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Needed
I just woke up in the arms of a firefighter after I fainted at my daughter's school.
I've been running on four hours of sleep for weeks, grading papers until midnight, and waking up early to get my daughter ready for school.
I was taking my lunch break in the teacher's lounge when Mrs. Patterson swung the cabinet door open without looking, and it smacked me right in the temple.
Suddenly, I opened my eyes, and I was being cradled in the massive arms of a firefighter, and everyone in the lounge was staring down at me.
He's famous in our town, and all the other teachers want to date him.
I heard the them whispering his name as he lifted me off the floor.
Then I heard Mrs. Patterson laugh and say, "That's probably the closest she's ever been to a man."
He looked down at me and growled loud enough for all of them to hear,
"Are we still on for dinner tonight at seven, Ms. Cummins?"
I've been running on four hours of sleep for weeks, grading papers until midnight, and waking up early to get my daughter ready for school.
I was taking my lunch break in the teacher's lounge when Mrs. Patterson swung the cabinet door open without looking, and it smacked me right in the temple.
Suddenly, I opened my eyes, and I was being cradled in the massive arms of a firefighter, and everyone in the lounge was staring down at me.
He's famous in our town, and all the other teachers want to date him.
I heard the them whispering his name as he lifted me off the floor.
Then I heard Mrs. Patterson laugh and say, "That's probably the closest she's ever been to a man."
He looked down at me and growled loud enough for all of them to hear,
"Are we still on for dinner tonight at seven, Ms. Cummins?"
262 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 6, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 109 reviews
March 26, 2026
Holy inconsistencies and redundancies!
I read a few reviews before I decided to take the plunge and I was hoping they were exaggerating.... Newsflash: They weren't.
There will be spoilers down the way, btw.
I don't know how old Zoe's dad was when Maya got pregnant - maybe 17, perhaps 19. Who knows?
I also don't know if I can handle reading any more of the same sentences back to back. Literally verbatim the same exact sentence. And then sometimes, a secondary sentence with one word changed. 🤦🏼♀️
The amount of redundancies in this book knows no bound. And man, did it ever get old! I'd read something in one paragraph, only to read almost the exact same in the next one. And then have to go back to make sure I wasn't losing my mind (I wasn't).
And then the end, when he proposed (not surprising spoiler alert) and he's gushing about how she walked into a burning building to save a lost soul (aka the arsonist), I was thinking, um. No. She didn't. She was trying to leave said burning building and came across him and talked him down. That's not the same. Then, later in the book, she had the same thing mentioned again - how she walked into a burning building to save a lost soul. (See what I did there? Annoying to read the same thing more than once huh? Now you feel the pain of everyone who's read this book on a much smaller scale). Anywho, I digress. It wasn't true the first time and wasn't true the second time either. Sigh.
I really liked Zoe and Shane overall. But I also didn't like Maya. So that didn't help in my enjoyment of the book. At the beginning she was good. But then when she ended things (come on now, we know there's gotta be some drama in there for them to overcome), and totally ghosted him, I thought she was an immature idiot who didn't even give him the chance to explain. Even after he saved her sorry butt in the burning building that HE DID, in fact, enter to save her and that lost soul. She still ghosted him for like 5 weeks or something stupid. I don't do well with stupid women in books. I like strong characters or characters that grow and she was neither.
I am curious enough to read the next book since this one is on a cliffhanger. But I'm sure I'll find plenty of annoyances with that one too. Maybe I'll take better notes during it for my review. 🤔 We'll see.
I read a few reviews before I decided to take the plunge and I was hoping they were exaggerating.... Newsflash: They weren't.
There will be spoilers down the way, btw.
I don't know how old Zoe's dad was when Maya got pregnant - maybe 17, perhaps 19. Who knows?
I also don't know if I can handle reading any more of the same sentences back to back. Literally verbatim the same exact sentence. And then sometimes, a secondary sentence with one word changed. 🤦🏼♀️
The amount of redundancies in this book knows no bound. And man, did it ever get old! I'd read something in one paragraph, only to read almost the exact same in the next one. And then have to go back to make sure I wasn't losing my mind (I wasn't).
And then the end, when he proposed (not surprising spoiler alert) and he's gushing about how she walked into a burning building to save a lost soul (aka the arsonist), I was thinking, um. No. She didn't. She was trying to leave said burning building and came across him and talked him down. That's not the same. Then, later in the book, she had the same thing mentioned again - how she walked into a burning building to save a lost soul. (See what I did there? Annoying to read the same thing more than once huh? Now you feel the pain of everyone who's read this book on a much smaller scale). Anywho, I digress. It wasn't true the first time and wasn't true the second time either. Sigh.
I really liked Zoe and Shane overall. But I also didn't like Maya. So that didn't help in my enjoyment of the book. At the beginning she was good. But then when she ended things (come on now, we know there's gotta be some drama in there for them to overcome), and totally ghosted him, I thought she was an immature idiot who didn't even give him the chance to explain. Even after he saved her sorry butt in the burning building that HE DID, in fact, enter to save her and that lost soul. She still ghosted him for like 5 weeks or something stupid. I don't do well with stupid women in books. I like strong characters or characters that grow and she was neither.
I am curious enough to read the next book since this one is on a cliffhanger. But I'm sure I'll find plenty of annoyances with that one too. Maybe I'll take better notes during it for my review. 🤔 We'll see.
March 12, 2026
3.5 out of 5
This is a sweet book and I’m glad I read but s also glad I got it on KU as it doesn’t quite reach reread status. Sorry but I completely forget the names of the two main characters but she is a teacher and struggling mother of one cute little girl and he’s a hot firefighter who became somewhat famous when his calendar picture went viral and he became THE bachelor. He lived the decadent lifestyle for a while. But at heart he’s kind of an old fashioned guy and just wanted someone to ‘see’ him as who he really happened. He gets his chance when he’s dropping something off at the school our heroine teaches at. She’s hit in the side of the head, goes down and our heroine teaches at comes to help her. He’s instantly smitten and wants to start a relationship but she had a bad experience with her daughter’s father and is very hesitant to let down her walls.
As I said I’m glad I read this one and since it’s on KU, I recommend it if you’re looking for something with a bit of a fairytale vibe to it.
This is a sweet book and I’m glad I read but s also glad I got it on KU as it doesn’t quite reach reread status. Sorry but I completely forget the names of the two main characters but she is a teacher and struggling mother of one cute little girl and he’s a hot firefighter who became somewhat famous when his calendar picture went viral and he became THE bachelor. He lived the decadent lifestyle for a while. But at heart he’s kind of an old fashioned guy and just wanted someone to ‘see’ him as who he really happened. He gets his chance when he’s dropping something off at the school our heroine teaches at. She’s hit in the side of the head, goes down and our heroine teaches at comes to help her. He’s instantly smitten and wants to start a relationship but she had a bad experience with her daughter’s father and is very hesitant to let down her walls.
As I said I’m glad I read this one and since it’s on KU, I recommend it if you’re looking for something with a bit of a fairytale vibe to it.
March 8, 2026
I chose this one because of an ad on FB describing the meet-cute where the FMC wakes from a blow to the head with a hot firefighter rendering aid. He starts a fake dating ruse to shut up her c*nty co-workers who are making mean-girl comments.
Unfortunately, for me this is where the book peaked. The FMC quickly dispels the dating rumor the moment she gets back to work, so the fun of what seemed like a fake dating trope only lasts about 3 pages. Everything that follows is boring and basic. Seriously, the plain white rice of romance novels. The banter is dry, flirting is non existent and the spice is meh. I didn't feel like either MC gave much in terms of personality. He's supposed to be a former bad boy but I didn't see it. The plot itself seems paint by numbers predictable so I DNF'd at 54%... however, reading other reviews it looks like there is some kind of twist and a cliffhanger ?? But it just wasn't interesting enough for me to stay with it.
Unfortunately, for me this is where the book peaked. The FMC quickly dispels the dating rumor the moment she gets back to work, so the fun of what seemed like a fake dating trope only lasts about 3 pages. Everything that follows is boring and basic. Seriously, the plain white rice of romance novels. The banter is dry, flirting is non existent and the spice is meh. I didn't feel like either MC gave much in terms of personality. He's supposed to be a former bad boy but I didn't see it. The plot itself seems paint by numbers predictable so I DNF'd at 54%... however, reading other reviews it looks like there is some kind of twist and a cliffhanger ?? But it just wasn't interesting enough for me to stay with it.
February 22, 2026
(Not really) Needed
A good love story with a jerk turned Hero. Maya has low self esteem from past people shooting her down, she's a teen mom, who's boyfriend/husband finally rejected her. Her parents turned her away, yet, she raises the daughter while getting teaching degree, and becoming a teacher. Not sure where the doubts come from. Shane is the (very) pretty fireman, who was doing his job and now he's every woman's heartthrob. There's the social media tripe that Maya doesn't know she doesn't have to believe. It ends with a cliffhanger ... What?!? ok. Onto book two
A good love story with a jerk turned Hero. Maya has low self esteem from past people shooting her down, she's a teen mom, who's boyfriend/husband finally rejected her. Her parents turned her away, yet, she raises the daughter while getting teaching degree, and becoming a teacher. Not sure where the doubts come from. Shane is the (very) pretty fireman, who was doing his job and now he's every woman's heartthrob. There's the social media tripe that Maya doesn't know she doesn't have to believe. It ends with a cliffhanger ... What?!? ok. Onto book two
July 2, 2026
This is an Amazing Book!!
I just finished Needed by Hannah Sparks, and gave it 4.5 out of 5 stars.
I absolutely loved the relationship between Maya and Shane. Their chemistry was incredible, and every interaction between them felt genuine and heartfelt. Shane showed up for Maya in every possible way, and I honestly think he’s one of the best examples of healthy masculinity I’ve read in a romance. I also loved how deeply he cared for her and how consistently he made her feel safe, supported, and loved. What made me love him even more was the way he showed up for Zoe, Maya’s daughter. He treated her like she was his own, loved her unconditionally, and never made her feel like anything less than family. Watching him step into that role so naturally made their relationship even more meaningful.
My only real issue with the book was Tommy’s storyline. I felt like it didn’t get enough resolution. I really wanted to know what his sentencing was, whether he was ever going to be released, and what ultimately happened with his life. It felt like that part of the story ended a little too abruptly, especially considering how important it was to the overall plot.
Overall, though, this was an amazing read. The romance was beautiful, the emotional moments hit hard, and Maya and Shane’s relationship made this an easy 4.5-star book for me.
I just finished Needed by Hannah Sparks, and gave it 4.5 out of 5 stars.
I absolutely loved the relationship between Maya and Shane. Their chemistry was incredible, and every interaction between them felt genuine and heartfelt. Shane showed up for Maya in every possible way, and I honestly think he’s one of the best examples of healthy masculinity I’ve read in a romance. I also loved how deeply he cared for her and how consistently he made her feel safe, supported, and loved. What made me love him even more was the way he showed up for Zoe, Maya’s daughter. He treated her like she was his own, loved her unconditionally, and never made her feel like anything less than family. Watching him step into that role so naturally made their relationship even more meaningful.
My only real issue with the book was Tommy’s storyline. I felt like it didn’t get enough resolution. I really wanted to know what his sentencing was, whether he was ever going to be released, and what ultimately happened with his life. It felt like that part of the story ended a little too abruptly, especially considering how important it was to the overall plot.
Overall, though, this was an amazing read. The romance was beautiful, the emotional moments hit hard, and Maya and Shane’s relationship made this an easy 4.5-star book for me.
September 8, 2026
I picked this one up on KU after seeing an ad with the meet-cute. As someone whose career is in editing, I am 99% sure most of this book was written by AI. The way the inconsistencies are and the tone scream that it wasn't written by only a human. Each chapter/section ends in SUCH an AI voice that I started keeping track of it happened every time. And the inconsistencies were things that an author writing a book would catch because they were either major timeline things or were on the same page. Like one page saying that Maya and Shane had been hanging out for three weeks and then the next page saying it had only been one week. My deepest apologies to the author if the book did not use AI (all the ads and posts on the author's instagram for it are AI though 🙃). The author should probably find a better proofreader and/or beta readers. This felt like someone who went "I know how to make some money," asked AI to write each scene, and then threw in on KU. The idea for the book was cute, but it really fell flat.
July 1, 2026
The troubled kid “flinched when anyone moved too fast.” Just in case you missed it the first time he was “small for his age, flinching when adults moved too fast.” You forgot? It’s okay 5 pages later we’re told he’s “Small for his age, quiet and watchful, the kind of kid who flinched when anyone moved too fast.” If it still hasn’t sunk in just 3 pages later we get the information that he’s “Small for his age. Flinching when adults moved too fast.” Hey, do you finally understand that “he flinched when anyone moved too fast.”?!?!?
It ends on a cliffhanger of the MMC being warned to ‘back off’ and their family being threatened. BUT HE WASN’T DOING ANAYTHING. He wasn’t a cop/pi/fire investigator investigating something. There was no mystery, question or crime he was looking into. Nothing.
It ends on a cliffhanger of the MMC being warned to ‘back off’ and their family being threatened. BUT HE WASN’T DOING ANAYTHING. He wasn’t a cop/pi/fire investigator investigating something. There was no mystery, question or crime he was looking into. Nothing.
March 17, 2026
Easy, predictable love story- that was fine… but the blatant inconsistencies were beyond annoying. Mainly time lines and character ages. Early in the book, the FMC was 17 and her ex 19 when she got pregnant. Later in the book they are both said to be 17 when it happens. A character is described as wearing grey sweatpants and a white t-shirt, then a few short sentences later his tears hit his orange jumpsuit… ?!?!
April 10, 2026
you know the saying that meeting could have been an email... This novel could have been a novella. A LOT of repetition and unneeded extras.
The story was cute bur probably won't continue with the series.
The story was cute bur probably won't continue with the series.
April 25, 2026
I would have given it 4 stars but it hit my least favourite childish pet peeve.
March 16, 2026
one of the best authors that I have ever read.
This was a new author for me. I am prepared to binge now. She made me laugh, cry, and laugh again. I read a lot. A whole lot! This was an amazing read. Had depth. Had meaning, not just a fluff read. Hannah Sparks, you have naw reader. Next book now!!!!❤️
This was a new author for me. I am prepared to binge now. She made me laugh, cry, and laugh again. I read a lot. A whole lot! This was an amazing read. Had depth. Had meaning, not just a fluff read. Hannah Sparks, you have naw reader. Next book now!!!!❤️
March 4, 2026
love it
Aww what can I say what a lovely book from start to finish.. someone who doesn’t give up
And walk away when the going gets too tough for them.. despite being given the opportunity and fighting for the people they love.. a really good feel good story no strong sex scenes just tenderness and love..
Aww what can I say what a lovely book from start to finish.. someone who doesn’t give up
And walk away when the going gets too tough for them.. despite being given the opportunity and fighting for the people they love.. a really good feel good story no strong sex scenes just tenderness and love..
September 29, 2026
engaging but weirdly repetitive.
First of all, gotta put out here straight off the bat for anyone that this book is not spicy. 🚫🌶️
At least not open door. There’s implication that that’s what’s happening but we don’t get to experience it with them. I’m trying not to hold that against it because not everybody wants to see the spice. I am not one of those people lol. It does kind of make things a little more boring though.
Overall the book was sweet and engaging but not very exciting. Which is kind of saying something considering there’s an actual argument of danger he’s a firefighter. It should lead to lots of exciting moments but it does not. Some people might like a very quiet Sweet story with no fanfare, I’m not one of those people. At least, if I’m reading a story that involves a firefighter I’m going to assume that it’s going to be a little more suspenseful and dangerous and protection needed, etc. And there are elements of that in this book, they just somehow don’t move the needle and you never get to the point of the story being exciting.
The writing style is very staccato and minimal. Shane is ok but a lot of the story is told from his perspective and we never see a lot of the FMC’s actual personality. So she seems kind of boring. Like she’s not a fully fleshed out person. It’s like all of the personality and character Work was done on him and none on her. But I really loved the relationship between Shane and Mya’s daughter. It felt very authentic and her character did as well. We don’t take a deep dive into that character or anything as she isn’t one of the main characters but it feels like a real teenage girl whereas I feel like some authors don’t write children very realistically.
There are whole chapters in scenes that don’t actually contribute to the storyline or the relationship at all. There’s also this weird idea that a firefighter would be part of a protection detail? It makes no sense.
The biggest issue I have though is repetition. There are certain ideas and descriptions that are just repeated sometimes four times through throughout a short portion of the book, almost like the author forgot that they put that in already. In some books it’s done with intention for effect but this came off feeling like it didn’t really have a purpose. There was actually a paragraph with two whole sentences just repeated, clearly an error that no one noticed during editing.
Overall not bad. I did find myself wishing they would hurry up and wrap up and I feel like this probably could’ve been at least 50 pages shorter. I might read the next one but I would give it this to be kind of a throwaway something to read when you’re bored and you need a book that you can just come and pick up and put down throughout the day to fill time rather than something you need to be completely committed to because of the build and the climax, etc.
First of all, gotta put out here straight off the bat for anyone that this book is not spicy. 🚫🌶️
At least not open door. There’s implication that that’s what’s happening but we don’t get to experience it with them. I’m trying not to hold that against it because not everybody wants to see the spice. I am not one of those people lol. It does kind of make things a little more boring though.
Overall the book was sweet and engaging but not very exciting. Which is kind of saying something considering there’s an actual argument of danger he’s a firefighter. It should lead to lots of exciting moments but it does not. Some people might like a very quiet Sweet story with no fanfare, I’m not one of those people. At least, if I’m reading a story that involves a firefighter I’m going to assume that it’s going to be a little more suspenseful and dangerous and protection needed, etc. And there are elements of that in this book, they just somehow don’t move the needle and you never get to the point of the story being exciting.
The writing style is very staccato and minimal. Shane is ok but a lot of the story is told from his perspective and we never see a lot of the FMC’s actual personality. So she seems kind of boring. Like she’s not a fully fleshed out person. It’s like all of the personality and character Work was done on him and none on her. But I really loved the relationship between Shane and Mya’s daughter. It felt very authentic and her character did as well. We don’t take a deep dive into that character or anything as she isn’t one of the main characters but it feels like a real teenage girl whereas I feel like some authors don’t write children very realistically.
There are whole chapters in scenes that don’t actually contribute to the storyline or the relationship at all. There’s also this weird idea that a firefighter would be part of a protection detail? It makes no sense.
The biggest issue I have though is repetition. There are certain ideas and descriptions that are just repeated sometimes four times through throughout a short portion of the book, almost like the author forgot that they put that in already. In some books it’s done with intention for effect but this came off feeling like it didn’t really have a purpose. There was actually a paragraph with two whole sentences just repeated, clearly an error that no one noticed during editing.
Overall not bad. I did find myself wishing they would hurry up and wrap up and I feel like this probably could’ve been at least 50 pages shorter. I might read the next one but I would give it this to be kind of a throwaway something to read when you’re bored and you need a book that you can just come and pick up and put down throughout the day to fill time rather than something you need to be completely committed to because of the build and the climax, etc.
February 24, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4/5) – A swoony, emotional start to the Heart on Fire series.
Needed, the first book in the Heart on Fire series, is a small-town romance that blends emotional vulnerability with undeniable chemistry. The story follows an overworked single mom who quite literally falls into the arms of the town’s most admired firefighter—a meet-cute that quickly sets the tone for a swoony, protective-hero romance.
Hannah Sparks leans into familiar but beloved tropes: the exhausted single mother, the small-town golden-boy firefighter, and the simmering tension between longing and insecurity. The heroine’s struggles with exhaustion, judgment from others, and self-doubt add emotional weight to the story. Her vulnerability feels relatable, especially for readers who appreciate heroines balancing parenthood and personal rediscovery.
The hero is very much the “alpha with a soft center” type—confident, protective, and direct about what he wants. Their chemistry sparks early, and the banter mixed with possessive energy will definitely appeal to readers who enjoy intense romantic dynamics. That said, some moments lean into dramatic dialogue and heightened emotional reactions that may feel over-the-top for readers who prefer subtlety.
The pacing moves quickly, with strong romantic momentum driving the plot. While the story focuses heavily on the central relationship, readers looking for deep subplots or complex external conflict may find it more character- than plot-driven.
Overall, Needed is a passionate, trope-filled small-town romance perfect for fans of protective firefighters, single-mom heroines, and fast-burning emotional connections. If you enjoy heartfelt vulnerability paired with bold declarations and small-town gossip drama, this book will likely hit the mark.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 4, 2026
I will preface this review by saying, I really liked this book. The plot potential was there. (Single mom/teacher meets super sexy firefighter who is looking for his forever)
The characters were likable and realistic. Maya is raising her 13 year old daughter, Zoe…and when she says things like this: “Now I got one-word answers, shrugs, and eye rolls that felt like slaps. She's thirteen, I reminded myself. This is normal.”, I felt this in my soul. She tells Shane that she doesn’t want to date, so he suggests friendship and continues to hold that line. It’s a matter of time before her walls start to crumble. But she keeps some guards up which leads to some 3rd act hurt.
Now my issue - holy repetition. Literal PARAGRAPHS are repeated, sometimes one page later. Like the author couldn’t think of something else and just verbatim copy/pasted. This was a short read (250ish pages) and literally, could have been even shorter without all the repetition. Even situations were repeated (at one point Shane is at the firehouse and Brian comes to talk to him in the equipment room - and then it happens the same way 2 chapters later). Not only is this shocking for a writer; but where is the editor? Did no one flag this in the publishing process???
And it’s sad, because like I said, there was SOOOOO much potential with the book. The plot was cute. There were some really great scenes (the Italian restaurant).
I’ll probably finish the series, but I’m not expecting much change. They are fast reads - I started this one at 3:30 and finished by 11, so if you are looking for an easy, quick read and can look past some garbage editing….you may enjoy this!
⭐️⭐️⭐️
📖: KU
The characters were likable and realistic. Maya is raising her 13 year old daughter, Zoe…and when she says things like this: “Now I got one-word answers, shrugs, and eye rolls that felt like slaps. She's thirteen, I reminded myself. This is normal.”, I felt this in my soul. She tells Shane that she doesn’t want to date, so he suggests friendship and continues to hold that line. It’s a matter of time before her walls start to crumble. But she keeps some guards up which leads to some 3rd act hurt.
Now my issue - holy repetition. Literal PARAGRAPHS are repeated, sometimes one page later. Like the author couldn’t think of something else and just verbatim copy/pasted. This was a short read (250ish pages) and literally, could have been even shorter without all the repetition. Even situations were repeated (at one point Shane is at the firehouse and Brian comes to talk to him in the equipment room - and then it happens the same way 2 chapters later). Not only is this shocking for a writer; but where is the editor? Did no one flag this in the publishing process???
And it’s sad, because like I said, there was SOOOOO much potential with the book. The plot was cute. There were some really great scenes (the Italian restaurant).
I’ll probably finish the series, but I’m not expecting much change. They are fast reads - I started this one at 3:30 and finished by 11, so if you are looking for an easy, quick read and can look past some garbage editing….you may enjoy this!
⭐️⭐️⭐️
📖: KU
June 12, 2026
3/5 ⭐️
This is a small-town romance featuring an overworked single mother Maya and the town’s most admired firefighter Shane. Blending familiar tropes-single mom, golden-boy hero, and plenty of longing and insecurity. The story has emotional vulnerability, strong chemistry and a heartfelt journey of self-rediscovery.
The hero is very much the “alpha with a soft center” type; confident, protective and direct about what he wants. The chemistry between the leads is immediate, and Shane and Zoe’s (her 11 yr old daughter) banter and intense attraction keep the romance engaging.
The pacing is fast with the relationship taking center stage from beginning to end. the romance is engaging and emotionally driven, but its more character-focused than plot-driven.
One aspect that frustrated me was how Maya handled the conflict near the end. She distances herself from Shane without offering him any explanation, ignores him even after he literally saves her from a fire and despite him being the first to extend an olive branch, the resolution largely consists of tears and reconciliation. I’m not someone who needs excessive groveling in romance novels, but in this case, a simple apology would have gone a long way. she had certainly been through a lot, but it felt like the story brushed past her accountability too quickly.
That said, Shane was easily one of the highlights of the book. He consistently demonstrated strong moral character, patience and genuine care, making him easy to root for throughout the story.
P.S. Be prepared for a cliffhanger ending that leads directly into Brian’s story.
This is a small-town romance featuring an overworked single mother Maya and the town’s most admired firefighter Shane. Blending familiar tropes-single mom, golden-boy hero, and plenty of longing and insecurity. The story has emotional vulnerability, strong chemistry and a heartfelt journey of self-rediscovery.
The hero is very much the “alpha with a soft center” type; confident, protective and direct about what he wants. The chemistry between the leads is immediate, and Shane and Zoe’s (her 11 yr old daughter) banter and intense attraction keep the romance engaging.
The pacing is fast with the relationship taking center stage from beginning to end. the romance is engaging and emotionally driven, but its more character-focused than plot-driven.
One aspect that frustrated me was how Maya handled the conflict near the end. She distances herself from Shane without offering him any explanation, ignores him even after he literally saves her from a fire and despite him being the first to extend an olive branch, the resolution largely consists of tears and reconciliation. I’m not someone who needs excessive groveling in romance novels, but in this case, a simple apology would have gone a long way. she had certainly been through a lot, but it felt like the story brushed past her accountability too quickly.
That said, Shane was easily one of the highlights of the book. He consistently demonstrated strong moral character, patience and genuine care, making him easy to root for throughout the story.
P.S. Be prepared for a cliffhanger ending that leads directly into Brian’s story.
October 12, 2026
Woof. The only reason this is getting 2 stars from me is because the first half of the book was genuinely great. It was compelling, and I was invested. Then it fell apart SO fast. If you told me this book was actually written by AI, I would have absolutely no problem believing you.
Let’s start with the redundancies. And I mean that literally and figuratively. There were sentences repeated VERBATIM in paragraphs right next to each other. Once? Sure, an editing error or a typo. But 3-4 times? How does that even happen??
Then there was Maya’s repetitiveness, which was getting on my NERVES. The constant need to bring up what David had said to her got old really quickly. We get it. We heard him the first time. And the time after that. And the time after that.
I hate a third-act breakup, and this was one of the worst. It made absolutely no sense. It came out of nowhere, added nothing to the story, and felt completely unnecessary. And don’t even get me started on the fact that this man SAVED HER FROM A BURNING BUILDING, and she STILL didn’t want to see him?? Hello???? What more do you want from the man?
By that point, I was skimming through the rest of the book just to get it over with. Such a disappointing fall from what started as a genuinely compelling story. And that last part of the epilogue? Are you joking? What was the point of that? Not interesting. Not satisfying. Just… why?
What a waste of a good first half.
Let’s start with the redundancies. And I mean that literally and figuratively. There were sentences repeated VERBATIM in paragraphs right next to each other. Once? Sure, an editing error or a typo. But 3-4 times? How does that even happen??
Then there was Maya’s repetitiveness, which was getting on my NERVES. The constant need to bring up what David had said to her got old really quickly. We get it. We heard him the first time. And the time after that. And the time after that.
I hate a third-act breakup, and this was one of the worst. It made absolutely no sense. It came out of nowhere, added nothing to the story, and felt completely unnecessary. And don’t even get me started on the fact that this man SAVED HER FROM A BURNING BUILDING, and she STILL didn’t want to see him?? Hello???? What more do you want from the man?
By that point, I was skimming through the rest of the book just to get it over with. Such a disappointing fall from what started as a genuinely compelling story. And that last part of the epilogue? Are you joking? What was the point of that? Not interesting. Not satisfying. Just… why?
What a waste of a good first half.
September 17, 2026
I enjoyed the story for what it was…all the way until that bull**** epilogue. I absolutely hate cliffhangers like that. That made my rating drop even more.
Let me be clear, this book has a good premise and overall a decent plot. The lack of proofreading and editing is what bothered me. Several times, certain phrases were repeated, like the author had reworded a conversation or description, moved it, but forgot to delete it elsewhere. It made the book really repetitive at times.
Additionally, there were some plot holes that made me confused. At one point, Shane says he’s been trying to change for three months, but on the next page, it was “a couple of days” since he had his epiphany that he wanted something different. First he states that their blended family was looking for a two-bedroom apartment, but then later said “what do we do with this extra bedroom?” implying that it had at least three.
While it’s small things overall, I think the author would benefit from careful proofreading or feedback before publishing. And maybe avoid making me feel like I have to continue the series with that sudden cliffhanger that made no sense.
Let me be clear, this book has a good premise and overall a decent plot. The lack of proofreading and editing is what bothered me. Several times, certain phrases were repeated, like the author had reworded a conversation or description, moved it, but forgot to delete it elsewhere. It made the book really repetitive at times.
Additionally, there were some plot holes that made me confused. At one point, Shane says he’s been trying to change for three months, but on the next page, it was “a couple of days” since he had his epiphany that he wanted something different. First he states that their blended family was looking for a two-bedroom apartment, but then later said “what do we do with this extra bedroom?” implying that it had at least three.
While it’s small things overall, I think the author would benefit from careful proofreading or feedback before publishing. And maybe avoid making me feel like I have to continue the series with that sudden cliffhanger that made no sense.
April 19, 2026
This gave full-on Hallmark romance but make it deep vibes and I ate up every single moment 😩💞✨
The journey of learning to love again… to trust again… to truly live again after being buried under insecurities and pain — it hit hard. That kind of darkness? The kind that convinces you there’s no light left? Yeah… that was real. And then here comes Shane 🥹🔥 stepping in as her light, standing ten toes down no matter what.
Even while fighting his own battles, trying to prove himself, he never wavered. Never folded. Never gave up. He loved her through every crack, every doubt, every scar — unapologetically and without hesitation 💘👏🏽
And BABY… the way he showed it?! I was SWOONING 😮💨💓 like sir… who told you to be this consistent, this patient, this all in?! Because whew — we all out here needing a Shane to come rescue us just a little bit 😩✨
I’m definitely hooked now. I need more. I want more. This story pulled me in, wrapped me up, and left me sitting here like 🥹💭 “ohhh… so this is love.”
On to the next book because I’m READY 👏🏽📖💞
The journey of learning to love again… to trust again… to truly live again after being buried under insecurities and pain — it hit hard. That kind of darkness? The kind that convinces you there’s no light left? Yeah… that was real. And then here comes Shane 🥹🔥 stepping in as her light, standing ten toes down no matter what.
Even while fighting his own battles, trying to prove himself, he never wavered. Never folded. Never gave up. He loved her through every crack, every doubt, every scar — unapologetically and without hesitation 💘👏🏽
And BABY… the way he showed it?! I was SWOONING 😮💨💓 like sir… who told you to be this consistent, this patient, this all in?! Because whew — we all out here needing a Shane to come rescue us just a little bit 😩✨
I’m definitely hooked now. I need more. I want more. This story pulled me in, wrapped me up, and left me sitting here like 🥹💭 “ohhh… so this is love.”
On to the next book because I’m READY 👏🏽📖💞
May 10, 2026
Truly heartwarming read
An accidental hit with a cupboard door
Starts a friends first romance that could lead to more.
A firefighter, a teacher and many surprises, too,
Make this a brilliant read I highly recommend to you.
There are pupils in need and a caring teacher, too,
Whilst others may derogatorily comment on what she’s gone through.
A single Mum with a feisty team and tough role
For whom sleepless nights are taking a toll.
He’s a pin up hero, a calendar poser, too,
Who is fed up of pointless hook ups so wants to change what he’ll do.
Can they bridge the divide and build a way to be two
Or will fate tear them apart despite what they do?
A great sense of community is a thread all the way through
With great characters, a mystery and lots for them to do.
There’s also the impact of past history to discover
As these two endeavour to learn about each other.
There’s a dramatic ending that left me with a wow
So the next in the series is what I need now!!
An accidental hit with a cupboard door
Starts a friends first romance that could lead to more.
A firefighter, a teacher and many surprises, too,
Make this a brilliant read I highly recommend to you.
There are pupils in need and a caring teacher, too,
Whilst others may derogatorily comment on what she’s gone through.
A single Mum with a feisty team and tough role
For whom sleepless nights are taking a toll.
He’s a pin up hero, a calendar poser, too,
Who is fed up of pointless hook ups so wants to change what he’ll do.
Can they bridge the divide and build a way to be two
Or will fate tear them apart despite what they do?
A great sense of community is a thread all the way through
With great characters, a mystery and lots for them to do.
There’s also the impact of past history to discover
As these two endeavour to learn about each other.
There’s a dramatic ending that left me with a wow
So the next in the series is what I need now!!
July 13, 2026
4.5 ⭐️
Even with math not mathing, I loved it.
Plot holes:
Timelines and time frames didn’t match. It would say 2 weeks passed, but then pulled up a text thread that was from the day before that only happened 2 nights from the incident. And then the next page says a lady he met a week ago.
Definitely said her ex was 19 when she got pregnant at 17. Then later they were both 17.
She taught a kid 9 years ago, but she’s 30. That would’ve been at 21. She wouldn’t have been a teacher then if she had to also get her GED, then go to college. Even if she finished in 3 years she would’ve been a student teacher and wouldn’t have been the one responsible for reporting.
She bothered me a little at the end with the third act break up. But I will say it came together at the end.
Even with the plot holes it was a sweet, fun read. Closed door spice and a good story that makes you want to finish it in one sitting is a good one! I’m excited for the next one!
Even with math not mathing, I loved it.
Plot holes:
Timelines and time frames didn’t match. It would say 2 weeks passed, but then pulled up a text thread that was from the day before that only happened 2 nights from the incident. And then the next page says a lady he met a week ago.
Definitely said her ex was 19 when she got pregnant at 17. Then later they were both 17.
She taught a kid 9 years ago, but she’s 30. That would’ve been at 21. She wouldn’t have been a teacher then if she had to also get her GED, then go to college. Even if she finished in 3 years she would’ve been a student teacher and wouldn’t have been the one responsible for reporting.
She bothered me a little at the end with the third act break up. But I will say it came together at the end.
Even with the plot holes it was a sweet, fun read. Closed door spice and a good story that makes you want to finish it in one sitting is a good one! I’m excited for the next one!
October 18, 2026
I enjoyed this book very much, even though it’s really schmaltzy. Like, sometimes way over the top schmaltzy, but for some reason it works. And I don’t typically enjoy that.
We meet some good characters and while they’re not developed too much, we see just enough of them to guess that there’s going to be a book of theirs in our future.
The writing is good, and the pace is good. I liked the story. and I especially enjoyed that the male lead wasn’t over the top alpha, out to save the day, but instead had some of his own issues.
There were a few lines that were repeated in several places in the book. I don’t know if that was intentional or if the author just ran out of things to say.
The book ends in a cliffhanger, but I don’t think it relates to the two main characters in this book. Their HEA is clear. I think the ending is what’s going to bring us to the next story as it relates to one of the other firefighters.
We meet some good characters and while they’re not developed too much, we see just enough of them to guess that there’s going to be a book of theirs in our future.
The writing is good, and the pace is good. I liked the story. and I especially enjoyed that the male lead wasn’t over the top alpha, out to save the day, but instead had some of his own issues.
There were a few lines that were repeated in several places in the book. I don’t know if that was intentional or if the author just ran out of things to say.
The book ends in a cliffhanger, but I don’t think it relates to the two main characters in this book. Their HEA is clear. I think the ending is what’s going to bring us to the next story as it relates to one of the other firefighters.
June 2, 2026
He will run into fire for you
I saw one line advertising this book and had me wanting to read this book. It didnt disappoint, a great book with deep plot and characters.
Was some points thay really pull at your heart strings.
She is used to fighting the world alone and the world still throwing punches. She thinks shes too tired and brings too much to the table.
He is used to being seen a surface level but not really seen. He wants to stay around and have a real home, a real family and a real life. One chance encourter leaves more than just a bruise it leaves him wanting to step and lean in.
Really lovely book and a cliff hanger that means book 2 is now on my kindle.
Book quote
He looked down at me in his arms and growled loud enough for all of them to hear, "Are we still on for dinner tonight at seven, Ms. Cummins? I'd hate for a little bump to ruin our plans."
I saw one line advertising this book and had me wanting to read this book. It didnt disappoint, a great book with deep plot and characters.
Was some points thay really pull at your heart strings.
She is used to fighting the world alone and the world still throwing punches. She thinks shes too tired and brings too much to the table.
He is used to being seen a surface level but not really seen. He wants to stay around and have a real home, a real family and a real life. One chance encourter leaves more than just a bruise it leaves him wanting to step and lean in.
Really lovely book and a cliff hanger that means book 2 is now on my kindle.
Book quote
He looked down at me in his arms and growled loud enough for all of them to hear, "Are we still on for dinner tonight at seven, Ms. Cummins? I'd hate for a little bump to ruin our plans."
June 5, 2026
DNF @4%
We’re introduced to a 30-year-old divorced single mother whose internal voice is still shaped by a past emotionally/psychologically damaging relationship, with her ex’s criticism lingering as part of her self-perception. Along with an emotionally distant teenage daughter.
The male lead is then introduced in a highly trope-driven way, he’s a firefighter framed through exaggerated desirability, casual sexual access, and the idea that women routinely throw themselves at him.
Even this early on, it already looks like it’s heading toward a “rescue” dynamic, with the female lead’s workplace migraine being positioned as the setup for him to step in and save her.
DNF because I’m not interested in this trope.
We’re introduced to a 30-year-old divorced single mother whose internal voice is still shaped by a past emotionally/psychologically damaging relationship, with her ex’s criticism lingering as part of her self-perception. Along with an emotionally distant teenage daughter.
The male lead is then introduced in a highly trope-driven way, he’s a firefighter framed through exaggerated desirability, casual sexual access, and the idea that women routinely throw themselves at him.
Even this early on, it already looks like it’s heading toward a “rescue” dynamic, with the female lead’s workplace migraine being positioned as the setup for him to step in and save her.
DNF because I’m not interested in this trope.
June 10, 2026
DNF @ 88% No chemistry
I just couldn't finish. There was no real chemistry. I didn't feel invested. No steamy scenes. Just lacking. The MFC, Maya, was the kind of female character I can't stand. She spends the entire book with a "poor me" attitude and just when you think she has gotten over it, she dumps the male character over a simple misunderstanding without letting him explain. If a male character had done this to the female, we would expect groveling from the male before the female would take him back. But here the male just takes her crap and takes the blame. So, by 88% I couldn't take Maya's crap. She did not deserve a happy ending and the male needed to grow some balls, so I stopped reading. My first book by this author and my last.
I just couldn't finish. There was no real chemistry. I didn't feel invested. No steamy scenes. Just lacking. The MFC, Maya, was the kind of female character I can't stand. She spends the entire book with a "poor me" attitude and just when you think she has gotten over it, she dumps the male character over a simple misunderstanding without letting him explain. If a male character had done this to the female, we would expect groveling from the male before the female would take him back. But here the male just takes her crap and takes the blame. So, by 88% I couldn't take Maya's crap. She did not deserve a happy ending and the male needed to grow some balls, so I stopped reading. My first book by this author and my last.
September 6, 2026
Mixed feelings
On one hand, I really liked the story and the characters. My issue comes from the fact that this book had a lot of repeating the same things over and over. The repetitiveness made me frustrated but I had to keep reading cause I wanted to know what happened. I found myself skimming over a lot of the book because I felt like I had read it already. I am torn because the book ends on kind of a cliffhanger but I don’t know if I wanna read the next book because I am afraid it will have the same repeating quality and I just can’t do it. Now, if you don’t mind that kind of thing, I bet you would really enjoy this book. It has a good storyline and characters you can relate to and get attached to.
On one hand, I really liked the story and the characters. My issue comes from the fact that this book had a lot of repeating the same things over and over. The repetitiveness made me frustrated but I had to keep reading cause I wanted to know what happened. I found myself skimming over a lot of the book because I felt like I had read it already. I am torn because the book ends on kind of a cliffhanger but I don’t know if I wanna read the next book because I am afraid it will have the same repeating quality and I just can’t do it. Now, if you don’t mind that kind of thing, I bet you would really enjoy this book. It has a good storyline and characters you can relate to and get attached to.
March 31, 2026
I really don't fully know how to rate this book. It was a very sweet, simple story, with some very deep subject matter regarding the children that the FMC teaches or has taught. It seemed like it could be a really good plot. Sadly the editing was atrocious. So many mistakes, repeated lines, inconsistent timelines. It became so grating to read. I persisted with it, as I did want to know what happened at the end, only to be met with a cliffhanger 🤦🏻♀️. I honestly don't see myself reading the second book, which is a shame, as it was a very sweet story, but unfortunately I just couldn't deal with another book if it was written and edited like this one was.
April 22, 2026
4.5/5 stars
This book was so cute! I really liked it and honestly couldn’t put it down. I absolutely love the single mom/dad trope, and this one was great! The storyline had me hooked and all of the sweet moments pulled me in. The only thing is that sometimes the descriptions would be written and in the book twice, either in a row, or the same description was used throughout the book, and it just messed with the sort of flow going on. I was also surprised about the ending and the cliffhanger before I realized that the next book is from Brian’s POV!
This book was so cute! I really liked it and honestly couldn’t put it down. I absolutely love the single mom/dad trope, and this one was great! The storyline had me hooked and all of the sweet moments pulled me in. The only thing is that sometimes the descriptions would be written and in the book twice, either in a row, or the same description was used throughout the book, and it just messed with the sort of flow going on. I was also surprised about the ending and the cliffhanger before I realized that the next book is from Brian’s POV!
April 29, 2026
storia carina anche se un pò lenta
a parte la cover inguardabile, che però ci sta perchè il protagonista ha fatto il mitico calendario, diventando il classico playboy vuoto, la storia è carina leggibile sopratutto maya la protagonista donna coraggiosissima e forte
peccato che la trama sia lentissima per metà libro per poi prendere il giusto ritmo
diversi errori grammaticali, frasi ripetute (ma li rileggono prima di caricarli???) che penalizzano il tutto
è il primo di una serie di tre
preso in unlimited
tre stelle e mezzo
a parte la cover inguardabile, che però ci sta perchè il protagonista ha fatto il mitico calendario, diventando il classico playboy vuoto, la storia è carina leggibile sopratutto maya la protagonista donna coraggiosissima e forte
peccato che la trama sia lentissima per metà libro per poi prendere il giusto ritmo
diversi errori grammaticali, frasi ripetute (ma li rileggono prima di caricarli???) che penalizzano il tutto
è il primo di una serie di tre
preso in unlimited
tre stelle e mezzo
May 17, 2026
This book had the perfect mix of emotion, chemistry, and drama. The connection between the characters felt natural, and I loved watching their relationship grow through all the tension and challenges they faced. The protective, caring moments made it easy to fall for the MMC, while the emotional depth kept the story from feeling shallow. It was well written, engaging from the start, and had enough heartfelt moments to keep me invested the entire time. A really enjoyable romance with great character dynamics and plenty of feels.
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