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Redwood Bay Fire #2
From the Ashes
Love is never lost
COLT
Walking away from Zahir Delacroix was the worst mistake I ever made. Over the years, I’ve tried to convince myself it was just a high school fling that wasn’t worth coming out for. My father was always clear that I was expected to follow in his footsteps, which meant becoming a hotshot lawyer and finding an appropriate high-society wife. Except I never did marry, and my legal career has brought me right back to Redwood Bay to take over his practice. Of course the first person I run into is Zahir, and it’s like the last fifteen years never happened. I still love him. Always have, always will. But I know he can never forgive me for what I did, nor love me when my family will never accept him. This time, it looks like I’m going to be the one left with a shattered heart.
ZAHIR
After ghosting me the moment we graduated high school, I never expected to see Colton Ross again. Coming face to face with him on a call is completely unexpected, and now he’s back in Redwood Bay, our paths refuse to stop crossing. I’d be a fool to let him into my life again, but my fragile heart can’t seem to resist my first love, my only true love. It might feel like destiny has reunited us, but nothing has really changed. I’m still never going to fit into his world, and I refuse to be his secret once more. But am I strong enough to let him go a second time?
From the Ashes is a red-hot, standalone MM romance. It’s the second 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 second chance at first love, tattered hearts that need to learn to trust again, an intimate portrait painting session, rediscovering a love of surfing, a blaze that’s purifying in more ways than one, and a guaranteed HEA with absolutely no cliffhanger.
COLT
Walking away from Zahir Delacroix was the worst mistake I ever made. Over the years, I’ve tried to convince myself it was just a high school fling that wasn’t worth coming out for. My father was always clear that I was expected to follow in his footsteps, which meant becoming a hotshot lawyer and finding an appropriate high-society wife. Except I never did marry, and my legal career has brought me right back to Redwood Bay to take over his practice. Of course the first person I run into is Zahir, and it’s like the last fifteen years never happened. I still love him. Always have, always will. But I know he can never forgive me for what I did, nor love me when my family will never accept him. This time, it looks like I’m going to be the one left with a shattered heart.
ZAHIR
After ghosting me the moment we graduated high school, I never expected to see Colton Ross again. Coming face to face with him on a call is completely unexpected, and now he’s back in Redwood Bay, our paths refuse to stop crossing. I’d be a fool to let him into my life again, but my fragile heart can’t seem to resist my first love, my only true love. It might feel like destiny has reunited us, but nothing has really changed. I’m still never going to fit into his world, and I refuse to be his secret once more. But am I strong enough to let him go a second time?
From the Ashes is a red-hot, standalone MM romance. It’s the second 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 second chance at first love, tattered hearts that need to learn to trust again, an intimate portrait painting session, rediscovering a love of surfing, a blaze that’s purifying in more ways than one, and a guaranteed HEA with absolutely no cliffhanger.
270 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 31, 2025
44 people are currently reading
87 people want to read
About the author
H.J. Welch
41 books290 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.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews
June 5, 2025
Safety info, content warnings and tropes down below.
If you like second chance but don’t like angst, look no further. It was very sweet and full of communication and self-awareness. The things I liked about it actually turned into the things I didn’t like *as much* about it. The amount of self-awareness and internal monologue sort of removed all the tension and possible angst. A bit too much overexplaining, not enough feeling.
Overall it was enjoyable. It’s not often I pick up a second chance story on purpose, but I don’t regret it.
I do wish there was more consistency in the writing. There was a bad case of sometimes wanting to get too fancy with it — heavily leaning into cheesy territory — which just didn’t fit with the rest of the writing. I would’ve loved it more if it just stuck with what feels more like the author’s ‘natural voice’.
Anyway. Both Zahir and Colt were likeable characters and as far as second chances go, I did feel like they were right for each other, that they were supposed to end up back together.
3.5⭐️
Thank you to GRR for the ARC
Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & content tags ⚠️
High school sweethearts
Second chance
Small town
Muslim MC
EMT x lawyer
Closeted MC
Low angst
⚠️ Spice menu ⚠️
Frantic frotting
Medium burn
Naked drawing session
1.7 🌶️
⚠️ Content warning ⚠️
On-page CPR and resuscitation of child (minor character, survives)
Toxic masculinity (MC’s parent)
Racist minor side character
Alcohol consumption
Explicit sexual content
Bigotry and homophobia (on page)
Homophobia slur
Homophobic parents
Internalized homophobia
Injured MC
⚠️Book safety ⚠️
Cheating: No
Other person drama: No
Breakup: No
POV: 1st person, dual
Genre: Contemporary romance
Pairing: M/M
Strict roles or versatile: Versatile
Main characters’ age: 33 and 33
Series: Interconnected series
Kindle Unlimited: Yes
Pages: 265
Happy ending: Yes
He’s perfect. I don’t want Colton Ross, hotshot lawyer who always has his shit together. I want my Colt, hesitations and fuckups galore.
Like I said, I love my mom. But I have no doubt that she’d be the character in a zombie movie who wouldn’t tell anyone she’d been bitten.
I failed him fifteen years ago, but I can do right by him now and put my own selfish need to be forgiven aside.
You can find most of my reviews on Instagram as well: https://www.instagram.com/booksafety?...
If you like second chance but don’t like angst, look no further. It was very sweet and full of communication and self-awareness. The things I liked about it actually turned into the things I didn’t like *as much* about it. The amount of self-awareness and internal monologue sort of removed all the tension and possible angst. A bit too much overexplaining, not enough feeling.
Overall it was enjoyable. It’s not often I pick up a second chance story on purpose, but I don’t regret it.
I do wish there was more consistency in the writing. There was a bad case of sometimes wanting to get too fancy with it — heavily leaning into cheesy territory — which just didn’t fit with the rest of the writing. I would’ve loved it more if it just stuck with what feels more like the author’s ‘natural voice’.
Anyway. Both Zahir and Colt were likeable characters and as far as second chances go, I did feel like they were right for each other, that they were supposed to end up back together.
3.5⭐️
Thank you to GRR for the ARC
Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & content tags ⚠️
High school sweethearts
Second chance
Small town
Muslim MC
EMT x lawyer
Closeted MC
Low angst
⚠️ Spice menu ⚠️
Frantic frotting
Medium burn
Naked drawing session
1.7 🌶️
⚠️ Content warning ⚠️
On-page CPR and resuscitation of child (minor character, survives)
Toxic masculinity (MC’s parent)
Racist minor side character
Alcohol consumption
Explicit sexual content
Bigotry and homophobia (on page)
Homophobia slur
Homophobic parents
Internalized homophobia
Injured MC
⚠️Book safety ⚠️
Cheating: No
Other person drama: No
Breakup: No
POV: 1st person, dual
Genre: Contemporary romance
Pairing: M/M
Strict roles or versatile: Versatile
Main characters’ age: 33 and 33
Series: Interconnected series
Kindle Unlimited: Yes
Pages: 265
Happy ending: Yes
He’s perfect. I don’t want Colton Ross, hotshot lawyer who always has his shit together. I want my Colt, hesitations and fuckups galore.
Like I said, I love my mom. But I have no doubt that she’d be the character in a zombie movie who wouldn’t tell anyone she’d been bitten.
I failed him fifteen years ago, but I can do right by him now and put my own selfish need to be forgiven aside.
You can find most of my reviews on Instagram as well: https://www.instagram.com/booksafety?...
June 7, 2025
Sugary sweet. I will say yay for diversity! This was a nice read. It’s a read Id read if I was sad. It’s that sweet. I like both characters, and I liked seeing the gang. The writing was great.
June 14, 2025
Amazing!!!
I love Redwood Bay. Zahir and Colt’s story really got me in the feels. Even though I knew where the story was going for a good bit I was still caught up in it and the emotions it pulled from me. I can’t wait for Teddy’s story.
I love Redwood Bay. Zahir and Colt’s story really got me in the feels. Even though I knew where the story was going for a good bit I was still caught up in it and the emotions it pulled from me. I can’t wait for Teddy’s story.
June 15, 2025
*I received an free copy of this book from GRR and the author. This review is my honest onion of the book*
Tropes:-
(from the authors instagram)
🔥 Contemporary MM romance
🔥 Low angst, high heat
🔥 Book two in the found family firefighter series
🔥 Paramedic x lawyer
🔥 Second chance secret high school sweethearts
🔥 Serious grovelling and forgiveness
🔥 Naughty art smeggs
🔥 Sassy grandma knows best
🔥 Oblivious little matchmaker
🔥 Earth shattering revelations
🔥 Rescues! Drama! Heroes!
🔥 Big fat HEA
This is the second book in the series based around the 113 firehouse. Like the first book, this is a sweet romance that continues to build on the found family element that was set up in the first book. I really loved the support chatacters, and the found family vibe, and thought they were well fleshed out and enjoyable without overpowering the main couple.
This is a second chance romance which is one of my fave tropes. Colt left Zahir without saying goodbye to him and ending up breaking Zahir's heart - so basically ghosting him as soon as they left highschool thanks to the pressure from his family/parents. Colt's father especially expected him to follow on his footsteps with a law career and Colt was too scared to come out up him.
However his career ends up bringing him back and crossing paths with Zahir, leading Colt to realise that he still had feelings and wanting to have a second chance at their relationship. Obviously Zahir is wary because of how Colt had hurt him but the feelings are still there on his side. I really liked both mmcs, even if Colt worried me about standing up to his dad for a moment, and the journey of how they came back together and Zahir learnt to trust/forgive Colt. Second chance can be hit and miss, esoecially if one person forgives too easily, but I thought that the author did a good job here. The relationship and the trajectory of it felt believable enough. I liked seeing Zahir come out of himself, and become more confident, as he settled into his relationship and mended the wounds that Colt had left behind.
This book could be read as a standalone but I do think it would read better after reading the first.
Tropes:-
(from the authors instagram)
🔥 Contemporary MM romance
🔥 Low angst, high heat
🔥 Book two in the found family firefighter series
🔥 Paramedic x lawyer
🔥 Second chance secret high school sweethearts
🔥 Serious grovelling and forgiveness
🔥 Naughty art smeggs
🔥 Sassy grandma knows best
🔥 Oblivious little matchmaker
🔥 Earth shattering revelations
🔥 Rescues! Drama! Heroes!
🔥 Big fat HEA
This is the second book in the series based around the 113 firehouse. Like the first book, this is a sweet romance that continues to build on the found family element that was set up in the first book. I really loved the support chatacters, and the found family vibe, and thought they were well fleshed out and enjoyable without overpowering the main couple.
This is a second chance romance which is one of my fave tropes. Colt left Zahir without saying goodbye to him and ending up breaking Zahir's heart - so basically ghosting him as soon as they left highschool thanks to the pressure from his family/parents. Colt's father especially expected him to follow on his footsteps with a law career and Colt was too scared to come out up him.
However his career ends up bringing him back and crossing paths with Zahir, leading Colt to realise that he still had feelings and wanting to have a second chance at their relationship. Obviously Zahir is wary because of how Colt had hurt him but the feelings are still there on his side. I really liked both mmcs, even if Colt worried me about standing up to his dad for a moment, and the journey of how they came back together and Zahir learnt to trust/forgive Colt. Second chance can be hit and miss, esoecially if one person forgives too easily, but I thought that the author did a good job here. The relationship and the trajectory of it felt believable enough. I liked seeing Zahir come out of himself, and become more confident, as he settled into his relationship and mended the wounds that Colt had left behind.
This book could be read as a standalone but I do think it would read better after reading the first.
June 13, 2025
MY OPINION: This is the second book in the series, and it’s very different from the first, but I enjoyed reading it and recommend the series if you like a firefighter/paramedic story.
The premise that these two men were boyfriends in high school, but unfortunately, Colt wasn’t willing to go against his parents, nor come out of the closet. He left the boy he loved following the path his parents set out for him. He wasn’t happy; he simply did as he was told. His parents were small-minded, and he knew his truth would mean he would lose his parents, and it wasn’t a risk he would take.
Zahir thought Colt left because that was the plan all along. He felt used, hurt, and shattered. There was so much pain.
After fifteen years, neither of them ever found what they were looking for, so when they found themselves living in the same small town together, the connection they had was still there. Colt wanted to at least apologize for what he had done. But there was that tug tug tug that kept bringing them back together. The fact was that together they were complete.
Colt still has a lot to work through because he was still in the closet, still under his parents’ thumb, and still afraid to lose their love. Together, they work through their past and look toward their future. There are a lot of very thoughtful moments where they see what they want and have to work for it. There is a little bit of angst, but generally it was a sweet contemporary romance. The spicy bits are mostly suggestive but are a lovely part of the story. The firehouse family is filled with wonderful characters that you want to know more about. Of course, you get a cameo of Lochlan and Dario (plus their doggos).
These are two great guys whom I enjoyed reading about. It’s an easy read, and it was a feel-good story with a lovely HEA. Plenty of fun moments between the characters and their families. I am glad I got the opportunity to read it.
The premise that these two men were boyfriends in high school, but unfortunately, Colt wasn’t willing to go against his parents, nor come out of the closet. He left the boy he loved following the path his parents set out for him. He wasn’t happy; he simply did as he was told. His parents were small-minded, and he knew his truth would mean he would lose his parents, and it wasn’t a risk he would take.
Zahir thought Colt left because that was the plan all along. He felt used, hurt, and shattered. There was so much pain.
After fifteen years, neither of them ever found what they were looking for, so when they found themselves living in the same small town together, the connection they had was still there. Colt wanted to at least apologize for what he had done. But there was that tug tug tug that kept bringing them back together. The fact was that together they were complete.
Colt still has a lot to work through because he was still in the closet, still under his parents’ thumb, and still afraid to lose their love. Together, they work through their past and look toward their future. There are a lot of very thoughtful moments where they see what they want and have to work for it. There is a little bit of angst, but generally it was a sweet contemporary romance. The spicy bits are mostly suggestive but are a lovely part of the story. The firehouse family is filled with wonderful characters that you want to know more about. Of course, you get a cameo of Lochlan and Dario (plus their doggos).
These are two great guys whom I enjoyed reading about. It’s an easy read, and it was a feel-good story with a lovely HEA. Plenty of fun moments between the characters and their families. I am glad I got the opportunity to read it.
May 30, 2025
4.25 stars....
I really enjoyed book 1 and this is a great addition to the series. I am looking forward to book 3 too!.
Colt has left the East Coast to come back to California after his father's health scare. Colt needs to take over the family's law practice to help his dad. He never thought he would have to come home and face the past and his future but here he is. While out in the water he realizes someone is in need of a rescue and he is able to get to the girl but when the fire department and emt's come he certainly never expected to see the one he had to leave behind. Now he is getting the chance to explain what happened.
Responding to call on the beach is not where Zahir thought he would see Colt for the first time in fifteen years. He had no idea he was back, and should not really care. Colt left him in the dust to never hear form him again. But the little girl they helped save wants to thank him with cupcakes and he is talked into taking some to Colt at the law firm. However what started as something to make a little girl happy has now continued to make not only her happy but maybe just maybe Colt and Zahir as well.
Will Colt finally be able to stand up to his family and share who he is? Will the truth put his father's health at risk? Will Zahir accept the truth as to what happened all those years ago? Can the two of them forgive each other and try again? Will Zahir's coworkers help or hinder what is happening? What about Colt's family when they learn the truth?
Nice to be back in Redwood Bay and I am very much looking forward to book 3!
I really enjoyed book 1 and this is a great addition to the series. I am looking forward to book 3 too!.
Colt has left the East Coast to come back to California after his father's health scare. Colt needs to take over the family's law practice to help his dad. He never thought he would have to come home and face the past and his future but here he is. While out in the water he realizes someone is in need of a rescue and he is able to get to the girl but when the fire department and emt's come he certainly never expected to see the one he had to leave behind. Now he is getting the chance to explain what happened.
Responding to call on the beach is not where Zahir thought he would see Colt for the first time in fifteen years. He had no idea he was back, and should not really care. Colt left him in the dust to never hear form him again. But the little girl they helped save wants to thank him with cupcakes and he is talked into taking some to Colt at the law firm. However what started as something to make a little girl happy has now continued to make not only her happy but maybe just maybe Colt and Zahir as well.
Will Colt finally be able to stand up to his family and share who he is? Will the truth put his father's health at risk? Will Zahir accept the truth as to what happened all those years ago? Can the two of them forgive each other and try again? Will Zahir's coworkers help or hinder what is happening? What about Colt's family when they learn the truth?
Nice to be back in Redwood Bay and I am very much looking forward to book 3!
June 4, 2025
I was gifted my copy of this book.
This is book 2 in the Redwood Bay Fire series, and while it's not really neceassary to read book 1, Igniting His Flame, I think you should. If only cos I said so!
Colton left Zahir after they finished high school and they haven't seen each other in 15 years. But one meeting, and Colton knows he never stopped loving Zahir. Zahir isn't sure he can survive Colton leaving again, and Zahir will not go back into the closet. Can they work it out?
I've had a run of these fairly low angst books and I am LOVING them all!
What I especially loved about this one, was the fact that neither Colt or Zahir had really moved on. Oh they'd had other partners, but nothing lasting, just flings and one nights. But meeting each other again, it all comes back and they both realise that they really could never move on.
I loved that they actually talked it out. Once they had done that, they went all in. I loved how Colt stands up to his mum and dad, that really did make me laugh! Portia was amazing, given what she had been dragged into, and I think she flies the rainbow flag too!
It's not ever so steamy, but it's hawt, if that makes sense. Emotional, very, but the angst level is low and I loved that it was.
Loved that Lochlan and Dario pop up. I love this One: Thirteen family!
This is, I believe, Ms Welch's first foray into the world of second chance, and by Jove I think she got it! Keep these guys coming, please, I need more of them in my life!
5 full and shiny stars
*same worded review will appear elsewhere
This is book 2 in the Redwood Bay Fire series, and while it's not really neceassary to read book 1, Igniting His Flame, I think you should. If only cos I said so!
Colton left Zahir after they finished high school and they haven't seen each other in 15 years. But one meeting, and Colton knows he never stopped loving Zahir. Zahir isn't sure he can survive Colton leaving again, and Zahir will not go back into the closet. Can they work it out?
I've had a run of these fairly low angst books and I am LOVING them all!
What I especially loved about this one, was the fact that neither Colt or Zahir had really moved on. Oh they'd had other partners, but nothing lasting, just flings and one nights. But meeting each other again, it all comes back and they both realise that they really could never move on.
I loved that they actually talked it out. Once they had done that, they went all in. I loved how Colt stands up to his mum and dad, that really did make me laugh! Portia was amazing, given what she had been dragged into, and I think she flies the rainbow flag too!
It's not ever so steamy, but it's hawt, if that makes sense. Emotional, very, but the angst level is low and I loved that it was.
Loved that Lochlan and Dario pop up. I love this One: Thirteen family!
This is, I believe, Ms Welch's first foray into the world of second chance, and by Jove I think she got it! Keep these guys coming, please, I need more of them in my life!
5 full and shiny stars
*same worded review will appear elsewhere
June 12, 2025
I would like to thank GRR for the opportunity to read and review this ARC.
Awwwww I really really liked this! Spelling errors aside, I enjoyed the narrative style, the Cali energy, the diversity (shout out to Morocco), Welch's capture of the soul of the artist, and ofc all the SURFING!!!! A quarter of the way through and I already loved Zahir and Colt so much, and my heart was achy and pretty invested in Colt's arc at that point ngl!
And as i'm sure Welch intended, I abhorred the trash characters who used the "f" word here, and I don't mean FK! But as much as Colt's parents et al were bigoted wackadoodles, and their homophobia was soooooo OTT that it was threatening my enjoyment, that low vibe made room for my favourite 3rd act flex-"search and rescue"- which brought all the sigh-worthy love declarations to the fore and out loud and I wasn't mad anymore. In fact i was grinning a lot and loving Zahir and Colt even more, and i may have cooed and cried a touch because my feelings had feelings!
Super special mentions go out to the painting and art studio bit to this, Portia and the Nemos, Preston and his furbaby, Jack, all of One-Thirteen and the crew's furbabies, Smokey the cat and Rocky the Dalmatian puppy!
This was sooo sweet and romantic and i really enjoyed this a lot! I missed the first in this Redwood Bay Fire series, but i'm very happy that i still have Lochlan's story to go back to, and darling Teddy's love story up next to look forward to! Book 3 is gonna be a smokeshow and i absolutely cannot wait to devour it when it drops!
Awwwww I really really liked this! Spelling errors aside, I enjoyed the narrative style, the Cali energy, the diversity (shout out to Morocco), Welch's capture of the soul of the artist, and ofc all the SURFING!!!! A quarter of the way through and I already loved Zahir and Colt so much, and my heart was achy and pretty invested in Colt's arc at that point ngl!
And as i'm sure Welch intended, I abhorred the trash characters who used the "f" word here, and I don't mean FK! But as much as Colt's parents et al were bigoted wackadoodles, and their homophobia was soooooo OTT that it was threatening my enjoyment, that low vibe made room for my favourite 3rd act flex-"search and rescue"- which brought all the sigh-worthy love declarations to the fore and out loud and I wasn't mad anymore. In fact i was grinning a lot and loving Zahir and Colt even more, and i may have cooed and cried a touch because my feelings had feelings!
Super special mentions go out to the painting and art studio bit to this, Portia and the Nemos, Preston and his furbaby, Jack, all of One-Thirteen and the crew's furbabies, Smokey the cat and Rocky the Dalmatian puppy!
This was sooo sweet and romantic and i really enjoyed this a lot! I missed the first in this Redwood Bay Fire series, but i'm very happy that i still have Lochlan's story to go back to, and darling Teddy's love story up next to look forward to! Book 3 is gonna be a smokeshow and i absolutely cannot wait to devour it when it drops!
May 31, 2025
**********Contains Spoilers**********
I really enjoyed this book and thought that it was a good addition to the Redwood Bay Fire Series. I’m glad that Colt & Zahir found their way back to each other, their happily ever after was definitely well worth the wait. I thought that Colt and Zahir were great together and their chemistry was completely off the charts, as well as hot as hell. Colt has so much guilt with the way he left Redwood Bay and Zahir at 17 years old and hasn’t been back since, well until now. He not only broke his own heart but Zahir’s as well.
Colt’s parents put a lot of pressure on him, he’s conformed to meet a lot of their expectations, even though he’s pretty lonely and unhappy. I’m so glad that he not only got to reconnected with Zahir, he made some true friends instead of just surface ones and is now living as his authentic self. I love the One-Thirteen crew and I’m looking forward to reading some of their stories as the series continues. It’s Teddy’s turn next. I’ve pre-ordered his book, Striking the Match which I’m looking forward to reading when it’s released, as well as more books from HJ Welch in the future. I’d definitely recommend this book, series and author to everyone.
******I received a complimentary copy of this book through GRR. I would still happily review this book even if I purchased it myself. My thoughts and feelings about this book are completely unbiased******
I really enjoyed this book and thought that it was a good addition to the Redwood Bay Fire Series. I’m glad that Colt & Zahir found their way back to each other, their happily ever after was definitely well worth the wait. I thought that Colt and Zahir were great together and their chemistry was completely off the charts, as well as hot as hell. Colt has so much guilt with the way he left Redwood Bay and Zahir at 17 years old and hasn’t been back since, well until now. He not only broke his own heart but Zahir’s as well.
Colt’s parents put a lot of pressure on him, he’s conformed to meet a lot of their expectations, even though he’s pretty lonely and unhappy. I’m so glad that he not only got to reconnected with Zahir, he made some true friends instead of just surface ones and is now living as his authentic self. I love the One-Thirteen crew and I’m looking forward to reading some of their stories as the series continues. It’s Teddy’s turn next. I’ve pre-ordered his book, Striking the Match which I’m looking forward to reading when it’s released, as well as more books from HJ Welch in the future. I’d definitely recommend this book, series and author to everyone.
******I received a complimentary copy of this book through GRR. I would still happily review this book even if I purchased it myself. My thoughts and feelings about this book are completely unbiased******
June 14, 2025
A SWEET LOW ANGST SECOND CHANCE ROMANCE!💕
Two high school friends to lovers paths got divided for fifteen years when Colton Ross 18 left Zahir Delacroix 18 behind in Redwood Bay with only a note saying: “I’ll never forget you”
“I feel like a moth being drawn to the flame. If I’m not careful, I’ll find myself reduced to a pile of blackened ashes. It’s up to me if I let those ashes go cold. Or if I rise from them like a phoenix, reborn.”
Fifteen years later Colton 33 returns to Redwood Bay to work at his father’s law firm while he recovers from ill health and while surfing one morning he sees his lost love Zahir 33 now the Lead Paramedic while saving a little drowned girl… who later will become the catalyst to their second chance love!
Will Colt ever step out of the closet?
Will Zahir ever forgive him?
This is a sweet, heartfelt second chance love story about redemption, forgiveness and overcoming internalised homophobia to live your life true to yourself and not what your parents groomed you to be…
I loved the found family aspect of Fire House Station one thirteen and how they accept and embrace diversity in all aspects!
Teta Delacroix was a force to be reckoned with but she does have a soft heart where her grandson and Colt is concerned…
A sweet epilogue rounds off their story with heartfelt and sweet moments.
Probie Teddy and his older celebrity crush is up next…
I voluntarily received an ARC from GRR for an honest non biased review.
Two high school friends to lovers paths got divided for fifteen years when Colton Ross 18 left Zahir Delacroix 18 behind in Redwood Bay with only a note saying: “I’ll never forget you”
“I feel like a moth being drawn to the flame. If I’m not careful, I’ll find myself reduced to a pile of blackened ashes. It’s up to me if I let those ashes go cold. Or if I rise from them like a phoenix, reborn.”
Fifteen years later Colton 33 returns to Redwood Bay to work at his father’s law firm while he recovers from ill health and while surfing one morning he sees his lost love Zahir 33 now the Lead Paramedic while saving a little drowned girl… who later will become the catalyst to their second chance love!
Will Colt ever step out of the closet?
Will Zahir ever forgive him?
This is a sweet, heartfelt second chance love story about redemption, forgiveness and overcoming internalised homophobia to live your life true to yourself and not what your parents groomed you to be…
I loved the found family aspect of Fire House Station one thirteen and how they accept and embrace diversity in all aspects!
Teta Delacroix was a force to be reckoned with but she does have a soft heart where her grandson and Colt is concerned…
A sweet epilogue rounds off their story with heartfelt and sweet moments.
Probie Teddy and his older celebrity crush is up next…
I voluntarily received an ARC from GRR for an honest non biased review.
June 22, 2025
Colt and Zahir's story was a sweet second-chance romance between two former high school best friends. For Zahir, Colt was the one who got away, the man who had shattered his heart and left him unwilling to open himself up to another relationship. Showing up to a rescue and finding Colt at the scene was the last thing he'd expected, and his return kickstarted a whirlwind of previously suppressed emotions. As Colt tried to make amends for his past actions, I couldn't help but have empathy for how trapped he'd felt as a high schooler forced to walk the path his parents had chosen. I was excited when it seemed like he and Zahir might rekindle things, and as they spent more time together I only grew more certain that they were meant to be. Zahir and Colt accepted each other exactly as they were, made each other happy with no strings attached. Their biggest conflict was never about their love for one another, it was centered around the external pressures preventing Colt from coming out. I was really proud of how much Colt grew into himself throughout this book, and seeing him overcome his impulse to hide away anything that wasn't society's epitome of masculine heterosexuality spoke volumes about his inner confidence. Nothing made me happier than seeing him and Zahir claim each other out in the open, and their celebratory epilogue was a fantastic sendoff.
**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.
June 16, 2025
This was a cute romance story, with two likable characters. The only place it didn't work for me was some of the conflict.
Zahir and Colt are secret high school sweethearts who ended when Colt abruptly left for college without any explanation to Zahir. 15 years later, Colt moves back to Redwood Bay and almost immediately runs into Zahir again, reawakening the feelings neither of them ever fully got over.
I really liked both Zahir and Colt, along with being back with the zany first shift of the Redwood Bay fire department! Zahir was an absolute sweetheart, and I was rooting for him the whole time. I did really like Colt, but he definitely did some things that were irritating. His utter refusal to have any sort of discussion about his sexuality with his parents as a whole adult was frustrating, and it led to more ridiculous things happening. When he was with Zahir I absolutely loved him (and them together), but he would be alone and then start the whole saga over again.
This is a very cute second chance romance, and I am looking forward to more books in this series. There were just some things that could have been tightened up to make this book excellent.
CW: sexual content, medical content, homophobia, toxic parents, injured child (makes full recovery!), almost drowning (not MC)
Zahir and Colt are secret high school sweethearts who ended when Colt abruptly left for college without any explanation to Zahir. 15 years later, Colt moves back to Redwood Bay and almost immediately runs into Zahir again, reawakening the feelings neither of them ever fully got over.
I really liked both Zahir and Colt, along with being back with the zany first shift of the Redwood Bay fire department! Zahir was an absolute sweetheart, and I was rooting for him the whole time. I did really like Colt, but he definitely did some things that were irritating. His utter refusal to have any sort of discussion about his sexuality with his parents as a whole adult was frustrating, and it led to more ridiculous things happening. When he was with Zahir I absolutely loved him (and them together), but he would be alone and then start the whole saga over again.
This is a very cute second chance romance, and I am looking forward to more books in this series. There were just some things that could have been tightened up to make this book excellent.
CW: sexual content, medical content, homophobia, toxic parents, injured child (makes full recovery!), almost drowning (not MC)
June 20, 2025
I enjoyed the second book in this series as much as the first! I loved Colt and Zahir’s second chance romance, and seeing everyone from the One-Thirteen again. Found family is one of my favourite tropes, and this story delivered all of that and more.
This story is very much about family and expectations, with Colt’s family ruining his life in the process and clinging to their ideals almost to the end of the story. It was easy to see why he’d caved to pressure when he was younger, and even now it takes him a while to find the courage to be true to himself, and to his and Zahir’s relationship. Zahir’s romantic gesture, and Colt’s are perfect on so many levels.
I loved their meeting again, and how that led to them rekindling their friendship and more. I thought their fear of doing so was understandable, especially when Colt takes a while to explain his actions, past and present.
Zahir’s grandmother is wonderful. I loved how protective she is of Zahir, and yet is open to change too. Portia rocks on so many levels. I loved how she came in as a trope and within minutes turned all that upside down.
I also enjoyed the action/drama part of the story and seeing Zahir and the One-Thirteen in action especially when it gets personal. I’m looking forward to book three.
This story is very much about family and expectations, with Colt’s family ruining his life in the process and clinging to their ideals almost to the end of the story. It was easy to see why he’d caved to pressure when he was younger, and even now it takes him a while to find the courage to be true to himself, and to his and Zahir’s relationship. Zahir’s romantic gesture, and Colt’s are perfect on so many levels.
I loved their meeting again, and how that led to them rekindling their friendship and more. I thought their fear of doing so was understandable, especially when Colt takes a while to explain his actions, past and present.
Zahir’s grandmother is wonderful. I loved how protective she is of Zahir, and yet is open to change too. Portia rocks on so many levels. I loved how she came in as a trope and within minutes turned all that upside down.
I also enjoyed the action/drama part of the story and seeing Zahir and the One-Thirteen in action especially when it gets personal. I’m looking forward to book three.
June 8, 2025
I really like the second-chance romance and its angsty vibes.
Spice factor was open door, but it was not concentrated on that despite them quickly getting back into being physical with one another. I mark this as 2 for me. The whole found family of the One-Thirteen made me want to be part of the family.
Portia became a full one star worthy, pushing this story into a 5-star book. She deserves her own HEA, and as it has been suggested perhaps Preston is the one.
Lastly I hated the homophobia within Colt’s family. My heart hurts when I read about it in active terms, but being an MM romance reader, it’s difficult to avoid such a trigger.
