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Tres Fuegos #1
After the Fire
Three can only keep a secret if at least one of them is dead...
Victoria Aguirre Saenz has it all. She is one of the most successful lawyers in the city she was born and raised in and everything in her life has been planned to perfection by her socialite grandmother, Susana.
But when Victoria’s life is turned upside down on the eve of her wedding to one of Buenos Aires’s most eligible bachelors, she catches fire. The sparks that ignite take her on a journey she never expected, ending in the small town of Tres Fuegos, home to none other than the perfectly obnoxious (emphasis on perfect) Santiago Williams, her top rival from law school.
Victoria isn’t looking for answers, and when she discovers that her grandmother may have been hiding a huge family secret, she finds them anyway.
Victoria Aguirre Saenz has it all. She is one of the most successful lawyers in the city she was born and raised in and everything in her life has been planned to perfection by her socialite grandmother, Susana.
But when Victoria’s life is turned upside down on the eve of her wedding to one of Buenos Aires’s most eligible bachelors, she catches fire. The sparks that ignite take her on a journey she never expected, ending in the small town of Tres Fuegos, home to none other than the perfectly obnoxious (emphasis on perfect) Santiago Williams, her top rival from law school.
Victoria isn’t looking for answers, and when she discovers that her grandmother may have been hiding a huge family secret, she finds them anyway.
Kindle Edition
Published June 6, 2023
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews
May 31, 2023
This book was very intriguing to me. And while I did enjoy it, I wish that some parts were shortened and that the end was longer because it felt like an abrupt ending, although it is easy to determine how it would end due to all the build-up throughout the book.
Even though I wish certain parts were shortened, the small flashback chapters were placed in perfect position, and it's straightforward to follow along with the story and to get right back into the present without being confused.
Victoria is a corporate lawyer whose life was always rubbed by her awful grandmother Susana. On the day of Victoria's wedding, she runs off to a new town without anyone knowing after being sent a photo of her fiancé cheating on her. While she learns later that she dodged the bullet with her ex-fiancé, her grandmother is pissed off that she would do this to the family and ruin the lives that her grandmother built for them.
Quickly shutting out everyone she knows so she has time to recuperate after the shit show blew up in her face, she runs into her old law school nemesis Santiago. Ever since she stepped into this tiny town, Santiago has been everywhere, and she can't escape him. While Victoria is always hot and cold with Santiago, they grow close as Victoria uncovers that the major childhood story about what happened to her grandfather was all a lie.
Over time, Victoria breaks out of her grandmother's control, figures out the truth about her grandfather, and realizes that she can let herself fall in love. This book was quite an adventure!
thank you for the arc in exchange for an honest review, mwahh 💋
Even though I wish certain parts were shortened, the small flashback chapters were placed in perfect position, and it's straightforward to follow along with the story and to get right back into the present without being confused.
Victoria is a corporate lawyer whose life was always rubbed by her awful grandmother Susana. On the day of Victoria's wedding, she runs off to a new town without anyone knowing after being sent a photo of her fiancé cheating on her. While she learns later that she dodged the bullet with her ex-fiancé, her grandmother is pissed off that she would do this to the family and ruin the lives that her grandmother built for them.
Quickly shutting out everyone she knows so she has time to recuperate after the shit show blew up in her face, she runs into her old law school nemesis Santiago. Ever since she stepped into this tiny town, Santiago has been everywhere, and she can't escape him. While Victoria is always hot and cold with Santiago, they grow close as Victoria uncovers that the major childhood story about what happened to her grandfather was all a lie.
Over time, Victoria breaks out of her grandmother's control, figures out the truth about her grandfather, and realizes that she can let herself fall in love. This book was quite an adventure!
thank you for the arc in exchange for an honest review, mwahh 💋
May 30, 2023
Thanks so much to Maria Rigou for sharing the ARC with me! I had such a fun time following Victoria on her journey of finding herself!
Tropes: reverse grumpy x sunshine, golden retriever mmc, small-town romance, Latin rep, family secrets and mystery, runaway bride, academic rivals
After the Fire follows Victoria as her whole world seems to flip upside down. This story is about heartbreak and healing, friendship and love, figuring out a family mystery and ultimately understanding and finding yourself when it seems your world is up in flames.
Santiago was by far my favorite character! He is so sweet and loyal, def golden retriever energy. I think he was perfect for Victoria and was able to help her see how amazing and beautiful she is.
I also appreciated getting to read Susana’s flashbacks. Susana is such a complicated character and it was really hard to understand her in the present tense but getting to see her flashbacks really helped depict who she was as a character and why she is the way she is.
There were some things that I noticed and/or would’ve liked to see. Sometimes I felt like details were repeated a lot and at times it felt like we were told a lot but not shown a lot. I would’ve liked to see more banter or comedic relief but that’s a personal preference.
Overall, I really enjoyed the adventure this book takes us on! I felt it was inspiring and reflective and I think everyone can relate to this book on some level. Congrats to Maria on her debut novel! available to read on KU June 6th, 2023!! ✨
Tropes: reverse grumpy x sunshine, golden retriever mmc, small-town romance, Latin rep, family secrets and mystery, runaway bride, academic rivals
After the Fire follows Victoria as her whole world seems to flip upside down. This story is about heartbreak and healing, friendship and love, figuring out a family mystery and ultimately understanding and finding yourself when it seems your world is up in flames.
Santiago was by far my favorite character! He is so sweet and loyal, def golden retriever energy. I think he was perfect for Victoria and was able to help her see how amazing and beautiful she is.
I also appreciated getting to read Susana’s flashbacks. Susana is such a complicated character and it was really hard to understand her in the present tense but getting to see her flashbacks really helped depict who she was as a character and why she is the way she is.
There were some things that I noticed and/or would’ve liked to see. Sometimes I felt like details were repeated a lot and at times it felt like we were told a lot but not shown a lot. I would’ve liked to see more banter or comedic relief but that’s a personal preference.
Overall, I really enjoyed the adventure this book takes us on! I felt it was inspiring and reflective and I think everyone can relate to this book on some level. Congrats to Maria on her debut novel! available to read on KU June 6th, 2023!! ✨
July 10, 2023
Definitely 4.5! Those Gilmore Girl vibes were there! The family issues, romance, and that spice we all wanted! Many twists and when reverse grumpy sunshine? Loved it!
Want to read
September 11, 2023Anyone has safety info?
June 6, 2023
I think as a debut novel, this author did a great job. While I really enjoyed this story, the actual plot pieces and characterizations need a bit of work. The story could have been been shortened some and the characters could have been better fleshed out. I felt like the same things kept on being repeated and Victoria was continually hot and cold concerning Santiago. The fact that they knew each other in law school and she clearly disliked him, but he had been pining for her for 10 years was a little…out there. Overall the storyline concerning her (awful) grandmother was good, but the entire book needs a good story editor. I would absolutely read other books by this author because I think the bones of her writing are very good and I’m excited to see what else they write.
May 28, 2023
This book truly surprised me- in the best way possible! this is no where near my typical genre but i gave it a go and wow! it kept me on my feet and wanting to know more about the development of the characters and their relationships from the beginning! i did not want it to end. enjoyed it so much! i think i found my new favorite book boyfriend- Santiago 😊
July 6, 2023
I got this book as an ARC and I can’t wait for the world to read Maria. It has the perfect amount of everything: romance, sadness, angst, family issues. It’s a light read but it leaves behind an invaluable lesson: that no matter the past, we are the masters of our future. Can’t wait to read more of this author.
May 27, 2025
I mean, I think it’s pretty great. Quick read. Santiago is the best.
June 17, 2023
After the fire is a romance set in a small town in Córdoba called Tres fuegos.
The truth is that lately I'm having a hard time reading and getting really hooked, but I read this book in less than three days and I really enjoyed it.
The book takes Victoria as its protagonist, a lawyer who flees to Córdoba after learning that she was cheated on the day of her wedding; but, although it seems that her life has taken a nosedive, she meets an old enemy from the university who could make her see things differently. She also could know things from her past and her family that would never have occurred to her.
As I said, I read this novel very quickly. It contains mystery and romance, although nothing too over the top. The relationship between Victoria and Santiago, the enemy of the university, turns from an old rivalry to a friendship and potentially a romance. Victoria was a very real character to me, she shows what it is to live with the family mandate and the weight that she has the idea of "because I am your family you owe me respect." I liked how she, despite her fear, tries to get ahead with the few people who don't treat her like dirt for leaving her fiancé after cheating. I think that her story and her relationship with Santi is well built, plus he also is lovely from beginning to end.
If you are looking for a pleasant but intense read, with romance and mystery and the tropes of found familiy, enemies to friends to lovers and romance in a small town, I definitely recommend it.
The truth is that lately I'm having a hard time reading and getting really hooked, but I read this book in less than three days and I really enjoyed it.
The book takes Victoria as its protagonist, a lawyer who flees to Córdoba after learning that she was cheated on the day of her wedding; but, although it seems that her life has taken a nosedive, she meets an old enemy from the university who could make her see things differently. She also could know things from her past and her family that would never have occurred to her.
As I said, I read this novel very quickly. It contains mystery and romance, although nothing too over the top. The relationship between Victoria and Santiago, the enemy of the university, turns from an old rivalry to a friendship and potentially a romance. Victoria was a very real character to me, she shows what it is to live with the family mandate and the weight that she has the idea of "because I am your family you owe me respect." I liked how she, despite her fear, tries to get ahead with the few people who don't treat her like dirt for leaving her fiancé after cheating. I think that her story and her relationship with Santi is well built, plus he also is lovely from beginning to end.
If you are looking for a pleasant but intense read, with romance and mystery and the tropes of found familiy, enemies to friends to lovers and romance in a small town, I definitely recommend it.
May 23, 2025
Love this book only reason why took me as long was because of working nonstop! Definitely surprised me in some parts especially the fact that Susanna just ran away after the fire started and didn’t help Roberto get out. The book and watching Victoria struggle but overcome the ability to be herself and not under the control of Susanna. Thank you again for the book onto the second one I go ❤️❤️❤️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 3, 2023
Small town romance in Argentina ✨
I loved this book. Maria Rigou delivered a sweet romance that gave me telenovela vibes that explored complex familial relationships as well as love all while in a beautiful mountain town of Argentina!
Tropes: reverse grumpy & sunshine, rivals to lovers, small town romance, slow burn, one spicy scene & a lot of sass!
I can’t wait for the next to come out!!
