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From the Ashes
An Age Gap Gay Romance
Can true love rise from the ashes of heartbreak? Myles
After suffering the tragic loss of my wife, my lone goal was to raise our son to be a man she would be proud of.
Romance was the furthest thing from my mind, and unfortunately cooking was not on my mind either.
When Christmas dinner goes up in flames, a firefighter who looks like he stepped right off a calendar bursts through my door and all my priorities change in an instant.
New feelings emerge as I find myself attracted to a man for the first time.
But Landon is a much younger man who thrives on no-strings-attached hook-ups.
How can I risk my heart, and my son’s, by bringing someone into our lives knowing he's going to leave? Landon
I don't believe in labels, or denying myself sexual pleasure with a consenting partner, regardless of gender.
Want to hook up with a hot firefighter?
I’m your guy.
But relationships aren't my thing… until a fateful Christmas Day fire brings Myles into my life.
I thought I could ease the widower into the dating scene and guide him through his bi-awakening.
Yet as soon as I see him dating other guys I realize this is no fling.
I want him all to myself. age gap, hurt/comfort, bi-awakening, single dad, size difference, found family .
Expected to be released on November '23.
Can true love rise from the ashes of heartbreak? Myles
After suffering the tragic loss of my wife, my lone goal was to raise our son to be a man she would be proud of.
Romance was the furthest thing from my mind, and unfortunately cooking was not on my mind either.
When Christmas dinner goes up in flames, a firefighter who looks like he stepped right off a calendar bursts through my door and all my priorities change in an instant.
New feelings emerge as I find myself attracted to a man for the first time.
But Landon is a much younger man who thrives on no-strings-attached hook-ups.
How can I risk my heart, and my son’s, by bringing someone into our lives knowing he's going to leave? Landon
I don't believe in labels, or denying myself sexual pleasure with a consenting partner, regardless of gender.
Want to hook up with a hot firefighter?
I’m your guy.
But relationships aren't my thing… until a fateful Christmas Day fire brings Myles into my life.
I thought I could ease the widower into the dating scene and guide him through his bi-awakening.
Yet as soon as I see him dating other guys I realize this is no fling.
I want him all to myself. age gap, hurt/comfort, bi-awakening, single dad, size difference, found family .
Expected to be released on November '23.
302 pages, Paperback
Published November 9, 2023
40 people are currently reading
131 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
November 27, 2023
This was a very emotional and touching story of two broken souls that found each other when they least expected it and I enjoyed it very much.
Miles lost his wife a year ago and he is a full time dad at the moment taking a break from working. Tristan is his neighbour, a firefighter that lost his parents to a fire and who had never wanted to get close to anybody else afraid to go through loss again. They meet when Miles almost burns his kitchen and then the connection happens.
This book was so beautiful. I love when there are kids involved. Phoenix, Miles's son, was so sweet and made Tristan realise he did want a family after all. I loved how Tristan felt from the beginning that Miles and Nix were his and he felt towards them. He hadn't been looking for love or a relationship but he had no problem embracing it when he developed feelings for Miles.
Miles on the other hand took a little longer to come to terms with his just discovered bisexuality. He was love starved and just wanted to have someone to share the burdens of life. Tristan was his support, his friend and eventually his lover. It was everything he needed and more.
I loved this book very much. It involved so many feelings and emotions, it was beautiful but also tough at times. Dealing with the loss of a lost one is difficult and everybody needs their time. I enjoyed watching Miles get out of his pain to enjoy life once again. The evolution of both characters is great and Nix just added that sweetness that only kids bring to the stories.
This book has some of my favourite tropes, being one of them the age gap between the MCs, but it also is a fantastic love story with all the good feelings and heartwarming moments.
Miles lost his wife a year ago and he is a full time dad at the moment taking a break from working. Tristan is his neighbour, a firefighter that lost his parents to a fire and who had never wanted to get close to anybody else afraid to go through loss again. They meet when Miles almost burns his kitchen and then the connection happens.
This book was so beautiful. I love when there are kids involved. Phoenix, Miles's son, was so sweet and made Tristan realise he did want a family after all. I loved how Tristan felt from the beginning that Miles and Nix were his and he felt towards them. He hadn't been looking for love or a relationship but he had no problem embracing it when he developed feelings for Miles.
Miles on the other hand took a little longer to come to terms with his just discovered bisexuality. He was love starved and just wanted to have someone to share the burdens of life. Tristan was his support, his friend and eventually his lover. It was everything he needed and more.
I loved this book very much. It involved so many feelings and emotions, it was beautiful but also tough at times. Dealing with the loss of a lost one is difficult and everybody needs their time. I enjoyed watching Miles get out of his pain to enjoy life once again. The evolution of both characters is great and Nix just added that sweetness that only kids bring to the stories.
This book has some of my favourite tropes, being one of them the age gap between the MCs, but it also is a fantastic love story with all the good feelings and heartwarming moments.
November 23, 2023
This was a lovely story about two broken men finding a second chance. Single dad Myles is still coming to terms with losing his wife on valentine Day. He is not the best cook but tries to make a Christmas meal for himself and his son but it burns. Firefighter Landon comes to his neighbour's rescue and it's the start of their friendship. Landon has his own trauma after losing his parents in a fire when he was younger. They start spending a lot of time together and Landon helps Myles explore his bisexuality and encourage him to date, however it turns out that he really wants him for himself. But they both have a lot of work to do on themselves before they can commit properly together. It was a sweet story about two men healing and finding 😊.
November 11, 2023
4 stars
Tristan is 28 and he's a firefighter, he lost his parents and he went into foster care, he dedicated his life to save others'; he never dates or get attached to anyone and he keps his sexuality to himself.
Myles is 42 and he lost his wife 10 motnhs prior to the beginning of the story; he left his job as sport agent to take care of his son, the adorable Phoenix, 7 years old. He's still drowing in grief and he's not ready to move on.
Tristan and Myles meet during an accident involving a burning pan and find themselves comfortable in each other's company. Their friendship starts a little tentative, but grows stronger every day.
Myles feels like Tristan is finally filling a void in his life, making him whole again; Tristan is unexpectedly tied not only to Myles, but also to little Nix, like they were the family he's been craving his whole life (Tristan and Nix's bond is so precious).
A lot of feelings are involved in this story, on one hand there are happiness, joy, laughter and sexual attraction, on the other there are insecurity, fear, miscommunication and pain.
Their story is not easy and, despite I generally don't like pining very much, I feel like in this relationship it was inevitable because they both believed they couldn't be enough for one another.
The sex scenes are hot but also very emotional, especially their first time.
All the moment involving Nix are so amazing, I loved the little guy (and actually, two of the best moments of this book involve him).
A lot of great supportive characters here, like Myles' parents in law, Steph (finally a female best friend who respect boundaries) and the guys at the firehouse, especially Nick (dear Denver Shaw, are you going to give us his story too?).
What prevented me from giving 5 stars:
- Myles' sexual awakening was too sudden, in my opinion, especially for a man who's never been attracted to another man before.
- I feel like a big revelation was glossed over in the end.
The epilogue is very very beautiful and I beg the author to write a bonus scene about what was coming at the end.
Very recommended.
I received an ARC from the author and this is my honest review.
Tristan is 28 and he's a firefighter, he lost his parents and he went into foster care, he dedicated his life to save others'; he never dates or get attached to anyone and he keps his sexuality to himself.
Myles is 42 and he lost his wife 10 motnhs prior to the beginning of the story; he left his job as sport agent to take care of his son, the adorable Phoenix, 7 years old. He's still drowing in grief and he's not ready to move on.
Tristan and Myles meet during an accident involving a burning pan and find themselves comfortable in each other's company. Their friendship starts a little tentative, but grows stronger every day.
Myles feels like Tristan is finally filling a void in his life, making him whole again; Tristan is unexpectedly tied not only to Myles, but also to little Nix, like they were the family he's been craving his whole life (Tristan and Nix's bond is so precious).
A lot of feelings are involved in this story, on one hand there are happiness, joy, laughter and sexual attraction, on the other there are insecurity, fear, miscommunication and pain.
Their story is not easy and, despite I generally don't like pining very much, I feel like in this relationship it was inevitable because they both believed they couldn't be enough for one another.
The sex scenes are hot but also very emotional, especially their first time.
All the moment involving Nix are so amazing, I loved the little guy (and actually, two of the best moments of this book involve him).
A lot of great supportive characters here, like Myles' parents in law, Steph (finally a female best friend who respect boundaries) and the guys at the firehouse, especially Nick (dear Denver Shaw, are you going to give us his story too?).
What prevented me from giving 5 stars:
- Myles' sexual awakening was too sudden, in my opinion, especially for a man who's never been attracted to another man before.
- I feel like a big revelation was glossed over in the end.
The epilogue is very very beautiful and I beg the author to write a bonus scene about what was coming at the end.
Very recommended.
I received an ARC from the author and this is my honest review.
November 26, 2023
— 2 ⭑ || dnf @50%
“I'm trying to ignore the weird flutter of attraction I feel for him.“
- spoiler ig? —
I don't understand this book. They see each other and are attracted to each other everything ok so far, then nothing happens for a while, then they kiss, then nothing happens again, not even a certain tension or passion between them. Then one of them goes on a date, nothing happens again and suddenly they're fucking?
I thought I'd love this because it's a MM romance about a single dad, but there's absolutely nothing between the characters. I can't read about them having sex if they're just straight up bland. And i’m bored i mean 50% and nothing interesting is happening ?
maybe i’m too harsh but this does not make me want to finish it.
💌- thank you to the author for the arc in exchange for an honest review.
“I'm trying to ignore the weird flutter of attraction I feel for him.“
- spoiler ig? —
I don't understand this book. They see each other and are attracted to each other everything ok so far, then nothing happens for a while, then they kiss, then nothing happens again, not even a certain tension or passion between them. Then one of them goes on a date, nothing happens again and suddenly they're fucking?
I thought I'd love this because it's a MM romance about a single dad, but there's absolutely nothing between the characters. I can't read about them having sex if they're just straight up bland. And i’m bored i mean 50% and nothing interesting is happening ?
maybe i’m too harsh but this does not make me want to finish it.
💌- thank you to the author for the arc in exchange for an honest review.
November 17, 2023
Sweet emotional ride
This was an emotional book of both overcoming past trauma & a second chance at love after losing a loved one.
Both these men met during an accidental kitchen fire during the first Christmas without Myles' late wife.
I'm not sure who fell first but it was sweet to watch them turn their friendship into something more.
I don't normally do the feels, but the first time Nix called Tristan 'Daddy' gave me some feels.
I'm glad to see them overcome the obstacles they faced in their first year.
Definitely worth the read.
This was an emotional book of both overcoming past trauma & a second chance at love after losing a loved one.
Both these men met during an accidental kitchen fire during the first Christmas without Myles' late wife.
I'm not sure who fell first but it was sweet to watch them turn their friendship into something more.
I don't normally do the feels, but the first time Nix called Tristan 'Daddy' gave me some feels.
I'm glad to see them overcome the obstacles they faced in their first year.
Definitely worth the read.
April 29, 2025
Myles is a widower with a son Nix and he can't seem to get over his grief at the loss of his wife. He has a small fire in his apartment that his fire fighter neighbor Tristan puts out. There is so much angst in this book and some sweet and sexy times as Tristan helps Myles cope and move on while becoming attracted to the father and loving his son. Myles does lead Tristan on, only to pull back and then want more and I don't ever need to read the word "fugg" again but the sweet HEA is worth it. I received copy of this book through BookSirens and the this is my voluntary opinion.
November 15, 2023
"You helped me to rise from the ashes, sweetheart. You did that."
Myles and Tristan don't just rise from the ashes; they are absolute fire together in Denver Shaw's new release From the Ashes, which is out tomorrow (November 16th).
Widower Myles is trying his best for his seven-year-old son, Phoenix (Nix), on their first Christmas without Myles's wife, Cara. However, a cooking mishap causes a kitchen and leads him to his second love of his life.
Tristan is a firefighter and Myles's neighbour. After a gruelling shift, he goes home to sleep but wakes to blaring smoke alarms, rushing in to save his new neighbours.
Tristan has always kept himself alone, having lost his parents in a house fire at just 14. He has avoided close relationships or opening up to people again for fear of a future loss.
But Myles and Nix call to Tristan, and he loves spending time with them, falling for both of them along the way, so much so that they make him have dreams of being a family...
'I can't help but feel grateful for this chaotic, noisy, beautiful mess that I’d love to call family.'
When Myles starts dating, Tristan can't hide his jealousy, and thankfully, they soon both admit how they feel for one another.
"Tristan, I want you. All of you. And you're not leaving this apartment until you know how serious I am."
I loved the development of their relationship, as well as seeing the love grow between Tristan and Nix, with Nix even calling him 'Daddy'. That was such a sweet moment that brought tears to my eyes.
However, the path to true love doesn't always run smoothly, and these two faced quite a bump in the road... I was so sad to see them both hurting - especially Tristan, as I just fell so hard for him - but thankfully, they didn't take too long to see that they are meant to be together 🥰
"You brought joy back into my life, into Nix's life. You showed us both that love is possible after loss, that hope can prevail even in the darkest times."
I really enjoyed this book. It's sweet, it's very spicy - as I said, Tristan and Myles are fire 🔥I also enjoyed the supporting characters... is anyone else intrigued by Tristan's colleague, Nick?! I definitely am!
A thoroughly enjoyable read that will leave you with a big smile on your face... as well as hoping for a bonus scene for a certain event, please, Denver Shaw 🙏♥️
Many thanks to the author for the opportunity to ARC read this fantastic book.
What to expect:
🔥Bi-Awakening
👨🚒Hurt/Comfort
🚒Age Gap
🔥Single Dad
👨🚒Found Family
🚒Slow Burn
🔥Size Difference
Myles and Tristan don't just rise from the ashes; they are absolute fire together in Denver Shaw's new release From the Ashes, which is out tomorrow (November 16th).
Widower Myles is trying his best for his seven-year-old son, Phoenix (Nix), on their first Christmas without Myles's wife, Cara. However, a cooking mishap causes a kitchen and leads him to his second love of his life.
Tristan is a firefighter and Myles's neighbour. After a gruelling shift, he goes home to sleep but wakes to blaring smoke alarms, rushing in to save his new neighbours.
Tristan has always kept himself alone, having lost his parents in a house fire at just 14. He has avoided close relationships or opening up to people again for fear of a future loss.
But Myles and Nix call to Tristan, and he loves spending time with them, falling for both of them along the way, so much so that they make him have dreams of being a family...
'I can't help but feel grateful for this chaotic, noisy, beautiful mess that I’d love to call family.'
When Myles starts dating, Tristan can't hide his jealousy, and thankfully, they soon both admit how they feel for one another.
"Tristan, I want you. All of you. And you're not leaving this apartment until you know how serious I am."
I loved the development of their relationship, as well as seeing the love grow between Tristan and Nix, with Nix even calling him 'Daddy'. That was such a sweet moment that brought tears to my eyes.
However, the path to true love doesn't always run smoothly, and these two faced quite a bump in the road... I was so sad to see them both hurting - especially Tristan, as I just fell so hard for him - but thankfully, they didn't take too long to see that they are meant to be together 🥰
"You brought joy back into my life, into Nix's life. You showed us both that love is possible after loss, that hope can prevail even in the darkest times."
I really enjoyed this book. It's sweet, it's very spicy - as I said, Tristan and Myles are fire 🔥I also enjoyed the supporting characters... is anyone else intrigued by Tristan's colleague, Nick?! I definitely am!
A thoroughly enjoyable read that will leave you with a big smile on your face... as well as hoping for a bonus scene for a certain event, please, Denver Shaw 🙏♥️
Many thanks to the author for the opportunity to ARC read this fantastic book.
What to expect:
🔥Bi-Awakening
👨🚒Hurt/Comfort
🚒Age Gap
🔥Single Dad
👨🚒Found Family
🚒Slow Burn
🔥Size Difference
November 11, 2023
*ARC COPY BOOK REVIEW**
"It's about loving someone with all my heart and soul and hoping that love will be reciprocated. It's about being with someone who gets you, a person who sees you at your worst and knows all your faults but chooses to love you anyway, someone who is willing to tolerate you for the rest of your lives together."
What happens when you have a single dad with his own made up curse words..😂🤣..a precocious 7 year old and you have been grieving the loss of your late wife of 18 years...trying to make a Christmas meal the way she used to and you step away for a minute..and your fire alarm goes off and your next door neighbor is a single hot firefighter? A dad who is trying to figure out if he is ready to jump back into the dating world almost a year after her death...a firefighter who offers you no strings attached help back into dating.. and who seems to love the single life..that is until you dip your toe into the dating pool..and you notice the tense looks he starts to give when the subject comes up..and both of you have feelings that keep getting stronger...and the firefighter is completely in love with your son...and you both hide how you feel for reasons of your own..but the chemistry you both have is just pure unadulterated fire..and you both can't keep your hands to yourselves..and then finally you both give in and give this thing a try.
In the words of Myles, this is a fugging beautiful story of finding love again after loss and trying to move on with life..and be the best parent you can be at the same time..finding yourself..being open to those who love you..first times..that love is between two souls that connect and finding that one person who makes your world complete..there are moments of hurt but it is so needed for both Myles and Tristan to be able to face their inner struggles and issues.
"It's about loving someone with all my heart and soul and hoping that love will be reciprocated. It's about being with someone who gets you, a person who sees you at your worst and knows all your faults but chooses to love you anyway, someone who is willing to tolerate you for the rest of your lives together."
What happens when you have a single dad with his own made up curse words..😂🤣..a precocious 7 year old and you have been grieving the loss of your late wife of 18 years...trying to make a Christmas meal the way she used to and you step away for a minute..and your fire alarm goes off and your next door neighbor is a single hot firefighter? A dad who is trying to figure out if he is ready to jump back into the dating world almost a year after her death...a firefighter who offers you no strings attached help back into dating.. and who seems to love the single life..that is until you dip your toe into the dating pool..and you notice the tense looks he starts to give when the subject comes up..and both of you have feelings that keep getting stronger...and the firefighter is completely in love with your son...and you both hide how you feel for reasons of your own..but the chemistry you both have is just pure unadulterated fire..and you both can't keep your hands to yourselves..and then finally you both give in and give this thing a try.
In the words of Myles, this is a fugging beautiful story of finding love again after loss and trying to move on with life..and be the best parent you can be at the same time..finding yourself..being open to those who love you..first times..that love is between two souls that connect and finding that one person who makes your world complete..there are moments of hurt but it is so needed for both Myles and Tristan to be able to face their inner struggles and issues.
November 28, 2023
Overall I really did enjoy reading this book I would recommend it to anyone that likes age gap, comfort/ hurt, and found family.
In this book, you have Myles grieving through the loss of his wife after she died in a car accident on Valentine’s Day. He struggles with the loss of his wife and he also is struggling a little bit with raising his son because he’s not the greatest cook and he still hasn’t properly grieved from losing his wife. But on Christmas Day, he decided to make dinner for him and his son but that did not work out so well because he started a little kitchen fire and his apartment. Then Tristan is a fire fighter and he lost his family at a young age. The one thing that Tristan does not do his relationships because he does not want to let somebody in because he’s so used to being alone. But on Christmas day, he woke up to a sound of a fire alarm going off from his neighbor, and that is how Myles and Tristan meet and their friendship grew from there and more throughout the book. What I like about the book is how easy they both connected with each other. The other thing that I like about the book is how Tristan except Myles has a son and how easy Tristan gets along with Myles and son. Throughout the book, there’s a little bit miscommunication, but it works itself out at the end of the book where you get to see how happy they all are. But also, I like about the book is how Myles took time to work on himself. After everything that’s happened to him he needed to learn to be by himself first before he could be in a relationship with somebody else. I also like about the book is how Tristan realizes he needs somebody in his life needs a family so he’s not alone.
In this book, you have Myles grieving through the loss of his wife after she died in a car accident on Valentine’s Day. He struggles with the loss of his wife and he also is struggling a little bit with raising his son because he’s not the greatest cook and he still hasn’t properly grieved from losing his wife. But on Christmas Day, he decided to make dinner for him and his son but that did not work out so well because he started a little kitchen fire and his apartment. Then Tristan is a fire fighter and he lost his family at a young age. The one thing that Tristan does not do his relationships because he does not want to let somebody in because he’s so used to being alone. But on Christmas day, he woke up to a sound of a fire alarm going off from his neighbor, and that is how Myles and Tristan meet and their friendship grew from there and more throughout the book. What I like about the book is how easy they both connected with each other. The other thing that I like about the book is how Tristan except Myles has a son and how easy Tristan gets along with Myles and son. Throughout the book, there’s a little bit miscommunication, but it works itself out at the end of the book where you get to see how happy they all are. But also, I like about the book is how Myles took time to work on himself. After everything that’s happened to him he needed to learn to be by himself first before he could be in a relationship with somebody else. I also like about the book is how Tristan realizes he needs somebody in his life needs a family so he’s not alone.
March 16, 2025
The story of Myles, a widow and single dad & Tristan, and not to forget Nix the light of Myles his existence, takes place over a period of a year.
Myles & Tristan start off as friends and Tristan wants to help Myles get out there and date again. Turns out they both find the other one is their match for love. These damaged, alightly broken men have both dealt with grieve and loss and their way to a hea is not as smooth of a process as it first seems to be. They both have to work to get where they want to be. And also to not be afraid to advocate for themselves and trust friends and family.
My one thing about this book, I found it could have been a bit shorter and more condensed if the author had scrapped a bit of the reorcurring inner turmoil & some to me repetive deacriptions. I can also see why she left those in since the MC's are struggling.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Myles & Tristan start off as friends and Tristan wants to help Myles get out there and date again. Turns out they both find the other one is their match for love. These damaged, alightly broken men have both dealt with grieve and loss and their way to a hea is not as smooth of a process as it first seems to be. They both have to work to get where they want to be. And also to not be afraid to advocate for themselves and trust friends and family.
My one thing about this book, I found it could have been a bit shorter and more condensed if the author had scrapped a bit of the reorcurring inner turmoil & some to me repetive deacriptions. I can also see why she left those in since the MC's are struggling.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 21, 2023
Both of these men are broken boys. Even at the age of 42 Myles has found himself starting over and it’s a scary thought letting someone new into his heart after the traffic passing of his wife. Tristan comes barging into their lives,quite literally, to save Christmas Day. It doesn’t hurt that he’s hot as he🏒🏒 and is a real life firefighter. The effect that this younger man has on Myles shocks him since he’s always considered himself to be straight. Tristan is here for hookups only, since the tragic fire that claimed everything he once knew, he doesn’t let anyone see every part of him. So he doesn't understand this yearning to let this older man see every part of him, he’s never had this feeling before. Both of these characters go through a lot of changes and growth throughout the book; this is a classic “I’ll help you get back into the dating scene” trope. I love jealousy in MM and we definitely get a dose of that here. And I can’t forget the 🔥🔥 there’s plenty of that! There’s just some things MM does so much better than MF-single parent trope. I loved having Nix in the book, how mature he is for his age, his relationship with Myles, Tristan and his grandparents. I really enjoyed this book. It’s the perfect time of year to pick this one up heading into the Christmas season, highly recommend!
December 2, 2023
Sweetness !!
Myles and Tristan were a cute read ! I've been reading Denvers books since the first and always enjoy them. This one was a bit different from the others. Alot softer, sweeter read in my opinion. My heart broke for Myles and Nix after loosing their mom/wife. I loved Tristan! He was alot of fun and I loved how he pulled Myles out of his slump and sadness. It's a perfect biawakening. Insta attraction read. The ending was the sweetest and super rewarding for these two guys who both deserved love and 2nd chances. Nix calling then dad and daddy at the end was super cute. Great story !
Myles and Tristan were a cute read ! I've been reading Denvers books since the first and always enjoy them. This one was a bit different from the others. Alot softer, sweeter read in my opinion. My heart broke for Myles and Nix after loosing their mom/wife. I loved Tristan! He was alot of fun and I loved how he pulled Myles out of his slump and sadness. It's a perfect biawakening. Insta attraction read. The ending was the sweetest and super rewarding for these two guys who both deserved love and 2nd chances. Nix calling then dad and daddy at the end was super cute. Great story !
November 11, 2023
This book is described as a low angst, low drama love story. We meet Myles after a disastrous Christmas dinner has Tristan literally barging in to save the day. Myles is a grieving widow, trying to stay sane for his son but it's hard when you miss the love of your life. Tristan has his own trauma and somehow these two take confort in each other. Once the relationship gets going they are hot together and the scenes are sexy. I will mention docking, because that is always a bonus. There is some angst to the story, just before they become sickly sweet we are thrown a curveball and the relationship becomes complicated. However, love can't keep them apart. The story takes place over a whole year and the epilogue brings it full circle with a HEA. Funny how much can change in a year and this book shows us this. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 29, 2023
Hope in the face of Guilt
💕 Two men, both with feelings of loss and guilt. Two men trying to make it in a world that left them with a big hole.
When Myles accidentally starts a small kitchen fire, it’s a great thing a hot firefighter lives next door. The way Tristan is with Myles’ son Phoenix is such a beautiful sight. Their relationship is so wholesome and so free.
The men try to navigate their age gap. Myles tries to navigate the ghost of his late wife. Things start going well, until new information comes out that could destroy the fragility of their new relationship.
I love how Denver digs into their emotional guilt and how they come together, with the help of Phoenix to move beyond to that beauty which they know they can be together. 💕
💕 Two men, both with feelings of loss and guilt. Two men trying to make it in a world that left them with a big hole.
When Myles accidentally starts a small kitchen fire, it’s a great thing a hot firefighter lives next door. The way Tristan is with Myles’ son Phoenix is such a beautiful sight. Their relationship is so wholesome and so free.
The men try to navigate their age gap. Myles tries to navigate the ghost of his late wife. Things start going well, until new information comes out that could destroy the fragility of their new relationship.
I love how Denver digs into their emotional guilt and how they come together, with the help of Phoenix to move beyond to that beauty which they know they can be together. 💕
November 28, 2023
Myles and Tristan starts out as neighbours with one epic, and fiery, meet cute and they then proceed to become a couple. Weirdly enough that process was both very simple and so complicated. It's a cute story, with an adorable little kid, and two lost men who find and heal each other. It's a very positive book overall, but it has his more serious side, depicting life's harder moments.
November 30, 2023
Absolutely loved this book. The way Tristan and Myles relationship is so not perfect but they end up being the best couple. Such an amazing book.
November 17, 2023
From the Ashes is a hurt/comfort story about Myles a widower with a son Nix and Tristan a firefighter. These characters really pull at your heart. Myles is having such a hard time following the death of his wife. Tristan doesn't believes in no strings attached hook ups. I loved how Denver Shaw brings characters to life. This is a bi awakening, age gap story. I would definitely recommend this book.
November 18, 2023
This is the first book that I have read from this author and it won’t be my last. Myles, and his son, Phoenix are trying to enjoy their first Christmas without his wife. When the fire alarm goes off, Tristan their neighbor and fire fighter, helps with the fire and with Nix’s burn. This is the start of their relationship that started as friends which quickly become more. Their story was told over a one year period to finally they’re happy ever after. Love the world building, great chemistry and heat.
November 17, 2023
Growing Past Grief
Tristan and Myles had a beautiful love. I loved watching their relationship grow. Especially when it came to Nix. I knew early on what wrench was gonna be thrown in, but I still wasn't prepared for the pain. Fear that emanates from grief is always the hardest to overcome. It took a bit of time, but they were able to work through the rough times and further strengthen their bond. I loved how inquisitive and accepting Nix was about everything. That little boy stole my heart forever.
Tristan and Myles had a beautiful love. I loved watching their relationship grow. Especially when it came to Nix. I knew early on what wrench was gonna be thrown in, but I still wasn't prepared for the pain. Fear that emanates from grief is always the hardest to overcome. It took a bit of time, but they were able to work through the rough times and further strengthen their bond. I loved how inquisitive and accepting Nix was about everything. That little boy stole my heart forever.
November 19, 2023
A beautiful story. The perfect amount of heat, along with a love story that had me feeling....
December 9, 2023
With every confession Myles makes, I want to put every one of his burdens on my back and bear it.
What you'll get:
Firefighters
Single dad
Widower
Age gap
Friends to lovers
Bisexual rep
Setting: Tennessee
I went way down a 9-1-1 fanfiction rabbit hole earlier this year and this ticked a bunch of boxes for what I was looking for. However, I will never forgive this author for subbing out f*ck for fugg and then using 'fugg' OUT LOUD during sex scenes.
What you'll get:
Firefighters
Single dad
Widower
Age gap
Friends to lovers
Bisexual rep
Setting: Tennessee
I went way down a 9-1-1 fanfiction rabbit hole earlier this year and this ticked a bunch of boxes for what I was looking for. However, I will never forgive this author for subbing out f*ck for fugg and then using 'fugg' OUT LOUD during sex scenes.
January 3, 2024
This could have been a really good book. Single Dad. Hot younger guy. Bi-sexual awakening. Age gap. All good tropes. But it just didn’t work. It was either too much (cringeworthy dialogue, repetitive rumination) or not enough (character development, relationship arc). And the lack of communication, especially towards the end, I almost didn’t finish it. Them breaking up over Tristan’s involvement in Myles’ wife’s failed rescue was the cherry on a bad Sundae.
I don’t like giving negative reviews because authors out so much of themselves into their work. But this book needed a good editor, one who could cut out half of it. Tighten up the story line and it would be something to recommend. The way it is now, not so much.
I don’t like giving negative reviews because authors out so much of themselves into their work. But this book needed a good editor, one who could cut out half of it. Tighten up the story line and it would be something to recommend. The way it is now, not so much.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 31, 2024
This story is ok, what I didn’t enjoy about the story (or I suppose follow) was Myles reaction to when he found out Tristan was one of the EMTs that had tried to save his wife. I would have thought, especially after everything Tristan does for him and his son, that he would have been grateful that this man he has feelings for tried to do everything he could to save his wife.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 1, 2025
When your amazingly hot and life-saving neighbour, the one you have literally only just met offers to help you there is no point saying no. Anyone offering to help another, even when they are complete strangers, is a hero to me. There is a little something you should perhaps know about this particular situation however.
Tristan is a firefighter and paramedic, a first responder. He has no family, only the brotherhood family of those who he work with, He is afraid of commiting, to falling in love, because of the potential of loss. He will always help another.
Myles is a single dad, it has been almost a year since his wife died and, after taking a break from working to raise his son he is still struggling, most especially when it comes to the kitchen. Cooking is not his forte.
When Myles leaves dinner cooking to shower he of course burns it, sets the fire alarms off and brings Tristan running from over the corridor. All is well and a tentative friendship begins. This leads to Myles opening himself up to Tristan, about his nerves, nerves about dating again. His wife was his one and only, what if he has forgotten how to kiss?! Tristan, kind man that he is, offers to help Myles practice and the story takes off!
This is an absolutely beautiful story that will tug at your heartstrings whilst also causing you to grin more broadly than you might have thought possible. The characters are fantastically developed, all of them not only Myles and Tristan. We learn about both their careers, their pasts, their thoughts for the future. There is some Little League Baseball, a bi-awakening, an age gap that I honestly don't think either of them notice and then there is Phoenix, Myles' son. He is an absolute treasure.
The whole story makes you feel good, it was written to do so and it does it with extra. This book feels like a beautiful, warm hug. There is friendship, found family, bi-awakening, pan sexuality, children, extended family, LGBTQ issues, baseball and there are cupcakes with an obscene amount of sprinkles. I read this one tucked under my duvet and it felt as though it was reaching out and hugging me, I felt nothing but joy and contentment.
Tristan is a firefighter and paramedic, a first responder. He has no family, only the brotherhood family of those who he work with, He is afraid of commiting, to falling in love, because of the potential of loss. He will always help another.
Myles is a single dad, it has been almost a year since his wife died and, after taking a break from working to raise his son he is still struggling, most especially when it comes to the kitchen. Cooking is not his forte.
When Myles leaves dinner cooking to shower he of course burns it, sets the fire alarms off and brings Tristan running from over the corridor. All is well and a tentative friendship begins. This leads to Myles opening himself up to Tristan, about his nerves, nerves about dating again. His wife was his one and only, what if he has forgotten how to kiss?! Tristan, kind man that he is, offers to help Myles practice and the story takes off!
This is an absolutely beautiful story that will tug at your heartstrings whilst also causing you to grin more broadly than you might have thought possible. The characters are fantastically developed, all of them not only Myles and Tristan. We learn about both their careers, their pasts, their thoughts for the future. There is some Little League Baseball, a bi-awakening, an age gap that I honestly don't think either of them notice and then there is Phoenix, Myles' son. He is an absolute treasure.
The whole story makes you feel good, it was written to do so and it does it with extra. This book feels like a beautiful, warm hug. There is friendship, found family, bi-awakening, pan sexuality, children, extended family, LGBTQ issues, baseball and there are cupcakes with an obscene amount of sprinkles. I read this one tucked under my duvet and it felt as though it was reaching out and hugging me, I felt nothing but joy and contentment.
November 19, 2023
🛑DNF
Tristan et Myles
Agegap
Pompier et père de famille
.
C'est une romance légère et sans angoisse.
Avec un manque accrue de profondeur.
A la moitié du livre. J'en avais déjà assez.
📖
Le véritable amour peut-il renaître des cendres d’un chagrin d’amour ?
- Myles
Après avoir subi la perte tragique de ma femme, mon seul objectif était d'élever notre fils pour qu'il devienne un homme dont elle serait fière.
La romance était la chose la plus éloignée de mon esprit, et malheureusement, la cuisine ne me préoccupait pas non plus.
Lorsque le dîner de Noël prend feu, un pompier qui semble tout droit sorti d'un calendrier fait irruption chez moi et toutes mes priorités changent en un instant.
De nouveaux sentiments émergent alors que je me sens attirée par un homme pour la première fois.
Mais Tristan est un homme beaucoup plus jeune qui prospère grâce aux relations sans conditions.
Comment puis-je risquer mon cœur et celui de mon fils en faisant venir quelqu'un dans nos vies en sachant qu'il va partir ?
- Tristan
Je ne crois pas aux étiquettes, ni au refus de me priver de plaisir sexuel avec un partenaire consentant, quel que soit son sexe.
Vous voulez rencontrer un pompier sexy ?
Je suis ton gars.
Mais les relations, ce n'est pas mon truc… jusqu'à ce qu'un incendie fatidique le jour de Noël amène Myles dans ma vie.
Je pensais pouvoir faciliter l'entrée du veuf dans la scène des rencontres et le guider dans son double éveil.
Pourtant, dès que je le vois sortir avec d’autres gars, je réalise que ce n’est pas une aventure.
Je le veux pour moi tout seul.
📕
Tristan et Myles
Agegap
Pompier et père de famille
.
C'est une romance légère et sans angoisse.
Avec un manque accrue de profondeur.
A la moitié du livre. J'en avais déjà assez.
📖
Le véritable amour peut-il renaître des cendres d’un chagrin d’amour ?
- Myles
Après avoir subi la perte tragique de ma femme, mon seul objectif était d'élever notre fils pour qu'il devienne un homme dont elle serait fière.
La romance était la chose la plus éloignée de mon esprit, et malheureusement, la cuisine ne me préoccupait pas non plus.
Lorsque le dîner de Noël prend feu, un pompier qui semble tout droit sorti d'un calendrier fait irruption chez moi et toutes mes priorités changent en un instant.
De nouveaux sentiments émergent alors que je me sens attirée par un homme pour la première fois.
Mais Tristan est un homme beaucoup plus jeune qui prospère grâce aux relations sans conditions.
Comment puis-je risquer mon cœur et celui de mon fils en faisant venir quelqu'un dans nos vies en sachant qu'il va partir ?
- Tristan
Je ne crois pas aux étiquettes, ni au refus de me priver de plaisir sexuel avec un partenaire consentant, quel que soit son sexe.
Vous voulez rencontrer un pompier sexy ?
Je suis ton gars.
Mais les relations, ce n'est pas mon truc… jusqu'à ce qu'un incendie fatidique le jour de Noël amène Myles dans ma vie.
Je pensais pouvoir faciliter l'entrée du veuf dans la scène des rencontres et le guider dans son double éveil.
Pourtant, dès que je le vois sortir avec d’autres gars, je réalise que ce n’est pas une aventure.
Je le veux pour moi tout seul.
📕
March 16, 2025
'I’m used to people staring at me like I’m something special. “Hot firefighter” is kind of a brand, and I’m ashamed to say I’ve played into it to get laid on more than one occasion. But something about the way Phoenix’s dad is staring at me feels different.
Disarming.'
I really loved this book. Tristan and Myles were so sweet together and I loved them both. Tristan's parents died in a fire, and he became a firefighter. It's ingrained in his system so much that when smoke from a grease fire from his neighbor's apartment invades his and wakes him up from an exhausted sleep, he immediately handles the situation. And poor Myles completely breaks down over his son getting burned, the fire, and losing his wife last Christmas. I like how kind and patient Tristan was with Myles's son Phoenix to calm him and treat his burned hand. Only seven years old but Nix's heart was so big and he really warmed up to Tristan. I loved that Myles felt so relaxed and trusting around Tristan.
I liked the way their relationship developed, Myles's bi-awakening and even though he was nervous, he trusted Tristan. The chemistry between them was hot! That first kiss scorching! The second time even better. Myles may be nervous about new experiences since his wife had been his only relationship, but Tristan was good for him. Tristan may be kind, cheerful, and flirty, but he hid his insecurities about not being good enough. These two were such a perfect match and exactly what the other needed. 5 stars.
Disarming.'
I really loved this book. Tristan and Myles were so sweet together and I loved them both. Tristan's parents died in a fire, and he became a firefighter. It's ingrained in his system so much that when smoke from a grease fire from his neighbor's apartment invades his and wakes him up from an exhausted sleep, he immediately handles the situation. And poor Myles completely breaks down over his son getting burned, the fire, and losing his wife last Christmas. I like how kind and patient Tristan was with Myles's son Phoenix to calm him and treat his burned hand. Only seven years old but Nix's heart was so big and he really warmed up to Tristan. I loved that Myles felt so relaxed and trusting around Tristan.
I liked the way their relationship developed, Myles's bi-awakening and even though he was nervous, he trusted Tristan. The chemistry between them was hot! That first kiss scorching! The second time even better. Myles may be nervous about new experiences since his wife had been his only relationship, but Tristan was good for him. Tristan may be kind, cheerful, and flirty, but he hid his insecurities about not being good enough. These two were such a perfect match and exactly what the other needed. 5 stars.
January 3, 2024
Myles and Tristan are both in need of some healing and maybe together, they can accomplish that. Myles has been struggling since the unexpected death of his wife. Almost a year later, and he is trying to keep it together not only for himself but his son Phoenix as well. And when Myles tries to cook them a nice Christmas dinner, well it doesn’t go according to plan. Up in smokes, he is surprised when his neighbor rushes through the door to help. Tristan is a firefighter and their hero. And the beginning of Myles waking up to the idea of love again. Myles loved his wife and met her when he was young but suddenly, meeting Tristan and getting to know him, makes him realize there was a part of himself that he didn’t know existed. And he wants to discover more but only with Tristan. If Tristan will let him in. Tristan lost his parents at a young age and doesn’t really have anyone in his life to call his own. He’s used to it. But meeting Myles and Nix, he wants a family. He wants to be their family. If he can let Myles in and tell him the truth about his feeling. It will take a lot for these two to overcome their fears and be willing to take that leap of faith but once they do, they may find what they were looking for after all. Another great story from Denver!
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
April 1, 2025
((3.5 rounded up to a 4))
When I read the blurb for this book I knew right away I wanted to read it. I am a sucker for a single dad romance and angst filled plot so I grabbed this when I saw it.
Unfortunately I didn't end up loving it, the pacing felt disjointed and the story felt rushed. I liked Myles and Tristan's characters and I think they made a lovely pair, Tristan's relationship with Phoenix was absolutely precious and I thought the dynamic between those two was so sweet. For me it felt like things developed between Myles and Tristan very quickly, there wasn't much of a build up or very much of them getting to know each other... One moment they were hanging out after dinner and then they are kissing each other and engaged in steamy times. If it was just that I think it could've worked out fine, however, after all that happened then they proceeded to pump the brakes very fast and distanced themselves from one another without much explanation.. it just felt like the angst was there as a filler instead of contributing to the overall storyline.
I liked the characters, I liked the idea behind the story, I loved how supportive Tristan's coworkers are of him and how they always have his back. I just didn't love the story as a whole, but that's just my opinion. If this book sounds good to you, please read it yourself!
When I read the blurb for this book I knew right away I wanted to read it. I am a sucker for a single dad romance and angst filled plot so I grabbed this when I saw it.
Unfortunately I didn't end up loving it, the pacing felt disjointed and the story felt rushed. I liked Myles and Tristan's characters and I think they made a lovely pair, Tristan's relationship with Phoenix was absolutely precious and I thought the dynamic between those two was so sweet. For me it felt like things developed between Myles and Tristan very quickly, there wasn't much of a build up or very much of them getting to know each other... One moment they were hanging out after dinner and then they are kissing each other and engaged in steamy times. If it was just that I think it could've worked out fine, however, after all that happened then they proceeded to pump the brakes very fast and distanced themselves from one another without much explanation.. it just felt like the angst was there as a filler instead of contributing to the overall storyline.
I liked the characters, I liked the idea behind the story, I loved how supportive Tristan's coworkers are of him and how they always have his back. I just didn't love the story as a whole, but that's just my opinion. If this book sounds good to you, please read it yourself!
November 16, 2023
Gosh, this was a great read with two very lovable characters, Myles and Tristian are so very easy to root for. I loved the emotion in their story, Myles’s grief over the death of his wife is still very raw. Tristan loves his job and work family but also seems quite lonely. Myles is struggling to make something positive out of his and son Phoenix’s first Christmas without his wife. A kitchen fire is the catalyst for bringing these three together, I’m saying three because Phoenix is such an integral part of their story. Sometimes it’s handy to have a firefighter for a neighbor, Tristan is able to rescue Myles and Nix. It’s a pretty perfect meeting and I loved seeing Tristian’s protective and caring side. I loved that there is plenty of emotion in this romance but not too much angst. The author tells their story over the course of a year, their evolution from neighbors to friends to lovers is beautifully written. I loved this technique which allowed time to really know and root for these two to get the ending they deserved.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
March 13, 2025
"Fugging amazing"
This was a beautiful touching story about getting a second chance at love and taking chances even though you're scared. And it shows how important communication is. You can never assume what you're partner is thinking/feeling, but have to be open and talk things through.
Myles, a widower with a young son, meet his next door neighbor Tristan, a firefighter with commitment issues, when he has a small accident in the kitchen at christmas time. They discover there is a crazy chemistry between them and become friends while Tristan help Myles getting back into the dating game. While traveling that road both men discover they really want to date each other, but both come with baggage that is difficult to manage.
After some bumps in the road and misunderstandings they find their way to a HEA.
This is a really great and lovely story. I just fell in love with Tristan and Myles. It was beautiful to see them fall in love and find a happily ever after.
I am a big fan of Denver Shaw and happily read all books I come across. So if you are a fan of firefighters (who isn't?), single dad's and hot steamy romances you should check this one out.
This was a beautiful touching story about getting a second chance at love and taking chances even though you're scared. And it shows how important communication is. You can never assume what you're partner is thinking/feeling, but have to be open and talk things through.
Myles, a widower with a young son, meet his next door neighbor Tristan, a firefighter with commitment issues, when he has a small accident in the kitchen at christmas time. They discover there is a crazy chemistry between them and become friends while Tristan help Myles getting back into the dating game. While traveling that road both men discover they really want to date each other, but both come with baggage that is difficult to manage.
After some bumps in the road and misunderstandings they find their way to a HEA.
This is a really great and lovely story. I just fell in love with Tristan and Myles. It was beautiful to see them fall in love and find a happily ever after.
I am a big fan of Denver Shaw and happily read all books I come across. So if you are a fan of firefighters (who isn't?), single dad's and hot steamy romances you should check this one out.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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