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Bring the Heat #3
From the Ashes
Phoenix
I was the best bronc rider on the circuit, but being openly bisexual wasn’t an option unless I wanted my talent overshadowed by my orientation. I thought I was the only one keeping my cards close to my chest, until our eyes met across the bonfire, and I knew he shared the same secret I did. Walker DeVille may have bested me in the ring that night, but I’d give him a ride he’d never forget.
And then he lied.
And that lie cost me everything. When Walker turns back up in my life, there’s no denying that same electrifying chemistry is there, but I learned my lesson, and where the fire once burned, there’s nothing left but ashes.
Walker
The first time I saw Phoenix Harding ride, I was smitten. But cowboys like me aren’t supposed to feel the way I do about other men. That’s the unspoken rule. The expectation. The understanding if you find yourself in my shoes. So, when Phoenix followed me into the darkness, away from the fire, I knew he knew what I was hiding.
Part of it at least.
One night with him gave me the wings I needed to soar above the guilt trying to drag me down.
But my salvation cost him everything. And when I have nowhere else to turn years later, it’s Phoenix who saves me yet again. He’s adamant that I blew our only chance…that nothing remains between us.
But he’s wrong.
He watched us burn, and now he’ll watch as we rise from the ashes.
I was the best bronc rider on the circuit, but being openly bisexual wasn’t an option unless I wanted my talent overshadowed by my orientation. I thought I was the only one keeping my cards close to my chest, until our eyes met across the bonfire, and I knew he shared the same secret I did. Walker DeVille may have bested me in the ring that night, but I’d give him a ride he’d never forget.
And then he lied.
And that lie cost me everything. When Walker turns back up in my life, there’s no denying that same electrifying chemistry is there, but I learned my lesson, and where the fire once burned, there’s nothing left but ashes.
Walker
The first time I saw Phoenix Harding ride, I was smitten. But cowboys like me aren’t supposed to feel the way I do about other men. That’s the unspoken rule. The expectation. The understanding if you find yourself in my shoes. So, when Phoenix followed me into the darkness, away from the fire, I knew he knew what I was hiding.
Part of it at least.
One night with him gave me the wings I needed to soar above the guilt trying to drag me down.
But my salvation cost him everything. And when I have nowhere else to turn years later, it’s Phoenix who saves me yet again. He’s adamant that I blew our only chance…that nothing remains between us.
But he’s wrong.
He watched us burn, and now he’ll watch as we rise from the ashes.
372 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 20, 2025
193 people are currently reading
617 people want to read
About the author
Jillian D. Wray
16 books125 followersJillian lives in North Carolina with her incredibly supportive husband and three awesome stepkids. After over ten years in the healthcare industry, it was time to pursue a new passion. An avid reader her whole life, she sat down one night and let the words begin to flow. Four hours and ten thousand words later, a love of writing was discovered.
She writes spicy, bingeable reads that encourage self-discovery and come with all the angst and excitement of a new relationship.
When she isn’t reading or writing, you can either find her in her vegetable garden, at CrossFit™, or on a plane headed toward her next adventure.
She writes spicy, bingeable reads that encourage self-discovery and come with all the angst and excitement of a new relationship.
When she isn’t reading or writing, you can either find her in her vegetable garden, at CrossFit™, or on a plane headed toward her next adventure.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 126 reviews
June 30, 2025
Sigh, one day I'll find the firefighter book of my dreams.... I'm convinced it has to be out there somewhere... unfortunately, this one was not my white whale.
This started off perfectly okay, in the way that easily consumable and pulpy romances tend to be. I was actually enjoying the novelty of a cowboy romance quite a bit early on but the wheels came off for me about half way through. I'll speak more about where it lost me under the cut because I can't really explain it without slipping into spoilers.
Walker and Phoenix are both young, rival, hot shot Bronco riders who share one hot and heavy night before they are due to compete against each other for the championship title the next day. Unfortunately, Pheonix' ride goes catastrophically wrong and he incurs a career ending injury and spends the next 8 years thinking about that night and blaming Walker for his injury and the end of his career, until they have an opportunity to reconnect and an opportunity for a second chance.
I read this book without having read the first two and it is totally accessible without reading them. Each book features a different couple (MM and MF) linked to a friend group and the world builds on each subsequent instalment.
The things that really didn't work for me....
Considering how much I complained (lol) I didn't hate all of my time with this book, but I am glad to be able to move on to something else now. The bronco riding was easily the most interesting part. The ending of Pheonix' and Walkers story was completely predictable and a bit saccharine for my tastes but was fun enough and consistent with the tone of the book. ALSO THE FIRE FIGHTING PART BARELY PLAYED A ROLE. BAH HUMBUG.
This started off perfectly okay, in the way that easily consumable and pulpy romances tend to be. I was actually enjoying the novelty of a cowboy romance quite a bit early on but the wheels came off for me about half way through. I'll speak more about where it lost me under the cut because I can't really explain it without slipping into spoilers.
Walker and Phoenix are both young, rival, hot shot Bronco riders who share one hot and heavy night before they are due to compete against each other for the championship title the next day. Unfortunately, Pheonix' ride goes catastrophically wrong and he incurs a career ending injury and spends the next 8 years thinking about that night and blaming Walker for his injury and the end of his career, until they have an opportunity to reconnect and an opportunity for a second chance.
I read this book without having read the first two and it is totally accessible without reading them. Each book features a different couple (MM and MF) linked to a friend group and the world builds on each subsequent instalment.
The things that really didn't work for me....
Considering how much I complained (lol) I didn't hate all of my time with this book, but I am glad to be able to move on to something else now. The bronco riding was easily the most interesting part. The ending of Pheonix' and Walkers story was completely predictable and a bit saccharine for my tastes but was fun enough and consistent with the tone of the book. ALSO THE FIRE FIGHTING PART BARELY PLAYED A ROLE. BAH HUMBUG.
June 23, 2025
I NEED THE NEXT BOOK RIGHT NOW!!
these are so good 😭😭
these are so good 😭😭
January 27, 2026
This story wasn't good.
For me personally, it sucked, big time.
But for anyone interested, Dylan and Jake are married already. They've eloped, got married, they're quite present in this book. I liked it.
I also read the parts where they're present in Hudson's book and they remain the best couple in the series through and through.
🟣 Both rodeo champions, one retired
🔵 Age gap 18/20 and 26/28
🟡 Some size difference
🟢 Gay (closet) / bisexual (closet)
🟠 After their first meet-up up until 50% the story is pretty good, then it tanks
🌶️ First time good, other times a little boring; rimming, oral, frotting, penetrative; t/b -->both vers
It was a good start and I really liked it at first. Phoenix and Walker look and sound amazing in the first half, but their story wasn't good overall.
Phoenix is a rodeo champion, he's one of the best riders out there, a legend, while Walker is a young guy just starting out. They meet when Walker takes the win from Phoenix and they hook up.
I don't like the cover, so I tried to imagine Phoenix and Walker together and did it all before I got to the second half of the book, so here you go
There were so many things that didn’t sit right with me in this book, first being, again, quite a few misogynistic stereotypes included, as per usual
"My heart flutters in my chest at his return and I berate myself for being such a teenage girl."
"At the sound of the back door opening, I suddenly feel foolish. What am I, a fifties housewife?"
So a guy can't anticipate his partner coming home? He can't be excited about it? Let me guess, it's too feminine?
Whose side are you on here?
Reminds me of that reel I saw recently of a little boy enjoying a Taylor Swift concert and that idiot pastor talking shit about him, saying he's feminized.
And it's not just this book, there are plenty like that out there.
And this part just takes the cake. When Phoenix and Walker first met, Walker actually left his then-girlfriend, who was pregnant with his child and was about to have an abortion. He just left her to go through it all alone and didn’t speak to her for the next eight years.
I mean, that’s a pretty big character flaw, right? And yet, nothing is said about it. Phoenix is actually comforting Walker about it all the time and saying
"Phoenix’s nostrils flare and his jaw clenches. His fingers tighten against my thigh as he grits out, “Before I get really pissed. Did she keep this from you on purpose? Is she looking for a payday? Because if that’s the case, I’ll write her a fucking check to leave you alone.”"
Wow! So even the girl who got dumped and had to have an abortion all by herself, yet decided to keep the baby and be a teenage single mom, providing for herself and the kid and putting herself through school, can't do good by this author.
Another thing I don't quite get and never have, in any book, is
"I growl, knowing if I come inside him without a barrier, I’m never letting him go. And I’m not sure either of us is ready for that."
So let me get this straight, if he's fucking him without a condom, they're like what, mated for life?
Yeah. Anyway,
"How would I feel if my barely eighteen- year- old son was sexually active with a twenty- year- old?"
I get this is fiction, but I mean, come on.
Oh no, wait, we're not done yet, there's more
"My cum leaves my body in a controlled manner, like a slow volcanic eruption, spilling over the side of my head and running down his hand. Walker’s, however, shoots from his dick like Old Faithful, but with more power than the geyser itself."
And just like random shit thrown in there, like
“I had this dream last night and it was fucking terrifying. When I woke up and you were gone, I panicked until I finally figured out it was just a dream. But then I realized, I don’t know what it feels like to have you inside me… and that needs to change.”
yeah you know I was going to the store and I forgot what to buy and then I just took a dozen eggs and 1 milk and yeah, just realized suddenly I needed some fisting tonight
THE ONLY GOOD THING IN THIS BOOK were the guys at the very end of the book licking and sucking salt, tequila and lime off of Dylan's body and when we got to the good part where Knox got to it and Dylan really loved it, the story cuts off. Phoenix seemed way more excited about touching Dylan than he ever was with Walker.
So basically, Phoenix and Walker are boring as fuck in the second half and their story isn't well told at all, I'm really rooting for Knox because he's over 40 and has major daddy vibes, I'm hoping he's not getting another generic daddy/twink book, I want it to be good.
"Right now, all I can think is Luke, I am your fa- tha and I definitely don’t want it to come out like that."
Yeah, I know, I don't want it to come out like that either.
For me personally, it sucked, big time.
But for anyone interested, Dylan and Jake are married already. They've eloped, got married, they're quite present in this book. I liked it.
I also read the parts where they're present in Hudson's book and they remain the best couple in the series through and through.
🟣 Both rodeo champions, one retired
🔵 Age gap 18/20 and 26/28
🟡 Some size difference
🟢 Gay (closet) / bisexual (closet)
🟠 After their first meet-up up until 50% the story is pretty good, then it tanks
🌶️ First time good, other times a little boring; rimming, oral, frotting, penetrative; t/b -->both vers
It was a good start and I really liked it at first. Phoenix and Walker look and sound amazing in the first half, but their story wasn't good overall.
Phoenix is a rodeo champion, he's one of the best riders out there, a legend, while Walker is a young guy just starting out. They meet when Walker takes the win from Phoenix and they hook up.
I don't like the cover, so I tried to imagine Phoenix and Walker together and did it all before I got to the second half of the book, so here you go
There were so many things that didn’t sit right with me in this book, first being, again, quite a few misogynistic stereotypes included, as per usual
"My heart flutters in my chest at his return and I berate myself for being such a teenage girl."
"At the sound of the back door opening, I suddenly feel foolish. What am I, a fifties housewife?"
So a guy can't anticipate his partner coming home? He can't be excited about it? Let me guess, it's too feminine?
Whose side are you on here?
Reminds me of that reel I saw recently of a little boy enjoying a Taylor Swift concert and that idiot pastor talking shit about him, saying he's feminized.
And it's not just this book, there are plenty like that out there.
And this part just takes the cake. When Phoenix and Walker first met, Walker actually left his then-girlfriend, who was pregnant with his child and was about to have an abortion. He just left her to go through it all alone and didn’t speak to her for the next eight years.
I mean, that’s a pretty big character flaw, right? And yet, nothing is said about it. Phoenix is actually comforting Walker about it all the time and saying
"Phoenix’s nostrils flare and his jaw clenches. His fingers tighten against my thigh as he grits out, “Before I get really pissed. Did she keep this from you on purpose? Is she looking for a payday? Because if that’s the case, I’ll write her a fucking check to leave you alone.”"
Wow! So even the girl who got dumped and had to have an abortion all by herself, yet decided to keep the baby and be a teenage single mom, providing for herself and the kid and putting herself through school, can't do good by this author.
Another thing I don't quite get and never have, in any book, is
"I growl, knowing if I come inside him without a barrier, I’m never letting him go. And I’m not sure either of us is ready for that."
So let me get this straight, if he's fucking him without a condom, they're like what, mated for life?
Yeah. Anyway,
"How would I feel if my barely eighteen- year- old son was sexually active with a twenty- year- old?"
I get this is fiction, but I mean, come on.
Oh no, wait, we're not done yet, there's more
"My cum leaves my body in a controlled manner, like a slow volcanic eruption, spilling over the side of my head and running down his hand. Walker’s, however, shoots from his dick like Old Faithful, but with more power than the geyser itself."
And just like random shit thrown in there, like
“I had this dream last night and it was fucking terrifying. When I woke up and you were gone, I panicked until I finally figured out it was just a dream. But then I realized, I don’t know what it feels like to have you inside me… and that needs to change.”
yeah you know I was going to the store and I forgot what to buy and then I just took a dozen eggs and 1 milk and yeah, just realized suddenly I needed some fisting tonight
THE ONLY GOOD THING IN THIS BOOK were the guys at the very end of the book licking and sucking salt, tequila and lime off of Dylan's body and when we got to the good part where Knox got to it and Dylan really loved it, the story cuts off. Phoenix seemed way more excited about touching Dylan than he ever was with Walker.
So basically, Phoenix and Walker are boring as fuck in the second half and their story isn't well told at all, I'm really rooting for Knox because he's over 40 and has major daddy vibes, I'm hoping he's not getting another generic daddy/twink book, I want it to be good.
"Right now, all I can think is Luke, I am your fa- tha and I definitely don’t want it to come out like that."
Yeah, I know, I don't want it to come out like that either.
June 26, 2025
Eight years ago Walker DeVille and Phoenix Harding locked eyes over a bonfire not knowing that what followed would change the trajectory of both their lives.
For Phoenix, that night was the catalyst that causes his career to go up in flames, but for Walker, that life altering night was his salvation.
Years later the pair cross paths once again, changing both of their lives for a second time—this time for the better.
Loooorrrddd this book ruined me in the best way! Walker and Phoenix are everything and their journey to happily ever after was quite the rollercoaster, but damn was it worth the ride!
𝗪𝗛𝗔𝗧 𝗧𝗢 𝗘𝗫𝗣𝗘𝗖𝗧:
- firefighter x bronc rider
- former rivals
- enemies to lovers
- second chance romance
- forced proximity
- ‘It’s always been you’ vibes
- found family
For Phoenix, that night was the catalyst that causes his career to go up in flames, but for Walker, that life altering night was his salvation.
Years later the pair cross paths once again, changing both of their lives for a second time—this time for the better.
Loooorrrddd this book ruined me in the best way! Walker and Phoenix are everything and their journey to happily ever after was quite the rollercoaster, but damn was it worth the ride!
𝗪𝗛𝗔𝗧 𝗧𝗢 𝗘𝗫𝗣𝗘𝗖𝗧:
- firefighter x bronc rider
- former rivals
- enemies to lovers
- second chance romance
- forced proximity
- ‘It’s always been you’ vibes
- found family
June 16, 2025
Oh this one DID IT FOR ME
Cowboy? Firefighter? 2 very steamy bronc riders ? I’ll take it all thank you very much.
All of the friendships IN THIS BOOK WERE PERFECT. Not overdone, the bromances were real and adorable, and I feel like I could read 59 more of this little series of books and not get tired of all the friends being gay together.
While I didn’t cry, I still got emotional. Everything was spaced out so well. AND THE SPICE 🫠
The spice spiced very well, indeed.
So like… can I sign up for Knoxy’s book now because let me tell you… I know it’s gonna ruin me so good.
Thank you to Jillian and team for allowing me to read this advanced copy!
Cowboy? Firefighter? 2 very steamy bronc riders ? I’ll take it all thank you very much.
All of the friendships IN THIS BOOK WERE PERFECT. Not overdone, the bromances were real and adorable, and I feel like I could read 59 more of this little series of books and not get tired of all the friends being gay together.
While I didn’t cry, I still got emotional. Everything was spaced out so well. AND THE SPICE 🫠
The spice spiced very well, indeed.
So like… can I sign up for Knoxy’s book now because let me tell you… I know it’s gonna ruin me so good.
Thank you to Jillian and team for allowing me to read this advanced copy!
June 28, 2025
Not an ARC Review 3.5/5 ⭐️
I waited on pins and needles for this book because I LOVED Burn It Down so fucking much. If I had never read that book, I probably would have liked this one more than I did, so I don't know if that's fair or not, but...
This book isn't bad. There's a lot going for it: hot cowboys, excellent character development, great sense of place, rich side characters... In summary, the author has created a great world where these characters live, and it's easy to visualize all of them, and they're hotttt.
This story follows the same general format as Book 1 (I skipped Book 2, which is MF): strong initial attraction, loooong period of limbo where they dance around the edges of a relationship, then finally get together. Where this one fell a little more flat for me was the premise that kept them from getting together felt pretty flimsy.
I just wasn't convinced that Phoenix would be THAT obstinate about Walker lying to him about being a virgin, even given his history. So angry that he would hold on to it for eight years and blame Walker for everything that happened since. He went on to become a millionaire. I get it, I get it, his first love was the rodeo and all that, but the basis of him getting angry at Walker in the first place was flimsy, which is what led to him getting distracted and so on and so forth...and it just went on from there. All I'm saying is that thin thread was getting a workout for about 200 pages, trying to hold that grudge together, and I was feeling the strain.
However, I loved Walker. He was adorable, and his personality really shone through. A nice foil to Phoenix's kind of obnoxious self-centerdness and flat personality, IMO. All I really know about him is that he's hot, holds a grudge, and is possessive. He never really comes alive in any other way.
There's also a few, erm, choices that I'm confused about:
1. After drinking excessively on a boat all day, one of the MCs drives home after simply stating he's "fine" and the only commentary that's offered on this decision is that his "tolerance" is evidence of a potential alcohol dependency issue -- never to be revisited again
2. One of the side characters, Jake, who is an MC from Book 1, is extremely possessive and growly over his husband, Dylan anytime anyone so much as glances as Dylan throughout the entire book. Then, inexplicably in the final scene, he basically forces the entire friend group to take body shots off Dylan and comments the entire time how hot it is. Now, I'm sure it is hot, but I'm getting some mixed signals here.
3. I'm curious about the lack of CWs in the book, especially when topics are covered including abortion, keeping a baby from the father for 8 years, and serious suicidal ideation. I'd encourage the author to consider this in the future.
MCs
white
gay/bi
vers
possessiveness/jealousy
TROPES
second chances
ONS to lovers
rivals to lovers
found family
CWs --> none listed in book
mentions of unwanted teenage pregnancy
mentions of planned abortion (but ultimately did not go through with it)
mother keeping fact of birth of child from father for 8 years
driving after drinking (but stating "I'm find to drink")
homophobic slurs
KINKY SHIT
2.5/5 🌶️
first times
bareback sex
I waited on pins and needles for this book because I LOVED Burn It Down so fucking much. If I had never read that book, I probably would have liked this one more than I did, so I don't know if that's fair or not, but...
This book isn't bad. There's a lot going for it: hot cowboys, excellent character development, great sense of place, rich side characters... In summary, the author has created a great world where these characters live, and it's easy to visualize all of them, and they're hotttt.
This story follows the same general format as Book 1 (I skipped Book 2, which is MF): strong initial attraction, loooong period of limbo where they dance around the edges of a relationship, then finally get together. Where this one fell a little more flat for me was the premise that kept them from getting together felt pretty flimsy.
I just wasn't convinced that Phoenix would be THAT obstinate about Walker lying to him about being a virgin, even given his history. So angry that he would hold on to it for eight years and blame Walker for everything that happened since. He went on to become a millionaire. I get it, I get it, his first love was the rodeo and all that, but the basis of him getting angry at Walker in the first place was flimsy, which is what led to him getting distracted and so on and so forth...and it just went on from there. All I'm saying is that thin thread was getting a workout for about 200 pages, trying to hold that grudge together, and I was feeling the strain.
However, I loved Walker. He was adorable, and his personality really shone through. A nice foil to Phoenix's kind of obnoxious self-centerdness and flat personality, IMO. All I really know about him is that he's hot, holds a grudge, and is possessive. He never really comes alive in any other way.
There's also a few, erm, choices that I'm confused about:
1. After drinking excessively on a boat all day, one of the MCs drives home after simply stating he's "fine" and the only commentary that's offered on this decision is that his "tolerance" is evidence of a potential alcohol dependency issue -- never to be revisited again
2. One of the side characters, Jake, who is an MC from Book 1, is extremely possessive and growly over his husband, Dylan anytime anyone so much as glances as Dylan throughout the entire book. Then, inexplicably in the final scene, he basically forces the entire friend group to take body shots off Dylan and comments the entire time how hot it is. Now, I'm sure it is hot, but I'm getting some mixed signals here.
3. I'm curious about the lack of CWs in the book, especially when topics are covered including abortion, keeping a baby from the father for 8 years, and serious suicidal ideation. I'd encourage the author to consider this in the future.
MCs
white
gay/bi
vers
possessiveness/jealousy
TROPES
second chances
ONS to lovers
rivals to lovers
found family
CWs --> none listed in book
mentions of unwanted teenage pregnancy
mentions of planned abortion (but ultimately did not go through with it)
mother keeping fact of birth of child from father for 8 years
driving after drinking (but stating "I'm find to drink")
homophobic slurs
KINKY SHIT
2.5/5 🌶️
first times
bareback sex
October 6, 2025
5 ⭐️
Update: In the past I’ve taken issue with this author not including trigger warnings in her books, especially this one. In the fourth and final installment of this series, she includes the following: I do not list content/trigger warnings in my books. However, if you need/want them, they are available on my website (www.jillianwrayauthor.com). Be warned, they DO contain spoilers.
I don’t know if she saw my feedback or if others shared my sentiments, or if she just decided to start adding that disclaimer, but I really appreciate it regardless. Especially if she took that into account after hearing from readers. I totally respect an author, not wanting to include it in the actual book because it can be a spoiler, I just feel Like they should be accessible if you have them. Thank you, Jillian, for doing this.
🐎 Bronc Rider/Firefighter
🔥 Second Chance
🐎 Single (surprise) Dad
🔥 Found Family
🐎 Grumpy/Sunshine (I think)
🖤 No third-act breakup
🩶 Vers
🤍 No OP drama or scenes
Five stars for my enjoyment of the book, but some parts made me grumpy. I HATE second chance romances and time jumps so the fact that this is five stars for me is a testament to how good it was. 😂
I know we as readers are not owed trigger warnings and I will say, the content of this book wasn’t personally triggering for me, aside from the way Walker talked about one of the subjects pissing me off (but I understand his thoughts), they can be HUGE triggers for some people.
1. Suicidal ideations is arguably one of THE most important warnings you could need. That’s a big deal and I know it could be a spoiler, but that’s why plenty of authors put them in the back of the book.
2. Abortion. The chance of that being in a MM romance is less than 5%. All the more reason to include that as a warning because it truly comes out of nowhere.
Again, these aren’t triggers for me, I truly believe it takes minimal effort to include them and could make a world of difference for some people.
That being said, I LOVED the book. It didn’t feel imbalanced which is hard to do with a second chance book and one character trying to win over the other. I loved seeing the relationships and friendships from the previous books.
Lexi won me over and seemed like a good Mom but it pissed me the heck off that she didn’t really take accountability for cutting Walker out of Colton’s life without him even knowing. Every time she tried to apologize, Walker said it was fine. It’s not. It will never be fine. It would’ve been nice for them all to acknowledge how terrible it was and have a real discussion and apology. Walker automatically forgave her and I wish there was more tension in working through that. Especially since it would have been good external angst, which is my favorite thing.
That was really my only qualm with the story and didn’t ruin my enjoyment of the book. I’m super excited for Knox’s story.
Update: In the past I’ve taken issue with this author not including trigger warnings in her books, especially this one. In the fourth and final installment of this series, she includes the following: I do not list content/trigger warnings in my books. However, if you need/want them, they are available on my website (www.jillianwrayauthor.com). Be warned, they DO contain spoilers.
I don’t know if she saw my feedback or if others shared my sentiments, or if she just decided to start adding that disclaimer, but I really appreciate it regardless. Especially if she took that into account after hearing from readers. I totally respect an author, not wanting to include it in the actual book because it can be a spoiler, I just feel Like they should be accessible if you have them. Thank you, Jillian, for doing this.
🐎 Bronc Rider/Firefighter
🔥 Second Chance
🐎 Single (surprise) Dad
🔥 Found Family
🐎 Grumpy/Sunshine (I think)
🖤 No third-act breakup
🩶 Vers
🤍 No OP drama or scenes
Five stars for my enjoyment of the book, but some parts made me grumpy. I HATE second chance romances and time jumps so the fact that this is five stars for me is a testament to how good it was. 😂
I know we as readers are not owed trigger warnings and I will say, the content of this book wasn’t personally triggering for me, aside from the way Walker talked about one of the subjects pissing me off (but I understand his thoughts), they can be HUGE triggers for some people.
1. Suicidal ideations is arguably one of THE most important warnings you could need. That’s a big deal and I know it could be a spoiler, but that’s why plenty of authors put them in the back of the book.
2. Abortion. The chance of that being in a MM romance is less than 5%. All the more reason to include that as a warning because it truly comes out of nowhere.
Again, these aren’t triggers for me, I truly believe it takes minimal effort to include them and could make a world of difference for some people.
That being said, I LOVED the book. It didn’t feel imbalanced which is hard to do with a second chance book and one character trying to win over the other. I loved seeing the relationships and friendships from the previous books.
Lexi won me over and seemed like a good Mom but it pissed me the heck off that she didn’t really take accountability for cutting Walker out of Colton’s life without him even knowing. Every time she tried to apologize, Walker said it was fine. It’s not. It will never be fine. It would’ve been nice for them all to acknowledge how terrible it was and have a real discussion and apology. Walker automatically forgave her and I wish there was more tension in working through that. Especially since it would have been good external angst, which is my favorite thing.
That was really my only qualm with the story and didn’t ruin my enjoyment of the book. I’m super excited for Knox’s story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 20, 2025
Oh my 🥵 these two were everything. A cowboy and a firefighter? Say less!
Shared looks between Phoenix and Walker over the firepit lead to the best and worst night of their lives. After Phoenix’s world was literally turned upside down the next day, the two never spoke to one another again.. until 8 years later, when they end up in the same place at the same time. And the connection that they felt years ago? Yup, still there and stronger than ever.
I loved how Walker wouldn’t give up on Phoenix. And when Phoenix finally let his walls down? It was sooo good. You could literally feel the connection these two had while reading this. And the chemistry? Lawwwwd. It was HOT.
And the whole friend group was just amazing, the banter between them had me laughing out loud more than once. Now it is Knox’s turn, and I CANNOT wait to read his story!
Thank you Jillian for the copy of this book, this is my honest review.
Shared looks between Phoenix and Walker over the firepit lead to the best and worst night of their lives. After Phoenix’s world was literally turned upside down the next day, the two never spoke to one another again.. until 8 years later, when they end up in the same place at the same time. And the connection that they felt years ago? Yup, still there and stronger than ever.
I loved how Walker wouldn’t give up on Phoenix. And when Phoenix finally let his walls down? It was sooo good. You could literally feel the connection these two had while reading this. And the chemistry? Lawwwwd. It was HOT.
And the whole friend group was just amazing, the banter between them had me laughing out loud more than once. Now it is Knox’s turn, and I CANNOT wait to read his story!
Thank you Jillian for the copy of this book, this is my honest review.
January 7, 2026
4.5 rounded up
I was hoping for something like this after reading the first book. So good! I loved Phoenix and Walker and didn’t even get sick of Phoenix not getting on board for so long lol. And once he got it together enough to move forward, wow was it amazing. They’re so vulnerable and open with each other. And their friend group is amazing, including Alexis and Kevin. LOVED IT. Off to read Knox’s story!
I was hoping for something like this after reading the first book. So good! I loved Phoenix and Walker and didn’t even get sick of Phoenix not getting on board for so long lol. And once he got it together enough to move forward, wow was it amazing. They’re so vulnerable and open with each other. And their friend group is amazing, including Alexis and Kevin. LOVED IT. Off to read Knox’s story!
August 7, 2025
GOD, THANK YOU.
This book seriously fed my soul 💞
I was giggling like crazy for three days straight while reading it 😭
The ending was kinda weird, not gonna lie, but overall? LOVED it.
I’m so weak for hot/pretty boys. Put two hot guys in love and I’ll lose my mind every single time. Thank you very much 💀🫶🏻
This book seriously fed my soul 💞
I was giggling like crazy for three days straight while reading it 😭
The ending was kinda weird, not gonna lie, but overall? LOVED it.
I’m so weak for hot/pretty boys. Put two hot guys in love and I’ll lose my mind every single time. Thank you very much 💀🫶🏻
June 19, 2025
I don’t often read MM, and cowboy romance isn’t usually a genre I reach for, but I picked this up because I love Jillian Wray’s writing, and I was curious to see read Phoenix and Walker’s story.
There’s so much to admire here: the layered emotion, the strong sense of found family, and the slow burn tension between two characters navigating years of regret and unanswered questions. I especially appreciated how much heart went into the characters’ growth, both individually and together.
Even though this isn't my typical genre, I still found myself drawn to the dynamics of the story. It’s clear Jillian poured care into every page, and readers who enjoy emotionally grounded spicy MM romance will find a lot to love in this book.
There’s so much to admire here: the layered emotion, the strong sense of found family, and the slow burn tension between two characters navigating years of regret and unanswered questions. I especially appreciated how much heart went into the characters’ growth, both individually and together.
Even though this isn't my typical genre, I still found myself drawn to the dynamics of the story. It’s clear Jillian poured care into every page, and readers who enjoy emotionally grounded spicy MM romance will find a lot to love in this book.
December 3, 2025
So this book I finished out of spite. Had some good moments, very few, but I just wanted to see how it would end. Spoiler alert, **it wouldn't fucking end**. It is 370 pages long, but it felt like 3000 pages long. I was reading it and so many things were happening, I was sure I passed the 50% mark. Wrong, I was only 33% in. How the fuck?
The MCs meet, they fuck, they "break up", MC1 loses his career due to a traumatic brain injury. MCs meet 8 fucking years later, MC2 still has a career as a bronc rider, he meets MC1 again, they fight a couple times, MC2 falls, breaks his arm, MC1 offers him a place to stay at his farm. This all happens in the first 30% of the book. HOW?!
Anyway, the story isn't my main problem. The bones were good, had great potential, but the execution is awful.
Lots of continuity problems. Time has no importance, sometimes 2 hours move like nothing, sometimes it's still morning after hours and hours. Now, I know absolutely nothing about bronc riding, I didn't even know this sport existed before reading this book. But my logic tells me that the competitions should be held in the evening. Why do they all happen in the crack of the morning in this book? How can people go and watch this in the morning? Don't they have jobs? Again, this might be how it's actually done, I have no idea.
Other problems I had is the constant alcohol consumption. MC2 gets injured, get prescribed oxycodone and MC1 offers him a beer. MC2 says he probably shouldn't drink and take pills, MC1 says something like "I'm sure one beer is fine, but whatever." to which MC2 agrees then asks MC1 for something stronger, like liquor. Lots of instances of people driving to the bar to drink with no mentions of leaving the cars there or having a designated driver.
Hell, even in the first sexual interaction between the MCs is fueled by alcohol. MC2 is barely legal, having turned 18 years old 10 days prior. MC1 asks him if he's 18, he says yes, then offers him liquor, even though it's evident he has no tolerance, then they go and fuck in a barn.
I had my reticence when I found out that MC2 is barely 18, but MC1 is 20 so I turned a blind eye. But man, the author wouldn't let us forget. It was brought up quite a few times how MC2 was barely legal when they first had sex.
This is a spoiler, but I think it's important for people to know, so. Turns out, MC2 has **SPOILER** a child. The Night they first meet, MC2 wanted to kill himself because he let the mother of the child go through abortion, sorry, as the author put it "killing an unborn child" all alone. Said mother of child didn't go through with the abortion and texts MC2 that he has an 8 year old child. Great, just great.
MC2 gets jealous of a girl recognising MC1 as the star he was, the girl asks for an autograph and basically tries to give him her number in case MC1 ever feels like fucking her. Mind you, the MCs are not officially together at this point, they haven't even made up yet, but that doesn't stop MC2 from calling her a bitch in his head then asking if MC1 feels like subscribing to the girl's Only Fans **in front of the girl**. How misogynistic can you be? Also, lots of sexist comments like "look at me, preparing him food like 50s housewife" or "I'm flustered like an adolescent girl" or "stop gossiping like girls".
MC1 is bisexual, MC2 is gay. MC1 is angry that MC2 "lied" about being a virgin the first time they had sex. During the 8 years apart, MC1 has lots of meaningless sex with women, but never with men "cause they remind him too much of MC2", but women don't count, right?
The final scene gave me contradictory feelings. The MCs have a group of friends, 2 women and 4 men. 2 of the men are from book 1 and in a committed relationship. The other 2 men are supposedly straight, one being the MMC of book 2. All the men keep saying how attractive one of the men in the gay relationship is and now, his husband says that they should do body shots off said man. It turns very sexual and I am actually not sure if it's just fetishing gay men by a white woman.
Now, as this review is already too long, the MCs' relationship is also so hot and cold it's insane. They either talk a lot, but lots of miscommunication then one of the MC wants to reveal something that has caused miscommunication between them and is stopped by the other MC. The book could have been 100 pages shorter if they sat down like adults. I had book 1 of this series on my tbr, but if I never read a word written by the author again, it's too soon.
The MCs meet, they fuck, they "break up", MC1 loses his career due to a traumatic brain injury. MCs meet 8 fucking years later, MC2 still has a career as a bronc rider, he meets MC1 again, they fight a couple times, MC2 falls, breaks his arm, MC1 offers him a place to stay at his farm. This all happens in the first 30% of the book. HOW?!
Anyway, the story isn't my main problem. The bones were good, had great potential, but the execution is awful.
Lots of continuity problems. Time has no importance, sometimes 2 hours move like nothing, sometimes it's still morning after hours and hours. Now, I know absolutely nothing about bronc riding, I didn't even know this sport existed before reading this book. But my logic tells me that the competitions should be held in the evening. Why do they all happen in the crack of the morning in this book? How can people go and watch this in the morning? Don't they have jobs? Again, this might be how it's actually done, I have no idea.
Other problems I had is the constant alcohol consumption. MC2 gets injured, get prescribed oxycodone and MC1 offers him a beer. MC2 says he probably shouldn't drink and take pills, MC1 says something like "I'm sure one beer is fine, but whatever." to which MC2 agrees then asks MC1 for something stronger, like liquor. Lots of instances of people driving to the bar to drink with no mentions of leaving the cars there or having a designated driver.
Hell, even in the first sexual interaction between the MCs is fueled by alcohol. MC2 is barely legal, having turned 18 years old 10 days prior. MC1 asks him if he's 18, he says yes, then offers him liquor, even though it's evident he has no tolerance, then they go and fuck in a barn.
I had my reticence when I found out that MC2 is barely 18, but MC1 is 20 so I turned a blind eye. But man, the author wouldn't let us forget. It was brought up quite a few times how MC2 was barely legal when they first had sex.
This is a spoiler, but I think it's important for people to know, so. Turns out, MC2 has **SPOILER** a child. The Night they first meet, MC2 wanted to kill himself because he let the mother of the child go through abortion, sorry, as the author put it "killing an unborn child" all alone. Said mother of child didn't go through with the abortion and texts MC2 that he has an 8 year old child. Great, just great.
MC2 gets jealous of a girl recognising MC1 as the star he was, the girl asks for an autograph and basically tries to give him her number in case MC1 ever feels like fucking her. Mind you, the MCs are not officially together at this point, they haven't even made up yet, but that doesn't stop MC2 from calling her a bitch in his head then asking if MC1 feels like subscribing to the girl's Only Fans **in front of the girl**. How misogynistic can you be? Also, lots of sexist comments like "look at me, preparing him food like 50s housewife" or "I'm flustered like an adolescent girl" or "stop gossiping like girls".
MC1 is bisexual, MC2 is gay. MC1 is angry that MC2 "lied" about being a virgin the first time they had sex. During the 8 years apart, MC1 has lots of meaningless sex with women, but never with men "cause they remind him too much of MC2", but women don't count, right?
The final scene gave me contradictory feelings. The MCs have a group of friends, 2 women and 4 men. 2 of the men are from book 1 and in a committed relationship. The other 2 men are supposedly straight, one being the MMC of book 2. All the men keep saying how attractive one of the men in the gay relationship is and now, his husband says that they should do body shots off said man. It turns very sexual and I am actually not sure if it's just fetishing gay men by a white woman.
Now, as this review is already too long, the MCs' relationship is also so hot and cold it's insane. They either talk a lot, but lots of miscommunication then one of the MC wants to reveal something that has caused miscommunication between them and is stopped by the other MC. The book could have been 100 pages shorter if they sat down like adults. I had book 1 of this series on my tbr, but if I never read a word written by the author again, it's too soon.
June 16, 2025
There hasn’t been a book of Jillian’s that I didn’t love. This book was so damned good! I fell in love hard with Phoenix and Walker.
Phoenix was a champion bronc rider and discretely bisexual. Walker was his competition that year as an 18 year old rookie. Shared looks across the fire pit after the rodeo Walker takes off and Phoenix takes off after him to shoot his shot.
After an amazing night Phoe wants more, but Walker thinks everyone is better off without him. After a night that changes their lives forever they don’t see each other again for eight long years.
“I want him. I never stopped wanting him. And it’s time I make that crystal fucking clear.”
This book had me smiling, tearing up and squealing. I recommend Jillian’s books all the time, and this is for damn sure one you should read. It’s part of series that don’t have to be read in order, but they do follow a timeline. When it got to Knox’s POV at the end of the epilogue I clapped my hands because I am literally so excited for his story. Can’t wait for the next book.
Tropes:
MM romance
Bronc rider
Rivals to lovers
Firefighter/rancher
Forced proximity
Found family
Phoenix was a champion bronc rider and discretely bisexual. Walker was his competition that year as an 18 year old rookie. Shared looks across the fire pit after the rodeo Walker takes off and Phoenix takes off after him to shoot his shot.
After an amazing night Phoe wants more, but Walker thinks everyone is better off without him. After a night that changes their lives forever they don’t see each other again for eight long years.
“I want him. I never stopped wanting him. And it’s time I make that crystal fucking clear.”
This book had me smiling, tearing up and squealing. I recommend Jillian’s books all the time, and this is for damn sure one you should read. It’s part of series that don’t have to be read in order, but they do follow a timeline. When it got to Knox’s POV at the end of the epilogue I clapped my hands because I am literally so excited for his story. Can’t wait for the next book.
Tropes:
MM romance
Bronc rider
Rivals to lovers
Firefighter/rancher
Forced proximity
Found family
June 20, 2025
From The Ashes ARC Review:
Walker and Phoenix ❤️🔥
One night together changes everything for Phoenix and Walker, with the next day becoming the last time Phoenix would compete in bronc riding when he sustains a career ending injury. Time moves on and their paths cross again, Walker is determined to prove to Phoenix that they could be. Each surprise from Walker makes Phoenix’s claims that Walker had ruined their one chance at being together appear weaker, giving them both hope to fix what went wrong before.
Walker and Phoenix are so lovely together, even the angry and angsty bits, I love them through it all! With Phoenix trying his hardest to not let Walker back in and Walker doing anything to prove that he is all in, they pulled at my heart so many times. I love a good second chance and these two have an emotional second chance filled with surprises along the way, there was never a dull moment in their world! These two care so much about each other but since things went sideways before, there is a lot to understand between them. I was dying for a look into Phoenix’s mind since I met him in Burn It Down and From The Ashes delivered with Walker and the love that didn’t get a chance before. I adore both Phoenix and Walker got a bit weepy whenever they were any level of emotional.
Of course, I loved seeing the group again! I am so excited to see where Knox’s story leads him. Overall, From The Ashes is an instant love! Walker and Phoenix deserved all the happiness they could dream of.
5/5 🌟
Walker and Phoenix ❤️🔥
One night together changes everything for Phoenix and Walker, with the next day becoming the last time Phoenix would compete in bronc riding when he sustains a career ending injury. Time moves on and their paths cross again, Walker is determined to prove to Phoenix that they could be. Each surprise from Walker makes Phoenix’s claims that Walker had ruined their one chance at being together appear weaker, giving them both hope to fix what went wrong before.
Walker and Phoenix are so lovely together, even the angry and angsty bits, I love them through it all! With Phoenix trying his hardest to not let Walker back in and Walker doing anything to prove that he is all in, they pulled at my heart so many times. I love a good second chance and these two have an emotional second chance filled with surprises along the way, there was never a dull moment in their world! These two care so much about each other but since things went sideways before, there is a lot to understand between them. I was dying for a look into Phoenix’s mind since I met him in Burn It Down and From The Ashes delivered with Walker and the love that didn’t get a chance before. I adore both Phoenix and Walker got a bit weepy whenever they were any level of emotional.
Of course, I loved seeing the group again! I am so excited to see where Knox’s story leads him. Overall, From The Ashes is an instant love! Walker and Phoenix deserved all the happiness they could dream of.
5/5 🌟
July 21, 2025
5 🌟
Spice: open door
Format: ebook
This series has seriously gotten better and better eith each book! I am obsessed with Walker & Phoenix! The way these two love is so beautiful. Knowing now what was going on for Walker in the prologue makes me wanna reach in and give him a huge hug. I love this group of friends so much, their banter and acceptance is off the charts. I can't wait to see what kind of pain Knox will put us through with his book, but after that epilouge I think it's gonna be hot AF.
Spice: open door
Format: ebook
This series has seriously gotten better and better eith each book! I am obsessed with Walker & Phoenix! The way these two love is so beautiful. Knowing now what was going on for Walker in the prologue makes me wanna reach in and give him a huge hug. I love this group of friends so much, their banter and acceptance is off the charts. I can't wait to see what kind of pain Knox will put us through with his book, but after that epilouge I think it's gonna be hot AF.
July 30, 2025
4.75⭐️…for now👀
Omg!!! This book was amazing! It literally fed my soul😮💨 There’s not a single bad thing to say about this book, in my opinion. Even the SIDE characters added to the story and were so intriguing because they were fully thought out characters that made this story so fun and entertaining. Anyone who loves an MM romance about cowboys and bronc riders need to read this masterpiece at least once! I will say this is my second book by this author and it went by quick compared to the first one, which I appreciated and enjoyed. Like I was literally in it and didn’t want to put it down. If this book eventually becomes an audiobook in the future it would be so hot and amazing🔥🔥
Omg!!! This book was amazing! It literally fed my soul😮💨 There’s not a single bad thing to say about this book, in my opinion. Even the SIDE characters added to the story and were so intriguing because they were fully thought out characters that made this story so fun and entertaining. Anyone who loves an MM romance about cowboys and bronc riders need to read this masterpiece at least once! I will say this is my second book by this author and it went by quick compared to the first one, which I appreciated and enjoyed. Like I was literally in it and didn’t want to put it down. If this book eventually becomes an audiobook in the future it would be so hot and amazing🔥🔥
August 15, 2025
i don’t usually read a series out of order but this one was really calling to me and I LOVED IT! i loved the characters, the plot, and the found family aspect. phoe and walker were so fun to follow along with and i was SCREAMING at every interaction that referenced that first night together (WALKERS FUCKING SUPERSTITION MOVE 🫠🫠) gonna go back and read the first two so im ready for the 4th book in the fall 🕺🏼
dnf
February 4, 2026After reading book 1 and absolutely loving Jake and Dylan's story, I couldn't wait for this book. I loved Phoenix as a side character in book 1 and thought his story was going to be great. Unfortunately, I got 37% of the way in and I had to DNF. I just couldn't connect with either character and it was boring me as nothing really happened at that stage. I don't think I will continue the series.
October 27, 2025
I’m so disappointed because this was so good and like I eating this book up till it reached that one thing (iykyk) which honestly ruined this for me plus not enough firefighter or cowboy stuff…
June 24, 2025
1.5 stars. I'm sorry. I'm bored. dnefed 43%
The writing is "tight" and not in a good way. The characters just ramble and I don't see where the conflict is even tho they haven't gotten together so I guess it's quite weak
It started cool, I liked the showing not telling but right now it is feeling everything but
Pretty bland
The writing is "tight" and not in a good way. The characters just ramble and I don't see where the conflict is even tho they haven't gotten together so I guess it's quite weak
It started cool, I liked the showing not telling but right now it is feeling everything but
Pretty bland
June 16, 2025
My first MM romance and it was PERFECTION! I absolutely loved Phoenix and Walker.
Thank you so much Jillian for the ARC of From the Ashes.
Thank you so much Jillian for the ARC of From the Ashes.
September 4, 2025
I wanted to give up about 50% in but I powered through and it still sucked.
The whole book had their weird undercurrent of pro-birth, Phoenix literally at one point says “thank you for saving our son”.
How is Walker so poor? He has six titles, and he’d have endorsements and lots of prize money, but somehow needs to stay in a cheap hotel when Jonas leaves and tells Phoenix he can get back into the circuit once he starts losing sponsors, not until magically his biggest sponsor gives him more money. At one point Phoenix says that $5000 would’ve been enough for all of walkers entry fees for the year. So we’re to believe Walker doesn’t have even 5,000 dollars? After being a six time winner and having endorsements this guy doesn’t have 5 grand? It makes zero sense.
Phoenix is unnecessarily upset about the virgin situation. Walker didn’t need to share anymore than what he was willing to share with Phoenix, he wasn’t owed anything. He’s also oddly obsessed and not in a fun way with Walker for having slept with him for one night. “How dare he not acknowledge me while he was sitting in the shoot on a bronco ready to risk his life!” Phoenix is blaming Walker for way too much. Phoenix is an athlete who seemingly can’t understand why someone would be zoned out when they’re seconds away from doing something incredibly dangerous.
