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On Call #8
Igniting Vic
Victoria “Vic” Paige thought she was firmly back in the saddle since returning to her job as a firefighter after a three-year hiatus. These past twelve months with her new crew at Station 3 have rebuilt her confidence. That is until they are called to a motel fire where she stumbles onto the scene of a murder, which has her shaken to the core. But a pair of calm blue eyes and the deep composed voice of the first detective on the scene restores her equilibrium.
As a recent transplant from the Denver PD to the smaller Durango force, Detective Bill Evans is enjoying the slower pace. So when he is called to a motel fire, he doesn’t expect it to be the first in a series of gruesome murders, bringing back unwelcome memories. The only high point is finding the familiar, beautiful, blond-haired firefighter on the scene. Despite the heavy workload inevitable with a difficult case like this, he’s determined not to let that stroke of good luck go to waste.
However, when the killer turns the investigation personal, Evans finds himself reconnecting with his former partner, Quint Axton, as he scrambles to keep those he cares about safe.
As a recent transplant from the Denver PD to the smaller Durango force, Detective Bill Evans is enjoying the slower pace. So when he is called to a motel fire, he doesn’t expect it to be the first in a series of gruesome murders, bringing back unwelcome memories. The only high point is finding the familiar, beautiful, blond-haired firefighter on the scene. Despite the heavy workload inevitable with a difficult case like this, he’s determined not to let that stroke of good luck go to waste.
However, when the killer turns the investigation personal, Evans finds himself reconnecting with his former partner, Quint Axton, as he scrambles to keep those he cares about safe.
291 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 22, 2022
128 people are currently reading
131 people want to read
About the author
Freya Barker
83 books1,908 followersUSA Today bestselling author Freya Barker loves writing about ordinary people with extraordinary stories.
Driven to make her books about 'real' people; she creates characters who are perhaps less than perfect, each struggling to find their own slice of happy, but just as deserving of romance, thrills and chills in their lives.
Recipient of the ReadFREE.ly 2019 Best Book We've Read All Year Award for "Covering Ollie, the 2015 RomCon “Reader’s Choice” Award for Best First Book, “Slim To None”, and Finalist for the 2017 Kindle Book Award with “From Dust”, Freya continues to add to her rapidly growing collection of published novels as she spins story after story with an endless supply of bruised and dented characters, vying for attention!
Driven to make her books about 'real' people; she creates characters who are perhaps less than perfect, each struggling to find their own slice of happy, but just as deserving of romance, thrills and chills in their lives.
Recipient of the ReadFREE.ly 2019 Best Book We've Read All Year Award for "Covering Ollie, the 2015 RomCon “Reader’s Choice” Award for Best First Book, “Slim To None”, and Finalist for the 2017 Kindle Book Award with “From Dust”, Freya continues to add to her rapidly growing collection of published novels as she spins story after story with an endless supply of bruised and dented characters, vying for attention!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 154 reviews
November 15, 2022
This was intense! From the first page I was captivated. The scene was grisly and it felt as though I too had stepped into the room with the heroine.
Vic is the type of character that I can totally get behind. She’s tough without being hard and she’s struggling with a lot of life issues. My heart hurt for her so much.
Bill was the perfect partner for Vic. He knew when to step in and he knew when he had to give her her lead. I loved his protective instincts.
While this has a lot of drama, danger and angst, at the heart of it all are these characters and the ability this author has of making them feel very real to me. They are fun and smexy, but each has traits that make them less than ideal but perfect for each other. Ms. Barker reigns supreme when it comes to mature romance.
Dual POV
Safe
Triggers
Steam
Vic is the type of character that I can totally get behind. She’s tough without being hard and she’s struggling with a lot of life issues. My heart hurt for her so much.
Bill was the perfect partner for Vic. He knew when to step in and he knew when he had to give her her lead. I loved his protective instincts.
While this has a lot of drama, danger and angst, at the heart of it all are these characters and the ability this author has of making them feel very real to me. They are fun and smexy, but each has traits that make them less than ideal but perfect for each other. Ms. Barker reigns supreme when it comes to mature romance.
Dual POV
Safe
Triggers
Steam
February 26, 2023
Check out all my reviews at: https://www.avonnalovesgenres.com
IGNITING VIC (On Call Book #8)( Police and Fire: Operation Alpha) by Freya Barker is another exciting romantic suspense and wonderful new couple in the On Call series. While some characters crossover between books, they can be easily read as standalones, but this book does follow the sister and family from Watching Trin, book #7 so I would suggest reading that book first. I have read the entire series and always look forward to Ms. Barker’s mature, intelligent, and sexy heroes and heroines.
After one year back on the job, Victoria “Vic” Paige is feeling secure with her new firefighter crew after a three-year hiatus caring for her father. When they are called out to a motel fire, Vic discovers a horrific murder scene.
Durango Detective Bill Evans is called to investigate the murder. The scene is reminiscent of a gruesome serial killer case he solved while on the Denver PD, but that killer is sitting in prison for life. While the crime is terrible, Bill is glad that he will get to interact with Vic, the beautiful, but intense firefighter who discovered the body. When another victim is found, the police know they will have to stop this killer because he won’t stop on his own.
While Vic is dealing with her father’s declining health and the unwanted attention of a co-worker, Bill is working overtime with all hands-on deck, but both are still finding time to get to know each other. When the killer threatens those close to Bill, he scrambles to find the killer and keep them all safe.
Another wonderful romantic suspense in this On Call series! The serial killer suspense plot and investigation is well paced with an ever increasing sense of dread and a climax that had me glued to the page. Vic and Bill are a mature H/h who believe they are good with their lives where they are at, but as they get to know each other, they find they compliment each other and can rely on each other. The sex scenes are explicit, but not gratuitous and have a believable feel as both are older and know what they want. I started reading this romance and fell right into the story and did not stop until the end.
I highly recommend this gripping romantic suspense, the entire series, and any of this author’s books!
IGNITING VIC (On Call Book #8)( Police and Fire: Operation Alpha) by Freya Barker is another exciting romantic suspense and wonderful new couple in the On Call series. While some characters crossover between books, they can be easily read as standalones, but this book does follow the sister and family from Watching Trin, book #7 so I would suggest reading that book first. I have read the entire series and always look forward to Ms. Barker’s mature, intelligent, and sexy heroes and heroines.
After one year back on the job, Victoria “Vic” Paige is feeling secure with her new firefighter crew after a three-year hiatus caring for her father. When they are called out to a motel fire, Vic discovers a horrific murder scene.
Durango Detective Bill Evans is called to investigate the murder. The scene is reminiscent of a gruesome serial killer case he solved while on the Denver PD, but that killer is sitting in prison for life. While the crime is terrible, Bill is glad that he will get to interact with Vic, the beautiful, but intense firefighter who discovered the body. When another victim is found, the police know they will have to stop this killer because he won’t stop on his own.
While Vic is dealing with her father’s declining health and the unwanted attention of a co-worker, Bill is working overtime with all hands-on deck, but both are still finding time to get to know each other. When the killer threatens those close to Bill, he scrambles to find the killer and keep them all safe.
Another wonderful romantic suspense in this On Call series! The serial killer suspense plot and investigation is well paced with an ever increasing sense of dread and a climax that had me glued to the page. Vic and Bill are a mature H/h who believe they are good with their lives where they are at, but as they get to know each other, they find they compliment each other and can rely on each other. The sex scenes are explicit, but not gratuitous and have a believable feel as both are older and know what they want. I started reading this romance and fell right into the story and did not stop until the end.
I highly recommend this gripping romantic suspense, the entire series, and any of this author’s books!
November 3, 2022
Vic and Bill are a delight. These two have mountains of issues and drama to work through. Great seeing some familiar faces. I really hope Maisy gets a story. Twists and turns, great suspense.
November 13, 2022
What I loved about Bill and Victoria's story is that these two were a real couple. They are older, more mature and have real flaws that an average person can relate to. Both Bill and Vic had the normal human flaws that may make it harder for some to find the right person for their lifestyle.
Bill is a very dedicated police detective. He's very focused and spends more of his time on cases than probably the average detective. Most women would not want to be put second behind that kind of job. Unless he finds someone like Vic. She is just as dedicated her job as a firefighter and she understands the long hours and the devotion to the job. They really made for the perfect match.
I also loved seeing how they both made time to take care of each other despite the demands on their jobs. They made the little moments count and that's important. In a book world full of perfect and beautiful characters, it really is a nice change of pace to read about a normal couple who could be someone you know in real life.
Bill is a very dedicated police detective. He's very focused and spends more of his time on cases than probably the average detective. Most women would not want to be put second behind that kind of job. Unless he finds someone like Vic. She is just as dedicated her job as a firefighter and she understands the long hours and the devotion to the job. They really made for the perfect match.
I also loved seeing how they both made time to take care of each other despite the demands on their jobs. They made the little moments count and that's important. In a book world full of perfect and beautiful characters, it really is a nice change of pace to read about a normal couple who could be someone you know in real life.
November 4, 2022
Wow what a story. The author really gets into the storyline and keeps you on the edge of your seat. We are dealing with a serial killer intent on proving he's smarter than the police and everyone else. I love Vic's character as a female firefighter. And bill, the she describes how he dresses reminded me of Columbo actor. Plenty of action, suspense, heat, danger and HEA.
December 1, 2022
Good. Real good but it had me all over the place.
I had a real good time for the most part and I’m unbelievably grateful for that.
I’ve been in an insanely long book slump and it has been so dang miserable.
It’s a special kind of torture when your a reader and you don’t have a good book waiting for you on stand by when ever the world feels like too much.
Every reader out there knows what I mean. That special type of joy you find only in losing yourself within the pages of a good read. It’s like a comforting hug you feel only in your mind and yet can soothe your whole body and soul.
That said this was comforting and yet torturous all at the same time and not always in a good way.
I’ve lost track of how many of the writers books I’ve read, and I’ve often been deeply frustrated by the things I’ve come to expect in each book.
1. Heroines are usually a bit of a “ tough cookie”, short in stature but big on attitude ( often feeling like attitude just for the sake of it ). Very touchy about even the slightest questioning ( or perceived questioning ) of their skills or abilities.
2. Most stories are like this one, where while it definitely feels like a romance, but the two MC’s barely spend any real time together . While the two are usually some how either officially or unofficially living together by the end of the book, they’ve maybe had one or two brief dates or dinners etc . and are having sex but no real deep and meaningful conversations and very little time together.
In this book I’d say Bill spends almost 90% of his time working ,hey,he’s got a killer to catch but this is supposedly a “ romance “. While “ Vic” /Victoria spends most of her time working or looking after her dad or being assaulted by what turns out to be a bit of a red herring .
3. One of the worst parts of all ( and what put such a HUGE damper on my enjoyment) is knowing after reading so many of Ms.Barkers books the heroine has to be attacked,nearly killed or rescued from being kidnapped at the end of every book.
Every book I’ve read the heroine has to be attacked at the end.
Gah 😫!!!!!
I hate that! I hate knowing it’s coming but I especially hate how it usually happens in such a dumb way. On more than one,when the woman knows her life is in danger ⚠️, and she ALWAYS knows! She’s left alone for some silly reason ( silly when her man is a cop of some kind or a biker etc. and knows she’s in danger)and she ends up being attacked because her dog needs to be walked. Wait what? If I know someone is out to kill me that dog can happily use the floor this time ! And I . Am. Not. Being. Left. Alone! I’m not Kevin! This is NOT “Home Alone”.
It really got me when Vic is blindsided by her attacker at the end. The writer has the cops spinning their wheels the entire story almost ( why?) but while Vic is told to be careful evil monster is fixated on her new bf, she still very stupidly goes off alone . But her father was dying and she was distracted,you say. Yeah,was gonna try and cut her slack for that, that is til I remembered Vic is the one who finds the first body at the beginning of the book. It was supposedly gruesome and horrific and not something she should have forgotten or needed to be warned to be careful about . Knowing what was coming ( most likely) put a real poll over the book at times for me .
Has a really good time over all but didn’t like knowing what to expect in some ways and having the h be a TSTL when it was most important.
I had a real good time for the most part and I’m unbelievably grateful for that.
I’ve been in an insanely long book slump and it has been so dang miserable.
It’s a special kind of torture when your a reader and you don’t have a good book waiting for you on stand by when ever the world feels like too much.
Every reader out there knows what I mean. That special type of joy you find only in losing yourself within the pages of a good read. It’s like a comforting hug you feel only in your mind and yet can soothe your whole body and soul.
That said this was comforting and yet torturous all at the same time and not always in a good way.
I’ve lost track of how many of the writers books I’ve read, and I’ve often been deeply frustrated by the things I’ve come to expect in each book.
1. Heroines are usually a bit of a “ tough cookie”, short in stature but big on attitude ( often feeling like attitude just for the sake of it ). Very touchy about even the slightest questioning ( or perceived questioning ) of their skills or abilities.
2. Most stories are like this one, where while it definitely feels like a romance, but the two MC’s barely spend any real time together . While the two are usually some how either officially or unofficially living together by the end of the book, they’ve maybe had one or two brief dates or dinners etc . and are having sex but no real deep and meaningful conversations and very little time together.
In this book I’d say Bill spends almost 90% of his time working ,hey,he’s got a killer to catch but this is supposedly a “ romance “. While “ Vic” /Victoria spends most of her time working or looking after her dad or being assaulted by what turns out to be a bit of a red herring .
3. One of the worst parts of all ( and what put such a HUGE damper on my enjoyment) is knowing after reading so many of Ms.Barkers books the heroine has to be attacked,nearly killed or rescued from being kidnapped at the end of every book.
Every book I’ve read the heroine has to be attacked at the end.
Gah 😫!!!!!
I hate that! I hate knowing it’s coming but I especially hate how it usually happens in such a dumb way. On more than one,when the woman knows her life is in danger ⚠️, and she ALWAYS knows! She’s left alone for some silly reason ( silly when her man is a cop of some kind or a biker etc. and knows she’s in danger)and she ends up being attacked because her dog needs to be walked. Wait what? If I know someone is out to kill me that dog can happily use the floor this time ! And I . Am. Not. Being. Left. Alone! I’m not Kevin! This is NOT “Home Alone”.
It really got me when Vic is blindsided by her attacker at the end. The writer has the cops spinning their wheels the entire story almost ( why?) but while Vic is told to be careful evil monster is fixated on her new bf, she still very stupidly goes off alone . But her father was dying and she was distracted,you say. Yeah,was gonna try and cut her slack for that, that is til I remembered Vic is the one who finds the first body at the beginning of the book. It was supposedly gruesome and horrific and not something she should have forgotten or needed to be warned to be careful about . Knowing what was coming ( most likely) put a real poll over the book at times for me .
Has a really good time over all but didn’t like knowing what to expect in some ways and having the h be a TSTL when it was most important.
November 22, 2022
This series delivers heat and mystery in equal portions with a dash of humor on the side. Freya Barker, extraordinary author, serves up a delish dish in each book. Although Book 8 in the "On Call" series, "Igniting Vic" exhibits no blandness and excites readers with all the scintillating characters, storyline, and plot twists of a truly original story.
Firefighter Vic (Victoria) Paige discovers a body when responding to a motel fire. New to Durango, Detective Bill Evans responds to the call to investigate the death. He and Vic have seen each other around town, yet this is the first time they've crossed paths. Reporting and recording information about the gruesome murder is no cute meet. But bonding over a coffee maker purchase and sharing their first kiss in a Walmart aisle is the beginning of an interesting over-40 relationship.
They aren't without obstacles. Vic has a threat from her past re-emerging in her life. Bill is thrust into present danger when a second body points to a copycat of the serial killer he put behind bars back in Denver. While their work lives collide, events become dangerously personal as the killer gets too close for comfort. Think you can figure out who the killer is? Give it a try and read a suspenseful romance.
Firefighter Vic (Victoria) Paige discovers a body when responding to a motel fire. New to Durango, Detective Bill Evans responds to the call to investigate the death. He and Vic have seen each other around town, yet this is the first time they've crossed paths. Reporting and recording information about the gruesome murder is no cute meet. But bonding over a coffee maker purchase and sharing their first kiss in a Walmart aisle is the beginning of an interesting over-40 relationship.
They aren't without obstacles. Vic has a threat from her past re-emerging in her life. Bill is thrust into present danger when a second body points to a copycat of the serial killer he put behind bars back in Denver. While their work lives collide, events become dangerously personal as the killer gets too close for comfort. Think you can figure out who the killer is? Give it a try and read a suspenseful romance.
November 30, 2024
What a truly fabulous read. This story has everything in a book that I look for…strong characters, both male and female. A storyline that keeps you on the edge and of course is an emotional rollercoaster. All these are essential to this series and am never disappointed. This storyline has plenty of subplots and characters from different series within Freya’s books to add into the mix. Tucker and Lance are extra characters, and you wonder how each of them will fair throughout the book.
Bill and Vic are a great couple. He’s been a character that’s recent to Durango but has had a solid effect on and around the police department. Vic is a firefighter, from a family of firefighters and recently returned to the area and is also taking care of her father who has dementia and had recently been admitted to a home. There is an obvious attraction and throughout Igniting Vic they give each other strength and support, whilst dealing with some of the horrors they deal with within their work. Another excellent story within the On Call series. I would highly recommend that you read the books in order to understand each character and how their story has evolved, Love them.
Bill and Vic are a great couple. He’s been a character that’s recent to Durango but has had a solid effect on and around the police department. Vic is a firefighter, from a family of firefighters and recently returned to the area and is also taking care of her father who has dementia and had recently been admitted to a home. There is an obvious attraction and throughout Igniting Vic they give each other strength and support, whilst dealing with some of the horrors they deal with within their work. Another excellent story within the On Call series. I would highly recommend that you read the books in order to understand each character and how their story has evolved, Love them.
November 23, 2022
There's no one better out there writing about older couples with a suspenseful kicker than Freya Barker, and I think I would need some sort of therapy for addiction if she ever stops LOL! Igniting Vic surrounds firefighter Victoria (can you say GIRL POWER?) and Bill, a detective. She comes upon the scene of a murder after being called out to a fire, and Vic shows up as the first detective on scene. Holy hell I love fate as you already know it tends to bring the perfect people together. Of course there's chemistry between them, but these two (like all her other MCs) have a maturity about them that keeps the drama low when it comes to developing something. On top of that, that murder scene is only the top of the iceberg so the twists start coming in hot & I end up on the edge of my seat with heart racing. I don't want to talk anymore about this book since it is heavy on suspense, so just do yourself a solid & hit those one click buttons as I HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
November 9, 2022
I Love this book. Igniting Vic - the 8th instalment in the series is everything you want it to be.
Bill & Vic both have a lot of life already lived, but when Bill decides to make his move , he’s not one to hang around. Vic has dedicated hr life to her career and her family, and wasn’t expecting to find somebody like Bill
Their fledgling romance has to combine with 2 emergency services careers and jobs that will always come
First.
Until Bills past and future collide - events that could change
Everything and everyone that he cares about.
A police case that brings together not only previous characters from This series, but also appearances of characters from other series that Freya Barker has written.
It’s like Meeting up with old friends and great to catch up with their lives.
I really hope there is more to come from this series and these characters
Bill & Vic both have a lot of life already lived, but when Bill decides to make his move , he’s not one to hang around. Vic has dedicated hr life to her career and her family, and wasn’t expecting to find somebody like Bill
Their fledgling romance has to combine with 2 emergency services careers and jobs that will always come
First.
Until Bills past and future collide - events that could change
Everything and everyone that he cares about.
A police case that brings together not only previous characters from This series, but also appearances of characters from other series that Freya Barker has written.
It’s like Meeting up with old friends and great to catch up with their lives.
I really hope there is more to come from this series and these characters
November 22, 2022
WOW.....just....WOW!!! Freya Barker continues to amaze me with every single book she writes! Igniting Vic is absolutely THE most suspenseful of the On Call series to date. Vic and Bill's enticing, very real romance is FULL of all the things that I ADORE about Ms. Barker's signature style. I couldn't put it down, NEEDING to find out all the answers to all the questions....and boy, did I NOT see the twists coming in this one!
If you like romantic suspense that keeps you on your toes, with REAL characters that are a little more mature and all the feels you expect from a romance....you MUST pick up this book!!! A word of warning, tho; YOU WILL BE ADDICTED TO THIS AUTHOR'S WRITING so be prepared to binge ALL of her books!!! Consider yourself warned
If you like romantic suspense that keeps you on your toes, with REAL characters that are a little more mature and all the feels you expect from a romance....you MUST pick up this book!!! A word of warning, tho; YOU WILL BE ADDICTED TO THIS AUTHOR'S WRITING so be prepared to binge ALL of her books!!! Consider yourself warned
November 22, 2022
Between the difficulties her family is going through and the demands of her job as a firefighter Vic has her hands full. Bill is there for her at the scene of the fire when she comes across two unwelcome surprises a deceased person and a man from her past who refuses to stay there.
Bill is a police detective who has always been devoted to his career. He is attracted to the fierce and independent personality of Vic and isn’t about to just walk away however keeping her safe may be the biggest challenge when a case from his past brings danger into the present.
The suspense will keep you on edge and the surprises keep on keeping as Bill and Vic prove to be perfect partners both when it comes to life and love.
Bill is a police detective who has always been devoted to his career. He is attracted to the fierce and independent personality of Vic and isn’t about to just walk away however keeping her safe may be the biggest challenge when a case from his past brings danger into the present.
The suspense will keep you on edge and the surprises keep on keeping as Bill and Vic prove to be perfect partners both when it comes to life and love.
November 10, 2022
Another great book in a great series. Every story is a standalone but I love how the characters from previous books mesh with the current one. Vic is a strong woman who still has to work extra hard to prove herself in a traditionally "man's" career. (Just like real life.) Bill is making a place for himself with the Durango PD, as the "new" kid on the block, even though he has years of experience. An old case of his tears it's head and bodies start turning up. It's a race against time to find the killer as the killer sets his sights on Vic. As always, a great read with great characters and lots of action.
November 21, 2022
So I have been waiting for Vic’s story since we met her in Watching Trin.
Vic is a fire fighter who returned to the job after she was out on leave. I loved her strength and the confidence she has in herself, and I also loved her moments of vulnerability.
Bill is a detective working a case that involves a serial killer. I love how Bill is a straight shooter and very in tune with Vic.
I am always amazed by how fresh and new Freya continues to write her stories. This book was filled with everything you expect from her, suspense, romance, camaraderie between her characters and a twist I did not even see coming.
Definitely a five star read for me.
Vic is a fire fighter who returned to the job after she was out on leave. I loved her strength and the confidence she has in herself, and I also loved her moments of vulnerability.
Bill is a detective working a case that involves a serial killer. I love how Bill is a straight shooter and very in tune with Vic.
I am always amazed by how fresh and new Freya continues to write her stories. This book was filled with everything you expect from her, suspense, romance, camaraderie between her characters and a twist I did not even see coming.
Definitely a five star read for me.
November 5, 2022
Wow!!!
I love this series. I also love how it brings in characters from other series that we love.
Bill is a detective and Vic is a firefighter.
They are working on a case that is so horrendous that they need to find the killer yesterday.
Vic is dealing with the fact her father has dementia and had to be placed in a facility. She is also dealing with an ex that can't take no for an answer.
While Vic and Bill are building a relationship, the killer is taunting Bill.
This was one amazing read that I know I will be rereading numerous times.
I love this series. I also love how it brings in characters from other series that we love.
Bill is a detective and Vic is a firefighter.
They are working on a case that is so horrendous that they need to find the killer yesterday.
Vic is dealing with the fact her father has dementia and had to be placed in a facility. She is also dealing with an ex that can't take no for an answer.
While Vic and Bill are building a relationship, the killer is taunting Bill.
This was one amazing read that I know I will be rereading numerous times.
November 22, 2022
I really enjoyed reading Bill and Vic’s story. Loved the way Bill sneaked into her heart past all her walls.
Also liked the crime part of the book and how it unfolded. I am not going to say more because I don’t want to spoil it for anyone.
Just know that along with the rest of Freya Barker’s Police and Fire series this is a must read. I love all the characters and love hearing about them again.
Great read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Also liked the crime part of the book and how it unfolded. I am not going to say more because I don’t want to spoil it for anyone.
Just know that along with the rest of Freya Barker’s Police and Fire series this is a must read. I love all the characters and love hearing about them again.
Great read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 23, 2022
I was so looking forward to this next On Call story and it was well worth the wait :D This is another edge of your seat read, full of twists that surprised me at every turn. The romance between Vic and Bill was wonderful. This isn't an insta-love story. These two busy professionals spent time together, as they could, building a relationship, which I appreciated. Of course, the plot was fab, and engrossing, and a complete mystery to me. Lol! Once again, I've got another book to add to my re-read shelf by this author....and I hope to have many more. Good fun!
November 5, 2022
Ok so this is so far my favorite read of the YEAR!
I have loved ALL the characters from the On Call series, but Bill and Vic are my absolute FAVES!!!
Their relationship is soooo real!
They both have mountains of issues to overcome.
The emotions jump off the pages of this book!
It’s sooooo intriguing! The twists and turns had me griping the edge of my seat the whole time I was reading. I read this in 1 sitting. Absolutely no adulting was done.
I have loved ALL the characters from the On Call series, but Bill and Vic are my absolute FAVES!!!
Their relationship is soooo real!
They both have mountains of issues to overcome.
The emotions jump off the pages of this book!
It’s sooooo intriguing! The twists and turns had me griping the edge of my seat the whole time I was reading. I read this in 1 sitting. Absolutely no adulting was done.
November 20, 2022
A fast-paced, intense, serial killer mystery
Three excellent plot lines are woven together to create a fabulous, well-thought-out romantic suspense story. It's also great reading about adult relationships and this author is the best at it.
This was my first book of this series and can easily be read as a standalone. However, I will be going back to enjoy the previous ones.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Three excellent plot lines are woven together to create a fabulous, well-thought-out romantic suspense story. It's also great reading about adult relationships and this author is the best at it.
This was my first book of this series and can easily be read as a standalone. However, I will be going back to enjoy the previous ones.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 5, 2022
I always enjoy returning to this Author’s “On Call” series and all the characters we’ve came to know and love. Vic was a great female lead…strong and resilient. Bill was a perfect match for her, Alpha in his own right but supportive to her independent character. The storyline kept me entertained and the suspense was on point. Hoping his daughter Maisy gets her own story in the future.
November 3, 2022
This book is really suspenseful in the best possible way. Victoria and Bill's relationship is authentic. I definitely love this story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 8, 2022
Wow is all I can say. This book is the latest in the on call series. I don’t know how she does it, but each book gets better and better. I absolutely loved Bill and Vic together. There was romance, suspense and twists I didn’t see coming. Now, whose book is next??? I can’t wait for more!!
November 27, 2022
I really enjoyed this book. The 2 characters consisting of Vic, a just returned to being a firefighter and Bill, a detective. They find themselves at a motel fire where a body has been found.
I liked that there were two mature characters in the story with not just hot chemistry but a deeper understanding of what a fellow member of emergency services needs. They seemed to have there own way of communicating, even if it was silent. We could see how much Bill cared. I think now was the time to prove it as the murders become personal and her past comes back to haunt her. A really great story from start to finished with the odd characters in from from some other books.
I liked that there were two mature characters in the story with not just hot chemistry but a deeper understanding of what a fellow member of emergency services needs. They seemed to have there own way of communicating, even if it was silent. We could see how much Bill cared. I think now was the time to prove it as the murders become personal and her past comes back to haunt her. A really great story from start to finished with the odd characters in from from some other books.
November 23, 2022
Victoria “Vic” Paige returned to work after taking care of her father for three years. It is now a year later and things seeming to be going okay when she comes across a brutal murder where the victim was burned alive. Detective Bill Evans is on the case.
November 14, 2022
4.5 stars
Vic and Bill's story was a great thrill ride with a healthy dose of emotion and spice thrown in!
Vic is a woman working in a man's world as a firefighter, and she has faced her share of issues as a result including one man who just couldn't take no for an answer. When she stumbles onto the scene of a horrific crime that shakes her, the last thing she needs is that jerk showing up out of the blue- or the focus of Detective Bill Evans who sees what is going on a little too clearly. Thanks to the response of her previous engine crew after she pressed charges against the jerk, she is in no rush to expose herself to more of the same treatment, but Bill is not a man who intends to look the other way.
After his intense focus on his work cost him his marriage, Bill has quietly kept to himself and recently moved to the area from Denver to join the ranks of the Durango PD. Vic may try to downplay her beauty and blend in, but he sees her quite clearly and knows that he will have to work at it if he wants to have a chance to get to know her better. He never expects one of his old cases from Denver to come roaring back to life in the form of a possible copycat, but it soon becomes clear that Bill and everyone he cares about may be in the crosshairs of this killer.
Igniting Vic delivers everything I have come to expect and love from this author's stories: great action and suspense as the mystery unfolds along with laughter, steam and the occasional tearjerking moment too.
ARC provided by author
Vic and Bill's story was a great thrill ride with a healthy dose of emotion and spice thrown in!
Vic is a woman working in a man's world as a firefighter, and she has faced her share of issues as a result including one man who just couldn't take no for an answer. When she stumbles onto the scene of a horrific crime that shakes her, the last thing she needs is that jerk showing up out of the blue- or the focus of Detective Bill Evans who sees what is going on a little too clearly. Thanks to the response of her previous engine crew after she pressed charges against the jerk, she is in no rush to expose herself to more of the same treatment, but Bill is not a man who intends to look the other way.
After his intense focus on his work cost him his marriage, Bill has quietly kept to himself and recently moved to the area from Denver to join the ranks of the Durango PD. Vic may try to downplay her beauty and blend in, but he sees her quite clearly and knows that he will have to work at it if he wants to have a chance to get to know her better. He never expects one of his old cases from Denver to come roaring back to life in the form of a possible copycat, but it soon becomes clear that Bill and everyone he cares about may be in the crosshairs of this killer.
Igniting Vic delivers everything I have come to expect and love from this author's stories: great action and suspense as the mystery unfolds along with laughter, steam and the occasional tearjerking moment too.
ARC provided by author
November 18, 2022
I was happy to read that Bill and Vic were a more mature couple. I also appreciated that the description of Bill was not an 8 pack wielding sex on a stick type. Bill was not out of shape. I was just glad he wasn't a gym rat or a stereotypical donut eating cop.
I liked that Vic was a strong, independent, intelligent, caring firefighter. She had to contend with some bad seeds in her department, but was respected for the job she did.
This book was intense from start to finish. I mean, hold your breath kind of intense. Waiting for the serial killer to make his next move kind of intense. Wondering about the identity of the killer, who might be the next victim, how the victims were being chosen and why kind of intense.
On top of all of that, Vic and Trin had to deal with an aging parent that added a whole other layer of tension to the story.
There were some slightly gruesome moments, thankfully interspersed with Bill and Vic's burgeoning romance. I did appreciate that there was very little angst in that area.
Another thing about this book, and some of the author's other books as well, I get to keep reading about familiar characters from other series.
I will be honest. I had to put this book down for a minute, take a deep breath, and regroup. If you enjoy romantic suspense/romantic thriller type books, you should enjoy this one.
I voluntarily read and reviewed the Advanced Reader Copy of this book received via Booksprout.
I liked that Vic was a strong, independent, intelligent, caring firefighter. She had to contend with some bad seeds in her department, but was respected for the job she did.
This book was intense from start to finish. I mean, hold your breath kind of intense. Waiting for the serial killer to make his next move kind of intense. Wondering about the identity of the killer, who might be the next victim, how the victims were being chosen and why kind of intense.
On top of all of that, Vic and Trin had to deal with an aging parent that added a whole other layer of tension to the story.
There were some slightly gruesome moments, thankfully interspersed with Bill and Vic's burgeoning romance. I did appreciate that there was very little angst in that area.
Another thing about this book, and some of the author's other books as well, I get to keep reading about familiar characters from other series.
I will be honest. I had to put this book down for a minute, take a deep breath, and regroup. If you enjoy romantic suspense/romantic thriller type books, you should enjoy this one.
I voluntarily read and reviewed the Advanced Reader Copy of this book received via Booksprout.
November 11, 2022
Igniting Vic (Police and Fire:
Operation Alpha; On Call #8)
By Freya Barker
Author Freya Barker went major suspense on us in Igniting Vic and it was Fantastic!
This story started with a bang and the fireworks kept exploding as their story evolved.
Victoria Paige (Vic) knows what it’s like to be a woman in a male dominated job. You have to win your crew over and then you wonder will they have your back when you need them. The day the Station 3 crew was called to a fire in a small hotel started out normally and the last thing she thought she would find is a dead body.
Bill Evans has recently moved down from Denver to Durango, he’s divorced with a grown daughter and he likes being a Detective. He ended up at the same motel where Station 3 was still putting out the fire except he was there for the body. It’s this body that begins the ride that is the relationship that forms between Vic and Bill as well as one of the best romantic suspense stories I’ve read.
The twists and turns are wild! Adding on to that Vic is dealing with an older father with dementia and an ex-colleague who won’t take no for an answer.
I flew through this book because I needed to know what was going to happen and how this would end!
Author Freya Barker has done it again; Igniting Vic gets all the stars I have to give!
Operation Alpha; On Call #8)
By Freya Barker
Author Freya Barker went major suspense on us in Igniting Vic and it was Fantastic!
This story started with a bang and the fireworks kept exploding as their story evolved.
Victoria Paige (Vic) knows what it’s like to be a woman in a male dominated job. You have to win your crew over and then you wonder will they have your back when you need them. The day the Station 3 crew was called to a fire in a small hotel started out normally and the last thing she thought she would find is a dead body.
Bill Evans has recently moved down from Denver to Durango, he’s divorced with a grown daughter and he likes being a Detective. He ended up at the same motel where Station 3 was still putting out the fire except he was there for the body. It’s this body that begins the ride that is the relationship that forms between Vic and Bill as well as one of the best romantic suspense stories I’ve read.
The twists and turns are wild! Adding on to that Vic is dealing with an older father with dementia and an ex-colleague who won’t take no for an answer.
I flew through this book because I needed to know what was going to happen and how this would end!
Author Freya Barker has done it again; Igniting Vic gets all the stars I have to give!
November 21, 2022
Igniting Vic is the eighth book in Freya Barker’s On Call Police and Fire: Operation Alpha series, and it can be read as a stand-alone title. Freya Barker has now cemented herself a spot on my must-read list for romantic suspense authors, and I look forward to each new release as I slowly make my way through her backlist.
Vic is a very strong woman, and Bill is a slightly older man who is unapologetic for who he is at this stage in his life. I liked that they were both older, wiser, and far from perfect yet had enough respect for each other’s careers that the limited time together wasn’t rife with frustration or jealousy on either part.
The pace wasn’t all frantic as some romantic suspense stories tend to be. It ebbed and flowed as it built toward the story arc and climax. I had no idea who the ultimate villain was, as the mystery was quite complex. I had a sneaking suspicion as to the villain’s relationship with a side character, but I didn’t quite figure out all of the elements on my own. (A good thing for this long-time romantic suspense junkie. Nothing worse than a predictable outcome.) There were several threads to untangle in the plot, and I felt that the author did a fantastic job weaving them in such a way that I couldn’t quite make that last puzzle piece fit, which effectively kept me anxiously turning the pages, unable to walk away until I finished.
Vic is a very strong woman, and Bill is a slightly older man who is unapologetic for who he is at this stage in his life. I liked that they were both older, wiser, and far from perfect yet had enough respect for each other’s careers that the limited time together wasn’t rife with frustration or jealousy on either part.
The pace wasn’t all frantic as some romantic suspense stories tend to be. It ebbed and flowed as it built toward the story arc and climax. I had no idea who the ultimate villain was, as the mystery was quite complex. I had a sneaking suspicion as to the villain’s relationship with a side character, but I didn’t quite figure out all of the elements on my own. (A good thing for this long-time romantic suspense junkie. Nothing worse than a predictable outcome.) There were several threads to untangle in the plot, and I felt that the author did a fantastic job weaving them in such a way that I couldn’t quite make that last puzzle piece fit, which effectively kept me anxiously turning the pages, unable to walk away until I finished.
November 11, 2024
4.5 star
I was pulled right into this story. The story has laughs, suspense, twists & turns, secrets, kidnapping, pain, and heartbreak.
If you have not read the below I would recommend reading those books(s) first
Burning for Autumn (On Call #1)
Covering Ollie (On Call #2)
Tracking Tahlula (Police and Fire: Operation Alpha)
Edge Of Reason (Arrow's Edge MC #1)
Absolving Blue (Police and Fire: Operation Alpha) (On Call #4)
Edge Of Darkness (Arrow's Edge MC #2)
Revealing Annie (On Call #5)
Edge Of Tomorrow (Arrow's Edge MC #3)
Dissecting Meredith (On Call #6)
Edge Of Fear (Arrow's Edge MC #4)
Watching Trin (On Call #7)
Edge Of Reality (Arrow's Edge MC #5)
This is Vic and Bill’s story. Vic is finally back to firefighting. As she gets into the hang of things with her job a killer is on the loose and making havoc with her peacefulness. Bill gets called to a crime scene that takes him back to a case from the past. He caught the killer, and that man is still in prison, but the crimes are the same. He meets Vic and is drawn to her right away. But he also has to solve a crime. The fall hard and fast but when the killer targets her can he get to her before she is hurt or worse taken from him forever?
I felt I was able to connect with the characters and the story was a great read.
I highly recommend this book.
I was pulled right into this story. The story has laughs, suspense, twists & turns, secrets, kidnapping, pain, and heartbreak.
If you have not read the below I would recommend reading those books(s) first
Burning for Autumn (On Call #1)
Covering Ollie (On Call #2)
Tracking Tahlula (Police and Fire: Operation Alpha)
Edge Of Reason (Arrow's Edge MC #1)
Absolving Blue (Police and Fire: Operation Alpha) (On Call #4)
Edge Of Darkness (Arrow's Edge MC #2)
Revealing Annie (On Call #5)
Edge Of Tomorrow (Arrow's Edge MC #3)
Dissecting Meredith (On Call #6)
Edge Of Fear (Arrow's Edge MC #4)
Watching Trin (On Call #7)
Edge Of Reality (Arrow's Edge MC #5)
This is Vic and Bill’s story. Vic is finally back to firefighting. As she gets into the hang of things with her job a killer is on the loose and making havoc with her peacefulness. Bill gets called to a crime scene that takes him back to a case from the past. He caught the killer, and that man is still in prison, but the crimes are the same. He meets Vic and is drawn to her right away. But he also has to solve a crime. The fall hard and fast but when the killer targets her can he get to her before she is hurt or worse taken from him forever?
I felt I was able to connect with the characters and the story was a great read.
I highly recommend this book.
November 22, 2022
Electrifying!
This read contained all the things I adore about this author’s writing!
Extraordinary characters from ordinary folk, strong independent heroines, and hot alpha males who are older wiser and tired of nonsense.
This read was on a stratospheric level of intensity and suspense that had me glued to the pages!
Forget any chores or adulting activities, I was too busy reading this slow burn, steamy suspenseful crime thriller.
How do these adjectives even go in the same sentence? Well, this author masterfully created a solid story that are equal parts heavy on the romance and passion intertwined with a suspenseful crime thriller.
This installment really took me on a nail biting journey as detective Bill Evans finds himself trying to solve a series of gruesome bone chilling murders that seem too close for comfort. Even though it’s book 8 in the On Call series it can certainly be read and enjoyed as a standalone.
Being attracted to firefighter Vic Paige may not be in the best interest when these murders take a sinister twist…but the heart wants what the heart wants!
Well paced, suspenseful and exciting, going along their journey as Bill and Vic navigate through their undenying attraction while trying to solve these crimes was a yummy treat for the senses!
This read contained all the things I adore about this author’s writing!
Extraordinary characters from ordinary folk, strong independent heroines, and hot alpha males who are older wiser and tired of nonsense.
This read was on a stratospheric level of intensity and suspense that had me glued to the pages!
Forget any chores or adulting activities, I was too busy reading this slow burn, steamy suspenseful crime thriller.
How do these adjectives even go in the same sentence? Well, this author masterfully created a solid story that are equal parts heavy on the romance and passion intertwined with a suspenseful crime thriller.
This installment really took me on a nail biting journey as detective Bill Evans finds himself trying to solve a series of gruesome bone chilling murders that seem too close for comfort. Even though it’s book 8 in the On Call series it can certainly be read and enjoyed as a standalone.
Being attracted to firefighter Vic Paige may not be in the best interest when these murders take a sinister twist…but the heart wants what the heart wants!
Well paced, suspenseful and exciting, going along their journey as Bill and Vic navigate through their undenying attraction while trying to solve these crimes was a yummy treat for the senses!
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