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Nature of Love #3
Burning Down the House
There’s a reason they call it “falling” in love.
A new mycological research development calls mushroom scientist Dr. Aria Johnson home to Foxboro, Ohio. Within minutes of her arrival, Aria falls on and concusses Brodie Campbell, her high school flame and now sworn enemy.
Brodie thinks he’s changed since high school, now serving as Foxboro’s fire captain and chief thirst trap maker—for charity, of course. Aria finds this hard to believe. She avoids Brodie like a poisonous mushroom and suppresses those hurtful memories.
Brodie does the opposite, doing anything to put himself in Aria’s path and prove who he is today.
As Aria settles back into town, she learns that Brodie’s not the boy she left behind, but instead, a pillar of the community who would do anything for anybody.
And when Foxboro’s charity date auction shines a spotlight on them both, all hands start burning to raise a paddle.
Can Brodie prove he’s the choice to pick, or will Aria douse the flames on their love forever?
Burning Down the House is the third and final installment in the Nature of Love STEM novella series. It's a spicy, small town, firefighter, women in STEM romance.
A new mycological research development calls mushroom scientist Dr. Aria Johnson home to Foxboro, Ohio. Within minutes of her arrival, Aria falls on and concusses Brodie Campbell, her high school flame and now sworn enemy.
Brodie thinks he’s changed since high school, now serving as Foxboro’s fire captain and chief thirst trap maker—for charity, of course. Aria finds this hard to believe. She avoids Brodie like a poisonous mushroom and suppresses those hurtful memories.
Brodie does the opposite, doing anything to put himself in Aria’s path and prove who he is today.
As Aria settles back into town, she learns that Brodie’s not the boy she left behind, but instead, a pillar of the community who would do anything for anybody.
And when Foxboro’s charity date auction shines a spotlight on them both, all hands start burning to raise a paddle.
Can Brodie prove he’s the choice to pick, or will Aria douse the flames on their love forever?
Burning Down the House is the third and final installment in the Nature of Love STEM novella series. It's a spicy, small town, firefighter, women in STEM romance.
121 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 5, 2025
10 people are currently reading
62 people want to read
About the author
Dani Galliaro
13 books173 followersDani is a proud West Virginia native who gravitates toward nice little stories about people falling in love. She hopes to shift the narrative about Appalachia by telling stories of powerful everyday women from the region. She now resides in Southwest Ohio with her husband.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews
September 4, 2025
I enjoyed this book, again it’s a 3 book series.
Burning Down the House is the third and final installment in the Nature of Love STEM novella series. It's a spicy, small town, firefighter, women in STEM romance.
There’s a reason they call it “falling” in love.
Blurb
A new mycological research development calls mushroom scientist Dr. Aria Johnson home to Foxboro, Ohio. Within minutes of her arrival, Aria falls on and concusses Brodie Campbell, her high school flame and now sworn enemy.
Brodie thinks he’s changed since high school, now serving as Foxboro’s fire captain and chief thirst trap maker—for charity, of course. Aria finds this hard to believe. She avoids Brodie like a poisonous mushroom and suppresses those hurtful memories.
Brodie does the opposite, doing anything to put himself in Aria’s path and prove who he is today.
As Aria settles back into town, she learns that Brodie’s not the boy she left behind, but instead, a pillar of the community who would do anything for anybody.
And when Foxboro’s charity date auction shines a spotlight on them both, all hands start burning to raise a paddle.
Can Brodie prove he’s the choice to pick, or will Aria douse the flames on their love forever?
Burning Down the House is the third and final installment in the Nature of Love STEM novella series. It's a spicy, small town, firefighter, women in STEM romance.
There’s a reason they call it “falling” in love.
Blurb
A new mycological research development calls mushroom scientist Dr. Aria Johnson home to Foxboro, Ohio. Within minutes of her arrival, Aria falls on and concusses Brodie Campbell, her high school flame and now sworn enemy.
Brodie thinks he’s changed since high school, now serving as Foxboro’s fire captain and chief thirst trap maker—for charity, of course. Aria finds this hard to believe. She avoids Brodie like a poisonous mushroom and suppresses those hurtful memories.
Brodie does the opposite, doing anything to put himself in Aria’s path and prove who he is today.
As Aria settles back into town, she learns that Brodie’s not the boy she left behind, but instead, a pillar of the community who would do anything for anybody.
And when Foxboro’s charity date auction shines a spotlight on them both, all hands start burning to raise a paddle.
Can Brodie prove he’s the choice to pick, or will Aria douse the flames on their love forever?
September 2, 2025
Second chance romance between a firefighter and a mycologist? Yes please. Aria left home to get her PhD after her and her former best friend Brodie went different ways in high school. She returns to study some local fungi. Brodie sees her and instantly his feelings come back but she makes him work for her forgiveness.
August 25, 2025
This one was not for me. I liked elements of it like the second chance and first love tropes, but the writing fell flat.
August 19, 2025
“I should have chosen you every time, Ari.”
Oh my spaghetti. 🥹🥹🥹
Dani did it again and didn’t disappoint. I seriously found my favorite of all. Found family, the angst, the second chance, small town. I love when the FMC is strong. I love how she let Brodie know her worth. And I love the fact he did everything to get her back. I love reading their story. ❤️❤️ I loved this one very much.
