When You Saved Me (Discreet Cover)

Pebble Brook Falls #3

by Brianna Remus

When Deacon saved Charlie from a roaring fire, he’d never been so heavily impacted by someone. Which was why he decided to get as far away from her as possible.

He was successful, until she showed up on his doorstep seven years later…

Deacon Calhoun prefers to be alone. Military veteran and ex-firefighter, his demons lured him into darkness and that’s where he likes to stay.

It’s easier. Being numb. Not feeling. Keeping his walls built high with no chance of intrusion.

That is until Charlie Banks finds her way to Pebble Brook Falls to rent his cabin for the winter.

Charlie is the embodiment of sunshine. She’s everything Deacon tries to avoid until a burst pipe and a record breaking snow storm forces him to open his home to her. Where there’s only one bed. And he can’t escape her presence.

She’s the most beautiful thing he’s ever seen—inside and out. And it pisses him off.

He refuses to let his walls fall until her light finally warms his icy exterior.

But as soon as he lets her into his heart, he knows it was a mistake.

Because everyone he loves always gets hurt. And he doesn’t know if he is too late to save her this time.

When You Saved Me is book three in the Pebble Brook Falls series. It is a complete stand-alone novel with a guaranteed happily ever after.

Genres: Military Fiction, Romance, Forced Proximity

356 pages, Paperback

Published November 15, 2024

About the author

Brianna Remus is a Florida-based author who lives with her husband, three pups, and terrorizing cat. She started her writing journey in 2016 to ward off the woes of graduate school. The light-hearted hobby quickly turned into a passion filled dream that consistently distracts her from the real world.
​
When Brianna isn't working as a psychology resident or writing books, you can find her getting lost in the worlds created by others (through writing and movies), spending a day at the ocean, or taking a walk in the forest. She loves to spend her days outdoors surrounded by the beauties of nature.
​
A true Tolkien nerd, she also spends a lot of her time immersed in Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit, as well as praying that Amazon doesn't completely fuck up the new LOTR series.

Reviews

[Paige · Rating 3 out of 5]

3 stars is generous. I feel bad leaving a less than stellar review on an ARC but I really just didn’t like this book. I felt the characters were really annoying and everything just felt very surface level for the fact that the book covered shared trauma. This book was really hard for me to get through. Everything felt just very cliche and not in a good way. The grumpy x sunshine trope was way over the top — the characters weren’t naturally that way — it felt really forced by the author. The MMC went from “no we can’t, I’ll just corrupt you with my grumpiness” one chapter to calling her his woman and giving her nicknames the next. And the FMC said from the moment he saved her, that she knew he was hers. I was just like “what?” the whole time. Also *spoiler* who has to be saved from a fire TWICE in their life by the same man 🤦🏻‍♀️

[Taylor Wilson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Of all the books I’ve read of Brianna’s, When You Saved me is one of the best. It is so well written and I love how descriptive everything is. What a wonderful and an emotional story with a deep connection between the two main characters, Deacon and Charlie. I love Charlie’s positive outlook on life, how she helps him heal and they come together is so beautiful.

Deacon is truly Charlie’s grumpy to her sunshine and they go so well together. The puzzle making, hot chocolate and snow ball fight were some of my favorite moments. The spicy was ✨giving✨ I also love the snippets of Sarah and Ranger and Willow and Johnny.

“She was everything I never knew I wanted. Never knew I needed.”

“He was the spark that lit my soul up with bright beautiful light and I never wanted to be without him.”

“Charlie Banks had become the candlelight in my darkness, warding off the shadows of my past with just a simple smile.”

I cannot recommend the Pebble Brook Falls series more, each story is so special in their own way! 🥰

[Annie Vance · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sunshine on a Cloudy Day

I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review.

🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

This third installment in the Pebble Brook Falls series brings a beautiful second-chance romance between two vividly crafted characters and a sassy feline who, quite frankly, stole the show more than once.

Deacon (MMC) – Brianna has done a remarkable job portraying Deacon’s inner battle with trauma, love, and loss. Watching him struggle with his self-worth was both frustrating and inspiring. You can feel the depth of his pain, and it’s portrayed so sensitively that you can’t help but root for his healing.

Charlie (FMC) – She’s the kind of character who radiates strength and optimism. A "pull yourself up by your bootstraps" girl with a fierce, unapologetic ownership of her sexuality, Charlie is a breath of fresh air. She has that blend of vulnerability and resilience that draws you in, making her the perfect foil for Deacon’s more tortured soul.

Casper (Feline Main Character) – Yes, you read that right! Casper, with his feline sass and affection, provides both comic relief and warmth, bridging the gap between Charlie and Deacon in a way that only a beloved pet can.

Together, these three make for a brilliantly woven story of redemption, where Deacon and Charlie reconnect after he saved her life seven years earlier. As Deacon grapples with his self-worth, Charlie steps in to remind him why he deserves all the happiness in the world. This one’s a must-read for fans of second-chance romances!

[Kate · Rating 4 out of 5]

Such a good book! I lived reading about deacon & Charlie.

A cute story!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[Dolores Evans]

Brianna Remus always finds a way to break my heart with this series, then puts it back together again. It was filled with so many tear jerker moments, moments that melted my heart, and others that had me sweating from the angst and spice. I think this may be my favorite from the series. I highly recommend this beautifully written book and author.

[Casey · Rating 4 out of 5]

When You Saved Me is a cozy heart warming read, but also there was a balance of drama and spice. There were parts in the book that made me gigil* Charlie the FMC was so refreshing to read. She was a woman that knew what she wanted. And Deacon was the perfect mix of grumpy and golden retriever vibes. Great start for winter reading ❄️

* Tagalog word to describe the feeling of being overwhelmed by cuteness

[Jasmine · Rating 5 out of 5]

*I received an advanced copy of this story by the author for my review*

My heart! I can’t take it! What a story! I absolutely love Charlie and Deacon. Their story makes me truly believe in love. Brianna Remus does an amazing job creating such a beautiful story that deals with past traumas, tragedies, forgiveness and love. I knew the story would have a happy ending and that’s what I always hope for because love always wins. At least I like to think it does😭❤️

[Danielle Hartman · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fun cute read. It's a connected series but can be read as a standalone which I did no issues. I'll probably read the others! Good read for winter weather too given the time of year and events. Story flowed well and able to read it quickly and never got bored.

Tropes:
forced proximity
2nd chance
1 bed
grumpy/sunshine

[Ashley Schounard · Rating 4 out of 5]

Received as an ARC for a review. 4.5⭐️
Releases 11/15/2024

This is my first book by Brianna Remus and I WILL be reading the first two books in the series.

I absolutely loved the fated aspect of Deacon and Charlie being together. Even if you don’t believe in fate, their story is still so beautiful and not your typical meet cute!

They first meet when Deacon quite literally saves Charlie from an apartment fire. The story then picks up 7 years later and we find they both end up in the same small town one state away (fate??) Deacon has some troubles from his past and doesn’t feel he is good enough to be with Charlie so retreats and pushes her away. Enter Charlie and a snowstorm!

I love how the story played out, even Deacon and Casper were so cute!!

Side characters were not huge players in the book but when they did show up, they were memorable! Cannot wait to go back and read their books!

Absolutely recommend! Cannot wait to read more from Brianna!

ARC//Ebook// purchased paperback as preorder

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just wow!!!! Charlie and Deacon. Are just perfection on paper!! A love so strong with forgiveness and healing. I absurdity love Charlie's character she just so warming ut yet little spicy. She helps Deacon so much!
Deacon loves her just so hard! There is so much depth in one man! The way be wants to protect her and help her put her first. It's just so beautiful! The way they are so playful together and warm.

[cad · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶🌶

Brianna Remus delivers a heartfelt and emotional story in When You Saved Me. Deacon and Charlie’s grumpy/sunshine dynamic is everything, with themes of healing, redemption, and learning to love yourself woven beautifully throughout. Deacon’s broody protectiveness paired with Charlie’s warmth and persistence creates a connection that feels raw and genuine.

Set in the snowy charm of Pebble Brook Falls, this story has it all: cozy winter vibes, playful banter, tender moments, and just the right amount of spice. Plus, Casper the cat is a scene-stealer!

Tropes:
🌥☀️ Grumpy/sunshine
🏠❄️ Forced proximity
🏡💕 Small-town romance
🛏️🔥 One bed

This book is perfect for readers who love emotional depth, witty banter, and stories about love and healing. Highly recommend!

[Orinta Nydere · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you’re craving a romance packed with sizzling chemistry, emotional depth, and characters that feel like real people you’d want to grab coffee with (or maybe a stiff drink—Declan, I’m looking at you), this is the book you need in your life!

The story introduces us to Aubrey, a fiercely independent woman with a tender heart hidden beneath layers of self-protection. She’s been burned before and isn’t eager to take risks—especially with her heart. But then enters Declan, who’s the perfect mix of brooding intensity and unexpected vulnerability. Declan isn’t your typical romance book boyfriend, he’s grappling with his own demons and has a mysterious edge that keeps you wanting to peel back his layers....and his clothes ;)

Their chemistry? Off the charts! The banter between them is sharp, witty, and filled with that delicious tension that keeps you hooked. But it’s not just about the heat—there’s a tenderness to their connection that makes you believe they truly see and understand each other.

The way Aubrey’s strength balances Declan’s vulnerabilities creates a dynamic that feels raw and authentic. They have moments of playfulness that will make you smile and steamy encounters that will have you fanning yourself, but the best part is the emotional depth. You can feel the weight of their pasts in their every interaction, and watching them break down each other’s walls is as satisfying as it is heartwarming.

This isn’t just a story about falling in love—it’s about healing, trust, and finding the courage to let someone in. To put it plainly, When You Saved Me is a beautifully crafted romance with unforgettable characters and chemistry that practically burns through the pages (all the puns intended!). Add it to your bookshelf—you won’t regret it! ❤️

[Malin · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a cute, cosy and wholesome read. Although it started very intense, the book itself made me feel like I was out in a warm cabin, next to a lake, covered in a blanket drinking hot chocolate. I find it amazing how the author managed to really show how the tragedy that happened to Charlie and Deacon in the beginning really had two different sides of a story, with two completely different outcomes. One turned out to be this happy rae of sunshine, while the other a closed off grump. But they fit each other so well, and the connection between them was so sweet.

Such a lovely little read for autumn / winter ❄️

Thank you so much Brianna Remus for giving me a copy copy of this arc, I’m so very grateful!!

Ps: do read the trigger warnings for this, as the beginning might be triggering for some 🤍

Favourite quotes and scenes:
❄️ “My mother always taught me that happiness was a smile away”

❄️ “Art wasn’t just in the finery of paints or sculpture. It was in one’s ability to make something new out of what already existed. To breathe life in an undiscovered way.”

❄️ “Charlie’s presence this morning was like a ray of sunshine beaming through the dark clouds”

❄️ “I live for the people who lost their lives.”

❄️ “The heavy thump of his heartbeat was soothing to me.” - my favourite thing, to lie on my boyfriend’s chest and listen to his heartbeat!

❄️ “If we’re always looking at the things we don’t have, we tend to miss the most beautiful parts of our lives.”

❄️ “Forever’s a pretty long time. You sure you’re up for that?” … “Forever won’t be long enough,”

[Bailey Peloquin(Baileys.fully.booked) · Rating 4 out of 5]

When You Saved Me is much more than a romance novel. It encompasses fear, relationships, guilt, forgiveness, hope and love. A story that tugs at your heartstrings and gives you ear to ear smiles. Such a beautiful story that made me giggle and bring tears to my eyes.

What are the chances you meet the man who saved you, 7 years later? Twist of fate or devine intervention?

FMC, Charlie Banks decides to rent a cabin in Pebble Brook Falls for the winter. Little does she know that the cabin she is renting belongs to the grumpy man who saved her. MMC, Deacon Calhoun, a Military veteran and ex-firefighter, struggles with past tragedies. Deacon opens his rental house to Charlie only to have to share a bed, get snowed in and learn to care for one another. Deacon is a savior; from climbing trees (can’t spoil it) to saving Charlie’s life for a second time (can’t spoil this either).

Charlie is a terrible cook. She can’t make chocolate muffins or pancakes but she can something sweet…

Learning how to communicate, forgive, and heal through traumatic events, built their relationship and love with these two characters.

❄️ Forced proximity
❄️ Grumpy x Sunshine
❄️ Firefighter MMC
❄️ Spice
❄️ Fireplace snuggles
❄️ Adorable cat

[Christy · Rating 1 out of 5]

Thank you to Brianna Remus for providing an ARC for review!

When You Saved Me follows Deacon and Charlie. Seven years prior to the beginning of the book, Deacon was a firefighter and saved Charlie from a fire in her apartment building. Fast forward seven years, Charlie moves to Pebble Brook Falls and finds that her new landlord is the man who saved her life.

Unfortunately, I DNF'd this book at 31%. I couldn't get over the fact that the two were pining for each other for seven years when they didn't even really meet. Of course saving someone's life and being saved by someone would have an impact. I can understand that they wouldn't forget each other but the pining was too much. I've never been in a fire but I can't imagine that I would care about the eye color of the man that was saving me. From this first 31%, there was no indication that the two of them spoke to each other as Charlie passes out and Deacon leaves. Because of this non-interaction, I felt like the feelings were very surface level. I didn't want to continue to read their story.

[Bek ✨ · Rating 4 out of 5]

"When You Saved Me" is a poignant and captivating love story that will tug at your heartstrings. Brianna Remus masterfully crafts a narrative that explores the complexities of forgiveness, healing, and the transformative power of love.

With well-developed characters and a deeply emotional plot, this book drew me in and refused to let go. The author's sensitive handling of difficult themes creates a safe space for readers to connect with the characters.

A beautiful, heartfelt read that will leave you invested in the characters' journey.

[Morgan West · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book had me hooked instantly! Our FMC, Charlie, got stuck in a fire and who better than to save her from a burning building than our grumpy, firefighter, ex military man, Deacon? These two had undeniable chemistry and their tension was insane. This book is giving cabin in the winter, cozy, wholesome vibes with spice 🔥

snowed in, forced proximity, grumpyxsunshine, cat that acts like a dog 🤣

this book is a cheesy romance in the best way possible so please go in with that expectation 🤍 I finished this in one day, it’s binge worthy!!

[Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

Charlie and Deacon, OMG 😍! What a beautiful love story they have. Pebble Brook Falls is a dream town for sure, one I want to learn more and more about (please say there will be more).

This series is so beautifully written and I’m so lucky to be a part of your ARC team!

[Jessa · Rating 4 out of 5]

When You Saved Me
Brianna Remus
358 Pgs

"Sweet and tender wasn't my typical experience of anything in life. But that's what Charlie was. Feisty like the burn of bourbon, but sweet like smooth honey and tender like a gentle spring wind. She was everything I never knew I wanted. Never knew I needed. Because I'd denied myself even though I'd felt that string connecting us from the moment I laid my eyes on her. "

Sometimes, people are meant to be in your life, and trying to avoid that leads to the universe bringing those people to you. When You Saved Me by Brianna Remus wrote us a story about trying to fight fate and losing. Charlie Banks owed her life to Deacon Calhoun, the firefighter having saved her when a fire tore through her apartment. She felt a connection the moment her eyes locked with his amid the smokey and hot atmosphere, but nothing came of it as she never saw him again. Until she did, as the landlord of the small cabin she would rent in the small town of Pebble Brook Falls for the winter. Despite his trying to stay apart from Charlie, Deacon realizes how difficult it is to fight fate.

"But there was a wildness in Deacon too. Raw. Unbridled. Secretive."

Deacon was a character plagued with thoughts of inadequacy and an inability to keep the people around him safe. Try as he might, the feelings crept through, and Deacon was convinced that everyone around him would get hurt because of his inadequacies. It was touching to read Charlie's refusal to give up on them and Deacon, using her sunshiney personality and refusal to let the tragedies in her life bring her down to bring light and life to Deacon's corner of Pebble Brook Falls. She was exactly what he needed, and the forced proximity and banter included in this romance were perfect. I loved Charlie's personality and how she was unapologetically herself, even when Deacon tried to push back. This is the third book in the series, but even though I haven't read the first two, I could read and enjoy every page of When You Saved Me. Brianna Remus wrote a remarkable story with robust and intriguing characters and a plot line that moved smoothly and quickly from the first page to the last. I love a good forced proximity romance, and being snowed in led to some very touching moments and SPICE! Plus, who can resist a strong, hot fireman saving a cat from a tree? I know I can't. Charlie's Casper was an adorable addition to the story; reading his acceptance of Deacon was so cute!

Thank you, Brianna Remus, for this book. I loved this forced proximity romance and the sweet reconnection of Deacon and Charlie. Anyone looking for a touching, emotional, small-town romance full of snow, Christmas, and witty banter must pick this up immediately! A great read for the holiday season!

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

🌟Small Town
🌟Sunshine/Grumpy
🌟Ex-Firefighter
🌟Trauma
🌟Forced Proximity
🌟One Bed
🌟Cozy Vibes
🌟Dual POV
🌟🌶️🌶️🌶️

I absolutely adored *When You Saved Me*. Deacon and Charlie’s love story felt nothing short of magical—sweet, deeply felt, and definitely well-earned.

Charlie is pure sunshine and optimism. Even after facing heartbreaking experiences, she radiates such a fierce joy for life. She’s playful, kind, and honestly, like a breath of fresh air to everyone around her. What struck me most about her is her courage in facing her own traumas head-on. She doesn’t shy away from the pain but steps right into it, showing such resilience. I couldn’t help but admire her for it.

Deacon, on the other hand, feels like a storm cloud—a man burdened by his past, trying to keep his pain buried, even though it’s always hovering just beneath the surface. His losses are profound, and they’ve made him wary of joy and happiness. He’s afraid to let himself love, because for him, the risk is too high. I felt so much compassion for him; he’s such a beautifully complicated character.

Under incredible duress, the connection between Deacon and Charlie fused instantly, and years later, it’s still as strong as ever. I loved how Charlie never backed down when it came to the tough conversations with Deacon. She knows just how far to push him, balancing her gentle persistence with empathy, which is exactly what he needs to confront his fears. Watching him work through those fears was both inspiring and heart-wrenching—there were moments he’d push forward, and others he’d retreat, but it all felt so real.

And the chemistry? Wow! The heat between them is electric, and I loved that Charlie has zero hesitation asking for what she wants. Deacon is absolutely smoldering! He is captivated by her, always aims to please, and making her happy gives him life. Together, they’re nothing short of perfect.

*When You Saved Me* is a tender, heartwarming story with a beautifully satisfying HEA and even the cutest little cat, Casper, adding a touch of sweetness. This book left me smiling and wanting more. Highly recommend!

Thanks to the author, Brianna, for the gifted eARC

[Lisa Cannaday · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
***I received a copy of this as an ARC for my honest review ***

- Grumpy/sunshine - He saves her life meet-cute - Small town - Forced proximity - Artist FMC - Ex firefighter/veteran MMC -

When You Saved Me is a beautiful story of letting others into your life, acceptance of past traumas, and self-forgiveness. The gorgeous snowy cabin setting and emotional backstories of the main characters pull you right in from the beginning. The relationship between the MCs is fast moving even with our MMCs reluctance to open up fully and let our FMC into his heart. With everything they go through, the HEA they get feels well deserved and earned by both Charlie and Deacon. And I can't forget to make mention of Casper, who will be your new favorite fluffy white cat of a side character!

After being saved from an apartment fire by a man with the most gorgeous green eyes she'd ever seen Charlie still lives her life with the brightest outlook in honor if those who didn't make it that day. Seven years later, she decides to get away from the city life and moves to a small town in GA only to find out her new landlord is that very same man from so long ago, Deacon.

Deacon has mostly isolated himself after witnessing a number of tragedies and experiencing multiple losses both in and out of his military career that he has blamed himself for, including the time he hesitated in a fire rescue of a beautiful red-heaired young woman resulting in them being pinned down by burning debris. In the seven years since that fire, he has yet to get that woman out of his head. Then she winds up on his doorstep as his new tenant of the cabin on his property and he can't stay away from her.

When they are snowed in together shortly after Charlie moves in, will Deacon find a way to open up and let her in fully?

***This is the third book in the Pebble Brook Falls series. While it can be read as a standalone, you are going to find yourself wanting to go back and read more of Brianna's works because it was so good.***

[The Reawakened Reader · Rating 4 out of 5]

When You Saved Me is the third novel in the Pebble Brook Falls series, but can absolutely be read as a standalone story. I could not put this one down and literally spent the day on the couch ignoring everything else I needed to be doing!

MMC Deacon is an ex military, ex firefighter clearly suffering from PTSD. No one could blame him for being an absolute grump following the things he’s seen and experienced. Following a devastating fire in Charlotte, North Carolina, he’s moved to a small mountain town in Georgia. Offering up a tiny cabin for rent on his 54 acre property for rent, he’s startled to find his new tenant is none other than the beautiful red head he saved in that fire seven years prior!

FMC Charlie is all sunshine. She’s an established artist searching for peace and quiet away from the hustle and bustle of the city. The moment she meets her new landlord, she recognises those green eyes instantly! The man who saved her life, bonded to him forever by the burn scar down her torso.

Their attraction is reignited instantly, but Deacon has so many walls built around him, and so much guilt for the injuries Charlie sustained during the fire, he struggles to let her in or admit his feelings. Charlie is up for the challenge though, and can’t help but notice the way he looks at her. A burst water pipe at Charlie’s cabin, and a snow storm force them to share Deacon’s cabin together for the foreseeable future. Forced proximity and only one bed…we all know where this leads, and in their bubble Deacon is finally starting to open up. Smile and laugh even, until a further event triggers his PTSD and shuts him down again.

What follows is a super emotional ride and my heart was pounding so hard and fast in my chest. Charlie and Deacon were meant to be together, forever tied to each other by an invisible string.

Special mention to Jasper the cat who recognises Deacon is a good guy, giving Deacon lots of furry attention even if he doesn’t want it. Cats know.

I absolutely loved this story! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫

[Chrissy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book Review (ARC)❄️🐈🤍:

When you Saved me by Brianna Remus

Ratings: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Pebble Brook Fall Book 3
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️.5

Topics throughout the book are:
❄️ small town
🐈 Grumpy x Sunshine
🤍 forced proximity
❄️ ex firefighter hero
🐈 Dual POV (Past & Present)
🤍 forced proximity

Summary❄️🐈🤍:
“That was the thing about haunting memories thought. They created barriers that stopped us from getting to what we needed most. And when it came to haunting memories…. I had more than most.” Charlie Bank decides it's time to leave the fast-paced city life of Charlotte, North Carolina, and spend the winter at Badger Creek Cabin in the quiet town of Pebble Brook Falls, Georgia. What she doesn't expect is that her new landlord is Deacon Calhoun, the man who saved her from a raging fire seven years ago. Deacon, a former veteran and firefighter, moved to this small town to escape his troubled past and live in solitude. Having experienced the darkest sides of life, he’s built walls around himself, convinced that opening up will only lead to pain. As Charlie settles into her new life, will Deacon allow himself to get close, or will his fears drive them apart, leaving him too late to protect her once again? Read to discover what happens!

I loved this book just as much as the first! Her writing is nothing short of spectacular; it pulls you in so deeply that you forget about everything else around you. The grumpy sunshine dynamic in this story is pure magic—adding just the right amount of spice and charm. The emotional connection you feel for both the MMC and FMC tugs at your heartstrings and finding yourself rooting for their happiness. If you’re looking for a cozy, feel-good read to get you through the winter months, this book is an absolute must-read. It’ll lift your spirits, and I promise you won’t want to put it down! Highly recommend!

Many thanks to Brianna for providing the me another opportunity to receive an ARC in exchange for my honest review!

#grumpysunshineromance #ForcedProximity #FoundFamily #spicyromancebook #SmallTownRomance

[JanFromNJ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Deacon Calhoun and Charlie Banks meet under the worst circumstances. He’s the firefighter who saves her life. She felt a connection and believed he did too. But Deacon disappears while Charlie is still in the hospital recovering from her injuries.

Fast forward a few years …… and they wind up face to face again in the small town of Pebble Brook Falls where - SURPRISE - Deacon is her landlord. And he promptly slams his door in her face. Huh? Charlie is stunned.

So begins an emotional, grumpy-sunshine, small town, steamy romance between an ex-firefighter (Charlie nicknames him “Grump”) and a super talented artist (Deacon’s ray of sunshine).

A snowstorm strands them together and it’s truly the best thing that can happen as it pretty much forces Deacon to start to really deal with his guilt over Charlie’s injuries from the fire, the darkness from his time in the military, and his true feelings for the woman he’s thought about for years.

𝘋𝘦𝘢𝘤𝘰𝘯 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘰𝘯 𝘐 𝘤𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥 𝘣𝘦 𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴 𝘰𝘧 𝘮𝘺𝘴𝘦𝘭𝘧 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘨𝘰𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘢𝘸𝘢𝘺 𝘰𝘯𝘤𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘯𝘰𝘸 𝘮𝘦𝘭𝘵𝘦𝘥, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘸𝘦 𝘸𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘤𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘰 𝘧𝘢𝘤𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘭𝘪𝘵𝘺 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘤𝘰𝘯𝘯𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘸𝘦 𝘩𝘢𝘥 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘳𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘰 𝘴𝘤𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘮𝘦.

Oh and then there’s a truly adorable cat named Casper who wraps Deacon around his little finger. Or should I say paw.

This is a deeply moving story. Deacon and Charlie’s heart-tugging romance will both break your heart at times and then put it back together. And then there are some scorching steamy scenes too!

Deacon’s torment runs deep. You’ll feel it every time he struggles to open up to Charlie. But Charlie’s determination to help him thru it all is exactly what he needs.

𝘚𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘐 𝘯𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘬𝘯𝘦𝘸 𝘐 𝘸𝘢𝘯𝘵𝘦𝘥. 𝘕𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘬𝘯𝘦𝘸 𝘐 𝘯𝘦𝘦𝘥𝘦𝘥. 𝘉𝘦𝘤𝘢𝘶𝘴𝘦 𝘐’𝘥 𝘥𝘦𝘯𝘪𝘦𝘥 𝘮𝘺𝘴𝘦𝘭𝘧 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩 𝘐’𝘥 𝘧𝘦𝘭𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘤𝘰𝘯𝘯𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘶𝘴 𝘧𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘮𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘯𝘵 𝘐 𝘭𝘢𝘪𝘥 𝘮𝘺 𝘦𝘺𝘦𝘴 𝘰𝘯 𝘩𝘦𝘳.

I couldn’t love these two more. They truly wind up saving each other.

[Lisa Conant · Rating 5 out of 5]

Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ out of 5
Spice: 🌶🌶🌶 out of 5

🫂Forced Proximity
❤️‍🩹Emotional Hurt/Healing MMC's
⛄️Snowed-In
👿Grumpy x Sunshine
💪Broody Protective Hero
👨‍🚒Ex-Firefighter/Veteran x Artist

✨️Blurb
Deacon Calhoun prefers to be alone. Military veteran and ex-firefighter, his demons lured him into darkness and that’s where he likes to stay.

It’s easier. Being numb. Not feeling. Keeping his walls built high with no chance of intrusion.

That is until Charlie Banks finds her way to Pebble Brook Falls to rent his cabin for the winter.

Charlie is the embodiment of sunshine. She’s everything Deacon tries to avoid until a burst pipe and a record breaking snow storm forces him to open his home to her. Where there’s only one bed. And he can’t escape her presence.

✨️Review
Just a wonderfully spellbinding story of forgiveness, finding love, and healing. With great tenderness, we see how our two MMC's are seemingly bound to one another years following Deacon's heroic saving of Charlie from a fire.

Serendipity finds them placed in one another's path, and I loved their dynamic. Her feisty yet soft demeanor was just what the wounded heart of Deacon needed. He blames himself for so much and his biggest fear is to hurt her or not protect her as he feels he should've. But letting go of his regrets and his anger at himself is what Charlie helps him do.

Seeing how they bond and care for another in cozy moments was so heart melting. At times he pulls away and I liked seeing that because often times guilt is very hard to let go of for those that have witnessed such tragedies as Deacon has.

But his love is never in question. They are an end game couple, no doubt. I was smitten with them, their playfulness, the rawness of their shared experience, and how they ultimately fight for their love. A beautiful story with slightly cozy feels and all heart!

[Alisa Beatty · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an ARC copy in exchange for my honest review.

When You Saved Me by Brianna Remus is a standalone novel in the Pebble Brook Falls series. It kicks off with Deacon, a hero who bravely rescues Charlie from a devastating apartment fire. To escape the emotional whirlwind that Charlie represents, he decides to put as much distance between them as possible. But life has a funny way of intervening, and just a few years later, Charlie unexpectedly appears at his doorstep.

As someone new to Brianna Remus's work, I found this story to be an engaging read. It's a tale of opposites attracting, wrapped in the themes of forced proximity and second chances at love. Both characters bear deep scars, both physically and emotionally, rooted in shared trauma and their haunting pasts. Their unexpected reunion compels them to face these wounds, ultimately leading to a happy ending.

While I enjoyed the book overall, I felt the romantic connection between Deacon and Charlie was unsatisfying. The romance, although spicy, didn't feel entirely genuine to me. It seemed like they were drawn together by their shared traumas rather than a deep, authentic love. Their dynamic resembled anxious and avoidant attachment styles. Additionally, I didn’t see much healing or character growth for either of them throughout the story, just aha moments.

On the plus side, the narrative brings an important lesson: don’t judge a book by its cover. It serves as a reminder that just because someone looks happy on the outside, they might hide some deep-seated issues.

Overall, "When You Saved Me" is an enjoyable read, but I wish the character growth had been more fleshed out. I’d give it a solid 4 out of 5 stars!

[Manda Jean · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Ｉｔ ｗａｓｎ’ｔ ｙｏｕｒ ｆａｕｌｔ．”

I love a good invisible string/ divine intervention trope and this one hits all the marks. This is book 3 of the Pebble Brook Falls series and can be read as a standalone.

Deacon is a grumpy ex military and ex fireman that moved to Pebble Brook a few years prior. He is very introverted and his two friends basically pushed themselves on him, but he is very loyal to them. Charlie is the absolute opposite of Deacon she is sunshine in a bottle, extroverted and sees the world as a glass half full.

Deacon and Charlie’s story actually started seven years prior when he rescued her from her apartment fire. That situation caused them both to see the world differently he sees danger in every corner she sees a second chance at living. He wants to keep his distance but fate is not having it after one thing after another goes haywire they are snowed in together. This forces them to come to terms over what happened seven years ago and push the boundaries, especially since Deacon’s default is to run and shut down.

Loved these two as much as I loved Ranger and Sarah, I just need to read Willow and Johnny.

~~What to Expect~~
❄️Small Town
❄️Forced Proximity
❄️Hero MMC (Ex Military and Firefighter)
❄️One Bed
❄️Grumpy X Sunshine
❄️Invisible String / Divine Intervention

~~Quote~~
🔥You could either be grumpy that it’s pouring down on you or you can dance in the rain. And I love to dance.
🔥The thread that bonded Deacon and I together from the start. The calling of our should, forging us as one.
🔥If we’re always looking at the things we don’t have, we tend to miss the most beautiful parts of our lives.

[Kylie Loves Reading · Rating 5 out of 5]

When you're trapped inside your burning building, praying to God that he can hear you, that anyone can hear you, you're minutes from your life ending in the most horrific way, you open your eyes for what you think is the last time and all you see is green, green eyes staring back at you, the greenest eyes you will ever see. You know from that moment on, that colour will forever be imprinted on your soul.
Deacon is a military veteran and ex-fire fighter, the night he saved Charlie but then almost didn't has impacted him since that fateful night, he's walked away from city life, preferring to hide away in his cabin in Pebble Brook Falls. He has a few friends, life is quiet, just the way he likes it, Until a knock at his door signals his new tenant arriving, a tenant who will be renting his other cabin on his property.

Charlie has had enough of the big city, no longer taking life for granted, needing to be out of her loving but always worrying parents' eyes, Charlie heads off to the small-town life she's always dreamed off... Pebble Brook Falls is calling her name. Knocking on the door of her new landlord's cabin, she is completely and utterly shocked to see green, those green eyes staring back her, the man who saved her life and has never been able to thank or stop thinking about...7 years she has hung onto the image of those eyes.....he slams the door in her face!

This read is raw and filled with emotions, its's about forgiveness, healing, guilt, knowing you are worthy of love and accepting that love. Charlies' determination to get through to Deacon is unwavering, everyone he loves gets hurt, as much as he tries not to, loving Charlie is so easy ♥️♥️

I adored this book, completely loved it. I love all things about Pebble Brook Falls, small town life, catching up with past character's, Deacon and Charlie's love was magic. Kismet even..♥️♥️

Thank You Brianna, I can't wait for what you have next ... ARC was so appreciated !

[Brie | bookedbybrie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such a cute, cozy read for this time of year. Perfect with the cold weather, snuggle up by the fire, while listening to it crackling and maybe the snow fall from outside.

Although this book started out very intense, with an apartment building on fire and thoughts of impending death, the rest of the book’s setting was like a calm, warm cabin feel of cozy. Seven years later, Charlie Banks, FMC, uprooted her life away from the busy, hustle and bustle of the city of Charlotte, to relocate somewhere small, as in the small town of Pebble Brooks Falls. What she doesn’t expect to find waiting for her, is her new landlord, Deacon Calhoun, MMC, ex-firefighter and a Military veteran who also struggles with trauma himself and who also happens to be the same green eyed man who saved her from the fire back in Charlotte, all those 7 years ago.

It starts out as him wanting nothing to do with her, even though she is set on proving him wrong, with two different stories of what happened. Then leading to a busted pipe in her cabin, and then a snow storm, leaving them to hunker down together in his lodge, alone. What one hot night leads to an even hotter morning, which continues on over a couple weeks. Deacon found his sunshine through his dark grumpy gray days.

This story was more than just a romance novel, but something of learning how to communicate, forgive, and heal through the traumatic life events, learning how to build off their relationship and truly learn to love one another through the dark and the light.


Small-Town
Grumpy/Sunshine
Forced Proximity
Second Chance
EX-Firefighter/Protective MMC
Emotional Trauma FMC
One Adorable Cat
One Bed
He Saves Her
Cozy Cabin Vibes

[Christy M · Rating 4 out of 5]

Deacon is an ex firefighter and military veteran that saved the carefree and always positive Charlie from an awful housefire seven years ago. He was determined to be on his own because of all the horrors he has faced in life. But that all changed when Charlie ends up renting a cabin from him in the same town. Has fate brought them together? Will he open up to her and heal his old wounds?

So I got an arc copy of this book and as soon as I started reading it, I was pulled in. I laughed, I smiled, I cried throughout this whole story. The characters are equally likeable and frustrating at times. I would say classic overthinkers. I got frustrated with them saying just talk to each other but then I realize that I’ve had relationships like that and I’ve been that way as well, so it was pretty relatable. If you’re looking for a book that has you giggling and kicking your feet this is it. Such a cute read with a good holiday feel. The spice factor was very nice as well. I really enjoyed this book. It is the third in the Pebble Brook Falls series, but could be read as a standalone. I didn’t feel like I was missing anything from the previous two books but now after reading this, I would definitely like to read the other two.
I definitely recommend this book to other romance readers out there!