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After the Fire
Paramedic Connor Haus is good at two things—saving lives on the streets of Boston and holding her past against every firefighter she meets. The tragic loss of her partner, Kam, has left her bitter and angry, her work and fellow -EMT Jake O’Harrigan the only pieces of her life she still cares about. Until rookie firefighter Logan Curtis moves to town, and onto Connor’s scene, and threatens to rattle the walls Connor has long since put up.
Hotshot Logan has never had a problem getting women to notice her. But when Connor trips her radar, she realizes Connor may be more than just another notch on her bedpost.
But how could anyone compete with Kam’s memory?
Sometimes, you have to wait until after the fire to see just what’s worth saving.
Hotshot Logan has never had a problem getting women to notice her. But when Connor trips her radar, she realizes Connor may be more than just another notch on her bedpost.
But how could anyone compete with Kam’s memory?
Sometimes, you have to wait until after the fire to see just what’s worth saving.
240 pages, Paperback
First published March 1, 2016
18 people are currently reading
109 people want to read
About the author
Emily Smith
7 books38 followersEmily Smith was born and raised in a small town in New Hampshire, where she started writing at an early age. Her grandmother was a children’s author, and she comes from a family of English teachers. Searching For Forever is Emily’s first full-length novel and first venture into the publishing world. When she isn’t writing, which is rare, Emily works in the medical field. She has been an EMT for years and is currently in school to become a physician assistant. She lives in Boston with her partner, where they try to escape to Provincetown as much as possible.
Librarian note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
Librarian note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
December 27, 2017
Wow! I had to give this 5 stars,coming from me it was that good. I think this author really took her time with this book because the writing was awesome no shortcuts at all,it was just one of those classic romance storyline where the author did this: build up then fall out,break-up then make-up plus very erotic steamy sex scenes,nice Fire Dept and EMT action scenes..no disappointment with the involvement of both leading and supporting characters in this story,enjoyable and mature dialogue between everyone which was spot-on and funny..highly recommend to everyone
June 10, 2017
The plot is not particularly original, neither are the characters, and I had the feeling that I had already seen this story a hundred times. The author takes familiar tropes to create tension between the characters. I have nothing against that, but there's a lot of exaggeration here. The whole plot taking place during a wilderness EMT course is forced and somehow throws the story off from the right direction, as if the author didn't know how else to achieve the story climax.
Otherwise, the book is an okay way to spend a couple of hours -- readable but not re-readable.
2.75 stars
*ARC provided by publisher via NetGalley*
Otherwise, the book is an okay way to spend a couple of hours -- readable but not re-readable.
2.75 stars
*ARC provided by publisher via NetGalley*
March 9, 2016
I am a sucker for books with first responders in leading rolls. Give me a code blue or a fire and I’m in healthcare heaven. I jumped at the chance to read a book about EMT Connor Haus and Boston Firefighter and former EMT Logan Curtis. I was hoping for some great action scenes involving these two MC’s. I read the blurb and knew that Connor would be struggling to move on after losing her partner, Kam and assumed that her frozen and angry heart would thaw and Logan would charm her into giving love another chance. Romance trope securely in place, I was willing to watch these two find their HEA.
The book is written well, the dialogue is snappy and the secondary characters, at least Jake and Logan’s sister Annie flesh out and support our leading ladies. I even liked Logan. She is playing the predictable womanizer who suddenly falls for the unattainable girl of her dreams. My problem with the whole book lies squarely on the angry shoulders of Connor Haus.
Connor has lost the love of her life, her reckless firefighter partner, Kam. It’s been three years. Connor is still angry at every firefighter she meets. They are all reckless. They all take too many chances and risk their lives with little regard for their loved ones. She is angry, bitter and alone. She is also unlikeable. Jake and Laurie stand by her and Jake tries to be her voice of reason but at every scene when the EMT’s meet up with the BFD she is quick to show her scorn for the firefighters she meets. The author is so effective at making Connor an ice queen that when she shows some interest in Logan and looks at her “coyly” (a word used twice in quick succession about 40% into the novel) the reader doesn’t believe anything Logan can do will be enough to win over Connor. It doesn’t help that Logan is physically similar in looks and attitude to Connor’s beloved Kam. It only makes things worse for Logan, not better. Connor is an impenetrable, angry woman who cannot look to the future while she is busy reflecting on her past.
I am all for conflict in a relationship but Kam’s former co-worker Taylor says it best. Connor is damaged goods. Logan would have been wise to stay away. I’m all for building strong characters but in this case the author has drawn a character that the reader no longer cares about. A relationship with Connor has no future. She will always be waiting for a tragedy to occur. She doesn’t grow or change or understand that the risks in loving a firefighter will always exist. Sometimes a character can be such a Debbie Downer that the reader no longer cares if she ever finds her HEA. It made me lose interest in the story and I struggled to finish the novel.
ARC received from Bold Strokes Books via NetGalley for an honest review.
The book is written well, the dialogue is snappy and the secondary characters, at least Jake and Logan’s sister Annie flesh out and support our leading ladies. I even liked Logan. She is playing the predictable womanizer who suddenly falls for the unattainable girl of her dreams. My problem with the whole book lies squarely on the angry shoulders of Connor Haus.
Connor has lost the love of her life, her reckless firefighter partner, Kam. It’s been three years. Connor is still angry at every firefighter she meets. They are all reckless. They all take too many chances and risk their lives with little regard for their loved ones. She is angry, bitter and alone. She is also unlikeable. Jake and Laurie stand by her and Jake tries to be her voice of reason but at every scene when the EMT’s meet up with the BFD she is quick to show her scorn for the firefighters she meets. The author is so effective at making Connor an ice queen that when she shows some interest in Logan and looks at her “coyly” (a word used twice in quick succession about 40% into the novel) the reader doesn’t believe anything Logan can do will be enough to win over Connor. It doesn’t help that Logan is physically similar in looks and attitude to Connor’s beloved Kam. It only makes things worse for Logan, not better. Connor is an impenetrable, angry woman who cannot look to the future while she is busy reflecting on her past.
I am all for conflict in a relationship but Kam’s former co-worker Taylor says it best. Connor is damaged goods. Logan would have been wise to stay away. I’m all for building strong characters but in this case the author has drawn a character that the reader no longer cares about. A relationship with Connor has no future. She will always be waiting for a tragedy to occur. She doesn’t grow or change or understand that the risks in loving a firefighter will always exist. Sometimes a character can be such a Debbie Downer that the reader no longer cares if she ever finds her HEA. It made me lose interest in the story and I struggled to finish the novel.
ARC received from Bold Strokes Books via NetGalley for an honest review.
March 5, 2016
EMT meets firefighter. EMT hates all firefighters, but this one is so hot. Hit the button and let the carousel of emotions begin.
Conner Haus is an experienced EMT who has seen more than her fair share of tragedies. Her life was destroyed when her fiancé Kam, a Boston firefighter, was killed trying to save a child from a burning automobile three years ago. Since Kam’s death, Conner has become cold, distant and is hell bent on hating every firefighter she comes across, old friends included.
Logan Curtis is a rookie. She was a paramedic for ten years, before entering into the fire academy. She loves the danger, the adrenaline rush and helping save lives. She is a hotshot, everything Conner wants no part of, everything like Kam used to be. Attraction be damned.
This book isn’t bad, it just isn’t interesting either. In my opinion it lacks depth, and I had to really push to finish this book. I felt as if I was reading the same thing over and over. Kam is a huge part of the book. Her ghost (not literally) haunts everyday of Conner’s life. I am in no way trivializing losing a spouse, I cannot even begin to imagine the pain, but I had to think Conner is not by any means ready to date again. She is horrible to Logan for 30+% of the book. Then boom, she’s hot, so let’s hookup, then back to bitchy mode. I just couldn’t understand the attraction these two had for each other, it seemed forced and superficial. I just wasn't feeling the love between Conner & Logan. Not bad, just not great.
2.25 stars
Conner Haus is an experienced EMT who has seen more than her fair share of tragedies. Her life was destroyed when her fiancé Kam, a Boston firefighter, was killed trying to save a child from a burning automobile three years ago. Since Kam’s death, Conner has become cold, distant and is hell bent on hating every firefighter she comes across, old friends included.
Logan Curtis is a rookie. She was a paramedic for ten years, before entering into the fire academy. She loves the danger, the adrenaline rush and helping save lives. She is a hotshot, everything Conner wants no part of, everything like Kam used to be. Attraction be damned.
This book isn’t bad, it just isn’t interesting either. In my opinion it lacks depth, and I had to really push to finish this book. I felt as if I was reading the same thing over and over. Kam is a huge part of the book. Her ghost (not literally) haunts everyday of Conner’s life. I am in no way trivializing losing a spouse, I cannot even begin to imagine the pain, but I had to think Conner is not by any means ready to date again. She is horrible to Logan for 30+% of the book. Then boom, she’s hot, so let’s hookup, then back to bitchy mode. I just couldn’t understand the attraction these two had for each other, it seemed forced and superficial. I just wasn't feeling the love between Conner & Logan. Not bad, just not great.
2.25 stars
March 13, 2016
Who doesn’t love a good first responders story – I know I do! After the Fire takes us into the lives of paramedic Connor Haus and firefighter Logan Curtis.
Connor lost her previous partner, Kam, a firefighter, on the job, which left Connor feeling angry and hateful of all things firefighting. As much as Connor wants to freeze out rookie firefighter Logan, who has just moved to town, there’s an undeniable attraction smoldering away under the surface between them.
Whilst the story isn’t overly original, it is well written and I really enjoyed the book and the main characters. I especially liked the detailed scenes of when they were out in the field responding to emergencies.
*ARC provided by publisher via NetGalley*
Connor lost her previous partner, Kam, a firefighter, on the job, which left Connor feeling angry and hateful of all things firefighting. As much as Connor wants to freeze out rookie firefighter Logan, who has just moved to town, there’s an undeniable attraction smoldering away under the surface between them.
Whilst the story isn’t overly original, it is well written and I really enjoyed the book and the main characters. I especially liked the detailed scenes of when they were out in the field responding to emergencies.
*ARC provided by publisher via NetGalley*
March 5, 2016
Detailed score: 2.5
You have read this book before. I daresay you'll read it again - just like stereotypes, cookie cutter romances [lesrom or otherwise] exist for a reason.
IMHO, though, books that go the tried and true route must deliver on the swoon, must make us fall in love with the characters and, unfortunately, After the Fire did not meet this need for me. Our characterisations lacked the depth needed to make them real and relatable. It's not that I didn't like them, rather, I was ambivalent.
I know I haven't discussed much by way of plot but it's because that didn't really engage and/or excite me either.
To be honest, if I was buying this book I would have put it down after the sample and not progressed to buying it. I persisted and tried to give it a fair go, but my review of this book can be summed up by saying it's a well-intentioned meh. :(
You have read this book before. I daresay you'll read it again - just like stereotypes, cookie cutter romances [lesrom or otherwise] exist for a reason.
IMHO, though, books that go the tried and true route must deliver on the swoon, must make us fall in love with the characters and, unfortunately, After the Fire did not meet this need for me. Our characterisations lacked the depth needed to make them real and relatable. It's not that I didn't like them, rather, I was ambivalent.
I know I haven't discussed much by way of plot but it's because that didn't really engage and/or excite me either.
To be honest, if I was buying this book I would have put it down after the sample and not progressed to buying it. I persisted and tried to give it a fair go, but my review of this book can be summed up by saying it's a well-intentioned meh. :(
March 5, 2017
I really wanted to love this book but ended up just liking it...sorta. I will agree with Tiff that Connor was definitely not ready in any shape or form to have the type of relationship that was portrayed in the book. I also, feel that the chemistry between the two characters was...for lack of a better word...lacking. I've read lots of books where emotions run hot and cold but at some point throughout, you can feel the draw. I just never really felt the draw after Connor hits Logan with her bag.
I really, really wanted to love this book. I mean hot firefighter, hot EMT, come on. But it fell short of my expectations. Want a decent medical/firefighter story try Trauma Alert by Radclyffe. Want a good Dead Partner Moving On story try Fated Love by Radclyffe...(I kinda like Radclyffe books).
I really, really wanted to love this book. I mean hot firefighter, hot EMT, come on. But it fell short of my expectations. Want a decent medical/firefighter story try Trauma Alert by Radclyffe. Want a good Dead Partner Moving On story try Fated Love by Radclyffe...(I kinda like Radclyffe books).
September 2, 2018
I kept trying and pushing myself but nope I finally admitted defeat and DNF at 70%.
The story keeps piling up tropes but even with those,what really put me off, was that I couldn't feel anything.
MC1 is supposed to be grieving or avoiding grief by being angry and bitchy. a lot.
Despite the multiple scenes and explaining,I just couldn't believe in her grief. And that being the main cause of the story, the rest wasn't enough to keep me going.
The story keeps piling up tropes but even with those,what really put me off, was that I couldn't feel anything.
MC1 is supposed to be grieving or avoiding grief by being angry and bitchy. a lot.
Despite the multiple scenes and explaining,I just couldn't believe in her grief. And that being the main cause of the story, the rest wasn't enough to keep me going.
March 25, 2021
Loved this book second time round- a real LesRom that ticked all the boxes and was a delight to read. Too short to be a slow burner but always knew exactly what was going on. Recommended.
December 7, 2016
Simply fantastic!
After The Fire is an absorbing read about a paramedic and a firefighter. They experienced on a daily basis danger, terror and catastrophe. It's action packed, heartstopping and heartbreaking. Connor wants nothing to do with Logan but keeps running into her. The spark can't be ignored. Connor is not interested in commitment and in addition, she hates firefighters. A painful past is the cause of why she puts up a huge wall between her and Logan. Logan reminds her so much of her loss and Connor knows better than to risk her heart to a firefighter. But how can she possible ignore her beauty, her courage and her tender heart? Logan loves what she does for a living and can't see herself doing anything else. Will her job prevent them for getting to know each other or will fate brings them together? The love story is touching and beautiful. I have fallen in love with this book and it's now one of my favorites.
After The Fire is an absorbing read about a paramedic and a firefighter. They experienced on a daily basis danger, terror and catastrophe. It's action packed, heartstopping and heartbreaking. Connor wants nothing to do with Logan but keeps running into her. The spark can't be ignored. Connor is not interested in commitment and in addition, she hates firefighters. A painful past is the cause of why she puts up a huge wall between her and Logan. Logan reminds her so much of her loss and Connor knows better than to risk her heart to a firefighter. But how can she possible ignore her beauty, her courage and her tender heart? Logan loves what she does for a living and can't see herself doing anything else. Will her job prevent them for getting to know each other or will fate brings them together? The love story is touching and beautiful. I have fallen in love with this book and it's now one of my favorites.
January 21, 2024
I enjoyed this way more than I thought I would. It's well written, the characters are good and they grow as the story progresses, and the plot had me tearing up here and there. Definitely a good intro to Emily Smith for me and I can't wait to pick up more books by her!
March 19, 2016
I almost always enjoy this type of book. EMT meets firefighter; I will read it every time. Connor and Logan were both likeable characters, but Logan was by far my favorite. I really enjoyed the story, and the pace of the story with the exception of a couple of small portions. A couple of the smaller events, I took as perhaps the main climax/problem only to look down and notice I was 75% of the book finished. Turned out the major problem/issue was at 83% of the book. Which is more normal. Just when reading I kept going this is it, nope.. this is it… nope.
Connor lost her partner, Kam years ago in a tragedy. Kam also being a firefighter makes Connor second-guess her relationship with firefighter Logan. This part is understandable. I feel as though I have read this story several times before. Logan is a player, turned one gal lover. Conner is the wounded heart, which learns to love again. A little unoriginal, but again I will read this story every single time I come across one.
~copy provided by NetGalley for honest review~
Connor lost her partner, Kam years ago in a tragedy. Kam also being a firefighter makes Connor second-guess her relationship with firefighter Logan. This part is understandable. I feel as though I have read this story several times before. Logan is a player, turned one gal lover. Conner is the wounded heart, which learns to love again. A little unoriginal, but again I will read this story every single time I come across one.
~copy provided by NetGalley for honest review~
June 6, 2016
Listened to the audio version. The narrator did a good job. The story was very enjoyable. I have past experience as an EMT and firefighter so the storyline was so,pome thing I related to.
July 1, 2020
Good book.
February 8, 2016
I do have a soft spot for books about the medical and first responders world. And this book didn't disappoint me! Logan was definitely my favorite who was the classic player/hotshot who always gets herself into trouble. I found her endearing especially as Conner and Logan's relationship grew and as her feelings strengthen for Conner.
I did like Conner as well and thought she had a good balance of being the bitchy ice queen and showing her kind spot that was buried under her grief. One thing I did find was that Conner's 'I can't fall in love with this type of person' started to get old as the book went on. She was definitely the more unreasonable one out of the two.
I liked the scenes with Connor and Logan out on the job I felt they were described well and weren't over done. I did however feel the end big action scene was rushed and could have been drawn out a bit more to provide more suspense. I feel like that just didn't hit the mark.
For me this was an enjoyable read and had a similar feel to Trauma Alter (First Responders #1) by Radclyffe which I really loved. I would definitely recommend this book!
I was given this book by NetGalley for an honest review.
I did like Conner as well and thought she had a good balance of being the bitchy ice queen and showing her kind spot that was buried under her grief. One thing I did find was that Conner's 'I can't fall in love with this type of person' started to get old as the book went on. She was definitely the more unreasonable one out of the two.
I liked the scenes with Connor and Logan out on the job I felt they were described well and weren't over done. I did however feel the end big action scene was rushed and could have been drawn out a bit more to provide more suspense. I feel like that just didn't hit the mark.
For me this was an enjoyable read and had a similar feel to Trauma Alter (First Responders #1) by Radclyffe which I really loved. I would definitely recommend this book!
I was given this book by NetGalley for an honest review.
February 16, 2016
Paramedic Connor Haus dislikes firefighters because of her past. It's not surprising when Connor shows her dislike towards Logan Curtis, a rookie firefigher that recently moved from Chicago. She's everything she's come to hate and it doesn't help that Logan reminds her of her partner Cam, who died during an incident. Meanwhile Logan can't get the paramedic off of her mind and realizes that Connor is not like the many other women that she's been with.
I liked the book until about three quarters of the way in and thought that the story derailed from then on. I thought the conflict was a poor choice and the way they got back together could have been drawn out more. Admittedly, this book had me smiling and laughing out loud.
Review also posted here: http://wp.me/p4Pp9O-65
I was given a copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I liked the book until about three quarters of the way in and thought that the story derailed from then on. I thought the conflict was a poor choice and the way they got back together could have been drawn out more. Admittedly, this book had me smiling and laughing out loud.
Review also posted here: http://wp.me/p4Pp9O-65
I was given a copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
May 22, 2016
An honest review thanks to NetGally. I have never heard of this author before, and this book could have easily been a four star maybe stretching it to a five if it wasn't for one problem. I hated the secondary character Jake; he is the main character's best friend, and I found myself having to skip pages where this character was on, I couldn't stand him. Good secondary characters make the book, the story and mundane parts are bearable from a good connection with a secondary character. Because of Jake, I don't think I will ever read this again. Though if you can stand the most horrible secondary character I have ever read then you will like this book.
February 12, 2016
Netgalley
Entirely forgettable novel heavily using the Radclyffe cookie cutter set for characters.
Not badly written, just repeating something that's been done a million times before and not doing anything that makes it stand out.
Entirely forgettable novel heavily using the Radclyffe cookie cutter set for characters.
Not badly written, just repeating something that's been done a million times before and not doing anything that makes it stand out.
July 28, 2016
Honestly, I've seen better... Had better, read better this topic. It was suppose to be passionate, full of sparks, but somehow it just didn't... deliver. I liked each character separately, but together - it's like they don't know how to act around each other.
February 29, 2016
Connor and Logan truly enjoyed them together and felt the emotional rollercoaster Connor was on.
Arc given by NetGalley for a honest review.
Arc given by NetGalley for a honest review.
April 3, 2023
This was my first Emily Smith book and I must say I was pleasantly surprised. Contrary to the negative naysayers about this book, I thoroughly enjoyed it. Fast paced, easy dialogue between all the characters, tension, angst, spice, and my favourite -- supporting characters who call out main characters' bullshit. I will admit the ol push-pull, I can't love em-but I do love em, grew old after a while and I just wanted to throttle them.
All in all, a great read. Bonus: the author works in the medical field, making all the medical scenes feel authentic.
All in all, a great read. Bonus: the author works in the medical field, making all the medical scenes feel authentic.
September 9, 2017
Pretty good book, I have to admit 2nd book was the best. Lovely story, little drama (so get the Kleenex out) and nice ending....
February 25, 2018
Good read that bogs down a bit through the middle and the later portion of the book.
June 14, 2019
Excellent book looking forward to reading other books by this author
May 8, 2017
I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review, so here goes.
Connor Haus is an ace paramedic, but since her firefighter partner, Kam died several years ago, she hadn’t been good at much else. With only Kam’s cat Rusty for company, Connor isn’t looking for any romantic entanglements. Enter Logan Curtis, one of the newest members of the Boston Fire Department. A self-assured cowboy, Logan is everything Connor isn’t looking for. When opposing forces spark, though, something deeper could form. Each faced with the task of changing, can they build something that will last?
The book is worth reading just for Haus’ partner and best friend, Jake, however. As supporting characters go, he’s great. Not only does he provide comic relief, but he’s a good friend who tells things to Connor straight, and serves as audience insight their jobs and Connor’s background. I would haved like to see more of Annie, Logan’s sister and kind of Jake’s counterpart. I like her but feel as if she wasn’t as developed as Jake, though it’s difficult to do a whole lot with everyone. Annie’s interactions with Logan were insightful, but I would have enjoyed more.
Overall, the story was entertaining, even if I found myself rolling my eyes at the characters at times, especially Connor. That’s okay, though, because Jake was there with me every step of the way. If you like a lot of back and forth with your romance, then you’ve stopped on the right title. Will they? Won’t they? Can they keep it together enough to stop falling apart? Both characters are insanely stubborn (something I myself can relate to, so I have to cut them some slack), so it will take a lot for both to decide if they want something more than just casual sex.
A pretty quick read, this is a good choice for a lazy weekend, or even a beach trip since the days of Spring look like they are finally upon us. I read almost half in one sitting and wasn’t bored. The action of the life of a paramedic and firefighter is intriguing and the romance balances it out nicely.
Connor Haus is an ace paramedic, but since her firefighter partner, Kam died several years ago, she hadn’t been good at much else. With only Kam’s cat Rusty for company, Connor isn’t looking for any romantic entanglements. Enter Logan Curtis, one of the newest members of the Boston Fire Department. A self-assured cowboy, Logan is everything Connor isn’t looking for. When opposing forces spark, though, something deeper could form. Each faced with the task of changing, can they build something that will last?
The book is worth reading just for Haus’ partner and best friend, Jake, however. As supporting characters go, he’s great. Not only does he provide comic relief, but he’s a good friend who tells things to Connor straight, and serves as audience insight their jobs and Connor’s background. I would haved like to see more of Annie, Logan’s sister and kind of Jake’s counterpart. I like her but feel as if she wasn’t as developed as Jake, though it’s difficult to do a whole lot with everyone. Annie’s interactions with Logan were insightful, but I would have enjoyed more.
Overall, the story was entertaining, even if I found myself rolling my eyes at the characters at times, especially Connor. That’s okay, though, because Jake was there with me every step of the way. If you like a lot of back and forth with your romance, then you’ve stopped on the right title. Will they? Won’t they? Can they keep it together enough to stop falling apart? Both characters are insanely stubborn (something I myself can relate to, so I have to cut them some slack), so it will take a lot for both to decide if they want something more than just casual sex.
A pretty quick read, this is a good choice for a lazy weekend, or even a beach trip since the days of Spring look like they are finally upon us. I read almost half in one sitting and wasn’t bored. The action of the life of a paramedic and firefighter is intriguing and the romance balances it out nicely.
March 10, 2016
I received a copy of this book from Inked Rainbow Reads in return for an honest review.
This book definitely kept me turning pages. Logan almost made me wish I'd met her first! Except for the whole part about her being fictional, of course. So, firefighters are sexy, that's a definite truism. But they're also in a dangerous job, a job where they encounter dangerous situations all the time, and a job where their judgment can save people, or end up getting themselves and others hurt. Connor knows this for a fact, because her wife died in the line of duty, unable to stand by and watch someone die without trying to save her. Now Logan enters her life, and Connor is afraid to have any feelings for her, afraid of losing her heart to someone who could also die on the job. The problem is that we can't decide who we love.
Connor was the frustrating character in this book. Her fear of loss is understandable; losing Kam was almost more than she could bear, how can she survive if she loves and loses Logan? At the same time, we can see that she's lying to herself about her feelings. And that's frustrating, because her inability to resolve the fact that she has feelings for Logan with the possible dangers of Logan's job means she takes us on a ride of indecisiveness. She gets closer to Logan, then pushes her away, then pulls her back, then runs away again. It really makes you want to grab her by the shoulders and shake her, hard and repeatedly. (I was rooting for Jake to finally do that to get her to wake up.)
In the end, Connor has to face the fact that there are no guarantees in life, but that doesn't mean you should stop living. And she has to do it before she loses Logan forever. I liked the story a lot, and I was pulling for Logan long before she ever got a first date. The book kept my interest and ended on a note that left me satisfied with the story and feeling good. Another author to keep my eye on.
This book definitely kept me turning pages. Logan almost made me wish I'd met her first! Except for the whole part about her being fictional, of course. So, firefighters are sexy, that's a definite truism. But they're also in a dangerous job, a job where they encounter dangerous situations all the time, and a job where their judgment can save people, or end up getting themselves and others hurt. Connor knows this for a fact, because her wife died in the line of duty, unable to stand by and watch someone die without trying to save her. Now Logan enters her life, and Connor is afraid to have any feelings for her, afraid of losing her heart to someone who could also die on the job. The problem is that we can't decide who we love.
Connor was the frustrating character in this book. Her fear of loss is understandable; losing Kam was almost more than she could bear, how can she survive if she loves and loses Logan? At the same time, we can see that she's lying to herself about her feelings. And that's frustrating, because her inability to resolve the fact that she has feelings for Logan with the possible dangers of Logan's job means she takes us on a ride of indecisiveness. She gets closer to Logan, then pushes her away, then pulls her back, then runs away again. It really makes you want to grab her by the shoulders and shake her, hard and repeatedly. (I was rooting for Jake to finally do that to get her to wake up.)
In the end, Connor has to face the fact that there are no guarantees in life, but that doesn't mean you should stop living. And she has to do it before she loses Logan forever. I liked the story a lot, and I was pulling for Logan long before she ever got a first date. The book kept my interest and ended on a note that left me satisfied with the story and feeling good. Another author to keep my eye on.
March 9, 2016
I received an ARC of this book from Inked Rainbow Reads in exchange for an honest review.
This was a delightful romance story. Connor is a kickass paramedic that lost her firefighting girlfriend years before and has thrown herself into her work. She meets Logan, a new firefighter in her area, and feelings that she thought had died with Kam begin to surface again; however, even as she tries to deny those feelings they grow stronger.
So many times throughout the book I wanted to wring her neck and tell her to get with it, but she continued to resist. Toward the end she nearly walked away for good. I’m glad she had such good friends in Jake and his wife. I can't imagine how hard it would be to try to move on with life after you lose someone you love as much as she did Kam. I felt the struggle and the emotions as if I were experiencing them myself.
Well done to the author for her portrayal of the struggle and the emotions. I loved Jake's witty comebacks and I loved Annie's caring and nurturing side with her little sister Logan.
I understand that the story was more Connor's than Logan's but I would have loved to see more of Logan's story and more interaction with her sister. The book was still great without it, though I enjoyed their dynamic so much I would have loved more.
I loved the bits of their job that we get to see, though I do wish it were more. I would have also loved to learn how some of the patients toward the end faired; however, I understand that Logan was the one that typically followed up on those she brought in. I also wish we could have been a part of more fire fights, though I do understand that wasn't the main goal of the book.
All-in-all I enjoyed watching Connor become less closed off and more open and I enjoyed getting to watch as she and Logan fell in love. Great read.
This was a delightful romance story. Connor is a kickass paramedic that lost her firefighting girlfriend years before and has thrown herself into her work. She meets Logan, a new firefighter in her area, and feelings that she thought had died with Kam begin to surface again; however, even as she tries to deny those feelings they grow stronger.
So many times throughout the book I wanted to wring her neck and tell her to get with it, but she continued to resist. Toward the end she nearly walked away for good. I’m glad she had such good friends in Jake and his wife. I can't imagine how hard it would be to try to move on with life after you lose someone you love as much as she did Kam. I felt the struggle and the emotions as if I were experiencing them myself.
Well done to the author for her portrayal of the struggle and the emotions. I loved Jake's witty comebacks and I loved Annie's caring and nurturing side with her little sister Logan.
I understand that the story was more Connor's than Logan's but I would have loved to see more of Logan's story and more interaction with her sister. The book was still great without it, though I enjoyed their dynamic so much I would have loved more.
I loved the bits of their job that we get to see, though I do wish it were more. I would have also loved to learn how some of the patients toward the end faired; however, I understand that Logan was the one that typically followed up on those she brought in. I also wish we could have been a part of more fire fights, though I do understand that wasn't the main goal of the book.
All-in-all I enjoyed watching Connor become less closed off and more open and I enjoyed getting to watch as she and Logan fell in love. Great read.
February 14, 2016
Emergency Calls
EMT Connor lost her firefighter fiancee, Kam, to a car fire. Years later and she is nearly ready to move on. She is attracted to the new girl in town and that's a problem. Firefighter/Medic Logan is a player and a hot shot. She reminds Connor a bit of Kam with her willingness to take risks. At first Connor is just plain mean to Logan, who by the way is looking awfully hard at Connor, but then the pretty butch begins to redeem herself in Connor's eyes. However, she is not as willing as Logan to give her heart. Will she ever be able to move on or will she loose Logan forever?
This is a very well written story, well worthy of the BSB brand. I really liked both of the main characters. They are brave and tough and wore uniforms, whats not to adore? And when it came to their personal lives each was scared and unsure as they tried to battle their demons. I couldn't help but feel for them. Both characters grew and transformed from the closed off women they had been into emotionally free, warm strong women. It is endearing and beautiful. I was also pleased with the action, danger and detail that was portrayed when they were out on calls.
I am very impressed with Ms Smith's skills and I am looking forward to reading more from this author.
EMT Connor lost her firefighter fiancee, Kam, to a car fire. Years later and she is nearly ready to move on. She is attracted to the new girl in town and that's a problem. Firefighter/Medic Logan is a player and a hot shot. She reminds Connor a bit of Kam with her willingness to take risks. At first Connor is just plain mean to Logan, who by the way is looking awfully hard at Connor, but then the pretty butch begins to redeem herself in Connor's eyes. However, she is not as willing as Logan to give her heart. Will she ever be able to move on or will she loose Logan forever?
This is a very well written story, well worthy of the BSB brand. I really liked both of the main characters. They are brave and tough and wore uniforms, whats not to adore? And when it came to their personal lives each was scared and unsure as they tried to battle their demons. I couldn't help but feel for them. Both characters grew and transformed from the closed off women they had been into emotionally free, warm strong women. It is endearing and beautiful. I was also pleased with the action, danger and detail that was portrayed when they were out on calls.
I am very impressed with Ms Smith's skills and I am looking forward to reading more from this author.
Read
March 5, 2016(rating: dnf)
I obviously didn't like this book - otherwise I wouldn't have dnf-ed it. There are a few reasons why:
* I hated the characters. Yep, all characters. Didn't care at all for them.
* apparently all men are stupid
* stereotypes (female/long-haired/passive/dress wearing etc. woman and masculine/short-haired/ dress pants wearing woman)
* an 8 yo girl has to be gay if she has no interest in kissing boys
* anti-asexuals and anti-celibates (everyone has to have sex y'know?)
* too much lust interests (you can't call them love interests)
* too much information/memories about Kam (makes it even harder to care about Logan)
* why are they suddenly interested in each other?!
I was really, really bored while reading this. There isn't anything new in it and this on top of not caring for the characters made me dnf.
Disclaimer: I was provided with a free copy through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you.
I obviously didn't like this book - otherwise I wouldn't have dnf-ed it. There are a few reasons why:
* I hated the characters. Yep, all characters. Didn't care at all for them.
* apparently all men are stupid
* stereotypes (female/long-haired/passive/dress wearing etc. woman and masculine/short-haired/ dress pants wearing woman)
* an 8 yo girl has to be gay if she has no interest in kissing boys
* anti-asexuals and anti-celibates (everyone has to have sex y'know?)
* too much lust interests (you can't call them love interests)
* too much information/memories about Kam (makes it even harder to care about Logan)
* why are they suddenly interested in each other?!
I was really, really bored while reading this. There isn't anything new in it and this on top of not caring for the characters made me dnf.
Disclaimer: I was provided with a free copy through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you.
April 20, 2016
I was grateful to receive a free copy of this book. I found it easy to read, but it was really hard to get into the story. Like others reviewers, I am always up for an action packed drama. However, the drama mostly took place while the characters were at the hospital or responding to fire and EMT calls. I'm pretty sure having sexual escapades at work might be slightly unrealistic. It was also difficult as a reader to see how an emotional relationship developed between the characters. As a reader, it felt like the story was more about "bootie calls" and sexual connections. The biggest letdown was the grand finale and how unrealistic it was for a paramedic to enter an active shooter situation to "save her love." Overall, this was an easy book to read, and I would recommemd it to those who are just looking for some quick entertainment without a lot of depth.
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