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Charming Butte #1
Flirting With Fire
A smokin’ hot firefighter. A handsome, lonely rancher. Can these frenemies turn a cosmic misunderstanding into undying love?
Dex
It was supposed to be my typical peaceful morning horse ride followed by a clandestine cruller, cup of Joe at the Flying Saucer, and the day-in-day-out routine of ranching. Instead, my world explodes like an alien abduction gone wrong when my high school crush has the nerve to cross my path. Too bad he’s even hotter than he was when he broke my heart ten years ago.
Meyer
I dropped everything in Chicago to start over as assistant fire chief in my hometown of Charming Butte. Of all the people to run into when my old Chevy breaks down is the one guy who inexplicably hates me. Now, I get to make my triumphant return to town on the back of his horse. But with my arms wrapped around his solid frame, I wonder if I can make him forget our past in favor of a future together.
Flirting With Fire is the first book in the sweet and spicy romance series set in the quirky small town of Charming Butte, where swoony men in uniform discover their forever after. One click now and find your next book boyfriends in this funny and heartwarming romance!
Dex
It was supposed to be my typical peaceful morning horse ride followed by a clandestine cruller, cup of Joe at the Flying Saucer, and the day-in-day-out routine of ranching. Instead, my world explodes like an alien abduction gone wrong when my high school crush has the nerve to cross my path. Too bad he’s even hotter than he was when he broke my heart ten years ago.
Meyer
I dropped everything in Chicago to start over as assistant fire chief in my hometown of Charming Butte. Of all the people to run into when my old Chevy breaks down is the one guy who inexplicably hates me. Now, I get to make my triumphant return to town on the back of his horse. But with my arms wrapped around his solid frame, I wonder if I can make him forget our past in favor of a future together.
Flirting With Fire is the first book in the sweet and spicy romance series set in the quirky small town of Charming Butte, where swoony men in uniform discover their forever after. One click now and find your next book boyfriends in this funny and heartwarming romance!
206 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 25, 2025
13 people are currently reading
57 people want to read
About the author
Sue Brown
140 books839 followersHot guys, big hearts, Sue's world.
Sue Brown is a Londoner with a dream to live on a small island. Coffee fuels her addiction to writing romance with hot guys loving each other, and her Adorkadog snores in harmony as she creates.
Sue Brown is a Londoner with a dream to live on a small island. Coffee fuels her addiction to writing romance with hot guys loving each other, and her Adorkadog snores in harmony as she creates.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 91 reviews
May 12, 2025
This was a fun enemies to lovers story. Meyer has returned to Charming Butte after 10 years to be near his mother. While pulling into town his car breaks down. He’s rescued by his childhood crush Dex. Dex,however, remembers high school as a time Meyer picked on him. They hate each other until they don’t. This is a sweet story and I’m looking forward to the second book in the series about the new sheriff.
March 9, 2025
3.5 ⭐️
I struggled to connect with the characters and the plot(?). The book starts as former teammates/crushes to one-sided enemies to lovers. This is resolved quickly during the only real dangerous or angsty moment (but wasn’t actually at all). This lacked substance, and I also noted numerous times where there were inconsistencies. It was a light easy read though.
I struggled to connect with the characters and the plot(?). The book starts as former teammates/crushes to one-sided enemies to lovers. This is resolved quickly during the only real dangerous or angsty moment (but wasn’t actually at all). This lacked substance, and I also noted numerous times where there were inconsistencies. It was a light easy read though.
January 25, 2026
Okay, now, that was fun. I'm a sucker for small-town-cowboy romances and this was no exception. I can honestly tell you that the conflict surprised me--not that it existed but how much of a wild misunderstanding it was. Dex was a joy. The way he was confident with his ranch but vulnerable with his feelings and anxieties helped deepen his character exactly the right amount. Meyer was just all-around fun. I think because the book starts with his POV, I felt like I *knew* him more. But his whole character was relatable and a joy to follow.
Charming Butte is a town I hope to read many more stories in. The desert/alien thing was unique enough (most others seem to be PNW, southern, New England, or very midwest) that it didn't feel like all the other small town romances I've, admittedly, devoured. The cast of the town sets up so many possibilities for future books. Honestly, I'm very excited to see what comes next.
I know I've read books by both authors before, but I believe this is their first co-authored work together that I've read and it did not disappoint at all.
this and all future re-reads: so good. I love Dex and Meyer so much.
Charming Butte is a town I hope to read many more stories in. The desert/alien thing was unique enough (most others seem to be PNW, southern, New England, or very midwest) that it didn't feel like all the other small town romances I've, admittedly, devoured. The cast of the town sets up so many possibilities for future books. Honestly, I'm very excited to see what comes next.
I know I've read books by both authors before, but I believe this is their first co-authored work together that I've read and it did not disappoint at all.
this and all future re-reads: so good. I love Dex and Meyer so much.
March 13, 2025
This is the first book of what will be an enjoyable series, Charming Butte. This is the story of Meyer Jones and Dex Chase. Meyer is a firefighter who escaped to Chicago as soon as he was able. But now with his mom in poor health, he has moved back home to be closer to her. He gave up his hard earned promotion to come and be the new Assistant Fire Chief in Charming Butte. Dex is a beloved son of the town. He now owns and runs the family cattle ranch after his parents died. He has worked hard to make it a success. The two meet on Meyer's first day in town. Dex is younger than Meyer and remembers him as the football quarterback that never let him play in a game. Dex believes that Meyer is homophobic and is not welcoming to Meyer. If it wasn't for Dex being close with Meyer's mom, he might not have helped him at all. Meyer of course is not homophobic but was trying to protect Dex without letting him know. This is their story. This is a light and low angst read. The book is written well and is easy to read. If you are looking for a small town romance, this is a good read for a rainy afternoon.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 8, 2025
Flirting With Fire (Charming Butte, Book 1) by Morticia Knight
A swoon-worthy, second-chance romance with sizzling chemistry, small-town charm, and just the right amount of angst. Dex has spent years trying to forget the high school crush who once broke his heart, but when Meyer—now a smokin’ hot firefighter—returns to town, avoiding him becomes impossible.
Meyer never meant to hurt Dex, but fate has a funny way of forcing people back together. A broken-down car leads to an unexpected reunion—one that has him holding on tight to the very man who’s spent years pretending he doesn’t care. But old wounds and lingering tension threaten to keep them apart unless Meyer can prove that this time, he’s here to stay.
With fiery banter, undeniable heat, and a town full of quirky characters, Flirting With Fire is a heartwarming and steamy romance about forgiveness, second chances, and love that refuses to burn out.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
A swoon-worthy, second-chance romance with sizzling chemistry, small-town charm, and just the right amount of angst. Dex has spent years trying to forget the high school crush who once broke his heart, but when Meyer—now a smokin’ hot firefighter—returns to town, avoiding him becomes impossible.
Meyer never meant to hurt Dex, but fate has a funny way of forcing people back together. A broken-down car leads to an unexpected reunion—one that has him holding on tight to the very man who’s spent years pretending he doesn’t care. But old wounds and lingering tension threaten to keep them apart unless Meyer can prove that this time, he’s here to stay.
With fiery banter, undeniable heat, and a town full of quirky characters, Flirting With Fire is a heartwarming and steamy romance about forgiveness, second chances, and love that refuses to burn out.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 8, 2025
Flirting With Fire is the first book in a new series set in Charming Butte. It stars Dex, ranch owner, and Meyer, assistant fire chief. This is told in first person from Dex and Meyer’s povs.
The blurb does a decent job of describing the plot so I won’t repeat it much. I don’t know if this is the first collaborative work written by these two authors, but it’s the first one I’ve read by them and it didn’t work for me. I’ve read many books by each individual author, and they have stories that are better than this one. In fact, this was verging on a DNF for me, but I pushed through, even though I had to set this aside many times and read something else.
There were numerous things that bothered me about this story. First was the extensive internal monologue by both characters. They told readers what they thought, felt, and saw. There were instances of one character giving a long monologue of what they were thinking, and then, when the other mc asked what they were thinking, the whole inner monologue was then repeated as dialogue to the other person. It was repetitive and bland. I wasn’t drawn to the mcs as people because the writing wasn’t expressed in a way to make me feel, they told me what happened. The characters didn’t come across as having much depth to me. I didn’t believe in them as a couple.
The characters weren’t consistent in their personalities. Sometimes they acted confident, and then suddenly, mostly Dex, acted like an insecure teenager. Meyer seemed clueless at times and insensitive to Dex’s feelings, then next he wanted to be Dex’s protector. Any problems that cropped up were quickly solved so there was only superficial conflict making the interactions bland.
While reading, I quickly got the feeling the plot was planned, with characters having certain reactions that I had read in other books. For instance, the cave scene was predictable in terms of expected actions and dialogue. That was probably the most expected place of conflict between the two characters, but for me, it fell short. The title makes it sound like there would be strong conflict as the two mcs struggle to reconcile their past. But that wasn’t the case. No heat, no fire except Meyer was the assistant fire chief.
Overall, Flirting with Fire was disappointing. It had an overabundance of monologue so that the story came across as telling, and made Meyer and Dex lack depth. My suggestion is to read books the individual authors wrote instead of this one. Both authors have stories that are better than this. I give this book, 2 Stars.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The blurb does a decent job of describing the plot so I won’t repeat it much. I don’t know if this is the first collaborative work written by these two authors, but it’s the first one I’ve read by them and it didn’t work for me. I’ve read many books by each individual author, and they have stories that are better than this one. In fact, this was verging on a DNF for me, but I pushed through, even though I had to set this aside many times and read something else.
There were numerous things that bothered me about this story. First was the extensive internal monologue by both characters. They told readers what they thought, felt, and saw. There were instances of one character giving a long monologue of what they were thinking, and then, when the other mc asked what they were thinking, the whole inner monologue was then repeated as dialogue to the other person. It was repetitive and bland. I wasn’t drawn to the mcs as people because the writing wasn’t expressed in a way to make me feel, they told me what happened. The characters didn’t come across as having much depth to me. I didn’t believe in them as a couple.
The characters weren’t consistent in their personalities. Sometimes they acted confident, and then suddenly, mostly Dex, acted like an insecure teenager. Meyer seemed clueless at times and insensitive to Dex’s feelings, then next he wanted to be Dex’s protector. Any problems that cropped up were quickly solved so there was only superficial conflict making the interactions bland.
While reading, I quickly got the feeling the plot was planned, with characters having certain reactions that I had read in other books. For instance, the cave scene was predictable in terms of expected actions and dialogue. That was probably the most expected place of conflict between the two characters, but for me, it fell short. The title makes it sound like there would be strong conflict as the two mcs struggle to reconcile their past. But that wasn’t the case. No heat, no fire except Meyer was the assistant fire chief.
Overall, Flirting with Fire was disappointing. It had an overabundance of monologue so that the story came across as telling, and made Meyer and Dex lack depth. My suggestion is to read books the individual authors wrote instead of this one. Both authors have stories that are better than this. I give this book, 2 Stars.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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February 28, 2025DNF @ 75%
Cowboy x firefighter + low-angst + slow burn = I got bored.
I was actually super happy with Meyer’s reasoning behind pushing Dex away as teens (Meyer was a senior and Dex a freshman so 18 & 15) but his behaviour as a teen was weird tbh and then the whole drama of their animosity towards each other fizzled. Unfortunately that was the only “angst” so without that tension there just wasn’t anything left to keep my interest.
The thing that most bothers me is why Meyer’s mom hid her relationship with the fire chief aka Meyer’s now boss. Like obviously they’ve been dating a while… why would you keep that from your adult son esp when he moves back home and starts working with your bf??? But I don’t care enough to finish the book lol
Cowboy x firefighter + low-angst + slow burn = I got bored.
I was actually super happy with Meyer’s reasoning behind pushing Dex away as teens (Meyer was a senior and Dex a freshman so 18 & 15) but his behaviour as a teen was weird tbh and then the whole drama of their animosity towards each other fizzled. Unfortunately that was the only “angst” so without that tension there just wasn’t anything left to keep my interest.
The thing that most bothers me is why Meyer’s mom hid her relationship with the fire chief aka Meyer’s now boss. Like obviously they’ve been dating a while… why would you keep that from your adult son esp when he moves back home and starts working with your bf??? But I don’t care enough to finish the book lol
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 3, 2025
Oh boy. I probably would have dnf'ed it if it wasn't an ARC and only about 200 pages long. (It still took me WAY too long)
But this wasn't it.
First of all: The book is called flirting with Fire and there is no firefighting action. Yes, one MC is a firefighter, but that's not at all relevant for the story, he could have done any other job, it was only for the other MC to feel "protected" (in his own words). I expected it to be at least a bit action packed regarding firefighting, and it wasn't. The one scene that included a fire fighting run-out also didn't depend on the MC being a firefighter, because he was the victim in this scene.
The book in general lacks substance and is a slow-burn while the relationship development is too fast and not substantial at the same time. The MCs are kinda hating each other but kinda don't but kinda do, it feels like the authors weren't sure which path to put them on for a long time. They had a backstory that started in Highschool with both of them crushing on each other but they didn't get that (which I found kinda unrealistic), and then one of the MCs thought the other was homophobic because MC 1 was captain of the football team and benched MC 2 because he was scared MC 2 gets hurt?? This is not only super toxic (MC 2 later thinks that's cute??), but also extremely unrealistic, no captain of a HIGHSCHOOL football team will have any say in who gets to play and who doesn't.
And yes, these two have history, but they crushed on each other in highschool, haven't seen each other in 10 years (they didn't even recognise each other) and it takes like two weeks until they get together? It just lacked depth, not only in how they got together but also as characters. Therefore I wasn't invested and was mostly just plain bored. There were also some inconsistencies or even weird takes in there, for example Dex (MC 1) is obviously loved by the whole town, everyone is warning Meyer to be good to him, and still Dex thinks he's not "Mr. Personality" regarding being able to have a booth at a town fair. Also Meyer says he spent a lot of time at Dex's ranch as a child, but in another chapter they talk about Dex always being at Meyer's and how Meyer never set a foot in Dex's childhood home? Didn't they ever use a toilet or get something to drink while they were spending so much time together? Meyer's mom keeping her boyfriend from him also just sat weird with me.
Also there was this quote: "his lashes that were curled a bit too much for such a masculine man" - SINCE WHEN are LASHES and how they're CURLED gendered???
I know it's an opening to a new series, but there were way too many side characters in these 200 pages. I couldn't distinct them from each other AT ALL.
Oh and the whole book is written in simple past, but then flashbacks would have to be written in another tense, don't they?
It just wasn't a good book and was advertised weirdly considering there's no firefighting action.
---- I've received an ARC in exchange for my honest opinion ----
But this wasn't it.
First of all: The book is called flirting with Fire and there is no firefighting action. Yes, one MC is a firefighter, but that's not at all relevant for the story, he could have done any other job, it was only for the other MC to feel "protected" (in his own words). I expected it to be at least a bit action packed regarding firefighting, and it wasn't. The one scene that included a fire fighting run-out also didn't depend on the MC being a firefighter, because he was the victim in this scene.
The book in general lacks substance and is a slow-burn while the relationship development is too fast and not substantial at the same time. The MCs are kinda hating each other but kinda don't but kinda do, it feels like the authors weren't sure which path to put them on for a long time. They had a backstory that started in Highschool with both of them crushing on each other but they didn't get that (which I found kinda unrealistic), and then one of the MCs thought the other was homophobic because MC 1 was captain of the football team and benched MC 2 because he was scared MC 2 gets hurt?? This is not only super toxic (MC 2 later thinks that's cute??), but also extremely unrealistic, no captain of a HIGHSCHOOL football team will have any say in who gets to play and who doesn't.
And yes, these two have history, but they crushed on each other in highschool, haven't seen each other in 10 years (they didn't even recognise each other) and it takes like two weeks until they get together? It just lacked depth, not only in how they got together but also as characters. Therefore I wasn't invested and was mostly just plain bored. There were also some inconsistencies or even weird takes in there, for example Dex (MC 1) is obviously loved by the whole town, everyone is warning Meyer to be good to him, and still Dex thinks he's not "Mr. Personality" regarding being able to have a booth at a town fair. Also Meyer says he spent a lot of time at Dex's ranch as a child, but in another chapter they talk about Dex always being at Meyer's and how Meyer never set a foot in Dex's childhood home? Didn't they ever use a toilet or get something to drink while they were spending so much time together? Meyer's mom keeping her boyfriend from him also just sat weird with me.
Also there was this quote: "his lashes that were curled a bit too much for such a masculine man" - SINCE WHEN are LASHES and how they're CURLED gendered???
I know it's an opening to a new series, but there were way too many side characters in these 200 pages. I couldn't distinct them from each other AT ALL.
Oh and the whole book is written in simple past, but then flashbacks would have to be written in another tense, don't they?
It just wasn't a good book and was advertised weirdly considering there's no firefighting action.
---- I've received an ARC in exchange for my honest opinion ----
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 2, 2025
Meyer is heading home, away from Chicago, the big city with all its bustle and back to his hometown, a small, quiet out of the way place Charming Butte is where he now feels he not only needs to be but belongs.
Dex has never left. After a tragic accident took his parents he took over the running of the family ranch. He knows everyone in town, of course he does, this is a small town, and they all look out for him. He is especially good friends with Meyer's mother.
When Meyer's car breaks down a few miles out of town, Dex happens to be passing on his daily horse ride and offers the other man a lift. Meyer is very taken by the gorgeous man on horseback but has no idea who it is, not until they reach his mother's house. He also has no idea why this other man is so surly towards him, even after he learns it is Dex. They were on the school football team together but were they really friends as his mother has assumed? Dex thinks not. All he knows is that Meyer was his HIgh School Crush and seemed to do everything he could to keep Dex away.
Long conversations with his sister, now living in Denver, help Dex see how he needs to come to terms with the past and try to move on. Meyer looks like he's here to stay, he is now Assistant Chief at the firehouse and probably Dex's new tenant, renting a cottage on the Ranch. But as the pair settle into this new normal some local kids find themselves in trouble and the pair find themselves trapped in an abandoned mine. Being trapped with your frenemy, now knowing what comes next can do amazing things to a person...
This town, its people, the ranch, the firestation, the coffee shops, the special cakes and pastries... It is all wonderfully built from the first page so that, by the time we reach the end of the story it feels like home to us readers too. The characters feel like our own neighbours and I for one would love the salsa and cake recipes, though aliens bums might not be for everyone!
Dex and Meyer move from fenemy's to more over the course of the story but not before we are given time to get to know each of them a little more. We discover their hopes and fears, their dreams and we share their everydays too. We are with them as they build, or should that be rebuild a something, and it all feels like home. This is a sexy and romantic read which hints at plenty of steam but focuses on character and setting, drawing us deeply into the lives of these characters and their community. I am hooked and can't wait to see what more surprises Charming Butte has to offer.
Dex has never left. After a tragic accident took his parents he took over the running of the family ranch. He knows everyone in town, of course he does, this is a small town, and they all look out for him. He is especially good friends with Meyer's mother.
When Meyer's car breaks down a few miles out of town, Dex happens to be passing on his daily horse ride and offers the other man a lift. Meyer is very taken by the gorgeous man on horseback but has no idea who it is, not until they reach his mother's house. He also has no idea why this other man is so surly towards him, even after he learns it is Dex. They were on the school football team together but were they really friends as his mother has assumed? Dex thinks not. All he knows is that Meyer was his HIgh School Crush and seemed to do everything he could to keep Dex away.
Long conversations with his sister, now living in Denver, help Dex see how he needs to come to terms with the past and try to move on. Meyer looks like he's here to stay, he is now Assistant Chief at the firehouse and probably Dex's new tenant, renting a cottage on the Ranch. But as the pair settle into this new normal some local kids find themselves in trouble and the pair find themselves trapped in an abandoned mine. Being trapped with your frenemy, now knowing what comes next can do amazing things to a person...
