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The Bachelor Firemen of San Gabriel #5
Four Weddings and a Fireman
It takes a certain kind of man to stand out among the Bachelor Firemen of San Gabriel. Firefighter Derek "Vader" Brown is one of a kind—six feet of solid muscle with the heart of a born hero. It's that protective streak that has him pursuing a promotion to Captain to pay for his mother's home care. And it's why he intends to figure out why his sometime girlfriend Cherie Harper runs hot as hellfire one minute and pushes him away the next. Cherie's got it bad. Vader sweeps her off her feet—literally—and their chemistry is combustible. There's just the little problem of a nightmare from her past she was desperate to escape. And then her sister Trixie arrives, causing havoc for Cherie and the male population of San Gabriel. Cherie doesn't want her past to complicate Vader's life or his career. But there's nothing like a firefighter to break through all your defenses, one smoldering kiss at a time . . .
384 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published February 25, 2014
34 people are currently reading
810 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer Bernard
88 books1,382 followersJennifer Bernard is a USA Today bestselling author of contemporary romance. Her books have been called “an irresistible reading experience” full of “quick wit and sizzling love scenes.” A graduate of Harvard and former news promo producer, she left big city life in Los Angeles for true love in Alaska, where she now lives with her husband and stepdaughters. She still hasn’t adjusted to the cold, so most often she can be found cuddling with her laptop and a cup of tea. No stranger to book success, she also writes erotic novellas under a naughty secret name that she’s happy to share with the curious.
You can connect with Jennifer online at http://JenniferBernard.net or email her at Jen@JenniferBernard.net.
You can connect with Jennifer online at http://JenniferBernard.net or email her at Jen@JenniferBernard.net.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews
June 4, 2015
DNF. Read 94 pages, then jumped to the end.
Cherie and Vader are madly in love. He proposes twice but she refuses. She won’t tell him why. The reason is primarily because she promised someone something. That promise did not make sense to me to justify not telling him - to justify living her life without the man she loves. I just can’t read an entire book whose plot is based on that.
One of the best parts of a romance novel is seeing a couple meet and watching them fall in love. That is skipped here. The book starts with his marriage proposal. It’s not that I require the early relationship part for all books, but skipping it did not help.
DATA:
Narrative mode: 3rd person. Story length: 367 pages. Swearing language: strong including religious swear words. Sexual language: strong. Setting: current day mostly San Gabriel, Calif plus Las Vegas, Nevada. Copyright: 2014. Genre: contemporary romance.
Cherie and Vader are madly in love. He proposes twice but she refuses. She won’t tell him why. The reason is primarily because she promised someone something. That promise did not make sense to me to justify not telling him - to justify living her life without the man she loves. I just can’t read an entire book whose plot is based on that.
One of the best parts of a romance novel is seeing a couple meet and watching them fall in love. That is skipped here. The book starts with his marriage proposal. It’s not that I require the early relationship part for all books, but skipping it did not help.
DATA:
Narrative mode: 3rd person. Story length: 367 pages. Swearing language: strong including religious swear words. Sexual language: strong. Setting: current day mostly San Gabriel, Calif plus Las Vegas, Nevada. Copyright: 2014. Genre: contemporary romance.
September 19, 2015
This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance
Summary
Derek "Vader" Brown is a unique Bachelor of the Firemen of San Gabriel. He isn't your typical fire fighter and he knows it and so does everyone who has ever met Vader. Vader is spirited and wild at times but is honorable and loyal to a fault. Vader is also in love with his 'sometimes' girlfriend Cherie. There are times he thinks they are on the right track and then other times he wonders who Cherie really is and why she is holding back from him. Cherie Harper hasn't had it easy. She and her brother had to run away from home, and they have started a new life for themselves. But Cherie knows that no matter how much she cared for Vader she can never marry him, even though there is a big part of her that wants to. Cherie is truly herself when she is with Vader and it breaks her heart to hurt him. When Cherie's sister Trixie comes to town, things get a little crazy for Vader and Cherie, and soon Cherie will have to decide who she can really trust and will Vader still love her when he knows the full truth?
The Hero
Derek Brown or also known as "Vader" is quite unique. He doesn't hide who he is and is blunt and bold and says exactly what is on his mind. Vader is a character I have been so anxious to read ever since I was first introduced to this series in the first book. Vader is quite a sexual being and doesn't hide that fact from ANYONE. He is probably the most amusing out of all the firefighters. But in this story we see a deeper side to Vader. The side I have been looking for. Vader is in love with a woman that has turned down marriage proposals, but that doesn't keep him fully away. Vader is also trying to become Captain and taking care of his mother. And whew...the relationship he has with his mother is so amazing and heartwarming. Vader is so much more than he lets everyone think. He may be rambunctious and crazy at times, but he is also giving and compassionate and quite the protector. He has the whole true hero qualities, he has charisma and is charming. And the moment you meet Vader...you can't help but love him instantly.
The Heroine
Cherie Harper is a heroine that is between a rock and a hard place and you see how much she is struggling with that. She came from a family that lives in the country, true hicks, but her father is downright crazy when it comes to religion. She grew up in a home with very strict rules. What we see in this story of her family life is so bizarre and I can totally understand her running away. Cherie and her brother made a pact of secrecy and they can't risk her father or his "friend" finding her or it could mean giving up the life she has found in San Gabriel. Cherie is a heroine that is independent and passionate, but doesn't know how to accept help when its needed. She can be prideful and stubborn. What I really enjoyed about her character was seeing how she develops in this story. She begins to learn the meaning of trust, especially in a romantic relationship.
Plot and Story Line
Four Weddings and a Fireman was quite the story, and out of all the books that I have read so far, I think this one is one of my favorites. I really love how unique each book is, which various circumstances. Normally I am not a fan of big "secrets" in books, but this one seemed to work for me, even though I felt it dragged a bit in the end there. But I really loved this book overall. And oh boy the humor was just fantastic. I just couldn't stop laughing in so many moments of the story. Over the previous books, we have seen Vader and Cherie's relationship and a bit. This book starts out with them pretty serious in their commitment, and the beginning or the end of their relationship. Vader is mad for Cherie and wants to marry her. But when you get turned down twice, it tends to affect you. Vader decides to focus on his studies to become Captain and helping his mother. What is the turning point is Trixie's arrival and the havoc she brings. And boy is she a bit wild and energetic at times and I really loved how she brings Vader and Cherie together. What was most fascinating about this story, was seeing mystery and a hint of danger due to Cherie's past. I really couldn't get enough of seeing Vader and Cherie working through the tough issues of their relationship. It felt so "normal" and I felt like I could relate with them so easily. The chemistry between these two is quite hot and even at times when they aren't together emotionally....they sure have a connection physically. No problems there. I found this book to be highly entertaining and comical with a hint of seriousness to it.
The Cover
LOVE this cover. I do love those sweet romantic poses and this one is so dang good. Love the male behind, and that dress is so pretty.
Overall View
Four Weddings and a Fireman is a sensational contemporary love story that brings together two people in trust, love, intrigue, a spot of danger and some entertaining rides. Amusing and romantic.
Summary
Derek "Vader" Brown is a unique Bachelor of the Firemen of San Gabriel. He isn't your typical fire fighter and he knows it and so does everyone who has ever met Vader. Vader is spirited and wild at times but is honorable and loyal to a fault. Vader is also in love with his 'sometimes' girlfriend Cherie. There are times he thinks they are on the right track and then other times he wonders who Cherie really is and why she is holding back from him. Cherie Harper hasn't had it easy. She and her brother had to run away from home, and they have started a new life for themselves. But Cherie knows that no matter how much she cared for Vader she can never marry him, even though there is a big part of her that wants to. Cherie is truly herself when she is with Vader and it breaks her heart to hurt him. When Cherie's sister Trixie comes to town, things get a little crazy for Vader and Cherie, and soon Cherie will have to decide who she can really trust and will Vader still love her when he knows the full truth?
The Hero
Derek Brown or also known as "Vader" is quite unique. He doesn't hide who he is and is blunt and bold and says exactly what is on his mind. Vader is a character I have been so anxious to read ever since I was first introduced to this series in the first book. Vader is quite a sexual being and doesn't hide that fact from ANYONE. He is probably the most amusing out of all the firefighters. But in this story we see a deeper side to Vader. The side I have been looking for. Vader is in love with a woman that has turned down marriage proposals, but that doesn't keep him fully away. Vader is also trying to become Captain and taking care of his mother. And whew...the relationship he has with his mother is so amazing and heartwarming. Vader is so much more than he lets everyone think. He may be rambunctious and crazy at times, but he is also giving and compassionate and quite the protector. He has the whole true hero qualities, he has charisma and is charming. And the moment you meet Vader...you can't help but love him instantly.
The Heroine
Cherie Harper is a heroine that is between a rock and a hard place and you see how much she is struggling with that. She came from a family that lives in the country, true hicks, but her father is downright crazy when it comes to religion. She grew up in a home with very strict rules. What we see in this story of her family life is so bizarre and I can totally understand her running away. Cherie and her brother made a pact of secrecy and they can't risk her father or his "friend" finding her or it could mean giving up the life she has found in San Gabriel. Cherie is a heroine that is independent and passionate, but doesn't know how to accept help when its needed. She can be prideful and stubborn. What I really enjoyed about her character was seeing how she develops in this story. She begins to learn the meaning of trust, especially in a romantic relationship.
Plot and Story Line
Four Weddings and a Fireman was quite the story, and out of all the books that I have read so far, I think this one is one of my favorites. I really love how unique each book is, which various circumstances. Normally I am not a fan of big "secrets" in books, but this one seemed to work for me, even though I felt it dragged a bit in the end there. But I really loved this book overall. And oh boy the humor was just fantastic. I just couldn't stop laughing in so many moments of the story. Over the previous books, we have seen Vader and Cherie's relationship and a bit. This book starts out with them pretty serious in their commitment, and the beginning or the end of their relationship. Vader is mad for Cherie and wants to marry her. But when you get turned down twice, it tends to affect you. Vader decides to focus on his studies to become Captain and helping his mother. What is the turning point is Trixie's arrival and the havoc she brings. And boy is she a bit wild and energetic at times and I really loved how she brings Vader and Cherie together. What was most fascinating about this story, was seeing mystery and a hint of danger due to Cherie's past. I really couldn't get enough of seeing Vader and Cherie working through the tough issues of their relationship. It felt so "normal" and I felt like I could relate with them so easily. The chemistry between these two is quite hot and even at times when they aren't together emotionally....they sure have a connection physically. No problems there. I found this book to be highly entertaining and comical with a hint of seriousness to it.
The Cover
LOVE this cover. I do love those sweet romantic poses and this one is so dang good. Love the male behind, and that dress is so pretty.
Overall View
Four Weddings and a Fireman is a sensational contemporary love story that brings together two people in trust, love, intrigue, a spot of danger and some entertaining rides. Amusing and romantic.
March 11, 2020
Four Weddings and a Fireman is a cute romance novel that packs a punch!
I love weddings. I love firemen. This book seemed like a natural fit when I found it at a clearance book center. Unfortunately, this book was not made for me. It's still a very good book - it's full of romance, angst, drama and hilarity - it's just not my cup of tea.
Cherie and Vader are a pretty unique couple. She doesn't want to commit (he proposed twice) yet he's totally obsessed with her. Every few pages we hear how hot Vader is (well, his body. Maybe not him) and we see Cherie discuss how she doesn't want to be with him but does want to be with him. It's like a game of romantic cat and mouse, but it takes almost 400 pages to get somewhere with it.
I had not read the previous books, so I didn't get to see the build up of any of the relationships. That's my bad, I picked up the 5th book at the store and they didn't have the previous four. I think this book would have gone over a pinch better with me if I had been able to see everything that had happened previously. How did these two fall in love? It seemed simply they were already 75% of the way into the relationship and I was missing a lot.
Cherie has a tough and interesting back story that I found super hard to follow. That's part of the reason why I wish I read the previous books. Had this been discussed earlier? How is her life so wild? It seems like she was in a cult, and her 12 siblings all have really weird names. It was just so strange to learn about this like halfway through the novel. I felt blind-sided and super confused. It did make a lot of sense on why she is the way she is, but it just seemed so over the top for me, personally.
Honestly, this book felt like a giant mixed bag of drama and emotions. This felt like a Hallmark movie on steroids that was born from a Soap Opera and a Hollywood Gossip Magazine. I was at a point where I wanted to DNF this book because I knew I wasn't going to enjoy it (that was about halfway through), but I wanted to finish this book. I do think it's a great dramatic read for people who wants lots and lots of drama.
My biggest pro of this book is the cover. My goodness, that's what drew me in. The synopsis was great, the title was cool but the cover is just absolutely stunning.
Overall, this will be a hit for some people! It's dramatic, has lots of crazy, insane plot lines and has a good amount of romance. It's just not for me!
One out of five stars.
I love weddings. I love firemen. This book seemed like a natural fit when I found it at a clearance book center. Unfortunately, this book was not made for me. It's still a very good book - it's full of romance, angst, drama and hilarity - it's just not my cup of tea.
Cherie and Vader are a pretty unique couple. She doesn't want to commit (he proposed twice) yet he's totally obsessed with her. Every few pages we hear how hot Vader is (well, his body. Maybe not him) and we see Cherie discuss how she doesn't want to be with him but does want to be with him. It's like a game of romantic cat and mouse, but it takes almost 400 pages to get somewhere with it.
I had not read the previous books, so I didn't get to see the build up of any of the relationships. That's my bad, I picked up the 5th book at the store and they didn't have the previous four. I think this book would have gone over a pinch better with me if I had been able to see everything that had happened previously. How did these two fall in love? It seemed simply they were already 75% of the way into the relationship and I was missing a lot.
Cherie has a tough and interesting back story that I found super hard to follow. That's part of the reason why I wish I read the previous books. Had this been discussed earlier? How is her life so wild? It seems like she was in a cult, and her 12 siblings all have really weird names. It was just so strange to learn about this like halfway through the novel. I felt blind-sided and super confused. It did make a lot of sense on why she is the way she is, but it just seemed so over the top for me, personally.
Honestly, this book felt like a giant mixed bag of drama and emotions. This felt like a Hallmark movie on steroids that was born from a Soap Opera and a Hollywood Gossip Magazine. I was at a point where I wanted to DNF this book because I knew I wasn't going to enjoy it (that was about halfway through), but I wanted to finish this book. I do think it's a great dramatic read for people who wants lots and lots of drama.
My biggest pro of this book is the cover. My goodness, that's what drew me in. The synopsis was great, the title was cool but the cover is just absolutely stunning.
Overall, this will be a hit for some people! It's dramatic, has lots of crazy, insane plot lines and has a good amount of romance. It's just not for me!
One out of five stars.
November 27, 2015
I've been waiting to read Vader's story and it was definitely worth the wait. In previous books, Vader has been the fun loving one, a bit of a clown, and frequently up to mischief. In this book, we discover that there is more to Vader than meets the eye.
Vader and his girlfriend Cherie have an on-again, off-again relationship. Vader is in love with her and wants her to marry him. Bu every time things start to get serious between them, Cherie pulls back. She tells him she cares, but she doesn't want marriage. He's really tempted to just end the relationship entirely out of frustration, but he can't picture his life without Cherie in it. Cherie is just as much in love with Vader, but she's got trouble in her past that she doesn't want to inflict on him. When her sister Trixie unexpectedly arrives in San Gabriel, that trouble isn't far behind.
