Yes, he’s straight. But who can blame me for lusting after a hunky firefighter?
I never meant to set fire to my bar, I swear. Lucky for me, it meant I got to meet Jackson. As far as rugged firemen go, this one is a mystery. He’s got a level head on his shoulders, and those shoulders are the kind I want to drape my legs around and never let go.
Except I can't fall for Jackson, no matter how sexy, brooding, and ripped he is. Not because I don't like firefighters (as if). Because I'm sure Jackson is straight.
I mean, I'm pretty sure.
But where there’s smoke, there’s sometimes fire. And if I didn’t know better, I’d think Jackson is burning white-hot for me. But that doesn’t change the fact that he’s not into guys. He probably has a gorgeous girlfriend and zero interest in clumsy gay bartenders.
Right?
JACKSON:
I carry plenty of guys out of fires, but Chase is the first one I don’t want to put down.
Nonetheless, I have to stay focused. It takes hard work and relentless dedication to keep myself at the level of physical fitness required to do my job. I don’t have time for a hot fling, and I definitely don’t have time to question my attraction to another man.
Still, I can’t stop thinking about him. I can’t help myself.
Adorably clumsy and sexy as hell, Chase is a mystery.
He says he wants to thank me for rescuing him from the fire. I know how he can thank me alright. His lips on mine, our bodies pressed together… That’s what I want from Chase.
It doesn’t help that my boss at the firehouse seems to think I’m perfect for his daughter. She’s friendly, but the spark just isn’t there.
She's not my type. Chase is.
This is the first time I don’t want to put out the fire…I want to let the flames grow.
Note to readers: This is an extra spicy MM romance. Readers can expect two red-hot men and several steamy scenes that will leave you gasping.
Chase and Jackson’s story gave me all the feels I love experiencing when reading a romance. It wasn’t all hearts and flowers in the beginning though, as the road started out rocky. I loved Chase right from the get go with his caring attitude but it took me longer to warm up to the outwardly more stoic and reserved Jackson. These two very different people were brought together under circumstances that had them ‘Chasing Heat’ and left me fanning myself when it got hot. The story is well written and the cast of supporting characters brought depth to the plot that made this more than just a love story which is why I’m giving Chasing Heat 5 stars!
I really enjoyed this story. Chase was working as a bartender for his cousin and accidentally sets a fire at the bar. Hunky firefighter Jackson comes to put the fire out and Chase is smitten. They get to know each otehr and one thing leads to another. Jackson has never been with or attracted to a guy before, but he doesn't let that stop his friendship and subsequent relationship with Chase. I thought the interactions and story line with Jackson's mom was interesting, and I liked watching Chase help Jackson through his struggles. Great story.
I am voluntarily reviewing an ARC provided by the author
🔥This firefighter finds a 🔥blaze he can't put out with his local 🍺bartender!‼😜 September 2, 2018 Format: Kindle Edition 👍4.5 stars A very 🔥hot coupling of ripped firefighter Jackson and Chase, a wannabe actor who opens the story by setting a bar on fire! Not an auspicious beginning but circumstances and Chase's overtures of friendship and gratitude bring them together and major 🎆 sparks fly! This is an extremely steamy MM romance with a difference. Jackson's loving but frustrating relationship with his alcoholic mother is central to the story and adds a lot of depth. His history with her bouts of drinking explains so much about his character and the personal and career choices he makes.
While Jackson is great, Chase, despite his uncertain work and financial situation, is a real gem. He just keeps on chugging along and hoping for love along the way. He's generous emotionally and a great support for a frazzled Jackson. I loved the arc that brought him to such a positive career path by the story's end.
The book is well-written, with an out of the ordinary plot, great characters, passion and love, all served with a side of consciousness of the difficulties of dealing with addiction. A real joy to read with a positive and hopeful conclusion.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
This was a fun read! Jason Collins delivers a steamy, sweet love story with characters that are easy to fall for. I really liked Chase and Jackson and the connection that these two shared. They are two very different people, but their story definitely works.
Chase is bartender hoping to make it as an actor in LA. He's outgoing and determined and a bit silly at times but it works for him. One day while trying to show off his Cocktail-esq skills he starts a fire in the bar. One of the firefighters that comes to the rescue is non other than hunky Jackson. These two are instantly taken with each other, and it's Chase that steps up to try to find a little time with Jackson. They do have a great connection, but there are issues these two have to face as well, like how Jackson's fire chief keeps trying to set him up with his daughter!
Again, this was fun. I enjoyed getting to know these guys and seeing how their relationship developed. There really isn't too much angst or drama in this story, it's about how these two figure out how to make it work. I think Jason Collins does a great job of blending the emotional times with the laughter to create an enjoyable story. I really liked these two and how their story came together, especially with the chief and his daughter! I wanted to give Jason Collins a high-five for that one. Definitely a worth while read!
Basic gist: Chase and Jackson meet when Chase accidentally sets fire to the bar he works at, and Jackson’s part of the firefighter team that put out the fire. Then life (or the story) throws them together a couple of times. This is the best I can do since I stopped at 45%.
Jackson does not deserve any more of my time, or Chase’s. Jackson is a dick. Let me count the ways he let his dickishness out in 45% of the book:
1) After their ‘first’ date together, Jackson made the move on Chase and suggested they go somewhere private. Then after they got off at Chase’s apartment, he left while Chase was in the shower, because he panicked or whatever, I’m not clear.
2) His mom, who’s an alcoholic, showed up at Chase’s bar and got injured. Chase called Jackson, who brought her to the hospital, then afterwards, went back to Chase’s bar and started ripping him a new one, then got him FIRED.
3) THEN, after he got Chase fired, he ran after Chase and kissed him. LET THEIR STORY END THERE, and let Chase find a decent guy who’s not this much of a wishy-washy fuck.
Do I really need to keep reading to solidify my opinion of Jackson’s assholery? I mean, his name is JACKSON.
Normally Collins’ works are at least enjoyable if not memorable. This one is so teeth-grittingly bad.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
To my ratings (thanks to amazon I had to change it again and 'upgrade' it a little bit. My old 3* is now a 3,5* and clicked with a 4*):
5* - very very good and rare (it would be a Blow- Away-book like 'Liberty' from Seth King, 'Save the kids' series from EM Leya or 'Jesse's Smile' from Angelique Jurd), it's like an A+
4* - very good and will be often reread and is a WOW-book with interesting plot and surprises (like most of Andrew Grey books) it's like an A
3,5* - a really good book, which will be reread a few times (most romances where you can enjoy for relaxing and during waiting times in hospitals). I can recommend them definitively! It's like an B+
3* - it could be more then a one-time-reader, but not really an often reread book
2* - it was ok to read, but it's more a one-time-reader (i wouldn't recommend it heartily, but it was ok) It's like a C-, D
1* - sorry, but that isn't really a book for me (too many mistakes, not nice plot, illogical, so an absolut NO-GO). It's like failure in the whole line, dismissed, repeat the class
4.5 stars Jason Collins writes the heartwarming stories that you want to read. Chase is a struggling actor who is working in a bar owned by a relative. He loves dealing with the people he meets but the day to day can sometime be a little boring. On this occasion, he decides to try and create a flaming drink which accidentally sets the bar on fire. Enter Jackson, the devilishly handsome and sexy firefighter sent to help put out the flames in the bar but he ignites a fire that begins to burn in Chase. As time passes, they get to know each other but it is not an easy feat. Each man has his own baggage and there are some turbulent situations that arise that will either bring them closer or tear them apart. The reader will not be able to stop falling for Chase and Jackson through this well written storyline filled with drama and humor. It proves once again that opposites really do attract. I volunteered to read an advance copy of this book.
Passionate, tender, romantic, gritty, just has all the feels for me! Sizzling and meaningful connection that will tug at your heart. Two really great men who find each other unexpectedly and follow that attraction through to friendship and love. Chase and Jackson find that they can be each other's rock. Their passion and love bind them closely and together they can create a future.
This book has a significant character that is impacted by alcoholism and addiction. I think that the impacts are dealt with well Also the painful reality that addicts only get help when they are ready to accept it. My heart broke for all the people touched by this disease in this story.
One of my favorite quotes from this book is " I wanted to love him hard enough that the whole world around us would melt away, taking our worries and our hang-ups with it."
Chasing Heat, by Jason Collins, is a wonderful romance!
When Jackson and Chase meet, the sparks fly, both literally and figuratively. What follows is a wonderful romance between the bartender and the fireman, as they navigate their way.
There are some fun, entertaining, and serious issues that are in their way as their relationship progresses. They face their own hesitancy, an alcoholic mother, and more.
The plot is well written, the characters well developed, and the romance is passionate as well as tender. These two men perfectly support each other, as they may be different but their differences work.
I am impressed with the way that alcoholism was handled, with knowledge, care and compassion. It wasn't an easy thing to read, but it was perfectly handled.
Jason Collins has once again impressed me. Chasing Heat will definitely be on my re-read list.
Opposites attract dual point of view Jackson is a firefighter with two challenges - an ill Mom and an interfering boss. Chase is an awkward soul trying to find himself by causing mishaps. The two find themselves attracted to one another when they meet at the scene of a fire Chase caused. Can they help each other out with their issues? Overall I felt the story had some good characters, interesting issues, and a strong backbone but was not as developed as I needed. It seemed rushed and the end really bothered me - why was the Mom so effusive over the person that was not her son. I also had a real issue with the description of Jackson’s place as a townhome with a back cottage - townhomes have one or more shared walls!! Jackson’s place was a house!
Another great one! Chase and Jackson are amazing. I love a intense read where the characters chemistry is off the charts hot, and this is definitely that book. I couldn't put it down, I fell in love with both of these guys and of course firefighters are always going to heat things up. Sexy, fun and will make you blush. Loved their friendship, each coming from a different place but fitting together. Chase is sweet, caring and open where Jackson is more guarded at first. Also side characters you'll want to see more of makes the story flow naturally. Can't wait for the next. I voluntarily reviewed an 'Advance Author’s Copy' of this book.
Chase and Jackson were a sweet couple who enjoyed some really hot moments. I was annoyed with Jackson a few times for his disregard of Chase's feelings, but I excused some of that since he was dealing with a lot in his life. I adored Chase and his concern for other people. He was a great caretaker. Jackson knew how lucky he was to have Chase in his life, and Chase quickly realized that he cared deeply for his firefighter. Jackson's mom was the reason for most of the angst in the story, but she cared about both men. While parts of this book made me sad or angry, other parts had me laughing. Jackson and Chase were good for each other, and I enjoyed their story.
I really enjoyed this book and I love the characters. It is well-written, engaging and I could not put it down. Chase and Jackson are wonderful and their journey to a HEA is inspiring. Their chemistry is smoking hot and the best part is that Jackson accepts his attraction to Chase without a lot of angst. The way Jackson looks after his mother even though they have a troubled history shows what a great guy he is. Chase is a sweetheart and he deserves someone that is able to appreciate him. I love how their relationship develops and the ending is amazing. I look forward to reading more books by Jason Collins as he always delivers an excellent read.
Beer is not flammable. it would not start a bar fire if a flame fell into it. In fact, most alcohol from a bar wouldnt, unless it was 100 proof (50%) alcohol or higher. Beer is about 4-6% alcohol, and most standard alcohols (vodka, whiskey, rum, tequila, gin) are only 80 proof. It's only a short section of the book, but it was right at the very beginning and was so glaringly inaccurate that it threw me off for a while. This book was only so-so for me. In the beginning, Jackson gave me whiplash with being sweet one minute, then a total jerk the next, and Chase just keeps forgiving him, then all of a sudden he's the perfect boyfriend. Hmmm.
WOW. I didn’t see that coming! I loved the story of Jackson & Chase. Jason writes with conviction, and has a great knack for character development. I really felt for these two characters from the beginning. Chase, an aspiring actor working by day as a bartender has a mishap and accidentally sets fire to the bar. The fire department is called, where he meets Jackson, one of the firefighters. The two become fast friends and develops into more. There’s the issue of Jackson’s mother who has a drinking problem, and his boss who is intent on setting him up with his daughter. Great tension building and the ending really took me by surprise. I found a new favourite author! Great work Jason!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Serendipity. Being in the right place at the right time, the circumstances unusual but not important in the scheme of things. Jackson and Chase were perfect together. Sheila, Jackson's mother, was in some ways, a binding catalyst to their growing connection. Reading about her decades long addiction to alcohol and how it affected sweet Jackson's life was frustrating as well as sad. This was a sweet love story. Hard times were overcome and our boys found their happiness. Even, Sheila!
4.75 stars. Loving Jason Collins' writing style. Jackson's a great guy with an alcoholic mom that he's still trying to save. Chase is funny, sweet and vivacious. These two heat up the sheet though! There are a few little wobbles as they build their relationship that are overcome fairly easily. They both realize that together they have something special and are willing to work through anything to keep it. I was super impressed when Jackson didn't hide his dinner invite but wanted Chase there with him. Super sweet ending. Adult read
Alright. Outside of the insta-love/insta-connection bullshit this was an alright read. Nothing spectacular, pretty standard.
I had some issues with the characterization - like where Chase is a baseball fan but not really a baseball fan at all. You had a chance to defy the stereotype, and didn't take it. I both hate and appreciate that Jackson got Chase fired. He was a) out of line, so fuck him for doing that. And b) he was human for a moment and that was the only thing keeping him from being too perfect.
This story was a little hard to believe - or rather, it contained some unreal elements that made it difficult to believe. That Ella was gay, too was predictable, though what threw me the most was someone who looked like Jackson getting to his thirties without giving into his inherent attraction to men. He had never been with a man before, yet didn't freak during the blowjob with Chase. Not many men would have swallowed their first time. So yeah, that happened. Sory was written well with few to no errors, but just lacked punch.
3.75 ⭐️ It’s an okay story but it has little to no angst whatsoever, total Insta love/lust, pure fluff. The main characters were a bit too good to be true, and while they were sweet together they just didn’t have any real obstacle to overcome. The sex was hot, but Jackson seemed to not have any struggle with having fullon sex with a man for the first time, no hesitation at all. Chase seemed to be a trouble magnet at the beginning but turned into the perfect boyfriend, anc almost a 40’s housewife for a few minutes.
So this is a tough one. It had a decent premise, but it lacked finesse. There were some grammar errors. More distracting though, were the syntax errors. Aside from structural issues, the character building was lacking depth. I wanted to know more about these guys! What motivated them? Why do they make these choices? Why are they such a good fit. Why should I believe in a random career change in the EPILOGUE when it was literally never hinted at? Not once, ever. I feel like this could've been a knockout if the author had spent more time world-building.
Love this story!! Who doesn’t love a hunky fireman!! Jackson and Chase are spectacular characters with great chemistry from the moment they meet. They had a rocky start but then took off. Loved watching their relationship progress throughout the story and really like how they handle Jackson’s mom’s alcoholism. They really work together and are wonderful together. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.
....as all of Jason's are. Who doesn't love a sweet love story? I do recommend this book as I do all of Jason's. The characters start off loveable and remain so throughout. Chase is the sweet bartender who gets "saved" by hunky firefighter Jackson when the bar catches fire. That's when you start rooting for the start of a relationship. It just gets better as the story goes on. Read this story and enjoy the love between these two.
You know what... No! There are couple of pages of fantasising about a man in question but then you gloss over the first kiss??? No, that's not how it's done. They have feelings after two kisses and don't get me started on that second one. Who doesn't want a passionate kiss from an aggressive man who yelled at you for reasons beyond your responsibility AND got you fired, am I right? No, I don't want to talk about the pole dancing!
Too many misspellings, incorrect words used, etc., which served as a major distraction to the story. About a year ago, I began reading Jason’s stories but in recent months have become more and more frustrated and disappointed. So I tried one last story... and I guess it will be my last since the story line was good; however, the grammatical issues became significant and detracted from the story line and character development.
Another beautiful romance by Jason Collins, I think this is my new favourite. Chasing Heat was a really enjoyable read, the storyline was great, the characters realistic and the chemistry HOT. Fire fighter Jackson first sets eyes on Chase when attending a call to a bar fire, caused when one of Chase's drink inventions goes wrong. Both couldn't get their minds off the other from that moment.
Chase is trying to make a smash on the acting scene, but seems to find himself in difficult situations. He meets the hot firefighter, Jackson, during one such situation. Jackson had a difficult childhood and is attempting to help his alcoholic mother in his recovery. So much is happening, but Jackson finds himself attracted to the enigmatic Chase.
Oh, this author is BRILLIANT. Being Gay can't be easy, and yet he infuses such humor. Chase had me howling with laughter when he tried to mix a cocktail right at the beginning of the book. I knew then that I was going to love this character and the story line. Was not disappointed at all. Jackson impressed me - from being 'straight' but no time to socialize, to embracing his 'Gay' side when he met Chase. A perfect read, especially if you are down in the dumps and need up-lifting, such a laugh. LOVED IT....
An incredible story, Chase and Jackson's relationship is both beautiful and simplistic to see, but what really grabs you in this book is their relationship with Shelia and how they try to help her cope with her addiction this is what brings the book to life and shows you the struggles between parent/child, friends, and lover's who deal with this every day.