This town, its people, the ranch, the firestation, the coffee shops, the special cakes and pastries... It is all wonderfully built from the first page so that, by the time we reach the end of the story it feels like home to us readers too. The characters feel like our own neighbours and I for one would love the salsa and cake recipes, though aliens bums might not be for everyone!
Dex and Meyer move from fenemy's to more over the course of the story but not before we are given time to get to know each of them a little more. We discover their hopes and fears, their dreams and we share their everydays too. We are with them as they build, or should that be rebuild a something, and it all feels like home. This is a sexy and romantic read which hints at plenty of steam but focuses on character and setting, drawing us deeply into the lives of these characters and their community. I am hooked and can't wait to see what more surprises Charming Butte has to offer.
March 13, 2025
I was doing SOOO good at not requesting too many ARCs and getting overwhelmed and reading them at the very last minute..and here we are. Here's Sue Brown and Morticia Knight's "Flirting With Fire." It's the first novel in their Charming Butte series.
["A smokin’ hot firefighter. A handsome, lonely rancher. Can these frenemies turn a cosmic misunderstanding into undying love?
Dex
It was supposed to be my typical peaceful morning horse ride followed by a clandestine cruller, cup of Joe at the Flying Saucer, and the day-in-day-out routine of ranching. Instead, my world explodes like an alien abduction gone wrong when my high school crush has the nerve to cross my path. Too bad he’s even hotter than he was when he broke my heart ten years ago.
Meyer
I dropped everything in Chicago to start over as assistant fire chief in my hometown of Charming Butte. Of all the people to run into when my old Chevy breaks down is the one guy who inexplicably hates me. Now, I get to make my triumphant return to town on the back of his horse. But with my arms wrapped around his solid frame, I wonder if I can make him forget our past in favor of a future together."]
Oh, the joys of enemies to lovers. And the fact that they were both so openly hostile BECAUSE the other was openly hostile "first"? Men.
Not to mention that they were each other's first crush? Add in all of those teenage hormones and some miscommunication?
Plus all of the small town drama, gossip, and best-place/worst-place to eat/drink/go stuff?! Yes!!
As I'm gushing about all of the tropes and cliches, I just want everyone to know that this book was still soooo unique and adorable and utterly perfect (minus that miscommunication bs--then again, it added to the perfect amount of angst and undeniable heat).
Trigger Warnings: off-page past death of parent, and more.
#gayromancereviews #grr #arcs #arcteammember
#flirtingwithfire #suebrown #morticiaknight #charmingbutte #charmingbutteseries #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks
["A smokin’ hot firefighter. A handsome, lonely rancher. Can these frenemies turn a cosmic misunderstanding into undying love?
Dex
It was supposed to be my typical peaceful morning horse ride followed by a clandestine cruller, cup of Joe at the Flying Saucer, and the day-in-day-out routine of ranching. Instead, my world explodes like an alien abduction gone wrong when my high school crush has the nerve to cross my path. Too bad he’s even hotter than he was when he broke my heart ten years ago.
Meyer
I dropped everything in Chicago to start over as assistant fire chief in my hometown of Charming Butte. Of all the people to run into when my old Chevy breaks down is the one guy who inexplicably hates me. Now, I get to make my triumphant return to town on the back of his horse. But with my arms wrapped around his solid frame, I wonder if I can make him forget our past in favor of a future together."]
Oh, the joys of enemies to lovers. And the fact that they were both so openly hostile BECAUSE the other was openly hostile "first"? Men.
Not to mention that they were each other's first crush? Add in all of those teenage hormones and some miscommunication?
Plus all of the small town drama, gossip, and best-place/worst-place to eat/drink/go stuff?! Yes!!
As I'm gushing about all of the tropes and cliches, I just want everyone to know that this book was still soooo unique and adorable and utterly perfect (minus that miscommunication bs--then again, it added to the perfect amount of angst and undeniable heat).
Trigger Warnings: off-page past death of parent, and more.
#gayromancereviews #grr #arcs #arcteammember
#flirtingwithfire #suebrown #morticiaknight #charmingbutte #charmingbutteseries #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks
May 4, 2025
DNF @ 31%
The writing felt a bit awkward? Like certain sentences would come up out of nowhere feeling like they were out of place in context with the rest of the paragraph or people just generally acted off.
eg:
Meyer asking Dex how he knew his mom, a generally innocuous question that Dex somehow realized carried an accusatory tone (I don't even know where Meyer suddenly got the idea that someone was taking advantage of his mother in a small town where everyone knew each other)
Meyer's mom not telling him she was dating his boss.
Meyer not recognizing people despite having grown up with these people and he supposedly visited every once in a while.
The paragraph when Meyer went to pick up his car was awkwardly ordered since the sentence saying he was calling the auto shop for a ride was so far away from when the guy came and picked him up.
Also, the tone between Meyer and Dex's interactions seemed to vary wildly even within the same scene.
Like in their very first interaction when Dex picks Meyer up from the side of the road, Meyer accuses Dex of taking advantage of his mother and tells him off for looking down at his be job. Dex is sort of irritated but then suddenly asks Meyer if he needs a lift and even genuinely laughs during the conversation they have during the trip. Where was the awkward animosity over the mutual rudeness?
Or when Dex randomly stifled a chuckle after he and Meyer were just snippy with each other. Or how later in that same dinner, Meyer apologized for being rude yet still continued to be rude by bringing a red velvet cake (which I also didn't understand why Dex took issue with that)
TL;DR: Writing was consistently awkward and some parts of scenes didn't make sense to me. The essence of what the scene was trying to say was there, primarily that Meyer was a fish out of water at Charming Butte and there was animosity between him and Dex, but the way that was conveyed was a bit nonsensical in my eyes.
The writing felt a bit awkward? Like certain sentences would come up out of nowhere feeling like they were out of place in context with the rest of the paragraph or people just generally acted off.
eg:
Meyer asking Dex how he knew his mom, a generally innocuous question that Dex somehow realized carried an accusatory tone (I don't even know where Meyer suddenly got the idea that someone was taking advantage of his mother in a small town where everyone knew each other)
Meyer's mom not telling him she was dating his boss.
Meyer not recognizing people despite having grown up with these people and he supposedly visited every once in a while.
The paragraph when Meyer went to pick up his car was awkwardly ordered since the sentence saying he was calling the auto shop for a ride was so far away from when the guy came and picked him up.
Also, the tone between Meyer and Dex's interactions seemed to vary wildly even within the same scene.
