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Half Moon Lake Heroes: The Red Line #4
Calling a Cease-Fire
Zack Stoer is cocky, frustrating, and frankly quite annoying.
But he’s also extremely attractive. My body doesn’t seem to care that the hot firefighter gets on my last nerve with his golden retriever energy.
For the sake of our best friends, I have to figure out a way to get along with him. And what starts as a ceasefire morphs into something… well, complicated.
A friendship perhaps. But the attraction that neither of us can ignore is anything but friendly.
Love and commitment has never been my thing, and I’m sure it never will. So why does the idea of being with Zack seem so tempting? Especially when I know he wants more than just a casual hook up.
One intentionally set fire has us crossing that line. But if it all blows up, I’ll be the one to take the heat. And I could risk losing everything.
Author's Note: Calling a Cease Fire is a full length, small town romance featuring a fun-loving firefighter and his off limits frenemy. If you love golden retriever/black cat, enemies to lovers, workplace romance with a touch of suspense then this book is for you! Content warning found on author's website.
About the series: When four firefighters from Half Moon Lake find themselves under attack by a serial arsonist, the last thing they're looking for is love. But fate has different plans, as one by one, these first responders find their perfect match.
Although each book in the series can be read alone, it is highly recommended that they are read in order.
But he’s also extremely attractive. My body doesn’t seem to care that the hot firefighter gets on my last nerve with his golden retriever energy.
For the sake of our best friends, I have to figure out a way to get along with him. And what starts as a ceasefire morphs into something… well, complicated.
A friendship perhaps. But the attraction that neither of us can ignore is anything but friendly.
Love and commitment has never been my thing, and I’m sure it never will. So why does the idea of being with Zack seem so tempting? Especially when I know he wants more than just a casual hook up.
One intentionally set fire has us crossing that line. But if it all blows up, I’ll be the one to take the heat. And I could risk losing everything.
Author's Note: Calling a Cease Fire is a full length, small town romance featuring a fun-loving firefighter and his off limits frenemy. If you love golden retriever/black cat, enemies to lovers, workplace romance with a touch of suspense then this book is for you! Content warning found on author's website.
About the series: When four firefighters from Half Moon Lake find themselves under attack by a serial arsonist, the last thing they're looking for is love. But fate has different plans, as one by one, these first responders find their perfect match.
Although each book in the series can be read alone, it is highly recommended that they are read in order.
282 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 21, 2026
About the author
A.J. Ranney
22 books224 followersA.J. Ranney lives in Maryland with her ever-growing zoo, including two kids, two cats, an attention loving dog, a bunny, a cricket eating lizard and her lovable well-meaning husband. She likes to leave the chaos of her real world behind and lose herself in a steamy romance novel. Her passion for reading romance prompted her writing journey, leading her to create relatable happily ever afters that come from her own dreams and experiences. She loves coffee, sushi, wine, and her family. Not necessarily in that order. Her inner peace comes from the water, always relating to her zodiac sign the Pisces. It’s no wonder the small town she created in her stories is situated on a lake.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
July 11, 2026
Oh my goodness this was soooo good! I have loved every book in the series and it’s truly hard to pick a favorite couple but I think Zack and Mia might be my favorite. They completely give off golden retriever, black cat vibes, and I love a good opposites, attract with spice and banter. It literally makes me giggly thinking about it and I can’t recommend this book enough.
August 21, 2026
A fantastic addition to the Half Moon Lake heroes series. I have enjoyed each book in the series, and Zack and Mia might be my favorite couple.
Zack and Mia are written so well, the banter these two give us as the two are opposites, is fun to read. They start out disliking each other. Tolerating each other just enough to keep peace in the friends group. Then there is a shift and friendship forms, moving to more?
Mia being anti relationship, we watch Zack fall fast and hard.
The crew is front a center as we finally get the answers to our arsonist. We have followed this through the entire series. We are now four books in, and I love every couple written. We have fireman and the ladies who love them.
Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review
Zack and Mia are written so well, the banter these two give us as the two are opposites, is fun to read. They start out disliking each other. Tolerating each other just enough to keep peace in the friends group. Then there is a shift and friendship forms, moving to more?
Mia being anti relationship, we watch Zack fall fast and hard.
The crew is front a center as we finally get the answers to our arsonist. We have followed this through the entire series. We are now four books in, and I love every couple written. We have fireman and the ladies who love them.
Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review
August 25, 2026
Never disappointed!
What can I say?! I love AJ’s writing and she has become an auto buy author for me.
I love the way she created the dynamic between Mia and her daddy attitude to the fun loving firefighter Zack.
Sand to see this series end but I cannot wait to see what’s next.
What can I say?! I love AJ’s writing and she has become an auto buy author for me.
I love the way she created the dynamic between Mia and her daddy attitude to the fun loving firefighter Zack.
Sand to see this series end but I cannot wait to see what’s next.
August 23, 2026
I’ve been looking forward to the release of this book so much because I couldn’t wait to return to Half Moon Lake! I was dying to find out how the arsonist storyline was going to be resolved as well as dive into Zack and Mia’s story. While this can be read as a standalone, I definitely recommend reading the series for the full experience. If you love hot firefighters, golden retriever/black cat energy, enemies-to-lovers, workplace romance, small-town vibes and a dash of suspense, this one is for you!
Zack is the ultimate golden retriever. He’s a firefighter with a heart of gold who loves his job, his friends and especially teasing the beautiful dispatcher Mia. I absolutely adored his playful personality and the way he always prioritized Mia’s comfort and moved at her pace because he wanted something real and lasting. Major green-flag energy!
Mia was such a relatable character. I loved how self-aware she was and how her journey explored the way we can deny ourselves happiness because we don’t believe we deserve it. Watching her work through those struggles and find her way was incredibly touching.
Zack and Mia’s romance is a slow burn with tension right from the beginning and it only gets hotter as the story progresses. When they finally give in, it’s fire! Their banter was so much fun and watching them fall in love had me absolutely swooning!
I also enjoyed getting to see the friend group from the previous books so heavily involved. It really made the small-town atmosphere feel even more authentic and gave me all the found-family feels. The suspense storyline added an extra layer of excitement and danger that kept me turning the pages.
This was a fun, swoony and delightful read. I highly recommend entering your firefighter era and visiting Half Moon Lake immediately!
ARC Review 📚
Zack is the ultimate golden retriever. He’s a firefighter with a heart of gold who loves his job, his friends and especially teasing the beautiful dispatcher Mia. I absolutely adored his playful personality and the way he always prioritized Mia’s comfort and moved at her pace because he wanted something real and lasting. Major green-flag energy!
Mia was such a relatable character. I loved how self-aware she was and how her journey explored the way we can deny ourselves happiness because we don’t believe we deserve it. Watching her work through those struggles and find her way was incredibly touching.
Zack and Mia’s romance is a slow burn with tension right from the beginning and it only gets hotter as the story progresses. When they finally give in, it’s fire! Their banter was so much fun and watching them fall in love had me absolutely swooning!
I also enjoyed getting to see the friend group from the previous books so heavily involved. It really made the small-town atmosphere feel even more authentic and gave me all the found-family feels. The suspense storyline added an extra layer of excitement and danger that kept me turning the pages.
This was a fun, swoony and delightful read. I highly recommend entering your firefighter era and visiting Half Moon Lake immediately!
ARC Review 📚
August 25, 2026
Welcome back to Half Moon Lake, an quiet little mountain town that has been having some problems over the past few months..
There is a serial arsonist stalking the fire department, & while they (plus the police) have an idea of who…there isn’t enough evidence yet…
Calling a Cease Fire is book four & is Zack & Mia’s story.
Zack is a firefighter, while Mia is a dispatcher…
When they first meet…their personalities ‘clashed’…
Zack gives off an happy-go-lucky vibe (most of the time) & Mia seems to be ‘allergic’ to showing emotions. Zack then takes it as a dare…to see what ‘emotion’ he can get her to show.
So..
They’re ‘tasked’ with finding an location that can hold a dual pre-wedding party…
Zack wants to get to know Mia better; while Mia would prefer to be ‘closed’ off..
There is still the arsonist running around..
Throw in some dysfunctional family, nosy friends, and some kittens…
You get the overall plot for Calling a Cease Fire.
Did they catch the arsonist? Did the ‘love curse’ of the apartment strike again? If you want the answers—grab a copy of Calling a Cease Fire, available now everywhere.
I loved this book & seeing Zack & Mia getting together. None of us are perfect…but those that had difficult childhoods usually tend to try to keep people from getting too close. Zack was perfect for Mia…the ‘games’ played on their trips—laugh out loud…
Five out of five star & the best thing—the series is now complete, so one can now happily binge-read them over the weekend…or the upcoming long weekend…either works. Grab a cool drink, a comfortable seat, possibly a snack or two & curl up with this book. Relax & visit Half Moon Lake…where the water is cool…but the romance is hotter.
There is a serial arsonist stalking the fire department, & while they (plus the police) have an idea of who…there isn’t enough evidence yet…
Calling a Cease Fire is book four & is Zack & Mia’s story.
Zack is a firefighter, while Mia is a dispatcher…
When they first meet…their personalities ‘clashed’…
Zack gives off an happy-go-lucky vibe (most of the time) & Mia seems to be ‘allergic’ to showing emotions. Zack then takes it as a dare…to see what ‘emotion’ he can get her to show.
So..
They’re ‘tasked’ with finding an location that can hold a dual pre-wedding party…
Zack wants to get to know Mia better; while Mia would prefer to be ‘closed’ off..
There is still the arsonist running around..
Throw in some dysfunctional family, nosy friends, and some kittens…
You get the overall plot for Calling a Cease Fire.
Did they catch the arsonist? Did the ‘love curse’ of the apartment strike again? If you want the answers—grab a copy of Calling a Cease Fire, available now everywhere.
I loved this book & seeing Zack & Mia getting together. None of us are perfect…but those that had difficult childhoods usually tend to try to keep people from getting too close. Zack was perfect for Mia…the ‘games’ played on their trips—laugh out loud…
Five out of five star & the best thing—the series is now complete, so one can now happily binge-read them over the weekend…or the upcoming long weekend…either works. Grab a cool drink, a comfortable seat, possibly a snack or two & curl up with this book. Relax & visit Half Moon Lake…where the water is cool…but the romance is hotter.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Half Moon Lake Heroes - Red Line: Zack and Mia
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Zack is adorable.
He’s also cocky, frustrating and occasionally quite annoying… but unfortunately for Mia, he’s also ridiculously attractive. That golden retriever/black cat dynamic worked so well.
And I absolutely loved all the kitten references. They were such a cute little addition to their dynamic and made me smile every time.
Mia and Zack start off as frenemies (in a way), finding a way to get along for the sake of their best friends. The ceasefire turns into friendship, then eventually something neither of them can ignore.
And Zack?
He falls first, fast and HARD.
I really enjoyed watching him fall for Mia while she fought against the idea of anything serious.
Although… I’m still not 100% sure why Mia was so against relationships. Maybe I missed something, but I never felt like I fully understood what was behind her resistance. It wasn't enough to ruin the story for me, but I would have liked a little more clarity there.
The firefighter setting, found-family vibes and small-town setting were fun, and I liked the added suspense from the arsonist storyline. The conflict at the end sort of rounded it off, but I almost wanted a bit more from the Zack/Mia situation…
A fun golden retriever/black cat romance with great chemistry, plenty of cute moments and one very loveable firefighter.
Zack definitely won me over.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Zack is adorable.
He’s also cocky, frustrating and occasionally quite annoying… but unfortunately for Mia, he’s also ridiculously attractive. That golden retriever/black cat dynamic worked so well.
And I absolutely loved all the kitten references. They were such a cute little addition to their dynamic and made me smile every time.
Mia and Zack start off as frenemies (in a way), finding a way to get along for the sake of their best friends. The ceasefire turns into friendship, then eventually something neither of them can ignore.
And Zack?
He falls first, fast and HARD.
I really enjoyed watching him fall for Mia while she fought against the idea of anything serious.
Although… I’m still not 100% sure why Mia was so against relationships. Maybe I missed something, but I never felt like I fully understood what was behind her resistance. It wasn't enough to ruin the story for me, but I would have liked a little more clarity there.
The firefighter setting, found-family vibes and small-town setting were fun, and I liked the added suspense from the arsonist storyline. The conflict at the end sort of rounded it off, but I almost wanted a bit more from the Zack/Mia situation…
A fun golden retriever/black cat romance with great chemistry, plenty of cute moments and one very loveable firefighter.
Zack definitely won me over.
August 22, 2026
In love! Calling a Cease Fire is he falls first, the boy is kind of obsessed, drive each other crazy, banter all day, heaven. A.J. Ranney just slays with this firefighter romance, the way these enemies become secret lovers and Zack sees right through every wall Mia throws up is perfect, and the suspense with the arsonist who’s wreaked havoc through every book in the series is delightfully intense and fully escalated.
This is one of those he was all in the second they could be in the same room without killing each other, it totally snuck up on her because he slyly slid all the way under her skin kind of romances and I am crazy about it! Zack is all the sunshine to Mia’s grumpy, I adore the way these two help each other cope with the hard days due to their jobs and seeing Mia slowly letting herself fall for Zack is so cute. They have that kind of chemistry where the fight is half the foreplay and it’s so good, I love the whole rage room thing particularly because it shows that Zack gets that Mia needs a way to deal with the bad days that come with not being able to save everyone and while I am so down for therapy and think it is a wonderful, useful, and healthy way to work through things like that, I am also very aware that therapy does not work the same for everyone and I like that Zack can see that maybe what Mia needs is something a little different. Just a really genuine romance done well with a great wrap up of a storyline that has spanned the series.
This is one of those he was all in the second they could be in the same room without killing each other, it totally snuck up on her because he slyly slid all the way under her skin kind of romances and I am crazy about it! Zack is all the sunshine to Mia’s grumpy, I adore the way these two help each other cope with the hard days due to their jobs and seeing Mia slowly letting herself fall for Zack is so cute. They have that kind of chemistry where the fight is half the foreplay and it’s so good, I love the whole rage room thing particularly because it shows that Zack gets that Mia needs a way to deal with the bad days that come with not being able to save everyone and while I am so down for therapy and think it is a wonderful, useful, and healthy way to work through things like that, I am also very aware that therapy does not work the same for everyone and I like that Zack can see that maybe what Mia needs is something a little different. Just a really genuine romance done well with a great wrap up of a storyline that has spanned the series.
September 27, 2026
This one started off strong for me. The MMC, Zack, is a firefighter, and the FMC, Mia, is a dispatcher, so I was immediately interested in the setup.
Unfortunately, somewhere along the way, they just started getting a little… annoying. 😂
I liked that Zack was protective and jealous, but eventually it felt less “protective” and more like a dog following her around everywhere. 😂 It just felt unnecessary to the story and became more irritating than romantic for me.
And Mia… girl. 😩 I understand that she had some really bad examples of love growing up and hadn’t been in love before Zack, but there is a limit to how oblivious a person can be after weeks of being happy, wanting someone, and clearly falling for them. Some of her choices felt unnecessarily dumb just to get us to the point where she needed Zack after he was injured.
And then there’s the arsonist. 🤷♀️ I’m still not entirely sure what the point of that storyline was. Was it supposed to put them on edge? Force proximity? Create some external conflict? It just didn’t flow naturally for me, and I never felt like it added much to the overall story.
There were definitely some good spicy scenes, and I did enjoy parts of Zack and Mia’s relationship. But overall, the further I got into the book, the more I found myself questioning some of the choices being made for the plot.
Not bad, just not quite the hit I was hoping for after that strong beginning.
3.5 stars. 🤷♀️
Unfortunately, somewhere along the way, they just started getting a little… annoying. 😂
I liked that Zack was protective and jealous, but eventually it felt less “protective” and more like a dog following her around everywhere. 😂 It just felt unnecessary to the story and became more irritating than romantic for me.
And Mia… girl. 😩 I understand that she had some really bad examples of love growing up and hadn’t been in love before Zack, but there is a limit to how oblivious a person can be after weeks of being happy, wanting someone, and clearly falling for them. Some of her choices felt unnecessarily dumb just to get us to the point where she needed Zack after he was injured.
And then there’s the arsonist. 🤷♀️ I’m still not entirely sure what the point of that storyline was. Was it supposed to put them on edge? Force proximity? Create some external conflict? It just didn’t flow naturally for me, and I never felt like it added much to the overall story.
There were definitely some good spicy scenes, and I did enjoy parts of Zack and Mia’s relationship. But overall, the further I got into the book, the more I found myself questioning some of the choices being made for the plot.
Not bad, just not quite the hit I was hoping for after that strong beginning.
3.5 stars. 🤷♀️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 21, 2026
OMG I absolutely loved everything about this book and this series! I'm so sad to see this series end but I can't wait to see what AJ Ranney has in store for us next. In this book we get Zack & Mia's Story! These two will give you such great banter and their chemistry was off the charts! This book had me laughing like crazy, swooning because Zack is chef's kiss, smiling, on the edge of my seat a few times, a little emotional and then left me with a wonderful ending!
These characters are so amazing and I have loved getting to know each and everyone of them but I think this one might be my favorite. There's just something special about these two. Even though we get a lot of time with Zack & Mia, I loved the time we got with past characters as well. Plus our little mystery in this series finally ends and we will have our answers.
If you want a book that will give you all the feels then this is the book for you. Plus who doesn't love to read about hot firemen?! I HIGHLY recommend this book and this series!
Thank you AJ Ranney for allowing me to read this ARC for my honest opinion.
These characters are so amazing and I have loved getting to know each and everyone of them but I think this one might be my favorite. There's just something special about these two. Even though we get a lot of time with Zack & Mia, I loved the time we got with past characters as well. Plus our little mystery in this series finally ends and we will have our answers.
If you want a book that will give you all the feels then this is the book for you. Plus who doesn't love to read about hot firemen?! I HIGHLY recommend this book and this series!
Thank you AJ Ranney for allowing me to read this ARC for my honest opinion.
August 22, 2026
This series has been a joy to read and Calling a Cease-Fire is the perfect addition to the Half Moon Lake Heroes series. Ms. Ranney gives us an enemies-to-lovers romance of two people who are opposites, but when they finally get together, they fit together perfectly.
Zack is obsessed with Mia and she has walls around her that are almost impossible to break down. He's a firefighter and she works as an emergency dispatcher and they have the same group of friends, so they are always together. He is happy about is but she can take it or leave it and more often it is leave it. Zack is patient about getting Mia to let her guard down. Zack can see right through her and what I loved was he knew how to get her to relax and ease the stress she was feeling. It is his attention to her needs that has her opening up and letting her wall down.
What was sweet was how the two of them helped each other deal with the stresses of their jobs and they knew what each other was dealing with. The witty banter was fantastic and the chemistry was off the charts. Having their friends see the attraction between them and calling them out on it was terrific.
Zack is obsessed with Mia and she has walls around her that are almost impossible to break down. He's a firefighter and she works as an emergency dispatcher and they have the same group of friends, so they are always together. He is happy about is but she can take it or leave it and more often it is leave it. Zack is patient about getting Mia to let her guard down. Zack can see right through her and what I loved was he knew how to get her to relax and ease the stress she was feeling. It is his attention to her needs that has her opening up and letting her wall down.
What was sweet was how the two of them helped each other deal with the stresses of their jobs and they knew what each other was dealing with. The witty banter was fantastic and the chemistry was off the charts. Having their friends see the attraction between them and calling them out on it was terrific.
August 24, 2026
Book Review
Calling A Cease Fire
A Novel Written By A.J. Ranney
Fiction - Romance
Published August 2026
278 Pages
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This is the fourth and final book in the Half Moon Lake Heroes: Red Line Series. I was eager to read this book to find out the identity of the arsonist who has put the town of Half Moon Lake on edge. I also couldn’t wait to read Mia and Zack’s love story. All four books in this series focus on a love story mixed with mystery and suspense.
The author pays homage in this series to fire fighters, police officers, EMTs, and 911 operators who work tirelessly to keep us safe. The dangers they face daily in their jobs. The effects of the tough calls they encounter.
Mia Carpenter is a 911 operators. Zack Stoer is a fire fighter. Both are attracted to each other but keep fighting it. Their banter, flirting, and tension are off the charts. The slow burn makes this book a page turner. They both want something they think they can’t have until a dangerous situation brings them together.
“ ‘I think our story is just beginning.’ And with that I fall in love with him even more.”
Calling A Cease Fire
A Novel Written By A.J. Ranney
Fiction - Romance
Published August 2026
278 Pages
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This is the fourth and final book in the Half Moon Lake Heroes: Red Line Series. I was eager to read this book to find out the identity of the arsonist who has put the town of Half Moon Lake on edge. I also couldn’t wait to read Mia and Zack’s love story. All four books in this series focus on a love story mixed with mystery and suspense.
The author pays homage in this series to fire fighters, police officers, EMTs, and 911 operators who work tirelessly to keep us safe. The dangers they face daily in their jobs. The effects of the tough calls they encounter.
Mia Carpenter is a 911 operators. Zack Stoer is a fire fighter. Both are attracted to each other but keep fighting it. Their banter, flirting, and tension are off the charts. The slow burn makes this book a page turner. They both want something they think they can’t have until a dangerous situation brings them together.
“ ‘I think our story is just beginning.’ And with that I fall in love with him even more.”
August 28, 2026
🔥🚒 CALLING A CEASE FIRE by A.J. Ranney 🚒🔥
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 STARS!
Zack Stoer is cocky, charming, frustrating, and has the kind of golden retriever energy that makes it VERY hard to stay annoyed with him! 😂🔥
I absolutely loved watching these two go from off-limits frenemies to something neither of them could ignore. Their banter, chemistry, and constant push-and-pull had me hooked from the start! ❤️🔥
The golden retriever/black cat dynamic was SO much fun, and the enemies-to-lovers vibes were everything! Zack was definitely a favorite, and I loved seeing the softer side of him come out as their relationship started to change.
And the romance wasn’t the only thing keeping me turning the pages! The suspense surrounding the serial arsonist added just the right amount of tension and kept me guessing. 🔥👀
If you love small-town romance, firefighters, enemies-to-lovers, workplace romance, golden retriever/black cat, and a touch of suspense, you definitely need to add Calling a Cease Fire to your TBR! 📚❤️
A.J. Ranney delivered a fun, steamy, emotional romance with characters I couldn’t help but root for! 🥰🔥
5 ⭐️ from me!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 STARS!
Zack Stoer is cocky, charming, frustrating, and has the kind of golden retriever energy that makes it VERY hard to stay annoyed with him! 😂🔥
I absolutely loved watching these two go from off-limits frenemies to something neither of them could ignore. Their banter, chemistry, and constant push-and-pull had me hooked from the start! ❤️🔥
The golden retriever/black cat dynamic was SO much fun, and the enemies-to-lovers vibes were everything! Zack was definitely a favorite, and I loved seeing the softer side of him come out as their relationship started to change.
And the romance wasn’t the only thing keeping me turning the pages! The suspense surrounding the serial arsonist added just the right amount of tension and kept me guessing. 🔥👀
If you love small-town romance, firefighters, enemies-to-lovers, workplace romance, golden retriever/black cat, and a touch of suspense, you definitely need to add Calling a Cease Fire to your TBR! 📚❤️
A.J. Ranney delivered a fun, steamy, emotional romance with characters I couldn’t help but root for! 🥰🔥
5 ⭐️ from me!
Review of advance copy received from Author
OBSESSED with Zack Stoer, just as much as he is obsessed with Mia! If you looked up golden retriever MMC, right next to it, would be a picture of Zack. He is the ultimate puppy for our black cat Mia. Was it a red flag that he was making promises he couldn't keep? Nope, not when the promise was not to fall in love with her, because he was already half way there when she asked.
Mia doesn't do commitment, shes too jaded for that but Zack was not afraid to put in the hard work to scale those walls, and boy did he mount them - smashed them to smitheries before she could even catch her breath - their connection and chemistry was off the charts and their banter was bantering.
We follow the crew as they finally get to the bottom of the arsonist targeting them and that was a little scary too, it hurts when they hurt your own. Loved book 4, a standalone in an interconnecting series of ridiculously hot firemen and their sassy women they fall for.
I voluntarily reviewed a free advance copy of this book provided by the author. The opinions expressed are my own
Mia doesn't do commitment, shes too jaded for that but Zack was not afraid to put in the hard work to scale those walls, and boy did he mount them - smashed them to smitheries before she could even catch her breath - their connection and chemistry was off the charts and their banter was bantering.
We follow the crew as they finally get to the bottom of the arsonist targeting them and that was a little scary too, it hurts when they hurt your own. Loved book 4, a standalone in an interconnecting series of ridiculously hot firemen and their sassy women they fall for.
I voluntarily reviewed a free advance copy of this book provided by the author. The opinions expressed are my own
August 24, 2026
“I didn’t understand how I could find him so annoying, but my body still seemed to betray me anytime he was around. That just pissed me off even more.”
Zack and Mia’s best friends are in an our relationship so they’re usually around each other. Mia is not looking for anything serious but yet she can’t seem to ignore Zack either.
They can’t deny the chemistry between them but they also want different things, until the one night they couldn’t say no anymore. Could Zack be the one that breaks down Mia’s walls and show her what it’s like to love?
Love the banter between Mia and Zack. Zack is just an all around good guy who loves to sing out loud and watch cat videos. He’s patient and loyal and just who exactly Mia needs. They balance each other so well.
It’s a slow burn friends to lovers that’s oh so worth the wait!
If you love small town, opposites attract romance between a golden retriever hero and a black cat heroine then you need to read this book! This is book 4 in the series but there is a series long mystery so make sure to read the other books in the series as well!
Zack and Mia’s best friends are in an our relationship so they’re usually around each other. Mia is not looking for anything serious but yet she can’t seem to ignore Zack either.
They can’t deny the chemistry between them but they also want different things, until the one night they couldn’t say no anymore. Could Zack be the one that breaks down Mia’s walls and show her what it’s like to love?
Love the banter between Mia and Zack. Zack is just an all around good guy who loves to sing out loud and watch cat videos. He’s patient and loyal and just who exactly Mia needs. They balance each other so well.
It’s a slow burn friends to lovers that’s oh so worth the wait!
If you love small town, opposites attract romance between a golden retriever hero and a black cat heroine then you need to read this book! This is book 4 in the series but there is a series long mystery so make sure to read the other books in the series as well!
August 21, 2026
Saying this book hit exactly how I had hoped is an understatement, Zach has been the comic relief and trouble maker the entire series. From saying the ‘Q’ word to poking at Mia every chance he gets he really is the bubbly golden retriever that everyone hates to love. But he is also so much more than that. He truly sees Mia for everything she is and everything she hides. Every bad shift, every time she is to hard on herself and every time she feels like she doesn’t belong. Zach sees her. Zach cares in the only ways she will allow him to. The respect that he shows her melts your heart. When the protective side comes out you know that he would do anything to keep her safe. ANYTHING. And when you have a group like the firefighters in Half Moon Lake you know. not a single person will be left behind, because firefighter, cop, EMT or even dispatch. they are a family. I have loved every moment of getting to know.
August 21, 2026
I am sad this series is over - I have loved getting to know the men a women around the fire station and call center. I appreciated that not everyone was a firefighter and that it focused on the different parts of the team. As for Zach and Mia, Ioved these two. Zach is thoughtful and kind. I loved his boyish charm around his jeep and how he just wanted to help people. Mia is my girl crush. I loved how she is good at everything, and caries that confidence. She has walls up, but it just because she feels everything. This book gave me a new perspective on the dispatchers and how hard it is to disassociate from the job. There is a particular scene that really was my ah-ha moment and I now have a greater appreciation for them. But it isn’t all serious. These two do get to have some fun…and some FUN 😉. Slow burn is an understatement. Can’t wait to see what is next! 5/5 ⭐️4/5 🌶️
I received an advanced copy of this book.
I received an advanced copy of this book.
September 22, 2026
Calling a Cease-Fire book 4 of the Half Moon Lake Heroes The Red Line Series.
I am so sad that this is the end for this crew, I have fallen in love with each story but I think Zach and Mia are my favorite.
The way Zach was able to show her that she can love someone else and do it so effortlessly. I loved watching Mia and Zach evolve their relationship the most, and even though it was supposed to be just a short agreement they both felt head over and heels and love effortlessly, and I think they are what both needed at the time. Even though Mia says she doesn’t fall in love.
I love me and Zach story but finally getting an ending of two who was the arsonist and why they were doing it and the amount of risk that this boy made just to get back what was taken from him even though his life is now taken from him for the decisions he made.
I am excited to see what comes next for AJ, maybe Savannah and Miles?? 😉😉
I am so sad that this is the end for this crew, I have fallen in love with each story but I think Zach and Mia are my favorite.
The way Zach was able to show her that she can love someone else and do it so effortlessly. I loved watching Mia and Zach evolve their relationship the most, and even though it was supposed to be just a short agreement they both felt head over and heels and love effortlessly, and I think they are what both needed at the time. Even though Mia says she doesn’t fall in love.
I love me and Zach story but finally getting an ending of two who was the arsonist and why they were doing it and the amount of risk that this boy made just to get back what was taken from him even though his life is now taken from him for the decisions he made.
I am excited to see what comes next for AJ, maybe Savannah and Miles?? 😉😉
August 31, 2026
"We're all a little damaged. Doesn't mean you're not a good person. Even beautiful flowers have thorns."
⭐⭐⭐.5
I really enjoyed Mia and Zack in this one.
I was a bit confused as to why they were "enemies"?
Seeing their relationship develop and Zack slowly but surely break through Mia's walls was so good.
"I wanted all of her. Every single fucking thorn and the beautiful flower that I suspected lay beneath."
This one has an overarching mystery througuhout the four books, and we see it resolved in this final instalment.
I felt this resolution left a bit to be desired; but I still had an enjoyable time readng and seeing everyone's character development.
"My face must have made an involuntary weird expression. It was hard to turn my visual subtitles off"
A super quick read in a day!
Thank you, AJ Ranney, for the opportunity to read this eARC!
⭐⭐⭐.5
I really enjoyed Mia and Zack in this one.
I was a bit confused as to why they were "enemies"?
Seeing their relationship develop and Zack slowly but surely break through Mia's walls was so good.
"I wanted all of her. Every single fucking thorn and the beautiful flower that I suspected lay beneath."
This one has an overarching mystery througuhout the four books, and we see it resolved in this final instalment.
I felt this resolution left a bit to be desired; but I still had an enjoyable time readng and seeing everyone's character development.
"My face must have made an involuntary weird expression. It was hard to turn my visual subtitles off"
A super quick read in a day!
Thank you, AJ Ranney, for the opportunity to read this eARC!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Calling a Cease-Fire by AJ Ranney is the fourth and final book in the Half Moon Lake Heroes: The Red Line series and is set in the same town as Ranney's Half Moon Lake books. A few of the characters from the Half Moon Lake series have parts in this book, which was enjoyable to read. The main characters in the book are Zack Stoer, a firefighter, and Mia Carpenter, the emergency dispatch. The book is an enemy/lovers/secretly dating romance that is cute and predictable. The book is also a continuation of the arson mystery that is plaguing Half Moon Lake. I really liked the friendly banter between all the characters in the book. If you are looking for an easy to read, cute romance with a bit of spice, then I recommend this book.
August 17, 2026
4.5 ⭐️
This has to be one of the best golden retriever x black cat books yet. Zach and Mia were so easy to love. There story was perfect even if annoying each other, having so much tension and bickering all the time then found themselves falling for each other. Zach fell hard and fast. Mia wanted nothing to do with love but after realizing the what ifs and if something happened to Zach she realized she loved him. I love the found family and seeing all the other character from other books. The added suspense to find the arsonist and finally finding him was top tier. This book was so good.
Tropes
Firefighter x dispatcher
Golden retriever x black cat
Suspense
Found family
Small town
Thank you AJ for the ARC!
This has to be one of the best golden retriever x black cat books yet. Zach and Mia were so easy to love. There story was perfect even if annoying each other, having so much tension and bickering all the time then found themselves falling for each other. Zach fell hard and fast. Mia wanted nothing to do with love but after realizing the what ifs and if something happened to Zach she realized she loved him. I love the found family and seeing all the other character from other books. The added suspense to find the arsonist and finally finding him was top tier. This book was so good.
Tropes
Firefighter x dispatcher
Golden retriever x black cat
Suspense
Found family
Small town
Thank you AJ for the ARC!
August 18, 2026
I have loved this series and these characters, but I have to say that I think Zack & Mia just might be my favorite. There’s something about a black cat x golden retriever. 🐈⬛🦮🫠 Zack is a firefighter working at the Half Moon Lakes FD 🚒 and Mia is a 911 operator. Their best friends are best friends, the workplace forced proximity, the push & pull, the snarky banter, and the palpable on-page heat 🥵 & chemistry that A.J. has harnessed so well makes this one not to miss!! Zack is the quintessential golden retriever with angst and yearning, who falls first, and will do anything for Mia. All set amidst the ongoing theme of a serial arsonist 🔥 on the loose! This is so much more than a typical romance, and I was glued to every addicting page! Thank you so much to A.J. Ranney and Butterfly PA Services for the opportunity to review this e-ARC. I received a gifted advance review copy for free and am leaving my honest review voluntarily.
August 22, 2026
The tension between Mia and Zack has been sizzling for a while and I loved watching it burn!!
Mia’s black cat energy was the perfect balance to Zack’s golden retriever energy. These two were so much fun. They constantly had me cackling with their banter. Their chemistry was off the charts and the tension was hottt. Zack gave Mia a safe place to lay her armor down and finally find her happiness.
The suspense throughout this series has been so good and kept me on the edge of my seat trying to figure it out! I loved seeing this case come to a close and this crew finally able to move on.
❤️🔥 Black cat FMC
❤️🔥 Work place romance
❤️🔥 Enemies to lovers
❤️🔥 Golden retriever MMC
❤️🔥 Opposites attract
Mia’s black cat energy was the perfect balance to Zack’s golden retriever energy. These two were so much fun. They constantly had me cackling with their banter. Their chemistry was off the charts and the tension was hottt. Zack gave Mia a safe place to lay her armor down and finally find her happiness.
The suspense throughout this series has been so good and kept me on the edge of my seat trying to figure it out! I loved seeing this case come to a close and this crew finally able to move on.
❤️🔥 Black cat FMC
❤️🔥 Work place romance
❤️🔥 Enemies to lovers
❤️🔥 Golden retriever MMC
❤️🔥 Opposites attract
August 23, 2026
“I hadn't just found the love I'd been looking for. I'd found home.”
I absolutely loved Mia and Zack. The banter between them was so much fun!
I really enjoyed seeing them fall head over heels in love with each other, all while trying to fight their feelings. And the moment that Mia realized she couldn't keep lying to herself was both heartbreaking and beautiful.
I enjoyed seeing the arsonist mystery be resolved. And I will say, I loved how afterwards, the guys were able to laugh about how it all went down. I really loved this group and can't wait to see what AJ will come up with next.
Quote: “For someone who once believed forever wasn't meant for them, I'd somehow found exactly where I was supposed to be. And I couldn't wait to see what came next.”
I absolutely loved Mia and Zack. The banter between them was so much fun!
I really enjoyed seeing them fall head over heels in love with each other, all while trying to fight their feelings. And the moment that Mia realized she couldn't keep lying to herself was both heartbreaking and beautiful.
I enjoyed seeing the arsonist mystery be resolved. And I will say, I loved how afterwards, the guys were able to laugh about how it all went down. I really loved this group and can't wait to see what AJ will come up with next.
Quote: “For someone who once believed forever wasn't meant for them, I'd somehow found exactly where I was supposed to be. And I couldn't wait to see what came next.”
August 25, 2026
Vixens, ravens & kittens
I loved Zack, he was the perfect combination of fun, playful, caring, possessive and dominant. He cared deeply and wasn’t scared of commitment.
Mia had reservations about live and forever and made sure everyone knew she wasn’t a relationship type of girl.
These two butted heads frequently, and their banter was wonderful.
I loved the found family aspect and how they all rallied for each other.
The arsonist mystery took more of a back seat in this romance, but when he made an appearance it was dramatic and dangerous.
This has action, sassy banter, lots of steam after a slow burn, character growth and Lita of emotional ups and downs.
A brilliant addition to the series.
I loved Zack, he was the perfect combination of fun, playful, caring, possessive and dominant. He cared deeply and wasn’t scared of commitment.
Mia had reservations about live and forever and made sure everyone knew she wasn’t a relationship type of girl.
These two butted heads frequently, and their banter was wonderful.
I loved the found family aspect and how they all rallied for each other.
The arsonist mystery took more of a back seat in this romance, but when he made an appearance it was dramatic and dangerous.
This has action, sassy banter, lots of steam after a slow burn, character growth and Lita of emotional ups and downs.
A brilliant addition to the series.
August 31, 2026
4.5⭐
Book 4 ,final book of the half moon lake heros: the red line.
Zack and Mia they dislike each other from the beginning and always pick on each other but can tolerate each other because they both have the same friends. But then Zack shows up for Mia when she needs someone to lean onto after having a bad day.
A.J's writing is so well done and keeps you on your toes with the suspense in this series. There is an arsonist running around town but between the police and FD they can't seem to catch him and he keep stalking the fire department....Will they catch who is doing this?..Will Zack and Mia fall for each other or will they just be friends?
Go grab this series and find out.... Please read books 1-3 first as you learn about the other charters and about the arsonist.
Book 4 ,final book of the half moon lake heros: the red line.
Zack and Mia they dislike each other from the beginning and always pick on each other but can tolerate each other because they both have the same friends. But then Zack shows up for Mia when she needs someone to lean onto after having a bad day.
A.J's writing is so well done and keeps you on your toes with the suspense in this series. There is an arsonist running around town but between the police and FD they can't seem to catch him and he keep stalking the fire department....Will they catch who is doing this?..Will Zack and Mia fall for each other or will they just be friends?
Go grab this series and find out.... Please read books 1-3 first as you learn about the other charters and about the arsonist.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Calling a Cease Fire has mischievous Zack's world completely rocked by Mia. These two bring the banter, flirting, and testing of each other's patience to the next level.
Throw in an arsonist and friends who don't think they fit together, and they certainly have their work cut out for them. The roadblocks Mia throws up have you groaning, while the way Zack schemes will have you laughing.
There are a whole load of emotional lessons they each have to work through while the danger from the arsonist continues to loom. It's all about love with a dash of danger, plenty of banter, and two people who have to figure out if they can finally call a ceasefire.
Throw in an arsonist and friends who don't think they fit together, and they certainly have their work cut out for them. The roadblocks Mia throws up have you groaning, while the way Zack schemes will have you laughing.
There are a whole load of emotional lessons they each have to work through while the danger from the arsonist continues to loom. It's all about love with a dash of danger, plenty of banter, and two people who have to figure out if they can finally call a ceasefire.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Fighting their Feelings -
I couldn’t help but enjoy reading Zack and Mia’s slow burn journey from nemesis through to finally acknowledging the connection between them, that allowed them to have a chance at a happily ever after. Even though the slow build romance between Zack and Mia was exciting, it was also frustrating to watch, as they tried with immense difficulty to navigate their feelings. Thankfully, Zack and Mia finally discovered their true feeling after so many longing looks and stolen touches, as they fought the inevitable and what everyone else around them already knew.
I received an advanced review copy of this book and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
I couldn’t help but enjoy reading Zack and Mia’s slow burn journey from nemesis through to finally acknowledging the connection between them, that allowed them to have a chance at a happily ever after. Even though the slow build romance between Zack and Mia was exciting, it was also frustrating to watch, as they tried with immense difficulty to navigate their feelings. Thankfully, Zack and Mia finally discovered their true feeling after so many longing looks and stolen touches, as they fought the inevitable and what everyone else around them already knew.
I received an advanced review copy of this book and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Zack has always teased Mia when they are out with their mutual group of friends. But chemistry between them develops when they are tasked with researching a venue for a bachelor/bachelorette party for their friends. Mia is averse to any type of committed relationship but Zack is extremely persistent. As they spend more time together, Mia sees a different side to Zack realising that he is really kind and considerate. Zack eventually admits his deep feelings for Mia which scares her off. However, when Zack is injured at work, Mia can no longer deny that her feelings for him are just as strong. Another great addition to this fabulous series.
August 21, 2026
4.5 stars This story is now among my top picks for a black cat x golden retriever romance! I appreciated how it also shed light on the important and very stressful roles of dispatchers, paramedics and firefighters…and the toll their positions have on their mental health. And I liked that there was an underlying suspense subplot too! The slow-burn, enemies-to-lovers, spicy romance between Zack and Mia was full of witty banter and thick with tension. The characters and plot were believable and relatable, and their story was a quick, enjoyable read and a great conclusion to the Half Moon Lakes Heroes series.
Thanks to the author for the eARC
Thanks to the author for the eARC
August 22, 2026
The way I’m head over heels for Zack!! I loved every second of Zack & Mia! These two are such opposites, and I ate up the banter between them!! They start out not liking each other, but we all know it’s a thin line between love and hate, and oh did Zack fall hard and fast!! I loved the way he showed up for Mia, the way he managed to always know what she needed. The man is such a golden retriever, and I’m here for it. I loved watching Mia’s walls come down and letting herself fall too! The suspense from this entire series has kept me on my toes, and I loved the continuation of the arsonist story! I’ve really enjoyed this whole series!
[ARC review]
[ARC review]
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