Completely skipped Walkers POV meeting his kid. What the hell?! This was ridiculous. All the buildup and we don’t even see him meet his kid. To be honest the kid angle was useless to the story and could’ve been completely left out.
The boat epilogue scene was bizarre. Group foreplay with their married friend is a weird way to end a book.
The whole book had their weird undercurrent of pro-birth, Phoenix literally at one point says “thank you for saving our son”.
How is Walker so poor? He has six titles, and he’d have endorsements and lots of prize money, but somehow needs to stay in a cheap hotel when Jonas leaves and tells Phoenix he can get back into the circuit once he starts losing sponsors, not until magically his biggest sponsor gives him more money. At one point Phoenix says that $5000 would’ve been enough for all of walkers entry fees for the year. So we’re to believe Walker doesn’t have even 5,000 dollars? After being a six time winner and having endorsements this guy doesn’t have 5 grand? It makes zero sense.
Phoenix is unnecessarily upset about the virgin situation. Walker didn’t need to share anymore than what he was willing to share with Phoenix, he wasn’t owed anything. He’s also oddly obsessed and not in a fun way with Walker for having slept with him for one night. “How dare he not acknowledge me while he was sitting in the shoot on a bronco ready to risk his life!” Phoenix is blaming Walker for way too much. Phoenix is an athlete who seemingly can’t understand why someone would be zoned out when they’re seconds away from doing something incredibly dangerous.
Completely skipped Walkers POV meeting his kid. What the hell?! This was ridiculous. All the buildup and we don’t even see him meet his kid. To be honest the kid angle was useless to the story and could’ve been completely left out.
The boat epilogue scene was bizarre. Group foreplay with their married friend is a weird way to end a book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 24, 2025
phoenix & walker - 4 stars ❤️ second chance romance is a faveeee of mine so i enjoyed very much
June 7, 2025
They rose back up together as one🔥🐦🔥
I’m writing this review the second after I finished reading because I need to talk about this book. Holy. Crap. I read Burn it Down with such ease and immediately fell in love with this found family Jillian created. While I didn’t read Playing With Fire, I could tell Hudson’s story was so deserved and filled with so much emotion. Now we finally got Phoenix.
The second that Jillian announced this book and their tropes, I made sure to sign up for the ARC. These boys were everything to me. I kid u not, from page 1 I knew this was going to be everything I wanted and more. I knew it was five stars the moment I read “baby” come out of Phoes mouth.
I knew it would wreck me the second I realized Walker would never get to explain the letter before things took a turn for the worst.
Jillian’s ability to write such amazing stories with so much emotion is amazing. These characters steal ur heart and pull u into their soul. I felt everything they did. From the lust that poured out of them in that barn, then eventually the tack room.
To the yearning they both felt for each other, even 8 years later at the rodeo. Every moment between Phoenix and Walker was so special.
Their love is so raw and beautiful. The heat between them could burn worlds down. I found myself having to re read those scenes bc one time wasn’t enough. Hell, even twice sometimes wasn’t enough. Cowboys always have a way with their words. Damn.
These men (Hud, Dyl, Jake, and Knox included) will always have a special place in my heart. I love how these guys are all so comfortable with each other. Their ability to be in such committed relationship, yet still openly flirt with each other cracks me up. These group of men are so secure and it’s so refreshing to read.
I’m trying my best to type the love I had the pleasure of reading in this review, but honestly no amount of space on any page would be enough. Everything about this book (even this series) will stick with me for a very, very long time.
The things both men went through tore me apart. Once we finally got the full story, I put my hand over my heart and just took a moment to mourn for Walker. I’m so glad he had Phoenix during that moment. They may have lost each other once, but as soon as they were in each other’s vicinity again, nothing could stop them from burning what was once ashes, to now burning their eternal flame of love.
I absolutely cannot wait for Knox’s book. Hes been through so much that no one deserves to go through, but Ik Jillian will give him exactly what he needs.
Thank you to Jillian for letting me review an ARC of From the Ashes. I absolutely loved Phoenix and Walker. I can’t wait to see what’s next! ❤️
I’m writing this review the second after I finished reading because I need to talk about this book. Holy. Crap. I read Burn it Down with such ease and immediately fell in love with this found family Jillian created. While I didn’t read Playing With Fire, I could tell Hudson’s story was so deserved and filled with so much emotion. Now we finally got Phoenix.
The second that Jillian announced this book and their tropes, I made sure to sign up for the ARC. These boys were everything to me. I kid u not, from page 1 I knew this was going to be everything I wanted and more. I knew it was five stars the moment I read “baby” come out of Phoes mouth.
I knew it would wreck me the second I realized Walker would never get to explain the letter before things took a turn for the worst.
Jillian’s ability to write such amazing stories with so much emotion is amazing. These characters steal ur heart and pull u into their soul. I felt everything they did. From the lust that poured out of them in that barn, then eventually the tack room.
To the yearning they both felt for each other, even 8 years later at the rodeo. Every moment between Phoenix and Walker was so special.
Their love is so raw and beautiful. The heat between them could burn worlds down. I found myself having to re read those scenes bc one time wasn’t enough. Hell, even twice sometimes wasn’t enough. Cowboys always have a way with their words. Damn.
These men (Hud, Dyl, Jake, and Knox included) will always have a special place in my heart. I love how these guys are all so comfortable with each other. Their ability to be in such committed relationship, yet still openly flirt with each other cracks me up. These group of men are so secure and it’s so refreshing to read.
I’m trying my best to type the love I had the pleasure of reading in this review, but honestly no amount of space on any page would be enough. Everything about this book (even this series) will stick with me for a very, very long time.
The things both men went through tore me apart. Once we finally got the full story, I put my hand over my heart and just took a moment to mourn for Walker. I’m so glad he had Phoenix during that moment. They may have lost each other once, but as soon as they were in each other’s vicinity again, nothing could stop them from burning what was once ashes, to now burning their eternal flame of love.
I absolutely cannot wait for Knox’s book. Hes been through so much that no one deserves to go through, but Ik Jillian will give him exactly what he needs.
Thank you to Jillian for letting me review an ARC of From the Ashes. I absolutely loved Phoenix and Walker. I can’t wait to see what’s next! ❤️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 15, 2025
❤️ MM romance
🧡 Rivals to lovers
🤍 Bronc rider
❤️ Firefighter/rancher
🧡 Forced proximity
🤍 Found family
❤️ Personal demons
🧡 Growth/redemption
Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️.5
Be still my heart. Jillian. Ma’am. I don’t appreciate you writing a story like this. One that makes me laugh, nervous, feel hope, shock, tension, and so many other emotions. In the wise words of Stephanie Tanner, “How rude!” And by rude, I mean, good Lord ma’am, keep wrecking me in the BEST way because I f***ing LOVED this book! I don’t know how you’re doing it, but keep doing it! I Devoured this book in two days. I couldn’t put it down. Walker and Phoenix are EVERYTHING. I lived it all with them and still want more. This can be read as a stand alone, but you definitely need the background of the other guys in this group because, 🫠 they are the best group of friends! *cue the warm and fuzzies*
Walker and Phoenix had a night that turned out to be the best and worst thing that had ever happened to them. It changed the trajectory of their lives. Eight years later and they still have never forgotten that fateful night. Being back in each other’s orbit is both a blessing and a curse. One that will change their lives again. As much as one fights to put distance while the other tries to get closer, there is no mistaking that everything they felt for one another all those years ago is still there. Like a ticking time b0mb waiting to combust. And when it happens? 😮💨 It is worth every moment apart.
I think I might be in love with Walker and Phoenix. I’m clearly aware that A. they’re fictional, and 2. they’re gay/bi. I don’t even care. Everything about them made me want to climb into my freaking kindle and sandwich myself between them. Although, I get their jealousy likely wouldn’t allow it! 😂 This story flowed so well, every single part of this story just worked. Each of the guys has a plethora of history and personal demons to work through. Seeing them grow, open up, come out, support one another, was fantastic.
I couldn’t be more thankful for Jillian letting me ARC another of her books, but frankly just being who she is! Super chill when it comes to her Team, she’s supportive, and when I finally got to meet her in person, just an absolute doll! I love her so much and love seeing this journey and growth she’s been on! Congratulations on writing yet another amazing story! 🩷
🤠“With his hat low and his head down, his f*** off vibes are strong despite his win. Like I said, just my type.”
🐴“We can go back to being enemies in the morning, but tonight, I want to make him my own personal bucking beast.”
🤠“His quiet strength is the total opposite of my loud mouth, and I want to see if I can make him scream.”
🐴“Your quiet calmed my chaos and I wasn’t ready for you to go.”
🤠“You’ve got demons. Stop running from them and start talking to them, or they’ll end up as the only company you keep.”
🐴“Because phoenixes are reborn from their own ashes, and part of me died that night with you. I needed a reminder that I could rise again too,”
🤠“I’ve hated myself so long for wanting you,” Phoenix pants against me. “Even then. Even after you messed with my head… because f*** if you didn’t make me feel shit I’d never felt before.”
🐴“You taste like heaven,” I tell him. “And you f*** like hell,” he replies.
🤠“To finding love and f***in’ who you want.”
🧡 Rivals to lovers
🤍 Bronc rider
❤️ Firefighter/rancher
🧡 Forced proximity
🤍 Found family
❤️ Personal demons
🧡 Growth/redemption
Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️.5
Be still my heart. Jillian. Ma’am. I don’t appreciate you writing a story like this. One that makes me laugh, nervous, feel hope, shock, tension, and so many other emotions. In the wise words of Stephanie Tanner, “How rude!” And by rude, I mean, good Lord ma’am, keep wrecking me in the BEST way because I f***ing LOVED this book! I don’t know how you’re doing it, but keep doing it! I Devoured this book in two days. I couldn’t put it down. Walker and Phoenix are EVERYTHING. I lived it all with them and still want more. This can be read as a stand alone, but you definitely need the background of the other guys in this group because, 🫠 they are the best group of friends! *cue the warm and fuzzies*
Walker and Phoenix had a night that turned out to be the best and worst thing that had ever happened to them. It changed the trajectory of their lives. Eight years later and they still have never forgotten that fateful night. Being back in each other’s orbit is both a blessing and a curse. One that will change their lives again. As much as one fights to put distance while the other tries to get closer, there is no mistaking that everything they felt for one another all those years ago is still there. Like a ticking time b0mb waiting to combust. And when it happens? 😮💨 It is worth every moment apart.
I think I might be in love with Walker and Phoenix. I’m clearly aware that A. they’re fictional, and 2. they’re gay/bi. I don’t even care. Everything about them made me want to climb into my freaking kindle and sandwich myself between them. Although, I get their jealousy likely wouldn’t allow it! 😂 This story flowed so well, every single part of this story just worked. Each of the guys has a plethora of history and personal demons to work through. Seeing them grow, open up, come out, support one another, was fantastic.
I couldn’t be more thankful for Jillian letting me ARC another of her books, but frankly just being who she is! Super chill when it comes to her Team, she’s supportive, and when I finally got to meet her in person, just an absolute doll! I love her so much and love seeing this journey and growth she’s been on! Congratulations on writing yet another amazing story! 🩷
🤠“With his hat low and his head down, his f*** off vibes are strong despite his win. Like I said, just my type.”
🐴“We can go back to being enemies in the morning, but tonight, I want to make him my own personal bucking beast.”
🤠“His quiet strength is the total opposite of my loud mouth, and I want to see if I can make him scream.”
🐴“Your quiet calmed my chaos and I wasn’t ready for you to go.”
🤠“You’ve got demons. Stop running from them and start talking to them, or they’ll end up as the only company you keep.”
🐴“Because phoenixes are reborn from their own ashes, and part of me died that night with you. I needed a reminder that I could rise again too,”
🤠“I’ve hated myself so long for wanting you,” Phoenix pants against me. “Even then. Even after you messed with my head… because f*** if you didn’t make me feel shit I’d never felt before.”
🐴“You taste like heaven,” I tell him. “And you f*** like hell,” he replies.
🤠“To finding love and f***in’ who you want.”
June 27, 2025
3.5/5 ⭐
From the Ashes is the third book in Jillian D. Wray’s Bring the Heat series. It can be enjoyed as a complete standalone. Here’s what you can expect from Phoenix and Walker:
🔥 MM contemporary romance
🔥 First person dual point of view
🔥 Guaranteed happily ever after
🔥 Open door spice
🔥 Firefighter
🔥 Bronc rider
🔥 Enemies to lovers
🔥 Forced proximity
🔥 Second chances
🔥 Secret tattoo
Ensure you review the content and trigger warnings to decide if this book is right for you. Note that there wasn’t a formal list of warnings available for this book, but I’m including the ones I think are the most significant. Please take care of yourself while reading.
I’m a sucker for a good cowboy romance, and when I saw this featured a bronc rider and firefighter I had to take a chance on it! Also, I absolutely love the covers in this series. They’re so beautiful and I think From the Ashes is a great representation of Phoenix and Walker. I haven’t read the first two books in the series, but prior reading wouldn’t be necessary to enjoy this addition. It also sets up the fourth book nicely, which is planned for the fall (Knox was quite an interesting side character).
The spice in this book was delicious, and I’m really impressed at how the author managed to capture the passion between Walker and Phoenix, from their very first hookup on the barn floor. The dirty talk was great, and I loved how insatiable they were for one another. I did struggle a bit with the relationship development between Walker and Phoenix. It felt like their entire connection was built on lust, and we didn’t really get to see any development until the very end of the story. Both characters have pieces of themselves they’re trying to heal when they meet and contribute to the events that pull them apart and eventually bring them back together nearly a decade later. I felt at times Walker could be a bit callous towards his past and the pain he caused Phoenix, and I don’t know if that was ever really resolved.
Overall, this was an enjoyable read but not a series I have decided if I’ll continue at this point. I love the found family dynamics too, although I found the side characters could be slightly overbearing at times. I like that you can read each book as a standalone though so readers have a choice!
I received an advanced review copy of this book from Afterword PA Services and am voluntarily leaving a review.
From the Ashes is the third book in Jillian D. Wray’s Bring the Heat series. It can be enjoyed as a complete standalone. Here’s what you can expect from Phoenix and Walker:
🔥 MM contemporary romance
🔥 First person dual point of view
🔥 Guaranteed happily ever after
🔥 Open door spice
🔥 Firefighter
🔥 Bronc rider
🔥 Enemies to lovers
🔥 Forced proximity
🔥 Second chances
🔥 Secret tattoo
Ensure you review the content and trigger warnings to decide if this book is right for you. Note that there wasn’t a formal list of warnings available for this book, but I’m including the ones I think are the most significant. Please take care of yourself while reading.
I’m a sucker for a good cowboy romance, and when I saw this featured a bronc rider and firefighter I had to take a chance on it! Also, I absolutely love the covers in this series. They’re so beautiful and I think From the Ashes is a great representation of Phoenix and Walker. I haven’t read the first two books in the series, but prior reading wouldn’t be necessary to enjoy this addition. It also sets up the fourth book nicely, which is planned for the fall (Knox was quite an interesting side character).
The spice in this book was delicious, and I’m really impressed at how the author managed to capture the passion between Walker and Phoenix, from their very first hookup on the barn floor. The dirty talk was great, and I loved how insatiable they were for one another. I did struggle a bit with the relationship development between Walker and Phoenix. It felt like their entire connection was built on lust, and we didn’t really get to see any development until the very end of the story. Both characters have pieces of themselves they’re trying to heal when they meet and contribute to the events that pull them apart and eventually bring them back together nearly a decade later. I felt at times Walker could be a bit callous towards his past and the pain he caused Phoenix, and I don’t know if that was ever really resolved.
Overall, this was an enjoyable read but not a series I have decided if I’ll continue at this point. I love the found family dynamics too, although I found the side characters could be slightly overbearing at times. I like that you can read each book as a standalone though so readers have a choice!
I received an advanced review copy of this book from Afterword PA Services and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 26, 2025
🤠🐎You're stronger than you think, and you're going to be okay🤠🐎
"This man is like my own kryptonite because there is nothing I love more than a dirty talker in a cowboy hat."
"Your quiet calmed my chaos and I wasn't ready for you to go."
"Kissing him conjures up every ounce of rage and self-loathing I have, while pulling away from him feels like shards of glass are being ground into my stomach."
"My obsession with him is the only thing that's kept me alive."
"Because phoenixes are reborn from their own ashes, and part of me died that night with you. I needed a reminder that I could rise again too."
"You saved my life, Phoenix. I could have burned in the fires of self-loathing only to end up in the pits of hell, but instead, I rose from the ashes thanks to you."
This series keeps getting better and better. I'm so sad that there is only one book left 😭😭. I was so exited to finally read Phoenix and Walker's story. Phoenix held my heart in the other books. This also had some good troupes like rivals to lovers, forced proximity, and cowboy/firefighter. The spice was also spicin in this one 🔥🔥🔥🔥.
This story follows Phoenix and Walker. This story starts out when they first met 8 years ago at the rodeo. Phoenix is the rodeo bronc champion the past 3 years and Walker is new and coming for his title. One look over a bonfire leads to some heated and sexy times 😏🥵🥵. Walker is hiding secrets and knows he can't be with Phoenix. Phoenix ends up getting hurt and ends his career. Now we're 8 years later and at the present time. Walker is in town competing at the rodeo where Phoenix lives. They reconnect and things not only get heated, but a lot of old demons come out between them. My heart broke for poor Walker and the weight he had to carry 😞😭.
God I loved these two men together. The past them and the present them are the same yet different. They both have grown but also have a lot of resentment, guilt, anger, and sadness. Despite what they both went through, they're still attracted and that spark never died for either of them. I loved seeing a deeper and emotional side to Phoenix. I loved seeing Walker finally be at peace and feel whole. These two had quite the back story and seeing them fall in love again to create a future was everything. The tension, angst, and spicy times were scorching hot 🥵🥵🔥🔥.
One of my favorite things about this series is the side characters and found family. I love every character in this book. I loved seeing the past couples. I can't wait to finally read about Knox! I loved the relationship between Cassie and Phoenix. Seeing Alexis and Colton added to this family for support was so adorable 🥰🥰. Such a fantastic series! Onto the last book 😭. 🔥🐴🐎🤠🚤
"This man is like my own kryptonite because there is nothing I love more than a dirty talker in a cowboy hat."
"Your quiet calmed my chaos and I wasn't ready for you to go."
"Kissing him conjures up every ounce of rage and self-loathing I have, while pulling away from him feels like shards of glass are being ground into my stomach."
"My obsession with him is the only thing that's kept me alive."
"Because phoenixes are reborn from their own ashes, and part of me died that night with you. I needed a reminder that I could rise again too."
"You saved my life, Phoenix. I could have burned in the fires of self-loathing only to end up in the pits of hell, but instead, I rose from the ashes thanks to you."
This series keeps getting better and better. I'm so sad that there is only one book left 😭😭. I was so exited to finally read Phoenix and Walker's story. Phoenix held my heart in the other books. This also had some good troupes like rivals to lovers, forced proximity, and cowboy/firefighter. The spice was also spicin in this one 🔥🔥🔥🔥.
This story follows Phoenix and Walker. This story starts out when they first met 8 years ago at the rodeo. Phoenix is the rodeo bronc champion the past 3 years and Walker is new and coming for his title. One look over a bonfire leads to some heated and sexy times 😏🥵🥵. Walker is hiding secrets and knows he can't be with Phoenix. Phoenix ends up getting hurt and ends his career. Now we're 8 years later and at the present time. Walker is in town competing at the rodeo where Phoenix lives. They reconnect and things not only get heated, but a lot of old demons come out between them. My heart broke for poor Walker and the weight he had to carry 😞😭.
God I loved these two men together. The past them and the present them are the same yet different. They both have grown but also have a lot of resentment, guilt, anger, and sadness. Despite what they both went through, they're still attracted and that spark never died for either of them. I loved seeing a deeper and emotional side to Phoenix. I loved seeing Walker finally be at peace and feel whole. These two had quite the back story and seeing them fall in love again to create a future was everything. The tension, angst, and spicy times were scorching hot 🥵🥵🔥🔥.
One of my favorite things about this series is the side characters and found family. I love every character in this book. I loved seeing the past couples. I can't wait to finally read about Knox! I loved the relationship between Cassie and Phoenix. Seeing Alexis and Colton added to this family for support was so adorable 🥰🥰. Such a fantastic series! Onto the last book 😭. 🔥🐴🐎🤠🚤
November 29, 2025
DNF @ 54%
I don't think Phoenix getting so worked up that he was Walker's first sexual experience with a man was believable (I don't understand why that was even such a big deal for Phoenix. When he did finally explain it as some supposed reaction to his own first time, it still didn't make sense and felt like manufactured melodrama). Doubly so for the fact that Phoenix was supposedly "ruined" for other men after sex with Walker. Are we supposed to believe that an 18 year old basically virgin-gay was so good at sex that Phoenix swore off men altogether for eight whole years when he supposedly preferred them? Also the 18 thing was kinda gross tbh, making Phoenix' supposed ruin even worse in my eyes.
This story really didn't land for me because I just couldn't believe that both Phoenix and Walker were so hung up on each other after one night that eight years later, they still couldn't get each other out of their heads. Walker I can kinda see because he should be feeling guilty and I guess thankful that Phoenix supposedly stopped a suicide attempt. Phoenix though? He should've either been angry or indifferent, not "I watch every one of your rides and I'm obsessed with you" for the guy he felt was responsible for the end of his beloved career AND he thought ignored him when he wanted acknowledgment for their sex the night prior.
Phoenix immediately jumping into caring for Walker after Knox forcibly invited him over to Phoenix's house was annoying. Phoenix was so against talking to Walker earlier, the fact that basically nothing had changed between them and yet he was willingly initiating conversation was just poor character writing. Was Phoenix angry or not? And if he a mix of both, the story did a poor job of trying to portray him as such because he'd swing wildly between the extremes without showing conflict (aka he should have shown guilt when he pushed away Walker + hesitation/disappointment in himself when he let him in).
When it became very clear that the entirety of Phoenix's attraction to Walker was the result of one night, I just had to peace out. The entire time I was reading, I just couldn't get over the fact that one night fueled eight years worth of passionate emotions. I get romance is supposed to be the genre where passion is king, but it needs believable justification otherwise it just reads as instalove (which is the absolute worst crime a romance novel can commit in my eyes).
2 stars.
I don't think Phoenix getting so worked up that he was Walker's first sexual experience with a man was believable (I don't understand why that was even such a big deal for Phoenix. When he did finally explain it as some supposed reaction to his own first time, it still didn't make sense and felt like manufactured melodrama). Doubly so for the fact that Phoenix was supposedly "ruined" for other men after sex with Walker. Are we supposed to believe that an 18 year old basically virgin-gay was so good at sex that Phoenix swore off men altogether for eight whole years when he supposedly preferred them? Also the 18 thing was kinda gross tbh, making Phoenix' supposed ruin even worse in my eyes.
This story really didn't land for me because I just couldn't believe that both Phoenix and Walker were so hung up on each other after one night that eight years later, they still couldn't get each other out of their heads. Walker I can kinda see because he should be feeling guilty and I guess thankful that Phoenix supposedly stopped a suicide attempt. Phoenix though? He should've either been angry or indifferent, not "I watch every one of your rides and I'm obsessed with you" for the guy he felt was responsible for the end of his beloved career AND he thought ignored him when he wanted acknowledgment for their sex the night prior.
Phoenix immediately jumping into caring for Walker after Knox forcibly invited him over to Phoenix's house was annoying. Phoenix was so against talking to Walker earlier, the fact that basically nothing had changed between them and yet he was willingly initiating conversation was just poor character writing. Was Phoenix angry or not? And if he a mix of both, the story did a poor job of trying to portray him as such because he'd swing wildly between the extremes without showing conflict (aka he should have shown guilt when he pushed away Walker + hesitation/disappointment in himself when he let him in).
When it became very clear that the entirety of Phoenix's attraction to Walker was the result of one night, I just had to peace out. The entire time I was reading, I just couldn't get over the fact that one night fueled eight years worth of passionate emotions. I get romance is supposed to be the genre where passion is king, but it needs believable justification otherwise it just reads as instalove (which is the absolute worst crime a romance novel can commit in my eyes).
2 stars.
June 20, 2025
ARC Review
I was so beyond excited when Jillian announced another MM book for Phoenix. Burn It Down was already one of my top-five reads of the year, so my expectations were high—and I’m happy to report they were largely met.
Phoenix and Walker are a great couple with complicated pasts—both together and individually. This made for a really interesting (but very slow burn) first half; mainly because the re-encounter consists largely of them navigating their feeling and situations with fragmented pieces of each other’s story. But the chemistry is always there and as the two reconnect over the span of the story and those broken pieces fall into place, the ending result is a truly sweet and impactful love story. Additionally, Wray is able to handles sensitive topics like depression and abortion very tastefully— adding a-lot of nuance to their work overall story and individual character acs.
As for the supporting cast, I have to admit I have completely fallen for this rag‑tag group of firefighters. Which made it hurt even more when Phoenix notes near the end how everyone’s growing into the next stages of their lives, and his concern for Knox. Like I actually got a little teary. So suffice to say, I’m really looking forward to Knox’s love story. The set up for his book was so good. However, on the flip side regarding our support characters…I will admit as much as love them all the level of meddling that came from them during certain points in the book got quite annoying at times. And that is largely the reason why I won't give this five stars. Like I was really disappointed that the final catalyst for our couple getting together was basically Walker airing out their business to all their friends. To be honest Phoe was no where near pissed enough at him for that, but maybe that just me. Also wasn’t really a fan of the "oddly perceptive friend" trope that we got with Cassie and Knox. I love them as characters but every time they were being pushy with Phoe, I found myself more aggravated at the lack of respect/boundaries rather than endeared with them.
All in all though, I really loved this book. I’ve been in a reading slump lately, and this was the first book this month that completely absorbed me. Definitely check it out—and if you haven’t yet, start with Burn It Down. I will definitely be seeing y’all for the the next one!
I was so beyond excited when Jillian announced another MM book for Phoenix. Burn It Down was already one of my top-five reads of the year, so my expectations were high—and I’m happy to report they were largely met.
Phoenix and Walker are a great couple with complicated pasts—both together and individually. This made for a really interesting (but very slow burn) first half; mainly because the re-encounter consists largely of them navigating their feeling and situations with fragmented pieces of each other’s story. But the chemistry is always there and as the two reconnect over the span of the story and those broken pieces fall into place, the ending result is a truly sweet and impactful love story. Additionally, Wray is able to handles sensitive topics like depression and abortion very tastefully— adding a-lot of nuance to their work overall story and individual character acs.
As for the supporting cast, I have to admit I have completely fallen for this rag‑tag group of firefighters. Which made it hurt even more when Phoenix notes near the end how everyone’s growing into the next stages of their lives, and his concern for Knox. Like I actually got a little teary. So suffice to say, I’m really looking forward to Knox’s love story. The set up for his book was so good. However, on the flip side regarding our support characters…I will admit as much as love them all the level of meddling that came from them during certain points in the book got quite annoying at times. And that is largely the reason why I won't give this five stars. Like I was really disappointed that the final catalyst for our couple getting together was basically Walker airing out their business to all their friends. To be honest Phoe was no where near pissed enough at him for that, but maybe that just me. Also wasn’t really a fan of the "oddly perceptive friend" trope that we got with Cassie and Knox. I love them as characters but every time they were being pushy with Phoe, I found myself more aggravated at the lack of respect/boundaries rather than endeared with them.
All in all though, I really loved this book. I’ve been in a reading slump lately, and this was the first book this month that completely absorbed me. Definitely check it out—and if you haven’t yet, start with Burn It Down. I will definitely be seeing y’all for the the next one!
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