of parenting books :-) Throw in a strong willed boy and a brave little beagle and you have a story filled with warmth and laughter. Can't wait to buy her next one!
January 6, 2016
I loved this one!!! Well I really like all the Bachelor Fireman books, but for some reason this one was stood out for me. Not sure what it was, but I could identify with the characters, both Thor and Maribel. I would have loved this to be a full length novel as the novella's don't give you enough character development. But this one was very well done and Ms. Bernard did a wonderful job of explaining what Maribel and Thor were feeling that you didn't fell like you had to fill in the pieces. So glad I bought this collection of stories, as it was well worth it!!
December 7, 2015
Such a sweet story! Not only between Kirk and Maribel, but also between a boy and his dog. There was just so much innocence in such a steamy book. A perfect blend.
I can't help but mention (again) that these covers and titles are really doing a disservice to this series. This was the 4th book I've read in this series and there hasn't been a bad one yet. I really hope, for the author's sake, she can find a way to get the publisher to change the covers. And that a friend tells her to change the titles.
I can't help but mention (again) that these covers and titles are really doing a disservice to this series. This was the 4th book I've read in this series and there hasn't been a bad one yet. I really hope, for the author's sake, she can find a way to get the publisher to change the covers. And that a friend tells her to change the titles.
March 22, 2014
While billed as a novella, this feels more like a short story. The conflicts are light, and the heroine just isn't that interesting. The here's brush with cancer deserves a bit more plot line, but the boy and his dog are pleasant and, unlike many children in Romances, not annoying or too precious. The egregious cover, though, while entertaining to many bloggers, should never have made it past the editor.
May 30, 2015
It was a good start of the series and if I understood well the first story written by Jennifer Bernard.
I liked it even though is was fast paced and short.
Both characters were sweet and silly (years without talking even though the had a secret crush).
The story is full of great secondary characters that I have a feel will get their HEA in the next books.
I hope the whole series will have a family/ friends feel to it and the San Gabriel Firefighters curse will be lifted.
I liked it even though is was fast paced and short.
Both characters were sweet and silly (years without talking even though the had a secret crush).
The story is full of great secondary characters that I have a feel will get their HEA in the next books.
I hope the whole series will have a family/ friends feel to it and the San Gabriel Firefighters curse will be lifted.
January 17, 2013
Fun novella that got me interested in the rest of the series. It was surprisingly fleshed out for a novella, which I always like to see since it gives the reader a larger glimpse into the world and a better idea of what the full length books are like. Plus, I also love storylines that involve a shy hero, which this one definitely met the bill for. I will definitely be reading this series.
October 30, 2012
This is a wonderful story of not always wanting what you have. I really enjoyed the story and the characters in the book. This story sets up the coming books even though 2 books are out already. When this comes out grab it. You'll be happy for it.
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