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Hot in Chicago #0.5
Rekindle the Flame
Cuddle up by the fire with the irresistible prequel to Kate Meader’s smokin’ Hot in Chicago series—originally published in the sizzling holiday anthology Baby, It’s Cold Outside—a superhot e-novella that will warm you from your head to your heart and all the way to your toes!
Chicago firefighter Beck Rivera always knew his destiny would be defined by two things: his dream to follow in the footsteps of his legendary foster father Sean Dempsey and his teenage passion for heiress Darcy Cochrane, the one girl who could both stoke and cool his fire. Loving her meant setting her free and breaking her heart—and his. But when a chance reunion at his family’s bar, sparked by a drunk Santa, places her in his path again, destiny can no longer be denied.
The last thing heiress-turned-tattoo-artist Darcy Cochrane needs is the rollercoaster of emotion stirred up by her first love: sexy, gorgeous man-on-fire Beck Rivera. But he always had such talented hands. And more talented lips. And...maybe one time can’t hurt. Then she’ll send him packing like he did to her all those years ago. But Darcy and Beck soon discover that nothing ignites holiday flames like rekindling a lost love...
Chicago firefighter Beck Rivera always knew his destiny would be defined by two things: his dream to follow in the footsteps of his legendary foster father Sean Dempsey and his teenage passion for heiress Darcy Cochrane, the one girl who could both stoke and cool his fire. Loving her meant setting her free and breaking her heart—and his. But when a chance reunion at his family’s bar, sparked by a drunk Santa, places her in his path again, destiny can no longer be denied.
The last thing heiress-turned-tattoo-artist Darcy Cochrane needs is the rollercoaster of emotion stirred up by her first love: sexy, gorgeous man-on-fire Beck Rivera. But he always had such talented hands. And more talented lips. And...maybe one time can’t hurt. Then she’ll send him packing like he did to her all those years ago. But Darcy and Beck soon discover that nothing ignites holiday flames like rekindling a lost love...
129 pages, ebook
First published November 30, 2015
56 people are currently reading
997 people want to read
About the author
Kate Meader
55 books3,400 followersKate writes sexy contemporary, sports, and LGBTQ+ romance with strong guys and amazing women and men who match their heroes quip for quip. She's known for blending heat, humor, and heart into irresistibly romantic stories.
Sign up for her newsletter to get updates on sales, giveaways, and new releases.
The Rookie Rebels features a team of heroes who are about to learn that all's fair in love and hockey.
1. GOOD GUY (Levi and Jordan)
2. INSTACRUSH (Theo and Elle)
3. MAN DOWN (Gunnar and Sadie)
4. FOREPLAYER (Cal and Mia)
5. DEAR ROOMIE (Reid and Kennedy)
6. REBEL YULE (Erik and Casey)
7. JOCK WANTED (Fitz and Tara)
8. SUPERSTAR (Bast and Pepper)
9. WILD RIDE (Dex and Ashley)
10. HOCKEY WIFE (Banks and Georgia)
The Hot in Chicago Rookies series heads back to Engine 6 for more steamy firefighter romances.
0. COMING IN HOT (Tyler and Evie)
1. UP IN SMOKE (Roman and Abby)
2. DOWN IN FLAMES (Jude and Hudson)
3. HOT TO THE TOUCH (Sam and Cassandra)
The Laws of Attraction series about sexy divorce lawyers:
1. DOWN WITH LOVE (Max and Charlie)
2. ILLEGALLY YOURS (Lucas and Trinity)
3. THEN CAME YOU (Grant and Aubrey)
The Chicago Rebels series about sexy hockey players:
0.5 IN SKATES TROUBLE (Ford and Addison) - FREE!
1. IRRESISTIBLE YOU (Remy and Harper)
2. SO OVER YOU (Vadim and Isobel)
3. UNDONE BY YOU (Dante and Cade)
4. HOOKED ON YOU (Bren and Violet)
5. WRAPPED UP IN YOU (More Dante and Cade)
The Hot in Chicago series about sexy firefighters:
0.5 REKINDLE THE FLAME (Beck and Darcy)
1. FLIRTING WITH FIRE (Luke and Kinsey)
1.5 MELTING POINT (Gage and Brady)
2. PLAYING WITH FIRE (Eli and Alex)
3. SPARKING THE FIRE (Wyatt and Molly)
3.5 FOREVER IN FIRE (More Eli and Alex)
3.6 COMING IN HOT, Men in Uniform anthology (Tyler and Evie)
The Hot in the Kitchen series about sexy chefs:
1. FEEL THE HEAT (Jack and Lili)
2. ALL FIRED UP (Shane and Cara)
3. HOT AND BOTHERED (Tad and Jules)
... however each book can also be read as a standalone novel or novella.
For excerpts, news, and giveaways, visit: http://katemeader.com
Sign up for her newsletter to get updates on sales, giveaways, and new releases.
The Rookie Rebels features a team of heroes who are about to learn that all's fair in love and hockey.
1. GOOD GUY (Levi and Jordan)
2. INSTACRUSH (Theo and Elle)
3. MAN DOWN (Gunnar and Sadie)
4. FOREPLAYER (Cal and Mia)
5. DEAR ROOMIE (Reid and Kennedy)
6. REBEL YULE (Erik and Casey)
7. JOCK WANTED (Fitz and Tara)
8. SUPERSTAR (Bast and Pepper)
9. WILD RIDE (Dex and Ashley)
10. HOCKEY WIFE (Banks and Georgia)
The Hot in Chicago Rookies series heads back to Engine 6 for more steamy firefighter romances.
0. COMING IN HOT (Tyler and Evie)
1. UP IN SMOKE (Roman and Abby)
2. DOWN IN FLAMES (Jude and Hudson)
3. HOT TO THE TOUCH (Sam and Cassandra)
The Laws of Attraction series about sexy divorce lawyers:
1. DOWN WITH LOVE (Max and Charlie)
2. ILLEGALLY YOURS (Lucas and Trinity)
3. THEN CAME YOU (Grant and Aubrey)
The Chicago Rebels series about sexy hockey players:
0.5 IN SKATES TROUBLE (Ford and Addison) - FREE!
1. IRRESISTIBLE YOU (Remy and Harper)
2. SO OVER YOU (Vadim and Isobel)
3. UNDONE BY YOU (Dante and Cade)
4. HOOKED ON YOU (Bren and Violet)
5. WRAPPED UP IN YOU (More Dante and Cade)
The Hot in Chicago series about sexy firefighters:
0.5 REKINDLE THE FLAME (Beck and Darcy)
1. FLIRTING WITH FIRE (Luke and Kinsey)
1.5 MELTING POINT (Gage and Brady)
2. PLAYING WITH FIRE (Eli and Alex)
3. SPARKING THE FIRE (Wyatt and Molly)
3.5 FOREVER IN FIRE (More Eli and Alex)
3.6 COMING IN HOT, Men in Uniform anthology (Tyler and Evie)
The Hot in the Kitchen series about sexy chefs:
1. FEEL THE HEAT (Jack and Lili)
2. ALL FIRED UP (Shane and Cara)
3. HOT AND BOTHERED (Tad and Jules)
... however each book can also be read as a standalone novel or novella.
For excerpts, news, and giveaways, visit: http://katemeader.com
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October 1, 2015
Rekindle the Flame by Kate Meader is book 0.5 in the Hot in Chicago series. I read this book as part of the Baby It's Cold Outside anthology.
Darcy and Beck have a past. It’s been eight years since Beck walked away from her. Darcy is back in Chicago to help her ailing Grandmother for three months. She is from a prominent family but escaped out from under her father’s thumb and expectations and has gone from little princess to tattoo artist. She is going to help her Grandmother, then she is out of this town and away from her father’s influence.
Beck is a firefighter but is currently on a forced leave. He can’t believe Darcy is here in his bar. But this isn’t the Darcy he remembers. Can he convince her to give him a second chance? To stay?
“You always have my attention. When you’re in the room, you’re my sun.”
This was a sweet story of second chances and of finding your own way. These two together were smoking hot but still, so sweet.
“No more hiding. No more running. No more denying. I’m yours, mi reina. Always have been, always will be.”
Darcy and Beck have a past. It’s been eight years since Beck walked away from her. Darcy is back in Chicago to help her ailing Grandmother for three months. She is from a prominent family but escaped out from under her father’s thumb and expectations and has gone from little princess to tattoo artist. She is going to help her Grandmother, then she is out of this town and away from her father’s influence.
Beck is a firefighter but is currently on a forced leave. He can’t believe Darcy is here in his bar. But this isn’t the Darcy he remembers. Can he convince her to give him a second chance? To stay?
“You always have my attention. When you’re in the room, you’re my sun.”
This was a sweet story of second chances and of finding your own way. These two together were smoking hot but still, so sweet.
“No more hiding. No more running. No more denying. I’m yours, mi reina. Always have been, always will be.”
February 23, 2016
4 Stars
What's better than a second chance romance? A second chance romance written by Kate Meader. Something about her writing and her characters just works for me and this steamy little novella was no exception. This book was previously published in the anthology, Baby, It's Cold Outside, but now you can read just the individual story. If you're new to Kate's Hot In Chicago series, it's an addictingly good story that's set around foster siblings that are also firefighters. Sound hot? Well that's because it is!
Nine years ago, Beck Rivera and Darcy Cochrane were in love and inseparable until Beck broke Darcy's heart. Beck was the bad boy and Darcy was a heiress that deserved better...or so he thought. Now years later, a chance meeting brings them together again at his family's bar. But this time, Darcy has a plan of her own with beck...
Darcy is a different woman now, grasping onto and leading the life that she wants. A life that Beck never allowed her to show him. He thought she was meant for society luncheons, but all she wants is to work a tattoo gun. Now she has the chance to reignite the flame that never diminished between them and set him right at the same time.
I love that Kate never writes cookie cuter heroines. They're strong, independent females that know what they want and go for it. I loved how Darcy was a tattoo artist but it's her personality that truly drew me. She's strong but has just this right amount of vulnerability to endear the reader to her from the very first page.
As for Beck? Well, expect the same hot yet incredibly sweet alpha that only Kate can write.
This was an incredibly satisfying read in just 120+ pages. It was easy on the angst, heavy on the romance, with just enough steam added to the mix to have you reading it in one deliciously fabulous sitting.
If you haven't read anything by this author, I highly recommend you get acquainted. I've loved everything she writes, but her Hot In Chicago series is easily my new addiction. Sizzling romance, amazing characters, and a dash of swoons make it the perfect afternoon read!
ARC received in exchange for an honest review
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Nine years on, and nothing had changed. Beck Rivera was still the boy who heated her from the inside out....
What's better than a second chance romance? A second chance romance written by Kate Meader. Something about her writing and her characters just works for me and this steamy little novella was no exception. This book was previously published in the anthology, Baby, It's Cold Outside, but now you can read just the individual story. If you're new to Kate's Hot In Chicago series, it's an addictingly good story that's set around foster siblings that are also firefighters. Sound hot? Well that's because it is!
Nine years ago, Beck Rivera and Darcy Cochrane were in love and inseparable until Beck broke Darcy's heart. Beck was the bad boy and Darcy was a heiress that deserved better...or so he thought. Now years later, a chance meeting brings them together again at his family's bar. But this time, Darcy has a plan of her own with beck...
Darcy is a different woman now, grasping onto and leading the life that she wants. A life that Beck never allowed her to show him. He thought she was meant for society luncheons, but all she wants is to work a tattoo gun. Now she has the chance to reignite the flame that never diminished between them and set him right at the same time.
I love that Kate never writes cookie cuter heroines. They're strong, independent females that know what they want and go for it. I loved how Darcy was a tattoo artist but it's her personality that truly drew me. She's strong but has just this right amount of vulnerability to endear the reader to her from the very first page.
As for Beck? Well, expect the same hot yet incredibly sweet alpha that only Kate can write.
"You're evil, Beck Rivera."
This was an incredibly satisfying read in just 120+ pages. It was easy on the angst, heavy on the romance, with just enough steam added to the mix to have you reading it in one deliciously fabulous sitting.
If you haven't read anything by this author, I highly recommend you get acquainted. I've loved everything she writes, but her Hot In Chicago series is easily my new addiction. Sizzling romance, amazing characters, and a dash of swoons make it the perfect afternoon read!
ARC received in exchange for an honest review
Find me on:
September 24, 2015
"I’m a Firefighter— What’s Your Superpower?"
Great start of the series. This is a short story, so there are no deep emotions. But we have the opportunity to get to know the characters and the whole crew, who got another book.
This is the story of a second chance love. Very cool told. In truth I even regret that it is only a short story. I absolutely love the heroine of this part. Over the years she grew to kick ass woman. It's pleasure to meet her.
So quick and great to start the series. You can try it and see on its basis whether you are interested in a whole series or not. I can say that I had already read Playing with Fire, and really, really I liked it.
November 22, 2020
4 Lovin' Those Dempsey Stars
* * * * Spoiler Free- 2015 Review
I found this novella and was thrilled to have me back in The Dempsey's hold. It turns out this quick read was written for another book and now is out there as an additional treat for the series Hot in Chicago by Kate Meader.
Ms. Meader came up with a terrific concept of Firefighters, foster brothers, and sister adopted by the Irish Fire Captain Sean Dempsey and his wife. 5 ragtag kids who found salvation in the loving embrace of this couple. They all want to be like their "dad" Sean, and all of them do. They experience the heartache of losing both their dad and a brother in a fire. It makes all of them humble and thankful. In other words, all of the characters have heart, determination, and you root for them.
Oh, and there is, of course, Dempsey's the bar. So between a firehouse, different personalities, cultures, and the bonds, they all have for each other... each of the siblings will be getting a story. This one was for Buck, a Puerto Rican man who was once a gang-banger and now firefighter.
It is at Dempsey's while working the bar, Buck and Darcy are brought together by Drunk Santas, their crashing exits onto the sidewalk, and this beautiful woman in the line of fire...Darcy, society princess to Buck's bad boy have serious history. Once they were together...first blush of love...they were everything... then Buck drew the line... letting go of his princess for her own good... What good would he be for her...
With that history staring them in the face...we have a front-row seat to watch the fireworks... and brother, there are big explosions...
This was steaming hot... Meader writes great characters, both men and women... they fight hard, sex hard, and play hard too.
Meet this family thru this little novella. Get ready to want all your fires lit ...Hot in Chicago style.
A gifted copy was provided by Gallery, Threshold, Pocket Books via NetGalley for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
* * * * Spoiler Free- 2015 Review
I found this novella and was thrilled to have me back in The Dempsey's hold. It turns out this quick read was written for another book and now is out there as an additional treat for the series Hot in Chicago by Kate Meader.
Ms. Meader came up with a terrific concept of Firefighters, foster brothers, and sister adopted by the Irish Fire Captain Sean Dempsey and his wife. 5 ragtag kids who found salvation in the loving embrace of this couple. They all want to be like their "dad" Sean, and all of them do. They experience the heartache of losing both their dad and a brother in a fire. It makes all of them humble and thankful. In other words, all of the characters have heart, determination, and you root for them.
Oh, and there is, of course, Dempsey's the bar. So between a firehouse, different personalities, cultures, and the bonds, they all have for each other... each of the siblings will be getting a story. This one was for Buck, a Puerto Rican man who was once a gang-banger and now firefighter.
It is at Dempsey's while working the bar, Buck and Darcy are brought together by Drunk Santas, their crashing exits onto the sidewalk, and this beautiful woman in the line of fire...Darcy, society princess to Buck's bad boy have serious history. Once they were together...first blush of love...they were everything... then Buck drew the line... letting go of his princess for her own good... What good would he be for her...
With that history staring them in the face...we have a front-row seat to watch the fireworks... and brother, there are big explosions...
This was steaming hot... Meader writes great characters, both men and women... they fight hard, sex hard, and play hard too.
Meet this family thru this little novella. Get ready to want all your fires lit ...Hot in Chicago style.
A gifted copy was provided by Gallery, Threshold, Pocket Books via NetGalley for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
September 25, 2015
5 - "Find 'em hot, leave 'em wet." Stars!
Reading Slump Over!!!
Kate Meaders' writing to me, is akin to crack to an addict!
Loved it!
"When you're in the room, you're my sun."
Going straight onto the next book in the series.
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, in exchange for the above honest review.
Reading Slump Over!!!
Kate Meaders' writing to me, is akin to crack to an addict!
Loved it!
"When you're in the room, you're my sun."
Going straight onto the next book in the series.
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, in exchange for the above honest review.
January 9, 2019
He dumped her 7 years ago without any explanation. Now their path has crossed again and within the meeting of an hour, they were having sex.
Some more sex and chit chat but no sorry no groveling, not even an explanation for why he had broken up with her 7 years ago. Back then heroine used to be a weak teenage girl but now after seven years that women turn into a strong beautiful independent woman. And he had the gall to say that whatever she is now is this because of him. Because he broke up with her and that triggered her something and she becomes this fiery woman. He implied that if he hadn't broken up with her she would have that same girl she was before.
2 stars because I respect women who truly become independent by her own and without anyone influences. But I couldn't respect her at the end when she just accepts him without thinking the odds. The heroine deserves more than that. And The hero can go to hell.
Some more sex and chit chat but no sorry no groveling, not even an explanation for why he had broken up with her 7 years ago. Back then heroine used to be a weak teenage girl but now after seven years that women turn into a strong beautiful independent woman. And he had the gall to say that whatever she is now is this because of him. Because he broke up with her and that triggered her something and she becomes this fiery woman. He implied that if he hadn't broken up with her she would have that same girl she was before.
2 stars because I respect women who truly become independent by her own and without anyone influences. But I couldn't respect her at the end when she just accepts him without thinking the odds. The heroine deserves more than that. And The hero can go to hell.
October 30, 2025
„Seven years, and he still smelled like the boy she had held tight inside her soul all this time.“
This second-chance novella between a firefighter and a tattoo artist proves that it’s possible to write a compelling story in just 130 pages. The story and the characters are well developed and I adored how Beck fought for Darcy and their love. However, even though I liked the book, it didn't grab me emotionally.
Nevertheless, I can well imagine reading the next firefighter-book. (And I should really continue with the Rookie Rebels series eventually!)
3.5 stars
This second-chance novella between a firefighter and a tattoo artist proves that it’s possible to write a compelling story in just 130 pages. The story and the characters are well developed and I adored how Beck fought for Darcy and their love. However, even though I liked the book, it didn't grab me emotionally.
Nevertheless, I can well imagine reading the next firefighter-book. (And I should really continue with the Rookie Rebels series eventually!)
3.5 stars
October 6, 2015
Review Pending
January 26, 2019
Reread
1.5* maybe.......... spoilers ahead
I honestly was not a fan of this, generally I do not like second chance romances because the reason for the separation is most times really dumb and then the author expects me to believe that the love was so epic it never died so the reconciliation is usually fast paced.......but then why'd the epic love end so easily in the first damn place???? But I digress......in this one
H dumped h 7 years previously, one month after taking her virginity, without explanation. She's back in the city to assist her grandmother and one night while out with her friend she goes to his family's bar and after the requisite how've you been etc they have sex. Her idea of revenge sex? Where she walks away after( loved that part) but he tracks her down and the rich girl princess that he knew no longer exists. Darcy is a tattooed,badass,famous tattoo artist who thankfully did not try to be a born again virgin. She's now got quite a bit of sexual experience under her belt and has travelled the world. The H decides their love never died and with nary a grovel these two are banging like bunnies........🤦she does tell him that he hurt her when he ended them but see......he did it for her own good.... Because he's got demons and she deserved better and ......give me a damn break. So after copiously enjoying other women this dude shows up to a grand party in his fireman gear, gets the h to admit she's not the high society princess and to give them a shot and they ride off into the smoke smelling sunset. 🤦🙄 Nuh uh not my cuppa...but I like the family and the author's writing style just not this particular book or really this particular couple. Nevertheless on to the next .
1.5* maybe.......... spoilers ahead
I honestly was not a fan of this, generally I do not like second chance romances because the reason for the separation is most times really dumb and then the author expects me to believe that the love was so epic it never died so the reconciliation is usually fast paced.......but then why'd the epic love end so easily in the first damn place???? But I digress......in this one
H dumped h 7 years previously, one month after taking her virginity, without explanation. She's back in the city to assist her grandmother and one night while out with her friend she goes to his family's bar and after the requisite how've you been etc they have sex. Her idea of revenge sex? Where she walks away after( loved that part) but he tracks her down and the rich girl princess that he knew no longer exists. Darcy is a tattooed,badass,famous tattoo artist who thankfully did not try to be a born again virgin. She's now got quite a bit of sexual experience under her belt and has travelled the world. The H decides their love never died and with nary a grovel these two are banging like bunnies........🤦she does tell him that he hurt her when he ended them but see......he did it for her own good.... Because he's got demons and she deserved better and ......give me a damn break. So after copiously enjoying other women this dude shows up to a grand party in his fireman gear, gets the h to admit she's not the high society princess and to give them a shot and they ride off into the smoke smelling sunset. 🤦🙄 Nuh uh not my cuppa...but I like the family and the author's writing style just not this particular book or really this particular couple. Nevertheless on to the next .
September 17, 2016
Read this in the Baby, It's Cold Outside anthology.
August 8, 2017
Old flames reconnected. Beck and Darcy were their high school firsts and loved each other for all of 3 months before Beck dumped her with no reason and walked away. She was the daughter of pretentious wealth and he was the ex gangbanger adopted by a firefighter. Now 7 years later, Darcy is a sought after tattoo artist and Beck is a firefighter just like he planned.
I love this trope but it is so rarely done right. Happy to say this time I was totally satisfied!
He had his reasons, which were unselfish and yet selfish, and she calls him on it. Both MCs are decent yet flawed people. Darcy especially has a hard time of it being pulled apart by her family. Beck had a hard early childhood but his life since has been just what he planned... minus Darcy. She's in town for a few weeks and ends up in the bar his family owns. They reconnect and at first I was afraid the usual story path would be taken, with her being weak kneed at his magnificence. But no, she dishes him a healthy serving of comuppance. Then again later in the story I was afraid she was going to undermine Darcy again, but no it was a fine dramatic last minute save by the H. Really wish there had been an epilogue, but it wasn't needed.
Safety is great imho They both went on to other lovers, and yes, hers were good lovers. None of that she only sleeps with dweebs after him. In fact he gets pretty jealous about it but knows he has no right to be. He had other lovers, but was celibate for a year after they broke up before he could bring himself to go there.
I love this trope but it is so rarely done right. Happy to say this time I was totally satisfied!
He had his reasons, which were unselfish and yet selfish, and she calls him on it. Both MCs are decent yet flawed people. Darcy especially has a hard time of it being pulled apart by her family. Beck had a hard early childhood but his life since has been just what he planned... minus Darcy. She's in town for a few weeks and ends up in the bar his family owns. They reconnect and at first I was afraid the usual story path would be taken, with her being weak kneed at his magnificence. But no, she dishes him a healthy serving of comuppance. Then again later in the story I was afraid she was going to undermine Darcy again, but no it was a fine dramatic last minute save by the H. Really wish there had been an epilogue, but it wasn't needed.
Safety is great imho They both went on to other lovers, and yes, hers were good lovers. None of that she only sleeps with dweebs after him. In fact he gets pretty jealous about it but knows he has no right to be. He had other lovers, but was celibate for a year after they broke up before he could bring himself to go there.
November 30, 2015
I loved this! Fantastic story about reconnecting. Entertaining and sexy!
Beck and Darcy are really great, interesting characters. These two have a serious history and I loved all the details about their past. I enjoyed how the past played into the present and how much they've grown and changed. Them coming together was wonderful. So passionate! There were so many sweet, playful, entertaining moments between the Beck and Darcy as well as some extremely hot ones. They have massive chemistry and a ton of pent up of lust and tension from the past. Once they connect, sparks definitely fly!
There were a lot of fun parts in this that has me grinning. Darcy's friend Mel was great and I loved her grandmother. She was an unfiltered, inappropriate, commenting trip! A truly fascinating character. I loved getting to see all the Dempsey siblings too. Gage always makes me smile. Loved seeing all the connections from the first two books. I read the book one and two before this pre-novella so I was excited to know all of Beck and Darcy’s history and how they came together as a couple.
There was also nice amount of tension and emotion as well as a bit of drama mixed in making it a well rounded story with excellent writing. Awesome build too! The end was so sweet and romantic, Beck is a heck of a sexy firefighter. What a wonderful happily ever after! I love getting more of the Hot In Chicago series!
Beck and Darcy are really great, interesting characters. These two have a serious history and I loved all the details about their past. I enjoyed how the past played into the present and how much they've grown and changed. Them coming together was wonderful. So passionate! There were so many sweet, playful, entertaining moments between the Beck and Darcy as well as some extremely hot ones. They have massive chemistry and a ton of pent up of lust and tension from the past. Once they connect, sparks definitely fly!
There were a lot of fun parts in this that has me grinning. Darcy's friend Mel was great and I loved her grandmother. She was an unfiltered, inappropriate, commenting trip! A truly fascinating character. I loved getting to see all the Dempsey siblings too. Gage always makes me smile. Loved seeing all the connections from the first two books. I read the book one and two before this pre-novella so I was excited to know all of Beck and Darcy’s history and how they came together as a couple.
There was also nice amount of tension and emotion as well as a bit of drama mixed in making it a well rounded story with excellent writing. Awesome build too! The end was so sweet and romantic, Beck is a heck of a sexy firefighter. What a wonderful happily ever after! I love getting more of the Hot In Chicago series!
September 11, 2019
Three and a half stars.
Prequel novella to the Hot in Chicago series.
Beck Rivera and Darcy Cochrane had a romance as teens. He was the Puerto Rican son of a gangbanger fostered by firefighter Sean Dempsey, full of rage and violence. She was the heiress to millions. He broke their romance off and she fled Chicago heartbroken. Now she's back to look after her grandmother and they run into each other again in Dempsey's bar.
Beck's rejection was a pivotal moment in Darcy's life and she used it to brace herself against her father's controlling behaviour to forge a new life for herself, very different to that of the society princess Beck remembers. She doesn't want to go back but one glance is enough to confirm she never stopped loving Beck.
Fairly typical second-chance wrong-side-of-the-tracks romance complete with controlling father and curmudgeonly gran.
Prequel novella to the Hot in Chicago series.
Beck Rivera and Darcy Cochrane had a romance as teens. He was the Puerto Rican son of a gangbanger fostered by firefighter Sean Dempsey, full of rage and violence. She was the heiress to millions. He broke their romance off and she fled Chicago heartbroken. Now she's back to look after her grandmother and they run into each other again in Dempsey's bar.
Beck's rejection was a pivotal moment in Darcy's life and she used it to brace herself against her father's controlling behaviour to forge a new life for herself, very different to that of the society princess Beck remembers. She doesn't want to go back but one glance is enough to confirm she never stopped loving Beck.
Fairly typical second-chance wrong-side-of-the-tracks romance complete with controlling father and curmudgeonly gran.
November 26, 2015
Oh, Kate Meader. You sure know how to write a man that’ll send a girl up in flames of love and lust and heat and argh….all the good things. Beck Rivera—I love you.
Following in his foster father’s footstep to join to CFD was a given for Beck Rivera. Holding on to his first love, Darcy Cochrane was…not. He let her go once, and now—thanks to drunken Christmas revelers—she’s back in his life, and boy, is she different.
This time, Beck’s going to hold on to his girl, no matter what. All he has to do is convince her to do the same.
HOLY HOT FIREFIGHTER, BATMAN! I’m convinced that Rekindle the Flame couldn’t be any better. It was novella perfection. Paced perfectly, chock full of swoony, sexy moments, characters that were loveable, likeable and absolutely the kind of people you want to hang with in real life, and a sweet, passionate second chance at love. ALL THE THINGS I ADORE.
Beck was take-me-now HOT, with his Spanish words and his need to have Darcy back in his life, and in his arms. I loved how he was with her—that he loved all her sides, not just the heiress Darcy, or the tattoo-artist Darcy. The complete package. She was sassy and talented, and fighting to be her own person, and I, along with Beck, found that to be a total turn-on.
The dynamics of the Dempsey siblings were on full display here, in this first outing in the Hot in Chicago series, and it was so much fun to see them prior to meeting the loves of their lives—I read this series a little out of order, but that’s cool. It’s easy to follow the story! This firefighting family is funny as hell (CPF—‘county property fuckable’, LMAO), strong and protective of each other, and full of advice (good and bad), which makes them all the more amazing.
I cannot get enough of this series. I NEED Wyatt’s book ASAP, because if there’s one thing I know, it’s that Ms. Meader is sure to give me another swoonworthy man to burn up for! ~ Beth, 5 stars
~~~
Beck Rivera followed his dream to become a firefighter—following in the footsteps of his foster father, Sean Dempsey and foster brother, Logan. Throughout his teenage years, he had two passions: becoming a firefighter and Darcy Cochrane. Beck, determined that Darcy have the life she deserved, broke things off with Darcy right before he entered the fire academy. Saying goodbye nearly broke both of them.
Darcy Cochrane has avoided visiting home and Chicago for years. Now home only through the holidays, Darcy and Beck cross paths at his family’s bar—setting their feelings aflame again. After a one-night-no-holds-barred sex fest, both realize that one night wasn’t enough, but can the hurts of the past be put behind them in order to have the future they both want?
Man, oh man, am I a sucker for a second chance romance! Especially one that’s so damn good that I didn’t put it down until I read the whole thing! Beck and Darcy are two lost souls that, once they reunite, become whole. I FLOVED their backstory and how they have become the people they are now. Beck is always looking out for his “family” and Darcy is unbelievably strong, confident and independent. And holy smokes are they hot, hot, hot together! I cannot wait for Sparking the Fire—Wyatt’s book! ~ Missy, 5 stars
Following in his foster father’s footstep to join to CFD was a given for Beck Rivera. Holding on to his first love, Darcy Cochrane was…not. He let her go once, and now—thanks to drunken Christmas revelers—she’s back in his life, and boy, is she different.
This time, Beck’s going to hold on to his girl, no matter what. All he has to do is convince her to do the same.
HOLY HOT FIREFIGHTER, BATMAN! I’m convinced that Rekindle the Flame couldn’t be any better. It was novella perfection. Paced perfectly, chock full of swoony, sexy moments, characters that were loveable, likeable and absolutely the kind of people you want to hang with in real life, and a sweet, passionate second chance at love. ALL THE THINGS I ADORE.
Beck was take-me-now HOT, with his Spanish words and his need to have Darcy back in his life, and in his arms. I loved how he was with her—that he loved all her sides, not just the heiress Darcy, or the tattoo-artist Darcy. The complete package. She was sassy and talented, and fighting to be her own person, and I, along with Beck, found that to be a total turn-on.
The dynamics of the Dempsey siblings were on full display here, in this first outing in the Hot in Chicago series, and it was so much fun to see them prior to meeting the loves of their lives—I read this series a little out of order, but that’s cool. It’s easy to follow the story! This firefighting family is funny as hell (CPF—‘county property fuckable’, LMAO), strong and protective of each other, and full of advice (good and bad), which makes them all the more amazing.
I cannot get enough of this series. I NEED Wyatt’s book ASAP, because if there’s one thing I know, it’s that Ms. Meader is sure to give me another swoonworthy man to burn up for! ~ Beth, 5 stars
~~~
Beck Rivera followed his dream to become a firefighter—following in the footsteps of his foster father, Sean Dempsey and foster brother, Logan. Throughout his teenage years, he had two passions: becoming a firefighter and Darcy Cochrane. Beck, determined that Darcy have the life she deserved, broke things off with Darcy right before he entered the fire academy. Saying goodbye nearly broke both of them.
Darcy Cochrane has avoided visiting home and Chicago for years. Now home only through the holidays, Darcy and Beck cross paths at his family’s bar—setting their feelings aflame again. After a one-night-no-holds-barred sex fest, both realize that one night wasn’t enough, but can the hurts of the past be put behind them in order to have the future they both want?
Man, oh man, am I a sucker for a second chance romance! Especially one that’s so damn good that I didn’t put it down until I read the whole thing! Beck and Darcy are two lost souls that, once they reunite, become whole. I FLOVED their backstory and how they have become the people they are now. Beck is always looking out for his “family” and Darcy is unbelievably strong, confident and independent. And holy smokes are they hot, hot, hot together! I cannot wait for Sparking the Fire—Wyatt’s book! ~ Missy, 5 stars
September 23, 2015
This novella kicks off the Hot In Chicago series and boy what a great series this will be. Darcy and Beck come from different worlds but when they were younger they used to date.
Now years later both have changed but this holiday season they reconnect and the Sparks are still there.
I love second chance love stories. They are so sweet. I enjoyed how Darcy changes and didn't want to be controlled by her father. She grew into her own and did what she wanted. Beck is older and wiser, now that Darcy is back in his life he isn't willing to let her go again.
In this novella we get the background of Beck and his family. Each sibling will get there own story. Yippee!
I read this book after I have read the other books so I know who will be next and how things will play out but wow this is such a great series.
You don't have to read this book to get quickly entranced by the writing or the characters that heat up the book page after page. This is a new series I'm really looking forward to.
If you love hot firefighters and second chance love stories this is the story for you.
Now years later both have changed but this holiday season they reconnect and the Sparks are still there.
I love second chance love stories. They are so sweet. I enjoyed how Darcy changes and didn't want to be controlled by her father. She grew into her own and did what she wanted. Beck is older and wiser, now that Darcy is back in his life he isn't willing to let her go again.
In this novella we get the background of Beck and his family. Each sibling will get there own story. Yippee!
I read this book after I have read the other books so I know who will be next and how things will play out but wow this is such a great series.
You don't have to read this book to get quickly entranced by the writing or the characters that heat up the book page after page. This is a new series I'm really looking forward to.
If you love hot firefighters and second chance love stories this is the story for you.
Read
May 20, 2015Previously published in BABY, IT'S COLD OUTSIDE.
REKINDLE THE FLAME is Beck and Darcy's story, a prequel novella to the Hot in Chicago series. If you've read the BABY, IT'S COLD OUTSIDE anthology, then you may have already come across REKINDLE THE FLAME, about a sexy Latino firefighter and an heiress-turned-tattoo-artist who re-ignite an old teenage love. Firefighters. Check. Tattoos. Check. Reunion romance. Triple check! If you don't have the anthology, you can now pre-order the novella separately (releases Nov 30, 2015). Meet the Firefightin' Dempseys for the first time and get swept away by their sizzling romances!
Though this is billed as a prequel novella, REKINDLE THE FLAME and all stories in the Hot in Chicago series can be enjoyed as standalones.
REKINDLE THE FLAME is Beck and Darcy's story, a prequel novella to the Hot in Chicago series. If you've read the BABY, IT'S COLD OUTSIDE anthology, then you may have already come across REKINDLE THE FLAME, about a sexy Latino firefighter and an heiress-turned-tattoo-artist who re-ignite an old teenage love. Firefighters. Check. Tattoos. Check. Reunion romance. Triple check! If you don't have the anthology, you can now pre-order the novella separately (releases Nov 30, 2015). Meet the Firefightin' Dempseys for the first time and get swept away by their sizzling romances!
Though this is billed as a prequel novella, REKINDLE THE FLAME and all stories in the Hot in Chicago series can be enjoyed as standalones.
November 30, 2015
Previously published in the Baby It's Cold Outside Anthology
Firefighter? check. Hot bartender? check. Combine the two (into one hottie), add in a tattooed rebel and you have a wonderful reunited lovers story that introduces some new delicious male characters that are featured in the Hot In Chicago series. I appreciated that Darcy was hesitant to give Beck a second chance and was cautious in her approach with him. Also I really liked Darcy's character in general, being free to be herself finally and the shock it gives Beck to see the changes she has gone through since their breakup seven years earlier. I enjoyed the camaraderie between the firefighters. Combining witty dialogue, humour and steamy scenes, this story will have you scoping out your own taverns in search of the elusive handsome males presented here.
Firefighter? check. Hot bartender? check. Combine the two (into one hottie), add in a tattooed rebel and you have a wonderful reunited lovers story that introduces some new delicious male characters that are featured in the Hot In Chicago series. I appreciated that Darcy was hesitant to give Beck a second chance and was cautious in her approach with him. Also I really liked Darcy's character in general, being free to be herself finally and the shock it gives Beck to see the changes she has gone through since their breakup seven years earlier. I enjoyed the camaraderie between the firefighters. Combining witty dialogue, humour and steamy scenes, this story will have you scoping out your own taverns in search of the elusive handsome males presented here.
December 6, 2015
4.5 stars
Super sweet and sexy second chance romance centered on Beck Dempsey and his first love Darcy Cochrane. RTF is a quick read and as with all books by Kate Meader, it's sultry and fun.
Super sweet and sexy second chance romance centered on Beck Dempsey and his first love Darcy Cochrane. RTF is a quick read and as with all books by Kate Meader, it's sultry and fun.
March 27, 2018
Cute. Novella. 9 years later a once prissy good-girl (turned bad ass) is reunited with her firefighting first love.
April 25, 2019
3.5 probably. This was a fun and sexy story. It's a decent introduction to the world and some of the characters. For a half book length, it does a good job with these characters and their sexy times. It helps being a second chance romance, so they already know each other. It does not have much on the firefighter part of Beck's job, which is why I am reading the series, but hopefully in a full length book the firefighter part can be covered a little bit more along with the relationship part.
October 12, 2015
"The one who got away" mixed in with "if you love someone set them free".
This story was part of Baby, It's Cold Outside holiday anthology before being released as standalone novella. Rekindle the Flame was prequel to the Hot in Chicago series, stories that revolved around the Dempseys, a family made of foster siblings raised by a heroic firefighter Sean Dempsey.
As individuals, both characters were very likable. I especially enjoyed Beck's interactions with his siblings. The fact that this siblings came in the forms of hunky firefighters was a bonus.
As a couple, gorgeous though these two, there was something left wanting. By that I referred to Beck's lack of proper grovelling. After his oh so noble action of seven years past, Beck could NOT just see Darcy, decided that he still loved her and proceed to charm her outta her undies. That just would not do!
And thus, I didn't really feel the romance between them. There was romance, yeah, but in a too rushy way to my opinion.
The good thing is I like Kate Meader writing style. And it also helped that prior to this book, I've read Playing with Fire. Pretty backward order, I know. But at least that helped me to know the whole Dempsey clan and their antics. Call it a spoiler. *winks*
And it also helped a lot that I loved the image of kick-ass lady tattoo-artist. She's a marshmallow on the inside, though. Oh, and I LOVED the comics banter! One of the uplifting moments here for me.
Note:
ARC was kindly provided by the publisher via NetGalley for the exchange of an honest review.
This story was part of Baby, It's Cold Outside holiday anthology before being released as standalone novella. Rekindle the Flame was prequel to the Hot in Chicago series, stories that revolved around the Dempseys, a family made of foster siblings raised by a heroic firefighter Sean Dempsey.
As individuals, both characters were very likable. I especially enjoyed Beck's interactions with his siblings. The fact that this siblings came in the forms of hunky firefighters was a bonus.
As a couple, gorgeous though these two, there was something left wanting. By that I referred to Beck's lack of proper grovelling. After his oh so noble action of seven years past, Beck could NOT just see Darcy, decided that he still loved her and proceed to charm her outta her undies. That just would not do!
And thus, I didn't really feel the romance between them. There was romance, yeah, but in a too rushy way to my opinion.
The good thing is I like Kate Meader writing style. And it also helped that prior to this book, I've read Playing with Fire. Pretty backward order, I know. But at least that helped me to know the whole Dempsey clan and their antics. Call it a spoiler. *winks*
And it also helped a lot that I loved the image of kick-ass lady tattoo-artist. She's a marshmallow on the inside, though. Oh, and I LOVED the comics banter! One of the uplifting moments here for me.
Note:
ARC was kindly provided by the publisher via NetGalley for the exchange of an honest review.
December 31, 2015
★★★★½
Rekindle the Flame is an adult contemporary romance short-story written by Kate Meader. I listened to the audio version as part of the romance anthology titled Baby, It's Cold Outside, which has this story titled as Bringing the Heat. It is also #0.5 in Ms. Meader's Hot in Chicago series. This was my first exposure to a series that now has me very, very interested.
I really liked this one...a lot! Rekindle the Flame was a VERY close second favorite in the anthology. Yes, it's about firemen but not only in the sexy, hot calendar way. Mostly about mending the hurts from your past, finding yourself, and growing stronger. Loved the heroine in this one...and yes, the hero too. Loved it!
Rekindle the Flame is an adult contemporary romance short-story written by Kate Meader. I listened to the audio version as part of the romance anthology titled Baby, It's Cold Outside, which has this story titled as Bringing the Heat. It is also #0.5 in Ms. Meader's Hot in Chicago series. This was my first exposure to a series that now has me very, very interested.
I really liked this one...a lot! Rekindle the Flame was a VERY close second favorite in the anthology. Yes, it's about firemen but not only in the sexy, hot calendar way. Mostly about mending the hurts from your past, finding yourself, and growing stronger. Loved the heroine in this one...and yes, the hero too. Loved it!
October 26, 2015
Kate Meader has brought her reader a sexy festive novella in the prequel to her Hot in Chicago series.
Girl walked into a bar, hooked up with her destiny.
With a passionate chemistry and history, Darcy and Beck were both likeable, yet something was still missing; it could be the shorter length, but their reignited feelings felt a little rushed and whilst there was romance, I didn't really become invested in them.
"Problem catching a breath, miss? I can help. Qualified EMT."
Don't get me wrong I enjoyed it, but it's one of those books that I've read and will forget fairly quickly. But, if you're looking for a short sexy fix, this ticks the boxes.
Copy received courtesy of the publisher via NetGalley for an honest and unbiased opinion.
Girl walked into a bar, hooked up with her destiny.
With a passionate chemistry and history, Darcy and Beck were both likeable, yet something was still missing; it could be the shorter length, but their reignited feelings felt a little rushed and whilst there was romance, I didn't really become invested in them.
"Problem catching a breath, miss? I can help. Qualified EMT."
Don't get me wrong I enjoyed it, but it's one of those books that I've read and will forget fairly quickly. But, if you're looking for a short sexy fix, this ticks the boxes.
Copy received courtesy of the publisher via NetGalley for an honest and unbiased opinion.
November 7, 2016
This book was good, but could have been much better! The characters seemed more focused on revenge sex and not letting each other close than on actually falling for one another again. Heck, they fell into bed more than they actually got to know one another! The writing was good, however, and the story felt complete, even with this being a novella, so that is a testament to the author's ability to keep a reader entranced! I'm definitely wanting to try the next book in the series, even though this one was a bit of a miss for me.
September 3, 2022
This one was a good second chance romance, together in high school then meeting years later as adults. I also thought this one did a great job of introducing the series, all the siblings, their jobs, everything so interconnected. I liked that the second time around Luke and Darcy managed to make things work.
March 27, 2018
Great start to a new author & new series for me.
November 20, 2023
Relato corto navideño sobre una segunda oportunidad. Darcy Cochrane (25) y Beck Javier Rivera (26) tuvieron un rollo hace siete años. Él cortó con ella because reasons. Se reencuentran por azares de la vida en el bar de la familia de él y, a los diez minutos, ya le están dando al tema. Todo muy apasionado. Darcy pretende que no le guarda rencor, pero anda que no... a Beck le costará un poco convencerla de que se den una segunda oportunidad. Darcy es alma viajera y Beck tiene todo el arraigo del mundo en Chicago.
Buen comienzo de esta serie sobre una familia bomberil de Chicago. Te pica para saber más de estos Dempsey, hermanos de acogida, ya que no de sangre. Beck será boricua, pero también más irlandesón que la Guiness.
Novela amena, con sus toques de humor y de sensualidad, ¡y narrada en tercera persona...!
Crítica más extensa, en mi blog.
Buen comienzo de esta serie sobre una familia bomberil de Chicago. Te pica para saber más de estos Dempsey, hermanos de acogida, ya que no de sangre. Beck será boricua, pero también más irlandesón que la Guiness.
Novela amena, con sus toques de humor y de sensualidad, ¡y narrada en tercera persona...!
Crítica más extensa, en mi blog.
January 3, 2022
I get that this is a novella, but there still wasn't enough plot to justify the story. Too much lust, not enough depth. I require a little more substance thank you very much.
February 19, 2017
Really enjoyed this quick read. It was obvious from the beginning how much Beck loved Darcy. A lot of quirky and funny banter between the two but also a seriousness that I could appreciate.
November 30, 2015
Kate Meader's Hot in Chicago series is one of my favorites.
This is the novella which was featured in Baby, It's Cold Outside and it's all about Beck and Darcy.
I read the other books first, so it was great going back and seeing Eli, Luke and Gage before they fell in love.
Beck Rivera made a mistake. Seven years ago he let Darcy leave town. He wanted her to conquer the world. He didn't feel he was good enough for her. He was just a kid and his only ambition was to become a firefighter, just like his foster dad had been.
Darcy Cochrane is back in town for a few months helping her grandmother heal. She doesn't see eye to eye with her dad and she has been living mostly in Europe. She has become a tattoo artist and a very good one at that. Seeing Beck again has made her realize she has been running and he's tempting her to stop.
I love how the novella ended. Nothing more romantic than Beck supporting Darcy and making a statement about it. It made my heart melt with love.
"When you're in the room, you're my sun."
Cliffhanger: No
5/5 Fangs
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