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The Wilds #1
Smoke Show
A Small Town Firefighter Gay Romance
Never thought a man in uniform could bring me to my knees, but here we are.
When I bought property and escaped to the wilds of Alaska, I was mostly doing it to stand on my own two feet and give my daughter Nina the wonderful life she deserves. I ended up with my annoying brother in tow and my interfering parents, well, interfering. And when the townspeople get mad and the place literally starts burning up around me, all I can do is throw myself on the mercy of Tanner James, the bravest—and sexiest—of firefighters.
The way he looks at me makes me feel things I've never felt before. I'm definitely starting to want Tanner to save me from more than the townspeople's burning rage. But what would a six-two, gorgeous, built, absolute smoke show of a man want with a single dad whose only experience in the sack ended up with a daughter?
Alaska is about to get wilder than I ever dreamed.
This 66k-word novel is smokingly suspenseful, sizzling as sin, and filled with heart-wrenching feels.
Never thought a man in uniform could bring me to my knees, but here we are.
When I bought property and escaped to the wilds of Alaska, I was mostly doing it to stand on my own two feet and give my daughter Nina the wonderful life she deserves. I ended up with my annoying brother in tow and my interfering parents, well, interfering. And when the townspeople get mad and the place literally starts burning up around me, all I can do is throw myself on the mercy of Tanner James, the bravest—and sexiest—of firefighters.
The way he looks at me makes me feel things I've never felt before. I'm definitely starting to want Tanner to save me from more than the townspeople's burning rage. But what would a six-two, gorgeous, built, absolute smoke show of a man want with a single dad whose only experience in the sack ended up with a daughter?
Alaska is about to get wilder than I ever dreamed.
This 66k-word novel is smokingly suspenseful, sizzling as sin, and filled with heart-wrenching feels.
236 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 24, 2020
67 people are currently reading
89 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
December 15, 2020
First book I’ve read by this author and I loved it. I really enjoyed the openness in their relationship and the realism of it. They had real issues and they worked through them together. A real good read indeed. I’m looking forward to the next in the series.
September 7, 2020
Caleb moves to Gateway for the chance to live his own life and wanting the best for his young daughter, not under the over watchful gaze of his parents and away from the memories of his late wife. He doesn't have the warmest welcome but Tanner soon helps him to feel settles once the other man sees that Caleb isn't here to turn their small town into a tourist trap and breathe new life into The Wilds ranch. Others in town may need more persuading after a fire on the property has suspicious origins and they come under attack several more times.
There is immediate attraction between the two men that is quickly acted upon when they get the chance. Something that is a whole new experience for Caleb and so Tanner ensures that they don't rush things whilst also makes sure that they are on the same page when it comes to relationships...... as in he doesn't do them. Of course, it wouldn't be a small town romance if emotions weren't quickly involved though they did feel a little rushed with how little time the two men actually get to spend together with Caleb's work on the ranch and Tanner's work as a smoke jumper.
I really felt for Caleb with everything going against him as he tries to start this new life that everyone keeps telling him is going to fail. No real sense of support from his family though his older brother has travelled with him to help look after his little girl. Gateway definitely has a small town feel where everyone knows everyone but it's also one set in his ways. A select few are not happy about the new arrival and, whilst Tanner wasn't an immediate fan, once he knew Caleb's plans, he and his friends are a great source of support and friendship. The place definitely grows on you but it takes the twist at the end to show it's true colours. Loved how the story turned out and, though there was a lot of stress and worry for Caleb and his family, it played out as a great story with a lot of highs and lows for the ranch and the relationships.
A recommended read and looking forward to reading more from this series, giving HEA to some of the men we got to meet in this book.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
There is immediate attraction between the two men that is quickly acted upon when they get the chance. Something that is a whole new experience for Caleb and so Tanner ensures that they don't rush things whilst also makes sure that they are on the same page when it comes to relationships...... as in he doesn't do them. Of course, it wouldn't be a small town romance if emotions weren't quickly involved though they did feel a little rushed with how little time the two men actually get to spend together with Caleb's work on the ranch and Tanner's work as a smoke jumper.
I really felt for Caleb with everything going against him as he tries to start this new life that everyone keeps telling him is going to fail. No real sense of support from his family though his older brother has travelled with him to help look after his little girl. Gateway definitely has a small town feel where everyone knows everyone but it's also one set in his ways. A select few are not happy about the new arrival and, whilst Tanner wasn't an immediate fan, once he knew Caleb's plans, he and his friends are a great source of support and friendship. The place definitely grows on you but it takes the twist at the end to show it's true colours. Loved how the story turned out and, though there was a lot of stress and worry for Caleb and his family, it played out as a great story with a lot of highs and lows for the ranch and the relationships.
A recommended read and looking forward to reading more from this series, giving HEA to some of the men we got to meet in this book.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
August 26, 2020
Caleb move to small town Alaska to start a dude ranch taking his daughter Nina and brother Eli with him. He discovers small town people aren’t very welcoming.
Tanner doesn’t want an outsider messing about in his town. He’s a smoke jumper and believes outsiders don’t have enough sense to not start fires.
They are both shocked when they spend time together just how right it seems. Then mysterious fires and other odd things start happening.
I liked the book. Being from Alaska I wanted to read it to see what an “outsider” thinks of my home. Other than a few small things she got it pretty right. Nice writing and engaging characters kept my interest. I though I figured out who the bad guy was but I was way off. I hope there’s more books about Gateway and people who live there.
I received an arc of this book
Tanner doesn’t want an outsider messing about in his town. He’s a smoke jumper and believes outsiders don’t have enough sense to not start fires.
They are both shocked when they spend time together just how right it seems. Then mysterious fires and other odd things start happening.
I liked the book. Being from Alaska I wanted to read it to see what an “outsider” thinks of my home. Other than a few small things she got it pretty right. Nice writing and engaging characters kept my interest. I though I figured out who the bad guy was but I was way off. I hope there’s more books about Gateway and people who live there.
I received an arc of this book
November 16, 2020
DNF @ 17%.
This writing is just really not working for me. The narration is rubbing me the wrong way, though I can't put my finger on exactly what it is about it that I don't like. Identical sounding POVs, as well.
I think it's pretty crazy to move to Alaska without any kind of solid plan, but especially with a kid. Why wouldn't you fly up first and inspect the property before moving your 4 year old to a racoon infested, dilapidated cabin in the middle of nowhere?
How do you manage a 30 minute drive back to your house and get there before the fire crew on their plane?
Also, how could a train set have been in storage for 20 years, but you took a picture of it before packing it up to know how to set it back up?
This writing is just really not working for me. The narration is rubbing me the wrong way, though I can't put my finger on exactly what it is about it that I don't like. Identical sounding POVs, as well.
I think it's pretty crazy to move to Alaska without any kind of solid plan, but especially with a kid. Why wouldn't you fly up first and inspect the property before moving your 4 year old to a racoon infested, dilapidated cabin in the middle of nowhere?
How do you manage a 30 minute drive back to your house and get there before the fire crew on their plane?
Also, how could a train set have been in storage for 20 years, but you took a picture of it before packing it up to know how to set it back up?
September 5, 2020
Sexy and Suspenseful
Great characters and a great plot, I really recommend this one, if you love small town romanace, with a mystery.
Great characters and a great plot, I really recommend this one, if you love small town romanace, with a mystery.
January 26, 2022
Light and fluffy, I find the story overall interesting.
Read
March 27, 2021Sudah terpampang jelas di sinopsisnya bahwa pengalaman pertamanya Caleb langsung membuahkan anak. Penasaran kenapa itu bisa terjadi so coba dulu dibaca.
Ibu dari anaknya Caleb yang bernama Sam adalah teman masa kecilnya Caleb yang menjadi sahabat karib hingga mereka dewasa. Hingga pada suatu malam semua itu berubah. Si Sam curhat kalau dia berharap Caleb bakal make a move on her dan Sam selama ini berpikir bahwa Caleb tahu bahwa Sam itu masih perawan dan hanya mau menyerahkan dirinya ke Caleb sementara itu Caleb sama sekali tidak tahu bahwa Sam memendam rasa kepada dia.
Caleb merasa tidak enak, one thing led to another. Sehingga malam itu mereka having sex dan hal itu merupakan pengalaman pertama bagi mereka berdua. Diketahui bahwa Sam itu hamil dan karena Caleb merasa tanggung jawab akhirnya dia menikahi Sam. Hubungan pernikahan mereka itu murni platonic yang hanya berdasarkan pertemanan. Setelah Nina (anaknya Sam dan Caleb) berumur 1 tahun, kesehatan Sam mulai menurun sehingga dia wafat meninggakan Caleb mengurus Nina seorang diri.
Sangat DNF. Terkesan bahwa Sam itu memerangkap Caleb untuk menikahinya. Mencurahkan isi hatinya terdalam ke Caleb, minta dikasihani dan bodohnya lagi si Caleb terperangkap dalam rasa "ketidaknyamanan" karena merasa tidak enak dengan Sam lalu having sex tanpa pengaman (meskipun pakai pengaman, masih ada kemungkinan untuk hamil meskipun di sini tidak dijelaskan pakai pengaman atau tidak tapi kalau menurutku tidak pakai). Pastinya mereka berdua tahu konsekuensinya tp mereka tidak memikirkan itu.
Caleb berkata "kalau Sam masih hidup, apakah kita akan mempunyai open relationship, ataukah berupaya mempertahankan pernikahan atas dasar pertemanan". Jadi Caleb tidak terpikirkan untuk cerai malah lebih memilih untuk open relationship atau mempertahankan pernikahannya. Sangat tidak suka dengan karakter seperti Sam dan Caleb. Sam yang memanipulasi Caleb dan Caleb yang hanya bisa pasrah dan melakukan apa yang Sam mau yaitu Caleb berhubungan tanpa pengaman dengan dirinya. Meskipun tidak bahagia malah berpikir untuk melanjutkan pernikahan dan akan tetap membohongi diri sendiri, kedua-duanya pathethic!
Info tambahan:
Pada saat Sam dan Caleb berhubungan intim, tidak dijelaskan orientasi Caleb itu apa hanya disebutkan bahwa Caleb di umur dia yang sudah 24 tahun masih perjaka dan tidak merasakan percikan sedikitpun ke Sam.
Ibu dari anaknya Caleb yang bernama Sam adalah teman masa kecilnya Caleb yang menjadi sahabat karib hingga mereka dewasa. Hingga pada suatu malam semua itu berubah. Si Sam curhat kalau dia berharap Caleb bakal make a move on her dan Sam selama ini berpikir bahwa Caleb tahu bahwa Sam itu masih perawan dan hanya mau menyerahkan dirinya ke Caleb sementara itu Caleb sama sekali tidak tahu bahwa Sam memendam rasa kepada dia.
Caleb merasa tidak enak, one thing led to another. Sehingga malam itu mereka having sex dan hal itu merupakan pengalaman pertama bagi mereka berdua. Diketahui bahwa Sam itu hamil dan karena Caleb merasa tanggung jawab akhirnya dia menikahi Sam. Hubungan pernikahan mereka itu murni platonic yang hanya berdasarkan pertemanan. Setelah Nina (anaknya Sam dan Caleb) berumur 1 tahun, kesehatan Sam mulai menurun sehingga dia wafat meninggakan Caleb mengurus Nina seorang diri.
Sangat DNF. Terkesan bahwa Sam itu memerangkap Caleb untuk menikahinya. Mencurahkan isi hatinya terdalam ke Caleb, minta dikasihani dan bodohnya lagi si Caleb terperangkap dalam rasa "ketidaknyamanan" karena merasa tidak enak dengan Sam lalu having sex tanpa pengaman (meskipun pakai pengaman, masih ada kemungkinan untuk hamil meskipun di sini tidak dijelaskan pakai pengaman atau tidak tapi kalau menurutku tidak pakai). Pastinya mereka berdua tahu konsekuensinya tp mereka tidak memikirkan itu.
Caleb berkata "kalau Sam masih hidup, apakah kita akan mempunyai open relationship, ataukah berupaya mempertahankan pernikahan atas dasar pertemanan". Jadi Caleb tidak terpikirkan untuk cerai malah lebih memilih untuk open relationship atau mempertahankan pernikahannya. Sangat tidak suka dengan karakter seperti Sam dan Caleb. Sam yang memanipulasi Caleb dan Caleb yang hanya bisa pasrah dan melakukan apa yang Sam mau yaitu Caleb berhubungan tanpa pengaman dengan dirinya. Meskipun tidak bahagia malah berpikir untuk melanjutkan pernikahan dan akan tetap membohongi diri sendiri, kedua-duanya pathethic!
Info tambahan:
Pada saat Sam dan Caleb berhubungan intim, tidak dijelaskan orientasi Caleb itu apa hanya disebutkan bahwa Caleb di umur dia yang sudah 24 tahun masih perjaka dan tidak merasakan percikan sedikitpun ke Sam.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 4, 2020
This is the first book in a new series from an author I have enjoyed reading in the past. It is a quick, low angst read with just the right amount of suspense and steam for this type of book.
Caleb, a single father with a four year old daughter, is new to Alaska having bought an old run down property intending to turn it into a luxury dude ranch. The locals are not impressed. Included in that number is Tanner, an Alaska native and a smokejumper who isn’t keen on the idea of bringing in a bunch of tourists, chain restaurants, etc that will kill the small town vibe and potentially impact the area. After a fire breaks out on Caleb’s property that Tanner and his team get called in to deal with Tanner starts to see a new side to Caleb and Caleb finds himself attracted to the grumpy firefighter.
When there are run ins with some of the locals who are not happy about outsiders, tourists, or gay people and there is more destruction which the local police appear to have no intentions of investigating, tensions escalate and danger increases as Tanner and Caleb try to build a relationship.
The story holds your attention and I read it all in one afternoon of reading. I found some pretty big flaws in the plot (arson=insurance investigators=police involvement…all ignored) and the culprit was pretty obvious to me from the start but it didn’t significantly impact my enjoyment of the storyline. There is one big part of the plot that doesn’t get explained and that’s annoying.
The writing is crisp and the story arc flows nicely. I would have liked more character development, especially about Tanner as there are allusions to his background that aren’t really fleshed out. The crisis moment is dramatic, if a bit forced, and the ending to it kind of anti-climactic. Not quite sure why the author chose a fizzle instead of a bang. The ending of the book is sweet and hopeful. All in all a nice, entertaining read on the deck on a gorgeous afternoon.
**I voluntarily read an ARC and this is my unbiased opinion.**
Caleb, a single father with a four year old daughter, is new to Alaska having bought an old run down property intending to turn it into a luxury dude ranch. The locals are not impressed. Included in that number is Tanner, an Alaska native and a smokejumper who isn’t keen on the idea of bringing in a bunch of tourists, chain restaurants, etc that will kill the small town vibe and potentially impact the area. After a fire breaks out on Caleb’s property that Tanner and his team get called in to deal with Tanner starts to see a new side to Caleb and Caleb finds himself attracted to the grumpy firefighter.
When there are run ins with some of the locals who are not happy about outsiders, tourists, or gay people and there is more destruction which the local police appear to have no intentions of investigating, tensions escalate and danger increases as Tanner and Caleb try to build a relationship.
The story holds your attention and I read it all in one afternoon of reading. I found some pretty big flaws in the plot (arson=insurance investigators=police involvement…all ignored) and the culprit was pretty obvious to me from the start but it didn’t significantly impact my enjoyment of the storyline. There is one big part of the plot that doesn’t get explained and that’s annoying.
The writing is crisp and the story arc flows nicely. I would have liked more character development, especially about Tanner as there are allusions to his background that aren’t really fleshed out. The crisis moment is dramatic, if a bit forced, and the ending to it kind of anti-climactic. Not quite sure why the author chose a fizzle instead of a bang. The ending of the book is sweet and hopeful. All in all a nice, entertaining read on the deck on a gorgeous afternoon.
**I voluntarily read an ARC and this is my unbiased opinion.**
did-not-finish
August 31, 2020DNF 32%
Dialogy docela fungovaly, popisy osob... no, tady už to trochu drhlo - popisy tu byly (myslím všeobecný popis, nejen vzhled), ale byly dost namátkové a nesoustavné - někdy se charakteristika opakovala, něco bylo úplně pominuto, působilo to poněkud začátečnicky.
Větší problém byl v interakcích postav. opět stejně jako většina spisovatelů v začátcích - postavy se chovaly dost podle toho, co bylo třeba ve scénách a působilo to křečovitě. další nepoměr byl v délce jednotlivých scén - strašně dlouhá scéna hraní s holčičkou. Pro příběh zbytečně dlouhá, příběh není o budování vztahu otce a dívky, ale o něčem jiném.
Co mě od knihy odvedlo úplně byla první společná noc MC´s. proč tam jezdili na noc? Čeho chtěli dosáhnout? Vyšetřování snad mělo proběhnout přes den, ne, k čemu bylo to přespání, No dobře, oba se chtěli poznat a hledali záminku, ale proč teda potřebovali to velmi podezřele příhodně pokažené auto. A jejich následné tête-à-tête - napřed si to hezky vysvětlili, pak si dli pusu a pak... NIC??? Ani další pusu? To bylo fakt smutně sterilní.
A poslední věc, která mi fakt vadila byla depresivní atmosféra. Místní je nenáviděli, jeho rodina mu v lepším případě nevěřila, v horším ho nesnášela. Všechno v pasivně agresivní rovině.
Dialogy docela fungovaly, popisy osob... no, tady už to trochu drhlo - popisy tu byly (myslím všeobecný popis, nejen vzhled), ale byly dost namátkové a nesoustavné - někdy se charakteristika opakovala, něco bylo úplně pominuto, působilo to poněkud začátečnicky.
Větší problém byl v interakcích postav. opět stejně jako většina spisovatelů v začátcích - postavy se chovaly dost podle toho, co bylo třeba ve scénách a působilo to křečovitě. další nepoměr byl v délce jednotlivých scén - strašně dlouhá scéna hraní s holčičkou. Pro příběh zbytečně dlouhá, příběh není o budování vztahu otce a dívky, ale o něčem jiném.
Co mě od knihy odvedlo úplně byla první společná noc MC´s. proč tam jezdili na noc? Čeho chtěli dosáhnout? Vyšetřování snad mělo proběhnout přes den, ne, k čemu bylo to přespání, No dobře, oba se chtěli poznat a hledali záminku, ale proč teda potřebovali to velmi podezřele příhodně pokažené auto. A jejich následné tête-à-tête - napřed si to hezky vysvětlili, pak si dli pusu a pak... NIC??? Ani další pusu? To bylo fakt smutně sterilní.
A poslední věc, která mi fakt vadila byla depresivní atmosféra. Místní je nenáviděli, jeho rodina mu v lepším případě nevěřila, v horším ho nesnášela. Všechno v pasivně agresivní rovině.
August 30, 2020
Caleb is wanting a fresh start and figured what better place to do this but Alaska. With his brother and daughter along for the journey, he moves to a ranch to hopefully fix up and start his business catering to the tourist market. What he wasn't expecting was the trouble that came along with starting up his business from the local town people. When he comes into the local bar to hang up filers about his new business, he meets Tanner a local firefighter. Tanner at first makes it clear that Caleb is wasting his time with his new business venture. However when Tanner is called out to Caleb's property after a fire was started near there and started to investigate and hence spending more time with Caleb, he realizes that there is more to him than meets the eye. The chemistry between the two is combustible and they can't deny that there is something between the two of them. Someone however isn't happy about how things are going and are hellbent to make Caleb and family leave town. Can Tanner and Caleb figure out who is behind all of this before its too late. A great story, one that I recommend to all. I can't wait to read the next book in this amazing series...well done!!!
June 26, 2022
Caleb comes off fairly well until he says he up and left Rachel, his sister in law that was practically a full time babysitter to his daughter, in another city without even telling her that he was leaving and taking her niece with him. Not even giving her a chance to say goodbye is fucked up.
I enjoy Caleb and Tanners chemistry, and their first time is hot with Tanner taking the lead but being mindful of Calebs inexperience. However, I felt like it was kind of rushed, I'd have liked it to build that tension a bit longer for another couiple chapters at least. As it is it kind of falls into the whole "all gays have sex immediately after meeting" trope which can get annoying.
That sense of urgency and rapid fire advancement in their relationship sticks all the way through the book, with I love yous coming very soon after them officially becoming boyfriends, and a proposal not long after that. At least they're waiting 6 months or more for the wedding.
The reveal of who he Assembly was actually shocked me, and I did enjoy that there was a plot outside of the basic romance and relocation aspects. It was probably the most interesting addition.
I enjoy Caleb and Tanners chemistry, and their first time is hot with Tanner taking the lead but being mindful of Calebs inexperience. However, I felt like it was kind of rushed, I'd have liked it to build that tension a bit longer for another couiple chapters at least. As it is it kind of falls into the whole "all gays have sex immediately after meeting" trope which can get annoying.
That sense of urgency and rapid fire advancement in their relationship sticks all the way through the book, with I love yous coming very soon after them officially becoming boyfriends, and a proposal not long after that. At least they're waiting 6 months or more for the wedding.
The reveal of who he Assembly was actually shocked me, and I did enjoy that there was a plot outside of the basic romance and relocation aspects. It was probably the most interesting addition.
July 10, 2021
This was okay, and I liked it more than not. The pluses were the setting (I always enjoy books set in Alaska), Caleb (for the most part), and Tanner. Since I definitely enjoyed the main characters, it made for a mostly enjoyable read.
The weaker parts came from a choppy plot () and lack of insight into the characters ().
Despite the downsides, I still enjoyed this because of the easy writing style and enjoyable characters and setting.
3 stars
The weaker parts came from a choppy plot () and lack of insight into the characters ().
Despite the downsides, I still enjoyed this because of the easy writing style and enjoyable characters and setting.
3 stars
August 25, 2020
Thank you for the ARC read, I voluntarily give this book an honest review. Caleb moves to a different state to show his family can raise his daughter on his own, but everyone still seems to second guess his choice from his brother to his sister in law coming to Gateway with no thanks to his parents. Meeting a local fireman opens his eye's to emotions left in limbo after the birth of Nina. Tanner's still unsure of the new guy in town but given the activities happening on his land Caleb and Tanner grow closer. One thing is clear there is corruption in the small town but will it run Caleb off and is it outsiders or local after all someone isnt happy with the new changes. And where does this leave Tanner who is coming to grips with this new feeling of love. Is it just an experiment or is there more. Just loved little Nina that girl could wrap anyone around her little finger after all look at Eli the grumpy Brother. Can't wait to see what is next in store for the Wilds of Gateway.
August 26, 2020
Caleb's starting fresh in so many ways: 💕passion, 😲 danger and family ties
This book is prime example of author Ashton Cade's ability to mix an exciting, suspenseful plot with MM romance. There's plenty of suspense as newly-arrived Caleb sees his remote Alaskan property sabotaged and faces official resistance at finding who's behind the damage and threats aimed at him and his family. Tanner, a local smoke-jumping firefighter arrives on the scene after the first destructive incident and soon single father Caleb is hooked🎣.
I am a pushover for romances with small, cute kids and Caleb's daughter Nina is a plucky bundle of energy and light. I loved the scenes with her and Caleb and Tanner. The romance also had just the right amount of steam for me, judiciously spread through the book.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
This book is prime example of author Ashton Cade's ability to mix an exciting, suspenseful plot with MM romance. There's plenty of suspense as newly-arrived Caleb sees his remote Alaskan property sabotaged and faces official resistance at finding who's behind the damage and threats aimed at him and his family. Tanner, a local smoke-jumping firefighter arrives on the scene after the first destructive incident and soon single father Caleb is hooked🎣.
I am a pushover for romances with small, cute kids and Caleb's daughter Nina is a plucky bundle of energy and light. I loved the scenes with her and Caleb and Tanner. The romance also had just the right amount of steam for me, judiciously spread through the book.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
August 26, 2020
This is a wonderful, well crafted story with two likeable main characters, an interesting cast of side characters and an engaging plot line that flowed along nicely.
Caleb moves to Alaska for some independence and so his cute and precocious daughter can grow up in a beautiful, wild environment. His first meeting with Tanner, a smoke jumper, doesn’t go well but the chemistry is there and once they begin to explore that spark the heat turns up.
Not all the people in town are happy about the newcomer and his plans for The Wilds property and this leads to a nice bit of suspense in the storyline.
I was engaged from the very start and loved the development of Caleb and Tanner’s romance through to their HEA.
There’s minor angst, a super cute young girl, a bit of drama/suspense, lots of feels and side characters who are just begging for a story. A very enjoyable read and I look forward to more in the series.
Caleb moves to Alaska for some independence and so his cute and precocious daughter can grow up in a beautiful, wild environment. His first meeting with Tanner, a smoke jumper, doesn’t go well but the chemistry is there and once they begin to explore that spark the heat turns up.
Not all the people in town are happy about the newcomer and his plans for The Wilds property and this leads to a nice bit of suspense in the storyline.
I was engaged from the very start and loved the development of Caleb and Tanner’s romance through to their HEA.
There’s minor angst, a super cute young girl, a bit of drama/suspense, lots of feels and side characters who are just begging for a story. A very enjoyable read and I look forward to more in the series.
March 3, 2021
"Smoke Show" received TWO stars.
Something was missing between Tanner and Caleb. By the end I just wasn’t feeling their romance and the I love you’s certainly hadn’t been earned on the page. Everyone doubting Caleb was also super annoying. I even felt a disconnect between Nina and her father.
I wanted to like this one, it started out so promising but it just didn’t deliver.
The novel gained *stars* for these items:
* gained for: "The book caught my interest in the first five pages."
1/2 * gained for: "I thought about the book when I was forced to set it down and re-enter society."
1/2 * gained for: "There were no info dumps, poor writing, or copy edit mistakes that jerked me out of the story."
The novel failed to gain stars for this item:
NO STAR gained for: "I was sad when the book ended. I wanted more!"
NO STAR gained for: "That's it. I'm hooked on this author. I will automatically try anything s/he writes."
Something was missing between Tanner and Caleb. By the end I just wasn’t feeling their romance and the I love you’s certainly hadn’t been earned on the page. Everyone doubting Caleb was also super annoying. I even felt a disconnect between Nina and her father.
I wanted to like this one, it started out so promising but it just didn’t deliver.
The novel gained *stars* for these items:
* gained for: "The book caught my interest in the first five pages."
1/2 * gained for: "I thought about the book when I was forced to set it down and re-enter society."
1/2 * gained for: "There were no info dumps, poor writing, or copy edit mistakes that jerked me out of the story."
The novel failed to gain stars for this item:
NO STAR gained for: "I was sad when the book ended. I wanted more!"
NO STAR gained for: "That's it. I'm hooked on this author. I will automatically try anything s/he writes."
August 27, 2020
This is a sweet, sexy and entertaining story with great characters, an intriguing mystery and a wonderful setting. All Caleb wants is to raise his daughter and transform an abandoned property into something wonderful without his family interfering too much. Tanner is not looking for a relationship but when he meets Caleb he cannot deny his attraction to him. They have smoking hot chemistry, a strong connection and I love how their relationship evolves. My favorite part of this story is how accepting Caleb is of his attraction to Tanner. They have a lot to deal with as they try to figure out who is targeting Caleb as well as figuring out what they want from each other. The secondary characters are great and I look forward to reading the next book in this new and exciting series.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
September 17, 2020
An interesting start for a new series!
