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Hometown Heat #3
Playing with Fire
Thou shalt not bang your best friend. That commandment would be a lot easier if Maddie wasn’t the sexiest siren ever to wade into a tide pool. Or if I was good at resisting temptation.
I’m the troublemaker, the firefighter who enjoys getting a little too close to the flames. And the trouble is double, since Maddie’s sister is about to marry my brother. That makes a tryst even riskier.
But it’s cool—we’ll keep our bang-a-palooza a secret from our siblings and keep things casual, so no one gets hurt.
The problem? Nothing about this thing with Maddie feels casual.
From the electricity between us to the way my heart flips when she smiles—everything I feel for her is intense.
But can we handle the heat when my past—and hers—suddenly come back to haunt us…
*Playing with Fire was previously published as The Bad Boy Firefighter's Secret Fling by Jessie Evans. It has been rewritten in first person and extensively revised for this new edition*
I’m the troublemaker, the firefighter who enjoys getting a little too close to the flames. And the trouble is double, since Maddie’s sister is about to marry my brother. That makes a tryst even riskier.
But it’s cool—we’ll keep our bang-a-palooza a secret from our siblings and keep things casual, so no one gets hurt.
The problem? Nothing about this thing with Maddie feels casual.
From the electricity between us to the way my heart flips when she smiles—everything I feel for her is intense.
But can we handle the heat when my past—and hers—suddenly come back to haunt us…
*Playing with Fire was previously published as The Bad Boy Firefighter's Secret Fling by Jessie Evans. It has been rewritten in first person and extensively revised for this new edition*
183 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 27, 2021
37 people are currently reading
255 people want to read
About the author
Lili Valente
151 books4,082 followersVisit Lili at www.lilivalente.com
Author of over forty novels, USA Today Bestseller Lili Valente writes everything from steamy suspense to laugh-out-loud romantic comedies. She can't resist a story where love wins big. Because love should always win. She lives in Vermont with her two big-hearted boy children and a dog named Pippa Jane.
*Lili rarely visits this site as it is a site intended for readers, not authors. If you have questions, the best way to reach Lili is through her website contact form. Happy reading!
Author of over forty novels, USA Today Bestseller Lili Valente writes everything from steamy suspense to laugh-out-loud romantic comedies. She can't resist a story where love wins big. Because love should always win. She lives in Vermont with her two big-hearted boy children and a dog named Pippa Jane.
*Lili rarely visits this site as it is a site intended for readers, not authors. If you have questions, the best way to reach Lili is through her website contact form. Happy reading!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
February 2, 2022
Eher schwächer
August 28, 2021
I thought I loved Mick from the previous book, but Jamison completely stole my heart. I love him so much. I hated the way everyone judged him (even if he had the reputation he did). Cut the guy a break. It’s not like he is the only person in Bliss River to have ever made a mistake or two.
Playing with Fire is definitely my favorite out of the three books in this series. I loved Jamison and Maddie’s relationship. Their chemistry was insane and the passion between them was so hot. I love how open they were with each other and their willingness to be honest and express their feelings without holding back.
Lili Valente and Teddy Hamilton have once again amazed me. Their talent is unmeasurable. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, they do such a phenomenal job with their narration that I am immediately consumed in the characters they are portraying. Each time I listen to a book narrated by either of them, the experience is always different. Their ability to give every character they narrate their individual voice and personality is impressive and amazing. Lili and Teddy were perfect as Maddie and Jamison.
Maddie and Jamison had a lot to lose if their relationship didn’t work. Not only were they childhood friends, but Maddie’s sister was marrying Jamison’s brother and they were also both going to baptize their niece. So I completely understood their reservations, but those two couldn’t stand in their own way. They were perfect for each other.
Not only did I love Jamison and Maddie, but I am obsessed with the Bliss River “girl gang” and Maddie’s other friends. Every girl needs a group of friends like this. I also love the growing relationship between Jamison and Mick, as well as Naomi and Jamison’s interaction as they work towards their relationship. Now Jake, I’m still mad at him (not really) but he really made me angry in this book.
I think there are still a few stories brewing in Bliss River and I truly hope we can get to come back to this small town filled with some of the most wonderful characters that I have fallen in love with.
Playing with Fire is definitely my favorite out of the three books in this series. I loved Jamison and Maddie’s relationship. Their chemistry was insane and the passion between them was so hot. I love how open they were with each other and their willingness to be honest and express their feelings without holding back.
Lili Valente and Teddy Hamilton have once again amazed me. Their talent is unmeasurable. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, they do such a phenomenal job with their narration that I am immediately consumed in the characters they are portraying. Each time I listen to a book narrated by either of them, the experience is always different. Their ability to give every character they narrate their individual voice and personality is impressive and amazing. Lili and Teddy were perfect as Maddie and Jamison.
Maddie and Jamison had a lot to lose if their relationship didn’t work. Not only were they childhood friends, but Maddie’s sister was marrying Jamison’s brother and they were also both going to baptize their niece. So I completely understood their reservations, but those two couldn’t stand in their own way. They were perfect for each other.
Not only did I love Jamison and Maddie, but I am obsessed with the Bliss River “girl gang” and Maddie’s other friends. Every girl needs a group of friends like this. I also love the growing relationship between Jamison and Mick, as well as Naomi and Jamison’s interaction as they work towards their relationship. Now Jake, I’m still mad at him (not really) but he really made me angry in this book.
I think there are still a few stories brewing in Bliss River and I truly hope we can get to come back to this small town filled with some of the most wonderful characters that I have fallen in love with.
August 24, 2021
**My thanks to the author for providing me with a free copy for an honest review**
I have been waiting to read this book since we met Jamison in the very first book of the series.
Maddie is covering her hurt over the betrayal of her husband, a husband who stayed with her until he was strong enough to tell her that he was gay and left her for a man he had fallen in love with.
When they nearly kiss in the bakery that she shares, things for both Maddie and Jamison as they then cannot get each other out from their lustful thoughts. When finding out that they are at the same singles holiday at the beach, things take a major turn then Maddie drinks Whiskey, a drink that gets her wild side out and she goes skinny dipping in front of Jamison.
One night together and they both know that nothing will be the same again between them. Not only have they opened pandora's box, but they both know that one night will NEVER be enough.
Both fall hard and fast, but as with most stories, something happens to shake their happiness and they have to work through their feelings and decide if their love and happiness is worth fighting for.
I really enjoyed this book and managed to read it in just one sitting.
I have been waiting to read this book since we met Jamison in the very first book of the series.
Maddie is covering her hurt over the betrayal of her husband, a husband who stayed with her until he was strong enough to tell her that he was gay and left her for a man he had fallen in love with.
When they nearly kiss in the bakery that she shares, things for both Maddie and Jamison as they then cannot get each other out from their lustful thoughts. When finding out that they are at the same singles holiday at the beach, things take a major turn then Maddie drinks Whiskey, a drink that gets her wild side out and she goes skinny dipping in front of Jamison.
One night together and they both know that nothing will be the same again between them. Not only have they opened pandora's box, but they both know that one night will NEVER be enough.
Both fall hard and fast, but as with most stories, something happens to shake their happiness and they have to work through their feelings and decide if their love and happiness is worth fighting for.
I really enjoyed this book and managed to read it in just one sitting.
August 26, 2021
Maddie and Jamison are hands down my favorite couple of this series. It’s been fun and interesting to see them start off as just supporting characters in their siblings’ stories to being the featured duo. Even though the books are all set within a relatively short time span, from book one to three, Maddie and Jamison have grown as individuals throughout that period.
Their relatively low-angst relationship begins with a funny and sexy whiskey-infused skinny dipping session and immediately blossoms into these lifelong friends dating…but on the sly, as not to upstage their sibling’s upcoming wedding. Maddie is the one who’s more cautious about it, which I love, as often it’s the male lead who wants to keep it a secret. But for Jamison, that shift from friends only to lovers is something to celebrate, not hide, and he’s all in.
But even easy-breezy relationships can hit a snag or two, but it’s nothing that these two people, who’ve loved each other for years, in a different context, can’t work out. Every conversation in this book feels real…like the reader is overhearing the couple next door, the sisters in the coffee shop or the co-workers who hang out when the day is done.
Lili Valente excels in bring honesty and authenticity to character reactions and emotions in all her stories. Her books entertain and delight and she has become a one-click author for this very happy reader!
Their relatively low-angst relationship begins with a funny and sexy whiskey-infused skinny dipping session and immediately blossoms into these lifelong friends dating…but on the sly, as not to upstage their sibling’s upcoming wedding. Maddie is the one who’s more cautious about it, which I love, as often it’s the male lead who wants to keep it a secret. But for Jamison, that shift from friends only to lovers is something to celebrate, not hide, and he’s all in.
But even easy-breezy relationships can hit a snag or two, but it’s nothing that these two people, who’ve loved each other for years, in a different context, can’t work out. Every conversation in this book feels real…like the reader is overhearing the couple next door, the sisters in the coffee shop or the co-workers who hang out when the day is done.
Lili Valente excels in bring honesty and authenticity to character reactions and emotions in all her stories. Her books entertain and delight and she has become a one-click author for this very happy reader!
August 19, 2024
This felt like more than just a small town romance. Maddie and Jamison have so much history with each other and their families that it just felt like they should be together. But things are always that simple. Luckily, Lili Valente knows how to write a good HEA :)
October 31, 2021
This is the last book in Valente's Hometown Heat series a spinoff of her Bliss River series. In this book middle Whitehouse sibling Maddie finally finds love with her childhood friend Jamieson. This is contemporary romance just the way I like it. It's romantic, its very sexy and there's just enough angst to keep it interesting. Definitely not nearly the amount of angst contained in her sister Naomi and Jameson's older brother Jake's book. Maddie is the consummate good girl until she gets a little whiskey in her and she lets her wild side out. Jake is the consummate no strings bad boy until he almost kisses his life long friend Maddie at the close of Naomi and Jake's book. Since then he can't get the girl her grew up with out of his head. When they both end up at a singles retreat weekend at Myrtle Beach and Maddie embolden by a few JDs and Coke sedher uces Jamison it leads to more than a one night multiple orgasm stand. But Maddie hasn't dealt with the emotional baggage from her failed marriage to Serge and Jameson has a past indiscretion that catches up with him both threatening to derail their happily ever after.
Being the final story in this 3 book series Valente thankfully gives a strong presence to the other two Whitehouse siblings and their significant others as well as some supporting characters I suspect will get their own books. I know her BFF Dawn does if I can just find it on Amazon.
I only had two minor problems with this series. The first is Aria who is the bridge between this series and the Bliss River series as Maddie's friend who happened to go to the same Paris pastry school as Maddie at the same time and is now a silent partner in her and her sister's bakery Icings. I can't think of any other reason for her to be in this series. Aria may be a pastry chef but the only time we see her at Icings is when they're preparing to open the bakery and she lends her artistic talent to decorating the shop. Seeing as Naomi is a very wealthy former television chef who runs a multi-million dollar cookware company they certainly didn't need Aria as an investor. Naomi could buy up all of Bliss River if she wanted to. And then there's the fact that Naomi who is supposed to be a world famous chef never does any baking herself. She works the counter at Icings waiting on customers but that's about it for her involvement in the business. Maybe she just partnered with Melody so her sister could live her lifelong dream of opening her own bakery? But don't let my minor issues with the series bother you. It's a great series and this book was a great way to bring it to a close.
Being the final story in this 3 book series Valente thankfully gives a strong presence to the other two Whitehouse siblings and their significant others as well as some supporting characters I suspect will get their own books. I know her BFF Dawn does if I can just find it on Amazon.
I only had two minor problems with this series. The first is Aria who is the bridge between this series and the Bliss River series as Maddie's friend who happened to go to the same Paris pastry school as Maddie at the same time and is now a silent partner in her and her sister's bakery Icings. I can't think of any other reason for her to be in this series. Aria may be a pastry chef but the only time we see her at Icings is when they're preparing to open the bakery and she lends her artistic talent to decorating the shop. Seeing as Naomi is a very wealthy former television chef who runs a multi-million dollar cookware company they certainly didn't need Aria as an investor. Naomi could buy up all of Bliss River if she wanted to. And then there's the fact that Naomi who is supposed to be a world famous chef never does any baking herself. She works the counter at Icings waiting on customers but that's about it for her involvement in the business. Maybe she just partnered with Melody so her sister could live her lifelong dream of opening her own bakery? But don't let my minor issues with the series bother you. It's a great series and this book was a great way to bring it to a close.
December 27, 2024
Audiobook.
Teddy Hamilton and Lili Valente narrating this was *chefs kiss* This lady has the best narrators for her books and not to mention herself, she's amazing.
Jamison and Maddie were beautiful. She is his future sister in law and childhood friend. It's pretty obvious that they've always had a thing for each other but never acted on it. She was married and he was a player. But then she was divorced and wanted some fun and he gave the FUN😉 she wanted ans yearned for. That one night changed EVERYTHING! He fell for her and wanted more than hooking up. So they agreed to keep it a secret until after the christening of their niece and the siblings wedding. And everything was going great along with some minor doubtful times until things got really bad.
Jamison made a HUGE mistake at one point in his life and it came back and bit him in his ass and because of that everything went left. When it was revealed, his brother wanted nothing to do with him and Maddie ran away. Long story short, she heard from her sister that Jamison's brother didnt want him in the wedding party, she found his brother on the wedding day and defended him, he heard everything, they talked it out and he proposed. It was already planned so it wasnt out of pocket, it was the perfect time for it to happen.
Overall I give this book a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5. It was just well written and so perfect. Maddie and Jamison are perfect together. They've been hurt and betrayed in relationships so it made sense why they hid things and why they held back but in the end they found their way back to each other. And these two had chemistry, these two were 🥵🥵🥵🥵🥵🥵🥵! You won't be disappointed with both romance and spice.
This was an incredible read via audiobook once again from Lili Valente and I've started the other books in the series and trust when I say it will be just as incredible. 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Teddy Hamilton and Lili Valente narrating this was *chefs kiss* This lady has the best narrators for her books and not to mention herself, she's amazing.
Jamison and Maddie were beautiful. She is his future sister in law and childhood friend. It's pretty obvious that they've always had a thing for each other but never acted on it. She was married and he was a player. But then she was divorced and wanted some fun and he gave the FUN😉 she wanted ans yearned for. That one night changed EVERYTHING! He fell for her and wanted more than hooking up. So they agreed to keep it a secret until after the christening of their niece and the siblings wedding. And everything was going great along with some minor doubtful times until things got really bad.
Jamison made a HUGE mistake at one point in his life and it came back and bit him in his ass and because of that everything went left. When it was revealed, his brother wanted nothing to do with him and Maddie ran away. Long story short, she heard from her sister that Jamison's brother didnt want him in the wedding party, she found his brother on the wedding day and defended him, he heard everything, they talked it out and he proposed. It was already planned so it wasnt out of pocket, it was the perfect time for it to happen.
Overall I give this book a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5. It was just well written and so perfect. Maddie and Jamison are perfect together. They've been hurt and betrayed in relationships so it made sense why they hid things and why they held back but in the end they found their way back to each other. And these two had chemistry, these two were 🥵🥵🥵🥵🥵🥵🥵! You won't be disappointed with both romance and spice.
This was an incredible read via audiobook once again from Lili Valente and I've started the other books in the series and trust when I say it will be just as incredible. 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 22, 2021
“What happened between us isn’t the kind of thing you walk away from, and you know it.”
I loved, loved, LOVED Maddie and Jamison’s story. It was perfection. This friends to lovers story features two friends that suddenly start to see each other in a new way and it will captivate you from the first page. I didn’t want their story to end.
“For the first time in my life, I feel like someone loves every part of me.”
The banter between Maddie and Jamison is laugh out loud and electric and the chemistry is HOT! They light the pages on fire with their heat.
“I’ve loved you since I was a kid. Sure, it was a different kind of love back then, but a part of me always knew you were special.”
I loved watching them figure out their relationship and how they truly made each other stronger. They stood up for each other and worked on their issues together. Their friendship made the foundation of their love that much stronger.
I alternated between the audio and the ebook of this story and I lost myself in Lili Valente’s and Teddy Hamilton’s narrations. I always love listening to Lili narrate her stories. She brings so much personality to the characters. Teddy truly brought Jamison to life and I love listening to his voice. Both of them evoked the humor, heat, and emotion of the story and brought it to life.
Playing with Fire is my absolute favorite book by Lili Valente and I definitely recommend it if you are looking for a fun, steamy, and emotional romance that is full of heart.
I loved, loved, LOVED Maddie and Jamison’s story. It was perfection. This friends to lovers story features two friends that suddenly start to see each other in a new way and it will captivate you from the first page. I didn’t want their story to end.
“For the first time in my life, I feel like someone loves every part of me.”
The banter between Maddie and Jamison is laugh out loud and electric and the chemistry is HOT! They light the pages on fire with their heat.
“I’ve loved you since I was a kid. Sure, it was a different kind of love back then, but a part of me always knew you were special.”
I loved watching them figure out their relationship and how they truly made each other stronger. They stood up for each other and worked on their issues together. Their friendship made the foundation of their love that much stronger.
I alternated between the audio and the ebook of this story and I lost myself in Lili Valente’s and Teddy Hamilton’s narrations. I always love listening to Lili narrate her stories. She brings so much personality to the characters. Teddy truly brought Jamison to life and I love listening to his voice. Both of them evoked the humor, heat, and emotion of the story and brought it to life.
Playing with Fire is my absolute favorite book by Lili Valente and I definitely recommend it if you are looking for a fun, steamy, and emotional romance that is full of heart.
August 27, 2021
“𝐈 𝐥𝐨𝐯𝐞 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐬𝐨 𝐦𝐮𝐜𝐡 𝐢𝐭 𝐡𝐮𝐫𝐭𝐬.”
“𝐁𝐮𝐭 𝐧𝐨𝐭 𝐢𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐛𝐚𝐝 𝐰𝐚𝐲, 𝐫𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭?”
“𝐍𝐨. 𝐈𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐛𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐰𝐚𝐲. 𝐈𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐰𝐚𝐲 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐦𝐚𝐤𝐞𝐬 𝐦𝐞 𝐤𝐧𝐨𝐰 𝐈’𝐦 𝐟𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐲 𝐝𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐢𝐭 𝐫𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐈 𝐝𝐨𝐧’𝐭 𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐰𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐩.”
🔥
Let’s talk about “Playing With Fire by Lili Valente”, third book in the Hometown Heat series.
🚒
I think I’ve said it before, the Whitehouse siblings had the worst luck with their past relationships, I mean, it was bad. But now with Maddie story, they all left the bad in the past and nailed their own firefighter. And it was so deserving and amazing.
Actually Maddie kind of surprised me, in a wonderful way, in the previous books she seemed shy and closed off, but give a girl some whisky shots and it’s balls to the walls! The girl goes after what she wants and what she wanted was one night with her hot best friend Jamison. That she had, but he didn’t want one night, he finally wanted forever, with her.
Let me tell you those two? The were perfect, I was so jealous and kind of wanted their relationship for me, seriously if Jamison was real and available I’d be there! They brought the best of each other. While he gave her confidence, love and trust at every turn, she was able to calm his heart, making him realize the she was all he wanted and needed.
I think this was the steamiest book I’ve read from Lili, I mean, right from the beginning and I loved it. She also surprised me with the twist, it wasn’t what I was expecting at all and they finally had to deal with their pasts so they could move on together. This series is so amazing and each book I’ve devoured! I’ll honestly miss them all.
“𝐁𝐮𝐭 𝐧𝐨𝐭 𝐢𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐛𝐚𝐝 𝐰𝐚𝐲, 𝐫𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭?”
“𝐍𝐨. 𝐈𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐛𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐰𝐚𝐲. 𝐈𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐰𝐚𝐲 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐦𝐚𝐤𝐞𝐬 𝐦𝐞 𝐤𝐧𝐨𝐰 𝐈’𝐦 𝐟𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐲 𝐝𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐢𝐭 𝐫𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐈 𝐝𝐨𝐧’𝐭 𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐰𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐩.”
🔥
Let’s talk about “Playing With Fire by Lili Valente”, third book in the Hometown Heat series.
🚒
I think I’ve said it before, the Whitehouse siblings had the worst luck with their past relationships, I mean, it was bad. But now with Maddie story, they all left the bad in the past and nailed their own firefighter. And it was so deserving and amazing.
Actually Maddie kind of surprised me, in a wonderful way, in the previous books she seemed shy and closed off, but give a girl some whisky shots and it’s balls to the walls! The girl goes after what she wants and what she wanted was one night with her hot best friend Jamison. That she had, but he didn’t want one night, he finally wanted forever, with her.
Let me tell you those two? The were perfect, I was so jealous and kind of wanted their relationship for me, seriously if Jamison was real and available I’d be there! They brought the best of each other. While he gave her confidence, love and trust at every turn, she was able to calm his heart, making him realize the she was all he wanted and needed.
I think this was the steamiest book I’ve read from Lili, I mean, right from the beginning and I loved it. She also surprised me with the twist, it wasn’t what I was expecting at all and they finally had to deal with their pasts so they could move on together. This series is so amazing and each book I’ve devoured! I’ll honestly miss them all.
August 20, 2021
Playing with Fire is a fun, hot and sexy addition to Lili Valente’s Hometown Heat series. We met Maddie and Jamison in the first two books of this series, and finally they get a book of their own.
Maddie and Jamison have known each other since they were children and have been friends for as long as they can remember. When they unexpectedly bump into each other on a weekend getaway, with the help of some shots of whiskey, Jamison and Maddie can’t deny the attraction they share which leads to a hot passionate night spent in each other’s arms. When the morning comes, they both admit they’d like to see more of each other. They both agree to keep their relationship a secret for the time being, but the more time they spend together, the deeper and stronger their love grows. But when the past rears its head, is Jamison and Maddie’s love strong enough to survive the unfortunate mistake that comes to light and surrender to the love they feel with one another?
Playing with Fire is a perfectly written romance. It has just the right amount of sexy and steamy moments, a tiny bit of angst and lots of fun and entertaining moments. This is a beautifully written love story that made my heart swoon. I love Maddie and Jamison’s story.
Playing with Fire is part of Lili Valente’s Hometown Heat series but can definitely be read as a stand-alone.
Maddie and Jamison have known each other since they were children and have been friends for as long as they can remember. When they unexpectedly bump into each other on a weekend getaway, with the help of some shots of whiskey, Jamison and Maddie can’t deny the attraction they share which leads to a hot passionate night spent in each other’s arms. When the morning comes, they both admit they’d like to see more of each other. They both agree to keep their relationship a secret for the time being, but the more time they spend together, the deeper and stronger their love grows. But when the past rears its head, is Jamison and Maddie’s love strong enough to survive the unfortunate mistake that comes to light and surrender to the love they feel with one another?
Playing with Fire is a perfectly written romance. It has just the right amount of sexy and steamy moments, a tiny bit of angst and lots of fun and entertaining moments. This is a beautifully written love story that made my heart swoon. I love Maddie and Jamison’s story.
Playing with Fire is part of Lili Valente’s Hometown Heat series but can definitely be read as a stand-alone.
August 13, 2021
What a spicy delight this story was. I loved the first two and this one was no different. The story starts off with so much heat and keeps going though the whole story.
Maddie and Jamison have known each other their whole lives. When they end up at the same weekend getaway retreat, Maddie is instantly annoyed. After a tough divorce, she just wants to let loose and not be around anyone she knows. But thanks to whisky, the weekend turns out differently. The two have an attraction to each other and it’s getting harder for them to deny it.
This story was super spicy and I loved it. Maddie and Jamison are super hot together. Jamison was a nice surprise. He gives off this bad boy firefighter vibe but is a total romantic. I love how smitten he was with Maddie. And his dirty talking is A+. Maddie is a sweetheart who loves her family and friends and was a surprise too. I love her wildside. The “Hometown Heat” series has been a delight to read.
I was lucky enough to listen to this as an audiobook. Narrated by Lili Valente and Teddy Hamilton. One of my favorite things about Lili’s book is that she narrates her own stories. That adds a special experience to the story. Teddy does a wonderful job narrating a spicy firefighter.
Maddie and Jamison have known each other their whole lives. When they end up at the same weekend getaway retreat, Maddie is instantly annoyed. After a tough divorce, she just wants to let loose and not be around anyone she knows. But thanks to whisky, the weekend turns out differently. The two have an attraction to each other and it’s getting harder for them to deny it.
This story was super spicy and I loved it. Maddie and Jamison are super hot together. Jamison was a nice surprise. He gives off this bad boy firefighter vibe but is a total romantic. I love how smitten he was with Maddie. And his dirty talking is A+. Maddie is a sweetheart who loves her family and friends and was a surprise too. I love her wildside. The “Hometown Heat” series has been a delight to read.
I was lucky enough to listen to this as an audiobook. Narrated by Lili Valente and Teddy Hamilton. One of my favorite things about Lili’s book is that she narrates her own stories. That adds a special experience to the story. Teddy does a wonderful job narrating a spicy firefighter.
August 27, 2021
Playing with Fire
I thoroughly enjoyed my third trip into Bliss River. While this is a book 3 in the series , it can be absolutely read as a standalone.
Maddie is kicking off her birthday month celebration with a girl’s trio to a singles camping weekend. She is nursing a broken heart post divorce where her ex-husband confessed to being gay after 6 years of marriage.
To her dismay, the first guy Maddie runs into as they arrive at the camp, is her lifelong friend Jamison, soon to be her sister’s brother in law. They agree to try to stay as far away from each other as possible, so they can enjoy themselves and possibly find a connection with another participant of the singles’ retreat. But that becomes impossible when they run into each other again at night at the beach; and after a fun, whisky induced skinny dipping adventure they become more than friends.
Returning back home they try to keep their newly found attraction to each other on the down low as to not interfere with Maddie’s sister and Jamison’s brother upcoming wedding.
This book has it all - love, humor, swoon, romance as well as some steam and I truly enjoyed it.
I definitely recommend Playing with Fire to all romcom enthusiasts!
I thoroughly enjoyed my third trip into Bliss River. While this is a book 3 in the series , it can be absolutely read as a standalone.
Maddie is kicking off her birthday month celebration with a girl’s trio to a singles camping weekend. She is nursing a broken heart post divorce where her ex-husband confessed to being gay after 6 years of marriage.
To her dismay, the first guy Maddie runs into as they arrive at the camp, is her lifelong friend Jamison, soon to be her sister’s brother in law. They agree to try to stay as far away from each other as possible, so they can enjoy themselves and possibly find a connection with another participant of the singles’ retreat. But that becomes impossible when they run into each other again at night at the beach; and after a fun, whisky induced skinny dipping adventure they become more than friends.
Returning back home they try to keep their newly found attraction to each other on the down low as to not interfere with Maddie’s sister and Jamison’s brother upcoming wedding.
This book has it all - love, humor, swoon, romance as well as some steam and I truly enjoyed it.
I definitely recommend Playing with Fire to all romcom enthusiasts!
January 3, 2025
"I've never cheated on anyone I was in a serious relationship with"
What. The. Hell.
So it's clearly ok to cheat if you're not serious?????
Did the women know this going into it?
And yet he slept with a married woman.
"I respect you so much, Art"
*sleeps with his wife anyways
Do I not like Lili as an author? Cause these three in this series were all 1 star.
I like a MCs that are morally good.
No moral compass. Cheaters, people who are ok hurting another, are morally despicable. "I'm not the person I was a year ago". You're the same person. Just didn't like how others reacted to your actions.
"I made one mistake"
You slept with someones spouse who you claimed to have cared for.
Dawn defending him is shit. It really does take two to tango, regardless of the fact SHE was the only one married; he knew she was married the entire time!!!!!!!
People don't just change. Morals don't change ever.
As soon as I read he cheated I was done. When Dawn tried pushing him on her - pure manipulation - without her FMC would have truly been logical. I was DONE at this.
Removed Lili from my authors list.
What. The. Hell.
So it's clearly ok to cheat if you're not serious?????
Did the women know this going into it?
And yet he slept with a married woman.
"I respect you so much, Art"
*sleeps with his wife anyways
Do I not like Lili as an author? Cause these three in this series were all 1 star.
I like a MCs that are morally good.
No moral compass. Cheaters, people who are ok hurting another, are morally despicable. "I'm not the person I was a year ago". You're the same person. Just didn't like how others reacted to your actions.
"I made one mistake"
You slept with someones spouse who you claimed to have cared for.
Dawn defending him is shit. It really does take two to tango, regardless of the fact SHE was the only one married; he knew she was married the entire time!!!!!!!
People don't just change. Morals don't change ever.
As soon as I read he cheated I was done. When Dawn tried pushing him on her - pure manipulation - without her FMC would have truly been logical. I was DONE at this.
Removed Lili from my authors list.
August 17, 2021
Maddie Whitehouse and Jamison Hansen have known each other their entire lives. Maddie's sister is marrying Jamison's brother. Maddie is still nursing her wounds after a difficult divorce and Jamison is still wary of relationships after his last did a number on him. They’re friends. They make great friends, and that's it.
Everything changes on an overnight camping trip at the beach involving too much whiskey and too few swimming clothes. But maybe when they get back to their regularly scheduled lives, they can keep this attraction on the down-low, so as not to take away from the upcoming wedding. What could possibly go wrong?
This clever, witty storyteller never fails to tickle my funny bone, make me blush and give my heart an emotional workout. I love this series, but I especially love Maddie and Jamison. Their story is laugh-out-loud hilarious but low angst and heartfelt, and you'll love every minute of your escape to Bliss River with them, so run to the 1-Click and start this one today!
Everything changes on an overnight camping trip at the beach involving too much whiskey and too few swimming clothes. But maybe when they get back to their regularly scheduled lives, they can keep this attraction on the down-low, so as not to take away from the upcoming wedding. What could possibly go wrong?
This clever, witty storyteller never fails to tickle my funny bone, make me blush and give my heart an emotional workout. I love this series, but I especially love Maddie and Jamison. Their story is laugh-out-loud hilarious but low angst and heartfelt, and you'll love every minute of your escape to Bliss River with them, so run to the 1-Click and start this one today!
August 30, 2021
This is the third book in the series and it was a good one. I really liked Maddie and Jamison. I wasn't so sure of him at first with some of things I've gotten to know about him in the previous books, but I shouldn't have worried. That man has matured and grown since moving back to Bliss River. I must say I'm a big fan of the man he has become. He's so worthy of a HEA and he has his sights on Maddie. They are really good friends and that's one of my favorite tropes friends to lovers. Maddie is the last Whitehouse sibling to fall. Maddie is getting over the betrayal from her previous relationship so Jamison has to read carefully. Things get a little complicated keeping their relationship a secret. Jamison has some swoon worthy moves and can bring the romance. Poor Maddie doesn't stand a chance. To me she is one lucky lady. This was delightful steamy small town read. It had me hooked right from the beginning. I loved seeing the previous couples in their HEAs. Also seeing some my other Bliss River favorites adding to their family. Made me squeal in excitement along with the characters.
August 30, 2021
Jamison and Maddie have been friends since they were very young. Their families are very close (Jamison's brother Jake is marrying Maddie's sister Naomi), and there's never been any awkward moments between them until that kiss. Both have been thinking about it quite a lot, but neither has acknowledged it. Until a camping trip and some whiskey loosen their lips. They decide to explore the chemistry between them...in secret. Since their siblings' wedding is coming up soon, they don't want to distract from the festivities, and their fling will likely fizzle out by then, anyway. Until both start to have feelings that can't be ignored.
This was such a cute story. Jamison brings out Maddie's wilder side, and he's not the selfish arrogant firefighter he's known to be. There are a few unexpected twists, and plenty of heat between these two, and a trip to a place those familiar with Lili's other books will definitely enjoy.
I love this series! Lili and Teddy's narration is so great!
This was such a cute story. Jamison brings out Maddie's wilder side, and he's not the selfish arrogant firefighter he's known to be. There are a few unexpected twists, and plenty of heat between these two, and a trip to a place those familiar with Lili's other books will definitely enjoy.
I love this series! Lili and Teddy's narration is so great!
August 21, 2021
I love the first line in this book on the "About the Book" page....Thou shalt not bang your best friend! LOL I knew then, that I was going to be reading and nothing else until this book was finished! What a story it was!
Maddie and her friends are off to a "month of Maddie" at Myrtle Beach to celebrate her birthday. She's pumped about it until she steps out of Piper's van at the resort and sees none other than Jamison Hanson! This trip just took a turn for the worst for her. She was looking forward to this after her marriage failed! After six years because her husband decided he liked men more than her. Jamison has just complicated everything.
Jamison and Maddie have been friends for a very long time. She's always been like a little sister to him and he's also a horndog. What could possibly go wrong when lines are crossed with a little alcohol mixed in?
Wonderful story and very entertaining! I loved Maddie and Jamison and the chemistry they had!
Maddie and her friends are off to a "month of Maddie" at Myrtle Beach to celebrate her birthday. She's pumped about it until she steps out of Piper's van at the resort and sees none other than Jamison Hanson! This trip just took a turn for the worst for her. She was looking forward to this after her marriage failed! After six years because her husband decided he liked men more than her. Jamison has just complicated everything.
Jamison and Maddie have been friends for a very long time. She's always been like a little sister to him and he's also a horndog. What could possibly go wrong when lines are crossed with a little alcohol mixed in?
Wonderful story and very entertaining! I loved Maddie and Jamison and the chemistry they had!
August 25, 2021
My fave couple of the siblings.
I was pleasantly surprised that I fell for Jamison so much. He is quite the player in the other books, but the way Maddie settles him is SWOON!! And Maddie is my fave of the sibling trio. She is strong, yet scarred very understandably so. You will enjoy this book more if you've read at least Book 1, but really you should just read the whole series.
Friends to lovers is one of my favorite tropes and there's a second chance thrown in there for Maddie as well, so double bonus. These two were best friends growing up and then BAM - all of a sudden they see each other in a new light. The singles retreat definitely helps move that along.
These two were fun, entertaining with enough low angst to keep it interesting. Jamison has a past that he isn't very proud of (and rightfully so) and Maddie's failed marriage has left deeper scars than she realizes - not a fan of Serge!!
If you love small town romances, hot firefighters, friends-to-lovers and everything in between - you are sure to enjoy this one.
I voluntarily requested and read an advance reader copy.
I was pleasantly surprised that I fell for Jamison so much. He is quite the player in the other books, but the way Maddie settles him is SWOON!! And Maddie is my fave of the sibling trio. She is strong, yet scarred very understandably so. You will enjoy this book more if you've read at least Book 1, but really you should just read the whole series.
Friends to lovers is one of my favorite tropes and there's a second chance thrown in there for Maddie as well, so double bonus. These two were best friends growing up and then BAM - all of a sudden they see each other in a new light. The singles retreat definitely helps move that along.
These two were fun, entertaining with enough low angst to keep it interesting. Jamison has a past that he isn't very proud of (and rightfully so) and Maddie's failed marriage has left deeper scars than she realizes - not a fan of Serge!!
If you love small town romances, hot firefighters, friends-to-lovers and everything in between - you are sure to enjoy this one.
I voluntarily requested and read an advance reader copy.
August 29, 2021
I love this series, but I think this is my favorite. Jameson and Maddie are the perfect friends to lovers romance with all the complications of a small town and close-knit family. When the boy who used to tease Maddie suddenly realizes he can't live without her, she understandably finds him hard to resist...but when that boy is also now a sexy fireman who can play your body like an instrument that sexy ship has sailed. Lili had me hooked on the possibility of Maddie & Jameson even before this book, so by chapter 2 I was all in. Maddie has been burned and doesn't trust judgment. Jameson moved back to Bliss River to set his life back in order after making a mistake. I really enjoyed their journey from friends to lovers and the lessons learned along the way. The narration by Teddy Hamilton and Lili Valente is excellent! That's no surprise, certainly...but they both bring all of the passion, fun, and steam to their performances. I loved it!
August 25, 2021
Playing with Fire is the third book in the Hometown Heat series by Lili Valente. Lili has re-written her Jessie Evans’ Fire and Icing series and I love it. It’s my first time with these characters and I love them and their small town. Each book can be read as standalone but I recommend reading the series.
Maddie and Jamison have known each other their whole lives. They have always just been friends but a few months ago there was an almost kiss that both of them haven’t forgotten but haven’t talked about. Now, they are both at a singles’ camping trip with 33 other singles ready to mingle. They decide not to get into each other’s way. That was until Maddie drinks whiskey and dares him to go skinny dipping in the ocean. It’s one hot night as friends but will it turn into more?
Maddie and Jamison have to be in the DL. There are some events coming up with the family and don’t want to rock the boat if they decide to split ways. Jamison hasn’t exactly been a relationship guy in the past and Maddie needs time to learn more about Jamison and his dating ways. She has always loved him as a friend but that doesn’t mean they are meant to be more than friends. Jamison wants her. He just needs to prove to her that she is special.
I loved this couple!! I have been falling for both of them since meeting them in All Fired Up. Jamison is just so yummy, sweet, and I would totally fall in his smolder-web. Maddie is a sweetheart who wants to feel real love. She also has a dirty side she has been hiding. Together, I loved their banter, sexy times, and loyalty. They made me get hot and bothered, laugh, cry, and swoon.
Quotes:
“Come and swim with me, Jamison,” I say. “I dare you.”
One heated look and I’m ready to get naked and shameless.
“I like the way you think.”
“And I like the way you kiss,” I say, pushing him reluctantly away. “So we’d better stop before my irresponsible side takes over.”
Maddie and Jamison have known each other their whole lives. They have always just been friends but a few months ago there was an almost kiss that both of them haven’t forgotten but haven’t talked about. Now, they are both at a singles’ camping trip with 33 other singles ready to mingle. They decide not to get into each other’s way. That was until Maddie drinks whiskey and dares him to go skinny dipping in the ocean. It’s one hot night as friends but will it turn into more?
Maddie and Jamison have to be in the DL. There are some events coming up with the family and don’t want to rock the boat if they decide to split ways. Jamison hasn’t exactly been a relationship guy in the past and Maddie needs time to learn more about Jamison and his dating ways. She has always loved him as a friend but that doesn’t mean they are meant to be more than friends. Jamison wants her. He just needs to prove to her that she is special.
I loved this couple!! I have been falling for both of them since meeting them in All Fired Up. Jamison is just so yummy, sweet, and I would totally fall in his smolder-web. Maddie is a sweetheart who wants to feel real love. She also has a dirty side she has been hiding. Together, I loved their banter, sexy times, and loyalty. They made me get hot and bothered, laugh, cry, and swoon.
Quotes:
“Come and swim with me, Jamison,” I say. “I dare you.”
One heated look and I’m ready to get naked and shameless.
“I like the way you think.”
“And I like the way you kiss,” I say, pushing him reluctantly away. “So we’d better stop before my irresponsible side takes over.”
August 29, 2021
Jamieson and Maddie were perfection…
This series has become my go to for snappy dialogue and all the romantic heat! Jamison and Maddie fit right in as family loyalty and friendship were going to morph into a heated and heartfelt romance…
I’m sure I laughed as long as I sighed longingly as I read this sweet, heated courtship. The awkwardness of just being human showed itself in so many ways that felt so familiar. Awkward waves, unusually worded comebacks and a need to be good vied with the need to reach out for someone (something!) that you knew would simply amazing. And what if that someone was just… there. Silently at your back, and always, always tempting…
Well, you do what Maddie does, you fight the attraction until you can’t fights no more! How she resisted so long will always remain a history… Another stellar read in the series!
*I happily reviewed this story
This series has become my go to for snappy dialogue and all the romantic heat! Jamison and Maddie fit right in as family loyalty and friendship were going to morph into a heated and heartfelt romance…
I’m sure I laughed as long as I sighed longingly as I read this sweet, heated courtship. The awkwardness of just being human showed itself in so many ways that felt so familiar. Awkward waves, unusually worded comebacks and a need to be good vied with the need to reach out for someone (something!) that you knew would simply amazing. And what if that someone was just… there. Silently at your back, and always, always tempting…
Well, you do what Maddie does, you fight the attraction until you can’t fights no more! How she resisted so long will always remain a history… Another stellar read in the series!
*I happily reviewed this story
January 4, 2022
I received this audiobook via a promo code at my request and this is my voluntary review.
This is my first book in the Hometown Heat series, worth noting as it is book 3 although it can be enjoyed as a standalone.
This tale focuses on hot playboy fireman Jamison getting it on during a camping trip with his best friend Maddie, the sister of his brothers fiancée. The romances hots up faster than Maddie's bakery oven and before long, Jamison is completely smitten, talking about babies and looking at wedding rings, all is going great until his wild love 'em and leave 'em past comes back to punch him in the face... leaving Maddie with doubts about the stability of a future he desperately wants to create with her.
A brilliant story told in Dual Narration by Lili Valante and Teddy Hamilton.
This is my first book in the Hometown Heat series, worth noting as it is book 3 although it can be enjoyed as a standalone.
This tale focuses on hot playboy fireman Jamison getting it on during a camping trip with his best friend Maddie, the sister of his brothers fiancée. The romances hots up faster than Maddie's bakery oven and before long, Jamison is completely smitten, talking about babies and looking at wedding rings, all is going great until his wild love 'em and leave 'em past comes back to punch him in the face... leaving Maddie with doubts about the stability of a future he desperately wants to create with her.
A brilliant story told in Dual Narration by Lili Valante and Teddy Hamilton.
August 15, 2021
Aw Jamison! I've wanted to hug him since the first mention of him in Jake and Naomi's book. I know it didn't show him in the best light, but I felt for him because he was real and flawed and honest. Too often our book heroes are too good to be true so I love a hero who has made mistakes and owns up to them. I mean also a big fan of the growly dirty talk and sexy smolder, but the real reason I liked him was his evolution. Maddie is perfect for him, but she had her own growth and understanding to go through. These two felt like they were destined for each other and the fact that their friendship evolved into something more made everything sweeter. Perfect book for when you need a break from the mundane, really made my heart smile in a way I didn't know I needed until it just... did.
August 27, 2021
Maddie and Jamison's story was such a great friends-to-lovers romance. Witty banter, heartfelt confessions, yearning, the pressure of trying to live up to other people's expectations while finding your own footing - this book has so much heart.
One of the best parts of this love story is that Maddie and Jamison have always loved each other. Sure, it looked different when they were children, but it is a very pure love to start, that is now turning into two souls finding what they need in each other.
The audio, narrated by Lili Valente and Teddy Hamilton, is wonderful. They both capture the yearning, the confusion, the passion and the longing of their characters. This was my favorite of the three in this series.
One of the best parts of this love story is that Maddie and Jamison have always loved each other. Sure, it looked different when they were children, but it is a very pure love to start, that is now turning into two souls finding what they need in each other.
The audio, narrated by Lili Valente and Teddy Hamilton, is wonderful. They both capture the yearning, the confusion, the passion and the longing of their characters. This was my favorite of the three in this series.
September 2, 2021
So I started with this book, and then went backwards because then I wanted to know what happened with the other couples and how they got there, but have to say this will still be my favorite. I liked Jamieson, yes what he did was slimy with his ex, but it was before Maddy. Now I get that Maddy had some insecurities due to her ex husband and I gave her a pass because of that, but I did want to knock her out a time or two, because Jamieson was really trying and he was giving her his all and his love and she kept pushing him away, not for long granted but still, I loved her friend Dawn and can't wait for her to get her HEA, and I loved her sister Naomi who was there for both of them. Jamieson's brother pissed me off a little, but hey it worked out at the end...
August 24, 2021
While Faith and Mick will forever hold a piece of my heart I absolutely adored Jamison and Maddie. Their chemistry was off the charts insane. But what I loved most about them was the realness of their fears, anxiety, and love for each other.
Maddie had all the same thoughts I've had before and Im sure I will have again. Her friend's always knew when to call her out and to help her focus on what matters. Jamison broke my heart a few times because unlike Maddie he had to figure out his problems alone due to mistakes made by his family. However, Maddie and Jamison were perfect together in the best way and I loved all of their scenes together!
Maddie had all the same thoughts I've had before and Im sure I will have again. Her friend's always knew when to call her out and to help her focus on what matters. Jamison broke my heart a few times because unlike Maddie he had to figure out his problems alone due to mistakes made by his family. However, Maddie and Jamison were perfect together in the best way and I loved all of their scenes together!
August 28, 2021
Oh how I loved this story. Jamison and Maddie are a match made in heaven. They have been friends forever and they continue to grow in ways that becomes so much more. This series is just getting better and I loved the banter, the laughter, a little bit of angst, and so much romance all packed with a punch.
I couldn't put this book down or get the story out of my mind. I loved these characters who seem like my own fictional family. You will love Jamison and Maddie and a whole lot more!!
August 28, 2021
Playing with Fire has everything I’ve come to expect from a Lili Valente book: a swoony hero, a fierce heroine, heartwarming romance, steamy love scenes, and lots of laugh-out-loud moments. I’ve been looking forward to Jamison’s story since he stole the show at the auction in book one. And it did not disappoint. Since he and Maddie have been lifelong friends, things between them moved pretty quickly. Like the rest of the series, their journey was a fun ride. It was such a joy to be back in Bliss River. And props to my girl Dawn for being a great friend and saying all the things I wanted to say, but couldn’t do through a book.
August 29, 2021
Note: An ARC was provided by the author.
Okay, I admit it: this book is my favorite one in the series. It had that great balance of sex and romance, and I quite enjoyed seeing Maddie and Jamison transition from supporting characters to main characters and from friends to lovers and then much more. I liked discovering their back stories, which then allowed me to have a better appreciation of how far they've come in terms of relationships and commitment. I loved getting to know these two, and any misconceptions I had were clarified. Lili Valente's Hometown Heat series has been fun; I'm happy it closes out with a five-starred read like Playing with Fire.
Okay, I admit it: this book is my favorite one in the series. It had that great balance of sex and romance, and I quite enjoyed seeing Maddie and Jamison transition from supporting characters to main characters and from friends to lovers and then much more. I liked discovering their back stories, which then allowed me to have a better appreciation of how far they've come in terms of relationships and commitment. I loved getting to know these two, and any misconceptions I had were clarified. Lili Valente's Hometown Heat series has been fun; I'm happy it closes out with a five-starred read like Playing with Fire.
August 29, 2021
Oh, I loved this. Where to start....this was hinted at in the last book, which made me want to read this story ASAP! (But it can 100% be read as a standalone.) This is almost a second-chance romance, kind of a best friends to enemies to lovers. Just really big on the feels.
It's always great heading back to Bliss River. It's more HEAs for all the past characters. Very fulfilling.
As usual, the writing is excellent. Great world-building and character development. Funny parts, feeling parts, conflict and awesome resolution.
Teddy Hamilton & Lili Valente are two of my favorite narrators. Teddy reminds me of Christian Slater. The narration was smooth and delightful.
It's always great heading back to Bliss River. It's more HEAs for all the past characters. Very fulfilling.
As usual, the writing is excellent. Great world-building and character development. Funny parts, feeling parts, conflict and awesome resolution.
Teddy Hamilton & Lili Valente are two of my favorite narrators. Teddy reminds me of Christian Slater. The narration was smooth and delightful.
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