What do you think?
Rate this book
Redwood Bay Fire #4
Up In Smoke
Love never quits
RICO
I’ve always had a soft spot for my best friend’s younger brother, the one who went off to Hollywood and became a star, only to crash back down to earth with nobody to save him. Years later, my buddy isn’t around when Jesse hits rock bottom…but I am. My plan is pretty extreme, though. Is it crazy to think I can be the one to finally rescue him this time? Or as usual, will it all go up in smoke before I can stop it?
JESSE
Everyone thought I had it made at ten years old. But the second my TV show finished, Hollywood stopped calling, and I spent the next two decades in and out of trouble. The last person I expect to pick me up and put me back on my feet is my life-long crush, firefighter Lieutenant Rico Flores.
But he’s the first person in forever to stop and see me for who I am now, not the character I was all those years ago or the failure I've become. Even when I’m awful, he doesn’t give up on me. It’s no surprise that I’m swapping childhood infatuation for real love. But when he suggests getting married so his insurance can send me back to rehab, are we going too far? This is my last chance at recovery, I'm sure. I just don't know if my heart will survive being his husband when I know he’ll never see me as anything other than a problem, a charity case, his best friend’s messed up little brother.
Right?
Up In Smoke is a slow burn, standalone MM romance. It’s the fourth book in the found family Redwood Bay Fire series. Join the members of the One-Thirteen house as the heat turns up and they find true love! This book features a firefighter who’s not afraid of flames but can never ask for what he wants, an actor-turned-stripper with a secret heart of gold, a secret wedding that becomes all too real, a long road to recovery, four legged friends who also never quit, and a guaranteed HEA with absolutely no cliffhanger.
Content This book deals with themes of suicidal thoughts and a near attempt, substance abuse, relapse, recovery and sobriety.
RICO
I’ve always had a soft spot for my best friend’s younger brother, the one who went off to Hollywood and became a star, only to crash back down to earth with nobody to save him. Years later, my buddy isn’t around when Jesse hits rock bottom…but I am. My plan is pretty extreme, though. Is it crazy to think I can be the one to finally rescue him this time? Or as usual, will it all go up in smoke before I can stop it?
JESSE
Everyone thought I had it made at ten years old. But the second my TV show finished, Hollywood stopped calling, and I spent the next two decades in and out of trouble. The last person I expect to pick me up and put me back on my feet is my life-long crush, firefighter Lieutenant Rico Flores.
But he’s the first person in forever to stop and see me for who I am now, not the character I was all those years ago or the failure I've become. Even when I’m awful, he doesn’t give up on me. It’s no surprise that I’m swapping childhood infatuation for real love. But when he suggests getting married so his insurance can send me back to rehab, are we going too far? This is my last chance at recovery, I'm sure. I just don't know if my heart will survive being his husband when I know he’ll never see me as anything other than a problem, a charity case, his best friend’s messed up little brother.
Right?
Up In Smoke is a slow burn, standalone MM romance. It’s the fourth book in the found family Redwood Bay Fire series. Join the members of the One-Thirteen house as the heat turns up and they find true love! This book features a firefighter who’s not afraid of flames but can never ask for what he wants, an actor-turned-stripper with a secret heart of gold, a secret wedding that becomes all too real, a long road to recovery, four legged friends who also never quit, and a guaranteed HEA with absolutely no cliffhanger.
Content This book deals with themes of suicidal thoughts and a near attempt, substance abuse, relapse, recovery and sobriety.
380 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 12, 2025
20 people are currently reading
40 people want to read
About the author
H.J. Welch
41 books290 followersHJ Welch is a British author of contemporary American MM small town series and books in multi authored shared universes, including the international number one bestselling Homecoming Hearts. She lives just outside of London with her husband and three balls of fluff that occasionally pretend to be cats.
She began writing at an early age, later honing her craft online in the world of fanfiction on sites like Wattpad. Fifteen years and over half a million words later, she sought out original MM novels to read. By the end of 2016 she had written her first book of her own, and in 2017 she achieved her lifelong dream of becoming a full-time author.
When she’s not writing she’s usually dancing, singing, filming music videos, taking long walks, working on jigsaw puzzles, drinking prosecco, or talking about Eurovision.
She also writes contemporary British MM fairy tale adaptation as Helen Juliet, including bestsellers Thorn in His Side, A Right Royal Affair, and Three.
She began writing at an early age, later honing her craft online in the world of fanfiction on sites like Wattpad. Fifteen years and over half a million words later, she sought out original MM novels to read. By the end of 2016 she had written her first book of her own, and in 2017 she achieved her lifelong dream of becoming a full-time author.
When she’s not writing she’s usually dancing, singing, filming music videos, taking long walks, working on jigsaw puzzles, drinking prosecco, or talking about Eurovision.
She also writes contemporary British MM fairy tale adaptation as Helen Juliet, including bestsellers Thorn in His Side, A Right Royal Affair, and Three.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
December 26, 2025
Thank you to GRR for providing me with an eARC of this title in exchange for a review.
God I love me a marriage of convenience for insurance purposes! Like as much as I hate that we exist in a world where that storyline makes sense because how ridiculous is that, the concept is elite. Lieutenant Rico Flores gets a late night call from his best friend, worried that the best friend's brother might have accidentally or intentionally taken his life, and begs Rico to check on him. The brother is a washed up former child star who's had alcohol and bad choices rob him of most if not all of his adult life, and is in a bad way. Rico brings him home, and comes up with a harebrained scheme to marry him so that through Rico's insurance, Jesse can try rehab again and have a better support system once he comes out of it, in the hopes that he can succeed in turning his life around. All it'll take is a lot of willpower, even more therapy, and a little lying to the insurance company.
There are elements of the story that I would change if I could.
But with all of that said, none of it took much away from my enjoyment of the book. I've been loving this series and this was the second best installment for me since the first book. I'm excited for where the series goes next because there are easily another three books you can pull out of this universe in Captain Valentine, in Sawyer/Anton, and in Dray, and that's not even including any additional characters that we might meet along the way, so I'm happy to get to spend a little more time with this crew.
God I love me a marriage of convenience for insurance purposes! Like as much as I hate that we exist in a world where that storyline makes sense because how ridiculous is that, the concept is elite. Lieutenant Rico Flores gets a late night call from his best friend, worried that the best friend's brother might have accidentally or intentionally taken his life, and begs Rico to check on him. The brother is a washed up former child star who's had alcohol and bad choices rob him of most if not all of his adult life, and is in a bad way. Rico brings him home, and comes up with a harebrained scheme to marry him so that through Rico's insurance, Jesse can try rehab again and have a better support system once he comes out of it, in the hopes that he can succeed in turning his life around. All it'll take is a lot of willpower, even more therapy, and a little lying to the insurance company.
There are elements of the story that I would change if I could.
But with all of that said, none of it took much away from my enjoyment of the book. I've been loving this series and this was the second best installment for me since the first book. I'm excited for where the series goes next because there are easily another three books you can pull out of this universe in Captain Valentine, in Sawyer/Anton, and in Dray, and that's not even including any additional characters that we might meet along the way, so I'm happy to get to spend a little more time with this crew.
December 19, 2025
love this crew
This was so good. The author did an amazing job with Jesse in this book. This was a journey to love and it was so beautiful to watch. It was such a joy watching both MCs heal and find love with each other. And of course the team are there to help them thru.
The writing is great, the smexy is fire and I wonder who will be captains person
In the know:
No cheating/sharing
Dual pov
Diversity
Relation before
This was so good. The author did an amazing job with Jesse in this book. This was a journey to love and it was so beautiful to watch. It was such a joy watching both MCs heal and find love with each other. And of course the team are there to help them thru.
The writing is great, the smexy is fire and I wonder who will be captains person
In the know:
No cheating/sharing
Dual pov
Diversity
Relation before
December 25, 2025
A good story to enjoy for the series, which can be read as a standalone or in order. I loved the ending of this as they rebuild their lives after the fire. I’m wondering who will get his romance next in the series. My Full Blog Review Link
December 14, 2025
I was gifted my copy of this book.
I will start by saying this: I wanted to give this book so many MORE than 5 stars, but most review sites will only let you do 5. I gave the previous 3 books 5 stars but this book is way WAY above those! So, while this is tagged as a 5 star read, it really should have more!
This book deals with some difficult subjects from both guys: lost of a sibling as a child, distancing parents, drug/alcohol abuse; and recovery from these, attempted suicide and suicidal thoughts.
All topics are dealt with sensitively, and with research. Some things are on page, and you need to be mindful of that, if you have triggers. But I honestly think we needed to get into Jesse's mind at his lowest point, so we could really appreciate how far he comes and cheer him on!!
I loved that Rico thinks outside the box to be able to help Jesse. Loved that once they both admit they are emotionally in for real, it takes time for the physical stuff to come. I loved that, I really did. So I'm gonna say this is probably one of Ms Welch's less steamy books, but it's not really about that, it's more about the emotional connection for these two.
And that emotion made me cry at times, it really did. Jesse at his worst, and his best. Such extremes of emotion that really pushed me. When he was tempted, and how he overcame the threat. How Rico felt when he finally let Jesse in. How both men felt they didn't deserve the other for a long time.
I loved that Jesse was adamant he be called Jay in the beginning, but after he comes home, he's just Jesse to Rico and that was that! Made me chuckle, did that fact.
Loved that we get to catch up with the previous couples, and the whole of the One Thirteen crew, and I had to chuckle a bit at the way Jesse met them all at once! Not why he met them then, just the way they all crowded him and Rico to say hello.
Loved the found family at the club Jesse finds himself dancing at! Those guys and gals are amazing!
It's also a longer book than Ms Welch usually writes, but you do need those extra pages to fully appreciate the awesomeness that this book is!
I'm struggling with this review, because I want to rant and rave and go on and on and ONNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNN about it, but a coherent review that does not make.
So!
To sum up, in case you didn't get it in the beginning, I bloody LOVED this book, and I loved it so much that I filed it on my Masterpiece shelf. Because I do think that this is quite possibly Ms Welch's best book so far!! (under either author name!!)
Well done, Ms Welch, so very VERY well done!
5 full and so very shiny stars
*same worded review will appear elsewhere
I will start by saying this: I wanted to give this book so many MORE than 5 stars, but most review sites will only let you do 5. I gave the previous 3 books 5 stars but this book is way WAY above those! So, while this is tagged as a 5 star read, it really should have more!
This book deals with some difficult subjects from both guys: lost of a sibling as a child, distancing parents, drug/alcohol abuse; and recovery from these, attempted suicide and suicidal thoughts.
All topics are dealt with sensitively, and with research. Some things are on page, and you need to be mindful of that, if you have triggers. But I honestly think we needed to get into Jesse's mind at his lowest point, so we could really appreciate how far he comes and cheer him on!!
I loved that Rico thinks outside the box to be able to help Jesse. Loved that once they both admit they are emotionally in for real, it takes time for the physical stuff to come. I loved that, I really did. So I'm gonna say this is probably one of Ms Welch's less steamy books, but it's not really about that, it's more about the emotional connection for these two.
And that emotion made me cry at times, it really did. Jesse at his worst, and his best. Such extremes of emotion that really pushed me. When he was tempted, and how he overcame the threat. How Rico felt when he finally let Jesse in. How both men felt they didn't deserve the other for a long time.
