Not Actually Yours

by Sophie L. Henderson

Two weeks and two fake dates with Brock Holt—the infuriating firefighter with a savior complex, tough-guy attitude and a body as hot as his temper. And the last person single-by-choice schoolteacher Nix would ever fall for.

Nix's heart is on permanent lockdown after her mom walked out on her, but she needs a date to her cousin's engagement party. Anything to put an end to the relentless single-shaming. Can she find someone—preferably smokin'—willing to spend Thanksgiving weekend with her meddling family in a tiny seaside town in the middle of nowhere?

Brock got burned falling for the wrong girl. But his potential promotion to captain hinges on him having a date for the annual firefighters' gala. Can he convince the entire community that his short fuse is a thing of the past, that he's ready for a serious new role as a fire hall leader?

They've agreed: falling in love is not an option. And soon, they're fooling everyone. Even themselves. When Brock utterly charms Nix's hard-to-impress aunt over a cozy breakfast of pancakes and maple syrup, and sparks fly at the fire department dance, the alarm bells start to ring…

A swoony, sweet and steamy fake-dating romance that is the perfect comfort read. If you love Laurie Gilmore, Amy Daws and Stephanie Archer, you'll be charmed by Not Actually Yours.

Perfect for fans of 💋Fake dating💋🎇He falls first🎇☀️Grumpy-sunshine☀️💖Small-town romance💖🔥Spice🔥

Genres: Romance, Adult, Firefighters

316 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 7, 2026

About the author

Author Sophie L. Henderson writes heartfelt romance for readers who love slow-burn butterflies, blush-worthy heat, and characters you'll fall for just as hard as they fall for each other. PLAY WITH FIRE and NOT ACTUALLY YOURS are out now!

Originally from a tiny village in England, Sophie spent seventeen years wrangling jazz hands as a drama teacher before finally listening to the voice in her head (the one telling her to write, not the one asking for another snack). She now lives in Vancouver with her husband, where she’s embraced views of snowcapped mountains, has caught feelings for hockey, and talks to hummingbirds like they’re her best friends.

Reviews

["Avonna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Check out all my reviews at https://www.avonnalovesgenres.com

NOT ACTUALLY YOURS by Sophie L. Henderson is a contemporary romance with explosive sexual chemistry that returns the reader to Fire House 8 in Van City and this time it is elder Holt brother, Brock’s turn to fall, but it won’t be easy with the ever-evasive Nix. Each book in this connected series features one of three brothers and there is some overlapping of characters, but they are still easily read as standalone romances.

Elementary teacher Nix refuses to involve her heart in any relationship after being deserted by her mother as a small child. When her aunt, who helped raise her, tells her she needs to attend her cousin’s weekend long engagement party, she tells her she has a boyfriend to bring otherwise her aunt threatens to set her up. Now she must ask a favor of the man she is trying to be friends with since he is the brother of her best friend’s boyfriend. But after having had a hot sexual encounter with him three months ago and then ghosting him, she knows it is a big ask.

Firefighter Brock has had terrible luck in the romance department. He would like more than friendship with the hot Nix who he cannot seem to forget, even though she ghosted him. When she needs a date for an engagement party it coincides with his need for a date for an annual firefighters’ gala. They can fake this without involving their hearts, can’t they?

I enjoyed the first Van City book, Play with Fire, but I enjoyed this romance even more. Both Nix and Brock have emotional difficulties from their childhoods to deal with as they are trying to form a healthy relationship between them. Usually, I dislike romances with plots based on non-communication, but Ms. Henderson does a wonderful job of portraying both Nix and Brock as they get things wrong from fear or misunderstanding, have short intervals of running, but also how they decide it is better to talk and they have friends and family who also help. They both delve into their emotions honestly and have character growth throughout the story. This is a contemporary romance with several steamy and explicit sex scenes that I feel fit well with the characters’ personalities.

I highly recommend this steamy contemporary romance that pulled me right in and left me with a smile on my face and a satisfied romantic heart.

[Rupali · Rating 5 out of 5]

Some books entertain you and some books quietly settle into your heart. This one did exactly that for me and without a doubt, it is one of my favourite reads of 2026.

Also, New book boyfriend unlocked!!!!! 🥵

📖Plot: Set in a beautifully written small town backdrop, the story follows Phoenix 'Nix' Hughes, a teacher who has mastered the art of emotional distance and Brock Holt....'Springer' a firefighter (he's so hootttt, still swooning over him) who feels everything deeply and unapologetically. One unforgettable summer brought them together but unresolved fears & Nix’s tendency to run from attachment tore them apart just as quickly.

When fate unexpectedly pushes them back into each other’s lives, the two begin fake dating (for reasons best discovered while reading). What starts as forced proximity slowly unfolds into something raw, vulnerable & deeply healing. Beneath the romance lies a story about emotional baggage, fear of commitment, family wounds & learning that love does not always demand perfection...sometimes it simply asks you to stay.

💌 What I loved:
This book had everything I look for in romance.The chemistry between Nix and Brock was magnetic but what truly stood out for me was the emotional depth behind it. Brock’s emotional openness contrasted so beautifully with Nix’s fear of attachment, making their dynamic feel painfully real, relatable & incredibly compelling.

The sibling relationships, friendships, family dynamics & small town atmosphere added so much warmth to the story. Every interaction felt intentional and lived in.

Sophie writes romance with sincerity & you can genuinely feel how much care she puts into portraying love as something meaningful rather than superficial. She rightly have said it in her acknowledgement section, she really doesn't take writing romance for granted. So kudos to you @sophenwrites💗

Most importantly, I adored how this story wasn’t about one person 'saving' the other. It was about two flawed people choosing to face their fears together & finding comfort, safety & home within each other.

🚫What I didn’t like:
Absolutely nothing. Just pick it up.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Thank you Sophie for trusting me with your work and NetGalley for the ARC!!!

[Deni Fox · Rating 3 out of 5]

3,5/5 ⭐ Not Actually Yours by Sophie L. Henderson is a small-town romance that introduces us to Nix, a devoted teacher who, because of childhood trauma, has lost faith in love and long-term relationships. But after a candle-related accident brings her face-to-face once again with the sexy firefighter Brock, her beliefs slowly begin to unravel.

This is the second book in the Vanity Fire series.
Brock and Nix are truly a fiery couple - the chemistry between them is undeniable, and I especially loved the humor and banter they shared throughout the story. This book delivers a cozy and comforting atmosphere while also touching on deeper topics, such as the influence parents have on our lives and the lasting effects of childhood trauma that can often prevent us from fully moving forward.

Although the story was well written, there were a few things that felt lacking for me. The fake dating trope, which I expected to play a bigger role, was resolved too quickly and felt somewhat underdeveloped. Additionally, parts of the story felt somewhat familiar to me, as I had recently read another book with a similar writing style and progression.

Even so, Not Actually Yours is a sweet, cozy, and romantic read that’s perfect for anyone who enjoys small-town romances with great chemistry and emotional depth.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review❤

[Tessa K · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book so much! I finished it in one day because I just couldn’t stop reading. It had everything I look for in a story, and it completely lived up to my expectations. I honestly can’t think of a single thing I didn’t enjoy. Definitely a five-star read, and I would highly recommend it.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Rachel Tipul · Rating 4 out of 5]

Netgalley arc review

I enjoyed this romance! Who doesn’t love a hot strong firefighter. Lots of tension. I enjoyed the humor but even more so the growth of the main characters. I usually don’t like a miscommunication trope but this was written well. Characters issues were real life and relatable. Very enjoyable romance read that I recommend!

[Bookish_Aly_Cat · Rating 4 out of 5]

I adored this quick, small town romance between a firefighter and a schoolteacher. I loved Brock and Nix together so much. They had such a realistic dynamic and their chemistry was sizzling. If you are looking for a story with relatable characters and an engaging plot you should check this one out.

Read this if you like:
🔥 Fake dating
🍎 He falls first
🔥 Grumpy/sunshine
🍎 Small town romance
🔥 Spice

Thank you @bookouture for the gifted copy of the book.

[Jess Hilbert · Rating 4 out of 5]

I absolutely tore through this book. Brock and Nix had sharp tension from the start, but what made them so fun to read was how much heart sat underneath all that friction. They were both guarded and carrying their own baggage, but the story never lost its warmth, humor, or sweetness. 🔥

What I loved most was the balance. It touches on heavier themes like abandonment, self-worth, and vulnerability, but it never feels weighed down by them. There were so many tender, funny, and genuinely hopeful moments, and the car accident scene especially got me because it showed so clearly how well these two fit together. 🚒 Firefighter and elementary school teacher helping their communities while healing themselves, come on!

I was completely invested in them and really wanted them to find their way to each other. I did not love the grand gesture quite as much as the rest, but overall this was fun, emotional, and incredibly easy to devour. A very strong four stars from me. 📚✨

Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the ARC in exchange for an honest review. 💛

[Lisa Penninga · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book Two caught my attention for so many things. I love a series where character growth happens for former minor characters, and this one delivered! I love the concept of being honest and communication being key to any successful relationship, and how both protagonists rely on that to overcome their tendency to avoid real feelings. I also appreciated that as a teacher, we actually see students and the firehouse interactions instead of just giving Nix a job. Both jobs are heavily referenced as plot and growth. I loved the accident scene and the growth that comes from that for both of them in different ways and the end was so cute! This would make a great movie! Definitely a must read for fans of Emily Henry, Courtney Walsh, & Abby Jimenez!

[Magically Miranda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to Bookouture and author Sophie L. Henderson, for providing me with the eARC of “Not Actually Yours”.

This is book 2 in an interconnected series, I have not read book 1 but plan too! I ate this up like it was a special type of drug. Add to your TBR, it really is that good.

Nix is so relatable, she is superhero teacher, does a lot for her kids and by night can barely take care of herself. And the post work can't do anything is so me. I did want to shake her a bit when we learn about the ghosting and how she handles her feelings. But she gets there eventually and the moment where she tries !!! Loved it.

Brock... can I get one of him too?! But really he is just a big old grumpy teddy bear. He falls hard and fast but he does ask for help and tries so truly a good man. The banter he has with his brothers and his work brothers is elite and so well put throughout the book.

No other notes, go read this!

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Spice Level: 🌶️
Dual 1st POV
Length: 326 pages

Firefighter x Teacher
Grumpy x Sunshine
Fake Dating
Second Chance-Ish
He Fell Hard
Found Family
She Has Relationship Trauma

[tallie (◕‿◕✿) · Rating 3 out of 5]

Its more like a 3.5. But i honestly couldnt bring myself to star up


First thank You Netgalley for giving me the chance to read it.

•••


I have some mixed feelings.

I did enjoy it very much so! But they used my biggest pet peeve (public confessions ICK) and i just didn’t like the way nix over and over again did struggle in the same ways?

Like i get brook but THRICE?! No thank you he may been forgiving but me? Not so much.

It was still an enjoyable read, but im happy i didnt need more than a day for it.. cause i think once i stopped i wouldve stopped forever.
Still the writing was smooth and the setting great


•••

[Pauline Cassie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've got to say, I really wondered if my second visit to Vancity was going to live up to my first for Fuel to the Fire. I needn't have worried as Not Actually Yours more than lived up to Sophie L Henderson's debut.

I absolutely adored Nix and Brock and their story.

I loved that grumpy Brock had a different, immensely attractive side that a woman with even the hardest heart would succumb to.

I loved Nix's relationship with her students and her commitment to seeing a community project to its completion despite a personnel change.

Most especially though, I loved how they discovered their feelings for each other.

I'm not going to lie though...I shed more than one tear. Some from laughter others from sadness but, every tear and paper hanky was worth the range of emotions I experienced when reading Not Actually Yours.

I cant wait to see what Sophie L Henderson comes up with next.

[Beyond the Pages with Eva K · Rating 5 out of 5]

Quick Summary: A small town, fake-it-til-you-make-it-showmance romance

My Review: Not Actually Yours by Sophie L. Henderson is book #2 in the Vancity Fire series. It was released on 5/7/26.

About the Book: "The best way to avoid single-shaming and a broken heart? Fake date Brock Holt—the infuriating yet smokin’ hot firefighter with a saviour complex and tough guy attitude. And the last person I’d ever fall for."

In My Own Words: An emotionally guarded teacher has a hot & fiery encounter with a firefighter who has an emotionally stunted history himself.

About the Characters/Conflict: The characters in this novel were realistic and had believable background stories. Some of the conflicts highlighted in the book addressed the complex nature of family dynamics, the dysfunctional behavioral patterns adopted when in survival mode, the impact of abandonment or overreaching on emotional development, the pressure of external influences, the value of self-worth, and finding, claiming, and holding on to what is of true value. Additionally, I have to say that trust and forgiveness are weaved into the characters' healing journeys.

My Final Say: There is a lot more going on in this story than it may seem at first. While it is a fake dating romance, underneath, it is a story of survival, surrender, healing, and acceptance. Of course, there is also the aspect of love and being worthy enough to be loved. That includes loving self enough to feel worthy of the more that comes with love, and it involves giving self permission to be loved.

Both leads in this story are trapped, in a sense. They are victims of their families' narratives. As such, they are affected enough to seek out control, but it is at a cost, influencing their relationships with significant others. That externally-created narrative aspect influenced a false sense of self.

But you know what? I think that Brock and Nix's chosen careers are telling. It shows that they, in their own way, needed a connection to the things they themselves were perhaps denied, if that makes sense. It allows them to show a depth of hidden emotion, so to speak. It shows a care and concern that speaks even as they are silent in their own ways.

Now, in terms of their chemistry and their special brand of spice... Uh, yea; it was all the things. Even with that aspect, I think there is more to things.

In the end, this is the type of story that sneaks up on you and puts a chokehold on your heart. It has a depth, with layers you cannot see until it's right in your face. It is certainly my kind of story. I hope potential readers look beyond the fluff and stuff. This one is layered enough to take a closer look. Emo-strong for the win!

Other: Readers who enjoy the following tropes will like this novel:

💖Fake dating💖
☀️Grumpy-sunshine☀️
🎇Forced proximity🎇
🧨Tortured heroes 🧨
🧯No feelings hookup🧯


Rating: 4.75/5
Recommend: Yes
Audience: A
Re-read: Yes
Status: ⭐⭐⭐⭐3/4
Level: 🌶️🌶️
Format: 📱
Series: Yes
Cover: +

Sincere appreciation is extended to the author, to the publisher (Bookouture), and to NetGalley. Thank you for granting access to a digital ARC of this title. It has been a pleasure to become acquainted with this series. I am grateful for the opportunity.

[Michele with Book Nook Buzz · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not Actually Yours is the second book in Sophie L. Henderson’s Vancity Fire series, and for me, it was a step up from the first. This fake-dating romance delivers exactly what you’d expect from the trope: chemistry, tension, and just enough emotional vulnerability to keep things interesting.

The story follows Nix, a guarded schoolteacher who’s sworn off love, and Brock, a hot-headed firefighter trying to prove he’s ready for a leadership role. Their agreement to fake-date for mutual benefit quickly spirals into something more complicated...because of course it does—and that’s where the book shines. The setup is classic, but the cozy seaside setting, meddling family dynamics, and community-centered moments (like the fire department dance and Nix's class outings) give it a comforting, small-town charm.

This is definitely a cute and spicy read, with a solid mix of drama and romance. The chemistry between Nix and Brock is believable, and the emotional beats land well enough to keep you invested in their journey from reluctant partners to something more.

That said, I did have a few hang-ups. Although the characters seem to be in their mid-twenties, their behavior often felt younger, which pulled me out of the story at times. On top of that, some of the added family drama didn’t fully work for me—it occasionally felt like more than the story needed. Similarly, a “tender” moment between Brock and his brothers and dad didn’t quite land as intended and came across as a bit unconvincing.

I also think my reading experience may have been slightly skewed since I picked this up right after a five-star read, so my expectations were probably higher going in.

Even with those critiques, I still found this to be an enjoyable 3.5-star read. I’m also starting to realize I might be a fan of firefighter romances. They bring a certain intensity and charm that’s hard to resist. Henderson shows promise as a writer, and I think her books will only get stronger with time.

If you’re a fan of fake dating, small-town settings, and a blend of sweet and steamy romance, Not Actually Yours is definitely worth checking out.

Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the eARC.

Posted on Book Nook Buzz

[Library of J · Rating 5 out of 5]

Not Actually Yours — But Completely Mine to Devour ⭐⭐⭐⭐,75

I absolutely tore through this one. 📚🔥

"Not Actually Yours" is the second book in Sophie L. Henderson's Vancity Fire series, and honestly? It might be my new favourite fake-dating romance. A guarded schoolteacher and a hot-headed firefighter strike a deal to fake-date for mutual benefit and yes, you already know where this is going, but that's exactly the point. The setup is classic, the execution is warm and fun, and I was completely invested from start to finish. 😍🙃

What makes Nix and Brock so enjoyable is the balance. There's sharp tension and friction between them, but underneath all of that sits a lot of heart. 💛❤️‍🔥 They're both carrying baggage, abandonment, self-worth, vulnerability, but the story never feels weighed down by any of it. There's humour, there's sweetness, and there are genuinely tender moments scattered throughout. The car accident scene in particular got me. 🚒 🚗 It showed so clearly how well these two fit together, and I loved that both their jobs, the firehouse and the classroom, 🏫 are actually woven into the plot rather than just used as background detail. AND I LOVE IT!!

A firefighter and an elementary school teacher, both healing themselves while showing up for their communities. Come on. That's just lovely. 🍂✨🤎

The cozy seaside setting and small-town charm add a lot too, and I appreciated that communication and honesty are central to how these two finally find their way to each other. 🌊 The grand gesture at the end didn't fully land for me personally, and some of the family drama felt like a little more than the story needed but neither of those things took away from how much fun this was to read overall.

Henderson shows real promise, and I have a feeling her books are only going to get stronger. 📖 Also, I think I might officially be a sucker for firefighter romances now. They bring an intensity that's just hard to resist. 🔥😅

ARC kindly provided by NetGalley and Bookouture in exchange for an honest review. 🤍💫🙂

#FueltotheFire #Notactuallyyours #NetGalley

[Heidi Lengenfelder · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not Actually Yours by Sophie Henderson is the kind of romance that starts with sparks and quickly turns into a full-on five-alarm emotional fire. The fake dating setup is deliciously messy from the start, but what really makes this story work is the way the tension between Brock and the heroine simmers underneath every sarcastic exchange, every lingering touch, and every moment they try to convince themselves this arrangement is “just temporary.”

Brock is the definition of grumpy firefighter perfection—rough around the edges, emotionally guarded, and carrying enough heartbreak to make every vulnerable moment hit harder. Underneath the tough exterior, though, he’s fiercely protective and unexpectedly thoughtful, especially when it comes to the heroine’s fears about relationships and abandonment. Their chemistry is instant, but it’s the emotional push-and-pull that keeps the pages flying.

The heroine’s determination to stay unattached felt believable instead of frustrating. Her fear of being left behind shapes so much of how she approaches love, and watching Brock slowly break through those walls made the romance feel earned. The fake dating may have brought them together, but the emotional intimacy is what made this story addictive.

And the spice? Absolutely scorching. The fire hall scenes alone deserve their own warning label. But even with all the heat, the story never loses sight of the emotional stakes underneath it all. There’s humor, vulnerability, jealousy, tenderness, and enough tension to keep you hooked until the very last page.

If you love grumpy-sunshine romances with fake dating chaos, emotionally unavailable men who secretly worship the heroine, and chemistry hot enough to melt the pages, this one absolutely delivers.

I had the opportunity to read this book ahead of publication, and these are my honest thoughts.

[Jen Lindsey · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you like enemies to lovers filled with tension, hot longing, and witty banter this is a great read!

I knew of these characters from Book 1 in the series, but they delivered a very deep and emotional story I was not expecting out of them. Brock and Nix have demons from their past that they need to come to terms with before becoming fully invested in each other. As soon as one of them broke through the barriers the other set, a side character would come in and blow it all up!

Nix, an elementary school teacher, only has situation-ships. No love and no marriage as she saw that go up in flames when her mom left her over and over as a child. Brock is tender hearted underneath his broody hard exterior that was learned at a young age, so he doesn't know how to communicate his feelings. Nix's class has a series of field trips at the firehouse, and Brock gets assigned as the lead firefighter. They had an amazing 11 days together months ago, but when the connection felt too real, Nix fled and ghosted Brock. Then Brock gets called to Nix's apartment building when she lights a few too many candles triggering the alarm. What develops is a fake boyfriend/girlfriend situation that has all the real feelings.

Nix has the most growth throughout their story. Although I wanted to reach through the pages and corner her mom, she has an amazing support system who really helps her see what she is missing and not to be scared of her love for Brock. Brock's Dad really turns into the superhero in his story. As his Dad is addressing his own feelings in therapy, it allows him to make peace with Brock and help him work through years of misguidance.

Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and publisher for this advanced copy for an honest review!

[BaddyBooks · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you to the author & NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!

Okay listen… this book said fake dating a grumpy firefighter and I said “absolutely, ruin my life a little.” And it DELIVERED.

Fuel to the Fire is one of those romances that sneaks up on you. You come for the banter, the tension, and the man in uniform, and suddenly you’re sitting there like… wait, why do I care about these people this much?

The dynamic? Elite.
Black cat FMC who is holding it together with sheer willpower and sarcasm.
Grumpy firefighter MMC with emotional damage and a soft center he is pretending doesnt exist.
Together? A disaster. A beautiful, yearning-filled disaster.

The fake dating quickly turns into oh no, we’re catching feelings and also unpacking trauma, and I actually loved how the story handled that. The trauma representation felt grounded and real without losing the warmth of the romance. It never got too heavy, but it still had emotional weight.

And the found family?? Inject it directly into my veins. The side characters added so much life and humor to the story. It felt cozy, chaotic, and supportive in the best way.

Spice-wise, this sits at about 🌶️🌶️
It’s there, it’s fun, it fits the story, but the emotional tension and yearning are really doing the heavy lifting here.

Overall, this is a super cute, slightly angsty, small-town romance with great banter, emotional depth, and a firefighter MMC who absolutely does not stand a chance against his feelings.

If you like:

-fake dating
-grumpy x black cat twist energy
-trauma with healing
-found family chaos
-and men who fall first but pretend they didn’t

…you’re going to have a very good time.

[Tanisha · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reading has always been a constant in my life, and romance is the genre that feels most like home. Over time, I have found certain types of stories that always pull me in, and romances featuring firefighters have definitely become one of them. There is just something about the mix of bravery, vulnerability, and high-stakes emotion that works for me every time. After loving “Play With Fire,” the first book in this series, I was really excited to continue on with this story.

I already liked Nix and Brock from book one, but getting to know them on a deeper level here made me appreciate them even more. There was so much more depth to both of them than I initially expected. Nix’s past, especially her experiences with feeling abandoned, clearly shaped how she approached relationships, and that added an emotional layer that made her journey feel very real. Brock also stood out to me, especially as he allowed himself to be more open and emotionally honest. Seeing that side of him made his character even more compelling.

Watching their relationship evolve was one of my favorite parts of the book. It was not always easy, but it felt authentic. I especially appreciated seeing Nix work through her fears and start to trust her own feelings. Those moments made the emotional payoff feel even more satisfying.

All in all, I really enjoyed this book. It had heart, depth, and a romance that felt earned. I am definitely looking forward to continuing this series and seeing what comes next.

**I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.**

[Sarah · Rating 1 out of 5]

Nix and Brock—a teacher and a firefighter. Will their flame continue to burn, or will it turn to ash?

This isn’t typically the kind of book I would pick up, but that won’t stop me from recommending it to readers who enjoy this genre.

We’re introduced to Nix and Brock in a very cliché, fire-romance way: he’s called to her apartment building for a fire alarm that turns out to be false. After checking the building, he realizes everyone has evacuated all except her. Of course, she’s still inside… taking a bath.

This book delivers banter, along with second-chance and fake-dating tropes, which many readers will enjoy.

I’m all for female positivity, but in my opinion, Nix comes across as an unreliable character. In the first chapter, she’s portrayed as a party girl who loves having a good time, yet she’s spending her Friday night alone doing “self-care.” When the fire alarm goes off, she chooses to stay in the bath instead of evacuating, which made her decisions hard for me to understand.

As for Brock, he’s clearly still hung up on their past and wants another chance, while Nix resists because she doesn’t see herself as someone who can settle down. Both characters come across as having strong alpha-type personalities and, at times, feel a bit self-centered that’s how I perceived them.

Overall, I found it difficult to fully enjoy the story due to what felt like a mix of toxic masculinity and toxic femininity. However, I did sympathize with Nix’s fear of becoming like her mother, which added some emotional depth to her character.

On that note it was all thanks to NetGalley for making this review possible!

[M · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is Book 2 in the Vancity Fire series. I loved Book 1 & I loved Book 2 - maybe even more? At least equally. Love this series & can't wait to read more!!

The characters are amazing - Brock is 100% swoonworthy & all you would dream of in a firefighter boyfriend. I love that he has loved her for a while. This is one of those books that will keep a smile on your face because it makes you feel all the feels. ❤️💗

Nix has some issues she has to work through since her Mom left when she was 5 & she's never allowed herself to commit, so she ghosted Brock even though (or probably because) she was starting to have feelings for him & he was the best she's ever had... Love Brock's family (Book 1 was about one of his brothers). HIs Mom - "I always know what goes on in my house, son!" (when he found out that she knew they slept together there a few months prior...this scene wasn't in the book, just mentioned.)

Love the book so much. It was fast pace & gripping with a bit of spice mixed in, but definitely all the feels.

Love the Uber driver & his interaction with them (he's been married 40 years & encouraged them in their fake/maybe not fake dating). Love all the nicknames the firefighters have... although, a serious opportunity was missed with Springer (Brock)'s nickname explanation - his buddy Irish tells Nix that it was something about a spring door besting him in training.... there's an epic opportunity here for something spicy!! LOL 💗🤣 😉

Thanks to the author (Sophie L. Henderson), publisher (Bookouture) & Netgalley for the ARC read. All opinions are my own.

[Patty · Rating 4 out of 5]

So this is my 2nd book w/ the author and in the same series. The last one with Brodie & Sav I was meh about. I really liked that plot but the way to get there was trying and almost DNF that one. So, I was curious how this one would pan out. And to my surprise, this is 1000% better.

Brock, Sav's coworker at the Station, also Brodie's bro, had a thing with Nix, which we saw in the last book when Brook & Nix staged an intervention for Sav & Brodie. Since then they have spent some time together and Nix ghosted him. But who knew that Brock is a bigger romantic and a sap here.

The story is definitely a Grumpy X Sunshine trope, and the lovely part is that Brock is a big o softie on the inside. Not only that, he's the romantic and he wants to take care of her like no man has for Nix before, besides her dad. Nix's insecurities stem from her messed up mom, and also messed up aunt with the pressure to find a man. Someone just need to shut her up and tell her marriage is not the be all end all of happiness. Being ok with yourself and finding someone to travel that journey with is better. What I'm most impressed is Brodie/Brad/Brock's dad. Last book he was the a-hole that basically said you're a sissy if you're not a fireman. But walls were definitely broken down from last book, because this one he's willing to see the err of his ways and find help. He really helped his sons here. This is a great book and really enjoyed it.

Thanks NetGalley & Bookouture for the ARC

[Seershhhhh · Rating 3 out of 5]

Really thought this would be a good read but the fmc Phoenix is just insufferable. She’s a whole ass adult and any inconvenience or something doesn’t go her way she disappears. It’s so immature. Grow up. She’s awful to Brock. Only time she isn’t being a b*tch is during sex. If a man ghosted a girl like that and that many times we’d all be saying take out the trash. Brock deserved someone better and someone who doesn’t run away every five minutes. She’s incredibly selfish. All she does is give excuses and go on about her trauma and it is absolutely valid, but she lacks any accountability or awareness whatsoever. How does she think she’s any better constantly dipping in and out of Brock’s life.. she’s behaving as if she’s her mom. She has awareness of being traumatised but she’s literally done nothing about it. No therapy or opening up to people about it. It made me lose sympathy for her as the book went on because her and behaviour treatment towards Brock is just so horrible and hurtful. She’s nowhere near ready for a relationship and Brock’s putting up with a lot of sh*tty behaviour to get this girl. Phoenix feels like she’s a 16 year old kid and not a 26 year old woman.
Brock is a really great guy, he falls hard and fast. He’s a romantic at heart. I was so angry with Phoenix. Ghosting him and leaving him stranded at a family event he went on as a favour to her as well. How immature. I would never speak to the person again if that was me.

[Angela · Rating 4 out of 5]

Many thanks for NetGalley and Bookouture for the ARC of Fuel to the Fire!

A heartfelt, steamy, and surprisingly thoughtful read that rises above the usual fluff. Perfect for anyone who loves their romance with both heat and heart!

Fuel to the Fire is one of those romances that sneaks up on you in the best way! On the surface, it’s cute, fun, and delightfully spicy, but what really makes it stand out is the emotional work simmering underneath all that heat.

Nix and Brock are instantly engaging, but what I loved most is how the story digs into *why* they struggle to be vulnerable with each other. Henderson doesn’t just sprinkle in backstory; she lets both characters (and even their parents!) confront how childhood experiences shaped their ability to trust, open up, and love fully. It gives the romance real weight and makes their connection feel earned rather than convenient.

Watching them recognize their patterns, take accountability, and actually put in the work to grow—individually and together—was incredibly satisfying. It’s refreshing to see a romance where emotional maturity is part of the journey, not an afterthought. Still, none of that depth takes away from the fun. The chemistry is electric, the banter is adorable, and the spicy moments are exactly what you want them to be. Great news readers; there's although Brodie (VanCity #1) and Brock are taken there is still one brother available!

[WeReadLikeLadies · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book! I haven't read anything from this author before so I wasn't sure how it would go, but I'm really glad that I was able to read this one! It was so cute! This was the second book in a series and if I had been able to read the first book before this one, I think that would have been better for me. There were just comments made that I'm sure tie into the first book and it would have made more sense had I read it, but I didn't NEED to read the first one to enjoy this book. I love Nix and Brock! Their characters were working through a lot and I loved to see their growth and allowing themselves to find love. I was between 75-80% when I was questioning when the fall out was going to happen and wondering HOW it was going to happen. It actually ended up being exactly how I thought it would happen and I loved that I was right, haha. The ending to reconcile was a bit over the top, but what's not to love about that? It was a typical over the top apology that you'd see in a movie and I was here for it. The side characters were fun and I love that Brock's brothers worked on their relationships and helped each other out. Even if, for them, it was hard to talk about their feelings with each other. Sav, Nix's best friend, was awesome and I loved her part in the book as well.

Overall, I loved this book. It was a bit spicy so I would recommend to most people who love rom-coms, but that don't mind a bit of spice!

[reading.raelyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Glad to be back with Hall 8 and Van City Fire. This book hit just as good as book 1 for me. I love a good interconnected romance series where each book focuses on a new couple.

The tension between our two MCs was strong through this book. I found myself laughing and having a real good time. I liked how Brock, the MMC, was grumpy with everyone when Nix, the FMC, was around. That made for hilarious scenes and fun interactions with side characters.

Both MCs had pasts that have caused them to put up walls and avoid expressing their feelings, which led to a bit of a ghosting situation after they first meet. Months later, with very real feelings existing for them both, they find themselves in need of dates. Neither wanting to face being single, they agree to a fake-dating situation. Who doesn’t love this when you know they already like each other so much??!!

I loved that they both were willing to try and be honest and have good communication, and it was clear with the accident they encountered that they not only work well together but they’re a good fit and balance too. Although there continued to be some non-communication and stuff from the past played a part, there’s nothing I love to see more than a character grow and own up to their mistakes, which happened spectacularly.

All in all, a fun read and I will definitely be continuing this series.

Thank you to NetGalley for this advance copy. I appreciated the opportunity to read and review.

[Tanya · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fuel to the Fire was such an easy, addictive read—I flew through this one 🔥📚
Brock and Nix have that instant tension you can feel right away, but what really made them work for me was the heart underneath it all. They’re both guarded and carrying their own emotional baggage, but the story still manages to stay warm, funny, and really sweet.
I loved the balance here. It touches on heavier themes like abandonment, self-worth, and vulnerability, but it never feels heavy or overwhelming. Instead, it leans into tender, hopeful moments that make you root for them even more.
That car accident scene?? 🚒
That moment really showed how well they fit together—especially with Brock being a firefighter and Nix working as an elementary school teacher. Both of them showing up for others while quietly learning how to heal themselves was such a strong dynamic.
Brock is very much a swoon-worthy MMC—especially knowing he’s been in love with her for a while 😮‍💨 and I really enjoyed the found-family energy with his family too (and the returning characters from book 1!).
✨ what I loved:
• firefighter x teacher
• slow emotional build with tension
• he’s loved her for a long time
• found family + series continuity
• heartfelt + easy to devour
✨ what didn’t fully land for me:
• the grand gesture at the end didn’t hit as strongly as the rest of the book
overall: fast-paced, emotional, fun, and full of heart—this one left me smiling and completely invested in them 🤍

[rosesreadsromance · Rating 4 out of 5]

❤️ I wasn’t expecting the woman of my dreams to declare her love for me in front of thousands of people ❤️

“Love must be as much a light as it is a flame.” — Henry David Thoreau

🚒🔥 Firefighter romance + grumpy x sunshine + fake dating? Yes, please! 🔥🚒

I love firefighter romances, and Brock is exactly the kind of MMC I adore 😍 handsome, sexy, a little grumpy, confident, serious, and completely devoted to his job. But what truly made me fall for him ? His personality. He’s supportive, caring, patient, and not afraid to admit his feelings 🥰 And his relationship with his brothers? Pure chaos and love at the same time 😂 All the bickering, all the meddling, but also so much support 🫶🏻

Nix, is his total opposite 🫦❤️ Beautiful, confident, and an third-grade teacher with clear goals and ambition. She’s more of a free spirit, living for fun and pleasure without strings attached, while Brock is all about deep, lasting commitment. Opposites attract at its finest 😏

I really appreciated how driven and family oriented Nix is 💕 but I have to admit... sometimes her behavior toward Brock felt a bit childish and unfair 😕 He deserved better in those moments.

As for Brock... my only issue is that he forgave a little too easily. Even when he was hurt, he kept giving chances..…and while that shows how big his heart is 🥺❤️ I wish he had made others work a bit more for that forgiveness.

💖 Tropes you’ll find:
✨ Firefighter romance
✨ Fake dating
✨ Grumpy x sunshine
✨ He falls first (and harder 😭)
✨ Small town


📖 Not Actually Yours by Sophie L. Henderson (ARC) 🩷💜

[Sue Plant · Rating 5 out of 5]

would like to thank netgalley and the publisher for letting me read this very addictive book

my second book by this author and i have to say i really enjoyed reading this book..... she has a way of writing that draws you in to her characters and you stay because you want to see how everything works out...

nix aka phoenix is a teacher and room buddy to sav.... at the moment she is taking her classroom of children to the fire station for a series of visits and the end results will be done in front of their parents highlighting all they learn

for nix this is bittersweet as she has been avoiding a certain firefighter.... aka brock, they had a series of hook ups but nix being nix decided for them both that she wasnt enough for him......

brock was mystified over it all ... he thought they had had a good time together and couldnt understand the gas lighting and now with the imminent arrival of the school group and nix he was hoping to not be around...yeah right fate would have it that he had to be the one take took this class and showed them around....

ohhh man this book had it all the funniest moments aka that bathroom scene ..... the one liners and enough intrigue to keep you reading to find out what was going to happen to brock and nix.... and man its a ride of experience reading about these two....

i cant wait to read about the other brother now and see how that pans out... what a family and what a ride this book is

[Grace Power · Rating 4 out of 5]

REVIEW 📖 thank you for the arc @sophenwrites & @netgalley & @bookouture 🤍

Even without reading book one, Not Actually Yours completely pulled me in. I was worried I’d feel lost jumping straight into this story, but the emotional connections and character dynamics were written so well that it honestly didn’t matter.

And the teacher/firefighter dynamic?? 🔥 Absolutely obsessed. The protective firefighter energy mixed with the calmer, more grounded teacher vibe created so much tension and chemistry from the start. This book is sexy without relying only on spice. It has a combination of longing, teasing, emotional intimacy, and a constant push & pull that makes it hit even harder.

What surprised me most was how layered the story felt underneath all the chemistry. Beneath the romance is a story about identity, belonging, grief, and the complicated ways people hold onto each other even when they probably shouldn’t. The characters felt messy and human, which made everything feel even more emotional and real.

It’s not grief in the sense of a death focused story, but more abandonment grief, heartbreak, family wounds, and the fear of repeating generational patterns. Nix especially carries a lot of pain from her mother leaving, and that affects how she approaches love and relationships throughout the book.

Heartbreaking, addictive, emotional, and seriously hot. This book definitely left a mark on me, even as someone who skipped book one.

4 ⭐️

[Lynn Meeuwissen · Rating 5 out of 5]

🧯Dual POV
🧯Fake dating
🧯Grumpy-sunshine
🧯Forced proximity
🧯Tortured heroes

Thank you Bookouture for providing this ebook for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

After Nix and Brock hooked up, she ghosted him. Now they are forced to work together when her community project as a teacher takes place in his fire hall. When they both are in need of a fake date to an event, they decide to help eachother out but will they be able to resist the real feelings and hurt that is there?

I love the dynamic between Nix and Brock: the banter, the tension and the chaos. He’s grumpy, she’s guarded yet sharp and you feel how they challenge each other in the best way.

I love how Nix is trying to protect her peace and independence, even when it means keeping people at a distance.

I love that this story goes beyond the romance. It dives into past trauma, family patterns and the impact of what we grow up with. The conversations felt raw and real: about fear, about mistakes, about things left unsaid for too long.

I love how both Nix and Brock, and even their parents, are forced to confront their past and take responsibility. That emotional growth hit just as hard as the romance.

I laughed. I cried. And I genuinely felt inspired by how openly and vulnerably they communicate, even when it’s messy and uncomfortable.

I love a fake dating story that actually makes you believe in what’s building underneath… and this one absolutely delivers.

I’m already so excited to read the next book in this series: Brad & Seren’s story is gonna be fire too, I just know it ❤️‍🔥

#bookstagram #bookreview #NotActuallyYours #NetGalley