Oh my spaghetti. 🥹🥹🥹
Dani did it again and didn’t disappoint. I seriously found my favorite of all. Found family, the angst, the second chance, small town. I love when the FMC is strong. I love how she let Brodie know her worth. And I love the fact he did everything to get her back. I love reading their story. ❤️❤️ I loved this one very much.
September 4, 2025
This second chance romance was such a fungi-filled delight! 🍄🧯
Ari (FMC): Doctor of Biology • Mycologist • Free Spirit • Lover of the Woods •
Brodie (MMC): Fire Captain • Former Hockey Player • Heart of Gold •
Tropes:
🍄🟫 Fire Captain x Scientist
🔥 Second Chance
🍄🟫 Childhood Friends to Lovers
🔥 Small Town Romance
🍄🟫 Novella
🔥 Low Angst
🍄🟫 So Many Mushrooms
🔥 Found Family
🍄🟫 Adorable Sidekick 🐕
Rating: 🍄🍄🍄.🧯 (3.75⭐️)
Spice: 🌶️🫑(dirty talk, praise, 👅, begging, self pleasure)
T/W: parental death (referenced), car accident (referenced), house fire (on page), smoke inhalation injury (on page), hospital scenes (on page), childhood bullying (on page), cancer (referenced), physical altercation (on page)
This little novella was the perfect second chance treat. Ari, a brilliant mycologist, comes home to hunt down a rare species of mushrooms and instead finds herself face to face (technically face to feet) with Brodie, her childhood best friend and first crush turned small town fire captain. Their past is messy(he stood by when the hockey boys made her life miserable), but their chemistry is still thriving like fungi in the dark.
I adored how strong Ari was. She knows her worth and makes Brodie earn every inch of forgiveness. While his redemption arc was mushroom-level growth: slow, steady, and surprisingly beautiful. The way he fought for her, owned his mistakes, and showed up again and again made me swoon. And when you add in swoony apology notes, found family vibes, tender spice, and even a rat-dog named Templeton stealing the show, this book had me rooting for them every step of the way. Quick, heartfelt, and surprisingly deep, you’ll want to devour this in one sitting.
If you like your romance earthy, emotional, and a little wild, this is one mushroom hunt you won’t regret joining. 🍄
I received an ARC copy and wanted to leave an honest review.
Ari (FMC): Doctor of Biology • Mycologist • Free Spirit • Lover of the Woods •
Brodie (MMC): Fire Captain • Former Hockey Player • Heart of Gold •
Tropes:
🍄🟫 Fire Captain x Scientist
🔥 Second Chance
🍄🟫 Childhood Friends to Lovers
🔥 Small Town Romance
🍄🟫 Novella
🔥 Low Angst
🍄🟫 So Many Mushrooms
🔥 Found Family
🍄🟫 Adorable Sidekick 🐕
Rating: 🍄🍄🍄.🧯 (3.75⭐️)
Spice: 🌶️🫑(dirty talk, praise, 👅, begging, self pleasure)
T/W: parental death (referenced), car accident (referenced), house fire (on page), smoke inhalation injury (on page), hospital scenes (on page), childhood bullying (on page), cancer (referenced), physical altercation (on page)
This little novella was the perfect second chance treat. Ari, a brilliant mycologist, comes home to hunt down a rare species of mushrooms and instead finds herself face to face (technically face to feet) with Brodie, her childhood best friend and first crush turned small town fire captain. Their past is messy(he stood by when the hockey boys made her life miserable), but their chemistry is still thriving like fungi in the dark.
I adored how strong Ari was. She knows her worth and makes Brodie earn every inch of forgiveness. While his redemption arc was mushroom-level growth: slow, steady, and surprisingly beautiful. The way he fought for her, owned his mistakes, and showed up again and again made me swoon. And when you add in swoony apology notes, found family vibes, tender spice, and even a rat-dog named Templeton stealing the show, this book had me rooting for them every step of the way. Quick, heartfelt, and surprisingly deep, you’ll want to devour this in one sitting.
If you like your romance earthy, emotional, and a little wild, this is one mushroom hunt you won’t regret joining. 🍄
I received an ARC copy and wanted to leave an honest review.
December 19, 2025
This book feels like standing outside on a crisp fall night, surrounded by familiar faces, realizing that some things are worth rebuilding — even after they burn.
Burning Down the House is a small-town second-chance romance rooted in redemption, community, and the kind of love that doesn’t disappear just because time passes. It understands that coming home isn’t always easy, and forgiveness — of others and of yourself — takes real work.
The firefighter MMC carries a quiet weight that makes his redemption arc feel earned rather than rushed. His growth isn’t flashy. It shows up in accountability, consistency, and the willingness to face the people and places he once ran from. Watching him reclaim his place in the town — and in her life — is deeply satisfying.
The fall festival setting adds so much warmth to the story. There’s something about autumn in a small town that amplifies emotion: shared traditions, long memories, and the sense that everyone is watching — but also rooting for you. The found family element wraps around the romance beautifully, reinforcing the idea that healing rarely happens alone.
What I appreciated most is how grounded this book feels. The second chance isn’t treated lightly. The past matters. The hurt matters. But so does the possibility of something better, built on honesty and choice rather than nostalgia alone.
At its heart, Burning Down the House is about redemption — not just in love, but in life. About proving that growth is possible, and that sometimes the bravest thing you can do is return to the place where everything started and try again.
I finished this book feeling warm, hopeful, and quietly emotional — the kind of feeling that lingers like the last embers of a good fire.
Tropes you’ll find inside:
small-town romance
firefighter MMC
second chance love
fall festival vibes
redemption arc
found family
This one is perfect for readers who love cozy settings with real emotional payoff 🍂🔥📖
Burning Down the House is a small-town second-chance romance rooted in redemption, community, and the kind of love that doesn’t disappear just because time passes. It understands that coming home isn’t always easy, and forgiveness — of others and of yourself — takes real work.
The firefighter MMC carries a quiet weight that makes his redemption arc feel earned rather than rushed. His growth isn’t flashy. It shows up in accountability, consistency, and the willingness to face the people and places he once ran from. Watching him reclaim his place in the town — and in her life — is deeply satisfying.
The fall festival setting adds so much warmth to the story. There’s something about autumn in a small town that amplifies emotion: shared traditions, long memories, and the sense that everyone is watching — but also rooting for you. The found family element wraps around the romance beautifully, reinforcing the idea that healing rarely happens alone.
What I appreciated most is how grounded this book feels. The second chance isn’t treated lightly. The past matters. The hurt matters. But so does the possibility of something better, built on honesty and choice rather than nostalgia alone.
At its heart, Burning Down the House is about redemption — not just in love, but in life. About proving that growth is possible, and that sometimes the bravest thing you can do is return to the place where everything started and try again.
I finished this book feeling warm, hopeful, and quietly emotional — the kind of feeling that lingers like the last embers of a good fire.
Tropes you’ll find inside:
small-town romance
firefighter MMC
second chance love
fall festival vibes
redemption arc
found family
This one is perfect for readers who love cozy settings with real emotional payoff 🍂🔥📖
September 19, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️️⭐️/ ️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Novella number 3 in her Nature of Love series, Dani Galliaro has written a quick, fun, enjoyable, short story that brings a fire chief and mushroom scientist together again after years apart. These two once pined for each other, but life had other plans. Now sworn enemies, these two collide back in their small hometown. Will years of growing up and maturing help these two find those feelings again? Or will the past be too big to overcome?
When Brodie and Ari run into each other, literally, back in their small hometown, Ari is determined to avoid him. I adored Ari’s character. But who can’t love a quick witted, smart as heck woman who knows her worth and won’t accept anything else! Which is why, after Brodie humiliated her in high school, she isn’t quick to let the past be the past. She isn’t someone’s secret.
Brodie has definitely grown up a lot since high school. He cares deeply for his community and does what he can to help where he can. He now knows he messed up, but is having a hard time getting Ari to forgive him. As he continues to show Ari how much he has changed, she can’t ignore the spark that is still there. But Brodie has a lot of groveling to do and hurt to make up for.
Dani always delivers MCs that make her stories amazing. No matter the length of her book, the character's growth never feels rushed, but rather organic and real. Ari and Brodie are no different. While the path to letting the past go isn’t easy, it is worth the read. These two had me salivating and begging to finally give in. Each novella in this series is worth the short time you spend reading and truly showcases Dani’s amazing storytelling abilities.
As always, review any author notes before reading.
What to Expect:
🍄Mushroom Scientist FMC
🚒Firefighter MMC
🍄Second Chance Romance
🚒Small Town Romance
🍄Found Family
🚒Women in STEM
Novella number 3 in her Nature of Love series, Dani Galliaro has written a quick, fun, enjoyable, short story that brings a fire chief and mushroom scientist together again after years apart. These two once pined for each other, but life had other plans. Now sworn enemies, these two collide back in their small hometown. Will years of growing up and maturing help these two find those feelings again? Or will the past be too big to overcome?
When Brodie and Ari run into each other, literally, back in their small hometown, Ari is determined to avoid him. I adored Ari’s character. But who can’t love a quick witted, smart as heck woman who knows her worth and won’t accept anything else! Which is why, after Brodie humiliated her in high school, she isn’t quick to let the past be the past. She isn’t someone’s secret.
Brodie has definitely grown up a lot since high school. He cares deeply for his community and does what he can to help where he can. He now knows he messed up, but is having a hard time getting Ari to forgive him. As he continues to show Ari how much he has changed, she can’t ignore the spark that is still there. But Brodie has a lot of groveling to do and hurt to make up for.
Dani always delivers MCs that make her stories amazing. No matter the length of her book, the character's growth never feels rushed, but rather organic and real. Ari and Brodie are no different. While the path to letting the past go isn’t easy, it is worth the read. These two had me salivating and begging to finally give in. Each novella in this series is worth the short time you spend reading and truly showcases Dani’s amazing storytelling abilities.
As always, review any author notes before reading.
What to Expect:
🍄Mushroom Scientist FMC
🚒Firefighter MMC
🍄Second Chance Romance
🚒Small Town Romance
🍄Found Family
🚒Women in STEM
September 2, 2025
This story was a perfect end to the series! There is so much packed into 120 pages. It had me laughing, crying, screaming, swearing, eye rolling, stressing, and hating.
Aria is a mushroom scientist who is incredibly smart and has built an online following of people who love her fungi escapades & knowledge.
Brodie is a firefighter who cares a lot about his community and does whatever he can to help them.
They met as children and became feral forest friends. But only in the summer because he was too cool to be friends with a weirdo when others could see. And he ended up rejecting & hurting Aria as a result of this and their friendship/relationship ended. So, it has been years since they last saw each other when she drops in on him during his run through the forest. Their reunion doesn't go great. And it kind of gets worse and then better and then worse again. It is excellent.
Their story is beautiful, intense & emotional. And their spicy times are very yummy. Love!
Now. Full disclosure, as the weird kid nobody wanted to be friends with, I resonated with Aria and initially thought Brodie could go to hell, regardless of how many kittens he has saved from trees or calendars he sold to help his community. But Dani being the writing genius that she is managed to make me his biggest fan. His journey of growth & learning is really sweet and I loved how imperfect he was.
I received this as an ARC and am beyond grateful. This had zero impact on my review, which was only influenced by the story.
Aria is a mushroom scientist who is incredibly smart and has built an online following of people who love her fungi escapades & knowledge.
Brodie is a firefighter who cares a lot about his community and does whatever he can to help them.
They met as children and became feral forest friends. But only in the summer because he was too cool to be friends with a weirdo when others could see. And he ended up rejecting & hurting Aria as a result of this and their friendship/relationship ended. So, it has been years since they last saw each other when she drops in on him during his run through the forest. Their reunion doesn't go great. And it kind of gets worse and then better and then worse again. It is excellent.
Their story is beautiful, intense & emotional. And their spicy times are very yummy. Love!
Now. Full disclosure, as the weird kid nobody wanted to be friends with, I resonated with Aria and initially thought Brodie could go to hell, regardless of how many kittens he has saved from trees or calendars he sold to help his community. But Dani being the writing genius that she is managed to make me his biggest fan. His journey of growth & learning is really sweet and I loved how imperfect he was.
I received this as an ARC and am beyond grateful. This had zero impact on my review, which was only influenced by the story.
August 12, 2025
4.5 ⭐️
|ARC|
⋆ dual pov
⋆ small town
⋆ found family
⋆ second chance
⋆ firefighter x scientist
_________
Well this was honestly such a cute little novella! Burning Down the House is a small town second chance romance where we follow our FMC Aria as she takes a step back into her home town to do some mushroom research with an old friend while also trying her hardest to avoid a certain firefighter and our MMC Brodie as he tries to do his best as a firefighter in this small town. We watch through their eyes as old history and pain are brought back to the surface and as a redemption arc begins to play out.
I gotta say I really loved these two! Aria and Brodie just made so much sense together and watching their journey was so satisfying! Aria is such a strong character and knows her worth and won’t take anyone’s bs! Brodies drive to prove Aria that she is worth everything to him was so fun! It wasn’t a smooth road but in the end it was everything! I loved watching these two rekindle their relationship after such a long time!
Dani does such a good job with these novellas!! We get all the information and context needed to understand and enjoy this book without feeling like it needed more! Obviously I would’ve loved to have more of these two, I mean who wouldn’t but it was so well written and I loved everything about it! I’m super excited to read more from Dani in the future!
Overall, I had a great time reading this novella! Thank you so much Dani Galliaro for the ARC and can’t wait to read more soon!! 🍄🟫🧯🤍
|ARC|
⋆ dual pov
⋆ small town
⋆ found family
⋆ second chance
⋆ firefighter x scientist
_________
Well this was honestly such a cute little novella! Burning Down the House is a small town second chance romance where we follow our FMC Aria as she takes a step back into her home town to do some mushroom research with an old friend while also trying her hardest to avoid a certain firefighter and our MMC Brodie as he tries to do his best as a firefighter in this small town. We watch through their eyes as old history and pain are brought back to the surface and as a redemption arc begins to play out.
I gotta say I really loved these two! Aria and Brodie just made so much sense together and watching their journey was so satisfying! Aria is such a strong character and knows her worth and won’t take anyone’s bs! Brodies drive to prove Aria that she is worth everything to him was so fun! It wasn’t a smooth road but in the end it was everything! I loved watching these two rekindle their relationship after such a long time!
Dani does such a good job with these novellas!! We get all the information and context needed to understand and enjoy this book without feeling like it needed more! Obviously I would’ve loved to have more of these two, I mean who wouldn’t but it was so well written and I loved everything about it! I’m super excited to read more from Dani in the future!
Overall, I had a great time reading this novella! Thank you so much Dani Galliaro for the ARC and can’t wait to read more soon!! 🍄🟫🧯🤍
August 8, 2025
ARC Read coming to you 🔥🚒
📚- Burning Down the House by @danigalliaroauthor
Rating: 5⭐️
Spice rating: 3.75 🌶️
What to expect in Burning Down the House:
🔥 - seconds chances
🍄 - found family
🔥 - firefighter
🍄 - she’s the scientist
🔥 - small town
Thoughts & Feelings:
Well. Dani has done it again, another one of her books I’ve sacrificed sleep over. Yes I read it all in one go, yes as I’m writing this it’s 2:42am. Anyways! On to the book… I LOVED Brodie & Ari. Everything about them, the flaws, the mistakes, it made them unique. And well, they where chaotic from time to time. Brodie constantly loosing his mind. And Ari standing her ground and not backing down.
Special mention for Templeton… cutest, rat looking dog.
“I guess witches come in all flavours these days”.
“Baby Bwodie gwumpy. He needs his bottle”
“Brodie. Easy, big. You and templeton aren’t that different”
✨🫶🏻Thank you again for the opportunity to ARC yet another one of your books Dani 🫶🏻✨
🏷️:
#newbookalert #newbookstagram #arcread #advancedreaderscopy #advancedreader #book #firefighterromancebooks #firefighterbook #danigalliaroauthor #danigalliaro #enemiestolovers #foundfamily #smalltown #smalltownromance #bookstagram #bookstagrammer
📚- Burning Down the House by @danigalliaroauthor
Rating: 5⭐️
Spice rating: 3.75 🌶️
What to expect in Burning Down the House:
🔥 - seconds chances
🍄 - found family
🔥 - firefighter
🍄 - she’s the scientist
🔥 - small town
Thoughts & Feelings:
Well. Dani has done it again, another one of her books I’ve sacrificed sleep over. Yes I read it all in one go, yes as I’m writing this it’s 2:42am. Anyways! On to the book… I LOVED Brodie & Ari. Everything about them, the flaws, the mistakes, it made them unique. And well, they where chaotic from time to time. Brodie constantly loosing his mind. And Ari standing her ground and not backing down.
Special mention for Templeton… cutest, rat looking dog.
“I guess witches come in all flavours these days”.
“Baby Bwodie gwumpy. He needs his bottle”
“Brodie. Easy, big. You and templeton aren’t that different”
✨🫶🏻Thank you again for the opportunity to ARC yet another one of your books Dani 🫶🏻✨
🏷️:
#newbookalert #newbookstagram #arcread #advancedreaderscopy #advancedreader #book #firefighterromancebooks #firefighterbook #danigalliaroauthor #danigalliaro #enemiestolovers #foundfamily #smalltown #smalltownromance #bookstagram #bookstagrammer
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 7, 2025
Thank you to @danigalliaroauthor for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Aria is back in Foxboro to study mushrooms when she bumps into Brodie, her “first kiss and worse enemy”. They have a lot of history, a lot of memories, and a lot of hurt between them. Aria was the nerd in school that felt most like herself when she was in the woods. Brodie, was different in school than when it was just him and Aria in the woods which led to a lot of complicated feelings on both their parts. Now they are reunited, and they not only have a lot questions, confusion and maybe some anger toward each other, but they also have some undeniable chemistry.
Dani weaves in their past with their present so we can understand what went wrong with these two. I cried and laughed and then I rooted for them to get their act together.
One of my favorite parts is when he wins Aria in the auction.
This is a second chance romance, small town, childhood friends to enemies, that will put on your heart strings.
One last thing, I love when the smart girl gets the hot fireman!
Aria is back in Foxboro to study mushrooms when she bumps into Brodie, her “first kiss and worse enemy”. They have a lot of history, a lot of memories, and a lot of hurt between them. Aria was the nerd in school that felt most like herself when she was in the woods. Brodie, was different in school than when it was just him and Aria in the woods which led to a lot of complicated feelings on both their parts. Now they are reunited, and they not only have a lot questions, confusion and maybe some anger toward each other, but they also have some undeniable chemistry.
Dani weaves in their past with their present so we can understand what went wrong with these two. I cried and laughed and then I rooted for them to get their act together.
One of my favorite parts is when he wins Aria in the auction.
This is a second chance romance, small town, childhood friends to enemies, that will put on your heart strings.
One last thing, I love when the smart girl gets the hot fireman!
September 6, 2025
This was a nice and quick read that I highly recommend! I found it to be a lot of fun and to have wonderful pacing for a novella where it did not feel like a ton of plot was crammed into a few pages, but also did not feel like there were a ton of moments skipped that I would've liked to see.
I thought the MCs were well-matched, being quite distinct yet working together effectively. I loved how they both acknowledged and wanted to work on their flaws together. It was so much healthier than I see in a lot of bookish relationships. I felt like the plot blended perfectly to bring them together without being overly forceful.
The ending was oh so cute and totally fit the characters, so I wanted to shout it out. No spoilers here, though!
There are a couple of open-door spicy scenes, but they can be skipped without missing too much plot.
I received this book as an ARC from the author. My review is honest and voluntary.
I thought the MCs were well-matched, being quite distinct yet working together effectively. I loved how they both acknowledged and wanted to work on their flaws together. It was so much healthier than I see in a lot of bookish relationships. I felt like the plot blended perfectly to bring them together without being overly forceful.
The ending was oh so cute and totally fit the characters, so I wanted to shout it out. No spoilers here, though!
There are a couple of open-door spicy scenes, but they can be skipped without missing too much plot.
I received this book as an ARC from the author. My review is honest and voluntary.
September 11, 2025
Book Rating:⭐ 4/5
Spice Rating:🌶️ 1/5
Burning Down the House is such a sweet and cozy small-town second-chance romance. We’ve got Aria, a mushroom scientist with brains and confidence, and Brodie, a firefighter with a whole lot of heart. Match made for one another, obviously! Their past gave their reunion so much good tension and emotion, and I loved watching them find their way back to each other. It was swoon worthy!
Even though this is the third book in the series, it totally works as a standalone. But, I would suggest reading the other two as well!
The spice is light, but the feels were soooo strong. It’s quick, heartfelt, and full of those warm fuzzy “it’s always been you” vibes which is just perfect for cozy season. If you’re looking for a novella that delivers small-town charm, STEM meets romance, a redemption arc, and a firefighter you can’t help but root for, this is the one to pick up.
Spice Rating:🌶️ 1/5
Burning Down the House is such a sweet and cozy small-town second-chance romance. We’ve got Aria, a mushroom scientist with brains and confidence, and Brodie, a firefighter with a whole lot of heart. Match made for one another, obviously! Their past gave their reunion so much good tension and emotion, and I loved watching them find their way back to each other. It was swoon worthy!
Even though this is the third book in the series, it totally works as a standalone. But, I would suggest reading the other two as well!
The spice is light, but the feels were soooo strong. It’s quick, heartfelt, and full of those warm fuzzy “it’s always been you” vibes which is just perfect for cozy season. If you’re looking for a novella that delivers small-town charm, STEM meets romance, a redemption arc, and a firefighter you can’t help but root for, this is the one to pick up.
September 1, 2025
🍄🔥Burning Down The House by Dani Galliaro🔥🍄
121 Pages
Nature Of Love Book 3
What a beautiful quick read, one that i cannot wait to re read and feel it all over again.
This book follows Arias return to her home town of Foxboro to help with some research of potentially new strain of mushrooms, what she wasnt expecting was to litterally fall onto the one person she wasnt expecting to see.
This was just the cutest little read I needed today, it was emotional in the best way and such an incredible way to wrap it all up. This was the second chance, redemption arc of dreams and I was so here for it!
I would highly recommend this series it promises to make you feel all warm and fuzzy and want to kick back with a hot chocolate. For fans of Second Chances, Small Town Romances, Firefighter MMC, Scientist FMC, Found Family and some delicious Spicy goodness.
121 Pages
Nature Of Love Book 3
What a beautiful quick read, one that i cannot wait to re read and feel it all over again.
This book follows Arias return to her home town of Foxboro to help with some research of potentially new strain of mushrooms, what she wasnt expecting was to litterally fall onto the one person she wasnt expecting to see.
This was just the cutest little read I needed today, it was emotional in the best way and such an incredible way to wrap it all up. This was the second chance, redemption arc of dreams and I was so here for it!
I would highly recommend this series it promises to make you feel all warm and fuzzy and want to kick back with a hot chocolate. For fans of Second Chances, Small Town Romances, Firefighter MMC, Scientist FMC, Found Family and some delicious Spicy goodness.
August 11, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - 4 Stars
🌶 - Spice Level
Aria and Brodie were great friends until they weren't in high school. Brodie, the jock didn't want to be associated with the nerd, so he dropped her. Ten years later, she returns to their hometown and literally falls onto him in the woods where they first became friends and sweethearts.
This was a very quick read for second chance romance between the two main characters. Brodie had to grovel and apologize for years past. There was only 1 spicy scene and one nice tensioned kiss. If you liked this book, the other short novellas would be worth the read.
⚠️ Read content and trigger warnings ⚠️
Thank you, author, for the ARC!
Release Date: September 5, 2025
🌶 - Spice Level
Aria and Brodie were great friends until they weren't in high school. Brodie, the jock didn't want to be associated with the nerd, so he dropped her. Ten years later, she returns to their hometown and literally falls onto him in the woods where they first became friends and sweethearts.
This was a very quick read for second chance romance between the two main characters. Brodie had to grovel and apologize for years past. There was only 1 spicy scene and one nice tensioned kiss. If you liked this book, the other short novellas would be worth the read.
⚠️ Read content and trigger warnings ⚠️
Thank you, author, for the ARC!
Release Date: September 5, 2025
August 31, 2025
This was such a good rom-com read. I am sad that this is the last book in the Nature of Love Series. Each one has been amazing! I loved Aria and Brodie so much. Despite her troubles growing up and never fitting in, Aria was a very headstrong character and the banter between her and Brodie was sometimes so hilarious. She definitely cracked me up. Brodie is such an amazing guy, and I really don't think he realized exactly what his actions caused until they were reunited. They were perfect for each other. I loved how Granny even got her HEA! This was a very quick and enjoying read. Ohh, and my favorite part was learning a little bit about mushrooms. That was totally cool. I highly recommend you give this whole series a try!
October 18, 2025
4⭐ 2🌶️
This was a fabulous shorter read. The background of the two main characters was really well woven into the plot as it unfolded. Just magical. The author did a fabulous job of developing and providing depth to the two characters. The MMC was a fabulous golden retriever that was so keen to earn forgiveness when he realises what he did wrong. The FMC really brings the hate, but after a few stutters she was able to grow past it and forgive the MMC. Oh, I have to note that the FMC's area of expertise was so interesting. Also, the side characters were great. The epilogue is one of the loveliest I've read in a long time
Big thanks to Dani Galliaro for a copy of this book. This is my honest opinion
This was a fabulous shorter read. The background of the two main characters was really well woven into the plot as it unfolded. Just magical. The author did a fabulous job of developing and providing depth to the two characters. The MMC was a fabulous golden retriever that was so keen to earn forgiveness when he realises what he did wrong. The FMC really brings the hate, but after a few stutters she was able to grow past it and forgive the MMC. Oh, I have to note that the FMC's area of expertise was so interesting. Also, the side characters were great. The epilogue is one of the loveliest I've read in a long time
Big thanks to Dani Galliaro for a copy of this book. This is my honest opinion
August 7, 2025
Aria is back in Foxboro, Ohio to study mushrooms with her PhD. Brody is the fire chief and just happens to be Aria’s former childhood friend and first kiss. We get some great flashbacks to them as kids and teenagers to see how much Brody hurt Aria when they were younger.
This romcom novella brings cameos from other town residents and couples in the previous novellas but also stands completely alone if you haven’t read the other novellas.
My favorite things:
💕Found family
💜Second chance romance
💕Small town setting
💜Emotional but heartwarming story
💕Romcom vibes
I read an early copy of this book.
This romcom novella brings cameos from other town residents and couples in the previous novellas but also stands completely alone if you haven’t read the other novellas.
My favorite things:
💕Found family
💜Second chance romance
💕Small town setting
💜Emotional but heartwarming story
💕Romcom vibes
I read an early copy of this book.
August 7, 2025
Such a sweet cute and adorable love story of childhood friends, and crushes that cared deeply for one another. til one day - emotions and popularity and just life- makes it all change.
Years later - diplomas and degrees and life literally has you crashing back into each other’s orbits- and all those feels come back. You realize that love never truly left, it lingered.
Groveling, apologizes, an auction, dates, woods, mushrooms, elder family members… and love ? Is that enough to bring them together ? yes. yes it was. because it truly ended it the absolute most gorgeous and transcendent way 🩷
Years later - diplomas and degrees and life literally has you crashing back into each other’s orbits- and all those feels come back. You realize that love never truly left, it lingered.
Groveling, apologizes, an auction, dates, woods, mushrooms, elder family members… and love ? Is that enough to bring them together ? yes. yes it was. because it truly ended it the absolute most gorgeous and transcendent way 🩷
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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August 12, 2025Three words to describe this book:
Childhood Friend Novella
For fans of:
Friends turned enemies to lovers
Out of 5⭐️: 3⭐️
Aria and Brodie were childhood friends. Aria is the curious and beautiful science nerd. Brodie is the popular jock, grown into the 🔥🔥🔥 fire fighter.
In high school, Brodie pushed Aria away in a cruel way and she never forgot it!
When Aria returns to town will these former friends reconnect and find that friendship again?
This is such a short story and I wish it had been longer!! These are great characters and I wish I could dive more into their stories. This one ended up feeling so rushed to me and with less than 150 pages, that’s to be expected.
Childhood Friend Novella
For fans of:
Friends turned enemies to lovers
Out of 5⭐️: 3⭐️
Aria and Brodie were childhood friends. Aria is the curious and beautiful science nerd. Brodie is the popular jock, grown into the 🔥🔥🔥 fire fighter.
In high school, Brodie pushed Aria away in a cruel way and she never forgot it!
When Aria returns to town will these former friends reconnect and find that friendship again?
This is such a short story and I wish it had been longer!! These are great characters and I wish I could dive more into their stories. This one ended up feeling so rushed to me and with less than 150 pages, that’s to be expected.
August 13, 2025
I’ve been a fan of @DaniGalliarobooks since Puck Honey. This was different a little slower getting the story out. This a childhood friend to enemies to lover small town romance. I’m not usually a fan of enemies to lovers but since I’ve read Dani before I was like let me check it out. FMC is a mushroom scientist didn’t that was a thing but ok she lived with her Grandmother and does forest content videos with a fellow elderly neighbor. She is a bitter person from how people treated her in the past. The MMC is a firefighter who used to be her best friend but didn’t realize that he treated her bad in high school so he set out to win her back. This was slow building but some what enjoyed it.
August 14, 2025
Brodie and Aria are childhood friends who reconnect when Aria returns to her hometown. This story was short and sweet. There is some pain and growth from both our FMC and MMC and reading their story as that pain resurfaces was sad but the way they reconnected and grew really did this story right. If you’re looking for a quick read that will give you some swoon feelings this is it! Aria is a very strong FMC and Brodie is the towns super sexy firefighter who is trying to redeem himself and show Aria she is his and she is worth loving. Even though this story was short you still got all of the necessary information to make it feel complete.
August 24, 2025
Burning Down the House is the third romance in the Nature of Love series. Aria and Brodie used to be friends when they were younger, but it didn’t last. Now they are back in each other’s lives they may not be able to avoid each other. The charity auction in town has them back together again and Aria’s not sure she can resist Brodie any longer.
I found this to be a cute, quick romance read that was so easy to fly through. It took no time at all to get into this story and devour this romance. I enjoyed both the main characters, as well as the side characters. This romance was cute and fluffy and exactly what I needed in a book right now.
I found this to be a cute, quick romance read that was so easy to fly through. It took no time at all to get into this story and devour this romance. I enjoyed both the main characters, as well as the side characters. This romance was cute and fluffy and exactly what I needed in a book right now.
September 5, 2025
A second chance they never expected
This was a fun and quick read. Years ago these two were best friends that kinda reached more but only in the summer. As soon as school started she was forgotten again.
He is the fire captain who uses his looks to help his town. His thirst trap videos and the calendar make plenty of money to help the town.
She does videos in the forest about mushrooms. Now she's back because a new mushroom has been found.
When everything aligned they were forced back together. They saw the same events differently and it definitely takes time and effort to find a new normal.
This was a fun and quick read. Years ago these two were best friends that kinda reached more but only in the summer. As soon as school started she was forgotten again.
He is the fire captain who uses his looks to help his town. His thirst trap videos and the calendar make plenty of money to help the town.
She does videos in the forest about mushrooms. Now she's back because a new mushroom has been found.
When everything aligned they were forced back together. They saw the same events differently and it definitely takes time and effort to find a new normal.
September 7, 2025
I love when authors make STEM sexy stories. This one is no different. You have a firefighter. A mushroom scientist. And a charity auction that helps push forward some second chances that these two need.
This is a fast paced novella in a 3 part series. It is not necessary to read the others to follow along with this one - I did not and do not feel like I missed anything. Dani also does a wonderful job of giving us a complete story in a novella length. I don't feel like anything was left out of the story or should have been expanded.
Recommend this one for those that like the novella length looking for STEM romance, second chance, found family, and I will argue for an "it's always been you" moment.
This is a fast paced novella in a 3 part series. It is not necessary to read the others to follow along with this one - I did not and do not feel like I missed anything. Dani also does a wonderful job of giving us a complete story in a novella length. I don't feel like anything was left out of the story or should have been expanded.
Recommend this one for those that like the novella length looking for STEM romance, second chance, found family, and I will argue for an "it's always been you" moment.
September 10, 2025
Burning Down the House was such a fun return to Foxboro. I loved the little cameos from familiar characters - it made the small-town charm shine even brighter.
At its heart, this is a great second chance romance. The characters had a falling out as teenagers, but watching them work through old pain, find their way back to each other, and take their friendship to a new level was so satisfying.
I adored the quirky, small-town atmosphere, and I especially loved that Dr. Aria Johnson is outdoorsy and dedicated to her mycological research. It gave her character such a unique edge.
And the steam? Spot on, absolutely perfect.
At its heart, this is a great second chance romance. The characters had a falling out as teenagers, but watching them work through old pain, find their way back to each other, and take their friendship to a new level was so satisfying.
I adored the quirky, small-town atmosphere, and I especially loved that Dr. Aria Johnson is outdoorsy and dedicated to her mycological research. It gave her character such a unique edge.
And the steam? Spot on, absolutely perfect.
August 8, 2025
It was so good to return to Foxboro. This time we got to read the story of Aria and Brody. They were friends in their childhood but after some mean words and hurtful behavior, the friendship died out. Until Aria returns...
This was another novella but again it feels like a whole novel. I really loved the flashbacks, it gives you a good insight into what has occurred in the past. I really enjoyed this story. I loved Brody and Aria And thein connection. I loved the already known side characters and it was a delight to see more of them. Great quick read!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️🌶️/5
This was another novella but again it feels like a whole novel. I really loved the flashbacks, it gives you a good insight into what has occurred in the past. I really enjoyed this story. I loved Brody and Aria And thein connection. I loved the already known side characters and it was a delight to see more of them. Great quick read!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️🌶️/5
August 13, 2025
There is nothing I love more than a Dani Galliaro novella.
The crossovers, old/new characters, spice? I can't get enough.
Aria and Brodie used to run the woods together, and all that changed when Brodie refused to acknowledge or protect Aria with his friends. Finally putting herself first, she cut off their budding relationship.
Years later and back in town, Aria and Brodie start running back in the same circles.
Brodie has grown up, and seeing how they come back together and how they work it out was so fun!
Another must read from Dani Galliaro!
The crossovers, old/new characters, spice? I can't get enough.
Aria and Brodie used to run the woods together, and all that changed when Brodie refused to acknowledge or protect Aria with his friends. Finally putting herself first, she cut off their budding relationship.
Years later and back in town, Aria and Brodie start running back in the same circles.
Brodie has grown up, and seeing how they come back together and how they work it out was so fun!
Another must read from Dani Galliaro!
September 3, 2025
I’m a sucker for a second-chance romance, and Burning Down the House by Dani Galliaro hit the spot. Aria returns home for mushroom research and literally falls right onto her high school ex, Brodie. Now a fire captain and town heartthrob, he’s determined to prove he’s not the guy she left behind.
It’s a quick novella, but the grovel, small-town vibes, and second-chance chemistry make it such a fun read. Perfect if you love a little heat mixed with hometown heart.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
It’s a quick novella, but the grovel, small-town vibes, and second-chance chemistry make it such a fun read. Perfect if you love a little heat mixed with hometown heart.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
September 4, 2025
This novella was so flipping cute 🥹. It was so genuinely sweet at times, but it also had me snorting with laughter 🤣 at others. As someone who holds grudges, I completely understood where Aria was coming from as this story begins. Heck, I was mad at Brodie when I found out their story, too! I loved his redemption arc. I loved seeing bits of my favorite characters from previous novellas and getting a glimpse into later part of their lives. I'll be sad to see Foxboro go, but I'm glad I can go back and revisit an eclipse, a tornado, and take a mushroom stroll.
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