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One night.
One bet.
And now my world is turned upside down.
Apparently, you're not supposed to fall for the rebound guy.
Guess I didn't get the memo, because the first man I jump into bed with happens to be the one who sparks a flame in my heart.
With his rakish charm and Irish accent, he steals my sanity and inhibitions.
It's not long before I'm dreaming of something more than a quick fling.
There's just one problem:
Griffin Gallagher happens to be the one man my brother despises.

189 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 28, 2020

330 people are currently reading
1231 people want to read

About the author

A.K. MacBride

24 books1,136 followers



Introducing A.K. MacBride, a passionate wordsmith with an insatiable love for crafting heartwarming love stories. She brews tales as tantalizing as her coffee and indulges in the bittersweet world of dark chocolate, all while savoring life's sweetest moments in a quaint South African town.

When she's not creating intricate tapestries of love, longing, and untold desire, you'll often find her lost in the aromatic embrace of freshly brewed coffee—her trusted companion in moments of reflection and creativity. As the rich aroma permeates her writing sanctuary, she lets her imagination soar, conjuring captivating characters and delightful encounters that leave her readers yearning for more.

But it's not just coffee that sets her heart aflutter. A connoisseur of the finest dark chocolate, she indulges in the velvety decadence, allowing its rich flavors to inspire her characters' intense passions and the intricacies of their relationships. Just as the delicate balance of flavors dances on her taste buds, her writing tantalizes the hearts of her readers, leaving them craving the sweetness of true love.

Amidst the joyous chaos of her literary world, she finds unwavering support and endless love in her husband and daughter. They are the pillars of her existence, a constant reminder that true romance is not only found within the pages of a book but also in the tender moments shared with loved ones. With their presence in her life, her stories overflow with authenticity, depth, and the promise of happily ever afters.

So, grab a cup of coffee, savor a piece of dark chocolate, and lose yourself in the tender embrace of A.K. MacBride’s enchanting tales. For within the pages of her novels, love blossoms, hearts mend, and extraordinary journeys of the heart await, all crafted with the delicate touch of a romance author who understands the power of a perfectly brewed love story.

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5 stars
223 (28%)
4 stars
278 (35%)
3 stars
200 (25%)
2 stars
60 (7%)
1 star
26 (3%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 126 reviews
Profile Image for Syndi.
3,723 reviews1,044 followers
March 10, 2021
Instant Heat is a sweet NA romance book. The book has min angst/ drama. The writing is easy flow. I could wish to have more drama on the story so it is not boring. I want to see more conflict between Griffin and the Rae's brother.

The insta lust between the characters is sweet with Griffin being super gentleman. He is respectful of Rae. It started as a bet of ONS and turns into something more. And I love Irish accent. I was listening to the audiobook. The narrator done a good job with the Irish accent.

Overall I do enjoy the story OK.

3 stars
Profile Image for Penny.
475 reviews64 followers
April 28, 2023
This book under different circumstances could have been more enjoyable for me but, unfortunately, I didn't like it as much as I hoped I would.

I'm trying to get out of my reading slump and this book didn't help me at all. It lacked depth, (which is totally fine, of course, sometimes I do want to read some light story) it was instant-lust (I should have taken the hint from the title but I didn't) and basically it didn't work for me at this moment so don't take this rating seriously. 2 ⭐

Profile Image for K.  Ramjohn.
2,539 reviews
November 20, 2020
Instant Heat was my 1st AK MacBride novel and I loved it. This romance was sweet yet hott with a bit of family drama included and I was hooked from beginning to end. There was no denying the instant, intense chemistry between Rae and Griffin and the author did a great job of making them both likable and relatable and bringing out the emotions in the story. This was a short quick read but there was a lot in the story and I absolutely loved it.
The audiobook was narrated by Gregory Salinas and Lessa Lamb and they were perfect for these characters. They brought out the characters personality and Gregory's accent was amazing. Their voices blended well together and the narration was clear and understandable. These two brought the story to life and it was a pleasure listening to them narrate this novel.
Pink Flamingo Productions
Profile Image for Rina's Reads.
1,656 reviews44 followers
October 31, 2019
Griff and Rae are the perfect match.
Like Insta-love with a side of sweet and swoon?
Then you need to read this story.
A quick and easy read that will leave you with a smile on your face.
Profile Image for Tasha Mahoney.
1,215 reviews45 followers
February 21, 2021
Instant Heat is a sweet romantic tale and Rae and Griffin. The story leaps straight into a bet between girlfriends that means Rae approaches the super hot Griff. Their romance is a meet hot that develops into something deeper very quickly. The problem is that Rae's brother has huge problems with Griffin. The chemistry is a sizzler from the start and I liked Rae and Griffin from the start. Griffin a male lead with layers and while this was not a long story, we get to see the good and bad in both his life, and Rae's.
Thatcher was not a character that I easily warmed to, from the start he needed to pull his big boy pants up. Does he redeem himself? You will need to find out for yourself and draw your own opinions.
Unlike a lot of people, I grew up around firemen, my dad was one, so I am not someone that fans their face at the thought of them. Don't get me wrong, I admire them completely, they are brave and amazing, but for me to find a character attractive, there has to be a lot more going on. I did think that Griffin had that extra something.
Gregory Salinas does an awesome Irish accent and he and Lessa Lamb did a fantastic job with the narration from start to finish.
🎧AudiobookObsession 🎧
Profile Image for Shedevilreads Bookstagram.
2,156 reviews108 followers
October 28, 2020
Instant Heat by A.K. MacBride is a contemporary romance that I listened to on audio narrated by Gregory Salinas and Lessa Lamb.

This is the first book of A.K.’s that I have read and it definitely won’t be my last. All I can say is Wow! I was hooked from the very beginning. I absolutely loved Rae & Griffin! The chemistry between them was HOT!!

This is listed as the first book in the Breathing Hearts series. I can’t wait for an announcement for book two!

Lessa and Gregory did an amazing job on the narration. They both really know how to bring a story to life. I look forward to listening to more of their work in the future.

I would highly recommend this book if you love contemporary romance or romantic comedies.

AudiobookObsessionVIPReviewer
Profile Image for Tammy Bulcao.
918 reviews11 followers
January 31, 2021
The title says it all!💜

Definitely instant heat. The chemistry was on fire. The characters are fun and I loved the storyline. Romance, family drama and hot sex this story has it all. The narration was very good. I recommend this book.

Sisters Spotlight 💜
Profile Image for Flavs is Mrs David Gandy♥~♥’.
3,428 reviews2 followers
March 23, 2021
3.50 Stars

This was a sweet romance. I have to say I loved the narrator’s Irish accent 😊

Rae met Griffin one night in a bar after a bet with her friends, trying to get her to be over her previous relationship. She and Griffin had instant chemistry which led to a one night stand. However the next morning when Griffin got up Rae was gone.
Rae was totally swoony over Griffin but unbeknown to her Griffin was the new guy at her brother’s fire house and the one man her brother couldn’t stand. How will this end. Will Rae have to choose between Griffin and family???

Like I said instant chemistry for these two, and the story just flowed easily. Not a lot of drama or angst. (Which I maybe wanted a bit more confrontations between Griffin and Thatcher 😊 ) I loved the narration of this story, Gregory Salinas I loved the Irish Accent and Lessa Lamb’s voice was definitely a plus for these characters.
Profile Image for Booklover Mercis Bookish Blog.
337 reviews23 followers
October 12, 2021
Rae and Griffin are two pieces of my heart I didn't know we're missing. Griffin with his Irish accent and golden heart and Rae who became a warrior after going through so much. This story lifted me, tore my heart then stitched it back together. Cannot wait to read book 2!
Profile Image for ReadonReader.
2,633 reviews6 followers
January 19, 2021
Rae and Griffin have an immediate attraction that neither can fight but Rae has been burned before by exes who she has rushed into things with. Rae doesn’t want to rush things with Griffin but she can’t deny that there is something so much more about their chemistry and Griffin is willing to show her. This book is a fast paced read with instant attraction that leads to more and what I liked is how they were willing to fight for it to see what would come of it. Griffin hasn’t had it easy as a firefighter who lost a lot and now is thrown into a new station with guys who are not to pleased he’s there but one of those hotheads turns out to be Rae’s overprotective brother can they stand the heat or will they crumble before they even really start? Very good read and can’t wait to see what will happen next.
Profile Image for Bette.
3,304 reviews24 followers
October 31, 2020
Fabulous Story & Listen🎧 A Sweet & Spicy🔥Delight!

Instant Heat
Breathing Hearts, Book 1
By: A. K. MacBride
Narrated by: Gregory Salinas, Lessa Lamb

I loved everything about this book, from A.K. MacBride’s wonderful writing style to the characters and story she created to her perfectly casted narration team who brought the characters and their story to life. This novella sized book packs a lot of story, it immediately grabbed my attention and captivated it the entire time. The characters are realistic, easy to relate to and connect with. Raelin “Rae” is out with friends partying at a local bar, her last relationship ended badly and her friends think she is ready to move on, so on a bet she approaches a guy at the bar. Griffin Gallagher, after a tragedy he left his old life behind, he moved to a new town and will be the new Lieutenant at the local Firehouse. Hanging at the bar he is approached by a gorgeous woman. There is an instant connection and the chemistry between them is smoking hot. I thought these two were perfect for each other despite their own issues and baggage, adding to more conflict is Rae oner protective brother who turns out to be a thorn in Griffin’s side at the firehouse. I loved how every thing plays out in this book the story flows naturally and is beautifully plotted. There is plenty of drama, a touch of angst, heartfelt and emotional moments and some hot romance. A.K. MacBride, thank you for this fabulously entertaining and enjoyable story.

I listened to the Audible edition, Gregory Salinas and Lessa Lamb did an awesome job portraying the characters, they grasped each character’s persona and made the role their own. Gregory Salina’s Griffin was absolutely perfect, Irish accent and all. Lessa Lamb’s Rae was perfection too. They captured their characters emotions which was reflected in their performance. These talented and versatile voice artists are entertaining storytellers and a pleasure to listen to. Thank you for another fabulous listen🎧

Thank you @PinkFlamingoProductions @AudiobookObsession #TheFlock #AudiobookObsessionReviewer🎧
Profile Image for Kari Hansen.
12.3k reviews92 followers
October 29, 2020
After the way Rae’s last relationship ended she is questioning her judgment when it comes to men, but during a girl’s night accepting a bet could be the best decision she ever made. Griffin has recently moved to town looking for a fresh start and trying to heal from a tragedy when a beautiful woman approaches him at the bar.

There is no denying the chemistry and connection between them but will Rae have to choose between her love for Griffin and loyalty to her brother?

I listened to an audio copy of the book and thought that the narrators were a great choice for the characters, especially Griffin's sexy brogue. Audiobook Obsession 🎧
Profile Image for Michaela | Reading in the Heartland.
3,697 reviews71 followers
November 7, 2019
A shorter, powerful, whirlwind of a romance. It really does have "all the feels." I love the characters, the setting, that there were no overt sex scenes. I loved it.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Ryleigh Sloan.
Author 18 books434 followers
November 16, 2020
Since my hubby and me fell in love almost instantly, I love me a good insta-love story. This one did not disappoint and will warm your heart.
I loved it.
Profile Image for Coco.V.
50k reviews128 followers
Want to read
October 28, 2021
🎁 FREE on Amazon today (10/28/2021)! 🎁
Profile Image for Mary Dean.
747 reviews1 follower
February 16, 2021
Holy smokes...instant heat is totally right for this romance. I am not a big fan of insta love fan, but this story was so believable. I am sure I would fall in love with sexy irish accent Griffin too. Rae is on the rebound from heart break. She meets Griffin and they have what she thinks will be a one night stand. They are both wrong. The instant heat (see? perfect title!) they both feel can't be ignored. But there is an issue. Griffin and her brother are new enemies. Griffin has come into town taking the job her brother wanted. He blames Griffin, but it's really his own temper that is his enemy. Rae might have to chose between love and family. I loved this romance. And talk about steamy! Rae and Griffin are it! Holy smokes! I love that this book was narrated by two narrators I love. They brought the story to life and set my headphones on fire! I loved every minute of it. I did want it to be longer. But it's a series so I can't wait to dive into more. Another romance to obsess over from A.K. MacBride. I swear everything she writes is top shelf.
Profile Image for Hollyanne.
904 reviews
January 28, 2021
Instant Heat is a cute little story about Rae and Griffin. This book is told from dual points of view. Rae was out with her friends when they made a bet that she couldn't have a one night stand with a random stranger. She hooks up with Griffin and it was an instant connection.

Griffin just moved to town for a new job at the fire department. It turns out Rae's brother works at the same fire station, and her brother does not like Griffin from the start. Griffin is recovering from an accident that separated him from his best friend/firefighter brother, and he's having a rough time with it. He blames himself.

Can Griffin save Rae when she needs saving? Will he realize it wasn't his fault what happened to his friend? Will their relationship work with her brother? I really enjoyed this book, and can't wait for more in the series.
Profile Image for Pamela Lilley.
2,204 reviews39 followers
October 29, 2020
Insta Love - you either love it or hate it. I love it, and I loved Griffin Gallagher, the sexy Irish firefighter who meets Raelyn ‘Rae’ Brookes on a night out and is instantly attracted to her. It just so turns out though that he’s her brother’s nemesis, and it’s not going to be easy keeping their new relationship under the radar. A super quick, sweet, romantic and emotional with added drama, and a little twist. Narrated by Gregory Salinas and Lessa Lamb who along with the author are all new to me, and I was impressed by them all. Wonderful story, wonderful characters and wonderful narration.
#AudiobookObsessionReviewer
Profile Image for Sophie Koufes.
1,994 reviews27 followers
October 29, 2020
Audio Review:
Instant Heat (Breathing Hearts, Book 1) is a sweet lust n love at first sight that is perfect listen for a afternoon tea. Dash of angst, sensual moments, & playful banter between the mc's.

Gregory Salinas, Lessa Lamb dual naration sails through with a smooth performance. Gregory Salinas dazzling Irish style reflects through his performance. Lessa Lamb's multi tones differentiate the characters as well as their characteristics. Her sassy art and his lingua franca was the conquest.

🎧 Pink Flamingo Productions VIP Flock 🎧
Profile Image for Isha Coleman.
8,972 reviews173 followers
October 28, 2020
Audio Review: Instant Heat (Breathing Hearts Book 1) by AK MacBride

Narrated by Gregory Salinas & Lessa Lamb

MacBride, Salinas and Lamb come together to steal the heart right out of your chest. I have never fallen so hard, so fast. Instant Heart is a temptation that isheartbreakingly beautiful and hopelessly raw. From broken hearts to shattered egos, Griffin and Rae are a dangerous attraction that holds you by the emotion from start to finish.
Profile Image for Art of Reading.
507 reviews61 followers
January 28, 2021
This was my first book from this author and I loved it!

I was hooked from the very beginning and listening to it on audio was so much better!

I loved the heat level and couldn’t get enough of these characters!

I definitely recommend!
Profile Image for Maaren.
1,461 reviews10 followers
December 17, 2023
Okay, not a lot of depth

An okay story, with insta-lust and minimal angst between the couple (the brother in the mix tries to bring the bite but there’s not much drama there either in the end). The ending was very confusing as we jumped to the “preview” of the new book without any idea.

Also the writing style took some time to get used to since Griffin’s side is written with me instead of my , I assume to mimic his Irish accent. Unfortunately it didn’t work for me.
Profile Image for Erin Trump.
2,260 reviews28 followers
September 26, 2021
This was a nice short & spicy story, with heat and depth! Who doesn’t love a man in uniform and an accent!
Profile Image for Dana McKee NOLA504NERDS.
532 reviews47 followers
October 30, 2020
NOLA504NERDS BLOG
I was lucky enough to receive this audio ARC from Audiobook Obsessions in exchange from an honest review.

This was my first book by A.K. MacBride, and it will not be my last! This story is absolutely beautiful! Raelyn (aka Rae) works at a retirement home and is recovering from a recent heartbreak. Griffin Gallagher is a firefighter who is starting over in a new place/job after a tragic event in his life. Griffin is a sexy and single Irish firefighter with a thick Irish brogue. (bye-bye, panties) A night at a bar and a bet from Rae’s friends brings these 2 together for an incredible one-night stand. You either love Griffin and Rae or you’re wrong. I fell just as fast and hard for these 2 as they did for each other! Griffin and Rae have an instant connection to each other. They’re powerless against the pull to each other and their relationship quickly progresses. As it turns out, Griffin is Rae’s [overprotective] brother Thatcher’s new boss. The unfortunate part to this is that Thatcher hates Griffin and would never be okay with the 2 of them dating. Will Rae have to choose between Griffin and her brother? This story was steamy, fun, and absolutely perfect!!!

You can’t listen to this book without smiling from ear to ear. Gregory Salinas and Lessa Lamb did an impeccable job narrating it. Lessa brings Rae’s character to life. Her tone and flow are a perfect match for Rae’s quirky and fun character. As far as Gregory as Griffin. Omg ladies, hold on to your panties! That Irish brogue! Sweet baby Jesus! I will now be buying every romance audiobook Gregory Salinas has performed for!

5 There’s-A-Fire-In-My-Pants Stars!
NOLA504NERDS BLOG
Profile Image for Reading to Escape.
1,103 reviews
November 1, 2020
**4.5 Stars**

Instant Heat is a steamy, swoony story I was hooked on from the start and did not want to stop listening to for a minute. Instant Heat is about Raelin/Rae, who doesn't have the best track record with relationships and who is no stranger to loss, and Griffin, an Irish firefighter who is struggling with his own demons related to loss and in turn is looking for an escape so he leaves his job and finds himself now working at the fire department in Rae's town.

I enjoyed Griffin and Rae's interactions and them getting to know each other. They had some serious off the charts chemistry, but it was clear they also had a deeper connection as well and that it wasn't all just physical.

This was my first book by the author. I enjoyed the author's writing style and I found the story line to be engaging and enjoyable. I really enjoyed Rae and Griffin and characters and am excited to have found a new author. I look forward to checking out more of the author's work in the future.

Gregory Salinas and Lessa Lamb did a phenomenal job with this story. The accents totally made the whole story and made this book highly enjoyable to listen to. I think this might be my first audiobook by both narrators but after this book, I would definitely recommend both, and I look forward to checking out more of their work in the future.
1,797 reviews38 followers
October 28, 2020
I loved everything about this book! And the fact that there is a hot, sexy Irishman as a main character, just sealed the deal! Raelyn or Rae, hasn't had the greatest luck in the relationship department, so she is wary of men, until she meets Griffin. There is just something about him that she is so attracted to and feels like there could be something more. And Griffin is instantly enamored with Rae and feels that they could become something good. But someone in their life makes it very difficult for them. Can they overcome that obstacle? I certainly rooted for them throughout this story, that's for sure.

The interactions between these two characters is actually very charming, and their chemistry is chart topping steamy! This author writes in such a way that you can envision what the characters look like and can feel their emotions deep in your heart. I truly enjoyed this story, and so will you!
Profile Image for Terri.
902 reviews
November 5, 2020
Audio Review
Raelynn is trying to get over a breakup when her friends bet her she won't find a hot man in the bar and have a one night stand.

Griffin spotted the hot woman across the bar and to his surprise she approached him and told him of her bet. He was happy to participate.

Rae and Griffin are a great couple. There are past emotions for Griff to deal with and Rae's brother isn't happy with their relationship so there is that but they get over the hurdles and move toward their HEA.

Gregory Salinas and Lessa Lamb are great. Gregory does a really good Irish accent and Lessa is perfect for Rae. Loved listening to both of them.

#Audiobook Obsession and #Pink Flamingo Productions provided a code for me to listen and review with my honest opinion. I really enjoyed listening to this book. It has a good story and kept my attention from beginning to end. The narration is great and I recommend this book.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 126 reviews

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