Surprisingly I really loved Colt and Zahir even though I picked up this book as I simply wanted to read more books from authors who will be at ShiMMer this year. This was a good standalone. I look forward to Teddy’s story, but I had really thought Dray was next with how his story was setting up meanwhile perhaps I will read the first book from the series while I wait.
Spice factor was open door, but it was not concentrated on that despite them quickly getting back into being physical with one another. I mark this as 2 for me. The whole found family of the One-Thirteen made me want to be part of the family.
Portia became a full one star worthy, pushing this story into a 5-star book. She deserves her own HEA, and as it has been suggested perhaps Preston is the one.
Lastly I hated the homophobia within Colt’s family. My heart hurts when I read about it in active terms, but being an MM romance reader, it’s difficult to avoid such a trigger.
Surprisingly I really loved Colt and Zahir even though I picked up this book as I simply wanted to read more books from authors who will be at ShiMMer this year. This was a good standalone. I look forward to Teddy’s story, but I had really thought Dray was next with how his story was setting up meanwhile perhaps I will read the first book from the series while I wait.
June 16, 2025
From the Ashes was sugary sweet in the best way—one of those comfort reads you’d reach for when you need something low angst and full of heart. Zahir and Colt’s second chance romance had me feeling all the things, even when I could see where the story was headed. The emotions still hit, and I was 100% here for it.
I loved being back in Redwood Bay. The found family vibes around the 113 firehouse are strong and so well done, and I really enjoyed seeing the gang again (especially Grandma—iconic). Colt and Zahir were both super likeable, and I appreciated that their journey felt real. There was grovelling, forgiveness, some spicy art shenanigans (you’ll see), and a whole lot of emotional healing. I’m a sucker for the high school sweethearts-to-strangers-to-lovers trope, and this one delivered with the right balance of sweet and steamy.
Also: yay for diversity and actual grown-up communication! I’m already looking forward to Teddy’s story—he deserves the world.
If you want a cozy, feel-good MM romance with just the right amount of heat and heart, this one’s a solid pick.
I loved being back in Redwood Bay. The found family vibes around the 113 firehouse are strong and so well done, and I really enjoyed seeing the gang again (especially Grandma—iconic). Colt and Zahir were both super likeable, and I appreciated that their journey felt real. There was grovelling, forgiveness, some spicy art shenanigans (you’ll see), and a whole lot of emotional healing. I’m a sucker for the high school sweethearts-to-strangers-to-lovers trope, and this one delivered with the right balance of sweet and steamy.
Also: yay for diversity and actual grown-up communication! I’m already looking forward to Teddy’s story—he deserves the world.
If you want a cozy, feel-good MM romance with just the right amount of heat and heart, this one’s a solid pick.
May 31, 2025
sorry of Colt and Zahir
This is a second chance romance, featuring Colt and Zahir, and is book two in the Redwood Bay Fire series.
Colt returns to his home town to take over his father’s law practice, only to be confronted by the love he left behind—Zahir, the boy Colt never stopped loving but was too afraid to choose. As old feelings resurface, both men must face the pain of the past and decide if love is worth risking everything again, even when the world still wants to keep them apart.
This story was so sweet, these two men were meant to be together. It is pretty low angst, even with the little bit of drama towards the end, and I was so happy with their HEA.
Things to expect in this book are:
Book 2 in series
MM romance
Small town
Lawyer x Paramedic
Second chance at first love
High school sweethearts
Unresolved feelings
Closeted MC
Bigoted parents
Reconnecting
Spicy times
Coming out
Little bit of drama
Found family
HEA
This is a second chance romance, featuring Colt and Zahir, and is book two in the Redwood Bay Fire series.
Colt returns to his home town to take over his father’s law practice, only to be confronted by the love he left behind—Zahir, the boy Colt never stopped loving but was too afraid to choose. As old feelings resurface, both men must face the pain of the past and decide if love is worth risking everything again, even when the world still wants to keep them apart.
This story was so sweet, these two men were meant to be together. It is pretty low angst, even with the little bit of drama towards the end, and I was so happy with their HEA.
Things to expect in this book are:
Book 2 in series
MM romance
Small town
Lawyer x Paramedic
Second chance at first love
High school sweethearts
Unresolved feelings
Closeted MC
Bigoted parents
Reconnecting
Spicy times
Coming out
Little bit of drama
Found family
HEA
June 1, 2025
A great book two in a wonderful series set at a fire station at the beach. I love second chance love stories as it is great to see how folks seek and get forgiveness for their bad decisions (Colt) and how someone learns to forgive and trust again (Zahir). The premise of this wonderful book is Colt ghosted Zahir after high school and is now back town after fifteen years. Seems Colt was not strong enough to stand up to his father who had plans and expectations for Colt--get married and live the society live. With that plan not working out and him back in town he reconnects with Zahir the man he has always loved, but he has much work to do to get Zahir to forgive and trust him again. Despite that both men have lived unfilled lives there is some hesitant to forgive and trust. I will admit this heartwarming book made me shed some happy love tears. A great read. I did receive an ARC and leave this honest review.
June 14, 2025
Umi & Sora, "the crossword ", squashed rainbow cupcakes, Barbie-pink Civic, Lady Gaga, Ocean & Sunshine, charcoal study, redwoods & palms, avocado hosomaki
Another wonderful book in the "Redwood Bay Fire" series. The characters are wacky but highly likable. Portia Bamford is awesome! I wish there was more of Mrs. Bloom and Ms. Margot Fonteyn. All three of them need more scene time.
Colt's and Zahir's romance is twenty years in the making. It began in middle school. But, after graduation, Colt ghosted Zahir for fifteen years. Colt is back in Redwood Bay because his father had a heart attack and three bypasses. Zahir is rightfully pissed at Colt for the years of radio silence. But things aren't always as they seem.
I enjoyed this installment just as much as Book 1. Of course, we see the same zany bunch, and a few new faces. Of note are the animals. The story reads smoothly and is very steamy. I readily recommend this book.
Another wonderful book in the "Redwood Bay Fire" series. The characters are wacky but highly likable. Portia Bamford is awesome! I wish there was more of Mrs. Bloom and Ms. Margot Fonteyn. All three of them need more scene time.
Colt's and Zahir's romance is twenty years in the making. It began in middle school. But, after graduation, Colt ghosted Zahir for fifteen years. Colt is back in Redwood Bay because his father had a heart attack and three bypasses. Zahir is rightfully pissed at Colt for the years of radio silence. But things aren't always as they seem.
I enjoyed this installment just as much as Book 1. Of course, we see the same zany bunch, and a few new faces. Of note are the animals. The story reads smoothly and is very steamy. I readily recommend this book.
June 15, 2025
This is book two in the author’s Redwood Bay Fire series and features Redwood Bay Fire Department’s lead paramedic, Zahir Delacroix and his best friend and boyfriend from high school, lawyer, Colt, who had snuck away leaving nothing behind but a note for fifteen years. Back now due to his father’s health, can Colt ever hope for Zahir to forgive him?
While this book was relatively low heat, it was big on emotional connections and pining—so much so that I didn’t feel like I’d missed out on anything which is unusual as I prefer lots of steam but it was perfect as it was. A total standalone, it doesn’t need anything else to make it complete but, with that said, it reminded me of how good book one, Igniting His Flame, was and made me want to go back and read it again. Not necessary but it’ll definitely add to your reading pleasure. 100% recommend. 5 stars!
I received a copy of this book for free but am voluntarily leaving a review.
While this book was relatively low heat, it was big on emotional connections and pining—so much so that I didn’t feel like I’d missed out on anything which is unusual as I prefer lots of steam but it was perfect as it was. A total standalone, it doesn’t need anything else to make it complete but, with that said, it reminded me of how good book one, Igniting His Flame, was and made me want to go back and read it again. Not necessary but it’ll definitely add to your reading pleasure. 100% recommend. 5 stars!
I received a copy of this book for free but am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 2, 2025
I love a second chance romance.
Colt's parents had his life planned out even before he left the hospital. Graduate high school as valedictorian, attend Harvard and Harvard Law, marry and have 2.5 children before thirty, and take over Ross & Associates. They begrudgingly allowed him to join the debate team and be class president because that would reflect well on college applications. None of that appealed to Colt. Colt was gay and in love with Zahir.
Colt was desperate for his parent's approval, but there were always strings attached. He may have escaped to the East coast, but he has been pulled back. He has always been greatly ashamed about how he snuck out of town on Zahir, then ghosted him. Now that he's back in town, a chance encounter on Redwood Bay Beach gives two a chance to reconnect and maybe get a second chance.
Colt's parents had his life planned out even before he left the hospital. Graduate high school as valedictorian, attend Harvard and Harvard Law, marry and have 2.5 children before thirty, and take over Ross & Associates. They begrudgingly allowed him to join the debate team and be class president because that would reflect well on college applications. None of that appealed to Colt. Colt was gay and in love with Zahir.
Colt was desperate for his parent's approval, but there were always strings attached. He may have escaped to the East coast, but he has been pulled back. He has always been greatly ashamed about how he snuck out of town on Zahir, then ghosted him. Now that he's back in town, a chance encounter on Redwood Bay Beach gives two a chance to reconnect and maybe get a second chance.
June 14, 2025
Thank you for the book, here is my honest opinion:
Loved it. This had a perfect blend of heart and heat, this couple was really believable together. I don’t always enjoy second chance romance because of the drama and tension. With Colt and Zahir, the author manages to avoid too much hostility which I appreciate. It has plenty of emotion, hurt feelings, and eventually, forgiveness - it’s very well executed. This author also writes top notch steam and Zahir and Colt definitely didn’t lose their chemistry in their time apart. I think Colt’s parents get off easy, because they are pretty awful. The Japanese restaurant fiasco was epic, and I loved the assist from Portia- she was amazing! It also has a genuinely satisfying ending, loved it a lot! The previous book was also a standout- an excellent series!
Loved it. This had a perfect blend of heart and heat, this couple was really believable together. I don’t always enjoy second chance romance because of the drama and tension. With Colt and Zahir, the author manages to avoid too much hostility which I appreciate. It has plenty of emotion, hurt feelings, and eventually, forgiveness - it’s very well executed. This author also writes top notch steam and Zahir and Colt definitely didn’t lose their chemistry in their time apart. I think Colt’s parents get off easy, because they are pretty awful. The Japanese restaurant fiasco was epic, and I loved the assist from Portia- she was amazing! It also has a genuinely satisfying ending, loved it a lot! The previous book was also a standout- an excellent series!
June 14, 2025
This was such a beautiful second chance romance!
Colt and Zahir have a complicated history that ended in heartbreak when they were teenagers. Colt’s father forced him to stay closeted, leading to a painful breakup that left Zahir deeply hurt. Now, years later, Colt is learning to break free from the expectations that once held him back—and maybe, just maybe, he can earn a second chance with the man he never stopped loving.
Zahir doesn’t want anything to do with Colt at first—and honestly, who could blame him? But watching these two reconnect, uncover old truths, and navigate their future was incredibly moving. It was a story of love and feeling less focused on spice.
The world-building was solid, and the secondary characters added so much to the story—especially the kids! They were absolutely heartwarming.
This was my first read by this author, but it definitely won’t be my last!
Colt and Zahir have a complicated history that ended in heartbreak when they were teenagers. Colt’s father forced him to stay closeted, leading to a painful breakup that left Zahir deeply hurt. Now, years later, Colt is learning to break free from the expectations that once held him back—and maybe, just maybe, he can earn a second chance with the man he never stopped loving.
Zahir doesn’t want anything to do with Colt at first—and honestly, who could blame him? But watching these two reconnect, uncover old truths, and navigate their future was incredibly moving. It was a story of love and feeling less focused on spice.
The world-building was solid, and the secondary characters added so much to the story—especially the kids! They were absolutely heartwarming.
This was my first read by this author, but it definitely won’t be my last!
June 16, 2025
Hearts can mend, can souls? Zahir and Colt were in love in high school. Colt, was deep in the closet and had was trapped in meeting his Parents's expectations. He ghosted Zahir and existed for 15 years. When they meet again, they individually realize their feelings haven't changed, neither have the circumstances. Now they are grown men, professionally successful. They meet again as adults with the same challengs as before. The author has given us a story of deep intense feelings that are suppressed but are seeping out. We watch the struggle of owning one's truth and having the courage to accept it and embrace it. Fantastic story of truth and growth. Zahir and Colt are two men who don't realize their courage. Well done! Hot cover art! Nicely done. I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 21, 2025
When Colt returns home to care for his parents after his father’s health scare, he doesn’t expect to run into the one person he never stopped thinking about — Zahir.
Years ago, Colt walked away from the man he loved, too scared to face what it meant to truly accept himself. Hiding Zahir had felt like the only way to protect them both — but in the process, he broke both their hearts.
Now, with Colt back in town and Zahir still very much a part of the community, their paths are bound to cross. The question is, can the love they once shared survive the wounds of the past? Or will old fears keep Colt from embracing the life — and the man — he was always meant to have?
In a town full of memories, Colt and Zahir must decide: is it too late for a second chance... or is love worth the risk, even now?
Years ago, Colt walked away from the man he loved, too scared to face what it meant to truly accept himself. Hiding Zahir had felt like the only way to protect them both — but in the process, he broke both their hearts.
Now, with Colt back in town and Zahir still very much a part of the community, their paths are bound to cross. The question is, can the love they once shared survive the wounds of the past? Or will old fears keep Colt from embracing the life — and the man — he was always meant to have?
In a town full of memories, Colt and Zahir must decide: is it too late for a second chance... or is love worth the risk, even now?
November 15, 2025
DNF @ 10%
Colton's intro was sooooo dull. Did we need to that much info dumped onto us? The intro boring me to death by being 4 pages of just exposition was a bad sign.
I was so disappointed to read that Colton left Zahir in the most cliche and infuriating way possible (aka just leaving a note then ghosting).
I DNFed when Colton started info dumping his history with Zahir and the things that led to their initial separation. Why the author chose to deliver that to us in a long internal monologue, I will not understand, but I will DNF because not only was it the second time in three chapters that it happened (8 of the first 22 pages were just walls of text giving exposition) it was BORING. Have Colton hash it out with Zahir in an emotional convo or have him explain it to some third party (not a fan of this option personally, but it's better than 5+ pages of internal monologuing)
Colton's intro was sooooo dull. Did we need to that much info dumped onto us? The intro boring me to death by being 4 pages of just exposition was a bad sign.
I was so disappointed to read that Colton left Zahir in the most cliche and infuriating way possible (aka just leaving a note then ghosting).
I DNFed when Colton started info dumping his history with Zahir and the things that led to their initial separation. Why the author chose to deliver that to us in a long internal monologue, I will not understand, but I will DNF because not only was it the second time in three chapters that it happened (8 of the first 22 pages were just walls of text giving exposition) it was BORING. Have Colton hash it out with Zahir in an emotional convo or have him explain it to some third party (not a fan of this option personally, but it's better than 5+ pages of internal monologuing)
May 30, 2025
I have a weakness for second chances, especially ones like this. I knew it would be worth reading because HJ Welch just doesn’t disappoint with the characters. Colt and Zahir have a history that ended in heartbreak on both sides. The only question now is can Colt be brave and strong enough to finally be the person his father has forced into the closet? Can he mend both his and Zahir’s hearts? Gah! This story was good. Colt hurt the other man badly by his actions all those years ago and Zahir isn’t ready to ever be near the man again, let alone give him a chance. Watching these two reconnect and realize the truth between them was very moving and well worth a read. It was so good. It made me tear up once or twice but it was also very heartwarming.
June 8, 2025
I’m a sucker for the ex lover reconnecting trope and this book was so sweet! I love those 2 idiots, trying to navigate their adult life while still thinking of their teenage big love.
I love seeing more of the fire station’s family (with a mix of familiar and new faces) and I love meeting Colt. His struggles with his family broke my heart but it made his evolution even better. I was so proud of him during the restaurant scene! And the girl was a great addition while avoiding big cliches!
There were a lot of scenes that melted my heart: the tattoo, their second kiss, everything about Zahir’s paintings, his grandma, the end on the beach…
I had a really sweet time (in the middle of a crappy week) with those 2 and I can’t wait to see what’s next for the One Thirteen!
I love seeing more of the fire station’s family (with a mix of familiar and new faces) and I love meeting Colt. His struggles with his family broke my heart but it made his evolution even better. I was so proud of him during the restaurant scene! And the girl was a great addition while avoiding big cliches!
There were a lot of scenes that melted my heart: the tattoo, their second kiss, everything about Zahir’s paintings, his grandma, the end on the beach…
I had a really sweet time (in the middle of a crappy week) with those 2 and I can’t wait to see what’s next for the One Thirteen!
July 20, 2025
I loved the first book in the series, but I really really struggled to finish this one.
First of all, this book was still riddled with grammatical errors. Practically every chapter had a sentence that was wrong somehow.
Second, the characters were lacking personality to me. There's one single mention of Zahir's family being Muslim, and that's it. It felt like the authors decided to give him an "exotic" background just for the sake of it and not follow through on it. Colt's journey was interesting at least but I still found their relationship to be a bit ... boring.
Now for the reason I did end up giving it 3 stars, I did love the fire station scenes! The scenes in both this book and the previous one feel very much inspired by the TV show 9-1-1! Which is a good thing to me.
First of all, this book was still riddled with grammatical errors. Practically every chapter had a sentence that was wrong somehow.
Second, the characters were lacking personality to me. There's one single mention of Zahir's family being Muslim, and that's it. It felt like the authors decided to give him an "exotic" background just for the sake of it and not follow through on it. Colt's journey was interesting at least but I still found their relationship to be a bit ... boring.
Now for the reason I did end up giving it 3 stars, I did love the fire station scenes! The scenes in both this book and the previous one feel very much inspired by the TV show 9-1-1! Which is a good thing to me.
May 31, 2025
Colt and Zahir story was an emotional roller-coaster with a second chance at love, forgiveness, and shenanigans.
After years of painful separation, fate gives them the chance to mend the wounds and to be truthful to their desires with the help of good-natured friends and found family.
They have numerous hurdles along the way and a life changing experience that tips the balance in their favour.
I liked seeing old characters and their support for the blossoming connection, as well as the way they accept new ones in their field.
I really enjoyed the story, and I’m looking forward to seeing what happens next.
After years of painful separation, fate gives them the chance to mend the wounds and to be truthful to their desires with the help of good-natured friends and found family.
They have numerous hurdles along the way and a life changing experience that tips the balance in their favour.
I liked seeing old characters and their support for the blossoming connection, as well as the way they accept new ones in their field.
I really enjoyed the story, and I’m looking forward to seeing what happens next.
June 1, 2025
Colt honestly just kinda broke my heart. He wanted to be someone who he wasn't because he wanted his parents to be proud of him and it honestly made him miserable in the process, and that was just the saddest thing. I hated that for him. I loved when he and Zahir ultimately talked and reconnected though because it felt like they really were meant for one another. And even though neither intended to wait for each other, it felt like they were waiting to fall back into each other's orbit at the same time. It was a really interesting read, different from the first, and I'm excited to see what else the department will do next!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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