Like in their very first interaction when Dex picks Meyer up from the side of the road, Meyer accuses Dex of taking advantage of his mother and tells him off for looking down at his be job. Dex is sort of irritated but then suddenly asks Meyer if he needs a lift and even genuinely laughs during the conversation they have during the trip. Where was the awkward animosity over the mutual rudeness?
Or when Dex randomly stifled a chuckle after he and Meyer were just snippy with each other. Or how later in that same dinner, Meyer apologized for being rude yet still continued to be rude by bringing a red velvet cake (which I also didn't understand why Dex took issue with that)
TL;DR: Writing was consistently awkward and some parts of scenes didn't make sense to me. The essence of what the scene was trying to say was there, primarily that Meyer was a fish out of water at Charming Butte and there was animosity between him and Dex, but the way that was conveyed was a bit nonsensical in my eyes.
March 6, 2025
This book had me laughing right from the start! From unexpected breakdowns to small-town gossip spreading faster than wildfire, it’s the perfect blend of humor, heart, and sizzling chemistry.
Meyer’s journey back to his hometown is both relatable and entertaining. No matter how long you’ve been away, things will change—and sometimes, those changes come as a shock. Adjusting from city life back to small-town living isn’t easy, especially when you’re faced with familiar faces and unresolved history. And then there’s Dex—a sweet, hardworking man who has been there for Meyer’s mom for years. His quiet dedication is admirable, but Meyer’s return leaves him feeling uncertain about his place in her life.
The tension between Meyer and Dex is palpable, with Meyer clueless about what’s really going on and Dex giving off major “I can’t stand you” vibes. But underneath it all, the chemistry between them is undeniable. As Assistant Fire Chief, Meyer certainly knows how to start a fire—both literally and figuratively. Their journey from miscommunication and old assumptions to understanding and love is incredibly satisfying.
The small-town charm in this book is a delight, from the quirky residents to the lightning-fast spread of gossip. And let’s not forget Meyer’s mom, who deserves an award for her sneaky matchmaking tactics. If there’s one thing to learn from this story, it’s that moms always know best!
At its core, this is a heartwarming story about love, second chances, and the importance of communication. Once Meyer and Dex finally break down their walls, they make a fantastic couple with a well-earned happily ever after. If you love small-town romance, humor, and plenty of swoon-worthy moments, this book is a must-read!
I received a free copy of this book and voluntarily leaving a review.
Monica
Meyer’s journey back to his hometown is both relatable and entertaining. No matter how long you’ve been away, things will change—and sometimes, those changes come as a shock. Adjusting from city life back to small-town living isn’t easy, especially when you’re faced with familiar faces and unresolved history. And then there’s Dex—a sweet, hardworking man who has been there for Meyer’s mom for years. His quiet dedication is admirable, but Meyer’s return leaves him feeling uncertain about his place in her life.
The tension between Meyer and Dex is palpable, with Meyer clueless about what’s really going on and Dex giving off major “I can’t stand you” vibes. But underneath it all, the chemistry between them is undeniable. As Assistant Fire Chief, Meyer certainly knows how to start a fire—both literally and figuratively. Their journey from miscommunication and old assumptions to understanding and love is incredibly satisfying.
The small-town charm in this book is a delight, from the quirky residents to the lightning-fast spread of gossip. And let’s not forget Meyer’s mom, who deserves an award for her sneaky matchmaking tactics. If there’s one thing to learn from this story, it’s that moms always know best!
At its core, this is a heartwarming story about love, second chances, and the importance of communication. Once Meyer and Dex finally break down their walls, they make a fantastic couple with a well-earned happily ever after. If you love small-town romance, humor, and plenty of swoon-worthy moments, this book is a must-read!
I received a free copy of this book and voluntarily leaving a review.
Monica
March 2, 2025
Meyer Jones returns to the community where he grew up, as the new Assistant Fire Chief. He’s returned mostly to be close to his mother, whose been having health issues. His return is less than triumphant, though, when his car breaks down on his way to his first day of work. Fortunately, Dex Chase comes by on horseback to give Meyer a lift to work. Though Dex and Meyer went to the same high school, and played on the football team together, Meyer doesn’t recognize Dex at first. Dex had a big crush on Meyer, although he believed Meyer kept Dex from playing because of homophobia.
The two keep being thrown together. Dex has been helping Meyer’s mother, Lindy; and Lindy invites Dex and Meyer to dinner together, and points out that Dex has a guest cottage to rent that would be perfect for Meyer. This makes it difficult for both to keep fighting their mutual attraction. Eventually the two talk everything out. Turns out, Meyer was trying to protect the younger and skinnier Dex from being injured – and that Meyer also had a big crush on Dex, but felt it would be inappropriate for an 18 year old senior to date a 15 year old freshman.
This is a solid story with little angst, giving both characters a second chance. There are also some fun secondary characters – like the owners of two different coffee shops – and a good shared jeopardy scene in an abandoned mine. Recommended.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The two keep being thrown together. Dex has been helping Meyer’s mother, Lindy; and Lindy invites Dex and Meyer to dinner together, and points out that Dex has a guest cottage to rent that would be perfect for Meyer. This makes it difficult for both to keep fighting their mutual attraction. Eventually the two talk everything out. Turns out, Meyer was trying to protect the younger and skinnier Dex from being injured – and that Meyer also had a big crush on Dex, but felt it would be inappropriate for an 18 year old senior to date a 15 year old freshman.
This is a solid story with little angst, giving both characters a second chance. There are also some fun secondary characters – like the owners of two different coffee shops – and a good shared jeopardy scene in an abandoned mine. Recommended.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 5, 2025
Small town where everyone knows everything about each other but not everything with Meyer Jones, late 30s, no one knew is secret other than his parents. He left his hometown to Chicago to pursuit a career in firefighting same as his dad was. He was 18 when he left now over a decade later Meyer is back in Charming Butte (no idea the state), to take his new second of command at the same firehouse his dad was a part of. His return is a big surprise for his mom and the rest of the town, but his car breaks down and some strange but built cowboy on his horse was there to rescue Meyer to bring him into town to his mom's house.
Dex Chase, early 30s, rancher and keeping his family's ranch above water, everyone knows and respects his sexuality, and they are very protective over him, so they don't want to see Dex get hurt by anyone.
Dex and Meyer were each other's first crush but Dex thinks Meyer is straight and homophobic due to what happened in football practices/games and told Dex to stay away from his house since the team always hung out there. That made Dex build walls around his heart where Meyer is concerned, so when he rescued Meyer from his broken car, Dex knew his life had changed including his good friend Lindy, Meyer's mom. But will that be changing for the good or the bad????
March 11, 2025
Oh, that author duo worked really well for me. Their writing styles blended together seamlessly in my opinion and I really liked the way the story was written.
I was often laughing out loud while reading and overall had a lot of fun with this book.
The MCs were likeable and well done, their voices different enough to tell them apart.
I enjoyed the whole quirky small town vibe with all its nosey busybodies and knowitalls.
Definitely an enjoyable, easy and well written read with a good pacing. I didn't have the feeling as if it all developed too fast. Just right for those two, perhaps because they already knew each other and more or less only needed to clear up some past misunderstandings to finally get what they both wanted all along. Each other.
That there was a lot of tangible chemistry between the MCs was more than clear and I was definitely rooting for them hard. And believe me when those two gave that chemistry the chance? Oh my, it got hot very fast ;)
Interesting secondary characters rounded the story up nicely and helped me being excited for the next book in the series.
Conclusion: I was invested in the story and had to read it in one go. I am definitely excited for the second book.
This is my honest opinion that I'm leaving voluntary even having read a readers copy.
I was often laughing out loud while reading and overall had a lot of fun with this book.
The MCs were likeable and well done, their voices different enough to tell them apart.
I enjoyed the whole quirky small town vibe with all its nosey busybodies and knowitalls.
Definitely an enjoyable, easy and well written read with a good pacing. I didn't have the feeling as if it all developed too fast. Just right for those two, perhaps because they already knew each other and more or less only needed to clear up some past misunderstandings to finally get what they both wanted all along. Each other.
That there was a lot of tangible chemistry between the MCs was more than clear and I was definitely rooting for them hard. And believe me when those two gave that chemistry the chance? Oh my, it got hot very fast ;)
Interesting secondary characters rounded the story up nicely and helped me being excited for the next book in the series.
Conclusion: I was invested in the story and had to read it in one go. I am definitely excited for the second book.
This is my honest opinion that I'm leaving voluntary even having read a readers copy.
March 5, 2025
Flirting With Fire is the first book of the Charming Butte series by Sue Brown and Morticia Knight. This is a contemporary MM romance, set in a small mountain town, bringing together a firefighter and a cowboy.
This is almost a second chance romance, where old school friends with plenty of unspoken misunderstandings between them, are brought back together again after years apart. Dex is a cowboy who stayed in his small town, knowing that it would drastically reduce his chances of hooking up with a guy, for fun or for something more. His old friend and crush, Meyer, is moving back to town to be closer to his mother and to take up the position of assistant fire chief.
I really enjoyed the themes of childhood misunderstandings and old friends finding love together. This is a really sweet romance in the perfect mountain setting. Both men are extremely likable and easy to connect to, which made it easier to relate to their misunderstanding/miscommunication during childhood that soured at least Dex's opinion on Meyer.
I absolutely fell in love with Dex and Meyer, and I can't wait to find out what is happening next in the charming town of Charming Butt.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is almost a second chance romance, where old school friends with plenty of unspoken misunderstandings between them, are brought back together again after years apart. Dex is a cowboy who stayed in his small town, knowing that it would drastically reduce his chances of hooking up with a guy, for fun or for something more. His old friend and crush, Meyer, is moving back to town to be closer to his mother and to take up the position of assistant fire chief.
I really enjoyed the themes of childhood misunderstandings and old friends finding love together. This is a really sweet romance in the perfect mountain setting. Both men are extremely likable and easy to connect to, which made it easier to relate to their misunderstanding/miscommunication during childhood that soured at least Dex's opinion on Meyer.
I absolutely fell in love with Dex and Meyer, and I can't wait to find out what is happening next in the charming town of Charming Butt.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 10, 2025
Was it just a misunderstanding ?
Meyer has just returned to be the new Assistant fire chief in his old hometown charming butte. His mother has health issues and he feels better being there for her than where he had been working in Chicago. But his car Daisy breaks down and wouldn’t you know it? A hot cowboy comes past and offer them a ride on his horse. He knows Meyers mum. Meyer can’t work out who the guy is and is stunned when they get to his mum‘s house and she asked if he recognise Dexter?? Now he knows why the cowboy wasn’t overly friendly these two have history.
Dexter recognise.Meyer straight away and those old feelings come rushing back. He had a crush on him since they were in school, but it wasn’t returned in fact he thought that.Meyer was a homophobe. So he is surprised to find out that Meyer just broke up with his boyfriend. So where do these two go from here??
I found this book to be lighthearted and fun to read. My heart did break for Dexter at the start of the book because I could feel his heart breaking all over again but it was an enjoyable read when they finally clear the air. These two are perfect for one another.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Meyer has just returned to be the new Assistant fire chief in his old hometown charming butte. His mother has health issues and he feels better being there for her than where he had been working in Chicago. But his car Daisy breaks down and wouldn’t you know it? A hot cowboy comes past and offer them a ride on his horse. He knows Meyers mum. Meyer can’t work out who the guy is and is stunned when they get to his mum‘s house and she asked if he recognise Dexter?? Now he knows why the cowboy wasn’t overly friendly these two have history.
Dexter recognise.Meyer straight away and those old feelings come rushing back. He had a crush on him since they were in school, but it wasn’t returned in fact he thought that.Meyer was a homophobe. So he is surprised to find out that Meyer just broke up with his boyfriend. So where do these two go from here??
I found this book to be lighthearted and fun to read. My heart did break for Dexter at the start of the book because I could feel his heart breaking all over again but it was an enjoyable read when they finally clear the air. These two are perfect for one another.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 11, 2025
After reading several somewhat angsty books in a row, this title served as a refreshing palate cleanser. It was a cute tale of Dex, a local rancher in Charming Butte, and Meyer, a prodigal son of sorts returning to the town as assistant fire chief to help out his mother.
It's a charming tale set in a quirky desert town as Dex and Meyer clash at first due to a misunderstanding from when they were younger but eventually talk it out and find themselves attracted to one another. The supporting characters were interesting, as well, particularly Lindy, Meyer's mother, and the fire chief who also happens to be dating her.
There were a few missed opportunities here, among them the fact that more could have been done with the subplot of Lindy and the fire chief dating- Meyer just assumes they are and pretty much leaves it at that. It could have been pretty cute if that scenario had been played with just a bit more by the authors. And the resolution of Meyer and Dex's conflict seemed a bit quick, going from 0 to 60 rather quickly- it felt a bit rushed to me.
Still, the story's writing style is breezy enough and the plot light enough to make up for such moments and reads quite enjoyably. I'm definitely looking forward to the next installment in the series.
It's a charming tale set in a quirky desert town as Dex and Meyer clash at first due to a misunderstanding from when they were younger but eventually talk it out and find themselves attracted to one another. The supporting characters were interesting, as well, particularly Lindy, Meyer's mother, and the fire chief who also happens to be dating her.
There were a few missed opportunities here, among them the fact that more could have been done with the subplot of Lindy and the fire chief dating- Meyer just assumes they are and pretty much leaves it at that. It could have been pretty cute if that scenario had been played with just a bit more by the authors. And the resolution of Meyer and Dex's conflict seemed a bit quick, going from 0 to 60 rather quickly- it felt a bit rushed to me.
Still, the story's writing style is breezy enough and the plot light enough to make up for such moments and reads quite enjoyably. I'm definitely looking forward to the next installment in the series.
March 11, 2025
This is a cute "second chance" small-town romance between the awkward rancher and the wandering golden son who has returned.
Dex likes his life exactly how it is, running the ranch and casually being on the outskirts of things in Charming Butte (or so he thinks). However, when his childhood crush Meyer (who he thinks is straight) rolls back into town, he feels his carefully constructed life tilting slightly sideways.
Overall this story was a cute and fun read, but I didn't really connect with it overall. The reasoning for the one-sided animosity was kind of silly ultimately and didn't feel fully fleshed out. I also felt like these two were butting heads and then just kind of...got over it and were in HEA mode, even though they didn't really resolve much of anything (beyond one heart-to-heart in extremely contrived conditions).
I loved the side characters in this story (even if there was a fairly big B-plot that never felt fully resolved at all), and this book is full of the small-town quirky characters that make me love fictional small towns more than real ones. I just wish I had connected to the main characters a little more.
I enjoyed this book fine enough, it just wasn't a home run for me. I am curious about the rest of the series though, so definitely ready for more of this town!
Dex likes his life exactly how it is, running the ranch and casually being on the outskirts of things in Charming Butte (or so he thinks). However, when his childhood crush Meyer (who he thinks is straight) rolls back into town, he feels his carefully constructed life tilting slightly sideways.
Overall this story was a cute and fun read, but I didn't really connect with it overall. The reasoning for the one-sided animosity was kind of silly ultimately and didn't feel fully fleshed out. I also felt like these two were butting heads and then just kind of...got over it and were in HEA mode, even though they didn't really resolve much of anything (beyond one heart-to-heart in extremely contrived conditions).
I loved the side characters in this story (even if there was a fairly big B-plot that never felt fully resolved at all), and this book is full of the small-town quirky characters that make me love fictional small towns more than real ones. I just wish I had connected to the main characters a little more.
I enjoyed this book fine enough, it just wasn't a home run for me. I am curious about the rest of the series though, so definitely ready for more of this town!
March 11, 2025
Flirting with Fire is a low angst, only slightly steamy, pretty quick read. I liked both Dex & Meyer and found them cute together. They have a little bit of drama with each other early on – a mix of leftover feelings from high school and a bit from how Meyer coming back to town might affect their lives – but then it’s all about them settling in to their romance.
If I do have any complaints, it’s that those feelings were an issue for pretty much half the book and then their relationship went from 0 to 60 in an instant. I think there needed to be a little more resolution of their dynamic and a deeper friendship created before they moved on. But it’s a small complaint as overall I got a kick out of the two of them together and the dual POV worked well as they danced around each other.
If you are looking for a light, fast read with enjoyable characters, cute banter, and quirky small town fun, Flirting with Fire is a good choice. I found it to be the perfect read for a lazy spring day, relaxing and enjoying two good & decent men find a HEA with each other.
**I voluntarily read and reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.**
If I do have any complaints, it’s that those feelings were an issue for pretty much half the book and then their relationship went from 0 to 60 in an instant. I think there needed to be a little more resolution of their dynamic and a deeper friendship created before they moved on. But it’s a small complaint as overall I got a kick out of the two of them together and the dual POV worked well as they danced around each other.
If you are looking for a light, fast read with enjoyable characters, cute banter, and quirky small town fun, Flirting with Fire is a good choice. I found it to be the perfect read for a lazy spring day, relaxing and enjoying two good & decent men find a HEA with each other.
**I voluntarily read and reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.**
March 16, 2025
This is a delightful, low heat, enemies to lovers book set in a small New Mexico town. Meyer was a firefighter in Chicago but has come home to Charming Butte to be the new Assistant Fire Chief and be near his mom who has health issues. Dex is a local rancher, and has been keeping an eye on Meyer’s mom since his parents died a few years ago.
Meyer and Dex had secret crushes on each other in high school, and Dex still harbors hurt feelings, while Meyer is basically clueless with what is going on with Dex. The attraction is still there, and with communication during an unusual situation, the “air” is cleared and the chance is there to fulfill the desires from so many years ago.
Sweet, charming, low angst reconnection tale for Dex and Meyer many years later, in a small quirky town where everyone knows your name and business. The story is interesting, it just flows naturally, and could easily happen anywhere in America. A light-hearted, entertaining, medium-length read which left me with smiles and a sense of satisfaction at the end.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Meyer and Dex had secret crushes on each other in high school, and Dex still harbors hurt feelings, while Meyer is basically clueless with what is going on with Dex. The attraction is still there, and with communication during an unusual situation, the “air” is cleared and the chance is there to fulfill the desires from so many years ago.
Sweet, charming, low angst reconnection tale for Dex and Meyer many years later, in a small quirky town where everyone knows your name and business. The story is interesting, it just flows naturally, and could easily happen anywhere in America. A light-hearted, entertaining, medium-length read which left me with smiles and a sense of satisfaction at the end.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 28, 2025
This is a great story to read! This is the start of a new series. This story takes place in the small town of Charming Butte. Meyer is returning to Charming Butte to be the Assistant Fire Chief. Meyer went to Chicago when he turned 18. He moved up in the Firehouse there. Meyer turned down the promotion in Chicago to move back to Charming Butte. Meyer's car stops just outside of Charming Butte. He is walking into town when Dex walks up on Juniper out for his daily walk. Dex offer to take Meyer to his mom's house. Dex and Meyer keep running into each other. The more time they spend together the more they talk. Dex agrees to rent the cottage to Dex. While they are eating lunch and going over the paperwork, there is a knock on the window and they go investigate. Dex goes into the mine looking for the kid while Meyer calls it in. When Meyer goes after Dex there is a cave in, and they get trapped inside. While they wait for help to arrive they talk. Will Dex find out why he was sidelined in High School???? Will Meyer finally admit his truth to Dex???.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 11, 2025
While I have to admit, I really do like stories where one of the main characters gets a chance to see what it would be like to finally get a chance to be with their crush. Meyer was Dex's fantasy and serious high school crush. Meyer returning from Chicago to be the Assistant Fire Chief in his home town gives Dex a chance to reconcile the past and see what the future might hold. They live in a small town so the opportunities to cross one another's paths are numerous. Dex winds up rescuing Meyer on his first day of work when his car breaks down and Dex gives him a lift on his horse - how cool is that. It was so neat that there is attraction on both sides now and with a little help from their friends and family - Dex's mom - they finally get to the point where they talk, clear the air, misunderstandings from the past are cleared up and they come to realize the feelings are mutual. This was a neat story.
I received an ARC from GRR and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received an ARC from GRR and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 7, 2025
3.5 stars
Meyer Jones is back in Charming Butte to begin his new job as the assistant fire chief. After a decade in Chicago, he returns to be close to his mother after a health scare. In the small town where he grew up, he meets the one guy he left behind because to do anything else would have been wrong. But Dex Chase doesn't know that, and the misunderstanding that keeps them sniping at each other does nothing to decrease the growing chemistry between them. This is a cute, sweet-and-spicy small town romance. I was annoyed by the length of time it took two grown men to talk to each other and clear up the past, and the addition of all the eccentrics, while a cute quirk, also got somewhat tiresome.
Meyer Jones is back in Charming Butte to begin his new job as the assistant fire chief. After a decade in Chicago, he returns to be close to his mother after a health scare. In the small town where he grew up, he meets the one guy he left behind because to do anything else would have been wrong. But Dex Chase doesn't know that, and the misunderstanding that keeps them sniping at each other does nothing to decrease the growing chemistry between them. This is a cute, sweet-and-spicy small town romance. I was annoyed by the length of time it took two grown men to talk to each other and clear up the past, and the addition of all the eccentrics, while a cute quirk, also got somewhat tiresome.
March 9, 2025
Flirting With Fire is a sizzling second-chance romance set in a charming small town, packed with chemistry, angst, and heart. Dex has spent years trying to forget Meyer, the high school crush who once broke his heart. But when Meyer—now a ridiculously attractive firefighter—returns to town, avoiding him is no longer an option. Meyer never intended to hurt Dex, but fate throws them back together in the form of a broken-down car and an unexpected reunion. As old wounds and unresolved feelings surface, Meyer is determined to prove he’s here to stay. With fiery banter, undeniable heat, and a town full of quirky characters, this steamy romance is a story of forgiveness, love that refuses to fade, and the sparks that reignite when you least expect them.
March 10, 2025
Fliting With Fire is the first book in the Charming Butte series. Lot's of fun, lots of humor. It's a small town, second chance story about a fireman and cowboy. On the first day of his new job, Asst Fire Chief, Meyer's car breaks down. He's rescued by a cowboy, Dex. On a horse. Great start, good story pacing with some delightful moments. The chemistry between the two just sizzles. Nosey, interfering town people and a nosey, interfering matchmaking mama.
It's a sweet tale that's character driven more so than plot driven. There are a lot of "oh that's familiar" moments, a bit of angst and miscommunication.
Fun, quick read. Can't wait for the next story.
I received an advanced copy from GRR and this is my review.
It's a sweet tale that's character driven more so than plot driven. There are a lot of "oh that's familiar" moments, a bit of angst and miscommunication.
Fun, quick read. Can't wait for the next story.
I received an advanced copy from GRR and this is my review.
March 11, 2025
Flirting With Fire is a heartfelt, low-angst second-chance romance. Meyer, the new Assistant Fire Chief, returns to his hometown to be near his ailing mother, only to have his car break down on day one. Enter Dex, his former high school teammate—now a rugged cowboy—who offers him a ride.
Dex once thought Meyer kept him off the football field due to homophobia, but the truth is far more complicated. As they’re repeatedly thrown together—thanks to Meyer’s mother and a conveniently available guest cottage—their old misunderstandings unravel, revealing mutual long-held crushes.
With great small-town charm, fun side characters (including rival coffee shop owners), and a tense rescue scene in an abandoned mine, this is a sweet and satisfying read.
Dex once thought Meyer kept him off the football field due to homophobia, but the truth is far more complicated. As they’re repeatedly thrown together—thanks to Meyer’s mother and a conveniently available guest cottage—their old misunderstandings unravel, revealing mutual long-held crushes.
With great small-town charm, fun side characters (including rival coffee shop owners), and a tense rescue scene in an abandoned mine, this is a sweet and satisfying read.
March 11, 2025
2.5-3⭐️
Giving this three star as it is an overall light read with a well established setting- Charming Butte has tons of character and I liked the towns people. The plot is a pretty flimsy enemies story- as there is really much a do about nothing. The reveal of the source of the conflict between Dex and Meyer was a bit underwhelming and took too long to come to light. I liked Dex and Meyer, but their personalities aren’t clearly defined and they often act like children - which isn’t my favorite. I did enjoy the colorful residents of Charming Butte and the sweet happy ending. Rounded up as the world building has potential for a good series.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
Giving this three star as it is an overall light read with a well established setting- Charming Butte has tons of character and I liked the towns people. The plot is a pretty flimsy enemies story- as there is really much a do about nothing. The reveal of the source of the conflict between Dex and Meyer was a bit underwhelming and took too long to come to light. I liked Dex and Meyer, but their personalities aren’t clearly defined and they often act like children - which isn’t my favorite. I did enjoy the colorful residents of Charming Butte and the sweet happy ending. Rounded up as the world building has potential for a good series.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
February 25, 2025
FLIRTING WITH FIRE is the first book in the Charming Butte series and we begin with Meyer moving back to town from Chicago to be closer to his mum. Dex is the one who never left town and has been there, not only for Lindy, but others too. Dex has a problem with Meyer that goes back to high school, but it isn't what he always thought.
This was a light and fast-paced story, moving swiftly from Meyer moving back to getting with Dex. There were plenty of lighthearted moments in here, as well as some steamy moments too. There is a town full of characters so I'll be happy to see what happens next.
Well-written, no angst, and plenty of laugh-out-loud moments, this is a book I can definitely recommend.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Feb 21, 2025
This was a light and fast-paced story, moving swiftly from Meyer moving back to getting with Dex. There were plenty of lighthearted moments in here, as well as some steamy moments too. There is a town full of characters so I'll be happy to see what happens next.
Well-written, no angst, and plenty of laugh-out-loud moments, this is a book I can definitely recommend.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Feb 21, 2025
March 1, 2025
How can you not love a book about a small town second chance romance between a cowboy (Dex) and man in a uniform (Meyer). It is a second chance romance as it seems that ten years ago Meyer broke Dec heart (he was Dex's high school crush), but suddenly he is back in their small town to help care for his mom. Of course he runs into Dex (I love how they reconnect over his car breaking down). Their interaction and bantering is clearly a mask for unresolved romantic feelings and off the charts chemistry. It was fun and sweet watching them learn to forgive and trust again as they made their way back together. I loved this book. I did receive an ARC and leave this honest review.
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