What do you think?
Rate this book
Fire and Ash
Fire Investigator Sadie McGregor has been called to her hometown of Emerald Point, Missouri to investigate a suspicious fire, which claimed the life of a local college student. Sadie loves her job and the challenges that come with it, but this case may turn out to be her toughest as she is forced to come to terms with the fire that destroyed her family when she was a little girl. Quinn Harrington is no stranger to grief. After losing his wife to cancer, his strong faith helped him through that dark valley. When he meets Sadie and learns about her past, he is determined to prove God still loves her. As they team up to solve the case, Quinn and Sadie must determine if the fire was accidental, an insurance scam gone horribly wrong, or something even more sinister. The answer may cost one of them their life.
210 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 1, 2010
101 people are currently reading
480 people want to read
About the author
Anne Patrick
35 books84 followersAnne Patrick is the author of more than a dozen novels of Romance, Mayhem & Faith including the award-winning and best-selling Wounded Heroes Series, Fire and Ash and Out of the Darkness. When she isn't working on her next novel she enjoys spending time with family and friends. A former Oklahoma native, she now resides in Kansas. Look her up on social media. She loves to hear from her readers!
Social Media Links
Website: www.annepatrickbooks.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/anne.patrick.98
Twitter: https://twitter.com/suspensebyanne
Social Media Links
Website: www.annepatrickbooks.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/anne.patrick.98
Twitter: https://twitter.com/suspensebyanne
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
November 10, 2015
ZERO STARS. NOT RECOMMENDED!
Horrible. DNF.
I expected a book about a strong, confident female fire investigator. Instead? I got a diatribe about how if you aren't "god fearing" you aren't worth dirt. Smarmy, acrimonious, sanctimonious - you get the picture. I never can fathom the mindset of the rabidly religious. Supposedly, Jesus said something to the effect of being kind, considerate, understanding, and to love your neighbor. This book falls on the side of "If you don't fall in lockstep like Hitler's little soldier, you aren't as good as me and better fall in line and understand that everything is 'gods will', no matter what atrocities happen to and around you (and believe me, if this 'god's will has caused a tenth of the things I have seen in my life, that is one vicious bastard - just sayin') - and if you don't, you aren't worth love, compassion, consideration, kindness or understanding."
Observe.
The police chief is supposedly 'taken' with her, but since she isn't fall-on-her-knees and 'thank the lord' every time something horrible happens (for example, the fire that killed her parents - which she accidentally started at 7 years old being a prime example) she isn't good enough for his holier-than-thou self. Believe me, he doesn't deserve a strong, capable, intelligent woman (one he looks down on not only because she doesn't buy into the religious fervor, but because she isn't "ladylike" and works on car engines instead of doing needlepoint. ) And she buys into it - because she is working under a car and has oil on her face, she is humiliated (?!?!) when he shows up unexpectedly and sees her being a real, live person instead of a plastic Barbie doll. Gag.
And: He was "appalled"(!) that she ". . . doesn't have a 'personal relationship' with 'him.' Oh, and I really loved the ". . . he knew right away she was a McGregor, or according to her wedding ring, used to be." (So, because she got married she belongs to her husband now, and can't lay claim to her original family? What, her DNA changed or something?)
But the best zinger? I really loved this, " . . . he likes her, but ""He needed someone that shared his faith, a woman whose heart belonged to God. . ."" The next words he thinks? "Lord, soften her heart so she can know the unconditional love you offer to all your children."
WOW! Hypocrite Much?!?!?
Ugh. That is when I flipped over to the end for a laugh and read "God totaled your car . . .to prove a point." Well, actually, Mr. Hypocritical was apparently driving her hand restored-antique VW Beetle at the time, but far be it from HIM to accept responsibility for his own actions. god musta done it. Yeah, that's it! god dun' it! I was going to check to see if "god" wrecked her car to prove that pretty little girls didn't do things like be fire investigators and restore cars, they cooked, cleaned, bred good little Stepford children, and went to church instead, but by that time I pretty much threw up in my mouth, deleted this crap from my reader, and poured a glass of 15 year old Scotch to wash the garbage out of my mouth. Now, if I could just find some bleach for my brain, maybe I can wash out my mind as well.
I am sure she winds up toeing the line, falling for the religious pablum and falling on her back to breed all sorts of new little god fearing brats, but I could have cared less what happened in the end. I just can't believe that a woman still finds it acceptable to write a book where women (and others) are treated like garbage because they don't allow themselves to drink the Koolaid and become Stepford robots. That is the same attitude that makes it acceptable in men's minds to treat women as less than human, less than men, only good for screwing, breeding, cooking and cleaning, and being a punching bag. Who should have no rights to lives of their own, to hold down high paying jobs, exhibit self-confidence or control over their own bodies, the right to choose what to do with their own lives, or the right to walk down a street in safety without being pulled into an alley and raped, or to be able to actually be in a relationship of their choosing without being beaten and demeaned on a regular basis just because a wife is 'property.' The author's mindset hearkens back to the bad old days, when all these things were commonplace and accepted as simply the way things were. In other words, this author should be ashamed of herself. If this is the way the 'church' still thinks, no wonder they are losing followers by the thousands. This mindset is medieval.
Honestly, I would have simply deleted it without blowing up in print, though I would have still hit the Scotch bottle and wished for brain bleach - but to be honest, the fact is that I find it deeply offensive this atrocity received five stars from others. Until we outgrow the mindset of women as lesser beings we will never advance as human beings. And until we outgrow religious fanaticism humans will continue to devolve back into savages, fighting wars and spreading hate based on superstition.
Horrible. DNF.
I expected a book about a strong, confident female fire investigator. Instead? I got a diatribe about how if you aren't "god fearing" you aren't worth dirt. Smarmy, acrimonious, sanctimonious - you get the picture. I never can fathom the mindset of the rabidly religious. Supposedly, Jesus said something to the effect of being kind, considerate, understanding, and to love your neighbor. This book falls on the side of "If you don't fall in lockstep like Hitler's little soldier, you aren't as good as me and better fall in line and understand that everything is 'gods will', no matter what atrocities happen to and around you (and believe me, if this 'god's will has caused a tenth of the things I have seen in my life, that is one vicious bastard - just sayin') - and if you don't, you aren't worth love, compassion, consideration, kindness or understanding."
Observe.
The police chief is supposedly 'taken' with her, but since she isn't fall-on-her-knees and 'thank the lord' every time something horrible happens (for example, the fire that killed her parents - which she accidentally started at 7 years old being a prime example) she isn't good enough for his holier-than-thou self. Believe me, he doesn't deserve a strong, capable, intelligent woman (one he looks down on not only because she doesn't buy into the religious fervor, but because she isn't "ladylike" and works on car engines instead of doing needlepoint. ) And she buys into it - because she is working under a car and has oil on her face, she is humiliated (?!?!) when he shows up unexpectedly and sees her being a real, live person instead of a plastic Barbie doll. Gag.
And: He was "appalled"(!) that she ". . . doesn't have a 'personal relationship' with 'him.' Oh, and I really loved the ". . . he knew right away she was a McGregor, or according to her wedding ring, used to be." (So, because she got married she belongs to her husband now, and can't lay claim to her original family? What, her DNA changed or something?)
But the best zinger? I really loved this, " . . . he likes her, but ""He needed someone that shared his faith, a woman whose heart belonged to God. . ."" The next words he thinks? "Lord, soften her heart so she can know the unconditional love you offer to all your children."
WOW! Hypocrite Much?!?!?
Ugh. That is when I flipped over to the end for a laugh and read "God totaled your car . . .to prove a point." Well, actually, Mr. Hypocritical was apparently driving her hand restored-antique VW Beetle at the time, but far be it from HIM to accept responsibility for his own actions. god musta done it. Yeah, that's it! god dun' it! I was going to check to see if "god" wrecked her car to prove that pretty little girls didn't do things like be fire investigators and restore cars, they cooked, cleaned, bred good little Stepford children, and went to church instead, but by that time I pretty much threw up in my mouth, deleted this crap from my reader, and poured a glass of 15 year old Scotch to wash the garbage out of my mouth. Now, if I could just find some bleach for my brain, maybe I can wash out my mind as well.
I am sure she winds up toeing the line, falling for the religious pablum and falling on her back to breed all sorts of new little god fearing brats, but I could have cared less what happened in the end. I just can't believe that a woman still finds it acceptable to write a book where women (and others) are treated like garbage because they don't allow themselves to drink the Koolaid and become Stepford robots. That is the same attitude that makes it acceptable in men's minds to treat women as less than human, less than men, only good for screwing, breeding, cooking and cleaning, and being a punching bag. Who should have no rights to lives of their own, to hold down high paying jobs, exhibit self-confidence or control over their own bodies, the right to choose what to do with their own lives, or the right to walk down a street in safety without being pulled into an alley and raped, or to be able to actually be in a relationship of their choosing without being beaten and demeaned on a regular basis just because a wife is 'property.' The author's mindset hearkens back to the bad old days, when all these things were commonplace and accepted as simply the way things were. In other words, this author should be ashamed of herself. If this is the way the 'church' still thinks, no wonder they are losing followers by the thousands. This mindset is medieval.
Honestly, I would have simply deleted it without blowing up in print, though I would have still hit the Scotch bottle and wished for brain bleach - but to be honest, the fact is that I find it deeply offensive this atrocity received five stars from others. Until we outgrow the mindset of women as lesser beings we will never advance as human beings. And until we outgrow religious fanaticism humans will continue to devolve back into savages, fighting wars and spreading hate based on superstition.
Read
October 4, 2010When you are called to a career choice, not a lot people can say they bring actually life experience to the job. Fire Investigator Sadie McGregor can actually say she does – as a fire survivor herself and having worked her way up through the ranks she knows more about not only the logistical aspect of the job but also alot about what it takes mentally to see each and every call through.
Sadie is in limbo in her life, she is more or less going with the flow and if asked she would probably say she is fine. With a job she love that gets her through her days, her best friend close at hand and her family in her corner when she needs them – she makes the best of life.
When she is called out to her home town for a suspicious fire which has resulted in a young girl losing her life, little did she know that life as she knew it was about to change in a big way. Meeting Sheriff Quinn Harrington is part of that change and the fact that despite her not yet finished with her investigation – her little hometown of Emerald Point is about to be rocked with probably the biggest scandal to have hit it in generations. In itself meeting Quinn is not a big deal , but couple that with being attracted to him, family interference and the fact that she has to make her peace with herself, her family and with god – Sadie has an uphill battle to fight.
Quinn, new to Emerald Point and trying to find his feet in not only the new town but with the people as well, is struck by Sadie as soon as they meet – literally and figuratively – but where one shock wears off the other only intensifies and he intends to see where the attraction goes. Quinn may have more on his plate than just an attraction because small town and it’s old boys network has no time for newbie's and Quinn may just have a bigger fight on his hand than he even imagined when the old boys start closing ranks..
Together Sadie and Quinn have a lot to sort through but before they get a chance to air it all – Sadie has to stay alive.
I read a few inspirational read a month but only on recommendation – Ms Patrick’s work was pimped out to me a while ago and lucky for me I won this book on her blog which kinda knicks any plan I had to drag my feet on reading a recommended book.
FIRE AND ASH starts off with an acknowledgement to a serving Fire Investigator – and I am one of those quirky readers that really looks at how much an author research come over into his/her work. Ms. Patricks did her fire contact personnel proud. While the book had two story lines running through it the murder mystery was the plotline that had me racing through this book.
With a tight solid story filled with small town high jinks and characters that range from the surly young man with the chip on his shoulder to the old patriarch of the community who just happens to be up to the usual, I easy sunk into this read. Some of the things that stood out for me are
The characters themselves – and I mean all the characters, I love the fact that these people has seen some life. They were mature, took adult decisions and were willing to stick to what they believe in. A wonderful mix of people I thought.
Humour – As much as this was a mystery there was a good mix of humour in the book – both ha ha funny and sarcastic funny as well.
Family Dynamic – Family dynamics is not an easy thing to work for me in a book, but I love Sadie’s family. They rooted for each other and teased each other mercilessly, but they also knew when to give home truths as well.
Small town aspect – I am a big fan of small town set up and Ms Patrick really brought out the characters that makes small town living a joy and a pain.. They had me smiling a time or two.
Not everything worked for me.. Some of it has to do with my own personal preference like the loose ends being tie up too quickly and too easily. I love when due justice is met out to the bad guy and after the build up and a rather decent tension filled book – I was a little let down by the convenient tie up on the mystery story line.
The emotional involvement between Sadie and Quinn I also thought was a little too fast – they would have naturally navigated towards towards each other – as they did have something special between them, but I would have loved for them to have done it as a slower pace.
The inspiration aspect of this book I thought overshadowed quite a bit of the book. While the book is marketed as Inspirational Suspense – the heavier angle was definately the inspirational bit. I thought Sadie could have used a little bit less pressure in coming to her decisions about her live in her own time.
Bottom Line
As an introduction to Ms. Patrick's work FIRE AND ASH was a smashing read, as a reader who love the skulduggery – FIRE AND ASH more than met my expectations and as a reader who love the finer details in a book, I thought Ms. Patrick was spot on with details about the world of a fire investigator – her investment in her research could be seen and that more than anything else made this book a winner for me.
Sadie is in limbo in her life, she is more or less going with the flow and if asked she would probably say she is fine. With a job she love that gets her through her days, her best friend close at hand and her family in her corner when she needs them – she makes the best of life.
When she is called out to her home town for a suspicious fire which has resulted in a young girl losing her life, little did she know that life as she knew it was about to change in a big way. Meeting Sheriff Quinn Harrington is part of that change and the fact that despite her not yet finished with her investigation – her little hometown of Emerald Point is about to be rocked with probably the biggest scandal to have hit it in generations. In itself meeting Quinn is not a big deal , but couple that with being attracted to him, family interference and the fact that she has to make her peace with herself, her family and with god – Sadie has an uphill battle to fight.
Quinn, new to Emerald Point and trying to find his feet in not only the new town but with the people as well, is struck by Sadie as soon as they meet – literally and figuratively – but where one shock wears off the other only intensifies and he intends to see where the attraction goes. Quinn may have more on his plate than just an attraction because small town and it’s old boys network has no time for newbie's and Quinn may just have a bigger fight on his hand than he even imagined when the old boys start closing ranks..
Together Sadie and Quinn have a lot to sort through but before they get a chance to air it all – Sadie has to stay alive.
I read a few inspirational read a month but only on recommendation – Ms Patrick’s work was pimped out to me a while ago and lucky for me I won this book on her blog which kinda knicks any plan I had to drag my feet on reading a recommended book.
FIRE AND ASH starts off with an acknowledgement to a serving Fire Investigator – and I am one of those quirky readers that really looks at how much an author research come over into his/her work. Ms. Patricks did her fire contact personnel proud. While the book had two story lines running through it the murder mystery was the plotline that had me racing through this book.
With a tight solid story filled with small town high jinks and characters that range from the surly young man with the chip on his shoulder to the old patriarch of the community who just happens to be up to the usual, I easy sunk into this read. Some of the things that stood out for me are
The characters themselves – and I mean all the characters, I love the fact that these people has seen some life. They were mature, took adult decisions and were willing to stick to what they believe in. A wonderful mix of people I thought.
Humour – As much as this was a mystery there was a good mix of humour in the book – both ha ha funny and sarcastic funny as well.
Family Dynamic – Family dynamics is not an easy thing to work for me in a book, but I love Sadie’s family. They rooted for each other and teased each other mercilessly, but they also knew when to give home truths as well.
Small town aspect – I am a big fan of small town set up and Ms Patrick really brought out the characters that makes small town living a joy and a pain.. They had me smiling a time or two.
Not everything worked for me.. Some of it has to do with my own personal preference like the loose ends being tie up too quickly and too easily. I love when due justice is met out to the bad guy and after the build up and a rather decent tension filled book – I was a little let down by the convenient tie up on the mystery story line.
The emotional involvement between Sadie and Quinn I also thought was a little too fast – they would have naturally navigated towards towards each other – as they did have something special between them, but I would have loved for them to have done it as a slower pace.
The inspiration aspect of this book I thought overshadowed quite a bit of the book. While the book is marketed as Inspirational Suspense – the heavier angle was definately the inspirational bit. I thought Sadie could have used a little bit less pressure in coming to her decisions about her live in her own time.
Bottom Line
As an introduction to Ms. Patrick's work FIRE AND ASH was a smashing read, as a reader who love the skulduggery – FIRE AND ASH more than met my expectations and as a reader who love the finer details in a book, I thought Ms. Patrick was spot on with details about the world of a fire investigator – her investment in her research could be seen and that more than anything else made this book a winner for me.
June 1, 2011
Sadie McGregor lost her parents and brother in a fire, and subsequently lived with her uncle’s family, Joe and Hannah McGregor, from age seven. It was Joe’s influence along with the death of her family that influenced her to become a firefighter…and later a fire investigator. The fire that took her family has haunted her for years and puts her trust in God in jeopardy. In fact, she’s bitter and guilt-ridden.
Sadie was called to the Emerald Point, Missouri, fire due to staff coverages. It’s also her hometown. The fire scene included a fatality, Larrissa Ingram, a college student from a well-respected family.
Initially misidentified by Police Chief Quinn Harrington at the scene, the sparks of romance hit the Police Chief upon introduction to Sadie. Though strong-willed and opinionated, she is an accurate fire investigator–and that special someone whom Quinn hadn’t met since the loss of his wife. However, her first impression of Quinn was that he was a klutz. Sadie’s wit and ability to banter back and forth with Quinn makes for a fun read amidst the tragedy.
As a forensics show enthusiast, I found that Anne Patrick, in her book, Fire and Ash, goes into great, minute detail of the fire investigation, that puts you on the scent of a perpetrator. Her unique ability to incorporate multiple plots to throw you off course makes the pages fly by to connect the dots. The suspense builds as Sadie’s life is endangered. Someone wants her quieted, but who?
The scenes are what I would expect in a fire investigation–dangerous, thorough and highly accurate. The personal interaction with those involved with the investigation are incorporated well and very real. The suspense and physical danger, along with the smoking romance, add the great touches to this novel to keep you intrigued. Though I found the romance a bit hasty, I am well aware that many people can and do find their life mate in a very short time period.
The relationship between Sadie and her uncle and aunt’s family was touching, personal and delightful. Faith and trust in God flow through the pages, but their relationship with Him comes natural in their lives, except for Sadie.
This is definitely a book I’d recommend for those who thrive on mystery and suspense, with a simmering of romance!
This book was provided by Anne Patrick in exchange for my honest review. No monetary compensation was exchanged for my review.
Sadie was called to the Emerald Point, Missouri, fire due to staff coverages. It’s also her hometown. The fire scene included a fatality, Larrissa Ingram, a college student from a well-respected family.
Initially misidentified by Police Chief Quinn Harrington at the scene, the sparks of romance hit the Police Chief upon introduction to Sadie. Though strong-willed and opinionated, she is an accurate fire investigator–and that special someone whom Quinn hadn’t met since the loss of his wife. However, her first impression of Quinn was that he was a klutz. Sadie’s wit and ability to banter back and forth with Quinn makes for a fun read amidst the tragedy.
As a forensics show enthusiast, I found that Anne Patrick, in her book, Fire and Ash, goes into great, minute detail of the fire investigation, that puts you on the scent of a perpetrator. Her unique ability to incorporate multiple plots to throw you off course makes the pages fly by to connect the dots. The suspense builds as Sadie’s life is endangered. Someone wants her quieted, but who?
The scenes are what I would expect in a fire investigation–dangerous, thorough and highly accurate. The personal interaction with those involved with the investigation are incorporated well and very real. The suspense and physical danger, along with the smoking romance, add the great touches to this novel to keep you intrigued. Though I found the romance a bit hasty, I am well aware that many people can and do find their life mate in a very short time period.
The relationship between Sadie and her uncle and aunt’s family was touching, personal and delightful. Faith and trust in God flow through the pages, but their relationship with Him comes natural in their lives, except for Sadie.
This is definitely a book I’d recommend for those who thrive on mystery and suspense, with a simmering of romance!
This book was provided by Anne Patrick in exchange for my honest review. No monetary compensation was exchanged for my review.
July 30, 2011
Fire and Ash by Anne Patrick published in July 2010 by Desert Breeze Publishing, Inc. is an award-winning inspirational with a message of faith along with suspense that weaves research about fires realistically. Sadie McGregor teams up with Police Chief Quinn Harrington to investigate a fire that took the life of a local college student in her hometown, Emerald Point, Missouri.
Sadie lost her own family to a fire when she was only seven and has lived with the guilt of causing it. Now, she sifts through the ashes of her own life and tries to make sense of it, since she believes in God, but she doesn't feel she deserves His love and forgiveness. Quinn hopes his own belief and faith message will help her change her mind, because he knows only God can heal her heart and fill that void, but will it happen in time to save their relationship? From politicians to judges, the community is rocked when Sadie puts her own life on the line to find who murdered the girl and tried to cover it up with a fire.
Several young men were interested in Sadie. Can Quinn compete? Can he control his jealousy when it comes to her former boyfriends, especially when one is a rich, handsome politician and one owns a mansion. How can he, a small-town police chief, even compete? Learn about how fires are investigated while you enjoy the twists and turns of this novel and see if you can figure out who the killer is. You might find yourself holding your own breath, but not from smoke and fire. And, if you're a classic car lover, there's a yellow bug and a mustang. The author intermingles a fine tale woven with educational fire research so it doesn't jerk the reader from the story. You'll fall in love with Sadie and Quinn.
Sadie lost her own family to a fire when she was only seven and has lived with the guilt of causing it. Now, she sifts through the ashes of her own life and tries to make sense of it, since she believes in God, but she doesn't feel she deserves His love and forgiveness. Quinn hopes his own belief and faith message will help her change her mind, because he knows only God can heal her heart and fill that void, but will it happen in time to save their relationship? From politicians to judges, the community is rocked when Sadie puts her own life on the line to find who murdered the girl and tried to cover it up with a fire.
Several young men were interested in Sadie. Can Quinn compete? Can he control his jealousy when it comes to her former boyfriends, especially when one is a rich, handsome politician and one owns a mansion. How can he, a small-town police chief, even compete? Learn about how fires are investigated while you enjoy the twists and turns of this novel and see if you can figure out who the killer is. You might find yourself holding your own breath, but not from smoke and fire. And, if you're a classic car lover, there's a yellow bug and a mustang. The author intermingles a fine tale woven with educational fire research so it doesn't jerk the reader from the story. You'll fall in love with Sadie and Quinn.
December 14, 2010
Fire investigator, Sadie McGregor, meets Police Chief, Quinn Harrington, during the investigation of a suspicious fire that claimed the life of a local college student. When evidence suggests the son of a respected citizen may be involved, small town politics come into play. Neither Sadie nor Quinn realizes just how dangerous that can be.
This is a book that people will enjoy even if they don't typically read Inspirational fiction. The elements of suspense, romance and faith intertwine effortlessly. I was never pulled away from the story as the characters expressed their personal faith, nor did I feel like it was an afterthought. It just played beautifully into the development of the characters and story.
On that note, it's clear that Ms. Patrick took great care in her research of personality and profession for both Sadie and Quinn. Each character was unique, likable and believable. Together they complimented each other quite well
I appreciated that Sadie was a strong and independent heroine, and yet, still very much a girl; and that Quinn, was a sensitive, masculine guy's guy, who liked dogs and wasn't ashamed to drive his girlfriend's yellow VW bug. That's secure!
So once again, I find myself applauding Ms. Patrick on her ability to weave elements together in perfect balance, and with a twist as well. Fire and Ash was a completely refreshing story, that also made me crave lemonade. If you want to understand that last comment, then you'll have to read the book.
This is a book that people will enjoy even if they don't typically read Inspirational fiction. The elements of suspense, romance and faith intertwine effortlessly. I was never pulled away from the story as the characters expressed their personal faith, nor did I feel like it was an afterthought. It just played beautifully into the development of the characters and story.
On that note, it's clear that Ms. Patrick took great care in her research of personality and profession for both Sadie and Quinn. Each character was unique, likable and believable. Together they complimented each other quite well
I appreciated that Sadie was a strong and independent heroine, and yet, still very much a girl; and that Quinn, was a sensitive, masculine guy's guy, who liked dogs and wasn't ashamed to drive his girlfriend's yellow VW bug. That's secure!
So once again, I find myself applauding Ms. Patrick on her ability to weave elements together in perfect balance, and with a twist as well. Fire and Ash was a completely refreshing story, that also made me crave lemonade. If you want to understand that last comment, then you'll have to read the book.
January 13, 2012
Sadie hasn’t been to her hometown of Emerald Springs in quite some time. When she’s called in to investigate a recent fire, she plans to get in, get the job done, and get back to life in Jefferson City.
Unfortunately, things are a bit more complicated than that, and she’s drawn into the investigation of arson with a murder. It appears the girl’s boyfriend is to blame, but he seems to have taken off. As the investigation deepens, Sadie’s own life is put in danger.
But she has a hero, one she’s not certain she wants to allow into her life and her past, at first. Quinn must overcome several obstacles in order to win Sadie’s heart. Will he win her hand, too?
I enjoyed reading Fire and Ash by Anne Patrick. Romance is woven throughout the investigation of an arson/murder case. Although the story isn’t heart pounding with suspense, Anne kept me guessing who the bad guy was until almost the end of the book. Quinn is a gentleman, and Sadie would have been out of her mind not to fall for him. I appreciated Anne’s writing as Sadie had her own issues to deal with, and she dealt with them honestly. Forgiving oneself is sometimes the most difficult thing to do. Sadie’s story is believable and touching.
The tone is sweet and the story maintains it throughout the book. I prefer my reading to be a little faster paced and a little more heart-pounding, but I did enjoy Fire and Ash.
Unfortunately, things are a bit more complicated than that, and she’s drawn into the investigation of arson with a murder. It appears the girl’s boyfriend is to blame, but he seems to have taken off. As the investigation deepens, Sadie’s own life is put in danger.
But she has a hero, one she’s not certain she wants to allow into her life and her past, at first. Quinn must overcome several obstacles in order to win Sadie’s heart. Will he win her hand, too?
I enjoyed reading Fire and Ash by Anne Patrick. Romance is woven throughout the investigation of an arson/murder case. Although the story isn’t heart pounding with suspense, Anne kept me guessing who the bad guy was until almost the end of the book. Quinn is a gentleman, and Sadie would have been out of her mind not to fall for him. I appreciated Anne’s writing as Sadie had her own issues to deal with, and she dealt with them honestly. Forgiving oneself is sometimes the most difficult thing to do. Sadie’s story is believable and touching.
The tone is sweet and the story maintains it throughout the book. I prefer my reading to be a little faster paced and a little more heart-pounding, but I did enjoy Fire and Ash.
December 21, 2010
Fire and Ash is a wonderful book. The best I've read in a while! I love Anne Patrick's writing style and the way she draws you into the story with well-rounded and loveable characters. This is one of those books you won't want to put down until the end and even when you're finished you can't stop thinking about it. Way to go, Anne!
April 13, 2014
Syrupy sweet and simplistically religious.
Read
February 14, 2018Not bad ...kind of a fun read. At least I read the whole thing and didn't delete it like I do sometimes
November 26, 2010
Clare's Review
Unable to carry on a fire-fighter after being injured on the job, Sadie throws herself into her job as a fire investigation officer with a passion. Her latest case is a little too close to home, the town she grew up in and where her family still live to be precise. No one is going to get in her way, especially not the new and reportedly chauvinistic Chief of Police.
At first sight Quinn takes the fire-fighter in the burned out building to be a man. Only when she turns does he realise his mistake. When she calls the fire arson, he finds himself embroiled in a case that could end up costing him his career.
Ms. Patrick weaves an amazing story that plunges you into page after page of action. Each step of the arson investigation is meticulously detailed as Sadie and Quinn search for the truth. Along the way, they both put the pain of the past behind them. Quinn is a widower and a Christian. Sadie lost her entire family in a fire when she was a child. As Quinn falls for her, he wants to show her that God has a plan for her life and loves her.
A wonderful read, this book had me laughing and crying. True to life characters and vivid descriptions, along with comedy and heart stopping moments, make this a page turner you'll want to read again.
5 Tea Cups!
Unable to carry on a fire-fighter after being injured on the job, Sadie throws herself into her job as a fire investigation officer with a passion. Her latest case is a little too close to home, the town she grew up in and where her family still live to be precise. No one is going to get in her way, especially not the new and reportedly chauvinistic Chief of Police.
At first sight Quinn takes the fire-fighter in the burned out building to be a man. Only when she turns does he realise his mistake. When she calls the fire arson, he finds himself embroiled in a case that could end up costing him his career.
Ms. Patrick weaves an amazing story that plunges you into page after page of action. Each step of the arson investigation is meticulously detailed as Sadie and Quinn search for the truth. Along the way, they both put the pain of the past behind them. Quinn is a widower and a Christian. Sadie lost her entire family in a fire when she was a child. As Quinn falls for her, he wants to show her that God has a plan for her life and loves her.
A wonderful read, this book had me laughing and crying. True to life characters and vivid descriptions, along with comedy and heart stopping moments, make this a page turner you'll want to read again.
5 Tea Cups!
January 22, 2011
I have never read anything by Anne Patrick before. I hate to admit I've never known about her or her books. Imagine my surprise when asked to review this read, that I could not put down. I had a feeling I was going to like it, but you can never tell.
Sadie is a remarkable character who I wanted to know more about. She is called to her home town to investigate a fire that killed a collage student. Sadie has not been home in a while for reasons she keeps to herself. She meets the Chief of Police Quinn, who comes across as a klutz. They both help each other on this case. Sadie's Uncle Joe is the Fire Chief of the small town. As they work together you can't help, but laugh along the way at some of the crazy things that happen with the Quinn and Sadie.
There are most twists and angles to keep you guessing till the end of the book. All the characters are well done. Sadie's family even makes you, the reader, feel like part of the family. I wanted to know more. I do hope there will be another book with these characters in it. I would love to see what happens next.
Sadie is a remarkable character who I wanted to know more about. She is called to her home town to investigate a fire that killed a collage student. Sadie has not been home in a while for reasons she keeps to herself. She meets the Chief of Police Quinn, who comes across as a klutz. They both help each other on this case. Sadie's Uncle Joe is the Fire Chief of the small town. As they work together you can't help, but laugh along the way at some of the crazy things that happen with the Quinn and Sadie.
There are most twists and angles to keep you guessing till the end of the book. All the characters are well done. Sadie's family even makes you, the reader, feel like part of the family. I wanted to know more. I do hope there will be another book with these characters in it. I would love to see what happens next.
February 4, 2014
Its full of romance, suspense and mystery: One you don’t want to miss reading about!!!!!
I’ll hope by not telling you what this story is about you’ll be eager to read it on your own. Believe you me; afterwards, you will recommend others to discover its glory. But I will divulge the setting takes place in Emerald Point, Missouri. If you’ve not been there, you will feel as if you have after reading.
A riveting story you’re bound to enjoy. The author does a superb job in presenting an in-depth and colorful picture of the characters; the storyline; the scene itself (crime and otherwise). As the story unfolds, its descriptive elements will actually have you visualizing every detailed moment; whereas, one may even smell the lingering smoke. For sure its title fits the story. It’s apparent the author took her time in researching her works before presenting it to her audience. What a way to go Anne – Great Job as usual!!!! This is one to talk about for years to come.
June 18, 2016
Anne Patrick hits it out of the park again. There is something about her suspense novels that I just love. This one brings us Sadie and Quinn, investigating a fire together. Sadie is laced with guilt over the death of her family from a childhood fire, which has plagued her life. Quinn is a widower, who has found his solace with God and is hoping his faith can help Sadie. Through their trials of finding the culprit of the arson, they overcome their hurdles. It is inspiring, interesting, romantic and all around entertaining.
Leonor A Woodworth narrates for Anne Patrick with an incredible performance. Her voice is soothing, emotional, loving, scared...making you feel each part of the book as if you are watching a movie. A definite great listen!
-This audiobook was given to me in exchange for an honest review.
Leonor A Woodworth narrates for Anne Patrick with an incredible performance. Her voice is soothing, emotional, loving, scared...making you feel each part of the book as if you are watching a movie. A definite great listen!
-This audiobook was given to me in exchange for an honest review.
June 21, 2019
** Review of Audio Format **
Positive Vibes
From a horrible childhood tragedy and the resulting guilt, a young woman has suffered several setbacks in her quest to make it right. Sadie is forced to reconcile that tragedy as she returns to Emerald Point, Missouri to investigate a suspicious fire. This is where she grew up. She knows these people. These people love her. But after learning the truth, Sadie can’t stand to be there.
Quinn is the new police chief who lost his wife and decided to make a change and try small town life. He falls in love with Sadie at first sight but can’t reconcile her sweet nature and solidly religious family with her refusal of all things God. Can he help Sadie return to God so they can be together?
This book is more than a little sappy but I enjoyed it all the same. Sadie is a truly good person and Quinn is just about a saint. Sadie’s family is funny, too, so it is a good mix of humor and the serious subjects of religion and survivor’s guilt. Worth a read if you are searching for some positive vibes or just a feel good story. There is good character development and a depth that has merit.
In addition, the narration by Leonor Woodworth is well done. She manages to do a lot of voices in a unique and separate way so you never get lost on who is speaking and she really brought Sadie to life. I listened on 1.5 speed.
I received this book through Audiobook Boom! in exchange for an honest review.
Positive Vibes
From a horrible childhood tragedy and the resulting guilt, a young woman has suffered several setbacks in her quest to make it right. Sadie is forced to reconcile that tragedy as she returns to Emerald Point, Missouri to investigate a suspicious fire. This is where she grew up. She knows these people. These people love her. But after learning the truth, Sadie can’t stand to be there.
Quinn is the new police chief who lost his wife and decided to make a change and try small town life. He falls in love with Sadie at first sight but can’t reconcile her sweet nature and solidly religious family with her refusal of all things God. Can he help Sadie return to God so they can be together?
This book is more than a little sappy but I enjoyed it all the same. Sadie is a truly good person and Quinn is just about a saint. Sadie’s family is funny, too, so it is a good mix of humor and the serious subjects of religion and survivor’s guilt. Worth a read if you are searching for some positive vibes or just a feel good story. There is good character development and a depth that has merit.
In addition, the narration by Leonor Woodworth is well done. She manages to do a lot of voices in a unique and separate way so you never get lost on who is speaking and she really brought Sadie to life. I listened on 1.5 speed.
I received this book through Audiobook Boom! in exchange for an honest review.
January 23, 2018
I obtained this free e-book from Amazon and I am voluntarily writing a review. Sadie as a child is the lone survivor of a house fire that killed her entire family. Now as an adult she works as a state investigator for the fire department with a specialty in arson. She is in her home town investigating an arson that was used to cover the murder of a young woman. She is working closely with the new Chief of Police Quinn to find the person responsible for murder and arson.
October 16, 2017
A very good read.
Since my son is a firefighter I was drawn to this title as a way of possibly seeing his world a little better. I was not disappointed. A very good read with just enough sappy romance to make it interesting.
Since my son is a firefighter I was drawn to this title as a way of possibly seeing his world a little better. I was not disappointed. A very good read with just enough sappy romance to make it interesting.
January 24, 2018
Free ebook
She’s a firefighter turned fire investigator due to and accident, he’s the new chief of police. Sparks are there right away but they have to go through an investigative and some heartache before they can be wed.
She’s a firefighter turned fire investigator due to and accident, he’s the new chief of police. Sparks are there right away but they have to go through an investigative and some heartache before they can be wed.
February 6, 2018
New to me author
This is the first book of Anne Patrick’s I have read, but it won’t be the last! It had a good balance of suspense and romance and a generous dollop of a great family storyline! Excellent read, and I look forward to reading more from Ms. Patrick.
This is the first book of Anne Patrick’s I have read, but it won’t be the last! It had a good balance of suspense and romance and a generous dollop of a great family storyline! Excellent read, and I look forward to reading more from Ms. Patrick.
February 19, 2018
Stayingfocud
Enjoyed the book very much. Almost didn't finish reading fro the start because I wasn't sure it was going to keep my interest. I continued to read and didn't want to put it down.
Enjoyed the book very much. Almost didn't finish reading fro the start because I wasn't sure it was going to keep my interest. I continued to read and didn't want to put it down.
May 18, 2019
Not understanding
Not understanding why God allows bad things to happen to us were the stage for a lot of grief. I loved that this story was leading Sadie back to God. I would encourage people to read this book!
Not understanding why God allows bad things to happen to us were the stage for a lot of grief. I loved that this story was leading Sadie back to God. I would encourage people to read this book!
August 7, 2019
What a wonderful book about the way Sadie found her way back to God after getting attacked while doing follow-up on her vey dangerous job. Emphasized the importance of fire inspectors, fire fighters and how she was so good because she had done both.
August 27, 2020
Love, mystery, murder and a happy ending
Like most love stories, the couple come into the story early. She is investigating a fire as fire marshal. He is a police officer because a woman died on the fire. Interesting situation leading them to the killer.
Like most love stories, the couple come into the story early. She is investigating a fire as fire marshal. He is a police officer because a woman died on the fire. Interesting situation leading them to the killer.
December 5, 2020
Well written
Perfect book for someone who loves good, clean, faith based stories.
I liked the way Sadie and Quinn worked to solve a very serious series of crimes.
From heartbreaking story of Sadie’s family to joyous ending.
Perfect book for someone who loves good, clean, faith based stories.
I liked the way Sadie and Quinn worked to solve a very serious series of crimes.
From heartbreaking story of Sadie’s family to joyous ending.
June 8, 2022
Tribute to firefighters and investigators
Beautiful love story, it was full of suspense, presented the gospel by gently sharing GOD’s love! It kept me wanting to read the next page!
Beautiful love story, it was full of suspense, presented the gospel by gently sharing GOD’s love! It kept me wanting to read the next page!
August 31, 2023
WOW!
Non stop action from amazing characters. The story is believable, detailed and riveting. I enjoyed everything about this story and will definitely be recommending it to family and friends.
Non stop action from amazing characters. The story is believable, detailed and riveting. I enjoyed everything about this story and will definitely be recommending it to family and friends.
January 23, 2018
Enjoyed this book
Kept my attention from beginning to end. Like the characters very much. Sadie kept me laughing along with the mystery.
Kept my attention from beginning to end. Like the characters very much. Sadie kept me laughing along with the mystery.
January 25, 2018
What Sadie and Police Chief Quinn Harrington discover will not only affect those close to them, but will rock the entire community of Emerald Point and put Sadie's life on the line.
February 20, 2018
This very good book. About love and murder. I would recommend it.
August 27, 2020
Great plot, deep characters, and a strong faith message make this story superb. I found a few minor typos, but they didn't detract from my reading pleasure. I will look for more books by this author.
September 4, 2020
I loved it. Nuff Said.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews