What do you think?
Rate this book
Kiss me Lieutenant: An Enemies to Lovers Firefighter Romance
She lost everything once.
Kate Moore was twenty-two when a single fall ended her figure skating career. Three surgeries. Years of recovery. And a future that vanished overnight.
Now she's rebuilding—as a firefighter in a station full of unfairly attractive men in uniform. She's used to being underestimated. She's used to fighting for every inch of respect.
What she's not used to? Lieutenant Jake Winters.
He's grumpy. Guarded. Irritatingly good at his job. And hotter than she thought possible.
Jake has rules. Walls. A past he doesn't talk about. He's not the kind of man who lets people in.
But Kate has never been good at following rules.
Spicy firefighter romance. Enemies to lovers. Grumpy/sunshine. He falls first. Workplace romance.
Standalone HEA.
Kate Moore was twenty-two when a single fall ended her figure skating career. Three surgeries. Years of recovery. And a future that vanished overnight.
Now she's rebuilding—as a firefighter in a station full of unfairly attractive men in uniform. She's used to being underestimated. She's used to fighting for every inch of respect.
What she's not used to? Lieutenant Jake Winters.
He's grumpy. Guarded. Irritatingly good at his job. And hotter than she thought possible.
Jake has rules. Walls. A past he doesn't talk about. He's not the kind of man who lets people in.
But Kate has never been good at following rules.
Spicy firefighter romance. Enemies to lovers. Grumpy/sunshine. He falls first. Workplace romance.
Standalone HEA.
127 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 16, 2026
15 people are currently reading
12 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
Review of advance copy
~ My Thoughts ~
This was a short and quick romance between two headstrong and determined firefighters who find love when they least expect.
After suffering an injury that ended her promising ice skating career, Kate has traded her dream of Olympic Gold for the rough life of a firefighter. Proving she has what it takes becomes her new mission and no one doubts her more than Lieutenant, Jake Winters.
Jake has experienced loss on the job and he's promised himself he will give his all the work but won't subject anyone to the uncertainty of life with a first responder.
These two do not get off on the right foot and they both have issues they need to deal with but their chemistry was undeniable. Kate has a dogged determination to succeed and I loved that she met her goal and proved herself. Jake is a strong leader but he's also a stubborn man and even though it took some bumps along the way, he does eventually see the light. He had to learn from his mistake but Kate did a little deviation when her own doubts crept in which baffled me a little.
I loved the snippets of every day life in the station and the other firefighters that made small appearances have definitely piqued my interest. Especially because of the firefighter calendar! Jake is January and the Chief, who is February, is hinted as being the next Hero to get his HEA.
The author has a great voice and her writing style is rich, concise and engaging. Will definitely try to read more by this author!.
I voluntarily read and reviewed this book. All thoughts and opinions expressed here are my own.
SPOILER-Y EXTRAS:
This was a short and quick romance between two headstrong and determined firefighters who find love when they least expect.
After suffering an injury that ended her promising ice skating career, Kate has traded her dream of Olympic Gold for the rough life of a firefighter. Proving she has what it takes becomes her new mission and no one doubts her more than Lieutenant, Jake Winters.
Jake has experienced loss on the job and he's promised himself he will give his all the work but won't subject anyone to the uncertainty of life with a first responder.
These two do not get off on the right foot and they both have issues they need to deal with but their chemistry was undeniable. Kate has a dogged determination to succeed and I loved that she met her goal and proved herself. Jake is a strong leader but he's also a stubborn man and even though it took some bumps along the way, he does eventually see the light. He had to learn from his mistake but Kate did a little deviation when her own doubts crept in which baffled me a little.
I loved the snippets of every day life in the station and the other firefighters that made small appearances have definitely piqued my interest. Especially because of the firefighter calendar! Jake is January and the Chief, who is February, is hinted as being the next Hero to get his HEA.
The author has a great voice and her writing style is rich, concise and engaging. Will definitely try to read more by this author!.
I voluntarily read and reviewed this book. All thoughts and opinions expressed here are my own.
SPOILER-Y EXTRAS:
February 19, 2026
Callie Embers delivers a heartfelt, uplifting story in Kiss Me Lieutenant, the first book of the Thunder Valley Fire & Rescue series. You are immediately drawn into Kate Moore’s inspiring journey—her resilience after losing her figure skating career shines as she courageously embraces a new path as a firefighter. Every setback she faces only makes her more determined to succeed.
The camaraderie and lively atmosphere that develops at the fire station feel authentic and familial. Kate’s drive to prove herself among her colleagues is both empowering and relatable, making her a standout heroine. The chemistry between Kate and Lieutenant Jake Winters is explosive—his gruff exterior and strict rules are no match for Kate’s warmth and optimism. Their playful banter and growing attraction keep the story engaging and fun.
Jake turns out to be an unexpectedly swoon-worthy hero. Despite his guarded nature and vow to avoid relationships, he becomes the perfect complement to Kate’s sunshine personality, making their enemies-to-lovers journey deeply satisfying. The romance unfolds with plenty of passion, angst and emotions, creating moments that will leave you both teary-eyed and smiling.
This book is a true celebration of strength, friendship, and love. The small-town setting of Thunder Valley adds an irresistible allure, making you wish you could join the crew yourself. Kiss Me Lieutenant is fast-paced instalove, spicy, and packed with emotional moments, perfect for anyone looking for a binge-worthy romance with a happily ever after.
With its unforgettable characters, addictive plot, and hard-fought HEA, Kiss Me Lieutenant is sure to leave readers in high spirits. I highly recommend it to fans of workplace romance, strong heroines, and stories where love conquers all.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The camaraderie and lively atmosphere that develops at the fire station feel authentic and familial. Kate’s drive to prove herself among her colleagues is both empowering and relatable, making her a standout heroine. The chemistry between Kate and Lieutenant Jake Winters is explosive—his gruff exterior and strict rules are no match for Kate’s warmth and optimism. Their playful banter and growing attraction keep the story engaging and fun.
Jake turns out to be an unexpectedly swoon-worthy hero. Despite his guarded nature and vow to avoid relationships, he becomes the perfect complement to Kate’s sunshine personality, making their enemies-to-lovers journey deeply satisfying. The romance unfolds with plenty of passion, angst and emotions, creating moments that will leave you both teary-eyed and smiling.
This book is a true celebration of strength, friendship, and love. The small-town setting of Thunder Valley adds an irresistible allure, making you wish you could join the crew yourself. Kiss Me Lieutenant is fast-paced instalove, spicy, and packed with emotional moments, perfect for anyone looking for a binge-worthy romance with a happily ever after.
With its unforgettable characters, addictive plot, and hard-fought HEA, Kiss Me Lieutenant is sure to leave readers in high spirits. I highly recommend it to fans of workplace romance, strong heroines, and stories where love conquers all.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 18, 2026
Kate, previously a figure skater, worked hard to be accepted as a firefighter/EMT, when she faced a pretty misogynistic crew who were frankly, pretty horrible.
I liked Kate. She was driven, a pretty strong character, and she just got on with it.
Jake? Not so much. First impressions were not good, and it took a while for him to even seem remotely accepting (and human).
Then his actions at about 55%…. nope. Like Kate said...
“The hot-and-cold routine. She'd told herself it meant he was fighting his feelings. But maybe he'd just been fighting his conscience; knowing he was going to f… her and walk away. She'd been so stupid.”
I hurt for her, and wanted to say just have a HEA by yourself. I was glad she knew her worth and stood up to him, and gave him a taste of his own medicine.
There was a lot of push-pull, and it gave significant rage-read vibes with his actions. However, the only saving grace on that, is that his history was known, and that it led to his fears and hang-ups.
I liked Kate. She was driven, a pretty strong character, and she just got on with it.
Jake? Not so much. First impressions were not good, and it took a while for him to even seem remotely accepting (and human).
Then his actions at about 55%…. nope. Like Kate said...
“The hot-and-cold routine. She'd told herself it meant he was fighting his feelings. But maybe he'd just been fighting his conscience; knowing he was going to f… her and walk away. She'd been so stupid.”
I hurt for her, and wanted to say just have a HEA by yourself. I was glad she knew her worth and stood up to him, and gave him a taste of his own medicine.
There was a lot of push-pull, and it gave significant rage-read vibes with his actions. However, the only saving grace on that, is that his history was known, and that it led to his fears and hang-ups.
February 20, 2026
“Kiss me Lieutenant” is a wonderful workplace, firefighter, enemies to lovers, grumpy/sunshine, second chance short read. This story is well-written with characters that lead their story. Kate and Jake are a compelling couple that are looking for second chances. Kate, with her life of circumstances and turning an unfavored event into a positive and Jake with his ability to cope and move on from loss of a friend/co-worker. As Kate and Jake deal with the workplace dynamics, they also find they have a strong chemistry to one another. I love how strong the characters are in this story. The female lead with being spunky and determined and Jake with admitting emotions and letting Kate into his life. “Kiss me Lieutenant” is Book 1 of the Thunder Valley Fire and Rescue series and worth the read.
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.
February 26, 2026
kate is an ex Olympic ice skate and is rebuilding her life, she becomes and fire-fighter and returns to her home town.
Jake is a no nonsense fire-fighter who believes relationships and fire-fighters fighting don't belong together and is determined to live his live alone to spare the hurt of losing him (which he has watched loved ones do.)
Kate's first day as a trainee, sees her slip on black and ice and Jake was there to catch her. then she finds out he is her mentor.
attraction from the get go. the dodge each other where possible until attraction meets lust (spicy). high tension,avoidance. denial and adrenalin come downs make this book a great short read, where you can delve into the lives of Kate and Jake.
favourite scene was the shower. when you read you will know.
" for woman who walk into male dominated roles and refuse to shrink"
Jake is a no nonsense fire-fighter who believes relationships and fire-fighters fighting don't belong together and is determined to live his live alone to spare the hurt of losing him (which he has watched loved ones do.)
Kate's first day as a trainee, sees her slip on black and ice and Jake was there to catch her. then she finds out he is her mentor.
attraction from the get go. the dodge each other where possible until attraction meets lust (spicy). high tension,avoidance. denial and adrenalin come downs make this book a great short read, where you can delve into the lives of Kate and Jake.
favourite scene was the shower. when you read you will know.
" for woman who walk into male dominated roles and refuse to shrink"
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
I absolutely inhaled this book.
Jake and Kate have the best story I’ve read in ages the banter, the rivalry, the way they get under each other’s skin from day one.
The firefighter setting feels real and intense, and the ice-skating twist makes the rescue scenes unique.
And the chemistry is unreal. The hot tub scene alone deserves five stars.
It’s funny, emotional, properly steamy, and full of that delicious workplace tension where they absolutely should not be getting involved… but you’re rooting for it the whole time.
I loved the side characters, the small-town vibe, and how messy and human Jake is when he starts to fall. I can’t wait to read the rest of this series.
Couldn’t put it down. Would 100% read more in this world.
Jake and Kate have the best story I’ve read in ages the banter, the rivalry, the way they get under each other’s skin from day one.
The firefighter setting feels real and intense, and the ice-skating twist makes the rescue scenes unique.
And the chemistry is unreal. The hot tub scene alone deserves five stars.
It’s funny, emotional, properly steamy, and full of that delicious workplace tension where they absolutely should not be getting involved… but you’re rooting for it the whole time.
I loved the side characters, the small-town vibe, and how messy and human Jake is when he starts to fall. I can’t wait to read the rest of this series.
Couldn’t put it down. Would 100% read more in this world.
February 23, 2026
This is probably going to sound wrong, but I love a good firefighter romance with a character that is afraid to open up to love and risk leaving a loved one behind. That always adds an extra layer of emotions that I just love. In Kiss Me Lieutenant, Jake is immediately attracted to his new underling, but he can't allow himself to act on it. Why? Well, for 2 reasons. The first is that he is technically her superior and the second is because he saw first hand what happens when they lose a firefighter. It breaks the heart of their family. Unfortunantly for Jake, he can only ignore the strong attraction between him and Kate. Once that sexual tension snaps, they can only deny it for so long.
I loved Kiss Me Lieutenant. The chemistry and tension was amazing. I wish Jake and Kate were better at conveying their feelings, but they got there in the end. I adored the cast of characters and I'm wondering who will be up next. Oh, the anticipation!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I loved Kiss Me Lieutenant. The chemistry and tension was amazing. I wish Jake and Kate were better at conveying their feelings, but they got there in the end. I adored the cast of characters and I'm wondering who will be up next. Oh, the anticipation!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
A quick read for those who are looking for a hot firefighter, enemies to lovers, forbidden romance. Both are dealing with their own demons, but they have an undeniable chemistry that they ignore until they can't anymore. I enjoyed Kate's ambition and persistence in a male dominated occupation. She continued to show up and prove to Jake (and the other firefighters in her crew) that she has what it takes to be a firefighter.
This seems to be the first of series. I'm looking forward to my future quick fixes of romance as I explore the series!
This seems to be the first of series. I'm looking forward to my future quick fixes of romance as I explore the series!
February 23, 2026
'Spicy firefighter romance. Enemies to lovers. Grumpy/sunshine. He falls first. Workplace romance.
Standalone HEA.'
The characters drove the storyline and they were so very appealing and likeable and complex and complicated and perfectly steamy together. Plot was intriguing and intense and well paced. World building was excellent and impressive. Thoroughly enjoyed and highly recommend.
Kick back and enjoy the read!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Standalone HEA.'
The characters drove the storyline and they were so very appealing and likeable and complex and complicated and perfectly steamy together. Plot was intriguing and intense and well paced. World building was excellent and impressive. Thoroughly enjoyed and highly recommend.
Kick back and enjoy the read!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy
This is a great firefighter romance. Jake is the station LT who closes himself off from romance after his friend didn't make it out of a fire and he saw how the wife reacted. Kate is a new firefighter after her figure skating dream ended with an ankle injury. Their forever is feisty, entertaining and has the danger callouts provide. Don't miss this one.
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.
Review of advance copy
Book 1 Thunder Valley Fire & Rescue story of Kate Moore and Jake Winters. Now that took guts and bravery to stand up for what you want when life gets tough and steals your dreams to fight for another. I have to say these two are a match that makes you see hearts.
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.
February 20, 2026
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. I'm glad both Kate and Jake overcame their inner fears and the possible fear of what if to love each other.
February 23, 2026
If you're looking for a quick read, fluffy and cute with a little bit of smut, this is a book for you. A smoldering, hot firefighter and an over eager, cute rookie, what could go wrong?
#ARC
#ARC
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews