Sparks fly when sassy firefighter Jilli meets her match in Amy K. McClung’s enemies-to-lovers romance.
When Sam and Jillian meet, the snark and sparks start to fly. Despite their intense attraction, words and actions are misunderstood, and miscommunication is rife. Will their stubbornness be their downfall or the start of something extraordinary?
Unable to stop them, I feel my eyebrows moving up and down in what is probably supposed to be sexy in my drunken mind, but from the crease in her forehead and scrunched-up nose, it reeks of creepy.
Moist towelettes are my brother’s answer to getting more sleep. He stays out late, snoozes the alarm an extra thirty minutes, and uses the sheets to cleanse his nether regions—his words, not mine.
Carrie’s sister missed her flight, and I live a short way from the church and happen to be her size. That’s what it boils down to. Her sister and I share the same voluptuous curves, the way Carrie put it. What she means is we are both built like linebackers with broad shoulders and hips to match.
Her eyes widen in shock. I fear I broke her when she stares at me as if I just asked her to burn her pompoms.
If I am dreaming, I’ll kill anyone who wakes me up.
My Review:
I love the role reversal in this storyline as the female lead character of Jillian was the most emotionally distant and closed off and also had the more physically demanding and macho job of a firefighter, while Sam, the male lead, was the more nurturing and thoughtful of the two and worked as a realtor. Both characters were invitingly quirky, highly appealing, and likable. Once they got past their initial antagonism they shared a playful manner with each other, love of all things Star Wars, and a clever and sardonic wit. I adored them and enjoyed their verbal sparring as well as their sweet and steamy romance. The premise was unique and interesting while the writing was engaging, cleverly amusing, and pleasantly entertaining.
So, Amy K. McClung confused me a little bit. Is A Little Spark a RomCom or just a romance? I voted for RomCom because there were times I literally laughed out loud. It was light, funny, serious and an extremely fun read for me. Loved it!
Hell, yeah! A female firefighter. A strong, take-no-nonsense woman. She stands on her own two feet in a profession that is lead by men. But, Jillian has proven her worth time and time again. But, the one thing she guards with her life is her heart. Being asked, at the absolute last minute to stand in at her ex-best-friend's wedding may be the worst or best thing that has ever happened to her. Time will only tell.
Sam is a hoot. God knows that he's tenacious and falling madly in love with Betty, um, I mean Jilli. He'll do just about anything for her. He was not ready for her in his life but, life has a funny way of giving you something that is totally unexpected. Especially when aliens attack.
Yes, Jillian is fighting the attraction, afraid to let go. Yes, Sam is not giving up on the person who could be his life. All it takes is one fire, Jillian pulling away and Sam is fighting his way back to the woman that he knows he can't life without.
I actually had a wonderful time reading A Little Spark. It was a little nerdy, a lot naughty and a whole lot of fun. Amy K. McClung wrote interesting and fun characters that had me smiling throughout the story. From the beginning, I knew that this book was going to be special and that I wasn't going to be able to put it down. The writing was fluid and the story line was fun. A little drama here and there put the seriousness into the story but Chewbacca put the fun and nerdy into it. I loved the story and can't wait to see what else this author has in store for us.
I love a good enemies-to-lovers romance, and the added twist of the female lead being a firefighter meant I was all over this one. I went in expected to be wowed, expecting to adore this book, and it seems I expected too much.
Don’t get me wrong, I did enjoy this one. It was a quick and enjoyable read, one I was able to get through in no time at all. I was interested by the characters and events, and was more than happy to keep turning the pages. That being said, it didn’t wow me. It was enjoyable, but it did not blow my mind. In other words, it wasn’t quite what I had expected it to be.
I think the biggest issue I had is that the story was not as developed as I would have liked it to be. The enemies-to-lovers aspect felt forced, rather than the developed intense feelings on both ends of the spectrum that we all like to see. Some of the details seemed to go by quite quickly, throwing us straight in rather than allowing us to watch how things develop.
I think, had this story been longer, allowing for a deeper look at certain aspects, I would have given this a four-star rating. As it stands, it was a three-point-five-star read that I opted to round down. It was fun, but I would have liked a wee bit more from it.
A Little Spark is the type of book that gives you the fuzzy feeling of butterflies in your tummy! Jillian is a badass firefighter who can take care of herself. She's also got a huge vulnerable side that leaves her pushing a certain man away. Sam is a realtor and a huge sweetheart. He's been burned before but is still happily searching for his "one". After a drunken meeting, a wedding, and an alien invasion we are shown one of the sweetest men in the world.
I floved this story. I laughed, I cried, I yelled, I fell in love. A lot is going on in this book. Relationships, friendships, so many good characters! Jillian and Sam's story is one you will fall in love with and one you will be begging for just one more glimpse of them. The writing and the characters keep you hooked and the banter is just icing on the cake!
Rcvd an ARC at no cost to author...This was a cute, fun read. We have Jillian a badass firefighter, you go girl I respected her from the get go. But then we also have Sam who was no slouch and I am happy that they met and we're able to spark they combustible chemistry. Grab a copy my friends and as always Enjoy!!!
Meeting Jillian at his brother's wedding is a pleasant surprise for Sam, but the pair don't get off to the best start. However, Sam isn't about to let a little miscommunication stop him from pursuing a relationship with the woman that tempts him more than any woman ever has. But when something big happens that leaves Sam needing to find a way to prove to Jillian she deserves to be happy, will his efforts be for nothing or will the pair achieve their happy ever after?
What a fun, attention-grabbing read Ms. McClung has penned in this read, which had me hooked from the very beginning, as the hero is determined to show his brother a good time before he gets married but still be the responsible one that gets him home and ready for the big day. Will Sam be a good best man and manage to get his brother to his wedding on time? However, it was from the moment the hero and heroine come face-to-face for the first time that had me smiling, as Sam doesn't make the best first impression and then when they meet again, he's determined to win Jillian over because there's something about her that he's intrigued by. Will Jillian give Sam a chance?
As for the dialogue, it was intense due to the main characters back stories and everything this couple face on their journey to happy ever after including what happens to one of them in their career and whether the hero can win the heroine over. Moreover, the heroine is strong, brave, hard-working and I loved how much of a challenge she provides the hero. Then again, her previous relationship taught her to be extra cautious and I could understand why she gives the hero a hard time in the beginning, considering the first time they meet and he wasn't at his best. While the hero, he also has been through tough times with an ex that was a self-centered woman that didn't deserve him, but I liked that he was willing to give another woman a chance because Jillian is good for him. I also liked the hero's charm and how he proves to the heroine that she has nothing to be jealous of because she's the woman for him. Yet, what I liked most of all about the hero was the close relationship he had with his brother and sister-in-law and how they offer advice that he needs when things get tough with Jillian.
Overall, Ms. McClung has delivered a superb read in this book where the chemistry and romance between this couple was delightful; and the ending had me loving the hero's words to convince Jillian that she deserves to be happy after what happens. I also liked the decision the heroine made when it came to her career, especially with the surprise she has for the hero. I would recommend A Little Spark by Amy K. McClung, if you enjoy the opposites attract trope or books by authors Stacy Borel, Kim Karr, Marie Harte and Marquita Valentine.
Sam Warner is ready for his brother Harrison to get married but the antics of the previous night leave him a little worse for wear. But at the wedding he meets a beautiful woman who peaks his interest but unfortunately he doesn’t get her number before she is gone. Lieutenant Jillian Hartford is asked at the last moment to fill in as a bridesmaid at her friend Carrie’s wedding when Carrie’s sister is unable to make her flight. She is a firefighter and used to be underestimated but she has a huge heart and therefore fills in to help Carrie out but nothing prepares her for the attitude of Sam. When Jillian ends up rescuing Sam out of a bad situation will the two work through their animosity and find their own happiness or will things spiral out of control and their own personal demons get the best of them? This was another great book by the author! I truly loved both of these characters and I was wondering how each of their backgrounds would influence a possible relationship. I absolutely loved Sam when he took sleeping pills and I don’t know if the author wrote this from personal experience but it was so great! Sam had a bad relationship in the past and as we learn more it makes more sense on why he is guarded. I was mad at Anya for sure but at the same time it led him to Jillian eventually. Sam was such a hard worker, but I thought it was awesome when he realized the importance of other things as well. Jillian was a great character and I loved how tough she was with her occupation as a firefighter. I also loved the other side of her which she demonstrated at the hospital when she brought Sam with her. But Jillian also had insecurities which we saw a few times which jeopardized her relationship with Sam. Towards the end of the book I was freaking out with the events and I wondered what was going to happen. I knew Jillian would push Sam away and blame herself but I had faith in Sam! The wedding made me laugh so hard!! Looking forward to more from this author and hopefully more with any of these characters! - By Rebecca
A Little Spark is a book you can curl up on the couch with and get completely wrapped up in. McClung bought the heat, the sass, and such a beautiful story. I loved this book from beginning to end, and was Jillian and Sam's biggest cheerleader. I highly recommend you check out this fun, flirty story.
kismet, is what I would call it. That is how Jillian and Sam found each other. Two paths leading into one. Jillian, a fire fighter and tough as nails. She kind of has to be in her professional life, but in her personal Jillian is so incredible vulnerable and untrusting in her personal life. Sam is co owner of a real estate company with his brother. Sam is charismatic, and so sure of himself. He is everything Jillian needs, but is she ready to accept it?
I don't want to give any of the story away, so if you're intrigued, you should grab this wee gem and devour it. I did. It's one of those reads that give misty eyes and all those lovey-dovey sweet swoony moments, and that is why I love romance novels.
Jillian is a firefighter who can take care of herself, as she's been doing it for a long time. However, she's built up walls for relationship, as her last one was bad. She's lonely, but that doesn't stop her from keeping men out. Sam has been burned in his past relationship as well, but when he meets Jillian, he knows that he wants to make her his, but her walls are high. Will he be able to scale them? A Little Spark was a great story that hijacked all of my attention cover to cover. Jillian was a different kind of heroine who was seriously bad a**, as there's not much a man can do that she can't. And Sam was super sexy, plus not a being man whore had me falling for him instantly. The two together had sparks for days, so when they ignited, they lit the sheets up! And the cast of secondaries only added to the story, especially with serious humor that kept me laughing. With a twist that turned my f-bomb dropping on, this was a fantastic story from the very talented Amy K. McClung. I CANNOT WAIT for more, and HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND TO ALL!
This was such a lot of fun to read! It was full of wit, humour and plenty of sass.
Sam has a massive case of foot in mouth syndrome around Jillian. In fact he doesn't even need to try, it naturally happens. So refreshing to see the male character stumble in this way!
Firefighter Jillian wants to make a difference and fighting fire and saving people is her way of achieving this. Never having to worry about anyone but herself, she puts herself in danger regularly, showing courage, determination and confidence throughout. Sam slowly chips away at the walls she has built with his tenacity and confidence, given his ability to find himself in embarrassing situations.
A little spark is all that's needed to turn into a raging fire between them. I loved Sam, not just for his actions that brings a laugh, but for this his patience with Jillian. *Sigh*
Sam and his brother Harrison own a real estate company. At his brother’s wedding, for the first time in a long time Sam meets a woman who intrigues him but when she leaves before he can get her contact info he isn’t sure how to track her down.
Jillian is a Lieutenant at the fire department and professionally she has proven that she is more than capable to handle her job however personally she has trust and self confidence issues.
Sam and Jillian meet again under the most unlikely of circumstances and now that he has found her again he is not about to let her leave without a fight but will she be willing to open her heart and realize that leaning on someone else doesn’t make you weak?
The author has managed to combine drama, humorous banter and realistic characters into a heartwarming story. This is the first story that I have read by this author but it definitely won’t be my last.
A delightful book with a charming storyline and splendid characters, A Little Spark is an entertaining read. Amy K. McClung’s writing is clever and has all the elements need for a enjoyable time.
Jillian is not a woman to be messed with. A firefighter who knows who she is and what she wants, she goes at life full force. She has some vulnerabilities that we get to see but Jillian is definitely a kick butt, no nonsense woman.
Sam made my heart skip a beat. Strong, sexy and full of charm, the man was ready to give Jillian not only what she needed, but what she didn’t know she wanted.
The beginning of their relationship was a hoot and from there it was a topsy-turvy road to their HEA. The interaction between these two was engaging. The banter was witty and entertaining. Secondary characters were delightful.
This is the kind of feel-good book that is an enjoyable read on a rainy afternoon. Jillian and Sam get off on the wrong foot, and the insults just go back and forth between them like crazy. But behind those barbs, somewhere in between his drunk fall, a last-minute wedding date and an alien invasion, there was an explosive attraction just simmering underneath the surface. And when these two finally got together, the spark between them was unstoppable.
Even when Jillian tried to push Sam away, he stuck to it, knowing that what they had was worth fighting for. He proved over and over again what a gentleman he was. This story was sassy and sweet, emotional and heartwarming. I fell in love with Jillian and Sam immediately, and loved the supporting characters Harrison and Carrie as well. Just an absolute delight.
I received an advanced copy and voluntarily left a review.
A strong heroine and a sexy charming hero...put them together and you get a romance that is full of sass, sparks, fun, and delicious, compelling lust! A Little Spark is entertainment at its FINEST. The banter is witty and full of funny snark and the sexual chemistry crackles with undeniable temptation. The characters are strong and the plot is a lot of fun.
I like a romance that feels fresh and wholesome while giving me good feelings and fun times. It was an honest to god hoot and I LOVED it. Amy K. Mcclung knows her stuff when it comes to sassy writing and she now has me hooked on her words!
I give A Little Spark a FIERY FIVE GLORIOUS SHOOTING STARS!
A Little Spark? These two make a lot of sparks right from the beginning. I was a bit confused about the enemies to lovers part in the blurb because seriously, Sam is the absolute sweetest guy. I don't think anyone could actually be enemies with him. They do have their differences, mostly coming from Jillian's insecurities and some misunderstandings, but this pair is so good together that you can't help but root for them. The author gives us plenty of feels - everything from laughter to tears to sharing in some heartbreak, but the witty banter quickly brightens things up before they get too heavy. This is my first read by Amy McClung, but it won't be my last. This engaging, fast-paced romance is one that I can easily recommend.
Sam and Jillian keep meeting in the most random of places. Although they are both instantly attracted to one another, they just can't seem to get along. Until Jillian saves Sam and they embark on a slow and tenuous relationship...
This book sounded like a fun read from the short blurb, but unfortunately I did not end up enjoying it. While the premise had promise, Sam and Jillian's characters fell a little flat. From the beginning their relationship didn't seem very authentic, and they had too many constant misunderstandings that resulted in the story failing to keep me engaged.
I received a complimentary copy of this book for my honest and unbiased review.
This is the first time in reading this author with the book itself pulling it to me. Sam and Jillian are the center of this one. Romance and a firefighter sounded like it would be a hot one to disappear in. Their story is one that you get your emotions played with also as it unfolds. It starts out even with the fire that fuels but it is slow to simmer. Both had their own stories but the two together write one of their own that this author is able to take us away. It is not all intense it also has humor sprinkled in it to create one delicious read.
I have so much love for these characters. First off, I LOVED that Jillian wasn't your typical short girl with a 'normal' job. She's a spunky and doesn't take sh!t from anyone. The fact that she's a firefighter who put her life on the line numerous times is perfection. Sam (Sammy as I like to call him) is an amazing dude. Despite everything that Jilli throws at him, he's steadfast in his feelings for her. Also, the inclusions of Star Wars made my inner nerd smile. If you're looking for a hot, sweet, and sassy romance, check out this book. Amy K. McClung is an author you don't want to miss.
This was my first book by Amy K. McClung but it will not be my last. Sam and Jilli were the best characters evet. Jilli is a kick butt firefighter but she doesnt need anyone but she does have a soft side which makes he push away the best man. Sam is amazing he been burned before but he still searching for the one. But these two just need to fight for her. I laughed i swooned and I cried. Love everything cant wait for more.
This was a quick, light read. There were times that I wished there were more depth to the story- some of the relationship between Jillian & Sam seemed to progress rather quickly, which I felt took away from the overall story. There are a few editing errors, but those were easy enough to look past. Overall, an enjoyable lighthearted romcom with a couple of unexpected twists.
The fireworks from these two was hilarious. Not just the snark and witty comebacks but the sexual chemistry was off the chain as well. Enjoyable read!!
I truly loved both of these characters and I was wondering how each of their backgrounds would influence a possible relationship.
I absolutely loved Sam when he took sleeping pills and I don’t know if the author wrote this from personal experience but it was so great! Sam had a bad relationship in the past and as we learn more it makes more sense on why he is guarded. I was mad at Anya for sure but at the same time it led him to Jillian eventually. Sam was such a hard worker, but I thought it was awesome when he realized the importance of other things as well.
Jillian was a great character and I loved how tough she was with her occupation as a firefighter. I also loved the other side of her which she demonstrated at the hospital when she brought Sam with her. But Jillian also had insecurities which we saw a few times which jeopardized her relationship with Sam.
Towards the end of the book I was freaking out with the events and I wondered what was going to happen. I knew Jillian would push Sam away and blame herself but I had faith in Sam!
The wedding made me laugh so hard!!
Looking forward to more from this author and hopefully more with any of these characters!
A Little Spark by Amy K. McClung is a fun, sassy romance filled with plenty of laugh out loud scenes! This was just a great read all around. I loved the sassiness and sarcasm between the main characters. Jillian is a firefighter who would be any man's fantasy hero and Sam is a sweet, down-to-earth realtor. When the two meet there is a little spark that continues to grow with their sexy back and forth sexually charged innuendos. Both characters are a little gun-shy from having prior relationships that left scars, but as usual love conquers all. The characters in this book are really great and the author does a wonderful job of making us want more of them!! I was given an ARC for my honest review of this book.
Received this book as an ARC and I just couldn't put it down. The chemistry between these characters was intense. I definitely cried and felt like I was right there with the characters throughout. I would definitely recommend this book to everyone because Amy never disappoints with her amazing talent.
I laughed, I cried and I smiled while reading this beautiful love story. I quickly fell in love with Jillian and Sam. All the characters were very well written.
Jillian and Sam's story will definitely give you laugh-out-loud moments! Female firefighter and a realtor, the spark between them is undeniable, and it's so much fun watching them venture this attraction!
This is my first story from the author, and I can say I would surely come back for more.
Amy K McClung writes real characters, strong women who don't intimidate the hero. Sarcastic, smart, fun and interesting. I love how you get to really know some of the secondary characters as well. It helps me to become even more invested in the story. Although there were quite a few ups and downs for Sam and Jilli this was a fun read. I definitely recommend this author!