I loved this book. Maria Rigou delivered a sweet romance that gave me telenovela vibes that explored complex familial relationships as well as love all while in a beautiful mountain town of Argentina!
Tropes: reverse grumpy & sunshine, rivals to lovers, small town romance, slow burn, one spicy scene & a lot of sass!
I can’t wait for the next to come out!!
Want to read
July 19, 2023🎁 FREE on Amazon today (7/19/2023)! 🎁
July 20, 2023
I don't even know what to say, this book was so seriously so special and unique.
Victoria's story is not an ordinary love story as you know it, all her life she was modeled how to behave and act around other people. Everything was going well until to the point when on her wedding day she found out that her future husband was cheating on her.
The process and changing of Victoria's emotional state was something very special to experience, to see how she grew out of herself and at the end began to live for herself and not for others made me feel all the emotions.
This book is for people who are used to please people and to put their own needs among those of others. You only live once, live for yourself and enjoy your decisions. Its totally okay if some things dont work out, thats life.
Victoria's story is not an ordinary love story as you know it, all her life she was modeled how to behave and act around other people. Everything was going well until to the point when on her wedding day she found out that her future husband was cheating on her.
The process and changing of Victoria's emotional state was something very special to experience, to see how she grew out of herself and at the end began to live for herself and not for others made me feel all the emotions.
This book is for people who are used to please people and to put their own needs among those of others. You only live once, live for yourself and enjoy your decisions. Its totally okay if some things dont work out, thats life.
June 24, 2023
2.5 ⭐️
First and foremost, thank you for sending me your book Maria. I’m grateful!
Now on to the story.
I had high hopes, I really did. But this book became very repetitive, and Victoria hated Santiago for no reason. He was such an Angel. She was so rude all the time. It goes from enemies to boom he’s kissing her forehead and holding her hand out of the blue. Santi deserved better.
The mystery… I figured out what happened within like the first 15%. And granted it wasn’t anything huge, but still. I liked the mystery side of the book better than the romance. I will say that.
This book could’ve been 3, or even 3.5 if Susana had been held accountable for her actions or something happened. Because she was down right evil. She truly got away with so much shit, bc she’s family. And in the end? Nada. I feel like there was so much that was left unsaid.
A lot of parts felt like they could’ve been longer, and other shorter.
This is in no way a reflection of the writing tho. I really liked Maria’s writing. This is Maria’s debut novel, and I can totally see people loving this, but it lacked for me.
First and foremost, thank you for sending me your book Maria. I’m grateful!
Now on to the story.
I had high hopes, I really did. But this book became very repetitive, and Victoria hated Santiago for no reason. He was such an Angel. She was so rude all the time. It goes from enemies to boom he’s kissing her forehead and holding her hand out of the blue. Santi deserved better.
The mystery… I figured out what happened within like the first 15%. And granted it wasn’t anything huge, but still. I liked the mystery side of the book better than the romance. I will say that.
This book could’ve been 3, or even 3.5 if Susana had been held accountable for her actions or something happened. Because she was down right evil. She truly got away with so much shit, bc she’s family. And in the end? Nada. I feel like there was so much that was left unsaid.
A lot of parts felt like they could’ve been longer, and other shorter.
This is in no way a reflection of the writing tho. I really liked Maria’s writing. This is Maria’s debut novel, and I can totally see people loving this, but it lacked for me.
November 16, 2023
Thank you to @reedsy.discovery for the e-ARC. Original & full review posted there June 2023. All opinions are my own.
Victoria's life has hit its peak & seems to be going perfectly. Until the morning of her wedding, when an anonymous texter sends her a photo of her soon-to-be husband cheating on her. With no plan, she flees the wedding & her grandmother Susana's control to gain some clarity & think through her next steps, ending up in the (fictional) town of Tres Fuegos, which happens to be the home of her nemesis from law school, Santiago Williams.
Touching on multiple genres -- romance, contemporary fiction, & a hint of mystery -- After the Fire is a quick & enjoyable read. It carries themes of love, strong friendship, self-discovery & healing, & even a little family mystery thrown in. Victoria's penchant for running from her problems is a classic move that many will find relatable.
This is a decent debut & worth reading, but it could benefit from some editing.
Pros:
❤️🔥Enemies to lovers romance. One of my favorite tropes!
🐕Cinnamon roll/golden retriever energy hero. Santiago is such a lovable character.
💜Awesome & supportive best friend, Catalina.
🏘Small town romance.
😱Family drama and secrets.
I also appreciated Susana's few flashback chapters from her perspective. It helped me understand her character a bit more & why she made the choices she did, whether or not they are agreeable or likable.
Overall pacing was good & I was able to finish in just two sittings. It kept me turning the pages.
Cons:
💬Dialogue is clunky at times & I had to go back & reread to make sure I didn't miss something.
✏️Some writing is redundant. Victoria would think something in her head & immediately say that exact thing, so adding her thinking it was unnecessary.
🔥Repetitive references to fire & flame -- yes, an overall theme of the book, but the diction needs some editing.
💕Romance was adorable, but their attraction & falling for each other needs some more development.
🤔The reason for their third act breakup had me scratching my head.
🔚Ending is abrupt & needs expansion.
I would read more by this author in the future.
Victoria's life has hit its peak & seems to be going perfectly. Until the morning of her wedding, when an anonymous texter sends her a photo of her soon-to-be husband cheating on her. With no plan, she flees the wedding & her grandmother Susana's control to gain some clarity & think through her next steps, ending up in the (fictional) town of Tres Fuegos, which happens to be the home of her nemesis from law school, Santiago Williams.
Touching on multiple genres -- romance, contemporary fiction, & a hint of mystery -- After the Fire is a quick & enjoyable read. It carries themes of love, strong friendship, self-discovery & healing, & even a little family mystery thrown in. Victoria's penchant for running from her problems is a classic move that many will find relatable.
This is a decent debut & worth reading, but it could benefit from some editing.
Pros:
❤️🔥Enemies to lovers romance. One of my favorite tropes!
🐕Cinnamon roll/golden retriever energy hero. Santiago is such a lovable character.
💜Awesome & supportive best friend, Catalina.
🏘Small town romance.
😱Family drama and secrets.
I also appreciated Susana's few flashback chapters from her perspective. It helped me understand her character a bit more & why she made the choices she did, whether or not they are agreeable or likable.
Overall pacing was good & I was able to finish in just two sittings. It kept me turning the pages.
Cons:
💬Dialogue is clunky at times & I had to go back & reread to make sure I didn't miss something.
✏️Some writing is redundant. Victoria would think something in her head & immediately say that exact thing, so adding her thinking it was unnecessary.
🔥Repetitive references to fire & flame -- yes, an overall theme of the book, but the diction needs some editing.
💕Romance was adorable, but their attraction & falling for each other needs some more development.
🤔The reason for their third act breakup had me scratching my head.
🔚Ending is abrupt & needs expansion.
I would read more by this author in the future.
September 17, 2023
2.75 ⭐️
I love the story and the plot line, i think it had so much potential, but the flow and the pacing threw me off. I felt very confused and like i was having whiplash with the female main characters change in emotions. it felt choppy and repetitive. i also didn’t feel much chemistry between the main characters. their intimacy sorta came out of nowhere?
but. i enjoyed the mystery aspect and this was a quick read! I would be interested in trying some of her future books!
I love the story and the plot line, i think it had so much potential, but the flow and the pacing threw me off. I felt very confused and like i was having whiplash with the female main characters change in emotions. it felt choppy and repetitive. i also didn’t feel much chemistry between the main characters. their intimacy sorta came out of nowhere?
but. i enjoyed the mystery aspect and this was a quick read! I would be interested in trying some of her future books!
August 18, 2023
DNF 30% I thought I would enjoy it because it has my favorite trope: enemies to lovers and academic rivals, but this book was in fact not enemies to lovers. Instead, it was just Victoria hating on Santiago for no reason at all besides that fact that he’s cheerful and smiley? Like what? From when they were back in law school to when they meet each other again in his hometown, he has been nothing but nice to her but she’s so rude to him.
Victoria had no backbone when it came to Susanna even though she continuously mentions how micromanaging and toxic Susanna is but never once had the courage to stand up to her? I would assume that by the end of the book, she does say something to Susanna but I couldn’t wait until then. I did think having Susanna’s POV was a nice change as opposed to the POVs between the lovers.
The mystery aspect took me by surprise. I mean, Victoria got cheated on by her fiancé but instead of worrying about that, she goes full on out investigating her grandfather’s disappearance?? I didn’t even realize she cared that much about him.
I really do wish I enjoyed this book but unfortunately, this book was not for me.
Victoria had no backbone when it came to Susanna even though she continuously mentions how micromanaging and toxic Susanna is but never once had the courage to stand up to her? I would assume that by the end of the book, she does say something to Susanna but I couldn’t wait until then. I did think having Susanna’s POV was a nice change as opposed to the POVs between the lovers.
The mystery aspect took me by surprise. I mean, Victoria got cheated on by her fiancé but instead of worrying about that, she goes full on out investigating her grandfather’s disappearance?? I didn’t even realize she cared that much about him.
I really do wish I enjoyed this book but unfortunately, this book was not for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 21, 2024
I won’t lie I liked the idea of it but it was just a little all over the place and hard to follow for me
July 1, 2023
This story was a different type of love story throughout. It was unique as it was a Grandmother who helped raise her grand-daughter, Victoria and her brother, because the father was not up to it with the unexpected death of their mother while young. This lady was very controlling and demanding of Vee's love, obedience and admiration. Victoria's brother saw her and who she really was and rebelled against her from his teens to current time.
Victoria was to marry Manuel, someone she dated for 5 years and engaged to the last 2 years of their relationship. The day, morning of their wedding, Victoria was sent a text showing Manual with a blond and obviously cheating on Vee. She took her packed bag and left her, Susana, her demanding Sister who ruled the roost with her Grandmother. Victoria got a ride to the bus station and rode to a small town in Cordoba, where she met a handsome man from her college years fellow lawyer, Santiago. It took a while for Victoria to realize she's the only one who thought they were in constant conflicts. She and Santi saw each other and without Vee's domineering women telling her how to act and live she was able to be herself and see the real Santi, a friend and admirer who cares for her.
The story has numerous twists and turns when Vee's grandfather's life is brought out in the open and truth is shared about his life and problems he'd caused. Cata, Vee's sister-in-law was and remained her best friend and who supported her leaving on her wedding day and her life in Cordoba. Cata and Santi both love her and helped her escape the overbearing Susana and become Victoria.
This was a very interesting read with a lot of emotions and heartfelt storyline.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Victoria was to marry Manuel, someone she dated for 5 years and engaged to the last 2 years of their relationship. The day, morning of their wedding, Victoria was sent a text showing Manual with a blond and obviously cheating on Vee. She took her packed bag and left her, Susana, her demanding Sister who ruled the roost with her Grandmother. Victoria got a ride to the bus station and rode to a small town in Cordoba, where she met a handsome man from her college years fellow lawyer, Santiago. It took a while for Victoria to realize she's the only one who thought they were in constant conflicts. She and Santi saw each other and without Vee's domineering women telling her how to act and live she was able to be herself and see the real Santi, a friend and admirer who cares for her.
The story has numerous twists and turns when Vee's grandfather's life is brought out in the open and truth is shared about his life and problems he'd caused. Cata, Vee's sister-in-law was and remained her best friend and who supported her leaving on her wedding day and her life in Cordoba. Cata and Santi both love her and helped her escape the overbearing Susana and become Victoria.
This was a very interesting read with a lot of emotions and heartfelt storyline.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 2, 2023
the tropes are what initially drew me to wanting to read this book. you have enemies to lovers, small town romance, grumpy x sunshine, and runaway bride. nothing about this story was cliché or predictable.
reading victoria’s coming-of-age story was so gratifying. i loved that we got to witness her become more confident in herself. i related a lot to her need to please people and how she was a bit grumpy.
two words: santiago williams. this man is a new book boyfriend of mine. i fell head over heels in love with him from the very first scene that he was in. he’s the epitome of a good man, not just a good boyfriend. he’s kind, caring, selfless, attentive, and supportive. did i mention that he has tattoos? phew. the way he expressed his affection for victoria was everything to me.
maria rigou’s writing is beautiful and intricate. it’s evident that she has a gift for storytelling just from reading this book. i can tell how much heart and soul was put into this. there were so many quotes that i wanted to annotate because of how poetic and realistic they were.
i do have to say there was one thing that threw me off which was the switch to susanna’s POV from victoria’s. i was so captivated by victoria’s side of the story and it took me awhile to realize that i was reading the story from susanna’s POV.
the thing i love about romance novels is when the romance between the FMC and the MMC isn’t the main focus. i enjoyed the family dynamics and the friendship between victoria and catalina.
thank you so much maria rigou for sending me an ARC of your book!
rating: 4⭐️
reading victoria’s coming-of-age story was so gratifying. i loved that we got to witness her become more confident in herself. i related a lot to her need to please people and how she was a bit grumpy.
two words: santiago williams. this man is a new book boyfriend of mine. i fell head over heels in love with him from the very first scene that he was in. he’s the epitome of a good man, not just a good boyfriend. he’s kind, caring, selfless, attentive, and supportive. did i mention that he has tattoos? phew. the way he expressed his affection for victoria was everything to me.
maria rigou’s writing is beautiful and intricate. it’s evident that she has a gift for storytelling just from reading this book. i can tell how much heart and soul was put into this. there were so many quotes that i wanted to annotate because of how poetic and realistic they were.
i do have to say there was one thing that threw me off which was the switch to susanna’s POV from victoria’s. i was so captivated by victoria’s side of the story and it took me awhile to realize that i was reading the story from susanna’s POV.
the thing i love about romance novels is when the romance between the FMC and the MMC isn’t the main focus. i enjoyed the family dynamics and the friendship between victoria and catalina.
thank you so much maria rigou for sending me an ARC of your book!
rating: 4⭐️
May 18, 2024
“After the Fire: An Enemies to Lovers Small Town Romance (Tres Fuegos Book 1)” by Maria Rigou is a captivating romance novel set in a small town. The story revolves around Victoria Aguirre Saenz, a successful lawyer whose life takes an unexpected turn12.
Victoria’s life was meticulously planned by her socialite grandmother, Susana. However, on the eve of her wedding, Victoria’s life is upended, and she finds herself in the small town of Tres Fuegos2. Here, she encounters Santiago Williams, her nemesis from law school12.
The book explores themes of family secrets, self-discovery, and love. Victoria isn’t looking for answers, but when she discovers that her grandmother may have been hiding a significant family secret, she finds them anyway13.
Readers have praised the book for its engaging storyline and well-developed characters. One reviewer noted that the book was very intriguing and enjoyed the small flashback chapters, which were perfectly positioned2. However, they felt that some parts could have been shortened and that the ending seemed abrupt2.
Another reviewer appreciated the book’s exploration of dark family secrets and the journey of a runaway bride4. They found the book to be a spicy romance that kept them hooked4.
Overall, “After the Fire” is a compelling read for those who enjoy small-town romances, enemies-to-lovers tropes, and stories about uncovering family secrets124. It’s a story about our past, our present, and our future, and how the actions of those who preceded us have much more pull than we think1.
Victoria’s life was meticulously planned by her socialite grandmother, Susana. However, on the eve of her wedding, Victoria’s life is upended, and she finds herself in the small town of Tres Fuegos2. Here, she encounters Santiago Williams, her nemesis from law school12.
The book explores themes of family secrets, self-discovery, and love. Victoria isn’t looking for answers, but when she discovers that her grandmother may have been hiding a significant family secret, she finds them anyway13.
Readers have praised the book for its engaging storyline and well-developed characters. One reviewer noted that the book was very intriguing and enjoyed the small flashback chapters, which were perfectly positioned2. However, they felt that some parts could have been shortened and that the ending seemed abrupt2.
Another reviewer appreciated the book’s exploration of dark family secrets and the journey of a runaway bride4. They found the book to be a spicy romance that kept them hooked4.
Overall, “After the Fire” is a compelling read for those who enjoy small-town romances, enemies-to-lovers tropes, and stories about uncovering family secrets124. It’s a story about our past, our present, and our future, and how the actions of those who preceded us have much more pull than we think1.
May 13, 2023
The pacing of this book was perfect--once I started reading, I absolutely could not stop. Victoria is a successful corporate lawyer whose life has always been carefully constructed by her grandmother Susana. When her wedding day gets derailed by a mystery text message showing her fiancé in bed with another woman, she runs and ends up in a tiny town with an old law school nemesis. The tropes and plot devices may be familiar, but nothing about this novel was cliché. The writing was fresh and the direction new.
Watching Victoria slowly break out of her shell and reject her grandmother's control, all while trying to find a new path forward in her life, was so relatable to anyone who's ever been a people-pleaser (hint: it's me). And the steamy enemies-to-lovers action was 🧑🏼🍳 💋
A couple of minor points detracted from the strength of this story--repetitive phrasing or character movements being the main one. Also, the first chapter told from the grandmother's perspective caught me off-guard; I was so totally engrossed in Victoria's perspective that the switch to the grandmother in chapter 4 took me out of the story a bit. (Although really, I also should have slowed down to read the chapter title haha.).
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Watching Victoria slowly break out of her shell and reject her grandmother's control, all while trying to find a new path forward in her life, was so relatable to anyone who's ever been a people-pleaser (hint: it's me). And the steamy enemies-to-lovers action was 🧑🏼🍳 💋
A couple of minor points detracted from the strength of this story--repetitive phrasing or character movements being the main one. Also, the first chapter told from the grandmother's perspective caught me off-guard; I was so totally engrossed in Victoria's perspective that the switch to the grandmother in chapter 4 took me out of the story a bit. (Although really, I also should have slowed down to read the chapter title haha.).
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 13, 2023
After the Fire Review
Couple: Victoria Aguirre Saenz & Santiago
Author: Maria Rigou
Tropes: enemy to lover, small town, found family, dark family secrets, runaway bride
Review: This is a spicy romance of a runaway bride who learns more than she bargained for about her family. The book is a single POV romance written from Victoria’s POV.
I found myself enjoying this read but not being super drawn into the story. I liked how Santiago and Victoria grew their trust in one another but felt like she jerked him around a lot and played with his emotions to much. I was upset y this since she knew how it felt after she found her ex-fiancé cheating on her.
On the other hand, I could understand why she was leery to jump into another relationship. Especially since as she stays in the small town she ran off to she begins to learn how dark her family’s past is.
I was happy that we got chapters from Susana’s POV and that it unraveled all the dark secrets she tried to keep from her family. I found myself more emersed in how Susana hid everything from everyone than the romance at times.
This is a good mystery/romance that will keep you intrigued until the end.
Rating: 4/5, sweet and happy romance
Couple: Victoria Aguirre Saenz & Santiago
Author: Maria Rigou
Tropes: enemy to lover, small town, found family, dark family secrets, runaway bride
Review: This is a spicy romance of a runaway bride who learns more than she bargained for about her family. The book is a single POV romance written from Victoria’s POV.
I found myself enjoying this read but not being super drawn into the story. I liked how Santiago and Victoria grew their trust in one another but felt like she jerked him around a lot and played with his emotions to much. I was upset y this since she knew how it felt after she found her ex-fiancé cheating on her.
On the other hand, I could understand why she was leery to jump into another relationship. Especially since as she stays in the small town she ran off to she begins to learn how dark her family’s past is.
I was happy that we got chapters from Susana’s POV and that it unraveled all the dark secrets she tried to keep from her family. I found myself more emersed in how Susana hid everything from everyone than the romance at times.
This is a good mystery/romance that will keep you intrigued until the end.
Rating: 4/5, sweet and happy romance
June 17, 2023
After the Fire by Maria Rigou
I was new to this author and I must say I’m still not sure how I feel about the story. I waited to put my review out because I was unsure of how unfelt. I read the book twice and I just could t get into the story. I can’t pin point what or when but you kinda loose interest in the story. As a starter novel the author did a great job don’t get me wrong but there is just lacking. It needs some work because you just get uninterested as you read. I felt that Victoria was so wishy washy through out the book and the story was very repetitive. I didn’t like how Victoria was with Santiago she was so hot and cold it was pretty annoying. I think of the author would work on those things and maybe shorten some of the story to not be so repetitive it would be good the storyline is there it just needs work. I would however would love to continue to follow this author because like I said I enjoyed the storyline and it had great potential it just needed a little work but I just know this author will do great work after this first book and I love supporting new authors. So give this author a try it just may be the book for you.
I was new to this author and I must say I’m still not sure how I feel about the story. I waited to put my review out because I was unsure of how unfelt. I read the book twice and I just could t get into the story. I can’t pin point what or when but you kinda loose interest in the story. As a starter novel the author did a great job don’t get me wrong but there is just lacking. It needs some work because you just get uninterested as you read. I felt that Victoria was so wishy washy through out the book and the story was very repetitive. I didn’t like how Victoria was with Santiago she was so hot and cold it was pretty annoying. I think of the author would work on those things and maybe shorten some of the story to not be so repetitive it would be good the storyline is there it just needs work. I would however would love to continue to follow this author because like I said I enjoyed the storyline and it had great potential it just needed a little work but I just know this author will do great work after this first book and I love supporting new authors. So give this author a try it just may be the book for you.
July 30, 2023
¿Romance entre una gruñona que huye de su boda y el chico que le caía mal en la universidad (con personalidad de golden retriever) mientras que ella investiga sobre la verdad de su familia? ¡Una maravilla!
El libro trata sobre Victoria que se entera la mañana de su boda que su prometido le puso los cuernos así que huye de la ciudad de Buenos Aires, sin decirle a nadie, a cualquier otro pueblo de Argentina. Termina en “Tres Fuego”; un pequeño pueblo (inventado por la autora) en donde descubrirá secretos viejos de su familia y se reencontrará con el verdadero amor de su vida.
Necesito hablar más sobre Victoria porque esta chica... la amé. Se ganó completamente mi corazón porque ella es de esas protagonistas perdidas que buscan ser felices, buscan mejorar su vida porque se dan cuenta que tienen una vida que no quieren y allí es cuando comienza su desarrollo.
Luego está Santiago que es un amor y me ha hecho desear un montón una pareja como él. Me hubiera gustado muchísimo que hubiera más enfoque sobre él y algún POV suyo pero a medida que vas leyendo se entiende que en realidad este libro cuenta la historia de Victoria y que él es solo un interés amoroso que la ayuda en el proceso.
Este es el libro debut de Maria y lo hizo muy bien, tanto la trama como el romance y los personajes me parecieron súper interesantes. Solo tengo una cosa que podríamos decir que es "negativa" y es el porqué no le di 5 estrellas: los POV de Susana, la abuela de Victoria. Entiendo que son necesarios (aunque yo detesté leerlos porque no me gusta esa señora) para entender mejor el misterio sobre el abuelo de Vicky pero como lectora opino que hubiera sido más impactante si esos puntos de vista lo hubiera leído más al final y así sorprenderme junto con Victoria sobre las cosas que se iba enterando.
Y eso es todo, muchísimas gracias a Maria Rigou por darme la oportunidad de leer el ARC <3
— Reseña en Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/p/CvIaB8KO9...
El libro trata sobre Victoria que se entera la mañana de su boda que su prometido le puso los cuernos así que huye de la ciudad de Buenos Aires, sin decirle a nadie, a cualquier otro pueblo de Argentina. Termina en “Tres Fuego”; un pequeño pueblo (inventado por la autora) en donde descubrirá secretos viejos de su familia y se reencontrará con el verdadero amor de su vida.
Necesito hablar más sobre Victoria porque esta chica... la amé. Se ganó completamente mi corazón porque ella es de esas protagonistas perdidas que buscan ser felices, buscan mejorar su vida porque se dan cuenta que tienen una vida que no quieren y allí es cuando comienza su desarrollo.
Luego está Santiago que es un amor y me ha hecho desear un montón una pareja como él. Me hubiera gustado muchísimo que hubiera más enfoque sobre él y algún POV suyo pero a medida que vas leyendo se entiende que en realidad este libro cuenta la historia de Victoria y que él es solo un interés amoroso que la ayuda en el proceso.
Este es el libro debut de Maria y lo hizo muy bien, tanto la trama como el romance y los personajes me parecieron súper interesantes. Solo tengo una cosa que podríamos decir que es "negativa" y es el porqué no le di 5 estrellas: los POV de Susana, la abuela de Victoria. Entiendo que son necesarios (aunque yo detesté leerlos porque no me gusta esa señora) para entender mejor el misterio sobre el abuelo de Vicky pero como lectora opino que hubiera sido más impactante si esos puntos de vista lo hubiera leído más al final y así sorprenderme junto con Victoria sobre las cosas que se iba enterando.
Y eso es todo, muchísimas gracias a Maria Rigou por darme la oportunidad de leer el ARC <3
— Reseña en Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/p/CvIaB8KO9...
May 1, 2025
Thank you to good reads for a copy of this book for my honest review
The story is about Victoria a prominent lawyer raised by a controlling grandma Susana who is a socialite. Victoria grew up with a silver spoon in her mouth. She got every thing.
On her wedding day to marry Manuel, a well known bachelor, she gets a text of him sleeping with someone else in her bed. She leaves and goes to a small town Tros Fuegos. This is where the story unfolds.
She meets with Santiago her rival in college. He is the perfect man, sweet, kind, tries to help her thru her issues.
It is here where Victoria realizes she needs to make her own decisions, plan her the life as she wants it to be. She keeps digging and finds out that her grandma has been hiding the truth for years.
The story is about your past present and future. Lead your own life and learn from your mistakes.
The book for me was okay. There is a bit repetition. I think the romance came to fast without further development.
It reads fast, a common theme but has a new twist at the end. Give it a try it doesn't require intense thought process so just enjoy it.
The story is about Victoria a prominent lawyer raised by a controlling grandma Susana who is a socialite. Victoria grew up with a silver spoon in her mouth. She got every thing.
On her wedding day to marry Manuel, a well known bachelor, she gets a text of him sleeping with someone else in her bed. She leaves and goes to a small town Tros Fuegos. This is where the story unfolds.
She meets with Santiago her rival in college. He is the perfect man, sweet, kind, tries to help her thru her issues.
It is here where Victoria realizes she needs to make her own decisions, plan her the life as she wants it to be. She keeps digging and finds out that her grandma has been hiding the truth for years.
The story is about your past present and future. Lead your own life and learn from your mistakes.
The book for me was okay. There is a bit repetition. I think the romance came to fast without further development.
It reads fast, a common theme but has a new twist at the end. Give it a try it doesn't require intense thought process so just enjoy it.
May 6, 2025
3.5⭐️ rounded down
The story had so much potential and I did find myself interested in it. It's just that there are some things that don't add up or were just odd.
I don't wanna say too much because I don't wanna spoil anything, but I want to say that this is really not a Rivals to Lovers. Because only the FMC saw the MMC as a rival... The MMC was just good at his thing and was always sunshiny and happy.
it's a reverse grumpy sunshine. Santiago is literally a Golden Retriever. I did like Santiago, but it took me awhile to get attached to Victoria. I started liking her when I understood the depth of what she was going through.
The big family secret is good, then again, there were some odd stuff about it.
The smut didn't do it for me, maybe it's because I wasn't super connected to the characters. 🤷🏻♀️
The second book in the Tres Fuegos series is about Lucia and I did like her, so I will read Before The Storm for sure.
The writing was easy to read, there is some Spanish in the book but the author did a good job to let us know what it means if we don't know Spanish.
The story had so much potential and I did find myself interested in it. It's just that there are some things that don't add up or were just odd.
I don't wanna say too much because I don't wanna spoil anything, but I want to say that this is really not a Rivals to Lovers. Because only the FMC saw the MMC as a rival... The MMC was just good at his thing and was always sunshiny and happy.
it's a reverse grumpy sunshine. Santiago is literally a Golden Retriever. I did like Santiago, but it took me awhile to get attached to Victoria. I started liking her when I understood the depth of what she was going through.
The big family secret is good, then again, there were some odd stuff about it.
The smut didn't do it for me, maybe it's because I wasn't super connected to the characters. 🤷🏻♀️
The second book in the Tres Fuegos series is about Lucia and I did like her, so I will read Before The Storm for sure.
The writing was easy to read, there is some Spanish in the book but the author did a good job to let us know what it means if we don't know Spanish.
June 3, 2023
As a debut novel, this was fairly good. I enjoyed the plot and Victoria's character arc. Susana's character was interesting. But there were the typical debut novel mistakes like pacing issues and starting chapters by writing about "he" when there were several possible "hes" that could have been there. The thing that bugged me the most was the dialogue. Several conversations were stopped at odd places or switched topics awkwardly. For example, Victoria is telling Santiago about the mystery surrounding her grandfather, Santiago starts to talk (again) about how he hates his job, and then she talks about her grandfather soem more -- all on the same page. What? All of these mistakes could be smoothed out with another round of editing, and I am trying to rate the book on that. I would read this author again to see her craft evolve.
June 5, 2023
This is a debut from this author, and she is certainly someone to look out for in the future. Victoria is one of the most successful lawyers in town, and she has had her life planned out for her by her grandmother, but when she has a rude awaking on the eve of her wedding to an eligible bachelor, she flees to a small town to regroup, and go on journey of self-discovery. Fate has destined Victoria and Santiago to keep crossing paths, as he was her nemesis at law school. This is a well written story which is an enemies / lover’s romance, with emotions, angst, family, friendships, lies, intrigue, revelations, challenges, truths, and love, which leads to an entertaining and addictive page turner.
I look forward to reading more from this author whose work recommend.
I look forward to reading more from this author whose work recommend.
May 11, 2025
What I really loved about this book, is that although it’s classed as a romance book, it doesn’t just focus on the romance. It’s actually split between the attraction between Victoria and Santiago and her desperation to find out more about the family secret.
Victoria lives with a lot of pressure from her grandmother so you can sympathise with her need to get away and not want to go back for a while. I love that Santiago’s family welcome her with open arms and the town sounds idyllic.
It does feel like she gets over Manuel very quickly but I guess that shows that she was never really in love with him to begin with. Her attraction to Santiago is obvious and I’m not sure if it’s because I read through it quickly but it felt quick, rushed almost which is why I’m glad that she does return home and takes her time to figure things out. I enjoyed this and I can’t wait to read the next one!
Victoria lives with a lot of pressure from her grandmother so you can sympathise with her need to get away and not want to go back for a while. I love that Santiago’s family welcome her with open arms and the town sounds idyllic.
It does feel like she gets over Manuel very quickly but I guess that shows that she was never really in love with him to begin with. Her attraction to Santiago is obvious and I’m not sure if it’s because I read through it quickly but it felt quick, rushed almost which is why I’m glad that she does return home and takes her time to figure things out. I enjoyed this and I can’t wait to read the next one!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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