Burn

Spark #2

by Brooke Cumberland

*Contains Mature Adult Content. Recommended for 18+ Only*

Book 2 in the Spark Series

Just when Velaney thinks she is safe again...her worst nightmare comes back to haunt her.

Eric is dealing with his own insecurities as he tries to accept Velaney's decision to help the enemy...can he get past it? Will they be there for each other in the end?

Eric struggles to step aside and trust Velaney...but will his past keep him from doing so? Can he let go in order to move forward?

Velaney and Eric had their fair share of ups and downs in SPARK...their love was undeniable and intense. Just when you think they could get their happily ever after...pasts collide and merge together...will they fight for what they want?

Or will their love crash and burn?

Genres: Romance, New Adult, Contemporary, Contemporary Romance, Abuse, Erotica, Audiobook

288 pages, ebook

First published September 28, 2013

About the author

Brooke Cumberland is a USA Today Bestselling author who wears many hats on any given day. She co-wrote under the USA Today Bestselling duo, Kennedy Fox for six years before going back to solo writing. She lives in the frozen tundra of Packer Nation with her husband, wild teenager, and four dogs. When she’s not writing, you can find her reading, watching ASMR and reading vlogs on YouTube, or binge-watching a TV show she's most likely behind on. Brooke's addicted to iced coffee, leggings, and naps. She found her passion for telling stories during winter break one year in grad school—and she hasn’t stopped since.

Find her on social media:
www.brookewritesromance.com
https://www.instagram.com/brookewrite...
https://www.facebook.com/brookewrites...
https://www.tiktok.com/@brookewritesr...

Subscribe to her reader newsletter: http://bit.ly/3HfxrKU

Subscribe to her master blogger list: http://bit.ly/3iNQ7b6

Reviews

[Joy Whiteside · Rating 5 out of 5]

OMG. I loved it. I read this copy in one sitting and could not put it down. I was fortunate enough to have been given the chance to read this book from the very first draft and loved it from the very first word.

The book moved along at a great pace, had interesting characters that you fall in love with and want to see overcome all obstacles in their way and the story was fabulous. I cannot wait to see what the future holds for these characters.

Brooke Cumberland is an amazing, awesome, wonderful author who has a wealth of stories in her imagination and I look forward to being able to experience these stories as she writes them out.

I cannot wait for the next experience of this wonderful author and hope that the wait will not be too long.

Everyone should experience Brooke's books as they transport you to another world and you will never forget your experience once you open the cover.

[Lindsay · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was excited to start Burn. I enjoyed Spark and couldn't wait to find out what happened to Valaney and Eric. But early into the book, I started having issues.

My first red flag was Eric pulling out a c*ck ring. That in and of itself wouldn't be a huge deal...if it wasn't completely out of left field. There was no talk of or even any indication of Eric liking to use sex toys in Spark. So for him to pull it out...on a trip to introduce Valaney to his family...was odd. It didn't sit right with me.

My next red flag that actually had me calling

After everything that Aiden had put Valaney through, and after her mom refused to believe her... her mom still had balls to come and tell Valaney that Aiden was sick...no, she wasn't going to admit that Aiden had done horrible things to Valaney, she came to tell her he had cancer. Then she had the nerve to come say that if Valaney didn't donate bone marrow, she was killing her brother. Um...

Um. Let me think about this for a second...No. Not gonna happen. Then, Velaney decides to be a good person and go through with it. I'm sorry, maybe I'm a bad person but if someone did to me what Aiden did to her, I wouldn't be going out of my way to donate ANYTHING to save them.

That leads me the Eric issues…Eric finally gets a POV and he’s got all this repressed drama that raises its ugly head when they visit his parents. During the visit there was a lot of tension between Eric and one of his cousins. Apparently Eric lost his best friend right after they graduated from high school. And it was under suspicious circumstances…well…suspicious to me. Eric got into it with his cousin about what happened and he only got half the story. I kept waiting for something else to happen, and while more was revealed, it only explained half of the tension. I still say that there was something the cousin was keeping from Eric about his friend’s death. And unfortunately, I’ll never know what it was because that was never wrapped up.

Another big issue I had with this book (actually both books) is the lack of police presence in the stories. I wrote it off in the first one knowing that there was a second book and I figured that it would be addressed in this book. But it wasn’t. After Velaney was attacked in the first book, she was taken to the hospital to get checked out and the nurse mentioned giving the cops information about what happened and about the previous trauma Velaney had suffered at the hands of the same person. But that was the end of it. The police never talked to Velaney. They never interviewed her, never investigated the number of crimes committed by Aiden. And the clincher for me crying BS was near the end when Velaney’s dad shoots someone and the police never show up. Velaney leaves her parent’s house like nothing happened and was never interviewed by the police about what prompted her dad to shoot the guy. It just didn’t make sense!

I wanted to love this book…heck, I would have settled for liking this book. But I didn’t. And at one point, I didn’t think I would even be able to finish it. But after venting to my friend about it, I persevered and kept with it. Yes, things were wrapped up, but there were so many irritating useless dramatic scenes that I got frustrated with this book. There were times that I felt like the angst was manufactured just to stretch out the length of the book.

I don’t dispute that Brooke Cumberland has talent, she does. And for the overall story, stretching over the two books, I did enjoy it. But I had major issues with Burn and that put a damper on my enjoyment of it.

Even with my issues, I would be willing to read more from Brooke Cumberland in the future.

[Kelly Mccurdy · Rating 5 out of 5]

~~I received an ARC in exchange for and honest review~~

This is the second book in the Spark series. This book is HOT! There are twists and turns in the book that you do not see coming. The chemistry that Eric and Velaney is even hotter than before. Secrets are reveled, and tears are shed. You will fall in love with Eric and Velaney all over again!!

Brooke really puts her heart out there in this book. She makes you feel what the characters are feeling. I am glad that I found this author to read! You need to get this book now!! Make sure you read Spark first, you will not regret getting started in this series!!!

[Megan · Rating 5 out of 5]

You know when you meet a set of characters in one book, when that book ends, you immediately wish you had more of the characters?

Instantly??

Well, that was my feeling when I finished Spark.

After devouring Spark I went straight to Brooke and gushed how I loved her writing and her characters I was delighted when she asked me to Beta Spark. Now, when I don't have a daily does of Eric and Velaney I feel like my day isn't complete :(

I will do my best at not giving any crumbs away bc you don't want Burn to be spoiled for you. When you turn the page and you learn something YOU need to experience that feeling good or bad (HA) and you will have both. You'll feel as though you are living every moment with them. Propped on their shoulder as they learn more about each other.

I fell for Eric in Spark and again in Burn but along with Eric, Velaney was the cherry on top in Burn. Velaney has to deal with some crazy struggles all while trying to be a good studiedly God loving girl. She has to be so strong in herself and for others and when the unthinkable happens...multiple... I can see why she starts to falter.

Velaney and Eric have a very fiery relationship on the good side of course which we all love to read about but BUT they have embers that must be dealt with. These embers-some you know Aiden and some YOU DO NOT. But gosh let me tell you, you will be in awe when you read it.

As Brooke wrote she gave me little crumbs and at times left my jaw hanging wide open. I wanted to be shocked and thrilled and not spoiled as she went through the writing process. I got exactly that...over and over!

In Burn we have dual POV and I loved being in Eric's head. To see into his thinking, to see who he is not just through Velaney's eyes. And to see how he truly feels for Velaney. This guy is who we all want to come home to. A to Z he has it all.

There were a few moments when I wanted to shake him a little but more times when I wanted to do the same to Velaney but as the story played out I was on her side. I understood her. I felt for her. OH MY GOD- Did I feel her. You'll see...you'll come to understand my OMG there. This girl has been through the ringer in her lifetime.

I just wanted these two to have a happy life. But as embers sometimes do...they re-spark. Embers can easily turn into another raging fire and in Burn there isn't just smoldering in the bedroom there is fire everywhere that you never saw coming.

I laughed and cried and CRIED and said OMG covering my mouth. Even yelled at Brooke a few times in all caps :) Ripped to shreds, built back up and then ripped again. And what do I say to all of that... I LOVED IT. This is soooo my kind of book.

With sequels you sometimes loose the feeling of the first and it's like ok what happened I'm not in it. Burn is the PERFECT sequel to Spark. PERFECT.

And you can ask Brooke I am as honest as they come. So please don't skip over this book because you think I'm gushing bc I beta read it. I'm telling you the 100% truth. Loved the first and loved the second even more.

oh and ps-If you were a fan of Carissa do not worry... she is her same old self and she has a new friend that I LOVE and can not wait for her story.

[Monique Machuca-Austin · Rating 5 out of 5]

**JUST BOOKED received an ARC for an honest review**

“Stop questioning fate, sweetheart. Just let it happen.” - BURN

If you have not read Brooke Cumberland’s Spark the first novel in the series, be sure to read it so the characters stories will explain how the events occurred leading to the second novel, Burn, and there will no regrets. Spark is the story of Velaney Rose Willis and Carissa Wright, her best friend, are roommates in an apartment after graduating from college. Velaney and Carissa have been best friends since they were two years old, so Carissa knows the demons Velaney harbors from her childhood and provide the security in which Velaney’s parents never could provide. Due to the years of torment, Velaney struggles with dating and relationships finding her to damage for anyone to try to fix, until a fire engulfs her apartment and BFD firefighter, Eric Reilley, enters to find a beautiful Velaney asleep in her bed. Velaney feels as she is floating, then realize someone is carrying her then smoke in the air thickens and Velaney coughs realizing the fire was not the only spark in her apartment.

"To know you really love someone besides the physical stuff and beyond the emotional stuff-is how you can be completely comfortable around that person, you can be yourself-and they love you for exactly that. Nothing more. Nothing less.”- Velaney

Burn begins immediately were Spark left us and in Burn we learn more of Eric’s demons from his past. Eric finds himself speaking to Velaney about his past, since the incidents occurred. Eric also wants to Velaney to know that he will always be with her, even though she may push him away.

"You could put me through a roller coaster of emotional hardship, and still be at the gate waiting for you. I love you, Velaney. No matter what you do…how you handle situations…or how much you push me away…I will always be yours. I’ll always be waiting for you. I’m no one else. I was never meant to be anyone else’s, but yours. Do you understand?” - Eric

Velaney on the other hand, is still experiencing many mix emotions because she is discovering new family secrets, loss, trust, how to communicate in a relationship, guilt, and even doubting her faith.

"And I don’t know how strong I am. Or how strong I can be for you. I love you so fucking much that it actually pains me. The love I feel for you is so damn real, so damn strong - it burns.” - Eric

Will the spark that started between Velaney and Eric continue burn or will the discoveries of their pasts blow out the flame?

“Perhaps all relationships don’t have to crash and burn…” - Velaney

Burn is a SPARKLING HOT LOVE STORY that will capture your attention immediately and will be unable to put the book down. While reading, you will find yourself on an INTENSE emotional roller coaster experiencing many emotions, just as the first novel, Spark. While reading, you will find yourself on A HEART WRENCHING EMOTIONAL ROLLER COASTER with twists and turns experiencing many emotions as the characters did in the novel, like CRYING, LAUGHING, SADNESS, JOY, RAGE, FRIGHT, and LOVE. Brooke also plans to write Clarissa’s story in the third novel in the Spark series, Flame.

I rate Brooke Cumberland’s novel, Burn - 5 HUNKY STARS!

[Kendall {Book Crazy} · Rating 5 out of 5]

I couldn't believe when I received the first fifteen chapters of Burn in my email one day! I had no idea that Brooke was allowing me to beta read for her! I beta read all of this book and the author honestly didn't have to change a single thing about it! It was hot and emotional all at the same time! I completely adored the first book in this series, Spark, so to say that I was desperate for this book was an understatement! The plot of this book had developed on brilliantly from Spark! I had no idea what to really expect with the plot, but the author definitely blew me away! The plot of this book was more emotional compared to the first book's! I cried and I do have to admit that it hit me pretty hard! Well, a lot harder than I was expecting it too! It was so unexpected, but it was executed brilliantly! The plot also held my attention the whole way through and I couldn't put this book down until I had read the last word on the last page! It was so addictive! This book was more about Velaney and Eric's relationship developing further and I just adored it as Velaney and Eric are one of my favourite book couples, so to see their relationship develop really was beautiful! They go through a lot in this book, both together and alone and you don't know whether their relationship is going to survive! I totally won't ruin it for you though and tell you ;) The characters were again amazing! Velaney was again the main character and in this book she was the exact same lovable character that she was in Spark! Velaney goes through a lot in this book and my heart went out to her! She handled what she went through brilliantly and she also reacted the exact same way I would have! I completely loved her! Eric was again the love interest of Velaney and again he was super hot! I loved again how protective Eric was of Velaney and also he went through a lot in this book as well! My ehart went out to him as well! I also loved that some chapters of this book were written from Eric's point of view! He's such an important character and seeing the amount of love for Velaney through his own eyes was so beautiful! I didn't really expect another book to Spark when I started it, but I did say that I would love one when I was like half way through it and I got one, so I'm seriously happy! This book was definitely essential after the ending to Spark as well! I'm also really happy that there's going to be another book in this series! Yes, another book! I know that it's not going to be about Velaney and Eric, but I still can't wait to read it! I did beta read this book while it's cover was in development and I'll admit that I had my own ideas about the cover, so I was really excited to see what the actual cover looked like! It's a complete beauty! It suits the cover for Spark perfectly! Big thank you to Brooke for letting me beta read Burn and to Book Enthusiast Promotions for having me on the Blog Tour!

[Kris · Rating 5 out of 5]

****ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review****

You MUST read 'Spark' before you read this sequel.

Wow, what a way to continue and conclude Velaney and Eric's story!

I loved having Eric's POV in this book, he is truly a beautiful man. We got more of an insight into his past and the events that lead him to become the man he is today. Eric is ALWAYS there for Velaney even when she pushes him away which does happen again in Burn. He is supportive, loving and very protective of Velaney which causes some stress in the relationship with decisions she makes. I honestly think Eric is Velaney's perfect match and the love he feels for her is incredibly deep and strong.....
"I love you so fucking much that it actually pains me. The love I feel for you is so damn real, so damn strong - it burns".

Velaney has been through so much in her life and struggles to let anyone in completely. She grows so much through the course of this book while dealing with more horrific events and secrets that will not be left in the past. She makes decisions in this story that Eric does not agree with and when things steam roll out of control because of these decisions, she copes the best way she knows how.... by shutting everyone out. It's wonderful to watch how she finally confronts her issues, believes in herself and gains the happiness and love she deserves.

There are so many twists, surprises and edge of your seat moments in this book that it makes it extremely difficult to put down. My emotions went on a roller coaster ride were I felt every single up, down, twist, turn, stomach dropping, heart pounding second of the ride and I have to tell you I bloody LOVED EVERY SINGLE BIT!!!!

I fell even more in love with these characters than I already was and I truly believe that everything was wrapped up perfectly, dealt with appropriately and I couldn't be happy with they way things ended. Brooke has done an amazing job at ensuring that the story was well paced, engaging and contained characters that captured the readers hearts.

I can't wait for Carissa's book, she is a great secondary character, an amazing friend and she definitely needs her story to be told.

This series is a MUST read and I guarantee you will not be disappointed!
I highly recommend that you get to know and fall in love with Velaney and Eric.

[Lisa Petty (Book Bangers Blog) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Honest ARC Review:


If you haven't read Spark then GO AND READ IT!!!! Burn is a 5+ star book that is the sequel to Spark. When we left off in Spark Velany and Eric were on their way to Texas to meet his family. On the plan Velany swears she sees her brother the troubled one that tortured her life. After they arrive in Texas mysterious things start to happen and Velany thinks she see's her brother Aiden all over but she can't be sure and she thinks she's going crazy. Upon returning to Boston both Velany and Eric start to settle in to their lives together, but just when you think that things are going to be okay they get hit with a curve ball. And when that hits the drama full of anger, tears, resentment, and loss come with is. Velany has to deal with a loss so devastating that she doesn't include Eric and it will tear them apart. Or will it? Velany's mother comes into play in this book and what she asks of Velany is devastating to help the one person who has torn her world up side down with hurt (her brother). Is Velany strong enough to help him or will she say screw you and let him die. The turn of event in this book had me in tears, laughing, and all out shocked and outraged. However you have to read it in order to find out the ending. And never doubt that her BFF is in the mix as well.

[Cyndi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really liked Spark but Burn is SOOOO much more. I got sucked in and I definitely did not want to leave. It's a continuation of Eric and Velaney and their trials and tribulations in life. You get to see more into Eric's past and how it is hurting his present. You're able to see how caring and forgiving Velaney is and how she starts opening up in more ways then one. Is Eric able to deal with her forgiving and faith? Will they be able to handle everything and stay together through it all? Will their love win out over all the hurt and pain?

This story got my emotions so much more involved and I went on an emotional rollercoaster. I was able to feel for Eric and Velaney and they held my heart in their hands and story.

Brooke has outdone herself with Burn. She was able to bring me in the story and feel like I was a silent (ok maybe not so silent, I did talk with Brooke while reading this) character right next to them going along for the ride. This is a definite, must, no questions asked read.

***ARC given by author for honest review***

[Stacy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brooke has done it again. She took me right into the lives of Eric And Velaney. I finished this book in pretty much a day. As I read it I was on a roller coaster of emotions. I laughed, cried, got excited, and felt the pain that the characters felt. She found a way to make this book not only meet my expectations but went way beyond them as well. The ending was wonderfully perfect and left me in tears. Brooke is an amazing writer and I look forward to reading more of her books.

[Novel Grounds · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 Stars|Spark on Amazon|Burn on Amazon
My Review:
SO excited to have been given the chance to ARC review this for Brooke.

It jumps right in where Spark left off. Thank goodness for that because I was left slack-jawed from the ending.

This book took Eric and Velaney to a whole new level. Not even just with Brooke's writing growing and blossoming to the amazing thing that it is, but with the characters growing themselves as the story is told.

We get a lot more from Eric in this book and I loved it. I felt that it really added an extra layer to their love story. We drove head first into Velaney's past, but Eric was still a mystery to us. Well in Burn the walls are knocked down. We creep into his past and face his demons head on. It's definitely a heart gripper though, so be ready.

Velaney. Well me and her had some issues in this book but thankfully Eric stayed by her side and kept her looking towards the light. I mean as if life hadn't already thrown some real mountains in her way, more just keep popping up. These one though, they really test the strength of E&V's Love. Velaney only knows one way to fight her demons, and that's to run. This definitely throws some curves in their already mountainous path but Eric ever battles on.

I didn't think I could enjoy a book as much as Spark, but I did. Burn was twice as good and sealed this series fate as an ever recommended in my book. It is fantastic. It is wonderfully written and really keeps you entwined. The dialogue is especially easy to jump into and understand. I don't have any complaints other than I want more.

Good thing Brooke is giving us another glimpse into this world! Carissa is set to get her own book, and I cannot WAIT!

Thanks for writing this Brooke. It was a wonderful and certainly spark-filled  read!!

 

Synopsis:
Just when Velaney thinks she is safe again…her worst nightmare comes back to haunt her.

 

Eric is dealing with his own insecurities as he tries to accept Velaney’s decision to help the enemy…can he get past it? Will they be there for each other in the end?

 

He struggles to step aside and trust Velaney...but will his past keep him from doing so? Can he let go in order to move forward?

 

Velaney and Eric had their fair share of ups and downs in SPARK…they love was undeniable and intense. Just when you think they could get their happily ever after…pasts collide and merge together…will they fight for what they want?

 

Or will their love crash and burn?

 

Author Bio: 

Brooke is a midwestern gal, from the cheese state of Wisconsin! Go Packers! She's a stay-at-home mom of three beautiful children (one daughter & two stepsons) and a black fury dog. She's studied psychology in college, and counseling and education in graduate school where she found her love for writing. Most days you can find her reading or writing, or just hanging out with her family! She loves movies, cooking, and shopping! She's addicted to Starbucks, Coach purses, and wearing yoga pants.

 

Social Links: 

 

Facebook: www.facebook.com/brookecumberlandauthor

Twitter: @blcumberland

Goodreads Author: www.goodreads.com/brookecumberland

Goodreads Book Link: http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18...

Website: www.brookecumberland.blogspot.com

Other: 

http://www.amazon.com/Brooke-Cumberla...

 

Buy Links:

Kitchen Affairs Series:

Kitchen Affairs - http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00BYD1CWM

Kitchen Scandals - http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00DPRFQN6

 
BURN playlist
**Songs that relate to Eric & Velaney’s journey or songs that were involved in creating their story.**

“Dancing in the Sky” by Dani & Lizzy (For Ethan, Megan, & Baby Reilley #1)

“Wake Me Up” by Avicii

“Stars” by Grace Potter

“Marry Me” by Train

“God Gave Me You” by Dave Barnes/Blake Shelton

“What Can I Do (But Love You)” by Joy Williams

“I Could Not Ask For More” by Sara Evans

“Stuck Like Glue” by Sugarland

“Bless the Broken Road” by Rascal Flatts

“Here Comes Goodbye” by Rascal Flatts

“Blown Away” by Carrie Underwood

“Roar” by Katy Perry

“Hurt” by Christina Aguilera

“I Bruise Easily” by Natasha Bedingfield

“Soldier” by Gavin Degraw

“More than Anyone” by Gavin Degraw

“Stay” by Rihanna

“Dreaming With A Broken Heart” by John Mayer

“Wrecking Ball” by Miley Cyrus

http://wp.me/p3raRE-Do

[Cindy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Synopsis:
Just when Velaney thinks she is safe again…her worst nightmare comes back to haunt her.

Eric is dealing with his own insecurities as he tries to accept Velaney’s decision to help the enemy…can he get past it? Will they be there for each other in the end?

Eric struggles to step aside and trust Velaney...but will his past keep him from doing so? Can he let go in order to move forward?

Velaney and Eric had their fair share of ups and downs in SPARK…their love was undeniable and intense. Just when you think they could get their happily ever after…pasts collide and merge together…will they fight for what they want?

Or will their love crash and burn?

Excerpt:
I just barely recover before Eric pushes inside me. He's slow and gentle, making sure to take his time with me. The moment is sweet, tender. It's as if our bodies are connecting for the first time and we're just meeting each other. The feeling is new-different. It's as if everything we've been through up to this point no longer matters. We're here now...together.

I never believed in the happily ever after's...never believed in the fantasy Disney princesses finding her knight in shining armor. In fact, I didn't believe in love at all. I never expected it. Eric helped show me that it existed, that not only was it what I needed, but it was what saved me. Eric has been saving me since the moment he meet me.


My Review:
Holy amazeballs Brooke Cumberland did it again with Burn. Burn picks up right where Spark left off. Eric taking Velaney to meet his family. While on the plane and in Texas Velaney starts seeing Aiden. She believes she is going crazy. She believes she hallucinated it.

OMFG I was all over the place reading Burn. I was on a roller coaster of emotions. Ups and downs twists and turns. Eric and Velaney's love is put to the test several times in Burn. Can it survive?

My heart broke for Velaney during Burn. She showed how strong she is. I don't believe I could make the choices she does. And the terrible heartache she goes through WOW. Brooke is so good at tearing me apart. I was on pins and needles reading Burn. Velaney started out as a fragile, fearful girl and became an independent, fearless women.

Eric oh I fell more in love with him. He is so passionately in love with Velaney. He is absolutely swoon worthy. I mean who doesn't love a sexy hot firefighter right? Even when Velaney makes decisions without him he eventually supports her. He is her rock, her knight in shining armor. He is exactly what Velaney needs.

Then there is Carissa. I said it before and I'll say it again. She is the BEST, best friend ever. She supports Laney at every decision. They have an awesome friendship. I can't wait to read her story in Flame. I need her to get her happily ever after. Will it be with Drew?

I tell You I believe Brooke is a FANTASTIC author that pulls her readers in and holds them captive. This series is a definite must read. Every bit 5 star worthy. Hell I would give it 100 stars if I could.

[Athena Freya · Rating 5 out of 5]

Given by the author for an honest review for her Burn Blog Tour

What an amazing book and a perfect ending to Vel and Eric's story...
It's one of the most unpredictable and fascinating book series I have ever read!
You never know what is going to happen,how the characters are going to react...

CAPTIVATING
That's the one word that can fully describe the series..Utterly Captivating..

>>Velaney shows her real self in this book..She is a fierce woman,who believes in God, and she will do the right thing..Even if it regards a sick and poor excuse of a person...Personally,I would have let him die..The more painful the better...Oh boy..I do sound like a bloodthirsty vindictive woman,don't I?..Well,Velaney is truelly an angel..I don't even know how she found the strength and the courage to do what she did..And then..When she does do the right thing,she gets punished for it..I was so angry when that happened..Because that can happen in real life,as well..You are the good person AND get screwed over..It happens one too many times,I'm afraid..
Velaney is one hell of a woman..A fierce angelic warrior..

>>Eric's emotions are on a rollcoaster in this book..I can't say that I blame him..If I were him,I wouldn't understand Velaney's decision either..But he comes around..What I didn't expect is his purre devotion to Velaney..Yes I know that he is crazy in love with her and would do everything for her..But he didn't even blink,when Vel explained how the umm...tragedy happened...He was just standing there full on supportive mode..He was there for her,when she didn't want anyone,when she wasn't there for herself..I have never seen anything like it..It makes me dream that there are men out there..Men like Eric,who will stand up for the woman they love..
Eric is the very definition of a real man..

I won't comment on Vel's biological family..They are really a disgrace to humanity..When I read about characters such as these,I can't help but wonder "Are there really beings like that out there?Parents who won't protect their own child?Parents who will allow sexual abuse under their roof?"..And then I think "Yes there are..."..My heart really breaks for all the victims out there,who are betrayed by their friends and family..I'll just leave it at that..

The Spark Series is more than a lovestory of 2 damaged people..I can't say that they change throughout the books..They simply move on..Together...

Spark and Burn are 2 very emotional and deep books,that speak the truth..They are fictional,but Velaney is certainly some woman in the world,who has lived the same pain..Eris is a man,who has lost friends and a baby,who has loved a woman more than anything..Carissa,a commitment-phobe fearless girl,who has survived an awful childhood..The characters are real..Their story could be real..And that's the bless and curse of the series..It gives you the truth;yet the truth can be ugly..But the truth can also be blindly beautiful..

Captivating.One of a Kind.You're missing something,if you don't read it.

[Angela · Rating 5 out of 5]

So glad I was finally able to read the rest of Laney and Eric's story!!

I loved Burn just as I did Spark. This one has a lot more drama for poor Velaney to go through, but you know they always say what doesn't kill you makes you stronger! By the end of this book, Laney should be superwoman.

Burn picks up right where Spark left off with the two reunited lovebirds on the plane headed to Texas with Velaney having spotted someone else she knows on the plane with them. After a couple of spottings in Texas along with some mega-hot sex in a tractor, they head on back north. Things really come to a head when Mommy Dearest comes a'calling asking Velaney to do the unthinkable. She goes against both Eric and Carissa and does what she feels is right. This causes major problems between her and Eric, but our hot, sexy firefighter wins more brownie points by giving in first and allowing them to get back together.

We learn about Eric's past in this book which explains why he has the hero complex that had him coming across as a tad stalkerish in Spark and why he is so intent on protecting Velaney and keeping her safe. Once you learn what he's been through and knowing why he is the way he is, it's so sweet and caring that you completely forgive him for ever doubting him in any way.

There's lots of back and forth in this book, same as in Spark. Velaney loves Eric, but she's still got that fight or flight mentality that seems to be stuck in flight anytime something happens. You just want to box her ears sometimes and tell her to wake up! Eric is the all-time perfect guy who is head over heels for her and would do anything at all for Velaney. He puts up with so much in this book, I feel sorry for him! There's an awful tragedy in this story that could have pulled the two of them even closer than ever, but Velaney runs and tries to deal with it alone. When she returns, she and Eric patch things up and then crap hits the fan. Eric discovers things about her past and once she learns of these hidden truths, everything in her life starts to make sense and she faces those demons head on with a shocking result! (I do feel what happens at her parents' house was majorly underplayed and unrealistic, that scene was my only complaint in both of these books. There would have been some sort of follow up with an investigation or something, but it was never mentioned again.)

Eric decides he can't live without Velaney and decides to pop the question so he whisks her away to Texas, only things go seriously wrong before they even get to land. Thankfully, he and Carissa had a chance to bond earlier in the book because they need each other to lean on as they're there to support Laney.

The book does FINALLY give us the happily ever after for Eric and Velaney that we have all been waiting for! To truly enjoy this book, you HAVE to read Spark first, otherwise you'll be totally lost. I am looking forward to reading Flame, which is Carissa's story. My only fear is it's going to be hard to top Velaney and Eric's story.

[Zakirrah BookBlogger · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 DRAMA FILLED, UNEXPECTED STARS!



What an ending to this series!This book is filled with drama, twists and turns and much more.It had parts which made me laugh and others which made me want to pull my hair out.Its sad to see it finish I want more Eric. Oh but I can not wait to read Carissa's book she is a great character and I am intrigued.Oh and that hot English dude, hope he stays ;)

"Can I have my girlfriend back now?" Eric pouts, pretending to feel left out.
"Oh, now you hush boy.She's our guest."
"And what am I? Chopped Liver?" He pouts his lower lip out and it takes all the willpower in me not to bite it between my teeth.

This book starts off where Spark (book 1) left off its like just when things start to settle down BOOM! problem arises. Like seriously stop it, all that drama must be so damn exhausting! At the end of this book I was drained and so glad it was a happily ever after.

In Burn I am glad that there is more about Eric's past and his family oh his POV. I feel like we got to know Eric more even though in book 1 there weren't indications about Eric having a rough past so this was a surprise. I thought it was only Velaney who has a lot of issues.I loved how protective and caring Eric was and how he was very supportive even through some rough times where Velaney makes some stupid decisions.

Do you believe everything happens for a reason?
When Velaney makes a difficult decision she could easily tear a lot of new relationships apart.
So what will happen, will Eric and Velaney's relationship survive?

I really enjoyed book 1 and was looking forward to see how the story would continue.There were a lot of things happening which I didn't expect and in this book I was quite pissed off with Velaney. I understand that she has past issues which keep re-surfacing but because of her issues I felt like she repeatedly hurt Eric.And he just didn't deserve that! NO!


Velaney struggles through life and I'm glad she changes over time, I was okay with her again by the end.
Okay now her family..I HATE THEM!
Urgh manipulative disgusting people that should be in jail or buried alive (I like option B)

"..When someone changes you for the better and loves you despite all your faults, you better marry that person, swoop them up and claim their body as yours-otherwise someone smarter than you will."

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~**~*~*~*~*~*~*~
**ARC courtesy of the author in exchange for an honest review**

Check out my blog for more reviews!
http://zakirrahsbookblog.blogspot.co.uk/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Zakirr...

[Jessica Adams · Rating 5 out of 5]

****RECEIVED ARC FOR HONEST REVIEW***

If you thought Spark was a roller coaster ride hold on to your seats. Brooke does an amazing job picking up right where things left off. Burn will have your emotions all over the place. I have laughed, cried and been angry. I love when I can pick up a book and immediately be sucked in.
Burn picks up with Laney and Eric going to Texas and Laney swears she sees Aiden everywhere. There are a couple of BIG twists and heartaches throughout the book. I sat and cried for a long time and at one point I wasn't sure if I could continue. When you get attached to characters and see their heartache you can't help but hurt for them. Just when you think things are settling down BAM Brooke throws a curve ball in. We see Laney go through a devastating loss without Eric that could tear them apart forever. And we see just how strong her past has made her when she deals with her mother and finds out the family secret.
Eric is as faithful to Laney as ever, even when she doesn't want him around. He wants nothing more than to be there and support her through everything. Watching him and hearing his reaction to things throughout the book pulls at your heart more.
Is their love strong enough to survive the heartache or do they crash and burn?
We still see Laney's spunky best friend Carissa in the book and even she has found someone. Does this mean we will see a happy ending for everyone? I guess we will have to wait and find out in Flame (Carissa's book)
Burn moves at a great pace. I highly recommend that you are ready to read this in one sitting without any distractions. Brooke is a fantastic writer, I have loved everything I have read. If you haven't read Spark yet be sure to pick it up before you read this one.
Favorite Quote: "I wanted to share this with you, Velaney, because some day, I hope to build and share our lives out here"

[Irene · Rating 5 out of 5]

Burn is in Eric's POV which is great.

Burn picks up where Spark left off. I love a book where there isn't a big time gap.
In Burn we learn more about Eric and what drives him to be a fireman. How he truly feels for Velaney. We learn about his friend ships with his cousin's and how they fell through. It is very emotional I believe.

Eric and Velaney's relationship is rocky in this story, only because Velaney runs away instead of talking it out. Aidan, Velaney's brother shows back up and it is sickening what he does. I don't want to give to much away but, have you seen the movie My Sister's Keeper? Yeah part of this book reminds me of that. Don't get me wrong this book still has it's hot sex.

I couldn't put this book down. I wanted to hurry up and finish just to see how Eric and Velaney's story went. But the closer I got to the end I didn't want it to end.
Eric's family is the best. They treated Velaney like she was already apart of their family. Something she always wanted. Velaney does talk more about her religious background. How she feels she needs to help her family because if she doesn't how God might look down on her. Eric doesn't see it that way. With all the crap she went through growing up why should she help her family out. Then Eric and Velaney suffer a great loss and this questions her faith. But like I said the situation with Velaney and her family reminds me of that movie. You have to read the book to get it. I can go on and on, but I don't want to give to much away.

Does Velaney and Eric stay together? What kind of loss did they suffer? Oh and we see that Carissa meets a guy. Yup can't wait to read about that. I am telling you...you have to read this series especially if you want to read about hot fireman.

[VicciReviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

THIS BOOK IS STEAMING UP MY KINDLE!

WOW! I thought Spark was an amazing read! Burn blew it Away!
There is so much going on in this book. I don't want to give away any spoilers, but there were times I was just shocked at the amount of stuff Eric and Velaney have to deal with. At some points, I just wanted to throw my kindle in just utter frustration at what these two amazing people had to go through!

Velaney's character was just so strong and indescribable. Her inner strength and courage made her my new book hero! This book will test your emotions!
I openly wept at certain parts of this book. It is a total emotional roller coaster ride! It is so worth every gut wrenching moment! It really make you believe in the love of these two amazing people!

I am so in love with the Story of Velaney and Eric. At times Eric just seems to good to be true. It was just fantastic seeing these two fall deeper in love with each other. The hurdles they have in front of them at times are so daunting! Seeing them work through all of it and come out stronger is just so great!

Now this book is super steamy and sexy. Some of pages just literally set your hormones and girly parts on fire they are that good. A nice tall glass of ice water is needed for some of the sex scenes! Yes they are that hot! I felt the burn and I loved the burn! This is a great book! Read it today!

[Jenny Harris · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am not a person to leave 5 star reviews but this book so deserves it. The way the author takes everything from the first book and continues it flawlessly in the second is superb. There is so much that goes on in this book I am not sure what to say without giving away to much. Eric and Velaney start off right where we left them in book one on the plane. Valaney is sure that she saw Aiden but when she looks again he is no where to be found. Eric and Valaney have their share of ups and downs in this book from Velaney's family but we get to learn a bit more about Eric and his family in this book. One thing I will says is when you think it is all wrapped up and it is all over there is more to come. In this book we also see a much more dominant side to Eric than we did in the first book. At first I thought this would scare her away from her but she seems to have no problems at all with it. I was so happy to read this second book and can not wait to read the third book which will contain Carissa's story. The way her character is in this book you will be wanting to see good things for this woman as well. I would highly recommend this book to anyone and everyone. Just remember you must read Spark before this book otherwise there will be spoilers for you

[Ada Slowe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Can I just say Brooke is officially one of my favorite authors. The first book I ever read from her was Spark and I was glued instantly I read that in one sitting as well as all of her other books. And I don't think I could love this woman anymore if I tried lol

Anyway, I'm so grateful to have been given an ARC for this book. I loved Spark a lot and I didn't think it was possible to love Eric any more until I read Burn. I read this book in nothing more than 4 hours.

If you think spark was an emotional roller coaster than you've seen nothing yet. Eric and Velaney go through some really emotional stuff, that could push any couple apart and yet the things that threaten to break them are always the things that make them stronger.

Brooke did a wonderful job not only on capturing just enough emotion, but making such well related and understandable characters. I loved this book so much. Even more than Spark. I can't even tell you in words how much I loved it. It's pure amazing. I just love what Brooke has created and I can't wait for more books from her.

She did an amazing job. :) I'm just sad The book has ended.

[Ange from Cover to Cover Book Blog · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have never in my life cried so hard over a book. Yes with a movie and yes with a TV show but NEVER with a book. I could not get enough of Laney and Eric. I finished reading it in the wee hours of the morning and was sobbing my head off. It was so bad that my husband woke up to check on me!

Many components of the book, numerous people can relate. I rooted for these two to finally get together and just love! I was angry at both of them throughout the book and wanted to knock some sense into them!

Their love is epic and one for the history books.

Laney's best friend is one to love as well. She makes you laugh quite a bit.

Brooke Cumberland is amazing and I cannot wait to read more of her works.

[Christine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Couldn't put this one down

Couldn't put this one down

Loved the characters. Loved the story. Can't believe what all happened in this book. Wow a must read. Will read more from this author.

[Vikas · Rating 5 out of 5]

This one was awesome but I very nearly deducted many stars for the apparent stupid behavior by the main character but then again who knows how people would behave in a similar scenario not that I wish anyone to be in the same scenario but we know shit happens. I had forgotten to update you that this book has a story told through the viewpoint of both the main characters so this adds another angle to the book. As I reached the end of the story I kept on expecting something bad to happen as I knew there was the 3rd book in the series as well but thankfully this marks the closure of the love story between Velaney and Eric and the 3rd book is based on Clarrisa the fire-brand roommate of Velaney and it would definitely be worthy to learn more about the life and story of hers in more details. So you pick and read what you like and I shall continue my journey through the Romance/Erotica genre for some time and Keep on Reading.

People who don't read generally ask me my reasons for reading. Simply put, I absolutely love reading, so I have made it my motto to Forever Keep on Reading. I love reading everything except for Self Help books, even occasionally. I read almost all the genres but YA, Fantasy, and Biographies are the most read. My favorite series is Harry Potter, but then there are many more books I adore. I have bookcases filled with books that are waiting to be read so I can't stay and spend more time on this review, so remember I loved reading this and love reading more, you should also read what you love and then just Keep on Reading.

[j. · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book wasn't a total let down in comparison to the first book Spark. I loved Spark so much that I read it probably 4 times right after I finished it. *swoon* Eric...


I definitely did not expect for Burn to be a total emotional rollercoaster nor did I expect for Eric to have a troublesome past or for them to have some major break up + couple issues. Overall the book was enjoyable and I was very happy to see Eric *sighhhh*. However, I kinda developed a strong dislike towards Velaney. During the first book I liked her since she wasn't that annoying main girl that you just want to smack, but omg in this book......


The way she constantly pushes Eric away and keeps avoiding him and being all annoying like that made me just so fed up and angry. She seriously needed to STOP and take a chill pill or if not, at least use some logic.

My reaction to multiple things Velaney does in the book:



Also, the way the book has some chapters in Eric's point of view was just okay. I honestly love reading things in male point of views, but it was a bit unrealistic (sounded female/robotic to me) and more like a recap + "no show, all tell" kind of thing. The author recapped things that already happened to show us how Eric felt, but uhh... it came off as out of place because it would refer to something that happened a while ago rather than right at the same scene. And I didn't really like that because my mind would already move past the scene by the time it was mentioned again in Eric's view.

[Carrie White · Rating 4 out of 5]

Amazingly, beautifully, heartfelt written book!!
OMG I was amazed better than Spark. Holy Mother of Jesus....
It was an emotional roller coaster for me,I really felt these characters in Burn!!
I loved Clarissa's humor, OMG I laughed out loud, really loud from her!
Velaney and Eric make a super Hot couple, such passionate romance between them two.
I loved how everyone was able to get closure but most of all the delivery scene. Oh my goodies that was one hundred percent relatable. Congrats Brooke on a sequel that ROCKED:)

[Lisa Survillas · Rating 4 out of 5]

Velany's character grow so much emotionally in this book. Her path is hard and sad, but she comes out so much stronger. Eric is one of the sweetest male characters I've read about in a long time. He loves with everything he has and his patience is never ending. I love these characters. Their love is powerful. There passion is HOT.

[Jenn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brooke did a wonderful job with Burn. I was able to read this book while it was in the process of being written so I’ve had to reread some parts several times over, yet I never got tired of reading it. This story had me sitting at the edge of seat the entire time and let me tell you the twist and turns were completely unpredictable. I was not able to put this book down!

Velaney hasn’t had very much people to trust in her life. Aside from her best friend, Carissa, she has been pretty much alone. So when Eric first came waltzing into her life, she didn’t know how to react to him. He brought on feelings she has never felt before and didn’t know what to do with them. So what was she to do but push him away? However, when she finally realized she couldn’t live without him, she ran after him and got what she wanted.

Velaney and Eric have overcome a lot of obstacles to be together. In Spark, their relationship has been tested several times and they were able to find their way back to one another. In this book, there are many more obstacles that rest their relationship, putting it more at risk. Will they have enough faith to keep them together?

After reuniting with one another, Eric takes Velaney back with to his childhood home in Texas. Eric was always brought up with the loving family atmosphere. This brings some unknown feelings to Velaney since she has never experienced that kind of love from her family at all. Even though his family just met her, they welcome her with open arms. This is all a very overwhelming experience for her, but one she is happy to embrace. All the while she is with Eric at his family’s ranch, her nightmares are returning, and so is her paranoia of seeing her brother Aiden everywhere she turns. She feels as if he is watching her every move. It’s as if he is there stalking her. His control over her has reappeared and she doesn’t know how to shake the feeling.

When they both return home they try to return back to their normal lives. But being back home brings back old feelings for Eric. A secret from his past is haunting him every day. He feels the need to tell her, but it is so painful that it’s hard to relive over again. But since he doesn’t know how to tell her, he pushes her away instead. Velaney knows better than to walk away though, instead of letting him, she doesn’t push but rather wait until he is ready to talk. This small gesture makes him fall in love with her even more.

Velaney’s horrible mother bullies her into being the saving grace of their corrupt family. She makes Velaney feel that she needs to desperately save her brother and that she is the only one that could do that. As much Velaney hates her brother Aiden, her faith in God doesn’t allow her do that to him when she can be the one that could save him. This entire situation is one big f*ed up mess. It brings on a whole lot a problems for Velaney and Eric as well. Eric has already lost two people who he deeply cares about. He can’t even begin to imagine his life if he lost Velaney as well but Velaney won’t budge on her decision. She is determined to get this over with and be done with her family no matter the consequences.

Velaney blames herself for the situations that have occurred and instead of facing them, she runs from them to handle them herself. It’s the only way she know how to deal with them; alone. She needs to find herself again. She feels alone. She pushes everyone who truly cares about away from her. Carissa and Eric both love her and want what’s best for her. But how can you help someone who keeps pushing you away?

Will Velaney finally be able to seek help from those that love her? Or she continue to deal with her problems alone? How much can Eric take before he gives up on Velaney? Will Velaney continue to blame herself for putting herself in these situations? Will she ever break free from her family and not live in fear ever again? Can Velaney and Eric finally find happiness with each other?

There is a lot of push and pull between Eric and Velaney’s relationship, I mean a lot. I kind of had me wondering if they were ever going to be together or not. Velaney shows enormous strength in this book. It was great to see her grow and mature as well. The situations that she had to endure and live through, I do not wish upon anyone. But she able to push through every single one of them and continue with life with the help of Carissa and Eric. It was also amazing to see them grow as a couple. They both have never been in relationships before so they are experiencing this together. Without a doubt you see the connection that they share. But, boy, in the bedroom the physical connection is HOT I tell you! Eric had his own fair share of problems but I loved how he always put Velaney before himself. He always wanted to protect her and keep her safe. Carissa is the best friend every girl should have. She is simply amazing and is always there when you need her. Absolutely loved this book and can’t wait for more books by Brooke!

This review was done by Jennelyn.

I received an ARC of this book for my honest review.

[Holly · Rating 4 out of 5]

*I received a copy of this from the author in exchange for an honest review.


Spark was an enjoyable read that brought us Velaney and Eric, two main characters who never understood what love really meant until they found each other. The healing that Velaney went through was amazing to watch unfold. The way she stood up to her past, the way she opened up to Eric. She's a strong person, and now she's found a reason to be happy. A reason to want to wake up in a man's arms. And that reason is Eric.

In Spark, we don't know much about him. The first book was really about Velaney and her journey of healing. Eric is just the guy who helped her through it and made her start to believe in happily-ever-after. But it's clear that there's more to Eric than meets the eye. It's clear that he has demons, too. Demons that still haunt him to this day.

Demons. We all have them, right? But how do you live with them? Or better yet, how do you get over them so you can continue to move forward?

But Eric hasn't tried to move forward yet, and he doesn't know how to let go of his past and the pain he's kept buried inside. Velaney is there to help him, although she's still battling demons of her own. After the surgery, she thought she'd moved on. She thought she'd never have to see her family again. But when tragedy strikes, it brings everything back. The pain. The misery. The anger. And Velaney does the one thing she's always done; run away. She runs away from the people who love her the most. While staying with her aunt, Velaney has time to ponder her choices in life.

"Just make sure that whatever you're running away from, is exactly what you need right now to heal. Don't run away because you think it'll be too painful for others. But don't stay just because you feel you have to." -Velaney's aunt

With time away from everything, Velaney realizes that she needs to go back to Boston and face Eric. Because she's been keeping secrets, and he needs to know them. And it's also because she didn't mean anything she said in that letter. He's her forever, the only man she'll ever want. He's showed her what unconditional love looks like, and she wants that. She just has trust issues. And she and Eric both let bad things tear them to shreds. But moving on is a part of life.

"How would we appreciate the good if nothing bad happened? How would we learn from our mistakes if everything worked out perfectly? That's not the whole point to life, Eric. We live and learn...we suffer...we love...we live. It's a matter of how we adjust to what is thrown our way." -Velaney

If only they both would take that advice. At times, I wanted to smack the shit out of Velaney for her choices regarding Eric, and at other times, I just wanted to give her a big hug. She has had a lot of bad things happen to her, but she's strong. It takes her a long time to realize her self-worth, and that she deserves happiness. Both of these characters do. But because of all the shit that's happened to them, they don't take the time to appreciate the good because they're so sure it'll all be taken away.

Through the tears, heartache, and pain, Velaney and Eric realize that what they have is something to be cherished. The kind of love that people should revel in. With the help of amazing family and friends, they don't lose sight of that realization. Their journey to finding each other was so, so worth it.

I really liked this book, and I enjoyed watching the developing relationship between Velaney and Eric grow into something much stronger, and that burns brighter, than anything they've ever felt before. And I'm so looking forward to reading Carissa's story. :)

***

Add-ons:
This book needs to be better edited. Honestly, it's a huge reason why this is only getting 4 stars from me. Also, there's so much drama and so many things going on that it sometimes seems like TOO much.

[Amy Cox · Rating 5 out of 5]

Synopsis:
Just when Velaney thinks she is safe again…her worst nightmare comes back to haunt her.

Eric is dealing with his own insecurities as he tries to accept Velaney’s decision to help the enemy…can he get past it? Will they be there for each other in the end?

Eric struggles to step aside and trust Velaney...but will his past keep him from doing so? Can he let go in order to move forward?

Velaney and Eric had their fair share of ups and downs in SPARK…their love was undeniable and intense. Just when you think they could get their happily ever after…pasts collide and merge together…will they fight for what they want?

Or will their love crash and burn?


I have to start this by saying that I am a HUGE Brooke Cumberland fan. Of her currently published four books I have read all four and love them. Her two series are very different and yet she manages to balance the emotion, heat and total WTF moments in each book giving each character their own individual voice. That being said…

Burn is the continuation of Spark, Eric and Velaney’s story. Eric rescued Velaney in a fire and the ups and downs were beyond intense. Their chemistry is off the charts. Vel has a troubled past. Her brother Aiden was determined to keep her all to himself and abused her for years. Yes like I said there is emotions and plenty of suspense to keep you guessing page by page. Eric is a country boy, sweet and you just fall for him instantly. Not to mention HELLO he is a steamy ripped firefighter with tattoos and piercings and he was such a romantic.
“Velaney was simply stunning. She didn’t see it, but to me, she was perfect.”~Eric
In this book though Eric and Velaney discover things about each other. Eric has things that are very unpleasant in his past too, just as Vel does. The past comes back in a big way and it causes big problems between them. Though they fight for what they have and the love they have is so powerful, the past and their future collide and they struggle to keep above water.
“There is nothing you can say or do that will make me want to leave. Don’t tell me. Don’t talk to me. But please, do not tell me to let you go Sweetheart, that will never happen. Whether or not we’re together, I’ll always be yours.”~Eric
Eric also releases this dominant, alpha sexiness that I absolutely was NOT expecting. Brooke really brought it with this, she left it all on the table and there was no holding back. I found myself repeating, ‘Oh my god’ as much as Velaney did.
“Baby…if you want me…you’ll need to earn it.”~Eric
I absolutely loved this story the relationships with the secondary characters are just as important as between Eric and Velaney. Her best friend Carissa and their families are included in the story line and I love how Brooke shows the dynamic so well. She makes you love the characters. She makes you cry with them, laugh with them and root them on in every way. The strength that Velaney grows into in this book and takes on her awful mother and brother, Aiden made me as proud as if she were my sister or friend. This is a must read, after you read Spark if you haven’t already of course and if you haven’t what are you waiting for it is powerful and not your typical story at all.
I will leave you with my two favorite lines from Velaney that aren’t spoilers of course. Brooke made it very very hard to pick quotes I would seriously have to highlight half the book for you.
“Perhaps all relationships aren’t meant to crash and burn..” ~Velaney
“Forgiveness is key… so don’t be afraid to turn it. Allow yourself to forgive. Forgive yourself.”

[Katherine · Rating 4 out of 5]

Burn starts right where Spark (#1) left off, we all know the monster that is Aiden, and how Velaney so desperately wants him out of her life for good, yet seeing him everywhere, he haunts her, making her see things… like him? Or is he truly following her everywhere she goes?

As Velaney tries to enjoy her getaway with Eric as they visit his family and home town, the nagging feeling that she is being watched still lingers around her. Despite the interrupted thought of a looming Aiden, Velaney tries and mostly enjoy her stay, and the family love and bond that Eric’s family enjoys, something she has never experience with her own family. She really likes even though it is foreign to her how accepting, affectionate and kind everyone in Eric’s family is towards not only each other but towards her as well.

During their stay Eric encounters or is reminded of his own past ghost and baggage. Things from Eric’s past creep up on him and he has a hard time shaking the memories, that eventually come out and he must confront them if he wants to have a healthy and forthcoming relationship with Velaney. But before he can be truly honest about it and purge the heavy load off his shoulders, Eric and Velaney’s love will be tested as a new wave of conflict, struggles and opposed opinions on a subject that has been sprung up on them will test the waters, especially for Eric, as his past demons are eating at him he has to see if he is strong enough to relent and stand by Velaney in a decision she made that he is not on board with.

When things seem to be heading in the right direction once again, happiness and love are at a full bloom, comes a new wave of torment testing the strength and love between Velaney and Eric. My oh my I wondered thought their struggles “Can’t these two catch a break!”They hardly get on track to be bumped right off again.

I really liked how we get to be more in tune with Eric, Brooke lets us in his head. And boy oh boy is this man a saint of patience and love. Velaney’s insecurities and brokenness really could test the patience of a saint and in this case it is Eric, and there is no doubt that he truly loves her and would do anything for her. He will prove it to her time and time again. He really is swoon worthy.

I had a hard time connecting with Velaney, maybe it was her neediness and her struggle to see what she really wanted and needed and that she was worth it. I do how ever understand where she was coming from, she didn’t have it easy so it was hard for her to open up and see true happiness.

Things will happen to both characters that really is terrible and sad, but somethings no matter how hard they are have a reason and a purpose to why they happened. But do not fret Eric and Velaney’s love is strong and they will find their way out of the torment.

I did find myself entertained by the plot and the characters, it was well written and stayed true to it’s storyline from Spark and continued surprising and thrilling us in Burn.