What do you think?
Rate this book
Lieutenant Lucas ‘Flash’ Walker is the epitome of an everyday hero, one who’s hotter than the very inferno he battles. In the midst of an out-of-control fire, Luke’s life turns upside-down, in the worst way since it nearly claims the life of his best friend and fellow firefighter, but also in the best way because what he doesn’t expect is to meet the woman who’ll dictate the beating of his heart in the core of that very hell.
For Firefighter Ella Matthews there’s no better way to battle a haunting past than by making it a present. Or so she believes when she searches for a fresh start in the very city that witnessed her entire life go up in flames sixteen years ago. What she doesn’t foresee in her new beginning is the handsome, charming man she helps out of an inferno.
Unexpectedly as it is, in the instant their worlds collide, sparks fly and they ignite into the flames of a passion that renders them powerless and leaves them craving for more.
But a fresh start might be harder to find than expected. Not when there’s a serial arsonist on the loose who hits closer and closer to home. Not when Ella’s tarnished, crashed and burned legacy left scars and a past that still haunts her. But especially not when amidst an unfolding investigation once they learn more than they bargained for, Luke and Ella find themselves fighting against the clock. One that threatens to break them apart once and for all. Whatever their future brings, they are determined to fight against the merciless odds till the very end for one more stab at that passion that consumes them so thoroughly.
For Firefighter Ella Matthews there’s no better way to battle a haunting past than by making it a present. Or so she believes when she searches for a fresh start in the very city that witnessed her entire life go up in flames sixteen years ago. What she doesn’t foresee in her new beginning is the handsome, charming man she helps out of an inferno.
Unexpectedly as it is, in the instant their worlds collide, sparks fly and they ignite into the flames of a passion that renders them powerless and leaves them craving for more.
But a fresh start might be harder to find than expected. Not when there’s a serial arsonist on the loose who hits closer and closer to home. Not when Ella’s tarnished, crashed and burned legacy left scars and a past that still haunts her. But especially not when amidst an unfolding investigation once they learn more than they bargained for, Luke and Ella find themselves fighting against the clock. One that threatens to break them apart once and for all. Whatever their future brings, they are determined to fight against the merciless odds till the very end for one more stab at that passion that consumes them so thoroughly.
424 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 14, 2021
44 people are currently reading
37 people want to read
About the author
Misha Blake
13 books23 followersMisha Blake is a contemporary romance author who loves to write about the struggles people go through and the odds they fight against for a stab at that happily ever after we all wish for. She is devoted to the kind of stories that are emotion-packed and suspense-charged, writing about the heroes who are as hot and protective as they are Alphas, and the stubborn, feisty and strong heroines who bring them to their knees.
Misha is based in the rainy United Kingdom where if you don’t find her sipping on coffee and plotting, you will find her on a hike, enjoying nature—bating her inspiration to strike.
Misha is based in the rainy United Kingdom where if you don’t find her sipping on coffee and plotting, you will find her on a hike, enjoying nature—bating her inspiration to strike.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews
September 6, 2021
When Misha first told me about this story, I was extremely hesitant because I was definitely not a fan of Luke due to his obsession with Daphne and his standoff with Maddox (which Madd needed and him pushing Madd to do the right thing behind Daph), but still, and because he was an asshole. After starting this book, Misha came out strong with the action right from the start. The struggles, excitement, and turmoil included within these pages, and the emotions packed in, will forever make me view and appreciate firefighters more. And, the plot is everything!! I was completely engrossed with playing detective to solve the mystery.
“The fact that my heart tells me we’re not safe around you.”
Luke has finally met his match with Ella. From her slick mouth to her feisty demeanor and quick comebacks, she singlehandedly brings him to his knees. I absolutely loved her character, strong, independent, humorous, and charismatic, her spunky attitude and kick ass first ask questions later personally. She holds her own in a dominantly male environment as a female firefighter, earning respect through loyalty and tough as each of them. Her tough as nails demeanor captures his attention for the long haul.
She holds me captive with her gaze alone and I can’t seem able to just look away.
Ella brings out a completely different side of Luke in this story. He’s possessive, jealous and a downright caveman with her. And oh his mouth! One thing I can admit I liked about Luke was his shit talking capabilities in and out of the bedroom. I had to set the book down more than a few times because of his mouth. At the same time though, he was supportive and gentle, going above and beyond to help her work through her tragic past, helping put her shattered pieces back together.
I like my romance smutty, raunchy and hot.
Their chemistry explodes off the paper from first contact. The fire between them was unimaginable and ready to combust right from the start. Fireworks ignite every time they’re together, sizzling with every touch, kiss, and intimacy. But, there were also a few cameo appearances with Daphne, who finally sets Luke straight. I may not completely be on board with this other side of Luke because I’m hardheaded and stubborn, but Misha did redeem his character in this story and I’m happy he’s finally found the girl who takes his breath away and captured his heart ❤️🔥
“The fact that my heart tells me we’re not safe around you.”
Luke has finally met his match with Ella. From her slick mouth to her feisty demeanor and quick comebacks, she singlehandedly brings him to his knees. I absolutely loved her character, strong, independent, humorous, and charismatic, her spunky attitude and kick ass first ask questions later personally. She holds her own in a dominantly male environment as a female firefighter, earning respect through loyalty and tough as each of them. Her tough as nails demeanor captures his attention for the long haul.
She holds me captive with her gaze alone and I can’t seem able to just look away.
Ella brings out a completely different side of Luke in this story. He’s possessive, jealous and a downright caveman with her. And oh his mouth! One thing I can admit I liked about Luke was his shit talking capabilities in and out of the bedroom. I had to set the book down more than a few times because of his mouth. At the same time though, he was supportive and gentle, going above and beyond to help her work through her tragic past, helping put her shattered pieces back together.
I like my romance smutty, raunchy and hot.
Their chemistry explodes off the paper from first contact. The fire between them was unimaginable and ready to combust right from the start. Fireworks ignite every time they’re together, sizzling with every touch, kiss, and intimacy. But, there were also a few cameo appearances with Daphne, who finally sets Luke straight. I may not completely be on board with this other side of Luke because I’m hardheaded and stubborn, but Misha did redeem his character in this story and I’m happy he’s finally found the girl who takes his breath away and captured his heart ❤️🔥
September 14, 2021
Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. A positive review is not required
This review can also be found in Currant7 Recommends.
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
Luke Walker is a D.C. lieutenant and is one of the characters mentioned in Sinner's Deceit. His job is not easy, and with recent trauma to his personal life - an accident and a break-up, things are taking a toll on Luke. Coming into Flash, Luke reshifted his priorities to center more on work - with a serial arsonist on the loose in his city, targetting firefighters; while trying to mend his heart.
After needing a fresh start, Ella Matthews is a newly transferred firefighter from Texas to D.C. - back to her hometown. She has a past that seemed more complex than first implied in the synopsis. She wants to heal, and helping people is her penance.
In one of the fire rescues, Ella meets a mysterious man (cue in Luke), who she saves and, in the process, makes her toes tingle and fill her stomach with butterflies. But nope, Ella does NOT want to find out who the mysterious man is, even if she keeps thinking about him even months after the event. Things do not help when her colleagues have been trying to set her up since she arrived at Station 22.
I may be biased with liking Flashbecause (1) I have been waiting quite a bit for Luke's story, and (2) I love the author's writing style and storytelling from the very beginning. Always expect the unexpected is in all my book reviews with her, if you can search it. No matter how much I try, I am still always wrong versus what happened, and I LOVE IT! The author never takes it easy for readers like me. Nope - no easy, straightforward route, so each revelation, clue, secret shared, etc., is complex, huge, and jaw-dropping - wait till you get to the final few chapters.
Appreciate the following:-
(a) The symbolism in the book is perfect and brings in deeper emotions than Luke first realized. This implication was pointed out by someone very close since it did not dawn on him.
(b) The flow of the story is excellent. There is a good balance of clues, mystery, and romance. This book is what romantic suspense should be - not too much of the other.
(c) The plot and "rounding out ending" are nicely done!
The station location, accountability of the characters, connection and build-up, was correctly executed, which made everything believable.
I love deception in the story. These were all successfully executed. There were a lot of concepts mentioned: (1) the "grass is greener on the other side," (2) choosing better life decisions, (3) owning up to one's decisions, and my favorite (4) is about how we all have a choice - to do good or bad" are quintessential things discussed at length in the book. These lessons will never get old for readers.
(d) The love, the family dynamics, connection, and juxtaposition between Luke & his family versus Ella & family (the good and the bad) is spot-on! I hope the readers understand that there will be times of sacrifice and fighting back. I love how the theme of "family" enhanced Ella's and Luke's compatibility.
(e) I love how the story did not just revolve around Ella and Luke since they had to deal with other necessary things versus just their feelings. There are a lot of lives counting on them - saving and solving.
(f) There were a lot of H-O-T scenes that got off too well—balanced with the suspense elements, but when it came time for Luke and Ella's intimacies - unbelievably satisfying!
(g) You know I will mention this and but I love past book series' cameo - my favorite to boot! I am sure their appearance is NOT because they are firefighters (hint hint) and will have more impact on getting to know Luke and Ella.
✅ perfect plot pace
✅ HOT, steamy romance
✅ balanced focus of mystery/suspense and romance
✅ drama and angst
✅ bantering and flirting galore
~*~*~
In summary, Flash is an excellent read for suspense, mystery, and romance buffs! I knew I would like Luke's story even more!
Since I am a big fan of suspense/mystery, which this has, I can't even fathom if I liked the plot/story versus Sinner's Deceit!?! Both leading players are linked in some ways but have different experiences altogether.
My feelings for Luke are less angst (as it should be since he's Luke) but a lot of internal sorting out, which I would want him to do when comparing his feelings about the accident, the case, and his personal life. It discusses excellent themes of family, friendship, and love. Perfect combination and is what I expect from your books.
I do not have anything unfavorable to say about this book. I liked it more as I pondered about it after finishing the book (days after to exact) and made everything real and believable.
The preview of the next book in the series is a whole lot different (180-degrees) to this one, I think. I will need to prepare myself when the author brings the angst, hurt, sacrifices, and drama to a whole new level. One of the following main character's confessions at the end of the book brought me to tears!
This review can also be found in Currant7 Recommends.
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
Luke Walker is a D.C. lieutenant and is one of the characters mentioned in Sinner's Deceit. His job is not easy, and with recent trauma to his personal life - an accident and a break-up, things are taking a toll on Luke. Coming into Flash, Luke reshifted his priorities to center more on work - with a serial arsonist on the loose in his city, targetting firefighters; while trying to mend his heart.
After needing a fresh start, Ella Matthews is a newly transferred firefighter from Texas to D.C. - back to her hometown. She has a past that seemed more complex than first implied in the synopsis. She wants to heal, and helping people is her penance.
In one of the fire rescues, Ella meets a mysterious man (cue in Luke), who she saves and, in the process, makes her toes tingle and fill her stomach with butterflies. But nope, Ella does NOT want to find out who the mysterious man is, even if she keeps thinking about him even months after the event. Things do not help when her colleagues have been trying to set her up since she arrived at Station 22.
I may be biased with liking Flashbecause (1) I have been waiting quite a bit for Luke's story, and (2) I love the author's writing style and storytelling from the very beginning. Always expect the unexpected is in all my book reviews with her, if you can search it. No matter how much I try, I am still always wrong versus what happened, and I LOVE IT! The author never takes it easy for readers like me. Nope - no easy, straightforward route, so each revelation, clue, secret shared, etc., is complex, huge, and jaw-dropping - wait till you get to the final few chapters.
Appreciate the following:-
(a) The symbolism in the book is perfect and brings in deeper emotions than Luke first realized. This implication was pointed out by someone very close since it did not dawn on him.
(b) The flow of the story is excellent. There is a good balance of clues, mystery, and romance. This book is what romantic suspense should be - not too much of the other.
(c) The plot and "rounding out ending" are nicely done!
The station location, accountability of the characters, connection and build-up, was correctly executed, which made everything believable.
I love deception in the story. These were all successfully executed. There were a lot of concepts mentioned: (1) the "grass is greener on the other side," (2) choosing better life decisions, (3) owning up to one's decisions, and my favorite (4) is about how we all have a choice - to do good or bad" are quintessential things discussed at length in the book. These lessons will never get old for readers.
(d) The love, the family dynamics, connection, and juxtaposition between Luke & his family versus Ella & family (the good and the bad) is spot-on! I hope the readers understand that there will be times of sacrifice and fighting back. I love how the theme of "family" enhanced Ella's and Luke's compatibility.
(e) I love how the story did not just revolve around Ella and Luke since they had to deal with other necessary things versus just their feelings. There are a lot of lives counting on them - saving and solving.
(f) There were a lot of H-O-T scenes that got off too well—balanced with the suspense elements, but when it came time for Luke and Ella's intimacies - unbelievably satisfying!
(g) You know I will mention this and but I love past book series' cameo - my favorite to boot! I am sure their appearance is NOT because they are firefighters (hint hint) and will have more impact on getting to know Luke and Ella.
✅ perfect plot pace
✅ HOT, steamy romance
✅ balanced focus of mystery/suspense and romance
✅ drama and angst
✅ bantering and flirting galore
~*~*~
In summary, Flash is an excellent read for suspense, mystery, and romance buffs! I knew I would like Luke's story even more!
Since I am a big fan of suspense/mystery, which this has, I can't even fathom if I liked the plot/story versus Sinner's Deceit!?! Both leading players are linked in some ways but have different experiences altogether.
My feelings for Luke are less angst (as it should be since he's Luke) but a lot of internal sorting out, which I would want him to do when comparing his feelings about the accident, the case, and his personal life. It discusses excellent themes of family, friendship, and love. Perfect combination and is what I expect from your books.
I do not have anything unfavorable to say about this book. I liked it more as I pondered about it after finishing the book (days after to exact) and made everything real and believable.
The preview of the next book in the series is a whole lot different (180-degrees) to this one, I think. I will need to prepare myself when the author brings the angst, hurt, sacrifices, and drama to a whole new level. One of the following main character's confessions at the end of the book brought me to tears!
September 6, 2021
ANOTHER FANTASTIC READ
Firefighter suspense romance
🔥2/3
Before I review Flash, just want to give Misha a massive shout out. I've read all of her books & I've seen the progress in her writing. Every book she writes it keeps getting better & better & I'm so proud of her!
Flash is the first book in the Badges of the Capital series. There is a serial arsonist on the loose. Can Luke find who it is before he hurts the love of his life?
Luke is so different to Misha's other male leads. He is sweet, gentle & loving with an alpha side that we all love. I love his cocky attitude, which tbh can be turn off, but somehow Luke just makes me laugh.
Ella is a straight shooter & I love it. She cracks me up. It's refreshing to not read a damsel in distress heroine, but a strong & independent women who wants a man & I quote, "who knows how to love me and treat me with respect, but pulls my hair and manhandles my body between the sheets.” she said it alright!! 🔥😍😍
I loved the banter between them, they were flirty & funny. The perfect balance.
Luke loves wholeheartedly & isn’t afraid to show it. Their connection is soul bound & I loved watching them falling deeper and deeper in love.
"You can fall freely because that man’s got you.”
AND, dude, the twists, I did not see that coming. I thought I knew what was gonna happen & then BAM!! 😲😲 speechless I tell you. Guys, this is the type of book where you need to cover up the next few sentences because all I wanted to do was jump to the end & find out wtf was happening.
Let's not forget the star of the show, Lexi. She is so adorable 😍😍
favourite scene :
Ella & Luke's first dinner together- I loved the whole chapter. It was so flirty, funny & super cute 😍
*I hope this review makes sense, I woke up early so I can finish this book & review it. I need coffee now 😂
Firefighter suspense romance
🔥2/3
Before I review Flash, just want to give Misha a massive shout out. I've read all of her books & I've seen the progress in her writing. Every book she writes it keeps getting better & better & I'm so proud of her!
Flash is the first book in the Badges of the Capital series. There is a serial arsonist on the loose. Can Luke find who it is before he hurts the love of his life?
Luke is so different to Misha's other male leads. He is sweet, gentle & loving with an alpha side that we all love. I love his cocky attitude, which tbh can be turn off, but somehow Luke just makes me laugh.
Ella is a straight shooter & I love it. She cracks me up. It's refreshing to not read a damsel in distress heroine, but a strong & independent women who wants a man & I quote, "who knows how to love me and treat me with respect, but pulls my hair and manhandles my body between the sheets.” she said it alright!! 🔥😍😍
I loved the banter between them, they were flirty & funny. The perfect balance.
Luke loves wholeheartedly & isn’t afraid to show it. Their connection is soul bound & I loved watching them falling deeper and deeper in love.
"You can fall freely because that man’s got you.”
AND, dude, the twists, I did not see that coming. I thought I knew what was gonna happen & then BAM!! 😲😲 speechless I tell you. Guys, this is the type of book where you need to cover up the next few sentences because all I wanted to do was jump to the end & find out wtf was happening.
Let's not forget the star of the show, Lexi. She is so adorable 😍😍
favourite scene :
Ella & Luke's first dinner together- I loved the whole chapter. It was so flirty, funny & super cute 😍
*I hope this review makes sense, I woke up early so I can finish this book & review it. I need coffee now 😂
September 19, 2021
Luke & Ella love story start with a tackle and they both felt that pull. This story is full suspense & fire action.What do I mean by this I hear you ask there is a Arsonist that is attack their Station 22.Together they have to catch him or her
Luke is 3rd generation of firefighters. He is recovering from a fire incident of one of his best friend & his sister husband.You can feel his anger and grief of losing is best friend & brother in law
Ella is a firefighter too BUT she a dark secret that relates to her father. However I love her determination to show that she is nothing like him and prove she is not
They are both part of AI Team that basically look at a fire incident &investigate into it. They are now searching for the Arsonists targetting Firefighter Station 22 and trying to keep the everyone safe. This is more than a love story there is a killer to be found & stopped!!
No spoilers on that but get ready and make notes!!
MY FAVOURITE scene is when they release that she is the new tenant and how he found out it was funny and interesting. Let's just says ladies loves bubble baths and hate beginning disturb. All thou I wouldn't mind Greek god Luke coming into my bathroom 🧼 🥰
☆MUST READ &FAV☆
Luke is 3rd generation of firefighters. He is recovering from a fire incident of one of his best friend & his sister husband.You can feel his anger and grief of losing is best friend & brother in law
Ella is a firefighter too BUT she a dark secret that relates to her father. However I love her determination to show that she is nothing like him and prove she is not
They are both part of AI Team that basically look at a fire incident &investigate into it. They are now searching for the Arsonists targetting Firefighter Station 22 and trying to keep the everyone safe. This is more than a love story there is a killer to be found & stopped!!
No spoilers on that but get ready and make notes!!
MY FAVOURITE scene is when they release that she is the new tenant and how he found out it was funny and interesting. Let's just says ladies loves bubble baths and hate beginning disturb. All thou I wouldn't mind Greek god Luke coming into my bathroom 🧼 🥰
☆MUST READ &FAV☆
July 27, 2021
Flash by Misha Blake @authormishablake
Genre: Romance, Fiction
Rating: 4.8/5
Review:
This is the first book of the Badges of the Capital Series.
Lucas 'Flash' Walker is cocky, arrogant and hotter than the fire he battles everyday. His life turned upside down in the worst way when he almost lost his brother in law in a fire but also in the best way possible when Ella Mathews entered his life, his dreams and thoughts.
The story is romantic, dreamy, a little emotional, with suspense, drama, angst and steam. It is a little slow burn at first but the characters will keep the readers engrossed with their sizzling chemistry. Both the characters fight their own sets of issues which they overcome with the help of each other. The story is action packed with a fierce female protagonist who will be loved by its readers. A highly recommended book for readers who like this genre.
Personal Take:
This book had everything that a reader like me looks for in a story. There was never a dull moment. Not to forget the jaw dropping twists which were completely unexpected. I loved how strong Ella (FC) was, till the end. Both the characters were just perfect for each other and the end had me beaming. I can't wait for this author's next book. 💖
This is a review against the ARC provided.
Genre: Romance, Fiction
Rating: 4.8/5
Review:
This is the first book of the Badges of the Capital Series.
Lucas 'Flash' Walker is cocky, arrogant and hotter than the fire he battles everyday. His life turned upside down in the worst way when he almost lost his brother in law in a fire but also in the best way possible when Ella Mathews entered his life, his dreams and thoughts.
The story is romantic, dreamy, a little emotional, with suspense, drama, angst and steam. It is a little slow burn at first but the characters will keep the readers engrossed with their sizzling chemistry. Both the characters fight their own sets of issues which they overcome with the help of each other. The story is action packed with a fierce female protagonist who will be loved by its readers. A highly recommended book for readers who like this genre.
Personal Take:
This book had everything that a reader like me looks for in a story. There was never a dull moment. Not to forget the jaw dropping twists which were completely unexpected. I loved how strong Ella (FC) was, till the end. Both the characters were just perfect for each other and the end had me beaming. I can't wait for this author's next book. 💖
This is a review against the ARC provided.
September 16, 2021
4.5 stars
Flash is the first book in the Badges of the Capital series and it tells the story of Ella Matthews and Luke Walker, two firefighters which have met during a nefarious event. There is an arsonist in town, will they be able to catch him or he will get them?
The connection between Ella and Luke was instant, and event though everything happened quite fast between them, their feelings were genuine. They were open to each other, not very shy to admit things or do things, if you know what I mean, their chemistry was off the charts. Ella was a feisty woman, not afraid to speak her mind at all and Luke was such a sweet guy, always taking care of Ella, he was attracted by her attitude.
The plot was interesting, constructed around the firefighters live, there were secrets, twists and suspense, there were a lot of characters, which made the story quite complex and full of life, not a second spent being bored, but this is the author's style and I liked it, it is a fresh read.
If you like romantic suspense, with a pinch of steamy encounters, with some secrets and twists, then this is for you. I look forward to read Mason and Ensley's story.
Flash is the first book in the Badges of the Capital series and it tells the story of Ella Matthews and Luke Walker, two firefighters which have met during a nefarious event. There is an arsonist in town, will they be able to catch him or he will get them?
The connection between Ella and Luke was instant, and event though everything happened quite fast between them, their feelings were genuine. They were open to each other, not very shy to admit things or do things, if you know what I mean, their chemistry was off the charts. Ella was a feisty woman, not afraid to speak her mind at all and Luke was such a sweet guy, always taking care of Ella, he was attracted by her attitude.
The plot was interesting, constructed around the firefighters live, there were secrets, twists and suspense, there were a lot of characters, which made the story quite complex and full of life, not a second spent being bored, but this is the author's style and I liked it, it is a fresh read.
If you like romantic suspense, with a pinch of steamy encounters, with some secrets and twists, then this is for you. I look forward to read Mason and Ensley's story.
August 6, 2021
Has Luke “Flash” Walker been added to my book boyfriends. Too right he has! But Ella Matthew’s has bulldozed her way into my favourite heroines.
The fierce passion these two have, blows my mind. I love every single thing about it.
The fierce passion these two have, blows my mind. I love every single thing about it.
November 3, 2022
Excellent read with plenty of suspense, who done it, danger and heat of the good kind. Ella's father is in prison for something he didn't do, but Ella doesn't know that. She's a firefighter, putting out fires someone is starting on purpose. Luke is a firefighter also, but in a different house. But when a tragedy happens, he's transferred to fire investigator to get his anger issues under control. HEA.
Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews