What do you think?
Rate this book
Redwood Bay Fire #1
Igniting His Flame
Love makes us all brave
DARIO
After escaping my controlling ex-boyfriend and moving to Redwood Bay, I swear off men for good. The only company I need is my new rescue dog, Queenie. Meeting gorgeous firefighter Lochlan Bell at puppy training class doesn’t count because he’s straight, yet for some bizarre reason he’s decided to become my friend. When he suggests pretending to be my boyfriend for Thanksgiving to stop my concerned family from worrying about me, the lines start to blur. Even if Lochlan suddenly realizes he likes men, though, he’d never be into a nerd like me. Right?
LOCHLAN
Who knew that pulling a trembling puppy from a burning building would lead to meeting my new best friend? Dario Garcia-Perez is so cool and smart, I’m surprised he puts up with a dumb jock like me. But I can tell he’s running from something that hurt him real bad. Or someone. It takes me way too long to realize that all these protective feelings I have for him might mean something else. Something more. Something amazing. Just as we start getting closer, though, Dario’s past comes back to haunt him. The difference now is that he has me, and I’m not going anywhere.
Igniting His Flame is a red-hot, standalone MM romance. It’s the first book in the found family Redwood Bay Fire series. Join the members of the One-Thirteen house as the heat turns up and they find true love! This book features a completely oblivious bisexual himbo, two four-legged best friends, a childhood bedroom with only one bed, a shared obsession with all things sci-fi, a disaster at the amusement park, an ex with a dangerous vendetta, and a guaranteed HEA with absolutely no cliffhanger.
Content This book deals with a past domestic abuse situation between Dario and his ex. No violence occurs on page.
DARIO
After escaping my controlling ex-boyfriend and moving to Redwood Bay, I swear off men for good. The only company I need is my new rescue dog, Queenie. Meeting gorgeous firefighter Lochlan Bell at puppy training class doesn’t count because he’s straight, yet for some bizarre reason he’s decided to become my friend. When he suggests pretending to be my boyfriend for Thanksgiving to stop my concerned family from worrying about me, the lines start to blur. Even if Lochlan suddenly realizes he likes men, though, he’d never be into a nerd like me. Right?
LOCHLAN
Who knew that pulling a trembling puppy from a burning building would lead to meeting my new best friend? Dario Garcia-Perez is so cool and smart, I’m surprised he puts up with a dumb jock like me. But I can tell he’s running from something that hurt him real bad. Or someone. It takes me way too long to realize that all these protective feelings I have for him might mean something else. Something more. Something amazing. Just as we start getting closer, though, Dario’s past comes back to haunt him. The difference now is that he has me, and I’m not going anywhere.
Igniting His Flame is a red-hot, standalone MM romance. It’s the first book in the found family Redwood Bay Fire series. Join the members of the One-Thirteen house as the heat turns up and they find true love! This book features a completely oblivious bisexual himbo, two four-legged best friends, a childhood bedroom with only one bed, a shared obsession with all things sci-fi, a disaster at the amusement park, an ex with a dangerous vendetta, and a guaranteed HEA with absolutely no cliffhanger.
Content This book deals with a past domestic abuse situation between Dario and his ex. No violence occurs on page.
271 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 25, 2025
131 people are currently reading
203 people want to read
About the author
H.J. Welch
41 books291 followersHJ Welch is a British author of contemporary American MM small town series and books in multi authored shared universes, including the international number one bestselling Homecoming Hearts. She lives just outside of London with her husband and three balls of fluff that occasionally pretend to be cats.
She began writing at an early age, later honing her craft online in the world of fanfiction on sites like Wattpad. Fifteen years and over half a million words later, she sought out original MM novels to read. By the end of 2016 she had written her first book of her own, and in 2017 she achieved her lifelong dream of becoming a full-time author.
When she’s not writing she’s usually dancing, singing, filming music videos, taking long walks, working on jigsaw puzzles, drinking prosecco, or talking about Eurovision.
She also writes contemporary British MM fairy tale adaptation as Helen Juliet, including bestsellers Thorn in His Side, A Right Royal Affair, and Three.
She began writing at an early age, later honing her craft online in the world of fanfiction on sites like Wattpad. Fifteen years and over half a million words later, she sought out original MM novels to read. By the end of 2016 she had written her first book of her own, and in 2017 she achieved her lifelong dream of becoming a full-time author.
When she’s not writing she’s usually dancing, singing, filming music videos, taking long walks, working on jigsaw puzzles, drinking prosecco, or talking about Eurovision.
She also writes contemporary British MM fairy tale adaptation as Helen Juliet, including bestsellers Thorn in His Side, A Right Royal Affair, and Three.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 130 reviews
March 26, 2025
⭐️ 4 stars ⭐️
TROPES:
🐾 Firefighter MC
🐾 Friends to lovers
🐾 Queer awakening
🐾 Hurt/comfort
🐾 Fake boyfriend
🐾 Dogs
🐾 Found family
Between puppy play dates and dog training, Dario and Lochlan develop a lovely friendship. And maybe more, if Dario can move on from the shadows of his past, and if Lochlan wasn’t straight.
Igniting His Flame was super fluffy and wholesome. I mean PUPPIES. The dogs were the cutest, Queenie a bossbitch, and the vibes of this simple romance were just fluff and love.
This read was very comforting and gave me all the warm feels. Lachlan was just pure golden retriever and so gentle with Dario.
The ending was very cheesy and OTT, but I wasn’t really expecting anything different.
It wasn’t perfect and it probably wouldn’t survive a reread, but it put a smile on my face all throughout, and you really can’t go wrong with a bunch of cute puppies.
CW and NSFW info (spoilers):
- Domestic abuse (off page, not between MCs)
- Top/bottom
- Smaller top
- Frotting
- Rimming
I know I’m trying to keep a lid on my crush here, but it’s impossible for my heart not to ache with longing as I watch this big, muscular firefighter use baby talk as he gently lifts each dog down to place them on the ground, holding their leashes delicately so they don’t strain and choke themselves.
TROPES:
🐾 Firefighter MC
🐾 Friends to lovers
🐾 Queer awakening
🐾 Hurt/comfort
🐾 Fake boyfriend
🐾 Dogs
🐾 Found family
Between puppy play dates and dog training, Dario and Lochlan develop a lovely friendship. And maybe more, if Dario can move on from the shadows of his past, and if Lochlan wasn’t straight.
Igniting His Flame was super fluffy and wholesome. I mean PUPPIES. The dogs were the cutest, Queenie a bossbitch, and the vibes of this simple romance were just fluff and love.
I just wish he was mine to keep.
This read was very comforting and gave me all the warm feels. Lachlan was just pure golden retriever and so gentle with Dario.
The ending was very cheesy and OTT, but I wasn’t really expecting anything different.
It wasn’t perfect and it probably wouldn’t survive a reread, but it put a smile on my face all throughout, and you really can’t go wrong with a bunch of cute puppies.
Now I know what love truly is, I’m never going to let it go.
CW and NSFW info (spoilers):
- Domestic abuse (off page, not between MCs)
- Top/bottom
- Smaller top
- Frotting
- Rimming
April 7, 2025
Book safety, content warnings, and tropes down below.
This was super sweet and fun. It had a great
mix of a low- angst sweet romance, past trauma, and a bit of action. It held my attention through most of it, and all the doggy bits were cute (actual dogs).
Loved the dynamic between the MCs, with the smaller MC feeling safe enough to boss his big, beefy, himbo firefighter around in bed. And said himbo golden retriever was an absolute sweetheart. I love an uncomplicated bisexual awakening.
⬇️ Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & content tags ⚠️
Firefighter
Awful ex
Dog dad
Fake relationship
Sexual awakening
Jock/nerd
Golden retriever
Himbo firefighter
Only one bed
Redhead MC
Strangers to friends to lovers
Size difference
⚠️ Content warning ⚠️
Dog rescued from burning building (not injured)
Alcohol consumption
Domestic abuse (past, manipulation, physical, gaslighting, isolation — between MC and ex)
Explicit sexual content
Mention of multiple injuries — minor characters
⚠️Book safety ⚠️
Cheating: No
Other person drama: Evil ex comes back and is evil, but no real OM drama.
Breakup: No
POV: 1st person, dual
Genre: Contemporary romance
Pairing: M/M
Strict roles or versatile: Strict roles
Main characters’ age: 28 and 33
Series: Interconnected standalone
Kindle Unlimited: Yes
Pages: 271
Happy ending: Yes
Most people run away from burning buildings, not into them. But I’m not most people. Also, I’m kind of a dumbass.
I’d rather be friends and suffer pining after him than not have him at all.
“Please listen to me as your bisexual elder.” “You’re like… six years younger than me,” I point out. She scowls at me. “Yeah, but I’m really, really bisexual, so shut up and listen.
I was a total jackass for not realizing he had feelings for me earlier and then fucking with those feelings by pretending to be his boyfriend in front of his family. But I was even more of a dummy not to realize that I wasn’t faking anything at all, not from the moment we met.
You can find most of my reviews on Instagram as well: https://www.instagram.com/booksafety?...
This was super sweet and fun. It had a great
mix of a low- angst sweet romance, past trauma, and a bit of action. It held my attention through most of it, and all the doggy bits were cute (actual dogs).
Loved the dynamic between the MCs, with the smaller MC feeling safe enough to boss his big, beefy, himbo firefighter around in bed. And said himbo golden retriever was an absolute sweetheart. I love an uncomplicated bisexual awakening.
⬇️ Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & content tags ⚠️
Firefighter
Awful ex
Dog dad
Fake relationship
Sexual awakening
Jock/nerd
Golden retriever
Himbo firefighter
Only one bed
Redhead MC
Strangers to friends to lovers
Size difference
⚠️ Content warning ⚠️
Dog rescued from burning building (not injured)
Alcohol consumption
Domestic abuse (past, manipulation, physical, gaslighting, isolation — between MC and ex)
Explicit sexual content
Mention of multiple injuries — minor characters
⚠️Book safety ⚠️
Cheating: No
Other person drama: Evil ex comes back and is evil, but no real OM drama.
Breakup: No
POV: 1st person, dual
Genre: Contemporary romance
Pairing: M/M
Strict roles or versatile: Strict roles
Main characters’ age: 28 and 33
Series: Interconnected standalone
Kindle Unlimited: Yes
Pages: 271
Happy ending: Yes
Most people run away from burning buildings, not into them. But I’m not most people. Also, I’m kind of a dumbass.
I’d rather be friends and suffer pining after him than not have him at all.
“Please listen to me as your bisexual elder.” “You’re like… six years younger than me,” I point out. She scowls at me. “Yeah, but I’m really, really bisexual, so shut up and listen.
I was a total jackass for not realizing he had feelings for me earlier and then fucking with those feelings by pretending to be his boyfriend in front of his family. But I was even more of a dummy not to realize that I wasn’t faking anything at all, not from the moment we met.
You can find most of my reviews on Instagram as well: https://www.instagram.com/booksafety?...
March 26, 2025
Honestly I was sold from the opening line:
“𝙈𝙤𝙨𝙩 𝙥𝙚𝙤𝙥𝙡𝙚 𝙧𝙪𝙣 𝙖𝙬𝙖𝙮 𝙛𝙧𝙤𝙢 𝙗𝙪𝙧𝙣𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙗𝙪𝙞𝙡𝙙𝙞𝙣𝙜𝙨, 𝙣𝙤𝙩 𝙞𝙣𝙩𝙤 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙢. 𝘽𝙪𝙩 𝙄’𝙢 𝙣𝙤𝙩 𝙢𝙤𝙨𝙩 𝙥𝙚𝙤𝙥𝙡𝙚. 𝘼𝙡𝙨𝙤, 𝙄’𝙢 𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙙 𝙤𝙛 𝙖 𝙙𝙪𝙢𝙗𝙖𝙨𝙨.”
& hooked even further when chapter two had me crying.
Lochland and Dario are just too adorable for words, and I loved their sweet friendship (and eventual relationship).
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️.75
Spice: 🌶️
- firefighter + computer programmer
- friends to lovers
- fake dating
- found family
- only one bed
- queer awakening
CW: mentions of abuse, stalker/abusive ex boyfriend
“𝙈𝙤𝙨𝙩 𝙥𝙚𝙤𝙥𝙡𝙚 𝙧𝙪𝙣 𝙖𝙬𝙖𝙮 𝙛𝙧𝙤𝙢 𝙗𝙪𝙧𝙣𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙗𝙪𝙞𝙡𝙙𝙞𝙣𝙜𝙨, 𝙣𝙤𝙩 𝙞𝙣𝙩𝙤 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙢. 𝘽𝙪𝙩 𝙄’𝙢 𝙣𝙤𝙩 𝙢𝙤𝙨𝙩 𝙥𝙚𝙤𝙥𝙡𝙚. 𝘼𝙡𝙨𝙤, 𝙄’𝙢 𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙙 𝙤𝙛 𝙖 𝙙𝙪𝙢𝙗𝙖𝙨𝙨.”
& hooked even further when chapter two had me crying.
Lochland and Dario are just too adorable for words, and I loved their sweet friendship (and eventual relationship).
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️.75
Spice: 🌶️
- firefighter + computer programmer
- friends to lovers
- fake dating
- found family
- only one bed
- queer awakening
CW: mentions of abuse, stalker/abusive ex boyfriend
March 25, 2025
First, I’ll start by saying that I just loved the opening line:
“Most people run away from burning buildings, not into them. But I’m not most people. Also, I’m kind of a dumbass.” 🤣
Second, this was SO SWEET!!
This books had everything:
- 2 reçue dogs
- 1 MC with a golden retriever energy so almost 3 dogs 😆
- Found families
- The “fake boyfriends to reassure the parents” trope but it’s really short and not the whole book (I hate when this trope goes on for too long because it can be ridiculous but here it was the perfect dose)
- A new start in life after escaping an abusive assh*le
- And one of my favourite things: 2 adorable geeks! When we learn that both characters share a love for sci-fi geeky worlds I was in! I love positive geeky representation and I especially love this quote: “It’s like Dario and I have our own special language. I don’t have to explain that Ewoks are from Star Wars. He just knows.” It’s so true when you meet someone who doesn’t just like something you love but obsesses about it as much as you do, it feels like you speak the same language. It’s a very freeing experience IMO where you’re not being judged or made fun of for being too passionate about something fictional.
- Also, to stay on the geeky thing, any book that mentions Doctor Who (in a positive way) is always a big plus for me as it’s my favourite show and I love imagining those fictional book characters loving on my favourite fictional Timelord!
I have a tendency to fall in love with the cute lovable himbo character so there were a bunch of scenes where Lochlan had me go all “awww, so cute!”and I’d like to thank him for that because those always make me happy.
Also I want to note how lucky Dario is to have a friend who’s so eager to help him, he’s happy to practise holding hands before meeting the family. I mean, we all know holding hands is hard stuff so I’m glad Lochlan was here to help and made sure they knew how to do it ahead. 😜
This was not this author’s kinkiest or sexiest book, but it was really sweet and the sex scenes still had some heat and some surprises which I loved!
Their first kiss scene was so cute I melted!
Of course now I want to see the other firefighters’ books. They’re a fun weird family!
Thanks to the author for the ARC 💙💙
Some quotes that I loved:
““Did you always want to be a firefighter?”
“Oh, hell no,” I inform him with a wink. “I was gonna be Batman. When my pa told me that probably wasn’t gonna happen, I sulked for like a month.”
”“This one’s a keeper.” I blush, but she moves on before I can fumble for a reply, so I don’t have to come up with one. Just smile bashfully as she grins at me from over the fire pit. I know he is, I think privately, where my secrets are safe. I just wish he was mine to keep.”
“Most people run away from burning buildings, not into them. But I’m not most people. Also, I’m kind of a dumbass.” 🤣
Second, this was SO SWEET!!
This books had everything:
- 2 reçue dogs
- 1 MC with a golden retriever energy so almost 3 dogs 😆
- Found families
- The “fake boyfriends to reassure the parents” trope but it’s really short and not the whole book (I hate when this trope goes on for too long because it can be ridiculous but here it was the perfect dose)
- A new start in life after escaping an abusive assh*le
- And one of my favourite things: 2 adorable geeks! When we learn that both characters share a love for sci-fi geeky worlds I was in! I love positive geeky representation and I especially love this quote: “It’s like Dario and I have our own special language. I don’t have to explain that Ewoks are from Star Wars. He just knows.” It’s so true when you meet someone who doesn’t just like something you love but obsesses about it as much as you do, it feels like you speak the same language. It’s a very freeing experience IMO where you’re not being judged or made fun of for being too passionate about something fictional.
- Also, to stay on the geeky thing, any book that mentions Doctor Who (in a positive way) is always a big plus for me as it’s my favourite show and I love imagining those fictional book characters loving on my favourite fictional Timelord!
I have a tendency to fall in love with the cute lovable himbo character so there were a bunch of scenes where Lochlan had me go all “awww, so cute!”and I’d like to thank him for that because those always make me happy.
Also I want to note how lucky Dario is to have a friend who’s so eager to help him, he’s happy to practise holding hands before meeting the family. I mean, we all know holding hands is hard stuff so I’m glad Lochlan was here to help and made sure they knew how to do it ahead. 😜
This was not this author’s kinkiest or sexiest book, but it was really sweet and the sex scenes still had some heat and some surprises which I loved!
Their first kiss scene was so cute I melted!
Of course now I want to see the other firefighters’ books. They’re a fun weird family!
Thanks to the author for the ARC 💙💙
Some quotes that I loved:
““Did you always want to be a firefighter?”
“Oh, hell no,” I inform him with a wink. “I was gonna be Batman. When my pa told me that probably wasn’t gonna happen, I sulked for like a month.”
”“This one’s a keeper.” I blush, but she moves on before I can fumble for a reply, so I don’t have to come up with one. Just smile bashfully as she grins at me from over the fire pit. I know he is, I think privately, where my secrets are safe. I just wish he was mine to keep.”
March 25, 2025
Omg I love Lochlan such a big sweet marshmallow and all for Dario. My sweet Dario couldn’t catch a break until he meet Lochlan. I love this story a lot and the relationship between these two plus there fur babies. I can’t wait to read book 2!
April 5, 2025
Igniting His Flame is the first book in HJ Welch’s new series Redwood Bay Fire. Here’s what you can expect from Dario and Lochlan:
🐾 MM contemporary romance
🐾 First person dual point of view
🐾 Guaranteed happily ever after
🐾 Oblivious bisexual himbo
🐾 Two four-legged best friends
🐾 A childhood bedroom with only one bed
🐾 A shared obsession with all things sci-fi
🐾 A disaster at the amusement park
🐾 An ex with a dangerous vendetta
🐾 Found family
🐾 Low/medium angst with no cliffhanger
As always, ensure you review the content and trigger warnings to decide if this book is right for you. Note that this list may be incomplete. Please take care of yourself while reading.
This was such a fun and easy read, exactly what I’ve come to expect when reading a lot of HJ Welch and Helen Juliet books! I’ll admit, the blurb for this one drew me right in. I love a book with first-responder characters, and throw in some four-legged best friends? Sold. I really enjoyed the theme of bravery throughout the book. Although this book dealt with a very heavy topic, there wasn’t any violence on page and I thought the author handled it in a way that still makes this a lower angst read.
Dario and Lochlan were such loveable characters! We were promised an oblivious bisexual himbo, and Lochlan absolutely delivered. He was so funny and endearing, and we get to go on his bisexual awakening with him. The poor guy is just about the last person to realize that what he feels for Dario is more than what a protective best friend would feel. I loved Dario’s character from the moment he adopted Queenie and brought her home. Speaking of which, Queenie and Rocky were such perfect side characters and they really rounded out the story (as well as provided us with the fluffiest meet-cute). The spice in this book was great, and I appreciated that despite the action (the blurb was not joking when it hints at an amusement park disaster), it remained an easier read. This book was just super light, fluffy, and would be perfect for balancing out your TBR. I can’t wait to see what adventures the awesome crew at Redwood Bay’s One-Thirteen station get up to next!
I received an advanced reader copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and am voluntarily leaving a review.
🐾 MM contemporary romance
🐾 First person dual point of view
🐾 Guaranteed happily ever after
🐾 Oblivious bisexual himbo
🐾 Two four-legged best friends
🐾 A childhood bedroom with only one bed
🐾 A shared obsession with all things sci-fi
🐾 A disaster at the amusement park
🐾 An ex with a dangerous vendetta
🐾 Found family
🐾 Low/medium angst with no cliffhanger
As always, ensure you review the content and trigger warnings to decide if this book is right for you. Note that this list may be incomplete. Please take care of yourself while reading.
This was such a fun and easy read, exactly what I’ve come to expect when reading a lot of HJ Welch and Helen Juliet books! I’ll admit, the blurb for this one drew me right in. I love a book with first-responder characters, and throw in some four-legged best friends? Sold. I really enjoyed the theme of bravery throughout the book. Although this book dealt with a very heavy topic, there wasn’t any violence on page and I thought the author handled it in a way that still makes this a lower angst read.
Dario and Lochlan were such loveable characters! We were promised an oblivious bisexual himbo, and Lochlan absolutely delivered. He was so funny and endearing, and we get to go on his bisexual awakening with him. The poor guy is just about the last person to realize that what he feels for Dario is more than what a protective best friend would feel. I loved Dario’s character from the moment he adopted Queenie and brought her home. Speaking of which, Queenie and Rocky were such perfect side characters and they really rounded out the story (as well as provided us with the fluffiest meet-cute). The spice in this book was great, and I appreciated that despite the action (the blurb was not joking when it hints at an amusement park disaster), it remained an easier read. This book was just super light, fluffy, and would be perfect for balancing out your TBR. I can’t wait to see what adventures the awesome crew at Redwood Bay’s One-Thirteen station get up to next!
I received an advanced reader copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 8, 2025
Rating: 3.5
Steam: 3
PoV: dual, 1st person
Genre: contemporary romance, MM
Tropes / tags: fake relationship, sexual discovery, slow burn
Igniting His Flame was a very sweet and heartwarming read, and Dario and Lochlan was such an adorable couple!
Lochlan was a firefighter, a himbo and an absolute golden retriever character. I was really fond of him and the way he'd literally do anything to befriend and make Dario happy. It's kind of hard to resist a character that calls himself a dumbass in the opening line... Dario had some past hurt in his baggage - moving to a new town to start over and getting away from his abusive ex. He was a little hesitant at first around Lochlan, but it didn't take long before he developed a crush on him.
It was a fun and sometimes fluffy friends to lovers, with a bit of fake dating / relationship, and a very uncomplicated sexual discovery. Lochlan and Dario were great together, and they made me smile a lot. It was so cute to see how they bonded over being new dog daddies and how they both were looking forward to seeing each other. I didn't expect Dario's bossy side in the bedroom, but I totally loved it!
I really enjoyed this story, it was cute and fluffy while still touching on heavier subjects. The characters were easy to like, and Lochlan's antics were both fun and endearing. It was also easy to feel for Dario and what he'd been through, and his past added some tension and drama to the story. It was overall a low angst romance though, written in the usual HJ Welsh style, and it's a great story for when you want a super sweet small town romance with a touch of hurt / comfort.
-
I received an advanced copy of this book, and these are my honest thoughts and opinions.
Steam: 3
PoV: dual, 1st person
Genre: contemporary romance, MM
Tropes / tags: fake relationship, sexual discovery, slow burn
Igniting His Flame was a very sweet and heartwarming read, and Dario and Lochlan was such an adorable couple!
Lochlan was a firefighter, a himbo and an absolute golden retriever character. I was really fond of him and the way he'd literally do anything to befriend and make Dario happy. It's kind of hard to resist a character that calls himself a dumbass in the opening line... Dario had some past hurt in his baggage - moving to a new town to start over and getting away from his abusive ex. He was a little hesitant at first around Lochlan, but it didn't take long before he developed a crush on him.
It was a fun and sometimes fluffy friends to lovers, with a bit of fake dating / relationship, and a very uncomplicated sexual discovery. Lochlan and Dario were great together, and they made me smile a lot. It was so cute to see how they bonded over being new dog daddies and how they both were looking forward to seeing each other. I didn't expect Dario's bossy side in the bedroom, but I totally loved it!
I really enjoyed this story, it was cute and fluffy while still touching on heavier subjects. The characters were easy to like, and Lochlan's antics were both fun and endearing. It was also easy to feel for Dario and what he'd been through, and his past added some tension and drama to the story. It was overall a low angst romance though, written in the usual HJ Welsh style, and it's a great story for when you want a super sweet small town romance with a touch of hurt / comfort.
-
I received an advanced copy of this book, and these are my honest thoughts and opinions.
March 28, 2025
This was a sweet, low angst and fun read. I adored Lochlan; he’s such a big cinnamon roll and the oblivious energy was high. His fast friendship with Dario was honestly just so sweet, and I think it developed well into Lochlan realising his feelings go deeper. He needed that connection with Dario to come to this realisation and it was a lot of fun along the way. There is a bit of pining from Dario of course (because hot, caring firefighter who is good with puppies alert), but it is not ever really angsty. They have such a great relationship that Dario never feels truly lonely or hurt. The only source of angst is really drama from Dario’s ex but it all ends happily for our MCs I can assure you. Bring on more firefighters please!
Read
March 28, 2025Steamy hot bisexual awakening for an adorable but oblivious himbo and the adorable nerd who he shared a meet-cute with while bonding over their newly acquired four legged friends! Do I really need to say more?
These two adorable men connect, heal and conquer the past while steaming up the pages and I was there for all of it! HJ Welch always writes books you sink into and this one is no exception! I love this new world and I can't wait to see who falls next at the 113!
These two adorable men connect, heal and conquer the past while steaming up the pages and I was there for all of it! HJ Welch always writes books you sink into and this one is no exception! I love this new world and I can't wait to see who falls next at the 113!
April 7, 2025
Quite sweet and fluffy despite some heavier themes. Dario is understandably wary, after having been in an abusive relationship he doesn't trust himself. Lochlan is one of the biggest golden retriever types ever. The dogs were absolutely delightful.
March 25, 2025
Lochlan is a giant golden retriever puppy. He is a big loving himbo with a heart of gold that just barges his way into Dario’s life. The other man almost doesn’t have a chance to say no or to not be his friend. Dario needs a fresh start in a new town but he finds so much more than that. In meeting Lochlan, he finds friends and family, but most importantly he finds love and home.
August 31, 2025
MM/ small town/ friends to lovers/ found family/ OM drama/ HEA
Trigger warning: DV/ abuse/ violence/ animal neglect
I liked this story and the friends to lovers aspect but I wish there were more spicy scenes.
Trigger warning: DV/ abuse/ violence/ animal neglect
I liked this story and the friends to lovers aspect but I wish there were more spicy scenes.
April 15, 2025
DNF @ 50%
Things felt like they progressed to quickly. We got the meet cute, there's a single doggy date, then Lochlan and Dario are suddenly agreeing to fake date for Thanksgiving.
I would've liked to see more friendship scenes before the Thanksgiving thing (maybe see Dario meets the rest of the firefighters) or something along those lines.
A couple of things also really bothered me with how characters acted.
Dario had just gotten out of an incredibly abusive relationship and yet his mom (and family) seemed extremely accepting of the fact that he just got into another one. IDK about you, but if I had to sneak my son out of his abusive ex's home, I probably would be hounding off any prospective partners for at least a couple of years let alone inviting new BFs to Thanksgiving.
The fire station trying to convince Lochlan that he was actually attracted to Dario felt incredibly inappropriate too. Idgaf if Lili was the bisexual extraordinaire, Lochlan's sexuality and relationships were none of her business. Trying to convince someone they're actually queer isn't any more appropriate than trying to convince someone they're straight. It maybe would've been more palatable if they had seen Dario and Lochlan together and Lochlan was still incredibly clueless.
The fake dating lasts like three seconds (I swear, Lochlan spent more time with Dario's Aunt Gaby during her expo dump than he did pretending to be Dario's BF), they sleep in the same bed, but it wasn't steamy or exciting.
And even though it takes until 50% for Dario amd Lochlan to get together, it wasn't at all satisfying because it felt like there hadn't been any real tension during the build up. Sure, Dario pined a little, but it wasn't world ending, passionate desire. Lochlan questioned why he wanted to be around Dario, but there weren't enough scenes to really drive home the fact that he was helplessly attracted and felt like he was suffering when they weren't together.
I think the author does a good job characterizing Dario as a man who's trying to rebuild his confidence after having it be shattered in an abusive relationship. Lochlan's a bit too standard of the golden retriever himbo though.
TL;DR Things happen a bit too quickly, there's not really any romantic tension, and the romance feels unsatisfying because of it.
Things felt like they progressed to quickly. We got the meet cute, there's a single doggy date, then Lochlan and Dario are suddenly agreeing to fake date for Thanksgiving.
I would've liked to see more friendship scenes before the Thanksgiving thing (maybe see Dario meets the rest of the firefighters) or something along those lines.
A couple of things also really bothered me with how characters acted.
Dario had just gotten out of an incredibly abusive relationship and yet his mom (and family) seemed extremely accepting of the fact that he just got into another one. IDK about you, but if I had to sneak my son out of his abusive ex's home, I probably would be hounding off any prospective partners for at least a couple of years let alone inviting new BFs to Thanksgiving.
The fire station trying to convince Lochlan that he was actually attracted to Dario felt incredibly inappropriate too. Idgaf if Lili was the bisexual extraordinaire, Lochlan's sexuality and relationships were none of her business. Trying to convince someone they're actually queer isn't any more appropriate than trying to convince someone they're straight. It maybe would've been more palatable if they had seen Dario and Lochlan together and Lochlan was still incredibly clueless.
The fake dating lasts like three seconds (I swear, Lochlan spent more time with Dario's Aunt Gaby during her expo dump than he did pretending to be Dario's BF), they sleep in the same bed, but it wasn't steamy or exciting.
And even though it takes until 50% for Dario amd Lochlan to get together, it wasn't at all satisfying because it felt like there hadn't been any real tension during the build up. Sure, Dario pined a little, but it wasn't world ending, passionate desire. Lochlan questioned why he wanted to be around Dario, but there weren't enough scenes to really drive home the fact that he was helplessly attracted and felt like he was suffering when they weren't together.
I think the author does a good job characterizing Dario as a man who's trying to rebuild his confidence after having it be shattered in an abusive relationship. Lochlan's a bit too standard of the golden retriever himbo though.
TL;DR Things happen a bit too quickly, there's not really any romantic tension, and the romance feels unsatisfying because of it.
December 28, 2025
ARC review
This was really good, I loved it.
Lochlan was just a giant golden retriever and just the cutest. He accepted that he liked Dario pretty easily and that's how it should be. Liking someone isn't suppose to be hard.
Dario had been through something in his past and that shaped his view of future relationships. Luckily Lochlan was there to show him that are still good people out there.
I loved their relationship, they went from strangers, to friends, to best friends, to lovers, to favorite person of the other one, it was so sweet
This was really good, I loved it.
Lochlan was just a giant golden retriever and just the cutest. He accepted that he liked Dario pretty easily and that's how it should be. Liking someone isn't suppose to be hard.
Dario had been through something in his past and that shaped his view of future relationships. Luckily Lochlan was there to show him that are still good people out there.
I loved their relationship, they went from strangers, to friends, to best friends, to lovers, to favorite person of the other one, it was so sweet
April 19, 2025
2 🌟
A big ole cheese fest if that’s your vibe!
Dario/Miguel (H1) had to start a new life after he escaped from his abusive ex. Luckily for Dario, he has a wonderful immediate and extended family who are there for him the whole way. He loves an hour from them though, so he adopts a new dog and buys a home and is just trying to beat the loneliness. When he takes his dog to a doggy training boot camp, he meets Lochlan (H2). Lochlan is the ultimate golden retriever. He believes he’s dead straight and so these two embark on a friendship at first. Lochlan is also a firefighter, and he has a really amazing support system around him.
Unfortunately this didn’t quite work for me. I found it sickly sweet and didn’t really connect with the mains. I think it may have been better if Lochlan’s bisexual awakening was a bit clearer from the start. He fully, truly thought he was straight until like over 40% into the book, so I really struggled to feel the romance between the mains. He also didn’t really come to any of these realisations by himself and it was his best friend basically telling him that he wasn’t straight, rather than him actually starting to see Dario in a romantic light, which hindered my ability to actually see him falling for and being attracted to Dario. It was super jarring to have him go from “I’m straight… that’s not me… etc” and not once having a thought about romance between them, to giving Dario a blowjob and basically asking to be in a relationship within the space of a day.
Also, one of the characters calls the other “dirty boy” constantly while they’re intimate with each other and I found it so gross and cringe. It just did not fit either of the characters vibes at all and completely took me out of the moment. I skimmed all of the sex scenes because of this one pet name and that’s super annoying. It was like every second line!!! Why? But also, the spicy times weren’t really to my taste anyways. There was too much internal monologue about how and why they were doing stuff and it was just overall so unsexy to me.
There were moments that made me physically cringe throughout this book, including the big confrontation with H1’s ex. I can see that the author wanted to show Dario’s found family off and that’s super sweet, I just couldn’t get past that sickening cheesy feeling it left me with.
Ultimately, this is a low angst and sickly sweet read. It probably would be good for someone who is looking to completely disassociate from reality.
Safety:
- no virgins
- H2 has previously only been with women before.
- No ow or om drama; H1’s ex shows up but H1 would never be interested in him again.
- Detailed descriptions of DV and coercive control throughout the book (emotional and physical)
A big ole cheese fest if that’s your vibe!
Dario/Miguel (H1) had to start a new life after he escaped from his abusive ex. Luckily for Dario, he has a wonderful immediate and extended family who are there for him the whole way. He loves an hour from them though, so he adopts a new dog and buys a home and is just trying to beat the loneliness. When he takes his dog to a doggy training boot camp, he meets Lochlan (H2). Lochlan is the ultimate golden retriever. He believes he’s dead straight and so these two embark on a friendship at first. Lochlan is also a firefighter, and he has a really amazing support system around him.
Unfortunately this didn’t quite work for me. I found it sickly sweet and didn’t really connect with the mains. I think it may have been better if Lochlan’s bisexual awakening was a bit clearer from the start. He fully, truly thought he was straight until like over 40% into the book, so I really struggled to feel the romance between the mains. He also didn’t really come to any of these realisations by himself and it was his best friend basically telling him that he wasn’t straight, rather than him actually starting to see Dario in a romantic light, which hindered my ability to actually see him falling for and being attracted to Dario. It was super jarring to have him go from “I’m straight… that’s not me… etc” and not once having a thought about romance between them, to giving Dario a blowjob and basically asking to be in a relationship within the space of a day.
Also, one of the characters calls the other “dirty boy” constantly while they’re intimate with each other and I found it so gross and cringe. It just did not fit either of the characters vibes at all and completely took me out of the moment. I skimmed all of the sex scenes because of this one pet name and that’s super annoying. It was like every second line!!! Why? But also, the spicy times weren’t really to my taste anyways. There was too much internal monologue about how and why they were doing stuff and it was just overall so unsexy to me.
There were moments that made me physically cringe throughout this book, including the big confrontation with H1’s ex. I can see that the author wanted to show Dario’s found family off and that’s super sweet, I just couldn’t get past that sickening cheesy feeling it left me with.
Ultimately, this is a low angst and sickly sweet read. It probably would be good for someone who is looking to completely disassociate from reality.
Safety:
- no virgins
- H2 has previously only been with women before.
- No ow or om drama; H1’s ex shows up but H1 would never be interested in him again.
- Detailed descriptions of DV and coercive control throughout the book (emotional and physical)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 8, 2025
*I received an ARC copy of this book and this review is my honest opinion*(no spoilers)
Book - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice - 🌶.5
Tropes:-
🔥 Firefighter found family series
🔥 Himbo x IT cutie
🔥 Fake boyfriends
🔥 Bisexual awakening
🔥 Nerd/jock (but actually, they're both nerds)
🔥 Rescued puppies
🔥 Only one bed
🔥 Hurt/comfort
🔥 Dramatic rescues!
🔥 Low angst, high heat
🔥 HEA
Content Warnings
One of the MCs escaped a domestic abuse situation. This recovery is a central theme in the book, but no DA is shown on pag
(Taken from author instagram)
""Love makes us all brave"
Love a food firefighter story- I blame 911!- and I really enjoyed this book. This book is the start of a new series and set up the premise of the firehouse, and introduced us to the characters.
The firefighting aspect of the book was well done/enjoyable even if I did have to suspend my disbelief a little when Dario got to ride along to a callout as a civilian during his first time at the station. The rescue is led to was well worth it.
The DA part of the story was well handled, especially in exploring how it affected Dario during the aftermath, and any physical violence was only mentioned as it happened off page prior to the book starting. It was very satisfying to watch Dario overcome the scars from his past and how Lochlan helped him so that. They worked well as a couple, thier chemistry felt believable and they had good communication throughout.
My only issue was that it felt like it could have been longer - for example the fake dating portion was over very quickly- and there were things that I feel could have been expanded on especially when we met so many new characters. There wasn't tons of Spice but what was included was well written.
Despite this, I would recommend this as a sweet, somewhat easy read with minimal angst despite some of the heavier topics covered. Will 100% be reading the next one.
"I realize I’m drifting off to sleep in his arms, but I don’t fight it. Lochlan Bell might not be my boyfriend, but he’s the best pretend boyfriend I could ever ask for. It’s not much. However, after everything I’ve been through, I’ll take it."
Book - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice - 🌶.5
Tropes:-
🔥 Firefighter found family series
🔥 Himbo x IT cutie
🔥 Fake boyfriends
🔥 Bisexual awakening
🔥 Nerd/jock (but actually, they're both nerds)
🔥 Rescued puppies
🔥 Only one bed
🔥 Hurt/comfort
🔥 Dramatic rescues!
🔥 Low angst, high heat
🔥 HEA
Content Warnings
One of the MCs escaped a domestic abuse situation. This recovery is a central theme in the book, but no DA is shown on pag
(Taken from author instagram)
""Love makes us all brave"
Love a food firefighter story- I blame 911!- and I really enjoyed this book. This book is the start of a new series and set up the premise of the firehouse, and introduced us to the characters.
The firefighting aspect of the book was well done/enjoyable even if I did have to suspend my disbelief a little when Dario got to ride along to a callout as a civilian during his first time at the station. The rescue is led to was well worth it.
The DA part of the story was well handled, especially in exploring how it affected Dario during the aftermath, and any physical violence was only mentioned as it happened off page prior to the book starting. It was very satisfying to watch Dario overcome the scars from his past and how Lochlan helped him so that. They worked well as a couple, thier chemistry felt believable and they had good communication throughout.
My only issue was that it felt like it could have been longer - for example the fake dating portion was over very quickly- and there were things that I feel could have been expanded on especially when we met so many new characters. There wasn't tons of Spice but what was included was well written.
Despite this, I would recommend this as a sweet, somewhat easy read with minimal angst despite some of the heavier topics covered. Will 100% be reading the next one.
"I realize I’m drifting off to sleep in his arms, but I don’t fight it. Lochlan Bell might not be my boyfriend, but he’s the best pretend boyfriend I could ever ask for. It’s not much. However, after everything I’ve been through, I’ll take it."
April 10, 2025
This book was SO sweet and absolutely hit the spot!
Igniting His Flame had everything I love in a romance. There are two adorable rescue dogs—and honestly, with one of the main characters radiating golden retriever energy, it felt like three. I’m a sucker for found family stories, and this one delivered that cosy, heartwarming vibe in spades.
The “fake boyfriends to impress the parents” trope makes a quick appearance, and I was relieved it didn’t take over the whole story. It was just the right amount—fun and believable without getting ridiculous. What really pulled me in was Dario’s fresh start after escaping an abusive relationship. Seeing him build something new with someone so sweet and supportive was incredibly satisfying.
And oh, the geekiness. I was all in the moment I realised both characters are huge sci-fi nerds. There’s this perfect quote: “It’s like Dario and I have our own special language. I don’t have to explain that Ewoks are from Star Wars. He just knows.” That hit me right in the feels. There’s something magical about meeting someone who’s not just into what you love—but gets it at the same level. It’s freeing, and this book really captured that.
Lochlan totally stole my heart. I fall hard for the big lovable himbos, and he’s a top-tier cinnamon roll. There were so many scenes where I just wanted to hug him. His friendship with Dario is so pure from the beginning, and you really get to see how it naturally grows into something more. I especially loved how eager he was to help, even offering to practice holding hands before meeting the family. I mean, come on. That’s adorable.
This might not be HJ Welch’s steamiest book, but it still had plenty of heat and a few fun surprises. The relationship felt genuine and safe, and even the angst was pretty low—just some brief drama with Dario’s ex that wraps up nicely. Their first kiss scene had me melting, and the way Lochlan showed up for Dario again and again really made this story shine.
Now I’m just impatiently waiting for books about the rest of the firefighter crew. They’re such a quirky, fun found family, and I need more of them in my life.
Igniting His Flame had everything I love in a romance. There are two adorable rescue dogs—and honestly, with one of the main characters radiating golden retriever energy, it felt like three. I’m a sucker for found family stories, and this one delivered that cosy, heartwarming vibe in spades.
The “fake boyfriends to impress the parents” trope makes a quick appearance, and I was relieved it didn’t take over the whole story. It was just the right amount—fun and believable without getting ridiculous. What really pulled me in was Dario’s fresh start after escaping an abusive relationship. Seeing him build something new with someone so sweet and supportive was incredibly satisfying.
And oh, the geekiness. I was all in the moment I realised both characters are huge sci-fi nerds. There’s this perfect quote: “It’s like Dario and I have our own special language. I don’t have to explain that Ewoks are from Star Wars. He just knows.” That hit me right in the feels. There’s something magical about meeting someone who’s not just into what you love—but gets it at the same level. It’s freeing, and this book really captured that.
Lochlan totally stole my heart. I fall hard for the big lovable himbos, and he’s a top-tier cinnamon roll. There were so many scenes where I just wanted to hug him. His friendship with Dario is so pure from the beginning, and you really get to see how it naturally grows into something more. I especially loved how eager he was to help, even offering to practice holding hands before meeting the family. I mean, come on. That’s adorable.
This might not be HJ Welch’s steamiest book, but it still had plenty of heat and a few fun surprises. The relationship felt genuine and safe, and even the angst was pretty low—just some brief drama with Dario’s ex that wraps up nicely. Their first kiss scene had me melting, and the way Lochlan showed up for Dario again and again really made this story shine.
Now I’m just impatiently waiting for books about the rest of the firefighter crew. They’re such a quirky, fun found family, and I need more of them in my life.
April 13, 2025
Dario and Lochlan's story had so much to love -- a cozy, close-knit small town, two upstanding leads with engaging personalities, a romance chock full of sweetness and chemistry, and two rescue dogs who melted my heart completely. Dario had his reasons for being guarded when he first moved to Redwood Bay, but it was impossible not to open up around Lochlan when he had such a sunshiney, earnest personality. The two of them bonded over their rescue dogs, Rocky and Queenie, and became fast friends. Lochlan was convinced he was straight at the beginning of the book, but the way he couldn't shut up about Dario made it clear to all his firefighter buddies that he had a bit of a crush. It took Lochlan ages for his brain to catch up to what his heart and body were telling him, but his obliviousness just endeared him to me more. Dario was hopelessly smitten with his friend but terrified to upset the status quo, so I spent the first several chapters waiting patiently for the two dummies to realize their feelings were reciprocated. As I learned more about the events that had led Dario to move states, I understood just how much trust it had taken him to let Lochlan into his life, and that made their connection feel even more special. All Lochlan wanted to do was take care of and love on his man, and he proved every day that he was nothing like the toxic ex Dario had left behind. Lochlan and Dario's relationship had such good energy that built and built on itself, and there was never a single moment when I got concerned that they wouldn't last as a couple. Instead, most of the conflict in this book came from Lochlan's dangerous rescues as a firefighter and Dario getting closure from the things he'd been running from, and I couldn't be happier with the resolution the two of them got. Seeing Lochlan and Dario surrounded by friends and family and moving confidently into the next chapter of their lives together was the best sendoff, and I'm already eager to see what's in store next for the town of Redwood Bay!
**I voluntarily read an ARC of this book. This review expresses my honest thoughts and opinions.
**I voluntarily read an ARC of this book. This review expresses my honest thoughts and opinions.
March 26, 2025
I was gifted my copy of this book.
I'm not rehash the blurb here, but jumping straight in.
I bloody LOVED this book!
In a review for a previous Welch/Juliet book, I said I didn't enjoy it because it was first person/present tense/ and multi POV. If you follow my reviews, you'll know I'm not a fan. Well guess what? I didn't even notice this book was written as such!
I think that this can best be described using something from the book. This is a labrador meeting a scared puppy, and that labrador being the one thing that can help the puppy get over his trauma!
Lochlan is a fire fighter and pulls a puppy from a fire. Dario adopts a dog, after coming to town to get away from his abusive ex. The dogs bond way faster than the men, but they really don't waste much time. I loved how at ease Dario was with Lochlan, right from the start, despite his past. Lochlan is straight, so nothing to worry about. But Dario still crushes and crushes HARD on Lochlan.
I loved the others in the fire crew. They helped Lochlan to see that maybe he wasn't as straight as he thought. Metaphorically speaking, by dashing his head against the wall the make his see just what Dario means to him! I loved that it was Lochlan who makes the move, rather than Dario. But given Dario's history, it was understandable.
I loved the was both sets of parents accepted the new partner for their son. Dario's had reason to be wary, but they do give Lochlan a chance, and the man does come good.
Apart from the drama with the ex, there is little angst. And I loved that there wasn't. Dario does have some history that is high angst, but nothing on page, and he is getting the help he needs to get over that.
It's so freaking cute, I just went "ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh" when I finished it, and it really is full of the warm and fuzzies! I'm looking forward to getting to know the other guys in the crew!
Can't fault it, really so....
5 full and shiny stars
*same worded review will appear elsewhere and no puppies were harmed in the writing of this book!
I'm not rehash the blurb here, but jumping straight in.
I bloody LOVED this book!
In a review for a previous Welch/Juliet book, I said I didn't enjoy it because it was first person/present tense/ and multi POV. If you follow my reviews, you'll know I'm not a fan. Well guess what? I didn't even notice this book was written as such!
I think that this can best be described using something from the book. This is a labrador meeting a scared puppy, and that labrador being the one thing that can help the puppy get over his trauma!
Lochlan is a fire fighter and pulls a puppy from a fire. Dario adopts a dog, after coming to town to get away from his abusive ex. The dogs bond way faster than the men, but they really don't waste much time. I loved how at ease Dario was with Lochlan, right from the start, despite his past. Lochlan is straight, so nothing to worry about. But Dario still crushes and crushes HARD on Lochlan.
I loved the others in the fire crew. They helped Lochlan to see that maybe he wasn't as straight as he thought. Metaphorically speaking, by dashing his head against the wall the make his see just what Dario means to him! I loved that it was Lochlan who makes the move, rather than Dario. But given Dario's history, it was understandable.
I loved the was both sets of parents accepted the new partner for their son. Dario's had reason to be wary, but they do give Lochlan a chance, and the man does come good.
Apart from the drama with the ex, there is little angst. And I loved that there wasn't. Dario does have some history that is high angst, but nothing on page, and he is getting the help he needs to get over that.
It's so freaking cute, I just went "ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh" when I finished it, and it really is full of the warm and fuzzies! I'm looking forward to getting to know the other guys in the crew!
Can't fault it, really so....
5 full and shiny stars
*same worded review will appear elsewhere and no puppies were harmed in the writing of this book!
April 18, 2025
This book will ignite some heat for you when you read it. It is spicy and I believe it has a little bit of humor in certain spots. This also has previous abuse and mental illness in it so if those are triggers, you may want to be careful when ready. I didn't let it stop me and was so glad I kept reading.
Dario has left his old life and moved away to a new area called Redwood Bay. He knows it is one place his ex-boyfriend cannot find him as he can't deal with the abuse and controlling anymore. He wants to start fresh and swore off men. He decides he will adopt a dog named Queenie and she is so perfect for him. He decides to do a puppy training class and there he meets the hot fire-fighter Lochlan. He can't figure him out but when Lochlan says he will help him with his family at Thanksgiving by being his fake boyfriend, he knows it's a bad idea as he is already to deep in with his feelings.
Lochlan rescues a puppy when he is assisting on putting out a fire. He decides he will keep the puppy and gets him checked out along with signing up for puppy classes. He meets Dario and he instantly claims Dario as his new best friend. Lochlan doesn't quite understand why he clicked with Dario and is always talking about him. He knows that Dario is running for something or someone and he will wait for Dario to tell him all about it. When he offers to go home with Dario, he doesn't expect to learn some things. Lochlan soon realizes that he is feeling different and very protective over Dario. When Dario's past catches up with him, Lochlan will stop at nothing to protect him.
These two are made for each other and they both have so much in common even though they don't seem like they do. The more time they spend together, the more open they are. This is a steamy book but also a protector who will stop at nothing to protect someone he cares about. Don't forget about the doggies either, they help make the story :)
*I received an ARC through Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review.*
Dario has left his old life and moved away to a new area called Redwood Bay. He knows it is one place his ex-boyfriend cannot find him as he can't deal with the abuse and controlling anymore. He wants to start fresh and swore off men. He decides he will adopt a dog named Queenie and she is so perfect for him. He decides to do a puppy training class and there he meets the hot fire-fighter Lochlan. He can't figure him out but when Lochlan says he will help him with his family at Thanksgiving by being his fake boyfriend, he knows it's a bad idea as he is already to deep in with his feelings.
Lochlan rescues a puppy when he is assisting on putting out a fire. He decides he will keep the puppy and gets him checked out along with signing up for puppy classes. He meets Dario and he instantly claims Dario as his new best friend. Lochlan doesn't quite understand why he clicked with Dario and is always talking about him. He knows that Dario is running for something or someone and he will wait for Dario to tell him all about it. When he offers to go home with Dario, he doesn't expect to learn some things. Lochlan soon realizes that he is feeling different and very protective over Dario. When Dario's past catches up with him, Lochlan will stop at nothing to protect him.
These two are made for each other and they both have so much in common even though they don't seem like they do. The more time they spend together, the more open they are. This is a steamy book but also a protector who will stop at nothing to protect someone he cares about. Don't forget about the doggies either, they help make the story :)
*I received an ARC through Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review.*
April 20, 2025
Entertaining and Sweet
This was a fun, easy, weekend read. Very low angst, no dreaded miscommunication, easygoing bi-awakening, and two sweet MMCs and their dogs.
If you’re looking for a very deep, emotional story, this is sort of a skimming the surface version of that. It does touch on some very important subjects like DA and recovery from trauma, but somehow still in a lighthearted way that didn’t ever feel too heavy or emotional. I connected to the characters and enjoyed the journey that Dario went on but the book never felt hard to read or too emotionally taxing.
It sounds a bit strange to refer to a book that leans heavily on themes of trauma and mental health as lighthearted but that’s what this book felt like. The relationship between Lochlan and Dario was easygoing and sweet and the way they moved from friends to lovers felt easy too. Their adorable dogs were a bonus and it’s pretty clear that many of the others at Lochlan’s job will be getting their own stories so I’m excited to return to this couple and little world someday when more books are out and I need a feel good, sweet story.
I do wish some parts of the story were a little more serious. Not necessarily in the trauma recovery or drama, but more so just in how our two MMCs communicated with each other and their friends and family. And the spice, while good, was a bit surprising in how easy going it all was. I don’t want my MMCs to suffer unnecessarily but I would expect a few more conversations or hesitations with a bi-awakening where the MMCs want to move slowly to respect each others boundaries and comfort levels.
In any case, this book was a lot of fun and I am looking forward to more in the series!
Tropes: Hurt/Comfort, Fake Boyfriend, Bi-Awakening, Firefighter MMC, Size Difference, Found Family, Trauma / Mental Health, Fur Babies
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️ 3/5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️ 2/5
Relationship: MM
This was a fun, easy, weekend read. Very low angst, no dreaded miscommunication, easygoing bi-awakening, and two sweet MMCs and their dogs.
If you’re looking for a very deep, emotional story, this is sort of a skimming the surface version of that. It does touch on some very important subjects like DA and recovery from trauma, but somehow still in a lighthearted way that didn’t ever feel too heavy or emotional. I connected to the characters and enjoyed the journey that Dario went on but the book never felt hard to read or too emotionally taxing.
It sounds a bit strange to refer to a book that leans heavily on themes of trauma and mental health as lighthearted but that’s what this book felt like. The relationship between Lochlan and Dario was easygoing and sweet and the way they moved from friends to lovers felt easy too. Their adorable dogs were a bonus and it’s pretty clear that many of the others at Lochlan’s job will be getting their own stories so I’m excited to return to this couple and little world someday when more books are out and I need a feel good, sweet story.
I do wish some parts of the story were a little more serious. Not necessarily in the trauma recovery or drama, but more so just in how our two MMCs communicated with each other and their friends and family. And the spice, while good, was a bit surprising in how easy going it all was. I don’t want my MMCs to suffer unnecessarily but I would expect a few more conversations or hesitations with a bi-awakening where the MMCs want to move slowly to respect each others boundaries and comfort levels.
In any case, this book was a lot of fun and I am looking forward to more in the series!
Tropes: Hurt/Comfort, Fake Boyfriend, Bi-Awakening, Firefighter MMC, Size Difference, Found Family, Trauma / Mental Health, Fur Babies
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️ 3/5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️ 2/5
Relationship: MM
April 9, 2025
I really enjoyed the slowly developing romance between Lachlan and Dario as they went from dog buddies to acquaintances to good friends to lovers, once Lochlan figured out what was going on with himself. Lochlan was such a sunny person, I don’t think he met a person he didn’t like (but one), he was caring, protective, supportive, and uplifting for Dario, not letting him keep putting himself down. He was intuitive, easily picking up on hints that something really bad had hurt Dario in the past, but was there for him, no questions asked. The two bonded over their rescues first, then moved to friends once Dario felt he could trust Lochan. The relationship between Queenie and Rocky was as grounding for Dario as the relationship with Lochlan, enabling him to open up more and become more comfortable the more time they spent together. When challenges arose, Dario found what he needed within himself to get through to the other side with Lochlan’s unwavering support and belief in him.
I just had such a good feeling reading this book, and the two characters (and their dogs) really spoke to me. The description of Lochlan and his golden retriever personality was right on point, that image was always in the back of my mind. Sometimes he seemed so clueless, much younger than his 33 years, but he could always be counted onto do his best, to stand up for his friends and never waver on their behalf. Dario really came into his own as he tried to live up to the image Lochlan painted of him, believing in himself the more he believed in Lochlan and his concern for him. The story wasn’t without heartache for Dario, but the love of Lochlan and the addition of two more found families to support him made all the difference in his view of himself, his world, and his life. A very satisfying story for me all around.
I just had such a good feeling reading this book, and the two characters (and their dogs) really spoke to me. The description of Lochlan and his golden retriever personality was right on point, that image was always in the back of my mind. Sometimes he seemed so clueless, much younger than his 33 years, but he could always be counted onto do his best, to stand up for his friends and never waver on their behalf. Dario really came into his own as he tried to live up to the image Lochlan painted of him, believing in himself the more he believed in Lochlan and his concern for him. The story wasn’t without heartache for Dario, but the love of Lochlan and the addition of two more found families to support him made all the difference in his view of himself, his world, and his life. A very satisfying story for me all around.
April 4, 2025
Something about this book hit all the right notes for me - maybe it was the perfect blend of super serious subject matter with a (sometimes) completely unserious MC. Whatever it was, what could have easily become too much was instead executed with so much heart and care that I couldn't stop turning the pages.
Lochlan's over-the-top enthusiasm for literally everything, and his exuberant golden retriever-like personality SHOULD have been annoying...but wasn't, somehow. At all. It was endearing. He was sunshine personified, and in the context of the story - especially next to Dario's more reserved, cautious, wounded demeanor - he was exactly what we all needed. He brought levity, humor and heart to every scene he was in, and I kind of wished I had my own Lochlan in my corner.
Dario's self-flagellation over his past relationship was intense at times, and when you consider the trauma he is recovering from, it's understandable. Still, it was almost too much and came close to detracting from the story once or twice. But the author handled it with such grace and sensitivity that any minor frustration melted away every time he gave Lochlan another piece of himself. His journey to rediscover his worth was genuinely moving, and his bond with Queenie gave the story a little extra emotional punch.
Throw in the fake dating trope and the absolutely delightful found family at the firehouse, and this book was just everything I didn't know I needed right now. I laughed, I teared up, I swooned over their first kiss.
This is the first book of a new series, and I can't wait for the next book to come out!
Lochlan's over-the-top enthusiasm for literally everything, and his exuberant golden retriever-like personality SHOULD have been annoying...but wasn't, somehow. At all. It was endearing. He was sunshine personified, and in the context of the story - especially next to Dario's more reserved, cautious, wounded demeanor - he was exactly what we all needed. He brought levity, humor and heart to every scene he was in, and I kind of wished I had my own Lochlan in my corner.
Dario's self-flagellation over his past relationship was intense at times, and when you consider the trauma he is recovering from, it's understandable. Still, it was almost too much and came close to detracting from the story once or twice. But the author handled it with such grace and sensitivity that any minor frustration melted away every time he gave Lochlan another piece of himself. His journey to rediscover his worth was genuinely moving, and his bond with Queenie gave the story a little extra emotional punch.
Throw in the fake dating trope and the absolutely delightful found family at the firehouse, and this book was just everything I didn't know I needed right now. I laughed, I teared up, I swooned over their first kiss.
This is the first book of a new series, and I can't wait for the next book to come out!
April 23, 2025
“But… you’re straight?” he says eventually.
“Pft,” I tell him with a grin. “I’d make a damn fine bisexual for a day, I’m sure.”
I loved this book. It was a beautiful hurt/comfort romance. I really loved both Dario and Lochlan. I really liked Loch's personality, and his reaction saving a tiny puppy from the burning building pretty much instantly won my heart. Dario's past is a weight on his heart, but seeing him bond with sad Queenie who no one seemed to want won my heart too. (So I was all in for these to to become a couple [even though they hadn't met yet]).
I really loved the relationship that formed between them- close friends, fake boyfriends, then something more. Lochlan may be sweet sunshine, but they both have their insecurities. Enough that both admire each other and don't see what would draw the other to them. Loch was really such a sweet guy and cheerfully wanted to elevate Dario even before he began to realize what he feelings actually were.
"Sexuality, like a lot of things, is on a scale. Maybe you’re just a little bit bi. Maybe you’re Dario-sexual. It doesn’t really matter. You can label it however you want or not at all. All that matters is how you feel about him.”
A slow burn, and them finally opening up was absolutely precious and heartwarming to me. And boy did their chemistry sizzle!
I also liked the supporting characters and loved Dario's family so much. This was a very fun and sweet read. I wish I could listen to it in audio someday! 5 stars.
“Pft,” I tell him with a grin. “I’d make a damn fine bisexual for a day, I’m sure.”
I loved this book. It was a beautiful hurt/comfort romance. I really loved both Dario and Lochlan. I really liked Loch's personality, and his reaction saving a tiny puppy from the burning building pretty much instantly won my heart. Dario's past is a weight on his heart, but seeing him bond with sad Queenie who no one seemed to want won my heart too. (So I was all in for these to to become a couple [even though they hadn't met yet]).
I really loved the relationship that formed between them- close friends, fake boyfriends, then something more. Lochlan may be sweet sunshine, but they both have their insecurities. Enough that both admire each other and don't see what would draw the other to them. Loch was really such a sweet guy and cheerfully wanted to elevate Dario even before he began to realize what he feelings actually were.
"Sexuality, like a lot of things, is on a scale. Maybe you’re just a little bit bi. Maybe you’re Dario-sexual. It doesn’t really matter. You can label it however you want or not at all. All that matters is how you feel about him.”
A slow burn, and them finally opening up was absolutely precious and heartwarming to me. And boy did their chemistry sizzle!
I also liked the supporting characters and loved Dario's family so much. This was a very fun and sweet read. I wish I could listen to it in audio someday! 5 stars.
March 30, 2025
MY OPINION: I liked this book so much. It’s just fun. The two main characters in the story are well introduced, and you really get to know who they are and what they are feeling.
Lochlan, a happy, warm, caring firefighter, is just so wholesome you want to bottle his energy and keep it in your pocket. Traveling with him through his awakening and seeing how nothing really throws him off is fun. He has a wonderful firehouse family and birth family, both of which we get a good feel for. He is a riot, fully good-natured and someone who lights up everywhere he goes. So willing to do whatever it takes for Dario to be comfortable with him and enjoy who he is. He doesn’t apologize for himself at all, and I love that.
Dario has been through things, but he is strong. The way he is willing to fight his own demons in his head is a great story. He doesn’t listen to those voices. He uses the tools he has learned and is brave enough to trust, even though instinct is against him. He also has a wonderful family that you get to know pretty well.
The addition of their dogs, which are a huge part of the story, makes it a delight to read. I love this couple so much, and there’s some very spicy chemistry. The scenes are very hot and are a wonderful addition to the overall story. Generally, this is a great book, funny, spicy, low-angst, and sweet. You will very much enjoy reading it and getting to know this great couple. I hope book two follows this formula because I am hooked.
Lochlan, a happy, warm, caring firefighter, is just so wholesome you want to bottle his energy and keep it in your pocket. Traveling with him through his awakening and seeing how nothing really throws him off is fun. He has a wonderful firehouse family and birth family, both of which we get a good feel for. He is a riot, fully good-natured and someone who lights up everywhere he goes. So willing to do whatever it takes for Dario to be comfortable with him and enjoy who he is. He doesn’t apologize for himself at all, and I love that.
Dario has been through things, but he is strong. The way he is willing to fight his own demons in his head is a great story. He doesn’t listen to those voices. He uses the tools he has learned and is brave enough to trust, even though instinct is against him. He also has a wonderful family that you get to know pretty well.
The addition of their dogs, which are a huge part of the story, makes it a delight to read. I love this couple so much, and there’s some very spicy chemistry. The scenes are very hot and are a wonderful addition to the overall story. Generally, this is a great book, funny, spicy, low-angst, and sweet. You will very much enjoy reading it and getting to know this great couple. I hope book two follows this formula because I am hooked.
March 30, 2025
Tia Gaby's margaritas, DeLorean, mille feuille, rocket fuel, Idanä, 4K Technicolor™️, ice cream truck, kintsugi, Jimi Hendricks
"Igniting His Flame" by HJ Welch is a meet-cute, firefighter nerd/computer nerd, bisexual awakening rom-com. Lachlan Bell is a firefighter at House 113 in Redwood Bay, CA. He rescues a Dalmatian puppy and soon adopts and names it Rocky. Dario Garcia-Perez has just moved to town from AZ to escape an abusive relationship. At everyone's prompting he adopts an English Bulldog name Queenie from the local dog rescue. As new pet parents, Dario and Lachlan meet at a dog training class at the park in town and quickly become good friends. Dario secretly moons over and lusts after Lachlan, who is straight. Both men also bond over all things sci-fi.
There's an exciting action scene involving the 113 with Dario riding along. Then there's Mrs. Bloom, the 113's quirky neighbor; I love her and her shih tzu Miss Margot Fonteyn. Oh, I also love Tia Gaby. We get to meet Dario's family, Lachlan's family and his 113 family. Everyone is warm and close-knit. However, Dario is very guarded like anyone who is dealing with the trauma of abuse would be.
This is heartwarming and, despite the abuse, entertaining. Four stars and I recommend it.
"Igniting His Flame" by HJ Welch is a meet-cute, firefighter nerd/computer nerd, bisexual awakening rom-com. Lachlan Bell is a firefighter at House 113 in Redwood Bay, CA. He rescues a Dalmatian puppy and soon adopts and names it Rocky. Dario Garcia-Perez has just moved to town from AZ to escape an abusive relationship. At everyone's prompting he adopts an English Bulldog name Queenie from the local dog rescue. As new pet parents, Dario and Lachlan meet at a dog training class at the park in town and quickly become good friends. Dario secretly moons over and lusts after Lachlan, who is straight. Both men also bond over all things sci-fi.
There's an exciting action scene involving the 113 with Dario riding along. Then there's Mrs. Bloom, the 113's quirky neighbor; I love her and her shih tzu Miss Margot Fonteyn. Oh, I also love Tia Gaby. We get to meet Dario's family, Lachlan's family and his 113 family. Everyone is warm and close-knit. However, Dario is very guarded like anyone who is dealing with the trauma of abuse would be.
This is heartwarming and, despite the abuse, entertaining. Four stars and I recommend it.
April 17, 2025
I loved Dario and Lochlan’s story and the introduction to this new series. Found family is one of my favourite tropes, and I loved both of their families too. Queenie and Rocky, of course, are scene stealers and also save the day on more than one occasion. I’m already invested in the One-Thirteen and looking forward to the rest of the series.
Lochlan’s a bit like a puppy, loyal and bouncy, but totally dependable and willing to put himself on the line to save someone else. I loved how he and Dario meet, and fall in love, although it takes a while, and that it takes his best friend to spell things out for Lochlan to work out he’s not as straight as he thought he was. I loved how Dario slowly begins to have faith in himself again, after everything he’s been through.
I loved the found family with the One-Thirteen. The banter is fun, and the way they all come together to support Dario and Lochlan is great. Dario’s aunt is wonderful. I love the conversation between her and Lochlan.
Queenie and Rocky’s reaction to Shane is brilliant, and exactly what he deserves. I knew that showdown would come before the end of the story, and it was well worth waiting for. Perfect in so many ways, and the closure Dario needed.
Lochlan’s a bit like a puppy, loyal and bouncy, but totally dependable and willing to put himself on the line to save someone else. I loved how he and Dario meet, and fall in love, although it takes a while, and that it takes his best friend to spell things out for Lochlan to work out he’s not as straight as he thought he was. I loved how Dario slowly begins to have faith in himself again, after everything he’s been through.
I loved the found family with the One-Thirteen. The banter is fun, and the way they all come together to support Dario and Lochlan is great. Dario’s aunt is wonderful. I love the conversation between her and Lochlan.
Queenie and Rocky’s reaction to Shane is brilliant, and exactly what he deserves. I knew that showdown would come before the end of the story, and it was well worth waiting for. Perfect in so many ways, and the closure Dario needed.
April 25, 2025
This was a sweet read and Lochlan was the best Golden Retriever of a man that I've read in a long time. He gave off more puppy energy than both the dogs combined. 🤣
Love a small town romance and we get not only two very supportive families but a found family of queer firefighters too (where presumably the rest of the books from the series will be coming from).
I did struggle a bit with the timeline, I don't think the author quite had a grasp on how much time had passed. And the intimate scenes were a skip for me as soon as Dario called Lochlan 'dirty boy' during their first time *gag*.
But overall I'd recommend this book and can't wait for the next one.
* abusive ex
* bisexual awakening
* small town
* doggy daddies
* firefighters
* supportive families
Reading Updates,
18% I don't know who is more of a puppy, Rocky or Lochlan.
30% Suspension of disbelief time. Would Dario's family really be that eager for him to have another boyfriend so quickly? Anyway, this is super cute so I'm happy to overlook it.
45% Pretty sure that the information about Dario's ex is a secret. Why is Lachlan telling the whole fire house?
56% First sex scene and Dario os calling Lochlan 'Dirty boy'? Yuk. That just feels completely out of place in this book and OOC.
81% The ex turning up was inevitable. Please say you didn't turn off the cameras, Dario.
86% That's the way to deal with that wanker. Loved it.
Love a small town romance and we get not only two very supportive families but a found family of queer firefighters too (where presumably the rest of the books from the series will be coming from).
I did struggle a bit with the timeline, I don't think the author quite had a grasp on how much time had passed. And the intimate scenes were a skip for me as soon as Dario called Lochlan 'dirty boy' during their first time *gag*.
But overall I'd recommend this book and can't wait for the next one.
* abusive ex
* bisexual awakening
* small town
* doggy daddies
* firefighters
* supportive families
Reading Updates,
18% I don't know who is more of a puppy, Rocky or Lochlan.
30% Suspension of disbelief time. Would Dario's family really be that eager for him to have another boyfriend so quickly? Anyway, this is super cute so I'm happy to overlook it.
45% Pretty sure that the information about Dario's ex is a secret. Why is Lachlan telling the whole fire house?
56% First sex scene and Dario os calling Lochlan 'Dirty boy'? Yuk. That just feels completely out of place in this book and OOC.
81% The ex turning up was inevitable. Please say you didn't turn off the cameras, Dario.
86% That's the way to deal with that wanker. Loved it.
October 1, 2025
But Did You Disassociate: Yes
Spice: loving and a lot of enthusiastic first times
MMC and MMC
A big sweet firefighter and a computer geek fall in love
Dual POV
HEA
Stand Alone/ No. 1 in a series (Redwood Bay Fire)
Anything pull me out of the book:
I kinda use books with characters with past abusive relationships as a type of therapy… so I do think of my real past as I read… but in a cathartic way
Extra smiles:
Size difference
puppies
hurt/comfort
Loving families
The computer geek is rebuilding his life after getting out of an abusive relationship and the firefighter is finding out he is not as straight as he thought he was. The meet cute is in a doggy class and then they become friends and fall in love. It is all super cute and they help each other learn to stop hating on themselves (don’t call yourself stupid and don’t call yourself weak). There is firefighting action and return of the evil ex action mixed in with dates and geeking out and meeting the fam. By the end of the book you just wanna be friends with both of them.
Its been weeks since I read this and I still think about the firefighter and smile… damn he is such a cutie!
Spice: loving and a lot of enthusiastic first times
MMC and MMC
A big sweet firefighter and a computer geek fall in love
Dual POV
HEA
Stand Alone/ No. 1 in a series (Redwood Bay Fire)
Anything pull me out of the book:
I kinda use books with characters with past abusive relationships as a type of therapy… so I do think of my real past as I read… but in a cathartic way
Extra smiles:
Size difference
puppies
hurt/comfort
Loving families
The computer geek is rebuilding his life after getting out of an abusive relationship and the firefighter is finding out he is not as straight as he thought he was. The meet cute is in a doggy class and then they become friends and fall in love. It is all super cute and they help each other learn to stop hating on themselves (don’t call yourself stupid and don’t call yourself weak). There is firefighting action and return of the evil ex action mixed in with dates and geeking out and meeting the fam. By the end of the book you just wanna be friends with both of them.
Its been weeks since I read this and I still think about the firefighter and smile… damn he is such a cutie!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 130 reviews