I loved Vader. He's always been a fun character, and getting to know him better just made me love him more. Though he's always been the fun guy to his fellow firemen, he has another life that none of them know about. He has been responsible for his handicapped mother since he was fourteen and his father walked out on them. He hasn't told his friends about her because he doesn't want anyone looking at him with pity, but it also means that he has no backup when he needs help. I loved his relationship with his mom. It was loving, but also real, as he had to deal with her opinion of his girlfriend, her desire to see him married, and the complications of taking care of her. Add in his crazy relationship with Cherie and the last thing he needs is more to do. Then someone suggests that he try out for a promotion to Captain and he seriously considers it. It's going to take some serious study time, plus a revamping of his reputation, but it can be done.
I liked Cherie, too. She's strong and independent, and has made something of herself. She grew up in rural Arkansas in a family of thirteen kids, with a seriously whacko father. She and her older brother made their escape, leaving trouble behind them, but always afraid that it would catch up with them. She hasn't told anyone about her past, even Vader. She shares her house with two friends of her brother's, musicians who feel that it is their job to protect Cherie from guys like Vader. Cherie has a tendency to mother them, but she also doesn't let them really interfere in her life. When her sister arrives, Cherie's life becomes even more chaotic, as she tries to keep Trixie out of trouble too.
The relationship between Vader and Cherie is complicated, mostly because of their unwillingness to share their secrets. Vader is so afraid of being pitied that he shuts out the very people who care the most for him. Likewise, if she would just share her past with Vader, she would discover that it isn't as dire as she believes, When a fire at his house brings his worlds crashing together, Vader discovers that far from being pitied, he is admired for his dedication. I loved seeing how it is Cherie that steps in to help Vader and his mother, and how helping them ends up helping her. It was sweet to see Vader's mom helping Cherie deal with her sister. When the truth about Cherie's past finally comes out, Vader is unhappy about not being told before, but his protectiveness and love for Cherie really come to the forefront. Once all the secrets are out, Vader and Cherie can finally look at that future they want together.
As always with the Firemen books, there are places that are laugh out loud funny and others that are truly heartwarming. I loved seeing Cherie teach Vader the tango, and the resulting steam. Some of the antics that Vader and his fellow firefighters get up to are hysterical, such as the episode with the firepole at the bar. Vader and Cherie try to deal with Trixie and the trouble she gets into, with mixed results. There were times when I wondered if she was really that naive, or if she was playing them for her own reasons. The ending was really good with an interesting twist involving their brother. I loved how Vader came through for everyone when trouble showed up, showing that he's much more capable than even he believed.
Vader and his girlfriend Cherie have an on-again, off-again relationship. Vader is in love with her and wants her to marry him. Bu every time things start to get serious between them, Cherie pulls back. She tells him she cares, but she doesn't want marriage. He's really tempted to just end the relationship entirely out of frustration, but he can't picture his life without Cherie in it. Cherie is just as much in love with Vader, but she's got trouble in her past that she doesn't want to inflict on him. When her sister Trixie unexpectedly arrives in San Gabriel, that trouble isn't far behind.
I loved Vader. He's always been a fun character, and getting to know him better just made me love him more. Though he's always been the fun guy to his fellow firemen, he has another life that none of them know about. He has been responsible for his handicapped mother since he was fourteen and his father walked out on them. He hasn't told his friends about her because he doesn't want anyone looking at him with pity, but it also means that he has no backup when he needs help. I loved his relationship with his mom. It was loving, but also real, as he had to deal with her opinion of his girlfriend, her desire to see him married, and the complications of taking care of her. Add in his crazy relationship with Cherie and the last thing he needs is more to do. Then someone suggests that he try out for a promotion to Captain and he seriously considers it. It's going to take some serious study time, plus a revamping of his reputation, but it can be done.
I liked Cherie, too. She's strong and independent, and has made something of herself. She grew up in rural Arkansas in a family of thirteen kids, with a seriously whacko father. She and her older brother made their escape, leaving trouble behind them, but always afraid that it would catch up with them. She hasn't told anyone about her past, even Vader. She shares her house with two friends of her brother's, musicians who feel that it is their job to protect Cherie from guys like Vader. Cherie has a tendency to mother them, but she also doesn't let them really interfere in her life. When her sister arrives, Cherie's life becomes even more chaotic, as she tries to keep Trixie out of trouble too.
The relationship between Vader and Cherie is complicated, mostly because of their unwillingness to share their secrets. Vader is so afraid of being pitied that he shuts out the very people who care the most for him. Likewise, if she would just share her past with Vader, she would discover that it isn't as dire as she believes, When a fire at his house brings his worlds crashing together, Vader discovers that far from being pitied, he is admired for his dedication. I loved seeing how it is Cherie that steps in to help Vader and his mother, and how helping them ends up helping her. It was sweet to see Vader's mom helping Cherie deal with her sister. When the truth about Cherie's past finally comes out, Vader is unhappy about not being told before, but his protectiveness and love for Cherie really come to the forefront. Once all the secrets are out, Vader and Cherie can finally look at that future they want together.
As always with the Firemen books, there are places that are laugh out loud funny and others that are truly heartwarming. I loved seeing Cherie teach Vader the tango, and the resulting steam. Some of the antics that Vader and his fellow firefighters get up to are hysterical, such as the episode with the firepole at the bar. Vader and Cherie try to deal with Trixie and the trouble she gets into, with mixed results. There were times when I wondered if she was really that naive, or if she was playing them for her own reasons. The ending was really good with an interesting twist involving their brother. I loved how Vader came through for everyone when trouble showed up, showing that he's much more capable than even he believed.
November 19, 2014
Kitty‘s review posted on Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews
5 STARS
Jennifer Bernard is one hell of a writer whose Bachelor Firemen series is off the charts sexy, funny and full of hot firemen waiting to break the curse.
Vader and Cherie’s story is no different.
Vader, the strong, handsome firefighter has a soft, sentimental side – especially at weddings. He’s in love with Cherie and can’t imagine why she keeps turning down his proposals. Can it be because he pops the question whenever he attends a wedding, when he’s feeling sentimental, when he’s a little tipsy? Or, is there another reason why Cherie keeps putting him off and hurting him? But, in the same vein, he’s keeping a secret from Cherie so how could he expect her to give herself completely to him without knowing the truth.
Cherie has her own secrets. A past that she has to keep hidden or face the wrath of her family. Everything implodes as her sister Trixie comes to town and all hell breaks lose. The past is finally catching up with her and she has to keep everything away from Vader. There is no way that she’ll endanger the love of her life … the one man that she would spend forever with.
As everything comes crashing down around Cherie and Trixie, they realize that Vader and the members of the San Gabriel Fire Department are not only hero’s at the time of a fire but when hearts are on the line. True love wins in the end and Vader finally has the answer that he’s wanted for a long time.
I so love the Bachelor Firemen of San Gabriel. Each story told brings a different tale about a man (or woman) that we thought we knew …. then Ms. Bernard lets lose with another side of that person giving us a different perspective of who the true man (or woman) is beneath all the brawn and bravado.
5 STARS
Jennifer Bernard is one hell of a writer whose Bachelor Firemen series is off the charts sexy, funny and full of hot firemen waiting to break the curse.
Vader and Cherie’s story is no different.
Vader, the strong, handsome firefighter has a soft, sentimental side – especially at weddings. He’s in love with Cherie and can’t imagine why she keeps turning down his proposals. Can it be because he pops the question whenever he attends a wedding, when he’s feeling sentimental, when he’s a little tipsy? Or, is there another reason why Cherie keeps putting him off and hurting him? But, in the same vein, he’s keeping a secret from Cherie so how could he expect her to give herself completely to him without knowing the truth.
Cherie has her own secrets. A past that she has to keep hidden or face the wrath of her family. Everything implodes as her sister Trixie comes to town and all hell breaks lose. The past is finally catching up with her and she has to keep everything away from Vader. There is no way that she’ll endanger the love of her life … the one man that she would spend forever with.
As everything comes crashing down around Cherie and Trixie, they realize that Vader and the members of the San Gabriel Fire Department are not only hero’s at the time of a fire but when hearts are on the line. True love wins in the end and Vader finally has the answer that he’s wanted for a long time.
I so love the Bachelor Firemen of San Gabriel. Each story told brings a different tale about a man (or woman) that we thought we knew …. then Ms. Bernard lets lose with another side of that person giving us a different perspective of who the true man (or woman) is beneath all the brawn and bravado.
March 2, 2014
Holy WOW... I adore this series, and I've been not so patiently waiting for Vaders book and Jennifer Bernard went above and beyond! First I have to say that Jennifer didn't shy away from subjects that some may not normally want to write about, but she did so in such a respectful way that it wove itself so well into the story. Vader has been head over heels in love with Cherie since almost the moment they met. He also has quite a few secrets. One that he may play hard and act like a party guy but he's a soft romantic at heart. Cherie is also hiding some big secrets as well and she's holding back from Vader. At times I wanted to smack both of them, but as the story unfolded you begin to realize that things are not always roses and sunshine.
I can't wait to see what the Bachelor Fireman of San Gabriel get into next!
I can't wait to see what the Bachelor Fireman of San Gabriel get into next!
April 2, 2014
I have been waiting (rather impatiently) for Vader's story. I'm ecstatic to say he was worth the wait! I love the bigness of his character and Ms. Bernard gave him a story to match. Nothing else would have fit his extreme muscular hunkiness. I love Cheri and all her quirks. And the addition of Cheri's sister was just a hoot!
July 12, 2016
ORIGINAL POST: http://fangswandsandfairydust.com/201...
FOUR WEDDINGS AND A FIREMAN Secrets Kept, Love Lost?
DISCLOSURE: E-Galley provided by publisher via Edelweiss. No remuneration was exchanged and all opinions presented herein are my own except as noted.
It’s funny, I was introduced to Jennifer Bernard’s Bachelor Firemen series about this time last year when Readaholics Anonymous and I did a Valentine’s Day Blog site. One of our guests was Jennifer and though I hadn’t read her yet, it brought her work to my attention on one of the reader services I use.
The Bachelor Firemen series is sweet and sexy, funny and sometimes a little sad, not ten boxes of tissue sad but certainly a couple double ply sheets. More often it’s funny an romantic.
The Bachelor Firemen series is sweet and sexy, funny and sometimes a little sad, not ten boxes of tissue sad but certainly a couple double ply sheets. This particular story brings us Vader story with his on-again-off-again true love Cherie. I’ve always seen Vader as a not terribly bright, body builder. And Cherie was a bit of a dimbo. But, I think I was wrong. They are more sweet and down to earth characters than unintelligent. I can’t say they are simple because they have incredibly complex secrets they are keeping form all of their friends.
The story is charming, sweet, and a farcical tale of secret identities and living situations. I think it is meant as such, like a farcical stage play (Lend Me A Tenor and Shakespeare’s A Comedy of Errors come to mind). But we also get some drama and danger. The secrets are strangely kept ones, like Derek not telling anyone he is the primary caregiver for his mother. I would that Vader could keep that secret among his fellow firefighters hard to believe. And Cherie’s is really hard to believe. But, farce requires that the errors are just a little too ridiculous and it makes for madcap antics and if true love can find its way through it then Vader and Cherie will have weathered enough trauma to be sure they are meant for each other.
The sex is more romantic than graphic, and it doesn’t overwhelm the story.
I keep wondering who’s next in the station to get a book as the fire station is losing its bachelors and their curse as they each find love and the curse is debunked.
I enjoyed this one, while at the same time I thought it got a little silly. But, the characters are young and while they are leading these lives complicated by their secrets their motivations and desires are really simple and heartfelt. Silly is kind of necessary in our lives, and Jennifer makes it work because it suits the characters and the stories. Love the series and this book! If you love lighthearted, sexy reads this is HIGHLY RECOMMENDED. It could stand alone, but works even better as a part of the series.
FOUR WEDDINGS AND A FIREMAN Secrets Kept, Love Lost?
DISCLOSURE: E-Galley provided by publisher via Edelweiss. No remuneration was exchanged and all opinions presented herein are my own except as noted.
It’s funny, I was introduced to Jennifer Bernard’s Bachelor Firemen series about this time last year when Readaholics Anonymous and I did a Valentine’s Day Blog site. One of our guests was Jennifer and though I hadn’t read her yet, it brought her work to my attention on one of the reader services I use.
The Bachelor Firemen series is sweet and sexy, funny and sometimes a little sad, not ten boxes of tissue sad but certainly a couple double ply sheets. More often it’s funny an romantic.
The Bachelor Firemen series is sweet and sexy, funny and sometimes a little sad, not ten boxes of tissue sad but certainly a couple double ply sheets. This particular story brings us Vader story with his on-again-off-again true love Cherie. I’ve always seen Vader as a not terribly bright, body builder. And Cherie was a bit of a dimbo. But, I think I was wrong. They are more sweet and down to earth characters than unintelligent. I can’t say they are simple because they have incredibly complex secrets they are keeping form all of their friends.
The story is charming, sweet, and a farcical tale of secret identities and living situations. I think it is meant as such, like a farcical stage play (Lend Me A Tenor and Shakespeare’s A Comedy of Errors come to mind). But we also get some drama and danger. The secrets are strangely kept ones, like Derek not telling anyone he is the primary caregiver for his mother. I would that Vader could keep that secret among his fellow firefighters hard to believe. And Cherie’s is really hard to believe. But, farce requires that the errors are just a little too ridiculous and it makes for madcap antics and if true love can find its way through it then Vader and Cherie will have weathered enough trauma to be sure they are meant for each other.
The sex is more romantic than graphic, and it doesn’t overwhelm the story.
I keep wondering who’s next in the station to get a book as the fire station is losing its bachelors and their curse as they each find love and the curse is debunked.
I enjoyed this one, while at the same time I thought it got a little silly. But, the characters are young and while they are leading these lives complicated by their secrets their motivations and desires are really simple and heartfelt. Silly is kind of necessary in our lives, and Jennifer makes it work because it suits the characters and the stories. Love the series and this book! If you love lighthearted, sexy reads this is HIGHLY RECOMMENDED. It could stand alone, but works even better as a part of the series.
August 29, 2017
2.4
Just couldn't get into this one. I got so tired of hearing about Vadars muscles or how big he is on every page. Once I noticed it, it drove me nuts. Cherie and her crazy back history/sister and secretiveness didn't make it any better. It was worth finishing though since I have really liked the other books in the series and plan to continue. This one just wasn't for me.
Just couldn't get into this one. I got so tired of hearing about Vadars muscles or how big he is on every page. Once I noticed it, it drove me nuts. Cherie and her crazy back history/sister and secretiveness didn't make it any better. It was worth finishing though since I have really liked the other books in the series and plan to continue. This one just wasn't for me.
August 21, 2014
I've always been a big fan of Vader throughout this series. He always brought that humorous note to the books and made it extra enjoyable. I was very happy he finally got his own novel. We saw some of him and Cherie in the previous books, but to me it seemed always a bit casual so it did take me a bit by surprise just how serious Vader's feelings toward her were.
The attraction between them was never the problem, the fact that they kept secrets from each other was. All Vader wants is a serious committed relationship, even marriage, with Cherie. He's deeply madly in love with her and he knows that if she would just open up a bit more they could make it work and be happy.
Except things aren't that easy for Cherie. She too wishes things could be different between them, but there is a reason she keeps certain things a secret. Some things do not just involve her, but others as well, so she is afraid that revealing those secrets will hurt those people and she does not want to bother Vader with her problems and etc. To say things are complicated, is putting it mildly.
Besides it seems Cherie isn't the only one who has been keeping secrets. There is definitely more than meets the eye when it comes to Vader, but honestly I did not expect this. I can not reveal his secret, because I don't want to spoil anything. It seems they both will need to learn to open up and share the burden.
Four Weddings and a Fireman was such a delightful story. It had all the right elements; romance, humour, mystery, drama and lots of sexy scenes. Though Vader's secret was surprising it was actually nothing when it came to Cherie's secrets. At first it seems like nothing, but slowly you realize things are way more serious and even dangerous.
Vader was once again amazing, he's definitely one of my favourite characters throughout the series. That man really has it all. He's funny, smart, loyal, sensitive, protective... In the beginning I did have trouble connecting with Cherrie, because I just couldn't understand why she wasn't more forthcoming with her past. Later in the story though, everything makes more sense and you realize why she did those things. All in all she is a good woman and I can respect her choices.
The first impression you get of Vader might not be the most serious one, but throughout the story you get to see this deeper side of him, which I really liked and added that extra dimension. That extra depth kept it from being a too fluffy read. Overall this has all the elements a contemporary romance need; humor, a strong hero and heroine, interesting plot, some drama and plenty of sexy scenes. I can not wait to read the next book in the series.
The attraction between them was never the problem, the fact that they kept secrets from each other was. All Vader wants is a serious committed relationship, even marriage, with Cherie. He's deeply madly in love with her and he knows that if she would just open up a bit more they could make it work and be happy.
Except things aren't that easy for Cherie. She too wishes things could be different between them, but there is a reason she keeps certain things a secret. Some things do not just involve her, but others as well, so she is afraid that revealing those secrets will hurt those people and she does not want to bother Vader with her problems and etc. To say things are complicated, is putting it mildly.
Besides it seems Cherie isn't the only one who has been keeping secrets. There is definitely more than meets the eye when it comes to Vader, but honestly I did not expect this. I can not reveal his secret, because I don't want to spoil anything. It seems they both will need to learn to open up and share the burden.
Four Weddings and a Fireman was such a delightful story. It had all the right elements; romance, humour, mystery, drama and lots of sexy scenes. Though Vader's secret was surprising it was actually nothing when it came to Cherie's secrets. At first it seems like nothing, but slowly you realize things are way more serious and even dangerous.
Vader was once again amazing, he's definitely one of my favourite characters throughout the series. That man really has it all. He's funny, smart, loyal, sensitive, protective... In the beginning I did have trouble connecting with Cherrie, because I just couldn't understand why she wasn't more forthcoming with her past. Later in the story though, everything makes more sense and you realize why she did those things. All in all she is a good woman and I can respect her choices.
The first impression you get of Vader might not be the most serious one, but throughout the story you get to see this deeper side of him, which I really liked and added that extra dimension. That extra depth kept it from being a too fluffy read. Overall this has all the elements a contemporary romance need; humor, a strong hero and heroine, interesting plot, some drama and plenty of sexy scenes. I can not wait to read the next book in the series.
March 13, 2014
I am probably the biggest fan of this series that you will find! They are all sitting atop my shelf with some of my most favorite series of books. I fell in love with the storyline when I picked up the first book in this series. I read that book in the summer of 2012, so now every time that I read one of these books I reminisce about summer time and that fun, easy feeling. This book follows another one of San Gabriel’s finest, Derek “Vader” Brown. He was one of the firemen that I could not wait to get to. I kept hoping his story would be the next one I read. Vader and his on and off again girlfriend, Cherie, are obviously in love, but after she shoots down his marriage proposal not once, but twice, Vader just doesn’t know if he can handle being around her anymore. However, Vader and Cherie have a love that is so strong even a bruised ego can’t keep them apart!
I loved Vader’s character just because he is this big, handsome bulk of a man whom you would expect to be this huge player and ladies’ man, but in fact he is the most loyal, funny, and sweet man of the bunch in my opinion. His intentions in his relationship with Cherie are notable and I couldn’t help but feel sorry for him when she continued to turn him down over and over again. I also loved the scenes when he was visiting his mother, who is physically handicapped. He is so genuine and so caring when it comes to be supportive for his mother. Now he does have his flaws as a character, please don’t mistake me, he has a hot temper and a mouth on him, but of course this only attracts me to him more.
At first I did not care for Cherie at all, or her sassy, know-it-all friends. I did not like the way she treated Vader, but as the story progresses we learn that Cherie has some family secrets that she doesn’t quite feel comfortable sharing with Vader. By the end of the book, however, I began to see her in a different light once I learned all there was to know about her. I knew that she deeply cared for Vader, but at first I just couldn’t understand why she couldn’t allow herself to be with him.
This book has such a light, romantic feel to it and I recommend this series to any and all!
*** A copy of this book was provided to me by the publishers at Avon in exchange for my honest review***
I loved Vader’s character just because he is this big, handsome bulk of a man whom you would expect to be this huge player and ladies’ man, but in fact he is the most loyal, funny, and sweet man of the bunch in my opinion. His intentions in his relationship with Cherie are notable and I couldn’t help but feel sorry for him when she continued to turn him down over and over again. I also loved the scenes when he was visiting his mother, who is physically handicapped. He is so genuine and so caring when it comes to be supportive for his mother. Now he does have his flaws as a character, please don’t mistake me, he has a hot temper and a mouth on him, but of course this only attracts me to him more.
At first I did not care for Cherie at all, or her sassy, know-it-all friends. I did not like the way she treated Vader, but as the story progresses we learn that Cherie has some family secrets that she doesn’t quite feel comfortable sharing with Vader. By the end of the book, however, I began to see her in a different light once I learned all there was to know about her. I knew that she deeply cared for Vader, but at first I just couldn’t understand why she couldn’t allow herself to be with him.
This book has such a light, romantic feel to it and I recommend this series to any and all!
*** A copy of this book was provided to me by the publishers at Avon in exchange for my honest review***
March 3, 2014
**JOSIE'S REVIEW**
This is the first book I read by this author. It was a different type of romance book for me, and I enjoyed it. This book is actually the 5th in the series so I got curious and read 1 through 3. I found each book to be funny, romantic and had drama. Throughout the series, we saw some of Vader and his sometimes girlfriend Cherie. It was easy to see the connection between the two but secrets kept them from really being committed.
I found Vader and Cherie’s story to be delightful, cute, and silly at times. Their story also had some threat and drama, which I think, made it more likable for me (I am a sucker for a drama and thriller). When I started to realize there was something going, I found myself more intrigued. At times I found some of the secrets that were kept, were not that big of a deal. But when you get to know the story more it starts to make sense. Vader had a secret that he kept from his friends in the fire department, I want to say what it is but I think that would be a spoiler. I just thought these men are so close, why would he not feel comfortable telling them.
I absolutely loved Vader’s character. He was funny, loyal and sexy…HELLO FIREFIGHTER. His character would bend over backwards for anyone and more so for his friends, family and the woman he loves…Cherie. Cherie was a difficult character for me to understand. I really did not like her and how she constantly kept Vader at bay. Cherie’s past is a secret. She is hiding from it and fears if the truth were to come out Vader and all those she loves would be hurt.
As I mentioned, I had a problem with Cherie and her behavior towards Vader, but by the end I loved her and I respected her for her choices. You might think that the story is a silly one but the author wraps it in a way that everything falls into place. This book has a relaxed, comical and romantic feel and I think it was a great read. Most of the books I read are graphic, MOTHERHELL BOOKS but I did not mind the change of pace. I cannot wait to read the next one in this series.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This is the first book I read by this author. It was a different type of romance book for me, and I enjoyed it. This book is actually the 5th in the series so I got curious and read 1 through 3. I found each book to be funny, romantic and had drama. Throughout the series, we saw some of Vader and his sometimes girlfriend Cherie. It was easy to see the connection between the two but secrets kept them from really being committed.
I found Vader and Cherie’s story to be delightful, cute, and silly at times. Their story also had some threat and drama, which I think, made it more likable for me (I am a sucker for a drama and thriller). When I started to realize there was something going, I found myself more intrigued. At times I found some of the secrets that were kept, were not that big of a deal. But when you get to know the story more it starts to make sense. Vader had a secret that he kept from his friends in the fire department, I want to say what it is but I think that would be a spoiler. I just thought these men are so close, why would he not feel comfortable telling them.
I absolutely loved Vader’s character. He was funny, loyal and sexy…HELLO FIREFIGHTER. His character would bend over backwards for anyone and more so for his friends, family and the woman he loves…Cherie. Cherie was a difficult character for me to understand. I really did not like her and how she constantly kept Vader at bay. Cherie’s past is a secret. She is hiding from it and fears if the truth were to come out Vader and all those she loves would be hurt.
As I mentioned, I had a problem with Cherie and her behavior towards Vader, but by the end I loved her and I respected her for her choices. You might think that the story is a silly one but the author wraps it in a way that everything falls into place. This book has a relaxed, comical and romantic feel and I think it was a great read. Most of the books I read are graphic, MOTHERHELL BOOKS but I did not mind the change of pace. I cannot wait to read the next one in this series.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
September 19, 2014
Vader is awesome! Vader is your goofy party guy always armed with the video camera. The side you don't see if the son who has been taking care of his Mom since he was 14, and she loves those videos - and he continues to make them for her.
As for Vader and Cherie - we have know about these two for quite some time. Vader went to Sabina a few books ago for advice on helping him with Vader. Your heart can't help but melt when you see a manly man as he is so head over heels in love with 'his girl.' He isn't sure why she is fighting it when he knows she loves him too, but he isn't giving up. Even after she has turned down his marriage proposal TWICE!
His brothers may give him a hard time of how such a muscle head tends to wear his heart on his sleeve, but he doesn't care. "I'm proud of my sensitive nature. Helps me appreciate fluffy kittens and walks in the rain. Chicks are all over that shit." This story had the most layers to peel back with Vader hiding aspects of his past, and Cherie hiding everything down to her name. What will you find in this installment?
Crazy family histories
A pole riding (And shirtless firefighter) - Check out the Youtube video
Unrelenting love and dedication.
Love - in all styles
Family
After all that and two failed proposals from Vader, it ends with "Save the planet, Vader. Will you marry me?" I laughed so hard with all of Cherie and Vader's antics and how they deal with all that peeling back every layer reveals. When these two got their HEA, I was so pleased and relieved. The segued into the upcoming book was just a tease.
Vader clapped a hand on his back. "Freddie, I'm going to get mushy right now, because it's my wedding day and I want everyone to be happy. You ready?"
Fred, looking a little alarmed, nodded.
"If the girls knew what a hero, you are in here" - he thumped Fred's chest - "You wouldn't be able to take a step without some chick falling for you. So be careful what you wish for."
As for Vader and Cherie - we have know about these two for quite some time. Vader went to Sabina a few books ago for advice on helping him with Vader. Your heart can't help but melt when you see a manly man as he is so head over heels in love with 'his girl.' He isn't sure why she is fighting it when he knows she loves him too, but he isn't giving up. Even after she has turned down his marriage proposal TWICE!
His brothers may give him a hard time of how such a muscle head tends to wear his heart on his sleeve, but he doesn't care. "I'm proud of my sensitive nature. Helps me appreciate fluffy kittens and walks in the rain. Chicks are all over that shit." This story had the most layers to peel back with Vader hiding aspects of his past, and Cherie hiding everything down to her name. What will you find in this installment?
Crazy family histories
A pole riding (And shirtless firefighter) - Check out the Youtube video
Unrelenting love and dedication.
Love - in all styles
Family
After all that and two failed proposals from Vader, it ends with "Save the planet, Vader. Will you marry me?" I laughed so hard with all of Cherie and Vader's antics and how they deal with all that peeling back every layer reveals. When these two got their HEA, I was so pleased and relieved. The segued into the upcoming book was just a tease.
Vader clapped a hand on his back. "Freddie, I'm going to get mushy right now, because it's my wedding day and I want everyone to be happy. You ready?"
Fred, looking a little alarmed, nodded.
"If the girls knew what a hero, you are in here" - he thumped Fred's chest - "You wouldn't be able to take a step without some chick falling for you. So be careful what you wish for."
January 26, 2014
Four Weddings and A Fireman was graciously given to me by the publisher for the upcoming blog tour.
As a fan of The Bachelor Firemen of San Gabriel, I really liked this one as it was filled with secrets, suspense, intrigue, and of course romance!!
From the series prior, I had seen glimpses of Derek “Vader” Brown but always hoped that he would have a story of his own and it FINALLY came true!! Vader may have a body that women may lust for but deep down he is the ultimate sweetheart and an overprotective Mama’s Boy. *Swoons*.
To put it simply, Vader is a force of heart and gold and encompasses a multitude of intelligence and what you don’t see meets the eye really. He may seem like one way on the outside but in the inside he’s just a genuinely and ambitiously passionate and romantic sort of guy.
He keeps trying to court on-and off girlfriend Cherie, but she keeps him at a thread. She does share the same feelings as him but has a secretive past that she’s running from and cannot divulge to Vader in fear that it may hurt him or get leaked out to the authorities.
Personally, I’ll admit that at times I grew weary and frustrated with Cherie but in the end I understood her.
SO…with a character willing to give everything and a character with everything to lose, how will it all turn out?
A great addition to TBFMOSB Series brimming with intrigue, quirky and laugh out loud moments, twists and turns with many complications; as well as themes of love, family, friends, and the camaraderie/brotherhood of firemen.
September 7, 2016
Have I told you how much I love firemen?? No? Well, I am obsessed with them. I think it's partly to blame the firewife in me, but I can't get enough firemen books. So when I was given the chance to read Jennifer Bernard's newest book, I just HAD to jump on it. I've read all of her Bachelor books, except for two. They're some of the ones that staring at me, every time I turn on my Kindle. *sigh* Soon.
This book is about Derek "Vader" Brown. He's the joker of the San Gabriel Fire department. And I was quite excited to read his story. He's been dating Cherie, off and on, for over a year now. When he asks her to marry him, she turns him down, TWICE!! That's right, he asks her on two separate occasions and both times he's been denied. But he loves her and hopes that she'll change her mind soon, before he loses his mind.
Cherie has loved Vader, since about two months into their crazy relationship, but she never told him. There are things in her past that she's afraid of and doesn't want him to be dragged into it. So when she thinks Vader is getting too close, she puts the rails on. But she knows she can't keep doing this forever. She hates keeping secrets, but she knows he's keeping some too. So she decides to let him go.
But soon, Cherie's past catches up with her and Vader is dragged back into her life. Will their secrets finally get spilled? Will the curse of the San Gabriel Fire department strike again?? I do believe it will.
I received this ARC for an honest review.
This book is about Derek "Vader" Brown. He's the joker of the San Gabriel Fire department. And I was quite excited to read his story. He's been dating Cherie, off and on, for over a year now. When he asks her to marry him, she turns him down, TWICE!! That's right, he asks her on two separate occasions and both times he's been denied. But he loves her and hopes that she'll change her mind soon, before he loses his mind.
Cherie has loved Vader, since about two months into their crazy relationship, but she never told him. There are things in her past that she's afraid of and doesn't want him to be dragged into it. So when she thinks Vader is getting too close, she puts the rails on. But she knows she can't keep doing this forever. She hates keeping secrets, but she knows he's keeping some too. So she decides to let him go.
But soon, Cherie's past catches up with her and Vader is dragged back into her life. Will their secrets finally get spilled? Will the curse of the San Gabriel Fire department strike again?? I do believe it will.
I received this ARC for an honest review.
March 26, 2014
This is part of the Bachelor Fireman Series but can also be read as a standalone novel.
Derek "Vader" Brown is the light-hearted, "class-clown" of the San Gabriel Fire Dept. But no one has ever really known the deeper side to Vader. No one knows that he loves a good romantic wedding, is deeply in love with Cherie Harper, and takes care of his wheel-chair bound mother.
Cherie Harper has secrets. She ran away from her family with her brother 6 years ago and has been watching her back ever since. She really likes Vader Brown but can't allow herself to get too close to him in order to keep him safe.
What if "he" comes to get her and hurts Vader in the process? That's just not a risk she's willing to take, and she'll end up risking being with the love of her life.
Cherie's troublesome sister ends up showing up to San Gabriel...giving both Cherie and Vader a run for their money to keep tabs on her. And Vader's meddlesome mother keeps things rolling right along.
Will the fun-loving firefighter be able to go get his happily ever after - or is he cursed as a Bachelor Fireman of San Gabriel?
I really enjoyed this book. It was sweet and funny. It was a little slow in some parts, but it had enough steamy areas to keep it going.
Vader was a great lead guy. He was the typical alpha-male, class-clown hero. His job is to save people but the one person he's willing to risk everything to save has turned him down....twice.
I am not compelled to go back and read the previous books but they seem like they would be good for a quick, light read.
Derek "Vader" Brown is the light-hearted, "class-clown" of the San Gabriel Fire Dept. But no one has ever really known the deeper side to Vader. No one knows that he loves a good romantic wedding, is deeply in love with Cherie Harper, and takes care of his wheel-chair bound mother.
Cherie Harper has secrets. She ran away from her family with her brother 6 years ago and has been watching her back ever since. She really likes Vader Brown but can't allow herself to get too close to him in order to keep him safe.
What if "he" comes to get her and hurts Vader in the process? That's just not a risk she's willing to take, and she'll end up risking being with the love of her life.
Cherie's troublesome sister ends up showing up to San Gabriel...giving both Cherie and Vader a run for their money to keep tabs on her. And Vader's meddlesome mother keeps things rolling right along.
Will the fun-loving firefighter be able to go get his happily ever after - or is he cursed as a Bachelor Fireman of San Gabriel?
I really enjoyed this book. It was sweet and funny. It was a little slow in some parts, but it had enough steamy areas to keep it going.
Vader was a great lead guy. He was the typical alpha-male, class-clown hero. His job is to save people but the one person he's willing to risk everything to save has turned him down....twice.
I am not compelled to go back and read the previous books but they seem like they would be good for a quick, light read.
October 12, 2014
If a writing style had a tactile or sensory image to accompany it, I'd picture the glass-smooth, aquamarine Caribbean waters on a cloudless, sunny day. Or melted, rich Belgium dark chocolate flowing in a fountain. Or maybe the feel of the finest silks floating over one's body... it's just that exquisite!
Who DOESN'T love Vader... that big teddy bear! I mean, come on!
Vader's been in this on/off relationship with Cherie for, what seems like, forever! Everytime he attends a fellow firefighter's wedding, his internal mush-o-meter overflows and he proposes to Cherie. Everytime Vader proposes, Cherie turns him down as gently as she can.
Cherie's got a seriously screwed up hidden past that shows up on her present-day doorstep to wreak havoc of epic proportions. Her past makes "drinking the Kool-Aid" seem tame by comparison.
There was one point of predictability, but I am not sure if EVERYONE would foresee it or if it was just where my mind took me. Overall, this is a fantastic read. I love Ms Bernard's smooth writing style. I lose sleep when I get my hands one one of her books & eagerly (greedily) await the next one.
February 18, 2014
4.5 Cocktails
This was my first Bachelor Firemen story, and I will definitely read the rest of them. Vader and Cherie obviously love each other even if they both have secrets that are keeping htem from settling down together.
The Bachelor Firemen of San Gabriel is a great concept and I look forward to more of the fun with the great secondary characters that had real personalities. I would enjoy spending way more time in San Gabriel with the firemen.
I really loved Vader, he’s loyal, fun and very sexy. He’s the kind of hero that would do anything for anyone who needed him and that definitely includes Cherie, who he very much loves. Cherie had a pretty unique and difficult past, but despite that she’s made a pretty great life for herself.
I was hooked into this story and couldn’t put it down. I cheered on Vader and Cherie and was very satisfied when the story ended. I highly recommend this story.
Reviewed by Sheri for Cocktails and Books
This was my first Bachelor Firemen story, and I will definitely read the rest of them. Vader and Cherie obviously love each other even if they both have secrets that are keeping htem from settling down together.
The Bachelor Firemen of San Gabriel is a great concept and I look forward to more of the fun with the great secondary characters that had real personalities. I would enjoy spending way more time in San Gabriel with the firemen.
I really loved Vader, he’s loyal, fun and very sexy. He’s the kind of hero that would do anything for anyone who needed him and that definitely includes Cherie, who he very much loves. Cherie had a pretty unique and difficult past, but despite that she’s made a pretty great life for herself.
I was hooked into this story and couldn’t put it down. I cheered on Vader and Cherie and was very satisfied when the story ended. I highly recommend this story.
Reviewed by Sheri for Cocktails and Books
January 6, 2016
I wasn't sure about this one at the beginning. I love this series, but was hesitant for some reason about Cherie and Vader. I love Vader and was happy to read his story, but Cherie made me nervous as she kept breaking his heart. But as with each Jennifer Bernard book I've read, it soon became one that I just couldn't put down!! I finished in the wee hours of the morning as I didn't want to wait until the next day to see how it ended, LOL. Another great job Ms. Bernard :)
May 31, 2014
Whoa! This book is quite a romp. Lots of action and firehouse antics, crazy family members, and complicated pasts make for a roller-coaster read. This was my first Firemen book and I had no problem getting caught up. Highly recommended.
May 12, 2015
Loved Vader's book!! Was so very glad that the story was as big and wild as the character himself. Took me a while to warm up to Cherie since she was grinding up sweet Vader's heart but she pulled it out in the end. I definitely recommend this one.
January 27, 2016
I usually like this series, but this book drove me nuts. I just wanted to shake them both, grrr I hate when they keep stupid secrets from each other.
March 9, 2014
After five books now, I've gotten used to Jennifer Bernard bringing on the wacky. And oh boy, does she do that in Four Weddings and a Fireman.
First, the part I loved - Vader. Plain and simple. He was sweet, he was adorable, and I was really into him as a character. After seeing glimpses of him in the previous books, I wasn't sure I wanted to read a story with him as the hero. But Bernard does an excellent job of showing the facade is a purposeful thing. And the man behind it? Awesome. Total heart of gold, and not in an annoying way.
As for everything else... I don't know. I'm feeling conflicted.
Everything I liked about previous books in this series is still there - the characters are generally likable, the plot moves, and there's enough action to keep from feeling stuffy.
But holy crap did Bernard bring on the wacky! I thought some of the other books had really Over The Top moments, but this one takes the cake. Totally and completely. There's a new level of Over The Top now, which I honestly didn't think was possible.
As for the relationship itself, this, too, we've seen glimpses of in past books. Ordinarily, I'm not a fan of stuff happening off page (like in Book 2), but the back and forth nature of their relationship is exhausting, and I'm glad a lot of it took place prior to the start of this book. Unfortunately, this doesn't mean there wasn't some on-and-off-again in the book, because there was, and that was also a bit annoying. All of Cherie's excuses made sense within the context of the story, but she'd been dragging Vader along for a year and a half prior to this book. Why did he stay with her for all of this? I'm baffled, because as nice as she is, I would have left her ass long before the first proposal. Why Vader stuck around is a mystery to me. Cherie is, quite simply, a hot mess.
Having finished it now, I can say it was an entertaining read, but suspend reality and prepare yourself for some craziness to occur. This was borderline too much for me, and I skimmed over the crazier parts just to finish. I'll still probably get the next book, since it's Fred's, but I'm glad there are several months between now and then so I can recover and prepare myself for more wackiness.
2.5 - 3 stars
First, the part I loved - Vader. Plain and simple. He was sweet, he was adorable, and I was really into him as a character. After seeing glimpses of him in the previous books, I wasn't sure I wanted to read a story with him as the hero. But Bernard does an excellent job of showing the facade is a purposeful thing. And the man behind it? Awesome. Total heart of gold, and not in an annoying way.
As for everything else... I don't know. I'm feeling conflicted.
Everything I liked about previous books in this series is still there - the characters are generally likable, the plot moves, and there's enough action to keep from feeling stuffy.
But holy crap did Bernard bring on the wacky! I thought some of the other books had really Over The Top moments, but this one takes the cake. Totally and completely. There's a new level of Over The Top now, which I honestly didn't think was possible.
As for the relationship itself, this, too, we've seen glimpses of in past books. Ordinarily, I'm not a fan of stuff happening off page (like in Book 2), but the back and forth nature of their relationship is exhausting, and I'm glad a lot of it took place prior to the start of this book. Unfortunately, this doesn't mean there wasn't some on-and-off-again in the book, because there was, and that was also a bit annoying. All of Cherie's excuses made sense within the context of the story, but she'd been dragging Vader along for a year and a half prior to this book. Why did he stay with her for all of this? I'm baffled, because as nice as she is, I would have left her ass long before the first proposal. Why Vader stuck around is a mystery to me. Cherie is, quite simply, a hot mess.
Having finished it now, I can say it was an entertaining read, but suspend reality and prepare yourself for some craziness to occur. This was borderline too much for me, and I skimmed over the crazier parts just to finish. I'll still probably get the next book, since it's Fred's, but I'm glad there are several months between now and then so I can recover and prepare myself for more wackiness.
2.5 - 3 stars
March 6, 2014
ARC received for an honest review
Have I told you before that I love firemen? No? Well... I love firemen!
This is the 5th book in Bachelor Firemen series, but it is the first that I have read. This did not take away from my enjoyment of this series, as it looks like each book can be read as a standalone, though all the firemen's stories intertwine a bit, but I did not feel that I was missing a lot.
Cherie and Vader have had an on and off relationship for a while. They run hot and heavy, then she runs cold. Gah I wanted to shake some sense into her too many times to count
Vader is the station clown, always one up for a laugh or to play a practical joke. But he hides a lot behind that clown facade.
Cherie is running from her past. Her past is making her push Vader away.
Vader's had enough. No more. Time to move on. But when Cherie's past comes back to haunt her, will he walk away or will he be dragged back into her web?
I gotta admit I loved Vader. My heart broke for him over and over as he tried to get Cherie to love him as much as he loves her.
I struggled with Cherie's behaviour towards Vader, I really did. I can kind of understand why she acts the way she does, but it does not make it any less frustrating for the reader. A lot of the time I was thinking "Really Cherie, that's what you're going to do now?" and "Run away as fast as you can Vader!!", but I was also a cheerleader for their relationship. I want them to sort things out.
Do they sort things out, or does the San Gabriel Bachelor Firefighter curse strike again?
For that you are going to have to read for yourself.
I adored MOST of the secondary characters. Love the other firemen. They made me laugh, they made me cringe. But they are family and were fantastic.
But Cherie's sister 'Trixie' ~~ grrrr OMG how annoying can a person get! But in the end she got a lot better.
Four Weddings and Fireman was a cute, quirky, comical read, with a darker side that at times made me shake my head, rounded out Vader and Cherie's story well.
Ms Bernard has created a family of great characters who you cannot help but get invested in their lives. The story flowed well (even when it made me want to scream!!) and enjoyed her writing style.
Now I need to go back and read about all the other bachelor firemen!
Have I told you before that I love firemen? No? Well... I love firemen!
This is the 5th book in Bachelor Firemen series, but it is the first that I have read. This did not take away from my enjoyment of this series, as it looks like each book can be read as a standalone, though all the firemen's stories intertwine a bit, but I did not feel that I was missing a lot.
Cherie and Vader have had an on and off relationship for a while. They run hot and heavy, then she runs cold. Gah I wanted to shake some sense into her too many times to count
Vader is the station clown, always one up for a laugh or to play a practical joke. But he hides a lot behind that clown facade.
Cherie is running from her past. Her past is making her push Vader away.
Vader's had enough. No more. Time to move on. But when Cherie's past comes back to haunt her, will he walk away or will he be dragged back into her web?
I gotta admit I loved Vader. My heart broke for him over and over as he tried to get Cherie to love him as much as he loves her.
I struggled with Cherie's behaviour towards Vader, I really did. I can kind of understand why she acts the way she does, but it does not make it any less frustrating for the reader. A lot of the time I was thinking "Really Cherie, that's what you're going to do now?" and "Run away as fast as you can Vader!!", but I was also a cheerleader for their relationship. I want them to sort things out.
Do they sort things out, or does the San Gabriel Bachelor Firefighter curse strike again?
For that you are going to have to read for yourself.
I adored MOST of the secondary characters. Love the other firemen. They made me laugh, they made me cringe. But they are family and were fantastic.
But Cherie's sister 'Trixie' ~~ grrrr OMG how annoying can a person get! But in the end she got a lot better.
Four Weddings and Fireman was a cute, quirky, comical read, with a darker side that at times made me shake my head, rounded out Vader and Cherie's story well.
Ms Bernard has created a family of great characters who you cannot help but get invested in their lives. The story flowed well (even when it made me want to scream!!) and enjoyed her writing style.
Now I need to go back and read about all the other bachelor firemen!
September 10, 2017
I was so excited to read this book but.....was quickly bored with repeatedly hearing about how big Vader's chest/muscles were. I got bored with Cherie's wishy washy attitude not to mention her extremely erratic looney sister. I kept finding myself wanting to just skip to the last chapter and I did skip pages here and there because I got bored. I finished the book because I really liked the series. This one is definitely my least favorite so far but Jennifer Bernard is still one of my favorite authors!
June 18, 2018
I love Vader and his big soft heart. I love his mother, Ginny with her determination and fierce love for her son. I love the happy ending. I did not love Cherie and her hot and cold with Vader. I did not love Trixie for her lies and manipulation. I just could not warm up to these two characters.
September 5, 2018
A couple protecting themselves separately due to painful pasts unable to totally keep away from each other with dynamite chemistry but resistant to love, with great dialogue n fun characters from the series
April 12, 2018
Jennifer Bernard is one of my favorite writers, and this book is just another reason why.
October 29, 2018
Background was fun, set-up was fun, suspense plot was ridiculous. Too many secondary characters, probably a function of the fact that this is fifth in a series. I'll be checking out others, though.
November 14, 2019
Sweet story about patience in love
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