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Coffee Shop #7
Smoke and Fire
Dahlia:
I can be many things (barista, karaoke legend, impromptu-actress, whatever), but a famous author I am not.
Which makes it even weirder when a guy named Bastian rushes into my coffee shop and wants me to pretend to be him, a famous romance author hidden under a female pen name.
Um, what?
No thanks.
Except . . . I can’t deny something is charming about his brooding reclusiveness, or maybe that’s just the sexy scent of smoke that follows him everywhere. My obsessive love of hashtags clearly annoys him, but it doesn’t stop him from begging me for help either. This guy is desperate.
When everything goes up in flames, we’re left to deal with the wreckage.
Together.
Bastian:
The last thing I want to do is ask for help, particularly from a dynamo like Dahlia. She has so much energy and I’m not sure what to do with it.
But I’m about to lose everything.
While the mountains outside of Pineville burn and my HotShot crew and I frantically try to save the town, my hidden career is about to explode.
And I need that career.
Dahlia is the simplest answer to my problems, even though I don’t like the questions she asks or the answers that come.
Then the fire encroaches on the mountains near town and Dahlia is in danger. I can’t help but rush to save her. Because on the other side of those flames, she’s saving me. In more ways than I could have ever imagined.
And where there’s smoke, there’s fire.
Smoke And Fire is a clean, contemporary romance (but not religious) with a little sizzle and spice and a guaranteed happily-ever-after. It’s the seventh book in the Coffee Shop Series. This book can be read as a standalone, but maximum enjoyment comes from reading the series from the beginning.
I can be many things (barista, karaoke legend, impromptu-actress, whatever), but a famous author I am not.
Which makes it even weirder when a guy named Bastian rushes into my coffee shop and wants me to pretend to be him, a famous romance author hidden under a female pen name.
Um, what?
No thanks.
Except . . . I can’t deny something is charming about his brooding reclusiveness, or maybe that’s just the sexy scent of smoke that follows him everywhere. My obsessive love of hashtags clearly annoys him, but it doesn’t stop him from begging me for help either. This guy is desperate.
When everything goes up in flames, we’re left to deal with the wreckage.
Together.
Bastian:
The last thing I want to do is ask for help, particularly from a dynamo like Dahlia. She has so much energy and I’m not sure what to do with it.
But I’m about to lose everything.
While the mountains outside of Pineville burn and my HotShot crew and I frantically try to save the town, my hidden career is about to explode.
And I need that career.
Dahlia is the simplest answer to my problems, even though I don’t like the questions she asks or the answers that come.
Then the fire encroaches on the mountains near town and Dahlia is in danger. I can’t help but rush to save her. Because on the other side of those flames, she’s saving me. In more ways than I could have ever imagined.
And where there’s smoke, there’s fire.
Smoke And Fire is a clean, contemporary romance (but not religious) with a little sizzle and spice and a guaranteed happily-ever-after. It’s the seventh book in the Coffee Shop Series. This book can be read as a standalone, but maximum enjoyment comes from reading the series from the beginning.
314 pages, Paperback
First published October 22, 2021
About the author
Katie Cross
181 books823 followersMy world revolves around my husband (who is a major hottie), my precious kids, my Vizsla’s who act like children, and the mountains.
I wear hiking boots instead of heels when I need to feel powerful, and on a bad day, I love a weightlifting workout. Actually, I love it on a good day.
I don’t eat bread because my thyroid doesn’t like it, although there are days I miss it. Especially ciabatta. Sweet potatoes are kind of my thing. Cookies too.
I write because I never stopped.
Author of The Network Series, The Dragonmaster Trilogy, and The Coffee Shop Series.
Email me at kcrosswriting@gmail.com
I wear hiking boots instead of heels when I need to feel powerful, and on a bad day, I love a weightlifting workout. Actually, I love it on a good day.
I don’t eat bread because my thyroid doesn’t like it, although there are days I miss it. Especially ciabatta. Sweet potatoes are kind of my thing. Cookies too.
I write because I never stopped.
Author of The Network Series, The Dragonmaster Trilogy, and The Coffee Shop Series.
Email me at kcrosswriting@gmail.com
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
May 5, 2022
This book was interesting. I always think it's a little funny when authors write about authors. This has an opposites attract vibe going on, and it had this constant tension throughout the book, whether that's from a looming wildfire, family tension, or romantic tension. There is a small amount of bad language, but the romance is clean.
November 3, 2021
Once again Katie Cross has written another winner!!! I love the complexity of the characters. Bastian is the epitome of a strong, mountain man. He’s a hotshot firefighter who puts his life on the line to fight wild fires. He also has a tender side that takes on the responsibility for his father suffering from dementia and his sister who has special needs. The soft side of this gentle giant is heartwarming. The love of Bastian demonstrates for his sister is admirable. The pain and sorrow Bastian suffers when he visits his father is gut wrenching.
Dahlia is another complex character. When she comes to Pineville after a broken romance, her self esteem is in the tank. She leaves everything she has fought for behind. Sells all her stuff, cashed in her savings and buys an RV to figure out what is next in her life. That takes guts and a strong character.
The relationship between Bastian and Dahlia is so slow and curious. Toxic at first but by the middle of the book they develop a deeper friendship. By the end they realize they just might complement each other and make each other whole.
Katie’s attention to detail in the wildfire sequences is a testament to the responsibility to accuracy of her character. Reading the epilogue Katie explains how the knowledge of wildfires came to her.
Once again, this is my favorite until I read the next one! 😉
Dahlia is another complex character. When she comes to Pineville after a broken romance, her self esteem is in the tank. She leaves everything she has fought for behind. Sells all her stuff, cashed in her savings and buys an RV to figure out what is next in her life. That takes guts and a strong character.
The relationship between Bastian and Dahlia is so slow and curious. Toxic at first but by the middle of the book they develop a deeper friendship. By the end they realize they just might complement each other and make each other whole.
Katie’s attention to detail in the wildfire sequences is a testament to the responsibility to accuracy of her character. Reading the epilogue Katie explains how the knowledge of wildfires came to her.
Once again, this is my favorite until I read the next one! 😉
June 8, 2022
Dahlia works at the Frolicking Moose and does not believe in romance. One of her friends puts her onto a series which she says is absolutely fantastic and written by an author with just one name — Jess. She starts reading and is hooked. Bastian is a wildfire firefighter and author. But what types of books does he write? That is a mystery. But he is in desperate need of an assistant to handle social media, emails etc. It completely does his head in. He chooses Dahlia and she accepts. A dangerous fire. A glut of emails. Crazy questions. A stalker perhaps. An accident. A beautiful cat. Pre-launch jitters. An agent. A shock visitor. A very sick sister. A father with dementia. Fire getting bigger. A crazy woman. Unrequited love. Masses of women. A coffee shop full of women. Horses in danger. Have to get them out. Truths come out. A searing kiss. A fire put out. A new life and lots of love.
November 2, 2021
Life in Pineville heats up, again! Dahlia, Bastian and the Frolicking Moose take front and center stage in this story. The Coffee Shop series continues to deliver romance along with portrayals of real life traumas, issues and concerns. Katie pulls in her knowledge of being an author and living through her own experiences with smoke and fire (although this book isn’t about her!). As an aged reader, I found the dialogue (spoken and thought) in the first half of the book a bit repetitious, then the second half of the book drew me in to the heart of the storyline. It’s another good read in the Coffee Shop series.
September 6, 2025
This is another adorable book in the Coffee Shop series. This time we get to find out about Dahlia, a bubbly, free-spirited young woman who’s working in the Frolicking Moose coffee shop, and Bastian, who is a wildland firefighter who writes books on the side. They both bring some baggage, as is true for just about everybody in life, but as is typical in this series, they work through their baggage as they become closer and closer. I love this book! I liked the addition of a text message format for certain sections of certain chapters as Dahlia and Bastian were not always together in Pikeville because of his job.
October 26, 2021
This book is probably, in my opinion the least realistic of the series, but I absolutely loved it. Have a history of being a firefighter and battling brush, which is nothing compared to the fire the hotshots face, gives me a true appreciation of their hard work. I also still dream of being a published author, so this book hit super close to home. I absolutely loved the altered emphasis on getting things done on a checklist as far as times in life. Loved this one Katie! Thank you so much for writing it.
October 29, 2021
This is the 7th book in the Coffee Shop Series; while it's a stand-alone novel, I'd recommend reading the other books first because some of the characters in this book were introduced in earlier books.
I have loved every book I've read that's Katie Cross has written, and this one is no exception. Not only is it a sweet romance with memorable (and quirky) supporting characters, I learned a lot about firefighting and the struggles of the firefighters as well as their loved ones. I really didn't want this book to end!!!
I have loved every book I've read that's Katie Cross has written, and this one is no exception. Not only is it a sweet romance with memorable (and quirky) supporting characters, I learned a lot about firefighting and the struggles of the firefighters as well as their loved ones. I really didn't want this book to end!!!
January 3, 2022
WOW! I loved this book so very much. The way Bastian and Dahlia had to set aside their past traumas and be vulnerable was amazing and so relatable. Many of us have things that make us “broken,” and yet our “broken” selves are what make us human enough to connect with others. I loved the cameos from former Coffee Shop Series characters. I loved the way the town of Pineville came together. The plot line coming from a wildland firefighters perspective, along with an authors perspective was such an interesting take on a clean romance. Fantastic read!
January 23, 2022
It was such a sweet romance. "Could that sort of brightness be shared? Could she illuminate the dark places in me?" I swooned. Dahlia was definitely the brightness that Bastian needed. There's a reason opposites attract, it's like finding your missing puzzle piece. It was interesting to read their relationship grow mostly through text and video messages and video calls. It's always fun watching authors get creative with how their characters interact. It does lead to more internal dialog than conversations but Katie Cross kept it fun. This series legitimately is my favorite.
October 25, 2021
I love this book so much, felt connected to the story and characters instantly. So much fun, suspense, tears, hope, I felt all the feels that make up a great adventure, exploration and the way Katie brings resolution in the end does not disappoint. I felt this was my favourite in the series, until i remembered, I felt that way about each one of them while I travelled with Katie's characters within their world...
October 26, 2021
I couldn’t put this down!
That was amazing! I kept checking the chapters wishing there were more to read! I did not want to put this book down—and I did not want it to end! Katie Cross knows how to keep you hooked and leave you wanting more!
This book was so exciting and fun! I loved how Dahlia had inner dialogue with herself—I do this all the time! I love how relatable this story is to real life and how both Dahlia and Bastian are finding themselves in different ways!
That was amazing! I kept checking the chapters wishing there were more to read! I did not want to put this book down—and I did not want it to end! Katie Cross knows how to keep you hooked and leave you wanting more!
This book was so exciting and fun! I loved how Dahlia had inner dialogue with herself—I do this all the time! I love how relatable this story is to real life and how both Dahlia and Bastian are finding themselves in different ways!
October 29, 2021
I always love diving into Katie's latest book as soon as I can, and they always engulf me completely. Smoke and Fire is no exception. I love her rich characters and her engaging storytelling. Bastian and Dahlia are both perfectly lovable characters and I really enjoyed their romance! I also love it when I learn something new while reading, and I definitely learned a lot about wildfires. Super cute novel! Can't wait for the next installment!
November 3, 2021
Bastian comes off quiet and tough, but he is one of the most loveable characters in the series! He and Dahlia are quite the pair and seem at first to be an unlikely match. I adore them. This book was hot, hot, hot! I love the behind the scenes of the life of this mysterious author, mixed with the underlying family tension and then you add a roaring forest fire into the mix to threaten this town we have all grown to love! Can't wait to read it again!
November 9, 2021
Smoke and fire is a hit out of the park for Katie Cross. Everything she described in this book between Bastian, Dahlia and Pineville keeps me wanting more. If you have never lived through a forest fire or have a spouse that fights it, this book is right up your alley. Everything Katie wrote about are the same feelings I had living through and evacuating from the Cameron Peak fire, with a husband fighting it. Katie kept me sane through it all.
January 11, 2022
It amazes me how even after 6+ books, every couple is a complete new story! This particular couple is one of my favs, all that giddiness that comes with the “new crush” took me back to younger years and made me remember those butterfly moments and all the uncertainty of not being able to read other peoples mind hahaha I love how the story unfolded, and how each character was so true to what life is like when you are young and trying to find your way… thank you Katie for another lovely story!
July 31, 2024
Another heart stopper!
I’m re-reading this series and couldn’t be more engaged with them. I’m falling in love all over again. Bastian and Dalhia are perfect in every imaginable way. Having a caring male figure, so tender with is disabled sister, and father with dementia is heart wrenchingly beautiful. Once again, Katie Cross has managed to interweave some timeless social issues into a deeply compelling romance. Thanks again!
I’m re-reading this series and couldn’t be more engaged with them. I’m falling in love all over again. Bastian and Dalhia are perfect in every imaginable way. Having a caring male figure, so tender with is disabled sister, and father with dementia is heart wrenchingly beautiful. Once again, Katie Cross has managed to interweave some timeless social issues into a deeply compelling romance. Thanks again!
October 23, 2021
Bastion is used to always take care o everything and everybody. As a wild land firefighter and his father and sister care, he has his hands full. But he is keeping a secret and he needs help. Can Dahlia, a perfect stranger, be the solution to his problems and the person to help him more than he ever dreamed of? A great love story.
October 26, 2021
Yet another adventurous romance from Katie Cross👏🏼
I love how Katie's books take you on adventures! This one is no different, yet not at all the same! It's a new story with familiar characters, whose lives are anything but perfect, but they're just trying to figure it out. Here's to yet another adventure felt and seemingly seen! Well done, Katie! 👏🏼
I love how Katie's books take you on adventures! This one is no different, yet not at all the same! It's a new story with familiar characters, whose lives are anything but perfect, but they're just trying to figure it out. Here's to yet another adventure felt and seemingly seen! Well done, Katie! 👏🏼
May 23, 2022
Breathtaking
I love Katie's books!!! I have read 7 in three weeks. Once you pick them up you cannot put them down. You feel the best and fire in this book it feels like you are living the adventure. It captivates you. There is too many words to express this wonderful series. Be prepared for sleepless nights once you dive into this book.
I love Katie's books!!! I have read 7 in three weeks. Once you pick them up you cannot put them down. You feel the best and fire in this book it feels like you are living the adventure. It captivates you. There is too many words to express this wonderful series. Be prepared for sleepless nights once you dive into this book.
December 17, 2024
omg loved bastian!!!
This is one of my faves. Getting to see into the mind of bash and his quiet reserved self. Allowed for so much more when he usually hides behind limited words and a laptop. Dahlia was his perfect match in every way!! Loved the story. You get the anticipation from the fires. And the crazy fans trying to figure out who Jess is. Great story!!
This is one of my faves. Getting to see into the mind of bash and his quiet reserved self. Allowed for so much more when he usually hides behind limited words and a laptop. Dahlia was his perfect match in every way!! Loved the story. You get the anticipation from the fires. And the crazy fans trying to figure out who Jess is. Great story!!
February 23, 2026
4.8/5
🚨TW: mentions of having a stalker, crazy fans, fire
🚨CW: mild curses
Review
Love these two. Dahlia loves to guess drinks of customers while Bastian is secretly a romance writer writing under the name Jess which Lizabeth and Dahlia is reading it. She is not a fan of romance books but Jess books made her love romance. And there is a reason why Bastian writes.
Lately, because Jess’ books are so popular that Bastian is swarmed with interviews and also everyone really wanted to find out who Jess really is but to him he wants to keep his identity as a secret and he doesn’t like to appear in front of others. So he approached Dahlia and asked her whether she could be Jess instead of taking the offer she told him that she can only be his assistant to answer his e-mails and social media.
Love that she send him videos updates about the e-mails that he received and also about Jess is having a stalker trying to find out Jess and it seemed that stalker find out that Jess is in this small town. Can’t spoil the story you will have to read to find out. And love Bastian cares for his sister and father and do whatever he can to be there for them.
Loving that they open up to each other and also encourage each other. And him saving lives as a fireman and also him taking care of his sister and father. They both care for each other and also love helping people.
🚨TW: mentions of having a stalker, crazy fans, fire
🚨CW: mild curses
Review
Love these two. Dahlia loves to guess drinks of customers while Bastian is secretly a romance writer writing under the name Jess which Lizabeth and Dahlia is reading it. She is not a fan of romance books but Jess books made her love romance. And there is a reason why Bastian writes.
Lately, because Jess’ books are so popular that Bastian is swarmed with interviews and also everyone really wanted to find out who Jess really is but to him he wants to keep his identity as a secret and he doesn’t like to appear in front of others. So he approached Dahlia and asked her whether she could be Jess instead of taking the offer she told him that she can only be his assistant to answer his e-mails and social media.
Love that she send him videos updates about the e-mails that he received and also about Jess is having a stalker trying to find out Jess and it seemed that stalker find out that Jess is in this small town. Can’t spoil the story you will have to read to find out. And love Bastian cares for his sister and father and do whatever he can to be there for them.
Loving that they open up to each other and also encourage each other. And him saving lives as a fireman and also him taking care of his sister and father. They both care for each other and also love helping people.
Read
November 7, 2021This is a fast read for those that want a romance with some adventure. I love following the characters in this series. And I have no worries if awkward sex scenes. Just a nice break and lovely story.
March 1, 2022
I have loved this series so much! I have two more to read (#2 & #8).
Bastion and Dahlia just might be my favorite couple so far.
So many wonderful things about this book!
Just read it! Read the whole series! Now :)
Bastion and Dahlia just might be my favorite couple so far.
So many wonderful things about this book!
Just read it! Read the whole series! Now :)
July 17, 2022
Fire Hot (but totally clean!)
This is a great series of sweet romances! This one was hot (because...fire...come on!) I loved the chemistry between Bastian and Dahlia. It had a crazy start...but lots of relationships start unconventionally! Love the HEA. Loved the book!
This is a great series of sweet romances! This one was hot (because...fire...come on!) I loved the chemistry between Bastian and Dahlia. It had a crazy start...but lots of relationships start unconventionally! Love the HEA. Loved the book!
October 26, 2021
I love the whole Coffee Shop Girl series and my favorite one is always the one I just finished! This is another winner.
August 5, 2022
Slow start that heated up. Bastion is a wildfire firefighter. A “hotshot.” Dahlia has ended up at The Frolicking Moose after a break up. He needs a shoulder to lean on. She has two shoulders.
January 17, 2023
Love this series.
The heart that all these books shout is wonderful. In the depth of the pandemic, I lost mine. I feel renewed. Thank you, Katie Cross.
The heart that all these books shout is wonderful. In the depth of the pandemic, I lost mine. I feel renewed. Thank you, Katie Cross.
October 24, 2023
Wow, this book was so good. My heart was racing. Sorry no spoilers
December 3, 2023
I just loved these characters and this book.
September 21, 2024
I didn’t enjoy this one as much as some of her other books. It was okay.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews