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Smokejumpers
Jase
A bully redeemed. A truth revealed. A new sizzling connection.
Quinn Sanders grew up in a strict and religious family, unable to be true to himself as a gay teen. Bullying was his coping mechanism, but his regrets are many. He became a New Orleans firefighter as a means of redemption for his past.
After a horrific fire leaves him the only survivor of the station house, another kind of guilt now plagues his every waking moment. Back in Baton Rouge for a fresh start, Quinn finds the past rearing its ugly head once more.
Jase Turner joined the fire department to fit society’s expectations of masculinity. After a childhood filled with bullying, life-altering choices, and years of therapy, Jase is still terrified of anyone discovering he is gay.
When Quinn transfers to Jase’s station, the old feelings of animosity resurface, causing tension in the firehouse. Forced to work closely, the two men discover they have more in common than they could have imagined and Jase starts to see Quinn in a whole new light.
Will they be able to overcome their history and give in to the intense emotional connection they now have?
Quinn Sanders grew up in a strict and religious family, unable to be true to himself as a gay teen. Bullying was his coping mechanism, but his regrets are many. He became a New Orleans firefighter as a means of redemption for his past.
After a horrific fire leaves him the only survivor of the station house, another kind of guilt now plagues his every waking moment. Back in Baton Rouge for a fresh start, Quinn finds the past rearing its ugly head once more.
Jase Turner joined the fire department to fit society’s expectations of masculinity. After a childhood filled with bullying, life-altering choices, and years of therapy, Jase is still terrified of anyone discovering he is gay.
When Quinn transfers to Jase’s station, the old feelings of animosity resurface, causing tension in the firehouse. Forced to work closely, the two men discover they have more in common than they could have imagined and Jase starts to see Quinn in a whole new light.
Will they be able to overcome their history and give in to the intense emotional connection they now have?
426 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 28, 2024
31 people are currently reading
26 people want to read
About the author
Evie Riley
54 books25 followersEvie Riley believes too much time spent at the beach is barely enough. She enjoys spending time puttering in the garden, cooking yummy things for her family, and has a quirky personality, described by her partner as ranging from cute to deadly, depending on her blood-chocolate levels.
Evie crafts steamy gay male romance filled with all the edgy angst, or dark and gritty romantic suspense where her men must overcome difficult obstacles and may find love along the way while dishing out their own brand of justice.
Evie spends her nights writing bad boys in love, and her days wrangling the sweet boys she loves.
Evie crafts steamy gay male romance filled with all the edgy angst, or dark and gritty romantic suspense where her men must overcome difficult obstacles and may find love along the way while dishing out their own brand of justice.
Evie spends her nights writing bad boys in love, and her days wrangling the sweet boys she loves.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
February 6, 2024
It was a good read. Low angst and the plot takes its time to make things between Jase and Quinn develop naturally. At times it feels like Jase refuses to let go of his resentment, which is totally understandable in his situation, as the bullying was quite severe and affected him greatly, but even that aspect was well handled by the author.
I thought it was a bit hypocritical of Jase to get mad at Quinn when he thought he had a partner, since Jase agreed to go to Quinn's apartment even though he thought Quinn was taken... 🤔 It's like Jase agreed, to some extent, to be with Quinn even though he had a partner, as long as no one knew...? I do not know... But I didn't understand his reasoning.
Anyway, good book, it reads fast since the plot is not complicated and I found the narration very good (better than the previous books).
I received this book for free in exchange for my honest review and opinion. Thanks to booksirens for this ARC.
I thought it was a bit hypocritical of Jase to get mad at Quinn when he thought he had a partner, since Jase agreed to go to Quinn's apartment even though he thought Quinn was taken... 🤔 It's like Jase agreed, to some extent, to be with Quinn even though he had a partner, as long as no one knew...? I do not know... But I didn't understand his reasoning.
Anyway, good book, it reads fast since the plot is not complicated and I found the narration very good (better than the previous books).
I received this book for free in exchange for my honest review and opinion. Thanks to booksirens for this ARC.
February 3, 2024
I started this series with this book - I think it’s the third in a series about a group of firefighters.
Quinn is transferred to a new firehouse after an accident that has seen his workmates killed. He doesn’t expect to encounter a new colleague who he shares a difficult past with, as Jase was a guy he bullied in his younger years. The book is about the exploration of their adult relationship which changes drastically.
This book discusses mental health and bullying retrospectively with flashback chapters mainly from Jase. Quinn’s challenges relate to his issues from growing up in a religious family and his recovery from losing his workmates. These issues are all dealt with sensitively but I’m not sure the book really went far enough and the forgiveness definitely came far too easily.
I’m not one for the characters imagining/dreaming someone is with them (on page) so that didn’t really work for me and I would have preferred their issues to be addressed with a little more depth and discussion even if it made the book longer.
There is some discussion and imagery of self-harm here so if readers have sensitivity to these topics they should take care reading.
Thanks to Book Sirens for the opportunity to read this book
Quinn is transferred to a new firehouse after an accident that has seen his workmates killed. He doesn’t expect to encounter a new colleague who he shares a difficult past with, as Jase was a guy he bullied in his younger years. The book is about the exploration of their adult relationship which changes drastically.
This book discusses mental health and bullying retrospectively with flashback chapters mainly from Jase. Quinn’s challenges relate to his issues from growing up in a religious family and his recovery from losing his workmates. These issues are all dealt with sensitively but I’m not sure the book really went far enough and the forgiveness definitely came far too easily.
I’m not one for the characters imagining/dreaming someone is with them (on page) so that didn’t really work for me and I would have preferred their issues to be addressed with a little more depth and discussion even if it made the book longer.
There is some discussion and imagery of self-harm here so if readers have sensitivity to these topics they should take care reading.
Thanks to Book Sirens for the opportunity to read this book
December 30, 2023
I received an ARC of Jase for an honest review.
The story of Jase and Quinn is one of enemies to lovers.
Back while at school Jase used to me mercilessly bullied by Quinn to the point of self-harm.
Quinn, we find out did this because of his strict church upbringing to hide his own fears of
being gay and being found out and rejected by family and church.
Fast forward and Quinn has moved to a different town where he came out and became comfortable with his own sexuality. While working as a firefighter his whole team, all but him, die in a warehouse fire. He returns to his home town when get gets transferred to a station there only to find Jase, also gay but in the closet, who also pursued a career as a firefighter, is on his new team. Jase is angry and hates Quinn’s guts for having put him through so much grief while at school. But the two have to learn to work together and over time they progress from enemies to lovers. HEA guaranteed.
I loved this story. I could feel the feelings each of the characters were experiencing. The remorse in Quinn turning to attraction then to love for Jase, the anger turning into excitement, attraction and finally into love in Jase. The self-doubts each of them went through at times. I loved the antics and the fun parts of the books as much as the hot sex scenes.
The coming out of Jase to his co-workers as well as to his family, the misunderstandings, the laughter, the joy and the coming together of these two guys. The book at me on the edge of my seat at times hoping for the two to finally get together.
The only thing I can say felt a bit too “USA style” (unnecessary hype), for an international reader as I am, was Quinn taking responsibility for paying the hospital bill when Jase was still in surgery and telling his parents about it. It was surely a work accident and would have been paid for by the employing agency. It just felt a bit off, and seeing Quinn had bought clothes in a second hand store earlier it didn’t ring true of his financial situation.
But overall I loved the book and am looking forward to reading more books by Eve Riley.
The story of Jase and Quinn is one of enemies to lovers.
Back while at school Jase used to me mercilessly bullied by Quinn to the point of self-harm.
Quinn, we find out did this because of his strict church upbringing to hide his own fears of
being gay and being found out and rejected by family and church.
Fast forward and Quinn has moved to a different town where he came out and became comfortable with his own sexuality. While working as a firefighter his whole team, all but him, die in a warehouse fire. He returns to his home town when get gets transferred to a station there only to find Jase, also gay but in the closet, who also pursued a career as a firefighter, is on his new team. Jase is angry and hates Quinn’s guts for having put him through so much grief while at school. But the two have to learn to work together and over time they progress from enemies to lovers. HEA guaranteed.
I loved this story. I could feel the feelings each of the characters were experiencing. The remorse in Quinn turning to attraction then to love for Jase, the anger turning into excitement, attraction and finally into love in Jase. The self-doubts each of them went through at times. I loved the antics and the fun parts of the books as much as the hot sex scenes.
The coming out of Jase to his co-workers as well as to his family, the misunderstandings, the laughter, the joy and the coming together of these two guys. The book at me on the edge of my seat at times hoping for the two to finally get together.
The only thing I can say felt a bit too “USA style” (unnecessary hype), for an international reader as I am, was Quinn taking responsibility for paying the hospital bill when Jase was still in surgery and telling his parents about it. It was surely a work accident and would have been paid for by the employing agency. It just felt a bit off, and seeing Quinn had bought clothes in a second hand store earlier it didn’t ring true of his financial situation.
But overall I loved the book and am looking forward to reading more books by Eve Riley.
January 21, 2024
Jase is the third book in the Smokejumpers series by Eve Riley, this is a standalone book in an MM romance series surrounding firefighters of Baton Rouge Station 21. The blurb does feature the content warning for some hard hitting scenes: historic bullying, historic suicide attempts/flashbacks and deaths in fire. This is a story of redemption and healing of two damaged and traumatised men who have had to fight their entire lives.
Quinn Sanders was the son of the local preacher and as a result, even though he knew he was gay as a teen, Quinn was too frightened to do anything. And because of that he became a bully and he relentlessly bullied one of his victims - Jase Turner. As an adult Quinn has tried to make amends and part of that was becoming a firefighter, leaving his life behind for New Orleans. Unfortunately, he went through one of most horrific experiences losing his best friend and his team in a massive fire. It's this that sends him back to Baton Rogue, where he has to face the one person he hurt the most.
Jase Turner was relentlessly bullied at high school. So much so that he even attempted to end his life. Now as an adult he has to face his tormentor and work with the man. Things are naturally tense between them and it's seems like it's impossible that the gap can be bridged. It isn't easy but they end up being able to talk through their pain and trauma together. Unlike Quinn, Jase doesn't identify as gay or bisexual - he doesn't really know what's going on between himself and Quinn as things change between them. But he is ready to embrace his feelings as things unfold.
Jase and Quinn have such a great dynamic. I can't find the words to cover just how complex their story is and how wonderful it was. It was a roller coaster of emotions and I enjoyed every minute of it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Quinn Sanders was the son of the local preacher and as a result, even though he knew he was gay as a teen, Quinn was too frightened to do anything. And because of that he became a bully and he relentlessly bullied one of his victims - Jase Turner. As an adult Quinn has tried to make amends and part of that was becoming a firefighter, leaving his life behind for New Orleans. Unfortunately, he went through one of most horrific experiences losing his best friend and his team in a massive fire. It's this that sends him back to Baton Rogue, where he has to face the one person he hurt the most.
Jase Turner was relentlessly bullied at high school. So much so that he even attempted to end his life. Now as an adult he has to face his tormentor and work with the man. Things are naturally tense between them and it's seems like it's impossible that the gap can be bridged. It isn't easy but they end up being able to talk through their pain and trauma together. Unlike Quinn, Jase doesn't identify as gay or bisexual - he doesn't really know what's going on between himself and Quinn as things change between them. But he is ready to embrace his feelings as things unfold.
Jase and Quinn have such a great dynamic. I can't find the words to cover just how complex their story is and how wonderful it was. It was a roller coaster of emotions and I enjoyed every minute of it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 1, 2024
The blurb for the book has most of the background information you need. The history between Jase and Quinn due to high school bullying is terrible, the feelings lingering many years later, creating problems for Jase when Quinn shows up as a new member of the firehouse crew. Jase has not forgotten nor forgiven Quinn and pretty well makes Quinn’s life as uncomfortable as possible, creating a bad vibe for all at the house. To sort it out, the Captain assigns the two as partners to learn to work together. Things are still tense until an unexpected meeting away from the firehouse causes both to see each other in a new light, and possibly in a very different way. There is an attraction between the two, but a whole lot of baggage and miscommunication must be dug through and a dangerous situation faced before the chance to both find something they have been searching for but never expected to find.
Some triggering situations to get through for both characters with bullying, attempted suicide, death of side characters, coming out of the closet, a life and death situation, and long recovery make for an interesting and fast-paced story which carries the reader along. Descriptions of past bullying episodes told from the POV of both characters, a form of bullying going on at the firehouse, the devastating feelings and impact on the emotional health of the victim of bullying, the aftermath and feelings of the death of close friends, and the adjustment, or lack thereof years later are all addressed with sensitivity but also realism. Jase and Quinn were both victims of the environment in which they grew up, and that becomes abundantly clear in the narrative. Some thought-provoking ideas and realities presented. 4.5 stars, rounded up to 5
I received an advance copy of this book and this is my voluntary review.
Some triggering situations to get through for both characters with bullying, attempted suicide, death of side characters, coming out of the closet, a life and death situation, and long recovery make for an interesting and fast-paced story which carries the reader along. Descriptions of past bullying episodes told from the POV of both characters, a form of bullying going on at the firehouse, the devastating feelings and impact on the emotional health of the victim of bullying, the aftermath and feelings of the death of close friends, and the adjustment, or lack thereof years later are all addressed with sensitivity but also realism. Jase and Quinn were both victims of the environment in which they grew up, and that becomes abundantly clear in the narrative. Some thought-provoking ideas and realities presented. 4.5 stars, rounded up to 5
I received an advance copy of this book and this is my voluntary review.
February 9, 2024
You will go through every emotion reading this booK
I’ve got to say I thoroughly enjoyed this book, but reading the chapters and the little snippets of memories of being bullied was hard to read.
Jase is a fireman who is gay, but because of previous bullying, he didn’t feel like he could admit to that. He still had those memories, but those memories came full circle when his school bully walked into his fire station with his captain, explaining that Quinn was a new member of the team, so you can imagine what Jase was feeling.
Quinn had a hard upbringing in a very religious family which made him feel like he couldn’t be the person he was so he chose to look big and strong, and in his mind that meant bullying, smaller people, he came out to his family later years, and had not heard off them since.
he was in a fire station in New Orleans, but there was a horrific fire that killed everyone on his team but Quinn. So he was living through the nightmare of losing everything, and he hoped that coming back to his hometown working for the Baton Rouge fire station would help because now he understood what made him a bully, and he wants to help people so they both got a shock at the fire station.
I would say there is great hostility from Jase which I totally understood and my heart went out to him it really really did. he really suffered to bullies it nearly made him lose everything even himself, but he’s stronger now. A firefighter and one night whilst they were tipsy the attraction between them became obvious the passion for one another is off the charts you could see that they had a real deep connection, so would they make it??.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I’ve got to say I thoroughly enjoyed this book, but reading the chapters and the little snippets of memories of being bullied was hard to read.
Jase is a fireman who is gay, but because of previous bullying, he didn’t feel like he could admit to that. He still had those memories, but those memories came full circle when his school bully walked into his fire station with his captain, explaining that Quinn was a new member of the team, so you can imagine what Jase was feeling.
Quinn had a hard upbringing in a very religious family which made him feel like he couldn’t be the person he was so he chose to look big and strong, and in his mind that meant bullying, smaller people, he came out to his family later years, and had not heard off them since.
he was in a fire station in New Orleans, but there was a horrific fire that killed everyone on his team but Quinn. So he was living through the nightmare of losing everything, and he hoped that coming back to his hometown working for the Baton Rouge fire station would help because now he understood what made him a bully, and he wants to help people so they both got a shock at the fire station.
I would say there is great hostility from Jase which I totally understood and my heart went out to him it really really did. he really suffered to bullies it nearly made him lose everything even himself, but he’s stronger now. A firefighter and one night whilst they were tipsy the attraction between them became obvious the passion for one another is off the charts you could see that they had a real deep connection, so would they make it??.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 4, 2024
This is the third book in Eve Riley's "Smokejumpers" series but all are totally standalone.
Jase Turner couldn't believe his eyes when he came face to face with the latest member of his team, it was a face that had haunted him, a face that he hoped never to see again, despite hating the man with a passion, he was strangely attracted to him, Jase had kept his homosexuality a secret.
Quinn Sanders was the son of a local preacher, a homophobic father who would never have understood or accepted Quin for what he was......gay.
In an attempt to prove his masculinity at high school, Quinn became a bully, terrorizing, belittling and humiliating fellow students to the point of suicide.
As Quinn grew older he decided it was time to face up to who he was and try to atone for his past behaviour, to do this he moved to New Orléans and became a firefighter and instead of ruining lives, saving them. After a horrific accident to his team, Quinn was transferred back to his home town of Baton Rouge and when he was being introduced to his new team he came face to face with a furious face from his past, Jase Turner, one of his high school victims.
This story follows the team at Station 21 trying to operate safely despite the tension that Quinn and Jase had created, the hatred that Jase felt for Quinn was palpable but also the underling attraction, an attraction that he couldn't allow the rest of his team to discover.
The author has covered several emotive subjects sensitively, homosexuality, bullying, suicide but also how, with understanding, hate can turn to love.
I received a free copy of this book and my review is voluntary.
Jase Turner couldn't believe his eyes when he came face to face with the latest member of his team, it was a face that had haunted him, a face that he hoped never to see again, despite hating the man with a passion, he was strangely attracted to him, Jase had kept his homosexuality a secret.
Quinn Sanders was the son of a local preacher, a homophobic father who would never have understood or accepted Quin for what he was......gay.
In an attempt to prove his masculinity at high school, Quinn became a bully, terrorizing, belittling and humiliating fellow students to the point of suicide.
As Quinn grew older he decided it was time to face up to who he was and try to atone for his past behaviour, to do this he moved to New Orléans and became a firefighter and instead of ruining lives, saving them. After a horrific accident to his team, Quinn was transferred back to his home town of Baton Rouge and when he was being introduced to his new team he came face to face with a furious face from his past, Jase Turner, one of his high school victims.
This story follows the team at Station 21 trying to operate safely despite the tension that Quinn and Jase had created, the hatred that Jase felt for Quinn was palpable but also the underling attraction, an attraction that he couldn't allow the rest of his team to discover.
The author has covered several emotive subjects sensitively, homosexuality, bullying, suicide but also how, with understanding, hate can turn to love.
I received a free copy of this book and my review is voluntary.
February 9, 2024
Quinn Sanders grew up in a strict religious family and so was not able to come out as gay. Instead, he coped by being a bully and has many regrets now he is older and wiser. He became a New Orleans firefighter and after a horrific fire made him the only survivor of his station house he lives with survivors guilt. He transfers back home to Baton Rouge for a fresh start but the past is there to torment him. Firefighter Jase Turner has had a lifetime of therapy but is terrified of anyone discovering he is gay so hides behind the masculinity of his job. When Quinn transfers to Jase's station old feelings of animosity resurface causing tension in the firehouse. As they have been forced to work together they discover they have far more in common and Jase starts to see Quinn in a new light. Will they be able to overcome their history and give in to the intense emotional connection they now have?
I loved this dramatic story of the two firefighters who had painful histories which left them with passion and similarities that had been handled in different ways. As they started to see life from each other's viewpoint and understood their pasts better it was great to see that their communication also improved. I loved how Quinn just knew what was going to happen in the fire and took unilateral action to save Jase and that he then cared for him afterwards. I did find the way Quinn covered Jase's medical bills strange - surely as it was done at work it was covered by the fire department? Easy to read, feel and understand. This is an MM story with mature content.
I loved this dramatic story of the two firefighters who had painful histories which left them with passion and similarities that had been handled in different ways. As they started to see life from each other's viewpoint and understood their pasts better it was great to see that their communication also improved. I loved how Quinn just knew what was going to happen in the fire and took unilateral action to save Jase and that he then cared for him afterwards. I did find the way Quinn covered Jase's medical bills strange - surely as it was done at work it was covered by the fire department? Easy to read, feel and understand. This is an MM story with mature content.
March 5, 2024
Another GREAT story in the Smokejumpers series by Eve Riley. This one was a great one although one of the trigger could’ve triggered me but did not. It was the childhood bullying which has a profound impact on me. I was worried when reading this book but it did not even trigger me at all. I simply devoured the story. I certainly could relate to Jase because he was bullied in school. I appreciated the careful approach the author implemented when it comes to bullying. I’m hoping there’ll be more in the series because I have loved the books I read by her so far! 5 stars from me!
The story focuses on Jase, a firefighter for this inclusive fire station where most of the firefighters are either gay or bi. The strange thing is Jase has not come out to anyone at the station. He just wasn’t ready to do it. However, when the station got a firefighter transferred from other station, it put Jase’s secret at risk. That firefighter was someone Jase thought he would never see again after his miserable high school life.
Quinn, the transfer was excited about being transferred to this fire station because he heard that it was the most inclusive fire station. He did not expect to see this guy he tormented in high school. However, he was happy to see Jase because he had an underlying feeling for him despite being the bully. He had been struggling with gay feelings and turned against that by bullying the school gay.
Would Jase ever forgive Quinn? That’s for you to find out by reading the book! An awesome reading!
The story focuses on Jase, a firefighter for this inclusive fire station where most of the firefighters are either gay or bi. The strange thing is Jase has not come out to anyone at the station. He just wasn’t ready to do it. However, when the station got a firefighter transferred from other station, it put Jase’s secret at risk. That firefighter was someone Jase thought he would never see again after his miserable high school life.
Quinn, the transfer was excited about being transferred to this fire station because he heard that it was the most inclusive fire station. He did not expect to see this guy he tormented in high school. However, he was happy to see Jase because he had an underlying feeling for him despite being the bully. He had been struggling with gay feelings and turned against that by bullying the school gay.
Would Jase ever forgive Quinn? That’s for you to find out by reading the book! An awesome reading!
December 30, 2023
This was a quick read. It took less than 24 hours to read and that also says it was a book that captured my attention.
The story is simple. it is about two firemen - one in New Orleans whose whole team except him (Quinn) die when a warehouse collapses. The other is in Baton Rouge (Jase) where he grew up being bullied by non-other than Quinn. Quinn moves back to Baton Rouge to join Jase's team (the email Quinn receives talks of transfer but in most States, the two fire departments would be completely separate and this it would not be a transfer).
Jase and Quinn start out as enemies and Jase's team picks up on why Jase is unhappy with the new team member. They both are so exhausted trying to get along with each other they both end up going to LaFayette during days off and meet at a gay club which breaks the ice (I do not believe that such an immediate release of past feelings can happen as I believe it takes time).
The characters and basic feelings that both have about being gay (out or not out) are realistic and certainly bullying is one way it exhibits. There is a moral here that might be explored more. Quinn however ends up with a gulf between his parents and the church while Jase does not experience the same in the end.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The story is simple. it is about two firemen - one in New Orleans whose whole team except him (Quinn) die when a warehouse collapses. The other is in Baton Rouge (Jase) where he grew up being bullied by non-other than Quinn. Quinn moves back to Baton Rouge to join Jase's team (the email Quinn receives talks of transfer but in most States, the two fire departments would be completely separate and this it would not be a transfer).
Jase and Quinn start out as enemies and Jase's team picks up on why Jase is unhappy with the new team member. They both are so exhausted trying to get along with each other they both end up going to LaFayette during days off and meet at a gay club which breaks the ice (I do not believe that such an immediate release of past feelings can happen as I believe it takes time).
The characters and basic feelings that both have about being gay (out or not out) are realistic and certainly bullying is one way it exhibits. There is a moral here that might be explored more. Quinn however ends up with a gulf between his parents and the church while Jase does not experience the same in the end.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 19, 2024
A firefighter romance heavy on the trauma
◽ Bully/Bullied (past)
◽ Firefighters
◽ Dark themes
◽ Dual POV
First thing to mention is this book can get very dark, the one Quinn bullied Jase when they were teens and there are some flashbacks - to the bullying itself and to the dark place Jase went, he tried to end things. Obviously things ended well and this does have an HEA but these things are depicted in detail.
To the story itself, even though this is part of a series you don’t need to have read any of the previous books to know what’s going on (this is the only one I’ve read).
Quinn is reassigned and it ends up being Jase’s team. The growth of their relationship feels natural, Jase is hostile - understandably. Quinn has grown over the years and is a completely different person than he was as a teenager (as one does) but of course Jase doesn’t know that. The first ⅔ of the book is them circling each other, the last third is where it finally picks up.
Overall I enjoyed the book and almost read it in one sitting but sleep beckoned and I had to put it down. The only reason it’s not 5 stars is because in the middle of the book (at least this is when I noticed it, and I believe it was only in the middle) there was suddenly a lack of contractions.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
◽ Bully/Bullied (past)
◽ Firefighters
◽ Dark themes
◽ Dual POV
First thing to mention is this book can get very dark, the one Quinn bullied Jase when they were teens and there are some flashbacks - to the bullying itself and to the dark place Jase went, he tried to end things. Obviously things ended well and this does have an HEA but these things are depicted in detail.
To the story itself, even though this is part of a series you don’t need to have read any of the previous books to know what’s going on (this is the only one I’ve read).
Quinn is reassigned and it ends up being Jase’s team. The growth of their relationship feels natural, Jase is hostile - understandably. Quinn has grown over the years and is a completely different person than he was as a teenager (as one does) but of course Jase doesn’t know that. The first ⅔ of the book is them circling each other, the last third is where it finally picks up.
Overall I enjoyed the book and almost read it in one sitting but sleep beckoned and I had to put it down. The only reason it’s not 5 stars is because in the middle of the book (at least this is when I noticed it, and I believe it was only in the middle) there was suddenly a lack of contractions.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 10, 2024
From bully to lover with steam and passion
This book is about two firefighters: Jase Turner in his thirties, way back in the closet and Quinn Sanders also in his thirties, out and proud. Their connection started in high school when Quinn bullied Jase because it was easier than coming out to his very religious parents. There will be memories of the bullying events so be aware (written in italics if you must skip them). I found the scenes helpful to additionally “flavor” the story. As an adult Quinn has become a much better human being, trying to make up for his past transgressions. When a tragic event precipitates his movement from one fire station to another, our story reunites Jase with Quinn. In the beginning, there will be fireworks but not of the pleasant kind.
Lots of scenes made me smile, one made me cry and others made me tingle. I have loved Ms. Riley’s smokejumpers series and the last series as well. In my mind she is a must-read if you like well-written, fast-paced gay romance. I can always count on a scene that opens the book which will grab me and keep me reading. I can’t wait to read Gage next in this series. I also appreciated her notes in the beginning of the book. I volunteered to review an ARC of it through BookSirens and this author comes highly recommended.
This book is about two firefighters: Jase Turner in his thirties, way back in the closet and Quinn Sanders also in his thirties, out and proud. Their connection started in high school when Quinn bullied Jase because it was easier than coming out to his very religious parents. There will be memories of the bullying events so be aware (written in italics if you must skip them). I found the scenes helpful to additionally “flavor” the story. As an adult Quinn has become a much better human being, trying to make up for his past transgressions. When a tragic event precipitates his movement from one fire station to another, our story reunites Jase with Quinn. In the beginning, there will be fireworks but not of the pleasant kind.
Lots of scenes made me smile, one made me cry and others made me tingle. I have loved Ms. Riley’s smokejumpers series and the last series as well. In my mind she is a must-read if you like well-written, fast-paced gay romance. I can always count on a scene that opens the book which will grab me and keep me reading. I can’t wait to read Gage next in this series. I also appreciated her notes in the beginning of the book. I volunteered to review an ARC of it through BookSirens and this author comes highly recommended.
February 6, 2024
Quinn Sanders is a firefighter and the sole survivor of his unit in New Orleans. He has a bad case of survivor's guilt. Then he gets notified he is being reassigned to a new unit in Baton Rouge. A new start in his home town. A new start to try to redeem himself for surviving. He is also an out and about gay man.
Jase Turner is in Baton Rouge and when he sees the new man he recognizes him from the brown birth mark over one of his eyes. It brought back memories of the boy who bullied him throughout high school. He is rude to him. Back then he had come out as gay and that caused the bullying.
Two men whose lives were one of constant flux. One who hid his insecurities and what he felt behind the mask of bullying. The other who was bullied because of what he was. Will Quinn be able to work with Jase? He is still fearful because of the bullying and afraid he will his team's respect. Will Jase be able to grow as an individual? Will he get past what his firefighter team will think?
A beautiful story of two individuals whose lives started out very rocky but who overcame the past to live.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Jase Turner is in Baton Rouge and when he sees the new man he recognizes him from the brown birth mark over one of his eyes. It brought back memories of the boy who bullied him throughout high school. He is rude to him. Back then he had come out as gay and that caused the bullying.
Two men whose lives were one of constant flux. One who hid his insecurities and what he felt behind the mask of bullying. The other who was bullied because of what he was. Will Quinn be able to work with Jase? He is still fearful because of the bullying and afraid he will his team's respect. Will Jase be able to grow as an individual? Will he get past what his firefighter team will think?
A beautiful story of two individuals whose lives started out very rocky but who overcame the past to live.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 2, 2024
Jase and Quinn are both firefighters, and were teenage schoolmates. Quinn bullied Jase to the point of suicide back then but has since come out as gay himself. Quinn loses his best friend and entire company in a massive fire and transfers to his hometown company. And there is Jase, who has grown up into a handsome but closeted fireman. They meet up accidentally while out of town and have a hot connection. From there, they gradually fall for each other, there are misunderstandings and Jase comes out to his understanding mom.
The reason for only 3 stars is that the writing is not very good. Words are out of order; dialogue is stilted. Despite lots of heat, I could not get into these two people together because we don't really know them beyond the superficial story. No one goes from losing their entire workgroup to joining a new department without counseling and grieving. I usually love this author's books, but I got very little pleasure from this one.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The reason for only 3 stars is that the writing is not very good. Words are out of order; dialogue is stilted. Despite lots of heat, I could not get into these two people together because we don't really know them beyond the superficial story. No one goes from losing their entire workgroup to joining a new department without counseling and grieving. I usually love this author's books, but I got very little pleasure from this one.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 29, 2023
Quinn, a fire fighter, his survivors guilt crippling him after his whole squad died in a warehouse fire. Going back home to a new squad was supposed to be a new start. Until his bully high school past slapped him in the face. Jace was forced to work with the man who made his high school years unbearable. It wasn’t until they both started letting go of the past that they were able to make a future together.
The bullying storyline seemed a bit underwhelming for something that caused such physical harm to one of the characters. I did feel that the bullying was handled tactfully. It seemed that Jase forgave Quinn far to easily though.
The firehouse personnel were good supporting characters and I liked them. The main characters interactions were spicy.
While I felt this book was better than previous books in the series, I still felt like there was something missing.
I received an arc of this book
The bullying storyline seemed a bit underwhelming for something that caused such physical harm to one of the characters. I did feel that the bullying was handled tactfully. It seemed that Jase forgave Quinn far to easily though.
The firehouse personnel were good supporting characters and I liked them. The main characters interactions were spicy.
While I felt this book was better than previous books in the series, I still felt like there was something missing.
I received an arc of this book
February 6, 2024
Quinn used to be a bully in high school. His behavior covered a lot of guilt and he was hiding from his truth... that he was gay, from an ultra religious family and he was in love with the one guy he bullied on. Trying to rectify his past, he gives back to the community by being a firefighter. Being the only fireman, from his station, that survives a fire, he starts over in his hometown, away from the memories and sympathy of the other firemen in New Orleans. His first day he discovers Jase, the main guy he bullied and his secret crush. Jase is furious about Quinn being on his team and remembers all of the feelings he ga and the pain he endured. Being thrown together in a truck, handling shifts and emergencies doesn't bring them together. But finding Quinn in the gay club, Jase gives into his desire for Quinn.
Touching story about bullying, redemption and forgiveness. I loved Jase and Quinn.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Touching story about bullying, redemption and forgiveness. I loved Jase and Quinn.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 11, 2024
Quinn Sanders grew up in a strict religious family and he could not come out as gay. He couldn't deal with his own issues so he decided to bully Jase Turner during their high school years. After high school, Quinn learns to be a better person and is more confident in himself. After a tragic fire where he was the only survivor of the firefighting team, he gets transfer to Station 21 where he meets Jason again.
Jason originally became a firefighter to fit into society's view on what is considered masculine. He is still in the closet.
It takes a while before the two of them can learn to work together and clear the air. The book deals with the trauma they both faced in the past delicately.
As usual, there some steamy scenes. I am going to continue with the series.
Thank you BookSirens for the e-ARC. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Jason originally became a firefighter to fit into society's view on what is considered masculine. He is still in the closet.
It takes a while before the two of them can learn to work together and clear the air. The book deals with the trauma they both faced in the past delicately.
As usual, there some steamy scenes. I am going to continue with the series.
Thank you BookSirens for the e-ARC. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 22, 2023
Quinn a preacher’s son used to bully Jase when they were in school mainly for being gay. He moved away but after his whole crew were killed in a fire and was the only survivor was transferred to a fire house in his hometown. Jase was really upset that he had to work with Quinn as they were on the same crew because of Quinn transferring there. Some of the firefighters took Jase’s side but then one night they both had gone to another town to hook up with someone and found each other then Quinn told his story for what he had done in school and apologized. They got together but Jase left later there was a fire, Jase went in to save a kid didn’t come back out so Quinn found him with his leg caught in the floor and got them out. Quinn wanted everything with Jase told him everything Jase had misunderstood moved in to help Jase after the surgery on his leg. Good book!
December 26, 2023
This was another great book by Eve! Jase was bullied by Quinn when they were in high school, and Quinn, the son of a conservative preacher parroted his father’s hurtful words at Jase, driving him to the point of attempting to take his life. Fast forward and it is announced that Quinn will be joining Jase’s team of firefighters. Jase is outraged and Quinn sets out to prove that he is a worthy member of the team. A chance meeting of Jase and Quinn out of town leads them to truly communicate and move forward from the past, developing a friendship and more. The topic of bullying was handled in a very sensitive manner, first showing the impact of the words and actions had on Jase and later the impetus for Quinn’s attacks and the pain and suffering he was also experiencing. Bravo for the way a very hurtful topic was presented. Well done!
February 6, 2024
Jase is Book 3 in the Smokejumpers series. This is a wonderfully written enemies to lovers story about firefighters Jase and Quinn. Jase and Quinn's story starts way before they started working together at the firehouse. Quinn was a bully in school and Jase was his target. Now years later when a tragedy occurs Quinn finds himself in need of a new station. He headed back home and found a place at the fire station were Jace works, unbeknownst to him. I love the found family atmosphere of the firehouse. They all look out for each other. Jase and Quinn are encouraged to overcome their differences and work together for the betterment of everyone. I really enjoyed this book. I enjoyed watching Quinn and Jase confront their past as they discover their love for one another. I definitely recommend this book and series.
I voluntarily reviewed an arc of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an arc of this book.
February 8, 2024
Jase and Quinn went to high school together. Quinn and his friends were the school bullies. They tormented Jase daily for no reason. Quinn would do and say the most horrible thing to Jase. And it was all to his his own demons. At a low time, Jase felt he couldn't take the bulling, so he inflected self-harm. Jump ahead 10 years Quinn's who Firehouse dies in a fire and he gets transformed to a new house in his hometown. Which happens to be Jase's house. Quinn needs to prove he is a changed man. Will or could Jase ever forgive Quinn? Talk about two who should not be together. As always, this is another great book in this series. I could be read as a standalone. However, it is best to read from the first. You learn all the characters.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 8, 2024
I loved Jase (Smokejumpers Book 3) by Eve Riley. This was an amazing story but some parts are hard to read, you will cry. That said I loved it. Quinn lost his whole team and a move to a new city is needed. He wasn’t expecting Jase, the kid he tormented in high school to be there. Quinn isn’t the same person and now he needs to prove it to Jase. Jase can’t believe that Quinn is here, how can he trust him. A chance encounter one weekend leaves them both with new feelings and wanting more. Quinn will do anything to win Jase’s heart but Jase thinks Quinn has a secret. I loved this storyline and the characters. This is an amazing love story and one of healing. I would definitely recommend this book and the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 6, 2024
Eve Riley starts us off with Quinn fighting a fire that left him as the sole survivor on his team. Being transferred to a different city, he comes face to face with the teen he bullied in school and Jase was not going to easily forgive the past.
After a few weeks, they happened to meet up at a gay bar and a night of passion places them in an awkward position as Jase is still in the closet. As the story progresses, things improve until Quinn is confronted by a church member and soon after a serious fire breaks out in the city.
This author kept my attention throughout, with various emotions flowing through her words and I know that I will always enjoy her book whenever I see her name.
I received a copy from BookSirens Reviews and this is my honest and voluntary review.
After a few weeks, they happened to meet up at a gay bar and a night of passion places them in an awkward position as Jase is still in the closet. As the story progresses, things improve until Quinn is confronted by a church member and soon after a serious fire breaks out in the city.
This author kept my attention throughout, with various emotions flowing through her words and I know that I will always enjoy her book whenever I see her name.
I received a copy from BookSirens Reviews and this is my honest and voluntary review.
December 30, 2023
I received a copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Jase is haunted by his past when Quinn is transferred to his firehouse. Quinn knows that he needs to apologize for his actions as a teenager but Jase isn’t willing to hear it. This story is all about redemption for both characters. Jase and Quinn are able to be themselves and face their demons while finding love in the end.
Overall really enjoyed the book; it fits well in the series. I wish we would’ve had some flashbacks from Quinn’s perspective. His motivation for bullying is clear but I wish he showed more emotion about it since he shows emotions in other scenes.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Jase is haunted by his past when Quinn is transferred to his firehouse. Quinn knows that he needs to apologize for his actions as a teenager but Jase isn’t willing to hear it. This story is all about redemption for both characters. Jase and Quinn are able to be themselves and face their demons while finding love in the end.
Overall really enjoyed the book; it fits well in the series. I wish we would’ve had some flashbacks from Quinn’s perspective. His motivation for bullying is clear but I wish he showed more emotion about it since he shows emotions in other scenes.
January 14, 2024
Quinn is a firefighter that lost his team in a devastating fire leaving his with survivors guilt and when he gets the news that he got the position at the fire station in his home town he is hoping this is fresh start.
Jase is a firefighter, was bullied by Quinn in school and has trauma from it. Needless to say he is not happy that Quinn is on his team. To make matters worse the Captain makes them work together.
Quinn had his own demons as a kid and wants to show Jase that he has changed and is a better person.
Jase and Quinn have feelings for each other that once they act on them things move pretty quickly.
Jase is a firefighter, was bullied by Quinn in school and has trauma from it. Needless to say he is not happy that Quinn is on his team. To make matters worse the Captain makes them work together.
Quinn had his own demons as a kid and wants to show Jase that he has changed and is a better person.
Jase and Quinn have feelings for each other that once they act on them things move pretty quickly.
February 1, 2024
This is another great addition to the series, this is Jase and Quinn’s story, this is an enemies to lovers story with two broken men as MCs. Quinn comes back to his hometown to work after being the lone survivor of a fire that killed the rest of team he’s struggling with survivors guilt when he start his new job he comes face to face with Jase whom he badly bullied when they were younger, Jase doesn’t want him there but for the firehouse they try to get along it works so well that there feeling’s for each other change and there fall for each other. This is another really good read in this series and is well worth a read.
February 12, 2024
A BULLY REDEEMED! A VICTEM CHERISHED💕
Oh the feels with the third book in the series!
A low angst love story about redemption, forgiveness and self acceptance showcasing inner homophobia with back flashes to childhood bullying trauma!
A bully and his victim cross paths fifteen years later at the same fire station in Baton Rouge- one a long time employee and one a transfer…
Both suffer from trauma and needs to start over and this is where their journey begins- at a Gay nightclub… in Lafayette…
A redemption story with all the feels and emotions done the Eve Riley way!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Oh the feels with the third book in the series!
A low angst love story about redemption, forgiveness and self acceptance showcasing inner homophobia with back flashes to childhood bullying trauma!
A bully and his victim cross paths fifteen years later at the same fire station in Baton Rouge- one a long time employee and one a transfer…
Both suffer from trauma and needs to start over and this is where their journey begins- at a Gay nightclub… in Lafayette…
A redemption story with all the feels and emotions done the Eve Riley way!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 20, 2024
3,5/4- *
This series is a nice repast with, aa often qith Eve, social issue. as a backdrop. Thia time it ia bullying all throughout achool. Jase is the bullied party in a town/ high school which is highly religiously charged.
Quinn has been one of the bullies who has turned his life around and comes to work at Jase his place of work. I had difficulties with how Jase almost turned his team and himself into bullies for Quinn. After some strubbles at the start they meet in an unlikely place and things turn around for both of them. There is a hfn/ hea and I am looking forward to more.
I kindly received a copy through BookSirens.
This series is a nice repast with, aa often qith Eve, social issue. as a backdrop. Thia time it ia bullying all throughout achool. Jase is the bullied party in a town/ high school which is highly religiously charged.
Quinn has been one of the bullies who has turned his life around and comes to work at Jase his place of work. I had difficulties with how Jase almost turned his team and himself into bullies for Quinn. After some strubbles at the start they meet in an unlikely place and things turn around for both of them. There is a hfn/ hea and I am looking forward to more.
I kindly received a copy through BookSirens.
January 22, 2024
This is a great series of low angst quick read stories about Firemen. This book is about two firemen Quinn who is the sole survivor from his team when a warehouse collapses and Jase who knew Quinn from school as he was bullied by Quinn. When Quinn moves back to Baton Rouge he joins Jase's team and of course they start out as enemies. When they meet up at a gay club on their time off this seems to help them overcome their history and give in to the intense emotional connection that had built up.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 2, 2024
Eve Riley has a real winner in this Smokejumpers series! I was totally caught up in the story. Everything was so vivid. I felt Jase's agony from high school. I felt Quinn's guilt after a devastating fire. There is so much emotion, you can't help but fall in love right along with Kase and Quinn. Yes, there is danger. There is also redemption. And don't get me started on the sexy times… Wow! I did not want to put this book down. You must get it. You are sure to enjoy it as much as I did. Thank you, Eve, for another great book. I can't wait for the next in the series.
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