I loved that Jesse was adamant he be called Jay in the beginning, but after he comes home, he's just Jesse to Rico and that was that! Made me chuckle, did that fact.
Loved that we get to catch up with the previous couples, and the whole of the One Thirteen crew, and I had to chuckle a bit at the way Jesse met them all at once! Not why he met them then, just the way they all crowded him and Rico to say hello.
Loved the found family at the club Jesse finds himself dancing at! Those guys and gals are amazing!
It's also a longer book than Ms Welch usually writes, but you do need those extra pages to fully appreciate the awesomeness that this book is!
I'm struggling with this review, because I want to rant and rave and go on and on and ONNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNN about it, but a coherent review that does not make.
So!
To sum up, in case you didn't get it in the beginning, I bloody LOVED this book, and I loved it so much that I filed it on my Masterpiece shelf. Because I do think that this is quite possibly Ms Welch's best book so far!! (under either author name!!)
Well done, Ms Welch, so very VERY well done!
5 full and so very shiny stars
*same worded review will appear elsewhere
December 29, 2025
The only way is up for Jesse
The One Thirteen's stoic Lieutenant gets his HEA and it's hard-won. Rico has appeared in the first three books but has always felt a bit stand-offish to me, and now we get to see why he holds himself apart from the rest of his crew. Jesse was mentioned by Rico in the previous book so it wasn't a shock that he was destined for Rico.
Jesse really has reached the end of his line at the start of the story and his brother's best friend, Rico, is his knight in shining armour, even when Jesse isn't sure he wants to be saved. I felt so bad for all that Jesse had endured, and HJ wrote sensitively about the familial, social and economic problems people encounter that make them addicts and keep them addicted too.
Rico and Jesse were great characters, but the characters at the One-Thirteen, Mrs. Bloom and Ms. Margot Fonteyn, Klaus, Katerina, and Trixie and all her boys were also stars too. I loved the found family at the firehouse in each book but, this time, we also get Trixie's found family that welcomes in all the aforementioned characters too.
This is a long book, and a sweet love story, but I felt some things were glossed over and wanted more.
Captain Valentine is next and I can't wait to read his story. I also need Anton and Sawyer's love story, because I'm convinced that's the way it's going to go, and Dray needs to put down One-Thirteen roots and find himself a man too.
And HJ, is it too early to be already anticipating the series starring Trixie's boys?
The One Thirteen's stoic Lieutenant gets his HEA and it's hard-won. Rico has appeared in the first three books but has always felt a bit stand-offish to me, and now we get to see why he holds himself apart from the rest of his crew. Jesse was mentioned by Rico in the previous book so it wasn't a shock that he was destined for Rico.
Jesse really has reached the end of his line at the start of the story and his brother's best friend, Rico, is his knight in shining armour, even when Jesse isn't sure he wants to be saved. I felt so bad for all that Jesse had endured, and HJ wrote sensitively about the familial, social and economic problems people encounter that make them addicts and keep them addicted too.
Rico and Jesse were great characters, but the characters at the One-Thirteen, Mrs. Bloom and Ms. Margot Fonteyn, Klaus, Katerina, and Trixie and all her boys were also stars too. I loved the found family at the firehouse in each book but, this time, we also get Trixie's found family that welcomes in all the aforementioned characters too.
This is a long book, and a sweet love story, but I felt some things were glossed over and wanted more.
Captain Valentine is next and I can't wait to read his story. I also need Anton and Sawyer's love story, because I'm convinced that's the way it's going to go, and Dray needs to put down One-Thirteen roots and find himself a man too.
And HJ, is it too early to be already anticipating the series starring Trixie's boys?
December 26, 2025
I've been loving the Redwood Bay Fire series, and Jesse and Rico's story was another slam-dunk for me. Jesse was near rock bottom when this book began, and it was awful to experience how hopeless he felt about his life. If there was ever a man who I wanted to scoop up and shelter from the world, it was Jesse, so watching Rico offer him a helping hand made my heart soar. Getting Jesse away from the big city was meant to be temporary, an offer of kindness to allow him to refresh and reset his life, but it ended up being so much more than that. With space and a support system, Jesse transformed his life, and though it wasn't easy it was wonderful to follow along every step of his journey. Rico went from tolerating to adoring Jesse as they spent more time together, and nothing made me happier than seeing the two of them light up when they were in the room together. Rico was understandably cautious about pursuing Jesse romantically, not wanting their power imbalance to make him feel coerced into returning his affections. I really enjoyed the slower buildup to getting physical, and these guys were so in love and so dumb about communicating that I just had to giggle and wait for them to figure it out. When the time came, their chemistry was as explosive as I knew it'd be, and what made it even better were the fragile threads of hope that this relationship might be the one to last forever. In terms of the storyline, I had a lot of fun seeing Jesse find a job he was passionate about, Rico open up to the rest of his team, and the two of them settle into a cozy family unit. Life threw a couple of curveballs at these guys, and I was really proud of how they picked themselves up and continued to prioritize what matters most.
**I voluntarily read an early copy of this book. This review expresses my honest thoughts and opinions.
**I voluntarily read an early copy of this book. This review expresses my honest thoughts and opinions.
December 27, 2025
I would like to thank GRR for the opportunity to read and review this ARC.
ooooooh this was sooooo good! I LOVED the "save him from himself" transforming into soft, soothing love, the OTT action, heroes being heroes, and of course I was shrieking for Klaus the most perfect dog in the world!
This installment in the Redwood Bay Fire series had everything I wanted in a romance! There was the "childhood crush" history that never fails to unmake a human, whenever that flavour of adoration comes back around. There's a life gone off the rails, and I'd Felt every single ache for sweet, messy Jesse. There was the deeeelicious "Marriage of Convenience" that I couldn't wait to see turn into the "falling in love" because the truth of Jesse and Rico was always always there!
Rico was a stunner, a solid anchor, and the gentlest balm for his best friend's lil bro who was screaming for help, and I loved him for Jesse. And Jesse was the easiest babe to fall for right from the jump, and I'd wished only the kindest things for him from page 1 because he was simply precious and his light was about to go out.
Yes I cried.
And
Yesssss
This
Romance
Was as scrumptious as I knew it would be.
All the parentals were trash in this though, and I very much DID NOT understand why Jesse's parents were as they were. I mean I get it sort of, but not really. Kiddo had those wounds from childhood soooo…the band-aid ending gave me the ick.
Overall I really enjoyed Jesse and Rico's love story, because it was the best combination of safe and sound, and sweet, and sexy, and healing, aand I could read all that gentle "I see you" goodness forever.
ooooooh this was sooooo good! I LOVED the "save him from himself" transforming into soft, soothing love, the OTT action, heroes being heroes, and of course I was shrieking for Klaus the most perfect dog in the world!
This installment in the Redwood Bay Fire series had everything I wanted in a romance! There was the "childhood crush" history that never fails to unmake a human, whenever that flavour of adoration comes back around. There's a life gone off the rails, and I'd Felt every single ache for sweet, messy Jesse. There was the deeeelicious "Marriage of Convenience" that I couldn't wait to see turn into the "falling in love" because the truth of Jesse and Rico was always always there!
Rico was a stunner, a solid anchor, and the gentlest balm for his best friend's lil bro who was screaming for help, and I loved him for Jesse. And Jesse was the easiest babe to fall for right from the jump, and I'd wished only the kindest things for him from page 1 because he was simply precious and his light was about to go out.
Yes I cried.
And
Yesssss
This
Romance
Was as scrumptious as I knew it would be.
All the parentals were trash in this though, and I very much DID NOT understand why Jesse's parents were as they were. I mean I get it sort of, but not really. Kiddo had those wounds from childhood soooo…the band-aid ending gave me the ick.
Overall I really enjoyed Jesse and Rico's love story, because it was the best combination of safe and sound, and sweet, and sexy, and healing, aand I could read all that gentle "I see you" goodness forever.
December 28, 2025
I have read and loved every book in this series, and I've been waiting for the Lieutenant's story. While prior reading isn't technically required, I honestly think you're doing yourself a disservice by not reading the three previous books. It will certainly help you fully appreciate the side characters, as well as understand the true depth of the found family at the One Thirteen.
Rico is a man with so many layers, and the author does an incredible job peeling them back one by one and showing us what makes him tick. His restraint, his control, his loyalty and his quiet longing felt so real. It would have been so easy for Rico to write Jesse off the way everyone else (except his brother) has done, but something makes him stay. It is that choice and that refusal to be another person to give up on Jesse that makes Rico so appealing. Jesse, for all of his mistakes and missteps and terrible choices, just wants to be seen, and that's what he gets from Rico.
None of what these two deal with is easy. They stumble, they hurt, they make mistakes, but they keep choosing each other. In this book, we get to see them create a relationship that is rooted in past loyalty and built on trust, respect, and genuine care. It is heartbreaking and beautiful, and it is absolutely not a light read. There are some heavy topics covered here - addiction, recovery, relapse, and suicidal ideation to name a few, so check the trigger warnings - but it is so worth it.
Can't wait for Captain Valentine's story next!
[I received an advanced copy of this book. All reviews and ratings are my own.]
Rico is a man with so many layers, and the author does an incredible job peeling them back one by one and showing us what makes him tick. His restraint, his control, his loyalty and his quiet longing felt so real. It would have been so easy for Rico to write Jesse off the way everyone else (except his brother) has done, but something makes him stay. It is that choice and that refusal to be another person to give up on Jesse that makes Rico so appealing. Jesse, for all of his mistakes and missteps and terrible choices, just wants to be seen, and that's what he gets from Rico.
None of what these two deal with is easy. They stumble, they hurt, they make mistakes, but they keep choosing each other. In this book, we get to see them create a relationship that is rooted in past loyalty and built on trust, respect, and genuine care. It is heartbreaking and beautiful, and it is absolutely not a light read. There are some heavy topics covered here - addiction, recovery, relapse, and suicidal ideation to name a few, so check the trigger warnings - but it is so worth it.
Can't wait for Captain Valentine's story next!
[I received an advanced copy of this book. All reviews and ratings are my own.]
December 29, 2025
MY OPINION: Each book in this series is very different but good. This one, though, is a little grittier, as we are knee-deep in recovery throughout the entire story. I liked this book even though it covered a very sensitive topic.
Both men are single and not looking for anything but getting through their lives. As a firefighter, Rico spends his life protecting and serving the community. Maybe he is trying to compensate for his past. When his best friend asked him for a favor, he couldn’t refuse.
Jesse is at the bottom. An addict with nowhere to go. He is tired of the grind and simply doesn’t care to fight anymore. When his brother's best friend—Rico—is there to pull him out of the gutter, he doesn’t understand how he got lucky enough that someone might actually care.
Rico takes it upon himself to ensure this man does not fall back down the rabbit hole. They come up with a plan to get Jesse into rehab and offer him support and love he never had before. They embrace each other and find that there is more between them than a passing friendship. Feelings grow between them, and their secrets fall away.
While finding a way to be sober, Jesse also finds a way to accept that he isn’t worthless. He makes friends, gets a dog, and falls in love. It’s a sweet, simple love story that weaves between recovery and acceptance. This is a very different book from the other in the series, but still enjoyable to read. You see some of the MCs from the other group, who step up as family, and we meet a new family when Jesse gets a job. There is some spice and a lot of feelings, and of course, there is an HEA. And we can’t forget Kraus, he is the goodest boy!
Both men are single and not looking for anything but getting through their lives. As a firefighter, Rico spends his life protecting and serving the community. Maybe he is trying to compensate for his past. When his best friend asked him for a favor, he couldn’t refuse.
Jesse is at the bottom. An addict with nowhere to go. He is tired of the grind and simply doesn’t care to fight anymore. When his brother's best friend—Rico—is there to pull him out of the gutter, he doesn’t understand how he got lucky enough that someone might actually care.
Rico takes it upon himself to ensure this man does not fall back down the rabbit hole. They come up with a plan to get Jesse into rehab and offer him support and love he never had before. They embrace each other and find that there is more between them than a passing friendship. Feelings grow between them, and their secrets fall away.
While finding a way to be sober, Jesse also finds a way to accept that he isn’t worthless. He makes friends, gets a dog, and falls in love. It’s a sweet, simple love story that weaves between recovery and acceptance. This is a very different book from the other in the series, but still enjoyable to read. You see some of the MCs from the other group, who step up as family, and we meet a new family when Jesse gets a job. There is some spice and a lot of feelings, and of course, there is an HEA. And we can’t forget Kraus, he is the goodest boy!
December 13, 2025
**********Contains Spoilers**********
I really enjoyed this book and thought that it was another good addition to the Redwood Bay Fire Series. I’m so glad that Rico and Jesse found their way back to each other, since Rico is Jesse’s older brother Adam’s best friend since childhood. Man, my heart hurt for everything that Jesse has been through but he worked so bloody hard overcoming his addiction. I think that his struggles with wanting to drink after he worked so hard getting sober was portrayed realistically, as it would be a constant battle to stay sober. I also hurt when Rico explained the loss of his baby sister in a house fire and that his parents blamed him since he didn’t get her out, whereas he was only a teenager himself.
Their relationship has been strained ever since then. All I can say is that Jesse finally found a family at his new job dancing at Trixie’s which is absolutely nothing like the sleazy places he danced at while in LA, with Mama (Trixie) and the rest of the dancers. Klaus, Rico & Jesse’s ex police dog foster was adorable and the perfect addition to their family. I really love the One-Thirteen crew and I’m looking forward to reading some of their stories as the series continues. It’s Captain Julian’s turn next. I’ve pre-ordered his book, Blowing a Fuse which I’m looking forward to reading when it’s released, as well as more books from HJ Welch in the future. I’d definitely recommend this book, series and author to everyone.
I really enjoyed this book and thought that it was another good addition to the Redwood Bay Fire Series. I’m so glad that Rico and Jesse found their way back to each other, since Rico is Jesse’s older brother Adam’s best friend since childhood. Man, my heart hurt for everything that Jesse has been through but he worked so bloody hard overcoming his addiction. I think that his struggles with wanting to drink after he worked so hard getting sober was portrayed realistically, as it would be a constant battle to stay sober. I also hurt when Rico explained the loss of his baby sister in a house fire and that his parents blamed him since he didn’t get her out, whereas he was only a teenager himself.
Their relationship has been strained ever since then. All I can say is that Jesse finally found a family at his new job dancing at Trixie’s which is absolutely nothing like the sleazy places he danced at while in LA, with Mama (Trixie) and the rest of the dancers. Klaus, Rico & Jesse’s ex police dog foster was adorable and the perfect addition to their family. I really love the One-Thirteen crew and I’m looking forward to reading some of their stories as the series continues. It’s Captain Julian’s turn next. I’ve pre-ordered his book, Blowing a Fuse which I’m looking forward to reading when it’s released, as well as more books from HJ Welch in the future. I’d definitely recommend this book, series and author to everyone.
December 25, 2025
My review: 🌕🌕🌖
I’m not sure about this one. It was a beautiful journey to see Jesse work hard to be clean, and have Rico and his brother supporting him and having his back, but… the fact that Rico and Jesse end up together felt weird. There is your usual “I’ve had a crush on my older brother’s friend forever but he always saw me as a kid, but now I’m grown up”, you know how it goes. But the fact that Jesse was so depressed and such a mess, and Rico had commitment issues, and everything just gets swept away and they live there happily ever after… it felt somewhat hollow. There was o much potion in the hardships of being sober, and getting back into society, but they were glossed over. It was an entertaining and nice read, but the fact that it bordered such heavy topics with such a light hand… I’m not sure. It felt like Jesse’s journey and effort wasn’t treated with enough respect or depth and it would have been better if they had met after Jesse had been sober longer. And all of the hardships and struggle felt like a tool to force Rico and Jesse together. But it was also a hopeful love story, showing that everyone, even the ones that are set aside or feel the most broken, can also have a chance at love and happiness, even if it’s only in books.
I’m not sure about this one. It was a beautiful journey to see Jesse work hard to be clean, and have Rico and his brother supporting him and having his back, but… the fact that Rico and Jesse end up together felt weird. There is your usual “I’ve had a crush on my older brother’s friend forever but he always saw me as a kid, but now I’m grown up”, you know how it goes. But the fact that Jesse was so depressed and such a mess, and Rico had commitment issues, and everything just gets swept away and they live there happily ever after… it felt somewhat hollow. There was o much potion in the hardships of being sober, and getting back into society, but they were glossed over. It was an entertaining and nice read, but the fact that it bordered such heavy topics with such a light hand… I’m not sure. It felt like Jesse’s journey and effort wasn’t treated with enough respect or depth and it would have been better if they had met after Jesse had been sober longer. And all of the hardships and struggle felt like a tool to force Rico and Jesse together. But it was also a hopeful love story, showing that everyone, even the ones that are set aside or feel the most broken, can also have a chance at love and happiness, even if it’s only in books.
December 30, 2025
4.5 stars
This is the fourth book in the author’s Redwood Bay Fire series and features Rico’s long awaited book (long awaited by me anyway).
Long awaited or not, this one was much harder for me to read than any of the others in the series. Jesse, the other MMC and younger brother of Rico’s best friend, Adam, nearly broke my dang heart. He had had such a hard time as an adult after growing up as a child tv star that he was struggling with, and losing, to a drug and alcohol addiction. I wanted nothing more than to wrap him up in bubble wrap to protect him from anything that could possibly hurt or make it harder for him but thankfully Rico was there for him.
What started out as an attempt to save Jesse from his own destructive tendencies, became so much more in this sweet and steamy romance with a heartwarming redemption arc that ended up being so much more than I could’ve even hoped for. If that sounds like something you enjoy, you’ve GOT to check it out. While you’re at it, be sure and check out the other books in the series because, even though it CAN be read as a standalone, you’re not gonna want to. 4.5 stars for my sweet Jesse and his man, Rico.
I received a copy of this book for free but am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is the fourth book in the author’s Redwood Bay Fire series and features Rico’s long awaited book (long awaited by me anyway).
Long awaited or not, this one was much harder for me to read than any of the others in the series. Jesse, the other MMC and younger brother of Rico’s best friend, Adam, nearly broke my dang heart. He had had such a hard time as an adult after growing up as a child tv star that he was struggling with, and losing, to a drug and alcohol addiction. I wanted nothing more than to wrap him up in bubble wrap to protect him from anything that could possibly hurt or make it harder for him but thankfully Rico was there for him.
What started out as an attempt to save Jesse from his own destructive tendencies, became so much more in this sweet and steamy romance with a heartwarming redemption arc that ended up being so much more than I could’ve even hoped for. If that sounds like something you enjoy, you’ve GOT to check it out. While you’re at it, be sure and check out the other books in the series because, even though it CAN be read as a standalone, you’re not gonna want to. 4.5 stars for my sweet Jesse and his man, Rico.
I received a copy of this book for free but am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 25, 2025
This story was such a joy to read. Watching Jesse find his strength was honestly inspiring, and it’s a great reminder that with determination, and the right people around you, anything is possible. Jesse and Rico make a fantastic pair. Both were carrying hurts no one else could see, and it was really moving to watch them heal together.
I loved the moments with Ms. Bloom and little Margot. Ms. Bloom cracks me up every time, and she’s the steady mother figure this whole One Thirteen family leans on. Trixie and Katerina bring that same energy, which just makes everything even better.
The bit of angst from the parent drama and the Emerson situation added a nice layer of depth without overwhelming the story. And as always, the pets are one of my favorite parts of this series. Klaus was such a sweet addition, and his bond with Jesse and Rico made their emotional journey even richer.
It was wonderful spending more time with the One Thirteen family. I adore these characters, and the Dray cameos were a fun bonus. I’m still hoping we get more about that storyline because every little hint pulls me in even more.
I loved the moments with Ms. Bloom and little Margot. Ms. Bloom cracks me up every time, and she’s the steady mother figure this whole One Thirteen family leans on. Trixie and Katerina bring that same energy, which just makes everything even better.
The bit of angst from the parent drama and the Emerson situation added a nice layer of depth without overwhelming the story. And as always, the pets are one of my favorite parts of this series. Klaus was such a sweet addition, and his bond with Jesse and Rico made their emotional journey even richer.
It was wonderful spending more time with the One Thirteen family. I adore these characters, and the Dray cameos were a fun bonus. I’m still hoping we get more about that storyline because every little hint pulls me in even more.
December 21, 2025
This is the 4th in the Redwood Bay Fire series, and the first one I've read - you don't need to have read the others to make sense of this one.
Really enjoyed the romance between Rico, the fireman and Jesse, former child star, alcoholic, currently working as a stripper. They fit together nicely. Despite the amount of drama in Jesse's past, the romance itself fell together fairly easily. Loved the found family feel in this book - from the other firefighters Rico worked with, to the other dancers at the club Jesse danced in, to the neighbors in their building.
Medium spice, since it took awhile for them to get together. The first thing on the agenda was getting Jesse to rehab. The author points out in the forwarding note that once Jesse commits to rehab, he doesn't backslide. I appreciated knowing this - I'm not a fan of reading a book feeling like I'm sitting on pins and needles, waiting for the character to backslide.
Also - there's a dog!
Really enjoyed the romance between Rico, the fireman and Jesse, former child star, alcoholic, currently working as a stripper. They fit together nicely. Despite the amount of drama in Jesse's past, the romance itself fell together fairly easily. Loved the found family feel in this book - from the other firefighters Rico worked with, to the other dancers at the club Jesse danced in, to the neighbors in their building.
Medium spice, since it took awhile for them to get together. The first thing on the agenda was getting Jesse to rehab. The author points out in the forwarding note that once Jesse commits to rehab, he doesn't backslide. I appreciated knowing this - I'm not a fan of reading a book feeling like I'm sitting on pins and needles, waiting for the character to backslide.
Also - there's a dog!
December 29, 2025
Who is to say two things can't be true. Can't it be the case that when Jesse really hits rock bottom and needs someone to come to the rescue and give him the support he needs to get his act together that it would be Rico, his brother's best friend and a guy he has crushed on for a long time? And why not have it be Rico who can see past what he is not - life has not been easy for Jesse since his early success in Hollywood fizzled - and to see who he is and who he could be with some support. Some heavy themes in this one, but lots of caution and care was expended between these two as Jesse worked on his sobriety and Rico wanted to make sure that anything between them was real and not just gratitude. These two face some tough things on their way to their HEA, but they showed a lot of grit and grew into a stronger love because of it.
I received an ARC from GRR and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received an ARC from GRR and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 7, 2026
This was so good. Watching Jesse’s journey...finding his strength, healing, and learning to love again, was honestly such a joy. His growth felt real and earned, and seeing him and Rico come together was beautiful.
Jesse and Rico are fantastic together. They’re both carrying hidden hurts, and the way they learn to trust, communicate, and support each other really got to me. Their story has intensity, emotion, and a hard-earned happiness that makes it so satisfying.
The writing is solid, the chemistry is 🔥, and the team/found-family vibes were a huge highlight — all the teasing, support, and chaos you want. I loved the sense of community and the way everyone shows up when it matters.
A heartfelt, healing read that I flew through. I’m already excited for what’s next… and yes, I’m very curious who the captain’s person will be
Jesse and Rico are fantastic together. They’re both carrying hidden hurts, and the way they learn to trust, communicate, and support each other really got to me. Their story has intensity, emotion, and a hard-earned happiness that makes it so satisfying.
The writing is solid, the chemistry is 🔥, and the team/found-family vibes were a huge highlight — all the teasing, support, and chaos you want. I loved the sense of community and the way everyone shows up when it matters.
A heartfelt, healing read that I flew through. I’m already excited for what’s next… and yes, I’m very curious who the captain’s person will be
January 9, 2026
Rico and Jesse ❤️
4.5 Stars ⭐️
I loved both of these characters, their relationship build and the hard fought road to their HEA. Honestly I'm pretty much in love with this series and its characters. This book was less fluffy and more heavy hitting which made me fall in love a little more. My heart broke for Jesse, what he'd gone through was so terrible as it is with addiction. The author did a wonderful job with the emotional aspect of his struggle and imo the whole situation played out with reality which made me so happy that it wasn't glazed over with fluff, it was raw and painful. I loved that Rico was a strong, supportive and loving presence for Jesse in his time of need and always. The sexy bits were sexy and the sweet was swoon! I loved these guys, they were perfect for each other ❤️. I'd recommend.
* I received an ARC from GRR, this is my open and honest review *
4.5 Stars ⭐️
I loved both of these characters, their relationship build and the hard fought road to their HEA. Honestly I'm pretty much in love with this series and its characters. This book was less fluffy and more heavy hitting which made me fall in love a little more. My heart broke for Jesse, what he'd gone through was so terrible as it is with addiction. The author did a wonderful job with the emotional aspect of his struggle and imo the whole situation played out with reality which made me so happy that it wasn't glazed over with fluff, it was raw and painful. I loved that Rico was a strong, supportive and loving presence for Jesse in his time of need and always. The sexy bits were sexy and the sweet was swoon! I loved these guys, they were perfect for each other ❤️. I'd recommend.
* I received an ARC from GRR, this is my open and honest review *
December 15, 2025
Jessie and Rico story was intense, thrilling, with an emotional and psychological impact, dire situations, and a hard earned happiness.
They had hurdles, insecurities, trauma, and reluctance along their way as they rediscover themselves, learn to communicate, trust, and being truthful about their feelings, as well as avoiding all the toxicity from those that still impact their lives.
I loved the community and the true friends they made along the way, that helped when needed, the teasing and shenanigans, as well as the loving pets that wined their hearts.
I loved their happy moments and the good emotional ones, as well as the love they have for each other.
I enjoyed the story, and I’m looking forward to the next adventure.
They had hurdles, insecurities, trauma, and reluctance along their way as they rediscover themselves, learn to communicate, trust, and being truthful about their feelings, as well as avoiding all the toxicity from those that still impact their lives.
I loved the community and the true friends they made along the way, that helped when needed, the teasing and shenanigans, as well as the loving pets that wined their hearts.
I loved their happy moments and the good emotional ones, as well as the love they have for each other.
I enjoyed the story, and I’m looking forward to the next adventure.
January 1, 2026
Somehow the redwood bay fire series just keeps getting better and better. Book four, Up in Smoke, features Rico and Jesse and oh my yes. TW Jesse’s is active addiction at the beginning of the book and Rico ends up bursting into his life - quite literally - and rescuing me. While I do think this could be triggering for some, the majority of the book is Jesse working through his issues. And while he gets help and support from Rico, Rico isn’t doing it for him. Theresa are a lot of realistic elements of addiction here without making it dark. At its heart it’s still Rico and Jesse’s love story that’ll hit you in the feels with a dash of stalker and a German-speaking dog. There’s no down side here.
January 1, 2026
Someone to believe in you, matters! Jesse, reaches a point in his life where he feels he has no way but up. Rico, his older brother's best friend steps up to hold a hand out to help. Jesse, has been crushing on Rico his entire life. Their journey is rough and gives them opportunities to open a few doors and walk through to more and better. They learn they are braver and stronger than they thought. HJ gives us an emotional story of addiction, trying to fight it, support, rejection, acceptance, families and unconditional like and love. Great story, excellent characters, amazing supporting friends, families and found family. Well done, nice cover art! I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 8, 2026
Jesse and Rico have known each other since they were young kids but Rico is Jesse’s brother’s best friend and Jesse never believed he would look at in any kind of romantic way now here they are a decade or so later and fate has brought them back into each others life’s.
Things between them start off tedious but the more time they spend together the better it gets, and what starts off as a way to help Jesse turns into something so beautiful and very much real. I absolutely adored how much support Jesse and Rico received from not only Adam but from the firefighters and Jesse’s colleagues at the tavern. They hit a few rough spots but they support each other through it all and their happy ending is so inspiring. I can’t wait to read the other books on this series. ❤️😁
Things between them start off tedious but the more time they spend together the better it gets, and what starts off as a way to help Jesse turns into something so beautiful and very much real. I absolutely adored how much support Jesse and Rico received from not only Adam but from the firefighters and Jesse’s colleagues at the tavern. They hit a few rough spots but they support each other through it all and their happy ending is so inspiring. I can’t wait to read the other books on this series. ❤️😁
December 17, 2025
This great series continues with the story of Rico and Jesse. Rico is a caring risk taking firefighter who has a soft spot for his best friends young brother (Jesse). His caring and need to take care of others is a result of some bad things that have happened to him, Conversely, Jesse has life on string till he does not. Finding success early in life as an actor, he is living life to it fullest, till it all comes crashing down on him. Seems Rico is there to pick up, offering what Jesse needs--care, someone to believe in him and someone to help him find his confidence. A sweet great holiday read that was nice diversion to all the holiday books.
December 19, 2025
I've read most of this series and enjoyed them. Strong silent Rico had always intrigued me from the previous books so I was pleased to get his story. I found the first chapter heart breaking, when Jesse hits rock bottom and he's largely just tried to do the right thing. Having no-one there to help him in those moments was heart-breaking. Fortunately things improved for him from there. Jesse and Rico's relationship and the way they built their own family was heart-warming. Loved it but I would really have loved to see the nasty people who hurt Jesse at the start get their comeuppance! Look forward to Captain Valentine's story next.
December 26, 2025
This is the 4th book in the Redwood Bay Fire series and my favorite. It can be read as a standalone but I recommend all of them. The first chapter broke my heart as Jesse hit rock bottom. Rico is kind, patient and so supportive of Jesse. I loved watching Jesse find his way after rehab. He and Rico are perfect for each other. It’s always good to see the One Thirteen crew. They come together to help Rico and Jesse recover from a devastating fire. One of my favorite parts of the story is Klaus the German Shepherd. He quickly became part of their family. I really loved this story and look forward to the next book in the series.
December 26, 2025
This series has been amazing so far, I’ve loved all the boys, all the crew and their friends, the dogs and the neighbours, this book is no exception!!
Rico and Jesse’s book isn’t the normal boy meets boy, fall in love, has a little angst style book. Oh no, It’s sooooo much more! It’s dark, covering some harsher topics (as mentioned in the warnings) it’s deep, exploring through layers, it’s engaging, gripping, interesting with twists, it’s romantic and funny, it’s just such a brilliant read. I loved it from the start to the very end, it was just a great read and I adored the whole thing!
Rico and Jesse’s book isn’t the normal boy meets boy, fall in love, has a little angst style book. Oh no, It’s sooooo much more! It’s dark, covering some harsher topics (as mentioned in the warnings) it’s deep, exploring through layers, it’s engaging, gripping, interesting with twists, it’s romantic and funny, it’s just such a brilliant read. I loved it from the start to the very end, it was just a great read and I adored the whole thing!
December 27, 2025
Thank you for the book; here is my honest opinion:
Wow, this was so, so good! This series has been a highlight of my 2025 reading. This author is a go to for me whenever I want excellent fluff and the most lovable characters. This series definitely delivers that and so much more, each book has been a standout and Jesse and Rico are no exception. These two have an epic HEA and a really beautiful journey together. It’s definitely not a fluffy and fun but these two show up for each other in a big way and seeing Jesse take his control back was genuinely uplifting. Loved it a
Wow, this was so, so good! This series has been a highlight of my 2025 reading. This author is a go to for me whenever I want excellent fluff and the most lovable characters. This series definitely delivers that and so much more, each book has been a standout and Jesse and Rico are no exception. These two have an epic HEA and a really beautiful journey together. It’s definitely not a fluffy and fun but these two show up for each other in a big way and seeing Jesse take his control back was genuinely uplifting. Loved it a
December 28, 2025
I've enjoyed every couple in this series so far, but these two definitely have the angstiest storyline. Jesse has been abandoned by almost everyone in his life, including himself, and his sadness is palpable. Rico is a rescuer who doesn't let anyone in, but as the two get married for insurance their fake wedding raises real feelings. I loved seeing Jesse get the chance to be really himself. Best of all, the big scary events at the end of the book are external rather than internal to the couple (no 3rd act breakup). Once again the found family in the firehouse steps up and expands.
January 4, 2026
We've read about so many young stars who crashed and burned when they got older and the high life was gone. H.J. Welch brings that vividly to life with Jesse and makes it clear what a long-term fight this has been and how he hasn't managed to get it together yet. To mix that with one of my favorite tropes, the friend's younger brother, was an all around winner for me, especially with Rico who is an absolutely wonderful character. Steadfast, loving and tough in all the ways that matter. Two characters who deserve every good thing they get.
December 15, 2025
I was definitely drawn in emotionally with both Rico and Jesse. Rico had lost loved ones young and that definitely shaped him into the concerned and caring guy that he became. Jesse got everything he thought he wanted young and when he crashed, he really hit the bottom. Rico really was that special person for Jesse, and I could feel that familiarity between them was what was he needed to make it back. Jesse found himself and how to truly love with Rico. And well Rico finally got his Jesse!
December 17, 2025
I adored this story. Jesse and Rico are honestly meant to be. Jesse desperately needs someone to believe in him and help him up and Rico is just the man for the job. He may start out just doing a favor for his friend Aaron, but it doesn’t take long for his protective instincts to take over. This one was very moving and my heart was full while reading. Their relationship isn’t a fake one really ever so it was no surprise they fell so deeply that there was no looking back.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews