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Cupid Meets Crime Scene #1
Red Flag Warning
She forecasts Red Flag Warnings for a living.
Now she's dating one.
As a meteorologist, Iris O'Hara spends her days forecasting the weather and issuing warnings to keep people safe. She never expected the biggest hazard would be Hector Madeira—a brooding park ranger, military veteran, and the human embodiment of a red flag warning. Iris stumbles upon the body of a missing woman, bringing Hector into the fold, but his permanent scowl and a suspicious amount of flannel make it hard to concentrate on anything else when they are forced into close proximity.
When a wildfire tears through the national park where he's stationed, Hector and Iris must work together. But as the fire spreads and secrets ignite, they’ll have to decide which burns hotter — the wildfire outside, or the one between them. Nothing says romance like running from a killer in the middle of a wildfire.
Now she's dating one.
As a meteorologist, Iris O'Hara spends her days forecasting the weather and issuing warnings to keep people safe. She never expected the biggest hazard would be Hector Madeira—a brooding park ranger, military veteran, and the human embodiment of a red flag warning. Iris stumbles upon the body of a missing woman, bringing Hector into the fold, but his permanent scowl and a suspicious amount of flannel make it hard to concentrate on anything else when they are forced into close proximity.
When a wildfire tears through the national park where he's stationed, Hector and Iris must work together. But as the fire spreads and secrets ignite, they’ll have to decide which burns hotter — the wildfire outside, or the one between them. Nothing says romance like running from a killer in the middle of a wildfire.
342 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 9, 2026
18 people are currently reading
158 people want to read
About the author
Allison Bettes
8 books44 followersRomantic Suspense Author
My books are a thrilling blend of romance, mystery, and suspense — think Cupid Meets Crime Scene.
My journey into the world of romance and suspense started when my grandma handed me her well-worn copies of Danielle Steel and Nora Roberts novels — I was hooked.
My day job is a scientist, but I'm also a mom to both 2-legged and 4-legged children.
My books are a thrilling blend of romance, mystery, and suspense — think Cupid Meets Crime Scene.
My journey into the world of romance and suspense started when my grandma handed me her well-worn copies of Danielle Steel and Nora Roberts novels — I was hooked.
My day job is a scientist, but I'm also a mom to both 2-legged and 4-legged children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
January 11, 2026
Red Flag Warning by Allison Bettes is about a grumpy park ranger and a sunshine weather reporter who get thrown together because of a murder case in a national park. It's mostly a romance, but there's also a mystery that keeps you guessing throughout the book!
This was such a fun read for me! It's soooo sweet and I feel like it did the grumpy-sunshine trope PERFECTLY! I loved watching the MMC try and fail to keep his distance...so freaking sweet! I loved their connection and was 100% rooting for them the entire time. I loved that the FMC felt so real and like the kind of person you'd want to be friends with. All the side characters (ESPECIALLY SARGE) were also great, and I felt like they added so much to the story. The desert national park setting was also really nice and easy to picture and Bettes' writing style is incredibly easy to get sucked into! This was definitely the kind of book where you look up and realize you just spent forever reading without realizing it.
I really loved the blend of romance with a little touch of suspense. It never stopped feeling like a romance, but the mystery element kept me guessing and I ended up being genuinely surprised like I'd have been if I was reading a suspense/thriller. The pacing was smooth the whole time! There was always something happening whether it be on the romance or suspense side and it never felt like anything was slow or dragging. This book gave me such a warm and happy feeling and if you love grumpy/sunshine, protective MMCs, some spice and romantic suspense that stays fun and engaging, then I'd definitely recommend picking this up for sure! I'm soooo so excited to continue the series when the next book comes out!!!
*Thank you to The Author Agency & Allison Bettes for the ARC! All opinions are my own!*
This was such a fun read for me! It's soooo sweet and I feel like it did the grumpy-sunshine trope PERFECTLY! I loved watching the MMC try and fail to keep his distance...so freaking sweet! I loved their connection and was 100% rooting for them the entire time. I loved that the FMC felt so real and like the kind of person you'd want to be friends with. All the side characters (ESPECIALLY SARGE) were also great, and I felt like they added so much to the story. The desert national park setting was also really nice and easy to picture and Bettes' writing style is incredibly easy to get sucked into! This was definitely the kind of book where you look up and realize you just spent forever reading without realizing it.
I really loved the blend of romance with a little touch of suspense. It never stopped feeling like a romance, but the mystery element kept me guessing and I ended up being genuinely surprised like I'd have been if I was reading a suspense/thriller. The pacing was smooth the whole time! There was always something happening whether it be on the romance or suspense side and it never felt like anything was slow or dragging. This book gave me such a warm and happy feeling and if you love grumpy/sunshine, protective MMCs, some spice and romantic suspense that stays fun and engaging, then I'd definitely recommend picking this up for sure! I'm soooo so excited to continue the series when the next book comes out!!!
*Thank you to The Author Agency & Allison Bettes for the ARC! All opinions are my own!*
January 10, 2026
I had never read a romantic suspense novel but my cousin raved about Allison Bettes’s previous novels so I was very excited to read Red Flag Warning and I ended up loving it. I love that Iris works in a STEM field as a meteorologist, that she loves her curves and that she has a supportive family and co-workers. I love that Hector doesn’t think he is relationship material but he starts to see himself through Iris’s and his family’s eyes through his relationship with Iris who he considers his ideal woman. I didn’t know if I’d appreciate the crime and action part of this book but it did help move the story along and created more of a connection between Hector and Iris. Thank you to author Allison Bettes for the opportunity to read this early!
January 9, 2026
RED FLAG WARNING is a vibrant, addicting devour that binds every fiber of your heart from page one and won't let go, the electrifying dynamic between Iris O'Hara, a talented meteorologist, and Hector Madeira, a moody park ranger, is visceral from the moment they meet! Iris's infectious positivity and energy rivals beautifully with Hector's flannel-clad grumpiness, delivering chemistry that flames off the pages! The Nevada desert setting, with its enormous panoramas and wildfire dangers is suited for a romantic story that feels powerful and alive, meteorology and STEM lessons are sprinkled throughout, making Iris feel natural and knowledgeable, this was a meticulously well-thought romance that you can see that every detail was well-researched!!!
.
Allison Bettes features Iris' work into the plot in an exceptionally and nuanced approach, giving levels of mystery to the story while still keeping the romance at the forefront, this is a book that will have you flipping pages, waiting for the next heart-stopping moment and touching connection between these two, the suspense in this novel is arresting, when Iris discovers the body of a missing lady, the implications rise dramatically, pushing her and Hector into a potentially dangerous entanglement that neither expected. The stress of forced contact, particularly in the midst of a wildfire threatening the park, gives each scene an atmosphere of emergency!
.
Hector's military and law enforcement background give him a layered, vibrant presence that tempers Iris' knowledge and powerlessness, their relationship progresses with a surprising realism, their communication is unambiguous, trust grows organically, and the grumpy-sunshine dynamic is rendered with sophistication, even the supporting characters, from Sarge the lovely K9 to the colorful neighbors and coworkers, add to the plot without taking away from the primary romance! Every element of suspense is compensated for by emotional stakes, leading in a brilliantly addicting arrangement of danger and yearning!
.
It's extremely entertaining for witnessing them conquer desire, trust, and threat while remaining true to themselves, admist the destruction of wildfire and the suspensful crime, it is really pulse-pounding to feel how the relationship evolves from details that just blow your mind, the novel never trades tension for romance, the risk of the examination and the physical wildfire keep the blood pumping, but the intimate moments seem electrifying and highly personal, this is a rare romance in which characters mature and disclose new aspects of themselves, leaving the passion and heart inevitable and enchanting!!!
.
Allison Bettes features Iris' work into the plot in an exceptionally and nuanced approach, giving levels of mystery to the story while still keeping the romance at the forefront, this is a book that will have you flipping pages, waiting for the next heart-stopping moment and touching connection between these two, the suspense in this novel is arresting, when Iris discovers the body of a missing lady, the implications rise dramatically, pushing her and Hector into a potentially dangerous entanglement that neither expected. The stress of forced contact, particularly in the midst of a wildfire threatening the park, gives each scene an atmosphere of emergency!
.
Hector's military and law enforcement background give him a layered, vibrant presence that tempers Iris' knowledge and powerlessness, their relationship progresses with a surprising realism, their communication is unambiguous, trust grows organically, and the grumpy-sunshine dynamic is rendered with sophistication, even the supporting characters, from Sarge the lovely K9 to the colorful neighbors and coworkers, add to the plot without taking away from the primary romance! Every element of suspense is compensated for by emotional stakes, leading in a brilliantly addicting arrangement of danger and yearning!
.
It's extremely entertaining for witnessing them conquer desire, trust, and threat while remaining true to themselves, admist the destruction of wildfire and the suspensful crime, it is really pulse-pounding to feel how the relationship evolves from details that just blow your mind, the novel never trades tension for romance, the risk of the examination and the physical wildfire keep the blood pumping, but the intimate moments seem electrifying and highly personal, this is a rare romance in which characters mature and disclose new aspects of themselves, leaving the passion and heart inevitable and enchanting!!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Iris and Hector have crossed paths before. Both times Hector has been in the role of protector. The first time it was to protect Iris's sister, this time it's to protect her. I thought this was a good read. I enjoyed all the layers of this book. You have the murder mystery, someone stalking Iris, and the building romance between Hector and Iris. This is a great book to binge read in one sitting. I can't wait for the next book in this series!!
Thank you Allison Bettes for my complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Thank you Allison Bettes for my complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
January 10, 2026
ARC Review
I read this book in one sitting! Hector was completely swoon-worthy, I loved his grumpiness and how he melted for Iris. Their love story was beautiful, but what I really loved was that it wasn’t just a romance. The crime scene elements and mystery/thriller aspects added so much tension, especially with Iris being stalked and trying to figure out who was behind it. This kept me hooked from start to finish. I really enjoyed this read.
I read this book in one sitting! Hector was completely swoon-worthy, I loved his grumpiness and how he melted for Iris. Their love story was beautiful, but what I really loved was that it wasn’t just a romance. The crime scene elements and mystery/thriller aspects added so much tension, especially with Iris being stalked and trying to figure out who was behind it. This kept me hooked from start to finish. I really enjoyed this read.
December 17, 2025
I received this book as an e-arc and I am SO thrilled I got to read this book early.
Iris is a meteorologist & Hector is a retired vet, retired LEO, and current park ranger. They meet up under unusual circumstances & have the most precious grumpy x sunshine relationship throughout it all. If you like suspenseful romances, PICK THIS BOOK UP!!
Iris is a meteorologist & Hector is a retired vet, retired LEO, and current park ranger. They meet up under unusual circumstances & have the most precious grumpy x sunshine relationship throughout it all. If you like suspenseful romances, PICK THIS BOOK UP!!
December 27, 2025
I actually LOVED the epilogue to this book! I don’t usually bc they are so predictable but I loved finding out where this adorable couple ends up. Hector wants to be a big bad tough guy but he’s a soft sweetyyy 💚💜❤️
January 16, 2026
Thank you to the @authorallisonbettes and @bookedwiththeemilys for the #gifted e-book.
This book is a captivating blend of romance and intrigue that will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.
Meet Iris O'Hara, a determined meteorologist, and Hector, the enigmatic park ranger with a grumpy exterior. Their worlds collide when Iris accidentally discovers a dead body in the National Park where Hector works. As a shadowy figure stalks Iris, Hector steps in to protect her and uncover the truth behind the mystery. Their connection ignites, and the chemistry between them is electric.
What struck me most was how Iris stood out as a robust and relatable female protagonist, completely secure in who she is. And Hector, his grumpiness only adds to his charm as he finds himself melting for Iris in the most touching ways. Let’s not forget Sarge, the incredible K9 companion, who adds warmth and loyalty to the story.
While the romance between Iris and Hector is beautifully portrayed, it’s the rich layers of crime scene investigation and suspense that truly elevate this novel. The blend of mystery and thriller elements creates a gripping tension that had me hooked throughout.
If you cherish stories that weave together love and suspense, this book is an absolute must-read. It’s the inaugural entry in the new series, Cupid Meets Crime Scene, and I can’t wait to dive into the next installment. This one is out now, so be sure not to miss it!
This book is a captivating blend of romance and intrigue that will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.
Meet Iris O'Hara, a determined meteorologist, and Hector, the enigmatic park ranger with a grumpy exterior. Their worlds collide when Iris accidentally discovers a dead body in the National Park where Hector works. As a shadowy figure stalks Iris, Hector steps in to protect her and uncover the truth behind the mystery. Their connection ignites, and the chemistry between them is electric.
What struck me most was how Iris stood out as a robust and relatable female protagonist, completely secure in who she is. And Hector, his grumpiness only adds to his charm as he finds himself melting for Iris in the most touching ways. Let’s not forget Sarge, the incredible K9 companion, who adds warmth and loyalty to the story.
While the romance between Iris and Hector is beautifully portrayed, it’s the rich layers of crime scene investigation and suspense that truly elevate this novel. The blend of mystery and thriller elements creates a gripping tension that had me hooked throughout.
If you cherish stories that weave together love and suspense, this book is an absolute must-read. It’s the inaugural entry in the new series, Cupid Meets Crime Scene, and I can’t wait to dive into the next installment. This one is out now, so be sure not to miss it!
January 9, 2026
Absolutely PERFECT!! Love, love, loved it!!
A wild weather event, grumpy x sunshine forced proximity, a wildfire, all topped off with a mystery...? YES!!
🥰❤️📖🔥🚩🔥📖❤️🥰
On assignment and covering an approaching storm that warrants a RED FLAG WARNING, meteorologist Iris O'Hara (FMC) then discovers the body of a missing woman that's tied to a heated murder case...
Enter Hector Madeira (MMC), a brooding military vet and park ranger who is the walking definition of RED FLAG WARNING himself...
🥰❤️📖🔥🚩🔥📖❤️🥰
While trying to put the pieces of the mystery together, a wildfire then breaks out in the national park where both Iris is on assignment and where Hector is stationed...sparks soon fly as the two are forced into proximity and secrets then ignite...
...as flames scorch through the park and the heat of desire burns between them, something else looms...
A killer bent on revenge and targeting his next victims...
A truly amazing blend of drama, suspense, romance, banter, and spice; an absolute page-turner from beginning to end!!
Special thanks to Allison Bettes for this incredible opportunity and an amazing read...
Definitely recommend, be sure to check out "Red Flag Warning"!!
🥰❤️📖🔥🚩🔥📖❤️🥰
A wild weather event, grumpy x sunshine forced proximity, a wildfire, all topped off with a mystery...? YES!!
🥰❤️📖🔥🚩🔥📖❤️🥰
On assignment and covering an approaching storm that warrants a RED FLAG WARNING, meteorologist Iris O'Hara (FMC) then discovers the body of a missing woman that's tied to a heated murder case...
Enter Hector Madeira (MMC), a brooding military vet and park ranger who is the walking definition of RED FLAG WARNING himself...
🥰❤️📖🔥🚩🔥📖❤️🥰
While trying to put the pieces of the mystery together, a wildfire then breaks out in the national park where both Iris is on assignment and where Hector is stationed...sparks soon fly as the two are forced into proximity and secrets then ignite...
...as flames scorch through the park and the heat of desire burns between them, something else looms...
A killer bent on revenge and targeting his next victims...
A truly amazing blend of drama, suspense, romance, banter, and spice; an absolute page-turner from beginning to end!!
Special thanks to Allison Bettes for this incredible opportunity and an amazing read...
Definitely recommend, be sure to check out "Red Flag Warning"!!
🥰❤️📖🔥🚩🔥📖❤️🥰
January 6, 2026
Should I be in bed right now? Yes, but I had to finish it!
Such an easy read, will update tomorrow after I get some sleep
----
Update:
Absolutely was drawn in by the murder mystery and the chemistry between Iris and Hector 🫠
Iris is a meteorologist, Hector is a former military and LVPD but now working at Echo National Park as a ranger. When Iris is filming at Echo National Park she discovers a skull, Hector is immediately taken with her during this fiasco but calls himself a red flag so he tries to be as unappealing to her as possible. Fate (and Nancy) seems to keep throwing them together, which they really don't seem to mind since they are very much attracted to one another. It helps that Hector has a chocolate lab named Sarge a retired police K-9 that easily gets distracted by food.
The skull that Iris found sets in motion a series of unexplained events that has Hector becoming extra protective over her. I am a sucker for a good murder mystery with romance so this was perfect for me to literally sit on the couch and binge.
I cannot wait to continue this series with Iris's other sister's stories!
Such an easy read, will update tomorrow after I get some sleep
----
Update:
Absolutely was drawn in by the murder mystery and the chemistry between Iris and Hector 🫠
Iris is a meteorologist, Hector is a former military and LVPD but now working at Echo National Park as a ranger. When Iris is filming at Echo National Park she discovers a skull, Hector is immediately taken with her during this fiasco but calls himself a red flag so he tries to be as unappealing to her as possible. Fate (and Nancy) seems to keep throwing them together, which they really don't seem to mind since they are very much attracted to one another. It helps that Hector has a chocolate lab named Sarge a retired police K-9 that easily gets distracted by food.
The skull that Iris found sets in motion a series of unexplained events that has Hector becoming extra protective over her. I am a sucker for a good murder mystery with romance so this was perfect for me to literally sit on the couch and binge.
I cannot wait to continue this series with Iris's other sister's stories!
December 18, 2025
This is Hector and Iris’s love story. It takes place in the beautiful Nevada Desert primarily at a National Park. I thought the setting was interesting and I enjoyed the little facts about weather and nature sprinkled in that made me feel like I was learning something even while reading a romance book.
Iris is a Meteorologist and Hector is a Park Ranger. They ended up working together after Iris literally stumbled upon a dead body in The National Park where he works. The chemistry between these two is off the charts. I liked how Iris is a strong fmc who knows what she wants and goes for it. Hector is the strong broody type who finds his softer side with the love of a good woman. Then there’s Sarge. The best K9 best friend there is. I love books with a cute dog. Let’s not forget about the card game loving neighbor and hilarious coworkers who bring comic relief when things get heavy.
If you like strong characters, learning a little something even when reading for enjoyment, mystery, suspense, romance, spice, fun neighbors and coworkers, cute dogs and a HEA you should give this book a try.
Iris is a Meteorologist and Hector is a Park Ranger. They ended up working together after Iris literally stumbled upon a dead body in The National Park where he works. The chemistry between these two is off the charts. I liked how Iris is a strong fmc who knows what she wants and goes for it. Hector is the strong broody type who finds his softer side with the love of a good woman. Then there’s Sarge. The best K9 best friend there is. I love books with a cute dog. Let’s not forget about the card game loving neighbor and hilarious coworkers who bring comic relief when things get heavy.
If you like strong characters, learning a little something even when reading for enjoyment, mystery, suspense, romance, spice, fun neighbors and coworkers, cute dogs and a HEA you should give this book a try.
January 1, 2026
Iris is a meteorologist and when she is out on assignment, she is at a nearby lake. Due to a storm coming, there is a red flag warning and Iris is covering it. When she is at the lake, she trips and falls back only to discover that she tripped on a skull. What is going on and whose skull is it?
Hector, a park ranger and military veteran, helps Iris out, but Iris is definitely getting some cold vibes from him. She thinks Hector is so good looking, but just cannot read him and feels like he really doesn’t like her. Hector helps Iris out with this trauma, etc.
Will Hector eventually warm up to Iris? Whose skull was discovered at the lake and what actually happened?
I thought this was an interesting read. I couldn’t put this book down and I really enjoyed the interaction between Iris and Hector. The mystery behind the skull was interesting as well! BTW, there were some spicy scenes, which could be skimmed through or skipped if you aren’t into spice.
Hector, a park ranger and military veteran, helps Iris out, but Iris is definitely getting some cold vibes from him. She thinks Hector is so good looking, but just cannot read him and feels like he really doesn’t like her. Hector helps Iris out with this trauma, etc.
Will Hector eventually warm up to Iris? Whose skull was discovered at the lake and what actually happened?
I thought this was an interesting read. I couldn’t put this book down and I really enjoyed the interaction between Iris and Hector. The mystery behind the skull was interesting as well! BTW, there were some spicy scenes, which could be skimmed through or skipped if you aren’t into spice.
January 4, 2026
Iris + Hector
This delicious contemporary small town mystery romance is just chef's kiss. The characters were well developed, had layers AND there are so many things going on in Red Flag Warning. I will say that the focus in the beginning is Iris' career and the as the book trucks on it is only mentioned here and there.
The focus ends up being the friendship/relationship developing between Hector and Iris.
Beyond the the layers of Iris and Hector's blossoming friendship. Someone is after her.. and there is this murder mystery also going on.. I loved every bit of this book. I also loved not figuring out who the perp was until much later. There was little to no indication of who it was until much much later.
Thank you to The Author Agency and the author for an advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
This delicious contemporary small town mystery romance is just chef's kiss. The characters were well developed, had layers AND there are so many things going on in Red Flag Warning. I will say that the focus in the beginning is Iris' career and the as the book trucks on it is only mentioned here and there.
The focus ends up being the friendship/relationship developing between Hector and Iris.
Beyond the the layers of Iris and Hector's blossoming friendship. Someone is after her.. and there is this murder mystery also going on.. I loved every bit of this book. I also loved not figuring out who the perp was until much later. There was little to no indication of who it was until much much later.
Thank you to The Author Agency and the author for an advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
January 12, 2026
✨Tropes✨
🔥Romantic Suspense
🔥Age Gap
🔥Grumpy/Sunshine
🔥Park Ranger MMC
🔥Meteorologist FMC
🔥Forced Proximity
🔥He Washes Her Hair
🔥ASL Rep
🔥Plus size FMC
🔥K-9 Trainee Reject
🌶️🌶️🌶️⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I have to admit that I love red flags🚩. Fictional ones. Did I ignore my family and devour this in one afternoon? Yes. Do I feel guilty? No. Am I the red flag? This read had everything I love. A murder mystery with a twist that I honestly didn't see coming. Intense chemistry between the main characters that had me waiting breathlessly for "the moment". Spicy scenes that I thought might melt my Kindle 🥵. The characters were all wonderful. I loved Iris. She's a plus size FMC who won't let anyone steal her sunshine. Not even a skull she trips over. Hector is my type: Tall, broody and thinks he's not good enough but is totally the alpha hero. You stay you, my grumpy flannel-wearing ranger daddy. This book combines great banter with a page turning plot to create a five star beginning to a new favorite series for me.
🔥Romantic Suspense
🔥Age Gap
🔥Grumpy/Sunshine
🔥Park Ranger MMC
🔥Meteorologist FMC
🔥Forced Proximity
🔥He Washes Her Hair
🔥ASL Rep
🔥Plus size FMC
🔥K-9 Trainee Reject
🌶️🌶️🌶️⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I have to admit that I love red flags🚩. Fictional ones. Did I ignore my family and devour this in one afternoon? Yes. Do I feel guilty? No. Am I the red flag? This read had everything I love. A murder mystery with a twist that I honestly didn't see coming. Intense chemistry between the main characters that had me waiting breathlessly for "the moment". Spicy scenes that I thought might melt my Kindle 🥵. The characters were all wonderful. I loved Iris. She's a plus size FMC who won't let anyone steal her sunshine. Not even a skull she trips over. Hector is my type: Tall, broody and thinks he's not good enough but is totally the alpha hero. You stay you, my grumpy flannel-wearing ranger daddy. This book combines great banter with a page turning plot to create a five star beginning to a new favorite series for me.
December 30, 2025
Thanks to @bookedwiththeemilys @authorallisonbettes for the #gifted copy of this book.
I could not put this one down. As a certified science nerd myself, I absolutely loved the nerdy meteorology and STEM tidbits woven throughout the story. It added so much personality and authenticity to Iris as a FMC. 🌦️🧪
This book delivers on tension in all the best ways: grumpy/sunshine chemistry, forced proximity in the middle of a literal wildfire, and a romance that simmers while danger closes in. And the twist? Fully didn’t see it coming, which instantly bumps a book up for me.
Iris is smart, capable, and refreshingly STEM-forward, while Hector is the broody, flannel-wearing park ranger you know you shouldn’t fall for… but absolutely will. The suspense kept me turning pages just as fast as the romance did, and the wildfire setting added a constant edge that made everything feel urgent and immersive.
I already know this is a series I’ll be following — I cannot wait for the rest of this series to come out. 🔥📚
If you love romance with smart heroines, high-stakes tension, and a little danger mixed in with your swoon — this one’s for you.
🔥🌲💙
Tropes:
Grumpy/Sunshine • Age Gap • STEMinist • Man in Uniform • Forced Proximity • Redemption
I could not put this one down. As a certified science nerd myself, I absolutely loved the nerdy meteorology and STEM tidbits woven throughout the story. It added so much personality and authenticity to Iris as a FMC. 🌦️🧪
This book delivers on tension in all the best ways: grumpy/sunshine chemistry, forced proximity in the middle of a literal wildfire, and a romance that simmers while danger closes in. And the twist? Fully didn’t see it coming, which instantly bumps a book up for me.
Iris is smart, capable, and refreshingly STEM-forward, while Hector is the broody, flannel-wearing park ranger you know you shouldn’t fall for… but absolutely will. The suspense kept me turning pages just as fast as the romance did, and the wildfire setting added a constant edge that made everything feel urgent and immersive.
I already know this is a series I’ll be following — I cannot wait for the rest of this series to come out. 🔥📚
If you love romance with smart heroines, high-stakes tension, and a little danger mixed in with your swoon — this one’s for you.
🔥🌲💙
Tropes:
Grumpy/Sunshine • Age Gap • STEMinist • Man in Uniform • Forced Proximity • Redemption
January 9, 2026
3.5 ⭐️
I was lucky enough to receive this as an eARC from the author. This book is outside of my usual genre, but I had a great time reading it and did not want to put it down! It was a very quick read and I really enjoyed the science facts and glimpse into the National Weather Service. I did take off some stars for the second half of the book feeling rushed. I almost would have liked the book to be a little longer in the second half for a bit more suspense, but as someone relatively new to the genre, I’m not sure if it would have had the opposite effect. I did enjoy Iris and Hector and their romance - I’m looking forward to the other books in the series!
I was lucky enough to receive this as an eARC from the author. This book is outside of my usual genre, but I had a great time reading it and did not want to put it down! It was a very quick read and I really enjoyed the science facts and glimpse into the National Weather Service. I did take off some stars for the second half of the book feeling rushed. I almost would have liked the book to be a little longer in the second half for a bit more suspense, but as someone relatively new to the genre, I’m not sure if it would have had the opposite effect. I did enjoy Iris and Hector and their romance - I’m looking forward to the other books in the series!
January 9, 2026
If there is one thing Allison Bettes knows how to do and does EXTREMELY WELL is write a romantic suspense! And once again, she left me completely surprised!
You first meet Iris and Hector at the end of the Ranger Shield Security series, but don’t worry! You can start right here with no problems!
Iris and Hector (and Sarge, of course) make the perfect couple! Iris is the sunshine to Hector’s grumpy, and we all know I am a sucker for that trope 😂 And the protective side of Hector? Hehe ok! 😋
If you are wanting to start 2026 off with a bang, you should definitely start here!
You will love Red Flag Warning if you love
🚩 Grumpy x Sunshine
🚩 Forced Proximity
🚩 STEMinist
🚩 Age Gap
🚩 Redemption
You first meet Iris and Hector at the end of the Ranger Shield Security series, but don’t worry! You can start right here with no problems!
Iris and Hector (and Sarge, of course) make the perfect couple! Iris is the sunshine to Hector’s grumpy, and we all know I am a sucker for that trope 😂 And the protective side of Hector? Hehe ok! 😋
If you are wanting to start 2026 off with a bang, you should definitely start here!
You will love Red Flag Warning if you love
🚩 Grumpy x Sunshine
🚩 Forced Proximity
🚩 STEMinist
🚩 Age Gap
🚩 Redemption
January 9, 2026
This was my first book from this Allison, and what a fun ride it was!
Iris is a meteorologist who stumbles upon the body of a missing woman, pulling Hector, the park ranger into the investigation. His permanent scowl and sharp attitude do not scare Iris one bit, though they do stand in the way of him finding true happiness in his life.
Working alongside Iris stirs up feelings Hector never allows himself to have. But with a killer on the loose and the very real threat of losing Iris to a raging wildfire, will he finally take a chance on love?
This story is a fun, suspenseful, and spicy adventure that kept me hooked from start to finish.
Iris is a meteorologist who stumbles upon the body of a missing woman, pulling Hector, the park ranger into the investigation. His permanent scowl and sharp attitude do not scare Iris one bit, though they do stand in the way of him finding true happiness in his life.
Working alongside Iris stirs up feelings Hector never allows himself to have. But with a killer on the loose and the very real threat of losing Iris to a raging wildfire, will he finally take a chance on love?
This story is a fun, suspenseful, and spicy adventure that kept me hooked from start to finish.
January 12, 2026
✨ARC REVIEW✨ Grab it in KU!
Thank you so much Allison Bettes and The Author Agency for the ARC opportunity!🤍
Rating: ★★★★☆
Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️/5
Tropes: Age Gap, Man in Uniform, Redemption, Steminist, Forced Proximity
I found myself rooting for Iris and Hector almost immediately once their connection started. I loved their grumpy park ranger x sunshine weather reporter dynamic, Hector’s grumpy energy had my interest piqued right away, and the pacing felt really solid from start to finish.
I especially loved his protective nature and the inclusion of his military/law enforcement background. It added so much depth to his character. And of course, shoutout to K9 Sarge… I’ll always have a soft spot for a good animal companion in a book.
And lastly, I must say i loved the added suspense to the romance plot, it was my kind of read like that and i may of found a new sub genre I enjoy
Thank you so much Allison Bettes and The Author Agency for the ARC opportunity!🤍
Rating: ★★★★☆
Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️/5
Tropes: Age Gap, Man in Uniform, Redemption, Steminist, Forced Proximity
I found myself rooting for Iris and Hector almost immediately once their connection started. I loved their grumpy park ranger x sunshine weather reporter dynamic, Hector’s grumpy energy had my interest piqued right away, and the pacing felt really solid from start to finish.
I especially loved his protective nature and the inclusion of his military/law enforcement background. It added so much depth to his character. And of course, shoutout to K9 Sarge… I’ll always have a soft spot for a good animal companion in a book.
And lastly, I must say i loved the added suspense to the romance plot, it was my kind of read like that and i may of found a new sub genre I enjoy
January 14, 2026
Although, suspense can sometimes be a bit much for my anxious nature, I really liked this book - more than I expected! As a primarily modern romance/rom-com reader, I thought the love story was great. I know to expect some conflict, and I think it fit well into the storyline. I was engaged for the whole book, finished in less than 24 hrs. (did sacrifice some sleep hours 🤷🏻♀️) I'm trying to read more diverse stories and I know the author will release another book in this series this year so I may have to grab that one.
for my romance readers... level of spice? 3. amount of spice in overall book? maybe 2/2.5
for my romance readers... level of spice? 3. amount of spice in overall book? maybe 2/2.5
January 9, 2026
Thank you to The Author Agency for this ARC read!
This was such a fun read! It was cute, humorous, witty, sexy and suspenseful from start to finish! I truly enjoyed this book! The writing was beautifully written and kept you captive within the plot. I found the crime portion of the plot rather enticing and just perfectly suspenseful. Iris and Hector were just so cute together! Their dynamic was absolute perfection!
This was such a fun read! It was cute, humorous, witty, sexy and suspenseful from start to finish! I truly enjoyed this book! The writing was beautifully written and kept you captive within the plot. I found the crime portion of the plot rather enticing and just perfectly suspenseful. Iris and Hector were just so cute together! Their dynamic was absolute perfection!
January 9, 2026
Thoughts - Red Flag Warning grabbed me from page one and refused to let go! The mixture of suspense and sass kept me absorbed. Hector and Iris are smart and snarky and complement each other so well. They both fell hard and fast for each other and it is such a perfect and wholesome, cozy love. All in the midst of a (lighthearted) serial killer investigation! This book has just the right amount of heart and humor and and is a fun, fast read!
January 12, 2026
A fun read, filled with a good grumpy/sunshine characters. An easy read to get lost in, the suspense/mystery keeps the story moving forward while Hector is doing everything possible to stay away from Iris. I love that Iris is a meteorologist and Hector is a Park Ranger.
The chemistry is there between Iris and Hector, but there is a history. Will Hector be the protector again?
I almost had this book read in one evening, but sleep won out. I am looking forward to more in this series.
Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
The chemistry is there between Iris and Hector, but there is a history. Will Hector be the protector again?
I almost had this book read in one evening, but sleep won out. I am looking forward to more in this series.
Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
January 12, 2026
This was a fun read. It was packed with all kinds of good stuff- found family, forced proximity, age gap, grumpy x sunshine, suspense, spice… Together it made me not want to put the book down, I read in the same day I started it. Hector, our man in uniform mmc, and Iris, our meteorologist fmc, were a sexy and swoony couple. Their jobs and an unfortunate event bring them back into each other’s orbit and from there I was hooked. This felt like a fast read with how it was written and was a great balance of sweet, spicy and suspenseful!
January 13, 2026
While this is not my typical genre to read, I have to say that I enjoyed this book. I enjoyed Iris's internal dialogue, and the fun secondary characters like Iris's neighbor. I won't elaborate because I don't want to spoil the story, but the culmination of the crime story had my heart beating and I found myself rushing reading it so that I could (hopefully) find out everyone was okay and the murderer got caught. Excited for the rest of the books in the series!
January 5, 2026
I adored this book so much!! I completely fell in love with Hector and Iris! I love how there was suspense in this book, but also really good spice and banter! I am not typically one to highlight things in my books, but I laughed out loud so many times that I just had to so I can go back and laugh again! Make sure to add this book to your TBR immediately because you will not be disappointed!
January 12, 2026
A romance develops between a popular meteorologist and a grumpy park ranger after an unexpected investigation of a found body brings them together…but also brings danger to their budding relationship. I enjoyed the romance and the spice between Iris and Hector—she brought out the best in him and he was a fierce protector. The suspense aspect added intriguing layers to the plot and kept me invested too. I’m looking forward to the mystique in the next installment of the Cupid Meets Crime Scene series.
Thanks to the author and Booked with the Emilys for the eARC.
Thanks to the author and Booked with the Emilys for the eARC.
January 11, 2026
This quick reads pits a grumpy, protective park Ranger with a military/police background, Hector, with a sweet, funny, clever meteorologist, Iris and the sparks definitely fly! Add in murder, a beautiful labradorite, an enthusiastic family who live both these lovely people, and you have a fun, entertaining read which delivers a very romantic conclusion! 💖💖💖💖
Review of advance copy received from Author
It was such a fun read! I was addicted to Iris and Hectors' story, and the mystery throughout was intriguing!! I'm so excited to read the second book!
December 24, 2025
3.5 stars rounded up. i received this books as an arc and i knew it was going to be perfect for me. cupid meets crime scene?! a NWS meteorologist?! absolutely. the story was cute and the characters were very likable but i did feel like things were very rushed in terms of both the romance and crime. overall pretty good!
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