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In Flames
Gracelyn Riley married a firefighter. She knew that came with risks. But she never imagined herself widowed in her early thirties with two children to care for on her own.
As a fireman, Matt Riley was at the scene when his brother, Chad, was killed. He suffered greatly from survivor’s guilt and depression after the accident.
The last year has been difficult for both Gracelyn and Matt. They’ve relied on each other to get through the tough times. With the anniversary of Chad’s death upon them, Gracelyn and Matt once again turn to each other for comfort and support. They find it in each other’s arms—and bed.
Will their desire for each other consume them? Can they overcome the guilt and scrutiny to find love again…together?
As a fireman, Matt Riley was at the scene when his brother, Chad, was killed. He suffered greatly from survivor’s guilt and depression after the accident.
The last year has been difficult for both Gracelyn and Matt. They’ve relied on each other to get through the tough times. With the anniversary of Chad’s death upon them, Gracelyn and Matt once again turn to each other for comfort and support. They find it in each other’s arms—and bed.
Will their desire for each other consume them? Can they overcome the guilt and scrutiny to find love again…together?
233 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 24, 2013
1 person is currently reading
245 people want to read
About the author
Jessica Jayne
15 books506 followersJESSICA JAYNE is a born and raised small-town Ohio girl, who moved to the Sunshine State after graduating from college with an English degree. She attended law school and passed her bar exam on the very first attempt. She met the love of her life in a romance novel sort of way. They married and have three beautiful (and sometimes crazy) kids.
Jessica loves to travel and travel often! She’s jumped out of several perfectly good airplanes. When not watching her son isn't racing in a regatta or her daughters dominate the volleyball court, she watches Buckeye football and the Tampa Bay Lightning. She’s a wine-making (and wine-tasting with her girlfriends) aficionado. She loves all music. Thinks Eric Church is a rock star. Worships Jason Momoa. Believes Game of Thrones was the best show on television but lives by many Seinfeld-isms.
Life is always an adventure!
Jessica loves to travel and travel often! She’s jumped out of several perfectly good airplanes. When not watching her son isn't racing in a regatta or her daughters dominate the volleyball court, she watches Buckeye football and the Tampa Bay Lightning. She’s a wine-making (and wine-tasting with her girlfriends) aficionado. She loves all music. Thinks Eric Church is a rock star. Worships Jason Momoa. Believes Game of Thrones was the best show on television but lives by many Seinfeld-isms.
Life is always an adventure!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
January 2, 2019
Reviewed at
Blue Mood Café
One year ago, Matt Riley lost his brother, Chad, to a deadly fire. Both were firefighters and he watched his brother perish. As if that wasn’t bad enough, he had the horrible experience of having to tell his sister-in-law, Gracelyn her husband was gone. Matt made it his mission to support her and the two children during the next year, both sort of propping each other up when he tried to drown his sorrows and she struggled to move forward. Now on the occasion of the one-year anniversary of Chad’s death, their consolation turns to something much, much more.
The idea of a brother taking up with his brother’s wife isn’t a new one but it’s always intriguing and this one lives up to that expectation. Complicating matters is Matt having always been attracted to Gracelyn though he’d never, ever considered crossing that proverbial line. When their passion was unleashed, it was pretty combustible. These two were fearless in their feelings for each other but highly fearful of condemnation from family and colleagues. They had reason to be wary, especially of reactions from Matt’s mother, his ex-wife and their children. I thought this story got all these dynamics right especially if their relationships as aunt and uncle would transition to that of a stepparent. It’s complicated and I liked that these issues were front and center.
I enjoyed this story and felt the narrators captured the personalities of both Matt and Gracelyn. The pacing was great and I was very invested in the story. I wish we had more insight into what happened between Gracelyn and Matt in that past year as it would have made their relationship feel less like something instant. Otherwise, this worked very well for me. There were no easy answers and the resolutions felt realistic. A warning though...the steam level is off the charts!
(I received a complimentary copy from Caffeinated Services in exchange for an unbiased review)
One year ago, Matt Riley lost his brother, Chad, to a deadly fire. Both were firefighters and he watched his brother perish. As if that wasn’t bad enough, he had the horrible experience of having to tell his sister-in-law, Gracelyn her husband was gone. Matt made it his mission to support her and the two children during the next year, both sort of propping each other up when he tried to drown his sorrows and she struggled to move forward. Now on the occasion of the one-year anniversary of Chad’s death, their consolation turns to something much, much more.
The idea of a brother taking up with his brother’s wife isn’t a new one but it’s always intriguing and this one lives up to that expectation. Complicating matters is Matt having always been attracted to Gracelyn though he’d never, ever considered crossing that proverbial line. When their passion was unleashed, it was pretty combustible. These two were fearless in their feelings for each other but highly fearful of condemnation from family and colleagues. They had reason to be wary, especially of reactions from Matt’s mother, his ex-wife and their children. I thought this story got all these dynamics right especially if their relationships as aunt and uncle would transition to that of a stepparent. It’s complicated and I liked that these issues were front and center.
I enjoyed this story and felt the narrators captured the personalities of both Matt and Gracelyn. The pacing was great and I was very invested in the story. I wish we had more insight into what happened between Gracelyn and Matt in that past year as it would have made their relationship feel less like something instant. Otherwise, this worked very well for me. There were no easy answers and the resolutions felt realistic. A warning though...the steam level is off the charts!
(I received a complimentary copy from Caffeinated Services in exchange for an unbiased review)
December 5, 2018
This review can also be found at Carole's Random Life in Books.
I thought that this was really good. I have enjoyed Jessica Jayne's work in the past so I was really excited to get started with this new book. This was a rather short listen that I was able to finish in just a couple of sessions. I ended up having a great time with this satisfying love story.
This romance has a rather unique set up. At the start of the story, we see Gracelynn lose her husband and Matt loses his brother. Gracelyn and Chad's marriage wasn't perfect but there were working on it and they did care about each other. Matt has spent his life in Chad's shadow. After his death, Matt has done everything that he can to help Gracelyn and the children cope with the loss.
On the one year anniversary of Chad's death, things change for Gracelyn and Matt and they realize that their feelings for each other have evolved into something more intense. They know that nobody would accept a relationship between them so they do their best not to let anything serious happen but they can't hide what they feel for each other.
I thought that Gracelyn and Matt were great together. These two had a ton of chemistry and there were quite a few scenes that were full of heat. I like that they have a long history together and that things have evolved over time. Gracelyn knew exactly what she wanted and wasn't afraid to let anyone know. Matt was such a good guy who seemed to really be trying to do what was in everyone's best interest.
I read a lot of romance and it seems to me that a lot of time the big obstacle that the couple needs to overcome really isn't all that big of a deal. This book was different because I really understood the obstacle that Gracelyn and Matt were facing. The steps that they took to keep everyone's feelings in mind while they navigated their new relationship seemed really authentic to me.
I thought that Joe Arden and Samantha Cooke did a great job with this audiobook. I think it was a really good choice to use a dual narrator format for this story and I thought that both of the narrators brought a lot of emotion into the story. I had no problem listening to this book for hours at a time.
I would recommend this romance to others. It was a quick read that felt very authentic and was full of emotions. I wouldn't hesitate to read more from Jessica Jayne in the future.
I received a review copy of this audiobook from the author via Caffeinated Services.
Initial Thoughts
This was good. I wish that we would have seen more of them falling for each other during the year between the death of Gracelyn's husband and the big event. I did see the obstacles that they faced and could understand that others might have a few issues with their being together. There were some pretty hot scenes and some more touching ones. I thought that the narrators did a great job with this story.
I thought that this was really good. I have enjoyed Jessica Jayne's work in the past so I was really excited to get started with this new book. This was a rather short listen that I was able to finish in just a couple of sessions. I ended up having a great time with this satisfying love story.
This romance has a rather unique set up. At the start of the story, we see Gracelynn lose her husband and Matt loses his brother. Gracelyn and Chad's marriage wasn't perfect but there were working on it and they did care about each other. Matt has spent his life in Chad's shadow. After his death, Matt has done everything that he can to help Gracelyn and the children cope with the loss.
On the one year anniversary of Chad's death, things change for Gracelyn and Matt and they realize that their feelings for each other have evolved into something more intense. They know that nobody would accept a relationship between them so they do their best not to let anything serious happen but they can't hide what they feel for each other.
I thought that Gracelyn and Matt were great together. These two had a ton of chemistry and there were quite a few scenes that were full of heat. I like that they have a long history together and that things have evolved over time. Gracelyn knew exactly what she wanted and wasn't afraid to let anyone know. Matt was such a good guy who seemed to really be trying to do what was in everyone's best interest.
I read a lot of romance and it seems to me that a lot of time the big obstacle that the couple needs to overcome really isn't all that big of a deal. This book was different because I really understood the obstacle that Gracelyn and Matt were facing. The steps that they took to keep everyone's feelings in mind while they navigated their new relationship seemed really authentic to me.
I thought that Joe Arden and Samantha Cooke did a great job with this audiobook. I think it was a really good choice to use a dual narrator format for this story and I thought that both of the narrators brought a lot of emotion into the story. I had no problem listening to this book for hours at a time.
I would recommend this romance to others. It was a quick read that felt very authentic and was full of emotions. I wouldn't hesitate to read more from Jessica Jayne in the future.
I received a review copy of this audiobook from the author via Caffeinated Services.
Initial Thoughts
This was good. I wish that we would have seen more of them falling for each other during the year between the death of Gracelyn's husband and the big event. I did see the obstacles that they faced and could understand that others might have a few issues with their being together. There were some pretty hot scenes and some more touching ones. I thought that the narrators did a great job with this story.
July 14, 2013
I was approached by Jessica back in January about reading and reviewing her Book More than Friends and to read her in draft Book of In Flames. I loved More Than Friends, so I knew I was going to love In Flames as well. I received a copy of In Flames while it was in Beta Read form still and While I LOVED this Book, I know how Myself and other readers LOVE an HEA and an Epilogue to go with that HEA. I was so happy When Jessica took my feedback and gave us an Epilogue.
We start the story with Gracelyn who has been a widow for one year now after her firefighter husband Chad died during a fire. Gracelyn has been left to raise her two children herself, and she has had a hard first year . The week before Chad had died Gracelyn had found out he had cheated on her and had asked him to leave , telling him that she needed space to think about everything. A week later he died in a fire. So the heartbreak is a little more intense for her at times, because they had been separated when he had passed away. She has had help from friends and family along the way , but it still has been a stressful, heartbreaking year of everything.
The one constant in her life through the last year has been Chad’s Brother Matt, who was also there when Chad died in the fire. For the last year Gracelyn and Matt have been each other’s shoulder to lean on. They have both helped each other to deal with Chad’s death. Matt has helped her with the kids, and has become very much closer to Gracelyn. Before the one year anniversary of Chad’s death Matt started to have feelings for Gracelyn, but has not acted upon those feelings until now.
Emotions run wild on the one year anniversary of Chad’s death and Matt finds Gracelyn in her bedroom on the floor sleeping, he can tell she had been crying. When she wakes and finds out Matt is there , she starts to cry again, Matt comforts her and one thing leads to another and they are sleeping with each other.
They decide because of everything that it can not happen again. They try really hard to not let things between them go any further, But feelings are not something you can turn off.
“I’ve put out every kind of fire in my job, but I cannot put out
this fire that is burning inside of me for you. What am I going to do with you?”
I do not want to tell you all that happens , I want you to be able to read this and get the full effect of the story for yourself. I will say this you will LOVE Gracelyn and Matt.
I will say this , this is not an easy road for Matt and Gracelyn once they decide to see where their feelings for each other go. There is going to be some surprises, Some angry parents , and an angry ex-wife.
“I told you earlier that I didn’t think I could make love to you again and walk away. And I can’t. More importantly, I won’t. I know some people will be hurt by my wanting to be with you… by us wanting to be together. I know we will have a rocky road with the family for a period of time. I know we will likely be the talk of the town for a while. I didn’t plan this. I did not plan to fall in love with you. But I did! I love you! I love you! And I am not letting you go. Ever.”
There is a HEA and an Awesome Epilogue as well . Jessica did an amazing Job writing this story and I am so glad I had the pleasure of reading it before release and discussing it with her.
Book Blurb:
Gracelyn Riley married a firefighter and she knew that came with some risks. But she never imagined herself widowed in her early thirties with two children to care for on her own. Even though she had asked her husband, Chad, for a trial separation the week before his death because she found out about an affair he was having, dealing with the last year without him has not been easy. Her brother-in-law, Matt, has been the rock that has kept her from collapsing.
As a fireman, Matt Riley had been at the scene when his brother was killed. Several other firefighters had to hold him back to keep him from going after his brother in the collapsing building. The last year has been difficult for Matt. He suffered greatly from survivor’s guilt and drank himself into oblivion on several occasions. His one saving grace has come in the form of his sister-in-law, Gracelyn. Her friendship has pulled him through time and time again.
With the year anniversary of Chad’s death upon them, Gracelyn and Matt turn to each for support and comfort. What they didn’t expect was to realize that their feelings for each other may go well beyond the solid friendship they share. Can they overcome the guilt and the scrutiny of their family and friends to find love together?
We start the story with Gracelyn who has been a widow for one year now after her firefighter husband Chad died during a fire. Gracelyn has been left to raise her two children herself, and she has had a hard first year . The week before Chad had died Gracelyn had found out he had cheated on her and had asked him to leave , telling him that she needed space to think about everything. A week later he died in a fire. So the heartbreak is a little more intense for her at times, because they had been separated when he had passed away. She has had help from friends and family along the way , but it still has been a stressful, heartbreaking year of everything.
The one constant in her life through the last year has been Chad’s Brother Matt, who was also there when Chad died in the fire. For the last year Gracelyn and Matt have been each other’s shoulder to lean on. They have both helped each other to deal with Chad’s death. Matt has helped her with the kids, and has become very much closer to Gracelyn. Before the one year anniversary of Chad’s death Matt started to have feelings for Gracelyn, but has not acted upon those feelings until now.
Emotions run wild on the one year anniversary of Chad’s death and Matt finds Gracelyn in her bedroom on the floor sleeping, he can tell she had been crying. When she wakes and finds out Matt is there , she starts to cry again, Matt comforts her and one thing leads to another and they are sleeping with each other.
They decide because of everything that it can not happen again. They try really hard to not let things between them go any further, But feelings are not something you can turn off.
“I’ve put out every kind of fire in my job, but I cannot put out
this fire that is burning inside of me for you. What am I going to do with you?”
I do not want to tell you all that happens , I want you to be able to read this and get the full effect of the story for yourself. I will say this you will LOVE Gracelyn and Matt.
I will say this , this is not an easy road for Matt and Gracelyn once they decide to see where their feelings for each other go. There is going to be some surprises, Some angry parents , and an angry ex-wife.
“I told you earlier that I didn’t think I could make love to you again and walk away. And I can’t. More importantly, I won’t. I know some people will be hurt by my wanting to be with you… by us wanting to be together. I know we will have a rocky road with the family for a period of time. I know we will likely be the talk of the town for a while. I didn’t plan this. I did not plan to fall in love with you. But I did! I love you! I love you! And I am not letting you go. Ever.”
There is a HEA and an Awesome Epilogue as well . Jessica did an amazing Job writing this story and I am so glad I had the pleasure of reading it before release and discussing it with her.
Book Blurb:
Gracelyn Riley married a firefighter and she knew that came with some risks. But she never imagined herself widowed in her early thirties with two children to care for on her own. Even though she had asked her husband, Chad, for a trial separation the week before his death because she found out about an affair he was having, dealing with the last year without him has not been easy. Her brother-in-law, Matt, has been the rock that has kept her from collapsing.
As a fireman, Matt Riley had been at the scene when his brother was killed. Several other firefighters had to hold him back to keep him from going after his brother in the collapsing building. The last year has been difficult for Matt. He suffered greatly from survivor’s guilt and drank himself into oblivion on several occasions. His one saving grace has come in the form of his sister-in-law, Gracelyn. Her friendship has pulled him through time and time again.
With the year anniversary of Chad’s death upon them, Gracelyn and Matt turn to each for support and comfort. What they didn’t expect was to realize that their feelings for each other may go well beyond the solid friendship they share. Can they overcome the guilt and the scrutiny of their family and friends to find love together?
May 21, 2013
When Gracelyn Riley lost her firefighter husband, she turned to her best friend and his brother firefighter Matt Riley. He was her rock, she was his. After a year Matt is feeling things for Gracelyn that are more than brother-in-law feelings and is certain Gracelyn doesn't share the same feelings, or does she?
When a kiss leads to a passionate encounter, both Gracelyn and Matt are left confused, they both want to explore the spark between them but if they do it will hurt those they care about most. Gracelyn however feels the fog has lifted and she knows what she wants, Matt even if he protests it is not possible.
I thought this was written with deep emotion. You feel for both Matt and Gracelyn and get to read both perspectives, which I thought was important to really get the full impact of what this couple was beginning to build. Highly recommend.
When a kiss leads to a passionate encounter, both Gracelyn and Matt are left confused, they both want to explore the spark between them but if they do it will hurt those they care about most. Gracelyn however feels the fog has lifted and she knows what she wants, Matt even if he protests it is not possible.
I thought this was written with deep emotion. You feel for both Matt and Gracelyn and get to read both perspectives, which I thought was important to really get the full impact of what this couple was beginning to build. Highly recommend.
July 31, 2018
So I have to first start this review by saying I believe this is the first time I have read anything by Mrs. Jayne. And yes I said believe, and I'll explain why at the end of this review. Now I have to say the synopsis of this book is what caught my attention and made me want to read it. I haven't read many firefighter story's lately so I thought it was time to read one again.
Look I felt for both Matt and Gracelyn. They both lost someone who was very close and meant something to them. Obviously Gracelyn lost her husband and Matt lost his brother.
Here's the thing though I never felt the loss from them. I never felt that emotional pull from this book. I think I felt the loss more from Matt than I did Gracelyn. That also might have to do with the fact that this book was mostly in Matt's POV. I never felt the grief from Gracelyn of lossing a husband except for at the beginning.
Look I really really wanted to love this book. But honestly it was just kind of eh, to me. I felt like the prologue pulled me in, and than it just kind of trailed off. And honestly Matt and Gracelyn kind of wigged me out. I mean I'm all for moving on after a loss, but these two just kind of jump into it after a year. I mean yes it was more than obvious Matt had an attraction to Gracelyn, but I wasn't sure about her with him. Also I have no problem with smexiness in a book, I mean the smexier the better. But these two were a little off the charts even for me.
As I just mentioned above this book was an ok book, and there were parts that I found enjoyable. I did really like the prologue and felt like the prologue would definitely pull you in. Also as mentioned at the beginning of this review I put that I believe this is the first time I've read anything by Mrs. Jayne and I said that because at the very end of the book Mrs. Jayne mentions that this book is a republished book and that she changed a few thing's in this book. I can't remember if I read the first version of this book or not, but the author's name sounded very familiar to me.
I'm giving this book 3.5 Stars out of 5!!!!
***I received an ARC of this book for my honest opinion***
Look I felt for both Matt and Gracelyn. They both lost someone who was very close and meant something to them. Obviously Gracelyn lost her husband and Matt lost his brother.
Here's the thing though I never felt the loss from them. I never felt that emotional pull from this book. I think I felt the loss more from Matt than I did Gracelyn. That also might have to do with the fact that this book was mostly in Matt's POV. I never felt the grief from Gracelyn of lossing a husband except for at the beginning.
Look I really really wanted to love this book. But honestly it was just kind of eh, to me. I felt like the prologue pulled me in, and than it just kind of trailed off. And honestly Matt and Gracelyn kind of wigged me out. I mean I'm all for moving on after a loss, but these two just kind of jump into it after a year. I mean yes it was more than obvious Matt had an attraction to Gracelyn, but I wasn't sure about her with him. Also I have no problem with smexiness in a book, I mean the smexier the better. But these two were a little off the charts even for me.
As I just mentioned above this book was an ok book, and there were parts that I found enjoyable. I did really like the prologue and felt like the prologue would definitely pull you in. Also as mentioned at the beginning of this review I put that I believe this is the first time I've read anything by Mrs. Jayne and I said that because at the very end of the book Mrs. Jayne mentions that this book is a republished book and that she changed a few thing's in this book. I can't remember if I read the first version of this book or not, but the author's name sounded very familiar to me.
I'm giving this book 3.5 Stars out of 5!!!!
***I received an ARC of this book for my honest opinion***
May 20, 2013
Wowza!! What a great story and holy steam factor!!!
I was loving this from beginning to end! The characters were very believable and the situation felt real. Matt was really struggling and made many bad decisions. But It was beautiful to see them come together and overcome the odds!! You really are with them all the way on their journey!
I love the hot and sexy idea of fireman but this story definitely reminds you that it really is not a safe job.
Cover Art- Yummilicious!! Love those abs!!!
*Disclosure: This ebook was provided to me free of charge through for the sole purpose of an honest review. All thoughts, comments, and ratings are my own.*
I was loving this from beginning to end! The characters were very believable and the situation felt real. Matt was really struggling and made many bad decisions. But It was beautiful to see them come together and overcome the odds!! You really are with them all the way on their journey!
I love the hot and sexy idea of fireman but this story definitely reminds you that it really is not a safe job.
Cover Art- Yummilicious!! Love those abs!!!
*Disclosure: This ebook was provided to me free of charge through for the sole purpose of an honest review. All thoughts, comments, and ratings are my own.*
April 19, 2013
So glad to have been able to tell this story! I really, really love these characters! Download your copy 4/25!
November 20, 2018
In Flames
by Jessica Jayne
Narrated by Samantha Cook and Joe Arden
Overall - 4 Stars
STORY 3.5:
Jayne’s latest is a sexy contemporary taboo romance with an off the charts heat level. Gracelyn and Matt are genuine and likeable characters and their love story is touching, emotional and explosive. The author does a wonderful job of dealing with all the negative and positive consequences of this very complicated relationship including the incredibly convoluted family dynamics. Even though the read tends to be on the wordy side it doesn’t affect the enjoyment of this sweet with heat romance. The real standout of the novel is Matt and Gracelyn’s love of and dedication to their family and to each other and the love they tried so hard to ignore triumphing.
NARRATION 4:
The narrators- Samantha Cook and Joe Arden do a wonderful job of bringing the novel to life for their listeners putting emotion and feeling in every sentence and scene and making the characters more three dimensional plus they both expertly handle male and female voices. The audible edition gives the audience a more in depth experience of the story.
SUMMARY:
On the first anniversary of Chad Riley perishing in a fire his widow Gracelyn and brother and fellow firefighter Matt who was at the fire that killed him give in to an attraction that’s been building over the past year not once but multiple times –– Gracielyn’s marriage to Chad wasn’t perfect but this past year has been difficult without him and would have been more difficult if not for Matt. She’s grateful for all that he’s done to help her and her two children after losing her husband and their dad and is ready to take these feelings to the next level, to see where it might lead. Butt Matt is more pragmatic, after all he’s lived in the shadow of his big brother Chad all his life and is convinced it will only hurt the ones they love, plus he’s afraid if they go forward he won’t be able to keep his hands off her and so is totally against it.
But are they strong enough to fight the flames and if they give in again will the heat heal or consume them?
by Jessica Jayne
Narrated by Samantha Cook and Joe Arden
Overall - 4 Stars
STORY 3.5:
Jayne’s latest is a sexy contemporary taboo romance with an off the charts heat level. Gracelyn and Matt are genuine and likeable characters and their love story is touching, emotional and explosive. The author does a wonderful job of dealing with all the negative and positive consequences of this very complicated relationship including the incredibly convoluted family dynamics. Even though the read tends to be on the wordy side it doesn’t affect the enjoyment of this sweet with heat romance. The real standout of the novel is Matt and Gracelyn’s love of and dedication to their family and to each other and the love they tried so hard to ignore triumphing.
NARRATION 4:
The narrators- Samantha Cook and Joe Arden do a wonderful job of bringing the novel to life for their listeners putting emotion and feeling in every sentence and scene and making the characters more three dimensional plus they both expertly handle male and female voices. The audible edition gives the audience a more in depth experience of the story.
SUMMARY:
On the first anniversary of Chad Riley perishing in a fire his widow Gracelyn and brother and fellow firefighter Matt who was at the fire that killed him give in to an attraction that’s been building over the past year not once but multiple times –– Gracielyn’s marriage to Chad wasn’t perfect but this past year has been difficult without him and would have been more difficult if not for Matt. She’s grateful for all that he’s done to help her and her two children after losing her husband and their dad and is ready to take these feelings to the next level, to see where it might lead. Butt Matt is more pragmatic, after all he’s lived in the shadow of his big brother Chad all his life and is convinced it will only hurt the ones they love, plus he’s afraid if they go forward he won’t be able to keep his hands off her and so is totally against it.
But are they strong enough to fight the flames and if they give in again will the heat heal or consume them?
August 3, 2018
In Flames by Jessica Jayne was my first book of this author.
There are moments when I want to write about book but I don't know what to write…
Sometimes I’m lack of words because book can be bad, but now I’m speachless because this story give me so much heart ache.
When You’ll read the blurb You know from the beginig that this book won’t be easy . It can’t be simple if You start with broken heart.
That’s why In Flames gave my hard times.
Gracelyn is young widow, she suffering after losing her husband, but this pain was made not only by death of her husband. She’s very sad because her husband wasn’t honest with her and now she need to deal with all things, which he left behind…. but , just around the corner there is Matt.
Gracelyn and Matt don’t know that they perfect together… but life will show them how to find each other.
In some eyes this could be just oridinary love story, but I won’t agree with that.
In every book of this kind I always find hope , that even worst time in life can be changed. that there's always way out.
In every book of this kind I find the truth – that everyone need simple and oridanry LOVE, because family, respect, love and health are the most important things in our lifes.
This book wasn't simple but I'm glad that I meet Jessica Jayne writting in my life.
There are moments when I want to write about book but I don't know what to write…
Sometimes I’m lack of words because book can be bad, but now I’m speachless because this story give me so much heart ache.
When You’ll read the blurb You know from the beginig that this book won’t be easy . It can’t be simple if You start with broken heart.
That’s why In Flames gave my hard times.
Gracelyn is young widow, she suffering after losing her husband, but this pain was made not only by death of her husband. She’s very sad because her husband wasn’t honest with her and now she need to deal with all things, which he left behind…. but , just around the corner there is Matt.
Gracelyn and Matt don’t know that they perfect together… but life will show them how to find each other.
In some eyes this could be just oridinary love story, but I won’t agree with that.
In every book of this kind I always find hope , that even worst time in life can be changed. that there's always way out.
In every book of this kind I find the truth – that everyone need simple and oridanry LOVE, because family, respect, love and health are the most important things in our lifes.
This book wasn't simple but I'm glad that I meet Jessica Jayne writting in my life.
June 1, 2013
4 stars. This book was a lovely Love story that united a couple from loss to a beautiful relationship with each other and the children that surround them. His Mom was very wrong, I understand she lost one son but she forgot she still had a daughter and another son. But Matt, how adorable was he with Greyslyn he loved her from the moment they were spending time together and didn't know how to tell her. That is a beautiful man, even though he needed to be a little stronger to his mom. Bravo to Ms. Jayne, a truly great book, Thank you.
August 3, 2018
There's no time limit for grieving. It's something I really, truly believe in. It doesn't mean that I'm okay with someone fading into nothing because of their grief. There's so much life to live beyond that deep rooted sadness; you just need to figure out what that life is now.
Sometimes the best one to help you along is the person you leaned on the heaviest in your grief.
I... I both hate and love this story. Hate it for the emotions, mainly sorrow, it evoked. Yet I love it for the same reason. The depth of Gracelyn and Matt's sorrow took my breath away, swept me up, left me struggling with vines of hope that one day they would feel whole again. Loved again. Feel like they could love again without regards to who it is.
It's stunning, not shocking, that it turned out to be one another. Comfort did that, and it was, honestly, beautiful to watch it turn into the beginning of love that was deeper than friendship.
I gleefully write this part not out of some twisted delight in watching two people who desperately deserve happiness and love after tragedy suffer, but because I believe it's real, that it happens. I can't speak from personal experience yet I can't imagine the pursuit of this kind of love in this kind of circumstance wouldn't be without backlash from people who were familiar with their circumstance. Going into this would draw fire from all sides and cause confusion among the children that Matt and Gracelyn had from before. The question that begs to be asked is, is it worth it?
And, I suppose, the bigger question could be how could it not be worth it?
I believe that love is worth the struggle, the fire it draws, the desperation to hold onto the belief that they are worthy of what they feel, of what they could have when that love is right. And I also believe that love can be birthed from shared grief, from comfort given, from firsthand understanding of what it's like to lose everything in the blink of an eye and to find everything in a heartbeat.
Ms. Jayne knows how to write life into fiction, how to fill it with emotional upheaval, and how to settle it with happily ever after. Gracelyn and Matt's story is steeped in tragedy and guilt, yet the glimmer of a brighter tomorrow hovers just over the horizon. The shadows that threaten to swallow them whole retreat as they journey towards it until they stand tall and proud and happy and deeply in love in the light of an amazing future together.
Received from publisher for an honest review
Sometimes the best one to help you along is the person you leaned on the heaviest in your grief.
I... I both hate and love this story. Hate it for the emotions, mainly sorrow, it evoked. Yet I love it for the same reason. The depth of Gracelyn and Matt's sorrow took my breath away, swept me up, left me struggling with vines of hope that one day they would feel whole again. Loved again. Feel like they could love again without regards to who it is.
It's stunning, not shocking, that it turned out to be one another. Comfort did that, and it was, honestly, beautiful to watch it turn into the beginning of love that was deeper than friendship.
I gleefully write this part not out of some twisted delight in watching two people who desperately deserve happiness and love after tragedy suffer, but because I believe it's real, that it happens. I can't speak from personal experience yet I can't imagine the pursuit of this kind of love in this kind of circumstance wouldn't be without backlash from people who were familiar with their circumstance. Going into this would draw fire from all sides and cause confusion among the children that Matt and Gracelyn had from before. The question that begs to be asked is, is it worth it?
And, I suppose, the bigger question could be how could it not be worth it?
I believe that love is worth the struggle, the fire it draws, the desperation to hold onto the belief that they are worthy of what they feel, of what they could have when that love is right. And I also believe that love can be birthed from shared grief, from comfort given, from firsthand understanding of what it's like to lose everything in the blink of an eye and to find everything in a heartbeat.
Ms. Jayne knows how to write life into fiction, how to fill it with emotional upheaval, and how to settle it with happily ever after. Gracelyn and Matt's story is steeped in tragedy and guilt, yet the glimmer of a brighter tomorrow hovers just over the horizon. The shadows that threaten to swallow them whole retreat as they journey towards it until they stand tall and proud and happy and deeply in love in the light of an amazing future together.
Received from publisher for an honest review
January 10, 2019
Wow!! Hot Damn!! was my first thought after finishing this book. I am starting to really get in the romance genre, I have not read much in this genre so I was unaware that they had such books as these. This book is HOT like hot damn hot. I listened to this book in one sitting. I needed something to distract myself from the all the Drs visits and lab work and waiting, so I thought why not just listen to my ARC of In Flames? So I downloaded it and started to listen.
Let me say something first. It is REALLY hard to distract me when I am in a mood ad the Drs keep going just ONE MORE TEST. I was starting to get all stabby and be like bitch please you have already taken 10 tubes of blood, why do you need more? And when I got fed up, I would go home without the vampires getting more of my blood. Heh, So you can see why I needed "brain candy" to distract me and not get all bitchy at the nurses and the Drs.
I liked this audiobook so much that even when the Dr was in the room, I kept listening heh. It was only recently that I have started to get into the romance genre and damn was I missing out. I thank the Book Gods that all of Jessica Jayne books are on Kindle Unlimited. Yes, I renewed my subscription to that program to hear/read more books by Jessica Jayne.
When you first hear the story, it starts with action right away. No listening for an hour wondering if you should call it quits and DNF it or to plod on hoping that the book will redeem itself.
A pet peeve of mine is when an author takes 100 pages to set up the story. Yes, 85 percent of the time it is worth it but the rest of the time it is pure shit, and as a reader, it is difficult to know what books to throw in the towel on.
I was happy to hear some action in the first five minutes into this story. And it was a good action, not a filler; it was action that helped the overall plot of the book and the whole book is one thing after another and it kept me entertained waiting for the Dr.
I did at some point question the ethics of what happened, but then I reminded myself it is a book and it only real inside your head. At times I become so engrossed in a story that I get mad if something happened that I thought should not have.
I am not sure if this would qualify for "instant-love," but it does get physical and fast and hot.
One word of caution though is there is umm a lot of physical "activities" that happen so if you prefer not to hear detailed descriptions of a woman getting fucked out of her mind then you should maybe pass this book on by. However, if you are NOT the prudish sort then go to Amazon and get you a copy and listen. Make sure you have six hours to do so cause once you start you will not want to stop till you reach the end.
About the narration, I listened, and I was all like OMG THE DUDE FROM CAKE IS ALSO A FIREFIGHTER! Then I looked and yes they have the same NARRATOR but completely different stories. I have only been able to understand audiobooks for a year now so I really had no idea that there are a few top-notch narrators that read a lot of the books for audio.
I
This review was originally posted on Adventures in Never Never Land
Let me say something first. It is REALLY hard to distract me when I am in a mood ad the Drs keep going just ONE MORE TEST. I was starting to get all stabby and be like bitch please you have already taken 10 tubes of blood, why do you need more? And when I got fed up, I would go home without the vampires getting more of my blood. Heh, So you can see why I needed "brain candy" to distract me and not get all bitchy at the nurses and the Drs.
I liked this audiobook so much that even when the Dr was in the room, I kept listening heh. It was only recently that I have started to get into the romance genre and damn was I missing out. I thank the Book Gods that all of Jessica Jayne books are on Kindle Unlimited. Yes, I renewed my subscription to that program to hear/read more books by Jessica Jayne.
When you first hear the story, it starts with action right away. No listening for an hour wondering if you should call it quits and DNF it or to plod on hoping that the book will redeem itself.
A pet peeve of mine is when an author takes 100 pages to set up the story. Yes, 85 percent of the time it is worth it but the rest of the time it is pure shit, and as a reader, it is difficult to know what books to throw in the towel on.
I was happy to hear some action in the first five minutes into this story. And it was a good action, not a filler; it was action that helped the overall plot of the book and the whole book is one thing after another and it kept me entertained waiting for the Dr.
I did at some point question the ethics of what happened, but then I reminded myself it is a book and it only real inside your head. At times I become so engrossed in a story that I get mad if something happened that I thought should not have.
I am not sure if this would qualify for "instant-love," but it does get physical and fast and hot.
One word of caution though is there is umm a lot of physical "activities" that happen so if you prefer not to hear detailed descriptions of a woman getting fucked out of her mind then you should maybe pass this book on by. However, if you are NOT the prudish sort then go to Amazon and get you a copy and listen. Make sure you have six hours to do so cause once you start you will not want to stop till you reach the end.
About the narration, I listened, and I was all like OMG THE DUDE FROM CAKE IS ALSO A FIREFIGHTER! Then I looked and yes they have the same NARRATOR but completely different stories. I have only been able to understand audiobooks for a year now so I really had no idea that there are a few top-notch narrators that read a lot of the books for audio.
I
This review was originally posted on Adventures in Never Never Land
August 3, 2018
I received an ARC of IN FLAMES from the very talented author JESSICA JAYNE.In exchange for an honest opinion. This is my opinion of her amazing book. Acrually Jessica Jayne has just re-released this book. Having never read the first copy of it.I don't know what she changed or added. But I can tell you this. THIS ONE IS HOT!!! She has you at the very first page. You are held hostage. The reader will find themself unable to put the book down. This book is a fast read .The way in which Ms Jayne describes her scenes ia totally out of this world. You can picture everything -the fire-field- the characters. She describes it all in such depth and detail.
This is a story that starts out tragic for Gracelyn Riley as her husband Chad is a firefighter. He runs into the burning building trying to safe a life. Unfortunatley -Chad looses his life. Now his brother Matt goes to his house where Chad lived Gracelynn and the kids. They had just gotten back together. It's not fair- Chad is the one that was the fair haired child of the family. He could do no wrong. As for Matt - nothing he ever did was good enough for his mom. Now he wants to be the one to give Gracelyn the bad news. When she opens the door- Gracelyn realizes why he is there. She starts to fall but Matt catches her. Together they both start to grief for their loss. Over time Matt helps Gracelyn out at her house with a repairs-they spend time together. Every day is the family dinner at his parents house. Gracelyn and the kids still come to it. His mom still refers to her as being Chad's wife. Now the more time they spend together. The more that they have to fight the love that they have. Matt can't love his brother's wife. It's not right. Gracelyn says it right for her to love Matt as Chad is not here. Will these two get together? Will the family accept the love that they have? For the answers to these and more. You need to get this amazing spelling binding book. I recommend this book for all that love a good adult comtemporary romance. I give this 5 mouse paws. Make sure to add this to your goodreads reading list. And to add to Jessica Jayne to your Bookbub following list. Now go get this book now!!!
This is a story that starts out tragic for Gracelyn Riley as her husband Chad is a firefighter. He runs into the burning building trying to safe a life. Unfortunatley -Chad looses his life. Now his brother Matt goes to his house where Chad lived Gracelynn and the kids. They had just gotten back together. It's not fair- Chad is the one that was the fair haired child of the family. He could do no wrong. As for Matt - nothing he ever did was good enough for his mom. Now he wants to be the one to give Gracelyn the bad news. When she opens the door- Gracelyn realizes why he is there. She starts to fall but Matt catches her. Together they both start to grief for their loss. Over time Matt helps Gracelyn out at her house with a repairs-they spend time together. Every day is the family dinner at his parents house. Gracelyn and the kids still come to it. His mom still refers to her as being Chad's wife. Now the more time they spend together. The more that they have to fight the love that they have. Matt can't love his brother's wife. It's not right. Gracelyn says it right for her to love Matt as Chad is not here. Will these two get together? Will the family accept the love that they have? For the answers to these and more. You need to get this amazing spelling binding book. I recommend this book for all that love a good adult comtemporary romance. I give this 5 mouse paws. Make sure to add this to your goodreads reading list. And to add to Jessica Jayne to your Bookbub following list. Now go get this book now!!!
August 1, 2018
Jessica Jayne is a new author for me and she definitely hooked me with the blurb for In Flames. And, well, the cover too. I'm up for a good firefighter romance any day and this one sounded like it was one I'd really enjoy.
The prologue was a real clincher, setting the foundation for lots of emotions to follow. But they didn't and that's my real struggle with the story. The reader was told that Matt struggled with his brother's death, not only as a fireman in the same unit but also from being his brother, by turning to alcohol but that was it. Other than Gracelyn being the one who pulled him from that time, there were no other details about it. I know this is a small portion to the story but I think it would've added a whole bunch of meaning had we, the reader, been able to "feel" more of the grief.
I never could quite connect with Gracelyn because I don't feel she truly grieved about losing her husband. Maybe it was the fact that they'd had their moments before he passed with his infidelity, but I just didn't see the emotional breakdown that a fireman's wife should've experienced.
The escapades she had with Matt were hot and certainly steamy and that's the part that pulled me through the rest of the story. I did notice there were a few things that were conflicting through the story, like she smelled like strawberries then a few pages later she smell like cinnamon. Also, things were repeated over and over and were overused.
Aside from a few little things as I mentioned above, the story itself had a lot of potential to be a great one. As I said, I liked the premise so I tried to block a few things so that I could enjoy it. I really wanted to love this story, and with a little tweaking, I feel it could be a lot better. I'll still look for other stories to read by this author because I think she has really great ideas when it comes to her story.
The prologue was a real clincher, setting the foundation for lots of emotions to follow. But they didn't and that's my real struggle with the story. The reader was told that Matt struggled with his brother's death, not only as a fireman in the same unit but also from being his brother, by turning to alcohol but that was it. Other than Gracelyn being the one who pulled him from that time, there were no other details about it. I know this is a small portion to the story but I think it would've added a whole bunch of meaning had we, the reader, been able to "feel" more of the grief.
I never could quite connect with Gracelyn because I don't feel she truly grieved about losing her husband. Maybe it was the fact that they'd had their moments before he passed with his infidelity, but I just didn't see the emotional breakdown that a fireman's wife should've experienced.
The escapades she had with Matt were hot and certainly steamy and that's the part that pulled me through the rest of the story. I did notice there were a few things that were conflicting through the story, like she smelled like strawberries then a few pages later she smell like cinnamon. Also, things were repeated over and over and were overused.
Aside from a few little things as I mentioned above, the story itself had a lot of potential to be a great one. As I said, I liked the premise so I tried to block a few things so that I could enjoy it. I really wanted to love this story, and with a little tweaking, I feel it could be a lot better. I'll still look for other stories to read by this author because I think she has really great ideas when it comes to her story.
July 23, 2018
My kindle is still literally sizzling hours after finishing this story. I was so excited to read this book, based on the blurb alone you know it’s going to be an angst filled forbidden romance. I was not disappointed at all! I blew through this book in a couple hours, simply because I couldn’t put it down.
My favorite part about this book was the way that Matty and Gracelyn simply could not keep their hands off each other. Try as they might, it was next to impossible for them to stay away. When they did-it was a reunion of epic proportions that was a HUGE treat for readers. Gracelyn was scarred from loosing her husband, but she was bold and knew she deserved happiness-something that you can admire in her character. Matty-oh god Matty! So hot and so caring! I loved his character to the moon! It’s so refreshing to read about a man who cares not only about a woman’s physical features, but also how great of a mother she was, and simply how she went through life.
I would give this five stars because there’s simply nothing I would change about it. The length was perfect, the character depth was there for me to fall in love with them, and the story never dragged! In the back of my mind I’m hoping this author continued with a story for Sarah, Matty’s sister, because I’m that addicted to this story. A must read!
My favorite part about this book was the way that Matty and Gracelyn simply could not keep their hands off each other. Try as they might, it was next to impossible for them to stay away. When they did-it was a reunion of epic proportions that was a HUGE treat for readers. Gracelyn was scarred from loosing her husband, but she was bold and knew she deserved happiness-something that you can admire in her character. Matty-oh god Matty! So hot and so caring! I loved his character to the moon! It’s so refreshing to read about a man who cares not only about a woman’s physical features, but also how great of a mother she was, and simply how she went through life.
I would give this five stars because there’s simply nothing I would change about it. The length was perfect, the character depth was there for me to fall in love with them, and the story never dragged! In the back of my mind I’m hoping this author continued with a story for Sarah, Matty’s sister, because I’m that addicted to this story. A must read!
August 2, 2018
When Matt has to relay the news to his sister-in-law, Gracelyn, that his brother Chad died fighting a fire they were both on, it cements the strong bond he and Gracelyn already have. Since Gracelyn lost Chad, Matt has been her rock and her best friend, and she's been his. He's been there for her and his niece and nephew, offering emotional support, and just being around when they needed a hand. She helped him through the haze of drinking binges he went on after Chad's death. She was there for him when he got divorced, and now on the first anniversary of Chad's death, she needs Matt to be there for her. When the passion between them explodes, it's something that happens naturally, and beautifully; but it's something they both agree can never happen again.
But when it's apparent that the feelings between Gracelyn and Matt are morphing into much, much more, can they suffer through what will surely be condemnation from Matt's family and the rest of their small town, so they can be together in love? Or will it all be too much for them to handle?
In Flames is a poignant look at moving on and falling in love. What Matt and Gracelyn have is unconventional, sure, but it's quite beautiful, too. I loved the way they went from best friends to so much more. They way they reacted to the situation, and to each other, is realistic and a little heartbreaking. And super steamy, too! If this is the caliber of the author's writing, then I know I am definitely looking forward to more from her.
I received an ARC for an honest review.
But when it's apparent that the feelings between Gracelyn and Matt are morphing into much, much more, can they suffer through what will surely be condemnation from Matt's family and the rest of their small town, so they can be together in love? Or will it all be too much for them to handle?
In Flames is a poignant look at moving on and falling in love. What Matt and Gracelyn have is unconventional, sure, but it's quite beautiful, too. I loved the way they went from best friends to so much more. They way they reacted to the situation, and to each other, is realistic and a little heartbreaking. And super steamy, too! If this is the caliber of the author's writing, then I know I am definitely looking forward to more from her.
I received an ARC for an honest review.
August 3, 2018
Jessica Jayne is a new to me author, so I knew that I loved me some yummy firemen, but didn't know what else to expect. Well, first of all, her writing style is super talented enough to grab my attention from the beginning, although it was super sad and my eyes threatened to leak from the get go. Then, I couldn't help but keep turning the pages as quickly as possible after that. It starts out with Matt losing his big brother to a fire while they were on a shift together, as they both work for the fire department, and he's the one who tells his sister in law what happened. So see, already big drama & emotional upheaval from the get go. Then fast forward to a year later, on the anniversary when Matt & Gracelyn hooked up, whether from emotions or the flammable chemistry they have & being best friends. So that brings out all the push & pull of guilt from that, and yet, they work so well and light things on fire during sexy times, that they can't keep away from each other either now. See?! That's already all kinds addictive stuff that makes it that type of story to keep the pages turning quickly and there's so much more. Then, I'm glad that I didn't start it at night because I wouldn't have gone to sleep until every last page was read. Now all you have to do is get this book in order to see if they overcome their guilt, and anything that other people may throw at them for catching feelings for each other! HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
August 6, 2018
I had high hopes for this story. I love emotional stories where you really don't expect a love story. And friends of loved ones where you don't see a love story coming until something tragic happens is one of my faves. So I was excited to read this story. Two friends that don't expect anything from each other other than to grieve and mourn their husband and friend.
Matt and Gracelyn are grieving and connecting on a different level than I think anyone could really understand unless you go through it yourself. But while yes they are going through the motions. I felt that Matt grieved and had way more emotions then Gracelyn ever did. The story is heartbreaking and feels somewhat real. But I feel like the story was more for Matts benefit then Gracelyn- hope that makes sense.
This is my first Jessica Jayne story and although this one had a few quirks in it, I will read other stories by her.
July 29, 2018
IN FLAMES is a steamy standalone and my first book by author Jessica Jayne.
Gracelyn has been a single mom and a widow for a very long, tough year. Her best friend and the rock she's leaned on? Her brother-in-law, single dad and firefighter, Matt. He's come to rely on Gracelyn's strength too. But on the one year anniversary of his brother's death, Matt and Gracelyn turn to each other for comfort. When that consolation becomes sexual, they embark on a relationship that could affect a lot of people. Are they strong enough to push past the boundaries set on them by others?
This is a slightly angsty, well written read. It's not too long so it can probably be read in one sitting. I'll confess that I adore a good forbidden romance and Gracelyn and Matt's story did not disappoint! The hot as hell nooky starts almost from the very beginning and is a huge part of the entire book. But this isn't just a lot of mindless bonking. No, you can FEEL how much Gracelyn and Matt are drawn to each other. And my heart pounded when they were forced to tell their kids and Matt's parents. Geez, talk about awkward!
I loved Gracelyn, I felt like she was someone I could be friends with. She was smart and funny and loving. I liked Matt too but he seemed just a tad too emotional for my taste. I know, know...a guy who can cry is wonderful, blah blah blah. I just like my heroes to be bigger, badder alphas!
I'm really glad I picked this one up, Ms. Jayne is an author to keep my eye on! Told from dual POVs with a sticky sweet ending. I voluntarily read and reviewed this book.
Gracelyn has been a single mom and a widow for a very long, tough year. Her best friend and the rock she's leaned on? Her brother-in-law, single dad and firefighter, Matt. He's come to rely on Gracelyn's strength too. But on the one year anniversary of his brother's death, Matt and Gracelyn turn to each other for comfort. When that consolation becomes sexual, they embark on a relationship that could affect a lot of people. Are they strong enough to push past the boundaries set on them by others?
This is a slightly angsty, well written read. It's not too long so it can probably be read in one sitting. I'll confess that I adore a good forbidden romance and Gracelyn and Matt's story did not disappoint! The hot as hell nooky starts almost from the very beginning and is a huge part of the entire book. But this isn't just a lot of mindless bonking. No, you can FEEL how much Gracelyn and Matt are drawn to each other. And my heart pounded when they were forced to tell their kids and Matt's parents. Geez, talk about awkward!
I loved Gracelyn, I felt like she was someone I could be friends with. She was smart and funny and loving. I liked Matt too but he seemed just a tad too emotional for my taste. I know, know...a guy who can cry is wonderful, blah blah blah. I just like my heroes to be bigger, badder alphas!
I'm really glad I picked this one up, Ms. Jayne is an author to keep my eye on! Told from dual POVs with a sticky sweet ending. I voluntarily read and reviewed this book.
July 29, 2018
Gracelyn is a widow after her fire-fighter husband was killed in the line of duty.
Matt is her brother-in-law, who is also a fire-fighter, and is suffering from survivor’s guilt at not being able to save his brother. These two have been there and supported each other for the past year, and when their feeling change, will they be able to take a chance on each other? No spoilers; this is a definite must read, you will not be disappointed! This is a beautifully written story, which is emotional and heartbreaking, which all had me intrigued and captivated throughout this page turner. I cannot wait to read more of this authors’ work, and I highly recommend her work for all readers!
Matt is her brother-in-law, who is also a fire-fighter, and is suffering from survivor’s guilt at not being able to save his brother. These two have been there and supported each other for the past year, and when their feeling change, will they be able to take a chance on each other? No spoilers; this is a definite must read, you will not be disappointed! This is a beautifully written story, which is emotional and heartbreaking, which all had me intrigued and captivated throughout this page turner. I cannot wait to read more of this authors’ work, and I highly recommend her work for all readers!
August 2, 2018
This book was a pleasant surprise for me. I loved the concept of how falling in love with someone close to you and your family could change not only your life but those around you. I never thought this book would grab me by the heart like it did but I am so happy that I found it. The writing of these characters was seamless and I enjoyed the way that the point of view changed from Matt to Gracelyn so easily that I was able to feel them both attempt to fight their feelings but inevitably gave into them. Their chemistry was off the charts and the story was sexy while being sensitive to their family members. I loved this and hope to read many more from the author.
August 4, 2018
In Flames burned, in more ways than one! Matt and Gracelyn both shared their grief as well as their feelings that became so much more than expected. This was one hot read, with high emotions battling each other. I loved these two, and watching them weather the storm of the sadness was so touching! There was a lot of pain and angst, but the chemistry between Gracelyn and Matt blew so hot! I thoroughly enjoyed their story!
May 24, 2013
3.5 stars
Gracelyn lost her husband on the job a year ago. Matt lost his brother – and has always felt survivor’s guilt over not saving his brother Chad that day. It’s an impossible guilt because he would have perished himself had his fellow firefighters not held him back.
We pick up the story on the anniversary of Chad’s death where Gracelyn is struggling with her emotions and crushed at the thought of moving on without her husband and the father of her children. Whilst it had not been an ideal marriage Gracelyn loved this man and they shared two children together who are also grieve the loss of their father.
Gracelyn has managed to cope up until now and that has been mostly due to her friendship with her brother in law Matt who has been instrumental in seeing her through this past year by always being there for her and the children at every turn. Their relationship has always been platonic and they have been a great support to one another following Chad’s death, Matt especially has been Gracelyn’s rock.
In comforting each other on the anniversary of Chads death, something changes when two grieving people turn to each other in their moment of despair and a kiss provokes hidden feelings to bubble to the surface. Both Gracelyn and Matt discover they have feelings that are way beyond platonic. It’s not just physical either; they both have very deep feelings which they had tried to deny.
Acting on these feelings brings up a huge set of issues for the pair. There’s Matt’s family. His mother in particular has struggled deeply with Chad’s passing and Matt was always thought of as the “lessor” son in a way and he knows his mother will take their relationship badly and would see it as an affront to Chad’s memory. Matt also has a son from a failed marriage to think of and Gracelyn’s two children adore their Uncle Matt, but taking their relationship to the next level could cause ostracism from the community and backlash from Matt’s family.
They both try their very best, although unsuccessfully, to quell the strong feelings both sexually and emotionally they feel towards one another. They both need to deal with their guilt. Gracelyn over the fact she has feelings and desires for her husband’s brother and had asked for a separation Chadjust before his death, and Matt because he feels a strong sense of guilt for possessing the feelings he has for Gracelyn that are definitely not platonic.
This book was high on heat and did have emotion, especially when both needed to face Matt’s family in regard to their feelings for one another. However for me, at times it felt like I was reading the story rather than “experiencing” it. We were told snippets about Chad and why his marriage to Gracelyn was on the rocks, and to be honest, I had no feelings for him; in fact I wasn’t very fond of him one way or the other.
With this came my opinion that Gracelyn shouldn’t maintain any guilt over her attraction to Matt at all. From what Matt and Gracelyn relayed via their pov’s Chad was a questionable husband and didn’t deserve Gracelyn’s guilt, though I did understand why she felt that way.
Chad had disrespected Gracelyn during their marriage, and this woman should have felt no guilt or remorse at all over her feelings for Matt. I was cheering them both on every minute of the way. Maybe if I could have heard more about when Chad and Gracelyn were really happy, more of the good times they had, I might have felt more of a connection and in return experienced the conflict she was feeling.
Having both perspectives did allow the reader to feel the huge amount of guilt and conflict Matt was experiencing and his intense desire and want for Gracelyn certainly shone through.
You really sense that staying apart from her kills him just as much as being with her does. I felt that, I got that from Matt, but I what I didn’t feel was conflict on Gracelyn’s part.
This book had the things we love; A wonderful family, romance, heat, emotion and a HEA. The sex was steamy and the characters relatable, not to mention it’s a stand alone! No cliffy in this one!
Whilst I did feel the emotion and loved this authors writing style, I have to say I was hoping this was going to be more of a gut wrenching emotional read than it turned out to be. I really wanted to experience the conflict and turmoil of these characters, but for me personally, that wasn’t the case. In saying that, I really did enjoy this book and would recommend picking it up. I know a lot of readers will love this one.
Gracelyn lost her husband on the job a year ago. Matt lost his brother – and has always felt survivor’s guilt over not saving his brother Chad that day. It’s an impossible guilt because he would have perished himself had his fellow firefighters not held him back.
We pick up the story on the anniversary of Chad’s death where Gracelyn is struggling with her emotions and crushed at the thought of moving on without her husband and the father of her children. Whilst it had not been an ideal marriage Gracelyn loved this man and they shared two children together who are also grieve the loss of their father.
Gracelyn has managed to cope up until now and that has been mostly due to her friendship with her brother in law Matt who has been instrumental in seeing her through this past year by always being there for her and the children at every turn. Their relationship has always been platonic and they have been a great support to one another following Chad’s death, Matt especially has been Gracelyn’s rock.
In comforting each other on the anniversary of Chads death, something changes when two grieving people turn to each other in their moment of despair and a kiss provokes hidden feelings to bubble to the surface. Both Gracelyn and Matt discover they have feelings that are way beyond platonic. It’s not just physical either; they both have very deep feelings which they had tried to deny.
Acting on these feelings brings up a huge set of issues for the pair. There’s Matt’s family. His mother in particular has struggled deeply with Chad’s passing and Matt was always thought of as the “lessor” son in a way and he knows his mother will take their relationship badly and would see it as an affront to Chad’s memory. Matt also has a son from a failed marriage to think of and Gracelyn’s two children adore their Uncle Matt, but taking their relationship to the next level could cause ostracism from the community and backlash from Matt’s family.
They both try their very best, although unsuccessfully, to quell the strong feelings both sexually and emotionally they feel towards one another. They both need to deal with their guilt. Gracelyn over the fact she has feelings and desires for her husband’s brother and had asked for a separation Chadjust before his death, and Matt because he feels a strong sense of guilt for possessing the feelings he has for Gracelyn that are definitely not platonic.
This book was high on heat and did have emotion, especially when both needed to face Matt’s family in regard to their feelings for one another. However for me, at times it felt like I was reading the story rather than “experiencing” it. We were told snippets about Chad and why his marriage to Gracelyn was on the rocks, and to be honest, I had no feelings for him; in fact I wasn’t very fond of him one way or the other.
With this came my opinion that Gracelyn shouldn’t maintain any guilt over her attraction to Matt at all. From what Matt and Gracelyn relayed via their pov’s Chad was a questionable husband and didn’t deserve Gracelyn’s guilt, though I did understand why she felt that way.
Chad had disrespected Gracelyn during their marriage, and this woman should have felt no guilt or remorse at all over her feelings for Matt. I was cheering them both on every minute of the way. Maybe if I could have heard more about when Chad and Gracelyn were really happy, more of the good times they had, I might have felt more of a connection and in return experienced the conflict she was feeling.
Having both perspectives did allow the reader to feel the huge amount of guilt and conflict Matt was experiencing and his intense desire and want for Gracelyn certainly shone through.
You really sense that staying apart from her kills him just as much as being with her does. I felt that, I got that from Matt, but I what I didn’t feel was conflict on Gracelyn’s part.
This book had the things we love; A wonderful family, romance, heat, emotion and a HEA. The sex was steamy and the characters relatable, not to mention it’s a stand alone! No cliffy in this one!
Whilst I did feel the emotion and loved this authors writing style, I have to say I was hoping this was going to be more of a gut wrenching emotional read than it turned out to be. I really wanted to experience the conflict and turmoil of these characters, but for me personally, that wasn’t the case. In saying that, I really did enjoy this book and would recommend picking it up. I know a lot of readers will love this one.
May 21, 2013
In Flames by Jessica Jayne not only puts its characters through the wringer, but its readers too, as this angst-ridden story presents two people brought together in mutual grief and the fallout of their love that is frowned upon by some. Along with intense emotional issues comes lots of steamy sexual encounters, almost too many at times, that left me fanning myself as each page was turned. With lots of roadblocks along the way, it was both a relief and an applaud-worthy ending that readers are ultimately rewarded with.
It's the one year anniversary of her husband's death and Gracelyn is ready to move on and return to the land of the living. And move on she does with her super sexy brother-in-law whose life has been full of grief too. It's two damaged souls that come together in a moment of passion that leaves them both conflicted but totally obsessed with each other. For one moment Gracelyn thinks their being together is a bad idea, but after realizing how freeing being with Matt is and how desirable he makes her feel she's ready to fight to keep them together. Upon his death Gracelyn and her husband were separated due to his numerous infidelities, which the author reminds us of VERY often, so she hasn't felt like a woman in a long time. Her newfound feelings are incredibly empowering and it's an increasingly stronger and outspoken Gracelyn that emerges once she and Matt connect. It takes a lot of tears and an argument or two before they're both willing to fight for their happiness and I could've cheered when that moment arrived.
Matt saw his brother die and could do nothing to stop it. For a long time he wished it had been him who died as his brother was always the family's Golden Boy while Matt was the screw-up. His own marriage had just ended and the combined events led him to drinking and numerous one night stands. Lots of therapy, and spending time helping and talking to Gracelyn, got him through the pain and it's a more mature Matt that has evolved. Being with Gracelyn and her kids has made him into someone you can rely on. It's also made him realize how much he cares for and admires her, along with finding her incredibly attractive. He's been fighting his feelings for a long time, but that fateful anniversary night has him demonstrating his feelings very clearly. Guilt again rears its ugly head as Matt worries how others will perceive their relationship and the possible hurts it might cause his family and the kids involved. Through a huge chunk of the story he lets his fears win as he pushes her away. Jealousy forces him to act and damn the consequences as the remainder of the story deals with the fallout in a realistic way.
There's an intriguing mix of secondary characters that are greatly affected by this new relationship. Matt's mother is still grief-stricken and is the biggest opponent as she still can't fully accept her son's death and Gracelyn being anything other than Chad's wife. She sees this act as the ultimate betrayal based on blatant religious beliefs. Matt's ex is a shrew and her purpose in the story appears to be making him miserable as she's still obsessed with him. She lives up to all the stereotypes of an ex by verbally lashing out and I found her thoroughly annoying. While Gracelyn's kids easily accept their being together, it's Matt's son that's grief-stricken in a scene that's very believable and brings a tear to your eye.
Through it all Ms. Jayne has created a story that realistically deals with grief and the process of moving on. The relationship between Matt and Gracelyn has evolved believably over time and isn't something they enter into lightly. The author nicely balances intense emotions alongside numerous steamy sexual interludes in a heartwrenching story full of roadblocks that ultimately culminates in a satisfying conclusion.
It's the one year anniversary of her husband's death and Gracelyn is ready to move on and return to the land of the living. And move on she does with her super sexy brother-in-law whose life has been full of grief too. It's two damaged souls that come together in a moment of passion that leaves them both conflicted but totally obsessed with each other. For one moment Gracelyn thinks their being together is a bad idea, but after realizing how freeing being with Matt is and how desirable he makes her feel she's ready to fight to keep them together. Upon his death Gracelyn and her husband were separated due to his numerous infidelities, which the author reminds us of VERY often, so she hasn't felt like a woman in a long time. Her newfound feelings are incredibly empowering and it's an increasingly stronger and outspoken Gracelyn that emerges once she and Matt connect. It takes a lot of tears and an argument or two before they're both willing to fight for their happiness and I could've cheered when that moment arrived.
Matt saw his brother die and could do nothing to stop it. For a long time he wished it had been him who died as his brother was always the family's Golden Boy while Matt was the screw-up. His own marriage had just ended and the combined events led him to drinking and numerous one night stands. Lots of therapy, and spending time helping and talking to Gracelyn, got him through the pain and it's a more mature Matt that has evolved. Being with Gracelyn and her kids has made him into someone you can rely on. It's also made him realize how much he cares for and admires her, along with finding her incredibly attractive. He's been fighting his feelings for a long time, but that fateful anniversary night has him demonstrating his feelings very clearly. Guilt again rears its ugly head as Matt worries how others will perceive their relationship and the possible hurts it might cause his family and the kids involved. Through a huge chunk of the story he lets his fears win as he pushes her away. Jealousy forces him to act and damn the consequences as the remainder of the story deals with the fallout in a realistic way.
There's an intriguing mix of secondary characters that are greatly affected by this new relationship. Matt's mother is still grief-stricken and is the biggest opponent as she still can't fully accept her son's death and Gracelyn being anything other than Chad's wife. She sees this act as the ultimate betrayal based on blatant religious beliefs. Matt's ex is a shrew and her purpose in the story appears to be making him miserable as she's still obsessed with him. She lives up to all the stereotypes of an ex by verbally lashing out and I found her thoroughly annoying. While Gracelyn's kids easily accept their being together, it's Matt's son that's grief-stricken in a scene that's very believable and brings a tear to your eye.
Through it all Ms. Jayne has created a story that realistically deals with grief and the process of moving on. The relationship between Matt and Gracelyn has evolved believably over time and isn't something they enter into lightly. The author nicely balances intense emotions alongside numerous steamy sexual interludes in a heartwrenching story full of roadblocks that ultimately culminates in a satisfying conclusion.
August 18, 2013
In Flames set me on fire. If you are looking for a romance that is bound to take the hard road, that will move you in so many ways, that will light you up with sexual tension and heat, then I definitely recommend this book.
Gracelyn is a widowed mother of two kids. She’s still close to her in laws, especially her brother in law, Matt. Even aside from the romance that comes up, I found this to be remarkable and very attractive. So often you hear about families falling apart, and this family stuck together, even after losing a member. But then you have Matt, who goes above and beyond. He helps Gracelyn constantly. Is it survivor’s guilt? Is it romantic attraction? Is he just a nice guy? Yep. All of it. Yep.
I really loved the dynamic between Gracey and Matt. Sure, the attraction they share is a bit taboo – but it feels real and sincere. It feels like it should be there. The two of them secretly harboring feelings for each other, and then acknowledging them to each other – it brought them each back to life. For that alone, I loved it. There were some times that I wanted to yell at Matt, as he was the one who drug his feet more than Gracie. However, it’s not because he didn’t care – he just cared too much.
Jessica Jayne wrote this story with a lot of heart. It’s not just an erotic romance. She has a smooth flow to the story, and its very easy to find yourself caring for the people in it. Dealing with the death of Chad has been unbearably hard on everyone. When Gracey and Matt start to heat things up it is emotional and dramatic. I just kept thinking that the guilt must be overwhelming, but at the same time – what about your own heart? If you have a chance to be happy in your life, you have to grab it. The heart just wants what it wants, ya know?
The rest of the characters in the story are a trip. I mean, you have Cheryl, who is Matt’s ex-wife. The woman is a she-dog bitch from Hell. Yeah – there is no way I liked her at all. But then to balance out that evil rotten side, you have his sister, Sarah, who is sweet and intuitive, and generous. She really was a ray of sunshine and she brought a great shot of joy into the story. The kids all play minimal parts, but then you have Matt’s parents. One of them has a difficult time with some things that come up in regard to Matt and Gracey, and you don’t know if your heart is breaking or healing. Or can it do both at the same time?
Her lips parted and his tongue swept into her mouth. She didn’t even attempt to stifle the groan that bubbled up her chest. Her legs separated, and Matt took this as an invitation. He moved his knee between her legs and pressed his erection against her hop.
“I can’t seem to get enough of you, “ he said breathless. He kissed over her jaw and down the side of her neck. “and running around in nothing but one of my undershirts is a sure-fire way to get yourself fucked, Gracey. You. Are. So. Damn. Sexy.” He gripped both her wrists in one of his hands and held her hands above her head, while his other hand snaked up her thigh and under her shirt until it found her slick pussy.
But hey, this is also an erotic romance. And that means sex. And I’m just going to say it. It’s fucking hot. These two get it on, and when they do it is ON. I loved it. 'Nuff said.
This story is going to really appeal to a wide audience. It’s dramatic and heated. The romance is to die for. It’s got a firefighter in it – and I know some of you just love that. It’s a five star read for me. I loved it to pieces.
Gracelyn is a widowed mother of two kids. She’s still close to her in laws, especially her brother in law, Matt. Even aside from the romance that comes up, I found this to be remarkable and very attractive. So often you hear about families falling apart, and this family stuck together, even after losing a member. But then you have Matt, who goes above and beyond. He helps Gracelyn constantly. Is it survivor’s guilt? Is it romantic attraction? Is he just a nice guy? Yep. All of it. Yep.
I really loved the dynamic between Gracey and Matt. Sure, the attraction they share is a bit taboo – but it feels real and sincere. It feels like it should be there. The two of them secretly harboring feelings for each other, and then acknowledging them to each other – it brought them each back to life. For that alone, I loved it. There were some times that I wanted to yell at Matt, as he was the one who drug his feet more than Gracie. However, it’s not because he didn’t care – he just cared too much.
Jessica Jayne wrote this story with a lot of heart. It’s not just an erotic romance. She has a smooth flow to the story, and its very easy to find yourself caring for the people in it. Dealing with the death of Chad has been unbearably hard on everyone. When Gracey and Matt start to heat things up it is emotional and dramatic. I just kept thinking that the guilt must be overwhelming, but at the same time – what about your own heart? If you have a chance to be happy in your life, you have to grab it. The heart just wants what it wants, ya know?
The rest of the characters in the story are a trip. I mean, you have Cheryl, who is Matt’s ex-wife. The woman is a she-dog bitch from Hell. Yeah – there is no way I liked her at all. But then to balance out that evil rotten side, you have his sister, Sarah, who is sweet and intuitive, and generous. She really was a ray of sunshine and she brought a great shot of joy into the story. The kids all play minimal parts, but then you have Matt’s parents. One of them has a difficult time with some things that come up in regard to Matt and Gracey, and you don’t know if your heart is breaking or healing. Or can it do both at the same time?
Her lips parted and his tongue swept into her mouth. She didn’t even attempt to stifle the groan that bubbled up her chest. Her legs separated, and Matt took this as an invitation. He moved his knee between her legs and pressed his erection against her hop.
“I can’t seem to get enough of you, “ he said breathless. He kissed over her jaw and down the side of her neck. “and running around in nothing but one of my undershirts is a sure-fire way to get yourself fucked, Gracey. You. Are. So. Damn. Sexy.” He gripped both her wrists in one of his hands and held her hands above her head, while his other hand snaked up her thigh and under her shirt until it found her slick pussy.
But hey, this is also an erotic romance. And that means sex. And I’m just going to say it. It’s fucking hot. These two get it on, and when they do it is ON. I loved it. 'Nuff said.
This story is going to really appeal to a wide audience. It’s dramatic and heated. The romance is to die for. It’s got a firefighter in it – and I know some of you just love that. It’s a five star read for me. I loved it to pieces.
February 14, 2020
This one just wasn't really my cup of tea. I normally love angsty sad books with grief filled characters...that's what I was expecting out of this story. It fell totally flat though, in my opinion. I didn't believe their connection and chemistry, and also didn't really feel their grief. The book kind of started out as a sexathon, and I needed more than just sex scenes to get me invested in the story.
One more minor thing, I listened to the audiobook, and while Joe Arden is one of my favorite narrators, something bothered me with the narration. Joe would say the female main character's name where it sounded like 2 separate names...Grace Lyn. The female narrator pronounced it all as 1 name together, Gracelyn. It sounds minor, but the difference was really off putting to me.
One more minor thing, I listened to the audiobook, and while Joe Arden is one of my favorite narrators, something bothered me with the narration. Joe would say the female main character's name where it sounded like 2 separate names...Grace Lyn. The female narrator pronounced it all as 1 name together, Gracelyn. It sounds minor, but the difference was really off putting to me.
August 27, 2013
*Book provided by publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Originally posted on Adria's Romance Reviews
Thank you to Liz from Fictional Candy for bringing In Flames to my attention. Proof that bloggers and reviewers do help authors spread the word about their books.
Jessica Jayne is the first new contemporary author I've tried in about a year. I am hesitant to pick up unknown authors because of the latest trends in romance. I didn't want to find myself with a book that had a weakling heroine and an over the top controling a-hole for a hero. That just doesn't work for me.
But In Flames really worked for me. It had the right amount of drama, tension, humor, romance and yes, sex to make it an enjoyable read for me. When Matt and Gracelyn find themselves physically attracted to one another it just complicates an already delicate situation. She's his sister-in-law, the widow of his dead brother who was the golden child in their parents' eyes. They see Matt as the son who was only separated from his wife before he started sleeping with women, the one who wouldn't make his marriage work. I felt for him. As someone who comes from a background where "favorites" are chosen, it's not a great feeling either way. He's a good man yet no one but Gracelyn seems to notice.
I do like a bit of family drama in my romances and In Flames delivered without drowning out the romance with ridiculous, over done theatrics. Author Jessica Jayne knew when to keep the tension going and when to wrap up the conflict. I didn't feel like she was wasting my time with a story that was just one whiny moment after another. Matt and Gracelyn did have a lot to think about. While at times they acted like martyrs that were prepared to fall on the symbolic sword and sacrifice their second chance at happiness for the sake of every one else's peace of mind, they didn't complain or whine about it.
Now I bet you're wondering, what about the sex scenes? What rating would you give them? I know that's what I would be asking! Gracelyn doesn't beat around the bush, she's quick to make the first move (You go girl!) and while Matt is initially hesitant, it doesn't last long and then *boom* it's a few degrees hotter! Not once, not twice, not even three times, it's like a competition to see who is more insatiable throughout the entire book.
Matt may be the man but Gracelyn's no slouch either and I loved how sexually confident she was! I especially loved that Gracey wasn't some goody too shoes, wannabe saint of a widow. She had needs and she definitely let Matt know, she didn't shy away from swearing or going after Matt on her own. I loved that. Just because she was a widow and a mom doesn't mean she stopped being a woman.
Overall, I really enjoyed In Flames and if you're looking for a romance that has two flawed but likable characters who have A-M-A-Z-I-N-G sexual chemistry, then definitely pick up this book!
Originally posted on Adria's Romance Reviews
Thank you to Liz from Fictional Candy for bringing In Flames to my attention. Proof that bloggers and reviewers do help authors spread the word about their books.
Jessica Jayne is the first new contemporary author I've tried in about a year. I am hesitant to pick up unknown authors because of the latest trends in romance. I didn't want to find myself with a book that had a weakling heroine and an over the top controling a-hole for a hero. That just doesn't work for me.
But In Flames really worked for me. It had the right amount of drama, tension, humor, romance and yes, sex to make it an enjoyable read for me. When Matt and Gracelyn find themselves physically attracted to one another it just complicates an already delicate situation. She's his sister-in-law, the widow of his dead brother who was the golden child in their parents' eyes. They see Matt as the son who was only separated from his wife before he started sleeping with women, the one who wouldn't make his marriage work. I felt for him. As someone who comes from a background where "favorites" are chosen, it's not a great feeling either way. He's a good man yet no one but Gracelyn seems to notice.
I do like a bit of family drama in my romances and In Flames delivered without drowning out the romance with ridiculous, over done theatrics. Author Jessica Jayne knew when to keep the tension going and when to wrap up the conflict. I didn't feel like she was wasting my time with a story that was just one whiny moment after another. Matt and Gracelyn did have a lot to think about. While at times they acted like martyrs that were prepared to fall on the symbolic sword and sacrifice their second chance at happiness for the sake of every one else's peace of mind, they didn't complain or whine about it.
Now I bet you're wondering, what about the sex scenes? What rating would you give them? I know that's what I would be asking! Gracelyn doesn't beat around the bush, she's quick to make the first move (You go girl!) and while Matt is initially hesitant, it doesn't last long and then *boom* it's a few degrees hotter! Not once, not twice, not even three times, it's like a competition to see who is more insatiable throughout the entire book.
Matt may be the man but Gracelyn's no slouch either and I loved how sexually confident she was! I especially loved that Gracey wasn't some goody too shoes, wannabe saint of a widow. She had needs and she definitely let Matt know, she didn't shy away from swearing or going after Matt on her own. I loved that. Just because she was a widow and a mom doesn't mean she stopped being a woman.
Overall, I really enjoyed In Flames and if you're looking for a romance that has two flawed but likable characters who have A-M-A-Z-I-N-G sexual chemistry, then definitely pick up this book!
June 18, 2018
In Flames by Jessica Jayne is a hot little romance about forbidden love that I consumed in a single sitting. On a scale of one to ten, the steam factor was definitely a eight. With engaging characters and its delicious romance, this offers a late night read that will more than satisfy. Three word review: hot, hot, hot.
Gracelyn married firefighter Chad and knew the risks, but together they created a family until things went south and she asked for a trial separation. In the interim Chad lost his life in a fire that went terribly wrong, leaving her widowed with two young children. Matt Riley, Chad’s brother, also a firefighter was there that devastating day and it took several firefighters holding him back from going in after his brother. Survivors’ guilt has all but crushed him, but his friendship with Gracelyn and helping her cope has saved the two of them. They have become best friends and held each other. On the one year anniversary of Chad’s death, they turn to each other for support and find something more but will it turn their world upside down?
Matt and Gracelyn are both lovable characters and Jayne does an excellent job of fleshing them out and sharing their raw emotions with us. Their love of family, Chad and their children is evident. They have established a strong friendship and depend on each other for support. As passion takes over they struggle to do the right thing, and you cannot help but feel for them. Family, friends, and Ex’s all add to the tale making the drama and tension feel surreal.
In Flames is a powerful romance filled with emotion and sizzling scenes that scorch the pages as you read them. Jayne did a wonderful job of sharing this couple’s emotions from the passion to the guilt. I love forbidden romances and from the beginning despite the odds I wanted this couple to have their happily ever-after. Drama, tension and heat, held me captive. The family dynamics and drama felt realistic as did their struggles. The sexual tension and driving passion was hot, and I laughed as they tried to be rational, make plans and then get caught up in each other all over again. The sex scenes were incredibly hot, and I loved when Gracelyn made the first moves. The scenes were raw and filled with passion and emotion. The chemistry was amazing and the storyline believable. I loved that we got both perspectives and that it developed from friendship. In Flames left me well satisfied and dreaming of firefighters…oh-la-la.
Fans of smoking hot romances, with fleshed out characters will want to add In Flames to their reading list. Jessica Jayne knows how to write hot adult contemporaries, and I look forward to reading more of her work.
Copy was gifted and did not influence review and originally published @ Caffeinated Book Reviewer
Gracelyn married firefighter Chad and knew the risks, but together they created a family until things went south and she asked for a trial separation. In the interim Chad lost his life in a fire that went terribly wrong, leaving her widowed with two young children. Matt Riley, Chad’s brother, also a firefighter was there that devastating day and it took several firefighters holding him back from going in after his brother. Survivors’ guilt has all but crushed him, but his friendship with Gracelyn and helping her cope has saved the two of them. They have become best friends and held each other. On the one year anniversary of Chad’s death, they turn to each other for support and find something more but will it turn their world upside down?
Matt and Gracelyn are both lovable characters and Jayne does an excellent job of fleshing them out and sharing their raw emotions with us. Their love of family, Chad and their children is evident. They have established a strong friendship and depend on each other for support. As passion takes over they struggle to do the right thing, and you cannot help but feel for them. Family, friends, and Ex’s all add to the tale making the drama and tension feel surreal.
In Flames is a powerful romance filled with emotion and sizzling scenes that scorch the pages as you read them. Jayne did a wonderful job of sharing this couple’s emotions from the passion to the guilt. I love forbidden romances and from the beginning despite the odds I wanted this couple to have their happily ever-after. Drama, tension and heat, held me captive. The family dynamics and drama felt realistic as did their struggles. The sexual tension and driving passion was hot, and I laughed as they tried to be rational, make plans and then get caught up in each other all over again. The sex scenes were incredibly hot, and I loved when Gracelyn made the first moves. The scenes were raw and filled with passion and emotion. The chemistry was amazing and the storyline believable. I loved that we got both perspectives and that it developed from friendship. In Flames left me well satisfied and dreaming of firefighters…oh-la-la.
Fans of smoking hot romances, with fleshed out characters will want to add In Flames to their reading list. Jessica Jayne knows how to write hot adult contemporaries, and I look forward to reading more of her work.
Copy was gifted and did not influence review and originally published @ Caffeinated Book Reviewer
March 31, 2015
Ahh how can you not love firefighters? Or a forbidden romance between two people who are absolutely meant to be? In Flames was a hot little read about two people grieving a mutual loss and finding love and healing in the arms of someone unexpected and slightly unconventional.
It's been a year since Gracelyn lost her husband-Matt's brother- to a fire. Emotions are high and life is hard but finding comfort with each other seems as natural as breathing. Gracelyn and Matt. I loved these two. You can see how much they care about each other. How close they are and how ingrained they are in each others every day lives. I really enjoyed seeing them each change as the story went along and how they struggled with the undeniable desire to start a relationship that would cause turmoil with their friends and families because it's just a little, I don't know, taboo? The whole sleeping with your brother's wife thing-- even though she's a widow.
And yeah the sex scenes were nice. Passionate and sexy and emotional. Things heat up very quickly but it worked since they've known each other for so long already.
All together I really enjoyed In Flames. Gracelyn and Matt's story pulled at my heart and flew by very quickly. I was definitely rooting on their unique relationship and more than once wanted to jump in and defend them against the world. I think Jayne is an author to keep your eye on. She's got a lot of potential and with a little polishing to make dialogue flow a little more smoothly will be a real knockout with the emotionally charged stories she brings to life. I'm definitely looking forward to seeing where she'll go from here.
Reviewed for herding cats & burning soup
It's been a year since Gracelyn lost her husband-Matt's brother- to a fire. Emotions are high and life is hard but finding comfort with each other seems as natural as breathing. Gracelyn and Matt. I loved these two. You can see how much they care about each other. How close they are and how ingrained they are in each others every day lives. I really enjoyed seeing them each change as the story went along and how they struggled with the undeniable desire to start a relationship that would cause turmoil with their friends and families because it's just a little, I don't know, taboo? The whole sleeping with your brother's wife thing-- even though she's a widow.
And yeah the sex scenes were nice. Passionate and sexy and emotional. Things heat up very quickly but it worked since they've known each other for so long already.
All together I really enjoyed In Flames. Gracelyn and Matt's story pulled at my heart and flew by very quickly. I was definitely rooting on their unique relationship and more than once wanted to jump in and defend them against the world. I think Jayne is an author to keep your eye on. She's got a lot of potential and with a little polishing to make dialogue flow a little more smoothly will be a real knockout with the emotionally charged stories she brings to life. I'm definitely looking forward to seeing where she'll go from here.
Reviewed for herding cats & burning soup
May 20, 2013
I have to preface this review with a confession. I am more than a little bit obsessed with all things firemen. So when I saw the blurb and the cover for this book, I already knew I was in love. And even though I already knew I was in love, Jessica BLEW me out of the water with this book. I was hooked from the start and consumed it in one sitting. Matt is the epitome of hotness and I may have had to wipe off some drool at several times throughout my read. On top of the major sexy factor this book has to offer, the story is believable. I could see the widow of a firemen finding herself in just this situation. The story follows Gracelyn Riley, the recent widow of firemen Chad Riley. Matt Riley is Chad's brother and fellow firefighter and is overwhelmed with survivor's guilt over the death of his brother. Matt and Gracelyn have supported each other over the year since Chad's death. Gracelyn's young children love their uncle and he does everything in his power to make them smile. Graceyln is still very close to Chad's family and attends weekly Sunday dinners at her in-laws house. As the emotions between Matt and Gracelyn move from grief to desire, they will have to face some difficult decisions. This story had me "In Flames" and I enjoyed every second I spent with the Riley family.
From Platinum Book Reviews by Charissa Nelson
From Platinum Book Reviews by Charissa Nelson
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