Let It Burn

by Cassandra Winston

Evelyn

I’m not the same person I was two years ago. Lately life has lost its color and everything seems a bit grey.

The woman that I am today is just going through the motions – work, eat, sleep and repeat. I live in a museum of memories, desperately clinging to a past that is almost too painful to remember. I stayed when I should’ve left and now the person who has haunted my every dream since that day has returned. This time – for me.

I know I’m not strong enough to fight on my own, not when he’s taken everything that matters.

Parker

I left to forge my own path and to avoid becoming someone I couldn’t face in the mirror. Being a firefighter has been my dream and my life’s work.

I did my job and that should be the end of it. But there’s something about the look in her eyes that calls to me, seeking her out goes beyond my scope of duty but I’m helpless to resist the pull.

When her past comes back to haunt her, I make it my vow to protect her. I never thought that I would be returning back to the place that almost broke me but I can’t help but feel like I’d do anything for her.

363 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 1, 2026

About the author

Cassandra Winston is an Afro-Caribbean Romance author residing in the Midwest. She loves crafting romance stories of limitless love that transcend life's barriers.

When she isn't dreaming up your next book husband, she's testing out a new recipe on her family or thinking of a new hobby to satisfy her ADHD.

Reviews

[Jahda · Rating 3 out of 5]

Ehh MID …. There were things I liked and things I didn’t. Really had me hooked in the beginning I thought it would be like a thriller/ romance book. I understood the concept just felt anticlimactic that Charles wasn’t as scary as I thought. The romance worked I just wanted the chase and thrill to an increase as we read. I did enjoy reading Evelyn heal through grief. I liked the slow burn between Parker and Ev but they weren’t taking her being in hiding seriously enough for me 🤣 baby girl should have stayed out the public and in that guest house.

[cat · Rating 5 out of 5]

🔥 “That fire felt like the end, but it was our beginning. I’m not looking to be that version of myself anymore. I’m happy to 𝓵𝓮𝓽 𝓲𝓽 𝓫𝓾𝓻𝓷 if it means a lifetime of new beginnings with you. I’m choosing you.” 🔥

You know how fire consumes fast? Like one second everything is standing and the next it’s all smoke and heat and there’s no going back? Yeah. That is exactly what this book did to me.

Literally HOW is this a debut?!?! because excuse me???

From the very first chapter, I was completely locked in. Not casually interested. Not “I’ll read a few chapters before bed.” No. Fully consumed. This book grabbed me by the throat and refused to let go, and honestly? I let it 😭

The emotional weight in this story was insane. I felt everything. The grief, the fear, the helplessness, the hope, the healing—it ALL hit. And not in a dramatic for the sake of drama way, but in that painfully real way where you have to stop reading for a second because your chest actually hurts. 😭😭

Evelyn absolutely shattered me. Genuinely. She has been through so much, and watching her try to survive while carrying all of that pain was heartbreaking. 😭😭💔 She felt so real. like someone trying to keep going when life has taken almost everything from her. There were so many moments where I just wanted to climb into the book and fight people for her. 🥺🥺

And Parker… oh how I loved Parker.

This man had the biggest hero complex in the best and most devastating way possible. The kind of man who would set himself on fire if it meant keeping someone else warm. 🥺 He sacrifices, he protects, he loves quietly and deeply, and honestly???? I was so gone from the very beginning.
And the way he loved Evelyn???

He didn’t just rescue her from a house fire—he helped pull her out of an entire life built around fear and survival. He stood beside her while she slowly learned how to breathe again.

“I wanted all her mornings and her evenings. I wanted to be her safe place and her calm during the storms. As long as I was breathing and she would have me, I would never let her walk this Earth alone again.”

Your honor, I am unwell😩🤚🏼

Their relationship was such a beautiful slow burn because it never felt forced. It felt like two broken people finding each other exactly when they needed to. There was tension, comfort, vulnerability, and this constant emotional pull that made every small moment feel huge. (I will say that one thing I have a mild complaint about is the spice in this book. I feel like in more than one of the scenes it just seemed like different writing?? It didn't fit the story and I kind of wished it hadn't been included at all 🫩)
ANYWAY. CONTINUING.

Also i HAVE to talk about the villain pov because
WHAT IN THE EVIL CREEPERY. 🫣😭

That was such a smart choice AHHHH. Think stomach-dropping, heart-racing creepy. Seeing inside his mind made everything feel ten times more intense because you never knew what was coming next. It added this constant layer of dread that had me reading with my heart in my throat. My stomach was in knots because I truly had no idea what was about to happen. 😭😭

But one of the biggest takeaways??? I loved that the healing in this book wasn’t neat. It wasn’t pretty. It wasn’t fast. It wasn’t some magical “love fixes everything” situation. It was messy and frustrating and slow and real. Watching Evelyn piece herself back together little by little felt so much more powerful because of that. Recovery isn’t linear and this book understood that to the max.

I can't stress enough that for a debut, this was honestly incredible. Like… ridiculously good.🙂‍↕️🙂‍↕️

It balanced romance with heavier themes so well—grief, trauma, survival, resilience, learning how to live again when your past keeps trying to drag you backward.
It was heartfelt and gripping and emotionally exhausting in the best way. 😩💔🫶🏼 There were moments I felt completely wrecked and others where I felt that tiny, fragile hope start to bloom again. 🥹🥹

This isn’t just a romance. It’s a story about pain and healing and choosing to keep going. About finding someone who sees the worst parts of your life and stays anyway 🥺🥹..About still daring to believe something better can rise from the ashes. & sometimes you don’t rebuild what you were—you just learn how to Let It Burn… and become something entirely new.

Read this. Just… trust me. 😭🫶🏼

things to know about the book ↓

🔥 protective hero
🔥 firefighter MMC
🔥 romantic suspense
🔥 he falls first
🔥 slow burn
🔥 hurt x comfort
🔥 secret identity / in hiding
🔥 stalking (not by MMC)
🔥 strangers to lovers
🔥 dual POV

spice rating: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
swearing: yes

Thank you Luna Literary & Cassandra Winston for this arc in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

⸻⸻⸻
・❥・⁀➷ pre-read

did someone say firefighter romance? say less
here I come 🔥🔥

[alifetimeofliterature · Rating 5 out of 5]

➸ 5/5 stars

“I’m happy to let it burn if it means a lifetime of new beginnings with you. I’m choosing you.”

I never really thought two of my favorite genres could come together so perfectly and create something so magical. That being a thriller in combination with romance that also included such love and care from our main characters. This was suspenseful and emotional in the best possible way. Just thinking about this book makes me want to cry, and yes from tears of sadness but also from happiness that I got to read this.

“my scars were proof that I was alive and how hard I fought to survive.”

I appreciated how this book did not steer away from the important issues and topics. Things were expressed with the utmost care from our main characters and characters around them who only wanted what was best for them. It truly felt like I was watching a movie in my head while also being in the actual story because of how descriptive this was. The different POVs were a perfect mix for this story which only goes further to prove my point at how amazing this book is.

“On the job, we learn not to make promises. But if that time comes, know that I’m going to fight like hell to get back to you.”

The fact that this is just a debut book I have very high expectations on what's to come from Cassandra. I can’t wait to see what Cassandra will come up with next because of how amazing this book was alone.

“Every time I look into her eyes, I see the future, one I never planned for. I didn’t plan to fall in love, but then Evelyn came ripping through my life like a tidal wave, making it so easy.”

I somehow found Cassandra’s instagram a while before this release and I had been keeping up with this release since then. I would be completely shocked and honored to have received an early release copy of this book. I felt like doing 20 cartwheels around my room if I knew how honestly. Thank you with everything in my heart Cassandra for this eARC!!! Let this review be further motivation to keep going because you are an amazing writer. I will gladly wait for more books and even a physical copy of this book with a smile on my face.

Thank you Cassandra once again for my eARC!! Pub date: May 01, 2026.

Other quotes I found that I loved:

“When I look at you, I see a survivor, but I also see someone weighed down by remorse. You’re still here, Evelyn.”

“there wasn’t much I wasn’t willing to do to see her smile like that.”

[JaAsha · Rating 4 out of 5]

Let It Burn is a story rooted in grief, healing, and the kind of love that finds you when you’re barely holding yourself together.

Evelyn is navigating loss on multiple fronts—so much so that she’s existing more than she’s living. She felt like a shell of herself in the beginning, which made her journey all the more impactful. Just as she’s trying to survive the weight of everything she’s carrying, another tragedy strikes… and that’s where Parker steps in.

Parker, a New York firefighter who left his Southern roots behind to chase something bigger, was exactly the kind of MMC this story needed. Protective without being overbearing, steady in a way that felt grounding, and deeply intentional in how he showed up for Evelyn. When her past resurfaces, he doesn’t hesitate—he makes a vow to protect her, even if it means returning to the one place he swore he’d never go back to.

What stood out most to me was how this story explores:

* the impact of loss and lingering grief
* family secrets and the weight they carry
* healing after trauma
* the true definition of family
* and finding love when you don’t feel whole

For a debut, this was a strong showing. There’s emotional depth here, and I appreciated the way the story allowed space for both pain and healing.

[AussieBookAddict (Mel) · Rating 5 out of 5]

My Rating: ★★★★★

Let It Burn by Cassandra Winston is a contemporary romantic suspense that weaves together second-chance romance, emotional trauma, and a protective-hero dynamic into a story that feels both deeply raw and intensely gripping. Set against the high-pressure backdrop of firefighting and personal tragedy, the narrative leans into themes of grief, survival, and the kind of love that refuses to fade; even when everything else has.

Where this novel shines most clearly is in its emotional weight and immersive storytelling. Evelyn and Parker’s connection feels authentic and deeply layered, shaped by their shared past and the unresolved pain that lingers between them. The chemistry is not just romantic but emotional, with each interaction carrying a sense of urgency, vulnerability, and unspoken longing. Rather than rushing their reconnection, the story allows their bond to rebuild in a way that feels both earned and impactful.

The pacing is fast and addictive, making it incredibly difficult to put down. It carries a cinematic quality, with scenes unfolding so vividly that it feels as though the story is playing out on screen. The external threats combined with the internal struggles of the characters create a constant sense of tension, driving the narrative forward while keeping the reader emotionally invested. As a debut novel, the level of polish and control in the writing is especially impressive.

Because of this balance between emotional depth and high-stakes tension, the reading experience feels both consuming and satisfying. The darker elements are handled with care, adding intensity without overshadowing the core relationship. Instead, they serve to strengthen the emotional connection and highlight the resilience of the characters.

I would strongly recommend Let It Burn to readers who enjoy second-chance romance, protective hero energy, emotionally driven storylines, and romantic suspense with darker themes. Those who appreciate deeply immersive, almost cinematic reads with strong emotional payoff will likely find this especially compelling.

Overall, this is a powerful, addictive, and emotionally charged debut that delivers both heart and intensity; resulting in a story that lingers long after the final page.

A huge thank you to both Cassandra Winston and Luna Literary for the opportunity to read this as an ARC. I am leaving this honest review of my own accord.

[Kirsty · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am genuinely unwell after this book. Like… emotionally charred, gently placed back together, and then set on fire again just for fun. Let It Burn did not come to play, it came to consume.

Evelyn absolutely broke my heart from page one. She’s not just “sad,” she’s hollowed out, surviving instead of living, stuck in this grey fog of grief and trauma that you can feel pressing in on every word. The way she clings to memories like they’re the only oxygen left??? It hurt to read in the best way. You don’t just root for her, you ache for her to find even a flicker of herself again.

And then Parker walks in like a match to gasoline.

This man. THIS MAN. A firefighter who already carries his own scars but still chooses to run toward the flames?? The way he sees Evelyn, really sees her, even when she’s trying to disappear… I was gone. The protectiveness without being overbearing, the quiet intensity, the way he just decides she matters and doesn’t back down from it?? Sir, please.

Their connection is not soft or easy. It’s jagged. It’s complicated. It’s two people standing in the wreckage of their pasts trying to decide if they’re brave enough to build something in the ashes. Every interaction felt loaded, like one wrong move and everything could collapse… which obviously made it impossible to stop reading.

And when her past comes crashing back in?? I was STRESSED. Heart racing, stomach in knots, fully invested like I personally knew these people. The stakes felt so real and so heavy, and Parker stepping up the way he did?? I swear I fell a little bit in love right alongside her.

But what really got me was the healing. Not quick, not pretty, not linear. Just raw, messy, hard-won steps toward something brighter. Watching Evelyn slowly find color again while Parker stands beside her, steady as anything, was EVERYTHING.

This book is fire and smoke and scars and second chances. It’s about what survives after everything burns and whether you can still choose love when it would be easier to shut it out.

Parker and Evelyn?? They didn’t just wow me. They consumed me.

I’m not over it. I don’t think I want to be.

[Lo · Rating 5 out of 5]

The fact that this is a FREAKING DEBUT is so shocking to me. Winston handled every chapter with such a deeply impactful finesse that you don't find often - LET IT BURN isn't just a romance, it's what life looks like when you allow someone in to help rebuild what was lost.

Asking someone not to carry the load, but to help you hold up under its weight. The grief was handled with the care like it could shatter at any moment, support in solidarity was held up like a firm wall of unbreakable understanding.

Every second you could FEEL whatever the emotion laid out on the page was - grief, trauma, standards, guilt, companionship, fear, trust. All of it was tangible, all of it was palpable alongside the beating heart of this romantic thriller.

Evelyn wasn't just a girl, she was a broken mosaic of the darkest circumstances, not of her own creation. She was stitched together in memories, held together by sheer force of will. And under that all, she carried the kindest heart in contradiction to how she really should have seen the world after the way it had treated her. To survive what she did, to see what she saw, and still choose kindess...wow, I truly sobbed for her.

And Parker. He was just there - not absent in thoughts, not controlling the plot, not pushing for answers...just there. Supportive, steadying, understanding and easily one of the most mellow characters I've ever seen. Truly a MMC good in a crisis! He let her come to him, open up to him, unravel her layers, and for someone as complex and broken as Evelyn, that was exactly the type of person she needed. Someone that stands with you in the storm and feels everything with you - not judging, not putting words to silence, just with you in it.

Honestly, I'd read it again and beg to feel every heart-racing, thrilling, emotional moment of this from start to finish. Winston has won my heart over for the genre because honestly, I need to read everything they write from now on!

Thank you so much to Cassandra Winston and Luna Literary for the ARC!

[Bella · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Let It Burn by Cassandra Winston hit me right in the heart in the best way possible. This story is emotional, raw, and beautifully written in a way that feels so real it almost hurts.

Evelyn completely broke me. You can feel her grief and heaviness from the very beginning, like she is just existing instead of living. The way she clings to memories while trying to survive each day felt so honest and deeply human. I found myself rooting for her healing every step of the way, even when she felt stuck in the past.

Parker is everything you want in a hero. He is strong, protective, and grounded, but there is also a quiet depth to him that makes him feel real. His dedication as a firefighter and his instinct to protect Evelyn pulled me in instantly. The way he sees her, truly sees her, when she feels invisible to the world was one of my favorite parts of this story.

Their connection builds in such a natural and powerful way. It is not rushed or forced. It feels like two people finding each other when they need it most. There is this steady burn between them that grows into something intense and emotional, and I was completely invested in every moment.

The story balances romance with heavier themes so well. It explores trauma, healing, and what it means to move forward when your past refuses to let you go. There were moments that had my chest tight and others that gave me that sense of hope you crave after something heavy.

This book is about pain, resilience, and learning how to live again after everything falls apart. It is heartfelt, gripping, and full of emotion that stays with you.

If you love emotional romance with protective heroes, deep healing journeys, and a connection that feels real and earned, you need to pick this one up. I felt every page of this story and I am still thinking about Evelyn and Parker.

[Live2readbookluva · Rating 4 out of 5]

Let It Burn is the first book in the Oakland Ridge series. It's a small town, slow burn, romance with a side of suspense. This firefighter was the blackberry jam ( try it, it's deliciousness) to my peanut butter. It follows the MCs Parker and Evelyn. Parker is a protective, introspective, firefighter and Evelyn is a wounded warrior trapped in her grief. I personally related to her character and understood her battle to break away from her web of despair. Parker was a great support person to balance her energy in the story. He brought oxygen when the air felt polluted with toxins. Their relationship took some time to blossom and I appreciated the slow build. 

This story was angsty, emotionally compelling, and purposefully intentional in it's healing journey. I was entertained, engaged, and invested in these characters and their development the entire time. This book takes you through a complicated journey with plenty of yearning, self discovery, and internal repair.  As I've gotten older, I find myself being drawn to emotionally intense romances, more and more these days. I connect with the energy and grow with the characters. This story balances romance, angst, with heavier themes including grief and trauma. The author did a great job with protecting and growing the characters as they worked through obstacles. You can't help but champion their perseverance.

If you are seeking an emotional, slow burn, suspenseful romance , this will be worth the tears. 


✨Themes & Tropes :✨ 

🧡 Romantic Suspense 
❤️ Small Town 
💛He Falls First
🧡 Firefighter MMC 
❤️ Secret Identity 
💛One Bed
🧡Slow Burn 
❤️Hurt/ Comfort 
💛Found Family 

Features sensitive themes, check triggers ⚠️

Overall, loved this read. ❤️

[Merriann Wright · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review of Advance Copy Received from the Author

Let It Burn is a stunning debut by Cassandra Winston that hits every single emotional note. If you’re a fan of the "protective hero" trope mixed with deep, gritty emotional stakes, this first installment of the Oakland Ridge series is a mandatory addition to your TBR.

The Story:
Parker is the quintessential firefighter hero-protective, brave, and driven by a hero complex that makes him impossible not to fall for. When he meets Evelyn under unfortunate circumstances, he doesn't just offer her a hand; he offers her his entire world. Evelyn is someone you will root for from page one-she is drowning in grief and trauma, but as her past rears its ugly head, she evolves into a formidable force that refuses to be broken.

The Drama:
The stakes are elevated when Parker retreats to his small hometown to hide Evelyn away. However, safety comes at a price: the involvement of Parker's wealthy family and estranged father. The tension between the family drama and the looming threat of Evelyn's past creates a gripping, high-stakes atmosphere.

Why This Book Hits Different:

The Slow Burn: The romantic tension is a masterclass in pacing, building naturally from their very first encounter.

The Depth: It doesn't shy away from heavy themes like obsession and trauma, handling them with raw honesty.

The "Ugly Cry": Keep the tissues nearby; this emotional roller-coaster will put your heart through the wringer.

This is a powerful start to a new series. Cassandra Winston has delivered a story about mutual healing what it means to truly protect the person you love, no matter the cost.

[Vania]

Thank you Cassandra Winston and Luna Literary for the early copy.

DNF @ 29%

I tried, I swear. I really wanted to like this book, but I couldn't finish it. The premise is sooo good and right up my alley, but the writing didn't do it for me. There were a few things, however, that I couldn't look past while reading. The first was Evelyn being rescued from a fire (having to be woken up from a nightmare) and then waking up in the hospital and having her cell phone there with her. This gets explained later on, but it felt weird nonetheless. The second thing was Parker asking for time off and driving all the way to his hometown to stay with his family in order to hide Evelyn. Sure, he has a hero complex but he doesn't get along with his father and hasn't been back in 10 years, and suddenly he's taking time off work and going there for a stranger? I tried suspending disbelief but it kept bothering me. And the third thing, which is when I stopped reading, was when we get to a flashback of Charles killing someone and he "brought the knife down on his wrist, severing his hand from his arm." Maybe I've listened to too much true crime, but that didn't feel plausible at all.

I don't know how the rest of the story evolves, but it felt like an emotional connection was building up slowly, so it's possible the payoff will be worth it. It's clear there's an attraction between Parker and Evelyn, and that they are choosing to be there for each other. If that's something that you might enjoy, along with a stalker/arsonist/killer on the loose thrown in the mix, there's a good chance you'll enjoy Let It Burn.

[Jaelene · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 Stars - Rounded to 5!
2.5 Spice Level

This book was absolute chaos, but in the best possible way. From the very beginning, Cassandra’s writing pulled me in completely and refused to let go. Every chapter kept building this tension that had me flying through the pages because I needed to know what was going to happen next.

One of my favorite things about this was the multiple POVs. Getting both Evelyn and Parker’s perspectives already added so much depth, but having chapters from the person hunting them? And the secrets that were slowly being exposed during them?! That was such an incredible choice!!! It added this extra layer of unease and intensity that made the entire story feel so immersive and high stakes.

Evelyn’s journey hit hard. Watching someone survive so much, struggle through the weight of it all, and still fight toward healing and strength was incredibly powerful. And Parker? The level of care and thoughtfulness he showed throughout the book was everything. He never overshadowed her strength, he supported it, and I loved that dynamic between them. I mean seriously, where is the Green Flag Guy for Parker?!

The entire story felt tense, emotional, and consuming in a way that made it impossible to put down. Literally finished the whole book in 24 hours and I need more.

Thank you so much to Cassandra and Team Luna for allowing me to grab a sneak peek at this amazing debut novel. I cannot wait to read more of your work!

[Abbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Holy shit. This book had me hooked from page 1! There are some very heavy scenes, definetly check your triggers if you have any! This book was written in point of view of all three main characters.

Evelyns life had been pretty standard up until two years ago when someone she thought of like a brother, kidnapped her and her sister and tortured them for hours. Her sister Celeste, died from his attack. Evelyn wasnt that lucky. She remembers every minute from the traumatic event. She thought he would leave her alone when he got away with his crimes. Unfortunately she is not that lucky. She has nowhere to go and noone to run to when he finds her again.

Parker left his family and his inheritance so he could have the life he wanted without his fathers input or interference. Hes trained to be a firefighter and loves his life. One night he is called out to a fire and rescues Evelyn (Ev). He goes to see her at the hospital and gives her his card, not expecting to hear from her. When he does, he knows he will do anything within his power to keep her safe.

Charles is a complete and utter psychopath. He enjoys seeing people in pain and causing their pain. He thought he could stop after Celeste but he was lying to himself. Now he knows the only way to quench his thirst is to find Evelyn and finish what he started.

This book was gifted as an ARC and i am leaving an honest review. I will definetly be reading more books from Cassandra. This was my first read from her.

[Jennifer Amaral · Rating 5 out of 5]

**Vibes first because this one?? HEAVY, HEALING, and FULL OF FIRE 👀🔥🖤**

• emotional trauma & healing
• protective firefighter 🚒
• second chance / past returning
• “I’ll keep you safe” energy
• slow rebuild of strength

Yeah… this one HIT.

Let It Burn isn’t just romance—it’s pain, memory, and trying to rebuild when everything feels broken 👀

She’s not okay.
She’s surviving, not living.
And you can *feel* that heaviness in every moment 🖤

Then he steps in.

Parker isn’t loud about it—he just shows up. Steady, protective, and completely drawn to her in a way that feels deeper than just attraction 🔥

And the tension??
Not just romantic—it’s emotional. It’s fear, vulnerability, and that pull toward someone when you’re not sure you’re ready to trust again 👀

But what really got me??
The past coming back.

That constant pressure, that feeling that she can’t escape it—and the way everything builds from there?? Yeah… I was locked in.

✨ This is a 5⭐ because:
• the emotional depth is strong and real
• the protective dynamic hits perfectly
• the healing journey feels meaningful
• it keeps you invested from start to finish

✨ If you love:
• emotional romance 🖤
• protective heroes
• trauma + healing arcs
• second chance / past returns

This one is intense, heartfelt, and completely consuming 👀🔥

[Monica · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was lucky enough to receive an ARC in exchange for a honest review.

My overall rating is a 3.75 ⭐️. This story managed to be raw when addressing serious subjects but also high stakes when shifting to the POV of our antagonist. You could tell Evelyn’s journey through grief and healing was rooted in deep care from the author. I found her falling back into dark spaces the most realistic because healing isn’t linear. Parker was indeed the perfect. Almost too perfect, lol. Besides our antagonist closing in on our MCs, I was there was a little be of conflict between the MCs to just give us more examples of them working through their own issues to choose each other. The romance was easy going and comfy but lacked some depth that was present in the MCs as individuals.

Now for antagonist, Charles. I felt like I was read two books at the same time lol which I loveeed. It gave a realistic feeling of “waiting for the other shoe to drop” We’re just happily reading about MCs and boom here comes a POV from Charles that brings you crashing back to the conflict and tension that his character is causing Evelyn. It would’ve have been nice to see the MCs focus more on hiding (which was original intention). It seemed like other than Evelyn’s inner thoughts, their actions seemed to forget that she was supposed to be laying low? They were just out and about like he wasn’t deranged 💀

Anyway, I would still recommend this book to my friends! It is a deeply touching story of grief, guilt, and healing. A story of choosing imperfect, in progress self.

[Manda Jean · Rating 5 out of 5]

“You’re safe with me. I’ll do the heavy lifting so that you don’t have to. Take a chance on me.”

I was ready to add all Cassandra’s backlist to my TBR when I realized this is a DEBUT!! And what an amazing Debut it is I was on the edge invested in this story and having not only Evelyn and Parker’s POV but also Charles just added to that intensity of what she is up against. From page one the pacing and story telling had me adjusting my seating because who needs comfort when I need to get as close as possible to make sure I didn’t miss anything like I am watching a movie. Absolutely amazing debut I cannot wait for more I loved the twins and Danny had me stressing not gonna lie.

🎼 Song Vibe - Let It Burn by Jazmine Sullivan
💬POV- Multiple
💞Relationship - MF
🌶️Spice- Yes Slow Burn

~~What to Expect~
🔥Small Town
🔥Revenge
🔥One Bed
🔥Person in Peril
🔥Found Family
🔥Hidden Identity
🔥Hurt/Comfort
🔥Strangers to Lovers
🔥Mutual Healing
🔥Stormcloud FMC X Cinnamon Roll Firefighter MMC

~~Quotes~~
🧡There was no way I could be just friends with him, when every time he walked into the room, I wanted to be at his side. Parker was an addiction that I couldn’t kick.
🧡The world had been unkind to her and yet she still cared for others even when they treated her unfairly. I couldn’t take her pain away but I could carry some of it.
🧡On the job, we learn not to make promises. But if that time comes know that I’m going to fight like hell to get back to you.

[Chante (Chan.ReadsXO) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Let It Burn is the debut novel from Cassandra Winston, and I absolutely loved it.

This small-town romance gives you a Southern gentleman MMC paired with a strong but deeply broken FMC and their dynamic just pulls you in from the start.

You’ve got this firefighter who is tall, dark, handsome… all man. And then there’s Evelyn, who’s been living in fear, running from her past, until she stumbles into his life and changes everything for both of them. But nothing about their story is easy, and there’s a dark, unexpected twist that hits hard.

This book grabs you right from the beginning, check the trigger warnings because it starts strong. I loved that we got dual POV, but also the villain’s POV, which added so much depth and intensity in a way I didn’t even realize I needed.

I don’t want to give too much away because this is one of those stories you should go into blind. Just know… it will have you feeling everything. By the end, I was crying right along with this family.

It even brought back pieces of my own upbringing the Southern setting, the sense of family it just felt like home in the best way.

This is so much more than just a firefighter romance. Trust me, you need to read it.

[Jessica Oneal · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you Luna Literacy and Cassandra Winston for giving me the opportunity to read this ARC and provide my honest feedback.

4.25 stars. This caught me right away! The book jumps right into the drama and suspense. If you have to be in a fire at least let the fireman be hot, right?? Evelyn lucked up with Parker. He is handsome and kind with a hero-complex. Just what her wounded heart needed. She truly puts his need to be a hero to the test. Parker's decision to help Evelyn takes them on a ride of healing, love and danger.

This was one slow burn that I didn't mind because the MCs provided enough romantic tension and build-up to keep me smiling. And the thrilling elements of this romantic suspense novel dangled the carrot enough to keep you guessing and provided a couple twists. I enjoyed the multiple POVs and the character development was satisfying. There was one person that I would have seen more resolution for, but overall it wrapped up well. This was a great debut novel for Cassandra Winston. I thoroughly enjoyed this story. It would be a great bridge for a romance reader that wants to get into thrillers.

[Courtney N Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

OMGGGG !!! first off, this is my first arc & I don’t take that for granted. So THANK you to Cassandra && Luna Literacy for trusting me in this process!!!

Now let’s get to the fun part:

4.25 Stars ⭐️ && 🌶️ low spice but good spice all the same.

tropes:

he saves her
He falls first
he comes in his pants
southern gentleman
NYFD Firefighter Captain
black MMC / Jamaican MMF
mmf extreme trauma survivor

this story has multiple villains and this a thriller romance book.

I loveddd evie and Parker. I wish we got to see a bit more of their relationship but I could see and understand the how/ why of their relationship.

I loved seeing the characters and how they developed over the book and seeing real life issues .

I don’t want to spoil the book in any way but I loved that evie got the justice she deserved.

For debut author this was fantastic and as I read a lot of romance books this was a nice change of pace as it was more thriller than romance.

I could definitely see a little series coming out of this book as it had some great characters and I’d love to see their stories.

[Monique · Rating 4 out of 5]

(3.5⭐️) I had the pleasure of reading an ARC of this story & I love when you read a debut that doesn’t feel like a debut. This was a really well written story about resilience, healing, and the push and pull between family expectations and chasing your own dreams.

From day one, Parker wanted to protect Evelyn, and after losing everything, she didn’t really have a choice but to trust him. Their relationship is a true slow burn, and I liked watching Evelyn not only learn to trust Parker, but slowly find her way back to trusting herself.

Charles was a genuinely scary villain. There’s this constant tension around him, never quite knowing what he’s thinking or what he’ll do next, and the things he put Evelyn through honestly broke my heart. By the time we hit the climax, I was holding my breath trying to see how it would all unfold.

Overall, this was a strong debut that balanced emotional depth with suspense really well. It definitely has me interested in picking up more from this author.

[Katherine · Rating 3 out of 5]

ARC Review

Rating: 3.5 stars

Book 1 in the new Oakland Ridge Series. This Small Town romance centers around a smoking hot Firefighter and the woman he rescues from more than just a house fire.

I was so inspired by the quiet strength from our FMC. Right from the jump she grabbed my attention and I just had to keep reading to see where our story would take her.

I did find myself feeling a little disjointed from the story when it would go back and forth between two kinds of writing styles. It felt (to me) that it was written by two different people. I Just wanted it to flow more smoothly between the main story-line and the spice giving it two separate vibes.

The strong relationships that are built and tested throughout this story is beautiful. If a small town, strangers to lovers, found family, revenge, he falls first, slow burn romance is your cup of tea. Then this is a book for you!

Check content warnings before starting any new book.

And as always, happy reading!!!

[KindledbyKisses · Rating 5 out of 5]

✨ ARC Review ✨
Let It Burn — Cassandra Winston

5 STARS ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Cassandra Winston came through with a stellar debut. This slow burn romance? Absolute perfection. The pacing felt so natural; nothing rushed, nothing dragged; just a beautifully realistic love story unfolding exactly how it should.

The character development was EVERYTHING. You don’t just read about these characters—you feel them. Their growth, their struggles, their emotions… all so raw and authentic. Cassandra’s writing has this incredible way of pulling you into every moment, especially when it comes to mental health and those deeply vulnerable scenes. I swear, it felt like I was living right alongside them.

And listen… I am TEAM EVELYN and TEAM PARKER all the way. No debate. No discussion.
Also… f*ck Charles forever, respectfully 😌

If this is what Cassandra Winston is doing with her debut, I’m already seated for whatever comes next.

#KindledByKisses #ARCReview #LetItBurn #BookReview #SlowBurnRomance #Bookstagrammer

[Courtney · Rating 4 out of 5]

A suspenseful romance that completely hooked me—I needed to know how it would all end. Let It Burn is Cassandra Winston’s debut, and I will absolutely be picking up anything she writes next!

What made this book stand out was the unique structure. Instead of a dual POV, it’s told through three different perspectives, which added so much depth and kept things interesting the entire time.

If you’re a fan of suspenseful romance—especially with the emotional intensity and edge you get from authors like Catherine Cowles—you’ll definitely want to check this one out.

Parker was content forging his own path, never questioning the life he was living… until Evelyn came into it. Through her, he realizes there’s more out there—more to want, more to feel. I really loved Evelyn’s journey too—watching her learn to trust Parker, but more importantly, learning to trust herself.

If you’re looking for a suspenseful, emotional romance that keeps you on your toes until the very last page, this is one I highly recommend.

[Virginia Easthome · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Stunning debut!

Romantic suspense at its best - um, hello, THIRD POV THAT I DIDN'T SEE COMING. Right, so firefighter Parker and graphic designer Evelyn are brilliant - they're overcoming family histories and expectations, they're surviving, they're processing grief - and on top of all that, they are surviving a stalker/serial killer who took Ev's sister's life, and is coming after her. No spoilers, but I loved all the romantic elements as well - road tripping, one bed at the motel, slowwwww burn, a ballroom dance *moment*, cooking and caretaking (hello, Jamaican dishes + southern food), and a little social crit as well (mmc is a scion of a wealthy southern oil family + fmc is the first gen daughter of a Jamaican immigrant mother), and CW weaves all of these elements together beautifully.

The suspense arc keeps you reading - you will fly through this one and not even realize you're at the end! And you won't want to leave this small town - fortunately, CW is writing book 2 (heck yes!)

[Miranda Hawkins · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book. Like... loved loved it.

The FMC’s journey hit hard in the best way. She survived what should have broken her and found something she never saw coming, and that alone made this story unforgettable. The way she kept going, not perfectly, not magically healed, but in a way that felt real and raw and powerful... I was rooting for her the entire time.

And then there’s the unexpected someone who shows up when she least expects it. She wasn’t looking, wasn’t waiting and somehow that made it even better. The connection felt natural and earned, not forced and I was fully invested.

What really stood out to me was how you can feel pieces of the author’s truth woven into the story It adds so much depth and emotion, and you can tell this book comes from a real place. It made everything hit deeper.

This book pulled me in, kept me there and left me thinking about it after I finished. I love love love this book.

[Ketyna · Rating 5 out of 5]

🔥Black Romance
🔥Found Family
🔥Small Town
🔥Strangers to Lovers
🔥Romantic Suspense

All my Favorite Tropes, and they were used beautifully. I was stuck from the first page, I couldn't put my Kindle down. KO

Adulting was a struggle as life was crumbling around Evelyn, my heart hurt for her. I related to her.  She was experiencing loss on all the levels. 

Parker is swoon worthy, Southern gentlemen, Fire captain gives back to the community type of dude. He was protective of her. Evelyn had to learn to trust him and herself. 


This story was beautifully written, it has  emotional depth without being overwhelming, the healing process was handled with care. The connection between Parker and Evelyn I connected with. I was rooting for them. 

The suspense kept me engaged. Our villain had me all in and wanting to know what's next. 
I don't want to spoil it. So jump in and read it. 

Thank you to Cassandra Winston for the early copy of her debut novel, it was a great read.

⭐⭐⭐⭐.5

[Tanesha Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Omg what a beautifully done debut!! I ate this up! Thank you so much to Cassandra for the e-ARC - I absolutely loved it!

I’m obsessed with the idea of a thriller and a romance! Cassandra integrated them together beautifully - where the romance tension between the characters bloomed at the same time as the suspenseful tension of the Evelyn’s past catching up to her! Phew, despite this book being a quick read it was able to hit in so many topics: family dynamics and dysfunction, stalker/suspense, a confident and steady MMC, running from the past, etc. Evelyn and Parker deserve literally the world. Parker is literally on the book boyfriend list! This book scratched an itch that I didn’t know I had! I really loved this so much. There’s so much emotional depth and vulnerability - that makes a romance feel like real life. Honestly the firefighter protective hero should sell you on this read!

I cannot wait to read what Cassandra writes next!

[paulina✨ · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25

The perfect balance of romance and suspense. You get the emotional depth of both ends - fear and love.
You see how Parker and Evelyn grow close, finding a need to care for the other. Parker is great at wanting to protect Evelyn, encourage her to keep living, while still understanding she has a past full of trauma he will never understand. He gives her the space to trust, to open up, and to feel safe again.
Evelyn is so young but has gone through so much. Seeing how she grew, to find her happiness again was so emotional for both character and reader. I loved seeing how she slowly opened herself up to her new environment, as hesitant as she was.

The suspense parts had me scared!!! The Charles POV chapters were so eery (that first chapter was a jumpscare!!). He was written so well, he exuded so much hate and vileness, you immediately got what type of person he was. Can't say much without spoiling but my god he had me so scared for Evelyn.


Thank you so much Luna Literary for the ARC!

[Symone · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75 ⭐️ Whew, this book was heavier than I expected. After everything Evelyn went through, the fact that she was still standing? She was so much stronger than she gave herself credit for.

And Parker came in like the hero he was, giving her the protection she needed. I thought it was sweet that he put his own family issues aside to make sure she was okay.

I loved the multi-POV. Getting inside Charles’s head, the unhinged man who took so much from her and still was not satisfied, was wild. I always like getting a bit of backstory on the villain and seeing what prompted such erratic behavior. Dude just wasn't right in the head.🤦🏾‍♀️

This story had a bit of everything: loss & grief, choosing yourself over expectations, finding love in the middle of chaos, and healing while starting over. For a debut, this was really good. I enjoyed it.

[Tasha Thrall · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m utterly speechless—this book has truly captured my heart! From the very first page, I was hooked and couldn’t put it down. I felt every ounce of pain and fear, as well as the love shared among the characters. Wow, Cassandra, I can’t wait to dive into the rest of your works because this story has burned itself into my soul.

It all begins with a Trigger Warning! My friends, please take the time to read the warnings, or you can be adventurous like me and jump in without knowing what to expect.

We meet a terrified woman trapped in a nightmare, compounded by smoke and heat. Parker, the firefighter, witnesses her distress and heroically saves her from her burning home.

Evelyn awakens in the hospital only to discover that her house has been reduced to ashes. She realizes with a chilling certainty that she is far from safe...