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Hothead #1
Hothead
Would you walk through fire to save the one you love?
Tristan Cavanagh is looking for a fresh start. A novice firefighter paramedic, he's reeling from the loss of his fiancé and from his father's recent diagnosis with a neurodegenerative disease. He's putting out fires everywhere in his personal life, and has no time--or desire--for a relationship.
Single father, firefighter lieutenant, and star of the SFFD, Nick Gutierrez does it all. When he's not busy saving lives, he's doing his best to give his young daughter the world. His heart belongs to his family, and there's no room in it for romance.
Sparks fly when Tristan and Nick meet during a chance encounter at a discreet club, only for the fuel to be stolen from the fire when they realize they work together. But from the embers of their attraction, they coax an a secret, carefully-negotiated, mutually-satisfying fling. They have a careful everything is on the table--except for love.
But flames have a way of spreading, and when an unspeakable tragedy strikes, but Tristan and Nick must confront their hidden feelings and decide just how far they'll go for love.
Tristan Cavanagh is looking for a fresh start. A novice firefighter paramedic, he's reeling from the loss of his fiancé and from his father's recent diagnosis with a neurodegenerative disease. He's putting out fires everywhere in his personal life, and has no time--or desire--for a relationship.
Single father, firefighter lieutenant, and star of the SFFD, Nick Gutierrez does it all. When he's not busy saving lives, he's doing his best to give his young daughter the world. His heart belongs to his family, and there's no room in it for romance.
Sparks fly when Tristan and Nick meet during a chance encounter at a discreet club, only for the fuel to be stolen from the fire when they realize they work together. But from the embers of their attraction, they coax an a secret, carefully-negotiated, mutually-satisfying fling. They have a careful everything is on the table--except for love.
But flames have a way of spreading, and when an unspeakable tragedy strikes, but Tristan and Nick must confront their hidden feelings and decide just how far they'll go for love.
431 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 30, 2026
About the author
Kent Holland
15 books54 followersKent Holland is an openly Queer writer of gay and queer romance novels that have a lot of heart and a healthy amount of spice. He is based in Tennessee. When he is not writing, he enjoys listening to music, running marathons, spending time with his friends, and reading books in any number of genres. A percentage of the profits of all of his book sales goes to support various LGBTQ+ charities, and you can explore various resources to support the LGBTQ+ community on his website, or through the QR code linked in each book. You can connect with him on Instagram at kenthollandwrites.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
Did Not Finish
July 6, 2026DNF @ 50%
I am going to start this review with the things I think have been done well and I was impressed with.
This story heavily features a BDSM dynamic between the MCs (they meet in a kink club after all) and I think that this element has been incorporated in a responsible way I haven’t often seen executed so naturally including clear communication around desires and kinks, the use of protection (or lack thereof) and safe words.
Reading that you might be surprised that I found myself DNFing, and look a while ago I might have pushed through, but I am on an ever evolving journey to get better at putting down books that don’t work for me, and the things that didn’t work for me here really are just a personal preference thing that outweighed how impressed I was with good and responsible BDSM rep.
To start off with, one of our MCs Tristan, is carrying the grief and loss of his fiancé as a heavy burden. Which I wouldn’t normally mind too much but the dead fiancé was a regular and constant feature and I just wasn’t feeling it. Also, in addition to that Tristan was also having to assist with the care of his father who has been diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer’s, which is just such a HEAVY thing to deal with at the best of times, and not what I was feeling when I picked up a smutty firefighter romance.
Our other MC Nick, is a single father, and while I don’t love stories that feature kids I can normally ignore it if they’re written well and it would have been fine here if not for the drama with the mother of his daughter returning to the scene. If theres one thing I enjoy less than children in story’s is custody plot lines.
Honestly though, I could have ignore all of the above, but the final thing that caused me to throw in the towel was the choice of explicit scenes on page. After scenes where the characters discussed things like breeding kinks, sex without protection, toy use and setting out a scene, it then kind of ‘fade to black’ jumped over the first scene of the MCs being intimate together? Which I am just so perplexed by as a choice, like a book discussing very explicit sexual content and then getting oddly bashful over the actual sex? Felt very incongruous to the vibe that had been set up.
Anyway, aside from a bit too much telling and not enough showing, this was fine and someone with different pretences to me would probably really enjoy this one. Alas my quest for my perfect firefighter romance continues….
Consider following my instagram
I am going to start this review with the things I think have been done well and I was impressed with.
This story heavily features a BDSM dynamic between the MCs (they meet in a kink club after all) and I think that this element has been incorporated in a responsible way I haven’t often seen executed so naturally including clear communication around desires and kinks, the use of protection (or lack thereof) and safe words.
Reading that you might be surprised that I found myself DNFing, and look a while ago I might have pushed through, but I am on an ever evolving journey to get better at putting down books that don’t work for me, and the things that didn’t work for me here really are just a personal preference thing that outweighed how impressed I was with good and responsible BDSM rep.
To start off with, one of our MCs Tristan, is carrying the grief and loss of his fiancé as a heavy burden. Which I wouldn’t normally mind too much but the dead fiancé was a regular and constant feature and I just wasn’t feeling it. Also, in addition to that Tristan was also having to assist with the care of his father who has been diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer’s, which is just such a HEAVY thing to deal with at the best of times, and not what I was feeling when I picked up a smutty firefighter romance.
Our other MC Nick, is a single father, and while I don’t love stories that feature kids I can normally ignore it if they’re written well and it would have been fine here if not for the drama with the mother of his daughter returning to the scene. If theres one thing I enjoy less than children in story’s is custody plot lines.
Honestly though, I could have ignore all of the above, but the final thing that caused me to throw in the towel was the choice of explicit scenes on page. After scenes where the characters discussed things like breeding kinks, sex without protection, toy use and setting out a scene, it then kind of ‘fade to black’ jumped over the first scene of the MCs being intimate together? Which I am just so perplexed by as a choice, like a book discussing very explicit sexual content and then getting oddly bashful over the actual sex? Felt very incongruous to the vibe that had been set up.
Anyway, aside from a bit too much telling and not enough showing, this was fine and someone with different pretences to me would probably really enjoy this one. Alas my quest for my perfect firefighter romance continues….
Consider following my instagram
June 30, 2026
Once I saw the description for Hothead I knew I needed to read it immediately! This was my first time reading anything by Kent Holland, and it’s safe to say I thoroughly enjoyed his writing.
What really hooked me was how he handled character dynamics. I loved their initial meeting and then all the tension that followed when they found out they were coworkers. The chemistry between the leads is intense. I could feel is through the pages and I loved it.
I really enjoyed reading a firefighter romance! I have only read a couple butI especially loved this one. I’m already looking forward to digging into the rest of his work. If you’re a fan of MM romance that packs a punch both emotionally and in the heat department, definitely read this one! I def recommend it.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
What really hooked me was how he handled character dynamics. I loved their initial meeting and then all the tension that followed when they found out they were coworkers. The chemistry between the leads is intense. I could feel is through the pages and I loved it.
I really enjoyed reading a firefighter romance! I have only read a couple butI especially loved this one. I’m already looking forward to digging into the rest of his work. If you’re a fan of MM romance that packs a punch both emotionally and in the heat department, definitely read this one! I def recommend it.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
Did Not Finish
July 1, 2026DNF @ 22% - The instalove was unnecessary and the medical procedures didn’t feel right - very distracting. But I stopped reading at “My heart already belongs to my daughter. Can I give it away to someone else?” No, Nick, obviously it is not possible to love more than one person. How could you even consider that?!
July 9, 2026
I loved absolutely everything about this damn book. I want Tristan to get all the nice things in life...and in his next life too, because he deserves every single one of them. I just wanted to hug him through the whole book. When he cried, so did I.
Y'all already know I'm a sucker for a single dad romance, and this one checked every box for me. We get strangers-to-friends-to-lovers, plenty of hurt/comfort, found family, and enough heartbreak and chaos to keep turning the pages for more.
The spice was perfect. It was there, it fit the story, and it never overshadowed the emotional relationship building between our MC's. There's also a touch of BDSM with a Dom/sub dynamic that felt added another layer to their relationship. It also added a little to the plot so that was a nice addition.
Nick was everything Tristan needed, even if Tristan didn't realize it at first. Watching Tristan slowly heal from his grief and come to understand that Nick was his person was such a beautiful journey. Nick's patience, kindness, and emotional intelligence balanced Tristan so well, and I adored every moment of their relationship growing stronger.
One of my favorite things was that there was no third-act breakup. Instead, just when you think these characters have been through enough...the story somehow gets even more intense. It was like watching a primetime TV show. My bestie(who also recommended me to read it) compared it to the 9-1-1 show; I would have to agree. I was sitting on the edge of my seat thinking, Please don't let this become GOT(IYKYK). Thankfully, we got the happy ending these characters deserved. It wasn't the ending I expected, but it was incredibly satisfying and worth every emotional punch along the way.
The relationships in this book were everything. Nick and Tristan, Nick's daughter, Nick's family, Tristan's family....ah it all came together so beautifully. I will not mention someone who shall remain nameless that I didn't want in the story lol.
I genuinely have nothing negative to say about this book. It's an easy ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ and it definitely going on the shelf.
Y'all already know I'm a sucker for a single dad romance, and this one checked every box for me. We get strangers-to-friends-to-lovers, plenty of hurt/comfort, found family, and enough heartbreak and chaos to keep turning the pages for more.
The spice was perfect. It was there, it fit the story, and it never overshadowed the emotional relationship building between our MC's. There's also a touch of BDSM with a Dom/sub dynamic that felt added another layer to their relationship. It also added a little to the plot so that was a nice addition.
Nick was everything Tristan needed, even if Tristan didn't realize it at first. Watching Tristan slowly heal from his grief and come to understand that Nick was his person was such a beautiful journey. Nick's patience, kindness, and emotional intelligence balanced Tristan so well, and I adored every moment of their relationship growing stronger.
One of my favorite things was that there was no third-act breakup. Instead, just when you think these characters have been through enough...the story somehow gets even more intense. It was like watching a primetime TV show. My bestie(who also recommended me to read it) compared it to the 9-1-1 show; I would have to agree. I was sitting on the edge of my seat thinking, Please don't let this become GOT(IYKYK). Thankfully, we got the happy ending these characters deserved. It wasn't the ending I expected, but it was incredibly satisfying and worth every emotional punch along the way.
The relationships in this book were everything. Nick and Tristan, Nick's daughter, Nick's family, Tristan's family....ah it all came together so beautifully. I will not mention someone who shall remain nameless that I didn't want in the story lol.
I genuinely have nothing negative to say about this book. It's an easy ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ and it definitely going on the shelf.
Read
May 23, 2026“You’re perfect to me, and perfect for me, and that’s enough.”
Tristan moved back home to help take care of his dad and when he met Nick at a discreet club, sparks fly. What they didn't expect was they are coworkers in the firehouse but their chemistry is undeniable. As they embarked on a secret relationship that turned out to be more, can their relationship handle what life throws their way?
I just saw queer firefighter romance and instantly said 'I'm in.". No regrets.
This was a lengthy book but well deserved. Our characters are both juggling their own battles, with Nick as a single parent and Tristan who's caring for his dad and grieving his ex-fiance. This is a pretty steamy book wrapped in a lot of emotional depth which I appreciate.
The book was a bit heavy that tackled a lot of emotions with grief, with being a caretaker, being a single parent and more. The author did a good job in balancing the romance with the heavy themes. I did love the thought and care put here with their whole relationship that centered around consent and care.
I love the found family, the friendship and the relationship between the main characters with their own parents. It was so refreshing and adorable to read.
This is me:
I see that this might be a series, and best believe I will read book 2.
Tristan moved back home to help take care of his dad and when he met Nick at a discreet club, sparks fly. What they didn't expect was they are coworkers in the firehouse but their chemistry is undeniable. As they embarked on a secret relationship that turned out to be more, can their relationship handle what life throws their way?
I just saw queer firefighter romance and instantly said 'I'm in.". No regrets.
This was a lengthy book but well deserved. Our characters are both juggling their own battles, with Nick as a single parent and Tristan who's caring for his dad and grieving his ex-fiance. This is a pretty steamy book wrapped in a lot of emotional depth which I appreciate.
The book was a bit heavy that tackled a lot of emotions with grief, with being a caretaker, being a single parent and more. The author did a good job in balancing the romance with the heavy themes. I did love the thought and care put here with their whole relationship that centered around consent and care.
I love the found family, the friendship and the relationship between the main characters with their own parents. It was so refreshing and adorable to read.
This is me:
“You got someone? Partner, kids?” “Oh, god no. I’m only twenty-eight. I’d be a goddamn child bride.”
I see that this might be a series, and best believe I will read book 2.
August 1, 2026
Hothead was more than a romance, it was a heartfelt story about grief, healing, family and finding the courage to love again.
After a near-death experience and the devastating loss of his fiancé, Tristan returns to his hometown to rebuild his life. Alongside his own grief, he's now helping care for his father, who has Alzheimer's, making his fresh start anything but easy.
Watching Tristan explore a new side of himself through BDSM was thrilling it was an unfamiliar territory and understandably, he's hesitant after everything he's been through.
That's where Nick comes in, he is confident, patient, and never pushes Tristan beyond what he's ready for. Instead, he gives Tristan the space to explore at his own pace, making their relationship feel safe, respectful, and genuine.
One of my favourite aspects of the novel was the emphasis on consent, communication, and boundaries. Kent Holland handles these themes with care, showing that trust is built through understanding and mutual respect.
The friendships Tristan forms after returning home are equally heartwarming. He's surrounded by people who genuinely care about him, support his healing and encourage him to embrace this new chapter of his life without judgment.
Nick has his own battles to fight. As a single father, he's doing everything he can to protect his daughter, and when his former partner suddenly returns to fight for custody after abandoning her, the emotional stakes become even higher.
Both men are coping with grief in different ways. Tristan returns home after losing his fiancé, while Nick changes careers after losing a colleague in the line of duty. Watching them slowly help each other heal was one of the most rewarding parts of the story.
The character development is outstanding. Tristan gradually steps out of his shell, becomes more confident in who he is, embraces his sexuality without shame and eventually allows himself to fall in love again.
Kent Holland also does an incredible job portraying the realities of firefighters and paramedics. The emergency calls, disasters, risks, and even the discrimination some first responders experience because of their sexuality all added authenticity to the story.
Every rescue scene felt vivid and realistic.
By the end, Tristan and Nick had truly earned their happy ending.
This is a beautiful second-chance romance filled with hope, healing, emotional growth and characters you'll genuinely root for.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
After a near-death experience and the devastating loss of his fiancé, Tristan returns to his hometown to rebuild his life. Alongside his own grief, he's now helping care for his father, who has Alzheimer's, making his fresh start anything but easy.
Watching Tristan explore a new side of himself through BDSM was thrilling it was an unfamiliar territory and understandably, he's hesitant after everything he's been through.
That's where Nick comes in, he is confident, patient, and never pushes Tristan beyond what he's ready for. Instead, he gives Tristan the space to explore at his own pace, making their relationship feel safe, respectful, and genuine.
One of my favourite aspects of the novel was the emphasis on consent, communication, and boundaries. Kent Holland handles these themes with care, showing that trust is built through understanding and mutual respect.
The friendships Tristan forms after returning home are equally heartwarming. He's surrounded by people who genuinely care about him, support his healing and encourage him to embrace this new chapter of his life without judgment.
Nick has his own battles to fight. As a single father, he's doing everything he can to protect his daughter, and when his former partner suddenly returns to fight for custody after abandoning her, the emotional stakes become even higher.
Both men are coping with grief in different ways. Tristan returns home after losing his fiancé, while Nick changes careers after losing a colleague in the line of duty. Watching them slowly help each other heal was one of the most rewarding parts of the story.
The character development is outstanding. Tristan gradually steps out of his shell, becomes more confident in who he is, embraces his sexuality without shame and eventually allows himself to fall in love again.
Kent Holland also does an incredible job portraying the realities of firefighters and paramedics. The emergency calls, disasters, risks, and even the discrimination some first responders experience because of their sexuality all added authenticity to the story.
Every rescue scene felt vivid and realistic.
By the end, Tristan and Nick had truly earned their happy ending.
This is a beautiful second-chance romance filled with hope, healing, emotional growth and characters you'll genuinely root for.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
June 30, 2026
This was my first Kent book, but it absolutely will not be my last.
Nick and Tristan completely stole my heart. Both of them are carrying so much pain, but in such different ways. Tristan is doing everything he can to give his daughter a life filled with love, stability, and safety, all while carrying the weight of being a single father. Nick returns home after experiencing unimaginable loss, navigating grief while helping care for his sick dad. Their individual journeys felt so authentic, and neither man's healing was rushed or magically fixed.
What I loved most was that they became a safe place for one another. They didn't rescue each other. They simply showed up. They listened. They gave each other room to grieve, to heal, to stumble, and to grow.
Watching their relationship unfold felt so natural and incredibly beautiful. Their chemistry was undeniable but it was the emotional intimacy that completely won me over.
This story balances passion, heartbreak, healing, and hope so effortlessly that I found myself smiling one chapter and wiping away tears the next.
Kent has such a gift for writing characters who feel real.
Needless to say, I've already warned Kent that he's stuck with me now because I fully intend to read everything he writes.
| laughed. I cried. Then I cried some more.
If you're looking for a romance that is equal parts emotional, healing, hot and incredibly swoony, Hothead deserves a spot on your TBR.
Nick and Tristan completely stole my heart. Both of them are carrying so much pain, but in such different ways. Tristan is doing everything he can to give his daughter a life filled with love, stability, and safety, all while carrying the weight of being a single father. Nick returns home after experiencing unimaginable loss, navigating grief while helping care for his sick dad. Their individual journeys felt so authentic, and neither man's healing was rushed or magically fixed.
What I loved most was that they became a safe place for one another. They didn't rescue each other. They simply showed up. They listened. They gave each other room to grieve, to heal, to stumble, and to grow.
Watching their relationship unfold felt so natural and incredibly beautiful. Their chemistry was undeniable but it was the emotional intimacy that completely won me over.
This story balances passion, heartbreak, healing, and hope so effortlessly that I found myself smiling one chapter and wiping away tears the next.
Kent has such a gift for writing characters who feel real.
Needless to say, I've already warned Kent that he's stuck with me now because I fully intend to read everything he writes.
| laughed. I cried. Then I cried some more.
If you're looking for a romance that is equal parts emotional, healing, hot and incredibly swoony, Hothead deserves a spot on your TBR.
May 17, 2026
review of advanced copy
•This was such a beautiful story!
• The writing was great—very descriptive and atmospheric when necessary, but also snippy in a way that moved the story along at a good pace
• The plot itself was very action packed and tense at times, which made for a really enjoyable reading experience
• There were a lot of storylines and arcs that I felt the author did a good job of both weaving together and fully fleshing out so that it felt completed by the end of the book
• Many important themes such as queer relationships, representation, family dynamics and relationship dynamics were explored in a way that felt natural and meaningful which I enjoyed
• I really liked both main characters, and how their personalities mirrored the roles they preferred in their relationship, and I appreciated the many explanations of safety and consent while undertaking such an arrangement
• At times I felt certain parts, like how Tristan’s previous relationship changed his personality were overly explained when it could’ve been shown, but that’s just my personal preference
• Overall, I’d definitely recommend this book, especially if you’re a fan of found family and shows like 9-1-1!
•This was such a beautiful story!
• The writing was great—very descriptive and atmospheric when necessary, but also snippy in a way that moved the story along at a good pace
• The plot itself was very action packed and tense at times, which made for a really enjoyable reading experience
• There were a lot of storylines and arcs that I felt the author did a good job of both weaving together and fully fleshing out so that it felt completed by the end of the book
• Many important themes such as queer relationships, representation, family dynamics and relationship dynamics were explored in a way that felt natural and meaningful which I enjoyed
• I really liked both main characters, and how their personalities mirrored the roles they preferred in their relationship, and I appreciated the many explanations of safety and consent while undertaking such an arrangement
• At times I felt certain parts, like how Tristan’s previous relationship changed his personality were overly explained when it could’ve been shown, but that’s just my personal preference
• Overall, I’d definitely recommend this book, especially if you’re a fan of found family and shows like 9-1-1!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 7, 2026
Amazing! Absolutely amazing! This MM romance was sweet, but oh so hot! Tristan and Nick were a fantastic couple. Their communication was top notch, the love they had for each other and those around them was so special, and the exploration of kinks was very spicy. I particularly liked the dom/sub dynamic.
Hothead was a lot more stressful than most of Kent Holland’s other books. But that did allow for some more serious topics to be explored as well, which was nice. It made the story much more meaningful and engaging.
Hothead was a lot more stressful than most of Kent Holland’s other books. But that did allow for some more serious topics to be explored as well, which was nice. It made the story much more meaningful and engaging.
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.5/5⭐
A book, on the longer end of the number of pages – 420 more or less. It didn’t feel too long or too short. The story itself, Tristan and Nick. Two different people, both with some sort of baggage gathered during their lives. They meet each other in a pretty unconventional way, in a kink club. They don’t end up spending much time together during their time there. But the universe had different plans and later on they happen to cross paths at their work – Station 27.
I like that kind of surprises because they can go in many directions. Both characters had a great and clear feel of their own personalities. I liked them very much. Tristan with his journey after what had happened to him not so long ago. And Nick with his own story but also strong and beautiful feelings that you could feel through the pages.
They got to know each other more and more and you could see how it truly was something special from the very beginning. I appreciate the gentle mentions of the cosmic and the universe itself. It wasn’t anything weird or too much but rather a way of looking at things similarly to the way I look at them. I think even if you have different beliefs, you can feel something different when it happens. That happened to Nick and Tristan.
Their romance felt natural and truly attractive. I could clearly see how they both looked at each other and the magnetism they felt toward each other. Immediately you know who had stronger feelings sooner and who had to work through them. It didn’t feel fake or instant in an unbelievable sense but rather a steady rise. Closer and closer towards each other, like two stars that were a unique match.
Furthermore, I must be one of the few readers who doesn’t mind the miscommunication element in romance but I also like the opposite. Here, I LOVED how they communicated with each other! Accomplished perfectly. And I’m not saying they didn’t have their bumps on the road because they did; which made it even better.
Side characters. Chasten and Yale – great friends, many look for that kind of kinship. Vinnie, I’m looking at you Vinnie, what’s up with you and… Charlie, maybe??? Mathilde, you’re amazing, forever. The rest was also good but not enough of interactions for me to actually make up my mind about them.
Every few pages I laughed at something one or the other said/thought and that’s impressive because most of the books I read don’t make me laugh AT ALL. Not even a little chuckle. Here, I was grinning, doing circles in my room, had to stand up and literally talk to myself to hype up even more. It had me on edge; it had me surprised but also it had me smirking a lot.😏
Another thing, is John Michael a nod to Paul Baker? It felt similar and I liked it since I like the show.
Now, why 4.5 starts and not 5 if I liked it so much? I rarely consider books 5 stars since I have a standard, my own, that the book needs to grab me and never release me until the end and beyond even. If there are any things I didn’t like they would be very, very small details.
Note to the author. Dear, oh dear author, why do you keep fading to black on things? Or very similarly, when the MC tells us something happened without it happening on page. I was not happy with that.
Secondly, the last +/- 100 pages of the book. Why did it feel like a bad drama episode? I understand that in real life, people go through horrible things but here the pile was too big. One too many. Because of it, the ending felt a bit too rushed for me. After all they’ve went through I expected just the tying of the beautiful bow but I didn’t fully get it. I got the bow but not as big one as I hoped for.
Sorry for the long rant! You might feel differently but that’s my honest review. Without hesitation, I recommend it! What I’m left with after reading Hothead?
Hope. I’m left with hope.🥹❤️
A book, on the longer end of the number of pages – 420 more or less. It didn’t feel too long or too short. The story itself, Tristan and Nick. Two different people, both with some sort of baggage gathered during their lives. They meet each other in a pretty unconventional way, in a kink club. They don’t end up spending much time together during their time there. But the universe had different plans and later on they happen to cross paths at their work – Station 27.
I like that kind of surprises because they can go in many directions. Both characters had a great and clear feel of their own personalities. I liked them very much. Tristan with his journey after what had happened to him not so long ago. And Nick with his own story but also strong and beautiful feelings that you could feel through the pages.
They got to know each other more and more and you could see how it truly was something special from the very beginning. I appreciate the gentle mentions of the cosmic and the universe itself. It wasn’t anything weird or too much but rather a way of looking at things similarly to the way I look at them. I think even if you have different beliefs, you can feel something different when it happens. That happened to Nick and Tristan.
Their romance felt natural and truly attractive. I could clearly see how they both looked at each other and the magnetism they felt toward each other. Immediately you know who had stronger feelings sooner and who had to work through them. It didn’t feel fake or instant in an unbelievable sense but rather a steady rise. Closer and closer towards each other, like two stars that were a unique match.
Furthermore, I must be one of the few readers who doesn’t mind the miscommunication element in romance but I also like the opposite. Here, I LOVED how they communicated with each other! Accomplished perfectly. And I’m not saying they didn’t have their bumps on the road because they did; which made it even better.
Side characters. Chasten and Yale – great friends, many look for that kind of kinship. Vinnie, I’m looking at you Vinnie, what’s up with you and… Charlie, maybe??? Mathilde, you’re amazing, forever. The rest was also good but not enough of interactions for me to actually make up my mind about them.
Every few pages I laughed at something one or the other said/thought and that’s impressive because most of the books I read don’t make me laugh AT ALL. Not even a little chuckle. Here, I was grinning, doing circles in my room, had to stand up and literally talk to myself to hype up even more. It had me on edge; it had me surprised but also it had me smirking a lot.😏
Another thing, is John Michael a nod to Paul Baker? It felt similar and I liked it since I like the show.
Now, why 4.5 starts and not 5 if I liked it so much? I rarely consider books 5 stars since I have a standard, my own, that the book needs to grab me and never release me until the end and beyond even. If there are any things I didn’t like they would be very, very small details.
Note to the author. Dear, oh dear author, why do you keep fading to black on things? Or very similarly, when the MC tells us something happened without it happening on page. I was not happy with that.
Secondly, the last +/- 100 pages of the book. Why did it feel like a bad drama episode? I understand that in real life, people go through horrible things but here the pile was too big. One too many. Because of it, the ending felt a bit too rushed for me. After all they’ve went through I expected just the tying of the beautiful bow but I didn’t fully get it. I got the bow but not as big one as I hoped for.
Sorry for the long rant! You might feel differently but that’s my honest review. Without hesitation, I recommend it! What I’m left with after reading Hothead?
Hope. I’m left with hope.🥹❤️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️4.5/5
Expect:
- firefighter romance ✔️
- dom/sub ✔️
- single dad✔️
- hidden relationship✔️
- found family✔️
- hurt/comfort ✔️
- forced proximity✔️
What’s hotter than one firefighter? Two of em 😏
Listen… BEFORE we get started, y’all remember Eddie (in the show 911) WITH the mustache?? Welp, that’s MY Nick. Which means Buck is def my Tristan so keep that in mind while reading Hothead and my review! (& also if you see my edits with these characters in them- mind yo business!!!!)
Lt. Nick Gutierrez Peña (which HELLO Latine MC🥵) is a single dad, a hot AF firefighter paramedic, & an even HOTTERdom. Tristan Cavanagh’s on a new journey; a new job, new friendships, & exploring a new world of KINK. Their sexy chance encounter gives them hope UNTIL it bursts into flames, when their next encounter becomes an AWKWARD first day, at fire station 27.
Live Update Review:
Their FIRST meet cute?! STFU I was NOT expecting it to be there but also…. Y’all I was already giddy af!!! Also the confidence on my man Nick?! HOT🥵
(Also please remember I don’t read the blurbs I just go off of tropes & vibesssss) like I legit don’t read the blurb until AFTER I’m done 💀
Anyway, my man Nick is soooo fxckn down BAD!!! Like this man is Hot, thoughtful AND funny?! I will KNEEL for Nick right fxckn now 🧎🏽♀️
Tristan!! 😭 I CANNOT with Tristan! I just want to wrap my sweet baby angel UP!!! And hold him! He just needs LOVE!! But like also what Nick is doing to this man?!! I wanna be Tristan so bad right now! 😩
Ok wait, the Station 27 family?! I love ALL of em 🥹🫶🏽 PS: now I need a book on every single one!! I LOVE when I fall in love with the side characters 😏
Bitchhhh, their FIRST TIME?? Someone DRAW it and put it in the motherfxckn LOUVRE!!!!! The ATTENTION, the CHECKING IN with one another, the VULNERABILITY?!! stawwwwp 😭. Like how was it so DELICIOUSLY FILTHY but also done with so much CARE?!!
Those last chapters?! Bitchhhhhh 😭 UGLY SNOT CRYING. The action there had me flipping through pages 📑 SO quick!!!
Hothead was my FIRST Kent Holland book but it definitely will not be my last! As one of my MOST anticipated books & I stg it did NOT disappoint; it was HOT, emotional, & romantic AF.
So if you love HOT 🔥 firemen & even HOTTER smut🥵, then get ready to slide DOWN that pole and see those SPARKS fly in Hothead on June 30th. 🫶🏽
Thank you Kent Holland & team for this ARC & as always, all opinions and thoughts are my own.
Expect:
- firefighter romance ✔️
- dom/sub ✔️
- single dad✔️
- hidden relationship✔️
- found family✔️
- hurt/comfort ✔️
- forced proximity✔️
What’s hotter than one firefighter? Two of em 😏
Listen… BEFORE we get started, y’all remember Eddie (in the show 911) WITH the mustache?? Welp, that’s MY Nick. Which means Buck is def my Tristan so keep that in mind while reading Hothead and my review! (& also if you see my edits with these characters in them- mind yo business!!!!)
Lt. Nick Gutierrez Peña (which HELLO Latine MC🥵) is a single dad, a hot AF firefighter paramedic, & an even HOTTERdom. Tristan Cavanagh’s on a new journey; a new job, new friendships, & exploring a new world of KINK. Their sexy chance encounter gives them hope UNTIL it bursts into flames, when their next encounter becomes an AWKWARD first day, at fire station 27.
Live Update Review:
Their FIRST meet cute?! STFU I was NOT expecting it to be there but also…. Y’all I was already giddy af!!! Also the confidence on my man Nick?! HOT🥵
(Also please remember I don’t read the blurbs I just go off of tropes & vibesssss) like I legit don’t read the blurb until AFTER I’m done 💀
Anyway, my man Nick is soooo fxckn down BAD!!! Like this man is Hot, thoughtful AND funny?! I will KNEEL for Nick right fxckn now 🧎🏽♀️
Tristan!! 😭 I CANNOT with Tristan! I just want to wrap my sweet baby angel UP!!! And hold him! He just needs LOVE!! But like also what Nick is doing to this man?!! I wanna be Tristan so bad right now! 😩
Ok wait, the Station 27 family?! I love ALL of em 🥹🫶🏽 PS: now I need a book on every single one!! I LOVE when I fall in love with the side characters 😏
Bitchhhh, their FIRST TIME?? Someone DRAW it and put it in the motherfxckn LOUVRE!!!!! The ATTENTION, the CHECKING IN with one another, the VULNERABILITY?!! stawwwwp 😭. Like how was it so DELICIOUSLY FILTHY but also done with so much CARE?!!
Those last chapters?! Bitchhhhhh 😭 UGLY SNOT CRYING. The action there had me flipping through pages 📑 SO quick!!!
Hothead was my FIRST Kent Holland book but it definitely will not be my last! As one of my MOST anticipated books & I stg it did NOT disappoint; it was HOT, emotional, & romantic AF.
So if you love HOT 🔥 firemen & even HOTTER smut🥵, then get ready to slide DOWN that pole and see those SPARKS fly in Hothead on June 30th. 🫶🏽
Thank you Kent Holland & team for this ARC & as always, all opinions and thoughts are my own.
July 2, 2026
This one started off strong. I liked the premise so much that I bought this book without a second thought. Unfortunately, for me, it did not live up to its potential for several reasons.
First of all, the writing was lacking. Not only were there lots of typos (which as a writer, I am well aware can and do happen to everyone), but there were lots of lazy shortcuts in the storytelling. Starting a chapter with something to effect of “over the next two weeks, they developed a close friendship. They spent a lot of time talking about everything and worked together like an effortless team.” Excuse me? That’s the kind of stuff we want to read. Don’t just TELL us that. And that didn’t happen once. It happened multiple times!
Add in the frequent devolution into preachy, progressive soap boxing, and I got real bored, real fast. I am progressive. I probably wouldn’t be reading this book at all if I weren’t, but I quickly got tired of the buzzword laden, church-bashing, hypocritical moments. There’s this whole idea represented here that anyone who questions your questionable proclivities in any way is a deplorable bigot. There’s one point where a queer character says that hetero sex gives him the ick and he doesn’t want to think about it. Can you imagine if that was the other way around? If a hetero character said homosexual sex was gross? There’d be hell to pay! Another character finds extremely public BDSM sex perverse and she’s represented as a demonic wench (which she is, but not for that reason).
Politics aside, I was very disappointed that this book has literally nothing to do with firefighting or emergency rescue. The very few calls they go to are ridiculous (a man who FELL ASLEEP during sex in a club bathroom and didn’t wake when his friends slapped him, a hateful old man faking a heart attack, etc) until the very end. I thought there would be element of fire and rescue here, but if the two main characters had been selling insurance at adjoining desks, it would change literally nothing about this story.
I didn’t like how Abbie was just a barely present pawn to give Nick a conflict. I’m tired of the “parents” in these books never parent. I also didn’t like how Warren slowly got painted into a selfish, terrible partner. Tristan could have loved them both! I didn’t find the shift from ER nurse to paramedic at all plausible. I didn’t like how shallow and peripheral the secondary relationships were. I didn’t like how whiny and weepy Tristan was. I just— didn’t like it, even though I really wanted to.
Overall, this was not for me, but it might be for you. 🤷🏻♀️ The spicy parts were pretty good, and I was pulling for the love story, but I spent most of the time rolling my eyes. Moving on.
First of all, the writing was lacking. Not only were there lots of typos (which as a writer, I am well aware can and do happen to everyone), but there were lots of lazy shortcuts in the storytelling. Starting a chapter with something to effect of “over the next two weeks, they developed a close friendship. They spent a lot of time talking about everything and worked together like an effortless team.” Excuse me? That’s the kind of stuff we want to read. Don’t just TELL us that. And that didn’t happen once. It happened multiple times!
Add in the frequent devolution into preachy, progressive soap boxing, and I got real bored, real fast. I am progressive. I probably wouldn’t be reading this book at all if I weren’t, but I quickly got tired of the buzzword laden, church-bashing, hypocritical moments. There’s this whole idea represented here that anyone who questions your questionable proclivities in any way is a deplorable bigot. There’s one point where a queer character says that hetero sex gives him the ick and he doesn’t want to think about it. Can you imagine if that was the other way around? If a hetero character said homosexual sex was gross? There’d be hell to pay! Another character finds extremely public BDSM sex perverse and she’s represented as a demonic wench (which she is, but not for that reason).
Politics aside, I was very disappointed that this book has literally nothing to do with firefighting or emergency rescue. The very few calls they go to are ridiculous (a man who FELL ASLEEP during sex in a club bathroom and didn’t wake when his friends slapped him, a hateful old man faking a heart attack, etc) until the very end. I thought there would be element of fire and rescue here, but if the two main characters had been selling insurance at adjoining desks, it would change literally nothing about this story.
I didn’t like how Abbie was just a barely present pawn to give Nick a conflict. I’m tired of the “parents” in these books never parent. I also didn’t like how Warren slowly got painted into a selfish, terrible partner. Tristan could have loved them both! I didn’t find the shift from ER nurse to paramedic at all plausible. I didn’t like how shallow and peripheral the secondary relationships were. I didn’t like how whiny and weepy Tristan was. I just— didn’t like it, even though I really wanted to.
Overall, this was not for me, but it might be for you. 🤷🏻♀️ The spicy parts were pretty good, and I was pulling for the love story, but I spent most of the time rolling my eyes. Moving on.
Review of advance copy received from Author
“My body feels like it was made to take him inside me, like I am a lock and he is the key.”
.
.
My introduction to firefighter romance comes in the form of an atmospheric, electrifying, and “scorching” story crafted by Kent Holland.
Tristan is looking to start anew after a loss, and change has wreaked havoc on his life. Nick is a family man solely focused on his daughter and career. A chance encounter, mutual attraction, and the potential for so much more was something neither bargained for. The only hiccup…they work together.
Think 911 but make it a romance novel…Hothead delivers on all fronts, from found family, angst, representation, and, of course, intimacy.
Things I Loved:
Grief In It’s Many Forms: Several incidents and changes occur throughout Hothead. These foster tougher conversations about grief and even non-finite loss. For me, I enjoyed how Kent penned Tristan’s navigation of grief and healing. He doesn’t shy away from real emotions and depictions when writing Hothead. For example, those moments when Tristan feels overwhelmed and scared, thus lashing out. Yet, there’s also a myriad of reflective moments where Tristan can honor the life and love he once had.
Relationships and Consent: From familial dynamics to Nick and Tristan’s relationship, there is a recurring emphasis placed on fostering healthy conversations and openness. Whether it’s Nick’s daughter or Tristan’s past, these two work diligently to keep open lines of communication with one another. They aren’t afraid to apologize when wrong or admit when they can’t say certain things back. I honestly found it both sexy and refreshing to see two men effectively communicate their wants and emotions so openly.
Overall, Hothead marks an enthralling read from Kent Holland. Combining harrowing moments, sizzling intimacy, and emotional gravitas, Hothead undoubtedly gets five stars from me.
.
.
My introduction to firefighter romance comes in the form of an atmospheric, electrifying, and “scorching” story crafted by Kent Holland.
Tristan is looking to start anew after a loss, and change has wreaked havoc on his life. Nick is a family man solely focused on his daughter and career. A chance encounter, mutual attraction, and the potential for so much more was something neither bargained for. The only hiccup…they work together.
Think 911 but make it a romance novel…Hothead delivers on all fronts, from found family, angst, representation, and, of course, intimacy.
Things I Loved:
Grief In It’s Many Forms: Several incidents and changes occur throughout Hothead. These foster tougher conversations about grief and even non-finite loss. For me, I enjoyed how Kent penned Tristan’s navigation of grief and healing. He doesn’t shy away from real emotions and depictions when writing Hothead. For example, those moments when Tristan feels overwhelmed and scared, thus lashing out. Yet, there’s also a myriad of reflective moments where Tristan can honor the life and love he once had.
Relationships and Consent: From familial dynamics to Nick and Tristan’s relationship, there is a recurring emphasis placed on fostering healthy conversations and openness. Whether it’s Nick’s daughter or Tristan’s past, these two work diligently to keep open lines of communication with one another. They aren’t afraid to apologize when wrong or admit when they can’t say certain things back. I honestly found it both sexy and refreshing to see two men effectively communicate their wants and emotions so openly.
Overall, Hothead marks an enthralling read from Kent Holland. Combining harrowing moments, sizzling intimacy, and emotional gravitas, Hothead undoubtedly gets five stars from me.
July 7, 2026
4.5⭐️ 3.5🌶️
A spicy, yet simply joyful read, sizzling with chemistry! 🔥
When I heard this was a MM firefighter-paramedic romance, I had to request this one immediately. What I didn’t expect was how emotionally driven this novel was and how more prominent this was in comparison to the steamy moments. I really adored this.
Both Nick, a single father, and Tristan, supporting his ill father and grieving his fiancé, were perfect for each other with their strong personalities. The chemistry was off the charts, the FWB was hot and their dynamics were brilliant. The trepidation of navigating a new relationship was delivered well and how Nick helped Tristan through, with patience and respect, was beautiful.
I praise Holland for the sex and kink positivity highlighted throughout and the emphasis that there are more flavours than vanilla. There was more than one hose being whipped out in the fire station and this was super fun. The submission, the control and the love was fiery!
I loved the medical elements weaved in with the story as they responded to emergencies together. The secondary characters were also great and provided so much love and affirmation. The final quarter took me by surprise!
This book is on the lengthy side, but I never felt that this was a problem. I found some of the chapter changes rather abrupt, however, I loved the dual POVs and read this book at each spare moment I had.
A huge thank you @kenthollandwrites for this ARC of Hothead, which it is out now! I am super excited for Holland to continue this series! 😍
You should check this read out! 🔥
⚠️ Please check out the trigger warnings! ⚠️
A spicy, yet simply joyful read, sizzling with chemistry! 🔥
When I heard this was a MM firefighter-paramedic romance, I had to request this one immediately. What I didn’t expect was how emotionally driven this novel was and how more prominent this was in comparison to the steamy moments. I really adored this.
Both Nick, a single father, and Tristan, supporting his ill father and grieving his fiancé, were perfect for each other with their strong personalities. The chemistry was off the charts, the FWB was hot and their dynamics were brilliant. The trepidation of navigating a new relationship was delivered well and how Nick helped Tristan through, with patience and respect, was beautiful.
I praise Holland for the sex and kink positivity highlighted throughout and the emphasis that there are more flavours than vanilla. There was more than one hose being whipped out in the fire station and this was super fun. The submission, the control and the love was fiery!
I loved the medical elements weaved in with the story as they responded to emergencies together. The secondary characters were also great and provided so much love and affirmation. The final quarter took me by surprise!
This book is on the lengthy side, but I never felt that this was a problem. I found some of the chapter changes rather abrupt, however, I loved the dual POVs and read this book at each spare moment I had.
A huge thank you @kenthollandwrites for this ARC of Hothead, which it is out now! I am super excited for Holland to continue this series! 😍
You should check this read out! 🔥
⚠️ Please check out the trigger warnings! ⚠️
July 16, 2026
A must read!!
Wow this book was so good! This was my first from Kent Holland and It didn’t disappoint! I’m obsessed with Tristan and Nick’s story, it was emotional, funny, sweet and also very raw and real. The grief in this book was very heavy but the way it was handled and the support Tristan had was incredible. The emotional journey we go through with Tristan was intense and you just wanted to hug him and cry with him. Nick was not only an incredible friend but an incredible partner. He was patient and kind to Tristan, he didn’t rush him through his grief, Nick walked him through it. Tristan also was steady and attentive towards Nick while he went through his hardships as a single father. Another really important element that was done so well was the D/S relationship in this story and the overall view of the kink community. A lot of people look down on the kink community and this book not only addresses that but shows just how beneficial having a safe space to explore your interests with someone who’s safe is. It touched on how important consent is, not only in the bedroom but also in the relationship and how it can help you navigate healthy communication in all areas of the relationship. I love how this book approached Tristan and Nick’s BDSM interests and the positive light it portrayed it in. The found family in this book was great and I can’t wait to see whose book is next.
Wow this book was so good! This was my first from Kent Holland and It didn’t disappoint! I’m obsessed with Tristan and Nick’s story, it was emotional, funny, sweet and also very raw and real. The grief in this book was very heavy but the way it was handled and the support Tristan had was incredible. The emotional journey we go through with Tristan was intense and you just wanted to hug him and cry with him. Nick was not only an incredible friend but an incredible partner. He was patient and kind to Tristan, he didn’t rush him through his grief, Nick walked him through it. Tristan also was steady and attentive towards Nick while he went through his hardships as a single father. Another really important element that was done so well was the D/S relationship in this story and the overall view of the kink community. A lot of people look down on the kink community and this book not only addresses that but shows just how beneficial having a safe space to explore your interests with someone who’s safe is. It touched on how important consent is, not only in the bedroom but also in the relationship and how it can help you navigate healthy communication in all areas of the relationship. I love how this book approached Tristan and Nick’s BDSM interests and the positive light it portrayed it in. The found family in this book was great and I can’t wait to see whose book is next.
July 22, 2026
While I did enjoy this book and adored Tristan and Nick, I will say I was not expecting this book to be as heavy as it is when I picked it up.
The relationship feels a bit too quick but not easy, but there's also several plots taking place at the same time, which felt weird. We've got these two figuring out their feelings for each other, Tristan grieving over his dead fiancé, Nick trying to be the best dad and partner he can, a custody battle, Tristan dealing with his father and the Alzheimer's diagnosis, and then to top it off it ends with quite a bit of death.
I.... I thought I was going to get a cute lil smutty Firefighter book and instead got quite a bit of angst. Everything ties up a bit too easily in the end but I was very confused on the sexual bits. This book openly talks about BDSM, consent, what kinks they're interested in trying out, talking thoroughly about it, but then their first time is fade to black and other times kind of gloss over it. There's a few scenes I understand the need to talk, check in with safewords, and discuss but most of the time they were together, it was quick and done. So, that left me a bit confused. I'm pretty sure I know who book 2 is about and I'm curious how that's going to go.
This author is definitely talented and again, I enjoyed reading it. I think it was just hyped up to be spicy and cute and instead delivered something else entirely.
The relationship feels a bit too quick but not easy, but there's also several plots taking place at the same time, which felt weird. We've got these two figuring out their feelings for each other, Tristan grieving over his dead fiancé, Nick trying to be the best dad and partner he can, a custody battle, Tristan dealing with his father and the Alzheimer's diagnosis, and then to top it off it ends with quite a bit of death.
I.... I thought I was going to get a cute lil smutty Firefighter book and instead got quite a bit of angst. Everything ties up a bit too easily in the end but I was very confused on the sexual bits. This book openly talks about BDSM, consent, what kinks they're interested in trying out, talking thoroughly about it, but then their first time is fade to black and other times kind of gloss over it. There's a few scenes I understand the need to talk, check in with safewords, and discuss but most of the time they were together, it was quick and done. So, that left me a bit confused. I'm pretty sure I know who book 2 is about and I'm curious how that's going to go.
This author is definitely talented and again, I enjoyed reading it. I think it was just hyped up to be spicy and cute and instead delivered something else entirely.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Review ✨ — I absolutely loved this book! I knew from the very first page that I would and boy am I glad I requested an ARC for this one! The story is so authentic, so raw, delving into grief and new beginnings. I couldn’t put it down, honestly.
Nick and Tristan have such great chemistry throughout this book. Their relationships feels so natural and right as the story progresses. The way Nick eases Tristan into a new world, a world where he can finally be himself, fully and truly. The way Tristan deals with his grief, with the loss of his fiancé and losing himself in that relationship. The way Holland deals with it is so well done, you really do feel all the feelings of both Nick and Tristan.
I absolutely did shed many tears reading this one. I thought it was such a beautiful and well written story. Both main characters had such big feelings, for each other, and for their own worlds and the issues that come with that but together they really do make it work. This is an incredible example of two people being able to grow together, and grow as individuals.
And of course the spicy kinky side of this book was soo well done. Overall, I had a really really good time with this and I would recommend it to anyone who likes a bit of kink with their romance, as well as found family vibes, a dash of angst and yearning.
Nick and Tristan have such great chemistry throughout this book. Their relationships feels so natural and right as the story progresses. The way Nick eases Tristan into a new world, a world where he can finally be himself, fully and truly. The way Tristan deals with his grief, with the loss of his fiancé and losing himself in that relationship. The way Holland deals with it is so well done, you really do feel all the feelings of both Nick and Tristan.
I absolutely did shed many tears reading this one. I thought it was such a beautiful and well written story. Both main characters had such big feelings, for each other, and for their own worlds and the issues that come with that but together they really do make it work. This is an incredible example of two people being able to grow together, and grow as individuals.
And of course the spicy kinky side of this book was soo well done. Overall, I had a really really good time with this and I would recommend it to anyone who likes a bit of kink with their romance, as well as found family vibes, a dash of angst and yearning.
July 2, 2026
I received a free Advance Reader Copy (ARC) of Hothead by Kent Holland in exchange for an honest review.
Listen… this book wrecked me. I picked it up expecting a really steamy MM romance. And don’t get me wrong! It absolutely delivered on that. 🥵 But I was not expecting to cry, laugh out loud (seriously… the underwear model 😂), and end up thinking about parts of myself I’d never really given much thought before.
There’s a passage where one of the characters talks about growing up feeling like he had to edit himself into the person everyone else wanted him to be. As a gay man who grew up in a conservative Christian family… that stopped me in my tracks. It actually became my very first Kindle highlight because I couldn’t just keep reading. I had to put the book down for a minute and just…sit with it.
Without spoiling anything, this story has so much heart. It’s funny, ridiculously sexy, emotional, and so incredibly honest. I found myself tearing up more than once.
I honestly thought I knew what a five-star book looked like. Turns out… I didn’t. I’ve given out plenty of five-star ratings, but Hothead completely changed what a five-star read means to me. I don’t know if I can give this book a bigger compliment than that.
Thank you, Kent Holland, for trusting me with an early copy of a story I’ll be thinking about for a long, long time.
Listen… this book wrecked me. I picked it up expecting a really steamy MM romance. And don’t get me wrong! It absolutely delivered on that. 🥵 But I was not expecting to cry, laugh out loud (seriously… the underwear model 😂), and end up thinking about parts of myself I’d never really given much thought before.
There’s a passage where one of the characters talks about growing up feeling like he had to edit himself into the person everyone else wanted him to be. As a gay man who grew up in a conservative Christian family… that stopped me in my tracks. It actually became my very first Kindle highlight because I couldn’t just keep reading. I had to put the book down for a minute and just…sit with it.
Without spoiling anything, this story has so much heart. It’s funny, ridiculously sexy, emotional, and so incredibly honest. I found myself tearing up more than once.
I honestly thought I knew what a five-star book looked like. Turns out… I didn’t. I’ve given out plenty of five-star ratings, but Hothead completely changed what a five-star read means to me. I don’t know if I can give this book a bigger compliment than that.
Thank you, Kent Holland, for trusting me with an early copy of a story I’ll be thinking about for a long, long time.
July 9, 2026
Not only was this my first Firefighter/Paramedic romance, but it was also my first Kent Holland book and it definitely did not disappoint. I went into this expecting a fun, spicy read, and while it absolutely delivered on that, it was also so much more. My emotions were all over the place. I laughed, and although I wasn’t expecting to cry, I definitely did. More than once.
Tristan moves back to his hometown for a fresh start while trying to come to terms with the loss of his Fiancée and cope with his father’s declining health. Nick is a devoted single dad who is trying his best to give his daughter a loving, and stable home. They both have a lot weighing on them, and I loved watching them become a source of safety, comfort and support for one another. Their relationship felt authentic and their emotional connection felt genuine.
Tristan and Nick’s chemistry was incredible from the very beginning but what really stood out was the emphasis on consent and communication. Nick was an absolute consent king, and I loved how he gave Tristan a safe, judgement free zone to explore parts of himself he never been able to embrace before. They started off as FWB, and I thought the progression of their relationship into something deeper felt natural and believable!
Overall, if you are looking for a beautifully written romance that’s spicy, emotionally impactful, filled with very well written firefighter/paramedic scenes, and has a lot of amazing side characters, I definitely recommend this one! Just be prepared for an emotional rollercoaster!
Tristan moves back to his hometown for a fresh start while trying to come to terms with the loss of his Fiancée and cope with his father’s declining health. Nick is a devoted single dad who is trying his best to give his daughter a loving, and stable home. They both have a lot weighing on them, and I loved watching them become a source of safety, comfort and support for one another. Their relationship felt authentic and their emotional connection felt genuine.
Tristan and Nick’s chemistry was incredible from the very beginning but what really stood out was the emphasis on consent and communication. Nick was an absolute consent king, and I loved how he gave Tristan a safe, judgement free zone to explore parts of himself he never been able to embrace before. They started off as FWB, and I thought the progression of their relationship into something deeper felt natural and believable!
Overall, if you are looking for a beautifully written romance that’s spicy, emotionally impactful, filled with very well written firefighter/paramedic scenes, and has a lot of amazing side characters, I definitely recommend this one! Just be prepared for an emotional rollercoaster!
July 8, 2026
Take a wrecking ball to my heart why don’t ya! Hothead is very hot, yes, but it is also a deep exploration of grief. Tristan and Nick begin a no-strings-attached arrangement, but they can’t seem to keep emotions out of it. Their arrangement is what helps Tristan get out of his own head and start healing from what he’s lost and what he’s going to lose. I did not expect this story to bring tears to my eyes but the end of the story definitely got me.
I will say at times it felt like there was too much happening and moments were glossed over. Really, it comes down to pacing. We have Tristan who is busy juggling the grief of losing his fiancé and navigating his father’s health decline while starting a new career. Then he begins to explore kink with Nick, who is dealing with his ex. It was like the focal point as being ping-ponged around. Toss in the end of the story and wowza there is a lot to sift through.
There are also 104 chapters in a 430 page book. It makes things feel very choppy when chapters are consistently 1-5 pages long.
Despite the pacing, I look forward to seeing what comes next in this universe.
I will say at times it felt like there was too much happening and moments were glossed over. Really, it comes down to pacing. We have Tristan who is busy juggling the grief of losing his fiancé and navigating his father’s health decline while starting a new career. Then he begins to explore kink with Nick, who is dealing with his ex. It was like the focal point as being ping-ponged around. Toss in the end of the story and wowza there is a lot to sift through.
There are also 104 chapters in a 430 page book. It makes things feel very choppy when chapters are consistently 1-5 pages long.
Despite the pacing, I look forward to seeing what comes next in this universe.
Review of advance copy received from Author
~ Vanilla is an allright flavor, but there is so much more to try ~
My first Kent Holland book, and oh boy… definitely not my last.
After a traumatic loss of his partner, Tristan moves to San Francisco to become a firefighter paramedic. The handsome single parent Nick becomes his mentor and soon also his fuckbuddy. What starts as an exploratory D/s relationship with no strings attached slowly turns into more…
Both characters felt lovable and genuine, and with all the grief, the struggles as a single parent and as a son with an aging parent, as well as with the beautifully written yearning, I grew quite fond of both of them. For half the book, I felt the urge to hug Tristan because he is so cute and his grieving gave me so many emotions.
The story is smutty and hot without becoming filthy. For me personally, some scenes could have been a bit longer before fading to black.
For me, Hothead is the perfect book for a hot summer beach read!
Review based on Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) provided by Kent Holland
My first Kent Holland book, and oh boy… definitely not my last.
After a traumatic loss of his partner, Tristan moves to San Francisco to become a firefighter paramedic. The handsome single parent Nick becomes his mentor and soon also his fuckbuddy. What starts as an exploratory D/s relationship with no strings attached slowly turns into more…
Both characters felt lovable and genuine, and with all the grief, the struggles as a single parent and as a son with an aging parent, as well as with the beautifully written yearning, I grew quite fond of both of them. For half the book, I felt the urge to hug Tristan because he is so cute and his grieving gave me so many emotions.
The story is smutty and hot without becoming filthy. For me personally, some scenes could have been a bit longer before fading to black.
For me, Hothead is the perfect book for a hot summer beach read!
Review based on Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) provided by Kent Holland
July 3, 2026
This is a coworkers to more romance, featuring Nick and Tristan, and is book one in the Hothead series.
Tristan and Nick agree to a no-strings relationship, despite their growing attraction. When tragedy hits, they must confront their feelings and decide if love is worth the risk.
I really enjoyed this one. Nick and Tristan have undeniable chemistry and I loved how they approached their FWB situationship and then bam, they both caught feelings. Great found family vibes and the suspense & drama had me on the edge of my seat and then had me crying. I can’t wait to read the next book.
Things to expect in this book are:
Book 1 in series
MM romance
Firefighters
Coworkers to more
Single dad
Fetish club meet cute
Hurt / comfort
Grief & healing
Spicy times & dirty talk
Friends with benefits
Kink exploration
Dom / sub
Lingerie & praise kink
S*x toys & blindfold
Foot fetish & cum play
Cock ring, Cock cage
Car s*x & s*x club
Exhibitionism & pain play
Watersports
Both catch feelings
Suspense & drama
Found family
HEA
Tristan and Nick agree to a no-strings relationship, despite their growing attraction. When tragedy hits, they must confront their feelings and decide if love is worth the risk.
I really enjoyed this one. Nick and Tristan have undeniable chemistry and I loved how they approached their FWB situationship and then bam, they both caught feelings. Great found family vibes and the suspense & drama had me on the edge of my seat and then had me crying. I can’t wait to read the next book.
Things to expect in this book are:
Book 1 in series
MM romance
Firefighters
Coworkers to more
Single dad
Fetish club meet cute
Hurt / comfort
Grief & healing
Spicy times & dirty talk
Friends with benefits
Kink exploration
Dom / sub
Lingerie & praise kink
S*x toys & blindfold
Foot fetish & cum play
Cock ring, Cock cage
Car s*x & s*x club
Exhibitionism & pain play
Watersports
Both catch feelings
Suspense & drama
Found family
HEA
July 6, 2026
This was somewhere between a 3-4 star read for me. It was my first by this author.
At the beginning, I was excited about where this book could go, but like a match, it burned brightly at the beginning and then sort of fizzled for me. The first few intimate scenes were "fade to black" which took me totally by surprise as it's supposed to be a dom/sub, kink heavy plot. But, maybe that's how most of this author's books are. I just expected more, I guess. Neither wanted to be in a relationship, but were immediately in a relationship while they both continued saying it wasn't a relationship.... 🤷🏼♀️
There were so many story lines and major life issues in this book. Nick had a dangerous job, was a single father, and kink enthusiast. Then we had to add in the baby-mama drama that was a blip on the radar in the end. Tristan had dead fiancé, dad with alzheimers, and moving back home to start out with.
At 80%, we add the workplace drama, a cartoon villain for a 911 call, and then this almost Grey's Anatomy type catastrophe. It all felt over the top and kind left me feeling bored.
At the beginning, I was excited about where this book could go, but like a match, it burned brightly at the beginning and then sort of fizzled for me. The first few intimate scenes were "fade to black" which took me totally by surprise as it's supposed to be a dom/sub, kink heavy plot. But, maybe that's how most of this author's books are. I just expected more, I guess. Neither wanted to be in a relationship, but were immediately in a relationship while they both continued saying it wasn't a relationship.... 🤷🏼♀️
There were so many story lines and major life issues in this book. Nick had a dangerous job, was a single father, and kink enthusiast. Then we had to add in the baby-mama drama that was a blip on the radar in the end. Tristan had dead fiancé, dad with alzheimers, and moving back home to start out with.
At 80%, we add the workplace drama, a cartoon villain for a 911 call, and then this almost Grey's Anatomy type catastrophe. It all felt over the top and kind left me feeling bored.
June 30, 2026
I had such a good time with this one! Going into it I definitely didn’t realize that it was going to have some truly heavy topics but I think the author did a good job handling them with care. There are definitely a lot of triggers to be aware of so check the content warnings if you need to! I really loved the tender love that was built between Tristan and Nick and how much they cared for each other. I love a book that doesn’t follow the typical third act break up and finds a way to have conflict or tension for the couple that they go through together instead. I think the only reason this wasn’t 5 stars for me is because the ending felt rushed and especially with how long this book was I really wish the time had been taken to finish off the story with more detail. However I still really enjoyed this book and would highly recommend it!
Thanks to the author for providing me with an e-ARC!
Thanks to the author for providing me with an e-ARC!
July 5, 2026
Was I eagerly awaiting the relase of Hothead by Kent Holland? Yes it was marked on my calendar. Was i disappointed? Hell to the NO. This is the storyline "911 buddie" fan wished they got.
I was hooked from the prologue.
Both main characters, Tristan the "probie" with a traumatic past, and Nick, the single father with a kinky side, are extremely likable from page one.
They meet in a kink club one night and the attraction is instantaneous, unfortunately they discover they are co workers, and acting on that attraction probably isnt smart.
Well, until Nick offers up his DOM services so Tristan can safely explore is interest in BSDM. Friends with benefits with ropes, gags, and blindfolds.
Both men declare no feelings just sex.....we all know how that turns out.
The spice is spicey, the writing is excellent and teh story keeps the pages turning.
Definitely, lived up to my expectations.
4.5 stars.
I was hooked from the prologue.
Both main characters, Tristan the "probie" with a traumatic past, and Nick, the single father with a kinky side, are extremely likable from page one.
They meet in a kink club one night and the attraction is instantaneous, unfortunately they discover they are co workers, and acting on that attraction probably isnt smart.
Well, until Nick offers up his DOM services so Tristan can safely explore is interest in BSDM. Friends with benefits with ropes, gags, and blindfolds.
Both men declare no feelings just sex.....we all know how that turns out.
The spice is spicey, the writing is excellent and teh story keeps the pages turning.
Definitely, lived up to my expectations.
4.5 stars.
July 7, 2026
Hothead is the kind of romance that makes you believe in love!! I loved Tristan and Nick (and Abigail!!) so much, and their slow descent into falling for one another. The found family dynamic of Station 27 is also CHEFS KISS!!!! Vinnie, Charlie, Mila, and Captain Hyun have my whole heart.
Kent Holland is the king of palpable sexual tension. His books never fail to get my heart racing before the characters have so much as shared a simple kiss. And I’ve said it before (in my review for Honey, Moon last year), and I’ll say it again, THE EMOTIONS!!! The way that I went through a kaleidoscope of emotions in this book. More masterful work by Holland.
It is on the longer side (the paperback hitting 493 pages), but I found the novel very bingeable — I devoured it in about 24 hours 🙈— and lowkey I wouldn’t have minded if it was longer.
I am GNAWING at the bars of my enclosure for book 2!! Kent Holland I am in your walls
If you’re a fan of shows like 9-1-1 or Station 19, I highly recommend this book!!
The Vibes:
🔥 Firefighter-paramedics
🔥 Opposites attract
🔥 Single dad
🔥 Found family
🔥 Processing trauma
🔥 F buddies
🔥 Dom / sub
Kent Holland is the king of palpable sexual tension. His books never fail to get my heart racing before the characters have so much as shared a simple kiss. And I’ve said it before (in my review for Honey, Moon last year), and I’ll say it again, THE EMOTIONS!!! The way that I went through a kaleidoscope of emotions in this book. More masterful work by Holland.
It is on the longer side (the paperback hitting 493 pages), but I found the novel very bingeable — I devoured it in about 24 hours 🙈— and lowkey I wouldn’t have minded if it was longer.
I am GNAWING at the bars of my enclosure for book 2!! Kent Holland I am in your walls
If you’re a fan of shows like 9-1-1 or Station 19, I highly recommend this book!!
The Vibes:
🔥 Firefighter-paramedics
🔥 Opposites attract
🔥 Single dad
🔥 Found family
🔥 Processing trauma
🔥 F buddies
🔥 Dom / sub
July 26, 2026
So, I don’t normally leave reviews, but this was the first of this author that I’ve read, and I was surprised and delighted by this book. The content has the potential to be heavy for some so please check CW’s, but Nick and Tristan (especially Tristan), were absolutely stunning in character development and complexity.
We follow Tristan, who has moved back home to San Francisco after the death of his fiancé, and to help care for his father. Tristan is attempting a new beginning- a new job as a Firefighter paramedic, and exploring the kink world in a way he has never felt able to before.
Enter Nick- a calm and sure man, who, when he is not working as a firefighter paramedic is taking care of his young daughter, Abigail.
Tristan and Nick collide in a way that gave me butterflies. I was enamored with the exploration of love, grief, kink, and joy.
“And I learned that sometimes, the best way to save a plant is to uproot it and find new soil.” Tristan
We follow Tristan, who has moved back home to San Francisco after the death of his fiancé, and to help care for his father. Tristan is attempting a new beginning- a new job as a Firefighter paramedic, and exploring the kink world in a way he has never felt able to before.
Enter Nick- a calm and sure man, who, when he is not working as a firefighter paramedic is taking care of his young daughter, Abigail.
Tristan and Nick collide in a way that gave me butterflies. I was enamored with the exploration of love, grief, kink, and joy.
“And I learned that sometimes, the best way to save a plant is to uproot it and find new soil.” Tristan
June 5, 2026
I knew by Chapter 2 that I was going to love this book. A firefighter who’s only interested in someone looking to be his sub? Yes please!!
What I didn’t expect was how emotionally invested I’d become in the story. Hothead tackles trauma, grief, and some incredibly heavy topics, but at its core, it’s a reminder that having the right person in your corner can help you make it through even the darkest moments. This book had me crying actual tears - and that does not happen often.
And of course there’s plenty of hot and spicy scenes! I did find myself wishing a few more moments had been fully written out on the page rather than summarized with an "and other things happened too," but that may just be the smut-loving reader in me.
This was my first Kent Holland book, and I'm thoroughly impressed. I'll definitely be reading more from this author!
What I didn’t expect was how emotionally invested I’d become in the story. Hothead tackles trauma, grief, and some incredibly heavy topics, but at its core, it’s a reminder that having the right person in your corner can help you make it through even the darkest moments. This book had me crying actual tears - and that does not happen often.
And of course there’s plenty of hot and spicy scenes! I did find myself wishing a few more moments had been fully written out on the page rather than summarized with an "and other things happened too," but that may just be the smut-loving reader in me.
This was my first Kent Holland book, and I'm thoroughly impressed. I'll definitely be reading more from this author!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Hothead: ★ ★ ★ . 5
Kent Holland (Hothead, #1)
“You are an answer to so many questions I didn’t know I’d asked.”
After a personal tragedy, Tristan moves to San Francisco to be closer to his father. But San Francisco seems to have a lot of perks such as a very hot coworker.
Tropes:
— BDSM
— Friends with benefits
— Workplace romance
— Single dad
— Sneaking around
— Love after loss
Wow, those last chapters truly felt like an episode straight out of 911! Buddie is real! Sound the alarms!!
All jokes aside, this was such a sweet book that I finished in one sitting. It explores topics of grief and comfort with sexuality and so much more. Nick and Tristan’s story is filled with heart, emotion, and of course, plenty of spice.
If you’re waiting for Buck and Eddie to be canon (aren’t we all) this is the book for you.
Kent Holland (Hothead, #1)
“You are an answer to so many questions I didn’t know I’d asked.”
After a personal tragedy, Tristan moves to San Francisco to be closer to his father. But San Francisco seems to have a lot of perks such as a very hot coworker.
Tropes:
— BDSM
— Friends with benefits
— Workplace romance
— Single dad
— Sneaking around
— Love after loss
Wow, those last chapters truly felt like an episode straight out of 911! Buddie is real! Sound the alarms!!
All jokes aside, this was such a sweet book that I finished in one sitting. It explores topics of grief and comfort with sexuality and so much more. Nick and Tristan’s story is filled with heart, emotion, and of course, plenty of spice.
If you’re waiting for Buck and Eddie to be canon (aren’t we all) this is the book for you.
July 26, 2026
Once again, Kent Holland manages to write the perfect combination of sweet and spicy. And things do get *spicy* in this one. I really enjoyed Tristan’s character and watching him navigate life after tragedy. The progression of his healing felt natural and so did the progression of his arrangement with Nick. I’ve said this in a review before but Kent is really good at writing emotionally mature characters and ones that feel like real people. I really appreciated the way the BDSM community and dynamic were portrayed in the book. I think the subplot of Tristan’s grief was enough of a conflict in the book that the other issues that came up felt like they ended up on the back burner like Overall, this is a fun, easy read and I enjoyed it. I look forward to the next book in the series.
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