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Hold Me Firefighter: A Steamy Enemies to Lovers Small Town Firefighter Romance
One reckless night might be their undoing.
Hunter doesn't do attachment. As the station's training officer, the job comes first. He's never had a problem getting women in his bed.
Ashley was supposed to be a one-night stand he'd never see again, even though he wanted to. Instead, she shows up at his firehouse the next morning with a badge, a clipboard, and the power to tear apart everything he's built.
She's the enemy. He should keep his distance.
But when she needs somewhere to stay, he can't help but offer her his home.
Now the man who swore he'd never let anyone in can't stop watching her, protecting her, wanting her. And Ashley's about to learn what it feels like to be the one thing a fearless firefighter is terrified of losing.
A steamy small-town, enemies-to-lovers firefighter romance with forced proximity, a hero who falls first (and hard), and a guaranteed HEA.
Fair in Ironridge the firefighters are gorgeous, the emergencies are constant, and romance is inevitable.
Hunter doesn't do attachment. As the station's training officer, the job comes first. He's never had a problem getting women in his bed.
Ashley was supposed to be a one-night stand he'd never see again, even though he wanted to. Instead, she shows up at his firehouse the next morning with a badge, a clipboard, and the power to tear apart everything he's built.
She's the enemy. He should keep his distance.
But when she needs somewhere to stay, he can't help but offer her his home.
Now the man who swore he'd never let anyone in can't stop watching her, protecting her, wanting her. And Ashley's about to learn what it feels like to be the one thing a fearless firefighter is terrified of losing.
A steamy small-town, enemies-to-lovers firefighter romance with forced proximity, a hero who falls first (and hard), and a guaranteed HEA.
Fair in Ironridge the firefighters are gorgeous, the emergencies are constant, and romance is inevitable.
147 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 8, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
October 11, 2026
Hunter and Ashley meet at a bar and end up having a one night stand. Hunter isn't looking for a relationship, while Ashley decides to let loose for a night. Everything seems to be going great until they find out that Ashley is in town to observe and report on the training at the fire station where Hunter works as a trainer and firefighter.
This was a quick and easy read that I flew through. With only 15 chapters, though, I felt like the story could've used a little more room to breathe. Hunter and Ashley's romance felt a bit rushed, and I would've liked to see their relationship develop a little more.
I also would've liked to see more of the side characters, as well as some of the other characters who made brief appearances and then never showed up again. I felt like some of those appearances could've been given a little more purpose.
Ashley's main conflict revolves around Rob's report and the fact that he's her boss, so I was expecting that storyline to have a bigger payoff. Instead, everything gets resolved so quickly that it almost feels like the whole issue is brushed aside.
Overall, I enjoyed it, but it's not a book that's going to stick with me for long. A fun, easy read, but I just wish it had a little more depth.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This was a quick and easy read that I flew through. With only 15 chapters, though, I felt like the story could've used a little more room to breathe. Hunter and Ashley's romance felt a bit rushed, and I would've liked to see their relationship develop a little more.
I also would've liked to see more of the side characters, as well as some of the other characters who made brief appearances and then never showed up again. I felt like some of those appearances could've been given a little more purpose.
Ashley's main conflict revolves around Rob's report and the fact that he's her boss, so I was expecting that storyline to have a bigger payoff. Instead, everything gets resolved so quickly that it almost feels like the whole issue is brushed aside.
Overall, I enjoyed it, but it's not a book that's going to stick with me for long. A fun, easy read, but I just wish it had a little more depth.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 12, 2026
Hunter and Ashley . . .
Firefighters do encounter a variety of experiences, but the adventure with 81-year-old Mrs. Delaney's two cats being rescued goes beyond heroism. The first cat, Gordon, was cooperative and purred in Hunter's jacket all the way down the 40 foot tall oak. The second cat, Norton, went into mountain lion mode, retreated to Hunter's helmet and used his sharp claws to leave streams of blood running down his neck. The gathered crowd cheered (not sure if it was for the cat or Hunter). That evening at the bar, the Beck pulled out his phone to provide video proof of the rescue... or the real victim who shed blood for the job. The chief offers $50 if he goes on stage for karaoke and his best friend Beck says he won't put the photo of the cat rescue on the Ironridge Firefighter’s community page if Hunter sings just one song. Just as he is about to sing, a breathtaking woman walks in and he is speechless! He quickly catches up but keeps watching the woman, even feeling jealous when she smiles at the bartender. When she turns and looks at him, he is speechless (again). He walks over to talk to her and Ashley introduces herself. He already senses she is interested in him, so he kisses her. (I wonder if "inflated ego" will be one of the attributes she puts on the report about him?) She leads him to a supply closet and already has a key to it that she swiped off the bar, anticipating she might need it (wow, I guess that "inflated ego" of Hunter's just took second place to a stranger stealing a bar key to seduce the karaoke singer in the closet).
As the station's training officer, Hunter puts his job comes first. He usually doesn't do more than a one-night-stand with a woman, but he can't stop thinking of her. To his surprise, she arrives at the firehouse the next morning. Chief Anthony Samuels introduces her as a Fire Service Training Officer, visiting them to observe training and make sure the station is up to code. She was sent by the state to evaluate them. She has no place to stay, so Hunter invites her to come home with him. He never gets serious over a woman, but it's starting to feel like he may be changing his mind about that. Will he be able to convince her to stay? And how will she handle her ex-boyfriend/current boss Rob who is threatening her not to send him a glowing report about the station; he expects her report will say how sloppy it is -- because the department has already assessed that particular station and her boss Rob's findings are on file with the state. So her findings must exactly align with them -- OR ELSE.
Firefighters do encounter a variety of experiences, but the adventure with 81-year-old Mrs. Delaney's two cats being rescued goes beyond heroism. The first cat, Gordon, was cooperative and purred in Hunter's jacket all the way down the 40 foot tall oak. The second cat, Norton, went into mountain lion mode, retreated to Hunter's helmet and used his sharp claws to leave streams of blood running down his neck. The gathered crowd cheered (not sure if it was for the cat or Hunter). That evening at the bar, the Beck pulled out his phone to provide video proof of the rescue... or the real victim who shed blood for the job. The chief offers $50 if he goes on stage for karaoke and his best friend Beck says he won't put the photo of the cat rescue on the Ironridge Firefighter’s community page if Hunter sings just one song. Just as he is about to sing, a breathtaking woman walks in and he is speechless! He quickly catches up but keeps watching the woman, even feeling jealous when she smiles at the bartender. When she turns and looks at him, he is speechless (again). He walks over to talk to her and Ashley introduces herself. He already senses she is interested in him, so he kisses her. (I wonder if "inflated ego" will be one of the attributes she puts on the report about him?) She leads him to a supply closet and already has a key to it that she swiped off the bar, anticipating she might need it (wow, I guess that "inflated ego" of Hunter's just took second place to a stranger stealing a bar key to seduce the karaoke singer in the closet).
As the station's training officer, Hunter puts his job comes first. He usually doesn't do more than a one-night-stand with a woman, but he can't stop thinking of her. To his surprise, she arrives at the firehouse the next morning. Chief Anthony Samuels introduces her as a Fire Service Training Officer, visiting them to observe training and make sure the station is up to code. She was sent by the state to evaluate them. She has no place to stay, so Hunter invites her to come home with him. He never gets serious over a woman, but it's starting to feel like he may be changing his mind about that. Will he be able to convince her to stay? And how will she handle her ex-boyfriend/current boss Rob who is threatening her not to send him a glowing report about the station; he expects her report will say how sloppy it is -- because the department has already assessed that particular station and her boss Rob's findings are on file with the state. So her findings must exactly align with them -- OR ELSE.
October 10, 2026
I came for the firefighter romance, but I ended up staying for the characters and the emotional journey. Hold Me Firefighter by Callie Embers was such an enjoyable mix of chemistry, tension, humor, and heartfelt moments. Hunter caught my attention right away. He comes across as tough, stubborn, and a little too good at pushing people's buttons, but there is so much more to him beneath that rough exterior. Ashley was equally enjoyable to follow. She is smart, capable, and determined to do her job properly, even when it puts her at odds with the man she cannot seem to stop thinking about. Their first meeting is memorable, and the awkwardness that follows when they discover they have to work together makes the story even more entertaining. I loved the banter and the push and pull between them. But what really gave the romance depth was the way both characters had to face their own struggles, learn to trust themselves, and decide what they were willing to stand up for. I also appreciated that Ashley's professional journey mattered just as much as her romantic one. Her experiences with a difficult past relationship and the pressure surrounding her work felt meaningful, while Hunter's personal history helped explain why he carried so much frustration beneath his confident exterior. The Ironridge community, the firefighter crew, and little Rosy added warmth and personality to the story, too. This book has plenty of heat, but it also has heart. I especially enjoyed the moments when the characters let their guards down and showed the softer sides they usually kept hidden. If you enjoy small town romance, grumpy firefighters, workplace tension, witty banter, and a love story that goes beyond physical attraction, this is definitely worth picking up. I finished it feeling satisfied with the emotional journey and happy to have spent time in Ironridge.
Review of advance copy
This book is definitely a page-turner. We have a stone-hearted Hunter and a traumatized Ashley, who spend one night together only to discover the next morning that they have to work together. To make things even more complicated, they’re on opposite sides because Ashley is auditing Hunter’s job.
Their chemistry is undeniable, but their relationship is filled with complicated circumstances, misunderstandings, and plenty of push and pull.
I’ll admit, I didn’t always like Hunter. He can be incredibly stubborn and rude at times. Ashley is simply doing her job, yet he takes it personally like a child. She has much more self-control and tries to remain as professional as possible despite their history and obvious attraction.
What disappointed me, though, was the ending. It felt too abrupt, especially after all the emotional turmoil caused by their separation. I wish there had been more resolution—more groveling from Hunter, perhaps, or simply more time spent working through their issues. After everything they went through, the ending just didn’t feel substantial enough.
Overall, though, the book was an entertaining read, and the chemistry between Hunter and Ashley definitely kept me turning the pages.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Their chemistry is undeniable, but their relationship is filled with complicated circumstances, misunderstandings, and plenty of push and pull.
I’ll admit, I didn’t always like Hunter. He can be incredibly stubborn and rude at times. Ashley is simply doing her job, yet he takes it personally like a child. She has much more self-control and tries to remain as professional as possible despite their history and obvious attraction.
What disappointed me, though, was the ending. It felt too abrupt, especially after all the emotional turmoil caused by their separation. I wish there had been more resolution—more groveling from Hunter, perhaps, or simply more time spent working through their issues. After everything they went through, the ending just didn’t feel substantial enough.
Overall, though, the book was an entertaining read, and the chemistry between Hunter and Ashley definitely kept me turning the pages.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 18, 2026
Hold Me Firefighter is a fast-paced romance that hooked me right away with its perfect mix of tension, chemistry, and small-town charm. I loved the setup of a one-night stand turning into a professional rivalry overnight. Hunter and Ashley start off on opposite sides, which gives their relationship plenty of sparks before the romance really takes off.
Hunter is the standout here. He swears he doesn't do attachments, but watching him fall first and completely was one of my favorite parts of the book. His protective instincts and growing vulnerability made him easy to root for. Ashley is equally strong, holding her ground even when her feelings start complicating everything.
If I had one small wish, it would be for a little more time exploring Ashley's role and impact on the firehouse beyond the central romance. Still, the story keeps moving and never loses its momentum.
Overall, this is a sweet, steamy firefighter romance with great chemistry, a lovable hero, and enough emotional depth to keep you invested. A strong start to the Firefighters of Ironridge series and a great pick for readers who love enemies-to-lovers stories with plenty of heart.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Hunter is the standout here. He swears he doesn't do attachments, but watching him fall first and completely was one of my favorite parts of the book. His protective instincts and growing vulnerability made him easy to root for. Ashley is equally strong, holding her ground even when her feelings start complicating everything.
If I had one small wish, it would be for a little more time exploring Ashley's role and impact on the firehouse beyond the central romance. Still, the story keeps moving and never loses its momentum.
Overall, this is a sweet, steamy firefighter romance with great chemistry, a lovable hero, and enough emotional depth to keep you invested. A strong start to the Firefighters of Ironridge series and a great pick for readers who love enemies-to-lovers stories with plenty of heart.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 8, 2026
I absolutely loved the irresistible setup of Hold Me Firefighter! Callie Embers takes a fiercely independent training officer, the unexpected woman who can challenge everything he has built, and one very inconvenient shared house, then turns them into a compelling small-town romance filled with tension, tenderness, and heart.
Hunter and Ashley share the kind of chemistry that makes every encounter feel charged, but it is the emotional pull beneath their conflict that truly kept me invested. The forced-proximity premise is handled with energy and warmth, while Hunter’s protective instincts and gradual change make his journey especially satisfying.
Embers writes with confident pacing, vivid character dynamics, and an engaging style that makes Ironridge feel like a place worth revisiting. This is a fun, heartfelt opening to the series, and I enthusiastically recommend it to readers who enjoy small-town romance, a hero who falls first, and a rewarding happily-ever-after.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Hunter and Ashley share the kind of chemistry that makes every encounter feel charged, but it is the emotional pull beneath their conflict that truly kept me invested. The forced-proximity premise is handled with energy and warmth, while Hunter’s protective instincts and gradual change make his journey especially satisfying.
Embers writes with confident pacing, vivid character dynamics, and an engaging style that makes Ironridge feel like a place worth revisiting. This is a fun, heartfelt opening to the series, and I enthusiastically recommend it to readers who enjoy small-town romance, a hero who falls first, and a rewarding happily-ever-after.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 11, 2026
Hold Me Firefighter by Callie Embers is a fun, steamy romance that brings together small-town charm, fiery chemistry, and the kind of tension that kept me turning the pages. One of the best things about this type of romance is the enemies-to-lovers dynamic. The tension, the banter, and the struggle between fighting attraction and admitting feelings made the story entertaining. The firefighter element added an exciting touch, bringing a sense of danger, bravery, and passion to the romance. The small-town setting also adds to the appeal, creating a close-knit atmosphere where emotions can run high and relationships are hard to keep private. Overall, Hold Me Firefighter was a romance with plenty of sparks, emotional tension, and a rugged firefighter at the center.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I absolutely adored this book!! Hunter and Ashley had me hooked from the beginning. Their chemistry is SO good. I ate it up.
Hunter might be one of my favourite firefighter MMCs. Underneath all that stubbornness he’s such a genuinely good man, and I loved seeing Ashley slowly understand why he cares so much about his crew and the way he trains them.
I loved Ashley too. She’s ambitious and stands her ground with Hunter instead of just letting him get away with everything.
And ROSY!!! The puppies!! 😭 Those scenes were ridiculously cute and gave me everything I wanted from a small-town firefighter romance.
The found family at the station was probably one of my favourite parts too. I already need more of this crew (and I am VERY curious about Beck 👀).
Easy five stars ❤️🔥
Hunter might be one of my favourite firefighter MMCs. Underneath all that stubbornness he’s such a genuinely good man, and I loved seeing Ashley slowly understand why he cares so much about his crew and the way he trains them.
I loved Ashley too. She’s ambitious and stands her ground with Hunter instead of just letting him get away with everything.
And ROSY!!! The puppies!! 😭 Those scenes were ridiculously cute and gave me everything I wanted from a small-town firefighter romance.
The found family at the station was probably one of my favourite parts too. I already need more of this crew (and I am VERY curious about Beck 👀).
Easy five stars ❤️🔥
October 8, 2026
Hunter & Ashley's story is fast paced... and a quick read at just 200 pages!
I love their witty & spicy interactions and how their story plays out.
This is Book 1 in the Firefighters of Ironridge series, as a standalone. I look forward to the rest of the series!
I like all the characters in the book & look forward to seeing them in more books also!
The book is told in a dual 1st person POV
Spice level: 3/5
*Firefighter romance
*first responder romance
*small town romance
*starts with a one night stand
*contemporary romance
*romantic suspense
*protective Alpha hero MMC
*novella length/quick read
*forced proximity
*enemies to lovers
*he falls first
Thank you to the author (Callie Embers) & Booksprout for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
I love their witty & spicy interactions and how their story plays out.
This is Book 1 in the Firefighters of Ironridge series, as a standalone. I look forward to the rest of the series!
I like all the characters in the book & look forward to seeing them in more books also!
The book is told in a dual 1st person POV
Spice level: 3/5
*Firefighter romance
*first responder romance
*small town romance
*starts with a one night stand
*contemporary romance
*romantic suspense
*protective Alpha hero MMC
*novella length/quick read
*forced proximity
*enemies to lovers
*he falls first
Thank you to the author (Callie Embers) & Booksprout for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
October 14, 2026
Thank you Callie for the eARC!
This was a cute small town romance, almost insta-lusty but not in a bad way. I loved that we see Ashley and Hunter grow as a person throughout the story and become more-rounded individuals
The supporting cast of side characters were a mix of funny but informative but also allowed for some essential info-dumping and world building to happen which I loved - almost as much as I loved the puppies!
For me it just needs some tweaks on the pacing - I get it’s only 198 pages but some things happened too fast for me personally and that kinda took me out of the book
Very excited for Beck’s story!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This was a cute small town romance, almost insta-lusty but not in a bad way. I loved that we see Ashley and Hunter grow as a person throughout the story and become more-rounded individuals
The supporting cast of side characters were a mix of funny but informative but also allowed for some essential info-dumping and world building to happen which I loved - almost as much as I loved the puppies!
For me it just needs some tweaks on the pacing - I get it’s only 198 pages but some things happened too fast for me personally and that kinda took me out of the book
Very excited for Beck’s story!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Omg, Callie Embers is back and it's made my week!!
I'd read the Thunder Valley series and it may have been my favourite firefighter series, but I love that these books are a bit longer and I really felt I got deeper into Hunter and Ashley's story arc. Fun, steamy, and a beautiful happily ever after. Loved it <3
I'd read the Thunder Valley series and it may have been my favourite firefighter series, but I love that these books are a bit longer and I really felt I got deeper into Hunter and Ashley's story arc. Fun, steamy, and a beautiful happily ever after. Loved it <3
October 10, 2026
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. I liked how Ashley and Hunter fell in love. I especially liked Ashley's honesty and how it resulted in Hunter's station being cleared and her boss being fired. I'm glad Hunter didn't let Ashley get away and that they could be together.
Review of advance copy
Book 1 of Firefighters of Ironridge story of Hunter and Ashley. Wow that reason Ashley was there was interesting and I loved how she handled not only Hunter but her boss too. I loved this sweet romance story and the puppies to boot.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews