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Braving the Heat #1
Simmering Heat
Where there’s smoke . . .
Spark
Growing up as the privileged daughter of two doctors, Jasmine Kingford always thought the housekeeper’s son was hot—and the feeling was mutual. But back then there were lines they couldn’t cross. Good thing they’re all grown up now—and in the same wedding party . . .
Blaze
As best man for a fellow firefighter, Leo Trask is floored to discover the maid-of-honor is a blast from his past. One that ignites fireworks that have been brewing for years. Soon enough, he and Jasmine are having a very private, all-night-long celebration of their own—and it’s clear neither wants it to end there . . .
Wildfire
Jasmine’s all too happy to finally shed her pampered princess demeanor with Leo. What she finds is a connection—and a complication—she didn’t expect. Leo’s the opposite of the nine-to-five guy she planned on. She wants a nursing career, kids, and a man who’s home by dinnertime. Leo’s an irresistible bad boy with a dangerous, unpredictable job. And he’s everything she never knew she wanted, and more . . .
Spark
Growing up as the privileged daughter of two doctors, Jasmine Kingford always thought the housekeeper’s son was hot—and the feeling was mutual. But back then there were lines they couldn’t cross. Good thing they’re all grown up now—and in the same wedding party . . .
Blaze
As best man for a fellow firefighter, Leo Trask is floored to discover the maid-of-honor is a blast from his past. One that ignites fireworks that have been brewing for years. Soon enough, he and Jasmine are having a very private, all-night-long celebration of their own—and it’s clear neither wants it to end there . . .
Wildfire
Jasmine’s all too happy to finally shed her pampered princess demeanor with Leo. What she finds is a connection—and a complication—she didn’t expect. Leo’s the opposite of the nine-to-five guy she planned on. She wants a nursing career, kids, and a man who’s home by dinnertime. Leo’s an irresistible bad boy with a dangerous, unpredictable job. And he’s everything she never knew she wanted, and more . . .
188 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 8, 2018
13 people are currently reading
480 people want to read
About the author
Leora Gonzales
42 books282 followersLeora is a former snake milker that now enjoys the okayest job of balancing motherhood and writing contemporary romance. *Some with a sci fi twist*
A sucker for dirty talk, both the sexy kind and the type that leads to the discovery of new curse words, Leora catches all the craziness in her head on the cracked screen of her laptop. Squeezed into a small workspace in her Florida garage, this author uses her imagination *and cannabis* to explore the worlds she has created.
Her work has been praised extensively by her mother—who pinky promised to read the sexy parts with her eyes closed—and ignored by the rest of her family. Some critics have made compelling statements about her work such as “foul mouthed woman” and “nothing more than porn”. When asked for a comment regarding those reviews, the author’s answer was, “f$&% yeah!” with an enthusiastic nod and accompanying finger guns shooting in the air.
Check her out at LeoraGonzales.com or on social media for updates, new releases and random little weirds she overshares when she’s bored.
A sucker for dirty talk, both the sexy kind and the type that leads to the discovery of new curse words, Leora catches all the craziness in her head on the cracked screen of her laptop. Squeezed into a small workspace in her Florida garage, this author uses her imagination *and cannabis* to explore the worlds she has created.
Her work has been praised extensively by her mother—who pinky promised to read the sexy parts with her eyes closed—and ignored by the rest of her family. Some critics have made compelling statements about her work such as “foul mouthed woman” and “nothing more than porn”. When asked for a comment regarding those reviews, the author’s answer was, “f$&% yeah!” with an enthusiastic nod and accompanying finger guns shooting in the air.
Check her out at LeoraGonzales.com or on social media for updates, new releases and random little weirds she overshares when she’s bored.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
March 26, 2018
Arc provided by NetGalley.
5 *FireBlazing* Stars!!
Holy wow I loved this. At first the heroine seemed like she was going to be this pushover. Then she later on stood up to her parents and she blew me away. And Leo I mean anyone who is a fan of Chicago Fire will see him as a character from this show. We also at the end get a sneak peak of a tiny bit of the next book. We meet the heroine and the hero but he’s not named. I’m so curious I can’t wait to read the next book!
5 *FireBlazing* Stars!!
Holy wow I loved this. At first the heroine seemed like she was going to be this pushover. Then she later on stood up to her parents and she blew me away. And Leo I mean anyone who is a fan of Chicago Fire will see him as a character from this show. We also at the end get a sneak peak of a tiny bit of the next book. We meet the heroine and the hero but he’s not named. I’m so curious I can’t wait to read the next book!
May 10, 2018
~~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads ~~
This is the first in a new series, and given that it will feature firefighters, some we've met already, it is going to be scorching hot!
I enjoyed reading this story, and was happy with the direction it took. Whilst Leo and Jasmine fall for each other pretty quickly, it fits with their past, his profession and the whirlwind that are Winter and Will. There were certainly some suitable candidates for future books introduced too.
The one funny thing was that I was distracted by it being written in the third person. Usually I have to think about who narrated the story, or didn't after I have finished the book, but here I was very aware of it all along. It didn't stop me enjoying the book, it was just noticeable, and unexpected.
There is some lovely humour, some warm and fuzzy bits, and some heated romance, which altogether made for an enjoyable read.
This is the first in a new series, and given that it will feature firefighters, some we've met already, it is going to be scorching hot!
I enjoyed reading this story, and was happy with the direction it took. Whilst Leo and Jasmine fall for each other pretty quickly, it fits with their past, his profession and the whirlwind that are Winter and Will. There were certainly some suitable candidates for future books introduced too.
The one funny thing was that I was distracted by it being written in the third person. Usually I have to think about who narrated the story, or didn't after I have finished the book, but here I was very aware of it all along. It didn't stop me enjoying the book, it was just noticeable, and unexpected.
There is some lovely humour, some warm and fuzzy bits, and some heated romance, which altogether made for an enjoyable read.
May 5, 2018
3.5 stars - I was given a copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
This is a sweet coming of age romance between a nurse and a firefighter. Jasmine is the child of two affluent and controlling doctors and Leo is the son of her parents’ housekeeper.
The connection between Leo and Jasmine is all sorts of instalove - except that while they are strangers when they meet as adults, they did grow up together. I still think Leo comes across almost stalkerish at the start with caveman declarations and velcro tendencies. Jasmine starts the story timid and flattered by Leo’s attention.
Even with their shared history, Leo and Jasmine’s romance moves too quickly for me. Conversations about love, jealousy and future babies happen almost from first meeting. There is an assumption from the start that they will be together and it doesn’t leave much room for sexual tension. Some of Leo’s lines are incredibly cheesy. There is a fine line between infatuated lover and possessive caveman and Leo steps over the line a few too many times for my tastes.
I enjoyed watching Jasmine grow up and establish herself against her parents. I like that her parents aren’t single dimensional baddies but some of the changes in her parents are drastic and instant. I’m not sure a lifetime of poor relationship habits can be broken so quickly.
This is a sweet coming of age romance between a nurse and a firefighter. Jasmine is the child of two affluent and controlling doctors and Leo is the son of her parents’ housekeeper.
The connection between Leo and Jasmine is all sorts of instalove - except that while they are strangers when they meet as adults, they did grow up together. I still think Leo comes across almost stalkerish at the start with caveman declarations and velcro tendencies. Jasmine starts the story timid and flattered by Leo’s attention.
Even with their shared history, Leo and Jasmine’s romance moves too quickly for me. Conversations about love, jealousy and future babies happen almost from first meeting. There is an assumption from the start that they will be together and it doesn’t leave much room for sexual tension. Some of Leo’s lines are incredibly cheesy. There is a fine line between infatuated lover and possessive caveman and Leo steps over the line a few too many times for my tastes.
I enjoyed watching Jasmine grow up and establish herself against her parents. I like that her parents aren’t single dimensional baddies but some of the changes in her parents are drastic and instant. I’m not sure a lifetime of poor relationship habits can be broken so quickly.
March 25, 2018
First, I won a free copy (kindle) from Good Reads. I've have not read this author before and wondering how I missed her! Great cover, great story. I loved it and now I'm hooked on checking out if there is more that I missed by Leora Gonzales.
I did try to leave my feed back on my kindle but it says I'm not authorized to rate or review this title. I guessing because they sent me a free copy. That's too bad. This was a great start for me to meet this authors work and I can't wait to read more.
I did try to leave my feed back on my kindle but it says I'm not authorized to rate or review this title. I guessing because they sent me a free copy. That's too bad. This was a great start for me to meet this authors work and I can't wait to read more.
June 6, 2018
This was a precious love story of two hearts who had no clue that they were waiting to be reunited. Jasmine Kingford had always thought that Leonard Trask truly disliked her.
She thought that when he was nice to her he had been forced to by his mother, Janet. The woman her parents called their housekeeper but she knew was so much more. To Jazz as Leonard called her she was her second, Mom. You see she never refer to her parents as mom and dad. They were mother and father to their faces. Behind their backs, they were Victoria and Reginald.
She did have a brother but he was fourteen years older and a doctor, like her parents, but he was with doctors without borders. Something her parents hated about him. Once he left home he really never came home again.
They wanted her to be a doctor and live up to their expectations. But she refused because she wanted to be a nurse. At her graduation was the last time she saw both Janet and Leonard. Then moved out and went to college. Got a roommate two years ago when her old roommate left she got a new one, Winter. She loves her like a sister. Well, she met a firefighter and fell in love. Now they have gotten engaged. Jazz is throwing them their engagement party but she is an hour late because she couldn’t tell her parents, NO! Again!
Once again she was their puppet. Walk, talk, dress, act, met, who they want her too. At twenty-six-years-old you would think she would say enough but, no! Well, she starts a new nursing job so she has to tell them soon. Meanwhile, she gets there and Will, Winter’s fiancé sneaks up on her. She jumps then hugs him. He is a good guy along with all the guys he works with. Sexy as hell too she has noticed.
Yet, she has never tried to Shag one. He tells her where Winter is and about all her family crazy shit to keep her away from before Winter blows a gasket. Jazz says she’s on it. Jazz steals her away to the bar they have a drink catch up. When a sexier than hell, tall, ok hair, blue-eyed, stud puts his arm around the shoulders of Winter. She screams, “Leo!”
His eyes never leave Jazz’s eyes. Winter says, “Jazz this is Leo, Leo this is Jazz.”
He says, “I know. We’ve met.” She looks at him with a puzzled look on her face.
He says, “You used to call me when you called me Leonard. And I called you Jasmine.”
She looks at him sideways then it clicks! Bingo! “Leonard Trask?! OH MY!”
“YUP!”
The next thing you know Winter is being called away to take care of crazy family business Jazz ask about his mom. He says she’s doing good and she’s living in Florida with her sister. For the two of them the night moves quickly they keep this spark moving that started at grad night and they wanted it badly but a fire had other plans. Leo wasn’t going to let her get away again he lets his mom’s words take root in his heart. Jazz was his she just hadn’t figured it out. The romance was what she needed. I give this: 5 stars. Provided by netgalley.com. Follow us at www.1rad-readerreviews.com.
She thought that when he was nice to her he had been forced to by his mother, Janet. The woman her parents called their housekeeper but she knew was so much more. To Jazz as Leonard called her she was her second, Mom. You see she never refer to her parents as mom and dad. They were mother and father to their faces. Behind their backs, they were Victoria and Reginald.
She did have a brother but he was fourteen years older and a doctor, like her parents, but he was with doctors without borders. Something her parents hated about him. Once he left home he really never came home again.
They wanted her to be a doctor and live up to their expectations. But she refused because she wanted to be a nurse. At her graduation was the last time she saw both Janet and Leonard. Then moved out and went to college. Got a roommate two years ago when her old roommate left she got a new one, Winter. She loves her like a sister. Well, she met a firefighter and fell in love. Now they have gotten engaged. Jazz is throwing them their engagement party but she is an hour late because she couldn’t tell her parents, NO! Again!
Once again she was their puppet. Walk, talk, dress, act, met, who they want her too. At twenty-six-years-old you would think she would say enough but, no! Well, she starts a new nursing job so she has to tell them soon. Meanwhile, she gets there and Will, Winter’s fiancé sneaks up on her. She jumps then hugs him. He is a good guy along with all the guys he works with. Sexy as hell too she has noticed.
Yet, she has never tried to Shag one. He tells her where Winter is and about all her family crazy shit to keep her away from before Winter blows a gasket. Jazz says she’s on it. Jazz steals her away to the bar they have a drink catch up. When a sexier than hell, tall, ok hair, blue-eyed, stud puts his arm around the shoulders of Winter. She screams, “Leo!”
His eyes never leave Jazz’s eyes. Winter says, “Jazz this is Leo, Leo this is Jazz.”
He says, “I know. We’ve met.” She looks at him with a puzzled look on her face.
He says, “You used to call me when you called me Leonard. And I called you Jasmine.”
She looks at him sideways then it clicks! Bingo! “Leonard Trask?! OH MY!”
“YUP!”
The next thing you know Winter is being called away to take care of crazy family business Jazz ask about his mom. He says she’s doing good and she’s living in Florida with her sister. For the two of them the night moves quickly they keep this spark moving that started at grad night and they wanted it badly but a fire had other plans. Leo wasn’t going to let her get away again he lets his mom’s words take root in his heart. Jazz was his she just hadn’t figured it out. The romance was what she needed. I give this: 5 stars. Provided by netgalley.com. Follow us at www.1rad-readerreviews.com.
May 9, 2018
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
I enjoyed this book. Leo and Jazz were basically raised together as his mother was the housekeeper for her family while she was growing up. Her parents are doctors who spent more time on their patients than with their children so in effect Leo's mom was Jazz's mom.
Leo wants to get to know the grown up Jazz. Wants to know what makes her tick, the reason she wants to be nurse and the million other things that makes Jazz unique. Jazz wants to know Leo as well, but she's still the insecure girl that he remembers even though she hides it well.
Having to face her fears or losing what she loves most, Jazz has to decide what truly matters.
~~Wicked Reads Review Team~~
I enjoyed this book. Leo and Jazz were basically raised together as his mother was the housekeeper for her family while she was growing up. Her parents are doctors who spent more time on their patients than with their children so in effect Leo's mom was Jazz's mom.
Leo wants to get to know the grown up Jazz. Wants to know what makes her tick, the reason she wants to be nurse and the million other things that makes Jazz unique. Jazz wants to know Leo as well, but she's still the insecure girl that he remembers even though she hides it well.
Having to face her fears or losing what she loves most, Jazz has to decide what truly matters.
~~Wicked Reads Review Team~~
April 26, 2018
I received Simmering Heat as part of a Goodreads giveaway.
Jasmine Kingsford has grown up under the weighty expectations of her doctor parents, and has often fallen short: she is single, overweight, and "only" a nurse. When she finds herself in the same wedding party as Leo Trask, the son of her family's housekeeper and her teenage crush, however, she feels like the most beautiful woman in the world. The two take up together, hot and heavy, which soon gives way to genuine feelings. But when push comes to shove, can Jasmine challenge her parents' prejudices and stand up for her newfound love?
Honestly, I didn't really feel much romance here. They were sleeping together, then all of a sudden they were in a relationship--there wasn't much in the way of progression/development of feelings. I also thought that Jasmine had a fairly unhealthy relationship with food. Do all of our heroes/heroines need to be size zeroes? Hell no. But the other extreme is also troubling, and eating everything in sight until you're ready to puke, then going our for biscuits and gravy is also not a healthy approach. There's plenty of room in the middle, and I'd like to see romance writers strike a better balance. Jasmine's parents also went from cartoonishly evil to incredibly loving and supportive at the drop of a hat. There just wasn't much in the way of character progression--everything seemed jerky and random. I don't think I'd read more from this series.
Jasmine Kingsford has grown up under the weighty expectations of her doctor parents, and has often fallen short: she is single, overweight, and "only" a nurse. When she finds herself in the same wedding party as Leo Trask, the son of her family's housekeeper and her teenage crush, however, she feels like the most beautiful woman in the world. The two take up together, hot and heavy, which soon gives way to genuine feelings. But when push comes to shove, can Jasmine challenge her parents' prejudices and stand up for her newfound love?
Honestly, I didn't really feel much romance here. They were sleeping together, then all of a sudden they were in a relationship--there wasn't much in the way of progression/development of feelings. I also thought that Jasmine had a fairly unhealthy relationship with food. Do all of our heroes/heroines need to be size zeroes? Hell no. But the other extreme is also troubling, and eating everything in sight until you're ready to puke, then going our for biscuits and gravy is also not a healthy approach. There's plenty of room in the middle, and I'd like to see romance writers strike a better balance. Jasmine's parents also went from cartoonishly evil to incredibly loving and supportive at the drop of a hat. There just wasn't much in the way of character progression--everything seemed jerky and random. I don't think I'd read more from this series.
March 30, 2018
This is a fast pace romance and even though it kept my attention I didn't really fall in love with the story or the characters. It was definitely steamy with lots of hot, naughty fire fighters but I wanted a little more depth to the characters. It was still a good read, I just felt like it was missing some oomph.
May 4, 2018
**I received an ARC of this book courtesy of Net Galley and the publisher. All opinions expressed in this review are my own and given freely**
Winnie made me laugh quite a bit in Melting Snow, so it was no surprise that she was the comic relief as Jazz’s best friend in this story. Jazz is a bit more serious, but that’s not to say she’s stuffy. The woman knows how to speak her mind…as long as it’s not with her parents. Those two have serious issues and it’s not wonder all of Jazz’s friends hate them, even the ones who never met them yet.
Since Jazz and Leo grew up together, in a way, there isn’t a lot of “getting to know you” that needs to be done. It’s more like, “what have you been up to in the last few years”. That allows them to jump into a relationship without a lot of hemming and hawing. Leo can be a bit too alpha-male, but he seems to at least know he’s overreacting to things, even if he hasn’t learned how to control that yet. Other than that, he is super sweet and giving and any woman’s dream man.
The conflict in this story comes from Jazz’s life vision being more of the traditional house with a white picket fence, 2.5 kids, and a husband that comes home every night after working in an office. Well, we all know a firefighter doesn’t work “regular” hours. Then there are Jazz’s parent’s expectations of her. It seems no matter what she does, it’s not good enough for them. Jazz is a people pleaser so she tends to go along with everything they say. The only push back she ever really gave was refusing to go to med school when she wanted to be a nurse. But her feelings for Leo push her to finally speak her mind with her parents, and it’s explosive.
What I found different about this story was the aftermath of Jazz’s confrontation with her parents. In many stories that have this type of conflict, the hero or heroine tells their parents off and then cuts ties with their family to live a happier life. That’s not what happens here. That’s all I’ll say about it since I don’t like spoilers, but I liked the different slant this took.
The thing I wasn’t crazy about is hard to explain. I think it has to do with the author just needing to get more published works under her belt. There were areas that seemed a bit unpolished…extra words used where they weren’t need. I don’t mean too descriptive, more like repetitive within the same sentence. It wasn’t enough to ruin the story, by any means. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and look forward to the next one in the series.
https://allingoodtimeblog.wordpress.c...
Winnie made me laugh quite a bit in Melting Snow, so it was no surprise that she was the comic relief as Jazz’s best friend in this story. Jazz is a bit more serious, but that’s not to say she’s stuffy. The woman knows how to speak her mind…as long as it’s not with her parents. Those two have serious issues and it’s not wonder all of Jazz’s friends hate them, even the ones who never met them yet.
Since Jazz and Leo grew up together, in a way, there isn’t a lot of “getting to know you” that needs to be done. It’s more like, “what have you been up to in the last few years”. That allows them to jump into a relationship without a lot of hemming and hawing. Leo can be a bit too alpha-male, but he seems to at least know he’s overreacting to things, even if he hasn’t learned how to control that yet. Other than that, he is super sweet and giving and any woman’s dream man.
The conflict in this story comes from Jazz’s life vision being more of the traditional house with a white picket fence, 2.5 kids, and a husband that comes home every night after working in an office. Well, we all know a firefighter doesn’t work “regular” hours. Then there are Jazz’s parent’s expectations of her. It seems no matter what she does, it’s not good enough for them. Jazz is a people pleaser so she tends to go along with everything they say. The only push back she ever really gave was refusing to go to med school when she wanted to be a nurse. But her feelings for Leo push her to finally speak her mind with her parents, and it’s explosive.
What I found different about this story was the aftermath of Jazz’s confrontation with her parents. In many stories that have this type of conflict, the hero or heroine tells their parents off and then cuts ties with their family to live a happier life. That’s not what happens here. That’s all I’ll say about it since I don’t like spoilers, but I liked the different slant this took.
The thing I wasn’t crazy about is hard to explain. I think it has to do with the author just needing to get more published works under her belt. There were areas that seemed a bit unpolished…extra words used where they weren’t need. I don’t mean too descriptive, more like repetitive within the same sentence. It wasn’t enough to ruin the story, by any means. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and look forward to the next one in the series.
https://allingoodtimeblog.wordpress.c...
May 15, 2018
Oh my word, I loved this story!
I absolutely adored every moment and word of this hilarious, emotional, sweet, steamy - oh so so steamy - inspiring, love filled, poignant tale. The author is new to me, and I am immensely glad that I found this title on NetGalley and requested to read it for a review. What an interesting, fun, realistic, and intriguing world she has created!
Leo Trask with the rest of the firefighters creates a group of men who are just lovable. They are rowdy, they are lively, they are sexy, caring, wild, and daring, they love to serve the community, and they are dedicated to their careers.
And Leo... I am in love. His honesty, his straightforwardness, his caring, loving, stubborn, sexy self just won me over with the first scene. He knows what he wants, he is willing to fight for it, and he is not ashamed to announce his feelings and intentions to the whole world if that's what it takes. He faces the challenges with no fear, he is bold, daring, and tough, but also sweet, tender, thoughtful, generous, loyal, and faithful...
Jasmine Kingford might have grown with privileges, yet she is down to earth, kind, cordial, generous person who loves to take care of people around her. Her parents have neglected her, made demands towards her, have ruled her life as much as she has allowed. Yet she does know what she wants, she does go after her own dreams, and she does finally stand up for herself when her back is against the wall. I love that she was no 'model type of a perfect women', but a woman with curves and owning it.
I enjoyed the banter and bond between the friends. Jazz has a heart of gold, and it shows in all her relations. With Jazz and Leo, the bond comes from their childhood, the attraction from their teenage years, so it is no wonder that when they meet again, it is like a divine intervention and lightning hitting at the same time. The heat is immediate, sizzling hot, so sensual and dirty and rough and delightful it took my breath away.
But as scorching hot the chemistry is between Leo and Jazz, the emotions are as deep, profound, and meaningful. I laughed out loud, I swooned and sighed, I was even in tears, the emotional connection that I had with these characters was marvelous.
If you enjoy ardent, humorous, passionate romance with deep emotions, inspiring characters with incredible chemistry between them, family drama, and danger at the job site, check out Simmering Heat cause I am sure you are going to fall in love with it as much as I did...
~ Five Spoons!
I absolutely adored every moment and word of this hilarious, emotional, sweet, steamy - oh so so steamy - inspiring, love filled, poignant tale. The author is new to me, and I am immensely glad that I found this title on NetGalley and requested to read it for a review. What an interesting, fun, realistic, and intriguing world she has created!
Leo Trask with the rest of the firefighters creates a group of men who are just lovable. They are rowdy, they are lively, they are sexy, caring, wild, and daring, they love to serve the community, and they are dedicated to their careers.
And Leo... I am in love. His honesty, his straightforwardness, his caring, loving, stubborn, sexy self just won me over with the first scene. He knows what he wants, he is willing to fight for it, and he is not ashamed to announce his feelings and intentions to the whole world if that's what it takes. He faces the challenges with no fear, he is bold, daring, and tough, but also sweet, tender, thoughtful, generous, loyal, and faithful...
Jasmine Kingford might have grown with privileges, yet she is down to earth, kind, cordial, generous person who loves to take care of people around her. Her parents have neglected her, made demands towards her, have ruled her life as much as she has allowed. Yet she does know what she wants, she does go after her own dreams, and she does finally stand up for herself when her back is against the wall. I love that she was no 'model type of a perfect women', but a woman with curves and owning it.
I enjoyed the banter and bond between the friends. Jazz has a heart of gold, and it shows in all her relations. With Jazz and Leo, the bond comes from their childhood, the attraction from their teenage years, so it is no wonder that when they meet again, it is like a divine intervention and lightning hitting at the same time. The heat is immediate, sizzling hot, so sensual and dirty and rough and delightful it took my breath away.
But as scorching hot the chemistry is between Leo and Jazz, the emotions are as deep, profound, and meaningful. I laughed out loud, I swooned and sighed, I was even in tears, the emotional connection that I had with these characters was marvelous.
If you enjoy ardent, humorous, passionate romance with deep emotions, inspiring characters with incredible chemistry between them, family drama, and danger at the job site, check out Simmering Heat cause I am sure you are going to fall in love with it as much as I did...
~ Five Spoons!
December 3, 2018
Simmering Heat (Braving the Heat #1) by Leora Gonzales
4 stars
M/F Romance
I was given this book for an honest review by Wicked Reads.
Jasmine, or Jazz, as her friends call her, has always tried very hard to please everyone around her. She grew up in a house where she wanted for nothing, but the attention of her parents. Despite her upbringing, she loves her parents and wants to have their approval. But, when her best friend is getting married, she realizes that she wants someone too. What she doesn't want is her parents setting her up with men twice her age and a colleague of theirs. Their disappointment in her for being "just a nurse" hurts and she isn't quite sure what to do about it, other than live with it. When she meets the best man of her friend's wedding, she's pleasantly surprised that it's someone from her past.
Leo knew that Jazz was a lonely child growing up because he had some resentment that he had to share his mom. His mom was Jazz's maid, essentially. Now that he's seen Jazz all grown up, he's not going to let his fear get in the way. Advice his mom gave him when he was much younger has always stuck with him and he's going to take it to heart. He wants to stand by Jazz, be her person.
When miscommunication happens, both Jazz and Leo have to decide if what they were building is worth the risk. Wanting something to work and making it work are different things. I really enjoyed watching Jazz take control and also really enjoyed Leo stand up for what he believed. I can't wait to see what happens next!
4 stars
M/F Romance
I was given this book for an honest review by Wicked Reads.
Jasmine, or Jazz, as her friends call her, has always tried very hard to please everyone around her. She grew up in a house where she wanted for nothing, but the attention of her parents. Despite her upbringing, she loves her parents and wants to have their approval. But, when her best friend is getting married, she realizes that she wants someone too. What she doesn't want is her parents setting her up with men twice her age and a colleague of theirs. Their disappointment in her for being "just a nurse" hurts and she isn't quite sure what to do about it, other than live with it. When she meets the best man of her friend's wedding, she's pleasantly surprised that it's someone from her past.
Leo knew that Jazz was a lonely child growing up because he had some resentment that he had to share his mom. His mom was Jazz's maid, essentially. Now that he's seen Jazz all grown up, he's not going to let his fear get in the way. Advice his mom gave him when he was much younger has always stuck with him and he's going to take it to heart. He wants to stand by Jazz, be her person.
When miscommunication happens, both Jazz and Leo have to decide if what they were building is worth the risk. Wanting something to work and making it work are different things. I really enjoyed watching Jazz take control and also really enjoyed Leo stand up for what he believed. I can't wait to see what happens next!
July 3, 2018
I received a copy of the book in a Goodreads giveaway. I would give it 3.5/5 stars.
I actually really liked this book. Usually it takes me a bit to get into a book, but I jumped right into this one. Typical of a lot of romance books, Leo and Jasmine fall for each other fairly quickly. Usually this bothers me, but I didn't have as much of a problem with it in this case because they were basically raised together. That said, I think it would have been more plausible if they had gone on a few dates before Leo was calling her his woman (instead of one makeout session). I also liked that the main tension centered around his job and not some stupid misunderstanding at the last minute. I would have liked a little more conversation about it after the fact as I felt that conflict was resolved pretty easily. I loved that Jasmine is a size 14 and it isn't dwelled upon. She's happy with herself and isn't self conscious. That was really refreshing. The only real issue I had was between Jasmine and her parents. I have a very opinionated family member and, I'm sorry, but one conversation is not going to undo 26 years of controlling behavior. I really found the conversation between Jasmine and her mom hard to believe. And the conversation between Leo and her father was even more farfetched. Other than that, I really did enjoy this book.
I actually really liked this book. Usually it takes me a bit to get into a book, but I jumped right into this one. Typical of a lot of romance books, Leo and Jasmine fall for each other fairly quickly. Usually this bothers me, but I didn't have as much of a problem with it in this case because they were basically raised together. That said, I think it would have been more plausible if they had gone on a few dates before Leo was calling her his woman (instead of one makeout session). I also liked that the main tension centered around his job and not some stupid misunderstanding at the last minute. I would have liked a little more conversation about it after the fact as I felt that conflict was resolved pretty easily. I loved that Jasmine is a size 14 and it isn't dwelled upon. She's happy with herself and isn't self conscious. That was really refreshing. The only real issue I had was between Jasmine and her parents. I have a very opinionated family member and, I'm sorry, but one conversation is not going to undo 26 years of controlling behavior. I really found the conversation between Jasmine and her mom hard to believe. And the conversation between Leo and her father was even more farfetched. Other than that, I really did enjoy this book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 26, 2018
The first book in Leora Gonzales Brave the Heat series (there is a .5 - Melting Snow) and is very simply amazing! Simmering Heat brings together Leo and Jazz, and opens the door to a plethora of memories from years gone past. Leo is a mountain of a man with a gentle heart, while Jazz is a curvy spitfire, who definitely isn’t looking for a relationship with a firefighter.
This story tells of a history neither realised they had until their official first meeting, and the simmering fire that has now ignited into a blazing passion. Both characters are endearing and totally loveable, but while fighting their attraction may be impossible, can they overcome the influence of demanding parents and social stigma to find their HEA?
Simmering Heat is a wonderful story with an easy to follow plot and some favourites characters in the support cast too. I can’t wait to see who falls next.
This story tells of a history neither realised they had until their official first meeting, and the simmering fire that has now ignited into a blazing passion. Both characters are endearing and totally loveable, but while fighting their attraction may be impossible, can they overcome the influence of demanding parents and social stigma to find their HEA?
Simmering Heat is a wonderful story with an easy to follow plot and some favourites characters in the support cast too. I can’t wait to see who falls next.
March 30, 2018
Jasmine is a very colorful person, "...she passed yet another slow -moving truck . “Why is everyone driving like they’re ninety-effing -five?” she yelled to no one in particular." Leo isn't one for being shy, “so, you left my house this morning after I specifically asked you to stay just so you could make some ***k cookies,” Leo asked, uncaring that Winter and Will were now watching them with wide eyes." Leo was just one swoon-worthy man, “sugar, with you around I think dirty, I feel dirty, and I’m going to tell you all the dirty things I want to do to you,” I loved this book, Leo was quite the alpha man.
May 8, 2018
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It's a second chance story - sorta! Jasmine's the daughter of very affluent parents. Leo is the son of the housekeeper. As teenagers they were attracted to each other but certain lines just couldn't be crossed. Reunited years later they are free to explore what could have been.
I thought this book was very well done with an intriguing storyline, well developed and interesting characters and a nice easy pace to the story. This is definitely a book I'd recommend.
I thought this book was very well done with an intriguing storyline, well developed and interesting characters and a nice easy pace to the story. This is definitely a book I'd recommend.
April 25, 2018
This is a good, short story. The rich girl grew up with the maids son and they meet up again years later. She has parents that control all aspects of her life until she finally stands up for herself and they eventually comes around..
May 4, 2018
A Solid 3.5 Star Romance
Good story, hunky hero, fun secondary characters. Only major objection is that the characters frequently overstepped reason and said things that were a little silly and swoony. If you're looking for over-the-top romanticism, this might be the book for you.
Good story, hunky hero, fun secondary characters. Only major objection is that the characters frequently overstepped reason and said things that were a little silly and swoony. If you're looking for over-the-top romanticism, this might be the book for you.
April 12, 2019
I missed Jasmine and Leo's story when starting this series, but I'm so glad I went back and experienced their second chance at love. This entire series is phenomenal, and I would recommend it to anyone needing a great read!
March 26, 2018
I enjoyed the story between Jasmine and Leo. I really liked their shared history, and that their history didn’t hinder their new relationship at all. I liked the supporting characters. And while it may seem a bit far fetched that both of Jasmine’s parents had a change of heart after one conversation, I really liked that Leo was able to help with them and that things did get better. Really hot between them.
March 27, 2018
Fun read
Hot sweet love story. Crazy parents, stress of being with a firefighter and a sweet love story in one! Enjoyed this book.
Hot sweet love story. Crazy parents, stress of being with a firefighter and a sweet love story in one! Enjoyed this book.
January 28, 2019
This was funny and sweet. I liked Leo and Jazz and their crazy friends.
May 12, 2018
Check out our
Simmering Heat
post on Wicked Reads.
Reviews by the Wicked Reads Review Team
Sarah – ☆☆☆
3.5 stars
This is a sweet coming of age romance between a nurse and a firefighter. Jasmine is the child of two affluent and controlling doctors and Leo is the son of her parents’ housekeeper.
The connection between Leo and Jasmine is all sorts of insta-love – except that while they are strangers when they meet as adults, they did grow up together. I still think Leo comes across almost stalkerish at the start with caveman declarations and Velcro tendencies. Jasmine starts the story timid and flattered by Leo’s attention.
Even with their shared history, Leo and Jasmine’s romance moves too quickly for me. Conversations about love, jealousy, and future babies happen almost from first meeting. There is an assumption from the start that they will be together, and it doesn’t leave much room for sexual tension. Some of Leo’s lines are incredibly cheesy. There is a fine line between infatuated lover and possessive caveman and Leo steps over the line a few too many times for my tastes.
I enjoyed watching Jasmine grow up and establish herself against her parents. I like that her parents aren’t single dimensional baddies but some of the changes in her parents are drastic and instant. I’m not sure a lifetime of poor relationship habits can be broken so quickly.
Mary Jo – ☆☆☆☆
I enjoyed this book. Leo and Jazz were basically raised together as his mother was the housekeeper for her family while she was growing up. Her parents are doctors who spent more time on their patients than with their children, so in effect, Leo's mom was Jazz's mom.
Leo wants to get to know the grown up Jazz. Wants to know what makes her tick, the reason she wants to be nurse, and the million other things that makes Jazz unique. Jazz wants to know Leo as well, but she's still the insecure girl that he remembers even though she hides it well.
Having to face her fears or losing what she loves most, Jazz has to decide what truly matters.
Ruthie – ☆☆☆
This is the first in a new series, and given that it will feature firefighters, some we've met already, it is going to be scorching hot!
I enjoyed reading this story, and was happy with the direction it took. Whilst Leo and Jasmine fall for each other pretty quickly, it fits with their past, his profession, and the whirlwind that are Winter and Will. There were certainly some suitable candidates for future books introduced too.
The one funny thing was that I was distracted by it being written in the third person. Usually I have to think about who narrated the story, or didn't after I have finished the book, but here I was very aware of it all along. It didn't stop me enjoying the book, it was just noticeable and unexpected.
There is some lovely humour, some warm and fuzzy bits, and some heated romance, which altogether made for an enjoyable read.
Reviewers on the Wicked Reads Review Team were provided a free copy of Simmering Heat (Braving the Heat #1) by Leora Gonzales to read and review.
Reviews by the Wicked Reads Review Team
Sarah – ☆☆☆
3.5 stars
This is a sweet coming of age romance between a nurse and a firefighter. Jasmine is the child of two affluent and controlling doctors and Leo is the son of her parents’ housekeeper.
The connection between Leo and Jasmine is all sorts of insta-love – except that while they are strangers when they meet as adults, they did grow up together. I still think Leo comes across almost stalkerish at the start with caveman declarations and Velcro tendencies. Jasmine starts the story timid and flattered by Leo’s attention.
Even with their shared history, Leo and Jasmine’s romance moves too quickly for me. Conversations about love, jealousy, and future babies happen almost from first meeting. There is an assumption from the start that they will be together, and it doesn’t leave much room for sexual tension. Some of Leo’s lines are incredibly cheesy. There is a fine line between infatuated lover and possessive caveman and Leo steps over the line a few too many times for my tastes.
I enjoyed watching Jasmine grow up and establish herself against her parents. I like that her parents aren’t single dimensional baddies but some of the changes in her parents are drastic and instant. I’m not sure a lifetime of poor relationship habits can be broken so quickly.
Mary Jo – ☆☆☆☆
I enjoyed this book. Leo and Jazz were basically raised together as his mother was the housekeeper for her family while she was growing up. Her parents are doctors who spent more time on their patients than with their children, so in effect, Leo's mom was Jazz's mom.
Leo wants to get to know the grown up Jazz. Wants to know what makes her tick, the reason she wants to be nurse, and the million other things that makes Jazz unique. Jazz wants to know Leo as well, but she's still the insecure girl that he remembers even though she hides it well.
Having to face her fears or losing what she loves most, Jazz has to decide what truly matters.
Ruthie – ☆☆☆
This is the first in a new series, and given that it will feature firefighters, some we've met already, it is going to be scorching hot!
I enjoyed reading this story, and was happy with the direction it took. Whilst Leo and Jasmine fall for each other pretty quickly, it fits with their past, his profession, and the whirlwind that are Winter and Will. There were certainly some suitable candidates for future books introduced too.
The one funny thing was that I was distracted by it being written in the third person. Usually I have to think about who narrated the story, or didn't after I have finished the book, but here I was very aware of it all along. It didn't stop me enjoying the book, it was just noticeable and unexpected.
There is some lovely humour, some warm and fuzzy bits, and some heated romance, which altogether made for an enjoyable read.
Reviewers on the Wicked Reads Review Team were provided a free copy of Simmering Heat (Braving the Heat #1) by Leora Gonzales to read and review.
May 14, 2018
Despite the steamy romance and the hot firefighter, Simmering Heat didn't do it for me. The issues got fixed too quickly which makes the story drag at the end. It got so flat that I lost interest and couldn't even finish reading. I wasn't hooked anymore. Leo and Jasmine's relationship moves on too fast and I missed a little bit more of angst. Some people don't like angsty's relationships but I do. Leo isn't, unfortunately, the swoon-worthy hero I was looking for. He is too intense and controlling for my taste.
Merged review:
Despite the steamy romance and the hot firefighter, Simmering Heat didn't do it for me. The issues got fixed too quickly which makes the story drag at the end. It got so flat that I lost interest and couldn't even finish reading. I wasn't hooked anymore. Leo and Jasmine's relationship moves on too fast and I missed a little bit more of angst. Some people don't like angsty's relationships but I do. Leo isn't, unfortunately, the swoon-worthy hero I was looking for. He is too intense and controlling for my taste.
Merged review:
Despite the steamy romance and the hot firefighter, Simmering Heat didn't do it for me. The issues got fixed too quickly which makes the story drag at the end. It got so flat that I lost interest and couldn't even finish reading. I wasn't hooked anymore. Leo and Jasmine's relationship moves on too fast and I missed a little bit more of angst. Some people don't like angsty's relationships but I do. Leo isn't, unfortunately, the swoon-worthy hero I was looking for. He is too intense and controlling for my taste.
July 4, 2018
Jasmine felt her life was spinning out of control as she meets Leo once again. How could this man be the annoying boy that constantly gave her a hard time when she was younger. She depended on his mom for things her parents did not have the time or inclination to deal with as she grew up. Leo has changed from the last time she has seen him and Jazz wants to catch up. Is it her fault when lines start to blur and she feels so much more than she thought she was capable of. Loved this story!
May 22, 2018
Can Jasmine find love with a firefighter? Jasmine and Leo work through fear, friends, and family in this fun, sexy read. I enjoyed the story and fell in love with Leo. I hope the author will followup this title. I really enjoyed the circle of characters. Thanks to Kensington Books for the ARC of this title via NetGalley.
June 19, 2018
Definitely one book that had me from the start until the last word. Strong plot and characters with depth. Loved this easy to read story, it was thoroughly engaging and entertaining read. Awesome book. I would highly recommend this book to all book lovers out there
May 2, 2018
3.5⭐
This was an engaging story, that held my interest. As the characters were likable, and the storyline itself provided plenty of heat, moments of fun, was easy to read and had minimal angst.
However, I did feel Leo and Jazz were lacking a spark, even though they had plenty of potential. What with Leo's dirty mouth. Plus, I also struggled with how quickly Leo and Jazz fell in love. Even though they did have a history together.
But nonetheless it was a good read, and there was certainly more I liked than I didn't. And I would therefore look out for the next book in this series.
**I was kindly provided with an ARC by the Publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**
This was an engaging story, that held my interest. As the characters were likable, and the storyline itself provided plenty of heat, moments of fun, was easy to read and had minimal angst.
However, I did feel Leo and Jazz were lacking a spark, even though they had plenty of potential. What with Leo's dirty mouth. Plus, I also struggled with how quickly Leo and Jazz fell in love. Even though they did have a history together.
But nonetheless it was a good read, and there was certainly more I liked than I didn't. And I would therefore look out for the next book in this series.
**I was kindly provided with an ARC by the Publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**
November 20, 2018
I hate alpha-holes.
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