From Ashes: Unlikely Heroes

by J.E. Pace, Brion Kerry (Narrator), Cricket the Narrator (Narrator)

Can love grow…from ashes?

When volunteer firefighter Aiden Billings gets stuck with a flat tire in rural Kentucky, he’s not happy to have to drag his young daughter to a tire shop for the afternoon. But when the pretty receptionist glances his way, a sliver of his heart cracks open—something he hasn’t felt since his wife died five years earlier.

Nora Evans, however, has a past she’s not keen on sharing, and with good reason. She’s barely crested out of her life of drug use and abusive relationships, and is ready to heal. On her own.

Will the two of them be able to get past the grief that has crippled their hearts? Or will it all go up in flames?

Audible Audio

Published February 11, 2026

Reviews

[Tina Valley · Rating 5 out of 5]

From Ashes is a deeply emotional story about grief, healing, and unexpected second chances. Aiden, a firefighter still carrying the loss of his wife five years after her battle with cancer, has devoted his life to raising Gabby, the baby he and his wife adopted after she was surrendered at the firehouse. When a chance encounter with Nora, a kind but complicated receptionist at an auto repair shop, brings new feelings to the surface, Aiden finds himself torn between honoring his past and opening his heart again.

Nora’s honesty about her difficult history adds depth to their growing connection, and the surprising revelation that ties all three of their lives together creates a powerful emotional core. Despite the challenges they face, their determination to build something real makes this a heartfelt and compelling story about love rising from loss. A touching reminder that healing can lead to the most unexpected beginnings.

[Brittany · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was an Audible listen for me. I enjoyed this story, even though predictable, I found it super relatable. I didn’t mind the short chapters or the time hops… however I did feel the transitions between chapters were really fast, one right into the other and that was annoying. And I sometimes felt it was read at such a fast pace for what the subject was trying to convey or evoke.
Overall, it was a nice listen to and from work

[Charleigh H · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked the idea of the book and I was able to figure out the twist. I wish the ending wasn't as abrupt and gave us a little more insight. The Audiobook asset wasn't bad but I wish the male voice was more consistent in tone at times he was super soft and others was loud.