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Men of Marietta #5
Burning with Desire
As the new owner of the Main Street Diner, chef Gabriella Marcos has taken a huge risk. After being duped by her fiancé and her boss, she invested her entire savings into a place she’s never seen, in a town called Marietta she’s never been to and brought her reluctant teenage daughter along for the adventure. Gabriella is also determined to prove to her overprotective family that she doesn’t need a man to make her life complete. Too bad her sexy new neighbor is impossible to ignore.
Since arriving in Marietta last summer, fireman Kyle Cavasos has enjoyed the anonymity that small town life provides. It’s a far cry from the opulence of Bel Air where he grew up. Here, he can be a Navy vet and a first responder, not the love child who caused a flurry of gossip and tabloid headlines decades ago. Kyle has no intention of getting involved with anyone in Marietta until Gabriella moves in and life gets interesting. Fast.
Despite agreeing to pose for the Marietta Men For All Seasons calendar in order to raise money for Harry's House, Kyle hopes to stay out of the social media chaos, while he gets to know the new girl in town better. But when the calendar goes viral, will it all come crashing down for the both of them?
Since arriving in Marietta last summer, fireman Kyle Cavasos has enjoyed the anonymity that small town life provides. It’s a far cry from the opulence of Bel Air where he grew up. Here, he can be a Navy vet and a first responder, not the love child who caused a flurry of gossip and tabloid headlines decades ago. Kyle has no intention of getting involved with anyone in Marietta until Gabriella moves in and life gets interesting. Fast.
Despite agreeing to pose for the Marietta Men For All Seasons calendar in order to raise money for Harry's House, Kyle hopes to stay out of the social media chaos, while he gets to know the new girl in town better. But when the calendar goes viral, will it all come crashing down for the both of them?
306 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 18, 2017
443 people are currently reading
288 people want to read
About the author
Patricia W. Fischer
12 books78 followersMy strong desire to tell stories hit me early in life. At the young age of nine, I penned a play about Nessie from the monster’s point of view. Since then, I’ve written constantly, whether it was in a journal, diary, in my notebooks at school, or on my computer.
But I also came by story-telling naturally. My great-grandmothers and grand-parents, all had traveled extensively through the US and the world and told us all of their parents and grandparents immigrating to America and ending up in Texas.
Now factor in the numerous aunts and uncles, who were always amazing sources of information and incredible stories about everything from where exactly the tooth fairy puts all those teeth to Santa’s elf who hides in the air conditioning vents and watches us all year, to the mythological creatures that hang out under our beds, and I had a very well rounded education in how to spin a yarn.
In my adult years, I learned to be a waitress, bartender, bill collector, bank teller, Blockbuster Video clerk, and dishwasher all before I earned my degree in nursing. Then I spent the next ten years in the adult ICU’s and adult and pediatric trauma units. As if I didn’t have anything else to do, I went to massage therapy school to learn to better care for my ICU patients, many of whom suffered bed sores and back pain due to their extensive times in bed. (Yes, I’m coming up with a hero who’s a massage therapist.)
After that certification, I still didn’t think I had enough knowledge and in an attempt to educate myself right out of the general dating pool, I returned to school to earn my journalism degree. It was while I worked as a Level 1 pediatric trauma nurse, I met my husband while I worked at Children’s Medical Center of Dallas.
Now I hope to share my fiction and non-fiction story telling techniques with our children and with anyone who wants to read or hear it.
But I also came by story-telling naturally. My great-grandmothers and grand-parents, all had traveled extensively through the US and the world and told us all of their parents and grandparents immigrating to America and ending up in Texas.
Now factor in the numerous aunts and uncles, who were always amazing sources of information and incredible stories about everything from where exactly the tooth fairy puts all those teeth to Santa’s elf who hides in the air conditioning vents and watches us all year, to the mythological creatures that hang out under our beds, and I had a very well rounded education in how to spin a yarn.
In my adult years, I learned to be a waitress, bartender, bill collector, bank teller, Blockbuster Video clerk, and dishwasher all before I earned my degree in nursing. Then I spent the next ten years in the adult ICU’s and adult and pediatric trauma units. As if I didn’t have anything else to do, I went to massage therapy school to learn to better care for my ICU patients, many of whom suffered bed sores and back pain due to their extensive times in bed. (Yes, I’m coming up with a hero who’s a massage therapist.)
After that certification, I still didn’t think I had enough knowledge and in an attempt to educate myself right out of the general dating pool, I returned to school to earn my journalism degree. It was while I worked as a Level 1 pediatric trauma nurse, I met my husband while I worked at Children’s Medical Center of Dallas.
Now I hope to share my fiction and non-fiction story telling techniques with our children and with anyone who wants to read or hear it.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
April 19, 2017
3.5 stars
The fifth and final visit with the Men of Marietta brings us firefighter, paramedic and Mr. October, Kyle Cavalos, and new-to-town diner owner, Gabriella Marcos and her teen daughter, Trinity--each who have moved to Marietta to make fresh starts.
Patricia W. Fischer does do a nice job in concluding the series and creates a loveable couple to boot; Kyle and Gabby have an instant easy chemistry, bounce of each other perfectly from their first meet, and Gabby's inner monologue is rather amusing.
"Does Montana have some secret air pheromones that blow off the mountain in springtime?"
There were some moments when the pacing dropped off a bit for me and I have to be honest in that I was expecting more of a bang heading into the final stretch, but with characters who welcome you as only Marietta residents can and a lovely epilogue, Patricia W. Fisher has brought us an enjoyable read.
Copy received courtesy of Tule Publishing via NetGalley for an honest and unbiased opinion.
The fifth and final visit with the Men of Marietta brings us firefighter, paramedic and Mr. October, Kyle Cavalos, and new-to-town diner owner, Gabriella Marcos and her teen daughter, Trinity--each who have moved to Marietta to make fresh starts.
Patricia W. Fischer does do a nice job in concluding the series and creates a loveable couple to boot; Kyle and Gabby have an instant easy chemistry, bounce of each other perfectly from their first meet, and Gabby's inner monologue is rather amusing.
"Does Montana have some secret air pheromones that blow off the mountain in springtime?"
There were some moments when the pacing dropped off a bit for me and I have to be honest in that I was expecting more of a bang heading into the final stretch, but with characters who welcome you as only Marietta residents can and a lovely epilogue, Patricia W. Fisher has brought us an enjoyable read.
Copy received courtesy of Tule Publishing via NetGalley for an honest and unbiased opinion.
June 24, 2019
3.5 Good Intentions Stars
* * * 1/2 Spoiler Free
Good Intentions...They can make things go great or they may have been what you wanted... but just missed the mark a bit. This series of The Men of Marietta has had its high points and then a few just missing the mark...And I think that's the case because those of us who have fallen hard for this place of Marietta and its people have been spoiled with couples whose chemistry is more than instant attraction. There is always a little of that... but somehow it is laced with a bit of more...
We are given a couple of plot points of serious merit; We have Kyle Cavasos, a new Fireman/EMT for Marietta. Harry reached out to him and showed him the ropes, introducing him to the townsfolk and paving the way. They worked together and were buddies. When Harry was killed helping others... it crushed Kyle and the town. Doing this Calendar is so they can raise enough money to finish what they started, creating a safe place for the kids... Harry's House.
Now Kyle has always been a mystery man in Marietta... he keeps his head down and does his job... for he has his reasons. It was a huge stretch for him to commit to doing this photo shoot... it went against everything he had been working towards... being invisible. But his love for Harry and a very persuasive photographer talked him into posing. The good news was she understood his reluctance and allowed him to wear his huge Fireman's Helmet blocking out most of his face...
For his face had been seen in all the Rags years ago...as the Love Child of The Playboy/ManHo/ Major Actor and Married Film Producer/Real Estate Tycoon...It was something that causes disruption and pain. To this day, Kyle still hasn't recovered from it. The notoriety of this plus the responsibility of taking over one of his grandfather's properties have been hounding him. Kyle just wants to stay in Marietta and be part of something because of his merit... not his fame, fortune or family connections.
Gabriella Marcos has her own reasons to move to Marietta. The timing couldn't have been better when Paige, who owned the Main Street Diner, visited the resort where Gabriella was the chef. She had done all of the cuisine for an event Paige attended and Paige was truly impressed. They ended up talking with Paige offering to sell Gabby the diner...
And when I said the timing was perfect... I wasn't kidding because Gabby was at the end of her rope...
She had a cheating fiance...
A boss who was evil and threatening not only her,
but all of her family members who worked for him...
And her Charge/Daughter Trinity was being bullied at school...
Gabriella knew she needed to protect her family and her daughter, so off to the unknown... away from Texas, her loving family, heritage and off to Marietta. They arrive after 4 days of traveling with a dog and cat. It is freezing even though it is March! Gabby looks for the key to the front door and it isn't under the mat...Somehow she gets in through the back door and is finally able to use the much need john...
Kyle who happens to be the neighbor who was supposed to meet the new family and give them their keys...The house has been empty and kids have been trying to use it as a place to hang...He sees a movement through the windows and thinks maybe it is those kids again...He goes into the house, sees a light under a door and opens it...
Well, that is smooth...Yup a terrific way to meet one's neighbor, don't ya think...
For Both of Them...Awkward...
But somehow both seem to handle it just fine...He is impressed Gabby didn't react all embarrassed and angry...and she was just stunned by this stone cold fox standing before her...Gabby got it together right away and both of them got Trinity and the animals into the house and settled.
Now Trinity is going to be a freshman in High School. She has a good head on her shoulders, extremely talented in art and has experienced much. Her mother was Gabby's best friend and they both relied on each other.
When Trinity's mother became pregnant and it turned out the father wasn't her husband ...It seems they both had been having difficult times...This caused things to become more difficult. Trinity was biracial and her Mother's family was not accepting AT ALL. When Trinity's parents die in a car crash, Gabby was the only one to be named as her guardian. Her mother's family turned their back to her.
With Gabby coming from a large loving family, she accepted Trinity as if it was just another family member. She has been Gabby's daughter ever since. Her main wish is for this fresh start to be everything they both need; a successful transition with the new ownership for Gabby and a positive school and peer experience for Trinity.
Kyle is taken right away by the strong woman he sees before him. She is self-assured, has a terrific and bright daughter and can bake the most amazing spicy brownies his mouth have ever tasted. They leave a tingle on his lips and his eyes are having just as much enjoyment when he looks at Gabby. Kyle has stayed away from all of the women in Marietta. He didn't know how long he was going to be there... and he just wanted to be left alone...
But now that he has to meet Gabriella and her daughter...he is drawn to this family and feels something more than just attraction.
This story has a lot of moving pieces, most of them falling into place. There is an issue of revealing truths of who Kyle is and what that means... for there is more to it than just the fame factor. It actually impacts her more closely than that. Kyle doesn't do what his instincts keep telling him to do...and it catches up with him. It all works out in the end and this couple is on its way to a very solid life here in Marietta.
Burning with Desire is the last entry of this series which also gave the author added pressure to incorporate all of the back stories from the first 4 entries and tie them up with a bow. When working to that end, there were the references consistent with the timelines so that worked well. Yet with all of the books revolving around this calendar... the finishing of it and release gathering was not as much of closure as I expected.
Tule Publishing has done many series revolving around this town and it will be interesting how they incorporate Harry's House, the youth of the town and all the other characters I know who are in the wings.
Tempting the Deputy (Men of Marietta, #1)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Flirting with Fire (Men of Marietta, #2)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Daring the Pilot (Men of Marietta, #3)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Falling for the Ranger (Men of Marietta, #4)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Burning with Desire (Men of Marietta, #5)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
A gifted copy was provided by Tule Publishing via NetGalley for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
* * * 1/2 Spoiler Free
Good Intentions...They can make things go great or they may have been what you wanted... but just missed the mark a bit. This series of The Men of Marietta has had its high points and then a few just missing the mark...And I think that's the case because those of us who have fallen hard for this place of Marietta and its people have been spoiled with couples whose chemistry is more than instant attraction. There is always a little of that... but somehow it is laced with a bit of more...
We are given a couple of plot points of serious merit; We have Kyle Cavasos, a new Fireman/EMT for Marietta. Harry reached out to him and showed him the ropes, introducing him to the townsfolk and paving the way. They worked together and were buddies. When Harry was killed helping others... it crushed Kyle and the town. Doing this Calendar is so they can raise enough money to finish what they started, creating a safe place for the kids... Harry's House.
Now Kyle has always been a mystery man in Marietta... he keeps his head down and does his job... for he has his reasons. It was a huge stretch for him to commit to doing this photo shoot... it went against everything he had been working towards... being invisible. But his love for Harry and a very persuasive photographer talked him into posing. The good news was she understood his reluctance and allowed him to wear his huge Fireman's Helmet blocking out most of his face...
For his face had been seen in all the Rags years ago...as the Love Child of The Playboy/ManHo/ Major Actor and Married Film Producer/Real Estate Tycoon...It was something that causes disruption and pain. To this day, Kyle still hasn't recovered from it. The notoriety of this plus the responsibility of taking over one of his grandfather's properties have been hounding him. Kyle just wants to stay in Marietta and be part of something because of his merit... not his fame, fortune or family connections.
Gabriella Marcos has her own reasons to move to Marietta. The timing couldn't have been better when Paige, who owned the Main Street Diner, visited the resort where Gabriella was the chef. She had done all of the cuisine for an event Paige attended and Paige was truly impressed. They ended up talking with Paige offering to sell Gabby the diner...
And when I said the timing was perfect... I wasn't kidding because Gabby was at the end of her rope...
She had a cheating fiance...
A boss who was evil and threatening not only her,
but all of her family members who worked for him...
And her Charge/Daughter Trinity was being bullied at school...
Gabriella knew she needed to protect her family and her daughter, so off to the unknown... away from Texas, her loving family, heritage and off to Marietta. They arrive after 4 days of traveling with a dog and cat. It is freezing even though it is March! Gabby looks for the key to the front door and it isn't under the mat...Somehow she gets in through the back door and is finally able to use the much need john...
Kyle who happens to be the neighbor who was supposed to meet the new family and give them their keys...The house has been empty and kids have been trying to use it as a place to hang...He sees a movement through the windows and thinks maybe it is those kids again...He goes into the house, sees a light under a door and opens it...
Well, that is smooth...Yup a terrific way to meet one's neighbor, don't ya think...
For Both of Them...Awkward...
But somehow both seem to handle it just fine...He is impressed Gabby didn't react all embarrassed and angry...and she was just stunned by this stone cold fox standing before her...Gabby got it together right away and both of them got Trinity and the animals into the house and settled.
Now Trinity is going to be a freshman in High School. She has a good head on her shoulders, extremely talented in art and has experienced much. Her mother was Gabby's best friend and they both relied on each other.
When Trinity's mother became pregnant and it turned out the father wasn't her husband ...It seems they both had been having difficult times...This caused things to become more difficult. Trinity was biracial and her Mother's family was not accepting AT ALL. When Trinity's parents die in a car crash, Gabby was the only one to be named as her guardian. Her mother's family turned their back to her.
With Gabby coming from a large loving family, she accepted Trinity as if it was just another family member. She has been Gabby's daughter ever since. Her main wish is for this fresh start to be everything they both need; a successful transition with the new ownership for Gabby and a positive school and peer experience for Trinity.
Kyle is taken right away by the strong woman he sees before him. She is self-assured, has a terrific and bright daughter and can bake the most amazing spicy brownies his mouth have ever tasted. They leave a tingle on his lips and his eyes are having just as much enjoyment when he looks at Gabby. Kyle has stayed away from all of the women in Marietta. He didn't know how long he was going to be there... and he just wanted to be left alone...
But now that he has to meet Gabriella and her daughter...he is drawn to this family and feels something more than just attraction.
This story has a lot of moving pieces, most of them falling into place. There is an issue of revealing truths of who Kyle is and what that means... for there is more to it than just the fame factor. It actually impacts her more closely than that. Kyle doesn't do what his instincts keep telling him to do...and it catches up with him. It all works out in the end and this couple is on its way to a very solid life here in Marietta.
Burning with Desire is the last entry of this series which also gave the author added pressure to incorporate all of the back stories from the first 4 entries and tie them up with a bow. When working to that end, there were the references consistent with the timelines so that worked well. Yet with all of the books revolving around this calendar... the finishing of it and release gathering was not as much of closure as I expected.
Tule Publishing has done many series revolving around this town and it will be interesting how they incorporate Harry's House, the youth of the town and all the other characters I know who are in the wings.
Tempting the Deputy (Men of Marietta, #1)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Flirting with Fire (Men of Marietta, #2)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Daring the Pilot (Men of Marietta, #3)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Falling for the Ranger (Men of Marietta, #4)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Burning with Desire (Men of Marietta, #5)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
A gifted copy was provided by Tule Publishing via NetGalley for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
April 16, 2017
'Burning with Desire' closes the Men of Marietta series not quite with a bang, but certainly not with a whimper. Kyle/Gabrielle was a pairing that I'd been waiting for and it didn't - by and large - disappoint, though I think I'd expected something a little more exciting and poignant.
Kyle/Gabriella have an attraction to each other almost immediately and they've both settled in Marietta for different reasons, yet the things that they've left behind turn out to be the very connection that links them together, somewhat coincidentally. I did like Kyle's backstory though and how he'd made sure that he wasn't the man his biological father was, which, translated, meant that he was careful with the women he dated. I also liked that he was stubborn enough to make his own honest living as a first responder in a place where fame can't catch up with him. It was also easy to identify with Gabriella's gumption and determination to make her new life work for her and her adopted daughter.
It's only Kyle's not too little secret that might threaten their newfound relationship, which I didn't think was that big a deal, as his reasons did seem justified. But as much as I thought it was going to be a huge conflict-climax, I'm sort of glad that Patricia W. Fischer resolved it quite quickly, focusing instead on maintaining equilibrium with just a dialogue that promised more open lines of communication.
I'm a little stuck between 3- and 4-stars for this review, but that's because I'd hoped for something more, though what 'more' really constitutes isn't something I can exactly articulate. Yet it's definitely an improvement over the past few books in this series. That it's quite well-written is a bonus.
*ARC by netgalley
(always grateful, mind)
Kyle/Gabriella have an attraction to each other almost immediately and they've both settled in Marietta for different reasons, yet the things that they've left behind turn out to be the very connection that links them together, somewhat coincidentally. I did like Kyle's backstory though and how he'd made sure that he wasn't the man his biological father was, which, translated, meant that he was careful with the women he dated. I also liked that he was stubborn enough to make his own honest living as a first responder in a place where fame can't catch up with him. It was also easy to identify with Gabriella's gumption and determination to make her new life work for her and her adopted daughter.
It's only Kyle's not too little secret that might threaten their newfound relationship, which I didn't think was that big a deal, as his reasons did seem justified. But as much as I thought it was going to be a huge conflict-climax, I'm sort of glad that Patricia W. Fischer resolved it quite quickly, focusing instead on maintaining equilibrium with just a dialogue that promised more open lines of communication.
I'm a little stuck between 3- and 4-stars for this review, but that's because I'd hoped for something more, though what 'more' really constitutes isn't something I can exactly articulate. Yet it's definitely an improvement over the past few books in this series. That it's quite well-written is a bonus.
*ARC by netgalley
(always grateful, mind)
April 25, 2017
"Received an Advance Reader Copy in exchange for a fair review"
I enjoyed this book in that it was a “Men of Marietta” story, but I didn’t find it very exciting in itself. I liked the characters, the Montana setting and atmosphere – beautifully evoked, as usual in this series –, I empathized with the main characters’ struggles – a single mom, a man trying to build a new life and identity on his own – but there were other elements that either aren’t my favorite subjects or just felt odd to me. Nonetheless, the things I didn’t appreciate that much might be other readers’ favorite ones.
Kyle, Gabriella and the secondary characters are likable and relatable characters, but I didn’t connect to them and I didn’t find the plot that interesting.
Kyle’s celebrity and anonymity issues didn’t work for me and the link between his family and Gabriella's seemed a bit far-fetched (the final scene with Kyle’s parents sounded like a sit-com).
The bonding between Gabriella, Kyle and even between him and her daughter, Trinity, was so fast, it seemed they’ve known each other for ages but we, readers, didn’t see enough happening justifying all that closeness.
It’s instant attraction and instant lust between these two - Gabriella has just met Kyle (some minutes ago) and hugs and kisses him on the cheek to show her gratitude; he’s being friendly with her and she squeezes his hand (on their second time meeting and I think they start their relationship right away. It felt weird with their kind of personality).
Stressing and repeating Kyle’s handsomeness (his chiseled jawline) or Gabriella’s curves and beautiful skin became a bit tiring too.
Perhaps this author’s writing is not my style – even with her mouth-watering descriptions of food - but I don’t think these characters will remain with me.
I'm grateful to the publisher, Tule Publishing, and NetGalley for providing a free copy.
I enjoyed this book in that it was a “Men of Marietta” story, but I didn’t find it very exciting in itself. I liked the characters, the Montana setting and atmosphere – beautifully evoked, as usual in this series –, I empathized with the main characters’ struggles – a single mom, a man trying to build a new life and identity on his own – but there were other elements that either aren’t my favorite subjects or just felt odd to me. Nonetheless, the things I didn’t appreciate that much might be other readers’ favorite ones.
Kyle, Gabriella and the secondary characters are likable and relatable characters, but I didn’t connect to them and I didn’t find the plot that interesting.
Kyle’s celebrity and anonymity issues didn’t work for me and the link between his family and Gabriella's seemed a bit far-fetched (the final scene with Kyle’s parents sounded like a sit-com).
The bonding between Gabriella, Kyle and even between him and her daughter, Trinity, was so fast, it seemed they’ve known each other for ages but we, readers, didn’t see enough happening justifying all that closeness.
It’s instant attraction and instant lust between these two - Gabriella has just met Kyle (some minutes ago) and hugs and kisses him on the cheek to show her gratitude; he’s being friendly with her and she squeezes his hand (on their second time meeting and I think they start their relationship right away. It felt weird with their kind of personality).
Stressing and repeating Kyle’s handsomeness (his chiseled jawline) or Gabriella’s curves and beautiful skin became a bit tiring too.
Perhaps this author’s writing is not my style – even with her mouth-watering descriptions of food - but I don’t think these characters will remain with me.
I'm grateful to the publisher, Tule Publishing, and NetGalley for providing a free copy.
April 17, 2017
Well, having been waiting to see what Kyle’s secretive nature was all about since the start of this series, I’m sad to say I found this a rather underwhelming read. It isn’t bad, but it didn’t thrill me either. Kyle seems nice enough, Gabriella is also nice and Marietta is there in the background, but… well, it’s all a bit bland.
Kyle and Gabriella are attracted to each other from the start. There’s no mystery, no messing around, they like each other and they’re not afraid to show it. Despite this, they want to take things slow, which is fine, but it also felt a bit forced because without that there really is nothing keeping these two apart for so long. The only cloud on their horizon is Kyle’s past, and since I fully understood his reasons for keeping his secrets, it also felt like a storm in a teacup waiting to happen for the entire book.
There’s also a lot about family being what you make it and not just being down to blood. For both characters. Gabriella’s daughter also has a hard time with this, and worrying about moving to a new town, but thankfully Marietta’s finest are on hand to help out.
In all it’s not a bad read, but I expected more… more romance, more drama, more something, I can’t even put my finger on it. Not much happens, to be honest, and even though I liked the characters, they never quite drew me in enough to get over the lack of everything else. Especially when it was obviously all moving towards one big showdown at the end, which then turned rather too cheesy and perfect for my liking.
So it’s okay. Not my favourite of the series, but definitely not the worst. Overall, this series promised a lot and sadly didn’t quite deliver. I loved the idea of all these first responders, with or without the calendar shoot, but barely any of them did any real work, which made the whole “first responders” draw a bit hollow. Still, it’s always nice to spend time in Marietta, and I hope to see more of Harry’s House in the future.
(ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley.)
Kyle and Gabriella are attracted to each other from the start. There’s no mystery, no messing around, they like each other and they’re not afraid to show it. Despite this, they want to take things slow, which is fine, but it also felt a bit forced because without that there really is nothing keeping these two apart for so long. The only cloud on their horizon is Kyle’s past, and since I fully understood his reasons for keeping his secrets, it also felt like a storm in a teacup waiting to happen for the entire book.
There’s also a lot about family being what you make it and not just being down to blood. For both characters. Gabriella’s daughter also has a hard time with this, and worrying about moving to a new town, but thankfully Marietta’s finest are on hand to help out.
In all it’s not a bad read, but I expected more… more romance, more drama, more something, I can’t even put my finger on it. Not much happens, to be honest, and even though I liked the characters, they never quite drew me in enough to get over the lack of everything else. Especially when it was obviously all moving towards one big showdown at the end, which then turned rather too cheesy and perfect for my liking.
So it’s okay. Not my favourite of the series, but definitely not the worst. Overall, this series promised a lot and sadly didn’t quite deliver. I loved the idea of all these first responders, with or without the calendar shoot, but barely any of them did any real work, which made the whole “first responders” draw a bit hollow. Still, it’s always nice to spend time in Marietta, and I hope to see more of Harry’s House in the future.
(ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley.)
Read
April 17, 2017As the last book in the Men of Marietta series featuring the first responders involved in Harry's House calendar project, Burning with Desire did go through snippets from previous books; then clinched it in a scene that encompassed the men and the project successfully.
The flow of the story was too erratic to my liking, though. I also couldn't seem to warm up to either main characters nor to their very instant attraction. A real bummer, this - I was so looking forward to Kyle's story having been curious over Kyle's reason to hide part of his face with his fireman helmet (if you've been following this series, you'd get my meaning).
Not to say the overall idea was bad though. I was keen on how Gabriella, a single mother of an adopted god daughter with deaf cat and old dog from Texas, would fare in Marietta. The opening chapter with her arrival in the town was quite hilariously entertaining, too. Alas, after such promising beginning the delivery of the rest of the story really turned me off. So crushed that I actually couldn't figure how to rate this book. Yes, there's a happy-ever-after for the protagonists in the end, but it wasn't something this reader's excited about.
Advanced copy of this book is kindly provided by the author/publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
The flow of the story was too erratic to my liking, though. I also couldn't seem to warm up to either main characters nor to their very instant attraction. A real bummer, this - I was so looking forward to Kyle's story having been curious over Kyle's reason to hide part of his face with his fireman helmet (if you've been following this series, you'd get my meaning).
Not to say the overall idea was bad though. I was keen on how Gabriella, a single mother of an adopted god daughter with deaf cat and old dog from Texas, would fare in Marietta. The opening chapter with her arrival in the town was quite hilariously entertaining, too. Alas, after such promising beginning the delivery of the rest of the story really turned me off. So crushed that I actually couldn't figure how to rate this book. Yes, there's a happy-ever-after for the protagonists in the end, but it wasn't something this reader's excited about.
Advanced copy of this book is kindly provided by the author/publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
April 20, 2017
The last installment of the Men of Marietta, has Kyle, firefighter/paramedic as Mr October. Gabriella is new to Marietta, moving from Texas in the winter as the new owner of the Diner. Kyle and Gabriella our neighbors and there is a spark between the two immediately. Gabriella is looking for a new start with her teenage daughter and not looking for love. Kyle has a big secret that needs to share with Gabriella but has not found the perfect time to share, will it be to late once the calendar goes viral.
Loved these characters. Gabriella is a very strong independent lady. How can you not love Kyle, a sexy firefighter/paramedic. Excited for the new diner in Marietta, hopefully will see it again. I'm so sad to see this series end. I highly recommend this book along with the rest of the series.
Loved these characters. Gabriella is a very strong independent lady. How can you not love Kyle, a sexy firefighter/paramedic. Excited for the new diner in Marietta, hopefully will see it again. I'm so sad to see this series end. I highly recommend this book along with the rest of the series.
April 15, 2017
I really enjoy it when a group of authors get together and write a series. We get to see so much talent this way.
April 25, 2017
Burning with Desire is the final book in the Men of Marietta series. I have loved this series. Read the entire series to appreciate the hot calendar project and all the secondary characters.
May 19, 2017
Reviewed at Keeper Bookshelf
Burning With Desire brings the Men of Marietta series to a close with a solid, engaging story of three newcomers to Marietta looking to start over. This town with a heart as big as the Copper Mountain that overlooks it is certainly a great place to find a fresh beginning for any reason.
Kyle has found something here that he cannot find elsewhere, invisibility. Here everyone knows his as the new guy in town, the firefighter, the EMT and unfortunately one of the guys on that calendar. The press hasn’t discovered him as of yet, but that’s always a possibility considering the notoriety of his birth and his parents. He’s of two minds about that calendar – yeah, money to help get Harry’s House up and running is a goal that every person in town is behind, yet if the wrong person sees his face on that spread… well, he’s hoping that won’t happen from a small town calendar. Yeah, more like wishful thinking. The arrival of his new next door neighbor puts those thoughts out of his head, at least for the most part. Gabriella and her daughter, Trinity are much more pleasant to think about than being discovered.
Gabriella is in an almost desperate need of a new start. Not a do over, no that’s not going to happen. But she can build again in this new town far from the problems and people who have hurt her, tried to harm her and control her. Here she and Trinity can make a new base. As the owner of the local diner she’s guaranteed to build a community around herself and her daughter that will protect them from the past – or at least that is her hope. One huge added bonus, her new next door neighbor, Kyle. If there ever was a welcome sight at the end of the day it would be that man. Now she has to decide how much of her past she’s going to bring into her future – trouble is, that decision is not always in our own hands.
I enjoyed Gabby and Kyle’s story. The drama comes from outside sources, and it only brings these two closer in the end. It’s always enjoyable to catch up on other couples at the ending of a series, and this one was no exception. Harry’s House is going to help a lot of kids in Marietta, and it’s going to be interesting to see how this location plays out in future series based in this much loved community. I can’t say that the series ended with a bang, but it did end with a satisfying closure that leaves open doors for the future. And that’s what community is all about.
I’d recommend Burning With Desire to any Romance reader. A solid story, a few issues to be dealt with, believable plot lines and secondary characters who make the story more realistic, and yes, even comfortable.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
Burning With Desire brings the Men of Marietta series to a close with a solid, engaging story of three newcomers to Marietta looking to start over. This town with a heart as big as the Copper Mountain that overlooks it is certainly a great place to find a fresh beginning for any reason.
Kyle has found something here that he cannot find elsewhere, invisibility. Here everyone knows his as the new guy in town, the firefighter, the EMT and unfortunately one of the guys on that calendar. The press hasn’t discovered him as of yet, but that’s always a possibility considering the notoriety of his birth and his parents. He’s of two minds about that calendar – yeah, money to help get Harry’s House up and running is a goal that every person in town is behind, yet if the wrong person sees his face on that spread… well, he’s hoping that won’t happen from a small town calendar. Yeah, more like wishful thinking. The arrival of his new next door neighbor puts those thoughts out of his head, at least for the most part. Gabriella and her daughter, Trinity are much more pleasant to think about than being discovered.
Gabriella is in an almost desperate need of a new start. Not a do over, no that’s not going to happen. But she can build again in this new town far from the problems and people who have hurt her, tried to harm her and control her. Here she and Trinity can make a new base. As the owner of the local diner she’s guaranteed to build a community around herself and her daughter that will protect them from the past – or at least that is her hope. One huge added bonus, her new next door neighbor, Kyle. If there ever was a welcome sight at the end of the day it would be that man. Now she has to decide how much of her past she’s going to bring into her future – trouble is, that decision is not always in our own hands.
I enjoyed Gabby and Kyle’s story. The drama comes from outside sources, and it only brings these two closer in the end. It’s always enjoyable to catch up on other couples at the ending of a series, and this one was no exception. Harry’s House is going to help a lot of kids in Marietta, and it’s going to be interesting to see how this location plays out in future series based in this much loved community. I can’t say that the series ended with a bang, but it did end with a satisfying closure that leaves open doors for the future. And that’s what community is all about.
I’d recommend Burning With Desire to any Romance reader. A solid story, a few issues to be dealt with, believable plot lines and secondary characters who make the story more realistic, and yes, even comfortable.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
May 14, 2017
For anyone who doesn’t know the background to this series, the key characters for this new series are the hunky first responders – cowboys, firefighters, medics, lawmen, pilots, etc – who are to pose for a calendar to raise money to help fund the development of Harry’s house, a community driven project to honour Harry who was tragically killed whilst trying to help an elderly couple. The project is to develop a safe place for children to go before and after school, a place where they can have support, activities and so much more whenever they need it.
In this, the fifth story in the series, a single Mum with her teenage daughter move in to take over the Main Street Diner in Marietta. They’re wary, unsure, but ready for a fresh start. The Mum is Gabriella Marcos, a talented chef who is determined to make a success of her new business and to give her daughter, Trinity, the chance to make a fresh start away from the peers who bullied her at her previous school. They’re independent and want to prove it to the extended but close family they have left behind and Gabriella is definitely not looking for a man to save and protect her!
Kyle Cavasos moved to Marietta about a year ago and loves life in the close community. He’s a Navy vet and fireman, with no hints of his parents and past. He’s loving the chance to be just one of the first responders, no press, no cameras, no paparazzi. He’s not looking for a relationship or woman in his life. He’s posed for the calendar to raise money for Harry’s House but really hopes he’ll not be identified so he can keep his secrets . . .
Kyle and Gabriella are instantly aware of each other and their attraction grows, reluctantly but surely through the story. There are secrets that could destroy their potential relationship and plenty of angst and turmoil. Some of the connections between them which are revealed (not giving any more details, don’t want to give any spoilers) seem beyond belief or clichéd but it is fiction, after all, so just go with the flow. The importance of a supportive community, people working together, is demonstrated throughout the story, especially as Kyle uses his connections to help Trinity settle in.
I’ve enjoyed all the books in the series and highly recommend checking out the earlier novels, too. I’m impressed again by how well this publisher manages to get a group of authors to each write their own story to contribute to a series involving events, locations and people from each other’s books. I hope there will be more series in future which will let readers know how Harry’s House develops and supports young people in this community as well as updating us on what some of the characters we’ve read about are getting on!
I requested and was gifted a copy of this book via NetGalley and this is my honest opinion after choosing to read it.
In this, the fifth story in the series, a single Mum with her teenage daughter move in to take over the Main Street Diner in Marietta. They’re wary, unsure, but ready for a fresh start. The Mum is Gabriella Marcos, a talented chef who is determined to make a success of her new business and to give her daughter, Trinity, the chance to make a fresh start away from the peers who bullied her at her previous school. They’re independent and want to prove it to the extended but close family they have left behind and Gabriella is definitely not looking for a man to save and protect her!
Kyle Cavasos moved to Marietta about a year ago and loves life in the close community. He’s a Navy vet and fireman, with no hints of his parents and past. He’s loving the chance to be just one of the first responders, no press, no cameras, no paparazzi. He’s not looking for a relationship or woman in his life. He’s posed for the calendar to raise money for Harry’s House but really hopes he’ll not be identified so he can keep his secrets . . .
Kyle and Gabriella are instantly aware of each other and their attraction grows, reluctantly but surely through the story. There are secrets that could destroy their potential relationship and plenty of angst and turmoil. Some of the connections between them which are revealed (not giving any more details, don’t want to give any spoilers) seem beyond belief or clichéd but it is fiction, after all, so just go with the flow. The importance of a supportive community, people working together, is demonstrated throughout the story, especially as Kyle uses his connections to help Trinity settle in.
I’ve enjoyed all the books in the series and highly recommend checking out the earlier novels, too. I’m impressed again by how well this publisher manages to get a group of authors to each write their own story to contribute to a series involving events, locations and people from each other’s books. I hope there will be more series in future which will let readers know how Harry’s House develops and supports young people in this community as well as updating us on what some of the characters we’ve read about are getting on!
I requested and was gifted a copy of this book via NetGalley and this is my honest opinion after choosing to read it.
February 22, 2018
Burning with Desire by Patricia Fischer
Gabby and her teen daughter leave TX and arrive in Marietta, MT to start over again. She bought the diner and hopes to settle in.
Next door neighbor, Kyle is a firefighter among a lot of other jobs and he helps show them around.
Like how they fit in and help with community goals. She has special secret recipes and hopes the others in town will love them. She has some changes she wants to make to the diner but she wants all the waitresses to stay on.
She grows to like Kyle as he's just what she needs. Learn more about Trinity and how she's welcomed in town and with the other teens. They are not used to the weather but Kyle's pitch in for outside clothing.
She also buys food from local shops and farms. We also learn more about his family that he keeps hidden because they are not who he is.
Predictable and lots of steamy sex scenes.
Like also how the town descriptions are displyed-as they are in other books-they are where they are, in right order.
Love all the charity work, calendars, cooking etc and learning what new things are going on with others in town as I do follow some of the other characters via other books by other authors.
Loved the confrontation at the end-make all things come together. Twists and turns. Other works by the author and bio at the end.
Received this review copy from the author as a free download and this is my honest opinion.
Gabby and her teen daughter leave TX and arrive in Marietta, MT to start over again. She bought the diner and hopes to settle in.
Next door neighbor, Kyle is a firefighter among a lot of other jobs and he helps show them around.
Like how they fit in and help with community goals. She has special secret recipes and hopes the others in town will love them. She has some changes she wants to make to the diner but she wants all the waitresses to stay on.
She grows to like Kyle as he's just what she needs. Learn more about Trinity and how she's welcomed in town and with the other teens. They are not used to the weather but Kyle's pitch in for outside clothing.
She also buys food from local shops and farms. We also learn more about his family that he keeps hidden because they are not who he is.
Predictable and lots of steamy sex scenes.
Like also how the town descriptions are displyed-as they are in other books-they are where they are, in right order.
Love all the charity work, calendars, cooking etc and learning what new things are going on with others in town as I do follow some of the other characters via other books by other authors.
Loved the confrontation at the end-make all things come together. Twists and turns. Other works by the author and bio at the end.
Received this review copy from the author as a free download and this is my honest opinion.
May 13, 2017
I enjoyed Burning With Desire, the final book in the Men Of Marietta series, though I did think it stretched the realms of possibility and coincidence just a bit. Still this is fiction and in fiction anything is possible including that your gorgeous new neighbour just happens to own the resort where you used to work. The chemistry between Gabriella Marcos, the new owner of the Main Street Diner and Kyle Cavasos, first responder and son of Hollywood royalty, is immediate. I liked both characters though I do wish authors wouldn't keep referring to women's panties as a means of trying to show a visceral reaction. It feels clichéd and a bit overdone to me. I also got a bit bored with the thought bubbles that popped up through the story. Despite these misgivings, the story is an appealing one and the plot moves fairly well. It's one of those books you could curl up with on a lazy afternoon and enjoy without having to put too much effort in.
May 25, 2017
Received an ARC for my fair review for netgalley. I do enjoy the stories of Marietta, and love the men. This one was probably my least favorite. We have Gabriella the new owner of the diner in Marietta, along she and her teenage daughter, Trinity, who move in next to Kyle, one of the first responders who is also taking part of the calendar to help raise money for Harry's house. Kyle is private and is also hiding some secrets, wanting to live a normal life. He and Gabriells have chemistry, but will the calendar bring things to light? How will this affect them? I am sad to read ending of series, truly enjoyed the town and the people. I think my favorite was the Pilot one...Don't miss out.
May 26, 2017
I have enjoyed the entire Men of Marietta series. Getting to know everyone in the town of Marietta through the books makes these books have a more personal feel, as if you are really there meeting them in person. You learn the history of the town and how beautiful it really is. Everyone in the town is so welcoming and warm, even to those they see as outsiders initially. This was a story of starting over after bad breaks in life. Gabriella and her adopted teen daughter Trinity uproot from their family in Texas to move to Marietta, Montana. Life initially looks rough, but the help of a next door neighbor (firefighter/paramedic/outsider) Kyle Cavasos helps them settle in to their new lives and home. You won't go wrong reading the last of the series.
June 14, 2017
When the chance to buy the Main Street Diner falls into her lap, Gabriella decides it's the answer to all her problems, packs up and leaves Texas for Marietta. For her, its a new start that also protects her teen-aged daughter and also the jobs of her family members and gives her a place to showcase her abilities in her own right. Montana isn't quite what she expected, and meeting her new neighbor in an embarrassing manner is just icing on the cake.
Kyle has found his place in Marietta as a first responder. He is out of the spotlight and content. He has even agreed to be a part of the calendar to benefit Harry's House, to honor the man who helped him settle in. When he meets his new neighbor, he is instantly intrigued.
I really liked Gabriella, her strength and her determination to make things better for her daughter, no matter what it takes, are impressive. Kyle is an all around good guy. I like the two of them together, although there are a few things that are so coincidental that they border on unbelievable.
Overall, a fun story that can stand alone, but is a great addition to the series. I am just sorry to see it end!
*I received an advanced copy from the publisher via NetGalley. My opinions are my own and freely given.
Kyle has found his place in Marietta as a first responder. He is out of the spotlight and content. He has even agreed to be a part of the calendar to benefit Harry's House, to honor the man who helped him settle in. When he meets his new neighbor, he is instantly intrigued.
I really liked Gabriella, her strength and her determination to make things better for her daughter, no matter what it takes, are impressive. Kyle is an all around good guy. I like the two of them together, although there are a few things that are so coincidental that they border on unbelievable.
Overall, a fun story that can stand alone, but is a great addition to the series. I am just sorry to see it end!
*I received an advanced copy from the publisher via NetGalley. My opinions are my own and freely given.
January 25, 2018
I have enjoyed the entire Men of Marietta series. Getting to know everyone in the town of Marietta through the books makes these books have a more personal feel, as if you are really there meeting them in person. You learn the history of the town and how beautiful it really is. Everyone in the town is so welcoming and warm, even to those they see as outsiders initially. This was a story of starting over after bad breaks in life. Gabriella and her adopted teen daughter Trinity uproot from their family in Texas to move to Marietta, Montana. Life initially looks rough, but the help of a next door neighbor (firefighter/paramedic/outsider) Kyle Cavasos helps them settle in to their new lives and home. You won't go wrong reading the last of the series.
May 7, 2018
Burning With Desire is a fantastic contemporary romance by Patricia W. Fischer. Ms. Fischer has delivered a book that is well-written and loaded with amazing characters. Gabriella and her adopted daughter move to Marietta where Gabriella has bought a diner. Kyle is a firefighter and is their neighbor. Gabriella and Kyle's story is loaded with drama, humor, smokin' hot sexy bits and a bit of suspense. I enjoyed reading Burning With Desire and look forward to reading more from Patricia W. Fischer in the future. Burning With Desire is book 5 of the Men of Marietta Series but can be read as a standalone. This is a complete book, not a cliff-hanger.
February 26, 2018
This book started out strong, but then it went weird and wrapped in the blink of an eye. There was so much material here and I loved the beginning including the sort of "meet-cute". I needed more from this book - more interaction between the main characters (show me don't just tell me about it), more time to let things come together, more time for the big conflict and more time for the redemption.
I realized halfway through that I'd read another book in this series (maybe the first) and it did a better job of not rushing the plot.
I realized halfway through that I'd read another book in this series (maybe the first) and it did a better job of not rushing the plot.
April 4, 2018
Too much lust
Another book I couldn't bother finishing. This is well-written enough, and the characters are interesting enough, but they were so fixated on sexual attraction that I got bored halfway through. Add to that the overdone "Secrets are a deal-breaker" -- "I hope she doesn't find out" plot and I decided I'd rather clean the bathroom. While this author shows promise, her skills need a lot of work before I will want to read another book by her.
Another book I couldn't bother finishing. This is well-written enough, and the characters are interesting enough, but they were so fixated on sexual attraction that I got bored halfway through. Add to that the overdone "Secrets are a deal-breaker" -- "I hope she doesn't find out" plot and I decided I'd rather clean the bathroom. While this author shows promise, her skills need a lot of work before I will want to read another book by her.
September 22, 2018
This was a quick, enjoyable read.
Kyle is a firefighter who is trying to make a name for himself away from his family in the Hollywood spotlight.
Gabriella is a chef who buys the local diner and is trying to make a fresh start with her daughter, Trinity.
They meet on Gabriella’s first day in town and sparks fly immediately.
Will their pasts stand in the way of romance and eventually, love?
Kyle is a firefighter who is trying to make a name for himself away from his family in the Hollywood spotlight.
Gabriella is a chef who buys the local diner and is trying to make a fresh start with her daughter, Trinity.
They meet on Gabriella’s first day in town and sparks fly immediately.
Will their pasts stand in the way of romance and eventually, love?
August 30, 2019
Enjoyable
This is the first story I’ve read by this author. I enjoyed the storyline, but I’m not a fan of couples jumping into bed a short time after they meet. I like Gabriella’s commitment to her family and wanting to keep them safe and secure and Kyle’s values about helping others in spite of his upbringing. There were several errors that better proofreading should have caught and a bit of bad language.
This is the first story I’ve read by this author. I enjoyed the storyline, but I’m not a fan of couples jumping into bed a short time after they meet. I like Gabriella’s commitment to her family and wanting to keep them safe and secure and Kyle’s values about helping others in spite of his upbringing. There were several errors that better proofreading should have caught and a bit of bad language.
May 31, 2017
Last of the Men of Marietta series with firefighter and chef. Gabriella must prove on new venture she and her daughter can accomplish while getting to know Kyle. Always enjoy this town and add in a fireman , makes it excellent book.
Ebook from netgalley and publishers with thanks. Opinions are entirely my own.
Ebook from netgalley and publishers with thanks. Opinions are entirely my own.
July 9, 2019
Discovering Your True Self
Kyle kept a low profile for a year living in Marietta before Gabriella came in town. She had reasons for leaving Texas and he had his reasons for keeping his family ties a secret. But due to the reconstruction of Harry's House and a fundraiser all these secrets are revealed. This is truly a love story you will not be able to put down.
Kyle kept a low profile for a year living in Marietta before Gabriella came in town. She had reasons for leaving Texas and he had his reasons for keeping his family ties a secret. But due to the reconstruction of Harry's House and a fundraiser all these secrets are revealed. This is truly a love story you will not be able to put down.
February 19, 2018
I would’ve given it a 0 star if I didn’t have the will to continue after about 30%.. but the ending was great, a very normal HEA.
The couple’s cute, the family’s nice.. but the plot line just moved too slowly at the beginning..
The couple’s cute, the family’s nice.. but the plot line just moved too slowly at the beginning..
February 26, 2018
Fun read, but...
Story dragged on, no real life changing secrets, insta-love. Very poorly edited and many timing issues when describing a scene. Cute story, HEA but could have been better.
Story dragged on, no real life changing secrets, insta-love. Very poorly edited and many timing issues when describing a scene. Cute story, HEA but could have been better.
March 23, 2018
KYLE & GABRIELL BOTH HAVE PROBLEMS WITH THEIR PARENTS, AMAZING HOW MANY PARENT JUST DON’T HAVE A CLUE. ONCE AGAIN I WONDERED WHY DO SOME PEOPLE EVEN HAVE CHILDREN. IF YOU’RE NOT HUNGRY WHEN YOU START READING YOU WILL BE WHILE YOU READ. SWEET-N-SEXY BUT A LITTLE PREDICTABLE AND REPETATIVE. ;D
July 8, 2017
Another great read
Enjoyed reading this book and reading about the characters and their story. Looking forward to reading more from this author
Enjoyed reading this book and reading about the characters and their story. Looking forward to reading more from this author
February 25, 2018
Terrific
I loved this story. I have read about Kyle's family in Patricia other series and have him finding happiness with Gabrielle in this'd one is wonderful.
I loved this story. I have read about Kyle's family in Patricia other series and have him finding happiness with Gabrielle in this'd one is wonderful.
March 15, 2018
Wished there was more of a story. Looked at each other and that was it.
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