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Mile High Firefighters #3
The Firefighter's Dilemma
Firefighter Stephanie Díaz won’t let anyone stop her from becoming the youngest female fire chief in Denver. Not the jerks who’d like to see an ambitious Latine woman admit defeat. Not the ultra-bro firefighters she has to work with. And definitely not her ridiculously hot and often infuriating, fellow firefighter Eli Ward. Now Stephanie has the chance to prove to everyone that she’s got what it takes…but there’s one helluva catch.
The Battle of the First Responders is a live, balls-out competition in the secluded Rockies and Stephanie has been selected—along with Ward as her partner. On the line are their reputations, a whole lot of cash…and the promotion they’ve been fighting for. Teaming up is the perfect chance to finally settle their never ending one-upmanship, but it also exposes the smoldering attraction they’ve held at bay.
Now their days are fueled by a high-stakes, adrenaline-fueled competition. Their nights are filled with sizzling deep kisses that steal her breath away. But this sexy little fling is about to set off a five-alarm blaze she can’t control…
Each book in The Mile High Firefighters series is
* The Dating Dilemma
* The Wedding Dilemma
* The Firefighter’s Dilemma
The Battle of the First Responders is a live, balls-out competition in the secluded Rockies and Stephanie has been selected—along with Ward as her partner. On the line are their reputations, a whole lot of cash…and the promotion they’ve been fighting for. Teaming up is the perfect chance to finally settle their never ending one-upmanship, but it also exposes the smoldering attraction they’ve held at bay.
Now their days are fueled by a high-stakes, adrenaline-fueled competition. Their nights are filled with sizzling deep kisses that steal her breath away. But this sexy little fling is about to set off a five-alarm blaze she can’t control…
Each book in The Mile High Firefighters series is
* The Dating Dilemma
* The Wedding Dilemma
* The Firefighter’s Dilemma
273 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 27, 2023
14 people are currently reading
324 people want to read
About the author
Mariah Ankenman
36 books776 followersBestselling author Mariah Ankenman lives in the beautiful Rocky Mountains with her two rambunctious children and loving spouse who is her own personal spell checker when her dyslexia gets the best of her.
Mariah loves to lose herself in a world of words. Her favorite thing about writing is when she can make someone’s day a little brighter with one of her books. To learn more about Mariah and her books follow her on social media or sign up for her newsletter.
Mariah loves to lose herself in a world of words. Her favorite thing about writing is when she can make someone’s day a little brighter with one of her books. To learn more about Mariah and her books follow her on social media or sign up for her newsletter.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 117 reviews
February 10, 2023
Sexy and fun.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
When it comes to firefighters, you know there’s got to be some heat and steam. That’s exactly what I was looking for in the story and you can bet the author delivered.
She also delivered a unique and fun story even though it was a bit different than what was expected.
Going on a reality show in order to win a position was kind of strange, but it worked. I love the two characters. I love the energy and spark that they had together. You know that when they figured each other out, it would be a combustible fire. And that it was.
The story is definitely, engaging, passionate, and a delicious read that just made me not want to put it down for one second. I read it in one day, it was that good.
Definitely want to check out The Firefighter’s Dilemma if you love firemen and firewomen with the passion they bring to their jobs and each other. Sexy and fun!
* copy received for review consideration
* full review - https://amidlifewife.com/the-firefigh...
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
When it comes to firefighters, you know there’s got to be some heat and steam. That’s exactly what I was looking for in the story and you can bet the author delivered.
She also delivered a unique and fun story even though it was a bit different than what was expected.
Going on a reality show in order to win a position was kind of strange, but it worked. I love the two characters. I love the energy and spark that they had together. You know that when they figured each other out, it would be a combustible fire. And that it was.
The story is definitely, engaging, passionate, and a delicious read that just made me not want to put it down for one second. I read it in one day, it was that good.
Definitely want to check out The Firefighter’s Dilemma if you love firemen and firewomen with the passion they bring to their jobs and each other. Sexy and fun!
* copy received for review consideration
* full review - https://amidlifewife.com/the-firefigh...
February 12, 2023
Sweet and unique story for these two firefighters
Loved the set up of a battle of the First Responders for a web show. I would actually love to watch that. Loved these two characters and their history with each other.
I liked that we took our time with competition, but I feel like their secret hook ups and falling in love felt rushed. They may have taken place over more time due to the web show but it felt like about 2 times and then the heroine was like.. STOP! People will KNOW! umm.. it just wasn't enough for me.
They were both good characters but I felt a bit was missing to believe that the hero came to this revelation so easily and she was 100% willing to do her grand gesture so quickly..
Anyway, this was still fun and sweet and I love a Firefighter Romance, especially when the woman is one too!
4 stars
2.5 on the spice scale
Loved the set up of a battle of the First Responders for a web show. I would actually love to watch that. Loved these two characters and their history with each other.
I liked that we took our time with competition, but I feel like their secret hook ups and falling in love felt rushed. They may have taken place over more time due to the web show but it felt like about 2 times and then the heroine was like.. STOP! People will KNOW! umm.. it just wasn't enough for me.
They were both good characters but I felt a bit was missing to believe that the hero came to this revelation so easily and she was 100% willing to do her grand gesture so quickly..
Anyway, this was still fun and sweet and I love a Firefighter Romance, especially when the woman is one too!
4 stars
2.5 on the spice scale
February 25, 2023
My first firefighter romance coupled with the first time I have read anything by Mariah Ankenman, I can honestly say she has a new fan! Even though this is a standalone, it throws back to the previous two books and hints that whatever is between Diaz and Ward has been brewing for awhile. For that reason, I can't wait to go back and start from the beginning!
Determined to always be the best, the brightest, and the fastest, Stephanie Diaz is a force amongst men! As one of the only two female firefighters at Station 42, she holds her own and is fixated on making a name for herself. Despite an almost career-destroying setback at her prior station, Diaz has the respect of the fellow members of her team, including Ward who can take her insults, teasing, and laughs as well gives them. Competitive to a fault, Diaz isn’t surprised when she finds out the Chief has selected her and Ward to participate in a reality competition for first responders. She is; however, shocked to find out there is a Lieutenant position open with a clear track to becoming a Chief. Knowing Ward wants to become Chief just as bad as she does, she is dead-set to win the competition and prove she is the best person for the job. So what if her mind has been misfiring lately when Ward is around. As long as she can keep her distance and her head in the game she’s safe - until she finds out she will be sharing a cabin with Ward for two solid weeks. Still, she is sure she can stay focused as long as Ward never discovers her growing attraction towards him. Trouble is, Ward has had a crush on Diaz for four years. The idea of being in close quarters and not letting his desire for her slip through is going to be impossible. He is convinced he can handle the situation until he notices the heat in her eyes when she looks at him. The question is, who will break first?
What I like about it: I always love good banter in a book and this one is no exception. The ribbing between Ward and Diaz is hilarious. The moments Ward turns up the charm are sizzling hot and Diaz constantly putting out those little fires (pun intended) is what made the interactions absolutely delightful. They just played off each other so well but to learn how much deeper the feelings go, especially for Ward, just makes those scenes that much stronger. As I haven’t watched a lot of reality shows, I can only suspect that their suspicion of Gina is true to form. The surprises, the dirty plays, feeding the need to win despite all else, it creates such an electric current under the story that you don’t know whether you want to focus on the situation heating up between Diaz and Ward or the suspense of the competition. As for the way the story ended, it was absolutely wonderful and perfect for who Diaz was. I couldn’t imagine it being written any other way.
Peeking at the sweltering moments of the story - I would love to say something cheesy like “With a firefighter story, of course they brought the heat” but even I have to roll my eyes at that. I will just say Mariah knew what she was doing when she built up (as in escalated) each moment with Diaz and Ward. From their almost moments, to their start but interrupted kiss, to their eventual entanglement - there wasn’t a second that the spice was lost. It was sweet, it was passionate, it was hot!
Back to Diaz, I am so glad Mariah doubled down on how difficult it is, especially for women - let along a woman of color, to make it in a male dominated field. The double standards Diaz was subjected to, how much harder and better she had to be at everything, and how alone she felt with that plight because her male counterparts would never understand that struggle. The fact that someone she trusted used that against her to get ahead was sickening but not surprising where women are still begrudgingly accepted, let along treated as equals.
With that, I applaud Mariah. I love it when an author writes a heartbreak so earth shattering that it yanks at your empathy strings, pulling up memories of your own past (or the emotional connection of friends who you have nurtured through a heartbreak) and makes you want to reach through the pages and console the character.
Without hesitation, I have already added the first two stories to my TBR stack! I can't wait to go back to the beginning and enjoy the world that Mariah has created. If she had this much heart in her third book, I can only imagine what is waiting for me in her first two!
Determined to always be the best, the brightest, and the fastest, Stephanie Diaz is a force amongst men! As one of the only two female firefighters at Station 42, she holds her own and is fixated on making a name for herself. Despite an almost career-destroying setback at her prior station, Diaz has the respect of the fellow members of her team, including Ward who can take her insults, teasing, and laughs as well gives them. Competitive to a fault, Diaz isn’t surprised when she finds out the Chief has selected her and Ward to participate in a reality competition for first responders. She is; however, shocked to find out there is a Lieutenant position open with a clear track to becoming a Chief. Knowing Ward wants to become Chief just as bad as she does, she is dead-set to win the competition and prove she is the best person for the job. So what if her mind has been misfiring lately when Ward is around. As long as she can keep her distance and her head in the game she’s safe - until she finds out she will be sharing a cabin with Ward for two solid weeks. Still, she is sure she can stay focused as long as Ward never discovers her growing attraction towards him. Trouble is, Ward has had a crush on Diaz for four years. The idea of being in close quarters and not letting his desire for her slip through is going to be impossible. He is convinced he can handle the situation until he notices the heat in her eyes when she looks at him. The question is, who will break first?
What I like about it: I always love good banter in a book and this one is no exception. The ribbing between Ward and Diaz is hilarious. The moments Ward turns up the charm are sizzling hot and Diaz constantly putting out those little fires (pun intended) is what made the interactions absolutely delightful. They just played off each other so well but to learn how much deeper the feelings go, especially for Ward, just makes those scenes that much stronger. As I haven’t watched a lot of reality shows, I can only suspect that their suspicion of Gina is true to form. The surprises, the dirty plays, feeding the need to win despite all else, it creates such an electric current under the story that you don’t know whether you want to focus on the situation heating up between Diaz and Ward or the suspense of the competition. As for the way the story ended, it was absolutely wonderful and perfect for who Diaz was. I couldn’t imagine it being written any other way.
Peeking at the sweltering moments of the story - I would love to say something cheesy like “With a firefighter story, of course they brought the heat” but even I have to roll my eyes at that. I will just say Mariah knew what she was doing when she built up (as in escalated) each moment with Diaz and Ward. From their almost moments, to their start but interrupted kiss, to their eventual entanglement - there wasn’t a second that the spice was lost. It was sweet, it was passionate, it was hot!
Back to Diaz, I am so glad Mariah doubled down on how difficult it is, especially for women - let along a woman of color, to make it in a male dominated field. The double standards Diaz was subjected to, how much harder and better she had to be at everything, and how alone she felt with that plight because her male counterparts would never understand that struggle. The fact that someone she trusted used that against her to get ahead was sickening but not surprising where women are still begrudgingly accepted, let along treated as equals.
With that, I applaud Mariah. I love it when an author writes a heartbreak so earth shattering that it yanks at your empathy strings, pulling up memories of your own past (or the emotional connection of friends who you have nurtured through a heartbreak) and makes you want to reach through the pages and console the character.
Without hesitation, I have already added the first two stories to my TBR stack! I can't wait to go back to the beginning and enjoy the world that Mariah has created. If she had this much heart in her third book, I can only imagine what is waiting for me in her first two!
February 11, 2023
I am new to the author and this Mile High Firefighters series but read easily as a standalone. Firefighter Stephanie Diaz goal is to be the youngest female fire chief in Denver. As a woman and a minority she feels she has to work twice as hard as her male counterparts. It is good she absolutely loves her work. Fellow fire fighter Eli Ward is a legacy. His dad was a chief as was his grandfather. Eli and Diaz have worked together and been friends for the last four years.
The chief assigns them as teammates for The Battle of the First Responders. It is a competition that includes a team from police, nurses, paramedics etc for a new show on a social media app. The chief also dangles a new promotion (lieutenant) potentially for one of them depending on how they perform. There is charity prize money and a personal bonus that both can use which serves as additional incentive to not only do well as a team but to shine individually. Of course in the forced proximity of their cabin the flirting and attraction flares.
This is fun, easy going read. I love the genuine friendship feelings and respect the two have for each other. Diaz has a strict no messing with co-workers rule that is an issue. But rules are made to be broken temporarily sometimes. I like that Eli has a little growth in self awareness about his goals. And I appreciate the ending plays out with both staying competitive in the game. I did cringe when the chief mentions winning star challenges as one of his reasons for giving his promotion recommendation. That one line discounts four years of hard work ethic and every other skill the person demonstrates. I know that wasn’t the only reason for the promotion recommendation but it bugged me. (I didn’t spoil who gets the promotion.) (3.5 Stars)
Thank you to NetGalley and Entangled Publishing, LLC for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The chief assigns them as teammates for The Battle of the First Responders. It is a competition that includes a team from police, nurses, paramedics etc for a new show on a social media app. The chief also dangles a new promotion (lieutenant) potentially for one of them depending on how they perform. There is charity prize money and a personal bonus that both can use which serves as additional incentive to not only do well as a team but to shine individually. Of course in the forced proximity of their cabin the flirting and attraction flares.
This is fun, easy going read. I love the genuine friendship feelings and respect the two have for each other. Diaz has a strict no messing with co-workers rule that is an issue. But rules are made to be broken temporarily sometimes. I like that Eli has a little growth in self awareness about his goals. And I appreciate the ending plays out with both staying competitive in the game. I did cringe when the chief mentions winning star challenges as one of his reasons for giving his promotion recommendation. That one line discounts four years of hard work ethic and every other skill the person demonstrates. I know that wasn’t the only reason for the promotion recommendation but it bugged me. (I didn’t spoil who gets the promotion.) (3.5 Stars)
Thank you to NetGalley and Entangled Publishing, LLC for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
October 1, 2023
4.25 Stars / 3.5 Steam Fans
Finally Diaz and Ward's romance during a first responders competition show.
CW: Grief, Secret Crush, Firehouse Politics, Sexisum, Reality TV, Forced Proximity
Video review available in Week 35: Aug 27 – Sep 2, 2023, weekly book reviews on Steph's Romance Book Talk (https://www.youtube.com/@stephsromanc...)
Finally Diaz and Ward's romance during a first responders competition show.
CW: Grief, Secret Crush, Firehouse Politics, Sexisum, Reality TV, Forced Proximity
Video review available in Week 35: Aug 27 – Sep 2, 2023, weekly book reviews on Steph's Romance Book Talk (https://www.youtube.com/@stephsromanc...)
May 5, 2024
This was a spicy, dual POV, forced proximity friends to lovers romance between two firefighter coworkers who both enter a reality tv competition to win $10,000. Quick, entertaining and steamy, this was a really fun read perfect for fans of books like Things you save in a fire by Katherine Center. Great on audio too!!
March 1, 2023
Firefighter Stephanie Díaz is one badass woman, who likes control everywhere. When she has to team up with her fellow firefighter Eli Ward for a special competition she definitely wants to win cash and the promotion she always wanted, no matter what.
But... spending so much time with Ward on contests can be totally tempting... and what's going to happen when she loses control?
OMG!
This absolutely hot, funny and sexy romantic comedy was WONDERFUL!
The Firefighter's Dilemma was my first Mariah Ankenman book and the good thing is that she has more books I can read! Hehehe. 😊
I loved the chemistry of Diaz and Ward! They were definitely like cat and dog, but later there was FIRE! 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Stephanie Diaz - the woman in control. Always focused and a real fighter.
And Eli Ward - the cuuuute and handsome guy. Sexy firefighter with a heart of gold!
OMG he totally stole my heart and I never want it back! 😄
I loved this love story about firefighters and this special competition they had to deal with.
Besides their feelings both had different things to deal with in their lives.
I really enjoyed the development of their relationship! From firefighter colleagues to... hmmmm... more?! I won't tell you to spoil you, but c'mon! It's a rom-com! LOL
Thank you so much to Mariah Ankenman and Entangled Publishing for this ARC via NetGalley.
This is my honest review in my own words.
But... spending so much time with Ward on contests can be totally tempting... and what's going to happen when she loses control?
OMG!
This absolutely hot, funny and sexy romantic comedy was WONDERFUL!
The Firefighter's Dilemma was my first Mariah Ankenman book and the good thing is that she has more books I can read! Hehehe. 😊
I loved the chemistry of Diaz and Ward! They were definitely like cat and dog, but later there was FIRE! 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Stephanie Diaz - the woman in control. Always focused and a real fighter.
And Eli Ward - the cuuuute and handsome guy. Sexy firefighter with a heart of gold!
OMG he totally stole my heart and I never want it back! 😄
I loved this love story about firefighters and this special competition they had to deal with.
Besides their feelings both had different things to deal with in their lives.
I really enjoyed the development of their relationship! From firefighter colleagues to... hmmmm... more?! I won't tell you to spoil you, but c'mon! It's a rom-com! LOL
Thank you so much to Mariah Ankenman and Entangled Publishing for this ARC via NetGalley.
This is my honest review in my own words.
April 2, 2023
Quick Summary: A 5-alarm fire romance
My Review: The Firefighter’s Dilemma by Mariah Ankenman was a little bit of sass and a whole heap of hotness.
About the Book:
When Stephanie and Eli were forced into close proximity for a competition, little did they know that the magnitude of their attraction to one another would be turned up to full blast. As they did everything in their power to become the winning team, they had to face an ever growing attraction. Would either have the power to walk away from the other person?
About the Tension/Chemistry; The tension between the partners was palpable. From the beginning, it was easy to see that something was there. No matter how they fought, they were always destined to generate the type of heat that can only lead to forever.
My Final Say; Readers who enjoy stories with strong female leads and honorable male supports will really like this story. I strongly recommend it.
Rating: 4.5/5
Recommend: Yes
Audience: NA to A
Re-read: Yes
Status/Level: 🌶️
Thanks to the author and to Entangled Publishing for providing a digital ARC for review via NetGalley. The words I have shared are my own.
My Review: The Firefighter’s Dilemma by Mariah Ankenman was a little bit of sass and a whole heap of hotness.
About the Book:
When Stephanie and Eli were forced into close proximity for a competition, little did they know that the magnitude of their attraction to one another would be turned up to full blast. As they did everything in their power to become the winning team, they had to face an ever growing attraction. Would either have the power to walk away from the other person?
About the Tension/Chemistry; The tension between the partners was palpable. From the beginning, it was easy to see that something was there. No matter how they fought, they were always destined to generate the type of heat that can only lead to forever.
My Final Say; Readers who enjoy stories with strong female leads and honorable male supports will really like this story. I strongly recommend it.
Rating: 4.5/5
Recommend: Yes
Audience: NA to A
Re-read: Yes
Status/Level: 🌶️
Thanks to the author and to Entangled Publishing for providing a digital ARC for review via NetGalley. The words I have shared are my own.
March 5, 2023
Watching these two battle through the obstacles set before them...like ACTUAL obstacles because of the reality show bit...was amazing. Seeing their determination, drive, and skills on display, seriously gives you a new respect for the roles they fill...but, watching them get closer to giving themselves a chance...now that was TRULY spectacular. If you don't combust from the sexy times as they occur, you will from the flood of emotions. I know, I know...you want your read one way, or the other...but quite frankly, I LOVE the mix of BOTH! It gives it balance. It brings it to life. It shows that there are some things in life worth fighting for, some PEOPLE worth the extra effort.
It was a great addition to the Mile High Firefighters series, and a fun, heart-filled, rom com to boot!
*ecopy received for review; opinions are my own
It was a great addition to the Mile High Firefighters series, and a fun, heart-filled, rom com to boot!
*ecopy received for review; opinions are my own
March 5, 2023
Stephanie is a firefighter who has worked to get where she is in her field. When she is chosen to participate in a competition with Eli, her fellow fighter, it is both a curse and a blessing. The opportunity is a steppingstone to allow her to reach her career goals, but the forced proximity will make denying her attraction to him that much more difficult.
Eli Ward comes from a family of firefighters and has carried on the tradition. He finds himself in pretty much the same position as Stephanie both when it comes to his career and his attraction to her. Let the fun begin!
I enjoyed that both Stephanie and Eli respected each other personally and professionally. She is strong and independent while he is swoony, and you are invested in their story as they fight to everything they want including each other.
Eli Ward comes from a family of firefighters and has carried on the tradition. He finds himself in pretty much the same position as Stephanie both when it comes to his career and his attraction to her. Let the fun begin!
I enjoyed that both Stephanie and Eli respected each other personally and professionally. She is strong and independent while he is swoony, and you are invested in their story as they fight to everything they want including each other.
January 23, 2023
A cute, light read! Ive also read the first one in this series, and I definitely like this one more. I found Stephanie and Eli to be hilarious, and the flirting was fantastic. Im always down for a competition, and this one mostly delivered. I found some of the challenges a bit easy, or a bit convenient, like the storm. Also some of the side plots broke down a bit, but this is a great read for anyone that loves firefighters or an opposites attract couple.
January 31, 2023
This was my first book in this series — you couldn’t even tell it was part of a series, I don’t feel like I missed out. I loved the competition part of this book. It was a fun read. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an advanced copy.
September 19, 2023
I don't know what it was about this book but it wasn't it for me. I'm not sure which ethnicity the author is from but randomly making a character Latine. I don't know the book wasn't for me and the whole plot was like predictable.
not a fan.
not a fan.
March 6, 2023
This is book 3 in the Mile High Firefighter’s series, but can totally be read as a standalone. I really enjoyed this and haven’t read the first two books.
This is a really great forced proximity, coworker, “let’s keep this a secret” romance. Stephanie Diaz has been burned before by dating a coworker and her reputation as she climbs the ladder to chief is too precious to her to risk admitting feelings for Eli.
I loved Eli and Stephanie being partners in a Rocky Mountain “First Responders” reality competition. They were both at the top of their game and definitely brought their best to the competition. Working so closely together made ignoring their connection so much harder.
They both had terrific reasons for wanting to win as a team and additionally to be singled out as the star performer. But I loved how neither sacrificed the other to gain for themselves.
I was so happy when they gave into their feelings, but hated that they felt they had to keep it hidden. I loved how it wrapped up and the epilogue was terrific. Steli Forever!!
This is a really great forced proximity, coworker, “let’s keep this a secret” romance. Stephanie Diaz has been burned before by dating a coworker and her reputation as she climbs the ladder to chief is too precious to her to risk admitting feelings for Eli.
I loved Eli and Stephanie being partners in a Rocky Mountain “First Responders” reality competition. They were both at the top of their game and definitely brought their best to the competition. Working so closely together made ignoring their connection so much harder.
They both had terrific reasons for wanting to win as a team and additionally to be singled out as the star performer. But I loved how neither sacrificed the other to gain for themselves.
I was so happy when they gave into their feelings, but hated that they felt they had to keep it hidden. I loved how it wrapped up and the epilogue was terrific. Steli Forever!!
February 10, 2023
I really didn’t care so much for this book. I’m not too into this type of romance. It was just too much for me. I just couldn’t finish this book. It wasn’t for me at all
February 24, 2023
The Firefighter's Dilemma is the third book in the Mile High Firefighters series by Mariah Ankenman and is currently scheduled for release on February 27 2023. Each book in the series can be read on its own.
Firefighter Stephanie Díaz won’t let anyone stop her from becoming the youngest female fire chief in Denver. Not the jerks who’d like to see an ambitious Latine woman admit defeat. Not the ultra-bro firefighters she has to work with. And definitely not her ridiculously hot and often infuriating, fellow firefighter Eli Ward. Now Stephanie has the chance to prove to everyone that she’s got what it takes…but there’s one helluva catch. The Battle of the First Responders is a live, balls-out competition in the secluded Rockies and Stephanie has been selected—along with Ward as her partner. On the line are their reputations, a whole lot of cash…and the promotion they’ve been fighting for. Teaming up is the perfect chance to finally settle their never ending one-upmanship, but it also exposes the smoldering attraction they’ve held at bay. Now their days are fueled by a high-stakes, adrenaline-fueled competition. Their nights are filled with sizzling deep kisses that steal her breath away. But this sexy little fling is about to set off a five-alarm blaze she can’t control.
The Firefighter's Dilemma is a great friends/coworker to more romance. I love that neither ever expected to come together, and I really enjoyed getting to know the characters (well getting to know them better since I have read some related books) and see them figure things out. Diaz is a favorite of mine- I love her strength and her vulnerable, caring side. Ward is fun and alot more self aware than most, and a generally great guy. I loved the banter and comradery between them- even when thing were not going according to plan. I thought the fact that the author can make me interested in the stories of even the secondary, troublemaking characters is a great skill and they use it in the very best way. I enjoyed the read and loved the balance of fun, humor, suspense and some serious introspective moments for both the main characters was spot on.
The Firefighter's Dilemma is yet another fun and engaging read from Ankenman.
Firefighter Stephanie Díaz won’t let anyone stop her from becoming the youngest female fire chief in Denver. Not the jerks who’d like to see an ambitious Latine woman admit defeat. Not the ultra-bro firefighters she has to work with. And definitely not her ridiculously hot and often infuriating, fellow firefighter Eli Ward. Now Stephanie has the chance to prove to everyone that she’s got what it takes…but there’s one helluva catch. The Battle of the First Responders is a live, balls-out competition in the secluded Rockies and Stephanie has been selected—along with Ward as her partner. On the line are their reputations, a whole lot of cash…and the promotion they’ve been fighting for. Teaming up is the perfect chance to finally settle their never ending one-upmanship, but it also exposes the smoldering attraction they’ve held at bay. Now their days are fueled by a high-stakes, adrenaline-fueled competition. Their nights are filled with sizzling deep kisses that steal her breath away. But this sexy little fling is about to set off a five-alarm blaze she can’t control.
The Firefighter's Dilemma is a great friends/coworker to more romance. I love that neither ever expected to come together, and I really enjoyed getting to know the characters (well getting to know them better since I have read some related books) and see them figure things out. Diaz is a favorite of mine- I love her strength and her vulnerable, caring side. Ward is fun and alot more self aware than most, and a generally great guy. I loved the banter and comradery between them- even when thing were not going according to plan. I thought the fact that the author can make me interested in the stories of even the secondary, troublemaking characters is a great skill and they use it in the very best way. I enjoyed the read and loved the balance of fun, humor, suspense and some serious introspective moments for both the main characters was spot on.
The Firefighter's Dilemma is yet another fun and engaging read from Ankenman.
March 2, 2023
New to me author Mariah Ankenman really put a smile on my face and made me so happy. Stephanie and Eli were a pleasure to read.
Eli is a legacy firefighter. His father, his grandfather … chiefs. It’s in his blood to be the best firefighter he can be, to rise up the ladder and be the man he promised his father he would be. But, is it in his blood? Is this what he really wants with his life? It takes long talks and a week with the one woman his heart is longing for, for him to realize what he really wants. All his father wanted for him was to be happy. Just what or who will make him happy? When you are stuck in a cabin for a week with the woman of your dreams, you can’t help but flirt a little, right? You can’t help but hope that she feels the same for you.
Ambitious is the exact word to describe Stephanie Diaz. Determined is another one. She’s happy, can be care-free when not at the firehouse and competitive. There is not a battle that she won’t undertake and win. Until her inner battle about one Eli Ward. When you are stuck in a cabin for a week with a man that you always thought was HOT, you can’t help but flirt back, right? But, she can’t/won’t get involved with a co-worker. Getting burned once is all it takes to make her see what a mistake it can be. But, who is going to know if she gives in for just this week?
I fell in love with both Stephanie and Eli right from the beginning of The Firefighter’s Dilemma. Their chemistry was off the pages. I adored the competition between the two of them and how it not only brought out their competitiveness but their feelings. Their banter was off the charts funny. They were good together on and off camera. They had each other’s backs no matter what was thrown at them. Yep, I was definitely a Steli fan.
Mariah Ankenman wrote two wonderful characters and surrounded them with great family, friends and co-workers. I enjoyed the competition and seeing Stephanie open up to new friendships and relationships. Eli making the decisions he made had me smiling. The story line and the characters were all very well written. She created a believable world with characters that were realistic.
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
Eli is a legacy firefighter. His father, his grandfather … chiefs. It’s in his blood to be the best firefighter he can be, to rise up the ladder and be the man he promised his father he would be. But, is it in his blood? Is this what he really wants with his life? It takes long talks and a week with the one woman his heart is longing for, for him to realize what he really wants. All his father wanted for him was to be happy. Just what or who will make him happy? When you are stuck in a cabin for a week with the woman of your dreams, you can’t help but flirt a little, right? You can’t help but hope that she feels the same for you.
Ambitious is the exact word to describe Stephanie Diaz. Determined is another one. She’s happy, can be care-free when not at the firehouse and competitive. There is not a battle that she won’t undertake and win. Until her inner battle about one Eli Ward. When you are stuck in a cabin for a week with a man that you always thought was HOT, you can’t help but flirt back, right? But, she can’t/won’t get involved with a co-worker. Getting burned once is all it takes to make her see what a mistake it can be. But, who is going to know if she gives in for just this week?
I fell in love with both Stephanie and Eli right from the beginning of The Firefighter’s Dilemma. Their chemistry was off the pages. I adored the competition between the two of them and how it not only brought out their competitiveness but their feelings. Their banter was off the charts funny. They were good together on and off camera. They had each other’s backs no matter what was thrown at them. Yep, I was definitely a Steli fan.
Mariah Ankenman wrote two wonderful characters and surrounded them with great family, friends and co-workers. I enjoyed the competition and seeing Stephanie open up to new friendships and relationships. Eli making the decisions he made had me smiling. The story line and the characters were all very well written. She created a believable world with characters that were realistic.
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
March 6, 2023
RATING: ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
SPICE: 🔥🔥🔥
This was a fun, sexy read about two rival colleagues who are forced to work together and find that there was more to their adversarial relationship.
Stephanie Diaz and Eli Ward always loved a good competition, especially if the other firefighter was involved. When their chief assigned them to an online competition for first responders, it was no question that they would be in. It helps that the competition was essentially an audition for a job promotion.
What they did not account for by being part of this competition as a team is the close proximity and the opportunity to learn more about each other. This puts our main characters in a tough spot: Their feelings conflict with Stephanie's ambition and Eli's intent to protect his family's legacy.
Rivals-to-lovers is my jam, and this read is spot-on. I have loved Eli and Stephanie's banter since The Dating Dilemma so I was looking forward to this read. It did not disappoint. Their chemistry was red-hot. I especially love their flirty exchanges masquerading as ribbing.
For Amazing Race fans, this read is also a fun treat. Mariah Ankenman did a great job of creating a playful suspense with each competition. She layers each contest with wonderful tension between our main characters.
The spicy moments? Well worth the slow-burn wait. Eli and Stephanie brings similar electric energy to the bedroom that left a grin on my face.
This is the third book in the Mile High Firefighters series, but it can be read as a standalone.
** I am voluntarily reviewing an advance copy of this book. Thank you to Mariah Ankenman, Entangled Publishing, and NetGalley for providing an ARC. **
SPICE: 🔥🔥🔥
This was a fun, sexy read about two rival colleagues who are forced to work together and find that there was more to their adversarial relationship.
Stephanie Diaz and Eli Ward always loved a good competition, especially if the other firefighter was involved. When their chief assigned them to an online competition for first responders, it was no question that they would be in. It helps that the competition was essentially an audition for a job promotion.
What they did not account for by being part of this competition as a team is the close proximity and the opportunity to learn more about each other. This puts our main characters in a tough spot: Their feelings conflict with Stephanie's ambition and Eli's intent to protect his family's legacy.
Rivals-to-lovers is my jam, and this read is spot-on. I have loved Eli and Stephanie's banter since The Dating Dilemma so I was looking forward to this read. It did not disappoint. Their chemistry was red-hot. I especially love their flirty exchanges masquerading as ribbing.
For Amazing Race fans, this read is also a fun treat. Mariah Ankenman did a great job of creating a playful suspense with each competition. She layers each contest with wonderful tension between our main characters.
The spicy moments? Well worth the slow-burn wait. Eli and Stephanie brings similar electric energy to the bedroom that left a grin on my face.
This is the third book in the Mile High Firefighters series, but it can be read as a standalone.
** I am voluntarily reviewing an advance copy of this book. Thank you to Mariah Ankenman, Entangled Publishing, and NetGalley for providing an ARC. **
February 27, 2023
The Firefighter's Dilemma by Mariah Ankenman, book three in her Mile High Firefighters series, had me laughing-out loud, tears rolling down your face, while reading Stephanie and Eli’s workmates, friends to lovers, somewhat opposites attract, forced proximity romance story. There are some heavy topics that drives each of them to succeed: family, and a parental death; but do not overpower a story that is about the fun, the relationship, the attraction, and the spark.
Stephanie Diaz and Eli Ward have been coworkers as firefighters for four years. They know they can’t have feelings for each other and continue working at the same Fire Station. Then their chief decides to send them on a reality show, the Rocky Mountain “First Responders” reality competition, together with a warning that he will decide who gets the promotion they both are vying for. Eli and Stephanie were the perfect partners. They both had terrific reasons for wanting to win as a team and additionally to be singled out as the star performer; and I loved how neither sacrificed the other to gain for themselves.
They were both at the top of their game and definitely brought their best to the competition; working so closely together made ignoring their attraction so much more difficult. I was so glad when they gave into their feelings, but hated that they felt they had to keep it hidden. I loved how it wrapped up and the epilogue was terrific. Steli Forever!!
Ms. Ankenman wrote a laugh-out-loud, wonderful and endearing great friends/coworker to more romance that I could not put down and should not be missed. She provided a tale rich with emotions, attraction, chemistry, clever banter, humor, and a cast of secondary characters assisting Eli and Stephanie get the love and future they deserve. I highly recommend The Firefighter’s Dilemma to other readers and look forward to the next book in this series.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy prior to purchase of this book.
Stephanie Diaz and Eli Ward have been coworkers as firefighters for four years. They know they can’t have feelings for each other and continue working at the same Fire Station. Then their chief decides to send them on a reality show, the Rocky Mountain “First Responders” reality competition, together with a warning that he will decide who gets the promotion they both are vying for. Eli and Stephanie were the perfect partners. They both had terrific reasons for wanting to win as a team and additionally to be singled out as the star performer; and I loved how neither sacrificed the other to gain for themselves.
They were both at the top of their game and definitely brought their best to the competition; working so closely together made ignoring their attraction so much more difficult. I was so glad when they gave into their feelings, but hated that they felt they had to keep it hidden. I loved how it wrapped up and the epilogue was terrific. Steli Forever!!
Ms. Ankenman wrote a laugh-out-loud, wonderful and endearing great friends/coworker to more romance that I could not put down and should not be missed. She provided a tale rich with emotions, attraction, chemistry, clever banter, humor, and a cast of secondary characters assisting Eli and Stephanie get the love and future they deserve. I highly recommend The Firefighter’s Dilemma to other readers and look forward to the next book in this series.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy prior to purchase of this book.
January 29, 2023
Thank you so so much to the author and the publisher, Entangled Publishing Amara, for sharing an ARC of this book with me on NetGalley!!!
“And how did he know all this? Because, foolishly, he had a huge crush on the woman”
“She could bring him to his knees with nothing but a smile”
“You are the badassiest of badasses, Díaz”
This book was AWSOME !!! I still have chills after reading it !!!! Such a sweet and addicting romance!!! This is the third book in the Mile High Firefighters series and after reading book two … saying that I was excited to get book three would be an understatement!!!!
This series is my small guilty pleasure and I won’t complain ever for the HEA at the end of each books!!
And the tropes in this one were just something else entirely !!!
We have rivals to lovers, forced proximity, banter and sexual tension and a handsome man who has a terrible crush for the fmc !!!!
Plus we also have a one cabin trope so … yes, there’s that !!!!
I had chills and the spicy scene were absolutely amazing!!!!! I had so much fun getting through this characters romance story and Stephanie and Eli were just superior !!!!
A badass “I know it all” and a sexy “can’t take one thing seriously in my life” … together you will see sparks fly and you won’t be able to put the book down !!! I so can’t wait for this book to be out !!!
"All this chemistry is just a product of being close to each other with no one else around? No one to interrupt us if we decide to give in to this thing? No one to hear you scream out my name as I drive you to the brink of oblivion?"
“And how did he know all this? Because, foolishly, he had a huge crush on the woman”
“She could bring him to his knees with nothing but a smile”
“You are the badassiest of badasses, Díaz”
This book was AWSOME !!! I still have chills after reading it !!!! Such a sweet and addicting romance!!! This is the third book in the Mile High Firefighters series and after reading book two … saying that I was excited to get book three would be an understatement!!!!
This series is my small guilty pleasure and I won’t complain ever for the HEA at the end of each books!!
And the tropes in this one were just something else entirely !!!
We have rivals to lovers, forced proximity, banter and sexual tension and a handsome man who has a terrible crush for the fmc !!!!
Plus we also have a one cabin trope so … yes, there’s that !!!!
I had chills and the spicy scene were absolutely amazing!!!!! I had so much fun getting through this characters romance story and Stephanie and Eli were just superior !!!!
A badass “I know it all” and a sexy “can’t take one thing seriously in my life” … together you will see sparks fly and you won’t be able to put the book down !!! I so can’t wait for this book to be out !!!
"All this chemistry is just a product of being close to each other with no one else around? No one to interrupt us if we decide to give in to this thing? No one to hear you scream out my name as I drive you to the brink of oblivion?"
January 30, 2023
Stephanie and Eli have worked together at the firehouse for four years. They are the only ones not in relationships. They share a solid friendship, and enjoy each other's company - and as it happens, a bit of unrequited tension.
This is a workmates, friends to lovers, (maybe) opposites attract, forced proximity romance. There's some fun banter between the two - with Eli very respectful of his workmate, and Stephanie a driven, brave woman fighting gender and cultural norms. She always feels she has a point to prove and she has to be the best. When Eli and Stephanie are both being considered for a promotion, their boss sends them off to a reality competition for first responders. Both want to win - Stephanie for the career (and money for a new car) and Eli for the money for his mother's cataract surgery. While there, the tension is palpable and Stephanie proposes a time limited fling to get it out of their systems. Yeah girl, that will work !!!
Such a fun book overall. They are some heavy topics such as the things driving each of them to succeed, and issues such as family, and parental death, But this book doesn't see them overwhelm the storyline, in that it's all about the fun, the relationship, and a little steam. It's not too intense, but enough you're invested, and both characters are well written, likeable, and reflect a little growth. You can see them being a good match.
Totally recommend this one, not knowing it was part of a series. I'll need to go back and look at the others in the series now and catch myself up.
3.5 stars rounded up
This is a workmates, friends to lovers, (maybe) opposites attract, forced proximity romance. There's some fun banter between the two - with Eli very respectful of his workmate, and Stephanie a driven, brave woman fighting gender and cultural norms. She always feels she has a point to prove and she has to be the best. When Eli and Stephanie are both being considered for a promotion, their boss sends them off to a reality competition for first responders. Both want to win - Stephanie for the career (and money for a new car) and Eli for the money for his mother's cataract surgery. While there, the tension is palpable and Stephanie proposes a time limited fling to get it out of their systems. Yeah girl, that will work !!!
Such a fun book overall. They are some heavy topics such as the things driving each of them to succeed, and issues such as family, and parental death, But this book doesn't see them overwhelm the storyline, in that it's all about the fun, the relationship, and a little steam. It's not too intense, but enough you're invested, and both characters are well written, likeable, and reflect a little growth. You can see them being a good match.
Totally recommend this one, not knowing it was part of a series. I'll need to go back and look at the others in the series now and catch myself up.
3.5 stars rounded up
March 6, 2023
**I got an e-arc of this book from Entangled Publishing for my honest review**
Mariah Ankenman has done it again. Listen, I would read ANYTHING this author puts out, let's be real. I was just thinking before getting into this book that I was falling out of love with romances. There was nothing grasping my attention enough. But then I started this book and I was reminded why I adore this genre.
I absolutely adored these two characters together and I've been waiting for their story since the first book in this "series." I'm so glad we got their story. Mariah Ankenman just has such a way with making you fall in love with these characters and making their romance fall into place perfectly. I'm not someone who tends to enjoy friends to lover romances. They just don't hit me the same as other ones. But this book just did it for me. I absolutely loved watching these two coming together.
The spice in this book, though. Listen, I'm not someone who enjoys reading sex scenes in romances. They almost always make me cringe. But Mariah Ankenman just has a way with words, I'm telling you. These sexy scenes were *steamy*.
Somehow Mariah can take everything I don't tend to like and wrap it in a nice bow and make me question my own reading taste. I don't know how she does it but I thank her for it still. I cannot wait to read more from her. I am interested to see if the Mile High books continue in this universe or if she ends it here. Either way, I know I'll be reading it for sure.
Mariah Ankenman has done it again. Listen, I would read ANYTHING this author puts out, let's be real. I was just thinking before getting into this book that I was falling out of love with romances. There was nothing grasping my attention enough. But then I started this book and I was reminded why I adore this genre.
I absolutely adored these two characters together and I've been waiting for their story since the first book in this "series." I'm so glad we got their story. Mariah Ankenman just has such a way with making you fall in love with these characters and making their romance fall into place perfectly. I'm not someone who tends to enjoy friends to lover romances. They just don't hit me the same as other ones. But this book just did it for me. I absolutely loved watching these two coming together.
The spice in this book, though. Listen, I'm not someone who enjoys reading sex scenes in romances. They almost always make me cringe. But Mariah Ankenman just has a way with words, I'm telling you. These sexy scenes were *steamy*.
Somehow Mariah can take everything I don't tend to like and wrap it in a nice bow and make me question my own reading taste. I don't know how she does it but I thank her for it still. I cannot wait to read more from her. I am interested to see if the Mile High books continue in this universe or if she ends it here. Either way, I know I'll be reading it for sure.
June 13, 2023
This series is so fun, and I love a good first responder romance. This is the third book in The Mile High Firefighter series by Mariah Ankenman. It follows the Stephanie and Eli story, they have worked together for years and have been friends just as long, but while Eli has always had a crush on Stephanie, she has made it abundantly clear that she does not date anyone she works with. Things get complicated though when they need to team up to win a competition, where they spend a lot of one-on-one time together and things begin to warm up.
This book has some great tropes including forced proximity, friends to lovers. I loved the added reality tv competition to this book. It added such a fun element to the story, it was interesting and exciting. I would have really liked to have read more about it and them competing, but we got a lot of past tense where we heard about it after the fact. I liked that they started out as really close friends, you really saw how they knew each other and the trust between them was amazing. There was a lot of one side flirting, and I would have really liked to see more tension and chemistry from them because it was a little bit of a hard transition believing that they went from just friends to more.
Overall, I found this book to be so fun, and I cheered for Eli and Stephanie the whole time and it was a book that really kept me engaged. I would recommend checking this book out, as well as the whole series.
I received an advanced ebook, via Netgalley. This review is my own honest opinion.
This book has some great tropes including forced proximity, friends to lovers. I loved the added reality tv competition to this book. It added such a fun element to the story, it was interesting and exciting. I would have really liked to have read more about it and them competing, but we got a lot of past tense where we heard about it after the fact. I liked that they started out as really close friends, you really saw how they knew each other and the trust between them was amazing. There was a lot of one side flirting, and I would have really liked to see more tension and chemistry from them because it was a little bit of a hard transition believing that they went from just friends to more.
Overall, I found this book to be so fun, and I cheered for Eli and Stephanie the whole time and it was a book that really kept me engaged. I would recommend checking this book out, as well as the whole series.
I received an advanced ebook, via Netgalley. This review is my own honest opinion.
February 15, 2023
I just love friends to lovers and first responder romances. This one was fun with the Battle of the First Responders game show with the addition of a promotion on the line. Eli Ward, firefighter has been crushing on his co-worker Stephanie Diaz for the entire time they've worked together, four years. He carefully stays in the friend zone because Stephanie has made it clear she doesn't date co-workers. She has a very good reason since she had to transfer from her last station because of a love affair that turned toxic. When they get sent off to be the firefighter team in the competition for charity donation money they spend an intense 2 weeks in each other's pockets.
The problem is their chemistry is off the charts and they succumb to temptation. They decide to keep their relationship secret and it will only last during the competition. They both are vying for the lieutenant promotion as they both want to be chief someday. This presents a huge problem for them. As the events progress it's plain to see they make an excellent team and their chemistry gives them the name Team Steli. Neither one will own up to their relationship beyond friends and teammates. Things come to a head at the end of the competition and both have to do some major soul searching as to what will ultimately make them happy.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The problem is their chemistry is off the charts and they succumb to temptation. They decide to keep their relationship secret and it will only last during the competition. They both are vying for the lieutenant promotion as they both want to be chief someday. This presents a huge problem for them. As the events progress it's plain to see they make an excellent team and their chemistry gives them the name Team Steli. Neither one will own up to their relationship beyond friends and teammates. Things come to a head at the end of the competition and both have to do some major soul searching as to what will ultimately make them happy.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
February 14, 2023
Stephanie Diaz has always dreamed of being a firefighter, setting herself a goal to become the youngest female chief in Denver. In a mainly male profession, she's had to work twice as hard creating a no-nonsense, ballbusting reputation. After a relationship gone wrong in her last job, she's determined never to date a coworker again.
Eli Ward is a third generation firefighter trying to live up to his father's dying wish to follow in his footsteps and become chief himself. Ever since Stephanie joined his station though he's been distracted by his crush on her.
Battle of the first responders is a live web show competition offering money for their station and their favorite charity to the winners. Eli and Stephanie are chosen to compete for the show and the chance at a promotion. As the competition heats up, so does their attraction, but it can only ever be a fling. When they return home, one of them will be the other's boss making a relationship impossible.
This was a unique storyline with a steamy close proximity secret relationship. The banter between the two was fun and flirty. I liked seeing how their different personalities worked together to face the challenges and the competition for the hero award just increased the tension even more.I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Eli Ward is a third generation firefighter trying to live up to his father's dying wish to follow in his footsteps and become chief himself. Ever since Stephanie joined his station though he's been distracted by his crush on her.
Battle of the first responders is a live web show competition offering money for their station and their favorite charity to the winners. Eli and Stephanie are chosen to compete for the show and the chance at a promotion. As the competition heats up, so does their attraction, but it can only ever be a fling. When they return home, one of them will be the other's boss making a relationship impossible.
This was a unique storyline with a steamy close proximity secret relationship. The banter between the two was fun and flirty. I liked seeing how their different personalities worked together to face the challenges and the competition for the hero award just increased the tension even more.I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
February 2, 2023
Poor Eli has a crush on his firefighting gal pal, Stephanie, and now he has to spend a couple weeks sharing a cabin with her while they compete together on a game show, all the while competing against each other for a promotion. (And both have a fierce competitive nature.) He thinks his crush is unrequited, but is it? Stephanie is an independent, strong, caring woman who isn't afraid to work hard for what she wants, in fact she has to work twice as hard as her male counterparts in a male dominate career. Will this drive and determination be the thing that keeps her from taking a chance on Eli? This is a well told story filled with sexual tension. There are laughs. There is more action than your average romcom since the pair are taking part of a new reality game show that involves First Responders and various challenges taking place in the outdoor wilderness. Both characters are lovable and relatable. There are cameos from a few of the characters from previous books in the series (that features the folks from the firehouse.) It's an easy read and reads quickly. There is sexual content that may be more suitable for mature readers. It alternates between POVs.
*I received an ARC of this book from Netgalley.
*I received an ARC of this book from Netgalley.
February 28, 2023
4.5 Stars
This is the third book in the series. I really enjoy this series so much. It has such great characters and I love the sense of humor. Stephanie and Eli work together at the firehouse. Stephanie always has the drive to prove herself in a mans world, but she needs to realize her new crew is nothing like her previous one. Station 42 is full awesome men and women who truly have one another's backs. Eli and Stephanie are going to need that when the compete on the Frist Responders reality show with a promotion between the two on the line as well. This is such a great friends to lovers romance. I just loved the banter between Eli and Stephanie. They had me laughing quite a lot. Stephanie doesn't date co-workers she went down that path before and it ended badly. It's going to be tough to resist the charms of Eli when they are forced together during the competition. This book had me gobbling up the pages. Eli and Stephanie had me hooked. This book does show me why I'm not a huge fan of reality tv though with the need for juicy drama. I did like the friendship Stephanie made during the competition. It just made me happy. Hoping that character gets a book now. A good read you do not want to miss. I can say this book did let all my worries go while I devoured the pages.
This is the third book in the series. I really enjoy this series so much. It has such great characters and I love the sense of humor. Stephanie and Eli work together at the firehouse. Stephanie always has the drive to prove herself in a mans world, but she needs to realize her new crew is nothing like her previous one. Station 42 is full awesome men and women who truly have one another's backs. Eli and Stephanie are going to need that when the compete on the Frist Responders reality show with a promotion between the two on the line as well. This is such a great friends to lovers romance. I just loved the banter between Eli and Stephanie. They had me laughing quite a lot. Stephanie doesn't date co-workers she went down that path before and it ended badly. It's going to be tough to resist the charms of Eli when they are forced together during the competition. This book had me gobbling up the pages. Eli and Stephanie had me hooked. This book does show me why I'm not a huge fan of reality tv though with the need for juicy drama. I did like the friendship Stephanie made during the competition. It just made me happy. Hoping that character gets a book now. A good read you do not want to miss. I can say this book did let all my worries go while I devoured the pages.
March 3, 2023
The chemistry between these two has been building over the first two books in this series. So I was patiently (And impatiently) waiting for this book to come out. And learning who Diaz was inspired by was great and helped me better understand her. (I still would have loved her either way.)
Stephanie Diaz has plenty of goals she'd like to achieve in her firefighter career. It's one of the reasons she works just as hard if not harder than her male counterparts. When she and Ward are chosen for the Battle of the First Responders, she's sure her performance in the competition will help her get a step closer to the available lieutenant position.
She's hoping Ward will take this as seriously as she does. Eli also wants that promotion, he's a legacy fireman and he could really use the prize money to help his mother pay for a procedure her insurance won't cover.
He's had a crush on her since they first met and Stephanie finds herself more aware of Eli. Their chemistry is becoming apparent to the showrunners and the audience at home watching. When they finally give in to their attraction they both agree to keep things casual but that proves difficult when they end up wanting more.
Thank you so much to the author, Entangled and NetGalley for this ARC to review.
Stephanie Diaz has plenty of goals she'd like to achieve in her firefighter career. It's one of the reasons she works just as hard if not harder than her male counterparts. When she and Ward are chosen for the Battle of the First Responders, she's sure her performance in the competition will help her get a step closer to the available lieutenant position.
She's hoping Ward will take this as seriously as she does. Eli also wants that promotion, he's a legacy fireman and he could really use the prize money to help his mother pay for a procedure her insurance won't cover.
He's had a crush on her since they first met and Stephanie finds herself more aware of Eli. Their chemistry is becoming apparent to the showrunners and the audience at home watching. When they finally give in to their attraction they both agree to keep things casual but that proves difficult when they end up wanting more.
Thank you so much to the author, Entangled and NetGalley for this ARC to review.
January 31, 2023
"Like I told you, Cross-stitch is the hobby of the warriors.”
"It’s pretty needlework.”
"it’s repetitive stabbing with a sharp object, and if you tell anyone, I’ll cross-stitch my name into your ass.”
"Property of Stephanie Diaz. I like the sound of that.”
This is the third book in the series and I’ve been patiently waiting for Stephanie and Eli’s story! They are both fire fighters and constantly bicker with one another! What Stephanie doesn’t know is that Eli has been in love with her for years. Stephanie and Eli get the opportunity to compete in a reality show against other first respondents! What Eli and Stephanie didn’t know is that they would have to be sharing a cabin together. I loved all the force proximity in this romance! Not only do they have to share cabin together they also get stranded on a hike and have to take shelter in a cave. That’s when things start getting heated! While this is the third book it can totally be read as a standalone!
Read if you like:
3rd person dual POVs
Workplace romance
Firefighter romance
Forced proximity
Competition romance
Open door romance
Banter for days
Hero falls first
⭐️⭐️⭐️.75
"It’s pretty needlework.”
"it’s repetitive stabbing with a sharp object, and if you tell anyone, I’ll cross-stitch my name into your ass.”
"Property of Stephanie Diaz. I like the sound of that.”
This is the third book in the series and I’ve been patiently waiting for Stephanie and Eli’s story! They are both fire fighters and constantly bicker with one another! What Stephanie doesn’t know is that Eli has been in love with her for years. Stephanie and Eli get the opportunity to compete in a reality show against other first respondents! What Eli and Stephanie didn’t know is that they would have to be sharing a cabin together. I loved all the force proximity in this romance! Not only do they have to share cabin together they also get stranded on a hike and have to take shelter in a cave. That’s when things start getting heated! While this is the third book it can totally be read as a standalone!
Read if you like:
3rd person dual POVs
Workplace romance
Firefighter romance
Forced proximity
Competition romance
Open door romance
Banter for days
Hero falls first
⭐️⭐️⭐️.75
February 20, 2023
The Firefighter’s Dilemma was a totally fun book to read and relax with. The story entertained me so well that I read it in one day.
Main characters, Stephanie and Eli, have been coworkers as firefighters for 4 years. They know they can’t have feelings for each other and continue working at the same Fire Station. Then their chief decides to send them on a reality show together with the warning that he will decide who gets the promotion they both are vying for.
This the first book I have read written by author Mariah Ankenman. I enjoyed her writing style…..the story flow was solid, characters were awesome, humorous moments were great and the steamy parts were certainly hot. I am so looking forward to reading more books written by her. In fact, I am going to read the previous books in this series as soon as I can!
I really liked this book!
If you are in the mood for a sweet, hot, romance read…..you need to read The Firefighter’s Dilemman.
Many thanks to NetGalley, Entangled Publishing and author, Mariah Ankenman, for the opportunity to read this book for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Main characters, Stephanie and Eli, have been coworkers as firefighters for 4 years. They know they can’t have feelings for each other and continue working at the same Fire Station. Then their chief decides to send them on a reality show together with the warning that he will decide who gets the promotion they both are vying for.
This the first book I have read written by author Mariah Ankenman. I enjoyed her writing style…..the story flow was solid, characters were awesome, humorous moments were great and the steamy parts were certainly hot. I am so looking forward to reading more books written by her. In fact, I am going to read the previous books in this series as soon as I can!
I really liked this book!
If you are in the mood for a sweet, hot, romance read…..you need to read The Firefighter’s Dilemman.
Many thanks to NetGalley, Entangled Publishing and author, Mariah Ankenman, for the opportunity to read this book for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
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