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Love’s First Response #2
Firemen, Flames, and Fettuccine
Grady Madison thinks his goofy clown suit is a huge turn off for the hot bear, Paul Sessa. But sometimes goofy is more appealing than suave.
When Grady Madison was forced out of the closet he thought his life would change for the worse, but he soon realizes he can date men without having to hide it from his co-workers. Attraction fires when he runs into Paul Sessa, filling him with fiery hot desire. Taking things slow is the plan, until they wind up with pants around their ankles before their first real date.
Paul Sessa wants a man of his own and not just another hookup. But that guy has to pass his daughter’s scrutiny, and she’s one smart cookie.
When Grady Madison was forced out of the closet he thought his life would change for the worse, but he soon realizes he can date men without having to hide it from his co-workers. Attraction fires when he runs into Paul Sessa, filling him with fiery hot desire. Taking things slow is the plan, until they wind up with pants around their ankles before their first real date.
Paul Sessa wants a man of his own and not just another hookup. But that guy has to pass his daughter’s scrutiny, and she’s one smart cookie.
56 pages, ebook
First published May 1, 2014
61 people are currently reading
106 people want to read
About the author
Sara York
153 books567 followersSara York, the author of Colorado Wild, twists words together to create worlds where characters make good and bad decisions that don't always work out so well. Romance and books have been a part of Sara York's life since learning to read. Sara York is a trans-male author writing gay romance. Coming out is the best decision Sara York has made. Live your life out loud. Sara York encourages you to be yourself.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
January 16, 2020
I have got to find another author with an initial of Y. This was just ridiculous. They meet at a fair where they have one quick conversation. Then they have sex and the next thing you know he's introducing him to his daughter and talking about moving in together. One more date and marriage gets thrown out. I was rolling my eyes so much I'm surprised I could still read.
January 19, 2015
I keep forgetting that York is the Queen of insta-love...
February 8, 2018
3.75 stars
Great second book for the "Love's First Responders". Paul and Grady fall right in sync with each other after meeting at the National Out Day.
Paul is new to the Everett area of Seattle where he is was an up and coming chef from Hollywood. Grady is a fireman who was recently outted by his fellow first responders that caused him to be attacked.
Paul and Grady are a great couple who want the same things out of life and they are happy with the new family they are creating.
Great second book for the "Love's First Responders". Paul and Grady fall right in sync with each other after meeting at the National Out Day.
Paul is new to the Everett area of Seattle where he is was an up and coming chef from Hollywood. Grady is a fireman who was recently outted by his fellow first responders that caused him to be attacked.
Paul and Grady are a great couple who want the same things out of life and they are happy with the new family they are creating.
July 12, 2025
I didn't read the first book in Samuel York's Love's First Response series, but I had no trouble enjoying Firemen, Flames, and Fettuccine as a standalone. The couple is clearly introduced in the first book but that just made me anxious to get their whole story. I plan to read Cops, Cakes, and Coffee as soon as I can fit it in.
The audio version of Firemen, Flames, and Fettuccine is nicely performed by Scott R. Smith.
The audio version of Firemen, Flames, and Fettuccine is nicely performed by Scott R. Smith.
May 4, 2020
I'm usually ok with insta-love, but this book took it way too far. I also had an issue with one of the MCs talking about his past relationships with a married (closeted) man - he didn't seem at all sorry that he was helping the guy cheat on his wife (and he knew there was a wife the whole time) and he talked about her like she was stupid for not knowing. That is such a asshole move I couldn't get past it - he took no responsibility for his behavior and then pretty much blames the victim. So not ok.
July 30, 2020
It's the sex
I like Paul and Grady, and had fun reading their story. But something was missing. It was all sexual attraction and reassuring each other about physical insecurities. When Grady thinks about why he "loves" Paul, he used the word "sweet". To me, that points to the fact they barely know each other and have little in common other than sexual attraction.
If a friend told me about a relationship they had like this, I'd tell them they'd better go on some dates and get to know each other better before getting engaged. That's the part of romance novels I like best--where the people get to know each other and find things they love about each other.
I like Paul and Grady, and had fun reading their story. But something was missing. It was all sexual attraction and reassuring each other about physical insecurities. When Grady thinks about why he "loves" Paul, he used the word "sweet". To me, that points to the fact they barely know each other and have little in common other than sexual attraction.
If a friend told me about a relationship they had like this, I'd tell them they'd better go on some dates and get to know each other better before getting engaged. That's the part of romance novels I like best--where the people get to know each other and find things they love about each other.
September 4, 2020
I’m reviewing the audio edition. This is the second book of the series. It is about Grady who was introduced in the first story. There are so many reasons he should not be in a relationship with Paul but the attraction is strong. These are short stories. Grady and Paul are pretty uncomplicated overall but there are a few things like Paul’s daughter to consider. This is a fun, short story. It is great since I wanted a quick story for when I’m driving. The narrator Scott Smith does a great job. I received a free copy and this is my honest review.
June 5, 2014
Okay, this was ridiculous but I somehow enjoyed it anyways. They went from meeting at a fair thing to getting married in maybe like a week. Corny and trite but easy reading and really kind of sweet.
February 17, 2020
Too Many Cooks Spoil the Fettuccine
Paul's restaurants were extremely popular. Most of it was his cooking, but it was also his personality that attracted well known actors to his bed, and A-List Hollywood celebrities to his restaurant. This started when he is a celebrity chef in California, but it continued when he moved to the not as slow pace as he thought, Everett.
But he didn't have a lot of choices when it came to moving to the small town. His daughter (her mom and her stepfather) moved to Everett. He loved his daughter more than anyting. Being with those other men meant nothing when compared to his daughter, his heart - he needed to be close to her.
When he met Grady something changed. For the first time he felt subconscious of his size. But he adored Grady's shyness around him. It was the beginning of something new and special. Grady couldn't understand why Paul wanted to be with him. The more Grady learned about Paul he loved, but still initially he felt really conflicted about the two of them.
The two of them were both so busy with their jobs they didn't have a great deal of time to talk. This only increased Grady's insecurities. Are they really destined to be together? A picture speaks a thousand words as does the artist.
Paul's restaurants were extremely popular. Most of it was his cooking, but it was also his personality that attracted well known actors to his bed, and A-List Hollywood celebrities to his restaurant. This started when he is a celebrity chef in California, but it continued when he moved to the not as slow pace as he thought, Everett.
But he didn't have a lot of choices when it came to moving to the small town. His daughter (her mom and her stepfather) moved to Everett. He loved his daughter more than anyting. Being with those other men meant nothing when compared to his daughter, his heart - he needed to be close to her.
When he met Grady something changed. For the first time he felt subconscious of his size. But he adored Grady's shyness around him. It was the beginning of something new and special. Grady couldn't understand why Paul wanted to be with him. The more Grady learned about Paul he loved, but still initially he felt really conflicted about the two of them.
The two of them were both so busy with their jobs they didn't have a great deal of time to talk. This only increased Grady's insecurities. Are they really destined to be together? A picture speaks a thousand words as does the artist.
November 9, 2021
Performance: 5 Stars
Story: 4 Stars
Firefighter Grady and restaurateur Paul feel a magnetic pull toward each other, and slot seamlessly into each other's lives almost immediately. Paul is a single dad, whose young daughter is thrilled he has a new boyfriend, and Grady is just as excited to join Paul's family with open arms.
This story is pure sweet and steamy insta-love escapism, with the only hint of angst being the men's insecurities - Grady's around Paul's famous past hookups, and Paul's around his less-than-ripped physique (which leads to some sweet body-positive sentiments between the two). Grady's coming out story begins in Book 1, where he's a secondary character, though his romance with Paul works as a standalone read/listen.
Narrator Scott R. Smith has such a pleasant voice and delivers another engaging performance here, and I look forward to listening to him more as this series continues. I received this free review copy audio book by request and have left this honest review voluntarily.
Story: 4 Stars
Firefighter Grady and restaurateur Paul feel a magnetic pull toward each other, and slot seamlessly into each other's lives almost immediately. Paul is a single dad, whose young daughter is thrilled he has a new boyfriend, and Grady is just as excited to join Paul's family with open arms.
This story is pure sweet and steamy insta-love escapism, with the only hint of angst being the men's insecurities - Grady's around Paul's famous past hookups, and Paul's around his less-than-ripped physique (which leads to some sweet body-positive sentiments between the two). Grady's coming out story begins in Book 1, where he's a secondary character, though his romance with Paul works as a standalone read/listen.
Narrator Scott R. Smith has such a pleasant voice and delivers another engaging performance here, and I look forward to listening to him more as this series continues. I received this free review copy audio book by request and have left this honest review voluntarily.
September 4, 2020
Cheerleader outfit and Pom Poms required
YAY Grady!!! I love him so very much and I'm ecstatic about his HEA!!! Paul and Grady were so perfect together, I really like that their relationship happened like a love at 1st sight. They both deserved happiness after Paul's horrible ex and Grady's attack. I enjoyed how the author touched on their insecurities and the way they worked through their issues. I was cheering Grady on when he stalked towards Paul and his ex in the parking lot. I felt like I should have worn a cheerleader outfit and pom poms for this book LOL! I couldn't stop cheering for Grady. Scott did a great job with the narration again, I felt like he was solid throughout this whole series.
YAY Grady!!! I love him so very much and I'm ecstatic about his HEA!!! Paul and Grady were so perfect together, I really like that their relationship happened like a love at 1st sight. They both deserved happiness after Paul's horrible ex and Grady's attack. I enjoyed how the author touched on their insecurities and the way they worked through their issues. I was cheering Grady on when he stalked towards Paul and his ex in the parking lot. I felt like I should have worn a cheerleader outfit and pom poms for this book LOL! I couldn't stop cheering for Grady. Scott did a great job with the narration again, I felt like he was solid throughout this whole series.
January 29, 2018
3.5 stars
I liked this story, but it seemed to move really fast and kind of had the same format as the first book. Guys have an embarrassing meet-cute, really like each other, something makes them doubt the relationship for a moment then all is good while they keep asking if they are moving too fast.
Don't get me wrong, I still liked the story, but I feel like a little more could have been done in regards to handling the daughter and her situation at school. I also wish that things deviated a bit more from the last book.
I'm still going to be checking out the next book and still believe that you should give this book and series a chance.
I liked this story, but it seemed to move really fast and kind of had the same format as the first book. Guys have an embarrassing meet-cute, really like each other, something makes them doubt the relationship for a moment then all is good while they keep asking if they are moving too fast.
Don't get me wrong, I still liked the story, but I feel like a little more could have been done in regards to handling the daughter and her situation at school. I also wish that things deviated a bit more from the last book.
I'm still going to be checking out the next book and still believe that you should give this book and series a chance.
March 7, 2018
An okay story not as good as the first one in the series. This was a fast moving romance for them and almost could be a love at first sight. Both characters had a self thought flaws, Paul was big ol hairy bear but though he was overweight where as Grady was just a fireman. I was disappointed there was no "fireman action" scenes in this.
Grady, dressed in a clown suit for a good cause for happy children. Being forced out for being gay and being attacked by fellow bad emergency workers. A new station and new work mates.
Paul was a chef and watched Grady from afar and couldn't help approach him. He had a 10 yr old daughter, Madeline which he shared custody with her mum.
Grady, dressed in a clown suit for a good cause for happy children. Being forced out for being gay and being attacked by fellow bad emergency workers. A new station and new work mates.
Paul was a chef and watched Grady from afar and couldn't help approach him. He had a 10 yr old daughter, Madeline which he shared custody with her mum.
May 21, 2020
This was my first read by Sara York, and yes I'd read her again (actually I definitely need to read book 1 to hear Drake and Adam's story). Was it insta-love? Sure...and was it inst-lust? Yes again. Did they move to fast? Probably for the real world...but this isn't real world is it? I could feel Grady's insecurity throughout the story but loved how he handled some of the issues that came along later in the story. Definitely a quick read, and enjoyable and steamy...would I want more? Absolutely...
November 22, 2021
Second in the series
Cute story about insta love between a fireman and a famous chef, add a 10 yr old child, and you have a perfect story.
This book is short but well written, hot and fun. HEA. Good narration from Scott Smith. Although, like usual, I sped up the audio, and I listened at 1.30 speed on audible.
Firemen, Flames, and Fettuccine
Love's First Response, Book 2
By: Sara York
Narrated by: Scott R. Smith
Series: Love's First Response Series, Book 2
Length: 2 hrs and 6 mins
❤❤❤❤ Overall
🎧🎧🎧🎧 Narration
📚📚📚📚 Story
Read at 1.30 speed on Audible
Cute story about insta love between a fireman and a famous chef, add a 10 yr old child, and you have a perfect story.
This book is short but well written, hot and fun. HEA. Good narration from Scott Smith. Although, like usual, I sped up the audio, and I listened at 1.30 speed on audible.
Firemen, Flames, and Fettuccine
Love's First Response, Book 2
By: Sara York
Narrated by: Scott R. Smith
Series: Love's First Response Series, Book 2
Length: 2 hrs and 6 mins
❤❤❤❤ Overall
🎧🎧🎧🎧 Narration
📚📚📚📚 Story
Read at 1.30 speed on Audible
August 22, 2020
4 stars
Cute story about Fireman Grady and Chef Paul. Navigating a relationship while trying to juggle Grady’s & Paul’s work schedules as well as Paul’s little girl, Madeleine’s isn’t easy but it’s worth it!!
*****
POV... third person
Standalone or series... book 2 in series but can be read as standalone
Hangover... no
Recommend... sure
Reread... sure
****
KU read
Grady Madison/ firefighter
Paul Sessa/ Chef and father
Cute story about Fireman Grady and Chef Paul. Navigating a relationship while trying to juggle Grady’s & Paul’s work schedules as well as Paul’s little girl, Madeleine’s isn’t easy but it’s worth it!!
*****
POV... third person
Standalone or series... book 2 in series but can be read as standalone
Hangover... no
Recommend... sure
Reread... sure
****
KU read
Grady Madison/ firefighter
Paul Sessa/ Chef and father
November 17, 2019
Grady and Paul
Grady was introduced in book one where he was bullied and save by Drake so they both came out at the same time. This time it was Gradys turn to find love and he did in Paul. Paul was a hot chef with a daughter. Paul's ex and her husband was a close family but Paul wanted a man of his own. Together they make a great family.
Grady was introduced in book one where he was bullied and save by Drake so they both came out at the same time. This time it was Gradys turn to find love and he did in Paul. Paul was a hot chef with a daughter. Paul's ex and her husband was a close family but Paul wanted a man of his own. Together they make a great family.
June 21, 2021
Another insta-love story in this series, but somehow I enjoyed this a bit more than book 1. It may be that the Grady and Paul seem like great guys, or the added cuteness factor that is Madleine, Paul’s 10-years-old daughter!
A short, sweet and spicy love story with a great performance by narrator Scott R. Smith!
A short, sweet and spicy love story with a great performance by narrator Scott R. Smith!
January 14, 2018
I am so glad we are getting Grady’s story and Paul is awesome. But then I do love bears plus he can cook. Wow! Great characters and a good read but I wish there was more. That probably is because I love Sara York’s work and want to stay in the communities and worlds she creates.
February 11, 2018
How about cooking somethin up with me????
Loved the book hated the ending it seemed it just ended nothing to tell it was a little disappointing. But other wise it was good. I liked that there was a Madeline in the story and that Grady found love with Paul.
Loved the book hated the ending it seemed it just ended nothing to tell it was a little disappointing. But other wise it was good. I liked that there was a Madeline in the story and that Grady found love with Paul.
April 6, 2018
Insta love plot or maybe because its a short story and SY is trying to have a full fleshed out story in less than 150 pages.
I like the idea of cuddily bears so I would have loved for this to be a longer story..
I like the idea of cuddily bears so I would have loved for this to be a longer story..
June 19, 2018
Loved
I loved following grady and Paul's journey it was such a beautifully written story
Following these amazing guys you could feel their connection from one page to the next i loved it
I wanted to hug grady and paul
I loved following grady and Paul's journey it was such a beautifully written story
Following these amazing guys you could feel their connection from one page to the next i loved it
I wanted to hug grady and paul
April 17, 2020
Good story!💜
I liked the storyline and the characters were great, but I feel like story wasn’t quite what I was expecting. I loved book 1 so it’s probably just me.
The narration was pretty good.
Sisters Spotlight 💜
I liked the storyline and the characters were great, but I feel like story wasn’t quite what I was expecting. I loved book 1 so it’s probably just me.
The narration was pretty good.
Sisters Spotlight 💜
March 31, 2023
It was great to get Grady's story and see him meet and fall for Paul. There was a bit of insecurity between the two of them, which did get slightly annoying after a while, but fortunately there was lots of communication between them. I loved Paul's daughter and family.
January 26, 2018
Short sweet and good
Short sweet and good. Lots of good tid bits, good morals to be learnt as well. Good story line, nice love
Short sweet and good. Lots of good tid bits, good morals to be learnt as well. Good story line, nice love
October 3, 2018
An excellent writer and story!
A Story about a gay fireman and a bisexual chef and the people in their lives. A daughter, an ex and all their friends and coworkers.
A Story about a gay fireman and a bisexual chef and the people in their lives. A daughter, an ex and all their friends and coworkers.
February 16, 2020
Loved it!
Another great book by Sara York. I absolutely loved Grady and Paul and I didn't want their story to end. Loved it!
Another great book by Sara York. I absolutely loved Grady and Paul and I didn't want their story to end. Loved it!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews