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Raging Fire #1

Tony: Slow Burn

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From USA Today Bestselling Author Kallypso Masters comes a new series based on the Rescue Me Saga world. In the Raging Fire Series, Angelina’s four firefighter brothers will experience tragedy on duty and resurgence from a life-defining past heartache.

Tony Giardano, the youngest brother, has always been the clown in the family, but when faced with his first devastating call, nothing seems to matter anymore. He is falling hard, then looks up to see Carmella D’Alessio, Marc’s baby sister.

Carmella, as quiet and unmovable as the mountains surrounding her family’s Aspen resort, finds herself believing that life and love are passing her by after seeing Marc and Angelina’s wedded bliss. But she’ll have to take time away from the resort if she’s going reassess her priorities.

Carmella and Tony haven’t always seen eye to eye, but circumstances make them take a second look during a raw moment. She’s no stranger to dealing with trauma and stress and recognizes that Tony’s hurting.

Can Carmella’s steadfast, quiet strength force Tony to dive deeper and face his vulnerabilities as he learns to cope with the aftermath of his first tragic call? Will Carmella admit she’s ready for more, and will Tony believe he has more to offer?

436 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 25, 2021

89 people are currently reading
85 people want to read

About the author

Kallypso Masters

26 books2,929 followers
Kallypso Masters is a USA Today Best-Selling Author with half-a-million copies of her books sold in paperbacks and e-books since August 2011. All of her books feature alpha males, strong women, and happy endings because those are her favorite stories to read. After dabbling at writing since high school (a very long time ago!) and hoping to become a Romance writer about as long, she’s living the dream and has been since May 2011.

An eighth-generation Kentuckian, Kally is excited to embark on the new Bluegrass Spirits series with stories set in some of her favorite places in her home state.

Kally has been living her own happily ever after for nearly 34 years with her hubby, known to her readers as Mr. Ray. They have two adult children, a rescued dog, and a rescued cat. And Kally lives for visits from her adorable grandson, Erik.

Kally is also the author of the USA Today Bestselling Rescue Me Saga series featuring emotional, realistic Erotic Romance novels with characters finding alternative methods for handling and healing from past traumas and PTSD. She also has published two Rescue Me Saga spinoff books—Western Dreams (Rescue Me Saga Extras #1) and Roar, a standalone with familiar secondary characters from the main series. (Roar will serve as the bridge to a future Romantic Suspense trilogy with Patrick, Grant, and Gunnar.)

To contact or interact with Kally, go to Facebook, her Facebook Author page, or Twitter (@kallypsomasters).

Keep up with news on her Web site (KallypsoMasters.com) by subscribing to her newsletter or signing up for text alerts.

You can e-mail her at kallypsomasters@gmail.com, or write to her at

Kallypso Masters
PO Box 1183
Richmond, KY 40476-1183

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5 stars
91 (59%)
4 stars
34 (22%)
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20 (13%)
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8 (5%)
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
Profile Image for Simply Love Book Reviews.
7,046 reviews870 followers
January 25, 2022
4.5 stars

I was waiting for this series to start and, unfortunately, I missed this book when it came out. When Book 2 was being released, there was no way I wasn’t going to read Book 1 first. And, besides that … I am a huge D’Alessio and Giardano fan and couldn’t wait to read more about the families.

Tony was a surprise. I was mesmerized by Tony and a little bit embarrassed for the way Carmella was acting towards him. Especially at the wedding. But, she redeemed herself as the story went on and I actually started to like her.

From their time on the mountain to their time on the beach, Tony and Carmella grew into two people who deserved love and respect. I thoroughly enjoyed watching the relationship grow into the love that I knew a D’Alessio and Giardano were capable of. I was surprised with the wedding but it was definitely fitting for these two adventurous people. They did things their way … not the way the families would have wanted it. It was private and intimate – just the way their relationship was. So fitting.

I am thrilled that Kally is writing this series. I am from a firefighter family and appreciate the attention to detail that she always brings to her stories. From BDSM to Firefighting, I can always count on her doing her research before she puts pen to paper. Her characters are always complex and her stories just flow off the page. It will be interesting to see where she is going to bring Matteo and Franco.

Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
Profile Image for Erin Lewis.
6,204 reviews221 followers
August 21, 2021
5 Star Review Tony: Slow Burn (Raging Fire #1) by Kallypso Masters
Firstly I have to say that when I see the name Kallypso Masters, it is an automatic purchase and I was beyond excited when I learnt that she had a new series releasing. Tony: Slow Burn is book one in the Raging Fire series and if this book is anything to go by, then Ms. Masters has another winning series on her hands.
This is youngest brother, Tony Giardano and Carmella D’Alessio’s story and was well written with characters whose story you cannot help but become invested in. There were so many layers to these characters and it was like peeling an onion, layer by layer whilst reading this emotional story.
Tony has always been the fun loving Giardano brother, a bit of a player, but always a committed first responder. After a devastating and tragic call shatters him, he is adrift, lost and uncertain. Carmella and Tony are frenemies at best even though there is an attraction that sizzles between them.
However Carmella senses the struggles in Tony and despite herself she is drawn to him and wants to help. Could Carmella be the piece that will complete Tony, the piece he never knew he wanted or needed?
Tony: Slow Burn made me laugh and cry and it was wonderful to see some familiar faces make an appearance whilst reading. There were times where I sobbed, times where I sighed and times where I couldn’t help but smile.
If you want a story that has heart and soul, then this is the book for you. I cannot wait to see what is next for the Raging Fire series.
10 reviews
June 14, 2021
Slow read and boring!

I love this author but this book did not do it for me. Very slow moving and no plot or story really. I usually read a book in a matter of hours. Just so boring!! Took me several days to read. Did not get any better! I kept waiting and trying to get interested.
Profile Image for Sally.
417 reviews4 followers
June 15, 2021
Oh noo 😭 I’m giving this book 3 stars 🌟🌟🌟

I loved this authors Rescue Me series, and I really enjoyed these characters, but the story felt too long, and dragged out, from 50% onwards I starting skipping pages as nothing was happening 😩 Such a shame!
Profile Image for Dar.
4,535 reviews92 followers
May 23, 2021
This was an emotional read laced with deep seeded pain but also full of hope and inspiration. Tony and Carmella shouldn’t fit, shouldn’t work, but some how, they see something in the other, and can’t stay away. At times things are stark and raw, in others, it is soft, sweet, and comforting. Trauma in life is never easy, and Tony takes time to get where he needs to be, at the times he wants to be there. Nothing is glossed over, and an attraction and secret relationship are weaved throughout. I loved the realness of the characters and their story. I loved the emotions that were true and not held back. I loved the vulnerability and love, not just between Tony and Carmella, but their families with them. I loved the slight nod to the unknown and the mystical. I loved the journey that Tony and Carmella take and the things they learn about each other and themselves as they fall in love <3
135 reviews2 followers
May 30, 2021
Absolutely loved this start of a new series by Ms. Masters.

Feels like I was waiting a long time but it was so worth it, the writing was excellent, as I have come to expect, the storyline just sucked my in at the start then spat me out at the end desperate to read the next in the series.
Both of the main characters have had 'bit' parts on he Rescue Me series but if you've not read that don't let it put you off. Tony is a firefighter, and Carmella work at her families resort, they initially meet as Tony's sister marries one of Carm's brothers, let's just say they didn't get on.

I'm not going to spoil the story, just read and enjoy, the detail in the storyline is so good you become fully enmeshed and both don't want to put the book down but also don't want it to end, I would have given it more than 5 stars if I could
Profile Image for Lisa Gibbs.
802 reviews2 followers
June 2, 2021
Wow, Ms. Masters knows how to tell a story. This book was a roller coaster of emotions. I actually finished the book with tear-stained cheeks and a smile on my face. Tony and Carmella's story is touching and sweet and sheds light on the fact that so many first responders make huge sacrifices in order to save lives and continue their training. I have a new respect for them after reading this book. I very much enjoyed Tony can Carm's love story. It was as unique as the characters themselves. I learned a few new things as their wedding was absolutely perfect and very romantic in a very unique way. The love they have for family and each other comes through the pages and grabs you by the heartstrings. This story will stay with me for a very long time. I look forward to seeing Tony's brothers find their way to love.
1,360 reviews
June 18, 2021
This book was simply amazing and this story was beautifully written by author Kallypso Masters. Her penchant for details really bring realism to the scenes you’re reading and gives you all the feels. My heart hurt for Tony at what he went through on the job and it takes a strong man to show his vulnerability to the woman he’s starting to develop feelings for. I really enjoyed the witty dialogue and bantering between him and Carmella and how supportive she was of Tony. These two had incredible chemistry and they certainly scorched the pages. What a great way to start this new series and this book was definitely worth the wait!
Profile Image for Kiristie.
5 reviews1 follower
Read
August 1, 2021
Enjoyable read, prepare to cry then smile.

From one of my favorite authors, comes a new book and new series. Many of the same characters from the prior series makes an appearance here.
Kalypso Masters deals with hard topics in a healthy and strong manner that I wish many had the skills and strengths to do so in real life. As a survivor of domestic violence and abuse, I sometimes am triggered by what I read. I have never had that with Master's books. A HEA comes after lots of heartache and pain, but that is part of what allows each of us to grow. Fiction or not, these characters grow to be part of my heart and memories.
Profile Image for Sandra Hobson.
8 reviews
June 10, 2021
Again a realistic portrayal

As a volunteer fire person/ first responder, full time paramedic, & part time LPN, I am glad to see the turmoil we often see and go through ( that we don’t always let people see) portrayed so close to real life as this. I could not put it down. It brought tears to my eyes at times from hitting close to home. I also had to chuckle at the bantering. Thank you.
Profile Image for Elaine Swinney.
2,203 reviews7 followers
June 10, 2021
I got a copy of this book through Kallypso Masters store and I voluntarily chose to review it. I loved this story as expected it gave me a lot of emotions, it ran the scale. I always expect to feel things when I read a Kallypso Masters book. This one met my expectations. This is a well written story with wonderful characters. I loved the fact we got to revisit some of characters from some of her other books. This one is worth your time.
Profile Image for Dawn Baffa.
371 reviews1 follower
June 11, 2021
Welcome back to writing

After a four year hideous from writing Kally's back. I've been waiting for her to start this series. I enjoy thesebrothers, in other stories they were caring, had humor, and always gentlemen. This is a story about PTSD from Tony tragic event from losing a Mom and her baby.
Profile Image for Annette.
536 reviews
June 23, 2021
It's been awhile since we had book from Kallypso Masters but she doesn't disappoint. Tony Slow Burn is the story of Tony and Carmella. This is an enemies to lovers storyline. Tony has a bad call and is suffering after effects from it. Carmella helps him deal with these effects. This is a steamy and easy to read book. Highly recommend you read it!
1,239 reviews18 followers
November 26, 2021
Fantastic

Such a great book. I loved Tony and Carmella's story. So much angst, travesty and love. One thing I love about this author is that she isn't afraid to write about the hard stuff real life hard stuff and you definitely feel what the characters are feeling. I loved this book and can't wait for the next book.
Profile Image for Roni Booth.
104 reviews2 followers
May 27, 2021
Loved it!!

Oh Kally! I'm in love with this series already. Tony and Carm are an amazing couple. The way they supported each other is the stuff dreams are made of. Of course the conflicts at first made it very interesting. Thank you for another great read.
Profile Image for Chris Murray.
489 reviews7 followers
May 31, 2021
Hot Romance

Kally once again has a wonderful romance. A hot alpha firefighter and and a strong women hike the difficult trail of love. Tony must deal with his own demons in the aftermath of a devastating rescue. Carmella needs to search within as to what is next for her.
Profile Image for Sheila.
233 reviews1 follower
June 11, 2021
Tony and Carmella

I love a great story when the heroine is strong, feisty, and sure of herself. Tony is not weak but wounded. Carm is in the right place at the right time. Friends first. And under unusual circumstances. Great book!
1 review
June 20, 2021
An excellent start to a new series. As always, Kallypso delivers a steaming hot story mixed with emotional satisfaction. I loved watching Tony and Carm grow into friendship and partnership, and their struggles along the way. I can't wait to continue with the Giardano family!
Profile Image for Katie Campbell.
18 reviews2 followers
June 22, 2021
Slow moving.

Normally I like her books, but for me this was slow moving with little conflict. It was ok, but took me quite a while to get through because I wasn’t overly excited about the book
Profile Image for Wendy.
318 reviews1 follower
July 14, 2021
WOW, I loved every word of this story about Tony and Carmella, Kallypso can really tell a story, she goes into depth with each character, you can definitely tell she does does her research, loved loved loved it <3
Profile Image for Pamela.
1,252 reviews11 followers
March 30, 2023
Awesome read

A very emotional well written book. That has you heart wrenched for the characters. Give you even more respect for our first responders. Their journeys they travel the degree of grief that people carry is something that is so heartfelt. Cant wait to read more
Profile Image for LORRIE.
3,535 reviews63 followers
May 30, 2021
This was Northern great read with these fantastic families
282 reviews3 followers
May 30, 2021
Beautiful new series from Kallypso Masters.

Loved, loved, loved it!!!
Profile Image for Darla Shick.
19 reviews
June 23, 2021
Amazing

It was a beautiful love story .your writing is amazing the story kept me so interested I didn't put it down. Can't wait for more.
4 reviews
June 26, 2021
Loved it

I eagerly await every new book from Kallypso.
It's a great story and I can't wait for the next book.
Profile Image for Emma Prosser.
165 reviews2 followers
July 30, 2021
The start of a spin off series to Masters at Arms. This fist book features Angelina's brother Tony, and Marc's sister Carmella. A difficult and hard journey finally brings these two together.
Profile Image for Debbie.
1,602 reviews1 follower
November 16, 2021
WOW!!

What a great book!! I just absolutely loved it from beginning to end!! A definite must read!! Happy Reading!!! :)
Profile Image for Maria11.
2,001 reviews45 followers
July 17, 2024
slow is the key word

I love this author and the emotions in her stories, but dang this dragged beyond drag. I even read two other books while reading this. Good but slow.
Profile Image for Gaia.
232 reviews14 followers
July 22, 2021
The "burn" was so slow that reading became boring for the first 75-80% of the book. I swear I'm going to implode if a read again "Carm deserves better".

It was so very slow-moving that it took me more than a month to finish (with) it. I usually read a book in a matter of hours or a few days, but this one got very close to be my first DNF. Sooo slow boring! I only save the last part of the book, and I don't even know if I do it because the book deserves it or because I was so willing to finish that it felt like heaven on earth when it increased the pace and I was nearly done. Never before I had to stop and read other books prior to stand to reach "The End".
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews

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