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Fire Company 143 #1
Smoke Signals
This era for Nina is called the Moment of Yes. She is saying yes to all things that will improve her self-love, including taking a chef-level virtual cooking class...with no cooking skills. Of course, she thought this would go without her nearly burning her kitchen down and coming face to face with a handsome fireman.
Denzel didn't expect that the woman his team was familiar with because of her frequent fire emergencies would be stunning and the one to make him forget his recent woes in love. He wasn't looking, but when the smoke cleared, there she was. Of course, he didn't expect this chance meeting to stem a steamy summer of romance.
When the steam turns to smoke, will their signals stay in sync or will they miss each other's smoke signals?
Denzel didn't expect that the woman his team was familiar with because of her frequent fire emergencies would be stunning and the one to make him forget his recent woes in love. He wasn't looking, but when the smoke cleared, there she was. Of course, he didn't expect this chance meeting to stem a steamy summer of romance.
When the steam turns to smoke, will their signals stay in sync or will they miss each other's smoke signals?
168 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 23, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 184 reviews
September 14, 2024
A pretty good story. Kinda YA, but cute.
April 15, 2026
This one just wasnt for me. I got the ick in the first 3 chapters and couldn't shake it. The MMC responds to a fire call, enters the building to a minor kitchen fire (just a towel) and immediately swoons over the FMC to the point that he starts calling her a fire goddess (ick) and im sorry that should have been a huge red flag. Hes the fire chief and thats his response in a professional situation?
The FMC is annoying, very hot and cold. The MMC is still somewhat holding on to his ex until he meets the FMC and immediately swoons for her. They both needed therapy not a relationship
Overall its OK, I get its a short story so things have to progress rather quickly but personally this story didnt do it for me. If you like instant lust/insta relationship sorta than you might enjoy it.
The FMC is annoying, very hot and cold. The MMC is still somewhat holding on to his ex until he meets the FMC and immediately swoons for her. They both needed therapy not a relationship
Overall its OK, I get its a short story so things have to progress rather quickly but personally this story didnt do it for me. If you like instant lust/insta relationship sorta than you might enjoy it.
May 13, 2026
It was okay. Both Nina and Denzel had baggage from their previous relationships. I don’t think either of them was ready for anything serious. Nina was very annoying with her behavior. Denzel definitely had his issues too. I did enjoy Joni, she was a mess.
February 8, 2025
What to say, what to say.
Read this book if you want something quick and easy just be prepared to feel frustration and irritation.
The FMC was annoying about her ex and ran hot/cold due to issues with said ex. The MMC needed to get his shit together about his ex and should’ve had therapy to deal with the fact that he lets women walk all over him.
There is spice in this book so maybe you’ll enjoy that 🤷🏽♀️
I gave it 3⭐️ but really more like 2.5⭐️
Read this book if you want something quick and easy just be prepared to feel frustration and irritation.
The FMC was annoying about her ex and ran hot/cold due to issues with said ex. The MMC needed to get his shit together about his ex and should’ve had therapy to deal with the fact that he lets women walk all over him.
There is spice in this book so maybe you’ll enjoy that 🤷🏽♀️
I gave it 3⭐️ but really more like 2.5⭐️
September 9, 2025
If self-sabotage had a name it would be Nina. While she was going through her moment of yet and doing things for self-love she neglected the part that also allows someone to show you love. I understood that it came from the her past experiences and what her ex did to her so in a way she felt she wasn't worthy of love or ready to move on and there was a lot of self doubt there. Due to this there was some strife in their budding relationship and had her questioning things but Denzel didn't fully let that deter him which I was happy about.
I liked that Denzel was patient with her because he too had his issues with an ex that wasn't on the same page as him but he showed Nina that he meant business when it came to her and he was willing to go that mile with her. That being said he had to let her be the one to come to him to show that she wanted the same with him. It took a little bit for her to finally give in to what he was offering and let go of the past but once she got there it was up from there and I enjoyed the two of them together.
I liked that Denzel was patient with her because he too had his issues with an ex that wasn't on the same page as him but he showed Nina that he meant business when it came to her and he was willing to go that mile with her. That being said he had to let her be the one to come to him to show that she wanted the same with him. It took a little bit for her to finally give in to what he was offering and let go of the past but once she got there it was up from there and I enjoyed the two of them together.
April 19, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley and Tantor Media for providing me with an ALC of this book in return for an honest and voluntary review!
This book was quick, cute and simple at the very base of it! But just know going into it, you probably will get frustrated by both of our main characters for some of their behaviours and actions! They both ignore the advice given to them multiple times so it honestly did get a tinyyy bit frustrating lmao
The end of the epilogue also made me prettyyyy intrigued about book 2 so I'll be on the lookout for that to be released on audio so I can continue the series!
I really enjoyed the narrators, they felt super genuine and like they really were our MCs from this book which made the book a lot more engaging - I'd love to check out more of their work
This book was quick, cute and simple at the very base of it! But just know going into it, you probably will get frustrated by both of our main characters for some of their behaviours and actions! They both ignore the advice given to them multiple times so it honestly did get a tinyyy bit frustrating lmao
The end of the epilogue also made me prettyyyy intrigued about book 2 so I'll be on the lookout for that to be released on audio so I can continue the series!
I really enjoyed the narrators, they felt super genuine and like they really were our MCs from this book which made the book a lot more engaging - I'd love to check out more of their work
April 21, 2026
2.75⭐️ gladly rounding up to 3⭐️
Okay, so Smoke Signals had a setup that should have worked incredibly well for me: FMC in the middle of trying to reclaim herself, a firefighter hero, a romance built around heat, smoke, rescue, sparks, and all the obvious emotional symbolism that comes with fire. And to be fair, the book is easy to read. Danielle Brooks knows how to create chemistry quickly, and there are individual moments here that genuinely work. Nina and Denzel have immediate attraction, scenes like the cooking lesson, the candle date, the Ferris wheel, and the rescue create a romance that knows what emotional fantasy it wants to deliver: being seen, rescued, desired, and finally chosen without hesitation.
What kept this at 3-star range for me was the emotional footing. I could always see what the book wanted me to feel, but I did not feel like the emotional depth underneath those beats was developed enough to really hold them. Both Nina and Denzel are given wounds from past relationships, yet so much of that inner life is explained to you in very direct language rather than being fully illustrated on the page. I understood Nina’s fear. I understood Denzel’s openness and why rejection still lingered for him. But understanding is not the same thing as feeling emotionally convinced. Too often, the book tells us where they are emotionally before it has done enough showing to make those feelings land with real weight. The often gives us the conclusion of their feelings before it gives us enough lived interiority to make those feelings hit with full weight.
That issue became even more noticeable in the romance arc itself. The chemistry is there, absolutely, but emotional intimacy and emotional resolution often feel underbuilt because the story keeps letting physical attraction do the heavier lifting. Several moments that should have deepened the relationship through conversation, introspection, or emotional risk slide fairly quickly back into sexual tension or sensual reassurance. That makes the relationship readable and warm, but it also means some of the harder emotional terrain never gets explored with the kind of depth I wanted. By the time conflict does arrive (and WE ALL KNEW IT WOULD!), I did not fully believe the story had done enough inner work to make the rupture or the repair hit as hard as it clearly wanted to.
My bigger issue, though, was Nina’s characterisation. On paper, she has the outline of a FMC I should have loved. She is meant to be in a self-reclamation era, trying to say yes to herself again after a relationship that left her doubting her footing. She has a job, a life, intentions for growth, and this whole “Moment of Yes” framework that is clearly supposed to signal a woman stepping back into herself. But in execution, Nina never fully solidified for me as a textured person. So much of her page presence gets flattened into one repeated trait: she cannot cook. The joke is made early, then repeated by Joni, by the firefighters, by Nina herself, and eventually by the narrative so often that it stops functioning as a cute running gag and starts feeling like shorthand for her entire character.
Denzel’s arc has a similar issue. He is written as open-hearted, capable, domestic, and earnest from the start, which makes him easy to like, but it also means he has less interior friction than he needs. His wound with Thandie is real, yet it rarely destabilises his behaviour in a complex way. Instead, it mostly functions as backstory that proves he has been hurt before and still believes in love and obviously as a dramatic plot point. He begins as a man ready to love and ends as a man ready to love, so the emotional movement on his side feels slighter than the plot suggests.
I also think the book leans a little too hard on its own metaphorical language. The smoke, haze, fire, sparks, rescue, rope, all of that symbolism is obvious from the start and it does fit the story. But because the book keeps naming and re-naming those ideas so directly, the emotional messaging can start to feel over-signposted rather than organic.
There is definitely heart here. I can see the appeal. If you want a fast, sensual romance with a strong central vibe, a likeable hero, and a lot of romantic heat will probably find something to enjoy. But for me, this needed more emotional layering, more introspection, and far more character texture, especially for Nina. I wanted a romance that felt emotionally rooted. What I got was a story with sparks, chemistry, and a clear theme, but not quite enough depth underneath it to make the emotional arc feel fully earned. I see the potential in the writing, but I wish the author had trusted her story and her readers a lot more.
*Thank you to NetGalley and Tantor Media for providing me with an advance listening copy of Smoke Signals in exchange for an honest, voluntary review. All thoughts here are entirely my own and reflect my genuine reading experience.
Okay, so Smoke Signals had a setup that should have worked incredibly well for me: FMC in the middle of trying to reclaim herself, a firefighter hero, a romance built around heat, smoke, rescue, sparks, and all the obvious emotional symbolism that comes with fire. And to be fair, the book is easy to read. Danielle Brooks knows how to create chemistry quickly, and there are individual moments here that genuinely work. Nina and Denzel have immediate attraction, scenes like the cooking lesson, the candle date, the Ferris wheel, and the rescue create a romance that knows what emotional fantasy it wants to deliver: being seen, rescued, desired, and finally chosen without hesitation.
What kept this at 3-star range for me was the emotional footing. I could always see what the book wanted me to feel, but I did not feel like the emotional depth underneath those beats was developed enough to really hold them. Both Nina and Denzel are given wounds from past relationships, yet so much of that inner life is explained to you in very direct language rather than being fully illustrated on the page. I understood Nina’s fear. I understood Denzel’s openness and why rejection still lingered for him. But understanding is not the same thing as feeling emotionally convinced. Too often, the book tells us where they are emotionally before it has done enough showing to make those feelings land with real weight. The often gives us the conclusion of their feelings before it gives us enough lived interiority to make those feelings hit with full weight.
That issue became even more noticeable in the romance arc itself. The chemistry is there, absolutely, but emotional intimacy and emotional resolution often feel underbuilt because the story keeps letting physical attraction do the heavier lifting. Several moments that should have deepened the relationship through conversation, introspection, or emotional risk slide fairly quickly back into sexual tension or sensual reassurance. That makes the relationship readable and warm, but it also means some of the harder emotional terrain never gets explored with the kind of depth I wanted. By the time conflict does arrive (and WE ALL KNEW IT WOULD!), I did not fully believe the story had done enough inner work to make the rupture or the repair hit as hard as it clearly wanted to.
My bigger issue, though, was Nina’s characterisation. On paper, she has the outline of a FMC I should have loved. She is meant to be in a self-reclamation era, trying to say yes to herself again after a relationship that left her doubting her footing. She has a job, a life, intentions for growth, and this whole “Moment of Yes” framework that is clearly supposed to signal a woman stepping back into herself. But in execution, Nina never fully solidified for me as a textured person. So much of her page presence gets flattened into one repeated trait: she cannot cook. The joke is made early, then repeated by Joni, by the firefighters, by Nina herself, and eventually by the narrative so often that it stops functioning as a cute running gag and starts feeling like shorthand for her entire character.
Denzel’s arc has a similar issue. He is written as open-hearted, capable, domestic, and earnest from the start, which makes him easy to like, but it also means he has less interior friction than he needs. His wound with Thandie is real, yet it rarely destabilises his behaviour in a complex way. Instead, it mostly functions as backstory that proves he has been hurt before and still believes in love and obviously as a dramatic plot point. He begins as a man ready to love and ends as a man ready to love, so the emotional movement on his side feels slighter than the plot suggests.
I also think the book leans a little too hard on its own metaphorical language. The smoke, haze, fire, sparks, rescue, rope, all of that symbolism is obvious from the start and it does fit the story. But because the book keeps naming and re-naming those ideas so directly, the emotional messaging can start to feel over-signposted rather than organic.
There is definitely heart here. I can see the appeal. If you want a fast, sensual romance with a strong central vibe, a likeable hero, and a lot of romantic heat will probably find something to enjoy. But for me, this needed more emotional layering, more introspection, and far more character texture, especially for Nina. I wanted a romance that felt emotionally rooted. What I got was a story with sparks, chemistry, and a clear theme, but not quite enough depth underneath it to make the emotional arc feel fully earned. I see the potential in the writing, but I wish the author had trusted her story and her readers a lot more.
*Thank you to NetGalley and Tantor Media for providing me with an advance listening copy of Smoke Signals in exchange for an honest, voluntary review. All thoughts here are entirely my own and reflect my genuine reading experience.
April 21, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley and Tantor Media for the opportunity to read this ALC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
This was a cute, low-angst romance with a soft, character-driven feel.
Nina is on a self-love journey, and while I appreciated what she was trying to do emotionally, the self-sabotage and back-and-forth had me a little stressed at times. She’s definitely a runner—but it felt true to where she was in her growth. Also… her inability to cook? Bless her heart 😂
Denzel is a firefighter cinnamon roll—patient, intentional, and really steady in the way he shows up. He balanced Nina well, especially with how much grace he gave her throughout.
Some of the relationship tension felt a bit familiar at times, particularly elements connected to past relationships, but it didn’t take away from the overall reading experience.
The romance leans gentle and low-drama overall, focusing more on emotional readiness and timing than big plot moments. If you enjoy softer, character-focused love stories with a patient MMC, this will likely work for you.
Narration: Jamal Roque & Ember Bell
It was solid overall, though not particularly standout for me.
This was a cute, low-angst romance with a soft, character-driven feel.
Nina is on a self-love journey, and while I appreciated what she was trying to do emotionally, the self-sabotage and back-and-forth had me a little stressed at times. She’s definitely a runner—but it felt true to where she was in her growth. Also… her inability to cook? Bless her heart 😂
Denzel is a firefighter cinnamon roll—patient, intentional, and really steady in the way he shows up. He balanced Nina well, especially with how much grace he gave her throughout.
Some of the relationship tension felt a bit familiar at times, particularly elements connected to past relationships, but it didn’t take away from the overall reading experience.
The romance leans gentle and low-drama overall, focusing more on emotional readiness and timing than big plot moments. If you enjoy softer, character-focused love stories with a patient MMC, this will likely work for you.
Narration: Jamal Roque & Ember Bell
It was solid overall, though not particularly standout for me.
March 25, 2026
☆☆☆
- This was a quick and cute romance read. Denzel and Nina’s love story was enjoyable but they both pissed me off for different reasons. I just wanted them both to be smart with their decisions.
- I liked that Denzel was patient and he was a true simp in terms of courting a woman. He sure did set his self up in reference to his ex.
- I loved the idea of Nina’s self care journey but it seemed like the only thing on her mind was Pierre and I didn’t like that. She definitely self sabotaged a lot and tried so hard not to let Denzel in.
- I loved Joni crazy self!! She was my favorite character out of the whole book honestly!
- This was a quick and cute romance read. Denzel and Nina’s love story was enjoyable but they both pissed me off for different reasons. I just wanted them both to be smart with their decisions.
- I liked that Denzel was patient and he was a true simp in terms of courting a woman. He sure did set his self up in reference to his ex.
- I loved the idea of Nina’s self care journey but it seemed like the only thing on her mind was Pierre and I didn’t like that. She definitely self sabotaged a lot and tried so hard not to let Denzel in.
- I loved Joni crazy self!! She was my favorite character out of the whole book honestly!
November 19, 2024
Meet Nina. Nina can’t cook, but is to determined to learn while following step by step video instructions. The problem is… she keeps starting fires.
Meet Denzel. He’s a fine ass firefighter with a good heart who… likes Nina.
Ok so this was a cute read, with great sizzling sex and lots of humor. I loved their friends, the double date scenes and the banter between the firefighters. They were hilarious!
What I didn’t like was Nina starting all these fires! If you can’t cook stay yo ahhh out the kitchen!! Nina was a mess following the demise of her last relationship and she still held that baggage close. Some deep and meaningful conversations could’ve really benefited them both and saved the reader the frustration of Nina getting to see what everyone else could. I’m also not a fan of forced proximity and we get that here.
One added bonus is that the sex scenes near the end was where the real🔥 came in 🥵 🥵 🥵! Yall nasty 🫣😆
Meet Denzel. He’s a fine ass firefighter with a good heart who… likes Nina.
Ok so this was a cute read, with great sizzling sex and lots of humor. I loved their friends, the double date scenes and the banter between the firefighters. They were hilarious!
What I didn’t like was Nina starting all these fires! If you can’t cook stay yo ahhh out the kitchen!! Nina was a mess following the demise of her last relationship and she still held that baggage close. Some deep and meaningful conversations could’ve really benefited them both and saved the reader the frustration of Nina getting to see what everyone else could. I’m also not a fan of forced proximity and we get that here.
One added bonus is that the sex scenes near the end was where the real🔥 came in 🥵 🥵 🥵! Yall nasty 🫣😆
April 18, 2026
Short, Sweet, and Spicy Rom-Com
ALC Review
📚 Book Title: Smoke Signals (Fire Company 143 Book 1)
✍🏽Author: Danielle Brooks
🎙️Narrator: Ember Bell & Jamal Roque
📕 Format: 🎧
⭐️ Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
🌶 Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
🕑Quick Take:
Nina is on a journey of self-love and self-discovery, but she is accident-prone. In an effort to improve her cooking skills, she has had two near misses that have led to emergency calls to Fire Company 143.
Denzel Payton is the Chief of Fire Company 143. He is attempting to move on from a long-term relationship and is not looking for another relationship until he encounters the fire goddess, Nina.
They share an attraction and are willing to take a chance on love, “but will they miss each other's smoke signals?”
✨ Tropes:
- Instant Love
- Meet Cute
- Firefighter Romance
- Short, Sweet, and Spicy Rom-Com
🎭 Narration:
Ember Bell and Jamal Roque did an excellent job bringing this story to life.
💭Final Thoughts:
I enjoyed this audiobook. I’d been wanting to read Danielle Brooks’ work for some time and was happy to start with Fire Company 143. This was the perfect rom-com, a short, sweet, and spicy read. Smoke Signals (Fire Company 143 Book 1) did not disappoint.
Thanks to Tantor for the ALC!
ALC Review
📚 Book Title: Smoke Signals (Fire Company 143 Book 1)
✍🏽Author: Danielle Brooks
🎙️Narrator: Ember Bell & Jamal Roque
📕 Format: 🎧
⭐️ Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
🌶 Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
🕑Quick Take:
Nina is on a journey of self-love and self-discovery, but she is accident-prone. In an effort to improve her cooking skills, she has had two near misses that have led to emergency calls to Fire Company 143.
Denzel Payton is the Chief of Fire Company 143. He is attempting to move on from a long-term relationship and is not looking for another relationship until he encounters the fire goddess, Nina.
They share an attraction and are willing to take a chance on love, “but will they miss each other's smoke signals?”
✨ Tropes:
- Instant Love
- Meet Cute
- Firefighter Romance
- Short, Sweet, and Spicy Rom-Com
🎭 Narration:
Ember Bell and Jamal Roque did an excellent job bringing this story to life.
💭Final Thoughts:
I enjoyed this audiobook. I’d been wanting to read Danielle Brooks’ work for some time and was happy to start with Fire Company 143. This was the perfect rom-com, a short, sweet, and spicy read. Smoke Signals (Fire Company 143 Book 1) did not disappoint.
Thanks to Tantor for the ALC!
April 16, 2026
This romance novella by a new to me author was just a bit too cringe for me. The FMC felt a tad too helpless and the firefighter MMC was almost too perfect. I like spice but this one was VERY explicit - to the point where even I was uncomfortable. Sadly it wasn't a hit for me but maybe it will be for some other, less discerning reader. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early audio copy in exchange for my honest feedback.
August 20, 2025
3.5⭐️
This was a sweet love story with a meet cute. I loved reading how Nina wanted to find herself without the attachment of a man and related to her struggle. A MMC like Denzel that was basically a simp for his woman with no regrets was refreshing! The dialogue was a little corny at times but I think that it made the story cute.
This was a sweet love story with a meet cute. I loved reading how Nina wanted to find herself without the attachment of a man and related to her struggle. A MMC like Denzel that was basically a simp for his woman with no regrets was refreshing! The dialogue was a little corny at times but I think that it made the story cute.
February 26, 2025
Great story promoting self-love as we follow Nina as she learns to put herself first and opens herself up to new opportunities. I gave a 3 star rating due to the FMC. She irritated my reading experience lol, not sure it that was intentional. Loved the cover and the black love was rich.
May 28, 2025
Story line ⭐️⭐️⭐️
But spice level 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Worth it for a book less than 200 pages!
But spice level 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Worth it for a book less than 200 pages!
April 13, 2026
#audiobookreview #audiobooklover #audiobookstagram
I just enjoyed this amazing novel via 🎧📖 compliments of @netgalley by lovely author @daniellebrookswrites
I just finished the audio book version compliments of NetGalley and I throughly enjoyed it. The love story was organic and real. The book dealt with the vulnerability of starting over and finding someone who’s vunerable to but open - it’s scary to take the jump but life will push you closer together and you decide to trust the leap. The chemistry between the characters is very sexy 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ and I wish the story was longer. The supporting characters are hilarious. A nice afternoon read or savor on the weekend.
#readdaily #readingchallenge
I just enjoyed this amazing novel via 🎧📖 compliments of @netgalley by lovely author @daniellebrookswrites
I just finished the audio book version compliments of NetGalley and I throughly enjoyed it. The love story was organic and real. The book dealt with the vulnerability of starting over and finding someone who’s vunerable to but open - it’s scary to take the jump but life will push you closer together and you decide to trust the leap. The chemistry between the characters is very sexy 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ and I wish the story was longer. The supporting characters are hilarious. A nice afternoon read or savor on the weekend.
#readdaily #readingchallenge
December 17, 2025
I usually don’t care for instalove, but this was the cutest instalove story ever. It gave something different than other instalove stories. I really enjoyed the connection between Nina and Denzel and the circumstances that magically brought them together on more than one occasions. It was funny with hints of spice, but a well-developed love story within these short amount of pages. It also brought both characters healing after having had horrible relationships previously.
Deacon, Tevin, and Joni were great side characters.
Deacon, Tevin, and Joni were great side characters.
July 11, 2025
⭐️⭐️.5 — I get this was pretty much like a novella but it just didn’t have a natural progression for me and felt rushed and lowkey the MMC (forgive me, I already forgot his name 😅😭) was cringey to me. One second you can’t get over your ex and the next minute you’re all into “Goddess” 🤔😐 you were literally texting your ex when you first got the FMC’s phone number and were holding onto her items at your apartment. The way I would’ve had all her belonging on the curb on trash day, but that’s beside the point 😂
Nina was annoying too. These two just had too much baggage for me.
Nina was annoying too. These two just had too much baggage for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 23, 2024
4⭐️ and 2.5🌶️ "Smoke Signals" - ARC Review
Release Date: Friday August 23, 2024
“That’s when I realized, instead of losing myself in the present, I lost myself in my fears.”
If my friend Danielle doesn't do anything else, she's going to give you a novella with a plot, hilarious characters, descriptive scenery, and a man who is falling falling falling. 😍
Nina. Poor Nina. My girl needs to stay far away from the kitchen. But what I can relate to is her clumsiness in her everyday life because girl, same. I have stories. Nina is living in her year of “yes” but finds herself saying no to everything that is good for her. Two things I wanted to do after meeting Nina, call Kennedy and Tinsley (iykyk) to join her best friend Joni so they could give her a pep talk. And secondly, I wanted to scream at her for like 3 seconds then drive her to therapy. Because girl, “that’s a goodT man, Savannah.” Joni might be the realest character I've met in a book. She said everything I wanted to say to Nina with no filters.
Fear will have you missing out on not just love, but LIFE.
Denzel is a Denzel. Gorgeous. Smooth. Loves hard. And falls even harder. I found myself wanting to scream at him too because sir, please go get what belongs to you. He was fearless and knew what he wanted with Nina almost instantly. And he risked his life for hers without a second thought. But what do you do when you see something in someone that they can't see themselves? Wait or move on?
Let’s just make sure our vocal cords 🗣️ are healthy when it comes to Nina and Denzel because those two...they will make you scream at them 😂
This ending? What is going on in Lovey’s Bay?! 👀
✨He falls first
✨Forced Proximity
✨Damsel in Distress
Release Date: Friday August 23, 2024
“That’s when I realized, instead of losing myself in the present, I lost myself in my fears.”
If my friend Danielle doesn't do anything else, she's going to give you a novella with a plot, hilarious characters, descriptive scenery, and a man who is falling falling falling. 😍
Nina. Poor Nina. My girl needs to stay far away from the kitchen. But what I can relate to is her clumsiness in her everyday life because girl, same. I have stories. Nina is living in her year of “yes” but finds herself saying no to everything that is good for her. Two things I wanted to do after meeting Nina, call Kennedy and Tinsley (iykyk) to join her best friend Joni so they could give her a pep talk. And secondly, I wanted to scream at her for like 3 seconds then drive her to therapy. Because girl, “that’s a goodT man, Savannah.” Joni might be the realest character I've met in a book. She said everything I wanted to say to Nina with no filters.
Fear will have you missing out on not just love, but LIFE.
Denzel is a Denzel. Gorgeous. Smooth. Loves hard. And falls even harder. I found myself wanting to scream at him too because sir, please go get what belongs to you. He was fearless and knew what he wanted with Nina almost instantly. And he risked his life for hers without a second thought. But what do you do when you see something in someone that they can't see themselves? Wait or move on?
Let’s just make sure our vocal cords 🗣️ are healthy when it comes to Nina and Denzel because those two...they will make you scream at them 😂
This ending? What is going on in Lovey’s Bay?! 👀
✨He falls first
✨Forced Proximity
✨Damsel in Distress
April 17, 2026
3.5 - NetGalley Audiobook Review
We follow Nina during her “say yes to life” journey working on herself, trying to move on from a failed relationship, and honestly just figuring it out one chaotic moment at a time. Case in point: she almost burns her kitchen down… and that’s how she meets Denzel.
Denzel (yes, handsome firefighter, we love to see it) is also on his own self-improvement journey after a breakup, so you’ve got two people healing, growing, and lowkey crashing into each other in the best way.
That said, I personally wanted more tension. Give me yearning. Give me buildup. I needed a slower burn so when they finally kissed, it felt like fireworks instead of a quick spark.
And I’m gonna be real…the steamy scenes did not hit for me. The wording and descriptions took me out! Like why are we describing things like that? It felt more awkward than sexy at times, and I was sitting there like "I need this to end".
As for the audiobook—this was a bit of a mixed bag for me.
The female narrator really brought Nina to life, and I loved how much personality she added to the character. But some of the inflection choices in certain moments threw me off a little. The male narrator though? He did his thing. Their performance made it super easy to stay engaged, and they really helped bring the story to life.
If you’re in the mood for a fast, steamy romance with a swoony firefighter who reminds you what love is supposed to feel like? This one delivers. It’s quick, easy, and hits that “I just want something romantic right now” vibe perfectly.
We follow Nina during her “say yes to life” journey working on herself, trying to move on from a failed relationship, and honestly just figuring it out one chaotic moment at a time. Case in point: she almost burns her kitchen down… and that’s how she meets Denzel.
Denzel (yes, handsome firefighter, we love to see it) is also on his own self-improvement journey after a breakup, so you’ve got two people healing, growing, and lowkey crashing into each other in the best way.
That said, I personally wanted more tension. Give me yearning. Give me buildup. I needed a slower burn so when they finally kissed, it felt like fireworks instead of a quick spark.
And I’m gonna be real…the steamy scenes did not hit for me. The wording and descriptions took me out! Like why are we describing things like that? It felt more awkward than sexy at times, and I was sitting there like "I need this to end".
As for the audiobook—this was a bit of a mixed bag for me.
The female narrator really brought Nina to life, and I loved how much personality she added to the character. But some of the inflection choices in certain moments threw me off a little. The male narrator though? He did his thing. Their performance made it super easy to stay engaged, and they really helped bring the story to life.
If you’re in the mood for a fast, steamy romance with a swoony firefighter who reminds you what love is supposed to feel like? This one delivers. It’s quick, easy, and hits that “I just want something romantic right now” vibe perfectly.
April 19, 2026
The performance by the narrators were great. This was my first time hearing Jamal Roque and I really enjoyed his voice. His voice sounds very similar to Shemar Moore. I have listened to one other book performed by Ember Bell and, as usual, her performance was very expressive. Throughtout I only noticed once small error on the last page of chapter 27.
While I did enjoy the voice actors, they can only perform what is written. The story itself was well-structured and had an interesting plot that could have been made into a full-length novel. The prose, however, left a lot to be desired.
The metaphors had gotten to be a bit heavy handed. Some of the terminology was extremely cringy and repetitive. If I never hear or read 'love below' again, it would be too soon. Also, 'pearl.' Yikes. It pulled me right out of the scenes, especially when they are repeated 5 times in one encounter.
Additionally, the FMC was extremely terrible at communicating. For two people who were characterized as as wanting serious relationships and marriages, they made ridiculous decisions.
Other than that, this was a quick, cute read.
Thank you to NetGalley and Tantor Media for the ALC of this book so that I may share my honest opinions.
While I did enjoy the voice actors, they can only perform what is written. The story itself was well-structured and had an interesting plot that could have been made into a full-length novel. The prose, however, left a lot to be desired.
The metaphors had gotten to be a bit heavy handed. Some of the terminology was extremely cringy and repetitive. If I never hear or read 'love below' again, it would be too soon. Also, 'pearl.' Yikes. It pulled me right out of the scenes, especially when they are repeated 5 times in one encounter.
Additionally, the FMC was extremely terrible at communicating. For two people who were characterized as as wanting serious relationships and marriages, they made ridiculous decisions.
Other than that, this was a quick, cute read.
Thank you to NetGalley and Tantor Media for the ALC of this book so that I may share my honest opinions.
September 1, 2024
good book but frustrating FMC
I definitely thought this book would be nice and sweet but instead I found it endearing and practical (in some ways). I think it’s an important lesson to learn that you can work on yourself while being in a relationship or falling in love. Nina felt that she needed to be whole before moving on. That was frustrating to read as the reader and for the love interest Denzel. He definitely had patience because she was honestly frustrating throughout the whole book. I felt like he was honest with her and she kept yo-yoing him back and forth, especially knowing his past. Loved the supporting characters that I think will end up having their own books.
There were a few grammatical errors.
I definitely thought this book would be nice and sweet but instead I found it endearing and practical (in some ways). I think it’s an important lesson to learn that you can work on yourself while being in a relationship or falling in love. Nina felt that she needed to be whole before moving on. That was frustrating to read as the reader and for the love interest Denzel. He definitely had patience because she was honestly frustrating throughout the whole book. I felt like he was honest with her and she kept yo-yoing him back and forth, especially knowing his past. Loved the supporting characters that I think will end up having their own books.
There were a few grammatical errors.
November 2, 2025
I’m not really an insta-love girlie (unless it’s paranormal, then I’ll allow it 😂). But I read this for my friend’s book club, and it actually turned out to be a cute, quick read. I don’t know if it was supposed to be funny, but Nina not knowing how to cook had me cracking up!
When it came to the relationship, I felt like Denzel had more patience than I ever could because Nina was a whole ball of confusion. He really extended grace, probably because he understood what it’s like to come from a rough past relationship. I just wanted her to make up her mind and stop comparing Denzel to her ex!
Also, the phrase “love below” popped up more than a few times, lol. I had to overlook it and keep pushing. All in all, though, I enjoyed the book!
When it came to the relationship, I felt like Denzel had more patience than I ever could because Nina was a whole ball of confusion. He really extended grace, probably because he understood what it’s like to come from a rough past relationship. I just wanted her to make up her mind and stop comparing Denzel to her ex!
Also, the phrase “love below” popped up more than a few times, lol. I had to overlook it and keep pushing. All in all, though, I enjoyed the book!
April 16, 2026
I received an advance copy of this book for free from #NetGalley. This is my voluntary, honest review.
Nina is named after the goddess of fire, yet it doesn’t help her in the kitchen as she's a disaster waiting to happen. Her kitchen mishaps lead her to meet Fire Chief Denzel, a tall, handsome man who leaves her awestruck. The same happens to him, but both are navigating life post-relationship breakups. A chance run-in leads to their first date. Both have reservations about where they could be headed, and when an unexpected disaster causes them to face their feelings, they struggle with honesty. Still, things don’t work in their favor. Nina is at times quirky and funny, but can be annoying because she gets in her own way by overthinking her relationship with Denzel based on her past. Denzel, while slow to tie up loose ends from his past, knows that he wants to be with Nina, but she is the obstacle at the same time. The pacing was good, and the story was plot-driven. I enjoyed the book overall, and the narration was done well. I will read the following books in the series. I actually look forward to Joni and Tevin's story. I think it will be a ride!
Nina is named after the goddess of fire, yet it doesn’t help her in the kitchen as she's a disaster waiting to happen. Her kitchen mishaps lead her to meet Fire Chief Denzel, a tall, handsome man who leaves her awestruck. The same happens to him, but both are navigating life post-relationship breakups. A chance run-in leads to their first date. Both have reservations about where they could be headed, and when an unexpected disaster causes them to face their feelings, they struggle with honesty. Still, things don’t work in their favor. Nina is at times quirky and funny, but can be annoying because she gets in her own way by overthinking her relationship with Denzel based on her past. Denzel, while slow to tie up loose ends from his past, knows that he wants to be with Nina, but she is the obstacle at the same time. The pacing was good, and the story was plot-driven. I enjoyed the book overall, and the narration was done well. I will read the following books in the series. I actually look forward to Joni and Tevin's story. I think it will be a ride!
April 19, 2026
ALR Review
This was an excellent listen! Nina and Denzel were so cute together, and their chemistry was undeniable from the start. I really enjoyed the storyline and how the romance developed. The romance tropes were fun and made this such an entertaining read.
Ember Bell and Jamal Roque did an amazing job bringing both characters to life. Their narration added so much personality and emotion to the story, making it even more enjoyable.
If you enjoy cute romances with strong chemistry, fun tropes, and great narration, definitely add this one to your TBR.
This was an excellent listen! Nina and Denzel were so cute together, and their chemistry was undeniable from the start. I really enjoyed the storyline and how the romance developed. The romance tropes were fun and made this such an entertaining read.
Ember Bell and Jamal Roque did an amazing job bringing both characters to life. Their narration added so much personality and emotion to the story, making it even more enjoyable.
If you enjoy cute romances with strong chemistry, fun tropes, and great narration, definitely add this one to your TBR.
September 1, 2024
Very hot and spicy. But Nina was kind of silly and Denzel was a simp. These two basically had a love connection from the start, but Nina let her ex constantly mess with her head. While he wasn’t thinking not one bit about her. But n9 matter how much she pushed him away, Denzel was right there the second she bat her eyelashes. He definitely paid for the sins of her ex. This definitely lost half a star because of Nina’s ambivalence.
July 22, 2025
This was my first Danielle brooks novel and I’m in awe it took me this long to found out about her. I personally had a chance to meet her and she recommended herself I start with this book. Denzel and Nina are such a cute couple. I really enjoyed the setting and the plot of this book. The pacing was fast but easy to keep up with what was happening. I definitely be continuing with the series and the rest of her catalog
April 22, 2026
This book was okay, for me it wasn't long enough to flush out all the details that I wanted. For a shorter book it was good read and if you are in need of something quick then I would recommend this for that.
February 15, 2026
I love when a book resonates with life, especially at the right time❣️The final wake up call to let go of the past.🧘🏾♀️
August 17, 2024
Nina & Denzel ….. man they gave me all the feels! This is the first ARC I had the pleasure of reviewing and I couldn’t put it down! As you can see I finished it in the matter of hours! I ate this book for breakfast!
From the colloquialisms throughout this work used for character building; to the imagery of every spicy intimate moment between Nina & Denzel Danielle did her thing with this season transition read! This is the perfect Romance book to wrap up summer and wind down into the fall. This book appealed to all five of my senses. And let’s not forget what woman doesn’t dream to be with a handsome and strong firefighter?!
Furthermore on a more serious level, I absolutely loved that both characters level of self-awareness didn’t stop them from getting the happy ending they both deserved. In our culture, so many times people have trouble with facing the man/woman in the mirror. As for Nina and Denzel they worked endlessly to not bring their baggage from their previous relationships into their new season of love.
Five star read it gave Denzel held her tight and squeezed her right both physically, mentally, and emotionally. I will be reading more of Danielle Brooks books!
From the colloquialisms throughout this work used for character building; to the imagery of every spicy intimate moment between Nina & Denzel Danielle did her thing with this season transition read! This is the perfect Romance book to wrap up summer and wind down into the fall. This book appealed to all five of my senses. And let’s not forget what woman doesn’t dream to be with a handsome and strong firefighter?!
Furthermore on a more serious level, I absolutely loved that both characters level of self-awareness didn’t stop them from getting the happy ending they both deserved. In our culture, so many times people have trouble with facing the man/woman in the mirror. As for Nina and Denzel they worked endlessly to not bring their baggage from their previous relationships into their new season of love.
Five star read it gave Denzel held her tight and squeezed her right both physically, mentally, and emotionally. I will be reading more of Danielle Brooks books!
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