Dawson: An MM Enemies To Lovers Romance

Jasper Springs

by Evie Riley

Things are heating up in Jasper Springs…

Dawson Richards is Jasper Springs’s very own famed “Mr. March.” Rescuing people—and cats—is what the hunky firefighter does best. That is, when his infuriating nemesis isn’t throwing a monkey wrench into Dawson’s hard work.

Claims Adjuster Nolan Harding moved to Jasper Springs seeking a fresh start, but after months of working with an annoying but sinfully delicious fireman who drives him crazy, Nolan is nearing the end of his rope.

When a fire hits home for Dawson, he and Nolan must work together to close the case correctly and on time.

Can they put aside their grievances and their undeniable attraction to get the job done? Or will the heat consume their hearts too?

Readers seeking an enemies to lovers romance set in a cozy little town may find this story checks those boxes. While Dawson and Nolan may have cameos in future stories, each book in this series can be read as a standalone.

Genres: M M Romance, Contemporary

290 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 10, 2024

About the author

Evie 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.

Reviews

[Naomi (aplace_inthesun) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dawson is the the second book in the Jasper Springs series. Firefighter Dawson loathes fire investigator Nolan, who has been a thorn in his side for two years. They just don’t see eye to eye and are constantly at odds.

But the pair find themselves changing their views when having to work more closely together and it’s a shock to both of them. There’s a healthy dose of macho-oak to some extent from Dawson, and some underlying narrative about what it is to be ‘manly’ but where these two struggle is in their communication at times which dims the sparkle of this book a tad.

There’s alot to like about Nolan particularly and I could love with Dawson saying ‘champ’ all the time (just) … in Australian slang that isn’t always an endearment and can be a bit facetious so it depends how you want to take it I guess.

Can’t wait to see what’s next in the series!

[InsatiableSuccubooks · Rating 3 out of 5]

I really enjoyed the premise of this book but it fell a little flat for me. It relied heavily on the characters not communicating or communicating poorly, with several scenes of one storming off before the other could explain what they meant. That got frustrating to read over and over. They were very immature in that regard and I prefer more emotionally intelligent characters, OR a strong arc of development where they learn how to better communicate.

It also relied heavily on the physical attraction and sexual tension between the guys for the love story, and didn't spend enough time, in my opinion, of them getting to know each other's personalities. I don't feel like we really got to see their compatibility outside of the bedroom.

There was also some moments that really required suspension of disbelief. A story doesn't need to be realistic, but it does need to be believable. For me, the idea that a fire could affect two stories but the the story above is still liveable is too far a stretch.

It also redid big emotional beats more than once. The MCs tell us multiple times that they're falling in love, and each time it's like they're just realizing it, even though two chapters ago they already had the realization.

There were some really nice moments and a few passages I highlighted for the perspective they gave. The hot scenes were definitely hot, although the solo scenes in the first quarter of the book were too frequent for me, personally. The setting and supporting cast all felt well developed and grounded the story by making it feel more real.

Overall, I think with some editing this could be a really fun and sexy little story. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Bol.D. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dawson and Nolan: how to get from arch nemesis to lover
Tags: opposites attract, amusing, uplifting, heartwarming, easy to read, feel good, steamy, stand-alone, no cliffhanger.
This enjoyable, entertaining, easy-to-read book is about two opposites forced to work together despite being an arch-nemesis. The story will keep you entertained and engaged with high tension between the main characters, resulting in amusing and witty banter and inner dialogs while Nolan and Dawson embark on a journey of discovering and accepting their underlying feelings and attraction to each other.
Dawson is a firefighter, bold and confident, attractive, charismatic, and utterly annoyed by Nolan from the day they met: "He was, in fact, the kryptonite to my Superman, the Joker to my Batman. He was my arch nemesis."
As his polar opposite, Nolan is an insurance agent, shy, a nerd, and a loner with self-esteem issues. Eloquent and vivid writing and a fast-paced narrative with twists and turns peppered with witty dialog make this novel worthy of reading for laughs, and feel-good feelings.
I loved Dawson and Nolan step by step transformation from hate to tension and attraction, finally culminating in love: "and I lived in that kiss for a hundred years."
This feel-good and uplifting novel will make the day for readers enjoying sweet and straightforward romance and equally for fans of darker, complex stories. We all need a dose of sunshine and relaxation occasionally, regardless of our literary preferences.
Disclaimer: I received an ARC of this book. This review is an independent and genuine reflection of my thoughts.

[Naito Diamond · Rating 4 out of 5]

Having read the previous book in the Jasper Springs series, I was eager to dive into "Dawson" by Eve Riley, especially considering Dawson's role as a close friend of Cade the main character from the first book. The seamless continuity of the series allowed for a delightful reunion with Cade and his LI, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to the reading experience.

At the heart of "Dawson" lies the captivating dynamic between firefighter Dawson and fire investigator Nolan, who couldn't be more different. Dawson exudes confidence and flamboyance, while Nolan is portrayed as nerdy and analytical. Despite their contrasting personalities, they share a penchant for getting under each other's skin, leading to a series of entertaining misunderstandings and challenges that gradually reveal deeper layers to their connection.

The gradual transition from enemies to lovers is the highlight of this book. I particularly enjoyed the fidgeting and hesitation displayed by both characters as they struggle with their growing attachment to each other. While the shift in their relationship might feel abrupt at times, the underlying emotional depth adds substance to their journey.

The initial reasons for their animosity towards each other could have been explored more thoroughly, nevertheless, "Dawson" remains a lighthearted and enjoyable read, perfect for lazy summer days spent at the beach. With its engaging characters, playful banter, and heartwarming romance, this book is sure to leave readers smiling.

[Tony Farnden · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dawson is an enemy to lovers romance based in Jasper Springs and concerns fire fighter Dawson Richards and insurance claims adjuster Nolan Harding. The two guys have been at each other’s throats for the last two years while secretly lusting after each other. Nolan is rather nit-picking and Dawson is loud and too sure of himself but maybe not that good at putting in fire insurance claim reports. Nolan just wants everything to go smoothly so he constantly picks Dawson up on his reports.

This comes to a head when Dawson’s brother has a fire at his home. Things would seem to be getting worse when another fire makes them both take a step back and be honest with each other.

Other than some somewhat excessive effing and jeffing this is a fun read with some hot moments and some brilliant verbal sparring as the two guys work out their differences and head towards their happy ending via the bedroom. It is an insightful exploration of two different character types and how a brash public face can hide a sensitive soul. The eye colours of the two characters seem to play a rather large part and the fact that they seem to be interchangeable between the two guys confused me a little. It would seem I’m just as nit-picking as Nolan. What I need is Dawson of my own. It’s probably better to keep him between the pages than the sheets.

A great second book to the Jasper Springs series.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Anne Harris · Rating 5 out of 5]

Enemies to lovers
I’ve got to say I thoroughly enjoyed this book and I really liked Dawson and Nolan. The banter between these two was just exciting to me. These two didn’t get off to the best of starts, but when Nolan helps Dawson’s brothers with his compensation claim (when he had a fire) Dawson started to see a different side of Nolan. Nolan found Dawson sexy. He had seen him in the calendar as Mr March, and then lusting after him ever since quietly, so no one noticed, including Dawson.
One day, Nolan went for a run, and who should he see on that path Dawson? And he makes a bet to see who finishes first. And the loser has to buy the other dinner. Well, Nolan won, so Dawson decides that he’s going to take Nolan out on the best night and really spoil him. And this might changes everything.
But honestly the banter was just electric it’s like Dawson never answers a question he has to tease and frustrate Nolan. I just thoroughly enjoyed these two honestly
I think it’s safe to say these two have got some chemistry literally. Woohooooo it’s exciting. They both need confidence to see that they have something to give to each other. I really enjoyed their story and can see me reading it book over and over.
Looking forward to the next book in the series called Drew. Thoroughly enjoying this series so far.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Laora · Rating 3 out of 5]

For me this was a harder book to read and finish in the series. I really did not connect to one of the main charcters, Dawson. So forgive me if my review is a bit more coloured than I normally am prone to do. I appreciate the time and effort the author spends to create a book and like to acknowledge that. The enemies to lovers trope can be hit or miss for me and this one leans to the miss. However if this is your jam I think you might rate it higher. So yeah an unusual 3 since I can't make it 3,5* on this platform.

Over all the storyline is good, however sometimes I felt certain details (like the claims issues and why the heck does the brother/ firefighter gets involved when his job is done, brother or not) was mentioned to much and other details disappeared ( Nolan his perceived promotion). On the plus I liked Nolan showing that he is no pushover and he has a spine.

Ofcourse these men find their hea/ hfn with the other, but boy did I want to slap especially Dawson upside his head to get his said head out of his a** and see what is in front of him and stop comparing to his past partner who used to work at the same company as his new love interest.

This book is part of series but can be read as a standalone,, the different volumes have different MM tropes.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Marion · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is the second book in the Jasper Springs series but it can be enjoyed as a standalone. This is an enemies to lovers story. The main characters are Dawson Richards and Nolan Harding. Dawson is a big hearted and dedicated firefighter. His friends like to chirp him because he is Mr. March in the charity calendar. Nolan is a claims adjuster who likes order and is shy. He and Dawson unfortunately have to work together quite a bit. For the past two years, those two have attempted to get on each other's last nerve. Dawson often attempts to steamroller over Nolan and in person he is able to do that. But on the phone, Nolan's shyness is not so strong and he gives as good as he gets from Dawson. The difference in behaviour is surprising to Dawson. After a fire and a race, the two finally start to actually get to know each other. This is their story. The book is written well and is easy to read. I didn't get as invested in this book as book one. I found that the two of them didn't really interact with many townspeople. And sometimes I found their behaviour to be bordering on childish. But over all, I enjoyed this book.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Toni · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dawson Richard is Mr. March in a calendar. He's out with friends until his arch nemesis wins bingo. He leaves. He had to spend a lot of time with the idiot while working on his claims. He's been fantasizing about Nolan since he showed in town a few months back. He just can't stand the guy. There's something about him that rubs him the wrong way.
Claims Adjuster Nolan Harding wins bingo! Yay! Then runs into Dawson, the firefighter. The man he's been fantasizing about for months.He just turned 28 and lives an orderly and safe life. Who would want that?
The two men are so totally different that it's like climbing uphill. The only thing going for the two of them is their attraction to each other.
Two men who aren't looking for any type of love because one doesn't think it's in the cards for him. The other may be afraid to even consider it. Will they get their act together in time before it's too late?
A beautiful love story!
These two men are so polar opposite they might not be on the same planet. But they are thrust together time and time again because of the fires.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[DJ McCready · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the second in the Jasper Springs Series. I found it quite an easy read and better than the first book in the series.

Nolan, an insurance adjuster has to deal with Dawson, a fireman who coordinates with insurance companies. They find each other difficult to get along with and yet have an underlying appreciation for each other. Nolan, a nerd admires Dawson (Mr March in the Fireman; Calendar) but believes he could never be enough to win Dawson.

One comment I will make is that it is unclear why Nolan feels he is not good enough (there is not enough background), nor is there enough background on why Dawson has never considered settling down.

The plot is well-developed, particularly after they run a race in the woods ( a private woods that they both have access to because of where they live). Before, how did they live in the same building for two years without ever having come in contact there?

I received an ARC copy of this book from a third party with the promise of an honest review.

[Rachel · Rating 3 out of 5]

A firefighter and an insurance adjuster make for a potentially flaming romance, but Dawson and Nolan have been hating on each other for 2 years. But they are also attracted to each other. They have a date after big tough Dawson loses a race to the lighter, faster Nolan. They are both so infatuated, but misunderstanding ensues, and it takes Nolan being rescued from a fire in his building by Dawson for them to admit how they feel—their dynamic shifts back and forth sexually, which is interesting. However, I had to push to finish the book because of the overuse of some words and the generally sloppy writing construction. This is distracting. It would have also been a much better story if they had discussed their past relationships and families and interacted more with their friends. We know what they are thinking, but they don't say it to each other.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Donna · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars

The blurb sets up the story very well. For two years, Dawson and Nolan have been antagonistic with each other, smart remark, insults, setting each other off with little or no provocation, while both secretly attracted to each other and headlining their spank banks. Dawson may flirt with Nolan, but Nolan isn’t as quick with the comebacks. Things change when they both end up on a trail in their complex, and Dawson challenges Nolan to a race, the winner to buy the other dinner. Everything they thought and felt about the other is proving to not be true or is incomplete. Will they pursue the changes or not? Only time, and an unexpected event will tell where they end up.

Likable characters, realistic scenario and events making for an entertaining back and forth on the way to a HEA.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[C.B. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hot and spicy! Dawson, is Jasper Spring’s hunky Firefighter, the man dreams are made of. He likes to serve and protect those in need. Nolan, claims adjuster is relatively new to Jasper Springs. He is kept on his toes by Dawson whom he finds annoying like an itch you can’t find and delicious simultaneously. The men spend their time throwing darts at each other, with some really good hits while secretly lusting after each other. Nolan and Dawson are forced to work together and get to spend time getting to know each other better personally and professionally.. They each are dragging a bit of baggage. Dawson and Nolan are nice guys and I wish there was a bit more character development. Nice flow, could have been a little faster, but nice and smexy still. Great cover art, excellent addition to Jasper Springs family, well done! I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Mommysuz · Rating 5 out of 5]

5+ read
This is the 2nd book in the Jasper Springs series. I loved it just as much as the first. Dawson, a confident firefighter and Nolan, a not so confident fire adjuster, do not like each other, haven't since the first day two years ago.  Nolan thought he would make friends when he moved to Jasper Springs. That wasn't the case. All he did was work. Nolan and Dawson's relationship started on a bet. These two were adorable. Nolan, though, is just the cutiest. I love these books. They have a little drama, but they are just the sweetest small town stories. Can't wait to jump into Drew's story.

These are standalone. However, you would love the first book in the series.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Shawna · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved Dawson: Book 2 of Jasper Springs. Dawson loves to torment Nolan. Their jobs put them together more than he would like and anything he can do to make Nolan’s job harder he does. Until one night a little flirting and a close encounter have them reconsidering their feelings. One race later leads to one dinner date and then one fire changes everything. It’s time for them to confront their feelings and see if they can have a future. Misunderstandings lead to fighting and things maybe over sooner than they thought. I loved the storyline and the characters. Two years of chemistry may cause quite the eruption. 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.

[Mir Jak · Rating 3 out of 5]

"… and I melted into him like an ice cube on the sidewalk on the Fourth of July."

Love small town settings and I loved how the MC's sniped at each other….and rub each other the wrong way …..but after that dinner…..it was sooo all the right way, hehehehehe. I really felt for Nolan, poor guy and just when he thinks "finally"….nope. And Dawson …… his right is not quite….right….. The only thing was their banter (bratty/not bratty) - it was very hot'n'cold and I had to re-read some bits to get back on track. There is a slight kink to the story..and seemed to be vers, which I've not come across. Other than that, I thought it was a great story - love small town settings with friends/found family vibe

[Sara Sigler · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dawson is a firefighter and Mr. March in the firefighter’s calendar and felt Nolan the claims adjuster was a pain because when Nolan did a claim he made sure everything was done correctly. His brother had a fire told Nolan to get the claim done but the company had an issue with the internet and had to redo it he found the real reason. When Nolan was running he ran into Dawson they had a race the winner took the other out to dinner, Dawson thought he would win. Dawson realized that they really wanted the same thing, one night a fire started in their apartment building Dawson was able to get down to Nolan’s apartment and get him out. Good book!

[Emilyrose · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked the enemies to lovers trope of the book and I felt that the pace was good from start to finish. It was also good to see how Dawson and Nolan's chemistry finally ignited and I enjoyed getting to know Nolan much more too. Some parts of their relationship, particularly the sudden change from enemies on Dawson's side seemed to be a little flat; it wasn't wholly believable that he suddenly saw the light and realised what a great guy Nolan actually was. I did find the plot engaging though and I enjoyed their HEA too. Overall, another good read in the series and I'm looking forward to book 3.

I received an ARC and this is my honest review.

[Tamarae · Rating 5 out of 5]

Eve Riley has done it again with Dawson, a MM romance featuring Dawson a hunky firefighter. Mr. March as he is known by some, Dawn spends his days fighting fires, rescuing kittens and handling his business. That is until Nolan Harding shows up in his life to resolve claims on the fire destroyed properties. Nolan wants to do his job but cannot stand Dawson.

This novel follows the enemies to lovers trope and it is absolutely amazing! The heat, and friction between the characters is top notch and them the passion between them when they leave the negativity behind is Hot!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily!

[stardragon · Rating 5 out of 5]

For two years Dawson a firefighter and Nolan an insurance adjuster have irritated each other over paperwork. Dawson who is featured in the annual calendar as Mr March, is frustrated because every report he files the insurance adjuster questions. Nolan is an introvert but Dawson gets under his skin, it isn’t his reports are wrong just some items missing or in the wrong place, but the animosity is there. They both live in the same apartment complex, different floors. Things between them change when there is a fire in the complex. Definitely a good read, full of miscommunication, steam and happy endings.

[R · Rating 3 out of 5]

Dawson just wants infuriating Nolan to go away. Nolan just doesn’t get Mr. March (firefighter calendar). They spark off each other with regularity. They just didn’t realize they were flirting.

This was an easy story to read. Some drama and some hot times. I liked both characters. Dawson was overbearing at times and Nolan (in the beginning) came across as kind of wimpy. They did even out eventually. The fire fighter/insurance adjuster aspect created the only real conflict in the book. The book was mostly them. They did go from active dislike to love fairly rapidly. Other characters seemed basically on the peripheral in the story.

I enjoyed this book.

I received an arc of this book.

[Roger R · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great 2nd book in the Jasper Springs series by Eve Riley. I love these small town type of M/M stories. I’ve come to really appreciate Eve Riley’s writing style. I haven’t read one that I didn’t like. I’d give this one a 5 stars reading.
This one focuses on Dawson, a firefighter who can’t stand Nolan who is a claims adjuster. They love to push each other’s buttons. But something happened to Dawson’s brother’s house. Dawson had to put up with Nolan because Nolan was the claim adjuster for this one. That doesn’t make anything easier, right? I’ll just have to stop and have you pick up the book and read to find out what happens with the claims.

[Lea Gesser · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book 2, Jasper Springs, the story of Dawson and Nolan. Dawson is a firefighter who is doing well as an involuntary bachelor. According to him. He wants stability, but is also afraid to make that connection. Until he meets Nolan, his Nemesis. They don't really seek each other out, but when they meet it's really fireworks. I thought it was a beautiful story, also believable. There are also characters from book 1 in this book, but they support the story. We are all insecure and want to appear good. But exposing our hearts also takes courage. Recommended reading

[Cindy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was hot! Dawson is a firefighter, a calendar pin up, a gorgeous guy anyone would want. And Nolan, a claims adjuster does. But they strike sparks and irritate each other until their feelings burst into flames. When Dawson tries to do it right, Nolan takes it as a rejection. They are hot one minute and cold and fighting the next but that enemies to lovers gets you going. I liked Dawson in control but not so sure with the switch up. I received a copy of this book through Booksirens and this is my honest opinion.

[Siu Lum · Rating 4 out of 5]

It is not your usual enemies to lovers story since Dawson and Nolan are not enemies. They definitely clash and do things to irk each other.

It was interesting how one encounter can change how you can view a person. As soon as Dawson starts to gets glimpses of Nolan's other qualities, he couldn't stop thinking about him.

I enjoyed reading how they both try to overcome misconceptions, their own negative thoughts to move forward together.

Thank you BookSirens for the e-ARC. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Deb Kel · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this "feel good" story with Dawson and Nolan. A opposites attract trope that is just so well written and enjoyable. So much tension between them when they are forced to work together but so really great banter and funny moments as they try to hide their growing attraction to each other. With plenty of action in the plot to keep you engrossed and completely hooked until the end you will honestly be glad you read it!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Natasha Tucker · Rating 5 out of 5]

Firefighter, Dawson, is constantly at odds with insurance investigator, Nolan. Nolan is in love with Dawson but doesn’t think Dawson likes him. Dawson’s feelings for Nolan are much more complex. Things come to a head when Nolan helps Dawson out sorting out a fire at his brother’s house. They soon start to realise they have much more in common than they thought. Sweet, steamy story with amazing chemistry, fun, laughter, a little bit of kink and a wonderful HEA.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Any Length · Rating 3 out of 5]

ok book, but I found it hard to connect with either of the characters. They felt inconsistent and both behaved like asses with attitude and were unwilling to be honest and kept back information that would have their relationship easier.
The back ground story of the fires in both Dawson's brother's house/shop (it was unclear) as well as the fire in their apartment building was insufficiently dealt with.

[PN_booklover · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the second book in this series and I enjoyed it more than the first. The story of Dawson and Nolan is a enemies to lovers type trope. Dawson finds Nolan irritating and is quite mean and judgemental in the beginning. Nolan secretly crushes on Dawson despite him not being civil. However, sparks do fly and it's fun to see them finally be loving towards each other.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[T Paul · Rating 4 out of 5]

An exciting enemies to forever after. Dawson and Nolan had some real chemistry, real heat between them. Their journey began rather heatedly and continued the same way just in a happier vein. The story had ups and downs and they were equally entertaining. The book was an easy and enjoyable reading. A HeA brought the story to a conclusion beautifully.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.