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She can fight all she wants. She knows she's mine.

When he rescued me from the icy waters of a flash flood, stripped off my drenched clothes, and got me into a warm bath, Axe Beckett wasn't merely doing his job as a wildland firefighter.

He was taking care of his best friend's little sister.

But when he carried me to his bed with my ass still sore from a stern reminder never to put myself at risk driving in a storm like that again, he didn't tuck me in for the night with a kiss.

He made me come so hard I screamed his name first.

Because off-limits or not, I've always been his.

Publisher's Note: Axe is the first book in the Missoula Hotshots series but can be read as a standalone. It includes spankings and rough, intense sexual scenes. If such material offends you, please don't buy this book.

475 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 8, 2026

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Piper Stone

225 books1,331 followers

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5 stars
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
751 reviews7 followers
May 20, 2026
Axe is the first book in the Missoula Hotshots series. It can be read as a standalone. Lots of action, suspense and of course, STEAM between the main characters. Another great story by this author. Hard to put down. Can't wait for the next book in the series.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
1,800 reviews12 followers
May 10, 2026
Fab

I loved this - Piper Stone at her best. Great characters, solid premise and well written - super steamy romance. A great read.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
1,064 reviews11 followers
May 21, 2026
This is a dark steamy and suspenseful romance that will keep you swooning non stop through all its pages. Be mindful of your triggers as the plot contains very detailed scenes that might not be enjoyable for you,

Where to start!! The book kicks off in high gear with action, pain, and loss for Stephen. He was a former bull rider who left the sport and became a hotshot/firefighter to be closer to his brothers. He is grieving when he rescues Kensie from drowning when she is almost swallowed by the growing stream. She is the his best friend's sister, off limits, and the girl who stole his heart years ago.

Kensie is the daughter of a landowner who is summoned back to the ranch to help her dad. She is a lawyer, sassy, independent and sure of herself. She has also been in love and lust with Stephen/Axe and sees her chance to finally get the man when he brings her to his cabin.

Be prepared for high intensity steamy encounters with bdsm and spanking (these are not for the faint of heart) that leaves them raw both physically and sentimentally. Giving them a chance to realize that they were meant to be.

But this book is filled with more than just their passion, there are twists, drama, suspense, action, and an incredible connection.

Truly a great read!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Arin.
627 reviews11 followers
May 26, 2026
Oh my gosh what a fantastic book I was invested into this very mysterious and full of secrets story right away! Part of it I believe cause of the little glue we get into the story behind. Another I really love firefighter stories/ smoke jumper books especially by the awesome Piper! The themes in this book are very up my alley enemies to lovers, best friends little sister, forbidden family issues what’s not to like with these surrounding an epic action packed adventure on going. I really enjoyed the characters they give off so much energy in many different aspects I felt like I could feel it seeping through the pages. I could definitely see this book as a movie playing in my head plenty of things going on to keep you wanting more and answers. I loved the headstrong personalities, strong bond between the smoke jumpers and their determination with whatever they put their mind to doing! The way the father was in book personal driven me crazy I’m very happy his daughter stands up to him . She in every way made me smile a lot while reading I loved getting to see her voice her opinions and learning new things about herself alongside her and Axe healing/ growing into their best versions of themselves with each other unwanted help:)
Reasons I enjoyed this book:
TwistedAction-packedWonderful charactersUnpredictable HauntingEntertainingTragicHappily Ever AfterSteamyPage-turnerFunny
Profile Image for Clara Atkinson.
1,222 reviews58 followers
May 20, 2026
Axe is the 1st book in the new series Missoula Hotshots and follows Stephen >Axe< Beckett ex-rodeo rider now smokejumper and Attorney McKenzie >Kenzie< Sterling.

Kenzie life was turned upside down within a twelve hour span when she lost her job and her boyfriend. Not sure what her next step would be she suddenly gets a call from her father who she hasn't spoken to in a while requesting her to come home. While she was less than thrilled to be heading back to Missoula it would give her time to figure out what to do next. When a severe storm nearly costs her her life she is rescued by none other than Stephen Beckett the guy she had a crush on as a teenager. While it's a well known fact that the Beckett's and Sterling's have had a long running hostility towards each other that didn't stop her brother Wade and Stephen from being friends unfortunately it prevented anything from happening between the two of them. Now 8 years later a storm a rescue and a washed out road changes everything when they give in to their desires.
Their story has plenty of action, suspense, danger, corruption, family drama and an arsonist that wrecking havoc but through it all there's healing and love.

I received a free copy through Booksprout an I'm voluntarily leaving my review.

5 ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
1,115 reviews5 followers
May 13, 2026
An ex rodeo star turned smokejumper, Axe is benched when his brother is killed in a fire. With guilt consuming him he finds himself rescuing Kenzie, his ex best friend's sister and the woman he has kept a distance from. Having lost her job and walked away from her cheating boyfriend, Kenzie is asked to come home to help her father, a man she has avoided for some time. When a violent storm puts her in harms way, it is the man she had a crush on who rescues her from a potentially fatal situation. With an attraction that is electric, they have to navigate their burgeoning relationship while dealing with a threat of possible corruption mixed in with arson, a situation that could have catastrophic consequences for Kenzie unless Axe can reach her on time. Hot, steamy, action-packed and fast-paced, this is definitely a story that will keep you hooked. Great characters and a fantastic start to this new series. I can't wait to read more about these smokejumpers and the women that they fall for.
Profile Image for Lori.
579 reviews5 followers
May 15, 2026
This book has it all. A personal grudge from another generation. Corruption. And an attraction never acted on. This is Kenzie and Axe's story. Their families have not tried to hide their intense dislike of each other from the community they share. Kenzie's father is a businessman with questionable ethics. Axe's friendship with Kenzie's brother ensured any attraction between Kenzie and Axe will never go anywhere. And an arsonist in the community.
This is a fast paced story that breaks everything wide open. The attraction that never went away rises to the forefront when Axe saves Kenzie. Suddenly, all bets are off. As the doubts rise as to what Kenzie's father has gotten himself into, the spat of fires that have started and are left to the Smoke Jumpers to attack and bring under control, the possible corruption under their noses is not enough to stop Kenzie and Axe being together. The question is whether they will get their happy ever after with so many things against them
I really enjoyed this book. It was well worth the read.

1,953 reviews9 followers
May 21, 2026
A fated romance that will leave you wanting!
I feel for Axe’s brother’s death before his eyes that he feels guilt and anger from it, so much so that he is told to take time off. Kenzie leaves behind her cheating boyfriend and job where she disregards the request to throw a trial to head home at her father’s command. Unfortunately for Kenzie, her truck gets caught in some high water and she is swept away in the river, where Axe comes upon her stranded car and discovers her hanging on to a tree branch. Thankfully, Axe’s rodeo days come in handy when he ropes her in just in the nick of time. Axe already knows that they are stranded on the mountain with no cell reception. As the two spend time together in his cabin, their short lived past of one kiss comes into play and then a whole lot more. Add in a bit of the Hatfield and the McCoy feud between their families for plot twists. You’ll be turning the pages wondering how Kenzie will save her father’s ranch and rodeo stadium and if the star-crossed lovers will have their happily ever after!
Profile Image for Kimberly.
552 reviews16 followers
May 18, 2026
Axe by Piper Stone was everything I want in a dark romance — intense chemistry, dangerous characters, emotional tension, and plenty of steamy moments. From the very first chapter, the story pulled me in and kept me hooked the entire time. Axe is possessive, protective, and ruthless, yet there were layers to his character that made him impossible not to love.
Piper Stone does an amazing job balancing suspense, passion, and emotional depth. The connection between the main characters felt raw and powerful, and the darker themes only added to the intensity of the story. I also loved the fast pacing and how every chapter left me wanting more.
If you enjoy dark romance with alpha male energy, danger, obsession, and sizzling chemistry, this book is definitely worth reading. Another addictive read from Piper Stone!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
5,348 reviews29 followers
May 25, 2026
This is the first in Missoula Hotshots, it centers around smoke jumper Stephen "Axe" Beckett and his former best friend's little sister, Kenzie. Kenzie is heading back to Missoula after losing her job and boyfriend, the second was not a hardship. Her father wants her home to help with something but does not tell her what. Axe has been put on leave as he is not handling something well and is filled with anger. He pulls unknown person out of the river, later finding out it is the one woman he has always wanted, Kenzie.

This is an intense story, there a lot moving parts and secrets that have not been divulged. There is plenty of action and Axe is not the only one in danger, Kenzie unravels a hornets nest. Will these two finally come together or are they just hit it once and that is it? This is an emotional story for both main characters and the tension between them in normal for the author's books.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for JP18267.
669 reviews9 followers
Review of advance copy
May 8, 2026
I can't even begin to explain how excited I am that Axe is a hotshot! I absolutely love getting a glimpse of the high stakes and what they go through fighting the fires. Experiencing him bravely save Kenzie had me on the edge of my seat. After eight years a Cowboy Oath and forbidden desire were still there—just as strong as ever.

Kenzie has a feisty, rebellious side that fits perfectly with Axe's reckless bad boy heart. The push-and-pull between them was addictive. The witty banter, high tension, extremely spicy moments made it nearly impossible to focus on anything else. I absolutely love everything I've read by Piper Stone but this is my new favorite series!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
3,339 reviews
May 8, 2026
Captivating read that I thoroughly enjoyed, Kenzie and Will wonderful characters

This was a simply wonderful read , the story runs the throws of this story that is to do with the loss of a brother and the factors that arise after this. Then there is the relationship that is between Kenzie and Will.
I am able to say that this second chance that they have been given is a very visual and interesting read that held me from the very onset of this book. I thoroughly enjoyed every single moment of this book and am sure other readers will be as captivated as I was.
I thoroughly enjoyed the book and look forward to reading any future publications; keep up all the wonderful writing.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
1,003 reviews3 followers
May 10, 2026
Sexy Hero!

I have always like Piper Stone Stories, and this onengot my heart right from the start,Axe lost someone dear to him,he almost lost the girl he care for from years before!Kenzi got called by her father and she didn't want to come but she lost her job and her boyfriend dump her so she comes home but on the way the the weather changes and she almost downs but someone was watching out for her and her old crush shows up to save her.This story had heart,tons of love when they realized what they almost lost but was able to have a second chance. But this story was filled with greed that cause the lost of lives.But this story also healed old flames and it stronger relationships. So here to second chances and lost lives!


174 reviews2 followers
May 8, 2026
Kenzie is returning home after being let go from her law firm for refusing to betray her oath. Her father who has always belittled her career choices needs help. She is swept away in a raging storm only to be rescued by Axe who was her brother's best friend. They have always had an antagonistic relationship, but she secretly longs for more.
This story had a complicated plot with plenty of intrigue, suspense mixed in with real heat and attraction between Kenzie and Axe.
There is a HEA ending, but it was touch and go from start to finish.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
2,024 reviews19 followers
Review of advance copy
May 8, 2026
This story runs the gamut of emotions, the low with the tragic loss of a brother to the very high romantic relationship between Kenzie and Axe. I also love the second chance they have been given. The writing is very descriptive and that allowed me to vision in my mind the events as they happened and that made for great reading. I loved everything about the story and the drama that happened throughout. It’s a great start to a new series and I can’t wait to see who gets their story told next.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and are voluntarily leaving a review.
2,029 reviews
May 8, 2026
Fire is so scary to me and anyone that runs into it to help instead of running away from it is a hero in my book. Axe lost his brother during a call but still fights fire and when Kenzie comes home another fire reignites. Kenzie has no grey zones, and she will fight for Justice and truth. While she doesn’t trust her father she starts working to solve the mystery of the fires in Missoula. As the mystery unfolds so too do family dynamics and the smoldering love affair. There is no real angst in this story and the ending is everything you would wish.
Profile Image for The Book Ssirren.
4,458 reviews125 followers
May 17, 2026
What the smokejumper hell did I just read!? This bad boy hit the ground running. Kenzie Anna Axe were hot. This was such an intense and spicy story. I loved that he was in the rodeo and turned to being a smokejumper. But being benched after his burger was lost was crappy. Pulling her from what could’ve been deadly, he most certainly made her pay for it in the nose delicious way.
But this story had a great plot. And I loved the storyline. The description was amazing. And these two were fire. I couldn’t get enough of this one. I was obsessed. Still am. I need more.
Profile Image for Johanna.
4,833 reviews80 followers
May 20, 2026
Book 1 of Missoula Hotshots. And a FANtastic start it is! Look forward to more from this world.

'It was because she ran off with something that belongs to me.
Her.'

This couple is h a w t!!!

The characters were very appealing and complex and compelling and dark and perfectly steamy together. Plot was intriguing and intense and well paced. World building was excellent and impressive. Thoroughly enjoyed and highly recommend!

Grab a copy, kick back and enjoy the read!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Rosemary.
1,660 reviews6 followers
May 20, 2026
What happens when "Axe" Stephen Beckettman, a who has had a crush on a woman for years reunites with that woman, McKenzie "Kenzie" Sterling. when she returns home after losing her job and boyfriend all in one day? Well, throw in danger, hot Missoula Smoke Jumpers and years long crushes for both that blazes into a romance and an HEA neither saw coming and you have the first in a great new series by Piper Stone.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Lisa A.
1,568 reviews13 followers
May 9, 2026
I loved Axe and Kenzie’s story…
The Missoula Hotshots series is off to a great start. Smokejumper Steven “Axe” Beckett and Attorney McKenzie Sterling's tumultuous relationship started when they were just kids. Kenzie was his best friend Wade’s little sister which made her off limits. But the heart wants what the heart wants and their mutual attraction can’t be denied, no matter what stands in their way… I received a free copy of this book. This review was posted voluntarily.
1,533 reviews11 followers
May 10, 2026
Second Chance Relationship

I thoroughly enjoyed every moment of this read! Full on action from page one that peaks and keeps your interest to the very last page.

Axe and Kenzie have a feisty relationship full of sizzle, steam and fierce emotions. The storyline is hot and addictive, full of tension, love and of course a wonderful HEA.

Another great read from this author!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Cathy Moir-Allen.
432 reviews2 followers
May 15, 2026
Book one of "Missoula Hotshots". Stephen "Axe" Beckett, has always been an adrenaline junkie from teenage rodeo champion to fighting fires as a "hotshot". The constant need to prove himself was a given in his life. Kenzie Sterling had followed her dreams and became a successful lawyer, but had always nursed feelings for her older brother's best friend. When her father demands that she come home to help handle a family business crisis, it sets up a whirlpool reconnection with Axe.
1,613 reviews
May 20, 2026
Kenzie is an attorney returning to her hometown after losing not only her job,but her fiance. Axe has loved Kenzie for years however, her father and Wade, his former best friend hates him.

Their attraction burns hot. Can they build a relationship or will family dynamics extinguish their love?

I loved it.and can't wait to read more of this series.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Ruth.
532 reviews10 followers
May 21, 2026
Kenzie is returning to her hometown at the request of her father. She is caught in a flash flood and is rescued by Axe who she had a crush on before leaving years ago. Axe and her brother are no longer talking. So much has changed, will the town and its residents ever be the same? The steamy story has secrets, feuds and danger.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
2,505 reviews23 followers
May 12, 2026
Smokejumpers, hot, right???!!! I can’t remember if I read a book before with smokejumpers, but sign me up now. I really liked reading about his work and what they do. Real heroes, just like Axe. This second chance romance is action-packed, sexy, badass and family oriented which is really a draw for me.
608 reviews5 followers
May 17, 2026
This is Kenzie and Axe's book. Kenzie is the sister to a friend of Axe. He was a bull rider turned hot shot. The story itself between the central characters was good. It had tension, mystery, issues, etc. The problem was in the details. This isn't the author's norm which increased the frustration. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Gladys.
14.4k reviews165 followers
May 19, 2026
Dark, intense, kinky and wickedly hot, Axe and Kenzie’s romance is a definitely make you sweat read. I like the history, attraction and chemistry between these characters. The story itself is quite engaging with a blend of suspense, danger, mystery, action, emotion, heartstring tugging and thrills.
Profile Image for Danee.
5,063 reviews
May 20, 2026
The story of Kenzie and Axe holds your attention from the first page and doesn't let go. There is drama, danger, action, sadness, suspense, and plenty of excitement. A beautiful second chance at love novel; will Kenzie and Axe seize this second chance and finally find happiness together?






I received an Advance Reader copy of this series and am voluntarily leaving a review.
2,851 reviews
May 21, 2026
An action packed and steamy dark romance read, in more ways than one, with plenty of drama helped along by Mother Nature. Stephen/Axe will stop at nothing to remind Kenzie who she belongs to in this first in series story with the Missoula Hotshots smokejumpers.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
1,017 reviews5 followers
May 17, 2026
Sizzling Hot Stuff
Hot sexy heat! What can be hotter than a forest fire jumping from tree to tree? How about the sexy smokejumper and the girl he never forgot! Bring lots of water because you’ll need it to cool down after reading Axe and Kenzie’s searing, scorching, flaming story!!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews