Just For Us

Wild Fire #5

by J.H. Croix

From USA Today Bestselling Author J.H. Croix comes a swoony, small-town firefighter romance packed with heat, heart & all the feels!

It all started with a bee sting, and ended with a firefighter who changed everything.

When a bee sting sends me into a near-anaphylactic shock, I crash into a boulder. Enter Kincaid Greene — rugged, swoon-worthy hotshot firefighter, all calm strength, quiet confidence and my unexpected hero. Even in my dazed, half-conscious state, my hormones take notice. Extra my dog instantly adores him.

Kincaid is the kind of small-town hero who falls hard and doesn’t hesitate. Protective, loyal, and determined to win my heart one slow, sizzling kiss at a time. He’s not afraid of the trust issues I’ve built brick by brick. But trusting a man like him—one who burns this hot—feels like playing with fire.

Too bad my heart doesn’t get the memo.

What starts as a slow burn turns into chemistry that smolders. Every touch feels like striking a match with an emotional pull we can’t ignore.

An emotional, steamy small-town Alaska firefighter romance with a protective hero who falls first, slow-burn tension, emotional angst, surprise baby, sizzling chemistry, hurt/comfort, found family and happily ever after.

*A full-length, standalone romance.

Genres: Contemporary Romance, Romance, Small Town Romance, Slow Burn, Surprise Pregnancy

208 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 20, 2026

About the author

USA Today bestselling author J. H. Croix writes emotionally charged, steamy small town Alaska romance featuring protective firefighter and first responder heroes with big hearts and smart, strong heroines. Best known for her interconnected series set in Willow Brook, Alaska, Croix creates immersive fictional communities where the town itself becomes a character and found family is at the heart of every love story.

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Reviews

[Wendy Livingstone · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the fifth book in this amazing series, and this is Kincaid and Tori’s story.
Kincaid is a hotshot firefighter, and he crosses paths with Tori when a bee sting sends her into an anaphylactic shock. Both characters have had traumatic childhoods, and tough lives.
This is a well written easy to read, slow burn, emotional roller coaster, with found family, friendships, tension, angst, challenges, hurt / comfort, trust issues, humour, witty banter, undeniable chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining, heartfelt, small-town romance.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.

[Julie Booklover · Rating 4 out of 5]

I cannot believe we are at book five in this wonderful series. As we return to Willow Brook Alaska for Tori and Kincaid’s story.

Tori has come to Willow Brook to lay low and escape the current scandal her father and mother’s best friend created. She succeeds until she has a nasty reaction to a bee sting. Kincaid comes to her rescue.
While not a native son, Kincaid does call Willow Brook home. One of the hot shot firefighters and a protector at heart. Both Tori and Kincaid have built walls around their hearts, maybe they can break down those walls together.

This series just gets better with each book. Kincaid is a swoony protector, and hero to Tori more than once. I love the chemistry and the slow burn as their journey unfolds taking us through to happily ever after.

Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.

[Shelley C · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kincaid and Tori❤️‍🩹

Kincaid and Tori find each other unexpectedly when Kincaid moves back to Willow Brook for his mom🥰 Both Kincaid and Tori have complicated pasts…Kincaid grew up without his father and Tori was betrayed by two people who should have a) known better and b) realised that their actions had broader implications and consequences😢

A good story which had some tear triggering moments but overall really enjoyed it❣️ I received an advanced copy via Booksprout and voluntarily leave my honest review😊

[Sarah · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is the story of Kincaid and Tori and is a continuation of the authors series of firefighter romances that take place in Alaska. It’s a cute story, both characters have trust issues but they have good chemistry with each other. They start seeing each other and then surprise! A little bundle is on the way. It’s a good story. If a little predictable

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Chandra Luna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just For Us by J.H. Croix is a heartfelt small-town romance filled with emotional depth, undeniable chemistry, and the kind of love that grows strongest when two wounded hearts learn to trust again. Set against the beautiful, rugged backdrop of Willow Brook, Alaska, this story delivers warmth, passion, and a reminder that sometimes the most unexpected moments lead to life-changing love.

For Tori, returning to Willow Brook isn’t exactly a happy homecoming. Years earlier, a painful scandal involving her father and her mother’s best friend left deep emotional scars and made trusting anyone—especially men—feel almost impossible. She’s learned to keep her guard up and her heart protected.

Then a bee sting changes everything.

What starts as a frightening allergic reaction quickly spirals into a dangerous situation, and suddenly Kincaid Greene, a rugged hotshot firefighter, is the one rushing to her rescue. Calm under pressure, steady, and quietly strong, Kincaid becomes Tori’s unexpected hero in more ways than one.

Kincaid didn’t come to Alaska looking for love. He moved there to help his mother fulfill a dream and to care for her as her health struggles grow more serious. Between firefighting and family responsibilities, relationships were never really part of his plan.

But meeting Tori changes that.

From the moment he saves her life, something sparks between them—an attraction that’s both immediate and deeply emotional. Yet their connection goes beyond chemistry. Both Kincaid and Tori carry wounds from their pasts, shaped by fathers who failed them in different ways.

What makes their relationship so compelling is the patience and care they show each other. Kincaid isn’t just protective—he’s thoughtful, supportive, and determined to prove that not every man repeats the mistakes of the past. Meanwhile, Tori slowly begins to realize that trusting someone doesn’t mean losing herself—it means allowing someone to stand beside her.

The small-town setting of Willow Brook adds a wonderful sense of community to the story, with familiar faces, supportive friends, and plenty of heartfelt moments that make the world feel lived-in and warm. And Bella, Tori’s loyal dog who instantly falls for Kincaid, adds an extra dose of charm that animal lovers will adore.

While the story includes plenty of sizzling chemistry, it’s the emotional connection between Kincaid and Tori—the way they help each other heal—that truly makes this romance shine.

If you love protective firefighter heroes, small-town Alaska romance, emotional healing, found family, and couples who fall hard and fight for each other, Just For Us is a touching and engaging addition to the Wild Fire Series.

Because sometimes the moment that knocks you off your feet…
is the moment that leads you straight to the person who will catch you.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[World Of Books 65 · Rating 5 out of 5]

A slow-burn spark ignited by the most unexpected moment.

Book five in Wild Fire Series proves once again why J.H. Croix is a must-read author, sweeping readers away with Just For Us—a small-town firefighter romance that simmers with tension before igniting into something unforgettable.

This is a slow burn layered with an undercurrent of chemistry so intense you just know when it finally breaks, it’s going to burn hotter than any wildfire—and every moment of anticipation is worth it.

Kincaid is everything you want in a swoon-worthy firefighter hero. He may not have grown up in this small town, but it’s undeniably his home. Steady, protective, and endlessly patient, he’s not afraid to take his time, slowly chipping away at the walls Tori has spent years building around her heart. But Kincaid isn’t without his own scars—his trust issues, rooted in complicated father wounds, add another layer of depth to his character and make his emotional journey just as compelling.

Tori’s past is marked by a scandal involving her parents, one that forced her to guard herself fiercely. Returning to town isn’t a picture-perfect fresh start—there’s no easy comfort. Her journey is emotional, raw, and completely relatable.

What makes this story truly special is how their shared struggles mirror each other. Both carrying the weight of family wounds, both hesitant to trust, and both quietly longing for something more—Kincaid and Tori’s connection feels deeply authentic. Watching them slowly learn to let their guards down and realise that together they might just heal what’s been broken is where this story really shines.

And it all begins with a moment you won’t see coming—a bee sting that quite literally brings these two together. What starts as a chance encounter becomes the spark that sets everything in motion, changing both of their lives in ways they never expected.

As always, Ms Croix delivers a heartwarming, spellbinding romance filled with sizzling chemistry, emotional depth, and characters you can’t help but root for. The result is a beautifully crafted happily-ever-after that feels earned, satisfying, and utterly swoon-worthy.

If you like:
   •   Small-town firefighter romances
   •   Slow burn with explosive chemistry
   •   Protective, patient heroes
   •   Emotionally guarded heroines
   •   Shared trauma and healing journeys
   •   Meet-cutes with unexpected twists

This is another standout in a series that just keeps getting better—and one you won’t want to miss. 🔥

[Happily Ever After Romance · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reviewed at Happily Ever After Romance

Just for Us is the fifth title in the Wild Fire series, which is part of the interconnecting world of Willow Brook. Up front, I don’t know how I missed this series, since I’ve enjoyed the others within this world. I can only blame my hectic and, at times, chaotic real life for that oversight. The fun part of this discovery is that I now get to go back to the beginning of Wild Fire and indulge myself in some new, exciting adventures.

Tori never expected that a bee sting and her life-threatening reaction to it would lead her to her future. When Kincaid stopped to help Tori, it was the first step in finding his future with a woman who had been badly hurt, often closed in on herself, and who had very little trust in humanity to give. What some might see as a complete stop to a relationship, Kincaid sees as a challenge, a good kind of challenge where letting go of the past and embracing a future that could include each other is the ultimate goal.

Tori had moved away from Willow Brook after her father’s affair with her mother’s (former) best friend came to light. She simply could not face knowing that everywhere she went, everyone she saw knew of the family shame. Eventually, missing her mother and her own friends, Tori came home… only to have a bee sting her and send her crashing into her future, if she’s brave enough to take a few risks and allow herself to trust someone again.

I enjoyed Just for Us so much. Both Tori and Kincaid have issues that need to be dealt with. Neither was looking for love, never expecting that they’d literally crash into it. But, since Tori’s aging, beloved dog, Bella, absolutely adores Kincaid… shouldn’t she give him a chance, too? Their story is well-written, emotional, and full of difficult personal growth. Watching both Kincaid and Tori step away from the past and embrace a future together was an emotional journey that I completely enjoyed. If that sounds like your kind of romance, then you’d love Just for Us. I’d not hesitate to recommend not only this story, but any story/series set in Willow Brook, with happy endings guaranteed.

*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the author or the author’s team via Booksprout, and I sincerely thank them for their trust. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*

[Marea · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the next book in the Wild Fire Series by J.H. Croix and it is set in this beautiful little Alaska town called Willow Brook. It is a stand alone book but it does help if you have read the other ones. If not then great because now you have a whole new collection to add to your never ending TBR list! It touches on subjects that normal everyday people have to deal with, which is one of the reasons why I love her books, especially this one. There is a little bit of spice in the book and some romance but it is more of dealing with their own hearts and minds that makes this book one of the best I have read this year.

Tori was born and raised in Willow Brook but ran away after a family scandal ripped not only the family apart, but her heart and made her so hesitant to find love. She came back home because she realized she missed it in so many ways and because she wanted to be with her mother and friends. She had no idea that when she was stung by a bee, that it would lead to being rescued by this handsome firefighter who recently moved to the town. His name was Kincaid Greene and he tugged at her heartstrings from the start. Romance was the farthest thing from her mind but there was just something about him.

Kincaid had moved there at the request of his mother, she had been to the town several times while she was in the Air Force and loved it. He wanted to remain close to her because of some medical issues she was having. The day he helped out Tori was a day he would never forget and as their paths kept meeting up, there was no denying a connection between the two of them. Just like Tori, Kincaid had his own trust issues that he needed to work through. The more time the couple spent together, the more they fell in love with each other. When a few situations presented themselves in their lives, there were only 2 options…give up on romance or work through it all and be in love forever. Each had to make their own decision. Hopefully it would be the same one and we could have a HEA.

Thanks to Wildfire Marketing and the author for an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.

[bookishWife · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is… okay. There’s a solid story underneath, and at times it’s genuinely good, but I found myself questioning the execution—whether that’s on the author or the editing side. The main issue is the lack of coherence between chapters. Individually, scenes work fine, but when you put them together, there are small inconsistencies that become hard to ignore. It almost feels like certain parts weren’t fully aligned or smoothed out in revision.

For example, there’s a scene at the Firehouse Café where Tori invites Kincaid to sit with her while she’s avoiding Shelly. They have a conversation about how awful dating apps are—but then in the very next chapter, the same topic comes up again as if it’s never been discussed. It ends up feeling repetitive rather than like a natural continuation.

There’s also a continuity issue with the girls’ card night. Tori agrees to go when she’s first invited, but later on, it’s written as if she’s just being invited for the first time. Moments like that make the timeline feel a bit disjointed and confusing.

Another thing that stood out was the inconsistency around contraception. During Tori and Kincaid’s early intimate scenes, there’s no clear mention of condom use—in fact, it almost reads like they’re not using any. But later on, it suddenly seems like they are, without any transition or clarification. On top of that, there’s a brief mention of Tori worrying she might be pregnant, but it isn’t followed up for quite some time, which makes it feel like a dropped or delayed plot point.

The use of time jumps didn’t help either. They felt unnecessary and didn’t really add anything to the story. In fact, the narrative might have flowed better without them, or with a clearer structure.

Overall, the book has a strong foundation and an engaging premise, but it really needed tighter editing. The inconsistencies and lack of continuity pulled me out of the story more than once, which made it harder to fully enjoy what could have been a much stronger read.

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is small town romance is set in Alaska and features Kincaid and Tori, two people scarred by the choices of their fathers. Kincaid is a hotshot firefighter who moved to Alaska at his mother's request, making sure to purchase a house with a mother-in-law suite for her. He's happy being single, especially since his dad has never been in the picture. Tori just moved back to her hometown, having left because of a scandal involving her father and her mother's best friend (at the time) and has major issues with trusting people. She is content with her life, but has to face some of her issues when her mother's ex-best friend moves back to town looking for absolution. When Tori is stung by a bee and has an allergic reaction, Kincaid comes to the rescue. The more their paths cross, the more they feel the attraction sparking between them.

I really enjoyed this story. There's some spice, but not so much that it drives the story. It's definitely not a slow burn either. I think I enjoyed it as much as I did because at the heart of the story are two people who have to face the impact of their fathers mistakes and come to terms with what that means in their lives before they can move on in their relationship. The romance is there, but it is the care they each take with the other - the understanding, consideration, and support they offer each other - that really made me fall in love with their story. My favorite quote was, "... in relationships, there are no guarantees. Ever. You don't know how it'll all go. So all you can do is learn to trust the big things." Plus there's an amazing pup involved! Thank you to the author for providing me with an ARC. The opinions expressed here about the book are entirely my own.

This is a fast read, standalone novel in the interconnected Wild Fire Series. You do not have to have read any of the previous books to enjoy this one, but I know I will be going back to read them now!

[Rebmay · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tory and Kincaid’s story touched my heart and induced a few tears and smiles. Kincaid is a recent transplant to Alaska, along with his mother who he feels needs his support due to a chronic medical condition. She wanted to move to Alaska and as a good and devoted son, he made it happen. His devotion to his mom and his need to help others are integral to his character. He is instantly attracted to Tory when he first sees her and especially after he comes to her rescue. He has some reservations about relationships due to his father’s abandonment of his mother before he was born. His connection to Tory feels different from anything he has felt in the past and he is willing to see if he and Tory can make a relationship work.

Tory is a strong, independent and warm-hearted woman who has major trust issues. Her issues stem from the ten year affair her father had with her mother’s best friend, a woman who felt like a second mother to Tory. The hurt and betrayal she felt were only magnified by her citizens of her small home town knowing everything that happened. She has only recently returned to town after a years long absence. She never expected to be instantly attracted to handsome hotshot firefighter Kincaid. He rescued her and they keep running into each other. His calm demeanor and his support when she is in a very awkward social situation only deepen the attraction. A date to a fundraiser event leads to a passionate encounter and feelings Tory isn’t sure she wants to deal with or acknowledge. Kincaid makes her feel safe, seen and heard, but is she ready to trust him with her heart?

This angsty, advance and retreat romance has a few twists and a very satisfying conclusion. I am happy to recommend it.

[Anne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Just For Us by JH Croix is a contemporary romance taking place in Alaska. It features Kincaid, a firefighter, and Tori, a waitress. Both have ties to Willow Brook: Kincaid’s mother and Tori left after high school, now is returned. Croix’ books always have more than just romance, although the romance is strong. Tori left town after the scandal of her father, who was a beloved police officer, was discovered to h ave been having an affair with her mom’s best friend; for ten years. Everyone knew...it’s a small town. Kincaid’s mother had been in the air force and got pregnant. The father, also in the air force, had been transferred before she found out and it took her a while to track him down. He wasn’t interested. Both, obviously, have trust issues. The attraction is immediate, but neither is looking for commitment. Until…

Croix writes simple, hometown characters, often with problems, but mostly happy with their lives. Everyone attached to the fire department is their to weigh in as well as a large portion of the townspeople. It’s always fun to catch up with characters who have already been featured or are long-standing in the town. Janet is one such character. She runs the local coffee shop, knows everyone, and has recently handed of the reins to Luna. She still comes in, though; she still gives advice. What a great character she is. The question lingers, can the two get over their individual traumas and move forward together, or no? Such a fun read. As always, a reader of romance can never go wrong with J H Croix.

I was invited to read Just For Us by the author. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Bookfunnel #JHCroix #JustForUs

[Char · Rating 5 out of 5]

This entire story is amazing - beautiful, touching, loving, emotional. Tori has come back to her hometown of Willow Brook to live. It’s been ten years since she left. Her father embarrassed and humiliated her mother and her when he admitted to a decade long affair with her mom’s best friend. She is trying to move on. Kincaid has moved to the small town with his mother. He’s a hotshot firefighter. His father abandoned his mother and him when he was born. He is also trying to move on. Tori sees Kincaid at the bar after he helped her out on the road. She is working but she notices him. When she looks at him she gets a feeling in her belly like a shimmy and a twist and butterflies-that never has happened before! He might be worth getting to know. Kincaid has never put much thought into women - never wanting to get into a relationship with one. But he is interested in Tori. Might be fun to see what a date would feel like with her. “She carried this spark, an independence woven through with a steely attitude that revved my engine.” You will want to take their journey. The story is filled with emotions - anger, caring, deception, loss, passion, playfulness, romance, sadness, surprises, twists and turns and the ultimate—love. Love for the town and for Alaska, for friends, for family, for each other and for the ultimate love of a furry friend named Bella. Bella is an important part of the story. Bella is family. It’s a really overwhelmingly beautiful and totally tender hearted read. An amazing story that I think you will enjoy!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Heidi Sturgess · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m loving this cover and having read the other books I couldn’t wait to get lost in Willow Brook and be amongst friends 🤗😉

We meet Kincaid in the beautiful Alaska enjoying a good brew at Firewood , he’s recently joined the hotshot crew ….. also Willow Brook is where his mum wants to be , she’s battling lupus and other health issues 💔 she’s deals with her issues in such a way that she inspires you 🤗

The first time Kincaid laid eyes on Tori he knew he was a goner and I’m a firm believer in the way a person treats an animal tells you a lot about their heart and he’s just sooooo good with Bella so he’s a keeper in my eyes even before the sparks ignite between them 🐾🥰

Both Kincaid and Tori have trust issues because of their past hurts created by loved ones and it’s sad because the biggest hurts usually come from those we trust and love but having said that there’s also an element of forgiveness that came through in this story and more often than not once we talk something out we can really love and really live life but also walk in the other persons footsteps , see things from a different perspective and this was the case for both our peeps . They deserve every ounce of happiness 🥰

Despite what Shelly did I couldn’t help but feel sorry for her to a degree and she was brave to admit to her mistakes , face them head on and try to mend bridges , it takes guts ….

Love Bella the soul dog 🐾🥰

I just loved being around my people in Willow Brook again and can’t wait to come back 🤗

[Jean · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book five in The Wild Fire series and it is Tori and Kincaid’s story and omg it is definitely a must read. Kincaid is the new hot shot firefighter in Willow Brook Alaska and he loves his job and also looks forward to bonding with his work mates. Tori loves living in Willow Brook along with her dog Bella even though she has bad memories of her time hear before when her father’s affair came to light, Tori also worked at Fireweed Winery which keeps her busy. Tori and Kincaid had a instant attraction from the first time that they met and it just got stronger from there first kiss but when they eventually get together for the first time they are absolutely explosive and sparks fly but unfortunately they both have baggage and big trust issues which keeps them from moving forward but will they be able to take a chance and communicate with each other before it is too late or will they walk away and miss out on something so special between them, well only time will tell what the outcome will be for them in the end. Tori and Kincaid had many ups and downs along the way but hopefully they will realise in time and take a chance and trust that they are making the right decision. Wow this book will take you on a rollercoaster ride of so many emotions with everything that they have both been through and they definitely deserve a happy ending. I couldn’t put this book down as it was so addictive and I can’t wait to read the next book in this amazing series.

[Read.Review.Repeat Blog · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Every time I pick up a book from this author it always feels like I am coming home. The world’s she creates is nothing short of amazing and I honestly wished they were real.
Kincaid and Tori are both wonderful individual characters, but together as a couple they just make sense.
Both have been devastated from the actions of their fathers, which they still carry with them in the present, but I think Tori struggled with this the most. It makes her second guess just about everything, especially people’s intentions and it really doesn’t do her any favors.
But with basically every book this author writes, the character growth is what makes her stories so special. Tori is a great example and it was beautiful to read her come into her own.
It was also great to catch up with previous characters and it did really feel like I was catching up with old friends." ~Sharon


You can't help but root for Tori and Kincaid! Kincaid is a new addition to the hotshot crew. Tori was born and raised but has come home after being away. Tori and Kincaid connect through their shared father heartbreak. Tori was betrayed and now finds it hard to trust, Kincaid always had questions. As they both navigate the growing attraction and unexpected feelings they also heal a part of themselves. This story was a fast read with all of the friendship, drama, heat and love I have come to love in Willow Brook, AK. ~Cindy

[Carolee · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you’re looking for a small-town romance that really sizzles, Just For Us by J.H. Croix is a must-read. The story kicks off in the most unexpected way—a bee sting that leads to a near disaster, only for Tori to be rescued by Kincaid Greene, a firefighter with charm to spare. Even in the midst of chaos, there’s an instant spark (and her dog’s approval!), setting the stage for a slow-burning romance that feels authentic and heartfelt.

Kincaid is the definition of a swoon-worthy hero: protective, loyal, and determined to win Tori over one gentle step at a time. The chemistry between them is undeniable, gradually building from cautious glances to sizzling moments that will keep you turning the pages. The emotional pull is strong, and Croix does a fantastic job exploring trust, vulnerability, and the comfort that comes from finding someone who truly cares.

This book has everything fans of steamy firefighter romances crave—hurt/comfort vibes, a surprise baby twist, and a happily ever after that feels well-earned. The writing is top-notch, the characters are genuine, and the chemistry is off the charts. Just For Us is perfect for anyone who loves interconnected small-town stories with real emotion and plenty of heat. Highly recommend!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Reva Parks · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just for Us by J.H. Croix seemed shorter than most of her books, but that may be because I enjoyed it so much. Not only was it a great romance, but the reader got to catch up on all the other characters in the Alaska town of Willow Brook her readers know so well. Tori grew up in Willow Brook but just recently moved back, feeling estranged from everyone because her father was the beloved policeman in town who she caught with her mother's best friend when she was 16. Come to find out he had had a ten-year affair with her, then married her, moved to Anchorage, and then he cheated on her, too. But Kincaid had scars, too. His mother had been in the Air Force, stationed in Willow Brook, when she discovered she was pregnant. He had been transferred and by the time she found the sperm donor with the news, he'd moved on. His mother loved Alaska and had retired with Lupus, so Kikncaid took a job as a hotshot firefighter, bought a home with a mother-in-law suite, and settled them in the small town.

Tori and Kincade were attracted to each other immediately and he regularly spent the night with her. This tickled his mother as he was 33 and had never been in a relationship before. The question is: will either of these two bachelors be able to believe in their love enough to make a commitment?

[Leslie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Emotional Sweet Addition to Series
Tori does not trust in relationships or believe in love. There is always a question mark. She never believed her dad could do what he did, but he did. Now she feels so safe with Kincaid that it is terrifying her. She never feels safe with men. Letting her guard down is not something she can imagine doing. Yet she is with Kincaid. He feels steady, grounded and even kind. Tori makes Kincaid feel something he hasn’t in years. Something bracing and electric and alive. He does not want to screw it up which is not something he usually thinks too hard about. Tangled somewhere deep in him are the faded scars of absence, of growing up without a father. Of watching his mom carry it all alone and he does not want to be that man to anyone. This is another endearing hot shot firefighter romance set in Willow Brook, Alaska. Kincaid and Tori’s chemistry is off the charts and with that comes lots of spice, emotion and growth making for a great story. Love catching up with all the other residents of Willow Brook that I met in the first four books of this series too.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Schellie · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you are looking for a spectacularly spicy, smolderingly hot fire fighter romance, you've found it right here!
Tori has spent the last few yrs away from Willow Brook since her dad & her mom's best friend had an affair. It's awful tough to be around town when everybody knows what your high profile dad has done to the family. It's also tough to give any guy a chance, they are all the same, her dad proved that.
Kincaid has never known his dad, his mom has been a single parent his whole life. Now they moved from MN to AK because it was on her bucket list. She has health issues & he takes care of her. Having time for a relationship & being a hotshot fire fighter isn't in the cards.
When he saves Tori's life after a bee sting & car accident, there is no turning back. They are on the relationship trajectory now.
Add in her elderly dog Bella(who love Kincaid), two mom's who just want happy kids & a boatload of meddling friends & you have relationship goals for days. Can Kincaid prove to her that he is trustworthy, kind, compassionate & a true partner? Can Tori figure her feelings out before she pushes too hard & loses the best thing to ever happen to her? This book was fantastic! Enjoy!

[Joyce · Rating 5 out of 5]

Growing up in Willow Brook Alaska, Tori left after the scandal of her father having an affair with her mother’s best friend Shelly. Unfortunately, it had been going on for a decade causing her to lose trust in everyone. She now has returned to town as she wanted to be close to her mother and her friends. Her mother has let the betrayal go and is trying to help Tori get past it too. It is hard as Shelly has returned to town too. One day as she was taking her aging dog Bella for a walk, she got stung by a bee. The last thing she heard was her dog barking frantically right before she lost consciousness and has an accident. When she came to, she saw Kincaid, a hotshot firefighter, letting her know she would be okay that she had an allergic reaction to the bee sting. From then on, they seemed to pass each other’s paths. As they started talking, they opened up about their families and they each had father issues. They were totally different but still issues that caused them not to want to think of marriage. They became closer and spent more and more time together could she ever hit the point she could trust and realize that what her father did isn’t what all men do.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Kara Quade · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tori who was born and raised in Willow Brook has moved back home to be with her mother after her father's betrayal blew up their family when she was a teenager. A bee sting leads to anaphylactic shock and a rescue by a handsome hot shot firefighter named Kincaid. Kincaid moved to Willow Brook with his mother who is dealing with medical issues because she fell in love with the area when she was in the Air Force. Kincaid and Tori have an instant connection and chemistry. Neither want anything serious but can't seem to stay away from each other. How does Kincaid react when his mother tells him that his father wants to meet and speak with him? Can Tori let go of her anger over her father's infidelity that led to the destruction of her family? How does Tori react to the surprise news she gets? How does Kincaid react when Tori tells him her news? Can Kincaid and Tori overcome their issues and find their happily ever after? I loved Just For Us by J.H. Croix. Kincaid and Tori are a great couple who have amazing chemistry. I would highly recommend getting Just For Us and the other books in the Wild Fire Series by J. H. Croix. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Rhonda · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is another wonderful book by J.H. Croix set in Willow Brook, Alaska. There are a lot of hot shot firefighters there and it's a good thing for Tori. She'd been out enjoying the views by the water and had started to get in her car when she was bit by a bee. The next thing she knows is that a really good looking guy is over her telling her that she's going to be ok. Apparently, she was having an allergic reaction to the bite. Luckily, Kincaid heard her dog, Bella, barking and went to investigate. He had an epi-pen to help her reaction. Kincaid insisted on taking her to the hospital since her car had damage from her accident. After Tori gets home, Kincaid exchanges information with her an insists that she call him if she needs anything. They are attracted to each other but both have things in their past that don't allow much trust. I liked seeing other couples from previous books and everyone else that helps Tori and Kincaid through their relationship journey. J.H. Croix always writes with such empathy towards everyone's situations. I received an early copy from Booksprout. I have my own copy on order. I'm leaving my honest review.

[Pam · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an emotional sweet addition to the series. Though I think it could be read as a standalone book, it think reading the others stories helps with the side characters and world building.

Tori has recently moved back to Willow Brook and is loving being back. Sure there are still sometimes where the memories of what happened all those years ago with her father, meet her head on. But she is still happy to be back, starting a new in a familiar place, with familiar people.

Kincaid has moved to town and joined the Hotshot Firefighter crew. Bringing his mom to the place she has always wanted to return to. Helping care for her while working a demanding job can be a bit sometimes but he wouldn't have it any other way.

Tori and Kincaid make a fast connection. Though neither of them are looking for a relationship, they quickly find themselves searching out the other. Missing each other when they are not together. When feelings start to get involved, will they be able to push past the fears their past has instilled or will they run from what could be something beautiful?

Grab your copy and find out.

*** Advanced copy provided in exchange for an honest review.***

[Aspen G · Rating 4 out of 5]

Just For Us is an angsty and emotional read with a sweet and protective hero and a heroine who writes off everyone—until she doesn’t. Kincaid and Tori are each working through dad trauma of their own, and when they come together and open up to each other it is so beautiful. Kincaid is trustworthy and caring, compassionate and kind, and he falls irrevocably for Tori. It’s so sad how she lets her father’s behavior cloud her judgement of all people, and it’s clear she never took the time to talk about and work through her issues. That Kincaid keeps showing up for her and she fails to communicate with him over and over, running the same old narrative in her head highlights the depth of the work she needs to do on herself. These two are both so relatable and real, and their connection snaps and sizzles wonderfully. And I adore sweet Bella and the ladies that help Tori navigate her emotions. This interconnected stand alone is another sweet installment in the Alaska world that author JH Croix had built.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Kelchickbooklover · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love being back in Willow Brook, and this time we get Kincaid and Tori's cute-met story. Just For Us is a sweet, slow-burn, well-written, and enjoyable love story you just can't stop reading. Ms. Croix pulls you in with her characters and how they weave their way into your heart, as well as her storylines that have you riding a rollercoaster of emotions.
They both have complicated pasts that see Tori guarding herself and Kincaid having a traumatic childhood and now caring for his mother. Who would have guessed a bee sting would have a hotshot and sexy firefighter coming to your rescue? Right from the start, you could feel there was more to why Kincaid wanted to stay and make sure she was ok. The only problem that he faces is that Tori has built a brick wall around her heart because of what happened between her parents and her mother's best friend. Kincaid was determined to wait and slowly get Tori to see he was nothing like her father; he was there to stay and she could trust him.
I loved how Kincaid did little things for Tori that slowly broke down her walls, and she finally let him in. Talk about a love that was built on friendship and patience.

[Amanda Marlowe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kincaid has come back to Willow Brook with his mother, she spent time here when she was in the forces, and met his father. Her health isn't great so they've bought a house with a granny annexe. He has issues about relationships because he never knew his father. He's a firefighter and has found new friends and caught up with the old.
Tori has come back after several years away, her father and her mother's best friend caused a lot of problems and in a small town everyone knew what had happened. She has huge trust issues, unable to believe what her father and Shelly did.
Kincaid hears a dog barking and goes to see what's wrong, Tori has been stung and has gone into anaphylaxis, he has an epipen and helps her to recover. He's immediately attracted to her but decides the circumstances aren't appropriate!
Tori feels safe with him, they start a relationship but don't call it that! She still has trust issues and he's still wary of relationships.
A great pair, he shows her he loves with actions, can he gain her trust?
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

Another great read from JH

[Elizabeth Mazzie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was so excited that there was another book in this series. I was looking forward to Kincaid and Tori’s story! When you meet them he is rescuing her after she crashes her car because she got bit by some kind of bug. After their first meeting, they run into each other again and they kiss and there is an instant connection. After this they work on meeting and getting to know each other cause they both have trust issues. Both grew up without fathers for one reason or another. As their relationship builds he goes off to work cause he is a firefighter and she finds out she’s pregnant. This causes them to have a small test in their relationship and it gets out to the test. When she needed him most she reaches out to him and he is there. They work through everything together and keep on building that relationship and making it stronger.
I did enjoy this book, and I think their story is well written and shows the ups and downs of a quick to happen relationship. However I find that it just ended. I was reading along and it was done. I don’t think it was ready to end that quickly. I know the last chapter said epilogue but it just didn’t make sense. I wish we had more of their story.

[RK · Rating 4 out of 5]

Just For Us takes us back to Willow Brook, Alaska where the streets teem with firefighters and the women who love them.

Tori is an Willow Brookian (is that a real word?) with a tangled past due to her father and mom's ex-best friend starting a scandal and ripping apart their families years ago. Tori still feels ripples of the small town drama her father created but finds solace in the arms of Kincaid, a new-in-town hotshot firefighter.

Sparks fly as Tori and Kincaid fall for each other while grappling with their own separate father issues and later a situation that could do their relationship in.

I enjoyed this latest installment in the Wild Fire series. Tori and Kincaid's bond was equal parts sweet and hot. Bella, Tori's elderly dog, was a delightful addition to their story. The cast of Willow Brookians (I'm going with that word) add that special something as we get to watch Tori and Kincaid find their way to each other.

Thank you to the author for an advanced copy of this book.

[Kathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have read many of Ms. Croix's books and have enjoyed all of them, this one was no exception. The chemistry between the characters, Tori and Kincaid, felt real the whole time. You could feel the tension of their backstories creeping in and taking hold of both of them. The topic of fidelity and trust really hit home, and I had tears in my eyes on more than one occasion. I am not a crier, but this story brought it out in me. I cheered for Kincaid and Tori the whole way through and shouted at them if they did something stupid. Tori's dog, Bella, was a bright spot as well, since I am an animal lover. Dogs offer such comfort all around no matter what. Tori definitely needed Bella when Kincaid was called out for fires and she needed support, so she didn't miss him. I definitely recommend this book to everyone. You don't have to read the series in order, it helps to get to know the characters, but not necessary. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.