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West Coast Forensics #3
Real Risk
It's possible they're a match but first the two men will have to survive trial by fire.
Chief Flynn is fighting smoke and flames, tirelessly protecting the lives and property of his fellow islanders from yet another spate of fires.
Arson or accident?
When injury puts him on the sidelines, West Coast Forensics Arson Investigator Kimball Frye offers his assistance. Frye is The Most Irritating Man in the World, a condescending know-it-all who rubs Devon the wrong way.
Or does he?
Decades ago an arsonist stole his family from him since then Frye has devoted his life to putting them behind bars. At forty-nine, he doesn't believe in permanent relationships, instead preferring the company of interchangeable younger men.
Is the arsonist trying to shift the blame onto Devon, or trying to kill him? If it's the latter it just might work.
Feeling the pull of attraction to Devon as the firebug grows bolder is inconvenient. Will Kimball listen to his heart or his head? The younger men he's always preferred are nothing like the solid, stalwart Fire Chief.
Real Risk is the third in the West Coast Forensics series and can be read as a standalone but may be enjoyed more if you read the Real Trouble and Real Danger first. It is dual POV following Devon Flynn and Kimball Frye as they bicker and fumble their way to their happily ever after.
M/M Romantic Suspense
Chief Flynn is fighting smoke and flames, tirelessly protecting the lives and property of his fellow islanders from yet another spate of fires.
Arson or accident?
When injury puts him on the sidelines, West Coast Forensics Arson Investigator Kimball Frye offers his assistance. Frye is The Most Irritating Man in the World, a condescending know-it-all who rubs Devon the wrong way.
Or does he?
Decades ago an arsonist stole his family from him since then Frye has devoted his life to putting them behind bars. At forty-nine, he doesn't believe in permanent relationships, instead preferring the company of interchangeable younger men.
Is the arsonist trying to shift the blame onto Devon, or trying to kill him? If it's the latter it just might work.
Feeling the pull of attraction to Devon as the firebug grows bolder is inconvenient. Will Kimball listen to his heart or his head? The younger men he's always preferred are nothing like the solid, stalwart Fire Chief.
Real Risk is the third in the West Coast Forensics series and can be read as a standalone but may be enjoyed more if you read the Real Trouble and Real Danger first. It is dual POV following Devon Flynn and Kimball Frye as they bicker and fumble their way to their happily ever after.
M/M Romantic Suspense
9 pages, Audible Audio
First published April 21, 2022
113 people are currently reading
208 people want to read
About the author
Elle Keaton
52 books548 followersElle Keaton is a writer, avid reader, and amateur cat-wrangler. Her love of romance novels has led her to a life of creating her own happy ever afters. She is the author of the best selling series' Shielded Hearts and Veiled Intentions. Keaton hails from the Pacific Northwest, where she lives with her husband and cats.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 181 reviews
October 8, 2022
There is just something about the setting, Piedras Island off the coast of Washington, as well as Elle Keaton's warm, wonderful, sexy as all get out, characters that keeps drawing me back to her Shielded Hearts, Veiled Intentions and West Coast Forensics series. The characters all overlap from each of the series so it's very hard to tell sometimes where one series stops and another begins, but it really doesn't matter because it is a great story that you just don't want to end. Fire chief Devon Flynn had no real interest in anything but protecting his island with his small fire department that was composed mostly of volunteers, but West Coast Forensics chief officer, Kimbal Frye soon changed all that. Someone is setting fires on the island, one of which injured Chief Devon Flynn...which instantly involved Kimball's Frye's organization to find the fire bug. That he volunteered to stay and help the injured fire chief only helped to further solidify their budding relationship that neither man was sure what to do with...or even if they really wanted to do anything or did they want to do everything? Devon and Kimball are similar in so many ways, but so very opposites in many others. I loved their bantering about everything from Devon's empty cupboards to what they were going to watch on TV. When Devon is accused of setting the fires, Kimball becomes his main protector and number one ally. They proved that opposites sometimes really do attract.
May 8, 2022
3.5 stars
I would have given a full 4 stars, but the ending felt rushed. Loved Kimball and Devon, though, so I rounded up.
I would have given a full 4 stars, but the ending felt rushed. Loved Kimball and Devon, though, so I rounded up.
April 16, 2022
I went to bed around 8:30 and figured I could get halfway through the book before it was time to go to sleep. Needless to say I ended up going to sleep at 1:30am having finished the book! The lack of sleep was worth it though.
This book hit all my buttons. When asked my favourite trope I normally say grumpy/sunshine but the truth is my true favourite is grumpy/not-as-grumpy, and this fits the bill perfectly - I adored these two making a sport out of pushing each other's buttons as they try to deny their connection and their grudging respect for each other's jobs and competence. Gah, such much fun. And this was a slow, slow burn with two sexy middle-aged men who have convinced themselves that their career is really all they need. Check, check, check.
The mystery element really made this a page-turner, but Devon and Kimball getting their happy ever was super satisfying, it felt real and earned.
Stars: 4.5
< ARC provided by GRR and this is my honest review >
This book hit all my buttons. When asked my favourite trope I normally say grumpy/sunshine but the truth is my true favourite is grumpy/not-as-grumpy, and this fits the bill perfectly - I adored these two making a sport out of pushing each other's buttons as they try to deny their connection and their grudging respect for each other's jobs and competence. Gah, such much fun. And this was a slow, slow burn with two sexy middle-aged men who have convinced themselves that their career is really all they need. Check, check, check.
The mystery element really made this a page-turner, but Devon and Kimball getting their happy ever was super satisfying, it felt real and earned.
Stars: 4.5
< ARC provided by GRR and this is my honest review >
May 2, 2022
Did I start again in the third book of a series? Yes I did. Do I care? Nopeeeeeee. 🙃🙃🙃🙃
This one was nice, the main guys are actually in their 40s and 50s so that was refreshing and also... THEY ACTED LIKE IT!!!! Totally knew for me, loved it.
The crime was fun to follow, the guys were run to be with, the whole town and the other characters were sweet and fun.
I enjoyed it and I'm excited to get Foester's book. Not gonna read the first two, but the next one I sure will!
This one was nice, the main guys are actually in their 40s and 50s so that was refreshing and also... THEY ACTED LIKE IT!!!! Totally knew for me, loved it.
The crime was fun to follow, the guys were run to be with, the whole town and the other characters were sweet and fun.
I enjoyed it and I'm excited to get Foester's book. Not gonna read the first two, but the next one I sure will!
July 10, 2022
3.5-4 stars
Liked this more than book 2. I think that these read like episodes of “Criminal Minds” and it reminds me I need to catch up on that haha it’s been years
Devon and Kimball were great for each other, they challenged the way they go about things and they complimented each other perfectly.
Can’t wait for Fosters book in August!
Liked this more than book 2. I think that these read like episodes of “Criminal Minds” and it reminds me I need to catch up on that haha it’s been years
Devon and Kimball were great for each other, they challenged the way they go about things and they complimented each other perfectly.
Can’t wait for Fosters book in August!
July 25, 2024
This is a slowburn romance but I didn't mind. Likeable MCs in their 50s, didn't mind that either. Good banter and the story this time focus around a possible arsonist on Piedres. 3.5 stars rounding up ⭐⭐⭐⭐
April 30, 2022
Mystery and good romance.
I really liked it
I really liked it
April 22, 2022
I’ve read this author before but not this series. This is a mm contemporary story of enemies to lovers. The glossary at the beginning of the book was handy. This is Fire Chief Devon Flynn’s story with Owner of WCF Kimball as his love interest. Great side characters and a great parallel story of an arsonist. I’ll read more from this author. I received an ARC for a honest review.
April 10, 2022
A really intense read.
Their banter and back and forth dialogue brings a sense of humor to the serious subject of arson. Devon is the no-nonsense fire chief of Piedras Island who has willingly shouldered the responsibility of the island's citizens saftey. When fires occur too often he suspects arson but he needs investigative help. And this is where Kimbell, as co-owner of WTF & lead investigator, re-enters this book as each has shown up in previous stories in this series. Both of these men have the opportunity to rekindle their physical attraction but in slow burn actions. But first things first; is there only one culprit? Damage to property and citizens intensify and even Devon suffers injuries more than once resulting in Kimball becoming his nurse after the last serious injury. Small town politics are also told; from the mayor's son Mick Collison aka/Jr. to the mayor himself. Both Devon and Kimball have tragic past family histories that weigh heavy on their hearts but developing a intimate relationship lends each to learn how important love is in their lives. Characters, namely Devon's sister Birdy, make appearances. Anyone who hasn't kept up to date with these people could be lost so for these readers starting at the first book would be helpful in understanding their importance of inclusion in this book. The arson elements also lends bona fide credit to this book's theme. All in all a very pleasurable read and one that I'm voluntarily and honestly reviewing.
Their banter and back and forth dialogue brings a sense of humor to the serious subject of arson. Devon is the no-nonsense fire chief of Piedras Island who has willingly shouldered the responsibility of the island's citizens saftey. When fires occur too often he suspects arson but he needs investigative help. And this is where Kimbell, as co-owner of WTF & lead investigator, re-enters this book as each has shown up in previous stories in this series. Both of these men have the opportunity to rekindle their physical attraction but in slow burn actions. But first things first; is there only one culprit? Damage to property and citizens intensify and even Devon suffers injuries more than once resulting in Kimball becoming his nurse after the last serious injury. Small town politics are also told; from the mayor's son Mick Collison aka/Jr. to the mayor himself. Both Devon and Kimball have tragic past family histories that weigh heavy on their hearts but developing a intimate relationship lends each to learn how important love is in their lives. Characters, namely Devon's sister Birdy, make appearances. Anyone who hasn't kept up to date with these people could be lost so for these readers starting at the first book would be helpful in understanding their importance of inclusion in this book. The arson elements also lends bona fide credit to this book's theme. All in all a very pleasurable read and one that I'm voluntarily and honestly reviewing.
August 15, 2022
When a grumbly and self-sufficient fire chief and a prickly and commitment-fobic fire investigator are forced together by an ongoing investigation (and a meddling sister), what can go wrong? Absolutely nothing, instead everything is perfectly right in this story! I love how this series always combines the romance and mystery part, and I especially loved how the two older and set in their ways MCs reluctantly start to thaw and then warm up to the idea of a relationship!
April 10, 2022
When Kimball and Devon team up to solve a series of arsons on Piedras, they drive each other crazy. But, Kimball begins to realize his easy relationships with younger men don’t challenge him and make him happy like Devon does. For Devon, being cared for is a change from being everyone else’s hero.
I did find the crime solving a little less central in this book, which I missed, but it was entertaining nevertheless.
I love that these are two adult men, with established lives and careers, that make room for each other. Birdy is my favourite character in the series, and Claribel is a close second.
I received this ARC for free from the author through a review site, and voluntarily provide my honest review.
I did find the crime solving a little less central in this book, which I missed, but it was entertaining nevertheless.
I love that these are two adult men, with established lives and careers, that make room for each other. Birdy is my favourite character in the series, and Claribel is a close second.
I received this ARC for free from the author through a review site, and voluntarily provide my honest review.
May 12, 2022
Welcome back to Piedras Island with Real Risk by Elle Keaton. We vacationed here with the complex residents in the Hamarsson And Dempsey series and came back for more of this close knit coastal town with Real Trouble and Real Danger. Real Risk is the third in Keaton’s spinoff West Coast Forensics series. This time the arson activity that has been shadowed for a while is at the forefront, putting the residents at “real risk”. The town, with its old and new inhabitants, comprises a quirky bunch, and the suspenseful mysteries from these collections intertwine, but each can be read as a standalone.
Kimball Frye, the founder, co-owner and lead fire investigator of West Coast Forensics (WCF), is about to turn fifty. Relationship phobic, he has the reputation of filling his nights with twinks who he enjoys, but whom he will never become attached to. Devon, the Piedras County fire chief, is forty he doesn’t have time for dating, and while not in the closet per se, until the right person comes along there is no sense announcing his sexuality.
Being slightly older myself, Real Risk ticked a bunch of boxes for me. Devon and Kimball think their careers are all they need. Being witness to their painfully slow burn romance melted my heart, taking me away from reality for just a bit. The banter between Devon and Kimball is glorious and allows them to hide their attraction behind walls. Their ability to push each other’s buttons provide humor for those looking in but, unbeknownst to them, will be the wrecking ball that shatters their defenses.
Small town politics play a significant role. The diversity of the Piedras Island Fire Department, consisting of women, Korean descendents, and Devon’s indigenous background, doesn’t make a difference; when homes or businesses are up in flames, they show up to battle for them. But, it sure makes a difference to the traditional white male mayor who is out to protect and conceal the past.
As the arson activity escalates, the mystery becomes intense putting the residents in danger, with Devon being one of the first. There has always been a physical attraction between Devon and Kimball, which becomes so much more when Devon is hurt on the job and he and Kimball (who has been called in to assist with the ongoing arson in Piedras) are forced to share Devon’s cottage… his sanctuary.
The reappearance of many characters, and the revelation surrounding the perpetrator – or is it perpetrators? – brings this close knit community together. And the suspenseful and deadly climax to the events allow Devon and Kimball to realize their new found take on life when the person who gets and completes them is at Real Risk… what a perfect title!
Kimball Frye, the founder, co-owner and lead fire investigator of West Coast Forensics (WCF), is about to turn fifty. Relationship phobic, he has the reputation of filling his nights with twinks who he enjoys, but whom he will never become attached to. Devon, the Piedras County fire chief, is forty he doesn’t have time for dating, and while not in the closet per se, until the right person comes along there is no sense announcing his sexuality.
Being slightly older myself, Real Risk ticked a bunch of boxes for me. Devon and Kimball think their careers are all they need. Being witness to their painfully slow burn romance melted my heart, taking me away from reality for just a bit. The banter between Devon and Kimball is glorious and allows them to hide their attraction behind walls. Their ability to push each other’s buttons provide humor for those looking in but, unbeknownst to them, will be the wrecking ball that shatters their defenses.
Small town politics play a significant role. The diversity of the Piedras Island Fire Department, consisting of women, Korean descendents, and Devon’s indigenous background, doesn’t make a difference; when homes or businesses are up in flames, they show up to battle for them. But, it sure makes a difference to the traditional white male mayor who is out to protect and conceal the past.
As the arson activity escalates, the mystery becomes intense putting the residents in danger, with Devon being one of the first. There has always been a physical attraction between Devon and Kimball, which becomes so much more when Devon is hurt on the job and he and Kimball (who has been called in to assist with the ongoing arson in Piedras) are forced to share Devon’s cottage… his sanctuary.
The reappearance of many characters, and the revelation surrounding the perpetrator – or is it perpetrators? – brings this close knit community together. And the suspenseful and deadly climax to the events allow Devon and Kimball to realize their new found take on life when the person who gets and completes them is at Real Risk… what a perfect title!
May 16, 2022
I love this series, and its wider world. Kimball and Devon are great together, if only they can get past their stubbornness and preconceptions of each other. I enjoyed catching up with characters from previous books, and the references and cameos from the author’s other series. The mystery of the arsonist and the rising tension as things get dangerous and personal had me sitting up late needing to make sure these two survived to get their HEA.
I think Ryder has the perfect comment in describing Kimball and Devon’s relationship – two alpha males which he’s totally going to ship. I love Ryder.
I liked how both men lost family at a young age, and how this story is very much about family and found family. I loved how, even once they fall for each other, they still stay very much in character. I liked the reason Kimball became an arson investigation. It fits well with his character, and I knew his history would become very real again at some point.
Birdy totally rocks. Look out when she becomes mayor. Marshall has been one of my favourites since he first appeared too. I love how everyone is already convinced Kimball and Devon are a couple before they work it out. Claribel steals every scene she’s in, and so does Fenrir. I’m very happy that Foster is getting his own book. I like him, and I already wanted Dutch’s story when I met him in an earlier book in the series. Bonus points for Adam’s cameo and the source of the beer at The Kiln.
The island is a character in its own right, and adds to the atmosphere and community feel of the story. The ice cream flavours from the Jewel Creamery sound amazing.
I loved the mystery and suspense part of the story, kept trying to figure out the identity of the arsonist, and knew he’d make a move against either Kimball, Devon, or both at some point. That scene was tense and exciting, and I had to keep reading. The twist of who is behind the fires is clever, and I liked how it ties back into previous books.
Their HEA is perfect and very them. I’m looking forward to more in this series, and catching up with them in future books.
I think Ryder has the perfect comment in describing Kimball and Devon’s relationship – two alpha males which he’s totally going to ship. I love Ryder.
I liked how both men lost family at a young age, and how this story is very much about family and found family. I loved how, even once they fall for each other, they still stay very much in character. I liked the reason Kimball became an arson investigation. It fits well with his character, and I knew his history would become very real again at some point.
Birdy totally rocks. Look out when she becomes mayor. Marshall has been one of my favourites since he first appeared too. I love how everyone is already convinced Kimball and Devon are a couple before they work it out. Claribel steals every scene she’s in, and so does Fenrir. I’m very happy that Foster is getting his own book. I like him, and I already wanted Dutch’s story when I met him in an earlier book in the series. Bonus points for Adam’s cameo and the source of the beer at The Kiln.
The island is a character in its own right, and adds to the atmosphere and community feel of the story. The ice cream flavours from the Jewel Creamery sound amazing.
I loved the mystery and suspense part of the story, kept trying to figure out the identity of the arsonist, and knew he’d make a move against either Kimball, Devon, or both at some point. That scene was tense and exciting, and I had to keep reading. The twist of who is behind the fires is clever, and I liked how it ties back into previous books.
Their HEA is perfect and very them. I’m looking forward to more in this series, and catching up with them in future books.
February 26, 2025
Kimball et Devon avec un Culomètre à 🍑
J'adore cette série et j'adore cette autrice et ce tome-ci me conforte dans cette idée !
Kimball, 49 ans, est le patron du West Coast Forensics et spécialisé dans les feux criminels, après que toute sa famille fut tuée par un incendie des années auparavant. Il aime les hommes jeunes, très jeunes et vit sa vie sans jamais se poser. Quand on demande son aide sur l'île de Pietras par rapport à une série d'incendies qui semblent être allumés par une même personne, il va se retrouver à collaborer et habiter avec Devon Flynn, le chef des pompiers de Pietras.
Des hommes de plus de 40 ans, voilà ce dont j'ai besoin dans ma vie de lectrice de romance, on n'en a vraiment pas assez mais je savais que je pouvais compter sur Elle Keaton pour cela.
Kimball et Devon sont deux hommes complètement différents : là où le premier virevolte dans sa vie sentimentale et est extraverti, le second est plus solitaire, très cliché du mec de petite ville investi dans sa communauté tout en aimant la solitude dans sa maison. Quand Kimball va débarquer dans sa maison et dans sa vie, Devon va être complètement chamboulé. Kimball va investir sa vie, sa cuisine et va prendre une place considérable. Si au début, ils ne sont que de simples connaissances, ils vont ensuite se rapprocher peu à peu en développant quelque chose de plus. J'ai beaucoup aimé la complicité entre les deux hommes, Kimball parle souvent son penchant pour les partenaires avec 20 ans de moins, on comprend vite que c'est juste un moyen pour ne pas avoir d'attache.
La romance va également être soutenue par la recherche du pyromane, des différents problèmes de Pietras que nous avons pu voir se développer à travers les tomes précédents et l'évolution des différents personnages de la série. Comme pour tous ses romans, l'autrice nous offre un univers très complet sans nous en lasser. Et j'aime toujours autant.
Bref, c'est encore un roman qui m'a pris et qui renforce mon attachement à la plume et à l'univers de Elle Keaton.
J'adore cette série et j'adore cette autrice et ce tome-ci me conforte dans cette idée !
Kimball, 49 ans, est le patron du West Coast Forensics et spécialisé dans les feux criminels, après que toute sa famille fut tuée par un incendie des années auparavant. Il aime les hommes jeunes, très jeunes et vit sa vie sans jamais se poser. Quand on demande son aide sur l'île de Pietras par rapport à une série d'incendies qui semblent être allumés par une même personne, il va se retrouver à collaborer et habiter avec Devon Flynn, le chef des pompiers de Pietras.
Des hommes de plus de 40 ans, voilà ce dont j'ai besoin dans ma vie de lectrice de romance, on n'en a vraiment pas assez mais je savais que je pouvais compter sur Elle Keaton pour cela.
Kimball et Devon sont deux hommes complètement différents : là où le premier virevolte dans sa vie sentimentale et est extraverti, le second est plus solitaire, très cliché du mec de petite ville investi dans sa communauté tout en aimant la solitude dans sa maison. Quand Kimball va débarquer dans sa maison et dans sa vie, Devon va être complètement chamboulé. Kimball va investir sa vie, sa cuisine et va prendre une place considérable. Si au début, ils ne sont que de simples connaissances, ils vont ensuite se rapprocher peu à peu en développant quelque chose de plus. J'ai beaucoup aimé la complicité entre les deux hommes, Kimball parle souvent son penchant pour les partenaires avec 20 ans de moins, on comprend vite que c'est juste un moyen pour ne pas avoir d'attache.
La romance va également être soutenue par la recherche du pyromane, des différents problèmes de Pietras que nous avons pu voir se développer à travers les tomes précédents et l'évolution des différents personnages de la série. Comme pour tous ses romans, l'autrice nous offre un univers très complet sans nous en lasser. Et j'aime toujours autant.
Bref, c'est encore un roman qui m'a pris et qui renforce mon attachement à la plume et à l'univers de Elle Keaton.
April 25, 2022
4.5 stars…I really enjoyed this third book in the West Coast Forensics series it was nice to read a book with two mature MCs. It gives an author the chance to stretch their wings as there are different dynamics and emotional issues to explore with this dynamic. Keaton does a great job of transitioning of hostile to friends to lovers in this book.
The set up in this book involves a series of arsons which Piedras Fire Chief Devon Flynn is dealing with and the help offered by Kimball Frye, one of the owners of WCF, which brings him to the island. Throw in interfering younger sister, a hostile mayor, some island troublemakers, and frustration over the difficulty of the case and there are a lot of moving parts pushing in on both the suspense storyline and the romance storyline.
Keaton does a great job with all of the elements, juggling all the balls efficiently and balancing both storylines well while also staying true to characters we already know in this universe. The suspense elements had me on the edge of my seat and holding my breath (literally holding my breath…I got dizzy!) The romance elements were mostly low angst which was a good choice as the suspense provided enough drama. I liked reading a mature romance without a lot of the romance cliches like miscommunication or martyrdom which so often make me nuts.
My only disappointment was in the conclusion. I thought it wrapped up a bit too swiftly and all off page. I wanted to see confrontation especially with the main antagonist. I was left wondering what the motivations of a couple characters were. There were some elements introduced that were never followed up on. I loved the bulk of the story and the romance but I felt a bit of a let down in the conclusion. I’m looking forward to the next book and hoping maybe we get some more closure?
**I voluntarily read an arc and this is my unbiased opinion.**
The set up in this book involves a series of arsons which Piedras Fire Chief Devon Flynn is dealing with and the help offered by Kimball Frye, one of the owners of WCF, which brings him to the island. Throw in interfering younger sister, a hostile mayor, some island troublemakers, and frustration over the difficulty of the case and there are a lot of moving parts pushing in on both the suspense storyline and the romance storyline.
Keaton does a great job with all of the elements, juggling all the balls efficiently and balancing both storylines well while also staying true to characters we already know in this universe. The suspense elements had me on the edge of my seat and holding my breath (literally holding my breath…I got dizzy!) The romance elements were mostly low angst which was a good choice as the suspense provided enough drama. I liked reading a mature romance without a lot of the romance cliches like miscommunication or martyrdom which so often make me nuts.
My only disappointment was in the conclusion. I thought it wrapped up a bit too swiftly and all off page. I wanted to see confrontation especially with the main antagonist. I was left wondering what the motivations of a couple characters were. There were some elements introduced that were never followed up on. I loved the bulk of the story and the romance but I felt a bit of a let down in the conclusion. I’m looking forward to the next book and hoping maybe we get some more closure?
**I voluntarily read an arc and this is my unbiased opinion.**
May 16, 2022
4.25 Stars!
Real Risk is the third installment in the West Coast Forensics series, and for maximum enjoyment, it needs to be read in order.
Kimball Frye—one of the owners of West Coast Forensics and their arson investigator, and Fire Chief Devon Flynn's bane of his existence—goes to Piedras at Birdie's request to help Devon investigate a series of fires that have been going on for a long time, much to Devon's chagrin, especially after Birdie invites Kimball to stay at Devon's house for the duration of his stay in Piedras. They bond through Kimball's insistence on cooking for Devon and himself, Devon teasing Kimball about his penchant to hook up with younger men, and later when Kimball takes care of Devon after a work accident.
Kimball is in his 50's and Devon in his 40's, and while Devon couldn't stand Kimball at first, this quickly changes and they become good friends. There's an underlying simmer of attraction growing between them, but it takes a while to come to fruition. Theirs is a very slow-burn romance, but it was refreshing that there was very little drama once they decided to give it a go. They fit really well together and it was great to see them banter and become friends before lovers.
The case was the culmination of the arson arc that has been followed in the Veiled Intentions and West Coast Forensic series. It was intriguing and action-packed and I was thrilled when some of the bad guys got what was coming to them.
I enjoyed Real Risk, although the first half of the book dragged a bit for my taste, the second part more than made up for it, though. I really liked Kimball and Devon and catching up with the rest of the WFC and Piedras crew. I am already looking forward to Foster and Dutch's book, it sounds interesting. Very recommendable!
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
Real Risk is the third installment in the West Coast Forensics series, and for maximum enjoyment, it needs to be read in order.
Kimball Frye—one of the owners of West Coast Forensics and their arson investigator, and Fire Chief Devon Flynn's bane of his existence—goes to Piedras at Birdie's request to help Devon investigate a series of fires that have been going on for a long time, much to Devon's chagrin, especially after Birdie invites Kimball to stay at Devon's house for the duration of his stay in Piedras. They bond through Kimball's insistence on cooking for Devon and himself, Devon teasing Kimball about his penchant to hook up with younger men, and later when Kimball takes care of Devon after a work accident.
Kimball is in his 50's and Devon in his 40's, and while Devon couldn't stand Kimball at first, this quickly changes and they become good friends. There's an underlying simmer of attraction growing between them, but it takes a while to come to fruition. Theirs is a very slow-burn romance, but it was refreshing that there was very little drama once they decided to give it a go. They fit really well together and it was great to see them banter and become friends before lovers.
The case was the culmination of the arson arc that has been followed in the Veiled Intentions and West Coast Forensic series. It was intriguing and action-packed and I was thrilled when some of the bad guys got what was coming to them.
I enjoyed Real Risk, although the first half of the book dragged a bit for my taste, the second part more than made up for it, though. I really liked Kimball and Devon and catching up with the rest of the WFC and Piedras crew. I am already looking forward to Foster and Dutch's book, it sounds interesting. Very recommendable!
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
April 16, 2022
I recieved an ARC and this is my honest review.
I think that this is a series that is just getting stronger and stronger. I loved how independent Kimball and Devon were and how, through time, their lives just slowly meshed together. There weren't any extremes, it wasn't full of drama with one having to massively compromise - they gradually became good friends and then eventually more. The chemistry between the pair was great and I loved the banter they had. Devon was so funny with how he teased Kimball, there were some definite laugh out loud moments.
I loved all the secondary characters that made a reappearance in this book; it's clearly such a close knit community and yet there's always more to learn and more people to meet. I can't wait to learn more about Devon's friend Foster and I was so excited to hear that his book is next! Overall, this is a great MM romance with a good amount of action and suspense. It could work as a standalone but it's definitely better if you know the series because the secondary characters and their motives just make a lot more sense. For me, this is my favourite in the series so far and it has to be 5 stars as I was hooked and couldn't put it down!
I think that this is a series that is just getting stronger and stronger. I loved how independent Kimball and Devon were and how, through time, their lives just slowly meshed together. There weren't any extremes, it wasn't full of drama with one having to massively compromise - they gradually became good friends and then eventually more. The chemistry between the pair was great and I loved the banter they had. Devon was so funny with how he teased Kimball, there were some definite laugh out loud moments.
I loved all the secondary characters that made a reappearance in this book; it's clearly such a close knit community and yet there's always more to learn and more people to meet. I can't wait to learn more about Devon's friend Foster and I was so excited to hear that his book is next! Overall, this is a great MM romance with a good amount of action and suspense. It could work as a standalone but it's definitely better if you know the series because the secondary characters and their motives just make a lot more sense. For me, this is my favourite in the series so far and it has to be 5 stars as I was hooked and couldn't put it down!
April 20, 2022
I've read all of the books set on Piedras Island so far and I'd recommend reading at least the first in this and the preceding series to get context of who's who both on the island, in Skagit and in the West Coast Forensics team. It's worth it, though - they're all good reads.
One of the reasons I like this book so much is that it centres on older characters. There's still a bit of an age gap, but it's a nice change to read about men in their late 30s and late 40s. Here we have Devon Flynn, Chief of the Piedras Island Fire Department and Kimball Frye, co-founder of WCF. I don't know that I'd exactly call them enemies, but there's definitely friction from when they've had professional dealings in the past. I really like how Kimball turns caregiver when Devon is injured on a call and both men have a bit of a personal growth journey in terms of how they approach relationships.
As for the investigation in this novel, Devon's been looking into a spate of fires set deliberately across the island, but he's no closer to finding the culprit so Kimball steps in to help here, too. It's a solid enough plot to serve as a backdrop for Kimball and Devon getting together, though it's not that difficult to guess whodunit.
Real Risk is another great addition to the West Coast Forensics series. It's 4* from me.
An ARC was provided by GRR. This is my honest review.
One of the reasons I like this book so much is that it centres on older characters. There's still a bit of an age gap, but it's a nice change to read about men in their late 30s and late 40s. Here we have Devon Flynn, Chief of the Piedras Island Fire Department and Kimball Frye, co-founder of WCF. I don't know that I'd exactly call them enemies, but there's definitely friction from when they've had professional dealings in the past. I really like how Kimball turns caregiver when Devon is injured on a call and both men have a bit of a personal growth journey in terms of how they approach relationships.
As for the investigation in this novel, Devon's been looking into a spate of fires set deliberately across the island, but he's no closer to finding the culprit so Kimball steps in to help here, too. It's a solid enough plot to serve as a backdrop for Kimball and Devon getting together, though it's not that difficult to guess whodunit.
Real Risk is another great addition to the West Coast Forensics series. It's 4* from me.
An ARC was provided by GRR. This is my honest review.
November 12, 2022
Now this is how a story with older MCs should be written!
Devon (40ish) the Fire Chief on Piedras Island is assisted by Kimball (50) co-founder of West Coast Forensics in investigating a spate of fires on the island.
Neither is that interested in the other. Devon because he thinks Kimball is high handed and Kimball because Devon is about as far from a twink as you can get!
When Devon is injured, Kimball, despite himself, comes to the island to look after him as well as to help solve the arsons.
Seeing these two discover their grudging attraction, never, not once, steeped in bullshit was just a delight. A further delight was two older MCs bring written as real people. Not half dead. Not all wrinkled even though they are past 35. Not suffering from some chronic condition of age, in middle age. What a relief!
This whole book was a joy for me to read. I have liked this authors work a lot and am loving being back on Piedras Island again
Devon (40ish) the Fire Chief on Piedras Island is assisted by Kimball (50) co-founder of West Coast Forensics in investigating a spate of fires on the island.
Neither is that interested in the other. Devon because he thinks Kimball is high handed and Kimball because Devon is about as far from a twink as you can get!
When Devon is injured, Kimball, despite himself, comes to the island to look after him as well as to help solve the arsons.
Seeing these two discover their grudging attraction, never, not once, steeped in bullshit was just a delight. A further delight was two older MCs bring written as real people. Not half dead. Not all wrinkled even though they are past 35. Not suffering from some chronic condition of age, in middle age. What a relief!
This whole book was a joy for me to read. I have liked this authors work a lot and am loving being back on Piedras Island again
April 22, 2022
Real Risk is an excellent addition to the West Coast Forensics series and it is well written, gritty, emotional, fast paced, hilarious, has an intriguing mystery, some surprising twists, the characters are wonderful and I really enjoyed it. Devon and Kimball are complete opposites who love to push each others buttons and I love how snarky and annoying they are to each other. They are also very dedicated and competent men who see the best in each other as they spend more time together. I like how their relationship evolves and how supportive their friends and Devon's sister are. There is some danger as well as they work together to stop an arsonist that is causing havoc in Devon's home town and trying to discredit him. The secondary characters are amazing, the ending is great and I can't wait to read the next book in this exciting series.
I received a copy of this book from Neon Rainbow ARC Reviews, and this is my honest review.
I received a copy of this book from Neon Rainbow ARC Reviews, and this is my honest review.
April 22, 2022
Wow!! Seriously fantastic story!! Devon is the Fire Chief on Piedras Island. Kimball is a co-owner of West Coast Forensics and arson investigator. Birdy, Devon’s sister, calls in Kimball when a rash of fires start on the island. Both of these men were so stubborn, I just wanted to smack them!! They start as friends and forge a connection and have serious chemistry! I seriously loved their banter!! The mystery of who’s setting the fires surprised me! This is one of those stories where it helps to have read the previous books in the series. Overall, a fantastic read! It hooked me and didn’t let me go! The story was really well written, the pacing was smooth, highly recommend. I am voluntarily leaving a review form an advanced copy that I received. My reviews are solely based on my thoughts and opinions.
April 21, 2022
Grumpy small town fire chief with a big heart and big leagues arson investigator with analytical mind and a past wounds he doesn't like to talk about... Neither believes that a real relationship and HEA is somewhere in their future and set in their ways they aren't looking for one. Danger brings them together...
I loved the slow burn, bickering, banter, mystery and the natural progression of the relationship. I'm a big fan of this series which is a spin-off of Veiled intentions series and set in the same universe. In theory this book can be read as a standalone but since the characters from previous books play significant roles in this one I highly recommend that you start with Veiled intentions which is one of my favourite series of all time.
I loved the slow burn, bickering, banter, mystery and the natural progression of the relationship. I'm a big fan of this series which is a spin-off of Veiled intentions series and set in the same universe. In theory this book can be read as a standalone but since the characters from previous books play significant roles in this one I highly recommend that you start with Veiled intentions which is one of my favourite series of all time.
April 22, 2022
Finding your equal is life changing. This is a wonderful next book in this series with a focus on Devon and Kimball. I really enjoyed the maturity and self awareness of both of these guys. There was growth and character reveals that kept the reader engaged and rooting for our MC's.
The story-line brought together drama, mystery, romance and a solid investigation that kept me involved and reading the first to last page of this story.
Great Story!! Highly Recommend!
This is book three of the West Coast Forensics and for most enjoyment please read in sequence. These characters have developed over the course of the series.
The story-line brought together drama, mystery, romance and a solid investigation that kept me involved and reading the first to last page of this story.
Great Story!! Highly Recommend!
This is book three of the West Coast Forensics and for most enjoyment please read in sequence. These characters have developed over the course of the series.
April 23, 2022
This book is loaded with mystery and excitement. The heroes may not exactly be enemies but they aren’t too fond of each other either. Both professionals in similar fields so, naturally, they work closely at times. This is where it gets interesting not to mention the arson involved. The story is very engaging, it keeps you reading and the love story is an added bonus. The book combines both the mysterious arson culprit and the love story to capture the reader’s attention and keep them completely invested. I’m enjoyed this series tremendously. I voluntarily reviewed an arc of this book.
April 24, 2022
Thankful for the glossary at the beginning of the pages as their are quite a few names to keep track of. I am reading this out of order as well. It’s not entirely necessary to read this in order, but I won’t say it’s not helpful.
This one was a slow burn book featuring two men in their 40’s who are determined to maintain their focus on their careers and not in a relationship. Let’s just say Cupid had other plans. 😂
Side note: really liked the cast of secondary characters and the dynamic between Devon and Kimball.
*ARC provided and I have given my honest and voluntary review.*
This one was a slow burn book featuring two men in their 40’s who are determined to maintain their focus on their careers and not in a relationship. Let’s just say Cupid had other plans. 😂
Side note: really liked the cast of secondary characters and the dynamic between Devon and Kimball.
*ARC provided and I have given my honest and voluntary review.*
April 12, 2022
This was a super fun and engaging read! The thing I love most about Elle Keaton books are the characters, amazing job creating characters who are funny and snarky but also have heart, kindness and intelligence. The dialogue and snarky banter is top notch here, very humorous but not mean or over done. Devon and Kimball are very competent in their work, but cannot help themselves when it comes to pushing each other’s buttons. I was drawn into their story from the very start. There is also an excellent mystery to be solved while the two fall for each other. Very intriguing with great tension - really well crafted. I loved this couple, excellent story, well developed MCs, and amazing chemistry. Highly recommend Devon & Kimball❤️
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
April 17, 2022
I feel like a lot of my enjoyment of this book is firmly rooted in nostalgia for how long I've been reading this series. Piedras and Skagit are pretty familiar to me now and it's always satisfying to see characters get a HEA.
The relationship between Devon and Kimball is gorgeous, they are both older and set in their ways, confident in themselves and this allows them to push each other out of their comfort zones.
I wish the mystery hadn't been quite so neatly tied up, but that's a personal preference.
Obviously, I think you'll get more out of this book if you've at least read the Veiled Intentions series (although I started from the start with the Sheiled Hearts series, back when it was called Accidental Roots, and you will see MC's from this series popping up in the Veiled Intentions and West Coast Forensics series). It's dual POV third person, low to medium heat with high focus on story.
I received a copy of this book from the author and I have chosen to leave an honest review.
The relationship between Devon and Kimball is gorgeous, they are both older and set in their ways, confident in themselves and this allows them to push each other out of their comfort zones.
I wish the mystery hadn't been quite so neatly tied up, but that's a personal preference.
Obviously, I think you'll get more out of this book if you've at least read the Veiled Intentions series (although I started from the start with the Sheiled Hearts series, back when it was called Accidental Roots, and you will see MC's from this series popping up in the Veiled Intentions and West Coast Forensics series). It's dual POV third person, low to medium heat with high focus on story.
I received a copy of this book from the author and I have chosen to leave an honest review.
April 21, 2022
Real Risk by Elle Keaton is Book 3 in the West Coast Forensics series. Devon, the Fire Chief on Piedras Island calls on Kimball a specialist arson investigator to assist in solving a number of arsons that have occurred on the island.
This is an interesting tale of the two men working together to solve the cases but also living temporarily in the same house. While they respect each other’s talents the living arrangement brings with it some headbutting which slowly changes to mutual attraction.
Elle has a real talent for mixing a crime mystery with a romance between the leading characters and neither diminishes the other to provide a really enjoyable story.
This is an interesting tale of the two men working together to solve the cases but also living temporarily in the same house. While they respect each other’s talents the living arrangement brings with it some headbutting which slowly changes to mutual attraction.
Elle has a real talent for mixing a crime mystery with a romance between the leading characters and neither diminishes the other to provide a really enjoyable story.
April 17, 2022
Watching Kimball and Devon interact is so much fun– their chemistry is incredibly strong, and watching it spark in snarky banter, irritation that thinly masks attraction, and grudging respect for each others’ competence is all kinds of rewarding for readers. They try to get under each others’ skin in such obviously caring and downright sweet ways: Devon takes pictures of Kimball in moments when he’s looking adorably human and Kimball cooks for Devon while pretending to judge him for his non-food-snob tendencies. It’s super obvious to anyone but the two of them that they’re not actually antagonizing each other, they’re taking care of each other, and it’s good and so much fun to watch their connection deepen amidst all the eye rolling and masked sweetness. There’s also, it should be said, plenty of drama, intrigue, and danger as a backdrop, as the investigation that they’ve both been drawn into has twists, turns, and peril. These guys might just be my favorite couple in the series yet, and as an added bonus, we get to see plenty of familiar characters from previous (and hopefully future) books too. Well worth a read.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
April 10, 2022
Devon is the Fire Chief of Piedras Island. He has a mystery to solve. Someone is setting fires on his island. Things are starting to get really active and he doesn't have a clue who is the arsonist. Kimball Frye, co-owner of West Coast Forensics has offered his help. When Devon is seriously injured while saving a young man's life in a building fire, he's told he has to be off his fractured leg for six weeks. Kimball volunteers to keep an eye on Devon. Devon is bemoaning the loss of his privacy but enjoying how easy it is to tease Kimball. Kimball, who lost his entire family in a house fire, years ago, set by an arsonist, is still plagued with occasional nightmares. Will these two be able to figure who is setting the fires before someone loses their life? Can they figure out if they each has what it takes to make a relationship work? Only time will tell and exactly how much time until the next fire is set?
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