What do you think?
Rate this book
Chasing Fireflies
USA Today Bestselling author Claudia Burgoa brings you an emotional and inspirational story that will tug on your heartstrings.
The first time I met Oliver Tanner he was five years old.
I was four.
That day he was entrusted to my keep.
He was as large and loud as a church mouse.
That day I taught him how fireflies were magic with the persistence of a person.
That’s what I loved about them.
No matter how far they strayed,
they remembered where they came from and who their family was.
After high school, he joined the army and left Knox Ridge.
Years later, the town had changed.
My dreams were shattered.
We had nothing left.
I had forgotten all about the magic of the fireflies.
Until he came back to town.
Everything about him was comforting.
He brought some light to my darkness,
But I knew the light could only last for so long.
Fireflies only stay for the summer.
He had outgrown our small town.
It was time for me to stop chasing fireflies.
Don't miss out on this stunning, second-chance friends to lovers romance.
This full-length novel was originally published in the Cards of Love collection as a novella. It has been revised with additional scenes.
The first time I met Oliver Tanner he was five years old.
I was four.
That day he was entrusted to my keep.
He was as large and loud as a church mouse.
That day I taught him how fireflies were magic with the persistence of a person.
That’s what I loved about them.
No matter how far they strayed,
they remembered where they came from and who their family was.
After high school, he joined the army and left Knox Ridge.
Years later, the town had changed.
My dreams were shattered.
We had nothing left.
I had forgotten all about the magic of the fireflies.
Until he came back to town.
Everything about him was comforting.
He brought some light to my darkness,
But I knew the light could only last for so long.
Fireflies only stay for the summer.
He had outgrown our small town.
It was time for me to stop chasing fireflies.
Don't miss out on this stunning, second-chance friends to lovers romance.
This full-length novel was originally published in the Cards of Love collection as a novella. It has been revised with additional scenes.
224 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 9, 2019
249 people are currently reading
1024 people want to read
About the author
Claudia Y. Burgoa
142 books6,404 followersClaudia is an award-winning, USA Today bestselling author.
She writes alluring, thrilling stories about complicated women and the men who take their breath away.
She lives in Denver, Colorado with her husband and her youngest two children. She has a sweet Bichon, Macey, who thinks she's the ruler of the house. She's only partially right.
When Claudia is not writing, you can find her reading, knitting, or just hanging out with her family.
At night, she likes to binge watch shows with her equally geeky husband.
Instagram: http://bit.ly/ClaudiasIG
TikTok: https://bit.ly/CBstiktok
Bloggers/Influencers: https://geni.us/CBBloggers
Newsletter: https://geni.us/CBNewsletter
She writes alluring, thrilling stories about complicated women and the men who take their breath away.
She lives in Denver, Colorado with her husband and her youngest two children. She has a sweet Bichon, Macey, who thinks she's the ruler of the house. She's only partially right.
When Claudia is not writing, you can find her reading, knitting, or just hanging out with her family.
At night, she likes to binge watch shows with her equally geeky husband.
Instagram: http://bit.ly/ClaudiasIG
TikTok: https://bit.ly/CBstiktok
Bloggers/Influencers: https://geni.us/CBBloggers
Newsletter: https://geni.us/CBNewsletter
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 174 reviews
September 7, 2019
Claudia Burgoa knows how to pull on my heartstrings. Chasing Fireflies was heartwarming and beautiful.
The friends to lovers, second chance romance was sweet and heartfelt. Oliver and Kaitlynn shared a deep connection, a love that was indestructible even through time and distance. Though, when Oliver finally returned to their small town he found that Kaitlynn build her walls so high that it would take time and patience to penetrate it.
Claudia knocked it our if the park with Chasing Fireflies. You get so lost in their story. The love and emotions that bleed off the pages will have you captivated. This is a must read!
The friends to lovers, second chance romance was sweet and heartfelt. Oliver and Kaitlynn shared a deep connection, a love that was indestructible even through time and distance. Though, when Oliver finally returned to their small town he found that Kaitlynn build her walls so high that it would take time and patience to penetrate it.
Claudia knocked it our if the park with Chasing Fireflies. You get so lost in their story. The love and emotions that bleed off the pages will have you captivated. This is a must read!
September 9, 2019
I grew up in a small town, so this story resonates with me in so many ways. It brings back all of the feelings of my youth. Days and evenings spent playing outside catching bugs and hanging out with your best friends, riding bikes and having little picnics. These are all things that you really don’t appreciate in your youth, especially for those of us just wanting to get out of our small town and into the big world. That is what happened with Kaitlynn and Oliver. They met when they were little kids and Oliver and his mom moved in next door. It was from that point that the two were pretty much inseparable. Even though Oliver was a year older, Kaitlynn protected him fiercely from the school bullies who picked on him because he was a poor kid of a single parent. Kaitlynn and Oliver became aware that they were attracted to each other in high school, but they both kept it secret for fear that the other didn’t feel the same. Things kind of went down hill from there went they both went in different directions. They both tried to stay in touch over the years, but eventually lost touch. Fast forward twelve years or so, and both of them have returned to the tiny town of Knox Ridge for different reasons. The feelings are still there, but they are mixed with a lot of pain and disappointment. Can the two of them get past all of the heartache and misunderstanding of the past in order to recapture the magic of their youth and the fireflies? This story really touched my heart. It is magical and a little tragic. Definitely one of my favorites this year! Read it! You will love it!!!
September 5, 2019
Claudia Burgoa is making me fall in love a bit more with her words in each new story. Chasing Fireflies was a beautiful reading experience for me. My heart bleeds for the lovers and at the same time this story gave me a blissful state of heartwarming emotions. It is worthy of every single stars.
Oliver and Kaitlyn are one of those epic couples. Who will haunt you in your dreams and memories. Who will make you smile and shed tears each time you remember them with certain kind of fondness. Set in the small town of Knox Ridge, this story deals with every intense human emotion possible. And that too in a fantastic manner. Two kids who become best friends and then one breaks the heart of another and then they are separated by decades. And now Oliver is back in Knox Ridge after Military service where nothing changes. The people, the streets, the houses. Except his best friend Kaitlyn. Who is a shell of her former cheery, hopeful and bright self. She is broken, destroyed, exhausted, hopeless and lost all confidence along with her dream and loved ones. Will she let Oliver in? Can Oliver mend the bridge that he burnt ages back?
This is an extremely emotional story. I could literally feel Kaitlyn's pain pulling me down in the hell. My heart was in so much distress to feel all her burden and negativity. And the evolution of the character was brilliant. The story spreads across years. So you can see the little Oliver with anger, guilt, shame and resentment getting transformed by the love of Kaitlyn's family. Oh he can be a stupid alright. But when he decided he wants Kaitlyn and to protect her, that was just brilliant. His gestures, his attention to her needs, his stubbornness in face of her constant denial, his capacity to give back what he had- everything made him a great guy. The emotional connection was something else. So precious, so brittle, so vulnerable and so perfect. I could feel the tears running from my eyes or the smile of relief when they found their HEA.
Chasing Fireflies by Claudia Burgoa was a touching and inspiring story of love and friendship. The writing was incredible. Oliver and Kaitlyn won my heart instantly and I will have a difficult time letting them go. Ever. A must read if you want a meaningful, heartbreaking, swoonworthy and unforgettable love story.
Received ARC for Honest review
Oliver and Kaitlyn are one of those epic couples. Who will haunt you in your dreams and memories. Who will make you smile and shed tears each time you remember them with certain kind of fondness. Set in the small town of Knox Ridge, this story deals with every intense human emotion possible. And that too in a fantastic manner. Two kids who become best friends and then one breaks the heart of another and then they are separated by decades. And now Oliver is back in Knox Ridge after Military service where nothing changes. The people, the streets, the houses. Except his best friend Kaitlyn. Who is a shell of her former cheery, hopeful and bright self. She is broken, destroyed, exhausted, hopeless and lost all confidence along with her dream and loved ones. Will she let Oliver in? Can Oliver mend the bridge that he burnt ages back?
This is an extremely emotional story. I could literally feel Kaitlyn's pain pulling me down in the hell. My heart was in so much distress to feel all her burden and negativity. And the evolution of the character was brilliant. The story spreads across years. So you can see the little Oliver with anger, guilt, shame and resentment getting transformed by the love of Kaitlyn's family. Oh he can be a stupid alright. But when he decided he wants Kaitlyn and to protect her, that was just brilliant. His gestures, his attention to her needs, his stubbornness in face of her constant denial, his capacity to give back what he had- everything made him a great guy. The emotional connection was something else. So precious, so brittle, so vulnerable and so perfect. I could feel the tears running from my eyes or the smile of relief when they found their HEA.
Chasing Fireflies by Claudia Burgoa was a touching and inspiring story of love and friendship. The writing was incredible. Oliver and Kaitlyn won my heart instantly and I will have a difficult time letting them go. Ever. A must read if you want a meaningful, heartbreaking, swoonworthy and unforgettable love story.
Received ARC for Honest review
March 19, 2022
This book was endearing. So many emotions from happy to sad to sympathy back to elation
Katy and Oliver became friends when they were 4& 5 respectively. They were the best of friends. They discussed everything and there were no secrets between them so they thought. Circumstances separated them for many years. Read this heartwarming story of Katy's and Oliver's lives in this second chance of love.
I read the ebook some time ago. While listening to the audiobook made me realize there is sadness for most of it. I don’t think that was the intention of Ms. Burgoa when she wrote this book. The dual narrators did a great job of bringing this book to life.
Katy and Oliver became friends when they were 4& 5 respectively. They were the best of friends. They discussed everything and there were no secrets between them so they thought. Circumstances separated them for many years. Read this heartwarming story of Katy's and Oliver's lives in this second chance of love.
I read the ebook some time ago. While listening to the audiobook made me realize there is sadness for most of it. I don’t think that was the intention of Ms. Burgoa when she wrote this book. The dual narrators did a great job of bringing this book to life.
September 9, 2019
I loved this story when it was first released as Knight of Wands, but I love it even more in this new extended version!
"Fireflies knew how to call each other back home."
Oliver and Kaitlynn have been best friends since childhood, but Ollie became her sister's boyfriend. When Ollie joined the army, they became pen-pals. They poured their hearts out to each other.
Twelve years later, there's been radio silence between them for a number of years. Ollie has retired from the army and is back in town, and finds Kaitlynn there - running her late parents' restaurant and not following her dreams.
"All my attention is hers, and I can't tame the instant arousal. It's like fire cascading through my body."
Ollie is stunned by his visceral reaction to his best friend, his KitKat. Unfortunately, she's overworked, disillusioned, and determined to keep him at arm's length. However, there's nowhere else he'd rather be.
"There's this pull between us, this feeling. I can't describe it, but we've been this way since we were kids."
Kaitlynn poured her heart out to Ollie once, but to no avail. She can't rely on anyone but herself, and she can't trust anyone who doesn't plan to stick around. Ollie's got his work cut out for him convincing her otherwise.
I loved Ollie and Kit Kat's story! Over the years, their history and true feelings are slowly revealed bit by bit through their letters. Ollie is gorgeous! He let his fear and his family legacy guide his actions when he was younger, but now that he's seen something of the world, he realises that it's always been missing one thing. He's a real knight to Kaitlynn's rescue. Unfortunately, her loneliness and burdens have him working hard for her love and trust. She's had it tough for so many years that she finds it hard to trust in something that feels too good to be true. I found them two really deserving people and I was rooting for their HEA all the way.
This story was so beautiful. It was heartwarming, heartbreaking, and life-affirming! It had all the feels!!
"Fireflies knew how to call each other back home."
Oliver and Kaitlynn have been best friends since childhood, but Ollie became her sister's boyfriend. When Ollie joined the army, they became pen-pals. They poured their hearts out to each other.
Twelve years later, there's been radio silence between them for a number of years. Ollie has retired from the army and is back in town, and finds Kaitlynn there - running her late parents' restaurant and not following her dreams.
"All my attention is hers, and I can't tame the instant arousal. It's like fire cascading through my body."
Ollie is stunned by his visceral reaction to his best friend, his KitKat. Unfortunately, she's overworked, disillusioned, and determined to keep him at arm's length. However, there's nowhere else he'd rather be.
"There's this pull between us, this feeling. I can't describe it, but we've been this way since we were kids."
Kaitlynn poured her heart out to Ollie once, but to no avail. She can't rely on anyone but herself, and she can't trust anyone who doesn't plan to stick around. Ollie's got his work cut out for him convincing her otherwise.
I loved Ollie and Kit Kat's story! Over the years, their history and true feelings are slowly revealed bit by bit through their letters. Ollie is gorgeous! He let his fear and his family legacy guide his actions when he was younger, but now that he's seen something of the world, he realises that it's always been missing one thing. He's a real knight to Kaitlynn's rescue. Unfortunately, her loneliness and burdens have him working hard for her love and trust. She's had it tough for so many years that she finds it hard to trust in something that feels too good to be true. I found them two really deserving people and I was rooting for their HEA all the way.
This story was so beautiful. It was heartwarming, heartbreaking, and life-affirming! It had all the feels!!
September 9, 2019
Chasing Fireflies by Claudia Burgoa is one of my favorite books she has written. This coming of age romance spans over twenty years of family, friends, life, and love. It captures the complete untainted innocent hearts of children to the jaded, weary hearts after life has reared it’s ugly side. Through it all the the strength of family and friendship is the glue that holds Kaitlyn Blythe and Oliver Tanner together. Their story begins at the precious age of four and five, when popsicles on lazy summer days and chasing fireflies are the most important things to do in Knox Ridge, GA.
Small towns like Knox Ridge hold more than southern charm, they hold a history of generations of families and friends sharing their lives with one another. These towns hold their secrets close to heart but share their generous souls with generations. Knox Ridge is the heartbeat for generations of Blythes and Tanners.
Kaitlynn and Ollie have known each other all of their lives. They became friends when Ollie’s mother moved in next door to the Blythe family home. The moment they met they were destined to share their lives. From the childhood innocence to the angsty teenagers, both Kaitlynn and Ollie grew up depending on one another until Kaitlynn’s sister stepped in and changed it all. It sent them both in directions in life, away from Knox Ridge. It will take years for them both to find their way home and back to one another. Good things are worth waiting for and the magic in chasing fireflies is still there. Kaitlynn and Ollie both need that special magic to soother their weary souls. They need each other.
Without saying too much more about the content of the book I will say that this book was alsolutely magical. Ollie and Kaitlynn came to life and jumped off the pages. Their magical fireflies illuminated their story and made their lives special.
“Fireflies knew how to call each other back home”
Read Chasing Fireflies by Claudia Burgoa!
September 10, 2019
Authors stoppppp why would I want to read about the hero hooking up with the sister then the sister(heroine) it’s yucky. This started of cute and then Kelsey kept coming up and I just knew where it was going.
September 9, 2019
If you have been following my reviews you will know I am a fan of Claudia Burgoa's, her writing has a way of pulling several different emotions out of me whether it's tears or laughter or just a grunt of frustration, she definitely knows how to invoke a response, and this story had me all over the place.
The beginning of this story shows us how close Oliver and Kaitlynn were when they were kids. Oliver and his mother moved into the house next door when he was five and Kaitlynn was four, it was the cutest thing seeing them out in the backyard catching fireflies and then watching them grow closer over the years. Then when Oliver went into the military the story was told through a series of letters back and forth between the two of them and it let you into their world with the little snip-its of their lives at that time, Oliver's while he was in Iraq and Kaitlynn's while she was in college and then perusing her dreams afterwards...until they just stopped. The chemistry was spot on and honestly with heat like that I didn't understand why Oliver was with Kelsey at all...she was her own brand of crazy that he didn't deserve, he and Kaitlynn should have always been together.
I loved Oliver, he has returned home after serving his country for twelve years and is at a loss as to what to do next with his life so he is going to take time and fix up his mothers house while he figures things out. One thing he didn't figure into his equation was running into his best friend Kaitlynn whom he hasn't heard from in a few years.
This story is one of friendship, love, and survival, it is beautifully written and grabs you from the very beginning. Watching two young friends grow up and develop feelings for one another that finally comes to fruition is just wonderful, and the chemistry is so strong you can feel it before they do! This is an easy book to recommend to readers of romance.
Happy Reading!!!
You can see this and other Reviews I have written along with various cover reveals, excerpts, and giveaways here Nadine's Obsessed with Books
The beginning of this story shows us how close Oliver and Kaitlynn were when they were kids. Oliver and his mother moved into the house next door when he was five and Kaitlynn was four, it was the cutest thing seeing them out in the backyard catching fireflies and then watching them grow closer over the years. Then when Oliver went into the military the story was told through a series of letters back and forth between the two of them and it let you into their world with the little snip-its of their lives at that time, Oliver's while he was in Iraq and Kaitlynn's while she was in college and then perusing her dreams afterwards...until they just stopped. The chemistry was spot on and honestly with heat like that I didn't understand why Oliver was with Kelsey at all...she was her own brand of crazy that he didn't deserve, he and Kaitlynn should have always been together.
I loved Oliver, he has returned home after serving his country for twelve years and is at a loss as to what to do next with his life so he is going to take time and fix up his mothers house while he figures things out. One thing he didn't figure into his equation was running into his best friend Kaitlynn whom he hasn't heard from in a few years.
This story is one of friendship, love, and survival, it is beautifully written and grabs you from the very beginning. Watching two young friends grow up and develop feelings for one another that finally comes to fruition is just wonderful, and the chemistry is so strong you can feel it before they do! This is an easy book to recommend to readers of romance.
Happy Reading!!!
You can see this and other Reviews I have written along with various cover reveals, excerpts, and giveaways here Nadine's Obsessed with Books
September 15, 2019
I wasn’t a fan of either MCs. They haven’t set eyes on each other in over 10 years and haven’t communicated in any way in 5 years. He comes back and we are supposed to believe they love each other. I don’t know about anyone else but my ass sure has changed in the last 5 years let alone 12. My core values may still be the same but life experiences has a way of impacting your life which affects who you are. Yet we are supposed to believe he missed and thought about her for years but never visited her when he came back. I mean her parents died...The same parents that took him and his mom in years ago and he never returns to visit their grave or to check on Kaitlynn in those 5 FREAKING years. I don’t know about you but I would have told him to piss off. Let’s not even get into his relationship with Kelsey. His reasons for dating her was ridiculous. Couldn’t have found easy and convenience with SOMEONE else? Kaitlynn might claim she always loved him but at least she had boyfriends during those years apart. She tried to have a life until her parents death.
I just didn’t buy into the relationship. I don’t believe in Ollie at all. He says that he wasn’t ready for her then, but now he is. Whatever!
I have to say this is one I’d rather she ended up with someone else.
I just didn’t buy into the relationship. I don’t believe in Ollie at all. He says that he wasn’t ready for her then, but now he is. Whatever!
I have to say this is one I’d rather she ended up with someone else.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 6, 2019
The cover was beautiful and really drew me in. The story begins when Ollie and Kaitlynn are children and progresses as they grow up. They were best friends. Kelsey is her sister and is portrayed as a "mean girl". I really hoped the book wasn't going the way I thought but unfortunately it did. One of my biggest peeves in a romance is when the H has had a previous relationship with the h's sister before they get together. In this case, they are actually still good friends when the Ollie begins a year long relationship with Kelsey (and he makes a conscious decision to CHOOSE the sister over Kaitlynn after almost kissing her). Is he so clueless he doesn't think having a relationship with the sister is hurtful? Really? If he truly cared for her as much as he claimed it's not something he would even have considered. Pretty sure there were other girls in the town he could date. The only reason they break up is because he is leaving town. At 75% of the book, the Ollie and Kaitlynn are still not together. He has been off doing his own thing and she has been basically existing, mostly sad and miserable. I wasn't sure what to think about Ollie not acknowledging her parents death especially since he spent so much time with her family growing up. Although I felt an attachment between them in the beginning of the book, by the end I didn't feel their connection. I didn't see how a guy who thought only about himself was suddenly thoughtful and felt passionate about Kaitlynn. I wanted to like him, but he never grew on me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 3, 2019
This is the cards of love story but more added and oh do I even love it more. We get a glimpse of Oliver and Kaitlynn as kids! .... A beautiful, angst friends to lovers romance that keeps you on your toes till the end. Kaitlynn is trying to keep her parents restaurant going after there death with practically no help until Oliver Tanner the one person Kaitlynn hasn’t seen in years is there. Oliver I loved his character he’s sweet, sexy, honest and makes you swoon! Kaitlynn is so strong and loving and beautiful but has her walls up cause everyone she cares about either passed away or just never showed her love. Two people that need each other but can they actually be together or will everything just come crumbling down. Fireflies 5/5 stars
October 14, 2019
Note to self - STOP forgetting that this writer is on your avoid list. Absolute bog water, this.
Read
September 10, 2019Sibling Sharing.
September 7, 2019
Life gets crazy for all of us, and my reading commitments have gotten a little out of hand, so I almost passed on this book. But it kept niggling at me, nudging me in the back of my mind until I finally listened and downloaded it. Sleep is overrated anyway, right? Oh my heavens, y'all, this book is beyond amazing, and I almost missed it!
It's one of those Sparks-like sagas spanning decades, with enchanting, authentic characters that infiltrate every cell of your being. Where the heart and emotion of the story soak into you and then carry you along the dips and swells of its tide. I won’t begin to be able to do it justice, but trust me, you’re definitely going to want to read this one! Not only does it have winning characters you'll effortlessly fall for and a captivating storyline that will hold you in its clutches from the first word to the last, but the narrative and sentiment are stunningly beautiful, poetic prose.
It’s heartbreaking, how two people who have such a sweet, precious, beautiful friendship in childhood can get things so epically, spectacularly wrong as teens. Oliver Tanner fell in love as a five-year-old when he and his mom moved in next door to the Blythe family after his dad died. The Blythes welcomed Ollie and his mom into their family and he and four-year-old Kaitlynn quickly became inseparable. “Kit Kat" taught Ollie about chasing fireflies, and they wove stories about the fireflies and their firefly families, never realizing how significant those memories would become. They remained best friends until Ollie dated the worst mean girl around his senior year of high school. Fortunately that ill-fated relationship ended when Ollie enlisted in the military, but not without damage to his friendship with Kaitlynn. Twelve years later Ollie returns to Knox Ridge, GA, and everything that matters the most to him has drastically changed.
Grab the tissues and hold on tight to your heart. Ollie and Kaitlynn's story will take you from devastation to euphoria and everything in between before it’s all said and done. You’ll want to wrap your arms around sweet, sad little Ollie and then cheer for generous, giving Kaitlynn as she fiercely protects those she loves. If ever two characters belonged together, it’s Kaitlynn and Ollie, and seeing them get their second chance will fill your heart to bursting and leave you with a happy sigh. Don’t miss this amazingly beautiful, poignant, heartfelt story, like I almost did. Life is too short for regrets, so start reading this phenomenal book today!
*I read an early edition of this book freely and voluntarily, having made no commitment to provide feedback and receiving no compensation of any kind from any source.
It's one of those Sparks-like sagas spanning decades, with enchanting, authentic characters that infiltrate every cell of your being. Where the heart and emotion of the story soak into you and then carry you along the dips and swells of its tide. I won’t begin to be able to do it justice, but trust me, you’re definitely going to want to read this one! Not only does it have winning characters you'll effortlessly fall for and a captivating storyline that will hold you in its clutches from the first word to the last, but the narrative and sentiment are stunningly beautiful, poetic prose.
It’s heartbreaking, how two people who have such a sweet, precious, beautiful friendship in childhood can get things so epically, spectacularly wrong as teens. Oliver Tanner fell in love as a five-year-old when he and his mom moved in next door to the Blythe family after his dad died. The Blythes welcomed Ollie and his mom into their family and he and four-year-old Kaitlynn quickly became inseparable. “Kit Kat" taught Ollie about chasing fireflies, and they wove stories about the fireflies and their firefly families, never realizing how significant those memories would become. They remained best friends until Ollie dated the worst mean girl around his senior year of high school. Fortunately that ill-fated relationship ended when Ollie enlisted in the military, but not without damage to his friendship with Kaitlynn. Twelve years later Ollie returns to Knox Ridge, GA, and everything that matters the most to him has drastically changed.
Grab the tissues and hold on tight to your heart. Ollie and Kaitlynn's story will take you from devastation to euphoria and everything in between before it’s all said and done. You’ll want to wrap your arms around sweet, sad little Ollie and then cheer for generous, giving Kaitlynn as she fiercely protects those she loves. If ever two characters belonged together, it’s Kaitlynn and Ollie, and seeing them get their second chance will fill your heart to bursting and leave you with a happy sigh. Don’t miss this amazingly beautiful, poignant, heartfelt story, like I almost did. Life is too short for regrets, so start reading this phenomenal book today!
*I read an early edition of this book freely and voluntarily, having made no commitment to provide feedback and receiving no compensation of any kind from any source.
September 5, 2019
Chasing Fireflies was previously published as Knight of Wands in the Cards of Love Anthology. Now edited and extended to a novella.
Meet Kaitlynn and Oliver.
Kaitlynn is a chef and owns the family restaurant. The business is failing and she doesn't know what to do.
Oliver grew up with Kaitlynn, worked at the restaurant, till he left for the military and to top it off, he's her sister's ex. After 12 years away he's back. Has some issues and demons and is a bit lost. When he stumbles over Kaitlynn he knows exactly what he wants to do - help her back on her feet.
Chasing Fireflies is a great novella, extremely well written and had me hooked from the beginning. It has just the right amount of drama and danger, feelings and HEA to keep me at the edge of my seat. I recommend the book and give 5 beautiful stars.
Meet Kaitlynn and Oliver.
Kaitlynn is a chef and owns the family restaurant. The business is failing and she doesn't know what to do.
Oliver grew up with Kaitlynn, worked at the restaurant, till he left for the military and to top it off, he's her sister's ex. After 12 years away he's back. Has some issues and demons and is a bit lost. When he stumbles over Kaitlynn he knows exactly what he wants to do - help her back on her feet.
Chasing Fireflies is a great novella, extremely well written and had me hooked from the beginning. It has just the right amount of drama and danger, feelings and HEA to keep me at the edge of my seat. I recommend the book and give 5 beautiful stars.
September 8, 2019
I LOVED this book! Kit Kat and Ollie worked their way into my heart from the beginning. I loved the way Claudia wrote this! Getting their story from when the first met when they were 4 and 5 and then all their moments growing up as best friends until they parted ways. There is so much longing and heartbreak but at the same time so much love. I felt every emotion (even now, I still feel it all). Once they were both back in Knox Ridge, can they get over their fears of losing their friendship and become more? When they both feel like they're home with the other, there's probably no point in fighting it. 😉
September 7, 2019
Gah! What a sweet and just so amazing read! I’ve been struggling lately so it was nice to find something I could dive right into and stay so invested in. Ollie and Kaitlynn are something special and so is their love. Even if they don’t quite know it at first. And I love the little town of Knox Ridge, love!! Just, I need sweet and romantic and boy did I get it!!
September 11, 2019
Chasing Fireflies is my favorite book by this author! I absolutely loved this second chance, friends to lovers romance! It was beautiful! It was emotional! It was epic!
September 10, 2019
This new release (with a totally hot cover!) by Claudia Burgoa is an updated version of her Cards of Love series contribution- Knight of Wands. With much more added content, the story takes on a new feel as Kaitlynn Blythe and Oliver Tanner's childhood friendship is explored in depth and gives the reader a new understanding of how much their lives were and still are so connected.
Becoming next door neighbors at ages 4 and 5, they spend their days, nights and every spare moment in each others pockets, sharing the good, the bad and the ugly that life throws their way. Their families are so close, their bonds so tight, a lifelong friendship that nothing could ever break, or so they thought back then.
Many years have past and everything has changed in both their lives. Some of these beautiful connections have been severed by loss, changes, disappointments that are hard to let go sometimes, but the best of times, those happiest of memories still remain, locked in their hearts.
Years later, while Kaitlynn is still in limbo, back in town trying to save her family's restaurant, a Knox Ridge legacy, Oliver has been absent. He left her, became a military man and she hasn't seen him since. Letters were written and cherished, then dwindled, years passed on by and their friendship grew cold.
What will happen when their paths inevitably cross again? Can this old friendship, which was always looking more like unrequited love, be saved and nurtured?
If you've read the Knight of Wands, you'll want to see where Kaitlynn and Oliver's story began and if you haven't, get yourself a copy of this friends to more story that will take you for a ride through this small town romance and grab your heart.
An early copy of this book was generously provided to me and this is my honest review of it.
Becoming next door neighbors at ages 4 and 5, they spend their days, nights and every spare moment in each others pockets, sharing the good, the bad and the ugly that life throws their way. Their families are so close, their bonds so tight, a lifelong friendship that nothing could ever break, or so they thought back then.
Many years have past and everything has changed in both their lives. Some of these beautiful connections have been severed by loss, changes, disappointments that are hard to let go sometimes, but the best of times, those happiest of memories still remain, locked in their hearts.
Years later, while Kaitlynn is still in limbo, back in town trying to save her family's restaurant, a Knox Ridge legacy, Oliver has been absent. He left her, became a military man and she hasn't seen him since. Letters were written and cherished, then dwindled, years passed on by and their friendship grew cold.
What will happen when their paths inevitably cross again? Can this old friendship, which was always looking more like unrequited love, be saved and nurtured?
If you've read the Knight of Wands, you'll want to see where Kaitlynn and Oliver's story began and if you haven't, get yourself a copy of this friends to more story that will take you for a ride through this small town romance and grab your heart.
An early copy of this book was generously provided to me and this is my honest review of it.
September 8, 2019
This story was originally published as a novella in the Cards of Love: Knight of Wands. Now it has been enhanced into a full novel and it is wonderful! We get the full story of Ollie and Kaitlyn and their wonderful families and friends in the magical town of Knox Ridge.
Ollie and his mom Josey moved next door to Kaitlyn (his Kit Kat) when he was 5 and she was 4. They became best friends and practically family. They spent every free moment together, catching fireflies and playing under the hot Georgia sun with the cicadas serenading them.
Spending vacation every year on Tybee Island and working side by side at Blythe's restaurant. She was his little firefly. They were inseparable until Ollie's senior year of HS when he suddenly started dating the mean girl and practically ignored Kit Kat. After graduation he joined the Army and didn't come home for 12 years.
When he returns home, he finds a very different Kaitlyn running her parent's struggling restaurant. Her dreams are gone like the light in her eyes. He plans to just stop by, take care of business and leave, but the connection is still there. As strong as it was. Trouble is, his firefly doesn't trust anymore and is so tired of struggling in her own. She is ready to give up. Can he teach her to believe in the magic of fireflies again?
This is a wonderful second chance romance that will melt your hearts. Claudia did an amazing job and I know you're going to love it as much as I did!
Ollie and his mom Josey moved next door to Kaitlyn (his Kit Kat) when he was 5 and she was 4. They became best friends and practically family. They spent every free moment together, catching fireflies and playing under the hot Georgia sun with the cicadas serenading them.
Spending vacation every year on Tybee Island and working side by side at Blythe's restaurant. She was his little firefly. They were inseparable until Ollie's senior year of HS when he suddenly started dating the mean girl and practically ignored Kit Kat. After graduation he joined the Army and didn't come home for 12 years.
When he returns home, he finds a very different Kaitlyn running her parent's struggling restaurant. Her dreams are gone like the light in her eyes. He plans to just stop by, take care of business and leave, but the connection is still there. As strong as it was. Trouble is, his firefly doesn't trust anymore and is so tired of struggling in her own. She is ready to give up. Can he teach her to believe in the magic of fireflies again?
This is a wonderful second chance romance that will melt your hearts. Claudia did an amazing job and I know you're going to love it as much as I did!
September 8, 2019
Chasing Fireflies is such a beautiful and emotional friends to lovers/ small town/ military romance. It’s an extended version of Oliver and Kaitlynn’s story from the Cards Of Love: Knights Of Wands book and I was beyond thrilled that Ms. Burgoa went into more detail and gave us so much more of these wonderful characters.
Oliver and Kaitlynn’s love story gave me all the feels and of course, Ms. Burgoa just couldn’t write a story without some heartbreak and angst. However, it was well worth it as she always finds a way to make me whole again and warm my heart with a touching story. I thoroughly enjoyed reading how Oliver and Kaitlynn met as children and how their bond developed over the years. To me, that was very crucial and set the tone for their future relationship. I’m a sucker for characters who have deep and meaningful bonds with their parents and grandparents and I loved that about Oliver and Kaitlynn. Their journey certainly wasn’t an easy one as they suffered trials and tribulations throughout their lives and I shed a lot of tears for the both of them.
Chasing Fireflies managed to capture my soul with an amazing, flawless, hopeful and consistent storyline. It was filled with so much depth with sexy, tender moments and utterly swoon worthy characters. I found myself craving more and more of this book and I honestly didn’t want to let it go. It’s smooth perfection and I encourage readers to take a chance on it as you will not be disappointed.
Oliver and Kaitlynn’s love story gave me all the feels and of course, Ms. Burgoa just couldn’t write a story without some heartbreak and angst. However, it was well worth it as she always finds a way to make me whole again and warm my heart with a touching story. I thoroughly enjoyed reading how Oliver and Kaitlynn met as children and how their bond developed over the years. To me, that was very crucial and set the tone for their future relationship. I’m a sucker for characters who have deep and meaningful bonds with their parents and grandparents and I loved that about Oliver and Kaitlynn. Their journey certainly wasn’t an easy one as they suffered trials and tribulations throughout their lives and I shed a lot of tears for the both of them.
Chasing Fireflies managed to capture my soul with an amazing, flawless, hopeful and consistent storyline. It was filled with so much depth with sexy, tender moments and utterly swoon worthy characters. I found myself craving more and more of this book and I honestly didn’t want to let it go. It’s smooth perfection and I encourage readers to take a chance on it as you will not be disappointed.
September 4, 2019
Oliver and Kaitlynn have been friends since well forever! They have been so ingrained in one another’s life that when things start to change neither one knows what to do but they do their best to stay in contact! When life once again changes Ollie finds himself back home but his Kit Kat is no longer who she once was and Ollie is trying to do all he can to salvage what is left of their bond and hoping it’s not to late to start forever, but in a different sense this time!
I love how claudia gave us more insight into their childhood! I feel she did amazing at showing how strong their bond is and why things happened the way they did! I loved Ollie and Kit kats story before when it was a short novella but I found myself completely CONSUMED with their story and it’s pure perfection!
Take a Chance on love and read this amazing story that will have you laughing and crying right Along with these beautiful characters!
I love how claudia gave us more insight into their childhood! I feel she did amazing at showing how strong their bond is and why things happened the way they did! I loved Ollie and Kit kats story before when it was a short novella but I found myself completely CONSUMED with their story and it’s pure perfection!
Take a Chance on love and read this amazing story that will have you laughing and crying right Along with these beautiful characters!
September 9, 2019
She's his firefly! Floved!
Oliver & Kaitlynn meet as children when he & his mom move in next door. She's from the beloved Blythes and he's a Tanner. He's painted with the old family rep despite only being a young boy. Except Kaitlynn, or as he comes to call her Kit Kat, instantly becomes his person. They spend their childhood as bff's and denying their feelings are more as they grow older. After being away from home for 12 yrs with the military, Ollie comes home to a broken Kit Kat. The story of how they both find their happiness is full of feels. Have a tissue handy because you will need it. Tears of sadness and happiness. This small town romance is heartwarming, passionate, and tragic all at once. Fantastic. I received a review copy. I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Oliver & Kaitlynn meet as children when he & his mom move in next door. She's from the beloved Blythes and he's a Tanner. He's painted with the old family rep despite only being a young boy. Except Kaitlynn, or as he comes to call her Kit Kat, instantly becomes his person. They spend their childhood as bff's and denying their feelings are more as they grow older. After being away from home for 12 yrs with the military, Ollie comes home to a broken Kit Kat. The story of how they both find their happiness is full of feels. Have a tissue handy because you will need it. Tears of sadness and happiness. This small town romance is heartwarming, passionate, and tragic all at once. Fantastic. I received a review copy. I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
May 20, 2025
This has to be one of the most frustrating books I have read in a while. I am finding I have a lower tolerance for stories where the h is that clueless she comes across as self absorbed and stupid. Sometimes even being smacked in the face with a wet fish won’t make her stand up and realise what’s in front of her, she just continues on with the woe is me, pity party.
And also let’s not forget to discuss the fact that she never actually discussed the sister with him apart from
What was written in the letter. Yes he was young, yes he regretted it, but surely I’m not the only one who regardless of whether you forgave him wouldn’t even consider discussing it with him…
I’m giving it 3 stars because although I’m frustrated, 2 stars is a bit harsh a rating because it was still well written.
And also let’s not forget to discuss the fact that she never actually discussed the sister with him apart from
What was written in the letter. Yes he was young, yes he regretted it, but surely I’m not the only one who regardless of whether you forgave him wouldn’t even consider discussing it with him…
I’m giving it 3 stars because although I’m frustrated, 2 stars is a bit harsh a rating because it was still well written.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 29, 2022
I fell in Love with Oliver and Kaitlynn when they first appeared in Knight of Wands, as part of the Cards of Love series. Their story was so beautiful and I am so, so happy that Burgoa gave us more of their heartfelt friends to lovers romance!
Oliver and Kaitlynn have been best friends from the moment Oliver and his mom moved in next door when he was 5 years old. They bonded over the magic of fireflies, laughter, and the desire to make each other happy. Oliver was young and made some foolish decisions, but Kaitlynn stuck with him through it all, even when he joined the service. They tried to stay close, but time and miscommunication caused them to lose touch. Now Oliver is home, and when he sees Kaitlynn, he can't remember why he stayed away so long. Kaitlynn has suffered not only the loss of her parents but also her dreams. She is kind and selfless, but working so hard to keep her parents dream alive has made her tired and disenchanted. Oliver sees his chance to help her realize all her dreams, rebuild her trust in him, and to finally make her his. Now he just needs to convince her to give him a chance. Oliver is so charming, and kind, and his new found confidence and passion is so swoon worthy! I loved discovering the depth of their history and connection in the letters they wrote each other. It made me care even more for them and cheer for their HEA!
Stella Hunter and J.F. Harding were amazing at bringing this story to life. Hunter so perfectly moved between the young carefree Kaitlynn to the disenchanted, broken adult, and then the hope filled, loving woman she was always meant to be. This is the first time I've heard Harding and he had my heart racing from beginning to end. I truly felt the love Oliver had for Kaitlynn and the myriad of emotions as he tried to make her fall for him again. Hunter and Harding made this beautiful, heartfelt, and sexy story of love, trust, forgiveness, and second chances a phenomenal audio experience!
Oliver and Kaitlynn have been best friends from the moment Oliver and his mom moved in next door when he was 5 years old. They bonded over the magic of fireflies, laughter, and the desire to make each other happy. Oliver was young and made some foolish decisions, but Kaitlynn stuck with him through it all, even when he joined the service. They tried to stay close, but time and miscommunication caused them to lose touch. Now Oliver is home, and when he sees Kaitlynn, he can't remember why he stayed away so long. Kaitlynn has suffered not only the loss of her parents but also her dreams. She is kind and selfless, but working so hard to keep her parents dream alive has made her tired and disenchanted. Oliver sees his chance to help her realize all her dreams, rebuild her trust in him, and to finally make her his. Now he just needs to convince her to give him a chance. Oliver is so charming, and kind, and his new found confidence and passion is so swoon worthy! I loved discovering the depth of their history and connection in the letters they wrote each other. It made me care even more for them and cheer for their HEA!
Stella Hunter and J.F. Harding were amazing at bringing this story to life. Hunter so perfectly moved between the young carefree Kaitlynn to the disenchanted, broken adult, and then the hope filled, loving woman she was always meant to be. This is the first time I've heard Harding and he had my heart racing from beginning to end. I truly felt the love Oliver had for Kaitlynn and the myriad of emotions as he tried to make her fall for him again. Hunter and Harding made this beautiful, heartfelt, and sexy story of love, trust, forgiveness, and second chances a phenomenal audio experience!
September 13, 2019
Chasing Fireflies by Claudia Burgoa is a beautifully written romance. This is Kaitlynn and Oliver's story. Kaitlynn and Oliver have been friends since they were just kids and Kaitlynn had this huge crush on him right up until he started dating her sister, Kelsey. For 3 years they date until Kelsey drops him like he has some contaminated disease. It's then Ollie decides to join the military and then Kaitlynn goes on to school. They write to each other while he’s deployed but the letters slowly taper off. They are best friends but they also secretly want more from one each other. Fast forward several years later, Ollie comes back home after leaving the military, but can they finally act on their strong feelings for one another ?
I enjoyed the feels, the chemistry, the pace and the plot in this story. I liked the feelings this story produced and the 2nd chance romance this book brings forth. I would liked seeing this as a full length book since this originally started out first as a novella and the full length book lived up to it's promise as a full length read. Ollie and Kaitlynn have this intense connection that jumps off the pages. I enjoyed reading their love story all over again.
My Rating: 4.6 stars *****
I enjoyed the feels, the chemistry, the pace and the plot in this story. I liked the feelings this story produced and the 2nd chance romance this book brings forth. I would liked seeing this as a full length book since this originally started out first as a novella and the full length book lived up to it's promise as a full length read. Ollie and Kaitlynn have this intense connection that jumps off the pages. I enjoyed reading their love story all over again.
My Rating: 4.6 stars *****
September 9, 2019
Kaitlyn and Oliver were best friends when they were children and over time Kaitlyn’s feelings became much deeper however he was interested in her sister. When he was 18 he decided to pursue a career in the military, but he looked forward to the letters he received from Kaitlyn until they stopped coming.
After the death of her parents Kaitlyn had to put her dreams on hold to manage the restaurant that her parent’s owned but she is struggling under the burden she is carrying with no support. Twelve years later Oliver returns home and when he reconnects with Kaitlynn he wants he realizes that she is all he ever wanted but will he be able to convince her?
I liked both these characters as Oliver is determined to show Kaitlyn that they belong together however after being hurt in the past she is cautious. Their connection goes far behind the physical however they will need to work for their second chance.
After the death of her parents Kaitlyn had to put her dreams on hold to manage the restaurant that her parent’s owned but she is struggling under the burden she is carrying with no support. Twelve years later Oliver returns home and when he reconnects with Kaitlynn he wants he realizes that she is all he ever wanted but will he be able to convince her?
I liked both these characters as Oliver is determined to show Kaitlyn that they belong together however after being hurt in the past she is cautious. Their connection goes far behind the physical however they will need to work for their second chance.
September 10, 2019
This is a classic tale of fear and love. Fear that the other doesn't share the same feelings. Fear that a friendship so important would be ruined. Fear of never having that fairytale love, so that you let the one person that could destroy it all get in the middle. Fear of a love all consuming that you almost lost it. That is what Oliver had with his Kit Kat and what he almost ruins.
But this isn't just a sad tale of lost love. No. THis is a story of love, pure love. A love that starts as a child's love that then blooms into more. Glowing like the light of the firefly they chased as children.
A love that had to spread it wings and grow stronger before they could be together. Oliver and Katlyn were sole mates that had to find their way to themselves first before they could be caught together forever flying in the light of bliss.
Amazing, beautiful and heartwarming that is what this book is to me.
But this isn't just a sad tale of lost love. No. THis is a story of love, pure love. A love that starts as a child's love that then blooms into more. Glowing like the light of the firefly they chased as children.
A love that had to spread it wings and grow stronger before they could be together. Oliver and Katlyn were sole mates that had to find their way to themselves first before they could be caught together forever flying in the light of bliss.
Amazing, beautiful and heartwarming that is what this book is to me.
September 9, 2019
Chasing Fireflies by Claudia Burgoa was a sweet friends to lovers novel that will hold your interest from beginning to end. This is Oliver and Kaitlynn’s story. These two have known each other since they were small. The story takes us on a journey from the moment they first met and follows them throughout the years. Although they lost touch I loved seeing them reconnect again and rebuild what they once had.
Claudia gave us some well-developed but flawed characters and a flowing storyline with this novel. It’s a story about friendship, love, loss, hurt and reconnection. As with all Claudia's books, this novel will evoke a range of emotions from you and give you all the feels.
There was some drama and a bit of angst and I loved it all. This was a heartwarming well-written love story and I would highly recommend it to all lovers of second chances and friends to lovers romance.
Claudia gave us some well-developed but flawed characters and a flowing storyline with this novel. It’s a story about friendship, love, loss, hurt and reconnection. As with all Claudia's books, this novel will evoke a range of emotions from you and give you all the feels.
There was some drama and a bit of angst and I loved it all. This was a heartwarming well-written love story and I would highly recommend it to all lovers of second chances and friends to lovers romance.
September 12, 2019
I fell in love with this book. Chasing Fireflies was a wonderfully emotional story of growing up, friendship, family loss and love. Ollie and Kit Kat met when he was 5 and she was 4. They spent their days exploring and Kat introduced him to the magic of Fireflies at night. They along with their friend Paige grew up in small town Knox Ridge. Ollie and his widowed Mom, and Kat, her sister Kelsey and her Mom and Dad, who owned Blythes, their family owned restaurant. The Blythes were helpers, and the took Ollie and his mom under their wings to help the struggling mom and son out. The families became close and Ollie and kat became best friends. This is the story of the evolution of Ollie and Kat's friendship, of how it evolved, matured and changed over the years, Make sure you don't miss the this wonderful story of friendship, family, loss and love, and learn the magic of Chasing Fireflies
Displaying 1 - 30 of 174 reviews