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Midnight Dreams: A Single Dad Firefighter Small Town Romance
My fake date with the grumpy single-dad firefighter turns dangerously real when sparks fly.
He’s a grumpy, single-dad firefighter who’s vying for a promotion to fire chief. I’m the woman who shows up at the fire house in a curve-hugging red dress and a box of baked goods. After one fake date, we both get what we want… or so we think.
We play our parts a little too well. So well, in fact, that his boss insists we keep up the charade. Kisses linger far longer than they should, and every touch leaves me wanting more.
Then there’s his little girl—sweet, bright, and determined to wedge her way straight into my heart. Suddenly, pretending isn’t just about fooling the town. It’s about protecting feelings that are starting to feel dangerously real.
Because the more we fake it, the harder it is to remember what’s pretend…and when desire ignites, the line between make-believe and forever goes up in flames.
He’s a grumpy, single-dad firefighter who’s vying for a promotion to fire chief. I’m the woman who shows up at the fire house in a curve-hugging red dress and a box of baked goods. After one fake date, we both get what we want… or so we think.
We play our parts a little too well. So well, in fact, that his boss insists we keep up the charade. Kisses linger far longer than they should, and every touch leaves me wanting more.
Then there’s his little girl—sweet, bright, and determined to wedge her way straight into my heart. Suddenly, pretending isn’t just about fooling the town. It’s about protecting feelings that are starting to feel dangerously real.
Because the more we fake it, the harder it is to remember what’s pretend…and when desire ignites, the line between make-believe and forever goes up in flames.
270 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 27, 2026
5 people are currently reading
8 people want to read
About the author
Lea Coll
97 books894 followersLea Coll is a USA Today bestselling author who writes sweet and sexy happily ever afters. She worked as a trial attorney for over ten years. Now she stays home with her three children, plotting stories while fetching snacks and running them back and forth to activities. She enjoys the freedom of writing romance after years of legal writing.
She grew up in a small town in Pennsylvania and currently resides in Maryland with her family.
For new releases, sneak peaks, and updates check out Lea's website and sign up for my newsletter.
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Lea Coll ist eine Bestsellerautorin von sexy Liebesromanen mit Happy-End-Garantie. Sie arbeitete über zehn Jahre lang als Prozessanwältin. Inzwischen lebt sie mit ihrer Familie in den USA und genießt nach Jahren als Juristin die Freiheit, sich völlig dem Schreiben widmen zu können. Lea Colls prickelnde Geschichten entstehen, während sie sich um die Aktivitäten ihrer drei Kinder und deren Snacks kümmert.
Wenn du mehr über mich und meine Bücher erfahren möchtest, besuche mich auf meiner Website: https://www.leacoll.com/deutsch.
She grew up in a small town in Pennsylvania and currently resides in Maryland with her family.
For new releases, sneak peaks, and updates check out Lea's website and sign up for my newsletter.
Shop: https://leacollbooks.com
Website: https://www.leacoll.com
Newsletter: https://lea-coll.ck.page/d9b211dbe6
Join my VIP group: http://bit.ly/LeasReadersGroup
And follow me everywhere else:
Facebook: http://bit.ly/LeaColl
Bookbub: http://bit.ly/LeaCollBookbub
Instagram: http://bit.ly/LeaCollIstagram
Bloggers sign up here for ARCs: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1onfs...
Melde dich für meinen Newsletter an und erhalte eine kostenlose Novelle: https://bookfunnel.leacoll.com/3n5f1y....
Lea Coll ist eine Bestsellerautorin von sexy Liebesromanen mit Happy-End-Garantie. Sie arbeitete über zehn Jahre lang als Prozessanwältin. Inzwischen lebt sie mit ihrer Familie in den USA und genießt nach Jahren als Juristin die Freiheit, sich völlig dem Schreiben widmen zu können. Lea Colls prickelnde Geschichten entstehen, während sie sich um die Aktivitäten ihrer drei Kinder und deren Snacks kümmert.
Wenn du mehr über mich und meine Bücher erfahren möchtest, besuche mich auf meiner Website: https://www.leacoll.com/deutsch.
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January 25, 2026Book Live on my shop -- > https://www.leacollbooks.com/products...
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February 4, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Midnight Dreams is a classic fake-dating, grumpy single-dad romance that leans fully into its tropes—and honestly, that’s part of the charm. From the very first setup, it’s clear this story knows exactly what it wants to be: cozy, emotional, a little steamy, and deeply character-driven. If you’re a fan of firefighter romances, small-town vibes, and forced proximity that slowly melts a guarded hero, this one checks all the boxes.
The hero is the definition of grumpy-but-soft-on-the-inside. As a single dad firefighter aiming for a promotion, his life is built around responsibility, routine, and keeping his emotions tightly locked down. Enter the heroine, whose warmth, confidence, and genuine kindness disrupt that carefully controlled world in the best way. Their fake-dating arrangement starts off as mutually beneficial, but the transition from “pretend” to “oh no, these feelings are very real” is handled smoothly and believably.
One of the strongest elements of this book is the emotional grounding provided by the hero’s daughter. She’s not just a background prop to make the hero more likable—she’s fully present in the story and adds real depth to the relationship dynamics. Watching the heroine form a bond with her is heart-melting, and it raises the stakes in a way that makes the romance feel more meaningful. Suddenly, this isn’t just about attraction—it’s about trust, vulnerability, and the possibility of building something lasting.
The chemistry between the main characters is solid throughout, with plenty of tension, lingering touches, and moments where the lines blur just enough to keep things deliciously complicated. The romance builds at a satisfying pace, and while the story is undeniably trope-forward, it never feels lazy. Instead, it feels comforting—like settling into a familiar romance formula that’s executed with care and emotional sincerity.
That said, this book won’t surprise you if you’ve read a lot of contemporary romance. Some plot beats are predictable, and if you’re looking for high drama or major twists, this may feel a little safe. But for readers who enjoy character-focused storytelling, found-family elements, and a strong emotional payoff, that predictability works in the book’s favor rather than against it.
Overall, Midnight Dreams is a warm, engaging romance that blends sweetness, steam, and heartfelt moments into a satisfying read. It’s perfect for when you’re in the mood for a grumpy hero who falls hard, a heroine with quiet strength, and a love story that proves sometimes the best things start out as make-believe. I’d happily recommend this to fans of single-dad romances and small-town firefighter stories—and I’d definitely read more from this author.
Midnight Dreams is a classic fake-dating, grumpy single-dad romance that leans fully into its tropes—and honestly, that’s part of the charm. From the very first setup, it’s clear this story knows exactly what it wants to be: cozy, emotional, a little steamy, and deeply character-driven. If you’re a fan of firefighter romances, small-town vibes, and forced proximity that slowly melts a guarded hero, this one checks all the boxes.
The hero is the definition of grumpy-but-soft-on-the-inside. As a single dad firefighter aiming for a promotion, his life is built around responsibility, routine, and keeping his emotions tightly locked down. Enter the heroine, whose warmth, confidence, and genuine kindness disrupt that carefully controlled world in the best way. Their fake-dating arrangement starts off as mutually beneficial, but the transition from “pretend” to “oh no, these feelings are very real” is handled smoothly and believably.
One of the strongest elements of this book is the emotional grounding provided by the hero’s daughter. She’s not just a background prop to make the hero more likable—she’s fully present in the story and adds real depth to the relationship dynamics. Watching the heroine form a bond with her is heart-melting, and it raises the stakes in a way that makes the romance feel more meaningful. Suddenly, this isn’t just about attraction—it’s about trust, vulnerability, and the possibility of building something lasting.
The chemistry between the main characters is solid throughout, with plenty of tension, lingering touches, and moments where the lines blur just enough to keep things deliciously complicated. The romance builds at a satisfying pace, and while the story is undeniably trope-forward, it never feels lazy. Instead, it feels comforting—like settling into a familiar romance formula that’s executed with care and emotional sincerity.
That said, this book won’t surprise you if you’ve read a lot of contemporary romance. Some plot beats are predictable, and if you’re looking for high drama or major twists, this may feel a little safe. But for readers who enjoy character-focused storytelling, found-family elements, and a strong emotional payoff, that predictability works in the book’s favor rather than against it.
Overall, Midnight Dreams is a warm, engaging romance that blends sweetness, steam, and heartfelt moments into a satisfying read. It’s perfect for when you’re in the mood for a grumpy hero who falls hard, a heroine with quiet strength, and a love story that proves sometimes the best things start out as make-believe. I’d happily recommend this to fans of single-dad romances and small-town firefighter stories—and I’d definitely read more from this author.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 1, 2026
Eve has always wanted to be a town event coordinator to build community and find ways to help those in need. When she and her sister purchase Christmas Town, her dream has come true. She works tirelessly to make their little resort town successful, juggling event planning and execution, a variety of personalities and the day-to-day details required to help all of her residents.
Determined to stage a holiday parade, Eve goes to the local firehouse to ask the fire chief to participate in the parade with some of his team and his trucks. Eve makes a deal to host the fire house's annual holiday party in exchange. Maddox, the retiring chief's soon to be replacement is a bit more cautious in committing to the event. Having lost his wife to illness a few years previously, he comes across as perpetually gruff and grumpy. Raising his pre-teen daughter and his job take all of his time and he's not quite ready to let go of his wife's memory. The chief pushes Maddox to escort Eve to the party and to work on being less grumpy and friendlier so that he can be seen as the best choice for the fire chief position. What starts as a fake dating relationship quickly evolves into an intense physical relationship in which both Maddox and Eve come to the realization that they both want more.
Maddox needs to move beyond his pain and grief to let Eve in. He takes this seriously - he's finally ready to find a way to move forward and find happiness again after the loss of his wife. Eve needs to learn to let others in and how to delegate some of her responsibilities. She takes too much on her own shoulders in an attempt to make the resort successful and relieve others' stress. She struggles with taking time to find happiness for herself. She is a very relatable character for working women everywhere. Together Maddox and Eve have great chemistry and bring out the best in each other. This modern romance read
Four stars for this modern small-town romance read.
Determined to stage a holiday parade, Eve goes to the local firehouse to ask the fire chief to participate in the parade with some of his team and his trucks. Eve makes a deal to host the fire house's annual holiday party in exchange. Maddox, the retiring chief's soon to be replacement is a bit more cautious in committing to the event. Having lost his wife to illness a few years previously, he comes across as perpetually gruff and grumpy. Raising his pre-teen daughter and his job take all of his time and he's not quite ready to let go of his wife's memory. The chief pushes Maddox to escort Eve to the party and to work on being less grumpy and friendlier so that he can be seen as the best choice for the fire chief position. What starts as a fake dating relationship quickly evolves into an intense physical relationship in which both Maddox and Eve come to the realization that they both want more.
Maddox needs to move beyond his pain and grief to let Eve in. He takes this seriously - he's finally ready to find a way to move forward and find happiness again after the loss of his wife. Eve needs to learn to let others in and how to delegate some of her responsibilities. She takes too much on her own shoulders in an attempt to make the resort successful and relieve others' stress. She struggles with taking time to find happiness for herself. She is a very relatable character for working women everywhere. Together Maddox and Eve have great chemistry and bring out the best in each other. This modern romance read
Four stars for this modern small-town romance read.
February 1, 2026
Fake dating brings real feelings for Eve, an event planner and Maddox, a firefighter and single dad of an adorable little girl. It was only supposed to be one date, but his boss insists that they continue to pretend. The sparks and the heat between them are obvious to anyone seeing them together. They are also getting harder for Eve and Maddox to deny and ignore. The inevitable combustion takes place, but are these two ready to commit to something real?
Maddox grumpy and growly attitude are why he found himself fake dating Eve in the first place. The retiring Fire Chief wants his perspective replacement, Maddox, to appear to be more approachable and friendly and all but forced him to go on this date with Eve. He closed his heart and erected guards around it after his wife died. Slowly but surely the bright, and beautiful Eve works her way under those guards and makes him want something he is not sure he is ready for or deserves.
Eve tells herself she is too busy for a personal relationship, that the resort and Christmas town need her full attention. She and her sisters are working hard to revive the resort and make it profitable. She has become a workaholic and often overworks herself into near exhaustion. In truth, Eve is just as scared and wary of love as Maddox. Father and daughter soon find a place in her heart, but can she find a way to balance her personal and professional life without jeopardizing one or both?
Thank goodness these two have people around them to advise, support and encouragement them toward each other. This charming book is well worth reading and has my recommendation.
Maddox grumpy and growly attitude are why he found himself fake dating Eve in the first place. The retiring Fire Chief wants his perspective replacement, Maddox, to appear to be more approachable and friendly and all but forced him to go on this date with Eve. He closed his heart and erected guards around it after his wife died. Slowly but surely the bright, and beautiful Eve works her way under those guards and makes him want something he is not sure he is ready for or deserves.
Eve tells herself she is too busy for a personal relationship, that the resort and Christmas town need her full attention. She and her sisters are working hard to revive the resort and make it profitable. She has become a workaholic and often overworks herself into near exhaustion. In truth, Eve is just as scared and wary of love as Maddox. Father and daughter soon find a place in her heart, but can she find a way to balance her personal and professional life without jeopardizing one or both?
Thank goodness these two have people around them to advise, support and encouragement them toward each other. This charming book is well worth reading and has my recommendation.
January 31, 2026
Eve and Maddox have a shaky first meeting. She goes to the firehouse with baked goods to "bribe" the fire chief into letting the fire trucks be in the Christmas Town parade. Maddox isn't thrilled with the idea as the next in line to be fire chief but the current one is. The fire chief talks Eve into having the holiday dance at the Christmas Town hall. The fire chief tells Maddox that if he wants to be fire chief, he needs to be more friendly and put himself out there. He suggests that Eve be his date to the holiday dance and to act like a couple. It's been two years since Maddox's wife died and he's been delaying dating because of that and his eleven year old daughter, Sophia. Sophia meets Eve and they get along really well. Sophia surprises Maddox by encouraging him to date Eve. As they pretend to date, things start to become real. But things hit a snag when Eve's responsibilities with the town interfere with some of the couple's plans. Will Eve be able to keep her town responsibilities separate from her personal life? Can the three of them become a real family? I like this series. This book basically happens at the same time as the first book. But you won't miss out on anything if you haven't read the first book because things are explained. I'm looking forward to the next book.
February 8, 2026
When Eve Palmer and her sister Natasha lost their parents, they invested in the purchase of Christmas Town. They looked forward to community and the sense of belonging. Eve manages the stores, while Natasha manages the Mistletoe Inn. Eve has big plans for the Christmas holiday and hopes to convince the local fire station to participate in the parade. Firefighter Maddox Knight is not in favor of the station being a part of the parade, but is not only overruled by the chief, but enlisted to assist Eve in whatever she needs. He knows that he came across as disagreeable, but he is still dealing with the death of his wife and the care of his daughter, Sofia. In addition, he hopes to become the next chief. As he works closely with Eve, she believes that he will be an amazing chief and offers her full support. She makes everything seem easier, to him, and he begins to feel comfortable with her. As an attraction slowly flares between them, she begins to wonder if whatever is happening is real, for both of them. As he steps in to help her with the plans for the town (be Santa, no way, well maybe?) are his feelings, for her, more than just a physical attraction? Will he prove that he is fully invested in a future, with her? A lovely second romance in this hew series! I received an advance review copy at no cost and without obligation for an honest review. (paytonpuppy)
February 1, 2026
4.5
Midnight Dreams is a small-town romance that proves Lea Coll knows exactly how to deliver swoon, spark, and emotional payoff—every single time.
With the second book in The Sterling Brothers series, Lea Coll drops us straight into romance heaven with a single-dad firefighter hero and a story that hits all the right notes. Midnight Dreams is captivating from the start, blending small-town charm with undeniable chemistry and that signature Coll warmth that keeps you glued to the pages.
Maddox Sterling? Absolute catnip. A devoted dad and a firefighter is already an elite romance combo, and while he definitely tested my patience more than once, it only made his journey more satisfying. Enter Eve—sharp, strong, and the perfect match for Maddox’s stubborn streak. Their dynamic crackles with tension, push-and-pull, and heartfelt moments that make every interaction count.
This is the kind of romance that reminds you why single-dad stories hit so hard: vulnerability, responsibility, and love woven together with genuine emotion. Lea Coll delivers all the spark and romance we’ve come to expect—and then some.
Once again, she proves she’s a master of heartfelt, swoony storytelling. Midnight Dreams is exactly that: a dream of a romance you won’t want to wake up from. 💖🔥
Midnight Dreams is a small-town romance that proves Lea Coll knows exactly how to deliver swoon, spark, and emotional payoff—every single time.
With the second book in The Sterling Brothers series, Lea Coll drops us straight into romance heaven with a single-dad firefighter hero and a story that hits all the right notes. Midnight Dreams is captivating from the start, blending small-town charm with undeniable chemistry and that signature Coll warmth that keeps you glued to the pages.
Maddox Sterling? Absolute catnip. A devoted dad and a firefighter is already an elite romance combo, and while he definitely tested my patience more than once, it only made his journey more satisfying. Enter Eve—sharp, strong, and the perfect match for Maddox’s stubborn streak. Their dynamic crackles with tension, push-and-pull, and heartfelt moments that make every interaction count.
This is the kind of romance that reminds you why single-dad stories hit so hard: vulnerability, responsibility, and love woven together with genuine emotion. Lea Coll delivers all the spark and romance we’ve come to expect—and then some.
Once again, she proves she’s a master of heartfelt, swoony storytelling. Midnight Dreams is exactly that: a dream of a romance you won’t want to wake up from. 💖🔥
February 1, 2026
Midnight Dreams is single dad and widower Maddox and Christmas Towns event planner Eve’s fake to real holiday romance. It’s book two in The Sterling Brothers Series and it’s what holiday movies are made from. I loved this book and it didn’t take me long to become invested in the characters and their journey.
Eve meets Maddox when she takes some baked goods to the firehouse in hope of bribing the Fire Chief into letting his fire trucks lead her Christmas Parade. Maddox is not sure about it but his promotion could rest on this and the suggestion from his Chief that he takes Eve as his date to the upcoming holiday dance. Fake dating was not on the cards for Eve or Maddox but it seems it could be a win/win if they can only keep feelings out of the equation……….
So what happens when Eve spends time with Maddox and his adorable daughter Sophia.
This book filled me with happiness, I smiled and I swooned as I cheered this couple and Sophia on. I loved watching Maddox go from the grumpy single dad to a smiling family man of three. This is a beautifully written, entertaining read.
Eve meets Maddox when she takes some baked goods to the firehouse in hope of bribing the Fire Chief into letting his fire trucks lead her Christmas Parade. Maddox is not sure about it but his promotion could rest on this and the suggestion from his Chief that he takes Eve as his date to the upcoming holiday dance. Fake dating was not on the cards for Eve or Maddox but it seems it could be a win/win if they can only keep feelings out of the equation……….
So what happens when Eve spends time with Maddox and his adorable daughter Sophia.
This book filled me with happiness, I smiled and I swooned as I cheered this couple and Sophia on. I loved watching Maddox go from the grumpy single dad to a smiling family man of three. This is a beautifully written, entertaining read.
February 8, 2026
I was excited to see that Eve and Maddox's book was coming out since reading about them in Wildest Dreams. These two are so very different, yet at the same time are good for one another. Maddox is the king of grumpiness, with good reason, a single father and a firefighter. Eve is the town's event coordinator who seems to be carrying the world on her shoulders.
Their story is one of healing and unexpectedly finding love through a fake relationship. Right from the start, I knew there was going to be laughs and struggles, steamy scenes and happiness. Eve and Maddox help one another see that there is so much more to life than what they see in front of them or feel they deserve. She gets him to open his heart to love once again and he gets her to see she can fit being loved and loving someone into her life. Add in his sweet and lovable daughter, who instantly has a connection with Eve and this story will warm your heart.
Ms. Coll once again delivers a story that has you wanting to move to Christmas Town and be one of the town's folks.
Their story is one of healing and unexpectedly finding love through a fake relationship. Right from the start, I knew there was going to be laughs and struggles, steamy scenes and happiness. Eve and Maddox help one another see that there is so much more to life than what they see in front of them or feel they deserve. She gets him to open his heart to love once again and he gets her to see she can fit being loved and loving someone into her life. Add in his sweet and lovable daughter, who instantly has a connection with Eve and this story will warm your heart.
Ms. Coll once again delivers a story that has you wanting to move to Christmas Town and be one of the town's folks.
February 11, 2026
It's not easy trying to be a single parent and work and juggle everything. Always in the back of your mind if you're doing enough. Getting involved with someone is not something Maddox even considered happening.
But when he sees Eve in the chiefs office things start to change for him. When they agree to the fake relationship to help him with his promotion soon feelings started to feel real.
One thing about Eve is she is just starting out as town coordinator and she feels she must do everything herself and is having a hard time balancing work and her personal life. She wants to put Maddox and Sofie first but she doesn’t want to let anyone down.
Communication is key to all relationships. Compromise too. But when it is meant to be all will work out. It is not always easy but so worth it in the end. Maddox for one had to come to terms with allowing himself to move on and be happy. Eve needed to balance work and personal life. Together they can make anything happen so long as you’re willing to do whatever it takes.
But when he sees Eve in the chiefs office things start to change for him. When they agree to the fake relationship to help him with his promotion soon feelings started to feel real.
One thing about Eve is she is just starting out as town coordinator and she feels she must do everything herself and is having a hard time balancing work and her personal life. She wants to put Maddox and Sofie first but she doesn’t want to let anyone down.
Communication is key to all relationships. Compromise too. But when it is meant to be all will work out. It is not always easy but so worth it in the end. Maddox for one had to come to terms with allowing himself to move on and be happy. Eve needed to balance work and personal life. Together they can make anything happen so long as you’re willing to do whatever it takes.
January 28, 2026
Oh, Eve. She’s taking it all on and eventually, it’s going to be too much. Honestly, she handles it all incredibly well, but I’m thankful when the intervention comes, bearing coffee and demands to stop burning herself out. She deserves happiness and wants it, but she’s afraid that Maddox wants easy. Simple. A leg up. And nothing more.
Maddox is also going through it. He’s been underwater for a while and Eve is the last thing he thinks he needs. It’s a good thing he, too, gets a few interventions along the way. I mean, he loves hard, but he also sets things up to fail and adds tests that are unfair at best. I adore when he’s called on it, too, since his callousness at thinking that only his duties are true emergencies for a second there really made me think he was a living, breathing man!
This is an enjoyable tale of finding love when you least expect it, finding balance, and always enjoying the pancakes. I look forward to Angela’s time to shine next.
Maddox is also going through it. He’s been underwater for a while and Eve is the last thing he thinks he needs. It’s a good thing he, too, gets a few interventions along the way. I mean, he loves hard, but he also sets things up to fail and adds tests that are unfair at best. I adore when he’s called on it, too, since his callousness at thinking that only his duties are true emergencies for a second there really made me think he was a living, breathing man!
This is an enjoyable tale of finding love when you least expect it, finding balance, and always enjoying the pancakes. I look forward to Angela’s time to shine next.
February 5, 2026
Eve has always dream and she's finally living it with being the town's event coordinator. She has a lot on her plate but she feels like there's always more to be done. Like hosting the holiday parade with a added spice that are the towns firefighters. She's certain that she has it all in the bag, but what she didn't expect that the organization would bring her one hot as hell, grumpy single dad that will turn her world upside down.
Maddox wants to raise his daughter in peace and become the next fire chief. When he's pushed to attend the event Eve is planing and they need to pretend to be in love, he's not sure about anything. Spending time soon become more and both will have to fight their pasts in order to find happiness.
Together they’re sweet, spicy, supportive and exactly what the they needed and i for one couldn't have been happier for them to sail off into the sunset.
***Review copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads Blog***
Maddox wants to raise his daughter in peace and become the next fire chief. When he's pushed to attend the event Eve is planing and they need to pretend to be in love, he's not sure about anything. Spending time soon become more and both will have to fight their pasts in order to find happiness.
Together they’re sweet, spicy, supportive and exactly what the they needed and i for one couldn't have been happier for them to sail off into the sunset.
***Review copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads Blog***
February 7, 2026
Eve and Maddox are an unlikely pair, at least that's how it would seem. Except the people who know them best seem to know something they rest of us don't.
Or maybe it's the magic of a little town that celebrates Christmas all year round.
No matter these two are together whether it's fake or not. Maddox needs to look personable and Eve needs firetrucks in her parade.
These characters were really likeable even if at times I really wanted them to just communicate better. Their interactions and conversations gave the story a very warm quality, that I really enjoyed.
Single Dad and winning I thought Maddox's daughter was really great for the tween character, Sophia was sweet and caring even though her character had gone through a rough time.
Interaction with family and the towns people added a realness to everything I could imagine was happening, and I can't wait for more.
I have voluntarily left this review.
Or maybe it's the magic of a little town that celebrates Christmas all year round.
No matter these two are together whether it's fake or not. Maddox needs to look personable and Eve needs firetrucks in her parade.
These characters were really likeable even if at times I really wanted them to just communicate better. Their interactions and conversations gave the story a very warm quality, that I really enjoyed.
Single Dad and winning I thought Maddox's daughter was really great for the tween character, Sophia was sweet and caring even though her character had gone through a rough time.
Interaction with family and the towns people added a realness to everything I could imagine was happening, and I can't wait for more.
I have voluntarily left this review.
February 10, 2026
Maddox wants to be the next fire chief - he knows that it will add stability to his life and his daughter Sofia’s after the death of his wife 2 years ago. So he is not prepared when Eve walks into the fire house in a red dress handing out muffins, asking for the fire station to help with a Christmas parade she is planning. He thinks it is a bad idea but the current fire chief loves the idea so much he puts Maddox in charge and sets him up on a date with Eve. Eve knows something about loss as well - her parents died in a car crash recently and she and her sister are trying to revitalize a Christmas themed resort. What begins as fake dating becomes real feelings - but is Maddox ready for a real relationship, not just a friends with benefits situation?
I did read the first book in this series and like it a lot but this book works as a stand alone. You will love the two main characters.
I read an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
I did read the first book in this series and like it a lot but this book works as a stand alone. You will love the two main characters.
I read an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
January 31, 2026
So happy Eve got her story, making a grumpy widowed firefighter find love again. Maddox is not a happy guy, in line to be the chief but his moody attitude might keep him from getting the promotion. The only thing that makes him happy is his daughter, until Eve, along with her sister are hard working to make Christmas Town a success. The attraction becomes more,they have their midnights together, keeping it from Sofia and others because they think being together has an end date when Maddox becomes chief. Eve loves being with Maddox and Sofia and dreams of what it would be like being part of a family. I flew through this book, sad that Eve being alone except for her sister, working too hard to fill the emptiness and not allowing herself to love for fear of being hurt and Maddox trying to find how to live and smile again after the loss of his wife. Loved it!
February 2, 2026
Eve has taken on the project of her life - getting Christmas Town ready for their first Christmas season as owners. She's got grand ideas and needs the fire department to help make them happen. Little did she know how much meeting the grumpy fire fighter, Maddox, would change her life. He's still struggling after the loss of his wife wanting to be the best he can for his sweet daughter, but he's lost. He's on a mission to be the next fire chief so he can have more regular hours and be there more for his daughter. Little did he know the current fire chief was going to play matchmaker. There's drama for sure to this story, but also sweet moments between Eve and Sofia that warmed my heart. Eve and Maddox both have demons they need to work through, but together their dreams can become reality.
February 15, 2026
Love returning to Christmas Town with the Sterling brothers. Book two in this heartfelt series by Lea Coll shines the spotlight on single-dad firefighter Maddox and Eve, the town owner and event planner, as they find their way to their perfect HEA.
What begins as a fake-dating arrangement—Maddox’s bid to become fire chief so he can spend more time with his daughter, Sophia—slowly turns into something neither of them expects. Between baking cookies, setting up festive displays, and sharing hot chocolate, sparks fly and hearts soften.
Midnight Dreams is another fantastic read, blending cozy small-town charm with heartwarming goodness, sexy banter, and beautiful family moments. You’ll fall head over heels for Maddox, Eve, and little Sophia—and be utterly smitten with the rest of this town’s cast, begging for more. 🎄✨
What begins as a fake-dating arrangement—Maddox’s bid to become fire chief so he can spend more time with his daughter, Sophia—slowly turns into something neither of them expects. Between baking cookies, setting up festive displays, and sharing hot chocolate, sparks fly and hearts soften.
Midnight Dreams is another fantastic read, blending cozy small-town charm with heartwarming goodness, sexy banter, and beautiful family moments. You’ll fall head over heels for Maddox, Eve, and little Sophia—and be utterly smitten with the rest of this town’s cast, begging for more. 🎄✨
February 12, 2026
What's hotter than a single dad? A single dad who is a firefighter! I loved the explosive chemistry between Maddox and Eve. Maddox is a grumpy single dad raising his daughter alone after his wife died two years ago. He is also hoping to get a promotion to fire chief. Eve is trying to run Christmas Town with her sister. When Eve asks for Maddox's help getting fire trucks in the parade, Maddox is hesitant until his boss tells him it would help towards his promotion to spend more time with Eve. It was supposed to be a fake relationship to change his image, but suddenly it felt very real. Could they both get what they wanted without someone's heart getting broke? I loved Eve, Maddox, and Sofia! I'm definitely looking forward to the next book in the series.
February 7, 2026
found family
Two years after losing his wife Maddox is trying to get a promotion as fire chief so he can be home more with his daughter Sofia. He meets Eve when she stops by the fire department to see if they would be willing to drive a fire truck in their Christmas parade. Frank his chief tasks Eve in trying to get Maddox to loosen up and live a little.
They decided on a fake relationship to help Maddox get the job but along the way to their happily ever after they have to learn how to compromise and communicate with each other. I definitely recommend this book and I cant wait to read about Angela and Hudson
Two years after losing his wife Maddox is trying to get a promotion as fire chief so he can be home more with his daughter Sofia. He meets Eve when she stops by the fire department to see if they would be willing to drive a fire truck in their Christmas parade. Frank his chief tasks Eve in trying to get Maddox to loosen up and live a little.
They decided on a fake relationship to help Maddox get the job but along the way to their happily ever after they have to learn how to compromise and communicate with each other. I definitely recommend this book and I cant wait to read about Angela and Hudson
February 10, 2026
The second book in the Sterling Brothers series is a single dad romance that did not disappoint. Eve and Maddox finds themselves connected when they needed something from each other. He needs a date for their annual Christmas party and she wants the fire department at the Christmas Town first parade. What happens next was an enjoyable romance story with likable characters and a heartwarming storyline. I loved how their fake date becomes more as their relationship blossomed with he adorable daughter Sofia and surrounded by the cute town that Eve and her sister is bring to life. I love how magical this small town is and can’t wait for more.
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.5….Oh boy are these sisters the sweetest! This time we have Eve. Eve and her sister recently bought Christmas town. They want to bring Christmas town to its glory…even bringing the Christmas parade back to life. So when Eve goes to the neighboring towns fire station, asking for a favor…she gets more than she bargained for. Maddox is a single father and a firefighter up for chief…but the current chief thinks he is a bit of a grump. So Eve and Maddox engage into a I’ll scratch your back if you will scratch mine situation…and it was adorable. But what happens when it’s not fake anymore…for either one of them. Then you add in his beyond adorable daughter Sofia and you have a very sweet story. This is a fast paced, layered story with fun characters. Characters who have been through some tough times and found their person when they least expect it. Maddox and Eve had cute banter and undeniable chemistry. Eve and Sofia were beyond perfect together…so cute. I am really enjoying this series and can’t wait to see what happens next.
February 7, 2026
What a great story! Eve is the unofficial mayor of Christmas Town, planning events to make the town money and promote the inn her sister is in charge of. She meets Maddox when she takes baked goods to the fire station to ask the department to be in the parade. Maddox, a recent widower, was not enthusiastic about the idea. His chief tells him to work with Eve. Maddox is up for a promotion and his chief thinks that it will do wonders for his public image. They decide to fake date in order to make it seem believable. I really enjoyed reading their journey and watching the town come together.
February 8, 2026
Eve & Maddox are two people that have experienced tragedy & so deserve their HEA!! They are brought together to plan an event for his fire house with Eve being the event planner. They are both dealing with their own life tragedies but finally find peace & happiness with each other and his adorable daughter. Lea’s books are always heartfelt filled with love, humor, emotion, heartbreak, healing, just all the feels that make you invested with her wonderful characters. Looking forward to the next book in the series!!
February 1, 2026
Eve and Maddox were an interesting couple. I liked the way they moved from fake to real. Sofia plays an important part in their relationship. I enjoyed the way Eve has to work on balance between work and her life. This was a good book I read in a couple hours.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Eve, Maddox and Sofia makes the perfect grumpy-sunshine combo! This book will have you smiling and melting at the same time!
February 18, 2026
Midnight Dreams is a fantastic second installment in The Sterling Brothers series. This story follows Eve, a talented event planner and co-owner of Christmas Town, and Maddox, a devoted single-dad firefighter. What starts as a fake-dating scheme to help Maddox snag a promotion to Chief quickly turns into something much more intense. Their chemistry is absolutely undeniable! This was such an enjoyable read—packed with swoon-worthy moments and that "feel-good" romance energy we all crave. I highly recommend this book!
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