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Wildwood #1
Ignite
Weston Gallagher is falling hard-for the wrong woman.
One night of passion has haunted him for years.
Now he’s got a second chance to get the girl of his dreams…but there’s just one problem:
She hates him.
Eight years after he stormed out of Wildwood, California, West has returned to his hometown as a firefighter. His friends and family are thrilled he’s back-with the exception of Harper Hill. His best friend’s sister is all grown up and in all the right ways. He knows she’s going to do everything she can to protect her heart and keep him at arm’s length, but West has other ideas.
He will win the girl that got away. No matter what it takes…
One night of passion has haunted him for years.
Now he’s got a second chance to get the girl of his dreams…but there’s just one problem:
She hates him.
Eight years after he stormed out of Wildwood, California, West has returned to his hometown as a firefighter. His friends and family are thrilled he’s back-with the exception of Harper Hill. His best friend’s sister is all grown up and in all the right ways. He knows she’s going to do everything she can to protect her heart and keep him at arm’s length, but West has other ideas.
He will win the girl that got away. No matter what it takes…
285 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 15, 2016
118 people are currently reading
975 people want to read
About the author
Karen Erickson
98 books1,436 followersUSA Today bestselling author Karen Erickson lives in central California with her family. Being a romance writer and bringing her characters to life is her greatest dream come true.
She also writes as NYT & USA Today bestselling author Monica Murphy.
Sign up for Karen's newsletter!
https://www.karenerickson.com/newsletter
She also writes as NYT & USA Today bestselling author Monica Murphy.
Sign up for Karen's newsletter!
https://www.karenerickson.com/newsletter
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 100 reviews
April 23, 2017
Hands on hips…blah…blah…blah…LOVE.
Ignite missed the mark for me. I didn’t hate it, but I really didn’t love it either. Maybe I’m getting finicky in my old age, but I just wanted more. Considering the main characters were 28 and 26 they were REALLY immature. Seriously, the heroine, Harper, was hung up on her best friends brother for YEARS because he made out with her when she was younger. I could MAYBE get it if he’d taken her V card…but they just kissed. He left town without saying goodbye. My first thoughts -
You guessed it…she didn’t hear my warning. The hero, West, comes back to town, she acts all snooty for 5 seconds and forgives him.
I read the rest, but to be honest, I wasn’t sucked in. I was just observing a relationship that was superficial. She has loved him for years and he has an epiphany when he thinks she’s at risk.
There isn’t anything wrong with Ignite, it just didn’t work for me. It was too formulaic and ordinary to suck me in. I laughed when I was supposed to, read the sex scenes with a little interest... instead of wishing, dreaming or hoping I could take her place and I was content that he woke up to himself…soon enough.
If you’re looking for a light-hearted, small town romance then Ignite might be perfect for you.
I received a complimentary ARC of Ignite for an honest review.
Ignite missed the mark for me. I didn’t hate it, but I really didn’t love it either. Maybe I’m getting finicky in my old age, but I just wanted more. Considering the main characters were 28 and 26 they were REALLY immature. Seriously, the heroine, Harper, was hung up on her best friends brother for YEARS because he made out with her when she was younger. I could MAYBE get it if he’d taken her V card…but they just kissed. He left town without saying goodbye. My first thoughts -
WARNING, WARNING, WARNING –
You have made out with an immature jerk, it is time to move on, learn your lesson and never have romantic feeling for him again.
WARNING, WARNING, WARNING!!
You guessed it…she didn’t hear my warning. The hero, West, comes back to town, she acts all snooty for 5 seconds and forgives him.
I read the rest, but to be honest, I wasn’t sucked in. I was just observing a relationship that was superficial. She has loved him for years and he has an epiphany when he thinks she’s at risk.
There isn’t anything wrong with Ignite, it just didn’t work for me. It was too formulaic and ordinary to suck me in. I laughed when I was supposed to, read the sex scenes with a little interest... instead of wishing, dreaming or hoping I could take her place and I was content that he woke up to himself…soon enough.
If you’re looking for a light-hearted, small town romance then Ignite might be perfect for you.
I received a complimentary ARC of Ignite for an honest review.
March 30, 2016
“I’ve had a thing for you for too damn long, Harper. Always
wondered what it would be like if you were mine.”
One night, years ago bad boy Weston Gallagher gave good girl Harper Hill the kiss of her life. Come the morning, he was gone. Now, twenty eight, his promotion has brought him back to his hometown of Wildwood. It's a good thing he didn't expect an open arms welcome, because Harper doesn't give him one.
As much as she'd like to deny it, Harper Hill has been hung up on Weston for as long as she can remember. As her best friends older brother, the kisses they shared that night have been a secret she
could not share, along with the hurt of his disappearing act.
I was looking forward to a delicious amount of angst and conflict but sadly for me, her hostility towards him almost immediately fizzled. There were however great moments of steam to keep me happy. IGINTE is a light hearted, drama free read with enough firefighters to shake a hose at.
*ARC provided in exchange for an honest review for Relentless Romance
July 26, 2016
First, hot firemen! That right there was the big draw for me to read this story. And I'm not sorry I did. I enjoyed Weston and Harper's story and getting to see them move past old hurts. They had some great chemistry near the end of the book and it was great to see these too finally together after being apart for so long. I also liked the secondary characters, especially Harper's grandma who had more of a social life than Harper.
While I did enjoy the overall story, there was just something missing from it. I can't quite put my finger on what it was, but I just kept waiting for something bigger to happen. A lot of the story seemed to be the characters' day to day lives so after awhile it just got old. Overall, a good start to this series, but not the most interesting for me.
March 10, 2016
*arc provided for honest review*
I really wanted to love this one but it fell flat.
When I look at this cover I think bad ass alpha, and the reality of it was the opposite for me.
Harper is living what she thinks is the perfect life in her hometown. When West comes back into town everything changes. My issue was everything changed too quick. It was a bit too cookie cutter of a recipe. I wanted her to have a back bone and some grit. Sadly none of those showed to me.
I actually liked West more then Harper, which is rare for me.
If you like sweet and a bit cheesy then this one is for you.
I really wanted to love this one but it fell flat.
When I look at this cover I think bad ass alpha, and the reality of it was the opposite for me.
Harper is living what she thinks is the perfect life in her hometown. When West comes back into town everything changes. My issue was everything changed too quick. It was a bit too cookie cutter of a recipe. I wanted her to have a back bone and some grit. Sadly none of those showed to me.
I actually liked West more then Harper, which is rare for me.
If you like sweet and a bit cheesy then this one is for you.
March 16, 2016
I lost respect for the heroine after a certain point when she didn't make the hero grovel...at all. After he left town without one word to her, she deserved some MAJOR groveling and ass kissing when he came back. Instead, she was chasing after him. *sigh* I can be picky about my heroines.
It was just moving too slow when it comes down to it. I felt like I kept reading waiting for some big conflict to pop up, something to really hook me, and I'm not getting there. It's not that this book was horrible, I just could not click with it.
It was just moving too slow when it comes down to it. I felt like I kept reading waiting for some big conflict to pop up, something to really hook me, and I'm not getting there. It's not that this book was horrible, I just could not click with it.
March 19, 2016
Loved This! First in a series and this one focuses on West and Harper. He is a firefighter who has returned to his hometown and Harper is his younger Sister's best friend who always had a crush on him. They had a brief encounter years ago and then he left town the next morning without saying goodbye. These two reconnect and their chemistry is hot. Great secondary characters, gorgeous ending and an intriguing theme running through the story and leading into the next book.
Really Enjoyed this story.
Really Enjoyed this story.
July 20, 2017
Originally posted at Booklovers For Life
I love a good man-in-uniform romance, and I also love the older brother’s best friend trope, so Ignite was right up my alley! This book surprisingly turned out to be more sweet than anything, so if you love light-hearted, small-town, drama-free reads, this is for you!
One night eight years ago, West and Harper shared the best kiss of their lives – but then West hightailed it out of town the next day, leaving Harper brokenhearted and bitter. West has never felt like he belonged in Wildwood, but now he’s back as a mature, hard worker and sexy firefighter… and the first person he sees would be the girl he left behind.
Harper has always been the good girl of their town, but seeing West again seems to bring out the worst in her. With him, she’s a little rude, blunt, emotional, but most of all, she’s passionate. She’s currently in a relationship with a steady guy, but what she feels for him has nothing on the feelings she holds for West. So she has to decide whether to take a leap of faith on West, the boy-turned-man who’s always had her heart, or continue a safe life with no passion.
I really enjoyed this book. It was sexy, fun, and uncomplicated. It’s a little slow in the beginning, but once West makes the decision to fight for Harper and what they have, the pace becomes a lot more enjoyable. Ignite is a wonderful introduction to the Wildwood series, and I definitely recommend it to those who want something fun to pass the time.
I’m actually SUPER excited for the next book now, which features West’s brother Lane and Harper’s friend Delilah! You get a little glimpse of how these two characters interact in Ignite, and to say I’m intrigued is an understatement. I can’t wait for their book to release!
Thanks to the publisher for generously providing me an ARC to review.
Quotes are taken from the ARC and are subject to change in the final version.
Amazon Ebook: http://amzn.to/1JCxDlx
Liked this review? Subscribe to Booklovers For Life for more!
I love a good man-in-uniform romance, and I also love the older brother’s best friend trope, so Ignite was right up my alley! This book surprisingly turned out to be more sweet than anything, so if you love light-hearted, small-town, drama-free reads, this is for you!
“I’ve had a thing for you for too damn long, Harper. Always wondered what it would be like if you were mine.”
One night eight years ago, West and Harper shared the best kiss of their lives – but then West hightailed it out of town the next day, leaving Harper brokenhearted and bitter. West has never felt like he belonged in Wildwood, but now he’s back as a mature, hard worker and sexy firefighter… and the first person he sees would be the girl he left behind.
Harper has always been the good girl of their town, but seeing West again seems to bring out the worst in her. With him, she’s a little rude, blunt, emotional, but most of all, she’s passionate. She’s currently in a relationship with a steady guy, but what she feels for him has nothing on the feelings she holds for West. So she has to decide whether to take a leap of faith on West, the boy-turned-man who’s always had her heart, or continue a safe life with no passion.
I really enjoyed this book. It was sexy, fun, and uncomplicated. It’s a little slow in the beginning, but once West makes the decision to fight for Harper and what they have, the pace becomes a lot more enjoyable. Ignite is a wonderful introduction to the Wildwood series, and I definitely recommend it to those who want something fun to pass the time.
West was the beloved bad boy who was now doing good. And Harper had always been Wildwood’s good girl—who’d suddenly gone a little bad.
And being bad with West had never felt so good.
I’m actually SUPER excited for the next book now, which features West’s brother Lane and Harper’s friend Delilah! You get a little glimpse of how these two characters interact in Ignite, and to say I’m intrigued is an understatement. I can’t wait for their book to release!
Thanks to the publisher for generously providing me an ARC to review.
Quotes are taken from the ARC and are subject to change in the final version.
Amazon Ebook: http://amzn.to/1JCxDlx
Liked this review? Subscribe to Booklovers For Life for more!
February 28, 2016
Review by Lisa Kane
Weston Gallagher is coming home to the place he never thought he would return-Wildwood, the town he grew up in and couldn't wait to leave. When he left he felt like an outsider; in a town so small everyone knew his business. He lived in the shadow of his father and his brother and he wanted more. It's years later and he's now a hard worker and an excellent firefighter. He's going to prove that he's not the same person who left.
He was back in Wildwood, ready to prove that he wasn't Weston Gallagher, King Troublemaker anymore. He'd changed his wicked ways.
But one of the first people he sees is Harper Hill, his best friend's little sister; the girl he messed with the night before he hightailed it out of town.
He also hadn't planned on hiding in plain sight. He was a grown-ass man. If he wanted to pass by Harper Hill like she didn't exist, he could. But he wasn't that mean. She did exist. And damn she looked good.
Only seeing Weston again brings up all the old insecure feelings in Harper. They shared one night together and then he left without a word. She never heard from him again. So when they meet again after eight years, she's less than polite and let's it be known she couldn't be bothered to see him. Things are going to get awkward because Harper is best friends with Weston's sister Wren.
"Weston Gallagher. I heard a bad rumor that you were coming back to town," Harper sniffed, offering him her best fake smile. The one she didn't use very often because damn it, she was a nice person. Everyone said so. "Looks like it was true."
Harper is living with her boyfriend who also happens to be her boss. Roger was the man in her life now. Weston was just a memory from her past. But she can't help but compare her lack of passion with Roger to the one night she shared with Weston, leading her to make a huge decision.
Are the feelings they once shared, still there for Weston and Harper? Weston has never wanted to make a commitment, but is he willing to this time for Harper? This was a sweet second chance at love story. This is the first in this new series; there are several other members of the Gallagher family waiting to tell their stories about their complicated love lives.
Yes, every time West flashed her that knowing smile, her panties melted. Her heart melted, her resolve melted...he knew just how to affect her. Giving her the right look, touching her in the right way, whispering the right words...
Weston Gallagher is coming home to the place he never thought he would return-Wildwood, the town he grew up in and couldn't wait to leave. When he left he felt like an outsider; in a town so small everyone knew his business. He lived in the shadow of his father and his brother and he wanted more. It's years later and he's now a hard worker and an excellent firefighter. He's going to prove that he's not the same person who left.
He was back in Wildwood, ready to prove that he wasn't Weston Gallagher, King Troublemaker anymore. He'd changed his wicked ways.
But one of the first people he sees is Harper Hill, his best friend's little sister; the girl he messed with the night before he hightailed it out of town.
He also hadn't planned on hiding in plain sight. He was a grown-ass man. If he wanted to pass by Harper Hill like she didn't exist, he could. But he wasn't that mean. She did exist. And damn she looked good.
Only seeing Weston again brings up all the old insecure feelings in Harper. They shared one night together and then he left without a word. She never heard from him again. So when they meet again after eight years, she's less than polite and let's it be known she couldn't be bothered to see him. Things are going to get awkward because Harper is best friends with Weston's sister Wren.
"Weston Gallagher. I heard a bad rumor that you were coming back to town," Harper sniffed, offering him her best fake smile. The one she didn't use very often because damn it, she was a nice person. Everyone said so. "Looks like it was true."
Harper is living with her boyfriend who also happens to be her boss. Roger was the man in her life now. Weston was just a memory from her past. But she can't help but compare her lack of passion with Roger to the one night she shared with Weston, leading her to make a huge decision.
Are the feelings they once shared, still there for Weston and Harper? Weston has never wanted to make a commitment, but is he willing to this time for Harper? This was a sweet second chance at love story. This is the first in this new series; there are several other members of the Gallagher family waiting to tell their stories about their complicated love lives.
Yes, every time West flashed her that knowing smile, her panties melted. Her heart melted, her resolve melted...he knew just how to affect her. Giving her the right look, touching her in the right way, whispering the right words...
August 7, 2016
4/4.5 rating
I really enjoyed this! The author did a great job with the 2nd chance romance main characters, as well as introducing the 2ndary characters for books 2 and 3.
I'm going to buy the rest of the series now!
This has just the right amount of sexy times...not too graphic and over-the-top.
I have a soft spot for firefighter romance. This hit all the high points for me. Yay!
I really enjoyed this! The author did a great job with the 2nd chance romance main characters, as well as introducing the 2ndary characters for books 2 and 3.
I'm going to buy the rest of the series now!
This has just the right amount of sexy times...not too graphic and over-the-top.
I have a soft spot for firefighter romance. This hit all the high points for me. Yay!
March 17, 2016
3.5 stars
ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date March 15, 2016
Weston Gallagher is falling hard-for the wrong woman. One night of passion has haunted him for years. Now he’s got a second chance to get the girl of his dreams…but there’s just one problem:
She hates him.
Eight years after he stormed out of Wildwood, California, West has returned to his hometown as a firefighter. His friends and family are thrilled he’s back-with the exception of Harper Hill. His best friend’s sister is all grown up and in all the right ways. He knows she’s going to do everything she can to protect her heart and keep him at arm’s length, but West has other ideas.
He will win the girl that got away. No matter what it takes…
•••••••••••••
REVIEW: 3.5 stars-- IGNITE is the first installment in Karen Erickson’s contemporary, adult WILDWOOD romance series focusing on the men and women of Wildwood, California but especially the Gallagher family of brothers, and their sister Wren. This is fire fighter Weston Gallagher, and book keeper Harper Hill’s story line.
Told from dual third person perspectives (Harper and Weston) IGNITE follows the rebuilding of a relationship between Harper and Weston. Eight years earlier, following a night of passion with Harper, Weston escaped the small town of Wildwood, California and never looked back. His latest assignment finds Weston back in Wildwood, and falling in the love with the woman whose heart he broke years before. Harper has never forgotten or forgiven West for walking away, and isn’t prepared to fall in love-all over again.
The relationship between West and Harper is one of second chances; a rekindling of a love that was destroyed when West walked out of town without a goodbye or KMA. The rebuilding of the relationship finds our heroine looking towards the future, and never regretting the past. The $ex scenes are intimate and seductive.
The secondary and supporting characters include Harper’s best friends Wren Gallagher and Delilah Moore-Delilah has a thing for Weston’s brother Lane Gallagher but her heart is constantly breaking as Lane refuses to acknowledge there is anything between he and Dee. We are also introduced to the youngest Gallagher brother Holden as well as their fire captain Tate Warren –who has caught the eye of the Gallagher sister.
The world building focuses on the people of Wildwood, California and a series of suspected arson fires sweeping the town. The storyline ends with a happily ever after –for now- while the investigation into the fires is on going. There is still much more story to tell.
IGNITE is a predictable second chance story line; a rebuilding of a relationship that was destroyed by a night of passion followed by an all too quick exit out of town. The premise is enjoyable; the characters are animated although their lack of maturity was not ideal for a romantic adult story line. The romance is a quick build to forgiveness and a happily ever after-for now.
Copy supplied by Edelweiss
www.thereadingcafe.com
ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date March 15, 2016
Weston Gallagher is falling hard-for the wrong woman. One night of passion has haunted him for years. Now he’s got a second chance to get the girl of his dreams…but there’s just one problem:
She hates him.
Eight years after he stormed out of Wildwood, California, West has returned to his hometown as a firefighter. His friends and family are thrilled he’s back-with the exception of Harper Hill. His best friend’s sister is all grown up and in all the right ways. He knows she’s going to do everything she can to protect her heart and keep him at arm’s length, but West has other ideas.
He will win the girl that got away. No matter what it takes…
•••••••••••••
REVIEW: 3.5 stars-- IGNITE is the first installment in Karen Erickson’s contemporary, adult WILDWOOD romance series focusing on the men and women of Wildwood, California but especially the Gallagher family of brothers, and their sister Wren. This is fire fighter Weston Gallagher, and book keeper Harper Hill’s story line.
Told from dual third person perspectives (Harper and Weston) IGNITE follows the rebuilding of a relationship between Harper and Weston. Eight years earlier, following a night of passion with Harper, Weston escaped the small town of Wildwood, California and never looked back. His latest assignment finds Weston back in Wildwood, and falling in the love with the woman whose heart he broke years before. Harper has never forgotten or forgiven West for walking away, and isn’t prepared to fall in love-all over again.
The relationship between West and Harper is one of second chances; a rekindling of a love that was destroyed when West walked out of town without a goodbye or KMA. The rebuilding of the relationship finds our heroine looking towards the future, and never regretting the past. The $ex scenes are intimate and seductive.
The secondary and supporting characters include Harper’s best friends Wren Gallagher and Delilah Moore-Delilah has a thing for Weston’s brother Lane Gallagher but her heart is constantly breaking as Lane refuses to acknowledge there is anything between he and Dee. We are also introduced to the youngest Gallagher brother Holden as well as their fire captain Tate Warren –who has caught the eye of the Gallagher sister.
The world building focuses on the people of Wildwood, California and a series of suspected arson fires sweeping the town. The storyline ends with a happily ever after –for now- while the investigation into the fires is on going. There is still much more story to tell.
IGNITE is a predictable second chance story line; a rebuilding of a relationship that was destroyed by a night of passion followed by an all too quick exit out of town. The premise is enjoyable; the characters are animated although their lack of maturity was not ideal for a romantic adult story line. The romance is a quick build to forgiveness and a happily ever after-for now.
Copy supplied by Edelweiss
www.thereadingcafe.com
May 9, 2016
I really like this book. Some issues were not clearly closed, but the author recognized it so it didn't bother me. I'll certainly read the following books of the series.
A really good read.
Should be 3.5 stars though.
A really good read.
Should be 3.5 stars though.
March 19, 2016
this was such a great sweet story. well written with interesting characters.
August 8, 2016
3.5 stars
I loved West and Harper together. This book was a nice read.
I loved West and Harper together. This book was a nice read.
Read
August 16, 2017
I grabbed this book awhile ago because lots of people raved about it. I'm not sure what I expected, but I thought it would be more...suspenseful? I'm not sure. Ignite is a small town, second chance romance that was a bit boring really.
West bolted out of his tiny hometown the minute he could, but the night before he took off he engaged in a hot make out session with his sister's best friend, Harper. Needless to say when she found out he left town the next day, her pride and heart were battered. Years later, West is back. His plan is to only be back temporarily until he gets a promotion and can move on to bigger and better things. Harper is still living in the town, and after some shake ups in her life, working for her grandmother at the restaurant she owns. West still has the hots for Harper, and I was a little disappointed and how quickly Harper fell for him again. She was rude to him once, then was falling all over him! Have some pride, woman!
West is pretty self centered. He doesn't care that his leaving town hurt his family. He only cares about moving up the ladder and becoming a big wig in the fire fighter world. Harper is lost. She doesn't have a place to live after breaking up with her boyfriend, and since he was also her boss, she doesn't have a job until she starts working for her grandmother. I wanted to like Harper because she is sweet and kind, but she is kind of a doormat. I expected this to be an enemies to lovers but Harper keeps going back to him every time he says or does something stupid! It was maddening.
I almost DNF'ed this book a couple times. Not because it was bad, but because I just didn't care. I think that is almost worse than a bad book. At least a bad book makes me feel something. Ignite made me feel almost nothing. At 50%, I threw in the towel.
POV: 3rd
Tears: no
Trope: small town, second chance, firefighter, best friend's brother
Triggers: none
Series/Standalone: stand alone
Cliffhanger:
HEA:
Until Sage by Aurora Rose Reynolds, Hawke by Sawyer Bennett, Where I belong by J. Daniels...then you will probably like Ignite!
Ignite
March 10, 2016
Weston Gallagher left home eight years ago with the intention of leaving his bad reputation behind, and creating a life for himself outside of the shadow of his father and brother. Since leaving home he has found great success as a firefighter, he enjoys what he does and is quite good at it, which has helped him earn a promotion. A promotion that would land him back in his hometown of Wildwood, and would also require him to face everyone he left behind. He has his reservations about being back in Wildwood again, but things definitely start to look when he runs into Harper Hill. The last time he saw her they shared a very heated night together, and then he just walked away, and left her behind without so much as a goodbye. He knew at the time that he wasn't someone she needed in her life, so he thought walking away was the right thing to do, but after seeing her again and seeing the hurt lingering on her face he is regretting his past decisions. He'd love nothing more than to have the opportunity to right his wrongs, and prove to her that this time around he is a changed man, one that could be worthy of her attention... but she has a boyfriend.
Harper Hill has never really gotten over her crush for her best friends brother Weston, and has often wondered if he's still as good looking as he use to be, and if her ever really cared about her at all. When he left eight years ago he took a little piece of her heart with him, and she has never really found a way to replace it, sure she's dated, but no one has ever had the effect on her that he did. She has heard rumors that he will be returning home to take a job at the fire station, and she has tried to prepare herself for the possibility of running into him again, but when she comes face to face with him in the grocery store every feeling she had for him comes rushing back and is as strong as it ever was... but she tries to fight it. Letting him back in again just isn't an option she is willing to give, he hurt her badly the first go around, and she doesn't think her fragile heart can handle being broken by him again...
From the moment I read the synopsis for the book I knew it was one that I HAD to read, a story that I could really submerse myself into and just enjoy... and I have to say it totally lived up to my expectations, one paragraph into it, and I was in deep!! Weston and Harper pulled me into their world and had me instantly addicted and flying through the pages as fast as I could turn them... once I got started there was no stopping me! Their story was filled with unwavering intensity, smoldering passion, heartfelt emotion, & scorching chemistry, which helped ignite some very hot encounters that had me feeling the flames and in dire need of a fan...or my very own firefighter!! I think it is safe to say Ms. Erickson has a bestseller on her hands with this one, and a real gift for creating stories that tap into your emotions, grab you by the heart, and linger with you long after the last page is turned!
If you like your fairy tales a little on the naughty side and equipped with a smooth talking firefighter who is dedicated to satisfying your every need, then look no further, Weston Gallagher is DEFINITELY your man!!
ARC requested through NetGalley, and kindly provided by Avon Impulse Publishing in exchange for a honest and unbiased review.
Harper Hill has never really gotten over her crush for her best friends brother Weston, and has often wondered if he's still as good looking as he use to be, and if her ever really cared about her at all. When he left eight years ago he took a little piece of her heart with him, and she has never really found a way to replace it, sure she's dated, but no one has ever had the effect on her that he did. She has heard rumors that he will be returning home to take a job at the fire station, and she has tried to prepare herself for the possibility of running into him again, but when she comes face to face with him in the grocery store every feeling she had for him comes rushing back and is as strong as it ever was... but she tries to fight it. Letting him back in again just isn't an option she is willing to give, he hurt her badly the first go around, and she doesn't think her fragile heart can handle being broken by him again...
From the moment I read the synopsis for the book I knew it was one that I HAD to read, a story that I could really submerse myself into and just enjoy... and I have to say it totally lived up to my expectations, one paragraph into it, and I was in deep!! Weston and Harper pulled me into their world and had me instantly addicted and flying through the pages as fast as I could turn them... once I got started there was no stopping me! Their story was filled with unwavering intensity, smoldering passion, heartfelt emotion, & scorching chemistry, which helped ignite some very hot encounters that had me feeling the flames and in dire need of a fan...or my very own firefighter!! I think it is safe to say Ms. Erickson has a bestseller on her hands with this one, and a real gift for creating stories that tap into your emotions, grab you by the heart, and linger with you long after the last page is turned!
If you like your fairy tales a little on the naughty side and equipped with a smooth talking firefighter who is dedicated to satisfying your every need, then look no further, Weston Gallagher is DEFINITELY your man!!
ARC requested through NetGalley, and kindly provided by Avon Impulse Publishing in exchange for a honest and unbiased review.
March 20, 2016
My Thoughts:
Ignite is a sweet, small town romance, about finding a second chance at love. It is the first book in the Wildwood Series, and I was extremely excited to begin this new story by one of my go-t0-authors, Monica Karen Erickson/Monica Murphy. I just love the book cover for Ignite! Talk about sizzling hot!!!
Ignite is the story of Weston "West" Gallagher and Harper Hill, told from their dual points of view. Several years ago, Weston was determined to leave his small town of Wildwood, California. He had a notorious reputation as being the town's bad boy, and was tired of being compared to his father, and older brother; responsible and steadfast, Lane Gallagher.
So when the opportunity arose, he transferred to a different fire station, and left his family, friends, and old life behind to begin anew. However, the night before he left, he spent an amazing night with Harper Hill, his younger sister, Wren Gallagher's, best friend.
Harper was devastated when West left town abruptly without saying goodbye. Now, he's back in town after getting promoted to the Wildwood Fire Department. When Harper see's West at one of the local grocery stores, she is angry, and surprised at the level of feistiness that he brings out in her. West still give's her butterflies in the pit of her stomach, and he thinks that she is a complete knockout. As West sets his sights on Harper, she will have to decide if she should take a risk, and let him in to her heart once again.
The romance between West and Harper started off fairly slow. I was happy when at the half way point, the story took off. I loved the anticipation, and sizzling connection between the two main characters. The end of the story came pretty fast, and I felt like it would have been better if we learned more about West and Harper's "Happily ever after." However, I'm thinking that the reason for this might be because we will get to learn more about Harper and West, through future characters and installments in the series.
Ignite was such a sweet story. I enjoy small town romance, and this one reminded me of various small town romances written by Jill Shalvis and Sarah Morgan. Everybody in the little town of Wildwood, knows each others whole life history, and is in each other's business. Yet, they are all like one very big and close-knit family. I love a sexy man in uniform, and West was drool-worthy, as I pictured him in his firefighter attire. One of my favorite aspects of Ignite, was reading about the friendship between Harper, and her best friend's Wren and Delilah. I also enjoyed getting introduced to hot firefighter captain, Tate Warren, and the strong, and silent, police sheriff, Lane Gallagher.
Ms. Erickson did an excellent job of setting up the characters for future installments in this series, as it's obvious that Delilah and Lane have feelings for one another, and that there's a huge spark between Tate and Wren. I can't wait to read all of these stories!
My Rating:
I give, Ignite, by Karen Erickson, 3 Sweet, Small Town Romance Filled Stars!
*To Read More Book Reviews, Visit http://www.abookishescape.com
Ignite is a sweet, small town romance, about finding a second chance at love. It is the first book in the Wildwood Series, and I was extremely excited to begin this new story by one of my go-t0-authors, Monica Karen Erickson/Monica Murphy. I just love the book cover for Ignite! Talk about sizzling hot!!!
Ignite is the story of Weston "West" Gallagher and Harper Hill, told from their dual points of view. Several years ago, Weston was determined to leave his small town of Wildwood, California. He had a notorious reputation as being the town's bad boy, and was tired of being compared to his father, and older brother; responsible and steadfast, Lane Gallagher.
So when the opportunity arose, he transferred to a different fire station, and left his family, friends, and old life behind to begin anew. However, the night before he left, he spent an amazing night with Harper Hill, his younger sister, Wren Gallagher's, best friend.
Harper was devastated when West left town abruptly without saying goodbye. Now, he's back in town after getting promoted to the Wildwood Fire Department. When Harper see's West at one of the local grocery stores, she is angry, and surprised at the level of feistiness that he brings out in her. West still give's her butterflies in the pit of her stomach, and he thinks that she is a complete knockout. As West sets his sights on Harper, she will have to decide if she should take a risk, and let him in to her heart once again.
The romance between West and Harper started off fairly slow. I was happy when at the half way point, the story took off. I loved the anticipation, and sizzling connection between the two main characters. The end of the story came pretty fast, and I felt like it would have been better if we learned more about West and Harper's "Happily ever after." However, I'm thinking that the reason for this might be because we will get to learn more about Harper and West, through future characters and installments in the series.
Ignite was such a sweet story. I enjoy small town romance, and this one reminded me of various small town romances written by Jill Shalvis and Sarah Morgan. Everybody in the little town of Wildwood, knows each others whole life history, and is in each other's business. Yet, they are all like one very big and close-knit family. I love a sexy man in uniform, and West was drool-worthy, as I pictured him in his firefighter attire. One of my favorite aspects of Ignite, was reading about the friendship between Harper, and her best friend's Wren and Delilah. I also enjoyed getting introduced to hot firefighter captain, Tate Warren, and the strong, and silent, police sheriff, Lane Gallagher.
Ms. Erickson did an excellent job of setting up the characters for future installments in this series, as it's obvious that Delilah and Lane have feelings for one another, and that there's a huge spark between Tate and Wren. I can't wait to read all of these stories!
My Rating:
I give, Ignite, by Karen Erickson, 3 Sweet, Small Town Romance Filled Stars!
*To Read More Book Reviews, Visit http://www.abookishescape.com
March 14, 2016
What can I say Karen Erickson aka Monica Murphy has done it again. Ignite is a sure-fire hit, high-octane romance and a tantalising mystery ;) Ignite keeps the heat coming in more ways than one. Puns totally intended.
Told in third person narrative with alternating focus between Weston and Harper. Both having a secret crush on the other for most of their younger years, although Weston constantly felt as if Harper was too good for him. Giving in to his desires for one kiss filled evening before leaving town has done nothing but keep the flame of desire burning through all the years he hasn't been back to his home town.
Weston is what I would classify as a typical middle child, living in the shadow of his brothers and his legendary father. He felt as if he had no option but to leave his home in order to make a career for himself as a firefighter, only promotion has brought him back to the place he thought he would never see again. Weston's issues with his father aren't fully divulged but sprinkled through the narrative in a breadcrumb trail, they do however, play an important part in understanding West's thought process and belief or lack thereof in relationships.
Harper, is like walking sunshine, West's sisters best friend and the 'good girl' of their small town. Harper hasn't spread her wings to discover what she wants for herself apart from Weston. Muddling her way through what's expected of her and who she really is under the layers of politeness she wears as armour. Setting caution to the wind in her pursuit of West allows Harper to develop much-needed self-awareness. Embracing the passion she has within her helps Harper breakout of her shell.
West's inner thoughts are utterly adorable and often at odds with the image he presents to the outside world. Via the budding relationship with Harper cracks appear in West's public persona allowing the wonderful person he is to shine through. For so many years he has concentrated on the negatives that his hometown possess; maturity allows him to realise the positives and appreciate the area and people around him.
This is the second book I've read recently with an inspiration grandmother figure in the narrative, completely owning their wacky personalities, I am taking notes ;)
The groundwork has been laid within the pages of Ignite for future stories featuring other couples (I cannot wait) plus I am hoping we get to see much more of Harper and Weston (SWOON). The common thriller/mystery thread to continue as the series progresses adds another dimension of tension to the story as a whole.
The intermingled relationships in small towns is a little unusual and takes time to come to terms with, each character has a previous relationship to one of the other characters - someone's ex, someone's brother, someone's sister - you get the picture.
Ignite is a fantastic start to Karen/Monica's new series, I can't wait for more.
Told in third person narrative with alternating focus between Weston and Harper. Both having a secret crush on the other for most of their younger years, although Weston constantly felt as if Harper was too good for him. Giving in to his desires for one kiss filled evening before leaving town has done nothing but keep the flame of desire burning through all the years he hasn't been back to his home town.
Weston is what I would classify as a typical middle child, living in the shadow of his brothers and his legendary father. He felt as if he had no option but to leave his home in order to make a career for himself as a firefighter, only promotion has brought him back to the place he thought he would never see again. Weston's issues with his father aren't fully divulged but sprinkled through the narrative in a breadcrumb trail, they do however, play an important part in understanding West's thought process and belief or lack thereof in relationships.
Harper, is like walking sunshine, West's sisters best friend and the 'good girl' of their small town. Harper hasn't spread her wings to discover what she wants for herself apart from Weston. Muddling her way through what's expected of her and who she really is under the layers of politeness she wears as armour. Setting caution to the wind in her pursuit of West allows Harper to develop much-needed self-awareness. Embracing the passion she has within her helps Harper breakout of her shell.
West's inner thoughts are utterly adorable and often at odds with the image he presents to the outside world. Via the budding relationship with Harper cracks appear in West's public persona allowing the wonderful person he is to shine through. For so many years he has concentrated on the negatives that his hometown possess; maturity allows him to realise the positives and appreciate the area and people around him.
This is the second book I've read recently with an inspiration grandmother figure in the narrative, completely owning their wacky personalities, I am taking notes ;)
The groundwork has been laid within the pages of Ignite for future stories featuring other couples (I cannot wait) plus I am hoping we get to see much more of Harper and Weston (SWOON). The common thriller/mystery thread to continue as the series progresses adds another dimension of tension to the story as a whole.
The intermingled relationships in small towns is a little unusual and takes time to come to terms with, each character has a previous relationship to one of the other characters - someone's ex, someone's brother, someone's sister - you get the picture.
Ignite is a fantastic start to Karen/Monica's new series, I can't wait for more.
June 15, 2016
**You can see this full review and more at Book Briefs: https://bookbriefs.net**Ignite is the first book in the Wildwood series by Karen Erickson. (P.S. Karen Erickson is author Monica Murphy's alter ego) Ignite is an adult contemporary romance. Each of the books in the series focuses on a different couple, and I am assuming they can be read as a standalone, but I am going to tell you right now, I do not recommend that. I think this series needs to be read in order, and here is why. (it is also something that I love about the series.) While each of the books does focus on a different romance, there is an overarching plot line of an arsonist in the city. We have not even come close to discovering who the arsonist is, so I think readers will benefit from reading the Wildwood books in order. I know I am interested in following not only the romances, but also the arson story line. I am already itching for the next book.
Ignite takes place in a small town, and focuses on Harper and West. Harper has lived in Wildwood for her whole life and she has had a crush on West for just as long. West left town after school suddenly, and had now just as suddenly reappeared, throwing Harper for a loop. West and Harper make a great couple and I really enjoyed their story. It fits great into the kind of drama filled world of new adult contemporary romance. (I should say drama mixed with a genuine dose of heart and chemistry.) Ignite isn't anything completely revolutionary, but it is a very well done romance. And the arson story line adds a good extra level of intrige and excitement that I can't wait to see throughout the series.
I am very, very excited for the next book in the series- Smolder (which I have just seen the cover of, and I LOVE!) It is West's brother Lane's story. And I can already tell from what I have seen of Lane in Ignite- he is going to be a brooding heck of a hero. I want Lane's story right now!
Bottom line: if you like Contemporary romance with great chemistry and a healthy side of heart, and you love the idea of a series long arson plot- the Wildwood series is a great one for you. Check it out. I really enjoyed it.
This review was originally posted on Book Briefs
Ignite takes place in a small town, and focuses on Harper and West. Harper has lived in Wildwood for her whole life and she has had a crush on West for just as long. West left town after school suddenly, and had now just as suddenly reappeared, throwing Harper for a loop. West and Harper make a great couple and I really enjoyed their story. It fits great into the kind of drama filled world of new adult contemporary romance. (I should say drama mixed with a genuine dose of heart and chemistry.) Ignite isn't anything completely revolutionary, but it is a very well done romance. And the arson story line adds a good extra level of intrige and excitement that I can't wait to see throughout the series.
I am very, very excited for the next book in the series- Smolder (which I have just seen the cover of, and I LOVE!) It is West's brother Lane's story. And I can already tell from what I have seen of Lane in Ignite- he is going to be a brooding heck of a hero. I want Lane's story right now!
Bottom line: if you like Contemporary romance with great chemistry and a healthy side of heart, and you love the idea of a series long arson plot- the Wildwood series is a great one for you. Check it out. I really enjoyed it.
This review was originally posted on Book Briefs
February 25, 2017
1.5
I didn't hate it, but boy I didn't like it.
Childish hero, stupid heroine. And at 80% in I had issues with how the firefighting was handled, and the heroine's reactions.
***review copy courtesy of Avon Books
I didn't hate it, but boy I didn't like it.
Childish hero, stupid heroine. And at 80% in I had issues with how the firefighting was handled, and the heroine's reactions.
***review copy courtesy of Avon Books
March 6, 2016
A man in uniform is and always will be downright hot and sexy and everything else offered up in a silver platter for me. Another guy to add on to my list is Weston Gallagher. See, West is a firefighter. And I think he's the first firefighter I've ever read about which makes it so much more interesting. And he sure knows how to get down and dirty—real raw and dirty.
There was no finesse, no prolonging the orgasm or drawing out the act. It was just pure, animalistic . . . fucking.
Harper Hill, surprisingly, fell a bit flat for me. She turned out to be this typical goody-two-shoes with her whole life laid out in front of her—a good career, a safe boyfriend—everything. But then Weston Gallagher, the boy she's been lusting for and pining for over the years ever since she was a kid, just came back to town. All of a sudden, she wanted to be a bit more rebellious—to have that fiery passion with the bad boy sprinkled into her life—causing her to drop all that safety.
I'm a bit sad because I feel like the story itself fell short in my interest and attention scale. It had ample action going on and the chemistry between West and Harper was there, but I wanted so much more from them. I felt like they had could have had something better and deeper going on that could've been said. And then I don't think it helped either that the book was written in third person.
But let me tell you this—I'm still up for reading the upcoming books in the series. For some reason, I wasn't turned completely off by the story of West and Harper falling short. And with how the rest of the Gallagher brothers—Lane and Holden—were introduced in this book, plus Delilah and Wren who are Harper's best girlfriends? Yes, without a doubt, my interest was piqued by a mile high. I want to get to know them more and see how their own stories will play out.
There was no finesse, no prolonging the orgasm or drawing out the act. It was just pure, animalistic . . . fucking.
Harper Hill, surprisingly, fell a bit flat for me. She turned out to be this typical goody-two-shoes with her whole life laid out in front of her—a good career, a safe boyfriend—everything. But then Weston Gallagher, the boy she's been lusting for and pining for over the years ever since she was a kid, just came back to town. All of a sudden, she wanted to be a bit more rebellious—to have that fiery passion with the bad boy sprinkled into her life—causing her to drop all that safety.
I'm a bit sad because I feel like the story itself fell short in my interest and attention scale. It had ample action going on and the chemistry between West and Harper was there, but I wanted so much more from them. I felt like they had could have had something better and deeper going on that could've been said. And then I don't think it helped either that the book was written in third person.
But let me tell you this—I'm still up for reading the upcoming books in the series. For some reason, I wasn't turned completely off by the story of West and Harper falling short. And with how the rest of the Gallagher brothers—Lane and Holden—were introduced in this book, plus Delilah and Wren who are Harper's best girlfriends? Yes, without a doubt, my interest was piqued by a mile high. I want to get to know them more and see how their own stories will play out.
May 6, 2016
Karen Erickson is back with the first book in the new Wildwood series! A fun and sexy book, Ignite had everything that I look forward to when starting a new series. It had Karen's fabulously witty writing, characters to fall in love with, and a story line that left me grinning from ear to ear. Although I don't read nearly as many of Karen's books as I should, I'm always falling in love with her characters. Harper, Weston, and the rest of the gang were well developed, yet Karen still left some mystery in the relationships that we'll get in future books. I adored Harper and West. They were so sweet together. I laughed with them, especially with poor West and his "girlie" moments. I teared up during their not-so-happy moments. And, of course I grinned like a darn fool during their happily in love scenes. I loved that the plot was almost unexpected. Seeing the cover and reading the synopsis, I went into the book thinking it was going to be filled with angst and drama, but I was pleasantly surprised that it was a light, fun book with lots of chemistry and a couple sexy scenes. It was perfect and I can't wait for the next book in the series.
I received an ARC copy in exchange for a honest review.
I received an ARC copy in exchange for a honest review.
May 18, 2016
Hot and steamy read from Karen Erickson. West has finally moved back home after working hard on his career as a firefighter. He's fought hard to move past the bad boy reputation he earned in high school and worked to distinguish himself. But one look at his little sister's best friend, Harper, and he's ready to be bad all over again. Harper has been tempted by West for years and has hidden her desires (except for that one night). She's ready to let her temptations loose and get wild with West. She knows he's not looking for any kind of commitment and after her recent breakup she's ready for a little fun. As their fun heats up both West and Harper realize that their feelings run much deeper. But in a town the size of theirs can outside expectations keep from intruding on their budding romance? A fun, sexy read and a great start to a new series.
May 22, 2016
Awesome!! I loved this story and since it has all my favorite romance reading favs going for I'm not surprised! Small town - check. Second chance story - check. Seriously sexy H - check. Sassy strong h - check (although I do think she let West off the hook a little too easly). Sizzling hot chemistry between them - double check!! Add in some fantastic writing and a story that grabs your heart and you have an amazing read! West may have returned to Wildwood intending to leave again in a couple of years just as he arrived - single and free. That's before he gets one look at the all grown up Harper!! I definitely recommend this one.
July 4, 2016
sebenernya saya suka plotnya, tapi kok ceritanya pendek banget ya?
dan juga suka kalau tokoh cowoknya, West, yang berprofesi sebagai firefighter. yang nggak sukanya adalah sama Harper, si tokoh cewek yang sakit hati karena dulu ditinggal begitu saja sama West, dengan begitu mudahnya memaafkan cowok tersebut. hanya dengan sekali bertemu, gitu lho...
kok dirimu segampang itu sih, Harper?
dan juga belum ada penyelesaian mengenai hubungan West dan ayahnya.
tapi saya menunggu-nunggu bukunya Lane dan Delilah. kayaknya bakal seru nih :)
dan juga suka kalau tokoh cowoknya, West, yang berprofesi sebagai firefighter. yang nggak sukanya adalah sama Harper, si tokoh cewek yang sakit hati karena dulu ditinggal begitu saja sama West, dengan begitu mudahnya memaafkan cowok tersebut. hanya dengan sekali bertemu, gitu lho...
kok dirimu segampang itu sih, Harper?
dan juga belum ada penyelesaian mengenai hubungan West dan ayahnya.
tapi saya menunggu-nunggu bukunya Lane dan Delilah. kayaknya bakal seru nih :)
June 19, 2016
I love sexy firemen and West is no exception. I love him and Harper, who is the quintessential nice girl who has always wanted West, but West didn't think he was the right guy because of things from his past. But when he gives in, things heat up! This is one hot read, and I loved every second of it!
March 13, 2016
3.5 stars
I liked this book. It ended and had me wanting more.
I liked this book. It ended and had me wanting more.
March 12, 2016
I would have liked a little more action, and tension, but overall a good story and I look forward to more. Review to come...
May 23, 2016
Not bad
It was a good read and a good start to the series. I think it was too short but the characters were all good.
It was a good read and a good start to the series. I think it was too short but the characters were all good.
March 16, 2016
4 HOT FIRE FIGHTER STARS (★★★★)
*** Disclaimer: I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review. However, this doesn’t affect my opinion of this book and the words in this review. ***
No one knew that once upon a time, many years ago, on a late summer night under a star-filled sky, he’d kissed Harper Hill for hours. Hours and hours. Long, tongue-filled kisses that had induced wandering hands and sights full of longing.
When I found out Monica Murphy also wrote books under a pseudonym, I was shocked. How could I not know about that? Unsurprisingly, I couldn’t wait to try one of those books, as Monica Murphy is one of my go-to-authors since reading One Week Girlfriend, and Ignite came just at the right time. A light-hearted romance novel that contains a couple of my favorite elements: a forbidden love, a coming-of-age story and a bad boy who also occupies one of the hottest professions. He is a fire fighter.
The look in her eyes had been downright…hungry, which had surprised him. And he’d immediately felt an answering hunger deep inside. One borne of curiosity and familiarity, one he wanted to explore further, even though he knew it was a huge mistake.
Weston Gallagher is back after being gone for a couple years. This firefighter loves his job, because of the thrill and the adrenaline, but he hates being compared to his father. Who was also a firefighter back in the day.
West used to be a real troublemaker and he couldn’t wait until the day he got to leave Wildwood to leave the hell that is his family, especially his father. He just wanted to be anonymous and that is next to impossible in that small town. All he wants is to prove himself, and his father to respect him.
He never planned to come back, but he is back in Wildwood after getting a promotion. It is just a pit stop for him though, until he is back in contact with Harper. The girl he kissed that last day before he left. The girl he had feelings for and tried his hardest to get out of his head. Maybe this time, he does have a reason to stay.
But Harper is forbidden fruit for West, because she is the best friend of his little sister, Wren. Harper is always friendly, but lately she is scared to be boring. She wants to break through the gentle and kind walls she built, but she is afraid. Afraid that people won’t like her anymore.
Secretly, she is longing for more and her current relationship with Roger and her job at his accounting firm isn’t giving her that. She slowly gives in to her urge, especially when her long time crush is back in town. Even though her parents don’t support her, her lovely grandmother does. What a funny one she is. I really loved how supportive she was of Harper.
Harper is still attracted to West, that much is obvious. But can she get past the hurt she felt all those years ago when he left Wildwood without so much as a word or goodbye?
Being with her, listening to her voice, watching her as she nibbled on her lower lip while contemplating paint samples sent a white-hot bolt of lust straight through him. He wanted to touch. Taste. Kiss. Strip.
Ignite is written in the way I’m used to from Monica Murphy (a.k.a. Karen Erickson). Poignant, engaging and filled with all the emotion. It was easy to sympathize with both characters and the main characters are supported by a powerful cast of side characters. West’s brothers and little sister: Lane, Holden and Wren. Harper’s friend, Delilah. I loved how they carried along Harper and West’s story and I can’t wait to read all their stories. I’m especially curious as to what is happening between Lane and Delilah, they are being so mysterious.
It is praiseworthy how Harper dares to choose for another direction in her life. Breaking up her steady relationship, because it isn’t challenging enough for her. Quitting her job, without knowing what is in the future career-wise. For too long, she behaved in the way people expected of her and now, she finally wants to be her real self.
I am utterly crazy about West. He is vulnerable and he isn’t afraid to show it, even though he can sometimes say the complete wrong thing. He really wants to prove himself to everyone who knew him back when he was a fuck-up. Can I have me a boyfriend like Weston Gallagher?
Just hearing her name being said by someone else sent a bolt of sensation straight through his veins. Hearing her voice made his heart race. Having her so close, or worse, having her touch him, however briefly, however meaningless it was…He felt weak–weak with wanting her.
Why not five stars you may ask? I think I set the bar quite high, because I was enchanted by Monica’s One Week Boyfriend series. I expected more drama and more depth in the story. That fell short for me in Ignite. It starts with enough drama, but later on things go a little bit too easy.
Furthermore, I thought the relationships between Harper and West and their parents could have been explored more. The strenuous relationships are mentioned and it explains a part of their behavior, but there are no scenes with their parents and I missed that. It would have given their backstories more shape and substance. So, I loved the story but I couldn’t give it the full five stars.
Each way that he touched her, she wanted to find another way, and yet another way, again and again, in order to keep him keep on touching her.
Hot, sweet and full of new chances. Ignite is about a love that never went away. It is about forgiveness and reinventing yourself. Daring to take chances, even when your supposed most important support group disagrees. Monica Murphy did it again, this time under the name of Karen Erickson. I enjoyed Ignite so much, I can’t wait to read the sequels. Ignite is an absolute must-read!
“You’re mine, Harper. And I’m yours.” He leaned in and kissed her, taking it deep, leaving her breathless. “Nothing’s going to change that.”
This review was originally posted on Chelles Life in Books
*** Disclaimer: I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review. However, this doesn’t affect my opinion of this book and the words in this review. ***
No one knew that once upon a time, many years ago, on a late summer night under a star-filled sky, he’d kissed Harper Hill for hours. Hours and hours. Long, tongue-filled kisses that had induced wandering hands and sights full of longing.
When I found out Monica Murphy also wrote books under a pseudonym, I was shocked. How could I not know about that? Unsurprisingly, I couldn’t wait to try one of those books, as Monica Murphy is one of my go-to-authors since reading One Week Girlfriend, and Ignite came just at the right time. A light-hearted romance novel that contains a couple of my favorite elements: a forbidden love, a coming-of-age story and a bad boy who also occupies one of the hottest professions. He is a fire fighter.
The look in her eyes had been downright…hungry, which had surprised him. And he’d immediately felt an answering hunger deep inside. One borne of curiosity and familiarity, one he wanted to explore further, even though he knew it was a huge mistake.
Weston Gallagher is back after being gone for a couple years. This firefighter loves his job, because of the thrill and the adrenaline, but he hates being compared to his father. Who was also a firefighter back in the day.
West used to be a real troublemaker and he couldn’t wait until the day he got to leave Wildwood to leave the hell that is his family, especially his father. He just wanted to be anonymous and that is next to impossible in that small town. All he wants is to prove himself, and his father to respect him.
He never planned to come back, but he is back in Wildwood after getting a promotion. It is just a pit stop for him though, until he is back in contact with Harper. The girl he kissed that last day before he left. The girl he had feelings for and tried his hardest to get out of his head. Maybe this time, he does have a reason to stay.
But Harper is forbidden fruit for West, because she is the best friend of his little sister, Wren. Harper is always friendly, but lately she is scared to be boring. She wants to break through the gentle and kind walls she built, but she is afraid. Afraid that people won’t like her anymore.
Secretly, she is longing for more and her current relationship with Roger and her job at his accounting firm isn’t giving her that. She slowly gives in to her urge, especially when her long time crush is back in town. Even though her parents don’t support her, her lovely grandmother does. What a funny one she is. I really loved how supportive she was of Harper.
Harper is still attracted to West, that much is obvious. But can she get past the hurt she felt all those years ago when he left Wildwood without so much as a word or goodbye?
Being with her, listening to her voice, watching her as she nibbled on her lower lip while contemplating paint samples sent a white-hot bolt of lust straight through him. He wanted to touch. Taste. Kiss. Strip.
Ignite is written in the way I’m used to from Monica Murphy (a.k.a. Karen Erickson). Poignant, engaging and filled with all the emotion. It was easy to sympathize with both characters and the main characters are supported by a powerful cast of side characters. West’s brothers and little sister: Lane, Holden and Wren. Harper’s friend, Delilah. I loved how they carried along Harper and West’s story and I can’t wait to read all their stories. I’m especially curious as to what is happening between Lane and Delilah, they are being so mysterious.
It is praiseworthy how Harper dares to choose for another direction in her life. Breaking up her steady relationship, because it isn’t challenging enough for her. Quitting her job, without knowing what is in the future career-wise. For too long, she behaved in the way people expected of her and now, she finally wants to be her real self.
I am utterly crazy about West. He is vulnerable and he isn’t afraid to show it, even though he can sometimes say the complete wrong thing. He really wants to prove himself to everyone who knew him back when he was a fuck-up. Can I have me a boyfriend like Weston Gallagher?
Just hearing her name being said by someone else sent a bolt of sensation straight through his veins. Hearing her voice made his heart race. Having her so close, or worse, having her touch him, however briefly, however meaningless it was…He felt weak–weak with wanting her.
Why not five stars you may ask? I think I set the bar quite high, because I was enchanted by Monica’s One Week Boyfriend series. I expected more drama and more depth in the story. That fell short for me in Ignite. It starts with enough drama, but later on things go a little bit too easy.
Furthermore, I thought the relationships between Harper and West and their parents could have been explored more. The strenuous relationships are mentioned and it explains a part of their behavior, but there are no scenes with their parents and I missed that. It would have given their backstories more shape and substance. So, I loved the story but I couldn’t give it the full five stars.
Each way that he touched her, she wanted to find another way, and yet another way, again and again, in order to keep him keep on touching her.
Hot, sweet and full of new chances. Ignite is about a love that never went away. It is about forgiveness and reinventing yourself. Daring to take chances, even when your supposed most important support group disagrees. Monica Murphy did it again, this time under the name of Karen Erickson. I enjoyed Ignite so much, I can’t wait to read the sequels. Ignite is an absolute must-read!
“You’re mine, Harper. And I’m yours.” He leaned in and kissed her, taking it deep, leaving her breathless. “Nothing’s going to change that.”
This review was originally posted on Chelles Life in Books
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