It is an uncomplicated, insta-lust romance featuring a single dad, adorable little girl and a super hot firefighter.
The story is quite simple and interesting - little town in Alaska is a fresh start for Caleb, a recently widowed dad. He wants a happy and "wild" childhood for his kid, but he gets nothing but troubles when he buys a land in Gateway.
This is a lovely book with likable characters. The chemistry between MCs is pretty good (even though I would like them to spend more time together outside of Caleb's bedroom). The story is fast paced and well written. There is a little bit of drama, but nothing serious ( I had no doubt there would be a happy ending). It is nice, short story and handsome smokejumpers and beautiful Alaska's landscape make it even more enjoyable ;)
* I was gifted a copy in exchange for an honest review *
It is an uncomplicated, insta-lust romance featuring a single dad, adorable little girl and a super hot firefighter.
The story is quite simple and interesting - little town in Alaska is a fresh start for Caleb, a recently widowed dad. He wants a happy and "wild" childhood for his kid, but he gets nothing but troubles when he buys a land in Gateway.
This is a lovely book with likable characters. The chemistry between MCs is pretty good (even though I would like them to spend more time together outside of Caleb's bedroom). The story is fast paced and well written. There is a little bit of drama, but nothing serious ( I had no doubt there would be a happy ending). It is nice, short story and handsome smokejumpers and beautiful Alaska's landscape make it even more enjoyable ;)
* I was gifted a copy in exchange for an honest review *
June 1, 2021
H
I have to say although I do believe attraction can pop up whenever, wherever and be really intense I don’t think you develop deep profound feelings in the blink of and eye with just a handful of conversations, especially when it’s not anything of real sustenance.
I’ll also say that I don’t like the way Caleb knows he’s being dishonest by saying to Tanner « I’m okay with it being some casual fun » when at the same time he’s thinking « he’ll come around ». Hoping for more is okay if you’re open about it, not if you’re preaching the opposite of what you really mean. Personal opinion once more but if at the end he gaslit him, is it genuine then ?
I don’t know what to say about this book. After my initial reaction to it I had a really hard time pushing trough it. I finished it but didn’t like reading it.
I have to say although I do believe attraction can pop up whenever, wherever and be really intense I don’t think you develop deep profound feelings in the blink of and eye with just a handful of conversations, especially when it’s not anything of real sustenance.
I’ll also say that I don’t like the way Caleb knows he’s being dishonest by saying to Tanner « I’m okay with it being some casual fun » when at the same time he’s thinking « he’ll come around ». Hoping for more is okay if you’re open about it, not if you’re preaching the opposite of what you really mean. Personal opinion once more but if at the end he gaslit him, is it genuine then ?
I don’t know what to say about this book. After my initial reaction to it I had a really hard time pushing trough it. I finished it but didn’t like reading it.
August 27, 2020
This book had so many great elements that pulled together to make a great story. Tanner and Caleb meet and their relationship starts off on the wrong foot. They are brought back together by events out of their control and their mutual attraction deepens. The two decide on a casual Frieda with benefits arrangement with no commitment. As time goes on the two develop a relationship but can their newfound relationship stand up to the mysterious happenings on Caleb’s ranch?
This book has a little something for everyone. There’s mystery/suspense, single father, first time gay tropes in one story. There’s a precocious and precious little girl, a developing group of friends and of course there’s the small town and all the entities that entails.
This book has a little something for everyone. There’s mystery/suspense, single father, first time gay tropes in one story. There’s a precocious and precious little girl, a developing group of friends and of course there’s the small town and all the entities that entails.
August 27, 2020
This is the first in a series that really started it out great. Caleb is really an unusual character. He is a dad trying to find his way in the world. He decides he wants his daughter to grow up in a small town atmosphere so he moves to Alaska. He is a very strong personality so when he runs across Tanner the whole would changes. Tanner himself is not looking for a relationship. He is also a strong personality. I found this path these two follow completely pulled me in. The flow of the story is constant with a little mystery tossed in. The characters well developed. I’m now hoping the next in the series will be about Eli. The secondary characters in this story are very attracting. I’m hoping for stories for each of them.
August 27, 2020
A widowed man trying to find a fresh start in the wilds of Alaska with his four year old daughter in tow. A smoke jumper firefighter whose as serious about his job as he is about not doing relationships. When Caleb and Tanner first meet it is the outsider vs. the townie, but also lust at first sight. Even though Caleb has never been with a man before. What starts out with tentative kisses and stolen moments turns into something neither man saw coming. But something sinister lies in this small town and it is aimed right at the newcomers and anyone they align with. Will Caleb find a way to stay and fight for his fresh start and Tanner? Or will the danger chase him away before either man can voice their feelings? I am definitely looking forward to the next book!
October 2, 2020
Intrigue and romance.
A fairly straightforward story, well written, with a decent plot line. Calab and Tanner immediately fall in lust, it all happens very quickly! But they both know exactly what they want, and so go for it.
There's a lot of drama and intrigue in the story, and it was interesting to read about the way in which the MCs' relationship developed while all of this was going on in the background.
There are also a lot of interesting secondary characters, who played an integral part of the story, and weren't just there to pad it out. I'm hoping that they might eventually get there own stories.
A well written story, with an interesting plot line and likeable MCs. Will certainly read any future books, if this is the beginning of a series.
A fairly straightforward story, well written, with a decent plot line. Calab and Tanner immediately fall in lust, it all happens very quickly! But they both know exactly what they want, and so go for it.
There's a lot of drama and intrigue in the story, and it was interesting to read about the way in which the MCs' relationship developed while all of this was going on in the background.
There are also a lot of interesting secondary characters, who played an integral part of the story, and weren't just there to pad it out. I'm hoping that they might eventually get there own stories.
A well written story, with an interesting plot line and likeable MCs. Will certainly read any future books, if this is the beginning of a series.
August 31, 2020
The blurb says it all, a mystery as some one is starting fires, an adorable daughter Nina, Caleb her dad and his brother Eli. meet Tanner the firefighter, chemistry is hot between Caleb who isn’t sure about his sexuality and Tanner who doesn’t do family. Interesting ups and downs Ashton brings the characters to life, I fell in love with them, hot steamy scenes, I look forward to the next book in this series.
I voluntarily reviewed an arc of this book for my honest opinions of which I’m under no obligation to do so. I definitely recommend this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an arc of this book for my honest opinions of which I’m under no obligation to do so. I definitely recommend this book.
November 1, 2020
More like 3.7 for me.
Had to re-read this before I start on the second book in the series. Like both Caleb & Tanner and their interaction and very quick relationship growth. Although I was pretty irritated with Caleb and how he handled his sister-in-law and family in general. Communications people... learn to speak up!
Anyways, overall a good an easy read and well written and edited. Sometimes you just want to get away from real life especially during the lockdown and this really helped.
I received the book as an ARC but the opinion of the book is all mine.
Had to re-read this before I start on the second book in the series. Like both Caleb & Tanner and their interaction and very quick relationship growth. Although I was pretty irritated with Caleb and how he handled his sister-in-law and family in general. Communications people... learn to speak up!
Anyways, overall a good an easy read and well written and edited. Sometimes you just want to get away from real life especially during the lockdown and this really helped.
I received the book as an ARC but the opinion of the book is all mine.
September 4, 2020
Caleb moved to Alaska with his daughter to start a new life after he lost his wife. People in the area and other people are not accepting the changes he's making. He's been threatened and someone is setting fire to his property. Tanner is a gay firefighter and two are attracted to each other the moment they meet. Caleb has never been with a man and Tanner has his doubts. The book is a slow-build relationship, instant-attraction and a precious four year old girl.
September 20, 2020
Got this book as a freebie in exchange for an honest review. Lived the book. Caleb runs away/ or escapes to alaska with his daughter and brother after the death of his high-school wife. Luck for him he ends up in a town with the hottest law enforcement and fire fighter men and meets Tanner. The story how he and tanner get together is a first of what promises to be an enjoyable series. Read it and enjoy it.
August 28, 2020
What a great book! There was a little bit of mystery thrown in, which kept the story interesting and kept me turning pages without putting my kindle down once. The love story developed at a great pace, and I loved the hint for who book 2 might be about. I'm excited to see what comes next.
I received an advanced copy and voluntarily gave my honest review.
I received an advanced copy and voluntarily gave my honest review.
August 29, 2020
A beautiful, sweet and light read. If you are looking for a great read you want to read this. I love the way Ashton Cade brought the characters together. Story was equal parts romance & hot sex. Looking forward to see what's up next
*I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book for an honest opinion*
*I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book for an honest opinion*
September 7, 2020
Caleb comes into town with a business plan. Little does he know how stirred the townsfolk can be. Tanner, fights fires for a living and he will set the fires within Caleb. Corny huh? I loved that Caleb was new to everything but determined to do his best. Their chemistry was a little off at the beginning but quickly turned hot! It’s a story about survival and fighting against odds.
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