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Rochester Copperheads #2
Spectrum & Smoke
One firefighter. One hockey player. One slow burn neither of them planned for.
Russell "Chip" Cornish plays hockey the way his brain works best — in angles and patterns, with rules he can trust. Off the ice, the world is harder. He sticks to his routines, relies on his assistance dog Sable, and keeps most people at arm's length. When a fire guts his gym and the firefighter who carries him out turns out to be impossible to forget, Chip finds himself doing something he's never been good at—letting someone in.
Dane Rourke didn't plan on remembering the man he pulled from that fire. He didn't plan on the cupcakes, or the hockey game, or the slow accumulation of evenings that started meaning more than they should. Getting involved with someone he rescued is the kind of thing that ends careers, and Dane knows it. What he doesn't know is how to stop.
Spectrum & Smoke is a steamy, slow-burn MM hockey romance featuring neurodivergent rep, an assistance dog who steals every scene she's in, opposites attract, and a love story that goes all the way to Game Seven.
Russell "Chip" Cornish plays hockey the way his brain works best — in angles and patterns, with rules he can trust. Off the ice, the world is harder. He sticks to his routines, relies on his assistance dog Sable, and keeps most people at arm's length. When a fire guts his gym and the firefighter who carries him out turns out to be impossible to forget, Chip finds himself doing something he's never been good at—letting someone in.
Dane Rourke didn't plan on remembering the man he pulled from that fire. He didn't plan on the cupcakes, or the hockey game, or the slow accumulation of evenings that started meaning more than they should. Getting involved with someone he rescued is the kind of thing that ends careers, and Dane knows it. What he doesn't know is how to stop.
Spectrum & Smoke is a steamy, slow-burn MM hockey romance featuring neurodivergent rep, an assistance dog who steals every scene she's in, opposites attract, and a love story that goes all the way to Game Seven.
203 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 23, 2026
About the author
R.J. Scott
319 books2,736 followersRJ Scott writes heartwarming, passionate MM/gay romance stories where every man finds his happily ever after. When not writing, she enjoys reading books, watching movies, spending time with her family, following Formula 1 (Forza Ferrari!), and cheering on the Pittsburgh Penguins. Email her here: rj@rjscott.co.uk
Find RJ here: Amazon | BookBub | Facebook - Also, Never miss a release
Find RJ here: Amazon | BookBub | Facebook - Also, Never miss a release
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
July 5, 2026
Sweet mm romance between hockey player Chip and firefighter Dane.
As the title hints at, the story focuses heavily on one side on the implications of being a firefighter, the culture (Dane talks about his "brothers and sisters" at the fire station), responsibility and hero-worshipping, and on the other side it focuses on how Chip, being autistic, lives his life and encounters challenges and prejudices.
Watching Chip and Dane fall in love was enjoyable to read. They're obviously perfect for each other.
There's next to no drama, no miscommunication, no third act break-up.
As the title hints at, the story focuses heavily on one side on the implications of being a firefighter, the culture (Dane talks about his "brothers and sisters" at the fire station), responsibility and hero-worshipping, and on the other side it focuses on how Chip, being autistic, lives his life and encounters challenges and prejudices.
Watching Chip and Dane fall in love was enjoyable to read. They're obviously perfect for each other.
There's next to no drama, no miscommunication, no third act break-up.
June 26, 2026
5 easy stars for a quick fix in the feel-good category. ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Freaking adorable 😊.
I smiled all the way through this book. A firefighter and an autistic hockey player. Zero angst, full on, wholesome love. This story was a feel good bundle of joy.
Freaking adorable 😊.
I smiled all the way through this book. A firefighter and an autistic hockey player. Zero angst, full on, wholesome love. This story was a feel good bundle of joy.
July 2, 2026
A wonderful story
As the author acknowledged, if you know a person with autism, you know one person with autism. I'm so happy to have met hockey player Chip and firefighter Dane.
As the author acknowledged, if you know a person with autism, you know one person with autism. I'm so happy to have met hockey player Chip and firefighter Dane.
July 2, 2026
I’m used to RJ and V.L. writing stories that just hit you up in the feels but this one was so exceptionally well written. Chip and Dane are the most beautiful characters I’ve ever read.
The way they wrote Chip’s character was so touching and empowering at the same time. He was smart, independent and so articulate.
Dane saving Chip from a fire and Chip falling for him was the cutest thing. His decision to pursue something with him was so funny and adorable. He calculated every aspect of how he’d go about it and just went for it😅
His constant random facts were so endearing. For most people that would have been annoying, but not for Dane. He actually enjoyed Chip telling him about things he’d never stopped to consider.
Dane found Chip to be fascinating on so many levels. He admired his honesty and how forward he was. He liked Chip from the moment he rescued him from that fire but was afraid that their relationship was based on trauma bonding. But Chip being the person that he was, made it very clear that wasn’t the case.
Having to tell his superiors about his relationship with Chip was nerve wracking. But Dane was willing to do whatever it took to keep him, even if that meant losing his job.
I loved that Chip wasn’t afraid to stand up for himself and Dane. He loved Dane and wasn’t afraid to respectfully tell people off😂 I really loved how feisty he was when it came to his man.
“𝑰’𝒎 𝒈𝒐𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒕𝒐 𝒏𝒆𝒆𝒅 𝒕𝒐 𝒔𝒂𝒚 𝑰 𝒍𝒐𝒗𝒆 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒂𝒈𝒂𝒊𝒏. 𝑷𝒓𝒐𝒃𝒂𝒃𝒍𝒚 𝒂 𝒍𝒐𝒕. 𝑰 𝒉𝒂𝒗𝒆 𝒂 𝒃𝒂𝒄𝒌𝒍𝒐𝒈 𝒐𝒇 𝒏𝒊𝒏𝒆𝒕𝒆𝒆𝒏 𝒅𝒂𝒚𝒔.”
This was just such a sweet story. I really loved Chip and Dane so much. Can’t wait for Taff’s story.
The way they wrote Chip’s character was so touching and empowering at the same time. He was smart, independent and so articulate.
Dane saving Chip from a fire and Chip falling for him was the cutest thing. His decision to pursue something with him was so funny and adorable. He calculated every aspect of how he’d go about it and just went for it😅
His constant random facts were so endearing. For most people that would have been annoying, but not for Dane. He actually enjoyed Chip telling him about things he’d never stopped to consider.
Dane found Chip to be fascinating on so many levels. He admired his honesty and how forward he was. He liked Chip from the moment he rescued him from that fire but was afraid that their relationship was based on trauma bonding. But Chip being the person that he was, made it very clear that wasn’t the case.
Having to tell his superiors about his relationship with Chip was nerve wracking. But Dane was willing to do whatever it took to keep him, even if that meant losing his job.
I loved that Chip wasn’t afraid to stand up for himself and Dane. He loved Dane and wasn’t afraid to respectfully tell people off😂 I really loved how feisty he was when it came to his man.
“𝑰’𝒎 𝒈𝒐𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒕𝒐 𝒏𝒆𝒆𝒅 𝒕𝒐 𝒔𝒂𝒚 𝑰 𝒍𝒐𝒗𝒆 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒂𝒈𝒂𝒊𝒏. 𝑷𝒓𝒐𝒃𝒂𝒃𝒍𝒚 𝒂 𝒍𝒐𝒕. 𝑰 𝒉𝒂𝒗𝒆 𝒂 𝒃𝒂𝒄𝒌𝒍𝒐𝒈 𝒐𝒇 𝒏𝒊𝒏𝒆𝒕𝒆𝒆𝒏 𝒅𝒂𝒚𝒔.”
This was just such a sweet story. I really loved Chip and Dane so much. Can’t wait for Taff’s story.
Read
June 23, 2026Sometimes you can only describe a book as lovely... and this is one of those times. Both Chip and Dane are sweet and likeable from the get-go and the only real tension comes from how they met... The communication is great, the chemistry builds nicely and the spice level is swoony and just the right amount of steamy... oh yeah and it's a hockey player/firefighter romance with amazing autism rep ... what more do you need to know?
June 19, 2026
There’s a new character in Scott/Locey’s world vying for my affection. Look out Ten, you have competition!
Russell “Chip” Cornish plays hockey. He also happens to be on the autism spectrum. But autism is not a liability. “The ice would turn out to be the one place in which my brain ran cleanly without my having to argue with it.” He finds “Hockey, specifically, rewarded the way my brain worked rather than asking it to work differently”.
Dane Rourke is a 3rd generation firefighter. He knows he can’t get involved with someone he rescued. Worries about trauma bonding are real.
And yet.
Chip, who has a wonderful assistance dog, Sable, and Dane have the kind of simmering slow-burn romance that is a joy to read. Dane accepts Chip 100% and just seems to understand him in a bone-deep level. Their connection is emotionally rewarding to the reader.
Side characters, like firefighter Courtney Pearce, and the dear Rabbi also enliven the text. Scott and Locey brought their A-game. 5 delightful stars.
Russell “Chip” Cornish plays hockey. He also happens to be on the autism spectrum. But autism is not a liability. “The ice would turn out to be the one place in which my brain ran cleanly without my having to argue with it.” He finds “Hockey, specifically, rewarded the way my brain worked rather than asking it to work differently”.
Dane Rourke is a 3rd generation firefighter. He knows he can’t get involved with someone he rescued. Worries about trauma bonding are real.
And yet.
Chip, who has a wonderful assistance dog, Sable, and Dane have the kind of simmering slow-burn romance that is a joy to read. Dane accepts Chip 100% and just seems to understand him in a bone-deep level. Their connection is emotionally rewarding to the reader.
Side characters, like firefighter Courtney Pearce, and the dear Rabbi also enliven the text. Scott and Locey brought their A-game. 5 delightful stars.
July 8, 2026
What a sweet, slow burn romance this is. Firefighter Dane is an absolute dream, and his falling for Chip had me swooning all over the place. The second he rescues autustic ice hockey player Chip, he becomes so patient, and also so smitten. He never, ever pressures Chip into giving more than he’s ready for. He just learns Chip’s routines, and respects his boundaries. He creates an incredibly safe space where they can get to know one another, and where Chip can learn to trust him. I loved how he went out of his way to allow Chip to move at his own pace, completely pressure free.
Chip is simply amazing! He has to be one of my favourite RJ/VL characters so far. I love how the authors make his autism look like his superpower, especially while he's playing hockey. He's absolutely brilliant at maths, (I stand in total awe of him!), and with that focus, he uses his knowledge to totally block out everything, and just shreds the opponents' defences. It’s amazing to read how he works things out, and way way over my head, total mathematical doofus here, d'oh!
Honestly, it’s great how the hockey guys just treat Chip like one of the boys. They don't baby him at all, his autism isn't treated as a burden, and they just accept him for who he is. Plus, off the ice, they're super respectful of his boundaries. They back him up 100% because they value him for exactly who he is and treat him like a proper mate.
Of course Sable, Chip’s assistance dog, is always around, keeping things grounded for Chip when the world gets a bit overbearing. When she instantly gives Dane her stamp of approval, it's so sweet, I nigh on melted. The whole setup gives off a real found family vibe, with the hockey lads and firehouse crew all supporting Chip and cheering him on every step of the way.
RJ and VL did a smashing job handling Chip’s autism, they wrote with respect, making him a truly well rounded character. They highlighted his strengths beautifully without letting his autism completely define him. I just loved the whole story, a totally heartwarming romance.
Chip is simply amazing! He has to be one of my favourite RJ/VL characters so far. I love how the authors make his autism look like his superpower, especially while he's playing hockey. He's absolutely brilliant at maths, (I stand in total awe of him!), and with that focus, he uses his knowledge to totally block out everything, and just shreds the opponents' defences. It’s amazing to read how he works things out, and way way over my head, total mathematical doofus here, d'oh!
Honestly, it’s great how the hockey guys just treat Chip like one of the boys. They don't baby him at all, his autism isn't treated as a burden, and they just accept him for who he is. Plus, off the ice, they're super respectful of his boundaries. They back him up 100% because they value him for exactly who he is and treat him like a proper mate.
Of course Sable, Chip’s assistance dog, is always around, keeping things grounded for Chip when the world gets a bit overbearing. When she instantly gives Dane her stamp of approval, it's so sweet, I nigh on melted. The whole setup gives off a real found family vibe, with the hockey lads and firehouse crew all supporting Chip and cheering him on every step of the way.
RJ and VL did a smashing job handling Chip’s autism, they wrote with respect, making him a truly well rounded character. They highlighted his strengths beautifully without letting his autism completely define him. I just loved the whole story, a totally heartwarming romance.
July 6, 2026
Spectrum and Smoke is book two in the Rochester Copperheads series by Scott and Locey. You really can’t beat a book written by this duo for excitement on the ice. As with most of their books, heavy topics are addressed; however, this book was not really angsty at all.
This book is about Chip, a highly functioning autistic hockey player, and Dane, a seasoned firefighter. The topic of Chip’s status is portrayed respectfully, with the issues he faces unique to him. None of this was specifically individualized, but when put together as a whole, he is his own person with very few limitations.
Dane comes from a family of servicemen, with his father being a highly respected firefighter who perished while performing this duty. To be with Chip, Dane knows he may face scrutiny from his boss and other higher-ups. The two met during a traumatic event, and the question of trauma bonding is discussed throughout the book.
Dane’s intuition proves to be just what Chip requires, and he allows Chip the time and space he needs. Both men end up recovering from one thing or another, bringing some of Chip’s coping mechanisms to the fore.
The secondary characters are engaging and bring depth to the story. From family to friends, these characters enrich both MCs’ worlds. And although this is not one of my favorites from this writing duo, it was well-written and entertaining. The topics discussed do not cause a lot of emotional drama, and the book is kept fairly light.
If you’ve read book one of the Rochester Copperheads, Paint & Penalties (formerly Rough Draft, part of the The Games We Play series), I recommend reading this book. If you enjoy books including neurodivergent MCs, I would also recommend this book. It was an enjoyable read.
Happy Reading!
~𝓘 𝓻𝓮𝓬𝓮𝓲𝓿𝓮𝓭 𝓪𝓷 𝓐𝓡𝓒 𝓸𝓯 𝓽𝓱𝓲𝓼 𝓫𝓸𝓸𝓴 𝓪𝓷𝓭 𝓘 𝓪𝓶 𝓵𝓮𝓪𝓿𝓲𝓷𝓰 𝓶𝔂 𝓱𝓸𝓷𝓮𝓼𝓽 𝓻𝓮𝓿𝓲𝓮𝔀.~
This book is about Chip, a highly functioning autistic hockey player, and Dane, a seasoned firefighter. The topic of Chip’s status is portrayed respectfully, with the issues he faces unique to him. None of this was specifically individualized, but when put together as a whole, he is his own person with very few limitations.
Dane comes from a family of servicemen, with his father being a highly respected firefighter who perished while performing this duty. To be with Chip, Dane knows he may face scrutiny from his boss and other higher-ups. The two met during a traumatic event, and the question of trauma bonding is discussed throughout the book.
Dane’s intuition proves to be just what Chip requires, and he allows Chip the time and space he needs. Both men end up recovering from one thing or another, bringing some of Chip’s coping mechanisms to the fore.
The secondary characters are engaging and bring depth to the story. From family to friends, these characters enrich both MCs’ worlds. And although this is not one of my favorites from this writing duo, it was well-written and entertaining. The topics discussed do not cause a lot of emotional drama, and the book is kept fairly light.
If you’ve read book one of the Rochester Copperheads, Paint & Penalties (formerly Rough Draft, part of the The Games We Play series), I recommend reading this book. If you enjoy books including neurodivergent MCs, I would also recommend this book. It was an enjoyable read.
Happy Reading!
~𝓘 𝓻𝓮𝓬𝓮𝓲𝓿𝓮𝓭 𝓪𝓷 𝓐𝓡𝓒 𝓸𝓯 𝓽𝓱𝓲𝓼 𝓫𝓸𝓸𝓴 𝓪𝓷𝓭 𝓘 𝓪𝓶 𝓵𝓮𝓪𝓿𝓲𝓷𝓰 𝓶𝔂 𝓱𝓸𝓷𝓮𝓼𝓽 𝓻𝓮𝓿𝓲𝓮𝔀.~
June 29, 2026
Chip, a routine‑driven hockey player who relies on his assistance dog, is shaken when a fire destroys his gym — and even more by Dane Rourke, the firefighter who rescues him. Dane never meant to get attached, but cupcakes, hockey games, and quiet evenings turn their unexpected connection into a slow burn neither of them planned for — or knows how to stop.
I loved how thoughtfully this story portrayed Chip — the authors gave him such strength, clarity, and sweetness without ever reducing him to his neurodivergence. He was capable, adorable, and deeply human. And Dane’s care and respect for him made their connection feel genuinely tender; every interaction showed how much Dane valued Chip’s boundaries and needs. The danger and drama — both on the ice and off — were written with real sensitivity, making the tension easy to feel and understand without ever overwhelming the emotional heart of the story. A beautifully crafted romance full of care, respect, and heartfelt moments. This was an MM story with mature content.
I loved how thoughtfully this story portrayed Chip — the authors gave him such strength, clarity, and sweetness without ever reducing him to his neurodivergence. He was capable, adorable, and deeply human. And Dane’s care and respect for him made their connection feel genuinely tender; every interaction showed how much Dane valued Chip’s boundaries and needs. The danger and drama — both on the ice and off — were written with real sensitivity, making the tension easy to feel and understand without ever overwhelming the emotional heart of the story. A beautifully crafted romance full of care, respect, and heartfelt moments. This was an MM story with mature content.
June 24, 2026
Chip likes his routines. Whether it’s on the ice playing hockey or just in everyday life. And while being autistic is easier to manage in some parts of his life, doesn’t mean it is perfect. Sometimes it takes him a bit to read people and having his service dog, Sable, is great when his anxiety is up. But making connections with people can be a little harder at times. Trusting someone enough to let them in and have a relationship. But really, he just needed to find the right person. The moment Chip meets Dane, he knows something is different. And it’s not because Dane is a firefighter who saved him. It’s so much more. Chip wants to get to know Dane. Dane knows that getting involved with someone he rescued could be disastrous for himself and for his career. But the more they see one another, the more they take the time to get to know one another, the more Dane realizes that Chip is someone he could fall for. Hard. Easily. Chip will be worth any repercussions if those at his work disagree, but Dane can’t let Chip go without a fight. These two were super sweet! I loved getting to know them and watching their relationship blossom. They just fit together so well and it was clear how much they liked one another from the start. I’m really liking this series so far and I can’t wait for the next one!
June 29, 2026
Chip and Dane …
Our hockey player, Chip, who is Autistic and Dane, a Firefighter, find there is an attraction between them.
Dane rescues a trapped Chip when a fire
at his gym engulfs him.
Weeks later, Chip brings treats fo the whole firehouse.
We get to watch the slow burn relationship grow and the two men truly understand each other. We see the hockey games, the fires Dane’s teammates respond to, plus the injuries and recoveries.
Dane is concerned because it is an unwritten rule that frowns on rescued victims dating their rescuer.
Their lives are so happy as they get deeper emotions. Our authors handle Chip’s autism beautifully and we can understand how he sees the world.
This wonderful story will give you knowledge and insight to brighten your mind. I loved these two books.
ENJOY !
=====
Our hockey player, Chip, who is Autistic and Dane, a Firefighter, find there is an attraction between them.
Dane rescues a trapped Chip when a fire
at his gym engulfs him.
Weeks later, Chip brings treats fo the whole firehouse.
We get to watch the slow burn relationship grow and the two men truly understand each other. We see the hockey games, the fires Dane’s teammates respond to, plus the injuries and recoveries.
Dane is concerned because it is an unwritten rule that frowns on rescued victims dating their rescuer.
Their lives are so happy as they get deeper emotions. Our authors handle Chip’s autism beautifully and we can understand how he sees the world.
This wonderful story will give you knowledge and insight to brighten your mind. I loved these two books.
ENJOY !
=====
July 3, 2026
I liked the protagonists pretty well. The assistance dog did steal several scenes, as the author said.
June 28, 2026
I really enjoyed it. As an autistic person, I always feel confident when VL and RJ do an autistic character, because so far and without exception it's a very respectful and full bodied portrayal of the many ways autistic people exist. No two characters they've made are the same, and none of them are a collection of stereotypes in a trench coat but a well built character who has autism as part of their build up. Chip is by no means an exception to this.
June 23, 2026
Hockey player/firefighter, neurodivergent rep
Chip is a hockey player and he just happens to be neurodivergent. His assistive dog Sable truly helps make his world better.
His life is routines and reliability.
People are hard to understand because they don't think or act like him so he keeps them at arms length.
Dane is a firefighter and it's the family business.
He rescues Chip from a fire at his gym and both immediately make a connection.
I really enjoyed the slow burn aspect of their romance, it was realistic for Chip and showed Dane being patient.
Sable is the best girl ever and the neurodivergent rep was absolutely realistic, I'm saying this as someone on the spectrum with two children on the spectrum as well.
Chip is a hockey player and he just happens to be neurodivergent. His assistive dog Sable truly helps make his world better.
His life is routines and reliability.
People are hard to understand because they don't think or act like him so he keeps them at arms length.
Dane is a firefighter and it's the family business.
He rescues Chip from a fire at his gym and both immediately make a connection.
I really enjoyed the slow burn aspect of their romance, it was realistic for Chip and showed Dane being patient.
Sable is the best girl ever and the neurodivergent rep was absolutely realistic, I'm saying this as someone on the spectrum with two children on the spectrum as well.
June 24, 2026
This is the second book in the new Rochester Copperheads series, and is Chip and Dane’s story. Chip is a forward for the Copperheads team, and neurodivergent, while Dane, is the firefighter who rescues him from a fire.
The author’s have done a wonderful job of depicting the character of Chip, both in how he deals with his life, and how smart he is. Dane is perfect for him, he is so kind, and his acceptance of Chips’ quirks and limitations is lovely. This is a beautiful, slow-burn tale that’s sweet, emotional, a little angsty and has great autism representation. As usual, when these two terrific authors collaborate, they have given us another great read, and I highly recommend it.
The author’s have done a wonderful job of depicting the character of Chip, both in how he deals with his life, and how smart he is. Dane is perfect for him, he is so kind, and his acceptance of Chips’ quirks and limitations is lovely. This is a beautiful, slow-burn tale that’s sweet, emotional, a little angsty and has great autism representation. As usual, when these two terrific authors collaborate, they have given us another great read, and I highly recommend it.
June 28, 2026
sooooo good
Omg, I loved this story so much. Russel ‘Chip’ is hockey. It makes his world work for him. I love how his team respects him, his talent. Dane is the firefighter who rescued him. His acceptance is real and loving. My heart melted reading this story ❤️
Omg, I loved this story so much. Russel ‘Chip’ is hockey. It makes his world work for him. I love how his team respects him, his talent. Dane is the firefighter who rescued him. His acceptance is real and loving. My heart melted reading this story ❤️
June 24, 2026
Another amazing story in the series. Chip Cornish (Russell) is a hockey player with the Rochester Copperheads and part owns a gym with his brother. He is also on the Autism spectrum with an assistance dog Sable, who is lovely. He meets Dane Rourke, a fire fighter, when there is a fire at the gym. This story is so good I read it in one day. I won't spoil any of the story but it is very good with a HEA. Cannot wait for the next one with Taft and Kyle.
June 23, 2026
What a great 2nd installment.
I love Chip and Dane as a couple. Theres something so sweet about their relationship, the way they take care of each other.
I feel the authors really understood how to write a character on the autism spectrum, and did so with care and attention to detail.
This was a nice easy read with charcters that pull you into the story and take you along for the ride.
Highly recommend
I love Chip and Dane as a couple. Theres something so sweet about their relationship, the way they take care of each other.
I feel the authors really understood how to write a character on the autism spectrum, and did so with care and attention to detail.
This was a nice easy read with charcters that pull you into the story and take you along for the ride.
Highly recommend
June 26, 2026
What a sweet story about a firefighter and a hockey player! If you love a slow burn, then you should definitely read this.
June 24, 2026
43 steps
Chip and Dane were so freaking wonderful together. There wasn't much angst, but there was a boatload of feels. It was an absolutely fantastic read.
Chip and Dane were so freaking wonderful together. There wasn't much angst, but there was a boatload of feels. It was an absolutely fantastic read.
June 23, 2026
Enjoyed this alot, I really like Chip and Dane. Dane just gets Chip and doesn't try to push or "fix" him, he's just there. I also love Chip and Matt's relationship!
Did Not Finish
July 10, 2026DNF 36% - I'm just bored; nothing's happening and there's no tension - they mostly just seem to like the colour of each other's eyes.
Also, how and why does Chip co-own the gym? He doesn't seem to do anything to contribute? We're currently several weeks out from the fire, and there's been no mention of it having impacted anything, despite it being dramatic enough to have made the ceiling fall in. No idea how a fire got to that point without Chip noticing, mind you. Do they not have fire alarms? Was it not getting a bit warm and smoky?
Also, how and why does Chip co-own the gym? He doesn't seem to do anything to contribute? We're currently several weeks out from the fire, and there's been no mention of it having impacted anything, despite it being dramatic enough to have made the ceiling fall in. No idea how a fire got to that point without Chip noticing, mind you. Do they not have fire alarms? Was it not getting a bit warm and smoky?
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received a free copy. This review is submitted voluntarily.
Chip is a forward with the Rochester Copperheads and is o the autistic spectrum. While working out alone in the gym he co-owns with his brother, a fire breaks out and he is trapped under a treadmill. Dane, a member of the Rochester Fire Department, is a member of the squad called to deal with the blaze and rescues Chip. About 10 days later, he shows up at the fire house with cupcakes and game tickets for everyone. Characteristically, he has researched every member to determine what their references might be. Chip and Dane start dating, despite realizing that relationships between firefighters and persons they rescued might cross professional boundaries. Shortly after Chip gets back after his knee recovers from the injury incurred in the fire, Dane is hurt in an explosion.
In a previous job, I dealt with diagnoses of autism among other things, and the mannerisms the Chip displays are very typical of someone on the spectrum. His repetition of various odds of something happening and his ability to calculate the angles on the ice is the kind of things one can expect. That said, I agree with the statement at the beginning of the book that says, “if you’ve met one person with autism, you’ve met one person with autism”. Chip’s description of autism late in the book is spot on and shows that any attempt to categorize the abilities of autistic persons is a difficult proposition. The plot of the book is quite straightforward with few detours. Both MCs are sweet and Dane’s finding Chip’s quirks adorable shows how loving he is. His seeking permission before even touching Chip shows his empathy and acceptance. There is a substantial number of secondary characters and all but support the relationship. The exception, at least in the early stages, is Dane’s colleague Tim who is homophobic. One sweet side story involves the courtship of Dane’s mother by the rabbi Eli living in the other half of Dane’s house.
This book is not only a great read, but it also gives some insight into neurodivergent individuals.
Chip is a forward with the Rochester Copperheads and is o the autistic spectrum. While working out alone in the gym he co-owns with his brother, a fire breaks out and he is trapped under a treadmill. Dane, a member of the Rochester Fire Department, is a member of the squad called to deal with the blaze and rescues Chip. About 10 days later, he shows up at the fire house with cupcakes and game tickets for everyone. Characteristically, he has researched every member to determine what their references might be. Chip and Dane start dating, despite realizing that relationships between firefighters and persons they rescued might cross professional boundaries. Shortly after Chip gets back after his knee recovers from the injury incurred in the fire, Dane is hurt in an explosion.
In a previous job, I dealt with diagnoses of autism among other things, and the mannerisms the Chip displays are very typical of someone on the spectrum. His repetition of various odds of something happening and his ability to calculate the angles on the ice is the kind of things one can expect. That said, I agree with the statement at the beginning of the book that says, “if you’ve met one person with autism, you’ve met one person with autism”. Chip’s description of autism late in the book is spot on and shows that any attempt to categorize the abilities of autistic persons is a difficult proposition. The plot of the book is quite straightforward with few detours. Both MCs are sweet and Dane’s finding Chip’s quirks adorable shows how loving he is. His seeking permission before even touching Chip shows his empathy and acceptance. There is a substantial number of secondary characters and all but support the relationship. The exception, at least in the early stages, is Dane’s colleague Tim who is homophobic. One sweet side story involves the courtship of Dane’s mother by the rabbi Eli living in the other half of Dane’s house.
This book is not only a great read, but it also gives some insight into neurodivergent individuals.
July 8, 2026
Spectrum and Smoke is the second book in the ‘Rochester Copperheads’ series. It stars Russell ‘Chip’ Cornish, a hockey player, and Dane Rourke, firefighter. This is told in first person from Chip and Dane’s pov.
I read the first book in this series and was eager to read more about the hockey players who were all part of an art class, which was mentioned in Book One. The blurb does a good job of explaining the plot but I’ll add a bit more.
There isn’t really any conflict in this plot. The one conflict that hovers over Dane and Chip’s relationship, is the fact that Dane is involved with Chip who he rescued from a fire, which is frowned upon. Later both men must appear before a review board to determine if Dane has used his position as a ‘savior’ to manipulate Chip into a relationship.
This is a very slow burn story. It focuses mainly on the romance and experiencing how Chip navigates his first relationship. The hockey is only a brief mention to move the relationship along. The authors did a great job of creating Chip who has autism. We see into the workings of his mind and how he mentally interprets and solves each issue that he’s faced with. He has a service dog that helps him when he has panic attacks or starts to spiral. Chip knows what he wants and will go for it. And he wants Dane. It’s hinted at that Chip is a virgin. Chip just mentions it as a matter-of-fact situation without embarrassment unlike a lot of romance books. Chip’s autism makes his thinking easy to follow along because it’s step-by-step thinking.
Dane lets Chip decide how fast he wants the relationship to go. Dane is a respected firefighter and kind person. Just an all-around nice guy. The authors did a good job of creating distinct characters with unique voices.
Spectrum and Smoke is a slow-burn, without much conflict. This leads to the story having a slow pace. Dane and Chip are nice characters. I give this book, 4 Stars
I received an ARC from the authors. This is my honest and unbiased opinion.
I read the first book in this series and was eager to read more about the hockey players who were all part of an art class, which was mentioned in Book One. The blurb does a good job of explaining the plot but I’ll add a bit more.
There isn’t really any conflict in this plot. The one conflict that hovers over Dane and Chip’s relationship, is the fact that Dane is involved with Chip who he rescued from a fire, which is frowned upon. Later both men must appear before a review board to determine if Dane has used his position as a ‘savior’ to manipulate Chip into a relationship.
This is a very slow burn story. It focuses mainly on the romance and experiencing how Chip navigates his first relationship. The hockey is only a brief mention to move the relationship along. The authors did a great job of creating Chip who has autism. We see into the workings of his mind and how he mentally interprets and solves each issue that he’s faced with. He has a service dog that helps him when he has panic attacks or starts to spiral. Chip knows what he wants and will go for it. And he wants Dane. It’s hinted at that Chip is a virgin. Chip just mentions it as a matter-of-fact situation without embarrassment unlike a lot of romance books. Chip’s autism makes his thinking easy to follow along because it’s step-by-step thinking.
Dane lets Chip decide how fast he wants the relationship to go. Dane is a respected firefighter and kind person. Just an all-around nice guy. The authors did a good job of creating distinct characters with unique voices.
Spectrum and Smoke is a slow-burn, without much conflict. This leads to the story having a slow pace. Dane and Chip are nice characters. I give this book, 4 Stars
I received an ARC from the authors. This is my honest and unbiased opinion.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was such a beautifully written story.
The care in which the authors take in their writing of Chip, his close relationships with friends and family as well as with Dane was amazing to read.
Chip is a very smart, Autistic man and an AHL hockey player. The fact that he is extremely attractive with a wicked sense of humor is a bonus. His service dog Sable is an amazing addition to his life not only in the ways she helps him but in her affection towards him too.
Dane is also extremely attractive, caring, smart firefighter. His friendships and family are extremely important to him. Sable thinks of him as hers too.
When he meets Chip, the care he gives and his acceptance and understanding in regard to Chips boundaries was truly inspiring.
When they meet it's literally hot and smokey.
They move slowly in their relationship but that is what makes it so beautiful. The care, kindness, consideration and acceptance of each other is what makes this a truly great story.
I won't give any plot points away that the authors haven't in their blurb.
I enjoyed this so much!
It only took me a few hours to read; I had no choice but to keep going because I had to know what happened next!
Are there sexy times? Of course!
Are there tense moments? yes
There are wonderful romantic moments, heat, teasing, laughter, moments of stress, facts that I didn't even know I needed and quite a bit of cheering.
So, enjoy this amazing story.
Here's to the next one in this series.
Crossing fingers for whose I hope it might be.
The care in which the authors take in their writing of Chip, his close relationships with friends and family as well as with Dane was amazing to read.
Chip is a very smart, Autistic man and an AHL hockey player. The fact that he is extremely attractive with a wicked sense of humor is a bonus. His service dog Sable is an amazing addition to his life not only in the ways she helps him but in her affection towards him too.
Dane is also extremely attractive, caring, smart firefighter. His friendships and family are extremely important to him. Sable thinks of him as hers too.
When he meets Chip, the care he gives and his acceptance and understanding in regard to Chips boundaries was truly inspiring.
When they meet it's literally hot and smokey.
They move slowly in their relationship but that is what makes it so beautiful. The care, kindness, consideration and acceptance of each other is what makes this a truly great story.
I won't give any plot points away that the authors haven't in their blurb.
I enjoyed this so much!
It only took me a few hours to read; I had no choice but to keep going because I had to know what happened next!
Are there sexy times? Of course!
Are there tense moments? yes
There are wonderful romantic moments, heat, teasing, laughter, moments of stress, facts that I didn't even know I needed and quite a bit of cheering.
So, enjoy this amazing story.
Here's to the next one in this series.
Crossing fingers for whose I hope it might be.
June 24, 2026
★彡 5 STARS 彡★
I loved this book so much! I’ve read all of the hockey books that RJ and V.L. have co-authored and I loved them. Some were long enough ago that I don’t remember all the details but I do remember Ten and Jared from their first series (Harrisburg Railers) and they were my favorite couple. Now, Chip and Dane may have just tied them for first place. 😊
This is not hockey lite so MM readers who are fans of the sport should really enjoy that part of it. I don’t follow any sport but I love reading MM romances that feature different ones. Spectrum and Smoke has a lot of hockey stuff in it that I didn’t always understand but that didn’t matter one bit because the romantic relationship between Chip and Dane was the focus and it evolved slowly and beautifully.
Chip is on the autism spectrum and Dane’s immediate acceptance of him and his way of looking at things captured my heart. Reading books like these, with neuro-divergent characters, has helped me become a more understanding and better person. The introduction to the book, A Note from RJ & Vicki, explains that autism is a spectrum and also explains a lot about how they wrote Chip so I hope everyone reads it as well as the story itself.
As is almost always the case with any book I read written by these two, my emotions ran the gamut from smiling to tears when the story moved me deeply. The back of the book has a teaser for the next one in the series and I hope we don’t have to wait too long for it.
I loved this book so much! I’ve read all of the hockey books that RJ and V.L. have co-authored and I loved them. Some were long enough ago that I don’t remember all the details but I do remember Ten and Jared from their first series (Harrisburg Railers) and they were my favorite couple. Now, Chip and Dane may have just tied them for first place. 😊
This is not hockey lite so MM readers who are fans of the sport should really enjoy that part of it. I don’t follow any sport but I love reading MM romances that feature different ones. Spectrum and Smoke has a lot of hockey stuff in it that I didn’t always understand but that didn’t matter one bit because the romantic relationship between Chip and Dane was the focus and it evolved slowly and beautifully.
Chip is on the autism spectrum and Dane’s immediate acceptance of him and his way of looking at things captured my heart. Reading books like these, with neuro-divergent characters, has helped me become a more understanding and better person. The introduction to the book, A Note from RJ & Vicki, explains that autism is a spectrum and also explains a lot about how they wrote Chip so I hope everyone reads it as well as the story itself.
As is almost always the case with any book I read written by these two, my emotions ran the gamut from smiling to tears when the story moved me deeply. The back of the book has a teaser for the next one in the series and I hope we don’t have to wait too long for it.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I fell in love with Chip in Paint & Penalties, the first of the Copperheads book. This one can theoretically read on it's own but you will miss out on plenty of small titbits about Chip's team.
This story is more slow burn but still with plenty of heat when these two move from kissing to more.
You have Chip, a man who catalogues life and his environment into controllable structure so it makes sense to him. In Dane he finds a man who takes him with all his ticks, with his fountain of knowledge and Dane embraces and adores him. Dane gives him what Chip needs without hesitation, no "solving" or bending to fit Dane.
Dane is an emotional man, he loves and cares deeply and when he rescues Chip, a bond is formed which is firm and holds, regardless what is thrown into their way.
It is a low angst story, it shows how a chance meeting can enrich a life and bring out the best of a person.
About Chip - he is autistic and the authors are brilliant in portraying him. In the foreword they state is correctly: “if you’ve met one person with autism, you’ve met one person with autism”. Chip is very different from my autistic child and this book is very good in showing that his autism is just that - his, not an average, not a stereotype.
I love that the book shows what it means to be autistic without lecturing or making it the main focus of the book, the main focus is an evolving love story between two man and just that.
This story is more slow burn but still with plenty of heat when these two move from kissing to more.
You have Chip, a man who catalogues life and his environment into controllable structure so it makes sense to him. In Dane he finds a man who takes him with all his ticks, with his fountain of knowledge and Dane embraces and adores him. Dane gives him what Chip needs without hesitation, no "solving" or bending to fit Dane.
Dane is an emotional man, he loves and cares deeply and when he rescues Chip, a bond is formed which is firm and holds, regardless what is thrown into their way.
It is a low angst story, it shows how a chance meeting can enrich a life and bring out the best of a person.
About Chip - he is autistic and the authors are brilliant in portraying him. In the foreword they state is correctly: “if you’ve met one person with autism, you’ve met one person with autism”. Chip is very different from my autistic child and this book is very good in showing that his autism is just that - his, not an average, not a stereotype.
I love that the book shows what it means to be autistic without lecturing or making it the main focus of the book, the main focus is an evolving love story between two man and just that.
July 5, 2026
I absolutely loved this book.
Chip and Dane completely stole my heart. Chip is a wonderfully written neurodivergent character whose routines, perspective, and quiet strength felt authentic and believable. His assistance dog, Sable, deserves a special mention because she completely stole every scene she appeared in.
Dane was equally wonderful. He was patient, caring, supportive, and respected Chip for exactly who he was without ever trying to change him or treating him differently. Their relationship developed slowly and naturally, making every step of their journey feel earned.
Like the first book, I appreciated the absence of unnecessary relationship drama. The story focused instead on trust, communication, healing, and genuine emotional connection.
This series continues to shine with its lovable characters, found family, and heartfelt storytelling. I can't wait to read the next Rochester Copperheads book.
Highly recommended for readers who enjoy slow-burn MM romance, neurodivergent representation, healthy relationships, hockey, and found family.
Chip and Dane completely stole my heart. Chip is a wonderfully written neurodivergent character whose routines, perspective, and quiet strength felt authentic and believable. His assistance dog, Sable, deserves a special mention because she completely stole every scene she appeared in.
Dane was equally wonderful. He was patient, caring, supportive, and respected Chip for exactly who he was without ever trying to change him or treating him differently. Their relationship developed slowly and naturally, making every step of their journey feel earned.
Like the first book, I appreciated the absence of unnecessary relationship drama. The story focused instead on trust, communication, healing, and genuine emotional connection.
This series continues to shine with its lovable characters, found family, and heartfelt storytelling. I can't wait to read the next Rochester Copperheads book.
Highly recommended for readers who enjoy slow-burn MM romance, neurodivergent representation, healthy relationships, hockey, and found family.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Second in series (Rochester Copperheads), but can be read as a standalone. Opposites attract. Neurodivergent representation. Found family. Slow burn. Dual POV.
Chip is a professional hockey player that gets rescued from a fire by the kindhearted firefighter Dane and sparks fly. As Chip and Dane carefully begin a relationship, the time they spend together getting to know each other is really a sweet love story, and I enjoyed it immensely.
Dane is a special kind of respectful and thoughtful character and embraces all of Chip’s honest and earnest communication and appreciates every moment they spend together. I adored both Chip and Dane, they are both likable, caring, and so good with each other and are respectful in every interaction they have. There is spice, supportive family and friends, and a swoony kind of love that is so much fun to read. Chip holds a special place in my heart as an unforgettable character. 4.5 rounded up
Chip is a professional hockey player that gets rescued from a fire by the kindhearted firefighter Dane and sparks fly. As Chip and Dane carefully begin a relationship, the time they spend together getting to know each other is really a sweet love story, and I enjoyed it immensely.
Dane is a special kind of respectful and thoughtful character and embraces all of Chip’s honest and earnest communication and appreciates every moment they spend together. I adored both Chip and Dane, they are both likable, caring, and so good with each other and are respectful in every interaction they have. There is spice, supportive family and friends, and a swoony kind of love that is so much fun to read. Chip holds a special place in my heart as an unforgettable character. 4.5 rounded up
July 29, 2026
Chip & Dane
Chip was unapologetically himself and self aware. Dane was sweet. And together they made a perfect couple. I loved the bond they formed and the way they supported each other. Chips decision to bring cupcakes to the firehouse prompted Dane to invite him to dinner with the Rabbi and his mom and from there, they began to forge the relationship. Not without complications due to Dane’s job but the two handled it together and Chip stood up for his man as only he could. Looking forward to the rest of the series.
Chip was unapologetically himself and self aware. Dane was sweet. And together they made a perfect couple. I loved the bond they formed and the way they supported each other. Chips decision to bring cupcakes to the firehouse prompted Dane to invite him to dinner with the Rabbi and his mom and from there, they began to forge the relationship. Not without complications due to Dane’s job but the two handled it together and Chip stood up for his man as only he could. Looking forward to the rest of the series.
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